Posted in General | August 31, 2020 

Automotive technology is constantly evolving, and one of the most popular technologies over the last few years is remote start. This technology is quickly and easily installed in any vehicle with remote ignition. For example, search “remote start installation Maryland,” and you will find a number of garages willing to install your system.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Because your vehicle can be started using a remote from inside a building, you can warm your car on cold days and cool it on hot days without going out into the weather. Once the heater or air conditioner kicks in, you can go from a warm house to a warm car.

In addition, if your defroster is on in your vehicle, your windows should defrost while it warms up. This means you don’t have to spend extra time scraping the snow and ice off your windows or trying to see out of a small defrosted peephole while you wait until all your windows defrost.

Safety

Remote start does not require you to leave your key in the car. In fact, if someone gets in your vehicle and presses the break without a key in the ignition, your car will immediately shut off. Your car will also shut off after a specified period of time, so if you take longer or get distracted while your vehicle is warming up, it won’t just continue to run for a long period of time.

Compatibility

Your remote can also be combined with your car alarm, locator, temperature controls and other systems within your vehicle. This allows you to easily locate your car in full parking lots, sound an alarm if you are in danger and control your temperature if you forgot to leave your heat on the night before. It may also be integrated into your smartphone, allowing you access to even more features.

Engine Benefits

When it is especially cold outside, your engine should be warmed up before you drive your vehicle. This is especially true in older and diesel vehicles. Warming the engine allows the oil to fully lubricate your motor, extending its life.

Resale Value

If you plan to sell your vehicle, buyers may see your remote start as an added benefit that they will not have to invest in later. This means, they may be willing to pay more for your car that it is worth. However, be sure to have a professional install the remote start to ensure the product and vehicle warranties remain intact.

If you live in an area with extreme weather shifts, consider purchasing a remote start system for your vehicle.

Posted in General | August 31, 2020 

If you are looking for a new career, getting your commercial driver’s license could give you an opportunity to get into the trucking industry. It is one of the largest and most important ones in the country. Much of the nation’s merchandise and food is transported by trucks. This career gives you the chance to work a lot and make good money. You may even want to consider starting your own transportation company. Here are are few things to think about if you decide to start your own trucking business.

Equipment

You will need to have the right equipment for your hauling service. There are many items you can haul, so you should find a part of the industry that you fit in well. A stronger truck will help you to be able to pull heavier weight. If you ever have a problem with your tractor, you can hire an emergency truck repair company to help you out. If you have multiple trailers, you can offer more services to people.

Hauling

You should figure out what you want to haul. Keep in mind that you may need some endorsements for certain items such as hazardous materials. You can face heavy fines and even loss of your license for hauling something illegally. You should always try to find a load to move no matter where you are. The less time your trailer is empty the better.

Hours

You will find out that truck driving can be a job that requires you to work long hours. The more you drive though, the more money you will be making. If you get loads that require certain delivery dates, you may need to drive all day or night. Keep in mind that you have certain hours that you can drive a day and week which is regulated by the department of transportation.

The trucking industry is not for everyone. It takes commitment and skill to drive a trailer all over the United States.

Posted in General | August 28, 2020 

https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-and-white-car-vehicle-vintage-474/

“It’s making a weird noise”… Is your car trying to tell you something? The mental debate of whether to move on or not can rage for a long time. Know the signs you need a new car, make the decision easily.

Here are some signs you need a new car…

Sign 1: It’s about the driver, not the car…

Often, the choice to get a new car has a lot to do with the driver. Changing cars when there’s nothing physically wrong with it is a good position to be in. No repair bills and an easy trade in or sale. Here’s what we mean:

The size of your car doesn’t match your needs.

This often happens for one of two reasons:

1 – The small car from your younger days won’t accommodate a growing family.

2 – The opposite. The kids have bought their own cars and there are less passengers to transport.

If this is the predicament you find yourself in, it’s time for a new car.

Driving your car becomes more of a chore.

If you think back to when you first bought your current car, you probably looked forward to driving it. Naturally, that feeling wears off but if driving has become a chore that you prefer to avoid, it can be another sign. There’s too much road noise, it’s difficult to drive, you don’t have any modern features and you don’t feel confident in it.

If you don’t like your car, don’t let it get neglected. It’s time for a new car.

Sign 2: The numbers…

The numbers with dollar signs in front to be more specific. If your car is costing you more and more to service and maintain, it’s time to move on. Additionally, if your mechanic keeps telling you things like; “the brakes need doing next time” or “your water pump is on it’s way out”, it may end up costing you more than the value of the car itself. If you took out a car loan to purchase your current vehicle and still owe money on it, talk to a broker – they can find options to suit almost all circumstances.

Money is a big concern when buying and selling cars. Always compare car loans, shop around and do your research on the market prices for your current car and cars you might want to upgrade to.

The resale value is hurting.

If your car is getting older – in years and mileage – have a look online to see what similar examples are selling for. Unfortunately, you might be disappointed. As the odometer increases – especially over 100,000kms, the value of most cars drops considerably. Manufacturers bring out new models with new looks and features, older ones become less desirable.

Sign 3: The Technology is Outdated (or non-existent)…

Maybe you’ve decided your car’s not safe enough anymore. There are a lot of modern driver assist features like adaptive cruise control, auto-emergency braking and lane departure warning to name a few. If you’ve decided your car doesn’t meet modern standards, take it as a sign you need a new car.

Sign 4: It’s Talking to You…

Cars making funny noises are often trying to tell drivers they need repairs and replacements. If you’re hearing knocking, squealing, grinding or scraping – it’s a sign you need a new car or at least a trip to a mechanic.

It’s making weird smells too.

Often this is caused by excessive heat. For example, oil or hydraulic fluid leaking on a hot exhaust or moving parts scraping and rubbing causing friction. As weird smells get worse, smoke from the exhaust is often present – another sign it’s time to get into a new car.

Sign 5: Leaks

If those blobs and stains are increasing where you park your car, it’s another sign. Leaks can mean a number of things – cracked gaskets or frayed and damaged hoses for example. It’s these kinds of repairs that cost a lot in labour.

What’s the answer?

Simply ‘selling your current car and getting a new one’ is far easier said than done. If you know the signs, time should be on your side and you can get your ducks lined up. Check online and make sure you know all the signs it’s time to buy a new car, and what the cost will be. Decide whether to trade in or sell your current car…

Trade in.

Used car dealerships stay in business by making profit on the cars they acquire. Naturally, they’ll try to offer you as less as possible. If you trade your car in, be prepared for a low offer. Dealers might have to repair or a least, touch up your car in order to sell on to someone else.

Private sale.

Generally, if you fancy your negotiating skills, you’ll get a higher price by advertising your car online. Be prepared to have strangers come to your home to inspect the vehicle or alternatively, meet in a car park nearby. If you can wait for the right buyer and deal with strangers coming to ‘kick tyres’, you’ll likely be rewarded with more money.

Getting that new car…

If you’ve read the signs and decided it’s time for a new ride, have a look at all the options: car loans, makes and models, new features and take a few for a test drive. Can’t decide? Make a list of the features that match your driving style and lifestyle and go from there.

Posted in General | August 26, 2020 

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets strict rules for truck drivers. One of the requirements drivers must meet is completing a physical exam at regular intervals.

This exam helps to ensure drivers are healthy and in good enough physical condition to drive safely. The FMCSA sets the standard for the exams.

FMCSA Requirements

According to the FMCSA, DOT physical exams are valid for up to 24 months, but the doctor can require more frequent examination if the driver has specific health conditions that require ongoing monitoring. A driver must use a licensed medical examiner who is on the FMCSA National Registry.

During the exam, the doctor must check the following:

• Vision with color blindness test
• Blood pressure
• Hearing
• Cardiovascular health
• Physical endurance

The doctor must also do a complete review of the driver’s medical history, assess any medications he or she takes, and complete a urinalysis to check for underlying medical issues during DOT physical exams Rockville MD.

A driver must have at least 20/40 vision, a blood pressure of less than 140/90, a good range of motion, overall physical fitness, and the ability to climb and conduct physical duties of the job. Any medications the driver takes cannot affect the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

The driver must also disclose all details about his or her medical history, including any ongoing conditions, diabetes, sleep disorders, substance abuse issues, epilepsy, and surgeries.

Exceptions

It is possible to pass the DOT physical exam with certain health conditions, but it does require securing an exemption. Drivers may secure exemptions for:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Seizures

It does require completing the exemption paperwork, including providing driving records, employment history, medical exams, and driving experience reports.

Wrap Up

The DOT physical exam is not optional. To secure a CDL in any state, a driver must complete the exam and pass it within FMCSA standards.

Posted in General | August 21, 2020 

The air conditioning in your vehicle is critical during hot weather to ensure that you, your passengers and your items are not overheated while riding in the cabin. When it starts to malfunction, the culprit is usually the air compressor or related belts and there are two main signs that it needs to be fixed, loud knocking sounds or warm air when you turn the A/C on.

Knocks When A/C Is Running

Knocks while the A/C is on, or a loud squealing when you try to turn it on, are common sounds from a failing system. If you hear a squeal, watch the compressor in action to see if the belt snaps or fails to move, or if the pulley is seized. The first two can indicate that the belt is too loose and needs to be replaced while a seized pulley means that you need a new compressor. Knocking sounds means that the compressor is failing, and its vanes are sending powdery dust through the rest of your system. In this case, shut off the A/C until you can get car care near Lake Stevens WA for a replacement, so your filters are not clogged.

Air Conditioning Not Cold

Sometimes you can hear knocking or squealing while the air is still getting cold. Other times, there will be no noise from the compressor or related parts, but the A/C is not producing cold air. This is usually a sign that you have a coolant leak. You can take your car to a mechanic to find the leak, or purchase test kits to do it yourself. If there is a leak between the compressor and pulley or in the compressor case, the unit needs replacement.

The most obvious sign that the A/C compressor in your vehicle needs to be replaced is that it stops producing cold air but knocking or squealing can mean that it is not working properly. When the A/C goes out due to malfunctioning parts, it can be uncomfortable for passengers and harmful for the rest of the system.

Posted in General | August 1, 2020 

As a car owner, you most likely want your car to last you for as long as possible. Many people need a reliable car to get to and from work every day, and the key to keeping your car functional is maintenance. While no car is built to last forever, you can greatly extend your vehicle’s longevity by having oil changes and tire rotations, keeping up with manufacturer recalls and going through a car wash on a regular basis.

Have Oil Changes and Tire Rotations

If you never change the oil in your vehicle, your engine will give out on your car long before it should. Most cars need an oil change every 3,000-10,000 miles. You should always follow your manufacturer’s recommendation for how often this should be done. Tire rotation is also an important part of making a car run smoothly, and you can have this done at the same time as an oil change.

Keep up With Manufacturer Recalls

From time to time, auto parts Apopka have to be replaced due to manufacturer recalls. It is important that you take your vehicle to a dealership to get these needed repairs done as soon as you are aware of them for the safety of yourself and your passengers.

Go Through a Car Wash

While keeping your car clean may not have a direct correlation with how long it lasts, it can make you feel a lot better about what you drive. You do not want your car to look like it has literally been dragged through the mud on a daily basis. When you keep your car’s interior and exterior clean, you will be more satisfied with your daily drive.

When you follow these simple and practical tips, you can be on your way to making your car last as long as possible.

Posted in General | August 1, 2020 

Many people like to accessorize the things that they own, especially when it comes to vehicles. There are so many upgrades you can make. If you have a truck, you may want to customize it to your liking. Owning something unique can turn heads as you are driving down the road. Here are a few ways to add style to your truck.

Height

When it comes to a truck, you may want to change how tall it is. The model will determine what route you go. Some people may like to lower the body of it and have it close to the ground. This is popular for small bodies and two-wheel-drive pickups. If you have a large body and like to off-road, getting a lift kit can help you gain clearance from the ground.

Rims

The style of your rims could be affected by the tires you choose. A bigger rim can be harder to install if you do not have the clearance within the wheel well. Make sure the tires do not rub, or it can cause damage to the vehicle. If you like a fatter tire, a smaller rim can look good.

Power

The performance of your truck is important. If you use it for work, you probably want it to have a lot of power. You can add a part like a 7.3 powerstroke turbo. When you have added horsepower, you can also tow trailers a little bit easier. Many people like the versatility a pickup has when it comes to strength and being comfortable when driving such a heavy thing.

Body

You could stick to changing minor details or go all out when upgrading the body of your truck. They make body kits that can transform the way it looks. There are options that allow you to have a streamlined look or more of a straight-edged appearance. The hood can also affect the demeanor the vehicle gives off. Some have vents in them that can let fresh air into the motor to give it more power.

Interior

The inside of your truck is where you will spend most of your time while in it. Adding speakers and lights are a few of the more popular accessories that you could install inside. Many people like to add seat covers to protect the inside upholstery as well.

One of the best ways to have a nice-looking truck is to keep up with its maintenance. Adding small details as you go can make a big difference for the finished product.

Posted in General | July 31, 2020 

A car wash business can be an attractive option for an entrepreneur who wants an in-demand business that can be run with just a few employees. These four tips can help you get your new business off to a strong start.

1. Get Professional Help

Whether you are purchasing an existing car wash or building a new one, you will want to make sure that your equipment is properly installed and in good working order. A car wash repair technician near me can inspect and repair the existing equipment or assist with installing new equipment. You can only make money if your equipment is functioning properly, so it is a good idea to establish a regular maintenance schedule. 

2. Choose a Good Location

Factors to consider when choosing the location for your business or evaluating an existing location include competition, traffic patterns, visibility from the street, accessibility, nearby businesses and environmental concerns. A location with a lot of traffic and few or no nearby competitors could be ideal, but you will want to make sure that it is not too much of a hassle for drivers to get in and out of the location, otherwise you may not get much business from people driving by. Also, look for nearby businesses that may have customers or employees who may drop in. 

3. Do Your Research

Before you make a purchase, you need to educate yourself about the industry. Study what successful car wash owners are doing and figure out ways you can imitate them. Attend trade shows and learn about the latest technology and trends. Do some market research and find out what customers are looking for and what could get them to choose your car wash over someone else’s. Learn about the different types of car washes and their advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you know what the city, state and federal laws are that may affect your operations.

4. Make a Business Plan

Before you commit any resources to the project, you need to have a plan in place. Your plan should include your projected costs, your operational plans and your short and long term goals for the business. Your business plan will be critical for securing financing.

If you are interested in starting a car wash or purchasing an existing car wash, these four tips can help you be successful. A little planning can help you avoid a lot of potential problems before they occur.

Posted in General | July 29, 2020 

If you are looking to start investing, there are many different ways to get involved. To get you started, consider looking into the world of real estate. Follow this guide for a brief introduction to the process of investment real estate. 

Getting Started 

Are you looking for a challenge? Real estate investing is a difficult field with lots of unique challenges. If you are interested in learning about and understanding how the housing market works, this is a great opportunity. Once you decide to purchase, keep the after repair value, or ARV, in mind. This number will help you determine how much you want to spend to ensure you don’t overpay. Finally, pay attention to what kind of property you are purchasing as this affects your next step. 

Repairing Your Property  

After purchasing the property, you need to start working on the necessary updates and repairs. Depending on the type of property, how you proceed can change. For example, in a condo, there is an association or board that will manage shared amenities, whereas, in a single-family home you will bear most responsibilities including dealing with the HOA. As you maintain your investment property, be sure to check in on the updates and follow-up with any issues.  

Making the Sale  

Once the repairs have been completed, your property is ready, and you can decide how you wish to proceed. Most often, investors choose to turn the property into a rental space allowing for a continued income source. This income can then be allocated towards your next investment. As you decide, think about how the market is doing and whether it is more valuable to sell or rent out the property. No matter what you chose to do, take the time to make sure it is right for you.   

You’re going to love the excitement and challenges of real estate investment. 

Posted in General | July 29, 2020 

Whether you just want a little pick me up, or are looking for ways to improve your mood overall, there can be many reasons to seek natural mood boosters. If you’re looking for a way to feel a little happier in a way that’s natural, here are a few things to consider. 

Take a Mood-Boosting Supplement

One easy way to help boost your mood and start feeling better today is to try some mood-boosting supplements. Sometimes, for those that may have a nutrient deficiency, a multivitamin full of energizing nutrients like vitamin C and B complex could do the trick. If you’re getting the nutrition you need, however, other supplements like KratoMystic or adaptogens like maca root could help provide the mood improvement you’re looking for. 

Eat a Mood-Boosting Diet

Along with supplements, eating a diet that supports your mood can be beneficial, as well. What many don’t realize is that foods and drinks that they think will boost their mood, like caffeine or sugar, for example, can actually make your mood worse when you crash. By eating healthy foods high in omega 3 fatty acids like salmon, or foods that help with hormone balance, like apples and carrots, you can help boost your mood more permanently, in a stable way. 

Work Out and Increase Happiness Hormones

Supplements and diet aren’t the only things that can boost mood, exercising regularly can increase happiness hormones in your system, like serotonin. When it comes to working out, the good news is that it doesn’t always matter what kind of workout you do, as long as you get your body moving for at least 15 to 20 minutes a day. 

Whether you want a temporary pick me up occasionally, or are looking to improve your mood overall, there can be many simple solutions to accomplish your goals. By doing things like eating a balanced diet and getting regular exercise, you can improve your mood the natural way.