Monday, August 13, 2012

How to Quickly Cool Down Your Vehicle

As the temperature continues to rise this summer, who hasn't been in the sweltering situation of returning to your vehicle only to find that in your absence it has turned into an legitimate oven in which you could actually, if the occasion called for it, cook a four-course meal on the dashboard?

Okay, while that might be slightly exaggerated, getting into your car after it has been sitting in the hot sun all day is certainly not comfortable nor enjoyable. The good news is that there are ways to prevent and get rid of the heat that has gathered in your car to make the hottest part of your day a little more bearable.

Preventive:

Before you go anywhere there are several things that you can do to make your car cooler when you return, leaving you in a better position when trying to cool it back down quickly to the optimum driving temperature. First of all, if possible park in the shade. Under a tree, behind a wall, or in the shadow of a building as all will help keep the temperature from rising in your car. If you do have to park in the direct sun, be sure to use a sun visor in both the back and the front windshield to get maximum protection. If it is legal in your state, having your windows professionally tinted also goes a long way in keeping your car cool when your are in it or away from it. Shutting out UV rays not only protects your skin while you are driving, but also the interior of your car.

Heating Up:

Understandably, there are going to be times where you can't park in the shade, you don't put up your sun visors and the heat index outside is through the roof. So coming back to your car in a situation like that is where the real tricks to make your car cooler faster come in handy. The first thing to remember is that you want the hot air out of your car as fast as possible in order for the air conditioning to do its job effectively. To let the hot air escape, crack your windows and then set the air conditioning on fresh air (not recirculated air) and set the fan to high. Resist the urge to try and cool your face and upper body first and adjust the air to come out of the feet openings as this allows the old hot air to be pushed out quicker and new cooler air to take its place. As the hot air is removed, close the windows and adjust the air to hit your upper body and begin to cool it down. At this point, your car temperature should be tolerable and on its way to returning to normal, even when the temperature outside is at its hottest.

About the Author: This guest post was written by Freedom Rims, a Responsible Military Lender since 1983. Freedom Rims offers rims credit and financing for a variety of performance Rims and Tires in Twentynine Palms, CA. We offer instant credit approval on a large inventory of tires and wheels with our easy military financing options.

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Electric Power Steering FAQs

Electric power steering has become a fixture on many new models of cars.  As with any new technology, particularly one that changes widely from the standard, this power steering technology has been surrounded by some controversy from the start.  Some welcome this change for its benefits, while others point to problems that have been discovered early on.  Here are some frequently asked questions about electric power steering that may help you make a decision on the car you plan on buying next.


How does electric power steering work?

Electric power steering works with an electric motor rather than a hydraulic pump.  When the driver turns the wheel, the motor detects the rate of turn.  A computer takes into consideration other factors such as the vehicle speed in order to determine what feedback the driver should feel in the steering wheel.


Why is electric power steering becoming more popular?

Automotive manufacturers have begun using EPS more and more in late model vehicles.  There are a few simple reasons.  First of all, electric power steering systems are less expensive for auto makers to build.  This means more profit at less cost.  Another reason for EPS popularity is that this system creates better overall fuel efficiency for a vehicle.

In vehicles in which power steering is controlled by a hydraulic pump, the pump constantly runs regardless of whether or not power steering is necessary.  Constant drag on the fuel system by this hydraulic pump harms a vehicle’s fuel performance.  Lastly, EPS systems cut down on the number of hoses and mechanisms under the hood, simplifying the manufacturing process.


Does EPS help me at all?

For many of the same reasons that auto makers have turned to electric power steering, this system has several benefits for a car owner.  Since the EPS vehicle needs no hoses or a hydraulic pump, it also requires no fluid.  You won’t need to worry about the power steering fluid level, or whether or not your vehicle has a leak.

A steering system that is operated by computer also has a benefit for you.  As with any computer system, the EPS system on your vehicle can be adjusted.  If you feel as though the power steering is somehow not working properly for you, an adjustment can be made with a computer, not a risky mechanical procedure.

Finally, the fuel economy of the EPS system makes it ideal for any car buyer.  Innovations that provide higher fuel efficiency are what drive car sales while at the same time making vehicle owners happy.


Are there problems with electric power steering?

There are still issues with EPS that require some ironing out.  Several auto manufacturers have issued recalls of their power steering issues after receiving numerous complaints.  Some drivers report that the power steering causes the car to veer while driving at high speeds.  Others have cited difficulty steering the vehicle and an occasional loss of steering ability.

Auto manufacturers are investigating the source of these problems and working to ensure safety and functionality.  While there are some issues with EPS, there is no arguing that this system is steadily growing to replace the traditional hydraulic power steering.

About the Author: Matt blogs on behalf of David Stanley Dodge based out of Oklahoma City, OK. David Stanley Dodge Jeep provides Oklahoma residents with great deals on automobiles and is a trusted dealer well-known all around the state of Oklahoma. 

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

2013 Volkswagen Golf R at Betten Imports

The 2013 Volkswagen Golf R, Volkswagen's most powerful sports performance vehicle, is now available at Betten Imports. The R32's successor, the sporty VW Golf R has improved performance and fuel-economy. The new Golf R can receive 33 hwy mpg and 23 city mpg, while its TDI Clean Diesel model can receive 42 hwy mpg and 30- city mpg, making the Golf a hot hatch with a fuel-conscience.

Why read about it when we can just show you? Take a quick test drive with our resident auto enthusiast and sales consultant Eric Divelbiss:

Interested in testing the Golf R out for yourself? Give us a call at (616) 301-2100 or visit us online at www.bettenimports.com.

Design:

  • Bi-Xenon headlights

  • Multi-function steering wheel

  • Heated front seats

  • Cooled glovebox

  • Climatic climate control with pollen filter


Safety:

  • Intelligent Crash Response System

  • Electronic Stability Control

  • Crash-optimized front end

  • Six airbags with Side Curtain Protection


Performance:

  • 6-speed automatic with Tiptronic

  • TDI Clean Diesel engine

  • 2.5L in-line 5-cylinder engine

  • 4-corner independent suspension


Technology:

  • Bluetooth with audio streaming

  • RNX 315 touchscreen navigation

  • AUX-in for MP3 players

  • Premium VII touchscreen sound system

  • Dynaudio premium audio system


Want more VW videos? Check out our Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/bettenimports

More on Volkswagen from GRAutoBlog:
Coming to America: 2013 Volkswagen Golf R
Betten Imports Introduces New VW Service Xpress
VW Beetle Fender Edition, TDI Versions Coming This Fall
2012 Volkswagen Beetle at Betten Imports
Volkswagen NILS Concept
2012 Volkswagen Up!
2012 Volkswagen Passat Test Drive Event at Betten Imports

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Courtesy's 'Car of the Month' August: 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee

With the Grand Cherokee, Jeep proves that it is possible to seamlessly blend iconic 4x4 power and ruggedness with the comfort of luxury refinements. The Cherokee's 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine packs a powerful driving experience while simultaneously delivering a solid 23 hwy mpg, not to mention Best-in-Class driving range with the ability to drive more than 500 miles on one tank of gas. The Grand Cherokee also has best-in-class in towing with a capability of hauling 7,400 pounds.

Although it is a smooth, comfortable ride, the Grand Cherokee never truly forgets its 4x4 roots. It has three available 4WD systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Drive II with rear Slip Differentials, Quadra-Trac II, which allows you to transfer torque to any wheel. The SUV also features class-leading technology with the Selec-Terrain System that allows you to choose Auto or Sand/Mud, Sport, Snow, or Rock for the ultimate ride control no matter what conditions you encounter.

Whether your Jeep is traversing muddy inclines or simply driving to pick up the groceries, to help you and your ride be as safe as possible,  the Grand Cherokee has numerous advanced safety features: Adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning system, blind spot monitoring, rear cross path detection, hill assist, and more.

Current Offers:

Through August at Courtesy Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, West Michigan's Mopar Elite dealership, as part of Chrysler's 'Summer Clearance Event', qualified customers are eligible for special 0% financing for up to 72 months or Customer Cash up $3,000 on select Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram truck models.*

Did you know the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the most awarded SUV ever!? Click here for a full list of its awards. 

*See dealer for details.

More from ‘Car of the Month’:
2012 Chrysler 300 – July

2012 Dodge Grand Caravan – June
2012 Jeep Wrangler – May
2012 Chrysler Town & Country – April
2012 Dodge Charger – March

2012 Jeep Compass – February
2012 Chrysler 200 – January
2012 Ram 1500 - December
2012 Dodge Journey – November

2012 Jeep Liberty - October  


More on Jeep from GRAutoBlog.com
Five Jeep Grand Cherokee Features You Might Not Know About
Most Awarded SUV Ever: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 
JK-8 Jeep Wrangler Pickup Conversion
Jeep Wrangler Wins ALG Residual Value Award