Sunday, September 27, 2015

How to Buy a Car From Belgium

How to Buy a Car From Belgium

You can buy both new and used cars from car dealers throughout Belgium. You can also buy second-hand cars privately. Belgium has favorable car prices in the EU market

Papers

    The seller will give you: a bill of sale or invoice, a registration request (demande d'immatriculation -- formulaire rose) and a conformity certificate (certificat de conformit). If you wish to export the car you will need these documents as well as transit plates if the car is being driven.

Legals

    The registration request will have two stamps on it, called 705 and 904. The 705 stamp is proof the vehicle has been through customs and the 904 is proof the car is legally registered and VAT has been paid. The conformity certificate is proof the car is up to European safety and emissions standards.

Registration

    To export a Belgian car you will need to register the car on a temporary basis. Take all documents to the nearest Vehicle Registration Office (Direction Immatriculation, DIV) along with your identity documents, such as passport and proof of your permanent address.

    Check how much tax you will have to pay in the country you wish to export the car to. This can vary greatly, even within the EU. You can arrange to drive yourself if you are within Europe, or organize transport via land, or sea, to your desired destination.

Saturday, September 26, 2015

How to Buy Yourself a Used Car

How to Buy Yourself a Used Car

So the old clunker finally kicked it. It's time to get rid of your '74 Yugo with the pleather interior and purchase something brand spankin' new. Well, maybe not exactly new ... Why not consider buying a used car? You want to save a few dollars, right? Well, you've come to the right place, because we can help you make sure that you don't get a lemon.



But we must warn you: Buying a used car is an annoying process. Reading this article will greatly alleviate your prospective ulcers, but keep in mind that there are lots of things to consider. So read this article carefully, print it out, post it on your refrigerator and give it a kiss goodnight at bedtime. It will be your new best friend.

Information on a 1995 Lexus SC400

Information on a 1995 Lexus SC400

Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, introduced the SC coupe for the 1992 model year with two trims: the comparatively base SC300 and the more powerful SC400. The 1995 Lexus SC400 was noted for its exterior enhancements over its predecessors in the car's first generation of production, in addition to its purpose of combining the major elements of luxury and sports vehicles.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

    The 1995 Lexus SC400 had a 4-liter 250-horsepower V8 engine with 260 foot-pounds of torque. As the more luxury-oriented of the two trims, the 1995 SC400 received a four-speed automatic transmission, with no option of having a manual. With a 21-gallon gas tank, it got a fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 22 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

    The 1995 Lexus SC400 received driver and passenger airbags, as well as power windows/door locks and anti-lock brakes. With standard seating for up to four people, the cabin had a wrap-around design that exuded a sporty feel, yet other interior features--such as a premium stereo system with cassette deck, comfortable leather seats, and one-touch power features--that recalled those of its luxury-oriented bigger sibling, the full-sized LS.

Exterior

    The 1995 Lexus SC400 had 16-inch alloy wheels, and due to its low ground clearance it drove rather close to the ground. The wheel design was new for that model year, as were the grille and headlamps.

Reception

    The 1995 Lexus SC400 was noted for its combination of performance and luxury features. Its engine could take the coupe from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.6 seconds. The suspension was firm, yet the ride was smooth and there was little wind noise. Shortcomings included water-absorbing headlights, prematurely worn timing belts and the lack of a manual transmission option.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 1995 Lexus SC400 was $49,400. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates its price range at around $9,000 to $11,000, depending on mileage and condition.

Friday, September 25, 2015

Pontiac 3.8 Specs

Pontiac, which was owned by General Motors, released several different vehicles that came with a 3.8-liter engine. These vehicles include versions of the Bonneville sedan, Grand Prix sports car and Firebird sports car. While all of these cars have 3.8-liter engines, specifications can still vary depending on the model.

1999 Pontiac Firebird

    The standard coupe and convertible have a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 200 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, or revolutions per minute. Torque is rated at 225 foot-pounds at 4,000 rpm. The compression ratio is 9.4 to one and the engine displacement is 3,785 cc. The bore and stroke measure 3.80 inches and 3.40 inches. The fuel tank is 16.8 gallons, and the car has 12.9 cubic feet of cargo space. A five-speed manual overdrive transmission is standard, though you can choose a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission instead.

2003 Pontiac Bonneville

    The 2003 Bonneville has a 3.8-liter V6 engine and 240 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. The torque rating is 280 foot-pounds at 3,600 rpm. The compression ratio is 8.5 to one. The engine has a displacement of 3,790 cc. The bore and stroke also measure 3.80 inches and 3.40 inches. The Bonneville comes exclusively with a four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. It can tow up to 1,000 pounds and has 18 cubic feet of cargo room. The fuel tank is 18.5 gallons, and the Bonneville runs on unleaded fuel.

2004 Pontiac Grand Prix

    The GT1 and GT2 models have a 3.8-liter V6 engine and 200 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. The GTP has a 3.8-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower at 5,200 rpm. The GT1 and GT2 create 225 foot-pounds at 4,000 rpm, while the GTP produces 280 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm. The engine displacement is 3,791 cc, and the bore and stroke data are the same as the other Pontiac models. The GT1 and GT2 have a compression ratio of 9.4 to one. The GTP has a compression ratio of 8.5 to one. The fuel tank is 17 gallons.

Thursday, September 24, 2015

Specifications for a 1988 Mustang

The 1988 Ford Mustang was one of the model-year entries of the famed pony car. It had two trims during its production run: the LX and the GT. The LX was available as a coupe and hatchback, while the GT was available as a hatchback and convertible.

Engine and Transmission

    The LX versions of the 1988 Ford Mustang came equipped with a 2.3-liter, 90-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine with 134 foot-pounds of torque and a compression ratio of 9.5:1. The GT trim had the more powerful 4.9-liter, 225 horsepower V-8 engine with 300 foot-pounds of torque and a compression ratio of 9.0:1. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual overdrive, although there was an option to get a four-speed automatic overdrive.

Fuel Economy

    The fuel economy of the 1988 Ford Mustang varied by trim. The LX vehicles got 25 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 30 mpg for highway driving. The GT vehicles got 16 mpg for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

    The 1988 Ford Mustang had a cabin big enough to accommodate up to four people. The trims and various body types had roughly the same amount of leg room, as well as front shoulder and front hip room. However, the coupe and hatchback had a little more rear shoulder and rear hip room than the convertible, while the convertible had more front and rear head room than the other body types.

Exterior

    As a two-door vehicle, the 1988 Ford Mustang's curb weight ranged from 2,751 to 3,329 lbs., depending on the trim; the GT versions had more curb weight than the LX versions. The vehicle measured 180 inches long, 69 inches wide, and 52 inches high. The LX trim had 14-inch steel wheels, while the GT trim had 15-inch alloy wheels.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the 1988 Ford Mustang were $8,835 for the LX coupe, $9,341 for the LX hatchback, $12,745 for the GT hatchback, $13,702 for the LX convertible, and $16,610 for the GT convertible. As of 2010, 1988 Ford Mustangs can be purchased within the $3,000 to $10,000 price range.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Rav4 Remote Key Instructions

When you purchase a new or used Toyota Rav4, you will be given the remote keys to the vehicle. The remote key, in addition to having the vehicle's individual key on the end of it, will also have an electronic component attached that allows you to lock and unlock the doors and sound the car alarm. This will allow you to access the vehicle without placing the key into the door to function.

Instructions

    1

    Press the "Unlock" button on top of the remote key to unlock the driver side door. The "Unlock" button is marked by a picture of a key lock that is in an unlocked position. Press the "Unlock" button twice to unlock the other three doors to the vehicle and the trunk.

    2

    Press the "Lock" button on the bottom of the remote key to lock the door. The "Lock" button is marked by a picture of a key lock in the locked position. Press the "Lock" button twice to lock the other three doors of the vehicle and the trunk.

    3

    Press the "Alarm" button to sound the car alarm. The "Alarm" button is marked by a picture of a megaphone with swiveling sound waves coming from the tip of the cone. Open the car door and put the key into the ignition to turn off the alarm.

How to Compare Luxury Sedans

How to Compare Luxury Sedans

Luxury sedans provide comfort, advanced technology and higher re-sale value than economy cars. Luxury sedans are built with features not offered in standard sedans such as leather interiors, high-tech navigation and engine systems, and other new technology. Because of added extras, luxury sedans can cost five times as much, or more, than economy sedans. For example, according to Automotive, an autos website, the 2010 Toyota Corolla, a popular economy sedan, sells for approximately $18,000 whereas the 2010 Lexus LS600h L sells for more than $100,000.

Price

    Price is an important consideration when comparing luxury sedans. Popular brands such as Cadillac, Lexus, Infiniti, Acura and Mercedes market models whose base prices range between $33,000 and $60,000. Options and trim packages can easily send actual transaction prices another $20,000 higher. Higher-end luxury car models from brands such as Jaguar cost between $50,000 and 95,000 dollars. The final price you pay for a luxury sedan can be impacted by loan and lease terms and by the amount you negotiate off the sticker price.

Features

    Compare luxury cars by the features that are most important to you. For example, if you live in an area with varying weather conditions, narrow your search to luxury sedans with all-wheel-drive capability. Then compare each of the all-wheel-drive models according to the next most important feature: Is interior or exterior size important? Seat comfort? Stereo system quality? Driving performance? Advanced technology systems such as computer connectivity, vehicle security and navigation systems? Determine what's most important to you to narrow your choices.

Gas Mileage

    Luxury sedans such as Lexus, Lincoln, Cadillac and BMW offer hybrid models alongside gas-powered models. Compare fuel usage to determine which best meets your needs. Pay close attention to hybrid luxury sedans to determine which cars gets the best fuel economy if you'll do mostly in-town driving. If you'll do plenty of highway driving, a gas-powered car may ultimately save money.

Monday, September 21, 2015

Information on the 2009 Dodge 3500 Mega Cab

The 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab is available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models and was originally priced between $44,455 and $47,545. The 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab is part of the Ram truck's third generation.

Engine

    Both the two and four-wheel drive 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab models came equipped with 6.7-liter, 350-horsepower engines with 610 ft-lb of torque. Both models come standard with six-speed manual overdrive transmissions, but have the option of a six-speed version.

Features

    The 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab trucks come with short beds, four doors and a maximum seating capacity of six. Each come equipped standard with air-conditioning, power windows and power door locks.

Safety

    Safety features of the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab models include driver and passenger airbags and anti-lock brakes. Side head curtain airbags are available as optional equipment. Though traction and stability control are not available on the 2009 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab trucks, each model does come equipped with limited slip differential, which keeps the drive wheels from losing traction by switching power from the wheel that is losing traction to the other wheel on the same axle.

Sunday, September 20, 2015

How to Start a Bidding War While New Car Shopping

How to Start a Bidding War While New Car Shopping

When buying a new car, one of the best strategies to employ to gain an advantageous positions as a buyer is to start a bidding war between rival dealerships. In light of the economic downturn the new car market is a "buyer's market" with demand for cars extremely low. Car companies are struggling to get qualified buyers on the lot. With a little bit of research, time and mental toughness, you can start a bidding war between dealerships and take advantage of the cost benefits as well as some added extras on your new vehicle. How do you get the best deal? Select, connect and reject.

Instructions

Select, Connect and Reject

    1

    Select the proper vehicle. Before purchasing any new vehicle it is imperative to do the research about your prospective choices. Car companies have excellent websites with comprehensive information about their vehicles. Some of the features you should be aware of are: cost of maintenance, mileage, warranty, safety and reliability. You should also find out what the standard features are on the vehicle you choose as well as the added features you desire. In some states, certain vehicles can be driven in High Occupancy Vehicle lanes even if you are driving by yourself. Always check prices with a third party such as Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Reports, Carfax or J.D. Power and Associates rather than relying solely on the manufacturer for research on your vehicles.

    2

    Determine a "fair" price for your desired vehicle. Opinions vary about how much car companies make on a car sale and what a fair price to pay for a vehicle should be. Savvy dealerships know that invoice costs for cars can be readily found on the Internet and adjust the prices accordingly. Find a price that's as close to the dealer invoice price as possible. The above-mentioned websites, among others, include the typical recommended prices for most cars.

    3

    Choose at least two dealerships that have the desired vehicle. When selecting dealerships, you must also do some research. Ask friends and family where they have purchased vehicles. Go online and read customer reviews and experiences they have had with your chosen dealerships. Make sure the dealerships have the exact vehicle you are looking for at the right price by checking their inventory at their websites.

    4

    Call the dealerships and let them know you're coming in. It's also a good idea to begin the negotiation process over the phone. Let the dealership know that you're interested in a specific vehicle. Give them the vehicle stock number or VIN (vehicle identification number). Next, tell them the price you want to pay for the vehicle. Finally, set up a time to stop by the dealership and let them know you're going to other dealerships that day.

    5

    Bring all your research with you to the dealership. Sales reps are intimidated by informed buyers. Once you're on the lot, have the sales representative take you directly to the vehicle. Inspect the car and make sure the mileage is low (sometimes vehicles can rack up hundreds of miles from test drives). Call your sales agent by name and act is if you're in charge of the transaction. Make sure to share your knowledge of the vehicle's features and its price.

    6

    Reject any offer on your first visit. You'll rarely get the best possible price on a vehicle on your first visit to a car dealership. Even though salespersons want to sell you a car, they also have a sales manager over them applying pressure to up-sell you on your desired vehicle. Go straight to your other selected dealership and let them know your experience at their competitor's lot. Repeat the same process from the other lot. Give them the opportunity to beat the first offer then WALK AWAY.

    7

    Return to the dealerships for your second visit after the sales agents call you and invite you to return. Allow one week to pass before responding to their phone calls. When you do return for your second visit to the dealerships, let them know right away that you don't have time to spend all day on the lot and that you don't want to haggle. Stick to your chosen price and beware of them trying to up-sell you on added equipment and packages. Be firm about your price and threaten to walk away again if you have to. Remember that the sales agent will use any tactic to bring you up from your price. Hold firm. You're not being unreasonable; you're trying to save money.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Negotiation Tips for Car Buying

Buying a new car is thrilling. Going down to the dealership and negotiating on the price and payments is not. You can make the negotiation process a little more pleasant and financially beneficial with some planning and knowledge.

Preparation

    It is important to know the dealer cost of the car you want. The online services Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or NADA Guides will give you the invoice cost. Make a note of the percentage discount from MSRP for the base vehicle and options to get to the invoice cost. If you choose a car with different equipment when you get to the dealership, you can make a quick calculation of the invoice cost.

    Call your bank or credit union and get its current rate for car loans and have them calculate the monthly payment on the amount you plan to finance.

Attitude

    Car salespeople and sales managers strive to get buyers emotionally involved. They want you to love the car so much that the price will become less of a factor. The salesperson will also work to prove that he is on your side during the negotiations. Unless you are a regular customer, these tactics are designed to reduce your resistance to a higher price.

    You must remember to remain calm and friendly. Do not get upset or emotionally involved. If you remain calm and business like, you will show the salesman and sales manager you are serious about buying the car but will not overpay.

    If at any time you do not like the way you are being treated, leave the dealership. Sales personnel in dealerships sometimes act as if you must buy from them. Take away that belief by leaving. If they are willing to deal, they will call you back.

Negotiations

    From the car dealer's side, the purpose of negotiations is to get you to accept a higher price and monthly payment than you planned. Your goal is to get the best price and financing terms the dealer can offer.

    After the dealer opens negotiations by offering to sell you the car at full sticker, you will be expected to make a counter offer. Your first offer should be slightly below your calculated dealer cost. If your offer is close to a profitable deal, they will know you are a serious buyer. Avoid making any further offers until the dealer has lowered the asking price several times. If the offered price reaches an acceptable level, accept the deal. If they are not within a few hundred dollars of invoice cost, make one more offer at $100 above invoice and see if they reduce their price again.

    Car dealerships usually have access to better financing terms than the local bank branch. They earn extra profit by writing the car loans at several percentage points above the buy rate. Your financial negotiations should be directed at getting a lower interest rate than you were quoted from the bank. Ask the salesman to disclose the rate and term for any payment quotes. Once you see the rate, counter with your bank rate and ask the dealer to beat the rate. If they can, they will. A well-negotiated car loan will save you significantly more money than knocking a few hundred dollars off of the selling price.

    You should negotiate the price and financing terms simultaneously. If you drive the negotiations, the sales person and sales manager will be reacting to your initiative. After reaching a deal, you want to make sure the final documents have the same terms you agreed to during the negotiation process.

    Enjoy you new car!

Tips on Using a Car Buying Agent to Buy a New Car

Tips on Using a Car Buying Agent to Buy a New Car

Taking advantage of the services a car buying agent has to offer could mean you getting a much better deal on your new or used car. Why should you bother to track down the right car for the right price from the right dealership when for a reasonable fee you can put the purchasing power of a car buying agent to work for you? But make sure you do your homework so you're getting the best deal at the lowest possible.

What type of broker is he?

    Know what type broker you're using, and make sure he's really working for you. Most consumer- driven brokers aren't into showy displays and big offices, they may work in a small home office yet have clients worldwide. An honest car buying agent will charge a flat fee for his services and inform you up front of that fee.

Check him out

    Find out if your prospective car agent is getting commissions or compensation from a dealership for referring you. While it isn't illegal, it should make you wonder if he's really got your best interest at heart. Call local dealerships and ask if they know him or have ever worked with him.

What's his background?

    Quiz the agent about his background, fee structure and history, he should be forthcoming with all information and be proud of his track record. Fees for his services can range from &200 up, used and rare cars more since it's more work to find a deal. Your best bet is to get the most experienced agent who is knowledgeable about all the rebates and incentives the car dealerships don't want you, the consumer, to know about.

Get it in writing

    Make sure you choose an agent that can facilitate your purchase from start to finish. The agent should get a signed Buyer's Order from the dealer before you take delivery of your car; this will eliminate any add-ons or price changes at the last minute.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

How to Inspect Automotive Paint Work

At a glance or from 10 or 15 feet away, a shiny paint job can look great. But a close visual inspection can reveal a myriad of issues and tell you a lot about a car's history. The next time you're looking at a car that is advertised as being in "as new" or "immaculate" condition, use the tips below to see if the seller is true to his word or trying to pull a fast one on you.

Instructions

    1

    Look at the surface of the paint in direct sunlight or with a bright light to determine if the clear coat (if there is one) is burning off, particularly on areas the hood, roof and trunk.

    2

    Look at the separate panels that are near each other from different angles and in different light to see if they have been repainted. It is very hard to exactly match the color of a repainted panel to the rest of the car.

    3

    Inspect the paint very closely to see if there is any checking or "crazing" which is where the paint dries out over time and begins to crack. If the paint is checked, the car will need a new paint job to look its best.

    4

    Open up the engine bay and doorjambs to see if the color in these areas is the same as the exterior. If the color is different, the car has been resprayed.

    5

    Inspect areas around the headlights, taillights and trim so see if there is any overspray or areas where the paint has been taped off. Look very closely where the trim meets the painted metal body of the car for evidence of overspray or taping off. Often, cheap paint jobs do not have very thorough taping off, though a good painter can make a respray virtually undetectable.

    6

    Inspect the engine bay for signs of overspray, particularly on the areas toward the bottom, which are hard to mask off during a cheap paint job.

    7

    Look down the side of the car at the reflections. These should be relatively straight without excess waviness. If the reflection is wavy, the panel might have been damaged and repaired at some point in the past. Also, run your hands down the surface of the paint to make sure it is smooth. If it is rough to the touch, it was probably cheaply repainted at some point.

    8

    Check the door and panel gaps. The gaps should be the same width all around the panel. Gaps that get narrower or larger are signs that the car was taken apart for accident repair and repainting.

    9

    Check for signs of corrosion in the lower extremities of the rocker panels (the area that runs down the bottom of the car's side between the front and rear wheels) and around the bottom of the windshield and rear windows, where moisture can accumulate. Look for bumps where rust may be building up, since it may still be covered with a layer of shiny paint.

    10

    Run a magnet over areas of the car that you feel might have excess bondo repair. The magnet will stick to metal, but not to bondo or a fiberglass repair.

Monday, September 14, 2015

How to Inspect Airbags in Used Cars

Saving money by buying a used car is a good idea, especially when the car has been well maintained and has not needed any major repairs. While inspecting a used car before your purchase, you should pay close attention to the airbags. They are a crucial safety feature and you must find out in advance if they are functioning properly.

Instructions

    1

    Order a Vehicle History Report from one of many providers. Consumer Reports has rated the five companies which issue vehicle history reports (see References). While not infallible, these reports provide information on the car's history, including airbag deployments. If the airbags have ever been deployed, they must be inspected by a mechanical engineer who specializes in airbag safety. Locate a mechanical engineer with a background in airbag safety through the internet or through your nearest university's School of Mechanical Engineering.

    2

    Take the car to an independent mechanic, who can check for any damage to the airbags.

    3

    Inspect the car's title. Look for any notations (called "brands") that indicate the vehicle has been in an accident or required major repairs. If the vehicle was in an accident, there may have been undetected damage to the airbags.

Information About the 98 Ford Mustang

The 1998 Ford Mustang appeared as the fifth and last model-year entry in the famed pony car's seventh generation of production, which ended when its immediate successor was the first to get Ford's angular New Edge styling. The '98 Mustang was manufactured and sold at a time when Ford was trying to make the vehicle more affordable for consumers. It came as a coupe and convertible, with base, GT and Cobra trims. A special higher-performance version of the Cobra, called the SVT Mustang Cobra, was also available.

Changes

    Ford made a few changes to the 1998 Mustang over previous incarnations in the seventh generation. They removed the dash clock and gave the GT engines a slight bump in horsepower. They changed the performance tires from a "Z" to an "H" rating. Also, to increase affordability, Ford restricted the optional leather package to only the front bucket seats.

Engines and Performance

    The base trim of the 1998 Mustang got a 3.8-liter, 150 horsepower V-6. The GTs got a 4.6-liter, 225-horsepower V-8; the Cobra's 4.6-liter V8 had 80 more horses. The Base, GT and Cobra trims could go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 9.9, 6.7 and 5.9 seconds, respectively. The five-speed manual with overdrive was the standard transmission, although the four-speed automatic was made optional for all trims except the Cobra. Depending on trim, engine and gearbox, the fuel economy was 17 to 20 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 to 29 mpg for highway driving.

Interior and Exterior

    Air conditioning, stereo system with radio and cassette/CD player, power door locks and windows, and driver and passenger airbags were some of the standard interior features of the 1998 Ford Mustang. The GT and Cobra also had driver multi-adjustable power seats, and the Cobra had anti-lock braking and cruise control. Exterior-wise, the '98 Mustang still had the Fox body-based styling the car had used since the late 1970s.

Reception

    Customers reacted strongly to the 1998 Ford Mustang, just as they had to previous seventh-generation entries. Edmunds.com particularly recommended the GT, Cobra and SVT versions of the car, as the editors felt that the 4.6-liter engine was smoother than the 5-liter V8 that was in previous GT/Cobra trims. Ford produced more than 174,000 '98 Mustangs, including less than 10,000 of the SVT versions.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail price of the 1998 Ford Mustang ranged from $16,150 for the base coupe to $28,510 for the Cobra convertible. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the value of the '98 Mustang at around $5,000 to $12,000.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

How to Buy a Used Car in the United Kingdom

How to Buy a Used Car in the United Kingdom

You can purchase a used car in the United Kingdom (U.K.) either from an auto dealer or a private owner. Although you may be able to get hold of a cheaper car if you decide to buy it from a private owner, you will not be able to get the car's warranty. Besides the warranty, purchasing from a car dealer gives you the added advantage of financing options. Purchasing a used car in the U.K. is just as difficult as anywhere else in the world; you have to analyze the overall condition of the vehicle carefully before you make the purchase, as well as verify that all car documents remain intact.

Instructions

    1

    Weigh your options of whether you want to purchase the car from a private owner or a dealer.

    If you decide to buy from a dealer, consider the convenience of an online car dealer (see Resources section for a few options).

    If you choose to buy from a private owner, take a look at some of the online advertisements of privately owned cars (see Resources section).

    2

    Look for cars with low mileage. Ideally, the car you consider for purchase should not have more than one previous owner. Also, keep in mind that the vehicle you're looking to buy should have a good resale value.

    3

    Short-list at least two or three cars after carefully analyzing their history and records. Have them inspected by a professional mechanic who will check the car's exterior, tires, interior, engine, and transmission. Do not forget to test-drive the vehicle to make sure you are satisfied with the drive.

    4

    Secure your finances. If you do not have sufficient money for purchasing a used car, consider getting a loan. For instance, HSBC provides between 7,000 and 25,000 for car purchases (see References section).

    5

    Purchase the vehicle you selected. You must provide a proof of a current insurance policy if you decide to buy from an auto dealer. Once you show your insurance proof, the dealer will give you the registration and license plates.

How to Calculate a Car Lease

How to Calculate a Car Lease

The idea of leasing a vehicle is based on the concept that you are paying for the amount of depreciation you have used during the term of your lease. To calculate a lease there are a number of different factors that are involved. The price of the vehicle, interest rate, the residual value, mileage allowance, and the money factor.

Instructions

    1

    Negotiate the price of the vehicle your are going to lease. Price on the car is negotiable on a lease. Leasing a car changes nothing on the negotiation process of the vehicles price when you are considering a lease.

    2

    Look at the residual value when the offer is brought out from the sales office. The depreciation value is defined as the difference of the vehicles original paid price and what the value of the vehicle will be at the end of the lease, the "residual value". Example: you lease a vehicle for 36 months and the price of the vehicle is $20,000, if the residual value is 50 percent when you turn the vehicle in the projected value is $10,000.

    3

    Look at your mileage limits in your lease offer. If you are going to drive the vehicle over on the mileage limits on the lease you will be penalized when you turn your vehicle in. You have an option to increase the mileage limits but your monthly lease payments will increase as well.

    4

    Make sure you research before hand your what your credit score qualifies you on a car loan. You should be able to get the same interest rate on a lease.

    5

    Understand the money factor. This money factor is what interest you are paying monthly for the lease. This is negotiable. The easy calculation to convert the money factor to an APR percentage is to multiply the money factor by 2400.

    6

    Calculate these three lease formulas to find out how much interest you're going to pay over the term of the lease.

    Money factor: Example, .0025 multiplied by 2400 = 6 percent APR
    Convert these numbers to true decimal numbers now to use in the following formulas. 6 percent = .06
    .06 divided by 12 months =.005 interest per month

    This formula will give you the amount of interest paid over the full term of the lease:

    N(Cr+Fr ) divided by 2

    N= Number of months of the lease
    C= Capitalized Cost or the price on the vehicle you negotiated off MSRP
    F= Residual value (use decimals numbers here to i.e. 50 residual = .50 or 50 percent)
    r= The monthly interest rate calculated in the previous formula

    This last formula will give you the average of interest paid per month over the course of the entire lease:

    (C+F)r divided by 2

    C= Capitalized Cost or the price on the vehicle you negotiated off MSRP
    F= Residual value
    r= The monthly interest rate calculated in the previous formula

How to Find a Used Minivan for Sale in Los Angeles

If you are in the Los Angeles, California area and need to buy a used minivan, you may be overwhelmed by choice. You can purchase a used minivan in Los Angeles from an individual owner that is selling the car on their own. You can also purchase a used minivan from a local Los Angeles car dealer right off the used car lot. If you need financing, you should stick with car lots, but if you have the money up front you may get a better price by purchasing from an individual.

Instructions

    1

    Pick up a copy of the Los Angeles Times Newspaper and look in the classified ads section for used minivans that are for sale. You can usually find a copy of the newspaper at a local Los Angeles county library as well. You can also look on their website (see Resources).

    2

    Use the Used Cars website (see Resources) to identify used car dealers in Los Angeles that have used minivans for sale. If you want to buy from a car lot, this is an easy way to view all of the lots in Los Angeles that have what you are looking for.

    3

    Browse through the Auto Trader website (see Resources) to look for listings of used minivans for sale in the Los Angeles area. You can also pick up a print copy of the local Auto Trader at most Los Angeles convenience stores.

    4

    Look at the ads on Los Angeles' Craigslist (see Resources) to see if there are any used minivan listings. You can even sort by area, such as Central LA or Westside.

    5

    Drive through your local Los Angeles neighborhood to see if there are any minivans with "For Sale" signs on them in a lot or driveway. If so, get the phone number on the sign to call and inquire about the used minivan.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

How to Import Japanese Cars to Canada

How to Import Japanese Cars to Canada

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulates the importing of cars into Canada. It has strict requirements, and applies duties and taxes. Several sellers of Japanese used cars might be able to help you deal with the import rules, and you can hire an import broker if the process seems too complicated. However, you can do it yourself.

Instructions

    1

    Contact the CBSA and Transport Canada to determine the eligibility requirements for Japanese cars to enter Canada. If a Japanese car has not been built to comply with U.S. or Canadian safety standards, you cannot alter it to comply and you cannot import it to Canada unless it is at least 15 years old, a bus manufactured before Jan. 1, 1971, or entering Canada temporarily. (See References 1 and 3)

    2

    Find a Japanese used-car exporter, and choose a Japanese car that meets the CBSA requirements. Japanese used-car dealers often market cars 15 years or older to Canadians. According to JapaneseUsedCars.Com, older used Japanese cars are good value because they are cheaper and generally maintained better than other makes of similar age. (See References 2)

    3

    Contact the exporter and make a purchase agreement with it. Usually, it sends an invoice by fax, which you have to sign and send back to Japan. (See References 4)

    4

    Send the payment to the exporter by bank transfer. It will ship the car and send you the proof of shipping. (See References 4)

    5

    Complete the Vehicle Import Form--Form 1--that you receive when the car arrives in Canada.

    6

    Pay import assessments, including duty, excise tax and goods and services tax (GST). These payments are based on the price you paid for the car. (See References 1)

    7

    Go through provincial or territorial safety inspection and pay provincial or territorial taxes when you license your vehicle. (See References 1)

How to Plan a Car Showroom

How to Plan a Car Showroom

Selling new cars requires expert car sales techniques. However, it is crucial to consider how the car appears in the showroom, and the environment it is presented in. These factors play a key role in influencing a potential buyer's decision. As building.co.uk outlines, the after-sales service also has to be factored into a design---such as a coffee bar or Internet cafe. Therefore, when planning a car showroom you'll need to think outside the box and be innovative in your design.

Instructions

    1

    Create a floor plan of the space that is to be turned into a car showroom. Basic details include the shape and total area of the floor. Make sure it is to scale, so that you can add features to the drawing. Use the ruler to draw straight edges, to keep the diagram clean.

    2

    Add essential details onto the floor plan---such as a reception area, payment area and office. By doing this, you know how much space you have to work with, and will influence the outcome of Step 4.

    3

    Make a list of all the cars that you need to have displayed in the showroom, and calculate if you have enough space to accommodate them all. You may have to move around the positioning of the reception area or payment desk in order to fit them in.

    4

    Brainstorm new ideas for creating a welcoming space to buyers, and consider what they are looking for in a showroom. As building.co.uk emphasis, more recently additional features such as an Internet station or coffee bar are demanded. These enhance the customer experience. Factor these into your plan.

    5

    Consider whether you need to make structural adjustments to the space. If there are few, or no windows consider adding more. This has been a recent trend in the car industry, in order to optimize natural light entering the space, and to create a dramatic, attractive entrance. Alternatively, you might want to create a raised platform to display cars more prominently in the center of the room.

    6

    Look around the showroom and assess from which direction light enters. Work out which windows it falls through and at what time. This is important for how you display the cars, as the light will pick up their color and detail. As building.co.uk points out, this cannot always be controlled.

    7

    Consult an interior designer for kitting out the interior of the showroom. Luxury fabrics, polished floors and modern light fittings affect the showroom's environment. To encourage sales, you need an inviting atmosphere so that customers feel welcomed and secure, and are more likely to make a commitment to purchase.

    8

    Complete the plan by following the guidelines of your interior designer: Modify the floor plan to make adjustments for specialist features, such as plants, vending machines or sofas. Add the position of each car onto your floor plan.

    9

    Collate the floor plan, interior design proposal and your research into one document. This is your plan, ready for action.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

How to Transfer a Numbered Plate to a New Car

How to Transfer a Numbered Plate to a New Car

If you want to transfer a numbered plate to a new car, you must register the car in your name. If you plan on selling the car or giving it to someone else, you will need to surrender the numbered plate to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Failure to return your plates can result in suspension of your driver's license. If you plan to transfer the numbered plate to your new car, you will need to follow your state's DMV policies and procedures. While such policies vary slightly between states, each state employs some common procedures.

Instructions

    1

    Take your plates to the nearest DMV office and request to transfer the plates and your registration to a new vehicle. You will need to present the title of the new car to show you own the vehicle. Ask the DMV for a "transfer receipt" so you can register the new car.

    2

    Present the "transfer receipt" to the DMV's registration section and request the form for a new registration. You will need to show your car title again and, in most cases, show proof of paying sales tax on the vehicle.

    3

    Fill out the registration forms, pay any fees imposed by your state DMV to transfer your plates and register the new car. Each state has its own fee structure. Most charge a small fee to register your new car and transfer the plates.

Monday, September 7, 2015

Specifications of a 2007 Chevy Silverado

The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 kicked off the second generation of production for the half-ton pickup truck, which made its proper debut for the 1999 model year. The trims--in ascending order--were the Work Truck, LT1, LT2 and LTZ, each with varied combinations of cab size and drivetrain options between the two/rear-wheel (2WD) and four-wheel (4WD).

Engines, Transmissions and Fuel Economy

    Depending on trim level, the engine of the 2007 Chevy Silverado was a 4.3-liter 195-horsepower V6 with 260 foot-pounds of torque, 4.8-liter 295-horsepower V8 with 305 foot-pounds of torque, or 5.3-liter 315-horsepower V8 with 338 foot-pounds of torque. The standard transmission was a four-speed automatic, and with a 26-gallon gas tank, the truck could get 15 to 17 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 19 to 21 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

    Depending on the type of trim, standard seating for the 2007 Chevy Silverado was enough to accommodate between three and six people. Front headroom was measured at 42 inches, front legroom at 41 inches, and front shoulder room and hip room at 65 inches. Tilt steering, stereo system and voice-activated telephone are some of the standard interior features of the truck. All trims except for the Work Truck combinations got other features such as cruise control and leather steering wheel with mounted controls, and the stripped-down Work Truck and Work Truck Long Box were the only '07 Silverado trucks that did not have standard air conditioning.

Exterior

    While the regular cab trucks of the 2007 Chevy Silverado had two doors, the ones with extended cabs had four. The curb weight, wheelbase, vehicle length and cargo bed length of the vehicle differed from one trim to another, with ranges of 4,600 to 5,400 lbs., 119 to 158 inches, 206 to 249 inches, and 69 to 98 inches respectively. The trims, however, shared the same width at 80 inches, height at 74 inches, and ground clearance at 9 inches. The size of the wheels was 17 inches, with the higher-end trims possessing alloy ones.

Safety, Braking and Handling

    Driver and passenger airbags were standard on the 2007 Chevy Silverado, as was anti-lock braking. The brakes themselves were made of front ventilated discs and rear drums, and all trims had electronic brake distribution. The suspension system consisted of independent wishbone front suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs and rigid beam rear suspension with leaf springs. The turning diameter differed from one trim to the other, with a range of 40 to 51 feet.

Price Range

    Due to the plethora of trims available, the price range of the 2007 Chevy Silverado is incredibly wide. The lowest manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the truck was $16,915 for the base, relatively unadorned Work Truck 2WD. On the other side of the spectrum, the LTZ Crew Cab 4WD had the highest MSRP at $38,090--more than twice as expensive than its far less loaded sibling. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book has a much narrower range in terms of the truck's price value, at $15,000 to $21,000.

Friday, September 4, 2015

How to Custom Order a New Car

How to Custom Order a New Car

Gone are the days when a car buyer was limited to a dealer's current stock. Today, a buyer who is willing to wait and, in some cases, pay extra for certain options, can get the car of his dreams. Most manufacturers allow you to build your car online, picking everything from color to options packages. You can also, with a salesperson's help, build your car by visiting a dealer's showroom. You won't be able to drive off in the vehicle the same day, but that is the trade-off for getting exactly what you want.

Instructions

    1

    Visit the manufacturer's website and enter "build a car" in the search box if you do not see a "Build Your Car" button, or go into a dealer showroom and inform a salesman that you want order a custom car.

    2

    Review and select, either online or in the dealership, your preferences for color, engine and other features.

    3

    Complete the online forms or sign the forms provided by your salesperson.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

How to Spot a Flood Damaged Vehicle

You are putting yourself at risk if you buy a car that has been damaged in a flood. The exterior may look fine, but a flood damaged vehicle may eventually suffer from mechanical malfunctions. Flooded cars have a higher tendency to experience problems with the transmission and electrical systems. You should find out if a car has been damaged in a flood before you purchase it.

Instructions

    1

    Look under the seats and in the trunk for signs of past water damage. There may still be some residue from the flood including mud and silt. Rust also is often present in flood damaged vehicles.

    2

    Check for discoloration in the interior of the car. Water damage causes fabric colors to fade. Obvious water stains on the upholstery is another warning sign to look out for.

    3

    Test all the vehicle's electrical systems. Turn on the ignition, try the radio, test the interior and exterior lights, and the heating system.

    4

    Sniff out any odors that the car may have. Flood damaged vehicles may have a moldy scent.

    5

    Take the car to a mechanic. If you are unsure about the car, take it to your mechanic and ask them to check for any flood damage. They should check all systems, including the vehicle wiring. Wires that have suffered water damage become brittle and break easily.

    6

    Get a copy of the vehicle's history. With the vehicle's VIN number, you can find out the history of the car on sites like CARFAX.

How to Buy a Honda Odyssey

How to Buy a Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is a minivan that has been around since 1995. It is available in three different generations in North America and is considered a very family friendly vehicle. The first generation of Honda Odyssey is the model that was made from 1995-1998. The second generation Honda Odyssey was produced from 1999-2004 and the third generation Honda Odyssey is the Odyssey that has been in production since 2005. There is a fourth generation of Honda Odyssey that has been made, but it is available for sale only in Japan. There are several steps you can take to purchase a Honda Odyssey.

Instructions

    1

    Visit your local Honda dealer. Whether you are interested in purchasing a new or used Honda Odyssey, your local Honda dealer can help you locate one for purchase. If the dealer does not have any new or used Honda Odysseys in stock, then he or she might be able to get another nearby dealership to ship the car to your closest Honda dealership. Honda dealerships can be found by visiting their website at honda.com. The Honda dealer also can help you determine what trim you would like to purchase your Odyssey in. It is available in four trims, which include the LX, EX, EX-L and Touring.

    2

    You may also purchase a Honda Odyssey online through autotrader.com or ebay.com. Both websites allow users to search for new, used and certified used cars, trucks or vans. By using an online source to purchase your Honda Odyssey, you will be able to shop around for the best price and purchase your Odyssey from anywhere in the country. Make sure that whoever you purchase your Odyssey from has a Carfax report on the vehicle and a clean title before you buy your Honda Odyssey online.

    3

    Search your local newspaper. Newspaper listings are one of the best places to find used cars or vans. Pick up your local newspaper and search the "for sale" section to find your Honda Odyssey. Many new car dealers do not list their cars in newspapers, but you might be able to find a well-priced used Odyssey in the generation and trim of your liking.

How to Register a Home Built Trailer

How to Register a Home Built Trailer

If you have bought or built a homemade trailer, the process of registering it for road use in your state is slightly more involved then what it takes to register a commercially built trailer. There are slight variations on the procedure from state to state, but the general requirements are the same.

Instructions

    1

    Gather all your receipts for any material used in building your homemade trailer. If you used or modified a commercially made chassis, make sure you have all the receipts associated with that work.

    2

    Take the trailer to your nearest VIN inspection station. You can tow the trailer to the inspection station as long as the vehicle towing it is registered. If you have a commercially built chassis with a VIN number, the officer at the station will conduct a NCIC check that will verify the number was not reported stolen. If your chassis does not have a VIN number, the officer will assign one and affix the VIN plate to the frame and give you the necessary paperwork.

    3

    Have the trailer inspected, usually the VIN Inspection Station can also do this. During this inspection, the officer will make sure your trailer has the running and brake lights, turn signals and, if the weight of the trailer requires it, a separate braking system. They will also evaluate the weight of the trailer and the load capacity of the chassis you have used to determine the weight limit of the trailer.

    4

    Go to your vehicle registry with all of the paperwork from the inspections, the VIN assignment, NCIC verification (if applicable) and the receipts from the construction of the trailer. Ask for an application for title and an affidavit of ownership.

    5

    Fill out the remaining forms and place them on top of your other paperwork with your receipts paper clipped together. The clerk who provides the registration for your homemade trailer will tell you the appropriate fee rates if you have not called and gotten the information before.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

How to Locate a Car Title

How to Locate a Car Title

A car's title contains information about your vehicle such as color or type. The document is also considered proof of vehicle ownership. This title is usually given to a person after the purchase of a vehicle however there are many vehicles out there that are abandoned. If you wanted to resurface the title you would have to go through various steps to complete this process.

Instructions

    1

    Different states have different laws regarding the title, however most states have a minimum cost to repurchase the title. The title is kept on file at the division of motor vehicles of the state that the vehicle was originally purchased in.

    2

    Find out the number or location of the DMV in your area. You need to call or make your way to this particular DMV.

    3

    Take your license and the proof of purchase with you, as well as the VIN number to the vehicle.

    4

    Present your license and proof of purchase of the vehicle as well as a picture or some other physical proof of the vehicle to the clerk. The cost for purchasing a copy of your title varies from state to state. It can range from $2 in Texas to just over $75 in Florida.