<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Blog Locomotive &#187; Autos</title>
	<atom:link href="http://bloglocomotive.com/category/autos/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://bloglocomotive.com</link>
	<description></description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:28:02 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.2</generator>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
			<item>
		<title>Making my Ride Tight</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/making-my-ride-tight.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/making-my-ride-tight.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:36:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=64</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I have a relatively old Honda and I love it very much that I am not willing to give it up even if I have a new car already.  With my bloody sweat, I got my Honda City 1997 from an old friend for a relatively great price.  It runs fine, serves its [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-65" style="margin: 5px;" title="car_ID" src="http://bloglocomotive.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/car_ID.jpg" alt="car_ID" width="219" height="77" align="left" />I have a relatively old Honda and I love it very much that I am not willing to give it up even if I have a new car already.  With my bloody sweat, I got my Honda City 1997 from an old friend for a relatively great price.  It runs fine, serves its purpose, and does not give me any headaches of overheating or any conk out.  The very first thing I’d like to do when I go back to my country is to make my car tight.  While in the US, I’m now collecting ideas and have started buying <a href="http://www.carid.com/honda-accessories/">Honda accessories</a> for my car.  I already have a list of things needed to be done to reupholster my old car – polyurethane metallic glossy paint, 16 inch rims, low profile tires, fiber hood, side skirts, spoilers, HID headlights, Xplod sound system, racing seats, Indiglo dash and many more.  The stuff that I bought so far which are hard to find in our country are the HID headlights, engine dress-up kit, the sound system and the air intake system.  My friends back in the Philippines are also asking me some favor to get them <a href="http://www.carid.com/ford-accessories/">Ford accessories</a> and <a href="http://www.carid.com/chevy-accessories/">Chevy accessories</a> for their toys.  I can’t wait to be back home and see my dream car done!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/making-my-ride-tight.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>TMW Off Road – My Choice for Performance Parts</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/tmw-off-road-%e2%80%93-my-choice-for-performance-parts.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/tmw-off-road-%e2%80%93-my-choice-for-performance-parts.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2009 17:23:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=54</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you a hardcore fanatic of off-road, all terrain vehicles like I am? My rapt fascination for these “toys for the big boys” is what inspired me to by an off-road all terrain vehicle dealer. It’s a very fulfilling and fun career as I get to work and trade with my “toys” everyday and get [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-55" style="margin: 5px;" title="tmw_offroad" src="http://bloglocomotive.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/tmw_offroad.gif" alt="tmw_offroad" width="343" height="76" align="right" />Are you a hardcore fanatic of off-road, all terrain vehicles like I am? My rapt fascination for these “toys for the big boys” is what inspired me to by an off-road all terrain vehicle dealer. It’s a very fulfilling and fun career as I get to work and trade with my “toys” everyday and get to meet other road enthusiasts like me, who get to share tips and experiences, and adventures on and off the road.</p>
<p>One thing I find difficult though is finding the best supplier for off-road vehicle accessories and performance<br />
parts. As any self respecting off-road vehicle enthusiast will tell you, your run of the mill accessories and spare parts that may be good for an ordinary car will simply will not be acceptable for an off road vehicle.</p>
<p>To ensure that one gets maximum performance for his or her <a href="http://www.tmwoffroad.com">POLARIS RZR</a>, for example, there are only specific accessories that will be compatible, like wheel spacers, side panels, and bumpers.</p>
<p>The same situation also applies for the <a href="http://www.tmwoffroad.com">YAMAHA RHINO</a>, which needs special parts like bucket seats, safety harnesses, and tie rod ends. And let’s not forget my personal favorite, the <a href="http://www.tmwoffroad.com"> KAWASAKI TERYX</a>. Your off road experience on this baby would not be complete without racing shocks!</p>
<p>Luckily for me, I’ve found the best performance parts supplier in TmwOffRoad.com. I’ve found that these guys understand my need for the best quality parts for all kinds of off road vehicles.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/tmw-off-road-%e2%80%93-my-choice-for-performance-parts.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Easy Way to Donate Your Car to Charity</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/easy-way-to-donate-your-car-to-charity.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/easy-way-to-donate-your-car-to-charity.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 06:24:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Car Donations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Donate A House or Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[donate car]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=17</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Donations are a great way to get to help others as well as yourself by getting tax deductions as well as getting that feeling that you are able to do something good in the world. That is why large companies do this all the time, they get to save millions in taxes as well as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Donations are a great way to get to help others as well as yourself by getting tax deductions as well as getting that feeling that you are able to do something good in the world. That is why large companies do this all the time, they get to save millions in taxes as well as great marketing mileage when people notice that they are able to give back to society.</p>
<p>One great way that you can donate without necessarily putting a pinch on your finances is to donate your car. Old cars are a burden to repair or sell and you get nothing in terms of value, this <a href="http://www.donatecar.info/donate-car.htm">donate car</a><br />
program is a great way for you to avoid all the hassles of getting rid of that white elephant while helping out those in need through the various charity organizations that benefit from all these donations. This is the reason why <a href="http://www.donatecar.info">Car Donations</a> are getting popular all over the country.</p>
<p>So where can you find such programs and what do you need to do to take advantage of this opportunity? They are available online such as the site DonateCar(dot)info which is a fast and convenient way for you to get all the information you need as well as sign up for the program. All it takes is to fill out an easy online form and they will take care of the rest.</p>
<p>Besides car donations, you can also donate other assets as well such as property or houses. In the same way that old cars can be a bind, unused houses and properties only give you a headache when it&#8217;s time to clean the books. You find you are paying taxes for something which you actually do not need and almost never get to use anyway. When you <a href="http://www.donatecar.info/real-estate-property-donations-donate-house-condo-land.htm">Donate A House or Property</a>, you are also entitled to the same tax benefits and hassle-free service that you can get from donating your car. Then you finally stop paying all those taxes and begin to feel better come the tax season.</p>
<p>There are a lot of great ways to give to charity, but to be able to give to charity and get something for yourself in the process is one way that is sure to make you feel doubly better that you can make a difference.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/easy-way-to-donate-your-car-to-charity.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Porsche vs Ferrari</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/porsche-vs-ferrari.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/porsche-vs-ferrari.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 10 May 2008 17:00:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ferrari]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[porsche]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=7</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Porsche and Ferrari are German and Italian sides of the same
coin, interpretations of the sports car idea. Both founded by a
dominant patriarch, both honed in racing, both more than 50
years old, both with engineering and styling integrity. Whether on
the track of Le Mains or on the streets, the two have always been
put head-to-head and compared. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Porsche and Ferrari are German and Italian sides of the same<br />
coin, interpretations of the sports car idea. Both founded by a<br />
dominant patriarch, both honed in racing, both more than 50<br />
years old, both with engineering and styling integrity. Whether on<br />
the track of Le Mains or on the streets, the two have always been<br />
put head-to-head and compared. Even the most naive motorist<br />
associates these two names with both performance and style.<br />
<span id="more-7"></span><br />
We’ve decided to compare the methodical Porsche 911 Carrera<br />
4S and the passionate Ferrari F430 because both of them astonish<br />
with their performance while attempting to maintain a reasonable<br />
amount of practicality but do not pretend to be anything other than<br />
sports cars.</p>
<p>A modern sports car should feature these characteristics: it should be<br />
started easily, maneuvered around town, blasted on a couple of<br />
country roads, it looks and performs the part on a racetrack but at the<br />
same time it is very safe.</p>
<p>The easier way to separate the two cars is by measuring figures since<br />
both of them have mastered the modern sports car requirements and<br />
basically there’s no other way to choose between these two phenomenal<br />
cars.</p>
<p>What initially impresses is Ferrari&#8217;s lightning fast 4-second 0-100km/h<br />
acceleration and thrilling exhaust tone. As the occupants are pinned to<br />
the seats, the new generation 4.3-litre V8 pushes out 368 snarling<br />
kilowatts. Porsche’s acceleration also offers that kick in the pants a<br />
super car should deliver, although it is 0.8 seconds slower at the 100 km/k<br />
mark.</p>
<p>With such acceleration performance, it comes natural for both cars to<br />
excel in the braking department. The two cars offer optional ceramic<br />
discs for impressive stopping.</p>
<p>Porsche’s engine gets the upper hand as it is more refined and on<br />
the economy rank leaps ahead Ferrari with a 11.8 liters per 100 km<br />
as opposed to 18.3 liters. Both cars deliver the power through impressive<br />
6-speed gearboxes and offer top rate handling performance.</p>
<p>Both F430 and Carrera4S offer great interior comfort and even if the<br />
space is limited, the occupants don&#8217;t feel claustrophobic and flustered.<br />
Although an impressive mix of suede, carbon fiber and aluminum abound<br />
in the Ferrari, the Italians stand no chance when it comes to the high finish<br />
level attained by the Germans.</p>
<p>Speed and silence are key elements for any super car.  The look and<br />
appearance is the biggest draw card. The Carrera 4S is a typical Porsche,<br />
despite the new proportions. It is a great looking car, like any other 911 but<br />
somehow the styling no longer creates the jaw dropping reaction that the<br />
Ferrari does. Indeed, traditionalists may say that Porsche pays homage to<br />
its roots, but the truth is that Ferrari F430 simply draws the attention.</p>
<p>However, even if Ferrari F430 takes your breath away with its appearance,<br />
the super car title goes to the Porsche Carrera 4S with a more complete all<br />
round package.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/porsche-vs-ferrari.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Car Loan Essentials</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/car-loan-essentials.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/car-loan-essentials.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 May 2008 17:29:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car loan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=12</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Acquiring a car loan is, for a number of people, a major investment and as such should be carefully studied to assure you get the best car loan and make sure you don’t get an auto loan scam.
In getting a car loan, there are lots of things that you need to consider. These things are [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Acquiring a car loan is, for a number of people, a major investment and as such should be carefully studied to assure you get the best car loan and make sure you don’t get an auto loan scam.</p>
<p>In getting a car loan, there are lots of things that you need to consider. These things are significant in the sense that they are guide points to make your auto loan a worry-free one.<br />
<span id="more-12"></span><br />
Let’s start with the APR or the annual percentage rate. The law makes it mandatory that all companies engaging in car loan or car financing business to disclose all things included in the APR. APR is basically the group of fees and expenses paid annually. The APR is necessary when you wish to acquire a car loan. Essentially, this is the most important thing that you need to consider in terms of comparing one auto loan from another since it involves all the fees relative to the acquisition of an auto loan.</p>
<p>Next, at the time of car purchase, you need to pay a downpayment which is a sum of money you initially pay a car dealer upon securing a car loan. You have to make sure that your downpayment is credited in terms of how much sum of money you pay per amortization.</p>
<p>Next thing is the interest rate. Though not too much important as the APR is with reference to the buyer, you should also give due consideration on the interest rate of the loan. The interest is the percentage of the car loan that determines how much gain a company makes out of the transaction.</p>
<p>The loan term on the other hand is the length of the car loan.</p>
<p>The longer the loan term is the smaller the monthly amortization but this does not mean you should get a long loan term because when you add them all up, you actually lose much money in a longer loan term as when you get a shorter one. The key is to get the least APR. Keep that in mind.</p>
<p>The principal is actually the base of the car loan without any add-ons in it. This is the actual sales price of the car.</p>
<p>These are the major factors that you need to bear in mind when you decide to get a car loan. Giving them closer attention will enable you to become more educated in terms of getting things in proper perspective.</p>
<p>Although car loan companies are in general reputable, there is increasing number of car loan scams. These loan scams promise you heaven and earth but the moment you give your trust to them that’s the start of your nightmare.</p>
<p>They can really give you bunch of headaches and can get your money like winds blowing the sand in your hand. So, it is better to study offers of small or big companies when you plan to get a car loan. Give the company’s reputation due attention so that you will have a feel if what it offers is real or real scam.</p>
<p>It’s always advisable to do your own research about the standing of car loan companies. You just don’t have to rely on their sales talks because what they would tell you are all good for their own benefits.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/car-loan-essentials.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How To Secure Cheap Car Insurance</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/how-to-secure-cheap-car-insurance.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/how-to-secure-cheap-car-insurance.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 May 2008 17:27:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car insurance]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=11</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There is definitely a need to have a new car insurance if you have just acquired a new vehicle. A car insurance is somehow more of a protection if ever the vehicle would be involved in several troubles in the future.

At the same time, you also should strive to find and secure a cheap car [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There is definitely a need to have a new car insurance if you have just acquired a new vehicle. A car insurance is somehow more of a protection if ever the vehicle would be involved in several troubles in the future.<br />
<span id="more-11"></span><br />
At the same time, you also should strive to find and secure a cheap car insurance policy. As you all know, paying premiums for new auto insurance policies is the usual source of problems regarding the car insurance industry nowadays. Many policy holders are finding it hard to cover for the costs of the new auto insurance they subscribe to.</p>
<p>It has always been a challenge to find and secure a cheap car insurance nowadays. The market is saturated with numerous firms providing financial protection, but alas, not too many are offering comprehensive programs at very reasonable costs.</p>
<p>However, experts give hope to car buyers and policy seekers by assuring that given proper procedure and initiatives, the effort to secure cheap car insurance is not impossible.</p>
<p>Here are some of the most practical tips any car buyer could observe.</p>
<p>1.You could secure a cheap car insurance by getting into a multi-policy with your current provider. For sure, you have a coverage for your health, your home or your life policy.</p>
<p>In your quest to find and buy cheap car insurance, always remember that you could realize a great and significant amount of discounts if you would buy a new policy from the same provider that provides you with your other policies.</p>
<p>It would be more advisable if you would inquire about any new car insurance offerings from your trusted firm as soon as possible.</p>
<p>2. Do a comparison shopping when finding for a cheap car insurance. As mentioned, there are numerous companies and policies available in the market.</p>
<p>By getting quotes from four or more policy providers, you could easily compare prices and premiums and at the same time determine which program offers the most reasonable, practical and comprehensive coverage according to your needs.</p>
<p>3. To be able to secure cheap car insurance in the future, it would be advisable if you would maintain a clean and good driving history. Do not speed drive or do any traffic or driving violation.</p>
<p>If you do, be aware that all your over speeding records are accumulated and compiled are being held as a reference to look at when evaluating your application for a cheap car insurance policy.</p>
<p>4. Solicit and consider recommendations and suggestions from peers and experts. You can always ask friends and other people who are more familiar to such services about any recommendations regarding the search and purchase of cheap car insurance.</p>
<p>5. As you finally buy a new policy, always intend to keep your responsibility. Aim to finalize and finish the buying transaction for the cheap auto insurance program. As always, as you buy a policy for your new car, be vigilant and extra careful in your choices and decisions.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/how-to-secure-cheap-car-insurance.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Information About Used Car Loans</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/information-about-used-car-loans.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/information-about-used-car-loans.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 03 May 2008 17:25:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Loans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car loan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=10</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Getting a used car loan is an option if you don&#8217;t have the funds required to buy a new car. It is an easier option and way to realize your dream of having your own vehicle. The first step is to find out about lending options whether it is at a financing company or through [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Getting a used car loan is an option if you don&#8217;t have the funds required to buy a new car. It is an easier option and way to realize your dream of having your own vehicle. The first step is to find out about lending options whether it is at a financing company or through online services to find affordable finance options. There are a few steps that you need to go through which include finding out the exact price of the vehicle, estimating the amount required and borrowing the amount that you are easily able to pay back in installments.<br />
<span id="more-10"></span><br />
The need for a used car loan is specifically suited for individuals with bad credit and are deliberately formatted to favor such holders. If you have bad credit due to defaults, arrears, bankruptcy or a delinquent credit history you can still get the car that you need or desire. The options that are available to people with good credit are now also available to bad credit holders, whether it be secured or unsecured based on personal choice and ability.</p>
<p>The market for used car loan for bad credit holders has definitely gotten easier but you have to be very careful and make sure you arm yourself with a lot of research. Interest rates tend to be higher and that can affect the monthly repayments. Before making any decisions, applicants should put in a little bit of an effort and do some research and arm themselves with knowledge before making any further decisions. Applicants should compare quotes of used car loans that are offered by various lenders.</p>
<p>There are many available sources for research that you can utilize. If the method of applying for a loan seems lengthy or too complex, you can take advantage of brokers that do almost 90% of the work for you. Also customer call centers of the various lenders are just a phone call away. If you have bad credit or just can&#8217;t afford a new car, consider the option of a used car auto loan.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/information-about-used-car-loans.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>What First Time Car Owners Must Remember</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/what-first-time-car-owners-must-remember.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/what-first-time-car-owners-must-remember.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 May 2008 17:23:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[car]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=9</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The days when you had no other option but to hire an airport limo service company when you had to fetch or drive somebody to the airport are finally over—you are now a proud owner of a beautiful piece of automotive engineering miracle. Before you start shifting gears and channeling your inner Michael Schumacher however, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The days when you had no other option but to hire an airport limo service company when you had to fetch or drive somebody to the airport are finally over—you are now a proud owner of a beautiful piece of automotive engineering miracle. Before you start shifting gears and channeling your inner Michael Schumacher however, remember that there are a variety of things&#8211;from automotive diagnostics to the real importance of getting car insurance&#8211; you must know and remember.<br />
<span id="more-9"></span><br />
First, always, always get car insurance. Not only is this a responsible and smart thing to do, in some countries, it is the lawful thing to do too as well. In the United States for example, failure to purchase an insurance policy for your car can lead to fines, license suspension and, in some cases, jail time. Now how are you supposed to enjoy being king of the road if you’re held up inside jail?</p>
<p>Remember too that when it comes to driving, safety always comes first. As a first time car owner, it is understandable that you would want to floor the pedal every chance you get. But remember that when you drive recklessly, you don’t just put yourself in danger, you risk the lives of the other people on the road with you too. So be careful on the road and try to suppress the urge to see if your Prius can roar like a Formula One car (just for the record, it can’t).</p>
<p>Also, regularly check your car’s safety devices and make sure they’re always working. Are your seat belts ok? Are the air bags functioning? And most especially, are your brakes working properly? Does your car slow down or stop the moment you step on the break pedals? If not, then better bring your vehicle to the shop for auto brake repair services now.</p>
<p>Another important thing you need to remember is that when it comes to cars, you must treat everything like a major problem. Things you shrug off and dismiss as “minor inconveniences” could snowball and cause major headaches for you. When you think your car is not running as smoothly as it did before or when a gallon of gas is now only good for a couple of miles, take it for an tune up before your engine gets any worse. A tune up (which can includes the adjusting the carburetor, replacing the air filter and inspecting the ignition system) will improve your car’s performance and efficiency.</p>
<p>When you are experiencing problems with your car’s performance but you or your mechanic is not sure what exactly is wrong, then better take your car to an automotive diagnostics center and let their specialists run tests on your vehicle and determine what is or isn’t wrong with it. This would give you more reliable and accurate information about your car and let you avoid paying for costly repairs and parts replacements that would later prove to be unnecessary and useless.</p>
<p>Owning your very first car comes with a tremendous feeling of pride, exhilaration and freedom. But it also comes with a trunk full of duties and responsibilities too.</p>
<p>Visit this site <span class="hft-urls">http://www.ridesmartsedan.com</span> for more information about Phoenix airport transportation and Phoenix airport limo services.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/what-first-time-car-owners-must-remember.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>A car bore’s guide to a used Ford Mondeo</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/a-car-bore%e2%80%99s-guide-to-a-used-ford-mondeo.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/a-car-bore%e2%80%99s-guide-to-a-used-ford-mondeo.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 May 2008 17:17:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ford Mondeo]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=8</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Go to any car dealership and you can be certain you’ll come across a used Ford Mondeo &#8211; it is a fact as inevitable as the world being round or water being wet. Supplies of Ford cars are plentiful &#8211; used Ford especially so &#8211; with competitive pricing and popular styling just two features of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Go to any car dealership and you can be certain you’ll come across a used Ford Mondeo &#8211; it is a fact as inevitable as the world being round or water being wet. Supplies of Ford cars are plentiful &#8211; used Ford especially so &#8211; with competitive pricing and popular styling just two features of a car company making arguably the best cars it ever has done.<br />
<span id="more-8"></span><br />
There are two histories the used Ford Mondeo sitting on the forecourt could have in its logbook. The first history would reveal a mid-thirtysomething salesman with many motorway journeys under his belt (and many corporate lunches too no doubt). His suit jacket having been lovingly hung up in the back as it accompanied him on his travels and sales pitter patter. The second life the car could’ve had would be the all purpose, all conquering family pet. Muddy football boots, furniture from Ikea and mountains of glitter from a night out would all have come into contact with the Mondeo.</p>
<p>Whether the car comes with life history 1 or history 2, it doesn’t matter. Either way the car would’ve faithfully carried out it’s duties and has only appeared on the forecourt because either: a) salesman didn’t sell enough and was sacked, b) salesman sold lots and was given a new Mondeo, c) family had another child and bought a people carrier. A good buy on all accounts then, but before you decide on which colour to go for, let me fill you in on the birth of the Mondeo and how it made Ford’s accountants’ life expectancies rise dramatically.</p>
<p>Replacing an institution is tough. Whether you’re singing Freddie Mercury’s parts for Queen, acting James Bond in the latest film, or playing rugby instead of an injured Johnny Wilkinson for England, you’ll be more closely scrutinised than the original. And so was the case with the Mondeo. Entering the showrooms in 1993, the new car replaced the much-loved granddaddy, the Ford Sierra. Despite its global market, the European arm of Ford was haemorrhaging money and had developed the unenviable reputation of making cars the accountants wanted. This resulted in poorly built vehicles that were as interesting to look at as a Monet in a cardboard box.</p>
<p>Things started promisingly (not for the accountants mind) as the Mondeo shared very little in the way of parts or design with its appalling 90’s predecessors the Escort and Orion &#8211; resulting in high development costs. Top pub quiz fact: it was the first car to have a drivers’ airbag across the entire range. This forward thinking from Ford meant it topped many safety test standings and appealed to companies not wishing to give their staff death traps and of course families. Sales rocketed and it was named European Car of the Year in 1994.</p>
<p>One criticism was that the styling was still more cardboard box than Monet. A facelift in 1996 addressed this to such a degree, that only the doors and roof remained the same as the Mk I model. The corporate Ford oval was incorporated into the front grill giving the car a more curvy and playful look. Still no Monet but the palette was starting to take shape. The facelift was as well-received as Jackie Collins’ and this helped boost sales further although the additional outlay from Ford did mean specification levels dropped, meaning wheel trims were back and alloy wheels were consigned to the optional extras order form.</p>
<p>Over the next four years, with Ford’s European fortunes taking a drastic u-turn for the better and as the new space-edge Ka and Focus models were being launched, the Mondeo was suddenly in need of another shot of botox. As the new millennium dawned, so did the Mk III Mondeo – the car that more than likely stands before you at the used Ford dealership. Although it was in the same design club as the Ka and Focus, it wasn’t considered part of the ‘New Edge’ Ford design and therefore sat in the corner of the club looking restrained. A more expensive, Volkswagen Passat inspired interior is the stand-out feature, which looks expensive because it is.</p>
<p>Combined with further safety enhancements including the excitingly titled ‘Intelligent Protection System’ (IPS) which was a system that basically decided for you which life-saving features to use in the event of a crash. It was the most popular large family car for its entire 2000 – 2007 life-cycle. It is too early to comment on the latest Mk IV model, although it did find its way into the latest Bond film ‘Casino Royale’ for a brief scene, before being swiftly replaced by Bond’s orginal Aston Martin DB5 (what did I say about following an institution?)</p>
<p>To summarise, the Mondeo may be the most popular vehicle of its class and therefore buying one will result in you being as unique as a Manchester United supporter, but it has sold in it’s droves for a mutlitude of good reasons. The choice as they say, is yours.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/a-car-bore%e2%80%99s-guide-to-a-used-ford-mondeo.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Diesel-Powered Daily Drivers are on the Rise</title>
		<link>http://bloglocomotive.com/diesel-powered-daily-drivers-are-on-the-rise.html</link>
		<comments>http://bloglocomotive.com/diesel-powered-daily-drivers-are-on-the-rise.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Apr 2008 02:53:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Autos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Economy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diesel-Powered Daily Drivers are on the Rise]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://bloglocomotive.com/?p=3</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Diesel power is popular all over the world, but not for the same reasons. In America, diesel power is traditionally used to power commercial and industrial vehicles and equipment. In Europe, it is used for the same purposes, and it is popular for use in regular vehicles as well. Why is that? Europe has much [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Diesel power is popular all over the world, but not for the same reasons. In America, diesel power is traditionally used to power commercial and industrial vehicles and equipment. In Europe, it is used for the same purposes, and it is popular for use in regular vehicles as well. Why is that? Europe has much higher fuel prices than America does, and diesel is much more economical than gasoline overall. While gasoline may cost less per gallon – depending on the season, due to heating costs – diesel can deliver more miles per gallon, effectively reducing the operating costs of a vehicle. For this reason, more diesel cars were sold in Europe than gasoline cars, according to a eurocarprice.com survey. <span id="more-3"></span></p>
<p>During the &#8217;70s gas shortage, diesel tried to make a place for itself in the American car market, but that failed, due to the poor engineering of the American car manufacturers’ attempt to rapidly develop and produce these cars. The cars produced were loud, expensive to maintain, produced a foul smelling exhaust, and were less reliable than traditional gasoline-powered automobiles. This created a stigma that has affected the reputation of diesel-powered automobiles, until now. J.D. Power and Associates has predicted that the number of cars powered by diesel will triple on America’s roads in the next ten years.</p>
<p>Diesel is much cleaner now than it was 30 years ago as well, not only in terms of exhaust, but in other aspects, too. Federal requirements dictate that diesel engines must meet standards that limit the odor, noise, and emissions significantly. They also get up to 40 percent better fuel economy than gasoline engines and produce enough power to satisfy most needs of the American speed demon.</p>
<p>One way diesel has become a much cleaner fuel is through the development of ULSD (Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel.) ULSD eliminates 97 percent of sulfur, which is a major cause of pollution. There are still a few states that do not allow the sale of diesel-powered passenger vehicles. Manufacturers are developing ways to use ULSD to meet requirements in all 50 states.</p>
<p>Along with the new ULSD, there are other technologies that can help reduce the emissions of diesel. Daimler Chrysler and GM both are developing engines that inject a substance into the combustion chamber during ignition that help the diesel burn more clean. A new catalytic converter is being introduced by Honda that greatly reduces the levels of nitrogen oxide that leaves the exhaust system.</p>
<p>More Advantages of Diesel-Powered Engines</p>
<p>Because larger pickups, agricultural equipment, commercial transportation vehicles, and industrial equipment do not have the same emission requirements as passenger vehicles, the people and industries that use these types of vehicles or equipment rely on diesel power. This is because the engines produce more power and last longer, due to less wear and tear and a lower frequency of maintenance intervals.</p>
<p>Diesels have a longer maintenance interval because they don’t have to work as hard as gasoline-powered engines. Diesels operate at less than 50 percent of the rpm&#8217;s that a gasoline engine operates at. This is because a diesel engine produces most of its power; whereas a gasoline engine idles. A gasoline engine’s peak performance averages at about 4,200 rpm&#8217;s; whereas a diesel engine’s peak is between 1,500 and 2,000 rpm&#8217;s. This result is less wear and tear per hour or mile. Diesels also produce much greater torque than a gasoline engine does, enabling the use of lower gear ratios, resulting in much better fuel economy. This is all because of the difference in how the engines utilize their fuel.</p>
<p>Gasoline engines inject both air and fuel into the combustion chamber at the same time. The cylinder then compresses this mixture to 8:1 – 11:1 ratio, where the mixture is then ignited by a spark generated by a spark plug. That means that it is taking the amount of air and fuel in the cylinder and compressing it, so that it is compressed up to 1/11th of the original volume. Diesel, on the other hand, compresses pure air up to 25:1 ratio or higher. It then injects the fuel into the chamber, which is super heated, due to the high compressions, and immediately ignited. Diesel fuel also contains a higher energy density, about 147,000 BTU, than gasoline’s 125,000 BTU. BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. Because of the higher compression ratios and higher energy density, when the diesel ignites, it generates more than double the cranking power than the gasoline engine does.</p>
<p>Energy supplies are getting more and more expensive every day. Since this concern is growing, so are the technology advancements for diesel-powered passenger cars. As a matter of fact, in 2006, the Audi R10 took first place in the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race. Not only did it win, but it was the quietest, cleanest, most efficient, and obviously fastest car on the track. This is just a preview of what is to come in the future of diesel-powered vehicles.</p>
<p>Disadvantages of Diesel</p>
<p>All of the great news you have read about diesel so far does come with a few disadvantages as well. Diesel fuel has to be very clean for it to burn properly. Contaminants like dirt and especially water will significantly reduce performance and cause your exhaust emissions to increase.</p>
<p>Extremely cold temperatures also cause the diesel to “gel up,” reducing the fuel system’s efficiency, and as a result, the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber. Also, since diesel is ignited by the heat of compressed gases, cold temperatures may also inhibit the ignition of the fuel during startups.</p>
<p>Also, as mentioned above, diesel-powered vehicles cost more to maintain. Finding a certified technician is also more difficult, due to the lack of demand. So even though a diesel engine is built to last longer under more extreme conditions, when they do need maintenance, it is not as easy of a fix as a gasoline-powered vehicle.</p>
<p>Looking at Diesel From a Lube Point of View.</p>
<p>A lube shop needs to realize the opportunity created by the growing popularity of diesel power. As mentioned earlier, finding qualified diesel technicians is no easy feat; and by targeting diesel customers, they can greatly increase profit margins, because of the larger oil capacities and filters.</p>
<p>Using synthetic oils in a diesel engine will also improve the performance and life of the engine. These oils usually contain detergents that help combat excess soot and dirty emissions created by the engine. These oils also help the engine operate more efficiently at higher temperatures, while reducing wear and tear at the same time. Synthetics also improve the engine&#8217;s cold temperature operation as well, because of the lower pour points that synthetics possess.</p>
<p>Diesel-powered vehicles also have a wide array of fuel additives that can help improve their performance, especially under extreme conditions. Besides additives that combat dirt, water, and cold temperatures, there are also additives that boost the cetane rating of the fuel. Researching the different manufacturers’ products can help you decide which one is best for the environment a particular vehicle operates in.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://bloglocomotive.com/diesel-powered-daily-drivers-are-on-the-rise.html/feed</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
