TSI is a range of turbocharged direct injection gasoline engines produced by the German Volkswagen Group. The first TSI engine had a capacity of 1.4 liters and was first introduced in 2005 on the Golf GT Mk5. It was highly praised by experts and won the “Best New Engine” award in the prestigious “International Engine of the Year” competition. Today, models from brands such as Volkswagen, SEAT, and Škoda can be equipped with TSI engines. These engines develop high power and torque despite their relatively small capacity. They are characterized by fuel economy.

FEATURES

TSI engines have 4 cylinders with 8 or 16 valves. The engine block can be made of cast iron or aluminum. The cylinder head is always made of aluminum. The engine can be turbocharged or twin-charged. In the twin-charged version, the engine has both an exhaust turbocharger and a mechanically driven supercharger. The timing mechanism uses a chain or a belt, depending on the timing system version.

Proper tire alignment is important to prevent excessive tire and vehicle component wear. Poor tire alignment can reduce your MPG, cause wheels to work against each other, and wear tires by creating improper tread wear patterns. Here are some signs that suggest you need an alignment fix.

• Uneven wear. If one of your front or rear tires shows a very different wear pattern from its opposite, it’s more than likely time for a tire alignment.
• Pulling to the right or left. If a vehicle’s wheels are misaligned, you’ll notice the vehicle will automatically try to turn to one side or the other. If you have to fight the wheel, it’s time for an alignment so that all wheels point in the correct direction.
• Passive pull. With a minor alignment issue, the vehicle may not actively pull, but when you let the car go straight without a hand on the steering wheel, the vehicle may naturally drift in one direction or another. This is also a sign of an alignment problem.
• Vibration. Poor alignment can also cause vibrations as the wheels pull against each other. If your car shakes while driving on the road, check your alignment.
• A crooked steering wheel. Another sign of a misaligned vehicle is that the steering wheel may be crooked while the car or truck is moving straight. Keep an eye out for this telltale sign of an alignment issue.

The Benefits of Tire Alignment

Poor tire alignment can lead to many different problems in a vehicle. Here are some reasons why it’s not a good idea to continue driving without proper tire alignment from a professional workshop.

• It facilitates tire rotation. Even if you take care to rotate the tires every 7000 miles, if the car is not aligned, they can still wear out and shred in a relatively short time.
• It meets warranty requirements. If your tires come with a warranty or a “lifetime certificate,” check the fine print. It likely includes the requirement to get periodic alignments to prevent the tires from wearing incorrectly. Don’t let your warranty be voided by a lack of proper maintenance.
• It improves handling. A car with proper wheel alignment is easier to drive. When faced with road obstacles like potholes (which further disrupt alignment), you’re ahead if you have correct wheel alignment on your vehicle.
• It reduces steering column wear. Poor alignment causes wear on many car parts, not just the tires. In extreme situations, a misaligned vehicle can shake parts and cause even more deterioration. Your best bet is to get periodic alignments so that the car’s systems don’t suffer from being shaken.
• Improves fuel consumption. Like many other car issues, poor alignment can lead to lower MPG because the vehicle uses more energy to maintain its path than it should. Don’t let poor wheel alignment harm your vehicle’s overall health and limit the MPG it gets on the road.

Tire Alignment Costs

Auto cost assistance websites provide a price range for a tire alignment. This breaks down into categories:

• Front alignment. This service involves fixing the alignment of the two front tires only. Standard costs for this package range from $30 to $65, depending on the local market.
• Four-wheel alignment. This involves aligning all four wheels of the vehicle. It ranges from $50 to $95, depending on the local market.
• Additional costs. Larger vehicles may be more expensive when you want a full four-wheel alignment.

Alignment Terminology

To understand wheel alignment, we need to understand the terms used and their meanings.

Camber

Camber refers to the angle of a wheel. The measurement is calculated in degrees. Looking at the front of the vehicle, if the wheel is tilted outward, it’s positive camber. If the wheel leans toward the car, it’s negative camber. When the wheel’s camber is not true or centered, it leads to uneven tire wear that pulls the car to one side or the other. Some front-wheel-drive vehicles cannot be adjusted for camber; therefore, if the camber is off on such a car, it means a part is worn or broken in the suspension system and needs repair.

Caster

When a car’s steering wheel is turned, a pivot is turned by the front wheels. This pivot is attached to the car’s suspension system. The angle of this pivot is measured in degrees, which is called caster. If you look at your car from one of the sides and the top of the pivot is tilted toward the rear of your car, it’s positive caster. When the top of the pivot is tilted forward, it’s negative caster. When the wheels’ caster is off, the car doesn’t track properly when moving in a straight line. This can make the car’s steering too light or too heavy, making it difficult to control. Caster is generally not adjustable on front-wheel-drive cars. When caster is off on these cars, there’s a part of the suspension that needs repair.

Toe

Your vehicle’s “toe” is the distance between the front of the tire and the rear. When your tires are toed in, it means the front part of the tires is closer together than the rear part. When looking at the front tires, if your tires look like a triangle in their relationship to each other with the small end toward you, your car is toed in. If the triangle has the small end toward the rear of the vehicle, it means it’s toed out. Your tires should be equal to each other, forming a square. When tires are toed in or out, they wear out quickly. A car’s toe is adjustable on all types of cars.

Related Questions and Answers

Can poor car tire alignment cause loud tire/road noise?

It is very rare for poor car tire alignment to cause loud tire rolling noise. This would mean a very serious problem in your alignment if it reached that point. Tire alignment essentially means your tires are straight relative to each other, and for them to be twisted enough to make a loud noise against the road is a sign of a serious situation. Poor tire alignment is highlighted by drifting during driving where the car seems to pull to one side or the wheels are visibly off-center. If left unchecked, poor alignment will lead to uneven wear on your tires, and it is extremely rare for your tires to make a loud noise due to poor alignment.

What is the average price for tire alignment?

The tire alignment price you pay will vary depending on the alignment performed and the location. The recommended alignment is a four-wheel alignment, and you should ensure that’s what you’re getting, as you might be charged less for a front-wheel alignment or a thrust alignment, which only addresses the rear axle. A price of $60 to $85 is reasonable, depending on various factors. Most mechanics will start by offering a higher price than their final offer. Negotiate the price and get the best deal possible. Anyone asking for more than $90 is too expensive, and you should look elsewhere.

Do tire alignment costs vary by car type?

Tire alignment costs vary depending on the type of car you’re aligning. For example, if you were to align a Smart car, the alignment costs might be lower than if you were trying to align the latest Cadillac CTS. It’s a matter of cost and car. A truck, on the other hand, will likely cost even more to align. Especially if it’s a 4X4, because you not only need to ensure the full alignment of the front end (tie rods, upper/lower steering racks, steering assembly, etc.), you’ll also need to ensure that the drive wheels on the four rear drive wheels are functioning correctly as well. This could cost you more than you think.

Does rear tire alignment cost more or less than front tire alignment?

A rear tire alignment will tend to be less expensive than a front alignment for one reason: complexity. In a rear alignment, you’re still adjusting toe-in and toe-out, but that’s about it. You’ll need to make some minor suspension adjustments, but they can be done with a wrench. If you need to insert rear shims (spacers) to align the rear of your car, a wrench will do the job. The front end, with its toe-in/toe-out, tie rod assemblies, steering rack assemblies, and more, is more involved because one thing affects another. Thus, a front alignment will actually be the more expensive alignment.

How can you tell the difference between tire vibrations and engine vibrations?

Engine vibrations are easier to determine than tire vibrations. First, sit at a red light and look at the tachometer if your vehicle has one. If the engine refuses to stabilize and the idle level fluctuates between 800 RPM and 2600 RPM, you can be almost sure you have an engine idle issue. If you have a tire vibration, you won’t notice it until you’re at speed. Once you reach cruising speed, you’ll likely feel the steering wheel vibrate. Holding it with one hand will only confirm it. If it’s a tire vibration, it could indicate tire wear or a tire issue. It could also indicate that your crankshaft might be slightly misaligned, or it could simply be resonance with the pavement.

Are oversteer and understeer signs of poor tire alignment?

Oversteer and understeer are more likely signs of poorly maintained tires than signs of poor tire alignment. Poorly maintained tires should be addressed for safety reasons. On the other hand, misalignment manifests as cupping in the front and rear tires. If you find such cupping, shake your tires to see if there’s any play. If so, there’s a good chance the toe-in and toe-out need resetting, as do the tie rods. Once that’s done, your car is ready to roll. However, monitor your tire condition and keep them in good shape.

Some countries have difficult geographical features that make road construction impractical. Why can’t you get in a car and drive from Canada to Argentina or Chile by car even though North America and South America are connected? Well, there’s this really thick impenetrable rainforest that is prohibitively expensive. This also applies to much of western Brazil. The Amazon basin is simply too thick to cross and maintenance would be astronomical. Nepal is nestled high in the Himalayas. Would you try to build a road through those? No, thank you!

In America, we also have certain safety codes that must be met for construction to proceed and for the general public to start using the road. In other countries around the world, these safety codes are sometimes simply not at the same level, if they exist at all. Nevertheless, people continue to traverse these dangerous paths. Here are some of the scariest to find.

1. Atlantic Ocean Road (Norway)

The Atlantic Ocean Road connects many small islands off the west coast of Norway that are located at the entrances to its many fjords. Besides this distinctive bridge, drivers must watch out for the wild weather conditions of the North Atlantic. Large waves frequently crash over the bridge and onto the roadway.

2. Canning Stock Route (Australia)

To call the Canning Stock Route a road is more than an overstatement. It’s really a 1150-mile dirt path dug into western Australia. That’s about the length of the drive from New York to Kansas City. It is not maintained and is only recommended for 4×4 vehicles. There is also no water, fuel, or services along the route. Drive at your own risk!

3. Caucasus Road (Georgia)

The Tusheti region in the northwest of the country of Georgia is isolated, and the only road leading to the village of Omalo is full of switchbacks crossing the faces of the mountains. There are no guardrails, of course, and avalanches are frequent, especially in winter.

4. Zoji La Pass (India)

The Zoji La Pass is located in the western Himalayas. At an altitude of over 11,000 feet above sea level, the pass must close during the winter months as snow eventually makes the road impassable. Avalanches are also a constant concern throughout the year. A new tunnel under construction through the mountain is expected to significantly help matters.

5. Guoliang Tunnel Road (China)

A group of villagers raised funds to connect their remote village of Guoliang to the rest of China beyond the Taihang Mountains. Built mainly with hammers and chisels, it is three-quarters of a mile long and 16 feet high. It winds its way along the mountainside, in and out of tunnels with “window” cutouts, and features a few railings along the sides of the road.

(image via )

6. James Dalton Highway (Alaska)

Even some American roads are dangerously remote! You may recognize the James Dalton Highway (or Alaska Route 11) from the TV series Ice Road Truckers. The majority of the road is essentially gravel and there are few places to refuel along the way. There are no medical facilities along the route. It is also prone to dangerous winter conditions and flooding.

7. Hana Highway (Hawaii)

The Hana Road is not in bad condition. But as it is embedded in the Hawaiian mountainside, it features many twists and hairpin turns – over 600! It is also narrow with steep drop-offs into the ocean and several one-lane bridges.

8. Vitim River Bridge (Russia)

Does this look like a functional bridge to you? It’s actually an old train bridge that was decommissioned. Wooden planks were then placed on top to allow cars to use it as a bridge. However, the wood is now rotten and worn out. There are also no guardrails. In winter, it’s easy to slip on the icy surface and plunge into the ice. In summer, the tumultuous river rises up to the wooden planks so that you are barely afloat.

9. Commonwealth Avenue (Philippines)

Commonwealth Avenue is not dangerous due to poor condition or steep cliffs. It is one of the most congested roads in the world. Even though it is a vehicle road, it has a large number of pedestrians and cyclists on its 18 lanes. In fact, it has one of the highest rates of pedestrian deaths. Many estimates indicate that 7,000 people die each year along the road, often called “Killer Highway.”

10. Karnali Highway (Nepal)

The Karnali Highway provides goods and services to some of the most remote regions of the country. But heavy monsoon rains often cause landslides that make the road impassable. Only about 7.5% of the total length of the highway is actually paved with blacktop. In 2010, monsoon rains closed the road for 3 months, making 1/3 of the entire country inaccessible by land.

11. Karakoram Highway (Pakistan / China)

The Karakoram Road connecting Pakistan and China is one of the most dangerous in the world because it is also one of the highest paved roads in the world. Avalanches often destroy entire sections, and it is a narrow path to travel. Many areas have only stone mounds as guardrails. Fortunately, this bus was caught and all passengers were able to escape unharmed.

12. Kabul-Jalalabad Highway (Afghanistan)

The Kabul-Jalalabad Highway is another steep mountain pass with many hairpin turns that can make passengers nervous. Because it is narrow and in poor condition in some sections, traffic jams can often form. This is not a place you want to get stuck.

13. Killar to Pangi Road (India)

The Pangi Valley is an isolated tribal region that can often be cut off from the rest of India during the snowy winter months. This road is barely one lane and is mostly made of dirt and rocks. It was blasted into the mountainside. The steep and slippery conditions can make the 52 km journey take a long time.

14. Kolyma Road (Russia)

The Kolyma Road is often called the “Road of Bones” not because many people die on it, but because it was built by Josef Stalin’s gulag prisoners. That’s not to say it’s not dangerous. It is in such a state of disrepair that the road is actually easier to drive during the winter when it freezes (than the wet and muddy summer months). But whiteout conditions make it difficult to see what lies ahead.

15. Apache Trail Scenic Drive (Arizona)

The Apache Trail covers incredible landscapes, but you’d better keep an eye on the road. This loop is narrow and some of the guardrails don’t seem to keep you on the road. It is not recommended for large vehicles like RVs or even some SUVs.

16. Le Passage du Gois (France)

No, this road doesn’t lead directly into the ocean. At least, not at low tide, it doesn’t. When the tide rises, however, the road becomes impassable with waves splashing over the surface of the roadway. Even at low tide, things can still be dangerous with water or mud (or even other debris) covering the road.

17. Luxor-al-Hurghada Road (Egypt)

The Luxor-al-Hurghada Road crosses the Egyptian desert, which seems quite dangerous (especially if you break down or have an emergency). Head-on collisions are numerous and, as a result, deaths are higher. Egyptians also tend not to drive with their lights on, even in the dark! There are also reports of many bandits on the road.

18. Nanga Parbat Pass (Pakistan)

The ninth highest mountain in the world seems like a great place for a road, doesn’t it? In reality, it is mostly a dirt path barely wide enough for one vehicle bordering the mountainside. If someone approaches you, good luck turning around! It actually connects to the Karakoram Road which is also on this list and is dangerous in itself.

The twists and turns of Patiopoulo-Perdikaki make the steep slope easier for drivers to handle. However, blind hairpin turns are not perfect for visibility. And when the road is wet and slippery, it’s really better to stay away.

20. Cotopaxi Volcano Road (Ecuador)

The Cotopaxi Volcano Road may seem relatively safe and unchallenging, but with this active volcano nearby, the roads require constant maintenance. You see all that snow at the top of the cone? Flash floods are common in the area, which also destroy the pavement, and some sections are just gravel crossing a stream. Crossing waterways without a bridge seems super safe.

21. Sichuan-Tibet Highway (China)

The Sichuan-Tibet Road has the winding and turning mountain roads common to other dangerous roads on this list. Landslides and avalanches are also common. And please, don’t take your eyes off the road to try to enjoy the beautiful scenery. It’s just not worth the risk.

Street racing is as exciting as it is dangerous and illegal. The power to control ultra-fast and powerful cars on the road is a great way to establish your credibility among your peers. The ability to subtly flex your muscles to the law is also a tacit advantage associated with street car racing.

Street racing is an activity that dates back to the invention of cars. Although the United States has taken the reins of this exhilarating phenomenon since the early 60s, street racing has gained immense worldwide attention with the success of the Hollywood blockbuster franchise, Fast and Furious.

But unlike movies where heroes and villains show off their skills with luxury cars, you don’t need to be a millionaire to race your heart out on the streets. You can build an awesome racer with commonly found cars.

Instead of buying fast cars directly from the showroom, you can buy a medium-speed car and modify it to be as fast as you want. Tuning cars is an art that sets you apart from an average street car racer.

In this article, we look at the best street racing cars that you can tune into a speed demon.

1. Toyota Supra.

Japanese cars are pretty much the ones that tuners love to play with, and the Toyota Supra is one of them. Although Toyota is not associated with breathtaking speed, the Supra can be tuned to be a street racer for any serious racer. Let’s find out what modifications can be made to this car.

• Downpipe – With an upgraded downpipe, you get much more power. The Toyota Supra is undoubtedly a powerful car, but if you want to tune it for performance, replacing the original downpipe is a must.
• Turbochargers – After upgrading the downpipe, it only makes sense if the turbocharger is upgraded. You can choose a larger and more powerful turbocharger to extract more power from this car.
• Some work on the ECU – A tuned ECU (Engine Control Unit) will pump out much more power. In fact, some experts say that tuning the ECU on this car adds about 50 horsepower.
• Reduce extra weight – Take a good look inside and remove anything you deem unnecessary. For example, you can have the seats replaced with a much lighter aftermarket brand.
• Suspension – There are many options to upgrade the suspension of the Toyota Supra. You need to choose the one that best suits your preferences.

2. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is not the best performance car, but it is one of the most popular cars ever made by Honda. It is lightweight, reliable, and offers many tuning possibilities. You can perform the following upgrades or modifications on this car.

• Adding power – When we talk about adding power, many people might think of upgrading the engine or adding an extra turbocharger, but it’s not always about cylinder size or how much fuel it can burn.

A few extra horsepower can be added to your car by making small modifications, such as adding larger diameter exhaust pipes. A performance exhaust system will allow exhaust gases to leave the engine faster. As a result, the engine will work harder to produce more power. When the new exhaust is ready, replace the old restrictive airbox with a cold air intake, or add turbocharging or supercharging.

• Upgrade the brakes – More power and better performance mean you also need better braking power. Performance brake pads and cross-drilled rotors will provide effective braking and better cooling. You can also install a larger caliper and a bigger rotor for better and more responsive braking.

• Handling – A performance car must be able to handle corners smoothly. You can achieve this with the Honda Civic by replacing the original shock absorbers. You can add a performance shock absorber with heavier and weaker coil springs.

• Remove weight – Try to remove excess pounds from the car. Remove the carpets and replace them with lighter ones or an ultra-light spray-on lining. You can also replace the original seats with racing bucket seats. These are just a few examples. You can remove anything you deem unnecessary or that has a lighter replacement.

3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.

This car has several variants, the Lancer Evo 6, 6.5, 7, 8, and Evo 9. However, all have the same engines, although there is a slight difference in the turbine housing and camshaft.

This car can have many tunable parts. You can work on the following if you want to tune the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. When you’re done working on the upgrades, you should have at least 60 to 70 extra horsepower.

• Air intake system
• Exhaust system
• Remap the engine control unit
• Fuel pump and fuel injectors
• Intercooler piping upgrade
• Wastegate actuator
• Throttle body
• Suspension

If you have enough money, there is almost no limit to what you can do with this car, and the good thing is that you can find the parts easily.

4. Ford Mustang.

The Ford Mustang offers serious power and performance, but you can still tune it to add a few more horsepower. Tuning the Mustang will give you a better and improved throttle response, more power and torque, and believe it or not, your car will even have better fuel economy.

Here is a list of things you can do for your Mustang.

• Cold air intake upgrade
• Throttle body
• Interior improvement (reduce weight by getting rid of items inside the car)
• Exhaust system upgrade
• Camshafts
• Cylinder heads
• Superchargers or turbochargers
• Fuel injectors
• Nitrous oxide
• Remove the speed limiter

Tuning the Ford Mustang is not difficult. The parts can be found in almost every corner of the United States, and tuners love working on this car.

There are several tuning software options, such as SCT pre-configured tune, Bama performance tune, Unleashed (only for 2015 Ecoboost), and Cobb. Depending on your car model, you can choose the ideal tuning program. If you’re not sure, you can ask a tuner. They will be happy to explain.

However, if your Mustang is new, you should know that your warranty will be voided if you tune it.

5. Subaru Impreza.

In a world of fast cars, Subaru is one of the cars that demands respect and attention. The Subaru Impreza is an excellent car that has many tunable parts, and it can be tuned for a reasonable amount. This car doesn’t necessarily need to be tuned, but if you want better handling and more power, you can tune it.

Below are the tunable parts of the Subaru Impreza.

• Exhaust system
• Turbochargers
• ECU remaps
• Suspension
• Bodywork

The Subaru Impreza has a solidly designed and very reliable engine. It can tolerate tuning with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions about Car Tuning.

What are the main factors to consider in a car for street racing?

Street racing cars operate at a completely different level than those on tracks. Therefore, the requirements are also very different. Here are the main factors to look for in a car for street racing:

• A small-sized car – A relatively small car will perform better for fitting into smaller spaces and also for weaving through traffic easily.
• Low-end torque – Instant torque will give you more performance compared to higher RPM on race tracks.
• Higher seats – The higher seat position will give you better visibility all around. This will boost your confidence in your driving skills and the overall outcome of the race.
• Lightweight – Lightweight cars will perform better for you in street racing, while heavy cars can slow you down significantly.
• Strong chassis – A robust chassis is a must in a street racing car. Street racing is a tough activity, so you need a strong chassis capable of withstanding street beating.

Why are tuner cars popular in street racing?

Although luxury and supercars are built for speed, the risk of damage is very high in street racing. The cars used for street racing suffer a lot of damage, at least aesthetically.

Besides the risk of damage, car tuning is an art that has a loyal fan base. A car that is modified and bears the mark of originality will earn you admiration and respect on the street rather than flashing a super luxury car.

Is street racing illegal?

Street racing is illegal in almost every country, but so is jaywalking. You don’t see that stopping many people, do you? Nevertheless, street racing is extremely popular almost everywhere.

Currently, San Diego is the only city where street racing is legal to some extent. The city has a program at Qualcomm Stadium, where street racers participate in events in a controlled environment.

When you get into a new vehicle, you are bombarded with features you’ve probably never seen before. This is mainly because car manufacturers are developing new features left and right, to take the lead in the highly competitive automotive market.

One of the new features found in almost all new vehicles is Eco Mode.

But what is Eco Mode and how does it work? More importantly, when should you use it?

Keep reading and we’ll break down all the nuts and bolts of Eco Mode. You’ll know everything you need and more!

What is Eco Mode?

The term actually represents the vehicle’s economy mode. Simply put, Eco Mode is a function that improves your vehicle’s fuel consumption through various measures.

Once you press the Eco Mode button, it changes the car’s basic functions and allows you to travel many miles on just one gallon of gasoline.

While this helps the driver save fuel, the option comes with a trade-off in terms of performance, especially if you tend to be a more aggressive driver.

A Brief History of Eco Mode

The history of Eco Mode is more complicated than you think. This is because each manufacturer has a specific “Eco Mode,” and despite the same name, none of them work the same way.

Each manufacturer has exclusive information protecting its individual systems, but that doesn’t mean we can’t break down the basics and when automakers introduced them.

The 2006 Toyota Prius came with an Eco Mode – but it only worked when the vehicle was traveling under 34 miles per hour and didn’t do much for better fuel economy. However, over the years, the option has improved significantly.

In 2008, the Nissan Leaf hybrid introduced an Eco Mode option that improves fuel consumption by up to 10 percent. Honda introduced its first Eco Mode option in 2009, and Ford and Chevy added it to their lineup in 2012.

Today, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a manufacturer that doesn’t offer an Eco Mode option for at least some of its vehicle ranges. The effectiveness of the modes varies by manufacturer, and there’s no doubt that some brands simply offer the feature as a marketing tactic despite minimal improvements in fuel economy.

On the other hand, other vehicles, like the Honda Accord, Nissan Leaf, and new Toyota Prius, have Eco Modes that significantly improve fuel economy.

How Does Eco Mode Work?

As we mentioned earlier, each manufacturer implements Eco Mode slightly differently, and the exact science behind each brand is often proprietary. But the fundamental principles of how each system works are common knowledge and remain relatively standard across different brands.

The most common operation of Eco Mode is to limit engine performance. If you put the pedal to the metal and pin it to the floor, you’ll get a wide-open throttle, which will result in maximum fuel flow to match the additional airflow.

Eco Mode limits the fuel flow and the result is less power. But it doesn’t just do this with a wide-open throttle; it does it at all times. This means you’ll get a less responsive engine and will often notice a noticeable drop in power during acceleration.

Another option that some manufacturers pair with Eco Mode is a start-stop function. This function actually stops your engine when you’re not driving, which increases energy efficiency since you’re not burning fuel while idling.

Is Eco Mode Worth It?

If you’re looking to reduce fuel costs, the answer is almost always yes. Even if some vehicles don’t have a great Eco Mode installed, it’s usually for older models that introduced the option when the technology was just starting out.

Current vehicles can save between 5 and 10% when in Eco Mode, as the option uses less fuel and reduces maintenance costs.

In other words, if you drive your car 1,000 miles per month and your vehicle gets 30 miles per gallon without Eco Mode, you’ll use 400 gallons of fuel per year. If the average cost per gallon is $2.50, that’s $1,000 per year in fuel.

If you turn on Eco Mode, some vehicles can reduce that number to just over $900 per year – that’s $100 in savings just by clicking a button!

How Popular/Common is Eco Mode?

Although Eco Mode is relatively new, it’s quickly gaining popularity. Before 2008, only a handful of vehicles offered an Eco Mode, namely the Toyota Prius, and most of them did practically nothing. Since then, almost every car manufacturer has added a vehicle with an Eco Mode setup to their lineup.

In fact, even markets with vehicles that aren’t traditionally “green” have added vehicles with Eco Mode options to their lineups. That’s why new vehicles like the Chevy Silverado have Eco Mode configurations that you can use to improve your fuel economy with a click!

Can You Drive with Eco Mode on All the Time?

Most drivers can simply turn on Eco Mode without worrying about it. However, in some circumstances, you’ll want to make sure Eco Mode is turned off. For example, if you’re driving that Chevy Silverado with Eco Mode on while trying to haul something, you’ll find the option is a significant deterrent.

While it won’t damage your engine or transfer case as many claim, you’ll find that you don’t have the torque needed to really get moving on the road. In addition to turning off Eco Mode when carrying heavy loads, you should turn it off whenever you think you’ll need to accelerate quickly.

While this can be hard to predict, common examples include trying to merge onto busy highways and navigating rush hour city traffic. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you need to accelerate quickly to avoid an accident and not be able to do so!

Is Eco Mode Bad for Your Car?

Absolutely not! Eco Mode limits engine performance, but it does not harm your engine or cause any damage to your vehicle. In fact, since your engine isn’t working as hard, you might actually prevent your vehicle’s components from wearing out as quickly.

However, any additional longevity will likely be negligible. But while many people claim that running your vehicle in Eco Mode is hard on the transfer case and the rest of the drivetrain, that’s not the case.

Advantages of Eco Mode

Eco Mode has one major advantage: it improves your fuel economy! Even better, if you don’t want it, you can quickly turn it off with the click of a button – and as soon as you want to increase your fuel savings, you just need to click the button to turn it back on!

• Improved energy efficiency
• Quickly turned on and off

Disadvantages of Eco Mode

While you get better fuel economy with Eco Mode, you definitely lose power. And if you’re used to accelerating quickly, you’ll notice a difference. Furthermore, if you’re trying to get torque, whether towing something or struggling up a steep incline, Eco Mode won’t be worth it.

Of course, all you have to do is click a button to turn it off! You don’t have to like Eco Mode; if you don’t want to use it, don’t turn it on!

• Reduced power output
• Reduced torque to the wheels

When Should You Turn Eco Mode On?

Whenever you want to save fuel, of course! If you use your vehicle as a daily driver for commuting to and from work, chances are you can keep Eco Mode on all the time. If your vehicle has an Eco Mode option, there are only a few circumstances where you should turn it off, and even if you forget, it won’t damage your vehicle at all!

When Should You Turn Eco Mode Off?

You should turn off Eco Mode when towing or carrying heavy loads. If you’re weighing down your vehicle, you’ll want as much torque as possible at the wheels. Eco Mode limits that power and torque by design – making it a terrible choice if that’s what you’re using your vehicle for.

Summary

While Eco Mode may be new to you today, there’s no doubt that manufacturers will equip more and more vehicles in the future with something similar. Indeed, there’s almost no downside to offering a vehicle with an Eco Mode option.

By clicking a button, you can save money, and if you ever need extra power, all you have to do is turn off Eco Mode! Eco Mode vehicles are the way of the future, and you can expect them to be integrated into more and more vehicles.

Audi Car Reliability: A Closer Look

Car reliability is an essential aspect when choosing a vehicle. In the past, there have been reports indicating that Audi vehicles are not durable. However, this has changed in the recent past.

But, you need to check various aspects to make your Audi reliable.

An Overview of Audi Cars

In the recent past, there have been various new Audi models. Furthermore, they have expanded into electric cars. These advancements have improved Audi owner satisfaction.

Audi Brand Reliability

Having a more reliable vehicle that meets your needs is essential. This means you will have fewer maintenance issues with the car. Moreover, a reliable car improves your safety score, making it more convenient.

Audi is one of the most reliable brands worldwide. It ranks fourth, with an achievement of 68 out of 100 points, rating system. Additionally, it has maintained a high level for an extended period, making it a trustworthy brand.

Its high-quality technology enhances its reliability. Therefore, this brand offers you both safety and luxury.

Essential Routine Maintenance That Makes the Audi Car More Reliable

Well-maintained cars last long on the road. Moreover, they have fewer major issues. When you repair your Audi periodically, it does not cost you a lot of money.

But, the most important task for you is to maintain a routine maintenance schedule. This task, however, is often tricky for most individuals.

You should never ignore this regular maintenance schedule. It is vital, especially for parts that wear out faster.

Common Maintenance Tasks to Make Your Audi Reliable

Oil Changes

No one wants their car to break down or spend a lot of money on repairs. Therefore, you need to change the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. It is crucial for your engine.

Oil helps lubricate internal parts. As a result, it extends the lifespan of engine components. You can perform this regular oil change at home, in a garage, or at a dealership. Thus, you will make your Audi more reliable and convenient.

Brake Checks

Brakes are one of the most common wear items in a car. Therefore, you need to keep checking them more regularly. Moreover, replacing them when necessary is crucial.

You should check the brakes at least once or twice a year. However, this duration depends on how often you drive. Consequently, frequent checks enhance your safety. Additionally, it makes your Audi more reliable. You are less likely to cause an accident when the brakes are correct.

Tire Rotations

Over time, car tires also wear out. Therefore, they create dangerous driving situations. Hence, to make your Audi reliable, you need to replace them if necessary. Moreover, this action minimizes the risk of accidents.

Battery Check

Regular battery checks are essential to avoid a dead battery situation. A dead battery can cause inconvenience as your car may not start. So, to avoid this, you need to keep checking your battery’s charge.

A new battery lasts two or three years. However, you can extend this duration by recharging it. Nevertheless, you will eventually need to replace it.

Maintenance Cost

Audi cars have high-quality design and construction. But, their necessary maintenance costs to keep them running are high. However, although their spare parts are expensive, they are durable. Therefore, you rarely need to replace them.

Good vehicle maintenance extends the lifespan of a modern Audi vehicle. For example, a well-maintained Audi can serve you for about 150,000 to 200,000 miles.

Thus, Audi cars are reliable when you take good care of them. Moreover, you need to replace Audi parts promptly when they start to wear out.

Audi has fantastic performance compared to its competitors. As a result, it has always been one of the top contenders for longevity among car manufacturers.

In ten years, an average Audi can cost you about $12,400 in maintenance fees. This cost is high compared to other brands such as Honda, Ford, and Toyota. But, Audi spare parts are of high quality, making it a fair trade-off.

All vehicles are different; therefore, some may require more maintenance than the other. But, the assistance depends on the driving history and the vehicle’s age.

However, to maintain good operation, you need to perform consistent checks in your car. Excellent maintenance from the start extends your Audi’s lifespan. Moreover, you encounter fewer problems with the vehicle. Consequently, this makes it more reliable and cheaper to maintain.

Common Unexpected Audi Repair Issues

Similar to most other luxury vehicles, Audi has common maintenance issues. Although some of these are unique to Audi, it should not stop you from having one. Here are some common issues in Audi and their solutions.

Electrical Component Issues

Most Audi vehicles experience electrical component failure. For example, erratic lights, taillights, and digital dashboard display failures are common.

But, you can solve this problem by replacing the OE equipment. Moreover, Audi offers warranty coverage, so the repair and replacement cost is not very high. Excluding labor, electrical components can cost about $3 to $1,200.

Spark Plug or Ignition Failure

This failure is a common mechanical issue in Audi. Additionally, it is one of the main reasons for Audi engine misfires. But, you can solve it by installing good quality OE spark plugs. Furthermore, you need to turn off the engine according to its factory specifications.

Catalytic Converter Replacement

Clogging or carbon buildup can lead to Audi catalytic converter failure. Carbon buildup or clogging solidifies, thus blocking the exhaust flow. But, with this problem, replacing the catalytic converter is not a permanent solution.

Instead, you should find the true cause of the problem. Additionally, you need to maintain your engine regularly and keep it well-tuned. This way, you will avoid the problem and make your Audi reliable.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

EGR refers to a system that reduces temperatures in your car’s combustion chamber. Water, tears, and carbon buildup are the main issues plaguing your Audi EGR.

Therefore, you need to repair damaged parts and clean the system. You may need to replace the EGR valve if it is damaged.

Oil Leaks

Most Audi users complain about oil leaks. However, these leaks come from two places; Camshaft tension and valve cover gasket.

As a solution, you need to replace one or both parts. Therefore, you must first identify the leaking part. You might replace the wrong section, thus not solving the problem.

Oxygen Sensor Replacement

When looking to buy a vehicle, the one with the best package wins. As for Honda Fit Reliability, this means safety, fuel economy, and comfort. But there are other small benefits you might overlook with this model. Despite its size, it has a lot of interior space and excellent handling.

What’s New?

There is little change in the trim level compared to the previous 2019 Honda model. However, the most important is the Honda Sensing suite. This is a safety feature of all new Honda models that offers you innovative safety technology. The purpose of the Honda Sensing suite is to assist you with details you might miss while driving.

The Honda Sensing suite uses sensors to monitor the environment around you and to warn you before any harm comes to you. It’s like having an extra pair of reliable eyes watching over you when you park or change lanes.

The Honda Sensing Suite

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Photo from: https://www.autoguide.com/

It’s better than cruise control. While cruise control works at a single set speed, ACC adapts based on your environment. It can reduce acceleration and then return to the set speed. You can also set a safe distance within which your car will follow the vehicle ahead of you.

• Automatic High Beam Headlights

Photo from: https://thenewswheel.com/

The headlights have sensors to track your environment and switch from low beams to high beams whenever necessary. It’s not just a safety device for you alone, as it also adapts to other road users.

• Blind Spot System

Photo from: https://www.honda-mideast.com/

This is a safety device aimed at reducing accident cases. If an object enters your blind spot, the sensor will trigger audio and visual alerts. It is useful when you are overtaking or want to change lanes and cannot see the car coming from behind.

• Forward Collision Sensor

Photo by: https://www.doverhonda.com/

If you take your eyes off the road, you might approach or hit the car ahead without realizing it. Honda Fit reliability will prevent this by giving you alerts, making you slow down, or braking. If your reaction time is slow to avoid the accident, it will brake automatically, ensuring your safety.

• Lane Keeping System

Photo from: https://www.hiltonheadhonda.com/

It prevents your car from drifting into another lane when you haven’t used the turn signal. If you stray from your lane, the steering torque will push your vehicle back to the middle of the road.

The Lane Keeping System is the same as the Road Departure Mitigation System, which applies when you drift without signaling. The steering automatically brings your car back onto the road.

• Traffic Sign Recognition

Photo from: https://www.dowhonda.com/

It’s a useful safety feature that informs drivers of any road signs or speed limits. It uses a front camera that detects traffic signs and alerts you about them.

• Collision Mitigation Braking System

Photo from: Winding Road Magazine – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvxFFKv80H8

It is useful for avoiding hitting sudden obstacles on the road. It will brake automatically if you cannot reach the brake pedal in time to stop the car.

Reasons to Buy the Honda Fit Reliability

• Spacious Interior Cabin

Photo from: https://www.atlantichonda.com/

From the outside, the Honda Fit looks like a compact sedan. This might make you believe it’s not spacious. Once inside, you’ll notice there is so much free space in the front. You’ll also have enough leg and hip room for all passengers. Thanks to its design, you can configure the seats and create space inside the cabin.

• Perfect Handling

Photo from: http://www.everymandriver.com/

It has smooth handling, and you can negotiate the tightest turns without stressing the vehicle. It gives you confidence when taking highways because you have stability and speed. You don’t need to worry if you change lanes on the road at a significant pace.

For a vehicle in this category, speed and handling are essential features you will appreciate.

• High Safety Rating

Photo by: https://www.showcasehonda.com/

All vehicles from the Honda brand pride themselves on high safety standards. The Honda Fit is no exception. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, the Honda Fit has five stars in all tests except one. The test was in 2019, and the only four stars were in the rollover test.

The NHTSA gives the Honda Fit a 14.7% rollover risk probability. It is in this regard that the Honda Fit is among the safest cars.

• Cargo Space

Photo by: https://carbuzz.com/

Few hatchbacks offer a lot of cargo space, and most drivers know this. However, the Honda Fit has a smart design that maximizes every inch of space in the cabin. The rear seats can fold flat, creating more space in the back. The 16.6 cubic feet of space can transform into 52.7 cubic feet in an instant.

Vehicles in this category rarely have such interior space when you need it.

• Safety and Infotainment Features

Photo from: https://www.coralspringshonda.com/

It comes with an infotainment screen with excellent graphics and displays. The safety features of the Honda Sensing suite are present in all Honda trim levels. The use of sensors and cameras helps keep a vigilant eye on the road while you drive. The best thing is the automatic steering and braking in cases where you are slow to react. The safety level of the Honda Fit is not typical of most vehicles in this category.

It uses high-end technological integration. It has a smartphone app compatible with iOS and Android versions.

• Fuel Economy

Photo by: https://www.greenbiz.com/

The Honda Fit has excellent fuel economy, making it perfect for modern driving. This is why you will save money on fuel while avoiding environmental pollution. Fuel economy has a direct correlation with climate change. As the world progresses towards better energy efficiency, Honda Fits leads the pack of cars in the same category.

Better fuel economy also leads to increased energy sustainability and reduced dependence on oil.

• Manual Transmission

Photo by: https://www.commonwealthhonda.com/

The six-speed transmission is smooth, and you will enjoy great power in this small sedan. The manual transmission, combined with a 1.5-liter engine and a four-cylinder engine, gives you efficiency. It also develops 130 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, which is sufficient for a car in this category.

The manual gear lever is precise

The gasoline or diesel engine in your car or truck produces the power needed to push you down the road. At the same time, that engine produces a considerable amount of wasted energy in the form of heat. And that heat must be drawn out of the mechanisms inside the engine and effectively discharged into the outside air.

How can that happen? Well, unless you are driving an old VW Bug, a Chevy Corvair, or a Porsche, your car will have a water-cooled engine. Your car will also have an engine with internal water passages, a water pump, a heat exchanger called a radiator, and a bunch of flexible hoses connecting these items together.

How does all this work? When the engine is running, the water pump circulates the coolant through the engine and to the radiator. The hoses carry this fluid. As you drive, the water picks up heat from the engine and releases that heat into the air flowing through the radiator. This prevents your engine from overheating.

What is Engine Coolant?

In the above description, “water” is the term used for the coolant. But the coolant will not be just water but a mixture of water and antifreeze. The technical term for this mixture is coolant.

Simply put, coolant is the liquid used to cool your car’s engine. To properly understand today’s automotive coolants, we must first look at the qualities of pure water once used for this purpose.

For engine cooling, water has very positive qualities.

• It has a very high specific heat capacity. That is, water can hold more heat per unit volume than almost any other fluid.
• It has a fairly high boiling point.
• It is available virtually everywhere at a remarkably low cost.

There is no doubt that these three factors made water the coolant of choice in the early 1900s when motor vehicles came on the scene. But there are several problems with using water alone that made it then and even now inferior to the ultimate engine coolant.

• Water has a freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit, making it unsuitable for engines used in most high-latitude climates worldwide.
• Worse, when it freezes, it expands. This behavior can crack any water-cooled engine in winter with water alone. And it can also freeze inside a radiator and easily destroy that expensive part.
• Water promotes corrosion (creates metal oxides or rust) with the materials commonly used in engines and radiators.

Very early in engine development, chemists began modifying water with added chemicals to make it a more suitable coolant. These additives aimed to both overcome the disadvantages of water described above while preserving the benefits that water brings to keeping things cool.

Making Water the Ideal Coolant

Early in the history of engine cooling, the biggest problem was coolant freezing. And chemists quickly discovered that methyl alcohol (methanol) could be mixed with water and thus lower its freezing point. Methanol was the first coolant additive called antifreeze.

Unfortunately, this antifreeze also lowered the boiling point of water, introducing a new and major problem. Fresh water boils at 212° F. Engines reach operating temperatures equal to or greater than 212° and can easily boil water. The lowered boiling point using methanol for antifreeze could not be tolerated.

The next step forward was a chemical called glycerol. It lowered the freezing point of water but was only effective down to -36° F. Not low enough for all winter weather conditions. An even better product was needed.

In 1926, chemists found a lasting answer, a petroleum-based derivative called ethylene glycol. When added to water, ethylene glycol not only lowers the freezing point sufficiently but also increases the boiling point. Ethylene glycol became the new antifreeze of choice for combustion engines.

Ethylene glycol has about half the specific heat value of water. So, when added to water, the amount of heat a given volume of this coolant mixture can hold is reduced. Cooling systems must circulate higher flow rates of this coolant to transfer the same amount of heat that water alone would carry.

Furthermore, pure ethylene glycol is sweet-tasting and toxic. A spill of coolant from your car with this particular antifreeze mixture on your driveway could leave a toxic puddle. Your neighbor’s puppy might be attracted to the taste of lapping it up, leading to sad consequences. Always clean up coolant spills to avoid such a disaster.

Propylene glycol, a second, more recent option for antifreeze, also works well for automotive cooling purposes. And in moderate amounts, it is non-toxic. However, when used in coolant mixtures, it is prone to developing bacterial and fungal growth over time. Special additives minimize this risk.

In 2012, U.S. antifreeze manufacturers agreed to add a bitter-tasting chemical to their antifreeze products to mitigate the toxicity problem. This did not prove to be a total success.

For this reason, the use of propylene glycol has expanded. The chemical, glycerol, whose use for automotive antifreeze was abandoned in 1926, has recently been reconsidered as a possible non-toxic replacement for ethylene glycol.

Antifreeze manufacturers use proprietary additives to extend the life of the antifreeze, minimize corrosion, improve water pump performance, and reduce foaming.

The characteristic antifreeze smell you may have noticed from time to time under the hood comes from a common corrosion inhibitor, tolyltriazole. A secondary benefit with this additive is that antifreeze leaks are often easily detectable with a sensitive nose.

Does It Matter What Coolant I Use?

Yes, absolutely. Your car or truck owner’s manual will give you precise advice in this regard. Ignoring this direction could eventually cost you a bundle in repairs a few miles down the road.

Different Types of Coolant

A popular auto parts store sells 17 different types of antifreeze for cars and trucks. Here, we will try to group this dizzying array into the basic types of antifreeze and antifreeze colors you might expect to find on retailer shelves.

Additionally, you will need to choose between full-strength antifreeze or a 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water.

Full-strength antifreeze will require you to mix it with distilled water before installing it in your car’s cooling system. A 50-50 mix will work for most winter climates, protecting against freezing down to -35° F. For extreme cold, a 60-40 mix of antifreeze to water can be used to provide low-temperature freeze protection.

Furthermore, never fill an empty cooling system with 100% antifreeze, i.e., antifreeze without added water. In this situation, undiluted antifreeze will freeze at about 10° F instead of the -35° F achieved with a 50-50 mix.

Let’s review the colors and types of antifreeze. Coolants are colored to help identify the coolant in an engine. This can help us avoid adding the wrong coolant. Additionally, the loss of its bright color can indicate to us that a coolant is at the end of its life.

#1 – IAT (Inorganic Acid Technology)

Typical Color: Bright Green

This is the oldest coolant mixture and was installed by all domestic automakers until about 1994, with some brands such as Ford continuing until 2002.

Asian and European automakers stopped using this mixture in 1990. It contains phosphates and silicates and works quite well with cast iron engine blocks and copper or aluminum radiators.

IAT coolants must be flushed and renewed every 2 years or 36,000 miles. If left in an engine beyond these limits, the inevitable formation of clogging solids could degrade a cooling system’s performance. Heater core blockages were not uncommon with this coolant years ago if it was not regularly replaced.

#2 – OAT (Organic Acid Technology)

Typical Color: Orange, Red, Blue, or Dark Green

This type of coolant contains neither phosphates nor silicates and is found in most domestic cars built after 1994. The extended coolant life of up to 5 years or 150,000 miles is an advantage with these coolants.

#3 – HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology)

Typical Color: Yellow, Turquoise, Pink, Blue, or Purple

These coolant mixtures fall between IAT and OAT types and are called Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) products. HOATs are commonly installed in new Chrysler products as well as European and Asian cars.

#4 – Dex-Cool

Typical Color: Orange

Dex-Cool, an OAT type, was developed in 1995 for GM cars. When owners mistakenly added green coolant to systems containing the Dex-Cool system, blockages frequently occurred.

In other respects, Dex-Cool is an acceptable coolant but should never be mixed with other types of antifreeze.

Carmaker Branded Antifreeze

For your recent domestic or foreign car model, going to the dealer parts counter for antifreeze may be your best bet. By doing so, you won’t have to interpret the antifreeze specifications and/or usage constraints on those gallon can labels at the parts store.

Although you may pay a bit more, you will also have the assurance of using a coolant formula specially blended for your car.

What Type of Coolant Does MY Car Need?

Your car came from the manufacturer with the type of coolant it needs. For its lifetime, that same type of coolant should be used. The type will be specified in your owner’s manual.

Qualified auto parts specialists can also provide you with this information if you need to purchase antifreeze.

Can I Mix Different Coolants?

No. You should never take that risk. Coolant mixtures are decidedly different.

Of course, there are at least three manufacturers making a so-called “universal” 150,000-mile extended-life coolant (yellow in color). But adding it to your car’s cooling system carries a risk. To be safe, all you need to do whenever antifreeze is required is to purchase the type specified for your specific vehicle.

And what if you are out in the deserts and your cooling system is slowly leaking? If that happens, you can always add distilled water to your cooling system. You can even add clean water from a nearby stream if you are desperate. But that is a temporary solution until you get back to civilization.

Why? Because adding that water will degrade the freeze and boil-over protection. So, you should soon have the system leak checked and the coolant mixture either corrected to restore protection or the system flushed and filled.

Can I Add New Coolant to Old Coolant?

Yes, you can. But here is the rule:

• The new coolant you add must be the same type and color as the existing antifreeze in your car’s cooling system. Failure to follow this rule could cause costly damage to your engine.

Furthermore, when adding coolant, you should always use a pre-mixed 50-50 antifreeze mixture. Most cars will already have a 50-50 mixture installed. Thus, your addition of this fresh coolant mixture will not significantly disrupt the freeze and boil-over temperatures.

What Can Happen if I Use the Wrong Type of Coolant?

Adding the wrong antifreeze to your cooling system can cause the coolant to coagulate and clog the radiator or the entire system.

If severely clogged, the system cannot be easily flushed and may require costly complete disassembly for decontamination.

An Important Caution with Pre-Owned Vehicles

Let’s say you just bought a used car, perhaps five years old or more and/or with over 150,000 miles on the odometer. Your first maintenance job on this car should be a complete cooling system drain and flush with the correct new coolant installed.

You may not know if such service has ever been performed for your “new” car. So, it would be extremely wise of you to take this step.

Robust. That’s the kind of person you are. The wind in your dusty hair, crawling on sick mountain trails that haven’t been traveled in years. You love being alone, master of your destiny, captain of your soul.

That, of course, is why you chose to buy a Jeep. You were told it’s the only vehicle that will take you to those remote and hard-to-reach places in this world, and that’s exactly what you intend to do.

However, when you start driving miles in your brand new 4×4, you can’t help but notice that there isn’t much luxury in the cabin and the ride is quite rough. The parts are quite expensive, and in fact, you can hear the engine on the radio!

This raises the question…

Why Are Jeeps So Expensive?

#1 – Supply and Demand

Jeep Wranglers are very popular and Jeep knows it. Everyone loves the removable doors and the classic slotted grille on the front of the Wrangler. People love buying Jeeps because of their off-road capability, even if they don’t intend to venture outside the mall.

As a company, Jeep also maintains low production volume to ensure demand remains high. This way, they can charge $40,000 for a mid-range version and people will line up to pay the exorbitant “dealer markup.”

Basically, if you have something that everyone wants, why would you lower its price? A well-equipped Jeep Gladiator can be bought for nearly $70,000! That’s a lot for a utility farm truck!

#2 – History

Part of the reason Jeeps command such a high price these days is due to this automobile’s long and successful history.

Used as a utility troop carrier during World War II, the Jeep was supposed to cross any terrain, carry .50 caliber machine guns, and tow anti-tank weapons to the front line. It was supposed to be light enough that, if it ended up stuck, one or two guys could lift it and get it moving down the trail.

The original “Willys” Jeep, as it was called then, was also supposed to be easy to work on, meaning all parts were readily available and quite simple to use. Interestingly, many Jeeps were shipped to the army as crates of disassembled parts. Frontline mechanics were supposed to assemble the entire vehicle in one day to get it to the front line!

What I also hear and see in Jeep circles is that there is a fairly loyal brotherhood around these vehicles. When you buy a Jeep, you wave to other Jeep owners and say, “Hey! You have a Jeep like mine! Hey buddy, isn’t it cool that we bought the same car?”

When you fill up at the gas station, people might come up to you and ask you everything there is to know about your car. That’s another reason Jeep prices go up every year, because you’re not just buying a car, you’re buying a complete experience.

It’s safe to say that the Jeep Wrangler’s rich and interesting past, along with the brotherhood, have created greater demand for the Jeep brand as a whole.

#3 – Competition

While we’re talking about Jeep Wranglers, I’ll also mention that they are priced so high because they don’t have much competition. For the price, you can’t get a solid front axle, electronic sway bar disconnects, front and rear lockers, and all-terrain tires in a vehicle from the factory.

So, for those who place great importance on off-road performance, there’s really only one option on the market: the Jeep Wrangler.

When you look at the other models in the Jeep lineup, all are equipped with the optional “Trailhawk” trim that offers huge improvements in off-road capabilities, which can compete with any of the other SUVs offered on the current market.

How to Get a Good Deal on a Jeep

As with most other cars, the best deals you’ll find will be on the used market. Normally, you want to look for cars with less than 100,000 miles, a full maintenance history, a clean title, and preferably “Certified Pre-Owned.”

This way, you avoid the huge depreciation in the first two years of ownership and you still get a car with plenty of life left.

Are Jeeps Expensive to Maintain?

The average maintenance cost for a Jeep Wrangler is $694, barely $100 more than other SUVs in the segment. Although the average cost is higher, the likelihood of you needing to go to a mechanic is quite low on average.

That being said, repairs on Jeep Wranglers are on average more severe because there are more issues than on a standard front-wheel-drive sedan, for example.

Now, if you plan on taking your Jeep to MOAB for the Easter Jeep Safari (I know I am!) and you want to tackle Pritchett Canyon, you risk breaking a tie rod, your axles, your differential, maybe your transfer case, and your transmission.

Not to mention that if you need someone to tow you from a difficult spot, you’ll spend at least $2000 just to get to the nearest gas station. So, you’ll have to spend a lot more than $694 a year if you want to keep up this hobby.

Plus, if you’re going to have a Jeep, you better be sure it won’t stay stock for very long! You need to get the big 35-inch tires, the gold rims, the King Shocks, and make sure not to forget the swiveling light bars!

Otherwise, why did you even buy a Jeep, right? It’s a situation where you have to pay to play with the big 4X4 bois.

Jeep Insurance Costs

With Progressive insurance, you’ll spend about $950 per year on average to insure a Jeep Wrangler. However, as with all insurance premiums, this can be modified by your age, driving history, and the type of car you drive.

I’ll also add that almost all insurance companies will not cover accidents/damage caused by tackling sketchy trails in the mountains. So, make sure not to try to file a claim for a bent rock slider or a torn sidewall, because you might get a few raised eyebrows from your local insurance agent.

Overall, Jeeps are quite expensive to purchase and may cost you a bit more each year to keep them running properly. However, when you compare its off-road capabilities to any of the other options in this class, there’s no doubt which is the better deal.

Simply put, if you go off-road and love exploring most of the time you get in your vehicle, get yourself a Jeep.