Archive for the ‘Car Tips’ Category
Posted on: April 3, 2012 | In Car Tips
Buying a used car today makes financial sense. Even cars that are just a year or two older are priced significantly lower than brand new vehicles. Older models that have been well-maintained may also be a great deal, and these can save you a considerable amount of money on your new car purchase as well.
While buying a used car is a great option to consider, first you will have to find a good vehicle to purchase. More and more people today are taking steps to purchase their new vehicle through online shopping. The internet offers many opportunities for car buyers to not just shop for cars but to shop for insurance online, too. Simply enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool above!
Deciding What to Buy
The first step in buying a a used car online is to decide what kind of vehicle you want to buy. When buying a used car, you have greater flexibility to consider a wider range of cars. This is because even those on a fixed budget may be able to afford a luxury vehicle if they look at older models with more miles on them. Deciding which car is best can be accomplished most easily by considering points such as:
- How many passengers do you need to seat comfortably in the car on a regular basis?
- Does your new vehicle need special features such as towing capabilities?
- Are there extra features that you would like to have, such as a sun roof, leather seats, or heated seats?
- What level of fuel efficiency should your new vehicle get?
- Are there brands you prefer, or brands you would like to avoid?
The Cost of Ownership
In addition to asking these questions when looking for a used car to purchase online, you also want to consider the overall cost of ownership. Fuel efficiency is a major consideration to factor into the cost of ownership, but it is not the only one. Consider that generally imported or foreign vehicles as well as older classics will have higher repair costs than newer or domestic models. A vehicle that is still under warranty will have lower repair costs initially. Also consider the cost of insurance. You can easily get rate quotes for a few of the top models that you are considering by using a rate quote comparison website online. These sites are easy to use, and they generally require you to enter in the make, model, and year of the vehicle along with your zip code and a few other details. Reviewing insurance costs before buying online is a step that can save you money on auto insurance throughout the time you own the vehicle.
Online Shopping
After you have completed these steps, you may have your choices narrowed down to a few different makes and models. It is a good idea to be open about the vehicle’s age. The age of the vehicle will factor into your financing options and insurance costs, so it should not be ignored.
However, considering vehicles within a certain window, such as from 2007 through 2009, may help you to explore a greater number of vehicles with your online search. There are numerous online search tools that allow you to perform a customized search query of vehicles based on your location, the vehicle type you are searching for, and your budget. Some allow you to choose between vehicles offered through a dealership and those sold directly by the owner.
Shop for Financing
Based on your own budget as well as the vehicles you are interested in purchasing, you may have a good idea about the amount of financing you need to purchase your vehicle. You can easily shop for a car loan while you are seated in front of the computer shopping online for vehicles. An online rate comparison website allows car buyers with a fast and easy way to shop for rates. While it may be tempting to apply for the lowest rate you find, also take a moment to consider the fees and terms of the loan.
Consider the loan that will be the most affordable to you over the life of the loan when fees and interest charges are all taken into account. In many cases, you can apply online. With your financial approval notification, you can then contact sellers and used car dealers for a test drive and prepare to buy a used car.
The Test Drive
Through an online search, you may find several models within a reasonable driving distance of your home that you are interested in. Starting with the vehicle you are most interested in, contact the seller to arrange a test drive. During the test drive, do a quick visual inspection of the vehicle to look for signs it has been well-maintained. You can check for:
- Even wear of tire tread
- A clean engine that appears to be free of fluid leaks
- The body for signs it is in excellent condition
While even an untrained eye can spot numerous issues with a vehicle, it is a good idea to have your own mechanic review the car before you make an offer to purchase it.
Insurance Quotes
You may have done some preliminary price shopping for insurance rates at the time you were determining the cost of ownership of various vehicle makes and models. However, immediately after you purchase your used car, you will then want to do a more thorough job comparing rate quotes and shopping for insurance. Again using a rate quote comparison site, you can more thoroughly compare rate quotes. When shopping for quotes, to get the best price on coverage consider:
- Your state’s minimum insurance requirements
- Raising the deductible to lower the premium
- Making use of discounts offered by different insurance companies
Shopping for a used vehicle online is a convenient way to shop. You can use the website to conveniently decide which model is best for you, to shop for the best vehicle that meets your needs, and even to compare rate quotes for financing and insurance with ease. Simply enter your ZIP code into the FREE tool below!
Posted on: April 1, 2012 | In Car Tips
There are many advantages to purchasing a used car in lieu of a brand new vehicle. A good used car is often just as reliable as a new car. Buying used means saving hundreds or thousands of dollars, without suffering the immediate loss in value that happens to new car buyers when they drive their new vehicle off the dealer’s lot. Used car buyers also save money on car insurance. Simply enter your ZIP code into the FREE car insurance comparison tool above to start saving now!
Before you make a decision, it is important that you understand how to shop for a used car. Understanding how to shop for a used car ensures that you make the best decision for your wallet and vehicle needs.
Determining Your Needs and Budget
Before you start shopping for a used car, determine what kind of car you need. Once you know what kind of vehicle you need, you can determine the car that fits in your budget. Like most major decisions, it is a good idea to come up with three prospective cars that appeal to your tastes. Once you’ve made a wish list, determine which car best fits your needs. Ask yourself the following questions:
- How often do you plan on driving the car? Is the car for daily commuting or occasional trips?
- Do you need the car for carpooling or transporting others? How many seats do you need? Is a 2-door or 4-door better for suited for your needs?
- Do you need additional storage space for hauling luggage or equipment? Is trunk space adequate, or should you choose a hatchback or station wagon with folding rear seats?
- Where are you planning on parking your vehicle? Do you have the space for a compact, mid-size or full-size vehicle?
Next you must determine if the car you want fits into your budget. If you have money saved, you may have enough to purchase a used car outright; otherwise you must get a loan from a bank or the dealer and make monthly payments. There are also other budgetary considerations. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What is your monthly gas budget? What kind of fuel efficiency do you need from a vehicle?
- Can you pay for repairs if your car should break down? Does the car you want require expensive parts?
- If you cannot buy the car outright, what kind of monthly payments can you afford? Can you afford to put money towards a down payment?
- Do you have a credit score that would allow you to get a loan? What type of interest rate will you be facing?
Research
Research is important to assess your budget against the type of car that you want to buy. It is important to note that there are three things that affect the value of a used car.
- The number of miles on the car
- The car’s condition
- The popularity of the car’s make and model
It is important to compare car brands and features during your research phase. Read what past consumers have said about the vehicle and its performance. Determine how long the vehicle you want tends to last. Determine if the type of car you want has any recalls in its past or major complaints from consumers.
Research is perhaps one of the most important phases of shopping for a used car. If you do your research and weigh your options, you will be more informed when you go to look at a used car with a private seller, or when you step onto the used car lot. Research keeps you from making financial mistakes or purchasing a lemon.
Visiting a Dealer or Shopping Online
There are many advantages and disadvantages to buying a used car from a private seller or going to a dealership. For some buyers, a dealership is a stressful, high-pressure, overwhelming situation. However, used car dealers present buyers with many different choices, allowing buyers to pick and choose their optimal used car. Dealers are also open to negotiations, where a private seller may not negotiate.
On the other hand, shopping through a private seller reduces the amount of pressure, but puts you on the spot. Often you have to decide on then and there if you want to purchase the vehicle. Conversely, when shopping through a private sellers, you can search multiple listings online and often find the exact car you want at the right price.
No matter which avenue you choose to shop, consider these two important factors before settling on a vehicle:
- Used car dealers offer customers a guarantee on some of their vehicles in the form of certified used cars. Certified used cars come are under manufacturer warranty, proving that they have passed inspection and are in top condition. Certified used cars often cost more than those without certification
- It is important to obtain the Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, before proceeding with a purchase from a private seller. The VIN number informs the consumer of any major accidents or salvage titles in the vehicle’s history. It also tells you if the seller has tampered with or attempted to roll back the odometer.
It is important to take your time and never appear too eager in front of the salesman or private seller. Inspect the vehicle for rust spots or interior damage and ask to test drive the car. Listen to the engine, especially when starting the car and test the brakes. If you do not know much about cars, ask someone with more knowledge to accompany you, to make sure you make the right decision and pick the best used car for your money.
To save money on car insurance, be sure to enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool below!
References:
Edmunds.com: 10 Steps to Buying a Used Car
http://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/10-steps-to-buying-a-used-car.html
Kiplinger.com: How to Shop for a Used Car
http://www.kiplinger.com/basics/archives/2003/02/buying3.html
Posted on: March 24, 2012 | In Car Tips
A used car can be a real bargain over the cost of a brand new one, but not all used cars are great buys. Car dealerships still try to get as much money out of their customers as possible. Many customers end up paying much more than they need to for their vehicles. It is possible to get an affordable used car, however. Buyers just have to use the right strategies.
To find the lowest price for auto insurance, just enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool above now!
Benefits of Buying Used Vehicles
New cars start depreciating heavily as soon as buyers drive them off the lot. At just one year old, the average car is a quarter to a third cheaper than it was brand new, no matter how much or how little the owner chooses to drive it.
There are other benefits, too. Used car owners pay much less in car insurance than new car owners. The allowable price range is wider at many dealerships, meaning that buyers can get better deals on used vehicles than on new ones, and used cars have never been more reliable.
Some used vehicles are even still operating under their factory warranties, which can be transferred to the new owner. That means that if anything is defective, it’s easy and inexpensive to get it repaired. Certified used cars don’t have the original warranty, but do come with special warranties of their own. This allows them to provide many of the benefits of new cars at a significant price reduction.
Getting the Best Deal
Buying an affordable used car does require some patience and care. Taking the first price that’s offered on the first car available is a sure way to end up with a poor bargain. Buyers can use a few special tactics to make sure that they’re getting the most affordable option.
Alternate Models
Many used car buyers know what they want before they start shopping, but they don’t realize that many popular car models have lower-priced siblings. Buyers who are interested in the Toyota Camry, for instance, may benefit from checking out Chevrolet Malibus, Nissan Altimas and Honda Accords.
All these vehicles are built for the same market and provide a similar set of general features with just a few variations. The slight differences between the vehicles mean that buyers can choose a slightly less common vehicle and a better chance of a bargain. Often called second-tier cars, these vehicles are just as reliable, but are just a little less popular.
Background Research
Knowing all about a car before making a decision allows smart buyers to get the best price, whether they’re purchasing from a dealer or a private individual. Many print publications and websites offer information about the appropriate price for a given vehicle in a particular condition. Buyers can’t always expect their used cars to sell at that price, but it gives them a good starting point.
Buyers who are worried about the condition of their used vehicle can trace its past using the VIN. This is especially helpful when dealing with a private seller or a suspicious dealer. VIN reports let prospective buyers know whether the car has ever been in a serious accident, declared as salvage or had other major problems. They can also uncover odometer rollback scams.
Financing Options
A car buyer’s financing method can actually affect the final price on a used car. For instance, if a buyer is able to pay entirely in cash, he or she can usually direct the negotiation much more effectively than a buyer who must borrow to purchase a car. Most people won’t be able to pay up front, but their financing choices can also affect negotiations.
Financing through the car dealership is appealing, since it allows the buyer to get all the paperwork done at once. It often comes with some disadvantages, however. Sometimes, dealers will even offer better rates for people with very good credit scores. Buyers can get the best rates on dealer financing by pre-arranging financing with a bank or other independent lender, though. Many dealers are willing to offer lower rates than the buyer’s pre-existing ones.
Independent financing is also a good choice for most people. It helps buyers keep the actual purchase negotiations simple and lets them look for competitive interest rates on their own schedule. Buyers do have to stick to the bank or other financer’s terms, however. It’s important to know what those are before choosing a specific used car.
Negotiation Tactics
It’s easy to be intimidated by a dealership, which makes it difficult to negotiate correctly. Potential buyers should remember that they have the right to walk out of any deal before the money has been handed over, no matter what. This is one of the most effective ways to get a good deal on a vehicle.
Of course, an affordable car isn’t as useful if it isn’t accompanied by an affordable auto insurance policy. Buyers should take the time to get quotes from a wide variety of insurance companies before signing any paperwork. This increases the chance of getting a good policy at a good price. The first option isn’t always the best, after all. Simply enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool below to find the best policy!
Posted on: March 16, 2012 | In Car Tips
With the economy in an extended state of recession, car owners are trying to extend the useful lives of their present automobiles as much as possible. In addition, those with access to used and reconditioned auto parts are looking for new ways in which to sell parts to car owners who want to save money on parts for their older cars. This has led buyers and sellers alike away from swap meets and garage sales and to the Internet as a means of dealing in used car parts.
Once you find the parts you need to get your used car running in peak condition, enter your ZIP code to get quotes and find the very best price on a new insurance policy that will protect you as you enjoy driving it for years to come.
Using the Internet
Choices for used auto parts sales online include major auction sites, fixed price general merchandise sale sites, and sites catering to auto enthusiasts in general or sites that specifically target owners of certain makes and models of cars. Consumers may find the best selection and prices for used auto parts on any of these online sites, depending upon what parts they need and in what condition they need them. You can also find wrecked car classifieds, which may have parts for sale that are still in good condition.
Auction Sites
Car enthusiasts, parts refurbishers and wholesale reconditioned parts dealers often establish presences on major auction sites in order to make themselves known to the buying public by using the auction sites to sell their stocks of particularly low-priced, high-demand or unusual parts. Since major auction sites offer assistance with customer satisfaction issues, purchasing used car parts from sellers who list parts on such sites presents less risk than other ways of obtaining similar parts.
Fixed-Price Sites
Fixed price general merchandise sales sites often attract sellers who have large quantities of used and refurbished car parts available on a regular basis. Here, too, consumers have the advantage of a site-wide consumer protection policy that forces the seller to refund money or exchange defective parts in order to avoid negative feedback or removal from the site.
Auto Enthusiast Sites
Some auto parts re-sellers who specialize in buying and restoring used parts advertise or post their contact information on auto enthusiast sites. Still others have their own sites or are the major sponsors of informational sites that they set up to boost their sales and make connections with potential repeat customers. As with all private businesses, consumer reviews, including Better Business Bureau ratings, should be checked before making large purchases from used parts dealers that advertise on unregulated and unmonitored auto enthusiast sites. While the sites themselves provide no buyer protection, consumers may be able to obtain recourse against unscrupulous sellers if they pay with credit or debit cards or payment services such as PayPal that offer buyer protection services.
Make and Model Specific Sites
Car owners who need used parts for particularly popular cars, or for niche cars such as antique cars or older sports cars can often find them by participating in discussions and posting their needs on forums or blog sites that specialize in the make or model that they own. Usually, the parts offered by participants on these sites are offered on a friendly, fan-to-fan, basis. In many cases, there is no real commercial motive on the part of the seller, who often just happens to have a particular part available and wants to help a fellow enthusiast by selling it at cost or even trading it for another part or related item. The drawback to these friendly transactions is that the part offered may be a truly used part that has not been refurbished in any way, and the buyer will then need to restore it to usable condition.
Car enthusiasts who enjoy rebuilding their cars are usually well aware of this need, and they are either able to perform the necessary work themselves or to find an expert who specializes in refurbishing parts. Others may not have the skill, the connections, or the time to refurbish a complex part; however, sellers who are enthusiasts may be able to arrange to have a part restored at the buyer’s cost before actually shipping the part.
Finding Used Car Parts
Of course, used auto parts are still available at swap meets and even from junkyards, but the Internet makes it possible to find a specific part quickly and easily, especially if the part is not usually available at regular retail locations or from car service centers.
Shopping for car insurance online by entering your ZIP code to get comparison quotes will save you money on your car insurance just as shopping for parts online will get you the best deals for the used parts you need to keep your car running.
Posted on: March 8, 2012 | In Car Tips
Drivers in the market for a new or used car do not normally look at the importance of a car warranty; the shiny exterior and new car smell excite new owners so that they forget about the practicality of a warranty. What is a car warranty? Depending on the car dealer, the warranty is a legally binding agreement between the consumer and the manufacturer or dealer. This contract promises repairs to the vehicle, under certain circumstances, at no charge to the consumer.
In essence, the manufacturer or car dealer is placing trust into the vehicle’s structure and functionality to prove that it is a quality product. As a result, the driver has peace of mind if the vehicle unexpectedly breaks down. However, choosing the best warranty can be difficult. Some websites offer the ability to compare warranties. Type in your ZIP code and compare auto insurance rates now!
1. New Cars
A new car should be perfect, right? Like any mechanical item, new vehicles can have unexpected defects that can occur. The majority of new cars come with a full warranty. However, new owners should note that a warranty does not necessarily cover every item, such as wiper blades. Any items known for basic wear and tear, like oil filters or belts, are normally not covered under a typical warranty unless they have a manufacturing defect.
New car warranties cover the main components, like the drive train. Pistons, axles, transmission, and engine parts are all covered under a drive train warranty. The emissions components, that control pollution into the surrounding atmosphere, have a different warranty coverage; the federal government covers a portion of the emissions equipment along with the manufacturer.
Batteries and tires will often have their own warranty coverage from their respective manufacturers, rather than the car producer itself. A less common warranty coverage includes rust protection; aside from surface rust, the manufacturer should cover any rust that infiltrates the interior of the vehicle’s sheet metal.
2. Used Cars
Any driver looking to purchase a used vehicle should definitely insist on a warranty. Many legitimate used car dealerships use a certified pre-owned system; vehicles placed under a certified warranty will have been inspected and repaired prior to entering the showroom.
Consumers should look for these warranty types since the dealer is promising that the vehicle is well tuned directly from him or her. The dealership’s reputation is contingent upon a well running car under the certified label.
3. Extended Warranties
Inevitably, a new or used car warranty will end, normally after several years or 30,000 miles. However, consumers do have a defense against surprise repairs: the extended warranty. Depending on the dealership, many businesses offer extended warranties at different price ranges; the more parts covered, the more expensive the warranty policy will be. In the end, the consumer may be quite happy to be paying for the policy if an expensive part fails, like the transmission.
4. Roadside Assistance
Even if the vehicle is covered under warranty, the car will not typically fail directly in front of the dealer. Consumers should make sure that the warranty includes roadside assistance. This feature will commonly include towing and small road repairs, like replacing a flat tire. Towing prices can be expensive, so including the roadside assistance within the warranty helps the consumer save money in case of an emergency.
5. Third Party Coverage
Some consumers enjoy shopping for warranty coverage; a dealership may not offer the policy type that the consumer insists upon. As a result, the consumer looks for third party coverage, usually from an insurance company. Consumers should compare pricing and coverage types before agreeing to any policies to ensure that the best coverage is applied to the vehicle.
6. Coverage Period
Depending on the warranty insurer, consumers should check the policy to see if it covers a reasonable amount of time. If a dealer insists on a 6-month warranty, consumers should be wary of the policy; six months is an incredibly short amount of time for a vehicle. Coverage periods should be several years, not a few months.
7. Tinkering
A lot of car owners enjoy working on their engines to customize the performance. Consumers should be aware that it is possible to void a warranty with any engine modifications. Before attempting any engine changes, the consumer should read the policy in full to ensure that they are not indirectly voiding the warranty.
8. Read the Fine Print
With any legal agreement, car owners need to sit down and read the fine print. The manufacturer has created the document to work for them; consumers need to make it work for them. If there is any confusion, car owners can have a law professional review the wording. Going the extra mile to ensure that the warranty is fair and includes all desired features will help the owner in the long run.
Purchasing car warranty coverage is not a glamorous job, but it is an important document to read and obtain. In fact, comparing warranty quotes is the best option for drivers. Simply type in your ZIP code into the FREE comparison evaluation window and look over all the options.
Posted on: February 29, 2012 | In Car Tips
Using classified ads in a newspaper to purchase a used car can be a tedious process. A buyer needs to thoroughly investigate each potential seller before making a final decision. Failing to do so can leave the buyer with a used vehicle that runs poorly or has undisclosed damage. Classified ads promising cheap cars may be offering an inferior product over those sellers who charge higher prices for better vehicles. Find the best quality auto insurance coverage for you by entering your ZIP code into our FREE comparison tool above!
Insuring a Used Vehicle
Obtaining valid auto insurance is still necessary before finalizing the purchase of a used car. It’s the responsibility of the private seller to make certain the purchaser has valid insurance before releasing the vehicle.
- Finding affordable car insurance can be difficult for a consumer who has a previous history of accidents or significant traffic violations.
- Many websites offer free information on obtaining the lowest possible rates by comparing the offers of several different auto insurance companies.
- Enter your ZIP code to compare car insurance quotes for FREE.
Lack of Vehicle Warranty
Purchasing a used car from a private owner may require a consumer to accept the vehicle without any manufacturer’s warranty. This presents a significant risk for a car buyer — especially when purchasing a used vehicle from a classified ad.
- If a warranty remains on the vehicle at time of purchase, it’s the consumer’s responsibility to verify that the coverage transfers, if the vehicle changes owners.
- Without a warranty, the cost of any maintenance issues or part replacements for wear and tear come out of the purchaser’s pocket.
- Ask to see the current owner’s repair records for the vehicle. Examining the documentation can help you determine if the car has chronic problems or has undergone major repairs in the past.
No Lemon Law Protection
Lemon laws are state regulations that protect car buyers from purchasing perpetually defective automobiles. The Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act of 1975 is the federal version of state lemon laws, which protects all consumers across the United States.
- If a consumer purchases a used car from a private seller, neither state lemon laws nor the federal lemon law protects the transaction. This means you have no legal recourse, if you purchase a used vehicle with a chronic defect from a private seller.
- The consumer purchasing the vehicle accepts it in “as is” condition. A buyer can’t go back to the seller and demand he repair existing damage to the car after the sale takes place
- In the absence of owner repair records, request a vehicle repair history from a private third-party vehicle history company. These records can verify the current owner’s vehicle repair/maintenance claims.
Visually Inspect the Vehicle
Visual inspection of a vehicle is necessary for more than simple damage assessment. Examining several key materials before purchasing a car from a private seller helps rule out potential legal pitfalls
- Make certain the 17-digit VIN number on the vehicle’s dashboard and doors match. Differing VIN numbers on the same vehicle can indicate theft, according to Lawyers.com.
- Examine the odometer readings on the dashboard and under the car’s wheel well. Two different odometer readings may indicate either an attempt to alter the vehicle’s mileage or a change in engine.
- Request a sale history of the vehicle from the current owner. Reviewing this information allows a potential buyer to see how many times the car’s title changed hands. Sale history also contains odometer readings for each sale, which is useful for catching potential fraud.
Finalizing the Sale
Finalizing the purchase of a car from a private seller requires the buyer to obtain a Bill of Sale from the seller. This document serves as tangible legal evidence of the transfer of property and the sale amount.
- To be legal, the car’s Bill of Sale must include the vehicle’s 17-digit VIN number, the seller’s name and address.
- Verify the seller has the vehicle’s title. The title is necessary to ensure the vehicle’s registration is valid. Contacting the local department of motor vehicles with car’s registration and VIN number is usually sufficient to verify the title holder.
- If the seller can’t produce the vehicle’s title, walk away from the deal.
- A buyer’s local department of motor vehicles can also verify that the car’s title is clean. A “clean” title has no liens placed by creditors looking for money from the seller. Purchasing a vehicle with existing liens can leave the buyer in a fight over vehicle ownership with the seller’s creditors.
- Don’t bring cash to the sale. Present the seller with a bank draft for the negotiated sale price.
Keys and Special Equipment
Obtain any extra key copies from the seller along with any special equipment included with the vehicle. Special equipment can include wheel lug keys to unlock lug nuts or a specialized jack to lift the vehicle during tire replacement. Equipment of this nature can also assist in vehicle maintenance and make it easier to keep the car running at optimal condition.
- If a buyer makes improvements to a used vehicle, including adding safety features, the buyer’s auto insurance company may be able to grant her additional premium discounts
- Never be afraid to shop around for better insurance rates. Most companies allow a potential buyer to enter her information and obtain a quote for FREE with no obligation to purchase
Conclusion
Finding a quality vehicle from a private seller is still possible. A consumer simply has to perform the necessary research and follow all buying steps to ensure a satisfactory experience. Rushing the process doesn’t help a consumer purchase a quality used vehicle. A legitimate seller won’t mind the consumer’s methodical approach. If the seller tries to rush the process, walk away and look for a more amicable sales experience. Be sure to enter your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool below for a list of auto insurance rates that best fits you!
Posted on: February 27, 2012 | In Car Tips
With lightning speed, powerful engines, screeching tires and radical vehicles, Sprint Car Racing and being a guy seem to go together like fresh air and sunshine. Race fans are drawn to the sport like moths to a flame. For those extra-enthusiastic fans who decide to buy a Sprint Car, the Sprint Car classifieds come in handy.
Browse Through the Classifieds to Find Your Dream Car
Sprint Cars are not the average set of wheels and insuring them is not like buying insurance for the family station wagon. Responsible Sprint Car owners make sure to buy enough of the right kind of insurance. Before getting out the checkbook or Visa card, entering your ZIP code for a FREE comparison of car insurance rates is a good way to start.
Plenty of Online Sources to Check for Great Deals
You won’t have to look far to hit pay dirt with the classifieds. But unlike the auto classifieds from newspapers, the online versions come with plenty of color photos.
- For those who have the money, a 2006 Bailey chassis with a 05-06 GSXR 1000 engine is advertised for $11,000. The chassis has all the updates and this car was powder coated just last winter. The engine has only eight races and the car has QA1 shocks all around. The car comes with sprockets, a sprocket wrench, an axle nut wrench, tires, extra rims and a bead breaker.
- For slightly less, a 2006 PMP mini Sprint Car, ready to race, is being sold for $8,500. This car has a fuel forward seven-gallon bladder tank and was only raced twice in 2011. It needs some work, and the seller is willing to negotiate and will accept a best offer from interested buyers.
- A pair of Hyper Mini-Sprints – one a 2002 and the other a 2003 – comes with a spare motor for each car. Also for sale are Mini Sprint parts including nuts and bolts, a full set of rims, extra tires, a manual jack, a lug wrench and a bucket load of electrical parts.
Dirt Track Racers Know Where to Look
Sprint Car enthusiasts have a sixth sense when it comes to finding good deals online. Scrolling through the ads reveals a variety of wheels for sale.
- A 2006 Smackdown Masterbuilt is listed for $8,000 or best offer. This car has Integra double adjuster shocks, Wilwood hubs and calipers, Calip brake rotors, TWM birdcages and a Teltac digital tachometer. It’s also equipped with a Franklin quick change rear end and a 22-gallon Stuckey fuel cell.
- A used 2008 Pierce Mod chassis # 646 is going for $4,500. Some of the features include Pierce Afco shocks, tubular lower A-arms, a Winters nine-inch rear end with axels, a tear drop fuel cell and Hawk brake pads. The buyer also gets Howe ball joints, an Afco J-Bar, Dynatech headers and steering quickener.
- A 2002 Rocket built in 2008 is also being advertised, as well as a 2002 Rocket built in 2002 and a 2004 Rocket updated to a 2006. All are straight and being sold as rollers.
Individual Parts Also Available Through the Classifieds
The way Sprint Cars are built has remained basically the same over the years. The support system for the chassis hasn’t undergone any major changes and the suspension and steering is relatively simple. Sprint Car fans who are do-it-yourself mechanics handy with a wrench can undertake the project of their dreams.
Surf the Web to Find Just the Right Part
More than one website sells a number of auto components including bodies, accessories, brake systems, exhaust systems, tires, wheels, engines, seats and steering systems. Some are organized with a buyer’s guide listing company names and phone numbers, where clicking on the name of an individual company in the buyer’s guide brings up details for that particular dealer.
- A 2010 Twister chassis, plus a long list of spare parts, is being sold for $15,500. Built in September 2010, “The Twister Sister” frame and components raced four times. Some of the spares include four wheels and tires, a 4:11 Winters rear end, eight sets of gears and four Weld/Duralite/DMI front hub assemblies.
- A seller in Illinois cleaning out the garage is advertising a wide variety of miscellaneous Sprint Car parts. Some of those parts included a used MSD Pro Mag with two boxes, extra cap and wires for $850, a set of diaphragm bleeders used once for $270 and a used Griffin radiator for $50.
- One advertiser in California posted a want ad to trade a full roller or turnkey operation for a 360 Sprint motor.
- A nonprofit, Racers Against Texting While Driving, posted a want ad for 2-straight Sprint Car frames.
Where’s More Than One Way to Buy a Car
If you’re not afraid to compete with others in the bidding process and you know when to quit there’s some great deals lurking in cyberspace. Prices for items bounce around frequently.
- A new three-inch offset weld racing 15 by 8 inch Sprint Car direct mount front wheel is listed for $184.99.
- A new 10-piece Winters Sprint Car axle spacer kit is listed for $64.99. The kit is unopened and in its original packaging.
- A used weld sprint wheel center axle hub is listed at just 1 cent. Expect the bids to rise when others jump into the competition. Another of the same type of item has a current bid of $20.09 and a third wheel hub has a current bid of $51.
- A Keizer aluminum Sprint Car rear wheel center is listed for $119.99. A Keizer aluminum Sprint Car midget front wheel center is also up for grabs at $159.99.
- A number of Keizer Sprint Car bead lock covers are for sale ranging in price from $289.99 to $479.99.
With all the power and speed under the hood contained in a Sprint Car, whoever buys one of these racing machines has special auto insurance needs. Rates vary greatly depending on location as well as other factors. Before buying, shop around to get the best rates on auto insurance by entering your ZIP code to compare rates for FREE.
Posted on: February 25, 2012 | In Car Tips
Car enthusiasts looking to buy a rare vehicle or professional dealers on the lookout to expand their collection have several resources at their disposal. Thanks to the power of the internet, online classifieds make it easy to find that perfect car. Going one step further into the testosterone-laced world of V-8 power and Hemi engines, muscle car classifieds are a handy source of information.
Be sure to locate the best coverage for your muscle car by entering your ZIP code into the FREE comparison tool above!
There’s More Than One Way to Locate a Car
One way to search for muscle cars is by looking at the make, model or year. Mautofied.com, a website with numerous listings, allows a search based on location, make, model or options, vehicle features or other categories. For example clicking on Chevy, and then narrowing down the search based on vehicles for sale or possible trade, helps pinpoint what you want. There are all kinds of cars in every price range and with various options. Auto insurance rates for vehicles like these are in their own distinct categories, so enter your ZIP code now for a FREE car insurance comparison.
- One of the listing is a 1971 Chevy Chevelle with an asking price of $29,500. This sleek two-door coupe, with a customized silver and orange paint job, has rear-wheel drive, eight cylinders and automatic transmission. The interior is black, and it has a navigation system and upgraded intake, air ride suspension from Air Ride Technologies and a Holley carburetor with electric fuel pump.
- A red 1969 Chevy Chevelle Super Sport is listed for $26,000. Modifications include 22-inch custom rims, a custom system, a custom interior and upgraded intake, headers and exhaust. To give buyers a better look at it, eight photos are included.
- A red 1982 two-door Oldsmobile Cutlass is listed for $15,000. It has rear wheel drive, automatic transmission and a burgundy interior. Like many other muscle cars, its eight-cylinder big block engine takes 93 octane fuel.
Other muscle cars listed include AMC, Buick, Cadillac, Chrysler, Datsun, Dodge, Ford, GMC and Lincoln. Searching for a car based on roll cage, air cylinders, air shocks, airbags, link suspension or race springs brings up more results.
- A 2001 Dodge Viper GTSR, a car built for speed, is listed for $125,000. The eye-catching yellow paint job with black racing stripes is enough on its own to get anyone’s attention. Add in 10 cylinders, six-speed manual transmission, 1,100 horsepower and 960 torque and you get the idea it burns rubber on command. The car runs on 100-plus octane – race fuel – so don’t even try to keep up with it.
- A black 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, decked out with bold white racing stripes, is guaranteed to get the pulse racing on sight. The list price is a cool $50,000, and seven photos accompanying the car give an online view at multiple angles. Modifications include a roll cage, suspension coilovers and tinted windows. Under the hood, its eight cylinders give 600 hp, and the car cruises along smoothly on 20-inch custom rims.
Get More Muscle for the Money
On themusclecarplace.com, sellers can place a listing for $39 and have it run for 30 days. To keep car owners and enthusiasts in the communications loop, there is an option to click either on a link to the eBay Motors muscle car listings or a link to learn about the Muscle Car Dealer Program. The latest listings are truly radical street machines.
- A 1966 Oldsmobile 442, listed at $32,995, is advertised as having a rebuilt engine and only one repaint. The car is in good shape, with its original bodywork and floor pan completely rust-free. It has classic bench seats, automatic transmission, power windows and power steering, as well as a 400 cubic V-8 engine.
- A 1964 Chevrolet Impala seems like the epitome of a classic muscle car, and shoppers doing their homework can find one here for $22,995. It has 34,824 miles, blue interior, automatic transmission and an original 327 and Powerglide drive train. The chrome and trim is original, and power under the hood comes from an original 327 cubic inch V-8 engine.
- For a little less, a 1964 Ford Galaxie is listed with an asking price of $16,995. The car has red interior, a four-speed manual transmission, a 390cid V-8 engine and a powerful Edelbrock carburetor and intake manifold. For those who collect car stats, this one was made in Atlanta in November 1964.
Look for a Classic Car to Find Hot Wheels
Literally thousands of cars are listed on autotraderclassics.com, which makes finding the right muscle or pony car easier than scouring the newspaper classifieds the old-fashioned way. Prices vary widely, to fit all budgets.
- One of the most heart-stopping listings comes with a warning advising shoppers the price listed is no typo. The asking price – more than $3.3 million – is for a 1970 Hemi Plymouth Barracuda with only 17,750 miles. The vehicle is identical to the factory-sponsored All-American Racer Barracudas Swede Savage and Dan Gurney raced in the 1970 Trans Am Series. The owner seems sincere in selling it, as evidenced by the 12 photos showcasing the car’s assets.
- A bit less expensive is a pair of 1969 Ford Mustangs, going for almost $400,000. The rare Boss 302 cars were given as the grand prize in a 2011 charity giveaway to help Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with their medical care.
- On the other end of the scale, many vehicles affordably priced at $10,000 or less are listed. Among those are a rebuilt 1978 Pontiac Trans Am for $9,995; a 1973 Dodge Charger for $6,900; and a 1974 Pontiac GTO with a 350 motor block, shaker hood and shaker breather for $4,800.
Listings are updated regularly, so check the classifieds frequently for the most up-to-date information on what cars are for sale. It goes without saying that purchasing insurance for these classic cars will be more expensive than insuring other types of cars, so before you put down any money shop around for the best rates. One of the easiest ways to save time and effort is to get a FREE quote comparison by ZIP code.
Posted on: February 23, 2012 | In Car Tips
Collector car classified ads hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. Few are able to keep themselves from picking up one of the colorful newsprint books and leafing through, even if they aren’t in the market for a collector car. In many ways, they are the ultimate car enthusiast’s dream books, and some enthusiasts even maintain collections of the magazines to peruse at their leisure.
There are two sides to any classified ad. The seller and the buyer, and each side has to know how best to interact with the other. Sellers have to know how to attract and encourage buyers, and buyers have to know how to negotiate with sellers to get the best deal. To get the best deal for auto insurance, enter your ZIP code into our FREE comparison tool above!
Selling with Collector Car Classifieds
Collector car classified ads almost always use photographs to show readers what is being offered. While these advertisements do cost more to post than a simple three-line description, they are also more effective. Consider for a moment what draws your own eye when you peruse a classified ad or even a standard magazine article. The pictures are there to draw your attention and get you interested in what the article or the advertisement text has to say. If you have to sell your car in a hurry, a color photograph really is the best way to go.
Tips for Taking the Photograph
When photographing the vehicle, keep in mind that you have to put the car’s best foot forward. Look at car magazines to see how professional photographers set up their shots. You’ll notice that there isn’t much to distract the eye from the vehicle itself. Use the following tips to ensure your car looks its best for its time in the limelight.
- Avoid photographing the vehicle on a bright, sunny day. This will reduce the potential for glare.
- Wash the car thoroughly before taking the photograph
- Take several pictures so that you can choose later which ones are the best.
- Make certain that the entire car is in the viewfinder when you take the picture.
- Avoid including models or other props in the photo. The ad is about the car, after all.
- Avoid busy or distracting backgrounds
- Set up photographs that show at least three sides of the vehicle. Front or rear, side and top.
Describing the Vehicle
When you describe the vehicle, be honest. Let potential buyers know if the car has specific damage that will have to be attended to. The reason for this is that collector car classifieds typically have a much wider distribution than normal new car classifieds. A potential buyer might travel from several hundred miles to inspect the car, and if they’re disappointed in what they find, you’ll lose their respect, and they may no longer wish to purchase the vehicle from you.
Cover all the basics, while at the same time keeping the wording succinct. List the engine, any rare or desirable options, the vehicle’s condition, and any other pertinent information. This will ensure that your car sells quickly and with a minimum of trouble.
Purchasing a Car Through Collector Car Classifieds
When purchasing a collector car through a classified advertisement, the words “let the buyer beware” should be first on any potential purchaser’s mind. Any deal that seems too good to be true probably is. While there may be the off chance that there’s a woman in Kansas who wants to sell her husband’s Superbird for $50 because she found out he had a second wife somewhere, it isn’t likely, and should be met with considerable skepticism.
The same is true of vehicles that seem overpriced, but are in poor condition. One popular misdirection that some sellers use is by painting or equipping a mundane, everyday car with the components that would make it more rare and valuable. The caveat to this is that the only way the car appreciates in value with such parts is if it was originally equipped that way from the factory. The VIN code on the car tells it’s life story. When you call about a car you’re interested in, ask for the vin code before you agree to meet and see the vehicle. Then, use the VIN to figure out what the car was originally equipped with.
Current values of collector cars can be found in several publications, most of which can be found at your local bookstore. They’ll give the value of a good-condition vehicle that runs and drives based on the current market demand for that car or truck. That will give you a good indication as to whether the seller is being honest about the price of the car or not. Don’t forget to add the cost of insurance into your calculations, though. Enter your ZIP code here to find and compare car insurance FREE of charge with our comparison tool below!
Making the Purchase
Whenever possible, avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. A cashier’s check works the same way that cash does, but protects both the buyer and the seller from criminal activities. Make it clear to the seller over the phone that you intend to pay with a cashier’s check. If they aren’t willing to accept that payment, then be suspicious.
After you’ve got payment terms worked out, make plans to inspect the car. Regardless of how good the car appears to be or sounds, making a purchase without an inspection is extremely foolhardy. Look for the same things in a collector car that you would in a normal car. Things such as body panels out of alignment, parts missing or even uneven tread wear could indicate that the car has seen a rough life. Look under the car at the space behind the rear wheels. Chunks of rubber stuck here might indicate that the car has been raced.
A good transaction with collector car classifieds depends on honesty with both parties to the deal, but it can be a great way to get a good deal on a vintage car, and is the best way to sell your collector car should you need to. To find the best deals on auto insurance for your classic car, be sure to enter your ZIP code into our FREE comparison tool below!
Posted on: October 15, 2011 | In Car Tips
When a person is ready to purchase a vehicle, they are going to find that this is a process that is a huge undertaking for anyone. They are going to find that this comes in second place to buying their own home and they are decisions that should be weighed and carefully analyzed. The person should know what they can afford, and so forth before jumping into any type of financing deal with the car lot that they are working with. However, there are a few things that the person can do in order to make sure that this situation goes much better than what they had expected.
First things first, a good idea for anyone that is going to buy a new car is to find out just how much they qualify for in terms of the car loan. Why is this the best step? There are some people that go out and decide to buy a new car and then go through the process after they find the car that they have fallen in love with. And sometimes when a person does this, they are going to find that the lender simply will not approve them for that much money on a new car, for various reasons. Therefore, the person either has to come up with this money out of their own pocket or settle for another vehicle that they may not love as much. So, in order to avoid confusion, delay and basically being let down later, getting pre approved for a loan can tell you just how much you have to spend. However, this does not mean that you can really afford this, so be sure to do the figures on this as well.
Now that you know how much you have been pre approved for, decide what type of car that you are looking for. Just because you are being pre approved for a loan, does not mean that you have to take the full amount of that loan. You should be sure that you are getting a great deal on the car that your getting since this means that you are more than likely going to be much happier with the end results in the long run. Thus, shop around and see what the average cost for the particular car that you are looking at goes for.
Another tip that many people have a hard time following is that you should not go out and buy something that same day. You should allow yourself to sit on the options that you have and then weigh carefully if this is something that you are going to want to keep. Most people end up keeping new cars for around five years or longer, thus ask yourself if this car is something that you can picture yourself in for years to come? Also, check out various car lots in your area to find out if someone is offering a better deal on the vehicle that you are interested in. Sometimes when the lot knows that you are looking around the area, they will come down quite a bit in order to keep your business, which is a great way to make sure that you get a great deal.
Posted on: October 12, 2011 | In Car Tips
Many people that have ever been involved in an accident and the other person that hit them happened to be someone that was of an older generation, may state that the reason that the accident happened was because the older person simply could not see well enough to drive. And there has been many incidents over the years in which the main culprit for why this happened was because the other person was not wearing their glasses or contacts, or perhaps the person was one of those people that claim that they can see even though an optometrist would disagree.
Those that can remember their drivers test remember that they have to take a visual test to ensure that they could actually see at least twenty feet in front of them. Which for many people twenty feet was a bit scary as they do not want someone hitting them from the back only because they didn't see them when they were more than twenty feet away. However, the times of the visual test seem to be fading as more and more states are cutting this from their drivers test. What will this mean?
Well for those that really can't see, congratulations, as you just earned yourself the right to drive without proving that you can see, which may be a bit stressful to those that have problems. As long as the person tells the office that they can see, then the license will be approved for them to drive. For those that are on the road with these people, then it can be a bit nerve racking to know that the person behind you may not really see your car, they may be seeing two of it and just going with the flow. But why are states no longer doing the visual test?
The main reason is budget cuts. For example, New York is putting this rule into action in hopes that more people will simply renew their license online. Other states have pointed out that without having to have someone there to vision test that they save money on that one person that they would have to pay to be there and pay benefits to. But is this safe?
AAA seems to think not as they are one of the groups that is going against the rules that the states are passing, and there are several doctors that are right there with this group stating that this is just asking for trouble. Many times when the eyesight deteriorates, the person does not notice since it does this slowly, which is what most are arguing about this law. So what are going to be the repercussions of this new rule?
Right now, it seems that states are going to be getting more money into their pockets instead of having to share this with county governments since they are pushing online renewal of the licenses. However, another point that is being brought up is the fact that people could see Car insurance rates increase as the companies may deem that person more of a risk because they have not had their vision checked.
Posted on: October 11, 2011 | In Car Tips
There are many responsibilities and worries that come along with owning a vehicle. And one of these is the fact that the car could be stolen. And for those that think that this can never happen to the they should think again, as the majority of cars in the world have at one point or another been broken into with the intent to steal these or have been stolen. Of course, those that are driving a car that is not one that is really worth that much usually do not have much to worry about, unless the person is simply wanting something to drive until they run it out of gas. So what can a person do in order to make sure that they are doing whatever they can do in order to prevent their vehicle from being stolen?
Most of the tips to avoid having your car stolen are those that are rather common sense, but still everyday people make these errors that result in their car being stolen. First things first, always take your keys. Never leave the keys simply laying there while you run in to get something or something along that nature. It has been estimated that twenty percent of the cars stolen, the thieves actually use the keys that the person left in the car. Along the same line as this is to lock your doors. Almost half of thefts associated with vehicles are done to those cars that do not lock their doors. The reason for this is that they are much easier to get into without being noticed.
The person should also consider where they are parking. They should also try their best to park under a light or something along that nature when in a dark parking lot at night. This is because the thieve is not going to want to risk being seen in the light. And with that being said, the closer the person parks to the store or so forth, the less likely of a chance that their car will be stolen since there are bound to be people around the area that would see the thief.
Of course, a few other tidbits help to deter those thieves that could be wanting your car. For example, do not leave the valuable that you have in the car out in the open for all to see. You should also never leave your windows down since this is just inviting people to take a browse and take whatever it is that you have in the car.
For those that may be parking their car for a long time, such as leaving their car in airport parking or so forth, they should take the extra precaution of removing valuable items, stereo face plates, and then making it where the car is not drivable. For example, undo the battery cables so that if the thief gets into the car, yet it does not start, they are going to leave. They are not going to take the time to be your mechanic and figure out what is wrong to get the car running again as this increases their chances of being caught.
