CarZ ties up with global paint major AkzoNobel to provide world class paints to car owners

CarZ, a multi-brand auto solutions network, has partnered with the paints and specialty chemicals world leader AkzoNobel for their full body painting requirements. AkzoNobel, with over 100 years of experience in paint technologies, has stocks and support for various tints and shades for all makes and models of cars as per the OEM colour specifications. It will provide services, training and support to CarZ, to ensure that every customer is satisfied with the quality of the paint job, the colour matching and the finish, while ensuring a faster turnaround.

About AkzoNobel

AkzoNobel is the largest global paints and Coatings Company and a major producer of specialty chemicals. We supply industries and consumers worldwide with innovative products and are passionate about developing sustainable answers for our customers. Our portfolio includes well known brands such as Dulux, Sikkens, International and Eka. Headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, we are a Global Fortune 500 company and are consistently ranked as one of the leaders on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes. With operations in more than 80 countries, our 55,000 people around the world are committed to excellence and delivering Tomorrow’s Answers Today™

About CarZ

CarZ was founded in 2008 by Venu Donepudi and Vijay Gummadi both auto experts with extensive experience in the North American Auto industry. Considering that dealerships and unorganized garages were the only two car service options in India at the time, CarZ was ideated  to offer consumers the best of both: car repair with the expertise of a dealer and comfort of a local mechanic.

CarZ offers a full range of repair services for all makes and models of cars: routine and preventive maintenance, electrical & mechanical repair, accident repair – denting and painting, tyres and services, battery, variety of styling and performance accessories, interior and exterior detailing. These services are offered in convenient neighborhood locations and offsite by mobile service vans. All services are performed by highly trained technicians employing advanced diagnostic and repair equipment and safe, high quality, branded replacement parts.

At CarZ, we strive to provide customer service that isn’t just the best, but legendary! [Website: www.carzcare.com]

Media Contact

Ajay Muliyil
Equator Communications
M: +91 99001 61311
Email: ajay[atsymbol]equatorpr.net

Vijay Gummadi, Co-founder, CarZ
Venu Donepudi, Co-founder, CarZ
Phone: +91-40-23606162
Web: www.carzcare.com
Email: info[atsymbol]carzcare.com

These Terms and conditions apply to all the members of the CWP CarZ Extended Warranty Peace-of-Mind plan (EWP). Every member agrees to abide by these terms and conditions as well as the other terms & conditions specified at http://www.carzcare.com/extended-warranty-for-your-car/ when using the services at a CarZ outlet.

Membership to the Programme shall be effective only upon the member submitting the fully filled out Application form and obtaining all required policy materials.

ABOUT THE PLAN

We Thank you for your interest in this plan. EWP offers Peace-of-Mind cover protecting you from the cost of repair or replacement of components as mentioned in the plan along with the associated labour cost on your vehicle. It is very important that you understand the program, so please read the terms and conditions mentioned on the booklet very carefully. Ask our Service Advisor for clarifications. The warranty on your car starts from the day you opt for the same. It is the responsibility of the policy holder to ensure and demonstrate that the vehicle has been serviced at prescribed intervals and maintained through the CarZ dealer / outlets. This plan is being offered in association with Corporate Service Plan India Pvt. Ltd (CSP) – India’s leading provider of extended warranty programs for major car manufacturers.

HASSLE FREE, EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR CAR…IN FIVE SIMPLE STEPS

1. Choose your extended warranty plan…from Basic to Comprehensive…depending on your needs and the wallet. Let a knowledgeable Service Advisor assist you in understanding each plan and its offering
2. Bring your car into CarZ for a check in case of concern
3. CarZ will submit your claims to CSP
4. CWP will directly settle any claims to CarZ, completely hassle free to you
5. You drive out with your car repaired, hassle free at no additional cost to you

BENEFITS TO YOU

• Peace-of-mind motoring
• Very competitive cost and coverage offering
• Option to choose between Basic cover to Comprehensive cover
• Enhanced value of vehicle through regular servicing and warranty protection
• Comprehensive cover provides protection against most major problems
• Warranty is transferrable to another owner in case of vehicle sale
• Enhanced vehicle resale value
• Wide service network of Quality repairers
• Use of reliable, high quality replacement parts
• Uniform service standards

SERVICE PACKAGE OPTIONS

The services to be provided to Customers shall be under three different warranty programs

• PLATINUM: Comprehensive warranty coverage applicable for vehicles aged less than 4 (four) years or have run less than 60,000 kilometers from date of sale
• GOLD: Semi comprehensive warranty coverage applicable for vehicles aged between 4 (four) to 5 (five) years or have run less than 80,000 kilometers from date of sale
• SILVER: Good basic drive line coverage applicable for vehicles aged between 5 (five) to 6 (six) years or have run less than 1,00,000 kilometers from date of sale

COMPONENT COVERAGE

Based on the plan opted (Platinum, Gold, Silver), the plan will cover Automatic Gearbox, Braking system, Diesel Injection System, Electrical system, Engine, Front Wheel Drive System, Fuel System, Manual Gearbox, Propeller shaft, Rear Axle, Suspension & Steering System. Talk to our knowledgeable Service Advisor to understand coverage and a detailed breakdown of components covered under each system listed herein.

SO, RUSH TO A NEARBY CarZ OUTLET TODAY…

These Terms and conditions apply to all the members of the CarZ Privilege Cardholders Programme. Every member agrees to abide by these terms and conditions as well as the other terms & conditions specified at http://www.carzcare.com/?p=1354 when using the services at a CarZ outlet.

Membership to the Programme shall be effective only upon the member submitting the fully filled out Application form and executing Annexure I which shall be retained by CarZ.

MEMBERSHIP RULES

You agree to ensure that you will provide the correct details when you subscribe to the membership of the Programme and your failure to do so shall invalidate your membership. Your responsibility to provide accurate information is a continuing obligation and you must ensure that you notify CarZ in the event of any change in the information provided by you. Individuals corporations, partnerships, trusts and other entities owning the vehicles in their respective names are eligible to participate. Any person executing Annexure I and agreeing to the terms and conditions of the Programme represents that he/she is the duly authorized representative of the  Corporation/partnership/trusts/other entities as the case may be, for adhering to the all the terms and conditions of the Programme. Your membership is personal to you and you are responsible for ensuring that no one uses your Card. You agree that you will use the Card solely for the purposes for which it is issued. The Card is available to persons over the age of 18. Subscription to the Programme is at the sole and exclusive discretion of CarZ. You must notify CarZ immediately if the Card is lost or stolen and in any event within 24 hours. CarZ reserves the right to charge a replacement fee of Rs. 100/- for each replacement of the Card. One Card shall entitle the member to avail the services with respect to only one vehicle as specified in Annexure I.  No card shall be held jointly in any manner.

MEMBERSHIP FEES AND CANCELLATION

Membership to the privileges under the Programme is available at a non-refundable nominal amount of Rs. 399/- (Rupees three hundred ninety nine only) inclusive of taxes and duties. CarZ reserves the absolute right to withdraw, cancel or suspend your membership (at its sole discretion) for any reason whatsoever. The entire amount shall be paid at the time of subscribing to the membership of the Programme and no payments shall be accepted by way of installments. The services shall be provided only with respect to the vehicle (details of which are specified in Annexure I) in respect of which membership fee has been paid. In the event of a Member being transferred from one city to another where CarZ operates an outlet, the subscriber can utilize the services of CarZ under the same registration. Membership to the Programme shall be automatically terminated in the event of a member’s death, bankruptcy, insolveny or if the Card is not used within 12 months of its issuance. Members may cancel their membership at any time by giving a written notice to CarZ and upon receipt of the said notice, the membership shall be terminated forthwith. Membership is valid for one (1) year from the date of purchase and shall be subjected to renewal at such terms and subject to such conditions as may be specified by CarZ at its sole and exclusive discretion.

USING YOUR MEMBERSHIP

Members shall be issued a Card alongwith a membership number. The member shall quote the membership number in all his correspondences as well as as the time of availing the benefits and privileges of the Programme. A Member shall start using the card after completion of 2 full business days from the time of purchase. The Card remains the property of CarZ and shall be returned upon request. Misuse of the Card and/or benefits may result in termination of membership or withdrawal of the services and benefits available. The promotion, discounts and services offered under this program cannot be combined with any other scheme or promotion offered by the Company or its affiliates.

SERVICES

The Card shall be used only for independently owned, non-taxi, non-commercial vehicles. The card entitles the members to avail the following services: (i) two (2) free car washes within 6 months of purchase of the card; (ii). selective services with 10 (ten) percent discount on labour; and (iii). one 35 (thirty five) point check up free of cost. However, there should be a minimum time period of 3 days between the two car washes. No car washes shall be provided free of cost post 6 months of purchase of card. Services (ii) and (iii) can be utilized within the period of one (1) year from the date of issuance of the Card.

The free car wash specified here includes the following services: Foam and rinse vehicle exterior, Clean & dress tyres, Clean windows – inside & outside, Dust Dash & side panels, Vacuum carpet & boot area, Air & towel wipe body

The 35 point check includes (only) inspection of the general car condition. The specific items being checked is per the Company’s policy and may be varied from time to time.

All services may be availed at CarZ outlets only during regular operating hours, preferably by prior phone appointment. The operating hours for each outlet may be ascertained by the Customer by calling the specific outlet where the Customer intends to utilize the services.

For a vehicle serviced under this program including services received under the 10% discount on labour program, all the Company’s standard terms and conditions of service applicable to regular services shall apply.

In the event of the member not utilizing the aforesaid services within the specified time limit, CarZ shall be under no obligation for any loss incurred or damage suffered by the member. Technical specifications and other detailed terms and conditions of the services to be provided pursuant to the Programme can be viewed at http://www.carzcare.com/?p=1354. The services pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Programme can be availed by the members at CarZ outlets per the Company’s service offering / list of services / service menu, which may change from time to time, without prior initiation to Customers. The following services are excluded from the 10% discount on labour offered under this scheme:

1. Any car wash apart from the 2 car washes being provided under this program
2. Any repair performed under insurance coverage (e.g. accident repair) or a third party extended warranty program
3. All outsourced repair works (e.g. although not limited to drive shaft repair, lathe machine works, hydraulic press works, air conditioning repair, alternator repair, compressor repair, electrical and winding works)

Customers may contact CarZ at (040) 23606162 or write email to info@carzcare.com for redressal of any issues. Resolution of all issues shall be done at the sole discretion of CarZ.

LIABILITY

You are deemed to be responsible for, and shall use your own skill or judgement as to, quality, value and suitability of such information and suggestions in relation to deciding membership and subscribing to the Programme, CarZ does and hereby disclaims any and all liability for any act or omission of CarZ or any loss incurred by you as a result of any act or omission of CarZ.

CarZ shall have no liability to you for any loss, damage, costs, expenses or other claims for compensation arising from dealings with CarZ. CarZ aims to ensure that viruses (or other programs having adverse effects) do not reside on the Site, but CarZ accepts no responsibility in relation to this. This section applies only to the extent permitted by law. CarZ shall not be liable for any errors or omissions within these terms and conditions. All conditions and warranties, whether express or implied, and whether arising under legislation or otherwise, as to condition, suitability or quality of services rendered, are expressly excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law. All decisions relation to your membership are at the sole and exclusive discretion of CarZ.

CarZ accepts no liability for any losses and claims arising from any inability to access the Site or any failure to complete a transaction. CarZ shall not be liable for any loss, cost, expense or damage of any nature whatsoever (whether direct or indirect) resulting from the provision of services or your reliance upon the information and suggestions provided by CarZ.

Services rendered as a result of the membership of the Programme are solely between the member, as a consumer, and CarZ, as a service provider. In consideration of CarZ making the Programme available to the members, members acknowledge and agree that under no circumstances whatsoever shall CarZ be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, or consequential damages that result from, or arise out of the usage of the services. CarZ shall not be responsible for any interpretation of the terms and conditions of this Programme by its employees, dealers or agents.

CHANGES IN TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Cards are not transferable and may only be used by each member to whom the Card is issued and only with respect to the vehicle for which it is issued. CarZ reserves the right to modify the structure, benefits and other features of the Card including the terms and conditions specified herein and on http://www.carzcare.com/?p=1354 or to terminate the Programme at any time. Any change shall be updated on the Site. Although CarZ may use reasonable efforts to notify members of material changes, it is the responsibility of the members to keep themselves up to date in respect of all the terms and conditions of the Card. Any use of the Card by a member shall be deemed to be acceptance of any amendment. CarZ shall not be liable for loss or damage resulting therefrom.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

CarZ owns the IP rights in its brand name “CarZ”. CarZ owns or is lawfully entitled to own all of the copyright in the Site. You may only download the requisite information on your personal computer for viewing purposes and print the same for your personal use only. You may not modify, copy, distribute, transmit, display, perform, reproduce, publish, license, create derivative works from, transfer or sell any information obtained from the Site. The Site is for your personal use only and should not be used for any kind of commercial purpose.

LINKS

CarZ assumes no responsibility for the contents of any other websites to which the Site has links and shall not be held responsible or liable for any loss or damages caused or alleged to have been caused by use of or reliance on any content or services available on such websites. CarZ may not have control of such websites. The inclusion of any hyperlinks to such other websites does not mean that CarZ endorses the material/information on such websites or has any kind of association with the owner thereof.

JURISDICTION

These terms and conditions including those specified at http://www.carzcare.com/?p=1354 are governed by the laws of Republic of India. Any dispute arising out of or in relation to the Programme is subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in Hyderabad.

CarZ, a leading multi-brand car service network today announced that it has received $5 million Series A funding from IndoUS Venture Partners (IUVP), a leading venture capital which provides early and mid-stage funding to new and growing businesses in India. CarZ will primarily use the capital to expand its network of service locations in other parts of India.

Vijay Gummadi, Co-Founder and CEO of CarZ said, “The business model fills the underserved gap between franchised dealers and untrained street-side mechanics. CarZ offers a full range of car repair services including electrical and mechanical repair, accident repair, parts and accessories, interior / exterior detailing & beautification in convenient neighborhood locations, served by highly trained mechanics with advanced diagnostic equipment.”

“This funding and partnership with IUVP will facilitate a phased rollout of our unique and differentiated car service network in new territories across India while making quality, convenient and affordable car repair and maintenance services accessible to Indian car owners”, added Gummadi.

Venu Donepudi, Co-Founder & Managing Director of CarZ, said, “Fast paced evolution of automotive technology, the rapid proliferation of vehicle models and increased quality awareness among customers requires a service provider to offer and continuously improve skills, technology, and thinking than the past. As the industry grows and transforms, service offerings need to improve correspondingly. A business model inclusive of such transformation has been at the core of CarZ. Our association with IUVP is in-line with our strategy to grow by attracting value added partners and extraordinary talent”

Kumar Shiralagi, Managing Director of IUVP said, “The current growth rate of the Indian passenger car segment is phenomenal. As has happened in developed markets such as the USA, Europe, Japan, Indian car owners’ conscious of service quality, value pricing and convenience will actively seek and prefer independent, multi-brand, quality car service centers like CarZ for car repair and maintenance services during and post warranty. By virtue of its service offering, quality of service and culture, CarZ has already established strong customer acceptance and brand identity in the markets it currently operates apart from generating huge nation-wide interest in its business model. The CarZ model has evolved systems and processes to effectively deliver quality, transparent, affordable, hassle-free and friendly car service to car owners at convenient neighbourhood locations.

M. M. Dillon & Co. (formerly CRT Investing Banking), Stamford, CT, USA was the Exclusive Advisor to this transaction. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Tim Meyer, MD and Head of Private Placements, M. M. Dillon & Co. said, “We at M. M. Dillon believe in helping emerging companies with outstanding business models and great management teams to scale their businesses by securing a value-added financing partner.”

Mr. Scott Merlis, MD – Automotive Sector Investment Banking, M. M. Dillon & Co. “CarZ is uniquely positioned to exploit the unfolding opportunities in the Indian Automotive Service Sector. We are privileged to be associated with it and are fully committed to support CarZ in all its future endeavours.”

About IUVP

IndoUS Venture Partners (IUVP) is a leading venture capital firm which provides early and mid-stage funding to new or growing businesses in India. Our team comprises experienced entrepreneurs and executives who understand the model of incubating ideas and transforming them into successful enterprises. It is our privilege to fund entrepreneurial ideas and offer collaborative partnerships. We invest in tomorrow’s business leaders, explosive new markets and enterprises that will transform our future.

We foster close partnerships with our portfolio companies, and build strong relationships based on integrity, trust and mutual respect. At IUVP, we are committed to redefining Indian entrepreneurship and are excited about India’s potential to be an innovative player in the global market. Our approach to investing and our philosophy of building successful companies makes us the ideal partner for entrepreneurs. [Website: www.iuvp.com]

About CarZ

CarZ was founded in 2008 by Venu Donepudi and Vijay Gummadi both auto experts with extensive experience in the North American Auto industry. Considering that dealerships and unorganized garages were the only two car service options in India at the time, CarZ was ideated  to offer consumers the best of both: car repair with the expertise of a dealer and comfort of a local mechanic.

Headquartered in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, the company currently operates four locations in Hyderabad at Jubilee Hills, Madhapur, Gachibowli and Prasads IMAX with plans for a phased nationwide rollout.

CarZ offers a full range of repair services for all makes and models of cars: routine and preventive maintenance, electrical & mechanical repair, accident repair – denting and painting, tyres and services, battery, variety of styling and performance accessories, interior and exterior detailing. These services are offered in convenient neighborhood locations and offsite by mobile service vans. All services are performed by highly trained technicians employing advanced diagnostic and repair equipment and safe, high quality, branded replacement parts.

At CarZ, we strive to provide customer service that isn’t just the best, but legendary! [Website: www.carzcare.com]

Media Contact

Ajay Muliyil
Equator Communications
M: +91 99001 61311
Email: ajay[atsymbol]equatorpr.net

Vijay Gummadi, Co-founder, CarZ
Venu Donepudi, Co-founder, CarZ
Phone: +91-40-23606162
Web: www.carzcare.com
Email: info[atsymbol]carzcare.com

CarZ wishes all Indians a Very Happy Independence Day!

Prasad’s IMAX, NTR Gardens, Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh – August 15, 2010 – CarZ Carwash & Express Lube, a CarZ service outlet was launched today at Hyderabad’s prestigious landmark – Prasad’s IMAX – South India’s first IMAX theatre. The new outlet promises an outstanding experience for the car owners in Hyderabad. Present during the inauguration were Venu Donepudi (Managing Director, CarZ), Vijay Gummadi (CEO, CarZ), Mr. Ramesh Prasad Akkineni (Managing Director, Prasads Group), Mr. Sanjay Reddy (CEO, Sun TV Network, AP) and Chief Guest Mr. Aswini Dutt Chalasani (Noted Film Producer & Founder, Vyjayanthi Movies).

Starting today, patrons will be able to catch the latest movies and shopping at Prasad’s IMAX and have their freshly washed car brought to meet them when they are ready to leave. The simple idea behind setting up this facility is to use idle parking time for car wash and other minor routine maintenance services while owners leave their vehicles to carry out other activities, such as shopping and entertainment.

CarZ Carwash & Express Lube offers full-service exterior and interior cleaning, as well as exterior-only washes under two packages called Shiny Bubbles & Glittery Bubbles. In addition, a variety of car care and maintenance services such as Interior Cleaning & Beautification, Paint Protection / Restoration / Teflon Coating, Anti-Rust Treatment, Air Conditioning System Disinfect, Engine Rejuvenation / Flush and Full Service Oil Change are provided. The Full Service Oil Change covers Oil & Filter Change for all makes and models of cars and includes routine maintenance services such as replacement of wipers, bulbs and vital fluids top-off. Minor emergency services such as tyre punctures, starting & charging problems can also be handled here. This will be the first such facility with such a diverse offering co-located with an entertainment & shopping experience, in Hyderabad.

The car care and maintenance team at CarZ is professional and well trained on all aspects of detailing. The operations are subject to very stringent ‘Standard Operating Procedures’ so as to ensure a highly professional service to customers. The car cleaning detergents used here are imported from Germany, are eco-friendly & bio-degradable – thus ensuring our commitment to our environment. Vijay Gummadi (CEO, CarZ) indicated “This location, like all our other facilities is Best-in-class. We are proud of the numerous technology enhancements we have made in washing technology to be here at Prasad’s. We will continue to employ technology to the benefit of our customers. Shortly, we will offer notification services where customers will get an SMS to contact valet when they are ready to leave.”

Speaking of the new addition to Prasad’s, Mr. Ramesh Prasad (M.D., Prasad’s) said “CarZ Carwash & Express Lube is a great amenity for the patrons of Prasad’s. The offering fits perfectly with our continued focus of making more amenities available to our patrons”. Further he questioned, “This concept of getting your car serviced while you enjoy the entertainment and the shopping – isn’t it amazing?”

“We are excited about being here at Prasad’s and at the launch of our 3rd service location. We like to make this convenience accessible to as many of Prasad’s patrons as possible. Hence, we shall offer Free parking in return for any service availed at CarZ Carwash & Express Lube”, Mr. Venu Donepudi (M.D., CarZ) was quoted as saying.

About CarZ
The Company’s vision is to establish CarZ as India’s leading independent, multi-brand car service destination by delivering world class car care in the vicinity of neighbourhoods and offering car owners professional, affordable and friendly service.

About Prasad’s IMAX
Strategically located in the heart of the city on the banks of Hussain Sagar Lake, Off NTR Gardens, Hyderabad is “Prasad The Experience”, a fully integrated Family Entertainment Centre. The project is a part of the Buddha Purnima Project Area, an initiative of, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department and is promoted by the Prasad Group. The Prasad Group has long been associated with entertainment through quality films which were box-office successes.

Spanning an area of 2,35,000 sq. ft, this centrally air conditioned facility is a high-tech, integrated, one-stop facility, providing the people of Hyderabad a unique and exciting experience, aimed at achieving ‘Customer Delight’.

Prasads IMAX is South India’s first IMAX theater. It has the largest screen in India. Apart from the IMAX screen the multiplex has 5 screens for regular cinema, a shopping mall, entertainment zone, food court, restaurants.

Contact:
Hanuman Prasad K. V.
Chief Manager, Operations
(040) 23 60 61 62

In this multi-part series, we will discuss each of these products.

Engine Oil Flushing is a procedure used to effectively clean and remove oxidised particles and fluid contamination left behind from previous oil changes. Sludge and other elements build up in various parts of the machinery over time. Not all of the oil is removed during a drain and fill oil change. Deposits are left behind and form sludge and varnish in the engine resulting in smoke from the exhaust and increased oil usage. The Engine Flush is usually a chemical formulation introduced and allowed to circulate through the engine, following the same flow pattern as the oil that lubricates the engine components.

As a result of engine flushing, the pep and power of the engine usually improves. It also promotes fuel economy and engine performance.

Application procedure:

• With the engine off, add the Engine Oil Flush to the old oil in the crank case. Usually, Engine Oil Flush is sold in small cans of 250 ml (that can be poured entirely in engines with oil capacities of 3 – 5 litres. Ensure not to overfill.
• Turn engine on and keep it running for 15-20 minutes
• Increase engine RPM to help distribute the engine oil flush more thoroughly
• Drain dirty oil
• Replace oil filter
• Refill with fresh oil that meets the manufacturer specification

An Engine Flush is not a substitute for using the manufacturer recommended quantity, oil grade or the change interval. It is a way to augment proper maintenance and thus help to prolong the life of the engine.

At CarZ, we use the Engine Oil Flush from WURTH. See specifications here.

An exciting trend is beginning to emerge in the premium car segment in the service sector. Now, owners of these models perceive CarZ as the trusted stop for their car maintenance needs. While quite a few Mercedes Benz’s have been serviced at CarZ, the latest to drive in have been the Bentley’s & the Maserati’s.

For most models of Mercedes Benz, CarZ performs all regular maintenance services including Oil & Filter Changes and Brakes. We use parts brands trusted the world over for their quality & reliability. We also carry the latest OBD (On-Board Diagnostic Scanners) to diagnose problems with these vehicles.

Owners of these vehicles also trust us for accident repair, denting & painting, wheel services (alignment, balancing and tyres), air conditioning services, minor electrical & mechanical problems.

While it is advisable to keep your vehicles prepared well in advance of the onset of monsoon, it is never too late.

Bear in mind that driving in wet weather conditions is much different than in dry weather. Always be on full alert and maneuver your car cautiously when its wet out there. Roads tend to be wet and slippery especially after a heavy downpour. The water on the roads is mixed with dirt. Oil leak from vehicles on to the road is also retained causing slippery surfaces.

After a heavy rain, a layer of water builds between the rubber tyres of the vehicle and the road surface, leading to loss of traction thus preventing the vehicle from responding to control inputs such as steering, braking or accelerating (read more about hydroplaning).

To prevent your car from skidding, CarZ suggests you adopt certain techniques and car maintenance tips that will ensure that you are in perfect control while driving on wet roads. These tips will enhance your safety this monsoon:

1. Do not drive at high speeds on a wet road. Driving at a lower speeds provides you with greater stability.
2. Avoid abrupt jerky movements while braking, accelerating or turning around a corner.
3. Maintain adequate distance between the vehicles in front of you. If by any chance, you need to brake suddenly, you will have sufficient distance between your car and the one in front of you before coming to a halt.
4. Ensure that the headlights, tail lamps, turn signal lights, brake lights are all in good working condition.
5. Always keep your headlights on so that you are visible to the surrounding vehicles especially during blinding rain or extremely dark and gloomy weather.
6. Ensure to get a full electrical system check-up. The wires need to be insulated and weak ones attended to.
7. Ensure the front and rear Wipers on the cars are in good working condition.
8. Skidding on wet roads leads to innumerable road accidents each year. In most occasions it has been reported that poor quality tyres or poorly maintained tyres were responsible in addition to the driver’s carelessness. So, invest in top quality tyres that are specifically adapted to both dry as well as wet and slippery conditions.
9. Maintain your tyres regularly: correct tyre inflation, whether they have become bald and worn out so that your tyres perform with maximum efficiency on wet roads providing you with greater control and confidence.
10. Avoid physical and mental distractions while driving on wet roads. Remain alert!
11. Stay calm and dont panic in case of a spin. First, lightly apply the brakes steering in the direction of the skid, push down the clutch and let the car slow down on its own.

Some other car maintenance tips appropriate for the rainy season:

1. Have your car waxed regularly to prevent damage to paint & body by acid rain.
   [Acid rain contains a variety of acids, including carbonic, nitric, and sulfuric acid.  These acids, are in large, produced by pollution problems stemming from carbon monoxide emmissions and industrial fallout containing concentrated amounts of sulphur, just to name a couple.  Once rain water evaporates, so do the nitric and carbonic acids.  Sulfuric acid, however, does not evaporate.  The remaining concentrated solid sulfuric acid actually etches or mars the painted surface of the vehicle.  These marks appear as dull white spots on the vehicle's surface once the rain water has evaporated.
   You can help prevent acid rain spotting by taking the necessary steps and have your vehicle's paint job thoroughly compounded and waxed at least twice a year.  This provides a good clean, slick surface that will help prevent those harmful chemicals from adhering to the vechicle's painted surface.  A wax or sealant will provide a protective barrier against the elements. Derived from: http://www.nationaldetail.com/tips/jan.html]
2. Get an anti-rust coating for the under body of your car.
3. Invest in regular car washes (exterior & under body).
   [Every day cars are subjected to sun, salt from the sea, grease and grime from the road, acid rain, smog, tree sap, dead bugs, and worst of all, the acidic compound of bird droppings. All of these eat away at a car's metal and chrome. They dull the paint. They corrode and cause rust under the carriage, in the wheel wells, even under the hood. You may not see it right away, but over time they will contribute to the decay of your car's exterior, ultimately diminishing its resale value.]
4. Clean, dis-infect your upholstery, carpets and interiors to keep it free from mold. Since mold and bacteria isn’t often visible, you and your family could be exposed to unhygenic conditions every day, unless the interiors are dis-infected regularly.
5. Keep the interiors clean.

OE parts, also called “genuine parts” refer to a part that came as original equipment on the car when you purchased it. These parts are generally available through your dealer. It’s a common misconception that car makers manufacture the parts they use to build the cars. They do not. Most car makers get independent parts manufacturers to help them design and build the parts used in your car. These parts are then packaged with the car maker’s brand and logo labelled as “Toyota Genuine”, “Honda Genuine”, “Maruti Genuine (MGP)”, “Tata Genuine”, “Hyundai Genuine”, “Skoda Genuine” and so on. Car makers are increasingly merely assembling components procured from thousands of part manufacturers. The parts are however manufactured to the car maker’s specifications of quality and performance.

Some companies like Maruti Suzuki choose to sell their parts beyond their dealer network to ensure that the “genuine” parts are available to independent garages and unaffiliated service centers. Most car makers allow the part manufacturers to sell these parts in the open market through wholesale distributors after a few years of the car production run. This time, they are packaged with the name of the actual manufacturer of the part such as Rane, Mahle, BOSCH, AC Delco, Denso, TVS Brakes, KBX, Luk etc. Parts from a large number of such respected Indian and global manufacturers are available for use in the car service industry. In many developed nations, car makers are also legally bound to sell their “genuine” parts to any buyer. Many of the car models sold in India (e.g. Honda City / Honda Civic, Skoda Octavia, Skoda Laura, Skoda Fabia, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Polo, Volkswagen Jetta, Volkswagen Passat) have already been in production in parts of Asia, Europe and the US. So, such markets are additional sources for these high quality parts.

Aftermarket parts are produced by companies other than those contracted by the original car manufacturer. There are many such reputed aftermarket parts manufacturers (e.g. The Affinia Group. Brands: WIX Filters, Raybestos Brakes, NAKATA Steering & Suspension Systems). These companies manufacture parts made to fit and perform as well as the original…and in many cases redesign the part to perform significantly better than the “genuine” part. While these parts are generally produced with the same machinery and materials, they may have minor differences in appearance. Such parts are usually sold significantly cheaper than the “genuine” part.

While it’s true that there are some aftermarket auto parts that do not meet high quality standards of the “genuine” parts, it is incorrect to term all aftermarket parts as inferior in quality. Replacement parts used at CarZ, for example are made by car parts manufacturers that are mandated by high international standards. So long as these aftermarket parts are from trusted sources, they can be used without hesitation…while saving you lots of money!

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