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Ford Puma ST

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We’ve taken a short break from reviewing electrical cars to driving back to petrol/diesel cars, old school! The Ford Puma ST (Available to order from October 2020 and arrives January 2021) will soon be here and it’s Ford’s first ever performance SUV in Europe. Which has been created with the signature fun to drive feel of the ST Range.

It has a turbocharged 1.5L Ford EcoBoost engine and has an impressive 200 PS with 320 Nm of torque. While it can go from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds! So, not only does it have practicality of an Urban SUV it also has the sheer power of a Ford Performance vehicle!

Drive Modes

The Ford Puma ST has 4 selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport and Track), a sports-tuned suspension, an aggressively sculpted aerodynamic design, impressive 19” alloy wheels, and signature ST styling. You can seamlessly change the Puma from a robust SUV around town to an exhilarating all round performer. Easily! The 4 drive modes will fine tune the car performance by modifying the engine mapping, throttle, steering response, as well as traction and stability settings. The chassis has been combined with an optional Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential, this will continuously optimise the traction and stability to ensure a comfortable driving experience. In any driving condition.  You’ll be able to do this via the 12.3″ digital instrument cluster.

Storage

Key information is shown on the 12.3″ digital instrument cluster. While a host of smart assistance technologies work together to enhance your driving experience. Furthermore you get a total of 80L storage space with a Puma MegaBox! With Puma Load you no longer have to rummage around for your keys either! Simply use some foot movement under the rear bumper and the boot will open up! It can also be opened and closed whilst sitting in the car!

There is also an option to choose a full length panoramic roof which will replace the steel roof. Letting in lots of light to create an airy feel to the car. the front half is power operated and can tilt or slide ride back. While the full length retractable sunshade lets’ you open the glass to get some fresh air whilst being protected from the sun.

Intelligent Tweaks

The Ford Puma ST has some intelligent tweaks to the car. They’ve been implemented so that none of the fun to drive aspects of the ST are compromised by the ride height of an SUV. There’s and added torsion bar and stiffer rear twist beam counterbalance the SUV models higher centre of gravity to ensure stability. While uniquely tuned suspension springs increase lateral stiffness for sharper cornering.

The New Puma ST also has a fantastic braking system which has been optimised for performance. As it has larger front and rear disc components than on other Puma models, for impressive breaking performance.

Comfy Seats

Inside the Ford Puma ST there is racing inspired RECARO front sport seats. It has contrasting Metal Grey stitching and an embossed Ford ST Logo. While the seats are ergonomically designed to fit you perfectly. Moulding you to every movement of the road.

Driving

The Ford Puma ST has been designed in such a way to uphold the pure joy of driving, whilst maintaining efficiency. Even if it can go 0-62mph in 6.7 seconds. Whilst it has a 6 speed manual transmission to help you get the most out of the car. Shifts are short, fast and deliver a smooth performance on each gear change.

The Tech Lovers Car

Ford Puma has a FordPass Connect modem built in. It provides a whole range of invaluable benefits. Including 4G LTE Wifi for up to 10 devices and real time traffic updates delivered to the in car satnav.

Local hazard information is displayed as warning symbols in the instrument cluster and will advise you of any obstacles you may be approaching. Furthermore in the event of an accident. FordPass Connect will even place an eCall to the emergency services and provide your vehicles location.

While if you download the FordPass app you’ll gain even more features. Such as locating your vehicle via your phone, lock it and unlock it remotely. Monitor fuel level, mileage and tyre pressure. While you can also get vehicle health alerts direct to your phone!

Ford Sync 3

Ford SYNC 3 is a state-of-the-art system that enables you to stay connected and control your phone, music and navigation system with natural voice commands.

Call up a list of local restaurants by simply saying “I’m Hungry” Ford Sync 3 will also read out text messages! The colour touchscreen can be use pinch/swipe gestures and connects to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With AppLink you can also access some of your favourite apps!

Music

There is an incredible music system in the Ford Puma ST. It comes with a powerful B&O system. A premium 575W audio system finely tuned and designed by B&O sound engineers. The system is a 10 speaker set up and includes a subwoofer which has been cleverly incorporated into the rear bulkhead.

Driving Assistant

Ford Co-Pilot360 combines a range of tech that will make your drive better. Adaptive Cruise control automatically adjust your cruise control speed based on the vehicle ahead. It will also recognise speed signs and too adjust your cruise control accordingly.

The Blind Spot Information System will use radars to see any vehicles that will be hidden from your sight. They’re located on either side of the Ford Puma ST and will alert you with an orange light. Which is clearly indicated in the side mirrors.

Traffic Sign Recognition can help the driver recognise speed limits and no taking over signs for example, of which will be displayed on the instrument cluster and will help the driver if they missed a sign.

Parking is made easier by the rear view camera, the view of which will be shown on the centre console. Virtual lines will help you park in even the smallest of places.

Pre-Collision detection and pedestrian detection helps keep you safe on the road. If a collision risk is detected with either a pedestrian or another vehicle, you will be warned. If you don’t respond in time the system can provide full breaking force, to help reduce the severity or in some cases eliminate frontal collisions.

Launch Control

Developed for use on the track (& available on the optional Ford Performance Pack), Launch Control will allow you to maximise acceleration off the line for fast standing starts. Simply set the maximum RPM for the engine and the system will ensure you won’t over rev when pressing the throttle.

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How to Choose Your Perfect Car

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If you are looking for a new set of wheels, then you have come to the right place! Choosing a car is such a personal decision, so instead of choosing just any vehicle, why not ensure that you are choosing your perfect car instead?

 

Finding a perfect car can take a little more time and effort, but that doesn’t need to be the case. Deciding on the right car for you before you start shopping around can help to make the buying process so much easier. With a little bit of thought and planning, you could be driving your dream vehicle before you know it.

 

Know Your Figures

Everyone wants to get the most from their money, and when it comes to buying a car, this means that you want the best model at the best price. Before you fall in love on the forecourt with your dream car, make sure that you have done your sums and that the figures all work out. There is nothing worse than finding a vehicle that you absolutely love, and then realising that it is way out of your price range. You can avoid car buying heartbreak by setting yourself a budget based on what you can afford, and then sticking to it.

 

Perfect and Practical

It is so easy to fall in love with a car, and realise that you can afford it, but still have a nagging doubt lurking in your mind about it. This is usually the situation when you fall in love with a car that looks great, but is impractical for your needs. Buying a car that doesn’t do what you need is a big (and expensive) mistake to make. 

 

Nowadays, there is no need to choose between luxury and practicality as so many of the luxury car manufacturers have achieved this balance perfectly with their SUVs and estate models. If you keep looking, you should be able to find a luxury car that ticks all the boxes without compromising on looks.

 

Buy New or Buy Pre-Owned?

The decision to buy new or to buy a pre-owned car will depend on your priorities. If you prefer to have a brand new number plate and aren’t concerned about depreciation, then a new car may be the right choice. Also with finance owing you could trade in an old car for a new one you just can’t resist. If it’s perfect for your needs, you can essentially swap or sell the car you have for the new model you’ve got your eye on. However, purchasing a brand new model of your dream car may not be a practical option. Whereas, a premium quality pre-owned vehicle could meet all your needs and have all the specifications that you are looking for, with the added bonus of being realistically priced for your budget. 

 

Shop in the Right Places

When you’re shopping for your perfect car, you certainly don’t want to compromise on quality. Therefore, it is vital to source your new vehicle from the right car seller. Buying your car from a luxury car specialist such as JJ Premium Cars will provide you with an extensive array of vehicles to choose from, as well as an assurance of the quality of the vehicle that you select.

Lexus RX 450h F Sport – IMPRESSIVE!

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MV88+ and Lexus RX F 450h Sport!

The Lexus UK RX 450h F Sport is a fantastic car, a real powerful SUV. It's the 4th generation of Lexus' range of the Lexus RX Luxury SUV. We captured it using the incredible Shure UK MV88+ Vlogging kit!

Posted by How To Kill an Hour on Thursday, 16 January 2020

 

The Lexus RX 450h F Sport is a fantastic car, a real powerful SUV. It’s the 4th generation of Lexus’ range of the Lexus RX Luxury SUV. Furthermore it has been significantly updated for 2020, with brand new styling, technical and dynamic upgrades. One of which is that it has self charging hybrid power. We also loved the fact that it has a generously proportioned cabin which provides comfort and plenty of leg room for all passengers! Feel even safer with Lexus’ upgraded safety system+. It has advanced safety and driver assistance features, which is provided as standard on all versions of the RX. The RX F Sport the one that we had, comes with sportier styling, adaptive variable suspension, performance dampers and optical active stabiliser system.

Lexus RX 450h F Sport

The original RX was a unique proposition in it’s day. It was an SUV that was luxurious, comfortable and easy to drive in. Especially in the city. Across 2 decades, Lexus has improved constantly and it became the worldwide best selling model. Cumulative global sales to date have reached 3 million! It is so important to Lexus that it became it’s first luxury self charging hybrid vehicle.

Now in it’s 4th generation the RX has pushed what it means to be an SUV further. The new RX has benefited from further improvements with a series of design, technical and dynamic upgrades.

These changes are led by evolutionary styling which maintains what it means to be an RX. What it means to look powerful and sporty. Furthermore more elegant elements and a cohesive flow from front to the rear of the vehicle. All contribute to a stronger look.

The front maintains the signature Lexus grille, slimmer headlights, more rounded edges to the front bumper. Furthermore an extended line from the rocker panel than connects with the bottom of the grille. Therefore projecting strength and stability.

 

 

 

 

While at the rear of the RX, a more elegant and powerful look has been created via a redesigned lower bumper. This links together smoothly with the rear wings. Elements such as the lights, reflectors and under guard and exhaust outlets are arranged specifically. To emphasise the vehicles width and sense of purpose. Consequently the LED combination lights feature a series of L motifs for the brake, tail lights and indicators.

 

 

Inside

Inside the car the cabin has been vastly improved. Now there is a brand new 12.3 inch central touchscreen display. The screen has been has been moved further forward on the center console to help usage. Plus giving a wider viewing angle and ease of use for both the passenger and driver. The multimedia functions can be used via a trackpad of Lexus’ Remote touch interface or even with voice control! Furthermore you can use your smartphone with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The suspension has been improved, alongside a stiffer rear anti-roll bar, more rigid hubs and a Friction Control Device in the shock absorbers. What does this do I hear you ask! Well this helps to absorb and reduce high frequency vibrations from small imperfections on the road. Therefore making a much more smoother and enjoyable ride!

Plus on the RX F Sport the adaptive variable suspension provides almost constantly variable damping control at the wheel. The new RX’s also have Active Cornering Assist, this automatically suppresses understeer if the driver steps on the throttle while cornering.

Safe

It is also very safe to drive! The Lexus Safety System+ has been upgraded to provide additional protection to help prevent an accident happening. Furthermore it could also lessen the consequence if the vehicle is involved in an impact. Not only that there’s a Pre-Collision System has been increased with pedestrian detection and bicyclists. Also, the the new RX is available with a BladeScanTM Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), which uses a rapidly rotating blade-shaped mirror to direct light from the LED. This allows finer and deeper automatic forward illumination. Therefore providing better vision, making it easier to see pedestrians on road margins. Not only that it doesn’t cause dazzling for other drivers.

Inside the vehicle to RX’s seats support and give comfort with ergonomic design and quality. They’re also low set allowing for excellent headroom. The position of the steering wheel closer to the drive, plus at a lower angle create a much more enjoyable driving position.

 

 

 

 

 

RX F SPORT

There are quite a few special and visual performances that help separate the Sport from the other models.

Such as a jet black finish to the F Sport exclusive spindle grille mesh. A new black frame, an aluminum-look lower bumper edged in black and underguard. The RX F Sport also has beastly 20-inch F sport wheels with a multi-spoke design.

 

 

 

Inside the vehicle the style compliments the F Sports character. Such as highly supportive seats with quilted upholstery. New F brushed aluminum trim inserts. Also the choice of Black, Black with white accents and Flare Red with Black Accents for choices of colours. The shift lever and three spoke steering wheel is also exclusive to the F Sport. They’re all covered in a tactile perforated leather. Furthermore the pedals are also drilled and non slip aluminum!

The instrument cluster is also different to the other models. The 8 inch display is dominated by a larger circular gauge, which combines the functions of a tachometer and speedometer.

Power

The RX 450h is a self charging hybrid system, with a 3.5l direct injection V6 petrol engine. It has a maximum output of 259bhp/193kW/262 DIN hp at 6,000rpm with 335Nm of torque at 4,600rpm. The total system output (engine and electric motor combined) amounts to 308bhp/230kW/313 DIN hp. The fuel consumption is from 35.3 to 35.7mpg.

The powertrain has been improved, the key components and control systems in the Lexus Hybrid Drive System to deliver better fuel economy and minimal emissions. The front transaxle gained a new water cooled transmission oil cooler for the electric motor. Plus a pre-loaded differential to improve performance and straight line stability.

Furthermore other updates to the system include a Power Control Unit and HV Engine Control Unit. This allows for better energy efficiency, more driver friendly operation and more refined performance. Plus the RX 450h has a E-Four All Wheel Drive System!

E-Four all-wheel drive

The RX 450h uses Lexus’s proactive E-Four system. What this is, is a system which locates an additional motor/generator on the rear axle. This leads to fuel and energy use to be reduced. Why? Well the AWD operation is limited to only when necessary. Which allows the rear-mounted motor to act as a generator to charge the battery when the vehicle’s regenerative braking system is operating.

Friction Control Device

A new friction control device has been introduced in the RX. THey’ve been placed at the front and rear shock absorbers. This helps to provide a better ride on roads with slightly uneven surfaces. Furthermore it helps to improve steering responsiveness.

Drive Mode Select

The RX’s Drive Mode Select system allows the driver to choose from a variety of different settings to suit their preferences:

  • The standard system provides Normal, Eco and Sport modes, while versions of the RX fitted with Adaptive Variable suspension additionally feature Sport S, Sport S+ and – an established Lexus first – Customise modes.
  • Eco mode moderates throttle response and engine power output and adjusts climate control operation to support fuel economy.
  • Normal mode provides an even balance between engine performance and fuel economy. Together with Eco mode, it provides a suspension setting that prioritises comfort.
  • Sport mode ramps up performance with sharper throttle response and acceleration and adds weight to the steering.
  • Sport S sets an even higher performance level, with revised throttle mapping and quicker powertrain response. In the RX 450h, the hybrid system allows for enhanced accelerator response and a feeling of more powerful acceleration.
  • Sport S+ combines the powertrain enhancements of Sport S mode, while sharpening the feel of the electric power steering and initiating stiffer suspension for flatter cornering.
  • The Customise mode lets the driver combine their preferred settings for the engine/hybrid system, chassis and air conditioning to suit their preference. This can be accomplished in an easy-to-follow process using the RX’s central display screen.
  • The driver can also make use of an EV mode which switches the vehicle to all-electric operation, shutting down the petrol engine until the limit of battery charge or speed is reached.

 

ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES

Lexus Safety System+

The new 2020 Lexus RX comes equipped with an upgraded version of the Lexus Safety System+. Which include a whole host of features such as:

The Pre-Collision System (PCS) this uses a front mounted camera and a millimeter wave radar. This detects vehicles and pedestrians on the road ahead. If there is a risk of collision, the car automatically warns the driver and provides extra braking force the moment the brake pedal is pushed. However if the driver does not react and the car thinks a collision is imminent, the brakes will be applied automatically to reduce speed. While the seatbelts are tensioned to brace passengers for potential impact. This system has also been updated to be capable of better detecting pedestrians in both day and night time situations.

The same radar used in the PCS also will provide Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. This helps to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. While once the way head is clear the car will accelerate to it’s cruising speed. The system is also intelligent enough to provide low-speed following. Making driving more enjoyable in stop start situations.

Assists

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) will detect when you deviate from your lane. Without the indicators being used. It will provide a warning and steering inputs to help keep the vehicle centered. As it can detect the markings on the road surface.

The RX also has this amazing system where it can assist reading road signs. The Road Sign Assist system uses a camera to recognise principle warning and command signs. Therefore reducing the risk of the driver not being aware of road speed limits.

Lexus Safety System+ further includes Automatic High Beam (AHB), which detects oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead and automatically switches the headlights between high and low beam.

Sway Warning

The cameras used in the RX’s Lane Tracing Assist will also provide a Sway Warning function. The car will monitor it’s lane position and the drivers steering inputs. The vehicle can detect the vehicle swaying caused by drowsiness or even distraction. If it thinks so, it will alert and display a warning on the display. Suggestion that the driver takes a break.

Panoramic View Monitor

Sometimes it’s difficult to park in tight spaces. Or drive over rough and uneven surfaces. Well this got a whole lot easier and safer with the 360 degree Panoramic View Monitor. While not standard on the F Sport. You can add it to the vehicle with the Takumi Pack option.

The system uses an array of cameras to give a driver an all round view of the vehicles location. Not only that you get a bird’s eye view for a better look at your surroundings. The Panoramic View Monitor also allows for better look at obstacles and hazards, eliminating any blind spots. For example the car can help the driver steer into a parallel parking spot, adding guidelines to the real-time camera images to help the driver steer precisely.  Furthermore front and rear sensors will sound an alert when the vehicle moves closer to an obstacle.

Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert

The RX has a Blind Spot Monitor uses rear mounted radars to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes. Plus it can also detect objects behind the RX when reversing. Also the Rear Cross Traffic Alert will warn drivers of traffic or people approaching from either side when reversing out or into a parking space. These functions are standard on the RX Takumi and available in the Tech and Safety and Takumi Pack options.

Parking Support Brake

The RX makes it easier and safer to park and complete low speed manoeuvres, with the Parking Support Brake. If the RC detects a risk of the vehicle making contact with something, infront or behind, it will automatically provide drive and brake control to help avoid a collision and reduce damage risks.

The Parking Support Brake system also includes the functions of the Intelligent Clearance Sonar and Rear Corss Traffic Auto Brake. To enhance visibility and make operation easier!

MULTIMEDIA AND AUDIO SYSTEMS

The RX has a 12.3inch touchpad, which allows users to swipe, pinch and flick, like we are all used to on our smartphones. The screen has been moved forward so it is easier to reach for both the driver and the passenger.

Two USB ports have been moved to the front of the center console and two others have been located at the rear of the unit.

While the standard Lexus multimedia system features an eight-inch TFT display on the centre console. This is operated by the Remote Touch Interface.

This can be set to display a single panel for example a map. Two panels for example half a map and half information or three panel, such as half a map and two information screens. The information that can be shown can be navigation, fuel consumption and audio details.

LexusLink

LexusLink gives the new RX excellent connectivity, accessed via an app. It allows access to useful functions, including: –

  • Find my Car, including the option to share locations with friends
  • Share to Car, to send navigation destinations to the car
  • Last mile guidance
  • Driving Analytics, including speed, distance travelled, time in vehicle, idle time, top speed, severity of braking and acceleration and percentage of time spent in motorway driving
  • Online service bookings and reminders
  • Active Safety Plan to automatically notify a chosen contact via SMS in the event of an accident

The new RX comes with a WiFi hotspot. As standard too! When you purchase an RX you get a complimentary three- month/24GB data plan!

Pioneer 12-speaker audio

Inside the RX is Pioneer’s 12-speaker system which comes as standard on the RX and F Sport. It also comes with a single DVD player and has Coherent Source Transducer (CST) technology which gives high quality and extremely realistic sound reproduction. It includes 200mm subs and 180mm woofers in the front doors.

A Price List of all models can be found here!

Find the FULL Equipment list by clicking here and FULL tech specs by clicking here!

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How To Kill An Hourr

Get Yourself A Car That Will Survive The Winter

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The thought of getting a new car is so exciting to the majority of us. It’s like getting a new toy that we never have to give back, will probably not break on us for the next couple of years, and allows us to have some new fun. It’s like getting a new phone, or buying a new house, the excitement is up there, and for some of you will definitely be a lot higher. Because for someone who is into their cars so much, a decision like this does not come lightly. You will no doubt be in love with the car that you have now, doing anything you can to keep it on the road if it’s packing up on you. Which every car eventually will do after many years of having an owner, especially one with bad driving habits. So you have to ask yourself, is your car going to make it through the winter, or is it time to think about bagging yourself a new one. If you know it’s time for a new one, we’ll show you how to make sure you get one that’ll last the winter, as well as the next few years with you!

 

 

One You Trust, From Somewhere You Trust

 

Getting a car that you trust is just so important. The more time you spend around cars, from all different manufacturers and ages, you realise that cars are just not that reliable, and nor are the people selling them to you. Unless you really know what you’re looking for, cars can be an absolute nightmare to buy. So first, go for a dealership that you know has a good track record with selling reliable cars, such as LMC cars. All it takes is one reliable dealership, and you have a place to buy your cars from for life. It’s not always ideal to go straight to the manufacturers themselves, because the money they charge is so much higher, and you can often find a better deal elsewhere.

 

The Best Winter Cars

 

Winter cars are not your average car. Some cars just aren’t made for the harsh weather, such as BMW’s due to their rear wheel drive, and older cars, because they’re more likely to pack up working during the harsh months. So the best car to have in the winter, is a 4×4, and they’re one of the best during the other months of the year as well. It doesn’t have to be a brand new one, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive Range Rover. There are so many affordable 4×4’s that you could look into, ones that we know will be suitable for the harsh weather. All you have to do is get searching through dealerships.

 

Keeping Up The Maintenance 

 

Maintenance of your car is so important. The more you focus on the maintenance of the car, weekly, the longer it’ll last for you. This involves making sure that there’s the right mix of screenwash and water in your car, the oil level is right, and the tyre pressure is right. It’s far more dangerous going out in the ice, and perhaps even snow when it comes.

how to kill an hour 2019

How Do You Find A Vehicle That Fits Your Personality?

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Many of us, usually in the midst of our childhoods, have once dreamt about owning our own vehicle that is not simply ours in ownership, but resembles our personality to some degree. A car such as Knight Rider, with a voiced AI, a cool color scheme that is in no way ostentatious and a few cool missions to utilize said vehicle with can be a dream for many, something that despite our best efforts to convince ourselves we have grown out of this dream, we never really do.

 

But despite this seeming like quite a comical situation, wishing to find a vehicle that fits your personality can help you ask relevant questions when filtering your search for a new vehicle. While Suttons UK can help you find the best vehicle at the best rates, narrowing your options can be a little trickier. With that in mind, we believe the following advice can help you achieve the best result, and find you that car you were supposed to drive all along:

 

What Will You Use It For?

 

Purchasing a vehicle for a business enterprise, something to run the children to school, or help you with rural living will all require vastly different options. Services such as Suttons UK can help you find the best measure of looking for the best car possible, but it’s also important to know what the bulk of your time behind the wheel will be. Additionally, considering what your road environment is most of the time can be helpful. If you have to drive over an hour to commute, it might be that something with great fuel economy is preferably to something nimble that can zip around a city with ease. With these parameters in place, you can make the best decision.

 

Aesthetic Preferences

 

What aesthetic are you interested in? Perhaps you enjoy high wheel arches, a 4×4 vehicle with plenty of ground clearance, a small car with a somewhat cute ‘spoiler’ or a certain candy paint aesthetic that you may find it hard to find elsewhere. If you’re into car modifications, finding a model that allows for nice bodykit work or maintenance could be a priority for you. It’s perhaps the least important filter on this list, but it can be a great measure of helping you refine your search just a little.

 

Budgeting Allowance

 

Of course, it always comes down to money. Not only in how you might purchase the car, but how you might opt for a finance plan, how reliable the model is known to be, and what the fuel mileage is. Additionally, what you trade in a previous car for may be worth knowing, because it could help you find something a little out of your means otherwise. With that in mind, you can enjoy upgrading your vehicle to the point you are most happy with.

 

With this advice, you’re sure to find a vehicle that does truly fit your personality.

Diagnosing Your Car’s Gearbox Problem

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A gearbox can be extremely costly to replace. Therefore, if there is a problem you need to make sure that it is dealt with immediately. You can save yourself hundreds of pounds via seeking a quick repair and ensuring that the problem does not get worse.

 

Nonetheless, in order to be able to do this, you need to be aware of the signs that indicate you have an issue with your gearbox. Nowadays, you can find out anything online. There are tutorials on how to regas your car air con, amongst other car matters. If you can diagnose a gearbox problem, then you will easily be able to send it off and get it fixed without major damage being caused to your bank account. Read on to discover some of the main symptoms of a gearbox issue…

 

Postponed engagement

Delayed engagement is a telling sign that there is something wrong with your gearbox. If you are noticing a delayed reaction when you shift gears then this should be a cause for concern. Nevertheless, when you are driving it can be hard to notice whether the shift in gears is truly postponed. The best way to get a good idea is to test the gears whilst you are sitting in park. Keep your foot on the brake and turn the engine on. Make sure your foot is still kept on the brake and move your gear into drive position. How does the car feel? If there is a delayed response this should ring alarm bells. But, if your car imminently feels like it wants to move forward then you will be fine.

 

Depleted fluid levels

Another sign that you may have gearbox troubles on the horizon is if you have low fluid levels. There is an easy way to check this. All you need to do is take a look at the transmission dipstick. If the levels are low then this is often an indication that you have a leak in your gearbox. It is not only about checking the level of your fluid either. You also need to make sure the oil is clear and that it does not smell. If you see black flakes or experience a burnt smell, then this is another signal that something isn’t quite right. If you are unsure regarding where to find your transmission dipstick, don’t worry as this can easily be located behind the oil dipstick. The difference between the two is that the transmission stick does not come up as much.

 

Jerky gears

And last but not least, the final telling sign that you have an issue with your gearbox is when the gears are noisy or result in your car jerking. First and foremost, if you can hear a noise when you shift gears then this is a telling sign there is a problem. Not only this, but another troubling indication is a jerky car. If you experience a jerky movement when you are switching gears it is highly recommended you get this seen to as soon as possible. After all, not only does it indicate your gearbox is damaged but it can also be dangerous too.

 

What To Buy For The Car Lover In Your Life

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Shopping for the car lover in your life is usually pretty easy; there are so many things car related you can buy them. But what about those who already have everything? Here are a few ideas you might not have thought of.

 

LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron Car Building Kit

The Bugatti Chiron car building kit by Lego Technic is probably one of the coolest gifts to give an automotive enthusiast in your life. Created thanks to a close collaboration between LEGO and Bugatti, the 1:8 scale car is made from 3,599 parts, a unique serial number, and elaborate detailing throughout. LEGO’s instructions for the kit mirror the assembly process of a Bugatti Chiron and, just like the real Chiron, the LEGO version comes with its own high-speed key!

 

Ultimate Exotic Car Racing Experience in Las Vegas

This one’s a little bigger and a little more expensive, but if you have plans to go to Vegas anyway, then this Cloud 9 Living experience could be a thrill of a lifetime for the car enthusiast in your life. With the base package, drivers get the choice of five supercars that they’ll be able to drive for five full laps around the Las Vegas Speedway’s road course.

 

A Used Car

Car lovers can never have enough cars right? So, you could always get them a used one to add to their collection, a car to do-up, a nice project to keep them busy. Check out The California Group for some inspiration to see what’s out there.

 

Garmin Speak Plus with Amazon Alexa and Dash Cam

The Garmin Speak Plus is super compact and has been designed to provide turn-by-turn directions with a clear, unobstructed view while driving. It also features Alexa integration, which means the driver never has to get their phone out to get the navigation, to change the music or to use the phone. As well as that, the windshield-mounted device has a built-in camera for added safety like forward collision and lane departure warnings.

 

Custom Leather Keychain

Most car enthusiasts love a bit of customization and that even includes minor details like keychains. These custom leather keychains can be personalized just for them either on the one side or both.

 

Hot Wheels Augmoto Augmented Reality Racing Track Set

This Hot Wheels track is like something from the future. You get to control the track through your smart device using augmented reality. The Hot Wheels Augmoto Track brings the action to life with explosions, fireworks, cheering crowds, and more.

 

Alfa Romeo How To Kill An Hour

Car Tech You Really Need

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The latest cars are all full of technology most of which is for safety or comfort reasons, as well as making the cars more efficient and cheaper to run. The technology has advanced at such a pace that you do not have to go back many years to find cars that have very little technology in them. You can always add some to older cars, and there are hundreds of great gadgets that could help to enhance your driving experience. However, there are also some technologies that will stay as part of newer cars only.

 

Dash Cams

Many new cars are being fitted with a dash cam, and some have a rear view facing cameras too. If you have an older car it is very simple to add a dash cam to it and then you will have a recording of the journeys you have made. These can be very useful evidence if there is a dispute with another road user.

 

Portable Jump Starter

Traditionally, car jump starters are made from a large battery that you store in your garage. Now there is one that is small enough to keep in the glove compartment of your car. It includes a USB charger that you can use for your other devices and has a built-in torch in case you need to use it in the dark.

 

300W Inverter

Most cars have USB ports these days, but what if you need to use something that needs a 3-pin socket? Then you need an inverter, which will change your cars 12V DC electricity supply to 240V AC in the UK. If you need to power anything over 150W, you have to clip the inverter directly to your battery. That will then be enough to power a laptop or a camping fridge.

 

Automatic Emergency Braking

This uses a variety of sensors to determine if a forward collision crash is about to happen and automatically applies the brakes to reduce its severity or to stop it or all together. This is going to be fitted as standard on all new cars by 2022 but would take a lot of work to install in an older car.

 

Technology Helping Maintenance

This technology might not be in your car, but the latest developments in servicing and maintenance can certainly help to keep in in a better condition at a more reasonable cost. For example, Mercedes AMG servicing & genuine parts do not have to break the bank and will prolong your car’s performance.  Technology and highly trained technicians have been combined to create the best service possible for your car maintenance and repairs.

 

Adaptive Cruise Control

Cruise control has been around for years, but now it can adapt to the speeds of the traffic around you. By using an array of sensors built into the car it will adjust the speed to suit the cars in front of you. Some of the more advanced systems will even stop and restart the car without you having to do a thing.

 

Technology and car are like everything else that is going on around us. They will continue to evolve and be very different in just a few years to how they are today.