At a driving school in Germany, the instructor was taking five volunteers through a slalom test in a front-drive car. The performance of each driver was videotaped and played back on a big screen at the end of each run. The first was at 35km/h. Two drivers skittled cones; we watched where they went wrong. "Turn the steering wheel with your forearms; don't wind it … [Read more...] about Tyres tell the truth about speed
Car performance
Car checks: the POWDER rule
Road safety experts call it the POWDER check, where drivers can quickly check that their vehicle is roadworthy before leaving home, particularly if they are setting out on a journey. It is all a matter of planning ahead to avoid the unnecessary delay of a breakdown. POWDER is … Petrol – Make sure that you have enough for the journey and plan refuelling stops. Oil – … [Read more...] about Car checks: the POWDER rule
Used car buying guide
Buying a used car can be a minefield. Do you go for a “sold new” in New Zealand example, or pick your way through used Japanese imports. Whatever, here are a few words of advice to help you through the buying process. [highlight]1. Stick to a budget.[/highlight] Not for just the cost of the car – but for the registration, insurance, and running costs. If you need a loan, … [Read more...] about Used car buying guide
Women’s guide to essential car checks
For many women, looking under the car bonnet is something we prefer to leave to the local mechanic. But knowing a few basic safety checks is important, both to keep you safe and to prevent costly repairs. Winter is an especially important time to ensure your car is roadworthy. Here are five simple checks you can easily learn to do yourself! 1. Brakes Listen out for … [Read more...] about Women’s guide to essential car checks
Keep your car performing properly and running cleanly
There are a number of things that you can do to maximise your driving time and to help keep your car performing properly and running cleanly. Look after your car Avoid cold starts Cold starts are where the journey that we drive is too short for the car engine to warm up to its optimum temperature, such as a short trip down to the shops and back. Short trips … [Read more...] about Keep your car performing properly and running cleanly