How Fast Can You Go?

One of major components of the antilock braking system (ABS) is the speed sensor. Its job is to actually initiate the process so that the other parts of the ABS could do their functions well. It measures how fast the car is running.

This is done by the speed sensors by providing accurate information to the system. When the car’s speed has gone over the limit, these sensors inform the system to lock up. These sensors are located at each wheel. It measures the speed by computing how fast does the crankshaft of your car spins.

A speed sensor is wireless. It measures not only speed but distance as well. They are made up of a toothed metal disc.

Noises No More

A car cannot be free from any kind of noise or sound. But the noise can be reduced with the assistance of sound deadeners.

Sound deadeners are made up of asphaltic mastic acoustical shet material. This material works best at damping or reducing vibrations. Here’s something quite scientific: vibrations when reduced also reduce resonant noise. Meaning, it reduces sound and noise.

A fundamental part of sound deadeners are its pressure-sensitive adhesives. They are resistant to heat so you need not replace them every month.

Oxygen Sensors

What are oxygen sensors?
An oxygen sensor is one of the most important sensors you can find your car. It may look like your spark plug but it is not a spark plug. Tinker your car and you will find it located somewhere between the turbo and the catalytic converter.

What is it made of?
It has a ceramic body. Its tip is made of platinum. This tip is also protected by a metal casing. The other parts are coated. And this is what is exposed to the oxygen.

What does the oxygen sensor do for your car?
The other part that is exposed to the oxygen is what comes in contact to the exhaust system of your car. It monitors the air-fuel mixture by measuring the oxygen content of the exhaust gases. Later on, it sends out a voltage signal to the ECU (Electronic Control Module).

Car Wash: You Can Do It Yourself!

Dirt could accumulate. The longer dirt stays on your vehicle, the greater the chances of these dirt to actually become permanent stains. That is something you surely would not like to have. After all, it only makes your car look dull and old. The solution: wash your car regularly.

Here are some reminders when you do have to wash your own car:
* Wash your car only in shaded places. Direct sunlight only makes the water evaporate faster, thus leaving marks on your vehicle.
* Hose your car down. This removes dust and those elements (like bird droppings) easily. Also, while you are at it, spray inside the wheels to remove road salt and debris. Try using warm water to moisten and soften tough spots.
* Best cloth to use? Sheepskin mitt. Or soft cotton cloth. Sponges are a no-no for they only scratch the paint.
* Use a good car wash shampoo or soap and not any ordinary house cleaner.
* Be organized and start cleaning your car and work your way to the bottom.

Basic Things To Check

Lights – keep your indicators and headlamps clean. Make sure that they are working properly.

Fuel – be sure that you would not be caught on an empty tank. You would not know where you might get stuck.

Water – always check if the water reservoir is at the maximum mark. Also check if it has been mixed properly with the right amount of ant-freeze. You do not know the mixture? It usually is one third (1/3) anti-freeze and two-thirds (2/3) water. To be sure, you can check your car owner’s manual.

Oil – check the oil levels. Look for any leakages. If there are, you do need to find out why and fix ‘em up.

Windshield and wipers – wipers should be cleaned. Tip: replace the blades every year.

Rubber – make sure your tires are in good condition and do not look like it has gone through much wear and damage. Remove any stones or treads in the flint. Also check your tire pressure. Including the spare tire.

Smallest Street-Legal Car

[from the Guinness Book of World Records]

Peel P50
* length: 134 cm
* width: 99 cm
* height: 134 cm
* built by Peel Engineering Co., from Manchester, UK

Most Valuable Car

[from the Guinness Book of World Records]

Bugatti Type 41 Royale
* length: six meters
* wheelbase: 4.3 meters
* engine: 12.7 liter, eight cylinders