So Fix it

According to Jacques Richot of Mister Transmission in Winnipeg, "Most new transmissions are actually rebuilds. Only a few manufacturers sell [transmissions] fully new." Before buying a new transmission, familiarize yourself with the different types.

New Transmissions

Only a handful of companies make new transmissions as replacement parts. In most cases, new transmissions only come with a new car. If a garage offers you a "new" transmission, ask whether it is actually new or a factory-rebuilt transmission.

Used Transmissions

A used transmission is just what it sounds like: a transmission removed from another car. If you buy a used transmission, ask about its condition and whether it has undergone a maintenance check. Also ask about any guarantees that may come with it.

Rebuilt Transmission

Transmission rebuilds usually occur at a garage and may involve the rebuilding of your current transmission. In a rebuild, the mechanic takes apart and cleans your transmission, repairing or replacing any damaged parts.

Remanufactured

Remanufactured transmissions are the same as factory-rebuilt transmissions. The process remains essentially the same as with a rebuilt transmission except a remanufacture occurs in a factory setting. The cars original manufacturer usually performs this job, which usually comes with a guarantee or warranty from the company.

Tip

According to Cottman Transmissions in Des Moines, Iowa, you may save money by pricing the transmission and installation separately. Obtain one quote for the transmission itself and another quote for the cost of installing the transmission. You may be able to buy the transmission elsewhere at a lower price and then pay to have it installed.

New vinyl dashboard covers give your car a new look, and are a simple way to add style. Some vinyl covers require you to remove certain components of the dashboard to complete the installation, but most only need a small amount of adhesive to keep it fastened securely in place. Vinyl covers must be positioned caully to ensure a proper fit. Avoid using too much glue as this will unnecessarily prolong the drying time and may leave bumps underneath the finished cover.

Instructions

1

Wash your cars dashboard thoroughly before applying the adhesive. Spray the dashboard with vinyl cleaner, buff the dashboard with a moist paper towel and wipe away any excess. Dry completely with a lint-free towel or cloth.

2

Line up the dash cover with your cars features caully. Once the glue sets it is very difficult to reposition your vinyl dash cover, so you will want to get it right the first time. Use a pencil to mark any areas that need to be cut or altered. Caully cut out these areas, laying the vinyl cover back on the dashboard occasionally to ensure a good fit.

3

Spray a thin layer of glue on the bottom of the cover and on the top of your dashboard. Let it dry for one minute (this will make the glue very tacky and will adhere to the dashboard more easily).

4

Lay the cover down on the dashboard. Go slowly and rub areas as you go along to ensure there are no air pockets. Check every five or six hours to ensure that the vinyl glue is setting correctly. Add a small amount of glue to any edges that fray up, and apply firm pressure to set. Keep vinyl dash cover dry and out of direct sunlight for twenty-four hours following installation.

The 1999 Ford Expedition comes standard with a passive anti-theft system Ford calls "PATS," that incorporates a computer chip-equipped key to cut down on vehicle theft. Ford codes the chip inside the key with a digital signal unique to the particular Expedition. A transponder inside the dashboard reads and recognizes this signal as soon as you insert the key into the ignition. If the chipped key is not present, the Expeditions ignition system is disabled. In the event you lose or damage your key, youll need to have a Ford dealership replace it and program the replacement key to your Expedition.

Instructions

1

Go to your Ford dealers parts department with your 1999 Expeditions VIN number, registration or title and your state issued ID.

2

Present your VIN number to the parts counterperson and request a new key for your 1999 Ford Expedition. The Parts Manager will need to verify you own the Expedition by matching your title or registration with your state issued ID (if the Parts Manager is not available, ask to see the Service Manager or Parts and Service Director). This is a safety measure incorporated by Ford Motor Company in 2007 to prevent thieves from requesting keys to your Ford vehicle.

3

Go to the service department with your new key and request to have the key programmed to your Expedition. You will have to have your Expedition present, so if you dont have any keys for it, youll need to tow it to the dealership.

Lost Hyundai car keys can be replaced relatively easy. However, it can be expensive, so is important to explore your options in order to save money. Many of the modern Hyundai keys are laser cut are can be replaced by matching the vehicle identification number, or VIN. Depending on your vehicles year, the Hyundai Elantra keys can either be replaced at a locksmith or at your nearest Hyundai dealer.

Instructions

Instructions

1

Look near the base of the drivers side windshield. Locate a slim metal plate along the side of the windshield that will have the VIN number. Record the number and have your drivers license, registration and insurance documents on hand. This will be needed to prove ownership.

2

Visit you local hardware store if you are looking to simply make a duplicate of a non-computerized car key. Some later Hyundai Elantra car keys have computerized chips at the base of the key to open the locks. These cannot be made by the hardware store.

3

Look for area locksmiths. There are many locksmiths that have the technology and capability to cut and reprogram duplicate car keys. The prices are typically cheaper than the dealer.

4

Visit the dealer as a last resort. Visit the Hyundai USA website and click on "Find a Dealer." Enter your zip code and it will reveal a list of the nearest dealers and service centers.

5

Call the dealership and ask for the parts department. Arrange a time or appointment to have the key replaced.