How to Save Money by Buying a Two to Three-Year-Old Car

Buying a car is usually an expensive process, but you can save some money if you buy a used car. If the car is only two to three years old and the owner kept the car in good condition, you can knock as much as a few thousand dollars off the price and come out on top with a like-new vehicle. Unfortunately, it is difficult to avoid feeling a little suspicious of sellers' motives. You can't help but wonder why some sell their cars so soon after purchasing them. That's why you should take a few precautions when you purchase a used car.

Instructions

1

Find a car in your area that you have an interest in purchasing. Check the year on the vehicle to ensure it is no more than two or three years old. Double-check the year of the vehicle when you see it in person just in case the current owner isn't entirely sure of the car's age.

2

Research the brand of the car you have an interest in buying. Some brands have a higher safety rating and better gas mileage than other brands. Since the car is already two or three years old, you should be able to locate some consumer reviews of the vehicle by actual consumers instead of people paid by the car company.

3

Call the current owner of the vehicle and ask for the VIN number. Using the VIN number on the car, you can check its repair history to see what wrecks and other damage the car has suffered. These car reports cost a nominal fee, but they can tell you about the repairs done on the vehicle as well as the past accidents.

4

Inspect the vehicle yourself. Check for interior damage, and take the opportunity to chat with the current owner as to why he or she is selling the vehicle. Take the car for a quick test drive as well to see if it handles properly and sounds healthy.

5

Bargain down the price with the current owner if the car seems worth buying. Don't offer something like $2,000 when the owner is asking something along the lines of $10,000. Try to keep your offer reasonable and haggle with the owner if the opportunity arises.

How to Negotiate the Price of a New Car From a Dealership

The decision to buy a new car should not be made lightly. No matter what make and model you choose, the new car is going to be a significant investment. Once you find the dealership you want to buy from and the new car that you want to purchase, the next step is negotiating the price of the vehicle. Unless the dealership specifically advertises as a no-haggle dealership, you can often negotiate to get a better price.

Instructions

1

Figure out what the car you're negotiating for is actually worth. You can check new car prices through online resources, such as Edmunds.com or Kelley Blue Book, or you can check the manufacturer's website.

2

Negotiate face to face. As long as you're confident and knowledgeable, a face-to-face negotiation will show the dealership that you're serious about the price you want and that you've done your homework.

3

Stick to your price. If the car is worth several thousand dollars less than the actual value, let the dealership know what you want to pay. Don't bring out your maximum price right away. Give them room to negotiate.

4

Prepare to walk out and mean it. A salesperson at a dealership will be able to tell if you will really walk out or if you're bluffing. Don't get your heart set on one car. Be prepared to walk away without the price you want.

5

Talk about financing terms in addition to the total cost of the car. Financing terms include length of the loan, monthly payments and interest rate. Altering these amounts will change the overall price of the car. If possible, get a financing quote from a few local banks or financial institutions. If you can find better terms than the dealership is offering, then you will have more negotiating power.

GM Specifications for the 1991 Cadillac Deville

Cadillac--a luxury vehicle marque that General Motors owns--sold the full-size passenger car, the DeVille, between 1949 and 2005. The 1991 model-year entry appeared during the vehicle's sixth generation of production, with two more generations destined to occur. It was available in two trims: a coupe and a sedan.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

The 1991 Cadillac DeVille had a 4.9-liter V-8 engine with 200-horsepower and 275 foot-pounds of torque, a 4-inch bore, a 3-inch stroke and a compression ratio of 9 to 1. The transmission was a 4-speed automatic with overdrive. With an 18-gallon gas tank, the '91 DeVille got 16 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 26 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

The cabin of the 1991 Cadillac DeVille was big enough to accommodate six people. Depending on the body style, headroom was measured at between 38 and 40 inches, leg room between 40 and 44 inches, shoulder room between 57 and 59 inches, and hip room between 52 and 53 inches. The sedan had a slightly bigger interior than the coupe. Air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and a stereo system with cassette deck were some of the standard features of the '91 DeVille.

Exterior

The 1991 Cadillac Sedan DeVille was slightly larger than the coupe. The sedan was 206 inches long, 73 inches wide and 55 inches high with a 114-inch wheelbase and a curb weight of 3,591 pounds. The coupe was 204 inches long, 73 inches wide and 55 inches long with a 111-inch wheelbase and a curb weight of 3,519 pounds. Both had 15-inch alloy wheels.

Safety and Handling

The 1991 Cadillac DeVille had a driver's airbag, anti-lock brakes and power door locks. The car had front and rear independent suspension. With rack-and-pinion steering, the sedan had a turning diameter of 40 feet while that of the coupe was 39 feet.

Price

The coupe and sedan versions of the 1991 Cadillac DeVille shared the same original manufacturer's suggested retail price: $30,455. Over the years, however, the sedan has held its value better than the coupe. As of May, 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price range of the '91 DeVille sedan at $3,000 to $3,400. The coupe, meanwhile, is estimated at $2,900 to $3,400.

About the Kawasaki 600

The 2011 Mule 600 is a compact off-road utility vehicle manufactured by Kawasaki. With seating for two, the vehicle can be used in a variety of locations including farms and construction sites and fits easily into the bed of a full-size pickup truck for easy transport.

Engine

The 2011 Kawasaki Mule 600 comes standard with a 401 cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with an overhead valve for efficient running capabilities and good fuel economy.

Towing

The off-road vehicle can tow up to 1,100 lbs. if an optional trailer hitch is installed.

Cargo Bed

The cargo bed of the 2011 Mule 600 can carry a maximum weight of up to 400 lbs. and has tilting capabilities for easy offloading.

Body

Available in dark royal red, the rugged vehicle measures in at 108.8 inches in length, 52.6 inches in width and 70.1 inches in height with a wheelbase of 70 inches.

MSRP

As of December 2010, the manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 2011 Kawasaki Mule 600 is $6699.

Dodge Cummins Specs

The Cummins Engine Company was founded in Columbus, Indiana, in 1919. Dodge began using the Cummins B-Series 5.9L diesel engine it its 1989 Ram pickup trucks, marking a true medium-duty diesel engine available in a light-duty truck for the first time. Other vehicles had used diesel engines prior to that, but they were much smaller and less powerful. Dodge continues to use Cummins diesel engines in its heavy-duty Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 pickup trucks today.

The First Dodge Cummins Diesel Engines

The Cummins engines Dodge used from 1989 to 1994 used a single 804 CPL, were not air cooled and had a peak boost pressure of 22 to 25psi. These engines peaked at 2,5000 rpm, used a Bosch VE rotary injection pump that often maxed out at 220 to 230 hp.

1998 and the Interact System B-Series

In 1998, Cummins introduced a new 5.9L pushrod-operated, non-adjustable engine with four-valve cylinders. This engine was part of the Interact System B-Series, and Dodge used it in the 1998 Ram 2500 and the Ram 3500. It was a 230hp, in-line, six-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder in a 24-valve OHV configuration. It had a 5,883cc displacement, a bore and stroke of 4.02 inches by 4.72 inches and a compression ratio of 17.5:1. It produced a maximum torque of 450 lb.-ft. at 1,400 rpm.

2010 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500 with Cummins Diesel Engine

Dodge redesigned the Ram series for 2010 but continued to use Cummins diesel engines in the Ram 2500 and 3500. The Cummins used in the 2010 Dodge Ram is a 6.7L 350hp I6 with a 24-valve/OHV configuration, a 6,690cc displacement, a bore and stroke of 4.21 inches by 4.88 inches and a compression ration of 17.3:1. It has a maximum torque of 650 lb.-ft. at 1,500 rpm.

A five-speed automatic overdrive transmission is standard with 2010 Ram 2500s and Ram 3500s with the 6.7L Cummins engine, but six-speed automatic overdrive transmissions and six-speed manual overdrive transmissions are available options.

How to Buy a Used Car in the U.S.A.

Buying a used car challenges even the most bargain-savvy person. It is an art form that brings you head-to-head with an adversarial negotiator trying to get the highest price for the car you want to buy. Achieving a bargain requires extensive research on the availability of cars, prices and conditions. While the process can be exhausting, it also can reward you with a dependable car at a bargain price.

Instructions

1

Research what is available. Search online resources, such as Auto Trader, Kelley Blue Book, Craigslist, eBay, online newspaper ads and dealer inventory. You can browse print ads as well, but you will probably get more results, quicker, online. Filter the results based on your needs, such as a specific car, type, year and mileage.

2

Inspect the cars in person and look for defects, such as chipped or faded paint, bald tires, dents or a cracked windshield. Test drive the vehicle and listen for unusual noises. If you are unfamiliar with car mechanics, bring along a knowledgeable friend who is better equipped to identify problems indicated by sound or "feel." While inspecting, write down the Vehicle Identification Number, usually located at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, although locations may vary.

3

Check the car's value on Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. Be sure to enter the mileage, condition and add-ons. These resources will give you several options, including retail price, trade-in price and private-party sales. Retail price is what you would expect to pay at a dealership. Trade-in is what the dealership might offer for a trade-in. Private-party is the price when dealing with individuals.

4

Look up the VIN number on CARFAX. This will give you insight on the history of the car, including the number of owners, accidents, commercial use and sometimes maintenance. This information also will help validate the seller's sales pitch.

5

Negotiate the price. You should now know the car's value, condition and history, so use this information to derive the price you are comfortable paying. Start low in the negotiation and work up. The first price is rarely accepted. Do not be afraid to walk away. Potentially losing a sale is a powerful motivator for the seller.

6

Transfer the title. If you are buying from a dealership, they will likely handle all of this for you. In private party sales, the transfer instructions are usually printed on the back of the title, but normally involve signing the title over to the buyer. Be sure to get a receipt or contract showing payment.

7

Register your recently purchased car at the DMV. Be sure to bring the title and receipt. Depending on your state's requirements, you may need to pay sales and/or property tax. The DMV will instruct you about these taxes, if applicable, and possibly send you to another office for payment. Once paid, the process is complete.

The Difference Between Ford F250 & F350 Pickups

The F-series is Ford's line of pickup truck. The F-series ranges from the F-150 light pickup to the F-750, which is used for much heavier workloads. The F-250 and F-350 are frequently used as both fleet trucks and personal vehicles. Though these trucks are in the same class and are similar in many ways, they do have major differences.

Size and Weight

The two trucks are similar in size. On comparable models, they both have the same wheelbase, length, width, height and ground clearance. The F-350's curb weight of 5,815 lb. is 189.6 lb. heavier then the F-250. Other than weight, comparable Super Duty models have no size difference.

Engine

Both F-series trucks offer a 5.4-L V8 engine as the standard option. The F-350 offers a different engine option -- a V10 engine with more power. The 6.8-L V10 offers 362 horsepower, compared with the V8's 300 horsepower. The V10 produces 457 foot-lb. of torque, compared with 365 foot-lb. from the V8. The larger engine allows the driver to pull loads more efficiently with less strain on the motor and frame.

Suspension

The F-350 offers an upgraded suspension over the F-250. The spacers located under the rear suspension are larger than on the F-250. The rear leaf springs are also slightly larger. These features allow the F-350 to have a significantly higher gross vehicle weight rating. The F-250 is capable of towing up to 12,500 lb., whereas the F-350 can tow of up to 18,700 lb.

Price Tag

The F-350's greater towing capacity carries a higher price tag. According to Ford's website, the F-250 had a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $28,505 at the time of publication; the F-350's price was $29,225. The prices between the two can differ greatly after the addition of optional features.

How to Buy a Used Car in Germany

You can buy a used car in Germany from a private owner or a dealer. While you may be able to get a car for a lower price from a private owner, you will only get a warranty offer from a dealer. Dealers may also offer financing for a used car purchase. Buying a used car in Germany can be as daunting as it is in the United States. Remember that all legal documents will be written in German when you make the purchase.

Instructions

1

Decide if you want to purchase your used car from a dealer or from a private owner. For dealer used cars, search on sites such as AutoScout24.com. Look for privately-owned used cars in German newspapers, such as the Frankfurter Rundschau.

2

Secure financing if you are not paying the balance in full for the used car. Look for cars that are not too old, have a good resale value and low mileage. Some dealers and banks offer used car financing. Once you locate a dealer ask about their used car financing policies. You can also check with your local bank in Germany. The best financing rate is typically available with 20 percent down.

3

Inquire at a dealer about purchasing a demo model, known as Jahreswagens or Vorfhrwagens. Jahreswagen vehicles have been owned for a year or less by an employee of the car manufacturers. Vorfhrwagen vehicles have been showroom and test drive cars. These types of vehicles can typically be had for good prices.

4

Check and verify the details of the used car you are interested in buying. The important things to verify are the number of previous owners, type of catalytic converter, mileage, date of first registration, model year and date of the next inspection. Pay special attention to these things when buying from a private owner.

5

Prepare for the purchase with proof of insurance. If you are purchasing from a dealer you will need to show them proof of insurance from a current insurance policy, or sign up for insurance in front of them, so that they can obtain your registration and license plates. If you are buying from a private owner take your proof of insurance and your sales contract to the local motor vehicle department, or Kfz-Zulassungstelle, to get your registration and license plates.

How to Lease a Toyota

Leasing a Toyota is easier than ever with information readily available for consumers over the Internet. You can do all of your Toyota research, pricing and negotiating all from the comfort of your home or office computer. Sooner than later you to can be on the road in your new Toyota lease yelling out the window, "I love what you do for me, Toyota!"

Instructions

Getting into a new Toyota lease

1

Do you research for your new Toyota lease. Find the right model that works best for you. Take a look at different options available and trim levels that would best suit your needs. Visit a Toyota dealership and take a look at the vehicle(s) you are interested in leasing. Take a look at available color combinations that are available while you are on the lot to take the guess work out of visualizing a vehicle from a paint chip in a brochure or on a website.

2

Find out about all available incentives and rebates currently being offered from Toyota. Check to see if there are programs such as down-payment assistance (where the manufacturer actually pays for the drive off costs of your lease), cash incentives to help lower the selling price of the vehicle, and other such programs that will make the lease even more attractive.

You can visit sites like http://www.edmunds.com or http://www.cars.com to find out about current vehicle incentives, what the vehicles are selling for in your market and other useful bits of information that will help you be a more informed buyer.

3

Email several Internet Sales Managers at local dealers and as them to send you a lease proposal. Be specific yet open at the same time when requesting your quotes. Tell them the terms you are looking for, 36-month lease with 10,000 miles per year and maintenance included, but also try to give some leeway on the vehicle. For example ask to have quotes sent on the vehicle you want with the options but just not black or red--try to keep you colors open so that you are not limiting your options.

4

Once you've received all of your quotes, choose the one that best suits your needs. One that is the closest to the color you like and to the numbers you are expecting to pay for your vehicle. Call your salesperson and schedule a day and time for you to come in and finalize everything. Ask to have the vehicle ready before your get there, a full tank of gas and a full detail, so that you can check it for any imperfections before you sign your lease.

5

Go down to the Toyota dealership and take it out for one last test drive to make sure everything is the way it should be on your new car. Sign all of your paperwork and go home happy knowing that you got yourself a great deal because you put in a little bit of effort to do the research needed to get you into your new Toyota lease.

How to Break in a New Truck Engine

Break-in periods for vehicles used to be much longer than they are today, often exceeding 1,000 miles. Today, the recommended break-in period for many cars and trucks is 500 miles. Following proper break-in procedures can extend the life of your truck's engine. The following recommendations apply to new Dodge, Ford and Chevrolet trucks.

Instructions

1

Do not tow a trailer or any other cargo carrier during the first 500 miles. Your internal engine components are not properly lubricated to handle the stress of towing. You should also avoid carrying heavy loads of cargo in the bed.

2

Do not exceed 50 mph during your first 500 miles of towing. This should be observed whether you truck has 2,000 miles on it or 20,000. Stay at speeds between 40 and 50 mph to prevent long-term damage.

3

Go easy on the accelerator during the first 500 miles. Take extra precautions not to spin your tires or make full-throttle starts after you come to a stop. Stay at a variable speed while on the highway or interstate. Adjust your speed by 10 to 15 mph every 15 to 20 minutes.

4

Avoid hard braking if possible during the first 200 miles. Not only will this reduce wear and tear on your engine, it will prevent damage to your brake pads. This should also be observed after new brake pads are installed.

5

Do not exceed a top speed of 55 mph for the first 500 miles to prevent excessive wear and tear on your engine.

What Makes a New Car Smell?

The next time you're in a new car and inhale to enjoy that new car smell, you might want to hold your breath and open the windows instead. That scent is probably built-up toxins released by the synthetic materials in the car.

What You Smell

A Greenguard Environmental Institute (GEI) study measured the levels of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) in the interior of three new cars. VOCs are gases released from the plastics, adhesives, sealants and other materials used in new cars, and include a variety of chemicals. The study found more than 100 different chemicals in the cars, including formaldehyde, benzene and acetic acid. The car that sat on the lot the longest had the highest levels of VOCs.

Health Effects

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, these chemicals may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs irritate the eyes, nose and throat and cause headaches, nausea, and damage to the liver, kidneys and central nervous system. Some of them can cause cancer. Children are more vulnerable to VOCs because they breathe in more air relative to their size.

Remedies

Keep your windows open for ventilation, especially during hot weather, and try to minimize your child's exposure to a new car interior until it has had a chance to air out.

MD Vehicle Safety Inspection Requirements

Maryland law requires that most used vehicles must be inspected for safety before transferring the title. The seller is usually required to provide the inspection certificate, according to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. Exceptions include class E trucks, class F truck tractors and class G freight trailers. It is possible to obtain a 30-day temporary registration if you have not yet received an inspection.

Mechanical

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration determines mechanical components of the vehicle inspection to include the suspension, brakes, motor mounts, emissions system, electrical system, fuel system, exhaust, motor mounts, universal and CV joints, and the gear shift indicator. A computerized engine analysis and road test are often used to for the inspection. Inspections may be performed by an authorized inspection station in Maryland, and it is advisable to choose a shop that you trust. Most service departments at dealerships will also perform safety inspections, according to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. There are about 1600 licensed inspection stations in the State of Maryland. If the vehicle does not pass inspection, a list of necessary repairs will be provided to you. If you have repairs completed within 30 days of the initial inspection and the vehicle has been driven less than 1,000 miles, only the defective components need to be re-inspected.

Safety

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration indicates that safety components of a vehicle inspection include tires, steering system, glass, lights, wheel alignment, mirrors, wipers, speedometer and odometer, safety belts and door handle latches. Hitches and emergency brakes are included in the inspection of trailers. If you purchase a vehicle from a private seller, and he will not permit you to take the vehicle for inspection, you may suggest that he goes with you for the inspection. Some shops will go to the location of the vehicle to perform the inspection, according to the Unofficial DMV Guide. If you purchase your vehicle from a dealer, the inspection should have already been performed, and a copy of the inspection certificate should be affixed to the window of the vehicle.

Body/Appearance

The body of the vehicle is inspected in the area of the bumpers, fenders, hood catches, floor, trunk pans and the driver's seat. Other items inspected on motorcycles include the passenger foot rest and hand hold, the seat, chain and guard, and the stand. Inspection stations are typically authorized to perform inspections of passenger cars, light truck and SUVs up to 10,000 pounds and trailers up to 20 feet long, provided that they do not have air brakes. A safety inspection will usually take about one and a half hours. The mechanic will provide you with the inspection certificate for presentation to the Motor Vehicle Administration, provided that the vehicle meets all of the standards determined by Maryland.

How to Rate a New Car

There are many aspects of buying a car to consider when rating a car--from price to performance. The Internet can be a helpful resource for comparing different makes and models, though it is certainly not the same as being in a car and driving it yourself. In order to rate a car you will want to use the Internet to gather research already done, as well as do your own research.

Instructions

1

Know the make and model of the car you are rating. If you want to compare cars, then have the category of the vehicle narrowed down, such as sedan, SUV, etc.

2

Go to ConsumerReports.org and set up an account, if you are willing to pay a fee. This site will allow you to gather and compare various ratings, from fuel economy to owner satisfaction to GPS and other electronic systems. Decide which categories are most important to you. If you need to save money, there are many good alternative free websites. Go to Edmunds.com. You can search New Car Inventory and also compare numerous categories using this website.

3

Go for a test drive. Having gathered a good deal of base knowledge from your online research, you will be in good shape to go to a dealership, meet with a car salesman, and test drive the car you are interested in. Taking the car for a test drive will allow you to see if you feel comfortable in the car and rate how it drives.

2008 Jetta TDI Performance

The 2008 Volkswagen Jetta appeared during the fifth generation of production for the compact car. Two diesel engines were available for the car--the higher-end one was a turbocharged, direct injection, inline, four-cylinder engine. Of the 2008 Jetta trims, only the top-level GTI (available as a coupe as well as a sedan) and the limited-production Wolfsburg Edition came equipped with this particular engine.

Manufacture

The TDI engine of the 2008 Jetta was paired with a six-speed manual transmission. It was the only trim that got such a gearbox; the others got either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic). Other features included 17-inch alloy wheels and an all-independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and multi-link design in the rear. The Wolfsburg trim was the heaviest of the TDI vehicles, followed by the GTI sedan, then the GTI coupe.

Engine and Fuel Economy

The TDI engine of the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta produced 200 horses at 5,100 revolutions per minute. It also generated 207 foot-pounds of torque at 1,800 rpm. By comparison, the other engine--a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder--produced 170 horses at 5,000 rpm and 177 foot-pounds of torque at 3,750 rpm. Fuel economy for the 2008 Jetta TDI was 21 miles per gallon for city driving and 29 mpg for highway driving.

Driving and Handling

Equipped with the TDI engine, the GTI and Wolfsburg Edition of the 2008 Jetta could go from zero to 60 mph in a six seconds. By comparison, the other trims could accomplish that about two seconds slower. The TDI engine-equipped trims, however, shared the same turning diameter as the others at 36 feet.

Reception

Car critics praised the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta TDI as being a practical, well-balanced car. Staff writers at Cars.com awarded this version of the vehicle high marks for its combination of high performance, such as satisfactory handling and minimal body lean, with luxury features such as alloy wheels and smooth, quiet driving. Automotive.com proclaimed it the best-handling front-wheel drive car the German automaker had produced.

Price

The 2008 Volkswagen Jetta Wolfsburg Edition had an original manufacturer's suggested retail price of $20,875. The coupe and sedan versions of the 2008 GTI had MSRPs of $22,800 and $23,300, respectively. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price of the 2008 Wolfsburg Edition around $16,000 and the GTI from $18,200 to $18,800.

Washington State Used Car 'As Is' Consumer Protection Law

Washington state law protects consumers from dealers that sell defective vehicles. Even with an As-Is sticker, a car must be safe and is covered under an implied warranty.

Implied Warranty

Washington state law provides a guarantee that any used car purchased from a dealer is safe to drive. Dealers are bound by an implied warranty of merchantability that lasts for a reasonable amount of time depending on the car's mileage and age.

Sticker

A Buyers Guide sticker on a vehicle that states As-Is does not cancel out the implied warranty.

Vehicle Condition

The only defects not covered by Washington's implied vehicle warranty are those specifically negotiated between the buyer and the dealer.

Waiver

A signed waiver to the implied warranty is valid only if the dealer explains the As-Is terms in detail and you agree to the terms. The parts of the car that arent covered by the implied warranty must be listed in writing on the waiver.

Private Sales

If you buy a car from a private individual, the sale truly becomes As-Is. The implied warranty of merchantability does not apply to private sales.

How to Calculate a Tax Title to License a New Car

When you buy a new car, you have to pay tax on it plus a title fee to get license plates. Some dealerships try to tack on extra costs, so you should know how to calculate your taxes and title fees on your own to avoid being swindled by unscrupulous dealers. When you buy a new car from a dealership, they will handle the paperwork, but you should look it over to be sure there aren't any hidden fees. By being an educated consumer, you can make sure that you are only paying the necessary fees on your new car.

Instructions

1

Look at the final, negotiated sales price of your new car. Ask the dealer about incentives. For example, if the state you live in taxes dealer incentives, you will have to pay tax on that extra money. If the incentive is $2,000 off the final purchase price, you still have to pay taxes on that $2,000.

2

Ask the dealer if your state gives you a sales tax break if you trade in a vehicle. If so, you will pay taxes on the difference between your new car price and the negotiated value of your trade-in.

3

Find out your state sales tax rate (see Resources). Multiply the price of your new car by the sales tax rate to get the total tax bill. For example, if the state taxes are 6 percent, and your car's taxable cost is $20,000, you need to pay $1,200 in taxes.

4

Go to your state's DMV website to find out how much a title transfer costs. Each state sets their own rates (see Resources).

How to Choose Between a 4Runner, FX35 or MDX

The Toyota 4Runner, Infiniti FX35 and Acura MDX all are Japanese sport utility vehicles. All three vehicles are available in different trim packages. Choosing which model is best depends on the priorities of the driver. Some might be primarily concerned with prices, others with styling. Price usually is a prime motivator. Before comparing vehicles, create a list of what you value in the vehicle. This will help narrow down the choices.

Instructions

1

Compare prices. The base model 2011 4Runner has a manufacturer's standard retail price of $30,305. The base model 2011 FX35 has a MSRP of $42,600. The base model 2011 MDX has a MSRP of $42,930. Both the FX35 and the MDX are priced approximately $12,000 more than the 4Runner. This is a significant price difference. This in part because of the fact that the FX35 and the MDX are considered luxury SUVs, while the 4Runner is more of a utility vehicle.

2

Compare mechanical features. All three SUVs have a V6 engine. The 4Runner and FX35 are rear-wheel drive (with optional AWD,) but the MDX has all-time all-wheel drive. In terms of fuel capacity and mileage, the vehicles are similar. The 4Runner has 270 HP, the FX35 has 303 HP and the MDX has 300HP. Mechanically, the SUVs are similar. Variations do occur in the trim packages of the vehicles.

3

Compare interior options. For options, there is little to compare in the interior. Heated/Cooled seats are optional on the 4Runner and FX35, but standard on the MDX. The 4Runner is the only one with cloth seats; the other two have leather. Perhaps the biggest difference is the seating capacity. The 4Runner and FX35 have five seats, while the MDX has seven.

4

Compare the warranty. The 4Runner has a basic 3-year / 36,000 mile warranty. The FX35 has a basic 4-year / 60,000 mile warranty. The MDX has a basic 4-year / 50,000 mile warranty.

5

Test drive the vehicle. There is no better way to determine which vehicle is the correct one than by test driving it. Inspect the vehicle and see how it feels. There are some things that just can be compared in facts, such as how you feel driving it.

Guide on How to Buy a Second Hand Car

A second-hand car is generally less expensive, making it more affordable than a new vehicle. However, according to the Federal Trade Commission, buying a used car requires homework that can save you time and money.

Research

Determining what type of second-hand car, including make, mode and year, you want to purchase saves you time and money. It allows you to narrow your search down and concentrate on a specific vehicle.

Research various types of cars that will work for your driving needs and your budget. Talk to a mechanic and visit dealerships. Request information about a car's engine and accident rating. Also, use sites, such as Edmonds and AutoTrader, to conduct research.

Locating a Car

Use online sites, such as AutoTrader.com, Cars.com, Craigslist.org and Ebay.com, to view second-hand cars for sale. Also, purchase local newspapers and view the used cars for sale. Additionally, dealerships offer second-hand cars for sale; so visit used car lots.

History

Gather the information, including make, model and vehicle identification number (VIN), about a second-hand car that you are considering buying. Online sites, such as Carfax and AutoCheck, allow you to enter the vehicle's information and purchase a report showing any thefts or accidents the second-hand car suffered.

What Is Invoice Car Price?

As experiences go, purchasing a new car is one of those that can either be exciting or maddeningly frustrating. Understanding what those numbers on your new car's window represent can help to ease some of the potential aggravation.

Dealers

Car dealers work like any other business; buy low and sell high is the name of the game. Through arrangement with the factory, new car dealers receive a discount on the merchandise, called wholesale.

Invoice Price

As the name suggests, invoice price is what the dealer had to pay the manufacturer for the car.

Profit Margin

Dealers cannot dell a car at wholesale and make money, which is why the factory sets a "suggested" retail price called the manufacturer's suggested retail price. The difference between invoice price and MSRP is the dealer's potential profit margin.

Invoice Variations

The invoice amount is determined by the factory cost of the car, which includes base cost and all additional options.

The "Big Buy" Lie

Don't believe those car salesmen who claim to have gotten a "factory discount" for selling vehicles in bulk. All dealers large and small pay the same wholesale (invoice) price for their cars.

How to Register a New Car You Just Bought in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville, Florida, is intersected by two major highways, Interstate 95 and Interstate 10. Situated where the St. Johns River meets the Atlantic Ocean, traffic patterns in the area are often intense. For insurance purposes as well as to avoid a ticket, be sure to register any new vehicles you buy in Jacksonville as soon as possible to comply with state Department of Motor Vehicles requirements. In case you are in an accident or asked to show your current registration as part of a routine traffic stop, it is to your advantage to have your registration materials up-to-date.

Instructions

1

Ask the dealer or person who sold you the car to fill out and provide you with a copy of the bill of sale and also a certificate of title showing that the vehicle is signed over to you. You need these documents to apply for a new title in your name. Some dealers or car sellers may accompany you to the nearest tax collector/title office to do the title transfer on the spot. Others may simply turn the old title over to you, in which case you need to have the vehicle identification number checked to make sure that you have purchased a legal vehicle.

2

Verify your vehicle identification number if you did not buy your new car in Jacksonville from a dealer who provided this service. You can do this online by putting your VIN into the Vehicle Information Check page provided on the website of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (see link in Resources). Print out the verification that your vehicle identification number fits the vehicle you purchased and mail it to the DMV-Neil Kirkman Building, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0500, accompanied by your completed application for a certificate of title as well as sales tax on the car and a one-time new registration fee.

3

Wait to receive your new title. In the meantime, use the temporary 30-day tag from the dealer or person who sold you the car. Since Florida tags are not transferable, you must display this temporary tag while you are waiting to receive your title, proof of insurance cards and other documentation required to register your new car.

4

Go to one of the nine Jacksonville-area Motor Vehicle Service offices (see list of locations in References/Resources) with a copy of your car title, or your loan papers if you do not own your car outright, as well as your proof of insurance and residency. If you do not have one of the new Florida licenses, keep in mind that you must prove citizenship as well as residency. You receive registration papers as well as a metal license plate with a registration sticker for the current year. This replaces the temporary tags you received when you bought the car.

5

Install your new Florida/Duval County license plate on your new car. Keep your new car's registration as well as your driver's license and your proof of insurance with you or in your car at all times. You are required to produce all three upon request of law enforcement, especially when you are pulled over or involved in an accident.

Nissan Maxima GLE Vs. SE

During its fifth (1995 to 1999) and sixth (2000 to 2003) generations, the Nissan Maxima came in three trims. Two of these were the luxury-oriented GLE and the sporty SE.

Engines

The GLE and SE Maximas share the same V6 engines. The fifth-generation cars have 190 horsepower; the sixth generation have as much as 255 horses.

Transmissions

The SE comes with a standard five-speed manual transmission while the GLE has a four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission remained an option for the SE, though.

Safety Features

There is not much to distinguish between the GLE and SE in terms of safety features. The GLE got an additional keyless entry feature in the fifth generation, and the SE offered it as well by 2003.

Interior Features

Both four-seater mid-sized sedans, the GLE comes with a standard CD changer in later sixth-generation incarnations, while it remained an option in the SE. The GLE also had a subwoofer in its sound system.

Exterior Features

True to its firmer suspension and sporty inspiration, virtually all SEs have a spoiler and alloy wheels. The GLE also comes with alloys but offers the spoiler as an option.

The Best All Purpose Vans

Whether for business or pleasure some of the best all-purpose vans are available on the market today from Ford and Chevrolet. Both automobile manufacturers offer roomy vehicles with ample cargo space and a plethora of features. Under the hood, the vans boast powerful engines with generous horsepower and torque while the transmissions provide a smooth, comfortable ride.

Ford E-Series

The Ford E-Series is responsible for approximately 80 percent of all full-size van sales in the United States and has been the top selling van in its class since 1980. The 4.6-liter Triton 16-valve Flex-Fuel V8 engine boasts 225 horsepower and 286 pounds per foot of torque with 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission. The E-Series comes standard with reclining captain's chairs with armrests, rear seat DVD system, voice activated Ford Sync, Sirius satellite radio and a towing ability of up to 10,000 lbs. With a generous 7-15 people seating capacity, the 2011 Ford E-Series is available starting at an MSRP of $27,970.

Ford Transit Connect

Offered as either a cargo or passenger van, the Ford Transit Connect has a payload rating up to 1,600 lbs. yet provides the fuel economy and maneuverability of a car. The responsive 2.0-liter Duratec 16-valve I-4 engine generates 136 horsepower and 128 pounds per foot of torque and is mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 15.4-gallon tank delivers an EPA estimated 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. To help maintain the security of the vehicle, the ignition key is needed to unlock the rear doors as well as the hood. Equipped with generous cargo space, wheelhouse covers, four-speaker stereo system and seating for up to five, the 2011 Transit Connect XL is offered for an MSRP of $21,200.

Chevrolet Express

With an MSRP starting at $24,860, the 2011 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a Vortec 5.3-liter E85 FlexFuel-capable 16-valve V8 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 334 pounds per foot of torque with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The van's 31-gallon fuel tank capacity coupled with the EPA's estimated 17 mpg gives the Chevy Express a 527-mile range when driving on the highway. Additional features include front and rear curtain side impact airbags, tire pressure and oil life monitoring system and StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control System. The Chevrolet Express' roomy interior comfortably seats up to eight people.

How to Find Dealer Incentives on a Lexus IS 250

The Lexus IS 250 is a mid-size, four-door luxury sedan made by Toyota Motor Company. Dealers will frequently offer rebates, discounts and other incentives to increase sales of the Lexus IS 250, although Cars Direct notes that incentives vary based on region and the size of the dealership. Use three kinds of resources to find dealer incentives on the Lexus IS 250 you want to purchase.

Instructions

1

Contact your local Lexus dealer. Car dealers in your community who sell the Lexus IS 250 can explain current sales incentives, rebate programs and special promotions. Lexus provides a free tool on its website to help you find a nearby Lexus dealer. You can search by state or ZIP code, or you can enter your street address and the Lexus search tool will find the dealer closest to you.

2

Connect with Lexus directly. Visit the Lexus website to view special incentive programs or current sales events. Lexus usually publishes banner ads on its site announcing sales, rebates or incentives on cars such as the IS 250. You can also call Lexus customer service at 800-255-3987 for more information about current sales programs. Sales staff can explain current promotions, provide detailed information about the IS 250 or identify the nearest Lexus dealer. Note that you will need to provide your ZIP code -- on the website and the telephone -- in order to find incentives applicable in your area.

3

Explore automotive websites. Consumer guides like the ones published by Edmunds, Cars Direct and the National Automobile Dealers Association provide up-to-date information on all promotional incentive programs running for the Lexus IS 250. Some guides group incentives by make and model -- so you would search for the Lexus IS 250 to view rebates -- while others publish all seasonal incentives together, so you will need to browse incentives for all makes and models of vehicles.

How Do I Know If I Have a Cadillac CTS 3.2-Liter or a 3.6-Liter V6 Engine?

The Cadillac CTS has been available since its introduction as a 2003 model. To decide whether your CTS has a 3.2-liter or 3.5-liter engine, you can decode the vehicle identification number (VIN), which not only identifies cars as an anti-theft measure but also tells you about general features of the car, such as engine type, factory of origin, and whether it accepts ethanol gas.

Instructions

1

Locate the VIN in the lower-right corner of the windshield, stamped or etched on a plate attached to the dashboard.

2

Ensure that the third character is a 6 to confirm it's a Cadillac.

3

Check that the fourth and fifth characters are DM, DN, DP, or DR to confirm that it's a CTS. These are for 2006 model. These two characters vary by year model. For example, the set for a 2003 model is DG, DM, DR, or DU.

4

Check the eighth character. J means the engine is a 3.1-liter V6. M and 8 both mean it's a 3.5-liter V6. 7 means it's a 3.6-liter V6. There is no GM 3.2-liter engine of any number of cylinders among 2006 models. For 2003 models, N indicates a 3.2-liter V6. There are no 3.6-liter engines for model year 2003.