Buyers Tips for the Best Price
February 5, 2015
Are you prepared for the right-of-passage experience of buying your first car? Feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices? Or possibly a little out of your league in the price-negotiating department? We have all the answers right here, so get ready for worthwhile session of Buyers Tips for the Best Price.
Tip #1: Shop Overstock
It seems like dealers are always overstocked these days. That’s why it’s a good idea to consider buying less popular leftovers that the dealers are anxious to get rid of. Here is a list of some of the least popular and most-discounted cars: Least Popular Cars
Tip #2: Stay Practical
It’s tempting to go big with a 4×4 truck, or fast with a sporty Camaro. However, it’s best to stay practical and buy a vehicle suited for everyday use. For most people, that means a simple sedan or small, efficient hybrid. Don’t be like the 90% of off-road SUV owners who never touch the dirt, or big truck drivers that never use their massive towing capabilities.
Tip #3: Avoid Cheap Frills
Paying for all the bells and whistles is sure to make the price skyrocket. Not everyone needs a top-dollar stereo, rear-view cameras and heated seats. Even fewer people need the common dealer scam of special (and specially overpriced) undercoating and Scotchguard.
Tip #4: Be Open
Keep an open relationship with your brand of choice. You may be a Chevy-lover, or your family may be married to Ford, but your heart won’t get as good of a price as your brain. Use that thinker and consider all the brands, all the prices, and all the features that matter to you.
Lane Change Etiquette
April 14, 2014
If you want to change lanes in traffic, you need to know how to do it correctly. Official laws concerning lane changes can vary from state to state, but for the most part, police will readily pull over any driver that changes lanes in a dangerous manner. For this reason, it’s best to learn all the nuances of lane-changing etiquette.
Never change lanes in a blind spot. This is especially important when changing lanes next to larger trucks and 18-wheelers. Instead, try to change lanes before you hit their blind spot, or continue in your own lane until you pass their blind spot. Remember, if you can’t see their mirrors then they can’t see you.
Always check your blind spot. After checking your mirrors and making sure your vehicle is a safe distance from those ahead of you, take a quick glance over your shoulder to check your blind spot before changing lanes.
Use your blinkers. They are there to warn other drivers of the direction you intend to go. Police are always on the lookout for drivers weaving between lanes without blinkers, making the highways more dangerous for everyone around.
Don’t tailgate. There is no reason to tailgate a vehicle before switching lanes to pass them. It’s not smart, it’s certainly not safe, and you can actually get ticketed for it. If you notice that the driver ahead of you is moving at a slower pace, then prepare to switch lanes before you are riding their bumper.
Don’t cutoff other vehicles. This is an offense that puts people’s lives in danger, and if an officer sees you cutting off another driver they will ticket you for either a) reckless driving, b) unsafe lane change, or c) aggressive driving. These can be serious offenses, which result in a greater number of marks on your record and higher insurance rates.
Don’t linger in the fast lane after passing a vehicle. If you have changed lanes to pass another vehicle, then move back over after you can see both of their headlights in your rearview mirror. This allows other vehicles to use the fast lane for passing, aiding in traffic flow and making the highway safer for all drivers. Plus, many states have made it illegal to obstruct traffic by cruising in the left lane.
Following these rules of the road will not only make you a safer driver, but also a smarter and more courteous driver, which makes the roads safer and more pleasant for everyone involved.
National Car Care Month
March 30, 2014
April 1st is April Fool’s Day, but it’s also known as the beginning of National Car Care Month. So be sure to give your ride a good tune up, and you won’t end up looking like the April Fool who didn’t take good care of his car. You can either go to a trusted mechanic, or follow these 10 basic maintenance procedures to ensure your wheels are safe and road-worthy for the spring season.
1. Check the fluids. This includes windshield wiper fluid, antifreeze/coolant, engine oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid and transmission fluid.
2. Check the battery. Make sure your battery is clean, tight, corrosion-free and working right. Replace if necessary.
3. Check the hoses and belts. Make sure they aren’t cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or damaged in any way.
4. Check the brakes. Check your brakes annualy and make sure they are inspected at each oil change.
5. Check the tires. Inspect the tires for any bumps, bulges or bald spots. Use a penny to test your tread, and a tire gauge to check the pressure. Change as necessary, and get the tires rotated and aligned.
6. Inspect the exhaust system. Listen for any unusual noise. Check for leaks, damage, or broken supports. If there is any damage get it worked on right away.
7. Check the HVAC system. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning are important both for comfort and for defrosting capabilities.
8. Check the wipers. Replace worn wiper blades so you can see during those inevitable spring showers.
9. Check the lights. Exterior lights are important both for safety and legal reasons. This includes the headlights, tail lights, brake lights and license plate lights. Yes, you can get pulled over for a dim license plate light.
10. Check the steering and suspension. This includes shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts.