VW future cars update: CrossBlue SUV and Cross Coupe SUV coming soon

Here is the update from the VW.ca website on the new upcoming diesel/electric hybrid vehicles. This will be a game changer. If priced correctly VW will be eating everyone's lunch as well as their desert.

CrossBlue SUV:



"Combining a TDI Clean Diesel engine with 2 electric motors to produce 305 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, while still getting a remarkable 2.7 L/100 km in electric mode.
A huge interior and three rows of flexible seating means the CrossBlue can carry everything you need, wherever you need to go."

Cross Coupe SUV:


"A TDI Clean Diesel engine, two electric motors and five distinct driving modes, all for your enjoyment. The result? 516 lb-ft of torque, 0-60 in 6.5 seconds and fuel consumption levels of just 2.7 L/100 km."

So as you can see this is pretty much the same engine and vehicle. Power comes from a 2 Liter common rail diesel engine and two brushless electric motors. The result is 305 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque with a 0-60mph (98km/h) in 6.5 seconds and a fuel consumption level of  2.7 L/100 km in electric mode.
What VW has done is cater one towards family friendly and the other towards a sporty single person. Nice job VW you got pretty much everyone on the planet who likes the looks and can afford the cost of one (undisclosed, rumored around $32,000 US). Great concept you have done a great job.
Further information on these vehicles can be found on VW.ca website at this link: http://www.vw.ca/en/models/concept-car/crossblue.html
There is also an older article from Sep. 2013 in Autoweek.com which discusses more the technical aspects of the vehicles: http://autoweek.com/article/car-reviews/volkswagen-crossblue-concept-first-drive

Winter tire tread, are they still safe to use?

As all of us know all winter tires will lose gripping power as their wear increases. Well at what tread depth level are they still safe to drive on in the winter?
Legally the answer is 2/32, but reasonably by the 4/32 the tire should be replaced.

Detailed information below is from Canadian Tire which explains winter tire tread depth the best:
6/32" -- Your tires have sufficient tread depth
5/32" -- Consider replacing your tires if wet road conditions are a concern
4/32" to 3/32" -- You should consider a tire replacement or monitor closely
2/32" (1.5mm) -- Your tires are considered legally bald and need to be replaced

Not all winter tires will wear out at the same speed, snow tires will generally last longer than models designed for icy conditions. Compound quality also plays a key role in tire durability. Most "ice tires" with the exception of Nokian's R2, the compound will only be good for the first 50% wear of the tire. After that point the special rubber compound looses it's grip, Michelin X-ice, Bridgestone Blizzack, Yokohama IG, and Toyo winter tires are just some examples. Not sure what secret compound Nokian uses in the R2 but it is throughout the entire tread life if the tire. If you are interested here is the article on those tires.
http://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/nokian-hakkapeliitta-r2-northern-comfort/

So how do you know how deep your tire tread depth is? There are several ways, here are the three most popular.
First, most newer tires produced incorporate a tire tread depth numeration system in the tire, an example below are my Nokian Hakkapeliitta5 tires. From the pictures you can see that the tread depth is 6/32 and moving towards 4/32 as they continue to wear the 6 will disappear.

Second, measuring your tires tread depth using a penny.
Canadian penny: Place a penny in the tire groove with the Queen’s crown facing down, if you can see the top of the Queen's crown you need to replace your tires.
The Canadian quarter (penny discontinued): Insert a 25¢ Canadian coin in one of the grooves with the caribou facing down. If you see the tip of its nose, it means the tread depth no longer meets 6/32 of an inch.

American penny coin: Turn the penny so that Lincoln’s head points down into the tread see if the top of his head disappears between the ribs. If it does, your tread is still above 2/32” . If you can see his entire head, it may be time to replace the tire because your tread is no longer deep enough.


Third, tire tread depth gauge, this is the most accurate way of measuring your tires tread depth.


Insert the pin of the gauge into the shallowest groove of the tread until the base of the gauge is flush with the tire, they read the scale.

Useful reading articles on tire tread depth:
http://tires.canadiantire.ca/en/info-centre/tireTreadDepth/
http://www.auto123.com/en/news/calculating-winter-tire-wear-and-preventing-premature-wear?artid=125534
http://www.continentaltire.ca/www/tires_ca_en/themes/contiacademy/tire_service_maintenance/tread_depth_en.html
http://www.bridgestonetire.com/tread-and-trend/drivers-ed/how-to-check-your-tire-tread-penny-test

Product Review: 3M Scratch Removal System

All of us have some sort of issue with scratches on our cars. If you have tried some of those liquid scratch removers with no success then try this:

The 3M scratch removal system, yes it's a little bit pricy but it really does work and well.

There are several steps and applicators involved, make sure the car is washed before starting the process.
First step is to sand the scratched area with the 3000 grit abrasive square included.
Second, add some rubbing compound from the packet to the purple compounding pad attached to your drill. Swirl the compound into the scratch with the drill running (Velcro drill bit adapter is included)
Third, using the black polishing pad with some scratch remover paste swirl it through the scratch again using your drill.
Last step is to polish the area with a soft clean rag.
Here are the results on a fairly deep scratch, tested on a 2010 Dark Grey Corolla.

95% of the scratch has completely disappeared. Although if you look really closely the deepest part of the scratch (just to the bottom of the door handle) is still slightly visible. Although that area was extremely deep. I did also try the same 3M scratch removal system on surface scratches and I was 100% satisfied, after the buffing I couldn't see the scratches, they had completely disappeared.

My first use of the 3M scratch removal system on a dark blue coloured Honda paint turned out a better result, even the deep scratches on that colour disappeared. Either way this is an excellent scratch removal system. The results will vary depending on the colour and manufacturer of the paint.

Overall I think that this is the best scratch removal system out there for the general public. I give it a 9/10 for as close to a perfect product as one can possible buy at the local automotive store. The main disadvantage is it's price between $25 and $30, it's not cheap compared to the competition.
Oh and in case anyone from 3M is reading this, a little more scratch remover product in the package would be nice.

2015 Mazda 2 revealed

A very nice improvement to the original 2 design. Nothing revolutionary as far as design is concerned, from this point the new 2 has a hint of the previous Ford Ka. Mazda is partially owned by Ford so the designed may have been influenced by previous sketches.


The 2015 Mazda2 (Demio in Japan) will go on sale globally sometime in the fourth quarter of this year according to carscoops.com
The new 2 will benefit from all the lightweight and efficient SkyActiv technologies, this includes engines, transmissions, body, and chassis.
The new 2 versus the outgoing model grows to 4,060 millimeters, it's 160 mm longer, 25 mm taller (now 1,500 mm) and most importantly it rides on a 2,570-mm wheelbase, up 80 mm. The longer wheelbase and increased headroom provides more rear seat leg space, as much as for a 6-foot-2 passenger.
Depending on the market, the 2015 Mazda2 will be offered with up to three engines at launch:
SKYACTIV-G 1.3-liter
100PS (99hp) 1.5-liter gasoline units, and the
105PS (102hp) SKYACTIV-D 1.5-liter diesel
All engines can be matched to either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

"The next Mazda2 will be offered with two 1.5L Skyactiv gas engines in Canada. The difference between the two boils down to the exhaust manifold. The base 102-hp engine uses a four-into-one system. The up-level engine earns the Skyactiv four-into-two-into-one header. Mazda did not say much horsepower this will add, but somewhere around 115 would seem fair. The header also promotes mid-range torque."
The suspension setup will be front struts and a torsion beam rear axle.
 
"The biggest changes are the increased body rigidity and the torsion beam’s mounting point. It has been raised and now sits a full 35 mm higher than the Volkswagen Polo, which is considered the best of the subcompacts at this point. The advantage is simple — the higher mounting point allows the wheel to rise and fall in a vertical plane, which kept the P185/65R16 tires and its contact patch uniform and planted. This made a big difference when the Mazda2 was pushed to the limit, as the back-end remained stable even when trailing-braking through a corner — many cars feel as though the back-end is about to step out of line under these conditions."

If you would like to read the full articles here are the links, driving.ca: http://driving.ca/mazda/mazda2/reviews/road-test/2015-mazda2-promises-to-be-a-strong-subcompact-contender
Loads of pictures at carscoops.com: http://www.carscoops.com/2014/07/new-2015-mazda2-officially-breaks-cover.html 

2015 Honda Fit starting @ $14,495, FREE 6 year warranty

2015 Honda Fit goes on sale September 15, 2014 here in Canada. According to the press release in the Montreal Metro paper today it will include for a limited time a 6 year warranty for free (instead of the 3). The extended warranty is included for FREE to purchases made up to October 31, 2014.

2015-2016 SUBARU XV changes and the "Zombie" recall

The 2015 Subaru XV is it a car is it an SUV? One thing it is - very practical. It's looks are not really my style especially the rear square-angular stop lights.



Was it does have going for it is the amazing AWD system that Subaru is well known for. Good amount of ground clearance for winter driving without the SUV flip-flop handling. (Front and rear stabilizer bars are standard with a wish-bone suspension in the rear.) As well a decent amount of cargo room with 632L and 1470L with the back seats folded.
Another bonus is the new 2.0L engine which uses a timing chain and not a timing belt as in the 2.5L engine. Those of you who have been reading by previous articles will know how much I despise the timing belt on the 2.5L engine and the cost of changing it around $1200!
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 148 hp and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque. power delivered to the Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system. The engine can be mated to a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission. Consumption with the manual will be 23//30 mpg (8.9/6.7 L/100km) and 25//33 mpg (8.2/6.0 L/100km) with the CVT transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (100km/h) rated at around 9.9 seconds for the CVT transmission.
The XV hybrid system consists of the existing 2.0L engine combined with an electric motor. The hybrid system will produce 161 hp and 193 lb-ft (262 Nm) of torque. Resulting in a consumption of  29/33 mpg (6.9/6.0 L/100km), not that great compared to other hybrid systems. The reason, most probably is the Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive which is always working.

Here are the full specifications on the XV in metric: http://www.subaru.ca/WebPage.aspx?WebSiteID=282&WebPageID=18737&Range=XV%20Crosstrek&ModelYear=2014
Here are  the full specifications on the XV in imperial: http://www.subaru.com/vehicles/xv-crosstrek/models-specs.html

Rumor has it that Subaru will be bringing a Turbo-Diesel engine to North America sometime in 2015-2016.
Link for rumor: http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/topic/144638-turbo-diesel-crosstrek-coming-to-america-in-2015/
The Turbo version of the Subaru XV is said to be starting at $28,700 US (approx. $32,995 CDN) versus the $26,400 US ($29,995 CDN) price of the Hybrid.
Link:http://previewnewcars.com/2015-subaru-crosstrek-turbo-hybrid-systems/

Recall:
Currently Subaru is recalling the XV for starting itself, this has come to be known as the "Zombie Car"
As it turns out, certain Subaru models may randomly start their own engines. The issue is confined to select models equipped with an automatic or CVT and the company's optional Audiovox remote engine starter (RES) accessory. If the RES key fob is dropped, it could "randomly transmit an engine start request without pressing the button."
"Vehicles affected include the 2010-2012 Legacy and Outback with an automatic or CVT, 2012-2013 Impreza with the CVT, and 2013 XV Crosstrek with CVT (shown), all equipped with the Audiovox RES accessory. Likewise, certain 2013 Legacy and Outbacks may have received replacement RES fobs that could be affected. All told, 47,419 vehicles are included in the recall."
Link: http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/subaru-issues-recall-over-cars-that-may-start-themselves/

Product Review -- GENERAL G-MAX AS-03 Ultra High Performance All-Season Tire

Just back from summer vacation. Drove around 1200 km on these beauties, the GENERAL G-MAX AS-03 tires. These are pictures of the tires with around 6000 km use on them.

Here is my take on these tires - they are the best all-season tires I have ever driven on. Handling, handling, handling is way above what my Bridgestone Turanza EL470 tires (on the other car currently) deliver. Ride comfort is above average for a high performance sport tire. They were also tested in heavy rain, got caught on the road from Montreal to Toronto in a heavy thunderstorm downpour. The tires sloshed through the water with ease, no hydroplaning whatsoever. The only complaint I have is the relatively higher than average noise level of the tire with the windows open. Another bonus as with most new tires is that they have a tire replacement monitor imbedded in the tread, as in the first picture. This will let you know when it's time to change them.
These tires will not be tested in the snow, here in Quebec we are required to have dedicated snow tires, which is a good thing.
Bought these tires at my local Canadian Tire store, the reason, they offer a 5 year road hazard warranty cross country for about $25 total for all four tires. If they can't fix the tire they will replace it, I highly recommended this road hazard warranty at a very low cost. At first I was a little hesitant in buying these tires because they are built in Mexico rather than Germany. (General and Gislaved tires are a division of Continental tires.) Those fears have been put to rest now, I highly recommend these tires for anyone who does not want to pay overinflated prices for Michelins. Yes they are still considered the best but they are too pricy for the performance. (No bang for the buck)

Here are some links if you would like to read more about these tires:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=General&tireModel=G-MAX+AS-03&sidewall=Blackwall&partnum=145WR7GMAS03XL&tab=Sizes

TireRack.com - Testing Value-Priced Ultra High Performance All-Season
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tests/testDisplay.jsp?ttid=173

TireRack.com Ultra High Performance All-Season Tire Survey Results
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/surveyresults/surveydisplay.jsp?type=UHPAS

In case you are interested these G-Max tires are on sale now at CanadianTire. Almost 40% lower than what I paid for them: http://tires.canadiantire.ca/en/tires/performance-tires/product/2081667P/general-tire-g-max-as-03/0072119/
Awesome buy, unfortunately there is no tire size match for my other car. At this price I would have replaced my stock Bridgestone Turanza EL 470 with these and put the Bridgestones for sale on Kijiji.

Had a set of Bridgestone Potenza tires before on another car which were really good. Not bashing Bridgestone, the Turanzas are really bad, I'm not alone, take a look.
http://www.tirerack.com/survey/SurveyComments.jsp?additionalComments=y&commentStatus=P&tireMake=Bridgestone&tireModel=Turanza+EL470&tirePageLocQty=

Cars equipped with a LANE DEPARTURE WARNING SYSTEM, involved in accidents MORE often

Shocking statistic from The US Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS): cars equipped with a lane departure warning system are involved in accidents more often than others.
IIHS web site: http://www.iihs.org/

"For the IIHS, this is quite the turnaround, as it initially believed this new technology would have the potential to save American motorists from about 7,500 collisions year over year. However, the opposite happens: Buick and Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with this technology recorded respective 4 and 5 percent increases of the number of accidents in which they were involved. The damage value was also greater than with vehicles not fitted with a lane change warning system.
Interesting detail: the Volvo vehicles the IIHS monitored via these calculations performed better than the average. The organization states that this may be due to the second automated braking system. Volvo has paired this device with, which activates in case of imminent collision.
In any case, the IIHS can’t explain the cause of this strange discovery, namely why this system produces the opposite of the desired effect. Perhaps it’s because it leads motorists to drive a little less safely? Do they forget to look in their blind spot, thinking the system plays an active role in that part of the operation?"

If you would like to read the full article on autonet.ca follow this link:http://www.autonet.ca/en/2013/10/22/lane-departure-warning-systems-cause-more-accidents-than-they-prevent

Best Performance SUMMER TIRES 2014

Even though summer tires are not as popular as before the invention of the "all-season tire" they are still the best choice for the driving enthusiast.
In the summer they will provide much better grip, handling and performance than an all-season based tire. The reason; they have a harder tire compound and place a greater priority on ride comfort and balanced wet/dry grip.
** Summer tires should NOT be used in cold temperatures or in snow/ice conditions as they will offer little or no grip.**
Here is the list of the best 2014 performance summer tires as provided by Wheels.ca website.

Best overall performance:

Michelin Pilot Super Sport
runner up -- Continental ExtremeContact DW

Best value for the budget conscious:

Hankook Ventus V12 evo K110
runner up -- Yokohama S.drive

Best for track use (and streetable)

Bridgestone Potenza RE-11A
runner up -- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08 R

Best for street use (wet/dry combined)

Falken Azenis FK453
runner up -- Hankook Ventus V12 evo2

Best for tread wear longevity

Bridgestone Potenza RE760 Sport
runner up -- Dunlop Direzza DZ102         

Other Recommendations:
Best overall performer: Michelin Pilot Super Sport
Best value for the budget conscious: BFGoodrich g-Force Sport COMP-2
Best for track use (and steerable): Michelin Pilot Sport Cup
Best for street use (wet/dry combined): Michelin Pilot Sport 3
Best for tread wear longevity: Continental ExtremeContact DW

To read the full detailed article on Wheels.ca with more information on each of these tire recommendations follow this link: http://www.wheels.ca/guides/the-best-performance-summer-tires-of-2014/

Road Rage in Russia (16.07.2014)

I do admit even I have had some sort of road rage issues in the past (and even present), but never to this extreme.
Things boiled over in Russia as soon as one of the drivers got out of the car to give the other driver a piece of his mind. Never ever get out of your car, not only for your safety but it also provokes the other driver even more.
If you get into a heated road situation be the better driver of the two just let it go, it is often hard to do but just think of the concequences.
Here is the video from Reuters 16.07.2014: http://www.reuters.com/video/2014/07/16/video-of-russian-driver-running-over-man?videoId=324246216

2015 Opel Corsa and 2015 Vauxhall Viva -- Small car GM style

Gangnam style from GM.
GM the maker of Vauxhall, Chevrolet and Opel are just three of the many brands they produce. The 2015 Opel Corsa pictured below has normally been associated with German production and quality.

Not so, it's the same Fiat-GM platform found in the Fiat 500L and it's AWD sister the Jeep Renegade. Whereas the Jeep brand which is now owned by Fiat was part of the Chrysler takeover by Fiat. Partnerships amongst auto manufacturers is nothing new, GM has had previous joint ventures with Suzuki, Daewoo (till they bought them out), Toyota and others.

If you are interested in a walk-around video of the 2015 Corsa you can visit the link to gmauthority.com; http://gmauthority.com/blog/2014/07/2015-vauxhall-corsa-design-walkaround-with-lead-designer-mark-adams-video/

The 2015 Vauxhall Viva (aka Chevy Spark, aka Daewoo) built in South Korea, thus to my previous comment on going Gangnam style.

In my opinion the Viva/Spark (Opel version will be using a different name) being the better looking of the two it may eat into the sales of the Vauxhall/Opel Corsa. Not only is it better to look at but cheaper as well albeit slightly smaller in size. The engine will likely be a 1.0L 3-cylinder GM unit, and like the Spark the Viva would be built in South Korea.
Original articles and pictures on thetruthaboutcars.com:http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2014/07/2015-opel-corsa-revealed/#more-863625
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2014/05/viva-vauxhall-british-brand-adds-spark-to-its-lineup/

2015 Toyota Supra (two concepts)

Is Toyota finally starting to build attractive looking cars once again? After a decade of ugly ducklings it looks like there is some hope for Toyota after all. We saw the new North American Corolla out this year which in my opinion was a huge improvement of the previous generation Corolla.
Now here is a look at the Ft-HS concept, which is one of the two concepts to become the new 2015 Toyota Supra.


The second possibility is the FT1 concept.


Very nice indeed. Just watch out for those speed bumps and those infamous Quebec pothole filled roads. Yes it's not only poutine fries that were famous for here in Quebec, our pothole filled roads are known around the world.
Back to the Supra.
Since everything is very hush hush with Toyota most of the information is unclear. Rumor is that the 2015 Supra will be a hybrid 3.5 liter V6 engine that makes 350 hp and 372 Nm of torque. Possibly as well there may be a 5-liter eight cylinder engine that will produce 450 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque.
The 2015 Toyota Supra is expected to be available in early 2015 and priced between $40000 and $50000 US.

Full article and pictures from 2015bestcarsreviews.com, link: http://www.2015bestcarsreviews.com/2015-toyota-supra-price-specs-concept-release-date/
Full article and picture from 2015releasedateprices.com, link: http://2015releasedateprices.com/2015-toyota-supra/
Full article and pictures from peoplelikecars.com, link: http://www.peoplelikecars.com/2015-toyota-supra-2/

Tested: Febreze Car Clip Freshner

I was fed up with those hanging scented trees, fruit, and pop up scented boxes, all of them garbage. Kept on trying different products with no success until I tried this product.

The Febreze car vent clip (linen & sky scent), each clip is designed (claimed) to last 120 days. I have been using it for around 70 days now the liquid filling inside has evaporated but the scent is still there (I will admit that we have had unusually hot weather lately, 30 C).
All you do is clip it on to your fresh air inflow vent of your car and as you drive it freshens the car. I will warn you in advance, when new it has a really strong smell, I had to place it on the passengers side inflow vent for the first 15 days but it now sits in the center. Decided to purchase this product after seeing those TV commercials with the car full off garbage and the actors all says it smells like flowers, and of course it was on sale at Costco. This four pack you see in the above picture will set you back $8.99 Canadian plus applicable taxes. At this evaporation rate the 4 pack should be good for the year.
The Febreze car clip deserves a 4.5/5 score for an almost perfect product, the only drawback was the unevenness of the scent, too strong at first, still highly recommended.

AUDI A3 e-tron (electric car) details and pricing

The Audi A3 e-tron Sportback plug-in hybrid will be released in Europe this winter starting at €37,900 (about $51,500 US). Other sources state that at the US launch prices may be much less than the $51,500 exchange rate, much closer to low $40K US. European countries tend to have higher taxes on vehicles therefore the conversion of € to $ is for comparison purposes only.
Power comes from a 1.4 liter gas engine with an electric motor producing 204 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque. The A3 e-tron will do 0-60 MPH (97 km/h) in 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 138 MPH (222 km/h). It's power is transmitted to the front wheels via an Audi DSG paddle shifted unit called the e-S tronic (a six-speed dual-clutch transmission). The A3 e-tron can travel around 30 miles (48 km) at a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h) on electric power alone using its 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery.
"To deal with the stresses of stop/start technology, the 1.4-liter engine uses coated pistons and bearings to ensure it is protected even when called into action from cold, while the electric motor is liquid cooled to protect against overheating."
The A3 e-tron should be US bound by sometime in the middle of next year after its European launch
 


Full article on Gas2.org link: http://gas2.org/2014/06/27/audi-a3-e-tron-priced-at-51500-in-europe/
Full Car&Driver article: http://www.caranddriver.com/news/audi-a3-e-tron-concept-photos-and-info-news-1
All images from Audi.com: http://www.audiusa.com/innovation/efficiency/e-tron

2016 Subaru Impreza WRX (Concept) and a personal complaint

I have always believed that Subaru has one of the best AWD systems in the automotive market, and definitely the easiest to repair. The only problem is that most of it's lineup styling was uninspiring till now. This has got to be the best looking WRX ever, that is if the production version will match that of the concept.
The other issue with Subaru (specifically in North America) is the 2.5 Liter four cylinder engine, it is still using a timing belt. Most other manufacturers have gone to a timing chain which reduces the maintenance costs in that it does not really need to be replaced. Subaru's timing belt on the 2.5L four engine must be replaced at 168,000 km. "It is a labour intensive job that also involves replacing the idler pulleys, tensioner and water pump and costs just over $1,000"
We will wait and see, it being too early at this moment for any engine information to be leaked out on the 2016 WRX.



All pictures are from AutoGuide.com, if you would like to see more here is the link: http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2014/06/2016-subaru-impreza-feature-wrx-concepts-styling.html
Reliability review for used 2010-2014 Subaru Outback 2.5L by Glen Woodcock on Autonet.ca: http://www.autonet.ca/en/2014/06/16/used-cars---2010-14-outback

Global Airbag Recall -- Honda, Nissan & Mazda

Takata Corp. which is a Tokyo-based automobile component maker is the world's leading manufacturer of airbags, seat belts, steering wheels and other auto parts.
The recall concerns the Takata Corp. airbags. the problem is that the airbag may possibly EXPLODE during a crash.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes that high humidity may be a factor for this issue, complaints were made about airbag failures in two states Puerto Rico and Florida.
No accidents have yet been reported related to the recalls, but Honda Nissan and Mazda say it's a precautionary move.
Honda Motor Co. recalled 2.03 million vehicles, including 1.02 million in North America and nearly 669,000 in Japan. Honda said they were manufactured between 2000 and 2005.
Nissan Motor Co. recalled 755,000 vehicles globally manufactured from 2001 through 2003, while Mazda Motor Corp. recalled nearly 160,000 vehicles manufactured from 2002 through 2004.
Takata said it believes some problematic inflators were supplied to BMW, Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Nissan and Toyota for vehicles sold in the United States.
If you have purchased a used vehicle, make sure that you notify your local automotive dealer (brand) and register your address with the parent company. This is to make sure that you receive any recall notices for your specific vehicle through the mail by the manufacturer.

Related articles:http://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/auto-recalls-honda-mazda-and-nissan-recall-millions-of-vehicles-over-airbag-problems-1.1881389 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/honda-nissan-mazda-recall-3-million-cars-for-airbag-problem-1.2684289
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/06/23/us-autos-takata-airbags-idUSKBN0EY0YM20140623

HYBRID or DIESEL? Which to choose? How about both

Since I started writing my blog I have been a firm believer that a hybrid power-plant for all vehicles is the future of the automotive industry. A diesel-hybrid system that is.
It is thus of no surprise that VW is leading the way with this new technology. The upcoming VW Cross-Coupe and Tiguan will feature this new VW diesel-hybrid technology, you may view it in my previous blog dated 3/13/14.
Related to that diesel-hybrid technology is this new VW achievement, a diesel-hybrid vehicle that gets 313mpg (that's 0.75L per 100km).
The XL1 which is the worlds most fuel efficient vehicle to date.

Here are it's stats:
The car uses a 0.8 litre, two cylinder TDI engine (turbo diesel) and electric motor with a 5.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It's capable of travelling on electric power alone for 31 miles (49.89 km), with the use of the hybrid system it can travel 313 miles (503 km) on a gallon (3.78L) of diesel.
XL1 has a carbon fibre reinforced plastic body to keep weight down and a low center of gravity. It can carry 4.2 cubic feet of cargo (119 Liters) in the 153 inch (389cm) long car.
VW says it will only be making 250 units of the XL 1. The price tag in Euros (get ready ..........) €110,000 ($149000 US) and it's only sold from Germany. At that price you better do enough driving to save the comparable fuel to offset that ridiculous sticker price.


If you would like to read the full article here is the link to pocketlint.com: http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/129340-vw-delivers-xl1-world-s-most-fuel-efficient-diesel-electric-hybrid-car-with-313mpg-range

Tire/Tyre Aging -- When rubber becomes dangerous

Yesterday at work I was having a discussion with three of my workmates about tires in general. The subject came up of "the lifespan of a tire", how long should you keep driving on your tires? So I decided to research exactly what the experts say.
Many of us really don't realize how dangerous these older tires we may be driving on are. So how old does a tire or tyre (depending on your country of origin) have to be to be dangerous? The majority of rubber manufacturers tend to agree on a TEN year maximum from the date of manufacturing.

Here are various picture samples, where you may find the date and the way it is printed before going into more detail.




The trick to finding the date most of the time is to look for the word DOT and follow that line along. Remember first two digits are the week of production XX out of 52, and the second two digits are the last digits of the year, such as 2007.
The tire in the last image above was manufactured on week 9 in the year 2007.

Here is picture of a tire that was used way past it's day, stay safe.

" The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and tire manufacturers are currently studying the many variables. Exposure to the elements (sun and atmospheric), regularity of use (frequent or only occasional) and the quality of care (maintaining proper inflation pressure, wheel alignment, etc.) will all influence the answer. So while tire life depends on the service conditions and the environment in which they operate, the difficult task remains how to identify all of the variables that influence a tire's calendar age and attempt to quantify their influence."
"The British Rubber Manufacturers Association (BRMA) recommended practice issued June, 2001, states "BRMA members strongly recommend that unused tyres should not be put into service if they are over six years old and that all tyres should be replaced ten years from the date of their manufacture.""
"More recently, The Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA) recommended practice issued May, 2005, states "customers are encouraged to have their vehicle tires promptly inspected after five years of use to determine if the tires can continue to be used (recommends spare tires be inspected as well). Furthermore, even when the tires look usable, it is recommended that all tires (including spare tires) that were made more than ten years ago be replaced with new tires."

Full articles on tire aging by tirerack.com, part 1 and 2:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=138
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=183
All pictures from Google images.