Don’t Get Ripped Off – What To Know About Buying A New Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/07 in Auto Financing with Comments Off on Don’t Get Ripped Off – What To Know About Buying A New Car

When buying a new car, you can spend all of your hard-earned money. However, this is a wise investment to make if you want reliable transportation for a long time. With this in mind, it is not easy to just go to a dealer and pick out a car and finance it. No, a buyer should know how to avoid common pitfalls. With this in mind, here are four things to avoid so you do not get ripped off when buying a vehicle.

Know the value

Without a doubt, when you walk into a dealership, you should know what car you want to buy. More importantly, you should know the true value of the vehicle. To do this, shoppers should go online and search for the prices of new cars. When doing so, you can find the value. Then, when walking into the dealer, you will have the upper hand in the negotiation process.

Negotiate

As mentioned, you will want to negotiate the price. To do this, you must first know the value of the car. Then, you should sit down with the salesperson and come up with a figure. When doing this, prepare for them to balk at the first tor second offer. Salespeople would rather make a sale than let you walk away. Once you come up with a price, you should try to nail him or her further down so you can save money.

Extras

Some employees will try to force you to spend more on features or products. Do not fall for this. For example, some dealerships will try to force people to buy a warranty. In reality, when buying a new car, this is not a good deal. Instead, you should politely decline their requests. Remember, if you want additional features or a warranty, you can revisit this later.

Really look at financing

When you use the dealership to finance a car, you will not always get the best price. To figure this out, you should first head to a bank or credit union to look at loans. Then, when you talk to the dealership, you will know what to ask for in a loan. Dealerships like Findlay Auto Subaru are great at helping people finance vehicles on a plan that’s affordable and quick.  Either way, while it is not a bad thing to use the dealership for the loan, you must explore all your options if you want to get the lowest interest rate.

With these four tips, you can find the best price on a used car. Otherwise, if you do not do this, you may get ripped off.

GM Recalls: What the Recall of Over 1 Million Cars Means for GM’s Future

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/04 in Auto Design with Comments Off on GM Recalls: What the Recall of Over 1 Million Cars Means for GM’s Future

On Feb. 27, GM issued a recall of nearly 1.4 million vehicles made between 2003 and 2007 after faulty ignition switches were associated with their engines suddenly switching off while in operation. The switch failures disabled power systems in the vehicles, which included disabling airbags, and are associated with 13 reported deaths. While several companies have been forced to recall models over the years, any recall that involves fatalities has the potential to do serious damage to a company.

Read ahead for a look at what has happened since the recall and what the future holds for GM.

Affected Models and Years

At present, GM confirms that the 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, 2005-07 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-07 Chevrolet HHR, 2006-07 Pontiac Solstice, 2007 Saturn Sky and 2007 Pontiac G5 are the focus of the recall. Obviously, this effects a huge number of drivers, which does not help GM’s situation. The enormity of the situation has really taken a toll on GM’s reputation and image.

Delay in Recall

GM said that the first report of a possible ignition switch malfunction came in 2003 after one of its engineers experienced an engine shutdown during a test drive. At the time, the automaker did not regard the power failure as anything serious. Even though vehicles’ power brakes and power steering were disabled, it was possible to operate them manually. Engines restarted after shifting them into “park” or “neutral,” and the failure was not regarded as critical at the time.

GM admitted that its investigation into the malfunction and accidents was not as dedicated and thorough as it should have been. At the same time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is under fire for its slowness in investigating the crashes and pursuing appropriate action.

What GM is Doing

GM is offering free repairs to present owners of the affected model years. Owners are advised to use only a single key when starting their vehicles until repairs can be made. Additional items should be removed from keyrings. Heavy keyrings and jarring the key have been associated with the malfunctions, according to the automaker.

What Lies Ahead

What will happen to GM? No one is certain, but Toyota is embroiled in a similar suit after sticking accelerator pedals caused vehicles to accelerate out of control, resulting in fatal accidents. That company is involved in an ongoing criminal investigation in New York. At the least, GM is likely to pay a very hefty multi million-dollar fine, and it may very well find itself in the middle of a similar investigation. While this is not a good time for GM, we have seen other companies bounce back from embarrassing recalls. If they do bounce back, it could take years to rebuild their reputation and try to repair the company.

GM’s ten-year lack of attention in investigating the ignition switch failures is a black mark against the company’s reputation. It is not possible to look into the future, but comparing its situation with other automakers that have gone down the same road makes it likely that GM may have a short-term sales decline and lower financial performance for a several years while it pays the fines.

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 experts of salvageyardlosangeles.com who specialize in used auto parts.

Shop Smart: Five Tricks for Trading In Your Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/04 in Auto Trades with Comments Off on Shop Smart: Five Tricks for Trading In Your Car

By trading in your vehicle, you ensure the best deal in one single transaction. Like most large purchases, there are some do’s and don’ts to the transaction. If you are ready to trade in your car, there are some important steps to getting the best deal. Here are a few ways to avoid getting ripped off.

Don’t Say "Trade"

When you start working with a dealership, there is no obligation to state up front that you want to trade in your car. You can go there with your financing already approved elsewhere, which is recommended by many car sites such as Edmunds.com. You can listen to their sales pitch and work out a figure. Once you think you have the best deal on the table, you then say "I have decided that I want to trade." At this point, be ready with the value. Dealers will negotiate better when they do not know you are trading in your vehicle.

Know the Value

Before you go, find out the basic value of your car via a site such as Kelley Blue Book. You can find more information on your model and automaker at KBB, Edmunds, Car and Driver, AutoGuide and more. There are tangible ways to prove its intrinsic worth such as stellar safety ratings, automaker reputation for longevity, and advanced technology despite its age. Trim level, dashboard tech, and luxury features such as leather seating are other factors. This knowledge will help you keep your mind clear when a dealer argues about your car’s worth.

Demonstrate the Options

In the car ads, find cars of a similar year/make to yours. You should look at their Blue Book values versus the advertised cost. You can strengthen your bargaining position by demonstrating that you know how much used cars are worth. Arming yourself with verifiable facts will strengthen your bargaining power.

Show the Value

If you keep records on maintenance and repairs, put that together in a folder. You don’t need to show it until you have a figure. As soon as a trade-in amount is proposed, get your folder and demonstrate that this car has been well-cared for. Perhaps you have purchased tires recently. That can help you negotiate a higher trade in amount. Dealerships will appreciate this information because it will make the car easier to sell. They will be happy to work with you and your information.

Put Your Best Tire Forward

Take time to detail the car inside and out. It may be worth paying a professional for how much it will increase your trade in value. Many times old carpet can look like new after the application of a $5 bottle of carpet shampoo. Be sure to use one that is specifically for cars, and follow the instructions carefully.

When you pull into a dealership, be armed with knowledge, and do not give them your keys before you feel good about the trade-in deal.

Information credited to National Transmission, Red Deer, Alberta Transmission

Knowing Your Options In An Accident: 5 Facts Most People Don’t Know

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/03 in Auto Accident with Comments Off on Knowing Your Options In An Accident: 5 Facts Most People Don’t Know

A car accident is a burden for everyone. However, know that you have options when it comes to getting justice. No case is entirely predictable, but you do have some control over the results of your accident lawsuit. There are 5 facts that you should know if you ever get into an accident.

1. Increase Your Odds By Getting Everything in Writing

The court does not pay much attention to people who do not have written proof. The judge wants to see the police reports, insurance claims or medical bills up close. It is important to get every detail down in writing. It is easy to make a call and request for these documents. The more evidence you have, the more likely your case wins.

2. The Attorney Fees Could Take a Lot Out of Your Judgment

Before you get excited about getting a large settlement, know that you have to pay off the attorney. The contingency fee usually varies from 25 to 45 percent. And you could end up with less than half of the money needed to pay medical bills.

3. There Are Different Ways to Reach a Settlement

There is more than one way to reach a settlement for an accident. If you cannot resolve the matter in court, you can arrange a dispute resolution between the opposing sides. The dispute resolution is usually faster and less expensive. During this resolution, a third party is hired to hear both sides of the case and talk over important issues. Many people have heard of a settlement, but they do not know the exact details. They have options if they want to make a settlement.

4. All Lawsuits Have Deadlines

A lot of people think that they can sit around until they are ready to file an accident lawsuit. However, they should know that statutes of limitations apply to every case. Every state has different time frames, but the average one is two years. In states like North Dakota, the deadline is six years. In Kentucky and Louisiana, the accident victims have one year to take action.

5. You Are Not Always Likely to Prove Emotional Distress

You cannot always collect money for emotional distress or pain and suffering. Your personal injury attorney may want to do this, but proving this claim is not as easy as you think. Unless you saw a loved one die or suffered paralysis, it is hard to prove this claim. You can try, but your attorney is not likely to consider this option.

There is a whole field of lawyers who specialize in helping auto accident victims. To receive compensation for a crash, consider all of your choices. Decide if you want to obtain a judgment or settlement. Choose the right attorney to work by your side. Know the various steps that you must take to win your case. Having the right knowledge behind you will help you through this process and in turn help you get the kind of settlement you deserve if you choose that route.

Author:
Brionna Kennedy is native to the Pacific Northwest, growing up in Washington, then moving down to Oregon for college. She enjoys writing on fashion and business, but any subject will do, she loves to learn about new topics. When she isn’t writing, she lives for the outdoors. Oregon has been the perfect setting to indulge her love of kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking. For this article she took a lot of information from the Attorney Firm of Joseph M. Todd, to inform you on the different options when in a car accident.

Car Shopping Guide: Best Models to Buy New

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/04/02 in GMC, Honda, Nissan, Subaru with Comments Off on Car Shopping Guide: Best Models to Buy New

Purchasing a new car is a major financial investment for most people. Ideally, you should seek to buy a vehicle that offers long-term value and driving satisfaction. Unfortunately, all vehicles are not engineered with the same level of quality. Here are a few of the best models that are best to buy new.

2014 Honda Civic Si

The Honda Civic Si is arguably the most reliable performance car on the market. The car’s sporty driving dynamics make it a good choice for the drivers who crave excitement on their daily commute. Prospective buyers can expect the Civic Si to deliver great fuel economy, and to maintain an excellent resell value. The 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine is known to last for at least 300,000 miles without needing an overhaul. The best part is that the Civic Si still delivers over 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500

newgmtruck

The 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the best pickups trucks for the money. Although there is a V-8 engine offered, the six-cylinder engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy. Unlike some of the other high-tech engines on the market, the Sierra’s 4.3-liter engine has a very simple design. This means that most backyard mechanics will find the engine to be very easy to maintain. Although the towing capacity is rated at a hefty 7,200 pounds, the truck still has a frugal fuel economy rating of 24 mpg on the highway.

Nissan Altima

buynewaltima

Engineered with a well-built chassis and a reliable engine, the Altima will last for many years to come. Owner surveys reveal that the Altima has very few problem areas even after 100,000 miles. While the V6 version delivers a beefy 270 horsepower, most people will find the 182-horsepower base engine to be just as entertaining. With 45 inches of legroom in the front, even drivers who are well over six-feet tall will fit comfortably.

2014 Subaru Crosstrek

buynewsub

Very few all-wheel drive SUVs can match the Crosstrek’s 33 mpg highway fuel economy rating. While the Crosstrek may appear small on the outside, there is an abundance of interior room for the family. While the Crosstrek is not capable of towing heavy loads, it is still rugged enough to take on an off-road trail from time to time.

All four of these vehicles are excellent choices for the driver who is seeking a long-term commitment. Every owner can expect great fuel efficiency, excellent resell value, and a satisfying driving experience.

“Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and recent college graduate. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She used www.aircompressorla.com/services/ as a resource for this article. Contact her via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.”

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →