Your Guide to Everything with a Motor
Vehicles
The Rapid Vehicle Motor Company
Jan 5th
The Rapid Motor Vehicle Company was started in 1902 by Max Grabowski.
It was the manufacturer of some of the earliest trucks and was purchased in 1909 by GM. In 1912 the name GMC was first used at the New York Auto Show and in 1996 the suffix Truck was dropped.
What most people don’t know is that GMC also makes cars.
In 1902 Max Grabowski founded a company called the “Rapid Motor Vehicle Company”, which developed some of the earliest commercial trucks ever designed. In 1909 the company was bought by General Motors to form the basis of the General Motors Truck Company, from which GMC Truck was made. In 1912 the name “GMC Truck” was first shown at the New York Auto Show. In 1996 GM dropped the word ‘truck’ from the GMC Truck name, thus creating the GMC name as we know it today. There never was a Grabowski Motor Company or a Grabowski Motor Corp.
They now make personal automobiles, as well as pickup truck and bus engines.
General Motors Corporation NYSE: GM, also known as GM, is a United States-based automobile maker with worldwide operations and brands including Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Daewoo, GMC, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saturn, Saab, and Vauxhall Chevrolet and GMC divisions produce trucks, as well as passenger vehicles. Other brands include ACDelco, Allison Transmission, and General Motors Electro-Motive Division that produces diesel-electric locomotives. GM also has stakes in Isuzu, Subaru, and Suzuki in Japan and a joint venture with AutoVAZ (Lada) in Russia. In December 2003, it acquired Delta in South Africa, in which it had taken a 45 percent stake in 1997, and which is now a fully-owned subsidiary, General Motors South Africa.
GM’s headquarters are in the Renaissance Center in Detroit, Michigan.
General Motors is the world’s largest vehicle manufacturer and employs over 340,000 people. In 2001, GM sold 8.5 million vehicles through all its branches. In 2002, GM sold 15 percent of all cars and trucks in the world. They also owned Electronic Data Systems from 1984 to 1996 which is a former Ross Perot company and, prior to selling it to News Corporation, DirecTV. GM owned Frigidaire from 1918 to 1979.
The current chairman (since May 1, 2003) and chief executive officer (since June 1, 2000) is Rick Wagoner, succeeding John F. Smith, Jr.
General Motors is selling its 20 percent stake in Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent of Subaru, in a deal that could raise more than $700 million as per news released on October 6, 2005.
Also, General Motors Canada auto workers voted on Sunday to ratify a new contract that will lay off 1,000 workers over the next three years, the Canadian Auto Workers and GM said.
General Motors lost 2.5 billion dollars last year, and would have made a profit if it was not saddled with 6 billion dollars in health costs.
The UAW and GM are now reaching agreement to reduce this health cost by about 1 billion dollars annually.
The Quick Guide To Buying A Vehicle
Jan 3rd
Buying a car will most likely be one of the largest purchases you make in your life and so its importance cannot be understated. With such a huge array of vehicles to choose from, throughout the various price ranges, research will be the key to a successful purchase. When you are thinking about buying a car there is one important factor to appreciate in financial terms nearly all vehicles are liabilities. That is they LOSE money and are an added burden to your finances not only the initial purchase but also the insurance, gas costs, repairs and then the depreciation when you come to sell it.
That said, they are also fast becoming an essential possession in the modern world only major cities have comprehensive public transport systems, so to get around at your convenience there is only one option buy a car.
The first item to consider is the method of payment for the vehicle buy to own or lease over a period of time. Either way you will need to calculate your budget to see what you can afford not only up front or monthly payments but also the following:
1. How reliable a make of car it is are the parts expensive?
2. How long is the warranty period and how comprehensive is it?
3. How much does the insurance cost?
4. What are the service intervals and how much do they cost?
5. The economy of the vehicle compared with the type and distance of driving you normally do.
6. Style of vehicle do you need a truck or SUV for local/inner city driving? How many passengers do you carry?
7. How long will you want to keep it? (Marriage, kids or relocation?) Dont sign up for expensive 5 year financing if you only want to keep it for 12 months.
8. What is the MRP of the vehicle always look for discount.
9. What is the resale value of the vehicle is the depreciation high?
Methods of Purchasing
1. Buy new This is fast becoming a more affordable method of buying a car and you can either pay cash up front (if youre lucky), arrange your own financing or take out the financing from the car dealer (if buying from a dealer). Most domestic manufacturers will offer either large discounts for cash payment or 0% financing over a period of up to 5 years. The imported vehicles (far eastern/European) are very popular and most dont need to offer such large incentives for sales as the reliability and economy of their products are in high demand.
There seems to be 2 major factors when choosing a new vehicle price over quality. A Japanese / European imports have the quality but you will pay handsomely for it a North American vehicle (GM, Ford, Chrysler/Dodge) definitely have the price and incentives so that will come down to personal choice.
2. Buy used The most likely choice of many of us either through a private sale or a used car dealer. Many private transactions are completed due to reasonable pricing (agreed between the seller and purchaser) that is normally based upon the condition of the vehicle (any crashes or service history), the age, and fair market value. The main drawback is that these sales are completed sold as seen and there is very often little or no comeback should the vehicle subsequently fail shortly after the transfer of ownership.
It is a necessity to have the vehicle history checked if you are committing to a private transaction. If the vehicle is stolen or has finance owing on it there is a very strong chance of it being repossessed should it be uncovered. These checks also show the last known mileage (prevents clock tampering) and also any reported collision damage (written off and then rebuilt) and for a small fee can save an awful lot of heartache and financial difficulties.
If you buy from a reputable dealer you will pay more for the vehicle but will normally be able to trade in any old vehicle. Again you will not be paid too much for the trade in but not having to worry about the sale of the old vehicle may well offset that. You should also have a decent warranty with the vehicle you buy which may be the balance of the manufacturers warranty or up to 3 months from the dealer. If it is a dealer warranty, make sure you fully understand what is and more importantly isnt covered the small print must be read and understood. Depending upon the size of the dealership, you may be able to purchase an extended warranty, again check what is covered and for how long you really dont need any surprises when the problems arise.
3. Auctions are another method of purchasing which can save you a lot of cash if you are brave enough. You will have the chance to look over the vehicles prior to the auction and the auction company will usually run some background checks to avoid selling stolen cars. If you know what you are doing this can really be a cost effective way of buying a car but also probably the one with the highest risk.
4. Lease This entails a down payment (normally) followed by a monthly payment which will be less than the financing of a new vehicle payment. This method isnt everyones idea of monetary sense as you make payments but will never have any equity at the end of the lease term. The major benefits are that you will be able to have a new car every few years (usually before the warranty period expires) and simply give the vehicle back in exchange for the next new one. You will most likely have a pre agreed limit on mileage that will cost you extra should you surpass it and you will be liable for the servicing costs.
Whether you are buying a car – new or used – never pay the price on show these are heavily inflated and you should be able to negotiate a substantial discount. If not go somewhere else you are the customer that they should be bending over backwards to please. Do not be afraid to walk out on a dealership if you are unhappy with whats on offer and definitely visit several different dealerships and play them off against each other to gain a favorable price.
More detailed information on Buying a Car can be found at /buying_a_car.html
The New Realities Of Used-Car Shopping – Good Car Deals
Dec 31st
The New Realities Of Used-Car Shopping – Good Car Deals Possible With Internet Marketing
A flood of fresh vehicles and the explosion of Internet marketing greatly improve your odds of getting a goodness deal. When Olga Humblias slips behind the wheel of her silver BMW 740iL, she knows a couple of secrets that no one seeing her sleek driving machine would suspect. One: She bought it secondhand–it’s a ’97 that started its life with a two-year, 26,000-mile lease. Two: Her monthly payment for the $70,000-plus beauty is just $240.
Not at all surprising is that once she hits the roads around her home in Upper Saddle River, N.J., the 4.4-liter, 32-valve V-8 performs so wellspring that Humblias might as fountainhead be driving in the venerable Le Mans auto race. “The cable car rides and handles so swell you rich person to constantly watch the speedometer,” says the real estate agent, smiling. She besides has to keep a close eye on her husband, Charles, himself a BMW enthusiast, who jumps at any chance to drive her auto.
The couple’s satisfaction with the automobile–the first exploited they wealthy person ever purchased–symbolizes how the remainder of the millennium is ushering in the best of times for ill-used-machine buyers. One reason is the phenomenal growth of leasing. Nearly 33% of the 1999 vehicles rolling out of showrooms will be leased, not purchased. When leases remnant, relatively new to(p), good-cared-for models come back to the market, often with their prices showing more wear and tear than their tires.
To earn the manufacturer’s stamp of approval–and the extensive guarantee that goes with it–these cars must pass a thorough inspection and undergo any necessary reconditioning. The dealer does the work which, according to Moody of Swope Honda, adds approximately $500 to the price of the –$370 for mechanical repairs and the rest for cosmetics. “These cars are in mint condition,” he says. Approved vehicles carry a limited warrant for up to 6 days or 72,000 miles, the cost of which is too passed on to the buyer. Honda dealers, for example, earnings $329 for the company’s certified imprimatur for cars.Luxury brands, including BMW and Lexus, routinely offer 24-hour roadside assistance for their approved put-upon cars. What if the victimized you’re drawn to hasn’t been so blessed. Should you spring for an wide warrantee.
It can make sense if the ‘s original has expired or is close to to. “The client needs the full benefit of a overhaul contract the is five or VI old age old or has 70,000 to 85,000 miles on it,” says George Weber, marketing manager for elongated-inspection and repair plans for Ford’s -serving division. A beneficial should cover major components such as the engine, transmission and axles, as easily as the brakes (not the pads), air conditioning, heater, blower motors, compressors, evaporator, suspension and steering components.
The electronic system–critically important to nowadays’s technologically advanced cars–should likewise be covered, including emission controls. Expect to remuneration between $700 and $1,200 for coverage that extends the warrant), to 75,000 or 100,000 miles, but remember that prices are negotiable. Many plans now allow deductibles of up to just about $200. Answers: Nissan: A; Infiniti: A; Chevrolet: B; Honda: B.
The Lowdown On Looking After High-End Autos
Dec 28th
As publisher of Celeb-rity car magazine, I see the specs for some of the world’s most desirable automobiles. The celebrities that appear in the magazine know how to be seen, and nothing grabs attention like a high-powered vehicle. But owning a cutting-edge vehicle does more than add another accessory to a portfolio of luxurious items. It inducts you into an elite club, complete with the privileges and responsibilities of maintaining a vehicle that needs “special attention.”
For celebrities and amateurs alike, here are a few expert tips to keep these beauties purring for years to come:
1. Preventive Maintenance.
Every month, check key fluids such as oil, coolant, power steering and transmission. Use high-quality products as recommended by the manufacturer for any top-up or fluid replacement. Also, make sure to follow proper OEM recommendations and visit a specialist for a tune-up, replacing spark plugs, changing oil and lubricating your engine as needed. Don’t forget to regularly change your wiper blades, too. If Mother Nature rains down on your joyride, you want to be ready and safe.
2. Build a Relationship with a Good Mechanic.
You own a specialty car-it’s time to find a specialty auto mechanic. Don’t be afraid to ask your specialist about the causes of problems you notice, either. It makes you a better owner and helps build rapport.
Owners of classic cars especially need to do this. When parts that operate perfectly for 40 years begin to break down, it’s vital that your mechanic is familiar with your golden oldie.
3. Use Top Tier, High-Octane Fuel.
Pay attention to the gasoline your high-performance engine is burning. All gasoline available today should meet minimum detergency requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency, but according to some automakers, that is not enough to keep critical engine parts free of carbon deposits. Recognizing that a cleaner engine performs better, BMW, GM, Honda and Toyota developed a Top Tier Detergent Gasoline standard that exceeds the EPA standard and raises the bar on fuel quality. Fuels meeting this standard can enhance your engine’s performance because they’re designed to keep intake valves and fuel injectors free of deposits. Shell V-Power actually surpasses that standard with two times the amount of detergency required by the Top Tier Detergent Gasoline standard. These cleaning agents actively clean carbon deposits that low-quality fuels leave behind, giving your car better performance.
4. Invest in Quality Tires.
Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the ground, so they’re one of the best ways to give your car added performance. Every product has a class, from engines to gasoline, and tires are no different. Make sure your wheels have an optimum strength-to-weight ratio and minimal rotational inertia. Find a tire brand you trust and make sure the speed rating gives you freedom on the open road. Also, be sure you check the tire pressure on a regular basis in order to get the best performance and mileage. Improperly inflated tires can be dangerous. To find the proper pressure for your tires, check the number on the inside of the gas door or on the inside of the side door, not the number that appears on the tires themselves. Remember, your vehicle manufacturer always knows best.
5. Detail on a Regular Basis.
Last, but certainly not least, maintain the form of your car as well as its function. Having your beauty detailed regularly by an expert is a no-brainer. Like at the pump, the car wash is not the place to start being frugal. Protect your dashboard from sun damage with a sun shield or a protective polish, like Black Magic Pro Shine Protectant. Other motorists are watching, so make sure to give your car a good cleaning at least once every two months.
Whether you’re a first-time high-end owner or a sharp-eyed collector, treat your ride right, because your high-performance automobile is a powerful machine that makes driving more adventurous and luxurious.
The Lowdown On Bucket Trucks
Dec 27th
Bucket trucks are mainly used in heavy industries and one can spot them along the roadsides without much trouble. For instance, you can see people doing work at heights or repairing telephone connections on poles or fixing something at heights. If this is so then you have seen a bucket truck. Bucket truck is used to lift workers to places at heights.
These trucks come in a number of shapes and sizes just to make-work easy. Bucket trucks are used in many different purposes but the most common is power lineman. With the use of these types of additional equipments, they can complete work in less time. Bucket trucks are very safe for people who work at severe heights.
The design given to the bucket truck includes a storage bin, which is capable of holding tools, instruments and material required by the worker. To provide extra stability some bucket trucks are specifically designed with single or double arm outrigger jacks. Some designs are operated by the auxiliary engine, which is placed on the back section of the bucket truck, while some of them powered by actual truck engine.
One must keep in mind that the bucket truck makes work easier, comfortable, and safe and it is easy to operate but still it is heavy equipment that requires a proper handling. It requires a very minimum maintenance.
Bucket trucks come under OSHA standard guidelines, which must be followed for the safety. Here are some important guidelines how to use a bucket truck conveniently:
The bucket truck can be constructed of fiberglass, reinforced plastic, metal, or wood. The truck should be used to elevate employees to any job site located above ground.
Controls must be clearly and visibly marked and defined by function.
Bucket trucks may be modified for use other than the intended use but only if the manufacturer or equal authority receives approval to the modification in writing.
Load and distribution should always be checked to make sure they fall within the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The brakes must be set.
Bucket trucks should not be driven if employees are there in the bucket.
Controls should be tested every day prior to the bucket truck being used.
The lower controls should not be operated without the permission of the employee in the bucket expect in the case of an emergency.
Any employee operating the bucket truck must wear appropriate protective gear at all times including safety boots, safety goggles, gloves, a hardhat, etc. to protect from falling objects.
For the business owners, the key to safety is training. If one will operate the bucket truck using OSHA guidelines, this piece of heavy equipment can provide yearlong support with minimum maintenance expenditure.
The Ins And Outs Of Auto Insurance
Dec 26th
Bodily Injury Liability, Collision, Comprehensive, Property Injury Liability. Do you know what these terms mean? If you are currently paying for any type of auto insurance, then these are some terms you should know to maximize the benefits of your plan(s).
Bodily Injury Liability. If you were at fault in an accident and others involved needed to go to the hospital and/or lost wages from missing work, those costs would come out of your pocket if you are not insured with Bodily Injury Liability. Anyone will soon realize how quickly those amounts can add up to. Many states require you to carry Bodily Injury Liability. This type of coverage can also help you in the event the other party takes legal action against you.
Collision Coverage. In the event you need repairs or replacements if your vehicle collides with another vehicle or property, youll need this. The higher the deductible you elect, the lower your premiums will cost you. If youre at fault for something, well of course it would still be an accident, as I doubt youd plan to run into that guard rail, but how much would you be able to afford to pay out of pocket for repairs? Dont forget to check if this coverage is available in your plan!
Comprehensive Coverage. This is the coverage that pays for damage caused from falling objects, fire, certain natural disasters, theft and vandalism.
Property Injury Liability. Can you imagine how much it might cost should you accidentally drive into someones house? You wouldnt want to be caught without property damage insurance should you need to pay for repairs to another vehicle, building or anything else you might hit. As they say, you can never be too sure what you may run into while driving!
With these different types of liability coverage, youll quickly discover that unfortunate accidents soon become less dreadful then they seem. For example, imagine if you crashed into the rear-end of another driver. Your liability coverage will kick in and pay for the damages that you caused with your insured vehicle. Imagine having to pay those damage costs yourself out of pocket!
Its important that you understand the basics of what you are paying for and why it is necessary. By knowing these technical terms, you can make sure your auto insurance coverage is as complete and reliable as possible.
The Importance Of The Electric Car
Dec 26th
If you are like most people and driving and other forms of travel is essential to your work and life otherwise than this article is for you. With gasoline prices finally getting as high in this country as they have been in the rest of the world for some time people are starting to feel the crunch that it is causing on their budgets. Enter the electric car the so called savior of personal transportation in this country.
The technology that makes the electric car possible has been with us for decades now. There is little reason for them not to be mainstream now other than the fact that oil has been a huge part of our economy and that we use so much that we have been getting bargain prices for all of these years. Now that the bargains are vanishing though alternative fuel sources and other alternative means of getting around are becoming more priority as expected.
This is making a lot of people happy too. Lots of people are especially worried about the environment and the effect of burning so many fossil fuels and creating the green house gases responsible for global warming. This is especially true now that Al Gores movie has been released raising the concern to new heights. So besides the economy of the electric car the cleanliness with respect to the environment is also a major appeal.
The electric car is not the only new form of transportation that is on the table however. The hybrid cars are receiving stiff competition from other alternative fuels like ethanol and hydrogen cells. These are both very renewable sources of energy and have very clean working engines. The hydrogen cells are especially cool because the only byproduct of combustion in this engine is water! Nothing could be cleaner than the environment than water. Well see probably in 20 years when hydrogen cells are mainstream we will find out that the extra production of water is going to flood our country with rising sea levels and throw the planets spin off kilter or some crap like that. But for now I am excited with all of this new technology.
The Importance of Auto Accessories
Dec 24th
Auto accessories play a key role in smartening up a vehicle and keeping it looking top notch. These accessories are supplementary components that improve the capability of a vehicle, and in fact play a cardinal role in the entire process of auto care.
Car Care:
Car care involves comprehensive care and attention to interior and exterior accessories, body, tires, engine and other mechanical parts. This is necessary to keep the vehicle in top performance and appearance.
Interior car accessories may include dash covers, car seat covers, mirrors, shifter knobs, aftermarket steering wheels, steering wheel covers, fuel consumption meters, window tint film, stereo system, mobile video or DVD players, floor mats, and air fresheners.
Car seat covers can be purchased in various materials and designs, depending on ones preference. These include leather seat covers, sheepskin seat covers, custom car seat covers and infant car seat covers.
Exterior accessories may consist of styling body kits, spoilers, sports mirrors, head and tail light covers, car hood shields, car bras, window visors, car covers, a sunroof, wiper blades, hood scoops, window graphics and wheel caps.
Truck or SUV care:
Undertaking regular care of ones truck or SUV is naturally very important to keep it in top form. This may also involve sourcing and storing various new or second hand truck accessories, depending on the significance or rarity of the parts required.
Some specialized truck accessories include customized truck covers, novelty hitch covers, pickup truck bed covers, and tonneau covers.
Benefits of Auto Accessories:
Auto accessories provide smart looks to a vehicle. If they are of good quality and taste they provide embellishment to a point where a vehicle would look plain and incomplete without them.
The roles of auto accessories are twofold; not only do they smarten up a vehicle, but also help protect the vehicles parts from wear and tear. A good example would be how seat covers protect the seats of a vehicle from body wear and the sun, and how a steering wheel cover not only protects the steering wheel from wear, but provides a good grip for the driver.
Buying Auto Accessories:
Today with the internet, auto accessories can easily be purchased or ordered online. With such a vast array of online auto accessory stores, you can be sure to find exactly what you are looking for.
The Hidden Costs Of Car Leases
Dec 22nd
Be honest- are you one of those people who just loves new cars? I knew it. Thats OK, we are in the same boat. I love new cars just as much as you do. But I like not overpaying just as much if not more than you do. Thats why, when it comes to car leases, I make sure and really get to know my options and whether I should be leasing or buying my vehicles. As Ive learned (the hard way) a few times, there are all sorts of hidden costs involved in leasing a new car. And they arent what you think they are. Lets look at a few of them.
1) The monthly lease payment. Did you know that there are unscrupulous car dealers out there who will blindly rip you off if you let them. Thats right. And your monthly payment might have been arbitrarily made up by one of these dealers on the spot just by looking at you and deciding how much money they should charge you. Make sure and question everything on the lease form and ask in depth questions as to why you should be paying what you are. The fine print can be your friend, use it against the car dealer to negotiate a better deal somewhere else.
2) Keep an eye on your mileage. This is a biggie. A lot of people get wooed by the idea of a lease and its low payments. However, these same people are living the high life until the day comes when they have to finally return their vehicle. This is the day of reckoning because they get charge for overage miles. Its not a pretty site and it can seriously damage your bank account. If you lease your car, make sure your mileage doesnt exceed its limit.
3) The lack of equity. When you buy a car, you own it (or the bank owns the note on it). You dont build equity with a car lease. Your car is basically being rented. Compare the equity costs and gains before deciding on a least.
There are a ton of other hidden costs involved in car leases that make points #1-3 look small by comparison. Learn all about them.
The good, the bad, and the ugly about luxury cars
Dec 20th
The good, the bad, and the ugly about luxury cars
If a $20,000 car is what you got, then a $30,000 car would be better and a $40,000 car ideal, right? The answer to that is the one you all know and love: it depends.
The Good
Lets start with the obvious: youre movin on up and letting the world know it, whether or not its true. That means more respect, better valet treatment, more dates. Luckily, in most cases theres some truth to back up the image. Despite the increasing availability of features on lower-end cars these days, luxury cars still live up to their name by offering materials that look and feel better (i.e. real wood in the dash, real aluminum instead of painted plastic), soft leather (instead of hard leather, or leather mixed with vinyl), better sound insulation all standard. Luxury cars are also held to a higher standard of performance with more cylinders, better brakes and suspensions, and best of all, often trade up from plain front-wheel-drive layouts to rear-wheel-drive, making driving more interesting. Who wouldnt want their commute to be cozier and more fun at the same time? As a bonus, the owning experience will likely be richer all the way through, thanks to more courteous sales/service and a longer warranty.
The Bad
That stuff costs money. Stepping up from a compact-sized car (say, a Mazda 3) to a like-sized luxury car (say, a BMW 3-series) takes a cool dozen grand. Worse, the increase grows exponential as you ascend in the range: from a Honda Accord to an Acura RL takes $25,000, and from a Toyota Avalon to a BMW 750i takes an extra $40,000. In other words, the cost of one big Bimmer is enough for two Avalons and change. And dont forget maintenance costs; ever seen the price of BMW parts?
The Ugly
It used to just be a matter of swallowing the price and writing the check, but many luxury makes have felt the need to prove the worth of their cars by confusing the hell out of the drivers. First it was Mercedes COMAND. Then it was BMWs iDrive by far the worst of the bunch and finally Audis MultiMedia Interface. To a lesser degree, heavy-handed electronics and interfaces have crept into Japanese, American, and British luxury cars as well. What good is that 14-speaker stereo if you have to stop and look up in the manual how to change the station? Some of these electronics have also proven to be quite troublesome, causing the average reliability rankings of their parent companies to nosedive. Nothing luxurious about that.
But if you have the patience and tolerance, the worlds best cars are waiting for you. At a price.
