Service Cars

Some car crashes cannot be avoided and serious injury or death can follow. Please read what Mercedes-Benz is doing to help prepare vehicle occupants moments before a crash occurs.

Volvo has long been attributed with being the number one automobile manufacturer when it comes to vehicular safety and rightly so. As an inventor of “crumple zones” and “safety cages” to protect passengers, Volvo set the tone for worldwide auto building for the next several generations. Indeed, the auto industry owes much to Volvo’s many safety contributions. Not to be lost in all of this is the work that Mercedes-Benz has been doing to improve passenger safety too. Taking the Volvo concept one step further, Mercedes now incorporates several technological advances with their vehicles in order to provide the safest riding experience available. Let’s take a look at Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE system and how it can protect you and your passengers.



I must admit that the first time I heard about Mercedes’ new safety system I had thought that it was something that was still years away from becoming available. How wrong I was! The PRE-SAFE system, as it is called, is a terrific way to enhance passenger safety and one that should be adopted by other automakers. Yes, I am sure that it isn’t a cheap system but as it is with so many technological advances the price is bound to drop and the system or something like it will become widely available across the board.

Introduced with select Mercedes models in 2003, the PRE-SAFE system automatically kicks in moments before a collision. All it takes is a panic stop or a skid and the system is set in motion; here is what occupants can expect moments before a crash occurs:

Snug in place. Passenger seat belts automatically tighten to prepare occupants for a crash.
Snug in place, part two. Along with the seat belts, air cushions on the sides of the seats inflate to keep people in position.

Seat movements. Headrests and seats automatically move to predetermined positions that provide optimum protection for occupants.

Close it up. Windows automatically shut to offer the best support for side-curtain air bags and cars equipped with a moon roof will find that it has closed up in the event of a rollover.
Since its introduction, PRE-SAFE has been expanded to additional Mercedes models and the original technology is constantly being tweaked and improved upon.

New technology being developed by Mercedes includes the development of a radar sensor to track vehicles running a red light and slamming into your car. Once this technology has been readied, it will take the PRE-SAFE system one step further and offer occupants one more way to avoid serious injury.

So, is Volvo behind in the development of crash preparation technology? Not a chance. Volvo released its Whiplash Protection Seating System in 2000 that prepares passengers for a rear hit by adjusting the seating position to minimize impact. In addition, the company is working on a radar system that can detect when a driver drifts out of his lane. This feature will also utilize an electronic eye to keep an eye on blind spots not seen through the side mirrors.

Ultimately, a defensive driver is the best driver, but there are times when situations are completely out of your control. Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE system is certain to be a big help and is likely to reduce serious injuries and even prevent some deaths. Technology at its best!

Step 1: Know the Market

Is your car going to be easy to sell? Is it a hot commodity? Or will you have to drop your price and search out additional avenues to sell it?

Here are a few general rules to answer these questions: Family sedans, while unexciting to many, are in constant demand by people needing basic, inexpensive transportation.
SUVs are very popular right now and often move quickly, even older models.



The sale of convertibles and sports cars is seasonal. Sunny weather brings out the buyers. Fall and winter months will be slow.

Trucks and vans, used for work, are steady sellers and command competitive prices. Dont underestimate their value.

Collector cars will take longer to sell and are often difficult to price. However, these cars can have unexpected value if you find the right buyer.

Your first step is to check on-line classified ads to see how much others are asking for your type of car. Edmunds.com Used Vehicle Locator and other Internet sites allow you to search with specific criteria. For example, select the year and trim level of your car and see how many similar cars are currently on the market. Take note of their condition, mileage, geographic location and selling price so you can list your car at a price that will sell it quickly.

Step 2: Price Your Car Competitively

Once you have surveyed the on-line classified ads, use Edmunds.com True Market Value (TMV®) pricing to determine the fair value of your car. Edmunds.com TMV prices are adjusted for mileage, color, region, options and condition. Once you have followed the prompts and gotten a specific price, you can also generate a "For Sale" sign. An Edmunds.com "For Sale" sign will give your price an air of authority.

There are always some exceptions to the rules of pricing, so you should follow your intuition. And be sure to leave a little wiggle room in your asking price. Ask for slightly more money than you are actually willing to accept. If you want to get $12,000 for the car, you should list the car at $12,500. That way, if you get $12,500 — great! But if you have to go lower, it wont be a terrible loss.

You may have noticed how creative used car dealers get in pricing cars. Their prices usually end in "995," as in $12,995. Are we not supposed to notice that the car basically costs $13,000? There is a lot of psychology in setting prices. A product that doesnt sell well at $20 might jump off the shelf at $19.95.

On the other hand, as a private party seller, you dont want to look like a car dealer. Therefore, you might want to take a simple approach and set your price at a round figure such as $12,750 or $12,500.

Step 3: Where to Advertise Your Car

Now that your car is looking great and running well, its time to advertise it for sale. Traditionally, people advertise in newspaper classified ads. These ads can be expensive, but they get results. On-line classified ads, such as the Edmunds.com Used Vehicle Locator, are becoming increasingly popular. On-line ads are particularly effective with hard-to-find or collector cars. In most cases, on-line classifieds reach a geographically wider area of buyers.
Here are the main markets for advertising used cars: On-line classified ads such as those on Edmunds.com

Daily newspaper classified ads

Weekly "shoppers" and giveaway newspapers

Bulletin boards at your office, a local supermarket or a college campus

Word of mouth — tell your friends and family you have a car for sale

Put a "For Sale" sign in the car window

Creativity is required when it comes to advertising. Think of unusual places to put ads (skywriting is probably too expensive), and you will get results.

One last word of advice about advertising: if you run an expensive classified ad, be sure you are available to take phone calls from possible buyers. Many people wont leave a message for a return call. So answer the phone — and be polite. Creating a good first impression is the first step to getting buyers to come and see the car in person.

Step 4 : Showing Your Car

Keep in mind that when you sell your car, people will also be evaluating you. They will be thinking something like, "Heres the person whos owned this car for the past few years. Do I trust him/her?" Make the buyers feel comfortable. They will probably be uneasy about making a big decision and spending money. Put them at ease and answer their questions openly.

Potential buyers will want to test-drive the car. If in doubt, check to make sure they have a driver license. Ride along with them so you can answer any questions about the cars history and performance. Also, they may not know the area, so you might have to guide them.

There are many unexpected bumps in the road that can arise while selling a used car. These will be handled easily if you are dealing with a reasonable person. So, as you are contacted by prospective buyers, use your intuition to evaluate them. If they seem difficult, pushy or even shady, wait for another buyer. With the right person, selling a used car should be simple.

Some sellers feel uncomfortable about having buyers come to their house to see the car. However, you can generally screen buyers on the phone. If they sound suspicious, dont do business with them. If you dont want people knowing where you live, arrange to show the car at a park or shopping center near your home. However, keep in mind that people will eventually see your address when you sign the title over to them.

Some buyers will want to take the car to a mechanic to have it inspected. If you have an inspection report from your mechanic, this might put their doubts to rest. However, if they still want to take the car to their mechanic, this is a reasonable request. By now, you should have a feeling for the persons trustworthiness. If you feel uncomfortable or have reason to think they will steal the car, decline the offer or go along with them.

Be ready for trick questions such as, "So, whats really wrong with the car?" If you get this, refer them to the mechanics report or invite them to look over the car more carefully.

Step 5: Finalize the Sale

Rules governing the sale of motor vehicles vary somewhat from state to state. Make sure you check with the department of motor vehicles (DMV) in your state, and keep in mind that much of the information is now available on DMV Web sites.

When selling your car, its important to limit your liability. If someone drives away in the car you just sold, and they get into an accident, can you be held responsible? There are two ways to deal with this concern.

Once you have the money from the sale (its customary to request either cash or a cashiers check), record the odometer reading and sign the cars title over to the buyer. In some states, the license plates go along with the car. A new title will be issued and mailed to the new owner. Additionally, in most states, a release of liability form can be downloaded from the DMV web site. Fill this out, along with the cars mileage, and mail it in as soon as the car is sold. This establishes the time at which the car left your possession.

But what if you still owe money on the car, and the bank is holding the title? One way to deal with this is to conclude the sale at the bank where the title is held. Call ahead and have the title ready. Then, once money has changed hands and the bank has been paid the balance of the loan, sign the title over to the buyer.

In some cases, however, an out-of-state bank might hold the title. In this instance, it is recommended that you go with the buyer to the DMV and get a temporary operating permit based on a bill of sale. Then, after you pay off the balance of the loan with the proceeds from the car sale, have the title mailed to the new owner. Sign it over to the new owner and the transaction is complete.

Finally, remember to contact your insurance agent to cancel your policy on the vehicle you have sold (or transfer the coverage to your new car).

Before your car drives away for the final time, take a last look through the glove compartment, the trunk and under the seats. You might find some long forgotten treasures you misplaced years ago.

Step 6: After the Sale

In most states, the condition of a used car for sale is considered "as is" and no warranty is provided or implied. Therefore, if the car breaks down after you have sold it, you are under no obligation to refund the buyers money or pay to have it repaired. If you have sold a car to someone who took it for inspection at a garage and the mechanic found nothing wrong with it, you have done all you can to protect yourself and the buyer.

The best way to feel peace of mind after selling your used car is to make sure you did everything correctly. This means being open about the condition of the car before the sale and timely and complete in transferring DMV paperwork after the sale.

When done correctly, selling a used car can be a win-win situation. You have turned your used car into cash and provided reliable transportation for the next owner. Focus on the benefits to both parties and you are likely to have a smooth and profitable experience.
source :edmunds.com

"The more often you clean your car, the easier it is and the less time it takes," Mike Pennington, director of training for Meguiars—a leading producer of car care products—told MSN Autos in an interview.

For most drivers who live in areas where winter hits particularly hard, getting safely through snow, sleet and rain takes higher priority than having a sparkling vehicle. But as warm summer weather rolls around, its a good time to catch up on vehicle maintenance and wash away the grime.

"If I can pinpoint one step that gives the greatest benefit over an automobiles entire life, its keeping your cars surfaces—the glass, trim, paint and wheels—clean," said Richard Griot of car care and tool supplier Griots Garage.



Even if youve neglected this advice for many months, its not too late to change your ways! Of course, the quickest and easiest way to a sparkling clean car inside and out is to take it to a detail shop for a professional job. But at $75 to $300 a visit, theres plenty of incentive to learn what you can do on your own to optimize your cars appearance.

Start Out Right

Youll need a steady supply of water, a soft and dirt-free cloth (or a wash mitt, terry towel or soft-bristle brush) and—last but not least—youll need a proper car wash soap.
Dont make the mistake of using dishwashing soap or a household cleaner on your car—they contain harsh detergents that can strip wax and damage paint.

As Craig Burnett, chemist for Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, put it, "Car wash products are designed to remove automotive dirt from cars, not grime from clothes or grease from dishes. Dont confuse your kitchen with your garage."

Luckily, car wash products are carried by a range of retail outlets, from auto parts shops to hardware stores and Web sites. Even some grocery stores carry a limited stock.

And, before you start, if you suspect that you may have unique paint or other accessories that may require special attention, check your vehicles owners manual for any manufacturer recommendations.

Its All About Contaminants

The main objective of good car washing is the removal of all dirt and contaminants.
"You should wash your car a minimum of once a week, due to the fact that your car is constantly bombarded with contaminants such as tree sap mist and bird droppings," Pennington told MSN Autos. "If the contaminants are not removed quickly they can bond to the paint and even etch the paint."

If at all possible, park your vehicle in a shaded location before getting started. Washing your car in the sun can cause some surfaces to dry faster than you may want them to, leaving residue and unwanted streaks.

Car care professionals recommend washing the vehicle beginning with the top and working to the bottom, one section at a time, although some enthusiasts are adamant that beginning with the lower sections is a better method.

"Washing your vehicle from the top down reduces the chance of scratching the finish" advises Mark Greene, executive vice president of Griots Garage. "By washing from the top down, and frequently rinsing your wash mitt, sponge or brush, you greatly reduce the possibility of contaminants becoming embedded in your cleaning tools and creating scratches and swirl marks."

"The bottom of the car, particularly behind the wheelwells traditionally has heavier accumulations of dirt particles," explained Pennington. "Washing from the top down minimizes the risk of contaminants in the water and on the wash mitt or brush, thus minimizing the chances of creating scratches or swirls in the paint."

Basic guidelines to bear in mind:

First rinse the entire car with water to remove loose dirt.

Wash and rinse one section at a time—working from top to bottom—to prevent a section from drying too quickly and leaving deposits or residue.

Rub the car surface gently to loosen dirt.

Aggressive rubbing can grind dirt right into the finish, leaving scratches and swirls.

Be sure to rinse the wash mitt or sponge often to prevent accumulated dirt from scratching the paint.

Use plenty of rinse water to carry away the dirt.

After the final rinse, wipe the excess water from the vehicle surface to prevent water spotting. A soft terry cloth towel or a high-quality chamois are recommended. Keep the towel or chamois clean to help prevent scratching, and wipe the vehicle lightly to soak up water without abrading the surface.

If you live in a climate where sand or salt is used on the road surface, be sure to rinse inside the wheel wells, paying special attention to the lower part of the fender where salt and sand may have accumulated. You might want to take a trip to a self-service car wash and use the high-pressure hose for this extra step.

Environmental Considerations

Its important to consider where all the contaminants that you wash off your car—oil, grease and gasoline, as well as the car wash soap and other cleaners—actually end up.

Be aware that any rinse water and contaminants that run into a storm drain system end up in rivers and other open water, without any treatment.

The best location to wash your own car is at a self-serve car wash, so the water will be recycled or sent to the sewage treatment plant before going into the environment.

And if you do plan to wash your vehicle at home, position it on grass or gravel where the water will be absorbed and there will be some filtering effect. You can still have a clean car, but also help to keep the environment clean in the process.

Wheels and Wheel Covers

Have you ever noticed that the front wheels—not the tires, but the wheels—of many cars on the road appear dirtier than the back wheels of the very same cars? This is caused by the accumulation of brake dust shed by disc brakes, which are on the front wheels of virtually all cars these days.

Luckily, there are a number of car care products on the market that do a good job of removing brake dust. Choose wisely and be sure to read the directions carefully.

A spray-on cleaner designed for premium alloy wheels, for instance, will begin to strip a wheels protective varnish if not rinsed off in the prescribed time frame. And the same spray applied to wheels with plastic wheel covers could have serious corrosive effects.

If youre not sure what kind of wheels or wheel covers you have, refer to your owners manual for instructions. But once youve identified the right product for your wheels, youll find it very quick and easy to keep the wheels looking bright and new. With a typical wheel cleaner, you simply spray it on and rinse after 30 to 60 seconds.

Making Your Tires Look Like New

After washing the car and the wheels, youll want to add a little attention to detail.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve the appearance of your vehicle is to apply a protectant to the tires. Many tire dressings simply spray on and require no wiping—giving the tires a clean, slightly glossy look that highlights your clean wheels.

Similar protectants are available for black rubber or vinyl trim pieces on the outside of the vehicle. For the final touch, polish any chrome trim with a product specifically for chrome. Chrome polish is designed to help remove any oxidation that has developed, restoring the chromes sparkle.

When Should I Wax My Car?

At least 97 percent of todays vehicles come from the factory with clearcoat finishes. Clearcoats contain stabilizers, ultraviolet light blockers and UV light absorbers that help keep vehicle paints looking new longer by preventing oxidation—the chemical breakdown of the upper layer of paint film caused by sunlight, moisture and contaminants in the air.

But clearcoats themselves need attention, too.

"Clearcoats can give drivers a false sense of security by appearing to protect the underlying base coat," Matthew Broderick, group vice president of marketing at Turtle Wax Inc, told MSN Autos.

"Clearcoats are fragile and susceptible to scratches, abrasions and swirls. When a clearcoat surface is scratched and pitted as a result of not waxing, the light cant reflect evenly off the surface, which makes the paint look dull."

Most manufacturers recommend that you wax your vehicle twice a year to protect it from damage and maintain the color and shine. Some auto-care suppliers recommend monthly waxing.

"Ideally, a vehicle should be waxed three to four times per year," according to Pennington, to maximize the protection provided by the wax. "A good strategy is to start right before the winter and get on to a three-month cycle."

Waxing your vehicle will help remove paint oxidation and surface dirt, while adding a protective coating. Wax will improve or remove minor damage such as surface scratches or light contaminants and provide a high-luster finish. Again, consult your vehicles manual for specific recommendations.

The Waxing ProcessBasic guidelines to bear in mind:

The paint surface should be cool and not in direct sunlight.

Always wash the vehicle immediately before waxing.

The temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity should be low.

Apply the wax to a small section at a time using either a foam pad or small terry cloth towel.

Apply the wax in overlapping strokes or circular motions.

Wait for a section to dry to a haze before wiping the wax off with soft, terry cloth towels or cloth diapers. Wipe in both directions, turning the towels often.

Shake the towels to remove accumulated wax.

When finished, wipe the entire vehicle again, paying particular attention to the edges of trim pieces, door jambs and moldings where excess wax may have accumulated.

For additional shine between wax jobs, several manufacturers offer spray-and-wipe products to quickly enhance the vehicles shine, such as Turtle Wax Emerald Series Premium Detailer and Meguiars Quik Detailer.

If your vehicles paint has been damaged, the paint may need additional work requiring the use of other types of products. You should consult a professional detail shop, auto paint repair shop, or car care product manufacturer for advice before using any products that contain abrasives.

Sprucing Up the Interior

Now that you have finished the part of your vehicle that you show off to everyone as you drive by, how about sprucing up the part of the car you look at from the drivers seat?

First, thoroughly vacuum the cars interior to remove all loose, dry dirt. And be very careful when you reach under the seat—you may have forgotten what you placed under there.
Lint-free towels and clean water will be the main tools for the dash area and seats. Cotton swabs are helpful for getting dust out of tight spots. For the carpet, a clean, stiff-bristled brush is indispensable.

Pennington suggests you always use a product that is designed for the surface you want to clean, whether it is leather, vinyl, plastic, wood, simulated wood or upholstery. Each product is specifically formulated for a particular surface and will not work effectively on other surfaces, and may even damage them.

For carpet areas, use a small amount of a carpet cleaning product and a small amount of water with a stiff-bristle brush. "The biggest problem with interior cleaning is that many people oversaturate the carpet when they shampoo," explained Pennington. "A wet-dry shop vacuum is useful for removing excess water. It is very important to let the carpet dry thoroughly before closing the vehicle up tight.

For cleaning windows, avoid products that contain ammonia, because ammonia can damage window tint film on the inside of the windows. Although the tint may have already been in place when you purchased the vehicle, you may not realize that it is a film that needs to be protected. Clean water and lint-free towels are effective for quick window touch-up.

Dont use ammonia or any similar harsh chemical to clean seatbelts, either. They could weaken the webbing, affecting the belts ability to protect you during a crash.

If you use a protectant or dressing on the dash pad, be sure that it does not leave the surface shiny. A shiny dash can reflect light and be a safety hazard while driving.

Armor All Products Corp., a leading supplier in the auto protectant category, also advises that for safetys sake keep important parts of your car clean and dry—but not slippery. For example, dont put protectant on the steering wheel or the pedals.

If you carry out all of the procedures outlined above, the hours you invest will result in a vehicle that will be considerably easier to keep clean in the future with a routine of weekly or biweekly washing. Combine your washing regimen with a good waxing and interior detailing every three months and the whole process will become quicker and easier each time you do it.
resource : autos.msn.com