Shopping for a New Car?

Which do you dread the most: buying a new car or visiting the dentist? For the average person, they may be equally painful. Buying a car can be very stressful and challenging; there is a lot to consider and a lot of money on the line.
“Most people say it’s like having a tooth extracted,” says John Davis, host and executive producer of MotorWeek, the critically acclaimed PBS weekly automotive magazine. “Nobody enjoys it.”
Davis and his staff want to change that. “We look at how people actually buy cars,” says Davis, whose team test drives more than 150 vehicles a year and evaluates them on handling, maneuverability, power, style and value.
The result is the annual Drivers’ Choice Awards, which are presented to the best vehicles in 13 categories including minivan, pickup truck, family SUV, convertible and eco-friendly.The Drivers’ Choice Award evaluations provide consumers with a starting point for gathering the information they need to make a good decision about a new car. Here are some tips from Davis for anyone who is venturing into the showrooms this season in search of a new vehicle:
* Do your research. “Before you go out to look, make two lists: one with everything you want in a vehicle, and one with everything that you absolutely need,” urges Davis.
He recommends getting new car magazines and brochures and checking Internet car information sites for the results of road tests. Visiting an auto show is a great opportunity for side-by-side comparisons of hundreds of vehicles at one time. Once you’ve gathered the facts about different models and prices you’ll be ready to narrow down your search.
“Make sure you are well-armed with information before you go out to look at cars,” says Davis. “A new car showroom is an enormously emotional place with a lot of pressure. You can make stupid mistakes if you aren’t prepared.”
* Spend time with a sales consultant. “Try to visit a dealer on a Tuesday or Wednesday during the day,” says Davis. “Most people go on the weekend, and sales consultants don’t have time to help everyone. This is a big decision, set aside time when you can get the help you need.
” Davis advises consumers to have the sales consultant do a thorough walk-around of the vehicle. “Gauge their attentiveness, patience and knowledge,” he adds.
* Do a thorough test drive of the exact vehicle you are thinking of buying. “This is not just a drive around the block, this should be a 30- to 40-minute process,” cautions Davis, who says a proper test includes driving on all the types of roads on which you normally drive, parking and pulling in and out of parking lots. Take note of how easy it is to get in and out of the vehicle, how you fit in the car, whether the controls are intuitive, and evaluate the visibility, power and maneuverability. “This is a huge decision, don’t rush it,” adds Davis.
* Negotiate the pure price of the car first. Find out about rebates and other deals that are there to help lower the price before you start to talk about dollars and cents.
“The biggest mistake that people make is stating what they want to spend per month before settling on a vehicle price. Worry about the overall price, not the monthly payment,” urges Davis. Negotiate what the car costs irrespective of everything else such as trade-in, rebates and other variables that can confuse the issue. “Don’t believe any deal that is only good for one day,” he adds.
* Pay attention to the warranty. “Warranties are a big part of whether you consider a vehicle to be a good buy,” explains Davis.
“There are some cars that would be considered average, but they have long warranties that make them a better deal.” Davis says that anything above a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty should be considered a plus.
Davis’ final advice for car buyers: “Just do a thorough evaluation, have patience and keep your emotions in your pockets. If you put in the effort it requires, buying a car can be a very rewarding experience.”
You can start your research by checking out MotorWeek’s picks for the 2004 Drivers’ Choice Awards.
The winners include the Volkswagen Touareg as the “Best of the Year,” the Toyota Prius as the best eco-friendly vehicle, the Honda Element as the best small SUV and the Ford F-150 as the best pickup truck. For more details and a complete list of 2004 Drivers’ Choice Award winners, .
Airing on PBS and the Speed Channel, MotorWeek covers all aspects of the automotive industry and offers consumers unbiased, cutting-edge news and features covering new vehicle trends, current safety information, and the results of practical road tests.

Money Saving Car Tips

Today with soaring gas prices it's more important than ever to pay attention to the little things that can help your car to run more efficiently, hence saving you money.
You can turn this into a win-win situation for you and for your car.
The first tip to saving money on your car is keeping it's engine properly tuned up.
A car engine that isn't running efficiently can use up to 30ore fuel than a car engine that is properly tuned.

Follow your car manufacturers guidelines for servicing your car.
Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Tires that are under inflated will cause you to burn more gasoline. Make sure that your tires are kept in alignment. This will help you car to handle better also.
Avoid running the engine unnecessarily. The cars of today don't need to be warmed up in the morning like the cars our parents used to drive. Get in, turn it on, and go. If you are going to be waiting for someone, or sitting in your car turn it off.
Drive 55 mph and not 70 mph.
Driving the posted speed limit can help you save up to 15ore fuel. That's a nice saving! Also, use your cruise control when you can. This keeps your speed steady. Avoid sudden and extreme accelerations. These use fuel needlessly.
The next time you go on your errands see if you can run them more efficiently. Pick up your dry cleaning and your prescription at the same time. Don't double back from store to store, it's a real waste of gasoline, and time.
If you don't have to be out in peak traffic times, don't.
Wait until the traffic thins before running errands, this way you won't be waiting in long lines to get through the lights.
Set up a car pool to help usher the kids to and from school and sporting events. Perhaps you can take Billy home this week and Billy's mom can drop your son off next week.
How about a car pool for work? We're living in a time where people live farther from work than ever before. With the price of gas a work car pool makes more sense than ever

Renting a Car?

If you're traveling by plane in the coming months, chances are you’ll be renting a car when you land. Driving an unfamiliar vehicle in an unfamiliar city can be stressful. But with a little foresight, you can be prepared and relaxed.
Before You Go
Your safety preparations should begin when making your rental reservations. While you want to get a good deal, you also want a good car.
Web sites such as that operated by Consumer Reports can provide information on car safety ratings. “Your insurance company may also have safety statistics on various makes and models,” says Jeff Beyer, senior vice president and chief communications officer of Farmers insurance.
Rent a car that is suited to your needs. If you are traveling with a family of four and lots of luggage, a compact car may not have enough room. Also, make any special requests when you arrange your reservation.
For example, if you know you will need a child’s car seat for your two-year-old, be sure to reserve one early -- don’t expect one to be available on the spur of the moment when you arrive to pick up your car.
“You’ll also want to check with your insurance company to find out how your coverage works for rented cars,” says Beyer.
Find out if your insurance will cover service calls on rental cars, and ask your agent if you will need to buy any supplemental insurance from the car rental company.
“By doing a little research before you leave on your trip, you may be able to save money by not purchasing unnecessary and overly expensive insurance through the car rental company,” he adds. Some credit cards also provide supplementary insurance if you use them to pay for the car rental. Check with your credit card company for specifics.
When You Pick Up Your Car
Check the contract to make sure you’re getting the rate and the car you were promised when you made the reservation.
Ask the agent what to do if the car breaks down. If you’re not sure how to get to your destination, request a map and driving directions from the agent.
Once at the car, do a quick check for any damage; if you spot anything significant, call it to the attention of the rental company before you take the car off the lot, so you won’t be penalized for damage you didn’t cause.
Before You Leave the Lot
Familiarize yourself with the car: be sure you know how to work the headlights, turn signals and interior lights. Check the windshield wipers to make sure they work and that there is washer fluid; you don’t want to get caught in rain or snow with bad wipers.
Adjust the seat and mirrors.
Check the seatbelts; is there one for every passenger? Are they easy to latch and unlatch? If you like to listen to the radio as you drive, tune in a local station that meets your tastes before you hit the road.
Enjoy Your Visit
Because rental cars are attractive targets for thieves, remove all valuables from the car when it is parked, if possible. If you have to leave your luggage or other property in the car, lock it in the trunk, out of sight.
By planning ahead and taking a few easy precautions, renting a car will be easy. Now if you can just fit all those gifts into your luggage for the return trip home. by: ARA Content

scrub car fun

Simple Car Maintenance Tips

You drive your car everyday. Do you pay attention to it? Do you feel that slight shimmy in the front end? Is there a new knocking sound under the hood? Is there a rattle in the dashboard? No one knows your car better than you do. If you feel something different, or if it isn't handling correctly take it to your mechanic.

It could be something as simple as a tire out of alignment, or perhaps a loose belt. It's always best to find any small problem before it becomes a large one.
Here are some simple maintenance tips that you can follow to help prolong the life of your car, and help save you money.
Notice where you park your car and get into the habit of looking to see if there are any leaks when you pull out.

This can be very tricky in a public garage with lots of stains from leaks from other cars, but if your car is leaking any type of fluid, transmission, radiator or brake the leak will look "fresh". If you see any fluid leaking have your car serviced as soon as possible.
Keep an eye on your tires. When you have your oil changed every 3,000 miles have your tires rotated. At this time the technician will inspect your tires for any wear. Keep your tires aligned. Check your tire pressure once every month. It's easy enough to read tire gauges and they even have electronic ones.

Keeping your tires properly inflated helps increase gas mileage too.
As mentioned above, change your oil at least every 3,000 miles. The oil is the life blood of your car and keeping fresh oil in your car can extends it's life by many, many miles.

At this time the technician will check your air filter, hoses and belts.
Keep your windshield washer reservoir full and carry an extra gallon with you. You don't want to be caught without washer fluid, and you don't realize how quickly you use it up, especially in the winter months when we get salt spray on the windshield. Replace your wiper blades once a year.
Following these simples steps can go a long way in prolonging the life of your car.by: Simon Harris

tips to improve your gas mileage

With gas prices seemingly out of control it’s more important than ever to learn how to improve gas mileage in your vehicles.
There are many simple steps you can take that are free or low cost that at first glance seem silly or even obvious but you would be surprised how many people fail to do them or ignore the warning signs their car is giving them.
Here are some quick tips that you may have missed or forgotten about.
Not any single tip will make that big of a difference in increasing your gas mileage but I am a firm believer that every little thing you can do really does add up to getting better gas mileage and helping the environment in the process.
Simple Mileage Improvement Tips:
Use a sunshade to keep your car cool and avoid the use of your air conditioner as much as possible.
Park your car in the shade when it's sunny and warm to keep your car’s interior cooler.
Make sure that your parking brake is fully released before you start driving.
Avoid drive-thru lines at restaurants.
Park your car and go inside and order your food as many times it’s a lot quicker anyway. I always laugh to myself as I’m eating while I watch people sitting in their cars still waiting for their food. Just think of how much gas is wasted in those lines!
Use a block heater in winter to pre-warm your car engine.
Don't ride the brake. Not only will this save gas but will greatly extend the life of your brake pads.
Drive with a smooth, constant speed and avoid “flooring it” when the stoplight turns green.
Maintain the transmission fluid in your car at the proper level for efficient gear shifting.
If there is smoke is coming from your tailpipe make sure that you make an appointment with your mechanic.
Make sure that your cooling system thermostat in your car is working properly.
Avoid air conditioning leaks by constant checkups with your mechanic. FYI - Pre-1994 vehicles use CFCs for cooling.
Immediately fix a slipping transmission.
When you rev up your vehicle's engine it wastes gas. Avoid revving your engine before your turn it off as it really serves no purpose.
If you can’t find a place to buy cheap gas on one day wait if you can until a few days later since the price of gas is constantly changing.
Where I live you can almost predict which days prices will rise or fall. Start watching prices in your area to see if you can pick up on any patterns.
Buy your gas at the wholesale clubs, like Costco. You can often save over 10 cents a gallon or more. If you don't like the wholesale clubs get a gas credit card from a major oil company. You'll get a 1% to 5% discount when you buy your gas at their stations. by: Mike Taylor

Shopping for a New Car?

You’ve just returned from the dealership where the salesman said he’d be willing to take $250 above invoice on the new Toyota Camry SE you are interested in.
You are scratching your head and wondering … is this a good deal? Looking at the vehicle’s manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) or invoice price used to be the best way to figure out what you should pay for a new car, but that is no longer enough.
According to a 2002 J.D. Power and Associates New
AutoShopper.com Study, a transaction or typical sale price for a new vehicle is one of the most sought after pieces of information by automotive Internet shoppers researching new cars, but one of the hardest items to find.
While most folks think of Kelley Blue Book for used car values, a new, free, online service from the company, New Car Blue Book Value, enables car-buyers to know how much a specific make and model is actually selling for during that week.
New Car Blue Book Value has three unique features:
1. Single Price: This is the typical price a consumer has paid for that car.
While you can look to this number as a guide, not every car will sell for the exact same price. This is the typical price consumers are paying for a given car.
2. Range: Showing the high and low ends of what people have paid for the same car.
The range offers a little perspective on the market for a vehicle. Since every car does not sell for the exact same price, Kelley Blue Book offers a range, which in many cases is just a few hundred dollars. As we all know, you could go to the same dealer in the morning and in the evening and pay two different prices for the same car! If the dealer offers a price within the range, you’ll know exactly how that matches up to what others have paid based on where that price falls within the range and whether or not you are paying what others are paying.
3. Market Conditions: An explanation for why that vehicle is selling at the price reported.
Some manufacturers limit the production of a vehicle, in which case consumers are willing to pay well above MSRP for that vehicle, like the early days of the MINI Cooper. Other vehicles are being replaced by all new remodeled versions making last year’s body style a great buy, at or below invoice (like the Lexus RX 300 being replaced by the RX 330 or the newly remodeled Jaguar). These are conditions that affect the selling price of the car. Kelley has included these conditions to educate you as to why a car is selling at the price it is before heading down to the dealership. Having this information should take much of the confusion out of the buying process.
Kelley Blue Book obtains tens of thousands of actual transactions from dealers nationwide each week to provide the New Car Blue Book service.
According to the company’s executive editor, Charlie Vogelheim, the New Car Blue Book Value, which is updated weekly, is not a number influenced by dealers or manufacturers --
it is reported based on real transaction data showing what people actually pay for specific makes and models. Vogelheim says Kelley Blue Book is committed to ‘reporting’ vehicle values in the marketplace, not ‘setting’ them. by: ARA

Advice and Tips to Be Used when Parking

You are a driver so you know that incidents may happen not just on the road, but also in parking lots. Most of the incidents caused by violent drivers are taking place in suburban parking lots. In order to avoid getting caught in a violent parking lot incident.

you should keep in mind some tips:
- Use common courtesy in your actions to prevent behaviour that may disturb other drivers.
- Retain yourself from acting aggressively towards other drivers by controlling your stress level.
- Stay calm and keep your cool whenever you are involved in a parking incident. Always take into consideration the possible outcome of your behaviour.
- Try to let pedestrians cross the street in front of your car as often as possible. Remember that you are sitting comfortable in your car while they may be walking in snow, rain or hot sun. According to parking services regulations, pedestrians are always having the right of way. And always be careful at small children. They can jump in front of your car at any moment.
- Signal whenever you want to turn, even if you are driving slowly. Driving in a parking lot doesn’t mean you have to ignore driving regulations.
- Occupy only one parking space.
- Respect parking services requirements and don’t use a parking space for a disabled person if you are not disabled. Common sense should also stop you from acting in this manner.
- Most parking lots have drop-off zones and no-standing areas. Don’t park in these places as you will be causing activity blockage in that area.
- Don’t steal other drivers’ parking spaces. This action is the cause of the majority of aggressive incidents that occur in parking lots.
- Try not to use any obscene gestures as they will definitely offend other drivers. Try not to keep in mind that the other drivers might misinterpret your gestures, so don’t use any irritating moves.
- Don’t use your car phone while parking your car. A parking services statistics stated that fender-benders caused by drivers talking on the phone while parking their cars is the second most common cause for violent incidents.
- Avoid eye contact as much as possible if another driver is looking for a fight. Get out of there ignoring his/her aggressive behaviour. If the violent driver is following you, go to the nearest police station to let the officers know what is happening.
- And always remember that if everyone would be using their common sense, there won’t be so many violent incidents in parking lots. Therefore, don’t forget to be polite and considerate! by: Ispas Marin

Honda Accord EX V-6 2000-2002 Specs

2000 Honda Accord EX V-6
The optional Leather Interior Package includes dual side air bags, an eight-way power driver's seat and leather seats, door panels and steering wheel.

Standard equipment exclusive to the EX V-6 includes steering wheel mounted radio controls, a HomeLink Universal Transmitter and leather trim seats. Available options on all models include audio trim panels, splash guards, fog lights and rear spoiler.
2001 Honda Accord EX V-6
The Accord Coupe is available in two trim lines: LX and EX. The four-cylinder models are available with either a manual or automatic transmission, while the six-cylinder models require the automatic.

The EX features the Leather interior package with upgrades such as leather bucket seats, an eight-way power driver seat, and steering wheel radio controls. All Accord Coupes have received a newly redesigned front and rear bumper, a body-colored front grille, and new wheel designs.

In addition to standard features such as a power moonroof and aluminum alloy wheels, the EX coupes now include a six-disc in-dash CD changer. A single disc CD player is now standard on the LX coupes and six-cylinder Accords feature Honda's TCS traction control system.
2002 Honda Accord EX V-6
New for this year, Honda offers an Accord Coupe Special Edition (SE). The SE is based on the LX Coupe with an automatic transmission. SE equipment includes alloy wheels, a power moonroof, a security system, and an AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player. Interior enhancements include silver-accented trim, floor mats, and a driver's seat power height adjustment.

All Accord coupes come equipped with cruise control, tilt-steering, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, and power windows, mirrors, and door locks.

EX trim upgrades include a driver's seat lumbar support, a six-disc CD changer, steering wheel audio controls, and 15-inch alloy wheels. The EX V6 comes equipped with a 200-hp 3.0L V6 engine, leather seating, and 16-inch wheels and tires.
Honda Accord EX V-6 2000-2002 Specifications & Dimensions
Engine Type: 3.0L VTEC
Horsepower: 200 @ 5500 rpm
Torque: 195 @ 4700 rpm
Cylinder Number: 6
Curb Weight: 3283 lbs
Factory Rim Size: 16"
Seating Capacity: 5/5
Gas Mileage: 20 City / 28 Highway

Toyota Celica GTS 2000-2004 Specs

2000 Toyota Celica GTS
The sportier GT-S is powered by a 1.8L four-cylinder engine which generates 180 horsepower and 133 lbs./ft. of torque. It features Variable Valve Timing and Lift with intelligence control (VVTL-i) to improve output and fuel efficiency.

Available options include side impact airbags, leather interior, sunroof, rear spoiler, alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes and a premium 3-in-1 combo stereo/CD/cassette sound system. An All-Weather Package is also available.



2001 Toyota Celica GTS
The Toyota Celica returns unchanged for the 2001 model year. Available in two models, GT and GT-S, the Celica features a 1.8L four-cylinder engine, which generates 180 horsepower in the sportier GT-S trim. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the GT, while a six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GT-S. Both models offer an optional four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. GT-S models equipped with the automatic transmission feature Sportshift, which allows the driver to select gears with either the index finger or thumb. Optional features for the GT-S include leather interior and a unique rear spoiler.
Anti-lock brakes, side impact airbags, alloy wheels, and a sunroof are available for both models.
2002 Toyota Celica GTS
The Celica returns for the new model year with only minor detail changes. The front grille opening now has a new mesh screen design. Available models continue as GT and GTS. The GT features a 140-hp four-cylinder engine, while the GTS boasts a 180-hp four-cylinder with a standard six-speed manual transmission.
An electronically controlled four-speed automatic is optional on both models.
The Action Package, available on both models, includes a sport front bumper, rocker panels, aero rear bumper, and a rear wing. A leather interior and 17-inch alloy wheels are GTS-exclusive options. A four-wheel anti-lock braking system continues to be an extra-cost option on both GT and GTS models, as does side-impact airbags.
2003 Toyota Celica GTS
The 2003 Celica receives minor cosmetic updates from the 2002 model. The exterior revisions include a new front bumper with a wider upper intake nestled in the front fascia, newly-available high intensity discharge headlights, and redesigned rear lights.
The interior also is redesigned for the center dash cluster, a reshaped LCD combination meter, and chrome trimmings. The premium sound system, optional on the GT model, is upgraded to a JBL premium 3-in-1 sounds system, which includes a power antenna. Also new for 2003 are exterior colors Solar Yellow and Zephyr Blue Metallic. Under the hood, the 1.8L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 140-hp (GT model) and 180-hp (GTS model) engines remain unchanged, along with the transmission and suspension.
2004 Toyota Celica GTS
For 2004 the Celica is available in two trims - GT and GTS. Both are available with the Action Package (aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, rocker panels, and rear spoiler) and either a manual or automatic.
The GT model features air conditioning, tilt steering, disc/drum brakes and 140 hp engine.
The sportier GTS model upgrades the GT with a 180 hp engine and six-speed manual transmission, 16? alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, power windows/locks, and cruise control. Options on both trims include high intensity discharge headlamps, power tilt/slide moonroof, and side impact air bags. Leather seating is available exclusively on the GTS. Accessories available on the Celica include OBX Racing Sports pedals and shifter.
Toyota Celica GTS 2000-2004 Specifications & Dimensions
Engine Type: 1.8L
Horsepower: 180 @ 7600 rpm
Torque: 130 @ 6800 rpm
Cylinder Number: 4
Curb Weight: 2500 lbs
Factory Rim Size: 15"
Seating Capacity: 4/4
Gas Mileage: 23 City / 32 Highway

Toyota Celica GT 2000-2004 Specs

2000 Toyota Celica GT
The sportier GT-S is powered by a 1.8L four-cylinder engine which generates 180 horsepower and 133 lbs./ft. of torque. It features Variable Valve Timing and Lift with intelligence control (VVTL-i) to improve output and fuel efficiency.

Available options include side impact airbags, leather interior, sunroof, rear spoiler, alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes and a premium 3-in-1 combo stereo/CD/cassette sound system. An All-Weather Package is also available.

2001 Toyota Celica GT
The Toyota Celica returns unchanged for the 2001 model year.

Available in two models, GT and GT-S, the Celica features a 1.8L four-cylinder engine, which generates 180 horsepower in the sportier GT-S trim. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the GT, while a six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GT-S. Both models offer an optional four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. GT-S models equipped with the automatic transmission feature Sportshift, which allows the driver to select gears with either the index finger or thumb. Optional features for the GT-S include leather interior and a unique rear spoiler.

Anti-lock brakes, side impact airbags, alloy wheels, and a sunroof are available for both models.
2002-2003 Toyota Celica GT
The 2003 Celica receives minor cosmetic updates from the 2002 model. The exterior revisions include a new front bumper with a wider upper intake nestled in the front fascia, newly-available high intensity discharge headlights, and redesigned rear lights. The interior also is redesigned for the center dash cluster, a reshaped LCD combination meter, and chrome trimmings.

The premium sound system, optional on the GT model, is upgraded to a JBL premium 3-in-1 sounds system, which includes a power antenna.

Also new for 2003 are exterior colors Solar Yellow and Zephyr Blue Metallic. Under the hood, the 1.8L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder 140-hp (GT model) and 180-hp (GTS model) engines remain unchanged, along with the transmission and suspension.
2004 Toyota Celica GT
For 2004 the Celica is available in two trims - GT and GTS. Both are available with the Action Package (aggressively styled front and rear bumpers, rocker panels, and rear spoiler) and either a manual or automatic.

The GT model features air conditioning, tilt steering, disc/drum brakes and 140 hp engine. The sportier GTS model upgrades the GT with a 180 hp engine and six-speed manual transmission, 16" alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, power windows/locks, and cruise control.

Options on both trims include high intensity discharge headlamps, power tilt/slide moonroof, and side impact air bags. Leather seating is available exclusively on the GTS. Accessories available on the Celica include OBX Racing Sports pedals and shifter.
Toyota Celica GT 2000-2004 Specifications & Dimensions
Engine Type: 1.8L
Horsepower: 140 @ 6400 rpm
Torque: 125 @ 4200 rpm
Cylinder Number: 4
Curb Weight: 2425 lbs
Factory Rim Size: 15"
Seating Capacity: 4/4
Gas Mileage: 27 City / 33 Highway

2003-2004 Toyota Matrix XR Specs

The automatic transmission is standard on 4WD models.
The XRS is equipped with a four-cylinder engine boasting 180 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission. For additional safety, front seat-mounted side impact airbags (SRS) and an anti-lock braking system (ABS) are available.
The optional Sport Package includes 16-inch aluminum wheels with P205/55R16 tires and sunroof and is available on XR models. The Matrix has a luggage capacity of 53.2 cubic feet with the rear seats down.
2004 Toyota Matrix XR
The 2004 Matrix Cross Over Utility Vehicle (CUV) is available in three trim levels: Base, XR, and XRS with 2WD and AWD configurations. The AWD is offered on the Base and XR. Built on the Corolla platform and unchanged from it's introduction in 2003 the Matrix is powered by a 130 hp four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
The automatic transmission is standard on AWD models.
The XRS is equipped with a four-cylinder engine boasting 180 hp engine and a six-speed manual transmission. For additional safety, front seat-mounted side impact airbags (SRS) and an anti-lock braking system (ABS) are available options.
An optional Sport Package includes 16-inch aluminum wheels with P205/55R16 tires, sunroof, and is only available on the XR.
2003-2004 Toyota Matrix XR Specifications & Dimensions
Engine Type: 1.8L
Horsepower: 130 @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 125 @ 4200 rpm
Cylinder Number: 4
Curb Weight: 2701 lbs
Factory Rim Size: 16"
Seating Capacity: 5/5
Gas Mileage: 29 City / 36 Highway

Basic Parts of your Engine

Your engine provides the power that drive the wheels of your car. Your engine is considered an internal combustion engine because this power is produced inside the engine. When a mixture of air and fuel is burned, this is called combustion.
Your engine has to be robust enough to handle the enormous amount of pressure and heat created during combustion. Your engine has a few basic parts. Let's take a look at them:
Cylinder Block
The largest part of your engine is called the engine block or cylinder block. The engine block is a large casting of cast iron or aluminum.
It is drilled with holes in order to allow coolants, lubricants and mechanical parts, like cylinders, to pass though and within. A cylinder is round cylindrical passageway which contains a piston. It resembles the inside of a smooth soup can.
Cylinder Head
The cylinder head sit on top of the engine block or cylinder block in order to close off and seal the top of the cylinders. The area where the air and fuel mixture is burned is called the combustion chamber.
The cylinder head contains all or most of these chambers. Your cylinder head contains ports. Ports are passageways which allow the air and fuel mixture to enter and allow the burned mixture to exit. In other words, intake ports and exhaust ports.
The cylinder head is also a large casting of cast iron or aluminum.
Piston
The piston resembles the outside of a smooth soup can and fits inside a cylinder. The air and fuel mixture is burned between the cylinder head and the top of the piston. See 'Four Stroke Engine Cycle' below this article.
Connecting Rods and Crankshaft
The top of the connecting rod is connected to the bottom of the piston. The the bottom of the connecting rod is connect to the crankshaft. When the power stroke occurs between the cylinder head and the top of the piston, it causes the piston to move up and down.
As the piston move down, the connecting rod pushes the crankshaft which make it rotate. The crankshaft turns the transmission, which powers the drive train and wheels. The drivetrain is composed of all components that transfer power from the engine to the driving wheels of the car.
Valve Train
A valve train is compose of all components used to used to open the intake and exhaust ports. A valve opens and closes a passageway.
The camshaft controls the valve movement. The valves are closed by springs.
Manifolds
A manifold is a metallic assembly of ducts that direct gases into or out of the combustion chamber.
The intake manifold directs the air and fuel mixture into the intake ports. The exhaust manifold directs the burned air and fuel mixture away from the cylinder.

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