With friends and relatives renting cars while they visit and vacationers renting in sunny vacation spots, summer brings many people into car rental offices — some who might not have much experience car rental.

Rent-A-Wreck has some tips to help consumers get the right car and the best value:

•    Research car rental companies before your trip. Find out what companies are in the area, their rates and their policies. Always ask for hours of operations and return policies. Many rental locations offer a key drop or off-hour returns, but don’t assume that all do.

•    Reserve your car ahead of time and always call the renting location at least a week in advance to confirm the reservation.

•    Check online for discounts and last-minute rates. Also, remember that it’s cheaper to rent a car on weekends and holidays. With 70 percent of the car-rental business geared toward business travelers, the best rates for vacationers are available during non-work times.

•    Look into “neighborhood,” or non-airport, car rental companies. They usually offer more reasonable rates and will often come to the airport to pick you up. Off-airport rental locations have grown in popularity with budget-conscious travelers who take advantage of lower rates resulting from the absence of airport rents, airport taxes and concession fees.

•    Choose the right mileage plan. Many infrequent renters will unnecessarily request unlimited mileage, paying the premium rate. Consider lower mileage packages that might still cover your trip. A car with 100 miles per day built into its price can travel 700 miles in a week — more than double the average amount of miles traveled by U.S. drivers.

•    Pay attention to fuel efficiency. Upgrading to a larger sized vehicle for just $5 to $10 more per day may sound like a good deal, but remember the hidden costs of driving a larger car that is less fuel efficient.

•    Check out the savings between new and used car rentals. In almost every case, you’ll find that a used car rental company such as Rent-A-Wreck provides clean, late-model quality used cars often for half the cost of renting from a new car rental company.

•    Thoroughly inspect the rental car, and circle the block. This mini test drive will allow you to make sure you’re comfortable with your vehicle before you’re on your way. In particular, find the controls for the windshield wipers, lights, emergency and turn signals.

For Rent-A-Wreck’s locations nationwide, call 800-535-1391 or visit www.rentawreck.com.

Savvy Tips for Renting a Car was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

(NewsUSA) – It may be vacation time for kids, but most adults work through the summer months. Firestone Complete Auto Care recommends some commuting tips for everyone who is spending the summer driving to work instead of heading out on vacation: * Keep Your Vehicle in Tip-Top Condition. It is important to keep your vehicle properly maintained. For example, check your tires regularly since they are the only thing connecting your vehicle to the road. You can check your tires’ tread depth with the “penny test.” Insert a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn, and the tire probably needs to be replaced. If you are not certain, have it checked by a tire professional. You should also have your automotive technician make sure that your tires are properly inflated and rotated. In addition, have them check under the hood to evaluate your vehicle’s other major systems. * Commute Comfortably. Wear shoes that are comfortable and safe to drive in — flat shoes with some grip on the soles are ideal. Make any adjustments to your seat or mirrors before you start on your way. * Don’t Be Distracted. Stay focused and do not multitask. Make your daily commute your “quiet time” for the day by turning off your cell phone. Even if your local laws do not require it, if you must talk on your phone invest in a headset so you can focus on the road. Make sure that you can still hear honking horns and sirens while using your headset. * Keep Calm. Consider leaving earlier or researching an alternative route to miss rush hour traffic, holiday traffic or bad weather. If you know that you’re going to be late, accept the delay. Slow down and keep your distance in heavy traffic. Unsafe driving habits such as changing lanes right before or after an intersection or in a school zone, not signaling before a turn, making illegal U-turns and other activities can put you and others at risk. If you are still facing the daily grind this summer, take the time to make your commute a safe and pleasant part of your day.

Next Best Thing to Vacation: A Stress-Free Commute was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Even if you drive a hybrid car, you probably don’t know some basic facts about your car and what makes it work.

Hybrid cars use two separate engines for propulsion, usually an electric motor and a gasoline-powered engine. And while auto companies usually act as if hybrids are all the same, they come in three main forms: series hybrids, plug-ins and parallel hybrids.

Series hybrids use an electric motor to power a car’s movement – the gas engine just recharges the electric battery. In plug-in hybrids, the electric engine’s battery can be charged directly through an electric outlet. The car is propelled by the electric motor alone, and most plug-ins also include a combustion engine for battery regeneration.

In parallel hybrids, the electric motor and the internal combustion engine can work both individually or in unison, powering the vehicle for peak performance. For example, Porsche, a company known for building high-performance cars, has developed two completely different hybrid systems – one for the racetrack and one for the road. The road-going vehicle, the Cayenne S Hybrid, uses an advanced full parallel hybrid design with the electric motor between the combustion engine and the transmission.

The Cayenne S Hybrid, a high-performance SUV, is as fast as the V8-powered Cayenne, but is the most fuel-efficient version in the model line-up. The 47 horsepower electric motor is an ideal partner for the 333 horsepower supercharged engine, providing a considerable amount of high torque at low speeds. When working in unison, the two units deliver a maximum system output of 380 brake horsepower and a peak torque of 427 pounds per foot at just 1,000 revolutions per minute.

Given a reserved, moderate style of motoring, as in a residential area, the driver can cover short distances on electric power alone, driving at speeds up to nearly 40 miles per hour. The combustion engine may be completely switched off at speeds of up to 97 miles per hour, being fully disengaged from the drivetrain when no further power is required. In this so-called “sailing mode,” the drag forces exerted by the combustion engine are eliminated in the interest of lower drive resistance and fuel consumption. The Cayenne S Hybrid is the only hybrid capable of this driving mode.

For more information, visit www.porsche.com/usa.

What Exactly is a Hybrid Car? was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

NewsUSA) – Even if you drive a hybrid car, you probably don’t know some basic facts about your car and what makes it work. Hybrid cars use two separate engines for propulsion, usually an electric motor and a gasoline-powered engine. And while auto companies usually act as if hybrids are all the same, they come in three main forms: series hybrids, plug-ins and parallel hybrids. Series hybrids use an electric motor to power a car’s movement — the gas engine just recharges the electric battery. In plug-in hybrids, the electric engine’s battery can be charged directly through an electric outlet. The car is propelled by the electric motor alone, and most plug-ins also include a combustion engine for battery regeneration. In parallel hybrids, the electric motor and the internal combustion engine can work both individually or in unison, powering the vehicle for peak performance. For example, Porsche, a company known for building high-performance cars, has developed two completely different hybrid systems — one for the racetrack and one for the road. The road-going vehicle, the Cayenne S Hybrid, uses an advanced full parallel hybrid design with the electric motor between the combustion engine and the transmission. The Cayenne S Hybrid, a high-performance SUV, is as fast as the V8-powered Cayenne, but is the most fuel-efficient version in the model line-up. The 47 horsepower electric motor is an ideal partner for the 333 horsepower supercharged engine, providing a considerable amount of high torque at low speeds. When working in unison, the two units deliver a maximum system output of 380 brake horsepower and a peak torque of 427 pounds per foot at just 1,000 revolutions per minute. Given a reserved, moderate style of motoring, for example, in a residential area, the Hybrid Manager allows the driver to cover short distances on electric power alone and therefore absolutely free of emissions, driving at speeds of up to nearly 40 mph. The combustion engine may be completely switched off at speeds of up to 97 mph, being fully disengaged from the drivetrain when no further power is required. In this so-called “sailing mode,” the drag forces exerted by the combustion engine are eliminated in the interest of lower drive resistance and fuel consumption. The Cayenne S Hybrid is the only hybrid capable of this driving mode.

Hybrid Cars Are Hot, But What Are They? was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Whether it’s the downturn in the economy or the increasing popularity of DIY television shows, one thing is certain; homeowners are tackling more home projects themselves. A lot of first-timers are learning new skills and using new tools so they can finish projects ranging from simple maintenance and crafts to room renovation.
Most DIYers will begin with the basics — a hammer, screwdriver and measuring tape — and will move onto air-powered tools and electric tools once they feel comfortable. For those looking for a cost-effective and efficient way to get the most from their tool purchases, the first step is to buy an air compressor.
The compressor is the heart of any air-powered system. Air compressors are available in a wide range of sizes and different air delivery capacities. It is important to match the size of the compressor to the types of tools and projects to ensure optimal performance.
While inflating tires, sports balls and air mattresses are the most common tasks performed with a compressor, this piece of equipment can help with so much more. An air compressor is so versatile because it powers a wide array of air tools that operate more quickly and less expensively than traditional power tools. Nailers, blow guns, spray guns, ratchets, impact wrenches and chisels are common air tools. They allow DIYers to more efficiently sharpen mower blades, remove lug nuts to rotate tires, paint furniture, build a deck or fence, install chair rail and crown molding, perform engine repair and more; the possibilities are almost limitless.
Campbell Hausfeld, a manufacturer and marketer of air-powered tools and compressors, has several models available designed for simple applications in the home, garage or workshop. They also offer units for more frequent use such as automotive, lawn equipment and small engine repair.
Air compressors require very little maintenance — users only need to drain the tank after each use to prevent condensation buildup. Discharging the compressed air from the tank is as simple as loosening a valve.
Regardless of the experience level or type of project, homeowners interested in getting more bang for their buck on their next home project should visit www.chpower.com to get started.

Make the Most of Your Next Home Improvement Project was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

NewsUSA) – Beginning with the 2008 model year, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are now standard on all new cars in the United States, but many drivers don’t know about them. Often, drivers are first introduced to TPMS when the icon on their dashboard illuminates, signaling that the air pressure in one or more tires is low — potentially dangerously low. On average, underinflated tires are responsible for nearly 700 vehicle crashes every day. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that, when all passenger vehicles are equipped with TPMS, the number of annual motor vehicle crash fatalities will decrease by about 120, and the annual number of injuries due to motor vehicle crashes will decrease by about 8,500. To help raise awareness about TPMS and the importance of proper tire pressure, Schrader, the pioneer and leading manufacturer of tire pressure monitoring systems, has created TPMSMadeSimple.com. This comprehensive site offers drivers key facts about TPMS, including how it enhances vehicle safety and why it is now mandatory on all U.S. vehicles. In addition to safety information, drivers can also find out how much money they can save with properly inflated tires and how proper inflation helps the environment. If your car is equipped with TPMS, the light will come on when one or more of your tires are at least 25 percent below the recommended inflation pressure. When this happens, take caution and: * Find a safe place to pull off to check your tire pressure. Keep a tire gauge with your set of emergency items in your vehicle. * If the light comes on while driving at highway speed, immediately grab hold of the steering wheel with both hands in case you are experiencing a blow-out (rapid deflation) scenario. Slowly decelerate to a safe speed and find a safe place to pull off to check your tire pressure. * Once checked, if the tires all appear normal, proceed with caution to have your tire pressure checked and filled to the proper tire pressure. This can be done at a gas station or tire service center. * If needed, have the problem tire or tires and the TPMS system serviced at your nearest tire service center. The TPMS light should go off within several minutes of driving on the repaired or re-inflated tires. Visit TPMSMadeSimple.com for more information about TPMS and the importance and benefits of maintaining proper tire pressure.

Are You “Under Pressure”? Don’t Ignore This Dashboard Alert was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

The days are longer, the sun is stronger and beach season is almost here, but getting in shape for summer means more than hitting the gym. It is also important to keep your car in tip-top shape before you get on the highway for an early summer getaway. Firestone Complete Auto Care has the following tips to get your vehicle road-trip ready:

Preparation

•    Before the summer heat hits, be sure to have a full vehicle inspection — including the air conditioner — to be sure it is cooling correctly. Taking this step may help avoid costly repairs.
•    Check all four tires, as well as the spare, at least once a month and before every long trip. Use an accurate tire gauge to make certain your tire pressure is at the recommended level. Also, check the treads using a tread depth indicator.
•    When you are packing up vacation necessities, take care not to overload your vehicle. This could create excessive heat inside your tires and even cause tire failure.
•    Take a few moments to prepare and pack an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries, gloves, simple tools, flares, nonperishable food and water, and, if you have one, your auto club membership card.

Getting on the Highway

•    Use good driving habits. Accelerating quickly and stopping abruptly can prematurely wear out your vehicle’s engine, transmission, tires and brakes.
•    To improve your fuel economy, try to maintain a constant speed in order to reduce strain on your vehicle. Use the cruise control setting when it is safe.
•    Caught in traffic with a rising temperature gauge? To eliminate some engine heat and help prevent your vehicle from overheating, put the vehicle in neutral and give it a little gas.
Just like you invest the time to stay in shape, in your haste to get on the road, don’t forget to take the time to make certain your vehicle is up to the task of safely hauling your family to your vacation destination.

Tips to Get Your Car in Shape for Summer was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

NewsUSA) – The days are longer, the sun is stronger and beach season is almost here, but getting in shape for summer means more than hitting the gym. It is also important to keep your car in tip-top shape before you get on the highway for an early summer getaway. Firestone Complete Auto Care has the following tips to get your vehicle road-trip ready: Preparation * Before the summer heat hits, be sure to have a full vehicle inspection — including the air conditioner — to be sure it is cooling correctly. Taking this step may help avoid costly repairs. * Check all four tires, as well as the spare, at least once a month and before every long trip. Use an accurate tire gauge to make certain your tire pressure is at the recommended level. Also, check the treads using a tread depth indicator. * When you are packing up vacation necessities, take care not to overload your vehicle. This could create excessive heat inside your tires and even cause tire failure. * Take a few moments to prepare and pack an emergency kit, including jumper cables, a flashlight and batteries, gloves, simple tools, flares, nonperishable food and water, and, if you have one, your auto club membership card. Getting on the Highway * Use good driving habits. Accelerating quickly and stopping abruptly can prematurely wear out your vehicle’s engine, transmission, tires and brakes. * To improve your fuel economy, try to maintain a constant speed in order to reduce strain on your vehicle. Use the cruise control setting when it is safe. * Caught in traffic with a rising temperature gauge? To eliminate some engine heat and help prevent your vehicle from overheating, put the vehicle in neutral and give it a little gas. Just like you invest the time to stay in shape, in your haste to get on the road, don’t forget to take the time to make certain your vehicle is up to the task of safely hauling your family to your vacation destination.

Get Your Car In Shape For Summer was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Driving cars = good

Using cell phones = good

Driving cars while using cell phones = not so good

The two activities combined have proven to be a dangerous mix. Just consider these staggering statistics:

• 45% of drivers have been hit or nearly hit by a driver using a cell phone, according to Nationwide Insurance
• Nearly 5,900 people were killed and 515,000 were injured last year in crashes where driver distraction was reported
• 16% of all fatal crashes involved driver distraction in 2008, especially among young drivers

Considering those unfortunate numbers, it may come as no surprise that:

• 80% of Americans favor a ban on texting on cell phones while driving, according to a Nationwide Insurance study
• More than half support a cell phone ban while driving altogether

More and more states are considering taking legislative action and banning cell phone usage while driving. But Instead of waiting for the federal and state governments to make these behaviors illegal, auto insurance provider Nationwide is working toward technological solutions that will help drivers stay connected and safe while driving.

These solutions involve software installed on a phone or Blackberry that recognizes when you’re driving and blocks incoming calls and texts, using an auto-reply message to let your friends know that you’re driving.

Plus, Nationwide plans to offer insurance discounts to drivers who use these devices once they become available.

The potential effects of a cell phone ban while driving are immeasurable – both in lives saves and in decreased insurance costs for consumers.

Do We Really Need a Cell Phone Ban While Driving? was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Car breakdowns are never a good thing. But breakdowns in freezing temperatures and on icy roads are just plain dangerous.

This winter, make sure you and your family are protected when you take to the roads. Get your car checked out by a trusted repair shop as soon as possible.

To help you find the mechanic that’s right for you, check out these 12 car repair shop tips from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE):

1. Don’t Wait ‘Til It’s Too Late: Start shopping for a repair shop before you need one. That means now!

2. Some Solid Advice: Ask your friends for their recommendations and tips for a car repair shop. Or consult local consumer groups.

3. Plan Ahead: Arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you aren’t forced to choose a shop based solely on location.

4. Neatness Counts: Look for a well-organized shop, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.

5. Service With a Smile: Look for a courteous staff, with a service consultant or technicians willing to answer your questions.

6. Read the Fine Print: Look for policies regarding estimated repair costs, diagnostic fees, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment.

7. References, Please: Ask if the repair shop specializes or if it usually handles your type of repair work.

8. Bragging Rights: Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area such as civic, community or customer service awards.

9. A Degree of Success: Look for evidence of qualified technicians: trade school diplomas, certificates of advanced course work, and certification by ASE indicate the presence of professional, trained technicians.

10. It’s a Sign: Look for the ASE sign. ASE was founded in 1972 to improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive professionals. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification, while their employers display the blue and white ASE sign.

11. Open Up and Talk: Be ready to describe any changes in your vehicle’s handling or performance or other issues. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for definitions for any technical terms you find unfamiliar. And while you’re there, ask for some simple car repair tips to get you through the winter.

12. Come Back for More: Reward good service with repeat business and customer loyalty.

Learn more seasonal automotive care and car repair tips from ASE.

12 Must-Read Car Repair Tips to Find a Trustworthy Mechanic was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com