Volkswagen, Jeep Mull Pickup Truck Options

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/25 in Volkswagen with Comments Off on Volkswagen, Jeep Mull Pickup Truck Options

After falling to historically low numbers during the last recession, the pickup truck market has rebounded. Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan and Honda each participate in this segment, serving up a variety of vehicles to meet consumer demand.

While Chrysler serves up Ram trucks, its Jeep division hasn’t had a model in decades. Volkswagen is a one-time player too, but it also lacks a model. Both manufacturers are weighing their options, considering what choices they have to get back in the market.

The following are among the ideas that may make this possible.

Jeep Pickup Truck

Jeep built the J10 pickup truck from 1971 to 1988. When it came to the end of its product cycle, Jeep was no longer part of American Motors, but firmly in Chrysler’s camp. And with Chrysler heavily vested in developing a new truck for Dodge, Jeep was left without a model of its own.

The Jeep Gladiator concept was developed in 2005 in a bid to gauge customer interest. The interest was there, but the DaimlerChrysler marriage was in trouble and headed for divorce. A healthier company probably would have developed this vehicle, but the timing just wasn’t right for Chrysler.

Jeep appears likely to get a pickup truck and a model based on the current Wrangler. At a special automotive event in Utah in 2012, Jeep showcased the J-12, itself based on a modified Wrangler body. It has a traditional look, a midsize truck concept that find niche customers if it is ever built. A 3.2-liter V-6 gasoline engine would be a natural fit as would the Italian-supplied 3.0-liter turbo diesel found in other Chrysler products.

Volkswagen Pickup Truck

Have you ever heard of the Volkswagen Amarok? Only if you are diehard VW fan. That pickup truck is of unibody construction and has been sold in dozens of markets beginning in 2010, but it isn’t available in North America. Volkswagen would love to regain the toehold it once enjoyed with its 1980s-era pickup truck based on the Golf/Rabbit platform, but it hasn’t made a commitment yet.

The Volkswagen Amarok would complete against other midsize trucks including the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and the Honda Ridgeline. Unfortunately, the Amarok may be too small to make much of a difference. It is powered by gas and diesel engines displacing at just 2.0 liters, which are quite small for today’s trucks.

What Volkswagen may do is develop a pickup truck exclusive to the North American market. That would require a significant investment in resources, at least $1 billion, with no guarantee of a sure return. One way to accomplish this goal without busting the bank is to share product development with another manufacturer. And with Hyundai and Kia both desiring to enter the market, a joint-development could be in the works with its Korean competitors.

Looking Ahead

Both Jeep and Volkswagen might jump back in the market if the newly reintroduced Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon succeed. Some manufacturers have given up on the small truck segment, but Toyota and Nissan haven’t. With GM now the third manufacturer battling it out, if sales rise across the board, then additional players may commit.

Erin is a professional blogger that provides tips and information on franchise opportunities and investments. He writes for Franchise Expo, the place to find the best franchise opportunities available.

Image source: wikipedia

New Or Used? What To Know When Shopping For Your Next Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/24 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off on New Or Used? What To Know When Shopping For Your Next Car

Many states now have a lemon law in effect, which means that you have a certain amount of time after buying a used car before you can return it. The law ensures that you don’t find yourself stuck with some old beater or junker because an unscrupulous seller wanted to take advantage of you. While the lemon law might protect you when it comes to buying a used car, you can save yourself some time and money when you know what to look for when buying a new or used car.

Resale Value

Did you know that a car depreciates with each mile placed on the engine? This means even though you just dropped $25,000 on a new car, the car is no longer worth $25,000. The resale value refers to how much you can sell that car for after you buy it. When looking at a new car, you want to consider how much it depreciates in the first few years of ownership, and with a used car, you need to look at the fair market value of the vehicle and decide if the selling price is a good one.

Cost of Ownership

The money that you spend upfront is only a drop in the bucket compared to the total amount that you’ll spend on that car. Most experts refer to the cost of ownership as the total amount you payout in the first five years after you bring home that car. This includes maintenance, gas, repairs and insurance. The cost of ownership can reach more than $30,000. Before you take your dream car off the lot, consider whether or not you can afford to pay an extra $5,000 to $6,000 or more every year.

Sticker Price is for Suckers

The only people who pay sticker price for a car are the ones who think the dealer is their best friend. A car dealer only makes money when people buy cars, and the more you pay, the more the dealer earns. You can’t even rely on the "invoice price" on the car either. Some dealers will tell you that this figure refers to how much the dealer pays for that car, but it’s usually just another markup. Let the dealer or seller know exactly how much you can afford, and if the seller balks, walk away. No matter how much you love one specific car, you won’t love it if you pay too much.

Tricia is a mom and a blogger from Beverly Hills. She recommends Diamond Honda of Puente Hills for your used or new car needs.

Putting the Credit History behind in Cozying with the New Automobile

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/21 in Auto Financing with Comments Off on Putting the Credit History behind in Cozying with the New Automobile

The credit history serves as a crucial aspect in procuring a loan. It is often the singular vital aspect at deciding your loan eligibility. In these times of economic hardships, the report rarely suggests a good score. Almost everyone finds it difficult to manage financial requirements perfectly. The defaulting bill amount is the sole aspect responsible into formulating your credit score. In such situations, you need to find services that deliver a credible solution. You need the car loan at any cost. The company should be able to assist. It should be able to connect you with adequate dealership agencies. Find local dealers offering convenient loan packages.

Verify specialist assistance

Verify specialist attendance from the lending service. Essentially, your best bet is to find a comprehensive website serving all parameters. The site should be able to help you connect with the preferred car. You just mention the model you want to purchase. The system at the website evaluates your application and locates the local dealers with your desired vehicle at their inventory. The company facilitates your connections. You call up the dealership service in setting an urgent appointment. You may need clarifications on different aspects. Financial arrangements demand transparency and clarity. Confirm whether the dealer scores well at these essential aspects.

Decide on original experience

You need to decide on the original experience of driving your preferred vehicle. Start by checking the actual user reviews on the car. Many websites note test-driving experiences. Check the response from multiple sites. You need to consult the dealer on whether you can test-drive the actual vehicle. Call up the agency in clarification. If the company does not have your preferred model currently, it should be able to inform of the future availability. Verify that you do not have to wait for long in accessing your chosen four-wheeler experience. Finding the right car is important. The company should be able to assist properly with the purpose.

Checking loan repayment terms

Verifying the essential loan repayment terms is essential. The terms and conditions of the arrangement must be convenient and reasonable. It makes no sense in taking out a loan that you cannot repay. Such situations make your very purpose vulnerable. After all, the lending agency can reclaim your vehicle at any time. You want to own the car permanently. Look up the final monthly rate you have to pay. However, it also depends largely on the amount you set aside for the primary down payment. You need to allocate a significant amount for primary clearance. This approach reduces your concurrent load significantly. Check whether the interest rate includes the applicable tax calculations. Find if there are hidden fees and charges. Talk all issues with the competent customer service staff at the specialist website. The support professionals clarify your queries and connect with the dealer who can help.

Selling the old car

You need to sell your old vehicle. Obtaining good prices on old units is very difficult nowadays. Used car values drop drastically. Finding a good salvage dealer is the best option. If your car is very old, you may have to sell it at scrap metal rates. The direct discussion with the dealer resolves the issues. Fill up the loan digital form and schedule an appointment with the showroom. You must be able to drive away your vehicle soon after you receive your loan assistance. Find if there are other formalities involved. 

With a good loan plan, everything falls into place. Finding the right plan is easy with the specialist dealer directory. Of course, the service should be smart and fast.  However, it must not trick you into choosing the wrong plan in a hurry. Always proceed following a detailed discussion on the issue. Talk with the support professionals in clearing all confusions. Following a systematic arrangement ensures you have the best deal. 

Author Bio: Jim Smith is a car loan and insurance specialist. Here, he explains how you can get your new car despite a poor credit score. The bad credit car loans are the best solutions in his recommendation.

Subtle Ways Your Car is Telling You It’s Time for a Tuneup

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/19 in Auto Maintenance with Comments Off on Subtle Ways Your Car is Telling You It’s Time for a Tuneup

Your car communicates with you in a number of subtle ways to indicate that it’s not running as well as it should and needs a tuneup. One does not have to be an expert mechanic to recognize the sights, sounds and smells of a vehicle that needs some attention. However, recognizing them and taking it in for regular maintenance can extend the life of the car and in the process save you plenty of money.

Keep an Eye on Those Indicators

Most modern automobiles are equipped with a host of gauges and warning lights to indicate that something is not functioning properly. Some indicators such as a "service engine" light may point to a general problem, while others may address a specific concern, including low coolant or engine oil levels. Warning lights need to be addressed as soon as possible. Another indicator that is more subtle but equally important is the odometer, which can be used to determine the mileage traveled since the engine was serviced.

The Vehicle Does Not Run Properly

The most common sign of trouble is that the car does not start properly or stalls after it gets running. This can be an indication of trouble in the fuel delivery system. The car may not deliver enough power during acceleration, which may indicate that it needs new spark plugs. Occasionally, an engine will continue to run after the ignition is switched off. Known as dieseling, this can be a sign of improper fuel combustion.

The Sounds and Smells of Trouble

Knocking sounds often point to a combustion problem, or that a higher grade of gasoline needs to be used. Grinding noises when turning or stopping can be an indication of trouble with the power steering or braking systems. A bad smell emanating from the exhaust can point to trouble with the catalytic converter. Pay attention to these subtle signs and make the needed changes to keep your car running properly.

Regularly Check Your Mileage

It’s wise to check your gasoline mileage, which can be done simply by recording the distance on the odometer since the last gasoline purchase. Poor mileage can be an indication of a number of engine problems, or something as simple as low tire inflation.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Even if your car is running properly, you should periodically visit a maintenance center for regular servicing. Professionals at Speedy Brake and Apollo Muffler say that doing regular maintenance on your car can save you from paying for costly repairs.

It’s important to recognize the signs that your car needs a tuneup and care for it on a regular basis. When your car sounds and feels right, it’s telling you that it’s in good shape.

The Auto Biz – Can You Make A Living Fixing And Selling Cars?

by Carsurfer Admin on 2014/03/18 in Auto Maintenance with Comments Off on The Auto Biz – Can You Make A Living Fixing And Selling Cars?

When going on craigslist or other resell sites, it is easy to see plenty of good deals on used cars. When finding these deals, many think they can flip them and make more money. While it is possible, it is wise for a person to consider the implications of every transaction. Not only that, one should look a little more deeply. When doing so, a person can discover it is possible to make a lot of money fixing and selling cars. Here are four things to consider with this business venture.

Money

First and foremost, when you want to start this business, you will have to spend a lot of money. Think about it, it, not only will you need a large garage with a lot of tools, but you will need to buy the cars. This can easily cost you thousands of dollars. Of course, if you can resell the cars at a profit, you will make a lot of money and can justify this cost easily.

Space

As mentioned, when you want to fix up cars, you will need plenty of space. Not only will you need an outdoor area, but you will probably want an indoor garage. For this reason, if you want to resell cars and make money, you need to have a lot of free space. Ideally, if possible, you should do this at your house as you can, with ease, fix cars without getting bothered by neighbors. On the other hand, if you have to rent a place, you will have a hard time as it is not easy finding a cheap place to work on cars.

Parts

Now, when you buy a broken down car, you will need to get new or used parts to fix the problem. These usually do not come cheap, and you must shop around and look for the best deals. Either way, when thinking about profits and losses, you should factor parts. You could also buy cars just for the parts, and sell the parts to other car repairmen. You’ll need to package the parts and ship them, though. Look into the cost of parts bags for auto dealers, boxes, and shipping costs.

Risk

When unloading cars, you will always take a bit of a risk. For starts, you will put out a lot of your own cash on the transaction. Furthermore, when you buy a car, you may discover more issues when looking at it more deeply. For this reason, you should factor this into your business plan.

If you want to make money buying and reselling cars, you can make a lot of money. This comes at a risk. But, with enough research and hard work, you can make some serious cash.

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