AutoClearingDealer.com - Automobile Specialists

Here Is The Future That Comes With Cars

Posted on July 5, 2014 by admin

For a glimpse into what automobiles will be like 20 years from now, contributing editor Stuart F. Brown conducted a group interview with executives at General Motors, Tesla Motors and Toyota and also spoke separately with a program manager at the Electric Power Research Institute. The interviewees, whose comments have been edited for length, foresee increased communication among cars and a combination of vehicle types. Some, like Tesla’s current sports cars, will draw their energy from a battery pack. Others, in common with today’s Toyota’s Prius and the 2010 Chevy Volt, will be hybrid designs, relying on both electric motors and small internal-combustion engines. Many forthcoming hybrids will charge batteries by plugging into the electric grid, and hydrogen fuel cells might be a reality. But that is not all that the participants see. Read on.

Perfect gift ideas for your graduating daughter

Posted on July 2, 2014 by admin

Watching my daughter grow up has been among the great honors of my life. From her first steps to her first report card to her first letter of acceptance from a first choice college, watching her follow her dreams has made me the most proud father in the world. I’m sure all you other fathers out there know exactly how I feel. And I’m sure all you parents out there know exactly how I feel when I get emotional talking about high school graduation. Talk about bitter sweet! Graduation is not just the end of high school, it’s the end of an era and marks the culmination of all the lessons you’ve tried to impart upon her in order to prepare for leaving home. If you’re like me, you tried to get your little girl to go the closest possible college, but don’t forget, it’s her choice. All you can do is make sure she knows you love her and send her off with the best gift possible.

A hybrid Altima

Many fathers give cars to their graduates, and if you’re on that team think of nothing but the new 2015 hybrid Nissan Altima. It’s fabulously safe and incorporates a proud array of state of the art safety features that will allow you to rest easy at night. Even when you know that your little girl is halfway across the country. It is a practical and attractive car that can zip in and out of parking spaces and will allow your daughter to have maximum freedom in her new home. Also, you’ll feel good about your gift because it’s a hybrid and uses far less fuel than other cars. You can’t decide what she does at her new school, but you can influence how she makes her decisions, so inspire her with the right car. If you’re interested in this or any of the other exciting cars or trucks in the new Nissan fleet, go to Alhambra Nissan or www.downtownnissan.com and start brainstorming for graduation.

A summer trip

In many parts of the world, traveling abroad is expected from the young adults leaving school. I happen to think this is a wonderful idea. Experiencing new cultures instills an unparalleled appreciation for diverse cultures and viewpoints. That’s why I highly advocate sending your little girl off on a European vacation. She probably shouldn’t travel alone. Not necessarily because traveling is unsafe, it usually isn’t, but it will make you feel better and make her feel more secure. After high school, I spend a few months backpacking through Europe with my best friend. That was unquestionably among the most important times of my life. I got to meet people I never would have come across, I got to see many sites that don’t even exist anymore and even still, almost forty years later, I still regularly look at those pictures and think back on how those few months have influenced the rest of my life for the better. Do her a favor and offer that same gift to your graduating daughter!

Volvo Releases New Function

Posted on July 1, 2014 by admin

Back in the days of white and black newsreels, an inventor developed a bell on a collar that rang whenever a motorist wearing it nodded off. Since this is the twenty-first century, Volvo is developing a high-tech version of the gadget. It uses face recognition technology to let an automobile know once the driver is tired or inattentive, so appropriate action can be taken.

In the past couple of years, assisted driving technology has moved out of the laboratory and into the showroom. You can find cars now that can help you park, stop you from making dangerous lane changes, and even apply the brakes in an emergency. However, all these aids are just that; aids. They operate on the assumption that the driver is awake and alert. Even the most advanced systems depend on the driver being able to take over the controls at some point, so how is definitely the car to learn that the person behind the wheel isn’t taking a nap?

Instead of a bell that rings when the sleepy driver’s chin hits it, Volvo’s approach relies on sensors installed in the dashboard. Called Driver State Estimation, this consists of small LED lamps that shine invisible infrared light on the driver’s face. When the driver is awake and alert by measuring such factors as how wide open the eyes are, along with the position and angle of the head, Sensors grab the reflected light, along with the system uses face recognition technology to ascertain.

Volvo Driver State Estimation uses face-tracking to determine where the driver looks

Based on this, the car can take appropriate action using driver assist functions, such as Lane Keeping Aid, collision warning with full auto brake, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist to help keep the vehicle from straying into danger or to send the motorist a wake-up alert.

If a driver is not paying attention, safety systems can be adapted more effectively, “Since the car will be able to detect. If the driver is focused, and earlier in the event the driver’s attention is directed elsewhere,” says Per Landfors, engineer at Volvo project and Cars leader for driver support functions, for instance, the car’s support systems can be activated later on.

Volvo Driver State Estimation uses face recognition technology to find out how alert the …

Volvo also sees this face recognition technology as a way to unobtrusively personalize the car by letting it automatically recognize the driver and adjust the cockpit and seat settings, along with using face tracking to alter interior and exterior lighting based on which way the operator is looking.

“This could be carried out by the sensor measuring between different points on the face to identify the motorist, for example. Simultaneously, however, it is very important remember compared to car doesn’t save any pictures and nor can it have a driver surveillance function,” says Landfors.

Source: Volvo

Making It All Out With Auto Detailing

Posted on July 1, 2014 by admin

Auto detailing may be an extremely profitable business. The most successful in the business are those that have a reputation for being the best, however. If you are interested in generating money through this sort of work, you should learn the trade well. There are several ways you can gain experience. Consider several of the tips below on how to train in auto detailing.

Try to find formal education in auto detailing. Search the web for licensed auto detailing schools and programs in the area. Many of them offer programs that award certificates.

Contact specialty schools and community colleges that offer auto courses. Check out the UTI Auto Body Tech School, the Detail King Auto Detailing Training Institute and Nashville Auto College.

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2Check for conferences and seminars offering information about auto detailing. One- and two-day programs and seminars are quicker ways to gain a brief idea of auto detailing. They are also great for those who desire to update their skills.

Search the Internet for web sites like the Auto Detailing Network that give a directory of classes and seminars that have to do with detailing.

Contact companies that offer courses that interest you. Pricing for courses varies.

Simply type “”auto detailing training”” in your search engine and then search for information about training in or near your area.

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3Find web sites that offer online training for auto detailing. At-home training is additionally available through web books, videos and sites.

Startingacardetailingbusiness.com is just one of many sites that offer ebooks and online videos to help you get began in the auto detailing business.

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4Become an apprentice with an established auto detailing shop. Many professionals learn their trades and skills from hands-on, job experience.

Contact an auto detailer in the area. Ask when you can spend two or three days learning and working the trade. For more experience, ask about a full-time or part time job.

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5Gain tips form a variety of web sites. You may be able to teach yourself auto detailing through reading advice from others.

Sites such as Best-auto-detailing-tips.com offer a variety of information and tips on auto detailing.

Study these sites and make a book from the information that you simply gain. Study the book and carry out hands-on trial and error to perfect your trade.

On The Garage Sale Trail

Posted on July 1, 2014 by admin

If you check out the word “garage” in the dictionary it will probably say something like “indoor space or building designed for the storage, parking and keeping of a motor vehicle” but the truth is that most garages are so packed with junk these days that there’s simply not enough room to park the car.

Holding a garage sale can be a great way to clear out excess junk and make a little pocket money on the side – some people are addicted to them and spend every Saturday morning prowling the area looking for a garage sale to pick up some bargains.

These expert tips can help you to get the most from your garage sale trail:

• Find a good route in search garage sales. The sales in the more affluent areas of your neighborhood are likely to have items for sale of a much better quality. Don’t just drive around in all directions, determine your best route and stick to it each week.
• Some people really don’t know what to charge for items at their garage sales but have a price in mind and stick to it. You can find great bargains at some sales and you can find items which are way overpriced at others. If you can spot the difference between the two you’re on to a winner.

• Write a list of the things which you want but don’t mind waiting for. You may be in need of a specific piece of gardening or kitchen equipment – stuff that you know you can manage without until you find a real bargain.
• If you drive an expensive car either park around the corner or take the bus. If you turn up at a garage sale in an expensive motor dripping in jewelry and fur then people will automatically expect you to afford to pay a little more and won’t take notice of your negotiating skills, however fine tuned they may be.
• Keep an eye out for items which you don’t particularly want or need but are great bargains with good re-sale value. You can always hold a garage sale of your own and add it in to make a profit or even start something like an eBay account.
Holding your own garage sale can help you to turn that clutter into some much needed cash.
• Advertise your garage sale in good time – post flyers in school notice boards, local shop windows, community boards etc.

• If you don’t have enough stuff for your own sale don’t be afraid to ask your neighbors if they have any clutter to sell.
• Smile at your customers, and potential customers. Good service cannot be beaten.
• Have plenty of change available. There’s nothing worse than somebody trying to pay for a 50 cent item with a ten dollar bill and nobody having any change – you’ll probably lose the sale.

There are a couple of good reasons to keep your car in the garage:

• It helps to keep it safe from accidental damage or theft which can occur when cars are left parked on the street.
• It helps to protect your car from the weather and therefore to maintain a good condition for longer.
• It can reduce car insurance premiums (an extension of the first point).

There are some fabulous motors for sale at Claremont Ford which really do deserve to be parked in the safety of a garage so think about organizing your own garage sale to make a little space. Check out the website at fairviewford.com and see for yourself.

Consumer Reports’ Releases Best New-Car Deals

Posted on June 28, 2014 by admin

It would be reasonable to assume that the best cars in the land would command a price premium, as it often seems to be that older, mediocre cars come with money on the hood to grease sales. But, our recent analysis shows that you can find significant savings on even the best cars.

To explore this theory, we studied the transaction prices on our 2014 Top Picks. These 10 models are standouts in their categories. Each is an exceptional, well-rounded vehicle, chosen from more than 260 we’ve recently tested. They have excelled in our testing, are reliable, and have performed well in independent crash tests. In other words, these are great cars that can be recommended without reservation. And it turns out, you can even save 5 percent or more on each.

Based on transaction prices last month and current incentives (on four of the 10 models), we’re able to predict the current expected savings off MSRP for models equipped like our specific test cars. The result is market average savings ranging from $895 (Subaru Impreza sedan) to $4,392 (BMW 328i).

To put this in perspective, we also calculated the average savings per category last month. In a couple of cases, the market slices tracked for transaction prices don’t exactly match the Top Picks categories, but the point is clearly illustrated where data is available.

Even on the best cars, you can find savings with research and negotiation, although the ultimate takeaway here is the reminder that demand and supply influence car pricing.

Best overall: Tesla Model S
The American-built Tesla Model S claimed our highest accolade this year, earning the distinction as best overall car. Scoring 99 out of 100 possible points in our road tests, the Tesla impresses with blistering acceleration, razor-sharp handling, compliant ride, and versatile cabin-plus, ultra-quiet electric operation with an impressive 225-mile range. This break-through car is selling briskly; don’t expect notable savings to be found here, aside from a $7,500 federal tax incentive and potential local incentives.

Small SUV: Subaru Forester
Standing tall in the vibrant small SUV category, the Subaru Forester has been collecting awards and accolades since the 2014 model was introduced. With class-leading 26 mpg in our tests, excellent driving position, simple controls, roomy back seat, and great visibility, it is easy to understand the appeal that has seen the Forester become a sales success for the brand. Consequently, incentives haven’t been needed to move Foresters, yet we see that there is true savings available. It is possible that negotiability will increase later this month, as Subaru prepares for an early 2015 Forester introduction next month.
Market average savings: $1,256
Average small SUV savings last month: $1,769

Midsized sedan: Honda Accord (4-cyl.)
Honda is notoriously stingy on cash incentives, instead focusing on discounted finance rates and special lease offers. Consequently, the desirable Accord is expected to carry much small savings than its peers. And that’s fine. The return on this investment is a car that is roomy, well-equipped, and competitively priced. It has good resale reliability and value, and low overall ownership costs. Just avoid the V6 models with the HondaLink infotainment system, as that has been shown to carry reliability concerns. Savings are aided by an incentive that expires on April 3rd.
Market average savings: $1,314
Average midsized sedan savings last month: $2,160

Compact car: Subaru Impreza
A repeat Top Pick, the current-generation Impreza offers a lot for the price, including standard all-wheel drive. hatchback and Sedan versions are well-rounded packages, with nimble handling and an impressively compliant, absorbent ride that’s among the best in its class. Fuel economy is surprisingly good for a model with AWD. All this goodness comes with less wiggle room on price than that found with competitors.
Market average savings: $895 (sedan), $1,041 (hatchback)
Average compact car savings last month: $1,440

Midsized SUV: Hyundai Santa Fe
Hitting the heart of the midsized SUV market, the seven-passenger Santa Fe also falls right on the segment average for savings. This spacious vehicle provides a comfortable ride, a quiet interior, a limolike rear seat, and generous cargo area. And it offers a lot of features for the money, such as a standard backup camera, enhancing its appeal. Our analysis finds there is an incentive worth more than 5 percent that expires on March 31.
Market average savings: $1,836
Average midsized SUV savings last month: $1,863

Green car: Toyota Prius
Defying traditional categories, the Toyota Prius offers fuel-focused shoppers a compelling alternative to traditional cars. This hybrid hatchback has an unrivaled combination ofpracticality and affordability, and fuel efficiency, with 44 mpg overall. Plus, it has proven to have stellar reliability over time.
Market average savings: $1,462

Pickup truck: Ram 1500
With its 2013 freshening, the Ram is surprisingly refined and inviting. A coil-spring rear suspension-unique for full-sized pickups-makes it the most comfortable-riding truck. Still, the Ram is fully capable of getting its hands dirty when duty calls. Like all domestic, full-sized trucks, the Ram 1500 is available in a variety of configurations, with different powertrains, cabins, and even beds. This analysis focused on the model we tested, the Big Horn crew cab with 4WD and powerful 5.7L V8. As expected, there are some savings available. (No surprise, as there is always negotiation space for trucks.) But it is much less than with other variations and competitors. Current potential savings of more than 10 percent expire March 31.
Market average savings: $2,294
Average full-sized pickup truck savings last month: $4,508

Luxury car: Audi A6
Simply put, the A6 is a joy to drive and an attractive purchase. Its potent, supercharged V6 engine and super-smooth eight-speed automatic transmission deliver invigorating power. Its agile handling is complemented by a comfortable ride. Inside you’re treated to a sumptuous, impeccably finished, first-class cabin that’s brimming with the latest high-tech features. Deals can be had, with expected savings taking the edge off the price. This looks like a smart buy, even though there are no current customer rebates, though in this segment, where prices can soar, larger discounts are available on other models.
Market average savings: $2,571
Average luxury car savings last month: $3,145

Sports sedan: BMW 328i
Long considered the sports sedan benchmark, the BMW 3 Series is also setting the standard for discounts. The 328i is a rare example in this list of a Top Pick that has a greater-than-average discount within its category, aided here by a customer incentive that expires on March 31. Beyond savings, there is much to like here, with excellent handling and a high fun-to-drive factor. The 328i’s 2.-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine is quick and thrifty, posting 28 mpg overall-the best among gas-powered models in its class. The savings are fostered by incentives of more than 10 percent that expire on March 31.
Market average savings: $4,392
Average luxury sports car savings last month: $3,143

Minivan: Honda Odyssey
The Odyssey is the most complete family vehicle you can buy. It can easily carry up to eight people, and the comfy second- and third-row seats can be configured in myriad ways to accommodate a wide range of cargo- and passenger-carrying needs. Other highlights include easy access, excellent child-seat accommodations, a quiet interior, and plenty of cabin storage. Plus, our tested EX-L beats the average category savings, even without a rebate, pointing to notable savings across the range.
Market average savings: $2,805
Average minivan savings last month: $2,683.

Making It Through With Your Car’s Engine

Posted on June 28, 2014 by admin

Note to Reader 6: I’m a bit worried about the current crisis being faced by huge automakers in the country, though this is just a side note. Although I’m not selling new cars, more like repairing old ones really, it still kinda smarts to see the Detroit Big Three Ford and Chrysler, and General Motors) take a stumble. Here’s to hoping those companies get the aid that they need to continue creating good cars.

That being said, onto our usual route. Troubleshooting your engine part 6. Bear with me, there’s just two or three more scenarios which I hope can help you guys sort things out when it comes to your rides. By the way, since most of the causes presented in this post have already been discussed in the previous entries, I’ll try to keep this post as sweet and short as possible.

***The picture shows a Scan Tool or DTI (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Reader

Sure if your engine stalls while idling or can’t idle smoothly after running for a while… Your car may run fine at high speeds. But what happens when your vehicle starts to crawl? If your vehicle truly is exhibiting this symptom, Here’s one quick way to test. After traveling for a quarter of an hour or so, release your step on the gas pedal to see how your engine’s gong to run. If it bucks or it stalls then…

Possible Cause: You may have a vacuum leak.

Possible Solution: Conduct a full check on your vacuum lines and try to determine if there’s leakage somewhere. Locate the faulty vacuum line/s and replace if necessary if there is.

Possible Cause: If your ride is still sporting a carburetor (in short, if you don’t have a fuel injection system), then it’s possible that you have a faulty power circuit or accelerator pump.

Possible Solution: Locate your accelerator pump and check for damage. Replace the entire carburetor if the damage is extensive. If the damage is contained, meaning it’s found in the pump itself, then simply replace your accelerator pump.

Possible Cause: Your idle speeds are set incorrectly.

Possible Solution: By adjusting your idle speed according to your vehicle’s specifications, set things right.

Possible Cause: You may have problems with your actual computerized engine control system.

Possible Solution: Locate a shop that has a DTI reader (diagnostic trouble code reader) or invest in a scan tool to find out where your engine problems are coming from. Also test your engine computer’s circuits. Repair and replace auto parts if needed. (Warning: this is usually a job best left to a professional mechanic-not just because of how difficult it is to actually replace your engine computer’s components but because this job usually requires expensive tools and/or equipment.)

Possible Cause: Dirty or damaged fuel injectors.

Possible Solution: Check your fuel system to determine if there is a decrease in fuel flow. If the problem is a dirty fuel injector, either replace or clean your injectors as soon as possible.

Possible Cause: EGR valve failure.

Possible Solution: If necessary, replace and Locate your damaged EGR valve.

Possible Cause: Ignition troubles.

Possible Solution: An ignition tune-up. Replace dirty or damaged spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, and rotor.

Possible Cause: Engine mechanical woes.

Possible Solution: Determine if your engine compression is set to the right levels. If any of your engine’s numerous components is malfunctioning, this should give you an idea. Replace or repair the damaged components.

Possible Cause: Too-low fuel pressure.

Explore the Coast in Style

Posted on June 28, 2014 by admin

Southern California offers a great wealth of stunning natural resources. If you live here, you already know that and you probably have a couple of favorite places. I have some that I like to keep to myself just so they don’t become overcrowded, but I also have a number of choice coastal destinations that I love sharing with everyone I know.

The first thing you need to know about exploring the coast of California is that you’ll need the right vehicle. We’ve got rugged mountains and some dirt roads that lead to paradise and you don’t want to be caught with the wrong car or truck in the wrong place. I highly recommend the hybrid Nissan Pathfinder. First off, it’s a Nissan, so you know already that it’s reliable. Second, it’s a hybrid, so you can feel good about saving money on gas and lessening your carbon footprint, and last, it can go anywhere. It’s a beast. If you’re tempted by this safe, state of the art beauty, check one out at Nissan dealership Ontario or metronissanredlands.com and get ready to start planning an adventure!

Big Sur

No discussion or exploration of the California coast is complete or even dented without a thorough visit to the central coast. Big Sur refers to about 150 miles of breathtaking hills and vistas that run from the Hearst Castle to Monterey Bay. In this region you’ll find historic bridges, towering waterfalls, spectacular redwoods and oh, so much more. Every turn of the road offers an invitation to another dimension of beauty and exploration opportunity.

Malibu

Just the name conjures a feeling of class and beauty, but Malibu offers so much more. There are campsites right on the beach and breathtaking hikes that overlook them. Malibu is home to some of the most beautiful communities that shelter splendid culinary gems and lush farmer’s markets. A perfect day for me is to drive up to Matador beach and watch the sunset from Neptune’s net, my favorite seafood restaurant. El Matador is a semi-private beach that is never crowded and always offers nice waves and a kid friendly environment. I’ve shared this kind of secret spot with only my closest friends, but I’m feeling generous right now so I’ll share it with you as well. And as I said, you really can’t beat that seafood restaurant to finish off your day in the sun. If you’re lucky enough to live in sunny Southern California, don’t take it for granted. Use this opportunity to appreciate all the myriad environments and food and beautiful nooks it has to offer.

2015 Lexus RC-F Comes To View With Its Pricing, Specs And Release Date

Posted on June 26, 2014 by admin

Lexus has something special planned for this year’s 2014 Detroit Auto Show with the introduction of the exciting and high-powered RC-F Coupe, the brand’s upcoming challenger to the 2015 BMW M4 and the first standalone coupe model since the end of the SC line in 2010.

2015 lexus rc-f

We do have this tasty teaser shot to go on as well as some info on the car’s powertrain, even though details are still relatively slim awaiting the big reveal. For comparison, the RC-F is slightly larger in most dimensions than a BMW 4-Series, though smaller than the 6-Series in every dimension except height. A clear focus has surely been placed on driving dynamics, as more-recent Lexus models like the new generation IS and GS have shed the brand’s dowdy, aged image to instead offer true driving thrills from lightweight, well-balanced chasses.

2015 lexus rc-f rear

For the top-of-the-line “F” model, sources point to 460 horsepower coming from a front-mounted 5.-liter V8 engine. There will also be a lesser-powered six-cylinder variant, the RC 350, available in the ‘States, with that car already having made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2013.

2015 lexus rc-f interior

With design details pulled from the gorgeous Lexus LF-LF and CC-LC Concept cars, the RC lineup will come with rear-wheel drive and an automated manual transmission, with a standard row-your-own manual transmission a strong possibility as well. The RC-F gets a deeper front airdam than its V6 and hybrid counterparts, with a more-aggressive Lexus spindle grille and side body cladding further heightening its performance image, as the leaked image shows.

[See the entire 2014 Lexus Model Lineup here]

We’ll find out on January 14 whether the RC 350, and possibly a hybrid variant coming to Japan, will debut alongside the RC-F, or if the hi-po V8 model will follow later. An educated guess places the V8 Lexus in American showrooms by the end of 2014, priced from around $60,000. You can always get the 416-horsepower 2014 Lexus IS-F, which is available now., if you can’t wait.

Car Maintenance 101: What You Have To Do When Your Car Has Steering Problems (Part II)

Posted on June 26, 2014 by admin

Note to Reader 2: Obviously, it pays to keep your steering components in mint condition. Because of the location of your steering mechanisms, it’s a bit tougher to inspect these parts every week. But that’s no reason for you to simply forget about this component altogether. The moment you “feel” that there’s something wrong with your transmission/steering mechanisms while you’re driving, it’s always best to address these problems head-on rather than wait for your ride to break down completely. The following are other symptoms and possible causes behind your steering problems.

If your steering wheel starts vibrating when you accelerate, or when your steering wheel vibrates even while you’re going straight at a steady speed…

There are many reasons why your steering wheel “fights” your grip. Sometimes as you drive through your freeway, you may run into bumps and potholes that will cause your wheel to turn sharply immediately. This is why it pays to keep your eyes forward and to keep a steady hand on your wheel. But if you’re moving on smooth pavement with no road humps or bumps in sight, and your steering wheel continues to fight your grip, then you may have:

Possible Cause: wheels that are already out of balance.

Possible Solution: Take your car to the local garage to have your wheels re-balanced and realigned.

Possible Cause: Your wheels may be prying loose due to loose bolts.

Possible Solution: If you’re on the freeway, head to the emergency bay to inspect your lugs. Look at your wheel lugs to determine if they need tightening.

Possible Cause: You may have damaged brake discs.

Possible Solution: This coming weekend, take the time to inspect your braking system and to replace your rotors if necessary.

Possible Cause: Worn treading on your wheels or your tires are starting to wear unevenly.

Possible Solution: Check your tires if you need to replace them if the treading is all but gone. Also keep in mind that uneven wear and tear on your tires is a symptom of a bigger problem. Check your wheel alignment and balance to determine if it’s time to take your car to the shop.

If you hear a clunking noise each time you go through the road bump…

It’s actually not just clunking noise but also knocking on your steering wheel. The moment you hear these sounds, it’s time for you to check your steering mechanism for trouble. Your car may have…

Possible Cause: Damaged strut bearings.

Possible Solution: Check your strut bearings for signs of wear and tear. If the damage is extensive, consider replacing both your strut bearings as soon as possible. Remember, like most of the other “paired” components in your car, when one auto unit breaks down, the other is not far behind.

Possible Cause: A broken strut assembly or worn shock absorbers.

Possible Solution: Inspect your suspension for signs of trouble. If you experience frequent swaying, bottoming out, and bouncing each time you go through road irregularities, then it’s time for you to repair or replace these components.

Possible Cause: Broken ball joints.

Possible Solution: Do check out your ball joints for signs of wear. If the damage is severe, replace this component immediately!

If you hear a loud screeching sound each time you stir when you’re parking or driving slowly…

Screeching is never a good sign. You’ll know that friction is doing a fine job in ruining your braking system if this happens when you’re braking. But if this happens when you’re steering then this may mean that you have…

Possible Cause: A worn steering belt (power steering belt).

Possible Solution: Inspect your power steering belt. I highly suggest replacing this component and adjusting the replacement accordingly if it’s too damaged to operate.

Possible Cause: Your steering belt is too loose.

Possible Solution: Slack on your power steering belt is never a good sign. If your steering belt is not broken or damaged extensively, then you don’t need to fork over more cash to buy a new one,. That’s the good news. All you have to do is tighten this belt.

Possible Cause: Your car is running too low on power steering fluid.

Possible Solution: Simply add more power steering fluid to your ride. Although if I were you, now’s a good chance as any to inspect for leaks. If you’ve recently added power steering fluid to your ride and the fluid levels are still too low after your next check, then you might have leakage. Address this problem as soon as you can.

If you feel that your steering is becoming “sloppy”?, if you have difficulties steering your ride correctly or?

Sloppy steering isn’t always the driver’s fault-unless we’re talking DUI at which point you shouldn’t even be driving in the first place. When it’s your steering mechanism that’s at fault, then this indicates that you may have…

Possible Cause: Too-low power steering fluid levels.

Possible Solution: Just like I said in the previous scenario, all you have to do is add more power steering fluid to your ride. If, however, we’re talking constant drain in your power steering fluid levels, you’ll need to check for leaks as well.

Possible Cause: You need to replace your steering rack mounts.

Possible Solution: Either have it fixed or replaced by a professional as soon as you can if you have a damaged steering rack mount.

Possible Cause: Damaged strut bearings.

Possible Solution: Again, simply check for damage. If the damage is too severe, replace both of your strut bearings since the other one’s bound to break soon anyways.

Possible Cause: Damaged steering components.

Possible Solution: Inspect your steering rack and tie rods for damage. If any of these components are in need of replacing, then make sure you find a great replacement part in your local auto parts shop or online. Check your owner’s manual for part brand and requirements recommendations.

Note to Reader 3: Keep in mind that these are just some of the basic steering problems that you may experience when there is damage on yoursteering and suspension. Alternatively, transmission systems. Most of the time, these symptoms appear in groups or pairs-and you’ll have to address more than just a single steering problem to restore your vehicle’s performance.

Note to Reader 4: As a special request from Kevin, here’s a picture of the steering rack mount. It’s amazing how such a small component plays a big part in keeping your car performing at its best, right?