All posts in Auto Buying Tips

What to Look For When Buying a Used Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/05/13 in Used Autos & Trucks with Comments Off

Used cars are a great option for the drivers who love saving money. However, you must take extra caution when purchasing a previously-owned vehicle. Here are five tips to keep in mind when shopping for a used ride.

Do the Proper Research

Although a particular vehicle may initially capture your heart, you still need to do the proper research. After reading through the various online reviews, you may find out that the car has a common flaw. For example, some vehicles are prone to experiencing premature paint fading. Remember, the cost of a new paint job can exceed $1,000. Not only do you need to research the vehicle’s projected reliability, but you also need to find out the car’s current market value.

Beauty is Only Skin Deep

When shopping for a used vehicle, do not be fooled by its beautiful appearance. There could be plenty of problems going on beneath the surface. After starting the engine, keep an eye out for the presence of exhaust smoke. Unsurprisingly, a smoky engine is never a good sign. If you need help, do not hesitate to ask an experienced car person to tag along. Before finalizing any paperwork, be sure to obtain a vehicle history report.

Check the Mileage

Ideally, you should try to select a ride that has less than 100,000 miles on the odometer. However, some high-mileage vehicles can still last for many years to come. Make sure to take the car to a mechanic like Tischer Auto before making any final decisions as they can tell you what condition the car is in better than anyone else. The key is to choose a vehicle that has been well-maintained and will last you a substantial amount of time. If you are purchasing the vehicle from a private seller, ask to see their maintenance records and see if it has ever been in an accident before. Accidents can seriously inhibit the integrity and safety of the car if done incorrectly.

Consider Purchasing a Certified Pre-owned Vehicle

Unlike the average used car, certified pre-owned vehicles usually come with a lengthy warranty. Before being showcased on the dealership’s lot, a certified pre-owned vehicle must be thoroughly inspected for quality. If a vehicle fails to meet the strict standards of the certified program, it will not make the cut. Although certified pre-owned vehicles are just a tad bit more expensive, the prospective buyers will not have to worry about purchasing a lemon.

Know Your Needs

Do not make the mistake of buying a car that does not match your lifestyle. While a sports car can be fun to drive, it is not the best choice for a person who needs to haul around their children.

There is no overlooking the fact that used cars are far less expensive. However, be sure to take the necessary precautions.

Image credit: by cool3c, on Flickr

Work Hard, Play Hard: Top Vehicles for Maximizing Your Fun

by Anica Oaks on 2015/04/27 in Auto Collection with Comments Off

Although an old clunker will get you from point A to point B, the fun factor is virtually non-existent. Some drivers desire a tad bit more excitement on their daily commute. Here are some of the top vehicles for maximizing your fun.

Dodge Challenger Hellcat

If you are a true thrill seeker, the 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat will definitely get your adrenaline pumping. With the use of a supercharger, the Challenger Hellcat’s ultra-potent Hemi engine is able to pump out a monstrous 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. During performance testing, this exhilarating muscle car was clocked at a top speed of nearly 200 mph. In an effort to make the Challenger Hellcat handle like a true sports car, it also comes standard with adaptive suspension dampers. A computerized gauge cluster enables the driver to easily view the car’s performance data.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT

For years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been known for its amazing off-road capabilities, rather than highway performance. However, the new SRT model delivers the best of both worlds. Not only can the Grand Cherokee SRT tow up to 7,200 pounds, but it is also one of the fastest SUVs on the planet. In terms of power, a 475-horsepower Hemi engine enables the Cherokee to accelerate like a race horse. A specially-tuned AWD system enables this sporty Jeep to obtain excellent traction on the road.

Ram 1500 Black Express

Trimmed in black, the Black Express is a special edition of the 2015 Ram 1500 pickup truck. With a total of 395 horsepower on hand, the muscular V-8 engine emits a thunderous rumble. Some of the styling enhancements include 20-inch black wheels, projector headlights, and LED turn signals. This exclusive pickup truck can be seen at dealerships such as Expressway Dodge.

Chrysler 200S

First introduced to the automotive world in 2014, the new Chrysler 200 is one of the most fun-to-drive sedans on the market. In fact, the 2015 Chrysler 200 was recently named the Rocky Mountain Car of the Year. While all versions of the 200 are designed to deliver a pleasurable driving experience, the S model is especially exciting. Equipped with a sports-tuned suspension system, the 200S carves the road with precision. A variable valve timing system enables its Pentastar V-6 engine to pump out an impressive 295 ponies.

All four of these automobiles will deliver constant excitement. No one deserves to drive a boring vehicle.

Car Smarts: How to Protect A Vintage Collection

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/03/23 in Auto Collection with Comments Off

Vintage cars have a fan base all their own, and anyone who owns one or more of these collectible vehicles knows all about the passion they inspire. It’s also no surprise that protecting vintage cars and keeping them in the best condition possible is a big deal. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to keep your cars protected and in prime condition.

Store Them Properly

Oftentimes you can tell a serious car collector from a hobbyist just by looking at how they store their cars. Keeping vintage cars inside is crucial, so make sure you have space in the garage, or build a shop to house them. Just putting a cover over them in the driveway is not sufficient to protect them against the elements.

Use the Right Supplies

When it comes to cleaning and maintaining your classic cars, you need to make sure you are using the right supplies. This is everything from what you clean the interior with, what you use to wash the exterior, and what you put into the car such as oils and other fluids.

There are a lot of options available to choose from, so picking the right supplies can seem overwhelming. Take your time and do research on what professional car restorers use, as well as what other vintage car enthusiasts recommend.

By taking time up-front to make sure you’re using the right supplies, you’ll save yourself a lot of headache and frustration later. The wrong supplies can damage your car, and nobody wants that!

Get Professional Assistance

One of the biggest mistakes vintage car owners make is trying to do everything themselves. If you are a mechanic by trade, then you can probably do the maintenance on your own vehicles. But if you don’t know how to properly maintain your cars, hire a professional.

The same goes for things like needing a tow, or getting locked out of your car. Calling a professional locksmith service in Toronto or a tow company is a much better idea than trying to unlock the vehicle or move it yourself, especially if the company you call specializes in collectible cars. As Davies Lock & Door Services Ltd says, your car is less likely to be damaged if you get professional assistance when you encounter problems.

These are just a few of the things you can do to make sure your vintage cars are well taken care of and protected. By investing a little time up front, you can ensure your vehicles are in great shape for decades to come.

Six Things To Consider Before Buying A New Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/03/13 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Whatever you financial situation, investing in a new car is never a small matter. Due to the fact that new cars lose a substantial amount of value the moment they are driven off of the lot, you can never be sure that you are making a sound financial investment without having the right information in hand first. By understanding the right questions to ask at the time of purchase, you can be assured that you are purchasing a winner.

All Charges Considered

Many deals can look very good on the surface. However, hidden charges often abound when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle. Maintain complete transparency when it comes to the price you will be paying by considering every fee that will apply to the deal. Negotiations typically include only the price of the car. Figure out what the total cost will be to drive off of the lot by exploring the fees related to documentation, sales tax, registration, and other hidden charges that are in the interest of the dealer.

The Car You Are Actually Buying

The majority of cars on the showroom floor are outfitted with additional add-ons and options. It is not unusual for dealers to package these extras into the deal in order to raise profits. Insist that all information related to upgrades is disclosed before finalizing the purchase. The most common features to fall into this category include mud flaps, alarm systems, and vehicle-recovery systems. Buyers also regularly encounter “paint-protection” packages and other unnecessary, costly warranties.

Details Matter

It is standard for dealers to charge a fee for documenting the purchase. However, this fee for filling out paperwork related to the purchase is not standardized for all organizations. This fee can range between $100 and $600. Some states cap these charges by law. These charges are negotiable in almost all cases. Address the issue early in negotiations in order to keep your costs to a minimum.

Online Purchases

It is not unusual for buyers today to purchase vehicles through online sources without ever actually seeing the vehicle in person. In these cases, there are several considerations that come into play. Be sure that you are made aware of the number of miles on the vehicle. Not all new cars come with a flawless odometer. It is also wise to explore your options for vehicle delivery. This option can be included at the conclusion of negotiations in order to save a little extra money when it comes to gas and visiting the actual dealership.

Loans and Interest Rates

It is important to know every detail of a dealer-provided loan. Be completely aware of the additional costs and terms of the loan before making all agreements. When looking at the raw numbers, applying for a loan in order to purchase a new car is best done though a neutral, third-party entity.

Stand Your Ground

It is important to let a salesman know that you are prepared to walk away from a deal no matter how good it is on the surface. Ask them directly what the best possible offer is that they can give to you directly. This tactic almost always ensures a better price at the bottom line.

Purchasing a new car can be less stressful with these tips. Consider looking online to read more about the vehicle you are interested in.

Informational credit to Expressway Dodge.

5 Vehicles That Seamlessly Blend Quailty And Value

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/02/25 in Used Autos & Trucks with Comments Off

A car that blends quality and value seamless must have eco-friendly features and options that are suitable for families. Although many new vehicles are worth buying, there are five used automobiles that have key components that consumers greatly appreciate.

Honda Civic

The 2012 Honda Civic has a great fuel economy rating. According to the Environment Protection Agency, consumers who own any previous-generation Honda Civic typically spend $200 more each year on fuel. So, upgrading to any 2012 Honda Civic trim is a smart financial decision.

The Honda Civic is offered in three eco-friendly trims. Consumers can choose the Honda HF, the Honda Civic Hybrid, or the Honda Civic Natural Gas. Although each trim has useful features, the most fuel-efficient option is the Honda Civic Hybrid.

Ford Focus

The 2012 Ford Focus is an affordable vehicle that is big enough for a small family. In the rear cabin, there is plenty of headroom and legroom for kids and adult passengers. Consumers who need more space should purchase one of the upper trims. Besides additional space, the higher trims offer other features, such as a Sony sound system and sports seats.

Toyota Corolla

The 2012 Toyota Corolla has a very spacious driver’s seat. While driving, visibility is never an issue in the cabin. Thanks to the simple controls, operating the audio system and climate control system is a snap. Overall, since the trunk by roomy, the 2012 Toyota Corolla is an ideal automobile for family vacations.

Volkswagen Golf TDI

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf is available as a four-door hatchback and a two-door hatchback at many Volkswagen dealerships. Both options are great for long trips since the seats are supportive and comfortable. In the cabin, there is also an efficient navigation system, Bluetooth, and satellite radio.

Toyota Prius V

In the United States, the Toyota Prius has been a bestselling hybrid since it debuted in 2001. The 2014 Prius is a quality vehicle because it meets the strict emissions standard in California.

A variety of hybrid displays and gauges are found in the cabin. Because the readouts are easy to understand, passengers never have problems using them. For families, this Prius is a good option because it has sliding and reclining rear seats.

Besides these vehicles, there are many other automobiles that have valuable features. For example, if accessing and starting a vehicle is a key requirement, consider buying an automobile that has a keyless access and start function.

To obtain more information about many other vehicles, contact Tischer Auto.