auto body cars

Read Rusty I thought that the Outlander's fold-down bumper was a stupid gimmick ... until I went to Ikea last night to pick up a giant box (what else does Ikea sell besides cinnamon rolls?). The lowered bumper and low load floor made loading the box a snap, and we then locked it back in the up position to help hold the box in place for the open-liftgate, quarter-mile drive home. The paddle shifters have a nice feel to them, too, even if they operate fake ratios in the CVT. Negatives? The seats felt flat to me, and the styling is pretty uninspired, at least when the car is covered in roBlackwell's comments on driving the 2008 Mitsubishi Outlander
Source: http://blogs.automobilemag.com

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Learn how to remove water pump in this free series of cracked cylinder head repair videos from our expert car mechanic and body shop owner.

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A guide on how to improve your car's fuel economy by changing the way you drive (among other things!), in order to save money on petrol

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In Car Alternator Testing

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Car Safety Tips
Car safety is something we all can learn from. Many times injuries and accidents can be avoided by simply following a few simple rules.

Warning Lights

Always keep an eye on your gauges, identifying a problem early can mean the difference in a simple repair and a costly one. Check all brake lights, Day time running lights (DRL) and head lights regularly.

Vital Fluids

a. Oil - Always make sure your oil is changed regularly and is at the full mark. The oil pressure gauge needs to be in the normal range at all times or have it checked immediately.

b. Coolant Level - NEVER REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP WHEN THE CAR IS HOT! Always check your radiator when the car is cold. The reservoir has a cold and hot mark for the coolant level there should be coolant in their at all times. Water temperature is very important. A leaking radiator hose can drain the radiator surprisingly fast. If you are driving your car without water in the radiator, your temperature gauge will show you how hot the water temperature is. Never operate your car if it is in the red area of the gauge. Most cars operating temperature is between 190-210 degrees Fahrenheit.

c. Automatic Transmission Fluid-When checking the transmission fluid the car needs to be running and in PARK.

d. Windshield wiper fluid-Refill only with windshield wiper fluid. The level is very easy to check

e. Brake Fluid-check by looking at the master cylinder and comparing the full line with the fluid level.

Tires

a. Tire Pressure - Always maintain the manufacturers recommended tire pressure, never over inflate your tires. When you are traveling long distances or going thru the dessert, your tires build up extra tire pressure. Never drive with under inflated tires either. Your tires need the proper tire pressure in order to provide the needed stability in the side wall to keep your car driving safely.

b. Tire wear - cracks, bulges, or puncher marks can be a sign that your tires need to be replaced. Check your tires wear bars to gauge tread wear.

Seat Belts

a. Always use your seat belts every time you get in the car. As the driver it is your responsibility that everyone in your car is fastened securely. Always use the shoulder belts in conjunction with the lap belt, they were designed to work together.

b. Make sure all safety belts are working properly, they need to stay fastened after clicking in and also need to release flawlessly when you push the button. I case of an emergency you want your safety belts to be in perfect working order.

Air Bags

Make sure the air bag light is not on while driving, if your air bag light is on this means your air bag is non operational.


Main Drive Belt

Look for a glazed or cracked drive belt, without this belt your car will not operate. Also check the drive belt tensioner, this device hold tension against the drive belt to assure proper operation.

Distractions

Drivers of today are faced with more distractions than ever before. Cell phones, pagers, walkie talkies, passengers and drive thru food make driving the second priority. Try to minimize these and many other obvious distractions so your next drive will be a safe one.

Emergency Road Kits

a. All vehicles should be equipped with some basic supplies. Medical- Bandages, band aids, gauze wrap, Neosporin anti-biotic cream, medical tape, cold packs, and ace bandages.

b. Automotive - Road Flares, a can of tire flat stop leak (will temporarily fixes and inflates your tire), reflectors, water bottles (for you and your radiator), small blanket, dried food (in case you get stranded), Tools-adjustable wrench, screw drivers, duct tape, disposable gloves and safety glasses.

Sun Reflections / Glare

Every sunrise and sunset present unique problems for drivers. Morning frost and glare can make windshields difficult to see thru. Make sure to thoroughly defrost all your windows before driving. Dirty windshields pose a similar dilemma. Make it a rule to have your windshield cleaned every time you get gas. Small squeegees and a small amount of soap make great tools for cleaning windows.

Find a repair manual for your car - Get instant access to your vehicles drive belt routing, wiring diagrams, trouble code information and other available updates and factory bulletins.

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Car Maintenance Intervals and Specific Information

System	Monthly	Bi-Monthly	6 Months	Information
Air Filter			Check	Check the air filter every other month. Replace it when it's dirty or as part of a tune-up. It is easy to reach, in a rectangular box at the forward end of the air duct hose assembly.
Antifreeze	Check			Check the antifreeze/coolant level weekly. Some cars have transparent reservoirs with level markings. Fill to level marking with 50/50 solution of antifreeze and water. Caution: Do not remove the pressure cap when engine is hot.
Battery		Check		Use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. Do not smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery and always wear protective glasses and gloves. Have it checked with every oil change. Cables should be attached securely and be free of corrosion. If battery has filler holes, add only clear odorless drinking water.
Belts		Check		Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts. Tighten them when more than 1/2" of slack can be depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt tensioner require no adjustment. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or too hard, it should be replaced.
Brake Fluid		Check		Check brake fluid monthly. First, wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid or unscrew plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If you need fluid, add the approved type and check for possible leaks throughout the system. Fill to mark on reservoir. Caution: Do Not Overfill.
Engine Oil		Check		Check oil every other fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Exhaust			Check	Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace rusted or damaged parts. Have emission checked at least once per year for compliance with local laws.
Hoses		Check		Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts. Tighten them when more than 1/2" of slack can be depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt tensioner require no adjustment. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or too hard, it should be replaced.
Lights		Check		Be sure all your lights are clean and working, including brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep spare bulbs and fuses in your vehicle.
Oil Filter		Check	Check	To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Power Steering Fluid		Check		Check power steering fluid level once per month. Simply remove the reservoir dipstick. If the level is down, add fluid and inspect the steering pump and hoses for leaks.
Shock Absorbers			Check	Look for signs of oil seepage on struts and shock absorbers, test shock action by bouncing the car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always replace shock absorbers in pairs.
Tires		Check		Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure (it helps to own your own gauge). Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tires are misaligned or out of balance. Keep a record of tire rotation. Rotate at the first 5,000 miles and every 7,500 miles thereafter.
Transmission Fluid		Check		Check transmission fluid monthly with engine warm and running, and parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert it and remove it again. Add the approved type fluid, if needed. Caution: Do Not Overfill
Washer Fluid		Check		Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades. In the winter months, pay attention to the freezing point of the washer fluid.
Wiper Blades			Check	Inspect windshield wiper blades whenever you clean your windshield. Do not wait until rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. Wiper blades should be replaced at least once per year, and more often if smearing or chattering occurs.

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Changing your brake pads at home can save you a bunch of money. And you don't need to be a mechanical genius to do it!

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New spark plugs will increase your fuel economy. All you need are a few basic tools and a free afternoon.

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Your car can actually diagnose itself. Reading the codes is easy.

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Put car parts back the way you found them after changing a fuel filter. Learn about car maintenance and fuel filter replacement in this free video.

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In this section we show you the proper technique to draining the engine fluids from the radiator and connected hoses before removing the engine for disassembly. Explains the process for using your specific engine repair manual to label all of the wiring, vacuum lines and hoses so that installation later will be smooth. We suggest taking lost of pictures during the engine tear down to help remember how all the engine parts were connect later.

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The Backyard Mechanics show how to perform a basic oil change

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Replace Air Cabin Filter step by step and save your money.

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Learn tips on how to change your cars air filter in this free auto repair & maintenance video. Get techniques for do it yourself automotive work.

These are the steps to safey replace the Air Filter on a C5 Corvette.

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Demonstration of removing and installing the master power window switch on a 1998 Toyota Corolla.

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Learn how to replace a blown electrical fuse in your car in this free auto repair & maintenance video.

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Madeline has a full tank of an episode in this week's How To!
Gas prices are at record high prices. Madeline can't lower the cost at the pump for you, but she can offer helpful ways for you to get the most mileage out of the gas already in your car! The first and easiest way to increase your gas mileage is through proper tire pressure. Don't know how to check it, or if it's even right? Madeline shows you How To!

Ever had a dead battery? Madeline has, and now she'll show you what she's learned about jump starting a car. It's not as hard as you think!

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Learn how to make a diagnosis of an alternator problem

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Changing brake pads on a car can be tough so watch this free video on how to do it yourself to save time and money.

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Changing brake pads on a car can be tough so watch this free video on how to do it yourself to save time and money.

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It's generally easy to service your automatic transmission. You won't need any special tools or knowledge.

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01. Alternator - Change an Alternator: Check, Remove, & Install
02. Alternator - Car Alternator Testing
03. Alternator - Alternator Repair, Replacement 1
04. Alternator - Alternator Repair, Replacement 2
05. Axle - Checking the Axle Boots
06. Battery - How to Add Water to Your Car Battery
07. Belt - V-Belt Inspection And Replacement
08. Belt - Serpentine Belt Replacement
09. Brake - Replace Rear Brake Pads : How to Remove a Rotor (part 1)
10. Brake - Brake pad replacement
11. Brake - Basic Brake & Strut Components
12. Camshaft - Camshaft Installation
13. Coolant - How to Add Engine Coolant to Your Car
14. Cooling - Troubleshooting The Cooling System
15. Codes - Read Trouble Codes
16. Checking Battery Fluid
17. Door - Replacing Power Door Locks
18. Filter - Replace Air Filter
19. Filter - How to Change a Car's Air Filter
20. Fluid - How to Check Your Transmission Fluid
21. Fluid - How to Add Front Differential Fluid
22. Fluid - How to Add Transmission Fluid to a Vehicle
24. Fuel - Car Fuel Economy
25. Fuses - How Do Fuses Work in a Vehicle
26. Filter - Replace Air Cabin Filter
27. Filter - Replace Fuel Filter
28. Filter - Changing The Oil & Filter
29. Hatchback - Replacing Hatchback Lift Supports
30. Hose - Hose Inspection And Replacement
31. Lights - Replace Fog Lights
32. Lights - Changing Brake & Tail Lights
33. Lights - Changing Fuses & Interior Lights
34. Lights - Changing Headlights
35. Oil - Change Oil
36. Oil - How to Add Motor Oil to Your Car
37. Pump - Remove Water Pump
38. Rear - Replace Rear Brake Pads : How to Remove a Rotor (part 2)
40. Radiator - Radiator Draining
41. Spark - Spark Plug Replacement
42. Transmission - Automatic Transmission Service
43. Tire - Car Tire Information
44. Tire - Changing A Flat Tire
45. Tyre - How To Make Proper Tyre Pressure & Jump Start a Car
46. Valve - Valve Lash Adjustment
47. Valve - PCV Valve Replacement
48. Window - Replace Power Window Motor

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By Aaron Fecht

Buying a used car is usually a very smart move- maybe one of the smartest moves you can make when it comes to buying a vehicle. Having said that, be aware that there will be a few hurdles along the way. Shopping for a used car is nothing like going out to buy a brand new vehicle. Negotiating and deciding the credibility of the dealership are important factors in the buying process of a used car. However, these are not the things that people have a hard time with. The most difficult thing to determine when it comes to buying a used car, is being able to tell the difference between quality and junk.

The major issue when checking out a used car is distinguishing its condition. It goes without saying that the better the mechanical condition of the used car, the higher the value of the vehicle. It is important to have a mechanic you can trust look the car over and do a diagnostic on it.

The process of finding that good used car can be long and frustration. It is much more difficult than picking out a new car, because you can not simply call up the used car manufacturer and place your order. Here are a few tips to follow when venturing out to buy a used car. Following them could save you hundreds, sometimes thousands of dollars.

1. Do not be shy

Do not be one of those people who feels it is impolite to take too much of salesperson's time by asking lots of questions. The sales person is there to sell you the car. This means that it is their job to take as much time as it takes to do just that.

2. Consult a mechanic

You should be able to have any car you choose inspected by a mechanic of your choice prior to purchasing. Do not take the dealer's word when it comes to the vehicle. Get a second opinion.

3. Bring a pen and pad along with a checklist to be sure you do not miss anything

A checklist can easily be found on websites that specialize in used vehicles. Search Used Vehicle Checklist and you should have a few to choose from.

4. Remember that it's underneath that counts

Just because a car is spic and span on the outside, does not mean that it will not be needing a new transmission in a couple of weeks.

5. Always Negotiate

Car dealers expect you to negotiate the price. Never accept their first offer.

Aaron Fecht is a frequent author of automotive finance resources. Aaron has primarily been working in the credit rebuilding industry for automotive dealerships. View more of Aaron's articles at http://www.canadamotorcar.ca

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By Carrie Reeder

If you are new to the car buying process, the likelihood of acquiring a bad auto loan is high. For this matter, car buyers must familiarize themselves with how the financing process works. A common problem that arises with buying a car is obtaining an upside down loan. This occurs when the amount owed on the vehicle is significantly higher than it's worth. Fortunately, there are techniques to avoid this sort of loan.

Purchase Vehicle with a Down Payment

Car values depreciate. This is inevitable. On the other hand, some vehicles are subjected to rapid depreciation, which means that the car buyer will always owe more than the vehicle's worth.

If planning on keeping a car until the loan is completely paid off, a rapid depreciation is little cause for concern. However, if you enjoy trading-in or buying a new vehicle every two to three years, you may acquire thousands of dollars in negative equity.

One tactic for combating rapid depreciation is purchasing the car with a down payment. Typical down payment amounts are about 10% of the vehicle's price. However, if you can afford a large down payment - perhaps 20% or more - this will help avoid an upside down loan.

Acquire Reasonable Loan Terms

The average length of a car loan is five years or 60 months. Nonetheless, some dealerships and finance companies will stretch out the loan for 72 or 84 months. A longer term means lower payments. However, it also equals more interests, and you will likely owe more on the vehicle than it's worth. If possible, limit loan terms to 60 months or less. For a list of reputable auto lenders see www.abcloanguide.com.

Buy a Used Automobile

Even though new cars are more appealing and attractive, they lose their value very quickly. In fact, within the first two years, a new vehicle will depreciate by 40%. If the car was purchased without a down payment, and the interest rate on the loan is high, the chance of an upside down loan is great. If possible, choose a used automobile. Used cars also depreciate. However, they hold their value longer than a new car.

ABC Loan Guide also has a list of companies that provide Car Loan Financing or Free Credit Report Checks.

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By Peter J.H. Johnson

Here are 10 things to keep in mind before you sign the dotted line on a used car.

1. Before selecting a used car you want to buy, read some reviews and check if the car has a good track record in terms of reliability. You may get an unreliable car cheap, but it'll likely break down. Spend a little more money on something more reliable as repairs are still expensive on cheap cars.

2. Find out the fuel economy rating of the vehicle(s) you're interested in, and how much it'll cost to insure. If this is your first car, insurance will be high especially if you're getting a sporty, 2-door vehicle. Staying with a 4-door sedan will help you get better insurance rates. Also, with gas prices on the rise, fuel economy is becoming even more important.

3. Once you've selected a vehicle, make sure you know the history of it. There are a variety of companies that will run a history report on the car by checking that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of that vehicle was not reported in an accident, stolen, flooded, or repossessed. Most people are not up front as they want to sell the car. Do your research and stay away from anything or anyone you're suspicious of.

4. Find out the used vehicle value. Check online, local newspapers, and the Kelly Blue Book for what the vehicle is worth. Keep in mind that the 'book value' is not always the best measure for what the vehicle is worth as it just gives you the average value. Knowing what other people are asking in the area will help you negotiate and determine if you're getting a good deal.

5. Have the car checked by a mechanic. Sure you'll know if the car was in an accident through the history report but a mechanic can tell if the car was properly maintained. It would be a shame to buy a car and then realize that it needs a $1000.00 repair. A mechanic may find something that you did not notice and it could save you thousands.

6. Always stay level headed when looking at a used car for sale and try not to go alone. Having a second opinion is very important.

7. If you decide to take the car on a test drive, make sure to try everything out, including the a/c, radio, and power features (windows, mirrors, locks, etc) if so equipped. Drive the vehicle on a variety of roads and go to an empty parking lot to test the brakes and handing. But remember, this is someone's car so be respectful.

8. Stay away from older cars that have a lot of electronic gizmos. These are often costly to repair and are not as reliable as vehicles that are more basic.

9. Although a lower mileage vehicle is great, a vehicle with a lot of highway miles is not bad at all. Highway driving is very easy on the car. Stop and go driving is much harder. The condition of the car is more important than the mileage so long as the car was properly maintained.

10. Stay away from ex police cars, cabs, or rentals. These vehicles are traditionally driven very hard and sometimes not as well maintained. They're cheap, but risky to buy.


Peter Johnson is the chief writer for http://www.all-about-car-selection.com

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By Holly Bentz

Unlike other consumer goods, automobiles, cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are non-refundable. As soon as the paperwork is signed, vehicle returns are non-negotiable. Contrary to the popular belief that there's a three-day rescinding period on car purchases - there is not. Buying a new automobile is the second-biggest purchase following a new home. As a result, the decision to buy a new car should never be an impetuous one. The price coupled with the potential financing should be enough for any consumer to make an informed decision. Here are five clever consumer tactics on buying a new car:

Before you buy...

Assemble your checklist.
Set a budget and then prioritize a wish list of car makes, models, and features. Base the purchasing decision on how the vehicle will be used. For example, soccer moms may consider a wagon over an SUV for three reasons: comfortably seats five people, generally has better gas mileage and is easier to drive. A college student may opt for a Hyundai Accent for its price and consumer rating.

Research the possibilities.
Obtain data from ConsumerReports.com, check the automotive section of your local newspaper and check Web sites with car reviews about the prospective vehicle you plan to buy. Once the new car choices have been narrowed down, check the newspaper to determine if any local auto dealerships have any specials.

Cross-reference the cost of the cars featured at your local dealer to the price the manufacturer charged the same dealership at an online the car-pricing site. For instance, Edmunds.com is an excellent car buying resource because it provides the national base price, manufacturer information, the invoice price on basic vehicle models, upgrade prices, dealer rebates, customer incentives and more.

After you have completed all research, return to the local newspaper and look for any car deals. Next, verify the details of the promotion by calling the dealership. This saves time and prevents you from enduring a hard sell. Quite often, these advertisements can be gimmicks designed to inspire customers to come in. However, it is illegal for a dealer to run a promotion on an automobile that is not in stock. If the information regarding the car promotions pans out, proceed with caution.

Car buying tip: When buying a new car, note that the"MSRP" is not an acronym for "manufacturers suggested retail price." It stands for the "Monroney Sticker Price" - which is the highest price of the car. Instead, negotiate the invoice price of the new car up -- because it's the amount the dealer pays the manufacturer.

Car buyer beware.
Amongst car dealerships, bait and switch tactics arenot a rarity. Check out the reputation of the dealership. The Better Business Bureau and your state's Attorney General's office maintain consumer complaints or reports. Any dealership with an overwhelming number of complaints bears avoiding.

Negotiate the car deal.
In-depth research pays off at the negotiating table. For instance, if a car manufacturer extends a bonus or dealer rebate of $1000 on a particular model, it means that the dealership will make $1000 from the sale of the new car. Consequently, an informed consumer could haggle the "invoice" price of the new car or amass a $1000 savings, enabling the dealer to still pocket a decent profit. For individuals buying a used car, request that the dealership guarantee that the automobile has never incurred any damage in writing as an addendum to the contract.

Opt out of the add-ons.
Prior to signing on the dotted line, scour the agreement for irrelevant add-ons. Credit life insurance is futile because it only pays for if the car buyer perishes. Extended warranties are generally obsolete, because most automobile manufacturers offer comprehensive warranties. As for protective coating, it's completely unnecessary.

In summation, when it comes to buying a new car, be clever, take your time, exert patience and be prepared to walk away. After all, once the vehicle is driven off the auto dealership's lot, the sale of a new car is final. (For more consumer tips bookmark, TheConsumerJournal.com.
Please feel free to add this article to your website or ezine with the following message: This article is a courtesy of Holly Bentz, (c) 2006 fruitionMedia.net - All Rights Reserved. For more informative consumer information visit http://AlertsforConsumers.com or for a customized newsletter, web copy or articles, visit http://fruitionMedia.net to contact us.

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By Matthew Pressman

Buy a brand new car and you'll find that as soon as you drive it off the forecourt it is instantly devalued. Even slightly used cars that have only a few thousand miles, or even less, on the clock sell for significantly less than a shiny new motor, and a car only a year old will be cheaper still.

Whether you want to buy a new, nearly-new or used car, there are certain times of year where buying can achieve the best possible deal in terms of price and re-sale value. If you are tempted to opt for a brand new car, now is the time to buy. Generally speaking cars registered between March and September are worth £300 more than cars bought between October and February, according to Glass' Guide. You can also negotiate better discounts during this period.

But, if new doesn't appeal and you are convinced that buying a used car is the way forward, then now is also the ideal time to buy. Traditionally, during the six months from the beginning of March, it has always been the best time to buy a used car as it is typically a buyers' market due to the introduction of a newer registration marquee; many 'nearly new' car owners typically trade in their old cars around this time in order to have the latest marquee available.

Whether you opt for new or used, make sure you do all you can to protect the value of your new purchase by making intelligent choices throughout the purchase process. Buying that pink car may seem like a good idea at the time, but think long and hard about how easy it would be to sell on later. Silver cars are far more likely to appeal to the wider used car buying public, and are therefore easier to sell. Of course, you may get lucky and find someone that absolutely has to have a pink, second hand motor and is willing to pay over the odds for the privilege, but the odds are stacked against it.

Also important in the purchasing process is the type of vehicle; certain makes and models depreciate faster than others. As a general rule premium motors, for example Volkswagens, depreciate by a smaller percentage than 'value' cars such as Protons, but like all elements of buying a used car, do your research before you part with your cash.

Also, if you are not buying with cash, it is important to make sure you get the right used car finance package; the sort where you don't pay wildly over the odds. At least that way you will not negate any hard-won discount from the salesman by paying it back in excessive interest payments to his financier. Remember to shop around rather than opting for the first deal offered and you'll have less chance of losing out. Good luck!
Matthew Pressman is a freelance writer and frequent flyer. When not travelling, he enjoys golf and fishing.

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By Khalid Mustaffa

Local used car for sale by owner is a term that comes up to the mind of every person in the used cars market. The perception is that owner sales are always money savers. This can be very true, or very wrong.

The assumption would be valid if the right research is coupled, and could become your worst enemy if you neglect to do your homework. It may lead to a higher overall budget when the repair work is added to the equation.Hence, there are some dealers and individuals that have no sympathy for negligent shoppers when it comes to the aftermath of selling a car.

I will focus this article on local used cars for sale by owners, and will further dedicate a whole chapter of tips and hints to smart shopping at dealerships. Hence, private sellers don’t have to pay employees, lot rental and all the other costs associated with running a car dealership.

This allows for a used car listed by an owner to be less costly than an identical at a dealership.And this is why you should always look for local used cars for sale by owners.

When approaching private sellers you should always know that every human being looks for their best interest, not only you do so. So, it doesn’t hurt to ask questions and further use the services available to public to confirm the answers. Carfax is a report that provides you with information pertaining to accidents that car have been in, and major mechanical problems were fixed. Furthermore, the best advise I can give you is have the seller provide you with an inspection report from a brand name mechanical shop. Based on the report, you could then associate the car with one of three conditions, fair, good, or excellent. Next, visit KBB for a very accurate fair market listing according to the condition of the car.

Used cars for sale by owners are listed in numerous marketing channels. Start with your local newspapers, get an idea of what’s out there, then browse some trade magazines, and last but not least with the power of the internet. Keep in mind that all mentioned methods charge to list a car, and the more they list the larger their profit going to be. Browse the internet for websites that do not charge money to list the cars, and better yet, look for those that provide free consultation and tips to the buyers. The way these types of websites operate allows them to profit from buyers visiting their site, as appose to sellers listing their cars.

Finally, keep in mind that asking price does not equal the final out of pocket value. After buying the car, you would have to pay tax, license, registration and most importantly initial preventive maintenance (oil changes, fluid flushes etc.). On a concluding note, Local used car for sale by owner is a term that could be your best dream, or worst nightmare. It all depends on your level of awareness of the cars’ history, and the amount of basic research you do.


© Copyright - 2007 Khalid R. Mustaffa The owner of Cars In Houston The website serves as Houston used cars classifieds. However, it is dedicated to serving the Houston market needs pertaining to Houston Used Cars, on top of providing important information to car buyers and owners around the world.

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By Anthony Lee

Gone are the days when cheap usually means that quality has been compromised resulting in lower monetary value. If you are looking for a car, you may just decide to go for cheap used car auctions instead.

There have been a lot of horror stories at these cheap used car auctions where flooded cars have been refurbished to mislead buyers. However, you need not have to worry about situations like these if you decide to patronize cheap used car auctions from reliable and trusted institutions.

For instance, you might like to decide on going for cheap used car auctions by the U.S. government and its agencies. From sources like these you can be sure that these previously owned vehicles from the government are very well maintained so that you can be sure that what you will be purchasing is truly a steal.

To be able to bid at these cheap used car auctions, you must first register for an auction about to happen nearest you. Do not worry, registration for these cheap used car auctions held by these government agencies are free. You can find out about the schedule and details of these auctions online.

After registering to bid, ask whether they have a scheduled inspection day so that you can check out the cars being auctioned off ahead of time. If there are no inspection day schedules, schedule one for yourself so that you can personally check out the cars so you can find some that you might be interested in.

Ask also for an auction booklet that will contain all the details of the cars that will be auctioned off. Here you will find the cars and details like their make, color, and mileage. This will help you estimate how much the market value of the car is, how much the starting bid is, and from here decide on your budget and target price.

That is how you can own your own car through cheap used car auctions.

For listings of used car auctions, please visit http://www.buy-cheap-cars.info/

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By Nick Fagan

It is important to complete an auto bill of sale form when selling or buying a used car. For the seller, an auto bill of sale form provides proof that title to the used car has been legally transferred. For the buyer, the auto bill of sale form documents the purchase of the used car. The auto bill of sale form should contain: name and address of the buyer; name, address and signature of the seller; complete vehicle description, including the Vehicle Identification Number(VIN); description of trade-in, if any; purchase price of the vehicle.

Auto bill of sale forms are required in many states to register the newly purchased used car. These states usually require a state specific auto bill of sale form that documents specific information such as the purchase price for tax assessment or to obtain the actual mileage/odometer reading of the used car. A generic auto bill of sale form will not be accepted in these states. You will need to obtain a state specific auto bill of sale form.

To register a used car in other states, all that's required is that the title assignment section on the title be completed and signed. Many of these states have added to the title assignment section of the title the information that was previously collected with separate documents (i.e. odometer disclosure statement, sales price/tax statements, etc.). In these states, an auto bill of sale form is not required to register the used car and is used by the seller/buyer to document the initial sale/purchase of the automobile.


Click here to find your state's Auto Bill of Sale Form & Promissory Note Form.
Legal Forms Bank.biz, download legal forms online.

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By Steven McCauley

Would you consider buying a car...or selling one for that matter...over the Internet?

Where would you go to buy or sell a car online? Who can you trust?

Here's some eye-opening car buying and selling online statistics I'd like to share with you...

eBay Motors is the world's largest online marketplace for all things automotive and they have over 12 million shoppers car buying online every month with a vehicle selling every 60 seconds.

eBay Motors is so big, It's the most visited used car buying online website on the planet! There are more unique auto shoppers every month at eBay Motors than all the other major outlets, such as Cars.com, AutoTrader.com, and Yahoo Autos combined...let me say it again...that's COMBINED.

It's a quick and easy way to expose your vehicles to buyers nationwide...even worldwide!

Here's another interesting fact -- 75% of the vehicles sold on eBay Motors are sold to out-of-state buyers.

So why be confined to a small local market when buying or selling your car? It just doesn't make sense.

And apparently there are a whole lot of people who aren't bothered by buying or selling a vehicle over the Internet.

What you'll discover within this article is why, and how you can do it too, while staying safe and protecting yourself from the scamers and thieves out there that want to separate you from your money or property.

Come with me while we checkout the best places to go, and what to do to stay safe.

The Big 4 car buying online review

My advice is to use the below car buying online websites, as well as edmonds.com, kbb.com (Kelly Blue Book) and jdpower.com, to do your research on the value of the car you're looking for, what you should be paying for it and what the auto industry and consumers say about the vehicle in the reviews.

Here are the features I like the best about the big four...

Autotrader.com - This is a classified listing site. Most of their listings are car dealers with a few private owner listings sprinkled in between. There's very helpful tips on buying new, certified preowned or used cars. Good place to visit to research seller asking price or to get retail and invoice pricing.

Cars.com - This is a classified listing site. Most of their listings are car dealers with a few private owner listings sprinkled in between. It has an awesome shopping advice section, particularly the manufacturer's incentive programs, which is most useful when doing your research on cash back and special financing offered on your new car.

eBay Motors - You already know this...but I'll tell you anyway...this is an auction site. Their listings are a 50/50 mix of car dealers and private party used car sellers. Here you'll find a great tips and advice section that completely describes the car buying online process for both buyers and sellers of vehicles, and check this out...in the left column there is a "Search Options" section that allows you to query "Completed Listings". By using this handy feature for the car you want, you now know what others have paid for the same vehicle...and therefore...what you should be paying too.

Yahoo Autos - You can view beautiful photos of the new car you like...up to 19 outside and inside shots organized extremely well for easy, pinpointed, new car research. I really like their new car quick facts too...just click on the make, model and year you are interested in and up pops the quick facts page where you can see what Cash Back or Special Financing is available, a "Total Cost To Own" calculator is also available where you can see what it will cost you to own the vehicle you're looking to buy over a five-year period...and it's based on your local area. Another useful feature is the owner reviews that you can use to determine ownership satisfaction. Used car listings for Yahoo Autos are provided by Autotrader.com.

Side Note: Here's a link to a great site I found where you can do a meta search on most, if not all, the car sites for the vehicle your looking for on just one query. It saves you time -- you don't have to visit each site and type in the information over and over again...here it is: carchex.carminer.com.

Online car buying tips for buyers

The tips here a primarily for eBay auto auctions, but you can use most of them for the online classified sites as well. Once you know what you should be paying for the car you want by checking out what others are paying on eBay Motors, you can query the online, car classified sites with the car specifics and price. If you get a hit on your search criteria and you like the vehicle, contact the classified listing owner and make an offer.

But read these important tips first...

Focus on one car. Choose a make and model, then hit the Internet market place. It's easier to make frequent checks on the Internet car market by using an exact model in the search field. Then narrow things down further by year -- "from and to", for example: from 2003 to 2004.

Watch the auctions for a while before bidding. Use the "Watch This Item" feature to track sales. Search "Completed Listings" to track final sale prices. This is good advice before you make a purchase at any car buying online site.

Get familiar with the eBay buyer tools. Check the feedback from other buyers regarding the seller. Read the auction description carefully and request more clarification or photos by e-mail if necessary.

Some "experts" recommend you stay away from sellers with no feedback or that you make sure the individual is rated as a seller, not a buyer...I say balony!

And here's why...

For example...what if I'm a buyer and a seller at the same time, that is to say, what if I'm in the market for a new car and instead of trading in my existing car, I want to sell it online and make some money instead of giving it away (well almost) to the new car dealership? This may be the first time I've attempted to sell a car online, therefore, I would have no seller feedback.

This is a good thing in my estimation; I'd rather buy from a private party individual with no feedback than a dealer with tons of feedback. You are typically going to pay thousands of dollars less buying a used car from a private part vs. a car dealership.

Call the seller with questions. If you can't develop a rapport with the seller over the phone, why would you buy his/her vehicle site unseen? It all starts with building trust...and if it doesn't feel right over the phone, then it just ain't right.

Look for low reserve or no reserve auctions. Reserve price can often be as high as the car's retail value. Low reserve should be some where between wholesale (or trade-in value) and private party price. Some recommend looking for "No Reserve" auctions to bid on, but I don't agree with this because if the highest bid is below fair market then the seller could potentially cancel the listing before the auction ends.

Does the seller allow you an out? Bid only on auctions where sellers allow you to cancel after you inspect the car. Don't buy a car until you've had it inspected first...especially sight-unseen.

Obtain a vehicle history report. A vehicle history report can provide useful information, such as who holds the title to the car and whether the car has been in an accident that was reported to authorities. You'll also find out whether the car was ever reported stolen, salvaged or damaged.

Get the car inspected by an ASE-certified auto mechanic, if you brought the vehicle at auction or via private party. Schedule a mobile vehicle inspection with a professional mechanic or an auto inspection service that will go to the car if it's not located in your area. This is a great benefit. An auto inspection can identify hidden problems and help you avoid a costly mistake.

Now, keep in mind that an auto inspection isn't a warranty and won't guarantee a car is free from defects or that the inspector has identified all existing problems. But do keep in mind that sometimes, though, an auto inspection will uncover problems not reflected in the vehicle history report that could cause you to walk away from the purchase.

So don't rely solely on the vehicle history report to make your purchase decision...get your purchase inspected too.

Contact a mobile vehicle inspection service like carchex.com and arrange for a mobile vehicle inspection at a nominal cost. There are many good ones out there so do your research and choose wisely. It's important to get the seller's OK to do this first, and then provide the auto inspection service with the seller's contact information.

Confirm seller's contact information. Before you send payment, verify the seller's proper name, full address, phone number(s), email address, etc. You may even want to do a quick background check. You may want to visit netdetective.com where you can do this online. Again, there are a lot of service providers in this field, so do your research.

OK...so everything should match up. Be wary if the seller is located overseas; my suggestion is if you aren't in the international auto business or into buying expensive, exotic foreign cars, then deal only with U.S. sellers. You should be able to find the vehicle you want state-side.

Pay for the vehicle. Use PayPal to send a deposit for eBay auctions. Use a reputable escrow service, like escrow.com to protect yourself against fraud when paying for a car you purchased at auction or through a private party. You can use traditional methods of payment if you purchase through an established, brick-and-mortar car dealership you verified to be legitimate. Check with the Better Business Bureau.

Get a detailed receipt. Ask the seller for a receipt that states whether the vehicle is being sold with a limited warranty or "as is." If it's as-is, then you may want to purchase a limited, 90-day warranty yourself for protection against the unseen.

Get title to the vehicle. Make sure you know what's required in your state to transfer title to the vehicle you're buying. You can use an online title transfer service, such as that provided by escrow.com, who can handle everything or you can do it yourself.

Factor in travel or delivery costs. Remember, you have to pick up the vehicle. If you're local, then it's not a problem. If it's in another state several hundred miles away, then you also have the option of having it shipped. Include gas, hotels, food, lost work time, and plane tickets, etc. in the cost, if you're picking it up long distance. Part of buying a car halfway across the U.S. is the adventure...and the savings! It's not worth the trip if you're not saving more money than it's costing you to obtain the vehicle...and then some.

Pick up your car. If you're going to fly, buy round-trip plane tickets. Round-trip airfare is often cheaper than a one-way ticket, and it gives you flexibility if you decide to back out on the purchase. If you don't plan on getting the vehicle yourself, arrange for transport via a reputable auto transport company.

Online car buying tips for sellers

Confirm all contact information. Be very wary of buyers willing to purchase your car sight-unseen, especially buyers located overseas. Always verify the buyer's complete contact information.

Secure payment first. Do not transfer the title until you have payment in hand or in escrow at the agreed upon price. Verify that a certified check is genuine. Before you deposit a certified check, verify authenticity with the issuing bank -- not just your bank. Make sure the account contains sufficient funds and the issuing bank guarantees payment on the check. It may take a week or more for the check to clear. It hasn't cleared just because your bank has accepted it and credited your account.

Beware of overpayment or other complicated payment schemes. Don't agree to any plan where the buyer asks to send a check for more than the sale price and requests that the seller refund the difference. And be suspicious of any buyer who proposes making payment through a friend, agent or any other third party the buyer wants to designate.

Never give out personal information via a website, email or over the phone unless your absolutely have to and you are sure it is safe to do so. If you are conducting a transaction using your credit card on a website make sure it is legitimate first. Don't arrive at the site through a link in an email; type the web address directly in the Address Bar yourself. Then make sure your transaction is secure via a secure server; look for a logo such as Verisign or check that there's a lock icon in the lower right corner of your screen.

Prepare your car for transport. Whether the buyer is picking up the vehicle themselves or having it picked up by an auto transporter/shipper, prepare the vehicle for its journey. The auto transport company will provide you with instructions on what to do.

By following the tips and techniques contained in this article, you should have a pleasant, safe and secure...as well as exciting...online car buying experience.

Steve McCauley, a self-proclaimed car nut, who has over 20 years of professional customer service experience, started SJM Automotive Services, LLC; It was in response to a niche he saw unfilled for a personalized car buying service that catered to each individual's specific automotive needs. Find out more about Steve's company here at http://www.sjmautomotiveservices.com Steve is also the proprietor of a complementary, content-rich web site called http://www.carbuyingtips-sage.com, where you can find a wealth of free tips, techniques and resources (similar to this article) that are indispensable to anyone looking to buy a vehicle. The site covers negotiation tips, financing options and everything else you'll need related to the car buying process.
SJM Automotive Services is part of the Automotive Consulting Network, a company with over 200 Affiliates in the U.S. and Canada, and over 15 years of proven success.

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By Aurel Radulescu

If you have recently been through a bankruptcy, you may be feeling as though it is impossible to obtain credit. Reasons that include what you have heard about the stigma of bad credit and what you have read may leave you feeling helpless, especially if you need a more reliable automobile. If you are looking for used cars, you may be able to find one even if you have less than perfect credit.

Buying used cars after bankruptcy, late payments or even a repossession is often possible in a number of situations. If you can find a dealership that offers owner financing or an individual who is willing to do the same and has a car to sell, you may be in luck. With owner financing, the business or individual grants you the right to make monthly payments and is often done without a credit check. The other option to purchasing used cars with poor credit is through a dealership that is experienced in helping individuals get approved with local lenders even if their credit history has some blemishes. If you are approved for financing, you can expect to pay a higher interest rate than those who have good credit simply because the lender will consider you as a ‘high risk’ loan. This means that, because of past credit problems, they believe you are at a higher risk of not repaying the loan. The higher the risk, the higher the interest rates.

If you are shopping for used cars after bankruptcy, the best way to ensure your loan approval is to start rebuilding your credit. You can do this by getting a secured credit card or by applying for one that specializes in helping individuals to rebuild their credit. After three months of regular payments on a new account, your credit score will begin to improve. It is also important that, before applying for any type of loan for used cars, you work on cleaning up your credit report. If you have recently been through a bankruptcy, your credit report may not reflect every one of your accounts that were included in your petition. Some creditors do not update properly, which means that you may need to file a dispute with the credit bureau so that they may launch an investigation. It can take some time to get your credit report corrected, but will prove to be worth it when it comes time to apply for a loan.

When shopping for used cars, you will need to have a down payment. If your credit history is less than perfect, you may be required to have a larger down payment than other consumers. The best way to determine this is to simply ask the used cars dealership and explain your situation before falling in love with any one car. Browsing for used cars will be a lot easier if you know that you are working with a used cars dealership that will help you obtain financing and will work to get you the best possible interest rates for the life of the loan.

Read more used cars buying tips, where to find used cars or how to find the value of an used car http://www.usedcarspace.com/KellyBlueBook.php

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By Steven McCauley

If buying your last new car (or used car) was one big costly mistake...then this article was written for you. And it positively is for you if you want to avoid making a big mistake from the outset. Interested...great, lets get started!

There are five criteria that make the best vehicle value: price, intrinsic quality (what appeals to you), insurance cost, warranty coverage and resale value. Now, you want to narrow your search to 2 or 3 vehicles you like, and then compare your short list using the value analysis criteria outlined below, and once you are done, you will have found the vehicle that is right for you.

Price

Check the blue book value price and range to determine what others are paying. Kelly Blue Book is commonly used in the Eastern U.S., while the NADA - National Automotive Dealers Association (Yellow Book) is primarily used in the Western states.

There is a third source you should definitely check called Edmonds. There is a lot of good insightful information on their website; it has this feature for new car pricing I like where you type in your zip code and it tells you the True Market Value (TMP) of the desired vehicle locally in your area, not nationally. You can visit them through this link.

Use all three sources as a reference. Remember that no two vehicles of the same, make, model and year are exactly alike; these published values are just a starting point to gage a vehicles value.

Intrinsic Quality

There is a big difference in perceived vs. actual quality between a Japanese vs. an American car, or pretty much any foreign import for that matter. Did you know that there really is not much of a difference today in the manufactured quality of a Japanese car vs. an American car, but the popular belief still holds that a Japanese car is better.

Because of this false perception, a Japanese car holds its value longer while an American car depreciates faster. The up side of this is that you can save money up front by buying an American car vs. a comparable Japanese car in the same class. This is a good thing if you purchase and hold onto the American vehicle for several years. This is not such a good thing if you lease an American vehicle since it rapidly depreciates over the first few years of ownership and negatively impacts your calculated monthly lease payments.

Also, what are the reliability and safety factors of the vehicle you want to purchase as compared to other vehicles in its class? Read up on the vehicle test drive reviews to find out which vehicle has the safety features you like.

Insurance Cost

What is it going to cost to insure that baby? Talk to your insurance agent, heck, shop around and talk to several to get quotes on what you will pay to insure the vehicles on your short list. This cost alone could be the tie breaker.

Warranty Coverage

What is the manufacturers warranty coverage for each of the vehicles you like? You may be surprised at the answer, so factor that into the equation as well.

Resale Value

Remember what I said earlier about holding value? Well, it matters if you are the type of person who likes to get a new vehicle every few years, but if you hold onto it until its ready for the crusher, then this does not have much weight or bearing in your decision.

If a domestic vehicle stacks up against an import and you plan on holding on to it forever (well almost), then with everything being equal, your best value as far as price definitely will be American-made.

The reverse is true if you are only going to hold onto the vehicle a couple of years.

OK, so you have done your side-by-side comparison, and a clear winner should have emerged. Go ahead, make your vehicle selection. Ahhh...feels good! Now you are ready to find a dealership and get out there and haggle with a car salesman on price, financing and your existing vehicle's trade-in value, if you have a vehicle to trade in. Good luck!

Steve McCauley, a self-proclaimed car nut, who has over 20 years of professional customer service experience, started SJM Automotive Services, LLC; It was in response to a niche he saw unfilled for a personalized car buying service that catered to each individual's specific automotive needs. Find out more about Steve's company here at http://www.sjmautomotiveservices.com Steve is also the proprietor of a complementary, content-rich web site called http://www.carbuyingtips-sage.com, where you can find a wealth of free tips, techniques and resources (similar to this article) that are indispensable to anyone looking to buy a vehicle. The site covers negotiation tips, financing options and everything else you will need related to the car buying process.

SJM Automotive Services is part of the Automotive Consulting Network, a company with over 200 Affiliates in the U.S. and Canada, and over 15 years of proven success.

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By Tim Lee

Statistics reveal that there are nearly as many as three times more individuals that prefer buying cheap used cars at auctions and dealerships as compared to buying new. Many also prefer buying cheap used police cars and one main reason for this is that police cars can last long because these are turned off very seldom for their first 100 thousand miles.

Here are some tips and guidelines to follow when buying cheap used police cars:

1. You should have a definite budget as this will be very helpful in setting your limits prior to browsing online or going to sales lots wherein it sure is easy to get impressed with special promotions on a police car model and type that is outside your "price range".

2. Go to a trustworthy dealership. Ask for referrals from family and friends and talk other customers. A reliable dealer will be up-front and fair in price, condition and value of its police cars as well as not pressure you in purchasing any car.

3. You should inspect its mileage, because the mileage is an excellent "car age" indicator.

4. Be sure to check out the police equipment in it. You may discover speakers, sirens, lights, radios, etc. Offer it first to the car dealer so he can lower the price on your police car. Or you can pull out the equipment then sell it to on-line auctions.

Just be sure not to give it to the police car dealer for nothing. Used sirens today are worth around 100 to 150 dollars and siren speakers are worth around 50 to 150 dollars.

5. Remember to examine carefully the tires. Uneven tread wearing may be an indication that the police car may require alignment or has suspension damage.

6. It is sensible to bring along your mechanic to inspect the car's mechanical condition. Also remember to test drive the used police car.

7. Do inspect it for contraband. These cars transport criminals so it is possible that these individuals slip some illegal stuff unto the rear seats!

Take it to your local police station, so they can inspect it for you. It is better that the police discover it, than have the police discover it at a "traffic stop".

8. Ask for the car's maintenance records and check it out.

9. Be sure that the car's safety features are still complete.

10. Keep in mind that most of the time, the interior light will not light up when the "driver's door" is opened, this is because the police car is ordered like that. When the light is put on inside, the occupants in the car are easily seen.

11. Check and carefully inspect the car's rear door power window and lock controls. Most used police cars have deactivated rear-door locks, handles and power window controls in order to prevent criminals from escaping.

12. You must read carefully and understand fully all the warranty terms on the police car. Ask questions should you not understand anything, because a reliable dealer will willingly answer all your questions and explain completely the warranty details.

Keep in mind, the police car's actual price is just one of the many factors determining its total price. Compare warranty costs, financing rates, processing fees and trade-in car values also.

Research on the make and police car model and do compare prices and take the time to shop around before deciding on a car.

For listings of used police cars, please go to http://www.auto-car-auctions.info/

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By Gary Hanish

Going for something cheaper is a human tendency. This applies when buying a car as well. This is why so many people are buying used ones. It has been reported that the number of people who purchase used cars in 3 times as many as the number of people who purchase new ones.

1. It is beneficial to know how used cars are priced. Dealerships will usually add a certain percentage of the original value of the used car to its current value This will increase the cost of the car sold at these dealerships.

2. Determine the many factors that affect the prices. Used car pricings are affected by installed optional equipments or the location where you are buying. There are areas that have a high market demand for a certain car. If that is the case, you may get a better deal if you travel outside of the zone to shop around.

3. A good way to educate yourself about the current pricing of used cars would be to seek the help of NADA (National Automobile Dealer's Association). They have guides that show the prices and these guides are published once a year. In addition you could also go to their website and check the current price of the used car you want.

4. Cheap used cars might also be found at government auctions. These auctions take place every year. You should check the list of auction program to see if the car you are eyeing for is on offer. They may also provide you with tips on how to find used cars at low prices. Visit the Federal Citizen Information to find out more.

5. Check out the Internet. There are a lot of web sites that provide pricing guides on used cars and also guidelines in finding the right ones for you. You may compare prices; check out the features of the used car and the location where you can buy cheaper prices.

6. It is also important for you to note that the age of the used car, its overall shape (condition), its age, its market demand, its mileage, as well as its interior and exterior condition all affect the price of the used car. You should also get its maintenance record from the dealership or previous owner.

7. Be wary of tricks deployed by dealers. They know that a person will not buy unless he is given a discount. Hence what they tend to do is they will mark up the original price of the car. When a prospective buyer shows interest, they will give a special discount to him. Unbeknownst to the buyer who thinks that he has found himself a bargain, the price of the car after discount is actually the original price before the mark up.

Gary Hanish Is A Car Expert Who Knows Very Well The Ins & Outs Of Buying Used Cars. Get His Free "Car Buying Tips" Course On His Buy Used Car Site & Learn How Not To Get Ripped Off When Buying A Used Car.

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Here are some drag racing terms so you “racers” out there aren’t left scratching your heads. A little knowledge goes a long, long way my friends.
Air foil: acts as a stabilizer creating that much needed down force for better traction and control
Bang the blower: an explosion inside the supercharger caused by a flame from the combustion process accidentally re-entering the supercharger, where fuel and air are present. Generally caused by a stuck or broken intake valve that normally would be closed during the combustion sequence.
Breakout: Used only in handicap racing, “breakout” refers to a contestant running quicker than he or she “dialed” his or her vehicle (predicted how quick it would run). Unless the opponent commits a more serious foul (e.g., red-lights, crosses the centerline, or fails a post-race inspection), the driver who breaks out loses. If both drivers break out, the one who runs closest to his or her dial is the winner.
Burned Piston: When a cylinder runs lean (too much air in the air-to-fuel mixture) and excessive heat burns or melts the piston.
Burnout: spinning the rear tires in water to heat and clean them prior to a run for better traction. A burnout precedes every run.
Christmas Tree: Also called the Tree, it is the noticeable electronic starting device between the lanes on the starting line. It displays a calibrated-light countdown for each driver.
Clutch Can: The bell-shaped housing, or bellhousing, used to encase the clutch and flywheel.
Clutch Lockup: The progression of clutch-disc engagement controlled by an air-timer management system.
Deep stage: to roll a few inches farther into the beams after staging, which causes the pre-stage lights to go out. In that position, a driver is closer to the finish line but dangerously close to a foul start.
Dial under: when drivers in Super Stock and Stock (handicap categories) select an elapsed time quicker than the national index. Drivers select a dial-under, or e.t., that they think their cars will run based on previous performance. The breakout rule is in effect.
Diaper: an absorbent blanket made from ballistic material, often Kevlar, that surrounds the oil pan to contain oil and parts in case of an engine explosion; required for Top Fuel, Funny Car, Top Alcohol Dragster, and Top Alcohol Funny Car.
Dropped cylinder: when a cylinder runs too rich (too much fuel in the air/fuel mixture) and prevents the spark plug(s) from firing.
Elapsed time: the time it takes a vehicle to travel from the starting line to the finish line. Also called e.t.
Eliminations: After qualifying, vehicles race two at a time, resulting in one winner from each pair. Winners continue in tournament-style competition until one remains.
Foul start: indicated by a red light on the Christmas Tree when a car has left the starting line before the green light, or starting signal.
Full Tree: used in Competition, Super Stock, and Stock, for which a handicap starting system is used to equalize competition. The three amber bulbs on the Christmas Tree flash consecutively five-tenths of a second apart, followed five-tenths later by the green starting light. A perfect reaction time on a full Tree is .500.
Header(s): a fine-tuned exhaust system that routes exhaust from the engine; replaces conventional exhaust manifolds.
Hemi: A Hemi engine has a hemispherical shaped cylinder-head combustion chamber, like a ball cut in half.
Holeshot: when a driver reacts quicker to the Christmas Tree to win a race against an opponent with a quicker e.t.
Hydraulic: when a cylinder fills with too much fuel, thus prohibiting compression by the cylinder and causing a mechanical malfunction, usually an explosive one
Index: the expected performance for vehicles in a class as assigned by NHRA. It allows various classes of cars in the same category to race together competitively.
Interval timers: part of a secondary timing system that records elapsed times, primarily for the racers’ benefit, at 60, 330, 660, and 1,000 feet.
Methanol: pure methyl alcohol produced by synthesis; used in Top Alcohol Dragsters and Top Alcohol Funny Cars.
Nitromethane: Produced specifically as a fuel for drag racing, it is the result of a chemical reaction between nitric acid and propane.
Pre-stage: to position the front wheels about seven inches behind the starting line so the small yellow lights atop that driver’s side of the Christmas Tree are glowing. The next step is to stage and be ready to race.
Pro Tree: used in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock, Pro Stock Motorcycle, Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Super Comp, Super Gas, and Super Street, which feature heads-up competition. All three large amber lights on the Christmas Tree flash simultaneously, followed four-tenths of a second later by the green starting light.
Reaction time: the time it takes a driver to react to the green starting light on the Christmas Tree, measured in thousandths of a second. The reaction-time counter begins when the last amber light flashes on the Tree and stops when the vehicle clears the stage beam.
Sixty-foot time: the time it takes a vehicle to cover the first 60 feet of the racetrack. It is the most accurate measure of the launch from the starting line and in most cases determines how quick the rest of the run will be.
Slider clutch: a multi-disc clutch designed to slip until a predetermined rpm is reached; decreases shock load to the drive wheels.
Speed trap: the final 66 feet to the finish line where speed is recorded.
Stage: to position the front wheels right on the starting line so the small yellow lights below the pre-stage lights are glowing. Once both drivers are staged, the calibrated countdown (see Christmas Tree) may begin.
Supercharger: a crank-driven air/fuel-mixture compressor also called a blower. It increases atmospheric pressure in the engine to produce more horsepower.
Turbocharger: an exhaust-driven intake air compressor (see supercharger).
Wedge: an engine with a combustion chamber resembling a wedge in shape.
Weight transfer: critical to traction. Vehicles are set up to provide a desired weight transfer to the rear wheels. Upon acceleration, the front wheels lift and the weight shifts to the rear wheels, which makes them less likely to spin.
Wheelie bar(s): used to prevent excessive front-wheel lift.

Okay, now that some knowledge have been imparted on you jokers out there you can walk away smugly and be confident knowing that you actually know more about your car and the sport. Feels good doesn’t it? So the nest time somebody opens up a conversation about drag racing, you can actually participate intelligently. Word up!
Source: http://www.nhra.com/basics/glossary.html

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