skip to main | skip to sidebar

Follow by Email

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Vauxhall has been hit

1 comments
Vauxhall has been hit by fresh claims that it is producing cars with faulty handbrakes and its vehicles have the capacity to roll away when parked.
corsa.JPG
A Report by the BBC’s watchdog programme said owners of the latest Vauxhall Corsa with a D Model variant, which is less that a year old, had reported instances of their car rolling away after being left stationary with the handbrake on, similar to other models earlier last year.

Complaints to the programme have now reached triple figures. Watchdog reported that Vauxhall was ‘surprised’ to learn of the problems with the new corsa but was now looking into the problem.
Watchdog expert Mark Brown said: “even though the design on the teeth of the handbrake is different from the Vectra, it has still presented the same symptoms that we found with the Vauxhall Vectras and Sigums.”
Vauxhall responded by saying it was investigating the cases raised, and insisted that as per the Highway code, when parking on a slope motorists should ‘engage a gear’, and ensure the handbrake is applied without depressing the release button.

The latest blow for Vauxhall comes just months after Which?, the consumer pressure group, reported that owners of Signum and Vectra models also suffered from the same fault.

Arround 250,000 Sigum and Vectra models are being recalled by the manufacturer in order to fit new springs in the handbrake. Vauxhall described the move as a “customer satisfaction programme”. There are no plans to roll out the scheme to Corsa owners.

The recent development is a further embarrassment to Vauxhall, which issued a massive 355,000 Corsa recall in December after a problem with the vehicles braking system was not fixed properly. Despite an initial recall of last generation Corsas in March 2006 and a further recall of 250,000 models in August 2007, the brake fault still affects newer models.

ISOFIX has been around a while now

0 comments
ISOFIX has been around a while now, so it was a surprise not to see more articles out there that talked about this incredibly important safety feature of modern vehicles (then again, I haven’t yet written my thrilling and James May-esque post about airbags). 

Car seat cushions and seatbelts are used to restrain adults in the event of a crash of sudden stop of a vehicle, yet they’re also used to anchor child restraints. The problem with this is that not all seats for children are suitable for the setup of all cars. 

ISOFIX was brought in as an ‘International Standards Organisation FIX’ – or a way in which, internationally, to solve the problem of child safety fixings within any given vehicle. Technical standards were proposed back in the nineties but have only recently been agreed on as a way forward (early this decade).
When cars are manufactured, many of them now feature ISOFIX points. These points allow for the installing of a child seat in a much more easy and simple way – as well as ensuring the secure positioning of the seat itself. 

I thought it might be useful to offer the definition from Wikipedia at this point:
“Isofix is International Organisation for Standardisation standard ISO 13216, which specifies the anchoring system for Group 1 child safety seats. It defines standard attachment points to be manufactured into cars, enabling compliant child safety seats to be quickly and safely secured. Isofix is an alternative to securing the seat with seat belts. Seats are secured with a single attachment at the top (top tether) and two attachments at the base of each side of the seat. The full set of anchor points for this system were required in new cars in the United States starting in September 2002.” 

Generally speaking, the anchor points of ISOFIX in the vehicle will also make it very difficult (if not impossible) for a child seat to be positioned incorrectly within the vehicle. This is also another benefit of the scheme and furthers the safety credentials of ISOFIX. 

There are a variety of ISOFIX classes, which denote what height of seat should be used along with the age of the child (toddler or young child), as well as (even) which way the seat should be facing. The biggest recommendation though is to check your vehicle handbook prior to purchasing any seat, as this will give you an indication of suitability and clear instructions on how to approach the attachment of the seat into your car.

The World’s Most Amazing Car Records

0 comments
The closest mere mortals ever get to true auto-heaven is to book a supercar driving experience at a race track like Silverstone, until then we’ll just need to dream of sitting behind the wheel of a Ferrari, Lotus or Lamborghini…

The world’s most expensive new car



Read our post on the topless Bugatti Veyron
The Bugatti Veyron, at a cool $1,700,000, is the world’s most expensive car. It’s also the world’s quickest off the mark, going from 0-60 in 2.6 seconds. It’s only recently wrested its way back from being only the second fastest however, as that distinction belongs to…

The world’s fastest car



The 2011 Bugatti Veryon Super Sport (our 2010 Supercar of the year) will, when it becomes available later in the year, claim its rightful place as the fastest car in the world, with a recorded top speed (verified by the Guinness Book Of World Records) of 267 MPH. The previous record was held by the SSC Ultimate Aero, at 253 MPH.

The world’s most ‘blinging’ car…



A 24-carat gold-plated Aston Martin DB7 with seven diamonds embedded in the bodywork was shown off at the Prestige And Performance Show in London, shortly after the Bond movie Quantum Of Solace premiered in 2008.

The world’s most eco-friendly car…



The Nissan LEAF (Leading, Environmentally friendly, Affordable Family car, runs the bacronym) is the first fully electric car to be named Car Of The Year. It has a top speed of 93 MPH, with zero emissions.

The world’s most economical car…



The super-efficiently named Volkswagen XL1 Super Efficient Vehicle was unveiled at the 2011 Qatar Motor Show. Its 800CC TDi engine linked to an electric motor can return 313 miles to the gallon.

The world’s smallest car…


Is the recently re-released Peel P-50. Originally released in 1962 and 1965, the three-wheeler is 137cm long by 120cm high, and has been limited to a production run of only 50 units.

The world’s fastest car window opened by a dog…



Striker, a border collie, opened a non-electric car window in 11.34 seconds. His feat was recorded in Quebec City, Canada, in 2004.

This is a guest blog post from Silverstone racetrack, where you can try your hand at driving a range of supercars, including a Ferrari experience, a Lamborghini driving day, as well as taking an Aston Martin for a hoon around the world famous track.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Fall Into Good Car Maintenance Habits

3 comments

Fall into good car maintenance habits now, and keep your car in excellent condition for years to come.

(NAPSI)-While your vehicle might have cruised through warmer weather, cold weather can set in before you realize the leaves have fallen. It's important to remember that vehicles need seasonal adjusting-if you don't want to get caught out in the cold.

"Autumn is a great time for automotive maintenance and repair," says Jim MacPherson, car care expert and automotive radio host for WTIC-AM in Connecticut. "It gives us time to repair the wear and tear and allows us to prepare for those colder days ahead. Following a simple maintenance checklist will save drivers time and money by extending the life of their vehicle and ensuring safer operation."

To keep your car in top shape and running smoothly as we transition into cooler months, here are four big tips to keep in mind:

Tires: Good Pressure, Little Wear and Rotation

Tires lose pressure every month, and more when the temperatures drop. To maintain proper pressure, check your tires monthly and make sure they're filled up to their recommended psi rating (which can be found on the driver's side door paneling, in the owner's manual or sometimes on the tires themselves).

Drivers should also check the tread on the tires regularly for wear; replace excessively worn tires. If it has been over 5,000 miles since your tires have last been rotated, it is important to do so because there's a risk of having one tire wear more significantly than the others.

Finally, if you live in a region where the temperature consistently rests around freezing during the winter months, it's a good time to start looking around for winter tires.

Oil: Switch to Synthetic

Lower temperatures can add stress on your engine. To prevent engine wear, change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual. A switch to synthetic oil, if you're not using it already, will help your car operate more efficiently.

Synthetic motor oils, such as Mobil 1, are specifically designed to protect your engine in wide temperature ranges. For example, Mobil 1's synthetic 5W-30 flows rapidly to critical engine parts during cold start-ups, provides outstanding wear protection and keeps engines clean and running smoothly.

Cooling System: Flush and Refill

The cooling system (radiator) should be checked for leaks and low levels. Additionally, it should be flushed and refilled as recommended in the owner's manual. When checking, remember to never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled.

While coolant may mostly be associated with warmer weather, a vehicle's coolant (or antifreeze) is equally important in the colder months to make sure the vehicle can withstand the temperatures. A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and distilled water is the usual recommendation.

Full Engine Tune-up: Systems and Fluid Levels

If you haven't had your yearly-recommended basic tune-up, now's the time to have that done. Cooler weather will only make existing problems worse. A tune-up will correct engine problems such as stalling and diminished power, and will also ensure that fluid levels (for brakes, transmission, windshield washer, etc.) are topped off or replaced if needed.

A Winter Checklist For Drivers

0 comments

A winter checklist for drivers, find the basic car maintenance checklist to keep your car in great running condition this winter driving season. Make sure you, your passengers and your vehicle are safe in cold weather, snowy driving conditions.

(NewsUSA) - As the temperature drops, car batteries produce less power, belts and hoses become more brittle, tires lose air pressure and engine oil thickens. In a few words, winter is tough on vehicles.

"Marginally operating systems can fail outright in extreme weather," notes Martin Lawson, editorial director for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

The following tips from ASE will help motorists prepare for winter's toughest conditions:

Cooling System.

The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked to prevent breakdowns and potential engine damage from freezing or overheating. The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps and hoses should be checked at the same time.

Oil.

Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual. In extremely cold regions, switching to winter-grade oil, which has a lower viscosity and makes starting your vehicle easier, may be necessary.

Engine Performance.

Get engine problems, like hard starts, stalling and rough idling, corrected early, since cold weather makes existing problems worse.

Windshield Wipers.

Replace worn, streaking blades. If your winters are especially harsh, get rubber-clad (winter) blades. Carry extra windshield-washer solvent and a quality ice-scraper.

Battery.

Can't recall when you bought a new battery? A weak one is likely to fail in the winter. Have its charge checked at a good repair shop to be sure.

Tires. Balding tires are useless in winter's snow and slush. Replace them with all-season tires, or snow tires if your region gets heavy snow. Check the air pressure of all tires including your spare.

Emergencies.

Carry gloves, boots, blankets, a winter coat, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, a cell phone, and some non-perishable snacks.

Safety.

Clear all snow and ice off your vehicle before driving. Keep headlights and taillights cleaned of snow and road grime for visibility -- yours and the other drivers'.

ASE was founded in 1972 to improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive professionals. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification, while their employers display the blue and white ASE sign. They can be found at all types of repair facilities from dealerships to independent garages and franchises. Visit www.ase.com for more seasonal car care tips.

Remember to keep your car in tip top running condition all winter with this helpful basic car maintenance checklist for the cold weather months.

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

take money like a some porn stars

1 comments
How to the take money like a some porn stars, Who then is the. I said a porn star, not from the porn star. This porn star reviews Detailed money to the poor not do evil things. In case you are bearing fruit and pleasure the money, and tell you what to do at all, which is less sordid matter.

You can leave all things and trying to sell the said affiliate. for example, something out of 400 books, music, software. For the convenience of your are, and you have the whole control over what you do.

You can choose your http://pornxchange.com/. but You must be 18 years old and over to be on this site, if not, You no you want to do that. It is not the Lord to call. No boss fires He threatens her, and not pay.

You can choose your your product. I'm not kidding. You do that you want to win. You learn how much you will learn. If you are to fall need to make money. But an element is or care to learn and apply? Then you select amount Him.

You can choose to work with you. You have no troublesome coworkers stuffy. You friends to choose.

You can choose your workplace. We at home on the shore of the result of chance on the top of the mountain. The whole up to you.

Not sure if you see, tells you how to money, however, porn star, something to tell you even better.

But where was He? Now the number of places. pornxchange.com of the universe. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, sell (books, basically).

Welcome to money porn star. Start with the basics. Here the money is affiliate marketing, but you can also lose a lot, if not care for. The letters jump start immediately. This is now defined development and if a man thee in the way.

As far as you can it? I know the people at $ 2500. I know people are at three months after the $ 700. Sed at. There is nothing you through the day of the month it $ 200. This week $ 1,400 and $ (5) 600. How much money, he could do so.

If you can learn, then do succeed. Click images to know, is according to the application. We began to make something happen. Surety for the life of art. Excusing every one about learning, and the money coming porn star from pornxchange.com once again You must be 18 years old and over to be on this site.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Expensive Marques Vs. Budget Brands

0 comments
Have you ever thought about how much that little insignia or motif that sits on the front of your car adds to its’ value?  Some cars are more expensive than others and it isn’t just for the want of a different specification.  What most people don’t realise is that many manufacturers use similar (or the same) platforms and even share engines.  A good example is the 1.9 TDI that’s been an Audi staple for a good while.  This is also shared with SEAT.  VW also ran the same 1.9 TDI in their Golf.

If you’re in the market for a new or used car, remember that a simple badge can add significantly to the price.  Why?  Well, let’s put it another way.  You go into Asda and there’s Asda’s own branded tin of tuna.  Nothing wrong with it, but it might be in basic packaging.  However, does the ‘John West’ stuff look more appealing?  I’ve no doubt that the little coloured logo has more attraction to the eye.  Are the basic components any different?  Of course not.

Cars are just the same as the example above.  They might be in a special place of their own being as they are uniquely designed to transport us places, but they are nonetheless a means for many manufacturers to draw out that extra penny from us, just because we want to be seen driving a particular brand around.  Now, paying for something with a bigger engine, a more economical engine or indeed another extra that genuinely makes a difference to the experience, well that’s something different… I’m happy to spend a few bob extra to get the V6 instead of the standard 2 litre four cylinder…

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Pussy Pocket : the popular new products

0 comments
Sex pocket pussy device is known about the popular new products such as artificial human love pussy. It provides a realistic sense of oppression, the warmth and softness. It is logical that the more expensive toys enhance the illusion of reality. But there's always a chance, a Pocket pussy toys at home. These are the tips shared on a rubber doll house. For more information on the selection and use of fake vagina, please visit our website http://www.hotgvibe.com/.

To begin the preparation of all necessary materials. They are: a box of chips, foam rubber, a condom, a ring, a pair of scissors and a scoreboard vibrator. The production process of a handheld pussy sex at home is quite simple. Above all, you can empty the chips. Insert the foam and cut so that the length of foam or equal to half an inch longer than the length of the box was.

Place the sealing ring inside the condom. Note that the condom inside again when lubricated. Put the condom on the foam and draw a line in the O-ring. Here you can use the foam must be cut. The smallest part of the foam must be able to implement and are based on the bottom of the chip, while others must use a condom inside more, so that a seal on one side roll for their implementation, and the tip of the condom on the other.

Make a small notch at the tip of the condom with a pair of scissors, then add the foam roller into the container intelligent. The foam can be of chips to go around half an inch. With a nail or screw hole in the side of the chip. This hole is used to suction levels can be lowered. And the finishing touch â € "the condom is stretched to the limit as possible. Now it's your sex toy pocket pussy is ready to go!

Remember to use condoms, after replacing the unit. As for the foam under it must be replaced from time to time, and because the condom has a top section.

With a pussy sex hand home can be found in the concealment of her sex life as a simple device can be, when closing to help with the cover. Note that you must ensure that condoms can reduce before the cap is not damaged. Enjoy!

Friday, August 20, 2010

The ultimate beach road trip

4 comments
As the end of August approaches, as the summer begins to near its twilight and as the days grow shorter, we look to the bank holiday weekend with a sense of excitement but also with a sense of panic. It’s almost all over!
August bank holiday is all about creating a last-ditch potted summer so the team at Mio, experts at guiding drivers to their destination, has put together Britain’s must-sea beaches, including post codes to help you construct the ultimate road trip this bank holiday.
Achmelvich, Sutherland (Best for tranquillity)
Achmelvich with Suilven in the background
Creative Commons License photo credit: Saskia Heijltjes
Achmelvich is three miles from the fishing village of Lochinver on the remote west coast of Scotland. It has held a blue flag for 13 consecutive years and in reality is a small collection of beaches huddled around rocky bays and headlands. Turn your back on these peaceful beaches and you’ll see the giant Mount Suilven looming right in front of you.
Mio Postcode finder: IV27 4JB
Sennen Cove, Cornwall (Best for Surf)
Sennen Cove
Creative Commons License photo credit: Dewfs™
A blue flag bearer and one of the best places in the UK to surf, Sennen Cove sits one mile north-east of Land’s End and boasts grassy hills and spotless sands. Experienced surfers take note – the waves get bigger as you head north up the beach.
Mio Postcode finder: TR19 7AW
Bigbury-on-Sea, Devon (Best for exploring)
BIGBURY
Creative Commons License photo credit: Markles55
A golden, rural beach, with low cliffs and warm waters. Burgh Island lies out to sea, where Agatha Christie partied in the 1920s. At low tide, the island is accessible across a sand spit, but at high tide, you’ll need a ride on the big-wheeled sea-tractor.
Mio Postcode finder: TQ7 4AS
Canford Cliffs Chine, Poole, Dorset (Best for relaxing)
A quiet sun trap in between busier surroundings – this blue flag beach is where the locals go to avoid the crush of tourists. The beach has all the facilities you’ll need but none of the hassle of more developed beaches.
Mio Postcode finder: BH13 7HX
Yellowave, Brighton, East Sussex (Best for fitness)
Yellowave is a beach fitness centre between Brighton Marina and the pier. A 2012 Olympics training venue, it holds six beach volleyball courts, which can be turned into two five-a-side beach football or rugby pitches or one international-size beach football pitch, while there is also room for ultimate Frisbee, bouldering, “beachminton” and a play area for kids.
Mio Postcode finder: BN2 1EN
West Beach, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex (Best for the family)
Clacton Beach
Creative Commons License photo credit: Southern_Comfort
A sandy blue flag beach surrounded by the buzz of a traditional seaside resort. Kids can pick up a colour-coded wristband from the lifeguards to avoid getting lost in the furore and the annual air show takes place above the beach on 26th and 27th August.
Mio Postcode finder: CO15 2LF
Hunstanton, Norfolk (Best for activities)
Hunstanton Cliffs
Creative Commons License photo credit: Duncan~
This blue flag beach is framed by red-and-white-striped cliffs and the traditional beach boasts candy floss, doughnuts, donkey rides and a bandstand. There’s also a busy kite-surfing community (http://www.hunstantonwatersports.com/). Hunstanton is the only coastal town in East Anglia to face west so all action stops every evening to watch the sun set into the sea.
Mio Postcode finder: PE36 5BB
Central Beach, Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire (Best for tradition)

Creative Commons License photo credit: steve p2008
A classic British bucket-and-spade type resort. There’s a Victorian gardens and waterfall, the Lollipop Express steam train which takes you along the Victorian promenade and a free Punch and Judy puppet and balloon show to keep you entertained – 11.30am on Wednesdays until 1st September.
Mio Postcode finder: DN35 8SE
Bamburgh, Northumberland (Best for heritage)
bamburgh castle
Creative Commons License photo credit: paul.mcgreevy
A horseshoe-shaped stretch of sand that is overlooked by the imposing turrets of Bamburgh Castle. The beach extends for three miles from the village of Bamburgh to Seahouses and there is ample opportunity to explore more, with the Lindisfarne, the Holy Island and the Farne Islands nearby.
Mio Postcode finder: NE69 7DB
Burntisland, Fife (Best for bad weather)
Burntisland from the Binn Hill
Creative Commons License photo credit: bazhall81
A blue flag winner for 13 consecutive years. The beach hosts old favourites like crazy golf, bouncy castles and an annual summer fairground and if the weather fails there’s a swimming pool with waterslides and a wave machine a short walk from the beach.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

McLaren Announces Customers For MP4-12C GT3

0 comments
McLaren GT Project Manager Andrew Kirkaldy said: “The new 12C GT3 has gone from its first ever shakedown to a 24 hour endurance race in a matter of a few months. That is a huge achievement for the car and its new componentry, as well as the team responsible for its development.

“Our new customers appreciate that taking a race season to develop the 12C GT3 means we are able to deliver a level of reliability and driveability that exceeds their expectations of new race cars.  Like the 12C road car, the GT3 version is based on a carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis and has an all-new engine and transmission arrangement, as well as a bespoke aerodynamics package.  In tests and at races this season we have seen these technologies prove to be robust and efficient. Our experiences during this race season are helping us refine the 12C GT3’s technical credentials.” 

The standard car is a tour de force of what is actually possible with today’s expertise in producing a supercar – it is by all accounts better in quite literally every way than the Hugely popular Ferrari 458 Italia.  I’ve no doubt that the credentials for the GT3 car are equally as solid and it will be a sight to behold as it roars around the track.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall

0 comments

Prepare your vehicle for fall at the end of the summer season. Before you know it the weather will change and you want to be ready to meet the fall head on where auto safety and maintenance is concerned.

(NewsUSA) - In many parts of the country, the leaves have started to fall, and parents have sent their children back to school. Before the weather takes a turn, Firestone Complete Auto Care would like to offer the following car maintenance tips to get vehicles ready for the damp, cold road ahead.

Take Your Vehicle For A Full Check Up.

As the fall weather rolls in, it's important to have the following items checked by a professional: battery cables and terminals, belts and hoses, air filters, windshield wipers and all fluids, including anti-freeze, oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, automatic transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid.

Take A Good Look At Your Tires.

Are there signs of uneven tread wear? That could indicate under-inflation, unbalanced tires or misaligned wheels. Remember to check your tire pressure with a gauge at least once a month and regularly inspect the tread depth. Your tread will be even more important during the autumn months when wet, dead leaves cover the roadways.

Take Care Of Your Lights And Turn Signals.

Fall, along with less favorable weather, also means it's time to turn the clocks back for daylight savings. With a shorter day comes a longer night, so be sure your headlights, taillights and turn signals are in proper working order and shining at the appropriate levels.

Talk To Your Teenager.

Have a teenager in the house? Worried about all the driving they will be doing during the fall? You can't teen-proof your neighborhood, but you can talk to your teen about safe driving before they head to school. Teens Drive Smart, a teen driver safety initiative from Bridgestone Americas, the parent company to Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC, which owns and operates Firestone Complete Auto Care, has tips and resources for parents to help start a conversation with their teens about smart driving. Visit www.TeensDriveSmart.com for more information.

Remember, not only can taking these small steps keep your vehicle running newer, longer, but they can also help keep you and your family safe on the road.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Looking some hottest Video's

0 comments
Whenever you look like looking out porn videos whith greats stars sexy girl's actresses from complete the world then you must be a someone who also loves to get the best porn videos for your possess private sex video tapes collection. But how many collection of video's sexy tapes have you got everyday? Where do you usually download them? If you are also an cyberspace and computer community geek and I am sure you acknowledge the greats and most famous calibre website for the downloading the hotty porn videos who also everybody likes. 

There are a lot of porntube internet site* who's available in the World Wide Web has it keeps growth and sprouting from every day. But how could we tell that the internet site have's good material content and reliable enough? I could take place maybe somehow once the best actress get hot playing in the movies is useless once the quality and calibre of the videos is poor.

I would like to ask you something.. Have you ever joined or linked with Bang You Later.com/? for you who's unknown this site, This site is very special unique and hasl due to the feature film* it's and the creation concept on this services always keep up to date daily so you will be able to get the fresh latest videos every day. It is not surprising so when you get bored even with certain hotty porn tube videos that gives you old porn videos tapes or when the videos do by old people or taken 20 years ago with the sucks very-very poor video quality and less tempting directing and chronicle. 

But in Bang You Later, you can get the porn tube with special HD format which is completely crystal clear and amazing. The settings in the video recording* are brighter and more exhilarating and tempting to watch out when the superior of the video recording* is the number one.

Monday, August 20, 2007

Top tips for buying a used car as sales slow in the UK

0 comments

Increasing petrol prices and lower household income are both contributing to a 3.5 per cent annual fall in new car registrations during the month of July, according to new analysis from a leading organisation in the UK. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealed that UK car sales have experienced their 13th successive monthly decline after just 131,634 vehicles were registered during July.

This trend has led people to look for better deals on their vehicles, considering used car sales at Evans Halshaw or other dealerships across the UK. With the need for a bargain in mind, here are a few things that you should keep in mind when searching for your next mode of transport.

Firstly, what do you want from your car? It may sound like an obvious point, yet you need to know exactly what type of car you need. Smaller vehicles are better for town driving, yet it depends on how many people will use it regularly. If kids are in your family or at least being planned, consider how much space you’ll need for them.

People should look to secure a dependable dealer over a private seller, as the latter – or more unscrupulous small-time dealers – may try to give you a bad deal. Buying privately also provides less security than a transaction with the likes of an established brand. While used car sites are handy, professional dealerships usually offer the lowest price and combine it with the best protection plans.

Consider running costs with a used car; with the aforementioned issue with petrol prices, it stands to reason that you would consider diesel cars, or more eco-friendly newer models. Older cars are usually less efficient, while many increase spending on road tax.

Before buying a car, be sure to drive it. For comfort and personal safety, take a friend and ask everything you need to know about the car. Friends are also handy during inspections, which should happen during the day, as they can spot what you may not. Be sure to check all documents and take down the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

The penultimate step is to do a HPI check to ensure the car is not stolen or with outstanding finance. Finally, prioritise haggling – you could get a stellar deal if you just put your foot down.

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Friday, August 20, 2004

GEM Warns Drivers Not To Forego Insurance

0 comments
A poll carried out by breakdown and road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist today revealed that a shocking one in three UK drivers knows someone who has either driven, is driving or has considered driving without motor insurance. Whilst the nation has been trying to save money during the recession, it is becoming more apparent that drivers are cutting corners when it comes to their vehicles. The alarming results expose a huge proportion of drivers who are at risk to a number of serious consequences.

David Williams, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist comments, “It is imperative that drivers understand the importance of always having motor insurance and always at the correct level. The truth is that if you find yourself in an accident without insurance you will end up forking out a whole lot more money, not forgetting the penalties if you are caught driving your vehicle without insurance.”
The severe punishment drivers can face if caught, includes a fine of up to £5,000, six to eight points on their driving licence, having their licence revoked or even having the police confiscate and dispose of their vehicle. Furthermore, with the new motor insurance law which came into force earlier this year, it is now possible for the DVLA to compare its database with the motor insurance database to find out if vehicles are insured. The DVLA can then inform uninsured drivers and should they subsequently not renew their insurance their car can be confiscated.
David continues, “Despite many motorists being aware of these consequences, it is shocking that so many drivers know friends or family who have driven without insurance or who have even considered doing so. Plus, if motorists take the risk of driving without insurance it is also likely that they have failed to tax or MOT their cars or indeed even gained a valid driving licence.”

However, car insurance can be confusing and not all uninsured motorists are intentionally breaking the law as some drivers unknowingly take out the wrong level of insurance cover. To help alleviate these problems GEM has looked at some of the myths and facts when it comes to insurance.

Top Insurance Misconceptions:
Myth: You’re automatically insured to drive other cars if you have a comprehensive policy.
Truth: This is not always the case, as it can depend on your age or occupation. It is always best to check your policy beforehand.

Myth: You’re fully covered with a comprehensive policy if you have an accident whilst driving another person’s car.

Truth: A comprehensive policy will often only cover the damage to the car or object you hit, not the damage to the car you are driving. Always check the level of insurance your policy provides.

Myth: Third-party cover is cheaper than comprehensive.

Truth: Not true. Some insurers have raised rates for third-party because of the number of high-risk drivers who apply.

Myth: Non-fault claims won’t affect your insurance premium.

Truth: Even if you didn’t cause the accident, your premium can still rise.

Myth: You don’t need to inform your insurance company if you have less than six points on your licence.

Truth: All points have to be declared, even for previous offences, regardless of how long ago.

Myth: You’re always guaranteed a courtesy car if you have an accident

Truth: Not true. These are normally subject to availability, and in most cases only offered if your car is repairable and taken to the insurer’s approved repairer.

David Williams concludes, “Safety is our top priority for UK drivers and we hope that motorists will listen to our advice and realise the importance of taking out adequate insurance, especially when it comes to being covered to drive other people’s cars.”

For more information and safety advice including driving hints and tips please visit the GEM Motoring Assist website (www.motoringassist.com). GEM also provides three levels of breakdown services to suit all needs and pockets.