Auto Magazine

What to Know About Buying a Car in 2017

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/02 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

The automotive world is always interesting. There are new hot releases every single year, and automotive fans are always on the lookout for the amazing cars of the future. We are going to talk a little bit about how to buy a new car in 2017. Read on to find out more.

The Right Options

If you purchase a new car, the dealer can customize it the way you want it. Dealers, like those at Woody Sander Ford, will work hard to please you in terms of options, exterior colors, and interior features. A new car is not a used car. For instance, used cars can smell funny, might have tons of accidents, and the list goes on. Yet, certain dealerships will also have used vehicles in their inventory too.

Warranty

A used car can have a warranty, but it will be inferior to that of a new car. A new car will have a strong warranty backed up by the manufacturer itself. For instance, a Mercedes-Benz has a 5-year warranty from the manufacturer, and you might be able to extend this warranty up to 7 years. Isn’t it amazing? Yes, it is. The new car will also come with the latest gizmos such as top-tier navigation and multimedia interfaces that will allow you to enjoy an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. You will also enjoy the latest safety features such as adaptive cruise control, brake assist, blind-spot monitoring systems, and much more.

Lower Emissions and Better Financing

A new car will emit lower emissions as well. It will also enjoy higher fuel efficiency, as automakers will go above and beyond to make the car the new star in the automotive industry. There are lots of hybrid cars out there, and the diesel technology is getting better and better with every new model that comes out these days as well. Your bank will lend you money to buy a new car easier than if you wanted to buy a used one, as the new car has not been hit by any sort of depreciation at all.

Free Maintenance

Since your car is new, it might even enjoy a full year of free maintenance. This will depend on the type of car and other things. A new car will allow you to avoid tons of legwork, as you will not have to go from a used lot to another used lot. The top condition of your new car is undeniable. You will enjoy a lot of good driving, and your car will not be a source of problems for you in the short term at least. Remember that the value of a new car is great not only in terms of money but also in image and class.

New Releases to Consider

Although there are many different types of vehicles for you to consider, you should definitely check out these four to see if they are right for you:

2017 Acura NSX
2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia
2017 Audi A4
2017 Ford Fusion Sedan

As you can see, buying a new car in 2017 is not a harsh task. Now you have more information to get the most out of your car. So all you have to do is take bold action and have fun with your new car right away.

Top Gear: 5 Ways to Break in your New Hot Rod

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/12/30 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

The purchase of a new hot rod is one that takes time and careful consideration. You work hard for your money, and this is a significant investment. You want to get the most out of your purchase, and this requires you to take steps in ensuring your motor lasts. Whether you have just purchased your hot rod or have had it sitting in your garage for some time awaiting much anticipated use, there are five ways to break in your hot rod that you’ll want to keep in mind.

1. Breaking in the Cam

Before taking your hot rod out on the road, it’s a good idea to first make sure the cam is properly broken in. To achieve this, start the vehicle and rev it up to around 2,500 rpm for an extended period of around 20 minutes. This level can be varied, but it’s a good idea to keep your rpm below 3,000. Keep in mind this practice should only be taken when working with a freshly assembled vehicle.

2. Gas in Carburetor

Using care, pour a small portion of gasoline into your carburetor. For those with a mechanical fuel pump, remember that prior to the fuel reaching the carburetor it first must be drawn up from its source. Furthermore, if dealing with an electric fuel pump, ensure you turn it on during this procedure as well as pull the throttle back. This allows you to ensure fuel is making its way into the carburetor.

3. Avoid Speed Racing

This can be a tough one to follow. After all, you likely bought your hot rod to experiment with how fast you can get from zero to 60. However, during the initial break-in period, it’s a good idea to drive the vehicle normally and avoid redlining it. Keep your rpm’s low and treat the vehicle as you would your family car as you break it in. Some things to avoid include:

Testing its top speed
Towing heavy loads during the first 1,000 miles
Drag racing

4. Keep Interior in Mind

When you first purchase your hot-rod, it can be tempting to slather the interior with cleaning products. However, overusing typical protectants can actually lead to premature cracking. Do consider using Scotchgard on the cloth upholstery and carpets.

5. Changing the Oil

It’s a good idea to go through these four procedures in close succession in order to properly break in your new hot rod. Also, when you’re finished, it’s a good idea to take some time to change your oil. At places like Findlay Auto, a dealership that specializes in used cars in St. George, you can easily find the parts you need as well as additional services. Some of the things the staff can do to help your new hot rod are:

Inspect engine for contaminants
Ensure the cam lobes won’t prematurely wear out
Offer additional advice in breaking in your new hot rod specific to your unique vehicle

An Investment That Can Last

While it may seem that letting your hot rod sit in the garage is a good way to preserve it, there are actually many things that can go wrong by following this practice. From a draining battery and rotting tires to broken down fuel pumps, a rusted gas tank and more, a sedentary car isn’t a healthy one. You need to get your hot rod out on the road regularly to ensure optimal lifespan of your investment. When you follow these five helpful tips, you can be on your way to breaking in your new hot rod and enjoying many years of fun.

Avoid Accidents: Tips for Recognizing a Dangerous Driver

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/12/28 in On the Road with Comments Off

Driving carefully and responsibly is not enough to avoid an accident. It is important to be aware of what other drivers are doing as well. Every day good drivers are involved in accidents caused by someone else. To avoid this, everyone should be aware of who they are around at all times when out on the road, and understand how to detect the ones that are the most dangerous.

Changing Speeds Constantly

Repeatedly slowing down and then speeding back is a sign that could point to several problems. The person could be distracted, they may be unfamiliar with the vehicle they are driving or they may be a nervous, or novice driver. In each instance they are a potential risk because they may not have the control over the vehicle needed to prevent an accident.

Obvious Distracted Drivers

Someone actively chatting on their phone, eating a meal or driving with a dog in their lap has too much going on to really pay attention to the road. Vehicles with these drivers should always be avoided. For example, many motorcycle drivers have to pay attention to distracted car and truck drivers as their vehicle is a little more of a rarity on the road. If other individuals are involved in an accident there can be increased risk, so get people like Ramzy Ladah to help motorcycle accident victims. Always be aware of who is around you while driving any type of vehicle.

Driver Acting Aggressively

For reasons not fully understood, some people can become very angry and aggressive out on the road. Tailgating, honking the horn and gesturing and yelling are common actions for these types of drivers. If they are engaged with someone else, get out of the area. Drivers who are being targeted should avoid making eye contact or responding to the other driver. Remain focused on the road, refrain from speeding up to get away and do not stop unless it is someplace where help is immediately available.

Wandering Between Lanes

Cars drifting from one lane to the next or gradually getting too close to the shoulder of the road before being jerked quickly back in place are a serious risk. In some instances it could just be distracted driving, but in many others it could be something much more dangerous. This behavior is common with intoxicated drivers, people falling asleep and someone with a medical emergency. Stay back at least a full car length and have the passenger, if available, call 911 to report the driver.

Poorly Maintained Vehicles

Even great drivers can have old vehicles. This is not what people should worry about. Instead be concerned with the ones belching black smoke from the tailpipe and missing mirrors. Duct tape holding any part in place, old plastic covering gaping windows and more dents and dings than the average vehicle has, signify a potentially unsafe driver. Consider that if this is what the visible parts of the vehicle look like, imagine what shape the unseen parts, like their brakes, are in.

Carrying Unsecured Loads

Sometimes drivers can be a danger to others, even when they have full control of their vehicle. Watch out for any vehicle carrying anything. Whether it is strapped to an SUV roof, filling a truck bed or jutting out from a trunk, it can cause damage if it has not been securely strapped in place. Excessive movement of the load or the vehicle leaning to one side due to an uneven load are signs of problems waiting to happen. Get away from the vehicle as soon as possible, as even following one or two car lengths behind could be dangerous.

Responsible drivers have to do what is necessary to protect themselves against others who are less respectful and sensible on the road. Dangerous drivers are a hazard to themselves and everyone else. There is very little the average person can do to get these people off the road. Instead, everyone should do whatever they can to avoid becoming a statistic because of them.

The Most Common Costly Mistakes People Make When Buying A Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/12/23 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

Shopping for a car can be both a stressful and exciting experience. A smart purchase involves the right preparation. Here are blunders people make that can dent a buyer’s wallet.

They don’t consider a used car

A new car will lose much of its value in the first year of ownership. A vehicle goes through a meticulous inspection to qualify for certification. Manufacturers evaluate physical condition, mechanical quality, and mileage. Cars chosen are less likely to need repairs down the road. A new car warranty ends at a certain age or mileage. Conversely, a certified warranty extends coverage beyond an original warranty’s expiration. If you buy a used car, consider the fuel economy, extra safety features, and look for cars with less mileage.

They forget to factor insurance costs

People often lose sight of this necessity in the car-buying process. However, insurance will add to your total cost. Call your insurance agent once you’ve narrowed your choices down to a few different makes and models. You may be able to save money with a particular trim level or engine size. The car size, make, and model can dramatically impact insurance premiums. A more expensive car is likely to render a higher premium. It also pays to comparison-shop auto insurers.

They don’t conduct a thorough test drive

DME Automotive reports that one in six buyers doesn’t perform a test drive. Roughly 30 percent take only a 10-minute stint around the block. However, this doesn’t provide a complete demonstration of the car’s overall behavior. Consider how you intend to use a car and whether a particular vehicle will meet your needs. Make a checklist of "must-have" features, and run through it during the test drive.

They omit doing vehicle research

Many people approach car shopping with vague ideas of what they want and how much they can afford. Using the internet to glean information equips you with bargaining power. You’ll have the buyer’s advantage with an online comparison of makes, models, reviews, road tests, and pricing. If you’re aiming to buy a used car, doing a VIN search is vital. A Vehicle Identification Number is your ticket to obtaining histories regarding title, accidents, leasing, mileage, and maintenance. You can quickly get a car history report on Instavin.

They succumb to sales pressure

It’s common for a salesperson to leave the negotiating table and speak to a manager, supposedly to get you a better deal. Upon returning, you may be told that a price reduction is only possible with an on-the-spot commitment. If you’re subject to this tactic, consider it a warning sign. If you’re confronted with mounting pressure to buy, tell the salesperson you’re uncomfortable and get up to leave. This will save you from being intimated into making a deal that you need to sleep on.

Save money, time, effort and stress by avoiding these car-buying blunders. It’s important to do your own research and know your budget before making a decision on car.

Unsafe Driving Practices: The 5 Most Common Causes of Fatal Car

by Carsurfer Admin on 2015/12/21 in On the Road with Comments Off

Some people tend to overlook the potential dangers of driving a car mostly because they think it will never happen to them. However, it really only takes a moments loss of concentration for something to go horribly wrong when you are behind the wheel. A sudden loss of concentration while on the road can lead to disaster. In fact, the United States has an average of 31,000 car accident fatalities a year. Here are the five most common causes of fatal car crashes.

Driving While Intoxicated

A lot of people, when they are intoxicated think they will be ok if they are just really careful when they get behind the wheel. However, they are very, very wrong. From college students to Hollywood celebrities, intoxicated drivers come from all walks of life. At any given moment, blurred vision and diminished motor skills can cause a drunk driver to lose control. The results are often fatal when an intoxicated person gets behind the wheel. Not only is their life at risk, but they also put everyone else in a dangerous situation.

Distracted Driving

Driving a vehicle requires your total concentration. Even looking down to change the radio station can be a big distraction. Some of the other common distractions include texting, putting on makeup, and looking back to scold a misbehaving child. The best approach is to keep your eyes focused on the road ahead. If you need to perform a task, pull over and park in a secure location. You should also not talk and especially not text on your cell phone while you are driving. Texting and driving is one of the leading causes of deadly car crashes.

Fatigued Driving

After coming home from a late-night shift, it is understandable for a person to be exhausted. Unfortunately, driving while fatigued is among the most dangerous behaviors. A drowsy motorist can quickly fall asleep while cruising along a dark highway. According to Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Cohen Placitella & Roth, P.C., drinking coffee will not always keep you alert. There is no substitute for actual rest.

Bad Weather

Far too many drivers fail to recognize the dangers of traveling in severe weather. Unfortunately, this can lead to a devastating car crash. Because of the slippery pavement, drivers need to remain focused at all times. Speeding in icy weather is an absolute no-no. Statistics show that about 11 percent of all fatal car accidents are caused by poor road conditions. If the weather is too bad, find a safe place to pull over until the weather conditions let up.

Reckless Drivers

There are certain people who do not respect their driving privileges. They simply do not care about the potential consequences. While some drivers are guilty of running red lights, there are others who overlook school bus stops. The bad news is that reckless drivers often go unpunished. If you notice a motorist who is driving aggressively, do not hesitate to call the police.

As you can see, there are a number of dangerous driving habits. To ensure your personal safety and the public’s safety, be sure to pay attention while driving a motor vehicle.