DIY Smart Car

You have a “smart” phone, a “smart” home system, and multiple “smart” electronic products designed to create environmentally friendly alternatives to their counterparts. While you could invest in the Smart car brand, with a few small changes you could also make the car you drive smarter. Here are a few quick tips.

Switch To An OBD2 Catalytic Converter

OBD2 catalytic converters are fitted to exhaust systems and are designed to significantly reduce your vehicle emissions. Not all cars come standard with these advanced converters, but with an investment of $250 to $500 dollars, you can upgrade your converter. Before you make the investment, inquire about whether or not your car came standard with a low-emission converter. If by chance you purchased your car in NY or CA in the past few years, it is likely to already have the upgrade.

Invest In A Smart Port

Did you know that your car has an onboard diagnostic (OBD) port? This is how testing centers verify your emission levels. It’s okay if you didn’t know this port (aka. dongle) was there, as it is only used by mechanics or emissions testing professionals—that is until now. Modern OBD systems are designed to deliver far more information than your emissions data. Based on the same theory as the “smart” home, you can invest in a dongle designed to record data that can help you become a “smarter” driver.
 
Some of these tools are Bluetooth enabled, and will alert you while on the road, while others are linked to an app that will create a driving report of sorts. Every dongle captures different data, but some of the smart driving data they share includes:

Whether or not you are wasting gas by braking or accelerating too fast
Precise calculation of your fuel efficiency
Emission levels
Calculates fuel costs
Kilometers per trip, hours on the road, and other driving data
On-demand roadside assistance after an accident
Driving patterns and habits

Even if your car is older and does not have a dongle, you can easily upgrade to a car-specific or universal OEM grade catalytic converter.

Source:http://www.mufflerexpress.com/muffler-industry-blog/116-diy-smart-car.html

Fuel Efficiency Tips For Rideshare And Uber Drivers

Rideshare programs are an excellent way to earn some cash in your spare time. You don’t even have to commit to a set schedule, just drive as many or as few trips as you like each week. In order to maximize your earnings, you need to ensure that you are getting the best fuel efficiency possible. The tips below will help.

Tire Pressure

Most drivers are driving on low tire pressure, which can decrease fuel efficiency by as much as 3%. Most fuel stations have free air and gauges for you to check your psi. If you’re not sure of your psi, check your owner’s manual.

Acceleration, Stopping And Starting

It might be fun to accelerate with speed, and you might not think much about the speed at which you decelerate or stop, but the faster you do either, the more fuel you burn. Smooth things out, and save some fuel.

Don’t Skip Your Oil Changes And Tune Ups

Now that you are an Uber or rideshare driver, you will need to keep a closer eye on your mileage so that you can go in for your oil change in a timely manner. If you are driving 50+ miles a day, your mechanic may also suggest upgrading your oil—or coming in for more frequent oil changes. It’s worth it though, as it will improve your fuel efficiency by 1 to 2 percent. Tune-ups ensure that your engine and systems are working at optimal levels. Without timely tune-ups, your fuel efficiency can decrease by 4 to as much as 40 percent.
 
Upgrade Your Catalytic Converter

A CARB approved catalytic converter isn’t’ just good for the environment, but speed the air/fuel charge—which can decrease efficiency by as much as 4%.

These tips are great for Uber drivers and everyday drivers alike. Order your new catalytic converter from Muffler Express now!

Source:http://www.mufflerexpress.com/muffler-industry-blog/115-fuel-efficiency-tips-for-rideshare-and-uber-drivers.html

Protecting Your Family From Accidental Carbon Dioxide Poisoning

There are close to 400 accidental CO deaths each year in Canada, most of which are easily avoidable. Below are a few tips you can turn to, to lessen the likelihood of accidental CO poisoning.

Sources Of Carbon Dioxide In Your Home

Each home and business is different, but all have at least a few sources of carbon dioxide. Some of the most common home sources include:

Home furnace
Space heater
Decorative fireplace
Wood stove
Kitchen stove or grill
Gas/charcoal barbeque
Hot water heater
Automobile
Lawnmower

These are not all of the potential sources of CO poisoning, but they are the most common. Take a few minutes to walk through the interior and exterior of your home to identify all of your CO sources.

 
Invest In A CO Detector

CO detectors are now required in all Toronto sleeping areas. CO detectors are inexpensive, and range between $26 to $100 each. While there are some combination smoke and CO detectors on the market, not all are one in the same. Just like smoke detectors, you must change the batteries and test your CO detector no less than once every 3 months. If it helps, set an electronic reminder every few months. 

CO Poisoning And Your Vehicle

Your car produces toxic emissions that contain carbon monoxide. CARB approved catalytic converters are designed to reduce these emissions, but they do not eliminate the CO. Your muffler helps to direct emissions away from your car, so that they do not pool under your car while driving or sitting idle. This is why it is essential to listen and look for any cause for concern. For example, if your exhaust is hissing or roaring, or your muffler is damaged, dragging, or detached—it is time to replace ASAP. Do not run your engine in an enclosed space, such as your garage.

Muffler Express offers wholesale catalytic converters and exhaust systems, for both standard and high performance needs. We sell our parts by make and model, ensuring that all drivers in Canada can easily find the parts they require.

Source:http://www.mufflerexpress.com/blog/114-protecting-your-family-from-accidental-carbon-dioxide-poisoning.html

What Makes OBD2 Catalytic Converters Different?

Depending on where you live, you may be required to upgrade your exhaust system to an OBD2 catalytic converter—but you might be wondering what it is that makes CA and N Y approved catalytic converters different? The information below will help you to understand the difference between factory-standard and after-market converters.

What Is A Catalytic Converter?

Catalytic converters were developed in 1975, as a method of reducing the amount of harmful vehicles emissions produced during the combustion process. As its name implies, this front portion of your exhaust system “converts” emissions into less harmful gasses.

Ceramic Honeycomb

There is a ceramic honeycomb inside of each converter, that is coated with the appropriate metal required to degrade harmful gases—and transform them into less harmful water and carbon dioxide. As we all know, carbon dioxide is a toxin, one that can be lethal if breathed within an enclosed space. This is why you have a muffler that directs the carbon dioxide behind and away from your car. If your muffler falls off, have it replaced as soon as possible—otherwise the toxic gases can pool underneath your car.

What Makes OBD2 Catalytic Converters Different?

Factory standard and high performance converters work in the same manner, but have a few key differences. OBD2 catalytic converters are a high-flow converter, typically with a larger honeycomb. The high flow and larger surface area work together to ensure that more gases are degraded—releasing less harmful gasses into the local environment.

Upgrade To High Performance—Even If You Are Not Required To Do So

While upgrading to a high performance system is sometimes required by law, you may still be interested in an upgrade—even you are not required to do so. For most, the motivation is to reduce the amount of toxins released in the local environment. This is easy to achieve with minimal investment, and simple part replacement.

At Muffler Express we offer N Y and CA legal converters for every make and model of car you require.

Summer Driving Tips – Muffler Express

An essential part of begin a responsible driver is being apprised of the risks associated with driving. With the warm summer months, come a few driving hazards that aren’t on your year-round radar. The tips below alert you to increased summer driving concerns.

Summer Weather

As much as we love the warm summer weather, it brings with it a few hazards. Sunshine is bright and sometimes blinding, so drive with sunglasses and use your built-in sun visors. Your engine is more likely to overheat in the summer, especially if your car is older—or you are driving for an extended period of time. Stop to allow your engine to cool down on particularly warm days, or when using your AC for long periods of time. Further support your engine by staying on top of scheduled maintenance such as oil changes and tune-ups, and replace any malfunctioning catalytic converters or exhausts systems.

Also take measures to keep yourself cool while driving by keeping hydrating beverages in the car, parking in the shade when possible, using a wind shield sun shade while parked, and by maintaining your car AC.

Kids Are Out Of School

Kids will be out of school by the end of June, meaning that there will be more teenage drivers on the road. Teenagers are not only inexperienced drivers, but they are often more easily distracted while driving.

Increased Tourism

The summer months are an excellent time to travel, so expect there to be more drivers on the road who are not familiar with the area. This means more abrupt stops and turns, and more distracted driving while reading maps and directions. Vacation traffic can also lead to increased congestion.
More Two-Wheeled Transportation On The Road

Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road on bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles. Since these two-wheeled means of transportation are smaller, you have to take more care that they are not in your blind spot.

Vacation Vehicles

Not only is the summer an excellent time to vacation, but to drive vacation and summer vehicles. This includes RV s that drivers only take out a few times a year. Also keep an eye out for convertibles and sports cars that stay locked up during the winter months—and are tempting to drive at high speeds in the warm weather. 

Roadwork And Construction

Summer is the perfect time to complete roadwork and construction. This means you can expect more traffic delays in your nearby construction zones. You must also drive with increased caution through your construction zones, paying special attention to temporary road signs and construction workers.

If you need to replace your car’s exhaust system to ensure safe summer driving, Muffler Express is your trusted online Canadian exhaust supplier.

Spring Cleaning And Car Maintenance

Spring is here, meaning that now is an excellent time to transition your car from winter and to get it ready for the warmer spring and summer months ahead. Car owners can perform much of their spring car care sols, but some maintenance may be faster and easier when performed by a mechanic. Below are the most important spring car care tips to consider.

Detail Cleaning

Detail cleaning often falls by the wayside during the wet winter months, making spring an excellent time for a full detail clean. Detailed cleaning may not be essential for your car’s performance, but is one of the many ways you take pride in your car. Regular detail cleaning also helps to maintain its sales value by ensuring it looks its best. While detailing, look for any dings or scratches to your windows or body that must be addressed. Also, consider any additional car accessories that will help to keep your car organized and clean. 

De-Winterize

Canadian winters can get chilly, meaning you probably took a few precautions when winterizing your car. Now it is time to switch back to standard maintenance. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Switching out your winter tires

• Switching out your winter floor mats

• Switching out any of your winter fluids

• Check windshield washers

• Remove winter gear from your trunk—salt, shovel, snow brush, lock deicer, etc. 

• Add summer emergency gear and supplies

Spring Car Care General Maintenance

Now is an excellent time to head to the shop, or for those who are mechanically inclined, to perform a full tune-up. During the tune-up, also check for any winter wear tear. A few areas to pay close attention to after the winter months include.

• Wear and tear to belts and hoses

• Corrosion to battery or spark plugs

• Make sure all lights are fully functioning

• Test the HVAC system, and make sure the AC is ready for summer

• Check the brakes, particularly brake pads, rotors, and drums

• Check the steering and suspension to make sure the shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, and all            essential components are fully functioning

• Check the wholesale exhaust systems for damage or leaks. Order any new parts in need of                replacement

Performing seasonal car care ensures that your car is properly serviced every 3 or 4 months. It is the best way to identify concerns before they grow into larger issues. As always, look, listen, and feel for any changes to your car when driving. 

Wholesale Catalytic Converters—Quality Counts

Muffler Express is committed to providing you easy access to wholesale catalytic converters and exhaust systems in Canada. All of our products are available online, and can easily be shipped nationwide. Below are just a few reasons to choose us as your automotive parts retailer.

Quality Parts

When it comes to performing the repairs on your beloved car quality counts. Whether you are an experienced mechanic, or are mechanically inclined and want to start give some of your repairs a try, you must take into consideration the quality of the parts you purchase. While price is always a driving factor, there are simply some things worth investing in. That being said, as a wholesale catalytic converter and exhaust system retailer serving Canada—we are able to offer you rock bottom prices on high quality car parts.

Car Specific Parts

Think of car parts as you would puzzle pieces. While you may be able to get the wrong piece to fit, it may not work well with the rest of the puzzle—and the same goes for car parts. When it comes to some of your more general parts (air filter, hoses, batteries, etc.) you have far more freedom and flexibility when it comes to the part you purchase. However, when it comes to buying exhaust systems, buying a part that is not designed specifically for your make and model may not work—and could negatively impact your cars performance. 

Reduce Your Vehicle Emissions

There are many reasons to upgrade your current catalytic converter, one of which is to drastically reduce your vehicle emissions. Even though we operate in Canada, our easy to install—direct fit catalytic converters come in standard grade, OEM grade, and CARB (California) / NY / IL approved catalytic converters

Not Sure What You Need? We Make It Easy!

We make shopping online fast and easy. Our simple search functions make it easy to determine which part you need. For example, if you are searching for an Acura exhaust pipe wholesaler in Canada—all you have to do is search look under our “Acura” function, then select the part you require. In the product description we detail which models and years each part is designed for. 

Last but not least, each and every one of our automotive parts is made in either Canada or the U.S.—ensuring top quality and standards. If you are looking for the best DIY exhausts systems in Canada look no further than Muffler Express!

Don’t Drive With Faulty Exhaust System: Check Mufflers, Flanges, Gaskets

The driving experience with any vehicle, even in favorable conditions, depends also upon the functioning of exhaust system but we often neglect it because it doesn’t trouble in extreme before bringing us to complete stop. I am sure that many readers of this post would have experienced the same. If you don’t want to compromise with safety and surety then make it a habit to check your vehicle’s exhaust system periodically without fail. Flex exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converters, flanges, and gaskets are the key components of exhaust system that need regular preventive check.

Symptoms Of Faulty Exhaust System:

Changing the entire exhaust system may stress you financially; so, don’t neglect the health of your vehicle’s critical component under the floor. Knowing the condition of major parts of exhaust system helps to plan the maintenance on priority basis. If you know the symptoms of faulty exhaust system, preventive maintenance becomes convenient and cost effective. Vibrations, dropped fuel efficiency, poor performance, increased noise, black exhaust gases and misfiring etc are the primary symptoms of faulty exhaust system.

Maintaining Exhaust System By Self For Longer Life:
A guided preventive check of exhaust system makes sure that you don’t miss any critical step. Here, I summarize the steps that will help you to check your exhaust system like a perfectionist.
Examine the whole exhaust assembly not sparing the starting joint at engine. Check the complete tail pipe to discover any for crack. Pay close attention at the joints connecting the manifold to cylinder and main pipe.

]Check for the burn marks around the exhaust port at cylinder head. Check the muffler; it should be free from holes, punctures and rust/dust/mud deposits. In case, you find some hole, leakage, loose fitting etc, you can repair it by self also provided you have in stock the required component and the tools. If not, contact the online warehouse distributor of exhaust pipes for quick supply because driving a vehicle with faulty exhaust system drains out your wallet secretly.  

The Role Of Catalytic Converters

With the increase in number of vehicles, each one is contributing to air pollution in its own way. Especially in large cities, the extent of pollution contributed by all the cars together can lead to serious issues. To overcome these issues, automobile companies have made certain modifications to motor engines and fuel systems. One such modification is the introduction of catalytic converters.

Catalytic converters are the key element of a vehicle’s emission control system. They are designed to convert toxic gases released from the engine such as carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds and others that result in smog to carbon dioxide and water. 

How a catalytic converter works

In the past, when catalytic converters were unavailable, harmful emissions from a motor engine straightaway passed through the exhaust tailpipe and released into the atmosphere. The catalytic converter is placed between the engine and the tailpipe. It alters the chemical structure of the emissions by rearranging the atoms from which they’re formed.

When is the time to replace it?

Catalytic converters offer better service up to 100,000 miles. But sometimes it needs to be replaced prematurely. An engine that’s consuming more oil could damage the catalytic converter before its validity. Sometimes, wrong fuel additives can also wear out the catalysts. Unlike other components of a vehicle such as brakes, mufflers or tires, they don’t require frequent replacement.

Where to buy?

Shop for NY approved catalytic converters at Catalytic Converter Canada. They are the best dealers in wholesale catalytic converters. You can also buy them from online suppliers.