Are Tinted Windows Illegal?

Car owners tint the windows of their vehicle for a variety of reasons, including security, privacy, appearance, and so on. When you have made the decision to have tinted windows, here are some of the rules and regulations to keep in mind:

• The intense sun rays can make the fabric of the car seats to fade easily. It can also contribute to the damage of leather seat coverings. The films that are available today are quite effective in blocking the damaging UV rays by up to 99%. Blocking these harmful rays does not only helps prevent you from skin cancer, but is also easy on your pockets.
• Car window tinting has different laws in every state, as each one has established restrictions regarding the Visible Light Transmission percentage through the car windows. There are states that provided limits on how dark a film is allowed, while some others have completely banned people from tinting their two front windows and windshield.
• If you are using a recreational vehicle, it is best to determine what sort of filming you are able to use. In most states, RVs are only permitted to use non-metallic films considering that they are also non-reflective.
• It is advisable that you get the windows of your vehicle tinted by a professional. Even though window tinting is not difficult at all, a shop that specializes in the job will do it correctly, plus the film can last much lasting. Consider asking the shop to present you a compliance certificate just in case you get questioned by the law enforcement.
• If you opt to tint the windows by yourself, you should thoroughly clean the windows before anything else. Then, cut the film exactly the same size as your car window, and install it with an adhesive. Smoothen the surface of the newly tinted windows with a squeegee to remove bubbles. Do not roll down or wash your windows yet until the film has totally bonded.
• The cost of window tinting will primarily depends on the size of the vehicle and the kind of film used. Performance warranty is another factor in the cost, together with how credible the provider is. It the brand and tint type also determine the cost.

So, if you would like to get the windows of your tinted, consult with the authorities with regard to the legal guidelines as per your state before you continue. Basically, it is not just about privacy, and get a classy appearance, because it is also protecting your body from direct sunlight.

How To Fix A Radiator Leak

A leaking radiator can happen in your car over time, and this requires immediate repair. The most noticeable signs of this condition are the overheating and low coolant level of the engine. Should you continue to drive your automobile with a leaking radiator, you will soon smell a burning coolant underneath the hood of your car. Also, you will see a slimy puddle dripping from your vehicle. This is just the anti-freeze coolant that is dripping from the defective radiator. Fixing it is a simple process that you can do all on your own, if you know some basic skills in car mechanics.

Depending on your car model, you will see whether the radiator is made from aluminum or copper. If you know the functionality and location of a radiator, then you have no trouble fixing it immediately. Many people prefer to use duct tape and ground black pepper for temporary repair. You may also opt for a radiator leak sealant that is particularly meant for repairing a leaky radiator. Follow these easy steps to fix it right away:

• The first thing you should do is to find the exact leaky spot. Look for a puddle or a hole in the radiator. A simple solution is to wash the radiator and the hose with water to be able to find the leakage. You may also put the radiator inside a tub filled with water and check for any air bubbles getting out from the car radiator.
• Next, you will need to patch up the leakage. If the leak is found in the hose pipe, a duct tape is a good approach to fix the condition. In case the leakage is within the radiator itself, then work with a radiator leak sealant, according to the instructions given in the kit. If you opt to use pepper powder, pour 1 to 2 teaspoons of it in the radiator. Pepper powder is an effective sealant that instantly lodges in the leakage. The pepper swells up once it comes in contact with water, therefore repairing the leak efficiently.
• After you have used the pepper powder or the radiator sealant, increase coolant to the right level. Next, close the radiator cap and inspect once again for any leaks. If you find any, carry on with the steps that are mentioned above again, until there are no indications of leakage anymore.

However, keep in mind that these are just temporary solutions, and you will want to get in touch with a professional auto mechanic as soon as you possibly can.

Coomon Brake Problems

Brakes are one of the most popular DIY repairs. If your car is having braking problems, whether it’s weak brakes, a mushy pedal, grinding sounds, or a squealing noise, it needs to be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. Waiting will only lead to more expensive parts wearing out and requiring replacement.

Here’s a quick review of some of the more common brake problems and troubleshooting tips you may find helpful:

Squeals

Commonly caused by vibrations between the disc pads and caliper, which can be cured by resurfacing or replacing the rotors, installing new pads and pad shims, or applying brake grease or noise compound to the backs of the pads.

Car Pulls to One Side During Braking

This can be caused by a sticking brake caliper or plugged rubber brake hose. Try to determined which brakes are dragging and check for sticking caliper first. You will also notice the pads on one side of the car may be worn more than the other.

Brakes are Slack

You are applying pressure to the brakes and very little is happening. Most likely this is because the cable has not been properly tensioned. It could also be however that the cable is slipping through any fixing bolts on the caliper arm and the bolt will need to be tightened.

Loss of Brake Pedal

This condition is usually a result of brake fluid leakage due to failure of a brake hose or a rusted metal brake line, a worn wheel cylinder or brake caliper, or a worn master cylinder. A simple "once over" of the system will reveal what's going on.

Soft Brake Pedal

When it does, it can leak brake fluid, causing a drop in hydraulic pressure to the brakes. A soft brake pedal is the result of a loss of hydraulic pressure. You should have your vehicle seen by a mechanic immediately if your master cylinder is worn out or leaking.

Why is My Car Making a Squeaking Noise?

Fixing a car is much easier when you know what the problem is. Your car produces a lot of different noises. While some are completely normal, others signify that a bigger problem might be present. Here's a quick guide to the sounds your car might be making and what they mean.

Sputtering
When your car loses power and has discolored white or black smoke, you may have major issues. Anything from ignition control modules to head gaskets can be at fault.

Whining
A constant whine when the car is in motion could indicate worn gears in the driveline, usually in the differential. It could also mean the differential fluid needs to be replaced.

Clunking
Clunking noises when you?re braking is usually a sign that a brake caliper is damaged, missing or not mounted properly.

Creaking
If your car is making a creaking noise when you turn the steering wheel it could just be an issue with your power steering. Pay attention to where the noise is coming from, because if it is coming from under the hood it could also be a problem with your car?s struts.

Hissing
A hissing noise while idle can mean that one of your hoses is cracked or has come loose. You should have your vehicle serviced immediately if you notice this noise accompanied by steam from under your hood.