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How To Check A Used Car Before Buying?

Written by Chris in Auto Engines,Auto Parts,Cars

How To Check A Used Car Before Buying

Are you on the lookout for a used car.? I’ll tell you how you can save a few good bucks and yet have a car of your choice. Remember that old is not always gold, particularly if it is a used car. People often say, “You’re lucky if you get a car free of any trouble.”

I can say it is your investigative skills, watchful eyes, probing mind, and research approach that aid you in finding the right kind of used car. I can aid you in checking a used car by taking you to its various broader aspects and individual components.

I: EXTERNAL FACTORS

checking used car

Photo Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFK7yU8HeUM

Reliability Profile

From the Annual Subscriber Survey of the Consumer Report, you can find out the actual reliability information related to specific models of car in the market. Try to find out a list that mentions about the cars that perform the best and those that are the worst. Go through the history of reliability chart, coming along with model pages. From this, you can find seventeen trouble-prone areas of the car. While inspecting the car, you must focus your probe on those areas.

Warranty or As-is-where-is

As required by the Federal Trade Corporation, for every used vehicle, the dealer has to provide a Buyer’s Guide with respect to every vehicle that has been used and offered for resale. This is usually fixed on a window of the vehicle. The information includes if the vehicle is supported by warranty or not and what the repair cost will be borne by the dealer. I’ll suggest the one that comes with the manufacturer’s warranty.

Inspection

Instead of relying solely on your inspection, you can take the help of a friend. Carry on the inspection in broad daylight, parking the car on a level surface. Ensure that the car was not driven for an hour before your inspection.

The Inspection may be carried, broadly of two parts: Exterior and Interior

II: EXTERIOR INSPECTION

EXTERIOR INSPECTION

Photo Credit: http://usedcarsforsalebloemfontein.co.za/buying-used-cars-in-bloemfontein-your-inspection-checklist/

1. Body Conditions

Have a thorough inspection of each of the panels and roofs, giving particular attention to dents, scratches, rusting, misaligned panels, lines of fenders and doors, and the finished paint. If you feel, the Dent is given a cosmetic touch with any filler, you can check it by putting a magnet on it; fillers will not be attracted.

Similarly, if any repainting is done, you can identify it by observing the paint that adheres to the rubber seals surrounding the hood of the car. You can check any rusting or blistering of paint by checking the outer body. Check the wells of the wheels, the bottom of the door, and also the rocker panels lying below the doors. If the doors are loose on the hinges, they must have been subjected to longer and harder use

2. Glass

Make sure that there are no large pocket areas or any cracks. If there are cracks in the window shield, you may have to go in for a costly repair

3. Suspensions

Ensure that the car is standing on the level. To check the condition of the suspension, put up and down, bouncing to each corner of the car. If the car rebounds only once, it is in good condition. To check the wheel bearing or suspension joints, grab the top of the front tire and move it back and forth. If there is play or you hear a ticking sound, there is a problem.

4. Lights and Lenses

Switch on all the lights, one by one and with the help of a friend, confirm that they are working all right. Ensure that the reflectors and lenses of the light are not smeared with moisture or are not cracked.

III: Interior Inspection

Interior Inspection

Photo Credit: http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/borrow/planning-to-buy-a-second-hand-car-heres-what-you-should-know/articleshow/46419407.cms

  • Odor: If you feel a moldy, musty and mildew smell, there may be water leaks. To be sure, remove the floor mats and check if the carpet has wet spots.
  • Seats: Check all the seats to be satisfied with the condition of the upholstery and the adjustments provided by the manufacturer.
  • Pedals: Check the rubber, covering the pedals of clutch, brake, and clutch. Less wear indicates lower miles run. Excessively worn out or new rubber indicates more mileage run.
  • Instruments & Controls: After turning, don’t start the engine to see if all the warning lights go off after illuminating for a few seconds while you put the engine to start. Find out if the engine starts with difficulty. And when the engine is running, check how quickly the A/C makes it cold and how early the heater heats.
  • Sound Systems: Check the reception of the FM and AM radio, CD player, or the devices for playing iPod or MP3
  • Roof: Have a checking of the roof trim and headliner for snags or stains to see if there is any leakage along the sunroof or through the doors or windows that are ill-fitted.

IV: Engine Components; Under the Roof

short circuit in car

Photo Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufVuWznmJLA

Make the following checks when the engine is cool. After opening the hood, if you find loose hoses hanging or battery is corroded, you can be sure a poor maintenance.

  • Hose & Belts: Check the suppleness of the rubber hoses to the radiator and air conditioner by squeezing them. Also feel the drive belts for determining if they are worn out.
  • Fluids: If you find the engine oil colored as honey, it must have been recently changed. If you insert a dipstick and find water droplets or foam-like oil on it, it could be an indication of cracking of the engine block or blowing off the head gasket. If you find particles of metals on the dip stick, on the rag, that is the sign of serious problem
  • Radiator: Be alert of pinhole leakage if you find stains of greenish color on the outside of the radiator.
  • Battery: Usually, batteries have indicators to exhibit the extent of charge. An indication of green color shows that battery is in good shape and yellow indicates that it is in a dying or dead state.

V: Tires with Well-Tread & Balancing

car maintenance tips

Photo Credit: http://artsonearth.com/2013/07/car-maintenance-10-common-mistakes-most-people-make.html

Tires running below 20,000 miles look original, and there is a chance of being misled if the speedometer is rolled back. If all the four tires are not the same, there are chances; they had been replaced. Confirm that the tires have been regularly rotated. If not, there will be more wear on the drive wheel.

If you find uneven wearing at the circumference of the tread, there are chances of a problem with steering suspension or brakes. By using a tool called quarter, measure the tread depth, which should be 1/16 inch. Check the sidewalls to see if there are any scuffing cracks or bulges on the tire.

To change a flat tire, you need a Jack, lug wrench, and a fully inflated spare tire. Ensure that these are available in the car.

To balance car tires, you have to adopt a process of equalizing the weight of the combined tire and wheel assembly, to make them spin smoothly at high speed. The process involves placing the wheel assembly on a balancing machine that centers the wheel and spins it for determining where the weights should go.

Conclusion

Check the floor where the car is usually parked. If you find marks of old oil, transmission fluid or coolants, you can sense problems. You can take the car to an independent mechanic, who can make a thorough inspection of the interior, exterior and under the vehicle and give his unbiased opinion about the condition of the car.

Best Pressure Washer For Cars: An Easy Way to Keep your Vehicle Clean

Written by Chris in Cars,Reviews

Best Pressure Washer for Cars

If keeping your car clean is your priority, you have a good reason to invest in a pressure washer. The latter will make it easy to get rid of stubborn dirt and grime on the surface of your car, which would have been otherwise hard to remove with scrubbing alone. It will make it a lot easier to maintain your car in its tip-top condition.

What is the best pressure washer for cars? Picking the right product can be a hard task because of the abundance of options that are available. Nonetheless, this should not be an excuse for you to decide in haste. Keep on reading the rest of this guide, and we’ll make it easy for you to make the right decision.

Product (Amazon Links)Brand  

Sun Joe SPX 300 Electric Pressure Washer

Sun Joe

Review

AR Blue AR383 Electric Pressure Washer

AR Annovi Reverberi

Review

Simpson Cleaning MSH3125-S Gas Pressure Washer

Simpson Cleaning

Review

Generac 6882 2900 PSI Pressure Washer

Generac

Review

What is a Pressure Washer for Cars?

In its simplest sense, it is handy equipment that makes use of high-pressure water to clean surfaces, in the case of this guide, surface of cars. The pressure that it produces is strong enough to get rid of dirt and grime, even those that have already hardened on the surface.

They vary in terms of their performance. The power that they can provide is expressed in gallons per minute. On the other hand, the pressure is expressed as pounds per square inch. You need to take a look at the numbers to easily evaluate the possibilities. Be sure to understand what these numbers mean and how they affect the performance of the product.

Top Picks for the Best Pressure Washer for Cars

In this section, we will briefly go through some of the best brands and models that are available in the market. We will tackle some of their notable features, which should make it a lot easier for you to narrow down the possibilities.

1. Sun Joe SPX 300 Electric Pressure Washer

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This is one of the most powerful options available in the market, allowing it to easily tackle even the toughest dirt and grime. The powerful motor of this unit makes it possible to deliver maximum cleaning performance. It comes with two detergent tanks, which means that you can store two types of detergents for different cleaning tasks.

It also comes with a Total Stop System, which will allow the pump to halt operation on its own if the trigger is disengaged. To be provided with the best value for money, it is also a good thing that it is inclusive of different accessories, which include a high-pressure hose and quick-connect sprays for versatile applications.

Main Product Features:

  • Water Pressure: 2,030 PSI
  • Motor: 14.5 amps
  • Wattage: 1,800 watts
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Weight: 31 pounds
  • Dimensions: 33.9 x 13.5 x 15.6 inches

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Has a lot of safety features

Cons:

  • No water reserve tank
  • Wand can be short for some

2. AR Blue AR383 Electric Pressure Washer

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This pressure washer comes with a 20-foot hose, which means that you can clean your car even without the need to be near the unit. To add, the power cord has a length of 30 feet, which will also allow you to work far away from the source of power. With this model, you will always be in control when cleaning cars.

One of the features that make sure of the latter is the adjustable spray. There are also two pressure washer wands. Lastly, this can also be excellent if you are looking for a product that is user-friendly. From its assembly to its operation, everything will surely be a breeze to accomplish.

Main Product Features:

  • Water Pressure: 1,900 PSI
  • Weight: 27 pounds
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Dimensions: 28.5 x 12.25 x 11.25 inches

Pros:

  • Comes with an adjustable spray
  • Easy to assemble and operate
  • Durable construction

Cons:

  • Reeling hose can be difficult
  • Short warranty coverage

3. Simpson Cleaning MSH3125-S Gas Pressure Washer

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If there is one thing that makes this different from the products that have been mentioned above, it would be the fact that this is gas-powered. This is also why it tends to be louder, bigger, and heavier. Despite all of these, there is one thing that can convince you to choose it – power.

Looking at the specifications will give you a compelling reason to buy this model, as it will be capable of tackling even the toughest dirt in your car. It comes with pneumatic tires, although the bulkiness and weight may make it quite tricky to move around. It also has an excellent spray gun with different nozzles to suit various applications.

Main Product Features:

  • Water Pressure: 3,100 PSI
  • Warranty: 5 years for frame, 2 years for engine, 1 year for pump
  • Weight: 65 pounds
  • Dimensions: 23.25 x 21 x 34.75 inches

Pros:

  • Delivers exceptional power
  • Durable construction
  • Powered by an impressive pump

Cons:

  • Can be hard to maneuver

4. Generac 6882 2900 PSI Pressure Washer

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This pressure washer is not just designed for cars but for a variety of other cleaning applications at home as well, such as for the deck, patio, and driveway, among others. It comes with 10-inch solid tires, which will make it easier to maneuver the unit. This is a good feature because the motor is quite heavy.

It also comes with Quick Click nozzle tips, which will allow you to change the nozzle in an instant based on what is required for a specific task. The design of the spray gun is also impressive, which makes it easy and comfortable to hold.

Main Product Features:

  • Water Pressure: 2,900 PSI
  • Engine Rating: 196 cc
  • Weight: 57 pounds
  • Dimensions: 24.2 x 18.9 x 35.5 inches

Pros:

  • Versatile cleaning applications
  • Comes with a powerful motor
  • Well-designed spray gun

Cons:

  • Loud
  • Some parts not very high quality

What are the Different Types of Pressure Washers for Cars?

There are many ways to differentiate the pressure washers that you will be confronted with. Among others, one of the best would be the source of power. In this case, the following are the options that you will have:

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  • Electric Pressure Washer: This is the more popular option between the two. To function, it needs to be plugged in a power source. The problem is that their functionality can be limited by the length of their cord. They also are often not as powerful as their counterpart. However, it is a good thing that they are more lightweight.
  • Gas Pressure Washer: If power is the more important consideration for you, this is one product that should be on the top of the list. However, one of its drawbacks is that they are usually heavier, and hence, moving it around can be hard. Also, they are louder compared to electric pressure washers.

What are the Benefits of the Best Pressure Washer for Cars

Do you really need a pressure washer for cleaning your car? If you are not yet convinced, the following are some of the most compelling reasons that might make you change your mind.

1. Easy to Clean Your Car

This is at the top of the list when mentioning the benefits of owning a pressure washer. Traditionally, you have to scrub your car using a cloth or sponge to clean it. This can be time-consuming and will require a lot of effort on your end. Investing in a pressure washer is a good idea to make your life a lot easier.

2. Remove Even Tough Dirt

Another good thing about pressure washers is that they are powerful, making sure that no traces of dirt are left behind. From bird poop to stains, everything will be a lot easier and quicker for you to remove. The high pressure of the water will take care of even the toughest dirt.

3. Delivers Multiple Functions

While we are talking about pressure washers for cars in this article, they will be good beyond cleaning your automobiles. Many of them will also be useful for various residential cleaning tasks, such as for the patio or the driveway. They can also be used for cleaning the tires of your car, not just its body.

How to Choose the Best Pressure Washer for Cars

As you try to narrow down the options that you will be confronted with, the following are some of the most important things that you need to consider:

  • Technical Specifications: Before anything else, you need to look at the technical specifications of the pressure washer, which will be a good starting point in evaluating the performance that they can deliver. With this, the following are some of the most important:
  • Gallons per Minute: Often expressed as GPM, this is the measurement of the water that can be delivered by the washer in a minute. A higher number indicates more power.
  • Pressure per Square Inch: Also known as PSI, this is a measurement of the pressure that can be produced by the product. As usual, the higher the number is, the more powerful is the unit.
  • Ease of Use: You should prioritize those that have user-friendly features, which would mean that cleaning your car will not be a hard task for you. The manufacturer must also provide comprehensive instructions on how to properly operate the pressure washer.
  • Mobility: Especially if you are going to buy a pressure washer that is powered by gas, it is important that it will be easy to move the unit around. Having tires is a good idea. There should also be a well-designed handle.
  • Versatility: Choose a pressure washer that will be able to deliver multiple functionalities. This means that there should be different nozzles for a variety of tasks. There should also be an option for you to select the power of the spray based on what is required.
  • Safety: Do not forget to take a look at the safety features of the product. There should be protection from overheating. It should be stable when it stands. Also, it will be good if there is total stop system so that it will turn off on its own when the trigger is not engaged.
  • Maintenance: It is inevitable that the pressure washer will show signs of wear and tear through the time. To extend its functional lifespan, chose a product that will be effortless for you to clean and maintain.
  • Warranty: A longer warranty coverage is a better option, although this might add up to the cost of the product. Within the warranty period, if problems are experienced, the manufacturer will offer free repair and replacement of parts in accordance with individual terms and conditions.

Conclusion

From the five products that we have briefly discussed above, if there is one that I can say is my favorite, it would be Sun Joe SPX 300 Electric Pressure Washer. The latter is lightweight and easy to move around. It is made from high-quality components. It may not be the most powerful, but for cleaning your car, its performance will be more than enough for what you will need.

Are there other products that you need for your car? Click here and read our buying guides and reviews, which will make it easier for you to arrive at a right decision.

Top 10 Essential Driving Tips For New Drivers On The Road

Written by Chris in Cars

Top 10 Essential Driving Tips For New Drivers On The Road

You might be excited to receive your driver’s license. Driving is a useful skill everyone must know. But remember, driving is a privilege, and you should be a responsible driver before you start your vehicle. All the rules and regulations can make you feel overwhelmed, but if you follow the rules carefully, no doubt you will become a good driver on the road in no time.

Many new drivers are involved in a crash in the first year of driving. Driving, for teenagers, remains an exciting step towards independence, but remember it is a big responsibility, and you should balance freedom with safe behavior. What you do in the driver’s seat will affect not only you but also others on the road. Here are given ten useful tips for new drivers.

1. Try to know more about your car

transmission breakdown

If you have got a new car, the first thing you must do is to know more about your vehicle. Don’t just start driving the car. Turn it on and look at the buttons. Turn on the switches for the rear fog lights and the front and other lights available there.

You should know how to use all the features before you start driving your vehicle. You must get familiar with the basics of your car and understand how to change the gear. You should never change the lower gear at high speed and let your car come to a stop to move reverse.

2. Correct your seating position according to your height

It is very important to correct the seating position to get comfort and control while driving. This could avoid the probability of having accidents. You should sit straight with your back cupped in the seat fully to prevent back injuries. The seat should be arranged in a position where you can see all around comfortably.

Your knees should not be stretched too much when racing the car. The height of the seat should be in such a way your eyes are half the height of the windshield. Make sure you are sitting upright and don’t bend forward.

3. Obey traffic rules

You must obey the speed limit, and driving too fast will give you less time to react. Too much speed can cause accidents. Make sure you wear your seat belt, and passengers sitting behind you must also wear the seat belt. You must adjust your car’s headrest to the height behind your head to minimize head injury in the case of an accident.

Don’t drive your vehicle like you own the road. Never try to imitate other drivers, and try to stay away from aggressive drivers. A lot of accidents are caused on freeways. You should never try to pull out in someone else lane.

Obey traffic rules

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4. Adjust mirrors

Once you enter the driver’s seat, you must adjust the mirrors. Your mirrors will show what’s behind you, but they will not show you what’s outside your peripheral vision. Wear your seat belt and keep the rules in mind. You should avoid distractions while driving, especially when you are driving in heavy traffic areas. Keep your eyes and attention focused every single second.

The most important thing you must keep in mind is that don’t use a mobile and don’t drink while driving. Youngsters used to eat and turn up the music volume high while driving. But remember, violating the rules can lead to an accident. You should never indulge in deep conversation with your family and friends while driving the vehicle.

5. Don’t drive to someone else blind spot

You should check your blind spot whenever you change lanes or go to turn right. Your blind spot is a large area where bikes and cars can lurk undetected until you turn right and then bang. People who change lanes without looking properly can face trouble, so stay out of such issues.

If you are moving towards the right, slightly behind the other’s car, there is a chance they can see you. So, either drive your vehicle alongside or in front of others until you are sure they can see you in their mirrors. Never drive your car to someone else blind spot.

6. Using turn signals

While passing, turning, and merging, you must be alert. Other drivers may be around you. Many accidents happen to turn the vehicle without using turn signals. Avoid turning the left side across the busy area, which doesn’t show turn signals. You should plan a route that doesn’t need a turn. If you find another vehicle in your lane, wait for the traffic to clear.

You must use turn signals to indicate your intention to change lanes. Make sure you turn the signals on for a few minutes before allowing the car behind you to react before you turn. Then, turn the signal off. Never pass over the solid yellow line and in bad weather conditions. Make sure you have passed the car with enough space before turning to another lane.

7. Driving tips for winter

Driving tips for winter

Via: https://www.autocar.co.uk/winter-driving-tips

Driving during bad weather can be dangerous, but it may not be possible for some people to avoid driving their car during the winter season. Keep your windshield wipers on and headlights on in freezing rain, fog or snow. It provides you visibility and helps other drivers to see you. If it is raining too badly, you must find a safe place to pull over until the rain stops. Never use cruise control in wet condition.

During winter, when driving on snow, use light pressure on the accelerator. If your wheel starts spinning, then accelerate it until traction returns. If you have to move your car out of snow, make sure the exhaust tailpipe is clear. Before you start driving in winter, check your brakes to see how much time it will take to stop the vehicle.

Make sure you keep an ice scraper along with a brush to remove snow. Ensure that the windshield washer works properly during winter. During snowfall, bridges and flyovers can freeze before the roads do. So if you are unsure you cannot drive in bad weather, it is best to cancel the trip. If you get stuck in the snow, place the floor mats under the edge of the tire to give them traction. Drivers must have a set of jumper cables in their car, and you should know the proper way of using jumper cables.

8. Keep a distance from another vehicle

car technologies 2017

Photo Credit: https://www.techmalak.com/how-safe-is-self-driving-car-technology/#.WR6qvGiGPIU

Today, most cars have powerful braking systems, but still, one should maintain a distance from other vehicles moving in front of you. You can be courteous to follow the rules on the road, but others may not be.

The best way to drive safely is to become a defensive driver rather than being aggressive. Horns are used to alert drivers around you. Remember, you should never overuse the horns. This can irritate other drivers by causing unnecessary trouble on the road.

9. Driving around the school campus

It is very important to be mindful when you are driving a car around the school campus. You must stop your vehicle when it comes with flashlights on. The flashing light means children are getting on or off the bus. Never park your vehicle in the fire lane around the school area because you would be blocking the area where parking is allotted for fire engines.

You should drive your car slowly when you reach school and hospital areas. Watch kids getting off the bus when you take the reverse. Park your vehicle straight in the school parking area. Avoid leaving food items, phones, and sports equipment inside your car, which can be seen easily.

10. Try your best to avoid accidents

Try the best to avoid accidents

Via: http://www.duffyfeemster.com/library/the-three-no-zones-of-large-trucks.cfm

New drivers have the risk of meeting accidents when they are driving on a busy road. Accidents can be caused by many reasons, such as talking on the phone, not paying attention, fatigue, and speeding. Youngsters admit they use a cell phone while driving. The best possible way is to keep your phone away where you can’t get it while you are driving. This can prevent you from causing accidents. If you are drunk, you may call your parents or relatives to drive you back home.

Never drive with a person who is taking drugs. Don’t allow friends to change the music from the back seat. This can lead you to lose focus and take your eyes off the road while driving. So it is recommended to limit passengers. Teenagers are used to driving late at night, and if you are feeling sleepy, you may park the vehicle in a safe place and take a nap for at least 45 minutes.

Summing up…

If you are a new driver, you must obey even small rules. Keep all the tips in mind when you are in the driving seat and heading forward. Accidents can happen to every driver. Don’t get frightened or become emotional. Call the police immediately and then call your parents. Don’t try to move the car until photos have been taken. Remember, accidents can be avoided if you follow the simple tips. Never drive a vehicle if your mind is not fully alert.

Best Rear View Mirrors: A Quick Guide Before You Buy

Written by Chris in Auto Parts,Reviews

Best Rear View Mirrors

We use rear view mirrors to know our surroundings as we drive. Many of us tend to take them for granted until they cannot be used anymore. Sometimes, we also just make do with the rear view mirror that came with our vehicles. However, if you are looking for one with more functionality and extra safety features, you need the best rear view mirrors. In this article, you will find everything you need to know before you buy one.

At the end of the day, safety is still a priority. With the help of the best rear view mirrors, you can make sure that driving will be safer for you and your family.

Product (Amazon Links)Brand 

Polaris Rear View Mirror

Polaris

Review

CIPA Wedge Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror

CIPA

Review

AUTO-VOX Dual Video Inputs 4.3″ Car Rear View Mirror

Auto-Vox

Review

CHICOM 9.66″ Mirror Dash Cam

CHIMON

Review

What is a Rear View Mirror?

A rear view mirror is a very important safety feature on your vehicle. Drivers will have the ability to be more aware of their driving environment when the rearview mirror is often checked. In addition, potential vehicular accidents can be avoided. There are many types available in the market right now. Some offer wider views for safer reversing, passing, and parking. Some also have the capability of seeing through blind spots.

The rearview mirror’s function is to let you see other cars at the rear side of your vehicle. If you have a clear view of what’s happening behind the scenes, you are making sure of everyone’s safety, including yours. Having one is an indication that you are a responsible driver. This is the reason why having the best rearview mirror is important, as it augments safety while driving.

Top Picks for the Best Rear View Mirrors

There are a number of options for rear-view mirrors, which makes it difficult to choose the best one. With this, we have provided the reviews of the top rear-view mirrors to make decision-making a lot easier.

1. Polaris Rear View Mirror

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The Polaris Rear View Mirror will enhance your awareness on every potential obstacle around and behind your vehicle. It can be mounted securely and is adjustable according to your preferences. To add, it can provide an excellent view of traffic around your vehicle. With this, it is guaranteed that utmost safety is experienced when you have this rear view mirror attached to your windshield.

Main Product Features:

  • Item weight: 1 pound
  • Product Dimensions: 10.5 x 6.2 x 2.2 inches
  • Vehicle Service Type: All terrain vehicles
  • Folding: No
  • Warranty: Yes

Pros:

  • Durable and waterproof
  • Easy installation
  • Secure attachment and is adjustable
  • Can endure off road riding conditions

Cons:

  • The mirror is not fastened well to the frame

2. CIPA 36400 Wedge Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror

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The CIPA Rear View Mirror will eliminate the annoying headlight glare especially at night. For maximum comfort and safety, it has an automatic dimming feature that can sense bright lights. In addition, this rear view mirror comes with a digital compass and temperature readout. When you install it for the first time, it will require the use of a power and sensor wire.

This rear view mirror can be mounted directly on top of an existing one. The package includes the mirror, power wire harness, wiretap, temperature sensor, operation card and replacement wedge button.

Main Product Features:

  • Item weight: 1.9 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 11.2 x 5.2 x 3.8 inches
  • Warranty: Yes
  • LED display: Yes
  • Origin: USA

Pros:

  • Has automatic dimming
  • Comes with self-calibrating compass
  • Temperature readout is programmable
  • Easy to install

Cons:

  • Does not come with mounting adhesives
  • Wedge mount only

3. AUTO-VOX Dual Video Inputs 4.3″ Car Rear View Mirror

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The Auto-Vox Rear View Mirror will perfectly match your vehicle’s body. It has the ability to adjust brightness automatically through its 4.3-inch LCD monitor display. Safety is ensured especially when parking, because of the parking image is automatically displayed without pressing any buttons. You just have to set the gear to R to enable this feature.

It is compatible with most car models, such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Mazda, Hyundai, and Kia. It has dual video inputs, including AV1, that can be used for VCD, DVD, TV, and GPS. Lastly, it has AV2 compatibility for the backup camera.

Main Product Features:

  • Item weight: 1.8 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 0.9 x 3.2 inches
  • Display Type: LCD
  • LCD Display: 4.3 inches
  • Wireless Remote: No

Pros:

  • Features automatic brightness adjustment
  • No dazzling and glaring
  • Can automatically show the parking image
  • Easy to install

Cons:

  • The mirror might shake during off-road driving
  • Might not last long

4. CHICOM 9.66″ Mirror Dash Cam

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The Chicom Rear View Mirror has two cameras, one for the front and the other for the back. If you have this mirror, viewing across almost the entire mirror brings a larger picture than many other mirror cams.

It has 1080P and night vision capability. It can record video and loop it so it records over the video in a loop, just retaining the most recent events. It acts as a dash cam, so you can record what is happening in front of you, such as accidents. The G sensor helps sense a crash and keep relevant recordings. 

It has a 9.99 inch display that can provide you a preview of what recording. To add to that, it has 24-hour parking monitoring to record if an accident happens. 

This model has a 12-month warranty.

Main Product Features:

  • Touch video screen: 9.66″
  • Resolution: 1080P
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Camera angle: Front 170 degrees / Back 150 degree
  • Can use an SD card for extra storage

Pros:

  • Has automatic recording
  • Features night vision
  • Comes with rear camera attachment options
  • Records video in case of crash

Cons:

  • Might be glitchy
  • Installation may be fairly difficult

What are the Different Types of Rear View Mirrors?

Your knowledge of the different types of rearview mirrors will definitely help you narrow down your choices. In order to have the best rear-view mirrors for your vehicle, you also have to know why one is better than the other.

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  • Overhead – This type is normally mounted on top of the windshield of your car. It allows the driver to have a comprehensive view of the rear portion of the vehicle. This can be seen on almost all types of vehicles, as it has been a requirement across different regions. It provides a wide view of the back but can be less accurate because of the 90 to 30-degree blind spot. 
  • Side Mirror – You will commonly see this type of mirror on the outside of most automobiles. This mirror is required, especially at the driver’s side. It will allow you to see and be aware of any obstacles next to or behind your vehicle. One downside is that it has a blind spot at 30 degrees.
  • Arched – This type of mirror, also known as convex, is shaped like a dome that allows enhanced vision on certain areas. You will be able to see areas beyond the overhead and side mirrors. This is lightweight and usually comes with adhesives for easy installation. One disadvantage is that the image might be slightly distorted due to its shape.
  • Rear View Cameras – This popular accessory can also be considered as another type of rearview mirror. They can be used on a closed circuit with a small screen you can find on the vehicle’s dashboard. It can provide clear images of the rear portion that are not seen, usually using a rear view mirror.

What are the Benefits of Using the Best Rear View Mirrors?

Some of you might think that rear view mirrors are not a necessity but with its benefits, it can absolutely outweigh the price you pay for it. With this, you can find below some of the reasons why you should have the best rear view mirrors.

1. It can provide a larger field of view.

Having the best rear view mirror can provide you wide angles of vision. You won’t ever need to look over your shoulders to see what’s behind your vehicle. This is mostly beneficial for drivers who experience back and neck pains. Changing lanes has never been easier if you have the best one in the market. Lastly, this is ideal for parents who want to check regularly what their kids are doing at the back seat.

2. It offers less distortion.

Accuracy is very important especially when you are driving. If you have the best rear view mirror, you got to have the most accurate image of the situation going on behind your vehicle. Your mirror having this feature can also be a life-saving property. This can prevent backing accidents that can kill children at the backseat.

3. It provides safety.

Blind spots are definitely reduced if you have the best rear view mirror. Reversing, parking, and even just passing is safer with this. It will provide you an excellent view of the situation behind and on the side of your vehicle while you are driving. In addition, it can prevent any potential accidents.

How to Choose the Best Rear View Mirrors for Yourself?

As there are many types of rear view mirrors available in the market right now, you need to choose the best one for you. Listed below are some criteria that will help you choose the best rear view mirrors.

  • Mounting Style – Rear view mirrors can be attached to your vehicle’s windshield, dashboard, or even the ceiling. When you have decided what to buy, consider whether the mounting is compatible with your vehicle.
  • Size – A mirror is generally from 8 up to 12 inches in length and comes in a square-edged rectangular shape. Others, however, have rounded or oval corners. You have to choose the one that can provide you with a more comprehensive view of the back portion of your car.
  • Anti-Glare – This rearview mirror property will prevent you from getting blinded by the headlights behind you, especially at night. You have to choose one that will not cause problems with your vision.
  • Blind Spot – Wider mirrors offer this significant factor you have to consider. While some may be sufficient, you need to eliminate blind spots. This will benefit drivers with neck and back problems, thus eliminating the need to look over their shoulders.
  • Automatic Dimming – When headlights from the cars behind you are too bright, an automatic dimming feature will be most handy. You have to choose one that can allow you to see, especially during nighttime.
  • Easy Installation – This is especially important if this is the first time you are replacing the mirror that came with your vehicle. You can choose one that includes adhesives that help ease installation.
  • Features – Additional features such as cameras, GPS systems, compasses, temperature readouts, and LCDs are also important. Choose a rearview mirror from which you can benefit the most.

Conclusion

Based on the reviews presented above, we would highly recommend the Falcon Zero F360 HD DVR Dual Dash Cam and Rear View Mirror as your best rear view mirror. The reason is that it has the most advanced technology compared to the other models. This way, you can have a wide view of your vehicle’s rear portion while enjoying the benefits of modern technology.

Do you need more products to hook up your vehicle with? Click here to check some other options that are available in the market right now.

12 Common Car Cleaning Mistakes That You Can Avoid

Written by Chris in Cars

12 Common Car Cleaning Mistakes That You Can Avoid

Car cleaning has always been a bit of a tiring job, generally for all. But their love for their cars, keeping their cars shiny, and maintaining their cars have got them going. All of us are novices when it comes to cleaning or washing our cars. Hardly any one of us knows the correct procedure for washing.

There are many car cleaning mistakes that people normally make if they are completely not aware of car cleaning things. But this can get you into trouble someday.

Car cleaning is a simple task if you are not a novice, plus if you use the right tools to clean your car. Did anyone of us know that there are the right tools to clean your car? And if you do not use these tools properly, you might end up damaging your car.

There is a list of common detailing mistakes that you might make, but by using these tips, you can avoid making these mistakes.

1. Using a Drying Towel

Use your drying towel to remove the dirt accumulated on your car. Are you missing out on anything that might make your car shiny? Are you using an old towel that you use yourself to wipe off the dirt and dust off your car? If you are a novice, you might make this silly car cleaning mistake of using an old towel of yours to clean your car, but this might cause scratches on your car.

Never make this mistake of cleaning your car with your old towel, this will surely chip the paint off your car or make scratches. Instead, always use the best car dusters that are available in the market for your car. You can avoid using this to dry out the dirt, thus saving your car.

2. Washing your Car in Direct Sunlight

This can cause the paint to wear off. Plus, if you wash your vehicle where sunlight is direct, then the soapy water will dry off so quickly that you will not get time to wash it off your car.

3. Using Wrong Detergents

As these dishwashing agents and laundry detergents are caustic and are hard on your car, they will surely prove to be harmful to your car and its paint. These home/laundry detergents are not meant for washing the car. Many of us make this silly mistake of washing our car with home detergents but then regret later.

4. Using just a Bucket Full of Water

Using just a Bucket Full of Water

Photo Credit: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a35060/car-cleaning-mistakes/

To get that gorgeous glow on your car, make sure you squeeze out all the dirt from the Wash Mitt into a separate container before dipping it again into the soapy water. Never use the same bucket for washing the car. Normally, we tend to use only one bucket of water, rather than the same bucket for washing /rinsing the car.

Always use two separate buckets, one with soapy water and one with clean water to rinse your car. You will require one bucket of soapy water to rinse your car thoroughly and the other bucket to wash off that soap from your car. This mistake of using only one bucket for rinsing can be avoided.

5. Wiping Off the Dirt Spots if Seen After Washing

If you ever spotted grime after finishing your washing, clean the area once again. What mistake we tend to make is that we wipe off the spots with a dry towel instead of washing it again. Wiping it off with a towel that is dry could insert dirt particles into the paint of your car while scratching the surface.

6. Using the Same Cloth for Different Purposes

Do not make the mistake of using the same cloth for different purposes. By doing this, you might end up leaving the residues of the earlier used product onto your car.

7. Applying Too Many Rounds of Wax

Applying Too Many Rounds of Wax

Photo Credit: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a35060/car-cleaning-mistakes/

If you apply unwanted, excessive wax on your car, it doesn’t mean that your car will start shining like a jewel. In fact, the excessive wax application is hard to wipe off. Using an adequate amount of wax while you buff your vehicle’s surface will save your precious time, effort and money.

Only two rounds of thoroughly applying wax polish are sufficient and enough to bring back your ride’s luster and shine.

8. Not Cleaning your Car from Top to Bottom

Yes! This is the biggest and most common of all mistakes that we tend to make while washing or cleaning our car. Normally, we wash our car thoroughly, but we do not do so from top to bottom. The mistake that we make is we forget to wash the car tires and its flips.

You are making your car shine like a new brand, just taken out from a showroom. But you tend to forget to clean car tires, which will, at last, take the eyes off your car. Do not haphazardly wash your car. Avoid doing that.

9. Forgetting to Clean Your Car’s Tires

Tires are the dirtiest part of your car. The reason is very clear and simple that the entire is run on wheels only. Hence it is of utmost importance that you wash the tires thoroughly before you touch the body of your car.

10. Using Unbranded, Local and Cheap Products on your Car

It is essential that you apply that branded product/polish on your car that is right for your car. Pouring wax directly onto the surface of your car, pouring polishing agent directly, or any other chemicals in the form of liquid directly on your vehicle’s surface will damage your ride’s polish or shine. It will also prevent you from supervising the product amount that you have to use for cleansing, thus causing uneven paint streaks. Always use sufficient product on a sponge instead.

Using Unbranded, Local and Cheap Products on your Car

Photo Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/detailxperts/car-cleaning-and-maintenance-tips/?lp=true

11. Using Glass Cleaner that is Ammonia-Based

This is the biggest common mistake that we tend to make. We do not inquire about the product while purchasing it to clean the car. Mostly, these glass cleaners contain ammonia and are thus hard on the surface of the glass of your car. Avoid using such cleaners.

Always inquire about the density of the product before you make nay purchase. Chemical ammonia is present in almost all the sprays that are available in the market. Ammonia sprays can damage the glass of your car or can even discolor the posh interiors of your car. Hence, avoid using ammonia-based sprays.

12. Rolling Down the Windows before They Dry

Never make the mistake of rolling down the windows of your car before it dries out. The moment you wash your car glass and roll down the windows, you have made the biggest mistake. There might be scratches on your car’s glass or streaks of water. Avoid doing this.

When we talk about car detailing tips, you should know what you shouldn’t do as it is crucial. Car detailing is indeed important, and you wouldn’t like to start from the middle. Always start from scratch. Detailing your ride at home is a tedious job, but you can still get professional results if you use the proper tips for cleansing and washing.

Then it can be all the easier for you, and you can also say that it has never been an enjoyable task. From polishes to waxes to washes to cleansing products, today’s car cleaning products have been engineered to safeguard your car, and your painstaking and diligent efforts aren’t remembered as paint-scratching errors.

A radiant glow like a diamond and pristine interior are completely yours if you can avoid some common car washing mistakes. The key thing to remember is that the best ways to detail and wash or cleanse your car involve both care and patience.

How Many Volts Does A Motorcycle Battery Charge With?

Written by Chris in Motorcycles

How Many Volts Does A Motorcycle Battery Charge With

Don’t you want a healthy and long battery life for your motorcycle? You do right! To have a healthy and long battery life, it is important to understand the fundamentals of charging your motorcycle.

Almost all the motorcycles have a battery. It is used to provide the power to start the bike. It is also used for diminishing electrical energy.

Keeping your motorcycle battery discharged for a long period can cause untimely battery death. Do you charge your motorcycle battery after using it? If you don’t charge it, start charging because it can lead to early battery death.

There are various types of motorcycle batteries with different charging states and conditions. And so are the charging ways. Here in this article, we will be telling you how many volts your motorcycle battery charges with:

Fundamental Battery Operation

Fundamental Battery Operation

Photo Credit: http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/how-to/dead-motorcycle-battery

Most of the motorcycle batteries are the conventional ‘lead-acid’ batteries. These batteries can be either of 6 volts or 12 volts. If the batteries are in good condition, then the actual voltage value isn’t these values.

When the battery is charged fully and it’s at peak, the terminal voltage of each cell is 2.1V. These cells are connected in a series of combinations to provide the required voltage.

A 6V battery consists of three cells which will give total terminal voltage 3 * 2.1V = 6.3V. Likewise, a 12V battery is made up of six cells having a terminal voltage of 2.1V, which will give a total terminal voltage of 12.6V.

A 12V battery gives energy ranging from 10.5V when connected to a load with dimmed lights to 14V when charged fully. There will be voltage fluctuations as per the charging or discharging states the battery has undergone.

This depends on electrical loads. They lower the voltages temporarily. The usual operating voltage is reduced by the buffering charge.

Charge Status

You can determine the charge status of a battery simply by measuring the terminal voltages. This is the way ‘intelligent chargers’ work. They constantly measure the voltage, and once the required voltage level is reached, it stops charging.

Here in the table below, we will tell you about the approximate value of voltages we get for different charge statuses. Here, we have a comparison of a lead-acid battery, a 12V battery, and a 6V battery.

The voltages measured here are the ‘open-circuit voltages’ with no electrical load connected to them. The readings taken here are with every light off, and the bike’s engine is in a stop state. This table will give you an idea about volts for charging motorcycle batteries:

Charge Status of a battery

Charge Status of a battery Lead-acid battery cell(2.1V)

6V Nominal battery(2.1 * 3 cells)

12V Nominal battery(2.1 * 6 cells)

Recently Charged*

2.13V

6.40V

12.80V

100%

2.10V

6.30V

12.60V

75%

2.06V

6.18V

12.35V

50%

2.01V

6.03V

12.06V

25%

1.95V

5.85V

11.7V

Fully Discharged

1.75V

5.25V

10.5V

*Initially, after the battery is fully charged, the voltage of the battery will be a bit higher, and after a few hours, it will be settled down to 100%.

Charging Voltage

Charging Voltage

Photo Credit: http://www.musicfromthebighouse.com/category/motorcycle-battery/

It is important to take the battery voltage into consideration when you get to maintain the condition and chemistry of the conventional acid-lead cells. For different charging modes, there are different voltage ranges. The table below shows different charging voltage ranges for 2.1V, 6V, and 12V batteries:

Charging Status of Battery

Lead-acid Battery Cell(2.1V)

6V Nominal Battery(2.1 * 3 cells)

12V Nominal battery(2.1 * 6 cells)

Minimum Voltage required for charging

2.15V

6.45V

12.90V

Trickle Charging

2.25 – 2.27V

6.75 – 6.81V

13.50 – 13.62V

Normal Charging

2.30 – 2.35V

6.90 – 7.05V

13.80 -14.10V

Faster Charging

2.40 – 2.45V

7.20 – 7.35V

14.40 – 14.70V

We will not recommend the faster charging option if you charge your bike on a daily basis. If you opt for the faster charging option, you need to take great care as it turns into gassing. So as to provide you with the proper battery chemistry, some of the ‘intelligent chargers’ are used.

Most of the battery chargers and classic bikes with onboard charging phenomena use normal charging voltage range to charge the battery. The least voltage value required for the lead-acid cell is 2.15V.

Lower charging voltage values are useful in trickle charging mode. When you aren’t using the battery for a long period, keep it topped up by connecting it to proper mains charger. This is how you can keep your battery ready to use.

Go for the Replacement Battery

Automotive Multimeter

There are various kinds of batteries available in the market. It’s tough to get the perfect battery for your motorcycle, but we hope the information shared here helps.

Motorcycle batteries range from the conventional ‘lead-acid’ cell to sealed cells and the latest maintenance-free VRLA (valve-regulated lead-acid) batteries, for instance, AGM (Absorbed glass mat) and gel batteries.

Here I have listed some of the best motorcycle batteries that you can choose for your motorcycle. They are as follows:

The manufacturers claim that the motorcycle battery lasts for 48 months. We consider ourselves lucky if it lasts for half of the time that the manufacturers claim. To prevent your motorcycle battery from an untimely death, select the best motorcycle batteries from mentioned above.

Ways to Maintain Your Motorcycle Battery

  • Keep the terminals clean.
  • Inspect your battery now and then.
  • Check the terminals every month to ensure the connections aren’t loose.
  • Check the battery leaks.
  • If you are using a regular motorcycle battery, use distilled water to keep it topped up.
  • Wash your motorcycle
  • Keep the battery charged.

I hope this article helped in choosing the right battery and keeping it from dying earlier. If you have any query regarding this, please let us know by commenting below.