Auto Aficionado 

You can get your hybrids now

Okay, the New Year is in, and so is the hefty tax breaks for some hybrids out there. For those of you on the lookout to buy a new hybrid vehicle, the time is now. Here are the hybrids that [link=hhttp://www.forbesautos.com/buyersguide/hybrids/2006/05-hybrids-we-recommend.html]Forbes Autos[/link] recommend, plus their respective tax credits:

Best for City Driving: Toyota Prius

Tax credit: $3,150

Best for Long Trips: Lexus RX 400h

Tax credit: $2,200

Best for Towing and Hauling: Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid

Tax credit: $250

Best for Overall Mileage: Honda Insight

Tax credit: $1,450 (for the two-seat Honda Insight ONLY; the manual transmission version doesn't meet emissions requirements so there’s no tax credit.)

Best for Performance: Honda Accord Hybrid

Tax credit: $650

The car that gets the biggest tax credit is the Honda Civic for $3,600 but, unfortunately, this gem of a car is only available to our friends in California.

Should you need top of the line quality auto parts like front bumpers for your Honda Insight, hubcaps for your Honda Civic Hybrid, radiator support for your Toyota Prius or mirrors for your Ford Escape Hybrid – just click over to Auto Parts Discount.

Safe winter driving

I’m pretty sure that by this time, you’ve already had your Honda, Chevy or Volvo all prepped up for winter. You’ve replaced your worn tires and dimmed out headlights with quality auto parts from Auto Parts Discount. Now how should you drive in winter weather?

* Buckle up before you start driving. Keep your seat belt buckled at all times.
* SLOW DOWN! - posted speed limits are for ideal travel conditions. Driving at reduced speeds is the best precautionary measure against any misfortune while driving on slippery roads. "Black ice" is invisible.
* Be alert. Black ice will make a road look like shiny new asphalt. Pavement should look grey-white in winter.
* Do not use cruise control. Winter driving requires you to be in full control at all times.
* Reduce your speed while approaching intersections covered with ice or snow.
* Allow for extra traveling time or even consider delaying a trip if the weather is inclement.
* Drive with low-beam headlights on. Not only are they brighter than daytime running lights but turning them on also activates the tail lights. This makes your vehicle more visible.
* Lengthen your following distance behind the vehicle ahead of you. Stopping distance on an icy road is double that of stopping on a dry one. For example, from around 45 meters (140 ft) at the speed of 60 km/h, to 80 meters (over 260 ft) on an icy road surface.
* Stay in the right-hand lane except when passing and use turn signals when changing lanes.
* Steer with smooth and precise movements. Changing lanes too quickly and jerky steering while braking or accelerating can cause skidding.
* Be aware and slow down when you see a sign warning that you are approaching a bridge. Steel and concrete bridges are likely to be icy even when there is no ice on the asphalt surface, (because bridges over open air cool down faster than roads which tend to be insulated somewhat by solid ground.)
* Consider getting off the road before getting stranded if the weather is worsening.
* Be patient and pass other cars only when it is safe to do so.

There. If you’re careful enough, you can survive the winter season without a scratch.

Need new city car?

So you’ve just moved to the city. Everything seems to be moving twice as fast as compared to your old sleepy town. And the traffic. And there seem to be a shortage of parking spaces too. You’re quite sure that trying to park your big fat vehicle in your new hometown would have you emitting steam from your ears on a constant basis.

A new, smaller car seems to be a nice solution. But with the plethora of models around to choose from, how are you supposed to make that decision?

Worry not. Here’s Forbes Autos’ list of the 10 best and worst cars for city driving to help you figure things out:

The 10 Best Cars for City Driving

1. BMW 325i
2. Mini Cooper
3. Scion xA/xB
4. Volvo V50
5. Saab 9-2X
6. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
7. Scion tC
8. Audi A4
9. Acura RSX
10. Acura TSX

The 10 Worst Cars for City Driving

1. Hummer H1 Alpha
2. Maybach Type 62
3. Rolls-Royce Phantom VI
4. Cadillac Escalade ESV
5. Hummer H2
6. Lincoln Town Car
7. Infiniti QX56
8. Buick Park Avenue Ultra
9. Bentley Arnage RL
10. Lincoln Navigator

And what should you look for when buying a city car? According to Forbes Autos:

* The turning radius — measured as the outer radius of a circle that the car would make with the steering wheel cranked all the way
* The footprint of a car — its overall length and width (The bigger the car, the harder it will be to manage on roads crammed with double-parked vehicles and loading/unloading trucks)
* Ease of ingress and egress (because you will probably be getting in and out of the vehicle frequently)
* Outward visibility — how well you can see cars ahead as well as those next to you
* Ride comfort at low speeds
* Handling control

And after you make that all important purchase, make sure you give your new city car the proper care and maintenance. Should the time comes when you’ll need to replace auto parts like catalytic converters, fenders, mirrors, starters, hubcaps or headlights, just visit Auto Parts Discount’s vast array of premium quality Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Toyota, Jaguar, Audi and more of your favorite automobile’s parts.

Crossovers are getting hotter and hotter

Has the age of crossovers arrived?

Crossovers - vehicles that combine the attributes and looks of an SUV with the ride and handling of a sedan or even the high-performance aspects of a sports car – are the fastest growing segment of the market today, according to MSN Autos.

At the wake of the high fuel prices, it’s no surprise really, that buyers are jumping over the fence from the traditional SUVs to the more comfortable and more fuel efficient crossover models. Over the past three months, CUVs have outsold truck-based SUVs and, according to data and projections from Ford Motor – should do so routinely and permanently beginning next year.

Competition is heating up as new entries to the segment such as Kia’s Sorento and Sportage, Hyundai’s Tucson and Santa Fe, Mitsubishi' Outlander, Cadillac SRX and the Infiniti FX45 – join the fray where CUV models like the Ford Escape, the Chevrolet Equinox, the Nissan Murano, Ford Freestyle, Toyota Highlander, Mercedes Benz R-Class, Lexus RX330, and the Honda Pilot are already making their respective marks.



Many buyers are perfectly happy to give up the traditional SUV’s off-road and towing capabilities in favor of the CUV’s other advantages – number one of them is fuel economy. Among all SUVs, the crossovers make it the easiest for consumers to switch from a car to a sport utility, because the ride and handling experience in crossovers is similar to what people often find in their cars. But crossover drivers and passengers also get to see farther down the road in front of them because the seats sit higher up in the vehicle than they do in a car. In addition, crossovers are offered with all- or four-wheel drive, which can be helpful in winter driving, and they have fold-down rear seats and a tailgate or liftgate for easy cargo loading in back.

Quality auto parts for these excellent vehicles such as catalytic converters, grilles, A/C condensers, starters, wheels, windshields, and window regulators can also be easily found at trusted online auto parts stores like Auto Parts Discount.

Tire Care

As the only parts of your car that physically touch the ground, your wheels are one of the key factors to your vehicle’s handling and braking, and overall safety. It pays to perform regular checks to your car’s tires – the time and effort you spend will be worthwhile to you and your family’s safety.



So what are the things to look out for when it comes to your vehicle’s tires?

* Cracking or cuts in the sidewalls.

* Uneven tread wear. This can be caused by improper inflation, misaligned wheels, damaged tires, or by problems with suspension parts.

* Excessively worn tread. Most modern tires have tread-wear indicator bars running across the tread, which signal the minimum allowable tread depth of 1/16-inch. When the tread wears down to these bars, it's time for new tires. Inexpensive tread-wear gauges are available at auto-parts and tire stores.

* Alternatively, you can use a Lincoln-head penny as a tread-wear indicator. Insert the penny into a tire groove with Lincoln's head toward the tire. If you can see the top of Abe's head, the tread is too worn.

* Bulges or blisters. If you see a bulge or blister on the sidewall, replace the tire at once. These signal potential weak spots that could lead to tire failure.

* Excessive vibration. Tire vibration may be a sign a wheel is misaligned, unbalanced, or bent. It could also signify internal tire damage. Don't ignore vibration: Have the vehicle serviced at once.

Regularly inspect your tires. If you note any of these early warning signs, have a professional inspection performed, check and correct items that may be causing the condition, or replace your tires. Find the best quality Toyota, Ford, Honda, Chevy and Volvo tires at trusted online auto parts stores like Auto Parts Discount.

“I swear I didn’t drink, Mom”

Here’s a simple poem about drinking and driving, which I found as I was browsing through the net. Nobody knows who wrote it but surely, the poem makes a lot of sense and the one who wrote it wanted to impart a very important message. Here, listen to a girl’s touching story...


“I swear I didn’t drink, Mom”

I went to a party, Mom,
I remember what you said.
You told me not to drink, Mom,
so I drank Coke instead.
I felt really proud inside, Mom,
The way you said I would.
I didn’t drink and drive, Mom,
Even though the others said I should.
I know I did the right thing, Mom,
I know you’re always right.
Now the party is finally ending, Mom,
As everyone drives out of sight.
As I got into my car, Mom,
I knew I’d get home in one piece,
Because of the way you raised me, Mom,
So responsible and sweet.
I started to drive away, Mom,
But as I pulled onto the road,
The other car didn’t see me, Mom,
And it hit me like a load.
As I lie here on the pavement, Mom
I hear the policeman say,
The other guy is drunk, Mom,
And now I’m the one who’ll pay.
I’m lying here dying, Mom,
I wish you’d get here soon.
How come this happened to me, Mom?
My life bursts like a balloon.
There is blood all around me, Mom,
Most of it’s mine.
I hear the paramedic say, Mom,
I’ll die in a very short time.
I just wanted to tell you Mom,
I swear I didn’t drink,
It was the others, Mom,
The others didn’t think.
He didn’t know where he was going, Mom,
He was at the same party as I,
The only difference is, Mom,
He drank and I will die.
Why do people drink, Mom?
It can ruin your whole life.
I’m feeling sharp pains now, Mom,
Pains just like a knife.
The guy who hit me is walking, Mom,
I don’t think that is fair.
I’m lying here dying, Mom,
While all he can do is stare.
Tell my brother not to cry, Mom,
Tell Daddy to be brave,
And when I get to heaven, Mom,
Write “Daddy’s Girl” on my grave.
Someone should have told him, Mom,
Not to drink and drive.
If only they would have taken the time, Mom,
I would still be alive.
My breath is getting shorter, Mom,
I’m becoming very scared.
Please don’t cry for me, Mom,
Because when I needed you,
You were always there.
I have one last question, Mom,
Before I say good-bye.
I didn’t even drink, Mom,
So why am I going to die?

---Author Unknown


Now, are you still going to drink and drive? I hope not.

For sure this coming holiday season, a lot of you would be going to parties and many social gatherings and sadly, drink and drive. Be conscientious enough so we won’t hear stories like this girl’s again and again.

Aside from not drinking and driving safely, make sure your vehicle’s well prepared for any misfortune on the road. Have enough safety parts installed in your car. Furthermore, make sure that all your parts are in perfect working condition before you go out for any adventure or fun.

Lights are simple car parts but they can help a lot in keeping you safe and sound and others as well. Get top quality auto lights from Auto Parts Discount. The store offers premium quality fog lights, headlights, sealed beams, corner lights and a wide variety of clear corners, headlamps, parking lights, side marker lights, taillights, and turn signals for various makes and models.

2007 Cadillac Escalade On Sale Next Spring

General Motors recently released photos and some info on the newly redesigned 2007 Cadillac Escalade to be sold next spring.


Talking about style, this luxurious SUV reminds us of the Sixteen concept vehicle; however, in terms of performance, the new Cadillac Escalade model has more to boast. Equipped with a more powerful all-aluminum engine, this new vehicle from GM is ready to sweep you off your feet.


Here are some of the facts released by GM about the 2007 Cadillac Escalade:



1.It is powered by a 6.2 L 403-horsepower V8 engine mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

2.It rides on GM’s GMT900 body-on-frame truck platform.

3.GM plans to export the said vehicle.

4.Initially, only all-wheel drive edition of the 2007 Cadillac Escalade will be out in the market.

5.Safety features including stability control, antilock brakes, traction control, side curtain airbags
and pretensioners for the front seat belts are provided as standard to the new Cadillac.

6.It adopts Cadillac Sixteen concept car’s signature Cadillac grille design, front Cadillac fender vent ports and layers of chrome accents.

7.Convenience features include power folding second-row seats, power fold-out running boards and power liftgate.

8.Optional features include the 22-inch Cadillac wheels, bigger than the standard 18-inch Cadillac wheels.

9.Extended wheelbase Escalade ESV and the Escalade EXT versions shall be introduced later next year.

10. The new vehicle is more aerodynamic and more fuel efficient, having the best 0.363 coefficient drag in its segment.


As you wait for the coming of this new luxury SUV, you can upgrade your older model of the Cadillac Escalade or other vehicles. Auto Parts Discount can help you with your replacement auto part needs from body and exterior parts such as doors, fenders, headlights and bumpers to performance parts such as radiators, AC condensers and reinforcement. Go check their site for more details on their top quality parts and deals.

Driving in Wet Weather

Wet weather is just around the corner again. The odds of meeting road accidents increase during wet weather. Heavy rain, for instance, can limit visibility so that a driver can't see the edges of the road, traffic signs or other cars. On vacation or running an errand, a driver who knows how to manage reduced visibility and slick pavement is more likely to stay in control.



The following tips will help motorists navigate their way through wet weather:

•Turn on windshield wipers as soon as rain begins to fall. If intermittent wipers are used, be certain they are set to a speed that will clear the windshield before visibility is compromised.

•If windows begin to fog, turn on the car's defroster.

•Use low-beam headlights to help other drivers see your car and increase visibility. Many states require headlight use in wet weather.

•Slow down and increase following distances. Speed limits are set for ideal road conditions. When it rains, visibility is reduced and braking distances increase.

•If you are forced to stop in traffic due to poor visibility, turn on emergency flashers immediately and pull as far off the road as possible.


Make sure too, that your car is properly maintained by following maintenance schedules and constantly checking for worn or damaged parts that may need replacement or repair. Should you need to replace your Honda Civic’s windshield wiper arms, your Toyota Camry’s headlights, or your Ford F-150’s wheels, visit trusted online auto parts stores like Auto Parts Discount.

Want a Prius? Get a Number

Looks like the line for the Toyota Prius is getting longer and longer.



With the gas prices not showing any signs of going down anytime soon, those who want to have Toyota’s popular gas-electric hybrid will have to take a higher number waiting for a possible three to four month period. Only last month waiting took two months. Toyota obviously has both hands full – it has said it plans to raise production of hybrids to 400,000 in 2006 from 300,000 in 2005.

While everyone I know is practically waiting in line for their Prius (including myself), my brother, a rabid SUV fan cannot stop talking about GM’s newest set of big, bad boys – the 2007 versions of the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Youkon and his “dream ride”, the Cadillac Escalade. GM is set to begin building these full-size 2007 SUVs late this year. Already, my brother is thinking of adding [b]Auto Parts Discount[/b] to stuff he saw on MTV.

I heard that the guys at GM’s PR staff are trying its best to focus on fuel-saving technologies built into its next-generation big SUVS. I still doubt though, the practicality of having really such a huge and gas-lapping vehicle at a time when gasoline prices are so high up and concerns about pollution (of which cars are huge contributors) and its effect on global warming and weather patterns continue to increase.

SUVs look really good, and when you say they are mean machines – they really are.

Honda Gets Tuned In

Inside Line reports that Honda will soon debut tuner versions of the 2006 Civic Si and the 2006 Ridgeline pickup to serve as centerpieces of the company’s high-profile appearance at November’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.

This is good news for a lot of car enthusiasts out there, especially the ones in the tuner crowd who have been grumbling about Honda taking them for granted. Car tuning has long been a favorite pastime for auto enthusiasts and amateur mechanics, the process of which they take a stock or factory-default automobile and modifies it with aftermarket auto parts like spoilers, bumpers and more powerful engines to enhance speed, power, or style. It has a long history, almost as long as the development of the car in general, originating with the development of early racing cars, and later, with the post-war hot-rod movement.

But today, customizing vehicles are no longer strictly the monopoly of the enthusiasts or the amateur mechanics. For consumers today, it’s all about personalizing their rides, making even a low-priced sedan such as a Toyota Echo for instance, as flashy as possible with custom rims, MP3 players, grilles, bumpers, and more. For manufacturers, it’s all about courting coveted young drivers. Trusted online auto parts stores like Auto Parts Discount has become a favorite among both car enthusiasts and non-conformist car owners, where they have access to hundreds of quality auto parts stores for any car make of their choice.

With popular youth-oriented artists like Snoop Dogg continuously appearing alongside blinged-up rides in public and in their videos, you can bet on it that the “tuner” customization trend will continue to rise in 2006. The hip and trendy Scion has already kick-started this trend. Many also predict that the likes of the Chevy Cobalt and Ford Focus will jump on the tuner bandwagon in a big way this year.