Tips to Select The Right Car - Autocross

The hardest part about autocross (aside from learning how to race) in my opinion is discovering the best auto. Sure, you are able to use a every day driver, but that's not recommended if you're going to participate in numerous events a year. Autocross can develop wear on the tires along with other components really quickly and can get high-priced really quickly. I would recommend to obtain a car that you simply can use for autocross. This might be a "trailer car" or a vehicle which you can still drive on the road, but use only for this hobby.

You will find 4 key components to think about when selecting a car for autocross:

1) What kind of car to get
2) The Cost of the automobile
3) The overall condition of the car (if utilised)
4) Aftermarket upgrades/modifications

WHAT Sort OF Vehicle To get FOR AUTOCROSS:

For autocross racing, some folks would assume that the vehicle has to be extremely powerful, modest, 2 doors and modified. This just isn't entirely correct. While that variety of car could be nice, it truly is not essential to be competitive in autocross.

Remember that most autocross events and clubs have the cars grouped in to some sort of class. The club I participate with follow the SCCA Class guidelines. The classes support group the vehicles so the very same "level" of vehicles can stay competitive inside each class.

This is carried out to prevent the "biggest and fastest is best" state of believed. It could be unfair to place a heavily modified Porsche GT3 up against a stock Ford Focus. This is why they do that.

So, to choose the best auto for autocross, you'd probably want a coupe or convertible Initial if doable. Sedans can work well too, but some sedans aren't geared for modifications, while, the sport sedans of these days are actually starting to take over.

Manual transmission will be recommended, however, if you have an automatic that is OK too. You might want to think about trading it for a manual within the future to remain competitive. Once again, you can find still "sport shift" type automatics on the market that are acquiring far better and better every single day.

Ideally, you would also want a rear-wheel drive automobile for autocross. RWD cars generally offer greater control and handling in most cases. I know some enthusiasts available will disagree with me, but that's OK. On the other hand, I've utilized several front-wheel drive cars that run using the greatest of them.

Price:

The price of acquiring a vehicle for autocross is usually the factor for me. I, like a lot of others, cannot afford an costly car for autocross. There are, even so, those that will afford it and price is still some thing for them to think about.

The $0-$5000 range:

This could be the range most of us beginners want to start. Of course, free of charge is Great, but contemplate the 3rd component (overall situation) when this option comes to mind. Several vehicles that can perform nicely and have a lot of upgradable possibilities are the following:

1989-1997 Mazda Miata - Really good energy to weight ratio. It truly is Quite popular at autocross. 1979-1991 Mazda RX7 - Quick little car, handles nicely. Several upgrades offered. 1989-1998 Nissan 240sx - A number of aftermarket upgrades, handles very properly. 1990-1999 BMW 3 Series - Really versatile automobile. You are able to discover very good models in this range now. 1988-2000 Honda Civic/CRX - I've seen several models compete well in autocross. 1984-1999 Toyota MR2 - Low center of gravity, great performance, mid engine. 1990-1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse/Eagle Talon - Several upgrades, some models Turbo AWD. 2000-2007 Ford Focus - Really competitive vehicles. SVT models accessible in price range. 1997-2003 VW Golf - Hatchbacks constantly like autocross. VR6 models offered in range. 1990-1999 Acura Integra - Like the Civic, really competitive with numerous upgrades on the market.

There could be some far more vehicles that I missed that fall beneath this cost range. The strategy I use to hunt for vehicles can differ depending on the variety I am looking for. I will use local classified ads, Craigslist. I will also use the bigger vehicle searches and expand my common "hunting" area. I've successfully identified great cars utilizing VEHIX, AutoTrader together with Government Auction Internet sites.

But what about the autocross vehicles above the $5000 range? Properly, I am glad you're feel that because I am about to list them below.

For those who have some dollars to work with and need to get some thing newer, you'll be able to contemplate the following cars:

The $5,001-$20,000 range:

This range can include newer vehicles in addition to pre-owned vehicles which are no far more than several years old. Keep in mind, cars generally depreciate very fast, so as the years go by, some of the newer cars can be within reach for less dollars and are excellent for autocross. The cars beneath come to mind in this range:

1998-Current Mazda MX-5 - Still identical fundamental automobile, but a lot more energy as they got newer. 2003-Current VW Golf - Much more modified than the previous versions, compete properly. 1992-1997 Mazda RX7 - 3rd Gen is twin-turbo and can compete in autocross. 1992-2006 BMW M3 - M3's are created for racing. Some newer models will fall in this range. 1998-2003 BMW M5 - M5's are really powerful and compete in their class nicely. 1994-Current Ford Mustang/Cobra - Very versatile automobile. Competes well in class. 1994-2002 Camaro/Firebird - Competes well in class. Several autocross upgrades. 2007-Current Mazda Mazdaspeed3 - Turbo, hatchback, competes well in autocross. 2003-2008 Nissan 350z - Great autocross automobile, really well-known on the track. Unique Autocross Kit vehicles such as the V6 Stalker fall in this range as well.

Now, this cost range can differ in vehicles. Plenty of these vehicles are still new and could require loans to purchase them.

The $20,001 spectrum will consist of a few of the current-day models as well as the obvious "super cars" we all respect such as the Corvette, Viper, Porsche, Ferrari, Lotus and other people. I won't include a list for those simply because if you're buying one of those for an autocross auto, you did your investigation.

OVERALL Situation OF THE Automobile (Utilized):

When acquiring a second automobile for autocross, treat it like whenever you are purchasing your everyday driver auto. You need the auto to be comparatively totally free of key troubles. Autocross racing can place stress on the car's frame, the suspension, the brakes, the tire as well as the overall body of the auto.

You need to be sure that the automobile has not been in any major accidents. Frame repair or frame harm can be quite risky mixture once you autocross. That is probably the most crucial thing to check for when buying a automobile for autocross. I've experienced and utilised the service by Experian called AutoCheck. They supply an unlimited number of VIN checks for one of their service options along with the value is way greater than the other services available. I have employed it when shopping and comes in extremely handy once you are checking the history of a vehicle.

The subsequent essential item to check on the automobile is key component troubles for example smoke coming out of the back of the exhaust, significant oil leaks (little leaks are expected on most utilized vehicles) slight/major overheating of the engine. Autocross is outside and you push the auto to the limit. You want the main components to be inside the best shape they may be. The mentioned difficulties can leave you stranded at the track if you usually do not appear out for them.

I generally have some expectation to complete minor repair or preventive repairs on my vehicles when I am getting to autocross them. As I stated above, small oil/fluid leaks are "OK" and can generally be fixed really quickly. Tiny leaks tell us that the vehicle is just employed and may not be suffering from the leak as a result. Large/major leaks tell us the auto may possibly have been neglected by the prior owner and might carry residual issues unseen at the moment. When looking at a car, commence it up, drive it about using the A/C engaged (even if it does not work). Once you are completed with the test drive, leave it idling whilst you walk around the auto continuing to inspect it. If the automobile has an overheating dilemma, often this is the time it is going to show. This tip has helped me avoid several lovely autocross cars that had an overheating problem.

Belts and hoses are my most frequent "preventive" repair I do, even if they're not a problem. It's often finest to know when an critical component has been replaced as opposed to to "guess" and trust the previous owner. Water pumps, too, fall in this category often.

One issue individuals usually check when purchasing a utilized automobile are the tires. Yes, this is crucial for an autocross vehicle, but not to see how "good" the tires are, but to see if the automobile needs an alignment. Autocross is about handling and you have to be certain the car's stock "handling" potential is exactly where it ought to be.

Why not worry concerning the tires? Nicely, tires need to be one thing to consider getting for your autocross car to begin with, so the existing tires must be removed anyway. Tires are probably probably the most bought wear item an autocross member will buy. Lots of autocross racers will bring a set of tires for racing, one for driving residence (those who don't use a trailer) and some will even bring spares for the racing tires. This is so prevalent that Tire Rack provides tires just for autocross. I've employed them and they are the most effective spot to obtain tires for this.

AFTERMARKET MODIFICATIONS FOR AUTOCROSS:

If you ever look into the aftermarket world of the auto market, you know that you'll find literally thousands of places to look and get. I will list several spots that most men and women don't assume to look, but surprisingly have things for the autocross fans.

Very first and foremost, autocross vehicles do not often will need main upgrades to be competitive. A driver can use a stock automobile and compete against fellow stock vehicles and remain competitive. As soon as you begin to modify or upgrade heavily, you might commence to move into diverse classes and compete with other vehicles which can be equally modified. Maintain that in thoughts when you wish to change some thing.

Generally, I say modify the easy things very first: Intake, exhaust and general tune ups. Most autocross drivers do not go far from that. These must be the first things you try to upgrade whilst you participate in autocross to obtain the most performance out of your vehicle.

If you determine to go additional to be far more competitive, my subsequent recommendation could be suspension and body roll modifications. Please remember, certain upgrades in this area could change your class. Be sure to check your club or groups guidelines with these modifications.

Typically, the fastest upgrade to an autocross automobile would be front and rear strut tower bars/braces. They're generally inexpensive to purchase and straightforward to install. They are also quite modular meaning that when you purchase these, they'll work with other suspension components in location (generally). This modification helps stiffen the car's suspension and frame and helps with cornering.

The subsequent modification recommendation would then be the front and rear sway bars and links. These parts also help the body roll whilst cornering and handling and can occasionally be modular to the suspension program as a entire.

The final suspension upgrade is generally probably the most high-priced: The struts (shocks/springs). This upgrade normally functions well with the above items, but ads much more stiffness, more response to the handling and occasionally lower the auto overall for a lower center of gravity.

Once you have modified the whole suspension, my next recommendation will be to upgrade the brakes (at least the pads). This will aid your stopping capacity for those moments exactly where a tap of the brake is needed in the course of a lap. Please maintain in mind that high performance brake pads generally wear considerably quicker than OEM.

Among the final things I suggest to upgrade may be the tires. Now, I'm not saying which you need to not Very first buy new tires when you autocross, but I am saying not to UPGRADE them to an autocross/race tire just yet. Most autocross enthusiasts will let you know to obtain utilized to the stock/regular tires on your automobile very first.

As soon as you get utilised to stock sort tires, modifying them to a race tire or softer tire will really boost your lap instances (that is the theory anyway).

One final note. I recommend replacing the fluids within your auto with as a lot of synthetics as it is possible to. Synthetic fluids have greater heat resistance and can take the intense moments you'll be putting on the auto during the autocross laps.

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Top Affordable Fuel Efficient Cars Of 2013

With the rising prices of essential commodities, problems with distributor countries, and the imbalance between supply and demand, it becomes an inevitable experience for motorists to start considering the use of fuel efficient cars over popular, super-powered counterparts. If the automobile industry has anything to say about it, it is clearly that people should begin opening their minds to green options. The last five years have given way to the creation of hybrids, electric cars and smart cars for the new generation of responsible consumers. If you want to become part of the trend and help alleviate global warming, as well as lessen your normal gas expenditures, here are some of the most fuel efficient SUVs and cars of 2013 you can consider buying.

First on the list is the Hyundai Accent. This retails at $9,985 and entails a total cost of $11,464 on its first year of use, with the budget for gas already factored in. It has a fuel economy rating of 30 miles per gallon, and is considered the most affordable and low-maintenance car on the market as of today. It may not be as elegant as a Ferrari 360 Modena, but it certainly saves you a bundle on gas payments, since the latter can only run 11 miles per gallon.

Next up is the Kia Rio. At $12,295 per unit, this fuel efficient car offers more savings than the Accent running on 31 miles per gallon. The annual fuel costs for this machine reaches around $1,434. Even though it is less attractive, it is fully functional and will take you wherever you want to go.

Next, the Scion iQ. This is a smart car at only ten feet long, offering not only fuel efficiency, but also top-of-the-line safety features including 11 airbags. It gets 37 miles per gallon, with a 1.3 liter engine and has 94 horsepower, which is not at all bad for a car its size and a price of $15,995.

Fourth on the list, is the Toyota Prius. This is probably the most popular of all the fuel efficient cars released within 2011 and 2012, with a sticker price of $24,760 and a fuel economy of 51 miles per gallon. The best hybrid car so far, this midsize vehicle can accommodate a family of 5 and run with 134 net horsepower using a 1.8 liter engine.

Lastly, there is the Nissan Leaf SV. One of the latest fuel efficient SUVs released, this vehicle is actually the first mass-marketed electric one of its kind in the world. It has a fuel economy of 106 mpg that cuts about $700 off of the usual power expenses incurred for this type of machine. Like all 2012 models, it has high-tech navigation and connectivity specs. Although it is quite expensive with a $36,050 price tag, it does receive $7,500 federal tax credit.

Some of the high-end green cars that did not make this list are the Audi A6 2.0T Premium and the Infiniti M35h. Although they are competitively stylish, their price ranges of $40,000 to $60,000 do not justify their use. For one, they have less fuel economy ratings than a $10,000 car at 33 and 32 mpg, respectively. If you want to secure fuel efficiency and the best value for your money, you do not need to sacrifice a lot for an attractive mold.

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Advantages Of Buying Used Ford Fiesta Cars

Consider buying a second hand Ford car? Tired with your old ride and wants to shift to a performance level vehicle? Are you somehow limiting your budget but would still want to go for Ford? These are probably few of the questions you might get yourself thinking. If you prefer a vehicle equipped with the latest features then you might want to consider getting a used Ford Fiesta car.

There are several benefits a used Ford car can offer you. One of which is the convenience of getting it from any dealer. Most of these used cars are made available in automobile stores, online dealers and Ford direct markets.

Second advantage is its affordability. As compared to other brands, Ford cars are more reasonable. Their prices are within everybody's means and can be considered an economical investment. Worry not because there are several dealers that offer loan schemes allowing customer to purchase the most affordable Ford model.

Along with its affordability is its ability to last for several years. Used Ford Fiesta cars are known to have excellent interior workings that could remain reliable through the years. Contrary to traditional beliefs, pre-owned Ford fiesta cars are unlikely to break down. They don't necessarily require expensive repairs that often cause rip offs among customers.

Fuel efficiency is one advantage used Ford Fiesta cars can offer you. This feature can definitely save you from added problems that usually come with the purchase. As for the fuel consumption, buyers don't have to fret as Ford Fiesta cars are fuel efficient in nature. They were manufactured in such way that they won't rip you off with too much fuel consumption.

One more reason why most buyers are drawn to buying used Ford Fiesta cars is because of its appealing exterior design. Its sleek exterior definitely adds up to this vehicle's overall quality.

Some of the car owners are still torn between buying a brand new car or a used Ford Fiesta. Although both share the same technical and mechanical details, each still offers their own advantages and disadvantages.

There are a wide range of used Ford Fiesta cars made available for your personal selection. Take for instance Ford Fiesta 1.6. This Ford model comes with leather steering wheel and gear knobs, front fog lights, driver and passenger airbags, remote central locking and other features typical among Ford vehicles. Price range is usually from £15,200 to £16,000 which makes it one of the most affordable Ford models.

Ford Fiesta 1.4 shares the same technical details with that of Ford Fiesta 1.6. It uses petrol for its fuel and has a manual transmission. For detailed engineering, there are several online sites that you can provide you additional information.

Comparing the features of all Ford Fiesta models across all brands can help you pick your ideal vehicle. Check on the upgraded features as well as the technical details of these used Ford Fiesta cars. It is important that you get hold of a quality vehicle paired with quality services.

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Advantages And Disadvantages of Buying Used BMW Cars

When looking to shop for a BMW, there's ton of decisions to be considered. Apart from choosing what model of BMW to purchase, one should decide on a price range as well. Your budget for the purchase will find out whether to buy a new car or else a used car. The used car market is again divided in 2: certified pre-owned BMWs and simply used BMWs for sale.

It is essential to learn the difference between certified pre-owned vehicles plus used vehicles for sales. Understanding this difference is a good idea in much better selection making in a significantly essential purchase, for instance a car; especially when thinking about shopping for an expensive brand such as a BMW. Certified pre-owned and simply used BMWs have their pro and cons. These needs to be evaluated as well as weighed very carefully to make an educated buying decision.

Used BMWs for Sale

A used car, be it a BMW or any other make, is really what it looks like. It's a car which has been used by one or more than one person. These cars can be sold by individuals who previously held them; independent used car dealers and moreover specific brand dealers for used cars. If hunting for a used BMW for sale, it's better check out local classified ads, craigslist postings, or visit a BMW dealership near you.

Certified Pre-Owned BMWs for Sale

A certified pre-owned car is a used car, which goes through a detailed verification and also certification program by the manufacturer of the car prior to it is put for sale. To get a tag of "certified pre-owned", a car goes through lots of tests and also vigorous assessments to make sure that it is in best condition for its age and mileage covered. On passing the certification process, the car is given an extended warranty, as well as is all set for sale. In case, for whatever reason the car is not up to the mark in any area, it is sent to get fixed and so conditioned bringing it up to certification benchmarks. If looking for a certified pre-owned BMW for sale, check out local brand specific dealers plus used car dealers.

As with any selection, choosing whether to get a typical used car or a certified pre-owned car features its own pros and cons. It is best that one weighs these advantages and disadvantages to consider which alternate is a better purchase choice.

Benefits and drawbacks of Certified Pre-Owned Cars:

* These cars come with a manufacturer's certification and even assurance that the rigorous inspection has taken place, and that the car has passed the battery of tests.

* These cars will be very well serviced and detail cleaned just before put up for sale.

* Additional services like oil changes, roadside assistance, and so on will be given.

* Dealers will offer loans options.

* Additional mileage and an extended warranty by the manufacturer and/or the dealer are provided.

* Certified pre-owned cars will surely cost much more than their regular used car counterparts.

* Negotiation on rates will be restricted.

* Maintenance plus repair costs could come out lower.

* The dealer is held accountable for any kind of difficulties regarding the condition of the car.

Benefits and drawbacks of Regular Used Cars:

* Such cars do not come with any type of a certification, thus there's a specific amount of risk associated with the purchase.

* Such cars can look fine on the outside though might have interior problems which may go unreported.

* Additional services are a not part of the purchase deal.

* Extended warranty from the manufacturer or dealer is not offered.

* Prices for these cars might come out less expensive.

* Negotiations for an affordable price may be easily carried out with an independent party.

* Liability is of the buyer in case of any maintenance or repair issues.

Choosing whether to purchase a used BMW for sale or else chose from the certified pre-owned BMWs available for sale could made easier through weighing the pros and disadvantages listed above. In any case, if driving with enthusiasm and in luxury is exactly what you expect, BMW certified used cars should be on the top of your list.

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A Used Jeep Wrangler Gives You The Benefits Of A Jeep Without The Cost

If a used Jeep Wrangler is checked out carefully by a mechanic and is found to be in great shape, you have an excellent car at a savings in front of you. While a used Jeep Wrangler keeps its value very well as compared to most other makes and models, bringing its price up, there is still a lot of money saved with a used Jeep Wrangler. You are paying a few hundred dollars more for the value held in a used Jeep Wrangler, but in the scheme of things this is nothing compared to the price of a new model.

Driving a Jeep Wrangler gives notoriety to the driver. The driver is always noticed by others on the road. Many model cars look the same. Even a novice can identify the Jeep easily. This means the drivers have some added status that is positive if it makes them feel better about themselves. It is the kind of car for giving self-esteem.

When the used Jeep Wrangler is purchased, there is an entry into social gatherings, if that is of interest to the driver. There are many social events and gatherings celebrating the Jeep Wrangler. With a used Jeep Wrangler you are not just driving but making a statement. After all, it is an American icon, though ownership has passed through a few other companies throughout its illustrious history. Its origin was during World War II as the Willys-Overland Motor Company.

The used Jeep Wrangler, in this case the 2 door model, can come with a hard top, soft top or both. This is a preference for the buyer to decide based on his or her tastes and money available. An Unlimited 4 door model is available and this will set you back a few more dollars. They are also more like a Hummer in appearance due to their size. Keep in mind the Jeep soft top is not automatic and takes some doing to pull it down or put it up. The hard top can also be removed or 3 openings in the top are possible by removing the panels.

Another choice is whether an automatic or standard shift is desirable. Used models available might take that choice away. In some respects the standard shift transmission fits this type of vehicle better. Some vehicles just go together with a standard shift, not because the manual transmission is better but it makes an auto more sporty in appearance and function, depending upon the used Jeep Wrangler available,

Those seeking a used Jeep Wrangler should know they are not kings of the road regarding gas mileage. The newer versions claim 15 mpg city and 19 mpg city. This means realistically you get a lot less. Suburban driving can get you only 11 mpg. If gas is not a financial problem go for the used Jeep Wrangler that you found and live your dream.

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10Tips To Save Money When Your Automobile Lease Ends

Paying excess mileage charges when an auto lease ends is something most consumers take care to avoid. But many of these same careful lessees get an unhappy surprise at turn-in because of other charges and costs they failed to think about.

Carefully considering things such as best length of lease and residual value and then taking a few simple steps at the beginning of the lease and during the lease term can pay big dividends when the lease ends. The first thing is to read the lease document carefully and clearly understand the sections covering excess mileage, wear and tear, and processing fees.

Then consider what steps you can take to avoid charges when the auto is turned in. What you consider minor dings, dents or scratches can end up costing you a lot. When you lease a car, the sticker shock comes at the end, not the beginning, said Jack Gillis, a spokesman for the Consumer Federation of America and author of The Car Book, a buyer's guide.

A Changing Market

Consumers love auto leasing because it offers an easy way to get into a new car with a lower down payment and lower monthly payments than financing a vehicle to be purchased. This is because the lessee is only paying for the amount of the car's value that is used. Typically, people lease for three years, so they only pay for the first three years of a car's life which are definitely the car's best years.

Before tighter credit and lower residual values, car dealers also loved leasing because it brings customers back into the dealership at the end of the lease, every two or three years. Also, because many consumers are confused by leasing terms, dealers can more easily take advantage of them. Particularly in difficult economic conditions, leasing companies are looking for every way possible to improve their revenues.

Unfortunately, leasing which was once a way for car dealers, customers, and manufacturers to all get a decent deal is the latest victim of the economic downturn. Chrysler, Ford, BMW, GMAC and several major banks have announced reductions, if not complete elimination, of lease programs. Automobile dealers and experts expect more to follow. So a consumer who leased in the past should not assume the same rules apply today.

These changes and tighter credit conditions make it more difficult to lease and have caused leasing companies to be more stringent in their lease-end requirements. Lease contracts typically run 24 to 36 months, and consumers usually turn in their vehicles at the end of the term.

That leaves the auto maker on the hook to sell vehicles that may have declined significantly in value compared to assumptions made at the time the original lease was signed. And that means lessors are going over returned vehicles with a fine-tooth comb to get all the extra charges they can.

Major Problem Areas

Unexpected shocks and charges at turn-in are primarily associated with three areas of the lease, according to industry reports.

Disposition fee: This is a charge levied by the leasing company if the lessee chooses not to buy the vehicle at the end of the lease. This fee is set as compensation for the expenses of selling, or otherwise disposing of the vehicle. It typically includes administrative charges; the dealer s cost to prepare the car for resale and any other penalties.

Lessees need to make sure this fee is stated clearly in the contract and is agreeable before signing on the dotted line. At lease-end, the lessee is left in no position to negotiate as the dealer can apply the refundable security deposit towards this fee.

Excess mileage charges: Almost all leasing companies will charge a premium for each mile over the agreed upon mileage stated in the contract. This penalty can be as high as 25 cents per mile and can add up quickly.

To avoid the risk of running thousands of dollars in excess mileage penalties at the end of the lease, always check the per mile charges in the contract and be realistic about mileage before signing any contract. If the limit is unrealistic given the lessee s driving needs, then negotiate with the dealer to get a higher mileage contract.

Excess wear-and-tear charges: Another potential major cost at the end of the lease is any incidental damage done to the car during the lease. This is deemed any excessive damage done to the normal tear and wear of the vehicle. Notice the use of the terms deemed , excessive and normal . There is no standard formula to define what s excessive and normal and it s up to the leasing company to assess or deem the damage and determine what they are going to charge.

This leaves the lessee at the mercy of unscrupulous leasing agents who set stringent tear-and-wear standards. Dings, dents, scratches and windshield chips are a major area of unexpected large charges. Lessees need to carefully read the description of these standards, understand them and agree to them. If the leased vehicle is damaged prior to the end of the lease, the lessee may find it cheaper to repair the damage than pay the excessive charges of the leasing agent.

How Do You Avoid Extra Charges at The End of The Lease?

Many consumers are anxious about leasing's Judgment Day when the vehicle is returned to the dealer and its condition is inspected for extra charges. At the top of problem areas discussed above are excess wear-and-tear charges.

These fears are not unfounded, according to Tarry Shebesta, president of Automobile Consumer Services Corp., As the leasing market tightens up, banks are looking for a way to make money from returned cars. They will be more critical about wear and tear and any deviations from the lease contract.

Bottom line: Keep the car at a condition above and beyond average wear and tear to avoid penalties.

10 Ways to Save Money at Turn-In

Here are ten useful tips to keep in mind before and during the lease to prevent dings to your wallet as you say goodbye to your leased vehicle:

1. Choose a car with a naturally higher residual value. If the vehicle holds its value or surpasses its expected value there may be an option to buy it and make money at the end of the lease. This is particularly important in market conditions where the residual value of certain types of vehicles is dropping dramatically.

2. Don't go into a lease longer than you would normally keep a car. If you keep a car about three years, do a three-year lease. A four- or five-year lease will be harder to get out of and more difficult to turn in without extra fees. Don't lease longer than the warranty period that covers the car.

3. Purchase auto lease protection at the beginning of the lease. Cigarette burns or tears in the upholstery, certain dents, scratches, windshield chips and mechanical flaws can cause big charges if the leasing company considers them beyond normal wear and tear. Auto lease protection covers repair of dings, dents, scratches and stone chips that occur during the term of the lease.

4. Stay within the mileage limit. The best way to avoid having to pay for excess mileage is to take the time to estimate how much you will drive the car, including any weekend and holiday use, before you sign the lease. Then purchase extra miles up front. Typically, it is less expensive to do this than to pay extra mileage at the tail end of a lease. If you have really high mileage fees, consider selling the car yourself rather than paying the penalty.

5. Treat the car like it was your own. Elaine Littwer, legislative coordinator of the National Vehicle Leasing Association, says that it s important for consumers to understand that damage reduces the resale value of a vehicle. The 'I don't own it and I don't care' attitude ends up costing them money.

6. Have the vehicle washed and detailed on a regular basis. Maintaining the vehicle s appearance conveys that it has been well cared for.

7. Make sure the vehicle is serviced at the required intervals. Keep all maintenance records to provide proof of service and repairs.

8. Document the condition of the car. Research by Tom Incantalupo of Newsday recommends that, just before turning the car in, lessees take clear photos of the interior and exterior, including the odometer, for their own records should a dispute arise over mileage driven or whether specific damages are excessive - and also to protect themselves against damages that occur after the car was turned in.

9. Have the vehicle serviced just before you turn it in. This will ensure that it has no major problems and will provide a final third-party record of condition.

10. Any dents should be removed by a body shop rather than turning the car in with the damage. Repair charges covered by lease protection or paid privately are not subject to some of the expensive mark-ups charged by leasing companies.

Following these simple steps and Investing a little time and money during the course of your lease can ensure your peace of mind and protect your bank account when your leased car s Judgment Day arrives.

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6 Tips When You Buy A Used Car

Purchasing a used car could be a herculean task if you do not know the right steps to take. It certainly is very dangerous to purchase a used car when you're not well informed. You might purchase a big trouble that could milk your wallet dry. For example, there are many Arizona used cars available with various used auto dealers in Phoenix Arizona. You never simply jump into purchasing any of such used cars. There are always essential methods you have to engage. Talked about here are the essential ones:

* Decide on the Car Type You Need

You do not simply start out to purchase a used car without getting a specific brand in mind. You might end up wasting your time in the procedure. You have to choose the particular car type you would like. This can help you to limit your choice while you look for the right vehicle.

* Hunt for used Car

Once you have selected the type of used car you want, the next strategy is to go out to search for it. It is important you purchase just from certified used car dealers. If you're searching for the car in Arizona, there are many used car dealerships in Phoenix AZ that may be of help. You just need to take out time for you to look for them. You can search for used car dealers around your area. You can additionally search online for trustworthy used car dealers. Most of them now have their web sites. In any situation, searching online will not be your last resort. You'll still require to check out the car dealership physically in order to confirm the information you collect online. When you're through with your search, you need to select a trustworthy used car dealer to work with.

* Start Negotiation with the correct dealer

Once you have selected a used car dealer, the next technique you will engage is to start the negotiation procedure. You need a sense of the used car's market value prior to you make a deal with the dealer. You may bargain the price of the car as well as other required info needed. You need to interact vital negotiation techniques if you truly want to save a lot when purchasing the car. You have to set your mind to be calm as you bargain. Simply try to be in full control of the bargaining process.

* Think about warranty as well as legal issues

It is important you think about the problem of warranty as well as other legal matters when bargaining with a used car dealer. This is really essential prior to going ahead to commit any cash. You have to take out time to go through the terms and conditions that could apply as you become set to purchase the car.

* Check the Used Car

Before you decide to think of spending money on the used car, you need to test drive it accordingly. You have to check the mileage, engine, as well as other required elements. It's usually essential you go to the car dealership with a trustworthy car mechanic. He will very carefully check the car after which proceed to let you know what next to do.

* Pay For the Car

When you are through with each and every other consideration, you can proceed to pay for the car. You may make use of a car loan if you do not have sufficient money.

In all of the, there's usually the need to exercise patience when searching for a used car to buy. If you are seeking Arizona used cars, you have to take out time to make proper queries. There are many used car dealers in Phoenix AZ that may sell the best used cars. You could contact them for more info.

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3 Reasons You Should Always Buy Factory Replacement Parts for Your Car

When it is time to service your car, you often have a choice between using Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts, which are cheaper variations of the parts that manufacturer's design specifically for your model of car. Which should you choose? The OEM parts.

But what is so wrong with aftermarket parts? They are cheaper and there is a large variety to choose from. While it may seem fine that there is a lot to choose from, the quality can vary greatly and that means having difficulty finding the one part that is even remotely close to the quality of the manufacturer's part. There is also the fact that there may be no warranty and this could mean having to prematurely replace the part if it breaks before it should.

Factory Replacement Parts

OEM parts match what is in your vehicle, which means it is made for yours and no other. Because of this, it is easier to choose your part. You are not going to feel overwhelmed by a selection of parts with different levels of quality. It is true that OEM Toyota parts are more expensive than aftermarket parts, but the risk of having to replace the parts prematurely is reduced significantly.

Other advantages include:

Durability Many vehicles go well over 100,000 miles before their parts begin to wear or break. This is a testament to the durability of the original parts within the vehicle and factory replacement parts are equal in durability.

Warranty If the part would break prematurely or not function correctly, it is backed by a warranty. This warranty takes care of the replacement of the part so that you don't have to pay for something that is not your fault. With aftermarket parts, you are liable for part replacement even if the part is defective.

Adherence to manufacturer's standards The companies that make aftermarket parts adhere to their own standards. Factory replacement parts adhere to the same standards that were followed when the original parts to the vehicle were made. This means that the part will function the same way as the one that is being replaced.

Overall, the cost of an OEM part is worth the extra amount over an aftermarket part in order to have the reassurance that the part will operate exactly as it should. If it doesn't, then you do not have to pay for it, the manufacturer does.

Requesting OEM Parts

If you do not go to the dealership to have your car serviced, be sure to specify to the mechanic that you want OEM parts rather than aftermarket parts. Some mechanics assume that the owner of the vehicle is not going to care what part is used as long as it works and is affordable. They may have a certain brand that they work with because they have had no problems with it. However, sometimes when someone has a part break prematurely, they don't return to that mechanic because that is where they place the fault. In other words, it may not be 100 percent known what the failure rate is. By requesting an OEM part, you know that you are getting high quality that will last a long time.

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