How to Lease Small Vans

Leasing a small van is just like leasing any other vehicle. Do your research online, find out about any current promotions or incentives currently running for the make and model you are looking at. Do your comparison shopping and find the best deal. You'll be driving your small van in no time with the satisfaction of knowing you did your homework and got a great deal.

Instructions

1

Get online and start doing your comparison shopping between the different available small vans that are available from different manufactures. Sites, such as cars.com, autotrader.com and edmunds.com, will let you compare vehicles side-by-side to help you better determine which small van will work best for you.

2

Take the list of small vans that would work for you and start pricing them out. Check manufactures websites, leasing company websites, newspapers and local dealership websites to find any incentives, rebates or current lease specials running on any one of your choices.

3

Email several Internet sales managers at different dealerships to get the best pricing you can on your new small van. Let them know that you are aware of all current incentives, rebates, residual value and other pertinent information. This will help you get the best deal with the least amount of hassle since the salesperson will have no way of hiding things like the money factor buy rate (effective interest rate) on your lease.

4

Choose the dealership that was the most upfront and straight forward with you and schedule a day and time to pick up your new small van. Ask to fill out a credit application and fax it to the dealership along with your driver's license and a current insurance card to get all of the paperwork ready before arriving.

5

Give your new small van a full walk around and check for any imperfections, including scratches, dings or dents on your new vehicle. If there are any blemishes have the finance manager that is handling your paperwork write it down on the "Due Bill" so that you have proof that you did not inflict the damage on the vehicle. This will also hold the dealership liable for fixing it rather than leaving the liability on you.

How to Buy Used Muscle Cars

Muscle cars are 1970s to 1980s performance-oriented cars. These cars have decreased in production due to the low demand. These cars have been in low demand since the 1990s due to the Japanese cars being more economical while offering comparable performance.

Ads and Auction Sites

Owning a muscle car as is a popular hobby; because of this, a variety of old muscle cars are available for buyers at auction sites and in local or internet ads. An owner will post a list or an ad with a short description about his car and the amount he believes his car is worth.

Car Condition

Age of car, number of owners, whether an engine was changed, and mileage are all important factors when choosing a muscle car. Additionally the car should be inspected by a mechanic for rust damage, engine operation, transmission condition and drive train condition. These are costly repairs that should be deducted from the price of a car.

Test Drive

Test driving a car before buying is important; this is even more true for used muscle cars. Problems may not be obvious until the car is started and driven. Interior rattling, transmission and engine responsiveness as well as the feel of suspension should be noted during the test drive.

Engine Torqe Specs

While most people concentrate solely on the horsepower rating of a particular vehicle, the flip side to the horsepower coin is torque, which can drastically impact the way in which your car performs on the road. Understanding the torque specs of your engine and what they mean in real-world performance allows you to make a more informed buying decision.

Torque Definition

Torque is defined as the force applied to the crankshaft of the vehicle from the output of the engine. Torque is measured in pounds of pressure exerted per foot (lbs/ft), with the rating provided at peak torque performance along with the engine speed at which that level of force is generated. For example, 150 lbs/ft @ 3,000 RPM.

Torque Characteristics

The torque curve of a vehicle's engine is a graph showing the maximum amount of torque generated from zero RPM to the vehicle's redline. A flat torque curve indicates a vehicle that will have little trouble accelerating steadily from even low RPMs, such as the BMW 335i. A more peaked torque curve indicates a vehicle whose acceleration capacities are dependent on the driver keeping the car in the proper rev range, such as the Mitsubishi Evo FQ-400.

Torque Practically

When purchasing a vehicle, cars that generate peak torque at lower RPMs are generally more user friendly, as you will have to perform less shifting and changing gears in order to get the most from the engine. Cars with a more variable torque curve will require more finessing on a day-to-day basis to get the most from the engine, making them less practical for individuals simply looking to drive without hassle.

Lemon Laws in Canada

Lemon laws or consumer protection laws related to vehicles have existed for a long time to avoid customers being cheated by crooked salespeople in car sales. However, while the United States has significant fanfare in the media regarding its lemon laws, Canada has taken a different approach. Consumers in the Great North need to take a different approach from that of their American counterparts.

Look to Local Laws

Locate the protection rules that apply in your specific province. Some provinces have such protections on file for their jurisdictions; others have none whatsoever.

The Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan

You can seek the help of the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP). This provides a third-party approach to resolving the disputed issues between the buyer and seller regarding the affected vehicle. An arbitration is the normal approach and the final decision is binding on the parties involved.

Law Enforcement

If you believe fraud was involved, you should discuss the matter with law enforcement. Criminal fraud is prosecuted in Canada just as much as it is in the United States. But remember, law enforcement will only act if there is sufficient evidence to do so. Make contact with your local police office to initiate discussions with officers.

The Automobile Consumer Coalition

Supporting the Automobile Consumer Coalition (ACC) could help long-term efforts for lemon laws. The ACC has been established to help advocate for official laws and regulation that support a lemon law concept. The Coalition is studying the current active model in the United States to determine which parts work best for a possible Canadian model, but nothing has officially been enacted as of March 2010.

Automobile Consumer Coalition
21B Vaughan Road, Suite 123
Toronto, ON M6G 2N2
Canada
416-651-0555
carhelpcanada.com

How to Buy Used Junk Cars

Buying used junk cars can be a profitable business for somebody with an entrepreneurial spirit and a bit of knowledge about cars. Junk cars can be stripped and sold for parts, and in some cases, they can be fixed so that they are drivable again. Junk cars also make wonderful learning tools if you are trying to gain experience working on cars for personal or professional gain. While the places to look for junk cars may not seem obvious at first, most areas have an abundance of junk cars that often sell for very little.

Instructions

1

Find a local salvage yard in your area that takes scrapped cars from the city or private donation. Many of these cars are often rusted or in generally very bad shape, but junk cars from salvage lots can be used for parts to learn about basic automotive repair. You can find salvage lots in your local phone book under Cars, Autos, or Car Parts, depending on the particular phone book and company.

2

Go to tow company auctions as often as possible. The cars at tow company auctions have been impounded by the tow company, and after a certain amount of time, they have the legal right to sell the vehicle if the registered owner does not pay the proper fees. In many cases, cars of very little value are simply not picked up, as tow fees can be more than the car is worth. Check your local phone book or online telephone directory for Towing or Tow Yards in you area.

3

Contact your local police department to see if they have police auctions that involve automobiles. Most major metropolitan cities have auctions for charity or to benefit the police force, and impounded cars are often sold at these auctions for much less than they are worth. While many of these cars are not truly junk vehicles, they do offer cars that are not drivable.

4

Check online resources for junk cars in your area. Websites like Auto Salvage Yard, Auto World of America and Ride Safely all have numerous locations that may be in your area, and many online sources for salvage and junk cars will ship and deliver cars for very little if any charge.

5

Visit online classifieds websites like Craigslist that allow private parties to sell junk cars online. Buying a junk car from a private party might save you quite a bit of money over buying from a tow yard, which often has a minimum. Of course, with all private party deals, you will most likely have to pay cash, but this is fairly standard when buying a junk car anyway, as most companies don't allow payments.

Alfa Romeo Milano Information

The Alfa Romeo Milano is the car that never was. Just weeks before its official unveiling, the Alfa Romeo Milano had its name changed to avoid a continuing controversy surrounding the automaker.

Fact

The Fiat Group owns Alfa Romeo, purchasing the automobile manufacturer in 1986.

Features

The Alfa Romeo Milano was intended to be the name for Alfa's successor to the popular 147 compact model. The Milano featured a five-door design on an entirely new platform.

Cause

In a cost-cutting move, the Fiat Group decided to remove its 230 Alfa Romeo engineers and designers from Milan, Italy, and transfer them to the corporate headquarters in Turin, Italy. This ended Alfa Romeo's 99-year history with the city of Milan, which is where the company was founded.

Solution

Alfa Romeo decided to scrap the Milano name to avoid further embarrassment from the company's decision to abandon Milan. The Milano's new name is Giulietta, the Italian equivalent of Juliet.

History

Alfa Romeo is no stranger to the Giulietta name. The company produced a car called the Giulietta from 1954 to 1965, and it remains a favorite of automobile enthusiasts.

How Does a GM Employee Discount Work?

As of 2010, General Motors offers discounts to employees on most vehicle purchases. Friends and relatives of GM employees are sometimes eligible for the same savings.

Types

There are two main discounts for GM employees: the dealer employee discount, and the friends and family discount. The amount of the discount and who is eligible for it depends on the discount.

Eligibility

For the dealership discount, you must currently work for a GM dealer for at least one month. Any person employed directly by GM, and those in their immediate family, including same-sex partners, qualify for the friends and family discount.

Size

The size of your GM Employee Friends and Family discount depends on the type of vehicle you purchase, according to GM. For dealership employees, the discount depends on your geographic location. Discounts are updated every quarter.

BMW X5 Vs. Chevy Trailblazer

The BMW X5 and the Chevrolet TrailBlazer are midsize sports/utility vehicles (SUVs) manufactured by BMW and Chevrolet, respectively. For BMW, the X5 is its debut entry into the SUV market.

Trims

The X5 offers three trims: the xDrive30i, xDrive35d and xDrive48i. The TrailBlazer's trims are distinguished by drivetrain: all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and rear drive.

Engines and Transmissions

The X5 has a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The 30i has a 3.0-liter, 260-horsepower six-cylinder engine, the 35d has 5 more horses and the 48i has a 4.8-liter 350-horsepower V8 engine. The TrailBlazer has a standard four-speed automatic transmission, with engines as high-ended as a 6.0-liter, 390-horsepower V8.

Safety Features

Standard safety features on the X5 and TrailBlazer include anti-lock braking systems (ABS); power door locks and windows; keyless entry and driver, passenger and side curtain airbags.

Interior Features

The X5 and TrailBlazer are five-seaters, with an option to expand it to seven in the former. The vehicles are also equipped with CD/MP3 stereo systems, with the option to add CD changers and navigation systems.

Exterior Features

All X5s have 18-inch alloy wheels, while the TrailBlazers can come with standard alloys that vary from 17 to 20 inches. Both vehicles have automatic daytime running and fog lights.

How to Change Car Titles in Minnesota

There are many reasons to change a Minnesota car title. You may need to change the owner information, remove an owner or lienholder from a title or correct other information on the title. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety will handle all changes to a car title within the state. You may complete changes to a car title in person at a local DPS office or by mail.

Instructions

1

Transfer ownership on a Minnesota car title. To transfer ownership, all owners listed on the title must sign off in the appropriate fields on the title. The buyer's full name, valid driver's license number and address must then be added to the appropriate fields on the title. A lien release must be attached from any potential lienholders, such as a finance company. Mail the signed title and lien release, if applicable, to DPS. There is a charge for transferring a title, it varies based on the vehicle sales tax amount.

2

Remove an owner or lienholder from a Minnesota car title. Submit a lien release and the title to a local DPS office. You can also mail in this information. Be sure to make a copy of the lien release for your own records. To remove an owner, the owner must sign off in the appropriate field on the title. They must then sell or gift the car to you as the sole buyer. Send in the signed title and a new title with you as the sole owner will be issued to you. To remove the name of a deceased person, complete the "Assignment of a Vehicle to a Surviving Spouse" form, have it notarized and submit the title and proof of death to DPS. There is a charge to correct a title and a fee to file the title.

3

Change other information on a Minnesota car title. To change an incorrect VIN, vehicle description, or the mileage, complete an "Application for a Corrected Title/Odometer." You can download the form online or fill one out at a local DPS office. If mailing, attach the completed and signed form to the current title and mail it to the DPS office in St. Paul. A new title with the corrected information will be issued to you in the mail. There is a charge to correct a title and a fee to file the title.

4

Change the name printed on the title. If you, the owner, have legally changed your name and would like the Minnesota car title to reflect that, complete the "Application for a Corrected Title/Odometer." Insert the new driver's license number next to your name on the application. If you haven't gotten a new license that reflects your new name, submit a certified copy of your proof of name change with the application in person at a local DPS office or by mail. There is a charge to correct a title and a fee to file the title.

How to Buy a Car to Resell

Buying low and selling high to make a profit is something that people do every day. It can be fun finding that great deal (or even that "once-in-a-lifetime" deal) and then turning around and selling it and pocketing the extra money. It can be a risky proposition, though, and must be done right.

Instructions

1

Look everywhere you can before settling on a car to buy. One of the best places to buy an inexpensive car that needs a little work to increase its value is online classifieds like the Craigslist car and truck section. Check the listings daily or preferably hourly and you will eventually come across a deal. Other places to look are the local newspaper classifieds, eBay and in AutoTrader.

2

Carefully inspect the car. The best scenario for is to find a car that needs no work but is cheap enough to simply turn around and sell. However, this is not the most common deal out there. Most cars that are cheap enough to make money on are going to need some work, so it is important to inspect the entire vehicle to make sure that you know what it is that you are buying and what kind of work it is going to need. Inspect the body and undercarriage for signs of rust (bubbles in the paint), check out the interior and look closely at the engine. If the car is driveable, test drive it to see how it drives.

3

Choose a car that does not need too much work. Unless you are interested in restoring a car (which can be very difficult to make any money on when you resell it) stick to cars that need minimal work to make them easy to sell for a decent price. Cars that need minor things like a new set of tires, a brake job or a tuneup are good candidates. Cars that need a rebuilt motor, paint and bodywork and a new interior may not be worth the effort.

4

Stick with models that are popular and easy to sell. With the high cost of gas today, an economical car like a Honda Civic might be easier to sell than a gas-guzzling dinosaur like a Hummer. Classic convertible sports cars like the Alfa Romeo Spider and classic muscle cars like the Ford Mustang are perennial favorites that are regularly sought by buyers. Just remember that the older and more specialized a car is the more potential there is for pitfalls.

5

Buy low. This may seem like an obvious piece of advice, but if you plan on flipping a car for profit--which is afterall the point of buying a car to sell--then you need to start by spending as little money as possible. Bargain for the best price that you can get. Start by offering the seller a lower amount of money that they probably won't accept (but try not to insult them) and then arrive at a selling price that both you and the seller are comfortable with.

How to Lease a Hyundai

Hyundai has several types of vehicles available for sale, including sedans, sport hatches, and sport utility vehicles. According to the Hyundai website, the Hyundai Genesis was named the 2009 North American Car of the Year. Consumers who want to drive a new Hyundai can get a lease at a local Hyundai dealer. Only new vehicles can be leased. A car lease is a good option for people who like to change vehicles every few years.

Instructions

1

Use a web browser to go to the Hyundai website. Use the "Dealer Locator" page to search for a Hyundai near you.

2

Click on the "Special Offers" link on the Hyundai page. Look for leasing offers on new Hyundais in your area by entering in your ZIP code.

3

Select a vehicle that you are interested in leasing from Hyundai. Visit a local dealer to view the car in person and test drive it.

4

Inquire about any special leasing offers with the Hyundai salesperson. Once you settle on a car, fill out a credit application with Hyundai.

5

Put down the required deposit. The amount will vary based on current special leasing offers and your credit score. Sign all leasing paperwork to finalize the Hyundai lease.

How to Locate the GPS Tracking System for a Chrysler 300 M

The Chrysler 300 debuted in 2005. It was big, aggressive and had a Hemi V8 engine. The Chrysler 300 was a representation of what Americans were all about. It has an "M" series that features the latest electronics, including a touch screen in the console, with a Garmin navigation system preinstalled if requested. The GPS uses the most updated pixelated images and allows for touch screen use of the stereo and climate control without risking driver safety.

Instructions

1

Open the door and slide into the Chrysler 300 M. The best way to locate the GPS system is to sit down and have a look around.

2

Push the key into the ignition and turn the switch to the auxiliary position. The console will light up.

3

Look from left to right and notice that in the middle of the dashboard is an 8.4-inch screen.

4

Count in from the left side of the screen eight items. The eighth item is the navigation button.

5

Touch your finger on the screen on top of the navigation button. You have located the GPS Tracking System for a Chrysler 300 M.

Where to Buy a Used Ford Aerostar Van

The Ford Aerostar was Ford's first attempt at marketing a minivan. After 11 years, Ford dropped the model and replaced it with the Windstar in 1997. Due to the age of the model, as well as the fact that Ford no longer makes parts for it, many Ford Aerostar vans that do go on the market are available for bargain prices. But in order to find a Ford Aerostar, you must first know where to look.

Used Car Dealers

The most obvious place to start looking for a used Ford Aerostar would be the used car dealers around where you live. In most parts of the United States, there are dozens of used car lots within driving distance of any one place; many dealers have websites where they regularly update their vehicle stock. In addition, some dealers will work with you and look into procuring the vehicle you're looking for, so long as they are assured that you will pay for the vehicle.

Car Auctions

Many used car dealers buy their vehicles for cheap from auctions. While many of the people who go to these auctions are dealership owners, the majority of these auctions are open to the public. The clear advantage is that you can buy cars for cheap, provided there isn't anyone else at the auction hall who wants the car as badly as you. The downside is that you have to pay for the car, in full, once you win the auction, so don't start bidding until you know how much you are willing to spend.

Classified Ads

When all else fails, looking through the classified ads in newspapers and online can bear fruit in your search to find and buy a Ford Aerostar. While your local newspaper will have listings for people who are relatively close to your location, online sites such as Craig's List allow you to look through thousands of classified ads all throughout your state and anywhere else you're willing to travel to get your hands on this vehicle.

Vehicle Title Fraud Information

Vehicle title fraud occurs when a dealer or private seller issues you a forged or incomplete car title. It is up to the car buyer to determine if the title is bad. However, if you are issued a fraudulent title you may seek legal restitution. There are several ways to tell if a title is bad. All used car titles must be properly inspected to ensure you are getting the original title.

The Basics

Vehicle title fraud takes many forms. The mileage on the vehicle title is often lowered, therefore, increasing the resale value of the car. Or a fake or forged title is created when the legal title is not possessed by the owner. The latter is more present today as advancements in printing technology allow anyone to create realistic forgeries at home.

Analyzing a Car Title

There is no absolute way to tell if a car title is a forgery. However, there are several red flags and warning signs to look for. First, if the title is from a different state, it is more likely to be a fraud. Second, if the car was recently purchased in your home state but has a new title issued, it may be a forged title. Finally, unclear printing, smudging or fuzzy rendering of the document itself is one more warning sign.

Verifying a Vehicle Title

If you suspect title fraud, verify the vehicle's title through the Department of Motor Vehicles or purchase a vehicle history report. If the information given to you by the DMV or the car report is not reflected in the car's title, it is probably fraudulent. Mileage readings and title changes or new title issues will be reported on the car history and available through the DMV. Title information is considered public information.

Problems with Title Fraud

Title fraud hides past accidents or major problems with vehicles because the new title will not reflect these problems. For instance, a fraudulent title created for a used car that has had a salvage title issued shows that the car is in original form, and not a salvage vehicle. This increases the price by thousands of dollars on some vehicles. Title fraud may also hide the fact that the car is stolen. If the original title is still out there, you may not be considered the actual owner of the vehicle.

Steps to Avoid Title Fraud

Demand to see the car title prior to signing a contract to purchase the vehicle. Always double-check the mileage on the car's dashboard with the mileage on the title. Review a complete accident history of a vehicle with a used car report prior to purchase. Or, get a free VIN check through the National Insurance Crime Bureau prior to purchase. Carefully inspect the car's under body to look for used parts, rusted parts or any other auto part that looks inferior or older than the vehicle itself. This is a sign the vehicle has been rebuilt or repaired extensively.

How to Determine a New Car Price

For many people, buying a new car represents one of the biggest financial investments of their lives. An average U.S. car now costs more than $28,000. Until recently, auto dealers held most of the cards when it came to pricing their cars. But with a few, easy-to-find resources, smart car buyers can assemble enough information to save thousands of dollars in base price, interest and taxes. Given that the average new car will lose as much as 20 percent of its value in the first year, finding the right price is crucial.

Instructions

1

Start with online resources to estimate the market price of a new car. There are several excellent online calculators that will give you a good range of local prices, including Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and the National Auto Dealers Association. Be precise about the model you want to buy.

2

Compare prices with local dealers. Where possible, have the dealer email or fax you a quote for the vehicle you're interested in purchasing. This will give you a good idea of the range of local prices, and it will also give you bargaining power when you start negotiating with dealers.

3

Visit car dealerships and start negotiating. New car prices can fluctuate at different times of the year. Negotiate up from the dealer price, instead of trying to bargain down from the manufacturer's suggested retail price, or MSRP. Base your offer on the total price of the car, rather than anticipated monthly payments.

Can You Use GM Points From a Credit Card on a Used Vehicle?

General Motors offers its credit card holders a fitting reward for purchasing with their card: earnings toward the purchase or lease of a car. However, the type of vehicle you can apply your earnings to is limited by rules and regulations.

Eligible Vehicles

The points you get from purchases must be used toward the purchase of an "eligible, new GM vehicle." According to the GM Card Program Rules, General Motors defines a new vehicle as a model from the current, future or past two years. Eligible models must be of the GM brand: Chevrolet, Buick, Pontiac, GMC, Cadillac and Saturn.

Ineligible Vehicles

Earned points can't be used toward GM Certified Used, Fleet or GM-owned vehicles. They also can't be used for vehicles from auctions or special events. Vehicles that are bought under GM employee and supplier programs are also ineligible.

Dealer Verification

Authorized GM dealers can verify whether or not a particular vehicle qualifies as eligible. Not all cases of ineligibility are strictly defined. Asking a qualified GM dealer to verify eligibility may be necessary.

Specifications for a 2004 Ford Focus

The 2004 Ford Focus was the fifth model-year entry for the compact car that Ford introduced to the North American market for the 2000 model year. There were three types of body styles available: the hatchback, the sedan and the station wagon. The hatchback had the most trims: the ZX3, ZX3 Comfort, ZX5, ZX3 Premium, ZX5 Comfort, ZX5 Premium, SVT 3-Door and SVT 5-Door trims. The sedan had the LX, SE and ZTS, while the wagon had the SE and ZTW.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

Only the LX sedan version of the 2004 Ford Focus came with a 2-liter, 110-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine with 125 foot-pounds of torque. The 2-liter engine of the ZX3 Comfort, ZX5 and ZX5 Comfort trims of the hatchback---as well as that of the SE---had 20 more horses and 10 more foot-pounds of torque. The hatchback's ZX3 Premium and ZX5 Premium, the sedan's ZTS, and the wagon's ZTW got the 2.3-liter, 144-horsepower engine with 149 foot-pounds of torque; and the top-level SVT hatchback had a 2-liter 170-horsepower engine with 145 foot-pounds of torque.
The standard transmission was a manual gearbox---a six-speed for the SVT and a five-speed for the other trims---although Ford provided a four-speed automatic as an option. With a 13-gallon gas tank, fuel economy, depending on trim, was 21 to 27 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 30 to 36 mpg for highway driving.

Interior

With standard seating for up to five people, the 2004 Ford Focus averaged around 39 inches in head room and leg room, 54 inches in shoulder room and 50 inches in hip room. Air conditioning and stereo system with AM/FM radio and CD player were some of the standard interior features of the car, with the higher-end trims also receiving cruise control, leather steering wheels with mounted controls and/or sunroofs. Only the SVT trims had driver multi-adjustable power seats.

Exterior

Depending on the trim, body style and type of transmission, the curb weight of the 2004 Ford Focus fell within the 2,600 to 2,800-pound range. The wagons were longer than the hatchbacks and sedans---178 inches compared to 168 inches---but all vehicles shared the same width at 67 inches, height at 56 inches, wheelbase at 103 inches and ground clearance at eight inches. The hatchback got rear wipers, and the higher-end trims received alloy wheels instead of regular steel ones.

Safety, Braking and Handling

The 2004 Ford Focus came with driver and passenger airbags, as well as a vehicle anti-theft system. Ford, however, did not give the lower-end trims like the ZX3 and ZX3 Comfort hatchbacks other features such as power/child safety door locks and power windows, and only the SVT trims got anti-lock braking. The brakes themselves were composed of two front-ventilated discs and rear drums. With rack-and-pinion steering, independent suspension, and wheel size within a 14- to 17-inch range, the turning diameter was 34 feet.

Price Range

Since it had the most trims, the hatchback version of the 2004 Ford Focus had the widest manufacturer's suggested retail price range at $12,965 to $19,330. That of the sedan was $13,425 to $15,775, while the wagon's MSRP range was the highest at $17,370 to $17,985. Depending on body type and trim, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price value range of the '04 Ford Focus at around $5,900 to $9,200 as of 2010.

How to Find a Used Minivan

Minivans are great cars for families or individuals who transport a lot of material for business. You've got many outlets for finding a used minivan within your budget. When buying a used minivan from a dealer, check with the Better Business Bureau beforehand to make sure there are no complaints. The U.S. Department of Transportation has a vehicle safety hotline that provides information of type and frequency of repairs for specific car models, so check with them before you purchase. Doing thorough research will help you ensure that your used minivan is both safe and fairly priced.

Instructions

1

List the features you absolutely need in a used minivan and create another list with amenities that you like but don't need. While most minivans have certain features in common, not all models have a rearview camera or in-floor storage. Edmunds has a lost of Top 10 minivan features with lists of models that carry those traits. Once you've determined key features, figure out your budget.

2

Shop at local dealerships to see what kinds of used minivans they have in stock. If you can't afford to pay for the minivan all at once, a dealership is a good idea. You can finance the minivan and offer a down payment up front. If you don't see the ideal car at your local dealer, let the dealer know what make or model you want. He might agree to call you if one comes in stock.

3

Tell your friends, family and coworkers that you're looking for a used minivan. If you've narrowed it down to certain models, or if you have a preference for the mileage on the car, let them know this too. Your friends or family might know someone looking to sell a minivan. If you buy from someone in your social circle, you have the advantage of trusting the seller and being able to find out honest information about past car repairs and maintenance issues.

4

Review classifieds in your local newspaper. See if any automobile auctions or used car shows are coming up, since this information will also be listed in the automotive section. Plan to attend upcoming shows or auctions to get an idea of how the auction process works.

5

Check Internet auction sites like eBay, or car sales sites like Autotrader, CarMax, or Cars.com. The downside with buying on the Internet is that you may have to arrange for vehicle transportation unless you find a seller located within a few hours from you. If you've exhausted other opportunities, however, searching on the Internet could help you find the right car. You can search by zip code, so that will at least narrow the field.

How to Buy a Classic Citroen

Citroen from the '60s still look modern today. With features such as adjustable hydraulic shocks, these French cars are both innovative and unique.

Instructions

1

Look for a Traction Avant (built from 1934 to 1957) for the classic Citroen. This car was quite innovative for its time, with front wheel drive and uni-body construction.

2

Consider a 2CV (nicknamed the Deux Cheveaux, or Two Horses) for the cute, simple Citroen. Introduced in 1949, this car has detachable hood, doors, fenders and seats. It's still in production.

3

Look for a DS for the classic '60s Citroen. The DS convertible, built from 1961 to 1971, is rare and beautiful.

4

Consider the SM, a joint venture with Maserati, which was built from 1970 to 1975. This car is very sleek and exotic-looking.

How to Buy a Ford F250 F350 Super Duty Diesel 7.3L

There's no question Ford had a winner with the Super Duty 7.3L diesel, made from 1999-2003. Here are a few tips to think about when looking for a used one. Take it from someone who's owned one for many years!

Instructions

1

Automatic Transmission-The earlier models had transmission problems. The transmission would run hot and burn up. Ford had a pro-active service bulletin and would fix the problem for free. The 1999 and some 2000 models did not have transmission cooling lines to the radiator, so Ford replaced the radiator, added cooling lines, plus a ton of other small parts. If you find an older model that has not had this change, it will set you back several hundred dollars to do so.

2

Water Pump-Coolant puddles under the vehicle after being parked. The seals go bad in the water pump and coolant leaks out of the water pump weep hole. It is a pretty big job to replace the water pump if you've never done it before and will cost $200-300, since you'll probably want to replace the hoses, coolant sensor, serpentine belt, etc. Plan on spending a lot more if you have a repair shop do it.

3

Fuel Drain Petcock-Fuel will leak from the fuel filter housing. The "O" rings in the fuel petcock located on the back of the fuel filter housing will need replacing. The repair will only cost a few cents and about an hour of your time to fix.

4

Rear Brake Calipers-The rear brake calipers stick and the rear pads will wear out prematurely. If you don't catch this in time the disc brake rotors will need replacing also. In 120,000 miles I had replaced the rear calipers and pads twice. If you do it yourself and use discount parts it will run you about $130-150. If you have a repair shop do the repairs prepare to pay 2 or 3 times that.

5

Starter Motor-At about 100,000 miles I thought my batteries needed replacing. The starter got progressively more sluggish as time when on. Eventually nothing happened when I turned the key. Turns out the brushes in the starter had completely worn out. I took the starter to a shop and had it rebuilt for half the cost of a new starter ($85), and still got a lifetime warranty.

6

Camshaft Sensor-These go bad at about 100,000 miles. When it does you'll know it. You'll go from running nice & smooth at 70 mph to not running at all. The replacement camshaft sensor is about $30. Get one from the Ford dealer. My truck was out of warranty and Ford still replaced it for free. The ones from the discount auto parts stores are a couple dollars cheaper, but they are not as good. Before I went to the dealer, I tried a 2 different sensors from the discount places. One made the truck hard to start, the other would start okay but it ran rough. Just get one from Ford and save yourself the trouble.

7

Speed Sensor-If you happen to test drive a model with non-working cruise control, the overdrive light flashing, and a non-working speedometer below 40 mph, don't let that be a deal breaker. The culprit is a $30 speed sensor, located on the rear axle. Takes about 15 minutes to replace.

8

Tires-A set of good tires for a dually will set you back $1200, about $800 for a standard model. If you find a nice example with good rubber you will be several hundred dollars ahead.

9

Fuel Mileage-These trucks are known for their excellent fuel mileage. Mine gets 23-24 mpg on the highway.

10

Modifications-A lot of these trucks have been modified over the years. Exhaust systems, turbos, computer chips, lift kits. Unless you know a reputable shop has made these modification, beware of these vehicles.

Tips on How to Buy a Used Car

Buying a used car is a great way to save money, and still get a car that meets your needs. There are many tips to follow when purchasing a used car, many of which can save you headaches, financial difficulties and more problems down the road.

Instructions

How to Buy a Used Car

1

Research the type of car you are looking to purchase. Once you have located a specific vehicle, run a CarFax report with the VIN. Some dealerships will provide one to you for free. If possible, buy a "certified" vehicle from a dealer. These cars are put through vigorous testing and checks, and are guaranteed for a certain amount of miles or years (often which ever comes first).

2

Research the amount of miles the vehicle has on it. Generally speaking, the car should have no more than 12,000 miles per year. So if you are buying a 2005 car in 2009, it should not have more than 48,000 miles on it.

3

Research how many owners the car has had. This will often show up on your CarFax report. If the car has had multiple owners in a short amount of time this could be a big red flag. It could signal a problem that could lead to costly repairs.

4

Search for the Kelley Blue Book Value of the vehicle. Knowing what the book value of that car is will help you haggle with the dealer on the price. See resources for a link.

5

Test drive the vehicle. Many used cars are sold online, but you should always take the car for a test drive to get a "feel" for the vehicle and how it handles. Seeing and driving the car in person will also help you identify wear and tear on the vehicle.

6

Call your insurance company before purchasing the car. Get an estimate of what the insurance will cost you per month for that vehicle.

7

Know your budget. Work out the maximum amount you can afford to pay for the vehicle (whether purchasing the car straight out, or financing it), and undercut that price by 15 pecent. Use this figure to negotiate with the dealer to try and save extra money.

How to Locate New Demo Cars

A new demo car is one with miles on the odometer, as it is usually driven by a dealership representative, although it is still considered new. Some dealerships offer demo cars to salespeople, managers and service personnel for their personal use. The demo is driven unregistered, meaning the buyer becomes the first owner. Some consumers may prefer a demo car because of the attendant discounts, such as an automatic discount off the sticker price, in addition to rebates or manufacturer incentives, such as low-rate financing.

Instructions

1

Go to a car manufacturer's website to locate dealers in your area. Input your ZIP code in the space provided to view websites and contact information for the nearest dealers.

2

Click on any dealership in an area you prefer to get to that dealer's individual website. Click on "new inventory."

3

Review new-car inventory to find if a demo section exists. Or, some dealerships provide the mileage on its new vehicles, so you may be able to gauge which vehicles are likely to be demo models. Some dealers do not list demo models at all.

4

Call or e-mail the dealer. Ask to have a list of demo cars e-mailed to you, or simply ask which vehicles are available. Any new-car dealer probably has several demo cars, which are all for sale.

How to Take Advantage of Electric Car-buying Incentives

The first generation of plug-in, all-electric cars is about to hit the U.S. market to compete with gasoline- or diesel-fueled cars. To encourage consumers and businesses to switch to these energy-saving, non-polluting vehicles, federal, state and local governments, as well as electric utilities, have begun to offer financial and other purchase incentives. These include tax breaks, rebates, reduced electricity rates for charging the vehicles and benefits like preferential parking and carpool lane use. Nissan USA, distributor of the Nissan Leaf electric car, maintains an easy-to-search database of incentives that you can use to help figure the cost of acquiring and owning a plug-in, all-electric vehicle.

Instructions

1

Access the Nissan USA home page on the web (see Resources). Click "Buy" on the home page's left-side navigation menu to open the linked "Buy" page.

2

Click the "Rebates and Incentives" circle, located at the 4 o'clock position of the "Buy" page spider diagram to open the page titled "Incentives Available". Input your ZIP code and click "Go".

3

Scroll down to review the available federal, state and local incentives, which are listed in that order.

4

Click the "Details" button next to each incentive to read a detailed description. Here you will also find instructions for how to file for, apply for, claim or otherwise take advantage of the individual incentives.

5

Be on the lookout for expiration dates on the incentives, such as the $2,000 federal tax credit for electric vehicle charging equipment expiring at year-end 2010. Other incentives, like the federal $7,500 buying credit, will decrease year by year.

6

Check with customer service or public relations staff at the respective institutions or entities offering the individual incentives if you have any questions after reading the descriptions on the website.

How to Buy a C5 Corvette

The C5 Corvette was first made in 1997 and its production ran through the year 2004, when it was replaced with the C6 model. Therefore, anyone interested in buying a C5 Corvette is going to have to buy it used. This means that while you may be able to save some money, you're also going to need to know a little bit more about where to look and what to look for in the car.

Instructions

1

Set a budget for how much you are willing to spend on your C5 Corvette. Since the car was produced over a number of years, and since sports cars like the Corvette often include a number of special features, the price may start at around $20,000 and climb very high if you are looking for a rare model, such as the 1998 Indy Pace Car.

2

Make a list of features that are important to you. This might include the color of the car, the year it was made, the mileage and transmission type--or something as simple as the seat fabric or the number of cup holders inside. Rank the list in order of importance to you, since it is possible that the cars you are looking at won't offer everything you want.

3

Search for used C5 Corvettes online. Limit the search to nearby areas, so you can see the car. It would be a risky decision to buy a used car that hadn't been test driven and checked out by a mechanic ahead of time. Write down the offers that interest you, including the price and the features.

4

Visit local car dealerships. Dealerships that specialize in the Chevrolet brand may have the most selection, but other dealerships are still worth checking out. Bring the information you have found online. Use it to compare prices and features, but also as a haggling tool so the dealer there knows you are well informed.

5

Test drive the cars you are interested in. If there are multiple cars that you are considering, make a list of the pros and cons of each car.

6

Have the C5 Corvette you are going to buy inspected by an unbiased mechanic before you commit to purchasing it.

What Happens to All Unsold New Cars?

When a car manufacturer introduces new vehicle models each year, the previous model year vehicles still unsold on a dealer's lot become "leftover" vehicles. These vehicles are still considered to be "new" vehicles until they are purchased and driven off the lot.

Background

Fall is traditionally the time of year that manufacturers begin shipping new model year vehicles to dealers. For example, automakers would send out their 2011 model vehicles in the fall of 2010. At that point, all of the 2010 vehicles become leftovers.

Incentives

Manufacturers are typically under increasing pressure to reduce older vehicle inventory during the fall, which means that manufacturers will be willing to offer special financing and rebates for leftover vehicles to sell them more quickly.

Advantages

One advantage of purchasing a leftover vehicle is that typically they will be available at a reduced priced compared to the newer models. Also, according to Consumer Reports, leftover vehicles that have been on a dealer's lot for a year or more tend to have fewer problems than new models.

Depreciation

Once a leftover vehicle is purchased, registered and leaves the dealer's lot, it is considered a "used" vehicle. This means that the vehicle will depreciate more quickly than a newer model, especially if the new vehicle model has been redesigned with new safety features and equipment.

How to Finance a Scooter

Financing a scooter purchase is very similar to doing the same for a car. You need to have your paperwork together before going to a lender, you need to prove an ability to pay the loan back via income or assets, collateral may be and is frequently required, and you need to have good credit. Follow these steps in the right order and the financing will work rather seamlessly. Do it wrong and you can quickly find yourself being told "no" to a scooter loan.

Instructions

Preparation

1

Identify the particular scooter you are interested in purchasing and from which dealer. You will need to know the model of the scooter, the year of manufacturing, the dealer name and finance contact, and the approximately price of the scooter with all taxes and fees involved. Some dealers may do all of this for you at the store, but it helps to secure your own loan pre-approval to get competitive rates.

2

Run a credit report on yourself prior to asking for financing. This data will give you an idea as to whether you have a good chance or not of being approved. If your credit picture is heavy with debt, you're likely going to be denied or charged a high interest rate.

3

Collect all your related paperwork together to show your identification, driver's license, proof of insurance coverage (motorcycle), and financial assets and commitments. Lenders will also need your address and Social Security number to determine your credit rating.

4

When you are ready to finance, you can go through the scooter dealer directly if he offers a financing program, or you can apply for a loan through a bank or finance lender. Either can get the financing done, but getting your own pre-approval independently allows you to compare. It also forces a dealer to offer you a better rate and finance package if he wants your loan business.

The Loan Itself

5

If you are pre-approved, you will be required to fill out a finance application with all the relevant information for a loan officer. You may be required to show proof of your data, which is why you should bring all your paperwork with you. Being prepared prevents delays, uncomfortable questions or guessing.

6

The finished application will be reviewed by the loan officer and tentatively approved. This tentative paperwork allows you to actually close the sales contract on the scooter.

7

You will be allowed to drive the scooter away at the sale, but the deal is not final until the dealer gets paid, you get your license tags and vehicle paperwork, and the bank receives its copies from the dealer. This may take a few days to accomplish. Occasionally, this window of time may go awry due to a dealer's paperwork problem at the local DMV office or a bank's payment not processing. You will be contacted if there's a problem.

How to Buy a New Car with the Stimulus

When President Obama signed his stimulus package into law, it included a myriad of incentive programs. Among these was a significant tax deduction designed for middle-class citizens. The significance of this deduction is that it allows you to purchase a new automobile while enjoying a large reduction in the amount of taxes you owe for the year. This package may only be available for a few years, so take advantage of it if you can, and enjoy your new car.

Instructions

1

Determine the effect of this stimulus package on your personal income. The stimulus package, signed into law by President Obama, designates an income tax deduction when purchasing certain cars. This is a deduction and not a tax credit. The difference is that a tax credit is a direct reduction in your tax responsibility. A tax deduction is a calculated reduction in your yearly earnings for the purpose of calculating your tax debt. This means that if you earned $60,000 during the year and purchase a car worth $30,000, your tax responsibility will be calculated as if you earned $30,000. This is important for you to know when it comes time to file your taxes.

2

Select a car that meets the requirements to qualify for this deduction. Your purchased automobile can be of any type as long as it weighs less than 8,500 pounds. The only exception to this rule is if you are purchasing a mobile home, which can surpass this weight limitation. The deduction cannot surpass $49,500 in price. If your new car exceeds this price, you can claim the first $49,500 for your deduction. This includes any car, motorcycle, light truck or mobile home.

3

Calculate your expected yearly income for the year you are purchasing the new car. As long as your yearly income is less than $125,000, you are eligible for the full deduction. The size of the deduction decreases as your income approaches $135,000, and after $135,000, you are no longer eligible for the deduction.

4

Check the current tax laws involving new car purchases for the time period when you intend to purchase your new car. The stimulus package deduction may continue into the future with congressional support, but you should be aware of the current laws for this package before you make an investment into a new automobile.

5

Keep all of your records regarding your new car purchase. You will be required to fill out a Schedule L form and attach it to your 1040 or 1040A form when filing your yearly income tax. You will need to check the box on line 40b on your 1040, or 24b on your 1040A forms.

How to Buy a Truck Below Factory Invoice

As a new truck buyer, you are looking for the best possible price. The truck dealer want to make as much profit as he can but also wants to make sure he gets the sale and moves another unit off his lot. Some prior research and sharp negotiating tactics could allow you to drive home a new truck that costs less than factory invoice.

Instructions

1

Go to the dealership where you want to purchase the truck and find the truck you want. Write down the suggested retail price, or MSRP, and all of the options and option prices. If you do not want to talk to a salesperson, go when the dealership is closed. If you go during business hours, ask the salesperson how long the truck has been in the dealer's inventory. Do not stick around to negotiate the price at this time.

2

Use one of the vehicle information and pricing websites, such as Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com) to look up the invoice pricing information on the truck you want. You want to be as accurate as possible when selecting the options for the truck to obtain the most accurate invoice price.

3

Go to the truck manufacturer's website and find the current incentive offers on the truck model you want. Your are looking for cash-rebate or cash-allowance numbers for your truck model. The manufacturer's website is the best source because many offers are specific to certain states or even ZIP codes. Once you have your cash-allowance numbers, subtract them from the invoice cost of your truck. This should be pretty close to the net cost of the truck to the dealer.

4

Go to the dealership to negotiate the best price on the truck. If the invoice cost is $30,000 and there is a cash allowance of $2,000 you can easily buy the truck for $29,000 which is technically below the invoice cost but leaves the dealer with a $1,000 profit. That is the easy way out. You want the dealer to sell you the truck at a price below his cost less the rebates. In this case, your price should be below $28,000.

5

During the price negotiation, keep your offer price below your calculation of the dealer's net invoice cost. The salesperson or sales manager should continue to make counter offers closer to your offer. If the dealer gets its price down close to the net invoice cost and won't go lower, it is time to play chicken. Leave the dealership and tell the salesperson to call you when they are ready to accept a lower price. If at this point the dealer concedes to your price, take the offer and buy your new truck.

The Best Ways to Negotiate When Buying Cars

Good negotiating skills can save you thousands of dollars when you go into the car dealership to buy a car. To have those skills you need to do your research before going to the dealer; you'll need to understand how these skills can work for car buyers.

Collect your facts

It is important to do your research before you sit down and start to negotiate on the car you want to buy. The three areas for which you need information are cost of the new car, financing options and trade-in information.

You can find the value of the car you want to buy through the Internet auto services like Kelley Blue Book, Nada Guides or Edmunds. You need the invoice cost of the car plus the optional equipment.

Call your bank or credit union and find out what the interest rate is on car loans. Have the bank calculate the monthly payment on the amount you plan on financing. The amount financed will be the cost of the new car minus the trade-in value plus any loan amount on the trade-in.

If you want to trade in a vehicle, use Internet sources to get an approximate trade-in value on your trade. Also, if there is a loan involved, find out the amount of the payoff.

Know your opponent

The car dealer's goal when selling a car is to maximize is profit on the complete purchase package. He can make money on the selling price of the car, custom upgrades, the financing, extended warranties, insurance and the trade-in. When negotiating with a buyer the dealer will often allow the buyer to be satisfied with one aspect of the purchase while making extra profits in other areas.

The goal of the car salesman and dealership is to have the buyer become emotionally excited about her new car purchase. An excited buyer is a less concerned negotiator.

During the negotiations the sales staff will focus on the monthly payment. Dealers know that for the majority of buyers the monthly payment is the most important factor in the final decision to purchase a vehicle.

At the negotiating table

Follow these guidelines when you are negotiating.

Stay calm and business-like throughout the negotiations. Even if you love the car, do not show it and act like this is just another purchase for you.

Stay focused on the selling price of the car. The important number is the difference between the price of the new car and the value put on your trade-in. You want to get the difference as close as possible to the difference between the factory invoice and the average trade-in value you calculated. Focusing on the price difference will stop the sales manager from playing games with the value of your trade-in.

Ask for the interest rate and term for all payment offers. The dealer will try to switch you to a lease or long-term purchase contract to give you a lower payment. Do not let them. Dealerships have access to lower rates than retail banks offer. In most cases they can offer you a much better finance rate than their first offer.

During the negotiation process the salesman or sales manager will ask you to make a counteroffer. They want you to focus on the down payment and monthly payment, not the price and financing terms. Your first offer should be at a price and payment lower than you calculated during your research. The offer should be at a level where the dealer loses money if they accept it but not unreasonable. They may be trying to meet a quota and sell you a car at a loss.

After your first offer, let the salesman and sales manager make a couple of counteroffers to see how close they get to your numbers. Ask them a couple of times to come back with better numbers. Your initial offer of close to a profitable car deal shows them you are a serious buyer and they do not want to let you go. Be calm and patient.

If you get to an offer where you know they are making very little profit on the car and are offering you an excellent finance package, agree to the deal. Make sure the paperwork is what you agreed to and take your new car home.

Your biggest chip in the negotiating process is the ability to get up and walk away. You must be willing to not get the car, but in doing so you may force the dealer to give you the terms you want.

Toyota Fortuner Specifications

The Toyota Fortuner is a 4x4 sport-utility vehicle with a sleek and stylish masculine profile. Outside of the new radiator grille, 17-inch alloy wheels and the new rear combination lamps, there are other specifications to consider when shopping for a vehicle like the Toyota Fortuner, the first being which drivetrain you wish to have.

4x4 Automatic Diesel

The 4x4 diesel vehicle with automatic transmission has a double wishbone suspension in the front with coil springs and stabilizers. The rear suspension has a lateral rod and a four-link suspension with a coil spring. The front brakes are ventilated discs while the rear brakes are leading-trailing drum. The drivetrain is a full-time 4x4 with shift-on-the-fly. This vehicle can seat seven people and has a curb weight of 1,945 kilograms. The model of the engine has four cylinders and a 16-valve variable nozzle turbo with intercooler. The gate-type transmission is a four-speed automatic with electronic control transmission (ECT). The headlights are projector halogen headlamps and the front grille is chrome mesh. The seat adjustment on the driver's side is six-way power, and the passenger's side is manual adjustment. The audio system comes with a six-disc CD changer with Bluetooth call function and AUX connection.

4x2 Automatic Diesel

The 4x2 diesel with automatic transmission has a 4x2 rear-wheel drive and a double wishbone front suspension with stabilizers and coil springs. The front brakes are ventilated discs and the curb weight of the entire vehicle is 1,815 kilograms. The engine has direct injection and a 16-valve turbo charger. The gate-type transmission is a four-speed automatic with ECT. The seat adjustment is manual for the driver and passenger side.

4x2 Automatic Gas

The 4x2 gas with automatic transmission has a 4x2 rear-wheel drive and a double wishbone front suspension with stabilizers and coil springs. The front brakes are ventilated discs and the curb weight is 1,725 kilograms. The engine has four cylinders and 16 valves with no turbo charge option; the fuel system is run on electronic fuel injection.

4x2 Manual Diesel

The 4x2 diesel with manual transmission has a curb weight of 1,795 kilograms and has a 4x2 rear-wheel drive. The front suspension is wishbone and has stabilizers and coil springs. The engine has direct injection with four cylinders, 16 valves and a turbo charger. The transmission is a five-speed manual and the fuel system is run on direct injection. The door trim is fabric, while the other options are leather, and the seat adjustment is manual for the driver and passenger side.

What Is an AutoCheck Score?

AutoCheck Score is a system used to report a vehicle's history based on its VIN number. This rating is offered through Experian, a credit card company, to help customers make better vehicle purchasing decisions and to help auto dealers explain vehicle history to potential buyers.

Database Model

Experian has a National Vehicle Database with vital information on more than 500 million vehicles throughout the nation. Modeling and decision analytic experts use this database to create an algorithmic score range based on similar model years and classes of vehicles. Once the VIN number is entered into the database, real-time scoring is used to determine the rating number for the vehicle. Rating numbers are calculated by information within the National Vehicle Database.

Factors

The National Vehicle Database uses information such as age, mileage, lease history, accident history and vehicle class for reaching a score. Information about an automobile's maintenance and service is not included within the database. AutoCheck focuses mainly on the historical information about a vehicle and not so much on its condition. Criteria such as theft history, commercial use and repossession statistics are used by AutoCheck when determining a vehicle's history.

Scoring

AutoCheck scores the vehicle based on a rating scale of 1 to 100. A lower Experian score doesn't necessarily mean a bad vehicle. Comparing the vehicle with others that have similar criteria is the best way to see whether it is in good condition. AutoCheck also calculates the score from scratch each time a report is requested. This is done so that data made available recently is included in the scoring.

Industrial Strength

According to Experian, industrial professionals use AutoCheck in order to deliver important and relevant information about a vehicle's history to potential customers. Auto dealers, leading U.S. auto auctions and manufacturer-certified, pre-owned programs frequently use AutoCheck. Auto dealers rely on the credible information from the Department of Motor Vehicles, salvage yards, auctions, police accident reports, and FEMA for storm-damaged vehicles, when it comes to evaluating the condition of a particular motor vehicle.

Protection

AutoCheck provides a buyback clause designed to protect consumers against unreported state title brands. Every time an AutoCheck Assured Status report is completed on an automobile, the Buyback Protection is automatically applied. This protection allows a refund up to 110% of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Used Car Guides retail vehicle price at the time of purchase. This clause also allows up to $500 in aftermarket accessories.

How to Evaluate New Cars

Shopping for a new car is an exciting time and one filled with hundreds of choices--which makes deciding on a car difficult and complicated. When you've narrowed down the field to a specific car, truck or SUV, a few steps can help you evaluate your model of choice to see if it's really the right one for you.

Instructions

1

Examine the car in person. Determine whether the overall size and style of the car is appealing to you. See if the driver's seat fits your body in a way that is comfortable and whether the back seat offers your passengers enough leg room. Note how easy it is to flatten the back seats when you need more cargo room.

2

Take a test drive. Listen for road noise and see if the car delivers a smooth ride. Test the car's acceleration, braking and handling capabilities. Notice whether the controls for the stereo, sunroof and air conditioning are conveniently located and easy to use.

3

Consider a longer test period. Sometimes your information gathering during a test drive can be hindered by a chatty salesperson or your own excitement about the car. Ask the dealer whether you can keep the car overnight so you can get in more driving time, or see if a local rental car agency offers the model you're considering.

4

Review ratings. The nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety features crash test ratings for specific models on its website, and you'll also find them on the U.S. government's Safercar.gov. J.D. Power and Associates also provides vehicle dependability ratings.

5

Talk to other owners. Ask friends, coworkers or family members who have the same make or model about their vehicle experiences. If you spot someone in a parking lot with the exact car you're considering, ask them the pros and cons of the vehicle.

6

Read professional reviews. Motor Trend, Car and Driver and Automobile Magazine publish first-person accounts of new car test drives. Consider the pros and cons cited by these authors.

Cadillac Fleet Information

Fleet vehicles are vehicles sold to companies, car rental agencies, car dealers and banks that are registered under the organization's name. Cadillac fleet vehicles include trucks, sport utility vehicles, crossovers and cars.

Truck

The 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT truck is part of the Cadillac fleet program. The Escalade EXT fleet price ranges between $61,420 and $69,000. The Escalade EXT seats up to five and gets between 10 and 14 miles per gallon in the city and between 15 and 20 mpg on the highway.

SUVs and Crossovers

Cadillac fleet SUVs and crossovers in 2010 include the 2010 SRX Crossover, the 2010 CTS Sport Wagon, the 2010 Escalade, the 2010 Escalade ESV and the 2010 Escalade Hybrid. Prices on these vehicles range from $33,330 for the SRX Crossover and $87,725 for the Escalade Hybrid.

Cars

Cars available in 2010 as part of Cadillac's fleet vehicles include the 2010 CTS, the 2010 DTS, the 2010 STS V6, the 2010 STS V8, the 2010 CTS-V, the 2011 CTS Coupe and the 2011 CTS-V Coupe. Prices for these vehicles range from $35,165 (2010 CTS) to $76,835 (2010 STS V8).

How to Get the Absolute Lowest Price on New Cars

Donald Trump calls it the art of the deal -- that way he has of turning real estate into millions of dollars. Your car salesman is no Donald Trump, but chances are he knows a lot more about making deals than you do. He practices the art of selling new cars, and you had better learn that art and use it to negotiate the lowest price possible.

Instructions

Preparation

1

Decide exactly what you need in a car. Consider safety features, the average number of miles you drive each year, cargo capacity and all the options you have your heart set on. Don't choose flash over functionality.

2

Research any rebates and other incentives available for the make and model car you have decided to buy.

3

Check website services to determine a fair price for the car. This is also a good time to research the value of your current car, if you plan to trade it in.

4

Locate area dealers who have or could get the car you want. Send emails to each dealer's Internet manager, detailing what is nonnegotiable, such as model and make, and what is negotiable, such as a sunroof or rear spoiler.

5

Schedule a time to test drive the car. If possible, choose a weekday morning because dealership activity is usually slower at that time,

6

Call your bank to discuss loan options. Dealer financing is usually more costly.

At the Dealership

7

Discuss what the dealer will give you for your current car. Tell him your decision to buy a new car at his dealership depends on the trade-in deal. Of course, you can always change your mind and sell the car yourself.

8

Ask the dealer for his best price in writing, then visit at least two other dealerships to comparison shop. Tell each dealer up front that you are not interested in add-ons, such as tinted windows. Dealers often boost their profit by including overpriced add-ons that the buyer did not request.

9

Get price quotes from the second and third dealers. Remember that the sticker price does not tell the whole story. Keep track of all that comes with each dealer's total package.

10

Decide which dealer you will buy from and close the deal, but not before asking if the contract will include any handling or other fees you have not discussed. Take home a worksheet with all the facts and figures for further review.

Taking Delivery

11

Ask the dealer to deliver the car and contract to your home or office. You'll feel more comfortable on your own turf, and since the contract will already be drawn up, you will avoid a last-minute push for financing and add-ons.

12

Compare the typed contract to the worksheet line by line to be sure nothing has changed.

13

Check the automobile for dents or other problems, and be sure all the options spelled out in the contract have been included.

Value of a Rebuilt Title Vehicle

A rebuilt title vehicle, also known as a salvage vehicle, has undergone major repairs following a collision. Its value is 10 percent to 50 percent lower than the value of a comparable non-rebuilt vehicle.

Title terms

A vehicle with a rebuilt or salvage title has a certificate of title that indicates the vehicle was repaired after a major accident. Look for the terms salvage, repaired or junk on the certificate of title.

Benefits

Vehicles with rebuilt titles sell for much less than those with clean titles.

Warning

When a vehicle is issued a rebuilt title, you might have difficulty insuring or financing the car. Many lenders will not finance an asset that has been devalued as much as a rebuilt car, and insurance companies might provide liability insurance but not collision coverage.

Identification

Vehicles with rebuilt titles have a title printed on a different color stock than clean titles. The color varies by state.

Potential

If you like to purchase vehicles and keep them for many years, a rebuilt vehicle can be a good purchase. However, you might find it difficult later to sell your vehicle to a private party, as many are uncomfortable purchasing a vehicle with significant previous damage.

How to Buy New Cars Through Costco

When you think of Costco, you may not automatically think of purchasing cars through the company best known for wholesale products. However, the Costco Auto Program retails vehicles at a low cost under the Costco name. Not only are pre-owned cars available through the Costco Auto Program, but new vehicles are as well. Using the Internet, Costco members can easily view the inventory of participating dealerships to decide if the Costco program will benefit you.

Instructions

1

Become a member of Costco. Before you can access any of the program features, you need to join the wholesale club. Prices to join the club start at $50 annually. To sign up, visit a Costco retail location or go to the Costco website.

2

Browse new car prices on the Costco Auto Program website. The listings are intended to give you reference information when you contact a participating Costco auto dealership. Member prices will not be revealed until you meet with a Costco car dealer.

3

Locate a Costco dealer in your area. You can call the Costco Auto Program hotline at (800) 755-2519 or use the website to find a nearby dealer. Click on "Locate a Dealer" on the program website and then put in your zip code, car make, model and year to find the closest dealership.

4

Wait for the dealer to contact you. Once you make a request to locate a dealer through the website or hotline, a Costco-participating auto dealership will contact you, typically within 24 hours. He will provide the location of the lot.

5

Meet with the dealer to examine the vehicle. You'll be asked to display your Costco membership card. Compare the price quoted to you with the prices you have researched through the Costco Auto Program website. If you decide to purchase the car, you'll have to sign the purchasing contracts and go through a credit check.

How to Compare Small 2008 Cars

If you are looking for a small 2008 car, you will be pleased to discover a large selection. The 2008 compact car lineup includes models such as the Chevy Cobalt, Ford Focus, Dodge Caliber, Honda Fit, Nissan Versa and the Volkswagen Jetta. Fuel efficiency continued to be important during this model year, and you can find cars with an EPA MPG range of 18 to 33 miles per gallon. Online car research sites can help you compare small 2008 cars.

Instructions

1

Look at the body styles of small cars released in 2008. Most 2008 compact cars have one of five body types: two-door coupe, four-door sedan, four-door hatchback, two-door convertible and four-door wagon. You can view the various body types for each 2008 compact vehicle on car research sites such as the Automotive Consumer Guide website.

2

Compare the gas mileage of 2008 small cars. Fuel efficiency is often an important consideration when looking at small vehicles. Some examples of 2008 compact vehicles with good fuel efficiency include the BMW 328i, Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Civic Hybrid and Ford Focus.

3

Determine the price ranges of small 2008 compact cars. You can find economical small cars from the 2008 year starting as low as $12,000 to $15,000 for a base model. These models include the Nissan Versa, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Spectra. Although sporty compact cars, like the Subaru Impreza and Pontiac G5, can start as high as $16,000 for a base model.

4

Read online reviews to make further comparisons between small 2008 cars. Review sites, such as automotive.com, will give you a rundown of the interior, exterior, specifications and driving impressions. Use this information to compare transmission types, engine models, safety equipment and upgrades available.

Advice on Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can save you money. If you're in the market for a used car, it's important to balance the desire to save money against the features you need and want. It's also important to make sure that the car you buy is safe and reliable. By doing research and following a few suggestions, you can assure yourself of getting a good deal on a used car.

Assessing your Budget and Needs

If you just need a car to get to and from work, you will have different criteria than someone who does a lot of long-distance driving, or another person who hauls cargo or does a great deal of towing in a car. You should also draw up a realistic budget. While you don't want to buy a heap, flashy bells and whistles may add cost to a car that can be better applied to updated safety features or a newer model.

Research the Market

Buying used cars has changed a lot since the days of the fast-talking dealer stereotyped in movies and on TV. One important change is that many used cars are pre-certified and come with warranties. This takes away much of the risk of buying a used car. Especially if you are in the market for a late-model used car, you may be able to find many, if not all, of the newest features available on new cars. Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds, among other services, provide comprehensive reviews of cars by make and model. Check out what's available thoroughly--compared with what you are seeking and your budget--to help you narrow down your choices.

Choosing a Used Car

If you've found a particular car you like, you should research its history to determine whether there have been major repair problems or if it has been involved in a serious accident. Many car dealers perform their own inspections on their cars. Check out what is included in their inspections, but don't rely on them alone. CARFAX provides a vehicle history service for a very reasonable price. You will need the VIN number, which can be often found in the vehicle title or under the windshield. You should also have a mechanic inspect the car if it is not certified or does not carry a warranty. Nearly all reputable dealers will agree to this. Of course, you'll want to take the car out for a test drive.

Getting the Best Deal

Run a price comparison for the make and model car you have chosen to buy, to get a range of prices. You can use this range to negotiate your final price with the dealer. If you are trading in a car, get the Kelley Blue Book value of your car and use that to negotiate a fair trade-in price.

Loans are available through a bank or credit union, through online lenders or directly through the dealer. Obtain loan approval before you begin shopping for your car if you plan to seek financing from a bank, credit union or online lender. Your credit rating will also influence the financing you will be able to receive; especially the way you have handled car financing in the past.

Difference Between the Mazda6 & Mazda3

The Mazda3 and Mazda6, while sharing several option packages, are two entirely different vehicles. The Mazda3 is positioned as a small car in the automotive marketplace, while the Mazda6 is considered a midsized sedan. Different styling cues further differentiate the models, with the Mazda3 sporting a much more youthful design theme, while the Mazda6 appears more practical and refined. Other differences include engine choices and interior trim packages.

Engine and Transmission

The Mazda6, being a larger car than the Mazda3, is powered by a 2.5-liter dual overhead camshaft engine. This engine produces 170 horsepower while delivering 31 miles per gallon. The Mazda3 is powered by a 2.0-liter dual overhead camshaft engine that produces 148 horsepower and returns 33 miles per gallon. The Mazda6 has an available six-speed manual transmission as well as an available five-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda3 has a standard five-speed manual transmission as well as an available five-speed automatic.

Body

The Mazda6 is a larger car than the Mazda3. Its sporty character comes from the Mazda RX-8, notably its pronounced front fenders, grill and emblem. The Mazda3 is a smaller car featuring a front grill that portrays a large, toothy smile and headlights that beam like an overjoyed kid.

Interior Options

The Mazda6 offers much more legroom than the Mazda3, and has more interior passenger room, at 101.9 cubic feet. The Mazda3 interior, meanwhile, measurese 94.1 cubic feet. Other interior options such as seating surfaces, vehicle amenities and trim are similar between the two cars.

Pricing

There are six option packages available for the Mazda6, including a grand touring edition with an optional V-6 engine which carries an MSRP of $29,320. The base price of the Mazda6 is $19,990. By contrast, the Mazda3 base MSRP is $15,800 and can be optioned as a grand touring package for $22,510. All prices are effective as of March 2011.