#that my car is okay and the battery has been tested and the brakes and shit

[cloud-somersault]

car repairs wait what happened to your car 😭

nothing happened! i just went in to get an oil change and just wanted a comprehensive check up. And they found the rear breaks needed repairing (i had a feeling some of my brakes were going bad) and so i paid for that. and the oil change. and uhhh everything else is looking really good!!!

[hargrove-mayfields]

okay so I saw this amazing post by @deardmvz and it reminded me that I had a similar wip laying around somewhere and she requested I finish it!! so here it is!!

Billy thought it would be a breeze, taking a road trip to Tennessee with Steve sounded like nothing compared to the thirty some odd hours he’d spent in the car from California to Indiana.

But twice on the way down the Camaro, on her last leg after repairs, had threatened to give up on them, the brakes getting testy until he had to pull over and give her a rest. It was the summer, and the a/c kept cutting out. Everyone seemed to have the same idea as them, and the roads were packed.

With the car giving them trouble, Steve refused to let him go any more than five over before he started gripping the seat and demanding he slow down, so what had been supposed to be a six hour trip turned into closer to ten.

So much for an easy trip.

By the time they were finally rolling into town, of course struggling to find a parking space anywhere near their destination, Billy was already dreading the drive back to Hawkins.

Because the only reason they were even here was because Steve had a craving for some taffy he’d gotten as a kid when he was down south visiting his grandma, so the minute they popped into that little candy shop and got what they were here for, they’d be back on the road within the hour.

This was a tourist trap kind of town too, 3D movie theaters and putt-putt courses and tacky museums galore, so he seriously doubted they would even be able to afford much more than a little bag of candy if they tried to stick around.

It’s decidedly worth it though, having spent all that time in the car, because he gets to see Steve all excited like, acting just like a kid again as he drags him through the crowded streets, stopping at the window of the candy shop with a smile pressed against the glass. Excitedly, he declares, “It’s still here!”

So Billy tries his best to return the smile and not let his grimace at the unexpected difficulty of the trip or the frankly ridiculous prices the place was charging for candy show. He remembers how he’d felt when he realized he would never have a cake from the local bakery back in his hometown for one of his or Max’s birthdays again, so he’d let Steve have this. Even if it cost ten bucks for a pound of taffy logs.

He buys himself a bag of cordial cherries too, figures he might as well get a little something out of it if the trip was going to be such a pain. The smile that Steve gives him when he has his own purchase at the checkout doesn’t go unnoticed either.

With their mission achieved, Steve practically skips back to where they’d left the Camaro in a pay-to-park lot a few blocks over. He stops at the drivers side door, hooks two fingers through the handle. “So who’s driving?”

“Uh-uh. You’re not taking my baby anywhere buzzed on sugar.” Steve pouts, but he doesn’t argue. Just circles around the other side and gets comfortable in the passenger seat.

Billy’s glad, because he doesn’t think he would’ve made it the whole way back home with Steve ‘drives like his late grandma’ Harrington behind the wheel.

Not too long into the ride back it’s already starting to get dark. It’s much quieter this time around, much calmer too, with the roads seeming to clear out as the sun disappears behind the mountains.

Were it not for the occasional crinkle of a candy wrapper, Billy probably wouldn’t have even known Steve was still awake, the way he was leaning so far back into his seat.

But in the same way that Steve’s back seat driving on the way up had made him feel tense, the silence makes him feel jittery, and the dark makes him paranoid. The prospect of at least another four hours in the car makes him feel trapped.

He reaches over and turns the radio on to distract from the emptiness, probably pushing the dial a bit more aggressive than was necessary, and a talk show, some sad sap call-in station where you overshare with the dj and they dedicate you a song that’s supposed to make you feel better, fills the silence, drowns out the irritating sound of tires on pavement.

He isn’t paying any attention, he’d turned it down as far as he could and still be able to hear it, so he must have missed something, because Steve sits bolt upright, bringing with him the previously reclined seat with a creak of the springs to exclaim, “Oh my god, Bill.”

He glances over at Steve for the briefest of seconds before his eyes quickly flick back to the road ahead, his heart skipping for just a second when he realizes he hadn’t been watching. “The taffy not as good as you remember it?”

“No it totally is. It’s our song, it’s on the radio.” His sounds like he’s going to burst from excitement as he explains himself and cranks the volume way high. Definitely too much sugar.

Though it’s not quite as extreme as Billy usually keeps it, it's still loud enough it takes a moment for his ears to adjust and recognize what is indeed the piano intro to what Steve had declared ‘their song’, of which he insists, “You gotta sing it babe.”

The concept of having a song was a fairly recent one, something that had been decided when Billy had started moving his things into Steve’s place, and he’d found some old record albums of his mothers that he’d kept hidden in his room for years.

Most of them were warped and scratched so badly they skipped through entire songs until they were unrecognizable as music. Others were covered in so many layers of dust and dirt they’d have needed hosed off before even thinking about putting them in their player.

Among the very few records still undamaged after being moved and stored for far too long were Farewell Andromeda, Electronically Tested, and a 45 of Don’t Go Breaking My Heart/Snow Queen.

John Denver was so not their speed, and Mungo Jerry was just a little too far out there for their tastes, so they kept the 45 and trashed or gave away most of the rest, if the sentimental value wasn’t too strong.

That little record was the sort of middle ground of their tastes, though neither would have ever fessed up about the soft spot for old pop to the other were it not for finding that old single under Billy’s bed, but from then on they’d spun it in Steve’s old console player more times than anyone should have been able to stand.

Over time, in the storage side of the player, they amass quite the collection of similar albums, more Elton John, ABBA, and god, Billy would never admit this to anyone, but goddamn Bees Gees, both on vinyl and cassette, but Don’t Go Breaking My Heart/Snow Queen forever held a special place in their hearts, and in their music rotation.

Everytime it came on the little battery radio in the kitchen or either slipped it into the player, it was tradition that they’d drop whatever they were doing and sing along with Elton and Kiki.

Just because, the romantic that he was, Steve had decided it was their song.

And honestly, Billy couldn’t argue with that, for obvious reasons the lyrics were special to the both of them, and the song was designed to be insanely catchy anyways, but right now he was busy driving, focusing all his attention on every dark corner of the road ahead. “‘M drivin’ Stevie.”

“Pleeease?” Steve glances between the radio and Billy with those puppy dog eyes of his, and offers a pointless bribe, just to help make his case. “I’ll give you a taffy.”

“Alright, alright.” Billy didn’t care about taffy, in all truthfulness he thought it was disgusting, definitely not a treat worth a minimum six hour drive for, but even watching the road he could see the expectant look in his boyfriends eyes from the passenger seat, so it didn’t take much convincing.

They’d missed the first few lines while they were debating it, so he tells Steve, “You start it then.”

With a smile that made it worth it, he does. He turns the volume up even higher and jumps right in on Kiki Dee’s “You take the weight off of me”

That was the indisputable rule Steve had established the very first time they’d played the record, that he would always sing Kiki’s parts of the song, and Billy Elton’s. Billy still didn’t really know exactly why that was, but he didn’t see a reason to argue.

So he does his line, “Oh honey when you knock on my door” and Steve gives him the biggest smile he can muster, as though he wasn’t expecting him to actually join in, and goes straight into his next with all the more enthusiasm. “Ooh, I gave you my key”

Ooh, nobody knows it

When I was down

I was your clown

Ooh, nobody knows it

Right from the start

I gave you my heart

Oh, I gave you my heart

Billy’s been known to get super into the whole thing, dancing like a goof, using anything he can find as a microphone just to get a rise out of Steve, but there’s a definite lack of that enthusiasm this time around.

It’s not that he doesn’t care about doing things like this like this with Steve, quite frankly, just the fact that they were even to a point in their relationship to have something as cheesy as their own song meant the world to him. He just was feeling, a little off.

So don't go breaking my heart

I won't go breaking your heart

Don't go breaking my heart

Steve definitely catches it, he’s the master at being able to tell when Billy’s not feeling his best. He calculates, and waits until the next break in the song to put his hand on Billy’s thigh. To let him know that the lyrics are directed at him. To remind him of the reason why they ever picked a damned Elton John song to be theirs.

And nobody told us

Because nobody showed us

And now it's up to us babe

Oh, I think we can make it

So don't misunderstand me

You put the light in my life

Oh, you put the spark to the flame

I've got your heart in my sights

It’s like an unspoken conversation, carried out entirely through the touch of Steve’s skin against his, the few seconds of eye contact Billy’s willing to allow before he’s back to watching the road, through the song on the radio that was theirs.

Ooh, nobody knows it

When I was down

I was your clown

Ooh, nobody knows it

Right from the start

I gave you my heart

Oh, I gave you my heart

Ever since being discharged from the hospital, no matter how hard he tried to appreciate being alive and what not, Billy still had moments like these where he was distant, only engaging with part of himself. It made him feel ungrateful, selfish. Like he didn’t deserve it.

Don't go breaking my heart

I won't go breaking your heart

Don't go breaking my heart

Now that he really thought about it, he’s guessing the only reason Steve had even made him drive all the way to Tennessee for a bag of candy they could have just bought at the dollar store was because he knew it was one of those days.

Ooh, nobody knows it

When I was down

I was your clown

Right from the start

I gave you my heart

Oh, I gave you my heart

It’s certainly the reason he’s belting his heart out in the passenger seat of Billy’s car to a lame old pop song, and it’s at least, in some small part, the reason why Billy’s heart feels so full at the sight of it.

Don't go breaking my heart

I won't go breaking your heart

Don't go breaking my

Don't go breaking my

Don't go breaking my heart

Don't go breaking my

Don't go breaking my

I won't go breaking your heart

Don't go breaking my heart

Don't go breaking my

I won't go breaking your heart

Don't go breaking my heart

Don't go breaking my

The song fades out before it’s over, the last few lines of the chorus cut off by a dj on a time schedule, but they finish it anyways, shouting over each other and the next song as it begins to play.

Steve dissolves into a fit of giggles, and Billy’s sure if he wasn’t driving he’d kiss the life out of him right then.

The radio gets turned back down to just background noise, and Steve gets settled back in again. He keeps humming to himself from where he’s settled back against the door in his reclined seat. It’s most likely an unconscious action, he does that a lot when he's drowsy, but it’s successful in keeping the tension out of the car.

At least, Billy doesn’t feel even half as on edge about the estimated three hours still left before they’d be back in Hawkins as he did before.

Because even if it started a little shaky, he was glad to have spent the day with nobody but Steve. No nosy teenaged brats refusing to mind their own business, no bosses calling them into work, no doctors appointments or friends dropping by for unannounced visits.

It was just him and Steve and the open road, and EJ and Kiki Dee, and a little bit of expensive candy, that helped too.

[gruntydiecast]

Casting Call: Vector W8

First off, I’d like to apologize for the fact that I’ve not been updating my Tumblr lately. I’ve been busy at work and haven’t had time to write something. To make up for this... I’m writing quite possibly one of my longest posts yet.

By popular demand, this is the casting you chose on Instagram for me to document: the Vector W8. Grab some popcorn, a drink or some music... and enjoy the read. This is also in some ways a car that time forgot, but it’s not a concept car... but I can break the rules because I made them.

When it comes to cars of the ‘80s, there is a debate as to what the best car of the era was. Many say it would be either the Lamborghini Countach or the Ferrari Testarossa. But I have something that is neither of those things. Today, we’re going to take a trip down memory lane and explore the car that attempted to elevate a small company to the dizzying heights of the supercar realm. This... is the Vector W8.

First, here’s a bit of background. The W8 was manufactured by a company known as Vector Motors, then known as Vector Aeromotive. The company was founded in 1971 as Vehicle Design Force by Gerald “Jerry” Wiegert in Wilmington, California; we’ll get to the full history of Vector in a post in the near future because it is honestly very interesting.

In essence, the W8 was a highly refined version of the Vector W2, one of the company’s initial prototypes (the “W” in the name stood for “Wiegert”). Wiegert wanted to put the W2 into production, but an economical downturn prevented him from doing so. However, by the ‘80s, Wiegert had eventually secured enough capital through public stock offerings and even various lawsuits, allowing him to chase his dream: to build his ultimate sports car, designed and built by his own company.

Design inspiration for the W8 (and by extension the W2) came from this green car: the Alfa Romeo Carabo (Hot Wheels actually did a model of this way back when). Its sleek, futuristic and aerodynamic design was perfect for Wiegert, especially with the aerospace theme the company was going for in the ‘80s.

Combining the sleek looks of the Carabo with the geometry and technology of fighter jets of the time like the F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon and F/A-18 Hornet, Wiegert and chief designer David Kostka set out to create what would be quite possibly the most insane supercar of the ‘80s, and probably still is now: the Vector W8. The term “Aeromotive Engineering” was used to describe the process of manufacturing this car, for the car used the newest and most advanced aerospace materials when manufacturing the W8.

The car passed the mandatory DOT crash tests and emissions tests. It used a semi-aluminum monocoque chassis which was epoxy bonded and riveted using 5000 aircraft-specification rivets with an aluminum honeycomb floorpan. The body was made mainly of carbon fiber and Kevlar. The car featured scissor doors, like a Lamborghini.

The beating heart of the W8 was this: a highly-modified aluminum resleevable 6.0L Rodeck twin-turbocharged racing V8 with variable boost pressure. The engine produced 625 horsepower and made 649 lb⋅ft (880 N⋅m) of torque at 4,900 rpm at 8 psi of boost pressure, and as if the Rodeck V8 couldn’t get any more ridiculous, it featured TRW forged pistons, Carrillo stainless steel connecting rods, stainless steel valves and roller rocker arms, a forged crank, a dry-sump oiling system with three separate filters and braided stainless steel hoses with anodized red and blue fittings. This engine sounded mad; click here to hear a Vector starting up and revving.

Yes, you heard that correctly; variable boost. The boost for both turbochargers was adjustable from 8 to 14 psi through a dial in the interior. And speaking of which, let’s talk about that next; because, if you thought the engine was already mad enough, the interior is on a whole other level.

As you can see, the interior of the W8 is mad. Fighter jet-inspired screen? Check. A million buttons everywhere? Check. Gauges? ...no check. And hang on... is that what I think it is? A Turbo-Hydramatic 425 transmission?

Yep, that’s right, and that just makes the car a lot more insane; this ridiculously powerful 6.0L Rodeck V8 was mated to a 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic 425 automatic transmission. Next to it on the right was the handbrake, sort of shaped like the throttle on a fighter jet. Due to the placement of the transmission and the handbrake, the driver side doorsill is very, very wide, making it a bit tough for the driver to get in and out of the car. You will also notice that there are buttons on top of the gear stick. I’ll get to those now.

As if this car couldn’t get any more ridiculous. This is the screen of the Vector W8, with four different settings (controlled with those four buttons), marked “Main”, “Performance”, “Performance” again and “Chassis”. This is the “Main” screen, showing the odometer, fuel gauge, speedometer and tachometer.

This is the first “Performance” screen, showing engine temperature, oil pressure and temperature, the tachometer reading and various other metrics.

The third screen was the second “Performance” screen, showing the transmission pressure (because it had a torque converter) and transmission temperature as well as battery voltage.

The last screen was the “Chassis” screen, which showed a picture of the W8 which updated in real time when a door was opened, when the engine compartment was opened and so on.

On the other side, you will notice that the W8 doesn’t actually have a partition between the driver and passenger side footwells. So it is a little awkward. This car also has no glovebox; in its place is a... CD changer?

Yes, that’s right. The car came with an in-car stereo... and a Sony CDX-A2001 ten-disc CD changer which graced the entire right side of the car’s already insane instrument panel. This was a nice innovation, although it did came with one drawback; no passenger-side airbags. Good luck if you get into a crash riding shotgun.

Back to the interior though. It was upholstered in premium leather and suede, with electrically adjustable leather Recaro seats and featured a premium air-conditioning system. Some driving amenities such as power steering were excluded. The seating position for the driver was made slightly towards the center for better drivability.

The rear of the W8 was dominated by lines, and the rear sightline... wasn’t very good, mainly because of that gigantic wing. The license plate holder is located on the left and apparently may have been an afterthought. “TWINTURBO” is seen gracing the back.

The car also features a trunk which is just behind the engine.

As for the front... oh, right, the headlamps. They’re not pop-up... they’re pop-DOWN.

The car also has a storage cubby up front, although really, it wasn’t much.

Also gracing the front were windshield wipers, as you would expect on practically every other car. However, there wasn’t just one, nor was there just two: there were THREE. A moonroof was also standard. It also had sliding side windows like a race car, as well as power-adjustable side mirrors.

The logo on the side of the car was the only thing that really gave any indication as to what manufacturer it was.

The car had unique six-spoke “turbine” wheels fitted to Michelin XGT Plus tires; the car used 255/45ZR-16s in the front and very, very strange 315/40ZR-16s in rear. These wheels were apparently of a bespoke design made to the driver’s specifications. 

In terms of suspension, the W8 featured double A-arms up front and De Dion tube suspension at the rear, located by four trailing arms that stretched all the way forward to the firewall. The W8 used 13-inch vented disc brakes with Alcon aluminum 4-piston calipers.

In terms of performance, the Vector shined; it claimed to be able to do 389 km/h (242 mph) and a 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) time of 3.9 seconds. These numbers were never officially tested, but if true, these are very impressive numbers for the time. Okay, enough about the W8’s performance and figures; let’s get to the part you’ve been waiting for, the history.

The W8 was first introduced in 1988 with a sticker price of about $185,000, priced within striking range of European competitors like the Lamborghini Diablo.

One high profile owner of a W8 was this man: Andre Agassi, although he ended up giving the car a bit of a bad rap. Agassi had insisted that his car be delivered before it was fully prepared; Vector agreed to this on the condition that Agassi not drive it and keep it in storage as the car was adjusted for the various emissions regulations in place. Agassi did not listen and drove it and ended up burning the rear carpeting due to an overly hot exhaust system; Agassi ended up requesting for a refund, which was ultimately granted. I’ll let you decide who’s at fault here.

Car And Driver magazine also tested the W8, but couldn’t complete testing because all three cars they were sent somehow managed to break down in different ways, leading to even more bad publicity. However, not all is bad as Road and Track magazine waxed lyrical about the Vector, praising practically every aspect of the W8’s performance.

Vector was still going strong in 1993, selling W8s; however, Wiegert was already planning for a successor. That successor was to be known as the AWX-3, better known as the WX-3 (Hot Wheels also made a model of this one too), where the name stood for Avtech Wiegert eXperimental, 3rd generation.

I’ll get into more details of the WX-3 in a later blog when I receive my WX-3 from the United States. Production of the W8 ultimately came to a halt in 1993 as Wiegert attempted to put the WX-3 into production; however, as the company was engaged in a hostile takeover by a Bermuda-based Indonesian company known as MegaTech, production never resumed and Vector entered a sharp decline. I’ll get into the rest of that history in another post.

In total, twenty-two cars were produced; seventeen of which were customer cars and five of which were prototypes. The car is now worth over $1 million today; so, if for some reason you ever see a car that looks like this on the roads, drop everything and take as many pictures as you can, because you have just seen one of only twenty-two Vector W8s. Okay, now that we’ve gotten all that out of the way, let’s get to the reason why you’re here.

This... is the Hot Wheels version of the Vector W8. Named the Vector W8 Twinturbo in the Hot Wheels lineup, this casting was first introduced in the 2012 HW Boulevard series in the Ahead Of Its Time sub-series. This casting was designed by Manson Cheung.

The base of the W8 features no mention of “Vector” anywhere; instead, just the SKU is displayed: W4831.

The sides feature the text “VECTOR W8 TWINTURBO” and nothing else. Black lines streak across the back to represent the engine cover.

The rear fascia is nice, although my only real gripe is a lack of rear detail apart from the engine cover.

The front fascia is also well done, with “VECTOR” and “TWIN TURBO” on the windshield, although a lack of detail on the body apart from the side reflectors leaves me wanting more. The interior is painfully cramped so I can’t get any good photographs, but what I see are the Turbo-Hydramatic shift lever, the steering wheel, seats and molded pedals (those pedals are part of the base). The distinctive screen and CD changer are absent from the instrument panel, but of course, you can’t have everything.

Folks, I believe you may have heard of the term “One-Hit Wonder” before. This is exactly an example of that; the W8 only saw one release in the HW Boulevard series and has not been seen since. As a result, prices for the Vector have been steadily climbing on eBay and I don’t see them going down for some time; why don’t you take a look for yourself?

I hope this long writeup has given you a better idea on this turbocharged thrasher, and what is quite possibly my new favorite supercar from the ‘80s; step aside, Lamborghini Countach. As usual, I’d do something like this any day.

This article is the first in a three-part series I will call The Vector Saga. The series will document the W8, the WX-3, and the history of Vector Motors as a whole.

[miraculousturtle]

dealership stories

SO TODAY IS PART GOOD NEWS AND PART DEALERSHIP STORY FUCKERY. LIKE. I CANNOT. CAN. NOT. WITH TODAY.

it’s like god woke up today and went: hmmmm. ana has been a good human kinda. time to shake her day up. SHAKE HER DAY UP. I MAKE IT SO.

Where to start? Let’s just make a shit sandwhich and begin with some dealership fuckery. 

(BUT THIS STORY ENDS ON THE MOST WILDEST OF RIDES I PROMISE UNDER THE CUT)

So. This customer has this car that’s totally messed up. like on the way over for her appointment on friday, the car died and had to be towed in because the BATTERY HAD NO JUICE BECAUSE THE CAR IS THAT SHITTY AND THE OWNER DOESN’T DRIVE IT.

 well, that’s fine. we charge that sucker up, do the airbag recall, and i’m trying to sell them brakes. brakes are an awesome upsell. i like that upsell. 

THEY WANT THE BRAKES BUT THEY ARE LIKE “wait, i need to get my car smogged.” 

“omg, sir, we do smog here. let me do for it for you.” 

i shouldn’t have said anything. i knew the car was fucked up. the key barely works in the tumbler. you have wiggle it around and it’s a nightmare. 

but i did and they were like GREAT so here i go, to take it down the smog guy and the key doesn’t work right. had to get the tech wiggle it around for me because i lack the touch.

tried to roll down the front window. it rolls down but doesn’t come up unless you pull it up with your hands. several times. 

the pass side window doesn’t roll down either

did i mention that it has no rear brakes? it has 1mm for rear brakes. no one should be driving that car lmao 

find the smog guy and he’s like -_-

“give it it to the porter so he can drive it around to get everything up and running so i can do the smog”

i prepare my porter for battle. i warn him that this car is deathtrap and it might not have A/C. he dons his armor

a few hours later i call the smog guy because i haven’t had any updates

he finally picks up and is like “this car is a piece of shit, but i can’t run codes because the porter couldn’t drive it enough because it kept stalling. so we’re gonna try again.” 

MIRACULOUSLY. MIRACULOUSLY. 

the car passes smog despite it’s on its last legs

I PASSED THE FIRST EXAM FOR LA COUNTY

last week i study super hard for this test

the test is super easy

now i finally get to take the hard test and if i pass and do well on this next test, i get to go to the group interview

this job pays like min $62K min

all you need is a master’s degree

I…I have a master’s degree

like seriously, i’m perfect. pls pay me lots of money to do things i can already do and that’s like somehow applicable to my studies???

THE ULTIMATE DEALERSHIP FUCKERY HAPPENED. OVER THE STUPIDEST THING AND A LADY IS TRYING TO SAY SHE’S GOING TO CALL THE STATE ON ME BECAUSE SHE THINGS I PUT EXTRA CHARGES ON HER TICKET

backstory: my supervisor told me not to let that woman come. to not let her show up. to not schedule her an appointment. but did i listen?

no

i did not

anytime this woman comes she passes out flyers for her music classes which is super awkward 

and tries to use coupons from other dealerships that we can’t use because they literally say to be only used at THAT DEALERSHIP

she will then call everyone up and down southern california trying to price match and we’re like

dude

we’re still going to charge you this much

and she still comes back. it’s awful.

well, today i forgot it was here and everything was going well

she signed for her estimate for $69.95 for her full synthetic oil change and tire rotation. the same price we always charge and ADVERTISE SINCE FOREVER

everything is fine until i read her the total. $77.89 because of taxes and the oil disposal fee.

YOU KNOW TAXES. AND RECYCLING FEES. THE SAME THINGS SHE HAS BEEN PAYING FOR SINCE SHE’S HAD A CAR FOR MORE THAN MY LIFETIME. 

she looks at me asks why i didn’t quote her that in the first place and I was like “ma’am I can’t quote you taxes. i quote you our service. it’s 69.95″

“you’re breaking the law by misquoting me.”

“ma’am i did not misquote you. by law, i can’t quote you the taxes.” 

SHE THEN PROCEEDS TO TELL ME SHE’S GOING TO CALL THE STATE ON ME AND HER BROTHER IS AN MECHANIC FOR AUTO REPAIR SHOPS WHO INVESTIGATES THESE THINGS

(that’s a lie. B.A.R. (bureau of automotive repairs) have their own auditors who do this work…not mechanics.) 

I tell her to go ahead. please contact the state. by all means.

She glares at me and signs her paperwork. 

THEN BITCH SIGNS BY HER NAME THAT and i quote “I was told this was going to be $69) 

OH MY GOD I WAS SEETHING RED. SEETHING RED.

i felt bad because i was so mad i wasn’t as wonderful as I usually am to my next customer :( 

THE WILDEST ROLLER COASTER IS ABOUT TO START. LIKE FRIENDS. FRIENDS. FRIENDSSSSS. I kinda accepted a new job?!?!?!

so a few weeks ago, i joined ziprecruiter. 10/10. my resume has never had so many views until recently and the mobile apply is such an awesome feature. IT’S SO GOOD.

i vaguely remember selecting the option to have them send my resume out to other people and they did

enter smartrecruiters. so this company finds me and tells me they want to do an online interview

i got one of these messages last week but it was so weird that they didn’t tell me who they were so it felt like scam

THIS ONE ACTUALLY PUT THE COMPANY THEY WERE AND I WAS LIKE?? Okay. why not.

they’re global. have a lot of locations. have a wikipage. and have been around since 1859. seems legit. they’re opening up an LA office next month so this could be exciting. i want to move to LA.

So i set up the interview for my lunch hour

it’s kinda weird? the interview because it’s all chat base and I’m doing it on my phone at farmer’s boy but I’m answering the questions a bit more the direct side because i’m just typing on my phone.

the interview finishes and i’m like well–this was a great learning experience! and i learned about how I would respond. 

she says she’s impressed and that she will speak to her supervisors and will be back to me in 15-20 mins. to please wait kindly by my device were her words

so i wait. 

an hour goes by

i’m like fuck i guess i didn’t get it. the pay would have been sweet. just a little over 48K per year. damn. maybe on an industry i wanted, but doing a role a like. admin assistant.

I THEN GET A MESSAGE SAYING WOULD I LIKE TO HEAR WHAT THEY DECIDED?!

she sends a cute little emoji

I GOT THE JOB. 

 there are great benefits. training. pay???? THINGS. I GOT THE JOB????? AND IT PAYS ALMOST 50K A YEAR?!?!

i’m just waiting on my formal offer and once I have that, I will put in my two weeks notice. 

Like

wow

i’m really adulting right now. this is insane. INSANE.

BONUS: I found in my spam folder an invite to set up an phone interview with LA City of Commerce. Like did the universe decide it wants me today????

[kissmytommo-blog]

Learn to install a car stereo - Best Aftermarket Car Stereos

Hello everyone, this is JR. I work at Best Aftermarket Car Stereos and today we will do an auto stereo establishment. We'll simply go over the fundamentals of how to introduce an auto stereo into an auto, well a truck really.

Step #1: Disconnect the auto's negative battery terminal

So we've set the crisis brake, and now we need to disengage the negative battery link. We disengage the negative battery link in light of the fact that if our torque accidently touches any metal in here, it's as of now grounded, it doesn't cause any sparkles or blazes or flames or anything like that. What's more, we're disengaged, and we'll sort of tuck this off the beaten path so it can't accidently reconnect itself.

Step #2: Disassemble the dash

Okay, so we will pry out the dash to uncover the radio, to get down to the radio, and in this truck, we need to take out the piece that goes the distance from here to ideal here. It's one major piece around the radio. In a considerable measure of autos, it's only one little bit of dash trim that can be pried out, however in this truck, again we must expel this board here along these lines, got a trim board device, and I will begin prying and getting this board out.

It's a mix of utilizing the instrument and your fingers. The device helps spare your fingertips so you don't, you don't wind up pulling your fingernails off - that is unpleasant by any means.

OK, resembles the board's free. We'll kind of warily get it out of the dash here. There's likely going to be some wiring connectors we'll need to disengage. Crush that in that spot; got that one. Furthermore, another here. OK get the last wiring connector unplugged and I imagine that ought to be every one of them. Presently we ought to have the capacity to remove this whole board from the dash. There we go. Good, we have our dash out.

So we have our dash trim board off, and now we've quite recently got the opportunity to get the radio out and this procedure is genuinely comparable in many vehicles. There are normally a few fastens holding it. It could be a Philips head or a level head or an attachment or the like - that is the thing that we have today is a 9/32nds attachment to evacuate these four screws.

Also, our four screws are out. So now we can haul the radio out of the dash and disengage it. Okay this is our reception apparatus association ideal here, this enormous tackle here, and disengage this last outfit. We have our processing plant radio out of the dash and our dash is presently kind of prepared for the new radio. So now we'll go into the shop, we'll get our wiring tackle all associated and prepared to go. We'll put the radio in the establishment unit and we'll return around here so we can begin to assemble this thing back.

Step #3: Connect the wiring bridle

So we have here the bridle that accompanied the radio and the tackle that attachments into the vehicle, the vehicle particular fitting. We will interface these wires to these wires so I will simply ahead and start associating these wires. I'll begin with the ground wires where I'll simply turn the copper together here, at that point I will take my posi-connectors, we're doing these as opposed to fastening since they are so straightforward, so natural to introduce, and it makes a pleasant tight association. It's that simple, truly. So now our ground wires are as one and tight and we can move onto our next one. So what's pleasant so far is the wires on both the vehicle particular outfit and the radio's saddle have been coordinated shading for work so our yellow is our steady wire, our dark is our ground wire, our red is our exchanged power wire.

You may have seen a couple of additional wires on this saddle we're not tending to or attaching at the present time - we'll manage those later. This green wire's our stopping brake wire; we require that on the grounds that the radio has a screen on it and we will need to interface it to our stopping brake. What's more, in case you're connecting quite recently even more a customary beneficiary that doesn't have a video screen on it, you won't have the stopping brake wire, or the switch wire on there. So these are additional wires that are for this beneficiary particularly.

So we've completed the saddle. We have the vehicle particular saddle associated with the radio tackle. We will move onto gathering the establishment pack which is the thing that holds the radio in the dash and influences it to look great. So we will put the side sections into the unit; they just fit one way so you can't put the side on the wrong side. I will put this on the radio and now we are very brave to hold the unit to the radio itself.

We have the pack on the radio and it is prepared to go. We have our wiring bridle totally set up together so we're prepared to go out to the truck to put the radio and the tackle and stuff in the truck. One thing I might want to specify is this is a twofold noise radio significance the radio's around four inches tall. It takes up this whole opening in this establishment pack. Only one out of every odd radio is that size; a few radios are a solitary noise or two inches or a large portion of that tallness, for example, this radio here. So I conveyed this out just to kind of get a visual on the single clamor with a pocket versus a twofold clamor radio.

Step #4: Run embellishment links

So we have our radio in the truck essentially prepared to go in, yet we have a couple different things to do first. For instance, this radio has a USB contribution on the back of it and it accompanies this decent USB link that we will connect to the back of the radio and course it out to where we can achieve it. Furthermore, we've additionally got a Bluetooth amplifier to introduce. The receiver, we'll most likely put it up here on the visor so it gets the guest's or the driver's voice truly well, and we'll course the link down and into the dash and into the back of the radio where it connects to appropriate here.

So we require a place to put the USB link where the driver can achieve it effectively when he gets in and we found the ideal place in this truck. There's a decent little stockpiling pocket appropriate here and it additionally happens to give us quite simple access to steering it up to inspire it to connect to the back of the radio. We will take the attachment and we're going to simply course it directly down through here. Haul it up ideal out of the radio depression, and we will haul sufficiently out just to have some slack to connect it to the back of the radio and whatever remains of this link. We can simply kind of overlay it up, abandon it appropriate in here with the goal that driver can convey it out when he needs to connect his telephone to.

Okay, so we will put the Bluetooth receiver up here on the visor, fits pleasant and cozy. What's more, we can point the Bluetooth receiver comfortable driver's face - truly gets the voice anticipated out of there truly well so you get a decent direct voice pickup on the amplifier. This pleasant, thin link can be steered up behind the main event here. Simply tuck it in there so it doesn't drop out and it remains decent and covered up. We have receiver link directed straight up in here staying away from all the vital stuff like the guiding linkage, and our last tiny bit, we're recently going to run it through this little opening and into the radio cavity.

We ran the USB link, we ran the Bluetooth mouthpiece, and we have the radio's saddle great to go in the dash there. With most beneficiaries, that would be all we would need to do, however this is a video recipient, which implies it needs an association with the stopping brake so the video beneficiary knows when not to play video. That stopping brake association is down here, only a little switch, and we took advantage of it. Practically, we're prepared to begin connecting this thing to.

Step #5: Connect and introduce the new stereo

We're prepared to interface the radio, and slide it into the dash, and ensure everything works. So we'll begin with the directing wheel control interface in that spot - that was truly simple. Next, we will do our Bluetooth receiver which connects to appropriate beside that. We should go the USB link that we ran before, we can connect that to the USB link contribution here. Got our radio saddle, the radio side of that association goes directly into the back of the radio. What's more, to wrap things up, we have our reception apparatus association, which is our most limited wire. What's more, the recieving wire connector is ideal here on this side of the radio which, is great in light of the fact that again that link is somewhat short.

We can simply ahead and secure the radio into the dash - resembles a really solid match with our establishment pack. The manufacturing plant botch gaps line pleasantly, and we can simply ahead and utilize the production line fastens to hold it put.

Step #6: Reassemble the dash

So we have our radio in, we have everything associated and now it's an ideal opportunity to put our dash board back on. Also, oh goodness, this is the reason we did the crisis brake, coincidentally, on the grounds that occasionally you must place it in apparatus to clear space to put your dash board back on. Furthermore, you must curve it without flaw to get it in there. There we go. What's more, now we can simply ahead and make every one of these associations and attach it and test it out.

Okay, this is our last connector thus now we can proceed and reconnect the battery and test it to ensure it's all working.

Got out battery associated and we can simply ahead and test it out. Put the key in the extra position. OK how about we check whether it sets with my telephone. Sounds quite great, however that could be on account of it's the band, it's Ice House Road. On the off chance that you haven't known about them, it's on Spotify. You can't hear it at this piece of the melody, yet they have an extraordinary drummer. Here, how about we attempt another melody – correct, there's the drummer.

[dangerouscrusadefire-blog]

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Car insurance question?

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Where can I find a list of all the property insurance companies that offer insurance on rental property in texas?

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And have a 08 or 09 Honda Civic brand new(going to be buying a car) And going to college(since I hear most insurance Companies discount kids under 20 who are going to college) Is it really expensive? Also I hear its lower then before since economy is down.

Which car insurance company will accept me; I have a few traffic citations on my record?

Since 2006, I have gotten 3 speeding tickets on my record, and 1 citation for getting into a turning lane too early (3-pointer). I got a speeding ticket in march 2006, february 2007, and december 2008. I got the last turning lane citation just a few weeks ago. I am going to court for both recent citations (from December 08 and a few weeks ago) pretty soon. I will use a no lo contendre to reduce the points on one, and ask to do community service or take a class to reduce the points on the other. I understand that most car insurance companies look at both POINTS and OFFENSES. I am with Liberty Mutual right now under my parent's family plan and since 2006, NONE of my tickets have affected our insurance. I want to take precautions and see who can quote me for having a poor driving record as I mentioned above. This year just might be the year Liberty Mutual will review my record and then, BOOM...rates are sky high. I want to responsible about what I did and get on my own plan soon. What I did was irresponsible and stupid and I am DONE making mistakes on the road. I'm 22, female, a student with a 3.47 GPA (Dean's list), trying to finish my bachelors at a university, and share rent with my brother for an apartment. I work part-time and go to school full-time. Which companies would accept me? I've got a poor driving record, but a good 'student' record--if that even matters. Please help. Otherwise, I will have to wait till some violations clear in 10 years or so. Either way, I would really appreciate if someone could tell me what my options are. I will be out of school by summer 2010 (next year) and will need to get on my own plan by then.""

Registering a salvage motorcycle in california?

Owner has salvage title, completely fixed and the tags are expired. If i bring it to the dmv, will it need to be reinspected by the chp? Or will it go off like any other title switch and registration? Ive searched the dmv website but had no luck finding what I was looking for. If anyone has any experience id love to hear it. Thank you very much.""

Cheapest tuner platform to insure?

I am a 16 year old male looking to buy his first car. I know im in the situation to get the highest insurance already, but im still looking for a tuner. I have about 4 grand to spend so ive been looking at civic vtecs, 240sx's, vw's and many others. I was wondering how much some tuners cost in insurance for my age and sex, and also any other cars that are cheap to insure, but i can get a lot of horsepower out of. Thank you!""

Leaving for several month. what about car insurance?

I'm leaving USA for about 4 months. What should I do with my car insurance? I don't really wanna pay for insurance because I won't be in the USA. What should I do? need a good advice

Where can I find the best and affordable health insurance?

employer does not provide health insurance anymore. where can i find the best affordable health insurance that i pay for myself? thanks

My husband and I are buying our first home. What insurance will we need?

Life insurance to cover the mortgage? Illness or unemployment cover? Please help!

HOW MUCH IS CAR INSURANCE?

ok well i am 18 years old and i am going to buy a 1969 camaro ss, 1970 chevelle or a 1970 roadrunner hemi i need to know how much the insurace on this would be a year.""

How to get a cheap car insurance for young driver?

I have a son who is a teenager. I have a car who I was sharing it with my son but now he bought his own car. He ask me to get a caheper insurance that he can affored but Ive been looking but all of them seem to be above what he is willing to pay, I could help him pay but even its not enough. It there any insurace that cover for cheap or what should I do?""

How i can get insurance on my brothers car?

How i can get insurance on my brothers car?

How much for a 17 year olds car insurance with a sports car?

Hi im 17 and im wondering about how much more would it cost if i went from a sedan to a sports car?

What is the legal cost of a ticket for not having any car insurance in the state of ala?

What is the legal cost of a ticket for not having any car insurance in the state of ala?

Vehicle usage and auto insurance rates?

i just noticed on my insurance policy it states one of our vehicles is used for work/school. it should say pleasure use, will that change the rate at all?""

maryland employment insurance

maryland employment insurance

Auto insurance company wants to check my credit and past infractions.?

My auto insurance company (which i've been using for 6 months now) wants to check my credit history and past infractions in order to benefit from new lower rates i have good credit, but a couple of speeding tickets, could this actually increase my rate?""

Will this cover my insurance too...?

hi i have a full coverage on my car that also has rental coverage... now, my friend rented a car with insurance...i was not a registered driver of that car.... but then if i drive it and gets into accident,will my personal car insurance still covers it?""

How to make car insurance as cheap possible?

i don't even wanna pay it but if i can get a reasonable price i will pay it. its just ridicoulus how much it costs ( i got no spell check by the way)

""Now that my license has no points on it, can the car insurance cost be reduced?""

I am with Tesco Insurance, my license did have points on it when I got my car insured but no that I have lost the points, do I have to wait out the 12month contract or is there the possibility that it can be reduced? I am guessing I have to wait it out. Something like that must have been mentioned in the T&A.""

Is affordable health insurance a hand out?

I mean the way the right talks about Obamas plans you would think he is going to let the poor kick the rich out of their homes. If you work hard you should be able to have the basics in life. The rich whine that the irresponsible lazy working class is picking their pockets. I say screw the rich, nobody work for them and let them get off THEIR lazy, pampered asses. Buy from local merchants and craftsmen, close Walmart. So do you really think the working class wants hand outs and do you feel those incapable of working should starve?""

How do you get cheap classic mini insurance when your 17 and its your first car?

My friend (also 17) got his insurance for 998, i asked and he said about classic mini insurance and joining a mini club, can someone explain and help me?""

What are some affordable health insurance plans?

I am 20 years old and do not have health insurance and I need to get my wisdom teeth pulled! So i'm looking for an affordable health insurance.I've already applied for Medicaid and was denied.I need help please!

Poll: how much do you pay for car insurance?

Poll: how much do you pay for car insurance?

Insurance company stepping over the line?

I was rear-ended last Friday. The lady who hit me was totally at fault, and admitted it to her insurance company. I have filed through my insurance company, gave them a verbal and recorded statement and my vehicle has been assessed with damages over $5000 dollars. Here's the catch....the insurance company of the lady who hit me calls me daily (leaves messages) asking me to talk and give a second recorded statement to them even though they know I have already given my insurance company one. I have talked to my insurance company about this...and they said legally I do not have to talk to them at all....I am not filing through them and that's that. Is this standard or is the other insurance company trying to be sneaky?? Thanks!""

DUI - charged but not convicted (yet) do I need to tell my insurance now or wait until conviction?

DUI - charged but not convicted (yet) do I need to tell my insurance now or wait until conviction?

How much is Audi A4 1.8t insurance?

I know there are a lot of things to take into consideration when getting insurance quotes and all but I was on craigslist and I found a nice little 2005 Audi A4 1.8t and I wanted to get an idea of insurance. I know that it is considered a luxury sedan and its foreign from Germany so those are going to make it more expensive. It puts out around 170hp and 160 trq. The car has great crash test ratings too. Seller is asking a little under $6000 and I don't know how many miles are on it yet. Other things to consider are that im only 19 so it would go under my fathers name. I know its hard to estimate what insurance would be but if anyone can come up with a good idea or if they own one themselves. Im not completely sold on the car but I just wanted a little help from the yahoo community. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I know Im not giving you a lot of info to work with.

Recommendations for car insurance (NO URLs)?

*** Don't give me links to comparison websites. SERIOUSLY, NO URLs. I'm looking for low cost, quality car insurance. Something other than USAA. Any recommendations? Here are some facts about me: Full-time student with a B average or better Car - (2000) Infiniti G 20 Never had Car Insurance Before No accidents, tickets, or traffic violations in the past My car has anti-lock breaks Thanks""

""HOW MUCH WILL INSURANCE COST ON 1997 1.2 LTR, 3 DOOR, 57000 MILE COST?

THANKS FOR ANSWERING BEFOREHAND

What is the vehicle code in california that requires automobile insurance?

What is the vehicle code in california that requires automobile insurance?

Couple questions on cars and insurance..?

Here are a list of questions i appreciate being answered.. Why would your car be stopped if your taxed and insured? Could I use my name and everything on the insurance but change a couple of details like age and stuff? Ways to make insurance cheaper? Could I use my dads insurance and use his details? WHat does a provisional licence allow me to do? This is because i have been looking into buying a Range Rover sport on a finance with my dad but the insurance has come to 17 grand!!! I am 17 with a provisional.

""Does your car insurance go down when you turn 25? If so, how much...?""

Does your car insurance go down when you turn 25? If so, how much...?""

Best motorcycle insurance coverage and cheapest in PA?

What is the cheapest motorcycle insurance i can get in Philadelphia PA? I know i could get a quote but i dont want to get a bunch of junk mail and give my personal information away. Basically, which insurance provider is the best? For the price? And also, what do you think would be my quote and what provider? Im 18 years old, with my first motorcycle, 2007 suzuki gsxr 600 (dont whine, im not wasting money on a 250cc bike) i also took the MSF safety course. (gives me about a 10% discount) ill choose the best answer if i get a good one.""

About how much do you think my car insurance will cost?

my parents just switched to liberty mutual, I have a car, a blue 99 manual chevy cavalier and I'm 18. I'm trying to figure out how much money from my job I need to save up before I get my license, because I have to pay my own insurance and I've had my permit for a year and a half because I couldn't find a job until last month. I just want a guesstimate please!""

Got in an accident with no collision on my car insurance?

I got in an accident at and intersection the other day. i was heading north ready to turn west(my left) at the intersection. the other driver was heading south with her left blinker on ready to turn east (her left). so when i saw her blinker o n i figured it was safe to take my turn now. but in the middle of my turn she decides to keep going straight rather than turning left like her blinker had indicated. therefore she hit me in my rear passenger side with her front passenger side. she did not have much damage. however my car is fairly warped up in the rear end. it may even be totaled although it is drivable. i am just waiting for the appraisal right now. when we began speaking to the cop i mentioned that she had her blinker on, but she denied this. i alerted my insurance company and they filed a claim. i heard from her insurance company and they sent me to get and appraisal. i sent the accident report to the police station the rmv and my insurance yesterday. I do have insurance but i have no collision so i am real scared that it they put me at fault for some reason that i may be in some deep water. i am almost sure the damage to my car is at least a $5,000 fix. what are the odd of them ruling it her fault? and what are the odds of them ruling it my fault? also...how do you think think my damage will be fixed or covered? any help is much appreciated! thx!""

Can I own a car and have someone else insure it?

Ok I'm 19 and currently own my own car and the pink slip is under my name but I know if I get insurance right now it will be high so I was wondering if my dad can insure it while I drive it under my name. I live in California and my dad has State Farm. Thank you.

How much would car insurance cost me?

I am a 22 year old female in Washington State, had one incident found to be not at fault, i drive a 98 Dodge Stratus""

""How much is a speeding ,no insurance,and without id ticket can cost in Augusta Georgia?""

my daughter was caught speeding,no license,no insurance,how much does the tickets total?""

How does and underage affect insurance?

A friend of mine was just charged with an underage but was accepted into the ARD program. We are wondering how this is going to affect her auto insurance policy.

Is it true that ObamaCare forces people to buy health insurance?

If not, risk going to jail and face a fine.""

How do I get car insurance if my car was stolen?

I wrecked my car recently & was given a ticket for no insurance. My car was stolen shortly after & now I'm not sure what I'm supposed to do about the ticket or getting insurance. The court date is approaching very quickly! HELP PLEASE!

maryland employment insurance

maryland employment insurance

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/good-low-cost-medical-insurance-20-year-old-female-working-hall/"

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/road-trip-car-broke-down/

Road Trip Adventure: My Car Broke Down!

With the busy summer travel season approaching, it’s the perfect time to plan out your road trip too. You may travel to another county or go across the country depending on your preference. But regardless of how long or short, your route is, it’s essential to keep up with your car’s maintenance to make your road trip a memorable adventure.

Here, you will learn everything about how you can plan and execute an unforgettable road trip. From packing to your car maintenance, this article covers it all. It also tells you what happens if you neglect these things.

So to avoid struggle, plan ahead and take all the following points into consideration. Let’s start with my adventure story!

The Technical Side

 A detailed mechanical check-over is essential even if your car is relatively new. The following are some essential measures on the technical side that you must take to avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

The following are some reminders to help you prepare a checklist before you set out on your road journey.

Engine Oil

It’s important to check the date you are due for an oil change. If it falls on the same dates as your road trip, better get it changed before time. Always check your oil levels before hitting the road. Your engine deserves more than a tank full of gunky old oil.

Consider using a synthetic oil this time – especially if you are going on a long-distance road trip. Using a reliable, synthetic oil can offer you extra thermal protection if you are driving in hot weather and keep your engine from breaking down. Schedule your car for all necessary services including tune-ups and oil changes.

Inspect Your Car for Major Repairs

Carry out this step at least 2-3 weeks before your road trip. Get the service scheduled for any major repairs or services your car needs. Do an inspection on your own or get it checked by a professional. Take ample of time to identify and fix such problems if you don’t want them to pop up when you are in the mid of your road trip.

Check Other Fluids

It’s not only the engine oil you need to care about. Other oil reservoirs need to be checked before you embark on your road trip.

The drive axle and transmission of your car have separate lubricant supplies too. See if you need to get it changed. You can take your vehicle to a service shop to get this job done.

Belts

Check the friction surface of the engine belts too. If they show signs of damage like cracks and tears or exposure of fiber cords, you might want to think about replacing them. If you have a new car, all you need to take care of is one large belt that takes care of all the accessories (alternator, power steering, A/C) and the water pump. For older cards, there are usually more than one belts, and you must ensure they are all in working condition.

The strength and fixing of the belt also matter. So check the belts and get them replaced before something goes horribly wrong.

Rubber Hoses

The typical shelf life of a rubber hose can last up to 10 years. However, when in a car, they have to deal with regular exposure to different temperatures. The higher the temperature, the more squishy rubber hoses become at a faster rate.

First and foremost, check the hoses attached to the radiator. Next comes in the heater hoses. Look for blisters or bulges, which is a clear indication of weak hose walls. Such tubes should be replaced immediately. When planning a road trip, also consider investing in a hose-patch kit just to be on the safe side.

Car Coolant

But it’s just water, no?

Well, no! Not all engine coolants are the same, and it’s better if you do not mix them. It’s best to provide your car what it is used to. Check the type already in the engine and use the same coolant. If you have an older car, it’s best to check both radiator and coolant reservoir.

If the current coolant seems like murky water or is rust-colored, get it changed.

Check Tires

One thing that really needs to be in line is your tires. Not only they should be in excellent condition but adequately inflated with the right pressure. For longer routes, never risk with old, rugged tires. They have the tendency to blow out at high speed due to the extra buildup of heat.

Assess the tires yourself and check for pressures. If you have been planning to get new tires for a while, now could be a perfect time.

Keep a Spare Tire

Never leave for a long road trip without a fully inflated spare tire. If you have a small vehicle, it could be challenging to adjust everything inside the trunk for a comfortable ride, but I am suggesting with experience – never ever compromise on carrying a spare tire.

Also, don’t forget to take the wrench, jack, and other tire-changing tools with you. For newer cars with wheel lock, keep the lock-nut adapter too.

Battery

Recharge those batteries before you hit the road. If you have an old battery, check terminals for corrosion. Also, make sure the positive and negative leads are tight. If the ignition indicates the sound of a dying battery, take immediate action.

Nothing could be worse than being stranded with a dead battery.

Test Your Car

Go for a little ride before you actually go for your road trip. Pay attention to the noises, trouble signs, and anything that doesn’t feel right. Be a little more conscious than usual as you drive. Assuming that everything is okay won’t help – trust me, it won’t!

This will be your test drive to see your car’s performance. Do you hear your wheels moaning and grinding? It could be an indication of a worn out CV joint or bad wheel bearing. Does your car squeal when you press the brakes? You might want to check out the brake pads. Can you notice the headlights flicker? It could be corroded battery or a dying alternator.

The Preparation Side

Another critical side that you really need to pay attention to is the prep. Now that your car is ready to hit the road make sure you are prepared well to avoid any uncomfortable situation. Here are some awesome hacks that will make your life easier:

Pack Smart

Assess the capacity of your car to make sure you are packing just right. Overloading your vehicle will put it under a lot of stress for a long journey. Also, think about the number of days you will be on the trip and pack accordingly. You can even check your car’s manual to learn about the load rating including both cargo and passengers.

Don’t forget that the efficiency of fuel consumption is also compromised if you overload your vehicle. If there are roof-top carriers, use it for lighter items. Putting heavy loads on the roof can make driving a challenge and handling difficult in case of an emergency.

Pack wisely and think about only the must-haves first. Make a list of items that you should not leave behind. It could include extra clothing, camps, tents, food and beverages, first aid box, a spare tire, chargers, torch, other tools and equipment, and absolutely anything you cannot afford to leave behind.

Carry all the additional stuff only if you have space available at the end.

Keep Your Tents

If you don’t want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere without a place to sneak in other than your car, make sure you have your tents or portable camps with you. A durable outfitter tent is a must-have if you are planning an overnight camping expedition as well during the road trip.

Tents are great to carry in case you wish to stop by in a remote area. It’s also a great way to save a big deal of money if you are an adventurous person and can ditch the comfort of hotels and guesthouses and prefer staying in a tent only.

Also, tents can be great if you want to stop by and take a nap in a more comfortable position before you are fresh enough to get driving again. They also come in handy if you face an emergency situation with your car and have a family with you on the trip.

Essential Tools and Equipment

From fixing the spare tire to setting up a tent and other things, you will need to carry some necessary tools and equipment with you.

It’s best to prepare a toolbox and include everything you may need during the tip. Make a list so that you don’t miss out on anything important.

Portable GPS Navigation

It’s one of the best things you can carry with you on a road trip. When you are away from home, getting lost is another primary concern. However, if you have a portable GPS navigation system, you can easily keep track of where you are going.

Not only it helps you figure out the route, but also makes it easy to find restaurants and gas stations along the way. If your GPS navigation system has traffic-enabled features, it can even warn you about alternate routes if the main road has heavy traffic. You can also use a navigator to seek emergency services near your location in case anything unfavorable happens.

Kid Prep

You need to be especially careful with your preps if you have kids with you on the road trip. In addition to keeping enough clothes and warm clothes for them, pack water, snacks, videos, games, and music to keep them engaged and comfortable during the journey.

There is a ton of advice you can get on the internet about making road trip stress free with kids. Make yourself aware and prep accordingly.

Wash Your Car

Back to your car once again! Now that you have taken care of all the technicalities of your vehicle, it’s time to thoroughly clean it and wash it to prepare it for the trip.

What Happens When You Don’t Prepare Well For a Road Trip Adventure

You get in a lot of trouble!

All of the tips I shared with you above are something I learned with experience. Failure to do enough research and not paying attention to my car before heading down for an adventurous trip has really made me suffer a lot.

Just because I use my car daily to commute to work, I assumed it’s in the perfect condition for a long 1400 miles drive on the Blues Highway. I planned to run clean through US Route 61, which connects New Orleans and Minnesota. Little did I know what awaited me on the road!

As confident as I was about the whole plan, at the most unexpected hour, my car broke down! We stopped to rest only to find out later that the batteries gave up. After multiple trials at the ignition, I realized my fault. I didn’t want to do further damage to what was already happening, so I stopped.

I was clueless. All I could do was think about the time I could hear the struggling noise of the engine in the ignition that I didn’t really pay attention to. I regretted. To make things worse, I wasn’t even carrying a tent because we were not planning to stay outdoors.

After waiting for around three hours on the road past midnight, we finally found help, and a passerby helped us by recharging our car’s battery with their own. They were even carrying the equipment required for this. I instantly made a mental note of adding that to my collection. I used my GPS navigation system to find a reliable place for auto parts and batteries as soon as we entered the city. I got the battery fixed to ensure I don’t face the same problem during the rest of my journey.

Final Word

It was a bad experience – stranded in the middle of nowhere with my family and of course, with a limited supply of necessary items. After that adventurous trip was over, I sat down and made a list of everything one should consider before planning a road ride. And I wanted all my readers to learn from the mistake I made so their trip is smooth and as adventurous as they would like without any unpleasant surprises.

[jonathanbelloblog]

Unabashedly Silly, Sensationally Fast: 2019 Lamborghini Urus Prototype Drive

NARDO, Italy — The visit to the famed Nardo test track is marked red in the diary inside our heads. We’re here for our first taste of Lamborghini’s new high-flyer, to find out if it has what it takes to rocket straight to the top of the high-performance SUV charts. So come join us for some hot laps in a prototype of the all-new 2019 Lamborghini Urus, which turns the laws of physics upside down while keeping all four wheels firmly on the ground.

Wrapped in annoying swirl-foil botox camouflage, the general proportions of the Urus nonetheless eventually form a whole at third sight, though its details blur beneath the false cheeks and fake eyebrows. By 8 a.m. sharp, the three Urus prototypes and drivers have gathered here at Nardo, which was bought by Porsche in 2012. Early morning will be spent on the handling course, followed by a wild off-road loop surfaced with gravel and sand. After lunch, the team departs for the skidpad, nudging cones and putting the launch control to the test.

A Lambo must look, feel, and sound like a Lambo, even if it is the belated successor to the brick-shaped LM002 pseudo-pickup that could be had with a gun rack and falcon cage. In order for it to fly underneath the wind tunnel radar, the Urus has been draped in more drag-cutting and downforce-increasing addenda than a NASCAR racer. But instead of opting for active aerodynamics, the R & D team under Lamborghini chief engineer Maurizio Reggiani saved weight by fitting a battery of spoilers, splitters, and diffusers in fixed positions—an attack stance that also reduces rear visibility to a narrow observation slit.

The starting procedure is business as usual for a Lamborghini. Lift the red cage door, hit the growler button, lock the transmission in manual, and wait for the vehicle in front to take off. The first lap is provocatively slow. Everyone warms up the tires, the engine, and their self-confidence. Then the flag drops and it’s push-push-push. But not too much, too soon. After all, impatience is instantly penalized by soaring front tire temperatures, which provoke early understeer and frustration. So it’s wait-wait-wait until way past the apex before you can give it stick again, and there’s a lot of that. Namely some 650 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enough punch to drift through the fast fourth-gear right-hander and barrel down the long straight, where the digital speedo briefly touches 155 mph just before the braking zone begins. Although it’s eager to rev, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 powering the Urus cuts out a nanosecond before the analog readout in the head-up display hits the rev limiter.

While its eight-speed automatic is correctly spaced, it shifts up more leisurely and smoothly than most sequential wham-bang boxes. To give the Urus a distinct Italian flair, Reggiani invented the so-called tamburo ergonomics. Tamburo means drum, and this accurately describes the shape of the two semi-circular drive mode selectors positioned on either side of the starter button. On the left, there is Anima (soul), which lets you choose from six settings labeled strada, sport, corsa, sabbia (sand), terra (gravel) and neve (snow). To the right, the drum named Ego invites you to personalize the driveline, steering response, and suspension setting. It’s a neat arrangement, offbeat yet logical, a welcome complement to the notoriously smudged touchscreen.

The dashboard is a busy blend of trademark hexagonal air vents, the usual overkill carbon-fiber and leather treatment, and loud instrument graphics that glow pachinko red in Corsa mode. The remaining switchgear is arranged in a pattern similar to the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, with which the Urus shares some componentry—and most importantly, its MLB evo architecture, developed by its Volkswagen Group overlords.

The most obvious difference between the Lamborghini and its German siblings is the extended wheelbase it shares with the Bentayga. But while Bentley’s goal was to create more cabin space, the Italians used the extra inches to further enhance directional stability at speed, be it on a long straight or through fast sweepers. Despite the sloping coupe-like roof made of carbon-fiber at extra cost, there are oodles of head- and legroom in the Urus, though its standard front seats lack support in just about every direction.

Time for the first rotation: Three hot laps, one cooldown lap, back to the pits, change of cars, go for it. The tires need deflating three times. Regular adjustments are also advised to hone the driving style, define braking points, find the quickest line through corners, and trigger spot-on up- and downshifts. Since the Urus weighs more than 4,400 pounds, you’re better off in a taller gear more often than not. Why? Because every gear change costs time, and because riding the crest of the Urus’ mighty torque wave maintains the flow. Late braking is okay, but brake much too late and the car in front will rip open a depressing gap. One ill-timed mid-corner upshift invariably dents the flight path; one missed apex is all it takes to make it run ludicrously wide. But despite its intentions and dimensions, there is no doubt about it: this Lamborghini is a high-roof sports car with four doors and four seats. A look at the official Nardo lap times proves the point: on the handling circuit the Urus is every bit as fast as the Huracán.

This remarkable achievement required plenty of extra work by Reggiani’s team, especially in the chassis department. The Urus’ all-wheel drive system utilizes a Torsen center differential, enabling a wide front-to-rear torque split range, and a mechanical rear diff lock for a subtle left-right distribution. In other words, there is no brake-induced torque vectoring and no conventional self-locking center diff. Part of the package is a 48-volt system which powers the fully adjustable sway bars along with the air conditioning. Another item included in the list price that reportedly starts somewhere south of $200,000 are huge, 17-inch carbon-ceramic brake discs. Completing the high-tech DNA is an adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. At this point, Urus customers have no choice in terms of engine or equipment pack, but there is a plug-in hybrid V-6 in the works for China and possibly the rest of the world later. We also expect a lighter Performante version rated at 700-plus horsepower.

Discover the #Urus Corsa driving mode: true #Lamborghini racetrack performance, for the world’s first Super SUV. https://t.co/jDqkOCxPvf #SinceWeMadeItPossible http://pic.twitter.com/ZuGWzRg6jW

— Lamborghini (@Lamborghini) November 21, 2017

Complaints? I already mentioned the seats and leisurely eight-speed autobox, and I’m going to add to the list the mildly irritating front end pitch through very fast corners, the not exactly superfast tip-in, the generous measure of brake dive and acceleration squat, the somewhat messy ergonomics, and the puerile exhaust note in Corsa mode. And its brawny twin-turbo V-8 is in no way as special as Lamborghini’s charismatic, naturally-aspirated V-10. That said the Urus has many talents, with its key assets being totally involving handling and raw, sports car-like performance all the way to the limit. Despite its genetic detriments—considerable dimensions, high center of gravity, substantial weight—the Urus hugs the road like a salamander climbing up a sheet of glass, it juggles power and torque like an orangutan brachiating between trees, its responses are as sharp as a chameleon’s tongue, and it decelerates like a serpent recoiling from an attack. In the exercise of these talents, it downs fuel at the rate of a Hummer H2 or a stretched black Escalade.

Said Hummer should do well on Nardo’s off-road setup, but it wouldn’t do as well as the Urus, and that’s a promise. After all, there are no serious climbs and descents, deep ruts, grooves or potholes. The surface is a mix of sand and sealed gravel, more high-speed turf than rugged surf. Riding shotgun with me is a former racing driver named Silvio who now oversees suspension development. Since the left-right-left labyrinth is lined on both sides with tall shrubs that block the view through corners, novices need directions. We’re still on road tires, ESC is fully active, and I’m advised to use only the bottom three gears. It’s a narrow track and the grip level is deteriorating lap by lap as sand starts piling up alongside the polished loam-and-pebble racing line. Once more through the mulberry bushes in an effort to memorize the hairpin and a couple of double-apex left-handers, then the fearless Silvio gives me the final thumbs up. “Fasta! Fasta!”

Silvio’s a quick-thinking, rapid-talking co-pilot. “Sharp left, first gear, grip improves two-thirds through the corner.” (Too timid, too slow, too rough.) “Third-gear right, slow in, fast out. Lots of grip.” (Better, but still way off the pace.) “You should deactivate ESC. It helps, trust me. This car has got talent. It will be putty in your palms,” Silvio urges. I wish—but for a change, the wish comes true. There’s more wheelspin now, a more pronounced rear bias, a more blunt invitation to kick out the tail and keep it there. Bingo! I tasted blood. I want more. I want fasta.

“First, you must develop a rhythm. The rest falls into place almost by itself,” Silvio says, which means tap-dancing on the pedals, twirling the wheel, and clicking through the ratios—up and down, down and up. I’m a hero, but also a fool who forgot that pride comes before the fall. In my case, the fall is a dramatic 180-degree slide that hits the greenery side on and rips off a strip camo in the process. “No big deal. No big deal at all,” Silvio says. If it wasn’t for the ears, my grin would go full circle.

As for how fast the Urus goes in a straight line on the skidpad’s clean tarmac, less than 3.7 seconds to 62 mph is the official word, but 3.35 seconds is what the digital in-dash readout says on location. Yes, that’s with launch control on duty, live from the grippiest piece of tarmac in the Roman Empire, and in perfect weather. If the readout is to be believed, that’s a hair quicker than the Huracán and only half a second slower than the Aventador. Maximum speed? In excess of 188 mph is the answer, which would make it the fastest SUV on earth, a mark that speaks volumes for the aerodynamic efficiency of this thunderbolt designed by Filippo Perini, who has since moved on to Italdesign. Needless to say the ground-effect body is virtually immune to axle lift at any speed except through the cones, when it’s wheel up and nose down, when the steering could be a touch more direct, when ESC should be off for improved waltz-ability.

The Urus is the answer to the question that about 3,500 customers are expected to ask annually once production ramps up following its launch next year, which would roughly double the marque’s production output — a vehicle that opens the door for Lamborghini to the most profitable segment of a booming market. It’s clear after our day at Nardo that those who can afford to buy this 650-hp SUV will be getting a splendid vehicle with rare pace and agility, one that can do things no other SUV can.

IFTTT

[jesusvasser]

Unabashedly Silly, Sensationally Fast: 2019 Lamborghini Urus Prototype Drive

NARDO, Italy — The visit to the famed Nardo test track is marked red in the diary inside our heads. We’re here for our first taste of Lamborghini’s new high-flyer, to find out if it has what it takes to rocket straight to the top of the high-performance SUV charts. So come join us for some hot laps in a prototype of the all-new 2019 Lamborghini Urus, which turns the laws of physics upside down while keeping all four wheels firmly on the ground.

Wrapped in annoying swirl-foil botox camouflage, the general proportions of the Urus nonetheless eventually form a whole at third sight, though its details blur beneath the false cheeks and fake eyebrows. By 8 a.m. sharp, the three Urus prototypes and drivers have gathered here at Nardo, which was bought by Porsche in 2012. Early morning will be spent on the handling course, followed by a wild off-road loop surfaced with gravel and sand. After lunch, the team departs for the skidpad, nudging cones and putting the launch control to the test.

A Lambo must look, feel, and sound like a Lambo, even if it is the belated successor to the brick-shaped LM002 pseudo-pickup that could be had with a gun rack and falcon cage. In order for it to fly underneath the wind tunnel radar, the Urus has been draped in more drag-cutting and downforce-increasing addenda than a NASCAR racer. But instead of opting for active aerodynamics, the R & D team under Lamborghini chief engineer Maurizio Reggiani saved weight by fitting a battery of spoilers, splitters, and diffusers in fixed positions—an attack stance that also reduces rear visibility to a narrow observation slit.

The starting procedure is business as usual for a Lamborghini. Lift the red cage door, hit the growler button, lock the transmission in manual, and wait for the vehicle in front to take off. The first lap is provocatively slow. Everyone warms up the tires, the engine, and their self-confidence. Then the flag drops and it’s push-push-push. But not too much, too soon. After all, impatience is instantly penalized by soaring front tire temperatures, which provoke early understeer and frustration. So it’s wait-wait-wait until way past the apex before you can give it stick again, and there’s a lot of that. Namely some 650 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enough punch to drift through the fast fourth-gear right-hander and barrel down the long straight, where the digital speedo briefly touches 155 mph just before the braking zone begins. Although it’s eager to rev, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 powering the Urus cuts out a nanosecond before the analog readout in the head-up display hits the rev limiter.

While its eight-speed automatic is correctly spaced, it shifts up more leisurely and smoothly than most sequential wham-bang boxes. To give the Urus a distinct Italian flair, Reggiani invented the so-called tamburo ergonomics. Tamburo means drum, and this accurately describes the shape of the two semi-circular drive mode selectors positioned on either side of the starter button. On the left, there is Anima (soul), which lets you choose from six settings labeled strada, sport, corsa, sabbia (sand), terra (gravel) and neve (snow). To the right, the drum named Ego invites you to personalize the driveline, steering response, and suspension setting. It’s a neat arrangement, offbeat yet logical, a welcome complement to the notoriously smudged touchscreen.

The dashboard is a busy blend of trademark hexagonal air vents, the usual overkill carbon-fiber and leather treatment, and loud instrument graphics that glow pachinko red in Corsa mode. The remaining switchgear is arranged in a pattern similar to the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, with which the Urus shares some componentry—and most importantly, its MLB evo architecture, developed by its Volkswagen Group overlords.

The most obvious difference between the Lamborghini and its German siblings is the extended wheelbase it shares with the Bentayga. But while Bentley’s goal was to create more cabin space, the Italians used the extra inches to further enhance directional stability at speed, be it on a long straight or through fast sweepers. Despite the sloping coupe-like roof made of carbon-fiber at extra cost, there are oodles of head- and legroom in the Urus, though its standard front seats lack support in just about every direction.

Time for the first rotation: Three hot laps, one cooldown lap, back to the pits, change of cars, go for it. The tires need deflating three times. Regular adjustments are also advised to hone the driving style, define braking points, find the quickest line through corners, and trigger spot-on up- and downshifts. Since the Urus weighs more than 4,400 pounds, you’re better off in a taller gear more often than not. Why? Because every gear change costs time, and because riding the crest of the Urus’ mighty torque wave maintains the flow. Late braking is okay, but brake much too late and the car in front will rip open a depressing gap. One ill-timed mid-corner upshift invariably dents the flight path; one missed apex is all it takes to make it run ludicrously wide. But despite its intentions and dimensions, there is no doubt about it: this Lamborghini is a high-roof sports car with four doors and four seats. A look at the official Nardo lap times proves the point: on the handling circuit the Urus is every bit as fast as the Huracán.

This remarkable achievement required plenty of extra work by Reggiani’s team, especially in the chassis department. The Urus’ all-wheel drive system utilizes a Torsen center differential, enabling a wide front-to-rear torque split range, and a mechanical rear diff lock for a subtle left-right distribution. In other words, there is no brake-induced torque vectoring and no conventional self-locking center diff. Part of the package is a 48-volt system which powers the fully adjustable sway bars along with the air conditioning. Another item included in the list price that reportedly starts somewhere south of $200,000 are huge, 17-inch carbon-ceramic brake discs. Completing the high-tech DNA is an adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. At this point, Urus customers have no choice in terms of engine or equipment pack, but there is a plug-in hybrid V-6 in the works for China and possibly the rest of the world later. We also expect a lighter Performante version rated at 700-plus horsepower.

Discover the #Urus Corsa driving mode: true #Lamborghini racetrack performance, for the world’s first Super SUV. https://t.co/jDqkOCxPvf #SinceWeMadeItPossible http://pic.twitter.com/ZuGWzRg6jW

— Lamborghini (@Lamborghini) November 21, 2017

Complaints? I already mentioned the seats and leisurely eight-speed autobox, and I’m going to add to the list the mildly irritating front end pitch through very fast corners, the not exactly superfast tip-in, the generous measure of brake dive and acceleration squat, the somewhat messy ergonomics, and the puerile exhaust note in Corsa mode. And its brawny twin-turbo V-8 is in no way as special as Lamborghini’s charismatic, naturally-aspirated V-10. That said the Urus has many talents, with its key assets being totally involving handling and raw, sports car-like performance all the way to the limit. Despite its genetic detriments—considerable dimensions, high center of gravity, substantial weight—the Urus hugs the road like a salamander climbing up a sheet of glass, it juggles power and torque like an orangutan brachiating between trees, its responses are as sharp as a chameleon’s tongue, and it decelerates like a serpent recoiling from an attack. In the exercise of these talents, it downs fuel at the rate of a Hummer H2 or a stretched black Escalade.

Said Hummer should do well on Nardo’s off-road setup, but it wouldn’t do as well as the Urus, and that’s a promise. After all, there are no serious climbs and descents, deep ruts, grooves or potholes. The surface is a mix of sand and sealed gravel, more high-speed turf than rugged surf. Riding shotgun with me is a former racing driver named Silvio who now oversees suspension development. Since the left-right-left labyrinth is lined on both sides with tall shrubs that block the view through corners, novices need directions. We’re still on road tires, ESC is fully active, and I’m advised to use only the bottom three gears. It’s a narrow track and the grip level is deteriorating lap by lap as sand starts piling up alongside the polished loam-and-pebble racing line. Once more through the mulberry bushes in an effort to memorize the hairpin and a couple of double-apex left-handers, then the fearless Silvio gives me the final thumbs up. “Fasta! Fasta!”

Silvio’s a quick-thinking, rapid-talking co-pilot. “Sharp left, first gear, grip improves two-thirds through the corner.” (Too timid, too slow, too rough.) “Third-gear right, slow in, fast out. Lots of grip.” (Better, but still way off the pace.) “You should deactivate ESC. It helps, trust me. This car has got talent. It will be putty in your palms,” Silvio urges. I wish—but for a change, the wish comes true. There’s more wheelspin now, a more pronounced rear bias, a more blunt invitation to kick out the tail and keep it there. Bingo! I tasted blood. I want more. I want fasta.

“First, you must develop a rhythm. The rest falls into place almost by itself,” Silvio says, which means tap-dancing on the pedals, twirling the wheel, and clicking through the ratios—up and down, down and up. I’m a hero, but also a fool who forgot that pride comes before the fall. In my case, the fall is a dramatic 180-degree slide that hits the greenery side on and rips off a strip camo in the process. “No big deal. No big deal at all,” Silvio says. If it wasn’t for the ears, my grin would go full circle.

As for how fast the Urus goes in a straight line on the skidpad’s clean tarmac, less than 3.7 seconds to 62 mph is the official word, but 3.35 seconds is what the digital in-dash readout says on location. Yes, that’s with launch control on duty, live from the grippiest piece of tarmac in the Roman Empire, and in perfect weather. If the readout is to be believed, that’s a hair quicker than the Huracán and only half a second slower than the Aventador. Maximum speed? In excess of 188 mph is the answer, which would make it the fastest SUV on earth, a mark that speaks volumes for the aerodynamic efficiency of this thunderbolt designed by Filippo Perini, who has since moved on to Italdesign. Needless to say the ground-effect body is virtually immune to axle lift at any speed except through the cones, when it’s wheel up and nose down, when the steering could be a touch more direct, when ESC should be off for improved waltz-ability.

The Urus is the answer to the question that about 3,500 customers are expected to ask annually once production ramps up following its launch next year, which would roughly double the marque’s production output — a vehicle that opens the door for Lamborghini to the most profitable segment of a booming market. It’s clear after our day at Nardo that those who can afford to buy this 650-hp SUV will be getting a splendid vehicle with rare pace and agility, one that can do things no other SUV can.

IFTTT

[eddiejpoplar]

Unabashedly Silly, Sensationally Fast: 2019 Lamborghini Urus Prototype Drive

NARDO, Italy — The visit to the famed Nardo test track is marked red in the diary inside our heads. We’re here for our first taste of Lamborghini’s new high-flyer, to find out if it has what it takes to rocket straight to the top of the high-performance SUV charts. So come join us for some hot laps in a prototype of the all-new 2019 Lamborghini Urus, which turns the laws of physics upside down while keeping all four wheels firmly on the ground.

Wrapped in annoying swirl-foil botox camouflage, the general proportions of the Urus nonetheless eventually form a whole at third sight, though its details blur beneath the false cheeks and fake eyebrows. By 8 a.m. sharp, the three Urus prototypes and drivers have gathered here at Nardo, which was bought by Porsche in 2012. Early morning will be spent on the handling course, followed by a wild off-road loop surfaced with gravel and sand. After lunch, the team departs for the skidpad, nudging cones and putting the launch control to the test.

A Lambo must look, feel, and sound like a Lambo, even if it is the belated successor to the brick-shaped LM002 pseudo-pickup that could be had with a gun rack and falcon cage. In order for it to fly underneath the wind tunnel radar, the Urus has been draped in more drag-cutting and downforce-increasing addenda than a NASCAR racer. But instead of opting for active aerodynamics, the R & D team under Lamborghini chief engineer Maurizio Reggiani saved weight by fitting a battery of spoilers, splitters, and diffusers in fixed positions—an attack stance that also reduces rear visibility to a narrow observation slit.

The starting procedure is business as usual for a Lamborghini. Lift the red cage door, hit the growler button, lock the transmission in manual, and wait for the vehicle in front to take off. The first lap is provocatively slow. Everyone warms up the tires, the engine, and their self-confidence. Then the flag drops and it’s push-push-push. But not too much, too soon. After all, impatience is instantly penalized by soaring front tire temperatures, which provoke early understeer and frustration. So it’s wait-wait-wait until way past the apex before you can give it stick again, and there’s a lot of that. Namely some 650 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enough punch to drift through the fast fourth-gear right-hander and barrel down the long straight, where the digital speedo briefly touches 155 mph just before the braking zone begins. Although it’s eager to rev, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 powering the Urus cuts out a nanosecond before the analog readout in the head-up display hits the rev limiter.

While its eight-speed automatic is correctly spaced, it shifts up more leisurely and smoothly than most sequential wham-bang boxes. To give the Urus a distinct Italian flair, Reggiani invented the so-called tamburo ergonomics. Tamburo means drum, and this accurately describes the shape of the two semi-circular drive mode selectors positioned on either side of the starter button. On the left, there is Anima (soul), which lets you choose from six settings labeled strada, sport, corsa, sabbia (sand), terra (gravel) and neve (snow). To the right, the drum named Ego invites you to personalize the driveline, steering response, and suspension setting. It’s a neat arrangement, offbeat yet logical, a welcome complement to the notoriously smudged touchscreen.

The dashboard is a busy blend of trademark hexagonal air vents, the usual overkill carbon-fiber and leather treatment, and loud instrument graphics that glow pachinko red in Corsa mode. The remaining switchgear is arranged in a pattern similar to the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, with which the Urus shares some componentry—and most importantly, its MLB evo architecture, developed by its Volkswagen Group overlords.

The most obvious difference between the Lamborghini and its German siblings is the extended wheelbase it shares with the Bentayga. But while Bentley’s goal was to create more cabin space, the Italians used the extra inches to further enhance directional stability at speed, be it on a long straight or through fast sweepers. Despite the sloping coupe-like roof made of carbon-fiber at extra cost, there are oodles of head- and legroom in the Urus, though its standard front seats lack support in just about every direction.

Time for the first rotation: Three hot laps, one cooldown lap, back to the pits, change of cars, go for it. The tires need deflating three times. Regular adjustments are also advised to hone the driving style, define braking points, find the quickest line through corners, and trigger spot-on up- and downshifts. Since the Urus weighs more than 4,400 pounds, you’re better off in a taller gear more often than not. Why? Because every gear change costs time, and because riding the crest of the Urus’ mighty torque wave maintains the flow. Late braking is okay, but brake much too late and the car in front will rip open a depressing gap. One ill-timed mid-corner upshift invariably dents the flight path; one missed apex is all it takes to make it run ludicrously wide. But despite its intentions and dimensions, there is no doubt about it: this Lamborghini is a high-roof sports car with four doors and four seats. A look at the official Nardo lap times proves the point: on the handling circuit the Urus is every bit as fast as the Huracán.

This remarkable achievement required plenty of extra work by Reggiani’s team, especially in the chassis department. The Urus’ all-wheel drive system utilizes a Torsen center differential, enabling a wide front-to-rear torque split range, and a mechanical rear diff lock for a subtle left-right distribution. In other words, there is no brake-induced torque vectoring and no conventional self-locking center diff. Part of the package is a 48-volt system which powers the fully adjustable sway bars along with the air conditioning. Another item included in the list price that reportedly starts somewhere south of $200,000 are huge, 17-inch carbon-ceramic brake discs. Completing the high-tech DNA is an adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. At this point, Urus customers have no choice in terms of engine or equipment pack, but there is a plug-in hybrid V-6 in the works for China and possibly the rest of the world later. We also expect a lighter Performante version rated at 700-plus horsepower.

Discover the #Urus Corsa driving mode: true #Lamborghini racetrack performance, for the world’s first Super SUV. https://t.co/jDqkOCxPvf #SinceWeMadeItPossible http://pic.twitter.com/ZuGWzRg6jW

— Lamborghini (@Lamborghini) November 21, 2017

Complaints? I already mentioned the seats and leisurely eight-speed autobox, and I’m going to add to the list the mildly irritating front end pitch through very fast corners, the not exactly superfast tip-in, the generous measure of brake dive and acceleration squat, the somewhat messy ergonomics, and the puerile exhaust note in Corsa mode. And its brawny twin-turbo V-8 is in no way as special as Lamborghini’s charismatic, naturally-aspirated V-10. That said the Urus has many talents, with its key assets being totally involving handling and raw, sports car-like performance all the way to the limit. Despite its genetic detriments—considerable dimensions, high center of gravity, substantial weight—the Urus hugs the road like a salamander climbing up a sheet of glass, it juggles power and torque like an orangutan brachiating between trees, its responses are as sharp as a chameleon’s tongue, and it decelerates like a serpent recoiling from an attack. In the exercise of these talents, it downs fuel at the rate of a Hummer H2 or a stretched black Escalade.

Said Hummer should do well on Nardo’s off-road setup, but it wouldn’t do as well as the Urus, and that’s a promise. After all, there are no serious climbs and descents, deep ruts, grooves or potholes. The surface is a mix of sand and sealed gravel, more high-speed turf than rugged surf. Riding shotgun with me is a former racing driver named Silvio who now oversees suspension development. Since the left-right-left labyrinth is lined on both sides with tall shrubs that block the view through corners, novices need directions. We’re still on road tires, ESC is fully active, and I’m advised to use only the bottom three gears. It’s a narrow track and the grip level is deteriorating lap by lap as sand starts piling up alongside the polished loam-and-pebble racing line. Once more through the mulberry bushes in an effort to memorize the hairpin and a couple of double-apex left-handers, then the fearless Silvio gives me the final thumbs up. “Fasta! Fasta!”

Silvio’s a quick-thinking, rapid-talking co-pilot. “Sharp left, first gear, grip improves two-thirds through the corner.” (Too timid, too slow, too rough.) “Third-gear right, slow in, fast out. Lots of grip.” (Better, but still way off the pace.) “You should deactivate ESC. It helps, trust me. This car has got talent. It will be putty in your palms,” Silvio urges. I wish—but for a change, the wish comes true. There’s more wheelspin now, a more pronounced rear bias, a more blunt invitation to kick out the tail and keep it there. Bingo! I tasted blood. I want more. I want fasta.

“First, you must develop a rhythm. The rest falls into place almost by itself,” Silvio says, which means tap-dancing on the pedals, twirling the wheel, and clicking through the ratios—up and down, down and up. I’m a hero, but also a fool who forgot that pride comes before the fall. In my case, the fall is a dramatic 180-degree slide that hits the greenery side on and rips off a strip camo in the process. “No big deal. No big deal at all,” Silvio says. If it wasn’t for the ears, my grin would go full circle.

As for how fast the Urus goes in a straight line on the skidpad’s clean tarmac, less than 3.7 seconds to 62 mph is the official word, but 3.35 seconds is what the digital in-dash readout says on location. Yes, that’s with launch control on duty, live from the grippiest piece of tarmac in the Roman Empire, and in perfect weather. If the readout is to be believed, that’s a hair quicker than the Huracán and only half a second slower than the Aventador. Maximum speed? In excess of 188 mph is the answer, which would make it the fastest SUV on earth, a mark that speaks volumes for the aerodynamic efficiency of this thunderbolt designed by Filippo Perini, who has since moved on to Italdesign. Needless to say the ground-effect body is virtually immune to axle lift at any speed except through the cones, when it’s wheel up and nose down, when the steering could be a touch more direct, when ESC should be off for improved waltz-ability.

The Urus is the answer to the question that about 3,500 customers are expected to ask annually once production ramps up following its launch next year, which would roughly double the marque’s production output — a vehicle that opens the door for Lamborghini to the most profitable segment of a booming market. It’s clear after our day at Nardo that those who can afford to buy this 650-hp SUV will be getting a splendid vehicle with rare pace and agility, one that can do things no other SUV can.

IFTTT

[smoothshift]

First time Car Owner at 32. Where to start? via /r/cars

First time Car Owner at 32. Where to start?

Hello r/cars! I got my license in Arizona when I was 18 (good till I'm 68!) and used to drive my parent's cars or borrow siblings when I was younger, and for a glorious two years I was basically loaned my sister's "extra" Dodge Neon, but I moved to Chicago and couldn't afford to keep it, and have never actually owned a car.

Fate has put a used Chevy Cruze 2011 in my lap, but I'm not really sure of all the things I need to get in order, as most guides I've been finding are just about buying cars or comparing insurance, but there seem to be so many other details I want to be sure I'm not missing something or foolishly wasting funds:

What are all the legal steps I've got to take? Register with the Secretary of State, get city stickers for the car, get a new license plate, get car insurance...

I think I'm legally supposed to get an IL license. If I'm not turning in my AZ license (it's a good backup as it'll be valid even if my other IDs are expired!) will I have to take a new driver's test? Anyone know if it's just an exam or has a driving portion as well? Is it something I should be studying for or just the same basic crap and just a timesink at the DMV?

This car has a hole in the front-right bumper (prev owner hit a deer, just part of the bumper and parking light are ripped off, the rest looks okay and has run well since for over a year), has always had a broken trunk release button, has a small crack in the upper driver-side windshield I'm worried might start growing in the winter, and apparently had a recall for some engine light issue in 2014 that was never addressed. If I take this into a licensed Chevy dealership (just going off whatever's closest from the list recommended by GM) and just ask them to deal with all of it, how likely am I to get ripped off?

I figured I'd just get an estimate for the windshield and sit on it, see if it gets worse. Is this sensible or am I at risk for the windshield suddenly shattering or something ridiculous? *oil stick indicates it's still full, but the oil change sticker is only 2k miles away from expired. Should I assume it needs changing anyway?

I've been reading a few guides on selecting good insurance, found some quotes for around $60/month for okay coverage for me and the wife. Any particular insurance features I should be sure to get, or others to avoid (e.g., medical cost coverage, property damage coverage, uninsured accident coverage, etc)? I've been thinking about getting renter's insurance to go along with it (long overdue).

What sort of kit should I keep in the car? I've got backup batts and chargers, change for tolls, an I-Pass, a first aid kit, one of those seatbelt cutter+window breakers (came w/ the first aid kit), BC extinguisher, reflectors, water/food rations (for camping backup), battery jumpstarter, fix-a-flat.

I've been spoiled by the reverse-cam in my sister's car, are any of those "add-on" offerings actually viable or are they all junk? I imagine getting them stolen would also be a problem? Similarly have been looking at those "bluetooth buttons" for music as this card stupidly only allows bluetooth phone connections for phone, not for playing music.

everything I've ready puts this car as a fine normal choice, but I know something happens to car's value at 75k miles which it's about to hit. Should I consider trying to sell this and use the funds to buy a different used car a bit more to my preference? Or is that just opening a whole new can of worms?

Anything else I should learn now about the perils of car ownership? City driving? unexpected costs I need to budget for? great apps for parking/driving laws/etc? Any parts/safety risks on the car I should make sure to get checked, like brakes?