December 12th, 2009 by Hal Moses
When it comes time for you to test-drive a car, you need to be aware of a few things. After all, this will be one of your most important drives ever, so make sure to get the most out of it.
First, make sure you test-drive the exact model that you’re thinking of buying. There may be big differences in various models, such as transmissions and engines, tires and suspension, and features in the cabin that will largely affect the way a vehicle handles and feels.
If the salesperson is talking a lot, ask him to please be quiet. You need quiet to properly evaluate a vehicle. This will allow you to hear how the vehicle operates. It might make things easier to tell the salesperson in the showroom that you might need some quiet driving time.
Request a specific test route of your liking if you are familiar with the roads. You are the only one who knows what kind of driving you will be doing and on what roads.
It is easy to get excited when test-driving a car, but don’t forget these important tips. They could save your from purchasing a car that might not end up liking. Also, do your homework to get a good deal. You’ll need to factor in the price of maintenance costs, an auto warranty, and auto insurance.
December 11th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Why buy a sports car? Sports cars are not made to be practical, they are made to be fun. They are available in various models, such as two-seat roadsters and hatchbacks. Many models have relatively small cargo space, while others offer ample rear cargo room. Here are some things to consider when deciding which car model to purchase.
Even car models that fall in the same categories can vary greatly in fuel-efficiency. Make sure to do comparisons to see which models will save you money at the gas pump.
A lot of sports cars have small doors and limited head room that make getting in and out difficult. If you’re looking for a little more ease, you might want to look for a four-door hatchback or sedan. They often have easier access.
A sports car can have from two to five seats; depending on what model you look at. Even cars with five seats often have a middle rear seat that is too tight for adults. Make sure to try out the seats for comfort. Also, consider a three-point seat belt instead of a lap belt for a seat in the center rear.
A sports car is a great choice for motorists who want an exciting ride, and aren’t concerned about cargo space. However, it is always important to purchase an auto warranty to protect your wallet in case of unforeseen repairs down the road.
December 11th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Buying a car can be overwhelming, yet, keeping a car can even be worse. Enticing television ads and the lure on the web can make it hard to resist buying a new car. However, during this difficult economy, it makes sense not to give in to temptation.
In America, people find it hard to stay with a car for over five years. But with a few common-sense tips and an auto warranty, an unnecessary car purchase can be avoided.
First, make sure that the current car you drive is small and Japanese. For instance, the Honda Civic is a sure thing. It may get a little rust, but it won’t die. And even though driving a Tercel from ’92 may not get you a date on Friday night, it’s reliability will make you not want to give it up.
Second, do lots of research. This is actually a great method to prevent buying a car. Searching the Internet for the cars in your price range will overwhelm you with too many options. Also research used car warranties to protect the car you have.
Finally, focusing on a specific model and make is a good tactic. This is especially good if that model hasn’t been produced for at least a decade. The odds are very slim that you will find that car on the market with less than 300,000 miles.
So, what do you do if you still desire a new car after weeks of research? What if your old Civic is pulling you toward the dealer? Just remember as soon as that new car gets off the lot it’s value will drop instantly. Keeping your clunker is your best bet.
December 11th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Most people realize that hypermiling is not the safest practice; in fact it leads to car accidents. However, many people still do it. Well now, AAA is weighing in with their view on the subject.
AAA has released a very strong warning saying that practices to save gas, in which illegal driving techniques are used, are dangerous, and therefore shouldn’t be used. They are referring to practices like drafting off of other cars by tailgating, rolling stops, and turning off the car while driving.
Other gas saving practices toe the line of acceptability. For example, motorists who have manual transmissions sometimes cruise in neutral to conserve fuel. This practice is fairly common, yet safety advocates express concerns about motorists not having complete control of their cars. Also controversial is the practice of utilizing neutral with automatic transmissions, however some drivers who do this say that they can do it safely. AAA also doesn’t bring up the fact that there are numerous local laws having to do with improper driving, like not keeping your vehicle in gear.
Although motorists are tempted to do anything possible to save money on gas, including skimping on an auto warranty, people need to realize the danger involved in illegal driving techniques. Unfortunately, hypermiling has been known to lead to car accidents, which is why it is important to have roadside assistance. In addition, drivers should have good used car warranties to avoid unnecessary repair costs, should they arise.
December 10th, 2009 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.
December 9th, 2009 by Hal Moses
So, you’ve done your research. You’ve been to numerous car dealers with quotes from the Internet, so you know what is out there. You know all about rebates, and have learned how to negotiate. However, you still can’t find the right car for the right price. Never fear, there is a car out there for you. Consider these options.
It is a good idea to get a vehicle model late in the year, when a new model is about to come out. For example, a very satisfied consumer bought a Honda Civic coupe in 2000, late in the year, right before the seventh-generation Civic was released. He saved thousands. Cars that you could purchase this year in this category are the GMC Sierra and VW Beetle.
Another good tactic for saving on a used car is to look at rental car sales. Most companies such as Hertz and Alamo sell their cars. Although they often have high mileage, they endure a rigorous maintenance plan. You can save up to one-third of the price of the car new.
Finally, you can get a great deal on dealership demo models. These vehicles usually have low-mileage. Often times they are used for test drives.
Any educated consumer can get a good deal on a used car. By doing research, and trying various options, you can rest assured that you are getting the most for your dollar. Just make sure to maintain your vehicle and purchase an auto warranty in case of unforeseen repairs.
December 9th, 2009 by Hal Moses
The number one safety device is undoubtedly the seat belt. And even though seat belts save approximately 11,000 people in America from crashes every year, researchers are still working to find improvements for the belts. If experts in safety have their way, drivers will go from wearing three-point belts to four point belts. In addition, occupants in the back seats would wear inflatable seat belts.
In 2001, Ford Motor Company showed two new safety belt systems being studied. Each utilizes a four-point belt system.
One uses two belts that go over the shoulders and connects to a lap belt in the center. The other one uses two shoulder belts traditional style that criss cross on the chest.
These systems would restrain a person’s body more firmly than the three-point system that is currently used in cars today. Also, these are actually integrated into the seat, not the structure of the car.
For back seat occupants an inflatable safety belt may soon be an option. This system uses a shoulder belt that contains an airbag that will inflate in the event of a car collision.
Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about protecting themselves and their cars. This includes purchasing cars with technologically advanced safety features and buying an auto warranty to protect their cars.
December 5th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Buying a new vehicle is an exciting event in most people’s lives. People often want to flaunt their priceless possessions for everyone to see. Drivers purchase an auto warranty to protect their jewels, and treat their cars with loving care. In addition, they try not to let their vehicle get any scratches. A car that is scratch free and has a shiny finish is a good reflection of its owner and brings a lot of driving pleasure.
However, with heavy traffic that is bumper to bumper, it is difficult to keep your beautiful gem scratch free. In fact, it is inevitable that your vehicle will receive a scratch or two no matter what measures you take.
Never fear, you don’t have to spend thousands at a shop getting your entire car panel painted. You can use Com-Paint, which is a touch up spray that allows you to say goodbye to scratches. Follow these simple tips.
On small scratches you can use Aeroshot Top Cut to remove and cleanse the surface that is scratched. This will most likely take care of the scratches so that they won’t need painting.
For medium scratches level with 1000 No. Emery paper. Shake the can well and hold it 12†from the surface and use a stroking motion to spray. Make sure the coats are light, not heavy. Let the painted area dry at least 72 hours.
Car owners like to feel like their vehicles are brand new. Simple things can allow you to do this such as touch-up painting, routine maintenance, and purchasing new car warranties to protect your vehicle. These simple things can keep your car seeming brand-new.
December 5th, 2009 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.
December 5th, 2009 by Hal Moses
Would you ever think that a convertible could receive the same safety ratings as its counterpart sedan? Well it has happened with Saab vehicles.
The Saab 9-3 two door convertible, years 2006 and 2007, that has a fabric retractable roof received the same ratings for side, rear and frontal crash tests as its counterpart with a steel roof. In fact, it was also named a “Top Safety Pickâ€.
The crash tests that were performed were the first ever done on convertibles. They were conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hasn’t even done tests on the convertibles that the IIHS did, so these scores are the very first indications of the safety of convertibles.
The 2007 version of the Saab 9-3 sedan has a suggested retail of $26,250, and the Saab 9-3 convertible goes for $37,495. General Motors Corporation is the owner of Saab based out of Sweden. Saab has had a longstanding reputation for safe vehicles.
No matter how high a car is rated it is important to purchase an auto warranty in case of unforeseen problems. Used car warranties will save you money down the road when your car needs repair. After all, no vehicle is without faults.