February 22nd, 2008 by Hal Moses
Most consumers rely on major car hire companies, such as Avis for rentals on vacations or business trips. However, people don’t realize that firms such as these are excellent sources of reasonably priced used cars. Avis’ business is to rent cars but they also sell their cars. Buyers can save big if they purchase a car from Avis instead of traditional dealers. This allows you to put your money towards an auto warranty that will protect your vehicle.
Avis sells cars that are more than one year old, which allows them to make way for more recent models. This ensures that Avis’ fleet is current and well maintained. If certain vehicle models turn out to be very popular, Avis may sell them early, after the vehicle as passed a particular level of mileage.
Another advantage of buying a used vehicle from Avis is that their cars are treated with paint that is metallic. This is usually not the case when dealers sell used cars. Some motorists are hesitant to buy a second-hand car from rental firms because they feel that these vehicles have endured a lot of wear and tear. After all, the cars have been driven frequently and for long distances. However, Avis points out that cars up for sale are younger than six months old and haven’t been driven for more than 13,000 miles. Another bonus is that in some cases, the vehicle’s warranty is still valid. However, it only lasts for about a year, so it is important to shop around for an auto warranty that will protect your investment for longer.
February 22nd, 2008 by Hal Moses
In 1997 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that small vehicles weren’t as safe as large vehicles. Yet, we are in an era of small cars. Making a car small isn’t the only way to reduce emissions and make a vehicle more fuel-efficient. New construction materials that are lighter can perform this feat on larger cars. Actually, making a car lighter improves its safety. A lightweight vehicle is much more nimble than a vehicle that is heavy. This means that drivers are able to avoid accidents. Of course, all drivers want to protect their car with an auto warranty because you never know when an accident might occur.
People tend to assume that the size and weight of a car go hand in hand. An automaker can get rid of the girth of a vehicle easiest by shrinking it. For them, it’s the least expensive way. Strong materials that are light, such as carbon fiber are very expensive. However, some automakers that are high-end are starting to implement it on hoods and roofs. The Smart ForTwo car uses door panels that are plastic. These don’t scratch or ding, and the inner part of the door is reinforced with steel bars. This provides the best protection for a side impact, but is much lighter than a conventional door.
Small car sales are on the rise in the U.S., yet are much slower than the other parts of the world. The Big Three are resisting the push for small vehicles. Currently, the Fit and the Yaris are the top selling subcompacts in America. Customers will have to shell out more money for lightweight, big vehicles, yet it is worth it to be safe. Of course, with any vehicle the best thing that you can do to protect your investment is purchase an auto warranty. Small or big, repairs are costly in any vehicle.
February 21st, 2008 by Hal Moses
The 2008 Hyundai Sonata is a pleasant surprise. It is a peppy, beautiful, well-made car and the price is right. The base price for the Sonata is $17,670. To get the limited model with a four-cylinder engine, an automatic transmission, and heated seats you are only looking at $22,470. This kind of savings allows you to shop around for an auto warranty to protect your investment.
The Sonata’s exterior is actually a dead ringer for the Accord from the previous generation. However, the interior is superb. It has great detailing complete with reverse stitching on the comfortable leather seats. Also ideal is the placement of the dials and gauges.
Another bonus is the Sonata is equipped to handle very well in snow. This is just a front-wheel drive vehicle, yet it is able to keep it’s footing in treacherous conditions.
The Sonata also gets good gas mileage. This is a plus with gas prices on the rise. The four-speed automatic will get approximately 21mpg in city driving and 30 mpg at highway speeds.
All in all the Hyundai Sonata is a solid car with many surprises. It is a peppy, beautiful car with a superb interior. It resembles the Honda Accord, except in price. You will be saving big on this gem. If you purchase the Sonata make sure you protect your investment with an auto warranty. Even though the price is right, you don’t want to shell out extra money in the event of a breakdown.
February 21st, 2008 by Hal Moses
After completing the requirements of a learner’s permit and passing the mandatory road test, teenagers officially have their driver’s license. Of course, at this point a teen must find the perfect car. Most teens actually begin looking for that special car from ages 16-18. Sometimes teens are given their first cars for their birthday or graduation.
Most teenagers don’t even realize how much a car actually costs. Purchasing a vehicle is one of the biggest investments that a person makes. It is important to spend wisely and budget. Some parents require that their teens pay a portion of the monthly car payments. This is a good way for teenagers to become more responsible.
Typically teens will spend $15,000 to $20,000 on their first purchase. They want their vehicles to be equipped with all the bells and whistles. This includes TV screens, DVD players, and stereo systems. They want the car to be “coolâ€. However, teen buyers need to take into account the price of gas, maintenance, insurance, and new car warranties.
Research is important when buying your teen’s first car. Safety and reliability should be key issues to consider. However, whatever you end up purchasing, make sure it is covered by an auto warranty. You want your teenager protected in the event of a breakdown.
February 21st, 2008 by Hal Moses
Nexteppe Business Solutions has just launched a campaign to introduce dealerships to mobile marketing. This is an add-on to the multi-media advertising that already exists. Mobile marketing allows dealers the opportunity to increase interaction with their customers. It also promises to increase sales and revenue in this tough economy.
Predictions say that this year’s sales will be down to approximately 15.6 million. This is a significant decline from 17 million in 2005. Used car sales and parts will be crucial revenue for dealers this year. Since car dealers are expecting new vehicle sales to be down, they are emphasizing selling used vehicles via their websites. Many consumers are doing their initial research online to find used cars and used car warranties.
Nexteppe believes that mobile marketing is a great opportunity that allows dealers to contact people who are interested in buying a vehicle. It is predicted that approximately 78 billion text messages will be exchanged every month in 2008. Customers seem to be receptive to communicating in this way and appreciate the up to date information.
Dealerships will use mobile marketing in several different ways to engage customers via cell phone. They will provide used and new vehicle inventory on a mobile website. Also, customers can arrange to receive text messages when there are updates on inventory. Finally, customers can be reminded of maintenance schedules.
February 20th, 2008 by Hal Moses
People need to realize that in today’s cars the main source of power is still the battery. The battery is not just used to start the engine; it is also used to supply electrical energy that maintains the memory of the numerous computers onboard. Batteries and cable connections that are poorly maintained fail to supply the voltage needed for innovative electronic devises. This can cause a vehicle to perform erratically. Maintaining your battery and purchasing an auto warranty can save you from breakdowns. Here are a few simple do’s and don’ts that can help you maintain your car battery.
First, it is important to check cables to make sure they are tight and free of corrosion. Make sure that terminals are lubricated with petroleum jelly to keep cables clean longer. Also, the battery should be secured firmly to the mounting bracket. If it’s not, it can result in short circuits. Finally, make sure to maintain fluids. If fluid is low, distilled water should be added. If there isn’t fluid the battery needs to be replaced.
There are some important things that you shouldn’t do concerning your battery. Don’t charge your battery if it’s frozen because there is a possibility it could explode. Instead, you must replace the battery. Never charge a battery that is dead with an alternator. The alternator may be damaged in this case. Also, you shouldn’t disconnect battery cables if your car is running.
Make sure to maintain your battery so it can perform at its peak. These simple tips can help your battery last longer. Of course, you never know when your car will fail, so make sure to purchase an auto warranty that will protect you in the event of a breakdown.
February 20th, 2008 by Hal Moses
The Internet has offered consumers’ endless opportunities to purchase used cars and used car warranties. Yet now, according to Automotive News, approximately 4,000 car dealers that cell GM’s used cars will be listing their inventory on the popular website eBay Motors. The dealers will be able to list for free. This could totally alter the business of used cars.
GM has many different vehicles that will be listed on the site. These include Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Pontiac and Oldsmobile cars. Although Cadillac, Saab, Hummer, and Saturn have different certification programs, they will also be listed on the site.
The eBay website has just over 10 million users who will be able to view the used inventory of GM dealers. This program will become even more of a draw to consumers and dealers if additional manufacturers decide to put their used inventory on the site as well.
GM and eBay Motors are still working diligently to complete the site. However, GM already has their inventory posted on over 300 websites, such as AutoTrader.com and Cars.com.
Consumers can now search for a used car without ever leaving their homes. Also convenient is that motorists can shop around online for used car warranties that protect their investment. The Internet offers drivers a full range of opportunities.
February 20th, 2008 by Hal Moses
A new report shows that new car customers aren’t doing enough to ensure the best deals on financing, insurance and new car warranties.
Only 64 percent of consumers would even attempt a negotiation on the price of a new vehicle. In addition, over 2 million motorists wouldn’t even bother to research the current value of their existing car when planning to do a trade-in. In fact, over 30 percent of drivers admitted they wouldn’t even spend an hour researching how they are going to pay for their new vehicle.
Alarmingly, 91 percent of customers weren’t able to explain what the phrase ‘lease purchase’ meant, which is a term often used in car financing deals. Also, 50 percent said they would go ahead and purchase a new car without getting any quote for the insurance.
Our nation is known for being bargain hunters and trying to get the best deal. But for some reason when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle motorists are falling short. It’s crucial for all drivers wanting to buy the newest vehicle to do their homework. Financing, insurance and an auto warranty are an essential part of the car buying experience. So, shop around and find the best deals. Otherwise, pay the price.
February 19th, 2008 by Hal Moses
Tribal has just launched a new site that provides customers with a true life-like car shopping experience without ever leaving their homes. Volkswagen.co.uk allows people to virtually sit in and walk around new cars. Tribal created this web site because customers often feel that buying a new car can be confusing.
Research shows that people who want to purchase a new vehicle do most of their research on the Internet. This means that trips to showrooms are cut in half. Volkswagen responded to this by giving buyers a virtual experience from the comfort of their own homes.
The site features a car configurator that is very sophisticated. It has 3D models of the new Volkswagen range. Visitors are able to change every option that alters the appearance of the vehicle. This lets people create the car of their choice.
In the future, people who visit the site will have the ability to book test drives by accessing the booking systems of retailers. In addition, they will be able to see the availability of models at specific retailers.
Volkswagen has responded to customers needs by allowing people to shop for a vehicle from the comfort of their own homes. Also convenient, is that customers can purchase new car warranties online from a wide range of providers. An auto warranty is a smart way to protect your new investment.
February 18th, 2008 by Hal Moses
Hybrids are wonderful cars. They get good gas mileage, they help our environment, and people who own them love them. And best of all they’re quiet. But are they too quiet?
Often you will hear salesmen tell their customers to be careful when walking out of the showroom. Hybrids are so silent that it is virtually impossible to hear them coming.
This can be dangerous for pedestrians. Many times people walking in a parking lot will have no idea a hybrid is driving close to them. This is also true of bicycles in traffic. This means that hybrid drivers must exercise extra caution. Sometimes it is necessary to honk at pedestrians, however, drivers must learn how to do this politely. Also affective, is rolling down the window with music playing, so people will know you’re coming.
The Honda Civic hybrid might be a good option. Although it is pretty silent, you can still hear it coming since it has a gasoline powered engine. The only problem with this car is that drivers will often grind the ignition by turning it twice. This is because they don’t realize that the car is on.
It is ironic that quiet cars are presenting challenges. Who would have ever thought that a lack of road noise would present a problem? Nevertheless, hybrids are great cars. Motorists should protect their quiet gems with an auto warranty in case of a breakdown. You never want to be faced with unnecessary repair costs.