Partzonline https://partzonline.co.nz/ Blog with reviews of car parts and consumables Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:40:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://partzonline.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-spark-plug-42615_640-32x32.png Partzonline https://partzonline.co.nz/ 32 32 The Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Motor Oil https://partzonline.co.nz/the-difference-between-synthetic-and-conventional-motor-oil/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:40:45 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=110 Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. But with so many options available, choosing the right oil can be confusing. Two of the most common types are synthetic and conventional motor oil, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding their differences can help you make an informed […]

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Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently. But with so many options available, choosing the right oil can be confusing. Two of the most common types are synthetic and conventional motor oil, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision tailored to your driving habits and vehicle needs.

What Is Conventional Motor Oil?

Conventional motor oil, often referred to as mineral oil, is derived from crude oil. It undergoes refining to remove impurities and improve its performance. While it has been the standard for decades, advancements in automotive technology have highlighted its limitations.

Key Characteristics:

  • Cost-Effective: Conventional oil is typically more affordable than synthetic alternatives, making it a popular choice for older vehicles or those with lower mileage.
  • Basic Performance: While effective for standard driving conditions, conventional oil may not perform as well under extreme temperatures or heavy loads.
  • Frequent Oil Changes: Conventional oil tends to break down faster, requiring more frequent oil changes to maintain engine health.

What Is Synthetic Motor Oil?

Synthetic motor oil is engineered in a laboratory using chemically modified compounds. This results in a highly refined product with superior performance characteristics compared to conventional oil.

Key Characteristics:

  • Enhanced Engine Protection: Synthetic oil provides better lubrication, reducing engine wear and prolonging engine life.
  • Temperature Resistance: It remains stable in both high and low temperatures, ensuring optimal performance year-round.
  • Longer Intervals Between Changes: Synthetic oil doesn’t degrade as quickly, allowing for extended periods between oil changes.

Key Differences Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil

Composition and Refinement

The primary difference lies in how the oils are produced. Conventional oil is a natural product, refined from crude oil, while synthetic oil is man-made, designed to meet specific performance criteria. This gives synthetic oil a cleaner and more uniform molecular structure, which translates to superior performance.

Performance and Efficiency

  • Viscosity Stability: Synthetic oil maintains consistent viscosity under extreme conditions, such as cold starts or high engine loads, whereas conventional oil can thicken or thin out, reducing its effectiveness.
  • Engine Cleanliness: Synthetic oil contains fewer impurities, which helps prevent sludge buildup and keeps the engine cleaner over time.

Longevity and Cost

While synthetic oil is more expensive upfront, its longevity often offsets the higher cost. Conventional oil requires more frequent changes, which can add up over time. For high-performance vehicles or those driven in harsh conditions, synthetic oil may prove to be more cost-effective in the long run.

Environmental Considerations

When choosing motor oil, it’s important to consider the environmental impact. Synthetic oil production typically involves more energy-intensive processes, but its longer lifespan means less frequent disposal. Conventional oil, on the other hand, requires more frequent changes, which can contribute to increased waste if not properly recycled. Opting for synthetic oil could be a more eco-friendly choice in the long term if you drive regularly or have a high-performance vehicle.

When to Choose Conventional Oil

Conventional oil is a suitable option for certain scenarios:

  • Older Vehicles: If your car has been running on conventional oil for years without issues, there may be no need to switch.
  • Budget Constraints: For drivers seeking a cost-effective solution for standard commuting, conventional oil is a practical choice.
  • Low Mileage Use: If your vehicle is rarely used or driven for short distances, conventional oil may suffice.

When to Choose Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is ideal for drivers who:

  • Drive in Extreme Conditions: Whether it’s freezing winters or scorching summers, synthetic oil provides superior performance.
  • Own High-Performance Vehicles: Sports cars, luxury vehicles, and modern engines often require synthetic oil for optimal performance.
  • Want Fewer Oil Changes: If you prefer less frequent maintenance, synthetic oil’s durability makes it a convenient choice.

Hybrid Options: Synthetic Blend Oils

For those who want a middle ground, synthetic blend oils combine the best of both worlds. They mix synthetic and conventional oils to offer improved performance at a lower cost than full synthetic oils. This can be a great option for drivers looking to balance budget and performance.

Advantages of Synthetic Blends

  • Improved Durability: Synthetic blends last longer than conventional oils but are less costly than full synthetic options.
  • Versatility: They perform well in a wide range of driving conditions, making them suitable for most vehicles.

Practical Tips for Motor Oil Maintenance

Regardless of the type of motor oil you choose, regular maintenance is key to ensuring your engine runs smoothly:

  1. Check Oil Levels Regularly: Make it a habit to check your oil levels and top up when necessary.
  2. Stick to Recommended Intervals: Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes.
  3. Recycle Used Oil: Properly dispose of used oil to minimize environmental impact.
  4. Monitor Engine Performance: Pay attention to signs of poor performance, such as unusual noises or reduced fuel efficiency, which could indicate it’s time for an oil change.

Conclusion

Choosing between synthetic and conventional motor oil ultimately depends on your vehicle’s needs, your driving habits, and your budget. While synthetic oil offers superior protection, longevity, and performance, conventional oil remains a viable option for older vehicles and low-mileage drivers. Understanding these differences ensures your engine gets the care it needs to perform at its best. By considering factors like cost, driving conditions, and environmental impact, you can make an informed choice that benefits both your vehicle and the planet.

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Top Tools Every Car Owner Should Have in Their Garage https://partzonline.co.nz/top-tools-every-car-owner-should-have-in-their-garage/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:37:51 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=106 Owning a car brings many benefits but also responsibilities, including regular upkeep. From fixing a flat tire to performing basic maintenance, having the right tools in your garage can save you time, money, and hassle. In this guide, we’ll highlight the most important tools every car owner should own to keep their vehicle in excellent […]

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Owning a car brings many benefits but also responsibilities, including regular upkeep. From fixing a flat tire to performing basic maintenance, having the right tools in your garage can save you time, money, and hassle. In this guide, we’ll highlight the most important tools every car owner should own to keep their vehicle in excellent condition.

Essential Hand Tools: The Core of Your Collection

Starting with a reliable set of hand tools is fundamental for any car owner. These are versatile, easy to use, and necessary for handling many small fixes and adjustments.

1. Socket Set

A versatile socket set is indispensable for tightening or loosening bolts and nuts. Ensure your set includes both metric and imperial sizes, as modern cars often require both. Additional items like ratcheting handles and extensions will help you reach bolts in tighter spaces.

2. Screwdrivers

A collection of flathead and Phillips screwdrivers is a must. These tools allow you to remove or secure screws on various car parts, from dashboard panels to engine components.

3. Wrenches

Open-end and box wrenches come in handy for working on different areas of your vehicle. While adjustable wrenches offer flexibility, having a complete set ensures you’re always prepared.

4. Pliers

Pliers are great for gripping, cutting, or bending wires and other small components. Needle-nose pliers, in particular, are excellent for working in tight spaces.

Specialized Tools for More Complex Repairs

Once you’ve gathered the basics, you can start adding tools designed for specific automotive tasks. These items make complex repairs simpler and more efficient.

5. Jack and Jack Stands

If you need to replace a tire or inspect your car’s underside, a hydraulic floor jack and sturdy jack stands are essential. They provide safety and stability while you work under your vehicle.

6. Tire Pressure Gauge

Proper tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and safety. A reliable tire pressure gauge, whether digital or analog, ensures your tires are always in optimal condition.

7. Torque Wrench

For tasks requiring precision, such as tightening bolts to manufacturer specifications, a torque wrench is indispensable. Avoiding over- or under-tightening ensures your vehicle operates safely.

8. Oil Filter Wrench

Changing your car’s oil at home? An oil filter wrench makes removing old filters much easier, streamlining the process and saving time.

Advanced Tools for DIY Enthusiasts

For car owners who enjoy working on their vehicles or tackling advanced repairs, the following tools are worthwhile investments.

9. OBD-II Scanner

This tool reads your car’s diagnostic system and identifies potential issues. It’s particularly useful for resolving check engine light warnings.

10. Brake Bleeder Kit

If you’re comfortable servicing your brakes, a brake bleeder kit helps remove air bubbles from brake lines, ensuring optimal braking performance.

11. Multimeter

A multimeter is essential for diagnosing electrical problems. Use it to measure voltage, current, and resistance, helping to troubleshoot wiring or battery issues.

Why Quality Tools Are a Worthy Investment

Although buying tools involves an upfront expense, they pay for themselves by reducing long-term maintenance costs. Routine tasks such as oil changes or tire rotations can easily be done at home with the right equipment. Plus, mastering these basic skills empowers you to handle minor issues confidently.

Similarly, just as using the right tools simplifies vehicle care, curated resources like the newest online casino list offer convenience in finding trusted platforms for entertainment. Both examples highlight the value of efficiency and preparation.

Tips for Building Your Toolkit

  1. Start Small: Begin with the essentials, then gradually expand your collection as needed.
  2. Focus on Quality: Investing in durable, high-quality tools ensures better performance and longevity.
  3. Stay Organized: Use a toolbox or wall-mounted storage to keep tools accessible and in good condition.
  4. Learn the Basics: Watch tutorials or read guides to ensure you’re using your tools safely and effectively.

Conclusion

Equipping your garage with essential tools is an investment in both your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind. From fundamental hand tools to advanced equipment, each tool plays a crucial role in keeping your car running smoothly. Whether you’re an occasional DIYer or a car enthusiast, having the right tools ensures you’re prepared for anything. Begin assembling your toolkit today and enjoy the satisfaction of managing your car’s upkeep like a professional.

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Motor oils https://partzonline.co.nz/motor-oils/ Sat, 06 Apr 2024 13:29:35 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=65 Lubex brand is one of the oldest and most famous manufacturers of motor and transmission oils in Turkey.

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Lubex brand is one of the oldest and most famous manufacturers of motor and transmission oils in Turkey. The brand is part of the BELGIN company, which has been a successful manufacturer of technical, industrial and motor oils for more than 70 years. Initially, the company was engaged in the production of only industrial oils intended for drilling and ensuring the operation of machine tools and various technological equipment in various industries. Some time after the successful production was established, the first motor oils appeared under its own brand:

  • Lubex motor oils;
  • Lubex antifreeze;
  • Lubex hydraulic oil;
  • Lubex transmission oi;
  • Oils for trucks;
  • Oils for agricultural machinery.

The history of the brand

The manufacturer BELGIN is the most famous plant in Turkey, which has been manufacturing products since 1953. It is one of the oldest and still operating enterprises in the country. The excellent quality of Lubex motor and transmission oils has been recognized by the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM), and Lubex was the first Turkish manufacturer to receive five stars of the EFQM quality standard.

After receiving awards and gaining worldwide recognition, BELGIN became the first Turkish active member of the European Lubricants Institute (ELGI) and the independent European Association of Lubricant Manufacturers (UEIL).

By now, Lubex branded products with excellent prices are successfully sold in more than forty countries around the world. Belgin is one of the largest exporters in Turkey, which is of national importance for the country.

All types of motor oils

The Lubex brand specializes in the production of various technical fluids, including motor oils of various classes. An important point: before being put into production, any oils and lubricants produced go through a series of tests at our own BELGIN research institute.

This approach is important when developing oils for technically complex engines, for example, those with direct fuel injection and turbocharged engines. Lubex Primus 0W-20 SJA was developed for such powerplants. The chemical composition of the oil contains a large number of detergent and dispersant additives that ensure the purity of the entire lubrication system of the power plant.

Another example of high-quality scientific work is the Lubex 5W-30 MV-LA engine oil, with a budget segment price, which was developed specifically for engines with an extended maintenance interval. Due to its properties and excellent fluidity, this oil provides easy engine starting at low temperatures. The oil can be used in engines with valid specifications, such as BMW LongLife, as well as approvals from Opel, Mersedes, etc.

There are also more versatile Lubex motor oils, the price of which will please everyone – synthetic oil with a common viscosity Lubex Primus 5W-30 EC. This technical fluid meets all the highest quality standards and has approvals from the American Petroleum Institute – API. Thanks to a properly selected additive package, the oil can be used in any gasoline engines and engines running on liquefied gas.

The detergent additives included in the oil prevent the formation of deposits in the lubrication system, help disperse particles in suspension that are formed during the combustion of fuel in the engine cylinders. The oil helps to maintain high engine efficiency for a long time, provides resistance to low temperatures and high loads in all engine operating conditions.

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How to choose the best shock absorbers https://partzonline.co.nz/how-to-choose-the-best-shock-absorbers/ Sun, 10 Mar 2024 13:21:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=61 Why is Monroe Magnum technology so popular among commercial vehicle professionals and technicians?

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Why is Monroe Magnum technology so popular among commercial vehicle professionals and technicians? Read on for a brief overview of some of the inherent design advantages of these components.

BOUNCE RELIEF VALVE TECHNOLOGY

Monroe Magnum axle shock absorbers utilize rebound bypass valve technology to help provide better control and stability by delivering greater rebound forces at low piston travel speeds, reducing body roll. At the same time, the bypass valve maintains these forces at an acceptable level at high piston travel speeds.

This technology helps to make the trip safer because this additional force reduces cab roll and increases the truck’s handling and stability on the road.

The principle of this valve is quite simple: the low-speed discs in the valve system provide greater rebound forces than a conventional valve. This improves roll control as the valve stabilizes the suspension travel faster and more efficiently.

HYDRAULIC LOCKING FUNCTION

Many Monroe Magnum shock absorbers also feature a hydraulic lockout function. Here’s why it’s important: On commercial vehicles with air suspension, the shock absorber helps limit suspension travel, including excessive air spring stretch, which can lead to costly damage.

The hydraulic lock is a patented secondary piston located above the valve piston. This design helps to transmit mechanical force across the entire diameter of the piston rod, but the main function is to reduce the speed of the rod when it is fully extended. Therefore, as the locking piston moves into the extended stem guide, the increased hydraulic pressure reduces the stem speed and minimizes metal-to-metal contact during full extension.

VULCANIZED SILENT BLOCKS

Monroe Magnum shock absorbers contain mounting bushings known as “vulcanized bushings”. Remember that the bushing provides a strong and resilient connection between the shocks and the chassis, and filters out vibrations. The characteristics and durability of this important component depend directly on the quality of the rubber used in the production process, as well as whether this material has been vulcanized over the metal bushing.

Using a low-quality rubber compound can cause premature failure of the bushing, resulting in increased vibration and potentially accelerated wear on tires and other components. Vulcanized bushings (a technology used in Monroe Magnum shock absorbers) have rubber that is vulcanized or hardened over a metal bushing. This design is more resistant to wear, provides better vibration isolation and longer service life.

HIGH-QUALITY OIL SEAL

A good quality oil seal is used to ensure impact resistance. A defective seal can cause oil and/or gas to leak from the shock absorber. In addition, a poor seal can allow dirt, gravel and other contaminants to enter the shock absorber. This resilient element must be able to withstand frictional forces and high temperatures. Monroe Magnum shock absorbers feature an advanced, high-temperature resistant Viton double-edged oil seal designed to minimize leakage and extend the life of the shock absorber even in the most demanding environments. In fact, thanks to this seal, Magnum shock absorbers retain their excellent performance at temperatures up to 200 °C.

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How do you choose the perfect brake fluid for your vehicle? https://partzonline.co.nz/how-do-you-choose-the-perfect-brake-fluid-for-your-vehicle/ Fri, 09 Feb 2024 13:06:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=54 As a car owner, you need to keep a close eye on many aspects of car maintenance, from fuel and engine oil levels to tire pressure and wheel alignment.

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As a car owner, you need to keep a close eye on many aspects of car maintenance, from fuel and engine oil levels to tire pressure and wheel alignment. However, while car owners usually pay attention to engine oil, changing it on time, brake fluid goes almost unnoticed.

The importance of brake fluid for road safety

The brake system is an important part of a car that ensures safety and must always work properly. Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used to stop the wheel from spinning and stop the car from moving. It works as follows: the pressure on the brake is transferred to the fluid, which presses the brake pads against the brake discs. The brake discs are attached to the wheel bushings, and this pressure helps to reduce the speed of the vehicle. Brake fluid is the key component that creates this pressure, meaning that without good brake fluid, your braking system will work less efficiently and possibly not work at all.

Types of brake fluid

Now that we understand the importance of brake fluid for road safety, let’s take a look at the different types of brake fluid and which one to choose for your vehicle.

  • DOT 3 brake fluid: This type of fluid is ideal for car owners who live in flat areas and mostly drive under normal conditions. It is a polyglycol fluid with a boiling point of 140 degrees Celsius when wet and 205 degrees Celsius when dry. It is known for its ability to absorb moisture by about 2 percent of its volume over the course of a year;
  • DOT 4 brake fluid: DOT 4 is similar to DOT 3, but is designed for use in mountainous regions. Both of these fluids are polyglycol-based and absorb 2 percent of moisture annually. The difference lies in the higher boiling point for DOT 4: 155 degrees Celsius wet, 230 degrees Celsius dry;
  • DOT 5 brake fluid: DOT 5 is not intended for daily use. It is specially designed for racing cars and other high-performance vehicles. It has a silicone base with a synthetic additive, which means that it does not absorb moisture, but can also cause corrosion in the brake lines if not taken care of. DOT 5 brake fluid has a boiling point of 180 degrees Celsius when wet and 260 degrees Celsius when dry;
  • DOT 5.1 brake fluid: DOT 5.1 is also designed for racing cars and high-performance vehicles, but it is compatible with vehicles that use an anti-lock braking system. Its performance is similar to DOT 3 and 4, and it can also absorb 2 percent more moisture annually.

What to consider when choosing brake fluid

When choosing brake fluid for your vehicle, it is important to consider the following aspects:

  • Boiling point: First of all, you should pay attention to the boiling point of the brake fluid. Since the brake system generates high temperatures, it is possible that the brake fluid turns to vapor, resulting in a loss of brake performance. A dry boiling point indicates a new fluid, and a wet boiling point is a fluid that contains water after a period of use;
  • Corrosion resistance: Brake fluid should repel corrosion in places such as anti-lock brake control valves, master cylinders, brake cylinders wheel brake calipers. Some brake fluids contain various additives to help fight corrosion;
  • Viscosity: Viscosity is also important because it helps in high temperature performance, ensuring that stabilization, traction control and anti-lock brake systems work properly;
  • Compatibility: Brake fluids are designed for specific brake systems, including disc and drum brakes. Make sure you understand which system is installed in your vehicle and choose a fluid that is compatible with your vehicle.

Choosing the right brake fluid is an important part of ensuring the safety and efficiency of your vehicle’s braking system. After considering the boiling point, corrosion resistance, viscosity and compatibility with your brake system, you can make an informed choice of the brake fluid that is best for your vehicle. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and keep your brake system in good condition. Road safety is always a priority!

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Rules for choosing brake pads https://partzonline.co.nz/rules-for-choosing-brake-pads/ Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:03:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=51 Now a few words about the appearance of the pads. The striking thing is that high-quality pads will have good packaging, which must have a mark of conformity to the ECE R90 rule

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Now a few words about the appearance of the pads. The striking thing is that high-quality pads will have good packaging, which must have a mark of conformity to the ECE R90 rule (sometimes R-90 or 90R) – this is at least some guarantee that these pads have passed the standard certification cycle in Europe. The pad itself should not have large cracks (shallow cracks a few millimeters long are acceptable), its backing plate should not be bent, and the friction material should not be separated from the metal base and contain foreign bodies (although small bulges, chips at the edges or paint droplets are acceptable – it’s like rubbing off afterwards).

Now a few words about the construction of the pad. It consists of two main parts – a metal base and a friction material (the pad itself). But some pad manufacturers install a layer between them: for example, Ferodo has a ThermoQuiet line – these are ordinary pads that have an “anti-noise” friction composition, as well as a layer (between the pad and its base) that prevents the transfer of heat from the heated pad to the brake caliper and fluid. The pads themselves are baked from various materials (some manufacturers have up to 150 types – carbohydrates, graphite, borate, oxides, etc., and about 20 additives designed to prevent the pad from squeaking during braking), interconnected by special resins. If the pad was not baked properly, these resins are further baked during braking and brake heating, which is why you need to brake smoothly for the first 500-1000 km, and the pads themselves may smoke. Most often, the pad is reinforced with aramid fibers (Kevlar), less often with steel (used mainly for sports), and modern high-quality pads are necessarily free of asbestos (although sometimes it is included in cheap export pads).

Next, you need to pay attention to the operating temperature of the pad and its coefficient of friction. For civilian driving and even fast driving, pads with an operating temperature of up to +300-350 deg. Sports pads are able to operate up to a temperature of +800-900 deg. C, but their heating occurs only at 100-200 deg. C, which means a complete impossibility of working in urban conditions. Therefore, there is no point in installing racing brake pads on a civilian car, even if their friction coefficient exceeds 0.5 units – after all, in civilian cars it is +150 degrees. C, it can barely reach 0.2. The average value of the coefficient of friction of civilian pads is in the range of 0.3-0.5 units, depending on the company and the pad (0.25-0.35 for ordinary Aftermarket pads, 0.35-0.5 for premium OE pads). And the higher this figure, the better the braking. However, this coefficient often decreases with repeated braking, and the pad needs to cool down to restore its shape.

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Review of spark plugs and glow plugs https://partzonline.co.nz/review-of-spark-plugs-and-glow-plugs/ Sat, 18 Nov 2023 12:47:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=43 The popularity of spark plug brands can vary depending on the region, car make/model, and preferences of motorists.

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The popularity of spark plug brands can vary depending on the region, car make/model, and preferences of motorists. In this review, we’ll try to help you choose the best spark plugs for your car based on quality, life, price, and reliability. Here are some popular brands that are often mentioned by our experts based on sales statistics and feedback from customers and service stations:

NGK: Japanese manufacturer, is one of the most famous and popular brands of spark plugs, providing a wide range of parts for different cars.
Denso: another Japanese brand that produces high-quality spark plugs and is popular with many car enthusiasts.
Bosch: The German manufacturer is also known for its automotive components.
Champion: American manufacturer of ignition parts for various car brands.
Beru: a German brand that specializes in ignition systems, but glow plugs from this manufacturer are more popular.

Top 5 glow plugs (glow plugs for diesel)

Beru: one of the world leaders in the production of glow plugs for diesel engines.
NGK: also known for its high quality electrical parts.
Bosch: provides glow plugs for diesel engines and is a widely recognized brand.
Denso: also produces electrical parts for various cars, especially for Japanese and Korean brands.
Champion: this brand also produces glow plugs for diesel engines.

Signs of engine spark plug failure

Poor engine starting (if the engine starts poorly or with difficulty, it may be a sign of worn or dirty spark plugs).
Unstable idling (if the engine idles erratically, it may indicate a spark plug problem).
Loss of power (worn and coked spark plugs can lead to power loss and poor engine performance).
Unstable engine operation (the engine may shudder or run rough while driving).

Spark plug and glow plug life

The average spark plug life in thousands of kilometers for a gasoline engine car may vary depending on the manufacturer, design, material parameters, and operating conditions. Typically, spark plugs can last approximately 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, but this can vary.

The average service life of glow plugs in diesel engines can also vary due to the reasons listed above and can be approximately 100,000 – 150,000 kilometers, but this also depends on the operating conditions and the type of spare parts.

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Brake pad rating https://partzonline.co.nz/brake-pad-rating/ Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:54:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=48 Brake pads, although they don't need to be replaced like filters and oil every 10-15 thousand, are still a consumable. For some, they wear out in 25 thousand, for others in 50 thousand.

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Brake pads, although they don’t need to be replaced like filters and oil every 10-15 thousand, are still a consumable. For some, they wear out in 25 thousand, for others in 50 thousand. But the issue of replacement sooner or later becomes relevant for every car owner.

FERODO

If you have the opportunity to talk to experienced car owners who have also gone through their cars themselves, you will hear “ferodo” as the name of the pad in general. Americans have been producing them for over 100 years. The pads are produced in one Eco-Friction series, which replaced the Premier series (it remained only for trucks). The pads do not contain copper. According to the manufacturer, they are 20% more efficient than competitors (albeit on certain models). They have been used in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class since March 2014 and in the Audi A4 since September 2015.

TRW

Another American company that helped build the automotive industry. Since 2014, they have been part of the ZF group. Their products were installed on car assembly lines so widely that one of the types of brake systems was named TRW. The COTEC series is considered basic, but it has an advantage over competitors – during the “running-in” period, they brake 7 meters faster than their counterparts. The DTEC series is the same COTEC, but with low dust emission technology. This is a real advantage for cars with alloy wheels. For example, brake pads for Renault Kangoo 2 or brake pads for Renault Megane 3 from TRW are supplied to the assembly line.

ZIMMERMANN

Otto Zimmermann may not have such a rich history, but the quality of their products has been appreciated by many German automakers and they use these parts “in the original”. The basic series of pads is installed on the BMW assembly line and guarantees comfortable braking and long service life. The rd:z series are dust-free pads. Not only do they leave less dust on the rims, but they also brake twice as well.

REMSA

The only manufacturer on this list that is not considered a representative of the premium class. Perhaps, in terms of status and historical achievements, it really does not reach the others, but in terms of product quality it does not lag behind. And given that the price of these pads is at the “average and above average” level, this makes them simply ideal in terms of “price-quality”. Remsa is one of the two brands of the Spanish company Eurofren. The pads are manufactured at 12 plants around the world. Up to 130 million pads are produced annually. The pads are tested on mountain roads in the Alps, where braking systems are tested for all possible types of overloads. Additionally, the pads are run in tests on rotating dynamometers that simulate 10,000 hours of operation. Remsa brake pads are more often purchased by owners of Volkswagen cars, as their price is much lower than that of competitors. A good example is the brake pads for Passat B7, this manufacturer is 30% cheaper than Ferodo or TRW.

Brembo

A manufacturer that needs no introduction. Italian brake calipers Brembo, excite the soul of everyone who is fond of super and sports cars. By the way, Brembo started producing pads relatively recently – only in 2010. The pads are represented by three series – Original, Xtra, and Sport. The first series consists of 1400 pads. The second was introduced in 2018 and is designed for sports and powerful cars. The Sport series is designed for driving on the highway in sport mode. The mixture can withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Celsius (while conventional pads heat up to 400). Brembo brake pads are bought mainly by owners of Japanese car brands, because their cost is much lower than that of their closest competitors. For example, the front brake pads on a Mitsubishi Lancer 9 are 15% cheaper than Ferodo.

Textar

This German company has been working on brakes since the days when leather belts were used instead of pads. And today it is a premium manufacturer, widely represented in the original equipment of both ordinary cars and supercars. Textar pads are represented by a basic series of 1600 articles and the EPAD series, which promises virtually silent braking with low dust emission.

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Which car headlights shine better and why https://partzonline.co.nz/which-car-headlights-shine-better-and-why/ Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:35:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=40 Lasers, xenon, diodes (LEDs) - first of all, by these terms we mean light sources, i.e. lamps. But in the case of a car, we shouldn't talk about lamps separately

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Lasers, xenon, diodes (LEDs) – first of all, by these terms we mean light sources, i.e. lamps. But in the case of a car, we shouldn’t talk about lamps separately, but about an integrated optical system – headlights – otherwise, you won’t get full road lighting. This, in fact, should be discussed in more detail.

How a modern headlight works

A car headlight of any type (there is one exception, but more on that below) has three main elements: a light source (lamp), a reflector-reflector, and a glass diffuser. The lamp provides light, and the rest of the parts shape it into a beam of the desired shape. And the role of the last two elements can be different: sometimes the reflector is the key, sometimes the glass is almost the only thing that makes the difference, which, by the way, is often not glass but plastic. But in any case, the lamp is the most important thing – if it is weak, you will never get an acceptable beam.

Another important factor in the efficient operation of a car headlight is the absolute integrity of all its components. Unlike other vehicle systems, a damaged headlight will not work properly, and may even endanger the safety of other drivers. The main condition here is the exact position of the lamp in the headlight relative to the reflector and diffuser. After all, the point of light emission – for example, the spiral of a halogen lamp or the LED chip of a diode lamp – must be located strictly at the focal point of the optical system. If the lamp is out of focus for some reason, the headlight will not illuminate the road properly, but will instead blind other drivers, including those on the road.

Halogen lamps

To begin with, we must mention the good old incandescent light bulbs – what we now call halogens. They emit light from a filament of refractory metal that is heated by an electric current. Halogen lamps became halogen when their bulb was filled with an inert gas, halogen. This technology increases the efficiency of the lamp while maintaining its service life.

Halogen lamps are inexpensive and technologically advanced, can be connected without additional starters, are not afraid of voltage and temperature fluctuations, and can be easily adapted to any optical system. The disadvantages are low efficiency, about 5-15%. Thanks to the new technology of increasing the pressure in the bulb from 5 to 12-13 bar, it became possible to produce models with standard consumption, but with increased light output: +30% brightness, +50% and even +100%. The best halogens have a lifespan of up to 1000 hours, while more or less mass-produced high-quality ones have a lifespan of no more than 400 hours.

Xenon

In technical terms, these are gas-discharge lamps, in which light is produced by an electric arc ignited between a pair of electrodes in an atmosphere of inert gas, xenon. Compared to halogens, such a lamp consumes almost half the current, but its luminous flux is two to three times higher. A branded discharge lamp lasts longer than a typical halogen lamp. Another positive is that its light spectrum is close to daylight. There are also many disadvantages: high arc temperature, which causes the lamp to burn out the reflectors of standard, non-specialized optics, the need for ignition units and an additional dynamic beam correction system. Xenon lamps are frankly expensive; a high-quality set with starter modules and appropriate optics costs about a thousand dollars.

LEDs

In LED lamps, light is produced by a semiconductor chip that requires two to three times less energy than incandescent lamps. Another significant advantage is durability (up to 100 thousand hours). Today’s LED headlight bulbs are connected to the mains without additional units. It is important that it is possible to create an LED lamp in the size of a conventional halogen lamp (H4, H7, etc.), which means that you can easily use diode light in standard headlights. However, it should be an exceptionally high-quality lamp from one of the world’s two or three leading manufacturers who have learned to produce LED chips no larger than a halogen spiral. At the same time, cheap analogs do not fall into the focus of the optics and do not provide normal lighting, but instead blind everyone around.

Laser headlights

The newest lighting technology today is laser. In these headlights, the road is illuminated not by the laser itself, but by a fluorescent substance that the laser “pumps”. In addition, a special set of lenses and micro-mirrors collects the light from many individual “pixels” and directs it onto the road.

The main advantage of such headlights is their high light output, as the brightness is twice that of LED headlights or xenon. The laser beam reaches 600 meters, but because of its brightness, it is advisable to use it only with the aforementioned matrix technology. Laser headlights can be made small, they heat up less than LED headlights, and last as long as they do.

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DieHard Platinum AGM batteries https://partzonline.co.nz/diehard-platinum-agm-batteries/ Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:23:00 +0000 https://partzonline.co.nz/?p=34 DieHard Platinum AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are specially designed for today's energy-intensive vehicles.

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DieHard Platinum AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are specially designed for today’s energy-intensive vehicles. DieHard Platinum AGM batteries are designed to provide up to 2 times the service life of a standard flooded battery. This battery is ideal for vehicles with start-stop technology or high-demand electrical accessories (reversing cameras, heated seats, navigation, additional accessories) that place a significant load on the battery. DieHard Platinum AGM batteries are designed with Stamped Grid technology, which provides nearly 3x the corrosion resistance, longer durability and 60% more electrical flow than other standard flooded batteries.

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