How will like to make some extra cash in your spare time? Do you have internet access, laptop/ desktop / tablet or you have a friend or family that can spare you a few minutes of the day on their device, instead of you spending your time on the social media sites, learn to code for free.
You might be able to create a new app, website or mobile application for a corporation or for yourself and make some extra cash.
Please think twice as it takes time, devotion and dedication to achieve proficiency.
Here are some free sites where you could learn to code for free.
Code.org
Launched in 2013, Code.org® is a non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science by making it available in more schools, and increasing participation by women and underrepresented students of colour.

www.codecademy.com
Codecademy is an education company. But not one in the way you might think. We're committed to building the best learning experience inside and out, making Codecademy the best place for our team to learn, teach, and create the online learning experience of the future.
www.codeavengers.com
Our team is based in Hamilton, New Zealand. We are passionate about using technology to develop fun and effective educational experiences. Since, we also love making music, we've created a song that explains our mission... we hope you like it!
www.khanacademy.org/computing/computer-programming
Learn how to program drawings, animations, and games using JavaScript & ProcessingJS, or learn how to create webpages with HTML & CSS. You can share whatever you create, explore what others have created and learn from each other!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYZF6oIZtfc
After Just Four Weeks, The Homeless Man Learning To Code Has Almost Finished His First App

Read more: http://www.businessinsider.com/homeless-coder-2013-9#ixzz3O3qdLtqd

entaprz team

There are many accessories you can purchase to protect your vehicle. Those mentioned here are just some of the most often chosen. Whether you are looking to protect the interior or exterior, measures taken to keep your vehicle looking its best and at the same time insuring retention of the vehicle’s top value will be highly beneficial when it comes time to trade it in or sell. Even if you are not looking at future values for sale, using accessories like new seat covers, floor mats or a car bra will make you proud to be seen in your vehicle as well as the protection these accessories will provide.

The front-end car bra is an accessory that will provide protection for your vehicle’s front end. Specially ordered for your vehicle, the car bra is made to fit snugly and perfectly for maximum protection. Its value is in its ability to act as a guard from road hazards such as bugs, chemicals such as tar and gravel on roadways and from pitting damage on your automobile’s grill and paint surfaces. The bra, while having an important protective feature, also gives your vehicle a classier appearance. Usually constructed of heavy vinyl and a firm padding underneath, the car bra will stand the test of time. Most vehicle bras are easy to install and remove. The benefits in adding value, protection and a sleek look to your vehicle are well worth the small investment of a car front-end bra.

Bug shields are yet another valuable protective piece you can add to your vehicle. Modern bug shields are designed aerodynamically to not only compliment the look of your car’s front end, but they also maximize fuel usage. By not allowing a pushing type of air force against the vehicle, aerodynamically made shields create an ease in air flow so that your car doesn’t have to use extra fuel to compensate for the additional pressure or work. Bug shields are great for protecting your car from road debris, excessive bug collection and chipping from stones or other road hazards.

A car cover is an essential accessory if you must leave your vehicle outside in the harsh elements of the sun, rain or snow. It will protect your car from wear and tear and the hazards of extreme weather conditions when garaging or cover protection is not available. It should fit snugly around the normally exposed portions of the vehicle. Car covers are usually made of heavy duty protecting materials that will keep the damaging weather elements away from the automobile’s painted surfaces and will protect from the above mentioned weather hazards. Car covers are especially valuable if you use them while shopping or when the vehicle is parked anywhere someone or something can bump into the vehicle and create paint or body damage.

Floor Mats are the perfect accessory to not only give your interior a new or more finished look, they are indispensable in the protection they provide against wear and tear on the floor carpet. You can purchase floor mats in most any variety of colors, styles, and designs. They are available in materials such as rubber and clear plastic to name a few. Floor mats can be made specific to your vehicle or purchased at auto parts stores. The benefits to having floor mats cannot be overstated. They can aid in comfort when driving on long road trips, they protect from shoe damage in the acceleration area of the floor and they keep everyday dirt and grime from attaching to your vehicle’s original carpet. A purchase of floor mats at nominal prices can give your vehicle protection from years of floor or carpet damage in the vehicle.

No matter what part of the world you live in, tinting your vehicle’s windows can offer protection in many ways. Window tinting has long been known to reduce the heat coming into your vehicle. Anyone that owns an automobile in the southwest will tell you that the sun’s heat (and damaging ultraviolet rays) is not only destructive, it is downright uncomfortable. So in these two ways, tinting can increase your comfort while driving and decrease fading or discoloration of the interior’s vinyl or fabric work. If you choose a safety film, you will get even more protection.

A safety film on your vehicle’s windows has been known to reduce injuries to occupants from flying shattered glass in auto accidents. If you have a large object hit your windshield, safety film may deter the object from coming directly into your vehicle and hitting any passengers. If you live in tornado or earthquake zones, this type of film can prevent injury as well by acting as a buffer between you and the shattered glass.

Lastly, but certainly not less important, seat covers have numerous benefits. Seat covers protect the material that covers the original fabric of your car’s seats. This is very important for owners that live in sun drenched areas of the world, work in conditions where your clothing is contaminated with dirt, grease, or other destructive materials and for those owners that participate in activities such as biking, hiking, or swimming (the chlorine alone is severely damaging if you are not fully dried off). Seat covers are not just about protecting, they can also provide a tailored and clean look to your vehicle’s interior.

Your vehicle will look well kept and well taken care of if you purchase seat covers before damage occurs. You can pull them off before selling or trading in your vehicle for that eye-appealing look that says you the owner took very good care of the car. Sometimes a nice and fresh looking interior will sell a vehicle even if the exterior is a bit worn.

While there are many other accessories out there for your vehicle, the ones mentioned here will go a long way in giving you peace of mind. You will know that you have done what you can to insure that your vehicle will look close to new even when it is ten years old. If you want to sell your vehicle someday, you have applied accessories that will most likely bring you maximum dollar at selling or trade-in time. You can never lose by adding protective accessories to your car.

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

Items Available For Wholesale


In stock we have available is OBD2 Bluetooth Adapter, wholesale quantity minimum purchase is 50 units at attractive prices, delivered in 15 working days please email olu@emech.com.ng or call 08036142491 for more details.

Item presently selling for NGN 7.500 - 8,500


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQSsUPrGLHs

Thanks to the increasing complexity of modern automobiles over the past few years, most professional auto shops and garages now require a selection of automotive scan tools with which to carry out day to day diagnostic work in order to pinpoint any problems with an engine or engine management system in order to discover what action is needed in order to effect a repair with the minimum of error and maximum efficiency.

There are a variety of different tools available to carry out diagnostics and scans on different types of car and to prepare to repair as effectively as possible. Knowing in detail what issues are causing a car engine to behave in a particular manner is the key to being able to correct the fault in a timely and effective manner.
Different jobs require different tools, and some are more complex than others. Typically, any job to repair a modern car begins with plugging the scanner into the engine management computer and downloading a log of current performance date. This will include fuel consumption, and time since the last service. It will give the mechanic a complete overview of how the engine is operating, and where there might be errors occurring. The scan will show the mechanic examining the engine whether there are any problems with the fuel supply, the electronics, the air filters, and the running temperature, it will also provide plenty of insight into whether any problems are related to an issue within the engine itself, or indeed within the way the management system has been set up.

A complete diagnostic of a car’s engine management computer system will typically offer an almost immediate list of the performance details for the vehicle, and a good automotive scan tool will shave hours off an otherwise lengthy repair task, as the mechanic will be able to tell almost immediately what is wrong, and what needs to be done in order to repair the damage.

Of course, technology only works well in the hands of those who understand it, and are able to sift through the data provided through a scan and interpret it correctly. However, the latest automotive scan tools have been designed to be almost fool proof, and are able to draw on the experience and insight of hundreds of different programmers and mechanic’s personal records in order to provide a more accurate overview of the data and even present possible solutions to many of the most common problems that a mechanic might encounter.

While some manufacturers release their own range of tools, that are aimed at main dealers, a commercial mechanic may deal with many different models and manufacturers in their day to day role, and this is why it is often an idea to purchase automotive scan tools, as they will be compatible with a range of different vehicles from different international makers, and therefore offer greater flexibility without having to compromise on quality or pay repeatedly for scanners for every single car that is on the market.
While commercial level automotive scan tools are expensive to install and themselves require regular system updates that carry the latest settings for every new vehicle released, they pay for themselves almost immediately thanks to the time that they are able to save, and the fact that without them, even the most experienced mechanic would struggle to discover the inner workings of the latest car engines, which have been designed to be efficient, and robust, but are increasingly too complex for anyone but the experts to consider carrying out any work on.
Smartphone apps are now appearing for car diagnostics and control, and apps that exist on the market include: fuel consumption control, remote start, create a digital dashboard or a heads-up display as well as clear the ‘Check Engine’ light, and investigate its cause, you'll need a wireless ODB2 bluetooth device connected to your car to communicate with the app and a good app available in the Google store is the Torque Pro app is helping drivers get better by allowing them to see what their car is doing in real time. The app also has OBD color codes showing where the problem is, gives information on the car’s performance and temperature.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKeyn72-wyU


Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

charlesadeoye:
. Thanks bro, but I don't think its actually a free download and is it compatible with a winCE device? Have you downloaded a copy with the nigerian map working on it? Thanks for the prompt response

The app is compatible with android devices that's why it's in the Google Play-store. Thanks

Grab a copy of

These codes are recommendations not a requirement.

Manufacturers may not follow these, but most do. Check your vehicle’s service manual for DTC meaning if you think the codes you are getting do not make sense.

Remember:
1) Visual inspections are important!
2) Problems with wiring and connectors are common, especially for intermittent
faults.
3) Mechanical problems (vacuum leaks, binding or sticking linkages, etc.) can
make a good sensor look bad to the computer.
4) Incorrect information from a sensor may cause the computer to control the
engine in the wrong way. Faulty engine operation might even make the
computer show a known good sensor as being bad!

http://www.totalcardiagnostics.com/files/Diagnostic-Trouble-Codes-TOAD.zip

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

charlesadeoye:
Where and how do I get this @op?

https://play.google.com/store

Search for MapFactor

Do you have an android tablet or phone. head over to Google Play, search and download MapFactor: GPS Navigation, it works offline and multiple maps available including Nigeria (See list below). Please note heavy initial data download of maps.

Description
MapFactor Navigator is a free turn-by-turn GPS navigation app for Android phones and tablets using OpenStreetMaps data. Maps are installed on the SD card so there is no need for an Internet connection when travelling. Map and app updates are FREE every month.
To contact us or make your views heard please use forum.mapfactor.com as Google Play does not allow us to answer your comments or queries.
MapFactor also makes the popular NavigatorFREE for PC, Pocket PC and WinCE.
OpenStreetMap is a collaborative project to create a free editable map of the world. For more information see www.openstreetmap.org
Voice guidance
* intuitive voice navigation in different languages
* door to door route planning
* cross-border routing without the need to switch between countries or to a less detailed map
* overview of the upcoming manoeuvre and distance shown on the screen
GPS satellite navigation
* 2D/3D mode allows realistic visual map display
* day/night modes switch colour schemes for day or night time driving
* map rotates in driving direction, or north up
Searching
* find nearest points of interest
* postcodes
* full GB postcodes (1.8 million)
Speed cameras
* hear audible warnings as you approach speed cameras
Features
* add your own favourite locations and routes
* routing modes for car, pedestrian, truck
* route avoidance - block off certain road from your route
------------ OpenStreetMap data ------------
= Africa
Algeria
Angola
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central African Republic
Chad
Comoros
Congo
Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Djibouti
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Ethiopia
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea Bissau
Guinea
Ivory Coast
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Madagascar
Malawi
Mali
Mauritania
Mauritius
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Niger
Nigeria
Rwanda
Sao Tome And Principe
Senegal
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Africa
Sudan
Swaziland
Togo
Tunisia
Uganda
United Republic Of Tanzania
Western Sahara
Zambia
Zimbabwe

https://play.google.com/store

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

For all the Toyota lovers...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5zcCk-uF3g

Over all my years of driving the one thing that still causes me the most concern is when I hear a new noise. This drives me particularly crazy every spring. After months of having the windows rolled up it's very disconcerting when you first roll down the window to get a whiff of that fresh springtime air and you start hearing all those noises you car makes, and perhaps has been making all winter long. Then you start to think "what's that noise?", "how long has it been doing that?"

You drive your car everyday. You know how it should handle. If you notice something amiss, and more than once, get it checked out. You may save yourself a lot of inconvenience and money in the long run. You and your mechanic need to be a team when it comes to the maintenance of your car. You however need to be the eyes and ears of the team.

Every so often pay attention when you're pulling your car out of a parking space. Is there any fresh fluid? It's hard to tell sometimes due to the stains left from other cars. How about your driveway? Are you seeing new stains? If you are, what color is the fluid? Oil will be quite obvious, appearing black or dark brown. Antifreeze is fairly easy to recognize too with it's yellow green color. Also, antifreeze has an unmistakable odor. A reddish fluid could be transmission or power steering fluid.

How is your car handling? It is pulling to one side when you stop? It may be time for a front end alignment. Keep a check on your tire pressure. Under inflated tires can cause lower petrol mileage. Get your tires rotated on a regular basis to help prevent wear.

Are you breaks squealing? Get to the mechanic as soon as possible, don't let this problem go on. If you do continue to drive you may find yourself replacing worn rotors along with break pads. Rotors can be very expensive.

Is you car acting sluggish? It is not accelerating like it used to? It may be time for a tune up. Are you noticing a hesitation? May be the petrol filter.

Make sure you have your oil changed every 5,000 kilometers. This is a very good rule for any car, new or old. When I bought my new Toyota truck twenty years ago the first thing my mechanic said was that if I kept the oil changed I'd "get at least 500,000 kilometers out of the engine". Well, fifteen years later I had 189,000 and the engine was still going strong. Unfortunately the frame was rusting, which was her ultimate demise.

Cars manufactured today are much better than they were 20 years ago and if you listen to what you car is trying to tell you, you should be able to have many worry free years with your car too.

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

Today's thieves typically are not teens out for a joy ride, but rather professionals involved with organized theft rings.
While car thieves do like luxury cars, they mainly focus on the more popular vehicles: Hondas, Toyotas and Mazdas. These in-demand vehicles can be stripped down in less than 30 minutes and sold for parts or shipped abroad.

That means car owners need to take extra measures to protect their vehicles from sophisticated criminals.
The good news is that, with a combination of approaches, it is possible to achieve a strong defense against vehicle theft.
The first step is to use common-sense measures. Never leave keys in the car with the engine running. Don't hide a spare key in the vehicle. Close all windows and lock all doors when leaving your vehicle. Park in a well-lit area and, when at home, keep your car in the garage. Don't leave valuables in your car.

The next step is to use theft-prevention products. A thief is less inclined to steal your car when it has visible and audible warning devices like a wheel lock or alarm system. Immobilizers - which include smart keys, kill switches and fuel cut-off devices - offer another means of protection. Keep in mind that these will help deter some thieves, but a professional still can outsmart them all.
Vehicle identification number (VIN). Stolen cars are more easily traced and recovered when vehicle VIN numbers have been etched on car windows and expensive accessories.
Remove registration papers from your motor vehicle, to make it difficult for the thief to sell it on the black market.
To prevent the new car theft, manually lock your car door-by hitting the lock button inside the car -- that way if there is someone sitting in a parking lot watching for their next victim, it will not be you.

When you hit the lock button on your car upon exiting, it does not send the security code, but if you walk away and use the door lock on your key chain, it sends the code through the airwaves where it can be instantly stolen
An important investment, is to have a tracking and recovery system. The most effective systems connect directly to reputable agencies, use radio frequency technology and are covert so they cannot be disengaged - like the LoJack system, for example. Systems that use only global positioning system technology often present tracking limitations.
Remember, the best theft protection is a combination of common sense, audible or visual alarms and a recovery system that will get your vehicle back if it is ever stolen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97ceREjpIvI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuLKormzWE4

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

We are happy to to have an expert in vehicle transmission fluids contributing his great knowledge to autocare. With more than 20 years experience and steering Christegin Nigeria enterprises, their top selling products, which include the Unique electrolyte, Holnet automatic transmission fluid, Unique radiator fluid coolant and the Holnet car wash fluid. If you are anywhere in Ipaja call at 1 Ojo Fehintimi Str Majiyagbe or call 08096627264

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

Moved to the Autos Section.

https://www.nairaland.com/2036070/expert-fluids-engine-oil-lubricants

"Does Your Car Break Down Often? Are You Spending More On Fuel Than You Thought You Would? Is Maintaining Your Car Eating Into Your Budget?"

From: Emech
RE: Simple Car Care Tips and Advice

Did you miss an important meeting because your car decided to break down? Has your vehicle started sounding like a tractor? Do you suffer the elements because the cooling of your car wont work properly? You can STOP worrying! Maintaining your car is not all that difficult!

Improve the Performance of Your Car Without Increasing Your Expenses

You will save on fuel costs

You can take that family vacation you always dreamed of but were afraid to take because of the car

Your car will last you longer than you thought possible

You wont have to be late for meetings

The air conditioning or heating will not give out when you need it the most

You will save on service and repair costs

It affords you the luxury of a pleasant drive, no matter the distance

The re-sale value of car will be very reasonable

The over all cost of having a car reduces if the car is well maintained

You can take your girlfriend out without worrying about the car breaking down during your date

Your car will feel as good as new for a longer time


Click on the link to get your free Car Care Guide http://www.emech.com.ng/go/car-care-tips-and-advice/


Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

UK's Worst Cars
Austin Allegro
Old Lada
Reliant Robin
Morris Ital

US's Worst Cars
2001 Pontiac Aztek,
1987 Yugo,
1958 Edsel Corsair
2003 Saturn Ion
1974 Ford Mustang


What do you think Nigeria's worst will be?
Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

FT-1 concept is a pure performance, track-focused sports car model created by CALTY Design Research,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNoJWW8jTOs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyecZRkLWIw

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

Used item in very good condition. May have light signs of wear from period of use. Fully operational and functions as intended
16 GB Storage, Wifi, Bluetooth and IOS 8 White

Things come alive on the stunning 9.7-inch widescreen LED Multi-Touch display of the Apple iPad 2. With WiFi support, this 16GB Apple iPad ensures you stay connected to your world all the time. The built-in dual-core A5 chip in this Wi-Fi iPad facilitates high-end gaming, surfing and overall performance. Gaming is at a vivid high with up to nine times the graphics performance on this 16GB Apple iPad. Capture immaculate shots in HD with the 0.7 MP front camera of this Wi-Fi iPad, while the secondary 0.3 MP VGA Camera lets you enjoy FaceTime video calling. For an enhanced movie-watching experience, play all your iPad’s digital content wirelessly on HDTV and speakers using AirPlay. Weighing a mere 601g, with an amazing 10-hour battery life, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR technology and more, this Apple iPad 2 is here to become another extension of you.

Call me on 08098447854 or 08028447854

Do you have any in stock and how much?

With a little research on your vehicle, you can avoid future repair problems. Whether you are mechanically aware or not, you can detect many common vehicle problems simply by using your senses of smell, sound and sight.

TAKE A GOOD LOOK!

Are there any stains or drops of fluid under your vehicle? There may be no problem whatsoever, however you do want to check for wet spots, as this could be a symptom of a serious problem.

What color is the liquid under the car? Yellowish green, blue or orange colors can show an overheated engine or an antifreeze leak. You could have a leaky radiator or a water pump in need of repair. If this is the problem, you need to get to a repair shop immediately.

A dark brown or black oily fluid can show that the engine is leaking oil. A bad seal or gasket could be the cause of the leak. The repair for this problem can be exorbitant, so you will want to seek out a reputable mechanic right away.

A red oily looking spot shows a transmission or power steering fluid leak. Another reason to see your car doctor!

Sometimes the liquid is clear, and this is usually normal condensation from your vehicle's air conditioner. There is no need for concern.

If you see light smoke coming from a wheel - it could be a stuck brake. Call a tow truck.

Smoke coming from any part of the vehicle shows a need for repair.

TAKE A WHIFF!

Sniff around, and you may detect your vehicles problem.

The smell of burned toast can signal an electrical short and burning insulation. Have a mechanic come to look at your car. Do not risk driving it anywhere.

A rotten egg smell usually shows a problem in the catalytic converter. You will need to take the vehicle in for repair as soon as possible.

A thick sharp odor usually shows burning oil. Look under the car to see if there is a leak. There could be a bluish smoke coming from your vehicle, too. This problem needs to be addressed immediately!

The smell of gas after a failed start may mean the engine is flooded. Just wait a couple of minutes and try again. If you keep noticing the gas odor, this could be a sign of a leak in the fuel system - a potentially dangerous problem that needs immediate attention.

Do you notice a sweet odor? This may show a coolant leak. Watch your temperature gauge, warning light and drive to a repair shop. Now, if you see steam emerging from under the hood, stop and pull over. You definitely do not want to keep driving an overheated vehicle. Your engine will most likely be seriously damaged. Call a tow truck.
The basic rule of smell is that if you do notice an unusual odor - get to a mechanic or get one to come to you.
From time to time leave your car audio off and have good listen to your car when its problem free, this will be the baseline to detect something is out of place.
Follow these simple guidelines, keep your eyes, ears and nose open, and you could end saving hundreds of cash in repair!

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

In these days of high petrol prices, it may seem ridiculous to consider ways to increase your car's performance as they are almost always associated with increased fuel consumption. However, there are four ways to increase performance that do not have to negatively impact your petrol mileage. Let's take a closer look at each one.

Reusable Air Filters. Landfills are stuffed with items we use once and then throw out. Auto air filters are one such item and through the life of a car you can go through 6-12 of them with no problem. For approximately three times the price, washable and reusable air filters are a great alternative. When you purchase one it likely will be the last air filter your car will ever need. Reusable air filters enable you to gain slight increases in horsepower and acceleration as well as to impact the environment in a positive way.

Performance Chips. All new cars are operated by a computer chip that tells how much torque and horsepower can be displaced. Performance chips or recalibrations of your current chip can produce significant increases in horsepower and torque for your vehicle.

Performance Exhaust Systems. Cat-back or "catalyst-back exhaust systems" are a great way to free up trapped torque and to unleash horsepower. Keeping all the important emissions parts in place, a cat-back system incorporates large width exhaust pipes and low restriction performance mufflers into your car thereby lowering exhaust back pressure. A side benefit is the really awesome sound emitting from the exhaust system.

Cold Air Intake. A cold air intake is an under the hood mod that helps to reduce the temperature of the air entering the car for the sole purpose of increasing the power of the engine. Side benefits include enhancements to the appearance of the engine bay as this part can be attractive and colorful; the sound the unit makes is also appealing.

Costs for each of these performance enhancements can vary greatly. Shopping online with a trusted wholesaler is one of the best ways to find top quality parts at the lowest possible prices. By doing the work yourself, you can save a bundle and enjoy the fruits of your labor in no time.

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

Good old memories.

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

If you think your car is the best of the bunch, enter your car model and year into this post and we'll collect and compile the data as a poll once we have enough information to start one.

We are conducting a search for Nigeria's most reliable car, from comfort, repair cost, car parts, service cost, how often it breaks down, design, it's extraordinary that we look at invention that has been in the marketplace for some time, much less second-hand product.

If you think your car is the best of the bunch, enter your car model and year into this post and we'll collect and compile the data as a poll once we have enough information to start one.

The 10 most reliable cars according to Warranty Direct UK:
1. Honda Accord - A classy package, well put together and feels more special than the average family car. Superb engines and value for money.
2. Subaru Forester - Not quite an off roader, much more than an estate with a sporty edge, making it the perfect combination. Great all round buy.
3. Mazda MX-5 - Blueprint for the modern roadster with sweet handling and engines to match. Extremely easy to live with.
4. Mitsubishi Carisma - Despite the name, not that interesting to look at or drive, but that's not the point. Here is a no-nonsense hatchback that won't let you down.
5. Toyota Yaris - Superminis don't come better. Bags of room and perky engines. Probably the best small car buy.
6. Honda Civic - Solid build quality and good engines are just part of the appeal, the Civic is one of the most spacious small cars around. Great value.
7. Nissan Almera - A dull package, but that's no reason to dismiss the Almera which is practical and perfect for the smaller family who need a big boot and utter reliability.
8. Honda CR-V - Proof that you don't need an XXXL 4x4. Here is a four-wheel drive estate that is flexible, easy to drive and own.
9. Toyota RAV4 - So few four-wheel drives are fun to drive. This car is suitably sporty, but very practical. Expensive used buy but worth it.
10. Nissan Micra - The driving school favourite. Tough, fairly roomy, but with its light controls is easy to steer around town.

Regards,
The Auto Care Forum Team.
www.autocare.com.ng

List of tire companies
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tire_companies

There is a standard to tire manufacture.

Aged Tyres
There is some evidence to suggest that aged tyres have an increased likelihood of failure due to exposure to the environment. Ideally tyres should be kept in a cool, dry environment out of direct sunlight and away from electric motors or other sources of ozone. If these conditions are not met a tyre may have an increased chance of failure. It is for this reason that Bridgestone recommend including full size spare tyres in the rotation schedule.

How do I tell the age of a tire?
All tyres are produced with a serial Tyre Identification Number (or serial TIN) that shows the date of manufacture of a tyre (See Figure 1&2 below). The last three digits (for tyres made pre 2000) or four digits (for post 2000 tyres) of the serial TIN indicate the week and year that the tyre was made. For example, Figure 1 below shows a tyre made in the 37th week of 1995 and Figure 2 shows a tyre made in the 12th week of 2004. Also a tyre made in the 1990's can be distinguished from a tyre made in the 1980's due to a triangular indentation after the last number which is not present on 1980's tyres.


Figure 1: Serial code for 37th week of 1995

Figure 2: Serial code for 12th week of 2004

How old is too old?
This is a subject of much debate within the tyre industry and no tyre expert can tell exactly how long a tyre will last. However, on the results of experience many tyre companies, including Bridgestone, warrant their tyres against manufacturing and material defects for five years from the date of manufacture. Based on their understanding a number of vehicle manufacturers are now advising against the use of tyres that are more than six years old due to the effects of ageing.

Tyre Ageing Mechanism
There are three main mechanisms of tyre ageing. The first involves rubber becoming more brittle. Sulphur is used to link rubber molecules together during vulcanisation with the application of heat and pressure, giving the rubber its useful elastic properties and strength. As the tyre absorbs energy in the form of light, heat or movement the tyre continues to vulcanise. This ongoing vulcanisation causes the rubber to become stiffer and more brittle.
The second mechanism of tyre ageing is oxidation involving oxygen and ozone from the air compromising the strength and elasticity of the rubber and the integrity of the rubber to steel bond. Basically heat and oxygen cause cross linking between polymer chains (causing the rubber to harden) and scission of polymer chains (leading to reduced elasticity).
Thirdly, breakdown of the rubber to steel-belt bond will occur due to water permeating through a tyre and bonding with the brass plate coating on steel belts. This causes the steel to rubber bond to weaken leading to reduced tyre strength and reduced heat resistance. If compressed air used for inflation is not completely dry, tyre strength will be affected over time. Even unused tyres will become more brittle, weaker and less elastic with exposure to water, air, heat and sunlight.

Warning signs
Regardless of their age tyres should be replaced if they show significant crazing or cracking in the tread grooves or sidewall (Figure 3&4) and or bulging of the tread face or sidewall. All tyres, especially unused spare tyres, should be inspected periodically to determine their suitability for service. If there is any question about a tyre's suitability please consult your local Tyre Centre expert.

Figure 3: Sidewall cracking due to environmental exposure to oxygen, heat and sunlight.

Figure 4: Tread cracking due to environmental exposure to oxygen, heat and sunlight.


Grab a free useful tyre ebook about tires at http://forms.aweber.com/form/81/882689081.htm


Source:
http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/passenger/care/age.aspx
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Aged Tyres
There is some evidence to suggest that aged tyres have an increased likelihood of failure due to exposure to the environment. Ideally tyres should be kept in a cool, dry environment out of direct sunlight and away from electric motors or other sources of ozone. If these conditions are not met a tyre may have an increased chance of failure. It is for this reason that Bridgestone recommend including full size spare tyres in the rotation schedule.

How do I tell the age of a tire?
All tyres are produced with a serial Tyre Identification Number (or serial TIN) that shows the date of manufacture of a tyre (See Figure 1&2 below). The last three digits (for tyres made pre 2000) or four digits (for post 2000 tyres) of the serial TIN indicate the week and year that the tyre was made. For example, Figure 1 below shows a tyre made in the 37th week of 1995 and Figure 2 shows a tyre made in the 12th week of 2004. Also a tyre made in the 1990's can be distinguished from a tyre made in the 1980's due to a triangular indentation after the last number which is not present on 1980's tyres.


Figure 1: Serial code for 37th week of 1995

Figure 2: Serial code for 12th week of 2004

How old is too old?
This is a subject of much debate within the tyre industry and no tyre expert can tell exactly how long a tyre will last. However, on the results of experience many tyre companies, including Bridgestone, warrant their tyres against manufacturing and material defects for five years from the date of manufacture. Based on their understanding a number of vehicle manufacturers are now advising against the use of tyres that are more than six years old due to the effects of ageing.

Tyre Ageing Mechanism
There are three main mechanisms of tyre ageing. The first involves rubber becoming more brittle. Sulphur is used to link rubber molecules together during vulcanisation with the application of heat and pressure, giving the rubber its useful elastic properties and strength. As the tyre absorbs energy in the form of light, heat or movement the tyre continues to vulcanise. This ongoing vulcanisation causes the rubber to become stiffer and more brittle.
The second mechanism of tyre ageing is oxidation involving oxygen and ozone from the air compromising the strength and elasticity of the rubber and the integrity of the rubber to steel bond. Basically heat and oxygen cause cross linking between polymer chains (causing the rubber to harden) and scission of polymer chains (leading to reduced elasticity).
Thirdly, breakdown of the rubber to steel-belt bond will occur due to water permeating through a tyre and bonding with the brass plate coating on steel belts. This causes the steel to rubber bond to weaken leading to reduced tyre strength and reduced heat resistance. If compressed air used for inflation is not completely dry, tyre strength will be affected over time. Even unused tyres will become more brittle, weaker and less elastic with exposure to water, air, heat and sunlight.

Warning signs
Regardless of their age tyres should be replaced if they show significant crazing or cracking in the tread grooves or sidewall (Figure 3&4) and or bulging of the tread face or sidewall. All tyres, especially unused spare tyres, should be inspected periodically to determine their suitability for service. If there is any question about a tyre's suitability please consult your local Tyre Centre expert.

Figure 3: Sidewall cracking due to environmental exposure to oxygen, heat and sunlight.

Figure 4: Tread cracking due to environmental exposure to oxygen, heat and sunlight.


Grab a free useful tyre ebook about tires at http://forms.aweber.com/form/81/882689081.htm


Source:
http://www.bridgestone.com.au/tyres/passenger/care/age.aspx

The UK's most economical cars 2015

1. Peugeot 308 Blue HDi - 91.1mpg
2. Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi - 88.3mpg
3. Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion - 88.3mpg
4. Kia Rio 1.1 CRDi - 88.3mpg
5. Renault Clio 1.5 dCi - 88.3mpg
6. Skoda Octavia Greenline - 88.3mpg
7. Ford Fiesta Econetic - 85.6mpg
8. SEAT Leon Ecomotive - 85.6mpg

Most economical cars: things to consider

Diesel engines are not suitable for short trips, but work best for motorway travel - and small petrol engines are the opposite, working well in the city and getting noisy on faster roads. Also, diesel cars are usually more expensive than their petrol equivalents and are more costly to fill up. So if you don't cover long distances, a petrol car could make more financial sense.

You need to think carefully about which car will suit your needs best before you make a decision, rather than thinking purely about the fuel economy.

Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/62048/most-economical-cars#ixzz3J8xxEQMR

The major distinction between diesel and petrol lies in the type of ignition. While petrol engines operate on spark ignition, diesel engines employ compression ignition for igniting the fuel. With compression, the air is drawn into the engine and subjected to high compression that heats it up. The result is a very high temperature in the engine, much high than that of petrol engines.
In diesel engines, air and fuel are both infused into the engine at different stages, as opposed to petrol where a mixture of air and petrol are introduced. The fuel is injected into the diesel using an injector where in a petrol engine, a carburetor is used for this very purpose.
With petrol engines, fuel and air are sent into the engine at the same time, then compressed. The air and fuel mixture will limit fuel compression, and thereby hence the overall efficiency. Diesel engines only compress air, and the resulting ratio can be much higher.

Advantages
Diesel engines are much more efficient and preferable as compared to petrol engines due to the
following reasons:
1. Diesel engines have overcome the several disadvantages of earlier models that featured higher noise and maintenance costs. Now, they are quiet and require less regular maintenance when compared with petrol engines of a similar size.
2. Diesel engines are more rugged and reliable.
3. There is no sparking at all as the fuel ignites. The absence of spark plugs or spark wires also helps to lower maintenance cost.
4. Diesels get great mileage. They typically deliver 25 to 30 percent better fuel economy than similarly performing petrol engines. Diesels also can deliver as much or more fuel economy than traditional petrol-electric hybrids, depending on the models involved and whatever rapidly developing automotive technology achieves.
5. Petrol burns hotter than diesel, and therefore they have a shorter life span when they are compared with diesel engines.
6. Diesel engines are built more ruggedly to withstand the rigors of higher compression. Consequently, they usually go much longer than petrol-powered vehicles before they require major repairs. Mercedes-Benz holds the longevity record with several vehicles clocking more than 900,000 miles on their original engines!, but longevity and dependability like that can sure help with trade-in and resale values.
Diesel technology is constantly being improved. Pressure to produce low-emission diesel engines for passenger vehicles, trucks, buses, and farm and construction equipment has resulted not only in low-sulfur diesel fuels but also specialized catalytic converters, advanced filters, and other devices to cut down or destroy toxic emissions.

We provide free useful tips fortnightly on repairing and maintaining your automotive. See more at http://www.emech.com.ng

One of the biggest moments in many people’s lives is driving off in their brand-spanking-new automobile. It’s an exhilarating feeling. It’s also a big moment because in that very instant, that brand-spanking-new car loses a big chunk of its value—the difference between the retail price you paid and the car’s wholesale value. That’s typically thousands gone in an instant.

That’s why some car buyers choose to shop around for a used car. You save yourself that steep initial drop-off in value. More importantly, you get a car that runs just as well, is just as dependable, and looks and feels as good as that new car—that is, if you play your cards right.

For if there is one pitfall of buying a used car, it’s the risk of buying a piece of scrap, a death trap—call it what you want, you get the point: the wrong car. Used car sellers, after all, have nearly as bad a reputation, if not worse, than lawyers do. This holds true for individual people selling their cars through newspapers, Web auctions and classified sites, or with the old-fashioned signs in their car windows. The saying, “Buyer Beware,” nowhere has more meaning than with cars.

The opposite to that, of course, is that there are some real steals out there in used cars. We’re talking about quality vehicles that will perform beyond your expectations at a low price. Here’s how to find these perfect used vehicles, and avoid the top scams that used car sellers everywhere try to pull on you. Also beware it is estimated 250,000 to 500,000 cars could have been damaged during hurricane Katrina.

1. Get a second opinion for the excitement. Used car sellers will bombard you with every adjective under the book to sell you on a car—sporty, thrifty, fast, and etc. Don’t take their word for it. Instead, find someone you know, whether a neighbour, a colleague, a family member, or a friend, who owns the same make and model of the vehicle, and ask them for their opinion.

2. Do a background check. One of the most unethical, but legal, things someone can do to you is sell you a used car that’s been in a flood (and sort of repaired), or one that’s had 10 previous owners (none of whom repaired it). To be sure you don’t fall victim to this, track down a history report, including a clearance check on the vehicle title. You can even get some of this information from the seller, simply by asking why they are selling it. You’d be surprised what beans people may spill.

3. Examine for past damage. Used car sellers may also try to flog a vehicle that was wrecked in a major accident. It’s amazing what car body experts can do to repair a car’s exterior. So don’t go by the outer appearances of a vehicle. Before you buy it, make sure that it does not have serious damage to its frame, which it would have if it was involved in a crash.

4. Call up your trusted mechanic. Used car sellers, especially the big lots, will say they put their used cars through a “100 point inspection,” or something like that. Once again, a second opinion is in order. Get this one from your own mechanic. He’ll be able to tell how good a shape the car actually is in. Also be sure to ask him or her how often the car had been serviced. A good mechanic can even gauge that.

5. Research for recalls. Needless to say, a used car dealer may sell you a car that’s actually under recall in his mad rush to get the car off his lot. So be sure to call the car manufacturer, or visit their Web site, to see if the vehicle has any active recalls.

6. Avoid the leftover lemon. Along with recalled vehicles, sellers may even perpetrate something much worse on you—sell you a lemon. (By definition, a lemon is a car that’s still under warranty, which has such major problems that, warranty or not, it still cannot be fixed in a reasonable way.) The best way to avoid this is to research in Consumer Reports or the various automobile magazines, which all have yearly reviews of every make and model on the market. They’ll tell you whether a kind of car is known for being a lemon and prone to breakdowns.

7. See through the old paint and bait. Along with performing their “100 point inspection,” car sellers may shine and wax a used car—even repaint it—to hide dents, dings, and rust spots. A keen eye, though, can see right through this.

8. Take the test drive. Once you’ve done all your research, homework, extra credit, and everything else called for in the first seven steps, then comes the fun—the test drive. Drive the car for as long as its owner or dealer will allow you. Then you’ll get a better feel for how the vehicle handles, accelerates, brakes, and otherwise suits your tastes (or doesn’t).

9. Be wary of the pushy seller. At any stage of the game—from the moment you first talk to the seller to the test drive—be careful if the seller gets pushy. Any dealer or seller who is in a rush to move a vehicle should set off bells and whistles. Why the rush? Are they hiding something? In some cases the seller may just be excited to sell you the car—and actually happy for you—but in many other cases, they may be up to something. Better be safe than sorry.

Follow these simple steps to avoid the scams and pitfalls of used car deals, and you could get the car of your dreams—for far less than you’d pay if it was brand-new. Plus, you get that same high when you drive your new used car home, without losing thousands of cash.

We provide free useful tips fortnightly on repairing and maintaining your automotive. See more at http://www.emech.com.ng

If you feel I've missed out a thing or two please add your experience.