carcarewizards.com Blog

Great Gift Ideas

2006-12-05T08:41-05:00

Date: December 3, 2006

Have you ever wondered what to get that family member that is not as thrilled by car's as you? That friend you really don't know how to shop for? Here are some suggestions.

Try getting something that is practical and the receiver can use, like an emergency roadside kit or even a first aid kit. You can by these things already together or you could take and make it more personal by adding your own things. Put some thought into and purchase things that is within the skill level of the person.

You can always consider purchasing a AAA Membership for the person as well. This will help if they have a flat tire, run out of gas, lock the keys in the car, there are so many things they can use that for.

For more news on Car Care Products visit http://www.carcarewizards.com

BE A HERO WITH AUTOMOTIVE GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS

2006-11-29T10:21-05:00

Date: November 29, 2006

So what do you get the guy who's car is his baby? The answer is simple, you get him stuff the pamper his baby. Automotive related gifts normally make it under the Christmas Tree for that guy on your list. Next to technological gadets, and the standard food and shelter, a man's car is one of his top priorties.

So with the holiday shopping season upon us, here are some great gift ideas for that special guy in your life. It seems that some of the strong selling items this year are emergency kits, battery jumper boxes and gift sets. Most stores will make it easy for you with already specially packaged gift items that usually are priced under $ 25.

Armor All offers a gift pack with power wash gel, tire shine gel, protective wipes, spray wheel cleaner and spray auto glass cleaner for $ 16.99. Everything you need to make your car sparkle. Turtle Wax has a gift set for $ 9.99. Then you can give the gifts that keep the inside straight, such as the Total Car Organizer which is a four piece set for SUVs and minivans. It includes a lightweight canvas storage container with handles that fits neatly in the rear storage area of a SUV or minivan, a door wedge organizer that is portable and slips in and out of the door compartment, a 24 CD/DVD organizer and a seat wedge organizer that fits between the seats and holds small things such as your wallet and cellphone. This set sells for $ 19.99.

Of course you could always go basic with the five-brush Carrand Total Wash package for $ 14.99. There is a wash brush, an interior brush, a tire brush, looped wheel brush and a smaller brush for detail work.

For more news on Car Wash Products visit http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Wax Your Car Properly For A Supreme Finish

2006-11-19T15:11-05:00

by Gregg Hall

The sheen on a showroom car is the item that many people desire. The mirror finish fascinates people of all ages. There is no doubt that a car waxed by a professional, but you can achieve the same look at home without having to pay for an expensive car detailing.

The most important step is to go online and research the different car wax brands. Some brands are mediocre at best, while more expensive brands may not be worth the money. Consumer Reports magazine actually gave Black Magic and Turtle Wax the highest ratings of all the waxes out there. Stick to nonabrasive waxes for best results.

Next, wash your car thoroughly. It is often helpful to wash twice because dirt is hard to find on a wet car. Dry the car completely before waxing. Avoid washing and waxing your car on a hot, sunny day. If it is sunny, make sure you park your car in the shade.

Dampen a sponge and squirt a small amount of wax onto the damp sponge. Aim for an amount that is equal to a tablespoon or so. In a clockwise circular motion, rub the wax over every section of the car. Think of the original "The Karate Kid" movie with the "wax on, wax off" technique. Cover the entire car with the wax and then return to the section where you started.

By this point, the wax should be dry. Cloth diapers are excellent clothes for removing wax. If not, a terry cloth towel will work. In the opposite counterclockwise direction, use small circles to buff the wax off your car. Use a moderate amount of pressure so that you are getting all the wax. Switch clothes or towels periodically so that you are not putting wax back onto your car's surface that causes those pesky streaks we all hate.

When you have finished, take another clean towel or clothe and go back over the entire car one more time. This ensures you do not leave any streaks or wax spots. After two hours, wax can damage a car's paint job. Ensure that you are working quickly enough to get all the wax off. You must be thorough.

If you find a tough stain or mark that washing hasn't removed, waxing often will do the job. Place a layer of wax on the spot and let it dry completely. Buff the wax off and repeat if necessary.

Wash your towels and clothes for future waxings. Use a good quality fabric softener to guarantee that the towel will not scratch your car in the future.

It is simple to have a professional quality wax job on your car. It just takes a little elbow grease and an hour's time. You'll love the end result!

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car care products at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Simple Car Maintenance Tips That Will Keep Your Car Running Properly

2006-11-19T15:09-05:00

by Gregg Hall

If you want to ruin your day, never take the time to property maintain your car's engine. This is a sure fire way to have your car breakdown in the most remote of areas. Instead of tempting fate, why not learn how to keep your car well maintained and working properly.

Check your oil levels every week. Engines run at extremely high temperatures and some models will burn through oil at an alarming rate. You do not want to run dry on oil. This will damage the engine to cease. Once this has happened, you either need a new engine or a new car. Both of these issues are extremely costly. Can you afford to be without your car for a lengthy amount of time?

Change your oil every 3,000 miles. After driving for a certain amount of time, oil becomes dirty and sluggish. Keeping the oil changed regularly reduces dirt circulating in the engine.

Another troublesome issue is the belts. With every oil change, you should have the fan belts and air hoses checked for wear and tear.

Antifreeze should be changed every year. Have a professional flush out the cooling system and replace the tanks with new coolant. This can keep a radiator from developing leaks.

Transmission fluid should be checked regularly. The fluid should be changed every 36,000 miles. If the head gasket leaks, your coolant will leak into the oil system. This is an extremely costly repair, so have them checked regularly to prevent this issue. Always stop first before shifting into drive.

Look regularly in your driveway for leaks. If you spot any, take not of the color of the fluid and then take the car in for servicing. Transmission fluid is pinkish, antifreeze is green, oil is golden brown, and brake fluid is reddish. Knowing which fluid is leaking can help a garage determine the severity of your problem. They can fit you into a busy schedule if the leak is potentially hazardous.

To keep your air conditioning system working properly, run the system every month, even in the winter. The same is true with the heating system. It should be run in the summer to prevent any seizing.

Try to brake in advance. Sudden stops wear down brake pads far more quickly. Have your brakes checked regularly for wear and tear.

Tires should be rotated every 7,000 miles. Inspect them visually every month for tire wear, punctures, and bulges.

Pay attention to your battery. If you see white deposits forming on the terminals, clean them with a wire brush and then clean the battery with a mixture of baking soda and water.

Keep your car rust free by keeping it waxed once per season. Have the undercarriage washed at least twice a year.

Use WD40 to keep door hinges well lubricated. This keeps doors opening and closing properly.

Follow your car manual's recommended maintenance schedule. This guarantees the warranty will cover costly repairs, but also prevents unexpected breakdowns.

All it takes is a few simple checks every month, and you can protect yourself from breaking down in an unfamiliar or remote area. Your safety is that important isn't it?

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car care at http://www.carcarewizards.com

A Look At Some Of The More Promising Alternative Fuels

2006-11-19T14:01-05:00

by Gregg Hall

With so many countries cutting back on energy use, there are many governments looking for alternative sources of fuel, especially with the rapidly climbing gas prices. The US is working harder than ever to get other sources of power onto the market. Experts say that not only are gas (octane) fuels pollutant, but the supplies buried beneath the earth are dwindling quickly. Now, with the anxiousness of a fuel crunch looming over our heads, America is finally stepping up and trying to find some other way to fuel our mechanical marvels. Here are the top candidates for alternative fuel king.

Bio diesel is the result of the European effort to remove a considerable amount of the polluting attributes of diesel fuel. This has created a 60% reduction in hydrocarbons, a 40% reduction of carbon monoxide, and a 40% reduction in particulates. Bio carbon is produced from raw materials called feedstock. This material absorbs carbon monoxide in an amount equal to the amount the car using the fuel emits. With this new diesel fuel, diesel engines are working at 50% higher fuel efficiency than normal gas powered engines

Ethanol is, by far, the most popular of the alternative fuels. Ethanol has a very down home farm essence to it as it is made from starch producing plants like corn. Yes, corn is the fuel of the future, although some producers prefer sugar to corn in the ethanol making process. Today, most of the information you hear about ethanol is the E85 mixture, which is a mixture of 85% ethanol, and 15% gas. This alternative fuel can only be used in vehicles especially designed for them as well as vehicles that are 22 E85 compatible. Using ethanol can reduce smog production up to 50%, gas can't say that much. Unfortunately, despite E85's smog emission reduction it is still contributing to ozone depletion, although many experts disagree, and still others have no idea how it happens in the first place.

CNG, or Compressed Natural Gas, is another of the top candidates for the king of alternative fuels. In comparison to gas, CNG comes from domestic, not Middle Eastern Reserves, burns cleaner, and is cheaper. Unfortunately, vehicles that run on CNG require some changes which include: storing natural gas in pressurized tanks, burning the CNG with a modified combustion engine, and it is more economical than gas burning engines. Although, CNG cars emit fewer smog emissions than Hybrid cars, they release more greenhouse gases than Hybrid cars as well.

Besides these top 3 candidates for alternative fuel king, there are other less developed methods. There is liquid coal, which will be too costly to use. There is hydrogen fuel, which will also be costly, because hydrogen isn't naturally found. Fuel cell technology, which sounds a lot like Star Trek, is light years away from being developed. As of now, the hybrid vehicle is probably your best bet as far as fuel efficiency, and fuel alternative. Unfortunately, it doesn't cure us of our dependency on gas. The king of alternative fuel may soon be crowned, but that soon is far away.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as paint protection at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Does Running Your Car's Air Conditioner Really Affect Gas Mileage?

2006-11-19T13:59-05:00

by Gregg Hall

When it gets warm outside, your air conditioner becomes your best friend. This is most definitely true in your car, where temperatures can sky rocket to 170 degrees under direct sunlight. But most people these days are under the impression that the more you run your air conditioner the more gas your car will guzzle. Now that gas prices are higher than the cost to eat at McDonald's, people are starting to take precautions and do what they can to help with their cars fuel economy. The assumption that running your air conditioner burns way more gas is somewhat untrue. Leaving your air conditioner off makes barely any difference in the amount of gas you burn. With the advent of modern, more fuel efficient cars, this myth is busted!

The air conditioner draws its power from the engine which uses some gas, but with today's cars, this use of gas is minute. The AC in your car can decrease the fuel economy of your car up to 20% in some vehicles, but it depends on the type. Driving with the air conditioner is more fuel efficient than driving with the windows down. Driving with the windows down creates drag which means that your engine has to work harder to keep your car at the current speed; this burns more gas than if you just ran your AC.

In the long run, using your AC is far better than any other means of cooling yourself off in the car, unless you're driving in traffic. When you drive in traffic you aren't going very fast so the drag on the car is minimal. In these cases, you burn more fuel running the air conditioner than having the windows down. That makes sense. When you drive on the highway you can use either the AC or the "window down" method to cool yourself, because, honestly, there is no noticeable difference in gas usage at those speeds.

Here are some tips about you and the heat in your car. Before you get into a hot car, roll down the windows and let it air out. There is nothing worse than getting into a hot car, sitting on a lava hot seat, touching a super hot steering wheel, and breathing stuffy super heated air. Your car needs some time to cool down for itself and for you. Once you believe it is cool enough to actually sit on the seat, turn on the car and run the air conditioner on recirculation. This will help the car cool down much quicker, and you can be on the road fast without sacrificing a layer of your precious skin.

So now that you know the air conditioner can be your fuel efficient friend, maybe you won't be so quick to turn it off or ignore it in favor off putting the windows down and choking on bugs. The AC in your car burns much less gas than your window method, so give your air conditioner a chance and be cool in the heat.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car wax at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Use The Internet To Help You Save On Fuel

2006-11-19T13:42-05:00

by Gregg Hall

Okay, so you already know all the ways to help save on gas, However, I bet you have never thought of going online! There is tons of data on local and international gas prices and the closest gas stations online.

The internet can help you research gas station options, and allows you to compare gas stations for the best prices. There are tons of sites that can give you the current prices at the pumps in your area. Google "fuel prices" and find the site you want to use. In most cases, all you have to do is enter your 5 digit zip code, and Voila! You have the prices for the gas stations in your area. Your buddies at GasBuddy.com advises that you should stay away from high income neighborhoods and highways where the gas stations hike the prices based on the demand and the price people are willing to pay. Try more out of the way gas stations; they are more likely to have the least amount of gas inflation.

Triple A can also help you find the lowest prices on gas in your neighborhood. All you have to do is enter in the necessary information into the "Fuel Price Finder" and you will be given a list of all the stations in your area and the price of the gas. This particular service gets its data from the OPIS which gathers data from pumps around the country.

Since this service is offered online just go to Triple A's site (www.aaa.com) (Alexa) and enter in your zip code and you will be taken to the Triple A chapter in your area. This device is a wonder if you are planning on taking a road trip or just a trip to the store. You can use this tool to calculate your gas costs based on the address information you provide, and the make, model, and year of your vehicle.

Fuel maximizing devices are in great want for trucking companies and truck drivers. The demand for the maximizing devices has risen to over 450% in the past year. The main reason for this increase is that people are buying them online. Fuel routing devices were once exclusively used by trucking fleets, but now that they are available online, everyone is clamoring to get one.

With all the sites offering the everyday person fuel saving advice, its no wonder that the internet is the driving force behind the battle against the monster of fuel inflation. You can research gas saving tips, alternative means of transportation, or even cars with better gas mileage. You can poke around the internet and find sites that can give you a list of reasons why your gas competency is less than desirable. If you are completely clueless about how to save money on gas, then the internet is your brain food! Everything you need to know is right there at your fingertips. It's a tool that few use for gas saving purposes, so tell someone about it and maybe they'll let you carpool with them.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car care products at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Gas Prices Driving You Nuts? Look At These Tips To Help Save At The Pump

2006-11-19T13:38-05:00

by Gregg Hall

Gas prices today are ridiculous. Many wish for a return to the days when gas was only $.75 a gallon. Unfortunately, those days are over and now gas prices are higher than ever. The prices of gas are hitting people where it hurts; in the pocket and in their social lives. Many families, in an effort to save money, have cut out after school activities and make their kids ride to school with someone else's mom. Despite the fact that cutting out all the fun in your lives is to help you save money, there are other ways to save at the pump that won't have you indoors all the time.

A huge reason why some people lose money at the pumps is that they are using the wrong kind of gas. Gas comes in three different levels of octane, regular, high grade, and super. Normally, cars can operate fine on the lower octane level. The regular grade is the cheapest, but when your engine starts to "ping" you should consider upgrading to the next level of octane. The difference in price between the two levels is a few pennies, but when your tank holds 40 gallons of gas, that can be a lot of pennies.

How your car is running and is maintained is also big deal when it comes to saving money on gas. Keeping your engine tuned, your fuel filters clean, fluid levels high, and changing your spark plugs, all adds precious fuel efficiency to your car. Want some proof? Well, when your engine is properly tuned you can get 4% more mileage out of your car. That is a lot of fuel in the long run.

Another gas saving innovation is oil changes. Changing your oil every 3,000 miles isn't a big money making scheme thought up my big oil companies, (like my wife likes to think), it helps save money on gas. When your engine is properly lubricated, it runs more efficiently, lowering the amount of fuel it consumes. This is all so logical, people. The kind of oil you use should be the best kind for your type of vehicle.

If you drive like a maniac, you are probably getting bad gas mileage. The faster your car goes, the more fuel it uses. Going 60mph or lower, (driving at speed limit in most cases), will help you keep your gas consumption down. A good idea for long trips is to use your car's cruise control. This will help you maintain the right speed throughout the trip. When you let your car sit idling you are wasting gas. Not only are you making the hole in the ozone layer bigger, you are wasting money. If you know that you are going to have to wait for a long time, turn your car off and just listen to the radio. Using your car's overdrive feature will help you save gas on the highway where speeds are over 35mph.

Now that you know there are different and better ways to save gas, than being a hermit and miser, go out and do what you want without worrying about paying more at the pump.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car care products at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How Maintaining Your Tires Properly Will Save You Money

2006-11-19T13:35-05:00

by Gregg Hall

For all of you out there that are grumbling about the ever rising price of gasoline, how many of you have truly considered ways that will save your precious fuel. Sure, you probably considered car pooling or maybe are even actively doing it. Others will swelter in the summertime, afraid that using the air conditioner will increase the amount of fuel that is consumed. The question is have you ever considered if your tires are costing you gas money?

When your tires are correctly inflated, it can save you money. If your tires are under inflated, they are pliant and cause too much friction with the road. This causes your engine to work extra, driving up your gas needs. If they are too soft they can lower your gas mileage by .4 percent for every pound in drop of pressure. According to the Department of Energy, correctly inflated wheels can increase your gas efficiency by 3 %. When your wheels are correctly inflated they will offer you a smoother ride, better vehicle handling, and better gas mileage. If you don't know what the proper pressure is for your car, you can find that information on the inside of the glove compartment, or your car manual. The label will list a PSI, and you should use the highest number possible to increase your gas efficiency. Not only should your wheels have the right PSI, they should also be evenly inflated.

When cold weather rolls around, your wheels will need some TLC. When the temperature drops 10 degrees your tire pressure drops 1 lb, which adds to the rolling resistance. If the pressure drops quickly, it is recommended that you check your tire pressure with a store bought PSI gauge.

Correct tire alignment will also help in gas economy. Your wheels should be aligned at least once every 12 months. If your wheels aren't lined up straight they will drag and not roll correctly, which adds to the resistance and increases your gas consumption. Balancing your wheels is a good idea too. When your car's tires are out of balance you will feel strong vibrations as you steer. These vibrations will lead to a shortened suspension life and uneven wear on your wheels.

When you rotate your wheels you are saving even more money at the pump. When your wheels are rotated you are distributing the wear more evenly throughout all 4 wheels. You can find the recommended rotation for your vehicle in its manual. The type of tire you choose for your car also affects your car's gas economy. Before you replace your wheels you should take into consideration the kind of car you have and which wheels will do the best job. Consulting the owner's manual is a helpful idea that can take the guess work out of tire shopping. The best attributes of a replacement tire are low rolling resistance and durability.

When your wheels are properly maintained you will see a difference at the pump, putting more money in your pockets and less gas in your tank!

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

If You Want A Hybrid Vehicle, Get In Line And Wait

2006-09-09T12:25-04:00

by Gregg Hall

As gas prices have gotten higher, so has the demand for Hybrid cars. Used Hybrids are in as great a demand as the new ones. Because of this demand, the dealers are having a difficult time filling all of the requests for them. Large vehicles such as SUVs used to be very popular, but they consume a large amount of fuel and with the high cost of gasoline, the cost to fuel them has made them less desirable. Now, they are being traded in with the hopes that they can be replaced by the fuel friendly Hybrid.

Toyota, the maker of Prius has been working non stop to increase production of the vehicles. They estimate that approximately 22000 are on backorder. During the 2004 calendar year alone, they estimate that there were 36000 Prius cars available and that's just in the United States. After the car made its way onto the market, that figure has increased to more than $47000.

If you want one of these vehicles, join the crowd. There are long waiting lists for them and those lists are growing. Part of the reason for the demand, is their fuel efficiency. One of the ways it saves on fuel is that it idles less and uses less fuel. It also gets better gas mileage, sometimes as much as 15 more miles to the gallon than their conventional cousins.

Another reason for their popularity is that they are not just fuel efficient but they are also environmentally friendly. They also produce up to 90 percent fewer emissions, which helps to protect air quality. They come in attractive styles and colors that make consumers feel good driving them as well as making a positive contribution to the environment.

Naturally, when a product is in great demand, the cost for them will be higher. It is not uncommon for new Hybrid vehicles to sell for considerably more than their listed price. The same applies for the used ones. Some of their prices have actually surpassed those of the new models.

There are a few tips you can try to get your car at a lower price and maybe even in a less amount of time. If you have always used one dealership, check with them first. Since you have given them business in the past, they might be able to give you preferential treatment. On the same token, different dealerships might have a less waiting time than others, so call around to see if that's the case.

You should also consider going outside of your area to buy one. Not every area has as high a demand as yours might. Do the research and if it's cost effective go out your way to obtain one, then definitely consider this option.

Stay flexible when it comes to style and color, if you hope to obtain one quickly. You might have to wait longer if you're determined to get the exact one that you want.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Car Care Supplies at http://www.carcarewizard.com

Why Hybrid Automobiles Require Less Maintenance Than Conventional Cars

2006-09-09T12:22-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Hybrid cars are getting a lot of attention from consumers looking to purchase a new car. One reason is that they use less gas and therefore save you a lot of money at the pumps. However, their popularity is not just based on their fuel saving design, they also require less maintenance than that of their conventional cousins.

It can be frustrating to have to take time off from work to go to the mechanic for maintenance checks and repairs. It is equally frustrating to use up part of your weekends for this as well. Owning a Hybrid helps you to avoid this frustration, thanks to their unique design. There are various features that contribute to these benefits.

One reason is that they have fewer parts than conventional cars. For example, the Hybrid vehicle does not have a starter. A car that has fewer parts requires less maintenance and less maintenance means less expense. Another important factor is that the engine is smaller, between 10 to 20 horsepower and designed to run more efficiently by using only one speed.

The generator runs on a separate, gas powered motor and contributes to the lesser need for maintenance. It also does things that conventional vehicles need additional parts for. The generator handles 80 percent of the braking, which helps to extend the life of the brake system. It does this in several ways, such as preserving brake fluid. Brake fluid can be contaminated by the effects of over heating, so by minimizing the heat exposure, the life of the brake fluid is extended. The lesser heat usage also helps reduce the risk of warped rotors. By the generator taking on more tasks, the battery usage is less and therefore will have to be replaced less often.

Another great feature that the design offers is that the air conditioner runs off of electricity and not gas. The steering system is superior in that it is also electric and does not require a belt the way hydraulic systems do. It also provides a smoother ride on rough road surfaces.

Other maintenance saving features are that the valve system requires no adjustments and the injectors don't have to be cleaned.

Hybrid vehicles offer longer warranties that also include the battery. This definitely adds to their attraction. The Prius, offered by Toyota, offers an eight year or 100,000 mile warranty that includes the hybrid system. The Honda Insight warranty offers 8 years or 80,000 miles and includes the power train.

When considering purchasing a new vehicle, definitely think about owning a hybrid. They require less maintenance than the conventional cars and therefore save you money and time spent at the auto shop. They are much more fuel efficient, and offer attractive warranties.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about this as well as Car Care Wizards at http://www.carcarewizard.com

Some Common Car Salesman Tricks To Watch Out For

2006-08-13T00:33-04:00

by Gregg Hall

If you have ever bought a car then I am sure you have seen some of the things I am about to talk about here. The key is to be aware of them and know how to counter them.

The dance begins on the car lot where the salesman or pack of salesman jumps you as soon as you get out of your car. Personally, if they do this to me I just leave. Anyway, when they approach you it usually starts like this. Hi, I'm Johnny ShowroomShark, are you looking for a car or truck today?" You answer, they begin to lead you around and show you what they want to show you. One way to take control immediately and put them off balance is to say "I just want to look around by myself" and take control. This is a big issue with car dealer management; they ALWAYS want to be in control.

Next, assuming you find something you like they will now have you come inside to see what kind of price they can get you, if you balk they may say well just come in and let me get you one of my cards then. What will happen in that case is that you will then be introduced to a closer who will do everything possible to get you to sit down and talk about making a deal.

If you are interested in negotiating on a car, here are some other things to watch out for. One trick that salespeople will use is to ask for your driver's license so they can make a copy. Don't give it to them; they will use this as leverage when you are getting ready to leave. Beginning the negotiation process watch out for trick closing questions, the most popular of these is a variation of "If I could would you?". It goes like this, "If I can get $1,000 off the price will you buy today?" or "If I can get your payments under $300 per month can I earn your business today?" All of these are psychological closing questions designed to get you to commit to a certain figure. One way to counter this is to come back at him with questions such as, "If I am willing to buy today will you sell me the car for $1,000 under invoice?" If you have educated yourself on cost, rebates, dealer holdback, etc. as I suggest you do, you can lay all this on him too. Most salespeople will be completely overwhelmed and dumbfounded that you actually know the cost of the car better than they do!

Another trick is to hit you with astronomical payments and down payments. For example, they may give you on a $20,000 car a down payment of $5,000 and then $450 per month when it should be maybe $2,000 down and $350 per month. One method you should watch out for is called the "4 square". It works like this; the salesperson will have a piece of paper divided into four equal parts. In the top left will be the retail price of the vehicle, in the upper right may be the down payment, the lower left for your trade, and the bottom right the monthly payment figure. This system has been used for years to make profit in the car business. Again, the best way to counter this is to take control yourself and don't play their game. If you want the car you tell them what you will do and if they don't meet your demand get up and leave.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. For the best in quality car care products go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Get The Most For Your Trade In

2006-08-13T00:27-04:00

by Gregg Hall

If you drive up to a car dealership in the vehicle you intend to trade you are setting yourself up to be taken, unless you have done your research first. One of the first things a salesperson will want to know is whether you are trading or not. The reason for this is so they will know what they have to work with as they are showing you vehicles. This is especially dangerous if you are looking at a used vehicle since there is generally no price displayed so they can name whatever price they want.

In order to be sure you aren't being taken on a trade in you should do a couple of things first. If you go to Kelly Blue Book online and honestly input the information on your vehicle you will get a fairly good representation for what it is worth. The dealer will give you somewhere between loan and trade in value depending on what kind of vehicle you have. The other thing to do is to take your car around to several dealers and tell them you want to sell it outright and get them to give you a price they would buy it for. This will usually be a bit lower than what you could actually get on a trade in but this in combination with the internet research will keep you from getting totally robbed.

The other thing to take into consideration in deciding whether or not to trade is the tax implications. In most states there is a sales tax on vehicles which can be substantial. If your trade in is a fairly new model it may be more beneficial to trade due to the tax benefit (You are only taxed on the difference). If you have an older vehicle you may get more money by selling it outright. In either case, you will usually get more money by selling the vehicle yourself. You have to see what you can get and weigh the benefits of selling it yourself versus the benefit of the tax savings.

Have your vehicle detailed. It will usually cost you around $100 or so to have your vehicle professionally detailed but it can get you several hundred more dollars in trade in or resell value. As a former car appraiser and buyer myself I can tell you, the cleanliness and appearance of a car is very influential in the price given for it. I have appraised cars that I wouldn't even sit in because they were so filthy and yet once we cleaned them we made a fortune on them because they were worth far more than I paid. I will say it again; get your vehicle professionally detailed.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. For patented quality car care products for your vehicle go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

When To Buy A New Car

2006-08-13T00:24-04:00

by Gregg Hall

This is a question that many new car shoppers wrestle with constantly. How do I know when is the best time to buy a vehicle? It is hard to discern, especially when we are constantly under a barrage of advertising from dealers claiming "This weekend only, the best deals of the year!"

If you fall in love with a particular vehicle and develop a "gotta have it" mentality you will end up paying too much. Just think back to the Mazda Miata, the Dodge Viper, and even the Dodge Ram of 1995. All of these vehicles had addendums or add on prices on top of the window sticker and people were getting on waiting lists to buy them! The Miata and the Viper sold for as much as $5,000 over sticker and often there were people standing in line to pay it. My advice is wait, wait until the initial excitement and fervor has calmed down to where you can negotiate a reasonable price. A couple of other considerations are the following: Some new models have bugs that may be worked out over the first three or four months and also if the sales aren't what was expected the factory may come out with rebates which will save you big money.

From the standpoint of the best time of the month to buy, the end of the month you can usually get a better deal. The reason for this is that most dealers set quotas for their mangers and salespeople to meet and they will usually do whatever it takes to get the deal so they can meet their quota. Just be sure of the expiration of any incentives that may exist on the vehicle you are interested in.

Beware end of the year sales. Why do I say this? Most dealers are going to make the same amount on a car at the end of the year as they would at the beginning, unless you can practically steal the vehicle I don't suggest buying at the end of the year when the next year's models are coming in. You are getting a car that is already one year old, even though it may have no miles on it, it is still going to be worth thousands of dollars less immediately.

In general some time in the middle of the model year is the best time of the year to buy. If you want a really good deal don't go looking on the weekend when the dealer is overflowing with customers. Go shopping late at night right before the dealer is going to close or go shopping when it is cold or rainy. When the customer traffic is slow, the dealer will do more to make the deal.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. For quality car care products go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

Tips When Buying Insurance On Your Sports Car

2006-08-13T00:22-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Insuring a sports car can be a relatively expensive proposition. Sports cars generally require higher premiums than other automobile types, and the sports car owner can expect some sticker shock when learning just how much it costs to insure a high performance vehicle. Additionally, most sports car owners want full-featured coverage for their prized possessions. Although insuring a high-end sports care will never be price competitive with insuring a traditional family sedan, there are a few things sports car owners can investigate in order to save on their insurance bills. Following these four tips, for instance, can help a sports car owner keep his or her insurance premiums lower without forcing any compromise in coverage levels.

Initially, one should check to see if any organizational memberships might reduce your insurance rate. Often, membership in national organizations can reduce your costs. Educators, government employees, labor union members and others are often eligible for discount rates but never get them because they don't realize it. Always ask your agent if there are any group memberships that can bring your cost down.

Specifically, membership in a sports car club can have a favorable impact of the size of your premium. Insurance companies often offer a reduced premium rate to particular groups of sports car owners in hopes of securing a large volume of customers.

Second, one should always conduct price comparisons. It doesn't take long to call other insurance providers and determine their rates to insure your sports car. You may find an unexpected bargain from an unlikely source, so it always pays to fully investigate your options. There are services available that will compare rates between multiple insurance providers; these can be a great place to start your price shopping. However, you may benefit from placing direct calls to various agents representing different insurers. Often, an agent, armed with the unique information you can provide, may be able to come up with a cost-saving insurance plan for your sports car.

Third, you may benefit by bringing multiple policies to the same agent. Many insurance companies can reduce the cost of your sports car's insurance if you also using them for health, life, homeowners or renter's insurance. Simply having all of your vehicles insured by the same agent can reduce your premium costs. You can often save a considerable sum by keeping as much of your insurance business as possible "under one roof." The savings may not be directly applied to your sports car automobile insurance. Instead you may find cost savings applied to another policy as a byproduct of bringing all of your business to the same agent.

Finally, ask your agent about special programs or courses that can reduce your insurance premium costs without sacrificing appropriate coverage. For instance, some companies offer discounts for those willing to take online mini-courses on defensive driving. If a student is driving a car, there may be reduced premiums offered for good grades. Some companies will offer to reduce your rate after a specified length of time if you remain accident-free. Any program of this sort might be a helpful means of decreasing the cost of your sports car insurance coverage.

It is essential to carry adequate insurance for your sports car. Skimping on coverage can hold your costs down, but may leave you inadequately protected. Alternatively, smart insurance shopping and an exploration of cost-saving options may allow you to afford sufficient coverage for your sports car at a rate far lower than you might have expected.

By remembering to ask for group specials, comparison shop, consider taking all of your business to one agent, and inquiring about special programs that might be a good fit, you can conceivably save a surprising sum on your sports car insurance coverage.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get quality car care products at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Why Are We In Love With Sports Cars?

2006-08-13T00:19-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Why do so many of us find sports cars irresistible? Few objects inspire the emotional attachment that sports cars do among auto enthusiasts. There are always dedicated fans of almost every technology, but sports car fans band together in clubs, spend a significant percentage of their free time preoccupied with their car, and may even begin to create a self-definition that seems to be centered upon their favorite auto.

There is something about sports cars that makes them uniquely attractive to many drivers.

Of course, it would be impossible to isolate exactly what it is about a well-designed sports car that engenders such attachment, but there are some factors that would logically contribute to the commonly seen love affair between men and their sports cars.

Initially, it seems as if much of the attraction is grounded in symbolism. Sports cars have long been portrayed as sources of freedom. Drivers are left unencumbered by the limitations of other automobiles are seen as having a uniquely free and flexible life on the open road. This notion of freedom is intensified when one considers convertible sports car offerings. In such circumstances the driver is not boxed in like others. He can tackle any road while being completely open to the elements.

Additionally, the allure of sports cars lies in their innovative technology. We live in a world that worships at the altar of technological advances. The sports car is a moving amalgamation of technical expertise. Sports cars are a bundling of technological miracles. From aerodynamic styling to compact yet powerful engines, they represent the cutting edge of technological design. In a society entranced by technology and innovation, the sports car has an iconic appeal that is difficult to equal.

Sports cars also represent the flipside to our technological obsession. Although we, as a society, crave more and better tech we also fear these developments will diminish our humanity. Some have even argued we have an underlying fear of losing control over our own advances. The sports car simultaneously represents our technological prowess while reassuring us we retain dominion over our creation. Sports cars are built to respond the driver. In fact, they are sold as being the most responsive cars available. The driver is left in ultimate control. Man creates the new technology and harnesses it. It is the perfect version of our technological dream in action.

Finally, the sports car appeals to man's desire to reassert his strength in a world that no longer requires physical prowess. Humanity has grown softer and the need for violent power to function successfully has been reduced to near zero. The sports car provides an alternative means of expressing whatever hard-wired tendencies toward strength and prowess that may be lurking in the deep recesses of the human mind. The sports car is an embodiment, after all, of the human physical traits once needed for survival in leaner times. Speed and power are combined and become a proxy body for the driver placed behind the wheel.

The sports car, it would seem, is a perfect object of affection. It allows us to explore our concept of freedom. It shows us our continual technological advancement while simultaneously reassuring us that we can keep our new technologies under our control. Meanwhile, the sports car acts a proxy body for us to express a seemingly instinctive need for demonstrating physical prowess.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get the car care products you need at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Wearing A Safety Belt Isn't Just For Your Safety

2006-08-06T21:25-04:00

by Gregg Hall

When the mandatory seat belt law came into effect in my state of Florida at first I thought it was ridiculous. I mean, who does the government think they are to tell me I have to wear my seat belt? I obviously wasn't alone; I had a lot of friends who were ticketed for not wearing a seat belt. Well, I have to admit that I have probably been saved twice from them. The first time I fell asleep at the wheel driving home late one night from an auto auction and I rolled the car several times and ended up in between pine trees with all the windows busted out and half of the roof caved in. I walked way from it. The second time I was hit from the rear while driving a full size extra cab truck, the truck was totaled, I had injuries but could have been killed. The seatbelt kept me from going through the windshield.

Our first notion when we are told that we must do something or else, is to rebel against those who are commanding us even though it may be for our own good. The statistics speak for themselves, seat belts save lives. The old excuse of "If I don't wear a seat belt, I will be thrown clear of the wreckage" doesn't fly. If you get thrown from a vehicle you will probably die or at the least be crippled. In a report from 2002 well over 70% of those ejected from a vehicle died and it was said that of 33,000 passengers killed, nearly 60% were not wearing seat belts. The primary cause of death in ages four to thirty four is car accidents.

Another common excuse is that the seat belt is uncomfortable. This is not a good excuse either. Seat belts today have a range of adjustments to make them more comfortable no matter what size you are. Besides, it isn't nearly as uncomfortable as a neck brace, or a coffin.

Another thing people say is they have never been in a wreck, that they are a safe driver. Remember my story from above, it wasn't my fault when I got hit from behind and even though I had neck and back injuries because I was hit so hard I could have very easily been taken away with a sheet over my head. The odds are against you, in a 10 year period 80% of drivers will be in an accident.

Don't think that airbags alone will save you either. You have probably heard of people being killed by airbags. It usually happens because the person wasn't wearing their seat belt and the airbag hit them right in the face at 200 mph.

Don't care for your safety? What about the safety of those in the vehicle with you? People don't stop to think about that. If you are in the car without a seat belt on and you have someone in the car with you, particularly a child who is smaller, the force of your body being thrown into them could kill them. That fact alone should be enough to make you buckle up.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. To keep your car looking new go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

The Credit Rebuilding Car Sales Scam

2006-08-06T19:02-04:00

by Gregg Hall

With the rise in bankruptcies, repossessions, and general bad credit in the United States it has given birth to a whole new segment of the car business that is designed specifically to prey upon these types of people. That's right I said prey upon. If you see slogans like "Credit Doctor" or "We Finance Anyone" run away! Well, at least be careful. Dealerships have learned over time that people who know they have credit problems will not argue or haggle as much as someone who does not have credit problems.

This is why every major automotive dealership now has a bad credit department. They have developed special sales techniques and they have fulltime "credit doctors" to work with people who have or even think they have bad credit. They advertise in the newspaper and on the radio that the credit doctor will help you fix your credit. You've heard the ads, "Good Credit, Bad Credit, No Credit, if you have a job and $99 down we can get you financed!"

The industry has now evolved to the point where they actually have establishments that exist solely to cater to the bad credit customer. They promote themselves as if they are doing the public some big favor but unfortunately this is far from the case. These dealers exist to make as much as they can off of people who are already in financial trouble.

The way these new dealerships operate is that they have sub par vehicles that a conventional dealership will not sell and they have in house financing as well as aggressive venture capitalist financing that enables them to command huge profits and charge outrageous interest rates.

Whether or not it is a dealership with a "credit doctor" department or a stand alone full time bad credit dealership they work in the same way. They seek to get the maximum amount of profit that they possible can from you by maxing out the profit in the car, getting you to borrow from a credit card, whatever it takes to increase the profit and then on top of that they will charge whatever your state maximum credit rate is which could be 28% or more. By the time it is all said and done you may pay $15,000 for a $5,000 car!

This is the absolute worst that the automotive industry has to offer, but until legislators step in and do something about it the secondary finance business will remain in place.

The Credit Check Scam In The Car Business

2006-08-06T18:59-04:00

by Gregg Hall

The car business is probably one of the only businesses left where sleazy sales tactics are still rampant. I know time share and siding salespeople are bad too. But it isn't on near the scale as the car business is.

One of the bigger control scams out there now is the credit check scam, which starts just about as soon as you sit down at a desk with the salesman. It typically begins like this, they begin to fill out an offer form and then they will ask you for a deposit to show that you are serious about buying the vehicle. This line is used at just about every dealership and in many dealerships they will not even allow the salesman to do any kind of negotiation without a deposit.

So what is the purpose of the deposit? You may think that you are giving then a check in agreement to buy at a certain figure but to them it is just another means of control. And the thing about it is they aren't shy about how much they ask for. They used to ask for a $50 deposit now they ask for $3,000 or $4,000! Even though this is a slick trick and they may even call it an initial investment it isn't the worst thing they are going to try to pull.

The next slick little trick is for the salesperson to ask for you driver's license and social security number and take down some information like your address and phone number, Now they have a little surprise for you, they are pulling what is called a 5-liner or short form credit report without you knowing and they use this to help figure out how much they can get away with charging you and still get it financed. Afterwards what the dealerships generally do is fill out credit applications in your name and fax them to several different lenders to see who they can get the best rate from. Again, they are doing all of this without your knowledge. What is the big deal you may ask? Every time your credit report is pulled it lowers your credit score and will cause you to pay higher interest rates.

It should be illegal but so far it isn't. With all the changes in privacy laws and similar consumer credit laws it shouldn't be long before this practice is outlawed.

Tips On Buying A Used Car

2006-08-06T18:57-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Just like buying a new car, buying a used car is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. Before you even begin shopping for a used car you need to do some homework to keep from paying too much and to keep from buying a vehicle fraught with problems. Consider what you will be using the car for, how much it will be used, and what your budget is.

You will want to research different models, options, repair records, safety tests, and gas mileage. Research and be sure there aren't excessive recalls as well. Consumer reports will help you with some of these items. Use the internet; it is an unbeatable resource for all kinds of information. This is what I do, you can find all the information you need.

Thoroughly examine the car you intend to buy whether from a dealer or individual using an inspection checklist. You can find these online at used car websites. If the car passes your inspection I would still recommend taking it to your local mechanic. Many times they will look one over for free and if they do charge anything it will be nominal.

Test drive the car you like under different road conditions. Drive it on the highway and in stop and go traffic. Check the brakes, the steering, and the alignment. Ask for the car's maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.

When it comes to paying for the car most people don't realize that there are methods of financing their car that they may not even realize. You may have capital in your home that can be used at a much cheaper rate than an auto loan would be.

Use the equity that you have in your home by taking out a home equity loan. A loan like this can be used for anything that you desire. Home equity loans can be used for any purpose such as a new car, home improvements, credit card debt, and debt consolidation. One of the other great benefits is that the interest rates are tax deductible.

If you don't have equity that you can use in your home or are not a home owner then you need to check with your bank or credit union. In any case you want to have your financing arranged prior to going to the dealership or buying from an individual. Don't set yourself up to get taken by the dealership if purchasing from one.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. For quality car care go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

What Is The Raise And The Lowball In The Car Business?

2006-08-06T14:47-04:00

by Gregg Hall

There are so many tactics used in the car sales industry that they cannot all be covered in one article. What we want to look at here are a couple of methods used so that you will be aware when they try to pull them on you.

The first thing we want to cover is the raise. All sales systems use the raise in some form and if you have ever shopped for a car you have definitely seen it. There is one reason for and one reason only, to get more money from the customer even if the customer cannot afford it. The key to their success is to ask for way more than they think they will get. For example if they want another $350 in profit they may start asking at $1,000 and sometimes with a weak customer they may get it all!

You know how the game is played. The salesman tells you that he has to go talk to the manager, but he really doesn't. He goes and gets a coke or goes and plays a round of liar's poker real quick with the other salesmen then he comes back and says, "Folk, we are so close all I need is a little help. All I need is another $247.56 and we have a deal" then he reaches out his hand and shuts up.

This is the oldest trick in the book. They use odd numbered amounts of money to trick you into thinking the deal is so close they have to have that much to the penny to keep from losing money. Trust me, it doesn't matter if they have made $2,000 profit they are going to try to bump you up and get more profit.

The next step is a really common trick that is used in the car business to make sure that you come back if you don't make a deal. They want to be sure you don't buy from someone else, it is called the lowball and this is how it works.

You haven't been able to get them to your price so before you leave the salesman tells you If you come back tomorrow I will try to get it for you for $500 less or I will try to shop your trade some while you are gone and get you $500 more for your trade.

Don't go out and celebrate just yet. This is the lowball. You will go out to other dealerships and try to buy at the lowball price only to be told it is impossible. Then when you return to the original dealer they tell you they sold that car or we had someone that we could have sold your trade in to but they bought something else.

Take the bull by the horns when they offer you a lowball price. Take the salesman by the arm and go to the sales manager and tell them you will buy the car at that price today but if they can't sell it at that price you will NEVER come to their dealership again.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com

Things You Can Do That Will Mess Car Salesmen Up

2006-08-06T14:43-04:00

by Gregg Hall

If you are like me dealing with car salesmen can be an exasperating experience. They have so many little quirks and sneaky little ways to try to get information from you that it can try the patience of the best of us. I want to share a few things that you can do to drive them up the wall for a change.

I was in the car business for years and I can tell you there a certain customers and things that customers do that drive salesmen crazy. Imagine how good it will feel to turn the tables.

One of the customer types that drive salesmen crazy is the indecisive customer. If you act like you can make up your mind what you want, you don't know what you want right from the start that will twist them up right from the start. Salesmen are trained to get you to land on a particular vehicle that is why they come up and ask what you are looking for so they can lead you around. If you tell them you have no idea that you are just getting ideas or whatever they will back off. Even if you do find something you like you can carry the indecisiveness on through the negotiation process by going back and forth on whether you want to buy or not, you can't decide what would be a good price, you don't know what kind of payments you want. These things will drive a car salesman completely nuts!

Never, ever let them see you like a car and don't act like you like them either. I don't care if it is the car of your dreams and you have been looking for months to find one. Don't let them know that. This is another thing that salesmen can't stand, a total lack of emotion from the customer. This is another thing they are trained to do, it is called finding "hot buttons". They study you and watch your reactions and listen carefully to your responses to tell whether or not they have found the right vehicle for you or not. They will get scared when they can't find something that gets you excited because they know their job can be on the line.

Knowledge is one of the best ways to trip a salesman up. Most car salesmen don't know much about the cars they sell. I was consistently one of the top salespeople in the business and I wasn't a master of product knowledge so I know. If someone asked me how much a car weighed I would ask, "Are you gonna drive it or carry it? It's real heavy, you can't pick it up!" Seriously, if I got a prospect that was loaded down with product knowledge they would eat me up. It isn't that difficult to learn all the stuff you need to know about a particular vehicle. If you have your search narrowed down to one or two cars make sure you know all you can about them.

How To Inspect Your Car Before Final Delivery

2006-08-05T14:51-04:00

by Gregg Hall

When you buy a new vehicle you have every right to get one that is perfect and totally free of any imperfections. You don't want to pay top dollar for a brand new car that has mechanical problems or problems with the interior, body, or finish. Before you sign the final papers and take delivery of the car you want to be sure that you thoroughly inspect the car including road testing it. Take down notes of any imperfections and insist that they be taken care of before you sign anything. Some dealers will let you take the car overnight, if they will take advantage of it as it can give you the time to really check it out more than a 5 minute test drive and walk around at the dealership.

Another thing that is really helpful is to have someone else, other than the salesman, look it over with you. They may see something you don't. Don't let the dealer tell you "Don't worry. Go ahead and sign and we'll fix it later." Your signature is binding, there word isn't. Mechanical issues are usually just a matter of a minor adjustment, or they may have a factory flaw that is covered by the factory and will be repaired. Paint and upholstery on the other hand are items that most dealers are not very good at repairing and they will try to make you believe that a flaw is normal, it isn't.

Once you have driven the car off the lot with a signed contract anything and everything will be assumed to be your fault, so you have to be sure that it is perfect before you leave.
NEVER take final delivery of a car at night. There are many flaws that can be hidden when not in direct sunlight. It is well worth the time to take off from work and see the vehicle in the daylight so you aren't surprised by scratches or swirls in the paint you couldn't see.

These are some of the things you want to inspect:

Make sure that the serial number on the car matches what is on the paperwork. Check the odometer or mileage reading. If it has more than 300 miles make them tell you why. If they can't give you a reasonable answer, get another car. Sometimes they trade cars from other dealers and this could explain it, but make them show you the paperwork proving it.

Check the body and paint thoroughly. Look inside the hood, trunk, and gas filler compartment. This is an area that is overlooked for overspray. If there was a minor flaw they fixed they may try to pass it off without disclosing it. New cars that have been partially repainted will not match later on as aging will make the colors different.

Be sure everything is lined up properly. The doors, hood, trunk, and windows should all be perfectly lined up and there should be a good seal around the windows with no wind noise. Check the upholstery for any stains or tears and be sure all the mechanical and electronic devices are in proper working order.

Be sure to have the salesperson take the time to go over all the equipment with you and be sure you know how to operate it and also check all the lights to be sure they are working. Also be sure to check all the fluid levels and be sure they are topped off.
When you take the car for the test drive be sure to test the alignment by briefly releasing the steering wheel and note whether it pulls to the left or right. Also, test the brakes under light and heavy braking. There should be absolutely no shudder at all, if there is it needs to be corrected.

If you follow these suggestions it should prevent you from having a bad experience when picking up a new car.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Protect your new car's finish with quality car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com

Why The Year End Sale Might Not Be A Good Deal

2006-08-05T14:48-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Auto dealers love to hype up their year end clearance sales by trying to convey the idea that you are getting HUGE savings but you really have to look a lot deeper to see if the "great deal" is a deal at all.

Although it may be a fact that you are getting a brand new car at a reduced price, the real truth of the matter is that you are also buying a car that is a year old and according to the auction reports and the books that value vehicles your car has already depreciated several thousand dollars. "But it's new!" you say, it doesn't matter and that is why you want to look at some other issues to be sure that you really are getting a benefit by buying a year old car.

The best deals on last year's models will be found on car's with the manufacturer's carryover allowance which is an incentive given to the dealer so he will order more cars even though he still has a lot full of last year's cars. GM and Ford for example, usually have incentives as high as 5% of the sticker price of the vehicle while some imports can have incentives as high as $6,000 to $10,000 on certain luxury cars!

Let's look at an example of a domestic car like a Ford or Chevy. If the car has a window sticker of $20,000 then the auto dealer is going to have the 5% carryover which in this case would be $1,000, plus their usual dealer holdback of around 3% or $600 and any factory to dealer incentives which are usually pretty large these days. We'll use $1,400 for this example. So before we even get started negotiating we have $3000 that is not going to show up on the dealer's invoice. Now if we factor in that the cost of the vehicle is probably around $18,000 and we subtract our $3000 from that, we see the actual cost to the dealer may only be $15,000!

Some dealers may not want to sell the car at this figure, but keep this in mind for ammunition. Almost every dealer has his inventory "floor planned" or financed which means he is paying interest on every car on his lot for as long as it is there. Trust me he doesn't want to do that. I was in the business for 15 years and at the end of the year when the new models were coming out I wanted to be able to transition out of my old inventory as soon as possible without losing money. The longer they keep the vehicles the more likelihood there is of losing money.

Another big issue to consider is if there has been a model change. This can drastically affect the value of a vehicle. I can remember when the body style of the Dodge Ram pickup truck was changed in 1995; the 1994's were practically worthless. The new Ram was bringing sticker price at the auctions!

Shop around and find a dealer with a ton of current models on his lot as well as last year's he may be more willing to bargain. And remember that if there has been a big change you may want to pay the extra for the new model unless you can just flat out steal last year's model.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. For great car care products go to http://www.carcarewizards.com

Keep More Money in your Pocket And Gas up Less Often

2006-08-05T14:44-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Gas prices all over the world have been soaring for years, giving drivers no other option than to pay the high prices. With more people driving vehicles that require more gas on a weekly basis, the rise in prices in being felt financially. Although experts agree that the rise in gas prices are not significant enough to deter consumers from driving their big trucks and sports utility vehicles, the thrifty spender may see things differently. A popular option for those looking for a cheaper way to travel is the hybrid.

The "hybrid" is something of mixed origin or composition by definition. A hybrid vehicle is one that has both a gasoline engine and an electric engine in which it operates upon. The gasoline engine is often smaller than in regular vehicles, allowing the electric motor to compensate with energy. A high-voltage battery charges the electric motor when the car is parked. Today's hybrids can operate using either engine or both at the same time. This efficient system is great for the environment and even better for your pocket book.

With hybrids running on both a gasoline engine as well as an electric motor, they do not require as much gasoline as regular vehicles. Most hybrid vehicles average around 50 mpg, which is amazing when compared to conventional gasoline engine vehicles. The incredible gas mileage is one reason hybrids are being thrust to the front of the industry during the soaring gas prices. On another note, since hybrids burn less gasoline than most vehicles, they also emit fewer pollutants. Studies show they are 90% cleaner than a conventional automobile. The small and efficient engines also help reduce their total exhaust emissions, making them not only financially wise choices but also environmentally wise choices.

The fact that hybrids have two engines that work together to get the most efficient results in vehicle travel is the main reason why hybrids get great gas mileage. There are a few other minor reasons that also contribute however. Most hybrids are being sold with low-rolling resistance tires included. These tires are named as such because they have proven to roll easily on the road. The easily rolling measurement also means that they minimize the energy used by the tire. With the tires using less energy, they are allowing the car to be more efficient and in turn get better gas mileage. Studies have shown that hybrids with low-rolling resistant tires have saved drivers an average of 6% more on gasoline usage.

The average driver of a sports utility vehicle may complain of spending up to $50 a week on gasoline for their vehicle. These drivers are those they have only traveled in their own town during the week. An average hybrid driver estimates they spend less than $20 a week in gas for their hybrid. This is due to the fact that hybrids get better mpg than conventional gasoline powered cars. Different models of hybrids will in fact get different mpg rates.

Charts show that if you own a vehicle that gets 21 mpg, you will spend an average of $8,500 a year on gasoline. If you own a hybrid that gets 46 mpg, you will save over $4,600 a year, spending only $3,900 on gasoline. Buying a hybrid that gets 55 mpg or more, you will save between $500 and $1000 more a year compared to a 46mpg hybrid. These facts are enough to make conventional SUV owners want to run toward a hybrid.

If you are tired of paying way too much at the pump, then you should certainly consider an alternative form of transportation. You can choose to ride your bike, take a city bus, or carpool. The most luxurious option however is to purchase a hybrid. There are many different models of hybrids offered at this time. There are many more models coming out soon. Many hybrid models have distinct looks, while others, like the Toyota Camry Hybrid will have a typical "Camry" look. No matter what styles and models you like, there is something in a hybrid option for you. So, take a drive down to your local hybrid car lot and take one for a test drive today! You will love that you are driving a car that is great to the environment as well as easy on the pocketbook when it comes to gasoline.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Keep your car's finish looking brand new with car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com

Help Slash the U.S.'s Dependency on Overseas Oil

2006-08-05T14:42-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Anyone who follows political policy of the United States can tell you that America consumes a quarter of the world's oil supply but only has 3% of the world's oil reserves on its territory. This fact gives the country no other option than to import over 60% of the oil it needs to function at normal levels. With the introduction of the sports utility vehicle and other gasoline guzzlers, the dependency is growing each day.

The harshness of this reality is that most of the world's oil supply is controlled by countries and people who hate the United States and the entire Western ideology. They are mostly radical Islamists or allied with radical Islamists. This means that those that control one of the most important imports to the United States has great amounts of hatred toward the U.S. and its citizens. The dependency the United States has on oil is one that threatens its national security on a daily basis. The radicals know Americans need oil to function. Knowing this, they hold their possessions tightly and use it against the United States. When needed, they use the oil industry as a political agenda and a war tactic.

Some experts believe that with the introduction of hybrid vehicles, the U.S.'s dependency on overseas oil will lessen. The new hybrids are powered by a small gasoline engine as well as an electric engine. They use much less gasoline than the conventional vehicle, with translates to less oil needed. With over 11 millions barrels being imported into the United States each day, any reduction in the need for oil is a welcomed idea. In the 1970s, during the first oil crisis, the United States was using much less oil than they are today. Although much of the oil use is contributed to industry, vehicles do contribute. With the market reaction being extremely high toward the hybrid, it is likely more Americans will be buying hybrids. Most Americans will not be buying hybrids just to lower the country's dependency on oil. They will likely be buying hybrids to save on gasoline costs, gain incentives, or help the environment. Those who are interested in politics may be encouraging those they know to buy hybrids, however it is unlikely the oil dependency crisis will be a large selling factor.

Buying hybrids however does save the country bundles in oil use. In fact, if every car in the United States was a hybrid car, then the country would be saving 15 percent more oil than normal. This is a huge amount that can change a lot in the political and economical world. It is also a percentage that can change the direction of environmental care by consumers. The biggest factor in the equation is time.

With hybrids being sold faster than they can be made, it is unlikely the change can come quickly. Although there is great interest in hybrid models, consumers will not likely rush to trade their current vehicles in on a hybrid. It will take time for consumers to decide to purchase a new vehicle and it will take time for hybrids to be produced more quickly than in the past. Buying a hybrid will begin the process however and help the progressive hope for the hybrid start working.

During the past oil crisis many Americans have gone to riding their bicycles or purchasing small economical vehicles. This is always an option for everyone. If you are truly interested in living a normal scheduled life however and would love to cut down on the oil consumption of the United States, buying a hybrid is a great idea. Not only would you be helping the country control its dependency but you would also be getting a great vehicle.

Saving hundreds a month on gasoline costs, helping the environment, and benefiting from incentives is a great reason to buy a hybrid. So, go ahead and check out the newest hybrids today. You can feel great about your purchase and know that you are doing your part to help the United States. If you agree that hybrids have the potential to end the dependency of the United States on foreign oil, then you should certainly contribute and buy a hybrid today.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Take care of your car's finish by using the patented car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com

Give Yourself A Tax Break With Tax incentives for Hybrid Owners

2006-08-05T14:39-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Buying a hybrid is becoming quite an investment. The hybrid, which operates on both a gasoline engine and an electric engine, is offering much more than a decrease in gasoline cost. It also offers consumers the ability to directly help the environment. Hybrids are known to emit very few pollutants, especially when compared to conventional vehicles. It is stated that hybrids are up to 90% cleaner to the air than normal cars. This something the government is willing to reward hybrid drivers for.

Tax incentives for hybrid owners are one of the newest things offered. Hybrid owners are ecstatic about the new bill passed that gives them as much as $3,400 back. President Bush passed the bill as a new Energy Bill. The bill focuses on the environment but also on the fact that hybrids save on oil use. This directly affects the country's dependency on foreign oil. When a consumer purchases a hybrid, they are directly helping break the control many radical Islamists have over the United States through oil. These are the same individuals who hate the United States. Therefore, it is only logical the United States would want to reward hybrid owners for their smart purchases.

Many consumers find this new bill difficult to understand. The average consumer may joke that it takes an accounting degree to figure it all out. The formula used for the tax incentive involves the fuel efficiency numbers for 2002 vehicles. It works a little like this: If your car is between 25 and 50 percent more efficient than the average 2002 vehicle model, then the buyer will receive a $400 credit. The credit can grow as high as $2,400 if the new car is even more efficient.

The trick of the bill is that is also offers a combination of a conservation credit. This involves knowing a formula that tries to project how much fuel the car will save over its lifetime. The combination of the first half of the calculation and the second half of the calculation gives the tax benefit total. There are a few restrictions however that some consumers may not be aware of. One of the restrictions includes a credit cap for each automaker until 2010, which is set at 60,000 at this time. Other restrictions as described also restrict inclusion of certain hybrid models, especially those that are SUV hybrids or those purchased after 2005. All in all however, hybrid owners in general will profit from this tax benefit.

The bill may seem a bit confusing and limited at this time, but hybrid owners will likely benefit greatly from this tax incentive. Just leave it to your accountant to figure out the details and sit back to claim the reward. After all, not everyone understands every aspect of their personal taxes each year, but they still pay and collect on them. By giving hybrid owners this great incentive, the United States is not only rewarding current hybrid owners, but they are encouraging consumers that do not own hybrids to go out and purchase one.

The government is showing that hybrids not only help the consumer individually but they also help the country as a whole. If every car driven on the roads of the United States was a hybrid car, then the United States could potentially cut their oil needs down by 15%. This is an enormous number considering that the United States currently imports more than 11 million barrels of oil a day. Overall, the United States would be less dependent on oil for normal day-to-day activities and the cost of oil would be affected.

If you want to lower your personal gasoline costs then you should consider a hybrid. If you are interested in ways to help preserve the clean air of the environment, then you should consider a hybrid. If you are interested in the disadvantages of the dependency the United States has on foreign oil, then you should consider a hybrid. And most of all, if you are one that loves great government incentives, like the new Energy Bill that gives hybrid owners tax incentives, then you should certainly consider buying a hybrid.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Take car of your car's finish with the quality car care products from http://www.carcarewizards.com

How to Protect Your Sports Car

2006-07-30T14:54-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Your sports car represents a significant investment. For many owners, their sports car ranks second only to their home in terms of cost. When one has paid a substantial sum for an item, it only makes sense to take proactive steps to insure its protection.

There are many ways one can protect their sports car. A car can be protected against theft with expensive alarm systems and accessories such as locking lug nuts or a club-like steering wheel lock.

A sports car can be protected from environmental damage via the use of a car cover, parking in a garage, regular weather-related maintenance, and other activities.

There is a burgeoning industry surrounding sports car enthusiasts. There are literally hundreds of ways to protect every component of your automobile, and aspiring entrepreneurs will continue to find new must-have products to defend your investment.

However, the sports car hobbyist does have means of protecting their car that do not require any financial outlays. By utilizing common sense and care, you can take many measures to protect your sports car without spending a dime. Here are three examples:

Parking

You can avoid door dings and other similar body-related problems simply by parking wisely and carefully. Remind yourself of your investment and seek out parking spaces that give you a wide enough berth. Don't try to crowd into a space next to another car-doing so will almost guarantee a paint scratch or chip when the driver in the next slot opens his or her door.

Don't park under trees. Trees house birds and produce sap and falling pieces. All of these can damage your sports car's paint or finish. Simply refuse to park under a branch. You may have to seek out a spot a little farther from your destination, but you can make the walk while feeling better about yourself and your sports car's well being.

Driving

There is a tendency to think of sports car driving as a high-speed and reckless endeavor. This is not, of course, the case. Although aficionados may seek out opportunities to test their vehicles speed and acceleration, they do not do so recklessly and are, in fact, among the safest drivers on the road.

This commitment to safety and care needs to be carried into regular traffic situations as well. Any sports car owner should remember that the best way to protect their car while driving it is to remain accident-free. Even stalwart drivers can benefit from re-reading defensive driving guidelines and making a concerted effort to drive as safely as possible.

Maintaining

Many sports cars are damaged while actually being repaired. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the garage is a primary source of scratches, dings and chips for many sports cars. Those performing maintenance on their vehicle must handle tools carefully and pay close attention to how they are working on their car. For instance, tools should never be placed directly on the car.

Additionally, repair situations create the possibility of damaging the mechanical components for your sports car. Make sure that before you embark on any repair work that you understand exactly what is required and expected. Otherwise, you may unintentionally damage your sports car.

These may seem like common sense actions. Truth be told, they are. Common sense, however, is easily lost in many situations. Sports car ownership presents many options and considerations in terms of protecting your car, and the most simple and important means of protecting your car can get lost in the shuffle unless you are willing to make a strong commitment to parking, driving, and maintaining your vehicle with great care.

Gregg Hall is a business consultant and author for many online and offline businesses and lives in Navarre Florida with his 16 year old son. Get great car care products to protect your car at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Use Common Sense To Protect Your SUV

2006-07-24T23:36-04:00

by Gregg Hall

These days with the price of an SUV being over $50,000 in some cases, the investment in the vehicle is second only to buying a home. If you have paid so much for something it just makes good sense to protect it. Let's look at some easy ways that you can protect your SUV from damage and theft.

Almost all SUVs now come equipped with an anti-theft device and most also have ignition disabling built in as well to prevent a would be thief from being able to drive off. If you have expensive wheels you will want to use locking lug nuts to at least slow the thieves down when they try to steel your wheels. If you insist on having spinners then you should know upfront you are setting yourself up as a target.

To protect your SUV from damage to the elements of course you should always to try to keep it in a garage or under a carport but if you have a really large SUV, it may not fit in the garage. If this is the case then you should invest in a water repellant cover for your SUV to protect the finish from damage from the sun, trees, and flying dinosaurs, I mean birds.

When you have to go to a shopping center don't try to cram your land yacht SUV into a tight space just to save a couple of steps. Park further out where you have a couple of spots on either side of you, you could probably use the exercise anyway. Just doing this one thing will help you avoid door dings and it will make you healthier at the same time.

Never park your SUV under trees. Yeah, the shade is nice, but the sap is not. In addition to the sap, you have the opportunity for the wind to blow branches onto your vehicle and then you have birds. I don't think I need to spell that out for you, do I?

Just because you are the biggest thing on the road in your Hummer or Excursion doesn't mean you have to be a road hog and drive aggressively. Drive carefully and safely to avoid getting into accidents and watch out for others driving along side of you.

Be extra careful when you are pulling through a drive-thru. I have seen the drive-thru at my local bank take out a couple of mirrors as well as leave long gashes in the side of an SUV who was in a hurry and not paying attention. You also need to be careful pulling in and out of your own garage; this is where many people damage their own SUV. Also, when you are working on your SUV in the garage be careful opening the doors, if you are like me you are probably in close quarters.

These may all seem like no brainer ideas, and really they are but you would be surprised how many otherwise intelligent people don't follow the simple instructions I just gave.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cars and car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Choose A Quality Body Shop To Repair Your SUV

2006-07-24T23:29-04:00

by Gregg Hall

If you are like most SUV owners you take a lot of pride in your vehicle and go to great lengths to keep it looking good, but sometimes no matter how safe and careful you are accidents occur. It is especially crucial to choose a quality body shop as an SUV owner just because of the value of the vehicle. If the repairs are not done right it can cost you thousands when you are ready to trade. It is necessary to find a body shop that can bring your vehicle back as close as possible to the condition it was in before the accident.

There are a few factors that can help you to avoid the rip-offs who aren't much better than a drunk with a spray can, hey come to think of it some of them are drunks with a spray can. Anyway, here are some hints to help you find a good body shop.

Just as when looking for a good mechanic, the reputation of the body shop is an important factor to consider. Ask for references from your insurance company, they don't deal with inferior service providers because they have a vested interest in the vehicles being repaired properly as well. Another thing you can do is ask your mechanic, if he has been around the area awhile you can bet that he knows who the best body shops are and which ones to avoid. Don't buy into big ads in the yellow pages or on billboards, anyone can buy publicity. A good reference is priceless.

Next, you want to be able to view their work. If they are unwilling to show you before and after photos and even let you see jobs they are currently working on just walk away. Any reputable body shop will be more than happy to show you the quality of their work, the ones that won't have something to hide, maybe it's that stolen car they are chopping the paint booth!

Another thing that you definitely want to look for from a quality body shop is a guarantee. A good shop will always stand behind the repairs they have done and will usually give some kind of warranty on paint, parts, and labor. Ask them specifically what their policy is regarding guarantees and what they will do for you if you are not happy with the quality of the work that they have done on your SUV. If they get indignant with you leave and find another one, any decent body shop knows and understands a customer has concerns about there vehicle being repaired properly.

You invested a lot of money in your SUV; make sure you invest some time in finding the right body shop to repair it.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cars and car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

If You Have To Ask How Much Then Exotic Cars Aren't For You

2006-07-24T23:21-04:00

by Gregg Hall

What do you think of when you hare the term exotic sports car? Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, or maybe a McLaren. In the truest sense of the term it refers to limited production sports cars made outside of the United States, but built by some of the biggest names in the industry.

The McLaren F1 is one such car. Once the fastest car made at 0-60 in 3.1 seconds, it is also one of the most expensive selling for well over a million dollars. There were only 107 produced from 1994 -1998 and it is very rare that one ever finds its way to market.

The McLaren gave up its title as world's fastest car in 2005 losing it to the Koenigsegg CCR, a Swedish made car that has a top speed of 241 mph. The sweet taste of victory didn't last long for the Swedes however as the Germans quickly blew their record away with the introduction of the Bugatti Veyron built by Volkswagen AG, named for the race car driver Pierre Veyron who won the 24 hours of Lemans in 1939 while with the original Bugatti company. This car has a top speed of 250 mph and a blistering 0-60 in less than 2.5 seconds! It is also now the world's most expensive car at 1.3 million dollars.

The performance and the beauty of design of these exotics are both seductive and intoxicating and it is easy to see how one who has the money would own one. Even for those that might have to stretch a little to buy one the lure of having such a beauty is hard to resist.

Even if you are fortunate enough to be able to afford one of these beauties you also need to be prepared upfront for expensive ongoing maintenance and an outrageously high insurance premium, if you can find an insurer.

You also will need to have considerable patience for repairs because parts are not easily found and you will sometimes even have to have the parts created yourself. There are also very few mechanics in the world qualified to work on such cars and you definitely don't want some shade tree mechanic working on your million dollar car.

Don't let your ego overrule your senses. If you truly can afford a car such as these, congratulations and more power to you, but if it is a stretch at all you are better off to admire them from afar.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cars and car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Easily Find The Sports Car Of Your Dreams At An Affordable Price

2006-07-24T23:18-04:00

by Gregg Hall

With the prices of new sports cars sky rocketing out of site for many enthusiasts the need for more resources to find an affordable alternative is growing stronger every year. While new car dealers try to entice people with larger rebates or finance incentives the real bargains are in the pre-owned market where someone else has taken the depreciation or even better yet finding an old classic that you can restore!

If you are looking for a true project car for little money you can hardly go wrong with an old Fiat or Triumph. You can find these cars in running condition often for under two thousand dollars and parts are easily found for them as well. Sports car clubs abound for these little cars so you have plenty of resources and support. One warning though, when I say project car I mean it. These aren't everyday drivers, just fun cars for weekends!

There are lots of ways to find sports cars at a decent price including classifieds and free weekly papers as well as auto industry specific publications like Auto Trader. Sometimes you can find real bargains this way. You never know when you will stumble on a bargain due to a divorce or someone being transferred overseas.

Your local mechanic as always is a great source of information for bargains on a used car. People will often tell the mechanic to keep a look out if they know someone who is looking for a car for sale. Usually the mechanic will have done the work on the car as well and can vouch for its reliability. Another thing you may run into is cars that have a mechanic's lien, which means the owner couldn't pay the bill and now the shop owner is going to sell the car to get his money back. Like a foreclosure on a house these can sometimes be great deals.

One of my favorites since I am on the internet all day already is internet auto auctions, especially eBay Motors. They have the largest online auction in the world and sometimes it's fun just seeing what they have available. There are some really good bargains there in many cases especially if you are willing to drive a little or pay for shipping to get one in some out of the way area. Also check misspellings, many times people will set up and auction and misspell it or put the wrong model number in and no one else knows the car is being sold!

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cars and car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

Do Americans Corner The Market On Sports Cars?

2006-07-24T23:07-04:00

by Gregg Hall

When you stop to consider that some of the fastest and most expensive cars on the market come from overseas this seems like a stupid question. Americans probably still consider the Corvette to be the true American Sports car as a two seater built mainly of fiberglass and just about all motor.

Italians have the right to be boastful of their accomplishments with the beauty and performance of the Ferrari line, no none can question that they are a force in the sports car market, albeit and expensive one. If you were to ask a German who builds the best sports cars they have the cars to back an argument as well, from the Bugatti to the Porsche Turbo Carrerra GT the Germans have introduced a long line of true sports cars to the world market.

We can't forget the Japanese influence of late, from Nissan's Z car series going back to the original 240Z when they were called Datsun, to the 360Z of today they have remained dedicated to offering a pure sports car. Toyota was once a dominant force with the popularity of the Toyota Supra, especially the turbo model but they have become more focused in the sedan market. Mitsubishi has been continually introducing new sports cars and they seem to be more focused on the young auto buyer, the Lancer EVO featured in the Fast and The Furious movie makes their case well.

Sports cars have been a global phenomenon since before the start of mass production when cars were considered just for fun or sport. There were cross country rallies all over the globe where independent car makers would test their cars and their skills against each other.

After World War II the big cross country rallies were added to with one on one races like the street races in the United States that were glorified by movies like Rebel Without A Cause and later films like Grease. Usually these races would occur in the wee morning hours when the roads were fairly empty and racers would sometimes race for the pink slips or titles of their cars.

In Europe the races happened on the long and winding country roads that are all over the Old Country. And now the Japanese began entering the fray, due in large part to the concern over the price of gas in the United States, the Japanese brought quality and performance to new levels while showing that both could be done while offering decent fuel economy.

The love of sports cars is even growing in the Middle East where Maserati has found a dependable niche market among the rich young oil barons. The Maserati Quatroporte is especially in demand among the young drivers there.

In a world of differing opinions and political views the sports car seems to be a common unifier all across the planet.

Gregg Hall is an author and internet marketing consultant living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cars and car polish at http://www.carcarewizards.com

How To Protect Your Car From Rust?

2006-06-18T17:48-04:00

by Gregg Hall

Next to our homes, our vehicles are the next biggest investment we make. Some of the cars, trucks, and SUVs today cost more than some homes! Therefore, we want to protect them from the ravages of the environment such as rust. Certain problems are inevitable, but rust is one that can be prevented.

Some of the areas of vehicles that are most affected by rust are body panels including doors, fenders, the hood, and tailgate. The reason for this is that they inherently have areas that retain moisture. Depending upon the model of vehicle, there are many other areas that can retain moisture as well. Certain cars retain more moisture just due to the way they are designed, so you have to be especially careful and vigilant with them.

Some factors that you have no control over include the environment in which you live. If you live in a coastal area you are exposed to more salt air for example. If you live in an area where there is snow and ice on the road, the authorities usually use salt on the roads which can result in rust on your car’s undercarriage.

When you find yourself in these types of environments you must wash your car more frequently. I recommend washing your car down weekly if you are in an area with salty roads or if you are living so near the coast that you get a salty film on your car.

Here are some overall tips for rust prevention that will go a long way to helping you to prevent rust formation on your vehicle:

1. Keep your car clean and coated with a finish protectant at all times.

2. Keep the underneath of your car rinsed continually when you are in an area where a lot of salt is present as mentioned above.

3. Keep your tires and wheels clean and polished and free from moisture holding material like leaves.

4. Make sure any drainage holes in the frame, floor, and the bottoms of the doors so that any moisture can get out.

5. Always open your doors after washing your car to allow any accumulated water to drain out.

Remember this, rust proofing only helps with new vehicles. If you try to do it on a pre-owned vehicle you may trap dirt and moisture and increase the risk of rust.

Gregg Hall has over 20 years experience in the automotive industry including managing and owning several dealerships. He recommends these car care products

Some Good Sources To Find Used Vehicles

2006-06-09T21:22-04:00

by Gregg Hall

If you try and you are lucky you will find a good quality vehicle without having to go through the trauma of going to a dealer to do it. Of course the car dealers will tell you exactly the opposite and warn you against buying from a friend or neighbor. I was in the business for over 15 years and I can tell you that you can get a good deal from an individual.

One of the best sources to find a good used car is from people you know. If you have friends and neighbors who trade vehicles often you may find a source there. Many people trade very two to three years. If you know the people well and know that they take good care of their vehicles wouldn’t you be better off to buy straight from them? It can be an easy process if you follow a couple of guidelines. Offer to go with them to a few dealerships to shop their vehicle. Offer them a profit above the best offer they get. What could be simpler than that? It is a win-win situation for everyone. Your friend gets better than wholesale and you get a good deal on a car that you know won’t be a disaster plus you won’t have anywhere near the paperwork you would from buying at a dealer!

Another good source is from bulletins boards at work. Many employers have bulletin boards that you can post on for buying and selling vehicles. You have a good chance of finding a good deal here so keep your eyes open. One thing to watch out for is that many times these people will owe more on their car than it is worth.

The next good source is from newspaper ads and papers like the “Shopper”, “Thrifty Nickel”, and “Auto Trader”. Even though it will take longer to call every ad and go out and personally inspect the vehicles you are interested in you stand a good chance of being able to find a good deal on a great vehicle. Just be aware that not all of the ads you see will be from individuals. Car dealers advertise in those as well. Some newspapers require dealers to identify themselves but many do not.

Large used car specialty dealers such as Auto Nation and Car Max are another place you can find a good used car but you are going to pay for the convenience. Bear these things in mind when buying from one of these places:

The majority of their cars are going to be rental cars and lease returns. What this means is that it will be virtually impossible to talk with the previous owners and that means you definitely want to have the car inspected by a mechanic.

Even though you may not experience a great deal of sales pressure at these large stores they will give you some subtle pressure to finance with them and buy add-ons that you don’t need, resist them.

Many of these dealers will offer money back guarantees for a limited amount of time. These warranties are not offered on all cars and you need to be careful of what is actually included in the money back guarantee.

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