₦airaland Forum

OEM VS AFTERMARKET CAR PARTS

Car maintenance and repair may sometimes be overwhelming. Making decisions of what is best for your car is necessary and it is almost inevitable that at some point in time, you will have the need to replace a vehicle part.

Having to choose between Aftermarket and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts may become a concern or confusing to say the least. However, there is no need to fret, “Knowledge they say is power”.

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER (OEM):

Simply put, OEMs are parts made by the company which originally built it for the vehicle company. Vehicle manufacturers sub-contract to other companies (e.g. Bosch) who produce parts for them.

These parts are identical to the ones used in producing a vehicle and are rebranded by vehicle manufacturers to their name with product license and warranty. OEMs are significantly more expensive, but an actual replica of the vehicle part. However, if you don’t mind the price or you are not certain of which Aftermarket brand to try out, this option is best for you.

AFTERMARKET:

These are parts built by other companies other than the original manufacturer. They are designed to function and fit just as good as or even better than OEM parts. This is because, some Aftermarket companies study specific OEM parts and create an improvement on the materials and original design of OEM parts based on observed flaws.

Hence, it is important to note that some Aftermarket parts based on the brand may have slight difference in design compared to OEM parts with same function. Also, some Aftermarket companies are OEM companies for vehicle manufacturers.

Aftermarket parts are relatively cheaper than OEM parts with lots of brands to choose from based on your preference and budget.

Thanks for reading.

A person could think of a German car as an investment. It is a purchase that will enhance an individual’s prestige, announce to the world that he or she is successful in business, and also hint that the driver has very good taste in automobiles. German cars are easily recognized as the best manufacturers of cars on the road. From BMW to Audi to Benz to Porshe just to name a few. They are not a cheap vehicles at all. A brand-new cha-cha tear-rubber German vehicle will cost tens of thousands of dollars(millions in Naira) and it is important to think of those ways that will increase the life of the car, or extend the investment if you will. Here are some basic tips on auto maintenance for them.

Body

A real simple tip is to keep it in the shade. The rays of the sun can fade the paint job and if it’s not possible to park it in a garage or under a tree, a car cover can be used so the paint job is kept fresh and shiny. The paint job is susceptible to the wear and tear that slush or grime will produce. This is why washing the car often is a very good maintenance idea. It also allows you to notice whether rust is starting to develop so that can be taken care of. Waxing the car also helps protect the paint from various corrosive such as bird droppings.

Brakes

The brakes ought to be inspected on a routine basis, and any defects such as worn pads or excessive grooves in the brake drums will require that maintenance has to be done to replace them. The electrical system of the car ought to be checked by a master mechanic who is familiar with the electrical systems, and not somebody who is involved in just routine repair of cars.

Transmission

The transmission is a critical component underneath the hood. It should be given service when the mileage is between 80,000 and 100,000 miles. The transmission should definitely be serviced after five years of operation. The transmission fluid ought to be inspected every time service work is done on the car. Other fluids are important in maintenance. Newer models will use synthetic oil which requires periodic changing. The coolant level of the engine is an important to prevent any overheating. If there is any noticeable drop in the coolant level a mechanic should be asked to take a look to see what the problem might be. The brake fluid level should be something examined and replaced approximately every 20,000 miles. Air filters should be replaced at 40,000 mile mark.

Ordinary Maintenance Work

Some of this is service work is done at the time of a tune-up or regular inspection. Something that the owner of a German car can do a routine basis is use gasoline has the right octane rating for the car(we nor dey bother to check octane rating for filling station). Mercedes, Audi, BMW etc are European models, and the octane ratings of European cars are different than those of American vehicles. It is a good idea to consult the owner’s manual to find out what octane rating is best for your German car, and use gasoline that fits that. The benefit is fewer problems with the engine itself.

Tires

A very easy maintenance job is seeing to it that the tires have the proper amount of air pressure in them. It is a small thing, but poor air pressure can affect the alignment of the car and have an impact on the brake system as well. It doesn’t take much to check the pressure and air gauge so please ensure you do that regularly.

None of the above tips should be considered annoying chores. Taken as a whole these pointers help the owner maintain a fantastic car for many years. These aren’t meant to be discarded after eight or nine years of use; more than 10 years is achievable. The owner in the short-term should remember that this beautiful car costs a fair amount of money in order to get. The little maintenance chores will extend the life of the family jewel for years longer than ordinary. They are certainly worth all the effort expended, and whatever costs that may be incurred to keep your German car running like it just came off the assembly line.

Thanks for reading.

Source: Procarmechanics

Top 10 Hottest Female Race Car Drivers


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3BHNptXkUZQ

Top 10 Female Celebrities and their SuperCars


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJj8tPO6d2I

It's been estimated that about half a million cars have been damaged by Hurricane Harvey and there's no doubt that some of those cars will be sought after by Nigerian dealers simply because it's cheap. Pulled some Q & A's from Fox News website that will educate our 9ja folks on the dangers of buying vehicles involved in flooding. If you can refer to LadipoNG article(still fresh from the kitchen) about ECU or brainbox as most of know it, you'll discover that once a water resides in the brainbox the vehicle can be the same again. So please if you do not like or want headaches throughout your ownership period of these cars, it is advised that you avoid them like the plague!



Q: HOW CAN I AVOID BUYING A FLOOD-DAMAGED VEHICLE?

A: Flooded cars could be shipped to other parts of the country or even other nations. To find out where the car came from and if it has a salvage title, experts suggest keying the vehicle identification number into services (there's a charge) that search car histories such as Autocheck or Carfax. Carfax and the National Insurance Crime Bureau offer free services to check for flood damage. Buyers can ask to take the car to a mechanic for inspection. Buyers can also look for signs of flooding, including musty or moldy odors or overpowering use of air freshener, discolored carpet or new carpet in an old car, water lines in the engine compartment or trunk, fogging inside headlights or taillights, rust or flaking metal under the car, and dirt buildup in unusual areas such as around seat tracks. If you see any signs, don't buy the car, AAA's Nielsen says. "You're liable to face gremlins with that car forever," he said.

Q: IF IT'S REPAIRED, WILL MY CAR BE SAFE?

A: Probably not. Water could have damaged sensors, electrical connectors, computer chips and wiring that are under the carpet, behind the dashboard or in the engine compartment. That could disable lights, air bags, ignition, gas and brake pedal sensors or other essential systems. Corrosion can form beneath wiring insulation. Salty water from the Gulf of Mexico would make that worse. Damage may not surface for years. "Maybe it's OK. Maybe it's not. I would be really worried about it," says Nielsen.

Q: SHOULD I START MY CAR IF IT'S BEEN FLOODED?
A: No, in almost all cases. If the car was only in a few inches of water that didn't rise past the bottom of the body, maybe. Water higher than that can get into wires, transmission parts, the exhaust or other places. Deeper water could enter the cylinders that surround the pistons. Trying to start the car could bend parts that connect the pistons to the rest of the drive train, said John Nielsen, managing director of automotive engineering for AAA. Oil, gasoline, antifreeze, brake fluid and other liquids could have water in them that could cause damage if not replaced. Nielsen recommends having the car towed to a mechanic for inspection. Depending on the severity of flood damage, he says the cost of refurbishing a car likely will be more than replacing it.

N.B: Just to add to what was said, the last paragraph says the cost of refurbishing a car will likely exceed getting another (Wise Words> na im Oyinbo dey call 'Penny Wise, Pound Foolish). *pulls on one ear* You have been warned!

Source: FoxNews

LivinaPatrick:
Wonderful

Oh yes it is

Coolgent:
Very educative

Thank you fine Sir(I presume). We aim to please!

kenx1:
Hello Car Gurus

Please help me my Toyota Camry 2010 model drains battery easily, i have checked the alternator and battery they are OK but after parking the car it drains overnight.

Can someone tell me the cause of this drain

Thank you

Take your car to an automotive specialist. If you are unable to do that right now, please bear in mind that there are several reasons to which any could be the cause of the drainage, which may include lights or switches that won't go off, bad battery, alternator/diode issues or it could even be your car alarm system due to fact that it's been raining a lot with winds that could trip the alarm causing it to blare continuously, thereby causing the drainage.

So what is an E.C.U? If you type ecu into the google search bar and you click enter. The first definition you get is “An engine control unit (ECU), also commonly called an engine control module (ECM), is a type of electronic control unit that controls a series of actuators on an internal combustion engine to ensure optimal engine performance.” Which is an excerpt from Wikipedia but if you’re opting for a more refined definition, yourmechanic.com expresses it as “The engine control module (ECM), also commonly referred to as the engine control unit (ECU) or powertrain control module (PCM), is one of the most important components found on virtually all modern vehicles. It essentially functions as the main computer for many of the vehicle’s engine performance and drivability functions. The ECM takes the information from the engine's various sensors, and uses that information to calculate and tune engine spark and fuel for maximum power and efficiency.” Please for the purpose of this article, I’ll refer to it as ECU.
As you can see, the ECU plays a very important role such as N’golo Kante’s contributions to the EPL over the last two seasons. Due to the fact that many of the essential functions are controlled by the ECU. It can cause all sorts of problems and in some cases, even render the vehicle immobile. A bad ECU will usually reveal symptoms that can alert you of its potential fault/damage.

Symptoms of a bad ECU
• The check engine light remains after resetting
The check engine light usually comes up if the car’s on board computer detects any fault or loop-sided feedback in its circuitry. Sometimes, it could display regardless of faults and this could be due to bad ECU. It is highly recommended that you diagnose properly before carrying out any replacements or undergoing any repairs.

• Faulty transmission
A bad ECU can often result in a faulty transmission especially in vehicles with Automatic Transmission. That’s why it’s necessary to check your vehicle out as not all perceived mechanical faults are entirely mechanical, it could also be electrical.

• Engine misfires or turns off erratically
Yes I know, this probably looks like a fuel pump issue but it could also be as a result of bad ECU. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I’ll reiterate, check properly before making any decision.

• Inability to start
A bad ECU oftentimes may cause you to experience difficulty starting your vehicle. It may or may not start at all, even if or especially when the battery and electrical components are in good condition.

• Sudden drop in fuel economy
I must admit, this strongly defies car logic but apparently the ECU learns your driving pattern i.e. how you accelerate and brake. How does this affect fuel consumption? You ask, well in adapting to your driving style, the ECU could gradually increase the quantity of fuel being delivered to your engine during combustion in anticipation of an aggressive driver.

The ECU in most cases is preset by manufacturers for a particular region. That’s why it is advised, you carry out an ECU reset when you buy a used vehicle albeit this could be counter-productive as there have reports of increased fuel consumption after reset or update of ECU. When manufacturers were contacted as to why this strange phenomenon was taking place, they replied something about reducing emissions.

• Loss of power
A bad ECU can detect a non-existing error in a vehicle. Thereby causing the ECU to give a command to the engine to lose power or stop the engine completely in order to prevent an accident. It’s a fail-safe feature embedded into the system by manufacturers although it seems unnecessary.

• Reduction in engine efficiency
The efficiency of an engine could reduce due to faulty ECU relaying bad commands to the engine. Thereby causing the engine to jerk or stop every now and then. On a side note, with technological innovations propelling the automotive industry into the jet age. We may yet see an over-reliance on vehicle’s onboard computer especially with many manufacturers announcing hybrid/all electric models as upcoming launches in coming years.


Possible causes of bad ECU

• Improper battery terminal connection
This is very self-explanatory. You connect the terminal wrongly, you potentially fry your vehicle’s electrical unit albeit some manufacturers, as a fail-safe, install a battery fuse (main fuse) that’ll blow up instead of the entire electrical system. All in all, be careful whenever you insert and connect a vehicle’s battery.

• Dead battery cells/corrosion
Vehicles which predate the 90’s are commonly affected by the aforementioned issues. That doesn’t mean your new car can’t be affected, so always ensure that you clean up the terminal head whenever you notice corrosive build up. Also, if you’ve abandoned your vehicle for some time, it is suggested that you take out the battery, charge up (if it’s dead) and warm your vehicle. Ignorance of these things can lead to massive problems at the end of the day.

• Fire or water damage
We are all aware of the massive floods that happened over the course of the weekend as result of non-stop rainfall in the last two weeks. Most folks need not be told that water/fire and electronic devices don’t go well together. Again it’s advised you check your vehicle out through proper diagnostic methods for any faults before driving if you vehicle was submerged in water.

• Improper grounding
Grounding, in automotive terms is a connection to the body or metallic surface of the vehicle. Thus any connection to the body of the car is a connection to the negative terminal of the battery. Electricity flows from the positive of the battery, through the circuit to do some work, then back through the body to the battery. This is a “negative ground” system which is by far the most popular automotive ground scheme used in the automotive world.

The main reason this is done is to greatly simplify the wiring of a vehicle. Since most car bodies are made of metal, they provide a perfect ground plane, eliminating the need to run a separate ground wire to each circuit which reduces the amount of wires necessary in half.

Good grounds are important because poor grounds cause voltage drop. The consequence of this voltage drop is that the systems in that circuit can malfunction and this is likely to affect the ECU.


Solution to repair or replace ECU

From everything that’s been said, we hope you’ve realized how important the ECU of a vehicle is as it basically the engine’s brain. If you suspect a bad ECU in your vehicle, make sure you take your vehicle to a mechanic or garage that uses latest computer diagnostic equipment to check your vehicle’s onboard computer.

I hope you have been educated by this piece. Once again, the need for proper and thorough diagnostic can never be over-emphasized. We wish you well. Have a good one.

It’s common sense to move your valuables to higher ground when floods threaten your home, however, we’re not sure jack stands, garden blocks and a trailer are what they mean. Regardless, one Texas man had the foresight to raise his two BMW E36 M3s and one BMW X5 just enough to stand above the floods brought by Hurricane Harvey.(the man just nor wan hear say dem shoot bird & im mama fly !)


Houston-area BMW enthusiast Cody W. Crochet isn’t the only person in Harvey’s flood zone to save his cars by raising them up. Several friends of mine put their favorite vehicles on a home lift before the floods came, and another parked his car on an upper floor of a parking garage. However, Crochet may have had the most inventive solution to the rising waters.

Crochet told Jalopnik that he was originally supposed to get only around one foot of flooding. That was enough to prompt him to put his white BMW E36 M3 up on his trailer, and his red BMW E36 M3 up on jack stands last Friday.

He figured the BMW X5 would be safe, as it’s pretty tall in the air to begin with. He’d installed a Fluid MotorUnion lift kit and 33-inch Open Country off-road tires.


Garden blocks: not just for decoration anymore.
Sadly, the water kept coming and coming. When Crochet realized the flood would reach above the projected one foot mark, he turned to garden blocks to raise up the red M3:

I woke up on Sunday morning at 4:45 a.m. to a decent amount of water outside. All cars were safe at that point. By 6:00 a.m., I knew the water was rising past the 1'-0" mark. So I went out to raise the car to the top of the jack stands.

As I was doing so, the water was rising faster and faster, about 5 inches every 30 minutes. I had to improvise and only thing I had were garden blocks. I immediately started grabbing garden blocks and put one set under each jack stand thinking this was enough. But as I would finish that, the water rose to the bottom of the tire. So I progressively added more an more as the water rose. By the time I was done I was working in above knee water using the last of my garden bricks to get the car to the max height you see.
At this point, even the lifted X5 was in danger. So, Crochet drove it up as high on his property as he could—right to the front porch. Unfortunately, the house eventually got about one foot and six inches of water inside but at least the BMWs were safe.


Crochet documents his adventures with his BMWs on his Texas E36 Garage YouTube channel, and he says he plans to upload the process of lifting his car to safety there once he has power back. For now, though, Crochet and his cars are at least safe in the unprecedented storm that has claimed ten lives to date and left thousands stranded across the area.

“In 100 years this house has never flooded at all,” Crochet told Jalopnik. “This area has never seen this amount of water.”

The rain isn’t over yet, and Crochet may need to source a few more blocks. In the meantime, it’s hard not to appreciate his quick thinking.



Water barely touched the bottom of the M3’s tires.
UPDATE [11:29 p.m. ET]: Crochet posted the video of how he saved as much of his stuff from the flood as possible. He started by jacking up the car little by little using the original BMW jacks that came with the car as well as another jack with large block of wood on top that kept trying to float away. After a while, he has to go back and add more blocks under the car so it could withstand up to waist-deep water. For those interested in watching the video, enjoy;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYkdmHi6KpQ


You know he’s our kind of guy when he’s already thinking about what projects he can do after the water recedes with the red M3 up this high.

Source:Jalopnik

King4Roller:
Buy G-Wagon and relax.

Someday we all might be able to afford that or the Range Sport...

These cars come with good shock absorbers but unfortunately always end up getting damaged due to our bad roads. If you have the money it's strongly adviced that you replace any faulty or worn out parts as a stitch in time... You know the rest. If you're interested please call 09071026603 or visit our website @ https://ladipo.ng

There are a lot of Toyota Camrys out on our roads, and many of them are still being driven by their original owners. Here are five recommendations from enthusiasts of the top-selling car to keep the Camry running smoothly and to avoid costly replacement parts and service.

Maintenance Tips: Tip #1 Replace Fluids

When it comes to prolonging the life of your Camry, regular oil changes are important. So is changing the coolant every five years, ABS fluid at least once, and adding new power steering fluid if it’s dirty. If the power steering fluid is extremely dirty, check the drive shaft seal for leaking.

Maintenance Tips: Tip #2 Avoid Transmission Failure

If your Camry has more than 60,000 miles, it is time to change your transmission fluid. Check the transmission input shaft seal for leaking, and check the transmission flex plate for cracking.

Maintenance Tips: Tip #3 Maintain Radiator Hoses

Check all the coolant hoses carefully. These sometimes start as a slow leak and then become a burst.

Maintenance Tips: Tip #4 Don’t Ignore the Check Engine Light

Remove the EGR valve and check for carbon plugging in the valve opening, head, and tube. This is an emissions issue when the car is still driving normally, but the "check engine" light may come on when it’s time to replace the EGR valve.

Maintenance Tips: Tip #5 Replace

Various Parts

Replace the cam and crank seal and the pump driveshaft seal when the mileage gets high, and inspect the idler bearings for roughness.

Title Card: Scheduled Maintenance

Toyota Motor Sales and Camry enthusiasts advise scheduling regular preventive maintenance appointments. In addition, keep in mind other parts replacement and service needed over long-term ownership:
New tires
New rear rotors and brakes
New coolant hoses
Fuel injection service
And brake fluid flush
When driving on rough roads and inclement weather:
Inspect brake linings/drums and brake pads/discs
Inspect engine air filter
Inspect nuts and bolts on chassis and body

Using these tips and adding them into your regular maintenance will prolong the life of your Camry. These recommendations from enthusiasts will help your Camry run smoothly and avoid many costly repairs.

Source: Camryforums

Top Brands of 2017 from Consumer Report


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQC6rf_HQtw&itct=CBEQpDAYASITCJ_Bwpf7gNYCFcPhFgodwRsIIzIGcmVsbWZ1SMWu1PO27OG_PQ%3D%3D

If you're really serious about getting one then get in touch Sir.

Women have often been left out of history especially automotive history but here's a rundown of vintage vehicles tailored to suit females of our magnificent species.

1. 1964 Aston Martin DB5
https:///images/58swDf
Not only James Bond has the right to drive this car. The automobile became outrageously popular when it was featured as the famous spy's, in the acclaimed Goldfinger motion picture. The DB5 is a grand tourer that comes as a coupe or as a convertible thanks to its 3,995 cc Inline-6 engine and its 282 bhp.

2. 1954 Ferrari 250 Europa
https:///images/sKcrPh
This notorious automobile was first introduced at the 1954 Paris Motor Show and it quickly became the favourite car of the 50s. The Europa is quite powerful car its size, featuring a horsepower of 217, which comes from its V12 engine.

3. 1961-1974 Jaguar E-Type
https:///images/ZotLUn
The E-Type was a revolutionary car in many ways but it was Malcolm Saver's beautiful bodywork that set it apart from anything else on the road. With its faired-in headlamps, a long, sculpted nose and centered twin exhaust, there was nothing else like it and the car remains a unique proposition today. The E-Type is still considered by many to be one of the greatest car designs ever, with Enzo Ferrari famously describing it as "the most beautiful car in the world."

4. 1958-1960 Ford Thunderbird
https:///images/yWrbQp
In 1958, the Thunderbird was redesigned to fit 4 passengers. The modification increased the vehicle weight to 1,000 pounds. The car was one of the most powerful of the times, as it came equipped with a 5.8 liter V8 engine, responsible for producing 300hp.

5. 1967 Volkswagen Beetle
https:///images/WezAkc
No introduction needed as this still remains the car of the century. This one is such a classic car for women that it almost doesn't need any description. The charm of a small, smooth car appeals to ladies from all over the world. Another cute thing about its design is that its headlights feature eyelids. The 1967 Beetle features a 50 hp thanks to its 1.3 liter engine.

6. 1970 MG Midget
https:///images/BxywRV
The Midget is yet another classic British brand of cars, which specialized in manufacturing sports and coupes. The 1970 model has 65 hp due to its 1,275cc A-series engine. Its a cool car, which goes well with bright colours (such as red and light blue), and its certain that people won't feel cramped when driving it on the road.

7. 1955 Porshe 356 Speedster
https:///images/4pjGCD
This car is as classy as possible. Let's not forget that women used to buy the model back in the days because it was Jmes Dean's favourite vehicle. In fact, the actor used to drive it when he was outside the studio. The model is a luxury car known for its 1,300 and 1,500 cc engines.

8. 1969 -1973 Triumph TR6
https:///images/VnN3Sa
This beautiful British automobile boosts of a powerful 6-cylinder engine which can take the sports car from 0 to 60 mph in about 8 seconds which was mighty fast at the time. Some say it can reach a top speed of 120 mph.

9. 1960 - 1964 Chevrolet Corvair
https:///images/7Q3EQ4
This car is truly cosmopolitan, since Chevrolet made a big deal out of manufacturing it as a diversely as possible. Ladies could choose from 2-door convertibles and coupes, 4-door sedans and station wagons and if they're eager to use as much space as possible, they can even opt for a 6-door or an 8-door van.

Source: CarNewsTV

Thanks for reading. Did I forget to mention, these cars now cost a fortune...

Consumer Reports 10 Top Picks: Best Cars of 2017


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PX-HY251F0U

Rare American Models from CarNewsTV...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_voc7t-KutI

It is a bona fide wagon-not a crossover or even a lifted wagon, Eberhardt said of the vehicle that will share an aluminium architecture and Ingenium engines, both gasoline and diesel, with the XF sedan. We expect the new 2.0-liter gas engine to be available as well as the current 2.0-liter diesel base engine.

The XF Sportbrake Wagon's starting price is around $70,000.

Source:motortrend.com

Little tips and tweaks from consumer report that'll get you manipulating your A/C like a Boss!



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4XnoSRtSAo

Better still... just buy your parts from a trusted online/ecommerce seller... quality spare parts with warranty is assured cos they are aimed at protecting and growing their brand. @Ladipo.ng is one of them!

SHOCKS AND STRUTS

Ever been in a vehicle that felt like carton box on wheels? That dreaded fear of the next pothole or road bump and head battering bounce are all evident signs of worn out shock absorber or strut.

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

Although used interchangeably sometimes, shocks and struts are different and both play important roles in a vehicle. A vehicle will either have a shock or a strut at each wheel, and never both. Some vehicles may use shocks for both front wheels, and struts for both hind wheels, and vice versa.

SHOCK ABSORBER:
Commonly called shocks, a shock absorber simply absorbs impact of car movement on the road. Shocks are designed to serve as the first line of defense against potholes, bad roads and road bumps.
Through a process known as dampening, shocks are able to slow down and reduce the vibrations of the road by helping your car to recoil back to position after hitting a bump. There are three major integrant of a shock absorber; a coil, hydraulic fluid and a piston. To minimize “bumpiness” the piston mounts pressure on hydraulic fluid in the top chamber of the device and in turn, the hydraulic fluid slows down the coil as it relaxes back into place. This is known as a compression cycle.

STRUT:
The strut is a structural part of the vehicle suspension system which strut supports your vehicle during transportation, allowing it to conform to the roads. A Strut contains suspension parts such as; coil spring, strut bearing and steering knuckle into one assembly. A strut serves as the hub for the alignment and steering system of a vehicle.
You will most likely need to do an alignment after changing a strut, since the strut is an integral part of your vehicle suspension system, as well as a crucial part of your vehicle steering system, and therefore greatly affects alignment angles.

Please note that a strut cannot be used to replace a shock, and a shock cannot be used to replace a strut.

WHY YOU NEED TO REPLACE SHOCKS AND STRUTS

The stability and effective control of your car while in motion can be affected by worn shocks and struts. It is necessary to duly inspect and replace worn out shocks and struts as they cause wear and tear on your braking system, tyres and suspension system.
Worn out shocks and struts are characterized by unusual sound from the suspension system, swaying and bouncing of the vehicle. Ensure a comfortable and smooth ride and most certainly your safety.

At https://ladipo.ng, we provide you with premium quality spare parts for your replacements.

Note: IMAGE 1: Typical Shock Absorber
IMAGE 2: Typical Strut Assembly

LionDeLeo:
That ur number 1 na die.

You will replace shock absorber today, 5-6 months later you start hearing some funny noise again.

The mechanics are even confused. Sometimes they will tell you tokumbo is better, another day, the reverse.

But forget that Honda rubbish, that is my first car and I can tell you Toyota is more peaceful, na interior I go chop? Who interior epp sef?

There are different types of shock absorbers and struts in the market today. A whole lot of them are sub-standard too. You need to buy from a trusted source with a guarantee. I will give you a tip, you should buy an OEM brand which are quite pricey or you may choose to go for high quality aftermarket replacement shocks. We can give you any of these.

lonelydora:
You forgot

1. Shock Absorber failures

2. Dashboard cracking

3. Transmission issues

4. And una go dey follow Honda drag space when una know say Honda pass una.

So sorry it's coming late. Didn't forget @ 1. Shock Absorber failures. There's a more comprehensive article coming soon about shocks and struts.

So most of you must have been hearing Takata left, right, centre and if you're wondering please ponder no more I will tell you. It's a Japanese company that mostly designs and manufactures airbags for almost all the major brands in the auto industry, but alas they've been on the news quite a lot in the last three years or so and you should know by now... For the wrong reasons!
So here's what happened, the airbags made a couple of years ago are now bursting and when that happens, some metal fillings (shrapnel) shoots out and hits occupants of the vehicle especially those in front. This has led to some serious injuries and deaths in extreme cases, like the one recorded in India where a pregnant woman was killed in a 2001 Honda Pilot after the airbag accidentally deployed. Another in Malaysia, was a 44 year old woman killed in a minor crash after the airbag inflators had ruptured, she died instantly.
If you run a google search of affected brands, you'll see that Honda/Acura models between 2000 and 2003 are high on the risk index, and research shows that more premature airbag deployments have occurred in regions of higher temperatures (tropics). But as you already know, such things usually flies over the heads of our government agencies responsible for our health and safety. Other countries have been carrying out campaigns recalling affected vehicles and repairing or replacing them for free as this is the largest recall in the history of the automobile industry.
Please safe guard the life of family, friends and loved ones by telling them about this. A word as they say is enough for the wise. Check the list of car models affected here https://www.nhtsa.gov/recall-spotlight/takata-air-bags.
Beyond sales, we at https://ladipo.ng are interested in giving you true value… Safety is key!

So most of you must have been hearing Takata left, right, centre and if you're wondering please ponder no more I will tell you. It's a Japanese company that mostly designs and manufactures airbags for almost all the major brands in the auto industry, but atlas they've been on the news quite a lot in the last three years or so and you should know by now... For the wrong reasons!
So here's what happened, the airbags made a couple of years ago are now bursting and when that happens, some metal fillings (shrapnel) shoots out and hits occupants of the vehicle especially those in front. This has led to some serious injuries and deaths in extreme cases, like the one recorded in India where a pregnant woman was killed in a 2001 Honda Pilot after the airbag accidentally deployed.
If you run a google search of affected brands, you'll see that Honda/Acura models between 2000 and 2003 are high on the risk index, and research shows that more premature airbag deployments have occurred in regions of higher temperatures (tropics). But as you already know, such things usually flies over the heads of our government agencies responsible for our health and safety. Other countries have been carrying out campaigns recalling affected vehicles and repairing or replacing them for free as this is the largest recall in the history of the automobile industry.
Please safe guard the life of family, friends and loved ones by telling them about this. A word as they say is enough for the wise. Check the list of car models affected here https://www.nhtsa.gov/recall-spotlight/takata-air-bags.
Beyond sales, we at https://ladipo.ng are interested in giving you true value… Safety is key!

Signs of a Failing Transmission Oil
Just like engine oil, transmission oil is very essential. Transmission oil/fluid also known as ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) is used in vehicles with self-shifting or automatic transmissions. It helps to lubricate the transmission system and its components so as to prevent wear and improve rotational speed, as well as general transmission performance. In some cases, it can also serve as a coolant for your vehicle.
Changing transmission fluid may not be as frequent as engine oil, however, a routine check is important to gauge fluid level and prevent wear. To check transmission fluid is quick and easy using your dipstick and it is a safe way to ensure your visit to the auto technician does not cost you more than what is necessary for regular maintenance.



Using your dipstick, you are to carefully look out for the transmission fluid smell, viscosity and colour. Transmission oil should be odourless or with a decent smell. Burnt smell indicates that your transmission fluid is due for change. For viscosity, ATF is oil, so a watery, bubbly or foamy consistency is a bad sign. It should also be free of metal shavings and contaminants. The colour should be bright red or green and as vehicle mileage increases, it may become darker but a dark brown or black colour is a clear sign of bad transmission fluid or even worse, transmission system problems.
Other indications of urgent need to check and change your transmission fluid include;
Delay in vehicle movement: Slow response in shifting gears points to a problem with the transmission system. If your vehicle does not move as fast as the engine is running, consult your auto technician for ATF oil change and also to ascertain if other problems such as worn out clutch is not the cause.
Transmission grinding or strange sound: It is important to quickly identify strange noise from your transmission system in order to avert complications. Bear in mind that automatic transmission and manual transmission are different and will respond differently when malfunctioning.
Most importantly, before changing ATF, check with your vehicle manual to know what type of transmission fluid is compatible and recommended for your vehicle. There are different types of universal and vehicle specific ATFs such as, Nissan Matic J, Nissan Matic D, Toyota T-IV, Honda DW-1, Hyundai XTeer, Dexron III, Dexron III D, Ford Mercon, HFM-style fluids (highly friction modified) as well as synthetic fluids etc.
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Yes O! Very Important...

FEED YOUR ENGINE: OIL SPECIFICATIONS EXPLAINED
You cannot own a vehicle without knowing your engine deserves the best! Preventive (proactive) routine maintenance is key for the life span and optimum performance of your engine. Diligent engine oil change is a necessary part of routine maintenance.
Engine oil as a lubricant helps to prevent corrosion (rust), increase mileage, reduce wear by protecting the engine from friction and lower car heat by absorbing heat from the combustion chambers of your engine.
How to choose your engine oil
It is not just enough to change your engine oil, it is important to ensure you are using the right oil for your engine.
There is a plethora of engine oil brands to choose from. However, it is important to take into cognisance your car mileage and the car manufacturer’s recommended viscosity grade. Oil viscosity simply means the thickness or thinness of the oil, that is, the tendency of the oil to flow slowly or quickly. The higher (thicker) the viscosity of an oil, the slower it would flow.
Generally, engine oil is categorised as regular or synthetic oil. Synthetic oil though pricier does not require frequent change as regular oil and gives no room for sludge build-up. Regular oil is also efficient but requires increased oil change intervals.
A tip experts suggests is using engine oil with higher viscosity for older vehicles.
What you need to know
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed a grading system to classify the viscosity level of single grade and multi-grade engine oils. For single grade engine oils (e.g. 5W), the higher the number preceding ‘W’ the thicker the oil. Likewise, the lower the number, the better it flows at cold temperatures.
When checking the viscosity of a multi-grade engine oil brand of your choice (e.g. SAE 5W-30), the number preceding ‘W’ indicates the viscosity of the oil at cold temperatures and the number after ‘W’ indicates the viscosity when the engine is hot (100C/212F or higher) and in motion. 5W in SAE 5W-30, means that the engine can still pump the oil at a temperature as low as a single grade 5W oil. Similarly, 0W in SAE 0W-20 means that the oil can be pumped by the engine at the lowest tested temperatures. It is noteworthy to know that the letter ‘W’ simply stands for Winter and not Weight contrary to popular opinions.
It is therefore important to choose an oil thin enough for cold starts and thick enough when the engine is hot. Ideally, always refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for precise oil viscosity recommendations, or markings on the oil filler cap or dipstick, since engine manufacturers cautiously select the recommended engine oil viscosity grade for each specific engine.
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COMMON TOYOTA PROBLEMS

1. DOOR MECHANISM IN ELECTRIC SLIDING DOOR ‘SIENNA’

This occurs when the cable in the door becomes frayed, which will damage the electric motor.

2. ENGINE LIGHT WITH CODE P1121

It is commonly caused by a failed three way coolant control valve. Valve replacement is recommended.

3. ENGINE WON’T CRANK DUE TO STARTER

If the engine will not crank over, the most common problem is the starter. Sometimes it is only the starter solenoid, but often the complete starter (including solenoid) needs to be replaced.

4. RATTLE FROM ENGINE AT ALL SPEEDS

The timing chain tensioner is designed to use oil pressure to keep tension on the timing chain. When it develops a leak, it can no longer provide tension, and the timing chain will begin to make a slapping or rattling sound at all times.
If left in this condition, the timing chain may fail leading to costly internal engine repair.
To correct this issue the timing chain tensioner must be replaced with the revised part.

5. EXCESS ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION

Sludge can build up in the engine because Toyota did not recommend frequent enough oil changes. Owners who changed their oil every 3,000 miles did not experience these problems. This sludge build up can lead to excessive oil consumption.

6. MASSIVE OIL LEAK AND LOSS OF OIL PRESSURE

The VVT-i oil line is known to burst. This is a very large leak which covers the ground, engine and undercarriage.
If the oil line ruptures while driving, the low engine oil message and engine oil pressure warnings will illuminate. Continued use after these warnings will result in complete engine failure due to oil starvation.
To repair the issue, the line must be replaced and the engine bay and undercarriage must be cleaned thoroughly.


Conclusively, it is advised that you act fast and tackle any issue head-on and promptly, as a stitch in time saves nine. Whatever your palava/headache is, allow us to massage your temples as our team @ https://ladipo.ng provides premium replacement parts for your vehicle needs.

Car maintenance and repair may sometimes be overwhelming. Making decisions of what is best for your car is necessary and it is almost inevitable that at some point in time, you will have the need to replace a vehicle part.
Having to choose between Aftermarket and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts may become a concern or confusing to say the least. However, there is no need to fret, “Knowledge they say is power”.

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER (OEM):

Simply put, OEMs are parts made by the company which originally built it for the vehicle company. Vehicle manufacturers sub-contract to other companies (e.g. Bosch) who produce parts for them.
These parts are identical to the ones used in producing a vehicle and are rebranded by vehicle manufacturers to their name with product license and warranty. OEMs are significantly more expensive, but an actual replica of the vehicle part. However, if you don’t mind the price or you are not certain of which Aftermarket brand to try out, this option is best for you.

AFTERMARKET:

These are parts built by other companies other than the original manufacturer. They are designed to function and fit just as good as or even better than OEM parts. This is because, some Aftermarket companies study specific OEM parts and create an improvement on the materials and original design of OEM parts based on observed flaws.
Hence, it is important to note that some Aftermarket parts based on the brand may have slight difference in design compared to OEM parts with same function. Also, some Aftermarket companies are OEM companies for vehicle manufacturers.
Aftermarket parts are relatively cheaper than OEM parts with lots of brands to choose from based on your preference and budget. Here at Ladipo.ng we ensure to provide premium quality parts for you to choose from at the best prices.

Visit our online store front @ https://ladipo.ng or call us on 09071026603 and 09082580030 for your genuine vehicle spare parts and maintenance services.