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Tag: Car

How to make a car donation

How to make a car donation

Automobiles
Interested in donating a car to a non-profit organization and receiving a tax deduction? Here are some important things to know. In 2005, the IRS changed the rules on charity car donation. Currently, in most cases, a person may only claim the donated car’s actual selling price as a deduction. How to Donate an Automobile: Choosing a Charity The IRS urges people interested in charity car donations to make sure the chosen organization is legitimate. “Otherwise, your deduction will not be tax-deductible,” they warn in A Donor's Guide to Vehicle Donations. A list of qualified organizations is available on the IRS website. Know that many religious organizations, such as churches, synagogues, mosques and temples are not listed but are still considered qualified organizations by the IRS. ...
Tips to protect classic cars against theft

Tips to protect classic cars against theft

Technology
When classic cars were newly built car crime was less prevalent so they do not have the security of modern vehicles. This is a challenge for the classic car owner especially if they use their car every day or for touring. Locks and Keys Even when new, locks on cars before the 1980s were easily bypassed and became easier when they were worn. Often all it needs is a key from a similar car. As the locks were not shielded it is also easy to drive a screwdriver through the door skin to release the lock. At best, then, old locks will only deter the casual criminal. Others will be able to get into the car where they may not even face a steering lock. Anti-Theft Alarms and Immobilizers Most classic cars, especially those before the 1980s do not have any form of alarm of immobili...
How to remove a car remote battery

How to remove a car remote battery

Automobiles
Keyless remotes, automatic starters and car alarms are accessories that have become nearly standard on different types of vehicles all around the world. All of these wireless technologies are controlled by handheld remotes that can be easily added to a keychain or held in a pocket. Often held with car keys, the wireless remotes could control the automotive features from as far away as a couple of hundred feet. Whether it is the alarm, starter or keyless system, the remotes feature simple batteries that allow them to work. Keyless Entry Battery The batteries for these remotes are what allow them to work with the transmitters installed in your car. These automatic starter batteries, however, can stop working for a variety of reasons. They can run out of power simply due to overuse,...
Finding a reputable automotive maintenance shop

Finding a reputable automotive maintenance shop

Automobiles
Auto maintenance shop - Since most people are keeping their cars and trucks longer, the need for qualified automotive repair services to fix these vehicles has increased. But what is the best way to find a reliable automotive maintenance shop that doesn’t overcharge? Here are some tips to help pick an automotive maintenance shop that can get the job done right. Choose Businesses that Offer Specific Automotive Repair Services According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), vehicle owners should go to an automotive maintenance shop that specializes in the car's specific problem. For example, if the car is having transmission problems take it to a transmission specialist. Most dealers and general repair facilities don't employ a transmission specialist. Instead, they send th...
Complete car care – Routine vehicle transmission inspection and car checklist

Complete car care – Routine vehicle transmission inspection and car checklist

General
Complete car care - Performing routine transmission inspection is important to keep a vehicle in top running condition. Operating a vehicle with low fluid levels can cause serious damage to vehicle components. Driving a car will low tire pressure or damaged tires can cause an unsafe driving condition with an increased chance of a blowout. To help prevent costly repairs as well as unsafe driving conditions, routine comprehensive vehicle inspection or complete car care should be performed. Under the Hood Vehicle Checks The majority of complete car care is performed under the hood. Checking fluid levels and visual checks of engine components are all done under the hood of the vehicle. One of the best methods of complete car care checks is when the car is filled with fuel. The following ...
How to diagnose a car no start

How to diagnose a car no start

Technology
An attempt is made to turn the car on but either nothing is happening, a clicking sound is heard, or the starter is turning the motor but the engine won't start. The problem could be as simple as a dead battery or as complex as a bad fuel pump or neutral safety switch. One tool that is absolutely essential to diagnose the issue is a multimeter. An inexpensive multimeter can be purchased at Radioshack for under $20. No Crank, No Start In this scenario, either the starter is clicking or nothing is happening. Try turning the lights on. If they are dim, then this is an indicator that the battery is dead and needs a jump or recharge. If the lights aren't dim, then there is another issue. Use a multimeter to check the voltage on the battery. To do this set the multimeter on the Volts setti...