Geared up to drive off?

When it comes to buying an automobile, there are a few things that one takes for granted. The basic tyres, windows and a glossy finish are just some of them. However, there are various options available when it comes to these aspects of an automobile. Taking a decision based on the persuasiveness of the sales person on duty is not a very good idea. A smarter approach is to understand the implications of selecting each option before visiting the showroom for finalizing the deal.      

Teflon Coating
A durable, non-stick protective barrier resistant to dirt, mud and environmental pollutants.

Pros
It has no static electric charge and will not attract dirt and dust.

It will not react with contaminants from the atmosphere or with hydrocarbon residues.

It has excellent thermal stability. In other words, it retains its unique non-stick characteristics from extremely cold to extremely hot conditions.

It is highly resistant to UV rays.

An excellent water repellant, compatible with plastics, metals and elastomers (synthetic materials with properties similar to rubber.)

Cons
It only acts as protection and a resistant, no miracles should be expected.

Teflon coating could mean a special wax that carries the Teflon brand name.

Many offer a similar sounding ‘tef-seal’, which needs to be redone after 3-6 months.

Protective coatings work better in a cleaner environment, where you have less dust, pollution and cooler climate.

If the Teflon applicators ask you to come back to them in 6-12 months time for re-application, it’s a fake!

Conclusion: Members of the Team-BHP forum opine  that once the car goes for a dent/ paint job, the shine is gone. Most owners use simple waxing and polishing every quarter. Hand application is preferred to machines.

Tubeless Tyres
The inner lining is completely airtight, between the tyre and wheel. This holds the air instead of a tube.

Pros
You never have a totally flat tyre immediately with a tubeless. It is always a slow deflation.

Better safety, less chances of accidents due to sudden air leakage. 

Less prone to punctures, they are also designed to heat up less.

Run with less air pressure for better traction and control on rougher terrain.

Absence of tube reduces weight and lowers rolling resistance saving fuel.

Cons
Can get damaged due to bad quality and poor maintenance as well as rough roads.

Repairing is a painful process even with repair kits available in the market.

If it is damaged beyond repair, a tube needs to be inserted to make it work.

More expensive, power inflator needed also.

Steel rims should not be bent or damaged in any way and must be rust free.

Conclusion: Decision largely matter of personal choice

Wind Deflectors
Wind deflectors are an ideal accessory, which allow you to partially open the windows for fresh air and avoid gales blowing through your vehicle.

Pros
Fitting wind deflectors to your vehicle helps avoid ruining electric window switches and the interior trim from rain coming in.

You can get cool air circulation and the rain will be deflected away from the open window.

Particularly useful if you have dogs, if you need to leave them inside the vehicle for any reason you can partially open the window so they get fresh air without anyone noticing that the window is open.

They can help reduce noise while driving with the window open.

Deflectors also look great, and provide style to your car or SUV.

Cons
Need to be installed professionally and perfectly.

Only those custom-made specifically for your car model work.

Sometimes the driver’s side power window doesn’t stay in the closed position when raised after installation.

Conclusion: A must-have accessory for those driving in cities like Mumbai. Helps reduce air-conditioning costs as well.