Pedestrian Street Crosswalk Red Light Button - Do They Work

Pedestrian Street Crosswalk Red Light Button - Do They Work


Do those buttons you push on street lights really turn the signal from red to green?  Is that button a fake? I can not remember ever pushing the crosswalk button and the light changes immediately or even within a few seconds.  Not that I expect the signal to instantly stop all the on coming traffic solely to allow me to cross the street. Not at all.  I'm really not all that important.

That said, there is something to be said about the things we take for granted as real or just something to make us feel like we are in control.  Is that pedestrian button just there for my amusement or do they really work?

I found an article that delves into that very subject.  I thought is was pretty interesting as it addresses other things as well that may or may not work.  The author of the attached article below refers to "placebo" quite often when taking about things we take for granted as real, but really just serve to make us feel in control, when we really are not.

In short, he answer on whether pedestrian street crosswalk red light buttons really work comes down to location.  Some are set up to make the signal change green and others are disconnected so that you will not get the green light.  Check out the article posted below for more details. Pretty interesting stuff.


Street Light Buttons Real Or Not?


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Fix Vertical Blinds that Keep Falling

Avoid Toll Ticket If You Pull Into Wrong Lane With EZ Pass

How to Avoid Traffic Ticket Pay EzPass Toll in Wrong Cash Only Lane

Keep from Gettting Fined in Ez Pass Lane

By TurtleDog, 

Avoid Traffic Ticket Pay EzPass Toll in Wrong Cash Only Lane

It'll happen eventually... you'll get on the turnpike using EzPass. Since you have EzPass you won't take your turnpike ticket. Then you'll get into a cash only no EzPass lane to pay. How do you avoid the fines? How to do you pay? Read on to learn How to Avoid Traffic Ticket Pay EzPass Toll in Wrong Cash Only Lane

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     OK, you are driving along in your car with your valid EzPass. You are approaching the tolls.
   • 2
     You always check to be sure you are entering a lane that accepts EzPass.
   • 3
     If you mistakenly drive your car into a cash only lane, don't panic.
   • 4
     Pull your car up to the toll booth operator and stop the car. Be courteous
   • 5
     Tell him or her that you accidentally pulled into the cash only lane. Say you are sorry and ask what you need to do.
   • 6
     The toll operator will look annoyed and roll his or her eyes as if you're the dumbest thing on Earth (your not, trust me :-)
   • 7
     Then they will ask you for your EzPass. Don't do what I did and start reading your account number off the EzPass unit attached to your car windshield. They'll just roll their eyes again and probably think how lucky they are that they are so much smarter than you :-)
   • 8
     Actually hand the toll operator the EzPass off your windshield. It may appear to be permanently fixed on your windshield but it is actually held on to your automobile by velcro
   • 9
     The operator will scan your EzPass and then hand you a receipt. They won't give your EzPass back until you sign the receipt.
   • 10
     Make sure the receipt looks accurate, sign it and hand it back.
   • 11
     The cashier will give you back your EzPass. Make sure you get it back. Put it back on your car's windshield right away so you don't forget.
   • 12
     Say thank you and drive off. If you're lucky, you'll get a 'You're Welcome'. If not, don't take it personally. These hard working folks deal with road rage induced automobile drivers all day long.
   • 13
     Thanks for reading my How to Avoid Traffic Ticket Pay EzPass Toll in Wrong Cash Only Lane

How to Get a Car Ride to Work

Getting Driven To Work

By TurtleDog, eHow User

Get a Car Ride to Work

Hi! Have you ever found yourself without a car and needed to get to work ? Have you ever found yourself in need of a car ride anywhere? Please read on, maybe I can come up with a fresh new idea for you.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1
     This first one is too obvious. I almost didn't include it but though what the heck..... See if there is a coworker in your area that will give you a lift. Be sure though this is someone that you like being around. You may get stuck returning the favor more often that you think ;-)
   • 2
     The thought of contacting a friend or relative is another fine idea but, again, is too obvious for me to waste your time with here :-) Think more creatively like....
   • 3
     Try asking someone who doesn't work the same days or the same shift that you do. People have their own routines and the last thing they want to do is miss work or alter their schedule. Try someone with a schedule opposite of yours. Offer to return the favor if it is ever needed.
   • 4
     Ask a retired person. I'm sure you know somebody who is retired. If you are a senior, you may have friends that are retired. If you are a young person, I'm sure you can think of someone with a relative nearby who is retired. Give it some thought. They're out there!
   • 5
     Ask someone who is unemployed. Yeah, times can be tough and you might know someone out of work. This person might be happy to do it. You can always sweeten the pot by offering a few bucks for the ride. It could turn out to be a mutual favor for both of you.
   • 6
     Find someone you know who is out of work on disability. Okay, I'm getting a little cold blooded here, but you may know or know of someone. Just be sure this person isn't violating the conditions or terms of their disability. The guy with epileptic seizures might seem like a good idea until he puts you in the hospital, loses his disability, and is thrown in jail.
   • 7
     OK, another cold blooded one .... Ask a not-so-secret admirer. Do you have one? I suspect you're pretty good looking so give it some thought. You have one :-) Every so often in life there's someone that really wants to be around you, but maybe you don't share the same enthusiasm. They'll be thrilled to pick you up, drop you off, drive you to lunch, take you to the store, wash the dog, etc :-)
   • 8
     Do you know anyone that has an extra car? They might be fine with you borrowing it. If it isn't a tanker truck, offer to fill it up with gas as a thank you.
   • 9
     Consider walking. "What??!!" you might say. I admit, if you are 10 miles or so from work, it is probably too far. Believe it or not, if your destination is only a few miles, it isn't too bad. Be sure you are in good enough health to make the walk. Be sure to pack a small umbrella and anything else you may need in case the weather goes sour.
   • 10
     Call a cab. Yeah, now we are getting desperate. You may need to shell out the loot for a cab ride. Do you live near a cab service? No? Well, actually, I think you do and don't know it. Most suburban and even rural areas have cab companies. Try to call ahead of time for rates and availability.
   • 11
     Rent a car. Now we are really desperate and looking to spend some big bucks. One problem I find with rental agencies is that they usually don't have cars available the last minute. Try to reserve a car as soon as possible. Also, be sure to ask them for discounts. If you are having your car repaired, ask the rental agency if they give discounts to customers of that repair shop. I rented a car once and got a discount because of the company I work for. My company is really small too! Try it.
   • 12
     I hope that helps give you some ideas on how to Get a Car Ride to Work . Thanks for reading!

How to Change the Voice on Your Garmin GPS Navigation

Changing The Sound of Voice on Garmin GPS

By TurtleDog 
 

This article will teach you how to change the voice on your Garmin GPS Navigation. This method may work for other GPS/Navigation makes and models but Garmin is the one I am most familiar with.
This is pretty easy but not many people seem to do this. I love it as it breaks up the monotony of the same voice and it's also kind of fun

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Your GPS/Navagation system.
• Power source to plug into if your battery is dead or low

1. • 1
     OK, you've been listening to the same American dude talking on your Garmin Navagation GPS for weeks and you want to break things up a bit. First select the TOOLS icon.
   • 2
     Then select the LANGUAGE icon
   • 3
     Then hit the VOICE button / icon
   • 4
     A screen will display showing all kinds of voices in all kinds of languages, gender voices and accents. Use the up and down arrows to scroll through the selections
   • 5
     Pick the voice you want by touching it. If you want an authentic outback Australian voice, go for it! If you want a professional British/English accent, do it! :-)
   • 6
     Then hit the OK button / icon.
   • 7
     From here hit the BACK button
   • 8
     Another page will appear and hit the BACK button again
   • 9
     From here there is nothing else to do, the new voice is now in place.

How to Remove Jammed Lug Nut Bolts that Won't Unscrew during Tire Change

Take Off Hard To Remove Lug Nut More Easy

By TurtleDog

Remove Jammed Lug Nut Bolts that Won't Unscrew during Tire Change

Nothing is worse than have to change your tire unexpectedly. Even more horrible, is when the bolts won't come off no matter how hard you pry. Read on to learn how to Remove Difficult Jammed Lug Nut Bolts that Won't Unscrew during Tire Change

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     
     

     Of course, the first thing you can do is try harder. Put all of your might into that rusty old lug wrench and hope those lug Nuts come right off of that tire
   • 2
     
     

     If that isn't working for you, either find or purchase a steel pipe. Be sure it is about 2 feet long. Longer wouldn't hurt either. We'll use this to again a little leverage on this pesky automobile tire of yours
   • 3
     
     

     While keeping your lug wrench on the tire lug bolts, slide the pipe over the end of the wrench.
   • 4
     The purpose of doing this is so you increase the size of the 'lever' or gain leverage on the nut / bolt. Essentially, you want to extend the length of your lug wrench by putting a longer pipe on the end of it.
   • 5
     Then try unscrewing. Adding a mere foot or two of leverage adds a lot of power to the wrench. Be sure to keep the pipe in your car's trunk for use during your next flat tire.
     
     

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How to Install a Car Headlight Bulb

Put New Front Lights in an Automobile Easy

By TurtleDog,

Install a Car Headlight Bulb

I might be the worst mechanic on the planet. Seriously, there are petunias more mechanical than me. That said, I can do some real basic stuff. If I can do it, you can do it. Read on to learn how to install a car headlight bulb .

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• New headlight bulb that is designed for your car.

1. • 1
     Before you rely entirely on my article, keep in mind that I own a 1995 Honda civic and replaced the headlight bulb in that car. Read ahead, if your car is similar, this article is right for you
   • 2
     Go to any auto parts store headlight section. There will be a catalog in the aisle. You'll need to know the make, model and year of your car. Look up make model and year of your car in the catalog to determine the correct headlight. The catalog will reference a part number for the correct headlight for your car.
   • 3
     That same part number will be written on the packaging of the headlight. Find the headlight with that number. If you aren't sure, just ask the clerk at the store to find it for you.
   • 4
     Go home, turn off the car, open your hood. Find the back of the headlight you need to fix. Note there is a plug in the back of the light. This is what connects the power to the headlight.
   • 5
     Grab the plug firmly and pull it out
   • 6
     There will be some rubber insulation in the vicinity of where you just pulled the plug out of. Pull back insulation. You'll see bottom of old headlight bulb.
   • 7
     There is a clip that holds in the bulb. The clip should just be 'hooked' in. Just unhook it so that it swings out (you won't have to remove it completely). Then remove the bulb.
   • 8
     When you open the package that holds the new bulb. Try not to touch the 'bulb' section of the bulb. Hold it by the base. I'm told certain car headlight bulbs lose life if they come in contact with oils from your hand.
   • 9
     

     Holding the bulb by the base, install the bulb and reverse the process above. Start the car and see if it works OK. Then you are all set.
     
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How to Fix Car Bumper Trim a Cheap Easy Lazy Repair

Easy Way to Fix that Fender

By TurtleDog

Fix Car Bumper Trim a Cheap Easy Lazy Repair

There are a number of problems you can have with your automobile bumper trim. One case is where one end of the front trim detail is falling or sagging down. Here's the ultimate simple way to repair it and will save you money on auto body repair. Read on to learn How to Fix Car Bumper Trim a Cheap Easy Lazy Repair

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     First, take your hand and press the trim of your car's bumper back up into the bottom of the bumper so it is no longer falling or sagging down
   • 2
     Then observe how the trim detail and automobile bumper fit together. In this case, the trim completely tore from the bolt holding it to the bumper / fender. It tore out so badly, I am not able to bolt it back on to the car bumper. That won't stop us here though.... we want to do some cheap or even free auto body repair here
   • 3
     Ultimately, we are going to clamp it back together. If you look closely along the wheel well, closest to the pavement, you can see the detail trim fits snug against the bumper as shown. This area I am pinching is the area we will clamp
   • 4
     Now for the secret ingredient. Grab yourself some heavy duty stationary clips. If you have something else you can substitute at home, great, but these are good because they are small and pinch real hard. If you have a variety of sizes, grab a few sizes and go outside to your automobile
   • 5
     Pick out the right size and then clip it on the car as shown. Keep the clip handles in toward the inside-underside of the car .
   • 6
     

     There! You've fixed your car bumper without the need for expensive parts or an automotive body shop repair. This won't necessarily be the right fix for everyone, but it's a start. Thanks for reading my How To Fix Car Bumper Trim a Cheap Easy Lazy Repair
     
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How to Remove A Hubcap / Hub Cap from Car

Take Hub Caps off Automobile

By TurtleDog

Remove A Hubcap / Hub Cap from Car

Hi! This is pretty easy. This article is for those with hub caps that simply pry off. Read on to learn how to Remove A Hubcap / Hub Cap from Car

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     First, look at your hub cap and determine if this hub cap is simply pryed off or if you have to remove screws. See the one above? At first glance it appears you need to remove screws. But it turns out the screws are fake. This is a pry off hub cap.
   • 2
     If it is one where you need to remove screws, you'll need to find your special wrench, likely located in your trunk with your spare, so you can first remove the screws. This special wrench is required as it prevents easy theft of expensive hub caps.
   • 3
     The hubcap / hub cap shown is, well, rather cheap and beat up so let's remove it. It is a pry off version (the bolts are fake)
   • 4
     Find a large flat screw driver or anything you can pry with.
   • 5
     Stick it between the rim on the tire and the hub cap
   • 6
     Gently pry the hub cap from the rim, one section at a time. Working either clock wise or counter clockwise around the hub cap until removed. Be sure to be gentle as possible. Don't try to remove the whole thing on your first pry. See the damage to the hub cap? That was caused by an over zealous removal :-)
   • 7
     That's it! Thanks for reading my How to Remove A Hubcap / Hub Cap from Car
     
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How to Change an Automobile Air Filter in Your Car

Changing to New Auto Engine Air Filters

By TurtleDog

Change an Air Filter

Hi! I am no mechanic, but I've discovered that even an 'all thumbs' guy like me can change an air filter for a car. Car air filters remove debris from the air, before the air enters your engine. A clean air filter is important for fuel efficiency and a smooth running car.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Phillips head screw driver
• New air filter

1. • 1
     OK, go to any auto parts store and ask the clerk where the automotive air filters are.
   • 2
     Go to the air filter aisle. Be sure you know your car's make, model and year (ie 1995 Honda Civic DX). If you aren't sure, bring your owner's manual in with you. If you don't have that, ask the clerk if he or she can identify your car.
   • 3
     There should be a catalogue in the air filter aisle. Look up your car's make, model and year in the catalogue. The air filter part number specific to your car will be shown. Be sure to only use a serial number that matches your car. Anything else either won't fit or won't work. Match the part number to the correct filter on the shelf and buy it.
   • 4
     When you get home, turn off the car and open the hood. My car is a 1995 Honda Civic so things may look different in your engine. Find the compartment that houses your air filter.
   • 5
     Using a Philips head screw driver, unscrew the air filter housing so you can remove the top. Some cars it might just be a clamp so yours may differ.
   • 6
     Remove the top
   • 7
     Remove the old air filter simply by lifting it out. Throw in trash.
   • 8
     Put new air filter in and screw the lid down.
   • 9
     I hope that helps. It is real easy to do, real good for your car, and doing it yourself saves the unnecessary time and expense of going to the mechanic.
     
     
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How to Get Moving with a Dead Car Battery

Get a car battery started without any mechanical ability.

 

By TurtleDog, 

Have you ever walked out to your car only to find the battery dead? Maybe you know it's a dead battery because you left your lights on or you simply know your battery is shot. Either way you'll need to get moving. Read on to learn how to get moving with a dead car battery .

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

• 1
  OK, first, I won't waste your time suggesting using jumper cables. There's a million articles on that subject that are more in depth. Dwelling on that would be like reinventing oxygen :-) Please read on for more ideas....
• 2
  If your battery is dead because you left the lights on, there may still be a small charge left in the battery to get you started. Turn off all lights, the cabin light, unplug the cell phone charger and all accessories. Do NOT try turning the car on right away. Let it sit for about 10 or 15 minutes and give it a try. This doesn't work often but did for me once.
• 3
  Is your battery real old? Are you handy? Borrow another car and buy a new battery and install it yourself. If you are real strong and the store is real close, grab a study backpack and walk over to the store if you are in a real pinch. Careful though. Batteries are real heavy.
• 4
  Do you have auto 'rental' insurance on your auto policy? If so, most insurance companies include roadside assistance. You may have it and not know it. Call your insurance company. They'll send a guy out to charge your battery.
• 5
  Do you have any other roadside assistance? Are you a AAA member? If so, call them for help.
• 6
  If you are in a real jam and no one can help, contact your local mechanic. They'll refer you to a service that can help you for a fee. If they aren't busy they may even send one of their own guys out.

Regardless how you get your car started, do not turn your car off right away. Be sure to drive it around town or keep it running for 10 minutes or so. This will allow the alternater of the car to assist with getting the battery charged again.

• 7              
• Thanks for reading " How to Get Moving with a Dead Car Battery " I really hope that helps. Thanks!
• 
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  Your Radio Stolen From Your Automobile? Here's What To Do

  
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How to Handle Your Car / Truck Radio Being Stolen

What to do when your car is robbed, burglarized, broken into, whatever you want to call it :-)

By TurtleDog, eHow User

You come outside, you are in a rush to get somewhere, you hop into your car and wham! You notice that your radio has been stolen! Here's what you'll need to know....

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1
     Don't try to straighten up the car or fix anything yet. First thing you want to do is call the police.
   • 2
     The police will come either very quickly or after a long, long time depending on where you are. Don't fret if you have to wait. Having your car broken into may feel like a major crime, but it's really very routine to the police and not a call that requires urgency.
   • 3
     If you are really in a hurry and don't feel like calling the police, check with your insurance company to see if contacting the police and filing a report is necessary. It might not be. That said, it is always a good idea to notify authorities regardless of insurance regulations.
   • 4
     The police may or may not check for finger prints. My car has been broken into 3 times (yeah, I have bad luck :-) and the police only checked prints once. Even then, the police officer admitted taking prints was only a 'dog and pony show'.
   • 5
     The police will ask you to write down everything that is missing and give them your notes right there. If you don't have time, or need to compose yourself, ask the police officer if there is a number you can fax the list to later or if you can drop it off at the station later. They may not let you do that, but it's worth a try.
   • 6
     Contact your insurance agent/insurance company. They'll ask you a number of questions about the condition of the car, etc. and they'll also ask that you see their insurance claims adjuster. The claims adjuster will look at your car and determine the extent of damage.
   • 7
     Your insurance company may tell you that you won't get much money or that only certain items such as things actually bolted to the car are insured. Don't be discouraged and drop the claim. SEE THE CLAIMS ADJUSTER REGARDLESS. Every time I saw the adjuster I got way more money than what my insurance agent lead me to believe
   • 8
     You'll probably have a choice of having the adjuster come out and visit your car (ie while you are at home or at work, etc) but that may take up to a few weeks. The faster way is to go out and visit the claims adjuster. Most are located at local auto body shops and your auto insurance company will tell you the closest location.
   • 9
     Another important point.... if you do any repairs to the car, no matter how minor, remember the time it took you and save your receipt. For some bizarre reason a radio thief also stole one of my spark plug wires (yep..spark plug wire). I went to an auto parts store and replaced it. I figured about 1 hour's worth of work between going to the store and doing the work. My insurance Co paid me $25, plus the cost of the wire for 1 hour of work.
   • 10
     You'll go to the claims adjuster. He'll look over the damage and give you a check right there less your deductible. Be sure to point out all the damage and let him know everything that is missing. Some of the items might not be covered but don't assume it isn't. Tell him or her anyway.
   • 11
     Believe me, you'll never get your radio and things back. Just be sure to be honest, take good notes, call the police, call your insurance company and be REAL nice to the claims adjuster.
     
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How to Walk To Work to Save Gas Money

Get better car MPG by simply walking to work for a change. You can live without the automobile :-)

By TurtleDog

Walk To Work to Save Gas Money

Hi! Walking to work is a great way to save money on gas, spare your car wear and tear, and will give you great exercise. The biggest obstacle is that people don't think walking to work is possible. Read on to learn how to walk to work to save gas money .

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Good sneakers
• Good motivation
• Desire to save a few bucks :-)

1. • 1
     Let's be honest, those of you who live 10 miles from work won't find this article useful, particularly on a regular basis unless you are a serious hiker. Those of you who are within say 5 miles or whatever you can tolerate, keep reading...
   • 2
     Most accidents occur within 10 miles of home) and are hard on the car. If you are in good health, you can walk these distances no problem, in even less time than you think .... here's how...
   • 3
     First, get yourself motivated. Maybe it's a nice day, so remind yourself of that. How often do you get outside and really walk a good stretch? Think of how healthy the activity is. Think of how invigorated you'll be. Think of how there is no way you'll have a car accident today. Think of how much gas you'll save...no mileage on the car...no wearing out the breaks .... etc
   • 4
     Determine if you have enough time to walk to work. There are several opinions on the average human walking speed. I've heard 2-3, 3 and 3-4 miles per hour. So figure on the low side, 2-3 miles per hour. Divide the distance it takes you in a car by 2.5 and your have an approximate time.
   • 5
     Don't fret if that seems like a lot of time, keep reading before you give up.... :-)
   • 6
     Plan your route and cut down your distance. This is the part where you really reduce time and distance. The shortest distance between two points is a Straight Line. Don't walk the same route that you drive in your car. That is, get off the road if necessary. Cut through anywhere that is legal in order to stay on a straight line to work. Walk through a park, behind a shopping center, across a parking lot. Just stay on a straight line. You'll be surprised at the time you make.
   • 7
     Avoid walking on right angles as well. Say your are on a sidewalk that runs along a grass ball field. Instead of walking down the side walk, turning left at the corner and continuing on the sidewalk, opt to cut straight across the field! You'll save time. Every little bit adds up quickly.
   • 8
     Wear a good pair of sneakers. You'll be more comfortable and your legs will feel lighter. If work doesn't allow sneakers, bring a light backpack and stow your work shoes in. A good pair of sneakers will make your feet feel lighter and more comfortable
   • 9
     Invest in a lightweight backpack. Think about what you would want if the weather turns sour. Bring a compact umbrella in case it rains. Bring a light rain jacket. Bring a change of shirt and deodorant if it is sticky hot out. Gloves and hat for the cold. Bring a water bottle for dry thirst, etc.
   • 10
     Also pack what you think you might need when you get to work. A comb and washcloth might help you freshen up. A change of shoes, socks or shirt. Pack your lunch. Pack a snack. Whatever you think you need.
   • 11
     Remember to also bring any work supplies you may normally keep in your car....
   • 12
     Whatever you do, be sure to try it. The worst thing that will happen is that you'll do it once, save money on gas, get a good workout, and hate it. You've lost nothing. If you like it, you'll gain so much more over time. Get out there and enjoy.

Where Can I FInd a New Car Window Handle Crank ? Learn Here

Anyone can replace a broken car window crank. If you find that thing that you grab when you roll down your car window to be broken, don't race off and waste your money at an auto repair shop.  The local car mechanic is not the answer here.

Many car window cranks can be found at auto repair stores. There is typically a section of the store dedicated just for these handles or cranks. The come in a variety of colors or sizes.  If you find that the store does not have the 'roll up' handle you need, they can typically order one for you.

You might be able to save some money by going to a junk yard and finding a new or definitely used handle. For an item this cheap though, you might wind up paying as much at the junk yard as you would just ordering it new yourself. That said, some junk yards are as sophisticated as many auto parts stores with computer indexed inventory, new parts, good service, etc.

Another option, and I have replaced two window crank handles using this method, is buying them on line.  I bought both of mine on eBay but there are other sites out there  as well that can provide you with a door handle crank to fit your exact needs.

When buying a window crank, you'll need to remember a few things. I'll list them below. If need be, take some notes first before going to the store or checking online.  Here they are:

1. Know the make of your car

2. Know the model of your car

3. Know the year of your car

4. Check out the color of your old handle. Actually... this is important.  I swore I had a gray window crank only to discover after I bought it that I really needed a black crank.  I put it on anyway, my car is really old.

If you want to learn how to install the window crank, I did an article on this very topic and linked it here as well as below. Check it out!

Repair and Replace Window Crank Handle on Car Door