Honda CR-V Through The Various Routes

As smart drivers to avoid congestion on the highways, usually preferred alternative route, and the route is often imperfect because many are damaged and a variety of terrain. The problem can be overcome if driving sports utility vehicles (SUV) because they are robust and comfortable to face the situation.

SUV model that was gaining attention is the Honda CR-V after its introduction a few months ago. Relatively high designed with a combination of big tires makes it easy through potholes without fear bent rims.

Although it is an SUV for urban use, rugged character is embedded as to maintain steady and robust appearance. The look of the Honda CR-V features the latest generation of this more exclusive and futuristic image with designs on a wavy line and recessed body. The latest appearance gives the impression that this machine a little tucked premium image for comparable European SUVs.

Housings front and rear lights give a unique character to give elegance to the model. Arguably, this fourth generation comes with all new components through to small accessories like side mirrors, radio antennas and bumper obviously modern look.

Interior space can also be regarded as the best in terms of points of view, it looks more spacious and comfortable. Instead of wanting more praise this machine, but that is the reality after the test drive of this machine.

In the back seat, the space for the legs very wide and provide comfort for long journeys. In addition, funnel air conditioning for the rear passengers an advantage and comfort when driving in the afternoon with temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celsius. Seat wrapped with fabric material and black colour designed cabin provides pleasant atmosphere, and never have to worry about stains down the components.

The dashboard also received a renewal with matching green ECON button located on the right side of the steering wheel to help optimize fuel consumption automatically. It assisted with Eco Assist System, in which the meter panel illumination ring changes colour from green to white mark is not economical driving. In the middle of the dashboard is equipped with five-inch TFT screen that displays various information such as the level of fuel consumption, clock, audio, adjust settings and view reverse camera.

More interesting, more boot space to 589 litres wide and can be increased to 1,156 litres once the second row seats folded. To fold the rear seat, users only need to pull the lever provided. Once pulled, the seats are folded in a systematic manner.

Steering response quite a bit lighter, thus easier to navigate in the city. Although this vehicle is the SUV category, it can provide stable operation even in the path bends. This suspension system fitted to suit all road conditions and increased system Vehicle Stability Assistance (VSA) for more robust operation. In fact, the front wheels using a McPherson strut suspension system, while the rear is the Reactive Link Double wishbone.

It also does not matter when driven at high speed, but also can compete with other sedans category of vehicles on the highway. As far as 160 kilometres per hour (km / h), this machine does not pose a problem and still stable, but watch out with such speed, because the rate of fuel consumption is high.

SPECIFICATIONS HONDA CR-V

ENGINE: 2.0-liter, SOHC i-VTEC, inline four-cylinder with 16 valves

MAXIMUM POWER: 155 hp at 6,500 rpm

MAXIMUM TORQUE: 190 Nm at 4,300 rpm

TRANSMISSION: Five-speed automatic

SAFETY FEATURES: Air Bag, VSA, ABS, Emergency Stop System (ESS), EBD and BA

Volkswagen Golf Like a Hybrid Machine

Although it is not a category of energy-efficient vehicles (EEV), the level of fuel consumption for the Volkswagen Golf is very economical after equipped with BlueMotion technology. The technology is the benchmark for the Volkswagen brand vehicles to fuel savings, other low carbon dioxide emissions.

Efficiency was proven when it only uses quarter tank for 175 yards with a driving range a little aggressive in a test drive, recently. When test driving this machine, as if driving a hybrid engine because the engine will stop itself when waiting at traffic lights or traffic jams. Air conditioning and audio system still function normally, but the temperature will feel a bit hot if the vehicle is stopped for too long. If you want to turn off the engine system On / Off, the driver can press a button on the gear knob and it will function like other conventional vehicles.

This system is very useful because it can reduce the wastage of fuel consumption when the vehicle is stopped on the road. Handling also not be underestimated as it provides a very enjoyable experience despite not tuned for sporty driving machines such as the Golf GTI variant. Though the engine displacement of 1.4 litres, direct injection system with turbocharger (TSI) provides steady energy, when it supplied 140 PS between 4,500 to 6,000 rpm.

Once press the accelerator pedal, this machine so that sped more than 180 kilometres per hour (km / h) with ease. Despite driving more than 180 km / h, the driver feels as if driving at a speed of 100 km / h for handling remains stable, other silent in the cabin feels as a result of enhanced sound seal. Direct shift gearbox (DSG) seven-speed automatic can be changed to sports mode or manually, either using the knob and paddle behind the steering wheel. Advantages of this gearbox also provides impressive acceleration force with power increased to 250 Nm of torque between 1,500 and 3,500 rpm.

Fame admittedly Volkswagen Golf car enthusiasts. Since its introduction 30 years ago, more than 29 million units of vehicles sold worldwide. Not surprisingly, the design of this machine produced by a combination of two earlier models of the Volkswagen Golf MK II and MK IV a highlight for compact vehicles. 

Although designed for relaxed driving and different with GTI specification, it still looks grand and sporty and aerodynamic. In fact, between the end of the line on the side of the front door to the back makes the profile look neat and sturdy body. The headlights look a bit narrow and connects with the front grille gives a new dimension to the character of the seventh generation of vehicles.

Once tapped into the cabin space, it's packed dark colours and soft material still apply for the dashboard, thus looks premium. Seat covered with fabric material quality, while boot space is also enhanced when it is lower to facilitate unloading users, as well as able to be filled with loads of up to 380 litres. Ideal as premium vehicles, the dashboard features a touch screen by using smart technology to provide convenience to the user. To minimize the space in the centre consul, a place to insert a compact disc is placed in the glove box under the dashboard.

Honda Cars

AS we all know, Honda is a big name in the automotive industry. Variety of products, not only as a car and motorcycle. Even starting from as small generators up to private aircraft. Engineering values ​​of the company, was very large and successful in marketing their products.

Their products are actually a lot of vehicles, some small and large. Just for the global market, only a few models are known to the public. Between the models is the Jazz, Civic and Accord. Civic and Accord for example, has been in the market for decades and is a trailblazer models for the U.S. market.

Recently, Honda has introduced the ninth-generation Accord to the public. The brand new model features an elegant design as a reflection of the tastes of customers. It is to meet the needs of the market who want a car with luxury features, comfortable, style and sophistication. With a completely new design, the Accord also comes with smart driving technology for more responsive performance, safe and fuel efficient. All to meet the green agenda is mainstream in today's automotive world.

With an ideal mix consisting of luxury, elegant, sporty design and aerodynamic characteristics have been improved, the new Accord looks more neat, bold and elegant.

Honda Civic also has a huge legacy. The model was first introduced in 1972 and has sold millions of units worldwide.When first marketed in the United States in the 1970's, the Civic hit because at that time the country was experiencing an oil crisis.

As the legacy and record of good quality, the Civic has a stable resale value. Should know, Civic through several generations have performance model called the Type-R. The model is formally modified by Honda because race is the soul of the company.Not satisfied with the performance model, Honda also pays attention to the environment when they have to market the Civic Hybrid. Thus, the Civic was complete variants for various types of market demands.

When first launched in the U.S, many people have condemned the design, it is not as radical as the previous model. The reason, the design of the new Civic more conservative than the eighth generation model. In fact, if done research on the design of Honda cars, the company's extensive use of the philosophy of evolution than revolution. Many who love the eighth generation Civic as the model features a radical design, completely different than the previous model.

By the ninth generation, Honda reflected back to its core philosophy using the concept of evolution. Eighth generation model has been improved, rough surfaces tempered. Unbalanced aspect adjusted and as a result gave birth to a new Civic with a fresh design, tender and emotional.

You can see through the example of BMW models. Either 3 series, 5 series are identical, respectively, and are known as DNA. New Civic more sexy, emotional and sporty - a feature of the Honda DNA. In other words, I like the Honda Civic as a sporty design. If fitted with Modulo kit, the more striking the Honda DNA.

Fuel-saving technology also advanced, and the shortfall is certainly forgiveable because at the end of the day what matters is that you still have money in your pocket to spend.

Automatic Gear Box Care Tips

1. Check the level and condition of the Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) regularly. Make sure it is at the proper level.  Inadequacy of ATF in the system will cause your gearbox breaks down quickly. If it appears the situation is already dirty ATF and blackish, it is recommended to change it though not until the actual time period. Refer to the user guide supplied to correctly examine ways of ATF and suitable ATF selection for your car.
2. Also check the engine cooling system regularly. This is because the ATF has own path in the radiator to maintain the operating temperature. Concern if there is a leak in this way and will cause water and coolant from the cooling system to sneak in to the gearbox.
3. Check the parking area at home to make sure there is no ATF that oozes to the surface of the car park. If so, send your car immediately to an authorized service centre to find and fix the leak.
4. If your car is equipped with paddle shift, avoid slowing the car with engine Braking is by simply down-shifting without using the brakes. If you do it regularly, it will accelerate the wear on the clutch and band layer in your gearbox.
5. Do not leave the car parked by using only position 'D' without using the parking brake. This is because it will give more stress on the parking sprag rod in the gearbox and could cause it to be broken.
6. Once you reverse the car, make sure the car to a complete stop before changing gears to position 'D'. This will also slow down the process of wearing down the clutch lining in your gearbox.
7. If your car needs to be towed, do not allow the tire to be driven gearbox on the road surface. That is, if your car is front-drive, tow car from the front and let the rear tires touching the back surface. If your car is four-wheel drive, it is advisable to use the services of a tow truck type 'flat-bed' that can lift your car directly on the truck.
8. If you are stuck in the muddy, avoid trying out with the drive itself. This will cause overheating in the gearbox and will damage most of the internal components.
9. When turn on the car in the morning and cold, the engine idle speed will be slightly higher due to rich mixture supplied to the engine so that it is easily turned on and not easy to stop when the engine is not hot enough. High idle speed is called a fast idle. Avoid driving when the fast idle and wait until the engine really hot. This is because when this gear will become coarser and ATF has not reached operating temperature and can cause a variety of internal damage in the long term.
10. Make sure your car engine is at a perfect tuning. This is because some of the symptoms of improper engine tuning as 'jerking' is the same as initial symptoms of damage to the automatic transmission system. If cared for properly tuned engine, gearbox damage early symptoms can be detected and may be prevented from getting worse.

Tire Wear and Vibration

Sometimes the driver will feel uncomfortable when held vibrating steering and unstable because of the weight to the left or right. More troubling is when the whole body of the car also vibrates.

When faced with this situation, the main reason the damage to be considered, including the front tire pressure is too low or is not the same size, front tire wear is not the same, wear or looseness steering system connection, or wiggle the steering gearbox, front wheel alignment adjustment less accurate and the front wheel is not balanced.

If such a problem then the driver and passengers are certainly not comfortable, even more so if you're in a long journey. So, the cause of the damage and vibration must be known. When driving a passenger vehicle or truck, especially a small truck on rough or damaged road, usually will feel shaking even have to hold the steering wheel firmly. However, you can also feel the vibration or shaking of the steering wheel and the vehicle body even flat and good road conditions, at a speed between 40 and 50 miles per hour (mph).

Such a situation is called 'shimmy'. So, if faced with this situation first check tire pressure front steering system conditions, or screw the front wheels. Then check the front tire wear, preferably still has a thick tread with at least 2 mm.

Use the new tires to travel out of town. It is possible that vibrations occur can be removed when the tire is worn out replaced, with new tires or after left-right tire changed its position. However, if the vibration still feels well, the inspection should be done with extra care because of the concern for due to wear or looseness in the steering rod system and front suspension system, or because the front wheel alignment adjustment is inaccurate to cause wheel imbalance. To inspect and repair the problem requires tools and skills. Wheel tires may be placed on a balancing tool. The tool shows the park and large counterweight should be mounted on the wheel rim.

'Shimmy' can occur when the wheels are not locked properly in place, or the axle rod, not in line with the holes in the wheel. So, many factors that can cause 'shimmy': some errors can be easily repaired, but there are problems that require specific expertise to handle it.

Car Brakes

Brake maintenance just like any other car systems, but it depends on your usage level. Vehicles to get to work is tough driving as often driving in dusty and dirty areas such as construction sites or unpaved roads. The situation in the city with halting travel also causes a high level of brake application. It causes rapid wear on the brake pads drag loads slow way and stop when driving in congested conditions.

Car maintenance schedule in the manual recommends checking the brakes and tires every time the lubricant changed. Brake shoe with lining on the brake drum or disc brake pads need to be replaced when there is only 20 percent of the original balance. This is a proactive approach to avoid damage to the brake disc or drum brakes that are far more expensive. For disc brake pads, there is a visible marker level of thirst when you open the lid of the calliper and drum brake systems also have guiding lines.

If you can hear the sound of friction when braking, the cost of repair or replacement you may increase four-fold due to the long wait for change.

Ford Kuga

Class-leading SUV

Growth in the SUV market in recent years, making the automotive industry players so aggressive in promoting their SUVs. Good development indeed benefit consumers. Not just a luxury with a choice, but also the vehicle manufacturer must ensure their products are really competitive. So, only the best is offered to the market. Best in terms of price, value for money, technology, design and so on.

Since its introduction to the European market at the end of last year, Kuga has received encouraging response. Kuga's popularity seems to continue in all markets placed. Kuga SUV is viewed as ideal for urban consumers who want performance and technology. This is because it offers fuel economy that is incredible through the use of a 1.6L EcoBoost engine with Ti-VCT technology.

Capable of generating power up to 180PS with torque up to 240Nm, the engine that has won numerous awards requires only 7.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. Saving was mainly contributed by the turbocharger system and direct injection which allows more precise fuel delivery. The engine is then matched with the automatic gearbox six-speed SelectShift that promises smooth performance. 

Active Grille Shutter also improving fuel economy by maximizing aerodynamic efficiency and engine cooling systems. Kuga features exterior styling elements highlight kinetic 'energy in motion'. It was first shown at the Ford concept cars to display a dynamic sense of movement, energy and excitement. High side line, a neat groove and muscular design provides Kuga a rugged appearance and soft.

To ensure class leading handling, engine is equipped with smart all-wheel drive system (AWD) Ford. The system serves to measure the speed difference between front and rear wheels to determine the appropriate distribution of torque when turning to avoid the problem of torque steer. In addition to reducing body roll, AWD also improves handling dynamics and quality of the vehicle.

Combined Torque Vectoring Control system, Advance Track with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Trailer Sway Control, (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Curve Control expressly make the Kuga a smart SUV safe and high performance.

Kuga earned five stars by Euro NCAP. The score obtained through the use of ultra-high tensile steel in its body structure. Not only that, Kuga is also the only vehicle in its segment, offering seven airbags. In an accident involving the activation of airbags, SOS Post-Accident Warning System will turn on the emergency lights and honk the horn until it is turned off or the battery runs out.

Double lock feature on Kuga will work to close all windows and lock the doors to prevent passengers from far from out. So, it can prevent criminals who managed to get into the vehicle of escape. Combined with Thatcham Category 1 alarm system and disabling the engine (immobilizer), safety features Kuga offers a high level of security.

Among the interesting features on the Kuga is a back door (liftgate) that can be opened and closed by simply moving the foot under the rear bumper. How does it work? Detection tools will detect intelligent access to key combination in a pocket, bag or purse with leg movement and your shins to prevent unintentional opening.

Kuga interior parts have been optimized to offer more space. Seats with a 60:40 configuration provides 1,603 litres of cargo space. In order to give maximum comfort, Kuga uses anti allergenic interior that will not produce airborne fibres that can disrupt your senses.

As Ford's global model, the machine also features Ford SYNC system exclusive. Ford SYNC is a voice activation system, hands-free communication and entertainment, powered by Microsoft.The system allows users to make and receive phone calls, read messages and play a selection of songs with ease. Ford SYNC complement Sony audio system consisting of nine speakers and a high capacity TFT liquid crystal display 4.2-inch size.

Comes in several color choices of green, black, white and silver, Kuga SUV is certainly a worth for money and can be a major contender for SUVs available in the market.

Vehicle Tires

Here are just some useful guidance related to tires:

• Immediately change the tire if it is worn out. This will cause the tires to slip, affected by braking and less sensitive in terms of grip. In wet road conditions, the vehicle may be difficult for the driver's control and crashed.
• Tire choice is important for safety, comfort, control and economy. The sudden braking may cause skidding tires. Check your tire pressure at least twice a month when the tires are cold. Manufacturers also emphasizes maintaining tire pressure.
• Do not drive in damaged tires. Change or fix it as soon as possible.
• Immediately repair any abnormal tire. Make a habit of checking the pressure, alignment and tire rotation. Avoid bad habits while driving such as speeding, sudden braking and take a dangerous turn.
• Make sure that replacement tires are in good condition and can be used as well as having sufficient air pressure.
• Do not combine the good tread tires with less tread tire. At high speed, the situation is causing interference resulting in loss of vehicle stability control and a serious accident.
• Always be sure to screw the tires are properly installed and not too tight. Impossible to open the tire screw with a regular tire opener tool if it is too tightened with opener tool tire air pressure.
• Do not leave tire overloading. Chart weight and wind pressure is usually displayed in the wind fill any stations. Tires can only accommodate a maximum capacity if it has a maximum air pressure.

Fuel Saving

1. Fill the fuel at a time when the early morning or at a time when the cold temperatures. This is because it has more capacity of liquid fuel in the cold weather than during hot weather because a lot of gas vapours.
2. Fill the fuel slowly so that liquid fuel can be fully retracted into the tank and reduce the phenomenon of free volatile gasoline vapours and waste your gas.
3. During a half-full tank, fill the fuel. This is because the more the remaining gasoline in the tank will reduce the capacity of the air space, thus you get more fuel in the tank.
4. Reduce the load weight. Do not carry unnecessary items. Each additional 50 kg weight will increase fuel consumption by 2%.
5. Check your tire pressure. Not enough air pressure will add 5% excess fuel consumption due to friction.
6. Good maintenance. Poor engine tuning increase oil consumption by over 50%. Periodically check the condition of the spark plugs, fan belt and air filter.
7. Speed - Even slower you drive, the more fuel-efficient used, but be able to avoid traffic summons. Driving more than 55 mph will increase fuel consumption significantly.
8. If the car is not moving, turn off the engine if just waiting for someone. Avoid pressing the accelerator pedal if the car is not moving.
9. Use of Gear - Choose the right gear with speed. Use low gear for high speed causing waste gas as engine rpm increases. Use economic mode if your car is equipped with.
10. Brakes - If you already know where to stop, slow down your car gradually. Avoid sudden braking.
11. Planning - Plan your trip to avoid traffic congestion. This saves time, money and avoids stress. You can also arrange your trip in order to maximize the purpose in a way. Examples from work can stop buying things, refuelling and so on. So there's no need to go out again and again.
12. No need to turn on the air conditioner when the weather cools off, or turn off the air conditioner when was about to reach the destination. Fuel consumption increased by 10% when using the air conditioner.
13. Make sure the car is not fully open windows while driving. Otherwise your car will increase friction and slow because you have to press more accelerator pedal to move.
14. Warming up your engine for at least 30 seconds after the engine is turned on. No need to press the accelerator pedal while warming up because it is just a waste of fuel only.
15. While the vehicle to start moving, press the accelerator pedal gently. Rapid acceleration causes the engine rotating speed in low gear thereby increasing fuel consumption.

Oil Filter

Maintaining a vehicle is not just a mere sending vehicle to the workshop only. The owner must also know some tips to avoid other problems arise on the vehicle. This guide gives some exposure to vehicle owners in choosing the type and quality of suitable oil filter when changing engine oil.

Filter function to keep the quality of oil is always clean and filtered through the inside. The tool which is not replaced within a period of time could result in engine damage and cause work system problems for engine components.

Before dealing with much worse problems on vehicles, vehicle owners are advised to replace the oil filter every 10,000 miles. However before replacing it, you must observe the following:

1. Use the original oil filter. Do not use non-genuine oil filter because it is feared that the interior contains a substance that can damage the filter components. In addition, non-genuine filters or cheap brands use low-quality paper that is not durable to filter out dirt.
2. Before installing the oil filter, make sure all interior clean from dirt, especially the surface of the filter. Note at the top of the oil filter there is a protector. Make sure it is open when the filter is to be installed. Then after the engine is turned on, note whether the engine oil leaks around the oil filter or not.
3. When replacing the oil filter it is usually offset by higher than normal oil. Observe your car. If every 1,000 miles, the car you need to add engine oil, it may indicate that something is not normal in the engine.
4. For example, piston rings were worn. Use a pressure test to detect the damage. Based on that information, the vehicle owner should take the necessary steps and observe the standard filter types are installed to prevent vehicles fitted with inferior filter.

Car Air Conditioning System

Car air conditioning system works using a compressed gas by a compressor. This gas will flow through the cooling coil inside the car cabin and the blower will blow wind through the cooling coil and produce a cold wind. After that, the gas must be cooled back and going through the radiator condenser which cools the gas. That's basically how car air conditioning works.

There are various problems that typically arise as a result of damage to the air-conditioner equipment;

1. Hot air or air-conditioner does not cool. This happens because some of the damage. Check the gas content of the air-conditioner to see on the window air-conditioner gas filter (silver tube with the glass on top). If you see any bubbles, meaning there is still gas. So the damage is not due to leakage. Install air-conditioning. Note the fan in front of the radiator condenser. If the fan does not move. Meaning the fan is faulty and should be changed.
2. If the fan spins, but his turn is less speed, the fan should also be changed. If the fan is moving fast and the air-conditioner is not cool, let the air-conditioner is on and noticed one of the air-conditioner gas pipe. If the water spots start to appear, then the gas flow from the compressor to the cooling coil functions. But if the air-conditioner is not cold, most likely, the valve that controls the entry of gas into the cooling coil is blocked or damaged. To change this valve, cooling coil should be open and should be removed and the proposed gas for air-conditioner service once.
3. Air-conditioner not cold enough. These things usually happen on these cars are fully imported from states with colder climates or after the air-conditioning in service. No real damage to the air-conditioner because the temperature is controlled by a switch that activates the air-conditioner automatically. Ask the mechanic to adjust the switch so that the air-conditioner longer activated.
4. In the long journey, after a while, the air-conditioner does not cool. This happens because the switch that controls the air-conditioner did not work properly, or even the valve that controls the gas into the cooling coil damaged, causing the entry of gas into the cooling coil excessively. This will make the cooling coil frozen, or iced happen that prevents the flow of gas out and, consequently, only a portion of the cooling coil cold, while other parts are hot. If this happens, stop your car for a while (until there is no ice on the gas pipe) and adjust the thermostat to a temperature less cold. If it happens again, valves or switches the air-conditioner should be changed.
5. Drip water. This also happens because as the above.
6. White smoke out. White smoke is actually dirt and water vapour occurs. because the gas is too cold. The reason is as '4' above as well.
7. Air from the air-conditioner stink. This happens because there are external wind into the wind channel system air-conditioner car. Perhaps, also, the air-conditioner was not in service too long to cause all the dust and wet mouldy and smelly.
8. Funnel the wind out air-conditioner oily. If this happens, the cooling coil means you have a leak and will eventually run out of gas and air-conditioner water will be hot.

It is proposed that the air-conditioner serviced every year. To travel far through the highway, do not adjust the thermostat on the coldest temperatures as this may damage the cooling coil valve. And for car users, do not 'play' with your air-conditioner thermostat because it is very sensitive. The cost to repair it is also quite expensive.

Car Brake System Care

• Once a month, check the oil level of your car brakes (front oil bottle vacuum pump). Make sure the oil is at a level between the minimum and maximum. NEVER DRIVING IF BRAKE OIL LEVELS ARE BELOW MINIMUM LEVELS.
• Every 6 months when you want to do a car tire rotation, check the brake pads. Make sure the grip layer is still thick. If you find a grip is worn out or not similar between left and right, ask a mechanic check the fuel lines brake system or brake system pressure due to possible pressure on both brakes are not the same and this is very dangerous to drive especially during high-speed braking. The same thing should be done to a drum brake system.
• If there are traces of brake oil (looks paint or any material derived from petroleum melt) in any part, ask a mechanic inspect it. Do not take things for granted because of leakage may be small but it will be great during braking due to the pressure exerted on it.
• When adding brake oil, make sure the correct brake oil specifications. Dot 3 for normal use (usually cars with disc in front and drums at the rear) and DOT 4 for heavy use (for cars with 4-wheel drive system and a high-powered car). If in doubt ask your mechanic. Wrong brake oil change can cause the entire brake system we will suffer damage, especially in the seal made ​​of rubber.
• If there are scratches on the disc or on the drums, ask a mechanic to evaluate whether or not wearable any more. If you want to replace the brake pads, preferably grind back disc or drum brake change for the better. These scratches can be a barrier liner grip the disc or drum brakes. As a result, the brakes will be less effective.
• Damage often occurs is jammed brake. This occurs because the brake pads do not return floating when we release the brakes and continue to grip the disc. Damage is in the calliper, which controls the brake pads.
• For automatic transmission cars, front brake pads will wear faster than the rear (usually two times quickly), be sure to check the brake pads more often on the front of your car.
• When driving, avoid foot of always being on the brake paddle. This will minimize the use of the brake pads.
• When going down a steep hill, do not use the brakes, instead use engine braking (low gear) to control the speed of your car.

Brake System Problem Diagnosis

The braking system is a very important system in a vehicle. Damage to your system can cause an accident. However, there are many components in the system, and any damage to these components cause different problems for each other. Here are tips on how to make the initial diagnosis of your vehicle's brake problems on existing symptoms.

Brakes work, but the pedal needs to be pressed far;

Probability:

• Brake fluid level is low
• Water in the brake pipe
• Brake pads are nearly worn out

Brake paddle too hard.

Modern car brake paddle s assisted by brake booster, where it takes the vacuum pressure from the engine. So if you feel your brake paddle becomes hard;

Probability:

• Servo vacuum problem
• Faulty brakes
• Brake line blockage

No pressure on the brakes, the pedal close to the floor when pressed and the brake does not work;

Probability:

• The main pump is damaged / leaking.
• Leak in the brake line
• Leak in rear drum brake pump
• Air bubbles in the brake pipe

Brake feel 'spongy', to be pumped several times then works;

Probability:

• Air bubbles in the brake pipe

Car 'pulled' to a direction (left or right) when braking;

Probability:

• Brake calliper on one of the parts have been damaged or stuck

Brake pedal vibrates when braking;

Probability:

• Brake disc surface is not flat. Should be flattened surface (if still thick) or replaced directly.

Noisy brakes;

Probability:

• Brake pad is worn out or is too old and is already a hard material 
• Using artificial brake pads

Be Careful for The Push-Start

Sure you ever faced a situation where the batteries run out of power when you want to turn on the car right? Currently your options are either 'jump start' your car battery from another car or waiting for help from the mechanic brings a new battery for you. But if you use a car with a manual transmission, there is another option that you can turn on the car engine practised by push the car. This process you can do one, but it is advisable to do either two or more especially a big and heavy car.

Steps:

1. First make sure the problem really stems from a weak battery or starter motor failure.
2. Ensure safe surroundings. Do not do it in high traffic areas.
3. Make sure someone is in the driver's seat, to turn on the car and steering control while the other pushed the car from behind.
4. Turn off all accessories such as the radio, headlights, wipers and others.
5. Press the clutch pedal with your left foot. Do not release the clutch until the car is turned on.
6. Enter the position of the gear to second gear or third gear.
7. Release the parking brake, and do not press the brake foot.
8. Right foot ready to push the gas pedal.
9. Start pushing the car.
10. When you have enough speed, release the clutch pedal.
11. Engine will operate after the clutch pedal is released. Press the clutch and brake pedal to stop the car.
12. After ensuring that it is safe, drive your car to the nearest workshop to change the battery.

Used Cars

Buying a used car is an alternative choice for consumers compared to buying a new car because it is much cheaper. Used car prices are 20 to 30 percent lower when compared to the prices of new cars. Typically, cars are still in good condition and has low mileage. This means you can have a comfortable car at a reasonable price.

However, buying a used car is not an option for all users. Usually the last car owning experience affect a person either to choose a new or used car. To reduce risk, some measures can be taken if it is to buy a used car.

Tips on Buying a Used Car:

• Check the foot pedal and the brake. If the foot pedal has worn out, it shows the car has reached a high level of travel. If the brake pedal has worn out, it indicates that the car is being driven in urban areas.
• See if there are traces of paint that are new or different paint colour on the body panel. If there is, chances are it's broken body parts, which have been repaired and new paint closed.
• Check the odometer reading. Unorganized numbers show the odometer has been turned back. Remember, high mileage is not a bad thing if the car is still in good condition.
• View twisted wiring in the car hood. Also check your hoses to make sure whether it was cracked or weathered. This could indicate the car is old and no longer in good condition.
• See if there are oil leaks on the ground and also in the engine. This is an indication of motor problems.
• Check if the exhaust brittle or corroded. It will turn out to be black where the leak occurred.
• View baldness and cracks on the face and edges of the tires. A tire worn on one side only shows the unbalanced alignment.
• Doors should be in good condition when you open and close it. See the use of rubber around the doors. Check windows and locks. If all this does not work well, the previous owner of the car does not make great care.
• Get the vehicle identification number and do some research with the Road Transport Department where you can check prices, title search and also the history of the vehicle.
• Find a trusted mechanic or who are knowledgeable in the field of mechanical along with you when purchasing the car.

Car Engine Condition Diagnosis

Did you know, by looking at the exhaust smoke, you are able to diagnose the condition of an engine? Ability to diagnose not only allows you to determine the level of 'health' engine, but also can be used when buying a used car. Colour of the exhaust smoke will describe how the burning in your engine. Thus, the internal components of your engine's condition can be predicted based on the combustion conditions.

White smoke / water vapour / water from the exhaust pipe when the morning or cold. If this is the result of burning your engine, congratulations. You have a very healthy engine. Valves and piston rings are still in a state seal, fuel injection system (EFI) works perfectly and carburettor (if using a carburettor) are in the most perfect tuning. Petrol has an element Carbon (C) and hydrogen (H), while the air had the element oxygen (O). So if all the internal components of the engine seals, carburettor or EFI system gets tuned mixture of air and fuel ratio of 14.7:1, it will produce perfect combustion. So after gasoline and burns oxygen and react properly, the combustion products will be water (H20) after was mixed with the surrounding cold air has more oxygen.

Black smoke

Black smoke is caused by tuning the ratio of air and fuel mixture is too rich, 'which is the ratio of petrol more than usual. Usually black smoke will come once the problem of increased fuel consumption. Gasoline smell in the exhaust is also quite strong. If you use an electronic fuel injection system, it must be checked at an authorized service centre using a computer scanner to detect problems or components that are not functioning properly. Unlike a carburettor, electronic fuel injection system memory has been set and tuning will not be wrong if all components are functioning properly. And if you use a carburettor, it requires tuning to correct the ratio of air and fuel mixture according to proper specifications. Bring your car to an experienced mechanic, because the carburettor is a very sensitive component. If the wrong tune, your car may be more intense use petrol or may lose power!

Bluish grey smoke

When the exhaust emits smoke blue or grey, this means that there is leakage of engine oil into the combustion chamber causing the engine oil burning gasoline and air mix together. This problem will come together with the common problem of decreasing engine oil and needs to be added. This leakage caused either from the cylinder head valve seal was leaking or worse may be due to a leak on the piston rings. What is certain, top overhaul needs to be done on your engine to replace a leaky valve seal. And may also need a major overhaul if the process found the piston rings are not sealing any more.

White smoke continued

If white smoke out of the exhaust blunt, this means the water from the water jacket around the engine block is entering the combustion chamber. This problem will be coming along with engine temperature problem spike than normal temperatures. Ingress of water may be due to the cylinder head gasket is leaking or is damaged, causing water released into the combustion chamber. Worst case scenario, water will be mixed with engine oil and you can detect it after opening the engine oil cap. Your engine oil will change colour to colour-like milk tea. The solution is of course to do top overhaul on the engine.

ABS Brake System Evolution

During the 90s, Anti-lock Brake System or ABS may be a premium, and only matched in luxury cars only. But now, the ABS is standard system should have in the European market cars. These systems prevent the tire locked during sudden braking or on slippery surfaces. Actually when tires locked during braking, distance to stop the car will be much more because the tires lost traction at the time.

Drivers will also lose steering control because when the tires locked, car will continue recklessly forward despite steering is turned to the left or to the right, and will cause the driver can not avoid obstacles in front. Brakes with ABS systems are still using conventional brake hydraulic system as usual. But it has a modulator that works when the tires start to lock. This modulator will release brake pressure to prevent it locks and then give back pressure to the brake calliper. The process takes place very quickly, less than a second for each session to ensure the shortest stopping distances can be achieved.

How modulator controls the brake hydraulic system?

Modulator ABS system is not working alone. It was also aided by the speed sensors (wheel speed sensors) are placed on each tire and also a computer box to process data received from the speed sensor. Computer box will detect if there is a tire that will be locked when the driver brakes through the readings taken from the speed sensor. Then it will direct modulator to release the pressure on the brake system and put pressure back after several milliseconds. If the tires can still locked, the computer box will direct modulator to do that again until the driver's foot from the brake pedal release. And the whole process can occur in less than one second.

Driving Tips When Rain

Driving in heavy rain gives an advantage, and the effects of the cooling system, but at the same time a little obscure the driver's view, while the surface is wet and slippery roads can result in a high percentage of accidents.

Measures to be taken by the driver when a flooded road trekking;

1. Give way to heavy vehicles, and estimated water height be forced to see high limits tire.
2. If the water level below one foot, driving can be done but drivers should drive slowly. This is to avoid water splash especially the engine ignition system.
3. After trekking flooded roads, avoid further speeding, because the brake system is not fully functional due to the wet braking surface. To overcome this problem there are a few guidelines that can be applied as follows:

• Use the gears 1st and 2nd for vehicles using manual gear system, while 1st gear automatic gear system.
• Press the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal simultaneously to produce heat at the brake surface.
• For 4-wheel drive, automatic gear like manual gearbox. Limit speeds ranging from 5 to 15 km/h and space out your vehicle with the vehicle in front. This process dries the brake surface.
• Test action repeatedly over a distance of 20 to 30 meters.
• Test the brake system at a speed of 20 km / h
• If the brake fails, repeat the above process. After that, test the braking system further until satisfactory performance before speeding.

Car Care

A feeling of anxiety will exist if the business out of the country and had to leave the car for weeks or months without being started. Some thought the car will be damaged or can cause decreased performance without regular care.

This is due to some vehicle owners not only treat just transportation, but as a very loved.collection.In fact, a few of them rarely use it, so it is placed in the garage for a long time. However, if the vehicle is left on for a long time it can affect the performance of the vehicle or difficult to be started.

There are several techniques to keep the car in a long period of time either in the six months until a year without reducing performance. 

• If confronted with this situation, what is most important is to put the vehicle in a dry, shady garage.
• What is important is disconnect the vehicle battery cable to turn off the electrical current. If left too long it can cause the battery becomes weak.
• Fill the fuel tank full when storing the vehicle for more than one year, it aims to solve the problem of water vapour,  water damage and rust formation.
• In addition, before storing the vehicle be sure to replace the engine oil and filter as well.
• Put in a new oil well to the cylinder to provide a protective layer.
• Be sure to dry up all the air conditioning system to prevent corrosion occurring in part to prevent problems due to liquid cooling or contact with the aluminium.
• Do not dry the radiator coolant fluid. If age is more than one and a half years, replace them with new ones.
• Brake oil also must be completed in full and if it is more than two years, it can damage metal components.
• To avoid damage to the vehicle shock absorbers, lift all four wheels for relaxing tires, bearings and other components of shock absorbers.
• Car covered in a fabric type cover, do not forget to open the window slightly to allow air in and out.

Based on the information it helps to overcome the problem of the vehicle when left for a long period of time.

Check Your Car

For a start the long journey, make sure to condition your car is in perfect condition. Although just last vehicle serviced in a workshop nearby, you should take the initiative to examine it again to prevent something undesirable.

Here are some guidelines that may be useful to you:

Tire inspection

Leverage wheels use the jack, and turn the tires to ensure that tread is evenly worn, no cracks or bubbles, while the wheels do not wobble.

Alignment inspection

Alignment can be determined either in good condition with turning the car (while driving). You will feel like the car wants to flip over or thrown if the alignment is not perfect.

Inspection of tire balance

Balancing the tires should be checked for driving stability. An easy way to know the balance is not perfect, when the car feel heavy to the left or right, while the steering wheel vibrates.

Brake inspection

Check the brake pads (brake pads) and change it if it is thin or worn and uneven surface. Also check the brake fluid and outlets throughout the brake fluid reservoir to the wheel brakes. The brakes on the wheel leaks difficult to detect if it is a small leak. However, it can be detected by spraying the inside of the wheel with heavy water. Sprayed water will lather if there is a leak. Valve pump the brakes on the wheels need to be replaced just as quickly.

Inspection of brake lights

Most car owners do not take care seriously and often leave the brake lights if only one light working or just additional brake light goes on. Do not let it continue because it can cause serious accidents. Change brake light bulb that costs just a few dollars or fix the wiring if it is the cause of the brake lights do not light up.

Inspection of lubricants

Check the lubricating oil should be done after a long journey. This is to ensure it is adequate and not below the F (full). Less lubricant can cause friction in all metal engine parts wear out quickly, especially valve rings. If lubricating oil is too dirty, it causes intense friction. This is because the oil molecules are on the dirty lubricant is not much.

Battery inspection

Battery liquid is reduced after travelling hundreds of kilometres, especially on vehicles with air conditioning. Check and make sure it is sufficiently liquid. Use only branded battery fluid, and produced by a registered company. The poor quality of the battery fluid not only shorten battery life, but can cause other problems such as damage to the engine.

Radiator inspection
Radiator water inspection should focus not only on tank water coolant, but should also be seen in it. Open the radiator cap and may look rusty water or dirt attached to the cap. Rusty radiator water, or dirty should change them. Way to change it is to open the cover located on the bottom of the radiator and let the water run dry. Then touched the hose pipe and add water to the radiator so that the excess dirt out. Close the lid and fill the radiator with water. Insert a small can of coolant / radiator cleaner into the coolant water tank.