An aftermarket modification designed for a selected automobile mannequin and yr, this meeting enhances floor clearance and alters the automobile’s stance. It usually contains parts like coil spacers, leaf spring shackles, or full suspension replacements, affecting journey peak and accommodating bigger tires.
The modification gives improved off-road capabilities by rising the strategy, departure, and break-over angles. It will probably present an aesthetic enchantment by means of an elevated profile and the opportunity of putting in bigger wheels and tires. Early adopters typically sought enhanced performance for traversing difficult terrains, resulting in the event of assorted kits with differing raise heights and development qualities.
Contemplating the choices obtainable for this automobile, key points to judge embrace the meant use, funds constraints, and desired raise peak. Investigating various kinds of kits, set up procedures, and potential results on automobile dealing with is paramount for making an knowledgeable determination.
1. Experience Peak Adjustment
The alteration of a automobile’s vertical place relative to the bottom represents a elementary side of car modification. When contemplating a change to a 1999 GMC Yukon, the implications of this adjustment lengthen far past mere aesthetics. It touches upon performance, efficiency, and even the automobile’s general character.
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Floor Clearance Augmentation
Elevated distance between the chassis and the terrain interprets on to enhanced functionality in off-road environments. Rocks, ruts, and uneven surfaces that when posed a big impediment change into extra manageable. A ’99 Yukon geared up on this method can navigate paths beforehand inaccessible, increasing its potential functions in leisure and utility settings. This functionality comes at a value nonetheless; the automobile’s heart of gravity is raised, which may impression dealing with, particularly throughout emergency maneuvers.
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Tire Lodging
The visible enchantment of bigger tires is usually a driving issue behind elevating a automobile. This adaptation goes past the purely beauty. Bigger diameter tires enhance the automobile’s efficient ultimate drive ratio, bettering traction and probably mitigating the decreased acceleration related to the bigger rolling circumference. The choice of outsized tires should, nonetheless, be approached with care, since clearance points can come up in areas past simply the vertical aircraft. Inside fender wells and suspension parts are potential interference factors.
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Suspension Geometry Alteration
Modifying the manufacturing unit journey peak inherently modifications the angles and relationships between suspension parts. Ball joints, tie rod ends, and management arm bushings are all subjected to altered stress patterns. Whereas many programs are designed to compensate for these alterations, a complete understanding of the brand new working parameters is crucial. Failure to deal with these components can result in accelerated put on and compromised dealing with traits, impacting security and journey high quality.
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Aesthetic Transformation
The impression of lifted stance can’t be ignored. The visible transformation from manufacturing unit configuration to an elevated, extra aggressive posture is usually the first motivation. A raised profile instructions consideration, projecting a picture of rugged functionality and individuality. This subjective side carries important weight within the decision-making course of, influencing the alternatives made concerning element choice and general execution.
In essence, altering the bottom clearance of a ’99 GMC Yukon represents a multifaceted enterprise. A seemingly easy adjustment has far-reaching penalties, impacting all the things from off-road efficiency to on-road dealing with and even the automobile’s visible identification. Prudent consideration of those interconnected components is essential for reaching a balanced and passable end result.
2. Suspension Element Alternative
The story of modifying a ’99 GMC Yukon typically pivots across the crucial act of changing suspension parts. One does not merely elevate the chassis; one essentially alters the very structure of the automobile’s interplay with the highway, or, extra probably, the path. A raise package, in its essence, is simply as dependable as the inspiration upon which it rests: the changed, strengthened, or augmented suspension parts. Think about the inventory suspension, designed for manufacturing unit journey peak and meant utilization. Making an attempt to drastically enhance journey peak with out addressing these underlying parts invitations untimely put on, compromised dealing with, and, in excessive circumstances, catastrophic failure. A lifted Yukon, straining below the burden of outsized tires, traversing a rocky panorama, serves as a stark reminder of what occurs when unique tools is pushed past its designed limits. The springs sag, the shocks backside out, and the management arms bind, reworking a succesful machine right into a lumbering legal responsibility.
The spectrum of substitute is huge. Easy coil spacers would possibly present modest raise, however do little to deal with the elevated pressure on shocks or the altered geometry of management arms. A extra complete strategy includes fully new shocks, designed for the elevated journey and journey peak. Heavy-duty springs compensate for the added weight of bigger tires and equipment. Prolonged sway bar hyperlinks appropriate geometry, preserving dealing with stability. Bolstered management arms, fabricated from stronger supplies, face up to the elevated stress of off-road use. Every element performs a task in sustaining the integrity of the modified system. The cautious choice and integration of those components symbolize the distinction between a lifted truck that conjures up confidence and one which elicits trepidation with each bump within the highway.
In conclusion, suspension element substitute shouldn’t be merely an ancillary step in putting in a raise; it’s the linchpin upon which all the modification hinges. It is a narrative of reinforcement, adaptation, and accountable engineering. Overlooking the foundational significance of those components transforms a possible improve right into a recipe for catastrophe, undermining the very advantages sought by altering the automobile’s journey peak. The story of a lifted ’99 GMC Yukon is, at its core, the story of its suspension.
3. Off-Street Efficiency
For a 1999 GMC Yukon, the promise of enhanced off-road efficiency is inextricably linked to the set up of a raise. The narrative begins with limitations. A inventory Yukon, whereas succesful on tame trails, faces inherent constraints. Floor clearance restricts its skill to traverse obstacles; manufacturing unit tires lack the aggressive tread needed for critical traction. It’s inside this context of limitations {that a} raise emerges as a transformative intervention. The elevated journey peak immediately interprets to improved strategy, departure, and break-over angles, permitting the automobile to navigate tougher terrain. Bigger, extra aggressive tires claw for buy the place normal tires would spin uselessly. The story unfolds because the Yukon, as soon as confined to graded roads, ventures onto rock-strewn paths and thru muddy bogs, its capabilities considerably expanded.
Nonetheless, the connection between a raise and off-road prowess shouldn’t be computerized. It’s contingent on cautious planning and execution. A poorly chosen or improperly put in package can degrade, fairly than improve, efficiency. A raise that neglects to deal with suspension geometry can result in bump steer and instability. Outsized tires with out applicable gearing can pressure the drivetrain. The skilled off-roader understands this nuance, deciding on parts that complement one another and tailoring the setup to particular wants. One would possibly recall the story of a ’99 Yukon, fitted with a cheap raise and large tires, struggling to climb a seemingly average hill. The motive force, inexperienced and ill-prepared, blamed the automobile, failing to acknowledge that the constraints stemmed not from the Yukon itself, however from the mismatched parts and insufficient preparation. Conversely, the story of a well-equipped Yukon effortlessly navigating a difficult path serves as a testomony to the transformative potential of a correctly executed raise.
The pursuit of off-road efficiency by means of modification is a journey of understanding trigger and impact. A raise supplies the inspiration, however the final end result is dependent upon the considerate choice and integration of parts. It’s a reminder that true functionality arises not merely from elevated journey peak, however from a holistic strategy that considers the interaction between suspension, tires, gearing, and driver talent. The story of a lifted ’99 GMC Yukon is, in essence, a unbroken exploration of the steadiness between modification and accountable utility.
4. Tire Dimension Compatibility
The transformation of a 1999 GMC Yukon typically includes an important intersection: the choice of a raise package and the next selection of appropriate tires. The story of this modification hinges on understanding the fragile steadiness between desired aesthetics, useful efficiency, and the mechanical limitations of the automobile. A raise, in its essence, creates the area; the tires fill it, figuring out the ultimate stance and functionality. Nonetheless, merely putting in the biggest potential tires isn’t the optimum answer. The narrative is way extra nuanced, demanding cautious consideration of a number of interconnected components.
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Diameter and Clearance
Probably the most fast concern is guaranteeing that the chosen tires match throughout the obtainable wheel wells and suspension parts. Exceeding these limits invitations rubbing, binding, and potential injury. The reminiscence of a ’99 Yukon, its outsized tires tearing on the fender liners with each flip, serves as a cautionary story. Calculating the utmost allowable tire diameter, contemplating each raise peak and wheel offset, is paramount. Failing to take action transforms a modification right into a harmful train.
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Width and Steering Geometry
Past diameter, the width of the tire considerably impacts steering and dealing with. A tire that’s too huge can intervene with management arms or sway bar hyperlinks, limiting steering vary and creating undesirable stress on these parts. Furthermore, extreme width can alter the scrub radius, resulting in elevated steering effort and potential instability. The legend persists of a Yukon, its steering rendered sluggish and imprecise by excessively huge tires, a testomony to the significance of sustaining correct geometry.
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Load Score and Utility
Tire dimension compatibility extends past bodily dimensions to embody load-carrying capability. Bigger tires are sometimes chosen for his or her aggressive look, however their load score should be adequate to help the burden of the automobile, particularly when loaded with passengers and cargo. Selecting tires with an insufficient load score compromises security and accelerates tire put on. The cautionary story of a Yukon, its overloaded tires failing below the pressure of a heavy load, underscores the significance of adhering to really useful specs.
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Gearing and Powertrain
Lastly, tire dimension influences the general gearing of the automobile. Bigger diameter tires successfully elevate the gear ratio, lowering acceleration and probably straining the drivetrain. Whereas this may be mitigated by re-gearing the axles, such a modification provides complexity and expense. Understanding the impression of tire dimension on powertrain efficiency is crucial for reaching a balanced and useful setup. The saga of a Yukon, its engine laboring to beat the taller gearing imposed by outsized tires, serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of those programs.
The method of choosing tires for a lifted ’99 GMC Yukon is a story of balancing aspiration with accountability. It is a story of understanding the constraints of the automobile and the potential penalties of exceeding these limits. A profitable modification shouldn’t be merely about reaching an aggressive stance; it is about making a harmonious system the place aesthetics, performance, and security coexist. The sensible modifier views this course of as a posh equation, the place every variable should be fastidiously thought of to realize the specified end result.
5. Set up Complexity
The endeavor of enhancing a ’99 GMC Yukon with a raise reveals a spectrum of technical challenges. The seemingly simple purpose of elevated floor clearance belies a multifaceted course of demanding a spread of expertise and assets. From the novice weekend mechanic to the seasoned skilled, the intricacies of set up function an important determinant of undertaking success.
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Element Disassembly and Reassembly
The preliminary part typically includes dismantling present suspension parts. Rust-welded bolts, seized ball joints, and cussed springs can rework a easy activity right into a irritating ordeal. The narrative of a house mechanic, battling a corroded sway bar hyperlink for hours, serves as a typical instance. Correct instruments, penetrating oils, and persistence are important for navigating this part with out inflicting injury or damage. The reassembly course of then calls for precision, guaranteeing that every one parts are torqued to specification and correctly aligned to forestall untimely put on and preserve automobile security.
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Suspension Geometry Alterations
Lifting a Yukon alters the unique suspension geometry, probably affecting dealing with and stability. Correcting these modifications typically requires specialised data and instruments. Putting in drop brackets, adjustable management arms, or monitor bars can compensate for the altered angles, however calls for cautious measurement and adjustment. The story of a lifted Yukon exhibiting bump steer, a disconcerting steering anomaly brought on by improper geometry, highlights the significance of addressing these components. Failure to take action can compromise automobile management and enhance the chance of accidents.
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Brake Line and ABS Concerns
Growing journey peak necessitates extending brake strains to accommodate the elevated suspension journey. Neglecting this crucial step can result in snapped strains and a catastrophic lack of braking energy. Equally, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) depends on sensors that will require recalibration after a raise is put in. The recollection of a Yukon, its ABS malfunctioning after a raise, serves as a reminder of the potential for unintended penalties. Addressing these components ensures that braking efficiency stays optimum and that the security programs operate as meant.
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Alignment and Calibration Necessities
Put up-installation, an expert wheel alignment is crucial to make sure correct tire put on and dealing with. Altering the suspension angles invariably impacts alignment parameters, requiring exact changes to camber, caster, and toe. Moreover, some autos could require recalibration of digital stability management (ESC) programs to compensate for the raise. The picture of a lifted Yukon, its tires sporting inconsistently resulting from a misaligned suspension, underscores the significance of this ultimate step. A correctly aligned automobile handles predictably, maximizes tire life, and ensures a secure and comfy driving expertise.
The set up of a ’99 GMC Yukon raise represents a spectrum of technical challenges, starting from primary mechanical duties to complicated geometric changes. Every step calls for cautious consideration to element, correct instruments, and an intensive understanding of the automobile’s suspension system. The complexity of the method underscores the significance of both possessing the mandatory expertise and assets or entrusting the set up to a certified skilled. The final word reward is a Yukon that not solely appears to be like the half but in addition performs safely and reliably, each on and off the highway.
6. Automobile Dealing with Impression
The alteration of a 1999 GMC Yukon by means of the set up of a raise package invariably units in movement a sequence of modifications affecting the automobile’s dealing with dynamics. The unique engineering, meticulously calibrated for a selected heart of gravity, suspension geometry, and tire dimension, faces a deliberate disruption. The repercussions of this modification, whereas typically meant to boost off-road functionality and aesthetics, can considerably alter the automobile’s habits on paved surfaces. The narrative unfolds because the predictable, if considerably unremarkable, dealing with traits of the inventory Yukon are changed by a brand new set of operational parameters, demanding a reassessment of driver expectations and automobile limitations.
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Middle of Gravity Shift
Elevating the chassis raises the middle of gravity, rising the automobile’s susceptibility to physique roll throughout cornering. The story of a lifted Yukon, its driver misjudging a flip and experiencing a disconcerting lean, serves as a stark reminder of this phenomenon. The altered heart of gravity reduces the automobile’s resistance to overturning forces, necessitating a extra cautious strategy to maneuvering. The implications can vary from diminished driver confidence to a heightened danger of dropping management in emergency conditions.
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Suspension Geometry Distortions
Lifting a automobile disrupts the fastidiously engineered angles of the suspension parts, resulting in potential dealing with anomalies. Bump steer, a bent for the steering wheel to show involuntarily because the suspension travels, can change into extra pronounced. Equally, altered camber angles can negatively have an effect on tire put on and scale back cornering grip. The reminiscence of a lifted Yukon, its entrance tires exhibiting untimely put on resulting from incorrect camber, underscores the significance of addressing these geometric distortions. Corrective measures, reminiscent of adjustable management arms and monitor bars, change into important for mitigating these results.
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Steering Response Modifications
The elevated journey peak and potential use of bigger tires can affect steering response and suggestions. Bigger tires, with their elevated contact patch, could require larger steering effort, significantly at low speeds. The narrative persists of a lifted Yukon, its steering feeling heavy and unresponsive, significantly when parking or navigating tight areas. Furthermore, the altered suspension geometry can have an effect on the steering’s sensitivity and precision. A talented driver could adapt to those modifications, however the general driving expertise might be considerably totally different from that of a inventory automobile.
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Braking Efficiency Concerns
The elevated weight and altered suspension dynamics of a lifted Yukon can impression braking efficiency. The upper heart of gravity can exacerbate nostril dive throughout arduous braking, probably lowering stability. Moreover, the bigger tires could require extra pressure to deliver the automobile to a cease. The anecdote of a lifted Yukon, its braking distance noticeably longer than that of a inventory automobile, serves as a cautionary reminder. Upgrading the braking system with bigger rotors, improved calipers, or high-performance brake pads could also be needed to revive braking efficiency to acceptable ranges.
The set up of a raise on a ’99 GMC Yukon initiates a cascade of results that ripple by means of the automobile’s dealing with traits. The pursuit of enhanced off-road functionality and aesthetic enchantment comes with a accountability to grasp and mitigate the potential detrimental impacts on on-road efficiency. Addressing the altered heart of gravity, correcting suspension geometry distortions, and guaranteeing ample braking efficiency are all essential for sustaining a secure and predictable driving expertise. The story of a thoughtfully modified Yukon, its dealing with fastidiously optimized to compensate for the raise, stands as a testomony to the significance of accountable engineering and a dedication to preserving the automobile’s general integrity.
Steadily Requested Questions
The choice to raise a traditional automobile typically raises a bunch of crucial inquiries. These are the questions that echo within the garages and on-line boards, the issues that hang-out the minds of these considering a metamorphosis. Allow us to tackle a number of the most persistent.
Query 1: Will a raise package irrevocably injury the integrity of a ’99 GMC Yukon?
The specter of irreversible injury looms giant. Think about the narrative of a meticulously maintained Yukon, its proprietor hesitant to deviate from the manufacturing unit specs. The important thing lies in discerning the standard of the package and the experience of the installer. A poorly designed or improperly put in package can certainly compromise the automobile’s structural integrity, resulting in untimely put on and potential failure. Nonetheless, a well-engineered package, put in with precision, can improve efficiency with out sacrificing long-term reliability.
Query 2: How drastically will a raise package alter the on-road dealing with traits of a ’99 Yukon?
The attract of off-road prowess typically clashes with the realities of every day driving. The dealing with of a lifted Yukon will inevitably differ from that of a inventory automobile. The upper heart of gravity will increase physique roll, whereas altered suspension geometry can have an effect on steering response. Nonetheless, these modifications might be mitigated by means of cautious element choice {and professional} alignment. The story of a Yukon proprietor, initially dismayed by the altered dealing with, discovering a renewed appreciation after fine-tuning the suspension, serves as a reminder that compromise doesn’t essentially equate to degradation.
Query 3: Are there authorized ramifications related to putting in a raise package on a ’99 Yukon?
The authorized panorama surrounding automobile modifications varies broadly. State and native rules typically dictate most allowable raise heights and tire sizes. Moreover, sure modifications could render a automobile non-compliant with security requirements. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines, failed inspections, and even impoundment. The anecdote of a Yukon proprietor, dealing with authorized repercussions for exceeding the utmost raise peak, underscores the significance of researching and adhering to native legal guidelines.
Query 4: Can a novice mechanic efficiently set up a raise package on a ’99 Yukon?
The attract of saving cash by means of DIY set up is powerful, however the complexities of suspension modifications demand a sure stage of experience. A poorly executed set up can compromise security and result in expensive repairs. Whereas some easier kits could also be throughout the capabilities of a talented beginner, extra complete kits are finest left to skilled professionals. The cautionary story of a Yukon proprietor, trying a posh set up and finally inflicting important injury, serves as a reminder that experience is usually well worth the funding.
Query 5: What’s the anticipated lifespan of parts inside a ’99 Yukon raise package?
The longevity of raise package parts is dependent upon a confluence of things, together with the standard of supplies, the severity of use, and the environmental situations. Excessive-quality parts, subjected to average use in a temperate local weather, can final for a few years. Conversely, cheap parts, subjected to harsh off-road situations, could require frequent substitute. The narrative of a Yukon proprietor, meticulously sustaining his raise package and reaching distinctive longevity, underscores the significance of preventative upkeep and accountable driving habits.
Query 6: How does a raise package have an effect on the gas financial system of a ’99 GMC Yukon?
The legal guidelines of physics dictate that rising journey peak and tire dimension will invariably impression gas effectivity. Bigger tires enhance rolling resistance, whereas the upper heart of gravity will increase aerodynamic drag. The extent of this impression varies relying on the aggressiveness of the tires and the driving model. Nonetheless, it’s cheap to count on a discount in gas financial system after putting in a raise package. The anecdote of a Yukon proprietor, initially dismayed by the decreased mileage however finally accepting it as a trade-off for enhanced off-road functionality, displays the truth of this modification.
In conclusion, the choice to put in a raise package on a ’99 GMC Yukon calls for cautious consideration of potential advantages and disadvantages. Knowledgeable decision-making, primarily based on an intensive understanding of the automobile’s limitations and the implications of modification, is paramount for reaching a passable end result.
Allow us to now transition to a dialogue of particular raise package varieties and their suitability for varied functions.
Important Steerage
The endeavor of modifying a automobile typically walks a tremendous line between aspiration and consequence. The set up of a ’99 GMC Yukon raise package calls for meticulous planning and knowledgeable decision-making. Heed these ideas as guides alongside the trail.
Tip 1: Assess Supposed Use Realistically
The romantic imaginative and prescient of conquering rugged terrain should align with the automobile’s precise deployment. A Yukon primarily confined to paved roads doesn’t require the acute capabilities of a rock-crawling setup. Over-engineering for rare off-road excursions introduces pointless compromises in on-road dealing with and gas financial system. Prioritize suitability over spectacle.
Tip 2: Examine Package High quality Scrutinously
Not all kits are created equal. {The marketplace} abounds with choices of various high quality and development. Choosing the lowest-priced package typically proves a false financial system, resulting in untimely element failure and compromised security. Completely analysis producers, scrutinize opinions, and prioritize kits constructed from sturdy supplies with a confirmed monitor file.
Tip 3: Consider Ancillary Prices Comprehensively
The worth of the package itself represents solely a fraction of the overall funding. Set up prices, alignment charges, tire bills, and potential modifications to braking or steering programs should all be factored into the funds. Failing to account for these ancillary prices can result in surprising monetary pressure and undertaking abandonment. A meticulous evaluation of all related bills is essential for knowledgeable decision-making.
Tip 4: Perceive Suspension Geometry Implications Profoundly
Lifting a automobile disrupts the fragile steadiness of its suspension geometry. Neglecting to deal with these alterations can lead to bump steer, compromised dealing with, and accelerated tire put on. Educate oneself on the ideas of suspension geometry and choose a package that features parts designed to appropriate for these modifications. Skilled alignment is non-negotiable.
Tip 5: Seek the advice of with Skilled Professionals Prudently
The knowledge of those that have traversed this path earlier than is invaluable. Search steerage from skilled mechanics, off-road fanatics, and fellow Yukon house owners. Their insights can present readability, stop expensive errors, and guarantee a profitable end result. Heed their counsel with humility and a willingness to study.
Tip 6: Adhere to Torque Specs Diligently
The tightening of fasteners shouldn’t be a matter of guesswork. Each bolt and nut possesses a selected torque requirement, important for guaranteeing correct element engagement and stopping untimely failure. Spend money on a top quality torque wrench and seek the advice of the producer’s specs meticulously. Neglecting this crucial element can have dire penalties.
Tip 7: Re-evaluate Headlight Alignment After Set up
Lifting a automobile alters the headlight beam angle, probably blinding oncoming visitors and lowering nighttime visibility. After the raise package is put in, re-align the headlights to make sure correct illumination and preserve secure driving situations. Seek the advice of an expert if needed.
The trail to a efficiently modified ’99 GMC Yukon is paved with data, diligence, and a wholesome dose of warning. These ideas function beacons, guiding the way in which towards a metamorphosis that enhances each efficiency and security.
Having laid the groundwork, let’s now take into account the conclusion.
The Legacy Elevated
The exploration of modifying a ’99 GMC Yukon with a raise package reveals a compelling narrative of aspiration assembly engineering. The previous dialogue has traversed issues of journey peak, element decisions, set up complexities, and the next impacts on dealing with and efficiency. The picture of a traditional Yukon, reworked by considerate modification, succesful each on the asphalt and the path, serves as a potent image of automotive evolution.
Nonetheless, the story concludes not with a triumphant fanfare, however with a quiet name to accountable modification. The ’99 GMC Yukon, a automobile steeped in its personal historical past, deserves respect, even in its reimagined type. Could those that select to raise its stance accomplish that with a transparent understanding of the implications, a dedication to high quality, and a unwavering dedication to security. The true legacy lies not merely within the elevated floor clearance, however within the enduring integrity of the automobile itself.
