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.