How to Pay Half Price for Cars

An automobile is an important investment and a frequently expensive one. A car is a person's freedom as far as getting to and from work and other places without having to rely on someone else or wait for public transportation. Unfortunately, even used cars are usually costly and may be out of a buyer's pay range. If you want to get a car for half-price or cheaper, you really need to do your research and know where to look.

Instructions

1

Know the value of the cars you are looking at. Kelley's Blue Book and Edmunds are two free resources that can help you estimate the market value of a vehicle. This helps you figure out how much of a discount to shoot for.

2

Visit as many private sellers as possible. There are numerous ads for privately sold used cars online, in auto trade publications and in the classifieds of any local newspaper. While these vehicles could have more mechanical problems than those found at a dealership, you're more likely to get the steep discount you need as a result, depending on the needs of the seller and why he is selling the car.

3

Sign-up for an advertising program. These "Free Car" or "Get Paid to Drive" programs either give you a car to drive that has advertisements on it or place ads on a car that you provide but they pay you for it, which helps cover the price of the vehicle. You then drive around and they get advertising while you get transportation. These programs are most common in larger cities or near university campuses and they can be competitive to get into.

4

Visit public car auctions. This is probably where you'll find the best deal on a car unless you locate a private seller looking to unload a car very cheaply. The auctions consist of cars that were repossessed and the car companies simply want to get rid of them and recoup some of their investment. Police seizures are also included in these auctions and some very nice cars can be sold more then 50 percent below their resale value.

5

Contact rental car agencies to see if they are selling any of their inventory. Rental agencies frequently turn over their stock so their cars never have too high mileage on them that would make them unattractive to renters. The vehicles are normally well-maintained and could be sold at bargain prices if the renter hasn't been able to sell a car to a dealer.

6

Lease a new car. While you don't get to keep the car as your personal property, your car payments can be 50 to 60 percent less than the payments required to buy the car outright.

How to Calculate the Value of a Car Loan

The true value of a car loan is usually greater than the amount borrowed. It can, in fact, be significantly higher depending on the interest rate of the loan. If you would like to buy a car, but need to borrow a large chunk of money to do it, you should first determine the total cost of that loan once you have paid it back. That way you can get a better idea about whether you can truly afford it.

Instructions

1

Write this equation for the total amount of a car loan:

Value of Loan = ((P x (i/12)) / (1 - (1 + i/12)^-m)) x m

P = principal, or amount borrowed
i = interest rate in decimal form
m = total number of monthly payments
^ = symbol that means "to the power of"

2

Determine the interest rate, principal and duration of the loan that you are considering. For example, consider a 36-month loan for $12,000 at 7.5 percent interest:

P = $12,000
i = 0.075
m = 36

3

Insert the numbers into their proper variables in the equation for the total value of the loan. Use a calculator to find the final value.

Value of Loan = (($12,000 x (0.075/12)) / (1 - (1 + 0.075/12)^-36)) x 36 = $13,437

The total value of the loan is $13,437.

How to Evaluate & Compare Used Car Performance

When purchasing a used car, it is possible to get caught up in superficial matters: the color of a car, the persuasiveness of the seller and the attractiveness of a vehicle. While the features of a car and the trustworthiness of the seller should be considered, the performance of a used car is of the utmost importance. Before choosing a used car to purchase, evaluate and compare the performance of each vehicle. This will help to ensure that the car that you choose functions properly.

Instructions

Physical Inspection

1

Look at the visible aspects of a car: Does the equipment under the hood look correct? Is there any visible damage on the car's exterior? Are the car's tires inflated properly? Inspect the car for any warning sides of tampering or misuse.

2

Test drive each car that you are considering purchasing. Think about the way each car drives. Are you happy with the turning radius? Do the brakes function properly? Do you sense that the steering wheel is loose? Keep in mind that not all cars have the same driving style, however, if you feel that a car is not driving properly, trust yourself.

3

When you finish test driving cars, create a list of the pros and cons of each used vehicle. In one column, write down the positive features of each car, and in the other, write down the negative features. Compare the positives and negatives of the car's performance, looks and features. Based on your lists, determine which cars best fit your needs and desires.

Research

4

Research the makes and models of each car that you are considering using a website such as edmunds.com. You may find that one vehicle works well with minimal repairs, whereas another vehicle may need more repairs and part replacements to run smoothly. If a car often needs replacement parts, speak to the seller to see if the parts have already been replaced or will likely need replacement in the near future.

5

Speak to a manager at a car dealership that sells the type of car you're considering. Discuss any concerns you may have about the cars, and ask him to clarify whether your concerns are valid or not.

6

Write down the vehicle identification number of the cars that you are interested in purchasing. Using a resource such as carfax.com, research the history of the vehicles. This type of resource will teach you about a car's history, mileage and other factors that will alert you of previous problems and possible fraud.

Matrix Xrs Vs. Mazda 3

The Toyota Matrix (in this particular case, the XRS trim) and the Mazda3 are marketed as compact youth-oriented cars. Although the Mazda3 is generally richer feature-wise, the XRS comes the closest in matching it from among the different Matrix trim packages.

Trims

The XRS is up against two Mazda3 trims: the base "i" and the uplevel "s." Those are split into Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring packages. While the XRS--as all other Matrix trims--is only available in hatchback, the Mazda3 is available in both hatchback and sedan.

Engines and Transmission

The Matrix XRS comes with a 1.8-liter, 132 horsepower inline 4-cylinder engine, with 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmission options. The Mazda3's 4-cylinder engines vary in capacity (2 to 2.5 litres) and horsepower (144 to 167); and the choices in transmission are 5- and 6-speed manual, as well as 5-speed automatic.

Safety Features

Child safety door locks, anti-theft systems, ABS braking and electronic assistance, vehicle stability control, and power windows are some of the standard features in both vehicles. However, trunk anti-trap devices are additional in the Mazda3.

Interior Features

Air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering wheels, and CD-stereo systems are standard in the Matrix XRS and all Mazda3 trims. The Mazda3, however, has features that are not available in the Matrix, such as a multi-adjustable driver's seat.

Exterior Features

The Matrix XRS has standard 18-inch alloy wheels. The Mazda3 wheels vary by trim level, with the lower-end ones getting 16-inch steel wheels and the higher-end ones fitted with 17-inch alloys. While the XRS has daytime running lights (a feature that is not available at all in the Mazda3), most Mazda3s have fog lights, and a few of them are equipped with HID lamps.

How to Figure Out the Tax, Title & Tags for a Used Car

Vehicle tax differs greatly not only by state, but by residing county. Fees differ by state. Both fees and tax differ if you receive the vehicle as a gift or as a transfer from a family member. Some states figure tax based on property taxes, like North Carolina. For this reason, you must contact your Department of Motor Vehicles to determine correct fees.

Instructions

Determine Your Fees

1

Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Ask what the vehicle sales tax is in your county and write the number down. Ask if your situation applies to this tax--whether this vehicle is a normal sale purchase or if it is a transfer from a family member, inheritance or gift. The latter has its own rules that are determined only by the DMV.

2

Ask your local DMV what the title and tag fees are in your area. Tell the representative if you plan to purchase privately, in which case you have to do all of your transactions at the DMV, or if you plan to transfer plates or get new ones. Your fees remain the same for a dealer. Write all fees down.

3

Ask your DMV or dealer representative, if buying from a dealer, if your trade-in is tax deductible, if applicable. Ask if you pay tax on MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price) before incentives or rebates, or after, if purchasing a brand new car. Note all of this information to do your math.

Figure Your Price

4

Start with your sales price to figure out tax. If purchasing a brand new car, subtract the incentives or rebates if your state allows the vehicle to be taxed on this price. If not, start with the MSRP or negotiated starting price. Start with the selling price of the car if it is used.

5

Deduct your trade-in amount from the starting price if buying from a dealer. Start your figures from this price if you have a trade-in situation--you cannot be taxed on the same vehicle twice, as you paid taxes on your original vehicle.

6

Multiply the price your taxable price by the interest rate. Use a calculator. Input the starting price and multiply it by the rate by either entering the rate as a percentage if your calculator allows, or as a decimal. Convert the percentage into a decimal by inputting the decimal followed by the tax rate, which should like this: ".07" for seven-percent, ".075" for 7.5-percent or ".0335" for 3.35-percent.

7

Take your result, which is the tax amount, and add it to the sales price. Deduct any incentives or rebates for a new car if you determined that you are taxed on MSRP instead and add the fees you noted from the DMV for your title and tags..

2006 Jeep Liberty Renegade Information

Replacing the Jeep Cherokee as from the 2002 model year, the Liberty is a compact SUV made and sold by the Chrysler marquee, Jeep. The 2006 Jeep Liberty is one of the last model-year entries for the vehicle's first generation of production. Its Renegade trim--with two/rear-wheel (2WD) and four-wheel (4WD) drive incarnations--is placed between the base Sport and the luxurious Limited trims.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

The 2006 Jeep Liberty Renegade comes with a 3.7-liter 210-horsepower V6 engine with 235 foot-pounds of torque. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual with overdrive. However, a four-speed automatic with overdrive is also available.

The SUV features a 21-gallon gas tank. Fuel economy varies slightly according to type of transmission. The vehicles with manual transmission achieve 18 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 22 mpg for highway driving. For those with automatic transmissions, it is 17/22 mpg.

Safety Features

The standard safety features of the 2006 Jeep Liberty Renegade include power/child safety door locks, vehicle anti-theft system, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake assistance, traction control, vehicle stability control system, driver and passenger airbags and keyless entry. Side head curtain airbags and remote ignition are optional features.

Interior

With a cabin large enough to accommodate up to five people, standard interior features of the 2006 Jeep Liberty Renegade include power windows, A/C system, leather steering wheel with mounted controls, AM/FM/CD stereo system, cruise control and tire inflation/pressure monitor. Some Renegade vehicles also feature navigation systems, sunroofs, leather seats, driver and passenger multi-adjustable power seats, CD changers and/or subwoofers.

Exterior

As a four-door vehicle, the 2006 Jeep Liberty Renegade features 16-inch alloy wheels with a wheelbase of 104 inches and a turning dimension of 36 feet. The vehicle measures 174 inches in height, 72 inches in width and 70 inches in height with a 6-inch ground clearance. Automatic headlights, fog lights, power side windows and deep tinted glass are some of the Renegade's standard exterior components.

Price

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price of the 2006 Jeep Renegade's 2WD version was $23,130. For the 4WD, it was $24,640. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the price value range of the vehicle at around $13,600 to $14,000.

How to Determine Paint Thickness

Determining the paint thickness on a car can be one of the most important things a person can do when trying to decide if you want to purchase a car at an auction. The paint thickness on a car can provide clues to its history, such as whether or not it has been damaged or repainted. Routine paint thickness for untouched vehicles should be about 125 microns, which is the standard term that paint thickness meters provide readouts in.

Instructions

1

Become familiar with your paint thickness meter. Various models have different instructions, so be sure to read the ones provided by the manufacturer carefully.

2

Look for variations or differences in color, texture and gloss on the whole car. Any area that looks suspect should be tested.

3

Examine the car for signs of overspray (extremely small droplets of paint) on accessories, windows and fender wells.

4

Investigate areas that are often involved in accidents, such as the fenders, bumpers, and side doors.

5

Use the paint thickness meter to test any areas of the car that seem suspect. To test, simply press the electronic device against the car and make a note of the reading on the screen. It is advisable to test in several places on any given vehicle.

Advantages of Buying a Used Car

Deciding to buy a used car over a shiny, new car can seem like a disadvantage. After all, new cars usually run without any mechanical repairs within the first few years. You will be the first and only owner of a new car. And new cars reflect the latest in technology and automotive style. But there are also advantages to buying a used car.

Affordability

Since there are so many used cars available for sale, it is likely that you can find one that you can afford. Many buyers can find a used car for as cheap as $500. And many used cars sellers are open to negotiation, which further increases the chance of you getting the used car you want at a great deal.

No Monthly Car Note

Many buyers of used vehicles will pay cash versus buyers of new vehicles. Since there is no financing attached when paying cash, used car owners will not have a monthly note attached to their purchase. You can, however, finance a used vehicle through your bank if you need to. Used car dealers will have financing available at their dealerships. And banks can approve you a car loan for used vehicles. Some banks, however, prefer that the vehicle not be too many years old. You have to check with each financier for their specifications.

Cheaper Insurance and Registration Rates

Insurance rates are often cheaper for used vehicle owners. Insurance rates will often decrease as the age of the vehicle increases. Replacement cost and repair for those vehicles are often cheaper as time goes on. Many states will also charge less to register vehicles that as they get older. So those buying a used vehicle will save money on registration fees versus new car owners.

The Pros on a Mitsubishi Lancer

The Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact family car with a performance pedigree. It's economical, sleekly styled and its standard engine provides enough power to put its competitors of the same class to shame. The high-strung 2011 Evolution X is common in drifting competition and rally road races. The Evo's street credibility rubs off on the standard Lancers to give the car an image boost.

Background

Mitsubishi began producing the Lancer in 1973. For a brief period in the late 1970s, Dodge re-badged the Lancer as a Dodge Colt when Dodge's parent company, the Chrysler Corp., struggled to develop its own economy compact cars. The Lancer toiled in relative obscurity until the Evolution model emerged in 1992. Although its body style was nothing special in the 1990s, the Evo sported a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine. It became an instant street car and North American buyers began to take notice of the other Lancer models.

Models

There are more pros than cons to the Mitsubishi Lance. It offers a wide range of models and the price tags fit most budgets. The 2011 Lancers come in six styles: The base DE, the mid-range ES, the Sportback hatchback, the sporty GTS, the ES-Sport and the Evolution X. The Evo has two sub trim levels: The base GSR and the upscale MR version. The ES-Sport, which combines the best elements of the ES and GTS models, debuted in the United States in 2009. The Sportback arrived in the U.S. in 2010. The benefits of any of these models are the smooth handling combined with the sporty styling, even for the DE and ES versions. The Lancers look expensive, but the DE can be had for less than $16,000, at the time of publication. The hatchback models feature good access to the cargo area and adequate space.

Under the Hood

Perhaps the greatest asset for the 2011 Lancers is its turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine. The engine matches with a five-speed manual transmission and features a 9-to-1 compression ratio with a 3.4-inch bore and 3.40-inch stroke to develop an impressive 295 horsepower and 300 foot-pounds of torque. The Evo X is equipped with a Twin Clutch Sportronic shift transmission to complement the turbo. For conservative drivers, the DE and ES models tone things down with the same engine sans the turbocharger option. Mitsubishi boosts the compression ratio on the standard 2-liter to 10-to-1. It wields 152 horsepower and 146 foot-pounds of torque. A slightly detuned version for California sales generates 143 horsepower.

Evo X

The 2011 Lancer Evo X GSR is equipped with a five-speed manual and is decked out in Recaro sport seats, optional spoiler, upgraded audio system, high-intensity headlamps and Enkei wheels. In addition to the continuously variable transmission, the MR gets Bilstein shocks, Eibach springs, BBS forged-alloy wheels, lightweight disc brake rotors, more sound deadening insulation, GPS, leather seats and an even better stereo system than the GSR. Both Evo trim levels feature Bluetooth and iPod adaptability and a USB port. The 10th generation Evo X marks a continuing evolution in the model as it continues to distance itself from the no-frills street machine of the 1990s to become more comfortable while still delivering high performance.

Specifications for the 2007 Honda Accord Coupe

The 2007 Honda Accord---the last model-year entry for the seventh generation of production for the best-selling mid-size car---had a coupe as one of the two body styles available. The 2007 Accord coupe had the luxurious LX and top-level EX trims, each with different combinations of engines and transmissions.

Engines, Transmissions and Fuel Economy

A 2007 Honda Accord coupe came with either a 2.4-liter, 166-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine with 160 foot-pounds of torque or a 3-liter, 244-horsepower V6 engine with 211 foot-pounds of torque. The four-cylinder engine had a 3.43-inch bore, 3.9-inch stroke and 9.7-to-1 compression ratio, while the V6 had a 3.39-inch bore and stroke, and 10-to-1 compression ratio. There were three choices of transmission: a five-speed automatic, a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. With a 17-gallon gas tank, the 2007 Accord coupe got a range of 20 to 26 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 29 to 34 mpg for highway driving, depending on engine and transmission.

Interior

With standard seating for up to five people, the 2007 Honda Accord coupe had about 37 inches for headroom, 40 inches for legroom, 56 inches for shoulder room and 50 inches for hip room. Air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, steering wheel-mounting controls and AM/FM/CD player were some of the vehicle's standard interior features. Some of the higher-end trim combinations also received other features such as CD changers, sunroofs and leather seats.

Exterior

As a two-door vehicle, the 2007 Honda Accord coupe was 189 inches long, 71 inches wide and 56 inches tall with a 105-inch wheelbase. Depending on trim combination, curb weight and wheel size was within 3,100 to 3,300 pounds and 15 to 17-inch range, respectively. Daytime running lights with automatic headlights, alloy wheels and power side mirrors were some of the 2007 Accord coupe's standard exterior features.

Safety, Braking and Handling

Driver, passenger, front side and side head curtain airbags were standard on all 2007 Honda Accord coupes. Power door-locks, vehicle anti-theft system, anti-lock braking, trunk anti-trap device and keyless entry also came standard. Some of the higher-end trim combinations had electronic brake assistance, traction control and avehicle stability system. The vehicle had two front ventilated disc and rear drum brakes, and the independent suspension consisted of wishbone design with stabilizer bar and coil springs in the front and multi-link design with coil springs in the rear. The turning diameter was measured at 35 feet for all trim combinations, except for the EX vehicles with V6 engines at 39 feet.

Price Range

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the basic 2007 Honda Accord coupe, the LX, was $20,475. On the other side of the spectrum, the EX with a V6 engine, an automatic transmission and navigation system had the highest MSRP at $29,500. As of 2010, Kelley Blue Book estimates the value price range of the 2007 Honda Accord coupe at about $14,000 to $16,000.

1996 Toyota Tacoma Information

Introduced in 1995, the Tacoma--Toyota's now mid-size pickup truck--made its second model year entry the following year. The 1996 Tacoma had four main trims: Regular Cab, Xtracab, V-6 Xtracab and SR5 Xtracab. All trims except for the SR5 had rear-wheel (2WD) and all-wheel (4WD) drivetrain versions; the SR5 only had 4WD.

Engine and Transmission

Three engines were available for the 1996 Toyota Tacoma. The Regular
Cab 2WD and Xtracab 2WD had a 2.4-liter, 142-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine. The Xtracab 4WD had the 2.7-liter, 150-horsepower in-line four-cylinder engine. The Regular Cab 4WD, V6 Xtracab 2WD and 4WD and SR5 Xtracab 4WD had the 3.4-liter, 190-horsepower V-6 engine. The five-speed manual transmission was made standard on all trims. However, some vehicles, apart from the Regular Cab 4WD, came with the four-speed automatic gearbox instead.

Fuel Economy

The fuel economy of the 1996 Toyota Tacoma varied according to type of engine and transmission. The vehicles with the 2.4-liter engine and manual transmission had the best gas mileage, with 23 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 28 mpg for highway driving. Those with the V-6 engines recorded the poorest gas mileage, at 17/19 mpg.

Interior Features

Standard interior features of the 1996 Toyota Tacoma included driver airbags and AM/FM stereo system. The Xtracab had the largest cabins, big enough to seat up to five people. On the other side of the spectrum was the Regular Cab, with the SR5 placed in the middle.

Exterior Features

The 1996 Toyota Tacoma came with 15-inch wheels. Only the SR5's wheels are alloy; the other trims have steel wheels.. The 1996 Tacoma also includes front and rear black bumpers, tinted glass and underbody protection for the fuel tank.

Price Range

The original manufacturer's suggested retail price range for the 1996 Toyota Tacoma ranged from $12,028 for the Regular Cab 2WD to $22,228 for the SR5 Xtracab 4WD. As of 2010, the price value range for a 1996 Tacoma is estimated at $4,000 to $6,500, according to Kelley Blue Book.

How to Check the History of a Used Car

Vehicle history reports reveal a lot of useful information about a car. A vehicle history will show you, among other things, if the car is stolen, if it's been flooded or if it's been wrecked. You can also discover odometer rollback. In short, if you are thinking about buying a used car, learning a car's history will help you make an informed purchasing decision. The key to finding out all this history is through the car's VIN, an acronym that stands for vehicle identification number. It is a unique code that every vehicle is assigned. It's like a car's fingerprint.

Instructions

1

Ask the seller for the car's VIN. It will be a 17-character code.

2

Find the car's VIN yourself if the seller will not provide it. The VIN can be found on the vehicle's title and registration, on insurance cards and on the car itself. Look on the driver's side dashboard or on the inside of the driver's door frame when you open the door.

3

Find an online site where you can run a free VIN check to obtain the car's history. One such site is the nonprofit National Insurance Crime Bureau, also known as the NICB. (See the Resources section.)

4

Input the VIN number into the search form to obtain the car's history. On some sites, you can pay to run unlimited checks for a certain amount of time, useful if you will be checking several cars as you search. At the NICB, you can conduct five searches within 24 hours.

What Are the Cargo Area Dimensions for a Mazda 5?

The Mazda 5 is a large minivan that delivers up to 153 horsepower and still maintains a fuel-efficient 28 mpg in the city. The car features a 4-cylinder engine, which is available in either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. With seating for six, the car is suited for individuals with cargo space needs or larger families.

Dimensions of Exterior

The Mazda 5 is 181.5 inches in length, 69.1 inches wide and 64.2 inches tall from the tires to top of the vehicle.

Dimensions of Interior

Interior headroom in the Mazda 5 is 40.7 inches in the front, 39.4 inches in the middle seating and 37 inches in the rear seating. The shoulder room for the car is 55.5 inches in the front, 55.6 inches in the middle seating area and 49.2 inches in the backseat. For leg room, the vehicle provides 40.7 inches in the front, 35.2 inches in the middle seating and 30.7 inches for the rear seats.

Dimensions of Cargo Area

The Mazda 5 is a hatchback, which allows the driver to fold down the rear seats and have more cargo space for larger items. The vehicle's total interior volume is about 142.1 cubic feet. When the rear seats are folded down, the car has 44.1 cubic feet of usable cargo area.

How to Transfer Car Tags in Kansas

The State of Kansas issues car tags through individual county offices. If you trade your old car in on a different one you may transfer the tags from the old car to the new one as long as you have not moved since your previous registration. You may transfer from car to car or from truck to truck, but not from car to truck or vice versa. You may physically transfer tags at the time you take ownership of the new vehicle, but must register with your county office within 30 days.

Instructions

1

Physically transfer license plates from the old vehicle to the new vehicle at the time of sale.

2

Keep the bill of sale in your vehicle until you have registered it.

3

Bring the bill of sale, proof of insurance and your personal identification to your local county treasurer's motor vehicle office. The clerk will collect any applicable fee and issue you registration documentation.

Difference Between a Honda Accord LX & LXP

Buying a new family sedan in can be a confusing and time consuming experience. Many new car buyers have chosen the Honda Accord. The Accord sedan is generally considered reliable, safe and stylish, and it has routinely beaten its competitors in estimated resale value. As of 2010, there are two models of the Honda Accord 4-door sedan, the LX and LX-P.

LX Features and Price

The Accord is also sold in coupe form but this is not the best selling variant.

The Honda Accord LX is the most basic model in the lineup, priced at $21,055 in 2010 for a 5-speed manual transmission equipped variant and $21,855 for a model equipped with a five-speed automatic. The Honda Accord LX comes with a standard 2.4 liter 177 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, air conditioning, cruise control, steering wheel mounted audio controls, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, anti-lock brakes, a complement of six airbags, traction control, vehicle stability assist, a 160-watt 6 speaker audio system with CD player and an MP3/Auxiliary input jack.

LX-P Features and Price

The Honda Accord LX-P comes standard with a 5-speed automatic

The 2010 Honda Accord LX-P (which stands for LX-Premium) comes only with the five speed automatic and is priced at $22,855. The Accord LX-P has all the features of an LX sedan but adds 16-inch alloy wheels, an 8-way power driver's seat, anti-theft alarm, illuminated power window switches with auto up/down feature for front driver and passenger and a chrome exhaust tip.

Choosing

When shopping for a 2010 Honda Accord sedan it is usually a good idea to buy a model equipped with the automatic transmission as these versions are worth more come resale time. And since the LX-P variant of the 2010 Accord sedan is only $1,000 more than the standard LX version it is easy to see that the LX-P is the better buy. A new set of alloy wheels (the LX uses plastic wheel covers) alone could cost you more than $1,000 if you bought them from a Honda dealership at a later date.

History in the United States

Accords have been sold in the United States since the mid-1970s

The Honda Accord was first sold in the United States for the 1976 model year as an option larger than the very popular, but very small, Civic hatchback. The Accord was a hit with the American car buying public right away even though it was just equipped with a 68 horsepower 1.6 liter engine.

Sales and Rankings

In 2009 Honda sold a total of 290,056 units, which was down on the year before thanks to a depressed economy. This ranked the Honda Accord as the second best selling passenger car in the United States behind the Toyota Camry.

How to Negotiate a Better Price for a Car

People tend to think that the sticker price is the only price you can negotiate, which is no negotiation at all. This is not the case, especially with pre-owned or used cars. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1

Do some research online to find out what the car you are looking at goes for in the classifieds and at other dealerships.

2

Be sure and have a trade in, with a trade in available you have a better chance of negotiation.

3

Never take the sticker price. Deal with the salesman, as that is what they are there for, to negotiate.

4

Ask what they can do on the price, and be armed with your research to show them.

How to Ship My New Car to Poland

If you are traveling to Poland or moving there, you can take your new car with you. According to Ship My Auto, if you are staying more than six months as a foreigner, or are a returning Polish citizen away at least one year, you can import the car free of duty taxes. You can ship it either via container method or roll-on, roll-off method. The latter is usually cheaper, especially when driven onto a lower deck and secured for transport. In container shipping, the car is secured in a locked container on the ship.

Instructions

1

Use the auto shipping company directory on the Expat Exchange website to identify international car shipping companies. Get free shipping quotes from some of the companies.

2

Contact the shipping companies with quotes that interest you. Inquire on what the quoted fee covers. Ask if the company has any agents at the port in Poland who can assist you with customs. Ask about any additional fees for things like the certificate of origin or preparation of customs documents.

3

Obtain both international car insurance and maritime insurance for the vehicle. The shipping company can assist you with the maritime insurance. For the international car insurance, just contact your current auto insurer to see if they offer it. If not, they can give you the names of insurers who do. You will need to have your international insurance card before shipment.

4

Take your car to the port, or arrange for a pickup from the shipping company. Gather your original bill of sale, the original title or registration and your international insurance card. These items are needed for transport into Poland. You will need to show these to the shipping company before your car is loaded onto the ship. Do not give the shipping company the originals to keep because you will need them to pick the car up from customs in Poland.

What Is a Corporate Fleet Lease Vehicle?

A corporate fleet lease vehicle is a car that was leased to a corporation or was part of a fleet. Corporations often lease vehicles for executives and employees, which are used as "company cars."

Types

Vehicles that were part of a government fleet or have been used as a rental vehicle can also be labeled as corporate fleet lease vehicles. Government agencies often rent large fleets of cars for their employees or agents. These vehicles are later sold to the public.

Warning

Corporate fleet lease vehicles are often driven harder than private party vehicles, and these vehicles are often not properly maintained. Fleet vehicles tend to have higher mileages as well.

Considerations

After being used for a few years, fleet vehicles are sometimes sold at auction. They are also sold by the fleet department at a dealership. These cars can be a good deal, but they should be checked out thoroughly by a mechanic before buying.

Harley Night Rod Specs

Ultimate Motorcycling online describes the Harley Davidson Night Rod as a "gunfighter for the road," a bike with modern street attitude. With a powerful V-twin engine, strong steel chassis, modern suspension system and triple-disc brakes, this bike offers performance and power, according to Motorcycle Advice USA's website. Motorcycle.com rates the 2010 Harley-Davidson VRSC Night Rod Special number 21 out of 58 2010 sport bikes.

Engine

The Harley Davidson Night Rod is powered by a liquid-cooled Revolution V-twin engine. It is rubber-mounted. The Night Rod engine has two cylinders and offers 122 horsepower at 8,250 rpms and 85 foot-pounds at 7,000 rpms of torque. The fuel capacity is five gallons. This bike has a manual five-speed transmission. Its EPA mileage is 34 urban mpg and 42 highway mpg. Harley Davidson recommends premium gasoline.

Exterior Features

The Night Rod has a steel black frame with bolt-on lower frame and hydro-formed main rails. The power train is black and powder-coated with black covers. Harley Davidson chose a stainless steel low-rise drag-style handlebar for the Night Rod. The Night Rod has three two-tone color options: vivid black and mirage orange with pearl racing stripe, black denim and brilliant silver with denim racing strip, and vivid black and brilliant silver with pearl racing stripe.

Wheels, Tires and Brakes

The Night Rod rides on Dunlop tires. The wheels are slotted-disc cast-aluminum and have an orange pinstripe. The front brake is a dual hydraulic disc, and the rear brake is a hydraulic disc. Telescopic-fork front suspension and twin-sided swing-arm rear suspension make for a smooth ride.

Electrical

The Harley Davidson Night Rod comes with a 12-volt battery that provides 19 amps per hour. The bike's headlamp uses quartz halogens lights, 55 watts for the low beam and 60 watts for the high beam. Stop lights and taillights use reflector optics, and the turn signals are self-canceling. The Night Rod comes with indicator lamps for low oil pressure, turn signals, high beam, neutral, low fuel warnings, engine diagnostics, coolant temperature--and also for the optional security system.

Key Features

Night Rod's distinguishing features include a race-bred assist and slip clutch, Brembo triple-disc brakes, reflector-optic headlight, 240mm wide rear tire, and forward-mounted controls and foot-pegs. Under its seat, this bike has an electric power accessory connector. Optional safety features include Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Harley-Davidson Smart Security System. The alarm system comes with hands-free security fob.

How to Understand Auto Invoice Prices

Many car buyers believe that an auto invoice price represents the exact amount that a dealership pays to the factory for a particular vehicle. This is not true; the invoice does show the basic cost of the car and its options and breaks down some other items like the destination charge, but several other factors influence the true cost. You must understand auto invoice prices and what they really mean if you want to get the best possible deal on your next new car.

Instructions

1

Get a copy of the invoice for the particular auto or autos you are considering. Some dealers will provide a copy if you ask for it and they believe you are a serious buyer, because they know the information is readily available online. Otherwise you can get the information for free from vehicle-research sites such as cars.com, invoicedealers.com or edmunds.com.

2

Add up the base price of the car, including any equipment packages and individual options. Add in the destination charge, which covers the cost of transportation from the factory to the dealer's location. This is a legitimate expense that is figured into the price to be paid by the car buyer, according to Tony Iorio of insidercarsecrets.com.

3

Subtract the holdback and dealer flooring assistance if they are shown on the invoice. Those amounts are paid to the dealer from the factory, according to carbuyingtips.com, so they reduce the auto's true cost. You can find out if there is a holdback on the auto, even if it is not shown on the invoice, by looking at a vehicle research website. It will most likely be a set percentage of the invoice cost or manufacturer's suggestion retail price (MSRP), edmunds.com explains.

1987 BMW 325I Specifications

The 1987 BMW 325i automobile is BMWs mid-range compact executive car designated in the 3 Series. BMW markets the 3 Series above the 1 Series entry-level family cars and below the mid-size 5 Series and full-size 7 Series luxury cars.

Engine

The last two digits of the 325i designation denote the engine size of the BMW. The engine is a 2.5-liter six-cylinder version with a 3.31-inch cylinder bore and 2.95-inch stroke. The compression ratio is set low at 8.8:1. Horsepower is relatively modest at 168, with the torque rated at 164 ft-lbs. Torque gives the BMW its acceleration from a standstill. It can achieve a top speed of 132 mph.

Size

The 1987 BMW 325is frame is placed on a compact 101.2-inch wheelbase. The touring model is relatively short at 170.3 inches, with a 64.8-inch width and 54.3-inch height. Its fuel tank holds 16.9 gallons. The 325i weighs 2,844 lbs.

Chassis

The 1987 325i features a rear-wheel drive, rack and pinion steering and wishbone independent suspension. The tires are 195/65 VR14 all around and sit on 14-inch wheels. BMW equips the 325i with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Montana Used Car Lemon Law

People who buy new cars typically expect the vehicle to be free from defects, or that any defects, once discovered, will be promptly corrected by the dealer or manufacturer. Unfortunately some consumers purchase cars with defects that never seem to get fixed no matter how many times the car is brought in for repair. A number of states, including Montana, have passed so-called lemon laws to provide consumers relief from perpetually defective vehicles.

Identification

Montana's lemon law is applicable only to vehicles that were purchased, titled or leased in the state of Montana. To qualify as a lemon, the vehicle must be less than 2 years old. The vehicle must have no more than 18,000 miles on its odometer, and the vehicle must have significant defects that adversely affect the vehicle's safety, market value or use. Montana's lemon law applies to passenger vehicles and motorcycles.

Function

Montana's New Vehicle Warranty Act provides consumers with recourse against defective new vehicles in specific instances.To be covered under the New Vehicle Warranty Act, a consumer must report the defect to the manufacturer during the warranty period. The vehicle must have been out of service for repairs for more than 30 days, or have been serviced for the same defect four times and the defect is still uncorrected.

Process

Consumers are required to notify the manufacturer of the defect and request repair. If the defect persists after three attempts to repair it, the consumer must submit the request for repair to the manufacture by certified mail. If the manufacturer cannot or will not repair the defect after receiving written notification, the consumer is entitled to a refund of the full purchase price of the vehicle or a replacement with an identical or substantially similar vehicle.

Documentation

To process a claim under Montana's New Vehicle Warranty Act, the consumer should provide copies of all documents related to the original purchase or lease of the vehicle. The consumer should additionally provide copies of all maintenance records, repair records, receipts for supplies, a copy of the certified letter notifying the manufacturer of the complaint and any other documentation regarding the complaint.
All documentation must be submitted to:

Montana Department of Commerce
New Motor Vehicle Warranties Administrator
1424 9th Avenue
PO Box 200501
Helena, MT 59620-0501

Considerations

Not all vehicles are covered by Montana's Lemon Law. Trucks over 10,000 pounds are not covered. Off-road vehicles and vehicles that are non-motorized are not covered. Used cars are not covered. Vehicles which were purchased new and would otherwise qualify are not eligible once they have exceeded 18,000 miles or after two years of ownership, whichever comes first. Trivial or cosmetic defects do not qualify, nor do defects that are the result of abuse, neglect, alteration or accidents.

How Much Does a New Car Dealer Make on a Sale?

Many new car dealers run ads that say things like "We sell cars at invoice price" or "Buy this car for $100 below invoice." Consumers who see these ads may believe that the dealer is not making any profit. However, the invoice cost is just one part of the picture when it comes to determining how much money a new car dealer makes on a sale. You must know the complete picture in order to determine the real amount of profit.

Invoice

A new car dealer makes a profit on the difference between the sales price of the car and its actual cost. Basic cost information is widely available on the internet at websites like Edmunds and Kelly Blue Book. These sites allow consumers to view the invoice cost of a new car, including any accessories and packages, and compare it to the manufacturer's suggested retail price. The difference between the invoice total and the selling price gives a general indication of how much money the dealer is making on a sale. However, the invoice does not represent the exact cost to the dealer. There are several other factors that play a role.

Incentives

Often a new car manufacturer will offer special factory-to-dealer incentives. Unlike rebates, which are given to the consumer, this money is given to the dealer. Some dealers may choose to pass some of it along to the consumer. Others may keep all of it, boosting their profit on the new car sale even if they sell it at the invoice price.

Holdbacks

Most manufacturers give dealers a certain amount of money, called a holdback, for each new car they sell. This is generally a percentage of the cost; the exact amount varies by manufacturer. Dealers almost never share any of the holdback with car buyers. The holdback amount raises the amount the dealer makes on the sale, even if he sells it at the invoice price.

Additional markup

Some new car dealers purposely build additional profit into their car prices. They may add fees to the window sticker, or they may include them on the contract. For example, some new car dealers will include a fee for vehicle preparation or a dubious acronym like "ADM," which simply stands for "Additional Dealer Markup." Some will load the window sticker with optional items that have an extremely high markup, like interior fabric coating or exterior rustproofing. All of these things will allow the dealer to make more money on the sale.

After a price has been agreed upon, many dealers will include a "documentation fee" on their contracts, pre-printed to make it look official. This is actually another way of adding directly to their profit margin.

How to Return a Used Car After Buying

Buying a car is usually one of the most expensive purchases anyone can make. It can be frustrating if the car has problems or you experience buyer's remorse right after you buy it. New cars can be returned for any reason within three days as required by the Federal Trade Commission. However, returning a used car will be subject to the stipulations laid out in the purchase contract along with any rights and protections provided by your state.

Instructions

1

Find out the "lemon laws" for your state. Contact your state's attorney general's office to get information on whether your used car is eligible for protection under a lemon law.

2

Review the contract and return policy regarding your used car. Read your contract thoroughly to determine the requirements needed to return your car.

3

Check your car for any damages. Your car must be returned in the same condition that you bought it. Even slight damages may void your right to return the car. If you find any problems, fix them before you return the car to the seller.

4

Contact the seller. Talk to the person you bought the car from directly and let him know your intention to return the car under the return policy outlined in the contract. Schedule a time to return the car.

5

Drive your car back to the seller. Make sure to take all of the original paperwork, accessories, ID and your insurance information with you.

6

Review and sign the cancellation contract. You will be required to provide contact information. Look over the cancellation contract and ensure that all of the details included are accurate, including the purchase price and the dissolution of the original contract. Sign the contract.

How to Purchase a Car With a Salvage Title

A car with a salvage title is a vehicle that has been deemed "totaled" by an insurance company. In other words, the cost of the repairs were more than the estimated value of the car. They are re-titled as salvage vehicles and then sold at auction or to salvage yards at a reduced price to be used for parts. Often times, people fix up cars with salvage titles for sale or personal use. Buying one of these cars is a risk because there is no way to gauge how good the repairs were.

Instructions

1

Ask the seller for the VIN number. Run a car history report on a site such as Carfax or NADA. Look at how many times the car has been bought and sold both before and since the salvage title report. A high number of sales may indicate that there is a major problem with the vehicle.

2

Ask the seller basic questions about the car such as repair and maintenance history, mileage, and when the the tires were changed last.

3

Have the car checked by a trusted mechanic for obvious damage. Companies such as Midas or Brake Check will run a routine check for major problems and fill out a report for a flat fee.

4

Drive the car and watch for pulling in one direction. The car should stay straight without much adjustment of the wheel. Pulling often indicates an alignment problem that could be connected with significant frame damage.

5

Pay for the vehicle if everything checks out. Obtain a signed title of sale from the seller of the vehicle. This title should list the car as a "Salvage", give the VIN number, plate number, and mileage. Fill out the title, tax and registration forms for the state of residence. It is the buyer's responsibility to go to the county tax office to fill out tax and registration forms and pay fees associated with them.

How Much Over Invoice Should I Pay for a New Car?

The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) used to be the starting point for new car negotiations before the Internet made invoice prices readily accessible. Now smart consumers get the invoice price for the new car models in which they are most interested. A little further research lets them decide how much to pay over invoice. They may even discover that they can buy the vehicle at or below invoice in certain circumstances.

Invoice Total

Calculate the new car's invoice price as a starting point. Various websites like Invoicedealers.com let you do this for any new make and model, including accessories and option packages. They will add these items, as well as the destination charge for that particular make, to give you the total invoice price.

Dealer Money

Dealer money affects the amount a dealership actually pays for a new car. Carbuyingtips.com says the true cost is usually lower than the invoice price because most manufacturers provide something called a hold back. This is a percentage of the invoice price that is rebated to the dealer. You can find hold backs on Edmunds.com and other automotive research website. Other money is given periodically in the form of factory to dealer incentives, which are like rebates that go to the dealership instead of the consumer. These are especially common on unpopular and overstocked models or just before the new model year. The manufacturer may give bonuses for meeting or beating sales goals and other milestones. You can find many incentives on car pricing websites. If they are high, you may be able to get a new car at or even below the invoice price because the dealer is still making a good profit from the hidden dealer money.

Public Demand

Certain new car models are more in demand than others. You will generally have to pay a higher amount over invoice for these cars than you would if you chose a less popular model. Get a feel for high-demand cars in your area by visiting car buyer forums. Buyers often report on the total prices they are paying for each particular model in specific cities and states and whether they had trouble finding the vehicle. You may have to pay several hundred dollars over invoice for a model with high public demand, while a low demand model might sell right at the invoice amount. Cars for which the supply cannot meet the demand often sell for more than the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Salespeople will not consider an invoice-based offer on these models.

Season

Car sales are extremely slow right before and after Christmas, so you can offer to pay the invoice price or make an offer below invoice and have a decent chance of having it accepted. Dealers are also anxious to clear the lot right before the new model year starts, so offer to pay the invoice total for a current model during this season. Make a below-invoice offer if you know there are high dealer incentives to encourage sales.

MSRP

FirstCarGuide.com says you can based the amount you offer over invoice on the car's MSRP if there don't appear to be any significant dealer incentives and demand for the vehicle is average. It suggests offering $500 over invoice for cars under $20,000, $1000 over invoice for cars between $20,000 and $30,000 and $2000 over invoice for cars over $30,000.

How to Calculate Car Payments Using a Car Payments Calculator

Learn how to calculate car payments using a car payments calculator. Using a car payments calculator to determine your monthly car payments is a great way to plan ahead for your future new or used car purchase.

Instructions

1

Calculate your car payments using a car payments calculator online.

There are many great online resources that provide a free car payments calculator. One example is at Cars.com, see link below.

2

Enter the required information in the fields provided.

This includes vehicle price, down payment, trade-in value, sales tax, interest rate, and the term of the loan.

3

After you have entered the information, select update payments.

The monthly car payment amount will be displayed just above the update payment button. Try mixing up the variables in step two to see how your monthly car payment amount can vary. Buying a less expensive vehicle and/or increasing the down payment amount are by far the most effective methods of reducing your car payments.

Used Vehicle Laws Under Warranty in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Used Vehicle Warranty Law covers used vehicles against safety and operating defects when purchased from a used car dealer or a private seller. It is also often referred to as an express warranty. The law is regulated and enforced by the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.

Purchases from Dealers

All vehicle dealers are required to provide customers with a warranty. Vehicles with less than 40,000 miles are covered under warranty for 90 days or 3,750 miles. Vehicles with between 40,000 to 79,999 miles are covered for 60 days or 2,500 miles. Vehicles with 80,000 to 124,999 miles are covered for 30 days or 1,250 miles. Vehicles with more than 125,000 miles are not covered under the warranty law. If the mileage on the vehicle is undetermined or unknown, the law has provisions. Vehicles less than three years old are covered for 90 days or 3,750 miles. Vehicles between three years but less than six years old are covered for 60 days or 2,500 miles. Vehicles older than six years are covered for 30 days or 1,250 miles.

Private Party Sales

When you purchases a used vehicle from a private party (defined by law as one who sells fewer than four vehicles in a 12-month period) the warranty law is different. The seller is obligated to inform the buyer of all safety and operational defects. This applies to used vehicles of any age or mileage. The buyer has 30 days from the date of the sale to cancel the sale if he finds a safety or operational defect in the vehicle that was not disclosed by the seller. Under this circumstance the seller must refund the buyer for the cost of the vehicle. The buyers refund is deducted 15 cents for each mile the car was driven during the sale period.

Coverage Exceptions

Not all vehicles are covered under the Massachusetts Used Vehicle Warranty Law. Vehicles that are leased, used for commercial purposes or registered to a business are not covered. Additionally, vehicle categories such as mobile homes, off-road or all-terrain vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds and dirt bikes are not covered.

How to Import a Used Toyota Fortuna 4X4 to the UK

Due to fluctuations in exchange rates as well as differences in pricing, importing a car into the United Kingdom has become increasingly common for individuals who are seeking a better deal when purchasing a car. Importing a Toyota Fortuna into the United Kingdom is no different than importing most vehicles. Care should be exercised, however, when following U.K. government regulations regarding the importing of vehicles. By following the approval process as well as abiding by customs regulations will ensure that your car will be imported into the United Kingdom without problems.

Instructions

1

Abide by the road standards that are enforced in the United Kingdom. Vehicles in the United Kingdom are driven on the left side of the road. Therefore, the steering wheel is on the right-hand side of the car. Left-hand drive vehicles are legal, but require a certificate administered by the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) that show that changes have been made to the vehicle (e.g. conversion metric speedometers) that make it suitable for British roads.

2

Obtain the services of a shipping company if you do not intend to drive the car to the United Kingdom. Many shipping companies specialize in the transportation of cars and will be knowledgeable about transportation, safety and security. Your car will often be shipped as part of a larger consignment.

3

Pay the import duty on your vehicle. The forms that you fill out and the amount of duty that you will have to pay depends on the country of origin and purpose of your vehicle. Contact HM Revenue & Customs for advice on the import duty to be paid.

4

Register your vehicle with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You must provide the DVLA with form V55/5, your driver's license plus further proof of identity such as a passport. The DVLA will issue a registration certificate and license plates for your newly imported vehicle.