Thursday, August 29, 2013

Advice on Buying Kit Cars

Kit cars are an exciting hobby for the automotive enthusiast. You get to put together a car from the ground up. Further, you have a vehicle that is distinct from almost every other car on the road. Buying a kit car is unlike buying cars from a dealership; you can't just walk on a showroom and go for a test drive.

Kit Car Shows

    Kit car shows are the closest you will get to a kit car showroom. There you can see a number of completed and customized kit cars. You can use the shows as an opportunity to talk to kit car owners and pick their brains about what to look for in one.

Magazines

    Kit car enthusiasts have their own magazines with their own buyer's guides, similar to those who buy mass-produced cars. "Kit Car Magazine" and "Kit Car" (not the same magazine) are two popular magazines that publish buyer's guides every year.

Manufacturer Communication

    When you get a good idea of what model you want, or what manufacturer you wish to buy, call the company. Ask them all the questions you would ask a standard car dealer about a purchase. Finally, set up a time for a test ride, the kit car version of a test drive where you are driven around by a company representative.

Secondhand Kit Cars

    Secondhand kit cars can be an excellent way to get your feet wet. Many buyers purchase their car, do a bit of work on it, and then sell it before moving on to the next hobby. Search kit car websites such as KitCar.com and KitCarLinks.com for secondhand kit cars in great shape that can be had for a fraction of the price of new ones.

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

How to Buy Junk Cars in Bloomington, Indiana

How to Buy Junk Cars in Bloomington, Indiana

Looking for a junk car can be as strenuous as searching for a new car. In Bloomington, Ind., people buy used or junk cars for a variety of reasons and uses, from restoration for the Cruisin' Classics Car Club to destruction in the Monroe County Fair Demolition Derby. You can usually find the junk vehicle that is right for your needs and within your budget in Bloomington. Determining your needs ahead of time will increase your chances of finding exactly the right car and will cut down on time wasted looking at vehicles that don't match your requirements.

Instructions

    1

    Browse the classified advertisements daily in the Bloomington Herald Times newspaper for used vehicles in your price range. The classified ads may also appear on HeraldTimesOnline.com in the "Used Car" section.

    2

    Check the college. Bloomington is home to Indiana University. The IU independent student newspaper, the Indiana Daily Student, or idsnews.com, is a resource for junk cars. Students looking to sell old vehicles from their college days post ads in the IDS, making this a great source to use when searching for junk vehicles. Copies of the IDS are distributed on campus on weekdays throughout the school term.

    3

    Search for junk vehicles on bulletin boards. The Bloomington Library has a community bulletin board available for posting classified ads. Since Bloomington is a college town, many restaurants and coffee shops also have bulletin boards, depending on the time of year and amount of requests. The Indiana University libraries and student centers also maintain community bulletin boards.

    4

    Know what you are looking for in a junk vehicle, including the cost and condition of the vehicle. Also keep in mind what you are buying the junk vehicle for - a junker for a demolition derby will be in different condition than a vehicle that you plan to eventually drive on the street.

    5

    Decide which vehicle is right for you and buy it. Pay with cash, money order or check, and get a receipt for your purchase. An exchange of title work is needed, and the car must be registered to your name.

How to Trade in a Car That Is on a Lease Agreement

How to Trade in a Car That Is on a Lease Agreement

Trading in a car on a lease agreement toward a new or used vehicle is possible if you pay the early termination amount on the lease. For most auto leases, the early termination amount is equivalent to the sum of all remaining payments, plus a lease-end disposition fee. Depending on how many months have passed on your lease agreement, it can be costly to get out of a lease agreement early. If you are unsure of your early termination amount, contact the leasing company listed on your contract.

Instructions

    1

    Call your finance company or log in to the online customer service tools to get the early termination amount. The amount will be steep if you just entered a lease agreement; you must pay all remaining payments to terminate the lease.

    2

    Visit local dealerships. Visit local dealerships or contact them on the Internet to discuss the type of vehicle you want to replace your lease agreement vehicle. When speaking with a salesperson, don't feel obliged to inform him that you have remaining lease payments to be paid.

    3

    Discuss monthly payments. Eventually you will have to discuss monthly payments on your new car when at the dealership. When you find the right car and are ready to discuss the monthly payments necessary to replace your lease agreement car, you should inform the salesperson of the remaining lease payments. They will be able to factor the early termination amount into your monthly payments.

    4

    Get agreements in writing. If the dealership promises to pay the early termination amount on your lease agreement, get it in writing on the buyer's order that details your transaction. Also have the dealership call your leasing company to verify the payoff amount. This ensures the early termination amount is paid in full.

    If you are paying the early termination amount on your own, be sure to contact the leasing company, as a separate mailing address may be used for accounts being paid in full.

    5

    Check with the lender. Several weeks after you pick up your new vehicle, contact the leasing company through which your lease agreement was arranged to verify that the early termination amount was received.

Factors That Influence Depreciation

Factors That Influence Depreciation

Many auto publications such as Auto Trader and Kelleys Blue Book have reported that depreciation is the single biggest expense regarding an automobile during the first five years of ownership. The value of a car vastly deteriorates after being purchased and driven off the car lot. Once the car is "used" instead of "new," the resale value is significantly less than what it had been even weeks earlier. There are multiple factors that contribute to car depreciation, and they can vary from car to car.

Color

    The car color can have a large effect on how much it depreciates in value. Cars in more standard colors such as black, silver or white are more likely to be just as popular in five years as they are today. Off-beat or "trendier" colors such as yellow or pink are less likely to be as highly valued in the future and can be a detriment to the resale value of the vehicle.

Mileage

    The lower the mileage of the car, the more attractive it is to potential buyers. Lower mileage generally means less wear and tear on the engine and the transmission and is a good sign to any new owner that his investment will last a longer period of time. Although the age of the car is important as well, a 10-year-old car with 50,000 miles on it is likely to be easier to sell than a 5-year-old car with 150,000 miles on it. The higher the mileage, the lower the value of the car.

Brand Name

    Car companies have reputations that can either make or break the depreciation value on a car. If a particular make or model is known to have maintenance problems as the car ages, it will depreciate more than a car that has a sturdier reputation regarding repairs. Hondas and Toyotas are known for having greater resale value and suffer from less depreciation because of their traditionally lower maintenance needs, and this keeps them in demand from the buying public.

Initial Cost

    The higher the price of the car when you first buy it, the steeper the depreciation when you drive it off the lot. Depreciation is generally calculated by percentage of initial value so comparatively, a less expensive car will also depreciate less over the years of ownership. Lower-costing cars are usually more popular to a larger number of people as well, which means its value will decrease by a smaller amount because there is a larger consumer demand for it.

Monday, August 26, 2013

The Best Way to Search for a Used Car

The Best Way to Search for a Used Car

The quality of cars has improved significantly in the last few years. Cars are now designed to last longer and sustain a greater amount of wear. However, financing or leasing new cars can still leave a considerable dent in your wallet. Opting for a used car can save you money and get you a car that still runs very well. But purchasing a used vehicle requires research on the brand and the resale value. Use research to pick your car, and then utilize other resources to find the best deal.

Instructions

    1

    Research the reliability of the vehicle. Although recent models are built to last, not all cars are created equal. Some tend to have certain malfunctions that have been addressed with a recall. Use resources such as Cars.com and Edmunds.com to research car reliability, using several factors. Narrow your search down to a few models, based on the best reliability ratings.

    2

    Determine the resale value of the car model you want to buy. Kelley Blue Book provides the resale values of all used vehicles. Each value assumes an "Excellent" condition for the car, which means that the vehicle has been taken care of mechanically and cosmetically during its use. This number is the starting point for negotiating when you finally purchase the car. If the car has exterior damage or requires some mechanical repair, you can reasonably demand that the seller lower the price.

    3

    Visit used car dealerships to find your car. Each dealership will offer you a different price for a car. Speak to salespeople from several dealerships to determine the best price. Most will claim that they cannot go below a certain price, but these are just savvy sales tactics. Most dealerships purchase cars at auction for far below the Kelley Blue Book value and set the supposed "lowest price" above that number considerably.

    4

    Look online for deals. There are websites that have extensive lists of cars for sale from sellers across the country. Dealers make up some of the listings, while others are private listings posted by the owners of the vehicles. Contact as many sellers as possible to get the best deal and acquire the specific car model that you desire. Cars come with many options and upgrades. Conduct thorough research to get exactly what you want.

    5

    Check local newspapers for used car listings. In many instances, these listings are made by people who have little knowledge about the Internet or need to sell their car quickly. Thus, local newspapers provide you with an opportunity to get a great car for a cheap price. Always meet with the seller before agreeing to purchase the vehicle. Ask the owner about the car and how the car was used. Although there is no guarantee that the owner will tell you the truth, you can notice how the owner reacts and perhaps get a feel for whether everything is on the up and up.

    6

    Check the title and the engine. Before purchasing any used car, check to see if it has a clean title. As a general rule, stay away from cars that have been in accidents. Even if they have been repaired, the car will not run as well as it did originally. Have a mechanic perform a full check on the engine, brakes and electrical components. There can be problems with the car that are not immediately evident to the naked eye.

Sunday, August 18, 2013

The Best Strategy to Buy a Used Car Every Two Years

The cost of a new car can be prohibitive for many people. Purchasing a dependable used car can save a lot of money while still providing a reliable vehicle. Some consumers devise a strategy to buy a used car every two years, each of a higher value, to save enough money to eventually purchase a new car.

Budget

    Set a specific price range for your next used car. Save a weekly or monthly amount to reach the goal for the price range set for the next used car.
    Set a selling or trade-in price for your current car. Use the Kelley Bluebook or a website service to estimate the value of your current car. Keep up with and document maintenance so you get the best trade-in amount or sales price for your car.

Shop for the Best Used Car

    When you have reached your financial goal, review cars in the target price range for performance, maintenance issues and personal preferences. After choosing the car you intend to purchase, be sure to check the history of the car for accidents or major maintenance issues. Ask if the used car is still under warranty for any major components of the car.

    Inspect the interior and exterior for damage. Inspect the engine for worn belts, leaking fluids and check the level of fluids such as engine oil, brake fluid and transmission fluid. Ask to have a mechanic inspect the car and provide feedback on the condition of the car. The cost of a mechanic to inspect the vehicle might be a minor expense compared with dealing with a major problem with the car later.

Friday, August 16, 2013

What is Required in the State of Kentucky to Transfer a Title for a Sold Vehicle?

What is Required in the State of Kentucky to Transfer a Title for a Sold Vehicle?

Finding a buyer for your new or used car is only one part of the equation when it comes time to selling your vehicle. Unfortunately, handing over the pink slip is not enough as you also must transfer the title into the new owners name. Before the new owner presses his foot on that gas pedal, there are some significant things you have to do in order to successfully transfer the title of your vehicle over.

Getting Your Vehicle Titled

    According to the website, Kentucky: Mead County Clerk, if you just purchased a new car or if you just moved into the Kentucky area, you are advised to title your vehicle within 15 days. If the owner of the vehicle does not own a residence or is not based in the Bluegrass State, he or she must register the vehicle with the particular county where the vehicle will be used. The registration may be done with the county clerk as well.

Requirements for Car Title Transfer

    The documents that you need to prepare include the Kentucky Certificate of Title are: the application for title and/or registration; the buyer's proof of insurance; and the Social Security number of the parties/persons cited on the title.

    The Kentucky Certificate of Title must be clean as a whistle, which means that it is legally free to be sold and bought. The certificate must be completely detailed, with all assignment portions filled out by both the buyer and the seller. It is important for you to note that the transfer procedure is dependent upon the year that the title was issued.

Application for Transferring a Title

    The application for title and/or registration is listed as VTR form TC96-182. If your title was issued before February 2000, you application must be signed by all registered owners. If you are merely processing the papers and are using the power of attorney for the owner, you must include a copy of the power of attorney document with the application. You also have to notarize the document. Always bring valid identification of all persons involved once you start visiting the county clerks office.

Understanding Buyer Proof of Insurance

    In purchasing a vehicle, youll need the buyer's proof of insurance to get it properly titled. "Title-only transfers" may be done, but only if there is no available insurance for you or if the vehicle in question is non-operational. In cases like this though, the county clerk will ask for you to surrender the license plate.

Title Transfer Costs

    As of July 2010, the Kentucky Title fee will cost you $9. The notary fee, meanwhile, usually comes at a $2 price tag, but the title is delivered through mail by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in about six weeks. If however, you opt for the Kentucky Speed Title, it will cost $25 and the title is immediately mailed to you the following business day. The transfer fee costs $8, while the annual registration fee is $21. For the usage tax, you must pay 6 percent of the vehicle price. Finally, the Title Lien Statement recording fee comes in at $22.

How to Get Tax Credit for Electric Vehicles

How to Get Tax Credit for Electric Vehicles

If you are considering the purchase of an electric vehicle, be sure to take full advantage of federal tax incentives that may be available to buyers of vehicles that run primarily on electricity. Depending on the type of electric vehicle you invest in, it is possible to take advantage of multiple tax credits on a single transaction. In addition to federal tax credits, some states might have their own separate tax credits for electric vehicles. When you consider the savings from using federal and state tax credits along with the potential savings on gas, buying an electric vehicle may become a more viable option.

Instructions

    1

    Ask the electric car dealer to provide you with tax credit eligibility information on the vehicle you are purchasing. This information will help you complete tax forms later on and update you on any recent revisions or additions to existing tax credits.

    2

    Purchase a new electric vehicle. When you have decided on a vehicle, keep in mind that you will get the greatest amount of the current federal tax credit for vehicles with larger battery capacities. As of 2010, any vehicle with over 4 kilowatt-hours of battery capacity is eligible for a $7,500 credit.

    3

    Claim the Electric Drive Vehicle Credit by filling out Form 8936 and attaching it to your federal tax return for the year purchased. The IRS currently lists two electric models that qualify for the full $7,500 credit. This list will expand as more electric vehicles are released.

    4

    Use the Plug-In Electric Vehicle Credit when purchasing smaller, low-speed electric vehicles. These types are often referred to as neighborhood electric vehicles. You can claim up to $2,500 for these vehicles by filling out Form 8834 and attaching it to your federal tax return.

    5

    Use the conversion tax credit. If you convert your hybrid vehicle into a fully electric plug-in vehicle, you are eligible to receive 10 percent of the conversion costs up to $4,000. The conversion credit was set to be phased out by 2012, however.

    6

    Take advantage of state tax credits. If you reside in California, the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project allows to you to get up to $5,000 for light-duty electric vehicles and up to $20,000 for zero-emission commercial vehicles. But not all states are as generous. To find out if your state offers tax credits towards electric vehicles, visit The Car Electric website (see References), which provides current benefits available in various states.

How to Buy a Used Car From a Private Individual

How to Buy a Used Car From a Private Individual

Have you ever wished you could buy a car and did not have to put up with car salesmen and their "haggling?" Say no more, follow these steps and you'll be on the highway in no time.

Instructions

    1

    Contact your credit union and obtain the latest rate information. Speak with someone there about your automobile goals. For example, "I'd like to buy a car from a private individual, and I can afford $150 per month. What kind of interest rate and term of loan does that look like?" Submit a loan application if necessary to determine your spending limit.

    2

    Find your vehicle. Scour Craigslist and the local newspaper classifieds. Go to the website NADA.com and use this to get an approximate value of the vehicle you want. This should be a target amount for sellers to price their vehicle.

    3

    After finding several vehicles that all fit your requirements, call sellers and ask to come take a look at their vehicle. You know you already like the make and model of the vehicle, so go look at the condition. Are the tires worn? Is the engine wet on the underside? Does everything work on the vehicle? Has the vehicle ever been in an accident?

    4

    Be ready to leave without the vehicle. Do not become emotionally attached to the vehicle. If you see evidence of abuse, graciously thank the seller for their time and let them know you're looking at others and will let them know. If you want the vehicle, then tell them you are interested and ask them if they mind if you make an appointment for a mechanic to look the car over. Their response should be no problem. Additionally, tell the seller that if you purchase the car, then you will need to have closing at your credit union. As this could be a couple of days, do they want a deposit to hold the car in good faith; a check for $100 should suffice.

    5

    Call a local dealership, associated with the make of the car -- for example, a Ford garage for a Ford vehicle -- and speak to the service manager. Tell him you need some help as you want to buy a car, but need it checked out by a top-rate mechanic. Schedule the appointment with them and the seller. Coordinate with the seller how the vehicle will get to the dealer.

    6

    Once the vehicle passes inspection, let your seller know that you would like to purchase the vehicle, however, you are on a limited budget and really need to know what their bottom dollar is. They will tell you if there is room for negotiating the price. Make sure this amount is less than the blue book value or be prepared to put a down-payment on the loan. Once the selling price is determined, contact the credit union to let them know what you want to do. They will provide you with a list of information they need from you and the seller and set up closing.

    7

    At closing, the credit union will pay the seller with guaranteed funds and you will sign loan paperwork to pay the credit union back. The bank will provide you with a letter. This enables you to obtain an insurance card and temporary license plate. In the interim, use this letter and your existing insurance card to drive your vehicle legally.

Thursday, August 15, 2013

How to Buy a Fixed Honda Civic

How to Buy a Fixed Honda Civic

Honda Civics consistently rate among the most reliable used cars on websites such as MSN Autos, as well as in Consumer Reports magazine. However, any used car can have mechanical problems. Always ask the seller about anything that has been repaired and get proof if possible.

Instructions

    1

    Get detailed information about the reliability of the Honda Civic you are considering. Reliability of parts and systems can vary depending on the model year. Reliability information is available in Consumer Reports and on online car sites. You can also find out if there has even been a recall by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

    2

    Ask the seller if he has ever had anything repaired on the Honda Civic he is selling. If there were any recalls, ask if the required work was done. Have him provide receipts or other proof for anything he claims has been fixed. If he doesn't not have any paperwork, ask him where the work was done and have him request records from the dealership or repair shop.

    3

    Have your own mechanic inspect the car. You will need to pay for the mechanic's evaluation, but this investment will pay off by ensuring that repairs have been done to the car and by warning you of potential problems.

    4

    Have the seller list the repaired items in the contract if you decide to buy the car. Although laws vary in each state, most areas consider a used car sale to be "as is" unless something else is specified in writing. If the seller claims that something is repaired, make sure that it is written down. Otherwise, you will not be able to enforce a claim if something goes wrong later.

    5

    Get any paperwork for repair warranties. Depending on what the seller had repaired, there may be a warranty provided by the repair shop that can be transferred to you.

How to Get a Donated Car in Berkeley, California

How to Get a Donated Car in Berkeley, California

Owning a car is important for day-to-day activities, but purchasing a quality car is sometimes beyond the budget of many Americans. Fortunately, some charities provide automobiles at low cost or even no cost for families and individuals who qualify. If you live in Berkeley, California, finding out if you qualify for a donated car is easy. If you do qualify, there are several organizations that can help you obtain one.

Instructions

Find a Donated Car in Berkeley

    1

    Find a donated car center near in Berkeley. Your local church is a good place to inquire. Organizations such as 1-800-Charity Cars, America's Car Donation Center, and Cars for Causes operate national networks and can provide cars in or near Berkeley.

    2

    Call the organization or car donation center to find out the requirements to receive a donated car. Make sure you are persistent so they will know that having a car is important to you.

    3

    Fill out the required application and provide other necessary documents to the organization. Having all of your documents in order will increase your chance of receiving a car.

    4

    Once you are approved and have received your car, make sure you complete the title exchange and register your vehicle with the DMV (dmv.ca.gov). Don't forget to purchase insurance for the car.

Mercedes C230 1.8L Factory Wheel Specs

Along with brakes and oil changes, replacing the wheels on your vehicle will make up some of the most substantial costs for car maintenance. Understanding the stock wheel specs for your new Mercedes C230 1.8L vehicle will enable you to properly calculate replacement costs into your total vehicle ownership costs.

Front Tire Size

    The front tires of the C230 are 225/45ZR17-rated tires, which are fairly low-profile performance tires befitting a car of this prestige level. The front tires are slightly more narrow than the rear tires, as the front tires only need to deal with steering on this rear-wheel drive car.

Rear Tire Size

    The rear tires of the C230 are 245/40ZR17-rated tires, which are also low-profile tires but slightly wider than the ones in front. Note that this means you will not have the option to rotate your tires between the front and the rear, decreasing the amount of useful life in the tires as you will not be able to balance wear.

Wheel Sizes

    The front wheel size for the C230 is 17 by 7.5 (in inches). The rear wheel size for the C230 is 17 by 8.5 (also in inches). Note that both the front and rear wheels are aluminum, a lighter-weight metal that decreases curb weight and increases performance.

How to Order a New Car

If you cannot find the perfect car on dealer's lot, you have the option of ordering a new car from the dealership. You can get the options, color combination and pricing you want for the price you want. It's a simple process but it will take time, up to 12 weeks, depending on the manufacturer.

Instructions

How to Order your perfect New Car

    1

    Visit your local dealership and go over all colors and options available on the model you want. Determine if certain options you like are stand-alone options or if they only come in a package. You might have to get a full package to get just one option that you really want. Take Xenon Headlights as an example on a 2010 Audi A4. They are only available if you buy the Premium Plus package. This package alone will add $4,000 to the price of the car, so make sure you really want those fancy lights or another option if you buy another make of vehicle.

    2

    Find out the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and Invoice pricing of the vehicle you want to order. Just because you are ordering your new car does not mean that you cannot negotiate on the vehicle's selling price.

    3

    Check for a Lease Protection Plan or Rate Protection Plan from the dealer if you are planning on leasing or financing your new car. Some banks will allow you to use their current specials even though you are ordering a car for a future date.

    4

    Sit back and wait for your new car to arrive. Again, it can take up to 12 weeks for you car to be built and sent from the factory depending on the make and model you order. Try to take steps to make sure that you have a mode of transportation while you are waiting for your new car to arrive.

    5

    Be ready to pick up your new car when it arrives. If you are out of town or cannot afford to pay for the vehicle when it arrives, you might lose your order. The dealership has no obligation to hold the vehicle for you.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Chevy Astro Brake Problems

Chevy Astro Brake Problems

The Chevrolet Astro--a van produced by General Motors from 1985 to 2005--was beset by a host of problems. Chief among these involves its anti-lock braking system.

BPMV Assembly

    The most common and severe brake problem that affects the Chevy Astro is failure of the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV), which may cause the pedal to drop. This problem is most common with the 1991 to 1993 Astros although they are known to occur in many of the Astros produced throughout the 1990s.

Wheel Sensors

    Faulty wheel sensors are also common with most model-year entries of the Astro's last decade of production (1995 to 2005). However, in some cases, the problem can be fixed without replacing the sensors by resetting them.

Cost

    As of September 2010, the cost to repair the BPMV assembly is approximately $800 for parts and $130 for labor. If the wheel sensors need to be replaced, this can range from $75 to $102 in parts, depending on whether the van has two-wheel or four-wheel drive; the labor cost is estimated at $80.

Monday, August 12, 2013

How to Buy a One Owner Used Car

Buying a car that has only had one previous owner can be a difficult task, but with the right research and information a good deal can be found. It is important to get as much information about a car's repair and owner history before purchasing a used automobile. While purchasing a used car may save money, it can be a more involved and drawn-out process than buying a new car from a dealership.

Instructions

Determining the Right Car

    1

    Determine your budget limitations. If a loan is needed, find out exactly how much money you can be approved for.

    2

    Determine the primary use for the automobile, whether it be for short or long-distance commuting, family travel, or business trips.

    3

    Decide how important appearance and exterior cosmetics are to your purchasing tastes.

Find Used Automobiles

    4

    Search online at sites like craigslist.org and ebay.com. Be sure to only look in areas close to your home so that a personal inspection can be done.

    5

    Look in your local newspaper in the classifieds section for used automobiles.

    6

    Look in the local newspaper for used car dealerships.

Inquire

    7

    Call the private owner or dealership and ask if the car is still available for purchase.

    8

    Ask what the mileage is of the car and general history of its use, including number of previous owners.

    9

    Ask what and when major repairs have been done to the automobile.

    10

    Ask if any major or minor repairs are needed on the car now.

Perform a Personal Inspection

    11

    Travel to the owner's home or dealership business during regular business hours.

    12

    Inspect the interior and exterior of the car and look for signs of damage, rust, paint cracks, or leaks.

    13

    Ask the car owner to show you records of the car's previous owners.

    14

    Ask to take the car for a test drive with the owner in the automobile. If the owner refuses a test drive, politely tell them that a purchase would require a test drive.

    15

    Listen for any clicks or squeaking sounds that may indicate an engine or brake problem.

    16

    If possible, have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle prior to purchase.

Purchase

    17

    Ask for preferred method of payment.

    18

    If paying by cash, be sure to ask for a receipt of purchase.

    19

    If dealing with a dealership, inquire about any purchase warranties or guarantees.

Saturday, August 10, 2013

How to Obtain a Change of Ownership Form for a Car

How to Obtain a Change of Ownership Form for a Car

Vehicle ownership is tracked for safety and tax purposes by each state's Department of Motor Vehicles. The change of ownership form (sometimes referred to as the "title transfer application" or "transfer of ownership application" ) is the clerical mechanism that documents your financial responsibility for the vehicle. The only fees required are normal registration fees and taxes. No third party is required.

Instructions

    1

    Call your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and ask if a notary signature, smog emisions data or any other special details are required to complete a transfer of ownership application in your state. Also ask if it is possible to download the form in advance via the Internet.

    2

    Collect the bill of sale and the orginal title of ownership from the previous owner. Be sure that the previous owner has signed the title over to you using the form provided on the back of the title. If possible, download the transfer of ownership form from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and fill in the necessary information before visiting the DMV offices.

    3

    Visit the DMV, taking with you the bill of sale, the original title of ownership and your driver's license. If the transfer of ownership form was not available online, request and complete the transfer of ownership form at the DMV.

    4

    Go to your city or town tax collector's office to complete the final registration process and pay required excise taxes.

Friday, August 9, 2013

Facts on the 2008 Chevy Corvette

Debuting in the 1950s, the Chevrolet Corvette--a vehicle produced and sold by General Motors' Chevrolet brand--is one of America's oldest sports cars. The 2008 Chevy Corvette was one of the model-year entries of the car's sixth generation of production, with coupe and convertible body styles that were offered in a variety of trims.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

    The coupe LT1, LT2, LT3 and LT4 trims of the 2008 Chevy Corvette, as well as the convertible LT2, LT3 and LT4 trims, had a 6.2-liter 430-horsepower V-8 engine. The top-of-the-line Z06 LZ1 and Z06 LZ2 trims had a 7.0-liter, 505-horsepower V-8 engine. Choice of transmission was between a manual and an automatic, both six-speed gearboxes with overdrive. Depending on trim as well as type of engine and transmission, the 2008 Chevy Corvette got a fuel economy of 15 to 16 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 to 26 mpg for highway driving.

Safety Features

    The 2008 Chevy Corvette came equipped with power door locks, vehicle anti-theft and stability control systems, anti-lock braking, traction control, driver and passenger airbags, and keyless entry. All trims, except the coupe LT1 and Z06 LZ1, also had front side airbags, and only the convertible LT2, LT3 and LT4 had trunk anti-trap devices.

Interior Features

    The standard interior features of the 2008 Chevy Corvette included air conditioning, power windows, leather steering wheel, cruise control, tire-inflation and pressure-monitoring system and car stereo system. The vehicle also had leather seats--including a power-adjustable one for the driver--that came in Cashmere, Ebony, Red or Titanium Gray. The LT3, LT4, Z06 LZ2 and Z06 LZ3 trims also had steering wheel-mounted controls, and optional navigation systems and front heated seats.

Exterior Features

    The 2008 Chevy Corvette had 18-inch alloy or chrome wheels. Automatic daytime running lamps, fog lights and heated power side mirrors were some of the standard exterior features of the vehicle. Only the Z06 trims had standard rear spoilers.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 2008 Chevy Corvette ranged from $46,100 for the Coupe LT1 to $74,320 for the Z06 LZ2. As of 2010, a 2008 Corvette's value is in the $36,000 to $50,000 price range, according to automotive valuation by Kelley Blue Book.

List of Used Cars With High MPG

List of Used Cars With High MPG

Fuel economy is one of the most important factors in purchasing a car and, as a result, many standard models have been redesign over the years as new technology has hit the market. Up until 2007, few hybrid cars were available. However, since then several models have been developed, and there is now an extensive market for used hybrid vehicles and vehicles designed with fuel efficiency in mind.

2001-2007 Honda Insight

    Between the years of 2001 and 2007, the Honda Insight was built with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine that got about 45 mpg in the city and 49 mpg on the highway. The Insight is a hybrid that has a permanent-magnet electric motor and, according to "Consumer Reports," the 2000 Honda Insight with the manual transmission is the best used car to purchase for fuel economy.

2008 MINI Cooper

    The 2008 MINI Coopers is available as a convertible or a hatchback. The convertible has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that gets approximately 28 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The hatchback has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that gets 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The vehicle has a standard six-speed transmission, anti-lock brakes, side-set airbags, 16-inch alloy wheels and cruise control. Although the MINI Cooper is not a hybrid, it achieves comparable fuel efficiency.

2008 Smart fortwo

    This is a small two-door coupe with a standard 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine. It gets about 33 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the open highway. Manual transmissions are standard with the fortwo. The car also comes with standard airbags and anti-lock brakes.

2008 Honda Civic Hybrid

    The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid is a four door sedan with a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that achieves about 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. The car also comes with standard airbags and anti-lock brakes.

2007-2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid

    The Altima was completely redesigned in 2007 to have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine containing an electric motor that gets about 35 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The car also came with standard anti-lock brakes.

2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid

    The Mazda Tribute has a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine built with an electric motor hybrid power train that is reported to achieve 34 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. One downside to the car is that no stability control is available for it. According to the Edmunds car buying guide's editors, little other than some exterior changes separate the Mazda Tribute Hybrid from the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid and the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

How to Buy a Used Car in Ireland

How to Buy a Used Car in Ireland

Buying a used car in Ireland means going to a dealer or a private seller. There are several websites that act as intermediaries between dealerships, private sellers and buyers that allow potential buyers to view the car and its specifications online.

Dealerships

    Dealerships tend to be more expensive than private sellers because they generally check the car out and give it a thorough clean and spruce-up before selling it. Dealers are open to negotiation on price.

Private Sellers

    Private sellers also advertise on car websites and can be cheaper than dealers. The risks are that private sellers may be withholding information about the car that an honest dealer would not. You must make an appointment with the seller to come see the car at their convenience and for safety's sake, you should inform somebody where you are going. Private sellers are also open to haggling.

Documentation

    Before buying a used car, you should check to see the seller has the Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) for cars first registered after 2004 or the Vehicle Licensing Certificate (VLC) for older cars.

    For cars registered before 1993, the seller should complete a Change of Ownership Form from the Motor Tax Office, which should be brought to the Motor Tax Office along with the vehicle's Logbook.

    For cars registered in 1993 or later, the seller should send the VLC or VRC with your details filled in to the Motor Tax Office who will then send on the updated certificate to you.

    Before buying a car, you should also check the National Car Test (NCT) cert expiry date. Cars over four years old must pass this test to be driven on the road.

Car Lease Factors

Instead of buying a new car, one option is to lease instead. Often an auto lease will require a smaller down payment and have lower monthly payments than financing the purchase of the same new vehicle. Before jumping on that lease to get the lower payments the buyer should consider several factors that may affect her financially.

Personal Credit

    To lease a car you must have good personal credit. If you have had several car loans and always paid them on time, qualifying for a lease should be no problem. A limited personal credit history or a problem with late or missed payments will probably rule out approval for a car lease.

Mileage Limitation

    Lease contracts are written with annual mileage limits of 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year. If the car is turned in at the end of the lease with high mileage, the excess mileage charges can be very high; up to 20 cents per mile. If a car was 10,000 miles over the contract limit when the car is turned in, the lessor would be required to write a check for up to $2,000. Leases can be initially set up with more mileage than the standard contract. If you know you will need more miles, find out the cost and have it included in the monthly payments.

Wear and Tear

    Another charge that you can incur at the end of a car lease is an excess wear and tear charge. The leasing company expects a leased car to be returned in good condition, free of damage and only a normal level of wear. Different leasing companies are more or less strict on wear and tear charges. If you have a leased car, minor dings and dents should be repaired or you may be facing another large bill from the leasing company at lease termination.

Insurance

    Leasing a car requires higher liability insurance coverage than the usual state minimums. The total liability coverage will be between $300,000 and $1,000,000, depending on the leasing company. The maximum comprehensive and collision deductible is $500. A car lease should also be covered by gap insurance. Gap insurance pays off the lease balance if the car is totaled. Some lease contracts include gap insurance. Others do not and the car dealership will sell it separately. Do not leave the dealership with your new leased car without gap insurance coverage.

Car Purchase Habits

    Leasing cars is great for people who like to get a new car every two to three years. If the lessor stays under the mileage and takes care of the car, when the lease is up he can just turn in the car and lease another brand new car. Leases are not for those who lease just to get the low payment and then do not abide by the restrictions of the contract. It can be extremely expensive to get out of a lease early or pay excess mileage and wear and tear at the end of the contract or try to refinance the residual and keep the car.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

2008 & 2009 Ford Fusion SE Features

The 2008 and 2009 Ford Fusion SE models are mid-trim-level, mid-size sedans sold by Ford. The carmaker sat the Fusion on a Mazda6 frame and placed the auto between the compact Focus and the full-size Taurus. Ford did not offer a hybrid version for the 2008 and 2009 model years. The Fusion replaced the Taurus, which in turn was elevated to a full-size model and replaced the Ford Five Hundred.

Under the Hood

    The 2008 and 2009 Fusion SE engines are identical. The base engine is a 160-horsepower, 2.3-liter, in-line four-cylinder complemented by a six-speed automatic transmission or five-speed manual. It can achieve 20 mpg in city driving and 29 on the open road. The 221-horsepower V-6 provides considerably more power, especially when passing or tackling steep inclines. It can hit 60 mph from a dead stop in about 8 seconds. Its fuel efficiency is above average for a V-6 at 17/25 mpg.

SE Features

    Ford offered the 2008 and 2009 Fusion in the base S trim, the SE and top-level SEL. The four-cylinder SE for the 2008 and 2009 model years sold for under $19,000 and featured a power driver's seat adjustable in six positions, a folding front passenger seat, audio and speed controls on the steering wheel, fog lamps, audio system with CD/MP3 player and six-disc changer and 16-inch aluminum wheels. Also standard on the SE was a luxury trim carbon fiber look on the dashboard. The price of the SE climbed to nearly $21,500 when equipped with the V-6 and reached more than $23,000 with the V-6 and all-wheel drive option. For an extra $900 buyers could purchase the Sport Appearance Package that consisted of sport-tuned suspension, blackout grille, rear-deck lip spoiler, dual chrome exhaust tips, red trim throughout the interior and brushed aluminum assembly around the radio. The package included 18-inch aluminum wheels with low-profile tires.

Size

    The 2008 and 2009 Fusion SEs' wheelbase is 107.4 inches with a bumper-to-bumper length of 190.2 inches and a weight of 3,325 lb. The luggage capacity with all seats upright is 15.8 cubic feet. The gasoline tank holds 17.5 gallons.

Safety

    All models received driver and front-passenger airbags, front-side airbags, side-curtain airbags, child-seat anchors and safety locks on the rear doors. All 2008 and 2009 Fusion SEs included all-wheel, anti-lock braking (ABS), all-wheel disc brakes with the front discs ventilated, and optional traction control. For an extra $300, buyers received a rear obstacle detection system.

How to Find Out How Much a Dealer Pays for a Car

How to Find Out How Much a Dealer Pays for a Car

Many new car buyers believe they are getting a great deal if they buy an auto at the invoice price. They mistakenly think that the invoice price represents what the dealership pays the manufacturer for the car. In reality, the invoice is only one piece of the information you need to tally the dealer's true cost. You must also know about holdbacks and special incentives, both of which can drastically reduce what the dealer actually pays.

Instructions

    1

    Calculate the current invoice price of the car by looking it up on at least two automotive research websites. Truecar.com, Edmunds.com and KBB.com are all solid research websites. If two of the sites come up with a different invoice total for the same vehicle with the same options, there may have been a price increase in the last year that one of the websites hasn't picked up yet. Use a third site to double check the figures.

    2

    Calculate the holdback amount, which Edmunds.com explains will be a percentage of either the invoice cost or the manufacturers suggested retail price, and subtract it from the invoice total. The holdback is money passed on by the manufacturer to the dealership, which adds additional profit to the sale. This amount differs among different automakers but you can find holdback percentages on the car research sites.

    3

    Subtract all current factory to dealership incentives from your current total. These incentives are similar to rebates, but they are not publicly advertised and go directly to the dealership instead of being given to consumers. They change frequently, according to Autoadvice.com, but the most recent incentives for each make and model should show up on research sites.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

The Specifications of a 2008 Buick Lucerne Super

The Lucerne, a full-sized sedan, became part of the vehicle line-up of General Motors' Buick brand when it replaced the LeSabre for the 2006 model year. The 2008 Buick Lucerne was the third model-year of production. There were four trim levels available: the CX, CXL, CXS and the Super--which coincidentally was introduced for 2008.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

    The 2008 Buick Lucerne Super had a 4.6-liter, 292-horsepower V-8 engine with 288 foot-pounds of torque. The transmission was a four-speed automatic overdrive, and it had a gas tank capacity of 18 1/2 gallons. The 2008 Lucerne Super fuel economy was rated at 15 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 22 mpg for highway driving.

Safety Features

    Standard safety features of the 2008 Buick Lucerne Super included power/child-safety door locks, vehicle anti-theft and stability-control systems, anti-lock braking, electronic brake assistance, trunk anti-trap device, keyless entry, remote ignition, traction control, and driver and passenger front side and side head-curtain airbags. The 2008 Lucerne Super also had load leveling, which is an automatic suspension system that adjusts front and rear ride heights to make up for changes in the vehicle's axle load.

Interior Features

    Interior features of the 2008 Buick Lucerne Super included power windows, air conditioning, heated leather steering wheel with mounted controls, cruise control, wood trim, tire-inflation and pressure-monitoring system, trip computer, leather upholstery, power-adjustable driver and passenger seats and stereo with AM/FM/CD player. Options included navigation systems, sunroofs and 6-CD changers in place of the single-CD players.

Exterior Features

    The 2008 Buick Lucerne Super had 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic daytime running lights, fog lights, heated power side mirrors and rain-sensing interval wipers. Available colors included Dark Mocha Metallic, Goldmist Metallic, Sharkskin and White Diamond.

Price

    The Super is the most expensive of the 2008 Buick Lucerne's trims. The original manufacturer's suggested retail price was $38,980. As of 2010, a 2008 Lucerne Super's value is in the $27,000 to $29,000 range, according to Kelley Blue Book.