How To Install Wiper Blades

Windshield wiper blades are usually composed of simple rubber only, so just imagine how long they can take continuous up and down motions as well as changing weather conditions. Since they are very fragile compared to other automobile components, you should know how to install wiper blades.

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HOW TO CHOOSE WIPER BLADES

Before learning how to install wiper blades, you should know how to choose replacements first. What should you consider before purchasing new wiper blades? Aside from size which you can easily get from your owner’s manual, you must also decide about the type of blades your car really needs. Here are major types of wiper blades that are often compared with one another:

CONVENTIONAL BLADES

Known as the most common type of wiper blade, the conventional or standard ones are practical but they do have flaws. In fact, the discovery of beam blades is rooted in the disadvantages of using conventional types.

Standard blades have a lot going on with their components moving at the same time. If there are more components used, then there is a higher risk of damage. Additionally, conventional blades have their frames exposed which results in clogs, wind-lift, and a distracting view on the windshield. Also, they have limited pressure points which may lead to uneven contact with the windshield’s surface, resulting to streaks and scratches. Lastly, they do not contribute much to the car’s overall appearance.They are too simple to look at.

However, conventional wiper blades are the cheapest options. Since blades are naturally fragile, should you really invest in something that is not even guaranteed to last for years? Let’s face it, beam blades are much more expensive but they do not ensure years of service. Before you even start doubting our second option, find out the in-demand features of beam blades first.

BEAM BLADES

Even though conventional wiper blades are undoubtedly the most common choices for most cars, beam blades are gradually taking the spotlight because of their modern features.

Also known as frameless, spineless, bracketless or flat wipers, beam blades were originally made for newer vehicles like Volvo, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz in the year 2000. Since their design perfectly represents automotive innovation, they definitely have captured the attention of car owners and enthusiasts.

Beam blades have less moving components, leading to a lower risk of breakage. Next, they have low-profile frames. If the frames are more hidden than the standard look, ice and snow will not easily clog them. In addition, they provide a clearer view of your windshield. More importantly, they have fewer chances of catching wind because of their built-in wind spoiler. Wind-lift is a safety hazard since it decreases contact, leading to an ineffective cleaning of the windshield. Meanwhile, beam blades have unlimited pressure points which result in smoother contact, hence a cleaner view. Finally, the last advantage revolves around aesthetics. Beam blades have an edgy style, perfect for today’s standards of what a modern car should look like.

SUMMER VS. WINTER BLADES

Winter blades have their own category. However, what makes them perfect for ice and snow? On the other hand, do cars really need special blades just to survive heat and rain during summer?

Let’s start with the notion that there is such thing as special wiper blades for summer. Actually, the summer blade is just a general representation of the features ideal for a hot season. For example, in case it rains, conventional blades are useful because of their multiple moving components, comprising a lattice framework. This type of framework prioritizes multiple pivot points and bars for flexibility in wiping rain off the windshield. It makes it easier for you to wipe bigger areas.

However, summer blades may also refer to beam blades. Since beam blades are thinner and more lightweight, they reduce friction. Intense friction is the last thing you need during hot days.

Now, it is time to discuss winter wiper blades. These blades use flexible, soft synthetic rubber to withstand freezing temperatures. Their materials are usually Teflon and silicone since they can keep the blades from getting hard. Regarding the winter blades’ frame, it is really sturdy because it only uses one moving part. The sturdiness aims for movement during blizzards while the single moving component prevents clogs. Aside from the usage of only one moving component to avoid clogs, winter blades also have a protective armor or shield.

HOW TO INSTALL WIPER BLADES

If you’re experiencing reaching fewer miles per gallon, there’s probably something wrong with your spark plug or your air filter is already clogged and dirty. If you notice that the low fuel economy appears with an odd sound, consider scheduling a tuneup right away.

RAISE THE WIPER ARM.

To successfully install wiper blades, you should raise their metal arms to avoid hitting the windshield during installation. Make sure that the arm is steady. You should do this step carefully because a spring-loaded arm can snap back. We do not want you to break your windshield just to install new blades.

REMOVE THE OLD BLADE.

Obviously, in order to learn how to install wiper blades, you should also know how to remove old ones. Simply unhook the old blade after pressing the stopper. The stopper is a small component located at the intersection where the arm meets the blade. It is usually made of plastic. If your blades use pins instead of a stopper, push the tab up or use a screwdriver. Then, pull the blade away from the arm. It should go sideways.

INSTALL THE NEW BLADE.

To install the replacement blade, just reverse the whole process. Just make sure to secure the blade either by snapping the hook into place or closing the tab. Some wipers easily snap back to the windshield, so you might need to do the process single-handedly because your other hand should hold the wiper from start to finish. To protect your windshield in case you accidentally let go of the wiper, fold a towel and place it on the windshield.

SUMMARY

One of the easiest things to learn about car maintenance is knowing how to install wiper blades. It is just a matter of reversing the removal process.

Also read: How To Jump Start The Battery

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To Know More About Car Servicing In Mumbai, Visit Solitaire Honda Mumbai, Contact us at 022 67385588 or email us at info@solitairehonda.com

Source - globalcarsbrands.com

What Is A Tune Up? The Most Important Things You Should Know

If you’re a new car owner, hearing that your car needs to undergo an engine tune-up can be overwhelming, particularly if you haven’t heard of that term yet. The truth, however, is that engine tune-ups are part of a car’s routine scheduled maintenance. It’s basic and it’s something that shouldn’t stress you out.

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WHAT’S INVOLVED IN A TUNE-UP?

Technically speaking, a car tuneup isn’t really new. It’s an outdated service wherein parts of the car are replaced to ensure the vehicle’s maximum efficiency and performance. A modern tuneup, however, includes cabin air replacements and new spark plugs. The two are part of your car’s maintenance schedule. You can think of it as something similar to the schedule you do in getting an oil change or checking your tire’s

NOW, WHY THOSE TWO?

Cabin filters aren’t that critical to your car engine’s performance. However, since they can get clogged and create a really poor airflow to the dashboard vents, they need to be checked and changed on a regular basis. Spark plugs, on the other hand, are present on all vehicles. They typically require replacements every 100,000 miles. Failure to replace them can create a lot of problems in your car. In addition to those two parts, there are modern vehicles that still require certain items to be taken care of routinely. The list includes the myriad of fluids that are necessary for a car to run, like the transmission fluid, engine oil, and coolant. Your car’s battery, as well as the surrounding area, should also be assessed during the routine tune-up. The mechanic should check the life and condition of the battery and if there’s any presence of battery acid around the hardware. Your car’s belts and hoses should be inspected as well. Your mechanic should make sure that the clamps holding the hoses in place are intact and secure. The same applies to the belts. They shouldn’t display any splitting or cracking. If there are defects in the belts, they should be replaced before they even snap and get broken. Don’t forget your windshield wiper during the tune-up. You wouldn’t want to deal with the annoying squeak of malfunctioning wipers when it rains. Apart from that, be sure to have your mechanic top off the wiper’s fluid. It’ll help you keep your windshield clean and sparkling with just a press of a button. Your tail lights, headlights, brake lights, and blinkers are essential parts your mechanic shouldn’t miss as well. They need to be functioning well when you’re driving to avoid accidents and problems.

SIGNS YOUR CAR NEEDS A TUNE-UP

Just like going to a doctor, the first thing that your mechanic will ask you are the changes in the way your car runs that prompted you to ask for a tune-up. In most cases, the following signs and symptoms may suggest that a tune-up is necessary:

Engine Deposits

This is frequently caused by contaminated or low-quality gasoline creating problems with the drivability of your car. The best way to solve that is to do a fuel system cleaning.

Clogged Engine Air Filter

This often results in a small but steady loss of performance. If not addressed right away, it will leave you with a car running like a turtle.

Misfiring Engine

A worn out or fouled spark plug typically causes engines to misfire. Additionally, bad spark plugs can also cause slugging acceleration and hard starting.

Low Fuel Economy

If you’re experiencing reaching fewer miles per gallon, there’s probably something wrong with your spark plug or your air filter is already clogged and dirty. If you notice that the low fuel economy appears with an odd sound, consider scheduling a tuneup right away.

Check Engine Light Turns On

Before you panic, a check engine light doesn’t really mean that there’s something wrong with your car. There are actually a handful of reasons why it would turn on. In some cases, it’s simply caused by a faulty gas cap. Now, if you notice that the light is flashing, you should consider taking your car to a repair shop soon. It’s usually an indication of something malfunctioning in the system.

Unusual Sounds

A transmission grinding or engine clunking are hard to miss. If you notice any unusual sound in your car and you can’t find where it’s coming from, visit a repair shop.

HOW MUCH DOES A TUNE-UP COST?

Typically, a minimal car tune-up can cost you around $40 to $150. If you are looking for a more standard tune-up, prepare as much as $200 to $800. That price includes the cost of replacing the wires, rotor, spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, changing the oil, and inspection of the car’s systems. Apart from the cost of the tune-up, expect to pay a small fee for the hourly labor rate of the mechanic. It typically costs between $40 to $90 in repair shops and about $80 to $150 at dealerships. The prices mentioned can change depending on the location, the parts that need replacement, as well as the required hourly labor rate. Before you get your car opened and checked, it’s best to ask for the estimated cost of the tune-up. This is to make sure that you don’t end up getting surprised by the total cost you have to pay. Don’t hesitate to ask about discounts as well. Also, be involved as much as possible. Even if you’re new to owning a car, it doesn’t mean that you can rely completely on your mechanic or repair shop. You can’t expect everyone to be honest with you all the time.

CONCLUSION

Getting a car tune-up is necessary whether you own a new or used car. It’s a basic part of your car’s routine maintenance. As a new car owner, you should have a clear idea of what a tune-up is, what is involved in the process, how much it costs, and what you can expect after. It also a good idea to be aware of how your car runs as much as possible. That way, you’ll be able to recognize the signs that your car requires a tune-up.

Also read: Reasons for Car Shaking when Engine Starts

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To Know More About Car Care Tips Mumbai, Visit Solitaire Honda Mumbai, Contact us at 022 67385588 or email us at info@solitairehonda.com

Source - globalcarsbrands.com

Is Everything Covered Under Bumper to Bumper Policy?

With a name like Bumper to Bumper Cover, you believe that everything needed to be insured is actually covered under this car insurance policy. But is it? Let's find out.

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What is Bumper to Bumper Insurance?

Bumper to bumper, zero depreciation or Nil depreciation vehicle insurance is a car insurance policy that leaves out the depreciation from the insurance cover, thus ensuring a complete cover. It means that if your vehicle gets damaged following an accident, no depreciation will be subtracted from the coverage of wearing out of any body parts of car excluding tyres and batteries. The insurance company will be liable to bear the entire cost of the body part for replacement. Bumper to bumper or nil depreciation car insurance policy offers 100% coverage for all fibre, rubber and metal parts without deduction of any depreciation. It although does not cover engine damage due to water ingression or oil leakage. No mechanical breakdown, oil change or consumables are covered in this policy. The policy also comes with a limit on the number of claims one can put in a year. It is advised bumper to bumper insurance is more beneficial to:

• People who have purchased a new car
• People with expensive luxury cars
• New or inexperienced drivers
• People living in areas that are more prone to accidents
• High end cars that have expensive spare parts

What the Standard Private Motor Insurance Plan does not Cover

Regular wear and tear of the vehicle is not covered by the auto insurance policy, as is the normal depreciation of a vehicle. Hence, the car’s damage will never be fully compensated for in the event of claim approval as depreciation and wear-and-tear have to be accounted for. Also, no consequential damage, an indirect result of a direct loss, to the motor is ever covered either. At the time of the claim, any insurance company will apply the depreciation rate to the damages sustained by the car to decide the final amount payable for settling the insurance claim. Without fail, there is a difference in the market cost of the new part and the depreciated amount that the insurer paid, and this difference is to be borne by the ‘insured’ car owner. In fact, if you are one of the conscientious ones who check the fine print you would know that the depreciation deducted on many items amounts to quite a lot. For example, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDA) has ordained that

• On rubber, nylon, and plastic parts, and batteries – 50% depreciation be deducted,
• On fibre glass components – 30% depreciation be deducted, and
• New or inexperienced drivers
• People living in areas that are more prone to accidents
• On wooden parts – depreciation be deducted as per the age of car (such as 5% in the first year, 10% in the second year, and so on.)

Fix the problem – a Bumper to Bumper Cover

Like most things, even in car insurance, if there is a problem there has to be a solution – in terms of an add-on plan or such. The resolution of this issue is an additional insurance policy called the Bumper to Bumper cover. Under this policy, also known as Zero Depreciation, there is total (100%) coverage for all fibre, rubber and metal parts of the vehicle without any deduction of depreciation. For example: If your car [a standard hatchback] was damaged and the workshop billed you at Rs. 40,000 for the repairs, you might have to pay as much as Rs. 20,000-25,000 out of your own pocket, on account of depreciation of plastic and metal parts. This is when you had just a comprehensive car insurance policy. But if you have a zero depreciation add-on on your comprehensive policy, no depreciation will be deducted on any of these components, except for tyres and battery. Some insurance companies will also offer to cover the costs for emergency transports, roadside assistance, tow away services, regular maintenance, key replacements and such other costs under its aegis. It is little wonder then that the Bumper to Bumper Insurance policy, which was introduced in India only in 2009, has earned many other monikers such as the Nil Depreciation and depreciation waiver policy.

Reasons for popularity

There is a reason–actually several—why the Zero Depreciation is the largest selling add-on private motor insurance plan. First-time car buyers are an easily scared lot. The fact that this additional policy covers the depreciation amount of the claim, offers them assurance in a way that the standard motor insurance policy does not. So this policy is a very attractive proposition for them. Even car owners who employ drivers and/ use their vehicles very regularly have been found to be in favour of this additional auto cover. Another dedicated fan base for Bumper to Bumper plans is those car buyers who favour high-end and very expensive cars. The furnishings, needless to say, and components of these cars are also very costly. So when the owners are advised to pay an extra premium to cover all of these features adequately, they find it a small price to pay for their peace of mind.

Features of the Zero Depreciation Policy

HERE IS A LIST OF WHAT IS USUALLY OFFERED UNDER THE NIL DEPRECIATION PLANS.

• Due to the greater coverage offered by Bumper to Bumper policies, the premium costs are substantially higher than regular comprehensive motor insurance policies at times as high as 10% to 20%. Of course, the price comes with the assurance of complete peace of mind.


• Zero Depreciation plans are more or less for brand new cars. The policy is not available to cars beyond five years of age or ones that have clocked more than a certain number of kilometers. In fact, the already high premium only increases in proportion to the age of the car. It is not advisable to pay such high premium on old cars.


• Bumper to Bumper Car insurance Policies usually have a limitation on the number of claims that you can make in a year. Check your policy document for the details as they vary from insurer to insurer.


• The policy does not cover damage to the car engine due to water ingression or oil leakage, and standard wear and tear to components such as tyres, clutch plates, bearings, etc. Mechanical breakdowns not amounting to an accident, consequential, and consumables also feature on this list of exclusions under this additional insurance cover.


• There is also a compulsory deductible in the event of any claim, be it for a standard comprehensive plan or a Bumper to Bumper one that is to be paid for by the car owner. Find out the exact details at the time of policy purchase or renewal.

Before buying a car go to a service centre and check out the spare parts prices and find out how expensive it is to maintain the car. Remember maintenance costs vary from car to car and depend on how good a condition you keep your car in.

THE USUAL HYGIENE EXCLUSIONS APPLY HERE AS WELL. THE CLAIM IS CONSIDERED NULL AND VOID IF

1. The private vehicle was being used for a commercial purpose,

2. The driver was driving without a valid driving license,

3. The driver was found to be under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicant

4. The driver was involved in illegal or malicious driving

5. The claim is not made in the required timeframe since the incident.

A vehicle is vulnerable to damages and unforeseen incidents at all times, whether on the road or while at rest. A standard motor insurance plan may not be able to protect it as much as is required. Bolster the protection you offer your car with an additional Bumper to Bumper policy. The extra premium may be worth it.

Also read: Top 10 Safety Features in a Car

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To Know More Honda Car Insurance in Mumbai, Visit Solitaire Honda Mumbai, Contact us at 022 67385588 or email us at info@solitairehonda.com

Source - coverfox.com

New Car Buying Tips

Buying a car can be an overwhelming experience. Zeroing in on the right car, deciding to buy it and then finally purchasing it is not only hugely emotional but is also an extremely important financial decision. With most people buying cars on loans from banks and other financial institutions, buying a car involves a financial commitment over a period of time after all. Once all these are taken into consideration, it is obvious that you don't get taken for a ride at the showroom and end up picking a car that is not really matched with your needs but you bought it thanks to the salesman's smooth talking. So we have a word of advice for when you go shopping cars.

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1. Be informed

Research and be informed. To facilitate a quick, effortless transaction, be prepared with your own paperwork. Use the internet and read automobile magazines, to research vehicle types, variants, options, features, and prices. It’s a good idea to have two or three vehicles on your wishlist, as flexibility goes a long way towards getting the car which will be value for your money. If you’re looking for a specific car that is good on mileage and easy to park, let the salesperson know. This will eliminate the overzealous salesperson from selling you a car you really have no use for.

2. Never go alone

This one is especially for female car buyers. Now, we're in no way sexist and we really do believe in female empowerment, but we do know of cases where women buyers have been overcharged. So if you have a male in the family, take him car shopping. It's a good idea even for male buyers to take someone along, if only for a second opinion.

3. Decide a budget

Decide the maximum amount of money that you can afford to spend on buying a car. If you are buying a car by availing a car loan then decide what is the EMI that you can afford on your present income.

4. Don't talk money

Don’t discuss your ability to pay or if you plan to exchange your old car. All of these things can and will work against you in the final outcome of your purchase. Most salespeople like a challenge so they will try to push you into spending more than you wanted to if you name your price right off. This is collateral damage (and higher commission for the salesperson) at your expense. Know the value of your old vehicle to make sure you get the best deal. Simply go to multi-brand used car dealers and get the vehicle valuated. You can then negotiate accordingly.

5. He's no friend

The salesman is not your friend, no matter how charming or harmless he seems. Although some dealerships may pride themselves on making repeat customers by giving great deals, the truth is the only thing they really care about is whether you'll spend your money at their showroom. If you are not totally and completely comfortable with the salesman that attends to you, ask for a sales manager.

6. Calculate costs

Before buying a car go to a service centre and check out the spare parts prices and find out how expensive it is to maintain the car. Remember maintenance costs vary from car to car and depend on how good a condition you keep your car in.

7. Petrol vs diesel

Petrol cars are cheaper to buy but they don't match up to a diesel vehicle's economy. But diesel cars cost more than petrol ones and maintenance expenses are higher too. If you have to drive long distances everyday then the diesel makes sense otherwise stick to a petrol car. So give a thought to all these factors before deciding whether to buy a petrol or diesel car.

8. Avoid impulse

At all costs, avoid impulse buying when purchasing a vehicle. Never let the salesperson know just how much you desire a specific vehicle. That knowledge puts the entire sales process in his court.

9. Test drive

A test drive should last a minimum of 20 minutes. You should travel a route that is familiar to you to avoid any surprises in terrain. Check the car out in light and heavy traffic, curves and bumps as this will tell you how well the car handles. Check out the brakes by feigning an emergency stop to see how they react. Try parking it and re-parking it in a parking lot.

10. Be ready to leave

If the dealership will not do the deal, just walk away. You will know how much leverage you have over the dealership by the number of cars waiting in their parking lot. Remember if there are 50 cars waiting at the showroom parking lot then they need to sell them.

Also read: 10 Driving tips for New Learners

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To Know More Car Buying Tips In Mumbai, Visit Solitaire Honda Mumbai, Contact us at 022 67385588 or email us at info@solitairehonda.com

Source - carwale.com

10 Driving tips for New Learners

When one is learning how to drive, there are a lot of things that need to be kept in mind. In fact, whether a rookie or a mature driver, it is very important for all to be really careful when behind the steering wheel. Here, we bring to you a compact list of 10 basic rules that should be kept in mind. This list is aimed towards people who are learning to drive and are fairly new to it but along with them, it is also a reminder to all practiced drivers as well because it is usually the practiced drivers, who forget the basic ground rules and cause a ruckus on the road. Read on for the basic 'Do's and Don’ts' of driving.

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1. Get familiar with your car

The first and foremost thing that you should do before you start driving is to get comfortable with your car. Get familiar with the basics of the car in theory before you practically start driving it. Learn what a clutch does, understand the gear arrangements and learn facts like one should never shift to a lower gear at a higher speed and that it’s always better to let the car come to a stop before you switch to reverse.

2. Correct your seating position

The second most important thing that an amateur driver should learn is, the seating position; even the learned drivers don't position themselves correctly and thus lack comfort and control, which increases the probability of accidents. Ensure that you sit straight with your back and buttocks cupped in the seat fully and are at an angular position thus helping to prevent back injuries.

The chair should be set in a position where you can see all around, very easily and comfortably. It is usually said the height of the seat should be such that your eyes are at half the height of the windshield. The chair should longitudinally be at a position, where your knees are not stretched too much when pedaling the car. Sit upright and don’t stoop forward.

3. Avoid distractions

Once you are in the driver's seat, be attentive, adjust the mirrors, wear your seatbelt and keep the rules of the road in mind. Avoid distractions while you are driving because nowadays the roads are jam packed and therefore you need to keep your eyes and attention focused towards it for every single second. Two most common and basic rules before you start driving; don't use a mobile phone while driving and don’t drink and drive. Along with these rules, new drivers especially should avoid eating, turning up the music to a very high volume and indulging in deep conversations.

4. Adjust your seat in regards to the pedals

The seat should always be set in regards to the pedals. Push the brake fully with your right foot and depress the clutch, this should be done in a manner such that while depressing the pedals fully, your knees stay bent at about 120 degrees.

5. Steering wheel position

Though, there is no one correct way of holding a steering wheel. The correctness depends on how you want to hold it to be able to have maximum control over the wheel. Most researches show that the “9 o’clock and 3 o’clock” position is the best. It’s very important to hold your steering wheel correctly to have the best control of the steering and in turn, the car.

6. Remember to use turn signals

Understand the importance of turning signals. Once you are on the road, you are one among many therefore it is very important that you alert the vehicles around you when you are about to turn. Using signals helps save a lot of mishaps on the road.

7. Don't over- speed

The most common temptation, when one is behind the steering wheel, is to speed up. It is very important that you first get familiar with the car before you start speeding.

8. Maintain a considerable distance from other vehicles

Today the cars have very powerful braking systems but despite that one should maintain a decent distance from the vehicle that is moving in front. You might be very courteous towards the rules of the road but that doesn't mean that the others are too. Today the best way to drive safely is to be a defensive driver rather than an aggressive driver.

9. Don't over use the horn

Horns are to alert the drivers around you, not to take out your frustration. Most of the times, excessive usage of horns can irritate the drivers around and cause unnecessary trouble. An enraged driver around you might cause a lot of problems on the road.

10. Keep calm while driving

Don't let your mood influence the way you drive, especially if you are a novice. A drive in anger shouldn't force you to over speed and a good mood doesn't mean that you have the levy to stroll in middle of the road.

Also read: Reasons for Car Shaking when Engine Starts

Back to All Car Maintenance Tips, Tricks, Article, Resources

To Know More Honda Cars Dealer Andheri and Borivali Mumbai, Visit Solitaire Honda Mumbai, Contact us at 022 67385588 or email us at info@solitairehonda.com

Source - autoportal.com