Used Cars in Austin

Car Problems? Check Your Battery

2010-08-21T12:00:00.000-04:00

Many vehicle's electrical problems often start with the death of a battery – the one fix a person forgets to address. People will end up spending tons of money trying to diagnose their vehicle's failure to run when in fact, maybe the last time they had their battery replaced was over five or six years prior. Yes, car batteries need replaced just as flashlight batteries and such. But unlike flashlight batteries, your vehicle will rarely show signs of the diminishing power, it will suddenly just fail you.

While car batteries are much better today than they were even a few years ago, most fail in the 5-7 year range, if not before. And cheaper batteries might not last even that long.

Is your battery running at full capacity? A new 12-volt car battery, fully charged, should be putting out about 13.5 Volts. With the car running, by the way, the voltage should be 14.0 to 14.5 Volts, which also confuses a lot of consumers. A battery won't charge unless the voltage applied to it is greater than its basic voltage (otherwise current won't flow). So to charge a battery that is nominally 13.5 volts, you need 14 to 14.5 volts to make things happen. If the car is less than 14.0 volts when running, you may have an alternator problem.

With the car off, your battery should be at 13.0 to 13.5 volts, once it is charged. Anything from 12.5 to 13.0 volts is suspect, and if you are having problems and the battery is of any age at all, you should replace it. Below 12.0 volts, your battery is likely shot. You can use a voltmeter to test your battery, many automotive places have one and will test your battery for free. If your battery is at 11.5 Volts it may not start the car. Below 10.5 Volts it is basically dead and can cause things to happen to your vehicle such as the car alarm going off, lights blinking, etc. Most consumers imagine that a 12 volt battery is half charged at 6 and fully charged at 12, but the fact is it is fully charged at 13.5 and half charged at 12.

Car batteries do not have a lot of depth of charge which means this depth becomes shallower over time. As a car battery ages, it may hold little more than a surface charge. There is enough charge to crank over the engine and start the car - once - before the alternator kicks in and recharges the battery, which in turn will now have just enough charge to re-start the car. Draining your battery becomes easy to do – whether it is a cold day and your engine has to work harder to turn over or if you leave your dome light on too long.

If your vehicle has an aftermarket stereo installed, these tend to draw more power from your battery, even when it is off. Navigation systems can also draw a lot of power. People with subwoofers often install a separate battery to power them. The standard car battery can easily be drained flat by large aftermarket subwoofer amplifiers and other audio, video, and navigation accessories.

Changing your own battery does require some knowledge in how to do it properly. If you are not familiar with what that is or how you could easily short circuit your battery or vehicle, you may want to allow a professional to do it for you. If your battery is over five or six years old, you may want to have it tested. After all, it would be cheaper to have it replaced than to pay for towing.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Six Sexy Cars of 2010

2010-08-18T18:50:00.000-04:00

When one searches online for the top ten sexiest cars in 2010, the results are numerous. The criteria varies as much as the one doing the judging. What makes a car sexy to? It may depend on what you think is sex - power, beauty, speed, price - these are all considerations.

So what are the top sexy cars based on speed, beauty and their high price?

1. Mercedes Benz E Class - This vehicle comes in a four-door sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon. Depending on your style, all of the cars can be sexy. There is definitely power in these babies. The E350 Couple is available with a 268 hp 3.5-liter V-6. If that isn’t enough, the E550 Couple has a 382 hp engine with a 5.5-liter and V-8. The E550 is also sportier in body style and has a 7-speed automatic transmission. This vehicle is not only beautiful but provides a large range of safety features such as ABS, brake assist, PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance, etc.

2. Cadillac CTS-V- The 2010 CTS-V couple debuted this year, 2010. The coupe will have the same 556 hp engine and transmission choices as the CTS-V sedan. The coupe and the sedan are both powerful vehicles that come standard with 19 inch aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes and Magnetic Ride Control. The coupe will feature unique centered twin exhausts, a larger grille for air intake and optional saffron interior trim color.

3. Lamborghini Gallardo - In 2010 Lamborghini made the 560-4 coupe. This vehicle has 560 hp at 8,000 rp and 398 ft-lbs of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine size says it all with a V10 and 5.2 liters. This vehicle can hit 62 mpg in 3.7 seconds, just in case you are in a hurry. It can also climb up to 124 miles per hour in 11.8 seconds. This vehicle is not known or its fuel efficiency but what sexy car is?

4. Porsche 911 Turbo - The 911 Carrera comes either as a coupe or cabriolet, with rear wheel drive or all wheel drive. The C2 and C4 are powered by a 345 hp direct injection 3.8-liter flat six-cylinder engine. The Turbo coupe and cabriolet models sport a 500-hp twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter flat six engine and standard all-wheel drive. Transmission choices include either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission known as PDK.

5. Audi R8 - This vehicle is built only for two but comes with a lot of power and is known for its Quattro all-wheel drive and mid-mounted engine. The 2010 series has a 525 horsepower engine with 5.2 liters (up from 4.2) and a V10. If safety is a concern, as it should be with the speeds this vehicle can obtain - the Audi R8 includes ABS, tractional control, antiskid systems, side airbags, knee airbags.

6. Corvette Grand Sport - Corvette is the American brand for sexy. The Corvette Grand Sport is available in coupe and convertible body styles, each with a six speed manual or six speed automatic transmission. The engine in the Grand Sport is rated for 430 horsepower and 424 lb ft of torque. This Corvette is different than previous Z51 models as it has a greater degree of handling performance, wider wheels and tires, revised shocks, stabilizer bar and spring modifications.

Which car do you feel is the sexiest? Maybe you will have to try one out for yourself.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Tips for Avoiding Car Break-Ins

2010-08-11T11:15:00.000-04:00

Vandalism occurs more often than we would like, and is a common day to day activity in our communities. Having your car broken into is an opportunity that vandals are seeking. If you car looks easy to break into, then it will likely be targeted by a break-in. Vandals look for easy targets, expensive merchandise, and an opportunity to steal from others for their personal gain. You will often see signs in parking lots warning of break-ins and stating that the property managers are not responsible for lost or stolen goods. Here are some tips to avoid your car or truck being broken into by a vandal.

The first tip, which is also the most practical, is to lock your car doors at all times. Some people may feel comfortable while at work or at home to leave their car unlocked. However, this is one of the first sign that a thief will look for. It is easy on some vehicles to tell if the doors are locked or not. Even while you are driving, you should lock the doors because some thieves can high jack your car to steal it. A lot of thieves will bypass a car if it is locked because they do not want to run the risk of being seen trying to unlock the vehicle or break the windows.

The next tip is to park in well lit, high trafficked or policed areas. A lot of vandals will not commit their crimes where they can be easily seen or identified. It can be very obvious if someone is breaking into a car because they will either have to break a window or spend minutes figuring out a way to unlock the doors. If there are a lot of people or police officers patrolling the area, most criminals will not risk being caught and will avoid stealing items from your vehicle.

You may not realize that you do this, but a lot of people leave bags or expensive items visible in their car either on the dashboard or on the car seats. This is another sign that vandals will look for when targeting a car to break into. Often after returning from the mall or while parking at work or school, you leave shopping bags or clothes and even sunglasses in your car. This will make your vehicle a target for stealing. You should put all items left in your car, including sunglasses and empty bags, in the trunk of your vehicle or locked in the glove compartment. You should not leave anything out.

If your vehicle has a removable face stereo system, you should remove the face plate and bring it inside with you. Stereo thieves will often break into your car to steal a stereo system knowing that you have taken off the face plate and hid it somewhere in your car. If you take the face plate of the stereo inside with you, you may avoid having the whole system stolen from you. You may have your car broken into, but they will most likely not steal the stereo without the operating face plate.

You can also purchase a car security system as an extra measure of safety to avoid a break in. Older models can be easy to break into and are often targeted by vandals. If a thief sees a security system in your car, they will most likely skip over it because they do not want to draw attention to themselves by a loud warning signal.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Leasing versus Buying a Vehicle

2010-08-09T13:19:00.001-04:00

If you are in the process of purchasing a vehicle you may be asking yourself if you should buy new or used or lease a car or truck. Most people want to find the most economic strategy especially when purchasing a vehicle because of the value of depreciation and the outlook on our current economy. Is it more cost effective to lease or own your car or truck? What are some of the advantages or disadvantages of both? This topic has even been in the news recently and was discussed on Fox News. Here is a look at the comparisons of leasing versus buying a vehicle.

If you need a loan to purchase the vehicle, you should know that the types of loans are different. A loan for leasing a vehicle is for the use of it. While on the other hand, a loan to purchase the vehicle is for the ownership of it. You have to decide if you want to pay the loan simply for using the car or truck or owning it. It is important to analyze your financial situation and what costs you can or want to afford. Leasing allows you to drive a new vehicle every two to three years, or when a new model is introduced. Buying will offer you lower monthly payments over a long term payoff. Essentially, owning is more cost effective.

The next comparison is cost. When you lease a vehicle you do not have to worry about the depreciation value, but at the end of making your payments to use the car you will have nothing to show for it. Once your use of the car is up, you stop making the payments to lease and have to return the vehicle. You will also have to pay for any damages that it incurred while you were leasing it. When you buy a vehicle, you own it. The car or truck will lose value because of depreciation and if you decide to sell or trade in, you will not receive as much for it that you purchased it for. If you make a decision to buy, you can then have the option of buying new or used.

Buying a used car or truck is the most cost effective option if you decide to purchase. When you buy a used car the down payment and monthly payments are much lower than a new car. You will also lose less in depreciative value because you have paid less for it. Overall, the total cost is much less than a new car. New vehicle cost has gone up in recent years while most people’s paychecks have not. The overall yearly cost to purchase a used car is three times less than leasing a new one.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Ads on License Plates

2010-08-04T19:37:00.000-04:00

There are vanity plates or what some call personalized license plates, and then there are specialty plates that represent a cause. What about plates that advertise? Plates that are really pre-programmed screens similar to those in elevators or information-access points that would show a pixilated display on the car's standard license plate when in motion, but when the car stops for more than three or four seconds, it begins to show advertisements.

If it sounds like science fiction, think again as the state of California is already looking into allowing such plates to help boost the state's $19 billion budget deficit.

How will traffic cops see plates numbers when needed you might ask? The plate is designed to switch to the standard plate setting when coming within a certain distance of a police cruiser due to sensors in the license plate and in the cruiser.

There are pros and cons of the plate. The pros being the money it could raise. How would it work? The proposal is that the motorist pays extra for the plate to the state's department of motor vehicle. In exchange, that motorist could receive money from advertisers to show their ads while driving around. The plates could also be used to generate Amber Alerts or traffic information, but its uncertain as to whether the motorist is paid for these systems. Whatever the ad is, it has to be preapproved. This could include private messages that the driver wants to show.

California, the state of technology and computers, feels such plates show the innovativeness of the state. The flip side of the plates is when computer hackers get into systems, as everybody knows they do, no matter how sophisticated or protected the data may be. A hacker could not only put up their own messages, mess with somebody's personal messages, but on a more serious note, change the plate number and disguise the vehicle. And what about rear-end collisions? These plates aren't made of steel which bend and flex with car crashes - the computer monitor would be destroyed, losing the drivers plate information instantly.

The citizens of California are more concerned about the safety hazards the plates could represent in having people driving around with television screens on the rear end of their cars. The question is whether drivers will pay more attention to the plates than the road and other drivers. The state of California says the plates will only play ads when the car is at a standstill - such as at a traffic light or possibly in traffic congestion. But doesn't one still need to be paying attention even when going from a standstill to motion?

California isn't the only state looking into these types of plates. Florida is also studying a prototype that is similar. England and Australia are also looking into the idea.

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety is also looking into the matter but for different reasons. They feel there is already too much advertising clutter trying to capture peoples attention that now drivers just don't notice ads. Not to mention, most drivers are too busy with their cell phones to notice one more piece of advertising.

Will the state of California approved the plates? It is hard to tell, but it is definitely on the table for further discussion.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

The Value of a Classic Car

2010-07-27T13:33:00.001-04:00

When a classic car drives by on the road, you cannot help but to stop and admire it. They are breathtaking, unique, and coveted by many. For some people, a classic can bring back memories from their youth and for others it inspires a dream to own one of these fine cars. Classics do not come cheap and you will pay a pretty penny to own one, especially if it has been restored. So what makes a car a classic and why are they so valuable?

A classic can be defined as a car that is twenty five years or older, but this is a very vague classification for a classic. There is more to it than simply the age of the car. Older cars that were really popular during the time they were manufactured can now be classified as a classic. Old cars that are hard to find because they are rare or were limited editions are often called a classic. A lot of muscle cars, rare, and limited edition models are often classics.

The value of a classic increases as the desire to have one goes up. There is an inverse relationship between desirability and rareness and the amount of value they are worth. Limited editions are often the most valuable classic because a lot of people want them but there are few available. Some common classics that are widely available because they used to be in mass production are less valuable.

Askmen.com came up with a list of the ten most expensive classic cars. To make the list, the cars had to be at least twenty years old and had to be on the market for a “quantifiable amount.” Here is the list of expensive classics and the value that was compiled by askmen.com starting with number ten.

10. 1956 Ferrari 860 Monza – Valued at $2.5 million
9. 1933 Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Monza Spider Corsa - $2.53 million
8. 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster - $3.63 million
7. 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 - $4.07 million
6. 1964 Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe - $4.4 million
5. 1932 Alfa Romeo Tipo B - $5.6 million
4. 1962 Ferrari 330 TRI/LM - $6.5 million
3. 1931 Type 41 Bugatti Royale - $8.7 million
2. 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO - $16.6 million
1. 1954 Mercedes W 196 – Valued at $24 million

As you can see, these classics are worth millions of dollars. If you have a rare or limited edition car in your garage, it could be worth millions twenty years from now.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

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History of the Muscle Car

2010-07-22T22:37:00.002-04:00

The day of the muscle car may seem far behind us, but there are those who still love the power behind the wheel, despite the lack of fuel efficiency.

So what is a muscle car? It is typically defined as a vehicle that is of high performance. In America, it is considered a 2-door, rear wheel drive vehicle equipped with a V8 engine. The muscle car is different than the 'sports car' as they are affordable in price and were typically used for drag racing.

The peak of the muscle car in America was around 1964. Thereafter, other countries came out with their own version of muscle car. In 1967, Road Test magazine profiled the muscle car's popularity commenting on how Americans enjoyed taking a small car, and putting a big engine in it for racing purposes.

What was the most popular muscle car of its day? That would depend on whom you are talking to. Some say the original muscle car was the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88. The Rocket 88, with its Rocket V-8, was said to have set the standard for every American V-8 engine that would follow for three decades. Others may claim that the Hudson Hornet was one of the top cars, as well as the Cadillac. In 1955, Chrysler built the 300. Two years later the Rambler Rebel was considered the fastest stock American car.

During the 1960s, muscle cars were all the rage. Mopar (Dodge, Plymouth and Chrysler) competed with Ford for drag racing championships. Dodge had the Dart Max Wedge which could run a 13 second ¼ mile drag strip over 100 miles per hour. By 1964, Oldsmobile, Chevrolet and Pontiac joined the race. Ford had the Thunderbolt and Mopar unveiled the Hemi engine. Other vehicles that hit the market after 1965 included the Rambler Marlin, Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda.

The evolution of the muscle car continued as the youth of the time latched on to owning such vehicles. The trend was to provide an affordable and yet powerful car for drag racing. Cars that followed the trend throughout the 60s included Chevy Chevelle, Plymouth Road Runner, Plymouth GTX, Dodge Super Bee, Plymouth Duster, and the Plymouth Valiant.

In 1970, models came out with front disc brakes and without hood scoops. These cars included the Rebel Machine by American Motors and the Plymouth Barracuda. In 1973, with the OPEC oil embargo and air pollution was at a high, companies had to focus on emission controls and vehicles with better gas mileage. This was to be the decline of the muscle car. To boot, the auto insurance industry levied surcharges on all high-powered vehicles. High performance engines started to become discontinued. Pontiac's Trans AM was considered the last of the fast ones and by 1975 even its performance was markedly reduced.

The few other lasting muscle cars were the Ford Mustang, Chevy Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. In the 1980s, American performance cars made a small resurgence. Luxury coupes with performance packages included the Buick Regal T-Type, Ford Thunderbird Turbo Couple and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.

Jumping forward, in 2003 and 2004, Mercury revived its old Marauder as a modified 302hp Mercury Grand Marquis. In 2005 Ford revived its Mustang with a retro-inspired design. In 2007 Ford and Shelby re-released a new G.T. 500 with Super Snake and King of the Road editions. During this era Chrysler introduced a four-door version of the Dodge Charger and Chevrolet introduced a new Camaro.

As for the muscle cars of old, you may not see them on the road as often as you would at a car show. Many are very valuable, with the rarest versions auctioning off for nearly half a million dollars. While the day of the original muscle cars are behind us, whose to say they may not make a comeback.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Finding That Perfect Car For Summer

2010-07-09T18:19:00.003-04:00

Summer is upon us and looking for the perfect car, no matter where you live, can be a challenge. The types of cars and their numerous options are endless. To refine your decision, first you should ask yourself what you are looking for. Make a list of everything you want to do and see this summer and decide if your current vehicle can fit the bill.

For instance, are you somebody who just wants to take a long road trip and enjoy the sun and wind in your hair? Then a convertible is right for you. But which convertible should you choose? There are many out there on the market these days. The price range is just as variable. When shopping for a convertible, do you need rear seats for guests or extra luggage? Do you want something sporty and powerful or economic? Both are important questions as they can determine the difference between purchasing a Corvette or a Mini Cooper. While the Corvette packs a lot of punch, the Mini Cooper gets 28 to 36 miles per gallon. That is a lot of miles one can put on a tank of gas. If you want punch but don't have the money for a Corvette, there is also the Ford Mustang. This muscle car doesn't get bad mileage either, averaging around 26 miles per gallon.

If you are looking to combine some four-wheel drive action with a little convertibleness, you might want to try the Jeep Wrangler. While getting the top off and on isn't as convenient as with the sedans, it does get you off road.

Speaking of off-road, there are a number of four-wheel drive SUV's on the market these days. The question is how much room do you need? Jeep has other models than their Wrangler that offer more interior room. The Patriot has rear fold down seats for campers to sleep within their vehicle. Chrysler even has a roomy SUV called the Town and Country. It too has a flexible seating configuration allowing more room inside for more stuff on the outside. For better fuel efficiency, there is the Subaru Outback. It can go off road, has seats that fold down for sleeping, optional racks for hauling gear and gets around 28 mpg. The Chevy Tahoe Hybrid has a lot of room and includes a 115 volt outlet which can run small electronics without draining the battery. This is great for the casual camper who likes their television and coffee maker while roughing it in the woods.

Towing toys this summer? Whether you have a camper trailer, boat, quads or all of the above, you will need good towing power on your summer vehicle. There are plenty of trucks and SUVs on the market that can pull anything from 8,000 to 16,000 pounds. The strongest of these would be the Dodge Ram 3500. It is said to have more than 16,000 pounds of towing capacity. Behind it is the GMC Sierra 1500 with a 9,990 pound rating. Of course you can step up the towing capacity of the Sierra by going into a more heavy-duty truck series and even Dodge, Ford and Chevy are just as compatible.

Want an SUV that can tow? How about the Nissan Armada, its towing capacity is just over 9,000 pounds. It is also very roomy. The Dodge Durango isn't as big but can tow 8,950 pounds. The Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL can also tow their weight and are big enough for those large families.

If you aren't up for camping on the ground or staying in hotel rooms, there is always the old stand-by Volkswagen camper van or as it is also called Eurovan or Vanowagon - depending on the model you choose. These vehicles often come with everything -including the kitchen sink. If you just want something you can sleep in without all the extra equipment, the Honda Element is quite roomy as well, with space for two adults to sleep comfortably on a double mattress.

Whatever your needs might be, there is most likely a summer vehicle for you out there.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Benefits of Auto Window Tinting

2010-07-09T11:02:00.000-04:00

Hot summer heat can make the inside temperature of your vehicle reach scorching temperatures. The sun can damage the interior after time by fading the car seats or damaging the quality of leather. There are ways to help cool the interior temperature and some ways work better than others. One of the best ways to help block the sun from heating up your car or truck is to have the windows tinted. There are many reasons to tint your automobile windows such as safety, energy savings, UV protection, and comfort. Here are some of the benefits of having tinted windows.

One of the best benefits that window tinting can offer is privacy. Some window films are so dark that you cannot see through to the interior of the car. You may have noticed this dark interior of limousines. You can also have the same privacy that the rich and famous do on their vehicles. There are laws that regulate how darkly tinted the windows can be. The divers’ window and the windshield cannot be so dark that police are unable to see you.

Another great benefit is the protection from the window tinting. The tint not only protects the vehicle’s interior but it also protects the passengers and driver. The film on the windows helps to block UV rays that are very damaging. These harmful rays from the sun are the leading cause of skin damage and skin cancer. You may not think that being in your car would affect your skin, but there is so much sunlight that is on you while driving. This can be dangerous if you spend a lot of time in your vehicle. The sunlight also damages the interior, and the tinting helps to protect it.

Going green does not just have to happen while you are at home. Believe it or not, you can also help in the green efforts with your vehicle. Using the air conditioning is a necessity when you are driving in the summer, especially in Texas. Operating your vehicle with the air conditioning running can burn up a lot of gas. The window tinting will help keep your car cool, so you will not have to use as much air conditioning or run it on high the entire time you are on the road. A cooler car will require less air conditioning which will, in turn, use less gas and create fewer emissions.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Boat Towing Safety with your Truck

2010-07-06T11:03:00.001-04:00

The Fourth of July is a fun summer holiday weekend. You will find a lot of friends and family on the lakes near central Texas this weekend and throughout the summer. Lake Travis is a popular weekend destination and is crowded with boats and jet skis over the holiday weekend. The roads also become very busy with drivers taking off for a fun weekend out of town. The roads can often be seen with trucks or SUVs towing a boat, four wheelers, and jet skis behind them. Here are some safety tips to remember this weekend if you are towing your boat to the lake with your truck.

First and foremost, you have to adjust the way you drive your vehicle when you are towing something such as a boat or an RV. Extra caution will be needed on the road and drivers around you should also be more cautious on busy holiday weekends with a lot of towing trucks on the road. The weight of your moving truck will be much different with a boat in tow. You will have to use extreme caution when pulling out, braking, accelerating, and changing lanes. You will need more room to come to a complete stop and you should drive slower than normal.

Before you start driving, you should check to see that your boat trailer is a safe and properly attached to your truck or SUV. It is important as a boat owner and driver that you know how to operate a towing trailer and the rules and regulations for doing so in your state. Make sure that the vehicle you are towing with can handle the weight of the trailer and boat in tow. Here is a checklist you can follow when attaching the trailer and loading up your boat:

Is the hitch and hitch ball (coupler) properly fitted and the right size?

Are the coupler and all safety chains attached to the hitch securely?

Are all attachments tightened?

Is the boat tied down to the trailer?

Are the wheel lug nuts and bearings tightened and adjusted?

Are you in proper weight capacity for the trailer and towing vehicle?

Are the trailer tires inflated?

Do all trailer lights work properly?

Do the brakes work? (You may need to purchase a trailer with its own brakes)

Once you have checked off on the requirements and safety measures, you are ready to get on the road with your truck and boat in tow. Use extreme precautions and never drive too fast, aggressive, or recklessly. Have a fun and happy summer!

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

How to Cool Your Car in the Summer

2010-06-22T20:27:00.000-04:00

There is nothing worse in the summer than the hot Texas sun beating down on your car. The temperatures can rise to over one hundred degrees in your vehicle. The hot temperatures can wear down the engine faster, fade the paint on your car, and make it unbearable to sit in until the air conditioning cools it down. Having cold A/C is a necessity if you live in Texas because of the hot, humid summers. Here are some tips for keeping your car cool in the summer.

These tips are especially helpful if you do not have air conditioning in your car, truck, or SUV. The first tip which anyone can follow is to park under the shade, even if you do have air conditioning. Parking under the shade rather than the direct sunlight can make a big difference. Being under a big shade tree can cool the temperatures ten to fifteen degrees or more. Even a small amount of shade is better than no shade at all. Finding shade can be difficult sometimes and most trees are on the outer edges of a parking lot. You may have to walk further to an entrance, but when you return to your car the cooler temperature will make the walk worth it.

Another free tip which any vehicle owner can use it to crack the windows open a bit. Doing this can help to ventilate your car instead of having steam or hot air build up in your car. The windows on your vehicle have the same effects of a green house. Opening them up will allow more air to be let out of the car. You should only crack the windows open a small amount because you do not want your vehicle vandalized. If you are afraid of your car being broken into, there are other tips to help keep your car cooler in the summer.

Having some type of cover on your windows to block the sun is another great tip. An inexpensive way to cover your windows is to buy a sun shade. You can find sun shades in different colors and materials, and all are great for blocking the sun. If you want something more permanent that can block the sun while your driving is to have your vehicle windows tinted. This is more costly then purchasing a sun shade but it is a wise investment. You can have your windows professionally tinted or buy at home tinting kits.

When you are not driving your car and if you are at home, you should park your car in a garage. Garage parking is always better than parking on the street or your driveway because it protects your car from sun and other weather elements. Parking in a garage will keep your car cool until you are ready to leave your house.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Benefits of Buying A Pre-Owned Vehicle

2010-06-19T16:49:00.002-04:00

There are several benefits to purchasing a Pre-Owned vehicle, as opposed to buying a brand new vehicle. In the current economy, used vehicles are selling more than ever, while providing stable comfort to get individuals and families from Point A to Point B.

Price - It is most often called 'sticker-shock' when a person views the price of a brand new vehicle on the sales lot. Buying a new car is most definitely more expensive than purchasing the same vehicle in used condition. The price will not only be lower, as with respects to the actual cost of the vehicle, but the insurance cost for a used vehicle is most always less expensive for a used vehicle. Depending on state, registration for the purchase of a used car is also less expensive than that of a new vehicle.

Depreciation - When a new car leaves a sales lot, it is said to lose fifteen percent of its sales value, immediately. By year two of owning your new vehicle, the depreciation is said to double to thirty percent. The first owner of a new car will take the largest drop in vehicle depreciation. However, in reference to a used vehicle, this is the exact opposite. The first owner of a used vehicle will face the least amount of vehicle depreciation.

Pre-Owned Certification Programs - There are several benefits to purchasing a used vehicle that is certified. This certification process started with luxury brands such as Mercedes. Now, most all manufacturers adhere to these programs. Some of the benefits of a certified used vehicle include:

• Certified vehicles will go through a very thorough process of inspection. This inspection process goes beyond making sure everything works under warranty. This inspection will extend into that of what may or may not work in the near future.

• Certified vehicles will only receive their certification with considerations of low mileage, and with little to no damage history.

• When financing a used vehicle, it is often the case that lower interest rates will apply for certified pre-owned vehicles. When taking out a loan, every penny counts, and this discount can be substantial.

• Warranties apply to most certified used vehicles, that will extend beyond that of the vehicle's basic warranty. It may include benefits such as: roadside assistance, engine repair, etc. This can also be inclusive with the warranty that may still remain on the vehicle.

Cost to Repair - As a vehicle's year of creation passes, the parts become more available to the average body shop. Should it be the case that your used vehicle needs repair, the parts will become less expensive and more available with time. When new vehicles are produced, extra parts are not a priority for a manufacturer. It is often difficult to harbor repairs that are not included in a new vehicle warranty, and if a warranty applies, it may take awhile before the parts can be delivered from the manufacturer.

This also ties into the lowered price of insurance. Should your vehicle be damaged, insurance companies are aware of the above facts. As the price to repair your used vehicle will cost less, your insurance price will reflect this.

In a tough economy, used cars are becoming more and more popular. Their reliability to families and cost to the individual will continue to be beneficial.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Choosing a Family-Friendly Vehicle

2010-06-13T17:17:00.005-04:00

There are many decisions to make in choosing a vehicle that is suitable for a family. Some relate the choice to gas mileage and functionality, while others may determine that comfort is at the top of the list. It is most important to understand that a vehicle should be chosen not only for what your family needs now, but how flexible the vehicle can be as your family grows.

Safety should be a foremost consideration for your family automobile. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration consistently lists the safest vehicles, along with vehicles that have particular safety features. The Administration also has information on crash impact and rollover statistics for all automobiles. Doing your research on the autos you wish to look into, can always assist you with your choice.

Budget may also be a deciding factor when purchasing a family-friendly vehicle. One must also remember that the sticker price of a vehicle does not include additional factors such as: taxes, plates, and fees. It may also help to call your insurance agent, and get an estimate on the insurance rates for the vehicle, before purchasing it.

Your budget will also include gas mileage. If your family is consistently buzzing around town for swim meets and Girl Scout meetings, perhaps a vehicle with better city mileage is what you will need. If you are commuting with your family or taking regular weekend trips, it may be more important to be informed of the highway mileage.

When considering a family vehicle, do not be afraid to bring the entire family to test-drive the auto. Pack everybody in, and see if it is a comfortable fit for all. What works for one family, may be a completely different fit for another. Some things to think about when your family test-drives a vehicle:

• Is there enough room for the entire family (including diaper bags, coolers or whatever else you may transport on a daily basis)?

• Is there enough storage (for groceries, strollers, sports equipment)?

• Do the child seats fit comfortably and safely into the vehicle?

• Is there additional seating for friends, family and pets?

In looking for a family-friendly vehicle, most forget to consider the 'extras':

• A sunroof can be great, but be sure it comes with a shade, to dim brighter sunshine

• Tinted windows can keep sun out of children's eyes

• Additional cup holders are always a bonus for juice boxes or cups full of snack- foods

• Sliding doors can offer more access to the rear seats, as well as making it easier for passengers to get in and out

• Dual (Front/Rear) cooling can clear the heat out of a vehicle much faster than front cooling alone

Minivans and SUV's have been a favorite for many years, in supplying comfort and efficiency for families big and small. Most used minivans and SUV's can be quite affordable, too. Each family will have their own set of needs and necessities. In purchasing your next family-friendly vehicle, this food for thought will have you on your way to choosing the perfect investment.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Saving Gas And Summer Driving

2010-06-09T19:06:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year when we all want to take road trips, get out of town for picnics and outings or just go exploring. With this comes filling up the gas tank and realizing the high cost of fuel. But no need to despair, there are a few simple ways you can get the most bang for your buck this summer when it comes to your gas tank. They include:

1. Change Your Oil - Clean oil reduces wear caused by friction of moving parts and keeps your engine running at peak performance. A peak-performing engine requires less fuel and can save you up to ten percent. In addition to changing your oil, make sure you are using the correct oil for your vehicle. Your owner's manual will assist you with the proper oil usage. Last, make sure you have a clean oil filter - something that is typically replaced with an oil change.
2. Check Your Tire Pressure - This is one of those things most people don't look at - as long as they don't have a flat they keep on driving. The fact is, proper tire inflation can improve your gas mileage up to 3 percent. Under inflated tires can reduce gas mileage by 0.3 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure in all four tires. Consult your owner's manual to find out what your tire pressure should be.
3. Watch Your Driving - Little things like avoiding unnecessary idling or revving of your engine can save gas. Going the speed limit can also give you more miles for your gas buck. Practicing these simple tasks can lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and 5 percent around town.
4. Keep Your Vehicle Light - If you are driving around a truck with extra weight in the back, then you are wasting your gas. Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle. By just adding an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle will reduce your MPG by 2 percent.
5. Maintain Your Air Filter - Replacing clogged air filters, especially on older cars, can improve fuel economy up to 14 percent. A clogged air filter on any type of vehicle also reduces acceleration time from 6 to 11 percent.
6. Use Overdrive Gears - When you use overdrive gearing, your car's engine speed goes down and reduces engine wear.
7. Reduce Wind Resistance - This is pure physics. The design of your vehicle can contribute to the amount of wind resistance you will face. But other factors include items on your car that can be modified. For example, the use of a roof rack, when not needed, can cause wind resistance and reduce gas mileage. Putting a cover on the bed of your truck can also help with reducing wind resistance.
8. Use Electrical Systems in Moderation- The electrical pull on your engine is equal to the pull on your gas tank. If possible, reduce the use of your air conditioning. This can be difficult depending on where you live. But if you are in a milder climate, rolling down the windows would be a better option than running the air continually.

Last of course is reducing the amount of time you are driving your vehicle. When possible, consider car-pooling or occasionally using public transit. Many people these days are riding the bus, are bicycling or walking when the weather is nice.
There are a handful of options available to you at any given time which can assist you in reducing the cost of gas, giving you more money to enjoy that vacation on.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Off Road Techniques and Places to Go

2010-06-07T13:46:00.003-04:00

If you have a truck or SUV, you may like to take your vehicle off the open road and onto the muddy trails throughout Texas. Off roading is a lot of fun, but needs to be taken seriously because of the dangers of the unpaved roads and trails. There is a lot of open country in Texas, and there are parks where you can take your trucks and other off road vehicles to explore the terrain and have fun in. Here are some parks in Texas to go off roading and some tips and tricks to remember.

Off roading, sometimes referred to as mudding, requires a lot of open space, unpaved terrain, and mud. You can take your vehicle off road anywhere that you see a lot of open unpaved roads or trails. Keep in mind not to trespass on someone’s property or take your vehicle off road where the conditions are unsafe. If you are taking your truck on an off road adventure and you are not at a park, explore and survey the area first to avoid unsafe roads or trails. For example if you are near water, you do not want to end up in a deep area where your vehicle can get stuck or flooded.

There are parks that are designed for off roading in Texas. Some popular off roading parks are: General Sam’s Off Road Park in Huntsville, Mud Creek Off Road Park in Jacksonville, and Gator Park in Easton to name a few. In Alto, there is a park that holds an annual party called the Redneck Offroad party on their 250 acre park. A great way to find some great off road places is to join clubs or groups and be involved on off road forums online.

When you do take your vehicle on an off road adventure, it is not recommended to buy a new truck for this. Used trucks and ATVs are great for this type of thing. Austin used cars dealers have great selections of used trucks as well as cars. A lot of damage can be done to your vehicle when you are off road, so buying a new truck can be very expensive, especially if there is damage that cannot be fixed.

When you are ready to take you r vehicle off road, you will probably find these tips helpful. First, choose a course based on your skill and knowledge of off roading techniques. If you are a beginner, you should not be on an advanced trail. The next tip is to let some of the air out of your tires. Doing so will allow for better traction. Also, if you are going over a large object, such as a rock, go over it head on with your tire and do not have the object in the middle of your vehicle. If you do not want to damage your vehicle too much or do not want a lot of scratches on it, give your vehicle a good and thorough wax job.

When you are going off road, be sure to find a park that has trails that are not too advanced or too easy for your skills. Once you have a place, remember the off roading tips and you will be sure to have a fun adventure.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

The Life and Times of the Hummer

2010-06-04T13:19:00.000-04:00

2010 marks the last year the Hummer will be made by makers General Motors. While the product was to be sold by GM to Chinese auto maker Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Company in 2009, the deal fell through by February 2010. At this point, GM decided to retire the brand.

What is the history of the Hummer? Hummers were originally built by AM General Corporation, a company formerly owned by AMC-Jeep's General Products Division. The vehicles were created under a contract for the United States Armed Forces. The first model, the Hum-Vee, was built with a variety of military-based equipment. After the U.S. Military received their quota, they adapted some of the models into vehicles. At this point, AM General decided to sell a civilian version of the Hum-Vee.

Hum-Vee received its largest amount of publicity during Desert Storm. By 1992, the civilian version called the M998 High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV or Hum-Vee) was released under the name Hummer.

By 1998, AM General sold the brand name to General Motors, who continued to manufacture the vehicles. GM quickly introduced two new models, the H2 and H3. AM General continued to build the H1 until it was discontinued in 2006. The H2 and H3 would be smaller versions, especially the H3, which was built in Shreveport, LA alongside the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickups. The H3 shares the GMT-355 platform with these vehicles.

The H1 was Hummer's first car in the Hummer Range. It was built for its high mobility and multipurpose usage. The vehicle was originally designed for strict military usage and its massive four-wheel drive capacity. It boasted 16 inches of ground clearance as well as its super-aggressive approach and departure angles. The Humvee could climb over a 22-inch high obstacle and handle a 60 percent grade as well as wade through up to 30 inches of water. The H1 came with a convertible-like soft top, a four-door hard top pickup truck and a wagon body version. Lesser-known variants included a two-door pickup truck and a four-door slantback. The vehicle came with five engine types and three automatic transmission types.

The H2 was built as a large truck but slimmer than the H1. It was slightly longer and taller with room for six passengers. The rearmost part of the H2 was modified to a pickup truck bed for the 2005 H2 SUT. The H2 shares a platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. The H2's frame is made up of three sections - the front uses a modified GM 2500-Series utility frame, the mid-section is new and completely boxed and the rear section uses a modified GM 1500-Series frame which is upgraded for the 8,600 lb gross weight vehicle. The H2 comes with a 6.0 L V8 and a 6.2 L V8.

The H3 is the smallest of Hummer models and is available either as a traditional midsized SUV or a midsized pickup known as the H3T. The H3 was launched with a 3.5 liter straight-5 cylinder L52 engine that produced 220 hp and 225 ft.-lbf of torque. In 2007 the engine was replaced by a 3.7 liter LLR that produced 242 hp and 242 ft-lbf of torque. In 2009 this was revised to 239 hp and 241 ft-lbf.

Hummers were not only popular in America. By 2006, the Hummer began to expand through importers and distributors in 33 countries. The H3, built in South Africa for international markets were first built with left-hand drive but then right-hand drive versions were added for exports to Australia and other markets. Meanwhile the H2 was being assembled in Kaliningrad, Russia by Avtotor.

Despite it's worldwide popularity, the brand would not hold up. During a shareholders meeting in June, 2008, GM's CEO announced that the product either had to be sold or completely redesigned or discontinued. There was a decreasing demand for large SUV's due to the higher prices of fuel. Several parties originally approached GM for the purchase of the Hummer brand but nothing went through. The problems Hummer suffered included size and fuel economy.

The H1 and H2 caused parking problems due to their size as well as problems fitting into standard sized garages. Their size also posed a threat to smaller vehicles. Ecologically, they also received a lot of criticism. The H2 was singled out and attacked as a symbol of ecological irresponsibility. Last, the Hummer had poor fuel economy. Compared to other heavy passenger vehicles, Hummers without the alternate Duramax V8 engine had terrible fuel economy. The H2 averages about 14 mpg on highways and 10 mpg in the city and has a curb weight of over 6,000 lbs.

In June 2009, GM announced it would file for bankruptcy and during this time, it revealed that the Hummer brand would be discontinued. On April 7, 2010, GM officially said was shutting down the Hummer SUV brand and offering rich rebates in a bid to move the remaining 2,200 vehicles.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Financing Your Next Auto Purchase

2010-05-19T11:37:00.000-04:00

Unless you have the cash to make your next auto purchase, it is most likely that you will have to finance it. When financing, there are several options available to you depending on your credit score, the amount you need to finance and even the type and amount of miles on the vehicle.

Looking at your financing before auto shopping may help you determine how much you can afford. Many dealerships deal directly with lending institutions and can help you pre-arrange financial approval. With preapproval you will have knowledge as to what your monthly payments will be, your interest rate, and repayment terms. The advantage of a direct loan is that you have already been approved for automobile financing and know the maximum amount of your loan plus repayment terms. The disadvantage is that you may not be able to take advantage of special automobile financing offers by the dealer.

So how do you qualify for the most credit before applying? A lending institute will look at many things to qualify you for a purchase. The first thing looked at will be your credit report. Within your credit report is all information regarding your past and current loans along with your other debts. Credit reports include your payment history - whether you paid for things on time or late. Your credit report will show how many loans you have taken out, how many you repaid in full, how much credit you have with other creditors as well as how much credit you have already used. All of these factors will provide the lender with a credit score. Your credit score will then determine not only how much you can borrow but at what interest rate. The lower your score, the less amount of money you can borrow and the higher the interest rate. The higher your credit score, the more you can borrow and at a better rate.

If you discover that your credit score is poor and you are unable to borrow at a decent rate, you can add a co-signer to your loan. A co-signer will be equally liable for the entire loan amount. Essentially, if you fail to repay the automobile loan as agreed, responsibility for repayment will then be that of the co-signer. Because of this, co-signers are typically family members or somebody who trusts you.

What are the other factors lenders look at beyond your credit score? Your income level is of great importance to lenders. Lenders want to evaluate your capacity to repay your loan and make your monthly payments. Your income is then compared to your expenses. The lender will ask you if you own or rent your home, what your payments are, what your bills add up to, and how much you have saved. You can do this ahead of time to better determine what you can afford each month. Add up all of your fixed monthly expenses such as rent, mortgage, utilities, credit card fees, etc. Subtract from that your net income. Then subtract out other expenses such as food, gas, entertainment and such. The result is the amount of money you have to play with. A good rule of thumb is that you can spend 20 percent of your net income for a car payment.

The next thing to remember when borrowing money is that you are not just borrowing the amount of money for the cost of the car. There are other fees as well that include licensing, registration and taxes. Second, the true cost of owning a vehicle is more than your monthly payment. Remember that you still have to pay for the vehicle's insurance, gas and maintenance.

Once you have determined what you can afford, you can now go out and buy that car you have been dreaming of.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

SUTs versus Full Sized Trucks

2010-05-18T17:04:00.001-04:00

If you spend a lot of time on the road, you may have noticed that there are a lot of trucks in Austin, TX and surrounding areas. Having a large vehicle can be necessary if you live in a rural area such as the surrounding hill country of Austin. A new style of trucks that a lot of people are driving is called a sport utility truck or SUT. An SUT has the luxury of an SUV, but some of the functionality of a full sized truck. Depending on what your needs are for a large vehicle or a truck will determine which one will offer more benefits and advantages for your driving needs.

There are different sport utility trucks that you can choose from. A lot of car makers ranging from Hummer, Chevrolet, and Cadillac make an SUT model. If you prefer luxury over functionality then an SUT may be exactly what you are looking for. A sport utility truck has the look and feel of a full sized truck but offers the comfort and luxury of an SUV or large car. In summary, it is an SUV with an open cargo container. An SUT is still capable of off roading and hauling, but does not have the same large pickup bed size as a truck. A great off road vehicle that can withstand any terrain is the model made by Hummer.

If you need or require the day to day functionality for a working truck then a full sized truck may be more appropriate. A full sized truck is still very comfortable but is not as glamorous or luxurious as an SUT. The pickup bed is larger and better for hauling and heavy duty work. For example, if you work in construction this would be a better choice because you would require the functionality and practicality over luxury. Full sized trucks have great towing capabilities too. In some cases, there is more cab room inside of a large truck than there is in a sport utility truck.

Both types of trucks have a lot of functions and capabilities. They are great for on road and off road driving. If you do not need the space of a full sized truck, then you may appreciate the glamour, comfort, and luxury of an SUT. Other drivers may prefer the original make and functionality of a truck. You can always contact an Austin used cars dealer to test drive their selection of trucks. It is better to make a choice based on your needs or wants for a vehicle. Texas does have a lot of trucks on the road but there is always room for a sport utility truck too.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Leather or Cloth Car Seats?

2010-05-11T11:42:00.002-04:00

You may be in the market for purchasing a vehicle. There are so many things to consider and a lot of research should be done before making your final purchase. Some factors you may consider are: do you want a car or a truck or an SUV, new or used, black or blue, leather or cloth, and many more factors. Some people prefer to be an impulse shopper, but when it comes to automobiles you should take the time to research your purchase. Used car dealers are great resources and do not be afraid to ask questions from your dealer.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, you should then decide on the interior you want for your vehicle. One interior may be better in certain climates, and one may be beneficial for your needs. Fortunately, this choice does not have to be too time consuming because your choices are leather or cloth. Here are some of the advantages of each to help you in making your decision. You can weigh out the advantages of each and see which interior will best suit your needs.

Cloth interior is less expensive than leather, and for a shopper on a budget this would be the way to go. Another advantage of choosing this interior is that it can be more comfortable, especially for kids. Young kids often fall asleep in car rides, and the cloth interior is comfortable to sleep on. The interior absorbs sweat and will not make you perspire. If you live in a really hot climate this will be advantageous for you especially if you do not like to sweat. Another great advantage of cloth interior is that the temperature of your car seats will not be extremely hot or cold. The cloth holds the same temperature.

On the other hand, a lot of people prefer a leather interior. If you are buying a Austin used cars, this interior can increase the value of your vehicle. Leather has more of a luxurious appearance and is very comfortable to sit on. Another great advantage is that it is very easy to clean. Liquid cannot be absorbed into the material and you will not have to worry about your car or truck smelling bad. You can even purchase leather interior treatment products from your car dealer. Because leather does not absorb odors, the smell of your car will always be good.

There are advantages with both types of interiors. The type you choose should be about your personal preferences. After looking at the benefits of both interiors, you should be able to make a choice that is best for you and your driving needs.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Personalizing Your Car

2010-05-07T18:45:00.000-04:00

You have just purchased your next vehicle. Now you want to make it your own. What are the ways you can do this? There are many, depending on your taste, style and need. Here are just a few:

1. Tires - Changing out your rims or increasing the size of your tires can change the look of your vehicle significantly. If you are looking to 'upstep' your vehicle, you can do this by increasing your wheel's diameter. Then there are the rims. Rims come in everything from aluminum to alloy. They also vary greatly in price, depending on what you are looking for and how much you can spend, but the change will most certainly be recognizable.
2. Pinstriping and Graphics - People have been adding pinstripes and graphics to their vehicles for years. It is one of the most unique ways you can add flare to your vehicle and it sets off your vehicle. Pinstriping and graphics are also cheaper than painting your car.
3. Grilles and Body Kits - Vehicles come with what is called a factory grille, but to express yourself a little more, you can have your grille customized. Body kits also can give your vehicle a new look as well as change its aerodynamics. Kits can include front bumpers, rear bumpers, side skirts and spoilers. You can lower your car, change its weight distribution or change its look.
4. Windows - Tinting your windows can give your vehicle a new look and help provide a little relief from the sun. Tints come in different colors and shades - but check your local laws to make sure you are within its limits, as some areas do not allow particular tints.
5. Audio - The most favorite change of all, changing out your stereo system. Today's audio systems are more sophisticated than ever, playing music from your iPod or MP3 player as well as your CDs. Not only can you change out your system, but also the speakers and amplifiers as well. The possibilities are almost endless when it comes to upgrading the sound system in your vehicle.
6. Video - Looking for a way to entertain the kids in the back seat? Flat-panel video screens, DVD players, you name it - they have it. You can customize your vehicle with as many DVD players as you can fit these days. They can be installed in the headrest, dash or in a flip down from the ceiling.
7. Lighting - Changing out the lights under your car, around your car and in your car is another option in customizing your vehicle. Many people are installing LED's or Light Emitting Diodes under their car. You can also change the bulbs in the existing lights within your car.
8. Gauges - There are many aftermarket gauge kits that one can purchase to change the appearance of their dashboard. Some of these kits include ways to change the look of your gauges at night.
9. Seat Covers and Floor Mats - This is the oldest and cheapest way to customize your vehicle. There are numerous choices today in seat covers and floor mats out there. There are even dashboard trim kits, custom shifter knobs and specialized drink holders that you can add to your vehicle. Floor mats and cargo liners will also help you protect your vehicle and keep it looking new.

The ways of individualizing your vehicle to your own tastes are numerous and across the board when it comes to cost. So have fun and enjoy making your vehicle your own.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Does Car Color Matter?

2010-04-30T12:05:00.001-04:00

What kind of car you drive can say a lot about the person driving it and their personality. Does the color of the car also affect how people or police officers may or may not perceive you? There are myths that red colored cars tend to get pulled over more often for speeding. Is this myth actually a reality? Does the color of your car really matter? Are certain colors better for warm or cold climates? Here are some examples of car color and what people say about it.

According to some studies, the red car myth is false. A lot of people believe that red colored cars are usually pulled over for speeding because the bright color attracts the notice of police officers and is an attention grabber. Studies have shown that speeding red cars get pulled over just as often as other colored speeding cars or trucks. However, most sports cars have a higher chance of being caught for speeding than a truck or SUV.

A study published in the *British Medical Journal from December of 2003 reports that car color can matter when it comes to car accidents. Certain color cars are more prone to being in accidents. Brown, green, and black cars have higher chances of being involved in an automobile accident. If you want to be safe and not sorry you should drive either silver or a white car. Silver cars were reported as the safest color. They believe this to be true because colors that are lighter in color are more visible on the road.

If you live in an area that is hot with high temperatures, it is better to drive a lighter color car or truck. Darker colors heat up faster than lighter colors. This is also true with the interior of the car. The sun can also fade the color of your vehicle. You may notice that people who live where it is hot most of the time drive white cars with a light interior. This is not true for all people though. Even if you drive a blue car in a hot climate it will still heat up.

The color of your vehicle can also say something about your personality. This is not true in all cases however. Some people choose a certain color for practical reasons or maybe they will choose blue if it is their favorite color. Here are some rare colors for cars and what it could mean about your personality. If you drive an orange vehicle it can mean that you like to be the center of attention and that you seek attention. Pink is also not common and could mean that you like to comfort people and also need comfort in your life.

*Original Article http://bit.ly/buRA9l

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

What Is A Flex-Fuel Vehicle

2010-04-29T18:35:00.000-04:00

You may have seen the sticker Flex Fuel on the back of new vehicles. But what does it mean? According to professionals, a Flexible Fuel Vehicle or FFV is an alternative fuel vehicle with an internal combustion engine designed to run on more than one fuel, usually gasoline blended with either ethanol or methanol fuel. Both fuels are stored in the same common tank. Flex fuel vehicles are different than bi-fuel vehicles in that with bi-fuel, there are two tanks, each that stores the separate type of fuel. Bi-fuel vehicles can run on compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas or hydrogen.

Many ask whether their vehicle will burn ethanol or E85 fuel even though it isn't designated as a flex fuel vehicle. The answer is yes and no. All gasoline vehicles are able to operate on gasoline and ethanol blends of up to 10 percent. Most pumped gas sold in the United States has approximately that amount of ethanol to meet clean air or emissions regulations. These low percentage blends are not classified as alternative fuels. But to use E85 you must have the right engine. If your vehicle isn't a designated Flex Fuel vehicle, check with your manufacturer as many vehicles were made as early as 2002 that can burn E85 safely.

If your vehicle is not made for ethanol or is non-E85 ready, it could cause iron components in your vehicle to corrode. Ethanol can also negatively affect electric fuel pumps by increasing internal wear, cause improper spark generation and cause erroneous fuel quantity indications.

Is Ethanol more fuel-efficient? Not really. Studies have shown that using 100% ethanol fuel decreases fuel-economy by 15 to 30 percent over the use of 100% gasoline. On the flip side, the benefits of ethanol are that it reduces America's dependence upon foreign oil and reduces greenhouse emissions.

The cost of ethanol can vary, according to where you live. It can also be difficult to find, again, depending on what state you live in. If you are from the Midwest, where corn is grown in plenty, ethanol stations are everywhere and the price is lower than that of regular fuel. If you live outside of the Midwest, it can be more difficult to find and the price can be considerably higher. There are nearly two thousand filling stations in the US that sells E85 and there are websites that can help you find a station near you.

Another benefit of buying a vehicle that burns flex-fuel is the tax incentives offered by the Federal Government.

If E85 is of no interest to you, there is also B100 or biodiesel. Biodiesel is manufactured from numerous products including vegetable oil, animal fat, recycled restaurant grease and more. Biodiesel produces less air pollutants and is biodegradable. B100 is blended with petroleum diesel. Common blends include B2, B5, and B20 - the number next to the B indicates the percentage of biodiesel. B2 and B2 can be used in most vehicles that have diesel engines. Manufacturers do not recommend using blends greater than B5 as it can cause engine damage. Again, biodiesel has a lower fuel economy and is currently more expensive - meaning it is having the same problems as Ethanol.

Vehicles that run on natural gas are growing commercially in numbers. Natural gas is also better for the environment, producing 60 to 90% less smog pollutants and 30 to 40% less greenhouse gas emissions. It is also less expensive than gasoline. The downside is that it is hard to find and very few vehicles are made that use it.

The same goes with propane or LPG. Vehicles that run of off LPG have not been commercially produced in the US since 2004. Some vehicles can be retrofitted to run on LPG. This gas is stored in high-pressure fuel tanks and again is difficult to find in filling stations, in contrast to gasoline and diesel.

There are pros and cons to almost every fuel. Do you research before buying your next vehicle and decide what it is you find most important.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Cars and Personalities

2010-04-20T12:51:00.001-04:00

Deciding what car, truck, or SUV to purchase for you can be a challenging task. There are many factors you have to consider when making your decision. Those factors include choosing a brand, style, color and features for example. Do you like small fast cars or do you prefer a rugged, hefty truck? What kind of vehicle you choose can say a lot about your personality. Now, of course there are not any scientific findings with the association. Here is a fun way to look at cars and personalities. What does your vehicle say about you?

There are conditions that control how you choose a vehicle to drive. You may need to consider your budget, how many people will be in your vehicle like kids, parents, or friends, and location. Small cars are not as functional in the hill country as trucks or SUV’s are for instance. On the other hand, smaller cars are perfect for city living and narrow roads. Some of these conditions may also affect what your car says about your personality too. For example, maybe you like fast paces and large crowds so you probably own a smaller car because you live in the city.

Driving a luxury car such as Lexus, Mercedes, or BMW can mean that you enjoy the finer things in life, work hard for what you have, and prefer a high end style. You are flashy and like to be the center of attention sometimes. You want the best of the best and do not settle for anything less.

A small fast car such as Honda, Acura, or Nissan means you like fast paces and love speed! You find roads that are curvy and have a strong sense of adventure. You are probably competitive in nature and find yourself racing other cars on the road, even if that means being the first to accelerate at a green light.

Or perhaps you prefer to drive a big rig like an SUV or a truck. You like big vehicles that are dependable and can be used in any work situation. You most likely enjoy the outdoors, working hard, or the country way of life. You most likely live outside of the city or grew up in the hill country or mountains.

If you are driving a used vehicle you are most likely sensible, smart, frugal, and dependable. You recognize the value of a dollar and appreciate the earnings from your hard work. You may be a bargain shopper and are always on the lookout for the best deals in life.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Half Ton Truck - What Does That Mean?

2010-04-20T11:06:00.000-04:00

When shopping for trucks, you probably have encountered the terms half-ton, three-quarter ton and one ton. What do each of these terms mean? And if you buy a half-ton truck does it mean your truck weights 1,000 pounds?

A half-ton truck actually does not refer to the weight of the truck. Half-ton pickups actually weigh more than a ton. The weight of a truck is actually described in terms of its 'curb weight'. According to Edmunds, a 2007 half-ton pickup would normally have a curb weight of around 9000 and 11000 pounds. The term half-ton then refers to the truck's payload capacity. Payload therefore means the truck's carrying capacity of both cargo and passengers. And yet, statistically, most modern half-ton pickups can actually carry more than 1000 pounds. Early model trucks could carry only max loads of 1000 pounds, but this was back in the 1960s. Yet, the term half-ton has stuck, even though it doesn't mean exactly that. But in terms of classifying trucks, it helps to differentiate the half-ton from the larger three-quarter-ton and one-ton vehicles.

So, if you are looking to see how much your truck can haul, you will want to check out the truck's specs within the manual or online. Remember that also when looking for hauling capacity, you are only looking at the weight carried, not towed. Towing capacity is completely different than hauling capacity.

In towing capacity there are again more terms to be familiar with. One is Gross Combined Weight Rating or GCWR and the other is Gross Vehicle Weight Rating(GVWR). GCWR is the maximum weight of a truck, including the truck itself, cargo, passengers, fuel, trailer and trailer cargo. The GVWR is just the maximum weight of vehicle including passengers, cargo and tongue weight.

Many people will measure these weights by taking their loaded truck and trailer to a scale to find its weight. To determine the safe towing capacity of a loaded truck, one would take the GCWR and subtract the curb weight and the weight of everything in the truck, including passengers and cargo. They would then, take the GVWR and subtract the curb weight of the truck. Many manufacturers do not advertise these details and only promote the towing capacity of a truck based on only one driver whose weight is approximately 150 lbs. Realistically, your vehicle would have other passengers and cargo as well - all of this adds up.

Other considerations when looking at purchasing a truck for towing capacity is looking at variables such as the engine, transmission, quality of brakes and rear axle.

Although terminology of trucks isn't completely accurate, it is still pretty much known that a half-ton truck is known for light duty and towing capacity while the three-quarter-tons and one-tons have bigger frames, firmer suspension and more powerful engines for pulling larger loads.

In the automotive industry, it can be difficult for consumers to accurately compare truck towing performance as there is little to no criteria. This is expected to change as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has created a committee that is working on a standard for measuring towing capacity. Until then, do your homework, ask questions and evaluate your needs before purchasing your next truck.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

How to Test Drive a Used Car

2010-04-09T18:43:00.001-04:00

When you are purchasing a vehicle, whether it is new or used, the most important thing to do while on the lot is to ask the seller for a test drive. You want to make sure that the car or truck is easy to drive and fits your needs as the driver. There are a lot of components that your should check while you are taking the prospective vehicle for a test drive. New and used cars should be tested differently because used ones have had previous owners and most likely repairs and replacements unlike a new one. Here are some things you should remember when test driving a used car.

The most important thing to remember to ensure your safety is to perform a vehicle check. You should check to make sure there are proper fluids in the car or truck including break, steering, and windshield washing fluid for example. All of the lights should be in proper order such as the brakes, reverse lights, and signals. It is imperative to check the tires because bad or badly worn tires can make the driving experience feel completely different if the tires are in bad shape.

When you are test driving a used car do not be afraid to take your time. Do not feel rushed by the seller or used car dealer. You need to feel comfortable with the feel of the car and how it operates. Be sure to test the blinkers, the radio, the air condition, heater, and windows for example. It is really important to feel how cold or hot the air condition and heaters are. If you are living in an area where it gets really hot in the summers such as Austin, you want your Austin used cars to have cold air. If you live in a very cold area in the winter like in the east, you would want the heater to be in perfect working order.

It is also very important to have an open mind while you are test driving used cars or trucks. You may have your mind set on a certain model or brand, but keep your options open. Used cars run just as good, if not better, than new cars. If you are looking for a new vehicle, do not count out a used car as an option. There are many advantages of buying a used car, and you should take the time to test drive a few used models.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Advantages of a Used Car for your Teen

2010-04-05T13:18:00.002-04:00

Choosing the first car for your teenage driver can be a difficult decision. You want a car for them that is practical, safe, and something they will enjoy driving. Unfortunately, most teens want a brand new car that is expensive and in style. However, you should buy a car that is safe and practical for a first time driver. First time drivers are still processing that driving is a responsibility and a privilege. A lot of car accidents are caused by teens that are inexperienced. There are many advantages of buying a used car rather than a brand new one because of those reasons.

One of the best advantages of buying used rather than new is there will be less worry from the parent about damage. New cars are very expensive and even more expensive to fix. Used cars cost less, yet run just as great as new, and the repairs are usually less expensive. If you buy an older used car that you plan on having your teen only drive through high school, you will be less likely to worry about any minor damages from backing up too quickly or not making the smoothest of turns. There are bound to be small nicks and dings from a new driver. You can always sell or donate the car and not lose a lot of money since the car was used and not brand new.

Another great advantage of a used vehicle is the cost factor. Used cars have less depreciation as a newer car and cost considerably less. Insuring a teenage driver is also very expensive, and the new the car the higher the rates. Older cars are more affordable, and you have to calculate for insurance being more expensive at the start because of the age of the new driver. There is no reason for a 16 year old to be driving a $70,000 vehicle and pay hundreds of dollars every month in insurance. You can purchase a used one for much less money that is still safe and properly functioning.

Older vehicles are usually a little bigger and safer. It is common for a new driver to get into a minor fender bender or back into something. Your teen will be safer in a bigger vehicle and will be likely to only damage the car and not themselves. Older cars still have the same safety features as new cars such as dual air bags. A lot of new cars are made with light, thin materials so they will go faster. Speed is not so great for a new driver as it is for the more experienced.

Used cars are great because if anything was wrong with it, the previous driver would have gotten it fixed. New cars are unpredictable and can have a lot of repairs because it is the first time they are being driven. If your teen is paying for the maintenance of the vehicle, they will save money by owning a used one. Properly maintained used cars run just as smooth as a new car and cost half the price.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Tips for Buying a Used Car or Truck

2010-03-22T13:01:00.003-04:00

There are many advantages for purchasing a used vehicle rather than a new one. The number one advantage is that you do not have to worry about rapid depreciation rates like you would with a new car or truck. The value of a used vehicle is better, and the prices are more affordable and reasonable. There are a lot of selections for used cars and trucks, and you can decide on many different styles and models to choose from. Older vehicles that are well maintained run great and usually only need minor adjustments. When you are ready to purchase a used car or truck here are some tips for buying your vehicle.

Because you are not the sole driver of the used vehicle, it is important to check the history of the car or truck you want to purchase. Properly maintained vehicles can operate and run smoothly for years, but the reliability can decrease if it was in numerous accidents or not maintained. You can get a history report that documents if the vehicle was in any type of accident. If it was, check the repairs to make sure they were addressed.

There are many things you should look at before you drive a used vehicle off the lot. First you should check the body of it and take your time doing so. There should not be visible damage or scratches. You should also look at the interior and make sure there are not any torn seats or other ripped materials. You can tell if the vehicle was well maintained if the interior and body look nice.

If the vehicle you are looking at has power windows, locks, and steering, you should check to make sure everything is in working order. Ask to take the vehicle on a test drive and make sure the windows roll up and down easily, the steering can be maneuvered to your satisfaction, and check to see if the locks work. Electrical problems can be very costly and can cause annoyance if your windows do not roll down for example.

Another important thing to check for is the heating and air conditioning. This is especially important if you live in a very hot or cold climate. For example, the summer in Austin is extremely hot and you will want your Austin used cars to have cold air condition. If you live in the north, for example, it will be very important to have a working heater for the cold winter months.

Used car dealers also do a lot of these inspections for themselves before the purchase a vehicle from someone. You can ask if they have a history report. If you are uncomfortable checking the interior, exterior, and electrical work you can hire a mechanic to look at some of the more technical components. Used vehicles are a great way to go because of the affordability, value, and running lifetime.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Courteous Driving Skills

2010-03-21T11:30:00.001-04:00

Safe and courteous driving should be practiced every day. If more people drove this way then there would be less road rage and fewer accidents. Being nice will get you a long way in life and this also pertains to the road. As drivers, we should follow all driving rules and laws. Take your time, be polite, and drive safely from destination A to destination B. Following these driving tips, and following the rules of four way stops and yield signs, will make you a courteous driver on the road.

First and foremost, know where you are going. If you are driving to a place you have never been before or are driving in unfamiliar locations, look up maps of the area. You can look up maps online or buy a road map to familiarize yourself with the location you will be driving in. It is a great safety tip to have printed road maps in your vehicle for emergency situations. Even if you have GPS, you should still be familiar with where you are going beforehand. If you know which roads or freeways to take, you are less likely to drive slow, cause traffic, or cut people off. We have all seen the driver that slows down at every road sign to check the name of a street, and sometimes we have even been that driver.

Being courteous on the road will require you to be tolerant and polite. There are different ways to be courteous to other drivers. If someone is driving faster than you or seems to be in a hurry, you should let them pass you safely. Yield when you need to and don’t ignore stop signs or yield signs. If you are making a lane change or a turn, it is polite and safe to use your signal. Doing so will avoid accidents or cutting off other drivers. If you are the driver who is going faster, don’t tailgate or act with road rage. Also, if someone happens to cut you off don’t honk your horn or yell at them through the window. If the driver is really aggressive, you can call the police and report the driver. If you accidently cut someone off, you can apologize by waving your hand in the rearview mirror for them to see and to acknowledge you made a mistake.

You don’t need to be a bully on the road or try to enforce driving rules for other drivers. Be polite, tolerant, and aware of how and where you are driving. Being a courteous driver will ensure your safety and you can avoid accidents and road rage.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Simple Ways to Keep Your Driving Safe

2010-03-18T20:35:00.000-04:00

It is nearly spring and as spring breaks come up, the weather warms and vacation time rolls around, more and more people will be on the road. With that, it is time to practice extra caution, not only in the way you drive but also in watching others and their driving. Taking a these few tips into consideration and making them a part of your daily driving can help protect you, your family and those around you. They include:

1. Never Insist on The Right of Way - If you and another driver encounter a situation where both of you have the right of way or maybe even you do but the other driver is challenging you, yield to that person. Always remember that the goal is to get home safely. Try to put your irritation and ego in check and let the person go first.

2. Be Aware of Your Surroundings - Drivers are multitasking these days while driving. Whether they are talking on the phone, eating, texting or even applying makeup, they can be a danger to you. To protect yourself and your vehicle, always be alert to what other drivers are doing. Scan the road constantly, both ahead of you and behind you. Also follow the 'two-second-plus-rule' that allows a safe distance between your car and the one in front of you.

3. Slow Down - We are all in a hurry to get where we are going and yet there is nothing more dangerous than rushing. Slow down and obey traffic laws. Don't run red lights nor zip quickly in and out of lanes.

4. Learn To Drive Again - This may sound crazy but most of us learned how to drive when we were sixteen. Could we possibly still remember all the rules to driving? You would be surprised what rules you thought you knew but were violating. Taking a defensive driving course can be very helpful in ensuring you are driving as safely as possible and potentially prevent you from getting a ticket or in an accident.

5. If Tired, Rest - Many accidents are caused by drivers who are drowsy. Statistics show that tired drivers are just as dangerous as drunk drivers. If you spend a lot of time behind the wheel, be sure to stop and rest frequently and refresh. Get out of your car, stretch your legs, feel the fresh air on your face, look at something different besides miles of highway before you. Giving your brain something else to do and think about will help you become more focused.

6. Watch Those Blind Spots - Every driver has blind spots, yet do you know where yours are or potentially theirs? To protect yourself from blind spots, don't change lanes without turning and looking for other vehicles both in your mirrors and by turning your head. Signal when changing lanes in case you miss something. If you have an idea of where your blind spots are then you know where the other vehicles are, therefore, don't drive in their blindspots if you can help it.

By practicing defensive driving and being alert as much as possible, you will be surprised in how near misses, stay near misses and don't become collisions.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used car Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

How to Effectively Handle Road Rage

2010-02-26T11:47:00.001-05:00

Crowded streets, rush hour traffic, and tired drivers can lead to some events of road rage especially in a big city with a lot of drivers. You shouldn’t let it get the best of you or fall victim to an accident because of it. You should also never be the driver who is initiating road rage because it is dangerous and rude to say the least. Unfortunately, we have all encountered it at some point as a driver and should know how to effectively handle road rage while we are driving. This can be especially scary for a new driver who is being tail gated or honked at. Even experienced drivers can get flustered when they encounter it. Here are some tips for effectively handling road rage.

The first tip, and perhaps the most important, is to keep your cool. You don’t want to get as angry as the person using road rage to get their way while driving. If you get mad or flustered, you could lose your concentration on the road and cause or be victim to an accident. Using road rage to counter road rage is ineffective. You have to be the bigger person in these situations and remain, calm, cool, and collected. Vehicles shouldn’t be used as weapons or a means to intimidate anyone.

If you encounter a bully on the road, you should ignore them. Ignoring the road rage can be one of your best defenses. If someone is yelling out of their window at you, you should keep driving and never respond. Keep your window rolled up and don’t yell back or gesture anything rude back. Avoid contact with the driver at all costs. Unless there is an accident, never get out to talk to the driver or try to make them pull over. Likewise, if they want you to pull over just keep driving.

If the road rage is really bad and becoming a danger to any driver, you should contact the police. Tailgating or swerving can lead to accidents. Because of new cell phone safety laws, you will need to pull over to call the police. Pull over in a safe location or find a nearby exit to pull off the road to make the call. If the driver sees you on the phone, and you can safely make the call while you are driving, the road raged driver might back off a bit. If you feel that calling the police isn’t necessary, you may just want to pull off the road to avoid the driver and let them get a head start on the road from you. Stopping on the side of a busy highway can be dangerous, so look for the nearest exit to get on a frontage road or another place to stop like in a parking lot or gas station.

When dealing with road rage remember to stay calm, be safe, and call for help when necessary. Remembering these tips while driving can make your trip safe and effective for handling unfavorable situations.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Proper Vehicle Fluids

2010-02-09T19:46:00.002-05:00

Maintaining your vehicle is important because it ensures that it will run smooth and last longer. Maintenance involves more than oil changes and detailing it. Your vehicle needs proper fluids to operate safely and last longer. Having low fluid levels can cause premature break downs or even accidents. These are the fluids you should check in your vehicle on a regular time schedule.

First and very important is brake fluid. The level should always be full at the most to two thirds full at the least. This fluid system is a closed one, so if you find that the fluid runs low a lot there could be a leak and should be fixed immediately. If you are unsure of how or where to check the brake fluid, refer to the owner’s manual for your vehicle. Usually the compartment to check is near the engine, and will be labeled brake fluid reservoir.

Perhaps the most important fluid in your car or truck is the oil. You should change the oil yourself or get an oil change every three months or three thousand miles, whichever comes first. Just like the blood in our bodies, the oil is the bloodline in our cars. It should be clean and properly filled. When changing the oil and replacing the oil filter, be sure that you or your mechanic are using the proper oil for your vehicle. There are different grades and qualities, so check the owner’s manual to find which one you need.

Transmission fluid can be a little more risky to check because it has to be done while your vehicle is running. You check the levels of fluid here like you do the oil. There is a dipstick with a leveler on it that is located next to the oil dipstick. Because the car is running while you do this, unlike the oil, don’t wear loose clothing or low hanging jewelry. Usually you won’t need to fill the fluid because it will hardly ever be low. It’s good to check though because a low reading could mean there’s a leak.

Another really important fluid that should be checked weekly is coolant or antifreeze. It prevents the engine from overheating or freezing up in cold weather. This is really easy to check and refill when it gets low. Pay attention to the type of coolant you purchase because some need to be mixed with water. The fluid is a bright green color and is easy to check because there is a reservoir right near the front of the hood next to the radiator. If the levels are low a lot you run the risk of overheating and ruining the vehicle’s engine.

If the power steering starts to make noises when you turn your car, you probably are low of power steering fluid. The reservoir for the power steering is usually always next to the belts under the hood. In cars, it’s usually on the passenger side. If the fluid level is low you will have a hard time steering which will make for unsafe driving conditions. Normally, the reservoir is clear so you can see if you need to refill the power steering, but if it isn’t just unscrew the cap and look in the reservoir.

Another liquid that should be filled for safety reasons but won’t harm your vehicle if the level is low is windshield wiper fluid. In the event of dirt or bugs getting on your windshield while driving, you need to keep your view clear when you drive by cleaning the windshield.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Emergency Preparedness Kit for Your Car

2010-02-04T15:30:00.003-05:00

Driving a vehicle can be a very pleasant experience, but we have to keep in mind that safety should always be our top priority. As a driver, you hope that there won’t be any car accidents, traffic jams, terrible weather, or accidents in the car from kids or other unruly passengers. Living in Austin, TX, most of us know how the weather can take a turn for the worse. During the winter months, we have to be cautious of ice storms, freezing, and heavy rain when we are lucky. Unfortunately, inclement weather can make the roads hazardous. If you live in the hill country you have to be on the lookout for deer on the roads in the spring which can cause some very serious accidents. If something were to go wrong, you should be prepared for any situation with an emergency preparedness kit for your car.

If you are a parent driver, you know that kids can get cuts or scrapes from playing around in the car. It is always handy to have plenty of band aids available. There are other necessities that you will need for your car kit, including fluids for your car in case there is a break down. Here are some tips and materials to use when making an emergency preparedness car kit.

If nothing else, you should always make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. In the event of a breakdown, you can do some trouble shooting to see what the problem is. A lot of times the vehicle is out or low of proper fluids. Your car kit should include motor oil, a gallon of water, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, power-steering, and brake fluid. If you have the space in your kit or somewhere else, include a funnel so that pouring liquids in will be easier. It’s also a good idea to keep a few old rags to clean up with.

Once you have fluids for your car, you can work on materials for your car kit in case someone in the vehicle is hurt from an accident or other mishap. A standard first aid kit should include band aids, gauze, bandages, something for sterilization like alcohol wipes, scissors, instant cold pack, adhesive tape, gloves, and pain relievers. If you have medication that you need daily, such as insulin or an inhaler, you should include them in your kit as well.

Other items that will come in handy in case you are stranded or lost should be considered as well. When ice storms hit in Austin, some cars can get stranded over night on the road. This happened to a lot of people commuting out of Austin on their way home from work. Your emergency kit should include blankets, flash lights, batteries, energy or protein bars, toilet paper, jumper cables, road flares, and a battery powered or solar powered radio. These items are especially important if you are going on a long road trip, camping trip, or a day of off-roading.

You should always be prepared for any situation that might arise while you are in your car and on the road. It is better to be safe than sorry. You can encounter bad weather, a break down, or a car accident whether you are in Austin used cars or new cars, and you should always be prepared. Being prepared is your key to safety while on the road.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Take the Scenic Route

2010-01-25T16:21:00.003-05:00

One of the best things about buying a car is taking it out on the open road to see how it works whether it is a used car or a brand new one. Texas has some of the most beautiful scenic routes in all of the country. And lucky enough for the capital, Austin offers some of the greatest scenic routes in and surrounding the city. Austin, TX is known for its friendly hill country with rolling hills and two lane country roads. It is a fun way to spend a weekend or time with your new used car to drive on some of Austin’s scenic routes. It can also be a great way to change your commute to and from work every day. Taking a scenic route can make your drive a little more enjoyable.

Believe it or not, there are scenic routes in the downtown Austin area. Driving north on Congress Avenue will offer you views of the capitol building in all its glory. You can also look north and west down different streets at some of the newly built high rise condos or historical buildings throughout town. You can see the State Capitol from Mopac, IH 35 and Loop 360; however Congress Avenue is the best way to see it.

Driving outside of the downtown area offers scenic routes into the rolling hills known as the Texas Hill Country. If you are heading west into Westlake, you can take Bee Caves road which west of Loop 360. There is a portion of the road where you can pull off to take pictures of downtown and a glimpse into the country. The scenic overlook also shows off some of the 360 cliffs.

The gateway into the hill country starts in Dripping Springs which is located off of Highway 290 West. Taking this scenic route is a great place to drive your new Austin used cars. Dripping Springs has cute shops, great restaurants, and will lead you to places like Hamilton Pool, Pedernales State Park, or Johnson City.

If you prefer a route to some beautiful water you can take Highway 620 out towards Lake Travis. The drive out there is almost as much fun as playing in the water. You cross over Mansfield Dam, have breathtaking views of the lake, million dollar homes, and green country oak trees.

Taking a scenic route is more fun and more beautiful than driving on IH 35 in Austin. It is a fun way to drive and familiarize yourself with your new used car, or a great way to spend your time driving to or from work. You don’t have to have a new car or an excuse to take a scenic route. Austin offers some of the most beautiful views in Texas, and you can enjoy them from your car anytime you want.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable Austin used cars and is known as one of the best used cars austin dealers. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

A Deer in the Headlights

2009-09-27T19:28:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again where collisions are all too common between vehicles and deer. Between the deer population seeking out more living space due to humans encroaching on them and the increase of male deer activity between October through December with mating season - the chance of your car being in an accident with a deer is highly possible.
 So what can you do to potentially avoid such collisions? Here are some suggestions from various professionals:
1. Watch Forested Areas - Deer live in forests, there is no way around it. If you are driving through their territory you need to be extra cautious. Deer cross roads for a wide variety of reasons and at different times of the year. Often they are moving around their habitat. Even if you are familiar with a roadway and haven't seen deer crossing it, know that deer can change their migration patterns. When driving through forested areas, watch both sides of the roads for any signs of wildlife, signs of movement, flashes of eyes or body shapes.

2. Drive at a safe speed - Keeping your speed down while driving through places you know there will be deer will help you come to a quicker stop and possibly brake as well as possibly avoid hitting the deer in the first place. Wildlife experts have recommended 55 mph as a suitable speed for wildlife zones in good weather conditions, as it provides you with some reaction time to stop. Of course, in blizzards, heavy rain and other difficult weather, you should adjust your speed to the distance you are able to see and to take into account the amount of ice on the road.

3. Drive defensively - Being on the lookout for deer as well as being prepared to take evasive action such as quickly slowing down or braking is important. Make sure your seat belt is on and check that all passengers are wearing theirs as well. A sudden lurch could have people catapulting from the car.

4. Drive More Cautiously At Sunset, Sunrise and At Night - Deer and moose seem to move most in the hours around sunset to midnight and again around dawn. These are also the hardest times for our eyes to adjust to the light (it's neither completely dark nor properly light), so we find it more difficult to see well. At night, use your high beams when possible as it will help illuminate more of the area that you are traveling through.

While avoiding an accident with a deer could be impossible, there are some things you can do if you encounter one. First, try not to instinctively swerve or leave your lane if a deer jumps out in front of you. If you suddenly have a deer before your car, brake firmly. Swerving can result in colliding with another drive in the opposite lane. Try to skim rather than fully impact the animal. When braking, angle your car/truck and take your foot off the brake as you impact. The release of the brake will cause slight lift of the vehicle and this may be enough to stop the animal from rising into your windshield if your vehicle is tall enough.

If you see one deer cross in front of you, know there are probably more to come. Deer travel in herds. Be cautious also around waterways that intersect with the road such as creeks, swamps, and wetlands. The road is an easy pathway out of these waterways for an animal, so there is a higher possibility that they may be around them.
It may be that time of year for the deer to show up in abundance but with a little caution, you can help yourself avoid an accident.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Are Your Tires Safe For All Seasons

2009-09-18T07:29:00.000-04:00

Tire safety is something many don't take into consideration, until their tires fail them. Most forget that their tires are the only contact between their vehicle and the road and therefore how critical they are.
Maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits (not carrying more weight in your vehicle than your tires or vehicle can safely handle), avoiding road hazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, and other irregularities are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure. Regular maintenance of your tires will also help with:
• Improving vehicle handling
• Protecting you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accident
• Improving fuel economy
• Increasing the life of your tires.
Properly maintained tires also improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your vehicle. When your tires are under inflated and overloaded, this is when you can face serious tire failure. To avoid flat tires and other types of tire failure, here are a few things you should do:
1. Check Tire Pressure - Keeping tires properly inflated can boost fuel efficiency by one mile per gallon. Before any long trip and once a month, check the pressure of each. The carmaker's recommended tire pressure is on the tire placard and can be found near the driver's doorjamb, on the glove compartment door or in the owner's manual. Tire information placards and vehicle certification labels contain information on tires and load limits. These labels indicate the vehicle manufacturer's information including: Recommended tire size, recommended tire inflation pressure, Vehicle capacity weight (VCW–the maximum occupant and cargo weight a vehicle is designed to carry), Front and rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWR– the maximum weight the axle systems are designed to carry).  2. Rotate Tires Regularly. Regular rotation helps extend the life of your tires, saving time and money in the long run. Rotation ensures your tire's wear is even and therefore helps your tires last longer. If no period is specified in your vehicle's owner's manual, tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.   3. Keep Proper Vehicle Alignment. Alignment generally refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's front and rear suspension parts. Proper alignment helps ensure that your vehicle handles correctly and will help increase the life and performance of your tires.  4. Keep Tires Balanced. To get optimal performance from your tires, they should be balanced. When tire and wheel assemblies are unbalanced, vibration from the wheel assembly shakes from side to side or the tire and wheel assemblies hop up and down. It is important that these assemblies are in both static and dynamic balance.  5. Check Tire Tread Depth and Replace Worn Tires. In most states, the minimum legal tread depth is 2/32 of an inch. If you place a penny with the top of the head facing down into your tires' shallowest groove and you can see the top of Abraham Lincoln's head, it's time to replace your tires.

By practicing these few simple steps and becoming in the habit of them, you will save yourself money and more importantly keep yourself and those who ride with you safe. 
Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

The Incredible Value of GPS Units

2009-09-10T15:07:00.000-04:00

Traveling, finding your way around the city, all can be taxing if you are trying to drive and read a map at the same time. And then new roads are built, detours are here and there, traffic jams occur - so what does one do? Thanks to Global Positioning Systems or GPS, one can easily take the stress out of driving. Plug in your destination within your system and allow it to give you directions along the way. No more glancing down at the map while driving and trying to figure out alternative routes.

GPS has become one of the most rapidly purchased system used both commercially and non-commercially. The main systems are managed by the National Space-Based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Executive Committee, supported by the PNT Executive Secretariat The basic GPS is defined as the constellation of satellites, the navigation payloads which produce the GPS signals, ground stations, data links, and associated command and control facilities which are operated and maintained by the Department of Defense. GPS permits land, sea, and airborne users to determine their three dimensional position, velocity, and time, 24 hours a day in all weather, anywhere in the world.

Having a GPS unit in your vehicle not only increases the value of your car but also can help you save gas and prevent many a headache. For instance, with a GPS unit, you can ask it to help you navigate to your destination via the shortest route, which means it will figure out how to get from Point A to Point B with fewer miles. If you aren't interested in cutting miles off your trip but time, there is also the Fastest Route. Now, for instance, if the road you are traveling on is under construction or is blocked due to an accident, your GPS unit will automatically reconfigure an alternative route for you - meaning, no more driving around aimlessly looking for a way around the roadblock. This saves time, gas and money.

Many GPS units come with traffic information, others require you to purchase it in addition to your unit. Having traffic details will help you automatically determine where there is congestion or traffic build up, before you approach it and give you alternative routes. This is a godsend for those who have to work in the city and must get to their jobs on time.

Traveling to a new area that you have never been to and want to know where the rest stops are, gas stations, coffee shops or hotels are? Amazingly enough, GPS units can provide you with these as well. This is great when driving long distances and trying to make the best of your time. Knowing exactly where the next gas station is, how far, how long it will take to get to it, is amazing. If it is dark outside, no worries, your lit GPS unit will inform you of everything you will need on your route.

GPS units also are a safety feature as drivers are no longer gazing down at maps but reliably listening to their navigation guide on their GPS unit.

While GPS devices are common among luxury cars, no worries. There are many portable devices on the market that can be purchased and temporarily attached to your windshield or dash. These units can be installed and removed in seconds.

Some GPS units are directly hooked into a 911 emergency response system. The unit will automatically call in to 911 when you are in an accident. The unit itself serves as a marker for where you are located, which is helpful should you be unconscious from the accident.

Yes, GPS units are becoming almost a necessary standard feature needed for most vehicles. When purchasing your next vehicle, ask if it comes with a GPS unit. If not, look into purchasing a portable unit - it will well be worth its investment.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Getting Your Car To Look and Smell New Again

2009-08-25T15:35:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered how the car dealerships are able to make used cars look so new? Not only do they look new, but they smell new. What the dealerships do is no secret and even something you can do yourself - it is called 'detailing.'

How do you detail your car?

1. Examine Your Car's Paint Before Washing - Why would you need to do this? If there are minor scratches, these details will need to be dealt with before washing. There are scratch removers on the market and filling scratches before washing and waxing is an important way to start. When you do finally wash your car it will be important to clean it from the top down. If you start at the bottom, as many people do, the dirt from the top will drip down onto the bottom half and you will have to start again.
2. Evaluate the Interior of the Car - In evaluating the interior of your car, use a notepad to item out what needs to be cleaned, what types of cleaning products you might need to get it clean and whether the upholstery needs scrubbed or just vacuumed. Are there weird smells in the car? You may need a disinfectant. Stains will have their own way of needing to be dealt with as well. What do you use on those stains?

Common cleaning agents for interior stains include:

Neutral detergent (Ivory Liquid) & water (1:20)
Mild ammonia & water solution (1:5)
Distilled white vinegar & water (1:1)
Dry-cleaning fluid (Carbona, Renuzit, Perk)

Tools you'll need to remove interior stains include:

Spatula or putty knife
Clean, white terry cloth towels
Soft bristle scrub brush
Wet-dry vacuum

3. Now For The Tires - Tires often get neglected in the cleaning process and yet they make a huge difference when clean. Check the color of your tires - is there dirt buildup on them. Many car washes now have tire cleaning products and scrub brushes you can use.

4. Cleaning Your Glass - One would think just using a bottle of cleanser will do the trick when cleaning the glass in your car. Fact is, if you have tinting, an ammonia-based product will ruin it. Ammonia can also release dangerous fumes. When cleaning your windows, first make sure you are working out of the sun. There are various glass cleaners out there you can use along with microfiber towels. Make sure your towel is clean as well, don't use the towel you just used to wash the tires with. Roll down your windows slightly to get the edges of the windows.

5. Detail Cleaning - Working inside the vehicle, clean all of your plastic gauge lenses with a glass cleaner - not wax. Remove knobs and clean bevels underneath. Dry with a clean soft dry cloth. To make it shiny, spray plastic polish and spread it evenly with soft brush. Don't spray fluids directly on the stereo, use a brush instead to get into tight spots.

6. Final Body Wash - Again, work in the shade if possible when washing your car. Use carwash soap, not a household detergent, and work in sections, from the top down. The lower panels tend to accumulate more abrasive dirt. To do a final rinse, remove the spray head from the hose and flood the finish. The water will tend to run off in sheets, minimizing spotting. Dry with a good-quality chamois or a soft thick-nap terry cloth towel. Spray out the wheel wells with a high-pressure setting. Once the car is completely cleaned, you can now polish or wax it. Don't forget the small areas like doorjambs, door hinges, behind the bumpers. You can polish out many minor scratches. There are nongloss finish products you can add to rubber and plastic on your car. If you accidentally get wax on the rubber, you can wipe it down with a towel or apply microwaved peanut butter with a toothbrush - the peanut butters oils will dissolve the wax and lift the stain.

If you want to clean under your hood, cover your electronic components with plastic and then spray a diluted all-purpose cleaner on metals, hosing it off with light water pressure. Vinyl/rubber protectant will dress up nonmetal areas. Let it soak in if you like the glossy look, or wipe it on and off for a more matte finish.

Your car now can have that brand new appearance. While most of us don't have the time to completely detail out our cars monthly, doing it even twice a year will make you feel as if you have purchased a new vehicle.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Picking Your Next Vehicle And All Its Options

2009-08-02T01:27:00.001-04:00

If you are ready to purchase your next vehicle, you are probably going through a mental checklist on what it is you want or need. Today, choosing the right car goes beyond how great it looks, how fast it goes and whether it is economical. There are so many choices in regards to options and features now, that one can truly go to town with their decision.

What are some of these features? To start, how about safety. While safety isn't in the bells and whistles category, it is of great value to many people. If you want to know how the vehicle you are looking at rates safety wise, try researching it through organizations such as the well-regarded Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In researching, look for manufacturers that consistently achieve the IIHS' "Top Safety Pick." The NHTSA awards 5-Star ratings to vehicles with the highest crash and rollover safety.

Other cool features include consoles. Consoles in vehicles have come a long way. Today, car manufacturers are coming out with what is called multipurpose center consoles. Such consoles utilize a center bin that can be customized to hold CDs, personal items or even a laptop computer. Add to that the 12-volt power point and you have a place to charge your electronics. And then there is the cool auxiliary audio input for iPods and other MP3 players along with small slots built into the side of the console for organizing the routing of power cords.

Overhead consoles and advanced gloveboxes also help utilize space. These overhead consoles or "airplane style" consoles can include three large storage bins, one small bin, four air vents, four lights and up to two 8-inch DVD entertainment screens (when properly equipped).

Gloveboxes have also come a long way too and hold a lot more than a pair of gloves. Some vehicles come with twin gloveboxes, which may be opened electronically. There is even a vehicle that allows storage for small personal items in a dash bin to the left of the steering wheel.

How about washable interior surfaces? This feature that some vehicle manufacturers are implementing includes a black urethane-coated utility flooring that allows one to haul muddy mountain bikes or wet snowboards, which can easily be hosed out. Waterproof seating upholstery (called FXC — "fabric for extreme conditions") keeps the chairs stain-free. Rubberized floors and water-resistant seats with sealed seams to keep everything intact when rinsed out. There is also rear sliding storage trays in some vehicles that extend 18 inches beyond the rear bumper for simple cargo loading and unloading. Up to 400 pounds may be placed on the unit. A separate rear cargo tray is "reversible," creating a walled bin useful for carrying balls or other objects with the potential to slide. An asymmetrical tailgate on some SUV's allows easy loading when both closed and open. The short half on the passenger side lets users load cargo easily when closed, and the long driver-side half provides a luggage/gear storage shelf when down.

How about a partially exposed Lazy Suzan (rotating storage tray) beneath the passenger floor - yes there is a vehicle with this too. Or a retractable dry-cleaning hook?

And storage? Many car manufacturers are realizing people want more and more storage in their vehicles. Today, vehicles come with things like passenger compartment storage and super folding seats. Folding second- and third-row seats that fold completely flat into the floor is another cool feature. When the seats are upright, there's plenty of storage below the floor.

The choices are endless in today's vehicles, making driving and owning your vehicle more fun than ever. So before you pick out your next vehicle, make a list of items you find will enhance your driving experience and do a little shopping around.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Choosing Safety Features in Your Next Car

2009-07-28T10:46:00.000-04:00

Today’s vehicle owners are getting pickier about the type of car they buy. One of the features valued is safety. So what does one look for if they are seeking a safe car?

To start, there are many ways a vehicle can be ‘safe’. For instance, there is safety in regards to collisions and accidents, and then there is the other safety – that which assists potentially vulnerable people when getting in and out of their vehicle or when traveling alone.

In terms of accident safety, the most important feature of a vehicle, that typically comes standard are the seatbelts. Lap belts are becoming less and less common, only to be replaced by seat belts that have three anchorage points. Even if you are sitting in the middle or the back, most lap straps or 'two-point' belts, which are very ineffective and can fail to save a person's life, have been replaced with the three-point belt.

The second safety feature in a vehicle is its airbags. To date, statistics show that airbags reduce the risk of dying in a direct frontal crash by about 30 percent. Airbags combined with seatbelts are important combinations in vehicle safety. Depending on your air bags alone isn’t sufficient and many states have seat belt laws whereupon you can be fined for not wearing them. When it comes to airbags and buying your next vehicle, make sure it not only has front airbags, but ask about side airbags as well. The side airbags are designed to protect your pelvis and torso, and 'curtain' airbags protect the side of one's head in a side impact or a rollover situation. Many vehicles today have up to six or even eight airbags.

When looking at various makes and models when purchasing your next vehicle, do some research and find out how it rated in crash testing. Otherwise, there are some obvious safety features such as, vehicles with full-time all-wheel drive and four-wheel disc brakes can enhance your vehicle’s performance and potentially contribute to safety. Or, having a vehicle that has enough power to keep you out of trouble is important.

Size is another consideration. Heavier and larger vehicles are generally safer than lighter ones. Fatality statistics support this in that lighter cars account for twice as many deaths as the heavier ones. Anti-lock brakes or anti-locking system (ABS), which means the vehicle has a special breaking mechanism that gives you much more control on the road compared to simple traditional brakes, is definitely a nice safety feature. Slamming on the brakes in a vehicle with no ABS means the wheels will lock up and often skid or make the driver lose control. With ABS, your brakes are pumped for you allowing your car to stop gradually and quickly at the same time.

Other new technology coming out on the market to enhance the safety of vehicles includes:

1. Roll Stability Control - Roll Stability Control utilizes gyroscopic sensors to measure both yaw and roll. The system will automatically assist the driver in maintaining control and reducing the risk of rollover.

2. Side Curtain Airbags – These airbags automatically deploy during a rollover or side-impact accident. While we have seen this technology in some vehicles, car companies are trying to make it a standard piece of equipment.

3. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) – This is a Ford feature that includes a monitoring system for your tire’s pressure. There is a radio transmitter mounted inside each tire so that when tire pressure exceeds a specified limit range, the system activates a warning light and message in message center equipped vehicles.

4. Adaptive Front Lighting – Adaptive front lighting systems is something new many car companies are playing with. Depending on the company, this feature can vary. For Ford, the lighting system features swiveling headlights, computer-optimized lighting, and adjustable angle headlights that compensate for vehicle load, acceleration and braking. The headlights also feature an electro-mechanical washing system that cleans headlight lenses.

Last, are features for your personal safety. If you are someone who travels a lot alone or in remote parts of the country or city, the first level of safety, is making sure your remote control, or key, initially unlocks one door only. Unlocking all of your doors simultaneously creates a risk that someone could enter your vehicle, or reach in and grab something, as you are getting in. Another safety feature is lighting that can be turned on through your key fob. Some vehicles have integrated what is called ‘approach lighting’ so that your vehicle is lit up around its exterior before you enter it. Approach Lighting technology can also be located behind the mirror glass so that when activated by the key fob or by opening a door, a bright light is directed through the glass to illuminate the vehicle's door handles and surrounding entry area, making it safer and easier to enter the vehicle.

While many safety features are finally becoming standard, there are many vehicles on the market that have not integrated them yet. So if you are seeking a vehicle that is safe, do your homework and find out what it is your are seeking and what its priority is for you – it is most likely you will then find the type of safe car you have been searching for.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Teaching Your Teen To Drive Safely

2009-07-28T10:42:00.001-04:00

Your child has become a teenager, and more than that, one that is getting a license to drive. If this is your situation, there are a few tips you can practice to help keep your teen safe.

To start, enroll your teen in driver education, if it is available in your community. Having your teen take drivers education is invaluable and it allows somebody else to teach them to drive, which could be worth more than its weight in gold for both you and your teen. If you don’t find a drivers education course in your town, you can still help your teen with some preemptive driving tips.

In America, the high rate of teen driving accidents and fatalities is due to 16 year olds being thrown behind the wheel without any experience or knowledge. Instead of counting on a few weeks or months of "driver's ed" to get your teen ready for the road, take it upon yourself (or get your spouse or another mature adult with good driving skills) to start the process much earlier, around age 14 or so.

Next, remember to educate your teen about the basics of driving such as not following other cars too closely, practicing proper merging techniques, using their turn signals and maintaining situational awareness of one's vehicle in relation to the other vehicles on the road by frequently checking side and rearview mirrors. Practicing in empty parking lots is helpful for basic driving lessons as well as learning to park and Parallel Park. If you know somebody who has a vehicle with manual transmission is especially recommend -- as it takes more skill, concentration and coordination. You can never over prepare your child for driving, the more the better.

When working with your child in teaching them to drive, take the process a little at a time so both you and your teen don’t get overly frustrated. Short trips in familiar areas with little traffic and slow speeds, and more importantly, during the day is helpful. Work into teaching your teen to drive at night later, after they have had some more experience. You probably should even enforce a rule that your teen shouldn’t drive at night or with other teens for at least the first month or two.

Ride with your teen as much as possible to observe how they react to stressful situations and what driving rules they forget so that you can remind them. Some teens pick up driving quickly and have good coordination. Don’t slack on reprimanding your teen driver when it comes to both dangerous habits (such as tailgating and failure to pay attention) as well as any signs of rudeness or discourtesy toward other motorists.

Zero tolerance of immature/irresponsible driving is important with your teen. Restricting your teen for careless or irresponsible driving such as running red lights, drinking or driving, or being dangerous, is important. As a parent, you have the right to set the boundaries and determine whether your child may drive -- or not -- until they are 18 and on their own.

Once your teen gets a few hours under their belt you can begin working with them on emergency maneuvers. If you don’t feel qualified in teaching this, there are specialty schools that will show your teen how to drive on ice, learn how to control a car in a skid control and not to panic brake.

When buying your teen their first car, try to avoid large SUV’s or sports cars. A teen’s first car should be predictable in its handling and easy to drive. SUV’s for teens can be difficult to steer and sports cars just have too much power for them. Teens like showing off and a sports car would just be too tempting to race.

Last, educate your teen about carrying the proper identification on them and in their car. They will need proof of insurance and registration in most states to drive legally. They will also have to remember to carry their drivers’ license.

Practicing these few simple things will help protect your teen driver from themselves as they learn the very large responsibility of getting on the road.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Modern Car Care Myths

2009-07-17T18:48:00.000-04:00

Our vehicles can be costly, and for that reason, we all want to take good care of them and make sure we can get as much life out of them as possible. In this, most of us want to know what we should do to help our vehicles along – but we also want to know what not to do, so that we aren’t wasting our money.

So – what are some of the basic car care myths professionals have identified?

1. Myth #1 – Tune-ups – How often should you have your vehicle tuned up? Do you know? Most engines are computer monitored and controlled – the good news with this is, they don’t need tune-ups as often as a traditional engine. There was a time that with a standard tune-up, it often called for new ignition parts such as a distributor cap, spark plugs, and points and rotors. Besides spark plugs, which usually don't have to be changed until 100,000 miles, today's cars aren't built with points and rotors, and many engines don't have distributor caps that need replacement as often.

2. Myth #2 – Having Your Car Lubricated – In the old days, cars had chassis that needed lubrication. All that metal, potential rust – you name it, the car needed to be greased. But now, cars are a combination of metal and plastic and therefore need little additional lubrication.

3. Myth #3 – Flushing Your Radiator Annually - Manufacturers have made significant advancements in engine cooling systems during the past few years with closed systems that recirculate coolant. These new systems don't lose coolant as often, and coolant manufacturers have also made advancements in their products' chemical components with synthetic materials, making the seasonal radiator flush almost extinct. It is still important to check fluid levels periodically--especially before long trips--and use the manufacturer-recommended coolant. You should change your coolant about every four years. Coolant chemicals last longer than they used to, and newer engines aren't going to be damaged by leaving it in long.

When changing your coolant, try a premixed formulation rather than adding tap water, which contains minerals that can cause trouble.

Some coolants will need to be mixed with water, in this case use only distilled water which doesn’t have the hard minerals in it.

For those who live in extreme climates, hot or cold, then you should be paying much more attention to your coolant than others.

4. Myth #4 - Wheel Alignment – We all want to keep our car in balance and were taught growing up to make sure our vehicle had the tires rotated frequently so that it stayed in alignment. Although it's important to keep tires properly maintained and inflated, it's not always necessary to have them aligned every time they are rotated. A majority of manufacturers recommend a wheel alignment and wheel balance only if there is a major issue with the car pulling to one side or another.

5. Myth #5: Winterize Your Car – Many grew up with the notion that before winter came, you had to winterize your car. Your car’s maintenance doesn't have to be tied to the seasons. Today’s modern cars don’t require the same amount of attention. Professionals say, other than possibly changing to winter tires, modern cars don't require special attention at this time of year the way that your parents' car might have.

What can you do for your car before winter? During colder months, it is advisable for you to keep more gas in your car's tank. Why – this is due to the fact air carries moisture and water, which can freeze and crystallize. The more gas in the tank, the less air - and less chance of ice forming inside where it could get into fuel lines and cause trouble, he says.

So, don’t spend unnecessarily, in these times, we all want to be a bit wiser about where our dollar goes. And enjoy your car for as long as you have it.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Stolen Cars – Not Mine!

2009-06-29T12:40:00.001-04:00

We have read about it and heard about it on the news, somebody’s car getting stolen. But we never can imagine it happening to us. The fact of the matter is, if it hasn’t happened to you, then you have been lucky as statistically, a car is stolen every 23 seconds in the United States with a total of nearly 1.4 million vehicles stolen in all. According to the FBI, auto theft is an estimated $7.5 billion business,

Where is your car most likely to get stolen at? According to statistics, certain regions of the United States are more susceptible to theft than others. The highest amount of auto theft occurs in the Southern states, at a 35% rate. This is followed by Western states at 28%, Midwestern states at 20%, the last is Northeastern States 17%.

Is there a time of year that cars are stolen more often? Not really. Crime rates only increase slightly between January and July. The lowest percentage of auto thefts occurs in February and April, probably because of fewer days in the month.

If you live in a small town, your percentages drop even more in regards to the theft averages. Most auto thefts typically occur in larger cities. Again, this may just be a matter of numbers due to the fact that there are more cars in cities and more people are parking on the streets or in open parking lots. In rural areas people tend to have garages or big properties with long driveways. Theft rarely occurs in rural yards that have dogs and seem more obscure.

If you are hoping to recover your car, again, you are more likely to have better results if you live in a small town or rural area. This is again due to the fact that there are fewer people and a smaller search area and therefore the police don’t have to search as hard as police in large cities. In large cities there could be thousands of similar looking vehicles in traffic, making it difficult to pick out the stolen car.

How long does it take for a thief to steal your car? Statistics show that an experienced car thief can steal your car in less than a minute. While some cars are hot-wired other thieves may just smash the drivers’ window in. For the most part, cars are seemingly stolen for the value of their parts rather than resale or personal use. According to insurance companies, a $20,000 stolen vehicle can be stripped and sold into $30,000 worth of parts.

Now, if you live in the city and are getting concerned, not to worry. There are some precautions you can take to help make the statistics favorable to you. They include:
• Never hide a second set of keys in your car. Extra keys can be easily found if a thief takes time to look.
• Lock Your Car. Approximately 50 percent of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
• Park in attended lots. Auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking lots.
• If you park in an attended lot, leave only the ignition/door key. If your trunk and glovebox use the same key as the door, have one of them changed. Don't give the attendant easy access to your glovebox and trunk. Upon returning, check the tires, spare tire, and battery to be sure they are the same as those you had when you parked.
• Take Your Keys. Nearly 20 percent of all vehicles stolen have the keys in them.
• Park in well-lighted areas. Over half of all vehicle thefts occur at night.
• Completely close car windows when parking. Don't make it any easier for the thief to enter your vehicle.
• Don't leave valuables in plain view. Don't make your car a more desirable target and attract thieves by leaving valuables in plain sight.
• Never leave your car running, even if you will only be gone a minute. Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATMs, etc. Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up.
• Park with your wheels turned toward the curb. Make your car tough to tow away. Wheels should also be turned to the side in driveways and parking lots.
• If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway. Rear wheels lock on four-wheel drive vehicles, making them difficult to tow. Front-wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first.
• Always use your emergency brake when parking. In addition to ensuring safety, using the emergency brake makes your car harder to tow.
• Don't leave the registration or title in your car. A car thief will use these to sell your stolen car. File the title at your home or office, and carry registration in your purse or wallet.
• If you have a garage, use it. If you have a garage, take the time to use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.
• When parking in a garage, lock the garage door and your vehicle. By locking both the garage and vehicle doors, the chances of deterring a thief greatly improve.
• Disable your vehicle when leaving it unattended for an extended period of time. Remove the electronic ignition fuse, coil wire, rotor distributor, or otherwise disable your vehicle anytime thieves may have extended access to it.
• Engrave expensive accessories. Engrave personal ID numbers on car stereos, cellular phones, etc., so the thief will have difficulty disposing of them.
• Replace T-Shaped door locks with straight locks. Some vehicle doors have lock assemblies at window level that flare out in a knob or "T" shape. A thief can use various tools to gain access inside the vehicle, grab and pull the lock. Straight locks prevent this.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Stolen cars/parts are more easily traced when vehicle VIN numbers have been etched on car windows and major parts.

Practice these simple steps and get into the habit of doing them time and again, and you won’t have to worry as much in being a statistic of car theft.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

How Volkswagen and Porsche Share Common Ties

2009-06-15T18:13:00.001-04:00

While many of us know that the Volkswagen Beetle Car originated in Germany and was produced as the “people's car”, few know how its origins are tied in with Porsche. So what is the story, you ask?

It all started when Adolf Hitler had a vision of his countrymen being able to own a cheap car and that they would use these cars to travel on great networks of roads called autobahns. At the same time, a man named Ferdinand Porsche had just set up an automotive design company, which became known as the Porsche Büro. The company patented a sophisticated independent front suspension system, which consisted of transversely mounted torsion bars connected to two trailing arms on each side. At the time, this was lighter than most other common types of suspension. In 1931, a German motorcycle company, Zündapp, asked Porsche if he could design a suitable car for them, this was followed by the design of a streamlined two-door sedan, which had lines similar to the Beetle. It was designated the Type 12.

Hitler saw Porsche’s work and invited him to submit a design for this peoples car with requirements that it had to be cheap, economical, fast (all of 60 miles per hour) and to accommodate two adults and three children comfortably. So, in January 1934 Porsche gave Hitler a proposal for his car and by June that year work had begun.

While the idea of a people's car wasn't exactly a new one as before 1930 there were many attempts to design such a car, it wasn’t until Porsche that the concept was met. Creating such a car was much more than design and engineering, it also required finding a way to create the car in a way that an average worker only had to spend his yearly wage to buy it.

The production of the car went well until World War II when manufacturing had to have a military twist. Believe it or not Volkswagen came up with a military version of the Beetle and they were called the Kübelwagen and Schwimmwagen. Porsche also at this time produced several designs for heavy tanks but lost out to Henschel & Son in both contracts that ultimately led to the Tiger I and the Tiger II. However, not all this work was wasted, as the chassis Porsche designed for the Tiger I was used as the base for the Elefant tank destroyer. Porsche also developed the Maus super-heavy tank in the closing stages of the war, producing two prototypes.

By 1945 the Volkswagen factory fell to the British and Porsche lost his position as Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen. British Major Ivan Hirst was put in charge of the factory and Porsche was arrested for war crimes, but not tried. During his 20-month imprisonment, Ferdinand Porsche's son, Ferry Porsche, decided to build his own car because he could not find an existing one that he wanted to buy. He also had to steer the company through some of its most difficult days until his father's release in August 1947.

As time went by, both Volkswagen and Porsche car companies collaborated to make the VW-Porsche 914 and 914-6, whereby the 914-6 had a Porsche engine, and the 914 had a Volkswagen engine. In late 2005, Porsche took an 18.65% stake in the Volkswagen Group, further cementing their relationship, and preventing a takeover of Volkswagen, which was rumored at the time. Speculated suitors included DaimlerChrysler AG, BMW, and Renault.

On March 26, 2007, Porsche took its holding of Volkswagen shares to 30.9%, triggering a takeover bid under German law. On September 16, 2008, Porsche increased its shares by another 4.89%, in effect taking control of the company, with more than 35% of the voting rights. It again triggered a takeover bid, but this time over Audi.

While the history of a man named Porsche and a car called the Volkswagen have worked hand-in-hand, today each have their own unique meaning as well as their own unique looks.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Car Suspension and Its Value

2009-06-15T18:11:00.000-04:00

If you have ridden in an old horse-drawn wagon, you know how rough and bumpy of a ride it can be and maybe you have pity on the old pioneers and their mode of travel. Today, in our modes of travel, we have vehicles with what is called ‘suspension’.

Car suspension helps our travels become smooth and comfortable. Suspension also protects our vehicles from the jolts and bumps of the road. Without suspension, our cars might vibrate into pieces. Car suspension is usually comprised of two basic components. They are springs and shock absorbers. There are also a number of different types of suspension available for both front and rear axles. The main groupings are dependent and independent suspension types.

In order to understand the working of car suspension, you must understand the parts completely.

1. Suspension – Suspension on vehicles varies from front to rear, independent and dependent. Dependent systems – With these units, the front wheel's suspension systems are physically linked. There is only one type of dependent system and this is basically a solid bar under the front of the car, kept in place by leaf springs and shock absorbers. This type of suspension is still common on trucks and hasn’t been used on mainstream cars due to the shimmy it causes, the fact this kind of suspension weighs a long and because you can’t adjust the alignment of wheels. Front suspensions that are independent came into existence in 1930 and are sometimes called the MacPherson Strut. This is most commonly used in European vehicles. Other suspension units include: Double Wishbone Suspension Systems, Coil Spring; Multi-Link Suspension, Trailing-Arm Suspension, Twin I-Bean Suspension, Transverse Leaf-Spring, Solid-Axle Coil Spring, Beam Axle, 4-Bar, and the Rear Suspension Independent.

2. Springs - Springs are a major component of a car's suspension. Springs are available in three types: coil springs, leaf springs and torsion bars. The commonly known spring is coil spring. Almost all the heavy-duty vehicles had leaf spring since 1985. They appeared as metal layers, joined to axle.

3. Shock Absorbers - Along with springs, shock absorbers also play key role in the working of suspension. A shock absorber absorbs the shock. While driving car on a rough road, it dampens the induced vertical motion. The shock absorber has two major functions to accomplish. Firstly, it absorbs the shock caused by driving on a bumpy road by stopping the transmission of shock to the car chassis. Secondly, it manages the suspension in all road conditions. It makes the vehicle well planted on road. They are also known as dampeners or velocity-sensitive hydraulic damping devices. The working of the shock absorber is well conjunct with springs. The movement of the wheel is allowed by spring. Thus, lead to conversion of energy in road shock to kinetic energy of unsprung mass. Later, damper dissipates this energy. Damper performs dissipation by forcing gas or oil through a small hole or constricted valve.

Adjustable shock absorbers are also available in the market that allows modifications in the size of constriction. Smaller the size of constriction, stiffer will be the suspension. Nowadays, car manufactures are also offering different types of suspensions for both the front and rear axles. They are categorized as dependant and independent suspension types.

When you experience a wallowing motion on undulating road surface, it could mean that the suspension of the vehicle is going through excessive wear. This calls for immediate replacement, as it would not disable the car, but would lead to accident. Replacement of old worn out suspension with a new one will lead to enhanced handling, as it will minimize from end drive while braking. It also enhances safety and security of the vehicle by controlling body sway

4. Struts - A car's front suspension is also referred to as a struts which attaches directly into the front frame near the engine compartment. And a car's rear suspension system is also known as shocks, which ride independently.

Apart from your car's tires and seats, the suspension is the prime mechanism that separates your bum from the road. It also prevents your car from shaking itself to pieces.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Buying A Quality Used Vehicle

2009-06-15T18:10:00.000-04:00

In today’s economy, everybody wants to spend wisely and get the most for what they buy. Maybe this is why so many are turning toward purchasing used vehicles rather than new. If you have never purchased a used vehicle before, there are some easy tips to follow so that you can make a wise decision and can take home something of the best quality.

1. Matching Your Car To Your Lifestyle – Before you hit the sales lot in search of your perfect vehicle, make a list ahead of time sketching out your lifestyle and what type of vehicle would most fit it. Do you have children and car seats that need to be easily accessed? Are you adventurous and want something that can take you off road and through all sorts of conditions? What about color? If you live in a hot climate, black is probably out of the picture. What color appeals the most to you or is it important? What types of features do you really love in a car and can’t live without? Vehicles come with plenty of features such as: Cup holders, ashtrays, leg room, sunroof, sound, having everything automated, tires – figure out ahead of time what it is you absolutely love and what you can live without.

2. Are You Buying A Certified Car – If you are looking to buy a certified car, do your research ahead of time. If you see on a vehicle "certified used" or "certified pre-owned," it means that cars feature warranties that extend beyond the initial "when new" coverage. For a vehicle to qualify to be a “certified used" vehicle, the warranty must be backed by the original vehicle manufacturer. When the manufacturer backs the vehicle it is using its dealer network to inspect the car, determine if it is worth certifying and offer support for the vehicle for a period of time beyond the original warranty. Not all used cars can qualify for certified pre-owned programs, and terms vary from one brand to the next, but any true certified pre-owned program will include at least a 100-point inspection of the car. Make sure the manufacturer — and not just the local dealer — is offering the certification. That way you know the CPO car meets the manufacturer's stringent certified requirements, and you'll be able to have your vehicle serviced at locations nationwide.

3. Vehicle History – You have probably seen the commercials where the individual is selling their car that could have been ruined by a flood and yet rather than confess the damage, they comment that it has had miner water damage. To find out a vehicle’s true history, the best way is to use Carfax. To use carfax, you will need the vehicle’s identification number or VIN number. Carfax’ history dates back to 1986 when it worked closely with the Missouri Automobile Dealers Association, providing vehicle history reports to the dealer market. By the end of 1993, Carfax obtained title information from nearly all fifty states. With the largest automobile database, the company offered all consumers the same instant access to vehicle history reports that auto dealers, banks and other businesses were already subscribed to. Carfax can provide you with a ton of information on the vehicle you are looking at, letting you know whether it has been in a wreck or damaged then repaired, how many people have owned it, what types of major repairs it has had and more. While you never can be 100% sure about the accuracy of the Carfax information, it well may be worth $30 to find out what is listed. More information is always better when you are buying a car.

4. Check Your Credit Score – Before making a purchase, know how much you can afford. Check on your credit score or you can even call your bank and get preapproved for a loan. Knowing where you stand will give you a heads up on what kind of loan you can qualify for before you start shopping. Simultaneously, you will also want to weigh what kind of payment you can afford. Vehicle loans are typically for three to five years and interest rates vary according to your credit score. There are many online calculators to help you estimate what your payment might be based on estimated current vehicle interest rates and length of loan. Being prepared ahead of time with what you know you can afford will help you keep focused on what type of vehicles to look at and test drive. You certainly don’t want to get your heart set on something out of your budget and yet you want to buy something that fits your life style.

5. Do Some Price Comparisons – Before you even step foot on the car lot, do your homework on which car you might be leaning toward and what it will cost. This will give you a base idea of how to compare apples to apples. Good online sources for vehicle value are Kelley Blue Book Used Car Values or even local classifieds. Remember that these tools will give you only averages and will have to take into consideration the vehicle's condition, mileage, optional equipment and other factors.

Taking the time to do your homework will help you ensure that you are making the best decision when purchasing your next used vehicle.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Learning To Tow Safely

2008-10-06T17:54:00.001-04:00

Accidents happen more frequently with inexperienced drivers who are towing trailers than drivers not towing trailers. Why does this happen? The most common reason is due to the fact motorists are not required to obtain a special license or having training to tow. This fact combined with the fact that many people think they can drive the way they normally do with the trailer attached to the rear of their vehicle is certainly an accident waiting to happen.

If you are an experienced driver wanting to tow a trailer, here is some towing information that may help you.

1. Because trailer wheels are closer to the inside of a turn than the wheels of the tow vehicle, they are more likely to hit or ride up over curbs. Make sure to take turns wide at corners, curbs and curves.

2. Operate your vehicle at moderate speeds and avoid sudden starts, stops and turns to reduce trailer sway, allowing for adequate reaction time. The phenomenon commonly referred to as “trailer sway” occurs when a trailer being towed by a car, truck or van begins to sway or swing back and forth as it is being pulled. Severe instances of trailer sway can cause drivers to lose control. Cautious driving can help minimize trailer sway, and now new technology from truck and SUV manufacturers helps to virtually eliminate this occurrence.

3. When backing up to either a parking spot or to hitch a trailer use slight movements of the steering wheel to adjust direction. Exaggerated movements will cause excessive movement to the trailer. If you experience difficulty, pull forward and realign the tow vehicle and trailer or start again.

Automotive companies have developed some features such as a reverse camera system to help trailer, boat or RV towers get to their destination quickly.

4. Create a safety checklist before you begin any traveling with your RV, boat or trailer. Below are some pre-departure checklist items:

* Check and correct tire pressure on the tow vehicle and trailer, as low pressure hurts not only the drive of the vehicle but also the fuel economy.

* Make sure the wheel lug nuts/bolts on the tow vehicle and the trailer is tightened to the correct torque.

* Be sure the hitch, coupler, draw bar, and other equipment that connect the trailer and tow vehicle are properly secured and adjusted.

* Check that wiring is properly connected -- not touching the road, but loose enough to make turns without disconnecting or damaging the wires.

* Make sure all running lights, brake lights, turn signals and hazard lights are working.

* Verify that the brakes on the tow vehicle and trailer are operating correctly.

* Check that all items are securely fastened on and in the trailer.

* Be sure the trailer jack, tongue support and any attached stabilizers are raised and locked in place.

* Check load distribution to make sure the tow vehicle and trailer are properly balanced front to back and side to side.

* Check side- and rear-view mirrors to make sure you have good visibility.

* Check routes and restrictions on bridges and tunnels.

* Make sure you have wheel chocks and a jack stand.

5. Last, make sure your hitch matches your vehicle’s towing capacity. Below are the classifications.

CLASS I - LIGHT-DUTY

* 2,000-lb. maximum weight (trailer and cargo combined)

* Folding camping trailers and trailers for small boats, motorcycles and snowmobiles

* Conventional weight-carrying hitch

CLASS II - MEDIUM-DUTY

* 2,001-3,500-lb. gross trailer weight - Single-axle, small- to medium- length (up to 18 ft.) trailers

* Almost all trucks, SUVs and some mini-vans can be equipped to tow these trailers

* Conventional weight-distributing hitch not required unless specified for a particular vehicle

CLASS III - HEAVY-DUTY

* 3,501-5,000-lb. gross trailer weight - Dual-axle or large single-axle travel trailers

* Most properly equipped trucks and SUVs can tow them. Conventional weight-distributing hitch not required unless specified for a particular vehicle

CLASS IV - EXTRA-HEAVY-DUTY

* Over 5,000-lb. gross trailer weight o Largest travel and fifth-wheel trailers made for recreation

* Most trucks and SLWs can be equipped to handle trailers in this class

* Most applications require a conventional weight-distributing or fifth-wheel hitch

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com>

How to Find a Quality Mechanic

2008-10-06T17:52:00.000-04:00

When your car fails you by breaking down or not starting, the last thing you need is a bad mechanic working on it. So how do you make sure you find someone who has the right experience and is trustworthy enough to take your car to? Here are a few things to look for.

1. Is the garage and surrounding area neat? Some clutter and parts lying around is not a reason to find a different mechanic. Has the place been cleaned recently? Take a look at the cars that are in for service. If you see cars that are in good shape, then their owners take care of them, and therefore would choose a reputable mechanic.

2. Whoever takes down your information and talks to you about what you want done should be courteous and helpful. If you have a question, ask. Don't feel dumb if you think it's a stupid question, they have heard everything at least once before, and they won't laugh at you.

3. Ask for a few references. Call those references and ask them the following: Are you happy with the shop's service? Do you think they do good work for the money? Are they helpful if problems arise? How long does it take to get a service appointment?

4. Ask about the shop's policies regarding payment, hourly rates, storage charges and guarantees. This information should be properly displayed.

5. Make sure that the shop regularly services your make of vehicle. If they specialize in American cars, your European sports car will be better off somewhere else.

6. Does the shop proudly display the mechanics training certificates (ASE), Better Business Bureau membership certificate and AAA certification?

7. Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, AAA-Approved Auto Repair status, customer service awards.

8. Look for evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and ASE certifications — a national standard of technician competence.

9. Most importantly, keep records of all the service that is performed on your vehicle, and make sure that all services performed are itemized on those bills.

Once you find a mechanic, you may want to consider the following:

1. Repeat business will earn you perks, such as getting bumped to the front of the line when you need emergency service. If you find a good shop, reward them by referring them to your friends.
2. If you are unsatisfied with the service you receive, speak to the manager of the garage and try to come to a resolution. A reputable garage will try to fix the problem and keep you as a satisfied customer.

3. Keep good records; keep all paperwork. This is vital to assessing the car's value when trading it in or selling it privately.

4. Reward good service with repeat business. It is mutually beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish a relationship.

5. If the service was not all you expected, don't rush to another shop. Discuss the problem with the service manager or owner. Give the business a chance to resolve the problem. Reputable shops value customer feedback and will make a sincere effort to keep your business.

6. Treat your mechanic well. Send him something for the holidays. Some people get a box of doughnuts or cookies and leave them on the passenger seat of their cars for the mechanic and his crew.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com>

Keeping Your Car Up and Running

2008-09-10T19:03:00.001-04:00

You just bought your car and now you want to make it last as long and as effectively as possible. To do so, there are some things you can do to keep your car well maintained.

1. Watch Your Oil - For normal driving, many automakers recommend changing the engine oil and filter every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. This is sufficient for the majority of motorists. For “severe” driving--with frequent, very cold starts and short trips, dusty conditions, or trailer towing--the change interval should be shortened to every 3,000 miles or three months. (Check your owner’s manual for the specific intervals recommended for your vehicle.) Special engines such as diesels and turbocharged engines may need more-frequent oil changes.

2. Air Filters - Check the air filter. Remove the air-filter element and hold it up to a strong light. If you don’t see light, replace it. Regardless, follow the recommended service intervals.

3. Joint Boots - Check the constant-velocity-joint boots. On front-wheel-drive and some four-wheel-drive vehicles, examine these bellows like rubber boots, also known as CV boots, on the drive axles. Immediately replace any that are cut, cracked, or leaking. If dirt contaminates the CV joint it can quickly lead to an expensive fix.

4. Exhaust System - Inspect the exhaust system. If you’re willing to make under-car inspections, check for rusted-through exhaust parts that need replacing. Also tighten loose clamps. Do this while the car is up on ramps. If a shop changes your oil, have them make these checks. Listen for changes in the exhaust sound while driving. It’s usually advisable to replace the entire exhaust system all at once rather than to repair sections at different times.

5. Brakes - Look at the brakes. For most people it makes sense to have a shop check and service the brakes. If you handle your own brake work, remove all wheels and examine the brake system. Replace excessively worn pads or linings, and have badly scored rotors or drums machined or replaced. The brakes should be checked at least twice per year; more often if you drive a lot of miles.

6. Fluids - Check the fluids. On many newer cars, the automatic transmission is sealed. On cars where it is not sealed, check the transmission dipstick with the engine warmed up and running (see the owner’s manual for details). Also check the power-steering-pump dipstick (it’s usually attached to the fluid-reservoir cap) and the level in the brake-fluid reservoir. If the brake-fluid level is low, top it up and have the system checked for leaks.

7. Radiator - Clean the radiator. Prevent overheating by removing debris with a soft brush and washing the outside of the radiator with a detergent solution.

8. Battery - Check the battery. Check the battery’s terminals and cables to make sure they are securely attached, with no corrosion. If the battery has removable caps, check its fluid level every few months--especially in warmer climates.

9. Windshield Wipers -Check the condition of your blades, and replace them if split, perished or not wiping your windscreen properly. If you live in dry and hot climates, the wipers may need to be replaced yearly.

10. Tires - Incorrect tire pressure can reduce the life of your tires, and may make your car less safe to drive. Check and adjust pressure when tires are cold. You'll find your car's correct tire pressure on the tire placard on the inside of your glovebox, fuel cap filler, or inside the driver's door opening.

You should check for a minimum tread depth of 1.5 mm on any part of the tire surface that comes into contact with the road. Tires have indicators in their tread pattern, which show (as lines across the tread) when worn down to 1.6 mm.

Check your tires for abnormal wear or damage (such as cracks, bulges or tears). By routinely rotating tires you can eliminate this problem and extend the life of your tires by approximately 20 per cent.

In some cases this is not practical due to directional or different sized tires, which are only suitable to a particular side or particular position on a vehicle. Always refer to your owner's handbook and follow the instructions.

Longer term maintenance, that is things that need to be done every two to four years include:

1. Drain and flush the cooling system. Considering the hassle of collecting and safely disposing of old antifreeze, you may want to leave this to a shop.

2. Change the automatic-transmission fluid. Many models require that you replace the fluid and filter every 36,000 miles--sooner if the normally pink fluid takes on a brownish tint. With some cars the fluid and, if applicable, the filter can go 100,000 miles or more. With other late models, the transmission fluid never needs to be changed. Check your owner’s manual for this information.

3. Replace the drive belts and hoses. Do this every two to three years, even if they don’t show any wear. If a belt becomes noisy, have it adjusted. Look for any frayed, damaged, loose or disconnected wiring. If you find any, notify your mechanic. Check the top and bottom radiator hoses, heater hoses, fuel lines and any pipes associated with power steering or brakes.

Ask your mechanic to replace any hoses that are very soft, kinked, swollen or cracked.

4. Change the timing belt. If your vehicle has a belt instead of a chain, stick to the manufacturer’s recommended replacement interval--usually every 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Check the owner’s manual or consult a dealer. Failure to change the timing belt can result in a very expensive engine repair if the belt should break.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Diesel fuel made from algae?

2008-09-10T19:02:00.001-04:00

Fuel can and is being made from just about anything today. Algae is no exception.

Why are algae preferable over corn? Microalgae has a much faster growth-rate, for one. As part of the photosynthesis process, algae produce oil and can generate 15 times more oil per acre than other plants used for biofuels such as corn and switchgrass. Algae can also grow in salt water, freshwater or even contaminated water, at sea or in ponds, and on land not suitable for food production. This is good news in the sense that we don’t have to waste freshwater to create it.

On top of those advantages in using algae — at least in theory — is that it should grow even better when fed extra carbon dioxide (the main greenhouse gas) and organic material like sewage. If so, algae could produce biofuel while cleaning up other problems.

The difficulties in an efficient biodiesel production from algae lie in finding an algal strain with a high lipid content and fast growth rate that isn't too difficult to harvest, and a cost-effective cultivation system (i.e., type of photobioreactor) that is best suited to that strain.

Another obstacle preventing widespread mass production of algae for biofuel production has been the equipment and structures needed to begin growing algae in large quantities.

Open-pond systems for the most part have been given up for the cultivation of algae with high-oil content. In a closed system (not exposed to open air) there is not the problem of contamination by other organisms blown in by the air. The problem for a closed system is finding a cheap source of sterile carbon dioxide (CO2). Several experimenters have found the CO2 from a smokestack works well for growing algae.

So how will having alternative diesel fuel help our economy? In the United States, oil is primarily used for transportation - roughly two-thirds of all oil use, in fact. So, developing an alternative means of powering our cars, trucks, and buses would go a long way towards weaning us, and the world, off of oil. While the so-called "hydrogen economy" receives a lot of attention in the media, there are several very serious problems with using hydrogen as an automotive fuel. For automobiles, the best alternative at present is clearly biodiesel, a fuel that can be used in existing diesel engines with no changes, and is made from vegetable oils or animal fats rather than petroleum.

One of the biggest advantages of biodiesel compared to many other alternative transportation fuels is that it can be used in existing diesel engines without modification, and can be blended in at any ratio with petroleum diesel. This completely eliminates the "chicken-and-egg" dilemma that other alternatives have, such as hydrogen powered fuel cells.

With biodiesel, since the same engines can run on conventional petroleum diesel, manufacturers can comfortably produce diesel vehicles before biodiesel is available on a wide scale - as some manufacturers already are (the same can be said for flex-fuel vehicles capable of running on ethanol, gasoline, or any blend of the two). As biodiesel production continues to ramp up, it can go into the same fuel distribution infrastructure, just replacing petroleum diesel either wholly (as B100, or 100% biodiesel), or blended in with diesel. Not only does this eliminate the chicken-and-egg problem, making biodiesel a much more feasible alternative than hydrogen, but also eliminates the huge cost of revamping the nationwide fuel distribution infrastructure.

Currently most research into efficient algal-oil production is being done in the private sector, but predictions from small-scale production experiments bear out that using algae to produce biodiesel may be the only viable method by which to produce enough automotive fuel to replace current world diesel usage.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

To Tint Or Not To Tint

2008-08-07T17:29:00.001-04:00

You want to keep the interior of your car protected or maybe you want privacy, to keep the sun’s glare off of you – there are numerous reasons people opt to have their car windows tinted. The question is what is legal and what kind of tinting should you look for.

To start, many vehicles come with tint built in to the windows. Each state’s laws regarding tinting will be different and vehicles that are registered out of state are usually exempt from the laws of the state they are in while traveling. If you are thinking of getting tint added to your windows, your local body shop should know your state’s laws.

What is window tint? Tint is created when tinting film is bonded onto a piece of window glass. Tinting film is usually made out of clear polyester film with a very thin and even layer of tinting agents such as dyes and/or metals deposited onto the film.

Unlike sunglasses that do impair your ability to drive at night, tinting film is designed to reduce glare and not impede nighttime driving. Another misconception is that window tint is bonded onto the outer surface of auto glass. Window tint is applied on the inner surface, which also protects the film itself from flying debris outside the car.

Normal auto glass without tint reflects around 5% of visible light (known as VLR%), absorbs another 5% (known as VLA%), and transmits 90% of visible light (known as VLT%) into the car.

Depending on the type and quality of tinting film applied to a window, these percentages change dramatically. Some tint is more reflective, and others absorb more light. The number you will most commonly see is the VLT% (Visible Light Transmittance). Almost all the official names of films include the VLT% within it like Johnson Executive PBC30 or Madico Charcool CH-55. VLT% tells you how much visible light is allowed to shine into the car, and also indirectly how dark the tint looks.

Tinting film doesn't just block visible light. It also blocks harmful cancer-causing ultra-violet (UV-A and UV-B) rays as well as infra-red (IR) rays that cause heat to build up in your car; however, how effective a film is in blocking these rays depends on the type of film, the manufacturer, and the quality of installation.

Make sure the company you choose has numerous brands of tint to choose from and aren’t pushing one or two brands. You want choice that is based on your budget and needs along with the quality you are willing to pay for.

With a professional tint, the benefits are not only those mentioned above, but can also make your car appear sharper and classier.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the used cars for sale in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Preparing Your RV for Winter

2008-07-28T19:18:00.000-04:00

Owning an RV certainly comes with as many responsibilities if not more than in owning a vehicle. Failing to winterize an RV can cause unpleasant surprises come spring. If lines aren’t properly flushed and systems cleaned out, freezing temperatures can cause expansion and damages, leading to contamination and costly repairs.

To winterize your RV you can either do it your self or hire a certified RV technician.

For those do-it-yourself types, here are a few things you will need before getting started.

• Non-toxic RV antifreeze (The amount depends on the layout and length of your plumbing lines. Two to three gallons will normally do).
• A water heater by-pass kit, if not already installed.
• A wand to clean out holding tanks.
• A water pump converter kit, or tubing to connect to the inlet side of the water pump.
• Basic hand tools to remove drain plugs.

Now to go through the steps of preparing your RV for winter.
• If you have any inline water filters remove and bypass before starting.
• Drain the fresh water holding tank.
• Drain and flush the gray and black holding tanks. If your RV doesn’t have a built in tank flushing system clean the black tank out with a wand, or use a product like Flush King that allows you to clean both the black and gray tanks. Lubricate the termination valves with WD 40.
• Drain the water heater. Remove the drain plug and open the pressure relief valve. CAUTION (never drain the water heater when it is hot or under pressure)
• Open all hot and cold faucets; don’t forget the toilet valve and outside shower.
• Locate and open the low point drain lines. There will be one for the hot and cold water lines. Using the water pump will help force water out, but turn it off as soon as the system is drained.
• Recap all drains and close all faucets.
• By-pass the water heater. If you do not have a by-pass kit installed the water heater will fill up with antifreeze before it goes through the water lines, wasting six gallons of antifreeze.
• Install a water pump converter kit, or disconnect the inlet side of the water pump (the line coming from the fresh water holding tank). Connect a piece of clear tubing to the inlet side of the pump and put the other end into a one gallon container of non-toxic RV antifreeze.
• Turn the water pump on and pressurize the system. Starting with the closest faucet, slowly open the hot and then cold valves until antifreeze appears. Replace the antifreeze container as required.
• Repeat this process on all faucets from the closest to the farthest away. Don’t forget the outside shower, if equipped.
• Flush the toilet until antifreeze appears.
• Turn the water pump off and open a faucet to release the pressure. Go outside to the city water inlet. Remove the small screen over the inlet and push in on the valve with a small screwdriver until you see antifreeze. Replace the screen.
• Pour a cupful of antifreeze down each drain. Pour a couple of cups in the toilet and flush into the holding tank.
• If your water heater has an electric heating element make sure it is turned off. This will protect the element if the unit is plugged in while being stored.
• Make sure all the faucets are closed.
• Consult your owner manuals for winterizing icemakers and washing machines.

That's it you're done! That wasn't so bad was it? Now remove your batteries for winter storage!

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Insuring Your Classic Car

2008-07-21T15:30:00.001-04:00

If you have a classic car, street rod or any vehicle over fifteen years old that is worth more than it originally sold for when it was brand new, then you probably want to have it insured.

When shopping for car insurance, insuring your classic car is going to be a different ball game than insuring your regular driving around car. When you buy a classic car insurance policy, you are essentially purchasing protection for the value of the vehicle as a collectible.

The time you invest in choosing the right classic car insurance coverage is well worth the value and peace of mind that a quality collector's insurance policy delivers for owners of classic automobile.

To start, lets look at the stipulations or requirements normally encountered while shopping for collector car insurance or classic car insurance:

* A decent driving record.
* At least 10 years driving experience
* No teen drivers on the policy or drivers with poor driving records
* Secure and out of the weather garage
* Proof that you have another car for daily transportation
* Collector vehicle insurance is sometimes limited by the age of your car, and if your car is too young it may not qualify for a particular policy.
* Limited mileage. You probably don't want to drive your creampuff car all the time, and your insurance company doesn't want you to either. Mileage limits have increased recently, though, so if you can live with 250 miles a month you're probably okay.

Second, what is your policy worth? Here is how you look at insurance.

1) Actual cash value:

This is what you usually get with ordinary insurance, and is based on replacement cost minus depreciation.

2) Stated value:

The insurance company pays up to the stated value of the car, but may not guarantee the full stated value. And deductibles of up to $1,000 usually apply.

3) Agreed value:

In most jurisdictions, those who provide collector car insurance or classic car insurance are allowed to insure for a value that you and your insurer agree upon. And for most autos, there is no deductible. If your $100,000 vintage Rolls get trashed, you get a check for 100 grand, plain and simple - which is exactly why collectors use special classic car insurance coverage.

Last, after you have purchased your insurance, do a periodic review of your coverage limits, because classic car prices are rising. What you insured your cherry classic for ten years ago may be a fraction of what it's worth today. And if you are restoring a vehicle, ask your agent to give you appropriate insurance.

There is no need to pay extra based on mileage statistics, if your car is up on blocks with no engine inside it. And as the car's value increases thanks to your hard work of restoring it, you should raise the coverage to keep up with the added value of the restoration.

Keep all your receipts and paperwork - for everything from parts and labor to expenses incurred to take it to a classic car show - so that you can document the total investment your collector's car represents. And take photos and keep them updated, for the same reason.

Classic cars will always have a following but many standard insurance companies just do not understand the special requirements these vehicles have. That is why you need to make certain that the agency you choose specializes in the area of classic and vintage cars.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com>

Biofuels and What They Are

2008-06-27T21:17:00.001-04:00

You have heard the term biofuel but aren’t sure what it means. Biofuel is any fuel that is derived from biomass-recently living organisms or their metabolic by-products, such as manure from cows. It is considered ‘green’ because it comes from a renewable energy source, unlike other natural resources such as petroleum, coal and nuclear fuels.

Agricultural products specifically grown for use as biofuels include corn and soybeans (primarily in the United States) as well as flaxseed and rapeseed (primarily in Europe).

Waste from industry, agriculture, forestry and households can also be used to produce bioenergy and include straw, lumber, manure, sewage, garbage and food leftovers.

The production of biofuels to replace oil and natural gas is in active development, focusing on the use of cheap organic matter (usually cellulose, agricultural and sewage waste) in the efficient production of liquid and gas biofuels that yield high net energy gain.

There are various current issues with biofuel production and use, which are presently being discussed in the popular media and scientific journals. These include: the "food vs fuel" debate, carbon emissions levels, sustainable biofuel production, deforestation and soil erosion, impact on water resources, human rights issues, poverty reduction potential, biofuel prices, energy balance and efficiency, and centralised versus decentralised production models.

What material can be used to make biofuels? Conventional ethanol is made from sugar cane, corn, and sweet sorghum. Soybean and rapeseed oil are often used to make biodiesel, but coconut, palm, canola and jatropha nut oil are also being used throughout the world.

Trees, grass, agricultural residue, and municipal solid waste can also be converted into biofuels. Cellulose makes up the majority of a plant’s structure and can be broken down into sugars, which can then be fermented and made into ethanol. Recent research is making this process less expensive and more energy efficient.

As the world’s top producer, Brazil uses sugar cane to make ethanol. Many other developing countries, such as those of southern Africa, produce large amounts of sugar and also have potential to become ethanol producers. The Midwestern United States relies on corn to produce nearly one-quarter of the globe’s ethanol, and China is quickly emerging as the third largest ethanol supplier.

Other countries with limited fossil fuel resources are examining the prospect of producing domestic fuel supplies. Thailand has an aggressive policy to make use of tapioca and sugar cane for ethanol production. In response to the recent passage of the EU Biofuels Directive, member countries are ramping up biodiesel production. The Philippines recently mandated incorporation of coconut oil biodiesel into diesel fuel, the first time coconut oil has been used as a motor fuel.

Cars, trucks, and farm machinery can all run on low-volume biofuel blends without any alteration. Current car warranties cover operation with ethanol-blended gas of up to ten percent. Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) operate on any combination of ethanol and gasoline. FFVs are being sold in the U.S., Brazil, and China. As ethanol has a higher octane, it is used as a gasoline additive to improve vehicle performance. In fact, many international racing teams use ethanol because of its high performance qualities. Biodiesel blends of 20% show similar operation in conventional diesel engines as regular diesel fuel.

Are biofuels the answer for today’s energy crisis? It may be too soon to tell but it certainly has been an alternative source in the meantime.

About the Author: Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com>

Car Theft and Trying To Prevent It

2008-06-19T13:12:00.000-04:00

If you haven’t had your car stolen, you have been lucky so far. Auto theft is an estimated $7.5 billion business, according to the FBI. An auto theft occurred every 23 seconds in the United States with nearly 1.4 million vehicles stolen. Auto theft frequency varied according to region, with the Southern States losing 35%, the Western States 28%, the Midwestern States 20%, and the Northeastern States with a 17% auto theft rate. Vehicle thefts rates do not vary drastically from month-to-month, however, January and July seem to have slightly higher crime rates. The lowest percentage of auto thefts occurs in February and April, probably because of fewer days in the month.

Auto theft is largely a big-city crime. Obviously, population density makes a difference in the auto theft rate, but the urban reality is that more cars are parked on the street or in open parking lots than in secured personal garages. The sheer amount of cars in urban areas makes it very difficult for the police to identify a recently stolen car from among the thousands of similar looking vehicles in traffic. The police will admit to getting lucky sometimes by recovering a recently stolen car because of a tail-light being out or when the car thief commits a minor traffic violation like speeding or failing to stop at a stop sign.

An experienced car thief can steal your car in less than a minute. Many crude thieves simply smash the drivers’ window. Most cars are seemingly stolen for the value of their parts. According to insurance companies, a $20,000 stolen vehicle can be stripped and sold into $30,000 worth of parts inventory to unscrupulous scrap and auto-body shops. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cause economic hardship for victims and increase everyone's insurance premiums.

Here are some free things you can do to help prevent car theft:

* Take Your Keys. Nearly 20 percent of all vehicles stolen have the keys in them.
* Lock Your Car. Approximately 50 percent of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
* Never hide a second set of keys in your car. Extra keys can be easily found if a thief takes time to look.
* Park in well-lighted areas. Over half of all vehicle thefts occur at night.
* Park in attended lots. Auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking lots.
* If you park in an attended lot, leave only the ignition/door key. If your trunk and glovebox use the same key as the door, have one of them changed. Don't give the attendant easy access to your glovebox and trunk. Upon returning, check the tires, spare tire, and battery to be sure they are the same as those you had when you parked.
* Never leave your car running, even if you will only be gone a minute. Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATMs, etc. Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up.
* Completely close car windows when parking. Don't make it any easier for the thief to enter your vehicle.
* Don't leave valuables in plain view.. Don't make your car a more desirable target and attract thieves by leaving valuables in plain sight.
* Park with your wheels turned toward the curb.. Make your car tough to tow away. Wheels should also be turned to the side in driveways and parking lots.
* If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, back into your driveway. Rear wheels lock on four-wheel drive vehicles, making them difficult to tow. Front-wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first.
* Always use your emergency brake when parking. In addition to ensuring safety, using the emergency brake makes your car harder to tow.
* If you have a garage, use it.. If you have a garage, take the time to use it rather than parking outside where your vehicle is more vulnerable.
* When parking in a garage, lock the garage door and your vehicle. By locking both the garage and vehicle doors, the chances of deterring a thief greatly improve.
* Don't leave the registration or title in your car. A car thief will use these to sell your stolen car. File the title at your home or office, and carry registration in your purse or wallet.
* Disable your vehicle when leaving it unattended for an extended period of time. Remove the electronic ignition fuse, coil wire, rotor distributor, or otherwise disable your vehicle anytime thieves may have extended access to it.
* Replace T-Shaped door locks with straight locks. Some vehicle doors have lock assemblies at window level that flare out in a knob or "T" shape. A thief can use various tools to gain access inside the vehicle, grab and pull the lock. Straight locks prevent this.
* Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Stolen cars/parts are more easily traced when vehicle VIN numbers have been etched on car windows and major parts.
* Engrave expensive accessories. Engrave personal ID numbers on car stereos, cellular phones, etc., so the thief will have difficulty disposing of them.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the used cars for sale in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Keeping Your Teenage Driver Safe

2008-06-10T17:12:00.000-04:00

Your child has just become a teenager and is already behind the wheel. This can be the most frightening part of a parent’s life. According to data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, car crashes take more young lives than all other causes--and in larger proportion than for any other driving age group. And most of the fatal crashes and serious injuries come in the very earliest months of unsupervised driving. But you can help keep these statistics from affecting your child by simply offering them some basic driving rules.

1. Help your teens develop the right habits especially during the first six months of solo driving. Let them know right away these are the rules:

• Use of safety belts is mandatory.

• Teen passengers won't be allowed initially.

• Night driving will be limited.

• Don’t drive when you are drowsy.

• Distractions (e.g., text messaging) are prohibited.

• Speeding must be expressly prohibited. Since most new drivers don't have the experience to handle vehicles at high speeds, it's the source of many deaths and injuries.

• There will be no alcohol or drug use.

2. Set a good driving example in the way you drive:

• Wear your safety belt always.

• Don't speed.

• Practice defensive driving.

• Don't use your cell phone.

• Don't run red lights.

3. Develop a parent/teen driving contract. An example is available from the National Safety Council at www.nsc.org/issues/teendriving/ agreement.pdf. Many states also have sample agreements.

4. Plan to provide your teen with extra practice time in a variety of weather conditions so he or she can gain experience and confidence. If you live in a climate where the winters are challenging, make sure your teens vehicle is up to par. Here are some things you can do:

• Winter weather puts your vehicle's mechanical systems and performance to the ultimate test, and demands that your vehicle is in excellent condition. Make sure that your tires and all mechanical systems, including your brakes, are in top working order.

• Take your new driver to a vacant, snow or ice covered parking lot where you can safely practice slow-speed maneuvers.

• A novice driver's first on-the-road experience with winter-weather driving should not be during a major blizzard. Ensure he/she waits until conditions are less severe.

• If possible, have your teenager practice driving on slippery roads in daylight only. Exposure to slippery roads at night should be limited until beginners have gained more experience driving in various types of winter weather.

• Maintain a safe driving distance from the vehicle in front of you.

• Make sure the speed limit is observed and respected.

• Transform the trunk of your vehicle into a winter survival kit by filling it with essential emergency equipment including a flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, sand and a small shovel or ice scraper.

5. Reinforce state graduated licensing programs so teens must have a longer period of supervised driving and more restrictions in the early months.
This is a just a short list, but with your reinforcement, a little time spent with your teen driver might protect your child’s life and at the very least keep their insurance rates from going through the roof.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the used cars for sale in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Preparing Your Car For Summer

2008-06-02T13:34:00.000-04:00

Summer is nearly upon us. Just as we as humans need to adjust our wardrobes for summer, so it is that our car needs to have some minor adjustments. Depending on where you live, whether it is extremely warm climates such as Texas or moderate, will determine how much change your car needs. Here are some tips to start with:

1. Hoses and Belts should be inspected. Today, many cars are equipped with a serpentine belt that runs all of the accessories; so if that belt breaks, you can lose your power steering, water pump and charging system immediately. A good shop will check for any visible damage, abnormal wear or small hairline cracks. You should replace any belt that shows signs of wear. Even if a belt appears to be in good condition, it should be replaced every 50,000 miles as preventative maintenance. Like belts, radiator & heater hoses are also made of rubber. Having all hoses inspected periodically for wear, including hairline cracks and soft, bulging spots, might prevent an impending rupture from occurring.
2. Check your air conditioning system. One should have their A/C System checked before it gets hot! Because of the high usage during the hot summer months, this is the time it will be likely to fail. So, if you haven’t had it checked yet, do so now! An a/c service will test your vehicle’s system pressures, clean the condenser, visually and electronically inspect hoses, fittings and seals for leaks, check cooling fan operation, check output temperature, and adjust belt if needed. Freon will be added if needed.
3. Check your tires. An under-inflated tire not only reduces the life of your tire, but can cause your car’s gas mileage to plummet by as much as 15%! An inspection will also tell you how much tread life you have on your tire, as well as alert you to any uneven tire wear, which could indicate an alignment problem. An inspection can also alert you to any visible damage to your tires, which can worsen under intense heat.
4. Wiper blades and windshield wiper fluid should be checked. Any rubber on your vehicle can become brittle and crack, especially if you live in a very warm climate. Replace those worn out & cracked wiper blades before you need them. Make sure that the washer fluid is checked and replenished also.
5. Oil Checks are of course necessary. While this very well may be the least costly of all the routine maintenance services on your vehicle, its’ importance is critical. Most manufacturers require the oil to be changed every 3,000-5,000 miles. Because of the harsh desert heat conditions in Texas, we recommend every 3,000. Most good shops will perform a free bumper-to-bumper safety inspection on your vehicle while doing the Lube, Oil, & Filter Service. A safety inspection can consist of everything from checking your fluid levels, conditions of your belts & hoses, brakes, tires, battery & cables, shocks, wiper a washer operations, light operations, air cleaner, water pump, radiator, etc., etc.
6. Battery - Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
7. Prepare for Emergencies. Breaking down in the heat can be lethal. Carry some basic tools and if you live in a warm climate keep water with you. Also consider buying a first aid kit, flares, and flashlight.

A little prevention will carry you a long way through the summer months making your travels safe and enjoyable.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Large Truck Crashes and Aggressive Ticketing

2008-05-15T16:32:00.001-04:00

Large trucks account for a disproportionately large share of traffic deaths based on miles traveled. The fatal crash rate for large trucks is 50 percent greater than the rate for all vehicles on the roads.

Fatalities from large truck crashes have increased approximately 10 percent from 1995 through 1998, moving up from 4,918 deaths in 1995 to 5,374 deaths in 1998. Large trucks - including tractor-trailers, single-unit trucks and certain heavy cargo vans with gross weight more than 10,000 pounds - account for a disproportionately large share of traffic deaths based on miles traveled. The fatal crash rate for large trucks is 2.6 deaths per 100 million vehicle miles traveled more than 50 percent greater than the rate for all vehicles on the roads.

Surveys indicate that many highway motorists are intimidated by the mere size of a truck or bus. When you combine this perception with a highway crash and the resulting roadway congestion, the public image of the motor carrier industry takes a beating no matter who caused the crash. By driving safely to prevent crashes, you can improve that image and save time, money, and, most importantly, lives.

When driving on the highway, motorists are at a serious disadvantage if involved in a crash with a larger vehicle. In crashes involving large trucks, the occupants of a car, usually the driver, sustain 78 percent of reported fatalities. In order to keep you and your family safe when driving around large trucks and buses, you should be extra cautious. Sharing the road with larger vehicles can be dangerous if you are not aware of their limitations. Read the car driver safety tips to help you prevent an accident and minimize injuries and fatalities if one does occur.

To help reduce crashes and fatalities, Congress directed the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to work together to educate motorists on how to share the road safely with commercial motor vehicles (CMVs).

The result of this government collaboration was the development of the Ticketing Aggressive Cars and Trucks (TACT) program—a high-visibility traffic enforcement program that uses communication, enforcement, and evaluation activities to reduce CMV-related crashes, fatalities, and injuries.

In the fall of 2004, Washington was selected as the first pilot State for the TACT program. Based on the success of the Washington State TACT program and other traffic enforcement programs such as Click It or Ticket, FMCSA encourages additional States to undertake TACT programs on roadways with injuries and fatalities resulting from crashes between cars and trucks.
The TACT program combines outreach, education, and evaluation with targeted enforcement activities to raise awareness among car and truck drivers about safe driving behaviors. Unsafe driving behaviors may include, but are not limited to: unsafe lane changes, tailgating, failing to signal lane changes, failing to yield the right of way, speeding, and aggressive driving (a combination of two or more behaviors).

LARGE TRUCK CRASH FACTS

* 5,374 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks in 1998, representing thirteen percent of all traffic fatalities. Of these, 78 percent were occupants of another vehicle, 14 percent were large truck occupants and 8 percent were non-occupants. An additional 123,000 people were injured in those crashes. (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA)
* In 1997, large trucks made up three percent of all registered vehicles and seven percent of all vehicle miles traveled. Yet, large trucks constituted nine percent of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes, and four percent of all vehicles involved in injury and property-damage-only crashes that year. (NHTSA, 1999)
* In 1998, large trucks were more likely to be involved in a fatal multiple-vehicle crashes opposed to a single-vehicle crash than were passenger vehicles (84 percent of all large trucks in fatal crashes, compared with 62 percent of all passenger vehicles). (NHTSA, 1999)
* One out of eight traffic crash fatalities in 1998 was the result of a collision involving a large truck. (NHTSA, 1999)
* Most of the fatal crashes involving large trucks occur in rural areas (67 percent), during the day (68 percent) and on weekdays (80 percent). (NHTSA, 1999)
* A loaded tractor-trailer requires 20-40 percent further stopping distance than a car. With an empty trailer, the discrepancy between the truck and the car is even greater. (NHTSA, 1999)
* Of the trucks with out-of-service violations, more than one-third of them have problems with brakes. (Federal Highway Administration, 1998)
* All new tractors and trailers are required to have anti-lock brakes. Anti-lock braking systems are effective in preventing wheel lock and loss of steering in emergency stopping, especially on wet roads.
* Federal regulations allow drivers of large trucks to drive up to 16 hours a day. However, drivers under the regulations can compile 60 hours in less than five days by alternating ten hours of maximum permitted continuous driving with the minimum eight hours off duty. Surveys reveal that many drivers of large trucks violate the regulations on hours of service. Studies also show that driver fatigue plays a role in large truck crashes and that drivers are more likely to crash after many long hours of driving. (IIHS) The Department of Transportation is currently considering a revision of these hours-of-service rules.
* Almost 30 percent of large truck drivers involved in fatal crashes in 1998 had at least one prior conviction for speeding, compared to slightly less than 20 percent of the passenger vehicle drivers in fatal crashes. (NHTSA, 1999)

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the used cars for sale in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Preparing for your Road Trip

2008-05-06T18:01:00.001-04:00

It is that time of year for a road trip. Whether it is you and your friends or the whole family, there are some things to consider before driving off into the sunset. With a little time and pre-road trip preparation, you can save yourself some potential problems and big bucks.

To start, take your car in for some all-over maintenance. Things to have checked include:

1. Wiper Blades - Inspect the condition of the blade material (it should be soft and pliable) for cracks or separation from the blade retainer.

2. Lights - Check the turn signals, headlights and brake lights, making sure they operate properly. It is a good idea to have the headlights checked for proper alignment in order to have optimum lighting and to prevent the “blinding” of oncoming drivers.

3. Tires - Check tires for excessive or uneven wear and tire pressure. It’s important to check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. The recommended tire pressure provided by the vehicle and tire manufacturers are designed to compensate for the increase in tire pressure caused by the rise in temperature of the tire when it is rolling down the highway.

4. Fluid Levels - Lift the hood and check the engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, radiator coolant, and windshield washer fluid levels. Top off if necessary.

5. Belts & Hoses - Check hoses for proper fit, leaks, brittleness, loose clamps, and softness in the elbow areas. As for the belts, check for alignment, glazing, adjustment, and tearing and cracking. Replace if necessary.

6. Air Conditioning - Test the A/C system to see that it is working and cooling the vehicle down in a reasonable time. Also, inspect the refrigerant lines for evidence of leaks. Remember, on most late-model vehicles, the defroster system utilizes the air conditioning for more efficient defrosting and defogging.

7. Battery Connections - Check / clean battery posts and cable terminals for corrosive buildup. White fuzz that surrounds the cable terminal ends at the battery posts can easily identify a corrosive condition. Cleaning or removal of the white fuzz requires the removal of the cable terminals after washing them down with a baking soda and water solution. The best cleaning results can then be achieved by using a battery post and cable terminal-cleaning tool. Performing this small maintenance activity will ensure optimum performance from the vehicle’s electrical system.

8. Fluid Leaks - Examine the ground where you park your vehicle for leaks. Any fluid residue found should be examined for the type of fluid (gas, engine or transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, radiator coolant, windshield washer fluid), and the leak repaired immediately to avoid any problems.

9. Exhaust Leaks - Listen / look for leaks from the exhaust system, and if something seems marginal, have the system checked by a professional mechanic / muffler shop prior to leaving for your trip. The life you save may be your own, as the gases escaping from the system are very deadly.

10. Brakes - Test-drive the vehicle for brake response and feel. Listen for noises (high-pitched squeal, grinding or clunking). Look for fluid leaks from flexible brake hoses and steel brake lines. If you feel your mechanical expertise is limited in this area, I would recommend you have a professional look at your brakes to advise you on the condition of the brake friction material, drums, rotors, and the hydraulic system. It is important that the vehicle always be prepared to stop regardless of the driving conditions.

Once your car is in top shape, make sure you have a basic emergency kit on board. The kit’s contents could be dependent on where you are going. If you are heading off to the desert in the summer you will want extra water. Going north where there is snow, take blankets and snow chains. But when it comes to the basics, your emergency kit should include:

1. Assortment of Combination Wrenches, Screwdrivers, and Pliers
2. Flashlight / Spare Batteries for Flashlight
3. Roadside Flares / Battery Operated Roadside Marker Lights (If you don’t like playing with fire)
4. First Aid Kit
5. Battery Jumper Cables
6. Blanket, Food, and Something to Drink (In case you’re stuck for awhile)
7. Cell phone charger

Last, once everything is in order, the most important thing to prepare for on your road-trip is the right music. Maybe it won’t keep you safe, but it sure will make everything much more enjoyable.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

The Downside of Leasing Used Cars

2008-04-29T12:36:00.001-04:00

You are ready to buy your used car but you can’t decide whether to lease or buy. Before getting talked into a lease, consider the problems one can incur as opposed to buying.

The first consideration is that when you lease a car, you will always have a car payment. As long as you lease your car, you never really own it.

The second is the mileage restrictions of leasing. Most leases restrict your mileage usage to 15,000 miles per year (sometimes even lower at 12,000 per year. If you go over your allotted miles, you pay extra: the going rate is about 15 cents for every mile over your limit, and 20-25 cents for luxury cars. So, if you go over, say, 4,000 miles on your luxury sedan, you can expect to pay about $800 at the end of the lease. Think about how those cell phone minutes add up once you go over your plan and it is much the same.

Third, insurers usually require higher coverage costs for leased vehicles.

Fourth is trying to evaluate what the car will be worth when it’s over a few years old. If you choose a vehicle that is five-years-old, there is a great deal of variation in the five-year-old market. This information is important as your monthly payments hinge on its supposed retained value. If the dealer sets it too low, your payments will be higher than they need to be. If the dealer sets it too high, it gives the dealer latitude to push up the car’s initial price while offering what seem to be acceptable monthly payments.

The fact is that instead of the owner/dealer paying for the most expensive years of a vehicle's life, you will be. The amount for which you lease is the difference between the purchase price and the salvage, or residual, value, which is the predetermined value of the car at the end of the lease period. The amount of the salvage value that the dealer includes in your contract directly impacts your monthly payment.

Lease payments are made up of two parts: a depreciation charge and a finance charge. The depreciation part of each monthly payment compensates the leasing company for the portion of the vehicle's value that is lost during your lease. The finance part is interest on the money the lease company has tied up in the car while you're driving it. In effect, you are borrowing the money that the lease company used to buy the car from the dealer. You repay part of that money in monthly payments, and repay the remainder when you either buy or return the vehicle at lease-end.

So what are the benefits of buying your used car? By far the greatest benefit of buying a car is that you may actually own it one day. Implied in this benefit is that you’ll become free of car payments. The car is yours to sell at any time and you are not locked into any type of fixed ownership period. If you plan to own your car for at least three years, buying will undoubtedly be the much more cost effective way to go.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Taking A Look At Tires

2008-04-24T17:47:00.001-04:00

Tires are more than those things that go round-n-round beneath your car. A good set of tires can provide better safety to you and your passengers improve your vehicle’s performance and even improve the look of your car.

Let’s start with safety. We know a good set of tires can prevent an accident. Different kinds of vehicle require different kinds of tires so do some research on your car type when buying tires. Do not trust the previous owner to have done this homework if you are buying a used car.

Tires vary in quality and type depending on your needs. Take into consideration your budget, how long you want the tires to last and most importantly the conditions under which your tires will be exposed. Extreme heat, frequent rain or snow, or heavy winter weather are all important and unique considerations.

As for safety, many car accidents originate with the car’s tires. To add insult to injury, most car insurance companies will refuse payment of accident damage to their clients if they can prove old, faulty car tires had been the cause. If your tires are old and beat up, consider making an investment now rather than later.

When it comes to appearances, there is nothing easier in improving the look of your car than getting a new set of tires. Just by switching over to some new rims or tires, you will be giving your car the equivalent of a facelift.

When you are going to pick out your new rims and tires, you will first have to answer some simple questions. Do you want to upgrade to a new set of wheels that has the same diameter and width of your old tires? Or, do you want to get something bigger? If you opt for wider wheels, your car will have that much more contact with the ground surface, which will give you a better rate of acceleration and a tighter grip during turns, as well as giving you more stopping power.

If you go with taller rims, you will draw more attention to your wheels. This gives your ride a striking, powerful feel that demands looks from those you drive by. Don't worry, necessarily, about fitting taller tires onto your car. There are specially designed low-profile tires that maintain the same tire diameter as the tires that came with your car. Getting taller rims with low-profile tires is called plus-sizing your car. The benefits of this are that, instead of recalibrating your speedometer as you would if you changed your wheel diameter, your car will be ready to drive immediately after your new tires are installed

It is most likely can’t go wrong in choosing the right tires for your vehicle, so spend some time and make the investment – you will find that you’ll add value and life to your vehicle and yourself.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Car Emergency Kits

2008-04-03T18:02:00.001-04:00

Many of us never think about keeping certain ‘emergency’ items in our car until it’s too late. But by just compiling a handful of items, many which may be laying around your house, keeping these items in your trunk or behind the seat, could help you or another drive at some point in your life.

What should you have in your emergency kit? The sky is the limit here. According to the FAA, not sure why they are concerned with cars, they suggest the following:

* Battery powered radio and extra batteries
* Flashlight and extra batteries
* Blanket
* Booster cables
* Fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type)
* First aid kit and manual
* Bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods, such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter.
* Maps
* Shovel
* Tire repair kit and pump
* Flares

Click and Clack, the famous auto gurus have similar suggestions. Here is their list along with some of their comments:

1. Heavy-Duty Jumper Cables

This is one area on which not to skimp. Why? Because a lot of jumper cables on the market today simply aren't up to snuff. In fact, in our humble opinion, most jumper cables stink. They're either too short, too thin or won't stay flexible in the cold — which is when you really need them.

When you're shopping for cables, we'd recommend that you buy ones that are at least 20 feet long, which gives you plenty of length with which to work. They should be at least four-gauge, and thicker if possible. And, finally, they should be made of copper, so there's less resistance.

2. Tire pressure is very important — it affects everything from handling to braking to gas mileage to tire wear. We recommend that you never use one of those cheap, pencil-type tire gauges. They're notoriously inaccurate. And don't trust the gauge on the air hose at Phil's Quikie Gas either. Gauges at gas stations are often completely out of whack as well.

Tip: Don't check tire pressure after you've been driving. The friction of the tires on the road creates heat and will give you the wrong reading. Check the tire pressure *before* you start driving. What is the "correct" tire pressure? It's different for all vehicles. Look in your owner's manual, which will usually refer you to a label on the doorpost.

3. Breaking down on the side of the road is bad enough without a bread truck plowing into you. We recommend you have a sturdy, heavy triangular folding reflector on hand.

Tip: The best ones have a base that's loaded with sand so it won't blow over when that semi comes barreling down the road.

4. Someday, somewhere, you'll be really glad you have a can of Fix-a-Flat in your car.

If you do get a flat, you'll want to use Fix-a-Flat as soon as possible, before all the air escapes from the tire. Otherwise, the tire may separate from the wheel, and then it won't work.

5. A safe container for carrying gas.

Tip: No matter how desperate you are, you should never, ever carry gas in milk jugs or anything else that's not designed for carrying fuel.

6. Vise-Grip Straight-Jaw Locking Pliers

Vise Grips are the emergency alternative to carrying around a full set of English and metric sockets. In our opinion, a pair of Vise Grips is the most versatile tool you can have in your car. Get the original ones, too--not cheap knockoffs from Outer Mongolia.

There are all sorts of uses for vise-grips, including removing stubborn nuts and bolts, and tightening battery connections. There are more creative uses for vise-grips, too. For example, if you have a leaking coolant hose, clamp the vise-grips onto the hose and temporarily stop the leak. If your alternator bracket breaks, you can hold it in place with vise-grips.

7. 20 feet of 18-gauge galvanized wire.

Tip: Mechanic's wire is great for reattaching loose mufflers and exhaust parts, wiring trunks shut — or securing anything else that's falling off.

8. Duct Tape

Duct tape is great for temporarily fixing hose leaks, fixing busted side mirrors and hiding rust holes before your annual inspection. Duct tape is very easy to tear in both directions. You can make a piece of duct tape fit just about anything.

9. Four-in-One Screwdriver

We especially like this tool because it's four screwdrivers in one--two straight blades and two sizes of Phillips ends, which sure beats carrying around a box of various sized screwdrivers. Look for one that's not a piece of junk, and feels sturdy and durable.

10. Flashlight/Lantern

Look for a flashlight that's durable and dual-purpose, which doubles as a lantern or beacon. An alternative that we like is the Mag-lite brand flashlight. They're indestructible, but pretty costly. And, like any flashlight, after months of sitting in the back of your car, the batteries are often corroded. For a neat alternative, see the generator light below.

Tip: Store the batteries outside the flashlight, in a Zip-loc, if you want to make sure the flashlight doesn't accidentally turn on and drain the batteries. And have extra batteries on hand — who knows how long you'll need that light when the time comes.

11. Mylar Space Blanket

Will our Mylar space blanket save you at 40 below in blizzard-force winds? Of course not! A good space blanket, however, will reflect back a lot of your heat--they're used by rescuers of all sorts. Having one in your car might just help keep you keep cozy when you're broken down next January in East Moosejaw.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the used cars for sale in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Weighing Car Insurance Needs

2008-03-25T17:10:00.000-04:00

We are all insuranced to death it seems. Car insurance is no exception. In some states it is even mandatory. If you're like many people, your first priority is to get the bare minimum requirements.

Where most states require car insurance, the minimum they ask for is that you have liability insurance, but it varies from state to state. This covers you when you're at fault in an accident.

Comprehensive and collision coverage are required on most lease contracts, and are essential if you own an expensive car. If you're driving an old vehicle, on the other hand, and the cost of the sum of your premium and your deductible nearly or in fact exceed the worth of your vehicle, you might want to consider doing without this coverage.

Before you purchase any type of auto insurance coverage, be sure to study your other insurance policies so you don't end up paying for something you don't need.

So what does all of this insurance lingo mean. Here are some descriptions:

1. Bodily Injury Liability. This coverage, which is required in most states, compensates the driver of the other car and its passengers in the event you get into an accident. It also covers the passengers in your car. The main consideration here is protecting your assets against lawsuits that arise from auto accidents.
Bodily injury liability is sold in standard increments that designate both how much coverage you have per person in an accident, with an additional limit per accident. For example, if you buy bodily injury worth $100,000/$300,000, each of the people you injured could be compensated $100,000, but only up to $300,000 per accident.

2. Property Damage Liability. This coverage will pay for the repair and replacement of the other guy's car or property in the event of an accident. State-required minimums are as low as $5,000, but if you total somebody's Lexus, that won't begin to cover the damage.

You're better off with a minimum of $50,000 for each vehicle you own. And to be truly safe, you should have a total of $100,000 coverage.

3. Personal Injury Protection. This is definitely one coverage you can skimp on. PIP coverage pays for the medical and funeral costs associated with an accident for you and your family — regardless of whose fault it was. But if you already have separate health, life and disability policies, you can probably forgo this one altogether. Check those policies first, but chances are those sort of expenses are already covered.

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist. This coverage pays for medical and funeral costs for you and your family in the event you get in an accident with either a hit-and-run driver or a driver who doesn't have enough auto insurance. These policies usually cover bike and pedestrian accidents, too. Given the prevalence of uninsured drivers nationally, this coverage is essential. On average, it costs less than $40 a year for $100,000 worth and will make up for anything your medical insurance doesn't cover.

5. Collision and Comprehensive. Collision reimburses you for the full cost of repairs or replacement of your car after an accident. Comprehensive covers you in the event your car falls victim to a natural disaster, vandalism or theft. With either coverage, the lower the deductible you choose, the more the policy will cost you. The purpose of insurance is to protect you against big losses, not to make you whole to the last dollar. If you have an older car, you might drop this coverage altogether.

Collision and comprehensive — which can account for 30% to 40% of your total premium — are cash-value coverages. That means if your car is damaged, the most you'll recoup is the Kelley Blue Book value, which declines precipitously as your car ages. Here's a good rule of thumb: If the cost of your collision and comprehensive is more than 10% of your car's Blue Book value, it probably makes sense to drop these coverages and save a tidy sum. With most cars, you should approach this limit as the car turns five years old. Understand, however, that if you eliminate the coverage, you'll have to foot the repair bill if you get in an accident that's your fault, or if the car is totaled or stolen.

6. Extras. While insurance companies will try their hardest to sell you any number of extras to go along with the essentials, most of them aren't worth it. Consider rental-car reimbursement, which pays a paltry $15 or so a day while your car is in the repair shop after a collision. Not only is the reimbursement small, the odds you'll need it are remote. The chances are at least even that the other guy will be at fault, and his insurance will pay the full cost of this. Another dubious extra is towing coverage. It costs $25 or more per year on a policy, money you'd be better off putting toward an auto-club membership that would be exponentially more useful. One extra that is worthwhile: Full glass coverage. Auto glass is expensive and an errant stone can ruin a $500 windshield in the blink of an eye.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Improving your vehicle’s value

2008-03-12T19:09:00.000-05:00

It’s time to buy a new car and you are ready to sell your old one or trade it in. To get the most value for your car, here are a few things to consider – some you can do now, others you can consider as you make your next purchase:

1. Consider Resale Value When Buying. Buy a car that will hold its value. Resale value is based on many factors, including desirability and reliability. Some makes, such as Toyota, Honda, Mercedes and Lexus, always hold their value well. Use a good used car-pricing site such Kelley Blue Book, to research the resale history of models in which you are interested. Some options, such as air conditioning or a sunroof, will improve your car's resale value; consider buying them even if they aren't on your personal must-have list.

2. Maintain and Retain. Follow the maintenance schedule recommended by your owner’s manual. Keep receipts for all maintenance and repair work, no matter how minor. A stack of receipts underscores the fact that your car has been well taken care of. Savvy used car buyers will be willing to pay extra for a car with a fully documented service history. Also, fix everything in your car as soon as it breaks. If you're going to keep your car as long as possible, you have to want to keep it as long as possible. Don't ignore seemingly unimportant problems like broken trim bits, torn upholstery, or electrical glitches. Little annoyances tend to add up and can begin to erode your love affair with your old car. When making repairs, ask for quality parts. Discuss your options with your mechanic or parts store clerk.

3. Don’t Damage the Goods. If your car has been in a collision, any kind of damage can affect your car’s resale value. If your car was is in a major collision, it could get reported to Carfax. In any event, if your car is damaged, use an experienced repair shop with a good reputation and insist on using factory (also known as OEM, for Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Save all receipts and be up front and honest about any collision repair work when it comes time to sell or trade. Being evasive about collision repair may lead the buyer to believe that the damage was more extensive than you are letting on.

4. Don’t customize. Spending money on your car can actually decrease its value. If you do have your car customized, stick to non-intrusive upgrades such as new wheels or an upgraded stereo that won't require extensive re-wiring or cutting up the dashboard. Before all of this, your first priority should be to fix anything that’s broken or damaged for example dints in the bodywork or broken stereo equipment.

5. Keep it clean. The better your car appears to be kept up, the more it will be worth, and most people associate cleanliness with care. Washing and waxing your car on a regular basis is a much easier way to keep it looking good than paying for an expensive detail job when the time comes to sell. You can also have your car detailed; something most car dealerships do before reselling used cars, which gives the car a new car look and smell. Detailing is an investment well worth the cost.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

How To Get the Best Gas Mileage

2008-03-05T19:45:00.000-05:00

Saving gas and making every little bit count, can add up when it comes to your fuel costs. Few people know there are a handful of things one can do to save gas, short of buying a hybrid. So here are some suggestions:

1. Weight is fuel economy's natural enemy, so removing unnecessary items — or people — from your car can translate to real fuel savings.

2. You can save fuel immediately in whatever you drive by going easy on the accelerator. Jackrabbit starts and full-throttle acceleration boost fuel consumption dramatically. It's all a matter of degree: Light acceleration saves more than moderate acceleration.

3. Top speed also plays a part. Most vehicles are most efficient when cruising in their top gear at a relatively low speed. For example, a car with a five-speed transmission would be most efficient in 5th gear at 40 to 55 mph. Wind resistance increases exponentially with speed, so as your pace increases from this point, fuel economy drops dramatically. Onboard trip computers that show instantaneous and average fuel economy are remarkably accurate. Keep an eye on this and you'll learn how to drive in a miserly fashion.

4. Keeping your tires inflated properly and your engine running right is critical to efficient motoring. Under-inflated tires can cause fuel consumption to increase by as much as 6%. (Get the proper inflation pressure from the sticker on your car's doorjamb or the owner's manual, and not the tire's sidewall.) Even if your car seems to be running well, that perplexing Check Engine light could represent a dead oxygen sensor or some other emissions control problem that causes the vehicle to waste several miles per gallon.

5. Run the air conditioner only when needed. Unlike a car's heater, which uses free engine heat to warm the cabin, the air conditioner robs engine power and lowers fuel economy. If your car has been sitting in the sun and is hotter than the outside air, drive for a few minutes with the windows open to cool it off. Then, if you're hitting the highway, close 'em up and turn on the A/C. Aerodynamics are more important at high speeds, so if you're not exceeding 35 or 40 mph, open windows won't make as much difference. It also depends on the vehicle.

6. Roof-top carriers, bike and ski racks don't do you any favors — even when they're empty. If you keep all your cargo inside the car, you'll slip through the wind better. Also, strip off any aftermarket add-ons such as bug deflectors and window and sunroof wind deflectors. By design, these items work by wrecking your aerodynamics. Sure, bug entrails on your windshield are gross, but they aren't known to cost you any fuel.

7. Lower octane costs less, but should you use it? Most modern cars that call for premium fuel can run on regular gasoline without knocking or any long-term penalty. Technically, this makes the car less efficient, but not to a degree that negates the cost savings from the cheaper fuel grade. This is true of cars for which premium is recommended and not required. If in doubt, look for terms such as "for best performance" and "recommended" as opposed to "only" or "required." If your car has a turbocharger or supercharger, you probably should stick with premium fuel. Of course, if your car calls for regular gasoline, there's no reason to run it on anything higher in octane.

8. Avoid idling your vehicle, in both summer and winter. Idling wastes fuel, gets you nowhere and produces unnecessary greenhouse gases. If you're going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, except in traffic, turn off the engine. In winter, don't idle a cold engine for more than 30 seconds before driving away. (Older vehicles, however, may need more idling time when first started. In cold, winter conditions all vehicles may need more idling time to warm up and ensure the windshield is fully defogged. Be sure your vehicle is warmed enough to prevent stalling when you pull out.)

9. Select the right gear. Change up through the gears and into top gear as soon as possible without accelerating harder than necessary. Driving in a gear lower than you need wastes fuel; so does letting the engine labor in top gear on hills and corners. Automatic transmissions will shift up more quickly and smoothly if you ease back slightly on the accelerator once the car gathers momentum.

10. Use the cruise control. On long stretches of highway driving, cruise control can save fuel by helping your car maintain a steady speed.

11. Service your vehicle regularly, according to the manufacturer's instructions. A poorly tuned engine can use up to 50% more fuel and produces up to 50% more emissions than one that is running properly. Dirty air filters can also cause your engine to run at less than peak efficiency Regular visual checks of the air filter will tell you if it needs replacing and your owner's manual will also recommend appropriate replacement intervals. Clogged filters can cause up to a 10% increase in fuel consumption. Using the correct viscosity oil is important because higher viscosity oils have greater resistance to the moving parts of the engine, and therefore use more gas. Clean oil also contributes to better gas mileage. It is usually recommended that engine oil be changed every three to five thousand miles.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Hybrid Cars And Their Wide Appeal

2008-02-29T13:18:00.000-05:00

You have heard about them, possibly have seen their commercials but do you really understand how the hybrid car works and what its value is?

Hybrid cars are becoming more and more popular to a variety of people for a variety of reasons. The ecologically conscious can appreciate the ultra low emissions and amazing fuel economy, while the economically conscious can appreciate the low depreciation and great savings at the pump.

Here are some quick facts about the Hybrid Car:

• Lower fuel emissions help to curb the infamous "Greenhouse Effect."
• Hybrid cars are in high demand, and because of this, they hold their value much better than most gasoline automobiles.
• Burning fossil fuel releases potentially harmful pollutants, but reducing the amount of fuel that needs to be burned may allow the environment to dispose of these pollutants by natural means.
• Hybrid cars offer huge savings at the pump. Switching from the average sedan to the average hybrid could save the driver over 500 dollars a year!
• Hybrid car technology has been accepted as a solution for the automobile pollution problems of the day.
• The United States government has supported hybrid car ownership by allowing a tax write off. In 2005, this rebate may be as high as $5000!
• While it is true that hybrid cars do have expensive parts, they also have warranties that provide free replacement of the most expensive parts for many years.
• Though hybrid cars have not been on the US market for very long, they have been sold in Japan since 1997. Some consumers worry that hybrid cars may not last as long as other cars, but it is not abnormal for a hybrid car to run like new when it has 250,000 miles on it. The best part - hybrid cars don't require any more maintenance than gasoline cars.
• Hybrid cars aren't a fad. Nearly every major automobile manufacturer has announced either the launch of a hybrid car or plans for a launch. A large part of this is due to the CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) regulation, by which an automaker must maintain a minimum mileage of 27.5mpg across its product line. By investing in hybrid technology, they can offer faster, larger engines in the rest of their line.

How does the hybrid car work? A hybrid car is a passenger vehicle that is driven by a hybrid engine, which is any engine that combines two or more sources of power, generally gasoline and electricity. There are two types of gasoline-electric hybrid cars; the parallel hybrid, and the series hybrid. Both use gasoline-electric hybrid technology, but in radically different ways.

In a parallel hybrid car, a gasoline engine and an electric motor work together to move the car forward, while in a series hybrid, the gasoline engine either directly powers an electric motor that powers the vehicle, or charges batteries that will power the motor. Both types of hybrids also use a process called regenerative braking to store the kinetic energy generated by brake use in the batteries, which will in turn power the electric motor.

Both parallel and series hybrids have small gasoline engines, and produce much less pollution than standard gasoline cars, but also produce much less power - hybrids generally produce between 60-90 horsepower, while the average gasoline engine probably produces about double that. To overcome this power gap, hybrid cars are constructed with ultra lightweight materials like carbon fiber or aluminum. Hybrid cars are also designed to be more aerodynamic than most cars, allowing them to "slice" through air instead of pushing it out of the way.

All these factors combined equate to a super efficient form of car that gets excellent fuel economy and helps the environment by cutting down on pollution. What are you waiting for?

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Reasons to Consider Small SUVs

2008-02-11T20:14:00.000-05:00

The price of fuel today has many looking at downsizing their vehicle’s size. Although one may downsize, they still may not want to give up the ability to drive off road and through adverse weather conditions. This is where the compact SUV becomes attractive.

When compared to larger SUVs the smaller SUV typically uses less fuel. Buying a vehicle with a 4-cylinder engine will generally provide higher gasoline mileage per gallon than do bigger SUVs with larger engines. Some smaller SUV’s, typically hybrids, have a rating of 36 miles per gallon in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway for a two-wheel-drive model. Yes, the supplemental electric power helps boost city mileage more than highway mileage.

The second benefit of having a smaller SUV is that these vehicles are priced affordably compared to larger SUVs.

Smaller SUVs often have more nimble handling than do bigger SUVs. For instance, the turning circle of a Jeep Wrangler is 34.9 feet, which is less than that for a Toyota Camry sedan. Compare that to the 43-foot turning circle for a full-size Chevrolet Suburban SUV, which can make U-turns and some parking maneuvers a bit problematic.

Another benefit of the smaller SUV’s are the extra features. For open-air driving, the Jeep Wrangler has a foldable soft-top, The Saturn Vue wears dent-resistant plastic body panels, and the Honda Element can be easy to load because it has side cargo doors with no fixed pillar. The tailgate on the Element is a clamshell design for easy loading, too, while the RAV4 and Mitsubishi Outlander are now offered with three rows of seats, if needed.

The Nissan Xterra debuted with stylish, tubular-looking roof rails that can accommodate a range of storage baskets and kits now also includes a step integrated into the side of the rear bumper. The step gives owners a leg up, if you will, so they can more easily reach items stored in the overhead roof racks. Nissan officials said they added this step after watching Xterra owners at ski facilities slip their feet into the tops of the rear tires in order to reach their ski equipment atop the Xterra.

Compact sport utilities may bring memories of early, small, rollover-prone, four-wheel-drive vehicles, but in recent years the vehicles have increased their track, meaning the distance between the two front or two rear wheels, which contributes to better stability.

Further, electronic stability control is available on several models. It's standard, for example, on Toyota's RAV4.

Small SUVs are also adding more standard safety features. The Kia Sportage ranks as the lowest-priced SUVs that comes with standard anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control and six standard airbags, including front seat-mounted side airbags and curtain airbags for both front and rear seats.

So what are the disadvantages of the smaller SUV? There is only a couple. Towing is one. Generally consumers can't expect to tow as much behind small SUVs as they might with larger sport utilities that have larger engines. For instance, the towing limit for a V8-powered Chevrolet Tahoe is 8,200 pounds—enough for a sizable trailer—while the much smaller Honda CR-V, which comes only with a four-cylinder engine, has a towing capacity of just 1,500 pounds.

Smaller SUVs also can't carry as much cargo. Generally, room behind the front seats for cargo ranges up to 72 cubic feet or so in compact SUVs, while large sport utilities offer more storage space. Maximum payload also is greater in the bigger SUVs.

So if you are thinking of downsizing in regards to size, rest assured, you won’t have to downsize in quality and safety, there are many choices out there to choose from, depending on the ‘size’ of your time to do the research.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgeable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area and is known as one of the bad credit car dealers in Austin. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Picking out Your Vehicle’s GPS Navigation System

2008-01-28T11:08:00.000-05:00

GPS or Global Positioning Systems for vehicles are much more accessible and affordable than it ever has been.

Today’s GPS units are not only affordable but also provide you with the newest technology and mapping software that can get you from point “A” to point “B”, warn you about traffic or weather, and more.

There are a variety of navigation systems available for your choosing. Within those varieties are the portable or in-dash units.

The portable units are mainly made to suction to your windshield and are powered from your vehicle’s DC outlet. These units are versatile and can easily unplug and be moved from vehicle to vehicle. Some even have built-in batteries to provide you with navigation without an external power source.

The downside of the portable units is the screen size, which is around 4 inches.

The in-dash navigation units usually include a Touch-Screen Monitor, which puts entering destination addresses at your fingertip. These systems replace your factory radio, and provide control over your entire audio system. With systems designed to fit both Standard and Oversized Radios it’s possible to find a system for any vehicle. Options such as Bluetooth, IPod Integration, Satellite Radio and TV tuners also allows you to completely outfit your vehicle.

When looking for the perfect GPS unit for your vehicle, ask yourself the following questions:

1. How often do you intend to use the system? Inexpensive units simply plug in to your car's cigarette lighter and are small enough to store in your glove compartment, but they're not as user-friendly.

2. Consider the layout of your car. Some systems come with a monitor that displays a map. The monitor is commonly installed on the dashboard or on a pedestal extending from the dashboard. In some cars, such an installation may block air vents or make it somewhat uncomfortable for a passenger to enter or exit the vehicle or sit in the passenger seat.

3. Select a system that features multiple ways of getting to your destination. This can include by address, by intersection, by a personal address book or via a location selected directly from the map.

4. Look for a system that gives you vocal as well as graphical directions. The systems that use a map and monitor include arrows that show you the direction of a turn and also indicate where your car is on the map in relation to the destination. Other systems use the head unit or radio to display the name of the street on which you are to make a turn or on which you are traveling. Both of these systems also give you verbal directions as you approach a turn.

5. Select a system that includes point of interest data. Most GPS systems include locations of airports and other transportation services, ATMs and banks, restaurants, hotels and a host of other sites.

6. Choose a system that offers updates of the point-of-interest data.

7. Consider installation time if you are working on a tight budget. Systems that rely on maps displayed on monitors are more complicated and take longer to install than other types of systems.

If you take the time to pick out your unit, you won’t be disappointed.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

The Benefits of Using Carfax when buying your next car

2008-01-21T16:46:00.000-05:00

If you are in the market to buy a used car, using Carfax as a research tool is worth the investment.

Carfax’ history dates back to 1986 when it worked closely with the Missouri Automobile Dealers Association, providing vehicle history reports to the dealer market. By the end of 1993, Carfax obtained title information from nearly all fifty states. When the largest automobile database, the company offered all consumers the same instant access to vehicle history reports that auto dealers, banks and other businesses were already subscribed to.

So what can Carfax provide you?

1. When the car was built
2. When and where the car was first registered
3. When the first annual inspection was done
4. When the second annual inspection was done
5. When the car was registered in a new state
6. When the car was offered for sale
7. Accidents - Not all accidents are reported and not all reported accidents are included, but a substantial number are listed
8. Advisories - Carfax aggregates enough data on most vehicles to infer certain events. When the inference is sufficiently strong Carfax will provide an advisory explaining the inference.
9. Airbag Deployment
10. Auto Auction - Many vehicles are sold at auction and Carfax reports on these sales
11. Certified Pre-Owned Status - Many manufacturers report the cars they certify to Carfax
12. Dates of activity - Most events shown on the report include a date of the event
13. Emission Test Results
14. Frame Damage - In addition to reporting accidents, frequently frame damage is reported
15. Lease / Lien events
16. Location - Most records include some indication of the city and state of origin for the event
17. Maintenance and Service Events - Like accidents, not all are reported, but a significant number are
18. Non-Branded Lemon - The manufacturer bought back the vehicle as a courtesy instead of due to legal requirement
19. Odometer Readings - These may include readings or title designations that the readings are not reliable
20. Odometer Rollbacks - Some rollbacks are certified while other irregular readings are highlighted with suggestion for careful review
21. Open Recalls - Many manufacturers report their open recalls to Carfax
22. Ownership Transfers
23. Repairs - Like accidents, not all are reported, but a significant number are, particularly when paid by an extended warranty company
24. Stolen Vehicles
25. Title Brands - Official state designations found on the title such as Salvage, Flood, Lemon, and Junk
26. Title Numbers
27. Titling Activity - transfers, renewals, etc.
28. Vehicle Use - taxi, fleet, commercial, personal, rental car and other uses are reported

Some information is not available on a report. Personal information such as names, telephone numbers and addresses of owners is neither collected nor reported.

The Downside to Carfax, although small is:
1. Accuracy -While most of the time the Carfax reports are accurate, there can be some instances where Carfax is not accurate. If you look at some of the consumer websites online (Consumer Reports, Consumer Affairs), there are reports that some of the information Carfax provided was incorrect and ended up costing the buyer thousands of dollars.

2. Seller's problems- Picture you're selling your car and you find out that Carfax is listing incorrect information - what do you do? Well according to some of the consumer websites, not much. One site listed one story indicating the seller sent all his car records to Carfax in order for them to update their information. However, Carfax refused. Therefore, it's better to check your car's information sooner rather than later to be sure it will not hurt you in the future when you sell your own car.

While you never can be 100% sure about the accuracy of the Carfax information, it well may be worth $30 to find out what is listed. More information is always better when you are buying a car.

Greg Chapman of Greg Chapman Motors is a knowledgable and leading provider of used cars, trucks, and SUV’s. Since 1959, Chapman motors has supplied reliable used cars in Austin and the surrounding area. For more information please visit http://www.gregchapmanmotors.com.

Get the Most from your Test Drive

2008-01-11T17:46:00.000-05:00

When you are shopping for a used vehicle, the test drive is an invaluable tool in determining whether a vehicle is the right fit for your needs. Shopping for a new or used car can leave you overwhelmed with all of the inherent decisions and tradeoffs, but knowing what to look for during your test drive can alleviate some of the pressure and help you make the right decision.

Before visiting a dealership to test drive what could be your next set of wheels, it is important to assess what features you need and want out of your next vehicle. Your current vehicle is a good starting point in determining what makes a vehicle a fit for you. Is there enough space, or are you seeking something larger? Are you happy with the fuel economy? Are the seats comfortable? Examining the benefits and shortcomings of your current vehicle can help you evaluate preferences and needs and aid in the selection process for your next vehicle.

Test driving a vehicle is about more than making sure the vehicle runs. Particularly when you will be checking out several options, it is helpful to take written notes of your observations for each. The following considerations are designed to help you maximize the benefits you receive from your vehicle test drive:

Cover the basics:

-Inspect the exterior and interior of the vehicle for blemishes and broken parts. Do all movable parts function properly (i.e.-console hinges, glove compartment, air conditioner vents)? Is there noticeable wear and tear? Are the tires in good condition or are they worn?
-Check for the presence of manufacturer supplied items such as the owner’s manual, spare tire and jack.

The road test:

-Assess whether the vehicle accommodates your body type and that of the other members of your household. This includes noting how easy or difficult it is for you to enter and exit the vehicle, whether there is adequate space in the seats, and whether seats are sufficiently comfortable for everyday use as well as long trips.

-Drive the vehicle in various traffic conditions. Testing the vehicle both in traffic and on the highway can help give you an idea of how the vehicle performs overall. Be sure to keep the radio off during the drive to ensure that you are able to hear any questionable noises the vehicle may produce.

-Every component of the vehicle counts. Test for functionality of power windows, door locks, sunroof, trunk mechanism, radio, air conditioning, heater, emergency brake, windshield wipers, lights, blinkers, and so on. Test every component large and small to prevent discovering unpleasant surprises after the deal is done.

-Listen carefully. Listen and feel for inconsistencies or odd occurrences when starting, driving and idling. Pay attention to how the vehicle shifts, brakes, and accelerates, noting any behavior that seems out of the ordinary. Rattling, vibrating or misalignment are issues that should be addressed.

-Judge your complete experience with the vehicle. While it is important to consider all of the small details you notice when test driving a particular vehicle, you must also have the mindset to evaluate your overall experience. You may discover that a certain vehicle feels completely right, while another seems completely wrong, even when you cannot pinpoint the exact grounds for your impression.

Also note that small problems do not have to be deal breakers. You may opt to simply repair an issue if everything else about a vehicle is perfect, or you may be able to work out an arrangement with the dealer. To get the most from your used vehicle test drive, pay attention to the details without losing sight of your overall experience with the vehicle.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of Austin TX used cars. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Is your Vehicle consuming more Fuel than it should?

2007-12-19T19:38:00.001-05:00

Before you hit the road this holiday season, you probably know to make sure the basics are covered on your vehicle—fluids are at the correct levels, all lights are functioning properly, hoses and belts are free of distress, tires are in good shape—all important components to check before a long trip. But some mechanical issues left unresolved can reduce the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, forcing you to spend more at the pump, which can have a large financial impact both during your trip and over the life of the vehicle. Addressing these potential issues before hitting the open highway this holiday season can help keep your vehicle running at optimal fuel efficiency:

-Are all tires in good shape and inflated to the appropriate pressure? You are likely aware that it is a good idea to check the tires before embarking on a long road trip, but did you know that underinflated tires can cause your fuel efficiency to suffer? Not only can improper inflation be dangerous and cause a tire to wear unevenly, but the increased resistance will negatively affect your vehicle’s fuel economy.

-Is the air filter clean? A clogged air filter can do more than hurt fuel economy, it can harm an engine. Fortunately, air filter replacement is an easy fix that can be accomplished with minimal money and time. According to www.fueleconomy.gov, changing a clogged air filter can affect an improvement in fuel economy of up to 10 percent! With the price of fuel soaring, replacing your air filter as needed can translate to true savings.

-Is the recommended type of motor oil being used in the vehicle? Ensuring that your vehicle is not in need of an oil change prior to a long trip should go without saying. But many motorists are unaware that using the grade of oil recommended for a particular vehicle is vital to optimal fuel economy. According to www.fueleconomy.gov, failing to use the type of motor oil for which an engine is designed, such as using 10W-30 where 5W-30 is recommended, can affect a 1-2% drop in fuel economy.

-Are spark plugs and wires up to par? Spark plugs are responsible for igniting a precise mixture of air and fuel, a process critical to propelling your vehicle. Spark plugs that are not performing optimally can combust inefficiently, wasting fuel in the process. A simple tune up may be just the key to improved fuel efficiency.

Remember, your driving style can also influence the fuel consumption of your vehicle. Rapid acceleration and driving at excessive speeds will reduce the gas mileage you could expect with more patient driving. Maintaining your vehicle and practicing conservative driving habits can help boost fuel economy, prolong the life of your vehicle and lessen the impact of volatile fuel prices on your finances.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading Austin used car dealer. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Register your Texas Vehicle and Avoid Unnecessary Fines

2007-12-19T19:17:00.000-05:00

Every Texas driver is required to display a valid registration sticker on his or her vehicle to show that the vehicle is currently registered with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Portions of vehicle registration revenues contribute to state highway funds, building and maintaining the state transportation infrastructure and to individual Texas counties to the tune of millions of dollars annually. A failure to obtain or renew your Texas vehicle registration can result in hefty fines if you are caught, and with the convenient ability to renew online, by mail or in person, you likely will not catch any sympathy from an officer who discovers that you are operating a nonregistered vehicle in Texas.

If you are new to Texas and you intend to drive your vehicle in the state, you must register the vehicle within thirty days to comply with Texas law. Also required within the first thirty days is passing a vehicle inspection and obtaining a Texas driver license. By legalizing your vehicle within the designated timeframe, you can prevent being issued multiple citations that will cost you considerably more than a timely registration renewal and inspection would have in the first place.

First and foremost, your vehicle must be insured and you must provide proof of such in order to have it inspected or registered. Before registering a vehicle, new Texas residents must have the vehicle inspected at an approved inspection station, prior to which proof of financial responsibility is required. Upon passing the vehicle inspection, you are issued a certificate indicating so, which you will need to present in order to register the vehicle. Armed with your proof of insurance, inspection certificate and proof of ownership of the vehicle (such as the title), visit your local county tax office to complete the required paperwork and pay the necessary fees to obtain a registration sticker for your vehicle.

Renewing a current Texas vehicle registration is simpler than renewing an expired one. Some Texas counties allow you to renew your registration online, a convenient option for many Texas drivers. However, if you wait until your registration expires, you will be required to renew it in person. If your vehicle was registered in Texas for the previous year, you should receive a renewal notice by mail prior to the expiration of your registration. This notice can be returned by mail along with your payment and proof of insurance, and you will receive the updated sticker by mail. If you do not receive a renewal notice, for instance if you have moved, be sure to contact the renewal office prior to your sticker’s expiration date to update your address and renew your registration on time.

Have trouble registering on time each year? You have the option of prepaying your vehicle’s registration for the next year or two and receiving updated registration stickers automatically when the time comes. Also, some Texas counties allow you to update vehicle registration at offsite locations, such as major grocery stores, which may provide a convenient option depending on your location.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading Austin used car dealer. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Safe Towing Practices

2007-12-10T16:20:00.001-05:00

The ability to tow a trailer optimizes the utility of a vehicle, and even many types of cars can double as tow vehicles when needed. Regardless of the size and type of a tow vehicle, towing a trailer introduces new risks and calls for extra cautious driving.

First, it is important to ensure that you are using the appropriate equipment for your vehicle and the trailer you will be towing. Though many cars can tow trailers, all cars cannot, and it is not enough to hitch up the trailer, load your cargo and hit the road. Consulting with the owner’s manual for your vehicle and staying within the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) specified for your vehicle is critical to safe towing. The GCWR is the maximum allowable combined weight of the vehicle itself, passengers, trailer and cargo, and should never be exceeded. Your vehicle owner’s manual may specify a maximum trailer towing capacity, so be sure to read and follow all recommendations before you load up. Additionally, adhere to weight and speed recommendations provided in the trailer’s owner manual or by the company from which you have rented the trailer.

Once you have verified that all components of the trailer, hitch and vehicle are functioning and secure, and weight is distributed on the trailer according to manufacturer recommendations, you are ready to begin your journey. Driving with a trailer in tow requires exercising more caution when stopping, accelerating, and maneuvering on the roadways. The first rule of safe towing is to take it slowly. With the added weight and length on your vehicle, you will need to allow more space to stop, start and slow down. Accelerating and decelerating at a slow rate will give you optimal control, minimize wear and tear on the tow vehicle and reduce the risk to other drivers on the road. Avoid sudden movements to protect your vehicle and prevent cargo from shifting and affecting the weight distribution of the load.

Towing a trailer on the road demands that you be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Check mirrors frequently so that you are aware of vehicles beside and behind you, and to inspect the trailer for problems. Keep the steering wheel gripped with both hands to maintain optimal control because wind, crosswinds from passing vehicles and uneven road surfaces could cause your vehicle to jolt unexpectedly. Additionally, extra space should be allowed when making maneuvers such as turns and lane changes. If you are traveling with a trailer for an extended distance, make frequent stops to perform a safety check on the cargo, hitch and tires of both the tow vehicle and trailer.

Because of the added weight, your vehicle will not react as quickly when it has a trailer in tow. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination when traveling with a trailer to avoid the temptation to speed or skip important safety checks. Adhering to all recommendations for your vehicle and trailer and exercising utmost caution when driving with a trailer in tow will help ensure safe travel for both your passengers and other motorists on the road.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Holiday Travel Hints: Tackle Road Trip Setbacks

2007-11-14T19:06:00.000-05:00

Embarking on lengthy road trips to spend holidays with faraway loved ones has become a coveted pastime for many families. For those whose holiday tradition includes hours traveling the unpredictable open highway, the excitement surrounding the holiday season is tinged with the inevitable strain of road travel—is the vehicle going to make it without problems? Will we spend countless hours in a traffic jam? Though not all of life’s travel inconveniences are avoidable, you can take precautions to reduce the chance that your family’s holiday travels will involve some of the most dreaded road travel setbacks.

In the scurry to pack, get children ready, wrap gifts and arrange for pet and plant care, many holiday travelers neglect getting the adequate number of hours of sleep before a long trip. Since drowsiness contributes to thousands of automobile accidents, having a cautious, alert driver is perhaps the most important safety measure a family can take to prepare for an accident free trip. Planning and packing in advance can help alleviate the last minute rush that leads too many drivers to miss out on valuable sleep prior to a long trip.

One important step that cannot be overemphasized is preparing your vehicle for the trip—ahead of time. Even newer vehicles need to be inspected by a trained eye to ensure that they are in road trip condition. Do not wait until the last minute to have your vehicle checked. Allow enough time to have any repairs performed if needed. If you will be traveling in an area where severe winter weather is probable, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with proper gear for the climate, such as snow tires or chains. If everyone took these simple precautions before traveling, less stranded vehicles would clog the roadways and create another major travel foe—the traffic jam.

Traffic jams evoke frustration and disrupt travel plans for many holiday travelers. Sometimes, encountering heavy traffic during the holiday travel season cannot be avoided. However, it is becoming more feasible than ever to learn what traffic conditions lay ahead so that you can redirect your planned route when conditions are adverse. Research whether there are travel information websites or phone numbers in your travel area, useful resources which provide information about routes that have traffic delays caused by construction, an accident, or unfavorable weather, for instance. Modern GPS devices are even beginning to incorporate live traffic information features that allow motorists to avert traffic jams altogether.

Even after your vehicle has been thoroughly checked and undergone any necessary repairs, it is still a good idea to have an emergency kit that contains items such as flashlights, blankets, a first aid kit, jumper cables, and an inflated spare tire to protect the family if all does not go as planned.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

What are Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)?

2007-11-09T14:31:00.000-05:00

Today, most new vehicles are equipped with an anti-lock braking system or offer it as an option, and many car shoppers consider anti-lock brakes a must when they make a vehicle purchase. Designed to give the driver control over the vehicle while coming to a rapid stop, anti-lock brakes employ precisely calculated, rapid pumping action to prevent wheels from locking up during a sudden stop. Anti-lock brake technology marks such a significant breakthrough in the automobile industry that in a 2006 report published by www.cars.com, anti-lock braking technology was rated the #1 automobile innovation in recent years and was credited it for paving the way for roll mitigation and stability control technology.

Let us examine for a moment what happens to a vehicle without ABS as sudden pressure is applied to the brake. The wheel is capable of coming to a stop quicker than the vehicle itself, resulting in a skid as the wheel locks but the vehicle continues to move. When a vehicle skids, there is little traction and the driver has minimal or no control over the direction the vehicle will go.

Anti-lock brakes employ computer controlled speed sensors which detect sudden deceleration and activate right before the point when the wheels would otherwise lock up. By rapidly releasing and reapplying pressure to the brake system in quick intervals, the ABS system allows the tires to decelerate at the same rate as the vehicle, preventing skidding and allowing the driver to steer away from obstacles while braking if necessary. Without ABS, a vehicle in the same situation could lose traction, leaving the driver at the mercy of the out of control vehicle and anything in its path.

Several studies have raised doubt regarding whether the presence of ABS actually prevents accidents, and some experts suggest that drivers being unaware of how to correctly utilize the system contributes to the findings. When you rapidly compress the brake pedal in a vehicle with anti-lock brakes, it is normal to feel a pulsing or vibrating from the pedal, and possibly some noise. In vehicles with ABS, brakes should never be pumped with the foot. In an emergency stopping situation, hold constant pressure on the brake pedal while maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel to control the direction of the vehicle, allowing the ABS to do the job for which they are designed.

In purchasing a vehicle with ABS, note that all ABS systems are not the same. While some systems include a speed sensor and valve for each of the four wheels, others may have just one valve and sensor for both rear wheels. Consult the owner’s manual for information about the type of ABS system with which a particular vehicle is equipped.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Wash your Vehicle like the Pros for Less

2007-11-09T14:30:00.000-05:00

Having a sparkling clean vehicle does more than boost your pride in driving it. Removing the many substances that collect on your vehicle with normal use—tree sap, salt, grease, dirt, dead bugs and the like—can be a simple step toward preserving the quality of its exterior paint and thus its value. While having a professional wash can be a convenient luxury, the price tag leads many vehicle owners to take car washing into their own hands. These do-it-yourself car washing tips can help you achieve the same shine as the professionals at a fraction of the price:

-Begin with the right supplies. Though the convenience may be tempting, using household dishwashing detergent or other cleaners is not recommended for washing vehicles, as they may contain detergents that could harm paint or wax coatings. Before you begin, prepare a solution of warm water and car wash product in the recommended proportions. You will also need a soft, clean cloth for washing and another for drying. It may be helpful to also have another cloth or brush for cleaning wheels and tires. Tire protectant and wheel (or wheel cover) cleaner appropriate for your vehicle are also good to have on hand for final touches.

-Take a top-down approach. Cleaning the top of your vehicle first will allow you to clean the roof, windshield and windows while your cloth is cleanest, which can prevent streaks and the need to re-rinse clean areas later. Clean the glass and roof first, rinsing often to prevent soap from drying before it is removed. The bottom perimeter of a vehicle is typically the most heavily soiled, so cleaning it last prevents transferring dirt particles to parts of the vehicle that have already been cleaned.

-Don’t stop at washing. Drying the exterior of your vehicle with a clean, absorptive cloth after washing will prevent water spots and pick up any dirt you may have missed.
-Details, details. Opening the doors of your vehicle will reveal an area often overlooked by people cleaning their own vehicles. The insides of door panels usually include an extension of the finish on the exterior of the vehicle, and collect debris that can be easily removed by wiping with a wet cloth.

-Accentuate with glossy wheels and tires. Clean wheels and tires are an attractive final touch that will make your vehicle look truly clean. Depending on the finish of your wheels or wheel covers, the car wash product used on the rest of the vehicle may remove brake dust and other debris, or a cleaner designed for such may be needed. Before purchasing a wheel cleaner, ensure that it is designed for the type of wheels or wheel covers on your vehicle to prevent damage.

Waiting long periods of time between washes can make the process more difficult as layers of debris collect on the vehicle. Though not necessary each time you wash your vehicle, regularly applying a coat of vehicle wax to protect the paint will help maintain its luster and make cleaning the vehicle easier the next time around.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Don’t Make your Vehicle a Target for Thieves

2007-11-02T15:15:00.000-05:00

Most people have in the back of their minds some concern about their vehicles being involved in an accident or unexpected breakdown—major inconveniences that leave many people across the country stranded without a vehicle every day. Though the likelihood is often ignored, theft represents another major threat to vehicles owners. In fact, www.nicb.org reports that a vehicle is stolen in the United States every 25.5 seconds—a telling statistic that reminds us why we should take precautions to protect our vehicles against thieves who are waiting for the moment we let our guards down. Here we examine some precautions vehicle owners can take to reduce the likelihood that their vehicle will be targeted by a thief:

-Never leave keys in the ignition. Neglect of this seemingly obvious piece of advice results in numerous effortless car thefts across the country. Even a quick thirty second run into a convenience store or your home is ample time for your car to disappear into the hands of a thief. Always take your keys with you when you leave your vehicle.

-Lock all vehicle doors, all the time. Simply locking the doors to your vehicle may be enough to deter a thief who is looking for an easy target. Keeping vehicle doors locked is advised not only when your vehicle is parked, but when you are driving as well to protect against carjacking. If a person approaches your vehicle while you are in it, drive away immediately.

-Keep windows closed completely when parked. Even a slightly open window can be enough to give a thief easy access to your vehicle, and may be the simple cue that attracts a thief to your vehicle in the first place.

-Keep valuables out of your vehicle, or at least out of view. If you must leave valuable items in your vehicle—or even items that may appear valuable to a thief—make sure to lock them in the trunk or otherwise out of sight. Anything that could entice a thief to target your vehicle should be considered a valuable item. Purses, wallets, jewelry, electronics, briefcases, laptops, shopping bags or other containers that may be perceived to hold valuable items should never be left in clear view from outside the vehicle. Hiding valuables also includes removing the face of a detachable face CD player if you have one.

-Utilize an alarm system. An alarm system can be a valuable deterrent to a thief seeking an easy target. A wide range of vehicle alarms are available, from the familiar audible alarm system to modern tracking systems that provide authorities with information about your vehicle’s location in the event that it is reported stolen.

-Park in well lighted, heavily traveled areas. Car thieves seek out environments conducive to committing their crimes unnoticed, such as poorly lit areas with little to no passersby. Parking your vehicle in a well lit, populated location can reduce the chances that a thief will target your vehicle for theft.

Precautions to prevent your vehicle from being stolen should not be overlooked. Car thieves are driven by the profits they can make by selling your vehicle, disassembling and selling its individual parts or the possibility of using your vehicle as an instrument to commit other crimes. Identity theft is another viable threat when a thief obtains access to all of the documents and information within your vehicle. Complying with the simple precautions above can help reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car theft.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Car Buying Tips: Protecting Resale Value from the Start

2007-10-22T15:03:00.001-04:00

When you first take ownership of a new vehicle, reselling it is probably the last thing on your mind. However, depreciation is a major cost associated with car ownership and one that should be taken into account with any vehicle purchase. In fact, an October 5, 2005 CNNmoney.com report attests that depreciation is the greatest cost incurred in the first five years of a vehicle’s life, surpassing that of maintenance and fuel. By being a conscious consumer and taking steps to protect your vehicle’s resale value, you can maximize your return in the event that you sell or trade your vehicle in the future. The following pointers are intended to help car owners obtain the optimal residual value from their vehicles.

-Analyze before you buy. When you are in the market for a vehicle, bear in mind that some types of vehicles simply hold their resale value better than others due to a number of factors. You may find it beneficial to consult current reports reflecting which vehicles have been found to hold value best, and keep this information in consideration when shopping for your next vehicle. What’s more, vehicles that are known to depreciate quickly may do so because of mechanical inconsistencies or failures, which may equate to higher maintenance costs on top of rapid depreciation for certain vehicle types.

-Document all maintenance and repairs. Maintaining your vehicle meticulously can keep it running to its optimal potential, prevent unnecessary repairs and contribute positively to its resale value. However, getting the best value when you sell or trade the vehicle will depend in part on your ability to show that such maintenance has been performed. It will pay off later to retain all maintenance records throughout your ownership of the vehicle, and include corresponding dates and mileage.

-Do not neglect “minor” problems. A small door ding may not sound like much of a problem, but can contribute to more rapid depreciation of your vehicle. Even a small scratch in your vehicle’s paint may provide the perfect environment for rust formation, after which damage becomes more apparent and repairs become more intensive and costly.

-Protect the interior. Properly caring for the interior of your vehicle will not only keep it looking new for you, it will also increase your chances of obtaining the best resale value for the vehicle when the time comes. Caring for the interior of a vehicle involves keeping it clean as well as protected. Refrain from habits such as eating in the vehicle, which can lead to stains and odors. If eating on the go is unavoidable, consider limiting it to foods with the least potential to spill or stain. You may want to take cleaning a step further and apply protectant to the hard surfaces to protect against damaging UV rays.

Optimizing the resale value you can expect to receive for your vehicle involves attention in both making the purchase decision and caring for the vehicle during ownership. Besides maintaining your vehicle and keeping it clean, you should also consider the effect on resale value when making modifications to the vehicle. A modification as simple as changing the paint color from white to yellow can affect a drop in your vehicle’s resale value. Likewise, an already yellow vehicle will likely not hold its value as well as an equivalent one in a more conservative color. In determining which vehicle to purchase and whether to modify it, be sure to contemplate whether the average car buyer would agree. Making the right decision could be worth thousands of dollars.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars for sale in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Car Shopping for Growing Families

2007-10-19T17:08:00.000-04:00

Becoming a parent for the first time will undoubtedly bring about changes to many facets of a person’s life. If you are expecting or adopting a child for the first time, you have likely begun to make a number of preparations in your home—childproofing for safety, stocking up on the basics and creating the space your growing family needs. Another important consideration is whether your current vehicle can adapt to the changing demands that will be placed on it as the family grows. Perhaps your current vehicle is adequate to meet your evolving needs, but many find that bringing a child into the family necessitates upgrading to a more family friendly vehicle. Here we address some factors you may consider when shopping for a new or used vehicle to accommodate an expanding family:

-Interior space. Any car with a backseat can accommodate a child safety seat, though the child’s seat is likely not the only extra cargo you will be transporting in your vehicle as your family expands. In shopping for a family friendly vehicle, be sure to take into account the extra space needed to transport items such as strollers, diaper bags and toys. Does your family take road trips? If so, ensure that the vehicle you select provides adequate space for all of your family members and their collective luggage.

-Safety ratings. While safety is often an important factor considered by car shoppers, many find that safety becomes a more significant concern when the prospect of transporting a child is added to the mix. Safety features in vehicles are becoming more effective as technology advances and increasing data about accidents becomes available. The internet can be a valuable resource in comparing the safety ratings of different vehicle models as determined by safety and crash testing.-Future family plans. A vehicle suitable for a family with one child may not serve the needs of a family with two or more children. If you are planning for more children in the next few years, you may consider purchasing a vehicle now that can accommodate the family’s future growth.

-Function vs. economy. Finding the vehicle that is just right may require some trade off when it comes to vehicle size versus economic sensibility. While an enormous SUV may be a tempting option due to the ample interior space, poor fuel economy may make the same vehicle an unviable option when the regular expense of fuel is a concern. Vehicle manufacturers are privy to consumer demands, and have begun producing vehicles that strike an appealing balance between functionality and fuel economy. Whether your family is best served by an SUV, minivan or car, fuel consumption is an inherent cost that should not be overlooked in your vehicle purchase.

Many of the factors you consider when shopping for a vehicle will stem from the individual needs and desires of your family. While a third row of seats may be a necessity for one family, a resilient leather interior may be deemed a requirement by another family. Before shopping for a vehicle, it may be helpful to ascertain what features your family considers absolutely necessary in a vehicle and which features are preferred but not mandatory.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars for sale in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Preparing your Vehicle for Winter

2007-10-12T16:24:00.000-04:00

As the winter season inevitably approaches, you may find yourself taking advantage of the remaining warm days, digging coats and scarves out of hibernation and dusting off the snow shovel in preparation for the upcoming season. As the days become shorter and the temperature drops, preparing your vehicle to endure the unpredictable weather of the winter season is another important precaution you can take to protect the safety of yourself and your family. Below we examine some areas of consideration that may help you prepare your vehicle to endure the frigid months ahead:

-Mechanical check-up: A basic check for proper functioning of your vehicle’s battery, windshield wipers and fluid, all lights, defroster, exhaust system, brakes, thermostat and heater can give you insight into what systems and components may benefit from maintenance or replacement before the winter weather arrives in full force. Now is a good time to perform any preventative maintenance you may have put off. Repair or replace damaged belts, hoses or other components if needed to protect against a needless breakdown in dreadfully cold temperatures.

-Proper type and level of coolant: Coolant is comprised of a combination of water and anti-freeze, which when used in the correct proportions will resist freezing. However, improper mixtures of water and anti-freeze can result in a freeze with the potential to cause serious damage to your engine. Ensure that the coolant in your vehicle is mixed correctly and suitable for the weather conditions in your area. It is also beneficial to repair any leaks that may be present and change your vehicle’s coolant as recommended by the manufacturer.

-Adapt your vehicle to the climate in your area. If you have recently moved to a new area, you may want to consider exercising any precautions that the wise and seasoned drivers living in your area suggest. In extremely cold climates, this may mean having a block heater installed to ensure that your vehicle starts on even the coldest of mornings. A set of snow tires may also be a sensible purchase for those living in areas that receive regular snowfall. The proper precautions to take will depend on the climate in the area in which you live. In Minnesota, for instance, snow tires are practically a necessity, while in southern Florida, not so much.

-Emergency stockpile. Hopefully, your meticulous preparation will pay off with an incident free winter of driving. But just as uncertain as the winter weather is whether your car will break down in the midst of it, and being prepared with some key safety items can improve your defense against the elements in the event that you become stranded. A first aid kit can come in handy year round, but storing a few additional supplies in your trunk for the winter season is a good idea. A strong ice scraper, ice brush, jumper cables, working flashlight, blanket, extra warm clothing, emergency road flares and sand or other material for traction are a few of the items that may be included in a winter emergency kit.

Even when your vehicle is fully prepared to brave a winter storm, the surest way to stay safe is avoiding driving in adverse conditions whenever possible, and practicing tremendous caution at times when driving is necessary.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Save Money on Gasoline Now

2007-10-01T12:28:00.000-04:00

Though fuel prices fluctuate, the price of gasoline seems to have been on the constant rise in recent decades. It is not uncommon today for a consumer to pay over $40 to fill up even a small car, and significantly more to refuel a sport utility vehicle, truck or commercial vehicle. Even motorists who drive minimally must spend thousands of dollars per year just for the ability to get from point A to point B. If you, like most people, are not quite ready to take the plunge on the purchase of one of the new alternative fuel vehicles on the market, you can benefit from these tips to reduce the fuel consumption in your own vehicle now.

-Don’t skip tune-ups. Regular tune ups can keep your vehicle running at its optimal fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance and replacement as needed of your vehicle’s air filter, fuel injectors, carburetor and spark plugs can make a dramatic difference in fuel consumption.

-Remove needless cargo. Maybe you’re the type to live half out of your home and half out of your vehicle. Or perhaps you transport equipment and tools in your vehicle for work. Either way, keeping your vehicle free of excess cargo whenever possible reduces the weight that the vehicle must propel, thus improving fuel efficiency.

-Plan the best route for errands. Leaving home with a lot to do and no plan often leads to backtracking and making multiple trips. Determine what exactly you need to do before leaving the house, and plan the shortest route that covers all your bases. Minimize fuel consumption by selecting the most direct route with the least stop signs and traffic lights, since stopping and accelerating will use more gasoline than maintaining a constant pace.

-Make a community effort. Carpooling and utilizing public transportation will perhaps reduce your fuel expenditures most drastically. Particularly if you have children that you haul to school, sports and elsewhere, combining trips with other parents is an excellent way to reduce fuel consumption, not to mention enjoy some time to yourself.

-Reduce resistance. Ensuring that your tires are inflated to the appropriate level for your vehicle is a simple but crucial way to improve your vehicle’s fuel economy as well as performance. Be sure to inflate tires to the pressure specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer, rather than the PSI specified on the tire. After market add-ons, such as roof racks and wind deflectors, decrease the aerodynamic efficiency of your vehicle. Removing such items reduces resistance and thus allows your vehicle to displace air the way it was designed.

Saving fuel is like saving money—every bit counts. By taking conscious action to maximize the fuel efficiency of your vehicle, you will minimize your contribution to pollution and save yourself some money at the same time.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Travel

2007-09-19T16:36:00.001-04:00

Many cities across the U.S. are currently utilizing High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes in their highway infrastructures, with the aim of decreasing congestion and improving air quality by encouraging increased use of public transportation and carpooling. High Occupancy Vehicle lanes are typically restricted to vehicles carrying two or more passengers including the driver, and motorists caught not complying with the lane’s intent are subject to penalties. Such restricted expanses of road are based partly on the principle that increasing the average number of passengers per vehicle will subsequently increase the number of passengers who can utilize a particular lane of the highway at once, which will hopefully reduce the number of vehicles crowding the roadways at a given time.

The traffic flow of High Occupancy Vehicle lanes can operate in one of a few ways, depending on what system is determined to be most efficient. Concurrent flow HOV lanes are separated from the standard lanes, usually by a barrier, but accommodate traffic flowing in the same direction as the regular lanes. Another type of HOV lane, the reversible lane, is usually situated in between the opposing lanes of traffic, and its traffic flow can be redirected during different times of the day to accommodate the travel direction with the heaviest flow. For instance, a reversible HOV lane may accommodate commuters traveling into a city in the morning, but flow may change to the direction leading out of the city in the afternoon rush hour when a majority of commuters are headed the opposite direction. A third type of HOV lane, called a contra flow lane, temporarily utilizes a lane from the opposite side of the highway to accommodate heavy traffic at certain times when traffic volume is high.

When used in the proper circumstances, HOV lanes can shorten commute times for multiple passenger vehicles and lessen congestion in other lanes, though there is some question about whether the benefit is perceived as substantial enough to encourage individual drivers to carpool or utilize public transportation. Studies on the effectiveness of HOV lanes have produced mixed results. HOV lanes can certainly be beneficial in areas where the traffic flow is considerable enough for a High Occupancy Vehicle lane to actually improve traffic flow. In some cases, where use of an HOV lane did not justify restriction, HOV lanes have proven ineffective and lanes have been converted back to standard lanes.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a leading provider of used cars in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Vehicle Rust Prevention

2007-09-07T17:22:00.000-04:00

Rust on a vehicle is not only an unappealing nuisance, but it can lower the resale value of the vehicle and in extreme cases lessen its structural strength.

The process of rusting is actually called oxidation, and results from long term exposure of certain metals to oxygen, with water acting as a catalyst. Though exposed metal on your vehicle is seemingly solid, it actually contains small cracks and blemishes which can be penetrated by water molecules. The hydrogen molecules of the water can react with the metal to produce acids, which in turn expose more metal and influence further corrosion. This is the reason that a small amount of rust seemingly affects a perpetual cycle of spreading to a larger area and diminishing the attractiveness and quality of a vehicle immensely.

The ideal rust solution is preventative; it is much easier to take precautionary measures against rust than to combat it once it has formed. Small areas of rust can eventually become extensive damage if measures are not taken to prevent its progression. Washing and waxing your vehicle regularly can significantly reduce the likelihood of the vehicle developing rust.

A small investment in a touch up paint kit can mean the difference between keeping your vehicle in excellent condition and watching helplessly as it becomes overcome with rust. A simple precaution you can take is periodically inspecting the painted surface of your vehicle for any scratches, dings or otherwise exposed metal, and taking action to prevent the formation of rust immediately. Covering exposed areas with touch up paint followed by a clear coat may be all you have to do to keep rust from forming. Touch up paint is available for essentially every vehicle on the road. If you encounter the need to order touch up paint to match your vehicle and there is a delay, you may use clear nail polish to cover and protect the exposed area in the meantime.

If you drive in a coastal environment or an area where roads are salted for winter weather, your vehicle is particularly vulnerable to the corrosive tendencies of rust. For this reason, it is especially important for you to have your vehicle cleaned and waxed regularly for protection, preferably by a professional service which cleans salt and debris from the underside of the vehicle as well as the outside.

If rust has already formed on your vehicle, a more intensive process must be undergone to rid the vehicle of rust and prevent its reformation. It is recommended to consult a professional if you have a need for rust removal.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a provider of used cars in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.

Which Came First – the Automobile or the Roads?

2007-09-07T17:21:00.000-04:00

Today, one can easily travel by automobile from one edge of the country to another given the time, patience and resources. Today’s vast roadway infrastructure combined with ever improving automobile manufacturing technology gives motorists of the United States travel options that were unheard of just a few decades ago. Drivers can now navigate thousands of miles on paved roads through rural areas and metropolitan cities with equivalent ease, though such widespread road accessibility has not always been the case. Road building is not by any means a new phenomenon, and can be traced back thousands of years. But the modern techniques and materials used in road construction today have given us safer, more durable roadways capable of enduring increasing traffic and lasting years longer than roads of the past.

Primitive road building relied mostly on conglomerates of gravel and sand. When commercially available automobiles were introduced and began to experience increasing popularity, shortfalls of the few roads that existed became apparent. Dirt roads throughout America soon proved inadequate for even the bicycle and wagon travel of the time. Booming popularity of Henry Ford’s Model T in the early 1900s spurred federal involvement in road development. A series of legislative acts throughout the years following facilitated the construction of new, asphalt paved roads that would expand America’s horizons for leisurely travel and commerce alike. Evolving military needs during World War II shifted the focus of road construction, prompting the proliferation of military use roads that were capable of withstanding heavier loads.

After World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt authorized a “National System of Interstate Highways,” though a lack of funding prevented progress on the construction of an interstate highway system until several years later when President Dwight Eisenhower approved the Federal Aid Highway Act of 1956. With federal funding finally in place to back the plan, construction began on the vast system of interstates that now connects major cities throughout the country and gives Americans access to modern roadways for both long and short commutes.
Residents of the United States are all affected in some way by the intricate system of roadways that now exists throughout the nation, either directly as travelers or indirectly through the use of products which are transported thousands of miles along U.S. roads and interstates to reach consumers. Road construction and the automobile industry have significantly influenced one another as they have both risen to unprecedented importance to the culture, lifestyle and commerce of America today.

About the Author: Greg Chapman, of Greg Chapman Motors, is a provider of used cars in Austin TX. For more information please visit Greg Chapman Motors.