Car Buying Guides: July 2016

Sunday, July 31, 2016

What Is the Difference Between the SE & LX Models in the Honda Accord?

The Honda Accord is well-known for being an affordable midsize sedan. The online edition of Car and Driver magazine notes that the Accord has placed on its "ten best" list 24 times. The LX is the least expensive of Accord sedans. Two steps up on the price list is the new "special edition" (SE) model, which is making its first appearance in the 2011 lineup. Notable differences between the two sedans include choice of transmissions and luxury trim features.

In its report about the SE model, Car and Driver notes a "fuel-economy bump for all Accord models...with no diminution in power." Accord automatic sedans recorded a combined city and highway increase of two miles per gallon leading to a blended rating of 27 miles per gallon. Car and Driver particularly attributes this improvement to "a taller fifth gear in all Accords." Taller gearing means a decrease in rotations per minute, and that can save fuel.

For those who prefer a stick shift, the Honda Accord LX may be the low-end model of choice. The more luxurious SE is only available with an automatic transmission. But Car and Driver says the automatic model gets better gas mileage.

The SE's luxuries include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats. Honda notes that a leather steering wheel insulates against temperature extremes.

In addition to heated front seats, the SE features a seating system that can be electronically adjusted 10 ways. This includes a power lumbar support for the lower back.

When comparing the LX and SE sedan models, it is necessary to consider the in-between model known as the LX Premium (LXP). The SE contains a number of LXP trim features such as illuminated automatic window switches and a security system.

How to Compare Compact Pickup Trucks

Prospective buyers of compact pickup trucks should consider a number of things when comparing one compact pickup against another. Compare their power and performance, including fuel economy and load limits; their cab configurations, interior dimensions and amenities; and their exterior size and style. The three major domestic compact pickups---Ford Ranger, Chevrolet/GMC Colorado/Canyon and Dodge Dakota---differ widely in size, engine offerings and cab options.

The 2010 Dodge Dakota is far larger than its competitors with its 131.3-inch wheelbase and 192.4-inch length. By contrast, the Ford Ranger sits on a 111.5-inch wheelbase and is 189.4 inches long. The Colorado and Canyon share the same 111.3-inch wheelbase and 192.4-inch length.

The 2010 Ranger is the only compact pickup that doesn't offer a four-door crew cab model. Ford's cab selection is limited to regular and extended cabs. The Canyon/Colorado and Dakota offer regular, extended and four-door crew cabs.

The base engine for the 2010 Ford Ranger is a 143-horsepower, 2.3-liter in-line four-cylinder. The Colorado and Canyon base engine is a 2.9-liter in-line four-cylinder that musters 185 horsepower. The Dakota's base engine is a 3.7-liter V6 that generates 210 horsepower.

By virtue of having the smallest engine, the Ranger rates an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway. The Canyon and Colorado earned EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 24 highway; while the Dakota, with its V6, rated an EPA estimated 15/20.

Saturday, July 30, 2016

How to Change a Salvage Title

Cars receive a salvage title from the local Department of Motor Vehicles when they have so much damage that the cost of repair outweighs the value of the vehicle. Salvage titles alert new buyers of serious damage in a car's history, but some auto owners may need to change a salvage title to a "clean" title after restoration. The process of changing a salvage title varies by state, so check in with your local DMV before taking action.

Instructions

Collect useful information on the vehicle, such as the car's VIN number and license plate number.Compile necessary paperwork such as the car's current salvage title, weight certificate, registration and smog certificate (if necessary in your state). Have your driver's license number and your Social Security number on hand.

Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles by phone. Local DMV phone numbers are listed in the phone book and on each individual DMV's official website. Find out if your local DMV requires a salvage certificate inspection. If so, make an appointment.

Attend the salvage certificate inspection on the date and time settled on by you and your local DMV.

Undergo any additional required inspections. These vary per state and may include brake and light inspections, weight certification and smog certification.

Fill out and turn in an "Application for Change of Title" or similar form offered by your DMV using your collection of vehicle and personal identification information.

Fill out and turn in any additional paperwork required by your local DMV.

Pay any fees associated with the cost of changing your car's title when you turn in your applications and paperwork at the DMV. Fees may include registration fee, highway patrol fee, county fees, weight fees, duplicate title fees and more. Most DMV offices accept cash, checks and debit or credit cards.

Receive your new car title, in most cases a "Rebuilt Salvage" title.

How to Check the All Wheel Drive on an Audi TT

From the 1980s when it conquered the rally circuit with the Audi Quattro, Audi has a fabled history of all-wheel drive cars. Audi's more recent batch of vehicles follow in this legacy, and many also boast advanced all-wheel drive systems. If you are getting your vehicle straight from the factory, then you can be sure it has been well tested. However, if you are buying second-hand, test to ensure the all-wheel drive system is functioning as it should.

Instructions

Slide a floor jack underneath the front of the car, after applying the parking brake. Raise the vehicle until both front wheels are slightly clear off the ground -- only a matter of inches, so it will not be hazardous if the vehicle rolls off the jack.

Enter the vehicle, close the door and start the engine. Now release the parking brake and place the transmission in first gear. Apply a tiny bit of power and if the all-wheel drive system of your Audi is working, then the car will attempt to move forward, propelled by the still-grounded rear wheels.

Set the parking brake and get out of the car after turning the engine off.

Remove the jack and place it under the rear of the car. Now, the rear wheels should be slightly aloft.

Repeat Step 2, except this time, if your Audi's all-wheel drive system is engaged, the car should creep forward via the front wheels, as the system is telling the car that is where the traction is this time.

Turn off the engine and set the parking brake. Remove the jack, safe in the knowledge, if it worked, that your Audi is in full-working order.

Audi A3 Sportback Vs. Golf V GT TDI

The Audi A3 Sportback and VW Golf GT TDI compete in Europe in the hatchback segment. Though North American enthusiasts can buy the Audi A3, VW does not import the GT TDI, which is the top of the line diesel Golf in Europe, with near GTI-liter performance. Though the two cars come from what is, in essence, the same company, they are quite different.

By far the biggest difference between the two hatchbacks is the motor that powers each of them. The Audi A3 comes with a variety of conventional gasoline motors. There is a turbocharged 1.4-liter with 123 horsepower and a 1.6-liter that produces 101-bhp at 5600 rpm and 109 lb-ft of torque at 3800 rpm. There is also a 3.2-liter 6-cylinder with 250-bhp.

The Golf GT TDI relies on a diesel engine with common rail fuel injection that displaces 2.0-liters. This engine puts out 168 bhp at 4200 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 1750 rpm.

Both the Golf and the A3 are available with either a 6-speed manual or a DSG semi-automatic gearbox that is shifted with paddles.

Both of these models are front wheel drive. The 1.4-liter and 1.6-liter A3 has 16.5-inch wheels at all four corners with 205/55-16 tires, but the 3.2 gets 17-inch wheels. The Audi is 101-inches long, 69.5-inches wide and weighs 2701 lbs. The 3.2-liter A3 gets Quattro all-wheel-drive.

The Golf uses 17-inch wheels with 225/45-17 tires. Its length is 165.5-inches and is 69.3-inches wide. The Golf weighs 2928-lbs.

Both of these models are five-door hatchbacks.

The Audi A3 with the 1.6 gets to 100-mph in 12.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 115 mph. The 3.2-liter model does 0-to-60 in 6.3 seconds. The Golf GT TDI does 0-to-100 in 8.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 135 mph.

Friday, July 29, 2016

How to Compare a Seven Seater SUV

Buying a car is a major purchase. SUVs are very popular but expensive, and are certainly a purchase you should carefully consider. Most SUVs can seat seven or eight people, but when you compare them you need to keep a few key pieces of information in mind, such as safety, gas mileage and legroom. With this in mind, comparing these SUVs follows along the same lines as comparing automobiles, and it can be done simply and easily but carefully.

Instructions

Find vehicles to compare. You can start by going to the major auto manufacturers websites such as GM, Ford, Toyota and Chrysler. You can look at their lines of vehicles and find what SUVs they offer that seat at least seven passengers. This will also give you information on standard and optional equipment.

Read reviews. After you have a list of seven-seater SUVs go to car review sites such as Edmunds.com and ConsumerAffairs.com to see what car reviewers found about the pros and cons of each SUV. Remember to pay special attention to things like cargo space and room, as you'll want to be able to comfortably fit seven people and any other luggage or groceries. Be sure to talk to friends and family as well to see if they have any experience with these cars. If you attend a church or belong to a community group, look for big families who might need a seven-seater car and find out their experiences.

Check the safety of the SUVs. Go to the insurance Institute's website (see Resources) and check each SUV for the safety rating. The Institute crashes automobiles to see how well they really do under different circumstances.

Consider trade-offs. There likely won't be a perfect SUV that gets good gas mileage, has all the options you want and is cheap. There's a saying that goes something like when considering anything you'll want good, fast and inexpensive, but you can only ever get two of the three. You may not be looking for a fast SUV, but you still won't likely be able to get everything you're looking for at a low price.

Test drive to compare. Test driving is a good way to get a feel for an automobile, but try to use it under real-world conditions--not just a quick spin around the block. Load up the SUV with a lot of people and drive it to someplace you normally go. Ask the dealer if you can drive it overnight. At the very least, try to imagine what the SUV will be like when it is full of people and stuff.

Differences Between 2005 Nissan Maxima Sl & SE

The 2005 Nissan Maxima is one of the entries of the car's sixth generation (2004 to 2008). Like other model years of this generation, the 2005 Maxima has two trims: the sporty SE and the luxury-oriented SL.

The SE and SL have 3.5-liter 265-horsepower V6 engines. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard in all 2005 Maximas, although there is a third trim--an "SE with 6MT"--that has a standard six-speed manual transmission.

Standard safety features on the 2005 Maxima SE and SL include power and child safety door locks, vehicle anti-theft system, ABS brakes and electronic brake assistance, traction control, keyless entry, and driver and passenger head and side airbags.

The 2005 SE and SL share standard interior features such as cruise control, separate driver/front passenger climate controls, leather tilt steering wheel and trip computer. But the SL has a standard CD changer and leather seats, features that symbolize its luxury orientation.

While the 2005 SE rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, the SL has 17-inch ones. The SL has HID lamps and heated side mirrors, features that are not standard in the SE.

The 2005 SE comes in silver, blue, black, red, smoke, brown and white. The SL version comes in all the aforementioned colors except for brown and white.

How to Find a VW Blush Convertible

Released in 2009, the Volkswagen Beetle Blush edition is special edition of the car. Designed with a red interior and white-gold exterior, the Beetle Blush contains a 2.5-liter engine capable of producing 150 horsepower. However, since the Blush was released as a limited edition car, finding a Blush will require that you contact Volkswagen dealerships and search online to find one. Unfortunately, you may not find a new car and may have to settle for a used model.

Instructions

Check car pricing reference sites to verify the estimated value of a new or used Volkswagen Blush. Having an estimated value of the car will help ensure that you are not overpaying for the car, regardless if the car is new or used. Kelley Blue Book at Kbb.com is a good place to start.

Search online car directories for the car. Online car directories allow you to narrow your search for a car, plus by looking at an online directory, you may find information on dealerships or private owners who are looking to sell a Volkswagen Blush in your area.

Choose to contact a vendor from the directory results. These directories provide you with a list of phone numbers and address closest to your area. Call or visit the sellers listed. If no known matches are found, expand your search and call the closest number.

Visit the dealership or private owner. Before you decide to purchase the car, inspect the car for yourself. Check for any visible marks, damages to the interior and mileage and maintenance issues the car has had. Take the car for a test drive to ensure it drives properly.

How to Buy a Used Car the Easy Way

Take these steps to ensure a positive car buying experience.

Instructions

Test drive the car. Driving the car in neighborhoods helps in determining the turning radius and the ease of stopping and accelerating. Driving on the highway allows you to determine the feel for commuting, long distance travels, and overall performance on highways (i.e. higher speed). Check the alignment, brakes, and suspension.

Determine the Kelley Blue Book value: http://www.kbb.com/.

Ask for the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Obtain a CARFAX Vehicle History Report using the VIN. The report tells you the accident/frame damage check; title problems including salvage, junk or flood, number of owners, service records, odometer readings, and more. The odometer readings will indicate if a mileage rollback has occurred. Many other vehicle history report companies exist, just make sure to find and stick with one to try and obtain a "package price" for researching multiple vehicles.

Take the vehicle to a mechanic. Most mechanics charge $60- $100 to check out a car. The mechanic will tell you if your vehicle will pass inspection for your particular state. For more information about inspections from state-to-state, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_inspection_in_the_United_States. Finally, the mechanic needs to give you a final word of advice, meaning a yes or no answer for a safe vehicle purchase.

Check everything. For most salesmen, errors on a car are on a "need to know" basis. This means that you will have to look and find any problems with the car. Close and open all the doors, check the locks and windows, look for cosmetic damages, determine tire tread level, evaluate the motor, etc. A tire tread trick is to place a penny facing you with Lincoln's head in the tread. If his head disappears, the tires still have life.

Utilize online resources. Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and eBay Motors are all great options. Notice the websites given have vehicle reviews rather than only car listings such as Autotrader and Craigslist. Autotrader and Craiglist are great options for car purchases but may not help with your vehicle research.

Purchase the car. Make sure a bill of sale is issued. A bill of sale needs to include the following: the buyer's name and address, the seller's name and address, date and signature of seller, date and signature of buyer, warranty information (as- is vs. 1 year warranty), payment information (cash vs. monthly payments), and vehicle description. The vehicle description should include the year, make, color, model description, body style, number of cylinders, VIN number, state title number, and odometer reading,

Obtain the vehicle's title. If you are buying a new or used car from a dealership, the title transfer will typically be taken care of for you. If you are buying from a private party, the following website will help you find information for registering your vehicle: http://www.dmv.org/ The bill of sale will be used to determine the amount of sales tax.

Enjoy your vehicle!

List of Public Auto Auctions in Colorado

Colorado has several public auto auctions for individuals in need of a vehicle. At a Colorado public auto auction, inexpensive vehicles can be purchased through a bidding process rather than negotiating with a sales person. Vehicles are available for inspection prior to the sale and interested buyers can find out any vehicle problems during the inspection period. Buyers should be prepared to pay for the vehicle at the auction.

Pacific Auction holds a public auto auction in Denver every Saturday. The auction starts at 10 a.m. Individuals interested in buying a vehicle at this auction can attend the preview all day Friday or prior to the sale on Saturday. The auction company accepts checks and credit cards for a fee. All other forms of payment, including cash, money order or letter of credit can be used. Buyers are given a temporary permit unless the car is listed as a tow-away only.

Pacific Auction Companies

5450 Dahlia St.

Commerce City, CO 80022

303-287-0691

pacificauction.com

J&M Auction, located in Denver, has a bi-monthly public auto auction. Their preview day is the Friday before the auction and problems or issues with the vehicle are noted on the auto. Fees are added to the final bid. All bidders have to be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid ID. Vehicles have to be paid for on auction day and they accept most forms of payment with some restrictions for personal checks.

J&M Auction, Inc.

5900 N. Federal Blvd.

Denver, CO 80221

720-855-3132

jmauctioninc.com

Pyramid has three ongoing auctions in Pueblo, Loveland and Fountain. All auctions start at 11 a.m. The Fountain auction occurs monthly on the first and third Saturday and the Pueblo auction is held monthly on the second Saturday. The Loveland auction is more infrequent, taking place only in selected months. On sale day, buyers pay at least 20 percent of the final bid price. Vehicles that will require emissions are sold as a tow-away with no temporary permit issued.

Pyramid Motors

905 S. Santa Fe

Fountain, CO 80817

719-382-5151

pyramidautoauction.com

Thursday, July 28, 2016

How to Check a Second Hand Car

Buying a second-hand or used car makes good financial sense -- if you are careful. You save money on insurance, and used cars cost far less than new ones. However, you need to check some basics on a second-hand car before you decide whether it is a good idea to buy it. Most you can check yourself. But if you have a car-savvy or mechanic friend, ask him to look at the car with you.

Instructions

Request a copy of the car's history report from Carfax or some other reliable source. Check for any past accidents; even minor fender-benders can do lasting damage to your potential second-hand car.

Check the mileage. Your car history report should tell you whether the mileage numbers you see have been tampered with. Even if the mileage indicator is accurate, do not buy a car with over 250,000 miles on it -- it won't last much longer.

Examine the interior and exterior closely. Look for rust, fresh drips on the pavement below, a moldy or musty smell in the interior, and any signs of more serious damage not included in the car history report. Any of these could be an indicator of a serious problem you cannot afford to fix.

Have someone else look at the car. If you have a favorite mechanic or friend who knows about cars, try to arrange for him to come with you to look at second-hand cars. He may be able to spot potential problems that you won't notice. Even if you need to pay a small fee to have a mechanic check the car, it's money well spent if you can avoid major car repairs later.

Always test-drive the car in town and out on the highway, if you can. A car may work well at city street speeds but pull to the left at 60 miles per hour. Make sure the brakes work without hesitation, "mushiness" or funny sounds, the transmission is shifting smoothly and the air conditioner/heating system works well. Listen carefully for unusual sounds coming from the engine.

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Nissan Nismo Specifications

Nissan began in 1933 in Japan. The company manufactures automobiles from trucks, SUVs, cars to sports cars, including the high performance Nissan Nismo 370Z. It comes with a navigation system, three gauges on the dashboard and an illuminated interior. When you are considering a Nissan Nismo 370Z review the specifications.

The Nissan Nismo 370Z features a 3.7-liter 24-valve aluminum engine that generates 392 horsepower at 7,000 revolutions per minute and 270 ft.-lb. at 5,200 revolutions per minute. The vehicle comes with six-speed manual transmission with an option of a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The Nismo 370Z comes with power steering that is sensitive to speed. The automobile has a two-link front and a four-link aluminum alloy suspension. The front suspension has a sub frame made from aluminum. The suspension offers an increased dampening, spring and stabilizer rates.

Nissan manufactures the Nismo 370Z with four-wheel anti-lock brakes. The vehicle features vented 12.6-by-1.1-inch front discs and 12.6-by-0.63-inch back discs.

The performance vehicle sports 18-by-8-inch front tires and 18-by-9-inch rear tires with 18-inch aluminum-alloy rims. The vehicle comes standard with front 225/50WR18 tires and rear 245/45WR18 tires. The manufacture offers as an option the high-performance Yokohama ADVAN Sport front 225/50WR18 and rear 245/45WR18 tires.

The Nismo 370Z comes with an aerodynamic body style that sports a heated outside mirrors, dual exhaust outlets and a back spoiler. It features LED taillights, xenon headlights and a side marker with an illuminated Z.

The interior comes with a push button ignition, automatic temperature control and power windows. It has two 12-volt outlets, lockable glove compartment and a gauge cluster with a digital clock, voltmeter and oil temperature.

Reasons to Buy a New Car

When you are in the market for a car, it can be difficult to decide whether to buy a new or used vehicle. Both types have their advantages. The correct decision depends on your personal needs and circumstances. There are many reasons to buy a new car. Consider them and compare them to what need most when you purchase a vehicle. You may discover that a new car is the right choice for you.

When you buy a new car, you can order it from the factory and customize it with your own options. This is especially helpful if you want unusual options or an odd color. You will have to wait several weeks for your car, but when it arrives it will be exactly what you want. If you buy a used vehicle, you are limited to the options that are already on the vehicle. You may be able to make some aftermarket additions, but they will cost extra.

When you buy a new car, you know you are the first owner. You don't have to worry about whether the vehicle was maintained by a previous owner. In most circumstances, you can expect a new car to run well and be reliable. If an issue does crop up, it will be covered under the manufacturer's warranty. If it cannot be fixed in a reasonable amount of time, you are protected by lemon laws in all 50 states. Although the laws vary by state, you are usually entitled to a replacement vehicle.

Most new car manufacturers offer full warranty coverage on new vehicles for up to five years, depending on the make and model. They also give powertrain coverage for up to 10 years. When you buy a used vehicle, it may be past the warranty period. You can buy a certified used car, but it will typically cost more than a non-certified model. With new cars, the coverage is included at no extra cost. Many manufacturers also provide roadside assistance along with the warranty coverage.

Although new cars depreciate dramatically the moment you leave the dealer's lot, a new car will have a higher resale or trade-in value than a used vehicle kept for the same length of time. For example, if you purchase a brand new car rather than a three-year-old vehicle and decide to sell it after owning it for two years, it will be worth more. It will only be two years old rather than five, so it will have a higher value.

If you view your car as a status symbol, a new car will give you more status than a used one. Owning a new car is exciting. It has the famous "new car smell" and is equipped with the latest gadgets and safety equipment. It will give you more bragging rights than buying a previously owned vehicle.

Toyota Tundra Body Styles

The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that comes in three basic body styles: regular cab, double cab and CrewMax. All three versions of the truck come with a rear chrome bumper and a chrome grille. Toyota offers nine different color options for the Tundra, which can be purchased with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.

The 2011 Toyota Tundra standard four-by-two regular cab comes with a 4.0-liter 24-valve V6 engine that generates 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The regular cab body is 75.8 inches high, 79.9 inches wide and 209.8 inches long with a wheelbase of 126.8 inches. The regular cab bed is 78.7 inches long, 22.2 inches high and 66.4 inches wide. The vehicle has a ground clearance of 10.2 inches, a curb weight of 4,580 pounds, a gross vehicle weight rating of 6,200 pounds, a maximum payload of 1,620 pounds and a 4,900-pound towing capacity.

The 2011 Tundra Double Cab comes with a 5.7-liter 32-Valve I-Force V-8 engine that generates 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 401 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,600 rpm. The double cab measures 76.2 inches high, 79.9 inches wide and 228.7 inches long with a wheelbase of 145.7 inches. The bed of the double cab is 78.7 inches long, 66.4 inches wide and 22.2 inches wide. The truck features a 10.4-inch ground clearance, a 7,800-pound towing capacity, a 1,640-pound maximum payload, a 5,460-pound curb weight and a gross vehicle weight rating of 7,100 pounds.

The 2011 Tundra CrewMax has a 4.0-liter V-6 engine that produces 270 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 278 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The four-by-two CrewMax is 75.6 inches high, 79.9 inches wide, and 228.7 inches long with a 145.7-inch wheelbase. The CrewMax bed is 66.7 inches in length, 22.2 inches in height and 66.4 inches wide. The ground clearance is 10 inches. The Tundra CrewMax has a 8,100 pound towing capacity, a 1,550 pound maximum payload, a 6,800 pound gross vehicle weight rating and a curb weight of 5,250 pounds.

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

How to Calculate Gearbox Torque

Your gearbox produces a greater torque than that which enters it. The crankshaft's flywheel, which the engine's cylinders rotate, applies a torque to the gearbox's primary gear. The gear then turns a smaller counterpart with fewer teeth, rotating it with a greater speed. The car's drive shafts then carry this increased torque from the transmission to the rotors of the wheels, giving them enough force to drive the vehicle forward.

Instructions

Multiply the force applied to the box's first gear by the first gear's radius. If, for instance, 2,500 Newtons act on a gear whose radius measures 0.5 meters: 2,500 x 0.5 = 1,250 Newton meters.

Divide the radius of the first gear by that of the second. If the second gear's radius measures 0.1 meters: 0.5 / 0.1 = 5. The gearbox's torque ratio is 5:1, and its torque multiplication factor is 5.

Multiply the last two steps' answers: 1,250 x 5 = 6,250 Newton meters. This is the gearbox's torque.

Saturday, July 23, 2016

How to Buy a Car Secondhand in Ireland

Buying a used car in Ireland can be done in one of three ways: through a dealer, through a private seller or by auction. Advertisements can be seen online through car sales websites, in newspapers or on dealer lots. Documentation that should be provided with the car are the registration documents, a National Car Test (NCT) certification (cert) for cars over four years old and registered before January 1980 and a motor tax certificate. Sellers should complete a change of ownership form at the time of sale.

Instructions

Choose which route to take to buy the used car. In Ireland, secondhand cars can be bought from private sellers or from dealers. Private sellers are generally cheaper but buying from car dealerships is safer as any defects with the car not pointed out at the time of sale can be rectified through the dealer during their warranty period. Private buyers are not covered by consumer laws to the same extent as people who buy from a dealer. Another route is buying via auction, but in this case there is little legal protection if you buy a lemon.

Choose a budget. Impulse buys can be costly. Take into account maintenance costs of a particular model. Tires and other regular outlays vary from car to car. Also consider fuel costs. A Sports Utility Vehicle with a large engine may cost much more day-to-day in fuel than a smaller car.

Use online car websites such as Autotrader to compare car prices and use this to judge whether a car is overpriced. Cheap cars may have defects, damage or high mileage that the seller has taken into account so before visiting the seller or dealer, ask about defects or mileage. This could save you a trip.

Visit the seller to see the car. Check for damage and mileage. Check that all electrical components are working, along with wipers, windows, defoggers, radio and air conditioning, if present. Different shades of paint on the bodywork could have been used to conceal previous damage. Check for rust. Open the hood and look to see if the engine compartment is clean, which indicates the car has been taken care of. Check the oil dipstick to see if there is enough oil and the oil is clean. Look under the engine to see if any oil leaks are present. Take the car for a test-drive. Before starting the engine, check if the engine is warm. Sometimes cars are "warmed up" so they will start the first time for potential buyers. Bring a mechanic or mechanically minded friend with you to inspect the car if you are not comfortable doing it yourself.

Check that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the engine compartment matches the registration documents the seller provides. Look at the NCT expiry, or expiration, date. Every car in Ireland more than four years old and registered after January 1980 needs an NCT to be driven on the road legally. Cars without an NCT may be unfit for road use. Cars must undergo an NCT every two years at least so the further into the future the NCT expiration date the better. Check for the same with the road tax. Road tax is payable every year on cars in Ireland so one on which this tax is not due for several months will save you money.

Use any defects such as scratches to haggle down the price. Both private sellers and dealers are usually amenable to haggling. Ask the dealer what type of warranty he offers and what, exactly, it covers.

Ask the seller to give you the registration documents for the car. For cars last sold after 2004, this will be a single Vehicle Registration Certification. For cars last sold between 1993 and 2004, there will be both a Vehicle Registration Certification and a Vehicle Licensing Certification. For older cars, there is a Logbook.

Fill in a change of ownership form. For pre-1993 cars, this will be an RF200 form. The seller should send this, along with the logbook, to their local motor tax office. For newer cars, the seller should send the Vehicle Licensing Certification or the Registration Certification with the appropriate section filled in, to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Computer Services Division in Shannon, County Clare. Car dealers also require form RF105 for change of ownership. The updated certification will then be mailed to your address.

Choose a method of payment. Dealers may offer finance deals, or trade-ins of your old car, to offset the price of the new buy. Checks may not be accepted by private sellers, but be careful when paying in cash. Always get a receipt. A bank draft may be acceptable to private sellers in lieu of a check. Get a written statement signed by the seller that the mileage on the car is genuine. If it's determined the odometer was altered, this will help you get your money back. Ask for both sets of keys, if the seller has them. Be sure you have insurance before driving the car.

Friday, July 22, 2016

Specs of a 2007 Charger Super Bee

The 2007 Dodge Charger SRT-8 Super Bee is a modern American muscle car that might be most notable for its eye-catching exterior. The car is available in Detonator Yellow and comes with a black hood as well as a black deck-lid face.

The 2007 Dodge Charger SRT-8 Super Bee features a cast-iron HEMI V-8 engine reaching 425 horsepower. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 5 seconds. Its top speed is 165 miles per hour. The transmission in the car is a five-speed automatic.

The Super Bee is 200 inches long, 74 inches wide and 58 inches tall. It has a wheelbase of 120 inches and weighs 4,168 lb. Five-spoke 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with a chrome finish are standard.

The interior features yellow stitching on the seats, shift knob and steering wheel. It also comes with power-adjusted sport seats, a Kicker audio system, DVD navigation, automatic temperature control and air bags.

Thursday, July 21, 2016

How to Compare a Crossover SUV

Crossover SUVs are the latest breed of utility vehicles that are a cross between a minivan and a sport utility vehicle. These vehicles are sometimes referred to as CUVs or XUVs in consumer reviews. Crossover SUVs are great family vehicles that have the added benefit of being able to go off-road. They offer seating for five to seven passengers.

Instructions

The first step in comparing Crossover SUVs is to narrow your search to your favorite car manufacturers. You will find that not all automakers offer Crossover SUVs so you can further narrow your selection in the next step.

Pick the first car manufacturer on your list and go to the company's official website. Look at all of the makes and models the automaker offers and determine if a Crossover SUV is one of them. Do this for each of the car manufacturers on your list so you will have a starting point to compare Crossover SUVs.

Look carefully online at each Crossover SUV and make a note of each feature and benefit of the vehicles on a separate piece of paper. You will want to write down key features such as price, number of passengers the Crossover can hold, how many cup holders, the type of stereo/CD player, whether or not there is a DVD player or media center, what colors the vehicle is offered in, the horsepower, gas mileage, storage space and whether or not there is a luggage rack.

You can eliminate the Crossover SUVs from your list that do not have the features you really want or need.

For the remaining Crossover SUVs on your list, you will need to go to the car dealerships where they are offered and do a test drive. Before making a purchase decision, you need to know if you like driving the car.

The last step is to check out consumer reviews and crash test ratings. You can then make an educated decision on which Crossover SUV to buy.

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Returning a Used Car to a Dealership

A car is one of the largest purchases many people will make in their lifetimes. Even with thorough research and test drives, you can still end up with a bad deal and buyer's remorse. Fortunately, you may have the right to return the vehicle for a full or partial refund, depending on your circumstances. Research your state's lemon laws, and read your contract carefully to determine what your options are.

Instructions

Research the lemon laws for your state. Lemon laws protect consumers when the cars they have purchased do not meet certain standards. These laws vary by state. The standards established by these laws are implied warranties, or an unwritten promise between the dealer and the buyer.

Review the Buyers Guide for the vehicle you purchased. The contract or paperwork packet should include a copy of the Buyers Guide, which is required by the Federal Trade Commission to be presented with each used car sold by a dealership. The Buyers Guide indicates the warranty coverage for the vehicle. The dealer can choose to specify in the Buyers Guide that a vehicle is sold "as is" or "with all faults," which will negate the implied warranties granted by your state's laws.

Review the dealership's return policy. This should also be found in the purchase contract. Make sure your situation meets the stipulations outlined here.

Check the car and make sure it is still in its original condition. Scratches, dents and visible wear since the purchase will likely void the warranty or return policy.

Make copies of all the paperwork from the original sale and take photos of the vehicle, including any of the issues that may have prompted you to return it.

Contact the dealer and make an appointment to bring the car back. Calmly explain why you wish to return the vehicle. The dealer will likely inspect the vehicle to make sure it meets the qualifications for return.

When you've agreed to the terms, carefully read and sign the cancellation paperwork.

2008 Honda CRV Specs

A comfortable runabout vehicle, or CR-V, the 2008 Honda CR-V is a compact sports utility vehicle that went on the market in the mid 1990s. Larger than a compact car and not as big as most SUVs, the Honda CR-V is nonetheless classified as an SUV, and boasts good fuel efficiency with 73 cubic feet of space in its interior. According to Edmonds.com, the Honda CR-V is the best-selling SUV in America.

The body of a 2008 Honda CR-V is available in LX, EX and EX-L trim levels. Choose from colors such as Borrego Beige Metallic, Green Tea Metallic, Nighthawk Black Pearl, Royal Blue Pearl, Taffeta White, Tango Red Pearl or Whistler Silver Metallic. Other features include a light-weight, one-piece tailgate, multi-reflector halogen headlights and folding power side mirrors.

Built into the 2008 Honda CR-V are high-rigidity melt sheets and noise-absorption materials in the floor, side panels, ceiling and instrument panel. There is also insulation backing on the carpet and insulation on the front fenders and cowl for noise, vibration and harshness reduction. With the rear seats folded, the CR-V can hold 73 cubic feet of cargo.

According to Honda, the 2008 CR-V has a 2.4-liter, dual-overhead camshaft (DOHC), i-VTEC four-cylinder engine designed to meet the CR-V's goals for fuel mileage and lower emissions. It has a five-speed automatic transmission, a Drive-by-Wire throttle system and fast-responding electronics that take the place of a traditional throttle cable, and that produce greater response, fuel economy and driveability with minimum adjustment and maintenance. Edmunds.com reports that the front-wheel-drive 2008 CR-V gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The 2008 Honda CR-V is equipped with three-point seat belts with pretensioners, active front head restraints and an anti-lock braking system. A backup camera is only available on EX-L models with the navigation system installed. All 2008 CR-V models come with side-curtain airbags, a a rollover sensor and vehicle stability assist, which, according to Honda, is a safety device that aids the driver in retaining control of the vehicle if wheel slippage is detected. The Honda CR-V was given the highest evaluation score, "G" (good), by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), and earned five stars for front and side crash protection.

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

How to Compare Vehicle Ratings

Cars can cost a lot of money. Instead of buying the first car you see, it's a better idea to compare the vehicle ratings of the cars you like the best. This way, you will find out how much the car is worth and how good the gas mileage is. With this information, you will have a much easier time buying a new or used car, and you're likely to save money in the process.

Instructions

Navigate to the vehicle rating website, Kelley Blue Book (see website address in Resources section of this article). You can compare up to four cars at once on Kelley Blue Book.

Enter your zip code. Vehicle ratings, such as resale value and mileage ratings, can vary based on where you live.

Fill out the first car's information in the form under "Research & Explore." Choose whether the car is used or new. You'll need to know the make, model, year it was manufactured and the trim, depending on the model. Trim refers to the various aspects of the car, such as sedan, coupe, two-door or four-door. Click "Compare" when you're done.

Fill out the same form with the information for the second car. Click "Compare" when you're finished.

Click "Compare" at the bottom of the list of vehicles you entered. This will bring you to a screen where you can compare such aspects as suggested retail value, gas mileage and vehicle rating.

How Do I Have a Dealer Locate a Car From a Different Dealer?

If a dealership does not have a vehicle that you want, you can ask if they can do a "dealer locate," or purchase the vehicle from another dealer to sell to you. This is common practice with new car dealers, and the option is usually offered to the buyer if the dealer locate is possible. It is very uncommon that a dealer can locate a used car from another dealer--although large auto groups may be able to accomplish this. Find the vehicle you want and work with a dealer that you prefer.

Instructions

Know the car you want to buy and where to buy it. Research the vehicle at the manufacturer's website. If there is a vehicle that you are interested in, use the manufacturer's website tools to build a virtual model, choosing your options, packages and color combinations.

Take a printout of the virtual model to the dealership. If you already know which car you want, just visit the dealership while it is open or call to make an appointment. Test drive your vehicle before deciding on the dealer locate.

Ask the representative to find you a car to drive that is as close to the one that you want to purchase, and show her the printout. Have all features explained to you before the test drive and ask what the differences are between the car you want and the car you're driving. Drive the vehicle and make sure it is to your satisfaction.

Ask the dealer representative if he can get the car you want. You may find out that one is coming in from the factory in the near future. If the representative assures you he can get the vehicle, proceed with the paperwork. It is imperative that you discuss your time-frame before agreeing to anything since a dealer locate can take weeks, if not a few days.

Ask the dealer representative about distance. Ask her how far she will be going to get the located vehicle. Inspect mileage on the odometer, as someone most likely had to drive to get it. Find out how many miles are already on the vehicle. Someone from the dealer will have to call. Let the representative know that you are ready to make the deal and will leave a deposit until the vehicle arrives.

Give a deposit to the dealer. For a locate, this amount is usually in the thousands. Keep in mind that the dealer will most likely have to swap one of his own cars out or pay outright--the dealer cost--because you intend to buy the vehicle.

Wait for your vehicle to arrive. Once the vehicle has been picked up, your representative will schedule an appointment for you to come in to see the vehicle and complete any necessary loan or Department of Motor Vehicles paperwork.

Monday, July 18, 2016

Chevy Astro Van Transmission Problems

The Astro minivan is a midsize van that the Chevrolet division of General Motors produced from 1985 to 2005. The vehicle's last decade of production has some transmission problems.

The most common problem with later-model Chevy Astro transmissions is failure of the valve body, which is the central component of the automatic transmission. Less common problems are the failures of the transmission's fluid pressure (TFP) switch, failure of the transmission's "reaction sun shell" and failure of the transfer case shift motor.

The 1998 and 1999 Chevy Astros are the Astros most severely afflicted by transmission troubles, as the failures of the transmission valve body, the TFP switch and the reaction sun shell are common problems with these vehicles. The 1995, 1996 and 1997 Astros' transmission woes are mostly restricted to valve body malfunctions. The all-wheel drive versions of the 2000 to 2003 Astro have only a faulty transfer case shift motor to worry about.

As of September 2010, the estimated costs to repair the transmission problems of the Chevy Astro were as follows: $596 to replace the transmission valve body, $155 to replace the TFP switch, $921 to replace the reaction sun shell and $549 to replace the transfer case shift motor.

Sunday, July 17, 2016

What's the Difference Between a Salvage Title & a Rebuilt Title?

The title is one of the most important pieces of paperwork associated with vehicles of any kind. However, when a titled vehicle is involved in an accident that drastically affects its operation or appearance, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will often stamp the title with specific descriptions, such as damaged, junked or lemon. A salvaged or rebuilt designation on a title is a serious thing, and it is important to understand why the vehicle was designated as such.

A vehicle that has been involved in an accident, a flood or a fire or that has been stolen can be classified under a salvage title. These occurrences often do enough damage to the vehicle that the insurance company decides it will cost more to fix it than replace it. The insurance company will usually sell the vehicle "as is" to a salvage and wreckage yard. Mechanics can sometimes purchase these vehicles and rebuild them until they are functioning properly.

The DMV issues a rebuilt title to a vehicle that has previously been designated a salvage title but has been restored to good working order. The definition and laws regarding a rebuilt title can be different depending on state-specific regulations. In general, the complete rebuilding process must be documented with an affidavit and the vehicle must be inspected at a state-certified facility, before it can be issued a license plate and driven legally.

The difference between a salvage title and a rebuilt title is whether or not a salvaged vehicle has been repaired by a mechanic to the point that the DMV will allow you to drive it legally on the road. A title will generally not be deemed rebuilt without it first having been salvaged. A vehicle with a salvage designation on the title will not be issued a valid license plate, and you cannot drive it.

The DMV does not change the status of a vehicle's title without reason. It is important to know what was wrong with the vehicle when it was salvaged, what was done to repair it and whether it has passed all inspections required by the state it will be registered and insured in. Inform insurance providers of the status of the title, because not all insurance policies or carriers will cover a vehicle with a rebuilt designation.

How to Buy a Used Car in Japan

According to "Japan Today," the Japanese tend to buy new cars after five to seven years. As such, it is easy to find relatively new cars at discounted prices. However, if you aren't a native, buying a used car can be a bit more of a hassle than buying new, especially if you don't know where to look or what to expect. Fortunately, there are several ways to make finding and buying a used car much easier, and you will maximize your value in the process.

Instructions

Determine what kind of car is right for you. Consider the spatial limitations of living in Japan. Make sure you will have a parking space. Keep in mind that you will have to pay a weight tax, so you may want to opt for something compact rather than something with extra room.

Find a dealer. Although it is possible to buy from individuals, there are several reasons to avoid doing so. Not only will you have to fill out and submit your own paperwork, but you also won't get a warranty, and you probably won't get as good a deal as you would from a dealer. According to "Japan Window," the dealers with the best prices are often located near U.S. military bases.

Shop around. Go to at least three dealers before you decide to buy. You want to make sure you are getting the best deal. As "Japan Window" notes, the price of a car can vary considerably depending on where it is located in Japan. William Bonds of "Japan Today" also suggests inspecting a car's maintenance history because the particularly meticulous nature of Japanese service records can serve as a good indicator of the car's quality.

When you have decided on a car, you will have to pay various fees, including a mandatory maintenance fee called Sha'ken. This fee must be paid every two years for used cars, and it can cost anywhere from 120,000 - 160,000 yen for a small car. You will also have to pay an acquisition tax and a weight tax upon purchase, and you will have to pay an annual tax every May. Finally, you will have to buy insurance. There are two types of insurance: mandatory (Kyosei Hoken), which only covers the car, and optional (Jibaiseki Hoken), which covers injuries, damage, theft, and vandalism.

Either you or the dealer will have to go to the Inspection Registration Office (Kensa Toroku Jimusho) to submit the re-registration (Meigi Henkou) and owner's cancellation (Massho Toroku) papers. The dealer will often take care of submitting all of this paperwork, as well as submitting the fees to the proper offices.

Saturday, July 16, 2016

How to Compare Used Trucks

When you're ready to purchase a vehicle, buying a used model may make more financial sense than getting a new one. You can lower your purchase price as well as your insurance and tax costs. As you begin your search for a used truck, there are several factors to consider while you compare models.

Review the results of crash tests performed on the trucks you are considering. The federal Safer Car website allows you to search vehicle test results dating back to 1990s models. The nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also offers data on vehicles from that decade.

The U.S. Department of Energy provides city and highway fuel mileage data for trucks dating back to 1984. Use the "Compare Side-By-Side" tool to see how various models stack up.

The nonprofit Consumer's Union's "Consumer Reports" magazine offers lists of the best and worst used cars to its subscribers. The organization's website also provides reliability ratings that cover 17 potential trouble areas over 10 model years.

If you've narrowed your search to a few makes and models, search Internet listings for your city and nearby towns to see the trucks available and how their prices and mileage compare. In addition to national used-car websites, visit those of local car dealerships. Don't forget to check local online and print classifieds, too.

While you probably won't get any guarantees when buying a vehicle from a private seller, some local dealerships may offer warranty coverage on used trucks.

How to Find a Used Truck

If you're in the market for a truck, buying one used can save hundreds or thousands of dollars over buying a new truck. When buying a used truck it is critical to find a reliable seller or dealer and perform a background check on the truck. A few simple steps can help you in your quest to find the perfect used truck quickly.

Instructions

Pick up your local "Auto Trader" or visit autotrader.com. The "Auto Trader" lists thousands of new, used and certified cars and trucks in its print and online publications. Private sellers and dealers alike advertise in the "Auto Trader," and looking through it can help you find the perfect used truck.

Visit used car dealerships. Travel to your local auto park or town car dealerships and visit the used car and truck dealerships. Many new car dealerships also sell a limited supply of used cars or can put you in contact with a sales person who has the truck you seek.

Use websites such as Craigslist.org to get in touch with local car and truck sellers. Craigslist allows you to search for people who are selling used goods in the city of your choice. Many times dealing with private sellers such as those found from Craigslist can save you hundreds of dollars because they are more willing to negotiate with the price than a dealership is.

Fun Facts About the Ford Escape

The Ford Escape compact sport utility vehicle comes with three power options: the standard Duratec 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine; the Duratec 3-liter V-6 flex-fuel version, which uses 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline; or the Atkinson-cycle 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor for the hybrid version. The 2011 hybrid Ford Escape was the most fuel-efficient SUV sold in North America and featured eco-friendly features to keep fuel costs and emissions low.

SUV buyers wanting the best bang for the buck may want to opt for the front-wheel drive hybrid version of the Ford Escape. It earned 34 mpg in city driving and 31 on the highway for a combined mpg of 32. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (www.fueleconomy.gov), it cost the average driver of a 2011 hybrid Escape $2.85 to drive 25 miles using 0.78 gallons of fuel based on fuel costing $3.65 per gallon and spending 45 percent of driving time on the highway and 55 percent in the city. In 2011, it cost the hybrid Escape owner $49.60 to fill up the 15.1-gallon tank to achieve a maximum distance of 435 miles. The annual fuel cost of driving a hybrid Ford Escape in 2011 was $1,714. Cost to drive the four-wheel drive version of the hybrid was slightly higher in 2011, costing $3.15 to drive 25 miles using 0.86 gallons of fuel. The range of the four-wheel drive model was 394 miles on a full tank. In 2006, Ford offered the Ford Escape with flex-fuel capability. Flex-Fuel uses 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline to power its engine.

The Ford Motor Company was the first automaker to offer a sport utility vehicle as a hybrid. Ford engineers designed the hybrid Escape to travel up to 44 mph while using only the electric motor to power the vehicle. The hybrid Escape used no gasoline in 2011 while stopped in traffic. The electric motor is a nickel-plated hydride battery, identified as NiMH, and sealed and placed under the floor of the rear cargo area. The seats in the standard 2011 Escape XLT and in the hybrid version featured recycled polyester fibers and polyurethane foam made from plant seed oils.

The 2004 hybrid Ford Escape set a driving record in Manhattan by driving 37 consecutive hours and 576 miles on one of tank of gasoline. San Francisco used 2005 model year hybrid Escapes for its taxi fleet, becoming the first city in the United States to use the Escape hybrids as taxis. New York City in 2011 had 1,400 hybrid Escape taxis in service.

A new concept among hybrid vehicles is regenerative braking. Conventional gasoline-powered vehicles have brakes that generate energy when stopping the vehicle, but that energy is lost. The 2011 hybrid Ford Escape featured regenerative braking that captured the energy as the brakes stop the vehicle and sends the energy to the battery pack for storage and later use. Applying the brakes recharges the battery pack.

Differences in Camaro Engines

True to its roots as the every-man's pride and joy, the newest generation of Camaros come with a variety of engines and transmissions to suit every need and desire. From street-cruiser cool to super-car fast, modern Camaros carry on the proud tradition of both economy car and racer, depending on the trim level specified.

Though the six-cylinder models of yore were little more than cruisers with barely adequate power, the 3.6L V6 is fully competitive with V8s of less than 10 years ago. Producing 304 horsepower at 5,900 RPM and 273 ft. lbs. of torque at 5,200, this direct injection wonder nearly matches number for number the output of a 1998 Ford SVT Cobra's 4.6L V8.

The V6 is Camaro's base-model engine and does indeed get good gas mileage (17 city/29 highway), but also smoke the rear tires with nearly as much enthusiasm as either of the two V8s. with a 6.0 second 0-60 time and running the quarter mile in 14.3, this motor is a long way from the old man's 140 hp straight six.

The Camaro SS comes with a choice of two 6.2L V8s. The first "base" model V8 is an all aluminum LS3 engine based on the 2008 Corvette's. This engine has a special composite material, acoustically tuned intake for maximum pulse super-charging, as well as a true dual exhaust system and a slightly more aggressive camshaft than that found in the Corvette.

The two engines are rated at 400 horsepower and 410 ft. lbs of torque for the base L99 engine, and the uprated LS3 version has 426 hp and 420 ft lbs. The only real differences between the two boils down to cylinder head flow and computer tuning. It's worth noting that the Camaro's LS3 has a slightly lower compression ratio than the Corvette's (10.4:1 vs 10.7:1), which accounts for the difference in power between the two.

The next generation of Camaros set to bow in 2011 will include a Z28 version, which will be packing a de-tuned version of the current Corvette's supercharged LS9. In its current Z06 configuration, the LS9 makes 620 horsepower and a thunderous 595 ft. lbs of tire-twisting torque. The Camaro LS9's supercharger will likely come equipped with a slightly larger pulley, dropping boost and producing somewhere in the range of 500 horsepower (Road & Track). Even so, this engine should still maintain the corvette's table-top flat torque curve and continue to produce about 90 percent of its peak torque from 2,600 to 6,000 RPM. That means that the next generation should accelerate from 0 to 60 at least as fast as the Corvette, smoking the tires all the way through third gear.

Friday, July 15, 2016

What Is Dealer Invoice Cost?

Many new car dealers offer special sales like "Buy a car at the invoice price" or "Pay just one dollar over invoice." You might assume that the price on the dealer's invoice paperwork represents the actual cost of the vehicle, but that is not necessarily the case. There are many factors, such as holdbacks and special incentives, that can reduce the invoice cost to well below the numbers on the factory invoice paperwork. If you know how to determine the actual invoice cost, you may be able to negotiate a better deal.

A dealer invoice is a document that shows the actual cost of a new car and its various options. This cost is often much lower than the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). Technically, the invoice is supposed to reflect how much the dealer pays to the manufacturer for the car. However, other factors play into determining the actual dealer cost, and it's often lower than the number shown on the invoice itself.

The holdback is an amount that is deducted from a car's invoice price by the manufacturer, reducing the actual invoice cost. This number will not be shown on the invoice paperwork. It varies depending on the car's manufacturer, but it's usually either a percentage of the invoice total or a flat amount. Many new car dealers will not negotiate with customers on the holdback amount, but you should be aware of it because it reduces the true invoice cost.

Often a car manufacturer will offer special factory-to-dealer incentives on certain new car makes and models. These bonuses are different than a rebate because they are given directly to the dealer rather than to the customer. Incentives reduce a car's invoice cost to the dealer, who can then choose to keep the money as additional profit or give a discount to buyers.

Many car dealers add additional markups onto each new car sale. Even if they are selling you a new car for the price marked on the invoice, they may require you to pay a "documentation fee" that can run several hundred dollars. There are other names for this type of fee, but no matter what it's called, it is profit to the dealer over and above the invoice cost.

You can determine the true invoice cost of a new car by doing some research before you visit the dealership. There are many websites, such as Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds, that will give you the invoice price for vehicles and options. If you dig a little deeper, you will find that many of these sites also list holdback amounts and provide information on current factory-to-dealer incentives. You can subtract these amounts from the invoice price to determine the real invoice cost.

Information on the Toyota Yaris

Sakichi Toyoda established Toyoda Automatic Loom Works in 1926 to mass-produce his invention: the automatic loom. Toyoda added an auto manufacturing department in 1933. In 1937, his son Kiichiro Toyoda took over the automobile department and created the Toyota Motor Company.

The Toyota Yaris was introduced first to Europe in 1999 where it became Toyota's top-selling model. The Yaris became available to the U.S. market in 2007 as a replacement for the Toyota Echo.

The Yaris comes in three different body styles, each with front wheel drive and the option of a manual or automatic transmission. The Yaris is offered as a 4-door sedan, a 3-door liftback or a 5-door liftback. Each has a seating capacity of five persons and a fuel efficiency rating of 29 mpg (miles per gallon) in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

All style options come equipped with a 1.5 liter 4-cylinder engine, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, audio package with four speakers, 12-V outlet, remote hood and fuel door release, 14-inch steel wheels, AM/FM antenna, front and side airbags and traction and stability control. Optional features and package choices include 15-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, satellite radio compatibility, remote entry system, sport-style seats, power doors and windows and front and rear spoilers.

Thursday, July 14, 2016

Tesla Car History

The Palo Alto, California-based Tesla Motors produces the electric-powered Tesla Roadster and the full-size Model S four-door sedan. A 2012 launch date is set for the Model S. A group of investors, including Elon Musk and Martin Eberhard, co-founded the company in 2003. Eberhard no longer works for the company. The roadster debuted in 2008 and features an alternating-current induction motor and rechargeable battery pack. In 2011, the company had more than 1,000 employees.

Tesla conceived the roadster as an alternative to the internal combustion engine, to demonstrate that an all-electric sports car can effectively compete against conventional vehicles. The base price of a 2011 Tesla Roadster is about $109,000. The vehicle sits on the British-built Lotus chassis and features a Lotus-designed body. Automotive journalists note the roadsters speeds are competitive with other sports cars in Tesla's class, but the vehicle doesn't always live up to it's claimed 225- to 250-mile range before recharging. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency gives the Tesla a stated range of 244 miles on a fully charged battery, but during one test drive, the range was closer to 150 to 200 miles.

The Tesla employs a battery-powered, three-phase AC induction motor originally patented in 1888 by Nikola Tesla. The motor was primarily an industrial powerplant. The motor features a rotor to turn the wheels and a stationary stator that develops a magnetic field to induce current to the rotor to produce torque. The 990 lb. liquid-cooled battery pack features lithium-ion cells and provides up to 215 kW of electrical power. The motor develops up to 288 horsepower and 295 foot-pounds of torque. It's capable of reaching 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Its top speed is 130 mph. The Tesla plugs into an AC outlet, although recharging is slow at only five miles of driving gained for every hour of charging. A Tesla-supplied home charger provides 56 miles per hour of charging.

The two-seat Tesla Roadster features the Lotus 92.6-inch wheelbase and overall body length of 155.1 inches. It stands only 44.3 inches from the pavement to the top of the roofline, and is 72.9 inches wide. Its curbside weight is 2,723 lbs. The headroom in the cabin is a tight squeeze at 36.7 inches, but legroom is ample at 42 inches. The shoulder room measures 26 inches. The chassis features all-wheel independent suspension with upper/lower unequal length wishbones and coil springs equipped with telescopic dampers.

The 2012 Model S sedan has a 116.5-inch wheelbase, and its body measures 196 inches long. It's marketed as a luxury car that can seat five adults and two kids, with cargo space in the trunk and under the hood. Optional equipment includes battery packs that offer 160-, 230- or 300-mile driving ranges. Tesla engineers expect the Model S to recharge in 45 minutes with Tesla's QuickCharge system. Although designed as a luxury car, it can achieve 60 mph from a stop in 5.6 seconds, and a top speed of 120 mph.

How to Compare Eco Cars

Electric vehicles, gas-electric hybrid cars and other types of eco cars are becoming increasingly available to consumers in the marketplace. Environmentally-conscious car buyers interested in minimizing their vehicles' carbon footprint in terms of emissions will pick an eco car based on a myriad of factors. Figures such as fuel efficiency and safety ratings are important variables to consider when comparing ecologically-friendly cars.

Instructions

Make a list of the different types of eco cars that are available on the market. Car types that have the least environmental impact include compact traditional gasoline automobiles, gas-electric hybrids, flex-fuel cars, battery-powered cars and biodiesel vehicles.

Visit the websites of major automobile manufacturers and make a list of the types of compact and eco cars sold by these companies. Separate the cars by type when conducting your research. Make a note of each cars fuel efficiency, i.e., the measure of how many miles a car travels per gallon of gas.

Log onto the websites of the following companies for hybrid sedans: Toyota, Honda, Suzuki, Chevrolet, Ford, Audi, Nissan, Volkswagen, Kia, Lexus, Saab and BMW. The Toyota Prius is the number-one selling hybrid and has the best fuel efficiency, at 50 miles per gallon.

Compile information on coupes and luxury hybrids from companies such as: Tesla, Honda, Smart, Mini, Toyota, Dodge, Subaru, Volvo and Ford.

Perform online research on larger vehicles, such as trucks and vans. Manufacturers include Chevrolet, GMC, Ford, Toyota, Dodge, Mazda and Volvo. Hybrid SUVs are produced by Mercury, Mazda, Toyota, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Lexus, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Cadillac, BMW and Mitsubishi.

Compile a list of standard gasoline compact cars, such as the Chevrolet Aveo, the Hyundai Accent and the Ford Fiesta. Some compact cars may have better MPG fuel efficiency than some eco cars.

Compare the eco cars to standard gasoline vehicles that have good MPG ratings. There are economy-sized, standard gasoline vehicles that may be more economical than some hybrids.

Consider the overall costs of the vehicles on your list with regard to their long-term economical benefits. Hybrid cars generally cost more than traditional cars of similar size and features. However, some buyers' concerns about environmental impact may outweigh any budget issues.

Compare the carbon footprint of eco cars. Eco cars emit less greenhouse gas emissions than standard gasoline brands. The battery-powered Tesla emits the lowest amount of all but costs over $100,000.

Visit the U.S. Department of Energys website at FuelEconomy.gov for information on the annual greenhouse gas emissions of different cars.

Research government safety ratings. Every new car sold in the United States has a safety rating from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. These ratings are available at NRD.NHTSA.dot.gov. Make a comparison chart of the safety ratings of eco cars.

Check the list of recalls on the National Highway Traffic and Safety website to make sure the car you are interested in does not have a defect that needs to be addressed.

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

2007 HEMI Specs

Chrysler started putting HEMI engines in production cars in 1951, making the HEMI "Fire Power" V8 standard in the New Yorker, Crown Imperial, Imperial and Saratoga that year. In 1955, the company introduced the Chrysler 300, which has a four-barrel, HEMI engine with a 331-cubic inch displacement. It was the first production car with 300 horsepower and it ignited the "horsepower wars" what lasted into the 1970s. The HEMI engine has seen numerous innovations and advancements through the past 60 years and is used in a range of vehicles, including the Dodge Ram pickup, the Durango SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger. The 2007 HEMI comes as either a 5.7-liter V8 or a 6.1-liter V8.

The horsepower and torque varies significantly depending both on the size of the 2007 HEMI engine and the model of the car it was in. The 5.7-liter engine achieves 330 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 375 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm in the 2007 Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee. However, the 5.7-liter, 2007 HEMI is capable of 350 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 390 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm in the 2007 Dodge Charger R/T. The 6.1-liter, 2007 HEMI engine is capable of 425 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 420 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm in all models it is available in.

The 2007 HEMI engine has a cast-iron cylinder block with a cross-bolted main bearing caps that are used four bolts per cap. The cylinder head is made of A319F aluminum and has a cross-flow design with a hemispherical combustion chamber and 16 valves. The valvetrain has a single "beehive" design.

All 2007 HEMIs use a sequential, multi-port fuel injection system with electronically controlled combustion. They rely on a distributor-less and coil-near-plugs ignition system with two spark plugs per cylinder. The firing order of the cylinders is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2.

How to Buy Military Surplus Vehicles

Thousands of former military items are sold to the public every year, either singly or in lots. Here's how to keep an eye out for the vehicle you want.

Instructions

Log on to the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service's Web site, which lists all surplus goods for sale worldwide, along with instructions for buying or bidding. The information is there, although the setup doesn't seem user-friendly at first.

Follow the link for Sales Customers, select Buy DRMS Property and then choose Do a Property Search. From there, you can search for a vehicle using a number of paths. For example, you can search by Commodity Category, then select Ground Transportation Equipment and hit Submit Search.

Browse through the list that appears next. It usually runs more to heavy equipment than to passenger vehicles, but it's also likely to have everything from auto parts, to cars, to cargo trucks, to railway cars.

Order catalogs if you want to skip the Web site. But catalogs are not just less timely, they're also less precise because you have to sift through lists of all the sales in your region and maybe elsewhere.

Find out where you have to go in person, and when, to inspect any vehicle that interests you.

Read carefully about the procedure for that particular auction or sale, and follow those instructions.

Monday, July 11, 2016

Ford Flex Options

If you think because you have three children you need to drive a dorky minivan, think again. The Ford Flex is just as spacious as any seven-seat minivan and has the bonus of being more stylish than most other vehicles on the road. Simply put, there is nothing else on the market that looks like the Ford Flex.

EcoBoost is an important option to pick on your new Ford Flex, as it bestows the base 3.5-liter, V6 engine with turbocharging and direct injection. The result is near muscle-car levels of performance (355 horsepower) mixed in with 17/25 EPA fuel efficiency ratings, as compared to 19/25 for the basic engine, which is down on power by more than 100 horsepower.

Sync is fast becoming one of Ford's signature technology pieces. Developed in conjunction with Microsoft, Sync allows you to control navigation, radio and cell phone by voice, without ever having to leave your seat. Sync also calls 911 immediately if it senses an accident. Sync is free on many models such as the Flex, but on lower-end models, like the Focus, there is a small fee that adds close to $200 to the sticker price.

If you have ever had a vehicle where children were the primary passengers, you know the importance of carrying snacks with you. The refrigerated center console option is located between the second-row seats and is spacious enough to store a six-pack of soda and a few bags of fresh fruit. The car has to be running for the fridge to work, so do not park in a dusty lot for 10 days near Death Valley and expect to find your apples still looking crisp.

True audiophiles who want the utmost in premium audio will have to come up with sufficient cash to select the top level Flex Limited or SEL models. When Ford wanted to design an upscale audio system for the living room like setting of its Flex, it turned to premiere audio expert Sony. The result is standard on the Limited model and features 390 watts of power pumping through 12 optimally placed stereo speakers. Ford also gives you free XM Satellite radio for three months if you option your Flex with this outstanding audio system.

The Multi-Panel Vista Roof option is becoming very popular with new car buyers, as it can take what is ordinarily a dark, somber interior and make it feel really spacious. By making the most of the roof glass, Ford engineers have managed to open up even more perceived spaciousness in the interior of the Flex. That is quite something, as the Flex has a rather large seven-seat interior already. While the Multi-Panel Vista Roof turns metal into glass it does not feature any glass that moves like a sunroof or moonroof. All of the glass is fixed on the Flex with this option.

Specifications for 4 Cylinder Engine

Car, truck and SUV manufacturers use a wide range of engine types and sizes to power the vehicles people use every day. From the 4-cylinder engines you can find in compact cars, to the powerful V8, V10 and V12 engines in sports cars, each engine relies on precise engineering and a number of different components, all tuned to the right specifications, to operate properly and efficiently.

The vast majority of 4-cylinder engines in passenger cars use an inline cylinder layout. This means that the engine block places all four cylinders in a single row. The major alternative to an inline layout is a V-layout, which gives V6 and V8 engines their designation. While V4 engines do exist, they are rare in automobiles.

Cars can use 4-cylinder engines in a number of positions. Some vehicles use a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, with the 4-cylinder engine mounted behind the passenger compartment. Others have the 4-cylinder engine in the front, under the hood. When a front-engine car features rear-wheel drive, the 4-cylinder engine is mounted in a longitudinal position, running parallel to the length of the car. In front-engine/front-wheel-drive cars, the engine takes a transverse position, running perpendicular to the length of the car, or side-to-side under the hood.

A 4-cylinder engine's displacement measures the total volume of its four combustion chambers, or cylinders. Automakers commonly advertise an engine's size as its total displacement, either in cubic inches or liters. You can compute an engine's displacement using its bore, or the width of each cylinder, with the stroke, or the functional depth of each chamber, and multiplying the result by four for the number of cylinders. Most 4-cylinder engines have a displacement of less than three liters, and many are below two liters.

In a 4-cylinder engine, each of the four combustion chambers needs at least one fuel valve, to allow fuel and air in, and one exhaust valve, to expel unburned fuel and gasses after combustion. The smallest number of valves a 4-cylinder engine can have is eight, with two valves per cylinder. However, some 4-cylinder engines use three, or even four, valves per cylinder for a total of 12 or 16. Valve layouts vary from one automaker to another, and don't necessarily represent more power or greater efficiency.

Horsepower is the major metric for ranging an engine's ability to produce power. A 4-cylinder engine produces a range of horsepower at different engine speeds, with automakers generally advertising the engine's peak horsepower, even if it only occurs within a narrow range of very high engine speeds. Torque is another important measurement, referring to how much turning power the engine produces at a car's wheels. A 4-cylinder engine with a low horsepower rating but a reasonable amount of torque should deliver ample power in most driving conditions.

Aspiration refers to the process through which an engine receives air, which contains the oxygen necessary for combustion. A naturally aspirated engine draws in air on its own through a four-stroke cycle of intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. However, to compensate for the small displacement and low power output of some 4-cylinder engines, automakers may add a turbocharger or supercharger. These devices force additional air into the engine for a more powerful combustion stroke and, ultimately, more power. Turbocharged 4-cylinder engines have higher horsepower ratings than similar engines that are naturally aspirated.

How to Buy an Extended Vespa Warranty

Vespa has sold more than 16 million units worldwide since the birth of the company in 1946. The name has become a trusted and respected name in the world of scooters. If you have decided to purchase a new Vespa, think about purchasing an extended warranty as a means to protect your investment. An extended warranty is available to customers for 90 days after the purchase of their Vespa.

Instructions

Learn more about Vespa's extended warranty by choosing the "Service" link on the side bar at the Vespa home page.

Find a Vespa dealer. Locate a Vespa dealers online at the Vespa website. From the right side bar on the Dealer page click the "Find a Dealer" link and enter your city and state or zip code into the appropriate fields. The site then find the closest registered, licensed Vespa Dealer to you.

Ask your dealer about a factory-endorsed extended warranty plan. The warranty adds 2 years to your coverage. It is also transferable if you sell your Vespa.

Buy your extended warranty within 90 days of the purchase of your Vespa. You may purchase the warranty from any licensed Vespa dealer.

Join the Vespa mailing list by signing up on their website. Go to their "Contact" page and click on "Request Info." Joining allows you to request more information about any given Vespa topic and receive product and service updates directly from the company.

Specifications for a 2005 VW Jetta TDI GL Wagon

The Jetta is Volkswagen's best-selling model in the United States, and it comes in many different forms. The 2005 VW Jetta TDI GL Wagon has more room than the sedan version, and the TDI designation indicates that it runs on clean diesel rather than gasoline. The car is compliant with the emissions requirements in all 50 states, according to Edmunds.

The car has body side molding as well as chrome trim on the sides and on the bumpers. It also has heated side mirrors and windshield wipers with a variable intermittent setting.

The car has a 1.9-liter diesel four-cylinder engine. It has 100 horsepower at 4,000 revolutions per minute with 177 foot-pounds of torque. The diesel fuel tank can hold 14.5 gallons. The fuel economy of the car is 46 mpg on the highway and 38 in the city.

The car has a strut front suspension that is independent with a stabilizer bar and coil springs. The rear features a torsion beam suspension that is semi-independent with a stabilizer bar and coil springs. The stabilizer bar, or anti-roll bar, keeps the car's body from "rolling" on tight turns.

The interior features air conditioning, a roof antenna and an audio system with AM/FM radio, a CD player and a cassette deck. It also has cruise control, a lockable glove compartment and an illuminated entry system. The car will warn you when you are low on fuel, as well as when your washer fluid needs topping off. The car seats five.

Safety features include an anti-lock braking system that prevents the brakes from locking up when the driver slams on the brakes. The car also offers front airbags for both the driver and passenger, with sensors detecting when there's an occupant in the seats. A front-side airbag is also included. The car has anti-theft protection systems.

Saturday, July 9, 2016

How to Figure Taxes on a Lease Car in New Jersey

Figuring taxes on a lease car deal in New Jersey is an easy process as the state only requires taxes to be calculated relative to your monthly payment. Calculating taxes using this method means that you must only pay tax on the vehicle's depreciation, not the full selling price. This can save you thousands of dollars in tax over the term of the lease. Take note that most advertised car leases do not include sales tax, so you will need to use this calculation to approximate the actual monthly payment of an advertised lease.

Instructions

Determine the base monthly payment. The base monthly payment is the amount advertised by car manufacturers and auto dealerships, and is also the price you are likely quoted when contacting the dealership via the Internet. Remember that this base monthly payment may include a large down payment or capitalized cost reduction, so you may need to contact the dealership to get a more specific quote for a vehicle that fits your needs and budget. The residual values and money factors used to calculate lease payments change on a monthly basis.

Calculate the monthly sales tax. Sales tax is charged monthly as a percentage of the base payment. Therefore, if you make a large down payment or have positive equity in a vehicle you trade in, your monthly payment will be lower as well as your sales tax. To calculate the monthly sales tax, multiply the base monthly payment by 7 percent. This calculation will yield the monthly sales tax.

Add the figures together. To see the true impact of the base monthly payment on the sales tax, add the two figures together. This is your total monthly payment due to the leasing company each month.

Friday, July 8, 2016

Torque Specifications for a 2006 Chevy Aveo

Chevy introduced the subcompact Aveo in 2004. It was inspired by the Daewoo Kalos and designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro's Italdesign studios in Turin, Italy. The 2004 Aveo seated five and was available as either a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback. The car was redesigned in 2007 but kept the same basic body structure. The five-door hatchback has been called the Aveo5 since the redesign. Chevy made minor revisions, such as the addition of driver and passenger airbags and a retuning of the suspension, to the 2006 Aveo, but the engine and torque specs stayed basically the same.

All trims of the 2006 Chevy Aveo, including the five-door hatchback, came with a 1.6L, 103hp, 16-valve, DOHC, in-line, four-cylinder engine with 1,598cc of displacement, a bore and stroke of 3.11" x 3.21" and a compression ratio of 9.5:1.

A five-speed manual transmission was standard on all trims, but a four-speed automatic transmission was optional for the LS Sedan, the LT Sedan, the LS five-door and the LT five-door trims.

All trims came with an 11-gallon fuel tank. The 2006 Aveo earned an EPA fuel rating of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the four-speed automatic transmission and 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with the five-speed manual transmission.

The 2006 Chevy Aveo achieved its maximum horsepower of 103 @ 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 107lb-ft @ 3,600rpm.

The horsepower and torque of the 2006 Chevy Aveo was the same as that of the 2005 edition. The engine, horsepower and torque specs remained the same for the Aveo in 2007, after Chevy redesigned the vehicle.

The torque of the 2006 Aveo was comparable to that of other cars in its class. For instance, the 2006 Hyundai Accent came with a 110hp, 1.6L, 4-cylinder, in-line engine that produced a maximum torque of 106ft-lbs @ 4,500rpm.

Thursday, July 7, 2016

How to Buy a Rebuilt Salvage Car

Cars with the term rebuilt, rebuilt salvage, or salvage on the title have been through a serious accident and may have been repaired. What counts as a serious accident, as well as when a car is considered rebuilt from it's salvage condition, differs from state to state. Some states do not require salvaged vehicles to be marked as such on the title. Purchasing a rebuilt salvage vehicle can be risky, as damage is not always adequately repaired.

Instructions

Consider the risks of purchasing a rebuilt salvage vehicle. Many cars with this designation are declared as totaled by an insurance company, then sold at an auction. Some sellers might perform only the most minor repairs before selling these vehicles, leaving them unsafe.

Find an insurance company and financing before purchasing a salvaged or rebuilt vehicle. Most companies will not finance or insure a rebuilt vehicle. Finding companies that will must be done before choosing the car.

Look for signs of water damage to determine if the car was ever flooded. Check the interior for water lines, look for rust, and be wary of musty odors. Flooded cars can have serious mechanical problems that are hard to find with an engine inspection.

Check state laws for rules about changing a salvaged vehicle title to a rebuilt title. Some states require cars to have safety inspections before the title is changed, while others do not.

Examine the car for signs of frame damage. Twisted or out of position door frames, trunk lids or hoods and hard to shut doors are all signs. A damaged frame can make a car more likely to crumple in an accident, and is very difficult and expensive to repair correctly.

Run a vehicle history check. Some vehicle history checks show the accident or incident that caused the car to be considered a salvage. Auto insurance companies are not always required to report the incident, however.

Purchase a rebuilt vehicle for well below it's estimated used value. Rebuilt vehicles should cost at least 25 percent less than a used car of similiar age and odometer reading.

Sunday, July 31, 2016

Fuel Economy

Manual Versus Automatic

Leather Trim

Seat Differences

LXP Features

Size

Style

Engines

Fuel Efficiency

Saturday, July 30, 2016

Instructions

Instructions

Engine

Gearbox

Chassis

Packaging

Performance

Friday, July 29, 2016

Instructions

Engines and Transmissions

Safety Features

Interior

Exterior

Colors

Instructions

Instructions

Pacific Auction

J&M Auction

Pyramid Motors

Thursday, July 28, 2016

Instructions

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Performance

Suspension

Brake

Wheels and Tires

Features

Customization

Reliability

Warranty

Value

Status

Tundra Regular Cab

Tundra Double Cab

Tundra CrewMax

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Instructions

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Instructions

Friday, July 22, 2016

Engine

Exterior

Interior

Thursday, July 21, 2016

Instructions

Comparing Crossover SUVs

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

Instructions

Exterior

Interior

Engine Power

Safety Ratings

Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Instructions

Instructions

Monday, July 18, 2016

Transmission Problems

Model Years Affected

Cost

Sunday, July 17, 2016

Salvage Title

Rebuilt Title

Differences

Warning

Instructions

Saturday, July 16, 2016

Safety

Fuel Efficiency

Expert Advice