(ARA) – As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the unfavorable road conditions to come. Addressing a few key issues before winter arrives can save you significant hassle and cost. To protect one of your most valuable investments, follow these tips to shield your vehicle from the elements and avoid winter-related damages.

Protect your paint

The majority of drivers are aware of at least one scratch or chip in their vehicles’ paint. Unfortunately, many will not repair these small damages before they rust and become serious issues. A scratch can rust in just 30 days, and snow, ice and freezing temperatures can accelerate and intensify the damage.

Luckily, you can easily avoid a costly repair and restore your vehicle to its original finish with Dupli-Color’s Scratch Fix 2in1. This affordable, easy-to-use touch-up paint offers two applicators – a roller ball for small scratches and a taper brush for larger scratches. As simple as painting your nails, you can repair and protect any exposed metal in minutes, and Dupli-Color’s exact-match colors guarantee a seamless finish. Right now, for each person who finds their vehicle’s color code and enters it online, Dupli-Color will donate $1 to Meals On Wheels for their “Find Your Color, Help Another” initiative.

Vision

Winter weather can reduce visibility, so a clear windshield is extremely important to prevent accident damage. To make certain you have an unobstructed view of the road at all times, examine the defroster system and windshield wipers. Replace any old or cracked blades, and don’t forget your rear wiper. If you live in an area that sees heavy winter precipitation, consider rubber winter blades to avoid ice build-up and provide optimal clearing. Stock up on winter windshield fluid and keep a bottle of de-icing spray in your car to reduce the need to scrape. Check all vehicle lights to make sure your night vision is equally clear, and replace any dim or dead bulbs.

Tires

One of the most essential aspects of vehicle winterization is making sure you have a safe grip on the road. Quality tires help keep your vehicle secure, especially in slippery rain or snow conditions, and inadequate tires will not be effective. Inspect your tire tread and pressure (an auto shop can do this for you) and replace worn tires for optimal traction in snow and ice. If you’ve not done so recently, make sure to rotate your tires and have your brakes checked. If you live in a snow-prone or rural area, you might consider purchasing snow tires and/or chains to get through the tough conditions.

Emergency kit

In the case that something does go wrong this winter and you are stranded, make sure to keep an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle at all times. Include a flashlight and batteries, road flares, a heavy blanket, jumper cables, bottled water and nutrition bars. Keep a charged cell phone with you at all times and check weather conditions before traveling extended distances or into rural areas. You may also benefit from roadside service, particularly if you are traveling alone or long distances.

With a little preparation, your vehicle will be ready for winter and you can avoid any unnecessary issues. Use these tips to make sure your travels are safe, comfortable and without issue this season.

In Blast’s “Stuff for Your Car” series, you heard me go on about all sorts of maintenance issues and simple upgrades that you can do to keep your car going. We’ve replaced filters, added tints, and even changed the wheels and tires, but today we need to discuss something even more important — keeping all those parts clean and shiny.

And the best part about this article is that you don’t just have to hear me rant about the products I use to keep my car looking good. We are going to give some away — so keep reading.

People can generally be divided into two groups: those who wash their cars, and those who bring their car to the car wash. And, really, the group that brings their car somewhere to be washed can further be divided between the gas station quick wash and the $30 professional “detailer.”

Either way, let me attempt to convince you to get the hose out yourself and take care of business.

Washing your car is simple enough. Use your favorite soap, diluted with water, in a five gallon bucket. Wash, rinse, repeat. Not much of a learning curve.

Once you finish the basic wash, however, you are usually left with clean but dingy tires and a still-dusty interior. We can fix that, without spending $30 every few weeks at the detailer.

I use Armor All products, because you can buy several different products and know that you’re using the same brand throughout your car. When it comes to wheels and tires, I also know that it will work.

Start with the Armor All Extreme Wheel and Tire Cleaner. It looks like a bottle of Windex, only it’s orange. Spray liberally across the tire and wheel, getting all the grooves and nooks. Let it sit for a minute and then use a cotton rag (rags are better than paper towels for the lint factor) to wipe each wheel clean. This product is especially good for chrome or colored rims. My black rims shine up nicely every time.

Next use the Armor All Tire Foam. People always think getting that super-black look from your tires requires a lot of work. Just shake up the can, spray liberally around your tire, and let it sit for a few minutes until the tire is perfectly shiny.

Once inside your car, use a shop vacuum to get all the dust and loose change out. Remove your floor mats, shake them out, and vacuum them separately.

Then there are two more Armor All products I recommend. The simply stated Armor All Original Protectant tends to work like a combination furniture polish and duster. Spray it on a cotton rag and wipe your interior surfaces — steering wheel, dash, stereo, shifter, handles, vents, etc. Get all that caked up dust and grime off.

Then clean your glass. While I like Windex for inside my house, for the car I lean toward the car guys and Armor All. The Armor All Auto Glass Cleaner is preferred by me, especially with my after-market tints. Paper towels are also fine here. Wipe in a circular motion, turning the towel often.

Now you’re done. You’ve burned a few calories, maybe gotten some sun, and you have not spent ridiculous sums of money at a car wash.

If you’re interested in getting your hands dirty — but your car clean — then share your dirtiest car memory with Blast. The best commenter will win an Armor All Ultimate Car Lovers Gift Pack, which includes everything I mentioned here, plus a bottle of Ultra Shine car wash, Armor All Cleaning Wipes, and a wash mitt and microfiber polish towel. Happy commenting!

Armor All is footing the bill for this article and provided the products for the giveaway, but the opinions are my own.

Crossovers continue to remain a popular option for providing the “higher-stance-on-the-road-feel”, with car like interiors and that extra space for random weekend runs that require a bit more space than a standard trunk. The second generation Outlander received an overdue facelift and interior redesign with the 2010 model year to make it not only a good looking CUV but with the features to fit right in with the more popular choices of it the class.

The Mitsubishi Outlander is offered in six trims; ES, SE, SE AWD, XLS 2wd V6, and the one we tested, GT S-AWD. Our vehicle stickered at $30275, but pricing starts at $21995. Each Outlander comes with a 5 year, 60k miles, bumper-bumper warranty with 5 years unlimited roadside assistance and a 10 year 100k power train warranty. Four star rollover crash rating from the NHTSA, dual front and side mounted airbags, and Hill Start assist (to name a few safety features), ensure you will be safe traveling in any condition the weather may present. Our GT S-AWD was powered by a 3.0-230hp V6 with 215 lb ft and a 6-speed automatic transmission that manages 0-60 in less than 8 seconds for those who may feel the need to be off the line first with 23mpg in the city and 28mpg on the highway. The v6 was paired with the idiot proof AWD system that provided road gripping capabilities during one of our daily Florida monsoons (and would make driving in much nastier weather less stressful). Handling was not shabby with the stiffer characteristics one would expect from a larger SUV yet with car like comforts. The only room from improvement on the Outlander would be the tire noise that occurred at higher speeds due the Goodyear’s paired with the suspension that just didn’t mesh well together. The Outlander GT S-AWD has the same front fascia as the current Mitsubishi line up with the oversized wide mouth grill, sleek headlights paired with Xenon lights, chrome accents and rear LED lights making for a good looking CUV compared to other boxy options in its class.

Our Outlander GT S-AWD’s offered a sporty black cloth interior with aluminum accents that gave just enough of a polished look to really contrast with the massive plastic amounts most interiors have. The aluminum is carried to the pedals but an optional interior sport package ($295) would provide a matching shifter knob and brake handle, which I think would make more sense to be included as part of the GT trim line to provide continuity rather than as an option. Seating provided comfort to both front and second seats however the lack of a driver front seat was somewhat disappointing in this price point, but is featured along with heated front seats in the Touring package ($2700). Both front and second row provide firm yet comfortable seating, more than expected leg room with second row to seat two adults in comfort. The third row rear seat produced immediate excitement from my little guys; however if you are over four feet, the excitement will be lacking. One negative aspect to the third row is the lack of air vents in the rear seating area, so air flow isn’t great. And the cheap look and feel to the third row seat left something to be desired. Cargo space is not an issue, even with the third row in use. There is more than enough room behind the seat due to the deep cargo area, which offers access with either just the rear hatch lifted, or for larger items, there is a drop-down tailgate. The only cargo issues were my inability to completely stow the third row flush, despite my numerous attempts by reading their step-by-step picture directions. The second row seats didn’t compact as much as they should when folded either, so maximum cargo space was compromised. But overall, space in general is not an issue – it’s plentiful.

Along with basic standard equipment, there were extras that ranged from heated exterior mirrors, rain sensing wipers, Fast Key entry, Sporttronic Paddle Shifters and a radio that came equipped with an AM/FM/6CD/MP3 in-dash audio system, with six speakers and a large yet basic display. Our Outlander GT S-AWD came with the optional Sun and Sound package ($1700) that provided us with a power glass sunroof, Sirius radio and the best part, a 710W Rockford Fosgate Punch premium sound system with 9 speakers and a 10-in subwoofer – to which I indulged my love for Led Zeppelin on numerous occasions with much satisfaction (and also to help drown out the noise from the tires at higher speeds). Standard on every Outlander is the Fuse Handsfree Link System with steering mounted controls, but much like the folding of the rear seats, the syncing to the Bluetooth provided to be an eyelash pulling process. In other words, I just gave up on syncing my Droid after numerous attempts. A simpler process would not only please those like me who find technology at times to be more of a burden then a necessity, but also those who simply lack patience. The only other option available is Navigation ($2000) that provides a rear camera, including a 40 gig hard-drive, music server, real-time traffic and an auxiliary input.

Despite the road noise that could be an easy manufacture fix and the unappealing construction of the third row seat (also another easy fix); the Outlander GT S-AWD determined this is one CUV that shouldn’t be looked over.  You just may “go where you haven’t gone before” behind the wheel of this competitive option.

High development costs, implementation hurdles -- and competition from electric and hybrid-electric vehicles -- have kept hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) out of the mainstream for now, but FCVs aren't dead in the water yet and research and development continues in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere. Pictured: The Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell car. (Media credit/Raymond Chen via Flickr)

It is true that just a few years ago everyone was talking hydrogen fuel cells as the future of petroleum-free automotive transport. Fuel cell cars can run on infinitely renewable hydrogen gas and emit no harmful tailpipe emissions whatsoever. A 2005 Scientific American article bullishly reported that car company executives “foresee no better option to the hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle in the long run.” Likewise, the International Energy Agency (IEA) suggested, also in 2005, that some 30 percent of the global stock of vehicles—700 million cars and trucks—could be powered by hydrogen fuel cells by 2050.

But high development costs and implementation hurdles have kept fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) out of the mainstream for now. And in the face of competition from a new crop of all-electric and hybrid-electric vehicles lately, some analysts wonder whether the fuel cell’s future is as bright as once thought.

That’s not to say the technology isn’t impressive, and still potentially very promising. The concept was first developed by NASA some five decades ago for use in space travel and has since been implemented in a wide range of other mobile and stationary power applications. In an FCV, a stack of fuel cells under the hood converts hydrogen stored on-board with oxygen in the air to make electricity that propels the drive train. While automakers have been able to make fuel cells small enough to fit in and power a conventional size car or truck, the price per unit is high due to the need to incorporate expensive, cutting edge components. And the lack of widespread demand precludes cost-saving mass production. Also, the lack of hydrogen refueling stations around the country limits the practicality of driving a fuel cell vehicle.

According to Richard Gilbert, co-author of the book, Transport Revolutions: Moving People and Freight without Oil, another big issue for hydrogen-powered fuel cells is their energy inefficiency. Creating hydrogen gas by splitting water molecules via electrolysis ends up using up about half of the energy it creates. Another half of the resulting energy is taken up by the conversion of hydrogen back into electricity within fuel cells. “This means that only a quarter of the initially available energy reaches the electric motor,” reports Gilbert. (Making hydrogen by reforming natural gas is also highly inefficient and relies on a fossil fuel from the get-go.) Such losses in conversion don’t stack up well against, for instance, recharging an electric vehicle (EV) like the Nissan Leaf or Chevy Volt from a wall socket—especially if the electricity can be initially generated from a renewable source like wind or solar.

But FCVs aren’t dead in the water yet. A few dozen Californians are already driving one of Honda’s FCX Clarity fuel cell cars. A $600/month lease payment entitles qualifying drivers to not only collision coverage, maintenance and roadside assistance but also hydrogen fuel, available via a handful of “fast-fill” hydrogen refueling stations. General Motors is part of an effort to test FCVs and implement a viable hydrogen refueling infrastructure in Hawaii, currently one of the most fossil fuel dependent states in the U.S. The Hawaii Hydrogen Initiative aims to bring upwards of 20 hydrogen refueling stations to Hawaii by 2015. Other efforts are underway in the U.S., Europe and elsewhere.

CONTACTS: IEA, www.iea.org; Honda FCX Clarity, www.automobiles.honda.com/fcx-clarity.

EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E – The Environmental Magazine (www.emagazine.com). Send questions to: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Subscribe: www.emagazine.com/subscribe. Free Trial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial.

Will Barack Obama's call for one million electric vehicles on American roads by 2015 be realized? Some predict there could be as many as 14 million on the road by 2020. Either way we should soon be seeing many more signs like this one. (Quinn Dombrowski via Flickr)

“We can break our dependence on oil … and become the first country to have one million electric vehicles on the road by 2015,” President Obama said in his January 2011 State of the Union address. “The future is ours to win.”

It’s difficult to say how likely such an arbitrary goal might be, but green leaders and others are optimistic. The waiting list for the new electric Nissan Leaf, rolling off the factory floor as we speak, is some 20,000 Americans long. The auto industry expects similar demand for other new electric and plug-in hybrid cars hitting U.S. roads this year and next from General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Mitsubishi and others.

Of course, the Obama administration realizes that attaining such a goal will be impossible without help from the federal government. To that end, consumers and businesses can get tax credits worth up to $7,500 on the purchase of each new electric vehicle (EV). The feds have also committed $2.4 billion for research and development into improving EV batteries, and another $115 million for the installation of EV charging infrastructure in 16 different metro areas around the country—not to mention some $300 million in clean cities grants to dozens of American communities working to reduce petroleum use, and the $25 billion being doled out to help U.S. automakers retool. So much federal involvement has helped spur state governments and private industry to make significant investments in the EV sector as well.

But even with all this funding, a million EVs on the road by 2015 may still be just a pipe dream. James Sweeney of Stanford University’s Precourt Energy Efficiency Center calls the plan “very aggressive.” He reasons that it took over a decade for hybrids—which “did not require any difference in infrastructure and had as great a range as conventional vehicles, neither of which is likely to be the case with electric vehicles”—to capture three percent of the U.S. passenger car and light truck market. EVs would have to achieve the same market share in just four years if Obama’s goal is to be realized. “Even with a large subsidy, it would be very hard to move to such a large market share that quickly,” Sweeney concludes.

The Electrification Coalition, an organization of pro-EV business leaders from companies including Nissan, Federal Express, Coda Automotive and Coulomb Technologies, would take issue with that conclusion, however. The group’s November 2009 study, dubbed the Electrification Roadmap, predicted that as many as 14 million EVs could be on American roads by 2020 if lawmakers create “electrification ecosystems” in several major U.S. cities simultaneously. If the group is anywhere near the mark, reaching Obama’s goal of a million EVs by 2015 should be a no-brainer. The group also says that EVs could account for as many as 75 percent of all miles driven by light duty vehicles in the U.S. by 2040.

Now if only we could clean up our supply of electricity too, then we really might be onto something good for the planet…

 Volkswagen revealed the all-new Passat at the Detroit Auto Show today as part of their growth plan for the U.S. market. The Passat may have been designed in Germany but will be manufactured at Volkswagen’s environmental conscience plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  The new Passat and the all-new Jetta are part of the divine plan Volkswagen has to significantly increase market share in the United States.

The new Passat is larger, and will offer features that American drivers favor and will be the only mid-size German engineered automobile with a price point starting at around $20,000 when it arrives later this year. Final pricing will be released this spring. The Passat will be available with three trim levels, S SE and SEL, with a total of 16 equipment levels and three engine choices:

2.5L five cylinder engine (170 hp/177 lb.-ft.), which is being offered in the Passat for the first time, will be mated to a standard 5 speed manual transmission or may be paired with a 6-speed automatic.

2.0L TDI Clean Diesel (140 hp/236 lb.-ft.) has the power of a six cylinder gasoline engine and the fuel economy of a hybrid. The Passat TDI is expected to deliver 43 miles per gallon on the highway, with a range of approximately 800 miles. Volkswagen’s TDI clean diesel engines, which come with a NOx storage catalytic converter, are among the cleanest engines in the world, fulfilling emissions requirements in all 50 states with an optional 6-speed DSG transmission.

 3.6 liter VR6 (280 hp/258 lb.-ft.) makes the new Passat a top-flight sport sedan. It offers power and luxury-class driving comfort, with European-type restraint in its fuel consumption — estimated at 28 mpg on the highway.

 Volkswagen hopes to set new records for safety, driving performance and environmental responsibility with the new Passat.

The first Ford Transit Connect Taxi in the United States will embark on its first fare tomorrow, Dec. 10. Boston Cab Dispatch received the keys to the Transit Connect Taxi last week at the New England International Auto Show and their CEO Brett Barenholtz is “eager to put it into service”.

 In April, the Licensing Division of the Boston Police Department approved Transit Connect for taxi use, making Boston the first city in the country to do so. To be approved, the vehicle had to meet basic size requirements for passenger headroom, legroom and cargo space. “Transit Connect fits the bill,” said Mark Cohen, Licensing Division director. “The size, shape and configuration of this unique vehicle make it comfortable for both driver and passengers”.

The Transit Connect Taxi package adds comfort for the passenger with a repositioned second-row seat for more legroom, grab handles and rear air conditioning/heat vent with passenger controls. For the taxi driver, new features include rear view camera and back-up sensor, heavy-duty battery and a wiring block connector to power upfitted accessories.  The taxi was outfitted by Creative Mobile Technologies of Long Island City, N.Y., which provided the equipment necessary for payment processing and passenger information systems in the taxi, including an 8.4-inch electronic infotainment and navigation screen that shows cab fares, news, weather, sports scores and stock ticker. The Transit will provide taxi companies up to a 30 percent fuel improvement in fuel economy verses traditional V-8 powered sedan-based taxis with the 2.0 I-4 engine that will receive 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Furthermore, Transit Connect Taxi is available with an engine preparation package for conversion to compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied propane gas (LPG). 

“We’re excited to see Transit Connect Taxi in service in Boston,” said Kevin Koswick, director of Ford’s North American Fleet Operations.

Wondering what to get your favorite motor head this year or have a new driver in the house that won’t be close to home for your help? Here are a couple products that stood out this year as gifts that can be suited for anyone who drives or loves their automobile.

Joby: Gorillatorch Blade $59.95

The Gorillatorch Blade is the perfect flashlight to carry in your trunk for those roadside emergencies. The Blade comes equipped with a 130-Lumen high-efficiency long-lasting CREE LED, lithium-ion battery, that is recharged by either USB or AC with both adapters included, provide hours of productive, uninterrupted work. Spot and flood settings make Blade perfect for detailed tasks or illuminating a large space with a smooth 360-degree pan and 180-degree tilt allows precise illumination of the most tough-to-reach spaces. The Modular flashlight is removable from the stand to accommodate more tactical applications. Flexible, legs enable users to secure the Blade to any surface which is perfect when you don’t have an extra pair of hands around to assist in any situation.

Lemur Monitors: EconoDriver $69.95

Driving feedback accessory displays real-time fuel consumption to help you drive greener and save money. Program in the current cost of gas and it will indicate how much money you are wasting by accelerating and braking too quickly or idling too often. Installs within minutes and requires no additional tools or computer connection by simply plugging the sensor into your vehicle’s Data Port which then wirelessly relays the pertinent info to the display on the pocket-sized key fob.

PLX Devices: Kiwi Bluetooth $99.95 ($149.95 for iPhone/iPad)

Kiwi Bluetooth turns your mobile device into a powerful automotive monitoring tool. Works with your Droid, iPhone, iPad, or iTouch via the Wi-Fi Signal. Features include: Check Engine scan tool, MPG Gauges, Engine Sensors, Real time Dyno, Data Log-ging, GPS Tracking and Skid Pad. Easily installs via your car’s OBDII plug located underneath your steering column. Downloadable apps available on iTunes include Rev, Dash Command and Fuzzy Car.

AAA 121-Piece Road Trip First Aid Kit $29.99

Accidents do happen while in the car, from slamming your nail in the door, bumping your head on the way out of the backseat or stepping on a green army man left over from one of your delightful little people. The AAA road trip first aid kit has a durable hard shell design. Included in the kit are 121 pieces from Band-Aids to alcohol prep pads. A clear pocket design that is light weight and compact perfect for car, home or outdoors.

Michelin 12279 Digital Programmable Tire Gauge $29.95

The Michelin Digital Programmable Tire Gauge just might be idiot proof. It can be programmed to remember your front and rear tire pressure on its easy to read digital screen. The 0.1 PSI resolution provides accurate inflation. Easy to hold with a rubberized soft grip and die cast rugged housing for in case you drop it and a storage pouch to stash in your trunk or glove compartment.

Campbell Hausfeld 12 Volt Digital Tire Inflation System $94.99

Flat tires are just about as much fun as pulling gum out of your hair. If you haven’t splurged on never flat’s or lack the muscle to change your own tire, never fear. By keeping this trusty device in your trunk the days of being stranded or climbing under your SUV to retrieve a filthy tire are over. This inflator is ideal for inflating car, minivan, motorcycle and bike tires, as well as sports balls. Just connect it to your tire stem, dial in your desired pressure and push to start inflating. Unit automatically shuts off when it reaches your desired pressure. Plus, it comes with the accessories you need to get started. The bright digital gauge is easy to read, and you can monitor progress as the unit reaches your desired tire pressure all with a handy light for those night time fiascos.

3M Headlight Lens Restoration System $19.99

What do 2.8 million accidents, 23,000 fatal crashes and 2,300 pedestrian deaths each year, according to the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council have in common? A driver’s limited visibility. Compared to having headlight lenses commercially repaired for approximately $75-$150 or replaced for up to $1,500, the 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System costs a fraction of that price, and the entire process takes under an hour, depending on the extent of the damage by removing hazy, dull appearances. Utilize the extra muscle from a common household drill to attach to the polishing pads and you have the ability to restore two headlight lenses in your own garage.

The Absorber Synthetic Drying Chamois $14.99

Not a leather chamois nor a terry cloth towel but the Absorber just may be the best drying tool you have ever owned that is machine washable too. Made of a unique material called PVA (poly vinyl alcohol) nothing dries faster or easier. The Absorber’s one of a kind lint free, chemical resistant, sponge-like structure give the Absorber its super drying ability.

Schumacher SpeedCharge Battery Charger $63.99

Nothing is more of an inconvenience than a dead battery even with roadside assistance on your side. Carry one of these around in your trunk, and occasionally charge to prevent things like this from happening. The Schumacher SC-600A SpeedCharge is a fully automatic battery charger that uses advanced technology to charge up to twice as fast as conventional chargers. It offers 6-, 4-, and 2-amp charging modes to efficiently charge and maintain connected batteries. The 50-amp clamps are compatible with both top and side-mounted battery posts. It has an easy-to-read LED indicators show battery charge status at a glance. 50 amp clamps for top and side-mounted battery posts. The fully automatic system is able to charge motorcycles, ATV’s, snowmobiles, lawn tractors, trucks, and cars. Random acts of kindness just might follow from owning this device.

Mothers 07240 California Gold Clay Bar Paint Saving System $24.99

Mothers California Gold Clay Bar system is created to remove the particulate debris such as embedded grains of metal, tree sap, airborne environmental deposits (such as the acid rain spots), paint overspray and contaminants that washing and polishing can’t remove. Regular use provides a long last benefit to your cars paint when used before waxing. The kit includes 2 clay bars, Showtime Instant Detailer, and Microfiber towel.

The idea of either of my children driving makes my head spin but the Lemur Monitors SafeDriver would rock when that day comes. SafeDriver installed easily in my vehicles data port which then wirelessly relayed the info to the display on the pocket-sized key fob.  I can say now my readings were pretty lame due to the fact I’m in my mom driving mode a majority of the time not allowing SafeDriver to pick up much in the week long test but I could see where it could cause a few gray hairs or even possible car privileges being revoked by displaying maximum speed, distance traveled, and any sudden braking. The only concern I have is that it is easily unplugged and key fob reset by just entering a pin so you run the risk of errors erased to delete the miles reflecting a midnight cruise across town, 37 brake checks in a 10 mile radius or a lead foot like I had back then. In order for SafeDriver to be effective, I wouldn’t even say it was in the vehicle and hide the remote portion somewhere unless of course you have a very responsible teenager without the slightest bit of devious behavior in the back of their mind. What they don’t know can’t hurt them but you could end up saving their life by noticing undesirable driving habits or at least a brake job which isn’t cheap these days.  I also thought about if I actually owned a car that I cared about, I wouldn’t think twice about installing it if a friend were to borrow the vehicle.  

For peace of mind and a great way to encourage better driving, Lemur’s SafeDriver can be purchased at Brookstone and The Sharper Image for $69.95.

Whenever I see either:

BMW Gran Turismo

or

Honda Accord Crosstour

I always think….

AMC  Wagon

Just saying….

Cadillac announced that it will be recalling more than 20,000 CTS and CTS-V models due to replace a glove compartment box that could lead to leg injuries to the passenger in a crash. GM states that recall involves nearly 5,000 all-wheel drive 2009 Cadillac CTS and CTS-V models, and more than 15,000 vehicles from the 2010 model year.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) concluded that passengers not wearing their seatbelt could strike the glove box door and suffer leg injuries in a crash. Dealers will replace the glove compartment assembly at no charge.

 Owners can contact Cadillac directly or make an appointment at their local dealer to have the issue resolved.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Last year appears to have been the stumble that forced a slice of humble pie to Chrysler.  It has been 16 months since emerging from Chapter 11, and Chrysler has been so quiet that you might have thought they had all but given up. 

At a recent Chrysler dealer show attended by more than 75 percent of the 2,314 U.S. dealers, Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Chrysler LLC, spoke of the future, of the past and of lessons learned at the first show since 2007.

"What is ultimately needed is a reconnection to the heart of the market, of the brands to their customers" Said Marchionne. He graciously thanked Chrysler dealers who have "endured the hardship and uncertainty of the last 18 months" without the aid of forecasts or lengthy power point presentations that paint an unknown future.

Sergio Marchionne, unbeknown to many other than a hot head in the business world, declares himself a man of the industry in his black pants and sweaters, engaged with a team of gifted individuals in the rebuilding of Chrysler who seeks to restore credibility and confidence in a company whose past economic failures are still too fresh in the public mind and who does not have all the answers but is "trying to reverse what appeared to be an inevitable fatal tailspin". Some have said that Chrysler probably wishes to pretend that 2009 never happened but they would not have been able to recognize the past as misses, failures and their inability to be fair. "Chrysler needs to embrace the challenge of the new and see the future as a huge opportunity as Fiat did six years ago."

Ah yes, Fiat. The nominated manufacture President Obama deemed as the acceptable group to remake Chrysler. "Fiat has the privilege of collaborating in the rebirth of the U. S. auto industry, and we are particularly proud of this" said Marchionne. Fiat was saved when everyone had an opinion as to what should become of the brand. With no government bailouts accepted, Fiat managed to deliver $5 billion in trading profit in 2008; the highest ever their history.

So what does a 111-year Old Italian company have that Chrysler needs? Let’s start with the fact that by 2014 more than half of the Chryslers’ will be built on Fiat derived platforms and over 40% will be fitted with power trains that are either Fiat power trains or benefit from Fiat technology that will save Chrysler significant time in development, testing not to mention billions of dollars in investment. Fiat also promises by 2014 combined with Chrysler to ability to produce 6 million vehicles, which is critical as a global player. Joining of the two organizations will allow them to optimize the allocation of capital, leverage potential distribution networks, and utilize technical know-how that will allow for a full product range in both small and large segments. This joint effort will allow Chrysler to stay ahead with Fiat’s advanced fuel-saving technologies which will in turn provide a significant advantage in meeting future regulatory requirements.

As with any restructuring, the new Chrysler is built on Fiat’s five core principles:

• Merit above mere knowledge or rank.
• Leadership of change and of people above position.
• The search for excellence above mediocrity.
• A desire to engage in competition above egocentricity and insularity.
• Reliability and accountability above idle promises.

What do those cardinal rules that Fiat and now Chrysler live by mean to you? It means everything at Chrysler has changed. Everything.

The acknowledgment of their customer complaints over the years have finally been addressed, shoddy workmanship will no longer been tolerated. Chrysler made their case with the totally redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee which they promise addresses every single complaint ever made about a Chrysler product, braking, steering, noise levels, interiors, right down to the transmission. Chrysler did not restrict any capital when designing these competitive products. An 8-speed-rear-wheel-drive transmission will be available mid 2011 followed by a 9-speed-front-wheel-drive transmission both of which are all-wheel drive and hybrid capable. 16 all-new or refreshed vehicles that make up 75% of Chrysler including the 2011 Chrysler 200, Chrysler Town & Country, the North America-bound Fiat 500 Sport and Jeep Patriot have been changed to present an exciting future all within the past 16 months that do not dwell on their not so fabulous past.

Chrysler promises to deliver the products the dealers were shown, to execute plans at competitive quality levels with adequate marketing support in exchange for commitment to deliver grown objectives, to comply to dealer standards, to invest in our brands, to adopt commercial practices that treat our products and customers with the dignity they deserve. This plan is "simple, straight and uncomplicated" says Marchionne.

Surprisingly Chrysler is in great financial shape. They will break even in 2010, increase operating profit to $5 billion by 2014 to double global sales to 2.8 million total units and generate revenues of $65-70 billion. They intend to pay back every single penny borrowed.

This crisis has been a learning experience to say the least for Chrysler with three major lessons learned. The first, problems denied and solutions delayed will result in a painful, costly day of reckoning. Second, every crisis provides an opportunity to change and improve. Last, the right people count more than the right process. Maybe we could all apply those lessons to our own personal crisis and not just an automotive one?

As describing the rebirth of Fiat, Marchionne stated the point of the story was success is never permanent and that you must earn it every day.

Come on Chrysler, you know we’re waiting.

In order to satisfy the American sports car enthusiast, Audi announced that the 360-horsepower TT RS coupe is scheduled to arrive in U.S. dealerships by the third quarter of 2011.

The introduction of the Audi TT RS to the U.S. market has been under consideration for several months. To gauge consumer passion for the high-performance car, Audi launched an innovative survey on its Facebook tab. After more than 11,500 fans expressed their enthusiasm for the Audi TT RS in just one month, and the American automotive media praised its dynamics, Audi executives concluded the car’s time had come.

"With performance and agility rooted in Audi motorsports success, the TT RS is truly an emotional sports car," explained Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "That emotion became abundantly clear as we explored interest across the country."

Only the coupe version will be available with Audi yet to determine pricing for the TT RS headed for America as they continue to define features and options only available to U.S consumers. The American version will share the same key performance attributes of the models sold in Europe and elsewhere. The car will be equipped with the same 2.5 liter TFSI 5-cylinder engine that produces 360-horsepower with 333 lb-ft of torque. The TT RS is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, quattro all-wheel drive for an impressive 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds.

(ARA) – It’s that time of year – summer car-buying season is in full swing. Many dealers are offering great incentives to move cars off their lots to make room for the arrival of new models in the fall. Since buying a car is one of the biggest investments many of us make, it is important to be prepared so you can drive off the lot confident in the purchasing decision you’ve made.

Despite the economic hardships the auto industry has faced, financing a vehicle is still possible. Once you’ve researched reviews and valuations, and decided on the vehicle you want to buy, consider these four tips from Experian Automotive:

1. Check your credit score

Knowing where your credit history falls in the range of risk is more important now than ever before. Auto lenders use scoring models to help predict whether or not you could become delinquent on your auto loan payments. An auto lender typically receives a credit score that emphasizes your current and previous vehicle payment history. While they may use different credit scores for potential buyers than traditional lenders do, that simply means you shouldn’t focus on the number, but on your level of risk and what in your credit history most influenced that risk. Knowing where your credit history falls in the range of risk can help you anticipate the interest rates you may qualify for and the amount of the down payment you will need to make. Consequently, knowing where you stand may give you the leverage you need to negotiate for better rates.

2. Know how much you can afford to spend on a down payment

It’s important to know how much you can afford to spend on a down payment before you go to the dealer and ask for the keys. If you are able to offer a solid down payment on a car, you will be in a better position to negotiate the final sale price of the vehicle as well as the terms of your loan. And the lower your credit score, the larger the down payment you may be required to make. Being aware of how much cash you have to put down on a car can empower you to secure an even better deal and it can also help you realize what type of car you can truly afford.

3. Research loan options on your own

It’s a good idea to get pre-qualified for an auto loan before visiting an auto dealer. Knowing what loan options you have may influence the dealer to beat an offer from your bank with a better interest rate and lower monthly payments. Before heading to the dealership, check with your bank or credit union to see what loan rates are available.

4. Request your vehicle history report

If you decide to buy a used car or truck, you should always have a licensed mechanic physically inspect the vehicle. You should also conduct your own inspection of the vehicle’s past by requesting a vehicle history report from your dealer or pulling a report yourself at AutoCheck.com. The report will provide you with all reported events for that vehicle (odometer readings, vehicle registrations, title transfers, accident damage, emissions inspections) in addition to any issues with the vehicle’s title, any unexpected odometer readings, whether the vehicle was ever a rental or used as a service vehicle, and your AutoCheck score. This score is a tool that enables you to understand a vehicle’s past quickly and easily, compare it to other vehicles, and lower the risk of buying a vehicle with undetected problems.

Buying a car is an exciting time in everyone’s life, so before you rush out to the dealership, make sure you are properly prepared to get the most bang for your buck. Educating yourself on your financial standing as well as the current auto loan market and the history of the car you want to buy will help you drive off the lot with the knowledge that you made a sound investment.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

The ability to articulate automobiles to sound fresh, exciting and not reworded has been a real struggle lately. But stumbling across a new automobile that I know nothing about turned into a blessing in disguise that is best described with the simplest of adjectives. With no pre-formed opinion, an honest look at Suzuki’s new Kizashi came easy.

If you think of Suzuki, you would think of their motorcycles being present contenders, basing this idea on what they produced in the 1980s. Suzuki was fully responsible for the concept, design and execution of the Kizashi after a joint effort on the former Verona didn’t go over well. Suzuki, like most manufacturers, is trying to reinvent their brand by taking the on the challenge without any assistance. Years of knowledge and dare I say failed attempts at actually making it in the American auto market, Suzuki realized this is the time to improve quality with the entire brand. Looking cheap does not fit into the equation.

The exterior of the Kizashi had me saying that it resembled a little of one car or another but really it’s just itself. The styling is nonchalant with hey-look-at-me-if-you-want-because-I-don’t-stand-out-but-yet-I-don’t-blend-in-either-approach. A large open grill with the massive Suzuki S placed in the center, wide headlights, sporty stance, surprisingly large fenders and a sleek rear with the chrome trim exhaust pieces molded nicely into the rear bumper and the Kizashi becomes quite the sassy sedan.

Suzuki’s ultimate focus on safety has not been pushed to the side either. Five star ratings in all 4 crash categories, a total of eight airbags that wrap the car in protection, a rigid body structure with enforcements where they need to be to ensure the car properly absorbs energy of any accident, ABS with Akebono brakes that "can stop a 14-car 170mph train", EPS and ESC make the Kizashi in the running with these standard safety features. Add an optional AWD and track tuned suspension that has the Kizashi handling more like a car that cost several thousand dollars more and the bits not visible to the eye become more of an incentive.

The Kizashi is available in 3 trim levels with 11 different combinations tailored to suit any buyer. The base "S" with a MSRP $18,999 plus a $735 destination fee includes a 6-speed manual transmission, push button start, dual zone climate control, 9-speaker audio, projector beam headlights, power windows/doors/mirrors and ambient foot lighting all come standard. Add the optional CVT transmission the base price jumps to $20,499 or the AWD for an additional $1,250(AWD is only available with the CVT and the added bonus of with a flick of a switch you can turn it off) and you have an AWD mid-size car for under $22,000. A FWD "S" is an additional $2500 but with the upgraded package comes upgraded "17 inch wheels, 10 way power driver seat, 3 position memory, leather wrapped parking brake and steering wheel with cruise control.

For those wanting more of a sportier version, the "GTS" is available with either the 6-speed or CVT with paddle shifters starting at $22,499. All of the standard options available on the "S" but a 425-watt Rockford Fosgate 10-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, hands free calling upgraded P235/45R18 wheels and tires, fog lights and power moon roof compete the package. Those who truly like to have all the creature comforts the "SLS" is your chance to get it all. MSRP at $24,399 has extras such as leather seating, power passenger seat, heated seating, and automatic dimming rear view mirror, universal garage door opener, heated outside mirrors, rain sensing wipers, auto headlights, and rear proximity sensors with audio warnings. Add the CVT and the AWD and you have an exceptional buy that comes in under $28,000.

The only thing the Kizashi does not offer an option on is the engine. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 185-hp with the 6-speed or 180-hp with the optional CVT transmission. Some might think that the one engine option limits the Kizashi’s possible mass interest but with a majority of the cars in its same class coming similarly equipped engine wise, there isn’t much room to discuss. There are talks of a possible V6 or a turbo-charged 4-cylinder in the future but at the moment the Kizashi is doing fine with just the one. With the average across the board with the 11 different combinations, the fuel averages remain 21/30mpg which can be determined differently of course based on your driving styles.

Our "S" model came equipped with the CVT transmission that made for a rather ho-hum driving experience until I took matters into my own hands. The standard "put the car in gear and go" to the ability to switch to manually shifting made a world of difference with the high revving 4 banger. The Kizashi performed like an entirely different car, it became quite fun to drive! The added zip of winding the car out matched with its ability to handle like a stealthy sports car made driving the Kizashi both in the city and on the highway more than entertaining. Only at quick dead stop accelerations was the typical 4-cylinder whine heard and the tire nose was minimal. For the most part the interior cabin provided a relatively quiet ride.

The Kizashi interior impressed me the most. For a car at this price point you would have to sometimes let go of interior quality but not here. Because of the low stance of the car, you sit lower in the Kizashi as the cabin wraps around you. Space for both driver and passengers is not an issue even though you really feel as if you are riding in a coupe verses a sedan. The all black interior our tester came with looked high end with softer plastics and not so harsh hard pieces that seem to mass produced in many cars these days. The entire dash was lit brightly with red backed gauges and tasteful silver plated trim pieces. A constant shade of black made the entire interior cohesive. I found the front seats to be well made, providing body hugging support. The overall fabric seemed to resemble corduroy which we all know is durable yet soft to the touch gave an interesting visual texture to the interior. Where space isn’t an issue on the interior, the trunk provides a mere 13.3 cubic feet of cargo space paired with a narrow trunk opening make anything more than groceries or small items about all that it can contain. The ability to lay the rear seat down to make room for longer objects does compensate the lack of space but with a little creativity a long trip with several luggage pieces could be successful.

Overall, the Kizashi is a breath of fresh air. It’s new, fun and sassy! Not only can Kizashi play the role of a budget friendly under $20,000 sedan but completely gilded it still comes in under $30,000. In a redefining moment of the Suzuki brand, it just may be the turning point for everyone else to take notice of the one car that is getting overlooked by even the best of us.

What has shag carpet, dance club lights and colored accessories? No, not Studio 54 … the Cube.

Not one for super trendy cars that lose their appeal within a few years, I was skeptical to even think that driving this around for a week would be enjoyable. Was I ever wrong. The Cube has won Automobile’s Design of the Year, a Top Safety pick by IIHS and KBB finds it in their top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18k Category, so why wouldn’t I develop a slight liking to this car?

The Nissan Cube has a starting price of $13,990. With the fully loaded Krom edition topping out at under $22,000, the consumer has plenty of options to flex. Our Cube SL came with a MSRP of $17,130 and with options came in just over the $20,000 mark. The 1.8 liter DOHC only provides a measly 122 horsepower and, as my oldest son determined, sounds like a boat launching when floored. And the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) took me longer than a week to get accustomed to. Am I the only one who thinks they are just a little weird?

Point is, there will be no speedy dashes to the finish line in the Cube. It beats walking and has more zip on the bottom end then from a dead stop, but you can’t hold much to such a small engine — but it tries hard, I will give it that. Less zip does mean there will be fewer trips to the gas station. In my week of driving all over creation I managed to put over 500 miles on the Cube on one tank of gas. With a 13.2 tank, that means I averaged right under 40mpg. For the girl who likes to wait until empty no longer flashes a number, I was thoroughly pleased when I didn’t have to stop once.

It could aldo stop on a dime and handled rather well considering it really does resemble a box on wheels. A minor near-death experience brought on by an elderly man who clearly didn’t see our black mass as it moved stealthily down the road quickly avoided disaster, but had me laughing in tears at the sound of the horn. Seriously, it’s a MEEP at best.

From the outside, there really isn’t much visual space taken up by this small station wagon. A turning radius that would put a go-kart to shame and able to fit into half a parking spot, the Cube brings the itty to the bitty. A friendly front end sporting automatic on/off halogen headlights and a somewhat seamless rear with minimal make up for a cute little car. At just a little over 13 feet in length and 5.5 feet wide, you question just how comfortable the interior could possibly be with such limited space. Side, front and roof air bags, front seat active head restraints, 3-point ELR/ALR seat belts for all 5 passengers, front and rear crumple zones earned the Cube 4 and 5 star crash ratings. A list of acronyms includes TCS, VDC, TPMS, EBD, BA, and ABS. Just like a book, you shouldn’t judge the Cube by its cover.

With the expansive amount of glass providing a clear view from every possibly angle, more than generous leg room for all passengers and quite the amount of headroom, the Cube manages to convince you that you are not riding in a clown car. Cargo space was another story. Our test model came equipped with the rear cargo organizer ($180), which provided two locking compartments that can store items normally kept in the car while still leaving the small space above for whatever you may decide to squish back there. Not even a foot deep, storage could pose a problem, but with the seats flat you managed to find yourself with just short of 5 feet of space. However, the seats do not lay flat for some reason, so though the Cube appears made to deliver goods, it’s just not going to happen.

Even with no center console, compartments and cup holders were a-plenty, with a total of six cup and five water bottle holders to give you endless places to store your keys, phone and mp3 player. A 6-way driver side seat with height adjuster and 4-way passenger seat allow for you to get comfy. The only weird option I couldn’t figure out was that the driver side seat had an armrest but the passenger did not, leaving their left arm to just dangle the distance between the seat and floor. Rear seating provided enough support for adults to ride comfortably and the head room remained ample.

The interior does not appear cheap or thrown together, but made just for the Cube. Premium grade seat fabric, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise and mounted controls, Bluetooth hands-free system, speed sensitive volume control, automatic temperature control conditioner, power windows and door locks are just a few of the standard features in the Cube.

The dash has a curvy stance, but in a simple, organized fashion. No faux carbon fiber or abundance of the trendy nickel accents, Nissan got it just right when it came to matching the interior to the exterior. The oval gauge display mimics the oval shapes embossed in the headliner, rectangular radio, and round air condition controls make up all there is to the dash.

The SL preferred package ($1600) includes the Nissan Intelligent Key that replaces the remote keyless entry, push button ignition, fog lights, premium AM/FM/CD audio system with a 4.3″ color display, XM satellite radio, USB audio connectivity, rear view monitor and 6 upgraded speakers with Rockford Fosgate subwoofer that provided the umph through the speakers. The optional interior illumination package ($490) provided stainless steel illuminated kick plates and 20-color interior accent lighting that depending on your mood or music could change with just a twist of a knob. My favorite was green but the options were endless. The interior designer package ($230) included plush floor mats, a cargo area mat, front door bungees and a random shag dash topper. I wasn’t quite sure what purpose it served, but it was a conversation piece none the less with each person who took a look inside. Same for the door bungees that came in a combination of colors that you could switch to your liking. With the changing lights and colored bungees, it was appropriate that there was plenty of techno playing during my travels, putting me back in that Raver mode as the Cube was seemingly geared towards. Or was it people who like to accessorize their cars in odd ways? Either way, it didn’t bother me, since there was no purpose served for either.

Overall, I appreciated what the Cube has to offer. It led me to think inside a box but I won’t ever call one my own.

When I think of an affordable compact SUV, images of a Suzuki are not what first comes to mind. With an already full class of contenders, what could the Grand Vitara do to stand out?

The exterior of the Grand Vitara is appealing, I will give it that. Our Limited model came with 18″ wheels that provided an aggressive stance on the smaller size but the road noise associated with the larger tires provided that a not-so-grand roaring sound as a majority of driving does in fact occur in the city. The Grand Vitara offers a great view of the highway with limited visibility issues. The typical stiff ride one comes to find in an SUV wasn’t horrible but don’t expect cushiness when crossing a set of railroad tracks or a rough patch on the highway. It does alright, but nothing more.

The 3.2L V6 was responsive but for something this size, the fuel economy wasn’t exactly what I was hoping for. The initial estimated until empty flashed 275 miles but it came up short after less than a week of long highway driving. When pennies are being pinched and cheap gas is at the $3 mark, the consumer wants a compact SUV that is fuel efficient but the Grand Vitara doesn’t measure up. Suzuki estimates 17mpg in the city and 23mpg on the highway and with a 17.4 gallon tank, you do the math.

The Grand Vitara offers the safety and security that is typical. Front and side impact air bags, 100,000 mile/7-year powertrain limited warranty that is fully transferable, tire pressure monitoring, ABS, Electronic Stability, Homelink, Smartpass keyless entry and ignition. There are not many options as most come with the trim package associated, ours being the Limited. The dash is simple and easy, not over the top with all black finishes and silver accents. The tacky faux black marble used sparingly could be left out completely though. The pop-up removable Garmin navigation had it’s own place to rest in the center of the dash providing a clear view while driving.

The ability to remove the GPS device to enter data is nice and easy to use. The leather seating is included but the seats are not as comfortable as they could be. Stiff and somewhat cheap, the idea of remaining in them for a long road trip doesn’t leave me excited. The heated seat feature only allows for one temperature and it seems to trickle off the longer it is left on to the point you don’t even realize the heat is even on. Leg room was ample in both front and rear seating surprisingly. A power tilt and slide sunroof, cruise control, tilt leather steering wheel, power windows/doors/locks, heated mirrors, CD/AM/FM 7-speaker audio wrap up the comfort and convenience associated with the Grand Vitara. Additional features (the all season cargo mat, floor mats, premium metallic paint and Bluetooth) brought the Suzuki to $27,653. Though the radio is XM capable, it is not included nor was there a iPod adaptor for the USB port. The quality of the audio wasn’t anything worth bragging about either. The rear cargo isn’t spectacular – it lacks in actual floor space, is compensated with height for those motivated enough to stack and arrange their belongings in order to shove them all in without laying the rear seats down.

There wasn’t anything that made the Grand Vitara scream “HEY LOOK AT ME!” It was just simply OK. Not great, not bad, just OK. Can any manufacturer afford to just be OK? If Suzuki really wanted to gain interest, I feel a lowered price instead of remaining so close to their competition would give them a better edge. The interest would spark if the Limited came in under about $5000 less but for this price, I just don’t see the Grand Vitara at the top of any list.

AutoMD.com estimates that American consumers are overpaying by more than $20 Billion on auto repairs. The investigation not only revealed repair shops giving overblown estimates, but also multiple instances of shops recommending unnecessary work.

Nothing chaps my ass more then being ripped off. Ripping my sister off who fits the typical female stereotype who doesn’t know the difference between a spark plug wire and where the windshield washer fluid goes, really chaps my ass. I’ve never had a bad experience when it comes to automotive repairs because knock on wood, I haven’t had a car that has ever required the maintenance one needs after a certain age. I have dealt with typical maintenance not covered under warranty that most shops still try to up sale you on though. I don’t know if it’s the fact that I use my mom voice when telling them exactly what it is that they be will repairing on my car or the fact that I know what I talking about, no one has ever had the nerve to try an rip me off…yet.

A little over a month ago my younger sister, who religiously takes her car in to have the oil changed and tires rotated at a respectable Jacksonville dealer, gave her the once over, and then proceeded to give her a list of things that needed to be replaced immediately as if there were going to cause major consequences. One must admire a service adviser for simply doing their job but no one sticks it to you quite like a dealer when it comes to the cost of repairs. Not exactly being automotive savvy but experiencing a little bit of sticker shock as a poor college student, she took the list, paid for her oil change and proceeded to call our father who said “I think not”.

Let’s break it down what the dealer’s quoted $2000 bill was going to cover:

• Windshield wipers
• Transmission service
• Spark plugs and wires
• Water pump
• Timing belt
• Labor

The water pump and timing belt, really? Generally, when the the timing belt is replaced you must remove the water pump. It just makes sense at that time to replace them both. My sister bought her car with an extended warranty that heaven forbid, her car overheat or the timing belt break while she was driving down the road causing any major issues, a simple deductible would in fact cover the repairs and replacement. If the engine happened to seize up due to these issues, well then a new engine would be placed in the car for the same deductible. My father, who has owned more than his fair share of automobiles since he started driving in 1975, wasn’t too worried about the water pump or the timing belt so he prioritized the important items on the list. My sister only paid $5000 for the car less than two years ago, dumping $2000 in it now really wasn’t an option or even worth it. At that time she had bought the car it had just gone under a full service including new brakes and tires. The car receiving a clean bill of health from that Dodge dealer all less than 20,000 miles ago too.

My father took 20 minutes out of his day to walk into an automobile supply store where he purchased the windshield wiper blades, quality spark plugs, and transmission service kit, for less than $40. A mechanic and family friend for years was not able to accommodate my sister’s schedule so my father made a quick call to another shop that he had visited on and off for years as he knew the owners. A simple conversation over what repairs were needed and that 75% of the parts had already been purchased, came to a verbal agreement of no more than $100 for labor and miscellaneous parts. Had my father been able to take the time off from work, he would have done all of this himself with a few simple tools. A socket wrench (to fit both the plugs and for the transmission), a ratchet, and a feeler gauge used to set the gap on the plugs. But time being of the essence and not really having a location to put a car on ramps to complete the transmission service, my sister did what a majority of automobile owners do, she took it to have it done.

When my sister dropped her car off, she was given a 4 hour window for all of the repairs to be completed. At the fifth hour, the mechanic called to inform her that both her rear wheel cylinders were leaking and he would not be able to legally let her drive the car away from his shop with such a safety issue. My sister would have to pay for a tow truck and sign a release form in order to get her car back. Feeling pressured and concerned, she agreed without even consulting my father. So how would you even know if there was in fact a problem with the wheel cylinders? The obvious would be that your brake pedal would be soft and require being pushed all the way to the floor, your brake fluid light would come on because there was in fact a leak, and brake fluid would be noticeable on your rear wheels. My sister had experienced NONE of these issues.

At the eighth hour, my sister finally went to pick her car up. $299 later, she reluctantly swiped her card thinking of all the pb & jelly sandwiches she would have to consume for the next month in order to receive her keys back. Not once receiving an invoice stating exactly what had been done or the cost of the parts in order to complete the repair, she was handed a measly statement from the credit card machine stating the amount, date and shop name. There was no offering to view the old parts. Once hitting the road, she called my father to tell him the good news. Needless to say, my family has a tendency to have a bit of a short fuse when it comes to situations like these. No one likes to be taken advantage of and my father had purposely sent my sister there because he was comfortable with the amount quoted and he trusted the shop!

My father immediately came to my house where my sister was to investigate these so-called repairs. The first thing he checked was the spark plugs, she had been charged $10 per plug to change them and guess what? They were the same nasty old spark plugs that had been in there that morning. My father had purchased Autolites that are black, the silver ones from who knows how long ago sat in their place. Had my father had the tools, the entire process to change 4 spark plugs would have taken 15-20 minutes. The transmission was overfilled and we had to get a turkey baster to remove the excess. When he checked the brake fluid, it was dirty. What color is dirty brake fluid? It appears black. New fluid is the color of weak tea. The fact that her car was filthy and there were no hand prints on the rear tires from them being removed along with nothing shiny and new poking out to see it was obvious that the repair on the wheel cylinders had not been made. When my sister told him she didn’t even get an invoice or any old parts back, as one would say, he blew his stack.

With a phone call, the mechanic tried to justify his $10 per spark plug charge and that he had switched them, the fee for cleaning the transmission pan with a can of carb cleaner, that his dinky shop specifically had the wheel cylinders for that exact model car in stock, the entire tube of RTV to seal the transmission pan was justified much like the can of brake cleaner but hey! No charge to bleed the brakes because it wasn’t needed! There is no way you can get out of bleeding the brakes (which means to get all of the air out of the system once new fluid has been placed in the lines) – you have to do it. There was no charge, nor getting out of it because it had not been done. Had it not been 15 minutes from closing or a 45 minute drive away, I can assure you that my father would have been more than willing to settle this face to face as a few choice words over the phone really were not getting his point across as to what he thought about that days events. There was no explanation as to where the parts were, why the spark plugs had not been replaced or any negotiation on the services.

After an hour of ranting about the entire situation, being mad was not solving the issue so my sister got even. She called her bank and explained the situation who stated that since it was a pending transaction to call back once it had posted and they would assist her. That Tuesday, she called her bank back and since the previous person she had spoke to made excellent notes on her account, the charge was refunded and in return paper work was being sent for her to take the car to another repair shop to validate that in fact none of these repairs had been made. When she did in fact take the car for a second opinion recently, the spark plugs and wheel cylinders had not been replaced. No big surprise there. Luckily Visa stays true to it’s word. Unfortunately, not everyone is this lucky at finding such quick resolution in situations like these.

So what can you do to avoid this happening to you?

First, know exactly what needs to be repaired on your car. Second, shop around; don’t settle for one answer. AutoMd has a neat tool that allows you to estimate what you can expect to pay for repairs. Third, always get a written estimate with an agreed charge. Fourth, once you have decided on the shop, be firm with what services are going to be performed on your car – do not let any shop force you into repairs that you did not request. At this time negotiate a price based on what you have found. Fifth, if additional parts are bought during the repair make sure they provide you with proof and that you always receive all of the old parts back. Yes, you will just end up throwing them away but you will see in fact that the repairs had been made on what you were charged for. And lastly, if for some reason you feel as if you did not receive quality service or that repairs made were not to your liking, do not pay or leave the shop until you feel comfortable. You have the right to refuse any service. If you still do not feel comfortable in searching for a repair shop alone or taking your car in for service, take someone with you to reaffirm what you are requesting that is more knowledgeable.

The bitter taste left from a bad automotive repair experience is not one that will soon go away.

When the keys were handed over this past week to the sassy compact sedan parked out front I did a double take. A Kia? No way. Their slogan, “the power to surprise,” did just that.

When Kia debuted in the United States, it was with the reputation of offering a cheap car and nothing more. First came the Sephia then Spectra but the Forte comes as a whole new replacement to two previous cars that just were so-so. Unlike most auto makers, there was no rebadging or smoothing out the surfaces; a whole new car was in order down to the chassis when it came to the design. The Forte was launched around the same time Kia itself launched a complete overhaul on their line and company. With recalls and slumping numbers from most manufactures, sales are on the up for Kia with an entire lineup that offers high safety ratings, great fuel economy and a 10-year/100,000 mile warranty to match others manufactures.

The Forte comes in three trim levels, the base LX, EX both of which share a 2.0L 156-hp with a 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed automatic with a starting MSRP $13,695. We were lucky enough to score the SX model which came equipped with a 2.4L 173-hp with a standard 6-speed manual (an optional 5-speed automatic is available, too) MSRP of $17,495. Standard features with this trim level include heated power mirrors, a AM/FM/CD/MP3/SIRUS 6 speaker audio system, Bluetooth wireless, cruise control, remote entry, air conditioning, dual front and side impact airbags and abs. The optional SX leather package ($1000) includes heated seats and a windshield de-icer and power sunroof ($700) and topped the Forte out at $19,890. The only factory option that is not included at the moment is a navigation system, but a deal is in the works with Garmin.

The Forte’s front facade provides headlights that appear to squint, with a sleek wrap around front that continues down the sides to where the smooth wrapping finishes off the rear of the car. The SX comes with 17-inch alloy wheels that give it an slightly aggressive stance. It sits just a little lower to the ground thanks to its independent front with MacPherson struts, a stabilizer bar, and a torsion beam rear with struts and coil springs. There was little to no roll in the curves and loopty-loos I searched for all over town. The Forte hugged the road no matter what the speed. The 2.4-liter engine coupled with the 6-speed manual transmission was a complete blast to drive. There is a slight hesitation starting from a dead stop while quickly launching the car from first to second gear but was soon not an issue while easily moving into the higher gears. Kia offers 0-60 times in the mid 7-seconds for the SX. The Forte comes with standard four-wheel disc brakes along with ABS, ESC (stability control), BAS (brake assist), EBD (electronic brake force distribution), and TCS (traction control) that ensure stopping to be just as effective as mashing the gas. While zipping down brick roads or cutting through traffic on the interstate the car held its own. The SX offers more power and better fuel economy, 23/31 mpg, then other leaders in this class.

Offering more interior space than three of the main sellers in this group, the interior of the Forte was just as thought out as the exterior redesign. The moment I first sat in the drivers seat I immediately loved that the dash did not seem so far away. Add one smaller sized leather wrapped steering wheel with both audio and Bluetooth controls that were incredibly easy to navigate that also happened to fall exactly where I rest my thumbs when driving. I was in lust. I programmed the Bluetooth quickly and went through the radio as if it were second nature. Everything from the air conditioning to the heated seats to the sunroof controls were as if they were positioned in a reflex mode instead of actually having to reach for any of them.

The overall design and quality of the materials were, in my opinion, above average. Flat black dash with satin nickle-like detailing broke up what would be an excess of black plastic. A cubby large enough for your phone and mp3 player sat below with charging ports and auxiliary plug-in sat under the air controls in the center cubby leaving two cup holders in the center as well as the typical console and one slot above for your sunglasses. In the rear seat, my the drivers seat all the way back there was still plenty of leg room and I did not feel cramped. There was more than enough room for two adults to comfortably ride in back.The part I enjoyed the most about the interior was how quiet it was inside. Even with the sunroof open there was minimal wind drag, reducing the cabin noise one normally gets with such a feature open. The trunk provided massive cargo space that was able to extend into the interior space with the rear sat laid flat.

Overall, I’m sold. The Kia Forte is everything a car this price should be; it’s sporty, has spunk (making it a fun car to drive), and handles surprisingly well. It is also aggressively priced with a ton of standard options and not-so-pricey upgrades. And it just looks good! The Kia Forte could be considered the underdog, but with these shining qualities in such a full class of contenders it won’t be like that for much longer. When it came time to hand the keys over, I was willing to give my own car up as collateral to keep the Forte longer. But no such luck.

For the seven days of pure driving pleasure, Kia made a point to show that they are ready to take a firm hold on the market with something other than a minivan. I truly enjoyed driving the Forte and would recommend it highly for anyone who thinks the only options in the sporty compact category belong to the norm.

Think outside the box. You just might be surprised, too.

Photos by Joanna Cifrian

The Hyundai Elantra was introduced to us in the early ’90s and wasn’t exactly what anyone claimed as a first choice for this compact class, but things have changed. Hyundai in general has improved, rated #1 in fuel efficiency and offering better reliability with a 10 year/100,000 warranty to boot. They also provide Hyundai Assurance (which allows you to return your vehicle and walk away from your loan or lease without having to worry about negative equity) and standard features that most consider options. Add an affordable price tag to the Elantra and suddenly it makes a brand new car an option for most who would typically settle for used with a starting MSRP of $14,145.

The 4th generation Elantra received an overall makeover with an exterior that is smooth in appearance and not at all ugly but still doesn’t really stand out. The rounded front and rear make the car tasteful without looking like a bubble. As most of the Hyundai models, it is similar with the front grill and headlights as the rest of the lineup. What personality it lacks on the exterior is made up with by an unexpected interior.

Hyundai Elantra offers a spacious interior and unobstructed view to the outside. With 112.1 cubic feet, it has the largest interior of any car in this class. There is seating for four adults comfortably with room for five if needed. An impressive amount of head room, front and rear leg room and comfortable seating took us by surprise. The above average trim did not appear cheap or haphazardly put together, and the dash and surround were clean and thought out even with the large amount of plastic covering the deep dashboard. The instrument cluster was easy to decipher and all controls were well within reach. Little things like placing the trunk release button in the driver side door exactly where your hand naturally wants to reach instead of up under the dash, a rear seat fold release in the trunk and plenty of storage compartments around the driver were nice added touches. The ridiculously inconspicuous trunk that extends with the 60/40 split rear seat were more than enough to carry home two Adirondack chairs along with a week’s worth of groceries. Standard dual front, dual front seat-mounted side airbags and dual side curtain and ABS are an added bonus to what we expect a new car should offer to keep us safe.

The Elantra-Blue as tested came equipped with the Comfort Package ($1700) that added a six-speaker audio system with the essential iPod and MP3 auxiliary jacks, XM radio, cruise and air conditioning. Carpet floor mats ($95), iPod cable ($35) and an easy to use Bluetooth hands-free phone system ($325) along with the freight and handling ($720) topped our total price as tested to $17,020. The base model Elantra unfortunately does not come equipped with air conditioning, which in these days one wouldn’t even consider an option. The price tag slowly creeps towards the $20,000 mark with the upgraded trim packages such as the GLS or SE that the air is standard on.

The manual transmission was confident enough to merge into rush hour traffic as it helped boost the 2.0 liter, 138 HP DOHV 4-cylinder up and down the road. The clutch was easy but the short throws of the shifter were clumsy and felt tightly placed together. With the average 35 highway mpg and combined average 29 mpg, you could easily get past the awkward set up with the fewer trips to the pump. As it was, it felt like it took forever to move the gas gauge off the full indicator and down below the halfway mark. I found the engine to be incredibly quiet even while accelerating and on the highway at higher speeds. There were a few times that if it had not been for the tachometer, I wouldn’t have even known it was running. The ride and handling of the car exceeded expectations by providing more then what I initially expected– but no rally races in its immediate future.

Overall, if you are in the market for a first car or second car to add to the family lineup, put the Hyundai Elantra on your short list. Hyundai offers a great value, long-term backed reliability and you can’t beat the great fuel economy. The car isn’t going to stop traffic with great looks or performance but it will allow you to arrive comfortably and with a realistic price. The Elantra just might be exactly what you are looking for.

Photos by Joanna Cifrian.

Dear EarthTalk: Are there any conservation efforts focused on animal species endemic to islands likely to be submerged by rising sea levels? – H. Wyeth, Anahola, HI

Islands are indeed likely to be the areas hardest hit by our warming climate. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a group of leading climate scientists from around the world convened by the United Nations to assess the ongoing risk of global warming, predicts a global average sea level rise of between 3.5 and 34.6 inches over the next century. And the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a coalition of 42 small island and low-lying coastal countries that have banded together to lobby United Nations policymakers, reports that warming-induced sea level rises could threaten the very existence of some island nations including the Maldives, Kiribati and parts of the Bahamas.

Those low-lying nations that do manage to hang onto some land will contend with not only continuously rising seas and stronger more frequent storms, but also declines in the productivity of their agriculture and fisheries. Salt water intrusion will limit the amount of freshwater available for crops and in some cases undermine the integrity of the soil itself. And as coral reefs die off, the abundant marine life that once congregated around them will disappear.

As for wildlife, it’s unclear just how much certain endemic species will be affected by rising sea levels and other environmental hazards exacerbated by global warming. Clearly the biggest threat is habitat loss: Land forms that once sustained certain animals may no longer be above water or otherwise suitable for some species. Those fortunate enough to be on big continents may be able to move away from shore to neighboring areas that can provide the resources needed for survival. But animals on islands may be hard pressed to find places better to go to where they can keep on keeping on.

The IPCC lists a few examples among thousands of endemic island dwellers facing likely extinction unless we can get a handle on greenhouse gas emissions in short order: the Tuamotu sandpiper of Tuamotu Island, the Bristle-thighed Curlew of French Polynesia, the Manus fantail of Papua New Guinea, the lorikeet and rail of New Caledonia, the moorhen and Savai’i of Samoa, the Santo Mountain starling on Espiritu Santo, penguins in the Galapagos, petrels in Bermuda and seabird colonies from the Kerguelen, Crozet and outer Hawaiian islands, among others. The IPCC adds that endemic flora may fare even worse, which will in turn drive more animal extinctions.

What can be done to stem this rising tide of endemic species loss? According to the IPCC, the establishment of terrestrial, marine or coastal reserves has been found to be a "useful management option." Results from existing model reserves on islands across the Caribbean (including Dominica, Bonaire, the Grenadines and St. Lucia) have shown promise. Groups including Conservation International, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the Nature Conservancy and others, are working to create more such reserves in other biodiversity hotspots, including many non-threatened islands around the globe.

CONTACTS: IPCC, www.ipcc.ch; AOSIS, www.sidsnet.org/aosis; Conservation International, www.conservation.org; Wildlife Conservation Society, www.wcs.org; Nature Conservancy, www.nature.org.

SEND YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONS TO: EarthTalk®, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php. EarthTalk® is now a book! Details and order information at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalkbook

Dear EarthTalk: I recently got my car detailed at a local place and then gasped at the chemical fumes when I got inside. Are there green detailers out there, or products that I could use myself to keep my vehicle clean and my family out of harm’s way? – David Berkowitz, Newton, MA

Traditionally, auto detailing has employed a range of not-so-green-friendly products such as ammonia, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nonphenolethoxolates (NPEs), abrasive detergents, and chemical-based leather, vinyl, fabric and carpet treatments. Inside the car, they can off-gas harsh airborne pollutants; when washed down storm drains they can wreak havoc on public water supplies.

Unfortunately, while environmental awareness is beginning to crop up among auto detailing services (online discussion boards are full of posts from professional detailers sharing their tips for greener, more effective products and formulations), finding a green detailing service isn’t very easy just yet, so doing it yourself might be the only way to ensure that the environment and your health are spared chemical insult. There are green detailing products and kits out there, easily found through an Internet search.

Two leading suppliers are Laura Klein’s Green Cleaning, and Mean Green. These companies, among others, specialize in degreasers, dashboard dressings, tire cleaners, spot removers and other products made with natural, biodegradable water- and plant-based substances (including coconut, palm, citrus, corn and soy), combined and concentrated to be as effective as or better than their chemical-laden counterparts.

Another way to be green and clean at the same time is to choose wash and wax products that don’t contain harsh chemical surfactants—and as such don’t require water-wasting, polluting rinses. No-Wet Waterless Concepts and Optimum Polymer Technologies are two leading manufacturers for such goods.

Do-it-yourselfers should be careful not to dump wastewater into nearby storm drains not intended to carry toxic run-off. Most reputable car wash businesses go to great lengths to make sure the water, soaps, oils and other dirt from your car doesn’t end up polluting groundwater, rivers and streams, and so should you. If you clean your car in your own driveway or garage, try to collect any run-off and dispose of it into a drain or toilet that will send it through the sewage treatment system, not into the curbside storm run-off drain that may well lead directly to a local water body or shoreline.

While finding a green detailer may not be easy, you can start by asking those operators in your region if they currently use environmentally-friendly products and/or processes. If not, ask them if they would be amenable to greening up their operations for the sake of attracting customers like you.

Some detailers that have already taken the green plunge include: Ecodetail Services of Sacramento, CA; Car Wash Concepts of Aliso Viejo, CA; Gia’s Detailing of Long Island, NY; Scott’s Mobile Auto Detailing of Tarrant County, TX; and Elite Detailing Service Inc. of Plainfield, IL. These providers share an interest in environmental protection, use minimal amounts of water and other resources, and dispose of run-off according to the stringent standards set forth under the federal Clean Water and Clean Air acts.

CONTACTS: Laura Klein’s, www.laurakleinsgreencleaning.com; Mean Green, www.meangreen.com; No-Wet Waterless, www.nowet.com; Optimum Polymer Technologies, www.optimumcarcare.com.

SEND YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTIONS TO: EarthTalk®, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php. EarthTalk® is now a book! Details and order information at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalkbook.

December closed out the year well for most

This week U.S auto manufactures reported their December sales and Annual numbers which just may spark a little notice with the fact people are in fact buying despite the tough economy.

Audi

Audi reports December U.S. sales of 9,030 luxury performance cars and SUVs, a result that ensured Audi will show the biggest 2009 U.S. market share gain of any imported luxury car brand. December 2009 ranked as the sixth-best month and the third-best December for the Audi brand in the U.S. The December 2009 sales represent a 17.1% increase from year-earlier December sales of 7,712 vehicles. "Audi clearly showed that it is the luxury brand on the move in 2009," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. December proved to be the best sales month ever for the Q5 and A5, best month of year for A3, A4, A6 and Q7 with the Clean diesel TDI models make up 53% of A3 sales, 43% of Q7 sales. Audi sold a total of 82,716 units for the entire 2009 year, 5.7% lower than the previous year.

BMW

Sales for BMW increased 11.5% in December for a total of 20,128 vehicles compared to 18,060 vehicles reported in the same month a year ago. For the year, BMW brand sales were down 21.1 percent to 196,502 vehicles compared to 249,113 vehicles sold in 2008. The top sellers were the X5 up 22.3 percent compared to December 2008. The BMW X6 was up 30.1 percent. The 5 Series gained 5.8 percent vs. December 2008 just prior to the introduction of an all-new 5 Series in the second quarter of 2010. The all-new BMW 7 Series and Z4 Roadster also had significant increases compared to last December, partially due to model cycle updates and limited inventory a year ago. “The numbers show a good month for us, but more importantly is the fact we saw traffic, shopping and sales evenly distributed throughout December,” said Jim O’Donnell, President of BMW of North America, LLC.

Chrysler

Chrysler Group today reported December sales increased 36 percent compared with November 2009 and 20 of 24 vehicles posted sales increases for the same time period. Inventory is down 55 percent compared with December 2008, with 178,538 units in inventory, representing a 58-day supply. Chrysler’s annual sales fell to 931,402 vehicles down from the 1.5 million sold the 2008 year. “As we kick off the new year, Chrysler Group continues to build momentum with some of the best products in the marketplace, and we are enthusiastic about the new products coming this year,” said Fred Diaz, President and Chief Executive Officer-Ram Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization, Chrysler Group LLC. “Our great Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram products are being recognized by opinion leaders in the industry, and consumers are responding in a positive way. In 2010 the company will continue to earn the trust of consumers with exciting, high-quality vehicles that are priced right.”

Ford

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury December sales up 33 percent versus a year ago; highest sales month since May 2008. 2009 marked the first time since 1995 that Ford announced full-year market share gain. Ford’s F-Series trucks has been the best selling truck for the past 33 years with a 16% increase this December. Ford also credits the ever so popular Fusion which had an increase of 83% for the month of December alone marking a new full-year sales record of units sold with the Escape having its second best ever sales year with an increase of 75% in December. December marks the 14th time in the last 15 months that Ford increased retail market share. Full-year sales totaled 1.62 million units still down 15% from the previous year. "People increasingly are discovering that the Ford difference is the strength of our products, particularly our leadership in quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart technologies and value," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service.

General Motors

GM dealers in the U.S. reported 160,996 retail deliveries in December — a 7 percent increase compared to last year, and a 50 percent increase over last month. Retail sales of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands were 146,419 — up 13 percent for the month. "The fact that our retail market share has increased two full points from the third to fourth quarters demonstrates that we are strengthening our brands," said Susan Docherty, vice president, Sales, Service and Marketing. December also marked the lowest dealer inventory at 385,000 units nationwide on record. Chevrolet retail sales were up 14 percent — driven by strong sales of Camaro, Traverse, Malibu and Equinox. Buick retail sales were up 32 percent compared with a year ago on the continued strength of LaCrosse and Enclave. GMC retail sales were up 4 percent vs. December 2008 on strong Acadia sales. Cadillac retail sales were up 7 percent, led by the 2010 SRX, with sales 357 percent higher than a year ago. GM estimated that total vehicle sales would fall to 10.6 million in 2009, the lowest since 1982 and down from 13.2 million in 2008 and 16.1 in 2007.

Honda

American Honda Motor Co. Inc. said Tuesday its U.S. sales jumped 24 percent in the last month of the year, but fell 19.5 percent for all of 2009. Sales in the Honda division rose 18.9 percent in December compared with 2008. But the company’s Acura division reported an 8.1 decline. Accord and CR-V increased to hit a new December record. Sales increased to 107,143 vehicles from 86,085 in December of 2008. For all of 2009, sales fell to 1,150,784 from 1,428,765.

Hyundai

Hyundai Motor America today announced December sales of 33,797, up more than 40 percent versus December 2008. For the full year, Hyundai reported 435,064 sales, up eight percent over the prior year total. Car of the Year Genesis set the tone for the month, recording an all-time, any-time, sales record in December. “We are looking forward to 2010 and have reason to be optimistic,” added Zuchowski. “Led by our strongest product lineup ever, highlighted by the all-new Tucson and all-new Sonata — and more great products in the pipeline — the ranking by the EPA as the most fuel-efficient car company in America, and the enhanced Hyundai Assurance program, it’s clear that we’re already off to a great start in 2010.” Hyundai recently announced an extension of their popular Hyundai Assurance program that permits Hyundai customers to return their new vehicle if they become unemployed. The program also adds in five years of roadside assistance and a 10 year/100,000 mile warranty.

Kia

Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced December sales of 21,048 units, a 43.7-percent increase over the same month last year, and total 2009 sales of 300,063 units, a 9.8-percent increase over the same period last year. Kia small cars, including Rio, Forte, Forte Koup and Soul led the way in monthly sales volume. “In the midst of our largest commitment to the U.S. market ever, we have once again prevailed against difficult economic times and a down automotive industry by increasing our market share for the 15th consecutive year,” said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. “Our new and appealing design evolution paired with our core principles of quality, safety, value and technology will continue to boost our brand into the next decade.”

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported December sales of 20,025 vehicles, its highest monthly volume of the year, bringing the company’s total 2009 volume to 190,604 and narrowing the gap versus last year to 15.3 percent. An increase of 8.2 percent compared to December 2008. Ernst Lieb, president and CEO of MBUSA said: “The strong finish to a year marked by challenges on every front, underscores the customer confidence in the Mercedes-Benz brand and the unstinting efforts we have undertaken in partnership with our retail network to provide an unparalleled ownership experience.”

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi Motors North America said Tuesday its 2009 annual sales fell 44.5 percent, while sales for December dropped 4.7 percent even with the 49 percent increase over the month of November. Sales fell to 53,986 vehicles from 97,257 in 2008. In December, sales slid to 4,355 vehicles from 4,570 in December 2008. The Galant proved to be the top seller with 1,600 sold in December. “The improvement in December sales validates our renewed strategies and tactics,” said Shinichi Kurihara, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America. “The input provided by our dealers’ National Advisory Board has been instrumental in guiding our revised sales plans and actions, and will continue to do so as we collaborate to extend this sales momentum.”

Nissan

Nissan Division posted sales of 64,296 units in December compared with 53,829 units sold in December 2008, a 19.4 percent increase. Nissan Versa set a record month as well as huge double digit increases in the sales of Maxima, Z, Frontier, Xterra, Pathfinder and Armada. For calendar year 2009, combined Nissan and Infiniti sales totaled 770,103 vehicles, compared with 951,350 vehicles sold in 2008, a 19.1 percent decline. "The industry is coming out of a very tough year; it’s good to see 2009 behind us,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. “Despite the huge challenges and uncertainties of last year, combined Nissan and Infiniti market share set a record in 2009. And looking ahead, we’re encouraged by some signs of economic improvement. Showroom traffic is building and consumer confidence is rising."

Subaru

Subaru of America, Inc announced a record breaking sales year as the company sold 216,652 units in 2009, an increase of 15-percent. This breaks the previous sales record of 200,703 units sold in 2006. This also marks a record sales month for December 2009 as the company sold 23,074 units – an increase of 33-percent – versus 17,287 units sold in December 2008. December represented yet another record month for the Japanese manufacture. “We really owe this tremendous success to both our retailers and employees, who executed the business plans we set in place,” said Thomas J. Doll, EVP and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. “Along with our vision and their belief in the Subaru brand, they helped make that vision a reality,” Doll continued.

Suzuki

American Suzuki reported Tuesday that the automaker’s 2009 sales dropped 54 percent as December sales fell 48 percent. December sales dropped to 1,885, compared to 3,650 in 2008. For all of 2009, sales fell to 38,689 from 84,862 in 2008. The SX4 was the company’s top-selling model with 1,116 sold in December. Sales fell to 1,885 in December from 3,650 a year earlier. For all of 2009, sales fell to 38,689 from 84,862 in 2008.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen of America, Inc. reported December 2009 sales of 20,387 total units, representing a 16 percent increase over December 2008. December marks Volkswagen’s sixth consecutive sales month above last year. The Jetta, Volkswagen of America’s top selling nameplate, posted strong December results with 10,233 units, a 26.9 percent increase over December 2008. Volkswagen’s clean diesel TDI models continue to perform especially well and accounted for over 20 percent of the brands total December sales. Volkswagen sold 213,454 total units for 2009, a decrease of 4.3 percent of the 223,128 units sold in 2008. “December’s performance was encouraging, as was the six consecutive months of sales growth that we have experienced. During those six months, Volkswagen sales increased 8.2 percent over the same period of last year,” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “2009 proved to be another extremely challenging year for the Automotive Industry. We are encouraged by the fact that we were able to continue to grow our market share throughout 2009 despite the extremely challenging market conditions,” added Barnes.

Volvo

Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) December sales were up 13.8 percent in the United States, marking the seventh straight month of a year-over-year increase. In the United States, VCNA sold a total of 5,638 vehicles in December. Another major contributor to Volvo’s recent sales success Safe + Sound coverage plan which provides best-in-class coverage, provides the lowest cost of luxury ownership (according to IntelliChoice). Overall in North America (United States and Canada), Volvo has sold 67,975 units in 2009, which represents a 14.6 percent decrease for the same period of 2008.

Cadillac will reveal the 2011 CTS Coupe at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 12. The 2011 CTS-V Coupe will make its world premiere in Detroit as well, and will enter into production in the summer of 2010. The concept that GM stated “wasn’t supposed to exist” is surprisingly coming to life. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and global expansion.

Cadillac is expected to produce between 15,000 to 20,000 of the coupes. According to the Cadillac’s Director of Design, the CTS coupe could start at around $40,000.

The CTS coupe will feature a standard 3.6L 304HP V6 engine. The CTS-V most likely will be powered by the robust 6.2L Supercharged 556 hp V8 that has been catching the attention housed in the Sedan version by staking the claim as the fastest production sedan on the market.

Winter — the magical season that transforms all roads into rinks, cars into hockey pucks and drivers into passengers — is upon us. That means three months of brutal driving conditions for those of us who park our cars in the 6th state, but there are a few simple things we can all do to prepare for the slippery path ahead.

With a blizzard expected to hit New England this weekend, here’s what we recommend:

1. Get yourself TWO windshield scrapers. We’ve all done it – opened the door to grab a scraper only to watch a small avalanche make its way from the roof into the drivers seat. Keep one in the car, and one in the house. And don’t buy one of the 6″ travel-size models; while they look handy in the store, your handy is going to get pretty cold the first time you need to remove 7″ of fresh powder. Invest in a nice, big scraper/brush combination tool and be done with it. We found a crazy, out of control scraper from Oxo in their Extendable Twister Snowbrush.
2. Top off your wiper fluid. This one is a no-brainer. Even when it isn’t snowing, the truck ahead of you is going to throw a nasty salt/mud concoction right in your windshield any time the road gets wet. Don’t use water, as it will freeze (duh); a gallon jug of quality Smurf juice can be found for less than $5 at your local gas station or supermarket. Buy two, and check your owner’s manual for filling instructions.
3. Check your wiper blades. If your wiper blades struggled to keep your windshield clear in the spring and fall, don’t expect them to put up much of a fight to rain’s colder sister. Check the rubber for cracks, tears, or any signs of wear. If they don’t make the grade, a new set of high performance Rain-X blades go for about $20 at any auto parts store.
4. Inspect your tires. First, check your tire pressure. The pressure in your tires falls by 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature, so don’t be surprised if you have to fill up. You can find the recommended range on the yellow sticker in your doorjamb, and a pressure gauge will deflate your wallet by about $10. If your pressure is low, top off at a gas station.

   Then check your tread depth. To do this, stick a quarter into one of the treads with Washington’s head upside-down. If any part of his head is covered by rubber, it means you have at least 4/32″ of tread depth – good to go. But if his wig doesn’t reach the rubber, you might want to replace your rollers. Studies have shown that braking distances on wet pavement nearly double when your tires wear from 4/32″ to 2/32″ (Lincoln’s head on a penny).

   Finally, figure out exactly what kind of rubber you have wrapped around your rims. Find the make and model on the tire’s sidewall and check the specs online. Chances are your shoes are of the all-season variety – which are OK – but you want to make sure that don’t have summer tires. While they’re great for dry pavement, summer tires are downright dangerous in winter conditions. You owe it to yourself (and everyone else on the road) to check, especially if your two-owner vehicle spent its early years anywhere south of Pennsylvania.

5. Consider snow tires. As I said, all-season tires are OK, but they are nowhere near as cold-weather-capable as snow tires. Studies have shown that snow tires require 28 fewer feet than their all-season counterparts to halt a car traveling at 40 MPH. From 60 MPH, the difference is 59 feet. In low-visibility blizzard conditions, this kind of improvement can mean the difference between stopping safely and getting into an accident. In addition to their superior stopping power, snow tires provide better lateral grip (which will come in handy if you decide to turn) and acceleration (which will come in handy when you need to get from zero to moving). A set of four can run anywhere between $300 and $400, and most shops will mount any tires you purchase from them for free. While they aren’t cheap, snow tires make winter driving safer for you, your car, and everyone else on the road.
6. Check your battery. If it sounded strained in the fall months it’s going to sound a lot worse on those 10 degree February mornings. Freezing temperatures can cut battery output in half. Most auto parts stores will test your battery for free and let you know if it’s going to leave you stranded. A new battery can cost anywhere from $100 to $200, but will provide you with years of cold-cranking power that you can count on.
7. Check your coolant. Even on the coldest of days, your engine gets very hot and relies on coolant to keep from overheating. That’s why you need to make sure the magical liquid is, well, a liquid. Coolant becomes solid if it isn’t mixed with the right amount of antifreeze. The ideal ratio is 50:50, and the only way to be sure that you have it right is by flushing the radiator system. It’s a good thing to do anyway if your car has over 50,000 miles, and should set you back less than $100 at an independent shop. A dealership will probably charge you more.

You know what they say about opinions, and we all know that we are entitled to them.

The media gets a bad rap for publishing incriminating information on certain celebrities, politicians and manufacturers when unexpected events come about. We speak highly of underdogs and stories of struggle that rise above circumstances to make a glorious victory but there always seems to be someone on the other side who has to rain on the parade. I think back to all the corny quotes we came up with in middle school about envy, jealousy and ignorant people and like a Dr. Seuss book they can be applied to our adult lives too.

In 1903, Henry Ford incorporated Ford Motor Company which has gone on to be one of the largest and most profitable companies as well as being one to survive the Great Depression. Fast forward to late 2008 when all three of our domestic automobile manufactures were asking Congress for bailout money who took it upon themselves to repair their own financial problem and not ask for a hand out? Ford. Who reported earnings this year? Ford. I’m no analyst but those are facts that cannot be argued with.

That public recognition alone was enough to prove that they do have a solid global business plan that has them venturing into areas that reflect the future of Ford, profits are expected to continue to grow due to a conservative approach of their spending and that they understand the reason why consumers were not purchasing new automobiles during the our countries recession instead pointing fingers elsewhere.

I have been privileged enough to see many Ford model changes over the years with right now in my opinion, their most attractive line up in their history. Ford quality has continuously improved over the last 8 years which has been noticed each time by J.D Power & Associates. In one year alone their score went up 10 points over last year’s study. "Ford brand’s quality continues to improve faster than the overall industry.” Add up all the other awards given and it’s pretty obvious that they have earned their right to say Ford quality is exactly that.

Recent manufacture inventory numbers reflect a higher for Ford then GM. Could it be that GM has a lower inventory for the simple fact that they stopped producing at several plants back in May? Recent drives past local GM dealers reflect low inventory and poor selection. Several new models were launched this year from GM such as the Buick LaCrosse which has only been in production since June and it’s a hot car at the moment for the simple fact it’s new. Add to the overly hyped 2010 Camaro which had only sold a whopping 9,320 in the first half of the year since release verses the Mustang which did get minimal redesign this year but has been continuously in production while GM had no V8 pot to pee in since 2003. According to Rick Roberts at Greenway Ford, their amount of what the industry considers "aged" inventory has drastically been reduced due to positive marketing. Ford can credit their loyal customers as well as newly impressed, first time Ford buyers with their ability to keep their head above the water — which is equivalent to a good handshake in times like these.

So before the media decides to have their daily dose of hater-aid, consider the Ford facts.

Dear Santa,

I know my behavior this year has not always been desirable but I really am trying hard to be a very good girl!

As you know, I haven’t had the best relationship with my car since we came into each other’s lives over the summer. Tomorrow, she is currently going in for service yet again for the same issue. I am asking you to oversee resolution on this stressful subject so I can stop making the 50 mile trek to the dealer or give me the satisfaction of using my right to enact the Lemon Law. You know this is what I really want, so help a girl out and there will be a lot less complaining coming from my end of the world!

If I do end up keeping her, there are a few things that I would like to pamper her with.

1. K&N Air filter
2. Tint the widows, more for me but I feel as if I am the last person in Florida to not have them but she will look pretty with them done
3. Valentine One radar detector. I know, more for me then her
4. Weekly "Spa" treatments. So can you limit the rain fall to only the day before she is to be washed instead of an hour after she has been?
5. Have Nissan agree to cancel my extended warranty and putting the credit towards my account instead of the principle so I can skip some car payments. Okay, another more for me then her….

If for some reason, all goes well and I am able to move on to something else … which would be the very best Christmas present ever … I promise to keep the new car for at least 3 years, love and adore her no matter what since I seek a car that has few service issues in their history and not to bad mouth her in any way.

I say this with eyes, fingers, toes, arms and legs crossed.

Love always,

Sarah

Ps. Can I also have that totally badass Shelby slot car racetrack sold at Restoration Hardware too? I promise to share with the boys!

Pps. Do not fret, my nonautomotive list will follow shortly!

Unlike Boston’s famous World of Wheels auto show that allows car owners and aftermarket suppliers to showcase their own fire breathing, custom painted, tricked out rides, The New England International Auto Show is more focused on the world’s major automakers and their new vehicle lineups for the upcoming year. This year, 30 manufacturers were represented from December 2-6 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

Just about every major production vehicle for the 2010 model year rolled its way onto the carpeted floor of the massive convention center. With the Ferrari booth sandwiched between those of Acura and Hyundai, the collection of vehicles spanned a wide array of price brackets and purposes. In typical fashion, the exotics dropped jaws of all passers by, but the showstopper was undoubtedly Chevrolet’s engine testing exhibit. Every half hour, a GM engineer (clad in a full-length lab coat) ran a small block Chevy V8 through it’s paces on an industrial dynamometer. Large monitors displayed the engines horsepower, torque, and RPM’s while the non-existent muffler system drew everyone away from the subcompacts and hybrids that suddenly seemed a lot less cool.

After being so tactfully lured to the Chevrolet section of the exhibition floor, the emphasis on horsepower translated throughout the show. Camaros, Challengers, V10 powered Audi R8′s, and the new Corvette ZR1 — capable of speeds over 200 MPH — set a tone of raw, unadulterated speed. Despite high fuel prices and an ozone layer with the structural makeup of Swiss cheese, there is no denying that the muscle car is bigger than ever for 2010.

Electricity, though, was not to be outdone. The Tesla booth garnered more oohs and ahhs than the massage parlor your “friend” “read about” on Craigslist. Despite having to (ironically) shout over spine tingling V8 wales, the brand’s representative made a good case for the battery operated 2-seater, which is capable of out-accelerating most of its petrol-powered competitors. Show-goers were pleased to hear Tesla’s plans for a new dealership in the Boston area.

Hybrids, too, were well represented, with models like the new Escalade proving that there is a low(er) emissions vehicle for everyone.

The show was not limited to the observation of still-life. High-tech driving simulations gave even young enthusiasts the chance to get behind the wheel of a racing machine. Beyond simulations, Cadillac offered test drives on four of its new models: the CTS, CTS wagon, SRX and new Escalade Hybrid. I had the chance to pilot all four on the closed track set up around the convention center. While it is always fun strapping into a brand new drivers seat, I was a bit disappointed by the suggested speed limit of 20 MPH and confined testing area. While I am convinced that the new Cadillacs would do a fantastic job negotiating my driveway, it was hard to get a feel for how the cars performed in real world conditions. When GM decides to host a test drive at an airstrip, call me, but this didn’t really do it for me.

But overall, the 2009 New England International Auto Show was a huge success. It is an event that thousands of fellow enthusiasts mark on their calendars each winter, and now it’s just a matter of waiting 364 days until the next time the world’s leading auto manufacturers ride into Boston.

It’s putting the key in the ignition after the day hasn’t gone as planned. It’s the urge that overcomes you to go somewhere other than where you are. It’s those cool Sunday afternoons that beg you to open the windows so your hair can blow in the wind. It’s the longest way down winding roads and interstate on-ramps with tight curves that have your car hugging the road while you sit back in your seat. It’s the thrill of merging quickly into rush hour traffic then slicing through it like a hot knife in butter and glancing in your rear view mirror at those left in your wake. It’s to your favorite music at the moment thumping through the speakers while rowing effortlessly through the gears. It’s to pressing down the gas pedal and watching the speedometer creep over the limit as your worries temporarily disappear. It’s one of my favorite ways to clear my head after all these years, it’s driving.

The Diva had her first and only speeding ticket 11 years ago and does not condone (excessive) speeding.

Chances are you don’t drive a BMW, so while you may know they’re a pinnacle of German engineering, they’re sleek, and, oh yeah — fast — they also have some pretty cool gadgetry buzzing around inside there too. From adaptive cruise control that will slow you down when someone stops ahead of you to that driving test savior automatic parallel parking mechanism, there’s enough to make your little Civic tuck its tail between its legs. In fact, luxury cars have a lot of impressive technology tucked beneath their hoods.

Take the night vision-technology that comes, optionally, built into these vehicles. In its first incarnation, night vision cameras could see the road ahead of you by amplifying the ambient light and displaying the resulting picture on a dashboard LCD. Later developments added infrared sensing, which blasts the road directly in front of you with IR light to see when ambient conditions are dark, to far-IR temperature detecting.

The system detects changes in temperature to help you distinguish between a parked car, a deer, or a human. Better yet, the imaging software from Autoliv can recognize the heat patters, and display a "pedestrian" warning as well as tinting the person standing in front of you in yellow to make them stand out on the black and white display.

Of course, the biggest downfall to these systems is that you have to pull your eyes off the road to use them. Its one thing to glance down at your speedometer, but it’s a whole another thing to try and process images from a screen and maintain safe control of your vehicle. In the future, the company might integrate the warnings onto a heads-up-display across the windshield, which is equal parts futuristic and cool.

Several years ago, cruise control was a fancy gadget relegated only to the most expensive luxury vehicles. Now, you’ll find it on just about every car. Luxury offerings have a way of trickling down to the average consumer, and mabye one day, you’ll climb into a night-vision equipped Civic.

(image via)

Most performance-enhancing aftermarket products can be found under the hood of a vehicle, but they can also come in the form of replacement hoods, body parts and even wheels. (Media credit/ARA)

(ARA) — Did you miss “Cash for Clunkers?” A recent study from RL Polk found that the average age of both cars and light trucks is at an all-time record high at 9.4 and 7.5 years, respectively.

Those looking to re-energize these rides with a bit more power may want to consider installing a performance-enhancing aftermarket product. Thousands of such products are available to bring new life to a tired car or truck, and many are designed to elevate the car’s performance beyond what it was capable of in the first place. Here are just a few ideas:

Bolt-on power

A carefully designed intake system combined with a high-flow air filter can add significant horsepower to any car or truck. Combined with a performance exhaust system, gains can be as high as 25 horsepower or more on some engines. Because these changes offer a good return for relatively small investment, they are among the most common bolt-on upgrades on an older car or truck.

Lighten up

Another easy way to improve performance is to replace heavy original parts with lighter ones. Replacement hoods and body parts made from carbon fiber and other light-weight materials are available for almost any vehicle, as are wheels that weigh less than the ones from the factory.

Handling products

Improving handling is an often-overlooked form of performance. It’s rare to find a car that came with high-performance shocks or struts, and after a few years, the original suspension can wear significantly. By installing new, specially-tuned shocks, bushings and springs, a car can handle even better than it did when it was new. Another easy way to improve handling is by adding better brakes. These are widely available in bolt-on form, which allow for upgrading older cars to disc brakes, or adding specially designed brake pads, stronger calipers, and longer, better vented discs.

Turbochargers and superchargers

For those who are serious about improving power, turbochargers that force more air into the combustion chamber can add 50 to 100 more horsepower. It’s possible to replace the original turbo with a bigger or more efficient one, or add a turbo where no turbo was offered. Superchargers, another high-performance option, are commonly offered by manufacturers in their specialty high-performance cars and trucks.

For trucks and 4x4s

Replacing an easily-clogged air filter with a reusable one can save a lot on a truck that sees extreme duty. A wide variety of electric fans and auxiliary coolers allows trucks to pull more and work harder without overheating. For trucks and 4x4s, stronger axles, lower gears and better suspensions are available for models dating all the way back to World War II.

Generally performance parts come in kit form, with instructions and an 800-number to call for advice, so there are a lot of products that can be installed by the average backyard mechanic.

That said, most performance upgrades are best handled by a professional installer who has all the right tools, including a lift and service bay and experience with the type of job at hand. Visit www.enjoythedrive.com for information on the latest aftermarket performance parts and installers.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

From an early age, the love for all things powered by horsepower pumped through my veins. I was the baby in stroller at the drags, the toddler at the car shows and the young girl with pigtails on a Saturday night surrounded by muscle cars at a local hang out. I could point out each car giving specific details and tell you that in my own personal opinion, nothing sounded quite like a 5.0 Mustang. For the record, the sound of a v8 Mustang with a Flow Master exhaust still makes me stop and listen until it’s out of range.

I admit to being overwhelmed with facts and what sometimes seemed trivial information as to how much horsepower a certain car produced or what a zero-to-sixty time was but somehow those facts were burned into my memory. Now those random facts flow in the most startling conversations I have with the male population to just to make them walk away scratching their heads.

Often referred to as the son my father never had, I can proudly say that when the hood is open I know exactly what everything is and what purpose it serves. I’ve changed my own oil, fixed my radiator, replaced hoses, I even helped put a center stand on a Honda CBX( my mother loves to refer to it as giving birth to a double breasted Yamaha), replaced sensors, and I’m sure other random maintenance that most people pay for. I like knowing that I can do it. Doesn’t mean I don’t pay someone to do it for me now though.

I am not limited to cars. I love big trucks with souped up Duramax Diesels, Semi’s with ridiculous Detroit Diesels, motorcycles, airplanes “" if it can get me to where I am going then I am pretty sure I know enough about it.

It’s an appreciation and I owe this to my Dad who delightfully instilled this fascination with all things performance and of course the inability own to a car for more than two years.

A 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge and a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda are the favorite muscle cars of the Diva of Driving.

The driving dilemma for so many young Bostonians is simple. We love to drive, but we don’t have a car. And considering how much I love singing Taylor Swift at the top of my lungs when I’m driving in a car “" even when I forget that I have the windows down “" this is a sad plight indeed.

But no matter how much I try to justify it to myself, I just don’t have that much of a reason to personally have a car. I ride my bike around town eight months out of the year and curse the MBTA’s existence the other four. Cambridge, the place I call home, is replete with bike lines on practically every major thoroughfare, and Boston is certainly attempting to get there too. And when all else fails, I’m always up for a lovely stroll through town. It’s Boston, after all!

But there are times when it’s clear that I need a car. Like for my frequent trips to Ikea. Or like every eight or so weeks when I go on a massive grocery shopping binge because I hate walking back and forth between the grocery store, even though its only ten minutes away form my house. Or like every eight weeks when I do the laundry because I hate doing laundry with every fiber of my being.

Luckily for those times, there’s Zipcar. If you’ve been living underneath a rock, I’ll “" pardon the pun “" zip Zipcar up for you. The Cambridge based and founded company allows licensed drivers aged 21 and over to rent a wide variety of cars parked all over the city by the hour or by the day.

If you’re feeling eco-conscious, grab Prius Pete “" every Zipcar has an adorable, alliterative name “" from the Genzyme Garage in Kendall Square for $7 per hour. If you’re feeling flashier, grab Baker the BMW 328 for $13 per hour from the Boston Common garage.

To become a Zipcar member, users pay a $50 annual fee to join. For those who only grab a car every now and then, they pay the hourly or day-rate for whichever vehicle they want. For those who drive more often, users can make a minimum monthly commitment, and cash in on discounted rates. Every reservation includes 180 miles of driving, a gas card to fill the car up “" and make sure to use it any time the vehicle falls beneath a quarter tank! “" insurance to cover your indiscretions, and a parking pass if the Zipcar lives in a non-free lot.

Users make a reservation, tap their RFID-tagged Zipcard on the windshield to unlock the vehicle, which already has the key inside the ignition. They then zip around town, and then lock it up when finished by tapping their Zipcard on the windshield again.

Car sharing is as simple as the name sounds. The cars are meant to be parked near where users will need them. Because everyone pays a membership fee, they all in a way jointly own and share the vehicles. Everyone is expected to fill the gas when it gets low, keep the car relatively clean, and keep it from being damaged. Zipcar will even reimburse users that pay for a carwash. Another big part of car sharing is making sure the vehicle is where it’s supposed to be. When Zipcar says your reservation is over at 6:00 PM, they mean 6:00 PM, sharp. If you haven’t locked your car up by then, you’ll get a late fee. Get enough late fees, and Zipcar will suspend you from driving.

Obviously, I don’t want to turn you off from Zipcar. You have to really piss someone off to actually get your account suspended, and because it’s a car sharing program after all, users are usually rather fanatic and therefore largely respectful of the rules. Overall, Zipcar is simple, effective, and much better than having a car and insurance payment every month “" plus, for me at least, it’s the closest I’ll ever get to driving a Beamer before I can ever afford one of my own.

While Zipcar got its start in Cambridge back in 2000, it has since spread to 49 cities across the world. Zipcar was founded by residents Robin Chase and Antje Danielson who based the company on car-sharing programs similar to those in Europe. By the end of 2002, the company had 6,000 users in Boston, D.C., and New York.

Zipcar got its start by stocking different neighborhoods with different cars, giving each area it’s own identity. In Cambridge, home to the recycling, biking, hippie granola crunchy type, the company filled the neighborhood with gas-sipping Priuses. In the Back Bay, Zipsters were more likely to want a showier convertible Mini-Cooper for weekend trips to the Cape.

Now in 2009, Zipcar has merged with former rival Flexcar, and now commands a fleet of 6,000 vehicles for 675,000 users in places as far as Ann Arbor, Mich., Tuscaloosa, Alab., and even across the pond in London. In fact, in one of the tougher economic times we’ve seen, Zipcar is preparing itself to go public, and is launching an IPO in 2010. The company is constantly adding cars to its fleet and expanding its user base. With the influx of cash from an IPO, Zipcar really will be going places.

What makes Zipcar so special is its amazing blend of cute personality, sharp business prowess, and of course, cutting edge technology. The technology starts when you try to start the car. Sitting in the upper right corner of every Zipcar is a little black box. When you tap your Zipcard on the windshield above it, the system sends out a signal to Zipcar HQ over EVDO “" yes, that ancient data technology your old cell phone used to run “" that matches your card to a reservation to a specific Zipcar. When everything aligns correctly, the black box unlocks the car door, the black box releases the kill switch on the engine, and you get in and drive off.

The black box is also hooked into the on-board diagnostics system, or OBD. When my Zipcar wouldn’t start on a particularly cold January night, I called Zipcar, and the helpful man on the phone could already tell me that I had killed the car battery by leaving my headlights during my quick trip into Trader Joe’s. If you somehow lock your Zipcard inside the vehicle, a quick phone call to Zipcar customer service can unlock it. Likewise, the black box has a simple GPS system so that the vehicles can be located should they wander off and get lost. The same kill switch that keeps the car from being stolen can also kill the car should it somehow manage to drive off.

However, the newest technology debuted at the tail-end of September is, of course, Zipcar’s new iPhone app. Up to now, users have had to make reservations though the Zipcar website, the mobile website, or over the phone. Both of the websites are robust, AJAXy, and a breeze to use. The phone however, well, lets just say it’s not Zipcar’s fault if you’re using a technology from the 19th century.

But now with the magic of the Zipcar iPhone app, users can locate themselves on a map of all of Zipcar’s offerings, make a reservation, and even unlock the car from inside the application. When I did just that with my iPhone app, I almost cried from the sheer amazingness of what I’d just done. It also made me feel amazingly futuristic, despite the fact that we’re all supposed to have personal jetpacks in the future. And OK, fine, people have been able to remotely unlock cars since OnStar in the 90s, but that still required calling someone who was sitting at a computer somewhere in Arizona. Now, I can do it from my touch screen god-phone.

Using the rest of the app was just as easy as you would expect Zipcar to make it. Making my reservation was a breeze. The app grayed out all Zipcar lots that didn’t have a car that matched my time reservation. If you needed the exact location of a Zipcar lot, the app would send the exact coordinates to your Maps application which would then direct you to the lot. While my reservation as open, I could extend the time I needed the car from inside the app as well.

Zipcar polled its users and found that 25% of them had an iPhone, hence releasing their first app on Apple’s platform. Everyone else without an iPhone can still use the mobile website to make reservations. Also, once you’ve given Zipcar your cell phone number, they’ll send you text message reminders about your reservations. You can then extend your reservation just by texting Zipcar back. “Ext30m” will get you an extra half-hour to get back while “End today 4pm” will do just what it says.

Zipcar has always been a company to embrace technology, and now every car in their fleet now comes equipped with an auxillary cord to plug into your iPod or mp3 player of choice, so you can jam out to Taylor Swift, or any other embarrassing musical offering you might enjoy. Every car has a toll-tag that auto-magically bills your Zipcar account for the tolls.

Another thing that’s hard to ignore about Zipcar is that the company is rather green”"and we’re talking about more than its logo. Like I said before, I only drive a Zipcar when I really need one. But if I had a car of my own, I’d probably take a lot more places. That means I’m driving more, burning more gas, and doing my part to warm the earth with more carbon dioxide. When you factor in people who just use Zipcar instead of owning a car, that’s a lot fewer miles being driven out there.

Zipcar recognizes this, and discounts the Priuses in its fleet more than the other vehicles. Zipcar even ran a “low-car diet challenge” which in return for media coverage, encourage drivers to hang up their keys for a month and ride public transit or use a Zipcar when absolutely necessary. While the miles saved from these twelve users is merely a minuscule blip in the amount of carbon spewed into the atmosphere by the millions of drivers in the U.S. every day, the ideas are still a good one. It’s also a counter intuitive notion, considering that Zipcar essentially makes its money when people drive, but it’s just the good-nature of the company. When was the last time you saw gas companies encouraging eco-consciousness?

Zipcar is here for good it seems, and that’s something that I, and thousands of other users certainly embrace. While Zipcar advertises through print frequently, a lot of Zipcar’s brand strength comes through word of mouth. Zipcar user Matthew Lasek shared just such a story. “About two weeks ago I rented a Volvo and zipped to the hardware store to fill up on more paint, brushes and cleaner to remove all the paint I would inevitably spill. While locking the car a 65 year-old woman asked ‘So how does Zipcar work?’” Lasek then explained the entire membership and rental rental process to the questioning woman, Brookline resident Lauren Smith, who lamented how expensive it is to rent a cart through a traditional car service and how she hated asking her daughter to drive her on her errands.

When asked to sum up the Zipcar experience, Lasek put it like this: “I think this is what Zip Car is: freedom. This strong and able senior wanted to have the freedom to do something as simple as go to Johnny’s Fresh Market; while my exploits in Zipcars to the beach or Six Flags are a little more adventurous, the fact remains that Zipcar lets us do things that our own two legs can’t, or what our wallets would prohibit.”

Images courtesy Zipcar, the author, and Flickr users Andrew Currie, rakka, reinvented, and scoobyfoo.

(ARA) – Everyone’s jumping on the environmental bandwagon, but if you don’t drive a hybrid, how can you make your car more environmentally friendly? Try looking at where the rubber meets the road: your tires.

Admittedly, tires aren’t the sexiest things, but recent technological advances have made them easier on the planet.

The dB Super E-spec tires from Yokohama are made with orange oil, which replaces much of the normally-used petroleum. This new tire represents one of the biggest breakthroughs in tire making since the more than century-old discovery of vulcanized rubber. It certainly gives new meaning to the common auto phrase, “peel out.”

“We’re trying to help save the planet, one orange oil tire at time,” said Yokohama’s Mark Chung. “Essentially, the Super E-spec blends renewable natural rubber with the orange oil extracted from peels at juicing plants. This combo makes the tire 80 percent petroleum free, which is great for the environment.”

“Folks can also save cash at the gas pump because the orange oil tires are lighter and more fuel efficient. Every gallon of gas saved by the Super E-spec means 20 fewer pounds of CO2 released into the atmosphere,” said Chung.

Another way fuel efficiency is achieved is through proper tire inflation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that approximately 37 million cars and 29 million trucks have underinflated tires. According to AAA, a motorist who drives an average of 12,000 miles annually on tires that are underinflated by five to eight psi (pounds per square inch) is wasting up to 50 gallons of gasoline, equating to $141.50 (at $2.83 a gallon) a year. That’s more than half the cost of a week’s worth of groceries ($226) for a family of four, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Yokohama offers additional earth-friendly tips:

• Once a month, check tire inflation when the tires are cold (at least three to four hours after the vehicle has been driven) check tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Be sure that the valve stems have a plastic or metal cap to keep dirt out and seal against leakage.
• Tires should be rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles and the alignment should be checked once a year. Misaligned tires can cause the car to scrub, which lowers mileage and causes unnecessary tire wear.
• An overinflated tire changes and increases wear on the center of the tread. A tire is designed to run with the vehicle’s weight spread correctly in the road contact zone.
• Clean or replace your air filter. A clogged air filter blocks the air needed to burn fuel efficiently which wastes gas.
• Keep your car tuned up according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule and you’ll keep all systems in good working order, which can optimize your mileage.
• Slow down. For every five miles per hour you go above 60 mph, you’re lowering your gas mileage and, ultimately, paying even more for each gallon of gas.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tinting your car is a pain in the ass. One mistake, and it’s ruined.

And nothing looks worse than a bubbled up blue tinted Walmart job. Of course, the bright side is that even if you completely muck up your tints, you can always peel them off and try again.

“Everybody has to try it once,” said Rick Maas, the owner of Eastern Glass Tinting Co. “That’s how I got started. My father was in the business, and I used to take the scraps and practice.”

Practice makes perfect. This is one of the few times we’ll tell you to just suck it up and call a professional. If you’re going to add tints, you want to do it right.

So we went to Rick.

Stuff for Your Car #3: The Tint Job

About two hours — $220 — Call a pro

Tinting adds a lot to the look of your car, and it keeps some of the rays out as an added bonus. It’s also good for some privacy here in Boston, since many of us have to park on the street.

There are other arguments that tinting helps glass stay together in an accident, so it doesn’t spray all over you or passengers and that tinted windows will prevent fading or cracking on leather seats.

Keep in mind that states have laws about tinting, especially concerning passenger cars. In Massachusetts, aftermarket tinting must allow more than 35 percent of light in on the front and rear side windows. The rear window can be tinted right down to the 35 percent level. You can’t add any reflective tint to your windshield, but most windshields already have the six inches of non-reflective tinting allowed.

And that’s just another reason why going to a pro is recommended. We’ve actually seen cops force people to peel their illegal tints off their windows. So even if you get out all the dust and bubbles, you might still be screwed.

Maas takes his time, using one spray bottle to get dirt and dust off and another to help the tinting film attach to the window. He didn’t say what was in the bottles.

He started by cleaning the outside of the windows and applying a square piece of film to the outside of the windows, carefully tracing a cutout. Then he put the cutouts on a large sheet of thick glass in the shop and flattened it out, making sure it was perfect.

Then he thoroughly cleaned the inside of each window and applied the film slowly, going over it several times to make sure all the bubbles were out.

If you try tinting on your own, make sure you don’t skimp on the cleaning, and don’t use cheap paper towels that leave lint. If there’s anything but glass on the surface, the tint film will stick to it, and you might as well take a picture and post it on the FAIL blog.

Maas did the same thing for the rear window, applying the film to a clean outside of the window first for measurement before applying it on the inside.

He warned against rolling down the windows all the way for about 48 hours, and he was done. The job took just under two hours. Maas charges $220 for a complete car.

After two weeks, there are no bubbles.

Eastern Glass Tinting Co. has locations in Charlestown and Marshfield and can be reached at 617-912-1040.

Changing your car’s air filter is one of the easiest car maintenance tasks you can perform.

You should never, ever pay someone to do this for you.

You could go to a quickie lube place and pay the guy to do it for you, or you could take one minute of your life and do it for free.

Stuff for Your Car #2: Replace the air filter

1 minute — Less than $20 — Anyone can do it

To change your air filter, make sure the car is off. Pop the hood. On cars like the 9th Generation Toyota Corolla, the air box is located on the driver’s side in the front of the compartment. It’s secured by two clips.

Take off the clips and remove the old dirty air filter. Pull out any leaves or waste in the box. Drop a new filter in. Close the box. Secure the clips. And you’re done.

You don’t need any tools. You don’t need any technical know-how. You aren’t going to damage your car. If you’re really worried, you can disconnect your battery first, but there’s really no need.

I replaced my used Denso stock filter with a K&N air filter. K&N air filters are made of washable cotton fiber and are cleanable and reusable. In fact, the company offers a 1,000,000 mile warranty on an air filter.

Click here for more information on K&N filters.

K&N also claims that their filters trap dirt and bad stuff while allowing more air to get through to your engine, increasing horsepower.

I don’t have any way of verifying this, and I’ve read every side of the argument on Toyota Nation forums. I’m going to agree with several other people who have tried K&N filters — I noticed slightly better throttle response, especially at the low end. The biggest difference I noticed was that the car doesn’t seem to lunge forward in first gear going from a standing start, but that could just be in my head.

I’m happy with my K&N, and happiest that I only need to clean it every 50,000 or so miles.

And most importantly, whether we’re using a K&N or any other brand, we can change it out ourselves instead of paying some guy.

Blast recently interviewed Clark Campbell, the Motorsport Manager of Volkswagen of America about the Jetta TDI Cup, which is making stops in Boston later this summer and in the fall.

We also asked him about a local racer, Theresa Condict, of Lexington, who’s taking part in the series.

BLAST: So what brings VW to Boston? When are the events in the Boston area?

CLARK CAMPBELL: We’re partnering with Boston’s F1 Outdoors to host a karting qualifier competition that will serve as a method of entry to the series for 2010. There will be six events: Aug. 3 & 17; Sept. 21 and another September date TBD; and October 12 and another October date TBD. The standouts from this competition will qualify for our 2010 driver selection event, and one competitor from the karting events will even have his or her ride funded for 2010, which is a value of $45,000.

BLAST: Why Boston?

CC: The F1 Outdoor facility is one of the best karting locations anywhere, and their leaders have been very supportive of our program. They want to help us grow and also have a place to have their talented drivers to advance to. Fortunately, we’re able to help each other accomplish our goals.

BLAST: Tell us about local girl Theresa Condict! What kind of a racer is she? Are you starting to see more and more women in the sport?

CC: Theresa is quite the competitor. She doesn’t have the racing experience that some of our drivers do, but you wouldn’t know that by talking to her. She’s really jumped in with two feet this year, and tried to learn everything she can, and I think that’s showing each weekend at the race track. It’s been fun to watch her progress.

I think we’re definitely starting to see more women in all forms of motorsports. The gender barriers have definitely been broken, and racing is something that’s being thought of as a women’s activity, even in the karting ranks today. A series like the SCCA Pro Racing Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup is a perfect stepping stone for a young female driver to move from karting into full bodied race cars, and gain some valuable exposure with a focus aimed towards a professional driving career.

BLAST: What is the goal of the VW TDI Cup Series?

CC: There are two main goals of the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup series. One is to showcase the power and benefits of Volkswagen’s clean diesel engine technology. Our race cars are achieving more than 20 mpg on the racetrack, and that’s unheard of in motorsports. Plus, these cars can get up and go because of the high torque characteristics of diesel engines. Our lap speeds generally average between 70-80 mph. Secondly, we’re hoping to advance the careers of young drivers. When drivers enter our series, they’re amateurs, but at the end of one season, they earn their pro license. This definitely allows the drivers to start looking more into the professional arena. Our top two drivers from the 2008 season both found professional-level rides in more advanced series, and we’re really proud of that. Our Champion, Josh Hurley is racing in the Grand-Am Koni Challenge series, and our runner up, Liam Kenney is racing in the ADAC Formula Masters Series in Europe.

BLAST: Has publicity and media coverage grown with the series?

CC: Yes, the amount of attention we receive when in a race market has definitely grown as we’re able to race at new tracks and expose new markets to the unique qualities of our racing. People can’t believe that we’re racing mostly stock Jettas and that we’re able to run an entire race weekend on only four gallons of fuel.

BLAST: A few years ago you made the move into the racing division of VW full time. So this series is like your baby? Are you happy with its development so far?

CC: Well, the series is still in it’s infancy really, so I guess you could say that. It has taken a tremendous effort from a very dedicated crew to get it where is it today in less then 2 years. But when we get to the race track and get to witness the excitement of the competition, it’s definitely worth it. Plus, our ultimate goal is to sell cars, and Volkswagen’s diesel sales in June were the best that they’ve ever been since we reintroduced diesel cars into the market. So, when you can see that there’s a direct connection between your work and the company achieving its goals, that’s always a good thing. We are very happy so far, but looking for even better things in the coming seasons.

Theresa Condict, 22, began racing on the local and regional autocross scene in 2004. Since then, she’s continued to compete in these events and won an SCCA solo national championships in her class in 2008. Last year, she also began competing in local karting events. She graduated from McGill University in 2008 with a degree in physics, which she believes helps her better understand vehicle dynamics. In the future, Condict hopes to follow in the footsteps of her racing hero, Lyn St. James, and compete in the IndyCar Series.

I’m sick and tired of nobody in Boston covering automotive anymore. Seriously. No more car reviews in the Boston Globe!

We could go on the interwebs for our data, and if you’re reading this you are going on the web because we DON’T PRINT Blast.

I took things into my own hands, took one for the team and did the only logical thing I could think of: I bought a car.

I did it for you, really. I traded in my dad’s old 2000 Ford Ranger for a 2008 Toyota Corolla (yeah, I’m ballin’ now, homes). It’s my first car. All previous vehicles were parental hand-me-downs. So this is something special. And since I’m single, I’m going to spoil my new car with gifts and toys and upgrades.

But I’m not going to chrome her out or put on decals and racing stripes. I’m not going on Ebay for a $2,000 “supercharger.” I’m not going to outfit it with 18″ rims that spin when the car is stopped. I’m a fucking journalist. I don’t have money for that shit, anyway.

So, over the next few weeks I’ll be doing some reasonable and practical things, taking pictures, consulting with experts and providing some step-by-step info on how you can do the same.

Some of the things to look for: Air filters, headlights, tinting do’s and don’ts, efficient use of trunk space, the oil, and more.

Let’s start simple.

The Corolla is the top selling car in America, and these tips are good for the 9th Generation Corolla. Consult your local Google for other cars before trying this at home.

Stuff for Your Car #1: Replace the cabin air filter

5 minutes — Less than $20 — Anyone can do it

I was shit-scared when I started these projects. I don’t tinker with cars. I’m Generation Y. We don’t change our own oil anymore or do our own tuneups. We go to Jiffy Lube and Firestone and pay good money to guys that drive better cars than us so that they can do all that stuff. My Firestone guy drives a BMW, by the way.

There’s also been a lot of talk about cabin air filters lately, and I figured that since I bought a slightly used car with just under 20,000 miles on it, that I might as well change it up. Rather than pay someone to do it, the really helpful people on Toyota Nation posted a ridiculously easy-looking do it yourself guide.

The photo gallery above will run you though it.

I paid $15.99 for an STP filter at AutoZone. You could also go to Home Depot and buy a home A/C filter and cut it to size. You don’t really need to get fancy. Some people even say to stick a dryer sheet or two under the filter. I don’t like the idea. The fewer chemicals in my air, the better. Most new filters are white. Some contain activating carbon that turns it gray.

Open the glove box. There’s one black screw and some tabs holding it on. Remove the screw with a phillips screwdriver, and it comes off easy.

Your cabin air filter is in the rectangle above the cylinder marked “Toyota.” Push the tabs, and the cover comes right off. Just go easy. You’re not going to zap yourself or break anything.

The old, dirty filter slides right out. Now, a lot of dealerships are smart, and they’ll replace the cabin filter when they “re-certify” the car so you have good smelling air and powerful air conditioning. Mine was, as you can see, not new. But it wasn’t in terrible condition.

Slide the new filter in, replace the cover, replace the glove box and screw, and you’re done!

Toyota recommends replacing the cabin filter every 20,000 miles. It’s really up to you. I have allergies to things like dust, so I’ll be aggressively replacing it.

Special thanks to Exage on Toyota Nation.

Dear EarthTalk: With all the talk of rising seas, what could happen to the rivers that flow into the oceans? Will they reverse flow? Will rising seas back up into fresh water lakes? And what happens to our groundwater should saltwater flow backwards into it? – Sandy Smith, concerned Michigander

The intrusion of saltwater from the sea into rivers and groundwater is a serious issue, but the threat is not from a reversal of flow, and our far inland lakes and rivers are not expected to be directly affected by the salty water of our oceans. However, the sensitive areas around the edges of our continents, where fresh water meets salt water, are at risk, and greater efforts must be taken to protect them. Some 40 percent of world population lives less than 40 miles (60 kilometers) from the shoreline.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global average sea levels should rise eight to 34 inches by the year 2100, a much faster pace than the four to 10 inch increase of the past century. Seas rise because of higher global temperatures, melting mountain glaciers and polar ice caps, and other factors. Higher temperatures also cause thermal expansion of ocean water, intensifying the problem.

Rising sea levels cause major problems as they erode and flood coastlines and, yes, as they mix salt water with fresh. A November 2007 article in ScienceDaily posited that coastal communities could face significant losses in fresh water supplies as saltwater intrudes inland. And whereas it had been previously assumed that salty water could only intrude underground as far as it did above ground, new studies show that in some cases salt water can go 50 percent further inland underground than it does above ground.

Salty water invading groundwater can reach not only residential water supplies but intakes for agricultural irrigation and industrial uses, as well. Economic effects include loss of coastal fisheries and other industries, coastal protection costs, and the loss of once-valuable coastal property as people move inland.

Estuaries at the mouths of rivers have in the past handled rising ocean levels. Sediment that accumulates along the edge of an estuary can raise the level of the land as the sea levels rise. And mangrove swamps, which buffer many a coastal zone around the world, flourish in brackish conditions. But because of our preference for living in coastal areas, and our habit of re-engineering our surroundings accordingly, humans make matters worse by preventing natural processes from managing the change. On the coast, we build roads and buildings, and replace natural buffers like mangrove swamps with dikes and bulkheads to control flooding, which make the problem worse by preventing beach sediment from collecting. And as we dam rivers and create reservoirs, we trap the sediment that would naturally flow down to the sea.

In some places, changes are happening. Governments are beginning to restrict or prohibit building in setback zones along the coast where risk of erosion is the greatest. A newer policy of “rolling easements” is also being tried, where developers are allowed to build in restricted zones but will be required to remove the structures if and when they become threatened by erosion. The IPCC recommends more drastic actions, such as creating more marshes and wetlands as buffers against the rising level of the sea, and migrating populations and industry away from coastlines altogether.

CONTACTS: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, www.ipcc.ch.

Dear EarthTalk: Is it better to drive an older, well-maintained car that gets about 25 miles per gallon, or to buy a new car that gets about 35 miles per gallon? — Edward Peabody, via e-mail

It definitely makes more sense from a green perspective to keep your old car running and well-maintained as long as you can-especially if it’s getting such good mileage. There are significant environmental costs to both manufacturing a new automobile and adding your old car to the ever-growing collective junk heap.

A 2004 analysis by Toyota found that as much as 28 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions generated during the lifecycle of a typical gasoline-powered car can occur during its manufacture and its transportation to the dealer; the remaining emissions occur during driving once its new owner takes possession. An earlier study by Seikei University in Japan put the pre-purchase number at 12 percent.

Regardless of which conclusion is closer to the truth, your current car has already passed its manufacture and transport stage, so going forward the relevant comparison has only to do with its remaining footprint against that of a new car’s manufacture/transport and driver’s footprint-not to mention the environmental impact of either disposing of your old car or selling it to a new owner who will continue to drive it. There are environmental impacts, too, even if your old car is junked, dismantled and sold for parts.

And don’t forget that the new hybrids-despite lower emissions and better gas mileage-actually have a much larger environmental impact in their manufacture, compared to non-hybrids. The batteries that store energy for the drive train are no friend to the environment-and having two engines under one hood increases manufacturing emissions. And all-electric vehicles are only emission-free if the outlet providing the juice is connected to a renewable energy source, not a coal-burning power plant, as is more likely.

If you want to assess your current car’s fuel efficiency or emissions, there are many services available online. The government website FuelEconomy.gov provides fuel efficiency stats for hundreds of different vehicles dating back to 1985. Websites TrackYourGasMileage.com and MPGTune.com can help you track your mileage and provide ongoing tips to improve fuel efficiency for your specific make and model vehicle. MyMileMarker.com takes it a step further, making projections about annual mileage, fuel costs and fuel efficiency based on your driving habits. If you have an iPhone, you can keep track of your car’s carbon footprint with the new “Greenmeter App” from Hunter Research and Technologies. The program uses numerous variables to make its calculations on-the-go as you drive, including weather conditions, cost of fuel, vehicle weight, and more.

If you simply must change your vehicle, be it for fuel efficiency or any other reason, one option is to simply buy a used car that gets better gas mileage than your existing one. There’s much to be said, from many environmental vantage points, about postponing replacement purchases-of anything, not just cars-to keep what’s already made out of the waste stream and to delay the additional environmental costs of making something new.

CONTACTS: www.fueleconomy.gov; www.trackyourgasmileage.com; www.mpgtune.com; www.mymilemarker.com; Greenmeter App, www.hunter.pairsite.com/greenmeter.

GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php.

Dear EarthTalk: What are “eco-villages?” I’ve heard of one in New York near Ithaca and another one called Arcosanti being built in Arizona.‚ ‚ ‚ – Jim Killian, Brookline, MA‚ ‚ 

Eco-villages are essentially designed communities intending to be socially, economically and ecologically sustainable. Environmentalist Joan Bokaer developed the vision for the first eco-village, which would eventually be built on the outskirts of Ithaca, New York, while on a continent-wide walk for sustainability across the United States in 1990. In Context magazine publisher Robert Gilman helped refine the concept through his research, writing and speaking on the topic. In 1996, the first residents moved into the EcoVillage at Ithaca, and a movement was born. According to the nonprofit Global Ecovillage Network, some 420 eco-villages exist in both urban and rural settings around the world today.‚ 

The defining characteristics of an eco-village, according to Robert Gilman’s seminal 1991 article, “The Eco-Village Challenge,” include “human-scale, healthy and sustainable development, full-featured settlement, and the harmless integration of human activities into the natural world.” Gilman also said that eco-villages should limit their populations to 150 individuals, which is the maximum size for any working social network according to the teachings of sociology and anthropology.‚ 

While the term eco-village did not come into common usage until the 1990s, the concept may in fact be older. Arcosanti, a self-described “experimental town” in the high desert of Arizona, 70 miles north of Phoenix, has been under construction since 1970 and eventually will be the home of some 5,000 forward-thinking residents. In keeping with the concept of clustered development so as to maximize open space and the efficient use of resources, the large, compact structures and large-scale solar greenhouses of Arcosanti occupy a small footprint-only 25 acres-within the community’s 4,000-acre “land preserve.”‚ 

Italian architect Paolo Soleri designed Arcosanti according to his concept of “arcology” (architecture + ecology), whereby, in his words, “the built and the living interact as organs would in a highly evolved being.” Underpinning the concept is that “many systems work together, with efficient circulation of people and resources, multi-use buildings, and solar orientation for lighting, heating and cooling.”‚ 

Those interested in learning more can attend a four-week workshop at Arcosanti to study building techniques and arcological philosophy, while getting a chance to contribute to the city’s ongoing construction. To date, some 5,000 participants have all had a hand in the construction of Arcosanti.‚ 

Some other “intentional communities” designed with sustainability in mind around North America include Cobb Hill in Vermont, Vegan in Hawaii, Dancing Rabbit in Missouri, Maitreya in Oregon, Dreamtime in Wisconsin, Paz in Texas, Earthaven in North Carolina, Prairie’s Edge in Manitoba and Kakwa in British Columbia. For information on these and other eco-villages, the Ecovillage Network of the Americas as well as the Global Ecovillage Network offer extensive resources for free online.‚ 

CONTACTS: EcoVillage at Ithaca, www.ecovillage.ithaca.ny.us; Robert Gilman’s “The Eco-Village Challenge,” www.context.org/ICLIB/IC29/Gilman1.htm; Arcosanti, www.arcosanti.org; Ecovillage Network of the Americas, ena.ecovillage.org; Global Ecovillage Network, gen.ecovillage.org.‚ 

Dear EarthTalk: How can I determine if it is more eco-friendly to fly or drive somewhere?‚ – Christine Matthews, Washington, DC‚ 

The simple answer is that driving in a relatively fuel efficient car (25-30 miles per gallon) usually generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than flying. In assessing the global warming impact of a trip from Philadelphia to Boston (about 300 miles), the environmental news website Grist.org calculates that driving would generate about 104 kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO2)-the leading greenhouse gas-per typical medium-sized car, regardless of the number of passengers, while flying on a commercial jet would produce some 184 kilograms of CO2 per passenger.‚ 

What this also means, of course, is that while even driving alone would be slightly better from the standpoint of greenhouse gas emissions, carpooling really makes environmental sense. Four people sharing a car would collectively be responsible for emitting only 104 kilograms of CO2, while the same four people taking up four seats on a plane would generate some 736 kilograms. ‚ 

Journalist Pablo Pƒ¤ster of Salon.com extends the comparison further to a cross country trip, and comes to similar conclusions. (Differences in the math are attributable to the use of slightly varying assumptions regarding fuel usage and source equations.) Flying from San Francisco to Boston, for example, would generate some 1,300 kilograms of greenhouse gases per passenger each way, while driving would account for only 930 kilograms per vehicle. So again sharing the drive with one or more people would lower each individual’s carbon footprint from the experience accordingly.‚ 

But just because driving might be greener than flying doesn’t mean it always makes the most sense. With current high gas prices, it would cost far more in fuel to drive clear across the United States in a car than to fly non-stop coast-to-coast. And that’s not even factoring in the time spent on restaurants and hotels along the way. Those interested in figuring out driving fuel costs can consult AAA’s nifty online Fuel Cost Calculator, where you can enter your starting city and destination as well as the year, make and model of your car to get an accurate estimate of what filling “Ëœer up will cost between points A and B.‚ 

Once you’ve made your decision whether to drive or fly, consider purchasing carbon offsets to balance out the emissions you are generating with cash for renewable energy development. TerraPass, among others, makes it easy to calculate your carbon footprint based on how much you drive and fly (as well as home energy consumption), and then will sell you offsets accordingly. (Monies generated through carbon offsets fund alternative energy and other projects, such as wind farms, that will ultimately take a bite out of or eliminate greenhouse gas emissions). ‚ 

Of course, an individual’s emissions from riding a bus (the ultimate carpool) or a train (many of which rely solely on electric power generated by their own motion) would be significantly lower. Paster adds that a cross-country train trip would generate about half the greenhouse gas emissions of driving a car. The only way to travel greener might be to bicycle or walk-but the trip is long enough as it is.‚ 

CONTACTS: Grist, www.grist.org, Salon, www.salon.com; AAA Fuel Cost Calculator, www.fuelcostcalculator.com; TerraPass, www.terrapass.com.‚ 

GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php.

Dear EarthTalk: I understand that Toyota is planning to sell a plug-in Prius that will greatly improve the car’s already impressive fuel efficiency.‚  Will I be able to convert my older (2006) Prius to make it a plug-in hybrid vehicle? – Albert D. Rich, Kamuela, HI

Toyota is readying a limited run of a plug-in Prius, which can average 100 miles per gallon, for use in government and commercial fleets starting in 2009. Toyota will monitor how these cars, which will have high efficiency lithium ion batteries that haven’t been fully tested yet, will hold up under everyday use.

Essentially, a plug-in version of the Prius reverses the roles of the two motors under the hood. The regular Prius relies more on its gas engine, switching to (or combining) use of the electric motor in slow traffic, to maintain cruising speed, and when idling or backing up. The car doesn’t need to plug in because its battery stays charged by the gas motor and by the motion of the wheels and brakes. The plug-in will primarily use its electric motor, allowing commuters to go to and from work every day fully on the electric charge, saving the gas engine for longer trips that exceed the distance the car can go on electricity alone.

Toyota has made no announcement yet as to when consumers will be able to buy a plug-in; that depends largely on the results of the field test of the fleet version. But owners of a current or past model don’t need to wait. Those with automotive mechanical skills can convert their Priuses to plug-ins themselves.

“The conversion is an easy DIY [do-it-yourself] project that you can do for about $4,000, if you choose to use sealed lead acid batteries,” says Houston-based Jim Philippi, who converted his Prius last year, using instructions he downloaded for free from the Electric Auto Association’s PriusPlus.org website. Philippi recommends that DIYers consult Google’s RechargeIT.org as well for useful background information.

For those less inclined to a DIY, several companies now sell readymade kits (some also have kits for converting Ford Escape Hybrid SUVs). Ontario-based Hymotion sells plug-in kits for Prius model years 2004-2008 for around $10,000 via contracted distributors/installers in San Francisco, Seattle and elsewhere. Other providers include Plug-In Conversions Corp., Plug-In Supply, EDrive Systems, Energy Control Systems Engineering Inc. and OEMtek. All typically work with select garages that specialize.

One potential worry about conversions is whether or not Toyota will honor the warranty that came with the original vehicle. The California Cars Initiative (CCI), which has converted several hybrids to plug-ins for research and demonstration purposes (sorry, they’re not for sale), says the carmaker needs to clarify the matter, since hybrid cars typically have four or five separate warranties. There is legal precedent, CCI says, that modifications cannot completely void warranties-only the part(s) affected by a retrofit.

If you’re looking to convert, keep in mind that such a move is not about cost-savings, as it will take some time for fuel savings to justify the upfront cost of even a DIY. Most people interested in such a conversion are doing it for the sake of the environment, not their pocketbooks.

CONTACTS: PriusPlus, www.priusplus.org; Plug-In Conversions Corp., www.pluginconversions.com; Plug-In Supply, www.pluginsupply.com; EDrive Systems, www.edrivesystems.com; Energy Control Systems Engineering, www.energycs.com; OEMtek, www.oemtek.com; CCI, www.calcars.org.

GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php.

Dear EarthTalk: Can you recommend some sources for toys and other holiday gifts that are both safe and not harmful to the environment? – Tracy Gately, Marblehead, MA

Given the massive recall of toys contaminated with lead last year, let alone all the other bad news about chemicals seeping out of just about every other conceivable type of consumer item, it’s no wonder that people are nervous about what might be inside the wrapping paper this next holiday season. Luckily, growing environmental concerns-and consumer demand-means that plenty of safe and green-friendly items are available for those willing to do a little more than just walk around the closest shopping mall.

For kids’ items, Oompa Toys (oompa.com) is hard to beat. The Wisconsin-based company offers thousands of child- and Earth-safe items. On Oompa’s easy-to-use website you can buy products ranging from toys, dollhouses and stuffed animals to learning games, musical instruments and art supplies to kitchen play accessories, kids’ furniture and tricycles, many items made with organic or recycled materials.

Another interesting online source for kids’ toys is Washington-based Earthentree (earthentree.com), which sells dozens of pull toys, rattles, stackers and other goodies to stimulate young hands and minds. All of their products are handcrafted by “fair trade” (fairly compensated) artisans in India using sustainably harvested wood and natural vegetable-based dyes. And Hazelnut Kids (hazelnutkids.com) specializes in natural, earth-friendly wooden and organic cotton toys for kids and babies, and even offers gift-wrapping with recycled and recyclable paper.

For grown-up gifts, EcoArtware (eco-artware.com) sells a variety of items made from recycled and natural materials, from bath and kitchen accessories to pet products to jewelry, including many hand-made items. Everybodygreen (everybodygreen.com) is another good source for green-friendly jewelry. The company’s No Plastic charm bracelets are made with corn starch-based resin, natural herbal tea dye and recycled brass. For those holiday parties you might be attending, wine aficionados might appreciate a bottle of Boisset Family Estates’ Yellow Jersey pinot noir (yellowjerseywine.com), which comes from France in a 100 percent recycled (and recyclable) plastic bottle.

Looking for fair trade arts and crafts? Gifts with Humanity (giftswithhumanity.com) sells clothing, home dƒ©cor, jewelry and more from artists in Asia, Africa and Central and South America. Organic Bug (organicbug.com) also sells fair trade items and other natural and organic products from clothing to home dƒ©cor items to travel accessories. Other websites worth visiting for fair trade and/or green-friendly gifts include peacefulvalleygreetings.com, greenfeet.com, pristineplanet.com, nokiagreenstore.com, gaiam.com, acacia.com and vivaterra.com. A simple Google search for “green holiday gifts” will turn up many more.

Another approach to the holidays, of course, for the sake of lessening one’s footprint and tightening the belt in a downturned economy, is to eschew traditional gift-giving in favor of donating to a local or national environmental group in the name of a friend or loved one. This can be accomplished by visiting the websites of your favorite green groups and making your way to their “Donate” page, or by visiting justgive.org or worldofgood.com (by eBay), both which facilitate contributions to worthwhile charities

GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php.