June 7th, 2008 by Hal Moses
Many motorists don’t realize that a little bit of routine maintenance can keep you free of expensive car repairs. And most maintenance takes no more time than refilling the fluid for your windshield wipers. Here are a few tips to help keep drivers safe and free of trouble.
Make sure to change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, you should check your oil at least once a month. You want the oil line on your dipstick to be between the marker lines. If the oil looks dirty or black, it is time to have it changed.
If you’re having trouble shifting gears you are probably having transmission problems. Check the level of the transmission fluid to determine if it is low. Low transmission fluid could indicate a leak. You should refill it with the lubricant your car recommends. If you see leaking on your driveway take your car to a mechanic.
Also, check your coolant levels. You should have your radiator flushed every two years and change your coolant. In addition, make sure your radiator is corrosion free.
Finally, check your tire pressure every two weeks. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct pressure, and fill your tires accordingly. Remember, both overinflation and underinflation affect safety and fuel efficiency, so it is important to maintain tire pressure.
These simple maintenance tips can keep you from having major, costly repairs. However, it is important to purchase an auto warranty because you don’t want to be faced with unnecessary expenses down the road.
June 5th, 2008 by Hal Moses
Consumers are looking to the Internet to purchase cars, an auto warranty, as well as auto loans. Now, there is a whole new level for vehicle searching because of the search engine, Autoopia, autoopia.com. Just like Google revolutionized how people perform general searches, Autoopia has revolutionized how people search for vehicles. This search engine uses an interface that is clean and simple that allows for consumers to perform easy car searches.
To do this, they gather car listings and ads from thousands of sources online. Their database is growing constantly and lists vehicles in the millions. A big bonus to their site is that consumers can perform searches that are saved automatically, allowing them to come back to the site later and review the results that they had previously.
Viewers get a great first impression of the site due to the smooth interface, and they keep coming back for more because of the impressive search results. Another plus is that consumers only receive results from the specific make and model that they were looking for, not any others.
Shopping online has become a great way to find vehicles, and Autoopia is an ideal search engine to use. Motorists can find great car deals, and then shop around for auto loans and new car warranties. The Internet is revolutionizing access to the auto market.
June 5th, 2008 by Hal Moses
When it comes time to buy a family vehicle, there are many considerations. First, you have to think about having plenty of seats and cargo space so your family is comfortable. Next, you need to find a car with good fuel-efficiency, low maintenance costs, dependability and most importantly, safety. That is a lot to ask of any car, and with all of the options out there, which car should you purchase? Here are some top picks.
Unexpectedly, the Suzuki XL7 is a great overall SUV. You can get this car fully loaded for $29,000 with a fantastic auto warranty. It comes complete with all-wheel drive, a DVD system, power everything, leather seats, and a 3.6-liter V6. It also has a curvy exterior with a sporty, modern look.
If you’re looking for a great sporty sedan, the VW Passat is an excellent choice. This car ranges from $23,915 to $39,140. The Passat has excellent style, drivability, fuel-efficiency, and of course price. In addition, it has a lot of high tech features, and the safety rating is excellent.
Crossovers are all the rage, and the Mazda CX-7 is a great family vehicle in this category. With a $23,750 base price, the CX-7 has room for five people, as well as a striking appearance. Its drivability is excellent with its 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection. This cars interior is classy, modern and comfortable.
Finding an ideal family vehicle can be challenging. It is important to do your homework to find the vehicle that suits your family the most. Also, your new vehicle should have an auto warranty that will protect your against unnecessary repair expenses down the road.
June 5th, 2008 by Hal Moses
OK, it’s definitely official: Hybrid cars are the wave of the future. With gas prices over $4 per gallon and oil at approximately $100 a barrel, we need to save on fuel costs. And, global warming and the air quality concerns make it a good time to take the plunge. But, which hybrid should you buy? Here are some factors to consider.
First of all, determine the size of vehicle that you need. If you need a lot of cargo room and are dead set on an SUV, there are many now to choose from. However, you have to realize that even the SUVs that are the most fuel-efficient hybrids aren’t going to be as fuel-efficient as standard gas powered sedans, due to their size, as well as the size of their engines.
Also, you need to consider style. Some motorists claim that the Toyota Prius is the ugliest thing they have ever seen, while others love it. And people who are environmentally minded like the style of the Prius because it calls attention to itself being a ‘green’ car. However, if you like a more conventional car style, you might be happiest with the Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, or Ford Escape.
It is time to stop relying on fossil fuels, and hybrid cars are a good way to do that. The type of hybrid you decide on is up to you, so make sure to do your homework and determine which hybrid will suit you the best. In addition, research new car warranties to protect yourself from unnecessary repair expenses. Hybrids may be technologically advanced, but they still break down like all other cars.
June 4th, 2008 by Hal Moses
People become irrational about their cars. They treat them as if they are their babies and give them affectionate wash and wax jobs on the weekends. Some drivers even talk to their vehicles and give them a pat here and there. But as much as our cars mean to us, we don’t need to waste money on them. Here are some common ways that drivers waste money on their cars.
First of all, buying premium fuel over regular isn’t necessary. Purchase the cheapest gas possible that keeps your engine from knocking. Octane serves the purpose of preventing knock, so if your car doesn’t knock with regular gasoline you’re fine.
Usually, auto manufacturers recommend that you change your oil every 5,000-7,000 miles. Many motorists assume that they should get their oil changed every 3,000 miles, however, this should be done only if you put a lot of wear and tear on your car.
Also, having auto repairs done at a dealership will cost you. Instead, find a reliable independent shop to do the job for less money. In addition, it is a good idea to have an auto warranty to avoid unnecessary costs down the road.
Following these simple tips can save you lots of money. Don’t allow other people to talk you into paying expenses for your vehicle that are unnecessary.
June 3rd, 2008 by Hal Moses
Used cars are a great option for car shoppers because cars today have such good quality that they last longer. This allows motorists to enjoy a car that someone else has already owned. Some advocates of used cars like to say that a used car is just a model that’s already been broken in.
In many cases, a used vehicle will serve your needs just fine. Maybe you need to buy a car for your teenager who will no doubt bend a few fenders along the way. Or perhaps you need a truck that will take you on weekend getaways. In these cases, you can enjoy the low price of a used vehicle that you are only going to drive occasionally.
A large amount of the value of a used car comes from the fact that previous owners have already paid for the depreciation costs. Depreciation is the largest ownership cost. However, it is important to remember that certain vehicles depreciate at a slower rate. For example, Acura and Lexus cars depreciate at a slower rate than average. In addition, BMWs depreciate slowly because the demand on the market exceeds their supply. Cars, such as the Ford Taurus depreciate at a quick rate since they are often used in the fleets of rental cars.
Purchasing a used vehicle is a great option if you do your homework. Make sure to research the most reliable used vehicles that will retain their value. In addition, purchase an auto warranty for peace of mind.
June 3rd, 2008 by Hal Moses
In today’s world, the divide between new and used cars are less distinct because of certified pre-owned programs that manufacturers support. Now, consumers can purchase luxury vehicles that appear to be brand new.
Mercedes Benz was the first auto manufacturer to offer a certification program that was comprehensive in 1989. Lexus then began a certified pre-owned program in 1993, and since then over 30 car manufacturers have introduced similar programs.
Buying a pre-owned vehicle is now a savvy alternative that allows motorists to minimize their risk and maximize their value. That’s because these programs take the hottest pre-owned vehicles, recondition them, add an auto warranty, and sell them. No matter what your budget is, you will enjoy spending less money on a depreciating asset. This allows you to put your cash towards a better use, such as maintenance costs and an extended auto warranty.
The certified-pre owned car market has revolutionized the car market. Consumers are realizing that they can get a luxury vehicle that is like new, complete with an auto warranty and peace of mind. This is a great option for any car shopper.
June 3rd, 2008 by Hal Moses
Today, there are many options when purchasing a vehicle. You can buy new, used or certified pre-owned. However, many people just love the feeling of having that new car. How do you know if a new car is right for you?
If you are one of those people who take great pride in the ownership of your vehicle, or have the first kid on the block syndrome, you should probably purchase a new car. In addition to ownership pride, you will also be equipped with the newest car technologies, which will provide you with safety and comfort. Also, new cars come with an auto warranty that brings owners peace of mind.
New vehicles also give back practical returns to those people who push their cars to the max and wear them out. If you are logging a large amount of miles or hold onto a car for at least five years you should purchase the vehicle that you really want. Also, if you are planning to customize your car with the transmission and engine, as well as other accessories and options to suit your style, you should buy new.
Let’s face it, there is no feeling like owning a new car and knowing that you aren’t inheriting any one else’s problems. Buying a new car is a great way to go for people who have the funds. In addition, new car warranties that come with new cars give you great peace of mind.
June 1st, 2008 by Hal Moses
Safety and reliability should be top considerations when purchasing a car for a teenager. After all, teens are new drivers and lack experience. To determine which cars are safe, you should look at results from crash tests and advanced safety features. Also, make sure the car comes with a sufficient auto warranty, because teens tend to put more wear and tear on a vehicle.
Typically, vehicles that are big and heavy rate the best in crash tests. However, large vehicles are much harder to maneuver and tend to be gas-guzzlers. Also keep in mind that SUVs and large pickups aren’t wise choices for teens because they have a higher roll over rate in accidents.
A mid-size sedan with good safety features and crash ratings is an overall wise choice for teens. Vehicles with these features include the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Hyundai Sonata, Acura RSX, Mazda 3 and Subaru Impreza.
When purchasing a vehicle for a teenager, try to get the newest possible model that offers reliability. To see crash test results; consult the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Also, make sure you have an auto warranty so you don’t have to pay unnecessary repair expenses down the road.
June 1st, 2008 by Hal Moses
Many people enjoy owning minivans because they offer various options for carrying cargo and passengers. Depending on your needs, you can configure minivans in a variety of different ways. Also, minivans now come with climate control in dual zones, as well as DVD systems. These features offer great appeal to buyers, especially families.
There is tons of interior room in minivans, which allows for plenty of leg and headroom. Also convenient are the models that have sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle, making it quick and easy to get in and out.
Minivans allow enough seating for up to eight passengers. The ones that is equipped for seven passengers typically have captain’s chairs, not a bench. The Honda Odyssey offers even more flexibility in seating by having a center seat that can be removed.
If you need a vehicle that has flexibility in seating and cargo space, minivans are a great option. They have numerous features that make for a comfortable, convenient ride. However, no matter what vehicle you decide to purchase, make sure you get new car warranties to protect yourself from unforeseen repairs.