Discount Replacement Parts

The destruction of hundreds of thousands of vehicles in the March 11 tsunami has brought a cruel arithmetic of supply and demand to the disaster area, as some used car dealers are gouging buyers.

There are even reports of so-called “disaster survivor prices,” while empty lots in tsunami-ravaged areas like Rikuzentakata, Iwate Prefecture, are filling with rows of used cars on offer by absentee sellers. The situation is being further exacerbated by a decline in the number of used cars on the market from before the disaster, triggered by a government program to promote low-emission vehicles.

The family of one 47-year-old woman in Rikuzentakata lost all three of its vehicles to the tsunami. Her 21-year-old son bought a car soon after to get to work, but the family has yet to replace their light truck, essential for restarting their tatami business. There is a 2004 model light truck with some 50,000 kilometers on the odometer on offer at a recently reopened dealership — for 700,000 yen plus, or more than an entry level Suzuki light truck costs new.

“We can’t get back on our feet without a truck,” the woman laments.

According to the local representative of a major car dealership company, the firm now has about 70 percent fewer used vehicles on its lots compared to before the disaster, and prices of used light trucks have risen by 150,000 to 200,000 yen. A former parts shop employee told the Mainichi that “rust-covered cars that would have gone for about 80,000 yen before the tsunami are selling for 200,000 yen!”

Meanwhile, as a dearth of used cars persists at dealerships and prices rise, ad hoc used car lots are beginning to pop up across the city. Nothing marks them as businesses except the surnames and mobile phone numbers of the sellers taped to the cars’ windows. When the Mainichi called one of the numbers, the person on the other end said simply, “I’m not interested in talking to reporters,” and hung up.

“I don’t know any of them,” said 53-year-old Toshiaki Hasegawa, who has been in the car business in Rikuzentakata for some 30 years. “Can they guarantee the vehicles after a sale without being here? Do they even have used car dealer permits?” he continued, shaking his head.

Tsunami survivors from the coast, unable to buy vehicles close to home, have also begun going further inland to look for cars. Discount used car dealer Auto Basho International in Ichinoseki, Iwate Prefecture — about 30 kilometers from Rikuzentakata — says it’s had as many as 15 customers from the coast per day, most looking for light vehicles up to 200,000 yen. However, even joining automotive auctions in Tokyo, the dealership has only been able to purchase about three vehicles at that price per day, apparently due to a nation-wide shortage.

The Japan Used Car Dealers Association, with about 10,000 member dealerships nationwide, told the Mainichi that it has received numerous complaints from disaster survivors claiming they’re being gouged. “It would appear that these cases aren’t just from rises in market prices, but that there are some malicious dealers out there,” the association stated.

According to the association, a combination of people holding off on replacing cars after the 2008 Lehman Shock and increasing numbers of older cars scrapped when the government was offering subsidies for low-emissions vehicles has led to the number of used vehicles on the market dropping from some 8.87 million in 2008 to 6.53 million in 2010. The association also said that, with the March 11 quake and tsunami cutting into vehicle production and limiting supplies of new cars, there is little prospect for growth in the number of used cars coming onto the market via trade-in.

Article source: http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/20110511p2a00m0na013000c.html

Honda Cars Philippines Inc is not considering price increases soon amid tight supplies of parts in the country in the aftermath of the disasters in Japan.

Mr Tatsuya Natsume newly appointed Honda Philippines president said in a press that “Everything is very unstable at the moment so we decided not to increase prices.”

Data from Honda showed that the current price of the City ranges from P691,000 to P821,000; Civic at P883,000 to P988,000; CRV at P1.275 million to P1.525 million; Accord at P1.68 million to P2.03 million and Jazz at P752,000 to P857,000. Mr Natsume did not discount the possibility that there could be price increases once production and supply normalized.

Mr Natsume said Honda’s Sta Rosa that Laguna plant had reduced its production volume by half since April this year due to the limited supply of parts and components from Japan.

He said that “Even at reduced volume we have to continue. Because once we stop, suppliers and dealers will also stop [their.”

Honda said it would closely monitor the supply situation and try to resume normal production operations at the soonest possible time.

Voltaire Gonzales head of sales department said the Sta Rosa plant had been on a six day workweek operations and maintained its workforce.

He said the plant had been producing 30 to 40 units daily and prioritizing the production of City and Jazz to meet their respective monthly targets of 700 and 250 units. He warned that demand would exceed supply in June. He also said that Honda had received 3,218 City and Jazz out of 5,468 defective units as of May 2 after the company announced a voluntary safety recall in February this year.

The recall aims to replace lost motion springs and retainers with countermeasure parts distributed from September 2008 to April 2010. Natsume said almost 90% of the replacement parts had arrived in the country. The company expects to finish the recall in June.

(Sourced from www.manilastandardtoday.com)

Article source: http://www.steelguru.com/international_news/Honda_prices_stay_despite_tight_supply/203642.html

Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep, the leading dealer serving Fairfield Chrysler drivers, services the 2011 Chrysler 300. Fairfield Chrysler shoppers looking for a new vehicle should check out Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep’s selection of 2011 Chrysler 300 models today.

Athens, TX– (SBWIRE) — 04/25/2011 — The service center at Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep, a trusted dealership among Fairfield Chrysler owners, can do any repair, big or small, to the new 2011 Chrysler 300 Series of sedans.

The Fairfield Chrysler dealer’s repair center delivers a full range of different services to 2011 Chrysler 300 drivers who need to get their vehicle fixed. The Chrysler trained and certified technicians can deliver such services as brake repairs, auto body and collision repairs, front end alignments, oil changes, radiator flushes, air conditioning repairs, timing belt repairs and transmission repairs.

Fairfield Chrysler drivers can benefit from the changing service specials that Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep has to offer. One current special that is taking place at the dealership is an oil change discount for $29.95, which consists of up to 5 quarts of top of the line motor oil, an inspection for leaks and an oil filter replacement. This special is only around until April 30th, so 2011 Chrysler 300 owners should bring their vehicle in for an oil change as soon as possible.

Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep’s service center uses actual Chrysler parts when working on Chrysler models. Chrysler owners can bring their vehicle in for a quick fix or leave it for a long repair on Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays starting at 8 a.m. up until 3 p.m.

2011 Chrysler 300 for Sale to Fairfield Chrysler Enthusiasts

New car shoppers can find great selection of 2011 Chrysler 300 sedans at Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep. Drivers will benefit from the vehicle’s EPA estimated fuel economy of up to 27 mpg highway and 18 mpg city, front and side curtain airbags, seat-mounted side airbags and electronic stability control with all-speed traction control and brake assist.

Popular options for the 2011 Chrysler 300 Series consist of Uconnect® voice command technology, a blind spot monitoring system, a rear cross path detection system, Sirius satellite radio, a ParkSense® front and rear parking assist system, a navigation system and keyless remote startup system.

Fairfield Chrysler owners who need any repair from an oil change and fluid check to an engine overhaul done on their vehicle should schedule a service appointment with Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep by calling them at 800-611-3401 or visiting their Web site at http://www.elderdodge.com.

About Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep
The Elder Jeep Dodge Chrysler is proud to serve Athens with quality Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles. With models like the Aspen, Ram 1500, Challenger, Commander and Grand Cherokee, the dealership carries something for every taste and need.

Elder Jeep Dodge Chrysler is more than Athens’ leading Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep dealership. The dealership also provides a full line of services, including car repairs performed by expert mechanics, auto parts and car loans.

Contact Elder Chrysler Dodge Jeep:
1798 East Highway 31
Athens, TX 75751
800-611-3401
http://www.elderdodge.com

Article source: http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/sbwire-89087.htm

Who’s to blame for break-downs?

For years I have lived with the fear that my wife’s car would break down. Yes, mechanics have car problems, too.

Money was tight when we started off so we drove old cars. Heaven help me if that sucker ever let her down – I would never hear the end of it. Come to think of it neither would the poor tow truck drivers I would send to rescue her.

The Mechanic: making the grade.

I learned early on in my career that break-downs are often the mechanic’s fault. I didn’t design it, build it or sell it. It wasn’t me who didn’t have the time to service it, and it wasn’t me who broke the thing in the first place. Cars do wear out. So, how’s that my fault?

In reality, most failures after repairs are usually related to faulty parts (new parts do fail). When arranging car repairs, don’t be shy; ask what the warranty policy is on the replacement parts and workmanship, and how repairs are to be handled if there is a failure.

Most shops have very liberal warranty policies; however, some don’t. One more thing: why do most customers ask for a “discount” on parts? I tried asking for a discount at a local big box store and they threw me out!

By the way, I bought my wife a new car. Now she can blame the dealer if it breaks down.

Q: When I stop at a red light with the transmission in drive and my foot is on the brake, the car vibrates and sometimes shakes outright. There are times when the engine stalls. I recently had a “tune-up” to see if it would help and the car does run better but it did not solve this problem. There are times when it vibrates only slightly but most of the time, it vibrates quite a bit, enough to see the hood shaking. Do you know what the problem is and what might be causing it?

A: It sounds as if the engine is not running on all cylinders. The problem could be as simple as a spark plug that is fouled or more serious such as a sticking valve. Have a dynamic compression test performed. This test cuts out individual cylinders and measures the load they are sharing. The results will lead you to the next step.

Dave Redinger has more than 40 years’ experience as a mechanic and has run his shop, Doctor H Honda Specialists, in Toronto for the past 26 years. Tune in to Dave’s new shows “Dave’s Corner Garage” on Sun TV and “In the Shop” on Men’s TV. Check local listings.

Article source: http://www.autonet.ca/autos/news/2011/04/11/17952016-autonet.html

Gasoline prices have recently dropped a few cents. That’s the
good news.

But with the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded at
$3.51, AAA Mid-Atlantic has published a list of gasoline
myth-busters.

The automobile trade group warns that cash-strapped and stressed
out motorists should be leery of some fuel conservation and money
saving tips they might receive.

Here are some myths to consider:

- Boycotting filling stations one a day week will cause oil
companies to lower fuel prices.

False. This one makes the rounds via email chains and is the
favorite of Facebook users every time pump prices soar. Unless you
stop driving all together, unless everyone stops driving. In 2009,
Americans used 137.93 billion gallons of gas, AAA said.

- Driving the most fuel efficient car you own will save $4,400
in fuel costs throughout a five-year period.

True. Assuming a car gets 20 mpg and a second car gets 30 mpg
and you drive 15,000 miles annually. With a fuel cost of $3.52 a
gallon, the U.S. Department of Energy says you will save $4,400 in
the next five years.

- Trading in your gas-guzzling SUV or large sedan for a more
fuel-efficient car makes economic sense.

False. Keeping her is cheaper, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic.
Why accumulate more debtn “About 82 percent of new car loans today
have terms of 60 to 77.9 months,” according to J.D. Power and
Associates. The average loan balance owed at trade-in is $4,221,
more than the vehicle is worth.

- Using grocery discount cards to buy gas will not save you
money.

False. Whether you are single, a hermit or married with
children, you have to buy food. The more food you buy, the more you
save at the pump. Some grocery store chains, like Redner’s, offer
10 cents a gallon off for every $100 of food purchases and up to 20
cents off with $200 in purchases.

-  Paying cash at the pump can yield significant discounts.

True. Some stations offer 5 cents off a gallon of gasoline if
you pay cash. Whyn Credit card fees usually account for 2 percent
of a transaction, according to the National Association of
Convenience Stores.

- Premium grade gasoline is better than regular gasoline.

It all depends. Premium costs about 30 cents per gallon more
than regular. However, if your vehicle’s owner’s manual calls for
premium, use it. Not many do, except some high-performance cars. In
1988, 15 percent of cars sold here required premium. Today, premium
gas accounts for only 9 percent of gas sold.

- Turning off your vehicle’s air conditioning will improve fuel
mileage.

False. This one has been a rumor for years. Most cars today are
aerodynamic in shape and design. At highway speeds, air
conditioning can lower greenhouse output. Rolling down a window
will increase the drag on your vehicle, lowering fuel mileage.

- Over-inflating tires or replacing compressed air with nitrogen
will improve fuel mileage.

False. Over-inflating tires does not increase fuel mileage, says
AAA. Tire makers, safety experts and AAA say over-inflation results
in tires wearing more quickly and having less traction. Using
nitrogen, expensive by the way, will keep tire pressure more stable
over the long term, but does not improve fuel mileage.

- A vehicle uses more fuel to shut down/restart than to leave
idle.

False. When a vehicle is running but not moving, you are getting
zero mpg. Additionally, a warm engine uses minimal fuel to shut
down and restart. If you stop for more than a minute, shut off the
engine.

- Hypermilling can improve fuel mileage.

False. The goals of hypermilling are positive, such as
eliminating aggressive driving and saving energy. Unfortunately,
some motorists have taken their desire to improve fuel economy to
extremes with techniques that put themselves and other motorists in
danger. Some of these include cutting off the engine or putting the
transmission in neutral to coast on a roadway, tailgating or
drafting tractor-trailers and rolling through stop signs. With the
engine off, you have no power steering or power brakes.

Myths aside, there are real ways to save fuel, and AutoZone, a
large auto parts retailer, has some time-tested tips to help,
according to AutoZone spokesman Steve Stoll.

- Replace worn out spark plugs which cause poor fuel economy and
engine performance. Most cars today require spark plug replacement
at 100,000 miles, but some manufacturers call for replacement as
low as 30,000 miles. According to the National Car Care Council,
worn spark plugs can cost you up to 2 mpg in fuel economy.

- Clean the vehicle’s fuel system. Fuel system deposits might
cause rough idling, engine hesitation and a decline in fuel
economy. Adding a fuel system cleaner can remove deposits and
restore a vehicle’s performance. Auto expert and author Ray Bohacz
recommends Chevron’s Synthetic Fuel System Cleaner and said it
really works. Most repair shops also have a fuel injection cleaning
machine that thoroughly cleans the fuel injectors by running
solvent through them. Cost varies, but begins at about $100.

- Invest in a new gas cap. A faulty cap could cost you more than
$57 a year due to evaporation. A locking gas cap is a way to ensure
gas tanks are properly sealed and also prevents theft and
siphoning.

-  Keep tires properly inflated. Fuel mileage can improve up to
3.3 percent just by checking the air pressure. Your tires will last
longer too, saving you more money.

George Mattar can be reached at 215-949-4165 or
gmattar@phillyBurbs.com Follow George on Twitter at
mattarmuses@Twitter.com

Copyright 2011 phillyBurbs.com . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Article source: http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/local/courier_times_news/gas-prices-got-you-down-these-tips-should-help/article_6a51db89-d335-5039-97f6-667def26bdf7.html

1 Apr, 2011

Save On Car Insurance With These Small Tips

Written by Demarcus Licursi

The large majority of people out there dread buying car insurance. For this reason, they hurry through it, spending as little time as possible. You can pay for these small mistakes big time in the future.

It pays to slow down, and review the details. Take the time to ask your insurance broker questions that may influence the type of coverages you buy and the amounts you purchase. The information you discover may even prompt you to switch to another auto insurer. Below, we’ll provide five details you should uncover whenever you shop for coverage or renew your policy.

#1 – Which Car Insurance Coverages Do You Need?

Some coverages are mandatory in nearly every province and territory (though the required minimums vary). This is the case with Accident Benefits, third-party liability, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverages. Other coverages are optional. While they are valuable to have in certain circumstances, they eventually cost more than they’re worth. You can drop them, and lower your auto insurance rates.

For example, consider collision and comprehensive coverages. The former covers damage that results from an accident. The latter covers damage from non-accident events, such as a tree that falls on your vehicle. If you drive a new $80,000 BMW 7-Series, carrying collision and comprehensive is a good idea. On the other hand, if you drive a 1997 Toyota Corolla with a market value under $2,500, these coverages may be too expensive.

When do you draw the line on collision and comprehensive? As a general rule, do so when their combined annual cost exceeds 10 percent of your vehicle’s value.

#2 – Are You Driving A “Risky” Vehicle?

Auto insurers in Canada refer to the Canadian Loss Experience Automobile Rating (CLEAR) system when calculating their policyholders’ rates. This is a score that reflects the likelihood your car (based on its make, model, and year) will be part of a claim. It also reflects how costly that claim is likely to be. The CLEAR ratings are based on historical data that has been compiled for years.

It’s worth finding out whether a potential auto insurer considers your vehicle to be “risky.” If it does, your rates will likely be higher than otherwise.

#3 – Discounts For Which You Qualify

Nearly every car insurance company extends discounts to their policyholders. Unfortunately, most policyholders neglect to find out whether they are eligible for them. Examples include discounts for being a good driver, having an alarm system installed in your vehicle, and consolidating your auto and property insurance lines with the same company. These and other standards can reduce your premiums.

A “good driver” discount may be automatically added to your policy (though, don’t assume so). This is because your insurer has access to the information it needs to make this decision. Other discounts will remain unclaimed until you investigate.

#4 – Type Of Replacement Auto Parts Used

Suppose you are involved in an accident during which your car’s alternator sustains damage. It needs to be replaced. Some auto insurance companies will pay for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. These are made by the automaker according to their own specifications. Other insurers will only cover the cost of rebuilt parts, the quality of which may range from good to bad. A poorly-rebuilt alternator might leave you stranded in the future.

Ask your insurer or insurance broker to clarify which type of replacement parts are covered. Keep in mind, OEM parts generally offer higher quality, but cost more. This will likely be reflected in your premiums.

#5 – Are Lower Rates Available Elsewhere?

Never assume your auto insurance company offers the lowest rates. In many cases, competing companies will be able to match your insurer’s quote while offering more extensive coverages. Or, they’ll be able to provide a lower quote altogether. Most consumers simply renew their policies without taking the time to look for lower premiums. Consequently, they pay more than necessary.

If you’re changing your insurance company or you’re switching around your plan, be sure to look at different rates from a few companies. You may find a more affordable package of coverages elsewhere. Few people relish the process of purchasing car insurance. Through discovering several small things, you might be able to save a large sum of money in the long run.

Getting good rates from an auto insurance agent has become more possible in the recent few years. Agents offer even complicated public liability insurance packages if you’re interested.

Article source: http://thebreakingstory.com/personal-finance/save-on-car-insurance-with-these-small-tips/785.html

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CarPart4U.com offers a 12% discount plus free shipping on orders above $150 with coupon code “SPRING11″.

City of Industry, CA (Vocus/PRWEB) March 31, 2011

CarPart4u.com’s celebrates spring by launching a sale to rival all sales for car enthusiasts and automobile shops. Get 12% off on final purchases of projector headlights, intake fuel systems, exterior styling accessories, car gauges, catalytic converters, and other automobile parts and accessories with Carpart4u.com’s Spring Sale. For orders worth $150 and above, customers can receive a hefty discount plus free shipping just by entering coupon code “SPRING11” upon checkout.

CarPart4u.com’s extensive range of car parts also include replacement headlights, cold air intake systems, fuel pressure regulators, intercooler piping, and engine management systems. Car enthusiasts who prefer buying in bulk can avail of CarPart4u’s vast array of styling products both for exterior and interior parts. Among the accessories available are car grills, fender vents, and interior chrome trims. As a source of aftermarket auto parts, CarPart4u guarantees to provide anything car lovers and automobile shop owners need.

Don’t forget to check out the Popular Items featured on the homepage of CarPart4u.com. Headlights currently being featured are Spyder Projector Headlights for Pontiac and Chevy, starting at a price of $43.80. Xtune HID Conversion Kits are also available for $89.00.

CarPart4u.com offers car parts and accessories at competitive prices. With savings up to 60%, car products are available at lower costs because CarPart4u is able to obtain headlights and other automobile accessories and parts in huge volumes. Additionally, the headlights distributor vouches for the quality and price of its products by offering a lower price guarantee, challenging clients to find products for less for up to 30 days from the date of purchase to obtain a refund.

Visit CarPart4U.com’s official website or check out the company’s official blog for the latest automobile industry news.

About CarPart4U.com

Based in City of Industry, CA, CarPart4U.com is a wholesaler of car parts and accessories. With top quality products such as headlights, tail lights, light bulbs, car systems, and styling accessories to name a few, CarPart4U.com backs all its products with a low price guarantee and free shipping in the 48 states. Press release produced by Cybertegic.com – an internet marketing services agency that specializes in search engine optimized press release marketing (SEO marketing).

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Article source: http://www.prweb.com/releases/headlights/spring11/prweb8250099.htm