Test Driving A Used Car |
by: John Sanderson |
Nothing is quite as exciting as purchasing a new car. Even if it's a "used" new car. Don't get too caught up in the pretty shiny metal and chrome, it's what's under the hood that counts. Take a serious test drive before you make a decision. Used cars bought from a private owner don't have any warranty with them. You don't want to buy someone elses problem. Do you homework. There is a lot of help available on line when you're purchasing a used car. You'll have the vin or vehicle identification number. With this number you can pull up a vehicle history through your state. Do a search for the model and year of your car online. Were there any specific complaints or call backs on this particular model? The first place you should test drive this car is to your trusty mechanics shop. With a bit of notice he'll be glad to set a bit of time aside to go over the car with you. He'll take a look at your car with a keen and unprejudiced eye. Take with you whatever service records are available on the car, these will help your mechanic understand the vehicles past. Your mechanic will check the hoses and belts and condition of the oil. These are easy fixes if they need changing or replacing. Your mechanic will check the radiator fluid for coolant level and to make sure the fluid is going to protect in severe cold conditions. He'll see how much oil, if any is present on the engine. Perhaps the car has been burning oil. He'll check the transmission fluid. Another thing he'll check is the lights, inside on the dash, and outside to make sure they work. He'll check shocks, breaks and tires and alignment. He'll take a look at the body. Is there any rust underneath on the frame? Does all the paint match, or has the car been repainted? Is everything in alignment? Do the doors open and shut properly? Let your mechanic take the car out for a test drive. He may be able to pick up subtle things, perhaps a shutter or hesitation, or hear a sound that you may not. His is the best advice you're going to get in this situation. About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.corvette-owners-guide.com Circulated by Article Emporium |
Thursday, November 16, 2006
How To Purchase A Used Car |
by: Tim Henry |
Buying a used car is a bit trickier than buying a new car although you can follow most of the same guidelines for both. First, know what car you have in mind. Research the car. There is a wealth of information online. Check the car manufacturers web site, consumer reports and the edmunds.com. web site. Know the approximate value of the car before you head out to the dealer. Go to your bank or to your credit union before you go shopping and see how much money they'll be able to lend you on a used car. This way you'll have a much better idea what you can realistically spend. Realize that there are many different models of the same car. You may not find exactly the car with all the extras you want, or the exact color, but you may find something close that is a great deal. Most dealers are upright and honest when selling used cars. They offer limited warranties with them. In the case of luxury end cars a lot of them still have warranties in effect when you purchase them. If you are buying from a private seller ask to see service records. Go online and order a carfax car history report. Find out if the car will be sold "as is" or already state inspected. When you are serious about a used car make sure that you have time to take the car to your mechanic for him to give the car the once over, especially if it's being sold "as is". You don't need to find out after the fact that it needs many more repairs than you thought. You can't tell just by a visual inspection. The cosmetics of the car are an important factor in determining it's value. Cars are generally rated as being in good, fair or excellent condition. However, especially when purchasing from a private seller you'll find that these ratings vary, sometimes greatly. Whatever you do, don't let anyone pressure you into making a quick decision, especially a private seller. If you hear something like "I already have someone else who's willing to give me a down payment" let the car go. Stick to your guns, and your budget. If you don't get this car it wasn't meant to be and there will always be another, and better one. About the author: This article courtesy of http://www.porsche-owners-guide.com Circulated by Article Emporium |
Buying new vs. used cars. |
by: Mantius Cazaubon |
New vs used. Which car is right for you? Consider the following. Owning a brand new car is exciting. But financially speaking, it makes more sense to buy a used car. As soon as you drive a new car off the lot, it loses a great portion of its value. This is because your car is no longer “new”. New cars lose about 40% of their value within 3 years, then depreciation starts to slow down. Why not buy a used car and allow someone else to take that depreciation hit? The previous owner will have absorbed the steepest part of the depreciation cycle. At that point the costs of owning and operating the car will be reduced. The money you save on depreciation will surely go a long way. Another benefit of buying used is lower cost. By buying used you pay less. You will also save on financing costs, insurance premiums, registration and licensing fees. You don’t have to worry about paying sales tax. As with everything else there are a few downsides to buying a used car. There are greater chances for costly unwarranted repairs. You may very soon have to do major maintenance on your car, including replacing tires, battery, brakes, muffler, and perhaps even the transmission. A used car is usually less reliable. You don’t know exactly what you’re getting into and how the previous owner treated the car. However, every situation is different and some used models may actually be far more reliable than some new ones. If you can pay cash, go the new car way. Enjoy the feeling of knowing you're the original owner of a new car in mint condition. Nothing can replace that feeling. Otherwise do not hang your hat higher than you can reach. Practice financial prudence. Save your money and comfort yourself knowing that one day you will be able to afford that dream car. One day when money is no object. About the author: Mantius Cazaubon offers a guide geared towards helping you find the best deals on reliable parts and accessories for your automobile at http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comVisit http://www.toyota-parts-guide.comfor auto parts savings. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Money Saving Car Tips |
by: Norman Fleming |
Today with soaring gas prices it's more important than ever to pay attention to the little things that can help your car to run more efficiently, hence saving you money. You can turn this into a win-win situation for you and for your car. The first tip to saving money on your car is keeping it's engine properly tuned up. A car engine that isn't running efficiently can use up to 30ore fuel than a car engine that is properly tuned. Follow your car manufacturers guidelines for servicing your car. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Tires that are under inflated will cause you to burn more gasoline. Make sure that your tires are kept in alignment. This will help you car to handle better also. Avoid running the engine unnecessarily. The cars of today don't need to be warmed up in the morning like the cars our parents used to drive. Get in, turn it on, and go. If you are going to be waiting for someone, or sitting in your car turn it off. Drive 55 mph and not 70 mph. Driving the posted speed limit can help you save up to 15ore fuel. That's a nice saving! Also, use your cruise control when you can. This keeps your speed steady. Avoid sudden and extreme accelerations. These use fuel needlessly. The next time you go on your errands see if you can run them more efficiently. Pick up your dry cleaning and your prescription at the same time. Don't double back from store to store, it's a real waste of gasoline, and time. If you don't have to be out in peak traffic times, don't. Wait until the traffic thins before running errands, this way you won't be waiting in long lines to get through the lights. Set up a car pool to help usher the kids to and from school and sporting events. Perhaps you can take Billy home this week and Billy's mom can drop your son off next week. How about a car pool for work? We're living in a time where people live farther from work than ever before. With the price of gas a work car pool makes more sense than ever. About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.corvette-monster.com Circulated by Article Emporium |
High Quality A/C System Parts: Keeping Your Toyota Cool and Comfy |
by: Mark Clarkson |
Cars are undoubtedly one of our daily necessities. We use them not only for our everyday transportation but as well as in hauling loads, carrying cargoes and many others. Through the years, they have been greatly improved, Including Toyota cars. Not only in terms of performance, safety and style but as well as in terms of comfort features, just to catch up with our growing demands. Power operated auto parts became commonplace. Almost everything functions with just a push on a button. |
Aftermarket Auto Lights to Match Ultimate Driving Machine’s High Standards |
by: Joe Thompson |
Aftermarket auto parts abound in the market nowadays, making it easier for anyone to upgrade, repair, customize or refurbish his vehicle. Various kinds of replacement car, truck and other auto parts and accessories can be easily bought and they are offered in very affordable deals not only for auto mechanics and retail store owners but most especially to individual do-it-yourself users who want to save in their repair needs. Even stock automotive parts of major European makes that used to be so hard to replace are now conveniently offered in thousands of auto parts stores online. About the author: Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in Ferndale, California. This 48 year old is also a prolific writer, contributing automotive related articles to various publications. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Toyota Parts Online Gears Up Your Toyota 4Runner for the Challenge |
by: Mark Clarkson |
The Toyota 4Runner embodies your ideals of a sporty vehicle packed with power, rugged character and wide ranging utility. Since its debut in 1985, this vehicle has been Toyota’s strong contender in the Sport Utility Vehicle segment. It was loved for its reliability, sporty styling, functionality and utility. About the author: Mark Clarkson is a 35 year old marketing consultant for a leading auto parts store. This native of Denver is also an offroad enthusiast. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Replacement Parts To Improve Your Honda's Performance Available at the Leading Online Parts Dealer |
by: Jenny McLane |
A car is like a human being; there are several systems that work together in order for it to move. One of the systems in an automobile that resembles that of a human being is the exhaust system. This system allows the car to exhale the air it had inhaled and consumed. Cars, however, breathes in and exhales air mechanically; thus, once a part in the system is damaged, it can be easily replaced with an upgraded unit and so the system can continue to function. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. Circulated by Article Emporium |
A Guide to U-Haul Trailer Hitches - |
by: Elizabeth Morgan |
U-Haul is best known for its rental trucks used to help people move, but they also sell trailer hitches and trailer hitch accessories. U-Haul makes trailer hitches that accommodate all kinds of vehicles, including many cars. Different models of U-Haul trailer hitches can haul up to 24,000 pounds. U-Haul makes and sells all needed trailer hitch parts, including hitch balls, ball mounts, receivers, and brake controllers. U-Haul makes some small trailer hitches that can be secured onto cars. These hitches usually can’t be used to haul as much cargo as heavy-duty trailer hitches found on trucks, but they are still useful. Most car U-Haul trailer hitches can handle loads up to 2000 pounds. These hitches can be bolted onto the car’ frame, usually using preexisting holes. This is a better option than welding the hitch to the frame, which can cause electrical problems and can make the frame much weaker. U-Haul trailer hitches are not just made for cars. U-Haul manufactures a wide range of trailer hitches to accommodate almost any kind of vehicle. Their heavy-duty hitches can bear loads of up to 24,000 pounds. U-Haul trailer hitches are among the strongest on the market and can come with a lifetime unlimited warranty for an extra five dollars. U-Haul is a one-stop shop for all towing needs. U-Haul sells all necessary brake controls and electrical wiring needed to make the trailer hitch completely functional. The law requires that trailer hitches be equipped with working brake lights and brakes, so it is vital that consumers make sure they purchase this equipment. U-Haul is one of the top trailer hitch dealers in the country. U-Haul sells quality trailer hitches and accessories at low prices. Their lifetime warranty is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. About the author: Trailer Hitches Info provides detailed information on motorcycle, U Haul, and gooseneck trailer hitches, as well as trailer hitch accessories like trailer hitch covers and bike racks, and advice on trailer hitch installation. Trailer Hitches Info is the sister site of Tire Chains Web. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Hottest wheels in Town Now at Auto Parts Online |
by: Jenny McLane |
Auto Parts Online, the country's leading Auto Parts Online store offers new exciting line of replacement auto wheels. Now offered are more variety of wheels, including stylish alloy Mercedes Benz wheels, tough and heavy duty wheels to match original Ford wheels for newer Ford models, and rugged and tough-looking Jeep wheels. About the author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Restyling Dodge Omni Using Quality Replacement Parts from Auto Parts Deal |
by: Sarah McBride |
Auto Parts Deal features this time one of the Dodge’s prominent cars, the Dodge Omni. Let’s take a closer look at this vehicle and this number one Auto Parts Deal store’s superior quality Dodge parts for Dodge Omni. About the author: As a manager of one of the largest auto stores in Springfield,Massachussets, Sarah has extensive expertise on auto parts and automotives in general. This 42 year old is a certified car enthusiast. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Auto Parts Fast Features High Quality Parts to Improve Your Honda's Fuel Mileage |
by: Stacey Wilson |
We can't deny it; we all need cars for us to live life normally everyday. Even if we have to go back to the basics to cut high costs of living, we cant really do without cars. They have become necessities in life through the years. However, some vehicles are harder to maintain and consumes more fuel; thus for some, they are pain in the neck—and the pocket—rather than helpful driving machines. But don't worry, there are many ways to improve gas mileage; though you may have to replace some of your stock auto parts. About the author: As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Discover Ways To Get The Fuel Figures Right before it’s too late |
by: Sunny Tan |
Do you know Why your car meter reading is Might Not show the correct fuel mileage? You may be trying hard to increase gas mileage of your car but when you don’t know how to get the best possible mileage reading of your car, then everything else is useless. With these tips, you’ll be sure to get the best possible gas mileage reading to tell when something is amiss with your car. This article will give you some tips you can use to better keep track of your car fuel mileage consumption. On one fine evening, a subscriber of mine wrote me the following, "Dear Sunny, I bought my first car, a Nissan Sunny 130Y, three months ago, It runs extremely well and I've had no major problems since. But I'm curious as to its actual fuel consumption. Can that be measured without sophisticated electronic devices so I could learn to start increase gas mileage of my car in more efficient way? What are the methods a layman like me can use to measure fuel consumption? Janice" To be frank, fuel consumption varies widely. It all depends on the way you drive your vehicle, your car make, and the type of traffic condition it encounters. These circumstances affect the actual fuel efficiency of your car. For instance, if you drive mainly in urban areas where you'll see lots of traffic jam, you are likely to lose up much more gas money compared to when you are cruising along the highway. Enough said, your fuel economy will suffer when you are stuck in the jam. Jack rabbit starts and heavy braking of your vehicle may contribute to your increased fuel consumption as well. All these factors may not contribute to your ways to save fuel. Here's my tip to measure your fuel consumption of your vehicle and to get the best possible gas mileage reading of your car. First, you would start by filling up your vehicle tank to the brim and then adjusting the trip meter to zero. You could do that just by resetting the meter. Next, drive the vehicle until at least two-thirds of the tank has been used before you fill up again. During this time, please take note of the amount of fuel you are filling up against the distance that you have travelled since the last time you topped up. Fuel consumption, in kilometres per litre, is calculated by dividing the reading on your trip meter by the amount of fuel that you have filled up. Based on my experience, it is best that you average out the results by repeating the same procedures and take measurements over a few weeks to obtain the average of the best consumption figure for your vehicle. Some car manufacturers will state the fuel consumption figures of the cars in the manual. Please be aware that these figures were obtained under strict test conditions and surveillance and also on an almost perfect road surface. So don't be alarmed when you notice the variance of the actual fuel mileage result you get against the manufacturers' figures. To really find out your actual car fuel consumption and to diagnose any sudden drop of fuel efficiency, you should keep track of your fuel consumption regularly as it is the best and surest way to tell when something is going on with your car. Once you've realized how easy it is to keep track of your car fuel consumption, you should be on your way to seriously consider some of the ways you could do to increase gas mileage even when you are pumping gas in the gas stations. Believe me, not everyone is aware of some of the stuff you could do to top up additional gas mileage. All these have been documented in my book "Gas Mileage Tactics" available at http://www.extragasmileage.com About the author: Sunny Tan is the author of "Gas Mileage Tactics", the ULTIMATE Gas mileage saving resources consist of many top notch tips and tricks the PRO drivers use. Topics include good driving techniques attitude, best adopted practice, and even using the Internet to find the best gas stations available in your town. Pick up YOUR copy of this ground-breaking ebook with absolutely NO RISK at www.extragasmileage.comand start to increase gas mileage of your car now... Circulated by Article Emporium |
Online Store Offers the Best Replacement and Aftermarket Parts for Top-Selling Full-Size Pickups |
by: Stacey Wilson |
Full-size pickup owners could now enjoy greater chance to upgrade their truck and make their old vehicle comparable with the latest in the industry in terms of performance, comfort, style and safety features. One of the biggest and most experienced dealers in the country, Auto Parts Fast, now offers top quality parts for full-size pickups including OEM-quality Ford Truck parts, Dodge parts , Toyota parts, Chevrolet parts, GMC parts and more. About the author: As a former news correspondent for an auto-related website, Stacey has gathered extensive knowledge and experience in the automotive industry. This 34 year old mother of two from Memphis is a genuine car lover. Circulated by Article Emporium |
Seeking the latest and accurate help concerning cars. |
by: Tom |
When you're trying to find top-quality advice about cars, you'll find it difficult extricating the best information from reckless cars submissions and help so it's prudent to know how to judge the information you are presented with. Find new & used Cars at CarsDirect.com New cars, trucks and SUVs are available. Find great deals on used cars too. Now we would like to offer you some advice which we advise you to use when you are trying to find information about cars. It is important to remember that the wisdom we're offering you is only pertinent to internet based information concerning cars. Unfortunately we are unable to provide any assistance or guidance for conducting research offline. Southern Electronics Car Radio and Speedometer Repair Factory trained technicians can help car owners troubleshoot over the phone. Also repairs car radio and speedometer makes including GM, Ford, Chrysler, and imports. A good hint to track when you're presented with information and advice about a cars website is to find out who owns the site. Doing this could reveal the owners cars authority The fastest way to determine who owns the cars website is to look on the 'about' page or 'contact' page. Any reputable website providing information regarding cars, will almost certainly provide an 'about' webpage which will record the owner's details. The details should let you know some indication about the website owner's expertise. This means you can conduct an appraisal about the webmaster's training and understanding, to offer guidance about cars. |