Month: May 2024

May 15

16 Simple Methods To Restore Cloudy Car Headlights

Car headlights can become cloudy and hazy over time because of their exposure to UV rays and environmental pollutants, reducing visibility and overall aesthetic appeal. Fortunately, several popular methods effectively clean car headlights, restoring their brightness and clarity. Here, we discuss three of the most commonly used methods for washing car headlights, followed by the steps for using each technique.

Method: Toothpaste Method

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Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a damp microfiber cloth. Choose a non-abrasive cloth that won’t scratch the headlights. Gently rub the toothpaste onto the headlight in circular motions, focusing on areas with oxidation or grime buildup.

Method: Baking Soda Paste

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This method involves applying a thick paste made from baking soda and water with a damp microfiber cloth and gently rubbing it on the area. The baking soda’s mild abrasiveness helps lift stubborn dirt and oxidation.

Method: Vinegar Solution

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Add some water to a spray bottle and mix it with vinegar. Spray the vinegar solution onto the dirty area and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen dirt and grime. Scrub the headlight gently with a soft cloth, paying attention to areas with heavy oxidation.

Step-by-Step Guide

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In the next slides, you will find detailed steps to help you apply the methods shared. Use each technique separately and check its effectiveness. If one method doesn’t give you the desired results, try another after a while.

Gather Materials

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Before starting, gather materials such as toothpaste (preferably non-gel and non-abrasive), baking soda, white vinegar, microfiber cloths, and water. Having all the necessary items on hand will streamline the process.

Preparation

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Before beginning, ensure that the car’s headlights are cool to the touch and free from any debris or loose dirt. Cleaning hot headlights can cause the cleaning solution to dry too quickly, making it challenging to achieve optimal results.

Protect Surrounding Areas

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To avoid accidental damage to the car’s paint or other surrounding surfaces, use masking tape or plastic bags to cover areas adjacent to the headlights. This precautionary measure ensures that only the headlights get cleaned, minimizing the risk of unintended scratches or marks.

Test in a Small Area

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Before applying any washing method to the entire headlight, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility and effectiveness. This step allows you to assess how the headlight material reacts to the mixture and adjust the process if needed.

Circular Motion

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When scrubbing the headlight, distribute the solution evenly, following a circular pattern to avoid streaks. This method helps lift dirt and oxidation from the surface without causing damage or abrasions.

Multiple Applications

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Depending on the level of oxidation or dirt buildup, multiple applications of the chosen method may be necessary to achieve the desired results. Repeat the steps persistently until the headlights are clear.

Patience is Key

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Cleaning headlights may require patience, especially for heavily oxidized or dirty surfaces. Allow adequate time for the washing mixture to work magic, and don’t rush the process. Taking your time ensures that the headlights are cleaned to your satisfaction and restored to their best condition.

Rinse Thoroughly

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After cleaning, rinse the headlight in clean water to remove any residue. Proper rinsing with clean water prevents streaking or cloudiness on the headlight surface, ensuring a clear and pristine finish.

Dry Completely

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Once the headlight is clean, wipe it thoroughly with a neat, soft fabric to remove excess moisture. Drying the headlight ultimately helps to avoid water spots and ensures a streak-free finish.

Apply Protective Coating

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You may choose to apply a sealant to the headlight surface after cleaning to help prevent future oxidation and maintain clarity. Various headlight restoration kits include protective coatings designed to prolong the results.

Regular Maintenance

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To keep headlights free from stains, incorporate regular maintenance into your car care routine. Periodically check the condition of the headlights and wipe them as needed to prevent the buildup of dirt and oxidation.

Professional Restoration

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Consider seeking professional restoration services for severely oxidized or damaged headlights you cannot clean effectively with DIY methods. These professionals have the expertise and specialized equipment to restore headlights to like-new condition, ensuring optimal visibility and safety while driving.

May 15

Tesla FSD Trial Convinced Just 2% Of Users To Pay For It, Credit Card Data Shows

The company’s marketing campaign might have been a dud.

Elon Musk, Tesla’s head honcho and social media poster extraordinaire, has been known to hype up the capabilities of the so-called “Full Self-Driving” feature that can be activated on certain Tesla EVs.

At one point, he said that the price of the advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) “will increase proportionately to its value,” implying that current prices will be “temporarily low.” But that hasn’t happened yet. Furthermore, the cost of FSD has actually gone down, and Tesla tried its hand at increasing the number of paying customers by offering a one-month free trial of the feature. That experiment, however, seems to have been in vain.

FSD woes

Tesla’s so-called “Full Self-Driving” driving assistance system has long been Elon Musk’s not-so-secret card in trying to convince the public to buy a Tesla EV. And while many use it regularly, others aren’t convinced that the option’s hefty purchase price is worth it.

According to YipitData, the percentage of Tesla owners who trialed the latest version of FSD on their cars and ended up paying for it was just 2%. Moomoo Technologies (yes, we know, Yipit and Moomoo) writes that out of the nearly 3,500 owners who tried the service, only about 50 trials converted into FSD purchases or subscriptions.

It’s unclear if the number of customers in this dataset represents the entire fleet of Tesla vehicles running the 12.3 version of FSD in the United States. In total, there are roughly 1.8 million Tesla users in North America, so the subset might leave out a big chunk of the owners.

Nevertheless, it provides some valuable insight into the users’ willingness to pay $8,000 for a feature that’s still considered a Level 2 system on the SAE chart, meaning the driver is still responsible for driving. Previously, FSD had a purchase price of $12,000. Meanwhile, the monthly subscription price went from $200 to $99.

The latest version of FSD, 12.3, has been touted as being the closest thing to human-like driving, but it wouldn’t be the first time Tesla’s CEO used his X account to draw people into the idea of self-driving. He also invited competing carmakers to license the tech behind FSD, but as of today, that invitation received exactly zero responses.

May 15

Car Swallowed By Sinkhole Created By Crash With Fire Hydrant And SUV

One of the downsides of driving is that there’s always a chance you could get into a wreck. Maybe you get distracted for a second and hit someone else. Maybe you do everything right, but someone else ends up hitting you. It sucks, but it happens. Phoenix, Arizona, however, recently invented a new twist on the old-fashioned car crash when, as AZFamily reports, one of the cars involved in a crash hit a fire hydrant that created a sinkhole that nearly swallowed the car.

Is The Subaru WRX The Most Fun Daily Driver For Under $30,000?

The wreck reportedly took place at about 7:30 a.m. near the Desert Sky Mall when an SUV that appears to be a Ford Expedition collided with what appears to be an Infiniti G37. It’s still not clear what caused the crash, but authorities say the impact from the Expedition caused the G37 to hit a fire hydrant, flooding the surrounding area. Unfortunately for the driver of the sedan, the water from the fire hydrant created a sort of muddy sinkhole that soon swallowed his car.

The good news is, the Infiniti driver was reportedly able to escape from the sinking car before it sank too deep to open the doors. He, along with two others, only sustained minor injuries. Unfortunately, the woman who was driving the Expedition was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

A crane has since pulled the Infiniti out of its muddy grave, so if you happen to live in the Phoenix area, you can still swing by to take a look, but don’t expect to find anything more interesting than a little mud. We’re not sure whether the Infiniti driver should go buy a lottery ticket or avoid going outside at all for a while. Maybe the latter, because if that’s not a sign you’re potentially in a “Final Destination” movie, we’re not sure what is.

May 15

The Car Wash Show™ Brian Campbell Best Booth Awards

For the last day of The Car Wash Show™ 2024, three exhibit booths will be walking away with some distinguished recognition.

The International Carwash Association (ICA) will wrap up the show with the Brian Campbell Best Booth Awards.

The awards will be given to three tiers of exhibitors:

  • Booths that are less than 999-square-feet
  • Booths that are over 1,000-square-feet
  • A “Stand Out Exhibit” booth

The ICA says an independent panel of trade show experts will pick the winning booths.

The panel will base their picks on booth display and aesthetic, product promotion and customer engagement.

ICA President Marcus Kittrell will present the awards.

A priority point will be given to each winner for future space selection at The Car Wash Show™ in 2026.

You can find out who won the 2024 Brian Campbell Best Booth Awards on ICA media platforms.

May 15

Man found shot dead inside running SUV just off I-20/59 in Bessemer; witnessess sought

A man was found shot to death inside his running vehicle just off Interstate 20/59 in Bessemer Wednesday morning.

A Bessemer police officer on patrol spotted the white Ford SUV in the middle of the road on the Alabama Adventure Parkway exit about 6 a.m., said Bessemer Det. Justin Burmeister.

The victim was pronounced dead on the scene.

Burmeister said investigators believe the shooting happened on the northbound interstate, somewhere between Interstate 459 and Alabama Adventure Parkway.

The victim is Bessemer’s fourth homicide this year. In all of Jefferson County, there have been 71 homicides including the four in Bessemer.

Police are asking that anyone who was traveling that stretch of the interstate between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. and may have seen something to call police at 205-481-4366, 425-2411 or the tip line at 205-428-3541.

May 15

Ultimate Guide to a Flawless Summer Road Trip: Top 10 Pro Tips

Prioritize Preparedness: Unlocking a Seamless Summer Road Trip Experience

Getting ready for unexpected issues on the road goes beyond basic safety; it’s about crafting a seamless, pleasurable summer journey. Embrace the classic Scouting motto “Be Prepared” and enjoy peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for anything, despite the occasional jest from friends or family.

Car Maintenance Essentials: Your Road Trip Preparation Guide

Thorough vehicle maintenance is fundamental for a flawless road trip. Below is your pre-departure checklist to ensure your vehicle is road-ready:

  • Tires: Regularly check your tires for adequate pressure, tread depth, and general wear. Rotate them as needed and verify the condition of your spare tire.
  • Brakes: Assess the condition of your brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Consider a professional inspection to ensure reliability on the road.
  • Oil and Filter: A fresh oil change can enhance your engine’s performance, especially under the high demands of a long trip.
  • Battery: Avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery by checking for corrosion and ensuring a full charge.
  • Belts and Hoses: Inspect for any signs of wear or damage. A check-up from a trusted mechanic can prevent mid-trip malfunctions.
  • Fluids: Refill all necessary fluids including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Storing extra supplies can be a lifesaver.
  • Air Conditioning: Ensure your air conditioning system is efficient for your comfort during the trip. Have it evaluated by a specialist if performance seems lacking.

Emergency Preparedness: Essential Gear for Roadside Issues

It’s best to equip your vehicle with an emergency kit before you encounter a problem. Essential items include:

  • Reliable flashlight, jumper cables, and a tire pressure gauge to address basic car troubles.
  • A comprehensive first aid kit, along with non-perishable snacks and bottled water, ensures both health and hunger needs are covered.
  • Store these items within easy reach to efficiently manage any roadside emergencies.

Vehicle Clean-up: Setting the Stage for a Pleasant Drive

Kick off your road trip with a meticulously cleaned car, both inside and out. A spotless and orderly vehicle sets a relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and enjoy every mile. An organized space also simplifies accessing necessities throughout your journey.

Route Planning: Strategizing for a Smooth Adventure

Although spontaneous trips can be exciting, a bit of preliminary planning can ward off typical road trip setbacks. Acquaint yourself with your intended route and identify key locations such as gas stations, rest stops, and attractions. A well-thought-out itinerary reduces delays and enhances your travel experience.

Bonus Tip: Essential Road Trip Playlists

Since mobile service can be unreliable, prepare a diverse playlist downloaded directly to your device. Music enriches the road trip experience, providing a soundtrack that complements the freedom of the open road.

Traveler Insights:

  • Commitment to Preparation: Investing time in preparing your car and route ensures comfort and safety, making your road trip unforgettable.
  • Staying Emergency-Ready: An emergency kit not only offers peace of mind but also prepares you for any unforeseen events during your travels.

Adhering to these tips will elevate your status to that of a seasoned road trip aficionado, equipped to fully embrace the thrills of exploring new horizons with confidence and joy.

May 15

Solon Traffic Incident: High-Speed Chase Results in SUV Collision

Unexpected Turn During Routine Traffic Stop

A standard traffic stop turned dramatic on the afternoon of May 7th on Bainbridge Road, Solon, when a Ford pickup exceeding the speed limit by 30 mph did not comply with the stop. After a brief exchange with the police officer, the driver sped off, initiating a high-speed chase.

Sequence of Events: Collision and Evasion

In an attempt to flee, the driver of the pickup struck a Lexus SUV, causing immediate concern for the occupants. Despite the collision, the pursuit continued as the driver veered onto S.O.M. Center Road and then westward on US 422. The chase concluded when the pickup managed to lose the pursuing officers near the I-271 split.

Consequences and Non-Injuries

Authorities later identified the pickup driver as a 50-year-old man from Maple Heights, who now faces charges of fleeing and eluding, classified as a third-degree felony. Remarkably, the elderly couple inside the Lexus was not injured during this harrowing ordeal.

Broader Implications and Safety Insights

Risk Awareness: High-speed pursuits present grave risks to all individuals involved, including the suspect, bystanders, and law enforcement officers. Such incidents underscore the critical need for adhering to law enforcement during traffic stops to avert possible calamities.

Importance of Compliance: Understanding the grave implications of evading police is essential for all drivers. Complying with law enforcement can drastically reduce the likelihood of dangerous confrontations and protect public safety.

Enhancing Community Safety: This incident serves as a potent reminder of the inherent unpredictability associated with road travel and the collective responsibility to foster road safety. Educating the community about the risks associated with high-speed chases can play a crucial role in preventing future incidents.

Adopting proactive safety measures and understanding the legal consequences of such actions are vital steps towards ensuring safer interactions on the road and preventing the escalation of routine traffic stops into perilous chases.

May 15

Analyzing the 2024 Nissan Armada’s Unprecedented Below-Invoice Sales Strategy

Unpacking the 2024 Nissan Armada’s Market Strategy

The 2024 Nissan Armada is currently being offered at prices below its invoice cost, presenting a unique opportunity for potential buyers. This pricing strategy raises questions: Is it simply an excellent deal, or are there underlying concerns buyers should be aware of? The Armada’s aggressive discounting comes as vehicle prices across the industry are reaching all-time highs, providing a rare financial break for consumers.

Factors Driving the Armada’s Below-Invoice Pricing

The main reason the 2024 Nissan Armada is available below invoice is due to slow sales, resulting in a surplus inventory at dealerships. Dealers have been instructed by Nissan to list the vehicle at 10 to 15% under invoice price, leading to significant discounts, especially on the high-end Platinum model priced at $68,590. This strategic pricing is meant to stimulate sales and reduce the three-month-plus inventory backlog.

Challenges and Considerations for Buyers

However, this pricing strategy is not without its complications. Some dealers are concerned about having to absorb additional costs, which could potentially be offset by increasing prices on more popular models like the Nissan Frontier or Pathfinder. Additionally, the Armada faces stiff competition from more modern rivals such as the Kia Telluride and Toyota Sequoia, which may offer better fuel efficiency and newer technology. The Armada’s last major update was in 2021, and its technology, including connectivity features and fuel efficiency—13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway—might not meet the current expectations of SUV buyers. Furthermore, practicality issues such as a cramped third row and a high cargo floor could deter some potential buyers despite the attractive pricing.

The 2024 Nissan Armada driving in the city
2024 Nissan Armada | Nissan

Additional Insights for Potential Armada Buyers

Evaluating the True Value: While the discounts on the Nissan Armada might seem enticing, it is essential for buyers to consider whether the lower price compensates for the vehicle’s drawbacks, such as its outdated tech, less practical interior design, and underwhelming fuel economy.

Long-Term Considerations: Prospective buyers should weigh the initial savings against the potential longer-term costs associated with lower fuel efficiency and possible depreciation due to the vehicle’s perceived drawbacks in the market.

Market Dynamics and Buyer Leverage: The current situation also presents a negotiation advantage for buyers, who can leverage the high inventory levels and dealer urgency to sell for potentially even better deals.

By understanding these dynamics, consumers can make a more informed decision about whether the 2024 Nissan Armada’s below-invoice pricing truly represents a good value or if it’s a sign of deeper issues with the vehicle that might affect satisfaction and resale value.

May 15

Nio targets mass-market Chinese buyers with affordable Onvo brand

Nio has launched a new electric vehicle (EV) brand targeted at China’s cost-conscious middle-income consumers amid fierce competition in the world’s largest EV market.

The Shanghai-based carmaker said the L60 Onvo-branded SUV, which is equipped with an autonomous driving system, will take on Tesla’s bestselling Model Y. The carmaker enjoys an edge in production cost over its US rival.

Nio said deliveries of the new car will begin in September.

“Onvo vehicles will give family users the best experience at acceptable prices,” William Li, co-founder and CEO of Nio, said at a launch ceremony in Shanghai on Wednesday. “A balance between product experience and cost of building the vehicles will be struck.”

The entry-level version of the L60, which has a driving range of 555km, is priced at 219,900 yuan (US$30,454), 12 per cent lower than the basic edition of the Shanghai-made Model Y, which is priced at 249,900 yuan.

Tesla sold 456,394 units of the Model Y in mainland China last year, an increase of 44.8 per cent from 2022. It outsold all other SUVs, including its petrol-powered rivals, in the world’s biggest car market.

Nio said the new brand, known as Ledao in Chinese, is built for mainstream Chinese consumers with the aim of creating an enjoyable driving experience for families.

Currently, all cars under Nio’s namesake brand are priced at more than 300,000 yuan on the mainland. Nio-branded cars compete against the likes of BMW’s X5 and Audi’s Q7.

Unlike other EV makers that have been adjusting prices to bolster deliveries in the highly competitive market, Nio has avoided discounts, which Li said was a deliberate tactic to maintain its brand value.

Nio handed 15,620 vehicles to mainland customers in April, an increase of 134.6 per cent from a year earlier.

In the first four months of this year, the company sold 45,673 vehicles, 21.2 per cent more than a year earlier.

China’s EV sector, one of the main drivers of the economy, is expected to see sales growth of 20 per cent this year, compared with 37 per cent in 2023, according to a forecast by Fitch Ratings in November.

BYD, the world’s largest EV builder, fired the first salvo in the price war in February, slashing the prices of nearly all of its cars by 5 to 20 per cent to accelerate a transition from petrol vehicles to electric cars on the mainland.

Since then, the prices of 50 models across a range of brands have dropped by 10 per cent on average, Goldman Sachs said in a report last month.

Xpeng, another premium EV assembler in China, also plans to launch a mass-market brand to widen its customer base in a slowing market.

Models under this new brand will be fitted with autonomous driving systems and will be priced between 100,000 yuan and 150,000 yuan, He Xiaopeng, the Guangzhou-based carmaker’s co-founder and CEO, said in March.

May 15

Michigan’s Woodward Dream Cruise Ranks Among America’s Top Car Shows

Celebrating Automotive Culture in Michigan

Michigan, a pivotal hub for automotive history and innovation, plays host to the Woodward Dream Cruise, one of the premier car shows in the United States. This event not only showcases classic cars but also embodies the spirit of American automotive culture. It’s a fitting tribute that the state known for Vehicle City and the Motor City is recognized for hosting a top-tier car event.

Woodward Dream Cruise: A Gathering of Classics

The Woodward Dream Cruise, acclaimed for being the world’s largest one-day automotive event, clinched the #10 spot in USA Today’s 10 Best car shows. Annually attracting over one million spectators and more than 40,000 vintage cars, this spectacular event transforms Woodward Avenue into a vibrant parade of automotive history every third Saturday of August. This year, the event is scheduled for August 17th, promising a day filled with nostalgia and community spirit.

A Local Gem Awaits Recognition

While the Dream Cruise receives national acclaim, locals in Genesee County champion another noteworthy event: Flint’s Back to the Bricks. This beloved local show has yet to crack the top 10, but residents hope that its unique charm and significance in Vehicle City will soon gain the national recognition it deserves. Perhaps next year, this celebration of automotive heritage will join its peer on USA Today’s esteemed list, showcasing the best of Michigan’s car culture to the entire country.

Additional Insights for Car Enthusiasts

Why Michigan Car Shows Stand Out: Michigan’s car shows are more than just exhibitions; they are celebrations of the state’s rich automotive legacy. They offer a chance for enthusiasts and families alike to engage with the history and potential future of the automobile industry.

The Importance of Community in Car Culture: Events like the Woodward Dream Cruise highlight the communal aspect of car enthusiasm. They bring together people of all ages and backgrounds, united by a shared passion for classic cars and automotive innovation.

Looking Ahead: As the automotive community continues to evolve, Michigan’s car shows are poised to grow in importance, potentially introducing more interactive and technologically advanced displays alongside classic car showcases.

Michigan continues to be a pivotal location for car enthusiasts, offering a blend of historical homage and a peek into the future of automotive design.