Car Buying Guides: August 2016

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

What Are Mazda T-3500 Specs?

The Mazda T3500 is a small bus marketed in the late-1980s and early-1990s. These buses were not generally sold in North America. They were predominantly sold in countries such as India and Australia. Some T3500 buses have been converted to mobile homes and RVs.

The Mazda T3500 has a four-cylinder OHV diesel engine. Bore and stroke is 3.9 inches by 4.3 inches. Maximum torque is 167.42 foot-pounds at 2000 rpm. Maximum power is 88.78 horsepower at 3000 rpm. The compression ratio is 18:1.

The wheels are 4.5 inches by 16 inches both front and back. The rear of the bus has dual wheels on each side. The tire size is 6.50 R16-8PR. Wheelbase is 131 inches. The exterior dimensions are 243 inches in length, 78.5 inches in width and 102 inches in height. Total weight of the vehicle is 3086.5 pounds.

The T3500 has a five-speed manual transmission. There is a rear window emergency exit and the side windows are all safety glass. Turning diameter of the bus is 46.58 feet. The bus' brakes are hydraulic. Fuel capacity is about 23.75 gallons. Seating capacity is 19 people.

What Is a Rebuilt Orange Title?

According to the Michigan Department of State website, automobiles that are damaged to such an extent that the insurance company will not repair them are issued a salvage or rebuilt title. Such titles are colored orange.

An orange rebuilt title is issued to any vehicle in which major components, such as bumpers, the transmission or the engine, have been damaged. The Michigan Department of State reports that an insurance company will determine the value of the damage; a rebuilt or salvaged orange title is awarded to a vehicle that has sustained damage with estimated repair costs that are more than 75 percent of the vehicle's cash value.

According to the Georgia Department of Revenue, a rebuilt title is issued to a vehicle that is repaired following the awarding of a salvage title. To be awarded a rebuilt title, a vehicle must pass stringent inspections--by a certified inspector, in most states, or in some cases by a qualified law enforcement officer.

The Michigan Department of State explains that orange rebuilt titles are branded with the rebuilt wording for the life of the vehicle. To make the branding of the title easier, an orange color has been used for rebuilt and salvage titles since 1989.

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

How do I Find a New GMC Envoy?

Purchasing a new GMC Envoy is still possible. While GMC did not make the Envoy after 2009, many dealerships still have an inventory of brand new 2009 models still available. A benefit of purchasing a new 2009 Envoy is that the vehicle would have been at the dealership for a long period of time, which will help the consumer to negotiate the best deal possible. Autotrader.com are websites which consumers can search nationwide for any vehicle, new or used from both dealerships and private parties.

Instructions

Go to autotrader.com. On the homepage, enter the zip code where your resides. On autotrader, you can search for make, model, year, new or used and location.

Select "New Cars". If desired, in the next box, select a mileage range for the vehicle location, or select "any distance" to search nationwide.

Enter "GMC" for Make and "Envoy" for model.

Enter the distance which you are willing to travel to purchase the new Envoy, if you are willing to have it shipped, enter "any distance" in the drop-down tab.

Click "Search" at the bottom of the page. The search results will show on the next page with all the new GMC Envoys available.

Monday, August 29, 2016

How Is the 2011 Honda CRV Different From the 2010 CRV?

The 2010 Honda CR-V crossover sport utility vehicle underwent significant modifications over the 2009 models, including a beefed up in-line four-cylinder engine, some cosmetic upgrades, and the addition of a USB audio input and Bluetooth as options. For 2011, Honda saw little need for changes, with the exception of adding a lower-range trim level, the SE, to complement the LX, EX, EX-L and EX-L with Navigation trims.

Honda introduced the CR-V as a compact station wagon in 1995, and then redesigned it for the second generation as a crossover SUV. As a crossover, it featured more passenger-car qualities, but kept its rugged SUV appearance. The CR-V was an early pioneer in crossover engineering and served as a template for later crossovers from Ford and General Motors. As a crossover SUV, the CR-V is not particularly known for its stylish good looks or power under the hood, but over the years earned a reputation as an economical, well-built and roomy vehicle.

The 2010 Honda CR-V featured four trim levels: the base LX, the mid-range EX, the high-end EX-L and the EX-L with Navigation. The EX-L with Navigation was identical to the EX-L with the exception of the navigation system. For the 2011 model year, Honda introduced the SE trim level and positioned it between the LX and the EX. The SE was essentially a base trim level with a couple of additions to spruce up its appearance and to add a quality stereo system. All trim levels are available in two- or four-wheel drive.

Honda kept the lower trims LX and SE with nearly the same features. Like the high-end trims, the LX and SE received the 180-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine capable of wielding 161 foot-pounds of torque. Both models featured unit-body construction, MacPherson strut front suspension and power-assisted steering and brakes. Interior features include air conditioning, power windows and locks, reclining front bucket seats and a 60/40 rear split seat. However, Honda gave the SE 17-inch alloy wheels, while the LX received steel wheels. The 2011 SE also was equipped with rear privacy glass and an upgraded audio system. The SEs audio system included audio controls on the steering wheel and a 160-watt, AM-FM, six-disc CD in-dash stereo system with six speakers. In contrast, the 2010 and 2011 LX received the 160-watt, AM-FM, single-disc CD stereo with four speakers. The LX had no audio controls on the steering wheel.

All CR-V trim levels share the same interior and exterior dimensions. The 2010 and 2011 CR-V sits on a 103.1-inch wheelbase and the body is 179.3 inches long. The new 2011 SE is lighter than the 2010 and 2011 EX and EX-L versions. The 2011 two-wheel-drive SE and LX have a curbside weight of 3,386 lbs. while the four-wheel-drive LX and SE have a curbside weight of 3,503 lbs. The 2011 EX two-wheel-drive weighs 3,413 lbs. and the four-wheel-drive weighs 3,534 lbs. The two EX-L versions weigh even more than the SE at 3,430 lbs. for the two-wheel-drive and 3,554 lbs. for the four-wheel-drive.

Mercedes Model Information

Mercedes Benz has been delivering superior quality cars for over a century, producing everything from sedans and coupes to light trucks, SUVs and super cars. MB has been a sought-after vehicle for dignitaries and heads of state for many years, but with their current model line-up, almost anyone can have a chance to drive one.

MB offers a sedan to suit most needs. Their entry level C-class, which is their base model vehicle, is one of their most popular models. For those looking for a bit more room, there is the MB E-class. Next is the MB flagship, the S-class. Offering not only size but power, the S-class has been one of the many reasons why MB is such a success. New for MB is the CLS. Though MB considers it to be a four-door coupe with its low-slung windshield and roof lines, it still lands in the realm of the sedan.

For those who want something a bit sportier and with two doors, MB offers the CLK coupe. The CL-Class offers the same appeal but with more leg room. This two-door luxury coupe is similar to a MB S-class minus the two rear doors.

Roadsters have hard tops that fold into the roof to turn a coupe into a convertible. MB has two different roadster models; the smaller is the SLK. The SL is also a two-seater like it's little brother the SLK, but it is bigger and more powerful.

The R-class is not quite a SUV and not quite a wagon. It has extra room for the kids, optional DVD players in the headrests and plenty of room in the trunk.

The MB GLK is the starter in the MB truck lineup. It's a mid-size SUV that is made to be driven daily with just enough extra room without being cumbersome. The M-class was made for the average customer and is still a popular choice for many MB drivers. For those needing a third row to pick up the soccer team, MB has the GL-class. The MB G wagon is an army-looking SUV with plenty of power.

Considered to be the best car ever built by many, the SLR is a beast of an automobile. Using race technology, carbon fiber and a high output motor, it is a vehicle few have seen and even fewer have driven. And with the base price tag of $495,000 for the SLR Roadster, that's hardly a surprise.

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Car Invoice Vs. MSRP

Buying a new car can be overwhelming when you want to be sure you get the best possible price. You may have heard of the invoice price and the MRSP, but if you don't know what they are and what they mean, you won't be able to calculate a fair price for the vehicle. However, if you educate yourself about the difference between the two, you will be prepared to negotiate with a car dealer and get a bargain.

MSRP stands for "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price." It is a suggested selling price set by the manufacturer for each vehicle. It is commonly known as the "sticker price" because it clearly listed on a sticker placed in all new car windows. The sticker will also list all of the standard and optional equipment on the car and each item's individual cost. It also lists the destination charge.

A car invoice is a document that lists all the standard and optional equipment on a car and the dealer's cost for each individual item. It also lists the destination charge.

Dealers are required by law to have the MSRP sticker clearly displayed in the window of all new cars. Consumers have easy access to MSRP information simply by reviewing the window sticker.

Dealers do not have to reveal the invoice price of a car. However, many will let a customer see the invoice upon request. They do this because invoice information is widely available on the internet on sites like Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds. If they are unwilling to give it, the customer can get it anyway.

Many customers believe that the MRSP is a car's real selling price. However, the "S" stands for "Suggested," and dealers are free to sell a car for more or less than the MSRP. Most commonly they will sell it for less if a customer negotiates. If a vehicle is a particularly popular or rare model, the dealer can sell it for more than the MSRP.

There is also a common belief that the invoice price of a car is the amount a dealer pays for it. While it does give the general amount, there are other factors that affect the dealer's true cost. A certain percentage of the car's cost, known as the holdback, is given to the dealer by the manufacturer. There may also be factory-to-dealer incentives that bring down the cost of a particular vehicle.

The MSRP is not very useful to a smart consumer because educated buyers pay below that amount. The invoice is useful because it gives a baseline price at which negotiations can begin. Some dealers will even sell cars below invoice price. They will still make money because they get the holdback and there may be lucrative factory-to-dealer incentives on the vehicle.

Both the invoice and MSRP sticker are pre-printed documents. However, some dealers will add items to the MRSP. These are typically optional items like fabric protection, undercoating and tinting that have been added to the car by the dealer rather than the factory. The items will usually be written in and added to the MSRP total. These items cost the dealer very little, so a shrewd buyer can often negotiate them out of the vehicle's price.

328i Vs. 328xi BMW

Currently in its fifth generation, the BMW 3-Series comprises more than a dozen vehicles that differ from one another in body structure and technical specifications. Most of them are numbered 328 or 335, with a letter or two placed next to each number to denote the differences between the models. Thus, even though the 328i and 328xi, for example, have many similarities, they differ in certain aspects.

The 328i and 328xi are similar in price range ($30,000+), although the latter is a little more expensive. Each comes with a basic drivetrain and full-maintenance, four-year/50,000-mile warranty. They also are covered by 12-year/unlimited-mile and four-year/unlimited-mile warranties for corrosion and roadside assistance, respectively.

Both the 328i and 328xi have power door locks, power mirrors, power steering and power windows, along with other features like cruise control, front and rear A/Cs, bucket vinyl seats, wood grain trim, rain-sensing intermittent wipers, keyless entry, HID headlights and fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheels that can be adjusted, anti-theft systems and premium sound systems with AM/FM stereo tuners and CD/MP3 players. Although they are both available as coupes or sedans, the 328i can also be purchased as a convertible.

The 328i has slightly better fuel economy than the 328xi, but both models boast the same 3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder engine with 230 horsepower. They also come with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, though an automatic is available for both as well.

Each model has airbags by the driver's seat (head), the passenger side and flanking the rear seats of the car. Additionally, they have aluminum wheels with four-wheel disc breaks and ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems), plus traction control and stability control.

The main difference between the 328i and the 328xi lies in the drivetrain--all the power-transmitting components responsible for making the car move. The 328i uses rear-wheel drive (RWD), which means that the vehicle uses only the rear wheels to move. In contrast, the 328xi uses all-wheel drive (AWD), which means the car's four wheels are driven by the engine all the time. That explains why there is an "x" preceding the "i": it stands for BMW's four-wheel drive system, the BMW xDrive. This system is also used in BMW's sports utility vehicles.

Saturday, August 27, 2016

How to Calculate New Car Prices

Purchasing a new car is one of the largest expenditures that you will make. A knowledgeable buyer who has done research before negotiating on a new car is more likely to purchase the car at the best possible price. Pricing for new cars has become more uniform between dealers as true dealer pricing has been disseminated via books and the Internet. Obtaining the most accurate pricing requires you to have the exact model and options of the car you wish to price. Differences such as the color and features will alter the amount of money the dealer paid for the car.

Instructions

Open a web browser and navigate to Edmunds.com.

Click on the link labeled "New Cars." Select the make of the car and then model of the car to price.

Click on the link labeled with the body style and engine combination.

Click on the button labeled "Price with Options" and then check each feature or package included with this car. Select the color of the vehicle from the drop down list labeled "Select Color." Input your zip code in the box labeled "Enter your zip code" and then click on the button "TMV Pricing Report."

Three columns will be included in the pricing report "MSRP," "Invoice" and "What Others Are Paying." Use the invoice price as the base price of the vehicle.

Add an additional $250 to $500 for dealer fees to the base price. Dealer fees are mostly additional profit and are often negotiable.

Add one percent of the base price as a general guideline to the cost of the vehicle to cover tag fees. Tag fees vary between states and dealers are required to pay these fees directly to the state government.

Add state and local taxes to the final cost of the vehicle. Taxes vary based on the state and county.

Friday, August 26, 2016

How to Buy a Used Car on AutoTrader.com

There is a saying about buying a used car being the equivalent of buying someone else's problems. Before buying your next used car, it is important that you compare all available options, select a trusted source for your purchase and read reviews on the vehicles you are considering. Buying a used car isn't for all consumers; risks are more inherent in a vehicle that has been pre-owned than one that is factory-new. By taking steps to minimize risks through research and knowledgeable shopping, your car-buying experience will be enhanced overall.

Instructions

Navigate to http://www.autotrader.com.

In the "Research and Compare" area, select either certified or used cars.

Under "Used Cars", browse through the information provided on purchasing a used vehicle. Following the steps provided for tips on setting a spending limit, researching all options, test-drives, inspections and financing.

Under "Certified Cars", understand how a used car undergoes certification, how that will impact the car in performance and salability, and compare different certification programs.

Navigate to http://www.autotrader.com.

In the "Find Your Car" area, enter your zipcode or the zipcode of the area where you wish to buy your new vehicle.

Select the make you desire to purchase and click Next.

Change the radius button to search for used cars or certified cars and using the drop-down menu, select the radius around your designated zipcode that you wish to search.

Select the body style of the used car you wish to buy and then select the model that corresponds with the make you previously chose. At this point, you can also select up to two other makes and models.

Select the year range for your used vehicle.

Select a price range to search within.

To select additional criteria, click the plus sign next to "view more search criteria" to expand. Select any options that will influence your purchase.

Click Search AutoTrader. The results of your search will display. If no options are displayed, modify your selections to be less exclusive.

Thursday, August 25, 2016

GM Performance

General Motors includes a GM Performance Division in Warren, Michigan. It is where GM car enthusiasts collaborate and develop automobiles for racing, customized vehicles and high-performance solutions.

GM Performance's product line includes the 2011 Camaro SS, 2001 Cadillac CTS-V Sedan and the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe. Each vehicle features a 6.2-liter engine. Depending on the vehicle, the engine can generate up to 556 horsepower and 551 foot-pounds of torque.

Show vehicles come with advanced technology such as racing themes, luxury enhancements and mobility solutions. For instance, the 34 Chevrolet Coupe E85 features a street rod design and a 2-liter Ecotec turbocharged engine that outputs 500 horsepower. Another GM Performance show vehicle is the supercharged Bonneville Lakester Belly Tank that can travel more than 170 mph.

A variety of racing vehicles come from the GM Performance teams. Some of the cars participate in the Bonneville Salt Flats land-speed competition and the Sports Car Club of America Racing. Racing vehicles include the Chevy Bonneville Cobalt Speedster, Chevy Grand AM Cup Cobalt and Lakester Land Speed Vehicle.

GM Performance provides a look into future product lines with its concept vehicles. Some concept vehicles debuted at nationwide auto shows include the Buick Centieme, Chevrolet Volt Concept and the GMC Graphyte.

How to Import MG Cars From Another Country

Importing MG cars to the United States can be challenging. The United States Customs and Border Protection, an arm of the Department of Homeland Security, requires thorough documentation of the MG to demonstrate the vehicle conforms to U.S. safety and emissions standards. The British-made MG stopped importing its vehicles to the U.S. in 1980 partly due to the automakers difficulty in meeting U.S. standards. The automaker hasnt tested its cars to determine whether it meets U.S. regulations since then. MGs manufactured before 1968 may be exempt from U.S. emissions standards, but it should never be assumed.

Instructions

Clear the interior of the MG of any personal belongings. U.S. Customs prohibits using imported vehicles as storage containers.

Obtain the shippers original bill of lading for the MG. Collect the MGs bill of sale and vehicle registration. Collect any related documents stating conformity to U.S. safety and emissions regulations from the manufacturer. Complete the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) form 3520-1 and Department of Transportation (DOT) form HS-7. These forms declare the MG meets the emissions and safety requirements.

Determine that the MG is equipped with its manufacturers label stating it meets with EPA and DOT standards. The label should be affixed to the engine compartment. This label may be missing. If so, U.S. Customs is likely to demand proof of eligibility outlined in form 3520-1.

Contact MG Motor UK Limited in Longbridge, Birmingham, England, for a manufacturers letter stating the vehicle is in compliance with U.S. safety standards. MG must reference your cars vehicle identification number (VIN) in the letter.

Import the MG through an independent commercial importer, or ICI, if the vehicle does not meet EPA and DOT standards. The importer can help make modifications to the vehicle to comply with U.S. emissions and safety standards. Be prepared to pay very high import fees if the vehicle is imported through an ICI.

Clean the undercarriage of the vehicle to comply with U.S. Department of Agriculture requirements.

Pay a 2.5 percent duty on the MG once it reaches U.S. soil. Apply for a $400 exemption from customs if you are doing the following: accompanying the MG, plan to drive it for personal use, or you acquired it during your journey abroad.

How to Buy a Demolition Derby Car

The demolition derby has been a thrilling event for many years. It's a simple race to enter that requires an old car and some guts. If you want to do well in the demolition derby, you need to posses a little knowledge of cars and driving skills. Choosing the best car is important when entering.

Instructions

Find a heavier older car that still has some zip to it. It's not very important that there are some rust spots on the car. The gas guzzlers of tend to have the biggest advantage.

See if you can find something that still runs relatively well or is inexpensive to put into running condition.

Choose a car that you feel comfortable driving. Small repairs are minor if you feel the car handles well.

Paint the driver's door with light paint and put the black number on it. You need to make certain that the number is easily seen by all, so a driver's side door is important. It's against the rules to hit the driver's door.

Stay worry free about broken windows and headlamps. You will remove all glass in the car. It will be imperative that you remove the windshield, rear windows, side windows and even the head lamps. This is for your protection.

Get a discount for ruined seats. You will be removing the back seat and passenger seat, anyway.

Purchase a car with studded tires to get extra traction. Most tracks are turned to mud so traction is important.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

How to Compare Gas Mileage Efficiency

Miles per gallon (mpg) is an important factor in determining a vehicle's gas mileage efficiency. Consumers can have a more accurate picture of their vehicle's fuel economy, however, by also calculating in terms of gallons per 100 miles.

The EPA revised its tests to reflect more realistic driving conditions.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its testing methods for fuel economy in December 2006 by factoring in more realistic driving conditions, "such as high speed, aggressive driving, use of air conditioning, and cold temperature operation," according to its website. The revised mpg estimates were applied to all 2008 models, and consumers became understandably confused about whether or not the new vehicles were less fuel efficient than older cars.

Gallons per mile provides a truer picture of fuel economy.

Measuring fuel economy with mpg methodology led to a misconception that it rises proportionately. This could lead you to believe that you would spend 1/2 as much on fuel for a car with a 50 mpg rating than a 25 mpg vehicle. Calculating a vehicle's gas mileage efficiency in terms of gallons per mile (GPM), however, results in a more realistic view of fuel consumption.

The article "The Truth about Fuel Consumption" on Edmunds.com states that the value of using GPM to gauge fuel efficiency is that it takes into account the fact that "fuel-economy improvements from 12-20 mpg are significant" and "once vehicles get over 25 mpg, the gains are much less dramatic." The True Fuel Consumption Calculator on Edmunds.com allows you to convert your car's mpg into GPM easily; it is linked in the Resources section.

How to Inspect a Used Car Before Buying

Some used-car buyers answer classified ads and approach these vehicles with great trepidation. Such anxiety is rarely justified, but careful inspection is wholly warranted.

Instructions

Look at the car's exterior. If the paint is new, ask when the car was painted. Beware of cheap new details like $100 paint jobs. They often distract from larger problems such as underlying rust.

Check bumpers and wheel wells for signs of rust, dents or body filler. Then search the rest of the vehicle for rust, remembering to scan the underside. Exterior rust may indicate more in unseen areas.

Inspect both sides of the car 'as well as the front, rear and beneath' for any signs of more major body repair. Look for inconsistencies: Do the edges of the hood and door panels line up with the fenders and other side panels? Does the frame look aligned correctly? Such inconsistencies may be clues to previous wrecks.

Open the door. Check the interior for tears in upholstery, sun damage and general appearance.

Lift the hood. Look at the engine's overall cleanliness. Look for rust on the exhaust manifold and oil leaks around the valve cover and head gasket.

Check the oil on the dipstick by rubbing it against your thumb (make sure the engine is cool). If you feel small particles in the oil, the engine may be worn or have other problems.

Start up the engine. It should start immediately.

Take the car for a test drive. Check the brakes. They shouldn't squeal and should bring the car to a stop in a sufficiently short distance.

Test the transmission for slippage. Set the emergency brake, depress the clutch pedal and shift through the gears (if the car has a manual transmission). There shouldn't be any grinding sounds.

Check to make sure all of the lights (front and back) work, as well as the windshield wipers, turn signals and radio.

Ask to see a current smog certificate, if it's necessary in your state.

Ask to see a record of the car's maintenance. Look to see that the car had regular oil changes and checkups (maintenance schedules will vary by model). Also, inquire about additional work that has been done on the car and ask to see receipts.

What If a Dealer Sells You a Damaged Car?

Although it is illegal, some used car dealerships repair cars that have been in accidents or floods and sell them as cars with clean titles, often crossing state lines to do so.

The best way to avoid problems from a damaged car is to avoid buying it in the first place. Services like Carfax and AutoTrack can trace a car's entire history via the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Before you buy, ask an independent mechanic whom you trust to check the car over, paying particular attention to any rewelding of the frame or evidence of flood damage.

Even if the VIN and car history seem to check out okay, you need to look into the possibility of title-washing, a process in which a badly damaged car is repaired in one state, then moved to another state to create a clean title. Only California, Iowa and Michigan have laws protecting consumers against this practice.

Dealers are required by law to reveal any damage before you buy a car. If you feel you have bought a car with undisclosed damage, take it to an independent mechanic for corroboration of the damage. Speak to the owner or general manager of the dealership where you bought the car, and demand a replacement. If you don't get satisfaction, go over their heads to the manufacturer of the car, or consider contacting your state's attorney general and filing a lawsuit against the dealer.

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Different Toyota Types

Toyota unveiled the "Toyopet" car to the Unites States market in 1957. Its first car flopped in America, so it had to start from scratch to catch the attention of Americans. Over the years, Toyota gained the respect and attention of the American audience by introducing the various hybrids, SUVs, trucks and cars, including the Toyota Prius.

The Prius comes in four different models. The starting price for a Prius is $22,800 as of November 2010. The vehicle is hybrid with a 1.8-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine. It generates 98 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 104 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The car comes with light-emitting diode headlamps, an aerodynamic back spoiler and heated outside mirrors. The car sports 17-inch rims with P215/45R17 tires.

The 2011 Tacoma truck starts at $16,365 as of November 2010. You have the choice of a regular cab, access cab, double cab and X-runner. The two-wheel-drive regular cab features a 2.7-liter engine 16-valve 4-cylinder generates 159 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a 180 lb.-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm. The truck gets 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. It has 15-inch steel rims with P215/70R15 tires. The vehicle comes standard with cloth bench seats, carpeting and an AM and FM CD audio player.

The 2011 RAV4 comes in three different models. The base model starts at $21,925 as of November 2010. The vehicle features a 2.5-liter 16-valve engine with 179 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The fuel tank holds 15.9 gallons of gas, which allows the vehicle to get 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The interior comes with power door locks, power windows, cloth seats and 10-cup holders. The RAV 4 sports P225/65R 17 tires with 17-inch rims.

Monday, August 22, 2016

2004 Vs. 2008 Honda Pilot

Making its debut in 2003, the Honda Pilot is an eight-passenger mid-size SUV that derived inspiration from its counterpart in Honda's luxury division (the Acura MDX) and counts the Ford Explorer, the Nissan Murano and the Toyota Highlander as its fiercest rivals. The 2004 and 2008 Pilot belong to the model's first generation.

With the 2004 Honda Pilot, there are two main trims: the basic LX and the more upscale EX, which included alloy wheels, keyless entry, power driver's seat, automatic climate control and upgraded audio with steering-wheel controls. The EX also has an alternative incarnation: the EX-L, which comes with leather upholstery and the available option of either adding a rear-positioned DVD player or a navigation system. The 2008 Honda Pilot added some new models to its lineup, scraping the LX line in favor of VP and adding a sports-oriented SE version while retaining the EX and EX-L trims.

Both the 2004 and 2008 Pilots have 3.5-liter V6 engines, although that of the latter has more horsepower. All 2004 trims come in all-wheel drive, although some of the 2008 trims have front drive. On average, the 2004 Pilot gets better fuel mileage than the 2008 version.

The 2004 Honda Pilot has power door locks, an anti-theft system, an anti-lock braking (ABS) system and driver, front side and passenger airbags. The 2008 version also has electronic brake assistance, traction and stability control, and side head curtain airbags, with electric parking aid standard for the EX-L with navigation system trims.

Each SUV is big enough for eight passengers. Standard features that can be found in the 2004 and 2008 Honda Pilot are air conditioning, cruise control, tachometer, tilt steering, AM/FM tuner with CD player, and a second- and third-row folding seat. The 2008 version has added features such as a tire inflation/pressure monitor and subwoofer; the SE and EX-L trims possesses even more features such as driver multi-adjustable power seats and sunroofs. Exclusive to the EX-L lineup are second-row sound controls and accessories, front heated seats and leather.

Both vehicles have rear spoilers, power windows and power-adjustable mirrors, interval and rear wipers and rear window defoggers. Automatic headlights and deep-tinted glass are standard on the 2008 SEs and the 2004/2008 EXs, with fog lights added to the latter. All trims for both SUVs come with the standard 16-inch alloy wheels, save for the LX and VP trims from 2004 and 2008, respectively; their wheels are made of steel.

It can cost up to twice as much to get a 2008 Honda Pilot rather than a 2004 one. However, the 2008 version generally has more features and is more likely to have less mileage. Either way, car critics and experts praise both vehicles as excellent purchases.

Valuation on a Car

According to the Bankrate, many factors affect the value of a car, with many brands of new cars losing up to 30 percent of their value as soon as they are purchased from a car dealer.

Bankrate explains some brands of car historically hold their value much longer than others. In the first three years after a car is sold it is possible for the value of a car to depreciate by 50 percent.

AutoBodyShopStop.com reports damage is the cause of lost value on a car in many cases. Cars that are well-maintained and in good condition have a greater value on the open market than a car in poor condition.

The value of a car is used for a variety of purposes including for resale and insurance purposes. AutoBodyShopStop.com reports the value of a car is calculated by an insurance appraiser following an accident to calculate whether a car should be repaired or not.

Sunday, August 21, 2016

How to Haggle for Used Cars

Many potential car buyers walk into a dealership and do not understand the price sticker on the vehicle and are intimated by the process of receiving a fair a price. One way to receive a fair price on a used vehicle is to haggle, or negotiate, with the seller. This process involves a back-and-forth between buyer and the seller until a price is agreed upon. Haggling for the price of the car also involves doing a little research before the buyer even sets foot into the dealership.

Instructions

Make a list of potential vehicles you may be interested in.

Research the vehicle by reading about it in The Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, two resources available free online which give estimated values for used vehicles.

Set a top price that you are willing to pay for the vehicle. Be firm and do not go above this number.

Make an offer lower than the vehicle's sticker price and the value that was taken from either Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds or a similar source. For instance, if the sticker price of the vehicle is $13,000, offer the dealership $11,500.

If the seller disagrees with your opening offer, continue to raise the price you are willing to pay in small increments, such as one hundred or two hundred dollars at a time. Remember not to go over the limit you set for yourself.

If you can't agree on a price, do not hesitate to walk away and try again with another seller.

Nissan Versa Vs. Yaris in Gas Mileage

People looking to purchase a modestly priced, fuel-efficient vehicle often compare the Nissan Versa and the Toyota Yaris. These vehicles are very similar to each other and offer a wide array desirable options. The different body styles available from Nissan and Toyota make these cars even easier to like, and the gas mileage ratings make them cheap to drive.

The Nissan Versa and the Toyota Yaris are both small, inexpensive vehicles with several desirable qualities. Both vehicles are available in two-door hatchback versions and four-door sedan models.

Considered to be each other's main competition, the Versa and the Yaris share multiple features, making comparison shopping extremely easy. Both Nissan and Toyota have made some attempts over the past few years to distinguish their vehicle from the competition by adding some impressive features that may not be expected on such inexpensive models. However, Toyota fell behind the competition with the release of the 2010 Yaris. Unlike the 2010 Nissan Versa, the Toyota Yaris does not have a touchscreen GPS navigation system, nor an audio system equipped to handle MP3 players and iPods.

The main purpose of purchasing either the Nissan Versa or the Toyota Yaris should be the acquisition of a reasonably priced, good-quality vehicle that will not destroy the environment and will not cost a small fortune to drive or maintain. Both the Versa and the Yaris fit these criteria.

The Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris offer better-than-average gas mileage. The 2010 Versa is rated at 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The 2010 Yaris is rated at 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Both vehicles provide the benefit of impressive gas mileage ratings.

When you compare the Nissan Versa with the Toyota Yaris, there are only a few minor differences. Both vehicles are available in nearly identical body styles, and the compact design makes them simple to drive and park in even the most crowded city environments.

Tips on Women Buying Used Cars

Buying a used car may seem scary. You want to avoid accidentally purchasing a "lemon," or a defective car, yet still find a good deal and select the right car for your needs. And women may feel even more nervous when dealing with an individual seller, trying to negotiate a deal or worrying that their lack of automobile knowledge will hinder them.

Before setting out to buy a used car, decide what kind of car you want. Popular types of cars include sedans, sports cars, mini-vans and SUVs. Decide what age range you wish to look for. Cars that are 10 years old are typically cheaper than cars that are five years old; but older cars are more likely to need extra work. The car-buying guide Samarins recommends never buying a used car more than 10 to 12 years old.

Research the appropriate price range for the models and year of your desired car. Check any and all online listings as well as online or print classified ads. Establish the price range you feel comfortable with. If you discover that the model you desire is priced from $5,000 to $6,000, then don't offer more than $6,000. Try to purchase a car from a listing with a fair price, rather than attempting to haggle with a seller. Some people consider women "suckers" because women tend to know less about automobiles and tend to spend less time negotiating prices.

Check the history report for a specific car before you purchase it. This report includes information about flood damage, whether the vehicle is a lemon, any accidents and specific vehicle use. Online sources, such as Car Fax sell history reports, while other sites provide a bulk discount that allows you to buy several reports for a few dollars more than a single report. Ordering a history report requires a vehicle's "Vehicle Identification Number" (VIN).

Avoid possible risks to your safety by establishing intelligent safety guidelines. Always call car sellers before visiting their home. Don't enter the house of a seller who makes uncomfortable. Avoid shopping for cars in unfamiliar or unsafe neighborhoods. Limit your shopping to daytime hours. For additional safety, take a friend.

How to Upgrade From an Acura CL to LS

The Acura CL is a two door coupe car that is no longer being manufactured. It was available from 1997 through 1999 and from 2001 through 2003. While Acura does not have a model simply named LS as of December 2010, the Acura Legend was available in a LS edition. The Acura Legend LS was available for purchase as a new vehicle from 1990 to 2000. It was also a two door coupe car, but with a slightly sportier style. If you have an Acura CL, you can easily upgrade to a Acura Legend LS car.

Instructions

Use a used car sales website (see Resources) to find Acura Legend LS cars that are available for sale in your local area. If you want to trade in your Acura CL, you should focus on ads from car lots instead of individuals. If you plan on selling your Acura CL on your own or just not trading it in, you can also look at ads from individuals.

Contact the sellers you find in the car sale ads. Usually the ad will have a phone number or email address for you to use. When you make contact, set up an appointment to go look at the Acura Legend LS and take it for a test drive.

Apply for a car loan at your local bank or another area financial institution, if you need to finance the vehicle that you have found. If you already have the money, you can simply get an official check from your bank, which you can use to pay for the car.

Pay for your new Acura Legend LS. If you are trading in your Acura CL, you must sign the title and give it to the dealer as well. If you are buying from an individual, you will also need to complete a bill of sale, which should be provided by the seller.

Specs for a 2007 Dodge Nitro

The Dodge Nitro is an entry-level compact sport utility vehicle patterned after the Jeep Liberty. Chrysler manufactures both vehicles. The 2007 Nitro came in three trim options: the base SXT, the mid-range SLT and the performance R/T. Prices in 2007 ranged from $19,000 to $26,000, depending on options. The base engine was a 3.5-liter V-6, with a 4-liter version available as an option. The 4-liter V-6 became standard equipment in 2011.

The base 3.7-liter (225.8 cubic inches) V-6 powered the 2007 Dodge Nitro. It generated 210 horsepower and 235 foot-pounds of torque. The bore measured 3.66 inches and the stroke was 2.31 inches. The compression ratio was 9.6-to-1. The optional 4-liter (241.2 cubic inches) V-6 developed 255 horsepower and 275 foot-pounds of torque. Its bore was 3.78 inches and the stroke 3.58 inches, with a relatively high 10.3-to-1 compression ratio. The 3.7-liter version featured a cast iron block and aluminum heads, while the 4-liter V-6 had a molded aluminum block and aluminum heads. A six-speed manual transmission was standard equipment on 2007 Nitros equipped with the 3.7-liter engine, and a four-speed automatic was optional. A five-speed automatic was standard on Nitros equipped with the 4-liter V-6. The car's capacities when equipped with an automatic transmission were rather modest: a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and maximum payload of 1,150 pounds. The 3.7-liter Nitro earned 24 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in the city.

The 2007 Dodge Nitro's wheelbase was 108.8 inches and the overall length was 178.9 inches. It stood 69.9 inches tall and 73.1 inches wide. Its turning radius curb-to-curb was 36.3 feet. Inside the Nitro, the front headroom was 40.6 inches and the front legroom was 40.8 inches. The rear headroom was 40.8 inches and the rear legroom was 37.7 inches. The cargo capacity with the rear seat folded down was 65.2 cubic feet, and 32.1 cubic feet with the rear seat upright. Chrysler rated its curbside weight at a rather hefty 5,600 pounds.

The Nitro's front suspension consisted of upper and lower A-arms, stabilizer bar and gas-charged shock absorbers. The rear suspension featured upper and lower trailing arms, coil springs, a live axle, stabilizer and gas-charged shocks. All-wheel disc brakes provided the stopping power with 11.9-inch vented discs in the front and 12.44-inches discs in the rear. The 2007 models were offered as two- and four-wheel-drive models.

The 2007 model was equipped with 12-volt power outlets in the front and in the cargo area, a six-speaker audio system with CD player and MP3 adaptability, driver side and front passenger airbags, front bucket seats, three-point seat belts, remote door locks and tachometer. The interior also featured alloy accents on the dashboard.

How to Verify the VIN on an Old Honda Motorcycle

Before you buy a used Honda motorcycle, you should verify the vehicle identification number (VIN) associated with the bike. This information can be obtained from the seller, or from the bike itself when you inspect it. The VIN is the key to a vehicle's history, but stolen or fraudulent Honda motorcycles will not have a VIN that accurately reports the vehicle's history. Verify the VIN by comparing the numbers against the correct Honda formatting of VINs, and comparing the VIN against the appropriate state's records.

Instructions

Obtain the 17-character VIN from the motorcycle seller or from the motorcycle itself. The VIN is located in different places on different motorcycles, but will likely be located on both the right side of the frame near the steering stem, and on the back right edge of the rear engine case.

Verify that the first character of the VIN matches the supposed location of the motorcycle's manufacture. A 1 or 4 means the motorcycle was manufactured in the United States, a 2 means Canada, 3 means Mexico, J means Japan, K means Korea, S means England, W means Germany and Z means Italy. Any other number or letter means that the motorcycle was manufactured in a country that does not host a Honda motorcycle manufacturing plant, meaning the VIN is fraudulent.

Ensure that the second character is the letter H. This position refers to the vehicle's manufacturer, and H is the character for Honda vehicles. If the second character is different, it is likely that the VIN number was stolen from another vehicle.

Inspect the 10th character of the VIN, which should match the model year of the Honda motorcycle. The code starts at number 1, which designates manufacture in the year 1971, and continues sequentially until 9 in the year 1979. The codes then start with the letter A in 1980, and continue through the alphabet (omitting I, O, Q, U and Z) until ending at Y in the year 2000. The characters then revert to numbers, starting with 1 in 2001 and continuing to 9 in 2009, and which point the character returns to a letter again with A representing 2010.

Record the motorcycle's VIN, and contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the state in which the motorcycle is supposedly registered. See Resources for a list of contact information. Report the VIN to the DMV and ask for the make and model of the vehicle associated with the VIN. The make and model should match the Honda motorcycle, and there should be no reports of theft associated with the VIN.

The Advantages of Gearboxes With Clutches

The decision between a manual or automatic gearbox goes a long way toward determining what skills a driver needs and how much control a driver has over the car. Instead of a clutch, automatic transmissions use clutch packs, which allow the transmission to shift automatically without any input from the driver. A manual transmissions features a driver-controlled clutch in the form of a pedal to the left of the standard gas and brake pedals. This lets the driver disengage the transmission and select gears as needed for driving conditions.

A gearbox with a clutch gives you greater control of your vehicle. By depressing the clutch pedal you disengage the engine, which allows your vehicle to coast under its own momentum. This is useful for coming to a smooth stop or driving downhill without the need to upshift abruptly. You can also select a lower gear for more horsepower at a higher engine rpm, such as when driving up hill or accelerating to pass a car on the highway. You control which gear the transmission is in, and precisely when gear shifts occur.

Cars with automatic transmissions automatically upshift as you drive down a hill or coast to a stop. However, with a clutch you can engage the engine in a lower gear and allow the drivetrain to actually slow your car. This reduces the need to use your brakes and can be especially useful during long downhill stretches of road that might cause brakes to overheat due to constant friction.

A manual transmission uses fewer and simpler components than an automatic. Even with the clutch and corresponding linkage, a gearbox with a clutch has fewer complex parts and is, in general, less likely to fail. Manual gearboxes can last the life of a car with no more service than an occasional oil change to keep the gears lubricated properly. This also saves money in production and repair costs.

Drivers who use a gearbox with a clutch can select the appropriate gear for maximum power, or better fuel efficiency. Driving in a lower gear, or starting in first gear and slowly progressing through the gears as you accelerate, requires less fuel. Coasting to a stop by depressing the clutch lets you cover much more ground without pressing the gas pedal than would be possible in a car with an automatic transmission (where the permanent linkage between the engine and the rest of the drivetrain slows the car more quickly).

Saturday, August 20, 2016

The History of Kia Sephia

Kia produced the subcompact Sephia four-door sedan and five-door hatchback under many names throughout its production run from 1992 to 2001. In addition to Sephia, Kia badged it the Mentor, Timor, Shuma and ultimately the Spectra. It kept the Sephia badge until 2000. Kia then produced the Sephia with the Spectra before the automaker phased out the Sephia in 2001.

The South Korea-based Kia couldnt have arrived at a worse time in 1992. Korean automakers thanks largely to the late 1980s poor quality Hyundai had a poor reputation for producing substandard cars. Hyundai righted itself and went on to manufacture well-made imports to North America with a strong warranty, but South Korean automakers had a substantial hill to climb. Initially, Kia used components from Mazda and Ford. In fact, Mazda parts made up a large bulk of the initial Kia offerings. Although there was a market for cheap, durable cars, Kia had a thin dealer network in North America, starting with dealers in only 11 states in 1993. It took until about 1995 before Kia could effectively compete with Honda, Toyota and Nissan with enough dealers nationwide to sell cars on a mass scale.

By 1995, the Kia Sephia was available in three trim options: the base LS, mid-level RS and the upscale GS. Power options featured a 1.6- or 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Kia designed the Sephia to compete against the Hyundai Elantra and Ford Escort. Its base 1.6-liter engine generated just 88 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission complemented the engine. There were no airbags or anti-lock brake system. It featured a conventional front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive with the frame placed on a short 98.4-inch wheelbase and overall body length measuring 170.7 inches.

By the 1998 model year, Kia completely redesigned the Sephia to feature a more streamlined body and better integrated headlamps into the front end. Kia also produced most of its own parts. It started coming out of its shell as a no-frills cheap ride to something that offered a bit more power and modest prestige. It also became a front-wheel drive car. The LS trim level was now top-of-the-line and came with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder delivering 125 horsepower. Power steering remote trunk release, tachometer, 60/40 folding rear seat, passenger-side vanity mirror and bodyside molding were standard equipment.

Kia phased out the Sephia in 2001, although its replacement, the Spectra, was simply a renamed Sephia. By the end of its production run, the Sephia featured all the amenities found on the leading Japanese imports: bucket seats, center console, power brakes, tinted glass and the 125-horsepower, 1.8-liter, 16-valve fuel-injected engine. In its last model year of 2001, its base 1.6-liter engine generated 100 horsepower. Kia also replaced the 13-inch wheels with 14-inchers. Options included a four-speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels, rear spoiler, AM/FM/CD audio system, power steering and air-conditioning. The wheelbase grew to 100.8 inches and its length measured in 2000 at 174.4 inches.

1992 Ford Mustang Specifications

The 1992 Mustang was at a low ebb, as sales were lower than they had been in a decade. This was near the end of the third generation of Mustang, and a new generation and design, beginning in 1994, would rescue the Mustang. Even with poor numbers, the Mustang was still fairly popular and had good reviews. The 1992 Mustang was available as a sedan, a hatchback or as a convertible.

Regardless of the model of Mustang, there are two engine choices and they are very different. For the economically minded, there is a 105 horsepower, 2.3-liter, four cylinder. For the performance minded, there iss a 225 horsepower, 5.0-liter V8.

The 2.3-liter engine has an overhead cam power plant with indirect fuel injection into two valves per cylinder. The 140 cubic inch engine has 135 foot-pounds of torque, or pulling power. The fuel and air mixture is compressed to a 9.5 to 1 ratio before ignition. To process that power, the bore and stroke, size of the piston and the distance it travels, is 3.781 and 3.126 inches.

The V8, with 301 cubic inches, has 300 foot-pounds of torque. It has the same fuel injection system, and the fuel and air mixture is compressed to a 9 to 1 ratio. The bore and stroke is four and three inches.

A five-speed manual transmission has standard with the 5.0-engine, and a four-speed automatic is standard on the 2.3 liter. In most cases people could mix and match engines and transmissions with models as they liked. Both transmissions offer overdrive.

The 5.0 Mustang has an anti-roll bar standard, optional on the 2.3. Power steering is standard on both. The car rides on 195/75R14 tires. All of the mustangs have a 15.4-gallon gas tank.

The 1992 Mustang remains unchanged from recent years as far as size and basic dimensions. It still has a 100-inch wheelbase. All of the Mustangs are 179.6 inches long, 68.3 inches wide and 52 inches tall. Curb weight, or the car completely empty, ranges from 2,700 to 3,100 lbs.

The four-cylinder was small, but it packed some punch. It has a top-speed rating of 107 miles per hour. It's zero to 60 mph time is a slow 12.2 seconds, but its quarter mile time is a respectable 18.7 seconds. The car is rated at 19 mpg in city driving and 28 mpg on the highway.

The 5.0-liter, V-8 engine makes for a much stronger vehicle. The car's top speed is rated at 134 miles per hour. It can get to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds and can complete the quarter mile in 15.5 seconds.

Its gas mileage ranges from 15 in the city to 23 on the highway.

Friday, August 19, 2016

Vehicle Lease Options

Besides paying cash or financing a car purchase, leasing is another option to get into a new car. With a lease you pay for the depreciation of the car for the time you use it plus an interest charge. Leases are attractive for individuals who like to get a new car every few years. Leases have some flexibility, so pick the options that fit your driving lifestyle.

Vehicle leases are typically available with terms of 24 to 48 months. A longer term will result in a lower monthly lease payment, but pick a term that fits with your usual trade cycle. It can be quite expensive to get out of a lease early, so if you trade every three years get a 36-month lease. Also, it is a good idea to pick a term that is less than or equal to the length of the vehicle comprehensive warranty.

Vehicle leases include a limit on the amount of miles the vehicle can be driven. Exceeding the contract mileage will result in an excess mileage penalty when the lease terminates. If you know you will drive more than the contract miles, purchase extra mileage up front. Most lease contracts allow a total of up to 100,000 miles on the contract. The cost of buying miles up front is much lower than the excess penalty rate and is included in the monthly lease payments. Some lease contracts will even give a credit back if you do not drive all of the excess miles purchased.

Gap insurance pays the difference between the lease payoff value and the amount the insurance pays if the car is totaled in an accident. Some leases include gap insurance as part of the contract. Find out if it is included. If not, buy gap insurance from the dealership and have the cost included in the payment.

The capitalized cost on a lease contract is equivalent to the purchase price when buying a car. Like any purchase, this cost is negotiable, so make sure the dealer give you the best price possible. Make sure the price is discounted before any cap cost reduction or down payment you make toward the lease.

Cap cost reduction is cash you put toward reducing the cost of the lease contract and lowering the monthly payment. A lease is not an ownership, and any money put as a down payment only affects the payment and not the termination values of the lease contract.

Thursday, August 18, 2016

Toyota Vs. GM

Toyota and General Motors rank among the largest automakers in the world today. Their long lists of models and brands are sold in numerous countries as both companies work toward new technological innovations that will define the future of driving.

General Motors was founded in 1908 in Detroit. Within a year of beginning operations it had acquired several brands including Buick, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac. Since each of these brands already had its own model line, GM vehicles were numerous and diverse from the very beginning. In 1911, GM manager William Durant left to begin a new company, Chevrolet. By 1916 Chevy was also under GM control and General Motors became one of the three major American automakers, along with Ford and Chrysler.

Toyoda Motor Corporation was founded in 1933. It was originally a division of Japanese industrial giant Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, which had been named for its founder, Kiichiro Toyoda. In the 1930s the spelling of the name was changed to "Toyota" as the company produced its first car: a sedan known as the A1. In 1937 the Toyota Motor Co. became an independent company that produced several automobiles, including the A1 as well as a G1 pickup truck. Toyota began selling cars in the United States in 1957, becoming the first Japanese automaker to do so.

Totoya sells most of its cars today under the Toyota name, including the popular Camry and the up-market Avalon. Toyota also owns European luxury brand Lexus, as well as the Scion division which produces several inexpensive models aimed at first-time car buyers.

Following its 2009 bankruptcy restructuring, GM has shed several iconic brands including Hummer, Saab, Saturn, and Pontiac. Currently GM includes four divisions: Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, and the GMC truck line. Among these, Chevrolet has the most diverse vehicle lineup, including the entry-level Aveo, three different pickup trucks, and the Camaro and Corvette sports cars.

Both Toyota and GM have devoted extensive resources as of late to the development of new technologies. These include production cars such as gasoline-electric hybrids like Toyota's Prius, Camry, and Highlander and GM's Cobalt, Malibu, and Tahoe. Each company has more advanced prototypes, as in Chevy's all-electric Volt and Toyota's line of Fine hydrogen fuel-cell concept cars and the FT electric vehicle prototypes. While some of these models are not intended for production, they ensure that GM and Totoya will continue to be major players in the next generation of automobiles.

Since 2007 Toyota has ranked first in the world in annual sales, while GM retains the second place position. The year 2009 marked not only a turning point in auto sales trends, but also for the global economy, which was soon to suffer a recession that hit the auto industry particularly hard. GM emerged from bankruptcy in mid-2009 and began a rebuilding effort focused on scaling back to its core brands. Toyota, meanwhile, has continued to generate excitement with its Prius hybrid and an ever-growing list of concept cars that point toward even more model offerings in the near future.

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Disadvantages of Hybrid Car Batteries

Hybrid cars have many advantages. They use less gas, thus releasing lower amounts of carbon monoxide into the air. They also lessen our dependence on oil. People in the United States who buy a new hybrid are eligible for a hefty tax credit. There are some disadvantages to hybrid cars, however, including some issues with the batteries.

Some hybrid car batteries are constructed of metal hydrides which use very high voltages. This level of voltage could electrocute people in a collision if the battery wires become exposed.

Older hybrid models use batteries that require recharging at least every two weeks can be inconvenient.

Another disadvantage of hybrid car batteries is they may need replacing after 150,000 to 200,000 miles. This is much less frequent than for a standard car battery, but hybrid car batteries also are much more expensive, running up to $3000 as of 2009.

Some hybrid car batteries do not work as efficiently in cold weather, so the hybrid car owner does not save much on gas in these conditions.

Drivers looking for high-performance speed will not want a hybrid. The heavy batteries add excess weight to the car, and the cars have a smaller internal combustion engine to maximize efficiency.

How to Bid on a Garbage Truck

Whatever your need for a garbage truck, you can go online to bid for that best suits your needs. Asset Auctions allows you to search for sanitation trucks and parts for auction. After registering with Asset Auctions, you can place a bid on the desired garbage truck. Bidding for a garbage truck at an auction enables you to possibly win the bid and buy the truck at a lower price.

Instructions

Navigate to the Asset Auctions website. (see Resources)

Click on "Register Now" to create a new account. Open the activation email sent to you. Click on the link within the email to register your account.

Click "Login" to enter to your account. Use the email address you supplied upon registration and enter a password.

Click on "Garbage & Sanitation Trucks."

Look for the sanitation truck that fits your needs and place a bid by entering a dollar amount in the "BID" box on the right hand side of the posting. Click "Place Max Bid" to place your bid. Wait for the auction to end, bidding again if necessary. Payment and delivery instructions for the truck will be detailed in your bid.

How to Get a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin

The Manufacturer's Statement of Origin, sometimes called the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin, is a certification of a brand new vehicle by the manufacturer of the vehicle. It is required in some states in order to register your new vehicle with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). However, it is not a federal requirement, so you should first determine if your state requires it by contacting your local DMV office.

Instructions

Ask the car dealership for a copy of the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin before leaving the sale if you buy the car in person and in your own state.

Purchasing a new vehicle from a state other than your own may mean that you have to ask for the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin to be sent to you.

Contact the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) if you are not purchasing a vehicle but are instead considering manufacturing a new motor vehicle.

New Car Pricing Information

You can find new car pricing at various on-line locations. Some websites contain information for one car manufacturer, while others provide information for all. The most complete websites include car prices, as well as dealer invoice pricing, helping you negotiate a better deal with a salesperson.

Auto manufacturers usually include base prices for their cars in print ads. This requires a visit to an auto dealership to obtain option and delivery pricing information.

Now it is possible to obtain new car pricing on-line from manufacturers and independent third party websites that exist outside of manufacturer and dealership-owned websites.

The power of having new car pricing or dealer invoice pricing before you enter the car dealership is that it places you in control of the car buying experience. You can control the amount of time you spend at each dealership and prevent salesmanship from influencing your decision.

Once you have limited your car choices to two or three models, you can visit one of several independent third-party websites (See References section for links) for dealer invoice information.

However, the dealer invoice price does not indicate what the dealer actually paid the manufacturer for the car. One website (ConsumerReports.org) will even help you determine the car dealer's actual cost for a fee.

The car salesman may dispute your invoice or actual cost prices. She may state that the prices are incorrect and she has the newest, higher, prices. Calmly tell him that you have had other dealerships accept these prices. This will usually work or you can visit another, more reputable dealership.

Tuesday, August 16, 2016

1986 Nissan 300ZZ Non Turbo Specifications

Two years after Nissan purchased Datsun and 52 years after the 50th anniversary of the production of the first Datsun automobile, the 1986 Nissan 300 ZX was introduced. The 1986 version was given an updated body style which included the addition of side skirts, a plastic spoiler and an interior third brake light. The 1986 model was also the first year that a removable T-top roof was offered as an option.

The 1986 non-turbo 300 ZX was equipped with a six-cylinder, 160-horsepower, 3.0-liter engine. It ran at a maximum of 5,200 rpm and produced 174 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. It had a horsepower to weight ratio of 19.6 pounds per horsepower and a compression ratio of 9:0-to-1.

The original manufacturers suggested retail price on the 1986 300 ZX ranged from $17,250 to $19,700, depending on the options. The 300 ZX had a fuel-injected engine that ran on unleaded gasoline. The engine block was made of cast iron and the cylinder heads were aluminum.

The 1986 300 ZX had a gross weight of 3,140 lbs. It included a manual five speed transmission and was a rear-wheel-drive vehicle.

Monday, August 15, 2016

1995 Passat VR6 Information

The 1995 Volkswagen Passat VR6 belonged to the third-generation Passats that began production in 1973. The 1995 Passat was a mid-size car that came as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback wagon. The car came with the uniquely configured VR6 six-cylinder engine that was somewhat a cross between a V-6 and an in-line six-cylinder engine to keep the size under 3.0 liters. The third-generation Passats represented a departure from VW's traditional boxy styling to a more aerodynamic body.

The VR6 six-cylinder engine featured a single head for a staggered bank of cylinders. The engine was similar to a V-6 with cylinder two cylinder banks, but the VR6 cylinder banks were offset and tilted away from each other. It was a similar configuration to the Italian-made Lancia Fulvia four-cylinder models from the 1950s. The setup took up less space in the engine compartment with the VR6 displacing 2.8 liters. Its bore was 3.23 inches and the stroke measured 3.54 inches. The compression ratio was rated at 10-to-1 to help generate 172 horsepower. Buyers could order a four-speed automatic or the optional five-speed manual to match the engine. With the manual transmission, the Passat earned 18 mpg in the city and 25 on the open road. Its top speed was 139 mph.

The 1995 Passat could seat up to five people. It sat on a 103.3-inch wheelbase. The body was 181.5 inches long, 56.4 inches tall and 67.5 inches wide. The front tread width measured 58.4 inches, and the rear tread width was 56.2 inches. Inside the cabin, the front headroom was 39.3 inches and the rear headroom was 36.6 inches. The front and rear legroom was 45.1 inches and 37 inches respectively. The front and rear shoulder room was 55 inches sand 54 inches respectively. The Passat weighed in at 3,197 lbs. with an automatic transmission and 3,140 lbs. with the manual. The curb-to-curb turning radius measured 38.4 feet. The gas tank held 18.5 gallons.

The chassis came with a rack and pinion steering system. The front suspension was an independent system with MacPherson struts and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension system had semi-trailing arms and an anti-roll bar. The car also had traction control.

The 1995 models featured as standard equipment bucket seats, power heated mirrors, fog lamps, power brakes and steering, power windows and locks, 15-inch alloy wheels, tachometer, all-wheel ABS, anti-theft alarm, cloth seats, leather-accented gear shift knob and steering wheel, air conditioning and rear spoiler. Optional equipment included a compact disc changer for the AM/FM/CD audio system, heated front seats, power moonroof and leather seats.

Thursday, August 11, 2016

2009 Hyundai Tucson Colors

The Hyundai Tucson for 2009 has a newly designed front grille, and a redesigned rear tailgate. It also features new alloy wheel designs. The 2009 Tucson has a Kelley Blue Book value of $19,250 and comes in seven different exterior colors and two interior color choices.

Normally the car manufacturer will have a good idea as to how many cars to produce with a particular shade. The exterior color will often determine what the interior color will be. Charcoal, which Hyundai calls Dark Titanium Gray, is the most popular exterior color for '09. The Tucson interior is available in two colors, beige and gray. Seats are leather with the added comfort of being heated.

The '09 Hyundai Tucson comes in seven exterior colors. Mesa Red, Desert Sage, which happens to be a lighter shade of gray, and Dark Titanium Gray. This color can also be described as charcoal. Another exterior color choice is Nautical Blue, which is a darker shade of ocean blue. The Tucson exterior also comes in Platinum, Obsidian Black and Alpine Frost, which is a mix between Nautical Blue and Platinum.

Each 2009 Hyundai Tucson comes with a seven-year unlimited mile rust warranty. The basic vehicle warranty is five years and 60,000 miles. A warranty of 10 years, 100,000 miles comes standard for the vehicle's drive train. Roadside assistance is also available with the Tucson for five years with unlimited miles.

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

How to Compare Different Minivans

Choosing a minivan takes a lot of consideration, especially for a large family. You have to balance room for everyone with the features that you most desire in your vehicle.

The most important factor with a minivan is how many people it seats and how those people will be seated. A van that advertises a seven-passenger seating arrangement may not really hold that many people if all of the backseat passengers are in infant or toddler car seats.

Six-cylinder engines are standard on many vans, although you might be able to buy one with just four cylinders. To increase fuel efficiency, choose a minivan that incorporates hybrid or flex-fuel technology.

Features to consider when comparing minivans include under-seat storage, tables, swivel chairs, power sliding doors and power window shades. How many people you have in your vehicle, their ages and how you drive your vehicle will all play a role in which nonstandard features you need. For example, a family that travels in the van will have more of a need for tables and swivel seats than those who use their van for commuting only.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016

What Is a Bill of Sale for Used Cars?

A bill of sale is a legal document made by a seller to a buyer. It is most commonly associated with used car transactions.

Usually a bill of sale contains the following: the date of purchase, location of purchase, value of purchase and names of seller and buyer.

In order to register the vehicle you bought at your local DMV (Department of Vehicles) office, you need a bill of sale. Also, you need a document to verify you are the legal owner, and to determine the sales tax, which is based on your jurisdiction.

Every state has a bill of sale. It can be obtained by going to your local DMV office or downloading one online.

A bill of sale is not just restricted to used car transactions. It can also be used for other kinds of used vehicles, such as a motorcycle or boat.

The bill of sale acts as written evidence of the transfer of property from one person to the other--in this case, from the seller to the buyer.

Monday, August 8, 2016

Car Salesman Techniques

Whether you're buying a new or a used car or selling a car, it's very helpful to understand how the business side of selling cars often works. Car salesmen tend to have an unfavorable reputation and while many car salesmen don't look the part of the tricky used-car salesman, many of them use the same techniques to sell cars. It's important to know that almost all car salesmen make their living off a commission on the cars they sell.

One of the main techniques for a car salesman is having a certain attitude to sell cars. Being assertive, confident and competent, and having a competitive drive are characteristics that most car salesmen have and utilize to sell cars. Selling cars is very competitive and so car salesmen must have drive to succeed. Not giving up often leads to more sales, but it is something a customer should be aware of when buying a car.

Knowledge is important when selling cars. Knowing information about the model of a car that is being sold is vital. General car knowledge will also be helpful in pointing out advantages of a specific car.

Whether you're dealing with a less-than-honest car dealer or not, almost all car salesmen play with the numbers. The salesman's technique here is to make buyers feel comfortable with the amount of money they are spending and the payments they will have. The price for the car, the trade-in price, the amount and percentage for financing all can be manipulated to make the buyer happy with a number that will avoid lowering the profit that the car salesman will get.

How to Obtain Free Car History Information on Used Vehicles

Getting a free used car history report on a pre owhed vehicle is not as difficult as it used to be. There's so much free information available on the internet that it doesn't make sense to pay for a car history report. All it takes is knowing where to go, who to ask and how to negotiate. It's time to take advantage of how easy the internet has made it to obtain free history information on pre-owned vehicle.

Instructions

Determine whether or not the vehicle was reported as a non recovered stolen vehicle or insurance company salvage. A vehicle fitting either of these scenarios is a used car not worth purchasing. As the owner of a salvaged car, you are asking for mechanical trouble and expensive vehicle repair. As far as stolen vehicles go, there's no need to explain the ramifications of driving a stolen vehicle.

Visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau website which provides free stolen/salvage vehicle information. All you have to do is insert the vehicle identification number (VIN) in the space provided and the VINcheck system will tell you if the vehicle is listed in their database. Be aware, however, that there is a 5 vehicle per 24 hour limitation.

Pay a visit to the Department of Motor Vehicle website. Armed with the VIN number, the DMV can provide information such as name of the legal owner and number of liens (if any) on the vehicle.

Negotiate a free CARFAX history report with the used car dealer. To do this, be sure the dealer is a member of the CARFAX Dealer online program. To find out whether or not a dealer is a member of the program, visit the carfaxonline.com website and insert the zip code of the area in which you are searching. It will display a listing of member dealers in your area. Put on your negotiating hat and negotiate a free CARFAX history report as part of the deal to purchase the car from the dealership. A dealer would rather forfeit a free CARFAX report than the sale of a vehicle.

Sunday, August 7, 2016

Chrysler Crossfire Specs

The 2008 Chrysler Crossfire rolled off the assembly line in 2007. It was also the last Crossfire on the Chrysler product line. Chrysler built the sports car in two models: Coupe Limited and Roadster Limited. The manufacturer offered the Crossfire in seven different color options. When comparing the sports car, review the Chrysler Crossfire specifications.

The 2008 Chrysler Crossfire comes standard with a 3.2-liter V6 18-valve engine and a six-speed manual overdrive transmission. The engine outputs 215 horsepower at 5,700 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 229 ft.-lb. of torque at 229 horsepower at 3,000 rpm. The sports car get up to 19 miles per gallons (mpg) in the city and up to 25 mpg on the highway.

The 2008 Crossfire Coupe weights 3,061 lbs. and the Crossfire Roadster weighs 3,140 lbs. The vehicles offer ground clearance of 4.90 inches. Both models measure 159.80 inches long, 69.50 inches wide and 51.50 inches high with a 94.50-inch wheelbase. The front track is 58.80 inches and the rear track is 59.10 inches.

The Crossfire accommodates two people. It has 36.90 inches of headroom, 42.70 inches of legroom, 52.7 inches of shoulder room and 53.3 inches of hip space. The fuel tanks holds 15.90 gallons of gas.

The sports car has a 32.20-foot turning diameter. It includes a recirculating power steering. The Crossfire features independent front and rear suspension. The vehicle comes with 225/40R18 tires.

Saturday, August 6, 2016

Scooter Buying Guide

With the price of gas rising on a seemingly daily basis, just about everyone is looking for more fuel efficient transportation. This is one of the reasons that scooters have recently gained in popularity. Here are a few of the things you should keep in mind when looking for a new scooter.

There are more than 1,000 brands of scooters, so you will definitely have to do your research. Decide if you want something from a familiar name like Honda, Suzuki or Vespa, or if you are willing to go with a lesser-known brand to save money.

Scooters with gas-powered engines have traditionally been more popular. But as gas prices have risen and battery technology has improved, electric scooters have grown in demand because of their low emissions and low maintenance costs.

How much power will you need with your scooter? Will you need to go up lots of hills? Will you need to be able to accelerate through intersections? These are things to consider when looking for a particular scooter.

Know that the company that manufactured your scooter believes in its product. Some scooter makers offer as little as a 60-day warranty. Beware of shoddy manufacturers. Do your research.

Consider the cost of the scooter. It goes beyond the selling price of the vehicle. Take into account the cost of gas (if applicable), insurance and maintenance.

Most scooters are sold at brick-and- mortar locations where you can see and touch the vehicle to get a good feel for it. However, there are plenty of places online where you can buy the scooter, but keep in mind that there could be additional shipping costs.

Friday, August 5, 2016

Ford Focus ST Vs. Volkswagen Golf GTI

The VW GTI is the original "hot hatch," a phrase that refers to the fact that it is a high-performance hatchback that combines practicality with fun. The first GTI was introduced in Europe in 1976 and was brought to the U.S. in 1984 as the Rabbit GTI. Since then, there have been plenty of competitors designed to take on the GTI. In fact, the hot hatch segment is one the most hotly contested. Currently, Ford makes one of the Volkswagen GTI's closest competitors with with the Focus ST. Unfortunately, this European-built car is not available for U.S. enthusiasts to buy, since Ford has decided not to import it.

The Volkswagen GTI is powered by a turbocharged, intercooled, 2.0-liter engine that produces 210 horsepower at 5,300 rpm. The motor's torque output is plentiful, with 207 pounds available as early as 1,700 rpm. The GTI's engine block is cast iron. It also features direct fuel injection.
The Focus ST is also powered by a turbocharged motor, though it displaces more space with a 2.5-liter, Volvo sourced inline-5 that produces 222 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 236 pounds of torque as early as 1,600 rpm.

Both the VW GTI and the Focus ST are available as three- or five-door hatchbacks. Both the GTI and the Focus ST received face-lifts for the 2009 model year. Both models can be ordered with optional larger 18-inch alloy wheels.

The GTI comes with either a conventional 6-speed transmission or the optional DSG paddle shift gearbox. The Focus ST comes only with a conventional 6-speed manual transmission.

The GTI weighs 2,900 lbs while the Focus is a bit heavier at 3,200 lbs.

According to VW, the GTI goes from zero to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and tops out at 149 mph. The Focus ST just barely bests these figures with a zero to 62 time of 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph.

The GTI has a combined fuel economy rating of 32 mpg while the Focus is rated with a combined fuel economy of 30.4 mpg.

Thursday, August 4, 2016

How to Buy a New GM Truck

General Motors makes a full line of pickups under both the Chevrolet and GMC brands. Its vehicles come with an assortment of options and packages to suit just about any buyer. Whether you need a new truck for your job or just feel good driving one, buying a new GM truck doesn't have to be difficult. If you stay patient and don't rush your decision, you'll find one that meets your needs without hurting yourself financially.

Instructions

Set a budget for how much you can afford to spend on a truck before you start looking at specific vehicles. This way, you'll be less inclined to overspend.

Make a list of features that are important to you in a truck. This could include things such as the size of the truck, bed capacity, safety and towing ability.

Visit the GM truck Web site. Rule out the trucks that don't fit your budget. GM trucks have a broad price range, from the 2010 Chevy Colorado that starts at $16,985, to the 2010 Chevy Silverado Hybrid that starts at $38,340. Then view information on each vehicle within your budget to see which ones have the features you want.

Visit your local GM dealership, already knowing the one or two trucks that fit what you are looking for. This puts you in a stronger position with the dealer than if you had no idea about what interests you.

Test drive each truck you are interested in. Drive each as if it belonged to you. A quick, slow ride up and down the street might be easier for the dealer, but it won't show you what it's actually like to drive the truck.

When you are ready to buy, set up the right payment plan for you. Ask any financing-related questions you have before signing any contract.

1997 Ford F250 Specifications

The 1997 Ford F-250 is a medium-duty pickup truck that is part of the F-series line of trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company. The F-series was introduced in 1948. The F-250 is a model that is more heavy duty than the F-150, but lighter than the F-350. A new appearance and improvements originally reserved for the F-150 were extended to the F-250 in 1997.

The beginning of the 1997 model year saw changes to the F-250. The truck now featured a rounded front and an overall smoother appearance. More importantly, the F-250 had a new front suspension, new frame and new engine. The new F-250 was aimed at personal use, while its heavy-duty edition, the F-250 HD, was produced for commercial use and retained styling from previous years.

Ford offered the F-250 in four trim levels for 1997. These included Standard, XL, XLT and Lariat. Within these trim levels, consumers chose from a regular cab, extended super cab as well as a crew cab in the XL and XLT trim levels. Within these trim levels, rear wheel drive and four wheel drive were available.

The 1997 F-250 is a mid-size truck at 222.3 inches in length on a 138.8 inch wheelbase. The height is 72.7 inches and the width is 78.4 inches. F-250 trucks have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 7200 pounds.

The 1997 F-250 is powered by different engines. Consumers chose from a 4.2 liter V-6 engine with 210 horsepower, 4.6 liter engine with 220 horsepower or 5.4 liter engine with 235 horsepower. The 4.6 liter and 5.4 liter engines are equipped with Triton V-8 engines. The F-250 engine uses a multipoint fuel injection system with a bore of 90.2 millimeters and a 90 millimeter stroke, a 9:4:1 compression ratio and two valves per cylinder.

A five-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard for all models of the F-250. The four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is an option for all models. Average fuel economy for the F-250 is 14 miles per gallon in the city and 18 to 19 miles per gallon on the highway. The rear anti-lock braking system or ABS is standard on all F-250 models.

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Power

Exterior

Miscellaneous

Damage

Rebuilt

Brand

Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Instructions

Monday, August 29, 2016

Background

Trim Levels

SE

Dimensions

Sedans

Coupes

Roadsters

Crossover

Light Trucks/SUVs

Super Cars

Sunday, August 28, 2016

Definition

Access

Meaning

Usefulness

Additions

Pricing and Warranty

Interior and Exterior

Engine and Fuel Economy

Safety Features

Drivetrain

Saturday, August 27, 2016

Instructions

Friday, August 26, 2016

Instructions

Research Used Cars

Search for Available Used Cars

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Production Vehicles

Show Vehicles

Racing Vehicles

Concept Vehicles

Instructions

Instructions

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Updated EPA Methods

Skewed View

Truer Picture

Instructions

Before You Buy a Used Car

Title-Washing of Used Cars

What to Do if Your Used Car is Damaged

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

Prius

Tacoma

RAV4

Monday, August 22, 2016

Trims

Engines and Fuel Economy

Safety Features

Interior

Exterior

Conclusion

Brands

Value

Uses

Sunday, August 21, 2016

Instructions

Types

Features

Significance

Benefits

Considerations

Selection

Getting a Good Deal

History Report

Safety

Instructions

Under the Hood

Dimensions