Buyer's Checklist for Inspecting Used Cars

Buyer's Checklist for Inspecting Used Cars

By Anders Abadie

The inspection is one of the most important aspects of the car buying experience. The initial inspection gives the potential buyer the opportunity to check both the interior and exterior for problems such as rust, a faulty sound system, or mechanical issues. Although a buyer's personal inspection isn't a substitute for a thorough inspection by a professional mechanic, it is an essential step when purchasing used cars. Before investing in a used vehicle, follow this checklist for inspecting used cars.

Examining the Exterior

Before you actually get into the vehicle for a test drive, it's best first to examine the exterior for any defects. While minor cosmetic flaws such as small scratches or dents often remain unnoticeable, other blemishes like rust can spread when exposed to air and moisture long-term. When examining the exterior, check for the following problems:

- Cracks in the windshield or windows
- Mismatched body panel colors
- Improper alignment where the trunk and hood close
- Improper alignment where the fenders and doors meet
- Faulty windshield wipers
- Faulty headlights and signal lights

Inspecting the Interior

The interior of the vehicle is equally as important as the exterior, as you'll want to be able to drive comfortably. When inspecting the interior, check for cosmetic flaws like torn or aged upholstery, faulty instruments and controls, and odd odors that could indicate the presence of mold or mildew. The following defects should also be looked for:

- Problems with opening and closing doors
- Problems with opening and closing the trunk
- Non-working gauges/stereo/heater/air conditioner
- Lit warning lights on the dashboard
- Faulty seatbelts
- Faulty power windows/sunroof
- Non-working alarm (if applicable)

Checking the Brakes and Steering

Brakes are a critical safety feature in all vehicles and should be in good working condition. Common signs that indicate the need for new brakes include squeaks, squeals, grinding, and other noises. You'll also want to ensure that the steering wheel steers to either side easily. Here are some common problems to look for:

- Pulling of the vehicle to one side when applying the brakes
- Issues when trying to engage or disengage the parking brake
- Shaking or vibrating
- Resistance in the steering wheel while attempting to turn
- Clunking or clicking sound while turning

Taking the Car for a Test Drive

Driving a used vehicle is essential to ensure that the car is running smoothly and is mechanically sound. During the test drive, be sure to follow all precautions that you normally would such as adjusting the seat and mirrors and fastening your seatbelt. You'll also want to check for the following problems:

- Difficultly starting the vehicle
- Trouble shifting gears (if manual transmission)
- Poor acceleration
- Difficultly maneuvering during lane changes

Unless you have prior experience, you may not know what to look for when checking the frame, transmission, and other more complicated components of the car. It's best to have the car inspected by a professional mechanic before purchasing to ensure that the vehicle is in good working condition. Be sure to perform an inspection always before purchasing used cars for your own safety and the safety of your passengers.

When considering used cars, NJ residents visit Honda of Toms River. Learn more at http://www.hondaoftomsriver.com/used-cars-toms-river-nj.

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Donating Used Cars Is Not As Straightforward As It Used To Be

Donating Used Cars Is Not As Straightforward As It Used To Be

By Anders Abadie

Many people have a thorough understanding of how to sell or trade used cars, even if they have never done so themselves. However, the process of donating a vehicle to charity is mostly unknown to most of us. There are many common misunderstandings about the process, which will be cleared up below.

The Truth About Tax Breaks

All over television, billboards, and even on the Internet, there are ads stating that if you donate your used cars to charity, you will receive a tax break. Even though this is technically true, these tax breaks are much smaller than they were in years past. Unfortunately, this is because some people took advantage of the system.

Up until recently, the process was quite easy and straightforward. Taxpayers simply claimed the fair market value of the vehicle on their tax forms. This was easily determined by auto valuation services such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. As a result, many people just donated their used cars to the closest non-profit and simply claimed the applicable tax break.

Then some taxpayers began to claim that their auto donation was worth more than the actual value, so the government was forced to enact strict rules regarding the amounts you could claim subsequent to vehicle donation. Everything now depends on how the charity intends to use the vehicle, which puts taxpayers in an awkward situation. They do not know the exact size of their pending tax deduction at the time that their used cars are donated.

The IRS has a $500 deduction threshold for vehicular gifts. If the auto is valued higher than that, it is valued at the price that the charity eventually sells it for. If the charity decides to use it prior to selling it, you may be entitled to a deduction equal to the full value of the auto if the charity provides you with documentation regarding the sales price and how it was used prior to the sale.

Finding An Appropriate Charity

It is crucial to research your chosen charity before you drop off any used cars. Though there are many philanthropic groups that will gladly accept your donation, only those that are tax-qualified will result in income tax breaks. There are many groups that perform valuable work in the community, but they are not approved charitable organizations in accordance with IRS rules. There are also many con artists around that will take advantage of your good intentions, so always verify that your chosen non-profit is legitimate and reputable.

So, is donating your old automobile the right option for you? Donating a vehicle is a noble undertaking. Though you expect a tax break in the end, you are still doing your part to help your community. Not only will it save you a few bucks at the end of the year, but it will also provide you with a sense of pride, knowing that you did something to help your neighbors and friends in your area.

To learn more about their options for Springfield, IL used cars, residents should visit http://www.freedomautosonline.com/.

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Tips for Negotiating With Car Dealers

Tips for Negotiating With Car Dealers

By Anders Abadie

Negotiating with car dealers can be a daunting and intimidating task; however, if you want to get the best deal possible on your new ride you should know some negotiation basics. This article features six helpful tips for getting a good price.

Know your limit

You should already know your highest offer before you visit any car dealers, and once negotiations reach your limit, don't budge. If the dealer can meet your price, they'll sell to you. Don't be offended if your offer is turned down. It's nothing personal, salesmen also set limits during a negotiation and their goal is to turn a profit. If you're unsuccessful at one dealership, simply move on to another.

Negotiate selling price, not monthly payments

While you'll probably end up financing your vehicle, make sure you negotiate in terms of its overall price. You need to know exactly how much expense you're committing to, despite how much nicer those monthly costs sound. When your salesman asks you about your budget for monthly payments, just indicate that you prefer to negotiate the selling price. Focusing on total costs will actually help land lower payments.

Focus on dealer cost and negotiate up

The dealer's cost, also known as the invoice price on new cars and the wholesale price on used cars, is the amount referring to the car's worth. You can get a good dealer cost estimate for your vehicle if you do a little research. The dealership has to make a profit, so expect the listed price to be higher than your estimate. Your first offer should be your lowest and you should work negotiations up from there. Working numbers up instead of down allows you to hit the dealer's lowest possible price.

Wait for a counter offer

Before raising your bid always wait until salesman gives a counter offer. If your salesman says, "I can't do that" to your first offer don't jump straight into your next offer. You should wait until you hear the dealer throw out his own first offer, and then begin raising your bid.

Raise in $100-$200 increments

Start your bid low and try and keep it that way. Make the salesperson lower their price to meet yours. At the end if the day, dealerships want to get rid of cars and needs to make a profit, so if you place your bid just above dealer cost and raise it small $100-$200 increments, you'll more than likely get your car at the right price.

Keep calm

It's very important that you stay calm and assert confidence when negotiating. Yes, there is a lot of money being discussed and the situation can be stressful, but salesmen notice when you're anxious and can take control of the negotiation. Keep in mind, you're the one with the cash. You're the customer and you can take your business anywhere.

Before you begin negotiating, you're going to need to find a dealership and shop brands and styles to select your ride. Take your time with both of these decisions. Visit multiple car dealers before choosing one, and research options and prices ahead of time. You should never negotiate blindly. Remember, prepare yourself and stay within your budget.

When considering car dealers, New Jersey residents visit Honda of Toms River. Learn more at http://www.hondaoftomsriver.com/about-honda-of-toms-river-in-toms-river-nj.

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Guidelines for Safe Use of Vehicle Recovery Snatch Straps

Guidelines for Safe Use of Vehicle Recovery Snatch Straps

By Alex Stojanovski

GENERAL INFORMATION

Recovery straps are made from 100% nylon webbing that can stretch under load and recoil back to almost its original length. The combination of the recovery vehicle pull and the tension in the strap creates a 'snatching' effect that can pull a stranded vehicle free from being bogged or unable to move under its own power. Always adhere to safe operating procedures and guidelines. When used in accordance with these guidelines, vehicles may be recovered with minimal risk of injury to people or damage to vehicles and equipment.

KEY INFORMATION AND SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Check the strap and its packaging for the stated Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS).

2. It is recommended that the minimum breaking strength of the strap should be between 2 and 3 times the vehicle's gross vehicle mass (GVM) (the weight of the vehicle and any people, accessories and supplies); and

3. The strap must be suited to the GVM of the lighter of the two vehicles used in the recovery process.

4. Persons intending to use the strap should consider completing a nationally recognised four wheel drive training course or contact a four wheel drive club for comprehensive advice on the proper selection and use of the strap.

5. The strap must not be used for lifting or conventional towing.

6. Persons intending to use the strap must ensure that the strap is not damaged and is in usable condition.

7. The strap's strength and stretch are reduced when the strap is saturated.

8. Something like a recovery damper, heavy bag or blanket must be draped over the strap during use to reduce any unintentional rebound of the strap.

9. While the strap is being used, persons situated outside the motor vehicles involved in the recovery process must -

(A) be kept at a safe distance (recommended as at least 1.5 times the length of the unstretched strap) from either of the vehicles involved in the recovery process; and 

(B) never situate themselves within the path of the vehicle performing the recovery.

'WARNING - Always follow product instructions. It is important to correctly attach the motor vehicle recovery strap to a motor vehicle. A standard tow ball or vehicle tie-down point is not designed for this purpose and may result in the strap or a vehicle component detaching from a motor vehicle and striking and seriously injuring or killing a person. Only attach the strap to a vehicle recovery point or device that is suitably rated for use with the strap. Incorrect use has previously resulted in serious injury and death.'

IMPORTANT NOTE

1. Never attempt to recover a vehicle without all the necessary equipment. 

2. Only use equipment that is properly rated for the particular situation. If in doubt, don't use it. 

3. Never exceed the Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) of the strap or the Working Load Limit (WLL) of shackles. 

4. Check your vehicle manufacturer's hand book for recovery point locations.

SELECTING THE RIGHT RECOVERY STRAP

It is very important the correctly rated strap is used. A strap with a 'too light' breaking strength may break under load. A strap with 'too heavy' a breaking strength may not stretch properly and more stress will be placed on the recovery points, possibly causing damage or injury. The Minimum Breaking Strength (MBS) of the strap should be between 2 and 3 times the Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of the lighter of the two vehicles used in the recovery process. Be aware that the recovery strap will be under greater load if the vehicle is bogged in mud, sand or heavily loaded. If the GVM is not stated on the identification plate of a vehicle or its registration certificate it could be available from the owner's handbook or from the vehicle manufacturer.

KEEPING PEOPLE SAFE

Only the persons involved in the recovery should be in either of the vehicles. Ensure bystanders stay a safe distance away of at least 1.5 times the length of the unstretched strap in the opposite direction. NEVER stand between vehicles connected by a recovery strap.

PREPARING FOR THE RECOVERY

Carefully assess the circumstances of the stranded vehicle. If it has bottomed out, clear under the vehicle body so it rests on its wheels. The recovery vehicle should be placed in line (no more than 10° off the straight line) with the stranded vehicle, for either a forward or reverse recovery operation. Distance between vehicles should be 2-3 metres less than the unstretched length of the recovery strap. Establish agreed signals between the vehicle drivers, by radio (preferably), hand signals or vehicle horn.

CONNECTING THE RECOVERY STRAP

Carefully inspect the recovery strap to determine that it is in good condition. If the strap is wet, dirty, cut or chaffed, it will not perform properly. A wet strap may be 20% under strength, a damaged strap may break. Do not allow the strap to come into with contact hot surfaces or sharp edges. Roll the strap out between the vehicles, making sure there are no twists or knots. Leave about 2-3 metres slack between the vehicles. The joining of straps should be avoided wherever possible (Retailers carry varying lengths of straps). NEVER USE A METAL OBJECT to join two straps together - if the strap breaks it can become a lethal missile and cause damage or injury.

Check your vehicle manufacturer's hand book for recovery point locations, or use correctly rated and fitted aftermarket recovery points. DO NOT CONNECT TO A TOW BALL OR TIE DOWN POINT. Connect recovery strap to recovery point; for any recovery point requiring the use of a shackle to attach the strap, use only load rated shackles. Only connect to correctly rated recovery points on the vehicles, with only 'Load Rated' shackles. Load ratings are marked on shackles as WLL (Working Load Limit). Bow Shackles are suitable for this purpose and should be rated at least 3.25t. To correctly tighten shackle pins, screw the pin until it seats then back off about ½ to 1 turn. Over tightening may lead to seized pins, due to the force exerted during recovery operations. To reduce the risk of a vehicle being damaged and person injured, hang a suitable recovery damper blanket over the recovery strap approximately midway to absorb the recoil action of a strap should it break.

REMINDER: Check all connections again and clear bystanders to a safe distance (at least 1.5 times the length of the unstretched strap) to the side of the recovery operation and NEVER in the line of recovery.

PERFORMING THE RECOVERY

1. Before the recovery operation drivers must agree on the point to which the stranded vehicle is to be recovered and the signal (radio, hand signal or horn blast) when that point is reached.

2. With communications maintained between both vehicles, and recovery strap secure, the recovery vehicle should gently accelerate, taking up the slack and proceeding at no faster than 10-12kph. For best results the stranded vehicle should be in 1st gear (or 2nd Low), and the driver should assist the recovery by trying to drive out approximately 3 seconds from when the recovery vehicle moves off.

3. If the vehicle is not recovered on the first attempt, check under the stranded vehicle, again, for obstacles, reset the slack in the recovery strap and try a little more speed by the recovery vehicle.

4. NOTE: Excessive speed or continual jerking action whilst using a recovery strap may result in damage to the recovery point, chassis and drive line of both vehicles.

5. When the stranded vehicle reaches the agreed point the driver should advise and the recovery vehicle should stop, then the stranded vehicle should stop.

6. Where proper use of a Recovery strap is unsuccessful, use an appropriate sized recovery winch.

7. Do not attempt to remove the strap until both vehicles are stationary and secured.

NOTE: Recovery straps require rest periods between use to return to their original length and capacity. Excessive pulls over a short period of time can cause build-up of heat and possible failure.

CAUTION: Always follow the recovery strap Guidelines for safe use.

GENERAL CARE AND MAINTENANCE

1. Never allow your strap to rub against sharp or hot surfaces. 

2. Avoid twists & kinks in the webbing. 

3. Always coil your strap during storage. 

4. Clean your strap in warm water with a mild detergent and allow to thoroughly dry before storage. 

5. Foreign material such as sand and grit can permanently damage the strap fibres. 

6. Be aware that a strap can lose up to 20% of its strength when wet. 

7. Inspect the entire length of any straps for nicks and cuts before and after use. If damaged, straps should be replaced. 

8. Never use the strap as a lifting device. 

9. Inspect shackles for damage. Pins that are hard to turn suggest that the shackle has been overstressed and should be replaced.

Visit our store to view our range of recovery straps at https://www.hulk4x4.com

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1991 vehicle with recalls

My vehicle is under recall

If I own a ‘91 vehicle with recalls can I bring it to a shop/dealership for repairs... and are they for free? 



First you have to understand that recalls come in different flavors; voluntary and safety. A recall will commonly have a time and/or mileage limitation. If the recall is a safety recall the age or ownership of the vehicle is not a factor. To have the repairs performed at no cost requires that the work be done at the dealer. In the event you have had safety related repairs performed prior to the announcement of the safety recall, manufacturers have historically reimbursed the vehicle owner for those repairs if they present their receipt of the repairs.

Consumers can get up-to-the-minute information on safety recall campaigns, or information on the recall history of a particular make and model of the car or truck, by calling the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Agency's toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236), or by accessing NHTSA on the Internet at www.nhtsa.dot.gov.


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