Okay guys, being able to deal with cars is an important aspect to me for my own personal version of "being manly" and it's also very useful to know stuff about cars even if you don't have any interest in cars. Since bio-females tend to get steered away from things like autoshop in school, and our fathers may have only saved the auto lessons for our brothers, it's time we do our own catching up. (Seriously, I once overheard a woman complaining to a mechanic that he didn't fix her A/C when he changed the air filter. After listening in for a bit, I could tell that she didn't even realize that the air filter has nothing to do with the air conditioner. So, obviously, I am not the only person who lacks essential automobile basics.)
Luckily, I know a few basics to just merely taking care of a car like checking tire pressure and oil, changing the oil every 3,000-5,000 miles, I know some things need to be changed every 30,000 miles and a few others at 120,000 or so. I am capable of changing/rotating my own tires. I've learned the value of being a AAA member. But, more knowledge would be great that way the next time I am in Autozone, I don't feel like a complete idiot when I say "I need some of the green liquid thing".
So guys, have you picked any great bits of info up over the years? Have you found any helpful, easy to read, guides that you go by? Ladies, join in. :)
Oh, and we must all congratulate Alex on beginning to drive! ;D
Things I've picked up over the years:
1) If your engine doesn't seem up pick up too quickly when you turn the key, you may need a new battery, especially when you're at the point where you turn it, it doesn't do anything, and it finally starts when you turn it again. You might think you're doing something wrong, but you're not. (thank you AAA for existing)
2) This is kind of hard to describe, but if your car seems slower and harder to drive then usual, you may need new sparkplugs. Or a new coil pack. I went through two coil packs on my stang because of a manufacturer's error, and then I found out my first mechanic was a jerk and never changed one of the sparkplugs all the times I brought it in for new ones because it was in a hard to reach spot, and they were knock off sparkplugs. Luckily, I got a great mechanic who sorted that all out (anyone in the Orlando, FL area, I highly recommend Calderon (http://www.calderonauto.com/)).
3) People at JiffyLube lie, and they're too expensive.
4) If a brand new, really expensive tire suddenly ruptures while you're driving, you might want to check the air plugs (or valve, stem, whatever it's called). I've found out the hard way that if the valves are cheap, they sometimes fall off and into the tire itself. So, the thing is bouncing around inside the tire while you're driving and it causes the rubber in the tire to fall apart and then *bam* tire ruptures on the highway. Yeah. . . three tires within two months later, that was discovered. . .
5) Grinding noises when you hit the brake means you need to get your brakes checked.
Obviously, my tips aren't the best or most comprehensive. So, join in so we can all learn. :)
A good stereo is the best lube job a car can get. All those annoying squeaks and rattles just seem to disappear! :laugh:
Quote from: Devlyn Marie on September 06, 2013, 06:54:49 PM
A good stereo is the best lube job a car can get. All those annoying squeaks and rattles just seem to disappear! :laugh:
HAHAHA I'll need to upgrade my stereo!
I know a little about 'em. And what I don't know, I can generally figure out. But I don't much like doing it for other people anymore, it messes up my hands too much. But then too, I try to do my own automotive work cause I don't want to overpay someone else for crappy work.
My suggestion is to become familiar with the basic terms and theory of how cars work.
Things like knowing what the green liquid is called, why is it mixed 50/50 usually, how does it cool the engine, and doesn't that mean it gets hotter than boiling (but doesn't boil? Whats up with that?!)
Spark plugs--can you point to all 8 of them? (this is a trick question-- there's 8 only if your engine has 8 cylinders) what's a "cylinder"? Why do some cars have 4...or 6...or 8...what's the most a normal car has?
What's the relationship between the battery, the alternator, and "the nut behind the wheel"?
If the brakes are squeeky....what kind of grease should one use to stop the noise?
How many spark plugs does a diesel motor have?
What is the order of connecting jumper cables?
....etc
Seriously, by asking questions like these (and using correct terminology), one gains a good basic knowledge of how cars work.
Good luck!
:)
Who drives a car? Where I live the first car is a truck and your second car is a tractor.1990 Dodge D250
heavy duty diesel 22 mpg 500,000 plus miles bought it new have done all mtce myself,many broken nails arrrg.Second Kubota tractor with attachments makes me money with little effort love those hydraulics they never get tired. Pat
Quote from: Beth Andrea on September 06, 2013, 07:19:16 PM
How many spark plugs does a diesel motor have?
:)
True story, at a golf course where I was the assistant superintendent, I actually got the new mechanic(mostly small engine guy) to spend half an hour looking for the distributor cap on our diesel backhoe. It was hilarious...
I love the girls with all the car knowledge on the "Men, we need to talk..." thread ;D
This is why I love trans* people
If it makes anyone feel better, in all theory I've been supposed to be a guy until recently, and thus supposed to get this stuff. Yet I don't even know the very basics. Heck, if I got past my dislike for driving and got better at it and actually decided to buy a car, the only criteria I could know about would probably be fuel economy and looks.
Anyway, so I've been supposed to be a guy, yet my sister and, above her, my mother, are enormously more versed in cars than I will ever be. Oh yeah, and I haven't spoken to him in a long time, but I think my father is pretty clueless about cars too. And that one IS a real man. As far as I know anyway.
It's funny, I actually know quite a bit about cars, but to be truly honest, I don't have any desire to own one! Lol. I own a bicycle that I tend to most frequently use to get from A to B and otherwise it's transit and then last it's car share. I love car share because then I know the absolute cost. I don't need to worry about issues during a MOT, the car breaking down and the associated costs, gas, mileage, insurance, tax...the list goes on. For me I just see cars as being too expensive and that expense becomes unpredictable.
I'm also a bit of an environment nut so even though I gaze longingly at a Lotus Elise, I wouldn't own one. If I did have a car, it'd likely be some small electric car! Lol.
So for everything I do know about cars, the only time I use that knowledge is when one of my friend's cars start sounding funny and that stereo blasting no longer covers it :P.
Sorry, I'm a bike nut. ;)
The most important thing that you can do is read, know, and follow the maintenance schedule that's in the back of your owners manual. You did know that there is a maintenance schedule back there, right? :laugh:
Know how to check the fluid levels in your car. Keep a tire gauge in your glove compartment and check your tire pressure about once a month.
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. If you do nothing else change your oil and filter on schedule and your car will last a long time.
Girls are a prime target at unscrupulous auto repair shops for unnecessary services like power steering or transmission flushes. Mechanics call that practice "wallet flushes" for a reason. If a shop recommends a maintenance service that's not in your maintenance schedule they may be trying to make some extra money off of you.
Talk to your friends and find a reputable mechanic that you trust. I have been ripped off before at shops that are mainly known for other services such as mufflers, automatic transmission service, or tires. Also ask you mechanic if he is aware of services that are not in the maintenance schedule but should be done anyway periodically. One example that comes to my mind is changing the fluid and filter in your automatic transmission.
I have had some really good experiences at auto dealerships with getting work done, but you will pay for their expertise.
I'm androgyne, so I will only talk about convertibles. ::)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHkKJfcBXcw
Quote from: Jamie D on September 06, 2013, 09:08:06 PM
I'm androgyne, so I will only talk about convertibles. ::)
Let me guess...you drive with the top down?
;)
Quote from: Eva Marie on September 06, 2013, 08:56:41 PM
The most important thing that you can do is read, know, and follow the maintenance schedule that's in the back of your owners manual. You did know that there is a maintenance schedule back there, right? :laugh:
Know how to check the fluid levels in your car. Keep a tire gauge in your glove compartment and check your tire pressure about once a month.
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine. If you do nothing else change your oil and filter on schedule and your car will last a long time.
Girls are a prime target at unscrupulous auto repair shops for unnecessary services like power steering or transmission flushes. Mechanics call that practice "wallet flushes" for a reason. If a shop recommends a maintenance service that's not in your maintenance schedule they may be trying to make some extra money off of you.
Talk to your friends and find a reputable mechanic that you trust. I have been ripped off before at shops that are mainly known for other services such as mufflers, automatic transmission service, or tires. Also ask you mechanic if he is aware of services that are not in the maintenance schedule but should be done anyway periodically. One example that comes to my mind is changing the fluid and filter in your automatic transmission.
I have had some really good experiences at auto dealerships with getting work done, but you will pay for their expertise.
...Unless the used car you bought no longer has an owners' manual...or if there is one, it's in absolute mint condition.
Years ago I talked to a new guy in the military...his engine had blown up, and he didn't know why. Upon inspection, we found there was a "zero balance" in the oil department of the engine. He had no idea about checking fluids; his dad had always handled that stuff.
Point is, the used car you're buying may have some significant (or minor) mechanical issues with it...and it is these issues that will motivate one to drive to a mechanic and ask, "Hey, why is my car trying to drive into the ditch all the time?"
And at that point...you really, really need to know at least the basics of what is--and is not--under the hood.
Great questions Beth Andrea, asking usually is the best way of learning. I have 4 cylinders in my current vehicle, and I'll have to read about what exactly a cylinder is, but I think it has something to do with the engine. :D I also think the green thing is radiator fluid or antifreeze?
I have listened to Click & Clack before, I'll have to go on their website and go through their archives. :)
Quote from: Jack_M on September 06, 2013, 08:44:02 PM
It's funny, I actually know quite a bit about cars, but to be truly honest, I don't have any desire to own one! Lol. I own a bicycle that I tend to most frequently use to get from A to B and otherwise it's transit and then last it's car share. I love car share because then I know the absolute cost. I don't need to worry about issues during a MOT, the car breaking down and the associated costs, gas, mileage, insurance, tax...the list goes on. For me I just see cars as being too expensive and that expense becomes unpredictable.
I'm also a bit of an environment nut so even though I gaze longingly at a Lotus Elise, I wouldn't own one. If I did have a car, it'd likely be some small electric car! Lol.
So for everything I do know about cars, the only time I use that knowledge is when one of my friend's cars start sounding funny and that stereo blasting no longer covers it :P.
If I had the choice, I too would abandon the car. Thanks to my state government, our public transport isn't great and we have a lot of missing sidewalks. :D I could easily bike to work (ignoring the missing sidewalks and scary trucks speeding past) if I only stayed in the office all day, but I tend to do a lot of driving around for my job, I put over 50 miles on the car today and there's been times I've done over 100 miles in a day, and biking that wouldn't be time manageable. Luckily, my bosses pay me so much per mile, and I'd much rather be out visiting old ladies and filing documents than sitting in the office with them. :)
Haha, you really made the thread.
I have some knowledge about cars since my gf's dad is a diesel mechanic and her family is a ton of car guys (ack). I tried to do the car guy thing but felt my abilities would be better used in the kitchen (I love cooking/baking). However, I live in the sticks and sharing a car with the girlie just isn't cutting it any longer so buying my own.
In all honesty I really want a motorcycle but my gf is a EMT. She says she has scraped one too many bikers off the highway to even consider it. Pffft, I'll get one some day. ;)
Quote from: Si on September 06, 2013, 11:53:42 PM
In all honesty I really want a motorcycle but my gf is a EMT. She says she has scraped one too many bikers off the highway to even consider it. Pffft, I'll get one some day. ;)
I love motorycles too, I come from a biker family. We have Harleys and Indians. I suggest reading
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig. I am partway through it, and I am learning all about tuning up bikes.
while on the topic of car's can anyone recommend a good oil leak stopper that isnt gonna gunk up my engine really bad?
Basic mechanics is easy stuff,learn how to change engine oil,oil/air filters plugs and tighten fan belts.Also keeping your engine/transmission fluids at the correct level and tyre pressures.Learn how to do body repairs,touch up paint chips,scratches,fill in holes and dents and welding.Depending where you live rust sends more cars to the scrap yard than anything.I live in the UK and rust is a big problem so keeping on top of body work is a big must do.
If you can't do it yourself don't take it to a main dealer unless you have a lot of money.Ask around with people who have the same car and they should be able to tell you someone who does good work at a reasonable price
I know how to change Sparkplugs, install a cold air intake, change a tire, install bumpers and other body components, switch out the full headlight and tail light assemblies, Install speakers and stereo systems, switch out and install seats...... I suppose it would be easier to say I dont do engine swaps, new exausts, and transmissions. You can learn a thing or two just by doing with family or a Haynes manual ;)
Jet Engines on the other hand I do know. ^_^
I love karting and race games, but frankly I know really little about cars, lol. Okay, I know how an engine (basically) works, what spark plugs, cilinders, etc. are, but no way I can pinpoint them under the hood, leave alone I can FIX them! Lol.
I contribute it to my lazyness and lack of a CAR under my possession. I'm 18, but I don't have a driver's licence yet, nor am I taking lessons. My parents told me they'd either pay my study OR lessons + exam for a driver's licence, so then it wasn't too difficult to choose, lol. And I don't have money to pay it myself.
So although I know a bit about basic mechanics, I lack the practical knowledge to properly check or fix a car.
I really like Top Gear though, but you don't have to like cars to like it, LOL! And I also like big racing/muscle cars, but even if I could pay one I'd never own one either, cause they are VERY bad for the environment, and yep... I'm quite an environment nut too.
Come on guys! this is embarrassing! It looks to me like the chicks are blowing you guys off the road with car knowledge. :P
You have to know something. Everywhere I've worked, at some point, 3 things have come up in conversation with male colleagues and friends: Cars, Women and Hunting. So if you own a car, get to know it. read the owner's manual or read owner reviews and learn your model's quirks and bad points. If you don't own a car, go to a lot and look at different makes and models. Everyone has a dream car. Mine is an '88 Chevy Camaro IROC-Z in red with the T-Tops. Now go look that up. Learn about it.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.cargurus.com%2Fimages%2Fsite%2F2006%2F11%2F05%2F1985_chevrolet_camaro_iroc_z_coupe-pic-25500.jpeg&hash=6aa2bf64343614ee36ea368cd2478432c421f41f)
Find your dream car, post it here and tell us why you like it.
Find a buddy to help you learn about cars. I'm sure any of us women who have posted on here would be happy to answer questions. It's not about creating stereotypes here. It's about giving you the knowledge to deal with car talk. Have something you can talk about instead of a blank look. ;)
Find your dream car, post it here and tell us why you like it
'65 red Mustang. I love classic cars, and I used to have a '04 Mustang anni edition, V-6, and I loved it (my dad has it now, see, I am really nice and traded him for a '01 four cylinder Ford Focus). It was really fast for a 6 cylinder. I just really like mustangs, and I'd love to get another one of any year again. I tend to like older stuff
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GKkZDzOtaLU
I also like the '76 Pontiac trans am with the firebird, because of the Kill Bill movies. Elle was just so hot driving it (I think she had an '80). :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLBCq4YSWK4
Quote from: big kim on September 07, 2013, 02:19:54 AM
Basic mechanics is easy stuff,learn how to change engine oil,oil/air filters plugs and tighten fan belts.Also keeping your engine/transmission fluids at the correct level and tyre pressures.Learn how to do body repairs,touch up paint chips,scratches,fill in holes and dents and welding.Depending where you live rust sends more cars to the scrap yard than anything.I live in the UK and rust is a big problem so keeping on top of body work is a big must do.
If you can't do it yourself don't take it to a main dealer unless you have a lot of money.Ask around with people who have the same car and they should be able to tell you someone who does good work at a reasonable price
One of the best investments you can make is to get yourself a repair manual specific to your car model and year. I recommend Haynes. They show you step by step with pictures how to do your own repairs.
Oh good, I'll check out Haynes, I need pictures to do stuff.
Quote from: Erik Ezrin on September 07, 2013, 03:02:27 AMMy parents told me they'd either pay my study OR lessons + exam for a driver's licence, so then it wasn't too difficult to choose, lol.
The heck. I don't think I would offer that kind of choice. "To hell with my studies, I wanna work in a factory but get there in a CAR." - "Darling, what have we done?"
Edit: What is this? Auto-censorship for selected bad words? I feel like I'm playing an online game with doubtful design decisions.
Quote from: Teela Renee on September 07, 2013, 01:43:32 AM
while on the topic of car's can anyone recommend a good oil leak stopper that isnt gonna gunk up my engine really bad?
just making sure this didnt get missed/looked over.
Quote from: Teela Renee on September 07, 2013, 12:06:01 PM
just making sure this didnt get missed/looked over.
New gasket/seals/O ring is the cure.It depends were the leak is from,easy leaks to repair are valve covers and split breather hoses and pipes.Transmission leaks can be hard to fix,especially where the gearbox fixes to the engine as it means splitting them apart.A gasket or seal is very cheap but the labour cost by a garage working by the hour will be much larger.
Quote from: Keaira Raine on September 07, 2013, 03:31:19 AM
Come on guys! this is embarrassing! It looks to me like the chicks are blowing you guys off the road with car knowledge. :P
You have to know something. Everywhere I've worked, at some point, 3 things have come up in conversation with male colleagues and friends: Cars, Women and Hunting. So if you own a car, get to know it. read the owner's manual or read owner reviews and learn your model's quirks and bad points. If you don't own a car, go to a lot and look at different makes and models. Everyone has a dream car. Mine is an '88 Chevy Camaro IROC-Z in red with the T-Tops. Now go look that up. Learn about it.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.cargurus.com%2Fimages%2Fsite%2F2006%2F11%2F05%2F1985_chevrolet_camaro_iroc_z_coupe-pic-25500.jpeg&hash=6aa2bf64343614ee36ea368cd2478432c421f41f)
Find your dream car, post it here and tell us why you like it.
Find a buddy to help you learn about cars. I'm sure any of us women who have posted on here would be happy to answer questions. It's not about creating stereotypes here. It's about giving you the knowledge to deal with car talk. Have something you can talk about instead of a blank look. ;)
My favourite car which I can't post pictures of is the 67/68 Mercury Cougar, I love the hidden headlamps and the sequential tailights Inside it has nice leather seats and a wooden dashboard and door cappings,it's also a sensible size for UK roads and parking spaces/garages and if fitted with a small block V8 engine and driven carefully gives reasonable mileage. Great looks and plenty of performance and luxury/comfort.My first proper boyfriend had a black cherry 68 with a 302 V8 4 barrel and automatic box although I wanted one when I saw a new lime frost green one near a USAF base as a kid
Hey, this thread is sexist! Women shouldn't be excluded >:(
I'll have you know that I under plenty of things about cars. For example..... uh I can drive one and....... they go vrom vrom. So there!
;)
Oooh! Learnedhand, Big Kim, great choice in cars. I've wanted an IROC-Z since I was 8 years old and this show was on:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2Z1yLO9C-Q
When I look at the real world vehicles that the toys were based on, I keep thinking how much a live-action movie would be.
80's cartoons had a lot of influence over me. lol. I call my Shotgun, 'Sarah Jane' because it was the name of a shotgun carried by Bravestarr's sidekick, 30/30
This used to be my dream car: 1979 Red Chevrolet Corvette
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fhooniverse.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F02%2F1979_corvette_2.jpg&hash=1eedf56b043acf26d85b47b427502b85a172a618)
Then it changed to this: 1957 whatever color this is Chevrolet Corvette
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fproteamcorvette.com%2Fcars%2Fphotos%2F1021A.jpg&hash=0976d23e080fd329f5298b4c1bc4125296a497c9)
Then it changed to this: 2004 Mazda RX-8 with Lambo doors
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fcarphotos.cardomain.com%2Fride_images%2F3%2F2090%2F1741%2F30223370001_large.jpg&hash=5c5b3d566364dde7d15580dda0ddcd5972032b20)
And now it's this: 2013 Lamborghini Aventador
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2F8%2F80%2FGeneva_MotorShow_2013_-_Lamborghini_Aventador_red.jpg%2F800px-Geneva_MotorShow_2013_-_Lamborghini_Aventador_red.jpg&hash=3b2788bbd411ae5e0d8e1fa07c8ab899a14da125)
Oh yeah, why I like them. I like the way they look and they go fast.
Oh those are nice cars Alice. One of my co-worker's father just got a reddish Corvette, not sure the year but in the 2000s. It was so nice I think I'd be afraid to drive it, but she took it to work and was itching all day to go on a nice field trip down so long winding roads lol. :)
I got to drive my step-mom's BMW Z4
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.carenvy.ca%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2009%2F08%2FIMG_0185-1024x768.jpg&hash=468df8b74183a3b39c6e659a0f5c22ba70c211a4)
You know that thing where people don't move out of the passing lane when you come up behind them? Doesn't happen in this car. I've never driven anything like it before, it was just so easy to drive.
ahhh passing privilege. Can be so nice, no matter which context you put it in.
Not my dream car, but of all the ones I've had, it was my favorite.
A '77 tbird, still with the good old working 8 track player it came with and original paint job.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi686.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fvv228%2Fjaime_r_d%2F77tbird.jpg&hash=6f660d52be4230d986b440b643355d7c6fbb1c1d)
and that first picture was a few years after this picture during Hurricane Isabel in '03.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi686.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fvv228%2Fjaime_r_d%2FDSC00619.jpg&hash=19f659e7b5e844464349e4c52294d6c34417fb06)
It took me about 2 days and a $100 to get it back to good running shape and everything working. Luckily I cut the battery cable before the salt water got too high, so even the starter worked fine after a good washing and drying, lol.
There's been a lot of cars I liked but while I was working for Valeo Sylvania making headlights and tail lights, they began to remind me of my job and since I hated the job and the design of the molds and all the defects that I dealt with, I would cus at them every time I passed them. I have some decent bragging rights though. I worked on the newer Ford Mustangs lighting, Jeep Grand Cherokee (Including the latest model) Toyota Rav 4, Cadillac STX or SXT or whatever its called, Toyota Matrix (I hate that car so much because of the headlight bezels alone. I even told a Toyota Engineer that if I ever won a Toyota Matrix I would set it on fire and drive over it with a very large pickup truck multiple times than ever get in one of those.) And shortly before I left I worked on the 2014 Corvette, Silverado and Malibu. So, I know more about cars than I thought I would and wanted. lol
The best advice I can give is to check the manual for your car. In the back, there's a maintenance schedule. When I found this, all of a sudden, my yearly budget increased by at least 2K. Basically, look at the maintenance schedule, skip ahead, figure out what all the things are that need to be changed, maintained, and rotated. Then go to google and figure that stuff out! After that, everything that can break down and be done by a mechanic is something that really SHOULD be done by a mechanic (Welding, changing out major parts, etc.)
Also, buy foreign cars. Parts, maintenance, and other things are generally cheaper and interchangeable between brands.
Unless you're talking about VW, Audi, Mercedes, BMW, Land Rover, Range Rover, etc. Those cars major components are expensive. I dont know about Mini Coopers or Fiat 500's though. Of the US brands, Ford and Chevy are cheaper. Kia Nd Hyundai have amazing warranties. Honda has a reputation of building tanks that will run forever. Mitsubishi and Toyota also make some great vehicles. A word about Toyotas though. It could apply to any vehicle that has the push to start feature, but a few weeks ago after the VJ parade, an old man and his wife were stuck because their push to start car would not work. It just died. I looked after the car while they went to walmart with their grandson to get a new keyfob battery. That didnt do it, so it was eventually hauled off.
and Nissan are too proud of their stuff.
Quote from: Beth Andrea on September 06, 2013, 09:45:27 PM
...Unless the used car you bought no longer has an owners' manual...or if there is one, it's in absolute mint condition.
You want the maintenance schedule that's in the owner's manual. Owner's manuals are available from other sources, such as the parts department at the dealer, or on Ebay. The maintenance schedule itself may be found in a Chilton's or a Haynes manual (I think - I haven't bought one in a long time), or on the internet.
I recently completed a multi-year frame off restoration on a late 70's sports car and I located an owner's manual for that car on ebay.
Quote from: Teela Renee on September 07, 2013, 01:43:32 AM
while on the topic of car's can anyone recommend a good oil leak stopper that isnt gonna gunk up my engine really bad?
Use vlavoline maxlife oil. It's got 5% oil seal sweller.
I could try and explain why the following is my dream car with things like the Lotus racing games being a favourite of mine as a kid. How I started with loving the Lotus Seven and just modernising as I learnt more about more present day cars. I could go into the specs...or I could just show you this photo and simply say, "Why is this my dream car? Look at the picture!" :P
This is my dream car and yes, in this colour: the Lotus Elise:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fc%2Fc4%2FLotus_Elise_at_Indy_Concours.jpg&hash=ab8637d8a03eb463fc5a3f77c5c2ae6c477b9ab2)
Quote from: Jack_M on September 12, 2013, 11:56:33 AM
I could try and explain why the following is my dream car with things like the Lotus racing games being a favourite of mine as a kid. How I started with loving the Lotus Seven and just modernising as I learnt more about more present day cars. I could go into the specs...or I could just show you this photo and simply say, "Why is this my dream car? Look at the picture!" :P
This is my dream car and yes, in this colour: the Lotus Elise:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fc%2Fc4%2FLotus_Elise_at_Indy_Concours.jpg&hash=ab8637d8a03eb463fc5a3f77c5c2ae6c477b9ab2)
Oooh, I really like this one. Although, I think I would like a dark blue for me though!
Quote from: Beth Andrea on September 06, 2013, 07:19:16 PM
Things like knowing what the green liquid is called, why is it mixed 50/50 usually, how does it cool the engine, and doesn't that mean it gets hotter than boiling (but doesn't boil? Whats up with that?!)
But how do I check it on my VW bug?
QuoteIf the brakes are squeeky....what kind of grease should one use to stop the noise?
Learn to recognize that squeaky sound. It means your brakes should be replaced soon. If they are grinding, they are really bad and it is dangerous to drive on them.
QuoteWhat is the order of connecting jumper cables?
Positive to Positive, Negative to Ground. No, not the ground below your feet. A grounding spot on the car (bare metal). Oh great, now I have to learn how electronics work too!
Quote from: Beth Andrea on September 06, 2013, 09:45:27 PMUpon inspection, we found there was a "zero balance" in the oil department of the engine. He had no idea about checking fluids; his dad had always handled that stuff.
And that warning light for the oil has nothing to do with the level in the engine. Don't expect it to light up when you are low. It's for the oil pressure.
Tips:
If your car is over heating and you can't pull over to fix it, turn on the heat in the car. Put it on full. I had to do this once in the middle of the desert. We were melting by the time we found a gas station, but we made it ok.
Learn how to check the air pressure in your tires. It's more than simple and may prevent you from getting a flat while driving.
If it is a cold day, and you hear a thumping sound and it feels like the car is thumping as you drive away after stopping for a long time, one or more of your tires are low. Put some air in them now!
Also, learn how to change the tire on your car. I can change a tire in about ten minutes. Why wait an hour for road service to come.
Just remember, loosen the bolts BEFORE you jack up the car and finish tightening them after you put the car back down.
Ugg. I know how to work on cars because it was a "manly" thing to do and make me "ungay" to anyone who might suspect me being trans. It helps A LOT when you take it into a shop for diagnosis/work. I've caught "mechanics" trying to trick me, and I call them on their dishonesty. ;D I do a good 95% of my own work but I can't do everything. Much of what I can do is self taught, but a lot of reading manuals helps.
To be honest, I'd rather take the bus but it is a pain in the ass sometimes.
I'm not a car guy. I'm a truck and heavy equipment kind of guy. :P
I baby my darling vehicles, I'm that annoying person doing 65 on the highway...doesn't really matter though because even if I did go the speed limit or even over, people would still be consistently passing me. Apparently the speed limit is secretly 80.
Here's a few car related tips:
1.) Mind your oil!
2.) If you suck at directions, get a map(book). As long as you can find the interstate, you can at least find your way home.
3.) If you're doing a long road trip, just follow the signs to the major cities on your route.
4.) Watch where you're going, don't text or constantly fiddle with the baby in the back. Just don't. Seriously. Hey, I'm talking to you, don't do it.
5.) If you lack context for what a 4.3 engine is, the smaller the number, the smaller the truck is apt to be. The bigger the number, the bigger the truck. Example: A Ford Ranger with a 2.3 vs a Chevrolet 1500 with a 5.3 vs a semi tractor with a 12.0
6.) The only relevance engine size has to me is in getting the correct parts and smaller engine sizes getting me better mpg. I'm not such a nut as to rant about engine size, torque and horse power.
7.) Don't drive a Pontiac Aztec or a Chevy Avalanche or Avalanche lookalikes, I'm seriously considering smashing your car and setting it on fire.
8.) Also, check your lights every once in a while. Not only is seeing a light out annoying to me, it can get you a ticket.
That's all I can think of for now, if I think of anything else I'll give you a call. Oh yeah and give big rigs or car haulers space. It can be much harder to stop those, and if they hit you you'll definitely be sorry.
Funny thing is I actually got into cars AFTER transition, I think because I was more comfortable with myself - like I'm ok being a girl grease monkey but not a guy one.
Some things I've picked up in the years since then: if your A/C does not work, it does not "need a recharge". The A/C is a closed system and the "freon" does not run out. If your A/C is blowing hot air, it is because you have a leak or your compressor is seized up. There are two types of leaks: in the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the system. If your leak is in the high pressure side, adding "freon" will leak out very quickly. If you have a very slow leak in the low pressure side you might go a few months or even a couple years in rare cases by adding freon, but ultimately the reason you don't have any is because it leaked out, not because you ran out. :)
If your car won't start:
If it turns over and does not start, you are not getting fuel or spark most likely.
If it does not turn over (or turns over weakly, or just clicks) and you have power, it is probably your starter. If it does not turn over and you have no power, it is likely your battery or alternator.
The most common causes of engine damage is lack of heating or lack of oil. Change your oil regularly and do not run it low. Make sure you have plenty of water too and if you are leaking water you may have a dying water pump. Most will leak before dying completely. If the water pump dies you can get stuck on the side of the road with the "hottest car in town".
A car that starts, makes a lot of noise, then dies it probably has a vacuum leak.
Squeaky brakes means it is time to change your brakes.
Great tips ladies! I never knew that about the AC Roxane, is it cheaper to get more freon added or fix the leak?
Quote from: LearnedHand on September 13, 2013, 09:31:19 PM
Great tips ladies! I never knew that about the AC Roxane, is it cheaper to get more freon added or fix the leak?
Beware buying a car with a broken A/C.It can be very expensive, a guy I worked with bought a used 15 year old Chrysler Neon in good order and with straight body work from an old lady who gave up driving for safety reasons.The A/C had broken,not really a problem in the UK but it is nice to have,the cheapest repair quote he go twas £475 more than the price of the car!
Same goes for anything else,if you know something is broken check out the cost of repair/replacement before that cheap car turns into an expensive one.Avoid cheap high end cars,a cheap BMW,Mercedes,Jaguar, Cadillac etc. will very soon become an expensive one!Buy a decent straight Ford,Vauxhall,Chevy.Toyota etc instead
IThis is my pride and joy. I built it from the ground up. It's very economical to drive too. It runs on Energon.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi688.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fvv246%2FKeairaElisabeth%2FBeautyPic_zps46b0abe9.png&hash=6f92711d2871dcc3492fa21df6d20c38f3df0d3d)
I learned to change a cars oil, does that count? :D I prefer motorcycles btw.
Quote from: Keaira Raine on September 14, 2013, 05:03:02 AM
This is my pride and joy. I built it from the ground up. It's very economical to drive too. It runs on Energon.
Is that a "Pete"? Drive a Classic Freightliner lately, not first choice but hey, Home Every Night!
Saw a beautiful two toned white/red '56 Chevy Belair convertible (http://classiccars.com/listings/view/444907/1956-chevrolet-bel-air-for-sale-in-charlotte-north-carolina-28269) with cushy seats the other day . . .
Anyone here know where the gas fill is?
Under the tail light,it swings to one side and the filler is revealed.I had a 1970 Vauxhall Cresta were the filler was under the flip up number plate.I had an angry crowd behind me at the garage as I couldn't find it,neither could the guy who worked there.The guy I bought it from was out of town,I had to park it up til he got back and showed me.
Quote from: LearnedHand on September 13, 2013, 09:31:19 PM
Great tips ladies! I never knew that about the AC Roxane, is it cheaper to get more freon added or fix the leak?
A/C is super expensive to fix at shops. Like $800-$2000! When I've had broken A/C, I've taken it in and ask to see why the A/C is broken (playing dumb). They will tell me where it is leaking, I replace the part myself (always also replace the dryer if you have to replace other stuff, and it's cheap/easy on most cars), then take it back to get it recharged - in my state you can't charge A/C yourself - some states you can though. Not sure about other countries.
It's almost always better to just fix the A/C or deal without it. If the leak is in the high pressure side, your freon will be gone in less than a day.
I thought freon was a prohibited substance in fridges and all cooling devices since, like, 1990, because it pollutes really badly. Is it different in the US?
Quote from: A on September 14, 2013, 11:35:52 AM
I thought freon was a prohibited substance in fridges and all cooling devices since, like, 1990, because it pollutes really badly. Is it different in the US?
That's why I put it in quotes. It's like calling photocopying xeroxing or calling a tissue a kleenex.
I see. I honestly thought freon was the name of a molecule/chemical product rather than a brand name.
(Also, I honestly thought they used something like water in those. xD)