My Car Guide http://www.my-car-guide.com A Resource For Car Buyers, Sellers and Owners Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:24:00 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.4 en hourly 1 Save Money on Car Maintenance http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/ORusCbKqIhc/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/403/save-money-on-car-maintenance/#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 02:49:53 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=403 It goes without saying that car maintenance can become very expensive, especially if you don’t consider certain things. Therefore, follow these tips in order to make ends meet and enjoy driving your car.

Save money right at the beginning by shopping around for the best price on your car. Don’t walk into the first dealership and agree to something, take your time and realize you do not have to drive off the lot TODAY in a new car as much as you may want to. From the model, to the financing, to the terms of your warranty, shop, shop, shop.

Don’t forget to consider long term maintenance and insurance payments. Sure you want that sports car and you think you can get a great deal on it, but what about the insurance? Plus, how much is it going to cost to get oil changes, tires or other maintenance items on that fancy car? When you are searching for a car that is not only kind to your wallet when you are at the dealership, but also in the long run, do not forget to comparison shop the other incidentals that come with owning a car.

Control how fast you go through gas. Believe it or not, our driving habits dictate the amount of money we spend on gas. If you are a lead foot or are constantly pumping the accelerator, you are going to spend more in gas. Slow down or take it easy when the light switches from red to green and you will save hundreds of dollars every year.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/403/save-money-on-car-maintenance/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/403/save-money-on-car-maintenance/ How to Get a Used Car Bargain http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/eQIBv4vHQSE/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/396/how-to-get-a-used-car-bargain/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:23:59 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=396 It’s a fact; used car buying can be a risky endeavor, that is, IF you don’t know what you are getting into. As with any major purchase, it is necessary for you to do your homework before you commit to anything on a used car sale.

Depending on whether you are working with a used car dealership or with a private seller, it may be necessary for you to go out and secure your own financing for the purchase. Even if you are dealing with a dealership, it is always wise to go out and actually talk to a bank or credit union independently as sometimes you can get a better deal through a third party that is not related to the car dealership. Also, if you have financing before you start negotiations with a private seller or a dealership, you are in a strong position to get the best deal.

Next, use a search engine to locate the used car you are looking for. This search engine will allow you to search by price, make and model, model year, as well as many other parameters in order to help you find exactly what you are looking for. Also, make sure you do not set your heart on one car and have a backup plan or a second or third choice. Many times, dealerships do not update their used car inventory as much as they should and the information on sites like this and other competitors might be a little stale and the car might have been sold. Therefore, exercise your options and get a couple cars in mind.

Finally, before you buy from either a private seller or a dealership ask for an independent mechanic or automotive professional to inspect it. You always want to make sure you are getting the best product possible and that the car works the way it is supposed to.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/396/how-to-get-a-used-car-bargain/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/396/how-to-get-a-used-car-bargain/ How to Avoid Dealer Scams When Buying a New Car http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/F9zPCqQ7lMI/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/391/how-to-avoid-dealer-scams-when-buying-a-new-car/#comments Wed, 24 Feb 2010 23:16:56 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=391 It is a common rule that very few people actually enjoy spending time in a car dealership when buying a new car. It is easy to walk away feeling taken advantage of or feeling just a tad bit slimy for spending hours haggling and negotiating over the best price. However, there are ways to avoid dealer scams when you buy a new car.

First, before you walk into a showroom, know what your credit score is from all three credit reporting agencies. This will give you leverage if the dealership tries to tell you that you cannot qualify for certain loans.

Next, manage the entire car buying process from the new car price, to the financing, to what you are receiving for a trade-in. Do not just investigate one area without looking into the others as it is completely possible to win on the new car price, but get taken advantage of by the dealer on the trade-in value of your car.

Finally, and this is most important. Do not allow a dealer to say, “How much can you pay for this car each month?” Many times, the dealer can get creative with payment terms and financing with the hope that you will not read between the lines. Always answer that question with the statement of how much you can afford to pay for the TOTAL cost of the car.

At the end of the day, the dealership never wants you to walk out empty handed. However, if you are wise, you can beat them at their own game, and not only walk away with a brand new car, but also the best deal possible.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/391/how-to-avoid-dealer-scams-when-buying-a-new-car/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/391/how-to-avoid-dealer-scams-when-buying-a-new-car/ The Case For Buying A Used Car http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/oxd2fuCbO14/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/383/the-case-for-buying-a-used-car/#comments Thu, 18 Feb 2010 04:20:36 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=383 Your parents might have insisted on buying a brand new car every few years, but your budget and theirs is not exactly the same. It is time for you to replace the car you have and you’re just not sure what direction to go in. Mom and Dad got along fine with new cars, but used just fits your bank account better.

If this sounds like your situation, relax. There are some benefits that can go along with buying a used car instead of following in Mom and Dad’s footsteps. The points that build up a case for buying used include:

The lack of a depreciation hit – Brand new cars do not hold their value. In fact, you can take a huge hit in depreciation costs that end up putting you in an upside down situation in a loan. Used cars have already taken the hit. Their value on the car lot will generally be the same once you drive a purchase down the road.

The ease in paying them off – When you opt for used cars rather than new ones, you can generally position yourself better to pay off the buy faster. In some cases, you might even be able to get a great used car for money you have available. This can translate into no car payments for you, which is always better for the budget.

The information that is available today – Buying used was once a complete shot in the dark. Today, you can insist on getting car history reports that will clue you into any problems that might be associated with a vehicle. Certified used cars, too, offer a little more security than their counterparts of the past.

Warranties are available – It is possible to purchase repair warranties on used cars today. This means even if there is a problem with a purchase, you might not be stuck holding the bag.

Buying a new car every few years works for some, but there is merit to purchasing a used vehicle. If this option better fits your financing, go for it. Just take care to research a used buy closely and cover your basis in regard to purchase protections.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/383/the-case-for-buying-a-used-car/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/383/the-case-for-buying-a-used-car/ Is It Time To Replace Your Car? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/YoWVRDZKIiI/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/376/is-it-time-to-replace-your-car/#comments Fri, 12 Feb 2010 04:18:47 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=376 While some people love to buy a new car every few years, others prefer to hang on to what they have for dear life. After all, there is something to be said for driving a car, paying it off and keeping it on the road for as long as possible. Still, all good things must come to an end.

So, how can you tell if the end is near for your car? Consider these things closely:

The amount of mileage on the vehicle – If your car is getting up there in the mileage it might be time to start considering a replacement. While the cars of yesteryear could run forever, many of the models today are just not built to last.

The cost of required repairs – If your car has stopped running and the repairs will cost you more than a hefty down payment on a new or used vehicle; it might be time to consider replacement.

The frequency of repairs – If repairs are not technically costing you a lot at any given time, but the frequency of breakdowns is increasing it could be time to say goodbye. Older cars can nickel and dime their owners to death.

The work that has been done already – If you have a lot of money into your present car and have already replaced major systems; hanging on to it might be in order. Consider what has been done already and what might need to be replaced down the road before making the decision.

What your mechanic says – If you have a trusted mechanic, get an opinion. A good mechanic might give you frank advice on whether your car is truly a keeper or not.

Few people want to spend unnecessary money in this economy. Still, there are times when it is wiser to bid an old car adieu. Carefully consider your situation before putting a lot of money into repairs.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/376/is-it-time-to-replace-your-car/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/376/is-it-time-to-replace-your-car/ Tips For Conserving Your Clutch http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/gFR70zm0PGo/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/371/conserving-your-clutch/#comments Sat, 06 Feb 2010 02:58:25 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=371 While some motorists love the freedom automatic transmissions provide, others just prefer having a good old-fashion standard. Either choice is solid, but if you happen to have the latter, you probably need to keep an eye on the condition of your clutch. Treat it right and it will go the distance.

If you want to conserve your clutch and help it last as long as possible, consider doing these things when you are behind the wheel:

•Take care to avoid downshifting too much – Use the brakes to slow down rather than the clutch whenever possible. The simple fact is the brakes are meant to stop the car; not the clutch.
•Remove your foot from the clutch – In other words, do not ride your clutch. Once your car is in gear, take your foot off.
•Use neutral – Sitting at a stoplight is an opportunity for disaster with a clutch. Use neutral rather than holding the car in gear with the clutch depressed. Doing otherwise will wear the clutch out long before its time.
•Avoid slow-speed shakes – Take care to always use the proper gear when traveling at slow speed. If you are going about five miles an hour or under, stick with first. Otherwise shift up. It is all too common for people to shake in slow speeds because they are using the wrong gear. The shake is caused by the clutch, which can cause damage.

Conserving a clutch can save you down time with your car and lots of money from your budget. It is worth practicing good habits to ensure your clutch goes the distance.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/371/conserving-your-clutch/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/371/conserving-your-clutch/ Protect Your Vehicle From The Bite Of Winter http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/zWdLdpci9-A/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/366/the-bite-of-winter/#comments Sat, 23 Jan 2010 02:54:27 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=366 When wintertime really settles in, vehicles can take a beating if they are not properly prepared. If you live in an area where ice and snow are probable, it is smart to take precautions to protect your car or truck from damage.

To make sure you are fully winterized before it gets too bad out there consider doing these things:

•Going in for a tune up and oil change – Stay on top of routine maintenance to conserve your vehicle no matter the time of year. As the temperatures drop, this can become even more important. You will want to make sure you are filled up on antifreeze to avoid serious complications from colder weather.
•Using snow tires or chains – If you live where the ice and snow pile up, these can prove to be lifesavers.
•Preparing the car to avoid rust damage – It is very easy to tell a “Northern” car from a “Southern” car by the rust damage. To avoid this completely, make sure to keep your car waxed and sealed during the colder months. This can protect your ride from the damage roadway salt can dole out.
•Avoiding going out in really bad weather – If the weather has taken a turn for the worse and you do not really have to drive, stay home. Venturing out in heavy snowstorms is just not smart no matter how well prepared your vehicle happens to be.

Winter can take a serious toll on a vehicle. Prepare your ride correctly and you will thank yourself later.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/366/the-bite-of-winter/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/366/the-bite-of-winter/ Snow Tire Myths You Need To Know About http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/Q_Z8pQqe1Wk/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/363/snow-tire-myths/#comments Sat, 16 Jan 2010 02:51:40 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=363 Living in parts of the world that get a lot of snow can prove costly for vehicle upkeep. Not only can bad weather put a beating on how a vehicle looks, it can also require a full second set of tires. Investing in snow tires, however, can very much prove to be an investment in your safety.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of people who try to get away without a good set of tires in the winter. They do so because they fall for some of the myths that lead them to believe they really don’t need them.

So, what are some of the myths that might mislead motorists? Here are a few:

•All-season tires provide the same level of safety as snow tires – While this is the case in some areas, it does not apply to all. If you live where severe conditions are not uncommon, actual snow tires will provide you with better traction.
•Only two snow tires are necessary – Again, some people might be able to get away with this. However, mismatching of tires can lead to unnecessary wear and tear. It can also hamper traction in really bad conditions.
•Vehicles with traction control do not need snow tires – Traction control, all-wheel drive and anti-lock brakes are all great features that can increase your safety, but they do not replace the need for snow tires.

While it is unlikely you truly want to go out of your way to purchase snow tires, sometimes the buy just makes the most sense for safety. If you live in an area that is prone to heavy downfalls of snow, the investment can prove very worthwhile. Your safety is worth going the extra mile!

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/363/snow-tire-myths/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/363/snow-tire-myths/ Is Your Car Ready For Winter Emergencies? http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/YprYBk6Scw0/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/359/car-ready-winter-emergencies/#comments Sat, 09 Jan 2010 02:48:05 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=359 While it is always a good idea to have a vehicle prepared for emergencies, wintertime can present its own unique problems. If a car becomes stranded or is involved in an accident, weather conditions can make even minor vehicle issues serious. This makes it especially important to be ready for anything.

When you drive around in ice and snow on a regular basis, it is very wise to ensure these things are in place each time a vehicle is fired up:

•Standard emergency equipment – Always travel with tools to fix minor problems like flat tires and do keep a first aid kit on board. These things can come in handy when the need is least expected.
•Blankets – Get stranded in the middle of winter and having a few thermal blankets stowed in the truck can be the difference between life and death. It is just not always possible to run a heater constantly. Extra blankets can pay off.
•A charged cell phone – Even if you prefer not to carry a cell phone, having one charged and ready for emergency use is a good idea. It is even possible to purchase a cell with an emergency-only plan in some areas.
•Food and water – Try to keep nonperishable food items and some water stowed on board. Ideally, you will never need them. Still, trail mix or granola bars can come in handy if a car stalls out and the wait on the tow truck will be a few hours.
•Flares – Make sure to keep emergency flares on board no matter the season. In the winter when the nights are dark, they can really be vital.
Anytime you get behind the wheel, having emergency gear on board is a smart idea. During the winter months, however, the right gear can prove invaluable.

]]> http://www.my-car-guide.com/359/car-ready-winter-emergencies/feed/ 0 http://www.my-car-guide.com/359/car-ready-winter-emergencies/ Auto Dealers Get Social http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/MyCarGuide/~3/XoW0VxiAypM/ http://www.my-car-guide.com/356/auto-dealers-get-social/#comments Sun, 03 Jan 2010 02:41:11 +0000 Alice http://www.my-car-guide.com/?p=356 If you are in the market for a new car or you soon will be, there is a new way to keep up with sales on new and used vehicles. Many automotive dealerships across the country are taking their marketing campaigns into the social networking arena.

Whereas you may have once had to visit dealerships personally to see what was on the lot and in your price range, this is no longer the case. As more dealers specializing in both new and used cars get on line, the job of hunting for a good buy on a vehicle has become a lot easier.

To take full advantage of this marketing revolution, consider doing these things:

•Researching dealers in your area – Find some dealers located near you and check into their reputations. Once you find a few with solid reputations that you would consider buying from, check into their marketing campaigns. You will find many dealers, large and small, are now on line with web sites and social networking pages.
•Sign up for the services your dealers use – Whether they are on Facebook, Twitter or a different site, go ahead and make an account. Be sure to “friend” your dealer or “follow” them if on Twitter.
•Pay attention to updates – Many dealers are using their social networking pages to update friends and followers on new arrivals, sales or other promotions. To find the best deals, just keep up with the activity sent your way. You can receive updates by checking your own account or having updates sent to your e-mail or even cellular phone.
Social networking has presented a whole new way for auto dealers to market their wares. If you are in the market to buy, making a few “friends” can help you keep up with sales that might just net you the perfect car when you are ready to buy.

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