Transmission Flush

Posts Tagged ‘Cars’

In order to maintain you car in a good shape, to offer you the safety as well the performances it was designed for in the first place, taking care of your vehicle’s transmission is a vital thing you should take care of. Modern cars have very complex drive trains, and the transmission being one of the most important elements of it, repairing it because of the in-proper use can be very costly. The most serious operations on a car’s drive train can only be executed in specialized shops, but the casual maintenance operations you can make them yourself.

The biggest enemy of the vehicle’s transmission is heat. There are many causes for the heating of the transmission’s elements, and many are related to operating your car under difficult conditions. Racing with your vehicle, towing a load, or repeatedly putting it in drive and reverse for exiting heavy snow or mud can contribute to the overheating of its ensembles.

If you often are forced to operate your car under these circumstances, you can benefit greatly from adding additional cooling to your transmission. Such a cooler will be mounted on the radiator and it will cool the transmission fluid. Because many SUV owners use them to tow heavy vehicles, they came equipped from the factory with such auxiliary transmission coolers.

In the following paragraph you will find a series of tips about properly maintaining your car’s transmission.

The most important aspect is to have your transmission fluid checked on a regular basis. Also check for its color. It should be red. If it had turned brown or it has a burnt smell should be changed at once.

Before buying transmission fluid, check with your car’s owner’s manual to se the exact type the manufacturer recommends. Never mix two different types of fluid of fluids coming from different manufacturers.

The recommended period to replace it is every 2 years or every 24,000 miles, which ever condition occurs first.

When you want to put your car in reverse, come to a complete stop first. Changing from drive to reverse while the vehicle is still moving will harm your transmission.

In order to protect vital transmission elements, put the cark into park after you have pressed the brake pedal and pull the emergency brake. By doing this, less stress is applied to the drive train.

Always change gears from park to drive only when your engine is at idle.

When towing a very heavy load or when you are climbing abrupt terrain, be sure to disengage the overdrive feature, if your car is equipped with such a option, as it will prevent the car from repeatedly changing gears from and to overdrive. Overdrive is the highest gear in the transmission and it used to allow that vehicle to run at highway cruising speeds with a reduced revs, in order to mainly save fuel and reduce noise. If the automatic gear in your car has a 4-speed transmission with overdrive, the overdrive refers to the 4th gear. The same is with cars with 5-gear automated transmission with overdrive. There is the possibility to have a smaller car, with a 4 or 5 way automated transmission, but without the overdrive function.

Hybrids are hot nowadays. Hybrid cars use 2 engine, one for the traditional fuel, while the other uses the energy from a rechargeable battery. The recent years had car manufacturers scrambling to rollout a entire spectrum of hybrid Cars from the most popular brands to the more obscure. What then is or guarantee that we are protected from too much hype, instead of an honest advertising?

Hybrid Cars according to Consumer Reports.

There are many hybrid cars information available, especially on their features, engine specifications, designs, colors and much other dizzying information. Information from the manufacturer’s website are also good source of needed preliminary knowledge n hybrid cars. But such sites are good for information gathering, and much more comparison activities should be done before buying your hybrid cars.

The Pros. “These hybrid systems have been very reliable,” declares David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports’ auto test center, influential consumer survey. This center, collects individual consumer reports on hybrid cars, and uses the statistics to come up with a talk paper. It also accords “awards” to car with the best review report. However, some automobile experts and analysts have criticized the hybrid car powertrain, as flamboyant in that two engines are being used for one purpose. Consumer Reports on the other hand, disagreed. Champion explained that the electric motor adds power to the engine. Prior to the award proper, Consumer Report conducts a testing, by applying some actual expectations of consumers to hybrid cars. The Accord hybrid for instance, achieved superior fuel efficiency unsurpassed by its conventional counterparts.

The Cons. But as in other endeavor, consumer reports on hybrid cars also impartially advises from a different perspective. An alternative consumer view from the same center posed the question: “Considering a hybrid car? Don’t rush out to the dealership just yet.” The center asserts that they are not against the protection of environment and it also insisted that they are supportive for burning less fossil fuel. Their concerns, essentially stems from some financial experts arguments that hybrid drivers may be paying a higher price for an automobile that offers marginally better fuel efficiency than the other economy cars already on the road.

These are but only few of the literature that deals with consumer reports on hybrid cars. It is, ultimately, depends on the consumer, to peruse on many information regarding hybrid cars.

Visit my site for more details on Environmentally Friendly Cars and more.

Maintaining a vehicle is no longer as easy as it used to be. With rising fuel costs more and more car owners are finding it difficult to make ends meet. To meet the challenges posed by ever increasing fuel costs and pollution, car manufacturers are trying hard to come out with effective solutions. Hybrid cars – the new technology cars – offer drivers an efficient, innovative, and feasible option.

What are hybrid vehicles?

Any vehicle that combines two or more sources of power to exact propulsion power is a hybrid. Moped is a type of hybrid vehicle because it combines the power of a gasoline engine with the pedal power of its rider.

Most locomotives are diesel-electric hybrids. Diesel-electric buses which draw electric power from overhead wires and fall back on diesel when away from wires are also hybrid vehicles. Giant mining trucks are often diesel-electric hybrids.

Hybrid cars

A hybrid car is run by a small fuel-efficient gas engine coupled with an electric motor. The motor is powered by batteries that recharge automatically during a drive. Its function is to assist the engine when the engine is accelerating. The motor also helps to slow the car by a method called regenerative braking. In this mode, the electric motor acts as a generator and charges the batteries while the car is moving, slowing down or not running at all.

New hybrid cars are also equipped with unique features like periodic engine shut off. This feature enables the engine to shut off for a while when the car is held up in traffic, and restart automatically when you put it back into gear. Logically, the more electricity the car uses, the lesser fuel it consumes.

To help reduce the drag the cars also have latest aerodynamics features and low rolling resistance tires. Also, to enhance its efficiency it is built of lightweight materials. The lighter a vehicle is the less energy it needs to propel itself forward. New hybrid cars are designed in a way to fit snugly into modern lifestyle. To the viewing public they are attractive, stylish and uniquely fashionable.

Most hybrid cars today are based on gasoline-electric power drives. PSA Peugeot Citroen, the French car maker is working on a future hybrid car with a diesel-electric power combination.

Toyota Prius is, today, the best selling hybrid on the market. Hybrid cars of other companies include, Accord and Civic by Honda; GS 450h, LS 600H L, RX 400h SUV by Lexus; Aura Green Line and Vue Green Line by Saturn; Altima by Nissan; Camry, Prius and Highlander SUV by Toyota; Escape SUV by Ford and Mariner SUV by Mercury.

Demand for hybrid cars has sharply grown over the past three years, as pump prices continue to surge and eating a considerable part of the household budget.
Hybrid cars may not be the complete solution to rising oil prices but they are very economical, as they rely more on electricity instead of gas for power. For 2006, business conditions have remained turbulent. The current crisis in Israel and Lebanon will likely have an adverse effect on oil markets given that they are very near the worlds top oil producers.
Other issues that will keep gas prices high include Chinas demand, terrorist attacks on refineries and volatility in stock markets. Is 2006 finally the right time to jump on the bandwagon for hybrid cars? For 2006, the top Japanese car makers Honda and Toyota have released an impressive line of hybrid cars that have been updated to conform with the demands of the daily driver.
The hybrid cars for 2006 promises more power behind the steering wheel but gas consumption will be comparable to a child guzzling a bad-tasting cough syrup.
Honda 2006 Accord Hybrid
The new Accord Hybrid from Honda is 4-door sedan ideal for families with 2-3 kids. This car comes in two trims and 5-speed automatic transmission. Overdrive option is standard equipment. For those that enjoy long and leisurely rides, Honda is offering a Accord Hybrid equipped with a Navigation system.
Both trims are powered by a standard V6, 3.0-liter, 253-horsepower engine. The Accord Hybrid is capable of 25-mpg in city driving and 34-mpg in highway driving.
The Honda Accord Hybrid is well suited for the highways and boasts of excellent responsiveness and outstanding acceleration.
Initial impressions
The 2006 Honda Accord Hybrid has been criticized for its disappointing fuel economy but lauded for its outstanding performance especially in fast-driving. The car battery used in the car is relatively low in power and supposed does not effectively maximize the hybrid technology unlike rival models.
Some users have also been critical over the rough automatic transmission shifting between gears and poor flawed synchronization between engine and battery.
Honda 2006 Civic Hybrid
The new Honda Civic Hybrid is a 4-door sedan ideal for small families. The vehicle comes in two trims namely the the CVT AT-PZEV w/ Navigation System and the CVT AT-PZEV
A standard I4 1.3-liter 110-horsepower hybrid engine powers the 2006 Civic Hybrid car. This model has the capability to run 49-mpg in city driving and 51-mpg in highway drives.
Initial impressions
The 2006 Civic Hybrid car is a top-notch performer especially for who are looking for the perfect driving experience. The interior has been lauded for its attractive lay-out and design. Gas consumption is exceptional, as delivers near or slightly above its specifications.
However, the 2006 Civic Hybrid has been criticized more on its ambitious despite. The digital speedometer is a nice new touch but can be distracting especially during night drives. The Civic Hybrid only comes with rear drum brakes, which is disappointing considering that the Civic has been named car of the year.
The hand brake is also placed on odd location and will be discomforting for those with large thighs. The 2006 Civic Hybrid is a drivers car and will perform best when used in the highways.
2006 Toyota Prius
Updated for 2006, the new Toyota Prius is a 4-door sedan, ideal for small families. This hybrid car only comes in one trim has a 4-Door Liftback.
The 2006 Toyota Prius is powered with by a standard I4, 1.5-liter, hybrid engine running 110-horsepower. In city driving, the Prius can achieve 60-mpg and 51-mpg in highway driving.
Initial impressions
The Prius features a spacious interior that can easily fit small families. Ideal for pedestrian drivers but those conscious with performance should stay away, as acceleration is slow. In addition, consumers have also been disappointed over the inability of the car to reach its advertised consumption and high price. For those tht want to save the world the Prius is great but look the other way if you want to save money.

Now that you’ve known the other car care basics, perhaps it’s time we take a look at the fluid essentials that are literally the life giving blood of your car.

1. Brake Fluid- Is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used in hydraulic brake applications of your car, motorcycles and trucks. This type of fluid is used to transfer force under pressure from its point of origin among hydraulic lines to the braking mechanism close to the wheels.

Most brake fluids today are composed of glycol-ether but several types with mineral oil and silicone composites are also out in the market. This type of fluid should meet stringent requirements set by organizations such as SAE and the US Department of Transportation (DOT) – hence you get ratings on labels such as SAE or DOT 3 and 4 compliance.

As a rule of thumb, brake fluid should always be replenished if the levels in its container decrease with every drive. Fluid level in the master cyclinder will drop as the linings, brake pads and shoes wear and the calipers extend further to compensate. Brake fluid level may also be low because of leaking, which can lead to loss of hydraulic pressure and the most dangerous- brake loss.

It is very important to constantly monitor your brake fluid levels to ensure safe driving and fill according to the set level. Flush and change your brake fluid every 1-2 years to further ensure reliability and take note to never mix brake fluids with different DOT ratings as this can result to poor fluid performance.

2. Power Steering – Is another type of hydraulic fluid that transmits the power steering system of cars, trucks and other modes of transportation.
This is the fluid that guards your power-steering pump and rack from wear and tear. It requires constant monitoring and refilling from time to time according to the required level in its cylinder.

A way to notice that your steering system is about to have a problem or that your power steering fluid is running low is when you turn the steering wheel and you hear whining noises. Have your car checked when this occurs to prevent serious damages to your power- steering system.

Note: There are products out in the market today that contain the combined properties of Power Steering and Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF). Use any of these products to save and be protected more.

3. Battery Fluid- Is the electrolyte fluid found inside the cells of your battery. If you are using the regular type of battery and not the maintenance free one, then you are required to refill your battery cells from time to time with electrolyte fluid.

Standard battery for cars is 12V and usually has 6 individual cells inside it. To refill, simply remove the vent caps that can either be found on top or on the sides of the battery. Check and fill the electrolyte fluid inside.

Note: There are some brands of maintenance free batteries out in the market today that can run on dual power- meaning they also have vent caps for electrolyte fluids in case their power supply run out. Although this type of battery may not come cheap, it would be best for you to use it.

4. Radiator Coolant- Is a mixture of anti-freeze fluid and water designed to protect the radiator and cooling system all year round. Using one will protect your engine from overheating. Most coolant products out in the market today come with various additives that can further help you against rust and other forms of corrosion, lubricate or increase the cooling efficiency of your cooling system.

Simply pour out the contents of your coolant to the radiator reservoir. Add water to the set level and you’re done.

For maintenance, it is very important for you to drain and flush your coolant once a year (or depending on the product recommendations) and replace it with a new one.

Note: Never mix different types of coolant together as this can lead to damage or a reduction of your car’s cooling system. Before changing to another brand, be sure to drain and flush your cooling system of the old one.
See to it that the reservoirs of these fluids are in constant levels and refill when they’re not enough. Properly maintaining them will help ensure your safety and prolong the life of your car.

Buckle up and drive safely.

Jovir Amatong
<a rel=”nofollow” onclick=”javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview(‘/outgoing/article_exit_link’);” href=”http://www.autoterminal.com”>jamatong@autoterminal.com</a>

After all you have seen, read, and heard about hybrid cars, are you truly ready to buy your new hybrid car? Have a look at this quick FAQ to help you understand the essentials in getting your very own hybrid car:

Even hybrids are not created equal. In the city, the Honda Civic Hybrid can achieve a fuel economy of 49 miles per gallon, while the Chevy Malibu Hybrid can only achieve 24 miles per gallon. That’s a fairly big difference, especially because the Malibu Hybrid, which costs $22,790 MSRP, is actually more expensive than the Civic Hybrid, which costs $22,600. So which one is better suited for you is the real question when buying one of these hybrids.

Hybrids cost more than conventional cars. Most hybrids cost about $20,000 and above, so considering a new vehicle when you only have about $18,000 would mean it probably wouldn’t be a hybrid– unless you find a real bargain. But normally, you would need at least $3,000-6,000 more than the conventional models if you wanted to purchase a hybrid. There is also a lot more you actually have to pay for when it comes to purchasing a hybrid vehicle, including optional items such as paint and upholstery pro-tectants, and warranties, which can really cost thousands more in dollars once you have added in everything you want for your new hybrid car.

Gas expenditure will be reduced. The good news is that hybrids use only half the amount of gas that conventional vehicles do use, because of its two sources of power—gas and electricity. Hence there is less need to refuel, which translates to savings on gas in the long run.

Hybrid cars are environment-friendly. With all the alarm due to the greenhouse effect of burning gasoline, hybrids are a welcome development, because they can reduce that greenhouse effect in this planet we live in. Do you believe that a hybrid car can have up to 90% less emissions than the conventional car? This results in less smog, as well as damage to the ozone layer, and ultimately, your health.

Hybrid cars allow for tax and other benefits. Hybrid cars are allowed to park at parking meters and parking meters without fees, drive in Toll lanes for free, or qualify for credits in tax. But you can get benefits for up to $3,400 only, so watch when your vehicle hits the 6,000 purchases, and you can no longer get credits.

You need some time to get used to your hybrid car. You’ll not just get a pleasant surprise when you realize the savings from your fuel consumption… you’ll also find that your engine automatically shuts off, then starts again at red lights… and even the oh, so quiet engine allows you to listen to your favorite music without needing to increase its volume.

Hybrid cars, aside from the usual features and benefits from other cars, come with the perks for you, your neighbors, and our planet earth.

Your new car’s engine compartment is as important as the smooth appearance of your exterior. Make sure to regularly maintain the engine compartment to avoid costly repairs and replacements, and be assured of a longer engine life and an excellent performing car.

Modern cars have cooling system components that are being forced to do more than the older ones. This is because of the trend to downsize car parts in order to minimize space and weight. To maintain your cooling system’s peak of efficiency, the most appropriate thing to do is to alter the coolant once every two years. Remember that anti-freeze does not wear out. Also, by altering the coolant, you are ensured that the corrosion inhibitors are fresh and doing the job they are supposed to. By maintaining your car’s cooling system, you are assured of less scale and corrosion that builds up inside the radiator when coolant is left in too long. Of course, you can also definitely avoid the high cost of radiator repair or replacement.

The brake fluid is the most important engine component. It is not a petroleum-based product; as a matter of fact, it is made up of cashew shells. They absorb moisture from the air. As a result, it minimizes braking performance. A substance also builds up over a period of time. In effect, this blocks the valves inside ABS units. The end result is no less than costly repairs or replacement. This blocking substance also causes calipers and wheel cylinders to leak. Thus, it results in repairs or replacement. So better flush the brake fluid and have it refilled every two years or 60,000 miles. Power steering fluid also needs to be flushed and refilled once every two years or 60,000 miles.

Another fluid, the transmission fluid, requires regular replacement so that it is kept in a tip top shape. Lack of maintenance is the main cause of transmission failures. To prevent costly repair and replacement, make you work done regularly.

Air and fuel filters prevent dirt from your engine. But their function does not mean they do not require cleaning anymore. Junky air and fuel filters result to several driving problems such as hesitation and rough idle stem. To avoid problems like those, replace the filter every 15,000 miles. The carbon canister filter, which is a very vital component of the emission control system and filters the in coming air, should be replaced. The emission controls are integral parts of modern engine management system. Keep in mind that a blocked canister filter will also result to drivability problems.

A PVC filter is only common to some cars. It is also known as a breather element. The air for the PCV system is filtered by this engine part. The dirt from the engine crankcase is also kept out by this PVC filter. It needs to be replaced at 15,000 mile intervals.

While checking your PCV filter, also check the PCV valve and replace it regularly. When a new PCV filter is installed, a new PCV valve must also be installed.

Also include the oxygen sensor in maintenance. It measures the proportion of oxygen (O2) in the gas or liquid being analyzed. Usually made with zirconium ceramic bulb coated on both sides with a thin layer of platinum, this sensing element comes in both heated and unheated forms. Its main task is to measure the performance of internal combustion engines in automobiles and other modes of transportation. If you see any damage in your Dodge car’s Dodge oxygen sensor, consult the owner’s manual to prevent further vehicle damage.

The spark plugs together with the other ignition parts are engine components have become much more reliable since the age of high technology began. Most modern engines use a DIS or Direct Ignition System. This system mounts one ignition coil on each spark plug. This minimizes the need of a distributor. Also, the PCM controls the firing of each coil.

Nonetheless, distributors still exist in some engines. On engines that still use a distributor, replace the distributor cap, distributor rotor and ignition wires every 30,000 miles.

On a regular basis, replace the spark plugs. In the auto shops are platinum plugs, split fire plugs, multi-electrode plugs, red ones, green ones and blue ones. But you must only opt for the recommended one of your manufacturer. Usually, spark plug information is located on the engine decal under the hood.

The most crucial part of the engine is the timing belt. It is so crucial that it needs to be replaced before it breaks. If your vehicle has an engine whose valves and pistons are located in the same place in the combustion chamber at different times, it implies engine damage. If your car uses a non-interference engine, you might experience a car breakdown. So to avoid this, replace the timing belt every 60,000 miles.

Each engine part is essential for your engine, in particular, and your car, in general. Never take even one part for granted. This is to avoid untoward car breakdown. Moreover, the engine is the one that makes you car work. Your new car’s engine compartment is must at all times work properly because that is the heart of your vehicle. Well maintained engine parts will give you your desired car performance.