Automotive

At some point in an automobile's functioning existence, it will need some repairs or replacement for its parts. A visit to your mechanic is not always necessary, especially since you can take a hands-on approach and actually get the replacements done yourself which saves you money. Auto repair is not rocket science and you can learn the basics by consulting good auto repair guides freely found on the World Wide Web, which often provide detailed, step-by-step instructions on all sorts of auto repair. However, before you have to replace your parts, it is best to keep them in good condition so that they may last longer.

Proper cleaning of your wheels is one way of ensuring you get good performance for longer from them. For routine cleaning, using just a mild soap and water will be enough. However, when you want to carry out thorough cleaning, you need to know the type of finish used on your wheels so that you do not cause any damage on them. Different finishes require different types of cleaners, so you need to know what kind of finish your wheels are made of.

To properly clean your wheels and keep them in perfect shape, here are some key pointers you need to keep in mind;

· First ensure that the vehicle is parked under a shade so that the sun does not dry the soap faster than you can rinse it off, and remember to turn off the engine to cool the metal and the brakes around the rims. Don't let abrasive tire cleaners come into contact with your wheels, and try not to spray cold water on hot wheels. Using a mild soap and water, lather your wheels sufficiently.

· Rinse off the wheels. Depending on the coating on your wheels and the amount of dirt, you may use a pressure washer. Then, using cleansers that contain no additives like bleach add a few drops of the cleanser in a large bucket of water and properly mix it.

· After rinsing your wheels, choose a suitable polish and evenly polish them up. For clear coated wheels, use a polishing cleaner that is provided by the manufacturer. The main reason for polishing is to enhance the shine of the glossy rims after washing- and you can do this using a rag in circular motion until the whole area is evenly coated.

· Finally, if you have chrome-plated wheels, wax them until the wax is completely rubbed in and is not noticeable. If you have clear coated wheels, you may leave out this step. The wax will create a layer between dirt, debris, oil and even the rims, making it easier for you the next time you clean your rims and also prevents surface corrosion.

Following the above simple steps, you're sure to maintain the great look of your tires for a long period of time. Doing your homework in terms of knowing your needs, your budget and the best tire manufacturers in the market for your auto is very important to get the right quality wheels in the first place. Having a good routine maintenance on your auto will keep your wheels running for longer and save you money.

Are you looking for a jeep accessory that would protect you from the intense heat of the sun? How about from the unexpected unpleasant weather like heavy rains? Then you might want to try the Bestop Supertop! It is your shield against adverse weather and at the same time will allow you to have a comfortable ride.

The Bestop Supertop is the soft top with the highest functional quality. It comes in exceptional styles which you are free to choose from. It is made of high-quality and durable materials which prevent it from easily being worn-out even after being exposed for a long time. It also has a UV inhibitor that ensures your protection against the suns radiant rays while still maintaining its good fit and shape.

You can never consider the Bestop Supertop a pain since it is very easy to install. It comes with detailed instructions that can easily be followed even by those without any experience in doing so. Since the soft top is made of light materials, it is easy to lift and adjust to a perfect fit and can definitely save you more time and effort!

Are you worried about the price? You don't have to be. The Bestop Supertop comes in an affordable price, considering its features and high-quality performance. It is one good investment! Aesthetically, it comes in different styles allowing you to choose the one which could give your ride that ultimate "look". Convenience, comfort, efficacy and style are what the Bestop Supertop offers with a very reasonable price. What more can you ask for? Bestop Supertop could be had at a very affordable price even if it comes with superb features and top quality. It is one equipment worthy to be invested on. It is available in different styles making you choose the one that could make your jeep look astounding. Convenience, comfort, efficacy and style are what the Bestop Supertop offers with a very reasonable price. So what else are you waiting for?

With the wide range of soft tops that the market now offers, the decision on what to choose solely relies on you, your personal preferences and maybe even your budget. After all, you will be the one who will be using it! But in searching for a soft top, consider its features and weigh out the advantages and disadvantages of your choices. Be sure to pick one which could cater all your needs and at the same time give your vehicle some style and make your ride comfortable.

Every car owner wants their truck or car to run smoothly. Having great horsepower and getting the best from your engine is your dream so that the vehicle runs to full capacity. Well, if you have your engine tuned and a new exhaust installed, you have given your car some tender care. However, it is not enough, there is always more you can do.

Maintaining your car is your responsibility. Not only will it ensure that your car runs efficiently, it also saves you the cost of having to repair and install new accessories all the time. Here are some of the maintenance tips you can use for your vehicle.

Rusting starts from the inside of the pipes to the outside. This result from the moisture in the exhaust tubes which comes from the exhaust fumes that condenses in the tubes when the car is cooling off. Some aftermarket suppliers provide a chemical placed in the system to absorb moisture. It will help reduce rusting and you can always have the chemical replaced when it's saturated.

When driving, always ensure that you do not straddle paths and pavements to prevent your tips from collecting particles that could block the system. Driving over bumps should be slow and calculated to prevent your exhaust tips from being hit. They end up becoming loose and will eventually hang out. The rubbing of the system causes holes that lead to loss of power.

As you drive, always listen to any noises coming from under your car. Loud clatter noises indicate a hole in the system; some clog on the other hand will show that the muffler has too much soot that will interfere with performance.

When the inside of the muffler is clogged, most times it needs replacement. The outside on the other hand can be cleaned together with the tips. Use a dry cloth to wipe off the soot and dirt from the outside of the muffler. If there is too much grease, use a wet cloth with some soap then dry off the muffler completely. It may not shine completely but maintains a good look on the exterior of your car and prevent clogging.

Fasteners and hangers loosen up over time and need to be tightened once in a while. There are faults that you cannot detect by merely looking under the car. Get a professional inspect your car once a year. They can either tighten the system or advice you on replacement of the faulty parts of the system. In the option of replacement, contact suppliers like magnaflow for advice on the best accessories for your exhaust system.

Introduction

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a medium-sized, compact car from the famous SUV manufacturer. Its design roots can be traced back to Willy's MB and Jeep CJ that used to be produced back in the early days of the SUV. The new Jeep Wrangler models have the traditional toughness you could expect from a Jeep yet gives an entirely refined appearance. The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is expected to hit the showrooms later this year. So, let's give you a run-down of what you can expect from it and what changes are present from its earlier 2016 version as well as what its competitors are up to.

Appearance

The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited won't have a complete shift from its 2016 version that's for sure since any major design overhaul from the company invites scepticism from the auto lovers. Most of us have been used to the rugged frame, full throttle four-wheel drive and a pair of robust axles and so we can't expect anything too far-off. But, regarding the new model's materials used, Jeep is expected to use rendered Aluminium since it will make the car even stronger yet lighter. You can also expect the iconic folded down windscreen as well this time around!

Any mechanical changes?

Since Jeep has going on about it a while, we can possibly expect it in the 2017 edition, and that is the small matter of automatic transmission. The 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited had 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission, and the problem was with the latter since the power breakdown wasn't enough to cater for the heavy requirements of an off-road vehicle. So, Jeep will increase it to an 8-speed automatic transmission this time around, and this will help improve the accelerator response and fuel efficiency on the go for the new car. Torque is expected to remain unchanged at 260 lb/ft. The same thrilling 4WD experience will also be continued (Like it is ever going to end!)

Fuel Economy

Thanks to the new 8-speed automatic transmission and body frame, the fuel efficiency of 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is expected to increase significantly this time around. It can be as much as 1-2 mpg in manual transmission and 3-4 mpg in the automatic transmission. The car is expected to continue with 87-Octane fuel just like before.

Any price concerns?

They are expected to go up a little bit more than the yearly inflation rates since the change in the transmission and body would require more premium work. Price range from a manual transmission-based two-door Sport model

Competitors

Nissan Frontier, Subaru Forester, Toyota Tacoma and Colorado from Chevrolet are just a few of the competitors you can expect to give a tough time to the Jeep's new and refined monster. But regarding fuel economy and pure thrill, who can come close to this beauty?

When is the release date?

The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is expected to release by late 2016 or early 2017 according to carpreview.com.




$25,000 and a fully loaded Rubicon around $45,000 inclusive of the destination fee that was about $1,000 on its own.

On a trip to India In May, I drove the diesel model. After 40 km on Mumbai's highway, it was clear to me that the high-riding hatchback could very well raise some eyebrows in the SA passenger-car market.

My first experience of the Mahindra KUV100 back in South Africa was a 'Sunset Orange' diesel model. It was powered by a 1.2-litre turbodiesel engine capable of a modest 57kW/190Nm. They claim the fuel consumption is 4.4l/100km but you won't be able to accurately tell as it doesn't have a consumption gauge.

Specifications:
The K6+ derivatives and above offer a six-speaker sound system with Bluetooth connectivity to the Mahindra Blue Sense app. A multi-function steering wheel and a refrigerated glove compartment are also included.

Despite its low horsepower, the three-cylinder delivered as it did in Mumbai and felt lively with loads of torque between all five gears.

The gearbox really deserves all the accolades. The shifting is solid and precise but sadly the clutch pedal is too low down on the floor. It took me a while to get used to and this is perhaps something Mahindra should reconsider.

On that note, the pedal placement of the brake and clutch are too close together. If you have small feet, you might be OK or just let your toddler drive you around.

Taking to a gravel road showed an acceptable ride but the height of the 1155kg KUV100 meant the ride was rather bumpy, especially at speed. Build quality could also be improved upon as I experienced wind noise while driving on the highway.

I wouldn't go for the petrol model even though it also has the 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine (61kW/115Nm). It feels lethargic and nothing compared to the diesel. In first, second and third gear it really struggled like the Bulls did in Super Rugby this year.

Is the KUV worth buying?:
Mahindra claims the KUV100 competes with the Toyota Etios Cross, Renault Sandero Stepway, Suzuki Swift, Hyundai Grand i10, Chery J2, Tata Bolt and the Ford Figo. It's a tough ask as most of these cars have great commercial value, brand loyalty, better-perceived build quality and an established dealer network.

There is one area the Mahindra KUV100 outshines the rest and that is on price. It will set you back a little under R150 000 for the entry level petrol model which comes standard with aircon, electric windows, ABS and driver/passenger airbags.

I may have been somewhat reluctant of the KUV100 but at the end of the launch I had really warmed up to the diesel model. The price, equipment level and overall driving experience left a good impression. Let's hope the automaker ages like a fine wine and not like vinegar.

In conclusion, the diesel engine and gearbox are both more than adequate but the biggest concerns are pedal placement, clutch and wind noise. It remains to be seen whether or not South Africans will be interested in the KUV100 but it's certainly worth a mention. Even if the Mahindra KUV100 isn't quite your cup of tea, there is more Mahindra on the way.

*Three-year or 100 000 km warranty on all models and a three-year or 50 000 km service plan on the K6+ and K8 derivatives (optional for K4+).

The upcoming new MG Hector SUV is getting all braced up for its Indian launch. The Hector SUV will be the British carmaker's very first offering in India. The Morris Garages Hector was recently officially unveiled in the country. MG Motors has opened the SUV's pre-launch bookings earlier this month, while it is being offered for test drives from 15th June onwards.

MG Motors India has already revealed the full engine specifications as well as the dimension details of the Hector mid-sized SUV during its formal unveiling. Let's take a brief look at the details:

The new Morris Garages Hector will be a premium mid-sized SUV model that will come braced with a whole host of premium features, safety equipment, and latest techs. It will offer some first in segment features and will be offered in both petrol and diesel versions in India. It will also be offered in a mild-hybrid option in the petrol version which will deliver great fuel economy along with lesser emissions.

Powertrains

The MG Hector petrol gets powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine that will come in regular and a 48V mild-hybrid system option. The petrol variants will be mated to a 6-speed DCT gearbox. The mild hybrid system is said to improve the fuel efficiency of the petrol engine utilizing techs like the engine start/stop system and regenerative braking system. The mild-hybrid system will also offer additional torque for better acceleration in slow traffic conditions.

On the other hand, the Hector diesel will be packing in the same 2.0-liter oil burner that does the duty on the popular Jeep Compass. The Fiat sourced diesel motor will be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Below are the details of the MG Hector SUV's powertrains:

MG Hector Petrol:

Engine - 1.5 L Petrol

Power - 141 bhp

Torque - 230 Nm

Transmission - 6-Speed MT / DCT (AT) / 6-Speed Hybrid

MG Hector Diesel:

Engine - 2.0 L

Power - 167 bhp

Torque - 350 Nm

Transmission - 6-speed MT

Dimensions

As per the reports, the Morris Garages Hector SUV will be available for sale in India in four model trims. It is said to be introduced as a 5-seater SUV at launch. However, a 7-seater version is likely to be offered at a later date. The 5-seater Hector is quite a large SUV for a mid-sized SUV model. It will offer abundant interior space to comfortably accommodate 5 occupants. The SUV will also provide 587 liters of boot space, which as per MG claims will be the best segment.

The following are the dimension details of the new upcoming MG Hector India :

Measurements - MG Hector

Length - 4655 mm

Width - 1835 mm

Height - 1760 mm

Wheelbase - 2750 mm

Ground Clearance - 192 mm

The new upcoming Morris Garages Hector mid-sized premium SUV is expected to launch in the car market of India with a starting price range of around Rs. 15 lakhs. Post its launch in the country, the Hector will be locking its horns with the likes of some very popular and well-established SUV models including the Jeep Compass, Tata Harrier, Mahindra XUV500 and Hyundai Tucson.

Sandy John works with V3Cars.com sharing latest update and news on Indian cars. In this article sharing information Engine Specs, dimensions on newly launched SUV MG Hector in India.

When thinking of different things that keep us safe during a drive, we rarely even think about the windshield. But the truth is - the windshield of your vehicle is more important than you think. Anyone who has been driving for a long time would have come across this situation: a dented or cracked windshield. Early drivers tend to ignore this because it does appear to be something that could cause any major damages to the vehicle or the driver. And you would postpone the repair until there is time and money to do this. But that time will never come. Getting your windshield fixed is an easy part of an auto repair. It is important and can be done even from home.

Cracked Windshield

The windshield is a two-layered laminated glass. This laminate is made of vinyl plastic which is very strong. The windshield accounts for nearly 20% of the strength of the car. It plays a major role in keeping you safe. With the advancement in technology, the process of placing the windshield has become a computer controlled process. It has been designed to work with the other safety devices in the car. For instance, the airbags need a strongly bonded windshield in order to work correctly. Thus, it is important to get even a tiny crack on the windshield repaired. Ignoring it may put the life of the driver in danger.

AUTO REPAIR:

The costs for replacing the entire windshield costs $300 and repairing a crack or a chip in the windshield could cost around $100 or lesser. There are also many kits available for you to repair the windshield yourself. These kits can be purchased from Amazon and in large stores that sell auto parts such as Wal-Mart, Kmart, Sears, and AutoZone. The kit will consist of the adhesive seal, windscreen repair resin, curing film, pedestal and a safety razor. Once you have the kit, park your car in your garage or somewhere indoors. Use a pain to clear out any broken glass from the windshield and leave it to dry. The instructions on how to use the kit will be available with the package. If the directions are unclear, the best option is to take the car to an auto repair workshop.

Another consideration is your car insurance. If you carry comprehensive coverage, then windshield repair can be included in your coverage. Be sure to check your deductibles as this will be required to be paid first. In some states, there is no deductible for windshield damage, as it is considered a safety related repair.

At the end of the day, the important thing is that any windshield repairs are fixed immediately and you are no longer vulnerable to any potential accidents.

When you drive around town or travel long distances you probably check that your car is in good working order. Driving around town requires a lot of stop and go action while travelling long distances tends to be a continuous driving action. Either way there is an impact on the tyres.

It is important to know when to change the tyres on your car so that they take you to your destination safely. Here are a few tips as to when to change the tyres.

The tread is smooth. When the tyre tread is smooth, in other words it is less than 2 millimetres deep. If the tread depth is less than 2 millimetres it affects the braking action of the car. The smooth tyres will not have sufficient grip on the road when you want to come to a complete stop, it will affect grip when going around a corner, and it will certainly affect driving in wet and rainy conditions. In each of these cases a smooth tyre could cause an accident. So make sure that you change the tyre when the tread is less than 2 millimetres.
It is damaged or worn. If there is wear anywhere on the tyre such as frayed edges because they are old then you need to change it. Driving with worn tyres can be dangerous because you never know when it might burst. Another occasion when you might need to change it is after hitting a big pothole. Potholes can cause great damage to the wheel so you need to inspect it thoroughly before you attempt to drive with it. A big pothole could not only damage the tyre, it could also damage the mag wheel and the suspension.
There is a puncture. If the tyre has a hole in it then this is a definite indication that it needs to be changed. Don't attempt to drive with the puncture. This will make the wheel flat and it could cause the car to be imbalanced. This imbalance is dangerous as it can cause you to make an accident because the handling of the car is drastically affected.
When you notice that there is any wear, damage or punctures on the tyres, then get the tyre changed. You could do it yourself by replacing it with the spare wheel. But it would be better if you could take it to a specialist who will remove the damaged tyre from the mag wheel and replace it with a new one. You could still keep the mag wheel as it needs to match the other mag wheels on your car.

A car can be one of the biggest investments that you make or at least one of the biggest purchases in your life. Depending on the type of car you buy, the price of it could be as high as a house's price. That being said it is advisable to take really good care of your car.

Overall, you should take care of your car as whole, from the outside to the inside. Keep the body of the car clean and dent free. Wash the car as often as you can, vacuum the inside and polish the dashboard and tyres. Be careful where you drive and park to avoid bumps and dents from occurring on your car's body.

Look after the engine too. Avoid opening the bonnet unnecessarily so that it doesn't get exposed to too much dust. Check the oil and water to ensure that it remains topped up for the efficient functioning of the vehicle. If you suspect that there is something wrong with the engine don't be tempted to repair it yourself. Rather let a qualified mechanic check it and repair it for you.

Take care of the wheels and tyres. Make sure that you have the tyres inflated regularly to prevent it from running flat. This also optimises your driving if the tyres are sufficiently inflated. If you notice that he tread is low, then change the tyres. Don't drive with them for long as this could lead to the car not being able to come to a stop as quickly as it would with new tyres.

Check the brakes often especially when you notice something unusual. If you hear the brakes squeak or whistle, or feel that the brake pedal is spongy, then get it checked. There could be a problem with the brake elements such as the brake discs. Rather be safe than sorry when it comes to this car part.

In general, you should take your car for a service every year or when the set mileage is reached for your particular vehicle. During a service all the parts of your car will be checked to ensure that it is roadworthy and safe to drive. Keep a record of the car's service so that you build up a good history. This will serve you well when you want to sell the car. It will increase the value of your car, especially if you take good care of it.

It's just the beginning of 2017 and BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG), one of the best-selling luxury automakers in the world, is all set to sensationalize the global market with one of its finest models of crossovers in the upcoming year of 2018. Preening to perfection, the new SUV is ready to slot in-between X1 and X3 and hence, gets its name - BMW X2 SUV. First showcased at the 2016 Paris Motor Show the preview model of 2018 BMW X2 is speculated to stay true to its design principles as detailed last year with only a handful of changes anticipated - though to the positive end. It will be the third and the smallest product to be released in its category. Let's have a detailed view.

2018 BMW X2 Concept

As per the design makers of BMW, the idea of X2 has been conceptualized on the lines of offering a combination of enjoyment with practicality. The car amalgamates a perfect blend of fast moving body language along with low-slung proportions of a coupe that makes it a robust construction of its counterpart X1 series.

2018 BMW X2 Design and Exterior

Talking about the front side of 2018 BMW X2, it features a large kidney grille that's fringed by slender headlights featuring signature LEDs. The big front bumper and silver lower trim, On the other hand, give the car its much talked about rugged SUV appearance. Further, at the back, the SUV coupe speaks of a low roof line with narrow windows which do justice to the concept of X2 design cue. Though it's more like a hatchback than a sports car, it's said to offer the best of both the worlds.

Moving ahead the wide wheelchairs add 2018 BMW X2 some muscle look. While at the same time, the broad 21-inch wheels give the car its complete resilient profile. At the back, the tailgate, however, isn't exactly what we've seen BMW incorporate in its previous hatchbacks like X4 or X6. BMW X2 typically gives a more realistic appeal despite its sleek style.

Furthermore, X2, as modeled in Paris Motor Show, should have a centrally located BMW badge bordered by slender taillights and a number plate that finds itself attached to the bumper. Much similar to what we've seen in the auto marque's 1st hatch series.

2018 BMW X2 Interior

The interiors of this roaring beast are expected to take inspiration from BMW's new 5 Series classy cabin. A freestanding infotainment display that sits right on top a simple, central console and comes fitted with BMW's new gesture control features. The dashboard will come in two variants - wood-effect or glossy metal finish.

The X2's roofline can be a bit of a turn-off, especially for tall passengers - don't expect to feel comfortable in the back when it comes to long journeys. Leg space also lags here.

2018 BMW X2 Engine

X2 will feature the same UKL1 platform as its counterparts BMW X1 and Mini Countryman. A result, it's likely to brag front-wheel drive and be available in four major variants - three diesel engines and one petrol. Entry level cars will feature six-speed manual gearbox. While on the other hand, the drivers will be offered the benefits of choosing a smooth eight-speed automatic as well.

2018 BMW X2 Driving

The basic 2018 BMW X2 model will eye a 148hp diesel while the mid-range SUV's will probably boasts of 187hp and 227hp units. To give you an idea, the current model of X1 has a 148hp diesel which returns a remarkable 68.9mpg. 227hp model race between 0 and 62mph in about 6.6 seconds only. These figures give us a rough idea what X2 can mirror or exceed.

Moving ahead, no such details are yet available about 2018 BMW X2's drivetrain. However, insider reports suggest that the production model will feature 1.5 liter, three-cylinder motor, while its top end models should receive a more powerful motor of 2.0 liter and four-cylinder unit with BMW's twin turbo technology.

2018 BMW X2 Release Date and Price

The Munich-based automaker is expected to commence the delivery of 2018 BMW X2 by the start of the second quarter of 2017. The crossover is expected to be priced close to its counterpart X1 at the cost of $35,000 (base model). Bigger crossovers will come for about $38,000. The cost further will fluctuate between diesel and petrol variants.

INTRODUCTION:
Volvo has launched the second-generation XC60 SUV in India at a starting Price of Rs.55.90 lakhs with a fuel-efficient powertrain, increased safety systems and of course a luxurious feeling. The Volvo XC60 is provided with just a single variant, known as Inscription, as for now in India. However, the Swedish Brand looks determined enough to assemble the SUV in India just like the earlier XC90, as competition gets stronger like never before.

DESIGN:
Lets take a look at the Design aspect of the SUV. The SUV is pretty much inspired by its larger relative XC90. Highlights of design are 19 inch alloy wheels, waterfall grille, all LED headlamps and sleek but attractive tail lamps. The SUV is 44 mm longer, 11 mm wider and 14 mm shorter in height than earlier variants. The Ride is quite comfortable for 5 people. The interiors are familiar Volvo designs which by all means is a compliment. The standout of the Single piece Driftwood dashboard is the 9 inch Touchscreen Infotainment System. A 15 speaker system by Bowers and Wilkins, a Sunroof and all round Heated Seats are other Deign highlights.

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS:
The Volvo XC60 is powered by a 2.0 litre, 4 cylinder turbocharged diesel Engine, and produces 235 PS of Maximum Horsepower and 480 Nm of Torque, thus easily makes it the most powerful SUV in its segment category. XC60 has a 8-Speed Automatic transmission and the Company claims to reach a top speed of 230 kmph. Thus Driving luxury is enhanced and speed lovers won't be disappointed with this specifications.

The Volvo XC60 Specifications:
Mileage: 11.20 kmpl,

Fuel Type: Diesel,

Fuel Tank: 71 Litres,

Engine: 1969 cc,

BHP: 235 PS,

No. of Cylinders: 5,

No. of Gears: 8 Speed.

Verdict:
Volvo XC60 is coming with a sector where the competition is really tough. The Volvo XC60 has fierce Competition from the likes of BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and Lexus NX 300h. However if you want a sporty SUV, look elsewhere, also if you want a Off-roader SUV, this isn't for you either. But yes, if you are looking for a Compact Luxury SUV, this can turn out fantasy SUV for you because of the every reason mentioned earlier. With the kind of equipment it provides and several unique elements, it certainly has the potential to stand apart at a price range below 60 lakhs.