ThrowBack Thursday: Audi 100 C3 Review

The third generation Audi 100, launched in September 1982, had an aerodynamic look, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.30 for its smoothest base model. The increased aerodynamic efficiency resulted in better fuel economy. The design was in contrast from the boxy shape of the C2. Audi innovated flush windows on the C3, a key area for aerodynamic drag that has been adopted by virtually all manufacturers today. The aerodynamic body gave the 100 higher top speed than other cars of similar engine size. A new technology introduced in the C3 included the procon-ten safety system

Also called Hongqi Mingshi
Production: 1982 - 19991 (... Read more

Fuel Consumption - V6 or 4 Cylinder?

Do you buy the base four-cylinder, or upgrade to a V6? For most car-purchasing decisions, this is an important question to think through. And usually the trade-offs are simple: you can pay more for more power and less efficiency with the V6, or save money and gas with the four-potter. And with fuel prices staying volatile, four-cylinder engines are becoming all the more popular: for example, Hyundai’s new Sonata has been engineered to be four-cylinder only. But according to Consumer Reports, the differences between the V6 and the four-cylinder option aren’t always as clear as you might expect.
Interestingly, CR’s ... Read more

Symptoms of a bad/failing AC compressor.

The AC compressor is one of the most important, if not the most important, components of a vehicle’s air conditioning system. It is responsible for pressurizing the AC system and keeping the refrigerant flowing so that it can function properly. Because it functions in a continuous cycle on and off, it is subject to wear every time the AC is turned on. Usually, when a compressor begins to fail it will produce a few warning signs that alert the driver that it has a problem. The compressor is responsible for pressurizing and distributing the refrigerant, so if there is any problem with the compressor, the rest of the AC system will b... Read more

Signs of Automatic Transmission Problems

1. Transmission Fluid Color and Condition

Automatic transmissions use transmission fluid (or ATF) to operate the clutches and bands needed to change gears, not to mention cooling and lubricating the many parts of the transmission. But transmission fluid doesn’t last forever, which is why it’s crucial to check your car’s transmission fluid at least once a month. Checking the fluid of your transmission can tell you a lot about its condition as well as if it needs to be changed.
Dirty or burnt fluid are instances where your transmission is just begging for a fluid change. New transmission fluid is a transpare... Read more

ThrowBack Cars: Australian Toyota Corolla Seca Review.

The Corolla E90 was the sixth generation of cars sold by Toyota under the Corolla nameplate. In general, all models departed from the previous generation's boxy styling for a more contemporary look and improved aerodynamics.
In December 1988, Toyota formed a joint venture with Holden called UAAI to build and market the Toyota Corolla as the Holden Nova. This agreement paralleled two Corolla generations including both the E90 and E100 series.

Australian Market Chasis:
AE90 — Sedan, Hatchback (SE)
AE92 — Sedan, Hatchback, Seca (CS, CSX, Spirit, SE, SX)
AE93 — Hatchback, Seca (SX, GTi)
AE9... Read more

How to tell when a fuel injector needs to be replaced.

Your car can face performance problems when the fuel injector is not working properly. The fuel injector is an electronically controlled valve. The fuel pump supplies it with pressurized fuel. The symptoms of a failed fuel injector are similar whether your car has an electronic or a constant fuel injection system.

Hard Start and Rough Idle
When the car does not start on the first try and the ignition has to be turned on repeatedly to get it started, that's when you know there is a problem in a fuel injector. Another symptom is when the car stalls, hesitates or sputters on start up.

Fuel Smell and Poor G... Read more