Fix It Guide
Fix-It Guide Categories:
Select Category:
Saturday, 26 September 2015
Troubleshoot All Types Of Technical Problems?
Solutions For Everything.
Select The Respective Categories
Wednesday, 16 September 2015
Buyer's Checklist for Inspecting Used Cars
Buyer's Checklist for Inspecting Used Cars
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anders_Abadie
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9156994
Donating Used Cars Is Not As Straightforward As It Used To Be
Donating Used Cars Is Not As Straightforward As It Used To Be
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/.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anders_Abadie
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9157012
Five Reasons To Buy Used Cars Now
Five Reasons To Buy Used Cars Now
For obvious reasons, pre-owned autos have always been less expensive than brand new ones. As such, they were far more popular with cash-strapped consumers during the Great Recession. However, as demand rose faster than supply during those years, the price of used cars reached an all-time high. Between 2007 and 2013, the cost of the average, secondhand ride surged by 18 percent. That trend continued in 2014, with an increase of 5.1 percent. But now, after seven consecutive years of growth, many experts believe prices will soon fall back down. Here's why.
Improving Economy
When people have money in their pockets, they are far more likely to purchase big-ticket items like cars and homes. With unemployment falling and wages rising (albeit marginally), consumers should invest in new autos at a disproportionate rate. The subsequent decline in demand for used vehicles should lead to lower prices.
Rising Inventory
One of the ways Americans saved during the economic downturn was to lease vehicles rather than buy them. According to industry insiders, a whopping 3.2 million new autos were leased from 2009. Many of these now-secondhand cars and trucks are coming back to dealerships. As a result, sellers should have huge inventories of late model vehicles. Now, even if demand were rising, the increased supply would most likely stabilize prices. However, with the expectation of a fall in demand, perhaps precipitously, costs could come crashing back to earth.
Better Quality
When you lease a vehicle, you must return it to the dealership in excellent condition. That is why most leased cars are in better shaped than those that are owned. With millions of these gently used automobiles returning to sellers in the coming years, the overall quality of the pre-owned fleet will improve.
Younger Fleet
There was a time, not so long ago, when most used car lots offered the dregs of the automotive industry. We're talking about clunkers so past their prime they probably belonged in junkyard. Times have changed! Because of leasing and better longevity, most sellers offer an appealing mix of nearly new and gently used cars. We should also mention that many dealerships now offer certified, pre-owned automobiles. These vehicles are thoroughly tested and inspected before they're put up for sale. They even come complete with extended warranties from their manufacturers.
Accurate Pricing
Before the advent of the Internet, it was almost impossible to price pre-owned autos; even the dealers weren't sure what they should charge. Today, there are dozens of websites that collect sales information from countless sellers across the country. This data is then used to calculate the average sales price for every make and model vehicle on the road. The prospective buyer just has to search for secondhand autos by zip code to find out what they're going for in his backyard. As you might expect, having access to this vital information makes it easier than ever to negotiate over price.
For all of these reasons and more, now is a great time to buy used cars in America.
To learn more about their options for used cars, Mobile, AL residents should visit http://www.deanmccraryaudi.com/used-inventory/index.htm.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anders_Abadie
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9157015
Tips for Negotiating With Car Dealers
Tips for Negotiating With Car Dealers
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anders_Abadie
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9157030
How to Bargain With an Auto Dealer
How to Bargain With an Auto Dealer
You've made the decision to buy a new or used car, awesome! What's next? You'll need to find a car that fits your needs and budget. Often times at dealerships, looks can be deceiving. The sticker says one amount, but auto dealers may have a different price in mind. Just because the window has a figure on it, doesn't mean that's what you should pay. Here's some things to keep in mind when you're heading out to car shop.
Do your research. It's the most important step when making such a large investment. You'll want to research the safety and fuel efficiency ratings. Has the vehicle won any awards or had a recall? Will this car require a lot of maintenance? What is included in the manufacturer's warranty? Already have a make and model in mind? Find out what was the best year for that make and, if you're buying used, make a list of things to check on the vehicle.
After you do your own research, if you still aren't comfortable with so much information, bring a knowledgeable friend or family member. Bringing a friend can provide necessary support and expertise. Knowledge is power and, in this case, a coupon on a big ticket item.
Go in with a budget. Always know just how much you're willing to part with and stick to your guns. You're the customer, so they should have to work for your money, not the other way around. If the auto dealer can't reach your budget, then take a step back and give yourself some time to think it over. A car is a commitment and you need to be certain you're ready and getting the best possible deal while getting the car that's the best fit.
For used cars, check a price comparison site to see what is the fair market price. Keep that information with you. The auto dealer will work with you because you're both aiming at a common goal: both of you want to see you drive away in a new automobile.
Another thing to keep in mind is what features come with the car. Features can cause a significant difference in price, but what features are important to you? If you want to, it may be helpful to carry along your personal notes. It's always better to have the information on hand than to forget and lose money that could be saved.
Know the best days to buy a car. Sometimes it's hard to wait, especially when our jobs may take us far from home, but do some searching to decipher the best sales. You might be able to get more for your clunker by trading it in at a different time of year. Buying a car when it's fresh off the line is tempting, but waiting can be worth the savings!
Overall, the best advice is to stay informed, do as much digging as you can on the car you want, visit more than one auto dealer, and have your set price in mind. Know your goals, know your car, and know that when you drive away, it was the best deal for the car you wanted.
When considering auto dealers, Connecticut residents visit Artioloi Dodge. Learn more at http://www.artiolidodge.com/new-inventory/index.htm?make=Chrysler.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anders_Abadie
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9157021
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)