What You Should Know About Your Windshield

Your vehicle’s windshield is designed to provide you with a clear view of the road and surrounding elements. A windshield is designed to be very strong, made like a sandwich of two layers of glass with a vinyl layer in between. Sometimes the windshield will get damaged due to small pebbles cracking the glass or major auto collisions that destroy it. When your vehicle’s windshield is damaged, here is what you should know about windshield repair versus windshield replacement.

Windshield Repair:

If you have a small scratch, ding, or chip, your windshield can simply be repaired. The auto body technicians at Robert’s Auto Repair will use vacuums and resin to remove air from the damaged area and fill it with resin to seal the crack. The resin is clear and becomes invisible, allowing the windshield to be restored and roadworthy.

Windshield Replacement:

If you have a large crack or major breaks in your windshield, your vehicle will require a windshield replacement. A windshield replacement involves the removal of the current windshield and the fitting of a new windshield. After the Robert’s Auto Repair technician removes the damaged windshield, your vehicle’s frame will be cleaned and repaired. After that, we will install the new windshield by applying a bead of urethane on the frame to bond the new windshield to the vehicle.

At Robert’s Auto Repair, we handle the windshield repair and replacement in-house on our facility. Handling this task on location allows us to repair your windshield faster, which in turn, allows you to get back out on the road in a shorter timeframe.

If your vehicle’s windshield requires repair or replacement, contact us online to schedule an appointment. Got questions? Call our main number at (831) 373-1535. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon!

 

Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/what-you-should-know-about-your-windshield/

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A Must-Have for Winter: Snow Tires

For residents of West Chester, and Chester County in general, this winter’s weather has made the daily commute extremely dangerous.    As an auto body shop,  we…

The post A Must-Have for Winter: Snow Tires appeared first on Dashboard Blog.

Source: http://www.grandsportautobody.com/blog/benefits-snow-tires/

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4 Ways To Find The Best Auto Body Shop in West Chester, PA

Most people look forward to needing an auto body shop in West Chester PA like they look forward to having extensive dental repair – it’s typically not…

The post 4 Ways To Find The Best Auto Body Shop in West Chester, PA appeared first on Dashboard Blog.

Source: http://www.grandsportautobody.com/blog/best-auto-body-shop-west-chester-pa/

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Radiator Repair: Take The Pressure Off!

Spring is here, and no one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a rainy spring day! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service before the hot summer months are here. To keep your car running smoothly year-round and to protect your engine from overheating, resulting in a radiator repair, it's important to schedule regular radiator service with a qualified auto mechanic. A dependable vehicle is not an automatic thing. It requires extra attention, time, and financial investment.

Source: http://www.elkrivertireandauto.com/tips-blog/radiator-repair-take-the-pressure-off

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Radiator Service: Don’t Let It Blow!

Spring has arrived! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service. No one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! A professional radiator service will keep your car running smoothly and protect your engine from overheating, resulting in a radiator repair. A dependable vehicle doesn't just happen--it requires your attention, time, and some financial investment.

So take the pressure off and cool down your radiator by taking preventative maintenance measures and complete any radiator repair that is needed. Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick radiator service, or it could involve a more complex radiator repair. A trained technician can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle's cooling systems to determine what type of radiator service or repair work is needed.

Source: http://www.excelautoandtire.com/tips-blog/radiator-service-dont-let-it-blow

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4 Reasons Why Robert’s Auto Repair Is Equal To Or Better Than A BMW/MINI Dealership

If you own a BMW or Mini, you may be inclined to have it serviced at a BMW or Mini dealership. For BMW owners, there is a nearby BMW dealership, but for Mini owners, the closest MINI dealership is over an hour’s drive up to Santa Clara.

Robert’s Auto Repair is an independent auto repair and auto body center that is equal to, if not better than the BMW and MINI dealerships, and here are 4 reasons why:

1. Robert’s Auto Repair has recently hired two Master Technicians who specialize in BMW and MINI repair and maintenance. These Master Techs have many years of experience and there is no BMW or MINI repair issue they cannot handle.

2. BMW has scope services, and you’re getting the same level of service at Robert’s Auto Repair as you would at the dealership (which is more than what you would ever get at a Jiffy Lube).

3. Robert’s Auto Repair has access to stock BMW and MINI parts, as well as less pricey, aftermarket parts.

4. If your BMW or MINI gets into an accident, Robert’s Auto Repair will restore your vehicle’s bodywork to factory specifications. No dealership can provide the auto body repair that we can; nor can the dealership give your vehicle a new paint job with environmentally-friendly Waterborne paint.

If your BMW or MINI automobiles require bodywork, a new paint job, mechanical repair, tires, or detail work, contact Robert’s Auto Repair today.

Contact us online to schedule an appointment, or call our main number at (831) 373-1535. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon!

Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/4-reasons-why-roberts-auto-repair-is-equal-to-or-better-than-a-bmwmini-dealership/

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Radiator Service: Don’t Let It Blow!

Spring has arrived! Now is a good time of year to get a radiator service. No one wants to get stranded on the side of the road on a hot summer day! A professional radiator service will keep your car running smoothly and protect your engine from overheating, resulting in a radiator repair. A dependable vehicle doesn't just happen--it requires your attention, time, and some financial investment.

So take the pressure off and cool down your radiator by taking preventative maintenance measures and complete any radiator repair that is needed. Keeping your vehicle cool under the hood may only mean a quick radiator service, or it could involve a more complex radiator repair. A trained technician can perform a detailed inspection of your vehicle's cooling systems to determine what type of radiator service or repair work is needed.

Source: http://www.excelautoandtire.com/tips-blog/radiator-service-dont-let-it-blow

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Privacy Auto Glass on Cinderella’s New Carriage by Maybach

The luxury automotive manufacturer, Maybach, has just submitted its entry for the 2011 LA Auto Show Design Challenge, putting forth a recreation of the classic Berline carriage into an updated version of Cinderella’s enchanted pumpkin.  Among other things, the Maybach Berline is going to be fitted with oversized moulded auto glass panels for the gull-wing doors, a virtual chauffeur centre, and retractable stairs: Cinderella’s ideal fairytale experience, in other words.

The first thing that pops into your head when you see the Maybach Berline is simply awe.  The whole thing is gorgeous, and with the huge auto glass doors, looks like something that has popped straight out of a futuristic film.  This is in keeping with the theme of the contest: the LA Auto Show Design Challenge is basically a competition for various automakers to see which one can design the next “dream car” for Hollywood.

The Berline is in good standing in the competition.  Equipped with only the most luxurious amenities and provided with a teleoperation system that saves occupants of the car from having to deal with the (often intrusive) presence of a driver, the car is perfect for several dozen movie plots that are all takeoffs on the original Cinderella story.  Auto enthusiasts, especially those who loved the Mercedes-Benz GL Class, should also find another type of perfection in the car’s lines, as its futuristic look is not without references to some of the most popular cars of old.

The interiors are particularly attractive in the Maybach Berline.  One can practically envision all types of film sequences playing out in it due to the tête-à-tête positions of occupants—a return to the old horse-drawn carriages back in the day.

The Berline is going to be in stiff competition, though: also participating in the event are Mercedes-Benz, Subaru, Hyundai, and Honda.  Mercedes-Benz, which collaborated with Maybach in the creation of the Berline, is actually putting forth two entries from two separate branches, one from N. America and Germany.  The former is going to be fielding the Mercedes Silver Arrow, the latter the Smart 341 Parkour.  Subaru is going to be submitting the Subaru Horizon, designed by its team in Tokyo.  Hyundai is submitting the Stratus Sprinter, a car conceptualised for a vampire movie, and Honda is submitting the Honda Intelligent Horse, a futuristic concept car with striking lines and unusual wheels.

The concept cars all feature some sort of tweak or new technology, whether it is in the type of auto glass used or the very functionalities of the vehicle.  The winner of the LA Auto Show Design Challenge this year is going to be announced on the 17^th of this month, and car enthusiasts (as well as film-lovers) are already speculating heavily on which vehicle design shall take the prize.

Windshield Replacement Phoenix

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/news/privacy-auto-glass-on-cinderellas-new-carriage-by-maybach/371/

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Backup Cameras Likely Mandated for 2014

The Department of Transportation has, in the works, a mandate to install backup cameras in all vehicles. Congress expects to have a final rule on the requirement by December 31^st, 2012. The Department of Transportation has conducted a study which concluded that an estimated 228 people die and about 17,000 are injured annually in back over accidents and half of the deaths are of children. If this law does pass all passenger vehicles will have to have backup cameras installed by 2014. “Adoption of this proposal would significantly reduce fatalities and injuries caused by back over crashes involving children, persons with disabilities, the elderly and other pedestrians.” It is estimated to cost between $159-$203 to have the visual display screen installed and will be even cheaper for newer model vehicles. If this passes, economy cars will be hit the hardest.

Are you ready to have a backup camera installed on your vehicle?

Read the full article from Car Talk here.

Source: http://www.cartalksecondopinion.com/blog/2012/03/12/backup-cameras/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=backup-cameras

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Replacing Your Tires to Pass the Texas State Inspection

If you need to reregister your car in Texas, first you need to pass an inspection. The yearly inspection ensures that all Texas cars are safe to drive on the road. The tires are an important part of this inspection. If you need help passing the Texas state inspection, Family Tire & Service can help you get your car ready to pass.

The tires are one of the most important pieces of any vehicle inspection in Texas. If the tires are not in proper shape, it can cause them to slip on wet or icy roads or to blow out while driving. Both of these problems could cause a serious accident, especially if the car is being driven at a high speed. For this reason, Texas requires tires to have a tread depth of at least 3/32 inches.

Older or worn-out tires often don’t have the recommended tread depth because a portion of the tire has rubbed off while driving on the road. These tires need to be replaced before you can pass the inspection. Buying new tires is often the best option. You can buy used tires more cheaply, but these tires may wear out before your next inspection.

Not all new tires are created equally. You want to make sure that your new tires not only have the proper tread depth, but are also designed to last for several years. New tires differ in price, and the most expensive tires are not necessarily the best ones for your needs.

You’ll need a tire replacement service in Grapevine that you can trust if you don’t know a lot about tires. That way, you can make sure you are getting the tires you need to pass your inspection and drive safely throughout the rest of the year. Call Family Tire & Service at 817-488-5520 to schedule your inspection appointment today.

Source: http://www.familytireandservice.com/blog/replacing-your-tires-to-pass-the-texas-state-inspection/

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When Should I Get an Engine Tune-Up?

The engine of your vehicle is just like your heart and your brain combined—it is the activity center of your car and keeps every other part of your car in working condition. If your engine is not working correctly, your whole vehicle could suffer the consequences. Family Tire & Service is a full-service auto repair in Grapevine that offers quality engine tune up services.

Just like your own health, your vehicle requires frequent attention in order to maintain a good bill of health. Ignoring or putting off maintenance for your vehicle could result in the development of some very serious engine problems. Scheduling routine maintenance for your engine at least once a year will ensure that your engine remains in top shape for your daily commute.

Any time the “Check Engine” light appears on your car’s dashboard means that your engine has detected problems and needs immediate attention from a service professional. When left undetected, problems with a car’s oil pressure or a gasket can require costly repairs or replacements later on. Our service team at Family Tire & Service uses state-of-the-art diagnostics tools to detect these serious problems before they ruin your day—and your wallet.

Family Tire & Service understands that your car is both an important investment and your means of transportation, so we guarantee that our team will take great care of your vehicle from the time it enters our shop until the time you drive away. When your car is so important, why not take it to the best auto repair service in Grapevine? Call Family Tire & Service at 817-488-5520 today to schedule your next engine tune up. You can also contact us using our convenient online service scheduler.

Source: http://www.familytireandservice.com/blog/when-should-i-get-an-engine-tune-up/

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Gun Used to Break Auto Glass in Utah New Year’s Eve Rescue

New Year’s Eve turned from a fun holiday to a harrowing night for a Utah family on the way to Beaver Mountain when an accident caused their car to slide into the chilly Logan River.  Apparently, Roger Andersen was driving with his two children, both under ten years of age, and a friend when he lost control of the car in a section of Highway 89 known for its high accident occurrence.  The car fell into the river and while the adults were able to get out of the car subsequently, the two children were apparently stuck inside, with the auto glass windows blocking their egress and their seatbelts strapping them where they were.

Fortunately for the family, the locals passing by the area were quick to help.  One particular trio, composed of a former policeman named Chris Willden, was instrumental to the rescue of the pair of trapped children.  Willden and his companions, his father as well as his son, immediately jumped to action upon seeing the state of the family and the vehicle, and freed the children from their cage by shattering the auto glass of the rear window with his pistol.

According to Willden, it was necessary to take that measure because there was no other way of accessing the two children inside the rapidly flooding car.  Although he and his father—along with the adults with whom the children were travelling—first attempted to open the car doors to extricate the trapped pair, they found that the doors were locked.  The problem was aggravated by the rising water in the car, which could well have caused hypothermia for the two children had they been permitted to stay longer where they were.  Thinking quickly, the former police officer aimed his pistol downward—to ensure that the bullet would eject without hurting the two persons in the car—and at the window of the vehicle, breaking the tempered auto glass and thus gaining access to the inside of the vehicle.

There Willden managed to cut loose the two children from their seatbelts and extracted them from the flooding vehicle.  The unfortunate family in the accident was taken to nearby hospitals soon after, and were pronounced to be in fair condition only recently.  While the two children actually started out in the ICU of the children’s hospital to which they were brought, their status was deemed to be vastly improved after medical care was given to them to stave off the possibility of shock or hypothermia.  Local authorities are already crediting the quick and efficient rescue of the family to the dozen people who helped, most especially to Chris Willden, for his quick actions in breaking the auto glass to free the pair from the vehicle.

For more information from a criminal law attorney please visit DUI Lawyer Fresno

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/auto-glass/gun-used-to-break-auto-glass-in-utah-new-years-eve-rescue/466/

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Frank Myers Auto Named One Of Country’s Fastest Growing Businesses

Inc. magazine has named Winston-Salem based used car dealership Frank Myers Auto Maxx, one of the Fastest Growing Small Businesses In America for the second consecutive year. The exclusive ranking was celebrated with a gala on October 12, 2013 in Washington DC and featured Gary Vaynerchuk, Jim Collins, Marc Ecko and other notable speakers. Past members of the INC list include Facebook, Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Jamba Juice, Timberland, ClifBar, Patagonia, Oracle and Zipcar. In addition to Frank Myers Auto Maxx, the list added such powerhouses as Publix Supermarkets, CDW and Levi Strauss.

“For more than 30 years, Inc. has celebrated the fastest growing private companies in America. To be honored this year is a particularly notable achievement. To rank among the Inc. 500/5000, the companies had to thrive through three of the toughest years this economy has seen in recent memory. Success in such times is eloquent testimony to creativity, resilience, and tenacity,” said Inc. Editor in Chief.

“When my great grandfather opened the first Frank Myers store more than 83 years go, I would like to believe that he wanted his family to carry on the excellent business legacy that he began. This award is dedicated to him, my dad, and the other Myers family members who came before me and who will come after me,” said Tracy Myers, owner of Frank Myers Auto Maxx.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/5000.

The 2013 Inc. 500|5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth when comparing 2009 to 2012. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2009. They had to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2011. (Since then, a number of companies on the list have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2008 is $100,000; the minimum for 2011 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Companies on the Inc. 500 are featured in Inc.’s September issue. They represent the top tier of the Inc. 5000, which can be found at www.inc.com/500.

For more about Frank Myers Auto Maxx, visit their blog at http://www.WinstonSalemUsedCars.com

Source: http://www.winstonsalemusedcars.com/awards/frank-myers-auto-wins-award-2/

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Owner Of Frank Myers Auto Wins Emmy Awards

The owner of a Winston-Salem, NC used car dealership was recently honored to receive an Emmy® Award. Tracy Myers, owner of Frank Myers Auto Maxx, won the award for serving as Executive Producer of the inspirational short film documentary, “Esperanza.” Myers  owns several other businesses located in the Triad area including: WrestleCade Entertainment & America’s Most Liked Dealer Services.

“Esperanza” earned the Emmy® Awards for best historical/cultural documentary. Myers received an Emmy Award for his role as an Executive Producer of the film. He also served as Producer of the film, “Mi Casa Hogar,” which earned Nick Nanton an Emmy for Best Director. The Emmy® Ceremony was held on November 24, 2013 in Miami, Florida.

“Esperanza” is the inspirational story of how the Great American Pastime of Baseball led a young ball player to his life’s mission. While playing winter ball in the Dominican Republic in 1985, Dave Valle, a Seattle Mariner’s catcher, was swarmed by young children as most young fans would do. Dave soon realized, however, that an autograph was the last thing they wanted; they wanted food. They were starving, and they weren’t the only ones. The ballpark was surrounded by poverty stricken villages. After that eye opening experience Dave and his wife Vicky made a pact to return and make a difference. It was in that moment, Esperanza was born.

The film showcases Esperanza International – an organization that dedicates itself to free children and their families from poverty through initiatives that generate income, education and health, restoring self-worth and dignity to those who have lost hope. It reveals an in-depth look at Esperanza International’s incredible story and what can happen when people believe in an idea and act to make it come true.

“Mi Casa Hogar” reveals an in-depth look at the incredible story of the Casa Hogar children’s home in Acapulco, specifically how the home is providing a nurturing environment with a focus on education in this economically disadvantaged region. Casa Hogar is a children’s home that provides care, shelter, strength, love and hope in a Christian environment for orphaned and abandoned children in Acapulco, Mexico.

Tracy was previously featured in the film “Car Men”, which is a documentary about the Myers family and Frank Myers Auto Maxx. It won 5 Telly Awards and was also nominated for an Emmy.

About Tracy Myers

Tracy is an award-winning small business marketing & branding solutions specialist, car dealership owner, best-selling author, Emmy-winning movie producer, speaker, business coach and entrepreneur. He is commonly referred to as The Nation’s Premier Automotive Solutions Provider while Best-Selling author and legendary speaker Brian Tracy called him “a visionary… a Walt Disney for a new generation.”

He is also a Certified Master Dealer and was the youngest ever recipient of the National Quality Dealer of the Year award by the NIADA, which is the highest obtainable honor in the used car industry. His car dealership, Frank Myers Auto Maxx, was recently recognized as the number one Small Business in NC by Business Leader Magazine, one of the Top 3 dealerships to work for in the country by The Dealer Business Journal, one of the Top 15 Independent Automotive Retailers in the United States by Auto Dealer Monthly Magazine and one of the fastest growing privately owned small businesses in America by Inc. magazine.

Tracy has been featured in publications such as Forbes, USA Today and Success Magazine, been profiled on The Biography Channel and The History Channel, written for Fast Company, been a guest business correspondent for the FOX News Network plus he’s appeared on NBC, ABC and CBS affiliates across the country. His inspirational stories and strategies for success have given him the opportunity to share the stage with the likes of Jack Canfield, Zig Ziglar (Author of See You At The Top), James Malinchak (Star of ABC’s The Secret Millionaire), Brian Tracy, Bob Burg (Co-Author of The Go-Giver), Tom Hopkins and Neil Strauss (Author of The Game & Co-Author of The Dirt with Motley Crue)…just to name a few.

Tracy is recognized as one of the top thought-leaders in the business world and has authored or co-authored 7 best-selling books alongside Brian Tracy (Author of Eat That Frog), Jack Canfield (Author of The Secret, Creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul Series), Tom Hopkins (Author of How To Master The Art Of Selling) and many others, including the breakthrough #1 hit YOU Are The Brand, Stupid!. He was also featured in the Emmy nominated film “Car Men”, which won 5 Telly Awards, and won 2 Emmy Awards as the Executive Producer of the films “Esperanza” and “Mi Casa Hogar”.

As the founder and co-moderator of the Unfair Advantage Automotive Mastermind Group, he helps facilitate and stimulate the thought process of some of the auto industry’s brightest minds 3 times a year in Charlotte, NC.

As founder of WrestleCade Entertainment, he produces and promotes one of the largest sports entertainment events held annually on the East Coast which has raised thousands for charity and broken attendance records.

Tracy spends his spare time with charities that are close to his heart and has made his home in Lewisville, NC with his wife Lorna and their two children, Presley and Maddie.

For more information about Tracy, visit his website at TracyMyers.com

 

Source: http://www.winstonsalemusedcars.com/awards/frank-myers-auto-owner-wins-emmy/

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Infiniti All Set To Uncover The F1 Q50 Eau Rogue At Detroit Auto Show

Infiniti has confirmed its plan to launch a Formula One inspired Q50 concept car this January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Named ‘Q50 Eau Rouge’, the car has its name from one of the most exciting uphill corners of the Formula One track at Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. The Eau Rogue corner at the Formula One track race circuit is believed to be one of the most complex routes to navigate for most drivers since it requires exceptional focus and strength. Infiniti, however, is not willing to disclose any details as yet.

A prestigious brand from the Japan-based automaker Nissan, the Infinity Q50 Eau Rogue flawlessly mixes road car technology with distinguished motorsport vision, giving customers a perfect blend of extreme performance and super class design.

The Infiniti Q50 Eau Rogue luxury car includes aerodynamic styling treatments having design ingredients influenced by Infiniti’s joint venture with the world championship winning team, Red Bull Racing. Since Infiniti has spent millions of dollars on its partnership with the Red Bull, the need for an exclusively Red Bull-inspired Infiniti was always felt.

The lone teaser image of the car released by the company suggests a deluxe design with a ventilated top, a mesh grille, front spoiler and side mirrors crafted out of carbon fiber. The public is hopeful that these improvements will not just be superficial but more than skin-deep.

The success of Infiniti’s designs emanate tremendously from its core belief in increased comfort and improved car performance. Infiniti’s Executive Design Director, Alfonso Albaisa remarked that the inclusion of an increased number of exclusive technologies formed an important foundation for Infiniti’s extreme performance vision. This belief is already signified by the broad customer base the corporation has in over 50 countries.

The Infiniti Q50 Eau Rogue is expected to be unveiled publicly for the first time on January 13th at a press conference in Detroit.

Source: http://www.autoscraze.com/infiniti-all-set-to-uncover-the-f1-q50-eau-rogue-at-detroit-auto-show.html

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2014 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line – Review

The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle is immediately recognizable as a descendant of the hippie-inspired 1960s Bug. The shiny standard wheels are even modeled after the Bug’s wheels from decades ago. Under the surface, though, the Beetle shares most of its parts with workaday Volkswagens such as the Golf and Jetta. Since it is sold as both a coupe and a convertible, the Beetle decides to change up its Powertrain lineup in 2014.

Trim Levels

2014 Beetle is available in three trim levels differentiated by engine: base (1.8-liter turbo), TDI (diesel) and R-Line (2-liter turbo).

Exterior and Interior

The exterior of the 2014 Beetle is really fascinating and head turning. Standard features on all Beetle models are power operated fabric top, heated mirrors, heated windshield washer nozzles and three wheel choices, 17 inch alloy, 18 inch and 19 inch wheels.

The 2014 Beetle’s interior uses some nice materials, though the Golf is still the winner here. At least the dashboard can be dressed up with body-color inserts, which is necessary, to compete against MINI and Fiat. VW is proud of the R-Line’s standard Kaeferfach glove box, which is a heritage feature with an upward-opening door. The R-Line also has three secondary gauges atop the dashboard.

The 2-person backseat is certainly useful, but headroom in the hatchback is naturally limited by the sloping rear roof line. Cargo space in the hatchback is good 15.4 Cu ft in the trunk, but maximum capacity is only 29.9 Cu ft.

The Beetle was redesigned two years ago for both male and female buyers. The New Beetle met almost universal acclaim for its design when introduced but was not a big success. To attract more male buyers, its look is now more masculine, especially with the lower, flatter roofline and much upright windshield. It’s modern, but not in a trendy way. This shape should hold up over the years.

Safety Features

2014 Volkswagen Beetle has 4-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes and four airbags (front and full-length side-curtain). The R-Line’s (and GSR’s) front brake discs are slightly larger. It has good frontal and side impact safety. VW’s Car-Net connected services include crash notification, stolen-vehicle location, boundary and speed alerts, all accessed via a nifty Smartphone app.

Power and Performance

Beetle started the 2014 model year with a 2.5-liter five-cylinder in the base model, but Volkswagen replaced this engine with a new 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The 2.5-liter five-cylinder rated 170 horsepower and up to 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway; VW rates the new 1.8-liter turbo at 170 horsepower as well. The new turbo four-cylinder boosts gas mileage by 16 percent, however, for the best mileage, there’s the Beetle TDI Clean Diesel, scoring 28 and 41 mpg city/highway. The 2014 Beetle R-Line offers 210 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Most Beetles offered with a choice of five- or six-speed manual or six-speed automatic or dual-clutch automatic transmissions.
Another 2014 Beetle GSR has limited sales to 3,500 GSRs in total, each having a unique interior and exterior color theme and special equipment. It uses the same Powertrain as the Beetle R-Line.

Pricing and Availability

• MSRP of $45,100 – $72,300 and is available for sale.

Competitors

• Ford Mustang V6 convertible, Mini Cooper convertible, Fiat 500, Chevrolet Camaro

Pros

• Modern take on classic Beetle linesVintage touches available
• R-Line’s turbo thrust

Cons

• Small back seat
• Weak base five-cylinder
• Gas mileage less than impressive on non-diesels

The Verdict

The Beetle is a fantasy. It gives most of the Golf’s fundamental goodness and it packages those qualities in a uniquely eye-catching wrapper, particularly if Convertible models are chosen. Furthermore, the beetle is a nice and impressive choice for female.

Source: http://www.autoscraze.com/2014-volkswagen-beetle-r-line-review.html

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Safelite’s Internal Auto Glass Repair and Replacement Technician Contest Scheduled for Feb 8

After nearly half a year of qualifying contests and division competitions, the auto glass company Safelite’s internal competition for identifying the best auto glass repair and replacement technicians in the company is coming to its national heat, with the country’s best technicians coming to New Orleans on the 8^th of February to duke it out amongst each other.  The technicians shall be meeting in the River City Ballroom of Mardi Gras World, and the event shall be running from 8:00hrs to 17:00hrs of that day.

This competition has been going on for a while now, with the first event having taken place last year, on the 10^th of September for the auto glass repair company’s Southern California division.  Two more competitions took place in that same month, one for the South Atlantic and one for the technicians of Ohio Valley, followed by four competitions in October for the Pacific Southwest, Northwest, Mid-South, and South, in order of occurrence.  November had only two division contests, with the Midwest and the Rockies heats being decided, and the one contest for December was the North Atlantic division heat.

Also called the Best of Belron Competition, this company event is going to see contestants being tested on various skills and competencies, being asked to perform a range of procedures that shall include windshield repair and windshield replacement in order to demonstrate their skill at their chosen profession.  The requirements are quite rigorous and evaluation is famously strict, with speed not even taking the front seat when it comes to the most important aspects of the procedure or repair required: quality, strict technical prowess, and even interaction with the consumer are all looked into first and foremost in the contest, in order to ascertain a truly outstanding, superior breed of auto glass repair technician.

The national heat that is going to be taking place this February is of particular import because it decides who gets to represent the country in the coming global heat of the competition.  There are going to be 32 countries participating in the event, so winning that round—the final one—would be a most prestigious honour indeed for any auto glass technician.  The need to ensure that the country is well-represented also factors in the tension surrounding the coming event, so both participants and judges are expected to be fairly amped up for the contest.

The auto glass repair technician who wins the national heat gets more than the chance to represent the country in Barcelona, Spain on the 22^nd-24^th of May for the global part of the contest: he is also going to be taking home a total of $10,000 in pocket money as an additional reward.

Source: http://www.windshieldreplacementphoenix.org/auto-glass/safelites-internal-auto-glass-repair-and-replacement-technician-contest-scheduled-for-feb-8/475/

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What You Should Know About Your Windshield

Your vehicle’s windshield is designed to provide you with a clear view of the road and surrounding elements. A windshield is designed to be very strong, made like a sandwich of two layers of glass with a vinyl layer in between. Sometimes the windshield will get damaged due to small pebbles cracking the glass or major auto collisions that destroy it. When your vehicle’s windshield is damaged, here is what you should know about windshield repair versus windshield replacement.

Windshield Repair:

If you have a small scratch, ding, or chip, your windshield can simply be repaired. The auto body technicians at Robert’s Auto Repair will use vacuums and resin to remove air from the damaged area and fill it with resin to seal the crack. The resin is clear and becomes invisible, allowing the windshield to be restored and roadworthy.

Windshield Replacement:

If you have a large crack or major breaks in your windshield, your vehicle will require a windshield replacement. A windshield replacement involves the removal of the current windshield and the fitting of a new windshield. After the Robert’s Auto Repair technician removes the damaged windshield, your vehicle’s frame will be cleaned and repaired. After that, we will install the new windshield by applying a bead of urethane on the frame to bond the new windshield to the vehicle.

At Robert’s Auto Repair, we handle the windshield repair and replacement in-house on our facility. Handling this task on location allows us to repair your windshield faster, which in turn, allows you to get back out on the road in a shorter timeframe.

If your vehicle’s windshield requires repair or replacement, contact us online to schedule an appointment. Got questions? Call our main number at (831) 373-1535. Robert’s Auto Repair is conveniently located at 234 Ramona Avenue, Monterey, CA 93940. We look forward to serving you soon!

 

Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/what-you-should-know-about-your-windshield/

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Tracking True In North Carolina: Wheel Alignment In Burgaw

Wheel alignment is often overlooked by busy Burgaw and Leland motorists until serious tire damage has been done. One wheel can be knocked out of alignment by hitting a curb or pothole on a Wilmington highway or surface street.

When a vehicle’s out of alignment, one or more of the wheels does not track true and pulls against the others. This causes several serious problems. First off, the tires will wear out faster and will need to be replaced prematurely. It could also lead to expensive sedans suspension problems.

But the big issue for Burgaw, Leland, and Wilmington motorists is safety. When your sedans wheels are out of alignment, the vehicle will pull to one side, which could lead to an accident. When you’re out of alignment, you should have it taken care of right away at Atlantic Car Care in Wilmington.

When undergoing an alignment service at Atlantic Car Care, your sedans is put on an alignment rack where the tires, steering and suspension parts are checked for damage. Then the alignment is charted and checked against the factory settings.

Precision adjustments are made to bring the wheels back into alignment. This gets all four wheels going in exactly the same direction.

Leland motorists should be aware of the signs of alignment problems. These include the car pulling to one side. Also, the steering wheel may not be centered when you’re going straight. If you see the edges of one or more tires rapidly wearing down, you should have your Wilmington service center look it over. If you’ve been in an auto accident in North Carolina that involved a wheel, you should get your alignment checked.

Obviously, a big jolt can seriously knock things out of alignment, but Burgaw drivers also need to understand that a series of smaller ones can add up.

That’s why car makers recommend periodic alignment checks. If your sedans owner’s manual doesn’t specify, once a year might be appropriate. Or check with Mike Moore or your service advisor at Atlantic Car Care in Wilmington.

One thing’s for sure: the cost of the alignment at Atlantic Car Care is cheaper for Burgaw motorists than having to buy a couple of new tires because of neglect.

Source: http://www.atlanticcarcare.com/alignment/tracking-true-in-north-carolina-wheel-alignment-in-burgaw

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Honda to Unleash a New Production Model in December

Honda, one of the most popular automobile manufacturers of the globe, has revealed that it is working on a planned production model named VEZEL, which will offer the most outstanding features to car lovers in the coming months. The vehicle will be showcased during the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, which will open for general public on this Saturday and will close on December 1, 2013.

More information about the vehicle will be given in a press event on December 19, 2013 and the VEZEL will be on sale on the next day, December 20, 2013 in Japan.

Honda has combined features and values of different vehicles in the VEZEL and it is expected to be a completely new model. As per reports, the VEZEL possesses the elegance of a coupe, the functionality of a minivan and the dynamic qualities of an SUV.

The VEZEL has an extremely attractive exterior, having the coupe-like styling in its upper body and SUV-like stability in its lower body. Extremely sharp character lines have been used to combine these two different kinds of styling, which has resulted in a fascinating exterior design.

Other than that, the front seats of the vehicle offer a lot of personal space to passengers like in a coupe; whereas, the rear seats are extremely comfortable with superb elbowroom and modern functionality just like a high-class minivan.

Both gasoline and hybrid models will be on sale in Japan. While the gasoline model will have a 1.5 liter direct injection engine, customers will enjoy a SPORT HYBRID i-DCD (Intelligent Dual Clutch Drive) in the hybrid model with a 1.5 liter direct injection engine.

Both these models will offer brilliant fuel economy as well as driving performance due to the new-generation powertrain technologies.

The exterior design of the VEZEL has been made available on Honda’s website.

Source: http://www.autoscraze.com/honda-to-unleash-a-new-production-model-in-december.html

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