Saturday, March 30, 2013

Ford faces class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles without brake override systems

Ford faces class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles without brake override systems



A total of 20 Ford customers are suing the automaker in a class-action lawsuit for selling vehicles "vulnerable to unintended acceleration." According to Reuters, the suit names 30 models built between 2002 and 2010 with electronic throttle control systems but without a brake override system. Those include the 2004-2012 F-Series pickups and the 2005-2009 Lincoln Town Car. Adam Levitt, a partner with the law firm of Grant & Eisenhofer says the plaintiffs in the case want "to be compensated for their economic losses by having overpaid for cars that contained defects." Levitt contends that the plaintiffs would not have bought their vehicles or paid less for them had they known there was no brake override system in place.

Ford began installing brake override systems in its vehicles beginning in 2010. In response to the lawsuit, Ford has pointed to research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that indicated that unintended acceleration is mostly caused by driver error, saying in a statement that, "NHTSA's work is far more scientific and trustworthy than work done by personal injury lawyers and their paid experts."

Belville et al v. Ford Motor Co. will be heard in US District Court in the Southern District of West Virginia.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Don't forget about the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS



Yes, everyone's eyes are on the ludicrously excellent 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 at the 2013 New York Auto Show, but Chevy also unveiled the quietly updated 2014 Camaro SS as well. The coupe wears all of the styling tweaks we saw earlier in the week, including a functional hood vent to help reduce engine bay temperatures and aerodynamic lift. The new front fascia now wears a larger lower grille to improve engine cooling as well. Indoors, buyers can opt up to a new set of Recaro sports seats.

Chevrolet graced the 2014 Camaro SS with a 426-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine, and coupe buyers will be able to opt up to a the 1LE handling package for better on track performance. If all this sounds unimpressive, remember that the engineers at Chevy were busy working on the the Boss 302-killing Z/28.













Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Haus Review !! Best Car Auto Group By rolicia sanders aka roro and ilicia sanders from youngstown ohio | March 25, 2013

Best Car Auto Group
By rolicia sanders aka roro and ilicia sanders from youngstown ohio | March 25, 2013

This is the BEST.. I mean the BEST car place of all Time! The WORKERS our hand on and care about what YOU are interested in.. They are very nice and have a VERY VERY VERY GOOD ATTITUDE! ALL the workers are very SWEET AND KIND.. but the 1 WORKER OF ALL TIME IN The building would have to be..FRANK CRONE..HE IS BY FAR THE BEST MAN HE HELPED ME GET MY NEW CAR PONTIAC G6! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE LOVE LOVE my car it is BY FAR THE BEST ALL THANKS TO FRANK CRONE. . i RECOMMENDED MY FAMILY TO COME TO THE HAUS AUTO SALES AND THEY DID I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THANK YOU SO MUCH TO FRANK CRONE AND THE REST OF THE HAUS FACILITY;)


Sunday, March 24, 2013

Jeep Cherokee faces on-sale delay






A report in The Wall Street Journal looks at some of the obstacles to the 2014 Jeep Cherokee that go beyond its mootable yet "very contemporary" looks, almost all of them based on Fiat's financial position. Starting with that sheetmetal, in defense of it SRT president Ralph Gilles and Jeep design head Mark Allen said they wanted to "make sure the design still looks modern five years from now."

The WSJ piece doesn't cite longevity as a factor, instead saying that its features originated in a design for an Alfa Romeo, the transformation into a Jeep design meant allowing Chrysler get it to market more quickly and save "hundreds of millions of dollars" in engineering.

The need for Fiat to save money while it weathers the European situation has cut budgets for development, engineering and the pace of retooling the Toledo, Ohio plant to build the Cherokee. In a familiar case of snowballing at work, among the effects will be pushing back the Cherokee's volume sales date and delaying updates to some of Chrysler's other products.

Things will get better when Chrysler can work through its program and get the Cherokee to dealers in bulk – especially if it finds it really can sell 250,000 per year – but the hurdles won't help the financials in the short term.



MUST READ !! Acura recalling 76,000 TSX sedans in certain cold-weather states

Acura recalling 76,000 TSX sedans in certain cold-weather states

Parent company Honda is issuing a recall for Acura TSX vehicles from model years 2004 to 2008, for a rather interesting fault with the electrical systems (well, kind of). It seems that TSX made between during that range have carpeting that degrades when it becomes saturated with "corrosive materials for deicing." The carpeting is in contact with each Acura's electronic control unit, which may in turn rust or become corroded as a result. All of that business could cause the engine to stall.

Acura is singling out cars registered in states that use these corrosive deicing materials (presumably road salt): Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia.

Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by Honda and instructed to bring their cars into the nearest Acura dealership. Dealers will inspect the ECU for damage, replace if needed, and cover with a waterproof piece; all free of charge. Check out the official recall notice below.
Show full PR text
Report Receipt Date: MAR 15, 2013

NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V093000

Component(s): ELECTRICAL SYSTEM , ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 76,253
Manufacturer: Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

SUMMARY:

Honda is recalling certain model year 2004-2008 Acura TSX vehicles originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. In states that use corrosive materials for deicing, driver's footwear may bring in materials that saturate the vehicle's carpeting, which is in contact with the vehicle's engine Electronic Control Unit (ECU). As a result, the ECU case may experience rust or corrosion. This damage may potentially cause the engine to stall.

CONSEQUENCE:

A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.

REMEDY:

Honda will notify owners and Acura dealers will inspect the vehicle and replace any damaged ECU, free of charge. All vehicles will have a waterproof cover installed onto the ECU, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on April 11, 2013. Owners may contact Honda at 1-800-999-1009.

NOTES:

Honda's recall campaign numbers are S86. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

2014 Cadillac CTS images leak from somewhere



The redesigned 2014 Cadillac CTS will be unveiled this Tuesday on the eve of the New York Auto Show, but as often happens, some images of the car have leaked onto the web a few days early. Previously, the only information we had on the 2014 CTS concerned the all-new twin-turbo V6 engine that will be found underhood, rated at 420 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque.

While none show the new car in its entirety, the images do show much of the front end, particularly the headlights that feature vertical bars of LEDs that start down low as foglights and continue up to the top of the front fenders. They're similar to the lighting design first shown on the XTS and ATS, except the lower portions are much taller.

There are also views of the rear end and one of the taillights, as well as an interior shot of the front passenger door. The latter image has us most intrigued, as it shows some very high end materials being used in the new CTS interior. The low-gloss wood trim, in particular, looks very premium.













((((((( The Haus Auto Group in Canfield, Ohio is looking for CUSTOMER SERVICE ORIENTED, MOTIVATED AND ENERGETIC people for an AUTOMOTIVE SALES position )))))))



The Haus Auto Group in Canfield, Ohio is looking for CUSTOMER SERVICE ORIENTED, MOTIVATED AND ENERGETIC people for an AUTOMOTIVE SALES position. Our dealership sells high quality automobiles; we have high ethical standards and have a great clientele. Our customer reviews are exceptional!

REQUIREMENTS:
Great personality
2-5 years of experience in a customer service or sales role (restaurant, retail, call center etc.); previous automotive sales experience is not necessary.
Excellent communication and customer service skills.
A basic understanding of sales techniques (including direct sales, cross-selling and overcoming objections).
Proven job stability including 1 year with past employer.
No criminal background.

WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER:
Draw-based pay with commission compensation. Monthly bonuses and aggressive pay plans. Our successful sales people earn between $40,000.00 and $100,000.00 annually.
Ongoing training and career advancement
Paid vacation
Flexibility and a great company culture
Health and Life Insurance Benefits

Reply to this ad with your resume and start a rewarding career TODAY!

Email Resume to
job@hausautogroup.com

Please do not apply in person. Please submit your resume; qualified applicants will be contacted by phone or email.
Location: Canfield, Ohio
Compensation: Our successful sales associates earn between $40,000.00 and $100,000.00 annually
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.

Saturday, March 23, 2013

Obama’s Limo Breaks Down In Israel After Being Filled With Wrong Fuel


President Barack Obama is in Israel today, but he's not going anywhere. The presidential limo, which was brought from Washington, D.C., for the visit, was disabled because it was accidentally filled with the wrong type of fuel. Multiple sources have reported conflicting information — either the diesel-powered Cadillac was erroneously filled with gasoline or the gas-powered car got a diesel top-off. General Motors spokesman David Caldwell couldn't clarify matters, saying only that GM is not permitted to disclose the limo's engine specs.
Regardless, according to our friends at Car Talk, this could be a costly mistake — if accidentally filled with diesel, the tank would need to be emptied, and depending on how much made its way through the fuel lines, the fuel lines and possibly the oxygen sensors need to be replaced.
Cars.com Executive Editor and resident gearhead Joe Wiesenfelder agrees. "It depends on how far the fuel got. If they noticed the error before starting the engine, it's as 'simple' as draining the fuel tank. The most conservative approach would be to remove the tank and ensure that it's completely clean. Diesel fuel is an oil that doesn't evaporate as gasoline does, so whatever's in there has to be cleaned out or burned off," he said.
We hope the president knows a good mechanic, but according to Wiesenfelder it might not be that simple. "This is no normal car. It says Cadillac on it, and even looks like one, but it was custom built, and reparability was probably deemed far less important than protection. Who knows if they could even remove the fuel tank? It depends on how the tank was designed and how the car is armored. The car could be a write-off for all we know," he said.





Friday, March 22, 2013

Haus Auto Review !! Good Experience By Paula Z from East Liverpool | March 22, 2013

good experience
By Paula Z from East Liverpool | March 22, 2013

Good experience at haus - Mike Santangelo was a great salesman - I like the laid back atmosphere and no one stalking you to try to get the sale. i purchased a torrent and so far I feel i got a good deal. Thanks Mike :)

Thursday, March 21, 2013

MUST READ !! GM recalling 2013 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX over transmission software



The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued recalls for the 2013 Buick LaCrosse and 2013 Cadillac SRX due to a problem with the software for the transmission controller. On about 27,000 SRX and LaCrosse models, the transmission could accidentally be shifted to Sport mode, which would reduce the amount of engine braking drivers experience.

NHTSA says this could increase the risk of a crash, but, fortunately, the required fix is simply an update to the software.

While we're on the subject of General Motors vehicle recalls, a small number (48) of compressed natural gas versions of the 2011 Chevrolet Express are also being recalled for a potential risk of fire or explosion. Yikes. Both official recall notices are posted below.
Show full PR text
RECALL Subject : Loss of Engine Braking/FMVSS 102

Report Receipt Date: MAR 15, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V097000
Component(s): ELECTRICAL SYSTEM , POWER TRAIN
Potential Number of Units Affected: 26,582
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

SUMMARY:
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Buick LaCrosse vehicles, manufactured between April 25, 2012, through March 6, 2013, and model year 2013 Cadillac SRX vehicles, manufactured between May 29, 2012, through February 18, 2013 for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect." A software problem may cause the transmission to inadvertently shift to Sport mode removing any transmission-related engine braking effect.

CONSEQUENCE:
If engine braking is unexpectedly removed, it may increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

REMEDY:
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the transmission control module free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on March 28, 2013. Cadillac owners may call 1-866-982-2339. Buick owners may call 1-866-694-6546.

NOTES:
General Motors' number for this recall is 13053. Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to www.safercar.gov.

===============
RECALL Subject : CNG Pressure Relief Vent Pipe

Report Receipt Date: MAR 08, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V080000
Component(s): FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Potential Number of Units Affected: 48
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

SUMMARY:
General Motors is recalling certain model year 2011 Chevrolet Express vehicles converted by Impco Automotive to run compressed natural gas (CNG), manufactured between November 23, 2010 and December 23, 2010 and equipped with a four tank configuration using a pressure relief device (PRD) and pressure relief vent pipe assembly . In the affected vehicles, the pressure relief vent pipe assembly may have been built incorrectly.

CONSEQUENCE:
If a pressure relief device activates with an improperly assembled vent pipe, compressed natural gas may be vented into the passenger compartment. If an ignition source is present, an explosion or fire may result.

REMEDY:
Impco Automotive, in cooperation with General Motors will inspect and make any necessary repairs on the pressure relief device and vent pipe assembly. The safety recall is expexted to begin by the end of March 2013. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-521-7300.

NOTES:
This is General Motors campaign number 13065. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

CHECK THIS OUT !! Discolor Tyre Uses Bright Color To Indicate Tire Wear

Change your oil every 3,000 miles and your tires every...well, that depends. The uncertainty surrounding tire wear and tear, however, could all change with this nifty concept.Inventors Gao Fenglin and Zhau Buyi have come up with the Discolor Tyre, a Red Dot award-winnng design. Here's how it works:



Under the normal black rubber of a tire's tread pattern, is a bright orange colored rubber. By the time the tread wears through to the color, it's time to change your tires. In addition to showing general wear, the orange rubber can also indicate small tears or leaks.

Pretty neat stuff for those who aren't into measuring their tread wear. This concept would certainly make our cars safer, but would you want to drive around on hot-orange tires until you could swap them out with a fresh set? Let us know in the comments.



Monday, March 18, 2013

Chrysler 200 replacement coming in January



Autoweek reports the next Chrysler 200 will bow early next year. CEO Sergio Marchionne has said the 2015 model will debut next January, and Chrysler plans to cut the 2014 200 model year short to make way for the model's successor. According to AW, internal documents reveal 2014 model production will start this July and run through early January, 2014. The memos don't specify whether its Dodge Avenger twin will also see a shortened model year (the latter was originally rumored for discontinuation, but a successor is apparently back on the table). Chrysler is investing some $1 billion to construct paint and body facilities at its Sterling Heights, Michigan plant for the next-generation 200.

From what we've heard so far, we can expect the 2015 200 to bring a new design language to the Chrysler brand that will eventually bleed into the automaker's other products. Early reports have also suggested the four door will boast a nine-speed automatic transmission and return up to 38 miles per gallon.

Chrysler executed a very successful facelift in 2011, turning the flailing Sebring into the newly minted 200. Buyers responded enthusiastically, with sales jumping 44 percent in 2012. That step up was enough to make the 200 the brand's best-selling car. The momentum hasn't slackened, either, with sales up 21 percent during the first two months of this year.



Corvette driver escapes decapitation in crash by ducking



You wouldn't believe it by looking at the Corvette in these pictures, but the driver of the Chevrolet that slammed into the back of this moving truck survived with only non-life threatening injuries. The crash occurred near Los Angeles on the southbound 405 Freeway on Monday, March 4. Fire crews reportedly had to raise the moving truck in order to extricate the driver, who escaped perhaps the worst possible death imaginable – decapitation – by simply ducking prior to impact.

What's supposed to prevent a crash like this from becoming lethal is a Mansfield Bar, so named because the low-hanging bar affixed to the rear of semi truck trailers became mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after the death of popular movie actress Jayne Mansfield in 1967 from a rear-end collision with a tractor trailer.

The Mansfield Bar is designed to prevent under-riding, and in 1998, the rules governing them were revised to lower the bar to 22 inches off the ground. Even at the height, some vehicles, including sports cars like the Corvette, have leading edges that are low enough to clear them. That's particularly true when the car in question is braking hard and its weight is pitched forward, lowering the nose even more).

As we reported earlier today, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has conducted tests on currently sold tractor trailors and found that while all of the examples tested prevented under-riding during a full-width crash, their effectiveness fell sharply when the overlap of vehicle and bar was reduced to 50 percent and 30 percent. In the latter case, only one trailer managed to prevent under-riding, despite all of the trailers passing current US and Canadian crash standards.

Fortunately for this man, the combination of the crash-worthiness of the Corvette, the Mansfield Bar on the truck – and the fact that he had enough wits about him to duck at the last minute – all combined to save his life.





Sunday, March 17, 2013

WARNING !!! 2013 Dodge Challenger V6 recalled for fire risk, owners asked not to drive !!!!!!

2013 Dodge Challenger V6 recalled for fire risk, owners asked not to drive

Chrysler has issued a recall for the V6 version of the 2013 Dodge Challenger (as pictured below ) over the possibility of a wiring harness that could short circuit and lead to a fire. Owners of these V6 Challengers built from November 2012 through January 2013 are being urged to contact dealers immediately and, in the meantime, not to drive their cars or park in or near any buildings.

Chrysler estimates around 2,500 potentially affected Challengers are in owners' hands, while another 1,900 are still sitting on dealer lots. The total number of recalled vehicles is 4,459.

So far, Chrysler says that seven fires have been reported – none resulting in injuries. The company is instructing vehicle owners to contact their dealer to find out if their vehicle is included in the recall, but owners can also find the build date information of their vehicle by checking the label in the driver's door jamb.
Show full PR text
Statement: Wiring Issue

March 17, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling approximately 2,500 model-year 2013 Dodge Challengers now in customer hands to address a potential short-circuit.

This condition could cause a wire harness to overheat and possibly lead to fire. Chrysler Group is aware of seven such incidents. None caused injury.

Affected owners are being contacted directly – by telephone and by mail. They are being advised to immediately refrain from driving their vehicles and to contact their dealers. Loaner vehicles will be provided, free of charge, until repairs are complete. Chrysler Group further advises affected owners not to park their vehicles in or near any structures.

Customers who are uncertain if they are affected should take the above precautions and inquire with their dealers.

This action affects only 2013 Dodge Challengers assembled with V-6 engines during an eight-week period ending Jan. 24, 2013.

The total recall population is 4,459 vehicles, of which approximately 1,900 are in dealer hands.




GREAT LONG DISTANCE PURCHASE!!!! Haus Auto Group Review

GREAT LONG DISTANCE PURCHASE
By Hoosier from Fort Wayne, Indiana | March 16, 2013

I traveled more than 300 miles to make this purchase. The online and email communication was outstanding with over a hundred photo's of the vehicle I was interested in. The trade and business was upfront and I was very pleased with transaction. I purchased a 2012 Chrysler 300S that is a fabulous car and was well worth the trip. I would highly recommend this dealership to anyone near or far for there great customer service.


Chrysler adding 200 jobs at Ohio Jeep Wrangler plant


Chrysler is betting that the Jeep Wrangler will continue its strong sales surge as it continues to push the legendary brand out across the globe. The Auburn Hills automaker is reportedly adding 200 workers at the Toledo, Ohio plant that builds the Wrangler. What's more, those new hires will be at their posts quickly – they'll be on the job by April 1. Of those 200 workers, 130 employees will be there to relieve those who need breaks.

Why do they need so many relief workers? The Toledo Jeep Complex is currently working at a torrid pace with two ten-hour shifts. A third shift has been ruled out for the moment because of a production botttleneck – the plant's paint shop is already maxed out. According to Reuters, Wrangler production in 2012 cleared 200,000 units, and US sales were up by 16 percent.

Another part of the Toledo plant is presently down as Chrysler retools the line to build Jeep's divisively styled Liberty replacement, the Cherokee (seen in our gallery below). Production for the new model is scheduled to begin toward the end of May.

Friday, March 15, 2013

CHECK THIS OUT!!! Snow sculpture car gets parking ticket.





Traffic wardens slipped up in Germany when they left a parking ticket - on a full-sized snow sculpture of a Volkswagen Beetle.

Pranksters had built the car overnight in a no-parking zone in Aachen, complete with outlines for its headlights, windscreens and even the distinctive VW badge on the bonnet.

"It was incredibly realistic looking. It looked like you could get into it and drive away once you'd swept the snow off," said one local.

"The wardens eventually realised they'd been had when they tried to scrape the snow off the number plate and found there was no plate, just snow," they added.

But the prank has received a frosty reception from local police.

A spokesman said: "We can take a joke as well as the next person and it was a very convincing prank.

"But whether it was made of metal or snow it was still obstructing a road that should have been clear."

Thursday, March 14, 2013

haus auto group review!!

my experience
By LadyBlue_71 from Boardman, OH | March 13, 2013

the best experience i have had in my years of searching for a car. my salesman bent over backwards to accomidate my needs. THE BEST!!!

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Next Lincoln Navigator to drop V8 in favor of V6, but Ford Expedition might get both





A great many buyers fled from full-size body-on-frame SUVs to car-based crossovers in large measure to save fuel. But that doesn't mean there's still not a buying audience for more traditional truck-based utility vehicles, and those consumers doubtlessly wouldn't mind saving some dollars at the pump, too. According to Motor Trend, those shoppers might be in luck.

That's because the magazine has confirmed that Ford isn't walking away from the full-size SUV segment, and it's poised to do something about its offerings' economy ratings, too. According to MT, global Lincoln director Matt VanDyke has hinted that the next Navigator may drop two cylinders and go with a V6 model – the current model gets just 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway from its 5.4-liter V8. The obvious fitment would be Ford's 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, an engine that has spread like kudzu throughout the rest of the Blue Oval's large vehicle lineup.

Downsized turbocharged engines like Ford's EcoBoost franchise have come under fire as of late for not delivering their EPA fuel economy ratings, but their benefits extend beyond consumption – the 3.5L offers superior power and a better torque curve than the naturally aspirated V8. MT also suggests that Ford's 3.7-liter V6 could form the base engine for the next Navi – it has similar horsepower but a lot less torque than the current 5.4L. That may be less of a problem with the next generation tipped to go on a diet, which could level the playing field somewhat.

Interestingly, Ford will reportedly keep a V8 option in the Navigator's Blue-Oval-badged sibling, the Expedition. That may be a strategy partially borne out of cost, and partially out of concern that the Expedition's more traditional buying audience still maintains a strong affinity for simple and robust V8 engines. That said, MT says the Expedition could also get the 3.7L and the EcoBoost 3.5 V6s

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Chevy Volt's UK doppelgänger to be tested as an ambulance




We still can't figure out where those wacky British will fit the gurney, but we'll let that go as we report that the UK version of the Chevrolet Volt will be tested as an ambulance across the pond.

A Vauxhall Ampera, which, along with the Volt extended-range plug-in, was named the 2012 European Car of the Year last March, will be added to the Yorkshire Ambulance Service as an emergency response vehicle for the city of York, about 200 miles north of London.

The Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust will test its Ampera during "the next few months," Vauxhall says. Yorkshire Ambulance Service, which oversees a 900-vehicle fleet, is looking to cut its emissions by 30 percent during the next three years, hence the trial run. Vauxhall's press release is available below.
Show full PR text
VAUXHALL AMPERA TO BE TRIALLED IN AMBULANCE SERVICE

Luton – As part of the commitment to reducing its carbon emissions, Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust will be the first to trial a Vauxhall Ampera, the revolutionary extended-range electric vehicle, as part of its emergency fleet.

Over the next few months the Ampera will operate as a rapid response vehicle in the York area as part of the NHS Trust's emergency fleet, to see how low carbon vehicles might be incorporated into the Trust's fleet of more than 900 vehicles (emergency and Patient Transport Service).

Yorkshire Ambulance Service is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 30% by 2015, as well as reducing its spending on fuel. The E-REV technology in the Ampera, which won European Car of the Year 2012, makes it a good option for use in the emergency services as it benefits from both an electric motor and a petrol engine – so there isn't any concern about range anxiety.

The Vauxhall Ampera is the first electric vehicle to be trialled by an ambulance service on a long-term basis. "We are very excited to be the first ambulance service to trial an electric vehicle that will respond to incidents, reduce our emissions and provide significant savings on fuel costs. As it has both electric and petrol power we are confident that it is a viable alternative," commented Richard Smith, Fleet Manager for Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

City of York Council has agreed to support the trial by making plug-in electric charging points available across the city. Councillor Dave Merrett, Cabinet Member for Transport, Planning and Sustainability, said: "I very much welcome Yorkshire Ambulance Service's move to introducing lower emission vehicles to its fleet. This is a first for the UK and an initiative I hope other emergency services will adopt."

Dick Ellam, Manager, Vauxhall Special Vehicles, said: "We are delighted that the Ampera was chosen to be the first electric vehicle to be trialled as a frontline ambulance vehicle by the NHS Trust, and we are confident that the Yorkshire Ambulance Service will be impressed by the Ampera's durability, performance and economy."

For further information, please visit http://www.vauxhall.co.uk/fleet

How Long Does a New Battery in a Car Last?


Though battery problems are often associated with cold weather, Consumer Reports magazine says heat is a bigger enemy of car batteries and will take a bigger toll on performance and reserve capacity. The magazine recommends that vehicle owners in hotter parts of the country have their car battery tested after two years of ownership and then every year after. Those who live in colder areas can wait four years to test performance and capacity, and then every year after.
"Heat kills batteries," according to John Banta, a Consumer Reports project leader and part of the team that tests batteries for the magazine. "Many times in cold climates your battery fails to start your car on a below-freezing day. The reason this happens is that the heat of the past summers has weakened your battery. When you use it in the cold, the starter requires more electrical current to turn over the cold engine with its thickened oil."
Testing a battery's performance and reserve (or amp-hour) capacity is not just a matter of seeing whether it will hold a charge (or checking the electric eye found on some batteries to see if it is green), so testing is best done by an auto technician.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Haus Auto Group Review !!

Frank and Haus Auto Group
By Danielle from Canfield, Ohio 44406 | March 7, 2013

Frank was very tentative in making sure that the vehicle I wanted was available for me to purchase. I was a little uptight during the process but Frank reasured me that everyhthing would work out and he made me feel confident that the vehicle I was purchasing was a good buy and fit for me. He was very patient with me and all the questions that I asked. The finance department rocks! I'm satifised and happy that Haus Auto Group made this a great experience.

Rating from Danielle

Haus Auto Group review!!! thanks Eric

Great Price Great Service
By Eric B from Pittsburgh, PA | March 6, 2013

I recently traded in my 07' 300 on a 11' Dodge Grand Caravan at Haus Auto Group. After searching far and wide for the right van to meet my families needs I am very glad that I found the van I wanted at Haus. I got a great price on the vehicle and very fair trade value. In addition, the process was very easy and the service was execellent. Definately worth the drive up from the Burgh. My sales rep Frank Crone got me a vehicle that exceeded my expectations within my budget, can't ask for any more than that. I would absolutely recommend this dealer to my family and friends and would not hesitate to do business with them again in the future. Thanks Frank!


Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Haus auto group Review !!!


by Ryan from Boardman,OH | March 5, 2013

I refuse to deal with anybody else but Haus. I have bought five vehicles from Haus in under a year. From my first car; to my wife's Chrysler 300 and recently my Pontiac G6. Two weeks ago I traded in a Cadillac 2006 Deville Touring Sedan (DTS) I had purchased two months ago. There were really no problems with it, was very mechanically sound. But with a child on the way the prices of gas are astronomical especially for a V8. That is when I made the decision to explore a trade in to find a more economical vehicle. Frank and Kenny put a lot of work into making the trade in possible in such a short time of owning the car, and re - financing everything. They are very honest people not looking to rob you like most dealerships (i.e D&M Auto).. I know all of Haus Staff on a first name basis and I trust them with anything when it comes to my vehicles. Chris backs his business one hundred percent. Thanks Fellas, And a big thanks to Frank Crone,

thanks ryan !!!

Monday, March 4, 2013

Haus Auto Group Reviews !!

These guys are all great!!!
By Melissa Garrett from Struthers, ohio | March 4, 2013

I will go no where else to ever buy a car, I would recommend Haus Auto Group to anyone, Frank is wonderful and easy to work with, he was super understand of my situation and worked with me on keeping my payments where I was comfortable. He truly makes you feel like you are his number 1 priority from the moment you walk through the doors till the moment you are leaving in a new car that I like and not something I was pressured into buying, like most dealerships! Thanks again to all the guys especially Frank, I will be back and I will tell everyone to come to you guys

Rating from Melissa Garrett


THANKS MELISSA!!!

Top 10 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Car



A little extra TLC will keep your ride in its prime.

With winter right around the corner, your car, truck, minivan, SUV, or crossover is going to need a little extra TLC. So, we’ve put together our best expert auto care advice to keep your ride in its prime.

1. Drive with care everyday

Being kind to your car shouldn’t end after the honeymoon phase. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with fewer trips to the mechanic.
Do not race your car’s engine during start-up. This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.
Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive. The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation.
Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea. The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.
Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.
When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump.
2. Know what goes into your gas tank

Ask whether the gas you buy is filtered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump filters regularly. Some stations don’t have pump filters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel properly — or worse, water down their product. Find a station you trust and stick to it!

If you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.
3. Lighten up your key chain

Does your car key share a ring with a key that has a key attatched to another key with five more keys that you’re not even really sure what they’re for? Well, that’s a pretty heavy load hanging off the car key when it’s in the ignition. The weight, combined with bouncing while you drive, can wear out the tumblers inside the ignition and eventually lead to ignition switch failure. To get better longevity out of your ignition switch, purchase a lightweight key chain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others or better yet, drive with only the car key in your ignition. If your key “sticks” when you try to turn on the car, it’s a warning that your ignition switch is about to fail. Replace it before you get stranded.

4. Let floor mats take winter’s beating

Use floor mats to protect your carpeting. The best type of mat to help control salt, slush, and mud in the winter is a rubber “wafflestyle” mat. They stay in place, don’t allow the water to seep through, and are easy to wash clean. Carpet-style mats are helpful, too. Shake, vacuum, or wash as needed; replace them as they wear through.

When washing your car, drag out the rubber or carpet floor mats and blast them with the hose. This will dislodge dirt particles that, if allowed to build up, will grind holes in your mats. Let the mats dry thoroughly in the sun before reinstalling them.
After vacuuming floor mats or interior carpeting, apply foam rug cleaner to tough stains as directed by the maker. Work the foam into a few square feet at a time, using a wet sponge or brush. Vacuum when dry.
5. Preserve door and window seals

Wipe a rubber protectant (such as Armor-All) or silicone on door and window weather-stripping to keep it in good condition. Don’t use an oil based product, such as WD-40, because the oil will damage the rubber. Regular cleaning and treatment of your car’s weather-stripping will also lessen the likelihood of your door sticking to its rubber seal in cold weather, a common cause of damage to the rubber.

If the weather-stripping is letting rainwater leak into the interior of your car, take a look at it and decide if you can repair it or if it needs to be replaced. Small leaks can be handled with brush-on seam sealers. Re-secure loose sections, not otherwise damaged, with trim adhesive. Torn sections may be repaired with special caulking available at auto parts stores. You may also be able to extend the life of worn-but-intact sections by inserting foam rods, available at automotive stores, into the hollow section of the weather-stripping. If you decide to replace entire sections of gasket, don’t simply buy generic stuff such as you’d use around the house. Buy a product that matches your car’s original weather-stripping — it’s available in a wide variety of profiles from dealerships and automotive mail-order catalogues.
6. Fill with washer fluid only

Don’t add water to the windshield washer reservoir. It won’t clean as well as washer fluid, and it may freeze in cold weather and damage the system. Don’t try to run your windshield washer system once you suspect there’s no more fluid in the tank, or you may damage the washer fluid pump.

Cracked washer-deicer fluid tanks are fairly common once a car is of a certain age. A good remedy — until you can buy a new tank or find one at the junkyard — is to insert a plastic freezer bag into the tank and fill it with the washer fluid.
7. Don’t try to carry too much

Never exceed your car’s roof load specifications or weight limits.You can find them in your vehicle owner’s manual. Check the weight limitation of your roof rack as well. Typically the range is from 150 to 200 pounds (68 to 90 kg). That’s the equivalent of eighteen 8-foot 2 x 4s (2.4-meter 38 x 89s) or three sheets of 3/4-inch (17-mm) plywood. If you have to deliver a heavy load from the home or off to the ski slopes, consider having it delivered or getting a trailer. It will save wear and tear on you as well as your car.

Protect your car’s roof from scratches with an old blanket before tying lumber, bicycles, or luggage to your roof rack.
The beginning of the end for the finish on many cars and trucks — and for wagon and hatchback interiors for that matter — is an improperly stowed load. Invest in the appropriate racks for bicycles, cargo, and luggage. A good trick to keep tall objects from sliding around in a pick-up truck bed is to use a shower curtain rod (or two) as a brace. Just push the cargo against the front wall of the truck bed and install the rod behind it. Twist to secure. Cargo nets will also help keep objects from banging around and damaging a truck bed.
8. Wash in winter, too

If you rarely wash your car during messy winter weather, you are not alone. The cars you see on the road make it obvious that lots of folks figure, “why bother? The car is going to look awful the next time I drive it.” The problem with this is that washing is more important in the winter than other times of the year. All that sand, slush, and ice mixed with road salt is exactly what makes your car rust. The fastest corrosion occurs when the temperature repeatedly rises above and then falls below freezing. Especially during the messy months, be sure to rinse the undercarriage and hard-to-reach areas that are susceptible to rust, such as the bumpers and inside the wheel wells. If the temperature outside is going to stay above freezing long enough for your car and driveway to dry, fill a bucket with warm water and tackle the job at home. If not, pay a visit to your local car wash and be sure they dry the car thoroughly!

9. Tires, Keep the caps on

You step out into driveway ready to start your morning commute only to discover a flat tire. How in the heck did that happen overnight? If the tire valve is missing its cap, the culprit might be a leaky valve. Those little caps keep out dirt and moisture that can cause leaks, so be sure to keep caps on all your tire valves. Another tip: When you replace tires, remind the tire shop that you expect new valves with the tires.

Under-inflated tires are a tire salesman’s best friend. They create excessive heat and stress that can lead to tire failure. If you want to get every last mile out of your tires, get yourself a tire pressure gauge and use it at least once a month (more in hot weather) to keep your tires inflated to the recommendation in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Check tires when they are cold (driven for less than one mile) for an accurate reading.
If you top off your tires at a service station, check to see if there’s moisture coming from the air pump. Simply depress the pin inside the inflator valve with your thumbnail. If your thumb gets wet, advise the station manager that his tanks need to be drained and go to a different station. Moisture, trapped inside a tire, can cause pressure variations and corrode rims.
Check tires for uneven wear. If you’ve maintained tire inflation properly, uneven wear may indicate the need for wheel realignment. It can also mean improperly operating brakes or shocks, a bent wheel, internal tire damage, or worn bushings.
10. Hang on to your hubcaps

Clang, clang, clang! There goes your hubcap, rolling off to destination unknown. Hubcaps, wheel covers, and center caps can pop off your car’s wheels as you’re driving if they were not reinstalled correctly, have loosened over time, or if they were damaged by being jammed against a curb while parking. Here are some things you can do to keep these expensive parts on the car:
If your older metal hubcap has loosened, remove it and pry the metal clips outward slightly. This should fix the problem.
Newer plastic-type hubcaps and some wheel covers are usually held in place by a retaining wire ring that snaps into tabs on the wheel. When installing such a cap or cover, take care that you do not bend or break the tabs.
One way to make sure your expensive hubcaps aren’t damaged by a repair shop is to remove them yourself before taking your car in for a repair that requires wheel removal, such as a brake job or new tires. When reinstalling hubcaps, rest the hubcap in place and then tap it gently with a rubber mallet. Don’t hit the hubcap hard, or you might break the clips underneath. If you prefer to have your repair person remove the covers, check to make sure they were reinstalled properly. They should look even and flush.

tips to keep your used car running smoothly

Owning a used car can be a great way to save money on transportation. With the increased reliability of modern cars, it is not at all uncommon for cars to last 200,000 miles or more with only regular maintenance. Here are a few maintenance

Follow the Manufacturer’s Maintenance Schedule.
The manufacturer of your car created a schedule for how often to maintain the car and how to do it. Follow the schedule reliably to ensure that the car not only works well but also that any issues get identified and fixed. Not only is regular maintenance important when you have a older car but insurance is as well. Be sure to have the proper car insurance for your older used car. You may very well need classic auto insurance coverage.

Keep the Car Clean.
New cars typically have coatings that help them to repel salt from the underbody, dirt from the paint, and stains from the interior. In addition, their seals prevent dust and dirt from entering both the interior and mechanical parts of the car. Over time, these coatings and seals break down, leaving the car with less protection. Keeping the car clean protects it from these elements.

Check Your Own Fluids.
Many owners of new cars fail to check oil, coolant and other fluid levels assuming that since it is new, the car will be fine. While this is a foolish assumption with any car, it is especially dangerous with a used car. Keeping an eye on your fluids (most of which can be checked while you fill your gas tank) will let you spot and fix issues quickly.

Wax Your Exterior.
The sun and the elements are hard on your car’s paint. Keeping your car waxed does more than give it a nice shine. It helps it to repel water and protects the car’s surface from dirt, acid rain and road chemicals. This way, the world wears down the wax, instead of the paint underneath.

Use a Professional Mechanic.
Unless you earned an automotive degree, it’s best to have a professional mechanic repair the vehicle when there is a problem. Having a professional perform procedures as simple as changing your oil also ensures that it gets done right, and also gives them a chance to look at your car to spot problems.

Budget for Major Services.
People who buy and trade in new cars on a regular basis have likely never had to change brake rotors, flush a transmission, or replace a serpentine belt. As a car ages, additional maintenance items become due. If you budget for these expenses, you will be able to properly take care of your car.

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Stunt Drivers Spin through Real Life Hot Wheels Double Loop track


Team Hot Wheels has landed the Guinness World Record for successfully racing two real cars through a 60-foot tall double vertical loop at the X Games in Los Angeles over the weekend. The track was called the Team Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare and the six-story tall track is a real-life version of a Hot Wheels toy track.



The stunt was performed by Team Hot Wheels green driver Greg Tracy and yellow driver Tanner Faust. Faust and Tracy lined up side-by-side and launched from the starting line to a speed of 52 mph before entering the side-by-side loop. The drivers were subjected to a force of seven Gs as they went through the loops.



The duo successfully completed the loop and a small jump at the end to complete the stunt perfectly. It’s so cool to see a real-life six-story Hot Wheels racetrack set up with real cars zipping around just like the kids toys. Naturally, the double loop track was based on the new Team Hot Wheels Double Dare Snare track set available in toy stores everywhere.


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