6 Craziest Things Found in Used Cars

Of all the ups and downs that go with the used car market, one of the craziest things buyers and dealers have to put up with is the things people leave behind. Whether youre buying a used car at a market, a local dealership, or through the want ads, chances are you might find something left behind. Here are some wacky examples provided by buyers.

1. Vermin

 
One dealer tells a story of a great car he bought at a sale, one that was worth a lot of money. But every other dealer had passed it up, despite the value, because it had a strong, shall we say, ODOR about it. Turns out, the owner had left the window slightly cracked, just enough for a bird to get in, but not enough so it could find its way out again. The bird perished under the drivers seat, and the corpse created the awful smell in the car. The dealer removed the bird and paid someone to drive the vehicle back to his dealership but notes that when they stopped for lunch, this particular driver didnt have much of an appetite.

Rats are another common squatter in cars and sometimes, not even in abandoned ones. They like to make nests in dark places out of, among other things, paperso a glove compartment fits their needs quite nicely. Its a common story to hear of people finding a nest, and sometimes a litter of rats, in their glove compartment.

2. Drugs and Alcohol

 
The most common story heard from dealers is about finding joints or bags of marijuana tucked into various nooks and crannies of a car. One dealer thought one was a discarded gum wrapper until an associate asked, Did you want to keep that? and then took it for himself! Another story involved a sale of a car in the edge of the Appalachian mountains, where the buyer found a half-gallon jar full of homemade moonshine in the back seat.

3. Weapons

 
Theres a funny story on an internet message board about this topic, where the buyer found a .38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver between the seats, engraved with the name of the owner of the dealershipwho was likely pleased to get it back. Another user on the same thread tells about finding a rifle with telescopic sights welded on; perhaps the previous owner of his car was a bit of a stalker! In addition to guns, people report also finding knives of all shapes and sizes.

4. Romantic or Not Momentos

 
Another car buyer talks about finding a marriage license that got stuck behind the dash pad of a Corvette he bought. Even though the license was seven years old, he looked up the mans name in the phone book and gave him a call. Unfortunately the couple was already in the middle of a divorce, but he returned the license anyway.

Another story involves a man who found a Dear John letter from a woman breaking off her engagement. The diamond engagement ring was enclosed, and the letter concluded with You can do what you please with the enclosed. The buyer presumed that the fiance was pleased to pass the diamond on to the cars new owner.

5. Body Parts

 
Imagine buying a car and finding a severed finger under the floormat! Unlike the dead animals, this one didnt create a smell, as it was old and fairly dried up. The car had previously been in a wreck, but no one knows if thats what caused the person to lose their finger or not. The county coroners office picked up the severed finger from the new owner.

6. Cash and Jewelry

 
One used car dealer found a bag stuffed full of cash in the glove compartment. Unfortunately, the contents turned out to be all one-dollar bills, wadded into a pile and totalling about $40. That didnt add up to much but a few years later, the same dealer found a diamond watch in another car, which helped supplement his income quite a bit!

All in all, if you buy a used car, you may not find anything extraordinary; chances are that the previous owner will have cleaned it out, if not cleaned it up. But you never knowkeep your eyes (and nose!) peeled and you never know what you might turn up.

Tips To Get Your Car To Use Less Gas

Gas prices seem to be raising everyday, and the option of cycling fifty miles to work everyday is appearing more and more appealing. Most people have been forced to wave a sad goodbye to family road trips and all other fun car-related activities, because they just cannot afford it. However, what if there was a way to get your car to use less fuel, without having to get a new expensive hybrid?

Well there is a way, and it is not too hard to make your car more fuel-efficient. Just follow these simple steps and you will be amazed at how much more you will be able to get from your car for less fuel.
 

1. Less aggressiveness please

It may feel fun and you may think you are getting to your destination faster by speeding, but not only is this dangerous and illegal; it greatly increases your fuel consumption thus, reducing your fuel economy.  Research has shown that most cars are at the peak of their fuel efficiency when being driven at 55 miles per hour.

Any faster and you begin to waste. A recent study on the Toyota Camry showed a speed increase up to 65mph from 55mph resulting in a drop in fuel economy by up to 5mpg (miles per gallon).

Rapid acceleration and sudden braking will also not do you much good. It can lower your fuel economy by up to 33%. Get your foot off the gas peddle and set your car on cruise control the next time you hit the freeway for a long journey; you will be surprised by how much fuel you will be able to save by just allowing your car to be.
 

2. Get some clean air in there

You might not have known this, but there is a very big connection between your air filter and your fuel economy.  The air filter is essentially designed to keep particles such as dirt and other materials from getting into the engine’s cylinders as they can cause massive havoc in there, resulting in lower engine performance.

Simply replacing a clogged filter and thus avoiding these particle problems has been proved to help you save on your gas mileage by 10%. Considering it would only cost you, about $20 to do yourself, this is an investment well worth your while.
 

3. Inflate your tires right

Having your tires inflated to the proper level should save you about 12 cents per gallon of fuel.  It is recommended that you do a check on your car’s tire pressure once every month at least.

Wait until your car has not been used for at least 1 hour and the tires are cool then check the tire pressure. You should find a sticker at the driver’s door, which will specify the correct pressure needed for your vehicle’s tires.

4. Oil matters

You need to get the right oil, not only to ensure your engine remains in tip top shape but also because using the specified oil in your engine can enhance your fuel efficiency by up to 3%.

Never use oil of a lower density than that which has been specified by the car manufacturers as this can damage the engine. You can find out the right type of oil to use by checking out the manual or the gas cap if the car is a newer model.

An oil change as frequently as specified by the manufacturer is also essential to keep things flowing smoothly, resulting into optimum engine performance and thus optimum fuel efficiency.
 

5. Shed off the extra weight

Stop wasting gas by hauling along unnecessary stuff in the trunk of your car.  Every extra 100 pounds that you carry, has been proven to reduce your fuel economy by up to 2%. Simply ease off the load, this includes anything being carried on the roof rack, you could save up to 8 cents on every gallon.

What Defensive Steps can be Taken to Mitigate the Risk of an Accident?

It is almost a given that everyone will be involved in some sort of car accident if they’ve been driving for any period of time. These incidents can be as minor as a fender bender or as major as a twenty car pileup, but hopefully most people only experience the former. It is important to be a safe driver while out on the road to prevent these accidents, but learning to drive defensively will also go a long way in avoiding these occurrences. By following just a few simple rules, all drivers can mitigate their risk of experiencing any type of automobile crash.

Avoid any Distractions

The first step to driving defensively is avoiding any distractions. It is hard for a person to pay attention to what is going on around them and react effectively if they are concentrating on anything other than their own driving. Around two-thirds of car and light truck accidents are caused by driving fatigued, speeding and inattentiveness, so it is imperative for a person to focus all of their attention on the task at hand.

Cell phones are one of the most common distractions a person can engage in. People who are using the texting feature of their phone have been found to be just as likely to have an accident as a person who is drunk behind the wheel. Avoiding using a cell phone altogether while driving is the best advice a person can take. It’s also pertinent to avoid eating, drinking and rummaging for things in the back seat.

Notice Warning Signs

Noticing when others are distracted or even intoxicated behind the wheel is vital in maintaining safety and avoiding accidents. Drivers who are swerving or straddling lanes are either not paying attention to their driving or inebriated, and it is important to avoid either of these two types of drivers. An individual should keep a safe distance behind these vehicles if the neglectful drivers are in front of them, and they should never try to pass them.

Drunk drivers will sometimes use people in front of them as a guide to stay on the road. If it becomes obvious that a driver behind someone is likely intoxicated, then it is a good idea to pull into a parking lot or onto a side road to allow the possibly inebriated driver to pass. It is also possible to tell if a driver is intoxicated if they are going too fast or slow for conditions, making excessively wide or sharp turns or applying their brakes at inappropriate times (ie. green lights).

Stay Visible

Most drivers don’t purposefully sideswipe or rear end other vehicles; these accidents are often caused because that driver didn’t see the other vehicle or know what its driver was doing. This can usually be avoided by ensuring that all headlights and brake lights are working correctly. Properly working brake lights are easily one of the most important factors in avoiding a rear end collision.

Working lights, however, are not the only way drivers need to stay visible. It is also pertinent for an individual to engage in behaviors that will make sure they are noticed by other drivers. Always using turn signals is an easy way to accomplish this. It is also a good idea to avoid staying in another driver’s blind spot. Being one lane over and slightly behind another car likely puts a person in a blind spot, so that driver should either speed up or slow down to remove themselves from that area.

Adapt for Varying Road Conditions

A great number of people are surprised when they receive speeding tickets even when they were not exceeding the posted speed limit. These citations are often referred to as ‘driving too fast for conditions’. It doesn’t matter that a driver is under the posted speed limit if that limit is unsafe for driving at the time. This law exists because it is important to adjust to different road conditions.

One mistake that many people make is not slowing down when it begins to rain. Most people don’t realize that even a light sprinkle can make a road excessively slick due to the oil that accumulates on the asphalt. Other drivers may not adapt their driving for specific conditions, so it is also important for a driver to be even more alert to what’s going on around them if inclement weather or some other road hazard has occurred. This will increase the amount of time a person has to react if something unexpected suddenly occurs.

Engaging in defensive driving techniques is one of the best ways that a person can protect themselves and lessen their chances of being involved in an accident. Most people out on the roads today haven’t taken the time to read online articles on how to drive safely and defensively, so they are far more likely to engage in behaviors that can sometimes lead to serious tragedies. Knowing just a few defensive driving tactics will allow an individual to avoid and react to these dangerous drivers.

The World of Company Cars

Times are not as easy as they once were.  The current economic climate has caused many individuals and companies to cut their cloth accordingly and costs with it.  One of the first things that companies have cut – also doing so under the green pretext that many are working with nowadays – is the company car.  If you still have to take out clients, drive to and from work or make business trips, you’re going to have to get yourself your very own business car.  So what do you need to look out for?  What is going to make your life easier, keep your wallet heavy and still be smart enough that you can ferry clients around within?

Comfort
You are going to be in this car a lot, especially if you make a lot of business trips.  Remember, too, that you have to get back behind the wheel on weekends and holidays too – this will be your family car as well as your company car.  It has to be comfortable, therefore.  Not everyone has the same taste in comfort, however, so make sure you test out each and every car before you buy.  Do you prefer harder seats?  Does it have air conditioning or a CD auto-changer?  Whatever home comforts you feel you need, make sure that the car you’re going to buy has it: you’re going to be using it enough in all likelihood.  Not only do you have to think about yourself, but how about your family too?  Do you have young children that need ferrying around or how about a dog?  As this car is not just for the week, you need to make sure it is comfortable for everyone in every occasion: it should be versatile and easy to convert.

This car will need to be comfortable for everyone as it needs to look and feel good enough for your customers.  It’s no good just pleasing your family if your next client gets in the car and turns his nose up.  No, it’s very important to make sure that whoever gets in the car will feel at home and be able to relax.  Some of the best cars for this are modern saloons and estates.  With folding seats and comfortable upholstery, these cars allow you to transform them from a family car into a work saloon quickly and easily.  You can ferry Mr. Adams to the airport before driving to pick little Molly up from school without batting an eyelid.

Cost Efficient

As a company car, you’re going to be using this vehicle to commute to work every day.  Not only that, but you’re going to use it at weekends too, to take your children out or to drive to the country, while the car will also need to go on holiday too.  All of this points to fuel efficiency.  Some companies still offer a percentage of your petrol bill for your work related trips but most will not do so for your commutes.  Not only does the car have to cost little to run, but as you’re buying it yourself, it should be relatively cheap to purchase too.   Luckily, if you’re purchasing yourself, you may have more leeway in what you can buy than your company allowed you.  One possibility is to go second hand.  With second hand cars, they will often come cheaper but have higher running costs – the older they are the more problems they’re likely to have.

So it’s a good idea to research not only the reliability of the car – it’s no good buying a cheap Alfa Romeo if it’s going to break down every ten minutes – but the cost of spare parts and the like.  Sometimes, you will be able to pick up cheaper parts on certain cars as, remember, you have to look after all the maintenance yourself.

Parking Doesnt Have to Be a Hassle

Parking is one of those things that stresses out just about everyone. It always seems like just when you are running late and in what feels like the biggest hurry of your life, you are unable to find parking. Without parking, you are stuck in your car driving around in circles for what feels like hours. Did you know on average it takes people between about 5 and 14 minutes to find a single parking space? With that kind of time being wasted on a regular basis, its no wonder people are stressing out over parking and choosing other options such as buses and taxis to get around. That money can add up pretty quickly and thats why we thought it was about time that we let you in on a few of the best ways to make parking much easier for yourself. Its great knowing you have so many options because at the end of the day, one thing you can never get back is your time.

Real-Time Parking Information and Directions

Can you imagine how amazing it would be to know exactly where parking is at all times so you dont have to drive around like a chicken with your head cut off? Well, we are proud to announce that many cities are actually incorporating wonderful systems into their roads and parking spaces that do just that. This means, much less time and gas wasted and there is much less traffic being caused. With the estimates as to just how long it takes for a single person to find a parking spot that we mentioned above, you can imagine just how much of a difference smarter parking can make.

You may be wondering how cities are able to track parking spots and send you the information (via signs that direct you where to go) and its actually quite simple. Basically, weight sensors are placed into each parking space and the data is sent to a control center. While this technology isnt exactly cheap, its something that more cities are adding all of the time to make parking easier than ever before.

Applications That Help You Find Parking

While the technology we listed above is exciting, there are even easier ways to track parking and do so before you even arrive to the area. There are many applications these days that not only track parking spaces in the area but are literally updated in real-time. This is fantastic because you are never going to have to wonder whether or not you are going to be able to find parking. The less time you have to waste driving around in circles, the more time you are going to have to get to where you are going. These apps have definitely made parking much less stressful for us.

Pay For Your Parking Space Before You Arrive

Some of the applications we have listed above are also able to help you reserve your parking spaces before you arrive to your destination. With this option, you can find and pay for parking before you even leave the house. This means you are going to never have to wonder where that perfect parking space is and your entire experience is going to change. We love everything these apps can do because parking has always been one of those things that we dread the most; especially when it comes to airports. There are just always so many people driving around, completely lost and confused and we dont want to be those people anymore.

Payment Locations at the Parking Garage Entry

Have you ever noticed that it can take quite a long time to pay for your parking once you are leaving parking garages? This is something we never understood because you waste so much time sitting there in a long line that never seems to end. Because of this, many parking garages actually make you pay before your return to your car. Sure, you may need to stand in line but thats much better and easier than being forced to stay in your car longer than you have to.

Cars Can Actually Help You Park Like Never Before

Cars are fantastic these days. They are able to do all sorts of things for us that just werent possible in the past. One of our favorite features would have to be the help when it comes to parking. Not only do some cars have cameras behind them so you never have to wonder whether or not the coast is clear but some are actually capable of doing all of the work for you. Parking has never been easier and we are excited to see what else is in store for us in the future. Safety is becoming easier to find.

Nine Ways to Add Years to your Car Life

Should you be worrying that your car is getting on a bit or you’ve simply recently purchased a new car and want to keep it in top condition, there are a number of easy steps that you can take. Each one only takes a few minutes/dollars at a time but could easily save you thousands in the long run.

Only Use Quality Fuel

While discounted gas may save you money in the short term, over the long run cutting corners in fuel quality will reduce the lifespan of your car. Many discount chains such as Costco can afford to offer such big discounts as they are selling dated fuel. Such fuel is significantly more likely to contain sludge which leads to nasty engine blockages.

Wash Your Car During Winter

Many car owners don’t bother to wash their car during the Winter as the generally lousy weather tends to cause that newly washed look to barely last the journey home. The fact is however that washing your car is not only about aesthetics, it is also about getting sand and debris off of your car before it can cause serious damage. The fact that Winter leads to more road debris is actually a reason to wash it more rather than less often.

Don’t Ignore Your Cooling System

While oil and water levels are generally looked after by almost all drivers, your engines cooling system is equally important and at times forgotten. Regular checks are essential together with frequent coolant top ups. And while many drivers happily use water or coolant alone, doing so will damage your cooling system over time. If you want your cooling system to last, the correct ratio of fifty percent coolant and fifty percent water should be used.

Follow Your Maintenance Schedule

Most cars come complete with a maintenance schedule including particular checks that should be performed at various mileage milestones. Many car owners don’t bother following them however. Not only will keeping to your cars maintenance schedule make your car last longer, it is also likely to save you significant time and money in terms of visits to your local mechanic.

Break Your Car in Gently

The first thousand miles of any cars life are highly significant as it is at this point that the engine is at its most fragile. Wherever possible stay below sixty miles per hour and switch the engine off rather than leaving it idle for long periods of time. Putting too much pressure on your cars engine during the first one thousand miles may not show any immediate damage but over the long run, it’ll become all too apparent.

Check Your Car Every Time You Fill Up
Spending two minutes doing important checks every other time you fill up the tank can add years to a cars life. A quick check of the tyres, a quick wipe of the battery with a damp cloth and a brief look over the engine as a whole will have you going again in no time but it can make all the difference, particularly if you spot a problem that would otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Look After Your Tyres

While regularly keeping your tires in optimum condition and changing them when needed is well known to be important when it comes to fuel efficiency, it is also important to the overall health of your car. Driving with poor tyres lowers the life of your suspension, transmission and even your engine.

Find a Mechanic That You Trust

While you can visit almost any doctor and get the same quality of care, the same can sadly not be said about mechanics. And while most people are aware of the potential increased costs incurred by visiting a dishonest mechanic, a lazy mechanic who fails to spot potential problems before they happen can cost you even more.

Drive Smarter

Finally, drive with caution. Not only are you less likely to have an accident which would render all of these points pointless but driving aggressively lowers your cars lifespan significantly. In particular, avoid the following:

• Never race your engine during start up.
• Shift to neutral while at red lights.
• Avoid high speeds and/or rapid acceleration during extreme weather conditions, both hot and cold.
• Avoid potholes while driving and curbs while parking.
• Don’t hold your steering wheel in the extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds at a time.
• Remember that the most damage to your engine occurs during the first ten minutes of any journey.

In conclusion, most of the tips in this list are very much common sense. The key to a longer lasting car is all about preventing damage occurring before it happens. And while many of these tips will cost money in the short term, over the long run the savings are significant.

UK Driving Licenses: What Can I Drive?

The UK operates a rather confusing and jargon-filled road vehicle categorisation system that can be rather hellish for new motorists, visitors and professional drivers to decipher. There are plenty of reasons why a person may be interested in just what they’re entitled to drive: a young person who wants to gain some freedom may wonder what they can drive soonest, or how quickly they can access the bikes or cars they really want to drive. Others may wonder if they can drive a minibus for a voluntary event, or what they’ll have to do to move into a certain line of work. This article aims to simplify the information out there, to be useful to these groups.

Mopeds – Category P

British people who want to get on the road as soon as possible find that their earliest opportunity comes in the form of a 50 cc, speed limited Moped. It may not be glamorous (outside of continental Europe, anyhow), but the 16 year old suddenly granted the freedom to ride anywhere they want with (relative) speed has little to complain about. Moped riders have to attend a compulsory basic training (CBT) course to validate a provisional moped license: thereafter, you can ride with L-plates, but without going on motorways and passengers. Full licenses require a theory and practical driving test. Anyone with a full car license must still attend a CBT course to validate mopeds.
 

Motorcycles – Category A

Either as a cheap way to get around, or a rather more showy way, the British driver can legally ride a motorcycle from the age of 17 upwards. A compulsory basic training (CBT) course must be taken – in fact, if you take it on a moped before 17, you’re automatically entitled to ride a Motorcycle on your provisional license once you reach 17. Full motorcycle licenses are granted on completion of a theory and practical test, however the bike you ride on during the test will restrict the bikes you’re qualified to ride.

If tested on a bike between 120cc and 125cc, you will qualify for a standard rather than light license. For two years after qualifying, (or until the age of 21) you will be restricted from riding large motorcycles (over 25kW / 33bhp). Large motorcycles additionally require completion of the large motorcycle Direct Access Scheme.
 

Cars and Light Vans – Category B

The minimum age for driving a car or light van is 17, with provisional licenses issued first and full licenses issued after passing a driving and theory test. Cars and light vans have a maximum authorised mass (MAM) of 3,500kg. Full category B licenses also entitle drivers to tow a trailer weighing up to 750kg (or if over 750kg the weight of vehicle and trailer not exceeding 3,500kg). If a test is taken in an automatic, the license holder will only be able entitled to drive an automatic. Anyone receiving Disability Living Allowance “at the higher rate” is entitled to drive from age 16.
 

Medium and Large sized vehicles – Category C1 and C
Medium sized vehicles weigh between 3,500kg and 7,500 kg (C1). Large sized vehicles are any vehicle over 3,500kg (C): the overlap allows for younger drivers to legally drive lower weighted vehicles without holding a comprehensive large vehicle license. Both separately require tests to be taken in suitable vehicles. The minimum age for C1 driving is 18, whereas C driving is 21.
 

Minibuses and Buses – Category D1 and D

Vehicles with between nine and sixteen passenger seats are classed as minibuses (D1 license). A more comprehensive bus license (D) for vehicles with nine passenger seats and over is also obtainable. Drivers must be 21 or over, and must take a practical test in a relevant vehicle.

Holders of B license vehicles may be entitled to drive minibus sized vehicle of 3.5 tonnes (used for social purposes by a non commercial body) if: aged 21, having held a category B license for at least 2 years and  driving on a voluntary basis.
 

Other categories

Licenses must be issued and tests taken for the following vehicles : Agricultural vehicles (F, 17), Road rollers (G, 21) Tracked vehicles (H, 21) and mowing machines (K, 16).
 

New Driving License Rules: January 2013

The above information will apply to every license issued before the 19th of January 2013 and will remain applicable for the rest of your driving life. However, the UK government is bringing in changes for everyone who learns to drive on or after this date. The main differences include:
 

1. New categories for mopeds, motorcycles and tricycles will be introduced

• Moped top-speeds are being reduced to 28mph (45km/h). A category for 25km/h mopeds is also being created;
• The automatic entitlement to graduate from 125cc motorcycles after two years will be scrapped – riders will have to take a test or possibly a 7 hour training course (though still after two years);
• A new category for midrange motorcycles (power output 35kW, power weigh ratio 0.2kW per kg) is being created, with the same two-year wait then test / training graduation to something even bigger;
• Direct access to the largest motorcycles can only be gained by riders 24 years or over.

2. Two new categories of license are to be introduced for small vehicles towing trailers: one for 750kg+ trailers where trailer and vehicle weight exceed 3,500kg, and another for trailers which weigh more than 3,500 kg;

3. The minimum age for driving a category D vehicle (i.e. a Bus) is increasing to 24 (though there are many ways of bringing down this age by taking additional tests or being in certain professions).

4. Large vehicles and Bus licenses will only be valid for five years with renewals required every five years – under the age of 45, drivers need only submit a written declaration that they meet medical standards. Over 45 and they will need to provide a medical examination report proving it;

5. A new driver’s license card design will accompany the changes.

Could This Be The Year The Electric Car Takes Over The World?

In the future, you might just find the next car you purchase will have an electric engine. With technology constantly progressing its only a matter of time before it overtakes the gas engine. Youre probably breathing a sigh of relief now as a lot of your wages will be going on filling up the tank. Can you imagine how much it will improve our environment? Soon you will be able to breathe in clean air as you drive to work using your electric engine, plus save a ton of money.

Have we wasted a hundred years?

Right at the beginning of the 20th century electric cars were becoming a lot more popular. A sixth of all cars were in fact electric. People liked them because they were a lot cleaner and quieter than gas cars. They were also a lot more efficient, but they did have their problems.

They broke pretty easily. People didnt like this. The battery was heavy and expensive. The thing that irritated people the most was the fact they couldnt drive long distances and they were very slow. We were entering a time where you needed to drive further than two miles down the road.

People wanted them for long distances and they were unable to match expectations. Speed was also an issue. If people had the choice between fast and slow cars they were always going to go for the speed. Scientists tried to fix the problems with the electric cars, but to no avail. Eventually they fell away and gas engine cars became what they are today.

One hundred years later

Around the start of the 21st century the Japanese car manufacturer, Toyota, released the worlds first mass produced hybrid car. The Prius would go on to sell 18,000 cars within the first year of production. This was a huge step in the right direction. A hybrid car is a cross between a gas car and an electric one. It combines the two sources of power.

This isnt perfect, but it was something. Soon all the big manufacturers would begin releasing their own hybrid cars over the next few years. These were all released on lease so not much was sold. They all had the bright idea to cancel their 100% electric programs because they thought they found the next big thing. Were they right? They thought they were.

Soon to take over the world

Now you have the Tesla Model S, the electric car that could soon take over the world. The future is definitely going to be the electric car and its just a matter of time before we can all afford one. But for now you will have to shell out over $50,000 for one of these beauties. The amount of capabilities is nothing short of extraordinary.

It can reach speeds of over 60mph in under 4.4 seconds, all while being completely silent. If youre worried about long journeys you shouldt be. You can travel 300 miles between charges, and do you know how much a single charge should cost you? About $10. For the money youd save in gas you will make back the price of the car in no time. Id start saving.

Kia Sets Guinness World Record

Is it impossible for a hybrid gas/electric car to go cross country without either using regular gas, or not using gas all the way? Most people would say yes. However, in 2011 Kia Motors set out to prove everyone wrong-and they did. They set a Guinness World Record for the lowest gas consumption in a hybrid vehicle driving across 48 states. Two hypermilers, Wayne Gerdes and Chris Bernius were the actual passengers in the car, complete with luggage. They set out from the Kia factory in West Point, Georgia using a Kia Optima hybrid sedan and drove about 7,899 miles through the lower 48 states using only five full tanks of gas, ending up in South Carolina. They ended up at 64.55 miles per gallon, beating the cars EPA standard by 61.37 percent. Thats quite an achievement. A representative of Guinness World Records was there to record what happened, and after a very thorough verification process, presented Gerdes and Bernius with their certificate at a ceremony at the Kia factory in West Point, Georgia on September 12, 2011. A hypermiler is a driver who strives to exceed a cars EPA standard gas milage. And he sure did exceed the Optimas EPA standard using simple driving techniques and not the driving techniques that the average person uses.

And it wasnt just driving on quiet country roads, either. Gerdes and Bernius had to drive through all kinds of challenging weather situations without outside support, from freezing cold to extremely hot temperatures. They also had to deal with stop and go rush hour traffic in Chicago, New York City and Las Vegas, Nevada. At all times, the Kia Optima hybrid sedan kept going without a hitch. And, considering the Kia Optima Hybrid is a full-fledged mid-sized sedan and not a small car or even a sub-compact small car, this achievement is even more impressive. The Kia Optima hybrid sedan was introduced to the public in late 2011 and has turned out to be a hit. The Optima hybrid not only has a standard electrical motor used in all hybrids, it also has a lithium polymer battery designed to aid the regular motor in lowering gas consumption. The driver can operate the car in either electric mode, gas mode or both, especially useful while driving up hill. For downhill driving, the Kia Optima automatically shuts off the gas motor and just relies on the electric motor, thus conserving gas. What is really impressive is that the driver is not sacrificing performance for gas conservation and ecological purposes. The Kia Optima hybrid model has just as much power as its gas-powered counterpart, and matches or exceeds the competitions models.

Hybrid technology is quickly becoming the standard for automobiles. Now that its been proven that a hybrid can travel the same distance as a gas-powered vehicle, its only a matter of time until hybrids become the new standard on the roads. As car technology advances, we might even see a full electric car doing the same thing. This is good news for everyone thIs it impossible for a hybrid gas/electric car to go cross country without either using regular gas, or not using gas all the way? Most people would say yes. However, in 2011 Kia Motors set out to prove everyone wrong-and they did. They set a Guinness World Record for the lowest gas consumption in a hybrid vehicle driving across 48 states. Two hypermilers, Wayne Gerdes and Chris Bernius were the actual passengers in the car, complete with luggage. They set out from the Kia factory in West Point, Georgia using a Kia Optima hybrid sedan and drove about 7,899 miles through the lower 48 states using only five full tanks of gas, ending up in South Carolina. They ended up at 64.55 miles per gallon, beating the cars EPA standard by 61.37 percent. Thats quite an achievement. A representative of Guinness World Records was there to record what happened, and after a very thorough verification process, presented Gerdes and Bernius with their certificate at a ceremony at the Kia factory in West Point, Georgia on September 12, 2011. A hypermiler is a driver who strives to exceed a cars EPA standard gas milage. And he sure did exceed the Optimas EPA standard using simple driving techniques and not the driving techniques that the average person uses.

And it wasnt just driving on quiet country roads, either. Gerdes and Bernius had to drive through all kinds of challenging weather situations without outside support, from freezing cold to extremely hot temperatures. They also had to deal with stop and go rush hour traffic in Chicago, New York City and Las Vegas, Nevada. At all times, the Kia Optima hybrid sedan kept going without a hitch. And, considering the Kia Optima Hybrid is a full-fledged mid-sized sedan and not a small car or even a sub-compact small car, this achievement is even more impressive. The Kia Optima hybrid sedan was introduced to the public in late 2011 and has turned out to be a hit. The Optima hybrid not only has a standard electrical motor used in all hybrids, it also has a lithium polymer battery designed to aid the regular motor in lowering gas consumption. The driver can operate the car in either electric mode, gas mode or both, especially useful while driving up hill. For downhill driving, the Kia Optima automatically shuts off the gas motor and just relies on the electric motor, thus conserving gas. What is really impressive is that the driver is not sacrificing performance for gas conservation and ecological purposes. The Kia Optima hybrid model has just as much power as its gas-powered counterpart, and matches or exceeds the competitions models.

Hybrid technology is quickly becoming the standard for automobiles. Now that its been proven that a hybrid can travel the same distance as a gas-powered vehicle, its only a matter of time until hybrids become the new standard on the roads. As car technology advances, we might even see a full electric car doing the same thing. This is good news for everyone the car industry, drivers and the environment. Keep an eye on this advancing technology as time goes on.

Almost 20% of Cars Fail MOT Due to Faulty Bulbs

Figures show that blown bulbs account for almost 20% of failures

Worn tyres account for a further 11%

New electronic display guidelines could increase fail rates

When you think about it, car maintenance really should be done regularly – but we are all guilty of leaving checks until the days before our MOT test is due! Ideally, car checks should be carried out on a weekly or monthly basis so any problems can be nipped in the bud, but sometimes checking to see that a bulb is still working doesn’t always cross our minds.

However, recent figures suggest that it should cross our minds more, since around 20% of cars fail an MOT due to a faulty bulb. Tyre problems also make up 11% of fails – that’s nearly one-third of cars failing an MOT due to problems that can be spotted simply by looking at the car.

Electronic Display Guidelines

New guidelines regarding a car’s electronic display have been effective since April 2012 and may have gone unnoticed, but can result in an instant fail – even if they are illuminated without reason. The main things to watch out for are:

• Headlight main beam warning light
• Brake fluid level warning light
• Tyre pressure monitoring system warning light
• Airbag warning light
• Electronic power steering warning light
• Seat belt pre-tensioner warning light

Easy MOT Checks

There are some really easy and quick checks that you can do to make sure that you give your car the best chance of passing the MOT, saving you time, money and worry:

1. Foot pedals – do the accelerator and foot brake feel spongy when pressed? Do they seem to spring up quickly when released?

2. Handbrake – check that the handbrake can be applied fully before reaching the end of its travel.

3. Steering wheel – check that the wheel and column do not have any cracks or damage, and that the wheel does not suffer from excessive play.

4. Lights – check that all exterior lights are working. Make sure to check all of the lights:

• Headlights
• Sidelights
• Indicators
• Brake lights
• Number plate lights
• Hazard lights – these are on a separate circuit to the indicators, so check these independently.
• Rear fog lights

5. Tyres and wheels – check that the tyre tread is above the legal requirement of 1.6mmaround the central 75% of the tyre. Check that the front tyres are the same size, and that the rear tyres are the same size but tyres can be different sizes between front and rear. Check that the wheels themselves are not damaged, and that there are no missing nuts. A spare tyre is exempt from the MOT.

6. Windscreen, washers and wipers – check that there are no chips or scratches bigger than 10mm in the driver’s line of sight (roughly the width of the steering wheel), or bigger than 40mm in the swept area of the windscreen. Check wiper blades along their entire length, and replace any that are worn or split. Washer jets should be working correctly – only front jets will be tested. If they are not working, try unblocking them with a pin. Top up the screenwash before the MOT so that the jets and wipers can be tested properly.

7. Bodywork – cosmetic rust won’t fail an MOT, but rust can cause an issue if it is in danger of weakening the car’s structure. Any projections from the car will be an automatic fail as they can be a danger to other road users or pedestrians – duct tape will get you through the MOT temporarily. Inside, seatbelts should not be worn or frayed, and fasten securely. Number plates must be visible, so you might want to consider washing the car before the MOT!

8. Mirrors – check that all mirrors are clean and undamaged. Mirror stickers over broken or cracked mirrors are acceptable, as long as they are secure.

9. Doors – ensure all doors open and close from inside and out. The boot must also close and fasten securely. It might be a good idea to clear your boot out before taking the car for its MOT.

Servicing

It is advisable to book your car in for a service regularly too. It’s not just a ploy by the manufacturers: regular servicing is really important to keep your car in top condition.

Top 10 Cars to Feature in Movies and Television

Some of the best cars to feature in movies and television often overshadow the film or program, making it difficult to remember beyond their sequences. From Mini Cooper S’s helping Michael Caine’s gang through a heist in Turin through to the voice automated KITT in Knightrider, the best cars are typically ones that have a distinct personality, or simply succeed in terms of their style.

Deciding on the best cars to feature in movies and television is consequently a difficult task, given the sheer amount of memorable scenes and vehicles featured. This list could probably be made up solely of James Bond cars. However, the following top ten list makes an effort to give a broad sense of some of the most memorable and loved cars to challenge their drivers for star status:

1. Mini Cooper S, The Italian Job

The original Mini Cooper S cemented its identity as a design classic by becoming the crucial vehicles used by Michael Caine and his gang in a Turin chase that forms part of the conclusion to the 1968 Italian Job. Such was the iconic appeal of the Cooper S that MINI threw a huge amount of marketing behind the use of the new MINI Cooper S for the film’s somewhat less iconic 2003 remake.

2. 1981 DeLorean DMC-12, Back to the Future

Winning points for style and personality, if not perhaps practicality, the DeLorean time machine from Back to the Future is arguably one of the most iconic movie images of the 1989s. With its futuristic metal finish and gull wing doors, the DeLorean may not have been quite the supercar in reality, but remains a treasured part of film history.

3. 1959 Cadillac Ecto-1, Ghostbusters
Another famous modification from the 1980s, the Cadillac Ecto-1 ambulance from Ghostbusters provided the basis for a lot of beloved toys. The car is still viewed as one of the most memorable images from the 1984 comedy horror hit.

4. 1958 Chevrolet Impala American Graffiti

George Lucas’s 1973 homage to the 1950s and early 1960s teenage America is partly defined by its use of hot rod racing, radio music and long drives through a small town. The 1958 Chevrolet Impala forms part of a series of classic cars in the film, and plays a significant role in one of the characters’ rite of passage.

5. Dodge Charger, Bullitt

The car of choice for Steve McQueen chasing villains, the Dodge Charger featured in the 1968 crime film as a counterpart to McQueen’s Mustang. Still closely associated with film and television criminal chases.

6. 1978 Ferrari 308 GTS Magnum PI

A key part of cop Tom Selleck’s appeal in the long running 1980s series Magnum PI, his 1978 Ferrari 308 GTS helped reinforce the car brand’s popularity. The series went through multiple GTS designs, but the 1978 Ferrari arguably represents the most iconic seen on the show.

7. 1975 Ford Gran Torino Starsky and Hutch

Stretching the definition of ‘undercover,’ the red and white 1975 Ford Gran Torino was an indelible part of Starsky and Hutch’s low budget, campy appeal for UK audiences in the 1970s, and is one of the most well recognised, and spoofed parts of 70s television culture.

8. 1982 Pontiac Trans Am, Knight Rider

While the actual 1982 Pontiac Trans Am did not necessarily feature a talking supercomputer, the car was still able to generate significant appeal for the David Hasselhoff starring action series.

9. 1969 Dodge Charger The Dukes of Hazzard

The General Lee represents one of the most coveted, and most dynamic cars of television history. Chasing down bad guys, or crashing through the wooden crates that seemed to be everywhere in 1970s cop shows, the Dodge Charger is perhaps the most memorable car in television history.

10. Batmobile, Batman, 1966

A 1955 Lincoln Futura Concept, hand crafted in Italy for $250,000, had been gathering dust before being converted into the Batmobile for the kitsch 1966 Batman series. The first inspiration for a series of Batmobiles that have gradually moved away from a toycar design to tanklike creations.

UK Driving Test What To Know?

Preparing for both the Theory and Practical driving exams is becoming increasingly expensive, time consuming and challenging. For many young people it will line up alongside their A-levels as the most stressful event in their teenage years.

You can apply for your provisional licence when you turn 16 ½ yrs of age, and can learn off road until you turn 17. For many teenagers this is an exciting time as learning to drive means a piece of freedom allowing them to travel, move further a field and possibly look for work outside of their home town.  For others the open road some awesome wheels to show off has been a childhood dream. Passing first time is often a bragging point and the youngest sibling will feel increased pressure if everyone else in the family breezed through the test.

When you come to booking driving lessons you should do plenty of research before selecting a firm to learn with as both the pass rate and the time taken to pass will vary significantly from school to school and from course to course. Ask them how they teach. You will be surprised how expensive those first few lessons will be when often very little ground is covered at all.  It may help to sit in a car before you first lesson to get a feel for the car and to get comfortable with the layout of the pedals.

Naturally you will not be able to actually drive the car until you have arranged your insurance. The cost of the lessons and insurance can also lead to stress, as not all teenagers will get help from parents and will need to fund it themselves. This will give some of them motivation to go out, find a job and save.

Currently the Theory test costs £31. The Practical Test is £62 for Weekday tests and £76 for Evenings, Weekends and bank holidays. Many will also take a one hour lesson before the exam (which is recommended) and then you have to pay for the use of the car for the exam which can start from £40. So in total you can look to spend a minimum of £133 for the exam alone.

A little history of the how the driving test began

The motor car was brought into England in 1895 when a traveller who originated from Brussels “The honourable Evelyn Ellis” arrived in France and ordered the Panhard-Levassour firm to make him a left hand drive motor car which he drove across England. In 1986 the motor car tour called the “Brighton Run” began and the speed limit was raised from 4 to 12 miles per hour. Ellis was one of the first Directors of the original Daimler Motor Company in Coventry; he was also a Chairman and founder of RAC.

The theory test has grown and become more challenging since it’s introduction. It currently begins with an onscreen multiple choice test, which you are allowed 57 minutes to complete, in this time you can review your answers and change them if you wish. The pass rate for the multiple choice test is currently 43/50. You can take practice tests online at driectgov.com.

The second part of your Theory is a Hazard Perception test, where you will be shown 14 clips showing developing hazards in every day road situations this means anything that may result in you having to take action.  For example a young child running close to the road, you should slow slightly in case the child falls or decides to run across the road without looking. The pass rate for this part of the test is 44/75. It’s also worth noting that whilst a formal eye test is not part of the driving test procedure or the theory exam you will need to be able to see well in order to drive. This is determined simply by your ability to see and read a number plate from a set distance while with your examiner. Failure to be able to complete this test in future could result in fines or disqualification from driving so it’s equally important to regularly attend your local optician once you’ve passed and are on the road.

The modern test centres across the UK are able to produce results immediately and once the test is complete you will be given the results at the main reception as well as your certificate.

In 1903 the first driving licence was introduced to the people of Britain under the “Motor Car Act 1903”. In 1934 the First driving test was taken on British roads and was made compulsory under the Road Traffic Act 1934. This meant anyone who started driving after April 1st 1934 were legally required to take a test.

The instructors were recruited from the services and Police. For obvious reasons the tests were suspended during World War II.  The tests were also suspended during the Suez Crisis in 1956 to save petrol.

As cars were not made with indicators learners had to know hand signals to show other users what they were about to do. In 1991 the Reverse parking became a compulsory test manoeuvre, and then in 1996 the Theory Test was introduced via pen and paper this put a stop to questions being asked on the practical test. Later in 2000 the Theory test went on to be a touch screen test via the computer, with instant results. Who knows what the future will hold but one can be sure that increased use of technology will make the test more and more challenging for youngsters contributing to ever increasing road safety perhaps at the expense of ever increasing stress.

The Top 10 Most Dangerous Cars

Some people think that government requirements and rules for vehicle safety have gone a bit overboard, but think where we would be without them. There have been some vehicles to hit the streets that should never have been allowed off the assembly line. Owning any of the following cars undoubtedly resulted in stress, frustration, many car repairs, or worse.

1. Darracq – 1905

Dangerous cars have been on the road for over 100 years, thanks in no small part to the 1905 Darracq. With 200 horsepower, this deathtrap set European and world speed records, all while the driver had virtually no protection. The passenger seat was located directly behind the driver and was like sitting in a bucket. It was positioned in this manner so the passenger could grab hold of the driver when the vehicle flew around corners. This thing would have been safer with an ejection seat.

2. Chery Amulet

The Amulet was introduced by the Chinese in 2003 and it leads you to wonder how such an intelligent culture can be so clueless about safety. Chery is the Chinese equivalent to General Motors and the Amulet is being sold in many Asian countries, even though the vehicle couldn’t even achieve a 1-star safety rating. The crash test performed by the Russian Autoreview magazine resulted in the dummy being extricated in pieces. The Brilliance, Chery’s larger vehicle, is being peddled to the American market. Not surprisingly, the company is having trouble meeting American safety standards.

3. Kia Rio

This vehicle can still be seen on the roads and highways of our nation. Many experts question how it was allowed to hit the market in the first place, since safety tests showed that it fared poorly in rear impact, side impact, and multiple vehicle impact tests.

4. Yugo GV – 1985

Driving a Yugo was like sitting inside a paper bag. If someone leans on the side of the car, it might flip over. It was built with inferior material and rattled so much on the road that you could barely hear the person sitting next to you. Being passed by a tractor-trailer was like being sucked into a black hole.

5. Suzuki Samurai

The sporty Samurai was popular for a while, looking like a wimpy version of a Jeep, but it quickly fell from grace. Rumors spread that the vehicle was highly susceptible to rollover accidents and the Samurai disappeared from the market after less than ten years on the road.

6. Peel Trident

The Trident is proof that smaller doesn’t necessarily mean safer. The Peel Trident was on the road for exactly one year; 1966, and this tiny 2-seat vehicle offered virtually nothing in the way of protection.

7. Chevrolet Corvette

There is no denying the unrivaled beauty and performance of the Chevrolet Corvette. It is for those who love the exhilarating thrill of being able to maneuver in and out of traffic at breakneck speed.  However, the death rate associated with the Corvette is hard to ignore, and may have you considering a less exciting vehicle. Whether the death rate is directly tied to how people drive Corvettes is another story entirely.

8. Ford Pinto 

The Pinto was the car to have in the 1970s. Its popularity quickly came to a crashing end when folks started to realize that it folded up like a newspaper when hit from behind.

9. Chevrolet Corvair

This was as popular as the Pinto, yet nearly a decade earlier. The demise of this vehicle was due in large part to a book that laid out its many downfalls. For starters, it didn’t have a stabilizer bar, which was perhaps its biggest drawback.

10. Audi 5000

The Audi 5000 was popular for many years, and its frame was copied and used for many other car models. Sadly, what was underneath the hood didn’t match up with its impressive appearance. During one media event to promote the latest model, the car accelerated when the brake was pressed, and thus ended the popularity of the 5000.

If you do a few searches for the 10 most dangerous cars of all-time, you will probably find that every list is different. No list is right or wrong, and there are dozens of other vehicles that could have been added to this list. Regardless of which type of car you own, you can do your part to make sure it runs at its optimal performance.