The Advantages of a Motorcycle Track Day

If you're a motorcyclist, you are familiar will the thrill you experience being in your own world, on a completely empty and winding road, enjoying a smooth ride. As a rider, you take a lot of risks, riding on the streets and public access roads, where there are possibilities of things going wrong. Potholes, vehicles, and a lot of other obstacles are all working against you. There is also the possibility of being pulled over, for trying to enjoy a good ride! However, you still love that feeling you get from riding anyway.

Imagine a place where you can enjoy a good and fun-filled riding experience, where the pavement is smooth and well maintained, more fun, no careless drivers, no traffic worries, and no cops waiting to pull you over? Taking your bike to its limits is encouraged instead of frowned at or punished? Yes! There is such a place. A Motorcycle Track Day!

A Motorcycle Track Day is the most thrilling, and effective way to build and enhance your riding skills. The event is held on a racetrack, allowing you to learn and ride at real-world speeds and also concentrate on enhancing your skills without the hazards on the street.The track gives you an great, safe environment compared to riding on public access roads. It is one of the best and exciting skill developments you can buy.

Learning on a racetrack will help you build skills that will make you a faster and better rider.

So what exactly are the advantages of a motorcycle track day? There are loads of benefits of taking your motorcycle to a racetrack. Here are some of the benefits you can experience by involving yourself and participating in a motorcycle track day:

Safe & Fun-Filled Environment for Learning

The track offers a safe and controlled environment to ride, especially for riders who want to enjoy the thrill of speed. You are surrounded by coaches and experienced riders. There are also no hazards or roadside obstacles that get in your way like on the street.

Fast Learning

You can learn more in one motorcycle track day than in several months of street riding in good conditions. This adds up into making you a better rider, whether on the street or on a track.

Opportunity to Socialize

Such an event like a motorcycle track day gives you the opportunity to network and develop new friendships other motorcyclists. Most new racetrack riders are usually nervous and afraid on their first day of participation, but once in the midst of a friendly group of riders with enthusiasm to learn, they are made to comfortable and feel at home.

Advanced Learning

You will also be able to concentrate on learning how to improve your riding skills such as such as how to corner and brake with more control and confidence. It is also the only place you can learn to ride your bike the way it designed to be ridden

Riders will learn how to apex a corner, braking skills, when to brake and when not to, appropriate shifting techniques, and the right body positioning. They will better understand the physics behind riding a motorcycle, and the consequences of improper moves when riding. This will help them become safer riders on the street because they learn control of their motorcycle better, and how to handle it.

Participating in a motorcycle track day helps you become a faster, safer better rider, allowing you to mentally process and react better to unexpected occurrences while riding.

Top Online Sites to Buy Riding Gear

What is Motorcycling Riding Gear?

Motorcycle Riding gear

Keep your daredevil spirit but smartly!

Motorcycle riding needs full protection. To ensure road safety and eliminate fatal accidents, a rider should pad up well. Motorcycling riding gear include protective clothing and helmets. The protective coverings include special types of jackets, gloves, boots, and pants.

Motorcycling riding gear cannot be taken frivolously because these days many countries have defined laws that mandate the wearing of riding gear.

Typically, these riding outfits are crafted of leather or specialized man-made fabrics like Cordura or Kevlar.

Let's find out more on riding gear, shall we?

Different components of Riding Gear

Ideally, the riding gear is a set of five components - helmets, riding jackets, riding pants, gloves, and riding boots.

Helmets

This is the most important component of the riding gear because it protects the most important body part- the head. It is necessary that you invest in a good quality helmet. Look for the ISI mark that ensures quality and protection.

For serious bikers with a racing spirit should go for helmets that are certified by "DOT" or "SNELL", these helmets are in fact a prerequisite for the racers to participate in the racing events conducted under the supervision of FMSCI.

While speculating helmet, make sure that it fits your head perfectly. Check the visibility factor too. The visor of the helmet should be scratch-free and avoid dark-coloured visor for night riding.

Learn all about "How to Buy Riding Helmets"

Riding Jackets

You may have seen a lot of bike riders donning cool leather jackets to get the look of a rugged biker. Well, on the swag scale he may have scored 10 but not on the safety metre.

Whether you embark on a long bike ride to Ladakh or partake in a pulse rating race, wearing a riding jacket, and we do not mean the simple leather ones, is essential. A good, sturdy jacket will protect you from environmental factors as well as in accidents and mishaps.

These riding jackets are designed to defend your elbows, shoulders, spine, and chest. They are broadly grouped into two categories- the expensive "leather" jackets and the affordable "Mesh" jackets. Some of the popular riding jackets in India are Cramster jackets, Yamaha jackets, DSG jackets.

For safety purposes, buying a good-quality riding jacket is a long-time investment. Choose an all-weather jacket that fits your body snugly and in a bright colour. It should be made of reflective material with proper ventilation. And it should contain the certified armour.

Find more information on "How to Choose the Right Riding Jackets"

Riding Pants

The bottom line is YES! They are very important! Most of the riders make the mistake of replacing riding pants with denims. But let us tell you there's more in leg area to protect than you think.

The beast i.e. your bike is mostly controlled by your legs. You shift and change bike gear using your legs, not to forget the balancing part during idle periods. Now consider that if you crash and fall, your legs with minimal guard will scrape, causing maximum injury to the knee, a part that helps in your daily activities such as walking, sitting, climbing stairs, etc.

So, you see why riding pants are important. In addition, the waterproof feature of the pants shields you from rain as well. Just a few pointers- buy a riding pant that fits you comfortable with enough breathable space. The pants should guard your thighs, knees, and lower legs properly.

Riding Gloves

Another important unit of the riding gear is the riding gloves. Like the jackets, riding gloves are also made from either leather or mesh. However, experts recommend the leather gloves for better defence.

Good riding gloves should protect your knuckles, palm, and other vulnerable parts. They must not hinder the operations and should allow the regular manoeuvre with ease. Also, check for proper ventilation.

For rides in hot, humid climate, you will find gloves in perforation while for winter rides choose gloves with proper insulation and waterproof lining. For competitive races and rides in extreme conditions, full gauntlet riding gloves are recommended.

Take a look at the "Expert Buying Guide for Riding Gloves"

Riding Boots

Coming in last but not the least is a pair of sturdy riding boots. Serious biking and we are not referring to puttering around the town on commuter bikes, demands solid riding boots. Riding with basic slippers or shoes can be quite risky.

That's right! The fact that you ride with shoes on isn't enough. Long distance bike rides call for proper ankle boots with added protection at the toes. Proper riding boots are made of strong leather that is tough and can sustain abuse.

They have an inbuilt armour to ensure optimum foot protection. Another reason to invest in a durable pair of boots is that the constant gear shifting can tear or scar your boots. These special biking boots also have a special rubber affixed at the spot where gear changing can cause damage.

While buying riding boots check that it fits you closely but doesn't obstruct free blood flow. Also, it shouldn't be too loose that your feet wobble in them. If you compare your riding experience with and without wearing these special riding boots, you shall understand that it does make a difference!

Learn the nitty-grities and basics about "How to Choose Riding Boots"

And so those are the different riding gear that complete your riding gear kit. Well-fitting and comfort are the two sides of the same coin and we should remember that while buying motorcycle riding gear. Now we strongly recommend that you should buy these riding gear first hand, as in go to store and try each of them out before deciding. It is good to remember that comfort comes before swag!

Aside from these basic riding gear, there are miscellaneous riding accessories that you might need, such as riding glasses, biker patches, mobile mounts, motorcycle maintenance, and others.

You can add these accessories to your gear kit as and when you need them. But the five main rising gear components are an absolute necessity!

That being said, here are some top online sites to window shop your riding gear.

Top Online Sites for Riding Gear

If you are an online shopping junkie and want to know where to find the best riding gear online then here's a list of top online sites for riding gear in India.

TrailsofIndia

Planet DSG

Royal Enfield store

Bikegear

Superbike Store

Cramster

Revzilla

Spartan Progear

Outdoor Travel Gear

Amazon

PGS Biking Gear

Store 4 Riders

Now to some of us, as the newbies in the motorcycling world, the prices of these riding gear may come as shocking. But remember that you cannot put a price tag on safety. Try not to compromise on the quality and comfort for a few thousand.

Setting out on road to explore the unseen around you and to discover the unknown within you may sound alluding. But venturing out with minimum safety guards seems foolish. Wandering on different terrains, through busy roads and bustling crowds, you may not fathom what could hit you. Therefore, it is imperative that you be road ready to enjoy the adrenaline rush accident-free!

7 Tips for Minimizing Auto Repairs

We rely on our vehicles to get us where we need to be. This means long hours on the road and lots of wear and tear on out vehicles - so by rights, auto repair services must be a part of our anticipated expenses. However, these vehicle repairs don't have to a constant part of life. There are a number of proactive things we can do to keep the time spent at the mechanic's shop to a minimum.

If you have never considered being proactive about auto maintenance, then now is the time to do so. Better yet, you don't have to be an auto repair service specialist or have a huge garage full of tools to do these simple tasks. Rather, just some basic knowledge and tools will suffice. Let's get started.

Tips for Minimizing Auto Repairs

1. Read the manual. Your vehicle manual will tell you things like how often to change the oil, what to watch for in how your engine is running and many other useful facts. Knowing and following them will save you a great deal of aggravation.

2. As soon as your engine light comes on, take it in for a diagnostic check. Taking care of small problems will prevent larger more costly ones.

3. Change the oil, add water, maintain the anti-freeze and keep up with any other liquids that need to be added to the car. This will keep its performance better and minimize risk of damage to other parts of the vehicle.

4. Keep your tires at the correct weight and amount of air. This information will be listed in your owner's manual. Also, be sure to get them rotated as recommended. Failing to do any of this can result in a blowout.

5. Pay attention when you drive. Watch out for items on the road that can damage the wheels, or kick up into the workings of your vehicle.

6. Get your transmission serviced. Talk to the people who change the oil to find out how often this is recommended for your particular vehicle.

7. If you notice unusual sounds being made by your vehicle while you are driving, or if it seems to be shaking unnecessarily, take it in for a checkup. It's always best to be told it is nothing to stress over than to ignore the sounds/shaking and find out there was serious problem or repair that could have been prevented.

When you take the time to maintain your vehicles, then you can minimize the time and money spent on auto repair services. To learn additional ways to get more out of your particular vehicle(s) talk to a local auto repair service team today.

Step By Step: How to Change A Tyre

It is important to know exactly how to change a tyre in case you end up into a messy situation on the side of the highway. Some of us have people to call in these cases but there are occasions where you might be far out and help could take some time to arrive. Here is an easy step-by-step tutorial on how to change your tyres.

1. Firstly, make sure that you stop on the side of the road where it is safe and you have enough space to change the tyre. Always be aware of the oncoming traffic where you are changing the tyre.

2. Making sure that you have all the necessary tools to do this job is an important factor. You will need a tyre iron, a jack, a spare tyre that is properly inflated and fit for the purpose, as well as the manual for the car. This manual will give you the necessary instructions on how to change the tyre if there are specific features your car may have.

3. Make sure that you have the handbrake activated before you start with the wheel changing process. It is also important to place an object behind the opposite wheel in case the car starts to roll backwards.

4. On most cars, there are indentations under the car that make for a stable place to place the car jack. You can see where these indentations are by means of small markings along the side of the car. The side of the car has to be at least twenty centimetres off the ground so that you can easily change the part.

5. You will need to remove the hubcap so that you can reach the tyre. The hubcap has been clipped on and can be removed by wedging the flat part of the tyre iron into the crevice of the cap. The hubcap is the part of the tyre that protects the lug nuts beneath.

6. Loosen the lug nuts using the correct side of the iron. Some cars have special adaptors that fit onto the nuts. You won't need to completely remove the lug nuts as of yet. You can remove them as soon as you have taken the tyre off of the wheel. The tyre should simply click out of place and be easy to remove.

7. Fit the spare tyre to the wheel piece. The bolts have to line up with the holes. Place the lug nuts onto the bolts and start tightening it equally by hand. You can then use the iron to tighten the nuts properly without having wasted too much energy. Do not over fasten as it could break.

8. You can then place the hubcap back onto the face and lower the car. The spare tyre should only be used for emergency moments. You will notice that they are narrower than a regular tyre.

Now you can drive safely to a fitment centre. As soon as you get there you should get the tyre replaced.

Repairing Flood Damage to Your Car

1. Do not attempt to start the car!

It's tempting to turn the key and see if the car still works, but if there is water in the engine, attempting to start it could damage it beyond repair. Don't try to start the car. If there's water in the engine, transmission or fuel system, you'll just compound the damage. Your best option is to have your car towed to a mechanic work shop.

2. Determine how deep the car was submerged.

Mud and debris usually leave a waterline on the car, inside as well as out. If the water didn't rise above bottom of the doors, your car will probably be fine. if water reaches the bottom of the dashboard, you car won't definitely not be fine.

3. Dry the interior.

If water got inside the car, mole will grow quickly. Mold and corrosion are setting in now. You need to clean out as much liquid and mud as you can and dry out your car as soon as possible Start by opening the doors and windows and putting towels on the floor to soak up water, however you should plan on replacing anything that got wet, including carpets, floor mats, door panels, seat padding and upholstery.

4. Check the oil and the air cleaner.

If you see droplets of water on the dipstick or the level of the oil is high, or if the air filter has water in it, do not attempt to start the engine. Have it towed to a mechanic to drain the water and have the fluid changed. If you are the do-it-yourself type, you can try changing the oil then removing the spark plugs and cranking the engine to blow out the water, but we still recommend taking your car to a professional mechanic. Fuel systems on more moderns cars are usually sealed, but older cars may need to have their fuel systems drained. Brake, clutch, power steering and coolant reservoirs should be checked for contamination.

5. Check all of the electrical systems.

If the engine looks OK to start, check everything electrical: Headlights, turn signals, air conditioning, stereo, power locks, windows and seats, even the interior lights. If you note anything even slightly flicker, including the way the car runs or the transmission change, that could be a sign of electrical issue. Take the car to a mechanic immediately.

6. Check around the wheels and tires.

Before attempting to move the car, look for debris lodged around the wheels, brakes and under body. Make sure nothing this obstructing the movement of the wheels.

7. It is advisable to consider replacing a flooded car

A flood-damaged car may not should signs of problems immediately, it could take months or even years before such problems begin to manifest. If you can it is advisable you consider replacing the car. Replacing it will cost money, but you may save yourself from some major (and expensive) headaches down the road.

8. Beware of flood-damaged cars in the market.

Many used cars in the market today are flood damaged cars that are simply cleaned up and re-sold. Before buying a used car, have the title checked; words like "salvage" and "flood damage" are giant red flags. Get a comprehensive history on the car -- if the car has been moved from an area where there has been recent flooding you should be suspicious.

Reasons for Fuel Injector Burning

Fuel injector working principle

The injector atomizes the diesel fuel and sprays it into the combustion chamber. The injector consists mainly of the nozzle and nozzle holder. The main components of fuel injector are as follows:

1. Rod type filter

2. Cap nut

3. Compressing spring

4. Compression pin

5. Cap nut for fixed nozzle

6. Nozzle holder

7. Connect hole for fuel delivery

8. Nozzle holder

9. Connect tube for overflow

10. Shim

11. Pin

12. Nozzle bush

There is no doubt that the nozzle burning will definitely influence the normal operation of the machine. If you find the related causes, you can quickly solve the problems.

1. Long time idling operation

Due to the diesel engine keeps running slowly for a long time, the temperature in the cylinder is low, the fuel combustion is not sufficient, the combustion chamber and fuel injection nozzle are easy to form carbon deposition. So it leads to the deterioration of working conditions for fuel injection nozzle. Especially in winter, it is even more serious under the condition of cold climate. Because the combustion chamber has carbon deposition, heat dissipation is slow, which may cause spray orifice obstruction of the injection nozzle and the oil drip phenomenon may happen. The fuel stays in the nozzle head for a long time, the local high temperature will make the nozzle and thermal insulation jacket burned.

2. The fuel is not clean

Due to there are small particles of impurities in the fuel, the needle valve and needle valve body of the fuel injector will wear. It is possible that the needle valve will be stuck in the needle valve body.Because of needle valve lag, the fuel can't be periodically, quantitatively and quickly sprayed into the combustion chamber, the oil drip phenomenon will appear, which may cause the fuel atomization is not good and the combustion speed is reduced. Due to the burning time of the nozzle is extended, which will make the nozzle and the thermal insulation jacket burned. When such fault occurs, there will be black smoke and chattering phenomenon.

3. Fuel injection time is too late

The fuel injection advance angle is too small which may lead to a late fuel injection time. If it can't be adjusted for a long time, the local high temperature will make the nozzle and thermal insulation jacket burned.

4. Improper assembly

If the nozzle insulation sheath is installed without cleaning, there will be a gap between the fuel injection nozzle and the insulation sheath. The gas enters into the gap, the heat insulation and cooling effect is reduced, which will cause the fuel injection nozzle and the insulation sheath burned. If the thermal insulation sheath is too tight, the nozzle will generate additional stress. Under the combined action of heat alternating load and high pressure of fuel injection, the nozzle will be broken and the needle valve will be stuck. In addition, if the insulation sheath can't get installed during maintenance, the nozzle extends into the combustion chamber more than 4mm above the cylinder head bottom, the heat absorbed by the injection nozzle will increase, which make the nozzle melted.

5. Improper use of the genset

If it lacks of coolant liquid while the unit is at work, the combustion chamber can't be in good state of cooling, which will lead to the high temperature. This is also an important reason to cause the burning of fuel injection nozzle.

Tips for Replacing Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers are essential in all cars to protect the mechanisms. Depending on what type of car you have will determine how much spring the shocks will have. These nifty and important parts also keep the tyres in contact with the ground. They also help to control the movement of the suspension and springs.

The devices work on hydraulic pumps that control the impact the car makes against the road. You will notice that an off-road vehicle will not pick up small imperfections on the road because it has such a powerful device. It also ensures that you have proper braking response to avoid hectic accidents.

Checking your shocks should be done if you dive during heavy braking, hit bumps very hard, or the car is leaking shock fluid. Normal driving can also affect the quality of the shock absorbers over time.

You may need a spring compressor to remove the springs on the shock absorbers. The compressor is necessary if the springs are interrelated or integrated. You will need to be careful when doing this as the springs are loaded with high pressure and sudden releasing could be dangerously damaging.

Using a jack stand to lift the car will help you when replacing the parts. You will need to lift the one side of the car at least thirty centimetres off the ground to make the process easier. Similar to changing the tyre, you will need to remove the wheel too. You will be able to see the shock absorbers as they look like springs. This is where you will need to use the spring compressor for safe removal. You will also come across three bolts that will need to be removed using a socket wrench.

Installing new parts is the simple part. You will need to use a torque wrench when tightening the bolts to ensure stability. Putting the wheel and tyre back in place will complete the replacing of the shock absorbers.

It is important that you take the car for a slow drive to test the stability of your work. If you start to notice strange sounds it would be wise to have a mechanic check out the problem. Wiggle the car and go over humps as well to test if the shocks have been installed correctly.

Lack of properly working shock absorbers could result in damaged wheels and wheel axles then you'll need to visit a wheel supplier for a new set of wheels. The wheel axle is part of the drive shaft and could lead to a hectic repairing fee if damaged.

A1 Wheel and Tyre is a private family owned and operated company specialising in the warehouse and distribution of wheels and tyres to the automotive fitment trade. The company has a well established operation in Johannesburg, South Africa.

All About Auto Glass Repair

Poor driving, bad weather conditions or even some man-made reasons can become the cause of the damage to your vehicle's windshield or even the other glass windows or the back glass. However, the first question that arises in our mind as soon as we see a crack or damage to the glass is its repair or replacement cost. However, the cost might vary as per the quality of repair or replacement along with the availability. Before that, let us know in brief about the auto glass repair services. Along with that, also let us know the conditions where you must opt for a repair and where you should prefer to go for a replacement instead.

Repair or Replace?

Gone are the days when even a small crack in the windscreen would demand a whole replacement of the windscreen along with leaving a hole in your pockets. However, with the advancement in the modern technologies, not only has it become possible to repair the windscreens with perfection, but the process is cost-effective too.

However, if your windscreen faces a major damage, which can be a considered as a length of more than 3 inches, most of the service providers might advise a replacement. Moreover, along with the extent of damage, the factor that might affect the repair of the glass might also be the location of damage. Damage at particular places might not be able to be repaired or might have chances of spreading rapidly. For the exact repair information, consulting a professional might be the best option.

The Repair Process:

Unlike the replacement process, which includes the removal of the entire glass and installation of a new one in its place, the repair process includes the curing polishing of the damaged portion. If the crack is small, the repairs are mostly successful along with providing efficient strength and clarity, making the glass as good as new.

The cost of Repair?

In terms of cost-effectiveness, a repair is much cheaper than a full repair, and for small damages, for the same reason, a repair is advisable. However, if the damage is big or there is a chance of re-occurrence of the crack or damage, going for repair would cost you double fold as you would be required to replace the glass anyhow.

However, if you have decided to go for a repair for your damaged windshield or glass, do not wait till the damage actually starts to become an issue. If the minor damage is not treated immediately, it is most probable that the condition will worsen and even might make the repair not possible and you would be forced into going for a replacement and paying much more, even if when you could have had it done for much less money. Moreover, there are several service providers that might provide a mobile service and come up to your home space or office to repair your damaged windscreen, without you, having to take out time from your busy schedule.

Tips to Buy a Quality Power Brake Booster

What is a power brake booster? In case you don't know, this is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. While driving, when you apply the brakes of your vehicle, you feel a pressure. This pressure is generated by the brake booster. On the other hand, if you don't feel the pressure, know that the device is not doing its job in an efficient manner. In this case, what you need to do is get it fixed or replaced. Let's read about some tips that can help you buy one.

How do they work?

The brake booster starts its job as soon as you hit the pedal to reduce the speed of your vehicle. If you open up this device, you will see two chambers divided by a strong diaphragm. When you hit the gas pedal, the chambers become free of air. What happens is that the system sucks all the air out based on how hard you hit the brakes. The higher the pressure, the higher the amount of air that is sucked out of the chamber.

How to buy one?

If you are interested in buying this device for your car, know that they come in two types: hydraulic and vacuum. If you are a beginner and have no idea about which one is good for you, we suggest that you follow the tips given below. They will make it easier for you to choose the best device to meet your needs.

Hydraulic

These devices can be seen working in engines that are fueled by diesel and comprise a steering pump. This pump is full of a hydraulic fluid that is put in an accumulator.

As soon as you put pressure on the pedal, air pressure gets released. This process generates a tremendous amount of pressure, which can be as high as 2,000 psi. However, there is a disadvantage of this system. This system cuts down on the horsepower as it makes use of a good deal of electric power to work optimally.

Vacuum

Another type of brake booster is known as the vacuum power brake booster. When you step on the brake pedal, the air inside the diaphragm is forced out. As a result, your vehicle slows down to prevent a possible crash or accident. So, they can be a great choice for your vehicle, especially if you own a large vehicle for commercial purposes.

The biggest benefit of using a vacuum power brake booster is that if the engine of your vehicle stalls, you can still use the brakes. However, in this case, you will have to push with more force. You may want to ensure that your units are tested for vacuum for reliability.

So, these are two types of power brake boosters for a vehicle. If you are going to buy one, make sure you know the type of device your vehicle needs. If you have no idea about it, you can consult an expert. Lastly, if you want to maintain your vehicle, make sure you keep the power brake booster in the best condition.

Best Practices for Proper Headlight Maintenance

Your vehicle's headlights are a vital safety component being that they are one of your first lines of defense while navigating the road at night. Without proper visibility, drivers have trouble seeing where they are going, putting them at risk of collision. It is critically important to regularly inspect your lights for any needed adjustments or repairs, and to follow the best practices for vehicular headlight safety.

Continue reading to learn what you should be doing to make sure your headlights stay in great condition, and where to get expert automotive advice you can trust.

Choose Quality Headlights

You can opt for basic headlights, but keep in mind that there is a whole market of higher-quality parts to choose from. Higher-grade headlights come with options such as whiter lights, enhanced visibility, extended depth perception, reduced glare, improved contrast, and more. Depending on your individual needs, you may be safer with a higher quality headlight set.

Don't Let Them Burn Out

Replace your headlights before they have a chance to burn out completely. Check them regularly, at night, for differences in brightness and color. If you notice a decrease in vibrancy, or simply cannot remember when the last time your headlights were replaced, get them replaced immediately.

Always Buy in Pairs

Even if only one headlight is burnt out or dim, it is important to always replace them both at the same time. This is more cost-effective and safer. A new bulb paired with an older bulb can produce uneven lighting on the road. This is not only dangerous for a driver and their passengers, but for other drivers on the road as well.

Install Headlights On Your Own

You don't necessarily need to spend extra money on professional headlight replacement services if you are a handy person. There are several online tutorials that will show you how to replace headlight bulbs with ease. However, if you are not a project-type or handyman-type person, it is not recommended to install headlights on your own.

Talk to a Mechanic

Even if you are a handy person, or know a thing or two about auto repair, it is best to talk to your trusted mechanic about proper automotive maintenance and care. They will guide you in the right direction, and recommend a maintenance schedule that you can do on your own.

Finding Your Auto Repair Shop

Every household in urban and suburban cities own at least one automobile. They are an important part of the family. With time, automobiles have become advanced and complex technological beings. It is not as easy to maintain them at home as it used to be. With the advancement in computers and engine systems, it is critical that an expert with ample experience and training get involved. This is also because the consumers lead a very fast life. Therefore, it is important to identify a trusted and reliable auto repair shop for your vehicle needs.

Before looking at how to find a resourceful auto shop for vehicle repairs and maintenance, let us understand the difference between these two terms. Maintenance items are shared with the owner at the time of purchase. These are to be checked as part of preventive maintenance at regular intervals. Repairs deal more with a problem that has to be fixed. Both go hand in hand. If you have a good auto repair shop who can do the maintenance check well, then the need for car repairs will reduce. Scheduled maintenance can also be done at your dealership.

A key thing to remember is to find a suitable auto repair shop as soon as you get a car. Do not wait for the need to arise. This will give you less time to choose a shop. If you already have a trusted mechanic, then stick to that shop. An internet hunt can let you know the auto repair shops in your area with reviews and customer responses. Try to avoid choosing a place that is too far away and becomes inconvenient during emergencies. Another option is to do this old style. Talk to friends, family and even directly to different mechanics.

Look for an auto repair shop that suits your car brand. Many shops today have a brand or model of vehicle they specialize in. Use this information to narrow down the shops that will work for you. Once you decide on a shop, ask for two important things -

1. Ask them about guarantees and warranties they offer. See if the options are making   sense to you as a consumer.

2. This is important, ask for the shop's certification. The auto repair shop should be certified and have relevant authorization.

The final thing that you can do is to try out two to three auto repair shops for maintenance. A car is a long-term asset. Therefore, invest time in finding the best auto repair shop for your car.

A Checklist For Your Auto Maintenance

Auto maintenance is the most important duty that a vehicle owner has. Any proud car owner can tell you that. If you want your car to live a long life and perform well, then you want to ensuring regular maintenance checks are key. Other than ensuring a lasting life for your vehicle there are also many other reasons to do timely car maintenance. Keep reading to understand why auto maintenance is important. You can also find below a list of the things that go on your checklist to make better keep tabs on this process.

The first and most important reason is safety. Any fault in the car such as worn out tires, faulty brakes or engine issues may not be obvious to the owner until it is too late. Regular maintenance helps get this out of the way and ensures your safety. A well-maintained vehicle also gives better performance and reliability. With regular check-ins at the auto shop, your visit for repairs will reduce. This makes things easier and more cost-effective. Especially because of preventive maintenance costs lesser than actual repairs.

As the old saying goes, "An once of prevention, is worth a pound of cure." In other words, take care of your vehicle and it will cost you much less to own in the long run. Also, it is much easier to plan and budget for maintenance than it is for when a breakdown happens at the worst time and causing you to be greatly inconvenienced. Not to mention the expense that was not planned and usually at a much higher expense.

Regular maintenance also keeps the car looking fresh and stainless. Dents, scratches, faded paint are also things that can be taken care of during a regular maintenance routine. A well-maintained car is eventually much easier to sell. If you would like the option of being able to sell your car at a good price to be open, then auto maintenance will do that for you.

And finally, all of us are aware that vehicles can emit harmful gasses. A car that has its engines, automotive fluids, and emissions checked regularly causes lesser harm to the environment. Of course, there is always the option of purchasing hybrid automobiles that are environmentally friendly. Few automobile companies such as Tesla, Ford, and Toyota offer this.

Below is a basic checklist for your auto or car maintenance. The table below may not be an exhaustive list. The list can be printed out and used to check with at the auto maintenance workshop before picking up your vehicle. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle means a happier and safer driver behind its wheels.

Items on your checklist

Mark as done/not done

Engine lights

Lights

Tire pressure and condition

Windshield washer fluid

Air filter

Transmission fluid

Battery and cables

Belts

Exhaust

Fuel filter

Hoses

Oil filter

Power steering fluid

Chassis lubrication

Wiper blades

Polish

Antifreeze

Spark plugs

Steering and Suspension

Auto Repair: Know When to Repair a Windshield

When thinking of different things that keep us safe during a drive, we rarely even think about the windshield. But the truth is - the windshield of your vehicle is more important than you think. Anyone who has been driving for a long time would have come across this situation: a dented or cracked windshield. Early drivers tend to ignore this because it does appear to be something that could cause any major damages to the vehicle or the driver. And you would postpone the repair until there is time and money to do this. But that time will never come. Getting your windshield fixed is an easy part of an auto repair. It is important and can be done even from home.

Cracked Windshield

The windshield is a two-layered laminated glass. This laminate is made of vinyl plastic which is very strong. The windshield accounts for nearly 20% of the strength of the car. It plays a major role in keeping you safe. With the advancement in technology, the process of placing the windshield has become a computer controlled process. It has been designed to work with the other safety devices in the car. For instance, the airbags need a strongly bonded windshield in order to work correctly. Thus, it is important to get even a tiny crack on the windshield repaired. Ignoring it may put the life of the driver in danger.

AUTO REPAIR:

The costs for replacing the entire windshield costs $300 and repairing a crack or a chip in the windshield could cost around $100 or lesser. There are also many kits available for you to repair the windshield yourself. These kits can be purchased from Amazon and in large stores that sell auto parts such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Sears, and AutoZone. The kit will consist of the adhesive seal, windscreen repair resin, curing film, pedestal and a safety razor. Once you have the kit, park your car in your garage or somewhere indoors. Use a pain to clear out any broken glass from the windshield and leave it to dry. The instructions on how to use the kit will be available with the package. If the directions are unclear, the best option is to take the car to an auto repair workshop.

Another consideration is your car insurance. If you carry comprehensive coverage, then windshield repair can be included in your coverage. Be sure to check your deductibles as this will be required to be paid first. In some states, there is no deductible for windshield damage, as it is considered a safety related repair.

At the end of the day, the important thing is that any windshield repairs are fixed immediately and you are no longer vulnerable to any potential accidents.

Tips for Your UTE Maintenance

A modern vehicle is an expensive investment that for those of us is not a luxury item, but a necessity. To get the best from your Ute it is important to look after and maintain it in the best condition possible. This not only helps to ensure your safety but helps to maintain its value. Today's modern vehicles are very sophisticated and many aspects of a complete service are best left to a professional mechanic, but there are a number of maintenance steps you can take yourself to ensure your driving safety and pleasure, avoid unnecessary break downs accidents and help maintain your Utes value.

These simple stress free maintenance steps should be done regularly between full workshop services and before any long trip you take. But the first thing you should do when you get a vehicle is to familiarise yourself with the owner's handbook where you will find diagrams and instructions for your particular model of Ute.

Checking your Engine Oil, Transmission Fluid, Power Steering Fluid and Brake Fluid levels

The first thing is to locate your dipstick, in a manual vehicle there is only one, but an auto will also have one for the transmission fluid so be sure the verify which one it is engine oil before filling. (It should say on the top). It is usually colored plastic knob that is formed into a loop or has a rounded top that your finger can fit through to make it easier to pull out.

Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the end clean so you can inspect it and tell where the fill and empty lines.

Insert the dipstick back into the engine, then pull it out again. The dipstick will go down into the engine sump and tells you how much oil is there.

You can then read how much oil is there. The ideal oil level is at the full mark. If the oil is above the halfway mark it is safe to leave it as there will be enough oil, but take note of this and check the level again after a few 100km.

If it is below the halfway mark, then add the recommended oil for your engine. (Diesel engine oil has special cleaners added to deal with any carbon build up. Petrol engines have different additives) It is best to add only 200ml at a time and then recheck and add a bit more if needed to ensure you do not overfill the engine (A very slight overfill is generally OK)

If you have your vehicle serviced at the manufactures recommended times and check the oil regularly and suddenly it has fallen it may be because you have gone past the service life of the oil and it is advisable to have it serviced and checked at a mechanic shop

Check the transmission oil in the same way and use the recommended transmission fluid.

The brake reservoir is on top of, or very near, the brake master cylinder, a clear white plastic screw top container with a viewing area so you can check the fluid level and top up if needed.

Cooling System

Check the coolant in the radiator (do not use plain water as an adequate anticorrosive is needed to stop electrolysis.

Check the visual condition of the rubber hoses around the cooling system and squeeze them to ensure the hoses are firm and have not gone soft.

Electrical System

With the assistance of another person who is outside the Ute to monitor the lights check their operation.

Check the indicators, park and brake lights as well as reversing and number plate light. It is also important to ensure your Headlights are working, both full beam and dipped as well as spotlights.

Check that all the instrument lights are working on the dashboard usually these will all light up when you turn on the ignition to the 2nd stage just before it activated the starter motor.

Check the horn and that all power windows operate correctly, it is important they work without the motor running in emergency conditions.

Engine Belts

Check the condition of the drive belts between the engine and Alternator, some vehicles have several belts, driving the air-con, pump the power brake pump, water pump. If your Ute is fitted with a back tray, not a molded body, it may have a hydraulic lift pump connected to the engine or a separate electric hydraulic pump, the fluids and any belts of these need to be checked as well.

Filters; Fuel, Oil and Air

It is important to have a clean air cleaner, especially if you travel in dusty areas. Remove the cleaner and blow compressed air through it to remove any dust. If it is really soiled there are companies that clean them or you can purchase a new one. Many vehicles are now fitted with pollen and dust filters on the air-conditioning system so these also need to be checked and cleaned where necessary

The fuel filter needs to be changed regularly as it can become clogged from contaminants in the fuel and any moisture in your tank, see the manufacturer's instructions.

The oil filter is best left up to your service center unless you have adequate facilities to collect and deal with the waste oil (this can be very messy).

Windscreen Washer and Wipers

Check the liquid level in the windscreen washer reservoir and top it up if necessary with a good quality windscreen washer solution. Over long dry periods the hot sun, the wiper blades can become brittle, so need to be checked and replaced as needed as well.

Tyres

Your vehicle tyres are very important and maintaining the correct tyre pressure will increase your fuel economy and your Ute will handle and brake better.

Checking the wear of your tyres is a good way to gauge the condition of your Utes suspension. It the tyres are wearing unevenly if probably means you need to have this checked.

Tyre rotation is where you change the tyres by placing the left front tyre on the right rear and the left rear on the right front about every 10,000k will help to extend the life of your tyres.

For safety's sake it is a very bad policy to use 2ndhand tyres because the modern tyre is synthetic unlike the tyres of 30 years ago that were mainly rubber. These modern tyres start to break down and only have a safe life of 3 to 5 years even if not being used. Pure rubber tyres such as nylon tryes (not steel belted) are the opposite and get stronger with age, but they are more inclined to get punctured and usually reserved for offroad conditions think Lugg tyres.