Saturday, September 30, 2017

2002 Chevy Suburban Specifications

The 2002 Chevrolet Suburban is the largest sport utility vehicle, SUV, in the Chevrolet line up. The Suburban is the longest running SUV in the history of the automobile. The Suburban first was introduced in 1935 as the Suburban Carry-All. The Suburban is available in two-wheel drive as well as four-wheel drive; the truck also comes in a K1500 and K2500 series.

Drivetrain

    The 2002 Chevrolet Suburban comes standard with a 5.3-liter, 285-horsepower engine on the 1500 package. The K2500 rear-wheel and four-wheel Suburban 6.0-liter, 320-horsepower engine are standard, although, offer an optional 8.1-liter, 340-horsepower V-8. All the engines are backed by a four-speed automatic.

Dimensions

    The 2002 Chevrolet Suburban has a curb weight of 5,142 lbs. and 5,668 lbs. for the four-wheel drive for the K1500 and K2500, respectively. The curb weight is 4,858 lbs. and 5,371 lbs. for the rear-wheel drive K1500 and K2500, respectively.

    The wheelbase is 130 inches on all models. The overall length of the Chevrolet Suburban is 219.3 inches long for all trims with a 78.8-inch width for the 1500 and 79.8-inch width for the 2500.

    The height of the 1500 series, four-wheel drive truck is 75.4 inches and 75.6 inches on the rear-wheel drive. The height of the 2500 series is 76.9 inches for the four-wheel drive and 76.5 inches for the rear-wheel drive truck.

Interior

    The Chevrolet Suburban seats nine people comfortably with the front headroom measured at 40.7 inches and the rear headroom is 39 inches. The legroom measurements are 41.3 inches in the front and 39.1 in the rear. Shoulder room is 65.2 inches in the front and 65.1 in the back and hip room is 61.4 front and rear. These measurements are the same on both the 1500 and the 2500 both four- and rear-wheel drive trims.

Fuel Economy and Pricing

    The standard 5.3-liter engine gets 13 mpg in the city for the four-wheel drive and 14 mpg on the rear-wheel drive. The highway mileage is 17 mpg on the four-wheel drive and 18 mpg for the rear-wheel drive. There is no statistics for the larger engines. The original MSRP for this truck started at $35,938 and went as high as $40,401.

The Dimensions of the Mercedes Sprinter 311

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 311 is an upper-scale cargo van. The van's chassis is steel and is treated with phosphate. A bit pricier than other cargo vans, the Sprinter 311 provides adequate space for most hauling needs.

Exterior Dimensions

    The Sprinter 311 is 22.8 feet (6950mm) long. Overall, the width of the van is 7.96 feet (2426mm), with a cab width of 6.33 feet (1930mm). The Sprinter is 8.87 feet (2705mm) in height. With a wheel base of 13.19 feet (4020mm), the overhang in the front reaches 3.08 feet (940mm).

Interior Dimensions

    Cargo space is important when considering dimensions of the Sprinter 311. The interior load area length of the Sprinter is 14.11 feet (4300mm), with load height capabilities of up to 6.36 feet (1940mm). The interior load width is 5.84 feet (1780mm). All of this space can be accessed from a loading height of 2.20 feet (670mm).

Other Dimensions

    Not only does the Sprinter 311 have adequate hauling space, it also can tow up to 6172.94 pounds, or just over three tons . The entire van is supported by a four-cylinder, 2.2-liter engine and 75-liter (16.5-gallon) fuel tank.

How to Get a New Car Tag

How to Get a New Car Tag

Buying a vehicle creates excitement, but also comes with a lot of responsibility. Once you purchase either a new or used car, you are responsible to obtain a tag within a month. Some dealerships complete the process for you while others do not. Obtaining a tag is easy by completing the required proper paperwork and spending a little money.

Instructions

    1

    Ask the dealership from which you purchased your car to complete the tag application process during the time of financing. At this time, you can add the fees into the amount financed and simply wait for the tag to arrive in the mail.

    2

    Ensure your vehicle has an up-to-date emissions test, if you purchase it used. If it has been more than one year since the last inspection, the vehicle must get a new emissions test before you can apply for a new tag.

    3

    Apply for a tag at your local tag office. You will need to bring a copy of your insurance, the title or registration, and cash or a personal check (reference 1). The fees must be paid at the time you apply for the new tag. Fees can vary by state, as well as by the tag you choose to order.

    4

    Wait for the tag to arrive, if it is not given to you at the time you apply. Some tag offices may have tags readily available while others do not. This process will take longer for personalized plates.

    5

    Attach the new tag onto your car promptly. Keep a copy of the car's registration in your vehicle at all time.

    6

    Renew the tag each year. Failure to renew your tag can cost you excessive fees and stress.

Friday, September 29, 2017

98 Honda Accord Specs

The Honda Accord was introduced in 1976 and U.S. production began in 1982. One of Honda's most recognized brands, the Accord underwent a major redesign for the 1998 model, taking it from a small car to a midsize automobile, according to MSN Autos. A sixth-generation model in 1998, the car is still in production, as of 2010.

Engines

    The 1998 Honda Accord is offered in three trim levels, including the DX, LX and the EX. The DX has a single-overhead, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine with bore of 3.39 inches and a stroke of 3.82 inches. It has a displacement of 137 cubic inches and produced 145 foot-pounds at 4,700 rpm. It has a compression ratio of 8:8.1

    The LX and EX both feature the 16-valve, four-cylinder VTEC engine (VTEC is a Honda technology designed for low fuel consumption). Both engines mirror the DX's bore and stroke, but produce 150 horsepower at 5,700 rpm. Both engines have a compression ratio of 9.3:1.

Drivetrain

    All three trims of the 1998 Accord have front-wheel drive and are available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission, and share the same chassis with a double wishbone coil spring with stabilizer bar in the front and multi-link double-wishbone variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering in the rear. It has a turning radius of 36.4 feet.

Fuel Economy

    The manual transmission for all trim levels provides an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. For the automatic, the DX is estimated at 22 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway, while the LX and the EX produce 23 and 30 mpg. All three models of the Accord use unleaded fuel.

Exterior

    All three Accord trims have a wheelbase of 106.9 inches. The car is 188.8 inches long, 70.3 inches wide and 56.9 inches high. The car's ground clearance is 6.2 feet. With the manual transmission, the Accord weighs 2,888 lbs. and 2,954 lbs. with the automatic.

Interior

    As with most specs of the 1998 Accord, the interior dimensions of all three models are the same for this car. In the front, passengers will enjoy 40 inches of headroom, 42.1 inches of legroom and 54.9 inches of hip room. Passengers in the back get 37.6 inches of headroom, 39.7 inches of legroom and 54.1 inches of hip room. Total passenger volume is 101.7 inches, with a cargo volume of 14.1 cubic feet.

Dodge Caravan Towing Specifications

Dodge Caravan Towing Specifications

Dodge is a manufacture of automobiles from car, SUVs, trucks and minivans. The Grand Caravan is minivan that comes in 10 color schemes and four different models: Cargo Van, SE, Hero and SXT. If you plan to haul material with the Dodge Grand Caravan, you may want to review the towing capacity of each model.

2010 Dodge Caravan Cargo Van

    The 2010 Dodge Caravan Cargo Van features a 3.3-liter V6 engine and an automatic four-speed transmission. The cargo van has a curb weight of 4,092 lbs. The vehicle comes with a maximum towing capacity of 2,800 lbs. and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,050 lbs. The weight distribution on the front tire is 56 percent and the 44 percent in the rear.

2010 Dodge Caravan SE

    The 2010 Dodge Caravan SE comes with a 3.3-liter V6 and a four-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle has a 56 percent front weight distribution and a 44 percent weight distribution. The 4,321-lb.-Caravan SE has a GVWR of 6,050 lbs. and a total capacity of 2,800 lbs.

2010 Dodge Caravan Hero

    The 2010 Dodge Caravan Hero comes with a 3.8-liter V6 engine and a six-speed automatic 62TE transmission. The Caravan Hero comes with a 3,600-lb. maximum towing capacity and a GVWR of 5,700 lbs. The curb weight is 4,483 lbs. It offers a 56 percent of a front weight distribution and a 44 percent rear weight distribution.

2010 Grand Caravan SXT

    The 2010 Grand Caravan SXT has a 3.8-liter six-speed automatic transmission. The 4,483-lb.-vehicle comes with a 5,700 GVWR and a 3.600-lb. maximum towing capacity. The weight distribution is 56 percent in the front and 44 percent in the rear.

How to Get a Tax Credit for the Chevy Volt

How to Get a Tax Credit for the Chevy Volt

The Chevy Volt is General Motor's electric vehicle released in 2010. Two years prior to the Volt's release, the United States Congress passed a bill granting $7500 in federal tax credits to buyers of plug-in electric vehicles going into service after January 1, 2010. The first 200,000 buyers of the Chevy Volt will qualify for the federal tax credit. Subsequent buyers will qualify for 50 percent or 25 percent tax credits after the 200,000 car mark is reached. Receiving this tax credit will bring the price of the vehicle down from around $41,000 to around $33,500.

Instructions

    1

    Buy the Chevy Volt or other plug-in electric vehicle. Its release began in 2010 in several states but continues through more states through 2011. Other eligible electric vehicles include the Nissan Leaf.

    2

    When you file your taxes, obtain and complete the 8834 tax form titled "Qualified Plug-in Electric and Electric Vehicle Credit," a separate form you use to claim your tax credit. It requests information such as the make of the vehicle and when it was put into use. This document can be retrieved from the IRS website.

    3

    Fill out the 3800 form titled "General Business Credit," if you intend the to use the vehicle for business. Claim the credit on line 1z. Additionally, fill out Section B of the 8834 form. This asks you to indicate the percentage of the vehicle's usage used for business and to make some calculations based on the cost of the vehicle. This form can also be located on the IRS website.

    4

    Report that you have claimed a credit on your "U.S. Individual Income Tax Return" 1040 tax form. The 1040 is used to file personal taxes. You will find a line item in the "Tax and Credits" section where you can indicate that you have filled out Form 8834.

Thursday, September 28, 2017

How to Lease a Mini Cooper

So you're all done with searching for a new car, and you've decided to go with a Mini Cooper. It's great on gas, small on the outside, big on the inside, reliable and a good bang for your buck as long as you get the perfect lease deal. Let's look at what's needed to lease a new Mini Cooper.

Instructions

How to lease a Mini Cooper

    1

    Do your shopping online. Take a look at a few websites that offer lease quotes from dealerships. Cars.com, Edmunds.com, CarsDirect.com and AutoBytel.com are just a few sites that you can receive multiple quotes from dealers of your choosing. (See Reference.)

    2

    Know what you want. Figure out exactly what you need for your lease to get the best pricing. Figure out the colors and options you want, how many miles per year you'll need for your lease, how long of a term and how much down payment you are comfortable with putting towards your lease.

    3

    Be financially ready. Check your credit score online and make sure that there are no errors or late payments that might hinder your getting approval from the bank when it's time to get your new Mini Cooper. (See Resource 2.)

    4

    Pick a winner. Get back all of the quotes from the dealerships you contacted and choose the best quote. Schedule a day and time to walk into the dealership to pick up your new Mini Cooper. A lot of times you can have the vehicle filled with gas and detailed before you even get there to minimize the amount of time spent at the dealership.

    5

    Get your paperwork in order. When you go into the dealership, you will usually need three main things for them to process all of the paperwork: a valid driver's license, a valid insurance card (not expired) and a filled out and signed credit application. If you don't have a credit application on you, you can always fill one out when you get there.

Wednesday, September 27, 2017

About Toyota Model SUVs

About Toyota Model SUVs

The Japanese automaker Toyota is the world's largest, and enjoys sales from Portugal to Pennsylvania to the Philippines. It has a line of six SUV models, including a hybrid. Some, like the RAV4, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser, are well-known symbols of the Toyota line. The features and prices noted are for the 2008 models.

RAV4


    The RAV4 is a popular compact crossover SUV model that has been available in the United States for more than a decade. It was very much a trailblazer, with most of the other crossover SUVs currently on the market following in the wake of its proven success. There are now only four-door models. All versions have a 2.4 liter, 166hp, four-cylinder engine and a 15-gallon gas tank. The vehicle starts at $21,500.

FJ Cruiser


    This is a retro-style compact SUV resembling a 1960s-era Toyota vehicle. It has a 4 liter, V-6 engine that puts out 239hp, and a 19-gallon gas tank. The transmission also comes as a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual. It is a two-door vehicle that starts at $23,045.

Highlander


    The Highlander is a mid-sized crossover SUV. It is powered by a 3.5L, V-6, 270hp engine. The body comes as a four-door only, and only with a five-speed automatic transmission. Despite that lack of choice in transmission system, the vehicle does have front-wheel and all-wheel drive versions. There is also a hybrid edition that gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, The hybrid starts at $34,700, and the standard starts at $25,706.

4Runner


    The Toyota 4Runner has been on the market for more than 25 years. It started as a compact SUV, but is now a mid-sized, semi-luxury design. There are two choices of engine: a 4 liter V-6, and a 4.7 liter 270hp V-8. A tire pressure warning system is a novel part of the standard equipment, and a five-speed automatic transmission is standard. The vehicle starts at $28,640.

Sequoia


    This is a full-size SUV, and based on Tundra pickup-truck technology. It is the biggest SUV sold under the Toyota label. There are two engine options: a 4.7 liter V-8 with 276hp, and a 5.7 liter V-8 with 381hp, but there is no manual transmission option. There are only the five- and 6six-speed automatics. The SUV starts at $34,150.

Land Cruiser


    The iconic Land Cruiser comes with four-wheel drive standard and a plethora of transmission and engine choices. The engines available are the 5.7 liter 381 hp Dual VVTi V-8, the 4.7 liter 288 hp VVTi V-8 Petrol, the 4.5 liter 286 hp Intercooled Twin Turbo D-4D V-8 Diesel, and the 4.0 liter 240 hp DOHC with VVT-i Petrol. There are five-speed and six-speed automatic transmissions, and a six-speed manual. The six-speed automatic is only for the diesel version. The Land Cruiser starts at $64,755

Monday, September 25, 2017

How to Avoid New Car Dealer Scams

How to Avoid New Car Dealer Scams

Receiving the most complaints of any consumer industry in 2009, new car dealerships are ripe for scams. Over 50,000 complaints were filed against car dealers that year. Car dealerships have come up with the most sensational ideas to steal money from unsuspecting buyers. The industry's penchant for deception is one customers must be aware of before coming onto any lot and making a purchase. Avoiding these scams requires some close examination and attentiveness while shopping for a new vehicle.

Instructions

    1

    Make sure to talk to only one auto professional at the dealership. Many dealerships shuffle customers around to talk to different people, with each providing inconsistent or confusing information. This is usually indicative of a scam and that something is not right. Choose one representative and speak to him only during your entire stay.

    2

    Know which car you are interested in before coming to the lot. Car salesman are quick to take advantage of people unsure about what they want to purchase. They will attempt to persuade you into purchasing a car before you leave, promising "special" one-time offers, on-the-spot delivery and other sweet deals. Do not allow yourself to be fooled or bullied into buying a vehicle if you do not want to. Leave if the dealer cannot provide you with the car you want at a suitable price.

    3

    Be wary of car dealers who advertise a certain model in the paper loaded with extra add-ons, but only have the base model on the lot. Dealers will lie to you that you saw something different and that the base model available is the actual one from the advertisement. They will try convincing you that their model is as good as any other model when it is not. Avoid this scam by simply walking away when you discover it.

    4

    Avoid salespeople who use crafty one-liners such as, "The websites you get the prices from are wrong" and "What will it take to make you sign today?" Reconsider purchasing a vehicle from the dealership if you hear many one-liners from a salesperson. If the information he gives you seems inconsistent or suspicious, do not buy a car.

    5

    Do not sign for any car loans at a dealership. These "loans" are actually known as Retail Installment Sales Contracts in the auto industry. After you sign a RISC, the dealer then sells it to a bank or other lender as a contract markup. Occasionally they will even participate in the interest rate, which will hike the APR rate they charge you and take more money from your wallet. Secure your own financing if the dealer cannot give you a better APR.

1994 Mercedes E320 Specs

1994 Mercedes E320 Specs

The 1994 Mercedes E320, an entry level Mercedes, comes with many options that make this car enjoyable and worth its hefty price tag. The E320 comes in three distinct styles, including a convertible, a 2-door coupe and a 4-door sedan.

Powertrain

    The Mercedes E320 comes standard with a 3.2 liter, inline 6 cylinder engine. The engine can produce 217 horsepower at 5,500 revolutions per minute (rpm). The engine is backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Amenities

    The Mercedes E320 sedan and coup come standard with a power sunroof, air conditioning, power windows, power seats and an AM/FM cassette stereo. The interior featured standard leather seating for its five passenger cabin.

Safety

    The Mercedes E320 includes driver and passenger side airbags. The car also comes standard with anti-lock disc brakes. This car was produced before traction and stability control were standard on all Mercedes models.

Fuel Economy and Pricing

    The Mercedes E320 gets 19 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. The E320 basic model originally cost $42,500 in 1994, but you can buy it used today for about $4,300.

How to Buy an Auto With a Salvage Title

How to Buy an Auto With a Salvage Title

Automobiles that are declared salvage vehicles by insurance companies are autos which have become severely damaged beyond repair or would take a great amount of money to repair properly. Insurance companies often sell the salvage vehicles to dealers by way of auto auctions and each auto comes with a salvage title. Purchasing a used car with a clean title is a risk in itself, but buying an automobile with a salvage title takes research in order to take the risk out of buying a salvage auto.

Instructions

    1

    Request a CARFAX report or auto history report from the seller or dealer Salvage autos with titles that are listed as salvage have been damaged to the point where the insurance companies have deemed the vehicle a salvage vehicle.

    2

    Pay cash for the vehicle. Make sure you have enough funds to pay for the entire amount of the salvage auto. Finance companies will not approve any loans for an auto with a salvage title.

    3

    Obtain a license and registration for your salvage vehicle. Your vehicle must pass state-mandated inspections in order to obtain the proper documentation to be on the road. Check with your state's Department of Transportation website to find out more information.

How to Import Japanese Vehicles

How to Import Japanese Vehicles

The vehicle purchasing process may be a time filled with excitement and anticipation. The anticipation increases when the vehicle must be transported directly from a remote location. The vehicle import requirements are heavily influenced by the reorganization of customs practices after Sept. 11, 2001. The documentation required to successfully import a vehicle to the United States from Japan calls for detailed information on all elements of the transaction. The purchaser and the exporter share in the responsibility of eliminating any delays in the shipment process.

Instructions

    1

    Locate a certified Japanese auto dealer or a domestic Japanese auto auction service. Look for information on these companies on numerous import-export auto industry websites. Or visit your local public library for specific business directories. Research an organization by contacting the National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan (www.kokusen.go.jp/ncac_index_e.html).

    2

    Complete a pro forma invoice for customs. A seller may generate this invoice and fax it to you before the sale of the vehicle. This document should display vehicle specifications and detailed information about the transaction. You must sign this form and fax it back to the shipper.

    3

    Purchase your vehicle using a bank wire transfer. The preferred import-export method of payment is wire transfer transaction. You may use a direct transfer of funds from an existing bank account. You may be asked to send a small deposit before the vehicle is loaded for shipping. The balance may be requested after you receive a mailed packet containing the shipment documents for the vehicle.

    4

    Ship the vehicle. The dealer/auction service will place the vehicle on a commercial vessel for delivery to your location. This process is known as an FOB or Free On Board and represents the fulfillment of the shipper's obligation per the previously generated invoice. The shipper will then send a packet by mail containing the vehicle paperwork and all documents pertaining to the sale.

    5

    Pay the respective import duties necessary for the release of the vehicle from customs. As of 2010, the duty owed for automobiles imported into the United States is 2.5 percent of the vehicle purchase price.

    6

    Complete DOT form HS-7 and EPA form 3520-1 to verify compliance with U.S. emission standards. These forms must accompany the transaction invoice and vehicle documentation and will be subject to evaluation by customs officials. The information will be inspected at the vehicle point of entry. The Department of Agriculture specifies that the undercarriage of all vehicles imported into the country remain free from dirt and debris. Arrangements for cleaning or removal of debris should be made before shipment.

    7

    Hire a shipping agent to handle port of call/customs requirements. Contact information for shipping agent may be found on the Internet or in the local phone directory.

    8

    Register the vehicle with your local vehicle licensing office. These locations may be found via website or in the local phone directory. The documentation generated by the initial sale along with customs information may be needed for successful registration.

Sunday, September 24, 2017

The Best Car Review Blogs

The Best Car Review Blogs

Any time you're looking for a new car to purchase, it helps to read in-depth reviews of cars in the class you wish to buy. You can always turn to the consumer reports and get a professional opinion, but car blogs can offer an alternative opinion, often in a style more accessible to the casual driver. These blogs are selected based on the diversity and quality of the car reviews they publish.

Autoblog

    Autoblog's tagline is "We obsessively cover the auto industry." A cursory glance over their website seems to indicate they're telling the truth. Covering all topics from auto repair guides, to news in racing and auto shows to an entire catalog of car reviews, Autoblog exhaustively provides any information one could want. With an easy-to-use search feature, finding a review of a specific make and model is simple.

The Truth About Cars

    The Truth About Cars.com, while not as easily navigated as Autoblog, contains perhaps better written and more informative reviews. Their searches are limited to make alone, which gives you a list of the models reviewed from that manufacturer. Besides car reviews, The Truth About Cars also regularly features restored classic cars and news from the auto industry.

Kicking Tires

    Kicking tires is Cars.com's "blog for car buyers." Written by the staff at Cars.com, it includes regular reviews of cars, tips for buying cars, news of big sales pushes and more. While not broken down into categories like Autoblog or The Truth About Cars, its search engine is simple and straightforward, and the information is reliable and thorough.

How to Buy a Secondhand Car Privately

How to Buy a Secondhand Car Privately

Buying a vehicle from a private seller is generally cheaper than from a dealer, but precautions should be taken to protect yourself from paying too much, or from purchasing a mechanically problematic vehicle.

Resources

    Use the Edmunds and "Kelley Blue Book" websites to determine a fair private-sale value for the car you want to buy. Check consumer reviews on both websites to identify any common problems. Call your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to determine what documents are necessary to complete the purchase of the vehicle and be sure the seller can supply the documents you need.

Warning

    Arrange for a mechanic to inspect the vehicle you intend to purchase. Arrange a time with the seller to bring the vehicle to a shop where it can be properly inspected prior to your purchasing. A mechanic can identify any mechanical issues or let you know how well the vehicle has been maintained.

Time Frame

    Take your time searching for a vehicle that's within your budget and fits your needs. Once you find the vehicle, move quickly to secure your purchase. If you intend to finance the vehicle, apply for a pre-approval from your bank before you begin to shop. This process can take up to a week. Your state's DMV may also have time restraints--some state's require you title the vehicle within 30 days. Be sure you are clear on your state's rules.

Saturday, September 23, 2017

How do I Buy Used Lexus Cars Wholesale?

How do I Buy Used Lexus Cars Wholesale?

Buying a pre-owned luxury vehicle at wholesale price is the best of both worlds. You get the benefit of owning a high-end automobile while paying a rock-bottom price. To buy a used Lexus wholesale, you should plan to attend an auction.

Instructions

    1
    Find an auto auction
    Find an auto auction

    Locate an auction. Types of auctions include: private auctions for authorized dealers, public police-impound auctions, public government auctions for seized property.

    Lists of auctions can be found online. The websites may require a membership fee to get access to the information.

    2
    Do your homework, check out pricing
    Do your homework, check out pricing

    Compare prices. For a point of reference, go to the Lexus website to check out prices of new vehicles. Use an automobile price resource guide to find what the cost would be for the same model when used.

    3
    Buy wholesale and save
    Buy wholesale and save

    Decide in advance what you are willing to pay for the car. When buying at an auction, you could pay as low as 60 percent below retail.

    4
    Check out the car
    Check out the car

    Inspect the vehicle before buying. If the auction has a preview day, visually inspect the vehicle and start it. Listen to the engine. Test the lights, heat, air conditioning and brakes. Auctions do not allow customers to test-drive vehicles.

    5
    Be ready to pay for the Lexus, if yours is high bid.
    Be ready to pay for the Lexus, if yours is high bid.

    Participate in the auction. Be prepared to pay for the vehicle on the spot, or within a day or two of the event, depending on that auction's requirements.

Thursday, September 21, 2017

Hyundai 360 Specs

Hyundai 360 Specs

The Hyundai R360LC-7A is part of the new 9 Series of Robex crawler excavators Hyundai produces for its heavy-duty Hyundai Construction Equipment (HCE) line. The series includes over 30 different models, with the R110-7 being the smallest and the R800LC-7A being the largest.

Physical Dimensions

    The Hyundai R360LC-7A stands 10 feet 5 inches high, and is 10 feet 11 inches wide and 36 feet 6 inches long. It weighs 79,590 pounds.

Engine

    The Hyundai R360LC-7A comes with an 8,900-cc, 296-hp/1,850-rpm Cummins QSL engine. It has a bore and stroke of 4.5 inches by 5.3 inches (114 by 144.5 mm), with a maximum torque of 1,000 foot-pounds at 1,400 rpm. It has a maximum travel speed of 2 to 2.8 mph.

Bucket Size and Digging Power

    The Hyundai R360LC-7A's bucket has a capacity of 2.12 cubic yards, with a maximum digging depth of 24 feet 7 inches, a maximum digging height of 34 feet 3 inches and a maximum digging force of 45,190 foot-pounds.

Standard Features

    Despite being a piece of heavy-duty, industrial construction equipment, the Hyundai R360LC-7A comes with a broad array of standard features intended both to improve performance and increase the comfort of the operator. Standard features include a heater and defroster in the cab, an all-weather steel cab with all-around visibility, safety-glass windows, a sliding side window, an LCD display for the engine speed and error codes, two outside rearview mirrors, an automatic swing brake, an electric horn, a travel alarm and a fuel warmer.

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Specifications for a 1991 Jaguar XJ6

The Jaguar XJ is a luxury sedan sold by Jaguar Cars Ltd., and is the flagship model of the British luxury car manufacturer. The 1991 version of the Jaguar XJ was released during a maligned production cycle spanning from the late-'80s to the mid-'90s. The base trim was dubbed the XJ6, above which were the upgraded Sovereign and Vanden Plas trims.

Engine and Transmission

    The 1991 Jaguar XJ6 had a 4-liter, 223-horsepower in-line six-cylinder engine with 278 foot-pounds of torque and a compression ratio of 9.5 to 1. The only available transmission was a four-speed automatic with overdrive.

Fuel Economy

    The 1991 Jaguar XJ6 had a 23-gallon gas tank. Fuel economy was rated at 17 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 22 mpg for highway driving.

Interior Features

    The standard interior features of the 1991 Jaguar XJ6 included power door locks and windows, anti-lock brakes, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering, stereo system with AM/FM radio and leather seats. The vehicle was designed to seat up to five people, with headroom averaging around 37 inches, legroom around 36 inches, and shoulder and hip room around 59 inches.

Exterior Features

    The 1991 Jaguar XJ6 only came as a four-door sedan, and had 15-inch alloy wheels. With a curb weight of 3,935 pounds, the vehicle's exterior dimensions were 196 inches in length, 79 inches in width and 54 inches in height. It had a wheelbase of 113 inches. Steering was rack-and-pinion with a turning diameter of around 41 feet, and the vehicle had independent front and rear suspensions.

Price

    The original manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 1991 Jaguar XJ6 was $43,000. As of 2010, the price value range of the '91 XJ6 is estimated by Kelley Blue Book at around $4,000 to $5,000.

What Is the Volkswagen Bug Convertible?

First launched in 2003, the Volkswagen Bug Convertible is a modern update to the original Volkswagen Beetle. The exteriors are similar enough that the proper name for the vehicle is the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible.

Exterior

    A fabric roof that can retract semi-automatically differentiates the convertible from a regular Volkswagen New Beetle, although both cars have round designs and a dome-like body.

Interior

    The interior offers taller drivers a bit more room than in other compact vehicles, according to the company. Like older Beetles, new models come with space to put flowers in the dash.

Performance

    The 2010 New Beetle Convertible, like its hardtop cousin, is powered by a 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that provides 150 horsepower and has independent front and rear suspensions.

Safety

    The convertible variant was tested in 2009 by the New Car Assessment Program and received four out of five stars in frontal impact collision protection and rollover safety.

Storage

    With the top folded down, the storage capacity of the New Beetle shrinks tremendously. It offers 5 cubic feet of space, compared to the 13 cubic feet offered by the regular model.

2002 Hyundai Sonata Horsepower

The 2002 Hyundai Sonata was a four-door sedan that was equipped with one of two engines: either a 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6. The 2002 model is part of the Sonata line produced since 1985.

2.4-Liter

    The 2.4-liter straight-four engine was standard equipment on the base GL and mid-level GLS models. A five-speed manual or four-speed automatic matched the engine. The in-line four featured a 10:1 compression ratio to help develop 138 horsepower and 147 ft-lbs. of torque.

V6

    The 2.7-liter V6 was the standard engine for the LX, SE and Limited models and featured a five-speed automatic transmission. The 2002 Sonata's V6 had 181 horsepower and 177 ft-lbs. of torque. It also had a 10:1 compression ratio.

Performance

    The 2002 Sonata equipped with the 2.4-liter in-line four-cylinder engine was rated at 22 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway. The 2.7-liter V6-equipped Sonata garnered 20 mpg in an urban environment and 27 mpg on the open road.

How to Customize My Car Online

Cars are many people's pride and joy. Cars also often denote people's social status and express the driver's personal tastes and style. Customized cars especially stand out, as they display the special features preferred by the owner. Today, you can easily customize your own car online at an online car dealership, which makes owning a customized car much simpler than in the past.

Instructions

    1

    Go to an online car dealer that offers the option to build your own car, such as Chrysler at chrysler.com. A link to the site is in the References section of this article.

    2

    Select a car style to which you can add customized features, such as a Sebring convertible.

    3

    Choose the model of the car, such as LX.

    4

    Pick the colors of the car, both the interior and the exterior, such as tan interior with white exterior.

    5

    Specify any additional options you would like, such as aluminum wheels rather than steel ones.

    6

    Click on "Review Order Summary" to review your order and make any changes before clicking "Get a Quote," at which time you will be contacted by a customer service representative by either phone or email with more information about your order.

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

How to Determine the Dealer Invoice Price

The invoice price for a car gives you a general idea of how much the dealership paid to the manufacturer. Dealers get certain discounts and credits that bring the actual cost down, but invoice price is the starting point. Knowing it gives you a valuable negotiation tool if you are in the market for a new car. The salesperson will know you are serious because you have done your research, and you will have a basis for determining a fair price.

Instructions

    1

    Write down the details for each car you are interested in buying. You must know the year, make, model and specific options to get an accurate invoice price. The invoice includes a base price for the car, and each option adds more to the total. Your price will be too low if you leave any of those options off when you do your research.

    2

    Pull up the invoice price for the vehicles on your list on an automotive research website. You can customize your choices, including options, to ensure you get an accurate price. The website will tally up the total as you make your choices. It will also include the destination charge, a part of every invoice that covers delivery of the car from the factory to the dealership. Print out the information when you are done.

    3

    Visit another automotive research website, and look up the vehicles again. Most websites give accurate information, but new-vehicle costs can change through the year as manufacturers raise prices. There may have been a price increase if the two websites do not give matching figures. Go to a third website, get the invoice prices there, and see if they match one of the other two sites.

    4

    Bring your printouts to dealerships as you shop for a new vehicle. Streetdirectory.com advises using the invoice price as your bargaining point instead of bargaining down from the manufacturer's suggested retail price.

How to Buy a New Truck Out of State

According to Bankrate.com, the number one selling vehicle for the first half of 2009 was the Ford Series truck. If you're interested in purchasing a truck, consider buying out of state for a better deal. The same truck you find at your local dealership may sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars less in another state. If this is the case, it makes sense to travel a little to buy your new truck.

Instructions

    1

    Secure financing before purchasing a truck out of state. Apply for your truck loan through the bank, credit union or finance company of your choice. Consider obtaining a loan through the dealer selling your new truck if you're offered special financing or a low interest rate.

    2

    Compare rates and ensure you receive the best deal. Obtain a pre-approval letter stating the amount of funds you're approved for.

    3

    Locate a new truck to purchase by contacting dealers. Request the vehicle identification number, make and model of the new truck. This information allows you to check the vehicle's history. Ask the dealer about refunds or other incentives for buying a new truck.

    4

    Perform online vehicle checks. Use sites such as Autotrade.com, Carfax.com and NADA.com to ensure you're getting a good deal on an out-of-state, new truck (See Resources). Verify a vehicle is new and not used on Carfax.com by checking the vehicle's history report. Compare prices with local dealers.

    5

    Review your state regulations for registering a truck from out of state. For instance, California requires the truck be certified to meet smog laws. Make sure the truck complies with your state laws. Contact your department of motor vehicles for more information.

    6

    Purchase the truck by supplying your lender with the name of the dealership or seller. Have the seller fax a copy of the truck's title and bill of sale to your lender for payment. Sign the required loan documents along with the warranty and mileage statement.

    7

    Receive the paperwork required to register the new truck in your state. This includes the title and bill of sale. However, check with your department of motor vehicles for a list of paperwork required for vehicle registration. Obtain a copy of the loan documents you signed.

    8

    Complete an out-of-state vehicle registration application with the department of motor vehicles in your state and register the new truck. Present the application, bill of sale and title. Pay any required fees and taxes.

Dodge Charger HEMI RT Specs

The Dodge Charger Hemi R/T is perhaps one of the last American style sedans, with a large interior and a natural aspirated V8 powering either RWD or AWD. With the recent acquisition of Chrysler by Fiat, there have been significant changes made to the Chrysler group brands, including Dodge. The Dodge charger has been a steady seller for Chrysler, both to individuals and to police stations because of its power and interior space.

Dimensions

    Length for the Charger is 200 inches from bumper to bumper, width is 74.5 inches -- not counting the mirrors -- and height is 58 inches. The wheelbase is 120 inches -- wheelbase is the length between the wheel axles -- and the track is 63 inches -- track refers to the width between the axle ends. Interior volume is 104 feet cubed and fits five passengers. It has a empty weight of 4,085 lbs.

Powertrain

    The Road and Track trim of the Dodge Charger is offered in both RWD and AWD powertrains, both powered by a 5.7-liter, Hemi V-8 engine hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission. It generates 368 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 395 foot-pounds of torque at 4,350 rpm. The RWD version gets 25 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city, the AWD version gets 24 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg in the city.

Handling

    The charger has independent suspension in front and five-link, multi-link suspension in the rear. Steering is rack and pinion, with electrical power. Turning radius is 15.4 foot for both RWD and AWD.

Sunday, September 17, 2017

How to Figure a Horsepower Rating

How to Figure a Horsepower Rating

James Watt defined horsepower as 33,000 pound-force-feet per minute, the amount of power that he estimated the average horse was capable of producing. The manufacturer of your vehicle probably lists its horsepower rating in its specifications, but if it does not, you can calculate it from the engine's other specs. Torque and engine speed determine horsepower. You can find your vehicle's torque from its listed specifications, and determine its engine speed from the instrument panel's rpm gauge.

Instructions

    1

    Find your vehicle's torque rating, measured in pound-force-feet. Your specifications may refer to this unit as "pounds-foot," "pounds-feet," "pound-feet" or simply as "pounds."

    2

    Multiply the torque by the engine speed, measured in revolutions per minute (rpm). For example, if your engine produces a torque of 300 pound-force-feet and rotates at 3,500 rpm: 300 x 3,500 = 1,050,000.

    3

    Divide your answer by 5,252. This operation combines a number of conversion steps. With this example: 1,050,000 / 5,252 = 200 horsepower.

What Is an ABS Braking System?

What Is an ABS Braking System?

An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a type of automobile brake that is designed to not lock up in emergency stopping situations. Originally offered only on luxury and high performance vehicles, ABS brakes are becoming standard equipment on many new cars and trucks.

Identification

    ABS systems work by monitoring the rate that the wheels are turning. When the system detects one wheel that is decelerating more quickly than the other wheels, or decelerating at a preset rate that indicates it is about to lock up, the ABS system reduces the brake pressure to that wheel.

Advantages

    When wheels lock up, they begin to slide. As the wheel slides it moves more quickly than a wheel that is being slowed while maintaining traction. ABS braking systems keep brakes from locking up by reducing pressure to wheels that are about to lock. On a car without ABS, a driver must manually apply the needed pressure to not lock up the wheels.

Using ABS Brakes

    When an emergency situation occurs, many drivers naturally stomp the brakes and lock up the wheels, but this will not occur with ABS brakes. Instead, a driver can simply depress the pedal and the ABS system will work to assure that the wheels do not lock.

How to Locate a Vehicle by VIN

How to Locate a Vehicle by VIN

Every vehicle has a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) assigned at the time of manufacture. The VIN is found in several places on a vehicle, usually on the dash, on one of the doors and on the engine. Sources available to the public make it possible to access records that pertain to the vehicle, including car make, model, year, tag, odometer and contact details of its owner. Various companies offer the service of pulling up this information and presenting it to you in the form of a VIN report.

Instructions

    1

    Choose a company that provides VIN reports, such as Carfax or the Department of Motor Vehicles.

    2

    Order a VIN report and make a payment for it. You can usually pay by credit card. If you need to obtain multiple VIN reports, certain companies might have a membership option that will let you buy each at a lower price.

    3

    Read the VIN report to see the vehicle's history and the locations of the records. For example, the history will show records on registration renewals, emissions inspections and auctions, if applicable.

    4

    Scan the VIN report for the current owner's contact details.

    5

    Contact the current owner of the car to confirm its location and condition. As a VIN report contains the owner's last reported contact details, it is not necessarily an up-to-date record.

How to Build Your Own Motorcycle Carrier

How to Build Your Own Motorcycle Carrier

Build your own motorcycle carrier so that you can transport your motorcycle from the back of a vehicle. There are safety procedures for towing a motorcycle carrier. First and foremost, make sure the placement of the motorcycle in the carrier does not cover the headlights, signal lights, taillights or stoplights of the vehicle towing it.

Instructions

    1

    Place the main frame of the carrier to the vehicle bumper. The carrier has two main parts: the swing arm and the frame.

    2

    Affix the rack on the back of the car where the hook end of the rack curves out and upward, the hook supports the motorcycle. (It helps to have another person hold the rack while you affix it.)

    3

    Measure the distance from your bumper to your motorcycle. Use the measurement to determine how far the motorcycle is, while on the carrier, from the car. Add 12 inches to your measurements and use the hacksaw to cut a piece of metal tubing to the exact length.

    4

    Measure a second piece of tubing 3 1/2 feet long and cut it with the hacksaw. Weld the two metal pieces at a 90-degree angle in the shape of an "L."

    5

    Weld a 14-inch piece of tubing onto the top of the L so the bottom of the L goes into the hitch. It fits into the hitch parallel to your vehicles bumper.

    6

    Weld two 4-inch rods onto the ends of the mounting brace. The motorbike is hung here.

    7

    Insert the metal end of the straps in the space between the body of your motorcycle and the rear of your trunk. Leave the straps loose, so that you can make adjustments to the placement of the motorcycle. (Later on you will tighten the straps to secure the motorcycle to the rack.)

    8

    Pull the bottom left strap straight down into the space between the bumper and the bottom of the trunk, and then insert the metal end of the strap.

    9

    Position the motorcycle rack in the center of your carrier is important, and for that, you need to adjust your rack properly.

    10

    Grasp the loose end of the straps and pull them tight. Brace your hands against the buckles and pull them tight.

    11

    Load the carrier in the following manner. Insert the bars through the crossbars of your motorcycle. Insert foam blocks or pool noodles between the motorcycle and the crossbars to prevent or minimize scraping.

    12

    Tighten and adjust the straps completely now that the motorcycle is loaded.

    13

    Use a U-shaped lock to secure your motorcycle. You can also thread a bungee cord through the motorcycle to connect the hooks at the end for securing the vehicle.

'96 Ford Escort Specifications

'96 Ford Escort Specifications

The Ford Escort is a compact car made for fuel economy. The car came in three trim levels, the Base, LX and GT model. The Escort also came in both two-door and four-door models. The sporty GT line, with its spoiler and ground effects, appealed especially to younger buyers.

Drivetrain

    The Ford Escort had a standard 1.9 liter, four-cylinder engine on its base and LX two-door packages. This engine is capable of 88 horsepower. The GT package comes with a 1.8 liter, 127 horsepower, four-cylinder engine. The Escort comes with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic is optional.

Interior Dimensions

    The 1996 Ford Escort can seat five people in all three trim levels. The two-door models all have these interior measurements. The front headroom has 38.4 inches of room leaving the rear with 37.6 inches of headroom. The legroom in the front is 41.7 inches and 34.6 in the rear. The front shoulder room is 53 inches and 52.6 inches in the rear. The hiproom in the front is 51.3 inches and 46.6 in the rear. The four-door models also seat five, with 38.4 inches in headroom and 37.4 inches in the rear. The front legroom is 41.7 and back is 34.6. The shoulder room for this model is 53 inches in the front and 53.7 for the back seats. The hiproom measurements are 50.4 inches for the front and 48 for the rear.

Exterior Dimensions

    The curb weight for the two-door is 2,385 pounds. The wheelbase is 98.4 inches and the overall length for the car is 170 inches. The width is 66.7 inches. The car seats 52.5 inches high. The four-door models are 2,440 pounds with a wheel base of 98.4. The overall length is 170.9 with a 66.7 inch width. The four-door is 52.7 inches tall.

Fuel Economy and Pricing

    The 1.9 liter four-cylinder gets 31 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon with the manual transmission. The automatic transmission will drop the fuel mileage down to 25 miles in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway. The 1.8 liter with a five-speed manual transmission gets 25 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. The four-speed automatic gets 23 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. The Ford Escort started at $10,065 and went as high as $13,205.

Saturday, September 16, 2017

How to Buy a Used Car From a Private Seller With the Lemon Law in California

How to Buy a Used Car From a Private Seller With the Lemon Law in California

According to Edmunds.com, a lemon---as it relates to transportation---is a vehicle that continues to have defects which substantially impact its safety, use or value. (ref 1) All 50 states use some form of "lemon law." (ref 1)

About the law

    The State of California, in particular, protects its citizens through its lemon laws---the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act and the Car Buyer's Bill of Rights FFVR 35. (refs 2 & 3). The Warranty Act ensures that the conditions of the warranty are satisfied. FFVR 35 addresses contract cancellations, certified vehicles, finance fees and credit score disclosures.

Private Sellers

    According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, the state's lemon laws do not apply to transactions between private parties. (ref 2) The DMV advises consumers having disputes with private sellers to contact an attorney, the Small Claims division of the local county court or the California Attorney General. (ref 2)

Licensed Dealers

    Lemon laws in California apply only to new or used vehicles purchased from a licensed automobile dealer in the state.

    Many provisions apply to both new and used vehicles, but there are some notable differences. For example, dealers unable to satisfy the warranty on a new vehicle must refund the purchase price minus a calculated fee based on the owner's usage; this fee does not apply when dealers buy back used vehicles.

    In addition, two provisions apply only to used car purchases: consumers have an opportunity to obtain a two-day sales contract-cancellation option, and specific requirements exist for cars designated as "certified." (ref 2)

Indiana Laws Regarding an Implied Warranty on Used Vehicles

Indiana Laws Regarding an Implied Warranty on Used Vehicles

Buying a used car can be a blessing or a curse. There are some great deals to be had on used cars, but there is always the fear of getting a lemon. For car shoppers in Indiana, there may be some protection under the law for your used car purchase. An implied warranty is a legal concept mandating that a seller sell you a product that works as advertised. Learning about implied warranty laws in Indiana before buying a used car can help ensure you get the car of your dreams.

Fitness of Purpose

    Under Indiana law, specifically the Indiana Uniform Commercial Code, any product being sold has an implied warranty attached to it. In terms of used cars, this essentially means the seller must sell a car that is fundamentally sound and the vehicle must function for the purpose for which you bought it.
    If you inform a used car dealer that you are seeking to purchase a vehicle that is capable of hauling your boat, and the dealer sells you a car claiming it can do just that, the vehicle must perform as expected. If not, you may be entitled to return the vehicle to the seller.

Warrant of Merchantability

    Under Indiana law, the implied warrant of merchantability dictates that the vehicle shall function properly and be free from material defects that affect its use or safety. Essentially when a dealer sells you a used vehicle, it must be in working condition with no major mechanical or safety defects.
    If a dealer sells you a vehicle with a bad transmission, you may be entitled to the cost of repairs from the dealer. The vehicle must function as advertised, given it's age, condition or mileage. If it doesn't the dealer may be in breach of the implied warrant of merchantability.

Federal Law

    Whether you are in Indiana or any other state, used car purchases are also governed by the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. The Act mandates that, under federal law, all manufacturer warranties, express or implied, must be honored be the seller of a vehicle.
    In order for the warranty to be valid it must be written, but a written warranty cannot circumvent the basic implied warranty of merchantability. Essentially a dealer must honor at least the Indiana implied warranty not just under Indiana law, but federal law as well.

Lemon Law

    If your car is used, but is still covered under the original manufacturer warranty, you may have protection under Indiana's Lemon Law as well. If it is a recently used vehicle, the car must have one or more defects that affects the use, safety or value of the car, appearing within 18 months of the delivery date, or before the first 18,000 miles on the odometer.
    If you purchase a used vehicle in Indiana that is less than 18 months old or has less than 18,000 miles on it, the Lemon Law still applies, even though the vehicle is used.

As Is

    In Indiana, as in most states, sellers of used vehicles can get around the implied warranty by selling the car "as is." When you buy a car "as is" it is sold with no warranty, express or implied, and you take the car as it is, defects and all. Many used car dealers will sell their cars in just this way. However, in order for a car to be sold "as is," it must be clearly noted as such.
    "As is" does not mean the seller can misrepresent the condition of the vehicle. If the seller informs you the engine is in good working condition, and it turns out to have a blown head gasket, you may still be entitled to sue the seller for the cost of repairs.
    Be aware that in Indiana, like many other states, implied warranties do not apply to private sellers, such as sellers in the classifieds. All vehicles purchased from private sellers are typically presumed to be "as is."

Remedies

    If you have purchased a used car and you feel it does not meet the terms of an implied warranty, you may be able to sue the seller in an Indiana court. Depending on the price of the vehicle you may want to sue in small claims court. Go to In.gov/judiciary/ for information on filing a suit in the Indiana court system.
    When bringing a suit for a breach of an implied warranty, the burden is on you to show the vehicle was faulty at the time of purchase. If you are suing for an "as is" purchase, the burden is on you to prove the seller knowingly and materially misrepresented the condition of the vehicle.

Friday, September 15, 2017

How to Decode a 95 GMC VIN

Every road vehicle sold in the United States, including 1995 GMC models, has a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), as mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Department of Motor Vehicles, the Department of Transportation and insurance companies use the 17-character VIN to track recalls, warranty claims and theft. The VIN contains information describing where the vehicle was built and which company built it. You can easily decode a 1995 GMC's VIN.

Instructions

    1

    Locate the GMC's VIN, which is usually on the driver's side of the dashboard where it meets the window or inside the driver's side doorframe. You can also find it printed on the vehicle's title and insurance paperwork.

    2

    Go to a free VIN decoder website like the one run by Decode This.

    3

    Type the VIN into the search box and click on "Decode." Information about the 1995 GMC will appear, including the country where it was manufactured, its make and model, as well as details about the engine size and type.

How to Buy the Best Certified Pre-owned Vehicle

A certified pre-owned car is a used vehicle that has passed a rigorous inspection from the manufacturer and as a result comes with an extension of the warranty. Certified pre-owned vehicles, CPOs for short, are usually priced higher than other used cars because they may have had new tires or brake pads installed if the vehicle needed them. To find out the exact details of what a certain manufacturer's CPO program covers, check its official website.

Instructions

    1

    Decide what vehicle you want: SUV, minivan, sedan, crossover, coupe or sports car. Test drive three similar models to decide which one is best for you. For example, if you want a sedan, test drive a Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima. Check with a reliability guide like Consumer Reports or Edmunds.com to be sure none of the three models has any reliability issues.

    2

    Look into the certified pre-owned programs the manufacturers have to offer. Although some offer different levels of coverage, programs generally include a thorough multipoint inspection and a 1- to 3-year extension of limited warranty coverage.

    3

    Read all the fine print on the certified pre-owned contract. The best place to find this information is on the manufacturer's website. Look for how long your extended warranty lasts and what sort of parts it covers. Many times the warranty will cover only powertrain issues, which essentially means all the oily parts in the engine and transmission. This information will also let you know if the manufacturer will replace brake pads or tires if they are more than half worn. This service is becoming more and more common in the CPO industry.

    4

    Search the manufacturer's website to find models in your area. Say you are looking for a BMW 328i sedan in black. You can input this into the BMW website to find out whether any dealer in your area has that in a certified pre-owned car.

    5

    Call ahead to talk to a finance manager about current rates and specials. Although your CPO model may be on the high end of resale value thanks to its condition and extra warranty, check the Kelley Blue Book value to make sure you aren't being overcharged. You can also use this information as a negotiating tool.

Thursday, September 14, 2017

How to Shop for a Good Deal on a Used Car

How to Shop for a Good Deal on a Used Car

Research is key to finding a good deal on a used car. Some people come across a great deal on the first day of shopping but don't know it because of lack of research. Consider several factors for determining a good deal.

Types

    Determine your criteria for a good deal. Some may just want a low price in comparison with suggested sale values, while some want a hard-to-locate vehicle and would be happy to pay the suggested value. Others may only care about a vehicle that's still under warranty for a certain finance payment. Determine what a good deal means to you, and use it as your shopping criteria before searching so you know what you're searching for.

Time Frame

    If you know what you're looking for, you can find your good deal the first day you set out to search. Others may wait months. If you are desperate for a vehicle, you'll likely settle for a vehicle more quickly. If you have another vehicle to drive, you can allow the process to last as long as you want it to. Allow yourself the time to search updated dealer inventories and private-sale classifieds to find your car.

Considerations

    Don't judge advertisements by pricing alone. If you are within range of $2,000 or so, you may be able to negotiate to your desired cost. A private seller may have the ability to transfer an extended warranty to you. If buying from a dealer, you might have incentives offered to you that are desirable, even if the vehicle costs slightly more than others you've found. Consider dealer perks, such as a standard lifetime powertrain warranty or an included bumper to bumper warranty; some dealers even offer discounted or free oil changes during your ownership, so look at the total costs---including incentives.

'92 Ford L9000 Specifications

The Ford L9000 is designed for heavy loading and hauling. This truck has also been used for other jobs including off-road construction. The large single axle commercial truck is part of Ford's L Series. It was first introduced to the public in 1970, and has become a part of the long line of Ford trucks.

Performance

    The '92 Ford L9000 truck comes with a 260-horsepower diesel engine. A six-speed automatic transmission is included as well as spring suspension. Dual 50-gallon gas tanks are standard. Dual power steering is also included as well as an engine block heater.

Exterior

    Front axle capacity on the 1992 Ford L9000 is 14,060 lbs. The rear axle capacity is 40,000 lbs. The L9000 also includes wheel locks as well as aluminum front wheels and spoke rear wheels. The truck is steel framed and sits on a wheelbase of 204 inches.

Optional

    The option of a 14-foot aluminum dump box is available on the '92 L9000 with an engine block heater. AM/FM radio is included as standard equipment with air conditioning. There's vinyl interior with three-passenger seating.

Wednesday, September 13, 2017

The Best Ten Cars to Buy

The Best Ten Cars to Buy

With so many different vehicles to choose from, declaring a "best" can be a very subjective endeavor. While different publications name their best vehicles annually, the best vehicle for you will ultimately come down to your individual wants and needs. Consumer Reports, known for its objectivity, however, has named the following vehicles its best of 2010.

Sedans

    The first of three sedans among the best ten cars to buy was the top family sedan: the Nissan Altima. The Altima earned high marks for balancing comfort and performance with a 26 miles per gallon (mpg) fuel economy.

    The small sedan of the year went to the Hyundai Elantra SE. The Elantra is a three time winner in its class, and was cited as having a comfortable, quiet and roomy ride.

    The top sports sedan of 2010 went to the Infiniti G37. The G37 sedan made the top ten list four years in a row with its agile handling and luxurious interior cited as two of its defining features. The Infiniti is available in both coupe and convertible versions.

Other Notable Cars

    The Volkswagen GTI topped the list of best sporty cars. The GTI was cited as offering agile handling, responsive steering and a decent sized hatchback. The GTI also offers a fuel economy of 27 mpg.

    If a more environment-friendly car is your style, the Toyota Prius comes in on top as the most fuel efficient car at 44 mpg, while also getting praise for its interior and excellent crash test results.

    The overall best car of 2010 was the Lexus LS 460L. The LS model scored a near perfect 99 out of 100 in Consumer Reports' road test. The Lexus LS460L was lauded for offering a comfortable ride, luxurious comfort and an ultra-quiet interior.

Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs)

    For those looking for a smaller SUV, the 2010 top pick by Consumer Reports was the Subaru Forester. The Forester was touted as providing a carlike driving experience with the size of an SUV.

    For those who prefer a larger, more family-friendly SUV, the Chevrolet Traverse was named best in its class. Comfortable seating for up to eight adults with plenty of cargo room to spare were listed as the Traverse's biggest strengths. A quiet ride was also noted.

Family Hauler/Pickup Truck

    The remaining two vehicles on the top ten lists are the family hauler and the pickup truck. The family hauler of 2010 goes to the Mazda5. This microvan offers three rows of seating, sliding rear side doors and 24 mpg fuel economy.

    Consumers Reports' 2010 pickup of choice was the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. The Silverado is a crew-cab four-wheel-drive that was touted as offering a roomy cabin and a generous payload capacity. Other distinguishing features were listed as its ride and interior.

How to Buy a New Car in France

How to Buy a New Car in France

Buying a new car in France requires residency or proof of application for residency. There are new-car dealers available who offer warranties and other perks such as trade-ins of your old car. The vehicle must be registered under the System d'Immatriculation des Vehicles (SIV), and CO2 emissions play a major role in government taxes or rebates in buying a new car.

Instructions

    1

    Source the car through advertisements online or through newspaper ads. Dealerships in France have online presences, and you can view available models at the dealer's showroom. Dealers offer guarantees on new cars, so check how long these will last and if they offer trade-ins or service deals before buying.

    2

    To buy a new car in France, you need a carte de sejour or proof of application for a carte de sejour, which is a residence permit. You must also present proof of identity, a permit de conduire (driver's license), bank details, insurance details and proof of funds to the dealer.

    3

    New cars in France are registered using a Certificat d'Immatriculation, previously known as a Carte Grise. This document identifies the car owner, the registration number, the vehicles make, model, year of manufacture, chassis number, horsepower and engine number and the car's compliance with European Union technical standards. Putting a new car in your name means applying to the Prefecture, Sous Prefecture or sometimes the local Mairie (mayor's office). In 2009, a new registration system was implemented called the Systme d'Immatriculation des Vhicules (SIV). Car owners no longer have to change registration of the car if they move department, and the car registration remains the same as first registered.

    4

    Since 2007, France applies rebates or extra taxes on new cars depending on their CO2 emissions.

    When a new car with high CO2 emissions is first registered, a once-off ecotaxe is payable. Classes for emissions are 156 to 160 grams of CO2 per Kilometre (gCO2/km), 161 to 195 gCO2/km, 196 to 245 gCO2/km and over 246 gCO2/km. Rates, as of Septmeber 2010, costs from 200 euro to 2,600 euro.

    Low CO2 emitters are classed into under 60 gCO2/km, 61 to 95 gCO2/km, 96 to 115 gCO2/km and 116 to 125 gCO2/km. New cars in these classes qualify for a rebate of from 100 to 5,000 euro, depending on class.

    Trading in a car older than 10 can qualify you for a 500 euro bonus until March 2011, and if you're buying an electric, natural gas, LPG or combination diesel/petrol and electric powered car with emissions of 135 gCO2/km or less, you can apply for a separate 2,000 euro rebate.

    Rebates are approved by sending in the "Bonus Ecologique" form to the Centre National pour l'Amnagement des Structures des Exploitations Agricoles (CNASEA) within three months of buying the car.

1995 GMC Yukon Specifications

The GMC Yukon debuted in 1995 as a somewhat smaller alternative to the enormous GMC Suburban. Also sold as the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Yukon was well-received as a powerful full-sized SUV.

Engine and Performance Specs

    The 1995 GMC Yukon is powered by a 5.7 liter V8 engine that puts out 200 horsepower at 2,000 rpm. It has two ventilated disc brakes with ABS and a gas mileage of 14.7 mpg.

Exterior Specs

    The 1995 GMC Yukon has chrome bumpers and body trim, body moldings, and a front spoiler. It has tinted glass and intermittent windshield wipers. Exterior lighting includes halogen headlights. It also has a rear step and adjustable side mirrors.

Interior Specs

    The 1995 GMC Yukon features a stereo AM/FM radio with four speakers. Interior lighting includes an illuminated ashtray, cargo light, courtesy lights and reading lights. Storage options include cup holders and an illuminated glove compartment. Safety equipment included a driver air bag, seat belts and head restraints. The Yukon also has power steering and a ventilation system.

Tuesday, September 12, 2017

How to Find an Instruction Manual for a Car

How to Find an Instruction Manual for a Car

Ever purchase a used car that doesn't have the manual? As insignificant as a car manual may seem, there are times when it does come in handy. Here are some ideas on how to get a hold of a car manual.

Instructions

    1

    A great way to get a hold of a manual is through your dealership. If it's a Honda, check with your local Honda dealers and see if they have any. You'd be surprised what they have around the office. Unfortunately, this will generally only apply for newer vehicles.

    2

    Your dealership may be able to give you leads on where to go to get one, or may even be able to order one for you. Check with them--let them know your situation and they will most likely be glad to help.

    3

    Do a search on Google. Various parts distributors will sell old automobile manuals. Just do a search for your year, make and model and you'll be able to find some online. I know when the manual was stolen from my car a while back, I was able to get a replacement (I had a leased vehicle, and would have been charged if I didn't have a manual when I returned the car.)

    4

    Good ol' eBay is always a great source, if you don't mind, perhaps, a used or slightly worn copy. This is a great source if you're looking for the manual for an older vehicle.

Monday, September 11, 2017

1994 Ford Taurus Transmission Problems

1994 Ford Taurus Transmission Problems

The 1994 Ford Taurus was the second-generation of this popular mid-size sedan. Among the common mechanical problems that affect this vehicle is one that involves its four-speed automatic transmission.

Most Common Transmission Problem

    The most common transmission problem in the 1994 Ford Taurus is failure of the transmission clutch piston. This condition adversely affects the shifting of gears. The transmission clutch piston issue is not restricted to the 1994 Ford Taurus but affects all second-generation models, from 1992 through 1995.

Other Problems

    Other transmission problems in the 1994 Ford Taurus include jerking motions, rough transmission shifting and transmission failure.

Cost

    As of September 2010, the cost to repair the transmission piston in the Taurus is around $200. Add another $715 for labor.

The Best SUV Lease Deals

The Best SUV Lease Deals

There is a myriad of SUVs and SUV/Crossovers on the automobile market today. With so many different models targeting so many different buyers, there are a number of very attractive lease deals available. Whether you are looking for a small, efficient runabout or a full-fledged luxury SUV with all the bells and whistles, plenty of automakers offer sweet lease deals that are just ripe for the taking.

Nissan Rogue

    The Nissan Rogue was recently named the best SUV in initial quality in its class by J.D. Power and Associate, and for that reason it has very good resale value. Resale value is one of the factors that affects your monthly lease payment. The Nissan Rogue also gets 22 city/27 highway MPG according to EPA estimates, so that should help make it easier for you to make the lease payments for the time you have the vehicle.

Honda Pilot

    You don't need to buy a Suburban or a Tahoe to get spacious seven-passenger seating in an SUV. The Honda Pilot has one of the best-laid-out interiors of any SUV and features one of the smoothest engines in its segment. Highly desirable SUVs like the Pilot often have lower lease rates because the manufacturer wants to move sales more than profits. Sometimes this is just to keep a factory that has too much capacity working more of the time.

BMW X5

    The BMW X5 is one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs on the market and is available with a third row of seats for full-seven passenger seating. A BMW X5 is available with a turbocharged 300-horsepower 6-cylinder engine or is available as a very frugal (17/25) diesel-engined version, for which BMW is always advertising great lease specials.

Sunday, September 10, 2017

How to Find the Build Date for Your Car

How to Find the Build Date for Your Car

You can learn the model year of your automobile from its vehicle identification number (VIN). Not only does the VIN uniquely identify your car as a theft-deterrent, but it also gives you information about the plant and approximate build date of manufacture, the particular vehicle's engine size and other features.

Instructions

    1

    Locate your automobile's vehicle identification number by standing outside the driver-side windshield and looking through the lower corner of the windshield on the dashboard. You'll find the 17-character VIN on a little tin plate riveted to the dashboard.

    2

    Read the tenth character.

    3

    Translate alphabetical characters into model year as follows.
    A-1980
    B-1981
    C-1982

    4

    Skip I, O, Q, U and Z since the VIN system doesn't use them for model year. They look too much like other letters or numbers.

    5

    Start matching numbers to model years starting with 2001. In other words, Y refers to 2000, 1 refers to 2001 and 2 refers to 2002.

    6

    Match up letters to years again beginning with 2010. Therefore 9 refers to 2009, A refers to 2010 and B refers to 2011.

Saturday, September 9, 2017

How to Purchase a GM Extended Warranty

When you buy a new car, you likely will want to protect the purchase for as long as possible. Most people that purchase new or used vehicles from General Motors will have the option to sign up for the GM extended warranty plan. The GM extended warranty coverage is known as the GM Protection Plan and available through GM dealers.

Instructions

    1

    In order to buy GM extended warranty coverage you need to visit a dealer. To locate a dealer, you can use the search feature found on the General Motors website.

    2

    Choose the level of coverage that you want for your GM extended warranty plan. For cars, you can choose between Basic, Value and Major Protection Plans. The Basic plan is the lowest cost plan and will only cover mechanical issues in the engine, transmission, fuel system and drive assemblies. The Value coverage includes Basic coverage and adds parts and labor for major systems within the GM vehicle. The Major plan will cover all components of your GM vehicle.

    3

    Determine the deductible you want on you GM extended warranty plan. A higher deductible will keep the retail price down. Deductible choices range from $0 to $200 for each use of the coverage.

    4

    Decide on the number of years that you wish to maintain the GM Protection Plan coverage. To do this, you need to anticipate the number of years you plan to own the vehicles. On average, vehicle owners will sign up for the extended warranty for 3 to 5 years.

    5

    Include the extended warranty plan from GM into your car payments. If you are financing the car, you can roll the coverage into your loan amount.

    6

    Sign the contracts for the GM extended warranty coverage at the dealership. The terms of your plan will be listed on your copy. Save this information for your records.

Friday, September 8, 2017

How to Purchase a Former Cop Car

There is a certain thrill that comes with driving a former cop car. In addition, you know the municipality maintained these vehicles well because they are driven so hard. Police cars have special equipment so they can keep up with the abuse they take on the streets, and this equipment is still intact when the cars are retired from the police fleet; only special markings and lights are removed.

Instructions

    1

    Locate a dealer who sells former cop cars. Some dealers specialize in these, while others just happen to come across them by chance. This is your best bet for finding one in good condition.

    2

    Attend a car auction. Most cities will auction off their surplus equipment, including former cop cars, although you may need a dealer's license to purchase them. If so, talk to a dealer and tell them your interest. They may be able to accompany you to the auction and place bids for you.

    3

    Inspect any vehicle before you finalize a purchase. Check out the undercarriage to see how much damage it underwent (this is especially important in snowy areas). Bullet holes are common and should be patched to avoid rusting. Any modifications done to the interior, like holes drilled for installation of antennas, should also be taken care of.

    4

    Take it to an auto shop and have the engine thoroughly inspected by an experienced mechanic. The engines of cop cars do get worn out, but in many cases, they have been replaced several times before the car is retired. Thus the odometer reading doesn't matter so much.

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Minnesota Auto Lease Laws

Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson defines leasing as the long-term rental of a car, usually anywhere from two to four years. The attorney general also notes that leasing can be less expensive in the short-term, but continued leasing can potentially cost the lessee more than buying. Any lessee in Minnesota must possess a valid driver's license, as well as automobile insurance.

Payment Agreement

    According to the Minnesota Statutes, when signing the lease agreement, the lessee of the automobile agrees to pay the recognized value of the automobile minus the manufacturer's rebates, residual value of the vehicle and worth of the automobile the lessor takes as trade from the lessee.

Lease Tax

    At the time the lease is signed, the lessor collects a Minnesota-imposed tax on the automobile in full. If the lease can be renewed, the lessor receives the tax upon the signing of the initial term of the lease and each subsequent renewal term of the lease. It is the lessor's right to request the amount of tax due to him or her if a lease is canceled within 90 days or upon an automobile's return to the manufacturer due to safety or deficiency issues.

Registering

    In order to register a leased vehicle, the lessee of a leased vehicle must show either the leasing agreement or power of attorney directly from the leasing company. The lessee also must present his Minnesota tax identification number.

Accidents

    If the lessee is involved in a car accident or faces minor car trouble, the lessee is responsible for paying for the damage out-of-pocket. In the case of a serious car accident that damages the car to the point of complete damage, the lease will be immediately canceled and the lessee is responsible for paying the remainder of the lease without the vehicle.

Tip

    If a lessee does total his leased car, his car insurance should be able to pay for the cost of repairs. To avoid having to pay the remaining cost of the lease, a lessee should purchase "gap insurance" when leasing the car.

Wednesday, September 6, 2017

Vehicles That Qualify for the SUV Tax Break

Vehicles That Qualify for the SUV Tax Break

The Section 179 Deduction is often used to write off vehicles purchased for use by businesses. Vehicles that qualify for deduction must be used for business at least 50 percent of the time. SUV's that qualify for the Section 179 Deduction must be more than 6,000 pounds, but no more than 14,000 pounds, and must be designed for the use of carrying passengers over pubic roads. More than 40 different SUV's meet these specifications.

Chevrolet Tahoe

    In 2008 the Chevy Tahoe was ranked at the top of the list in Motor Week's "Best Large Utility Vehicle." Offering seating for up to nine adults, plenty of room is available for business passengers. In 2010 the Tahoe scored five out of five stars in frontal and side-impact crash tests.

GMC Yukon

    GMC's Yukon is available in either a hybrid version or the original 5.3 liter engine run by gasoline. A fuel flex (capable of running on gasoline or E85 ethanol) version of the 5.3 liter engine is also available. The Yukon highly resembles the Tahoe in its design as well as safety ratings.

Toyota Land Cruiser

    Classified as a luxury SUV, the Land Cruiser comes equipped with a 5.7 liter V8 engine with 381 horsepower along with an array of extras. Keyless entry, sunroof, front and rear parking sensors and a power tilt-and-telescope steering wheel are just a few of these extras. The Land Cruiser is built with Toyota's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System that offers both on and off-road driving capabilities.

    The Section 179 Deduction is often called the "Hummer Loophole." So it's no surprise the Hummer H2 would make Section.org's list of Top 10 "Awesome Vehicles That Qualify as a Business Write Off." Other SUVs on the list include the Cadillac Escalade, Ford Expedition, Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV and Chevy Suburban.

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

The Specifications for a 2006 Impreza WRX STI

In 2002, Subaru decided to release a turbocharged version of its compact car, the Impreza. Dubbed the WRX, the 2006 version was released at the tail end of the car's second generation of production. Despite the 2006 Impreza WRX being overshadowed by more popular offerings from Toyota (the Corolla) and Honda (the Civic), it received praise from car critics as an above-average performance car. The STi sub-trim of the 2006 Impreza WRX is considered the top-of-the-line version.

Engine, Transmission and Fuel Economy

    The 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi comes equipped with a 2.5-liter, 300-horsepower Hemi four-cylinder engine, with 300 feet-pounds of torque. A six-speed manual overdrive is the only transmission available. With a gas tank capacity of around 16 gallons, the 2006 WRX STi has a fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon (mpg) for city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving.

Safety Features

    Power and child safety door locks; vehicle anti-theft system; ABS; trunk anti-trap device; keyless entry; and driver, front side and passenger airbags are some of the standard safety features on the 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. Also, the car has an all-wheel drivetrain, a defining feature of all Subaru vehicles.

Interior Features

    Besides the safety amenities, other standard interior features of the 2006 Impreza WRX STi include power windows, air conditioning, tilt steering with steering wheel-mounted controls, AM/FM/CD player and leather seats. Some 2006 STis may have subwoofers connected to their stereo systems. The cabin is roomy enough to accommodate up to five people.

Exterior Features

    A four-door vehicle, the 2006 Impreza WRX STi features 17-inch alloy wheels. The headlights are HID and automatically switch on during daylight conditions. Other standard features include rear spoilers and power adjustable side mirrors, and some can be spotted with fog lamps. A 2006 WRX STi can come in any of the following six colors: Aspen White, Crystal Gray Metallic, Obsidian Black Pearl, Regal Blue Pearl, San Remo Red and Steel Gray Metallic.

Price

    The original Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price or MSRP was $32,995. As of 2010, the Kelley Blue Book price value of a 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi is in the $23,000 to $24,000 range.

Monday, September 4, 2017

Hyundai Tiburon Wheel Specs

The Hyundai logo may resemble the letter "H," but also symbolizes two people---the company and customer---shaking hands, according to the Hyundai website. The automobile company began in 1967. The Excel was its premier car marketed to the United States. Through the years, the manufacturer has launched a variety of vehicles internationally, including the Hyundai Tiburon (produced from 1996 to 2008).

2008 Hyundai Tiburon GS

    "Though affordable, the 2008 Hyundai Tiburon's age, lack of power and tame handling put it near the bottom of our list for a sport coupe," says Edmunds.com. The Tiburon GS coupe comes with a 2.0-liter in-line four-cylinder engine and generates 138 horsepower. In addition, Kenwood stereo systems and Satellite radios are a standard features in 2008 Tiburons. The standard wheels for the GS are 16-inch aluminum alloy rims with P205/55R16 tires.

2008 Hyundai Tiburon GT

    "The Tiburon ranks in the bottom half of its class because, despite a sporty ride wrapped in an attractive package, it can't match the performance abilities and interior accommodations of competitors," notes the U.S. News & World Report (last updated June 2009, as of October 2010).

    The Tiburon GT features a 2.7-liter V-6 engine that produces 172 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The five-speed transmission is standard; however, Hyundai Tiburon Review has the option of a four-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle comes with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with P215/45VR17 tires.

2007 Hyundai Tiburon GS

    The 2007 Hyundai Tiburon offers "predictable driving dynamics, clean interior styling" and "handling not as sharp as most rivals," according to Edmunds.com. In addition, the vehicle fears a revamp body, including the taillights, exhaust tips and fascias. The 2007 GS has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed stereo and keyless remote entry. The wheels on the Tiburon GS are aluminum 16-inch alloy rims with P205/55R16 tires.

How to Locate the Owners of Pre-Owned Vehicles

How to Locate the Owners of Pre-Owned Vehicles

A certified pre-owned vehicle is a previously purchased automobile obtained by a dealership, often with coverage remaining on the original manufacturer's warranty. Before the sale of a certified pre-owned vehicle, many automobile dealerships will perform an extensive vehicle inspection to guarantee the serviceability of the vehicle. This inspection, combined with relatively low mileage, make the certified pre-owned vehicle an attractive asset in the dealership's inventory. For search purposes, information on the previous owner of the vehicle is readily available through a number of channels.

Instructions

    1

    Contact the dealership that sold the vehicle, and request the names of the vehicle's previous owners. Certified pre-owned vehicles are often covered against mechanical defects by the original manufacturer's warranty. Paperwork outlining the dynamics of the warranty, along with information identifying the original purchaser, should be on file at the auto dealership. Although privacy concerns may prohibit the release of detailed information, you may be able to obtain the previous owner's name and the location of the original vehicle purchase.

    2

    Obtain the vehicle's 17-digit vehicle identification number, or VIN.

    3

    Submit the VIN to a vehicle reporting service using the service's online search tool to gather information on the history of the pre-owned vehicle. This action will generate a detailed report on the vehicle, often returning information on previous sales, title owners, any accidents and vehicle specifications.

    4

    Conduct a VIN, or title, search by visiting your local department of motor vehicles office. Generally a fee-based service, this method of locating previous vehicle owners is provided at many DMV locations for the purposes of a legal investigation and is often used by a licensed private investigator to generate a title history for a specific automobile. Many states require you to complete an application form to begin the certificate of title search. You can find a copy of this form at your local DMV office, or on the Internet via the DMV or department of licensing website. Submit this form with the applicable fee to initiate a title search.