Auto Magazine

Five Tips to Make The Car Buying Process Less Stressful

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/17 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Venturing out to purchase a vehicle means you’ll have a lot of details to attend to, and all of this can make you feel stressed out. Learning how to balance your budget and deciding to work with reputable and friendly dealers can help to alleviate these anxieties. Here are five tips to reduce the stress of buying a new car:

Determine Your Budget Beforehand

Even if this is your first trip to the car dealership, you could fall in love with a particular model and want to buy it on the spot. Trying to calculate how much you can afford while you’re standing at the dealership is a bad idea. Chances are, you won’t add up the figures correctly, and you could end up spending far more than you really can afford to. Sit down with your spouse or co-signer early on in the process to determine exactly how much you can spend.

Research Cars Online

People who are really familiar with different types of cars have an advantage here. For those who couldn’t tell a 2014 fancy model from a beat-up car built in 1999, this process adds in another element of stress. Get to know cars online before you go to the dealership. You can find out information about safety ratings and the types of technologies that are built into the vehicle. You can also read reviews about the cars and talk to people who own them.

Choose The Right Dealership

If you walk into a dealership and feel pressured to purchase the most expensive model right from the start, then you aren’t in the right place. Do your research on dealerships too, and work with one that is known for its friendly and reputable staff members. Working with people who have your best needs in mind and who know a lot about cars will help to reduce your stress levels.

Don’t Make it a Family Outing

While bringing the entire family to look at new cars can be fun, imagine how unnecessary it is to have your toddler running through the showroom and your infant screaming because they are hungry. Hire a babysitter for the day, grab dinner after you get your new car and make a date night out of it with your significant other. This will help make sure you don’t feel rushed or make a bad decision at the dealership.

Don’t Haggle Into The Ground

When you walk into the car dealership with an attitude, you are probably going to leave feeling aggravated and frustrated. Remember, the car dealership needs to make money too. While the professionals who work there are used to haggling to some extent, you have to realize that at some point, the sale would not be profitable for the company. Having reasonable expectations in terms of the price you can get is advisable.

If you follow these tips, you can have a shiny new vehicle without all of the stress.

Anita is a freelance writer from Denver and often writes about home, auto, family and business. She enjoys traveling with her family when she isn’t writing. Anita suggests talking with a Premier Mazda dealer to simplify the process of buying a car.

Which Models Will Stand the Test of Time? 5 Cars that Are Known to Last The Longest

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/16 in Auto Design with Comments Off

When it comes to choosing a car, most drivers want something reliable, durable, and something they can drive for the next 7 or 8 years. When you’re trying to find a car that will stand the test of time, consider factors like durability, design, and mileage. With that in mind, check out these five models that are proven to last and are top consumer picks.

Toyota Corolla Eco

The Toyota Corolla comes highly recommended not only because it’s a great mid-size car but also due to the good mileage it offers. A new Corolla can get 42 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in city driving. Corollas are known to excel in the durability department and can go strong for 200,000-300,000 miles or more when properly cared for. The maintenance cost of a Corolla is not overly expensive, making it one of the top picks for those who want a car to stick with them through the years.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza station wagon is another great choice for a long-lasting car that has gotten high consumer ratings. It offers 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city. This car can also go well over 200,000 miles and is known for its solid engine. Regular low-cost maintenance will keep it going, and the Impreza is a consumer favorite because it holds up well overall. When you don’t have to pay a ton in maintenance costs, its much easier to care for your car on a more regular basis.

Volkswagen Passat

If you watched the 2014 Superbowl, you might remember a fun little commercial done by Volkswagen boasting that VW has the most cars on the road over 100,000 miles—obviously a VW needs to make this list of most durable cars. Passat owners are happy with this zippy little model that sticks with them through thick and thin, lasts through their kids’ childhood, and accompanies them on countless family road trips. Volkswagen cars enjoy long lives for many reasons, the actual structure of the car being one major contributor. Engineers use laser seam welding to create a stronger frame for the car, and hot wax flooding is used to keep the car from corroding too fast.

Honda Accord

Another good option when you’re looking for longevity is the Honda Accord. It’s built well, and with routine maintenance will “go the distance” so to speak. Accords are notable for interiors that stay intact and keep a nice look as well. Their mileage isn’t too shabby either, with 34 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. They frequently last up to 300,000 miles, making them a reliable and obvious choice for plenty of consumers.

Toyota Prius

This is one of the top picks today for longevity and economy. The Prius goes an incredible 51 mpg on the highway and 48 mpg in the city, making it extremely fuel efficient. It can last for 300,000 miles with the proper care and maintenance. However, the battery is guaranteed to last at least 8-10 years, or 100,000 to 150,000 miles before needing replacement. As you can see, one of the keys to a long-lasting vehicle is easy and inexpensive maintenance, both of which the Prius can offer you.
These are five of the top vehicles to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a ride that will give you the longest service with minimal upkeep and maintenance. Some people enjoy trading in for a new model every year or two, but many people want to find a car they like and stick with it for as long as possible. If you’re the type of driver that wants to use a vehicle for all it’s worth before purchasing a new one, make sure you make the right choice from the beginning. Choosing a car that has proven it’s ability to stand the test of time, but that has also won a place in the hearts of consumers will ensure that you have a better chance of keeping the car throughout the years and getting your moneys’ worth for it.

AUTHOR BIO: This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, women’s interests, and technology. Dixie lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. Information for this article was provided by the auto professionals of National Transmission, who specialize in red deer transmission repair.

Car Decisions: Is it Worth Buying a Car that Needs Work?

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/15 in Used Autos & Trucks with Comments Off

While you are searching through the classifieds for a new ride, you may stumble across a vehicle that needs a few repairs. While your initial response may be to pass over the advertisement, the flawed vehicle may actually be a diamond in the rough. Once the vehicle is fixed, it may be able to last for many years to come. Here are some of the pros and cons of buying a car that needs work.

Cons: Fear of the unknown

Purchasing a vehicle that needs work always carries an element of uncertainty. For example, the seller may tell you that the vehicle will not crank due to a failed alternator. While this may be true, the car could also have other mechanical problems as well. Unfortunately, you will not find out until you install the new alternator.

Cons: Underestimate the cost of the repairs

At first glance, the total cost of the necessary repair work may seem very affordable. However, the damage could be more extensive than you originally thought. Upon taking the vehicle out for a test drive, you make notice that the steering is off-kilter. While the car may just need a simple wheel alignment, the steering problem could also stem from damage to the frame. Frame damage is very expensive to repair.

Pros: Leverage in negotiating a deal

Depending on the amount of work that is needed, you may be able to negotiate a great deal with the seller. Some people are in a financial bind and simply can not afford to make the repairs. This is a win-win situation for both parties. Although the cost to repair the vehicle may total $450, the low purchase price will more than make up the difference.

Pros: A new hobby

If you don’t need the car right away and are looking for something to do on the evenings and weekends, a project car may be perfect for you. Many people gain fulfillment in fixing up project cars. Often, the finished results are amazing, unique, and personal to you. There are plenty of books and websites to help you learn how to build up your new car.

You do not always have to buy brand new parts. Purchasing salvage parts can save hundreds of dollars, and may be more inexpensive than a flashier new car. For example, f the vehicle has a damaged fender, you should easily be able to find a dent-free replacement at the salvage yard.

Do not make the mistake of passing up a great car due to a few minor problems. The key is to take the time to analyze all of the critical factors. You can decide if you have the time and resources to fix up the car. You may even find a fun project.

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing about business and finance and spending time with her dog, Max. Information credited to www.salvageyardphoenixaz.com.

DIY Mechanic: How to Save Money on Auto Repairs By Doing Them Yourself

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/14 in Auto Repair with Comments Off

Saving money on auto repairs by doing them yourself is not terribly difficult. Parts are the least expensive portion of any auto repair equation. More than half the price you pay at a repair shop is in labor. Furthermore, there is a wealth of information and tutorials on the web to help you do just about anything on your car. All it takes is some tools and the willingness to get your hands dirty. The following are some easy repairs that often cost a small fortune at a shop.

1.Air Filters

These are the items that lube shops often try to sell with an oil change and the reason is that they are cheap and easy to replace, even for a lube tech. In most cars, the air filter is in a conspicuously large box in the engine compartment. It is usually held down with a combination of latches and bolts. Simply remove these, remove the filter and put in a new one.

2.Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are right on the front of the engine, one for each cylinder. On a 4-cylinder car, they will be right in a row, on 6 and 8 cylinder cars, they will be divided evenly. One important extra tool you will need for this job is a gap gauge to measure the gap and create a gap if you buy adjustable plugs.

3.Brakes

Brake pads are relatively easy to replace and often cost quite a lot at a repair shop. Rotors are more difficult and may be the culprit if you hear a grinding sound with your brakes. However, the standard squeaking just means the pads are worn.

4.Transmission Fluid Replacement

This is an important job for cars with automatic transmissions. It is also potentially safer to do this yourself as shops often do transmission flushes, which can actually damage the system, especially if they have never previously been done on the car. This job is similar to an oil change in that you drain the old fluid, replace the filter and then replace the fluid. Auto parts stores carry replacement pieces for leaking transmission systems, and can help you find a solution.

5.Belts and Hoses

These are fairly easy to identify for replacement. Hoses appear worn or cracked and belts may squeak or also appear worn. Simply remove the parts and replace them with new ones. Items you are likely to need to replace include drive belts, radiator hoses and serpentine belts.

Diagnosing car problems is generally more difficult than fixing them. If you have a new car, you may want to invest in a code reader. There are many easy car repairs you can do yourself instead of talking to mechanic that will save you both time and money.

Anita is a freelance writer from Denver and often writes about home, auto, family and business. She enjoys traveling with her family when she isn’t writing. Informational credit to Highway Auto Parts.

Six steps to preventing car theft

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/13 in Uncategorized with Comments Off

As a car owner, it is vital that you be conscious of areas that abound in crime. If you leave your car in a parking lot overnight, your car could be subject to theft and other crimes. You should make efforts to remain aware of the risks that you face in regards to car theft. Here are some tips that you should follow to avoid car theft in the future.

1. Always lock your car.

First, you should always make sure that you lock your car. You never know if a thieve is watching your area and waiting to prey on the car of a forgetful owner. The minute you walk away from an unlocked car, you give thieves the power to seize on your belongings or even steal your car.

2. Never leave valuable items in your car unattended or for long periods of time.

If you have valuable items in your car, this makes your car an attractive target for thieves. Thieves will want to try to gain access to your car to steal a designer handbag, expensive GPS system, shopping bags or other valuable items that you leave in the car.

3. Make sure that you have car theft insurance.

Investing in a car theft insurance policy is always smart. Sometimes, even the most cautious owner is subject to auto theft. The experience can be very unpleasant, but a car theft insurance policy will repay you for any lost or stolen items.

4. Never leave your windows open.

Leaving your windows open also makes your car a target for thieves. Thieves will view your vehicle as one in which they can easily access valuable items. Make sure that you always take the time to roll up your windows and protect your vehicle from potential thieves.

5. Use a vehicle immobilizer system.

A vehicle immobilizer system will prevent thieves from hot-wiring your car. A vehicle mobilizer system will protect your car from scrupulous thieves. There are also transponder keys that when there is a problem the car will not start until it has the right signal has been giving to the transponder chip within the key.

6. Don’t park in dangerous areas of unlit parking spots.

Always trust your gut. If you are in an area that feels uncomfortable or dangerous, then don’t leave your car there. Avoid driving in areas that have a reputation for being high-crime areas.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that you do not have to face car theft in the future. Preventing a car theft simply requires an awareness of your surroundings and ability to adhere to these easy safety tips. A few minutes of double-checking to see if your doors are locked could protect you from a theft that costs you thousands of dollars.

Informational credit to:
LockSmithPetalumaCA.com – bringing you and your family everything from transponder keys to a key less entry