toyota rav4 suv

Top 5 Best SUVs

The new crossovers and SUVs in the market are loved by many. SUVs are preferred because of their versatile use, such as off-road adventures, family use, worksite use, etc. The models and sizes keep changing; each brand is competing to upgrade and install new features. Each vehicle is efficient, reliable, and comfortable but has its pros and cons. The following are the best ranked top 5 SUVs.

Toyota Rav4

Toyota RAV4 is by far the best selling SUV in the market with a friendly budget. The new Toyota RAV4 design gives it a new and classic look. The hybrid should be your choice if you’re all about fuel economy. The 2020 model is more comfortable and has perfect handling. The LE and Limited model is basic but has amazing luxurious features.

Honda Cr-V

Honda CR-V is a well designed and classic vehicle making it one of the brand’s top-selling car. It offers a large and efficient cargo space. It has two fuel powerful powertrains that include a hybrid, making it compete with RAV4. It has the best crash-testing ratings, making it a family-friendly car. Honda CR-V is fitted with features that offer comfort and luxury.

honda crv

Mazda Cx-9

Mazda CX-9 is a mid-size crossover SUV. It is a luxurious family SUV that is comfortable. It offers passenger comfort and advanced safety technology. It’s driving performance is excellent and has a good design. It’s interior finishing shows qualify craftsmanship. Mazda CX-9 has a stop and function that helps maintain a safe distance from the car ahead by adjusting the vehicle speed automatically.

Hyundai Kona

It is one of the best subcompact SUVs in the market. It has a pair of four-cylinder engines. The best is the turbocharged 1.6 liter that offers good fuel consumption and acceleration.

Buyers get to choose between two petrol engines and all-wheel drivetrains. The cargo and passenger space is more comfortable and adequate. The Hyundai Kona rides smoothly and has composed handling. It is available in elite, active, and highlander trim levels.

BMW X1

It is considered as a small sub-compact luxury SUV but very efficient and practical. Its design is simple but appealing. It is spacious for a small SUV and can comfortably accommodate four passengers leaving a spare room for cargo.

The BMW X1 has a four-cylinder turbocharged engine that has a lot of power. Its fuel economy has a good rating. It’s a high-quality finish, and the material gives a classic and luxurious feel. It is fitted with the latest technology and safety systems.

Why Buy a Used Car

Why Buy a Used Car

Many individuals usually connote buying a second-hand vehicle as having an insufficient budget. But that is not exactly true. It may mean more about spending your money wisely.

Next to your home, your car must be the biggest expenditure you ever had. It is logical because of its important functions. Yes. Functions – and a used car can function as a brand new car does.

You Will Have Much Savings.

carYou will be able to save thousands of your money when buying a used car, not only because it has a lower price tag, but it will also accrue lesser depreciation in the coming years. Generally, brand new cars depreciate more in their first years. In fact, they start their depreciation the moment you drive them. A used car has already passed through that period.

In some states, buying a new car will require you to pay state sales tax. When you are residing in Tennessee, do not be surprised to see your state sales tax because it is the highest in the country. With used cars, you pay lesser and can be free in some states.

Insurance rates and registration fees also make a difference. Insurance rates are lower for used cars. The registration fee is determined by the value and model year of your vehicle. It is highest during the first year of registration and decreases over the years. This means you will be paying less registration fees for a used car.

You Will Have a Variety of Choices

Choosing among used cars for sale may be overwhelming because there are so many choices to select from. You may be able to find classic models to the newest brands. You will surely find the model that will satisfy your needs and preferences.

More Straightforward Transaction

car

When buying brand new cars, you may need to deal with dealers anymore, who are always looking for means to add on cost for their additional gain. Buying new cars is more straightforward, so there will be no hidden fees. When the necessary documents are prepared, you can drive your car home already.

Although you can enjoy all these advantages, it pays if you buy a used car from a reputable car store. It pays if you check on the vehicle of your choice before a final decision is made. Ask professional help to check on it for a second opinion.

hunting truck

Preparing Your Truck for a Hunting Trip

Every hunting season, numerous individuals get their vehicles ready for the expedition. However, when you plan to take out your truck for the trip, there are several things you have to consider. Preparing your vehicle for the hunting journey and checking if everything is functional helps you avoid common problems. To ensure your truck is ready for the adventure, here are some tips you can follow.

Clean and Organize Your Truck

The first call to action is getting your truck in top condition, both performance-wise and aesthetically. Once your vehicle is clean, ensure that everything you want to carry is organized properly. Another importance of cleaning your car is to help create space for all your hunting gear.

Fit a Tonneau Cover

hunting truck
Some people see tonneau covers as features only meant to improve the aesthetic appeal of a truck. Nonetheless, these covers are among the most beneficial features to fit in any pickup truck. The cover helps keep your items safe from theft while on transit or destruction from extreme weather conditions. Having a tonneau cover helps keep your hunting items safe, avoiding losses through theft or damage.

Get a Grille Guard

To protect your car while on your trip, consider installing a grille guard. This feature helps your vehicle get more robust to handle the wilderness naturally. A grille guard keeps the vehicle safe from debris, tough brush, and likely impact. They are affordable and very efficient for hunting trips.

Carry a Utility Winch


People won’t utilize truck utility winches in every hunting venture. Nonetheless, when it’s time to put them to use, they prove to be real lifesavers. The cost of getting a truck utility winch differs depending on the features and capabilities. The best thing about this tool is that it’s easily portable and doesn’t use up a lot of space since it can fit in a toolbox.

Have an Emergency Kit

It’s always a good idea to stay ready for any outcome while in the wild. This is one of the many reasons it’s advisable to have a first-aid or emergency kit in your vehicle at all times. To avoid accidents while hunting at night, ensure that you install off-road work lights to enhance your visibility in the wild.

Make sure to have a mechanic vet the condition of your truck before deciding to use it on your next hunting trip. The experience is only exciting when everything goes the way you plan it in your mind.

bird poop on car

Ways of Removing Bird Poop from Your Car

Bird poop is one of the main causes of car paint damage. Bird droppings have a high uric acid content that corrodes the exterior of cars. Dried bird poop has a pH of about three and peels away bleach paint and clearcoats, leaving funny etchings on the car even after washing. If you cannot get a bird poop remover for cars, below are some of the ways to clean bird poop to prevent this damage.

Baking Soda

One of the most common solutions to bird poop on cars is baking soda. A mixture of dish soap, baking soda, and hot water can be used to remove bird poop by spraying from a spray bottle on the dropping. You then leave it for ten minutes to soak, and the droppings will be cleared. Rinse repeated with a hose to get your car back in good condition.person cleaning car

Seltzer Water

Using a microfiber cloth and seltzer water is another way of easily eliminating semi-fresh bird poop from your car. This combination from seltzer water helps in breaking down the natural acidic qualities of the poop. Splash seltzer water on the droppings and let it rest for a short while, then wipe it away with the microfiber. You, however, need to note that sugary or carbonated sodas cannot be used as an alternative since they will leave behind sticky residue all over the car.

Car Detailing Spray

The best way of dealing with etched-in bird poop is by using a cleaner designed specifically to clean etched-in bird poop. You can hit two birds with one stone by cleaning your car using detailing spray. Put some spritzes of the spray on the droppings to entirely dissolve the stain, then using a damp cloth, clean the area before rinsing with a hose. Such products can restore coatings when thoroughly polished with a clay bar. Ask any car dealer in your area for recommendations on quality auto detailing spray.spraying car with hose

WD-40

Multipurpose WD-40 spray can also be used in cleaning off bird poop. It loosens the dry droppings and enables you to remove the stains with just a wipe or rinse from a hose. In case there are some stubborn markings still remaining, reapply the WD-40 and repeat the process until your car is well cleaned.

When it comes to dealing with bird poop on your car, these are some of the ways you can do away with the droppings. It is important to ensure you remove the droppings as early as possible since it is easier to remove them while they are still fresh.

tow truck

Reasons to Hire a Towing Service

There are several challenges you may experience when using your vehicle. Breakdowns are quite common. They can happen unexpectedly in the middle of nowhere. Getting to the nearest garage may prove to be very hectic. You should ring a tow truck that will help get your vehicle to the nearest service station.

Before commencing a long trip, you should always ensure you have the contacts of towing services situated in various areas you will be passing through. This will ensure you reach out to any of them easily in case of a breakdown. There are a few things that can guide you in choosing the best tow truck service. One of the things you should do to identify the best is researching online. Go through several online platforms that will help you determine the best tow truck service within a specific location.

It would help if youtowing company also consider their pricing. This may vary depending on your location and the distance to be towed. Compare how much various companies are charging to identify the best. You should consider some of the extra services they offer. There are several reasons why you should hire a tow truck service in case of a breakdown. They include:

Traffic Clearance

emergency towing serviceThis is one of the benefits you are likely to experience when you hire a tow truck service. Breakdowns and car accidents may cause a huge traffic pile up. This is something you may have a difficult time controlling, especially if you are among the victims. Most towing companies are well experienced to clear vehicles involved in an accident and also regulate traffic.

Mechanical Solutions

At times, you don’t have to tow your vehicle to a garage because towing companies can offer mechanical solutions for some of the challenges you are experiencing. They will come with the right tools and other items required to fix the damage you are experiencing. Most of them will come with a team of mechanics to fix the mess. You can get this kind of help when you hire one.

Fast Response

towing serviceThe other good thing about towing companies is that they offer an emergency response. They will arrive at the breakdown or accident scene within a short period and offer the kind of solution you need. This is better than waiting. Make sure you have the contacts of a tow truck service to have an easy time when you need their services.

vintage car

Reasons You Should Rent a Car in Crete

When visiting the Greek island of Crete, you need to consider an excellent mode of transportation when you go sightseeing. Yes, there are public vehicles.

Car rentals are very popular and here are good reasons you should rent one from a reputable company when visiting Crete:

It Is More Efficient

Major cities and towns in Greece have public buses as well as taxis. Although taking a bus is probably the cheapest way to get around, what if your destination is out of route? Whereas if you rent a vehicle, you can drive down to anywhere you want to go, be it in the city or far-flung villages. Take note that some of the most beautiful sceneries in the said place are not in the city. So, yes, having your own vehicle to utilize is more efficient.

It Is More Comfortable

car interiorWithout a doubt, rental cars are way more comfortable than buses, trains, or even taxis. The companies that rent them out take good care of their units to provide more comfort to their clients as they enjoy their vacation on the island.

Most vehicles have excellent AC, so you won’t have to worry about the sun’s scourging heat. The seats are also made with high-quality materials. And when it comes to entertainment, the automobiles have a sound system, radio, and even a monitor in which your passengers can watch a movie on, especially if you are traveling long-distance.

There Are Lots of Options

Whether you are traveling alone, with your significant other, or even with the whole family and your closest friends, a car rental company can provide you with a suitable vehicle, something that can accommodate all of you. With this, you have lots of options. You can go for the newest models or even hybrid cars if you are aiming to travel in luxury. You can also rent a simple one if you wish to.

The bottom line is, you have endless options when talking about the models.

You’ll Get to Save Time

Renting a car in Crete is like having your own vehicle since it gives you the freedom to go to any place that you want to see on the island. This also lets you save time, unlike public transportation, wherein you have to wait for the schedule. With a rental car, you can get on top of your daily itinerary since you are in control of your time.

car engine

Everyday Engines Problems that Car Owners Have to Deal With

The engine is the heart of the operations of any vehicle. So, the last thing any car owner wishes for is to have a car that is often plagued by engine problems. The key to avoiding the inconveniences that come with an engine that is susceptible to engine problems is to invest in maintenance. While some engine issues do not interfere with the overall functioning of your car. However, some can leave your vehicle grounded for a long time.

The key to ensuring that your car’s engine is in top shape is to be on the lookout for common symptoms shared on this site and have the problem fixed by an expert mechanic. That said, here are some common engine problems that every car owners have to deal with at some point.

Engine Won’t Start

It is highly likely that you have experienced this problem. There are many reasons why engines fail to start. It could be that the battery is dead, or there is an issue with the ignition. Ideally, battery issues lead to the failed start, the car only makes a clicking sound, but it does not start. It could be that the battery is discharged or an issue with cable connections. On the other hand, ignition issues could be caused by a faulty fuel pump, blocked fuel filter, or a damaged starter motor relay.engine hose

Overheating

Overheating is quite common. Low coolant levels mostly cause this car problem. In other instances, overheating can be because of a burnt radiator, loose or broken plugs, leaking coolant system, malfunctioning engine thermostat, or clogged hoses. Irrespective of the cause, repeated overheating can lead to severe engine damages.

Stalling

There are instances when you might driving only for the car to stop suddenly. Stalling can be a significant safety hazard, especially when it happens in the middle of a busy highway. Issues in the fuel line, spark plugs, or fuel filter mostly cause this engine problem. However, stalling problems are not always engine related. Therefore, it best that you have your vehicle examined and fixed by a professional mechanic.

Noises

Most engine problems give warnings through sounds. As such, you should pay close attention to any weird noises coming from the engine. Most of these noises are indicative of fitting issues. Noises can also be traced to a weak starter, worn out timing belts, or other serious engine problems.

caravan

Tips for Choosing the Right Caravan Awning

It is vital to understand that a caravan awning enables you to conduct daily activities such as entertaining, eating, cooking, and sleeping outdoors. They are the perfect tools that can help you to get some fresh air out of the direct sunlight. Caravan awnings can be used in different ways, including protecting your car from direct sunlight. If you own a car, this is the right tool that you need to have. Since there are different types of caravan awnings, make sure that you visit Parts Express to know the available models and different available caravan parts. Here are the guidelines on finding the right awning for your caravan.

Consider the Size of Your Awning

Another component that you need to consider in this process is the size of the awning that you need for your caravan. Make sure that you know the vital measurements such as the height and length of the awning rail. For you to calculate the exact distance of your awning, ensure that the caravan is level and the thread that you use should reach the ground on both sides. By considering this concept, you will have the right measurements.

Types of Caravan Awnings

awningBefore you figure out your specific awning needs, it is crucial to be aware of the foremost common kinds of awnings currently on the market. It is vital to note that there are different models of caravan awnings that can suit your needs. But once you identify your requirement, it will be a little bit easier for you to choose the right type of awning for your caravan. In doing this, you will know the one that will match your needs.

Awning Color

The color of the awning that you intend to choose is also another vital factor that you need to consider. You should always remember that light colors will reflect more heat, unlike the dark color. If you want to purchase one for your vehicle, this means that you will opt for a bright color. But in a situation where you need one to serve as an extra bedroom, ensure that you choose a darker shade.

Consider the Material

For most individuals who have researched more on these tools, cotton, polyester, and Acrylic tend to be the right choice. For instance, Acrylic is mostly considered to be superior because it does not fade, rot, or shrink. In other words, when you need the right caravan awning, make sure that you choose a quality material.

car rental

Identifying the Right Car Rental Service

Renting a vehicle is an ideal option for those who don’t own one but want to move to different places. There are times you may wish to travel from one place to another in a car. Some errands like supplying certain items require a vehicle. You can hire a car if you don’t own one. There are so many car rental services you will come across out there where you can get a car of your choice.

The renting process is quite easy because you are only required to sign an agreement and make your payment to be given a car of your choice.

This agreement is meant to guidecar rental you on different things like how you should use the rented car and what may be required of you if the vehicle is damaged in an accident or under your custody. It is best you look for a good car rental service to get the best vehicle and have an easy time throughout the process. Here is what to consider when renting one.

Rates

The amount you are required to pay when renting a car is one of the things to consider. This may vary in different rental services and also according to various factors. The model of the vehicle you plan to rent is one of the factors that will determine the fees. You will also be charged depending on the seating capacity of the car you are renting. Period of use matters a lot in most car rentals. The more time you intend to use a particular vehicle, the more you will be required to pay. You can compare rates between different companies to settle for one that is charging reasonably.

Available Cars

You should look at the vehicles available in a particular car rental service. Make sure they have one that can meet all your requirements of what you intend to do with the car. Choosing a car rental service with a variety of vehicles is the best option.

Referrals

Friends or other people whorented car have rented a car at one time or the other can recommend you to the best car rental service. You can engage them to find out which vehicle rental service is the best and the different things that make them stand out. This will help you pick the best.