January 5th, 2011 by Hal Moses
There are millions of traffic tickets issued out every year in the U.S., which often cost over $100. This is a billion dollar business in our country. Paying the ticket through the mail is essentially admitting that you’re guilty. Also, you will have the ticket on your record at the DMV for up to three years. So, is it possible to wiggle out of a speeding ticket? Here are a couple of things to try.
First of all, if you get pulled over for speeding, stay in your vehicle. You should never get out. When the policeman approaches your window, try to look remorseful. Make apologies to the officer and be polite. Be nice, and ask for a warning. Don’t try to answer questions, such as: “Do you know why I pulled you over?â€Â Tell the officer you aren’t sure.
Don’t pay the speeding ticket by mail because it means you are admitting you’re guilty. In the U.S. you are considered innocent until proven guilty, so show up at court. Often, the police officer will make mistakes leading to the dismissal of your ticket. For instance, the officer might not go to court. Many times you will get your ticket changed to a lesser charge by showing up at court. For example, they might change it to a parking ticket from a speeding ticket. This is beneficial because it won’t increase your insurance and will give you fewer points on your license.
Many motorists assume that if they are given a speeding ticket that they should just pay it through the mail. However, it is a much better idea to make an effort to get out of it so you don’t have to pay an increased insurance premium. After all, we factor in costs such as an auto warranty and maintenance costs, but don’t consider speeding tickets and raised insurance.
January 4th, 2011 by Hal Moses
In this struggling economy, automakers can’t count on slick styling and big engines alone to lure buyers. Consumers have changed their tastes: appearance and performance are still a priority, but value, gas mileage and practicality are becoming more important than every, according to experts. In addition, people are protecting themselves with an auto warranty and road service programs.
Fuel-efficiency stays on the top of people’s minds. A study was conducted recently by the Consumer Federation of America, finding that even though gas is at $3 per gallon, drivers are still looking for 20% better mileage in their next car.
However, don’t count out the importance of performance. Derrick Kuzak, who is the head of product development at Ford said, “I think people are looking for both [performance and efficiency]. He also said the carmaker’s EcoBoost initiative, which is basically downsizing engines for better fuel-efficiency but adding on turbochargers to make up for performance that is lost, is a way to satisfy both demands.
People assume that more power means poor gas mileage, but this isn’t the case. Now there are advanced drivetrains, better aerodynamics and lighter materials. There are popular vehicles in every car segment, from the Toyota Prius to the Escape that are more fuel-efficient and quicker with every redesign.
January 1st, 2011 by Hal Moses
The government has announced to carmakers that they must get a fleet average fuel-efficiency of 35 mpg by the year 2020, however Hyundai now claims that they will hit this goal by the year 2015, which is five years earlier.
How will the Korean company hit this goal? Hyundai doesn’t just plan to move forward on developing new hybrid cars, but also to take an approach to its gas engines that are holistic, by discovering ways to take off a mpg here and there.
Some of the new technologies that Hyundai plans to use in its new cars include transmissions that increase efficiency, turbocharging, eight speed automatic transmissions, direct injection, integrated Stop and Go technology, and dual continuously variable valve timing. And, consumers can rest-assured that they wouldn’t end up paying for repairs of these technologies if they have a good auto warranty. Other carmakers plan to make changes that are similar, but Hyundai has a lineup that is relatively small, with no large trucks and SUVs, so it makes it easier to make a quicker mileage jump.
Hyundai’s increased fuel-economy will make consumers happy, since gas prices have been such a concern to all. Currently, people have been pushing the limit and running out of gas often, which have put roadside assistance calls at an all time high.
January 1st, 2011 by Hal Moses
Often motorist get sticker shock or experience buyer’s remorse after buying a new car. However, you can avoid this by considering the expenses that you will encounter in the future.
According to experts, most consumers anticipate the price of the purchase, registration and taxes. However, many people forget to factor in the price of insurance and new car warranties. Fortunately, by doing your homework you can get good deals on insurance and an auto warranty.
To control car costs drivers should consider these tips. First of all, decide before you get to the dealership the amount of money that you can spend. Also, decide on what type of car will suit your needs. It is also beneficial to get quotes from several dealers, because then you are in the position to negotiate. Finally, check insurance and auto warranty prices on the vehicle that you want to purchase.
You don’t have to go broke purchasing a new car. But, be smart and consider all of the costs involved. It isn’t just the purchase price that you will be paying.
December 31st, 2010 by Hal Moses
Unfortunately, mistakes are a common occurrence when you’re in a place that is unfamiliar. According to a recent survey, people who drive RV’s admit to making expensive slip-ups. Approximately 1,000 RV motorists participated in the survey, and revealed some mishaps that are interesting to say the least.
The following were the most common mistakes:Â running out of gas, connecting taillights incorrectly, backing up and hitting something, not being able to accurately judge clearance, and pulling out of a parking spot with the steps still out.
According to the survey, approximately 50% of RV motorists travel for at least a month out of the year, and around 40% log 500 miles in their trip.
Although you can usually find blunders humorous, they can cost you big bucks in repairs and damages. This is why it is necessary to have good insurance and an auto warranty for your RV. After all, you need to be able to get back on the road as quickly as possible after a mishap.
December 30th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It is very important to maintain a correct tire pressure for the safety of your vehicle, especially when cold weather can cause the air pressure in tires to decrease.
It is estimated that 650 people are killed and 32,000 are injured as a result of car crashes related to problems with tires. However, a recent survey revealed that 84 percent of motorists don’t check the pressure of their tires.
Another issue is that poorly maintained tires can be dangerous, and even leave you on the side of the road. Although you can always call for emergency roadside assistance, there are a few safety tips that drivers should keep in mind to avoid this:
Make sure you don’t overload your tires because overheating can occur. The result of this could be a blowout or a car accident. Your owner’s manual will give you proper loading instructions.
Tires that are under inflated also pose a risk. This occurs naturally and cold weather accelerates the process. In fact, frigid temperatures can cause tires to lose up to two pounds of air in one month. Under inflated tires are actually resistant to rolling. It can feel like you are driving with the parking brake on.
Finally, don’t over inflate tires because it can cause the tread to wear in the center.
Checking your tire pressure regularly can save you from many problems with your vehicle. Of course, you never know when you might get a flat, so just in case, make sure you have a road service program that can assist you in case of an emergency. In addition, make sure you have a good auto warranty to protect yourself from other car repair expenses.
December 28th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Apparently, car thieves aren’t all that concerned about steeling vehicles that are fuel-efficient.
In fact, SUVs and large pickup trucks are the majority on the top-10 most stolen vehicles list, according to the Highway Loss Data Institute, which is affiliated with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Number one on the list is the Cadillac Escalade ESV, probably because it is a highly desirable and high profile vehicle. Big time athletes and celebrities drive the Escalade, making it a status symbol. Also, people who drive this vehicle often include options and add-ons that are expensive, such as fancy rims and top-notch stereo equipment. There are 11.3 stolen vehicle claims for the Escalade for every 1,000 vehicles. The average claim is approximately $14,657 loss payment, whereas it is typically $9,396 average for all cars.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, a vehicle is stolen approximately every 24 seconds in America. Just make sure you protect yourself with an auto warranty and a good roadside assistance program.
December 25th, 2010 by Hal Moses
It’s pretty obvious that carmakers are having a difficult year. And just to make things even harder, some cars that are perfectly good don’t even get a fair shake. One car model can be just as good as another one, yet consumers don’t give it the attention of a competing model.
For instance, the Saab 9-5 gets 21 mpg and comes with a sunroof and leather seats, and goes for $37,685 with new car warranties. However, 1,943 consumers only bought that car, while 81,967 people purchased the similar BMW 3-Series for $32,700, which is the segment leader.
Another story of tough luck is the Acura RL, which is a competitor in the large luxury car division and is one of the Top Safety Picks, along with the S80. However, the RL, which is powered by a V-6, isn’t a match for competing car models that have V-8 engines. Because of higher fuel prices, the RL appeals to some shoppers who are fuel-conscious, but it seems that buyers looking for luxury cars have a preference for power over safety.
These cars are great examples of vehicles that deserve a second look because they have features that are unique and high quality. Unfortunately, they are small players in a huge market. Consumers should consider the benefits of these cars because not only do they have a lot of features to offer, but also they are priced right with a good auto warranty.
December 24th, 2010 by Hal Moses
Consumers can experience sensory overload when walking down the car care isle at their local store. It can be confusing to know what products to purchase, or even if you need to purchase them. Some people assume that if you have a factory auto warranty that includes the finish, you don’t need to bother washing and waxing, but this isn’t true.
A factory auto warranty will protect you by ensuring that the paint job was sound, that they used quality paint, and that it was cured correctly. However, new car warranties won’t protect you from oxidation that occurs over time. This happens naturally if you don’t care for your finish. Car wax serves the purpose of being a sacrificial layer between Mother Nature and your paint.
If new car owners want to keep their finishes looking great, they don’t have to spend a lot of time or money. Preventative maintenance is the key for your finish, just like it’s under the hood. All you have to do is wash your vehicle frequently with car care products. Even just a basic car wash will do a lot to help protect your investment. After washing, you can spray-on a wax that will boost the shine and extend the intervals between regular wax jobs.
December 23rd, 2010 by Hal Moses
More and more cars are being loaded with high-tech advances. In fact, some luxury car models have up to 80 switches and knobs to allow for advanced safety and comfort of motorists. Yet, there are more high-tech gadgets coming onto the market.
Soon there will be sign recognition systems that will be able to read wrong-way signs and speed limits.
Cameras could replace sideview mirrors in the future. Images would be displayed on the rearview mirrors on the edges, or on the instrument panel.
We may see chatty cars in the future. Developers are trying to create a network that would monitor signals from car systems and warn other cars. For example, skidding due to slick roads could be transmitted to warn other drivers.
Bumper bags could help SUVs be less deadly when hitting a low-riding car. This has been shown to reduce intrusions and cause less injuries.
High-tech gadgets are great for motorists, but only if they learn how to use them before getting on the road. In addition, with any new technology, drivers should have an auto warranty to protect themselves from technology failure.