Honda Accord Not IPhone Ready
July 7, 2010 by Windy Reigns · Leave a Comment
A short time ago, I test drove a new V-6 Honda Accord Coupe. The new, standard tech upgrades at my disposal: hands-free Bluetooth, XM Radio, a 270-watt audio system, were amazing and enough safety features (18 to be exact) to make any passenger feel protected and safe. While I enjoyed the power of Honda's 271 hp, 3.5 L, iVTEC engine, and the sportier look of the coupe model, I immediately felt that something was missing-an iPhone/iPod connection/auxiliary jack.
Yes, I know it sounds picky but it would be in the best interest of Honda to make an iPhone/iPod connection the standard or at least add an aux. jack considering that 51 million people have an iPhone and another 260 million other people have an iPod. The iPhone 3GS, Apple's current iPhone model, can play music over a Bluetooth connection, but the Hands Free Link system in the Accord does not play music over Bluetooth. The system only allows phone features to be used. One may contend, "well, just use a CD or the radio, or even, the XM Radio, a standard feature in the Accord!" However, with digital media now the norm it should be possible for Accord owners to carry and connect their complete music library to Honda's 270-watt stereo system.
While XM Radio is impressive, it simply cannot compete with a customized digital library. Sure an MP3 CD can be personalized to hold 120-150 songs depending on the bit rate, but this is no comparison to the thousands of songs that can be stored on the iPhone or iPod.
Of course, Accord owners can buy a third party iPhone/iPod system for the Accord, but this requires that the dashboard and stereo system to be altered. An LCD screen must be attached to the dashboard and the iPod car kit system is run through the stereo. The end result detracts from the original beauty of the Accord panel display and worst of all, removes value from the Accord. Accord owners do have the option of purchasing iPhone/iPod to FM transmitters. The transmitter plays music through an vacant radio station and connects to the bottom of an iPhone or iPod. However, even the "top end" transmitters like Belkin and Griffin, provide sound quality similar to playback from a Walkman CD player without "shock technology". Music tends to stop when traveling on bumpy roads, over potholes or even if the transmitter is touched. . What was more annoying was the muffled, often fuzzy sound of my music. Despite the Accord's exceptional stereo system, the FM transmitters managed to transform my 256kpbs ACC files into ordinary playback sound quality that resembled ringtones on my phone-rendering this technology inadequate.
The lack of iPhone/iPod connectivity can be a letdown but it may not be enough to discourage a customer from purchasing a new Honda Accord Coupe. Accord owners do have options if they would like to listen to music through the stereo system, but features available in iPhone/iPod fitted automobiles such as, direct access and choice of songs, artists and custom playlists are not accessible. Maybe Honda will catch up with iPhone/iPod technology in their 2011 and 2012 models still to be released, but for now new Accord owners will have to settle for the factory equipment provided.
Written by Windy Reigns: San Bernardino County Dodge Dealer, Kansas City Infiniti Dealers
Tags: auto technology, Automotive, autos, car audio, car dealers, car technology, Cars, iphone, new cars, vehiclesRelated posts
GPS Zumo 550
July 2, 2010 by Joe Kidson · 1 Comment
It's not so easy to navigate when you're riding a big motorcycle because of risks involved, and then there is the stopping on the highway and then taking out the map to look into what your location is.
With the Garmin Zumo 550, you can take many of these concerns away. This quality designed unit is not created for a motorcycle, but for the motorcyclist. The touch screen allows the biker to operate the device even while riding since the icons are really large, so you can still use it even while using gloves.
The Garmin Zumo 550 is produced to be used as a GPS unit on a motorcycle and is one of only two GPS units designed for this purpose.
You can attach the Garmin Zumo 550 to your motorcycle with either a u-bolt mount or a clutch mount - which ever one you wish to use. These units are portable small considering (4.8 inches by 3.9 inches) and light (10.6 ounces), making it ideal for use on your motorcycle.
The Zumo 550 meets IPX7 standards, which means it can endure immersion in water for around thirty minutes. One unique feature is to be able to choose the size of icons, and that is either standard or large.
Motorcycle GPS navigation as with car GPS systems, are now becoming a necessity for bikers who would like to go for long rides without going off tracks.
Unlike a car GPS, a motorbike GPS navigation system has some other features for bikers too. If you're reading the screen on a sunny day, it's really hard.
But today there are units which can be mounted on the bike's handlebars that are vibration resistant, which is an issue for bikers unlike car drivers. It has integrated speakers so that you can hear clearly the directions through the Bluetooth technology so which allows you to keep the eye steady on the road you are traveling.
A daytime display, basically gives you a yellow background and night time gives you a dark background. On the screen you can keep the compass up and it reads out speed, the elevation and the accuracy is now within 21 feet of anywhere across the globe and the exact time of day.
The other thing it does, is it pops up a little icon, the little fuel icon and if you touch it, it can tell you the nearest gas stations by brand name, address and anything else you need.
Looking to find the best deal on Garmin Zumo Motorcycle GPS, then visit us to find the best advice on Garmin Zumo Motorcycle GPS for you.
Tags: Automotive, autos, car, eletronics, global positioning system, gps, technologyRelated posts
Donating Your Automobile Supports Charity Organizations
June 19, 2010 by Sam Stout · Leave a Comment
There are many ways to support one's favorite charity. Donating one's time and resources is always welcome. People can give money, food and used items like shoes, clothes and furniture. Donating a car is another thing they can do, and get a tax deduction in the process.
Charitable organizations do not discriminate. They will accept not just cars, but other types of vehicles as well, like trucks and vans. Old, unused or even damaged cars can be donated and put to good use. Some vehicles may be unsuitable for driving, but their parts can be sold and the proceeds used for other projects.
People who cannot afford to buy their own means of transportation are the main beneficiaries of a car donation charity. They are given old but running cars or repaired cars, so they can drive to work and access shops and schools. Being mobile is important especially for those living in areas far from public transportation routes.
Some vehicles may be beyond repair and can only be sold for parts and scrap metal. This does not mean that they cannot be used to benefit other people in need. Charitable organizations can use the proceeds of the sale to fund other projects.
For the owners, a car donation charity is not their only option for disposing their old, unused or damaged vehicles. They can repair and sell the vehicles themselves, or they can trade them in a dealership. Both cases require a significant investment of time and effort for the owners.
For instance, even if they can fix a car for resale, they would still need to put up ads, answer inquiries and try to strike an agreement with prospect after prospect. Trading a car in a dealership involves fewer hassles, but they may never be sure that they are getting a fair price. Donating them to charity on the other hand is a simple transaction, making owners eligible for a corresponding tax break.
Donors should make sure to document the fair market value of their vehicle. The tax deduction is equivalent to this value, unless the charity sells the vehicle for a lower price, in which case, the selling price becomes the tax-deductible amount. For example, a $1500 car sold for $1000 entitles the donor to a $1000 off in their taxes.
Donating a car or other types of vehicles is a generous way of showing support to a deserving charity. By being able to provide other families their own transportation or giving the charity another means to fund projects, donors are making a difference in other people's lives, whether they know it or not. Getting a tax break is just icing on the cake.
If you have an automobile that may not sell for much, consider looking into donating an automobile to one of the many charities in your city or town. Finding a car donation charity is worthwhile and will work as a deduction on your taxes.
Tags: Automotive, autos, charity, donation, Finance, general, government, non-profit, philanthropy, society, taxes, vehiclesRelated posts
Auto Repair Keeping You On The Road
June 10, 2010 by Adriana Noton · Leave a Comment
There are so many of us today who have to have auto repair done on our cars during the life of the vehicle. With the variety of models the costs for getting the repairs done, replacing parts and getting maintenance done can vary. Since the mainstream number of people are spending their time driving on highways and city streets its usually unavoidable for your car to need service.
For getting repairs done there is a good variety of Auto service centers to get the auto repair done that's needed for your car or truck. In general you will know how long you will have to anticipate how long you will be waiting once you do stop in to your local repair mechanic. IN the case you are expected to have more than just some routine repairs done you know be given a good time frame for completion of the repairs.
When there is a need to order some engine parts or other miscellaneous wires for repairs it can be tiring. Nonetheless you will get the help you need to understand what needs to be done a from the service staff from your local Garage with less to worry about. To save you some more money its usually a very good idea to shop around and get some price quotes for comparison.
Complications with your car are made simpler with computer diagnostics hooked up to your car or truck. Connected effortlessly to your Automobiles main computer it can point out any existing problems. Once this diagnostic is made you can go ahead and if needed order a replacement part or have a repair made.
There are plenty of ways to keep your car on the road and not in repair shop. Routine maintenance is also a good idea in addition to having regular checkups done such as changing the oil and filters. Depending on the age of your vehicle you can change out the spark plugs for optimum performance every couple years.
Damage prevention when you are driving on the road its vital to make sure the tire pressure is enough for the type of car you are driving. The tire thread is also a very important thing to check routinely to prevent a possible accident. With the colder weather in the north with icing streets you could be more prone to accidents and get a huge repair bill in the event of a incident.
Before purchasing your next vehicle make sure to do some research to find out about what it costs on a yearly basis for basic maintenance and repairs. Many of the imports are generally more expensive to maintain than domestics cars and trucks so they are in many cases preferred. Depending on your location you might notice a larger number of domestic cars due to the simple fact they are usually cheaper to own.
Everyone loves to get on the open road and get to their destination quickly and safely. Many times the need to have your car repaired is not a choice. However with the large selection of Automotive Mechanics to choose from you can ensure you not only save money but time. Expand the life of your car with good routine maintenance to prevent having repairs done often and keep your auto repair bill to the minimum saving you cash.
Looking to receive some auto repair for your car? Then contact your local auto service specialists for everything from painting jobs to collision services!
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The Best Synthetic Motor Oil is Amsoil. Why?
May 5, 2010 by John Jackson · 1 Comment
The producers of one of the best synthetic motor oils is a pioneer company that has been in the trade since 1972, Amsoil. One year or 25,000 miles between oil changes is the Amsoil guarantee, unlike your neighborhood oil change chain (3 months or 3,000 miles).
These best synthetic motor oils are resistant to extreme temperatures and thus do not form sludge deposits in the motor unlike petroleum motor oils. The motor remains clog free and oil flow is continuous, thereby preventing any wear and tear and hence lowers maintenance costs. These days most of the high performance cars come filled with synthetic oil from the factory like Chevrolet Corvette and Dodge Viper.
Compared to petroleum oils these lubricants provide an improved overall performance. Synthetic base stock and other additives are used in the manufacturing of one of the best synthetic motor oils. These oils are completely compatible with the seal materials and so will not cause any leaks.
Amsoil, a reputable oil manufacturing company recognized by the API, uses high performance synthetic base oils like poly alphaoliefin and appropriate additives for producing the best synthetic motor oil. It can be used in any vehicle as it is compatible with both gasoline and diesel engines. Because they maintain and lubricate the engine so well, it is a must jet engine and turbo charged engines. No other conventional or petroleum motor oil can retain its properties and lubrication at such high temperatures.
No wonder these are called the best synthetic motor oils, they can reduce oil consumption. Engines treated with Amsoil synthetic oil do not need as much maintenance as yearly or 25,000 mile changes are recommended. This helps reduce the environmental effect as a small portion of oil can foul gallons of clean water.
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Tags: 4 wheelers, automobiles, Automotive, autos, motor home, motorcycles, rvs, trucksRelated posts
Going Camping In An RV
April 18, 2010 by Bob Baxter · 3 Comments
RV camping is something that has been happening for years. Families have created many lasting memories from these excursions and a lot of them are shared through the generations. It is still a very popular way for people to get away now.
Pioneers were thought to be the first RVers but that is debatable. How much fun would they have had when they were looking for water or avoiding snakes? They probably did have a bit of fun, but survival was the main goal for them. It was not nearly the same thing as it is today.
Families are being found in campgrounds more often these days. Many times there are large family groups that are RV camping together in a kind of reunion sort of way. This is a great thing to see as the togetherness of families seems to get left behind over the course of time.
To enjoy an RV camping trip the first thing a person needs is an RV. There are many different types that a person can choose from, and it can be affordable if you take the time to look around. If you are handy at fixing things you may find one that just needs a bit of work.
Other than the actual investment of the trailer the costs can vary from campsite to campsite. There are tons of campgrounds around to choose from though. It all depends on what you are wanting from the campsite on what the cost will be. Hydro sites tend to cost more, but if you look around they too can be found at reasonable rates.
If you are a true camper you may choose to do it the old fashioned way. This means that you will want a campsite without the luxury of hydro. There are still a lot of people that are doing this nowadays, believe it or not. They find it a way to get back to reality and in touch with nature and the things immediately around them. There are still a lot that can be enjoyed even without hydro. Think of the fishing and cooking over an open campfire and the fun that can be had.
The United States and Canada have a huge amount of campsites that people can choose from when planning the RV camping trip they want. Many offer lots of extra things that can help to entertain children, like playgrounds and beaches. Maybe you need to rent a boat for fishing; there are many that provide this service as well. No matter what it is that you want from the campsite you can find one that will be a source of great fun for you and your family.
Once you have decided on the destination that you want, look on the internet and see what is out there for campsites. They can all be reserved online with no hassles at all. But the sites do book fast and there are even some that are booked up to a year in advance. Once you find one that you like you may choose to make it the annual spot to go enjoy your RV camping excursion.
If you want to buy an RV, but don't want to break your piggy bank, hurry and check out these RV trailers for sale, where you can find lots of low priced RV's for sale. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service
Tags: auto and trucks, Automotive, autos, camping, outdoors, rvs, travel, vehiclesRelated posts
Finding Automobile Insurance Rates
March 27, 2010 by Said Theabeit · Leave a Comment
Individuals seem to change their lifestyle options as they mature. For example, an individual tries to maintain a sedentary lifestyle when his or her body begins to show a sign of breaking down. We set aside monetary funds for our medical bills instead of saving for a vacation.
In this type of situation, it is very surprising that we do not put the same effort into concern for our automobiles.
It is important to keep in mind that your vehicle depreciates in value the instant you drive it off the car lot. The blue book value is known to decrease to nothing at a certain point in its short lifespan and because of this selling your car down the road is known as receiving a profit.
The question that we should always ask ourselves is, "Do we really want to put monetary funds out to insure a vehicle which you would not even consider to fix if it were in a bad accident?"
Because Florida has the third highest number of drivers on the road in the country (12,905,813) and approximately 23% of these drivers are uninsured, most auto insurance companies and state insurance departments recommend carrying higher amounts than the minimum requirements.
If you just renew your automobile insurance policy without checking around and just agreeing to the same old rates that you had before might not be such a great idea. Keep in mind that the correct way of implementing these actions will depend on the exact personal circumstances. It is quite a simple process nowadays. Due to the luxury of the Internet, you have a vast amount of tools available at your fingertips to assist in getting you numerous different automotive insurance quotes.
There are always new ways to save money, but this secret method of finding cheap auto insurance is unbeatable. You'll find the competition for your business is pretty fierce online and you'll be able to save yourself quite a few bucks by comparing the rates of many different insurance agencies all at once.
Note: The state of Florida has strict laws about whom you do business with. If you are a Florida resident and your car is registered in the state of Florida, you must purchase an automobile insurance policy through an insurance company that is licensed to sell car insurance in the state of Florida. If you purchase an auto insurance policy from an unlicensed out-of-state insurance provider, the state of Florida will not honor the policy. In addition, new Florida residents are prohibited from maintaining an existing policy that has been issued in their previous state of residence.
Said owns the automobile insurance rates site where readers can get a good automobile insurance rate.
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An Introduction To Lexus IS 250c
March 26, 2010 by Danny Green · Leave a Comment
The Lexus IS is a series of compact executive cars sold by Lexus since 1999. It was launched as an entry-level, and it was formerly sold under the Toyota Altezza, nameplate in Japan before the overture of the Lexus brand. Lexus has established top levels for vehicle steadfastness, and customer service in independent surveys. It falls among the most legendary brands for the last two decade in the industry of finest automobile manufacturing.
With the advent of Lexus IS 250C, Lexus has made a brand new addition to its line of luxurious cars, an introduction, which has been very well received by the public. This model will surely surprise everyone. Its sale has been initiated in the market in order to compete with other firms, and it surely has an edge above the others.
It is a savvy-adaptable model that allocates greater appearance. The outlook of the car has undergone meticulous designing to give it a sleeker front, and rear. The result is a car with an exclusive design. Lexus IS 250 is a two-door four-seat luxury adaptable with a three-piece retractable hardtop that withdraws in 20 seconds.
The interior is equally impressive as the exterior. The seats ensure greater adjustment, and they are very comfortable. The car is designed keeping in view the greater safety of the driver as well as the passengers. Talking from the security perspective, this car is a great prelude for those who are speed fanatics. This new model is designed to reduce the crash impact, and it has four safety airbags. The electronic stability control quality is an added feature in this car.
Its noise diminution is another huge aspect of this car. The car can start with just a little touch. This model is also popular for its amazing satellite routing system, for which numerous efforts have been made to make it work faster, and in an improved manner.
Great sound is provided by the Mark Levinson speaker system, which works well, even despite the rooftop of the car being detached. A new invention has to have something that makes it superior to those prior to its introduction. One such part of the Lexus IS 250 is its 9-inch ample gold bag with the hardtop crammed that can be swallowed. It is great for keeping groceries without placing the top up.
The roof is equipped with thirteen motors and thirty-three sensors from the automatic ballet, and it is made up of lightweight aluminium. The headlining is optimised to ensure that there is no outflow. With the slight push of a button, you can raise or lower the roof.
The supplementary aspect is the fact that the roof brake component slows the motion created by the roof being shut. The absence of sound production while sliding the rooftop when it is closed is the best part. Excellent standards of refinement and comfort are provided by this model, which can be referred to as a peaceful open-air cruiser with some supplementary, discernable characteristics.
For more information about the Lexus IS 250c range, visit the Lexus website.
Tags: Automotive, autos, hybrid cars, lexus cars, Lexus Ls 600h, ls 250c, luxury cars, Rx 450hRelated posts
Will Hybrid Cars Dominate The UK Car Market In 2010?
March 18, 2010 by Danny Green · Leave a Comment
The world is going through a financial crunch. A large number of people have lost their source of income, and some have even lost their homes. What this has resulted in is more careful spending. People are now much more careful with their money. A car is the second biggest investment that a person makes after a home. With rising awareness to global warming and increasing fuel costs, people are being forced to look at other means of transportation.
Car makers have also seen the changing consumer requirements and are now focused on developing cars that emit less CO2, and are more fuel efficient. Car manufacturers are focusing on developing cars using two technologies. One is development of hybrid cars and the other is the development of electric cars. Hybrid cars use two power sources, which are a conventional petrol engine and an electric motor. Electric cars use just an electric motor.
According to BBC, Toyota has announced that it shall manufacture a hybrid model of its Auris hatchback in the UK, from the year 2010. This would be the first time that Toyota would be manufacturing a car outside Japan or USA.
Hybrid technology uses two power sources, mainly electrical power and gasoline being the secondary source. Hybrid cars are almost as good as any conventional cars. The use of electrical energy to run the vehicle not only reduces the carbon emission but also provides an alternative solution for costly fuel consumption. The only reason behind its slow rate of adoption by consumers is its price. Hybrid cars are a bit expensive as compared to the conventional cars; however, in the long run, they are bound to benefit the purchasers as they are fuel efficient and provide reduced tax incentive.
On the contrary, there has been an increase in the hybrid car sales in the UK. Three of the luxury hybrid cars of Toyota Lexus have been selling well in the UK market and the Honda Civic IMA and Toyota Prius are gaining more popularity with time. Toyota Prius is an absolute success among the celebrities.
The hybrid car market of the UK is bound to increase in the year 2010, due to various other factors as well. Though the fuel prices are now in control as compared to the surging oil prices in the year 2007-2008, but it is still not possible for the consumers to keep up with the road taxes, especially in the UK. People who own green cars have to pay less tax than those running conventional cars. Moreover, efforts are being made on the national scale to decrease the depreciation of hybrid car value. This will make resale value equally beneficial for the buying and the selling parties.
The hybrid car technology is being constantly evolved and improved. It is being structured and designed to suit the extreme weather temperature of the UK. Toyota as well as Honda models are striving to introduce special features in hybrid cars to attract the consumers.
With the expected decrease in the prices and increase in their production in the UK, hybrid cars are bound to dominate the UK car market in the year 2010.
Discover more about Lexus Hybrid Cars, visit the Lexus website for more information and to book a test drive.
Tags: Automotive, autos, hybrid cars, lexus cars, Lexus Ls 600h, ls 250c, luxury cars, Rx 450hRelated posts
Characteristics Offered By the Lexus RX 450h
February 21, 2010 by Danny Green · Leave a Comment
Lexus has been designed and manufactured by the Toyota motors with an added exclusiveness to its look. The RX 450h has been in a way reinvented after around 5 years, when it was first introduced to the general public. It has not only been updated with the latest technology with its 2010 highly lavish SUV model. Both the interior and the exterior have been put under special focus, in order to refine its luxurious features as that help define the innovative SUVs in the future.
In its 2005 RX model, the gas engine used a 3.3 L tank, which is now upgraded to 3.5 L V6. The engine is fully powered by a hybrid system. It has introduced a new battery technology according to which nickel-hydride battery pack is fitted under the rear seat. The gas engine, and one electric motor, or generator powers the front wheels, while a second generator powers the rear wheels. It is completely up to the choice of the driver in which mode, and condition of the hybrid system- gas only, electric only, or a combination of the two features, he/she wants to employ.
Although the exterior features have been preserved in the similar manner with respect to the previous models, the width has been elevated. In addition, the wheels have been amplified in dimension, and extra air bags present more safety measures for the complete family unit to voyage. Maintenance under the situation of an assortment of enhancements and alterations that have been brought about in the accessible model, the year 2010 model can be anticipated to be 400 pounds heavier. Its operation is least exaggerated for the reason that of the elevated steering expertise and suspension configuration.
The most appealing attribute of this car is that it has been manufactured as a midsize comfort car. Its mass comes in orderly figure only, and one can choose from customary to discretionary tools that are offered. The customary preference comprise of 18-inch wheels, keyless detonation, a power tilt steering wheel, descending and lounge second row spaces.
Optional packages vary according to the special needs and requirements of the drivers. Lexus RX 450h offers around 5 packages: sports package, premium package, comfort package, luxury package, and navigation package.
The interior of this car is so lavish, and rich that one cannot resist the urge to take at least a test drive in it. Real leather and wood finishing of the steering wheel, and the seats coupled with the optional Mark R. Levinson sound system gives this car an ultimate feel, and ambience. The navigation system is also optional, and highly user-friendly. It introduced Remote touch with a mouse-like controller for the first time.
It suggests extremely relaxed spaces that are usually seating arrangement for the rear seat traveller, and even the storage facility for goods is gigantic that can be estimated around 40 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 80 cubic feet with those behind.
Lexus RX 450h has made an enormous impact on the entire world; especially customers from the U.K. have been making their booking for the acquisition of this car to add unique and lavish equipment to their plush life styles. One of its chief attractions is that, with its trim figure and structure, it is competent of speeding in overcrowded and jam-packed areas, with its energy and environmental uniqueness.
For more information about the Lexus RX 450h, visit the Lexus website.
Tags: Automotive, autos, hybrid cars, lexus cars, Lexus Ls 600h, ls 250c, luxury cars, Rx 450h