With so many things to look out for and so many ways to take care of your car, the question now is where do you start and what do you do at certain points in time. With a car maintenance schedule, you’ll make sure that every part of your car is looked after and you’ll know exactly which part to have checked up at specific times.

1. The first thing you have to check off the list of car maintenance is car wash. This is the simplest and also the cheapest car job you can do in the way of maintenance. You can do it yourself on your free days or you can go to a car wash center. You’ll only be paying somewhere $5 to $10 per washing.
2. The next items to take care of with car maintenance happen every week or every time to you go to the gas station to refuel. Check your car fluid levels and fluids cover for oil, coolant, wiper fluid and power steering fluid. If they need to be replaced, go ahead and replace them. This will help with your goal of increasing the life of your car and it also helps preserve your car engine’s character. Don’t forget to use quality branded engine oil. One that’s synthetic oil treated and has additives will help control the friction in your engine. Again, check car fluid levels when you go for a gas fill up. You should also check car fluid levels before you go on a long trip. It will cost you somewhere between $50 and $120 to get an oil change.
3. You also have to check your tire condition, pressure and alignment while you’re at the gas station for a fill up. When your tires are properly inflated, it will help you with regard to fuel economy, it improves it. Alignment helps improve gas mileage for your car and this will only cost you about $60.
4. When your car mileage hits 3,000, or after three months, it’s time to change engine oil and filter. With air and fuel filters, you’re keeping things in check so that no harm is caused to your car engine. This will cost about $10 to $15 for air filters. You have to check hoses for any bulging or leaking and you also have to check the wiper blades.For the tires, tread depth has to be looked into too. Battery terminals as well as the cables should be checked for corrosion. While the battery is the most important part of a car, it can be the most ignored part. If you take care of the battery, paying about $50 to $120 for its care, you’ll have a longer battery life.
5. After six months have passed or every time you rake up 7,500 more miles on your mileage, it’s time for you to get a check up on your service battery, the rotation and balance of your tires and the wear of your brake pad. Again, car for your battery will increase its life and it will only cost you $50 to $120 to look into the condition of your batteries. Your brake pad can be at the mercy of your foot and it needs to be replaced every six months.You ensure a smoother ride when you have your tires checked for rotation and balance and this will cost you $60 and for the suspension work on your car as it relates to alignment, it will be worth $60 to $100. If the suspension system needs to be replaced you need to shell out $1000 to $2000 or more if you drive a luxury car.
6. Every year or every 15,000 miles, car maintenance consists of flushing and filling transmission fluid and changing the transmission filter. You also have to replace the air and fuel filters at this time. PCV and breather elements need to be replaced as well as the carbon canister filter. Again, in maintaining the integrity of your car’s filters will amount to $10 to $15 for the air filters and fuel filter change will be worth about $25.This is also the time to lubricate the parking brake, locks, hinges and doors of your car. Go ahead and check your car’s lignment as well as the CV joint boots of your car.
7. After two years or with every 30,000 miles listed on your mileage counter, your radiator coolant must be flushed and replaced. Brake fluid should also be flushed and refilled. The parts of your car like the distributor cap, wires, rotor, spark plugs, differential/transfer case fluid and the cabin air filter have to be replaced as well. Finally, for the two year car maintenance, you have to inspect the exhaust system of your car.The small parts will be fairly priced and inspection can also be done for you by your mechanic for a small amount.
8. When four years have passed or with every 60,000 miles added to your mileage counter, the power steering fluid of your car has to be flushed and refilled. The timing belt or chain also has to be replaced. If your car has a long warranty, you can get the parts you need replaced for a discount and you can get labor charges on your car waived.

It takes a little bit of effort to making sure your car is in top condition. With the little things you do, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of money from having to get your car repaired or having to buy a new car because you’ll be lengthening your car’s life using the car maintenance schedule. Little attentions here and there go a long way.

How does it look?

A test drive of the CTS coupe can bring out its superiority on tarmac. This is because it is a high performance vehicle; fulfilling the desires of speed lovers. The design appears to be aggressive and gives any driver the need for speed before sitting behind the wheel. The standard coupe is not the same as the other supercharged versions but still delivers.   The angles in this version is not all that but the exterior still boasts of a great design with hard edges. The car has a wedge shape that is enhanced by perpendicular and parallel lines combined with open plains and tight angles. The shape starts at the bottom grille of the front fascia and extends to the back. The headlamps are designed in an irregular shape which sets the width of the vehicle. Moving from the headlamps backwards it’s difficult to avoid noticing the 19-inch allow wheels having seven well crafted spokes.

The main reason why everyone tends to move their eyes toward the back is because the shape demands it. There is no interruption at any point because the coupe version has C6 corvette-style doors in place of the more traditional handle doors. At the back there is a centered dual exhaust outlet with a vertical line that runs from the top and divides the two outlets. The car leans towards its anticipation owing to the raise rear end.

The Cadillac CTS Coupe Interior

The cabin looks like a combination of sporty and luxurious touches but the materials used tend to say otherwise. Contrary to other dash boards in other cars, the dash in the 2011 CTS does not have padding beneath the leather and consequently feels hard as a rock. There is a metallic colored plastic surrounding the center stack which is a bit complex thanks to the buttons that are not easy to read especially if you pass a quick glance.

The base price of the coupe is set at $38,165 with a premium version that can be acquired for $51,030 because of the additional special features such as headlamps with high intensity discharge, heated and cooled front seats that can be power adjusted in ten different ways, an improved Bose sound system, ambient lighting in the interior, Bluetooth, heated steering wheel and a navigation system with a touch screen with a camera for the rear view displays.

The down side is that the base price rises from the $38,165 mark to a staggering $47,010. This can hit the $50,000 mark as a result of purchasing the extras such as the steering wheel with shift controls, the summer tire performance with the 19 inch alloys, a brake upgrade and other additional charges.

The fact that the CTS coupe comes in two doors tells a lot about what type of a car it is. This is probably the type of car that is meant for two people and the rear seats should be use to carry small items and not people. The front is comfortable and luxurious but complaining about lack of ample space in the back is not reasonable for a two door coupe. It would be like complaining of too much space in a minivan.

The most important part of driving is the windscreen, which allows you to see where you are going. Well, this is taken care of in the 2011 Cadillac CTS coupe thanks to the massive slab of glass used. Trying to see what is at the sides can be tricky but the coupe has got all this covered with the use of a rear view camera display that makes reversing the car child’s play, though you need to pay more attention when switching lanes. There is a touch screen display on top of the center stack that is used for interfacing with the infotainment system and also used for navigation. The display at its normal position in the dash shows basic information about the audio system but can rise and display more functions. For safety reasons, it is advisable to keep the screen hidden but it automatically deploys every time the car is being reversed to display the rear view.

Does it stop?

The braking system can seem to be a bit tricky and if you are not yet used to it you will find the connection between the braking action and the pedal application not communicating effectively. With time it is easy to get used to the process and you won’t have to be forced towards the safety belt every time you brake. The aerodynamic styling used in making the CTS puts it at a better performance position compared to coupes from other manufacturers. German manufacturers have the say when it comes to cabin quality and though the Cadillac’s interior is comfortable it can not compete with the qualities that the BMW, Audi or Benz possess. However, Cadillac is superior when it comes to the engine performance and fuel consumption. Every aspect of Cadillac’s 2011 CTS coupe contributes to the performance and beauty of this machine.

Looking at the coupe, you can classify it in a sports and luxury category, but after driving it for a while you will notice that though the exterior is outstanding and the interior super
cool, the luxury part is over shadowed by the sporty appearance and feel. The 2011 CTS coupe has earned Cadillac a Masters degree in science and art used in the motor industry.  The 2011 CTS coupe is the ultimate sports machine with an element of luxury.

So what are the specs?

The CTS coupe comes with Cadillac’s direct injected V6 putting up 304 horsepower.

Upgrading the Cadillac’s CTS-V Coupe will bring you up to 556 hp as a result of a supercharged V8. Plus, you’ll be upgrading to 19 inch wheels and some amazing sport seats.

The car can rocket from 0 to 62.14 mph or 100 km/h in about four and a half seconds with a top speed of 155.34 mph or 250 km/h. The car is compact and weighs about 3,472.28 or 1,575 kilograms and the fuel consumption is an amazing 26 mpg and the emission of carbon dioxide is at 341.18 g/mile or 212 g CO2/km. All this is possible by the technology used in the regenerative system, which is meant to recover some energy during the car’s decelerations.

The RS3′s Engine

The 2011 Audi RS3 has a 2.5-liter engine that will surely thrill the passengers because it has a strong pulling power and the 6,800-rpm. The Audi engine’s growling  and roaring soundtrack combined with the signature 5-cylinder firing order creates a strength feeling in the car and gives the driver gobs of power on the road. There is a flap in the exhaust system that is controlled by the sport button, also used in varying engine response, and is used to further intensify the sound.

The 5-cylinder engines have a history in Audi. It was used to edge out the existing competition in race cars in the 80s. The first RS model, 94, had one of these engine types. The engine now is redefined and has earned the top position in engines ranked by a panel of automotive journalists. This means that the engine is created to have high performance and the general parameters used in it will yield great elasticity and excellent acceleration values.

At just about 403 pounds and 19.29 inches the Audi RS3′s 5-cylinder unit is super compact. The vermicular-graphite cast iron use in making the crankcase is a light weight but strong material that contributes a lot in the overall light weight of the unit. In fact, this material has been used in gasoline engines for the first time by Audi. The block loadability is further enhanced by the reinforcement’s which are perfectly placed. The light weight design is meant to keep the weight of the Audi RS3 in check so that it can pay off when it comes to axle load distribution which translates to an excellent and ultimate car handling.

What about boost?

The 2011 Audi RS3 has a turbocharger that is responsible for up to a 1.2 bar pressure boost while the intercooler achieves a cool 80% efficiency. Just like other Audi gasoline turbo engines, the RS3’s unit combines the turbo charging with FSI direct injection system. The combination of the two technologies create high compression ratio (about 10:1) and consequently raise the efficiency ratio. The air is mixed as it is flowing in by the flaps positioned and the intake tract. The mixture formation is further enhanced by the two adjustable (by 42 degrees – crankshaft rotation) camshafts.

Audi RS3′s Transmission

The S Tronic, seven-speed, transmits power straight from the 5-cylinder engine through three shafts. Two of these are output shafts while the other one is the drive shaft. The car has two transmission structures since it is a dual-clutch transmission. This results in a smooth shifting process which takes a very short time during the clutch switch. The two clutches make sure that there is no power interruption during the shifting process. The seventh gear, being very tall, is the ultimate way of saving on fuel consumption.

There is a choice of two automatic modes and a manual mode. The gear shift can be made through the selector lever or via the paddles on the wheel. The control system  manages to launch the car from a dead zero to the explosive turbo power while maintaining the car’s stability and minimum tire slip. The all-wheel drive gives the RS3 dynamics, stability and traction. The main component is its multi-plate clutch that is electronically controlled and placed at the propeller shaft’s end for the purpose of achieving an advantage in axle load distribution.

The famous Audi Quattro

Quattro enables the distribution of propulsive power to all the axles as required. Every time there is slip in any of the axles, the oil pressure is increased in a jiffy by an electric  powered pump. The two clutch plates are pressed on each other in a similar continuous motion which permits the redirection of torque accordingly. No matter how many words are used to describe this process the duration of time the actual process is much faster than the description. This is just to make sure that there are no interruptions caused by the slip.

The stiff body lays the cornerstone in the RS3 handling but the chassis makes everything fall in place. There is a four-link suspension that has a 60.16 inches track anchored to the sub frame. The front suspension is more widened but still has a separate sub frame. The major components of the construction are aluminum. The vertical support is provided by the shock absorbers and the coil springs. Compared to the A3, the sports suspension lowers the RS3 body by 0.98 inches.

The Audi RS3′s Interior

In the interior, there are a number of logos reminding the passenger that they are inside an Audi RS3. The interior comes in black with leather seats that are stitched in contrasting silver stitching. The car has a flat bottomed steering wheel, all leather and multifunctional. The instruments and the selector lever are uniquely designed. The driver information includes a lap timer, boost pressure and the oil temperature. The 2011 Audi RS3 comes with different standard equipment, such as the Sport button, climate control, xenon headlights, chorus radio system, and rear parking system.

The 2011 Audi RS3 not only comes with Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, but the new version will also enjoy the new S Tronic 7-speed transmission from Audi. This transmission uses a tall 7th gear that increases the efficiency levels of the vehicle at motorway speeds. Though the car is sporty, the exterior can appear as though it was a business car.

There are a few solutions to the problem of mold inside your car however that are pretty easy, and can clean up the mold pretty quickly.

The first thing to remember, is that bleach is a bad idea. Bleach doesn’t work well on porous surfaces, and thus will not work on your car upholstery. Also, you run the risk of damaging the colour in your car’s interior.

One of my favorite home remedies for mold on the inside of your car is white vinegar. Specifically distilled white vinegar because it’s stronger and you will need less of it.

How to remove mold in your car seats with white vinegar:

1. Take your distilled white vinegar and put it in a clean spray bottle… make sure your spray bottle is VERY clean.
2. Open up your car to let it ventilate for at least 5 minutes. You don’t want to work inside a car that is filled with mold spores.
3. You’re probably going to want to find a paper mask (like a 3M mask) to protect your lungs during the removal of the mold. This of course depends on how much mold is in the car, but it’s always better to be safe.
4. Spray the white distilled vinegar on the mold, and about 1 foot around the mold (the spores can be growing before they’re visible).
5. Make sure the area is completely saturated. This will obviously make your car smell of vinegar, but it will go away once we remove the mold and let the car air out.
6. Let the vinegar sit on the mold – DON’T WIPE IT OFF – for at least 10 minutes. This will kill the mold.
7. After the vinegar has sat on the mold for some time, you can wipe off the residue left by the mold.
8. Use a mold testing kit to make sure there are no more airborne spores in your car. If there are, it may be damaging to your health to continue to use the car.

1. If the mold test kit still shows there is significant mold in the car, consider getting the car professionally cleaned or your upholstery replaced.

The white vinegar will clean up vinyl or leather car interiors much better than cloth, but it will still work on cloth.

Removing mold from automotive carpet is a bit more difficult, but you can still use vinegar to kill it. Also, Borax is a natural mold killer that you can use to clean carpets and hard surfaces of your vehicles interior.

I would suggest using a wet vac both before and after the vinegar to ensure that you pick up any mold spores from inside the carpet. Once you’ve used the wet vac to pick up any left over vinegar and mold, be sure to properly clean the vacuum to ensure you do not spread the mold that you’ve picked up. If your vacuum has a bag, dispose of the bag right away.

There are a number of carpet cleaning services available in every town as well that would be able to help you clean the mold from your carpets. They can cost a bit more, but it’s worth it if you need to save your mouldy carpets.

Have you ever had any problems with mold in a car? Let us know in the comments below.

The jeep brand was established in 2002 and has ever since dominated the mid-sized SUV world. There have been improvements along the way, which has brought us to the new 2011 Jeep Liberty.

Scope
The 2011 Jeep Liberty is a 176.9 inch long and 72.4 inches wide vehicle with a 106.1 inch wheel base. It has a curb weight of 3985 lbs with the gross weight reaching 5600 lbs. The luggage capacity is 31.5 cu. Ft. and a maximum cargo capacity of 64 cu. ft. The maximum seating comfortable seating capacity is five.

Performance
Beneath the hood of the 2011 Jeep Liberty is a V6, 3.7 liter engine with 6 cylinders and a 210 Horsepower. The engine has a maximum rpm of 5200 and a 235 ft-lbs torque. The maximum payload that the jeep can handle without strain is 1150 lbs and a towing max capacity of 3500 lbs.

Fuel consumption
The 2011 Liberty has a fuel tank that holds 19.5 gallons. The fuel consumption approximation is: 16 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway and an average of 18 mpg for the city and the highway combined. The Jeep liberty is petrol driven machine though there was a short-lived diesel version. With a full tank you can drive the Jeep for 312 miles in the city, 429 miles on the highway and 351 miles for the combination on average.

Features
Mechanical features that make the 2011 Jeep Liberty outstanding include; a 3.7 displacement V6 single overhead cam engine. The gas engine has 12 valves that manage to give it a 210 horsepower at 5200 rpm. The Jeep also has a fuel cut-off when decelerating to economize on the fuel.

The sport utility is a 4 x 2 rear wheel drive with a brake hill holder. It is fitted with a tachometer, a clock and a low fuel indicator to complete its instrumentation.
The 2011 Jeep Liberty sports 16 x 7.0 alloy wheels fitted with all season tires. It has  a temporary spare tire, a steel spare wheel and an underbody mounted full size spare tire. The windscreen is fitted with intermittent wipers and the rear window with a defogger and a wiper.

Safety and comfort
Safety features that stand out in the 2011 Jeep Liberty are the ABS brake system with electronic brake force distribution, emergency braking assist, traction and stability control, fitted head air bags in the front and rear, occupant-sensing passenger airbags, front and rear seatbelts, tire pressure monitors, engine immobilizer, dusk sensing head lamp, 2 rear and front headrests passenger’s and driver’s whiplash protection, child seat anchors and safety door lock.

To travel comfortably the Jeep Liberty can hold 4 passengers and the driver. The front seats are made in a bucket design to enhance comfort. Rear seats have a folding and reclining ability. It is easy to operate doors band windows as they are powered with the windows being heated. The 2011 Jeep has cruise control on a power tilt-adjustable steering wheel. The accessory power was retained as from the 2010 version. There are cup holders at the front and door pockets. The Jeep is air conditioned with interior air filtration. There are both rear and front reading lights.  Another feature is duel illuminating vanity mirrors.

For people interested in music, the 2011 Jeep Liberty has got you covered as it has a CD Mp3 player with a total of six speakers. The Jeep comes with a 12 months subscription to satellite radio and an auxiliary MP3 output. The vehicle also has an AM/FM radio, a 6.5-inch touch screen, a 30 GB hard drive and a Garmin navigation system.

General car Info
The 2011 Jeep Liberty retains the SUV look but with better features. The new version has more cargo and storage space and improved seats for comfort. It comes with a sliding sunroof that allows an open air experience while driving. There are features fitted in the

new Jeep that makes it better than other Jeep versions like the remote start and memory seats. The 2011 Jeep Liberty lives up to its tough exterior look by being able to cruise rough terrain which is a trait not found in its SUV competitors. Steep approach and departure angles and exceptional suspension makes it easy for the Jeep to travel off-road. This is simply an all road sport utility vehicle.

Even with the improvements the Jeep may not be able to compete well with other SUVs because of its performance and fuel consumption. Apart from this the advantages and the
features of the new 2011 Jeep Liberty beats the down side by far.

The jeep is a good off-road vehicle for urban people with the desires of driving off the pavement. The safety of the Jeep has been proven through many test drives to come up with the current features that will ensure the safety of the drivers and their passengers.

The 2011 Jeep Liberty is available in either a six-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission. You can also choose to get the 4 x 2 sport trim or the 4 x 4 limited versions. When ordering for your 2011 Jeep Liberty you can specify the color you want or choose from the available four new exterior colors. The exterior can show some improvements as the curves are more defined and the body more aerodynamic. With more dashboard functions and added controls on the steering wheel, it is so comfortable and easy to manage a 2011 Jeep Liberty.

Prices
There is a difference in prices of the 2011 Jeep liberty depending on the trim you want to purchase. All the models have a 3.7 liter V6 engine with 210 horsepower. The prices range from $23, 250 for the Sport utility to $28,250 for the limited edition sport utility, the other one which is the Renegade comes in between for $27,250. You can be able to get Jeep accessories at a price.

Generally the 2011 Jeep Liberty’s prices did not change but the features were definitely upgraded. Whichever trim you choose to drive, just remember that Jeep is a machine that allows you to cruise in the city, on highways and in rugged terrain if you must.

Final thoughts from the editor

I love this little truck. For the price it’s one of the best ways to get off road out there. The fuel economy sucks, and it’s not going to win any speed records, but when it comes to the trails you get Jeep’s legendary track record and reputation for quality.

Had an experience with a Jeep Liberty? Thinking of buying a 2011 Jeep Liberty? Let us know in the comments below.

Ford offers three types of Mustang to choose from; you can go with the standard or base V-6, the GT V-8 or the spectacular Shelby GT supercharged V-8. You should not waste your money trying to acquire the older 2010 version as the 2011 renders it inferior and you should definitely not have much expectation in the 2012 version as they will not have major differences. The engineers working on this new version have really brought out the muscle car aspect of the Mustang and incorporated advanced technology to make one awesome super car.

The Ford engineers have souped-up the engine and increased the horsepower to a staggering 305 in just the V6 model. The engine block is now made of aluminum thus lighter than the normal cast blocks. The smooth touches on its exterior are more defined than ever but it still retains the signature grille, emblem and the side stripe. The 2011 Mustang is user-friendly because even though there is an increase in horsepower, speed in general and the installation of a 6 speed gearbox, fuel consumption is an outstanding 30 miles per gallon.

As far as the shape, that is something that is a looker as well.  The shape of the new Mustang borrows a lot from the design on the Mustang from the 60s and 70s but with a few touches on the tail and the nose not only to make it look modern but also contribute towards the streamlined shape for more speed and road stability.

Changes and Upgrades
Though you cannot spot the major differences between the 2011 version and its predecessors by just looking at it, if you drive the car you will have an experience out of this world. It is only then that you will realize the effort put into this version by dedicated Ford engineers.

Major changes can be noticed beneath the hood as the 3.7-liter 2011 Mustang has 95 hp more than the 2010 version which is a 4.0-litre. This makes the 2011 version more economical but with a more powerful engine.

The newer version has been fitted with twin variable camshaft timing and a genuine dual exhaust which together work to increase the rpm to a staggering 7,000, which is 1000 rpm over the previous version.

Technology has advanced and Ford has not been left behind, a lot of electronic work has been done to improve the ease of driving a Mustang including:

• There is use of computerized operations including a Ford’s MyKey teen-driver-safety installation. With this you can limit the speed and the audio volume of your car. You can also keep the traction-control engaged and activate unbuckled seatbelt reminders.
• The side mirrors are now powered with blind spot reduction using convex inserts.
• The 2011 Mustang now sports halogen headlamps and three-lens tail lamps with sequential indicator illumination.
• The switch to a powered steering has reduced drag considerably and consequently reduced the fuel consumption.
• There is an introduction of a software; “Active Nibble Control” which monitors the condition of wheels and compensates for any road clowning and crosswind.
• You will also have cruise control with power adjustable seats, air conditioning and automatic climate control, power windows and door locks with a remote lock and unlock function, stability control and ABS brakes.
• The 17” standard wheels have been replaced by the 19”alloy wheels with performance tread. The suspension is more reinforced and firmer.
• There is an audio navigation system, an electric sunroof option and a convertible version for convertible lovers, heated seats with airbags designed to protect the head and torso.
• All the options have an MP3 fitted with a 1,000 watt output.
• There is also the use of an infotainment sync system developed by Microsoft for Ford. It has USB and iPod ports and a Bluetooth phone link and music streaming.
• There are 100 fancy shades available for the illumination of the dashboard.

2011 Mustang Performance

The 2011 Ford Mustang has been tested on all aspects regarding performance by subjecting it to extreme conditions.  For a 3.7 liter with a speed of up to 160mph, the 2011 Mustang has got it figured out. The combination of so much power with low fuel consumption of up to 31 miles per gallon will be in the interest of most drivers.

This car also offers world class stability with an aerodynamic shape which gives the car a sport look and allows top speeds. Front and rear anti-roll bars have been made thicker for safety precautions. With the new improvement in the breaking system, you will be sure to avoid those small accidents. With between 7,000 and 8,000 rpm the 2011 Ford Mustang is surely a speed vehicle and with all the improvements and upgrades its performance is better and more fulfilling.

The 2011 Mustang GT

Finally the return of the 5 Litre mustang! This brand new 5.0L powered Mustang will pump out 412 ponies and 390 lb-ft of torque. To get all of the power to the ground you get the option of either a 6 speed automatic or a 6 speed manual transmission. All of that and a estimated fuel economy of 25 miles to the gallon? That sounds pretty kick ass to us.

“This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It’s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.”

How much for the super car?

For the quality and features of a 2011 Ford Mustang you will have to part with between $22,000 for a base version and $54,000 for a Shelby GT500 convertible depending on your specifications. You can choose to drive the base Mustang version, The Mustang GT, or the Mustang Shelby depending on your wallet and needs.

This is not expensive for people looking for speed, power, style, comfort and high performance not forgetting the fuel economy attribute of the 2011 Ford Mustang. You should also budget for transport shipping charges when planning to make a purchase.

For every version there is premium trim that comes with an additional $2,500 price tag. These premium trims have added accessories that make them more expensive. For example they will have leather interiors, aluminum accent dashboards and dressed up gauge clusters with automatic color illuminations. For an automatic transmission you can add an extra $995 for a base or GT model. You can also have a navigation kit installed at a price of $2,340.

In simple words, whatever extra accessory or feature you want in your car will demand you to cough up some extra cash. Although this does not mean that the 2011 Mustang in its base version is not a wonder. All in all the 2011 Ford Mustang gives you a ton of bang for the buck, some raw muscle and classic lines, and even some modern comforts.

Final Thoughts from the editor

I owned a ’95 5.0L mustang back in the day and it was one of the most fun cars I’ve had the chance to drive. Sure it didn’t handle well, it over-steered all the time and had too much weight up front… but I loved that car and it peeled rubber with no problems at all. Had an old 5.0 Litre at some point? Let me know in the comments below.

Essentially, all an extended warranty is is an insurance policy you take on your automobile. It is just a way to avoid those unpredictably but outrageous repair expenses. The term warranty is less accurate than insurance, in this way. However, similar to auto warranties, these do cover repairs or any sort of maintenance you encounter during the time period the policy is instated. But with the traditional warranty, you’ll purchase them as part of the product price. Extended auto warranties, on the other hand, are more like contracts. Service contracts if you will—they’ll run a separate cost and you’ll need to buy them separately as well.

Now, that doesn’t mean it needs to be done on a different day or place. In fact, you can purchase the extended warranty at the same place and day you purchase your vehicle, or even many days or months later. If you are the kind of person who needs full preparation at all times, just in case—the extended auto warranty is undeniably right for you. Especially when you consider the always rising cost of vehicular repair, the benefits of being protected are not difficult to see.

Once you determine that an extended auto warranty is the right decision for you, you’ll need to select a plan that addresses your needs. We understand this can seem a tad daunting, so we’ve listed a few points to consider below.

Your Pre-Existing Warranty:

Suppose you just purchased your vehicle brand new—examine its factory warranty and determine its value to you. For instance, suppose your warranty is for a couple of years or pre-determined amount of miles.

Well that’s fine, unless you plan on keeping it for more than a couple of years or driving more miles than what is pre-determined. If you do plan on keeping the car for a short period of time, then an extended warranty is hardly necessary. At the end of the day, it’s all about how long you choose to use the car. If you can predict your utilization of the vehicle to transcend the parameters of the original warranty, an extended plan is certainly in order. When buying a used vehicle, be aware that inherent warranties are usually packed with much less coverage. If purchasing a late-model pre-used vehicle, it may still be under original warranty or be part of a “Certified Used” program. These usually extend factory warranted to pre-owned automobiles. If your vehicle is under no (or just insufficient) warranty, the extended warranty is simply the natural choice.

The Reliability of Your Model:

It’s always a good idea to do some research before you buy. Even after you buy, it can be effective in figuring out of the extended warranty plan is a good bet. Look at how reliable the model vehicle you are buying is. While this might not be the one stop answer to determining your future repairs, it does give you a hint of what to expect, so keep it in mind when making important warranty decisions.

Warranty Provider:

Keep in mind that most warranties are only as good those who provide it to you. With an extended auto warranty, it can be backed either by an independent warranty company (or an aftermarket) or alternatively by the manufacturer of the vehicle. You’ll find that just knowing who is underwriting your policy can provide you with insight into the strengths and weaknesses of contracts you are considering. For instance, warranties backed by the manufacturer are generally much easier to use, while aftermarket values are typically cheaper. Always do additional research into the warranty practices and offerings of either the manufacturer or the aftermarket company, as the quality can differ from brand to brand, instance to instance.

Reparation Policies:

There are a few extended auto warranties that require your repairs to be done at the dealership from which it was purchased. This is nothing but restrictive and often becomes inconvenient for you. It’s ideal that you prefer a warrant that allows you some selective freedoms when choosing a repair facility, one that is more convenient for you. For instance, if you’re on vacation or a road trip and you need a repair, is it really practical to drive all the way back to the original dealership just to receive repairs? This can be a deal breaker.

Exact Coverage:

You’ll need to know exactly what is covered, and what is not, by whichever extended warranty you choose.

Does your service contract cover breakdowns and just usual wear and tear, and what are the specifics of a “breakdown warranty?” Also, a few entry level contracts won’t cover ABS brakes, which is an amenity gaining rapid popularity. If your vehicle employs the ABS feature, you’ll need to find an appropriate extended auto warranty. Additionally, overheating is usually not covered by warranties, even if it is proves to be not your fault. If an overheating fiasco is caused by a faulty radiator, you’d have quite an expensive repair bill to pay. Before investing in any warranty contract, make sure to familiarize yourself with its areas of coverage and regulations. While some contract-to-contract instances differ only in subtly, they can make all the difference in certain instances.

Cash for Repairs:

There a few different ways in which warranties can operate. With some, you pay the bill, and then send them a receipt so they can compensate you accordingly. However, as you could expect, the warranty companies relax and take a few months before sending you these hefty sums. For best results, find a warranty that pays the dealership directly via credit card.

In the long run, you just need to compare all options and weigh the odds before making a final decision in regards to warranty. Thankfully, the internet makes this considerably easy, many companies sell these contracts directly online, or at least offer instance quotes. With these features, you’ll be able to obtain a decent idea of what your desired plan will cost you. But at the end of the day it’s just like anything else, you best bet is to be very well informed.

Unfortunately, not many people are prudent enough to research on these kinds of things and end up with less than good car lease deals.

If you already have or are planning on getting a car lease, then it is important to know how the residual value of a car affects your lease.

A car lease residual value is one of the most important, if not the most important factor in leasing a car.

But what are residual values?

In simple terms, it is the estimated value of your leased car vehicle at the end of the lease period.

Some of the factors that affect residuals are the annual mileage of a car, length of lease, model of the vehicle, its resale history, future supply and demand variables, gas prices, and even expected future economic conditions.

Lease residuals can be set by several different people. The dealer, the bank, the manufacturer, etc. are all able to effect the expected residual value of your car. It is important to note that auto lease residuals are always a set percentage of the MSRP or the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price.

Avoid bank leases with over inflated rates to keep your payments low. If you want to know exactly how much the residual is on your car, you can grab a lease kit which contains a residual value calculator available online.

So how do residual values effect your lease?

The higher the expected residual value of the car, the lower your payments will be on your lease.

Look at it this way, if you’re leasing a car for $30,000 for two years, and it’s expected that the car will be worth $20,000 after two years then during your lease term you will need to pay $10,000 plus taxes and fees.

However if that same car is expected to be worth only $10,000 after your lease term then you’re actually paying $20,000 plus taxes and fees, and your payments will have more than doubled.

Trying to find a vehicle with a high residual value is great if you want low lease payments, but it’s also has a flip side. If you get really attached to your car and you want to keep it after your 2 year lease term, then a high residual value will leave you with a lot more to pay when it comes time to buy the car.

How the heck can I find a vehicle with a high residual value?

There are a number of ways of finding a car with a higher residual value.

Residual Value of the brand.
This is really important and can effect your lease payments quite a bit. Some brands hold their value better than others. In this case, you can do a lot of research online at sites like Edmonds.com to find used car prices and compare them to new car prices. This should give you a good indicator of how much your car will be worth after your lease.

Terms of the lease.
Lease terms will effect the residual value of your car by quite a bit. If you have a low mileage lease, the residual value of your car will stay higher than if you had a standard mileage lease. You should always shop around to find various lease terms as they will effect your payments.

Who is assigning the residual value.
The party that assigns the residual value to the vehicle will effect the residual value as well. A manufacturer’s residual value is almost always higher because they can generally afford to lose a bit of money on the back end of the deal just to get the business.

The most important part

Finding a good car lease takes research and education. You can often find that two different dealers will offer different residual values on the same car.

Which one do you choose?

If you’re looking to buy the car after your lease then you want the lowest residual value. But if you’re not intending on purchasing the car after your lease, then you want the highest residual value because it will end up saving you on monthly payments.

Have an experience with a car lease? Let us know in the comments below.

The first tip for the auto owner is to realize that it is a negotiation- but know what you have to negotiate with.  Granted, if you are trading in an old Arrow, chances are, there will not  be much negotiating.

Most dealers are hoping to profit between $1200 to $1800 for the trade in.  Many auto owners assume that the dealer automatically gives them the book value; however, this is not automatically the case.  If the car is of book value, most dealers will pay it, but often times the trade in value is much less because of the condition of the car.

There are a number of factors that affect the trade-in of your vehicle.  To start, the inventory on the lot, the product mix on the lot, and even the day of the month matters.  If you  are trying to trade in a blue Explorer and the dealer already has five used blue Explorers on the lot then you are likely looking at a lower trade-in value.  If they don’t have any Explorers on the lot, however, you are likely to get the trade-in value closer to what you expect.

What can you expect when you bring your car to trade it in?  Well, typically, the used car manager will take the car for a test drive.  He will examine the body of the car for any damage, check under the hood, and the interior of the vehicle and use the Black Book as a guide to price the trade-in value.  Other determinants will be if the car has been smoked in, and the condition of the tires.

As a consumer it is important to be aware of what you have.  Before going to the dealer with your vehicle, have the vehicle inspected by a professional that can tell you the wholesale value of the car.  Also, use the available tools on the Internet to compare the asking prices of the vehicle.

Have a great story about a trade in? Let us know in the comments below.

Here’s a list of 23 MUST DO car maintenance tips that will keep your car in tip top shape in between major services.

1. Break in new cars carefully – If you’re driving a new car there is a break in period. This step is incredibly important and can’t be overlooked. If you are too hard on the engine it will seriously lower the life span of your car and cause you a heap of headache in the future. When buying a new car, make sure you’re aware of all break in procedures so that you can follow the steps to the tee.
2. Buy good gas and don’t allow the tank to get too empty – Not all gasoline was created equal. Make sure you purchase gas from a reputable company so that you don’t get stale or dirty fuel. Also, if you can avoid using the bottom 1/4 (quarter) tank of fuel you will maintain a cleaner fuel system. Condensation and sediment can build up in your gas tank and if you run your car almost to empty you increase the risk of this sediment being picked up by your fuel filter.
3. Don’t fill up at a gas station that is being refilled – If you’re looking for a fillup, don’t buy gasoline from a station that has a tanker truck in the lot. This means they are filling the tanks and this causes the sediment in the tanks to be kicked up and enter the gas station system. It’s best to come back the following day or to find another station.
4. Park in the shade – This car tip will help to keep UV rays off of your paint job and extend the life and colour of your car’s paint.
5. Clean the inside regularly – Don’t just wash the outside of your car, clean the inside too. Give your car a vacuum and clean the dash board and instrument panel. Use a protectant like Armourall to protect your dashboard from the sun.
6. Fix weatherstripping right away – Bad weatherstripping can cause leaks, which can cause mold, which is almost impossible to fully clean. Make sure if you see bad weatherstripping on your car to fix it right away. It will only get worse if you leave it.
7. Maintain your leather – If you have leather seats, buy a leather conditioner and use it regularly on your leather interior. This will prevent drying or cracking and will extend the colour and softness of your leather.
8. Protect your paint – When washing your car, be sure to use a wax at the end. This will not only add to the shine, but protect your paint from the sun. Also, don’t use your car as a shelf… everyone needs a place to lean or put stuff sometimes, but it shouldn’t be your car.
9. Fix windsheild chips – If you fix windshield chips right away they can’t turn into full blown cracks. Usually you can get chips filled and fixed at a glass shop for pretty cheap… and it only takes a few minutes so you really have no reason not to.
10. Keep an old blanket handy – An old blanket in your car can be handy for a number of things. If you have to transport something on the roof, or if you’re placing something dirty in your trunk you can protect your carpet, paint or interior.
11. Wash in winter – You should definitely wash your car in the winter and not only the summer. Winter driving will create a lot of build up of salt, dirt and grime which can hurt your paint, cause rust and ruin your wheels. Wash your car just as regularly in the winter as the summer.
12. Keep tire valve caps on – It’s easy to lose these buggers, but if you do your tires can slowly (or quickly) lose air and leave you stranded, cause you fuel mileage or worse, cause an accident. Tire pressure is very important, and tire valve caps help to maintain it.
13. Rotate your tires – If your car has tires that can be rotated, they should be regularly. Unless you have high performance tires, you should be able to rotate them to maintain tread wear and increase the life of your tires.
14. keep your tires properly inflated – Even a small drop in tire pressure can cause major drops in fuel economy. Plus it can damage your tires, increase tread wear and even cause a blowout. To make sure you’re not spending too much at the pump, or putting yourself in danger, make sure your tires are properly inflated. The correct tire pressure will be printed on the side of your tires and most tire shops will fill your tires at no cost.
15. Check for moisture in airpumps – If you are filling the air in your tires and you notice that there is moisture coming from the air pump you need to let the shop owner know. The air pump will need to be drained. If they cannot or will not drain the water, find another shop with a pump that will not fill your tires with moisture. The excess moisture can cause pressure problems and even corrode your wheels from the inside.
16. Clean your wheels – Your wheels see a lot of dirt, grime, water and use. Maintain the finish on your wheels properly by cleaning them when you wash your car. Most modern wheels have a clear coat finish like the paint job on your car and can be maintained in the same way.
17. Check your wheel alignment – An incorrect wheel alignment can cause the car to not drive straight or wear your tires excessively. In order to maintain your car’s tires and make sure your car is safe to drive, have your alignment checked when servicing your car.
18. Check engine oil regularly – Ever second fillup or so you should be checking the oil level in your car. Low or dirty oil can cause excess wear on your engine and a multitude of problems down the road. Engine oil is VITAL to your car’s engine and must be taken seriously.
19. Change your oil frequently – Engine oil will collect dirt and grime from the inside of your engine. By changing it regularly you are removing the dirt and maintaining a clean engine that will last longer and run better.
20. Change oil, air and fuel filters regularly – Don’t forget to change the filters in your engine. Each of the power train’s filters will effect engine performance and an excess buildup of dirt in the filters will drastically decrease the efficiency of the engine.
21. Check spark plugs – Checking spark plugs is necessary once every two oil changes. They should be properly gapped by a technician and clean of any buildup. A lot of engine problems can be spotted early on by checking your spark plugs and changing if necessary.
22. Fuel injector cleaner – Fuel injector cleaner will help to maintain the flow of fuel into your engine cylinders. Dirty fuel injectors can cause low fuel economy or even damage or fire in the engine compartment. If you have a fuel injected engine, every 6 months add a bottle of fuel injector cleaner to a full tank of gas.
23. Run your AC unit in winter – By running your A/C unit in the winter you make sure that it stays in working condition. If the AC unit is not running for too long, it can cause problems when you go to use it in the following summer.

If you have any additional car maintenance tips to add to this list, be sure to let us know in the comments below.