March 11th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It is helpful to use a car loan calculator to determine what the cost for a new or used car purchase will be monthly.
These can be found online with options for buying or leasing. This is a helpful tool in determining what your budget actually is and how much car you can afford. Just remember to factor in other car costs, such as maintenance and new car warranties.
Just remember that the numbers on a vehicle loan calculator are not actual quotes. The calculator allows you to compare the costs of different cars and see what your payments per month will be.
On the calculator there is a line to enter the dollar amount you would like to finance. Then, by clicking your mouse you can compare what payments will be, with different arrangements for paying. You can also find out what interest payments will be for the life of the vehicle loan.
It is a bonus to use a car loan calculator before going to a dealership to buy a vehicle. You will already know what your budget is, which will allow you to make a smart purchase. You will also know how much money you have left over to spend on maintenance costs and an auto warranty.
March 11th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It can be overwhelming to purchase a new vehicle, but keeping a vehicle can be worse. Television ads are enticing and make it difficult for car shoppers to resist a new vehicle. However, with the economy being difficult, it pays to not give into temptation.
In the U.S. motorists find it hard to drive the same vehicle for more than five years. However, an auto warranty on your current vehicle, and some common sense tips can help you avoid an unnecessary purchase.
If your current vehicle is Japanese you are in business. For example, the Honda Civic will run forever. You may get a little rust on it, but it will never die. And although cruising in a ’92 Toyota Tercel might not get you a hot date, it offers you great reliability.
Next, it is important to do your research. This can actually prevent you from purchasing a vehicle. It is easy to become overwhelmed with all of the options available in your price range. And if you don’t have an auto warranty on your current car, research used car warranties.
Lastly, focusing on a specific make and model is good, especially if it hasn’t been made for over a decade. There are slim odds that you will find the vehicle on the market with under 300,000 miles.
So, what happens if you still want that new vehicle after researching for weeks? What if your old Tercel is steering toward the dealership? Just keep in mind that a new car’s value will drop as soon as it pulls out of the dealership. Holding onto your clunker will save you a lot of money in the end.
March 10th, 2010 by Hal Moses
If you’re purchasing a used car you need to find out as much history as possible about it. The car may have problems that are not apparent from a visual inspection or a test drive.
A car history report is a good way to find out what you’re getting. This is a report prepared by a third party that is a compilation of information from DMVs, RMVs, and other sources. A car history report will give you an overview of what the car has been through.
When getting a car history report look out for the following things. This is not to say that you shouldn’t buy the car based on these issues, but certainly ask questions.
If a car has had a lot of owners, chances are it hasn’t been cared for lovingly. These cars have probably endured more abuse.
Some areas of our country are easier on vehicles than others. For example, extreme winter conditions are tough on vehicles, as are flood areas and extreme heat.
Make sure the name and description of the car match up with the actual car. Read the description carefully to rule out vehicle fraud.
Car history reports, such as those from CARFAX are comprehensive and can save you from purchasing a lemon. Just performing this simple step may save you from having to call for auto road service. Also, you can protect yourself with used car warranties to avoid unnecessary repair costs down the road.
March 10th, 2010 by Hal Moses
When thinking of the engine, most people don’t consider how important the alternator is. In fact, the alternator is indispensable because the engine won’t run without it. The alternator is the source where the power train derives power.
Alternators were created in order to convert mechanical energy into a current that is alternating. In order to do this the engine belt drives the alternator shaft. Doing this allows electricity to be produced from the mechanical energy of the machines. Then, the power becomes channeled. The electricity produced recharges the battery and powers the electrical system of the vehicle.
If you need to replace your alternator you will discover that some contain more amps and some are definitely more costly. However, an auto warranty will give you peace of mind with any vehicle repairs.
Whatever car you have, make sure you can see the bolts. Many times, other parts have to be removed to have access to the bolts. Before you remove your alternator, take note of the way it’s connected. Then, mark its location so you know where to connect it. Afterward, start to unplug the wires that connect to the alternator. Finally, take off the bolts and remove the alternator.
Without the alternator, the engine can’t function. If you can’t replace it yourself, find a professional to take care of it. Whatever you decide, make sure you have an auto warranty to save you from costly repairs. After all, you never know when you will need to replace a part on your vehicle.
March 10th, 2010 by Hal Moses
When determining the amount of money you can pay for a vehicle you must consider your credit. Yet, experts say that consumers should shop around at various dealers to make comparisons on special deals on financing.
To help with your car shopping experience, request a copy of your credit report by going through a credit agency. This will give you knowledge when it comes time to talk to a dealer about your financing.
You can look at some web-based tools for help. For instance, go to AutoTrader.com to find a credit center designed for people trying to purchase a car with poor credit. This is one of the few websites that doesn’t require personal, confidential information. In fact, you are only asked general questions that allow you to have privacy.
After filling out the questionnaire you will receive a credit level of excellent, good, or fair. Then, you can search the car dealerships in your area that will be able to help you with your needs in regards to financing.
Look to websites to prepare you with information that will help you when you go to the dealership. You can learn about the prices of cars, credit scores, and an auto warranty. This will allow you to get the best deal possible.
March 9th, 2010 by Hal Moses
One trick that people use to sell a used car is to detail it until it looks brand new. However, beware, a motor that is steam-cleaned won’t fix a gasket that is blown. This is why it is important to purchase an auto warranty.
Having said that, dealers that are reputable typically won’t try to sell vehicles with big issues, for fear that they’ll have to fix them down the road. If you test drive a vehicle that doesn’t make awful noises and feels pretty good, chances are it is fine. Dealers don’t like to sell junky cars.
In any case, it is still a smart idea to have a trained professional take a look at your vehicle. If the dealer claims the vehicle was inspected by it’s mechanic, request to view the paperwork. If the dealer can’t produce them, make sure an outside technician sees the vehicle.
Also important, is to check that the car has a clear title and that it hasn’t ever been in a big accident. You can tell the dealer to go on Carfax or AutoCheck to confirm this. Both of these sites have a fee to trace the car identification number for odometer and service registrations, and accidents. However, often dealerships will check the vehicles on their lot free of charge.
Typically, it is safe to buy a used car from a dealership; however, it never hurts to take these quick steps to ensure you don’t get a lemon. In addition, used car warranties will give you peace of mind in case you need repairs.
March 9th, 2010 by Hal Moses
What benefits come with purchasing a sedan? Sedans will give you a balance of performance, handling, fuel-efficiency, safety and easy access. Also, they handle well in the majority of driving situations. Unless you are someone who needs to store a lot of cargo, they are a great option.
There are many different choices when looking at sedans. You could purchase a large, small, family, or luxury sedan. All of these categories are made up of many models that have different characteristics. They have various balances of sporty, comfort, and practicality.
Fuel-efficiency varies greatly in different sedans. Do your homework in this category to make a comparison of different models.
Sedans are equipped with various safety features. All models that are new have dual front air bags for added safety. Also standard is three-point seat belts and LATCH systems. However, certain models also have side air bags and head protection bags.
Do your research to get the sedan that will fit you best. Also, make sure to buy new car warranties for peace of mind. Following these simple tips will give you the knowledge to make a good decision when it comes time to purchase a sedan.
March 9th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Teenage drivers add a significant amount of cost to a family’s auto insurance. This is because insurance is based on the likelihood of a driver getting into a car crash. According to statistics, young drivers who are inexperienced account for a large amount of auto accidents. This is why they require a road service program and a good auto warranty. So, what can parents do to eliminate some of the cost? Here are some tips.
First of all, make an effort to qualify for as many discounts as you can. You might be able to classify your teenager as a driver who is “occasionalâ€, instead of a primary one.
Next, ensure that your teen has taken a driver’s education class. This can qualify them for an insurance discount. Also, having them take a defensive driving class might reduce premiums.
Avoid buying a high performance, sporty car that your teen might get into trouble with. Insurers frown upon these vehicles.
Finally, if your adolescent goes away for college without taking the car, it is likely that you can drop them from your insurance policy.
These simple tips will save you money on insurance and save your teen from calling for emergency roadside assistance. In addition, invest in used car warranties to avoid unnecessary repair costs. It is a win, win situation for everyone.
March 6th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It is a huge disappointment to buy a vehicle just to find out that it literally has an ocean of problems.
Unfortunately, there are a large number of vehicles on the market within the last five years that have experienced flooding, rain or hurricanes. In fact, the number of cars has doubled. In certain states it has been reported that there has been an increase of six times more cars damaged by water than five years ago.
Many times, cars with water damage are moved from flooding regions to areas that are less suspicious. The cars are then back on the used car market, often disguised and rebuilt.
It can be difficult for consumers to be able to recognize if a vehicle has experienced water damage, and yet the car will literally rot inside and out. In addition, the mechanical systems of a vehicle can be threatened or ruined without any visible signs on the exterior of the car.
Sales this year are predicted to reach around 45 million this year, so motorists should be on alert for water damage. In addition, purchasing an auto warranty is a smart idea to protect your wallet in case of unforeseen repairs down the road.
March 6th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Teens are known for making driving mistakes, which unfortunately can result in car accidents. This leaves parents feeling anxious, not knowing if their teen driver is safe. There are numerous devices out there that allow parents to track their teenage drivers. However, now parents can track their teen right from their own keychain.
Many technologies out there monitor the speed and location of your teenage driver, and some even videotape who’s riding in the car. However, now there is a Canadian company that is offering a new device called the Lemur Autovision keychain. For the low price of $99.95, parents are able to track the maximum speed that their teen is driving, as well as excessive braking and distance traveled. Essentially all that it requires is the installation of a non-GPS based sensor box and the monitor keychain. This system doesn’t invade a teen’s privacy, but allow parents to discipline children for speeding. And the best part is that it is tamper proof and protected by a PIN, which lets parents know if there have been attempts to fool the system.
Parents need to take extra precautions to keep their teen drivers safe, which includes purchasing a roadside assistance program, a good auto warranty, and monitoring teen driving, and setting strict guidelines. You can never be too careful when it comes to your children.