Monday, April 27, 2015

Checklist before Purchasing Used Cars

Used cars are the cheaper alternative to owning a car. These cars may come at a bargain’s price, but purchasing used cars can also be a gamble. If you don’t look closely enough and actually do a thorough check on the car before making the purchase official, you can end up driving away with a used car that will cost you an arm and a leg in future repairs.

Body Check: The Used Car Exteriors

Faded paint and small scratches on the car’s body are easily remedied with a paint job. What buyers should be looking out for are the bigger and major types of damage. Such examples are as follows:
  • Rust Damage. Rusting on the car’s body isn’t that much of a big deal, but when it starts to spread, it will be difficult to fix. Check under the wheel wells and hood to assess the extent of the damage. Be wary of rust on the engine though, this will pose as a challenge to fix.
  • Frame Damage. The frame is the foundation of the car. Everything from the doors, the engine, to the wheels relies on the frame for support. The best way to determine the state of the frame it to get in inspected by a trained mechanic. 

Deeper Digging: Checking the Interiors

If the used car has passed the exterior inspection, it’s time to dive deeper. Checking that the interior workings of the car are working properly, or are only mildly damaged can save you money. You can either walk away from the purchase and go for another car or speak to the dealer for a price reduction. Here are the important interior parts to check:

  • Hose and Belt Damage. Check to make sure that hoses and belts are free of cracks.
  • AC and Heater Problems. Sit in the car with the air turned on to see if there is a change in temperature.
  • Alignment. The best way to check a used car’s alignment is to take it out for a test drive. If the wheel seems to shake or jump while on the drive, this could indicate an alignment problem.
  • Electrical Systems. Although easy to check, the electrical system is also often overlooked. Double check if the radio, headlight, interior lights, etc. are in good working conditions.

 Deciding on purchasing a used car can save you money, but only if you purchase one from a trusted and reliable car dealership.

Friday, April 17, 2015

Safety First: Simple Road Emergency Tips

It happens to the best of us. New cars and used cars alike can sometimes break down in the middle of the road. It can put a damper on plans and become a major inconvenience for the driver and other motorists on the road. During circumstances like these, it is best to be informed and ready on how to deal with the situation. There’s no need to panic or get frustrated, if you take the necessary precautions and avoid certain situations, you and your car will be off to a repair shop in no time.


What to Do During a Road Emergency

Keeping a cool head and having grace under pressure is the number 1 priority when your car has unexpectedly broken down. Take a deep breath and follow these following steps:


  1. Locate the origin of the problem. Knowing where the problem lies in will make it easier for you to explain the problem to your mechanic. 
  2. Take note of noticeable landmarks within the area. This is important when you are giving directions to a tow truck or your local car dealership who offers repair services. 
  3. Make your location known to other motorist. Using reflectors or a bright colored piece of clothing can alter incoming vehicles to watch out. By doing this, you will lessen the chances of collisions and accidents. 
  4. Move your vehicle. If it is possible for you to move your car out of the main road, do so. 
  5. Contact help as soon as possible. Get in touch with a mechanic or a towing service immediately and stay with your vehicle until help arrives.