All posts in Auto Buying Tips

New Car: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/02/09 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Buying a new car is a major investment, so before sending off your old model for recycling, it’s a good idea to do some research and make certain that buying a new car is right for you. Look at these factors before you finalize your decisions or finances.

Can I Afford It?

One of the primary decision-making factors in buying a new car is whether it fits into your personal or family budget. Many things contribute to the answer to this question. Start by knowing your credit rating and what sort of loan rates you are likely to be eligible for. Remember that those car commercials promising the $99 or $129 a month payment always include the disclaimer "with qualifying credit". Know what your financing options are before you head to the car lot.

Be sure to include all the expenses related to purchasing a new car in the decision. Are you ready for the down payment, tax and license fees, and the increased cost of insurance? Create a budget before you ever start looking at cars so you know what you can afford not what the car salesman wants you to buy.

What am I Looking for in a New Car?

People buy new cars for a variety of different reasons. If you are looking to save money by getting a more reliable car to replace the old clunker you are sending to recycling yards, read reviews regarding dependability. Find out which cars offer warranties, and which ones are known for their breakdowns.

Another reason some people buy new cars is to save on gas money. In this case, be sure to do the math. Some people assume that the higher price of a hybrid is worth it because of the savings at the gas pump, but that might not be the case. Figure out the average number of miles you drive a year and what you are paying for gas in your current vehicle. Then, figure out what gas will cost you to go the same number of miles in the new car.

What Features Do I Want/Need?

Car dealers get the best mark up, that’s profit for the dealer, by selling you a car loaded with features, so knowing before you go whether you want the satellite radio and blue tooth compatibility is vital. If you really need those automatic windows or sliding doors make sure you know which model still offers what you want without going with the highest price.

Buying a new car is a major investment, but there are great reasons to do it. Just make sure you know yours before you buy. You can be prepared for anything the dealer throws at you if you prepared beforehand.

5 Inside Tips for Anyone Buying a New Car in 2015

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/01/23 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Each year, vehicle designers, developers, and marketers make changes and improvements to models that have been around for decades in order to enhance the driving (or riding) experience. While many new features merely act as marketing gimmicks, there are some new features that can actually be beneficial. If you’re in the market for a new car, the following insider tips will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect car in 2015.

Search for Technology that Suits Your Needs

Do you live in a major city that offers only the smallest of parking spaces? Where will your new sales job take you this year? Do you spend most of your days driving kids to school, violin lessons, and karate? The main use of your vehicle will help determine what technology to look for when car shopping. One of the most sought after tech features of 2015 is Internet connectivity. Cars such as the new 2015 Audi A3 and brand new Chevy Silverado 1500 both offer a wireless Internet connection. Whether you’re on a long road trip with the kids, or want access to all your files or information remotely, Internet access has many benefits.

For those stay-at-home moms or busy families that are always on the go, cars like the 2015 Kia Sedona SX-L are a great option. Like the Ford Escape, the rear door opens automatically if you approach the vehicle with an armful of bags. Known as the Smart Power Liftgate, similar technology is fast becoming standard on SUV, crossovers and minivans from many auto manufacturers.

Purchase a Car with New Safety Features to Keep Your Insurance Rates Down

If you’re looking to keep your insurance premiums to a minimum in 2015, consider buying a car with exceptional safety features. The 2015 Hyundai Genesis Sedan offers a number of improved safety features that will both save your life and keep your pocketbook happy. The lane keeping assistant, radar cruise control and emergency auto braking feature have all been available on luxury cars in previous years, and Hyundai has now brought them to a car that the average American can afford. Consider these features when purchasing a new car if you plan on driving long distances with your family or friends.

Check New Prices for Luxury Vehicles

Prices have declined for some of the major luxury car models in the past couple years, and this year is no different. A brand new Mercedes Benz C Class Sedan used to come with a sticker price of more than $45,000. Now, middle class consumers can afford an entry level model for less than $39,000. Other new cars, including the Audi A3 and Buick can be purchased for less than $30,000.

Look for New Technology in Sports Cars

Sports cars have come a long way in recent years. If you’re a two door enthusiast, don’t be surprised to find an abundance of technology features packed into your dream ride. The 2015 Ford Mustang is a great example. From an advanced navigation system to an integrated mobile apps feature, this is a prime choice for spontaneous cross-country drivers.

Determine Your Insurance Premium by Purchasing the Right Car

While purchasing a vehicle with new safety features is a great way to save on monthly insurance premiums, you can save even more by researching which car models can significantly reduce the money that comes out of your pocket for coverage. Before you purchase a car, compare insurance rates on multiple models to see which one fits your budget.

2015 will be a great year for new car models, especially when you consider the new technology that will be introduced by many of the brands. When shopping for a new car in 2015, be sure to consider your monthly budget, technology needs, safety preferences, and you’ll be more satisfied with your purchase.

The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Registrations Are Us who offer Spruce Grove license renewal and vehicle registration.

6 Trucks that Seamlessly Blend Comfort and Functionality

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/01/14 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Today’s trucks aren’t your grandad’s rusted out old rig; they offer all the comforts of a highway car. These new trucks handle everything from towing trailers and hauling heavy loads to comfortable commuting and vacation travel for the whole family.

1. Car-like Comfort: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

With its car-like ride and luxurious interior, the Silverado handles daily commutes or long road trips in comfort. It can tow a trailer, carry a big load, or go off-road. Engine choices range from more economical 6-speed automatic V6s to an eight-speed automatic 6.2-liter V8 with a 12,000-pound tow rating.

2. Chrysler Ram 1500: Comfort and Performance

With a comfortable ride, widely-praised interior styling, and a well-designed cabin, the Ram’s smooth-shifting standard 8-speed automatic balances power with comfort. Choose 2WD or 4WD, V6 or V8, diesel or gas, and a variety of cabin styles and trim levels.

3. Ford F-150: The Most Popular Choice

The Ford 150 remains the best-selling truck in North America. This full-sized workhorse tows up to 11,300 pounds and carries 3,120 pounds, with a 81.3 cubic feet cargo box, several V6 and V8 engine choices, and a six-speed automatic transmission with a haul/tow mode. You can choose standard, extended or crew-style cabins.

4. Chevrolet Colorado: Best Gas Mileage

With a top-rated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, the Chevrolet Colorado is the mid-size truck of choice for high-mileage drivers. With a choice of automatic or manual transmissions, V4 or V6 engines, and standard, extended or crew cabins, this versatile truck can carry up to 1,590 lbs. of payload and tow trailers up to 7,000 pounds.

5. Toyota Tacoma: Economical Off-Roader

The Tacoma is an economical performer, compact enough to fit in small parallel parking spaces and navigate narrow jeep trails or sandy washes equally well. Its quickness and agility make it the choice for drivers who need to navigate both urban traffic and backcountry wilderness.

6. Nissan Frontier: Most Affordable

The compact Nissan Frontier offers a low sticker price and good gas mileage. You can choose 2WD or 4WD, manual or automatic, and V4 or V6 engines, with a maximum 1,524 pounds payload and 6,500 pound trailer. It offers a state-of-the-art infotainment system including hands-free text messaging.

Although you can research trucks on the internet, what matters most is how they feel on the road and how they suit your driving style. Expressway Dodge can configure trucks for your needs.

Determining Your Needs When Buying Your First Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/01/02 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

For most people, the moment they get behind the wheel of their first car is the moment when their first real taste of genuine freedom begins. Unfortunately, it is also a time when so many people purchase more car than they really need. In order to avoid acquiring a first car that does not fit your needs, it is smart to make a realistic assessment of why you need a car.

Establishing A Budget for Your First Car

Before running out and dropping a wad of cash on the first automobile you see, it is best to take an inventory of your available funds. It is also important to determine if you will need help with financing and how much additional money you will need for a purchase. Though a lot of first-time car buyers will need financing, this is not a reason to buy the most expensive car you can obtain a loan to purchase. Rather, it is far more responsible to sit down and realistically determine how much of a monthly car payment you will be able to manage for the next five-years. The greater your down payment, the smaller the car loan you will need to obtain to purchase your first car. Working this out ahead of time will certainly help to ensure the car you obtain fits your financial needs.

How Much Gas Guzzling Can You Put up With?

When purchasing a first car on a tight budget, it is best to be conservative in the spending department. Not only do you want to get your first car at a great price, you also want to avoid purchasing a gas guzzler. Even if prices of gas appear to be heading down over the short term, it is prudent to anticipate that oil and gas prices will eventually surge back above three dollars a gallon. That being said, it may not fit your particular needs to purchase a car that is fuel efficient. Consequently, if money is not an issue, and you simply want a fast car, then you may be in more of a position to skimp on concerns associated with the purchase of a gas guzzler.

What Will You Be Using Your Car For?

One of the most important needs to consider when buying your first car is why you need the car you want to purchase. If, for example, you happen to be a live-at-home student, it is unlikely that you will need a car for long distance traveling. Consequently, a slightly used car with low miles is potentially a smarter purchase than a brand new car for meeting your particular needs. On the other hand, if you happen to be an executive who spends most of your time driving a lot, then a more reliable new car with a high fuel efficient rating is the smarter choice. If you need a car that reflects your high status, a more expensive luxury car will better fit your situation and help you to maintain your image.

Other Passengers Or Not

An often-overlooked aspect of first-time car buying is the issue of how many people will be riding in the car being purchased. You might be a young first-time car buyer, but you might be married or have children in the near future. As a result, you may need a car that has a little more room to tote others around with you. In addition, you might need a car for transporting people other than family–especially if you are involved in other social functions. Or, you may be the only one who ever sets foot in your car. Alternatively, you may only transport an occasional passenger. In such cases, a smaller two-seater may suffice to satisfy your transportation needs.

There are many factors that must be considered when searching for the right car that best fits your particular needs as a first time car buyer. With careful planning and a little attention to detail, you will be able to find the right car for your purposes. It is important to keep in mind that the right car is not always a new car. It is not always necessarily the most expensive car you can afford either. Rather, the right car will simply do what you need it to do most, which for most people is getting them from Point A to Point B.

Informational Credit to Valley Driving School

On Your Own: Guide to Owning Your First Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/11/26 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Whether you are living at home or you are on your own, the first car you own is a big responsibility. A car is an investment and you’ll want to make sure your money goes to good use and your car stays in shape. Learn these tips for keeping track of your car’s well-being, and making it last as long as you can.

Get to Know the Owner’s Manual

Every car is different, and the place where you start to learn about your car and how to keep it running, is in the owner’s manual. The owner’s manual will teach you what every light and switch in the car means, and will also tell how you can do some minor repairs. Remember that keeping basic DIY repair manuals on hand will also go a long way in maintaining the vehicle through all the seasons you and your car face.

Top It Off

It feels like it goes without saying, but keep your gas tank full. It is far easier to fill up the tank than it is to run on fumes, and it is also important when you want to keep your car in good shape during the winter. The last thing you want is to run out of gas on the highway, so why chance it? Gas is pricy, so budget accordingly.

Learn to Check the Tire Pressure

With good care, regular rotation, and careful attention, your tires can last for quite some time. Make sure you are aware of how much wear you put on your tires. Learn to check the tire pressure at the gas station, and keep an eye out for tacks in the tires, and wear on the walls. If possible, try to get new tires before each winter.

Get Insurance

Car insurance is required often and is not a luxury item. Get insurance, and pay for as much as you can. This is what will keep you safe in the event of an accident and give you money to get by if something happens. Keep the proof of insurance in your glove box, and be ready to present it if you need to.

Drive Responsibly

Drive the car you have, not the one you wish you had! Don’t push the car faster than it can go, and respect the limitations you may have with your model. Stay safe, and always be aware of any problems, no matter how trivial. If your car does not have four wheel drive, try not to take it into rough territory.

Learning to take care of a car is an important part of living on your own, so be diligent in checking every part, especially during the harder months.