Are you planning on buying a car? If you are it requires a lot of consideration and research as it is a big investment to make. Along with purchasing a house it can even be considered one of the most important purchases of your life. Owning a car is a huge financial step to take as it also requires other expenses like maintenance and proper servicing from time to time. Before you decide on which car to buy, and have calculated the expenses which will be added to your monthly budget, here are some tips to guide you through the process and hopefully make things a bit easier to understand.
First of all you need to decide on whether to buy a brand new car or go for the cheaper option of a used car. You will also have to carry out a thorough research on the various options available to you which will make your task easier by providing you with the data you need to compare the various options and thus help you to make the right choice that will suite your requirements. A final decision though will rest largely on the financial aspect of things.
Buying a used car is a very good option as it saves money and can easily fit into your budgetary needs or requirements. But buying a used car requires you to be careful and consumer savvy. There are different options available when it comes to buying a used car and you can purchase from a private individual or a certified dealership. Remember that when you opt for a private individual you will need to be very careful and carry out a lot of research into the vehicle involved.
When you will go out to buy a used car, the market is so big that you could easily become confused with all the different options that are available. Prepare yourself for the basics and try and have a general idea of what you are looking for and what you expect from it. Once you step into the market with a clear idea of what you want and how to look for it, the task of searching for the right car becomes easier. The best way is to keep your search narrow and be very clear when it comes to your budget. Keeping these two things in mind can make buying a used car a piece of cake.
When you decide in the make and model of car you want, try and avoid the dealerships and instead check out the local classifieds to look for a private seller. You always tend to get a better deal through a private sale than at the dealerships. The downside to doing it this way though is that very often you do not receive a warranty and should anything go wrong with the vehicle after you have purchased it, you wouldn’t be within your rights to ask for a refund or ask for the car to be repaired.
Friday 27 June 2008
Sunday 22 June 2008
How Effective Are Car Alarm Systems?
When it comes to car security devices, the alarm system must be the cheapest and the easiest one to install on any vehicle. The purpose of this system is quite simple – it is programmed to go off and produce a high-pitched sound every time somebody tries to open the car, or even go near it for that matter, without turning the alarm off first. So if the alarm is switched on and you tried to open it, the alarm would go off. This is designed to discourage thieves to go near your car and steal it. However, how effective these devices really are? And do they really work as designed?
When car alarm systems are first released in the market, a lot of car owners begin installing them in their vehicles. But as time goes by, people are starting to hate them. For one thing, these devices disrupt the peace and quiet of a residential community big time.
Because almost everybody has car alarms in their vehicles, noise complaints are being filed left and right. Most people who will go in a vacation tend to leave the alarm of their cars on. And so whenever a cat or a dog goes near it, the sound would go off and they are two hundred miles away to turn it off. That’s only one instance wherein car alarms can be such an inconvenience.
On an estimate, false alarms occur 95% of the time. This means that the chance that you’ll catch a criminal with the system is only 5%. That’s a small percentage, compared to the inconvenience of 125 decibels worth of high pitched siren ringing in your ears. These alarms are so loud you can hear the sound outside your window. Just imagine car alarms waking you up in the middle of the night for nothing.
Now if 95% of car alarms are false alarms, why should anybody be concerned with it whenever they go off? Surely, a passing motorist would shrug off the sound thinking that the alarm isn’t what it really means. On a recent survey conducted, only 1% of all people who hear alarms going off actually call the police. An astounding 99% percent ignores them. With this fact, how can you be sure that car alarms still work?
So if you are considering a security system for your car, be sure to look for other options rather than a car alarm system. Car alarm systems cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000. You are going to save so much if you opt for a more effective system than this one.
But of course, if this is the only one that you can afford at the moment, you have to be sure that you send your car to a trustworthy shop to have the system installed. Some unscrupulous individuals can do a minor change in the system that would create a backdoor to it and leave your car vulnerable. You think that your car is secured. But all along, you have just sent your car to the thief without your knowledge.
When car alarm systems are first released in the market, a lot of car owners begin installing them in their vehicles. But as time goes by, people are starting to hate them. For one thing, these devices disrupt the peace and quiet of a residential community big time.
Because almost everybody has car alarms in their vehicles, noise complaints are being filed left and right. Most people who will go in a vacation tend to leave the alarm of their cars on. And so whenever a cat or a dog goes near it, the sound would go off and they are two hundred miles away to turn it off. That’s only one instance wherein car alarms can be such an inconvenience.
On an estimate, false alarms occur 95% of the time. This means that the chance that you’ll catch a criminal with the system is only 5%. That’s a small percentage, compared to the inconvenience of 125 decibels worth of high pitched siren ringing in your ears. These alarms are so loud you can hear the sound outside your window. Just imagine car alarms waking you up in the middle of the night for nothing.
Now if 95% of car alarms are false alarms, why should anybody be concerned with it whenever they go off? Surely, a passing motorist would shrug off the sound thinking that the alarm isn’t what it really means. On a recent survey conducted, only 1% of all people who hear alarms going off actually call the police. An astounding 99% percent ignores them. With this fact, how can you be sure that car alarms still work?
So if you are considering a security system for your car, be sure to look for other options rather than a car alarm system. Car alarm systems cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000. You are going to save so much if you opt for a more effective system than this one.
But of course, if this is the only one that you can afford at the moment, you have to be sure that you send your car to a trustworthy shop to have the system installed. Some unscrupulous individuals can do a minor change in the system that would create a backdoor to it and leave your car vulnerable. You think that your car is secured. But all along, you have just sent your car to the thief without your knowledge.
Tuesday 17 June 2008
Top 10 Ways to Save Money on Gas
It’s no surprise to hear gas prices have gone through the roof lately, peaking at over $4 a gallon in many cases. It seems every American would give almost anything to reduce these prices, but can’t afford to give up their habit of driving. What are you to do when your wallet can’t support gas prices anymore? Don’t jump right to riding your bike everywhere, but instead try a few of these tips to help lower what you’re paying at the pump.
1. Get to work a different way
People spend most of their gas money traveling to and from work daily. Try assessing whether or not you really need to drive. You may try riding your bike or walking if your work in close by. If not, take a train or bus as the fares will probably cost less than driving to work yourself. Besides these alternatives there is always the tried and true tactic of carpooling to reduce how much you spend daily on gas.
2. Consolidate trips
If you know you need to go to the grocery store, vet and cleaners this week do all three trips in one. By doing this you will cut down on the amount of small trips you make throughout the week, thus saving yourself some gas.
3. Park it and walk
If all of your errands are located in one area, park your car and walk to each different store. If there is no need for you to drive, why waste the gas? Walking is also better for your health so you win all around.
4. Stop looking and park it
When parking, go with the first spot you see in stead of looking around for a “better spot”. Driving around the parking lot will just waste gas. And like I said, a little walking won’t hurt you.
5. Join the club
Save money on gas by joining loyalty clubs at gas stations or grocery stores with gas station. Grocery stores usually offer you discounts at their gas stations with your food purchases. Also, check online to find out the cheapest gas prices in your area. Simply do a search for “lowest gas prices” and you’ll encounter sites that can give you information about the price of gas at different stations in your area.
6. Fill up when you’re empty - and not before
Some people trick themselves to think they are saving money by only buying a half or fourth tank of gas. However, these little amounts will add up to the same as a full tank eventually and waste you gas by driving to the station each time. Wait until your tank is empty before filling up and fill it up all the way.
7. Get frequent tune-ups
Make sure you car is always operating at its best as this is when it uses gas most efficiently. Get regular tune-ups and oil changes as well as check the pressure in your tires. Maintaining your car will improve your gas mileage as well as increase the life of your car.
8. Do you REALLY need a Hummer?
If you drive an SUV, Hummer or other gas guzzling car, reevaluate if you really need it. Here’s a hint-if you live in the suburbs and work at an office you probably don’t. Look into getting a hybrid or a smaller car. Although the upfront cost may seem large, in the long run you will use less gas and the savings add up.
9. Stay consistent
When driving on the highway, try to keep a constant speed. Acceleration uses gas, so put it on cruise control to save up a little. Also, try and pick routes that require less stopping as the acceleration after the stop will use up gas as well. Try country roads where you can leave your windows open and turn off the A/C, adding to your decrease of gas usage.
10. Lighten your load
Remove unnecessary items from your car as the extra weight can reduce your gas mileage. Take a look in your trunk and decide if you really need to keep your golf clubs on hand 24/7.
1. Get to work a different way
People spend most of their gas money traveling to and from work daily. Try assessing whether or not you really need to drive. You may try riding your bike or walking if your work in close by. If not, take a train or bus as the fares will probably cost less than driving to work yourself. Besides these alternatives there is always the tried and true tactic of carpooling to reduce how much you spend daily on gas.
2. Consolidate trips
If you know you need to go to the grocery store, vet and cleaners this week do all three trips in one. By doing this you will cut down on the amount of small trips you make throughout the week, thus saving yourself some gas.
3. Park it and walk
If all of your errands are located in one area, park your car and walk to each different store. If there is no need for you to drive, why waste the gas? Walking is also better for your health so you win all around.
4. Stop looking and park it
When parking, go with the first spot you see in stead of looking around for a “better spot”. Driving around the parking lot will just waste gas. And like I said, a little walking won’t hurt you.
5. Join the club
Save money on gas by joining loyalty clubs at gas stations or grocery stores with gas station. Grocery stores usually offer you discounts at their gas stations with your food purchases. Also, check online to find out the cheapest gas prices in your area. Simply do a search for “lowest gas prices” and you’ll encounter sites that can give you information about the price of gas at different stations in your area.
6. Fill up when you’re empty - and not before
Some people trick themselves to think they are saving money by only buying a half or fourth tank of gas. However, these little amounts will add up to the same as a full tank eventually and waste you gas by driving to the station each time. Wait until your tank is empty before filling up and fill it up all the way.
7. Get frequent tune-ups
Make sure you car is always operating at its best as this is when it uses gas most efficiently. Get regular tune-ups and oil changes as well as check the pressure in your tires. Maintaining your car will improve your gas mileage as well as increase the life of your car.
8. Do you REALLY need a Hummer?
If you drive an SUV, Hummer or other gas guzzling car, reevaluate if you really need it. Here’s a hint-if you live in the suburbs and work at an office you probably don’t. Look into getting a hybrid or a smaller car. Although the upfront cost may seem large, in the long run you will use less gas and the savings add up.
9. Stay consistent
When driving on the highway, try to keep a constant speed. Acceleration uses gas, so put it on cruise control to save up a little. Also, try and pick routes that require less stopping as the acceleration after the stop will use up gas as well. Try country roads where you can leave your windows open and turn off the A/C, adding to your decrease of gas usage.
10. Lighten your load
Remove unnecessary items from your car as the extra weight can reduce your gas mileage. Take a look in your trunk and decide if you really need to keep your golf clubs on hand 24/7.
Tuesday 10 June 2008
High Gas + New Loan = Bad Idea?
by Valerie Menard
Selling a large vehicle to save money on fuel may be tempting, but there is more to consider than just the price of fuel. The cost of the smaller car could outweigh the savings.
Desperate times require desperate measures. The unruly petroleum market continues to push consumers past their comfort zones and into more fuel-efficient vehicles, regardless of lifestyle or need.
While new truck and SUV buyers continue to disappear, current owners are also considering the ultimate sacrifice-–trading in their truck or SUV for a smaller, more fuel efficient vehicle. The immediate relief at the pump may be tempting, but the long-term cost of a new loan may cost more than you would save on fuel.
According to Kelly Blue Book (KBB), which compiles new and used vehicle information, depreciation rates among trucks and SUVs will garner consumers a weaker trade-in value on any new car purchase. The depreciation rate among large SUVs and trucks has dropped to eight percent. While that rate is common over a 12 to 18 month period, the depreciation was achieved in only six months.
There is a bright side, however. KBB anticipates that depreciation will slow and eventually turn around as winter approaches and advises truck and SUV owners to hold off on a vehicle purchase, if possible, until then.
"While it might be tempting to trade-in your big SUV after spending $100 to fill its gas tank, it is important you take everything into consideration before you decide to change vehicles or you may end up spending thousands of dollars to save hundreds," advises Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB and kbb.com.
"For owners who owe more than the vehicle's worth, selling would not be the best economic move. If you owe $20,000 but the vehicle is now appraised at $15,000, you stand to lose thousands."
Before considering any automotive purchase, it's important to do the research. In the case of a trade-in, it's also important to do the math. For example, with gas prices at $4 per gallon, Ford Expedition owners will pay $112 to fill-up the SUV's 28-gallon tank. With an EPA estimated city fuel economy rating of 12 miles per gallon, the Expedition will get 336 miles on one tank. To trade in the Expedition for the Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, would seemingly net the buyer a gasoline bounty. The cost to fill-up the Escape's 15-gallon tank would be $60 and with a fuel economy of 34 mpg in the city, the hybrid could travel 510 miles on one tank, theoretically. While you may get twice as far on half as much gas, the loss of money in the trade may still not justify the dollars saved at the pump.
For owners who have paid off their vehicle, getting back into debt on a new vehicle may not be cost effective either, even if it means more dollars saved at the pump. Truck and SUV owners who purchased these vehicles because of their utility, seating, hauling, and cargo capacity will also lose these assets when trading in for a smaller vehicle.
Still, the pain at the pump and the gain of cash in hand may be enough incentive to switch. Manufacturers vastly underestimated the appeal to consumers of hybrids, regardless of reports at the time that the premium on hybrids would take years to recoup. For consumers who want to help the environment as well as save gas, newer, lower emission vehicles might be enough to tip the scales.
Bottom line: There's a lot to consider when downsizing vehicles. The most important first step is don't panic. Next, consider costs carefully and if paying more now to lighten gasoline dependence down the road makes sense, switch ahead.
Selling a large vehicle to save money on fuel may be tempting, but there is more to consider than just the price of fuel. The cost of the smaller car could outweigh the savings.
Desperate times require desperate measures. The unruly petroleum market continues to push consumers past their comfort zones and into more fuel-efficient vehicles, regardless of lifestyle or need.
While new truck and SUV buyers continue to disappear, current owners are also considering the ultimate sacrifice-–trading in their truck or SUV for a smaller, more fuel efficient vehicle. The immediate relief at the pump may be tempting, but the long-term cost of a new loan may cost more than you would save on fuel.
According to Kelly Blue Book (KBB), which compiles new and used vehicle information, depreciation rates among trucks and SUVs will garner consumers a weaker trade-in value on any new car purchase. The depreciation rate among large SUVs and trucks has dropped to eight percent. While that rate is common over a 12 to 18 month period, the depreciation was achieved in only six months.
There is a bright side, however. KBB anticipates that depreciation will slow and eventually turn around as winter approaches and advises truck and SUV owners to hold off on a vehicle purchase, if possible, until then.
"While it might be tempting to trade-in your big SUV after spending $100 to fill its gas tank, it is important you take everything into consideration before you decide to change vehicles or you may end up spending thousands of dollars to save hundreds," advises Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for KBB and kbb.com.
"For owners who owe more than the vehicle's worth, selling would not be the best economic move. If you owe $20,000 but the vehicle is now appraised at $15,000, you stand to lose thousands."
Before considering any automotive purchase, it's important to do the research. In the case of a trade-in, it's also important to do the math. For example, with gas prices at $4 per gallon, Ford Expedition owners will pay $112 to fill-up the SUV's 28-gallon tank. With an EPA estimated city fuel economy rating of 12 miles per gallon, the Expedition will get 336 miles on one tank. To trade in the Expedition for the Ford Escape Hybrid, for example, would seemingly net the buyer a gasoline bounty. The cost to fill-up the Escape's 15-gallon tank would be $60 and with a fuel economy of 34 mpg in the city, the hybrid could travel 510 miles on one tank, theoretically. While you may get twice as far on half as much gas, the loss of money in the trade may still not justify the dollars saved at the pump.
For owners who have paid off their vehicle, getting back into debt on a new vehicle may not be cost effective either, even if it means more dollars saved at the pump. Truck and SUV owners who purchased these vehicles because of their utility, seating, hauling, and cargo capacity will also lose these assets when trading in for a smaller vehicle.
Still, the pain at the pump and the gain of cash in hand may be enough incentive to switch. Manufacturers vastly underestimated the appeal to consumers of hybrids, regardless of reports at the time that the premium on hybrids would take years to recoup. For consumers who want to help the environment as well as save gas, newer, lower emission vehicles might be enough to tip the scales.
Bottom line: There's a lot to consider when downsizing vehicles. The most important first step is don't panic. Next, consider costs carefully and if paying more now to lighten gasoline dependence down the road makes sense, switch ahead.
Monday 9 June 2008
Toyota Adds Urban Runner Package To 4Runner Sport Edition
Chicago, IL -The 2008 Toyota 4Runner midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) with an all-new Sport Edition Urban Runner Package will make its debut at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Adding a new dimension in style, value, and upscale luxury to the capable SUV, the Urban Runner Package delivers an extraordinary value with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,760 over the Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition 4WD V6's base price of $32,600.
The 4Runner Urban Runner will begin arriving at dealerships in early February. Initially, the Urban Runner Package will only be available in the Sport Edition 4WD V6 configuration. In April 2008, a 2WD version will be available.
Standard exterior features include 18-inch six-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, unique rear spoiler, color-keyed grille, Urban Runner badging, XREAS Sport Enhanced Suspension badging, chrome exhaust tip, and black-painted tubular side steps and tubular roof rack with crossbars. The 4Runner Urban Runner is available in only three exterior colors, Black, Titanium Metallic and, new to 4Runner, Blizzard Pearl.
Inside, the Urban Runner features a new audio system with an integrated portable Tom Tom® personal navigation device, a Toyota first. With a paid subscription for additional services through Tom Tom®, the device can keep users informed with real-time traffic and weather updates. An optional Tom Tom® power kit and mounting device makes it easy to transfer the navigation unit to other vehicles.
Additional standard interior enhancements include an AM/FM/CD with six speakers and WMA and MP3 compatibility, Bluetooth®, stone Alcantara® fabric seat inserts and dark charcoal bolsters with eight-way power driver seat and four-way power passenger seats, leather-trimmed shift knob, perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, chrome door handles, and black wood-grain-style interior trim.
Optional equipment includes a double deck cargo system with net, HomeLink® universal transceiver, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and a 115-volt AC power outlet.
Wednesday 4 June 2008
Increasing Your Vehicle Miles Per Gallon With Water
By: Arthur Maxwell
With gas prices rising in the backdrop of a receding US economy, most motorists are trying to increase their vehicle miles per gallon of gas. This has become especially important as inflation hits an all time high in the US. One of the best ways to increase your vehicle miles per gallon, is by converting your car to partially run on water.
The technology used to partially run a vehicle on water relies on HHO (2 parts hydrogen and 1 part oxygen) technology. This technology is based on an old patent. Modern day HHO technology leverages upon a concept called Brown’s Gas to partially power your vehicle.
HHO guides are extremely popular. HHO conversion guides are some of the best selling e-books on the internet. This is because HHO conversions can be done easily. The quality of HHO guides vary greatly. Some HHO guides are more detailed and they may contain extraneous information that is designed to satiate the most curious of consumers. Others are more to the point, and they’re written without any additional bells and whistles. The writing style of the guides can also vary greatly. Some guides are written for laymen, whereas other guides are written for experienced car modifiers.
Many motorists have already purchased these guides. The efficacy of the conversions can differ and experiences may vary greatly. However, most consumers do notice an increase in their vehicle’s mileage. Some consumers even claim that their conversions have allowed them to double their gas mileage. Given the varying results, it would be ideal to ascertain the best guide for you. Information pertaining to the various guides can be found online. Some websites even provide comparisons and reviews of these guides. You may want to refer to these websites before making a purchase.
Once you have purchased your guide, you may begin your conversion. Before doing so, make sure you read the instructions carefully. When in doubt, you should e-mail the writer for further advice before you proceed. Well-written conversion guides usually include some form of contact information for further assistance.
The recommended parts for conversion can vary from guide to guide. However, the conversion parts generally cost around $150 in its entirety. If you do not want to perform the conversion yourself, you can try approaching a mechanic for assistance. For a fee, they may be willing to perform the conversion for you.
There are various reasons why motorists should adopt energy alternatives when powering their vehicles. The world is facing a global environmental dilemma that needs to be addressed immediately. The US is the largest contributor of carbon emissions in the world. It is also the largest consumer of oil in the world.
Even though there are various alternative energy vehicles available on the market, these options have various drawbacks. Electric cars are still a novelty and charging electric cars can be inconvenient.
Hydrogen powered vehicles are an excellent alternative to electric cars. However, hydrogen fuel cells are still expensive and they are relatively fragile. It can also be prohibitively expensive to switch to a hydrogen or electric powered car. HHO conversion kits are the most viable and practical solutions available to motorists at the moment. For a low conversion cost, it can increase your vehicle miles per gallon. You should give HHO technology due consideration the next time you feel the need to reduce your gas bills.
With gas prices rising in the backdrop of a receding US economy, most motorists are trying to increase their vehicle miles per gallon of gas. This has become especially important as inflation hits an all time high in the US. One of the best ways to increase your vehicle miles per gallon, is by converting your car to partially run on water.
The technology used to partially run a vehicle on water relies on HHO (2 parts hydrogen and 1 part oxygen) technology. This technology is based on an old patent. Modern day HHO technology leverages upon a concept called Brown’s Gas to partially power your vehicle.
HHO guides are extremely popular. HHO conversion guides are some of the best selling e-books on the internet. This is because HHO conversions can be done easily. The quality of HHO guides vary greatly. Some HHO guides are more detailed and they may contain extraneous information that is designed to satiate the most curious of consumers. Others are more to the point, and they’re written without any additional bells and whistles. The writing style of the guides can also vary greatly. Some guides are written for laymen, whereas other guides are written for experienced car modifiers.
Many motorists have already purchased these guides. The efficacy of the conversions can differ and experiences may vary greatly. However, most consumers do notice an increase in their vehicle’s mileage. Some consumers even claim that their conversions have allowed them to double their gas mileage. Given the varying results, it would be ideal to ascertain the best guide for you. Information pertaining to the various guides can be found online. Some websites even provide comparisons and reviews of these guides. You may want to refer to these websites before making a purchase.
Once you have purchased your guide, you may begin your conversion. Before doing so, make sure you read the instructions carefully. When in doubt, you should e-mail the writer for further advice before you proceed. Well-written conversion guides usually include some form of contact information for further assistance.
The recommended parts for conversion can vary from guide to guide. However, the conversion parts generally cost around $150 in its entirety. If you do not want to perform the conversion yourself, you can try approaching a mechanic for assistance. For a fee, they may be willing to perform the conversion for you.
There are various reasons why motorists should adopt energy alternatives when powering their vehicles. The world is facing a global environmental dilemma that needs to be addressed immediately. The US is the largest contributor of carbon emissions in the world. It is also the largest consumer of oil in the world.
Even though there are various alternative energy vehicles available on the market, these options have various drawbacks. Electric cars are still a novelty and charging electric cars can be inconvenient.
Hydrogen powered vehicles are an excellent alternative to electric cars. However, hydrogen fuel cells are still expensive and they are relatively fragile. It can also be prohibitively expensive to switch to a hydrogen or electric powered car. HHO conversion kits are the most viable and practical solutions available to motorists at the moment. For a low conversion cost, it can increase your vehicle miles per gallon. You should give HHO technology due consideration the next time you feel the need to reduce your gas bills.
Tuesday 3 June 2008
Spotted : Toyota Landcruiser
Spotted this Limited Edition VX Landcruiser, which had come for a change of tires. The car has immense presence, unlike the Prado which looks very chiseled down. Will be posting more about the Prado and the New Land Cruiser later on. Also this looks alot like the Lexus LX470, apparently Bollywoods favourite car.
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