plus 1, Top picks in automotive gifts for 2009 - Examiner

Top picks in automotive gifts for 2009 - Examiner

Posted: 08 Dec 2009 08:03 AM PST

With nearly a quarter of a billion (yes, that's billion with a "B") on the road in the U.S., automotive-related items make great gifts for everything from a "Secret Santa" gift exchange to something for the in-laws, a teacher, client or really anyone with a driver's license. We turned to the experts at AAA for some suggestions about the best automotive gifts for this holiday season.

Digital Tire Gauge – Fewer than one in every 10 vehicles has properly inflated tires, making a digital tire pressure gauge a gift any motorist can use. Improperly inflated tires wear out sooner. They can also cause handling and braking problems making the vehicle less safe to operate. Digital tire gauges, which are available in a variety of models, help drivers and owners ensure all their tires are inflated to the proper levels (listed on the driver's door jamb) for their vehicle. AAA suggests getting a tire gauge with a backlit display to make it easier to read in low light conditions and checking tire pressure in all tires at least once a month. Price ranges from $10 to $30.

USB Car Charger – This is one gift everyone from gadget geeks to grease monkeys will appreciate! So many devices, from iPods to smartphones, use USB charging cables that a USB Car Charger is almost guaranteed to be a gift that will come in handy. A USB Car Charger converts a vehicle's 12-volt outlet into a USB charging outlet. Since the number of devices we use every day and the growing number of devices that rely on USB charging cables, you may want to purchase a model with more than one USB outlet. Price ranges from $14 to $25.

MagnoGrip Wristbands – If there is a gear head or shade tree mechanic on your list, these polyester wristbands embedded with super strong magnets will hold metal parts such as bolts, fasteners and other small metal items until they are needed. These handy wristbands will act just like another set of hands and keep smaller loose items from getting misplaced under the hood. They are available for men or women. Price $16.

Heated 12V Blanket – Stop battling for control of the temperature inside the family car. A 12-volt heated blanket is the perfect solution to this family cold war and a great gift for couples or families that enjoy taking road trips. Available in a variety of styles and colors, look for models with automatic shut-off and a safety timer. Some are also equipped with longer cords to provide accommodate backseat passengers. Price ranges from $21 to $35.

Cordless LED Work Light – A cordless LED work light is a great addition to any vehicle's emergency kit (are you listening parents and spouses?) as well as a super gift idea for mechanics. AAA suggests looking for one that's shatterproof, waterproof and comes with both wall and 12-volt car chargers. Hooks and/or stands will enable you to work with your hands without having to hold the light. Prices range fro $26 to $60.

AAA Battery Tender – Keeping a vehicle's battery charged means it's ready to go the next time you slide behind the wheel. It also extends the life of the battery. If someone on your list has a vehicle they don't use on a full-time basis, like a seasonal or collectible car, an ATV or motorcycle, a golf cart or an RV, the AAA Battery Tender will be a very welcome gift. Two units are available: the AAA Battery Tender Junior, which maintains a battery's charge, and the AAA Battery Tender Plus, which can recharge a wide variety of lead-acid vehicle batteries as well as maintaining charges. Price ranges from $29 to $59 and AAA members receive a discount on Battery Tender units purchased through select AAA clubs.

AAA Membership – This is one gift that will keep giving all year through and it will be appreciated most when the drivers on your list need help most. In addition to roadside assistance, AAA membership provides the recipient with discounts on a variety of products and services from auto repair facilities and auto insurance to hotels, restaurants and attractions. Price ranges from $38 to $80.

Remote Start System – When you can't be there, the gift of a remote start system will warm up or cool off a vehicle before they get in it. Systems vary greatly in features and pricing, however some of the features to look for include a visual confirmation such as flashing headlights that the remote start is engaged, a pin switch on the hood that prevents the vehicle from starting when the hood is raised, transmission monitoring to ensure the vehicle is in park prior to starting, sensors that will automatically shut the vehicle down if the engine begins to overheat or oil pressure is lost and the ability to manually shut the engine down via a remote transmitter. AAA reminds consumers to make sure the system is compatible with any vehicle immobilizer system, which may require that a microchip be embedded in order to start the car. Also, to ensure safe and proper operation, the system should be installed by a reputable auto repair facility. Price ranges from $80 to $600.

Magellan Roadmate GPS – GPS navigation devices are a popular gift. What makes the Magellan Roadmate GPS unit a stand out holiday gift is that the latest model, the Magellan Roadmate 1445T, includes exclusive AAA Tourbook content. A highway lane assist function points users to the right freeway or interstate exit and Traffic Link provides subscription-free live traffic updates. Price is $199 and AAA members receive discounts and other benefits from Magellan on several units.

"Automotive gifts don't have to be limited to the gear head in your life. AAA's picks include items for those who like to tinker under the hood or simply enjoy the ride as a passenger," said John Nielsen director of AAA Approved Auto Repair and Buying Network.

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Park River Implement - AG Week

Posted: 07 Dec 2009 10:02 PM PST

Now 3 Locations To Serve You!

Rolla Implement
1 Front Street
Rolla, ND
701.477.3116

Houtcooper Implement
701.968.3211
Cando, ND

Park River Implement sells a complete line of New Holland Equipment, Premium Auto & Truck Parts, Honda ATVs and Motorcycles, Honda Power Equipment as well as short line equipment in Northeast North Dakota. We service New Holland, Honda and other makes of equipment to fulfill our customers needs.

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