2008 Isuzu Ascender: Ranked High on Safety
by Christopher Stormer
The newly-released, fuel-efficient 2008 Isuzu Ascender was recently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 25 "Midsize Affordable SUVs" in the U.S. In terms of safety features, the 2008 Ascender received the same rating as the 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer and the 2008 GMC Envoy.
U.S. News & World Report noted that the 2008 Isuzu Ascender fared well in crash tests conducted by the federal government, particularly in side-impact crashes. According to the article in U.S. News, the Ascender received five out of five stars in government crash tests (if you'd like to see for yourself, check out the Ascender's page on the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration's website for the full report) for both front and rear-seat passenger safety. One of the many reasons the Isuzu Ascender earned such a favorable rating is that side-impact airbags now come standard in the 2008 model.
The Ascender comes standard with fog lights and daytime running lights, and also includes a specialized stability control system called Stabilitrak StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control. The system combines traction control with stability control systems, as well as anti-lock brakes. Together, the three are designed to help the driver maintain directional command of the vehicle.
In addition to its active safety features, the 2008 model also has upgraded passive safety features. The 2008 Ascender offers air bags for both the driver and the front passenger, as well as standard head-curtain side-impact air bags. These air bags were options on the 2007 model. The newer Ascender also features an automatic air bag suppression system designed to deactivate the front-passenger airbag and reduce airbag-related injuries.
The Isuzu Ascender also has a body style that allows for exceptional visibility from the driver's seat. In comparison, U.S. News & World Report noted that, with regards to the 2008 Mazda CX-7, "test drivers have expressed concern, however, about impaired front visibility due to the sharp design of the CX-7's windshield."
But safety isn't the only reason to get behind the wheel of an Ascender. U.S. News & World report, in the overall impression of the 2008 Isuzu Ascender, noted that the Ascender "delivers and an outstanding warranty and smooth ride..." and also pointed out the SUV's superior towing capabilities. The 2WD model can tow, when properly equipped, up to 5,800 pounds.
In general, reviewers were impressed with the Ascender's V6 engine power and the way the SUV handles. Kelley Blue Book noted that "the Ascender feels controlled and agile." Another reviewer from Auto Media pointed out that the Ascender runs "smoothly and quietly" and "accelerates vigorously from a standstill."
According to a review in the Orlando Sentinel, the Ascender beats the Ford Explorer when off-roading. Comparing the two, the reviewer praised, "... the solid rear axle of the Ascender is a better arrangement, giving the Isuzu more agility in severe off-road traction situations." U.S. News also noted that the 2008 Ford Explorer's "heavy steering detracts from overall performance." Intellichoice has not yet rated the 2008 Isuzu Ascender, but did recognize Isuzu's entire 2006 line up as best in their class for low costs.
2008-04-24
Consumer Guide Automotive Gives Isuzu Better than Average Ratings
Consumer Guide Automotive Gives Isuzu Better than Average Ratings
by Christopher Stormer
In an article published January 26, 2008 (? Today is the 21st?), Consumer Guide Auto rated several SUVs on various features and ranked the 2008 Isuzu Ascender better than the class average in four separate categories: Acceleration, Fuel Economy, Controls, and Cargo Room.
ChrisThe September 7, 2007 review of the 2008 Isuzu Ascender by staff at Cars-dot-com praised the mid-size SUV for its standard side-impact airbags, body on frame construction, and rack-and-pinion steering. U.S. News & World Report noted, "The 2008 Isuzu Ascender base model comes with manual driver and front passenger seats, height-adjustable front headrests, a second row folding bench seat, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning with CFC-free refrigerant, manual dual-zone climate control with rear switch, and an AM/FM stereo and CD player with six speakers. Buyers who choose the Preferred Equipment Package also get an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and a cargo cover, among other conveniences."
Editors for Kelley Blue Book wrote this about the 2008 Isuzu Ascender, "Have you been itching to get a new GMC Envoy or Chevrolet TrailBlazer, but you're waiting for some big event to ensure you get the most bang for your buck? We're going to let you in on a little secret: The deal you've been waiting for is at this very moment sitting at the Isuzu dealership. It's the 2008 Ascender, a carbon copy of the GMC and Chevrolet twins, with a nearly-identicalnearly identical price tag but with an additional two years added to the powertrain warranty (seven-years/75,000 miles vs. five-years/100,000 miles). The Ascender is not available with a V8 engine, but it has the same suspension, same interior features and same seating capacity as the GMC and Chevrolet offerings. How can you go wrong?"
Kelley Blue Book isn't the only one to notice the superior warranty of the Isuzu Ascender. In a report comparing the top 25 mid-size SUVs, U.S. News & World Report pointed out that the Ascender has an "excellent warranty compared to competitors." And we're hard pressed to find an SUV that can prove otherwise. Even the popular 2008 Honda Pilot only offers a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles. The Isuzu Ascender's powertrain warranty is good for seven years or 75,000 miles. In addition to the superior powertrain warranty, the 2008 Isuzu Ascender also offers a 3-year/50,000-Mile Basic Limited Warranty with no deductible, a 6-Year/100,000-Mile Corrosion Limited Warranty, and a 7-Year/100,000-Mile Roadside Assistance package. No other SUV offers that combination of warranties to its customers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2008 Ascender five out of five stars for front- and back-seat occupant safety in side-impact crashes. The excellent rating can be attributed to the head-curtain, side-impact airbags that now come standard in the SUV. While above-average ratings from entities like the NHTSA and U.S. News & World Report are certainly something to be proud of, Isuzu is most proud of the above-average ratings it receives from the folks who drive it. With exceptional safety and performance features, considerable cargo and passenger space, and available luxury packages and accessories, the Isuzu is easy to customize for individual drivers and their needs.
by Christopher Stormer
In an article published January 26, 2008 (? Today is the 21st?), Consumer Guide Auto rated several SUVs on various features and ranked the 2008 Isuzu Ascender better than the class average in four separate categories: Acceleration, Fuel Economy, Controls, and Cargo Room.
ChrisThe September 7, 2007 review of the 2008 Isuzu Ascender by staff at Cars-dot-com praised the mid-size SUV for its standard side-impact airbags, body on frame construction, and rack-and-pinion steering. U.S. News & World Report noted, "The 2008 Isuzu Ascender base model comes with manual driver and front passenger seats, height-adjustable front headrests, a second row folding bench seat, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning with CFC-free refrigerant, manual dual-zone climate control with rear switch, and an AM/FM stereo and CD player with six speakers. Buyers who choose the Preferred Equipment Package also get an 8-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, remote keyless entry, cruise control, and a cargo cover, among other conveniences."
Editors for Kelley Blue Book wrote this about the 2008 Isuzu Ascender, "Have you been itching to get a new GMC Envoy or Chevrolet TrailBlazer, but you're waiting for some big event to ensure you get the most bang for your buck? We're going to let you in on a little secret: The deal you've been waiting for is at this very moment sitting at the Isuzu dealership. It's the 2008 Ascender, a carbon copy of the GMC and Chevrolet twins, with a nearly-identicalnearly identical price tag but with an additional two years added to the powertrain warranty (seven-years/75,000 miles vs. five-years/100,000 miles). The Ascender is not available with a V8 engine, but it has the same suspension, same interior features and same seating capacity as the GMC and Chevrolet offerings. How can you go wrong?"
Kelley Blue Book isn't the only one to notice the superior warranty of the Isuzu Ascender. In a report comparing the top 25 mid-size SUVs, U.S. News & World Report pointed out that the Ascender has an "excellent warranty compared to competitors." And we're hard pressed to find an SUV that can prove otherwise. Even the popular 2008 Honda Pilot only offers a powertrain warranty for five years or 60,000 miles. The Isuzu Ascender's powertrain warranty is good for seven years or 75,000 miles. In addition to the superior powertrain warranty, the 2008 Isuzu Ascender also offers a 3-year/50,000-Mile Basic Limited Warranty with no deductible, a 6-Year/100,000-Mile Corrosion Limited Warranty, and a 7-Year/100,000-Mile Roadside Assistance package. No other SUV offers that combination of warranties to its customers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2008 Ascender five out of five stars for front- and back-seat occupant safety in side-impact crashes. The excellent rating can be attributed to the head-curtain, side-impact airbags that now come standard in the SUV. While above-average ratings from entities like the NHTSA and U.S. News & World Report are certainly something to be proud of, Isuzu is most proud of the above-average ratings it receives from the folks who drive it. With exceptional safety and performance features, considerable cargo and passenger space, and available luxury packages and accessories, the Isuzu is easy to customize for individual drivers and their needs.
What's New with Isuzu?
What's New with Isuzu?
by Christopher Stormer
In 2006, when IntelliChoice, a California-based information company that specifically studies automobiles and the ongoing cost of vehicle ownership, recognized the 2006 Isuzu Ascender 7-Passenger, Ascender 5-Passenger, i-280 Pickup and i-350 Pickup as among the top in their class for low cost, no one at Isuzu was surprised. They were confident they were giving the public high-quality, safe vehicles at affordable prices.
The list of IntelliChoice awards went on and on. The Ascender 5-Passenger (the 4WD version) was awarded the "Smart Choice" title in five distinct categories including operating, repair costs, ownership, depreciation, and fuel economy. The 2 Wheel Drive model was named "Top Winner" in two separate categories in which it competed against utility vehicles, winning for lowest ownership costs as well as lowest fuel costs. In addition to it's wins, it was also named a "Smart Choice" with regards to low depreciation, low ownership costs, and low repair costs.
IntelliChoice, at that time, went on to recognize the Ascender 7-Passenger in several categories as well. The 4WD model was recognized for lowest repair costs, lowest maintenance and lowest operating cost while the 2WD model received kudos for lowest ownership and repair costs, lowest operating costs and lowest maintenance costs.
But it wasn't just the SUV that received accolades. Isuzu's pickup line was recognized by IntelliChoice as well. The i-280 Extended Cab LS was named a "Smart Choice" for lowest operating and repair costs, as well as lowest costs associated with maintenance and fuel. The i-280 Extended Cab S was a "Top Winner" in the compact pickup category for lowest costs associated with repair and considered a "Smart Choice" for lowest maintenance, ownership, and operating costs. It was also named a "Smart Choice" for lowest depreciation.
Why was owning an Isuzu vehicle in 2006 economically efficient? According to T. Jerry Maloney, Isuzu Motors America's president and COO, it's because the company pioneered the idea of value pricing. Isuzu doesn't see value as simply a low sticker price. They try to offer vehicles that are affordable off the lot, but that continue to be affordable every time the owner stops at a gas station or comes in for service.
So what does this company that concentrates on value have in store for 2008? More of the same... except better. The automatic transmission 2008 Ascender 5-Passenger 2WD sports a 4.2-liter DOHC Inline 6-cylinder, 285 hp starts at $22,149, a competitive price for SUVs in its category. The 4WD model starts at only $24,149. As for Isuzu's pickup line, it's offering three. The i-290 Extended Cab 2WD has a 2.9-liter Inline 4-cylinder engine, 185 hp, and is a 5-speed Manual. It starts at $14,399. The 4WD version starts at $15,488. The i-290's bigger brother, the i-370, is available in Crew or Extended Cab. The Extended Cab model starts at $19,399.
All the features that make Isuzu's vehicles valuable are still there: ample passive and active safety features, an impressive 7-year/75,000 mile roadside assistance program, and its incredible towing capacity. If you're looking for a "Smart Choice," starting with Isuzu might be just the way to go.
by Christopher Stormer
In 2006, when IntelliChoice, a California-based information company that specifically studies automobiles and the ongoing cost of vehicle ownership, recognized the 2006 Isuzu Ascender 7-Passenger, Ascender 5-Passenger, i-280 Pickup and i-350 Pickup as among the top in their class for low cost, no one at Isuzu was surprised. They were confident they were giving the public high-quality, safe vehicles at affordable prices.
The list of IntelliChoice awards went on and on. The Ascender 5-Passenger (the 4WD version) was awarded the "Smart Choice" title in five distinct categories including operating, repair costs, ownership, depreciation, and fuel economy. The 2 Wheel Drive model was named "Top Winner" in two separate categories in which it competed against utility vehicles, winning for lowest ownership costs as well as lowest fuel costs. In addition to it's wins, it was also named a "Smart Choice" with regards to low depreciation, low ownership costs, and low repair costs.
IntelliChoice, at that time, went on to recognize the Ascender 7-Passenger in several categories as well. The 4WD model was recognized for lowest repair costs, lowest maintenance and lowest operating cost while the 2WD model received kudos for lowest ownership and repair costs, lowest operating costs and lowest maintenance costs.
But it wasn't just the SUV that received accolades. Isuzu's pickup line was recognized by IntelliChoice as well. The i-280 Extended Cab LS was named a "Smart Choice" for lowest operating and repair costs, as well as lowest costs associated with maintenance and fuel. The i-280 Extended Cab S was a "Top Winner" in the compact pickup category for lowest costs associated with repair and considered a "Smart Choice" for lowest maintenance, ownership, and operating costs. It was also named a "Smart Choice" for lowest depreciation.
Why was owning an Isuzu vehicle in 2006 economically efficient? According to T. Jerry Maloney, Isuzu Motors America's president and COO, it's because the company pioneered the idea of value pricing. Isuzu doesn't see value as simply a low sticker price. They try to offer vehicles that are affordable off the lot, but that continue to be affordable every time the owner stops at a gas station or comes in for service.
So what does this company that concentrates on value have in store for 2008? More of the same... except better. The automatic transmission 2008 Ascender 5-Passenger 2WD sports a 4.2-liter DOHC Inline 6-cylinder, 285 hp starts at $22,149, a competitive price for SUVs in its category. The 4WD model starts at only $24,149. As for Isuzu's pickup line, it's offering three. The i-290 Extended Cab 2WD has a 2.9-liter Inline 4-cylinder engine, 185 hp, and is a 5-speed Manual. It starts at $14,399. The 4WD version starts at $15,488. The i-290's bigger brother, the i-370, is available in Crew or Extended Cab. The Extended Cab model starts at $19,399.
All the features that make Isuzu's vehicles valuable are still there: ample passive and active safety features, an impressive 7-year/75,000 mile roadside assistance program, and its incredible towing capacity. If you're looking for a "Smart Choice," starting with Isuzu might be just the way to go.
Why the Isuzu I-370 Crew Cab is Perfect for Families
Why the Isuzu I-370 Crew Cab is Perfect for Families
by Christopher Stormer
Hold on a second. Did I just suggest a pickup truck is "perfect" for families? Come on. Families need mini-vans and SUVs. Aren't pickup trucks designed for farmers, construction workers, and young guys who like to go off-roading? Not anymore.
What a lot of people don't know is that Isuzu's i-370 Crew Cab has all the functionality of an SUV, plus more child-friendly features than many SUVs, vans, or cars. Let's start with safety. The Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab comes standard with all of the safety features needed to keep young children safe. The popular pickup offers child seat lower- and top-tether anchor brackets to safely and easily secure child seats in the rear seat of the cab. The standard model also comes with child-safe rear side door locks to keep children from opening the doors while the vehicle is moving. Remote keyless entry/content theft-deterrent alarm system also comes standard, making entering and exiting the vehicle with children quick and safe. For older children riding in the front seat, there is also the standard automatic front-passenger airbag suppression system.
The Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab fits up to five adults comfortably as well, making it ideal for growing families. The model also comes standard with rubberized front and rear floor mats to protect the interior, and ebony-colored cloth seats that hide stains and clean easily. The tire pressure monitoring system informs the driver when pressure has suddenly begun to drop in one of the tires, helping to prevent accidents and keep occupants safe. The 3-channel, 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System and hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion power steering system also give the driver more control in difficult or changing conditions, which in turn, helps reduce the risk of accidents and injury to passengers.
The i-370 pickup also comes with a full-size spare tire and with Isuzu's comprehensive 75,000 mile/7-year Roadside Assistance Program, help is on the way with a single phone call should something unexpected happen. The vehicle also comes standard with fog lights and daytime running lights as well as a plethora of additional active and passive safety features.
Next, let's take a look at hauling. Families haul stuff. It's unavoidable. Whether it's a month's worth of groceries, camping supplies, luggage, or bicycles, families tend to take stuff with them. The i-370 Crew Cab LS offers plenty of hauling space in the cargo bed and if you live in an area where weather conditions are unpredictable, adding a hitch-mounted bike carrier or folding bed cover will keep your cargo safe and dry.
Last, let's discuss numbers. Most families try to stretch their pennies and Isuzu can help you do that. Named IntelliChoice's "Smart Choice" for it's entire 2006 line, recognized for low cost operating and maintenance, and fuel efficiency, Isuzu's are a good value. And with a sticker price of under $20,000 it's at the top of its class. So if you're in the market for the next family vehicle, don't rule out the Isuzu i-370. With multiple family-friendly features, it's worth it for mom and dad to take a test drive.
by Christopher Stormer
Hold on a second. Did I just suggest a pickup truck is "perfect" for families? Come on. Families need mini-vans and SUVs. Aren't pickup trucks designed for farmers, construction workers, and young guys who like to go off-roading? Not anymore.
What a lot of people don't know is that Isuzu's i-370 Crew Cab has all the functionality of an SUV, plus more child-friendly features than many SUVs, vans, or cars. Let's start with safety. The Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab comes standard with all of the safety features needed to keep young children safe. The popular pickup offers child seat lower- and top-tether anchor brackets to safely and easily secure child seats in the rear seat of the cab. The standard model also comes with child-safe rear side door locks to keep children from opening the doors while the vehicle is moving. Remote keyless entry/content theft-deterrent alarm system also comes standard, making entering and exiting the vehicle with children quick and safe. For older children riding in the front seat, there is also the standard automatic front-passenger airbag suppression system.
The Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab fits up to five adults comfortably as well, making it ideal for growing families. The model also comes standard with rubberized front and rear floor mats to protect the interior, and ebony-colored cloth seats that hide stains and clean easily. The tire pressure monitoring system informs the driver when pressure has suddenly begun to drop in one of the tires, helping to prevent accidents and keep occupants safe. The 3-channel, 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System and hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion power steering system also give the driver more control in difficult or changing conditions, which in turn, helps reduce the risk of accidents and injury to passengers.
The i-370 pickup also comes with a full-size spare tire and with Isuzu's comprehensive 75,000 mile/7-year Roadside Assistance Program, help is on the way with a single phone call should something unexpected happen. The vehicle also comes standard with fog lights and daytime running lights as well as a plethora of additional active and passive safety features.
Next, let's take a look at hauling. Families haul stuff. It's unavoidable. Whether it's a month's worth of groceries, camping supplies, luggage, or bicycles, families tend to take stuff with them. The i-370 Crew Cab LS offers plenty of hauling space in the cargo bed and if you live in an area where weather conditions are unpredictable, adding a hitch-mounted bike carrier or folding bed cover will keep your cargo safe and dry.
Last, let's discuss numbers. Most families try to stretch their pennies and Isuzu can help you do that. Named IntelliChoice's "Smart Choice" for it's entire 2006 line, recognized for low cost operating and maintenance, and fuel efficiency, Isuzu's are a good value. And with a sticker price of under $20,000 it's at the top of its class. So if you're in the market for the next family vehicle, don't rule out the Isuzu i-370. With multiple family-friendly features, it's worth it for mom and dad to take a test drive.
Pickup Truck Safety: Statistics You Need to Know
Pickup Truck Safety: Statistics You Need to Know
by Christopher Stormer
According to the Ohio Department of Safety, there are more than 200 deaths each year in the U.S. associated with riding in the cargo area of pickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that pickup truck occupants are three times more likely to be involved in rollover crashes than in other types of vehicles. The largest number of vehicle fatalities and injuries are caused by rollover crashes.
Are pickups simply not as safe as cars and SUVs? It turns out that the fatality rates have little to do with a pickup's design. They have more to do with the use of safety belts. While safety belt laws have consistently become more stringent in all 50 states over the past ten years, according to the NCSA, only 69% of occupants in pickups were wearing safety belts by June 2003, compared to 81% of passenger car occupants and 83% of SUV and van occupants. The Ohio Department of Public Safety reports that your chance of surviving a crash in a motor vehicle is 25 times higher if seatbelts are used.
Theories abound about the reason pickup truck occupants are less likely to practice seatbelt use, thus increasing their own risk. For many who are using their pickup trucks for work (hauling and farming), the drivers tend to drive short distances and get in and out of the vehicle often. Throughout the course of the day, putting the seatbelt on and taking it off could be considered cumbersome. Another theory is that some families, particularly living in rural areas, use their older model pickups as the vehicle used for family outings. Because many of these pickups do not have adequate room for all the passengers inside the cab, some of the passengers travel in the cargo area. While this is illegal in many states and restricted to speed conditions and age of the passengers in other states, it still happens.
Fortunately, newer model pickup trucks have been designed with passenger safety and convenience in mind. For example, the popular Isuzu i-290 offers a 3-passenger 60/40 split-bench front seat with integrated outboard head restraints and the Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab offers rear 3-point seatbelts and 3-point middle seatbelt for passenger protection. Other safety features include daytime running lights and dual stage airbags. Although finding a truck that "lasts" means it's a quality vehicle, the problem with driving older model cars is not with their performance. Safety guidelines, for the most part, have evolved more rapidly in the past ten years than in decades previous.
Consumers and the government are holding pickup manufacturers to higher safety regulations in response to the vast number of preventable fatalities. A pickup manufactured prior to 1990 will be short many of these new safety features and simply cannot protect the safety of its occupants as well as newer pickup trucks do.
If you're driving an older model pickup truck, you are urged to consider after-market upgrades to make your vehicle more safe for passengers, or to consider purchasing or leasing a newer model pickup.
by Christopher Stormer
According to the Ohio Department of Safety, there are more than 200 deaths each year in the U.S. associated with riding in the cargo area of pickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that pickup truck occupants are three times more likely to be involved in rollover crashes than in other types of vehicles. The largest number of vehicle fatalities and injuries are caused by rollover crashes.
Are pickups simply not as safe as cars and SUVs? It turns out that the fatality rates have little to do with a pickup's design. They have more to do with the use of safety belts. While safety belt laws have consistently become more stringent in all 50 states over the past ten years, according to the NCSA, only 69% of occupants in pickups were wearing safety belts by June 2003, compared to 81% of passenger car occupants and 83% of SUV and van occupants. The Ohio Department of Public Safety reports that your chance of surviving a crash in a motor vehicle is 25 times higher if seatbelts are used.
Theories abound about the reason pickup truck occupants are less likely to practice seatbelt use, thus increasing their own risk. For many who are using their pickup trucks for work (hauling and farming), the drivers tend to drive short distances and get in and out of the vehicle often. Throughout the course of the day, putting the seatbelt on and taking it off could be considered cumbersome. Another theory is that some families, particularly living in rural areas, use their older model pickups as the vehicle used for family outings. Because many of these pickups do not have adequate room for all the passengers inside the cab, some of the passengers travel in the cargo area. While this is illegal in many states and restricted to speed conditions and age of the passengers in other states, it still happens.
Fortunately, newer model pickup trucks have been designed with passenger safety and convenience in mind. For example, the popular Isuzu i-290 offers a 3-passenger 60/40 split-bench front seat with integrated outboard head restraints and the Isuzu i-370 Crew Cab offers rear 3-point seatbelts and 3-point middle seatbelt for passenger protection. Other safety features include daytime running lights and dual stage airbags. Although finding a truck that "lasts" means it's a quality vehicle, the problem with driving older model cars is not with their performance. Safety guidelines, for the most part, have evolved more rapidly in the past ten years than in decades previous.
Consumers and the government are holding pickup manufacturers to higher safety regulations in response to the vast number of preventable fatalities. A pickup manufactured prior to 1990 will be short many of these new safety features and simply cannot protect the safety of its occupants as well as newer pickup trucks do.
If you're driving an older model pickup truck, you are urged to consider after-market upgrades to make your vehicle more safe for passengers, or to consider purchasing or leasing a newer model pickup.
Pickup Trucks: How to Transport Cargo Safely
Pickup Trucks: How to Transport Cargo Safely
by Christopher Stormer
Most people who buy pickup trucks are interested in the ability to haul cargo easily. Many are farmers, construction workers, movers, or otherwise. But how many times have you been speeding down the highway or interstate only to come up on a pickup truck and realize that the driver has not properly secured the cargo he or she is carrying? Unsecured cargo has been the cause of many fatality and non-fatality accidents, and these accidents were completely preventable.
What is the best way to secure cargo in the bed of a pickup? Here are some tips.
Use a cargo net. For only $60, Isuzu sells a Bed Web Net made of a tough elastic material and designed to stretch. The mount hardware is included and installation is easy. The net keeps cargo from flying out or sliding out of the back even during hard stops or fast turns.
Buy a bed extender. Designed for the Isuzu i-370, the Bed Extender, made of steel, retails for well under $300 and gives pickup owners additional truck bed length. This particular bed extender has the ability to swing in to provide a contained cargo area as well.
Bed Covers work well too. Many pickup models also can be accessorized with bed covers that not only keep cargo inside, but help to hide it and prevent theft as well.
Cargo Sports Bags are another option. These are often used in SUVs as well and do an excellent job of keeping smaller items from rolling around or flying out of pickup truck cargo beds.
Use a safety flag or light. Laws differ by state, but many require a red cargo flag or safety light be used when transporting cargo that extends beyond the cargo bed of a pickup. For example, in the state of California, when the load on any vehicle extends at least four feet from the rear of the pickup's body, the driver must use a fluorescent orange flag, or solid red flag at least twelve inches by twelve inches at the extreme end of the load. In addition, if the vehicle is operating after dusk, there must also be two lighted red lights at the end of the load visible at minimum of 500 feet to the side and the rear of the vehicle for safety.
It's also important to keep in mind that using these precautions, as well as others will protect the cargo itself. When hauling cargo, it's important to drive more cautiously than normal and make slow, steady turns. The added weight of your load can make turning more difficult and brakes may not respond as quickly or efficiently as when driving without cargo.
Every pickup truck has cargo weight guidelines. It's extremely important to obey these guidelines. While it might not be simple to actually weigh the load you plan to haul, it is better to err on the side of caution if estimating. Hauling additional weight beyond the manufacturer's guideline can significantly increase your chance of an accident or damage to your vehicle. There is also a chance you could be ticketed by law enforcement for hauling a load heavier than your pickup is designed to carry.
by Christopher Stormer
Most people who buy pickup trucks are interested in the ability to haul cargo easily. Many are farmers, construction workers, movers, or otherwise. But how many times have you been speeding down the highway or interstate only to come up on a pickup truck and realize that the driver has not properly secured the cargo he or she is carrying? Unsecured cargo has been the cause of many fatality and non-fatality accidents, and these accidents were completely preventable.
What is the best way to secure cargo in the bed of a pickup? Here are some tips.
Use a cargo net. For only $60, Isuzu sells a Bed Web Net made of a tough elastic material and designed to stretch. The mount hardware is included and installation is easy. The net keeps cargo from flying out or sliding out of the back even during hard stops or fast turns.
Buy a bed extender. Designed for the Isuzu i-370, the Bed Extender, made of steel, retails for well under $300 and gives pickup owners additional truck bed length. This particular bed extender has the ability to swing in to provide a contained cargo area as well.
Bed Covers work well too. Many pickup models also can be accessorized with bed covers that not only keep cargo inside, but help to hide it and prevent theft as well.
Cargo Sports Bags are another option. These are often used in SUVs as well and do an excellent job of keeping smaller items from rolling around or flying out of pickup truck cargo beds.
Use a safety flag or light. Laws differ by state, but many require a red cargo flag or safety light be used when transporting cargo that extends beyond the cargo bed of a pickup. For example, in the state of California, when the load on any vehicle extends at least four feet from the rear of the pickup's body, the driver must use a fluorescent orange flag, or solid red flag at least twelve inches by twelve inches at the extreme end of the load. In addition, if the vehicle is operating after dusk, there must also be two lighted red lights at the end of the load visible at minimum of 500 feet to the side and the rear of the vehicle for safety.
It's also important to keep in mind that using these precautions, as well as others will protect the cargo itself. When hauling cargo, it's important to drive more cautiously than normal and make slow, steady turns. The added weight of your load can make turning more difficult and brakes may not respond as quickly or efficiently as when driving without cargo.
Every pickup truck has cargo weight guidelines. It's extremely important to obey these guidelines. While it might not be simple to actually weigh the load you plan to haul, it is better to err on the side of caution if estimating. Hauling additional weight beyond the manufacturer's guideline can significantly increase your chance of an accident or damage to your vehicle. There is also a chance you could be ticketed by law enforcement for hauling a load heavier than your pickup is designed to carry.
The Most Expensive SUVs To Fix After A Rear End Collision
The Most Expensive SUVs To Fix After A Rear End Collision
by Jeff Mohr
You know when I was first learning to drive, my dad would jokingly say, "back-up until it sounds expensive". Well, back in those days -the 50's and 60's - you actually could do that. You could smack into something and there would hardly be a dent or scratch in the old Chevy wagon. But don't try that today.
According to the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS), the most expensive mid size SUV that they ever had to fix after the 5 mph "rear into pole" crash test was the 2000 Isuzu Trooper. That's 5 mph folks - just above walking speed, and the vehicle sustained $3,317 damage! Part of the reason for all this damage is that the spare tire hangs on the end gate. When the vehicle encounters something like a pole or another vehicle the spare tire crushes the end gate, blows out the rear window and in some instances, pulls the side fender wells in.
Between 1999 and 2003, out of the 10 most expensive SUVs to fix from that same crash test (that we could find records on) as tested by the IIHS, 7 of them had the spare tire hanging on the end gate. Those vehicles (and the damage they sustained) included the Isuzu Trooper ($3,317), Mitsubishi Montero ($2,961), Toyota RAV4 ($2,719), Honda CR-V ($2,727), Land Rover Freelander ($2,096), Suzuki Grand Vitara XL-7 ($2,175) and the Jeep Liberty ($1,627). Brian O'Neill of the IIHS probably said it best: "SUVs may be advertised as rugged and manufacturers tell potential buyers they can drive these vehicles anywhere adventure leads them. But consumers can expect big repair bills if they're unlucky enough to bump these so-called rugged vehicles into something at slow speeds."
It's been 27 Years since the consumer has had 5 mph bumpers (1982)-now we only have 2.5 mph bumpers - and, only on passenger cars. There are NO federal bumper standards for pickup trucks, SUVs or mini vans which is one of the reasons they do so poorly. Even on the standards for passenger cars, the rules allow for unlimited damage to the bumper. According to Jeff Mohr, CEO of Mohr Mfg and the experts at superbumper.com, "the average cost to fix a full size pickup truck bumper from the 5 mph rear into pole collision is $1,618, and that's in 2004 prices. And some pickup trucks and SUVs don't even get tested because the IIHS only tests the most popular vehicles.
Now the IIHS has eliminated the rear into pole test because most automakers complained that it was not a "fair" test. But there's one heck of lot of parking lot poles out there just waiting to walk into your vehicle. The IIHS also found that some of the automakers were cheating by adding extra energy absorbing material right where the vehicle would hit the pole.
Today, the lightest tap from a vehicle can leave damage from $450 to over $2,000 damage. The average cost to repair a plastic bumper is $450 and the average cost to replace a plastic bumper is $900. And if you have a vehicle with a backup alarm you're looking at twice that amount. A backup alarm might help you from hitting something but it don't help in the rear end collision.
There are over 12 million rear-end collisions in the USA every year -both reported and unreported and over 8 million plastic bumpers are replaced each year. The rear end collision accounts for 38% of all the dollars paid for automobile claims and you can't afford to make a claim any more. The typical insurance premium will increase 40% if a claim is made.
There are thousands of tailgaters, uninsured motorists, distracted drivers, inattentive cell phone users, drivers with poor judgment, text messengers and lousy-stinking parallel parkers out there just trying to wreck your vehicle, cripple your family, steal your deductible and jeopardize your insurance. "There are products on the market today that can help you fight back says Jeff Mohr. Do your homework and start protecting your family, vehicle and insurance - you can't afford not to."
by Jeff Mohr
You know when I was first learning to drive, my dad would jokingly say, "back-up until it sounds expensive". Well, back in those days -the 50's and 60's - you actually could do that. You could smack into something and there would hardly be a dent or scratch in the old Chevy wagon. But don't try that today.
According to the Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS), the most expensive mid size SUV that they ever had to fix after the 5 mph "rear into pole" crash test was the 2000 Isuzu Trooper. That's 5 mph folks - just above walking speed, and the vehicle sustained $3,317 damage! Part of the reason for all this damage is that the spare tire hangs on the end gate. When the vehicle encounters something like a pole or another vehicle the spare tire crushes the end gate, blows out the rear window and in some instances, pulls the side fender wells in.
Between 1999 and 2003, out of the 10 most expensive SUVs to fix from that same crash test (that we could find records on) as tested by the IIHS, 7 of them had the spare tire hanging on the end gate. Those vehicles (and the damage they sustained) included the Isuzu Trooper ($3,317), Mitsubishi Montero ($2,961), Toyota RAV4 ($2,719), Honda CR-V ($2,727), Land Rover Freelander ($2,096), Suzuki Grand Vitara XL-7 ($2,175) and the Jeep Liberty ($1,627). Brian O'Neill of the IIHS probably said it best: "SUVs may be advertised as rugged and manufacturers tell potential buyers they can drive these vehicles anywhere adventure leads them. But consumers can expect big repair bills if they're unlucky enough to bump these so-called rugged vehicles into something at slow speeds."
It's been 27 Years since the consumer has had 5 mph bumpers (1982)-now we only have 2.5 mph bumpers - and, only on passenger cars. There are NO federal bumper standards for pickup trucks, SUVs or mini vans which is one of the reasons they do so poorly. Even on the standards for passenger cars, the rules allow for unlimited damage to the bumper. According to Jeff Mohr, CEO of Mohr Mfg and the experts at superbumper.com, "the average cost to fix a full size pickup truck bumper from the 5 mph rear into pole collision is $1,618, and that's in 2004 prices. And some pickup trucks and SUVs don't even get tested because the IIHS only tests the most popular vehicles.
Now the IIHS has eliminated the rear into pole test because most automakers complained that it was not a "fair" test. But there's one heck of lot of parking lot poles out there just waiting to walk into your vehicle. The IIHS also found that some of the automakers were cheating by adding extra energy absorbing material right where the vehicle would hit the pole.
Today, the lightest tap from a vehicle can leave damage from $450 to over $2,000 damage. The average cost to repair a plastic bumper is $450 and the average cost to replace a plastic bumper is $900. And if you have a vehicle with a backup alarm you're looking at twice that amount. A backup alarm might help you from hitting something but it don't help in the rear end collision.
There are over 12 million rear-end collisions in the USA every year -both reported and unreported and over 8 million plastic bumpers are replaced each year. The rear end collision accounts for 38% of all the dollars paid for automobile claims and you can't afford to make a claim any more. The typical insurance premium will increase 40% if a claim is made.
There are thousands of tailgaters, uninsured motorists, distracted drivers, inattentive cell phone users, drivers with poor judgment, text messengers and lousy-stinking parallel parkers out there just trying to wreck your vehicle, cripple your family, steal your deductible and jeopardize your insurance. "There are products on the market today that can help you fight back says Jeff Mohr. Do your homework and start protecting your family, vehicle and insurance - you can't afford not to."
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