5 Reasons To Invest In A Car Repair Manual

Car repair manuals on digital media are a worthwhile asset to both owners of existing cars and prospective buyers of used vehicles. Even if you never plan to turn a wrench on your American-made vehicle yourself, acquiring and keeping the repair manual specific to your model offers several advantages during ownership:

1) You're a do-it-yourselfer and wish to perform some repairs yourself. This needn't include major engine overhauls or extensive bodywork - even simple routine maintenance tasks have a right way and a wrong way to get the job done. Following the manufacturer's recommended procedure in a car repair manual can make the process easier and ensure a satisfactory result. Repair manuals also include diagrams, exploded views and up-close photography documenting the recommended procedure of a particular repair. Worth at least a thousand words during a complex task, diagrams and photos provide the DIY mechanic visual orientation to each step and illustrate the tools and techniques required.

2) You want to diagnose a mechanical problem yourself before taking it to a garage or professional mechanic for the actual work. Car repair manuals provide troubleshooting procedures and flow charts that list particular symptoms and offer potential causes and repairs. These procedures aid in isolating a malfunction to a particular component or system in the vehicle. This prepares the owner with advance knowledge of what he may encounter when the car is taken to the garage. Also, troubleshooting procedures familiarize the owner of the vehicle with technical terms or jargon his mechanic may use in explaining the malfunction. Clear communication between owner and mechanic is fostered and misunderstandings are minimized.

3) You wish to double-check a mechanic's repair estimate. Repair manuals offer a written version of manufacturer-recommended repair procedures and are helpful in determining whether a mechanic or garage is proposing a repair which varies significantly from the accepted procedure. If the manual describes a standard water pump replacement procedure without removal of the radiator, for example, yet the mechanic states that radiator removal is necessary, the vehicle owner may wish to obtain a second opinion to save potentially unnecessary labor costs. Conversely, consulting the repair manual can also provide reassurance that the mechanic is not cutting corners and omitting important steps to save time.

4) You need a single reference source for a wide range of vital statistics relating to your specific vehicle. Specifications, fluid capacities, weights and other facts and figures pertinent to vehicle ownership are typically listed in car repair manuals. Details such as recommended lubricants and tire pressure, replacement bulbs and service intervals are also included. Vehicle ownership requires access to accurate facts and figures which may not be available elsewhere, particularly if the vehicle is several years old.

5) You want to sell the vehicle and obtain maximum resale value. Providing the appropriate car repair manual on CD for a vehicle you are selling can be an important sales point. Prospective buyers are often interested in performing initial maintenance and repairs themselves and/or just becoming educated about the mechanics and design of their vehicle. If the vehicle you are selling has some existing mechanical issues that require repair, having the car repair manual available to clarify to prospective buyers what issues need to be addressed can ease buyer concerns and enhance the value of a used vehicle.

Mitch Gavillion is a car enthusiast who highly recommends a car repair manual for classic cars.

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Three Reasons to Buy a Used Nissan!

Buying a used vehicle can be daunting to say the least. Can you trust the dealership or previous owner you're buying it from? Will you get value for money? Is there something you're not being told? The list of questions can go on forever. However, if you buy smart, owning a pre-owned vehicle could just be your best decision yet, especially if you buy a used Nissan. Here's why...

1. Nissan's Valid Value Programme

The only way to ensure potential buyers of a top quality used product is to give them a guarantee that it adheres to stringent criteria. It's with this thinking in mind that Nissan designed its Valid Value Programme. Only vehicles that are less than 3 years old, have less than a 100 000km on the odometer and have a full service history can be considered for the programme. These select vehicles each have to undergo a 101-point quality check and be verified not to have been stolen or have financial or legal claims against it. Nissan furthermore offers a 20-day exchange policy and free safety checks for as long as you own the vehicle with roadside assistance and a 2-year warranty as optional extras.

2. A Proud Nissan Heritage

The Japanese automaker's reputation as a top quality brand alone is good enough reason to consider buying a used Nissan. With over 5 decades of presence in our country, it has earned a loyal following. Just the number of Nissan vehicles seen on our roads daily speaks volumes of the brand's longevity and popularity. Plus, many Nissan vehicles are manufactured locally, which makes parts readily available unlike some European competitors that could leave you stranded for weeks waiting on imported components. Nissan also boasts a countrywide dealership network assuring owners of exceptional support wherever their travels may take them.

3. A Comprehensive Product Line

There's undoubtedly a used Nissan out there that will see to every possible individual want or need - from the modern hatch and family sedan to the workhorse pick-up, off-roader 4x4 and even a sports car or two. Depending on budget and requirements buyers can take their pick from older and newer models that include popular ranges such as the Micra, Livina, Qashqai, X-Trail, Navara, Patrol and powerful range of pick-ups such as the NP200 which has followed on the heritage of the legendary little Datsun bakkie and bigger brother NP300. Pick one with the Valid Value stamp of approval and you're guaranteed of a clever buy.

The author is an experienced automobile engineer and has worked with manufacturers across the globe. The author occasionally writes Nissan Blog Posts on motoring topics that include reviews of used Nissan Micra's, X-Trail's, GT-R's, Pathfinder's and the Qashqai's.

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Ten Reasons a 20 Year Old Truck Is More Efficient Than a Prius

Have you ever wondered if you should get rid of your old truck for something smaller and more efficient? Chances are you usually only think about this when you are pumping gas into your truck. Here are ten reasons why you are better off than trading it in for a little gas sipper. If you don't have a truck, then see below what you are missing out on.

1. No car payment.

That fifty miles per gallon comes with a surcharge of 22,000 dollars for a new Prius. Thanks to their cult-like following used vehicles are commanding nearly the same prices. A 20 year old pickup really, really should be paid off by now. A truck getting 15 mpg will cost 4200 dollars in gas a year; chewing tobacco and cowboy hat are optional.

The Prius uses 1400 dollars worth of gas, and makes a typical monthly payment of 400 for 5 years. (22k + tax + interest / 60 months) My math is terrible and I did not calculate APR, but instead just tacked on interest based on initial loan value, but anyway I digress. Four hundred a month plus gas puts the pick-up cleanly ahead to the tune of 166 dollars a month.

2. Maintenance is cheaper.

I know some of you out there might already be getting defensive and saying that my math will never work because at some point the Prius will be paid off. The current economy has changed things slightly but in my experiences as a mechanic, once the car is out of warranty most drivers will run to the dealer to trade in a vehicle before paying costly repairs. But even if the Prius was paid off, the cost of batteries and labor to repair the vehicle is substantially higher than the truck.

The 20 year old parts are plentiful at the local auto parts store, and are typically much cheaper. A new engine: 600 dollars, new transmission: 400 dollars: differential: 300 dollars. Take care of the engine with proper maintenance and get 200k miles. Replace the transmission every 100k or so, sooner if required. The rear end is good for 400k. The rest of the truck consists of parts that cost less than 100 dollars each.

3. Trucks last forever

Toyota likes to claim that its cars last forever. How many mid 70's Toyotas are running around? How many mid 70's Hondas? How many mid 70's pickups are still running around and being used daily?

4. Insurance is cheaper

An old truck is paid off and the driver is not required to pay for full coverage. Full coverage would not matter anyhow, as any claim whatsoever would likely total the vehicle. For full coverage on the Prius I estimate the figure approximately 400 every 6 months. The truck's cost I will roughly estimate at 280 or less.

5. No deliver fees. Ever.

As a proud owner of a truck you will not need to pay for delivery of furniture, or lumber, or anything really. A truck can tow a boat, help the cute neighbor move, and haul rocks and dirt. The Prius can fold down the back seat. A truck can carry a Prius.

6. Your kid can fix your truck

A degree in engineering is not required to fix it yourself. A 20 year old vehicle was made in simpler times. Fixing a twenty year old truck is much easier than fixing anything on a Prius. You can fit the trucks motor, plus two small four cylinder engines under the cavernous hood to keep your V8 company. Even if you don't fix your vehicles yourself, repairs are faster, and cheaper. See number two for parts.

7. Trucks look great

I can appreciate that not everyone loves the look of a truck. I usually don't consider those people normal, but that isn't relevant at this point. This is America and people can buy whatever they want. But reason number seven is because the truck has a timeless classic design. The Prius has a timeless interrupted design. Does it look pinched off to anyone else?

8. Traffic

Traffic is easier to navigate with a truck. Sure in the city the Prius will find parking spots easier, and is more maneuverable around tight spots. But the age old rule of bigger is better definitely works with a truck. The added benefit of an old truck is that 20 years worth of rust and dents lend a "I do not have insurance" appearance to the vehicle, thereby causing the smaller vehicles to yield.

9. No Depreciation

A 20 year old truck will never be upside down. It will not depreciate. A 1975 Chevrolet bought today for 2000 dollars will be worth 2000 dollars when you sell it. A Prius also has good resale value due to the cult-like following, but a Prius will still suffer depreciation at some point.

10. Camping

Camping is not only possible in a truck, but there is an entire industry built around the notion. Load up the truck with firewood, beer chest, lawn chairs, spare change of clothes, and some food and meet your buddy at the lake. The same buddy that drove alone in his Prius without wood, lawn chairs, or food, or beer.

*Bonus*

In case of the end of the world all drivers, while fleeing from nuclear radiation, zombies, foreign armies, or cross-Canadian bird-pig flu, will inevitably flock to the highways. A truck can take the median, the field, the curb, or the sidewalk. A truck can drive out of situations where it is completely buried in dirt, drive through molten lava without issue, and drive down mountain sides without roads (source: Lone Wolf McQuade, Dante's Peak, and Commando.)

As you can see a 20 year old truck is clearly superior to a Prius in every way. Not only will you have much more utility with the truck, but it is cheaper to own as well. So I only ask that the next time a Prius blazes down the highway at ludicrous speed, firm in the belief that they are saving the world, take a moment and truly think how much more awesome and efficient your truck is.

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5 Good Reasons to Move Up in a Micra

New or used, bright red or powder blue... your decision to buy a Nissan Micra might just be your best one yet. And there are endless reasons to support it. Here are just five...

1. It's a Nissan. And that says a lot. You can't go wrong buying from a brand that has been around for decades and has built a solid reputation for creating great quality products that last. For you this means great resale value, so when you're ready to trade up, you won't lose out. What's more, as Nissan vehicles are assembled locally, parts are readily available so you won't have to wait weeks for it to be imported like some European badges will have you do. Plus, you won't have to look far and wide to find a reputable dealership to service your Micra as Nissan boasts a countrywide network offering professional support in and around all major cities and even smaller towns.

2. It makes good financial sense. Not only is the new Micra competitively priced, retailing from under R100 000 at leading South African dealerships, but you'll also be able to find a value-for-your-money deal in the used Micra market. The Nissan Micra has been around since 2004 and since been released with 1.2L, 1.4L and 1.5L engines with petrol and diesel options in both 3-door and 5-door derivatives. Smaller yet punchy drivetrains in this case equal low fuel consumption figures for further savings. The latest 1.2L petrol Micra boasts an astoundingly low 5.2L/100km fuel economy reading, so you can go pretty far on a tank and even further on your fuel budget.

3. It's just the right size. The Nissan Micra might look small from the outside, but it's considerably bigger on the inside. With ample headroom, legroom, luggage space and various little storage nooks it can easily fit a family. Also, as the Micra is lighter, it's more agile and can move around comfortably in congested traffic. Its exceptional rear and downward angle visibility and class-leading turning radius make it easy to get into and out of the tightest parking bay. Add smooth handling to the mix and you're ready to enjoy a hassle-free drive whatever the conditions.

4. It's packed with features. You'll get a whole lot more than you'd expect in this price range. Comfort features such as air conditioning, an audio system at your fingertips and modern info display add to your driving pleasure while top safety measures such as ABS, EBD and multiple airbags provide added peace of mind.

5. It looks different. Love it or hate it, the Nissan Micra's quirky design lets it stand out in a crowd. And for those who don't like following the masses and driving the same car as their friends and neighbours, the Micra makes for a clever alternative. Nissan even has a range of accessories available such as bonnet and headlight guards, chrome mouldings, sporty pedals and even a roofbox, should you wish to add your own stamp of individuality. Plus there are numerous fun colours like Tangerine, Active Blue and Dark Red to choose from in the latest range.

And the list goes on... If you are serious about buying a new or used Nissan Micra, the best way of course to cement your decision, is to test-drive one. Why wait?

The author is an experienced automobile engineer and has worked with manufacturers across the globe. The author occasionally writes Nissan Blog Posts on motoring topics that include reviews of the Nissan Micra, X-Trail, GT-R, Pathfinder and the Juke.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kamesh_G

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2 Reasons Why Extended Vehicle Protection Plans Are Better Than Factory Warranties

When you buy a new car, it comes with a warranty from the factory to cover premature component malfunctions and failures. The terms of the factory warranty will vary based upon the make, model, and manufacturing year. While most people trust their manufacturer's warranty, there is a higher level of distrust regarding extended vehicle protection plans because of the dishonest marketing of plans by some companies, the financial instability of others, and the perceived lack of benefits provided by most plans. However, there are reputable companies backing plans with some extra perks that go above and beyond what factory warranties cover.

To be clear, extended vehicle protection plans aren't meant to compete with factory warranties. In most cases, autos covered by a bumper-to-bumper warranty have no need for additional coverage. These extended plans are intended to provide coverage after the factory warranty expires. Here are two ways how they provide better coverage than your factory warranty.

1. Service with Any ASE Certified Mechanic
Factory warranties require the covered auto go to the dealership for service and repair work. This isn't always convenient. Plus, what if the dealership is too busy to begin repairs right away when an ASE certified mechanic with a reputable, independent service station can complete the work immediately? With extended vehicle protection plans, auto owners have greater flexibility for service.

2. More Than Just Parts and Labor
When an auto breakdown occurs, there are often costs in addition to parts and labor. Breakdowns are never convenient, especially if the driver experiences a problem and has to pull over on the side of the road or on the freeway. This can add extra costs for emergency assistance and towing. Plus, if the dealership is busy or has to wait to have a replacement part shipped in, the auto could end up in the shop for a week or more. Most people can't afford to be without transportation for this extended period of time and dealerships can't afford to provide loaner vehicles to all customers. Most extended plans come with rental car coverage.

It is important to research the companies that back extended vehicle protection plans to see if they have any negative ratings with the Better Business Bureau and negative reviews from customers. Plus, it is necessary to thoroughly review the coverage, and terms and conditions of the plans since not all policies offer the same coverage. What's important to know is that there are reputable, stable companies that provide fully-insured extended vehicle protection plans to provide auto owners coverage once their factory warranty expires.

Buy used car warranty under extended vehicle protection plans at American Auto Assurance to extend the protection of your auto from costly repairs after their auto warranties expire.

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Vintage Cars - Top Five Reasons Why They Are Still In Demand Today

While modern car sales continue to fall, vintage cars are getting hotter these days. According to research, there is a huge demand for them all over the world. Hundreds and thousands of vintage cars are sold each year and each car is worth millions of dollars. Indeed, these classic cars are now soaring not just in the US but to other Eastern countries despite the reports of the economic downturn.

But why do people love these cars? Why are they are so popular? Following are some of the best reasons why these cars are still in demand today:

Passion For Collecting Excellent Finds
People are fond of collecting all sorts of stuff from jewelry to gold coins, silverwares, potteries, porcelain and even cars. By and large, people who collect cars are mostly men. Their passion is not limited to modern and brand new cars but vintage cars as well. Just like Jay Leno, the famous host of the Tonight Show in NBC. He now owns 300 vehicles excluding his 60 motorcycles. Included in his car collection are several Stanley Steamers from the early 1900s, muscle cars from the 1950s and '60s, and a 1932 Packard Twin Six 12-cylinder coupe. It only shows that people will do anything just to add a good piece to their collection, even spending millions of dollars.

Vintage Cars As An Investment
Financial experts believe that people should start investing in order to protect their wealth against inflation. However, a lot of people did not know that selling these cars are very lucrative. Classic cars are considered as excellent investment mediums. Those that are for restoration are very cheap to buy but after a few modifications and repairs, they can be sold twice or thrice higher than the original value. Surely, this type of investment is profitable. However, aside from having a million dollar worth of bank account, interested investors need to be well verse with the car industry and the different types of vintage car in order to maximize the profit and not to be ripped off the car's actual value.

Some of the important things one should note before investing in this venture are the best car manufacturers, the types of vintage cars, the manufacturing year of the chosen car, the car's general condition, functions and different features and the market price of cars.

Restoring Vintage Cars Can Serve As A Trophy Of Honor
Since they went through so much history, people are keen to add them in their collection. They take pride and glory for owning them. Also, it gives one a great achievement to restore a car to its former condition and splendor.

Vintage Cars Have Upscale Designs
They are very stylish. Their lines and overall body was artistically made. Their chic and classy design can make every head turn.

Nostalgic Appeal
Truly we cannot go back in time. But driving a classic car can give the owner the opportunity to reminisce and to relive what was long been gone. It can bring back good and bad memories. Since these cars had stood the test of time, some of them were survivors of war and tragic times in the early 1900s.

Indeed, classic cars or vintage cars are still in demand nowadays. Despite the economic crisis that the whole world is facing, still many people are willing to spend money for exquisite classic cars. The next time we see a vintage car passed by, hopefully our perception has changed and we think of them not just as a piece of metal but a great artwork that survived time.

At truegoodlove, learn how love can mean so many things - from love of cars, to how love can be incorporated in education and history. Love indeed is all around us. To learn more about love visit the links today.

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