Used Cars With New Car Reliability

Second hand car never had quite the ring to it that people wanted to boast about. This label portrayed a rather battered, rusty old car that would limp along and break down regularly. It was only the don't thing to be able to be seen in a new car. However, this was hardly a fair opinion to hold unless you had actually had experience of a second hand car. After all, drive down the road and would you know if that passing vehicle had had one careful owner or twenty? You simply wouldn't.

Car manufacturers have always encouraged people to upgrade their vehicles in their bid to continually sell new cars. However, attitudes are now changing, mainly thanks to the effort that manufacturers are putting in to giving a better image to used vehicles.

The credit crises is biting and while people have now got to the point where they wouldn't be without a car, not everyone wants to spend a huge proportion of their hard earned wages on transport to get them to the place that will earn them those exact same wage. To that end, the second hand car market has taken an upturn.

Manufacturers want to sell new cars and to this end, they have needed to make provision for all the used vehicles this leaves available. Many manufacturers now implement special programmes that recycle used cars that have come to the end of their lives and this is not only good for the environment but shows them to be responsible manufacturers. These same responsible companies will also provide a list of used vehicles that meet a certain standard and are fit for many more years use.

One such manufacturer is BMW. Buying a used BMW from an approved dealer means that you will not only get a reliable car at a reduced rate but you can also ensure your used BMW has undergone the most rigorous of checks to ensure it meets a certain standard. It will come with a guarantee of mechanical parts and also some of the best safety features in the business. A used BMW is always best from an approved dealer as you cannot always be sure of these checks when buying them from your average high street forecourt. The little extra you will pay will always be worth the peace of mind that comes with it.

Ford also do their own line in used vehicles. Buying a used vehicle from a Ford dealer will mean you can drive for at least two years with priceless peace of mind that a warranty and RAC inspection bring. A whole new competitive market has built up around used cars and Ford won the used car of the year award in 2007.

This is a highly competitive market these days and is excellent news for the consumer. It means that we get to drive high quality vehicles at much reduced prices with virtually all the conveniences that a new car brings, avoiding the hiccups that often accompany new cars.

Mercedes-Benz are another car manufacturer who pride themselves on the grade of their used cars. The employ skilled technicians to go through some extremely rigorous checks to ensure that every Mercedes that is put onto the open market is one that is as near to a new car in quality as they can get it. They also offer a service that means if you are not happy with the used Mercedes of your choice, you have thirty days to take it back and exchange it. This is an excellent facility given that it can often take several weeks of using your new car to discover all its little foibles and decide if its the car for you or not.

So it would seem that whether you are looking for a used BMW, used Mercedes or used Ford, you will have a wide choice of reliable cars open to you and the recommendation is to use an approved dealership for any used car you are looking for to ensure reliability and safety.

Credit to: Catherine Harve

Honey, I shrunk the car

These are the latest spy shots of Fiat’s new micro-car, dubbed the Topolino after the company’s original 1930s small car.

The diminutive Italian, which will sit below the Fiat 500, is one of a rush of new micro models being planned by carmakers looking to beat the European Union's tough new emission laws, which will take effect in 2015.

The Topolino, tipped to built in collaboration with Indian firm Tata, is also said to use a two cylinder engine, with a capacity of 900cc. Diesel and full electric power will be options, although electric power won’t be available at launch, which is slated for the middle of 2010.

Industry speculation also has Fiat collaborating with BMW on the micro car platform that would underpin both the Topolino, and a proposed BMW small car that has been dubbed the Isetta, after the original bubble cars of the same name made by BMW under license in the 1950s.

While it’s true that BMW and Fiat have signed a memorandum of understanding that will see them collaborate on new cars for Alfa-Romeo and Mini, insiders say that the deal doesn’t extend further downwards into the Isetta size range.

According to reports, the Isetta will use a twin-clutch semi-automatic gearbox that, combined with light weight and efficient aerodynamics, will lead to 42 km per litre fuel efficiency (that’s 100 mpg in the old money) and carbon dioxide outputs of less than 100 grams per kilometre.

But Toyota will beat both makers to the punch with its new iQ model, which is slated to go into production towards the end of 2008. The iQ measures 2985mm and has a 2000mm wheelbase, yet Toyota claims it will seat four due to space saving innovations in packaging. These include a flat fuel tank under the floor with angled rear shock absorbers, a newly developed differential that allows short frontal overhangs and a small heater and air conditioning unit. There are also sliding passenger seats, and an asymmetric dashboard that provides more room for the front passenger by allowing the seat to be moved forward.

Toyota hasn’t said what engines will power the iQ, however the company has said that there will be the choice of petrol and diesel power units that, combined with the car’s low weight and aerodynamic efficiency, should lead to emissions in the region of 100g/km of CO2.

Toyota estimates it will produce 100,000 units of the iQ in the first full year of production.

Hybrids great on gasoline savings but not expense, study finds

Hybrids may be tops when it comes to saving gasoline, but they're far for the best choice for budget-conscious car buyers, a new study says.

The four-door hatchback Chevy Aveo for General Motors Corp. leads the ranking of the highest quality new-car price points in terms of "total ownership cost" as intended by automotive information steady Edmunds.com, based on $5-a-gallon gas. The highest-ranked hybrid was the Honda Civic at No. 10. The Toyota Prius hybrid -- No. 1 in the government's power sector rankings -- came in 26th.
Hybrids, which are powered by both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, typically get better gas mileage as opposed to their non-hybrid counterparts but carry higher worth tags.

A 2008 Aveo hatchback amidst manual transmission lists for $10,235 and is rated by the Environmental Protection Agency at 27 miles per gallon in combined city-highway driving. The Prius, by contrast, has a combined fuel economy of 46 mpg and a implied retail price of $21,500 -- and typically transactions for thousands of dollars above that when of above average demand.

The study's purpose "isn't to discourage shoppers from obtaining hybrids," alleged Jesse Toprak, head of industry analysis for Santa Monica-based Edmunds.com. However, "consumers ought to ponder regular-engine small cars if such a goal is just to save money."

The Edmunds.com findings are at odds amongst a recent analysis by Consumer Reports, which ranked both the Prius and the Civic hybrids amongst the 10 cars that the bidder "the best gas economy for the buck."

Consumer Reports easily included vehicles that get its "recommended" rating, which is centered on reliability, safety, handling and other components in addition to dealings price and power economy. That's part of the reason the Aveo and the Toyota Yaris did not make Consumer Reports' fuel-economy cut.

"We did not want to send households to cars who are anticipated to let them down in other areas," said Rik Paul, the magazine's auto editor.

One car-shopping strategy that is basically absolute not to get sense financially is to trade in a late-model sport utility vehicle or pickup truck for a smaller, a greater number of fuel-efficient vehicle. Because of plummeting demand, trade-in values on these types of gas guzzlers have been falling fast -- some dealers won't accept them at all -- and that can wipe out the gas savings achieved by switching to a tinier car, auto research steady Kelley Blue Book Co. said in a prediction last month.

Toprak noted that many lendees buy hybrids because of the cars' environmentally friendly image or additionally reasons unrelated to economics.

"At least 50% of all automotive purchases are not founded on mortgage considerations," he said. "Its a particularly emotional purchase that doesn't constantly involve numbers."

Top 10 Pickups With the Worst Residual Value for 2008

It's worth taking the tiny bit to find out a thing or two about residual value before deciding on your next pickup. Choose a truck with a high residual value, and you'll benefit from decreased monthly bills if you opt to lease. Opt to buy one of such pickups, and you will enjoy greater amount of robust resale values.

This directory showcases the 10 pickups amongst the rock bottom visual expense for 2008 — the trucks that are likely to depreciate the numerous during the ownership period. We've argued the fee of its earliest market worth such a each truck is possible to retain subsequent to five years in an annual mileage of 15,000. Residual price level percentages are based on the nationwide True Market Value (TMV®) price, plus usual opportunities and target charge.

These trucks are not as dismal a bet as you'd think. For one thing, a couple of them come with bargain-basement worth tags, making them choices to ponder for those on a budget. Also, these kinds of trucks can be virtual steals when purchased on the used market, since you will perhaps be able to purchase a pickup on currently directory for a lot less than you'd pay for a competing car with a sturdier resale value.

1. 2008 Mazda B-Series Truck — 33.2%

2. 2008 Isuzu i-Series — 34.7%

3. 2008 Ford Ranger — 36.8%

4. 2008 Mitsubishi Raider — 37.0%

5. 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 — 37.9%

6. 2008 Nissan Titan — 38.3% (tie)

7. 2008 Dodge Dakota — 38.3% (tie)

8. 2008 Ford F-150 — 38.9%

9. 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 — 39.9%


7. 2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT — 38.4%


8. 2008 Ford F-150 — 38.9%


9. 2008 Dodge Ram 2500 — 39.9%

Quality Cars

Of course if they do prep the car prior to wash it slows the speed, cuts down the volume of cars that can be washed in the day and changes the consistency of each car washed due to the human element. Now, if you are looking at new cars, is buying or leasing a better option for you.

By 1914, he was building more cars in one day than most competitors could build in one year. By downplaying the appearance of the cars-calling them "wrecks" he allowed the media to expect dented, scratched, beat-up cars. By cleverly designing their buildings, they can stack 10-12 cars between the order point and pickup, so the customer waits 3 minutes but moves every 18 seconds so time flies by. I had names for my cars and machines and an uncommon ability to repair them. Cars have changed a lot over the years and my uncle wants someone who can not only turn a wrench, but be able to read a computer. If you have purchased energy efficient cars or heating/cooling devices make sure you claim this credit on your income tax.

Well really there are many things they can do, from giving out coupons to senior citizens, for 80% off to free detailing for the local church who has cars donated to them to sell. You may have a great idea for flying cars, but if consumers are not ready for your product you may not be able to turn your idea into a successful business. After gathering this information, he started taking me in the direction of the jeeps and sports cars.

For example, if you were selling big, gas-guzzling cars, you would stress the comfort, luxury interiors, prestige, reliability and smooth riding capacity of the car. That's why many automobile makers design cars that are categorized as "woman cars".

Soli Kator

http://www.i-need-money-fast.com

Tips for buying used car

When it comes time to make any major purchase, most buyers are interested in one core concept: getting the most for their money. This is especially true in the used vehicle market, where there is no set price for a particular vehicle. And when you add up the costs of vehicle ownership—mainly price, insurance, and depreciation—it becomes clear that there is no better value than buying used. On top of that, the selection is virtually endless, and all the extra options that you may not be able to splurge for on a new car suddenly become affordable. Cars are also now built to last longer than ever, and problems that were common two decades ago now occur with much less frequency.

But while used cars represent the peak of value, they can also represent the peak of risk. Everyone has heard stories of car buyers getting saddled with lemons, and having no recourse. Familiarizing yourself with all these potential risks is the best way to avoid them, and this is easier than you think. Your story can end happily if you stay informed from the start, and know what to expect every step of the way.

What's Right for You?

Only you can ultimately decide the type of vehicle you'd like to pursue, but you have all the help you'll need right at your fingertips. The internet is the most valuable tool for vehicle research, and it can help you get a very specific idea about what you're looking for, even down to the particular vehicle, well before you decide to start contacting vehicle sellers and taking test drives.

If your options are completely open, it's a good idea to start by determining your preferred vehicle body style. It should be in line with your personal taste, of course, but also consider what you'll need from your vehicle. How many passengers will you regularly need to accommodate? What about cargo room and towing capacity? Gas mileage and safety features? Examine your lifestyle, anticipate whether or not it will be changing in the near future, and be specific—the used vehicle spectrum is wide enough to have something for everybody. Once you have a body style in mind, you can use it to tailor your searches right here on AutoTrader.com, as well as read extensive model information and even compare models side-by-side. Consumer and expert reviews are also widely available for most models, and can factor heavily into your search.

Once you've chosen one or two models to focus on, you can further narrow your options by setting a strict budget and examining the mileage of a used vehicle. A vehicle's mileage only tells a small portion of the whole story of how it has been treated and whether routine maintenance has been performed—however, it will factor into the price of the vehicle quite a bit. A popular rule of thumb is to look for vehicles with not much more than 12,000 miles per year since they were built.

Find out as much as you can about a vehicle before you go see it. The wide selection of used vehicles on the market means you don't need to waste your time with a vehicle that doesn't meet your standards. In particular, finding out the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a must. The VIN is included in many online car listings; otherwise, getting it from the seller should be no hassle. It's all the information you need to receive comprehensive Vehicle History Reports from CARFAX. A one-time fee will allow you to get CARFAX Reports on an unlimited number of cars, as well as model-specific Safety and Reliability Reports. A Vehicle History Report tells you if a vehicle has ever been totaled, flooded or stolen, if its odometer has been tampered with, and plenty of other useful facts that must check out for you to proceed with a purchase.

Caution is also necessary when using the internet to shop. Further protect yourself by reading our Fraud Awareness Tips.

Money Matters

By now you should have a short list of vehicles to examine in person, but before you go, you should have a financial plan in place. This doesn't just mean setting a strict budget for the price of the car, but also considering other costs of ownership, such as insurance rates. Also, most used cars either have very little warranty left or none at all. Examine your extended warranty options and see if one would be right for you.

With LendingTree.com, you can choose the best loan for you within minutes from up to 4 lenders. Plus tips and advice on securing the best loan.

There is also, of course, the issue of price. It's important to keep in mind that value is in the eye of the beholder, and purchase price will be determined by how much the buyer or seller is willing to budge—but more on that later. At the start, a good indicator of a vehicle's worth is easy to find by searching for it on NADAGuides.com.

By now you have the makings of an ideal used vehicle shopping packet, which you can take with you for quick reference when you go out to shop. It should include:

* Any applicable CARFAX Vehicle History Reports
* Your credit report, if you're planning to finance through a dealership
* Several price quotes
* Car loan pre-approval information
* Insurance quotes
* Extended warranty quotes
* Pricing information for your current car, if you're considering a trade-in
* A notebook, to record everything you learn during the inspection and test drive

Time to Drive

Now, all that's left before you go is placing a phone call to set up a test drive. While you're on the phone, verify the information you've already learned from the Vehicle History Report. Ask if they have service records to back up their upkeep of the vehicle, and try to get a general feel for them and why they're selling the car. If sellers seem to waver in their answers, you'll know to tread carefully and be vigilant for other red flags.

During your first inspection of the vehicle, be sure to examine every part of the interior and exterior and look for any flaws that could potentially affect your decision, or lower your asking price. It's often helpful to bring along a mechanically inclined friend to point out things you might have missed. If you're able, also examine the area where the car is normally parked; a stained driveway or parking lot may be a warning sign that the car has a potentially problematic fluid leak.

A car's VIN will also come in handy during your initial inspection. It's commonly displayed on the driver's side of the dash (viewable through the windshield), and it may also be located the front of the engine block, or in various other places depending on the particular model. Find out all the places where the VIN should be located and see if they match up—mismatched VINs are a telltale sign of major body work.

When you get behind the wheel, there are a number of things you can do to make the most out of your test drive. Here are some questions you should be asking yourself while test driving a used vehicle:

* Does the vehicle have enough head and leg room for everybody who will regularly ride in it?
* Does it have the acceleration you're looking for?
* Does it slow smoothly when you brake?
* How does it feel on bumpy roads?
* Are the interior controls and displays easily accessible and readable?

Listen carefully for any abnormal noises that may suggest problems. If you hear anything, or even if you don't, another important piece of advice still applies: your safest bet is always to get any vehicle checked out by a certified third-party mechanic.

Name Your Price

When you've decided on the car you want, it's time to get down to the numbers. The car's value on NADAGuides.com should be considered, but that number should always be matched up against what you discover during your inspections and test drives. Often times, your initial offer will have nothing to do with the seller's asking price, but you will have plenty of concrete information and research to back up your offer. Don't be afraid to make a low offer, and if you have to move up, do so in small increments. If you have a price ceiling set, don't budge from it. However, you also should be willing to make sacrifices for quality. The car with the lowest sticker price can often end up costing you much more in the long run, not to mention the headaches of having to make time for numerous trips to the service shop.

If at any point you don't have a good feeling about your negotiation, don't be afraid to walk out the door; hopefully you won't have to. Everybody negotiates in their own way, and bringing along your ample internet research is a huge first step to getting a great deal. Knowledge is power!

Close the Deal

Before you sign anything, make sure to get everything you've been promised in writing—especially anything that relates to a money-back guarantee or any other kind of warranty. Even then, only sign an "As Is" paper if you know you're getting a pristine vehicle, because that document overrides anything else you've been promised. By this point, you should know just as much about the vehicle as the seller does, but you should still leave nothing to chance. And after all the paperwork is in order, you can drive away smiling, knowing that you've maximized your value.

What is a GPS System?

GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” A GPS is a Global Navigation Satellite System that uses a number of satellites to send transmission data from earth, to the satellite, and back again.

A Global Positioning System requires the use of a receiver that enables the system to determine elements such as location, time, direction, and speed.

Today, it is common to see cars that have GPS systems included, however you may be surprised to discover that the GPS system was designed and developed by the United States Department of Defense. Originally, the system was referred to as the Navstar GPS, but today people simply refer to it as a GPS.

In addition to all of the military uses for a GPS system, civilians have found it to be an incredible navigational tool that is conductive for every day life.

If your car is stolen, you can track where it has been taken with GPS. You can program in your point of departure and destination and your GPS will give you complete directions for a trip. It can tell you how long your trip will take and the exact route you should take.

The GPS system is comprised of twenty-four satellites that circle the earth twice per day. The receiver contacts the satellite and in turn, can return a user’s exact location, including the time that the data was received from the satellite.

What is fascinating to note, is that when the satellite receives the information regarding the user’s location, it determines where the person is located, based on the amount of time it takes for the satellite to obtain the information from the receiver. This is a process known as triangulation.

Since there are twenty-four satellites in orbit, the GPS system doesn’t just rely on the information obtained from one. It uses several more satellites to create a latitude and longitude reading. Then, the system begins to add all of the coordinates and information together and creates an electronic map.

Today’s GPS systems are extremely accurate. The twenty-four satellites are constantly in motion, circling the earth. They have been estimated to travel at speeds of 7,000 miles per hour. They receive information by transmitting signals. The signals are low radio frequencies on channels L1 and L2.

However, although today’s GPS systems are far superior to when they were first in operation, back in 1978, there are still factors that can cause faulty signals and data.

Some of the most common factors that can affect the signal and its accuracy include delays in the Ionosphere and Troposphere, Signal multipaths, Clock errors in the receivers, Errors in Orbit, The number of Satellites that are visible, and a weak satellite signal.

The uses of a GPS system are vast, and they have helped increase and enhance safety for our citizens. In addition, the GPS system is a phenomenal navigational tool that is vital to every traveler.

9 Ways To Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs

1. Shop Around

Prices vary from company to company, so it pays to shop around. Get at least three price quotes. You can call companies directly or access information on the Internet. Your state insurance department may also provide comparisons of prices charged by major insurers. (State insurance department phone numbers and Web sites can be found here.)

You buy insurance to protect you financially and provide peace of mind. It's important to pick a company that is financially stable. Check the financial health of insurance companies with rating companies such as A.M. Best (http://www.ambest.com) and Standard & Poor’s (http://www.standardandpoors.com/) and consult consumer magazines.

Get quotes from different types of insurance companies. Some sell through their own agents. These agencies have the same name as the insurance company. Some sell through independent agents who offer policies from several insurance companies. Others do not use agents. They sell directly to consumers over the phone or via the Internet.

Don't shop price alone. Ask friends and relatives for their recommendations. Contact your state insurance department to find out whether they provide information on consumer complaints by company. Pick an agent or company representative that takes the time to answer your questions. You can use the checklist on the back of this brochure to help you compare quotes from insurers and on the same coverage.

2. Before You Buy a Car, Compare Insurance Costs

Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the car’s sticker price, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record, and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft. These include daytime running lights and anti-theft devices. To help you decide what car to buy, you can get information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).

3. Ask for Higher Deductibles

Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.

4. Reduce Coverage on Older Cars

Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars. Or you can look it up online at Kelley’s Blue Book (http://www.kbb.com). Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance needs haven’t changed.

5. Buy your Homeowners and Auto Coverage from the Same Insurer

Many insurers will give you a break if you buy two or more types of insurance. You may also get a reduction if you have more than one vehicle insured with the same company. Some insurers reduce the rates for long-time customers. But it still makes sense to shop around! You may save money buying from different insurance companies, compared with a multi-policy discount.

6. Maintain a Good Credit Record

Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Insurers are increasingly using credit information to price auto insurance policies. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don't obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.

7. Take Advantage of Low Mileage Discounts

Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles a year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work.

8. Ask about Group Insurance

Some companies offer reductions to drivers who get insurance through a group plan from their employers, through professional, business and alumni groups, or other associations. Ask your employer and inquire with groups or clubs you are a member of to see if this is possible.

9. Seek Out Other Discounts

Companies offer discounts to policyholders who have not had any accidents or moving violations for a number of years. You may also get a discount if you take a defensive driving course. If there is a young driver on the policy who is a good student, has taken a drivers education course or is at a college out of the area without a car, you may also qualify for a lower rate.

New Cab at New York?

Kia Motors America Partners With the Design Trust for Public Space to Celebrate the Centennial of the Modern-Day Taxi

In honor of the 100th anniversary of the modern-day taxi in New York City, the all-new Kia Rondo crossover is among the vehicles to be reinvented into an iconic yellow cab, as part of Taxi '07, a project of the Design Trust for Public Space. This new collaborative process is intended to engage design professionals in fundamental civic planning.

Automakers were challenged to incorporate practical solutions into their taxi prototypes, addressing areas such as partitions that incorporate passenger services, roof lights with improved legibility, integrated child safety seats, wheelchair accessibility and fuel efficiency.

The all-new Kia Rondo, which offers innovative design, packaging and driving dynamics, provides both drivers and passengers with a spacious, comfortable and safe ride while occupying a small footprint - an ideal combination for New York City streets. Not only is Rondo's footprint smaller than the Ford Crown Victoria, NYC's leading taxi, it is also more fuel-efficient.

Kia Motors America (KMA) collaborated with a consortium of NYC-based design firms led by Smart Design to build two Rondo taxi prototypes. Both vehicles were built to be safer, more accessible and more efficient than a conventional cab. The design solutions developed by Smart Design, along with Antenna Design and Birsel + Seck, have greatly improved the user experience for both the passengers and driver. Antenna Design worked to create a more legible taxi roof light, which quickly communicates the cab's availability status in a variety of lighting situations. Smart Design with Birsel + Seck designed an interior space that keeps the driver's belongings organized and accessible, and installed an L-shaped partition to protect the driver while creating a more open social environment for the passengers. A Bruno motorized front passenger seat for those with limited mobility as well as an integrated, fold-down child seat were added for extra passenger accessibility, comfort and safety.

saurce: Worldcarfans