Thursday, March 31, 2016

How to Buy a Classic Triumph

Triumph was always known for its sturdy cars with a racing heritage. Today, these British-made cars are becoming quite rare.

Instructions

    1

    Consider a TR3 for a classic British sports car, complete with wire wheels and side curtains. This car was built from 1956 to 1962.

    2

    Look for a TR4 if you want the classic Triumph of the 1960s. Styled by Michelotti, these cars are beautiful and fun to drive.

    3

    Consider a TR6, which is one of the most drivable, modern and comfortable Triumphs. Styled by Karmann in Germany, this car combines six-cylinder power with style.

    4

    Don't forget about the Spitfire, which is perhaps the most affordable Triumph.

Wednesday, March 30, 2016

What is the Cooling Off Period for Car Purchase Contracts?

What is the Cooling Off Period for Car Purchase Contracts?

Buying a vehicle, like any other purchase, can be done impulsively. While many general purchases allow you to return or exchange the item once you've had time to think about it, purchasing a car is different.

Purchasing a New Car

    There is no cooling period when purchasing a new car in the United States. When you buy a new vehicle and sign the contract, you are bound by it.

Purchasing a Used Car

    Check with your state's policy on cooling periods, some have it and others don't. In California, for example, consumers may request a two-day sales contract cancellation option. Depending on the used-car dealer or seller, restrictions may apply.

Leasing a Car

    Depending on the company, your leasing company may allow a cooling period. In New Jersey, you have a one-day cooling-off period to give you time to review the unsigned lease terms.

Companies' Policy

    When you lease or purchase a vehicle, the company may have its own specific policy that's apart from the state's regulation. Before you sign the contract, be sure to ask them about a cooling-off period. For example, Saturn gives consumers up to 30 days or 1,500 miles to exchange their newly purchased car for another Saturn vehicle. CarMax offers buyers a five-day money-back guarantee on used car sales.

How to Export a Used Car to India

How to Export a Used Car to India

As the level of disposable income in India increases, many more families have been able to afford a car of their own. The quality of domestic cars in India, however, is low by world standards. As a result, many people have found it tempting to export a used car to India either for personal use or for the resale market. When exporting a car to India, educate yourself on the laws regarding the shipping of vehicles in both your country and India.

Instructions

    1

    Abide by the laws and regulations in the country of export. Customs agencies usually require an inspection of your vehicle as well as documents pertaining to owner registration, so prepare to submit any of these documents to your local customs authority.

    2

    Empty the fuel tank before shipping your car to ensure that it will meet safety guidelines while being shipped overseas. An empty tank will require you to have the car towed to the port rather than driving it; prepare to pay for this additional expense to your shipping company.

    3

    Hire the services of a shipping company that specializes in the transport of vehicles by sea. A reputable shipping company will have information on the safety procedures involved with the shipping of vehicles and will offer the necessary expertise in handling your car with care. Your shipping company will also know which ports in India accept the importation of vehicles.

    4

    Abide by India's rules on the importing of vehicles. India does not require a license for the importing of cars less than two years old. Furthermore, you must have lived outside of India for at least two years, and the car must have been in use for at least one year, to be eligible for import without licensing.

    5

    Prepare to pay an import tax of up to 70 percent on the value of the car. The Indian government calculates the value of your car based on its price when new, minus a percentage that takes depreciating value into account.

How to Find Repossessed Cars for Sale

Repossessed cars offer a great deal of opportunity for the car shopper who is looking to score a great vehicle for a low price. If you're wondering where to find those repossessed cars, keep reading to learn where to look.

Instructions

    1

    Watch your local newspaper; repossessed car auctions are frequently announced publicly. Once you have the time and date of a repossessed care sale or auction, it's just a matter of showing up and making bids.

    2

    Keep an eye out; public car auctions frequently happen in what seems the most happenstance areas and times. They are not always well announced, but if you watch vacant car lots there will often be signs such as "Repossessed Car Sale Saturday 3PM". The next step upon seeing a sign like this would be to call the contact number for a list of the repossessed cars being sold so that you can do research on the makes and models (to ensure a quality purchase).

    3

    Contact local credit unions and banks and ask them for a list of repo cars. They will be one of the first agencies to know that a car is being repossessed, so it makes sense to tap into their resources of you're looking to buy a repossessed car.

    4

    Look for repossessed cars online for the most comprehensive listings. When you go online it's also easy to find car repossessions that are out of your area-sometimes extending your search radius can improve the buying options available to you.

The Cons of Leasing a Car

The Cons of Leasing a Car

When leasing a vehicle, you make monthly payments to a leasing company, except, in essence, you are renting the vehicle for an amount of time specified in a contract, typically two to five years. The payment includes interest, leasing costs, finance charges and any applicable taxes. After the lease term is up, you bring the vehicle back to the dealership and have the option of leasing another vehicle, purchasing the current vehicle or turning in the vehicle. There are some cons when leasing a car.

Cost and Payments

    When leasing a vehicle, an important disadvantage to consider is that it usually costs more than paying a loan to buy the vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, this is due to finance charges usually being higher when leasing.

    An article published on the website Lease Guide states that when it comes to the cost of leasing a vehicle, the long-term cost tends to be higher than the cost of buying a vehicle, assuming the customer wants to purchase the vehicle when the lease ends.

Number of Miles and Condition of Vehicle

    When a vehicle is leased, there is a limited number of miles you can drive per year. If you exceed the mileage limit as written in the contract, penalty fees will be applied.

    The vehicle must also be kept in good condition when leasing. If the vehicle is not maintained in good or acceptable condition, extra wear and tear charges can be applied if you turn in the vehicle at the end of the lease term.

Early Termination Fees

    Once you lease a vehicle, it is for a specified amount of time. When the lease is up, you can choose to lease a different vehicle, purchase the original vehicle or just walk away. If you want to get out of the lease before it expires, you may be charged early-termination fees and penalties.

No Customization and Insurance Costs

    Leased vehicles are not allowed to be customized in any permanent way, such as a new paint job or adding permanent decals.

    Leasing companies usually require higher amounts of insurance coverage than what you may normally be used to. For instance, insurance companies tend to require higher comprehensive limits on leased vehicles when compared to vehicles purchased with a traditional loan.

No Ownership and Different Credit Requirements

    When leasing a vehicle, technically that vehicle is being rented, much like signing a lease for an apartment. You are paying to drive the vehicle rather than making payments toward ownership of it.

    The article titled "Pros and Cons of Leasing" from the website Lease Tips states that because leased vehicles are owned by the leasing company, they need to be assured that payments will be made in full and on time, so credit requirements tend to be higher for people leasing a vehicle than for those looking to buy. If you have questionable credit history, you may have difficulty getting approved to lease a vehicle.

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

What Is Covered by the Acura Certified Warranty?

Acura, a luxury-vehicle subdivision of Honda Motor Co., offers limited warranties for its new vehicles and its certified pre-owned cars, which are less than 6 years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles.

Acura Certified New Vehicle Limited Warranty

    The new-vehicle limited warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles. It covers the vehicle, except for the power train, which has a warranty that covers six years or 70,000 miles. The warranty covering outer-body rust-through is for five years, with no limit on mileage. Acura accessories are covered for four years or 50,000 miles. Coverage for ordinary maintenance and normal wear is excluded.

Acura Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Limited Warranty

    The limited warranty for certified pre-owned vehicles covers 12 months or 12,000 miles. The power train is covered for seven years or 100,000 miles. Coverage during the warranty period also includes 24-hour roadside assistance in the U.S. and Canada, and emergency fuel delivery and lockout service.

Acura Care Program

    The Acura care program is an optional warranty that includes roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, a trip interruption benefit, personalized travel planning, an interest-free payment plan, comprehensive component coverage and coverage for commercial uses. The program varies from state to state.

2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 Specifications

Polaris Industries dates back to 1954, when it manufactured snowmobiles. However, through the years the company developed and produced motorcycles, military solutions and all-terrain vehicles. The 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 HO is a four-wheel-drive utility vehicle with three color schemes. Though small in stature, the utility vehicle also has the ability to haul small loads.

Performance

    The 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 HO vehicle comes standard with a single-cylinder, four-stroke, 499 cc engine. The rear-wheel-drive vehicle has a continuously variable transmission. The vehicle has an electronic start ignition.

Dimensions and Capacities

    The 2006 Sportsman 500 HO vehicle measures 83 inches long, 48 inches wide and 48 inches high. The ground clearance is 11 inches. The utility vehicle has a seat height of 33.8 inches and accommodates one person. The 715-lb. vehicle has a 50.5-inch wheelbase. It can hold up to 4.25 gallons of fuel. The front storage unit can hold up to 90 lbs. and the rear storage area holds up to 180 lbs. The vehicle offers a total hitch tongue weight of 120 lbs. and a 1,225-lb. maximum towing capacity.

Suspension, Brakes and Wheels

    The 2006 Sportsman features MacPherson strut front suspension with 8.2 inches of travel and independent progressive rate rear suspension with 9.5 inches of travel. The vehicle comes with Polaris PXT 25-inch-by-8-inch front tires and Polaris PXT 25-inch-by-11-inch rear tires. The Polaris Sportsman 500 vehicle sports hydraulic disc brakes with a hydraulic foot brake in the rear.

Features

    The 2006 Polaris Sportsman 500 HO recreational vehicle includes digital instruments. The vehicle features an odometer, speedometer, fuel gauge and tachometer. The Sportsman 500 alerts you when the oil is too high or low, and when you need to check the battery. In addition, the vehicle comes with a 12-volt outlet.

Monday, March 28, 2016

How to Get an Abandoned Title for a Car in VA

How to Get an Abandoned Title for a Car in VA

If a vehicle is abandoned on your property in Virginia, you have the right to title it and sell it after a certain amount of time. However, before the vehicle can be titled, the person who is in possession of the car needs to follow a specific process as dictated by the commonwealth of Virginia.

Instructions

    1

    Initiate a search for the car's owner. Virginia requires that individuals, businesses and government agencies in possession of an abandoned vehicle perform a record request search on it. Go the Virginia DMV office nearest to you and provide the agency with the vehicle's VIN number to initiate a records request search. The point of the records request search is to legally document your attempt to locate the owner or lien holder of the vehicle. As of 2010, this process requires paying a $25 fee to the DMV.

    2

    Wait for the DMV to contact the vehicle's owner and notify them that the vehicle needs to be removed from your property within 15 days. The DMV will contact owners who are located in Virginia for you. If the owner is located out of state, then you will have to send a certified letter to them. Keep all paperwork and reciepts from these actions.

    3

    Go to the Online Transactions section of the Virginia DMV's website and post your intent to sell the vehicle at auction per the provided DMV standards and guidelines. You can only do this if the car owner does not respond to the request to have the vehicle removed within the 15-day time limit. You will need to register online as a member of the DMV's website and then click the appropriate links under the Online Transactions section of the website to submit your posting. Posting should include pertinent legal information about the car, such as the make, model and VIN.

    The auction posting will remain active on the DMV's website for 21 days. Keep all paperwork, forms and receipts provided to you by the DMV during this process. If the forms and receipts arrive in your email, remember to print them out for safekeeping. After 21 days, you may title the vehicle yourself, sell it or scrap it.

    4

    Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title and take it to your local DMV office along with the other documents you received during the previous steps. These documents include your Vehicle Removal Certificate and the Abandoned Vehicle Record Request Receipt--you will have received it after you paid the fee for the records request search.

    You will also need to provide insurance paperwork showing the vehicle is insured and proof of compliance with any other local registration requirements--such as emission inspection certificates--to your local DMV office. Be prepared to pay tax, tag and title fees. Fees will vary depending on the approximate value of the car and whether or not you already own a tag or have to purchase one.

    You can expect to receive the title to the car in the mail within a few weeks of submitting the necessary paperwork.

How to Buy a Used Motor Scooter

How to Buy a Used Motor Scooter

With gas prices fluctuating and so many people concerned about the affect of fossil fuels on the environment, more people than ever are in the market for motor scooters. To save money, consider a good quality used scooter.

Instructions

    1

    Research the various makes and models of scooters on the market today. Everything from the top-of-the-line Vespa to the "maybe it's really welded together, maybe it's not" Chinese scooter is available if you want to buy new. You, however, want to buy used--which means you'll save money, but you'll have less to choose from. Decide which scooters you'd be happy to own, and which you are definitely not interested in.

    2

    Scour the internet ads in your area. Scooters have been selling so well since the summer of 2008, newspaper ads are typically not even worth the seller's time. Even in smaller, less-urban cities, scooters have been known to sell in less than 24 hours of being listed. Check eBay, craigslist, and any other community site you have access to.

    3

    Take note of how much scooters are selling for, by make and mileage. Have a look at your budget. How much can you afford to spend? What size engine do you require? Licensing and insurance requirements vary by state--you will need to look these up, as well. Luckily, scooter enthusiasts web forums can really help you out with this research (and you might even find someone with a used scooter to sell).

    4

    Once you know how much you can spend, you have the cash at the ready, and you know what kind of used scooter you want exactly, watch the ads closely for your scooter to pop up. As soon as a suitable-sounding bike is listed, contact the seller for a test-drive.

    5

    Things to look for: does it start easily? Is anything loose? Is there any rust? Does it come with a trunk? How many people can ride it? Examine the tires. What kind of fuel does it take, and how do you add oil? Do the brakes feel tight? Do you enjoy riding it? Make sure and ask why the seller is getting rid of it. If you are looking for something like a luggage rack or a cart to tow behind the scooter for running errands, ask the seller if they have any recommendations.

    6

    Ask how and when the bike has been serviced. Are there service centers in the area? If you have been researching all the makes in your area, you have probably already familiarized yourself with the local service centers for various scooter brands.

    7

    If you're sure this is the bike for you, make your offer. I suggest offering cash, and a little less than they are asking, because they might accept, and then you've saved some $! But with most scooters selling for full price even on the used market, be prepared with enough $ to cover the asking price.

Saturday, March 26, 2016

How to Design Your Custom Truck

How to Design Your Custom Truck

To compete in today's technologically savvy market, most car and truck companies have included on their websites a way in which consumers can customize their vehicle to their specific liking before making a purchase. In a matter of minutes, alterations to the standard stock options of a truck can be made and viewed in 3D online. Before you make your next vehicle purchase, consider visiting a company's website to customize your options.

Instructions

    1

    Determine the brand of truck you want to purchase. Research both American and foreign-made trucks until you know exactly what you're looking for. Compare prices, fuel efficiency, size, engine size, transmission and other specifications. Top-ranked trucks can be found on websites such as the U.S. News Rankings and Reviews and Consumer Reports.

    2

    Pick out the make and model of your truck. Locate truck manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet or Dodge, and search through their truck listings to find the truck that suits you best. Pick out a small truck for better gas mileage. Pick a truck with four-wheel drive for added safety in winter weather. Choose a truck with fold-down backseats for storage purposes. Determine what you need in a truck, and search accordingly.

    3

    Click on the "Build" option. Each truck manufacturer will offer a build-your-own option on their website. Browse through all options for the exterior and interior of your truck. Add a moon roof for days when you want to feel the warmth of the sun. Add heated seats for cold winter mornings. Choose embellished rims to spice up the exterior of your truck, or a cargo rack for hauling outdoor equipment like a bike or canoe. Customize the design of the truck you want to purchase.

    4

    Summarize and price your customized truck. Use tools on the manufacturer's website to determine monthly payment options, trade-in values, etc. You will be prompted for your zip code at some point throughout the "building" of your truck. Enter your five-digit zip code so that payment options and values will be as accurate as possible.

BMW 335i Problems

BMW 335i Problems

BMW launched the E90 generation 3 Series in 2005. The 335i was introduced in 2006. The E90 replaced the popular E46 as the latest, greatest 3 Series. The E90 (E92 in coupe form) is an entirely new platform and as such has its share of teething issues that usually occur the first few years that a new model is in production.

Engine

    The 335i is equipped with the powerful 300-horsepower N54 3.0-liter straight six that is twin turbocharged. While the engine itself has so far proven reliable, there have been the occasional problems with the ECU cutting power to the motor. There have also been reports of oil coolers inadequately cooling the engine if the 335i is driven very aggressively in a track environment. The installation of an aftermarket oil cooler solves this problem.

Gearbox

    Some owners of 335is that are equipped with an automatic gearbox have been reporting problems with the gearboxes lurching and hesitating when they are supposed to be shifting smoothly. This has been occurring mainly in automatic mode and not in the manual shift mode. The dealers usually download new software into the car to fix the problem. This is not a common problem.

Fuel system

    By far the most well-known issue with the 335i is the failure of the direct injection fuel system's high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in 2007 and 2008, though BMW says this is rare. Failure of the pump, which delivers fuel at nearly 3000-psi, can cause long cranking to start the motor, as well as making the car's computer go into "limp home mode" and cut power to the turbos. The good news is that there is an upgraded pump that the dealer installs under warranty to rectify the situation.

Expert Insight

    It should be noted that these problems have occurred in a very small percentage of cars. The majority of 335i owners have reported trouble-free driving overall. The probability of major issues with a 335i are very low, as long as the car is properly maintained and uses premium fuel.

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Friday, March 25, 2016

How to Locate Salvage Auto Auctions

How to Locate Salvage Auto Auctions

A salvage vehicle is one that has been either wrecked or damaged to the point that repair would be too expensive. The determination of what constitutes a salvage vehicle may be made by an insurance company, the vehicle owner, or a bank who holds the car title. If a car has been determined a "total loss salvage," the title and license plates will be surrendered to the Department of Motor Vehicles, which will issue a certificate categorizing it as a "salvaged" or a "revived salvage" car. While a salvage car may have severe damage, it may also have many useful parts, or may still be running with only cosmetic damage. Salvage vehicle auctions are held regularly on the Internet and at locations across the United States. Once you locate a salvage auto auction, you can purchase one of these vehicles, often at a very deep discount.

Instructions

Auctions At Local Salvage Yards

    1

    Locate salvage yards in your area. You can find a list of salvage yards across the United States at ATIS (see resources) or at Auto Salvage Yards Directory (see resources.) Look for your state (or the two letter abbreviation for your state) and click the link to get a list of salvage yards in your state, arranged by city.

    2

    Click the city you live in, or the city closest to you. This takes you to a link listing all the known salvage yards in the city, with contact information for each.

    3

    Contact the salvage yards that you found in step 2. Ask each salvage yard for auction times and dates. Some salvage yards do not hold regular auctions, but may instead sell salvage parts after purchasing wrecked cars.

Auctions Online

    4

    Visit an Internet website that hosts salvage vehicle auctions online. Options include Copart and CTAA (see resources.)

    5

    Register with the online auto auction website of your choice. You must provide a name, address, phone number, driver license number and email address to complete the registration process.

    6

    Search the website where you registered for upcoming auctions. These can change daily or weekly. The upcoming auctions are listed on the home page. In some cases, online salvage auction sites will also list local auctions. The local auctions listed will include "virtual only" salvage vehicles which only online users may bid on.

Government and Police Auctions

    7

    Visit a website that provides listings of government and police auctions in your area. Gov Auctions provides this service (see resources.)

    8

    Look up the type of vehicle you are interested in: Enter the make of car using the drop-down menu on the home page. Enter your zip code directly to the right of that. Click "Search" to get a list of recent salvage vehicle auctions that featured the car you are interested in, along with the prices that the car sold for.

    9

    Join the website to access a full list of upcoming government and police auctions in all areas of the United States. The registration fee as of November 2010 is $39.95. This registration fee allows users to receive a list of auctions, both online and live. Google maps are provided with exact auction locations.

How to Avoid Paying for a CARFAX History Report

How to Avoid Paying for a CARFAX History Report

A CARFAX history report has become a much sought after resource when it comes to buying a used car. A CARFAX report provides car buyers with information that may influence the decision whether or not to purchase the car. The only downside is shelling out the money for a report only to find out that you don't really want the car. If you want to avoid the fee for purchasing a CARFAX report, here's how to get them for free.

Instructions

    1

    Ask your local car dealer. Many car dealers are members of the CARFAX dealership program. Being a member means that they can obtain reports for a reduced price. Once you find a car on the dealer's lot that interests you, avoid paying for the CARFAX report by asking for a free one. They would rather lose the couple of bucks on a CARFAX report than lose much more in a potential car sale.

    2

    Go to the CARFAX used car classified site and use their free car search service. They have an online database of vehicles for sale. In the database, most, if not all vehicles come with a free CARFAX vehicle history report. All you have to do is enter your search criteria and view all vehicles listed. Once you find one that you're interested in, click on the free CARFAX report link and you'll get a free CARFAX history report.

    3

    Visit websites of dealers in your surrounding area. If your local dealer doesn't have what you're looking for, there are several dealers in your area that belong to the CARFAX online dealership program. Search their websites and select vehicles that offer a free CARFAX vehicle history report.

Thursday, March 24, 2016

How do I Buy a Car Using Only Bank Statement?

How do I Buy a Car Using Only Bank Statement?

Car loan financing is not too dissimilar from other types of financing. Prospective lenders want to be able to verify a customer's ability and willingness to repay a loan. This is most often verified with income documents and a credit report. A credit report will show previous borrowing history, perhaps on a previous car loan, and income documents prove the disposable income a customer has to put toward a car payment. If you can only prove your income with a bank statement, you'll have an uphill battle to car financing, though it is possible.

Instructions

    1

    Request your credit report before finding a suitable vehicle. Before a lender will consider any type of nonconventional income verification, he will want some more security, namely strong credit. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com for a free copy. You can also pay for a FICO score, a three-digit number between 300 and 850. This score shows lenders where you land on the credit spectrum. Scores above 700 are excellent.

    2

    Collect at least six consecutive bank statements from the same account. If you've changed banks, provide six bank records total in order from each bank. Lenders may approve income from bank statements, but they want to see consistency of income.

    3

    Lay out all bank statements in front of you. Take an average of deposits for each month. Do not include any transfers, because lenders will not consider these income. Then determine an average of all deposits for six months. This is roughly your gross monthly income.

    4

    Find the car you wish to purchase. It is important to remember that you do not need to use the financing programs available to you at the dealership or used-car dealer. You can and will likely need to seek outside loan financing.

    5

    Search for nontraditional auto lenders. Most traditional lenders, including local banks and credit unions, will not finance a car loan unless solid proof of income is presented. These institutions want to see documents such as pay stubs or W-2s. Instead, try finance companies such as CitiFinancial Auto or Capital One Auto.

    6

    Fill out several auto loan applications. Give all loan officers your bank statements with your deposit averages. This will help speed the approval process. The lenders will pull their own credit reports, so you need not worry about giving your copy away.

    7

    Collect all auto-financing offers. You will likely be faced with higher interest rates and fees simply because your loan is riskier in the eyes of the lender. You must decide if the benefits of the car outweigh the costs of the loan.

How to Buy a Used Car on eBay

It seems like anything and everything is sold through the online auction site eBay, and that includes automobiles. A user trying to sell a car can post the listing online for people all over the world to see. eBay can be a great tool for people looking to purchase a car but who don't want to leave their houses to obtain information.

Instructions

    1

    At ebay.com, click the "Categories" tab, then select "Cars, Boats, Vehicles & Parts." You will be taken to the "Motors" section of eBay.

    2

    Fill out the make of car you're looking for and type in your ZIP code. A list of available cars will come up on the next page. Make sure to look at the location of the car. It will say, in miles, how far away the car is. On the left hand side of the page, you can adjust how far from your location the car can be, and the list will change.

    3

    Find a car you would like to purchase. Either place a bid or select "Purchase Now" if the option is available (before you can do this you will need to register for a free account). If your bid is accepted you will be notified by e-mail.

    4

    Follow the purchasing procedures. Just like any other purchase on eBay, you will be contacted by the seller, and you will confirm how you will be paying for the product. Typically this is either through PayPal, an online payment system, or you can send a check. As soon as the payment goes through, you will be allowed to pick up the vehicle. It will now be your responsibility to pick up the car from its location or have it shipped.

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

How to Check a VIN for Free

How to Check a VIN for Free

A vehicle identification number (VIN) can tell you everything you need to know about a car. If you want to find out if a used car on the market has ever been flooded, stolen or in an accident, the VIN will tell you. Every time a car goes to a garage for maintenance, the mechanic records the VIN and what was done to the car. For consumers looking to gain more information on a potential automobile purchase, they can search for a vehicle's history by using the VIN for free.

Instructions

    1

    Find the VIN on the car. A VIN can be located in a few different places: the dashboard on the driver's side, the car's frame between the carburetor and the windshield wiper, the front engine block, the rear wheel wells, the door jambs or the trunk under the spare tire.

    2

    Write down the number carefully. If you make a mistake, you will not obtain the proper information about the car you plan to buy. Review the number once or twice to ensure that you have copied it correctly.

    3

    Go to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In most states, the DMV will provide a VIN check for free. The car history report generated by a VIN search will tell you about accidents, major maintenance and any potential odometer issues.

    4

    Use the Internet to research the VIN. The National Insurance Crime Bureau, a nonprofit organization devoted to fighting insurance fraud and other crimes, offers a free VIN check service. On the website, simply enter the VIN, agree to the terms of service, type in the verification code and hit "Search."

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Suzuki Car Specifications

Suzuki Motors produces five automobile models for the 2011 model year: the sport sedan Kizashi, the compact SX4 Sport and Sedan, the SX4 Crossover and the sport utility vehicle Grand Vitara. Suzuki cars, except the Grand Vitara, garner at least 30 mpg in highway driving, according to Suzuki. Prices in 2010 range from $13,350 for SX4 Sedan to about $20,000 for the Grand Vitara sport utility vehicle.

Grand Vitara

    The Grand Vitara is Suzuki's entry into the conventional SUV market and modestly priced just under $20,000 in 2010. It's equipped with a 166-horsepower 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder engine or a 230-horsepower 3.2-liter V6. Both engines have fuel injection. The vehicle measures from bumper to bumper at 175.8 inches on a 103.9-inch wheelbase. The Grand Vitara's chassis features rack and pinion steering, MacPherson struts in the front suspension and a multi-link suspension system in the rear. All-wheel disc brakes, with the front disc ventilated, provide stopping power.

SX4 Crossover

    The SX4 Crossover, which costs about $16,000 in 2010, provides passenger car qualities in a vehicle designed like a SUV. It is powered by a modest fuel-injected 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine generating 150 horsepower when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission or 148 horsepower with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). A CVT features an infinite number of gear ratios to shift gears under any driving conditions and speed. The SX4 Crossover features a wheelbase measuring 98.4 inches, with an overall length of 162.8 inches. The suspension and steering systems are the same as the Grand Vitara's except for the torsion beam rear suspension.

SX4 Sedan and SX4 Sport

    The SX4 Sedan and SX4 Sport are equipped with the same fuel-injected 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine as the Crossover model. The Sedan sits on a 98.4-inch wheelbase and is 176.8 inches long. The Sport model features the same wheelbase measurements, but is just 162.8 inches long. The Sedan and Sport also possess the same suspension system as the Crossover. Prices for the two models in 2010 range from $13,350 to $16,200.

Kizashi

    The Kizashi comes in four trim levels: the base S, the mid-level SE and GTS and the top-line SLS. Statring price in 2010 for the Kizashi is about $19,000. Its power comes from a fuel-injected 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder engine generating 185 horsepower. Suzuki placed the Kizashi on a mid-sized wheelbase of 106.3 inches. The car is 183.1 inches long from bumper to bumper. The chassis features rack and pinion electronic power steering; MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension system in the rear. All-wheel disc brakes, with the two front discs ventilated, stop the car.

How to Make a Future Car of Your Own on the Computer

How to Make a Future Car of Your Own on the Computer

If you'll be on the market for a new car in the near future, it is possible to design one of your own on the Internet. This is an option provided by most car companies, letting you completely customize your vehicle, and without ever setting foot in a show room. Such a feature allows you to determine exactly what you want before you set out to buy a new car.

Instructions

    1

    Open your Internet browser and navigate to the manufacturing website of the model car you want to design (such as "Ford.com" or "Toyota.com").

    2

    Select the vehicles lineup on the website, then choose the type of car you are interested in designing. Click the "Build Your Own" option (the exact phrasing may vary slightly, depending on the website you're using).

    3

    Click on all the additional features you want (spoilers, rims, custom decals, interior leather) and click the "Continue" option. You are given a price for your designed car and told what local dealerships you are able to purchase the vehicle from.

How to Look for Wrecked Nissan Pickups

If you have a Nissan pickup truck that needs repairs, requires parts or if you want to purchase a damaged Nissan truck and repair it, locating the best wrecked Nissan for the money is essential. Finding a wrecked Nissan truck requires research, both locally and online, to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Instructions

    1

    Call or visit your local salvage or junk yard. Tell the associate you are looking for a wrecked Nissan pickup truck. Provide the year and model you are trying to locate. If they do not have one, leave your name and telephone number since they receive new vehicles on a regular basis.

    2

    Use an online wrecked or salvaged vehicle locator, such as Salvagecarsale.com, Automotix.net and Salvageauto.com, and enter your search criteria for a Nissan truck. These sites often provide wrecked Nissan pickup trucks that insurance companies are offering for sale.

    3

    Purchase a copy of your local newspaper or view it online if it is available. Look in the classified section under the "Autos for Sale." Review the ads for a wrecked Nissan pickup.

    4

    Place an advertisement in your local newspaper. Run a "Wanted" ad and supply the details regarding what year and model of Nissan pickup you want to buy. Include the extent of damage you are willing to accept and your contact information.

    5

    Call insurance companies in your area. Ask how they handle wrecked vehicles they own. Tell them you want to purchase a wrecked Nissan pickup.

Lexus GS350 Specifications

The 2010 Lexus GS 350 features some minor trim and technological upgrades. The optional navigation system now features voice recognition and has weather and traffic capability. The vehicle has iPod and USB connectivity, and even satellite radio. Emergency communications have also been added along with more comfortable front active headrests.

Lexus GSA 350 Performance Specs

    The basic engine in the 2010 Lexus GS 350 is a 3.5-liter V-6 that produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. Torque is 274 foot-pounds at 3,600 rpm. Fuel tank capacity is 18.8 gallons. Mileage estimates range from 19 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, to 26 mpg on the highway.

Lexus GS 350 Exterior Specs

    The length of the GS 350 is 190 inches with a width of 71.7 inches. The vehicle's height is 56.1 inches and has a wheelbase of 112.2 inches. The gross weight of the GS 350 is 4,541 lbs.

Lexus GS 350 Interior Specs

    The GS 350 has 38 inches of front headroom and 37 inches of rear headroom. Front shoulder room is 56 inches with the rear at 55 inches. Passengers have 36.5 inches of rear legroom and 43.5 inches of front legroom. There's seating for five passengers with an available maximum cargo space of 12.7 cubic feet.

Monday, March 21, 2016

The Disadvantages of Electric Cars

The first electric automobile was developed in 1891 by William Morrison. An electric car works using electricity instead of gas, which is why electric cars are making a comeback in a time of high gas prices. While it is a viable alternative to a regular gas-powered car, there are a few disadvantages to buying and driving an electric vehicle that you should consider before you buy one.

Cost

    Electric cars are more expensive than regular gas-powered cars. For instance, the Phoenix, a midsized SUV, costs about $45,000. An SUV like the Honda Pilot, which is similar in size and features, goes for around $30,000. (Some people balance this additional cost by considering the money that will be saved on gas.)

Limited Sessions

    All-electric vehicles can only last for about 100 miles before they need to be plugged back in and recharged. If you need to drive more than 100 miles and you don't have a power source, you will be stranded and the car will have to be towed to a charging unit in order to get it back in operation. Because of this, these cars are not for people who do a lot of highway driving, road-tripping or commuting. An electric car is an ideal choice, on the other hand, for people who use it to run quick errands around town.

Hard to Find Plug-In Stations

    Adding to the aggravation of running out of power on the road, it is very difficult to find plug-in stations when driving an all-electric vehicle. Some parks, stores and rest stops have these charging stations, but the driver must do extensive research to find them. Some stations charge you to use the power source.

Insurance

    Some insurance companies look at electric vehicles as riskier, so an electric car could be more expensive to insure. The higher cost could be due to a variety of factors, such as the hazard of running out of power in inopportune locations, the higher price tag on the car and the additional risks involved when you are dealing with electricity.

Speed

    Many electric vehicles are very limited in the speeds that they can reach. Some can only reach about 25 miles per hour while others can only go as fast as 65 miles per hour. For this reason, many electric cars travel in the slow lane on highways. Some models, like the Phoenix all-electric car, claims to reach as high as 100 miles per hour, but that is still low compared to gas-powered cars that reach as high as 120 to 140 miles per hour. Some electric cars are also considered "sluggish" and slow to accelerate.

Sunday, March 20, 2016

How to Customize a Chevy Truck Online

How to Customize a Chevy Truck Online

Chevolet.com has built-in online tools to help you customize your new truck and have it delivered to a local dealer. You can select interior and exterior options for your new truck whether you need a work truck or one outfitted for comfort and luxury.

Instructions

    1

    Go to "Chevrolet.com"

    2

    Hover your cursor over "Vehicles" at the top of the web page and left-click "Trucks" in the drop down menu. A page displaying all the trucks available from Chevrolet opens.

    3

    Left click the image of the truck you want to customize. A pop up window appears that displays the specifications of your selected truck and the base price.

    4

    Left click the colored squares to preview. Select a color.

    5

    Left click the "Build Your Own" button. A new page opens with the trim package options.

    6

    Left click the "Compare These Trims Side-By-Side" button if your are unfamiliar with the differences in the trims. They range from basic work truck to a luxury truck equipped with lots of power.

    7

    Left click the radio button next to "2 Wheel Drive" or "4 Whee Drive" according to your preference under the trim package you want to select.

    8

    Left-click the "Select" button to further customize your truck. A pop up window appears.

    9

    Left click the "Select" button that best indicates the cab and bed option your want. A new page opens with a preview of your truck at the top.

    10

    Left click, hold and drag the preview image at the top for a 360 degree view of your truck.

    11

    Left click any check boxes or radio buttons to add or remove options from your truck under "Add Or Remove Any Additional Options." As you click and unclick options, your preview image will change accordingly. The right side of the page also updates the total cost of your customized truck.

    12

    Left click the "Next: Summary" button to view a summary of all your chosen options. A new page appears displaying the summary.

    13

    Left click the appropriate button to view local inventory, get an estimated value on your trade-in, request a quote or get and estimate of your monthly payment amount.

What Is an Auto Branded Title?

What Is an Auto Branded Title?

A branded title provides information about a vehicle's usage history. Types of auto branded titles differ in every state. Common branded titles include Recreational Vehicle, Manufactured Home, Repossession, Non-highway, Flood, Motor Exchange, Body Exchange, Rebuilt Salvage and Salvage. Other branded titles include Original Taxi, Prior Taxi and Lemon Law Buyback.

History

    In the mid-1990s, the U.S. Department of Justice created the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System, a database of auto-titling information accessible to states, businesses and consumers. Since its creation, NMVTIS has provided vehicle histories to many buyers and protected them from purchasing significantly damaged or stolen vehicles.

Process

    Consumers can now easily check the history of vehicles online. For those looking to purchase a used car, the history of the car can now be checked by visiting NMVTIS.gov and entering the vehicle identification number (VIN). The unique history of the car will be displayed and can be printed.

Function

    The report from NMVTIS.gov covers five points: the state of vehicle title, branded title details, odometer reading history, total loss history and salvage history. Armed with this information before buying, consumers can be certain not to overpay and ensure vehicles have not been stolen or misrepresented and are safe to operate.

Saturday, March 19, 2016

How to Pay Sales Tax on an RV in Pennsylvania

When buying an RV it is important to plan your purchase carefully. If you live in Pennsylvania, your vehicle purchase is subject to sales tax, so you need to factor the sales tax into your budget as you shop.

Instructions

    1

    Shop for the RV you want. As you shop, be sure to factor the sales tax into the equation. As of 2010, the vehicle sales tax in Pennsylvania was 6 percent; so multiply the purchase price by 6 percent to get the amount of sales tax you will owe. Buying a used RV from a private seller is often the most cost-effective way to go, but be aware that state sales tax rules still apply.

    2

    Make your best deal with the private owner of the RV. Find a notary public in your area and travel to that notary with the seller of the vehicle. Be prepared to pay a separate fee for the notary work.

    3

    The sales tax due will be calculated based on the purchase price of the RV, but keep in mind that if that purchase price is significantly below fair market value the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania may make an inquiry and seek additional sales taxes. In Pennsylvania, the sales tax is based on the fair market value of the vehicle being sold. If your purchase price is close to the value shown in a reputable RV guide there should be no problem.

    4

    Write a check payable to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue and give it to the notary, along with all of your other paperwork. The notary will submit all of the sale documents for the RV, including the bill of sale, the vehicle report, the title and the sales tax payment, to the Commonwealth on your behalf.

Hummer H1 Vs. Hummer H2

Hummer H1 Vs. Hummer H2

Hummer cars may not sell many units in this age of high gas prices and hybrid cars, but for the off-road enthusiast, they are still popular and sought after. Learn the difference between the Hummer H1 and Hummer H2 powertrains, transmissions, off-roader dimensional stats and the ideal type of buyer for each car.

Hummer H1 vs. Hummer H2 Engines

    Under the hood, the Hummer H1 and H2 are two different beasts entirely. The H1 is a turbo diesel 8-cylinder, pushing out 300 horsepower and 520 lb-ft. of torque through 6.6 liters of displacement. The motor is known for its monstrous low-end perfection for hill climbing and getting out of sticky situations. The price is terrible fuel economy, with some drivers reporting as low as 8 mpg.

    The H2 runs off gasoline and has plenty of power for the dirt tracks, but it is a little more at home in the city. The 2009 H2 has a 6.2-liter gasoline engine that will also run off E85 Ethanol, outputting 393 horsepower but only 452 lb-ft. of torque.

Hummer H1 vs. Hummer H2 Transmissions

    Both the Hummer H1 and H2 feature extremely low final drive ratios, showing their military off-road roots. The Hummer H1 carries a 5-speed automatic with a final drive ratio of 2.56:1. In layman's terms, it is the best vehicle on the road for serious rock climbing.

    While the H2 has more horsepower, its final drive ratio is a more pedestrian 3.73:1. Some have questioned the H2's off-road abilities, calling it better for picking up a load of groceries than for weekends at the dunes. If the dirt tracks are your thing, look for an H1 or an H3.

Hummer H1 vs. Hummer H2 Dimensions

    The H1 has a full 16 inches of ground clearance, is a whopping 185.6 inches long and 86.5 inches wide. The H2 is actually slightly longer at 203.6 inches, though only 81.2 inches wide. The H2 carries only 9.7 inches of ground clearance, though, making it much more prone to getting stuck on the trail.

H1 or H2

    If you must buy a Hummer, avoid the H2 and go for an H1 or an H3 instead. The H2 has become commonplace, and the H2 is not all that capable on the dirt trails. Both H1 and H2 make a big statement about who you are as a person, with their bold, military-derived styling.

    The H1 looks like a military vehicle because it is. Its interior consists of a big central table with four seats pushed toward the corners. The H2 has a much more cushy interior because it is a watered-down military design redesigned as a weekend rumbler.

H1 vs H2 Comparison Winner

    If you seek to be unique on the road and do not care too much about comfort or fuel economy, spring for the H1. It will turn heads because there are so few on the road, especially with custom paint.

    The H2 is not all that capable on the dirt, and they are all over the road. Avoid the H2 and get an H3 instead if you want the Hummer image, plus a truck you can actually live with on a day-to-day basis.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

About the 1991 Corvette

The 1991 Chevrolet Corvette was part of the fourth generation family (produced between 1984 and 1996) of GM's two-seat sports cars. The 1991 model marked the emergence of the Corvette from the disastrous 1970s and 1980s, a period best remembered for fuel shortages and tough emission standards that eventually gutted the high horsepower output of American-made engines. The Corvette C4 possessed a relatively pedestrian styling, but the ZR1 wielded massive raw power, which echoed the Vette's earlier muscled performance.

Under the Hood

    Three 5.7-liter V-8 engines powered the 1991 Corvette with vastly different horsepower ratings. The base Corvette featured a L98 V-8 that generated 240 horsepower and 345 foot-pounds of torque. Some versions featured 245-horsepower ratings. This standard engine could reach zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.1 seconds. The high-performance ZR1 model was equipped with the LT5 V-8, which developed 375 horsepower and 370 foot-pounds of torque to reach 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and the quarter mile in 13.4 seconds. Callaway Performance Engineering produced the 1991 Callaway TT Corvette in limited numbers. The Callaway TT featured the Twin Turbocharged L98 V-8, which wielded 345 horsepower and 465 foot-pounds of torque. Some Callaway TTs generated up to 450 horsepower and 613 foot-pounds of torque. The 450-horsepower version hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and the quarter mile in 12.7 seconds. ZF six-speed manual transmissions or four-speed automatics were mated to the engines.

Dimensions

    All base 1991 Corvettes sat on a short 96.2-inch wheelbase with an overall body length of 178.6 inches. The Callaway TT and ZR1 were about an inch longer. The car was low-slung at just 46.4 inches in height, and it measured 71 inches in width. The base model's curb weight was 3,263 pounds. The interior was typically tight for the two-seat Corvette. Headroom measured 36.4 inches and legroom measured 42.6 inches. The Corvette had a 20-gallon fuel tank.

Chassis

    The Corvette featured composite body panels wrapped over a steel frame. The front suspension featured unequal A-arms with dampers, an anti-sway bar and transverse leaf springs. The rear had upper/lower trailing arms, dampers, an anti-sway bar and transverse leaf springs. The Vette stopped with the assistance of 12.9-inch vented discs mounted in the front and 11.9-inch vented discs mounted in the rear. The wheels were 17-inch alloys.

Features and Production

    Chevrolet redesigned the ZR1 models from the 1990 model year with a restyled rear featuring four rectangular taillamps and wraparound fog, parking and cornering lights at the front. All 1991 models featured power assisted brakes, a tachometer, cruise control, cloth seats and power windows, exterior mirrors and door locks. Options included leather seats, power driver and passenger seats, and an AM/FM/CD Bose stereo system. Chevrolet produced 14,967 base Corvette coupes and 5,672 convertibles; ZR1 models numbered 2,044; 62 Callaway TT models left the Callaway factory.

1992 Ford F150 Specs

1992 Ford F150 Specs

The 1992 Ford F-150 is a light pickup truck produced by the Ford Motor Company. As part of the F-series line of trucks, introduced in 1948, the truck is ideal for carrying smaller loads and towing recreational vehicles. The F-150 is available in a wide array of configurations.

Model and Production

    The 1992 Ford F-150 was manufactured as part of the ninth F-150 generation. The 1992 version of this truck was produced with a more rounded front end and a new dashboard. The "flareside" bed returned until 1996. The "Nite" package also continued until the following model year. This is an appearance package that included black paint and trim with a multicolor stripe.

Trim Levels

    Ford's 1992 F-150 is available in two trim levels: the base or S model, and the custom model. Within each of the trim levels, consumers can choose from a regular cab or super cab, in addition to either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

Engine

    On all of the 1992 F-150 models, the standard engine is a 4.9 liter V-6 with 145 horsepower. For those looking for more power, there is an optional 5.0 liter engine with 185 horsepower or an optional 5.8 liter engine with 200 horsepower.

Dimensions

    The 1992 F-150 is available in differing lengths, ranging from 197.1 inches in length to 235.3 inches in length. All editions are 79 inches wide. The Ford F-150 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is 5250 pounds to 6250 pounds, depending on the model.

Other Specs

    The standard transmission for the 1992 F-150 is a five-speed manual with overdrive. The four-speed automatic and four-speed manual transmissions, both with overdrive, are optional. Average fuel economy for the Ford F-150 is 15 miles per gallon in the city and 18 to 19 miles per gallon on the highway. 1992 F-150 trucks all have rear wheel anti-lock braking or ABS.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

How to Compare MPG for Seven Passenger Vehicles

This How To article provides the steps to compare miles-per-gallon ratings for seven-passenger gasoline, diesel and hybrid vehicles.

Instructions

Choosing a Vehicle

    1

    Decide whether you want a van, a minivan, a sport utility vehicle or a crossover, which blends a car-like ride with the stance of an SUV. Engine size influences MPGs. A six-cylinder engine is smaller and therefore more fuel-efficient than a larger eight-cylinder engine. In addition to manufacturer's Web sites, independent sites such as Cars.com provide buying guides to determine which vehicle fits your needs.

    2

    Gasoline powered vehicles are the most common, and gasoline costs less per gallon than diesel.

    3

    Diesel engines are more powerful and approximately 30-35 percent more fuel-efficient than similar-sized gasoline engines.

    4

    Hybrids offer greater MPGs than gasoline or diesel, but they are maintained differently than a traditional gasoline or diesel-powered engine.

Compare MPGs at Fueleconomy.gov

    5

    While manufacturer's sites provide MPG estimates, they are not as thorough as the government site. On fueleconomy.gov, you can compare gasoline-powered vehicles across multiple manufacturers by criteria including year, size class, make and MPG rating. The site also offers an MPG comparison of diesel and hybrid vehicles.

    6

    The search results for gasoline-powered vehicles display the estimated city and highway MPGs as well as the estimated annual fuel cost per vehicle. Results also include an estimated carbon footprint, defined as the impact on climate change in tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year. The carbon footprint estimate includes the vehicle's annual CO2 emissions in tons-per-year, along with the CO2 emitted in producing and distributing the fuel. The gasoline results also include an "energy impact score," which the site defines as "the number of barrels of petroleum the vehicle will likely consume each year." This score does not include ethanol and other non-petroleum fuels. The site also includes a list of the most and least fuel-efficient vehicles organized by size class.

    7

    The results for diesel-powered vehicles also include the estimated city and highway MPGs, the estimated annual fuel cost per vehicle and the estimated carbon footprint. Instead of an energy impact score, diesel results display an air pollution score for all states except California and Nebraska. The air pollution score is the amount of health-damaging and smog-forming airborne pollutants the vehicle emits. Scoring ranges from 0 (worst) to 10 (best) and does not include emissions of greenhouse gases.

    8

    The results for hybrid vehicles include the estimated city and highway MPGs, the estimated annual fuel cost per vehicle, the estimated carbon footprint and the air pollution score.

How to Return a Defective Used Car to the Dealership

How to Return a Defective Used Car to the Dealership

Purchasing a used car can be tricky. The risk of buying a lemon is always present, and you never know what to expect from your used car. However, if you purchase a defective used car from a dealership, you may be able to return it under certain conditions. Nevertheless, as a buyer, you should be aware that many used cars are sold "as is."

Instructions

    1

    Call the dealership immediately when you discover a defect in your newly purchased used car. Or, if you are nearby when you discover the issue, stop in and let them see the problem themselves. By contacting them as soon as possible after discovering the problem, the possibility of them declaring that the defect is a result of wear-and-tear or abuse is lessened. If you can't get in touch with them immediately, stop driving the vehicle when you get it home. If possible, do not drive it again until you have spoken with them. Note the mileage when the defect was noticed.

    2

    Review all paperwork you signed when purchasing the vehicle and any other documents that pertain to your purchase. Often, warranty information is included in these documents. The documents should indicate the length of any available warranty and the conditions. Also, the mechanical parts warrantied should be specified. If the vehicle is not under warranty, most dealerships offer a 15-day or two-week warranty for any immediate or catastrophic mechanical failures, unless the vehicle is sold "as is."

    3

    Negotiate with the dealership if you have no warranty on your vehicle or it has just gone out of warranty. If they will not replace or repair it for free, they may agree to repair the problem at a discounted rate.

    4

    Stop payment on your check if the check hasn't yet cleared the bank. If the dealership refuses to work with you on any repairs or refuses to accept the returned vehicle, contact your bank and request a "Stop Payment" be placed on the check.

    5

    Contact an attorney. Some states have lemon laws or other laws that protect consumers from merchants. An attorney should be able to help you negotiate with the dealer.

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

2005 Dodge Charger Performance

The Dodge Charger LX series began production in 2005 for the 2006 model year. It's equipped with a 3.5L V6 or the 5.7L or 6.1L Hemi V8. The LX is not related to the 1966 to 1978 Chargers.

Charger SE Sedan

    The base 2005/2006 Dodge Charger features a 3.5L V6 engine with a 10:1 compression ratio to deliver 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-feet of torque. The torque gives the Charger its acceleration from a stop.

SE Sedan Performance

    The V6-equipped SE sedan earns 19 mpg in urban driving and 27 on the open road. It can reach zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds.

Charger Daytona R/T

    The 2005/2006 Charger Daytona R/T features a 5.7L Hemi V8 that uses premium 91-octane unleaded fuel, unlike the V6, which uses regular unleaded. The Hemi has a 9.6:1 compression ratio to help generate 350 horsepower and 390 lb.-feet of torque.

Daytona R/T Performance

    The Hemi-equipped 2005/2006 Daytona R/T achieves 17 mpg in the city and 25 on rural roads. It can hit zero to 60 mph in 6 seconds.

Charger SRT-8

    The Charger SRT-8, which debuted in 2005, is equipped with a 6.1L Hemi V8 that develops 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-feet of torque. It can reach zero to 60 mph in 5 seconds. It earns an overall 18.5 mpg.

Sunday, March 13, 2016

Laws for Private Auto Sales

Laws for Private Auto Sales

When buying a car from a car dealer, you are covered by state laws. These are applicable for used cars bought from dealers as well. When purchasing from a person, or private seller, the same laws do not apply unless specified in a contract. However, most states do have laws in place to offer some protection to the buyer.

Manufacturer's Warranty

    If the car purchased from a private sale is still covered by the manufacturer warranty, then the warranty is still effective after the sale. Ask the seller if there are any warranties left on the vehicle and ask to see paperwork regarding a warranty if there is one. Make sure that the warranty states that it can be transferred.

State Inspection

    In most states, the seller must ensure that the vehicle will pass a state inspection, including the emissions test. If the auto does not pass, the sale would not be valid. Make sure that you have paperwork that states the car has passed.

Used Vehicle Warranty Law

    States vary in the protection offered, but some states have laws to protect those who buy from private sellers. For instance, in Massachussetts a seller must inform the buyer about any known defects that the car may have. If a defect is discovered by the buyer at a later time, and they can prove that the seller did indeed know about it, the buyer can request a refund within 30 days of the purchase.

Odometer Fraud

    It is fraud to turn back the odometer or to reset the mileage in any way. If the buyer proves that the odometer has been reset, not only shall a full refund plus penalties as allowed by law be requird, but in many states it is an offense that is punishable by law.

Written Contract

    If in doubt about the coverage you will have when buying from a private seller, you can write up a contract that both will sign that states the terms of the sale. The contract, as long as signed by both parties, is more binding than an oral agreement would be and will be in effect even if state law does not cover the options written in the contract.

The Best Small Four-Door Cars

The Best Small Four-Door Cars

With today's economy many consumers may want to buy smaller cars that are fuel efficient and have a cheaper price tag. Most compact cars, however, despite being fuel efficient all are not entirely family friendly. Searching through the automotive market, four-door compact cars can be found that are not only family friendly, but fuel efficient and reasonably priced. The following list has been compiled using affordable pricing, customer satisfaction, fuel efficiency and over all look.

Honda Fit

    The Honda Fit may be a small car but it has a surprising amount of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. Given the Fits dimensions as a compact four-door hatchback it retains comfortable seating, even in the back. It also has a tough outer shell that blends a fashionable design along with safety. The Fit runs 109 horsepower with a 1.5 liter four-cylinder engine and can get an estimated 28 city and 34 highway miles per gallon. As of October 2010, you can purchase the Fit for around $14,900.

Chevrolet Aveo

    The Aveo seats five people comfortably and has a good amount of cargo space. This four door is available in a both a sedan and hatchback model with two different trim options: the LS and the LT. The Aveo is built taller lending more head room, but leaving the outer appearance lacking. Having a 60/40 split rear seat allows for more cargo room, allowing for larger cargo to be carried in the interior of the car. The Aveo comes with a 103 horsepower, 1.6 liter engine. This little Chevy averages 24 city and 34 highway miles per gallon. As of 2010, you can purchase the Aveo for $11,501 to $13,154.

Kia Rio

    If you are on a strict budget, then the Kia Rio is the perfect small four-door car. The Rio has impressive head and leg room in the back. With a good amount of cargo room tucked under the hatch. The downside of the Rio is the loud engine noise when accelerating and moving at a higher rate of speed. The Rio gets 27 city miles per gallon and 34 highway miles per gallon which makes it high on the fuel-efficient list. It runs on 110 horsepower with a 1.6 liter engine. The Rio is a spacious and stylish compact car. As of 2010, you can purchase a Rio starting at $12,295.

Scion xD

    The Scion xD has a roomy interior with a lot of headroom. The rear seat also reclines and moves forward and backward giving more room for passengers and cargo. It will fit four medium-sized adults comfortably. If your looking for a car that has a lot of extras then the xD is the right choice. You can get keyless entry, navigation, spoiler and a few other TRD performance upgrades. One draw back to the Scion is that it has small windows making visibility more difficult. It gets 27 city and 33 highway miles per gallon. As of 2010, the purchase price of a Scion starts at $13,822.

Nissan Versa

    The Versa is roomy given its compact dimensions. There is plenty of head and leg room in the front and back, allowing someone over 6-foot to ride comfortably. The Versa comes with a lot of highend options like, keyless entry, satellite radio and bluetooth. The suspension in the Versa makes for a comfortable ride and the handling is more then adequate. You can get the Versa as a hatchback or sedan, both models have 122 horsepower with 1.8 liter engine. It gets 26 city and 31 highway miles per gallon. As of 2010 the Versa starts at $9,990 for a sedan and $13,570 for a hatchback.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems

Mitsubishi Montero Sport Problems

The Montero Sport is a mid-size SUV that Japanese automaker Mitsubishi produced for the North and South American markets between 1997 and 2004. Affecting most model-year entries of its production run are moderate to significant problems.

Engine

    The most common problem with the Mitsubishi Montero Sport concerns the engine. The 2002 Montero Sport in particular--but also, to a lesser degree, the 1998 to 2001 and 2003 model-years--are prone to failure of the oxygen sensor heater circuits; its malfunction reduces gas mileage and increases emissions. Additionally, some 1997 to 1999 vehicles were recalled for a loose bolt securing the crankshaft pulley--a problem that can cause loss of power steering.

Other Problems

    Other common problems with the Mitsubishi Montero Sport include transmission leaks onto the hot exhaust system caused by transmission heat generation, and faulty brake vacuum hoses. Some Montero Sport vehicles from the 1999 to 2001 model-years were recalled for these problems.

Cost

    As of September 2010, it costs about $166 for parts and $39 for labor to replace each of the four oxygen sensors. Repairs made, as a result of recalls, are free of charge; owners just need to take their vehicles to an authorized Mitsubishi dealer.

Gas Mileage Ratings of Cars & SUVs

Gas Mileage Ratings of Cars & SUVs

These days it's important to know what kind of gas mileage a car or SUV will get before making a purchase. It's easy to find the city and highway mileage estimates of new and used vehicles, and to make comparisons.

Collect detailed info

    You may have the make, model and year of a vehicle, but you'll also need to know the exact version to determine the mileage. Many cars of the same model have different available engine sizes, a factor which can greatly affect mileage.

Check the mileage ratings

    The best place to start is fueleconomy.gov, which lists the gas mileage of all new and used vehicles. Bear in mind that these are the figures estimated by the car manufacturers.

Check the consumer mileage

    Estimates under perfect conditions are one thing, but what are consumers actually getting when it comes to gas mileage? Visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/mpg/MPG.do?action=browseList to see what motorists are getting in the real world.

Consider the fuel cost

    Mileage is easy to compare, but if you're comparing gasoline versus diesel, you'll need to factor in the costs of the fuels. These two fuels rarely cost the same at the pump.

The hybrid factor

    Take note that many hybrids get better gas mileage in the city than on the highway, which is the opposite of conventional vehicles.

Saturday, March 12, 2016

2002 Jetta Features

Fans of the Volkswagen Jetta enjoy its power and nimble handling, and some choose the diesel option which has outstanding fuel efficiency. The 2002 Jetta featured a number of changes or improvements over prior years.

Size

    A four-door sedan with a trunk, the 2002 Jetta was more than 7 inches longer than the Volkswagen Golf, at 172 inches. The 2002 Jetta was 59 inches tall, 68.3 inches wide, and had a 98.9-inch wheelbase, equal at the time to the Volkswagen Golf. Standard tires were 16 inches, with 17-inch alloy wheels optional.

Engine

    A standard five-speed-manual and optional four-speed automatic transmission were available in the 2002 models. The GL and GLS sedans came with two engine choices: a 115-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, or a 90-horsepower, turbocharged, 1.9-liter, direct-injection four-cylinder diesel engine. The GLS 1.8T model featured a turbocharged, 180-horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine, and in 2002 was designed with a new five-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

    The 2002 Jetta featured a number of standard safety features. These included side-impact airbags and curtain-type airbags that deployed from the ceiling, along with anti-lock brakes. All-speed traction control was standard on V-6 turbo or 1.8-liter turbo models.

How do I Identify a 1969 GTO Judge?

Because of the intense competition between muscle car makers for sales, and because the GTO had been released five years earlier in 1964, the sales for the standard GTO had started to fall off by 1969. As a result, Pontiac created the Judge add-on package. For $332, GTO purchasers could convert the standard version of the car into a muscle car that could compete with its peers on the open market. Identify 1969 GTO Judge by looking for the add-on features that distinguish the Judge from the standard GTO.

Instructions

    1

    Identify the year, make and model of the car in question. Since Pontiac made the Judge add-ons available from 1969 to 1971, examine the car's title, if available, to ensure that you are in fact examining the 1969 model. You may also need to search for the vehicle identification number (VIN) to identify the car.

    2

    Locate the decals on the Judge. Pontiac added Ram Air decals to the sides of the hood scoops, Judge decals to the front fenders and multicolored pin stripping running from the front fender to the C-piller.

    3

    Examine the rear of the car to determine whether the car has, or has had, a spoiler. The GTO Judge has a 60-inch spoiler across the lid of the trunk. If the spoiler has been removed, look inside the trunk for evidence, such as screw holes, that it was once attached.

    4

    Examine the car's interior for distinctive Judge characteristics. Some GTO Judges had a small emblem on the glove box. Pontiac canceled this emblem for a short time, and it may not be present in all Judges. Also, cars with a manual transmission had a T-shaped gearshift handle.

    5

    Verify the engine type. A standard GTO came equipped with a 350-horsepower, 400 cubic-inch engine. Pontiac upgraded its Judges to include Ram Air engines of various sizes, depending on the upgrade selected. A basic Judge came equipped with a Ram Air III---a high flow, 366-horsepower engine. An upgraded Ram Air IV was also available, which ran at 370 horsepower. The presence of any Ram Air engine indicates a Judge upgrade.

Friday, March 11, 2016

How to Buy a Program Car

How to Buy a Program Car

If you are in the market for a car that is as good as new, but you don't want to pay a new car price, then a program car could be what you are looking for. A program car is a new car that has usually between 10,000 to 30,000 miles. Because the cars are directly from new car dealerships, the auto factories and rental car agencies, they are likely to have been well-maintained.

Instructions

    1

    Decide what model of program car you would like to purchase and determine the price for the vehicle by calling dealerships, checking out dealership websites, the Kelley Blue Book, Automobile Consumer Services and car magazines. Try to get at least two quotes.

    2

    Call or visit authorized dealerships for the car model you desire to purchase. Ask the dealership whether or not it has any program cars available in your choice of model.

    3

    View the program car to ensure that it meets your specifications regarding mileage, features, etc. Request to take the program car for a test drive.

    4

    Check the car's maintenance records. Most of the program cars will have excellent maintenance records because they came from rental car agencies that ensured the vehicles were properly maintained. Also dealerships properly maintain their own cars because they have in-house maintenance and repair shops.

    5

    Obtain a vehicle history report for the car. You can obtain a vehicle history report at CarFax (See "Resources.) The initial CarFax report is free. You only have to pay if there are negative items on the report that should be brought to your attention.

Cars That Look Like Jeeps

Cars That Look Like Jeeps

Often the brand name Jeep--a domestic car company owned by DaimlerChrysler--is used to describe almost any SUV, whether or not it's a Jeep. The iconic four-wheel drive military-type vehicle has, according to Edmunds, a loyal following. However, if for some reason you'd like to own a car that looks like a Jeep but isn't a Jeep, there are several makes and models to choose from, both domestic and foreign. These smaller vehicles still have excellent towing capacity and a good deal of storage for whatever you need to haul. With a shorter body and a narrower profile, these vehicles are a good substitute for the dimensions of a Jeep without sacrificing any of the quality. What you do sacrifice, however, is that telltale grill that makes a Jeep a Jeep.

Toyota Rav4

    Starting at $22,025, the Toyota Rav4 features 28 mpg highway and comes in three separate makes: the Rav4, the Rav4 Sport, and the Rav4 Limited. All are priced under $25,000 and come with Toyota's exclusive Toyota Care warranty package. All have halogen headlamps, hill start assist, downhill assist, high solar energy absorbing glass, timed rear window defogger and a hard spare tire cover. They come with a basic 36,000 mile warranty and have a climate control and audio system as standard features.

Honda CRV

    The Honda CRV has a suggested retail price that is rather low for a SUV, which is just over $21,000. It has a very fuel efficient engine at 28 MPG on the highway and has both two wheel and four wheel drive options. It is an ultra low emission vehicle, and has privacy glass in the rear for a private driving experience. It comes with a Bluetooth hands-free link and an optional Honda designed navigation system that requires no subscription service. He has a leather trimmed interior and has a compact, aerodynamic shape. It has the standard 17 inch wheels and can deliver 180 horsepower with a i-VTEC four cylinder engine.

Suzuki Grand Vitara

    This SUV features a four cylinder engine with 26 MPG on the highway and comes in at under $20,000. It seats five individuals, has a luggage capacity of 12.5 square feet and a fuel tank that will hold 17 gallons of gas. It has a sunroof, a GPS system, and comes with an optional bike rack on the roof. It has a 2.4 liter engine with an all-aluminum engine and has 166 horsepower. It comes with a four speed automatic and comes with a towing package that rivals both Jeep and and Honda. It comes with four- wheel drive standard and can be changed to two wheel drive at the change of a dial. It comes with hill start assist. It has a towing feature that allows you tow your car without accumulating miles on the odometer.

What Are the Benefits of a Manual Transmission?

A manual transmission vehicle relies on the driver to manipulate the car's engine into different gears using a gearshift. Manuals used to rule the road, but some car makers report they make up a fraction of their annual sales. But manual transmission vehicles still offer drivers certain benefits, including reduced cost, fuel economy and a more involved driving experience.

Initial Expense

    If you know how to drive a standard transmission, you can save money. Edmunds.com estimates that an automatic transmission can increase the cost of a car by $1,000 over its manual transmission counterpart at purchase. Many car makers still make manual models, but there are not as many choices as there used to be. Manual transmissions are mostly limited to small vehicles or sports cars. Toyota recently reported that manuals account for 2 percent of their annuals sales.

Maintenance

    Maintenance is also less expensive. First, the fluid in a manual transmission needs less frequent changing. Plus, replacing the clutch in a manual transmission, which is the most likely culprit in the breakdown of a manual transmission, costs about $1,500 less than replacing the similar part in an automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

    Many car companies tout their economical automatic models. But some estimates put the gas savings at anywhere between 195 and 244 gallons of gas over the life span of a manual transmission as opposed to an automatic. In some models, that could be six months worth of gas, figuring gas at a cost of $4.10 per gallon. Testing by consumerreports.com concluded that manual transmissions can save 2 to 5 miles per gallon.

Control

    Because you're shifting gears, you're in control of the driving experience. That control can save you gas, if you're willing to keep the RPMs low on your engine. You can even drop the car into neutral as you approach a traffic signal, a move similar to the experience of hitting the brakes in a hybrid engine, Edmunds.com reports. Experienced drivers of manual transmissions can use the gears to manipulate the engine into giving them more power, which is helpful in less-than-ideal conditions, such as snow or rain.

Paying Attention

    Edmunds.com asserts that drivers who use manual transmissions are more attentive drivers, based on the fact that they must continually shift the vehicle's gears based on driving conditions.

1990 Mercury Topaz Specs

1990 Mercury Topaz Specs

The 1990 Mercury Topaz comes in two different models, the sedan and coupe. The sedan offers three trim options: the GS, LTS and LS. The coupe offers the XR5 and GS trim styles. They all possess a 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission, with an option for a three-speed automatic transmission. They also have a 15.9-gallon fuel tank capacity and use regular unleaded gasoline.

GS Sedan

    Standard features of the GS sedan include cloth bucket seats, exterior power mirrors, intermittent wipers, power steering and an AM/FM system. It also has 14-inch wheels with power brakes. Among the optional features are air conditioning, cruise control, power driver's seat, power locks, power windows, remote trunk release, roof rack, steering wheel with tilting capabilities, rear window defroster and a cassette deck. The GS engine has 124 foot-pounds of torque and possesses a maximum horsepower of 4400 revolutions per minute (rpm).

LTS Sedan

    The LTS model has all the standard and optional features of the GS, but also includes alloy wheels, a premium audio system and two-tone paint. Unlike the GS model, the LTS comes with the option of a driver's front airbag. The LTS engine has 130 foot-pounds of torque and a maximum horsepower of 4400 rpm.

LS Sedan

    Basic features on the LS include the standard and optional features of the GS sedan, with the exception of air conditioning and a power driver's seat. Options are air conditioning, driver's front airbag, polycast wheels and a power driver's seat. It has a maximum horsepower of 4400 rpm with 124 foot-pounds of torque.

XR5 Coupe

    The XR5 coupe has the standard options of the LS sedan with the exception of air conditioning, cruise control, roof rack as well as electric power capabilities in the driver's seat, windows and locks, which are all optional features of this model It also has the added standard feature of a rear spoiler. The GS engine has 130 foot-pounds of torque and a maximum horsepower of 4400 revolutions per minute.

GS Coupe

    The GS coupe's standard features are the same as those of the GS sedan. Optional features are also identical but add the option of polycast wheels. Also like the GS sedan, the GS has a maximum horsepower of 4400 rpm with 124 foot-pounds of torque.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

Maryland Used Car Sales Laws

Maryland Used Car Sales Laws

Buying a used car can save money. However, when buying used, you can sometimes be in for unfortunate surprises. Maryland has laws to protect used car buyers from buying defective automobiles; however, there isn't as much protection for used cars as there is for new cars.

Inspection Certificate

    Maryland requires that used car sellers give the buyer a Maryland State Inspection certificate. Buyers should make sure the VIN on the certificate matches the VIN on the car. This certificate is valid for 90 days. The inspection does not check for all problems, so buyers should still have a mechanic look over the car to see if it has any major defects.

Warranties

    Federal law requires that car dealers put a "buyers guide" sticker on each car. This sticker tells whether the car has a warranty or if it's being sold "as is". In Maryland, a dealer is only allowed to sell a used car "as is" if it is more than six years old and it has more than 60,000 miles on it. If these conditions don't exist, then the car has an implied warranty, which means that you can expect the car to work for a reasonable amount of time. If it does not, the dealer may be liable for repairs.

Lemon Laws

    In Maryland, the lemon laws cover cars that have serious problems, which cannot be repaired. The law covers these issues within the first 24 months of ownership or the first 18,000 miles. Unfortunately, lemon laws in Maryland do not apply to used cars.

How to Register Wrecked Vehicles in Texas

Since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many vehicle owners have been considering registering a wrecked or salvaged vehicle. In Texas, many of the vehicles that were totaled by insurance companies were still drivable. In order to legally register these vehicles in Texas, vehicle owners must follow specific protocol.

Instructions

    1

    Obtain Form 130-U (for a blue-colored rebuilt salvage title) from either from your local Department of Motor Vehicles office or by checking online (you can also call the DMV to find out the easiest way to obtain this form). Complete Form 130-U in its entirety, carefully reading through it and answer all questions.

    2

    Submit completed Form 130-U to the local Texas county tax office or where the vehicle was purchased. Show proper identification and pay the fee to the clerk at the counter. Call with question before visiting the county tax office if necessary (call the Vehicle Titles and Registration Division Office at 512-465-7611).

    3

    Wait for the title to arrive by mail at the address you gave the office. The title should arrive within three weeks of turning in the application.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

How Do I Tell What Year My Car Was Built?

You can determine the model year of your car from the vehicle identification number (VIN) on your car. Not only does the VIN serve as a theft deterrent by uniquely identifying the car, but it also provides information about location of manufacture, engine size and other features of your particular automobile.

Instructions

    1

    Look through the lower driver-side corner of the windshield from the outside to locate the VIN on the dashboard.

    2

    Read off the tenth digit from the left.

    3

    Interpret alphabetical digits into the model year as follows.
    A-1980
    B-1981

    4

    Skip I, O, Q, U and Z since they arent used to determine model year, since they look like numbers or like V.

    5

    Start counting numbers with year 2001. In other words, Y means 2000, 1 means 2001 and 2 means 2002.

    6

    Match up letters with years again starting with 2010. So 9 means 2009, A means 2010 and B means 2011.

Holden Vermont Commodore Engine Specifications

The origin of the company Holden Vermont dates back to 1856 when James A. Holden started the J.A. Holden and Co. in South Australia. Holden is now a subsidiary of General Motors (GM) under the name GM Holden. The Commodore is its top-selling passenger vehicle, according to GM. Depending on the model, it comes with either a V-6 or V-8 engine.

Holden Commodore Omega

    The Holden Commodore Omega features a 3-liter double overdrive cam V-6 engine with four valves on each cylinder. The 2,986 cc engine generates 254 horsepower at 6,700 rpm and 213 pounds-feet of torque at 2,900 rpm. The vehicle includes a six-speed automatic transmission.

Holden Commodore Omega LPG

    The Holden Commodore Omega LPG includes a four-speed automatic transmission and a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with a 60-degree dual overhead cam. The 3,564 cc engine produces 234 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 234 pounds-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm.

Holden Commodore Berlina International

    Holden Commodore Berlina International features a 3-liter V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle produces 254 horsepower at 6,700 rpm and 213 pounds-feet of torque at 2,900 rpm.

Holden Commodore Calais V-Series

    The Holden Commodore Calais V-Series vehicle features a 3.6-liter dual overhead cam V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The 3,564 cc engine produces 281 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque at 2,900 rpm.

What to Look for at Vehicle Auctions

Looking to buy a car? If the answer is yes, you may have seen advertisements for vehicle auctions. While many of these auctions are for dealers, some are open to the public. If you're thinking about heading out to bid on a car, make sure you know what to look for.

Car Auctions

    Car Auctions that are open to public bidding (meaning not restricted to participants with a dealer's license) take place for various reasons including bank repossessions, used car lot overstock or liquidation and police impound liquidation. Since many of these cars do not exhibit major damage, but were acquired by the process of repossession or impounding, some participants can buy perfectly working vehicles for less than what they would pay at a used car lot. In fact, the lure of the car auction comes from the "wholesale" price tag -- paying what the dealer pays to get the car. The assumption is when dealers buy a car at auction they buy it to put on their lot and sell it. This assumption is often wrong since dealers know to expect problems from any car bought at auction. Most reputable used car dealers employ or contract regular mechanics to diagnose each car they buy from auction and to repair any problems that might increase the value of the car. The individual will have a hard time finding these problems simply by having a look under the hood, but there are some easy ways to ensure you get a good buy.

VIN Numbers

    Check to make sure the vehicle has a Vehicle Identification Number. No VIN cars often pop up at police auctions. When a car shows up without a VIN number, it means the car has probably been stolen or major parts of the car have been replaced. Check the VIN on multiple spots on the car. You can look on the manufacturer's website to find out all the spots the VIN is located on any particular model car.

See the Vehicle

    EBay Motors is a rising star in the auto auction world, but there are problems even in the super convenient world of online auctions. Make sure the seller has no problem with you coming to see his vehicle in person before you buy. If there is any problem with seeing the car, do not bid.

Vehicle History Report

    When buying an automobile from an auction, the best friends you can have are a laptop or smartphone. These will enable you to run vehicle history reports (e.g. Carfax.com) on the cars you are looking at buying. To obtain a vehicle history report, simply record the VIN and feed it into the system. This provides a detailed history of the car and will enable you to see accounts of flood damage and other hard to see problems the car might have had in the past.

Chevy Cars That Get 30 MPG

Chevy Cars That Get 30 MPG

Gasoline prices determine the fuel efficiency demanded by new-car consumers, and buyers are on the lookout for vehicles that go the extra mile. A 30-mpg minimum is expected for an economy model, and Chevrolet advertises several models rolling off the 2011 line that boast at least 30 mpg on the highway.

Aveo5 and Aveo Sedan

    Both the Aveo5 and the Aveo Sedan are expected to get 35 mpg on the highway. They have 16-valve, 1.6-liter, inline four-cylinder engines with variable valve timing. The Aveo5 has 37.2 cubic feet of cargo room and the Sedan comes with 60/40-split folding rear seats for versatility of space.

HHR and HHR Panel

    The HHR and HHR Panel models claim 32 mpg on the highway. Their 155 horsepower, 2.2-liter four-cylinder engines have variable valve timing. \The HHR Panel has advantages of both a truck and van, with an 8-foot slide-out floor. Both models have an expected driving range of 512 miles.

Malibu LTZ

    The Malibu LTZ is expected to get 33 mpg highway and 528 miles on a tank of gasoline. This is an award-winning model has four-wheel independent suspension and many safety features, including OnStar. Its 3.6-liter V6 engine boasts 252 horsepower.

Equinox

    The Equinox is a five-passenger vehicle with a 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. It has lots of rear seat legroom and most popular safety and security features. This model is expected to get 32 mpg highway and up to 600 miles on a tank of gas.