All posts tagged auto buying guide

5 Inside Tips for Anyone Buying a New Car in 2015

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.

On Your Own: Guide to Owning Your First Car

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.

New Car Smell: What to Know Before You Buy

Most people are super excited when they finally get the opportunity to purchase a new car. It’s an opportunity to upgrade and finally get all the features you’ve wanted, but you also have so many factors to think about before you decide. Before you start to budget, here are a few things that you should know before buying a new ride. 

Cost of Insurance

Some car buyers forget to research the cost of insurance. Before signing your name on any paperwork, it is always a good idea to get a quote from your insurance provider. While the insurance for one particular vehicle may cost around $100 a month, the insurance rates for a similar vehicle may be $150 a month. This is a cost difference of $600 a year. Make sure you have all their information before making a final decision.

Long-Term Reliability

The reliability of a vehicle is a very important quality. Although some vehicles will deliver years of trouble-free service, there are others that will need major repair work in the future. Remember, most car warranties last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. After the warranty period ends, you will have to cover the cost of getting your vehicle repaired. When reading through the reviews for a vehicle, be on the lookout for common problem areas. 

Budget

Never go shopping for a car without first developing a budget. If the payments for a vehicle exceed 20 percent of your monthly income, you should seek a more affordable alternative. Some dealerships offer free maintenance for a year, which will help you to save a lot of cash. When outlining your budget, do not forget to factor in the cost of fuel each month. 

VIN Check

If you decide to purchase a pre-owned vehicle, be sure to always check the car’s vehicle identification number. According to Instavin, a VIN check gives you complete access to the vehicle’s history. In the event that the vehicle was involved in a major accident or natural disaster, a free VIN check should reveal the facts. 

Optional Features

Most new vehicles are offered with several optional features. In most instances, the optional equipment will cause the total cost of the vehicle to increase. Luckily, most insurance companies provide discounts for vehicles that are equipped with upgraded safety features. Ask your dealer what is included in the total cost.

Trade-In Value

You may consider trading in your old ride. However, don’t expect the dealership to give you top dollar for your ride. Try placing an ad on Craigslist before attempting to negotiate with the dealership. If the car is not worth much money, you may want to just keep it as a backup vehicle. 

When shopping for a new ride, remember to do your homework before making a final decision. The last thing you want is be stuck with an expensive lemon.