Tips on Getting the Best Deal on a New Car

Buying a new car is an exciting experience. With the latest safety features and comfort options available in new cars, driving off the dealer's lot with a new car can be invigorating and refreshing. It's even better knowing that you got a great deal on a new car without breaking your budget. Fortunately, there are several ways to negotiate the best deal on a new car so everybody wins.

Know the Car You Want

Before you even start talking with a car sales representative, decide on the type of car you want to buy. Are you looking for something practical such as a mid-sized sedan or do you want something larger such as a full-sized SUV? Is this going to be a vehicle you drive to work every day or will you just drive it on weekend trips? In addition to your new car's purpose, considered the price range along with the price of insurance, fuel and maintenance.

Once you have a list of possibilities, compare the cars on your list against each other. Websites such as IntelliChoice will help you compare safety features, specifications and prices of various models so you can see which cars on your list are the best deals.

Finally, take the cars you are considering for a test drive. Make it clear to the sales representative that you have no intention of buying a car just yet and that you are just testing a few vehicles out before making a final decision. The salesperson may try to make a sale, but resist the pressure during this phase.

Negotiate Online or Over the Phone

Negotiating over the phone or through email is an ideal way to get leverage in a car purchase. In addition to saving time, it is also easier to walk away from the deal if you are not satisfied with the terms. After making your final decision, call area dealers on the phone or email them to find out if they have your vehicle in stock. If they do not have one in stock, ask if they can get one.

After determining the availability of the vehicle, negotiate a price. If the first dealer you contact gives you one price, use that as negotiating leverage with the dealers you call after that. Discuss the total price of the car before discussing payments, financing or anything else.

Once you have settled on a price, discuss the financing arrangements. It is important to keep these two discussions separate because a salesperson may offer lower monthly payments for a longer term, which would increase the total price of the car. However, once the price has been determined, the financing arrangements are based on that price.

Finally, discuss your trade-in if you have one. By keeping this last and separate, you are more likely to get a higher price for it. If the salesperson asks about your trade-in before discussing the price of the new car, simply say you will discuss that in due time.

Be Reasonable

A car dealer is more likely to work with you if you are a reasonable customer. If you are trying to get something for nothing and offering thousands of dollars less than the new car is worth, the dealer may get mad and become unwilling to work with you. The dealers and sales representatives have to make a profit so keep that in mind when negotiating a deal on a new car.

Tips on Bargaining With a Car Salesman

Completing research before heading to buy a car will arm you with the knowledge you need to negotiate with a car salesman. Five negotiating tactics will help you get the best possible price when buying a new or used vehicle.

Call Ahead

Calling the dealership before going will allow you to remove the emotion from the car buying experience, according to moneyunder30.com. If you ask for the best price of the car on the phone, this eliminates the dealer's ability to see your facial expression. A phone quote places the dealer at an emotional disadvantage. Make sure the dealer does not talk you into coming to the dealership before providing a quote.

Avoid Talking Too Much

The dealer may try to get a lot of information about you before offering you a price, according to negotiationtraining.com. Avoid telling the dealer how much you have to spend or how much you want a particular car. If the dealer asks you a question that you do not want to answer, you are not required to respond.

Negotiate Before Adding Incentives

Negotiate the final price with the dealer before talking about added incentives, according to marketwatch.com. Incentives such as a manufacturers coupon and car trade-in should add to the final negotiated price. You will obtain the lowest possible price through adding incentives at the end of the negotiation.

Offer a Very Low Price

Initially offer the dealer half the price of the vehicle. While you may not always get this price, offering an initial low price provides a starting point to negotiate up if necessary. Do not let your fears or emotions get involved when negotiating a price. Know your highest price and do not let the dealer negotiate higher than that.

Walk Away

If you have a price in mind, offer the price to the dealer. If the dealer is not willing to negotiate to this price, walk away. Give the dealer your card and tell him that if he changes his mind he should give you a call. This will let the dealer know that you are serious, and many times he will call you with a new offer.

How to Decode a Chevrolet VIN

The vehicle identification number identifies each car uniquely as an anti-theft measure and provides information about the features of the vehicle, including engine type, ethanol compatibility and safety features. Since the 1980s, the number has been 17 digits long. You can find your Chevys VIN on the dash by looking through the windshield.

Instructions

1

Identify the country of manufacture for your Chevy with the first digit, as follows:
1 and 5-U.S.
2-Canada
3-Mexico
K-South Korea

2

Identify the car as a Chevy with digits 1 through 3 if it starts with one of these combinations: 1G1, 2G1, 3G1 or KL1.

3

Identify the car model with digits 4 and 5. Chevy has 30 such codes for 2008 alone. (See References.) Digit 4 breaks down as follows for 2008 models:
A-Cobalt
J-Optra
T-Aveo
W-Impala
Y-Corvette
Z-Malibu

4

Identify the body style with digit 6. The numerals 1 through 3 denote 2-doors. The numerals 5 through 9 denote 4-doors.

5

Identify the restraint method with digit 7. Numerals 1 through 8 for model year 2008 have front air bags. Numerals 2, 3, 6 and 7 have side air bags. Numerals 2 through 8 have active seatbelts.

6

Identify the engine type with digit 8. GM cars go through the whole alphabet and 10 numerical digits to describe the different engine variations. For 2008 models, the breakdown for cylinder count is as follows:
L4-B, F, M, X, Z, 1, 5, 6, 8
V6-J, K, L, N, T, V, 1, 8
V8-A, C, D, E, W, Y, 9
Note that 1 could refer to an L4 or a V6.

7

Dont concern yourself with digit 9. It is used only internally by GM.

8

Identify the model year with digit 10.
A = 1980, B = 1981 and so on. I, O, Q, U and Z arent used; therefore, Y = 2000 and 1 = 2001. Then the alphabet starts all over again, with 9 = 2009 and A = 2010.

9

Identify the factorys city with digit 11. GM has 11 such cities for its 2008 cars. See References for the list.

10

Identify the car uniquely by the VIN's last six digits. This is useful for identifying cars that have a recorded history of major damage and for identifying a stolen car.

Mini Cooper 2010 Pricing Specifications

As it name implies, the Mini Cooper is a line of automobiles small in stature but great in gas mileage. The British Motor Company began to manufacture them in the early 1960s as a sort of English version of the Volkswagen Beetle -- a little budget car for the masses. The current line of Mini Coopers consists of nine models, each with a different base price as of November 2010.

Base Hatchback

The MC base hatchback has an MSRP (Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price) of $18,800. Its fuel economy rating rating is 28/37 (City/Highway). It has a 1.6-liter, 118 horsepower, I4 engine with four valves.

Base Convertible

The MC base convertible is almost identical to the hatchback except in MSRP ($24,250) and a slightly inferior fuel economy rating of 28/36 (City/Highway). The car's interior dimensions are also just a tad smaller at 74 cubic feet (versus 76 for the base hatchback).

Clubman Hatchback

The MC Clubman Hatchback is a MINI station wagon with an MSRP of $20,450. Its specs are virtually identical to those of the base hatchback aside from greater room in the interior (80 cubic feet). The fuel tank is also larger at 13.2 gallons (compared with the 10.6 gallon size of the base hatchback and convertible).

Clubman S Hatchback

The Clubman S Hatchback carries an MSRP price tag of $24,050 and has a more powerful 172 hp motor and a slightly less efficient fuel economy of 26/34.

John Cooper Works Clubman Hatchback

This model sells for a substantially higher MSRP of $31,000 with a 208 hp engine. Fuel economy is 25/33.

John Cooper Works Convertible Hatchback

The JCW convertible is virtually identical to the hatchback besides the removable top and an MSRP of $34,000.

John Cooper Works Hatchback

This model has an MSRP of $28,800. Aside from a slightly smaller amount of elbow room (76 cubic feet vs. 80 cu.ft.), the JCW Hatchback is virtually identical to the JCW Clubman Hatchback.

S Convertible & Hatchback

The S Convertible has an MRSP of $27,150, a 172 hp engine and a fuel economy of 26/34. The S Hatchback has an MSRP of $22,300 and is otherwise identical to the S convertible besides the lack of a removable top.

Additional Costs

An MSRP is not the final price of the vehicle. For instance, all new Mini Coopers are subject to a $700 delivery fee. Sales taxes also will apply depending on where you buy the car. Fortunately, dealers often offer factory incentives and other discounts, especially during difficult economic times. Additionally, there are literally dozens of different options to be added to your car such as an alarm system ($500) or a rear fog lamp ($100). To simplify matters, Mini sells packages of bundled features such as a cold weather package ($500) with items like heated seats, a convenience package ($1,250), and, for the luxuriously inclined, a premium package ($1,750) with options like a sunroof and Harman/Kardon audio system.

How to Buy a Car From a Rental Company

Rental cars have a reputation for being abused, which makes some people wary of buying one. However, the reputation is exaggerated, and rental car sales are in fact a legitimate and growing business. Rental cars do have abusive drivers on occasion, but they are well-maintained by the rental company and usually retired after less than two years of service. They are then inspected before being offered for sale. They also come with pretty good warranties, so far as used-car warranties go. If you're in the market for a new car, consider buying a rental.

Instructions

1

Learn what's out there. Virtually every major car rental company has a website specifically for car sales. Browse these websites to find out about suitable cars in your area.

2

Review the car's history. Rental car companies will usually be up-front about providing documents showing damage repairs, mechanical repairs and routine maintenance.

3

Obtain an independent vehicle history report from an agency like Carfax, if the rental car company does not provide this information itself.

4

Look the car over thoroughly in person.

5

Have the car thoroughly inspected by an independent mechanic whom you trust. This step will cost you, but it is well worth it. A couple hundred dollars now may save you thousands down the road.

6

Arrange to keep the car for a day or two. Drive it during this time to get a feel for the car.

7

Be prepared to walk away from the deal if you are not satisfied, despite the money you have already spent. If you're satisfied and the price is agreeable, buy the car.

8

Consider whether to buy an extended warranty from the rental car company. Typically the car will come with a basic warranty, but extended warranties can be worthwhile depending on what you're buying and what your driving needs are.

2009 Kawasaki 250R Specifications

According to the Total Motorcycle website, the Kawasaki Ninja 250R is "lightweight and agile...and is a dominating force in the entry-level sportbike category." They continue to write that one of its strengths is its appeal to various riders, both beginners and veterans. Its fuel efficiency and low emissions also make the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R an eco-friendly bike.

Engine

The 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R comes with a four-stroke, liquid-cooled DOHC parallel twin engine with 249cc rpm. It has two cylinders and eight valves. The Ninja 250R requires regular gas, and has a manual six-speed transmission. The fuel capacity is 4.8 gallons. According to Total Motorcycle's website, the 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R has excellent fuel economy.

Design

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R has an instrument panel that includes analog odometer, tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, trip meter and warning lights that are large and easy to read. The bike comes with dual-lamp headlights, two helmet holders below the rear seat, storage under the seat and two hooks under the tail of the bike. The fairing and windscreen protect the rider from the elements. This bike comes in Metallic Diablo Black, Candy Thunder Blue, Sunbeam Red and a two-tone option: Special Edition Lime Green and Metallic Diablo Black.

Frame

This bike has a diamond style steel frame, which gives it stability whether you're riding fast or slow. The swingarm bracket gives the frame a rigidity that creates an ideal chassis stiffness balance. The seat is designed to sit forward to make for a more natural ride, and the handlebars are wide and raised.

Wheels & Suspension

The 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R features 17-inch wheels. It has 37 mm telescopic front fork suspension and UNI-TRAK rear suspension, making for a stable, smooth ride, giving you more control.

Exhaust System

The 2009 Ninja 250R comes with a 2-into-1 exhaust system. It has a slightly upswept silencer that allows for the engine to be quiet, yet remain powerful. Dual catalyzers make this bike eco-friendly, meeting strict emissions standards.

Warranty

Kawasaki's 2009 Ninja 250R was sold with a 12-month warranty, with an option to buy a Good Times Protection Plan, lasting 12, 24, 36 or 48 months.

How to Haggle With Car Dealers

Those in search of a vehicle at a reasonable price can fall prey to a variety of car dealer techniques that make a deal appear to be a good one, which in reality is not. To get a good price on a car, haggling skills are important. But resolve, confidence and extensive research beforehand are essential.

Instructions

1

Formulate your offer before you even step into a dealership. Use multiple sources to verify the cost to the dealer of the car model you are interested in. Add to this a roughly five percent profit to reach a number that is reasonable for a dealer and affordable for you.

2

Set a half-hour time limit for your car buying negotiations when you enter the dealership. Many car salespeople are on commission based on the price they sell a car for; if they won't accept your offer in about half an hour, they'll likely spend the next couple of hours trying to convince you to pay more. Inform the salesperson that they have exactly half an hour to close a deal. Walk away once that time is up.

3

Enter into negotiations with all of your research materials in hand. Not only will all of your research aid you in making decisions on the fly, it will also show a salesperson that you did your homework. That makes it less likely they will attempt to scam you.

4

Haggle with a partner in tow. A second person at the negotiations can help you question claims made by a dealer. A partner can also be invaluable later on, if the dealer tries to renege on verbal agreements made. If an issue later goes to court, it is not simply your word against the dealer's.

5

Look out for car dealer lines. These often include panicking a customer by telling them the car won't be available later, or saying that a deal is good for one day only. These are almost always untrue and being aware of them can help you avoid being swayed by these spurious arguments.

Specifications for a 1998 Chevy Tracker

When the Geo brand of vehicles was discontinued, General Motors stamped its mini SUV with the Chevrolet nameplate in 1998 and sold the vehicle in the United States until 2004. The debut model-year entry of such a decision--the 1998 Chevrolet Tracker--came in two- and four-door body styles, each with two-wheel (2WD) and four-wheel (4WD) drivetrain configurations.

Engine and Transmission

The 1998 Chevrolet Tracker came with a 1.6-liter 95-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine with 99 foot-pounds of torque. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual overdrive. However, the two-door vehicles were given a choice to come equipped with a three-speed automatic, while the four-door vehicles were provided the option of getting a four-speed automatic gearbox.

Fuel Economy

The 1998 Chevrolet Tracker came with a 11-gallon gas tank. Fuel economy largely depended on the type of transmission the vehicle had. The SUVs with the three-speed automatic got 23 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving. Those with the four-speed automatic got 22/26 mpg, and those with the manual transmission got 23/26 mpg.

Interior

Driver and passenger airbags, power steering, bucket seats and A/C system were some of the standard interior features of the 1998 Chevy Tracker. The four-door trackers also had child safety door locks. With seating large enough for four people and the trims sharing the same amount of front leg room, the two-door vehicles had a little more front shoulder room and front hip room than the four-door vehicles. On the other hand, the four-door trims had a little more rear head room, rear leg room, rear shoulder room and rear hip room than the two-door trims.

Exterior

The 1998 Chevrolet Tracker had daytime running lights, towing package, interval wipers, front and rear black bumpers, tinted glass, and 15-inch alloy wheels. The four-door vehicles had additional rear window defoggers, and were a little bigger in exterior dimension than their two-door counterparts. Also, they had a turning diameter of around 35 inches, compared to the two-door Tracker's 32 inches, and the curb weight was 2,747 lbs. in comparison to the two-door's 2,339 lbs.

Price

The original manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the 1998 Chevy Tracker were $13,655 for the two-door 2WD, $14,655 for the two-door 4WD, $14,860 for the four-door 2WD, and $15,605 for the four-door 4WD. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price value range of the vehicle at around $2,500 to $3,600.

The Specifications of a 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS

The 1996 model-year entry of the Eclipse RS is one of the five coupe trims of the sports vehicle from Mitsubishi: placed above the basic Base, but below the GS, GS-T and GSX. It was released during the second generation of the Mitsubishi Eclipse's production cycle, which was considered better than the first cycle due to its longer and sleeker design.

Engines, Transmission and Fuel Economy

The 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS has a 2.0-liter, 140-horsepower four-cylinder engine, with 133 feet-pounds of torque. A five-speed manual overdrive is standard on the vehicle, although a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive was made optional. With a gas tank capacity of 16.90 gallons, drivers of the 1996 Eclipse RS can expect a fuel economy of 22/32 mpg with a manual gearbox and 20/30 mpg with an automatic transmission.

Safety Features

Driver and passenger airbags are standard in the 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS. Other than that, the vehicle is rather bare on safety amenities, as there is an absence of features such as anti-lock braking system, power locks and traction control.

Interior Features

With a cabin big enough to seat up to four people, the 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS has air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering and a stereo system. Do not expect to find one with other popular stock features such as CD players, folding seats or power windows and sunroofs.

Exterior Features

Designed as a two-door coupe, the 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS rides on 14-inch wheels. Discounting the basic exterior features such as windshield wipers; rear window defogger; and head, tail and corner lights, the vehicle did not come from Mitsubishi with installed popular features for sports coupes such as rear spoilers, fog lamps and alloy wheels.

Price

The 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS featured a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price or MSRP of $14,970 upon release. As of 2010, the Kelley Blue Book estimates its price value between $2,900 and $3,300.

Fun Games That Help You in Test Driving a Car

Test driving a car is an important thing to do before putting your good money down and actually purchasing a car, as it will give you insight into how the car drives, how comfortable it is inside and if you will be happy with it two years from the day you buy it. There are certain games you can play when testing driving the car to make sure it is right for you.

Other People's Opinions

While out on your test drive, go to a popular cafe or area where there are a lot of people walking by. Park the car, get out and ask them their opinions of it. See what other people think of the car, if the way it looks and perceive a person with that automobile matters to you. This will also be fun to see the reactions of people as well as the salesman who is riding around with you.

Parking Games

With big cars, their sheer size often makes them difficult to park in small spaces, and may make you uncomfortable parking the car in these situations. If the size of a large mid-sized car or an SUV is an issue for you when deciding whether or not to buy a car, bring two to four traffic cones with you when you are shopping for cars and bring them with you on your test drive. Go to an empty parking lot or a relatively empty parking lot and practice parking the larger car between these two cones.

Race Car Video Games

Many popular race car video games have cars programmed in the game itself which actually drive like cars you can actually buy on the road. Playing these video games regularly will help you test drive a wide variety of cars from the comfort of your own living room. XBox 360's game Test Drive Unlimited actually allows you to drive a wide variety of cars, ranging from low-end cars to luxury sports cars. There are also a number of different online video game sites which allow you to test drive cars, though few are as realistic as going to the car lot and test driving the real thing.

How Many GM Earnings Can You Use on a Vehicle?

The General Motors MasterCard provides unlimited 5 percent earnings on credit card purchases. Earnings count toward the purchase of a new GM vehicle, up to that vehicle's allowable redemption amount.

Base Earnings Redemption Allowances

Base earnings redemption allowances vary from $1,000 to $3,000 on new 2011 GM vehicles, depending on make and model. For example, for most cars the allowance is $1,000, though for some Buick and Cadillac model cars, it is $1,500 or $2,000. SUVs and trucks vary from $1,000 to $2,000, and full-sized vans can have an allowance of $3,000. The GM Card's website provides a redemption allowance look-up.

Bonus Earnings

GM offers bonus opportunities to accrue earnings that are redeemed above and beyond the vehicle's redemption allowance. By making purchases online at participating merchants through the GM Card member bonus shop, cardholders can accrue both the regular earnings of five percent and bonus earnings as specified by the particular retailer. Bonus earnings can be added to the redemption allowance for the particular vehicle you are purchasing.

Expiration

Both regular earnings and bonus earnings are valid for seven years from the last day of the billing cycle in which they were earned.

How to Buy a Used Mazda RX7

The Mazda RX7 is classic sports car that was popular in the 1980s and early 1990s. The Mazda RX7 has an odd rotary engine that isn't used on many cars today, but the engine can be easily taken apart. Because Mazda stopped importing the car to the United States in 1995, you can only buy used RX7s. The RX7 is still very popular, so be prepared to pay a handsome price for this car.

Instructions

1

Decide what you want. Mazda sold three generations of the RX7 in the United States. The last generation was the most expensive. Different RX7s have different horsepower strengths. Some RX-7s come with four seats, but most only have two.

2

Go to a Mazda dealer. Dealers often have used car lots for their trade-ins, and they may have an RX7. A Mazda dealer can also tell you the ins and outs of the car.

3

Check auto magazines like "Auto Trader." These magazines list used cars for sale by owners, and they often feature classic sports cars like the RX7. "Auto Trader" is available in many drugstores and supermarkets.

4

Go to specialty sports car websites (see Resources) to find used RX7s.

5

Take the car for a test drive. Buying any car requires a thorough test drive. Don't just drive the car for fun--drive in traffic to see how it handles on a routine basis.

6

Consider your daily drive. The Mazda RX7s, especially the later models, are fun rides, but not necessarily great for everyday commutes. The rotary engine is not very fuel efficient, either.

7

Find a mechanic who is willing to work on these cars with their specialty engines. Also have the mechanic investigate the car for trouble before you make the final decision.

What Are the Dangers of Rebuilt Cars?

The cost of automobile ownership has been steadily rising ever since Henry Ford delivered his first Model T. In the hopes of saving some hard-earned cash, many people opt to purchase a used vehicle. While there are some perfectly fine used automobiles on lots all over this country, there are some dangerous ones. It is estimated that 70 percent of rebuilt vehicles are below industry standards and 40 percent of those are simply dangerous and should not be driven.

Buy Smart

Never purchase a used vehicle without running a vehicle history check on it. This will tell you the vehicles history and alert you to any past major repairs. Since some states do not issue Rebuilt titles on salvaged cars, this is your best option. It is possible for a dealer to purchase a damaged vehicle and take it to a state that does not issue titles denoting salvage or rebuilt status on the title and sell the vehicle with a clean title. This makes it extremely difficult for the purchaser to know that the vehicle has been involved in an accident or natural disaster. The buyer is likely to find out this information only when they attempt to sell the vehicle and the next proposed buyer runs a vehicle history on the vehicle. This can be detrimental on the resale price of the vehicle.

Potential Problems

Vehicles that have sat in water are prone to electrical problems and engine component problems. Vehicles that have been repaired due to collision damage may have structural damage. Many times these vehicle suffer from premature tire wear and poor handling characteristics. Often, the windows of a vehicle that has been in a flood will fog on a sunny day. These vehicles may incur dashboard problems and the gauges may fail to read correctly. Air bag malfunction is another consequence of water damage. This type of damage may only show itself when the vehicle is involved in a dangerous collision. It is not uncommon for rebuilders to fail to replace deployed air bags and simply dismantle the air-bag monitoring system. Beyond the structural damage involved with rebuilt vehicles, are the biological problems. Flooded vehicles are prone to toxic mold problems. Mold can form in the heating and air-conditioning systems, as well as under seats and inside interior panels and headliners.

Get a second opinion

Prior to making any used vehicle purchase, make arrangements to have an independent mechanic inspect it. Most reputable auto dealers will not object to an independent inspection of an automobile. This inspection should include checking the chassis and suspension, the safety equipment (air bags) and the engine. Lift the carpet and check for mud. The interior should be checked for rust on seat belt mechanisms. It is a good idea to remove an interior door panel and examine it for water damage. Most vehicles have a paper moisture barrier inside of the door that will show water damage.

How to Buy a New Car From the Factory

So you want a new car, but you just can't find one with all the options and with the color combination that you want. Maybe ordering your new car directly from the factory is right for you. It has its upsides since you'll be getting exactly what you want, but you'll also be waiting up to 12 weeks to get your car from the factory to your door.

Instructions

How to buy a new car from the factory

1

Visit your local dealership and take a look at all the options and colors available in person. The manufacturer will not accept an order directly from the customer. The order must be placed by a dealership so pick one that is reputable.

2

Find out what the MSRP and invoice price are on the vehicle. Just because it's being ordered doesn't mean that the price is set in stone.

3

Negotiate the price you want to pay. If you are planning on leasing, ask them what the car would lease for right then and there. Some banks will give you the option to save whatever leases are currently available until your car arrives. This is called "Lease Protection."

4

Ask about any incentives that are currently available on the car: cash back, lease, finance. Keep your options open and see what will suit your needs the best and what makes the most sense to you.

5

Place your order and sit back and wait. Some cars can take up to 12 weeks to arrive, especially if you are dealing with German manufacturers. Plan on renting or borrowing a vehicle, if you do not already have one, while you wait for your ordered car to get here.

6

Be ready when your new vehicle gets here. If you haven't signed any paperwork, such as a lease agreement, the dealership is not under any obligation to hold the vehicle for you until you are ready. Your perfectly ordered vehicle could go to the next willing customer that walks through the showroom doors.

A List of Things to Check for When Buying a Used Car

When you're buying a used car, you need to inspect the car as much as possible so you don't end up with a clunker. Knowing what to look for before you start will help you shop and buy with confidence. Try to go during daylight, when problems will be more visible. Also, don't rush through your inspection. If you can, inspect your own car first so you're familiar with the process.

Body

The seams where all of the body panels meet should be straight. This includes the doors, fenders, hood and trunk. All paint should be the same color. Recent painting can indicate a rust problem. Stick a magnet to each body panel, paying special attention to the areas where rusting can occur, such as the bottom edges of the doors and fenders. If the magnet doesn't stick, body filler may have been used in that area to repair accident damage or rust.
Look inside the trunk, wheel wells, and under the hood for areas that may have been crumpled in an accident and straightened. Inspect the row of holes on the underside of the car just inside the outer edge on each side. If the holes have been recently cleaned, or are scratched, this could indicate that the car's frame was straightened after an accident.
The doors, hood and trunk should all open and close easily.

Tires

The tires should all have the same amount of tread and should be the same size and brand. The spare tire should be inflated. If the vehicle has locking hubcaps, the owner should demonstrate how to remove them.

Suspension

Walk around the car to see if it sits evenly. Lean on each corner of the car to bounce it. The car should bounce only once or twice, with no creaking sound, and then stop. All four corners should react the same way.

Gas Cap

Check that the gas cap is present. If it's a locking gas cap, the owner should provide the key. Open the gas cap and verify that there is a fuel-nozzle restrictor. Most states require this to prevent adding leaded fuel.

Interior

Inspect the upholstery for tears and stains. The dashboard should appear in good condition. Adjust both front seats to make sure they move smoothly. Activate the parking brake to ensure that it engages and releases completely. Make sure that all the window cranks or controls, door locks and handles, and dashboard controls are present and work properly. Test the heater, air conditioner, audio system and alarm. The owner should provide the alarm control. Turn on the interior and dashboard lights to make sure they work. If the carpeting or upholstery smells of mildew, there may have been flood damage. Look at the top of the carpet underneath the dashboard. Stains in that area can indicate a leaking heater core or air conditioner.

Engine

Open the hood of the car and run the engine until it warms up. The car should start easily, idle smoothly and should not stall. The engine belts should not look worn. The engine warning lights on the dashboard should not light up. Unusual smells can be caused by fluids leaking onto hot engine parts. Listen to the engine. You should hear the belts whirring, with no clanking, knocking or hissing. Look for shiny or clean areas where a part may have been removed. While the engine is running, look at the exhaust pipe. White or blue smoke can indicate engine trouble. The engine itself should not smoke.

Under the Car

Examine the ground underneath the car for puddles of engine fluid. Antifreeze is green, power steering and transmission fluid are reddish, and oil and brake fluid is dark brown or black. Look at the car's undercarriage for signs of rust. No parts should be missing or loose.

Test Drive

The car shouldn't hesitate when you accelerate. Test the cruise control, if available, to make sure it works properly. The car shouldn't pull to one side while you are driving. The steering wheel should turn easily and the car shouldn't resist or make noise when turning. The car should not shake or rattle at highway speeds. Drive next to a solid center median or a solid side wall, and open the window halfway to listen to the car. You should hear the tires on the road and no rattling from the engine. The transmission should shift smoothly, whether automatic or manual. If the car has a manual transmission, accelerate hard while in third or fourth gear. If the car doesn't speed up, the clutch could be slipping. Step on the brakes to see if they stop the car without pulling to the side. If the car has ABS brakes, stop suddenly to make sure that the ABS activates. If the vehicle has four-wheel drive, engage the four-wheel drive on an appropriate road surface and drive in forward and reverse to make sure the vehicle performs smoothly with no unexpected noises.

Car Dealer Key Etiquette

Car dealers have a reputation for sometimes using unscrupulous tactics to close a sale. One of the ways in which they do this is related to a customer's car keys. An honest dealer will use proper key etiquette when handling keys to assess a trade-in. Bad key etiquette is a warning sign that other tricks might be afoot.

Purpose

A car dealership will request a customer's keys when it needs to assess his car for the potential trade-in value. This allows the assessor to evaluate the car while the customer and salesperson look at new vehicles. The customer should be told how much the dealer will offer for his trade-in if he decides to buy a car. Proper etiquette dictates that his keys be returned promptly so he can leave the dealership whenever he chooses.

Problems

Some dealerships use their possession of the customer's keys as a way to keep her from leaving if the negotiations for a new car stall. She will ask for the keys, and the salesperson or manager will claim they cannot be found. This gives someone from the dealership a chance to apply more sales pressure while she waits for her keys to be located. The salesperson and manager will take as much time as they please since they actually have the keys are simply stalling.

Considerations

Poor car dealer key etiquette is annoying on its own, but it may also be a sign the dealership engages in other unscrupulous actions. Ask yourself if you really want to work with a business that plays the "lost key" game if the sales person tries to persuade you not to leave. There are usually plenty of dealerships for any particular brand. Hold firm, walk out and find a place that deals with its customers in an upfront manner.

Prevention/Solution

Prevent car dealer breaches of key etiquette by negotiating the trade-in deal after your purchase negotiations are complete. Cars.com explains you will usually get a better deal if you keep the two transactions completely separate. If you are car shopping and the salesperson asks if you plan to trade in your current vehicle, simply reply, "I haven't decided yet." You won't be asked for your keys, and you can focus solely on price negotiations.

Warning

Do not give your entire key ring to anyone at the dealership. Most people carry their house keys on the same ring. An unscrupulous person could make a copy and pass it along to someone who will burglarize you later. The dealer will have your address on its paperwork if you purchase a vehicle or fill anything else out, which makes it easy to match the key with your home.

Hybrid Cars for Kids

Being conscientious of the environment seldom comes without some cost. One sacrifice which should never be made, however, is in sacrificing the safety of your children for an economical hybrid car. Several hybrid cars do make the grade, however, in providing excellent safety records according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which grades new cars yearly based on crash test data.

Volkswagen Toureg V6 TSI Hybrid

The Volkswagen Toureg hybrid features a 380 horsepower, three-liter hybrid engine and was the only hybrid SUV to garner the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety designation of "Top Pick" for 2011. Its remarkable safety record and impressive performance make it one of the very best choices when purchasing a hybrid kid-friendly vehicle. Not only can the Toureg keep pace with some powerful non-hybrid cars, all while towing a boat, but the kids can relax in comfort in the Toureg's back cabin whiling away the trip silently watching movies on the Toureg's optional DVD entertainment system.

Ford Fusion Hybrid

The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid was named one of the IIHS top safety picks in not just its side, front and rear impact test results, but in its rollover crash results as well. The Ford Fusion hybrid is powered by a 2.4L Atkinson I4 engine with an electric motor mated to a continuously variable transmission which further increases fuel economy to as much as 41 miles per gallon on the highway. The combination produces 191 horsepower and 136 foot-pounds of torque.

Honda Civic Hybrid 4 Door

The Honda Civic Hybrid four-door offered ample protection in the event of rollover, side, front and rear collisions in IIHS testing. Its 110-horsepower engine is fitted to a continuously variable transmission to help boost fuel economy to as much as 43 mpg on the highway. Kid friendly features of the car include car seat anchor hooks as well as an eight-disc CD changer and MP3 audio interface for entertainment.

Toyota Prius

Toyota's Prius, the quintessential hybrid car, garnered the IIHS's top safety pick in 2010 after a redesign made the car wider and longer. The addition of several safety systems include electronic stability control as well as front and side curtain airbags. Child seat safety tethers are mounted to the frame of the car at the outboard rear passenger seats, and both rear doors are protected with child safety locks. Entertainment options include a four-disc CD changer with MP3 compatibility.

1997 Dodge Dakota 2WD Recall

The 1997 Dodge Dakota was the debut model-year entry for the second generation of production for the mid-size pickup truck under Chrysler's Dodge Ram line-up. The vehicle--which includes its two/rear wheel (2WD) incarnation--had a litany of recalls due to mechanical, electrical and engine-related programs.

Suspension

The suspension recall, occurring in 2008, was the only one that specifically affected the 1997 Dodge Dakota 2WD. SKF USA, Inc. made hub units for vehicles with 2WD drive (and rear axle anti-lock braking) that had unnecessarily long rotor pilots. As a result, the steering wheel did not fully sit against the hub flange face during mounting. SKF replaced the hub units free of charge to prevent, in the very worst instance, a wheel separation during driving.

Replacement Fuel Performance Kits

Some 1997 Dodge Dakotas had replacement fuel performance kits by K&N Engineering--sold under the Mopar performance parts brand name--that could have parts of it sucked into the truck's engine throttle body to jam it, thus possibly leading to unintended acceleration. With the recall beginning on April 2006, K&N offered a free repair kit for the affected vehicles.

Exterior Lighting

Aftermarket parts manufacturers AJ Motorsport, Pro-A Motors, Dope, Inc. and Saber Sport made exterior lamp assemblies for the '97 Dakota that lacked amber side reflectors, thus violating the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108. The manufacturers offered to either repurchase the lamps or offer a full refund for them. The recall for AJ and Pro-A began in 2006, while that of Dope and Sabersport began in 2009.

Clearance

Some 1997 Dodge Dakotas were recalled--beginning from September 2000--because of two distinct clearance issues. One was insufficient clearance between the fuel line and the vehicle's underbody, while the other involved insufficient clearance between the left front brake tube and power steering hose.
To prevent perforation in both instances, dealers installed redesigned fuel lines and power steering standoff brackets after inspection to determine improper clearance.

Brakes

Chrysler had to issue a recall for some 1997 Dodge Dakotas on September 2000 for replacement brake hydraulic master cylinders from Brake Parts, Inc. that lose flexibility at cold temperatures. This could cause brake fluid to leak and decrease brake line pressure, thus increasing stopping distance. Brake Parts, Inc. replaced the cylinders free of charge.

Airbags

In July 1997, some 1997 Dodge Dakotas were recalled for a defective electrical circuit design, which could unexpectedly deploy the airbags upon turning off the ignition. Authorized dealers replaced the airbag electronic control module with a newly designed one. Four years later, in 2001, more Dakotas were recalled for the possible failure of airbags to deploy due to detached sound deadener material inside the steering wheel interfering with the clockspring ribbon. This prompted replacement of the clockspring assembly.

Contact

Apart from the problems caused by the third-party manufacturers, Chrysler authorizes the repairs for the 1997 Dodge Dakota recalls to be done free of charge because it has accepted liability for the manufacturing defects. Owners who think they have these aforementioned problems can contact the manufacturer at 800-853-1403, the NHTSA Vehicle Safety hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 800-424-9153) or visit Safercar.gov (see Resources).

BMW X6 Information

The X6 Series was added to German luxury brand BMW's line up of sports activity vehicles in early 2008. Boasting 3 different engine strengths, several new technologies and an exterior unlike that of other vehicles in its class, the X6 comes in 3 different models. While the reaction to the X6 within the car industry has been mixed, it is a vehicle to be considered if you are in the market for a new sports activity vehicle.

X6 Models

The difference between the 3 BMW X6 models is in the engine. The X6 35i model features a 6-cylinder, 300-horsepower engine. The more powerful 50i model, on the other hand, has a twin-turbo V-8 engine, 400-horsepower engine. The high performance X6 M model, to be released in 2010, will be equipped with a 555-horsepower turbocharged V-8 engine. However, all 3 BMW X6 models are similar in that all have 4-wheel drive.

Pricing

The BMW X6 35i, 50i and M models are priced starting at $55,900, $66,650 and $88,900, respectively. The X6 Series price places it in the middle of the price spectrum for vehicles in its class. For instance, all 3 X6 models cost less than its competitors Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Cayenne Turbo S, both of which provide the same horsepower as the X6 M. The Infiniti FX35, on the other hand, also has a horsepower rating similar to that of the X6 Series, but it costs less than any of the X6 models.

Identification

The X6 is longer and wider than its predecessor, the BMW X5. In addition, the X6 is lower and only provides seating room for 4 people. Visually, the X6 blends the characteristics of an SUV with those of a coupe, resulting in a vehicle that has 4-wheel drive, the ability to handle harsh terrains and climates, large tires and wheels and a sloping roof. The X6 is equipped with 19-inch V-spoke alloy wheels and run-flat tire technology, which allows you to drive with a flat tire a distance of up to 150 miles at reduced speed.

Entertainment and Convenience

The X6 features a 6-disc DVD player that transmits images to both front and rear seats, whose screens are compatible with multi-channel audio sources. Passengers can plug in their iPhone or iPod into a USB adapter situated next to the center console. In the X6, music from MP3 players and the radio is broadcast through a 16-speaker high definition surround sound system. Each passenger has individual control of digital sound processing and equalizing.

Unique Selling Points

The X6 is the first SUV with an automatic transmission to be produced by BMW. In addition, the X6 is the first BMW series to be equipped with the Dynamic Performance Control system. This feature provides better body control by restoring traction and compensating for under-steer and over-steer at any speed. In a process referred to as "torque vectoring," the vehicle's torque is distributed between the front and back wheels, as well as across the rear axle, to increase stability and improve handling.

How to Buy Previous Rental Cars

Buying a used car instead of a new one can save you thousands of dollars. Buying from a rental company may save you even more. Although horror stories about the abuse of rental cars have been reported widely, the best way to avoid trouble is to buy from a reputable rental car company. This will ensure that the engine has been properly maintained, perhaps even more than if the car had been privately owned. Reputable rental companies tend to rotate their inventory, replacing them with new cars every one to two years. The result can be a decent vehicle for a fair price.

Instructions

1

Visit the websites of top rental car agencies. There are four top rental agency websites--Enterprise, Hertz, Budget and Avis--even though there are six national rental agencies. Enterprise owns Alamo and National. The websites will allow you to search by location, vehicle type and price. All of the websites offer details and mileage information about vehicles they are offering for sale.

2

Narrow your selection. Once you have decided on a make, model and price, contact the rental agency and schedule a test drive. Hertz offers a "Rent2Buy" option that allows you to take an extended test drive.

3

Be willing to sacrifice fully loaded for well-maintained. "The reality is that rental cars are clean, their entire maintenance history is documented, and their price can be quite attractive," according to Motortrend's Pre-Owned Buyer's Guide. Motortrend points out that most rental cars are only one or two years old when available for sale but may lack the value-added options available on most makes and models.

4

Ask about the history of the car. According to Edmunds, you should say, "Let me see the Carfax," which will tell, among other things, whether the car has been involved in a wreck. Also ask how much warranty remains on the car. On its website, Edmunds says: "In an Edmunds.com story, two editors went used car shopping. One of their stops was a rental agency used car lot. They found the prices to be competitive. Furthermore, the vehicles are only one year old, so the balance of the warranty is still in effect."

5

Do not hesitate. "One of the biggest advantages of buying a rental car is that they are often priced less than comparable models sold at a dealership or available through a private party," according to an MSN auto news report.

Pros & Cons of Buying a Used Car From a Towing Company

Buying a used car from a towing company may mean getting a lower price, but buyers should take care to avoid a number of possible pitfalls when shopping for a vehicle bargain.

Availability

Towing companies often have a diverse selection of available vehicles, and some companies participate in multicompany auction services that allow buyers to browse large inventories. According to one such service known as Tow Lot, buyers can browse available vehicles to find a suitable match. Tow Lot points out that buyers should purchase vehicles quickly, though, as other buyers or even the vehicle's owner may lay claim to the car at any time.

Quality

Used cars available at towing companies range from fully functional, nearly new vehicles to cars intended for use only as spare parts. Buyers should exercise caution to ensure the vehicle has no major mechanical problems before committing to a purchase.

Test Drives

Although buyers typically take used cars for a lengthy test drive before committing to a purchase, towing companies do not always allow this luxury. In the Frequently Asked Questions section of its website, Cops Towing of Banks, Oregon, notes that drivers cannot legally test drive towed vehicles on the streets. The company does allow buyers to verify that the vehicle's major systems function, though.

Price

Towing companies often sell vehicles at considerably lower prices than used car dealers. Although Cops Towing offers a selection of vehicles for under $1,000 as of October 2010, some vehicle prices reached nearly $40,000.

Tips on Leasing a Vehicle

Leasing a vehicle is a financial transaction, and it is also a contract. Inspecting the contract before signing an automotive lease is extremely important. It can help you avoid hidden costs presented at the end of a lease that the dealer did not inform you of verbally. Knowing what these costs are can help you prepare before your lease ends to avoid those expenses.

Mileage Limits

Inquire about mileage limits when you are planning on leasing a car. These should be clearly stated in the lease agreement. Find out the additional costs per mile that you must pay at the end of your lease based on the excess mileage over the amount you are permitted in your lease. This must be considered when you compute your cost of the lease. Have an idea about how many miles a year you plan to drive your leased vehicle. If your estimate is higher than the permitted mileage, ask the dealer for a higher allowance for mileage. If the dealer will not honor this request, walk away from the deal, and wait to receive a call back honoring your request for the higher limit, or talk with another dealer.

Purchasing the Car

At the end of the lease, you will be given an option to purchase the vehicle. According to carbuyingtips.com, this offered price is typically $3,000 to $4,000 higher than the market value of the vehicle, and also has a purchase option fee of $300 to $400 added to it. Even if the dealer has additional fees you must pay based on your not purchasing the vehicle, you can save money by paying these if they are higher than the inflated price he will charge you to purchase the leased vehicle. If you decide you want to purchase the vehicle, Edmunds.com suggests that you do not pay the average retail price, but rather negotiate with the dealer for a cost closer to the wholesale price of the vehicle.

Lease Trades

Do not cancel your lease early. The leasing contract you sign will have heavy financial penalties for doing so. If you wish to get out of your lease, contact a company such as leasetrader.com or swapalease.com to help you transfer your lease to another interested party. You can either sell your lease or exchange leases with someone else looking to get out from under their current automotive lease. Check your lease agreement when you sign it, though, to make sure there are no stipulations adding additional costs if you do trade or sell your lease, or to see if the agreement forbids this transaction. Reading the lease contract before you sign it is essential.

Avoiding Fees

When you return your leased vehicle to the dealer, make sure it is washed and detailed before presenting it. The money you pay to a company to clean and detail it can save you a substantial cleaning charge by the dealer. Save your receipt to prove it was cleaned and detailed. Present the dealer with paperwork documenting all repairs done on the vehicle during your lease and documentation that you had all required routine maintenance performed. If there is any body damage to the vehicle, Edmunds.com suggests having it repaired before presenting it to the dealer to avoid high repair costs presented by the dealer.

Specifications on the 1988 Mustang GT

The 1988 Ford Mustang is one of the model-year entries of the third generation of production for the iconic pony car. Of its two trims, the GT is the higher-end version. The GT is available as a hatchback and convertible.

Engines and Transmissions

The GT trim features the more powerful 4.9-liter, 225-horsepower V-8 engine with 300 foot-pounds of torque and a compression ratio of 9 to 1. Although the standard transmission is a five-speed manual overdrive, there is an option to get a four-speed automatic overdrive. The 1988 GT can hit 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.4 seconds.

Fuel Economy

The 1988 Ford Mustang GT achieves 16 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving. It has worse gas mileage than the LX version, which offers a fuel economy of 25/30 mpg.

Interior

The 1988 Ford Mustang GT has a cabin big enough to accommodate up to four people. The hatchback and convertible have roughly the same amount of leg room, as well as front shoulder and front hip room. However, the hatchback offers a little more rear shoulder and rear hip room than the convertible, while the convertible comes with more front and rear head room than the hatchback.

Exterior

As a two-door vehicle, the 1988 Ford Mustang GT is 180 inches long, 69 inches wide and 52 inches tall, with a 101-inch wheelbase. Curb weight is 3,193 for the hatchback and 3,329 pounds for the convertible, and it features 15-inch alloy wheels and a turning diameter of 41 feet. The 1988 Mustang GT comes in the following colors: Black, Dark Grey Metallic, Light Grey, Bright and Cabernet Red, Medium Shadow Blue Metallic, Tropical Yellow, Dark Shadow and Bright Regatta Blue Metallic and Oxford White.

Price Range

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 1988 Ford Mustang GT hatchback was $12,745, while that of the convertible was $16,610. As of April 2010, a 1988 Mustang GT can be purchased within the $3,000 to $8,000 range.