Interest rates for auto loans are really low right now. I’ve seen them as low as 3.99% in the past few months. Even if your credit score isn’t high enough to get the best rate, you may still be able to refinance your vehicle loan to lengthen or change its terms. By extending your repayment term for another one or two (or more) years, you can significantly decrease your monthly payment.

Much like when you refinance a home mortgage, auto refinancing pays off your existing vehicle loan. But it’s a much faster, simpler process. Your new lender pays off your old loan and the title to your vehicle is transferred to your new lender, who will retain it until your total financial obligation has been satisfied. Then the title will be transferred to you, and you’ll officially own your vehicle.

To get started, just do a web search for auto loans. You can often get a decision in just a few minutes when you apply for auto refinancing online.

Hopefully, you’ll discover a great opportunity that helps you save money in the short and long run. Whatever your motivation may be, we can all benefit from unlocking extra cash. It makes good fiscal sense (and common sense) to find out if and how we can maximize our finances. Refinancing my auto loan made sense for me. Maybe it will for you as well.

There are of course some pitfalls when buying any used vehicle, but we want to take a look at specific problems you might run into when buying a used SUV.

Follow these tips to track down an SUV that will not only match your price but suit your family as well:

1. Search for the right brand.

It’s no secret that certain SUVs are designed for longevity while others’ strong points are classy appointments or high-tech features. In an SUV, you’ll want enough space to fit your family, 4-wheel drive, stylish looks and interior comfort. This boils down to versatility, light off-road capability (towing is a nice addition) and affordability, too. The Ford Escape and larger Ford Expedition, for example, neatly fit these categories.

Really think about what you want in an SUV and research each brand to find the best qualities you’re looking for.

2. Pick the right generation.

When checking used SUV listings, you’ll see vehicles from a wide range of model years. The first generation Ford Escape was released in 2001 and redesigned in 2008, with an upgraded 171-horsepower four cylinder V6, new transmission and new-look cabin adopted in the second-gen to conform with other Ford ranges. Rather than only checking mileage, maintenance and costs, in other words, consider when the vehicle was released and with the benefit of hindsight, consider how it fared.

One generation up or down can change the dynamics of the vehicle drastically, so double check gas mileage, reliability and engine sizes.

If you’re looking for a fuel efficient vehicle buying one year newer or older might make a huge difference.

3. Get down to the nitty gritty.

Do your due diligence once you’ve settled on the SUV that meets your requirements. Request the vehicle’s service history and check its reliability record among auto reviewers. Ask the folks over at Toyota of Fort Worth about more of this information. Before you part with your cash, make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for.

4. Get your vehicle checked out.

It’s always a good idea to get a used vehicle checked out by a licensed mechanic. They can give you an idea of what you will need to fix in the future, what is wrong with the vehicle now, and what possible changes will need to be made to keep your vehicle road worthy. You’d be surprised at just how many times there is a small “deal breaker” problem with a vehicle that you wouldn’t have noticed without a mechanic taking a look.

Had an experience with purchasing a used SUV? Let us know in the comments below.

The key to getting the best value is to avoid money-wasting mistakes. Many of these mistakes are easy to avoid and are surprisingly common.

Here are the seven most common blunders that used-car shoppers make:

1. Failing to Check the Model’s Reliability Record
   One advantage to buying a used car is that there has been enough time for consumer satisfaction surveys and repair records to have come in, unlike a brand-new, unproven model. Research the model’s ratings from Consumer Reports or another evaluation service. Above all, avoid the temptation to make an emotional decision because you see a cute car on the lot or a low price.
2. Ignoring the Car’s Maintenance History
   Car buyers previously had to take the owner’s word on maintenance history, but computer searches now make it easy to find a vehicle’s track record. CarFax and AutoCheck can give you extensive records on whether a vehicle has been rebuilt, in an accident and who previously owned it. The services also list a car’s complete maintenance history, even if the car was serviced by multiple shops.
3. Not Getting the Vehicle Inspected by an Independent Mechanic
   Before spending $75 to $100 on a mechanic, do some basic checks yourself. Look for oil leaks under the car, and make sure that power windows and locks work. Check for body rust, especially if you’re searching among Used Cars in Ohio, Michigan or other northern states.
4. Settling for a High Price
   Used car prices are almost always negotiable. Be prepared to go somewhere else if the owner or dealer insists on a price beyond what you’re willing to pay.
5. Letting the Dealer Devalue Your Trade-In
   Always negotiate the price of the car you wish to purchase before indicating that you have a trade-in. If the dealer doesn’t offer you enough for your trade-in, shop around for a better price.
6. Bad Financing Rates
   Before going to a used-car lot, go to your bank or credit union to get pre-approved for a rate. When the dealer offers a rate, make a counter-offer just as you would the car price. A common trick is for car salesmen to ask, “How much can you spend per month on a car payment?” Don’t fall for this trap because the dealer will simply extend the length of the loan.
7. Negotiating Add-ons
   Many people will haggle over the car’s cost but pay full price for an add-on. First find out what the add-on would cost if you purchased it elsewhere and negotiate the price accordingly.

Both consumers and manufacturers are becoming more aware of the fact that millions of people around the world drive cars and these can have a massive impact on the environment. Consequently it’s a myth that eco-friendly cars are more expensive to purchase – both petrol and diesel green cars are available and they are not necessarily extortionate to buy. Once you have your car, price comparison sites such as  MoneySupermarket.com can help you to find the best deal on insurance.

For a greener car, some companies will offer up to 5% discount, a marked difference at a time when the price of car insurance just seems to keep going up. Hybrid engines are becoming more popular since they offer an electric engine running alongside the petrol or diesel motor. The conventional engine is not used at all times so this is more fuel efficient, saving you money in other ways as well. From Ford to Lexus, Volvo and Honda, you can find a range of hybrid models on the market to choose from today.

Electric motors are on the increase in general, with more manufacturers thinking about using them. Several car insurance companies are opting to plant trees or offering to help other environmental charities so that you can rest easy in the knowledge that you are doing your bit to help. This may mean that your insurance price remains the same but if you are serious about your green concerns this is a great way to prove it.

Remember to shop around for the insurance policy which suits you and think about ways in which you can reduce your impact for example car sharing with people in your office.

The new features include a cleaner easier to navigate design and a new search function available on the homepage.

We’re always interested in feedback so let us know what you think in the comments below.

Basically they are a high amp battery attached to two heavy duty jumper cables. The same principles apply as when you need to jump start your car, but the advantage is that you do not need another vehicle.

You can keep your jump starter plugged in at home to ensure that it stays fully charged, or in your trunk for emergencies.

Jump starters come in all shapes and sizes, but a general rule is the bigger your car, the bigger your jump starter needs to be. You don’t want to be stuck out in nasty weather with a jump starter that doesn’t have the juice to boost your car.

The power of each jump starter is measured in amps. This number will vary but for a V8 car you should be looking for at least 500 amps.

Some of the jump starters on the market come with built in lights. These are handy when you’re stuck with a dead battery at night and allow you to easily see what you’re doing as you hook up the power source (we also recommend always having a flashlight in your car).

We’ve come up with the Top 3 jump starters on the market for you to check out. By no means are these the ONLY good jump starters out there, but they are the most reliable and easy to use.

You can check out a full list of what Amazon.com has to offer here.

Clore Automotive JNC660 1700 Peak amp 12-Volt Jump Starter

• 1700 Peak Amps
• 425 Cranking Amps
• Clore PROFORMER battery technology
• 46″ #4 AWG welding cable leads
• Industrial-grade clamps
• Built-in charger
• Automatic charging
• Voltmeter provides charge status of onboard battery
• 12VDC outlet to power accessories
• 1 year limited warranty

Automatic charging eliminates the need to unplug or replug. Plus it ensures that you’ll never be stuck with an uncharged jump starter.

Cartips.com Rating: 9.8/10
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Jump-N-Carry JNC300XL 900 Peak Amp Ultraportable 12-Volt Jump Starter

• 900 Peak Amps
• 225 Cranking Amps
• 27″ #4 AWG welding cable leads
• Full-size clamps to penetrate battery corrosion
• LED battery status indicator
• High intensity work light
• Grip-Lock clamp storage
• DC outlet to power 12 Volt accessories
• Includes wall charger and Male-Male 12V extension cord
• 1 year limited warranty

A smaller profile and the built in light are a definite plus. Not as much juice as the JNC660 so it may not jump cars in more extreme situations. If you have a V8 vehicle I’d recommend the JNC660.

Cartips.com Rating: 9.6/10
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Schumacher XP400 Instant Portable Power Source

• On/Off switch activates the jump starting mode
• Built-in charger for automatic charging of internal battery
• Battery status LEDs tells when battery is charged or needs to be charged
• Sure-Grip clamps fit both top and side-mount batteries
• A maintenance-free, sealed lead acid battery allow for storage in any position

Low cost and small size make for a perfect jump starter for small cars. If you live in a cold location or have a medium to full sized car I would recommend something with more power. If you have a smaller 4 cylinder vehicle this is a perfect emergency solution.

Cartips.com Rating: 8.7/10
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Had an experience with a jump starter? Let us know in the comments below.

Each year, cars are replaced with newer and sleeker models than the year before. Safety features and technology become greater each year, and the used cars on the market today are not the clunky, ramblers that they once were, but very sophisticated with many great features – depending on the make and model of the vehicle, of course.

For car buyers that are interested in a great deal on an auto, they should definitely consider a used car, and there are some very good sources to purchase a used car, such as, the online auto auctions.

How to Find Online Auto Auctions

Obviously, online auto auctions are performed online, and where you will need to access to be involved in an auto auction. But, just how do you find these online auto auctions? It is quite simple, you simply browse your favorite search engine such as Yahoo or Google. The major search engines will have full listings of the online auto auctions. Simply type in your browser “online auto auctions” press click, and let the engines go to work. Within seconds you will have many results and sources to access.

A few of the online auto auctions that are reputable and are a means to get a good deal on the purchase of a used car are the following:

Car-Auction.com: Car-Auction.com is a site that is an online seized auto auction site that you will have plenty of opportunity to bid on vehicles for sale. The site has a large database of new and used makes and models of vehicles and allows you to search their database for what interests you. It provides its users with information regarding various auction sites that have what you are interested in purchasing. As with all auto auctions, the car buyer can expect to save 30 to 70 percent or more. This is a site that you will need to register in order to have full access to its advantages, but, if you are interested in purchasing an auto at a good price, it definitely is a good place to be.

Another online auto auction that you definitely will want to access is the police auto auctions that are conducted online. At the police auto auctions there are some very good bargains to be had, and some very nice vehicles, as they are vehicles that have been seized from criminals, and it isn’t unusual to find the best prices on used vehicles through these auctions.

Auction Fire is an online auction site that is no cost and offers their users links to websites where cars are up for auction. This is valuable for the bidder, as they are able to size up the vehicles in an easy way, prior to bidding on the vehicle. The site also has a message board that it uses for auction fraud alerts, which is helpful to the bidder, so that they are not scammed.

Another place that you might consider is asking your local police department if they have a website that they show the vehicles which they will be auctioning off. Many times, the local police departments have sites, which display the vehicles which will be up for auction.

eBay Motors is another auto auction site that auctions vehicles from both private parties and dealers. The advantage of eBay is that it allows their users to contact the seller and be able to ask any questions regarding the vehicle.

USA.gov/shopping/cars/cars.shtml is another site that has a variety of opportunity to purchase a vehicle at an online auction. The site lists cars from the government fleet, GSA auctions, state and local surplus property sales, and more. Once you land on the page, it will simply direct you to where you are interested in shopping for a vehicle. There are a number US Government Car Auctions happening all the time so check it out.

Tricks to Get a Good Deal at an Online Auto Auction

With the online auto auctions the bidder, most of the time, does not have the advantage of staring the vehicle or inspecting it under the hood. Therefore, it is essential to take as much precaution as possible. To know that you are purchasing a vehicle that is worth its value, then take all necessary steps, when possible, and the best advice is to get the vehicle identification number of the vehicle and perform a history check on the vehicle.

With a history check on the vehicle you will be able to find all the important information that pertains to the vehicle, such as, how many accidents it has been involved in, whether it has ever been salvaged, the number of owners the vehicle has had, past service repairs of the vehicle and so on. It is one of the most valuable documentations that used vehicle buyers can obtain and just may save you from purchasing a vehicle that is going to give you a world of trouble.

What Things to Look for Compared to Shopping in Person

Obviously, when you are shopping in person, you have the advantage of starting the engine and taking the vehicle for a test drive. You can fiddle with all the features of the vehicle and get a feel for the condition of the vehicle. When shopping online, you do not have this advantage, so it is absolutely necessary to get the VIN of the vehicle and to perform that history check on the vehicle. This is essential, and the one protectant you have that shows you the real worth of the vehicle.

Online auctions offer some great deals to be had. Take your time, approach the steps in bidding online properly, and make sure you purchase a vehicle that is worth its value.

Your state laws and your age determine whether you may be required to take driver’s education before you can get your license and get behind that wheel of a vehicle. States throughout the U.S. now have what is called a Graduated License Program which all teens under 18 must complete in order to get their license.

In this instance, a teen must complete formal driver’s education in order to fill the requirements set by the state. There are other reasons to take driver’s education courses, as well. To be a responsible driver on the road, you need to know the road rules and laws. Driver’s education will help you to understand the rules and laws of the road. Many states also lessen marks against your driver’s record when you complete a driver’s education course. Many seniors take driver’s education courses to get a reduction on their auto insurance. Whatever the reason, the driver’s education courses are offered online and through land facilities, and are a benefit to every driver on the road.

How Online Driver’s Education Works

Online driver’s education is completed over the Internet. Unlike taking the course through a school or other place that offers driver’s ed courses, your classroom structure is through the driver’s training course website. It is the responsibility of every driver on the road to know the road rules and laws, and an online driver’s education course is designed to teach the student the various road rules and laws, as well as, to educate them on the effects of alcohol and drugs, and learn how to drive defensively to prevent accidents.

Online driver’s ed sites will have a software based teaching program that is installed on a computer or a computer network. This allows the site to be able to teach, feature quizzes and tests and a final exam. The site may only offer their training in text, or they may have audio content, flash animation and video.

When you sign up for an online driver’s ed course then you will register with the site, which will include making some sort of payment for the course. The site will have various payment processors, such as, credit card, debit card and so on. Once you have registered you will then get a user name and password and you can begin your training.

Driver’s ed courses should be fully approved by the State Department of Public Safety. California online driver’s education courses are very popular and fully approved by the State Department.

Once you have enrolled in an online driver’s ed course, you will then have access to the training the site provides. Online driver’s ed will teach you the safety signs on the road, and the road rules and laws, as well as driving etiquette. For teens, taking a driver’s ed course is necessary in order to get their learner’s permit. Once they have taken the driver’s ed course, and passed, they can then take the written exam issued by the DMV in their state and get their learner’s permit.

Online driver’s ed training courses are state specific courses that detail the road rules and laws that are specific to each state.

Sites That Offer Online Driver’s Ed

DriversEd.com: Drivers Ed is another online driver’s ed training site that is a state approved program and provides everything that the student must know in order to get their learner’s permit or to familiarize themselves with the road rules and laws. The site also offers defensive driving training courses which are approved in many states to help clear traffic tickets.

DriversEdOnline.com: Drivers Ed Online is a site that offers self paced online driver education courses that combines text, interactive video and flash animation. This particular site happens to guarantee their course 100%. In other words, if you don’t pass the course, you are not obligated to pay. The site also offers driver training for all fifty states.

DMVDriversEducation.Org: DMV Drivers Education is an online site that offers DMV authorized courses that are available for all fifty states. The course is offered at your own pace course and there are no time limits to complete the course. DMV Drivers Education divides the course into units, with each unit containing a quiz. The quizzes and the final can be taken as many times as necessary in order to complete the course.

DriverEdToGo.com: Driver Ed To Go is another online driver’s ed training site that offers driver’s ed mad easy. The course is dmv approved and uses a Prep Wizard online exam software to help their students be prepared for the DMV written exam.

There are also sites, such as, 4DMV.com, that offer a wealth of state specific information on driving rules and laws in the state, as well as, driver’s ed training courses that are offered through their site.

Driver’s ed courses are a necessary part of driving and prepare the student for driving and the responsibilities associated with driving. Students will not only be taught the rules and laws of the raod, and the meaning of various traffic signs, they will also be taught how to drive defensively and to avoid potential accidents as well as the effects of alcohol and drugs on the body.

When a student completes and passes an online driver’s ed course, they will then be mailed a certificate showing that they have successfully completed and passed the course.

How Long Does a Driver’s Ed Course Take

Driver’s ed courses that are offered online are designed to be completed at the students pace. Students will have the course open to them, which will be taught in units, or chapters, and upon successfully completing each, they will move onto the next. There is no time limits of the course, and students can take anywhere from a day or more to complete the course.

Have you taken an online driver’s education course? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

The result? A very awesome infographic. Where do you fall in this mix? Let us know in the comments below.

Car Repair Costs Across the USA Infographic created by Convoy Auto Repair

As you begin the process of shopping for, and eventually purchasing, your own RV, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. That doesn’t mean making sure your RV gets television reception wherever you go. One of the most important aspects of shopping for an RV is to get a good idea of how many people will be tagging along on your family vacations. Will it just be you and the kids, or will your kids want to bring their friends? Will your parents give you the sad puppy face when you tell them that there isn’t enough room for them? Being unprepared could mean giving up all your RV’s accommodations to others and spending a cold, rainy night in a leaking pup tent outside.

While price is also a factor, a more important one is how comfortable you’ll feel driving and parking your new RV. Is it the size of a Greyhound bus? Slightly smaller? While there are plenty of RV dealers out there more than willing to help you get the hang of motoring your home-on-wheels around town, there are also plenty of sticky situations that you may need to be prepared for. It all boils down to one thing: If the thought of driving it scares you, then you should probably look at a smaller RV, or at least one that has a more truck-like cab and amenities, such as a back-up camera that allows you to clearly see where you’re going, even when you’re backing up.

Once you’ve got an idea for what size and style of RV you want to purchase, and before you begin the process of working out financing, it’s time to get an insurance quote so that you’ll see what it will cost you on top of your monthly payment. Once you’ve got all those aspects sewn up, it’s time to visit your local RV dealer and check out what’s available in your price and size range.