What Is the Hyundai Veracruz?

The Hyundai Veracruz is a luxurious but safe and powerful sport utility vehicle. Featuring a 3.8-liter V-6 engine, dual front automatic temperature controls and six airbags, this SUV may be an affordable option compared to its more costly competitors.

Background

The Veracruz is a seven-passenger luxury crossover utility vehicle introduced in 2006 by Korean manufacturer Hyundai.

Features

As of 2010, the Veracruz comes in two trim levels, including the GLS and Limited versions, and prices range between $28,000 and $35,000. Some basic features include electronic stability control, backup warning signal and a rear window defroster.

Size

The Hyundai Veracruz weighs 3,500 pounds. It is 190.6 inches long, 76.6 inches wide and 71.1 inches tall.

Benefits

This vehicle comes with a five-year/60,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000 mile power train warranty.

Considerations

According to the website Edmunds.com, optional features--such as a navigation system, leather seating and entertainment options--cost more in the Veracruz than in competing models. In addition, the Hyundai Veracruz is not as roomy as its competitors due to the smaller third row seating.

Suzuki GS500F Specs

Suzuki introduced the GS500 motorcycle in 1980. It descended from the GS400 and GS450 and is intended primarily as an entry-level motorcycle for those who are confident and comfortable enough to handle a comparatively small motorcycle that still packs considerable horsepower. Suzuki totally redesigned the GS500 as the GS500E in 1989, adding a full-floater swingarm and slingshot carburetors, and improving the chassis. The GS500F retains the same basic body type as the GS500E, though the fairing has become more elaborate and the performance has improved. The 2009 GS500F is the most recent model of the motorcycle as of late 2010.

Pysical Dimensions

The 2009 Suzuki GS500F has an overall length of 81.9 inches, an overall width of 31.5 inches, a wheelbase of 55.3 inches and a ground clearance of 4.7 inches. It has a curb weight of 439 pounds. Suzuki quit providing the dry weight of their motorcycles and ATVs in 2009. The curb weight is the weight of the motorcycle as it would be driven, with all necessary fluids and a full tank of fuel.

Engine

The 2009 Suzuki GS500F comes with 487-cubic-centimeter, four-stroke, air-cooled, dual-overhead-camshaft (DOHC) engine with a bore and stroke of 2.913 inches by 2.228 inches and a compression ratio of 9.0-to-1. It is a wet-sump engine with a twin BSR34 fuel system, a transistorized electronic ignition and an electric starter. The engine is paired with a six-speed, constant-mesh transmission and is fed by a 5.5-gallon fuel tank. The 2009 GS500F earns an estimated 59 miles per gallon.

Brakes and Suspension

There are single-disc brakes on the front and rear of the 2009 Suzuki GS500F. It comes with coil-spring, oil-damped telescopic suspension on the front end and coil-spring, oil-damped link-type suspension on the rear end. It has a tubeless 110/70-17M/C (54H) tire on the front and a tubeless 130/70-17M/C (62H) tire on the rear.

How to Buy a Hail Damaged Car

Buying a car with hail damage has the advantage of a sometimes large reduction in price. It also can make the car difficult to resell; the main trick is making sure the damage is all cosmetic and doesn't affect the way the car runs. If you're willing to drive a car that looks dented, a hail-damaged car can be one of your cheapest options. If you're thinking of buying it and fixing it up, keep in mind that full-body damage can make the car more expensive to fix than to replace.

Instructions

1

Look up the car or cars you're considering in the Consumer Reports guide. It has accurate, up-to-date information on the worth of new and used cars in the U.S. If you don't have a physical copy, check the used car section of the site. Type in a make and model or browse categories. Write down the average sale price of each used car you're interested in.

2

Find hail-damaged cars in local classified ads in the paper and online. You can also call your local auto shops, especially after a hail storm. Make sure you have the average value from Consumer Reports as a baseline for each car you look at.

3

Call or email the current owner and ask about the hail damage. How big was the hail? How widespread is the damage? Have the windows been replaced already? Was the body damage severe enough to impair how the car runs? If the owner can't answer all these questions, ask that he take it to a shop and have it looked at and have the mechanic call you to answer your questions.

4

Go look at the car and take it for a test drive. Take a look at the dents in the car and make sure they are only dents and not holes. Ask if you can have an independent mechanic look at it if you have any further questions.

5

Buy the car if it's met all of the above requirements. In most used car sales, you'll be buying it directly from a person and not getting a loan, so if you set up a payment plan make sure you have it in writing and signed by all parties. If you're buying a used car from an auto lot, go through its paperwork process.

What Are the Laws When Buying a Salvaged Car in California?

The California Department of Motor Vehicles allows drivers to buy salvaged vehicles or parts either directly from a junkyard or from a used car dealer. California law requires dealers to disclose that a vehicle has been in an accident as well as mandating that buyers pass multiple inspections before driving a salvaged or junked vehicle.

Definition

The California DMV defines a salvaged car as any vehicle that has either been destroyed to the point that repairs are impossible or has not been repaired because the owner's insurance company refuses to cover the cost of repair. Vehicles that the insurance company refuses to repair are known as "totaled" vehicles because the insurance company deems them as total losses.

Salvage Vehicles and Titles

When a car is totaled, the owner must exchange the car's title at the California DMV for a certificate of salvage. If the owner then repairs the vehicle, she may exchange the certificate of salvage for a special title called a revival of salvage title. Salvaged vehicles will never have an ordinary title again; it is illegal to sell a salvaged vehicle without a title indicating that it has been totaled.

Junked Vehicles

Junked vehicles are another type of salvaged vehicle. A junked vehicle is a vehicle made up entirely of parts from one or more salvaged vehicles. These vehicles must be re-registered as junked vehicles before they may be sold. Sellers must provide paperwork for each part sold to a customer; the customer needs to present this paperwork when re-registering the junked vehicle.

Salvage Vehicle Inspections

Before the new owner can drive a salvaged vehicle, it must pass two DMV inspections. First, the DMV must inspect all parts used in the vehicle to ensure they were bought legally. It is illegal to purchase stolen parts, even if the consumer did not know the parts were stolen. The DMV may seize any parts or the entire vehicle if the parts were not bought legally. The parts inspection costs $50 as of 2010 and is done by appointment.

Once this inspection is completed, the vehicle must also pass a brake and light safety test. This inspection is not performed at the DMV; the owner goes to a state-certified inspection site. The mechanic gives the owner a certificate of brake and light safety once the inspection is complete.

Re-registration

The vehicle must be re-registered in the new owner's name after sale. To re-register, the owner must possess the revival of salvage title, bill of sale and certificates of inspection. The owner must also present proof of insurance to the DMV in order to re-register the vehicle.

How to Find a Good Used Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer was introduced in 1991 and quickly became one of the most popular vehicles in the United States. In 2000, the Explorer was the best-selling vehicle, with nearly half a million new models sold. The sheer number of new Explorer sales opened the floodgates for used Explorers entering the market. Finding a "good" used Ford Explorer is not necessarily about price: it's about finding a well-maintained vehicle within your budget, one that will last you in the years to come.

Instructions

1

Determine your budget. Whether you are financing the Explorer or paying cash for it, you need to determine how much you can spend (whether the budget is for a monthly payment or an out-the-door cash price).

2

Search for Explorers within your price range. Use Internet resources--such as Cars.com, Autotrader.com, Vehix.com or Craigslist.com--to find Ford Explorers nearby within your budget. Browse your newspaper's "For Sale by Owner" classifieds section for vehicles and visit nearby dealerships (new and used). Some vehicles available on dealer lots are unadvertised.

3

Check for common trouble spots. Each Explorer model-year may have different trouble spots. For example, 2002 models have a higher rate of transmission complaints, according to CarComplaints.com, than other models. (See References 3) Use resources such as Consumer Reports, CarComplaints.com and J.D. Power and Associates to check for common trouble spots. If a particular model-year has a higher rate of complaints, consider another year. You can also phone your nearby Ford service department for assistance--in most cases, they will be happy to answer questions.

4

Check for open recalls. An open recall doesn't mean you should avoid a specific model-year altogether--it just means you'll need to take care of the problem immediately after purchase. The National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NTHSA) governs automobile recalls. You can enter the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of a specific Explorer to determine if a recall campaign is open.

5

Run a vehicle history report on the vehicle. If you are purchasing from a dealer, you can usually get a Carfax report for free. If not, you can order one from Carfax.com (you need the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number).

6

Inspect the Explorer. It's usually worth paying a professional mechanic to perform a pre-sale inspection. A pre-sale inspection could reveal problems not apparent to the naked eye--such as a minor oil leak or dry-rotted tires. You can use the results of the inspection to write-off the vehicle as a bad one or use it as leverage in negotiations.

How do I Find a Used Pickup in Montana?

When you desire to purchase a used pickup truck in the state of Montana, there are several resources you can use to locate a truck that is right for you. After finding a used pickup truck that you like, be sure to have the vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic. You should also check the vehicle history report for the used pickup truck to ensure the odometer reading is correct, check accident history, review owner history and to confirm that the truck does not have a rebuilt title.

Instructions

1

Peruse the classified ads of Montana newspapers, such as the Helena Independent Record, Billings Gazette, Dillon Tribune, Liberty County Times, Fairfield Sun Times and Havre Daily News. You can also search the free Thrifty Nickel newspaper. When searching the classified ads be sure to look in the "Trucks" section. If you don't want to pay for a newspaper, you can view classifieds ads for free on each newspaper's website.

2

Visit a Montana used car dealer to find your pickup truck. There are used car dealers all over the state. To find those near you, you can use online resources such as the Automotive website, Edmunds and AutoTrader. Many of the major car dealers, such as Bob Smith Lincoln Mercury, Taylors AutoMax, Bison Motor Company, and Dean Newton Cadillac GMC, also sell used cars.

3

Check out the "Montana" section of the Craigslist website. Click the link for your specific city. Look in the "For Sale" section for "Cars + Trucks." You will then be able to type in the "Search" field the type of pickup truck you are looking for.

How Are New Car Taxes Calculated?

Purchasing a new car is a big decision. The government also takes its piece of the pie by charging taxes on your new car purchase. By doing some research with your car dealer and county tax office, you can determine the sales tax before closing the deal.

Location

The sales tax of the car purchased depends on location. Many states base this tax on the county where you reside. If you buy the car outside of the country you live in, confirm the tax before signing an agreement. Confirm this information by talking with your county tax office or dealer's finance manager.

Trade-in deducted

Before calculating your sales tax, factor in a trade-in. If you trade in your old vehicle, the dealer will provide a trade-in value. The trade-in value will be deducted from the new car sales price. The new car sales tax will be based on the amount after the trade-in.

Cash incentives

In addition to trade-ins lowering the new car price that is taxable, so do cash rebates. Many auto companies offer thousands of dollars "cash back." You won't get the dollars back but will have your new car price deducted by the rebate amount. And you will be taxed on the price less the cash incentive. For instance, a $20,000 new car price with a $1,000 rebate will result in $19,000 that is taxable.

Calculate tax

Determine the car price by taking the original price, deduct the trade-in value and cash incentives. Then, take the county sales tax rate, multiply that with the final car amount and you will have your final tax. For example, a $20,000 vehicle with a 7.5 percent tax would result in a taxable amount is $1,500.

Total cost

After calculating your sales tax, the tax will be added to your vehicle cost. When you finance a car, the sales tax is figured into your final financing.

Tips on Using a Car Broker for New Car Buying

If you don't have the time or desire to deal with the hassle often associated with new car shopping, an alternative is to use the services of a car broker. A car broker is often a former car dealer who will do all the shopping, negotiating and administrative work for you for a fee, usually ranging from $200 to $1,000. Before choosing a car broker, some tips on using one may prove helpful.

Broaden Your Search

Don't just limit your search for a car broker to the local phone book. An online service such as CarsDirect.com provides access to more than a million cars and charges a relatively low fee for its services. Wholesale membership clubs such as Sam's Club and Costco also provide car broker services to their members.

Check Credentials

If you decide to use a private or local car broker, be sure to check out her credentials and experience. Car brokers are required to be licensed to sell cars in every state they do business. According to Edmunds.com, the most reputable car brokers are often former car dealers who know the ins and outs of the car business and dealership tactics. You can also contact local dealers to see if they've heard of the broker.

Be Clear About the Fee

Most reputable car brokers will charge an up-front fee for their services, so you won't have to worry about any surprises after the transaction is completed. If your broker uses another method, such as charging a commission based on a percentage of the sale price, be sure that you understand exactly how the process will work.

Watch for Dealer Affilations

Some brokers may actually be affiliated with certain car dealers or in some cases, be employees of the dealership. While this type of arrangement is not illegal, it could mean that the broker will be more concerned about the dealer's interests than your own. Before signing on the dotted line with a local broker, anonymously call dealers near him to see what they have to say about the broker.

Do Your Own Shopping First

Before hiring a car broker, do some preliminary negotiating online by using car dealers that offer Internet sales. This will save you the time and hassle of having to go to the dealerships in person, and you'll be able to get some initial prices. You can then compare what you can save by shopping on your own against the fee charged by the broker to see if hiring a broker is really worth your while.

How to Provide Auto Insurance Information to the Lender

Auto insurance is a form of risk management used against potential contingent loss of a vehicle. Auto insurance is a contract agreement between an insured policyholder and an insurance company. In exchange for a premium, the insurance company provides coverage for property damage liability, bodily injury and uninsured motorist, if desired. Auto insurance usually goes hand in hand with automotive loans. Auto loan companies require that borrowers obtain full coverage auto insurance to protect their interests in the loan.

Instructions

1

Auto loans have different requirements depending on which lender is used. Most auto loan firms usually share the demand that auto insurance will make them whole, in the event of a total car wreck. This is to eliminate any financial liability on the part of the lender. Lenders require that this expensive type of insurance is obtained because it protects them from losing their consumer investment. It is especially important because often, a consumer is also not able to work after a serious car crash, which would make them unable to pay on the loan for the vehicle. In addition, the policy is in place to ensure that a consumer won't have to continue to pay for a vehicle that has been rendered unusable.

2

The amount and type of auto insurance required on auto loans will depend upon what state you reside in and which lender is used. Usually there are no minimum deductible requirements for collision and comprehensive, which includes fire and theft. The maximum deductible is often around $1,000 dollars. It is the choice of the consumer whom they buy auto insurance from. Some lenders include the convenience of also offering auto insurance services in their portfolio of offerings.

3

According to Loan.com, notations for interest charges may be added to the auto insurance to cover the lender that is financing or leasing the automobile to you. However, requirements vary from state to state, and from one lender to another. It's important to check for local requirements. Add the lender as an additional insured on the insurance policy to protect the lender's interest in the vehicle.

4

Show proof of auto insurance to the lender in order for the auto loan to be valid by surrendering a copy of an existing policy on the last car insured. Usually this will be sufficient in order to secure the loan. Any proof of insurance should also include the person in question on the policy. When the applicant produces a copy of their current or former auto policy, they can usually obtain a temporary insurance provision when purchasing a new car. If the loan applicant does not currently own a car, it will be required that they secure auto insurance and produce proof of it before the loan process will be complete and in effect. This is a standard requirement for most kinds of auto loans.

How Can I Locate a Vehicle I Owned in the Past Without a Vin?

If you have ever sold a car and wondered where it went, you might be able to answer that question. There are multiple ways to track down a car you owned in the past, but not having the VIN can make the process a bit more difficult. Using the information you have about the car and the last transaction, you can track down the history of owners and discover the current location of the vehicle.

Instructions

1

Contact the previous buyer first. Look through any email and phone numbers for that person and try to track them down. If you only have a name and former address, you can use that to search for the person. Look in the phone book or use an online directory.

2

Pay for an online service to track down the person. It will cost money, but if you give them the current address and name of the person, they will be able to provide you with the most recently registered phone number or address.

3

Ask this person about the vehicle, and if they sold it ask them for information regarding the buyer. You can repeat the first two steps as many times as needed to track down the current location of your old vehicle. If you are lucky, someone down the line might have recorded the VIN number which you could then use to more easily track down the vehicle.

4

Call the DMV and request information about the car. You can provide an old license plate number for them to use. There are a number of valid reasons that allow you to ask for this information. Check with the Drivers Policy Protection Act to see if you have the right to request this information.

How to Buy a Used Ford Focus

The Ford Focus was introduced in 1999 to replace the Ford Escort model. This version was much sportier and offered the buyer a chance to upgrade the standard SOHC engine to the DOHC Ztec engine. Prior to Ford's advent of its hybrid vehicles, the Focus was one of the company's more economical friendly cars. Despite this, the Ford Focus remains one of the top selling cars in North America.

Instructions

How to Buy a Used Ford Focus

1

Determine what kind of Ford Focus model you want. If you are interested in fast and sporty, then the ZX3 and ZX5 models are your best bet. Although these are higher in price than the base and equipped models, they have about 40 more horsepower depending on the year of the car. Four door sedans are listed as SE, LX and ZX4.

2

Figure out your budget. Standard Focus models in the early 2000s are a few thousand dollars. Much newer models are twice that amount and even more. Understand what is important to you. Roll up windows and cassette decks come standard in earlier base models. So you may need to spend more money if this is not an option for you.

3

Research the model that you have in mind in the Kelly Blue book. Compare the horse power, torque and fuel economy between models from different years.

4

Go to a used car lot and test out a model that you are interested in. Make sure that the steering wheel is balanced and does not shift either way. Check the tire pressure. Listen for any unusual noises coming from under the hood. Look for any cracks that may be in the wind shield. Make sure there is a user manual in the glove compartment.

5

Ask the dealer when was the last time it was inspected and whether he can run a Car Fax on it. If he cannot do this for you go to a different dealership. Do not be afraid to ask too many questions.

How to Buy a Classic Jaguar

It has often been said that you need two Jaguars: one for the shop and one to drive. Finding an inexpensive Jaguar isn't all that difficult; finding one in good condition will take some patience but will be worth it in the long run.

Instructions

1

Consider an XK-120 if you want the classic Jaguar style. Built from 1949 to 1954, these cars established Jaguar as a builder of fine sports-touring cars.

2

Look into getting an E-type for one of the most stunning cars ever built. After all, this car is in the Museum of Modern Art. Available in both a coupe and convertible, the car first came with a straight 6 cylinder and later a V-12. These cars were built from 1961 to 1974. Of course, the convertible V-12 cars are the most valuable.

3

Consider an XJ-6 for what many consider to be the most elegant sedan ever built. Enjoy full leather interior and a walnut dashboard for less than the price of a Honda Civic. These cars were built from 1968 to 1987. The two-door hardtops and V-12 cars (called the XJ-12) are especially sought-after.

Honda Accord Transmission Problems

A midsize four-door sedan, the Honda Accord--since its debut in 1976--has earned a sterling reputation, partly attributed to its reliability. That does not mean that the vehicle is devoid of issues, as a few model-year entries have significant transmission problems, specifically, those with automatic gearboxes.

Stop Lamp Switch

The automatic transmission-equipped 1991, 1992 and 1993 Honda Accord--all entries of the vehicle's fourth generation of production--have a common problem with the stop lamp switch. When this component fails, the shift interlock solenoid cannot operate, preventing the gear shift selector from moving from the "Park" position.

Automatic Transmission Failure

Transmission problems are even worse for the sixth-generation Honda Accords, which were produced for the 1998 to 2002 model years. Failure of the four-speed automatic transmission is this generation's most common problem, and it affects all the five model year entries.

Cost

As of August 2010, Honda Accord owners can repair the stop lamp switch for about $52 for parts and $33 for labor. The cost to get a remanufactured automatic transmission, however, is far costlier: about $3,000, with $429 for labor.

The Specifications for a 2005 VTX 1300C

Honda made three VTX 1300 motorcycle models in 2005, the 1300R, 1300S and 1300C. These models are cruiser motorcycles with V-twin engines. The 1300R and 1300S come with floorboards while the 1300C has a more classic look with chrome fittings and a steel frame.

Engine & Transmission

The 2005 Honda VTX 1300C has a liquid-cooled 52-degree V-twin engine with a bore and stroke of 3.53 inches by 4.11 inches for total cylinder displacement of 1,312cc. The 2005 VTX1300C has a fuel capacity of 4.8 gallons including a 1.0-gallon reserve. It requires regular (87 octane) unleaded gas. Average mileage is 43.6 miles per gallon in the city and 50.2 mpg on the highway. The Honda VTX 1300c comes with a five-speed transmission and shaft final drive. It has digital ignition with three-dimensional mapping. This bike has two spark plugs per cylinder and three valves per cylinder operated via single overhead camshaft. It comes with a single 38mm CV carburetor. The VTX 1300C's engine compression ratio is 9.2 to 1.

Brakes, Wheels & Tires

Honda's 2005 VTX 1300C has single disc brakes. The front brake has two-piston calipers and the rear brake one-piston calipers. The front suspension is a 41mm fork with 5.1 inches of travel. The rear suspension is dual shocks with five-position spring-preload adjustability with 3.6 inches of travel. The Honda VTX 1300C came with aluminum wheels. The front tire has a 19-inch diameter and the back tire a 15-inch diameter. The size of the front tire is 110/90-R19 and the size of the back tire is 170/80-R15.

Exterior

The 2005 Honda VTX 1300C has a rake angle of 32 degrees. The bike's trail is 5.9 inches. Its wheelbase is 64.45 inches and seat height is 27.0 inches. The dry weight is 641.0 pounds. The 2005 Honda VTX 1300C was available in Bright Blue Metallic, Titanium, Black and Candy Red paint.

Additional Features

The Honda VTX 1300C meets California's CARB 2004 emissions standards. It comes with a one-year factory warranty. Defects in materials and workmanship are covered for the duration of the warranty. Digital instrumentation includes a fuel level warning light, a speedometer, a trip odometer and a temperature warning light.

The Highest Gas Mileage Cars Available

Evaluating fuel efficiency is an extremely smart thing to do when considering the lease or purchase of a car. Dealerships and auto salesmen will sell you on all the wonderful interior and exterior features of one car over the next. However, if you aren't factoring the miles per gallon into the purchase or lease equation, you could be throwing hundreds of dollars out the window each year.

Toyota Prius

The U.S. Department of Energy in its "2010 Fuel Economy Guide," gives the Toyota Prius the highest fuel efficiency rating of any car with 48 mpg on the highway and 51 mpg in the city. This is a full hybrid electric motor vehicle manufactured by the Toyota Motor Corporation. "U.S. News and World Report's" Rankings & Reviews ranks the 2010 Toyota Prius 4 out of 21 in the Affordable Midsize Cars category. It is also noted as having one of the smallest carbon footprints in its class and comes with seven airbags.

Honda Civic Hybrid

In the compact cars category, the Honda Civic Hybrid received a 45 mpg highway rating and a 40 mpg city rating in the U.S. Department of Energy's "2010 Fuel Economy Guide." It ranks 10 out of 32 on "U.S. News and World Report's" Rankings and Review's list of Affordable Small Cars. Features such as heated seats, leather and a voice recognition navigation system are available depending on the year and model. The 2010 model comes with four airbags.

Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Golf

With an estimated 41 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city, the Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Golf with TDI Clean Diesel engines both rank right behind the Honda Civic Hybrid in fuel efficiency. The Volkswagen Jetta ranks 11 out of 32 in the Affordable Small Cars category, according to "U.S. News and World Report's Rankings and Reviews, and the Volkswagen Golf ranks 5 out of 32 in the same category. Apart from being high-torque vehicles, the Jetta and Golf models with a TDI Clean Diesel engine also reduce sooty emissions by up to 95 percent.

Hyundai Elantra Blue

The Hyundai Elantra Blue falls right behind the Toyota Prius in the most efficient midsized vehicle category with a 35 mpg highway rating and a 26 mpg city rating. The Elantra Blue also meets demanding Ultra-Low-Emission vehicle standards, and some models even meet the Partial Zero Emission Vehicle standard, putting it in the same emissions category as the Toyota Prius. The 2010 Elantra Blue comes with six airbags: two advanced airbags in the front, two side-impact airbags mounted to the front seat and two side-curtain airbags.

How to Buy a Used Range Rover

Since it was first introduced to the United States in 1987, the Range Rover has remained a status symbol, in part, because of its high price tag. Buying used is also an option, but the Range Rover requires annual maintenance, so be prepared to spend extra each month to keep it running well.

Instructions

1

Pick a type of Range Rover. The Range Rover Classic ceased production in 1996 and the Range Rover 4.0 SE stopped in 2002. Current models still available as a new and used option include the Range Rover III and the Range Rover Sport.

2

Research any common problems associated with the make and model. For example, the Classic model had a recall done on the fuel tank and problems with the steer box. Ask the seller if the vehicle experienced any problems that required replacing.

3

Take the vehicle for a test drive. The Range Rover typically feels a little rough on the road because of its off-road suspension, but provides a smoother ride on gravel or grass. Test the car on different surfaces and make sure that everything works properly.

4

Research the history of the Range Rover through a system such as Carfax. Carfax lets you search based on the VIN number and get a complete history of the vehicle, including any accidents that involved the vehicle.

5

Check the prices on the make and model in Kelly Blue Book or another car value guide. Older models, particularly the Classic, are priced less than newer models. A Range Rover that's only a few years old is typically priced a few thousand less than a new version.

6

Look for used Range Rovers from the Range Rovers website. This site specializes in Range Rovers, including information on buying new and used vehicles. It also has its own classifieds section, listing older models starting at just a few thousand, up to nearly new models.

How to Avoid Used Car Sales Fraud

It's fun to own a new car, but brand new vehicles drop in value as soon as you drive them away from the car lot. You can get a much better bargain if you opt for a used car instead. Unfortunately you can also get taken for a lot of money because some used car dealers use fraudulent sales techniques. This can be prevented by educating yourself and knowing the most common tricks.

Instructions

1

Determine a fair price for the makes and models in which you are most interested, including common options. It is difficult for a used car dealer to defraud you on the cost of a car when you have done your research and know how much the vehicle is really worth. Start with Kelly Blue Book and then make a list of what dealerships and private sellers are asking for similar vehicles in their ads.

2

Get pre-approved financing from your own bank or credit union, Jeff Ostroff of carbuyingtips.com advises. Used car dealers often try to use the financing process to commit fraud by boosting your interest rate, which provides them with a kickback according to carinfo.com, or claiming you have bad credit and must pay more to put a warranty on the vehicle. They cannot try these tricks if you have a loan before you step onto the car lot.

3

Hire an independent mechanic to evaluate the used car's condition before you agree to purchase it. Do this even with a certified used vehicle, as the mechanics at a fraudulent dealership might not do a thorough inspection. Ostroff warns that some dealers will even try to sell previously wrecked autos as certified used cars. Refuse to buy the car if the dealer balks at letting you do this, as it probably means there is something to hide.

4

Ask the sales person or manager to put any promises in writing and refuse to complete the sale if he will not do so. A fraudulent dealer may make plenty of verbal promises, knowing they cannot be enforced. A reputable dealer will have no problem backing what he says by including it in the contract.

Tips on Car Buying in Canada

Canada has 6.7 percent of the world's land area. As such, Canada provides a significant addition to the auto purchasing options available to United States Citizens. While purchasing a vehicle in Canada is more complicated than purchasing a vehicle in the U.S., the complications may be worth the reward if you have the car you want at a price you can afford.

Find Your Car

You can search through available vehicles at dealer websites or try using a service like Canada's branch of Autotrader: www.autotrader.ca Be sure, however, to avoid new cars as these sales are restricted in Canada and the United States because of an auto trade agreement which prohibits new car sales to non-residents. When searching you'll also want to take into consideration the location of the vehicle since you'll eventually have to go there.

Investigate

After you've located your vehicle, call the seller and obtain the vehicle identification number (VIN), and then call the manufacturer to determine if the vehicle meets U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). If the vehicle complies the manufacturer will mail a letter to you certifying the vehicle.

Determine if your vehicle meets emissions guidelines as established by your particular state. Those guidelines are available at your state website for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

If the vehicle meets safety and emission standards, take one more preventative measure and consider purchasing a Car Proof report on the vehicle. Car Proof is a company that investigates the history of the vehicle linking both United States and Canadian resources. The Car Proof service will give you a comprehensive report of the vehicle registration, accident history and number of insurance claims placed.

Purchase

If the investigation of the vehicle proves promising, the next step is the actual purchase. Be prepared to pay for the entire car up front or arrange for financing in the U.S. The good news is that if you can prove that you are a non-resident, you will only have to pay a portion of the usual Canadian sales taxes. When the sale is complete make sure the dealer provides you with a complete bill of sale.

Finally, you can drive the car to the border. A customs officer will ask for the bill of sale and your name and the VIN number of the vehicle. Then pay U.S. taxes on the purchase before crossing the border.

Tips to Get the Best Price on a New Car

Buying a new car can be overwhelming for many car shoppers. Car dealers use many tricks and sales tactics to squeeze profit out of every deal--and sometimes they are successful. Don't let shopping for a new car wear you down; learn tips to get the best price on a new car.

Wait to have your trade appraised

Get your price first--before you have your trade appraised. Throwing a trade-in vehicle in the mix can help the dealer fudge the numbers, leaving you unsure of what you are actually paying for the vehicle or getting for your trade-in.

Trade over-allowance means a dealer is showing you more for your trade than what it is worth, and simply taking the profit out of the deal. This is done to discourage customers when they shop other dealer's quotes--another dealer's price may be lower, but their offer for the trade is too.

Waiting to have your trade-in appraised will ensure you are dealing with real numbers and not inflated ones.

Be wary of dealer add-ons

Don't be fooled by shady dealer add-ons, such as rustproofing, fabric guard or theft recovery. Most of these items provide little benefit to you and lots of profit for the dealer.

Pay attention to the number on the vehicle's actual MSRP sticker--not the dealer-added sticker attached next to it, unless the add-on is a legitimate one, such as a DVD player or a spoiler. Even then, you should pay attention to the price of the option. If the addition is overpriced, negotiate with the dealer or choose another vehicle.

How to Order a New Ford From the Factory

So, you paid a visit to your local Ford dealer and want to drive away in a brand-new Ford car or truck, but they didn't have exactly what you want. Not to worry, within six to eight weeks, you can have your brand-new Ford with exactly the options you want, in the exact color combination, sitting in your driveway, ready for waxing every weekend. All it takes is a bit of research, and a visit to your local Ford dealer to start the process.

Instructions

1

Go online, and build and price your new Ford. Build out the options, color combinations and trim level you want.

2

Check online sites to see what the current market value is for the vehicle you want. Be sure to include all of the options you want when looking up the vehicle's local market pricing.

3

Visit FordVehicles.com to check for current lease, financing or cash-back offers available for the specific model you want to order.

4

Visit your local dealership, and test drive and touch the actual vehicle you want. If you're ordering, the dealership probably won't have exactly what you want, but make sure to drive something that's close to what you plan on ordering.

5

Negotiate the selling price of your ordered vehicle with a salesperson. Also, ask about available lease and financing options available at the time of ordering.

6

Sit back, and wait for your car to arrive. The usual turn around time for an ordered Ford vehicle is six to eight weeks, but this time frame varies based on the vehicle you order and your location.

7

Buy the car when the it comes into the dealership. The dealership isn't obligated to hold your ordered vehicle for you, and they'll sell it to another buyer if you aren't available.

Advice on How to Buy a Secondhand Car

Buying a used car can cost you more money than the car is worth. To prevent future headaches, research, take your time and know your options before you make a purchase.

Budgeting

Figure out your budget before shopping. Obtain a preapproval from a lender to verify your interest rate and price limit. Use an auto loan calculator to figure out payments. Talk with your insurance agent about adding full-coverage insurance (required if using a lender).

Research

Check the NADA and Edmunds websites to determine fair values and to review reliability ratings. Purchase a vehicle history report, and if the car has had an accident, take it to a mechanic. Do pay full value for vehicles previously registered as a rental car. Accurate gas mileage ratings can be accessed at FuelEconomy.gov, and safety test results can be found at SaferCar.gov.

Time Frame

Take your time shopping. If you're unfamiliar with vehicle makes and models, test drive your possibilities. Talk to your mechanic, friends and family for recommendations. A preapproval takes several days, so have one before you start test driving cars. An approval is usually good for 30 days.

How to Read Used Car Classified Ads

Classified advertisements for used cars are filled with mysterious abbreviations that can be daunting to a first-time buyer.

Instructions

1

Figure out the type of vehicle it is by checking out these abbreviations. LB: long-bed pickup truck; P/U: pickup truck; XTRA CAB: two small seats or extra room behind the front seats in a pickup truck; WGN: station wagon; HB: hatchback.

2

Find out what kind of shape the car's in when you read these abbreviations. EX COND: excellent condition; G COND: good condition; CLN: clean (in good shape).

3

Know what extras it has with these abbreviations. CASS: stereo system with a cassette tape player; CD: stereo system with a CD player; LTHR: leather interior; LOADED: has all extras and options; MNRF: moonroof/sunroof; S/R or SNRF: sunroof; CONV: convertible top; A/C: air conditioning.

4

Understand how many wheels are being employed when you see the following. FWD: front-wheel drive; RWD: rear-wheel drive; 2 WD: two-wheel drive; 4 WD: four-wheel drive; OD: overdrive; PS: power steering; ABS: anti-lock braking system.

5

Get a good sense of the engine from these notations. CID: cubic inches displacement, which indicates engine size; CC: cubic centimeters, which indicates engine size; DOHC: direct overheat camshaft; EFI: fuel injection; ENG: engine; 3/4/5/6/8 CYL: number of cylinders the engine has; MPG: miles per gallon.

6

Determine if it's standard or automatic transmission by reviewing the following. STD: standard transmission (stick shift); TRANS: transmission; A/T: automatic transmission; 4 SP(D): four-speed manual transmission; 5 SP(D): five-speed manual transmission (has overdrive); 2/4 DR: two or four doors.

7

Consider the price when you see these notes. K: thousands of miles or dollars; BO: best offer; OBO: or best offer. BO and OBO indicate that you can negotiate the price.

Florida Laws on Auto Purchases

Florida laws on auto purchases outline the rules manufacturers and dealership must follow when conducting business in the state. Consumers interested in purchasing new or used vehicle should become familiar with consumer protection regulations related to purchasing an automobile. The laws provide car buyers with reliable avenues for redress on defective vehicles.

Florida Lemon Law

Florida's lemon law, or the Motor Vehicle Sales Warranties Act, has arbitration boards throughout the state. These boards have the authority to hear and settle complaints between automobile owners and vehicle manufacturers. Owners may bring complaints up to two years after the delivery date of the vehicle. Owner then have 60 days to file an arbitration request with the Division of Consumer Services. Consumers may obtain a refund or have the vehicle replaced.

Lemon Law Eligibility

The Motor Vehicle Sales Warranties Act covers new cars and demos. The owner must have purchased or leased the vehicle in Florida and have a defect that has a major impact on its use, value or safety. The dealership or manufacturer must make at least three attempts to fix the same problem or defect. The vehicle qualifies as a lemon if inoperable for at least 15 consecutive days. The owner must deliver by certified mail a Motor Vehicle Defect Notification. This form should be in the Lemon Law Handbook received when purchasing the vehicle. The owner should also have documentation on the repairs.

Hearings

A ruling in favor of the vehicle owner may result in a refund of the purchase price and other expenses. The manufacturer could receive an order to replace the vehicle. Both awards will subtract a reasonable cost for usage. The law allows either party to appeal the Arbitration Board's decision. If the manufacturer files a "bad faith" appeal, the judge may award the vehicle owner two or three times the actual damages.

Used Cars

Florida does not have a lemon law for used cars. However, dealers must adhere to the Federal Trade Commission requirements for used car dealers to affix a Buyers' Guide to the window of each vehicle for sale. The guide must list items covered in the warranty or indicate the vehicle is being sold "as is," without any guarantees. The buyer has a right to an independent inspection. Transactions conducted in Spanish require Buyer's Guides translated in Spanish.

Even if auto dealers directly disclaim all warranties, the Implied Warranty of Merchantability and the Implied Warranty of Fitness still exist. The Merchantability Warranty states that the vehicle works the way it supposes to function. Fitness refers to the buyer's reliance on the advice of the dealer that the vehicle would work out for a specific use. File complaints with the Florida Attorney General Office.

1995 Honda Civic LX Specifications

Honda debuted the Civic in 1973. Since then, Honda has released many variations that would meet any of the consumer's needs, such as the Honda Civic LX. In 1995, the Civic LX sold for a MSRP price of $13,410 and came with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty.

Performance

The 1995 Honda Civic LX has a 1.5-litre I-4 102-horsepower engine. It comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive and is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. It gets 34 miles per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway.

Interior, Comfort, and Conveniences

The 5-passenger Civic LX has bucket front seats and a full rear seat. It has an AM/FM clock stereo with a cassette player. It comes standard with cruise control, power door locks, light tinted power windows and variable intermittent front wipers. It also has driver and passenger side airbags.

Exterior

The bumpers on the 4-door Civic LX are body-colored. It has blackbody moldings and dual power remote exterior mirrors. The tires are P175/65SR14.0BSW AS. It has front disc and rear drum anti-lock brakes. Additionally, it has a front anti-roll bar.

1999 Mitsubishi Montero Consumer Auto Information

The 1999 Mitsubishi Montero was the next to the last model year for the second generation of Mitsubishi Motors' four-wheel-drive, mid-size SUV. Because Mitsubishi never sold many in the United States, the company only offered the 1999 Montero in one trim level, instead of the previously offered four.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

The 1999 Mitsubishi Montero came with a 3.5-liter, 200-horsepower V-6 engine with 235 foot-pounds of torque. The standard transmission was a four-speed automatic with overdrive. The rated mileage figures for the 1999 Montero was 16 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 19 mpg for highway driving. It had a 24-gallon gas tank.

Safety Features

The standard safety features of the 1999 Mitsubishi Montero included power/child safety door locks, driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes. Similar components, such as vehicle anti-theft system, traction control and keyless entry were not available.

Interior

The interior of the 1999 Mitsubishi Montero was designed to accommodate up to seven people. Features included air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, tilt steering wheel with mounted controls, and a stereo system with AM/FM radio and cassette deck. Upholstery was offered in cloth or leather, with gray and tan as color options.

Exterior

The 1999 Mitsubishi Montero had 16-inch alloy wheels, a wheelbase of 107 inches and a turning diameter of 39 feet. The curb weight was 4,520 pounds, and the vehicle measured 187 inches in length, 70 inches in height and 75 inches in height with an 8-inch ground clearance. With its lower part painted Munich Silver Metallic, the upper colors of the '99 Montero included Anchorage Gray Metallic, Black Sea Green Pearl, Cambridge Red Pearl, Navajo Green Pearl, Sudan Beige Metallic and Summit White.

Price

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 1999 Mitsubishi Montero was $31,370. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price value range of the SUV at around $6,800 to $7,400.

How to Customize Escape Hybrids

The Ford Escape Hybrid debuted in 2005 as the first hybrid sport utility vehicle on the market and the first first hybrid vehicle from a U.S.-based automaker. The Escape Hybrid is visually identical to its fully gasoline-powered counterpart and offers all of its utility while also providing an environmentally friendly vehicle. The Escape Hybrid actually delivers the same fuel efficiency of the four-cylinder model while delivering power ratings equivalent to that of the V-6 model. The Ford Motor Company's official website offers a user-friendly tool for those wondering how to customize the options in the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Instructions

1

Visit the official website of Ford Motor Company by going to ford.com. Wait for the page to fully load.

2

Look near the top of the page and observe the bar showing the different bodystyles of vehicles offered by Ford. Click on the link that reads "Crossovers & SUVs" which will bring down a menu displaying all of this type of vehicle manufactured by Ford.

3

Click on the image of the Ford Escape which will bring you to the official Ford Escape webpage.

4

Look to the right side of the Escape's page and click on the link that says "Build & Price."

5

Click on the "Build Your Own" link presented to you. You will be asked to enter your ZIP code. Do so and click continue.

6

Choose the Escape Hybrid from the technology selection screen to let the website know that you are looking to customize a hybrid version of the Escape and not the gasoline-only model.

7

Choose which model of Escape Hybrid you would like. Once you have selected between the Base and Limited models you will then be presented with a submenu that allows you to choose between two and four-wheel drive. Choose which drivetrain option you prefer.

8

Choose the orange button that reads "Continue to Exterior" in order to choose exterior options. Choose optional accessories such as side steps and sunroof and your preferred wheel style.

9

Design the interior of your car by hitting the orange "Continue to Interior" button. Choose the interior options such as radio type, seating selection and entertainment packages that suit your needs.

10

Hit the "Continue to Accessories" button to advance to the selections of final trim pieces that accent your Escape Hybrid. Examples of optional accessories include items such as cargo area protectors, splash guards and keyless entry keypad.

11

Hit the button that now reads "Continue to Summary" to view a detailed build sheet of the Escape Hybrid you have customized.

12

You can now either hit "Get Internet Price" or "Search Inventory."

Specifications for a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500

The 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 was one of the early model-year entries for the third generation of production of the half-ton, full-size pickup truck. The three trims availablein ascending orderare the ST, SLT and Laramie, each with different combinations of bed sizes and options between the two/rear-wheel (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD).

Engines, Transmissions and Fuel Economy

The standard engine on the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 is a 4.7-liter, 240-horsepower V8 with 300 foot-pounds of torque and a compression ratio of 9.3 to 1. The ST and SLT trims have a five-speed manual transmission while the Laramie trims have a five-speed automatic. With a 26-gallon gas tank, the '03 Dodge Ram 1500 gets 12 to 16 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 16 to 21 mpg for highway driving, depending on the trim.

Interior

Depending on the trim combination, the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 is large enough to seat up to three or six people. The interior of the truck measure 41 inches in front head room and leg room, 67 inches in front shoulder room and 65 inches in front hip room. Air conditioning and AM/FM radio are some of the standard interior features in the '03 Dodge Ram 1500, with the higher-end trims getting other features such as cruise control, leather seats and steering wheel, and CD player.

Exterior

While the Short Bed trucks of the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 have two doors, the Long Bed combinations have four. The curb weight, wheel base, vehicle length and cargo bed length of the vehicle differ from one trim to another, ranging from 4,500 to 5,200 pounds, 121 to 161 inches, 208 to 250 inches, and 76 to 98 inches, respectively. The trims, however, share the same width of 80 inches, height of 74 inches and ground clearance of 8 inches. The size of the wheels is 17 inches, with the Laramie trims possessing alloy ones.

Safety, Braking and Handling

The 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 has driver and passenger airbags, and the Laramie trims also feature keyless entry. The truck has front ventilated disc and rear drum brakes, with anti-lock braking applied to all trims except for the Laramie Quad Cab Short Bed 4WD and Laramie Quad Cab Long Bed 4WD. The suspension consists of a front wishbone design with stabilizer bar and torsion springs, and a rear beam design with leaf springs. The turning diameter range is 39 to 52 feet, depending on trim.

Price Range

Due to the several trim combinations of the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500, the manufacturer's suggested retail price range was very widefrom $18,735 for the ST Short Bed 2WD to $35,310 for the Laramie Quad Cab Long Bed 4WD. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price value range of the '03 Ram 1500 at around $8,000 to $11,000.