Choosing the Best Radar Detectors for Your Motorcycle

by: Nicola Kennedy

Because of the legal/illegal status of radar detectors in the US market many different models with different functions from different brands have emerged onto the market.
Some of these radar detectors are the following:

• Radar Screamer. This unit provides immediate warning in order to get the attention of the driver. This enhances the audio warning which is produced by many radar detectors to allow the motorcycle rider to better hear the warning while at constant speed. This is a water proof device and does not depend on any replaceable batteries.

• Escort 8500 X50. This is known to be the one of best radar detectors in the market. It offers advanced digital signal processing which can be reprogrammed and will also allow you to customize your detector. This unit can be upgraded. It has a very clever auto sensitivity mode, which automatically lessens false alarms.

• HARD (Helmet Assisted Radar Detection). This unit provides an urgent visual alert. The warning can be find inside the helmet, lighting up within your field of vision which allows the immediate awareness of the radar. This is designed as an accessory to all the leading radar detectors, especially designed for motorcycling.

• Bel RX65. This is a the fast response device, featuring 'Threat Display' which tracks multiple radar signals and their relative signal strength. This allows you to customize up to 7 options for your specific driving style. Beltronics state that this is their most advanced radar, laser and safety detector.

• Cobra XRS9700 Radar Detector. This model is equipped with many features including the 11-Band technology and the SmartMute. This offers three levels of false signal controls which lessen false alerts.

• PNI Sensor Traveler II Radar Detector. This is one of the most advanced and user friendly radar detector sold nowadays. This featured bilingual voice alerts - English and Spanish. The PNI Sensor is convenient to use because of it is a cordless device.

• Whistler Pro 1730. This features a voice alert and optional mute.

• Rocky Mountain Radar RMR-D230. This automatically adjusts the laser background noise which lessens false alarms. This increases the typical scanning process by a factor of three which enables the D230 to catch even Instant-On and POP radar.

• Escort Solo II. This features the following:

1. Convenient cordless design uses
2. Uses 2 AA batteries, this maximizes the battery life
3. AutoSensitivity mode virtually eliminates false alarms
4. Long-range protection on all radar bands
5. VG-2 Protection
6. 10 user programmable features
7. High resolution graphic LCD display
8. Built-in earphone jack

Most of these radar detectors belong on the top seller lists because of high performance. So, if you have decided to buy a radar detector, you can choose confidently from the above list. But please, before you purchase, check if the use of radar detectors is legal in your states.

About The Author

Nicola Kennedy publishes articles and reports and provides news, views and information about radar detectors for motorcyclists and safe driving at http://www.radar-detecting.info/.
This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and the live links are included intact. All rights reserved. Copyright Radar-Detecting.info.

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FWD vs. RWD. Which is better?

by: Peter Johnson

There is an endless debate on automotive forums throughout the internet. Which is better; Front Wheel Drive (FWD) or Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)? Let's look at each.

Front Wheel Drive

Around since the 1920's, front wheel drive didn't catch on with American consumers until the gas crisis in the 1970's. As Americans struggled against high fuel prices, automakers began to seek new ways to increase fuel efficiency. The best way of course was to reduce the size (and thus the weight) of most vehicles. As Detroit aimed to make cars smaller, they needed a more efficient layout that would yield more interior room in a smaller package. Front wheel drive was the solution. By placing the engine and transaxle in the front, there is no large transmission housing or driveshaft tunnel running through the passenger compartment. In addition, engines were positioned transversely to reduce the size of the engine bay. And there was another advantage as well. With 60% of its weight at the front, 40% at the back, fwd holds an advantage in slippery conditions such as ice or snow as more weight is over the drive wheels reducing slip during acceleration. But most of the advantages end there. As most of the weight in up front, a fwd car is not as well balanced therefore it doesn't handle quite as well. Also, as vehicles continue to become more powerful, front wheel drive becomes more of a liability. Torque steer (when the steering wheel pulls to one side during acceleration) is a serious issue with many front wheel drive cars that exceed 250hp. As such, we've seen a resurgence in the popularity of rear wheel drive in more powerful vehicles.

Rear Wheel Drive

Prior to the fuel crises in the 1970's, rear wheel drive was king. Just about every vehicle, from economy to luxury, came with rear wheel drive. The shift from rear wheel drive to front took about a decade. Since the mid eighties, just about every economy car, family sedan, minivan and even many sport coupes came with front wheel drive. Luxury marks such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz continued on with rear wheel drive but Cadillac eventually moved every vehicle to front wheel drive. Once again, times have changed. Over the last few years we've seen more and more vehicles (re) introduce rear wheel drive. Why? Well, it simple. As cars become more powerful it is difficult to have one set of wheels doing the steering and the accelerating. By having the front wheels do the steering, and the rear wheels driving the car, you get a better-balanced vehicle. This eliminates torque steer and improves acceleration. Rear wheel drive offers better weight distribution (much closer to 50/50 than fwd), which in turn offers more predictable handling. Finally, with the advent of traction control and stability management systems, the front wheel drive advantage in slippery conditions has been significantly reduced. More and more rwd vehicles have the option of AWD as well. If nothing else, this is a great way for automakers to hedge their bets. Still, some consumers are skeptical of rear wheel drive. Perhaps they are the victims of clever marketing by Madison Ave. that tried to get people to accept fwd and forget all about the virtues rear wheel drive. They did a great job. Perhaps too good.

Today cars are more powerful yet yield better fuel economy. As such, we can look at fwd and rwd more objectively. Is one better than the other? Fwd still holds an advantage in terms of packaging efficiency, offering greater interior room in a smaller package. Rear wheel drive provides better handling and acceleration and with the addition of traction control, virtually eliminates the fwd advantage in the snow. In the end, it depends on what you want from your car. If it's performance, you're looking at rwd. If you're indifferent, perhaps looking for a small car with greater interior volume, it's front wheel drive for you. Over the last 20 years, technology has improved both layouts, reducing the advantages of fwd to a point where rwd is a viable option for most people. Ultimately, you've got more choice, and when more choice is offered we all win.

About The Author

Peter Johnson is the chief writer for http://www.all-about-car-selection.com.
pjohnson@all-about-car-selection.com

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Volkswagen Golf: 24 Million Built by 2005 and Still Counting

by: Tom Bailey

Another passenger family sedan has been released by the Volkswagen and it is the Volkswagen Golf. As of 2005, the statistics from Volkswagen say that there has been some 24 million Volkswagen Golfs already built, that is why the company claims that this vehicle is its best selling model in its entire history.

This vehicle has been produced in a couple of body styles. The list of body styles for the Volkswagen Golf include the hatchback with three doors, the hatchback with five doors, the estate station wagon, the sedan or saloon, and the convertible. Each of these body styles has had their own characteristics and their own features. The Volkswagen Golf has had various functions as well that ranges from being the very basic personal cars and transportation vehicles to high performance sports coupes.

If you do have $16,030, you can own a 2006 Volkswagen Golf. It is a vehicle that could take in some five passengers inside its spacious interior and cabin. Its trim levels range from the GL 2.0 sedan to the GLS 1.9 TDI. Upon its introduction, the GL 2.0 sedan has been crafted and marketed with the standard 2.0 liter I4 engine. This engine is very much capable of providing 115 units of horsepower and could make the Volkswagen Golf achieve 24 mpg for city driving and 31 for the highway. Standard for this vehicle trim is a five speed manual transmission system with overdrive and the four speed automatic transmission system with overdrive are given as an option. As per the GLS 1.9 TDI which is considered to be the trim level found at the higher end, this vehicle comes equipped with the standard 1.9 liter I4 engine that is turbocharged and is a diesel engine. It can produce 100 units of horsepower, making the Volkswagen Golf get 37 mpg for city driving and 44 mpg on the highway. For this trim level, the standard transmission system is a five speed manual with overdrive, and the optional one is a five speed automatic with overdrive.

http://www.samedaycarparts.com/ has all the Volkswagen parts and equipment that Volkswagen owners, followers, and aficionados are looking for. This online store holds top of the line Volkswagen car parts, Volkswagen auto body parts, Volkswagen accessories, and more. Same Day Car Parts also has top caliber parts and accessories for the various body styles and models that this vehicle brand has. Same Day Car Parts online collection of Volkswagen parts include used parts, accessories, body parts, engine parts, performance parts, and restoration parts among many others.

About The Author

Tom Bailey is a consultant for one of the country’s leading auto parts stores. He is also an editor of a reputable publishing company in his area. He is currently based in Atlantic City, New Jersey with his wife and 3 children.
Same Day Car Parts http://www.samedaycarparts.com/volkswagenaccessories.html
tom@samedaycarparts.com

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Illegal Street Racing: A Growing Problem

by: Peter Johnson

It's not an uncommon sight. Two vehicles line-up at a streetlight, one challenges the other, and once the green light appears they take off as fast as they know how. Illegal street racing is not a new thing. It's been going on ever since the days of the Model T Ford. Over the years, speeds have increased and with the advent of cell phones and GPS systems, so has the technology. But the consequences of these careless actions have never changed. Thousands of accidents occur each year due to thoughtless, aggressive driving on our streets. But the trend continues to grow. Movies like The Fast and The Furious have helped to spread the virtues of street racing. Movies like these don't show innocent victims getting hurt, but rather they portray the characters as misunderstood good guys who have a passion for cars. It's easy to see how young people are able to accept the notion that street racing doesn't hurt anyone when everything they see in movies confirms it. Videos of illegal street races are downloaded off the web at a growing rate only to fuel the desires of those who are unable to see the dangers in it.

Racing is not a bad thing. In fact, it's an exciting sport that requires training, discipline and skill. But the streets are no place for racing. Unfortunately, any young person (the majority are young) can get into their car, mash the throttle and drive. No experience, no talent, no discipline. All of this while innocent drivers use the streets for their day-to-day activities.

So what are the solutions. Racing on our streets will never stop, but it can be reduced. What needs to be understood is that street racing is a social activity. People gather in a parking lot, hang out with friends, challenge someone to a race, and come back to the same parking lot once the race is over. Some cities recognized this and have opened drag strips for people to race, socialize and interact. For a small fee, they can prove themselves in a safe, supervised environment. This is also a great way to integrate local police with the participants. In order to reduce racing on our streets, local authorities need to control it. Larger fines won't reduce street racing. Hundreds of people have died racing on the streets in this country and if the possibility of death doesn't stop someone, a fine won't either.

In the end we need to understand that the only way to reduce street racing is to provide an outlit for which it can occur. Until then, the masses will do what they know; they'll continue to race on our streets.

About The Author
Peter Johnson is the chief writer for http://www.all-about-car-selection.com.
pjohnson@all-about-car-selection.com

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Introducing the Dodge Caliber!

by: Matthew C. Keegan

The auto world is abuzz over a new car just recently released. The Dodge Caliber, a five door hatchback replacement for the popular Neon, has finally hit North American showrooms. The wait has been long especially since the last Neons were built for the 2005 model year. Still, judging by the press hoopla and by what the car has to offer, the pause certainly has been well worth it. Introducing, the 2007 Dodge Caliber!

Part of the buzz surrounding any new car introduction is all the speculation that comes with it. Pictures are released, performance information and specifications supplied, and in some cases the pending model hits the auto show circuit first to fuel additional interest. All of these points have rung true for the Caliber as the pre-release build up was percolating for a number of months. On a personal note, I was able to see a Caliber at a recent car show but I couldn’t get near it as there were too many people gawking ahead of me -- such was the interest in the new model. Nevertheless, there are some things about the Caliber worthy of a mention:

Rakish good looks – Dodge’s now famous crosshairs grille is the first thing you notice about the Caliber. Take a walk around the car and you will see that some of the same styling cues found in the Magnum were included with the Caliber.

Maximum driveability – Prior to the Caliber, to find an all wheel drive version of a car of this size meant that only a Subaru could deliver on that promise. Parent DaimlerChrysler, anticipating that the car would be a world seller, had the presence of mind to offer front wheel drive as standard with all wheel drive as an option.

New powerplants – For the first time, a new Chrysler product is available with three different engines. All gasoline powered, the engines range in size from a 1.8L fuel efficient model to a sporty 2.4L engine. No diesels are offered for the North American market just yet, but European Calibers will have that option as they hit the market later this year.

Modern sensibilities – The complaint of many new car owners today is that some models are not keeping up with changing times. However, the Caliber adroitly satisfies those issues: a chilled storage bin is available inside of the glove box handy for holding cold drinks and the interior has been designed to have proper capacity for laptops, cell phones, and MP3 players. Additional “cubbies” as the Dodge sales material calls them, are found throughout the car.

Like the Neon, the Caliber has also been designed to hold five adults. Beyond that, there is absolutely nothing in common between the two models, exactly what DaimlerChrysler had in mind.

Prices for base models are competitive with Toyota’s Corolla, but fully loaded all wheel drive versions will market in the same price range as a Camry or a Honda Accord. Therein rests a problem that DaimlerChrysler will have to quickly remedy: offer a second cheaper priced entry level model to bring in young buyers. Fortunately, the latest Dodge Buzz has talk of a Mexican built Scion fighter showing up within the next three years.

Yes, the Caliber certainly is a departure from the Neon, a welcome one at that. Should unit sales match all of the hype, then DaimlerChrysler will truly have a winner on its hands. Here’s betting the good money on the Caliber!

About The Author

Copyright 2006 -- Matt Keegan is a freelance writer covering new models as well as the classics. For Canada’s best wholesale supplier of auto parts and accessories, Matt encourages you to visit Auto Parts Canada for the widest inventory and the lowest prices: http://www.autopartsonlinecanada.com

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2007 Chevy Tahoe: Selling Like Gangbusters

by: Matthew C. Keegan

The jury is in regarding the recently released big SUVs from General Motors: they are an overwhelming success story. The Chevy Tahoe along with its GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade siblings are bringing in big gains for GM. Just in time too as the automaker pares excess capacity, closes plants, and lays off tens of thousands of workers. So, what is it about the Tahoe that is stimulating sales? Everything!

Just what is it about the new Tahoe that is bringing in the customers? With sales up nearly 50% over the previous year’s model there has to be something that sets the big SUV apart from its predecessor. In fact, everything has changed with the Tahoe as it is an all new model:

New body – The size of the Tahoe remains about the same: it is big. Yet, the body has been restyled with fresh sheet metal giving the truck a thoroughly modern and imposing look. The Tahoe is much more aerodynamic than the preceding model with a wind drag that is lower than the smaller Porsche Cayenne SUV according to Chevrolet.

New engine technology – Back during the 1980s, GM experimented and failed when it launched Cadillac vehicles that could shut down unneeded cylinders at various times during the engine cycle. Two decades later, the company has perfected the technology and its “displacement on demand” engines are some of the most economical motors sold today. In fact, car critics have noted that the Tahoe’s fuel mileage is comparable to the much smaller Kia Sorento.

New interior features – GM squeezed extra room out of the already roomy Tahoe interior by sculpting out more space from seat backs, doors, and the headliner. The result is an even roomier feel for passengers. In addition, Chevrolet is reporting that the new Tahoe is 20% quieter than its predecessor thanks to acoustic dampening materials and the improvements in aerodynamics.

Rallying cry -- Besides the progress over the previous model, there is one other thing that is stimulating sales: owner loyalty. GM’s misfortunes haven’t gone completely unnoticed by loyalists who enjoy the big SUV and insist on supporting the brand. Typically, when any popular model is redone, sales do surge. However, in the face of high fuel prices the lift that Chevrolet is getting is much higher than had been expected. This is good news for GM as the SUVs carry a high per unit profit margin to them; money the “general” needs as it attempts to right its listing ship.

Of course, not everyone wants a vehicle the size of the Tahoe. Instead, they will have to wait a few more months before the even bigger Suburban joins the line up. And you thought I was about to mention some sort of compact SUV, right? Not for Chevy owners who are loyal to their big trucks, vans, and SUVs!

About The Author

Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a full time writer covering the classic cars and future models. To keep your vehicle performing great, shop the Cool Air Intake shop for the best selection of performance parts: http://www.coldairintakeshop.com.

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6 Must Have Auto Accessories

by: Matthew C. Keegan

Buying a new car is a thrill: the feel, the new car smell, the pristine ride, the lack of floor mats... Yes, odd as it seems, your new car probably left the showroom without several key accessories. Don't let the dealer add them in after the fact, otherwise you will pay a mint for the favor.

Buying a new car is an experience that few will ever forget: the smell, the pristine interior, and the flawless ride are some of the things enjoyed by new car owners. Yet, despite how well equipped even the most expensive cars can be, oftentimes they leave the showroom with several accessories missing. No, they weren’t stolen; instead, for some queer reason these “must have” accessories were not included with the sale. Let’s take a look at six accessories every vehicle should have.

Floor mats – You have got to be kidding…no floor mats?! Oddly, floor mats are the chief accessory typically not included with any sale. Instead, you get a throwaway paper sheet for the driver. Without floor mats in place you can bet that the interior will be soiled in short order. Worse, if you wait too long your carpeting could be damaged which is especially bad news for you if you lease your vehicle. Just wait ‘til you see the price of replacing damaged automotive carpeting!

Cargo liners – Like the interior, the car’s trunk area is subject to dirt, debris, mud, the elements, and more. Some automakers have wised up over the years and included cargo liners as standard equipment while others make a cargo liner an expensive add-on, after-the-sale accessory for buyers.

Bug shields – If you live in a humid climate, a bug shield is a must. No automaker offers one as standard equipment; if you want to protect your hood and windshield a bug shield is a must. Also marketed as bug deflectors.

Car bra – Sure, they are stylish, but a car bra is much more than that. Offering protection to your grille and to the front part of your hood, a car bra can help deflect debris kicked up from the road. Who hasn’t come across that sort of problem while traversing our interstates?

Brake dust shields – No, there isn’t a safety aspect with a dust shield, but there certainly are aesthetic reasons why they make sense. You spent a lot for your tires and wheels, so why go through the hassle of a weekly cleaning just to keep your car looking great? Dust shields limit the dust so that you can do what you really want to do: drive.

Car cover – Whether you keep your car garaged or whether you leave it outside, a car cover is essential toward protecting your vehicle’s finish. Indoor air pollution and dust can damage a garaged vehicle; solar rays, moisture, bird poop, wind, and small impacts can damage exposed vehicles. For less than $200 you can buy a four layer, breathable car cover that will offer the protection your car so desperately needs.

So, there you have it. Six essential auto accessories for every vehicle. You’ll pay a mint for each accessory if you let your dealer add them in after the sale, so why not shop online with Car Stuff to find everything you need for your car and for less?

About The Author

Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a freelance writer covering the latest models as well as the current sellers. To keep your car looking its best without paying through the nose for auto accessories, shop Discount Car Parts Stuff today: http://www.car-stuff.com.

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The Continuous Challenges of the Dodge Challenger

by: Terry Brown

In the automobile world, there have been many vehicle names that come and go and then later would come back as another model. Or there are vehicle names that are used by different vehicles all at the same time. This case of confusion and double naming has also happened to the Dodge Challenger. For this vehicle, there have been two different models that held the same name. The first vehicle lived from 1970 to 1974 while on the other hand, the other Dodge Challenger lived from 1978 up until 1983. Both vehicles were marketed and ran under the umbrella of Chrysler Corporation’s Dodge division during the 1970s.

The first model of the Dodge Challenger was an entry to the pony car segment in the United States. It was actually based on the Plymouth Barracuda which used the same E-body platform that this vehicle, the Dodge Challenger, was mounted on. As per the second model, this vehicle was actually a revision and a version of the Mitsubishi Galant Lambda coupe which was sold in other areas of the world as the Mitsubishi Sapporo. The Dodge Challenger was marketed as a vehicle that held a sporty appeal, bright colors, and unique tape stripes.

During the 2006 North American International Auto Show, Dodge introduced another Dodge Challenger. However, this time around, it was introduced as a concept vehicle. According to the company, this Dodge Challenger, if it would go into production, would be mounted on the Chrysler LY platform. And this would possibly be fulfilled come the year 2008.

The Dodge Challenger has been used in various media especially broadcast media. It has appeared in music videos as well as in films. It was on Audioslave’s “Show Me How To Live” music video. It also made its appearance in films like Vanishing Point (1971), Gone in 60 Seconds (1974), Natural Born Killers (1994), Terminal Velocity (1994), Drive (1997), Vanishing Point Remake (1997), 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003), and Just Married (2003).

Featuring the capacity to be successful despite any kind of changes done to it as well as its capability to still perform and deliver, the Dodge Challenger needs no less than superior Dodge Challenger parts as well as accessories when the need arises. And this is where http://www.innerauto.com comes in. Having a vast array of well crafted Dodge replacement parts, performance parts, aftermarket parts, OEM parts and accessories to choose from its online store, it has also been made available twenty four hours a day to serve the most demanding needs for Dodge auto parts and Dodge auto parts information needs.

Its online collection holds the most durable Dodge parts that are made from premium quality material so as to guarantee the maintenance of the performance and delivery of the Dodge vehicle. The collection of Dodge parts includes a/c condensers, altezza tail lights, spoilers, tailgates, and wheels among many others.

About The Author

Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto-related. He currently writes auto-related articles for several publications.
Auto Parts Information http://www.innerauto.com/Dodge_Parts/Dodge_Challenger_Parts
Terry@innerauto.com

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Chrysler 300C: The Stretched Version

by: Matthew C. Keegan

Chrysler is planning on building a stretched version of the 300C, a car that will receive favor by the livery crowd. One drawback: a price premium as high as $5000 over the standard model!

As automakers go, developing well received models is a chore all by itself. When a model becomes a hit, as has the Chrysler 300C, the result is favorable press coverage, high customer satisfaction ratings, and a “halo” effect that can extend to the entire product line. Chrysler’s 300C is a hit, but the German-American automaker isn’t stopping there. A stretched version of the car is being developed, one that may find a following amongst enthusiasts, but only if the price is right.

So, why would DaimlerChrysler authorize a stretched version of the 300C? For several reasons including:

The Limo Market – Although the 300C is not on the same level as the Lincoln Town Car or Cadillac DTS, the car does compete with the Ford Crown Victoria. Hence, taxi and limousine operators will be drawn to the stretched 300C as the car gives its passengers the room that they need.

The Pursuit Market – The Ford Crown Victoria is the most popular police pursuit vehicle followed by the Chevy Impala. Chrysler long ago ceded this market when they quit building larger rear wheel drive automobiles. The stretched 300C could fit in nicely and give the automaker some additional sales to boost market share. Look for a similarly stretched Dodge Charger to also be built once 300C demand has been proven.

The Luxury Market – No, the 300C is not a luxury car, but a model coming down the pike 3-4 years from now will be. Yes, the Chrysler Imperial will be returning and it, too, will be a stretched version of the 300C, but even longer and larger than the stretched version of the 300C. Don’t think for a moment that DaimlerChrysler will not be measuring demand for its new 300C to determine Imperial demand.

For the record, there are a few things that we know about the bigger 300C: the car will be stretched only by six inches and all of those gains will show up in the rear passenger area. In addition, Chrysler will not be building the stretched 300C, instead an outside supplier will handle the task of taking existing models and reworking them.

Prices for the bigger 300C haven’t been finalized yet, but they may carry a premium of as much as $5000 over the shorter model. This is a concern, however, as the price may be more than what some livery drivers could justify. Perhaps DaimlerChrysler will eat some of the costs and hold the price down to a $1000 premium. If they don’t, the company could be in for a rude awakening and find demand for the stretched 300C to be tepid at best.

About The Author
Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a freelance writer covering automotive topics and aviation issues. You can make certain that your wheels always receive genuine auto parts and accessories by shopping only with quality retailers like the Performance Parts and Accessories wholesale shop: http://www.partsandaccessories.com.

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Jeep Commander: Stuck in a Sales Rut

by: Matthew C. Keegan

Jeep, there is only one. As far as the Commander goes, it isn't living up to expectations. In fact, the model is flailing with sales levels well below what they should be. What's wrong with the Commander? Will DCX dump the model?

Just months after its much publicized release, the 7 passenger Jeep Commander is a major disappointment for DaimlerChrysler to the point where it has become an albatross around the automaker’s neck. Stung with bloated inventories in excess of 100 days – an industry killer – the Commander is now commanding discounts of over $5000 per vehicle. What went wrong? Plenty, especially if you read what the pundits and prognosticators have to say about the new Jeep.

No vehicle introduction should be problematic however, as for the Jeep Commander this model has fallen well short of sales goals. There are many reasons why the Commander may be failing to live up to expectations including:

High Fuel Prices – Gasoline pushing past $2.50 per gallon cannot help any SUV. With the Commander’s three thirsty engine choices, the price at the pump can be painful. Yet, the even bigger Chevrolet Tahoe is selling well despite high fuel prices.

Dated Styling – Jeep mentions the Commander’s “heritage exterior design” as one of the chief draws for the vehicle. Take one look at the Commander, and the styling cues of the 1984 Jeep Cherokee quickly come to mind. While some vehicles successfully incorporate “the look” of an earlier model without copying the style, the Commander looks awfully like the earlier Cherokee, only stretched out. Personally, I find the style to be dated and awkward.

Cramped Interior – Put the Commander up against the next biggest Jeep, the Gran Cherokee, and you will see that the interior space is just about the same. This is bad because the Commander comes equipped with a third row of seats so there should be more room. Many have complained that only two small children could fit in the last row which, incidentally, does not completely fold into the floor like the “stow ‘n go” feature on the DCX minivans.

Overpriced – Fully loaded Commanders are retailing for well over $40,000. While this price range can be expected for the likes of a Yukon, Tahoe, or Expedition, it can’t for the Commander. Of course, the Commander is bigger than the Gran Cherokee which is priced just under $40,000. However, if you put the two models side by side, many would say that the Gran Cherokee is the better of the two.

So, will DaimlerChrysler actually discontinue the Commander? That isn’t likely. Instead, look for big rebates to remain in place and production to be permanently cut back. For the long term, DCX will need to give some serious consideration as to whether the Commander will remain part of the Jeep line up. In my opinion, if it does, it needs to be seriously overhauled in order to compete in today’s marketplace.

In all, the Commander is a costly mistake for the automaker. During these times of strong and aggressive competition, the Commander is a misstep that cannot be ignored by DaimlerChrysler. Goodness knows the Commander is being ignored by Jeep faithful who are spurning the model altogether.

About The Author

Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a full time freelance writer covering the best selling cars as well as niche models. To keep your car running well, shop the Catalytic Converters and Oxygen Sensors shop for the best selection of automotive parts: http://www.ecatalyticconverter.com.

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Chinese Cars: Arrival Delayed!

by: Matthew C. Keegan

While the arrival of Chinese cars has been delayed, they will still arrive on American shores pending the resolution of three concerns.

Over the past year, much has been written about various Chinese automakers and the pending introduction of their vehicles to the U.S. market. Manufacturers such as Chery and Geely have been mentioned most frequently with a few smaller automakers also receiving some press. Originally, it appeared that both manufacturers would import their vehicles some time around the summer of 2007, but that now appears unlikely as several current models have already failed preliminary U.S. safety tests. Regardless, before 2009 hits, at least two Chinese manufacturers will likely be importing cars to the U.S. and at prices starting as low as $8500!

Yes, all that talk of $6600 cars from China have evaporated. Many auto enthusiasts, including yours truly, had been passing around information about cheaply priced, cheaply built cars coming from China that would retail below $7000, some $3000 cheaper than any model now sold in the U.S. Dire predictions of just what this would do to the auto industry were raised. Now it turns out that those predictions were woefully incorrect.

What went wrong?

Well, nothing…and everything. The price mentioned was correct until U.S. automotive safety specialists got a hold of two or three models and put them through the ropes. Each and every model flunked safety tests and I’m not just talking about bumper failure: on at least one model the damage was so extensive that it was determined that the particular model as it is built now would never be approved for the U.S. market. Instead, an updated model incorporating the latest safety standards was suggested.

Despite the setback, the Chinese automakers are planning a U.S. roll out within the next few years pending:

Approval from the Communist Central Planning Committee – Lest anyone forget, the Chinese government is totalitarian and only upper government officials can approve the export of any vehicles to foreign markets. China is finding a great internal demand for their vehicles and if there is no excess capacity to export, the cars won’t be coming until that capacity has been met. Look for new factories to be built for Geely Automotive Company, Chery Automobiles, Ltd., and Diphthong Motors, the current group of leading Chinese automotive manufacturers.

Development of a U.S. Dealer Network – Geely is far into the process of having a dealer network in place thanks to Malcolm Bricklin who created Subaru’s network in 1968. Yes, Bricklin was behind the car that bore his name during the 1970s as well as the ugly Yugo of the 1980s. Older, yet wiser, Bricklin is carefully amassing a dealer network that will be in place in all fifty states and parts of Canada by 2008, just months before the first of five Geely models arrive.

Passage of Stringent Government Safety Tests – While the current models flunked, that doesn’t mean they won’t be sold in the U.S. Remember the $6600 price tag? Well, it’ll take between $1500 to $2000 per vehicle to ensure that each one passes the current U.S. safety and emissions requirements, thus the higher price tag. Any model that flunks will never be imported; instead, look for one or two acceptable models to enter first followed by updated versions of other models within the following two or three years.

At prices starting at $8500, the Chinese cars pose less of a threat to the market than cars that would have been priced below $7000. Still, the thought of buying fairly well equipped cars for less than $10,000 has many intrigued, something that the importers of the Chinese brands hope isn’t lost on you.

About The Author

Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a full time freelance writer covering car topics and business issues. Get the most out of your current ride and only buy genuine automotive parts and accessories from quality retailers like the Discount Auto Parts superstore: http://www.overnightautoparts.com.

ArticleCity.com - your one-stop source for free articles.

2007 Nissan Sentra: Big Surprises Inside!

by: Matthew C. Keegan

Nissan's Sentra is bigger, roomier, and more luxurious than ever before. The 2007 model marks some big changes for the popular model, changes that are sure to delight Nissan fans everywhere.

Once again, Nissan is putting into practice with its all new Sentra model something that has succeeded for them in the past: push the model up market. As it first did with the Maxima and later with the Altima, Nissan has now promoted the Sentra to make room for the pending introduction of the subcompact Versa. With the all new model, Sentra fans will find a better equipped, more polished model then any other car that has ever worn the Sentra nameplate. Intrigued? You should be: the car simply goes where no Sentra has gone before: up market.

Over the years, plenty of automakers have taken a popular selling model and elevated it one notch. Why? For a few reasons: to capitalize on demand for the model – a more luxurious version typically carries more profits with it then the base model. Instead of losing customers to another model [or worse, another make] when they are ready to trade up, why not move up the model instead? Another reason: the introduction of a newer, but smaller model in the line up. For Nissan, the latter reason holds especially true as the subcompact Versa, a car built to compete against the likes of Scion enters the Nissan line up at about the same time.

The new Sentra is much more roomier than the previous model. In fact, it could be mistaken for a midsize car as it packs in an additional 10 cubic feet of interior space. Other surprises found with the 2007 Sentra include a center console/shifter and dual folding high back rear seats to maximize carrying potential. Importantly, front and side impact air bags are now standard and a whole host of options not previously available with the model can now be had. These options include: smart key accessibility, Bluetooth wireless, a sound system to die for.

Best of all, fuel mileage is exceptionally good. Mating a 2.0L I4 to a six speed manny tranny yields EPA estimated fuel results of 29 city/36 highway. These figures are likely to be at or near the top for any car in its category.

Yes, the Nissan Sentra is a pleasant surprise, one that the Nissan company hopes that you will notice. For people looking for a bargain basement model, the Sentra no longer qualifies. Instead, the tiny Versa takes over and it will deliver two things that Nissan knows you will love: exceptionally high gas mileage and an affordable price starting around $12,000. Look for well equipped Sentras to retail for around $18,000.

About The Author

Copyright 2006 – Matt Keegan is a freelance writer covering automotive topics and business related issues. Keep your Versa, Sentra, Altima, Maxima, or other fine Nissan product running great by shopping for high quality replacement parts and auto accessories at Nissan Parts Wholesale: http://www.nisspartswholesale.com.

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Buying BMW Auto Parts

by: David Johnson

Do you own a BMW, or are thinking about purchasing a BMW in the near future? Well, having a BMW for some is quite a big deal, and most like to keep it in good shape and take care of it. It can be car that they’ve been dreaming of having for many years. So once they’ve finally got the car of their dreams, would it be better to take care of it?

That is why it is good to use BMW parts when changing anything, even a fan belt. You should always replace them with genuine BMW parts. To always ensure good performance from your BMW and to maintain its authenticity.

But of course that doesn’t mean you have to pay dealership prices for the parts. A better place to get the parts is online, do a little research. There are many stores online which specialize in BMW parts new or used. The prices are lot less then dealership prices, but be cautious as they might not have knowledgeable staffs like at the dealership. They might sell you a part that isn’t right for what you need.

But if you want to get your parts threw the dealership, the mechanics might tell you exactly what you need, and you can also ask them questions. That is a great way to ensure you get what you want. At the end of the day, you don’t want to be made a fool of.

But indeed the best place to buy any type of BMW parts is at the dealer. They either have the item in stock or they can order it for you. Yes, they will be more expensive, but it does give you peace in mind that you are getting the right genuine BMW parts. Take care of your investment; you’ll be sorry if you don’t.

About The Author

David Johnson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.go-cart-plans-n-kits.com/. His articles have also been featured on related sites such as http://www.bestcarpartsforme.info/ and http://www.bestcarpartsforu.info/

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Finding Classic Auto Parts

by: Jenna Simpson

If you finally got the classic car of your dream, finding the car parts for it is will be a hard task. Classic car parts are hard to come by because they are no longer in production, they don’t make the parts for them anymore. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be found.
One place to start looking would be online auction sites. For example, Ebay might be the easiest place to start. Ebay motors have a wide range of classic car parts, so it’s possible you might find what you are looking for.

You might also want to check out local swap meets, they are a good way to find classic car parts you’re looking. You can locate older model accessories and other outdated items.
As a last resort you can always check out car part dealer magazines. The problem with that would be the fact that you probably have to pay more money, but if you do indeed find the part you’re looking for it might be worth it.

But if it you wish to look further you can always check out clubs and organizations. More then likely many clubs and organizations are geared toward cars, or classic cars.
You could check out the internet. It seems today that theirs nothing you can’t find on the internet. You can search and find clubs you can join; it’s a good idea to search on yahoo.

If you are really desperate you can also go to the junkyard. Though it will be like looking for a needle in a hay stack, but it’s worth a shot. You can either visit or phone to see if they have the part.

But the more you take care of your car the less you’ll need to go running around looking for parts, and the more you actually enjoy your car.

About The Author

Jenna Simpson is a successful freelance author that writes regularly for http://www.garage-plans-n-kits.com/. Her articles have also been featured on related sites such as http://www.carparttips.info/ and http://www.coolingsystemsguide.info/.

ArticleCity.com - your one-stop source for free articles.

More pictures from the storm.

 

Pictures from tonights' Thunderstorm in Atlanta

 

Las Vegas

 

Fine wine.

 

Great Day, Great Cars!

 

Random Photos I took with my Canon DSLR

 

D-Tools Party

 

D-Tools Team

 

240SXMAGAZINE.COM

 

My fridge!!

 

The Nissan 240SX

 

Credit Man to the rescue!!

 

Atlanta Auto Show 2005