By Nathan Oram

Car clocks are very essential accessories of cars which provide passengers the facility to keep a track of time while travelling or racing. Clocks are necessary in any type of car whether it is a racing car, sports car, a passenger car or a family car.

Clocks in car have been in use since ages. Earlier, there were mechanical model of clocks which could be mounted on the interior parts of a car like dashboard, steering wheel, rear view mirror etc. And with the advent of new technology clocks are changing in their form and design very frequently. Every day you see a new design and form of clocks used in cars.

There are different types of clocks which are used in cars, some of which are listed below:

1. Traditional Car Watches: These clocks were formerly used to keep an eye on time while driving. These watches used to come in Quartz style. They could be mounted on interior parts of car like steering wheel, dashboard etc.
2. Analog Car Watches: These watches display time when you position your hand on the dial. But these watches are not as good functionally and face mechanical problems very frequently. They are also not visible in the dark.
3. Digital Car Watches: They are very good functionally and are loaded with different types of features. This type of clock displays time digitally and its features include the options of alarm and date settings. You can use the alarm clock very easily. You just need to set the alarm timings and it will buzz at the set time. Along with having an eye on the time of the day you can also see the date and day. These watches have LED display, enabling the user to see time even in dark.

Thus, these are some of the car watches which are an important accessory in a car. Nowadays, almost every car provides clock facility and, generally, most of the car manufacturers mount the clock on the lighting circuit of the car.

By Amit Kothial

It is very hard to deny the fact that buying a used car always involves some sort of risks. In fact, you may not be very sure whether the car is accident-free or mileage mentioned is real or not. Adding to this, you may also be not very sure about the maintenance of the car. The chances are very high that there may have some hidden problems or areas of concern that you need to know, but due to lack of negligence you may never identify them. Therefore, you need to be concerned about previous body damage or service problems. It is because of these reasons you must go for a comprehensive inspection of any used car seriously that you are looking forward to buy. Here are few simple yet most essential tips or steps that can help you in having the proper inspection and buy a proper used car:

Tip. No.1- Examine the exterior of the used car- The external appearance of a car always matters. In fact, it is only the exterior appearance that grabs the first impression and so you have to very sure about it. This is the most basic level of inspection and here are few essential factors that you must examine before buying a used car:

1. Look at the door latches and hinges for signs of rust or even any sort of damage.
2. Also have an inspection of the gas cap and ensure whether you have any difficulty to open it or not.
3. Check the paint from different angles. If you find one of the panels appearing shinier than the rest of the car then there are chances that it might be painted recently.
4. Check for scratches. The chances are very high that you may find scratches that may be normal, deep. However, you must note that deep scratches are a signal for potential rust.

Tip. No.2- Examine the condition of tyres - Walk around and try to pay close attention to the condition of the car tyres. You have to be very sure about the condition of car tyres, like you must be very sure whether there is any uneven wear. Any uneven wear is a major signal of alignment problems. Though it is an old trick from the Shell answer man, but still holds the major importance. Also, after inspection if you find out that there is any mechanical defect such as cuts then ensure to get it replaced as soon as possible.

Tip.No.3- Check the interior of the used car also- The interior of the used car is another good indicator and prime element that may further help you in knowing how well the car has been taken care of. You need to check the interior of car for tears in upholstery and general appearance. Perhaps some of the few areas that you can or must examine are:

1. Look at the driver's seat and try to find out whether it is excessively worn or not.
2. Examine the seat belts particularly to the one at the driver's seat.
3. Also check the electrical features of interior electrical accessories.
4. Perform the test operation of power windows locks and other features.
5. Try to check the function of test wipers and windshield washer as well.

Tip.No.4 - Try to examine the condition of the engine as well- Lift the hood and check the condition of engine. Try to have a look at the engine's overall sanitation. In fact, you must examine very closely for any sort of rust on the exhaust manifold and oil leaks around the valve cover or even head gasket.

There are various other things as well under the hood that can too help you in finding the maintenance of the car as well, like burnt smell of oil under the hood or even poorly corroded battery terminals are few other signs of poor maintenance. Moreover, the condition of engine oil is yet another factor that can also help you in knowing the condition of engine. You can easily examine the oil on the dipstick by rubbing it against your thumb. Now in case, if you feel some sort of small particles in the oil, the chances are that engine may be worn or have any other problems.

Tip.No.5- Take the used car for a test drive- Finally you must go for a test drive. This is the most vital step and may help you in making a correct decision of whether you need to buy the used car or not. However, there are few important areas that you must take care while performing a test drive, like:

1. The used car should start easily even if it's cold.
2. The car shouldn't shake or even make extreme noise and smoke.
3. The steering should be very responsive and easy to handle
4. The car must not make creaking sounds when driving over bumps.
5. The car must be able to hold a straight direction even steering out of center.
6. The car brakes must be very effective. It shouldn't squeal and must be capable to bring the car to a stop in a sufficiently short distance.

The list could be endless, but following few of the most essential points and tips as mentioned above can help you a lot in inspecting a used car easily. You may be buying a used car, but it still involves substantial money investment and so you must not ignore inspecting it properly. An inspection is not always an assurance that your car will never have problems, but can be considered a major step in overcoming car maintenance problems that you may face afterward.

By Amit Kothial

With the beginning of every fiscal year the global automobile market witness the launch and introduction of different new cars. Especially in the month of April, as a new fiscal year begins, various car manufacturing companies go for up-gradations in their present existing car models and introduce all-new car models. In fact, redesigning and updating the present existing car models with greater frequency have been the major trend that the auto industry has been following for many years. This year too, the anticipations are very high among car lovers and the search for new cars is going to be once again very tricky with the introduction of new brand cars. Starting from utility vehicles to sports sedans, this year too car lovers can expect something more in order to suit their choice and price range. Therefore, in this new fiscal year if you are looking to purchase a new car then here are some of the best brand new car models that you must look for:

BMW X1- In the month of April, BMW is going to introduce a brand new car model X1 in the Australian auto market. Featuring fully variable Valvetronic management, variable double-Vanos camshaft adjustment and an adaptable intake system, this new X1 model can easily accelerate to 100km/h in 9.7 seconds. Talking in terms of its exterior look, at the front, the peculiarly shaped bonnet and the dynamic three-eye look of the headlights actually makes a striking impact, and the L-shaped taillights in combination with the horizontal flow of lines visually broaden the rear view. It features agile handling, spirited acceleration along with a decent ride and a well-finished interior which definitely makes it more impressive.

Volvo C30 - The much awaited and expected new car model from Volvo is also going to be introduced in the market in April, 2010. This new affordable Volvo C30 is going to be class on its own as it will represent safety, quality and eco-friendliness in its best form. The model is best in its range and guaranteed to offer the most composed handling, stylish looks and a classy, well-built interior.

Fiat 500- This year, all those who have always admired and loved driving Fiat car models are going to witness Fiat's first Abarth model in Australia. Provided with unique features such as 17-inch wheels, bigger brakes, firmer suspension and an even wilder body kit will make it pleasure to drive. It is a perfect model of ardently designed car that contains everything starting from superior, technological, and refined accessories. The car is also going to be loaded with great features like electric drive door mirrors, airbags, anti-lock brakes, leather steering wheel and folding and adjustable rear seat. It can be considered as the vintage Fiat's iconic car model that is going to give you a comfortable and joyful driving experience.

Nissan Altima- The Altima has always been one of top-rated family sedans for years, and this year too its refreshing model for 2010 is going to get much better. The new model will have an improved gas mileage and expected to feature standard ESC in all the trim lines. The all new Altima is also expected to offer an appealing balance of comfort and performance. The interior cabin is more spacious and well finished. With features like secure handling and spirited acceleration, this new Nissan Altima is going to make your driving more pleasurable.

Volkswagen Polo GTI- Car lovers in the month of April are going to witness the launch of the fifth-generation Polo as well. This brand new car model will be available in three-door and five-door hatch body styles. Adding to this, the model will also be available with three engines including a 77kw/175Nm 1.2 litre turbo petrol engine. Adding to this, the new model is also going to have a very sleek exterior featuring body coloured bumper and dashing front grille. Moreover, you may even get amazed after having a look at its interiors that includes some of the most prominent features such as dual tone dashboard, leather covered steering wheel & gear knob along with relaxed and sporty seats. Apart from all these, this new model is also going to score high on safety features as it includes ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution) along with Hill Hold Control that may further enhance the stability while driving.

These are some of the best car models that you can expect to witness in various showrooms and running on the road in the year 2010. So by now if you have decided to buy any of these models, the next best thing you must perform is a proper research regarding the authentic dealers as well. No doubt, owning a car does matter, but the importance of having a good car evaluation and selection process cannot be ignored. Buying a new car involves a good sum of money and it is always better to have a car that can give you true value for money.

By Derry Dharmawan

If you watch the MTV Pimp My Ride show, maybe people do not have to spend money in order to get their car to look cool. Xzibit will visit their homes if they have a bad vehicle or the vehicle is not eligible to drive. Then their cars will be repaired and modified in one of the best car modification workshops.

From the bodywork, paint, engine to rims will be modified totally, and also will be added some luxurious accessories that will make a bad car to be a very cool car and it will make the owners have a high confidence when driving it.

What about you, will Xzibit come to your home? If you are not sure, don't waste your time. Make sure that your financial condition is able to buy custom cars for sale because at the present time, there are a lot of car modification workshops and websites that provide custom cars for sale.

Due to the economy fails, many people are forced to sell their cars, accessories or car items that they are really don't need. Therefore, at the present time, buying custom cars for sale become easier than previous years.

There are many ways to get custom cars for sale, start from looking through your local newspapers, or you can find car modification houses on your down town streets and also you can find one through online. Just type "custom cars for sale" on the reliable search engine such as Google, Yahoo, MSN and Ask, and then choose one of the websites. Usually, the websites will show you custom car pictures and custom car prices.

If there are car modification clubs in your town, maybe you can ask them how to find one. Some of members are experienced in having custom cars, and also they will welcome if someone asks them about that. So, they wouldn't mind if you ask some questions about car modifications in order to get the best deals.

The car that you choose must fit with the type and shape that you like and of course must be suitable with the budget that you have. In selecting custom cars, you should give priority to the form of rims, because the rims can influence the shape and the exterior appearance of a vehicle. Although the bodywork is not changed significantly, but if the selection of rims is suitable with the character of the car, then the car still remain have the impressive shape.

In addition to rims, maybe another exterior part that you have to consider is the quality of paint. If the paint has chipped or worn, the car looks less stylish and bad. If you find a vehicle like this, you should re-negotiate about the price. Ask for discounts to replace the painting costs.

For interior and engine, there is no significant modification. However, if you are lucky, you'll get interior and very impressive engine. However, if you have enough budgets in selecting custom cars for sale, you should not hesitate in choosing your dream car since you will get whatever you want.

By Max Galgano

If you are thinking of buying a portable car heater the information in this article can help you select one that is appropriate for your needs. The good news is that there are many well made products on the market today and they are very affordable. These products are also known as ceramic heaters, 12 volt car heaters, portable ceramic heaters and other names, but for the purposes of this orientation we will refer to them as portable car heaters.

You probably live in an area that experiences cold temperatures in the winter months. The cold weather brings about unique problems for those who face the daily routine of getting into their car each morning in freezing temperatures anxiously awaiting the car's heating system to begin blowing warm air! As you know, the typical several minute wait for heat can be very uncomfortable and on those really cold mornings - almost unbearable! With the portable heaters available today, you no longer have to endure freezing temperatures each morning as you drive to work or to take your children to school.

Most designs plug into your car's cigarette lighter socket or other 12 volt power outlet. They are very effective for quickly warming the interior of your car and they can also help defrost your windshield and other windows.

The following is a list of things you should consider when selecting a portable car heater;

Climate: Does the climate you live in have winter temperatures so frigid that you'll need a heavy-duty model capable of producing higher temperatures than some models are capable of? Do you live in an area which has frequent ice storms that ice up your windshield when driving? If so, you should carefully research which of these products are best rated for their defrosting capabilities. As you can see, the climate you live in will determine which type of heater is best suited for your needs.

Design: Does the shape and size of the design you are considering mesh well with the area you'd want to place it in your car? Will it stay safely and securely on your dashboard or other location you will place it on? Does it have fastening or anchoring features that will effectively anchor it where you place it? One common complaint among users of portable ceramic heaters is that they often are distracted when driving because the heater is sliding all over the dashboard, falling to the floor of the car, fails to stay pointed in the desired direction, etc. Take a look at the interior of your vehicle and think about where you'd place the device. Once you decide on the probable locations you can then search for a model that sized and designed appropriately for your car.

Power Cord: A major consideration that can greatly affect the usefulness of the variant you purchase. If you are thinking of using a 12 volt car heater for defrosting the rear windows, does the model you are considering have a power cord long enough to reach a power outlet? Perhaps you are buying it for use by passengers in the rear seats - will the cord allow adequate movement and placement of the heater? Most 12 volt models come with power cords ranging from one to several feet in length and you should consider this factor when doing your research.

Mobility and Adjust-ability: Many users move the device to various locations in the car's interior before or while driving. Some models are designed to be more static or permanently anchored than others and you should factor this in when you do your research. Some models come with suction cups to be used for fastening and anchoring, while others are designed to simply rest on a dashboard or car seat with no means of attachment. Consider how much you'd want to move your portable heater prior to selecting one - some are much better suited for frequent repositioning than others. Also, many, but not all models possess the capability to be adjusted so the angle of air flow can be targeted to precise locations on your windshield, a specific portion of your car's interior, etc.

Safety: Safety is a primary concern and should be well researched prior to making purchase decisions. In the past, some models have been known to overheat, causing a fire hazard. When it comes to the safety record of any specific model that you are considering, we recommend that you search the internet for users reviews and recall notices from manufacturers. Like many other products, portable car heaters come in various levels of quality and design safety and you must exercise due diligence prior to selecting a model or design for purchase.

Some of the better portable car heaters are produced under the trade names Roadpro, Koolatron, Thermtec, Pelonis and Delonghi. They can be purchased from various local stores that sell automobile parts and accessories. There are numerous online merchants offering these items and some of the major dealers are J.C. Whitney, Target, Ace Hardware, Amazon and Sears to name just a few.

By Ryan Draving

Custom car covers are designed to fit specific makes and models of cars. A custom car cover will conform to the body shape and contours of your car. In some cases cars with similar body types may use the same car cover but it will still fit all models snuggly and securely. Outdoor car covers are made to be water resistant and to help protect your car when it is parked outside whether it is in a parking lot or in your driveway.

There are many things that can harm your automobile's finish, including animals, pedestrians, and natural hazards. If you park under trees for the shade you could end up with tree sap all over your car. Tree sap can be very difficult to get off of a car without messing up the paint. An outdoor car cover can prevent the sap from reaching your paint finish. Bird droppings are very damaging to your car's paint because of the acidic properties of the droppings. They can cause discoloration of the paint and can even eat through the paint. A car cover can prevent the bird dropping from sitting on your car and causing damage.

Another element that is found outdoors that can cause damage to your auto's paint finish is acid rain. Acid rain refers to the acidic elements in rain, fog, dew or snow which comes from air pollutants. The main sources of these air pollutants come from vehicles and industrial plants and factories.

The harmful UV rays from the sun can fade and crack your car's paint finish. The rays of the sun can also damage the interior of your car, especially the dashboard. Most outdoor car covers have heat reflective properties which protect your vehicle from the harmful sun. In the summertime a light color outdoor cover will also keep the interior of your car cooler.

There are outdoor covers designed to keep out the dirt and dust that can be abrasive to your car's surface. Dirt and dust may seem harmless but in actuality it contains tiny particles of sand and dirt that can scratch the surface of your car. A heavy duty outdoor car cover which is especially designed to have multiple layers will keep the tiny dirt particles from reach your car.

An occasional rain will not pose any real threat to your car but if your car sits outside unprotected all the time in the rain it can damage your car's paint and body. Rain that is allowed to sit on the car can get into tiny scratches and start corroding away the metal of your car body. If you use a water resistant outdoor car cover you will keep your car dry and protected.

In the winter time it is not the cold that can ruin your vehicle's paint finish it is the moisture and salt. The combination of these two corrosive elements can cause havoc to your paint job. If you use a water resistant outdoor cover you will help protect your car in the cold winter months. Just remember to clean off your car before you cover it so it will stay looking like new.

By Christopher P Clark


When you think of pedal cars, you probably assume that they're just a children's toy. Well, you'd be wrong. Across the world, thousands of adult collectors enjoy them. They may purchase an original or restored version of a vintage car, or even a newer model designed to look like one of these classics.

A growing area of pedal car collecting is in customization. This involves the process of turning a vintage or newer car into your own unique design. In fact, it is much the same as customizing a real hot rod, except that there are no interior parts that you'll need to upgrade.

Although they can be found in many different styles today, some collectors prefer to begin with the plainest model they can find, making it completely their own. One of the most popular customizations, for example, is the addition of flames or other graphics in the paint along the sides and chrome accessories. However, you can also find some that already have such detailing.

When customizing pedal cars, first you'll need to decide on a paint color. If the car already has some paint, it will need to be removed. The car can then be painted, and flames, pinstriping, and two-tone paint added, just like if it were a real full-size car. Skilled artists can even create much more complex graphics on the side and front of the car. Some collectors even reshape the fenders or make other body modifications first. Once the exterior is painted, new accessories may be added, and interior will be re-upholstered, sometimes with real automobile upholstery.

Flames, chrome, and other details are also popular additions when restoring a vintage car. Restorations may be done to return the car to its authentic original state, or they may be done to improve its appearance with a unique idea in mind. The choices you'll make here are very similar to the choices for restoring full-size cars. You can follow the original design of the vintage car you have chosen for restoration, or come up with a plan all your own.

Many of the most well-known customizations have been done by names that are big in the hot rod world. Pedal cars offer a fun opportunity to use their skills in a new way. The ones most talked about within the collecting world are often those created to be sold for charity purposes. These may fetch thousands of dollars at auction, and the owner will have a one-of-a-kind, completely unique pedal car. Others are customized as projects created by a group of hot rod club members.

While you may assume that pedal cars are small and simple toys, too simple, in fact, for customizations to be very detailed, this is far from the case. You may be surprised with the wide variety of customized models existing within the collector world. Like real hot rods, there are hundreds of different directions you can go with customization. They are not just for kids, and there is a booming adult market for pedal cars, whether they are vintage or new.

By Alexus Devon

There is a lot of difference between a car and a good car. The difference has little things to do with the cost of the car. Leave alone the highly expensive cars like Lamborghini, Bugatti, Lexus, Roles Royce; all the other cars need to be maintained well to get the label of being good. Without proper maintenance, they will be simply cars, not a good car. And there is perhaps no better way to make a car good than to equip it with accessories!

Those who want their car to be merely the means of daily commuting may remain happy with a simple box on wheels. But those who have craving for comfort and a passion for fashion would certainly like to stylize their set of wheels. And it is car accessories that provide them with materials to adorn their car. For all kind of accessorizing, the automobile market has a gamut of options to offer.

When a car zings down the road, the parts of it that bears the maximum pressure are the wheels. The swift running of the wheels also makes a good view. So, it befits that you use the wheels that are highly reliable and extremely beautiful. In this regard, MOMO Corse car wheels can be given a try. They are made of aluminum and magnesium and lighter in weight. They are better heat conductor; hence they improve heat dissipation from brakes.

This quality of MOMO Corse car wheels helps them reduce the chances of brake failure. It is because of this wheels from this company is frequently used by racing car drivers all around the world. What more, they are unbeatable in their beauty! The scene of a car moving swiftly on the road with MOMO tires is really amazing! Along with wheels, there are so many other car accessories that can be used to beautify the interior as well as exterior a car.

By Susan Fielding

The use of car seat covers is one of the best ways to keep your vehicle's interior in good condition. Car seat covers are an excellent investment if you want to retain the value of your vehicle and keep it looking clean and tidy.

Car seat covers have many benefits and are practical as well as nice to look at. No more sticking or burning on your hot vinyl seats, or the fear of unsightly stains appearing on your upholstery. Besides protecting your car's seats from the sun and general wear and tear, you can wash them in the washing machine when they become dirty.

Car seat covers are available in a wide range of styles and fabrics, from warm and woolly to cool and comfy. Styles are available for bucket seats, as well as the back seat of your car or SUV. It is not difficult to find car seat covers which will suit all of your needs.

If you have kids who create a mess in your car, there are novelty car seat covers available in many colorful designs. For newborn babies, baby car seat covers are almost a necessity. Baby car seat covers are designed to fit over the original manufacturer's cover, providing even more support for your baby.

If you take your pet with you in your car, there are dog car seat covers which protect your car seats from dog-related problems. A shedding pet will change the appearance of your car seats forever, so using seat covers in this situation would be a must.

Car seat covers come in two main types: Universal, and Custom.

Universal car seat covers: These come in one standard size to fit most vehicle makes and models. The disadvantage of these is that they do not always provide a perfect fit.

Custom car seat covers: The great thing about custom car seat covers is that they are designed to fit every popular model of car, van or truck. These provide a much better fit, as they are designed specifically for that particular vehicle.

There are several materials used for car seat covers. These are poly cotton, and sheepskin.

Poly cotton is the most common fabric used for car seat covers. It is soft to the touch, and is also very durable.

Sheepskin car seat covers are also very common next to poly cotton. Sheepskin car seat covers are known to reduce stress, as they provide warmth and massage your back while you drive. They are also cool during hot weather. Sheepskin car seat covers can also be machine washed.

Car seat covers are an excellent way to protect your expensive car seats, or make old seats look like new. Having a set of unique car seat covers is a great way to add some personal touch to the interior of your vehicle, as well as a cost effective method to extend the life of your car's seats. Car seat covers are a great relief if you are worried about preserving the overall look of your vehicle.

By Vicki Churchill

Seat Covers

Thinking of upgrading the upholstery in your truck van or car? There are many reasons to do so. Having just purchased a new truck a great idea to protect the factory seats would be to buy a set of seat covers. Or alternatively if your truck has long since passed its sell by date why not give your old tatty interior a face lift and give your upholstery a new lease of life.

This reference guide will give you some good pointers as to which seat and dash covers are right for you.

Standard factory interiors are often dull and boring. Truck manufactures frequently use neutral styles and do not provide custom truck interiors as standard. Don't think for one minute that buying seat covers will ruin your vehicles appearance. To the contrary buying seat and dash covers can greatly enhance the style and offer original appeal.

There are many designer covers available with all types of colours and materials from denim and sheepskin to vinyl and leather. You can even have your own embroidered design or logo to promote your business.

Upgrading your interior should by done not only to turn your truck or van into a superior ride but also for shielding it from the elements.

For the out doors man, parent or pet owner you can buy waterproof covers to shield your seats from muddy boots, sticky fingers and sharp dog nails waiting to pierce your beautiful leather!

Now you have some idea what you may be looking for make sure you are aware of your trucks year, model and type of seat. There are many variations of seats: bucket, high back, fitted headrests, adjustable headrests, captain's chair, plain bench and so on. Therefore even if you know the year and model of your truck there still could be seat variations so be sure to check with the supplier before you buy.

Whatever custom truck interiors you are looking for there will be one that suits both you and your vehicle.

Dashboard Covers

One of the main enemies of a vehicles interior is the Sun. We have all entered a vehicle that has been parked in the midday sun and experienced that awful few seconds of Death Valley heat before the air con kicks in. Imagine how your upholstery is suffering in those conditions. It does not take long before your dashboard becomes cracked and off colour due to the Suns UV rays.

Therefore a dashboard cover is a worthwhile purchase if not only to protect it from the suns rays but it will also give your custom truck interiors a unique and stylish look.

One of the first things to make sure is the cover is the right one for your make and model and that its fit is neat and secure.

You will also need to select a hard-wearing cover. Popular covers are made of ABS plastic or velour. ABS plastic is very tough and durable but is flexible enough to expand and contract with the heat and cold. This of course minimises the possibility of splits and cracking. Another advantage of ABS is it can be painted to match the truck or vans interior with many paint manufacturers able to colour match perfectly.

When choosing a velour mat or cover you should make sure the openings are trimmed in matching binding. Good velour covers look perfectly at home in any custom truck interiors and are often cut with computer aided technology with stitched seams providing "hinges" that fit perfectly around the 3-dimensional contours of the dashboard.

Many velour covers are fixed simply with adhesive tape or velcro giving a no slip fit and over time the covers will naturally mould into the shape of your dash. ABS plastic can be secured with silicon.

Covers should be easy enough to install and maintain. They usually need very little care once fitted. Choosing the right dash and seat covers when designing your custom truck interiors should be fun and rewarding and give your vehicle a new lease of life.