How to Best Prepare Your Car for Trade-In
If you plan on trading in your car, it’s important to take specific steps to prepare it first. You may think your car is clean and in good condition. However, there is often room for improvement, and forgetting something important is easy. The following steps will help you maximize your vehicle’s trade-in value towards your next car, ensuring you get the dealer’s best possible offer.
Detailing the Interior and Exterior
If you intend to trade in a car, start by thoroughly cleaning your vehicle. Dirt and mess accumulate over time and it’s easy for this to add up, often without you realizing just how messy your car is.
- Wash the car inside and out, including the wheels. If you have any stubborn stains or marks on the exterior, use a clay bar to remove them.
- Use a wheel cleaner and a tire shine to make the wheels and tires look new.
- Remove all the trash and clutter from the interior, and vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Clean the dashboard and seats with an upholstery cleaner. Use a microfiber cloth to clean the surfaces.
- Use an odor eliminator to remove any unwanted smells from the car.
- Clean the windows inside and out using a glass cleaner.
- Check that the headlights and taillights are clean and fully functioning.
- Use touch-up paint to cover up any scratches or dents.
- Finally, to prepare car for trade in, remove any personal items from the vehicle, such as photographs, valuables, CDs, GPS devices, and other accessories.
Addressing Minor Repairs
If you’re wondering how do trade ins work, then the simple answer is that the better condition your car is in, the higher value it has. It may be more expensive to fix big problems, and you’re unlikely to recover large repair expenses, but more minor issues may cost less than the increased value they add to your trade-in, helping you get more towards a new car.
- Take your car to a mechanic for an inspection. This will help you find any problems that need to be fixed and give you an idea of the cost.
- If the inspection reveals any mechanical issues, such as problems with the engine or transmission, get them fixed before trading in your car.
- In case of scratches and dents, fix them. This can help you get a better price and make a good first impression on the dealer.
- If parts of your car are worn out, such as tires or brakes, replace them before trading in your vehicle.
Preparing Your Trade-In Documentation
Collect all the documents related to the car. The requirements may differ slightly from one dealership to another but generally include the following:
- Vehicle Title: To prove ownership of the vehicle.
- Registration: This shows that the car has been registered with the state. Make sure this is current and up-to-date.
- Loan Information: If you still owe money on your car loan, you must provide the dealer with information about the loan, including the name of the lender, the loan account number, and the amount owed.
- Valid Identification: A document, such as a driver’s license, is required to verify your identity.
- Service Records: These could be maintenance or repair receipts. It’s helpful to bring them with you to the dealer. They can show that the car has been well-maintained.
Getting a Professional Evaluation
An appraisal from a third party will help you in the following ways:
- An assessment will help you determine the actual value of your car so that you can negotiate a fair price with the dealer. The appraiser will consider the car’s age, mileage, condition, and market demand to calculate its value.
- If the dealer offers you a price lower than the appraised value, you can use the appraisal to back up your argument for a higher price.
- You can avoid wasting time negotiating with dealers unwilling to offer a fair price. Instead, you can focus on the best place to trade in a car, where the dealers are willing to pay a reasonable price based on the appraisal.
Whether you’re trading in your car or just looking for a new or additional car, Allways Atascosa has the expertise to help you find the right vehicle.
4 Signs Your Car Needs New Tires
There are lots of things we put off in our lives. However, replacing tires shouldn’t be one of them. Waiting can put you at greater risk of having an accident, lower your vehicle’s performance, and lead to increased costs of repairs or replacements. You will also break the law if your tires don’t meet the minimum tread depth. Here are four signs to look out for that your tires could need replacing.
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Insufficient Tread Depth
If there is little or no tread on tires, this can be dangerous, particularly on wet surfaces. The minimum should be 1.6 mm, but if you often drive in the rain and other harsh conditions, you should aim for twice that. Otherwise, you will experience longer stopping distances, which increases your chances of an accident.
Low-tread tires can also mean a higher chance of punctures and blowouts, besides reducing fuel efficiency. One simple way to check the tread on older tires that don’t have tread wear indicator bars is to use a penny. If you insert this between the grooves (with the head facing down), you can still see Lincoln’s entire head; the tread is too low and you need new tires.
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Uneven Wear on the Inside
If you notice the tire tread worn on inside of the tires, it could be time to replace your tires. However, if this happens regularly, you might benefit from speaking to a professional and ensuring your new tires are fitted correctly and that your wheel alignment is proper.
Avoid driving with tires in this condition because it could lead to steering and suspension problems. It may be tempting to drive short distances, but it’s not worth the risk to you and your family’s safety.
The issue could also be a puncture causing the misalignment. It could also be caused by the toe settings going out of alignment or worn ball joints. Unless you’re skilled in fixing these types of issues, it can be quicker and more cost-effective to have a professional fix the problem, and you can avoid making it worse.
This should make your new tires last longer and make your vehicle safer.
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Excessive Vibration While Driving
There will always be some vibration while driving. However, too much wear can indicate you need new tires, especially if this often happens, even when you’re not driving on rougher terrain.
Continuing to drive when there’s too much vibration can cause severe tire damage, but there are other problems you should check for before buying new tires. Too much vibration could be caused by brakes that need to be fixed, broken motor mounts, worn-out parts, low levels of transmission fluid, or problems with your suspension system.
Tires needing replacement are just one possibility out of many others. So if you’re asking yourself, “When do I need new tires? It helps to get your car looked at by someone qualified to look for all the possibilities, including those you may have overlooked.
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Cracks or Bulges in the Tire
Cracks or bulges in your tires are a serious safety concern and can put you at risk of a tire blowout while driving. Exposure to the elements, like sunlight and extreme temperatures, can cause cracks, weakening the tire’s structure. Bulges can be caused by impacts, such as hitting a pothole or curb. Cracks and bulges can cause a loss of air pressure and affect the tire’s performance.
If you notice any cracks or bulges on your tires, it’s important to replace them immediately. Driving on damaged tires can increase the risk of an accident and cause further damage to your vehicle. Regularly inspecting your tires for any signs of damage is essential for your safety on the road. If you’re unsure about the condition of your tires, it’s always best to have a professional mechanic inspect them to ensure your safety.
Regularly checking your tires will help you notice any potential problems. Whether you need tires, new parts, a service for your vehicle, or a new car, Allways Atascosa will be happy to help you.
10 Expert Tips for Buying Your Next Car
Are you in the market for a new car? Whether you’re buying your first car or your fifth, it’s important to go into the process with a plan in place. Not only will this help you get the best deal, but it will also ensure that you end up with a car that meets your needs and budget. In this post, we’ll share 10 expert tips to help you navigate the car buying process and make a smart purchase. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect car for you.
- Set a budget and stick to it – unless you’re feeling particularly reckless and have a few extra hundred thousand lying around. In that case, go nuts.
- Do your research and compare different makes and models – unless you’re the spontaneous type who likes to live life on the edge. In that case, just close your eyes and point at the first car you see.
- Consider fuel efficiency and ongoing maintenance costs – or you could just go for the gas-guzzler with a track record of breaking down every other week. Your call.
- Think about your driving habits and choose a car that meets your needs – unless you’re a masochist, in which case you should definitely choose the tiny sports car with no legroom and a loud exhaust.
- Test drive multiple cars to get a feel for what you like – or you could just blindly trust the sketchy car salesman and skip this step altogether.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate and shop around for the best deal – unless you want to get ripped off.
- Consider purchasing a certified pre-owned car – or you could just buy a lemon and hope for the best.
- Get a Carfax report to check for any past issues or accidents – or you could just close your eyes and hope for the best.
- Take your time and don’t feel rushed into making a decision – unless you like making rash decisions and regretting them later.
- Don’t forget to factor in additional costs, such as insurance and taxes – unless you’re planning on living off the grid and not paying any of those pesky fees.
In conclusion, buying a car is a big decision that requires some planning and preparation. By following the tips outlined in this post, you’ll be able to make a smart and informed decision that fits your budget and meets your needs. Don’t forget to set a budget, do your research, consider fuel efficiency and ongoing maintenance costs, test drive multiple cars, negotiate for the best deal, consider purchasing a CPO car, get a Carfax report, take your time, and factor in additional costs.
Remember, the key to a successful car purchase is being prepared and doing your own research. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek out resources that can help you make the best decision. With these expert tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect car for you.
Introduction:
Are you considering replacing or upgrading the parts on your car? If so, you may be weighing the pros and cons of using aftermarket parts versus OEM parts. Aftermarket parts can be an attractive option due to their lower cost, but they also come with some potential drawbacks. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the mistakes that consumers can make when using aftermarket parts, and why it may be a better idea to stick with OEM parts in the long run.
What are Aftermarket Parts?
Before diving into the potential pitfalls of using aftermarket parts, let’s first define what they are. Aftermarket parts are replacement parts that are manufactured by companies other than the original manufacturer of a vehicle. These parts are designed to fit and function in the same way as the original parts, but they are often cheaper because they are not produced by the car’s manufacturer.
Mistake #1: Assuming All Aftermarket Parts are Equal in Quality
One of the biggest mistakes that consumers make when using aftermarket parts is assuming that all of these parts are equal in quality. In reality, the quality of aftermarket parts can vary widely. Some aftermarket parts are of high quality and can be a reliable alternative to OEM parts, while others may be poorly made and prone to breaking or malfunctioning.
Mistake #2: Underestimating the Importance of Compatibility
Another mistake that consumers can make when using aftermarket parts is underestimating the importance of compatibility. It’s important to ensure that any replacement parts you use are compatible with your car’s make and model. If the parts are not a perfect fit, they may not function correctly and could potentially cause damage to your vehicle. OEM parts, on the other hand, are designed specifically for your car and are guaranteed to be compatible.
Mistake #3: Skipping the Warranty
Some aftermarket parts come with a warranty, while others do not. If you opt for an aftermarket part that does not come with a warranty, you could be taking a risk. If the part fails or causes problems with your car, you may have to pay for the repairs out of pocket. In contrast, OEM parts typically come with a warranty from the manufacturer, so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any issues.
Conclusion:
While aftermarket parts can be a tempting option due to their lower cost, there are several potential mistakes that consumers can make when using them. From assuming that all aftermarket parts are equal in quality to underestimating the importance of compatibility and skipping the warranty, these mistakes can end up costing you more in the long run. If you want to ensure that your car is running smoothly and safely, it’s often a better idea to stick with OEM parts.
The Top 9 Car Buying Mistakes to Avoid
Are you in the market for a new car? If so, it’s important to avoid making common mistakes that can end up costing you time, money, and frustration. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the top 9 car-buying mistakes to avoid.
- Not doing your research.
Before you start shopping for a new car, it’s important to do your homework. Research different makes and models, compare prices and features, and read reviews from other drivers. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid overpaying for a car that doesn’t meet your needs. - Focusing on monthly payments.
Many car salespeople will try to focus on the monthly payment when negotiating a car deal. However, this can be a trap. By focusing on the monthly payment, you may end up agreeing to a higher interest rate or a longer loan term, which can end up costing you more in the long run. Instead, focus on the total cost of the car, including the price, financing, and any additional fees. - Skipping the test drive.
Before you buy a car, it’s important to take it for a test drive. This will give you a chance to experience how the car handles, feels, and performs on the road. Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson to take you on a longer or more challenging test drive. This will give you a better sense of how the car will perform in real-world driving conditions. - Neglecting to check the car’s history.
Before you buy a car, it’s important to check its history. This will give you valuable information about the car’s previous owners, any accidents or damage it has sustained, and any outstanding recalls or issues. You can check the car’s history by using a service like CARFAX or AutoCheck. - Not negotiating the price.
Many car buyers are hesitant to negotiate the price of a car, but this is a mistake. In most cases, the price of a car is negotiable, and you can often save thousands of dollars by negotiating with the salesperson. Don’t be afraid to make an offer and see if the salesperson is willing to come down on the price. - Failing to consider the total cost of ownership.
When buying a car, it’s important to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the ongoing costs of ownership. These can include things like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and repairs. Be sure to factor these costs into your decision andchoose a carthat will be affordable to own in the long term. - Not shopping around.
It’s important to shop around and compare prices from different dealerships and sources. Don’t just go to one dealership and assume that their price is the best you can get. Instead, look at prices from multiple sources and see if you can find a better deal elsewhere. - Buying without a budget.
Before you start shopping for a car, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Determine how much you can afford to spend on a car, and don’t let the salesperson talk you into spending more. By setting a budget, you’ll be able to avoid overspending and end up with a car that fits your financial situation. - Forgetting about hidden costs.
Whenbuying a car, there are often hidden costs that can add up and affect your budget. These can include things like taxes, registration fees, and extra charges for things like extended warranties or gap insurance. Be sure to ask the salesperson about these costs and factor them into your decision.
In conclusion, buying a new car can be a big decision and it’s important to avoid common mistakes. Research different makes and models, compare prices and features, and read reviews from other drivers before making a decision. Be wary of focusing on monthly payments and negotiate the price of the car. Test drive the car and check its history before making a purchase. Consider the total cost of ownership and shop around for the best deal. Set a budget and be aware of hidden costs. By avoiding these mistakes, you can save time, money, and frustration when buying a new car.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a New Car?
Buying a new truck, car, or SUV can mean making many decisions; from make and model to color and features, there’s a lot to consider. The journey toward a new vehicle might also have you asking, “When will car prices go down?”
Will Car Prices Drop in 2022?
The short answer from economists is probably not. Car lots are no exception to the supply chain issues that have plagued everyone since the pandemic. But that doesn’t mean you can’t save some money at all. When to get a new car, truck or SUV does matter. If your timing is right, you can snag a great deal.
Timing Matters
One of the best opportunities to buy is at a year-end sales event. There are good reasons you can save during the holiday season; unsold inventory needs to move off the lot before 2023 to make space for the new models. If you shop the last week of December, it’s possible to save. Perhaps you can’t wait until the calendar runs out. That’s OK. Good deals can be found at the end of each month, too.
Sales events are often held for holidays (and not just Christmas). You can find everything from discounts to special financing on the weekends around Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Model changeovers are also an excellent time to buy. Purchasing the previous year’s version allows you to pick up a deal when models change. While you’ll still be getting all the great benefits of a new car, you could save some money. The main downside is that you may have fewer options, so flexibility in your wish list will be essential. If you absolutely must have candy apple red and a moonroof, you could be boxing yourself in and may miss out on a great deal on the silver version with no moonroof.
Do Your Homework
You can’t get a good deal if you don’t know what a good deal is, right? If you’re buying a new truck, car, or SUV, learn everything about the model you want. What are the standard features? What colors are available (and which ones do you like best)? Are you interested in any upgrades? Different types of trim? Add-ons? Unless you know these things, you might end up comparing apples to oranges, and you won’t know a good deal when you come across one.
Once you know what you want and you’re ready to narrow things down, even more, take a test drive. This is when the rubber meets the road, and you can determine if what you think is what you want.
What to Look for During the Test Drive
The most crucial part of the buying journey is taking a vehicle for a spin. While everything looks good on paper or online, you can’t know if a car is right for you until you are in it. Once you’re in the driver’s seat, drive it like you would in your everyday life.
If you are often on the highway, then get on the road. Drive in an area with lots of traffic lights to see how it behaves in stop-and-go situations. Although it’s tempting to set the volume to the maximum level, keep the stereo off so you can listen to the engine during the test drive.
Once you’re back at the dealership, get in and out, check the cargo space, and sit in the back to see what it will be like for your passengers. Now’s the time to crank that stereo.
It’s Time to Buy
Once you’ve done your research and decided on which features are must-haves and worth compromising on, you’re ready to keep an eye out for any deals. Maybe last year’s model is just right for you, or perhaps you’re good with waiting until the last week of the year to find a deal. But if you can’t wait and don’t want to compromise, a fair price is never out of the question.
Deciding when to get a new car, truck or SUV is entirely up to you. If you need help with any aspect of the buying process, contact us today. We’re happy to help you by email, phone, or in person.
Should I Lease or Buy a Car?
If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, you might be wondering about the difference between lease and finance and which option might be best for you. The answer is that it depends on your unique set of circumstances and your end goal. To help you figure everything out, let’s start by defining the difference.
What Does Financing a Car Mean?
Financing a car means getting a loan from a financial institution to buy a car. So how do car loans work? Well, you’ll make payments to the lender over a set period. The costs will include the amount of money you borrowed, interest, and fees. In the end, you own the car.
What Does Leasing a Car Mean?
Leasing a car simply means that you are renting it. You are paying for the ability to use the vehicle rather than buying it. During your lease, you’ll pay the cost of the rent, as well as taxes and fees. When the lease is up, you’ll be required to return the vehicle in good condition.
Pros and Cons of Leasing
Like with almost anything, both options have pros and cons. But one is probably better suited for your needs than the other. The benefits of leasing a car can be:
- Lower monthly payments
- Lower upfront out-of-pocket cost
- Generally covered by a warranty
- No sales tax to worry about
- No concerns about depreciation
Of course, one of the most significant downsides to leasing a car is that you won’t own it even after all the money you’ve put into it. Lease contracts can also be complicated, which makes it hard to shop for the best deal. Here are some of the other cons of leasing to consider:
- Potentially higher insurance premiums
- Nickle and dimed for excessive wear and tear
- Fees and penalties for putting too many miles on the car
- Fees for terminating the lease early
- You’ll end up with no trade-in
Pros and Cons of Financing
The ultimate benefit to financing is that the car will be your property once the loan is paid in full. Some of the other benefits of financing are:
- No limits on your mileage
- Lower insurance costs
- The right to sell the car whenever you want
- Freedom to make modifications or customize the vehicle
The downside to financing could be a higher monthly payment, but this isn’t always the case. Some other cons to consider:
- More upfront costs (sales tax and down payment)
- Depreciation of the vehicle
- Maintenance costs once the warranty is up
Should I Lease or Finance?
The decision depends on what you need and what is most important to you. If you like driving something new every few years, don’t need to go on long-haul road trips a lot, or don’t have a lot of money upfront, leasing might be the right option. Some leases also allow you to have the opportunity to buy the car when the lease ends too.
If you prefer a long-term option, you will want to buy. Financing and owning a vehicle is also the right choice if you must put on many miles or want to make customizations to your car, truck, or SUV. You won’t be able to do those things with a leased vehicle. Leases limit the miles you are allowed to drive each year, and if you go over, there are fees you must agree to pay per mile. That can get pretty expensive if you aren’t careful.
The consensus is that it generally makes more financial sense to go for ownership rather than a rental. But the choice is yours. Depending on your wants, needs, and circumstances, one might be a better path than the other.
If you need help concerning any aspect of the buying or financing process, contact us today. We’re happy to help you by email, phone, or in person.
How Much to Save Up for a New Car?
Whether your old car is breaking down or you are simply ready for a new ride, saving up for a new car is a process you want to consider. There’s so much to consider when buying a new vehicle that you want to give yourself some runway to make sure you get the decision right.
This is to say, saving up for a new car means more than just having the money for it. You must understand how to find the specific model you prefer, the features, the payment plan, etc. So, if you are wondering, “how much should I save for a car?” look no further. By the end of this blog, you’ll know everything about saving up for a new car.
Step 1: Budgeting
The first step to saving up for a new car is to figure out how much money you can spare to afford one. When considering how to budget for a car, you need to consider other factors besides the specific model you prefer.
It will only be one expense, and you’ll need to consider all other costs when budgeting, such as rent, bills, groceries, etc. This is an excellent opportunity to take a broad look at your finances and see where you can make some cuts. Or, maybe you decide that certain things are more valuable to you than a car. If that’s the case, you will be happy that you looked at your finances to figure out what was most important to you.
When budgeting for a car, you also must consider the other expenses that go along with it. Inevitably, you will have to have work done on it. You are going to have to pay for insurance. Unless you get an all-electric vehicle, you will need to figure out a budget for gas.
Step 2: Pick a Car
After knowing how much you can spend on a car, you can start the fun part, shopping! Maybe you’ve always wanted a sports car. Or this purchase is more practical, and you live in a mountain town and need something that can handle rough terrain. Whatever style you prefer, you now know how much you can spend to get the car you want.
There are plenty of things to consider. Maybe you have your eye on one car, but another one at the same price has interior features that you just can’t live without. The miles per gallon of gas a vehicle gets is another huge thing to consider, as this can affect how much you expend on your car overall in the long run.
Once you’ve picked your car, it’s time to turn back to thinking about money.
Step 3: The Down Payment
For a lot of car buyers, this can be a thing that scares them. How do you find the best down payment for a car? Does a down payment go towards the car in the end?
We can answer both of those questions at the same time. However much you put down upfront, the less you will have to borrow in the long run. So, yes, the down payment goes toward the car, and, in theory, the best down payment is as much as you can manage. Some car companies will offer a zero-dollar down payment, which is great for people who don’t have much saved, but it means you will be paying that much more over time.
The recommended down payment on a new car is 20%. So, if the vehicle costs $20,000, ideally, you want to be able to put $4,000 down.
You might want to save up to make sure you can put a decent down payment on your car. Consider this: every payment plan will come with an interest rate. If you pay more at the start, you will have to pay less interest throughout your loan’s term.
If you are interested in buying a new car or just have a question you want to ask, contact us at Allways Atascosa today!
How Do Electric Cars Work?
This year, more and more electric vehicles (EVs) are getting out of dealerships and hitting the roads. The main reason? They’re environmentally friendly. These cars don’t produce harmful emissions and also cause minimal noise pollution.
But how do electric cars move from point A to point B? This post will take you through the main parts and systems that make EVs run. And don’t creep out because this won’t be an electrical engineering class. We’ll try to break down the complex topics into digestible ideas.
How Do Electric Cars Work?
First, it’s not always easy to know that a car is electric from the outside. One reason is that car manufacturers are eliminating internal combustion engines in existing models and replacing them with electric systems. One way to tell the difference is that EVs are almost silent in such a case.
Second, like automatic transmission cars, EVs have forward and reverse modes. Let’s now look at the most fundamental parts of an electric vehicle:
- Battery pack: Rechargeable batteries store electric energy through direct current (DC). In short, the pack functions like a fuel tank.
- Inverter: This device converts high-voltage DC power to lower-voltage alternating current (AC) power for car operations such as accessories. Likewise, the inverter converts AC from regenerative braking to DC for battery storage.
- Electric motor: Like an engine, an electric motor enables an EV to move. An electric motor is basically a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy.
It’s the same concept with the gas or diesel engine, but in the place of electricity, these engines use thermal energy (fuel combustion) and turn it into mechanical energy. An engine is a type of motor, but not all motors are engines.
- Controller: This is mainly controlled through the car’s pedal, and its primary purpose is regulating the flow of electrical energy from the batteries and inverter to the electric motor.
- Charge port: This is where the vehicle connects to an external power supply.
That said, let’s discuss this a bit more thoroughly and see what happens when you put the vehicle in gear and press the accelerator:
- The accelerator sends a signal to the controller to adjust the vehicle speed by altering the frequency of the AC power. This power is then sent from the inverter to the motor.
- Upon receiving a signal from the controller, the battery will transmit DC electrical energy to the inverter.
- With the aid of an inverter, the power in the batteries is converted from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) for the electric motor.
- The motor connects and turns the wheels via a cog. When you apply brakes, the electric motor becomes an alternator and sends power back to the batteries for storage. This is what is referred to as regenerative braking.
Types of Electric Cars
There are three main types of electric cars:
- Battery electric vehicles (BEVs)
These fully electric vehicles are exclusively powered by batteries and have no engine parts.
- Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs)
You’re probably wondering, “do hybrid cars use gas?” Well, these cars use a combination of an electric motor, a battery and a conventional internal combustion engine to reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, the battery is charged through regenerative braking, so you don’t have to plug the car into a power outlet.
- Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs)
This is similar to the hybrid but with a bigger battery and a more powerful electric motor. As a result, it’s possible to use the electric-only mode and completely bypass the internal combustion engine. Similarly, you can run exclusively on gas if the battery charge is used up. And while the car can automatically recharge the battery, you can choose to top up with either fuel or electricity because PHEVs have both a charging port and a gas tank.
Find a Car That Suits Your Needs
In a nutshell, environmentally friendly cars are the way to go. You will have minimal maintenance with an electric vehicle, which translates to clean and cheap motoring.
And if you’re thinking about investing in an EV, we are here to help. Contact us, and we’ll help you find the right car that suits your needs.
Should I Buy a New or Used Car?
You need a car but don’t know where to start. This is a common scenario for people in need of new wheels. If you’re new to the car market, shopping for a vehicle can feel hectic. Before you sit down and think about the price, make, and model, you need to decide if you want a new or used car. We can provide assistance if you’re stuck in the new vs. used car debate.
Here are some tips to help alleviate stress and help you get the car of your dreams:
Things to Consider When Buying a Car:
- Set a Budget and Stick to It
The first thing you need to do before you start looking is set a budget and stick to it. When looking at cars, it can be very easy to overlook price when being awed by things like features, premium interiors, and paint colors. Setting a budget can help veer you away from cars out of your price range and lower the risk of overspending.
- Find the Best Fit
Before the car hunt begins, ask yourself what you are looking for in a car. Are you looking for heated seats or maybe more space in the trunk? Start by listing non-negotiables and other car components you may be willing to budge on. Taller vehicles like SUVs are popular because they come equipped with an open back and can handle all kinds of weather. Heavier duty trucks like the Ram 1500 are suitable for the classic towing and long hauling of heavy equipment.
Why to Buy New?
Vehicle History – One of the benefits of buying a new car is that the owner doesn’t need to obtain previous reports since it’s fresh off the market. When looking at a used car, you may need to shuffle through lots of vehicle history, which can take time. You can visit websites like CARFAX if you’re looking for in-depth reports of the car’s history, including the number of owners, previous damages to the vehicle, and the services performed on them.
All the Glitz and Glam – Another benefit to buying a new car is all the incredible features. Upgraded seats, the latest technology, and better performance are just the tip of the iceberg when purchasing a new vehicle. Buying a used car is very unlikely to get all of your boxes checked off, and you may have to compromise.
Little to No Maintenance – When buying a new car, you get it fresh and unused. This includes little to no evaluation considering it’s in a new, peak condition and may not require a trip to the mechanic for a while. If your new car breaks down, you will likely have it fixed for free under the included factory warranty for the first miles.
Why Buy Used?
Save Big Bucks – If you aren’t looking to break the bank, buying a used car may be the way to go. Used cars are great options if you’re looking for a reliable but affordable set of wheels. When you spend less money on the car upfront, you can put extra money into upgrades to your car. If you want all the glitz and glam, upgrade your radio to a touchscreen or get new upholstery. These touches can easily create the wow factor without causing you to go over budget.
Lower Insurance Rates – Older vehicles are typically worth less money; therefore, it costs less to insure them. When buying a new car, if you get a loan, you will likely have to have full insurance coverage, which can be very expensive. However, by buying a used car, you may be able to save money on insurance in the long run and put the money toward other things.
Less Chance of Depreciation – Newer cars lose value quickly within the first year they are purchased, but used cars have little to no depreciation. Depreciation is an essential factor to consider because it determines your car’s long-term value. This can come into play later if you want to trade in, total, or resell the car.
Both new and used cars are great options. It just depends on what you need and where you set your budget. Contact us today if you’re interested in our extensive selection.
Allways Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, you might be wondering about the difference between lease and finance and which option might be best for you. The answer is that it depends on your unique set of circumstances and your end goal. To help you figure everything out, let’s start by defining the difference.
What Does Financing a Car Mean?
Financing a car means getting a loan from a financial institution to buy a car. So how do car loans work? Well, you’ll make payments to the lender over a set period. The costs will include the amount of money you borrowed, interest, and fees. In the end, you own the car.
What Does Leasing a Car Mean?
Leasing a car simply means that you are renting it. You are paying for the ability to use the vehicle rather than buying it. During your lease, you’ll pay the cost of the rent, as well as taxes and fees. When the lease is up, you’ll be required to return the vehicle in good condition.
Pros and Cons of Leasing
Like with almost anything, both options have pros and cons. But one is probably better suited for your needs than the other. The benefits of leasing a car can be:
- Lower monthly payments
- Lower upfront out-of-pocket cost
- Generally covered by a warranty
- No sales tax to worry about
- No concerns about depreciation
Of course, one of the most significant downsides to leasing a car is that you won’t own it even after all the money you’ve put into it. Lease contracts can also be complicated, which makes it hard to shop for the best deal. Here are some of the other cons of leasing to consider:
- Potentially higher insurance premiums
- Nickle and dimed for excessive wear and tear
- Fees and penalties for putting too many miles on the car
- Fees for terminating the lease early
- You’ll end up with no trade-in
Pros and Cons of Financing
The ultimate benefit to financing is that the car will be your property once the loan is paid in full. Some of the other benefits of financing are:
- No limits on your mileage
- Lower insurance costs
- The right to sell the car whenever you want
- Freedom to make modifications or customize the vehicle
The downside to financing could be a higher monthly payment, but this isn’t always the case. Some other cons to consider:
- More upfront costs (sales tax and down payment)
- Depreciation of the vehicle
- Maintenance costs once the warranty is up
Should I Lease or Finance?
The decision depends on what you need and what is most important to you. If you like driving something new every few years, don’t need to go on long-haul road trips a lot, or don’t have a lot of money upfront, leasing might be the right option. Some leases also allow you to have the opportunity to buy the car when the lease ends too.
If you prefer a long-term option, you will want to buy. Financing and owning a vehicle is also the right choice if you must put on many miles or want to make customizations to your car, truck, or SUV. You won’t be able to do those things with a leased vehicle. Leases limit the miles you are allowed to drive each year, and if you go over, there are fees you must agree to pay per mile. That can get pretty expensive if you aren’t careful.
The consensus is that it generally makes more financial sense to go for ownership rather than a rental. But the choice is yours. Depending on your wants, needs, and circumstances, one might be a better path than the other.
If you need help concerning any aspect of the buying or financing process, contact us today. We’re happy to help you by email, phone, or in person.
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