The last few years have presented many challenges that have impacted supply and demand of vehicles. Pre-2020, consumers had lots of negotiating power when purchasing a new vehicle. Dealership lots were full of cars and salespeople were eager to make a deal. You could purchase almost any vehicle for less
An EV battery is also called a traction battery or traction battery pack. Unlike a standard 12 volt starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI) battery, an EV high voltage traction battery is designed to convert the chemical energy stored in the battery to electricity to power the electric motors that propel
How often do you think about your car tires? Weekly? Monthly? Yearly? When you have a blowout? This week, May 29th-June 4th, was designated by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) as National Tire Safety Week. This is a great time to think about tires since Memorial Day marks the beginning
Spring is here…well in most places in the United States. While the lakes are still unthawing in Northern Minnesota and the students are returning from sunny Florida’s spring break climate, getting your vehicle ready for the summer travel season may be on your to-do list. Understanding the Statistics Did you
This post is sponsored by DENSO. Whether you have a Honda Civic or Chevrolet Corvette or anything in between, you will need to change your vehicle’s spark plugs eventually. Check your owner’s manual to see when the manufacturer recommends replacing. I remember back in the 1980s and 1990s changing plugs
The Polar Vortex is moving into the Northeast. Is your car ready for these cold temperatures? Maintenance Schedule First and foremost follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Make sure you use the correct viscosity of oil. Many vehicles today use SAE 0W20 or SAE 5W20, but always check your owner’s manual.
I live near Springfield, Missouri. Today I saw gas prices as low as $1.16 a gallon. That is cheap gas. Possibly too cheap for growth in the alternative fueled industry. Tesla Motors stock has been getting hammered this year…recently hitting a low of $141.05. The 52 week high was
As a car guy, there are many automotive apps that can make your life easier. As the author of Auto Upkeep I periodically give a presentation titled “Automotive Smartphone Apps and Mobile Sites” to automotive teachers and students. It always excites me when respectable parts suppliers develop apps to help
The Tesla Model S will be featured in a series of Electric Car Guest Drives hosted by the EV Quorum car club. The San Diego event will be held on Saturday, November 9 from 11am-5pm in Balboa Park. In a single afternoon, participants can drive six different electric cars including
When I was an automotive instructor I liked taking the time to discuss with my students how automotive manufacturing has evolved over the last 100+ years. Let’s look at the assembly line in 1913 and now in 2013. Ford Motor Company’s Moving Assembly Line Henry Ford is often credited with
Growing up in Northern Minnesota our garage at home consisted of a floor jack and an air compressor. Today many car enthusiasts are building the “Ultimate Garage”. But what should be included? Here’s my list! 1. Automotive Lift This may sound crazy to the average person, but to the automotive
How many automotive manufacturers can stand the test of time? I love attending old car shows and swap meets, perusing old cars and car parts of yesteryear. Being at old car shows make one understand that auto manufacturing is a rough business. Think of the following antique car clubs: Plymouth,
I remember counting down the years, months, and days until I was 16. This obsession was for one reason – so I could have the freedom of driving my own car. My Uncle Ed would take my siblings and me out and let us practice. He would find a desolate
Automobiles are expensive to own and operate. But if you are thinking of skipping the step of insuring your vehicle so you can put gas in it, think again. You risk getting fined, your license suspended, vehicle impounded, or even jail time if you don’t comply with your state’s law.
School’s out! Guess what this means? Road trips! But before you jump in the car and hit the road, check your tires thoroughly. An improperly inflated tire can lead to a blowout. Insufficient tread on your tire can make you hydroplane. And if your tire is reaching its useful age
Michael and Linda Gray, authors of Auto Upkeep, were interviewed for the Advance Auto Parts DIY Garage. You can read the full article HERE.
Snow and ice are just around the corner. Whether you like it or not, winter weather will be here before you know it. How can you get better traction in the snow and ice? The folks at McGee Company has a solution for you. Instead of putting heavy and cumbersome
This year’s NACAT (North American Council of Automotive Teachers) Conference is being held in Tyler, Texas and is hosted by Tyler Junior College. Auto Upkeep 3rd Edition (c) 2013 Debut! Auto Upkeep 3rd Edition will debut at the NACAT conference tomorrow, Wednesday July 18th – 2012! We are pleased to
As Lightning McQueen would say, “Speed. I am speed.” Ok, putting Disney-Pixar film Cars quotes aside…if you want raw power to cruise on the real Route 66 take a look at the 2012 Camaro ZL1. The 2012 Camaro was inspired by the 1969 Camaro ZL1. In 1969, only 69 production
As Linda and I are in the midst of updating our text Auto Upkeep, I like to go to new car dealerships and learn about the latest technology. Aiden (my 23 month old son) and I went on an adventure to a local Chevrolet dealer – Reliable Chevrolet – while
Ford and Toyota announced today that they would begin to collaborate on an advanced hybrid system. Why? According to the automakers, to make it more affordable and to bring it to market sooner. This joint project will focus on rear wheel drive SUVs (sport utility vehicles) and light trucks. According
You can now manage you Nissan Leaf with your smartphone. You can start battery charging, check how long a charge will take, check the current battery charge level, turn on the heat or A/C on or off, and estimate how many miles your battery is charged for…all from the comfort
The Obama administration recently announced new fuel efficiency standards that will take effect from 2017 to 2025. In essence, each manufacturers’ fleet average must achieve 54.5 miles per gallon (MPG). According to the administration, this will save each family $8200 over the life of the vehicle as compared to a
Originally from Northern Minnesota (the Ice Box of the Nation, International Falls), I know how cold weather can cause havoc on automobiles. When the thermometer drops, electric cars do not perform as they do in “ideal” conditions. This is what Consumer Reports discovered on the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf.
Did you see the 2006 documentary “Who Killed the Electric Car”? Director Chris Paine has created a sequel…”Revenge of the Electric Car”. Unlike “Who Killed the Electric Car” (a favorite film of mine) that focused on electric vehicle (EV) activists fighting big corporations, “Revenge of the Electric Car”, according to
Nissan will open up reservations for the Leaf, their flagship pure electric vehicle (Read the News Release) tomorrow May 15th. The Leaf will be delivered to select markets in December with an increasing distribution in the Spring of 2011 and a full rollout in 2012. The specifications for the Leaf
Want to win $10 million? That’s exactly what those competing in the Progressive Insurance are aiming to do. The competition is designed to help inspire innovative thinkers to create 100 MPG (miles per gallon) super-efficient vehicles. Think it is just automakers participating…think again. The competition includes not only automakers but
Save money by spending money…can this be true? Yes, if you maintain your vehicle. According to the Car Care Council executive director Rich White, “Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line, either in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value.” (See press
As the sudden unintended acceleration still haunts Toyota, they will begin installing brake override systems in many of their current and previous year models. Toyota said that “The brake override system is not an integral part of the recall remedy, but is instead being added as an extra measure of
The 2011 Ford Mustang EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Fuel Economy MPG (Miles Per Gallon) are in: Ford Mustang 3.7 liter V-6 … 300+ HP (Horsepower) and 31 mpg on the highway with an automatic transmission Ford Mustang GT 5.0 liter V-8 … 412 HP and 26 mpg on the highway
With its proclaimed “Americas Best Warranty“, “Hyundai Assurance“, high quality cars, and a major competitor (Toyota) in public perception nightmare ; Hyundai overtakes Toyota and Honda as the #1 automaker in owner loyalty according to KBB.com. Hyundai is a Korean company, but with facilities in Alabama (manufacturing), California (proving grounds),
Law enforcement agencies have plenty to choose from when looking for a new vehicle. 2012 Ford Police Interceptor – The new Ford Taurus-based model will replace the popular Ford Crown Victoria. See the newly released specifications for the Ford Police Interceptor HERE. 2010 Dodge Charger Police – The Charger is
In a presentation in Paris on March 1st, Richard Newell the Administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration, indicated that by 2035 new light duty vehicle efficiency is projected to reach 40 mpg (miles per gallon). In addition, flex fueled vehicles, mild hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full hybrids will account
GMC released the specifications today of the new 2011 Sierra Denali HD. What I like about this press release is that it highlights “Competitive Facts” focusing right in on how Sierra matches up with the Dodge Ram and Ford F-Series and Super Duty. In this Press Release, General Motors highlights
The NBC Today Show reported on a story regarding a runaway Toyota Prius in California. This report, along with numerous others, really questions whether Toyota has figured out its “Sudden Unintended Acceleration” issues. After recalling 8 million+ vehicles for floor mat entrapment and sticky accelerator pedals (by fixing it with
Toyota is in the hot seat today in Washington, D.C. Who is at the hearing? David Strickland, Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ray LaHood, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Akio Toyoda, President and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, several members of congress, consumer
Buying a new car can be stressful. Dealer invoice, dealer cost, MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price), holdbacks, destination charges, factory options, dealer incentives, and factory incentives should all be considered during negotiation. (Learn more about buying a car at the Auto Upkeep Learning Center and read this post on Defogging
General Motors is looking ahead…to its anticipated launch of the Chevrolet Volt later this year. To appease the tech junkie, OnStar has created an app for the Volt so the owner can access real time data. Most importantly, owners will be able to manage their car charging controls remotely. Want
Yesterday Toyota announced another recall (read the press release) of approximately 133,000 Prius (2010) and 14,500 Lexus HS 250h (2010) vehicles to update the ABS software. In the same recall notice Toyota said that they will also inspect another model, the 2010 Camry, for a power steering hose that may
The major news story recently is focused on how Toyota will address the nightmare of millions of their vehicles being recalled for accelerator issues. Concerned Toyota owners want to know what needs to be done to put their worries at ease. Apparently, a small shim will fix most vehicles (Toyota
As the only U.S. major automaker not to take bailout money last year, Ford is emerging once again as the auto company others are striving to become. To highlight the Ford story over the last few years, a new 50 minute video was published titled “The New American Road”. This
In light of recent recalls from Toyota (massive accelerator recall impacting millions of vehicles) to Honda (driver’s side master power window switch) to baby cribs (Dorel cribs) to today’s Italian Sausage recall, you might wonder what other things you own or eat may have a recall. The website every consumer
Like many of you I saw on the TV or read news articles (such as from Bloomberg) about the incentives that Ford and General Motors are offering to capitalize on the massive Toyota accelerator recall. But as a writer, I always like to refer back to an original press release
I have been following the sticking accelerator fiasco at Toyota for months (Read two previous blogs: Floor mat Safety – Check your car’s floor mats! and It’s Not Just the Floor Mats: Toyota Recalls 2.3 million Vehicles for Sticking Accelerator Pedal). Yesterday Toyota released a bombshell – they are suspending
General Motors (GM) announced today that it will become the first major U.S. automaker to design and manufacture electric motors. In a press release, a GM vice chairman said that “In the future, electric motors might become as important to GM as engines are now”. I am surprised the VP
It was announced yesterday that the United States Department of Energy (DOE) approved a $465 million loan to Tesla Motors – the electric California based automaker currently producing the Tesla Roadster. This loan is to help bring to market (in larger volumes) the Model S electric sedan. The Model S
Last year Toyota recalled 4.2 million Toyota and Lexus vehicles regarding floor mats that could cause the gas (accelerator) pedal to stick. (I wrote a blog about it titled Floor mat safety – Check your car’s floor mats!) Today’s recall, Toyota says (see the official press release), is separate from
Ford Motor Company along with its brands Lincoln and Mercury move into top spots as the most improved brands of 2009 according to a BrandIndex poll. Ford ranked #1; Facebook ranked #2; Lincoln ranked #3; and Mercury ranked #4. (See article from BrandWeek.) Why has the Ford increased so dramatically?
Much of the country, from the upper Midwest to Florida, is in an Arctic cold blast. But what does this mean for you when you travel? Becoming stranded in sub-zero temperatures is not only inconvenient, it can be deadly. So what advice is good advice? Who are the experts? One
Today Ford Motor Company announced (see press release) that the New MyFord Touch system, which uses two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens alongside the analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD in the middle of the dashboard, now has improved voice recognition, more connectivity ports including SD Card slot, and WiFi
The Ford F-Series Pickup was the number one selling vehicle in the United States in 2009. However, if you combine Chevrolet Silverado sales with GMC Sierra sales, General Motors wins the race with 428,386 total pickups. Not surprisingly the Toyota Camry is the number one selling car with the Corolla
Twitter.com, currently the 14th most visited site in the world according to Alexa.com, continues to be the go-to place for social marketing. CarMax, one of the nation’s leading and most progressive retailers for used cars, is now using Twitter to give away $25,000 towards any used car in their inventory.
Most truck buyers want great towing capacity in their truck. To compare towing pound for pound Dodge Ram Engineers put the Dodge Ram 1500 Laramie against Ford F-150 Lariat by creating a gross combined weight trailer towing test of 15,500 lbs – on actual roads – at wide open throttle.
Within a week after launching its new website for the Fiesta, Ford has received over 1000 reservations. (See official press release.) In a year where automotive manufacturers are cutting advertising costs (automakers spent 30% less this year as compared to last year to date – see source) Ford is finding
With a massive winter storm crossing the United States, it is time to revisit safe winter driving techniques. The folks at AAA (the largest automotive association with over 50 million members) published a nice brochure to highlight what you need to know and be able to do when driving on
Earlier this year, Ford Motor Company announced a paradigm shift for transmissions – the double clutch automated manual transmission. Ford calls it the PowerShift. This new transmission will be available on the 2011 Ford Fiesta. Below is Ford’s explanation of the new transmission: GETRAG-Ford PowerShift technology is intelligent and revolutionary
General Motors (GM) finally released wind tunnel test results for its highly anticipated Chevy Volt. A wind tunnel is used to test the coefficient of drag. Learn how aerodynamics works from HowStuffWorks.com. The GM wind tunnel yielded the following results: Honda Insight = 0.32 Toyota Prius = 0.30 Chevy Volt
The world leader in hybrid technology, Toyota, announced today that it will debut its highly anticipated 2010 Prius Plug-in Hybrid in North America at the Los Angeles Auto Show. (Read the Press Release.) What enables the Plug-In Prius to outperform in all-electric mode as compared to the conventional Prius? A
Each year the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety releases a list of safe vehicles that meet its standards of “crashworthiness”. Their tests help determine how well a vehicle protects the driver and passengers in an accident. The winning 27 vehicles this year were classified into the following groups: Large Cars,
This week, Daimler and the City of Austin (Texas) entered into a partnership to assist with urban mobility. The car2go program (a subsidiary of Daimler) uses 200 smart fortwo vehicles in a car sharing initiative. According to Mayor Lee Leffingwell, “This pilot-program partnership between car2go and the City of Austin
Nissan is debuting its all electric car, the LEAF, in North America today in Los Angeles. (See the tour schedule.) The LEAF, which will be available in some states in 2010, will be mass produced in 2012. With a driving range of 100 miles, the all-electric LEAF will meet the
Ford Motor Company announced on Wednesday November 11th that it will be the first automotive manufacturer to use wheat straw-reinforced plastic, a more environmentally friendly product than plastic used previously, in a vehicle. This natural fiber based plastic will be used in the production of interior storage bins on the
Will California become the new Michigan in automotive manufacturing? If the EV (electric vehicle) market takes off jobs will be bountiful in small start-ups. Just take a look at Tesla Motors…a company only a handful of years old…is looking for design engineers, CNC machinists, firmware engineers, manufacturing engineers, project engineers,
According to the Wall Street Journal, Ford Motor Company announced today that they will be combining air bags with traditional seat belts to add a new level of safety for rear occupants of vehicles – especially children. Check out this video from NBC’s Today Show. Here is the video released
It has been a boxing match from Edmunds.com and the White House this week. It all started when Edmunds.com published the press release titled “Cash for Clunkers Results Finally In: Taxpayers Paid $24,000 per Vehicle Sold, Reports Edmunds.com“. The White House responded a day later on their blog with the
Only in America…can a two year old company, a company with its roots in California and not in Michigan, take over a plant that once the largest automaker in the world (GM) had to shut down. Here is the press release from Fisker: Fisker Automotive has selected the Wilmington Assembly
Consumer Reports, the nation’s leading independent consumer advocacy group, recently published on their website “Reality Check on Car Care Myths“. This article is a must read for car owners. It covers everything from oil change intervals to car washing to tire inflation. The greatest debate in the car care industry
Need a little help judging your speed and distance during rush hour? Navigating between fast and slow moving vehicles on the freeway can be challenging. Ford’s Five O’Clock Challenge is a fun game to help you navigate freeway driving. Give it a try and test your driving instincts! Want to
October 18th – 24th is National Teen Driver Safety Week. Why should a week be set aside to focus on teen driving? Below are some statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support this effort: In 2007… * Motor vehicle crashes were the leading cause of death
GM’s OnStar recently paid off for a California resident. Some 2009 and newer model year GM vehicles have the option of OnStar’s advanced service – Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. According to OnStar, Stolen Vehicle Slowdown “gives our subscribers added security by allowing OnStar Advisors, who work with law enforcement, to send
If your Ford is equipped with a Texas Instruments speed control deactivation switch, your vehicle could be at risk. Ford Motor Company is recalling some 4.5 million vehicles (see notice). The majority of vehicles within the recall are ten years old or older…my question is…how many of these vehicles are
Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the federal government’s General Services Administration (GSA) invested 300 million into its fleet in an effort to “green” it up. (See press release.) This purchase included 35 hybrid-electric buses. I would really like to see the federal government (via grants from the GSA
Fuel from Algae may be the next craze in the alternative fuel marketplace. (Learn about Algae.) The significant, quick growth of algae is the key. Some algal strains can double their mass several times in one day. This has received attention from investors. According to this Popular Mechanics article, investors
Did you know that the tires you select can impact your fuel economy? The rolling resistance of a tire is key to achieving higher efficiency. All major tire brands have released some form of fuel saving tires. Goodyear has the Fuel Max, which they claim will save 2600 miles worth
Today’s vehicles have numerous safety devices: anti-lock brake systems (ABS), seat belts, air bags, electronic stability control, traction control, adaptive cruise control, and collision warning devices. But one of the least technological devices that you should also pay attention to is your driver’s side floor mat. Did you know that
Two times during the year are most important for your vehicle: Spring and Fall. Last Spring I blogged about April as being Spring Car Care Month. Now you need to get ready for winter. While many of the tech tips I presenting in April are still very valid for Fall
In 1996, GM discontinued its full-size, body-on-frame car architecture – ending the Caprice Police Car production. But 15 years later, GM plans to emerge as a leading provider of vehicles to law enforcement centers. The all new 2011 Chevy Caprice Police Car has the following special features: • Powerful 6.0L
If you want a tough truck, you buy a Ford. If you want a really tough truck, you buy a Ford Super Duty. The highly anticipated 2011 Ford Super Duty was revealed this week at the Texas State Fair. To help illustrate all the features, technological advancements, and Ford “toughness”
October 1st will mark the 101st anniversary of the Model T Ford. It is still amazing how the Model T changed the world – from carriages to cars. But even more amazing is how far production lines have changed. Take a look at this video from The Henry Ford Museum…illustrating
Fisker Automotive, a company started just two years ago in 2007, has received a low cost loan to create “affordable, fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid electric cars”. Where will most of the 500 million+ dollars go? Most of the money is slated for “Project NINA” – Fisker Automotive’s next-generation plug-in hybrids. Fisker,
How do you save 20,000 trees each year? Go digital with owner’s manuals. Chrysler will provide DVD user guides with all of its 2010 line. The DVD will not only be an owner’s manual, but also a user’s guide for vehicle features. Think about it…the DVD will visually show a
How is Ford doing? According to Doug Scott, Ford’s Truck Marketing Manager even though they are being considerably outspent by GM and Chrysler, the new F150 has gained 5-6 points of market share since its debut last fall. Mike Gray, AutoUpkeep.com As the marketing manager, do you find it is
If you couldn’t afford to make the trip to Frankfurt, Germany, it is still easy to see what is happening at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Take a quick tour on YouTube and you can get highlights without leaving the seat of your office computer. Here are a few short
Sometimes relationships just have to end. Navistar International Corporation, who has been providing diesel engines for Ford Motor Company for decades, will no longer provide engines for Ford’s F-Series Super Duty truck. After several years in conflict (read Ford’s press release back in January), the two will maintain their focus
Your car is full of technological advancements. Vehicles are now produced with radar-based collision warning systems to keep you safe. Take a minute to view this video that highlights Ford Motor Company’s advancements. Here is the explanation from Ford on how the radar system works and where it is used.
Jay Leno’s new show, The Jay Leno Show, will feature a segment called the “Green Car Challenge”. It is not surprising that the prime time show, which premieres on Monday September 14th at 9 pm central time, will have a regular segment about cars. Jay Leno is an avid car
The Chevrolet Volt…no. The Toyota Prius PHEV…no. The Honda Civic…no. The Ford Escape…no. According to Fisker Automotive, a green American premium sports car company, they will be the first to have a production PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) – the Karma. Here are some specifications: * Plug-in hybrid technology Q
I am pleased to announce that our Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit was recently reviewed by the website “Curriculum Choice“. It is always exciting to read what homeschool moms, dads, and kids think about our curriculum. Here is a quote from the reviewer: This program is going to prepare my
You don’t negotiate a price for a book. You don’t negotiate a price for a digital camera. You don’t negotiate a price for a big screen TV. Many of us go online and search for the best price or expect the local retailer to “be in the ballpark” with the
Today Ford held a live chat with Sherif Marakby, Ford Global Hybrid Chief Engineer regarding their intelligent vehicle-to-grid communications and control system. In addition to discussing this new system, Marakby answered questions about Ford’s plans for hybrids and plug-in electrics. To read the full chat transcript, go to TheFordStory.com. To
If you need roadside assistance you no longer need to wait on hold. AAA, America’s leader in Emergency Roadside Service with 51 million members, has a new way for you to contact them for roadside service using the AAA Roadside iPhone App. If you need assistance, the application, among many
According to AAA, approximately 32.9 million Americans will hit the road in their automobiles this Labor Day weekend (September 3rd – 7th) – this equates to about 1 in 10 Americans or 10% of the population (the U.S. population is approximately 307 million). If you are getting in your car
How do you determine if your serpentine belt needs replacing. Looking for cracks in neoprene serpentine belts was a tried and true method to determine replacement. Neoprene serpentine belts commonly last 50,000 to 60,000 miles. However today, there is a new belt technology: Ethylene Propylene Diene M-class rubber (EPDM). EPDM
With school starting, the roads will be filled with new drivers. New drivers are empowered. Empowered through freedom and responsibility. But what’s the big deal anyway? The big deal is that “motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens” (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). AAA,
It is back-to-school time for many students. Students are working to get ready for classes. For some high school students, this means the first time they get to drive to school. For some college students, this means the first time they are away from home. For those that aren’t riding
The plug-in vehicle movement is in high gear. This week in Long Beach, CA the Plug-In 2009 Convention is attracting attention. Workshops include: Making Your Community Plug-In Ready – The Automaker Perspective; Community and City Infrastructure Planning; Electrical Codes and Regulations for EV Charging Equipment; Design of Charging Infrastructure for
Today General Motors announced that the Chevrolet Volt is expected to achieve 230 MPG in the city. The Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle is expected to achieve city fuel economy of at least 230 miles per gallon, based on development testing using a draft EPA federal fuel economy methodology for
Starting tomorrow, August 11th, GM and eBay Motors will launch GM.eBay.com to connect California Dealers with potential buyers. In a press release today, GM stated: “In a move to help simplify the car-shopping process, eBay Motors and General Motors Company today announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind promotion that enables
On Thursday President Obama signed into law H. R. 3435 supplementing $2 billion to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the Department of Transportation (DOT) for the Consumer Assistance to Recycle and Save Program. The CARS (Car Allowance Rebate System) program, or Cash for Clunkers as it has
Nissan’s first zero emissions vehicle is called the “Leaf”. It is not a hybrid, it is 100% electric. With a claimed 100 mile range this will surely complete against the upcoming Chevy Volt. There are differences though. The Volt actually has an on-board internal combustion engine to recharge the batteries
I am often asked how Auto Upkeep, a curriculum designed to teach basic car care, maintenance, and repair, can also be used in a NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) certified program that trains automotive technicians. The key is that all students need to start somewhere, often this means learning
I am pleased to announce that the Auto Upkeep textbook and workbook are now available through Mardel, Inc. (Mardel Christian and Education Stores). Mardel, Inc. operates Mardel.com and 32 retail stores in Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. We are lucky to have a store close to us in
The last two days I attended the North American Council for Automotive Teachers (NACAT) conference held this year in the Queen City – Charlotte, North Carolina. Hundreds of automotive teachers from the US and Canada attended. I always enjoy seeing familiar faces and catching up. This year I was a
When I got my license I was thrilled with the freedom it gave me. I could jump in my car and cruise to nowhere. Today’s technology allows parents to always be in the back seat if they want to – well at least through cyberspace. One program, called Teensurance, empowers
This week’s blogs have focused on teen drivers. Remember, according to the CDC teens are more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident than from any other cause. What can you do to help your teen develop safe driving habits that will help them survive their most turbulent years
Yesterday my blog focused on “How to Choose a Car for Your Teen”. Today’s focus will be on safe driving for teens and what parents can do to help their teens. Toyota, the largest automaker in the world, created a program titled “Toyota Driving Expectations”. This program is “designed to
We have several nieces entering the driving age. I know when I turned 16 the first thing I wanted was to get my own car. But what is a good car for a teen and what should parents be looking for? According to AAA, teens need “safe, reliable and affordable
Today there is a “New GM”. This morning General Motors exited from bankruptcy. But now the difficult task begins…how to become profitable. In the GMBlog, Fritz Henderson GM President and CEO stated his priorities as (in this order) “customers, cars and culture”. If US sales can’t save GM, maybe China
Aren’t all hybrids the same? NO! The general definition of a hybrid is true – using two sources of power (in currently available hybrids that is a gasoline engine and an electric motor) to propel the vehicle down the road. The two types are full hybrids and mild hybrids (commonly
Have you seen the new Audi campaign, “Diesel – It’s no longer a dirty word”, promoting clean diesel technology? Below is a YouTube video from Audi of America. [youtube width=”560″ height=”340″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9lTGnvHMTw[/youtube] So what are the advantages of “Clean Diesel’s” over traditional gasoline engines? And even hybrids? Diesels got a bad
When you need a repair completed on your vehicle it is best to get several estimates. I have always suggested that it is important to get estimates from several sources: independents, chains, and dealerships. The key is to find a facility that is honest, reliable, and affordable. A shop that
General Motors hopes to begin selling the Chevy Volt in 2010. Tesla Motors currently sells the Tesla Roadster. Mitsubishi plans on selling the i MiEV. And now Best Buy is making its way as an electric vehicle retailer. Several media outlets (CNET, AutoBlog, Wall Street Journal) have reported that Best
This week I have focused on gas prices and fuel economy…but why is this so important? According to FuelEconomy.gov there are four main reasons why fuel economy is so important: 1. Increased fuel economy can save you money. Calculate your annual fuel costs and savings HERE. 2. Increased fuel economy
GasBuddy.com, the online leader in having a network of volunteers (gas spotters), gives you a way to locate the lowest gas prices as you are traveling in the United States and Canada. For travel across the United States and Canada, GasBuddy’s “USA Gas Temperature Map” and “Canada Gas Temperature Map”
This week’s blogs on Blog.AutoUpkeep.com have all been focused on gas prices in preparation for the upcoming July 4th holiday, where 32.6 million Americans will get in their cars and travel (according to AAA). Hyundai released information about a new promotion called “Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock”. Teaming up with the
Yesterday I blogged about how fuel taxes differ as you travel from one state to the next. At the end of this week, AAA estimates that 32.6 million Americans will get in their car for a trip of 50 miles or more. To help estimate the amount of money you
I often get people emailing me asking why gasoline prices vary so much from one state to another, especially noticeable for those that live near state lines. Each state has the authority to set its own fuel excise taxes. In addition, the federal government receives 18.4 cents per gallon. The
A new American automotive car company, V-Vehicle, which is headquartered in San Diego chose Louisiana for their assembly plant. V-Vehicle is heavily funded by T. Boone Pickens – an American billionaire and the face behind the Pickens Plan and by a venture capital firm that notably employs Al Gore (see
President Obama signed the bill containing the Car Allowance Rebate System program, also known in the press as the Cash for Clunkers legislation. To help consumers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (United States Department of Transportation) created a new website CARS.gov. CARS.gov published the following “Things to Know”: Your
How many of you in the United States have heard of Mahindra? I don’t see many virtual hands. Did you know that Mahindra started assembling Willys Jeeps in 1949? I recently learned about Mahindra when I was completing research on compact tractors. Some of the major players are John Deere,
As an owner of a 2000 GMC Sierra 2500, I recently received a letter in the mail from General Motors. The first paragraph of the letter was as follows: “First off, I’d like to thank you for being a GM customer. Your current and future business means a lot to
Sales over the last few weeks for the Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit have been growing significantly. Is this due to the economy and the fact that more people are driving older cars longer? Is it because over 1.5 million students (a 74% increase since 1999 – see data from
One way to get legislation through Congress is to tag it to an important Appropriations Bill. That’s how the “Cash for Clunkers” made it through the Senate. As part of the final Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2009, it is likely that President Obama will sign this Bill into Law. I
I remember the SHOs (Super High Output) of the 90’s with the Yamaha built 220 horsepower engine (See older model SHOs specifications). Those were rockets. Ford has now developed their own high performance engine with a whopping 365 horsepower with decent mileage to boot. Here are some of the specifications
General Motors have been pushing the GM Reinvention campaign…launching a website and advertisements on the web, TV, YouTube, and radio. Doesn’t “Reinvention” sound much better than “Restructuring” or “Reorganizing”? Merriam-Webster defines “invent” as “to devise by thinking” and “to produce (as something useful) for the first time through the use
In today’s economy when a dollar needs to be stretched to two, the decision to fix your current car or to buy a new one may seem like a monumental task. Back in the 1970s if you were lucky enough to get 100,000 miles on your car you knew you
With all the mergers, acquisitions, bankruptcies, and restructuring, is there a true difference between foreign and domestic automakers? Not really. In the past the big three in the United States were Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. Chrysler is now 20% owned by Fiat. The Japanese big three automakers are Honda,
Kia Motors America has a new forte, the Forte. The 2010 Kia Forte is designed to compete directly with compact leaders Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic. Let’s do a brief comparison: 2010 Kia Forte EX 2.0 L / 156 hp engine Optional 5 speed Automatic EPA Fuel Economy 27
When you hear the word “hybrid” you probably think of the best selling hybrid – the Toyota Prius. Some people want to be environmentally conscious but also ride in luxury style. Not to say that a Prius isn’t fun and stylish in its category, but you might need something that
So who owns Chrysler now? According the CNN, the division is as follows. 55% United Auto Workers‘ Retiree Medical Benefits Trust 20% Fiat (This could grow to 35%) 8% United States Government 2% Canadian Government Who owns the last 15% of Chrysler? I guess the newly formed company itself…Chrysler Group
Did you know that only 15% of drivers properly check their tires? (See Rubber Manufacturers Association Fact Sheet) Take this week to learn how to correctly check your tires. Then get into the habit of checking your tires at least once a month. To learn how to correctly check your
Last Saturday I was driving my Honda Civic with my wife and brother in the car. Unfortunately as I approached a hill a bunny jumped directly in front of my car. We heard it hit and I thought he was a goner. Since we were very close to home, we
Today Mitsubishi Motors announced that it will begin to mass produce the i-MiEV (Mitsubishi innovative Electric Vehicle). After distributing the vehicle first to corporations and government fleets, it will begin to sell the i-MiEV to individuals in Japan in April 2010 (with orders being taking this summer). The i-MiEV is
Becoming green in business is smart. It is good for the environment, good for consumers, and is just the right thing to do. Auto repair facilities can change their habits to become green. One organization, the Green Business Program, developed by San Francisco Bay Area local governments in collaboration with
You would think that in the middle of the worst economic downturn since the great depression that nobody would be purchasing cars. But that isn’t the case. Cars are still selling. Ford Motor Company, the only United States “Big Three” automaker not to file Chapter 11, has increased its market
Over the last 24 hours many have speculated on how GM will emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. I could speculate, give my opinion, hypothesize, and such…but in today’s economic climate it is difficult to project. The first step is to understand where GM thinks it is headed. Below are excerpts
Jay Leno, on Jay Leno’s Garage, recently test drove the Aptera 2e. The Aptera 2e is very lightweight and energy efficient. The Aptera 2e is actually registered as a motorcycle. Having an extremely low coefficient of drag (aerodynamics), is the key to the Aptera 2e. Features of the Aptera 2e
TDI stands for Turbocharged Direct Injection. Today’s TDI engines are “Clean Diesels”. The use of a computer controlled injection system, diesel particulate traps, oxidation catalyst, and other emission components, diesels can produce high fuel economy with low emissions. TDI engines can also run on biodiesel, usually B5 (5% biodiesel, 95%
Ever wonder what it is like driving a car on a race track? Volvo created “Volvo the Game” to give you the virtual experience. The game features two race tracks – the Eco Drive Arena in Gothenburg, Sweden, and Chayka track in Kiev, Ukraine. The game is free to download
Zero Pollution Motors and Motor Development International are working to develop a compressed air powered car. At low speeds the vehicle runs only on compressed air. At speeds over 35 mph the vehicle uses fuel to heat air. The fuel can be gasoline, ethanol, propane, or a bio-fuel. To see
Going green is the new catch phrase…and rightfully so. Ford Motor Company (quite possibly the only big three manufacturer to stave off bankruptcy, we will learn about GM’s fate in a week or so) is working to develop more eco-friendly products to meet consumer expectations who want to live more
When I think of Daimler AG (formerly Daimler-Benz/DaimlerChrysler), I think of Karl Benz – recognized as the inventor of the automobile (patented in 1886). When I think of Tesla Motors, I think of a company that has extreme potential to make a significant contribution during the electric car revolution. When
A safety recall occurs when a manufacturing defect has the potential, if the component failed, to cause injury or death to the occupants of a vehicle. If your vehicle has a recall, you should be notified by the manufacturer. However, if you like to be proactive or check to make
Today the White House outlined a plan to increase vehicle fuel economy and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. President Obama announced a policy that would significantly increase fuel economy ratings for vehicles starting in just 3 years – 2012. Here is an excerpt from the press release: The new standards, covering
Automotive dealerships and service facilities have followed the airline and hotel industry in developing loyalty programs for their customers. Today I was quoted in Margarette Burnette’s featured article – “Do car dealer loyalty plans save cash?” on Bankrate.com. Read the full article HERE.
Yesterday Chrysler released a list of 789 dealerships that will be closing due to their Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring. General Motors (GM), not yet in bankruptcy court, said today that they will begin notifying 1,100 “underperforming and low sales volume” dealerships “about their long term plans”. See the official press
Chrysler released a list of 789 Chrysler dealerships that it plans to close due to it’s “Chrysler Restructuring”. You can find the official document at ChryslerRestructuring.com, click on “Docket”, go to Docket #780, click on images, and then Exhibit A. A direct link to the pdf document can also be
It was just 6 years ago that former President Bush announced a $1.2 billion dollar initiative to accelerate hydrogen fuel cell technology. Has the pendulum now swung the other way? Recently President Obama cut $100 million from the 2010 fiscal budget in the hydrogen fuel cell program. The reasons cited
According to a recent Consumer Reports survey, more people are satisfied with independent repair facilities than with dealerships – although both scored relatively high on maintenance procedures. When searching for a quality repair facility you basically have three choices: Independents (locally owned and operated shops) Chains (e.g., AAMCO Transmissions, Car-X,
According to CNNMoney.com gas prices have risen 10% over the last two weeks. Yesterday, the Energy Information Administration reported that the average price of gasoline in the US was $2.24 a gallon. The key question is, “How high will gas prices rise this summer?” Typically demand increases as the Memorial
We are pleased to report that one of the nation’s leading homeschool magazines, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, reviewed our Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit on their website – TheHomeschoolMagazine.com. Below is a short excerpt from the review by Amy Christy: When I first thought about this course, I envisioned this
After spending the morning in our basement due to an extreme spring storm (three tornadoes north of us and torrential rain), I thought it was time to reemphasize to drivers the importance of not driving through a flooded road. Locally, where I live in the Ozarks, when it downpours roads
I used to own a towing company in International Falls, Minnesota – the Ice Box of the Nation. And you would expect that the number of service calls in the winter would be more in the summer. However, due to more people traveling, business stayed pretty consistent all year long.
On May 4th, 2009 Tata Motors indicated that they received “2.03 lakh fully paid bookings” (For those of us in the Western Hemisphere, 1 lakh = 100,000; so 2.03 lakh = 203,000) for the Tata Nano, the world’s cheapest car, since “bookings” started on April 9th. Tata has collected Rs.2,500
According the Bureau of Transportation Statistics the median age of a passenger car has risen to over 9 years. What does this mean? People are keeping their cars longer. This is no surprise given the dismal numbers that the automakers are reporting in sales. The fact that many Americans are
GM announced today that “a number of potential buyers have surfaced and expressed interest in the Saturn brand and retailer network” (GM Press Release). The billion dollar question is, who will buy it? Saturn, a division of GM since it was founded in 1985, has branded themselves as a “different
On April 30th, 2009 Fiat and Chrysler (now in Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection) entered into a “Global Strategic Alliance”. You can read Fiat’s press release here. As any automotive guru, the Fiat brand means to me “Italian”. But beyond that, I needed to complete some research to answer “Who is
One day has passed since America’s 3rd largest automaker, Chrysler filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Lawmakers have been working for months to nail down a bill that would help stimulate auto sales. Timeline: January 14, 2009 – “Accelerated Retirement of Inefficient Vehicles Act of 2009” – S. 247 Here
As you most likely know by now, America’s 3rd largest automaker Chrysler filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection today. You can read the email from outgoing CEO Robert Nardelli. In quick fashion, a new website appeared – www.ChryslerRestructuring.com. Instead of regurgitating what was said on the networks, cable channels, Twitter,
On Monday April 27th, GM’s press release “GM Accelerates its Reinvention as a Leaner, More Viable Company” generated tons of posts on Twitter. The key question is, “Will this actually make GM viable?” An overview of the changes: GM focuses on Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC – Personally, I don’t
Ford proved that eco-driving techniques can make a significant difference in fuel economy. In my blog on April 22nd titled “Eco-driving and fuel economy – a test for the driver” I highlighted the ten eco-driving techniques that Ford advocates increases mileage. Their goal was to drive 1000 miles in an
On Saturday April 25th, 2009 I attended the California Automotive Teachers Conference at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Sacramento. After the conference I visited a friend in Santa Clara for a few days. I was excited to see him and his family. On Sunday before taking his children to a
Thanks to 40 teachers that attended my two sessions titled “You Know Cars, They Know YouTube” at the California Automotive Teachers Conference at the UTI campus in Sacramento, California. Here is link to the presentation. This presentation discusses how generational differences exist in learning. Incorporating Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Wikis
Education News… Sometimes you just need an easy way to collaboratively share ideas with students, work colleagues, or family members. Why not use a “Wiki”? A wiki allows all users to have the editing power on your website using a simple WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) editor.
After yesterday’s post regarding “eco-driving” tips, I thought I should keep the theme going with “earth friendly” advice. I was driving today behind a 1990s era pickup that was burning and dripping oil. Since the smell was so bad, I wanted to get around it. At the next stop light
Can you drive 1,000 miles on a tank of gas? With my fuel sipping Honda Civic I can go about 450 miles on a full tank (13 gallon). Ford is going to give the 1,000 miles on a tank for a test on its new 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid using
According to AutomobileMag.com and AutoBlog.com Tata Motors has received 500,000 pre-orders for its Nano in just 15 days. Let’s do a little price comparison. Tata Nano ~ $2250 Sears Craftsman Garden Tractor ~ $2700 Samsung HDTV ~ $2200 Apple MacBook Pro ~ $2500 Boetie GM Monogram Canvas Louis Vuitton Bag
As money is being bled by General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford in Michigan, will new start-up companies in California emerge as major players in auto manufacturing? Electric and plug-in hybrids are the driving force…along with President Barack Obama and the Federal Government waving $2.4 billion to get the ball rolling.
Two common questions asked by consumers if they would purchase an all-electric car are: 1) What is the cost? 2) How far can it go before it needs recharging? Let’s address the second question. This question is also referred to as “range anxiety” – the fear of running out of
We all know from the daily news that new car sales have been in a freefall. This means that most people are keeping their cars longer. Did you know that the median age of a vehicle in the United States in 1990 was 6.5 years and lately the median age
On a hot summer day you walk up to your car and gasp to get inside. You rush to lower the windows, but still, whew…it is hot inside! The 3rd Generation 2010 Toyota Prius will combat this common problem. By installing photovoltaic solar cells on the roof, the sunlight powers
Wouldn’t you love to limit the speed of your teen driver? How about the audio level of the sound system to minimize distractions? Ford Motor Company introduced MyKey ™ to address these issues. Through the vehicle’s message center, parents will have the option on some 2010 Ford vehicles (the Ford
When you don’t want to be under the hood of a car, make a paper car with your kids. Designer Mizorogi Akira put together a great collection of paper craft cars for Mitsubishi. The paper cars can be printed off in color or black and white. The website has instruction
On the West Coast, electric charging stations are gaining attention once again. Portland General Electric (PGE), a utility that claims that their “customers are number one in the nation in purchasing renewable power”, is teaming up with Mitsubishi and the state of Oregon to create a network of charging stations
Yesterday the White House announced that the US federal government is going to purchase about 17,600 fuel efficient cars by June 1st, 2009. See the official press release. The federal government will purchase all of the vehicles from two companies they already bailed out, Chrysler and GM, and Ford which
America no longer has the greatest number of automotive buyers. China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, reported through the Xinhua News Agency that sales exceeded 1 million vehicles in March. Small passenger cars make up the majority of the sales in China. According to the Autodata Corporation, sales in the United
Do you like the “New Car Smell”? I hope not! Plastics, adhesives, and sealers release numerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. A study titled “Toxic at Any Speed: Chemicals in Cars and the Need for Safe Alternatives” found toxic chemicals releasing inside cars. Over the past few years
Last night I watched NBC’s Dateline investigation on a company proclaiming that by installing their device, The Hydrogen Assist Fuel Cell, it is very rare that you don’t increase your fuel economy by 50%. The device, which costs about $2000 installed, was installed on a vehicle that Dateline purchased. The
Those that seriously consider purchasing a hybrid generally have the overarching questions – “How long will the hybrid battery pack last?” Or, “How durable is the hybrid.” Gas-electric hybrids are being produced by about every automaker. The Toyota Prius, the industry leader, is the most popular hybrid car. The top
Many people think that electric cars are new technology. In contrary, electric cars have been around for over 100 years. Did you know that in 1900 more electric vehicles were sold than gasoline and steam powered vehicles? (See Source) Electric development is gaining speed. A relatively new California based start
As I watch the news and read the blogs I wonder if in five years if there will be even one of the big Detroit three still standing…and more importantly, profitable. I wonder how big icons that transformed this country since the early 1900s can be in such dire condition.
Today I presented “You Know Cars, They Know YouTube” to a group of about 20 automotive teachers at the Illinois College Automotive Instructors Association spring conference hosted at Prairie State College. I have another session tomorrow. This presentation focused on the need for basic car care in schools and how
Today was the launch of the Tata Nano – a 2 cylinder (0.6 liter engine, that’s 38 cubic inches) car with a mere length of 3.1 meters (about 10 feet). Will this car impact society like the Ford Model T and Volkswagen Beetle? Between 1908 and 1927 over 15 million
When you purchase new tires who is going to let you know if there is a recall? No one unless you register your tires. Every tire has a DOT number stamped on the side. DOT stands for the Department of Transportation. If your service center doesn’t register the tires you
Following is link to a great article highlighting the importance of basic car care education for all drivers. DD Bixby from the News-Review highlights Ron Sperry’s class at Roseburg High School in Oregon. Roseburg is one of 300+ schools using the Auto Upkeep curriculum in the US and Canada to
Yesterday I accompanied my sister to a well known automotive repair chain to help her purchase two tires for her Honda Civic. We asked the salesperson about the Uniform Tire Quality Grading ratings of Treadwear, Traction, and Temperature and what was included in the out the door price. We wanted
See what Jamin and her husband have to say about the Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit – I like how the workbook chapters break down one section of the car at a time. It goes from the most basic to the more complicated. In the workbook each chapter has web
I often get emails with people asking me, “What does it cost to replace _____?” The quick answer is that it really depends on the vehicle. My best advice is to call around to at least three service centers (dealer e.g., Ford), chain repair center (e.g., Midas), and a local
I am pleased to announce that Miss Jocelyn, the top commenter at HomeschoolBlogger.com and publisher of www.aponderingheart.com, recently reviewed our Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit. You can read the review and comments at https://aponderingheart.com/blog/?p=1900. I also pasted the review below: Auto Upkeep Homeschool Curriculum Kit review by Jocelyn Dixon (17
It is February 28th and I am reading my April edition of Motor Trend. (Does it bother anyone that magazines and textbooks for that matter seem to put there publication dates more and more in the future?) Anyways, this is a great magazine…and helps me keep current in the ever-changing
It is 1 am … I have been working diligently expanding the video links on www.Video.AutoUpkeep.com. Over the next few days Linda and I will also be working on creating more Auto Upkeep themed videos…the next one should be “How to Test an Alternator”. Check out our video site when
Tucker – The Man and His Dream Who Killed the Electric Car?
In addition to publishing the book Auto Upkeep, we have begun to shoot, edit, and publish basic car care, maintenance, and repair videos. Our YouTube Channel is “AutoUpkeep”. Go to www.YouTube.com/autoupkeep
This is the first post of The Auto Upkeep Blog. After publishing our websites (RollingHillsPublishing.com and AutoUpkeep.com) for the last few years, we thought we (Linda and Michael Gray) needed to get into the blog world. In this blog we will post everyday happenings from Auto Upkeep, new products that
