Archive for August, 2010

Papers, Papers, Papers: Things to Check Before Shipping a Car or Bike

Friday, August 6th, 2010

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Once you’ve decided on a vehicle shipping company for your car, you’ll probably receive a list of things to be done. The company will ask you to sign some paperwork, choose pick up dates and let you know what’s allowed and what’s not. For example, most companies require you to empty your trunk and your car of any personal effects.

  • Make copies of your insurance policy, your contract with the vehicle shipping company and any other important paperwork. Keep the paperwork with you at all times. If you’re moving, make sure you’re bringing it along, rather than packing it in a box somewhere. If problems arise, you can always consult your contract.
  • Read the insurance plan thoroughly and make sure you understand what’s covered and what isn’t. If the insurance policy has a limit and you’re shipping an expensive vehicle (such as a collectible or antique), ask about the option of buying additional insurance.
  • Ask for a copy of the car shipping company’s insurance coverage and business registration. Verify that they’re up to date and have the appropriate rights to offer coverage in your state.
  • Make sure you get a signed bill of landing. This will verify that a complete inspection was done and note any problems with the car before pick-up.

Warning Signs of Car Trouble

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

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If you know your car well, chances are you will notice subtle changes in the way it drives and feels. Always trust your instinct when it comes to those changes. If it feels like something’s wrong with your car, take it to a mechanic and have it checked. Certain problems can put both your car and your life in danger. Please make note of any issues to vehicle shipping company before getting transport service or get car fixed.

  • Warning signs to watch out for:
  • A vibrating steering wheel can indicate a faulty wheel or a wheel that’s out of balance.
  • A humming noise from tires can indicate a need to rotate your tires.
  • A high-pitched screeching sound can be a sign that you need to replace your brake pads.
  • A brake pedal that vibrates or shakes can indicate that the rotors are warped and need to be replaced.
  • Strong odors can indicate that the fuel tank vent is obstructed, twater is sipping into the car and rotting the mats or other car parts, the wiring system is burning or the tires are overheating. Any unusual smell should be promptly addressed.
  • Sounds coming from the engine in the form of knocking or squealing indicate overheating, low oil level, a faulty fuel injector or defective bearings.

Why Adding “Bells & Whistles” Can Become an Investment

Monday, August 2nd, 2010

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If you’re intent on keeping the same car for a long period of time, adding enhancements can prove a worthy investment. Next time you’re considering trading in your vehicle, consider whether it would make more sense to customize and “perk up” the one you already have. Enhancements improve the value of your car and can make it easier to sell when you’re ready to. After all, a 10-year old car is a 10-year old. But a 10-year old with custom seats and grille guards can be a one-of-a-kind vehicle.

When adding accessories to your car, consider the following:

Air dams
Bug deflectors
Camper caps
Carrier racks
Custom seats
Custom wheels
GPS and other instrumentation systems

Grille guards
Keyless entry systems
Stereo systems
Striping
Sun roofs
Vehicle navigation systems
Customized wheels and tires
Window tinting

Have a Teen? Don’t Hand Over the Keys Just Yet

Sunday, August 1st, 2010

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Every parent has a moment of panic when a teen ask for the car keys. When you certainly have the option of saying no, chances are you will end up sharing your car. Rather than praying for it to come back intact, there are some things you can discuss with your teen to make sure the car stays in good shape and your kid is safe.

  • Have a talk about general car maintenance and security. Don’t make it about protecting the car from scratches but instead focus on how to look out for warning signs of car trouble, how to drive in extreme conditions and how to do small maintenance things, including changing a tire.
  • Talk about emergency situations and come up with a plan. If the car breaks down in an empty road, what is your teen supposed to do? If you have an AA membership, share the phone number and explain how the process work. They should also have access to a few phone numbers of adults (family or family members) they can contact in an emergency. If you have a trusted repair shop or mechanic in town, give them that number too.
  • Establish rules about driving. While chances they will be broken once in a while, you can set rules on how far your teen can drive, whether he can take road trips and how often he should call and check in. Don’t be obsessive and allow for some breathing room. Asking your teen to call if he’s running late is normal and should be enforced.