4 Things to Do before Buying a Car

It is great to know that you are now ready to buy a car! The bad: you don’t even know where to begin. You may have a specific car in mind, but it doesn’t end there. Vehicle reviews, stats on reliability overtime, information on the cost of vehicle, and even customer reviews of car dealerships are all important in the process of buying a used car.

Here is some advice from a car dealership in Indianapolis:

Do your homework

Ask around about the suitable car that will fit your needs, your budget, performance requirements, and overall budget. If you have your heart set on a specific model before walking in to a car dealership, that may save time. It will also avoid the risk of being talked into the wrong vehicle.

Consider your lifestyle

Do you have kids, or starting a family soon? Do you find yourself occasionally traveling? Focus on a few questions to narrow down your needs. Compare economy, cargo, and distances that your car will cover.

Call ahead

If you’ve been comparing car models in car dealerships, you already have a shortlist of used cars that you want to buy. Always call ahead and ask about availability of the car before closing a deal.

Get your car loan pre-approved

Before taking another step in a car lot, visit your bank and get yourself pre-approved for a car loan. At Fletcher Chrysler Indianapolis car dealership, you can get pre-approved instantly.

Buying a used car should never be an impulse buy. Do you research, know what you want, and know how much you can spend. 

What Type of Car are You?

Each person has a preference for picking their own car. Whether it is based on function and durability, the type of car you choose says something about your personality. Most people perceive owning a car as a necessity, some suggests that it is a status symbol. So, what type of car fits your personality?

Small car/Hatchback

A small car suggests that you are practical and seek value for money. Small cars give better fuel economy; they’re convenient to park and easy to drive. It also suggests that you are someone who seeks status.

Mid-size Sedan

A mid-size sedan could mean that you have a family. You opted for the car that gives extra space for you and your family. Mid-size cars suggest that you enjoy the value of your money and freedom with company around.

Luxury Cars

This is the type of car that people with power and high status drive. They have a stable career and tend to burn a lot of miles.

SUVs/MUVs/Pick-up trucks

Driving an SUV means that you are adventurous and you enjoy being with some company. This type of vehicle is often the choice of people below 40 years old and enjoy a hard day’s work.

Did we get it right?

If you’re looking for used cars to match your personality, visit Fletcher-Chrysler car dealership in Franklin, Indianapolis. http://www.fletcherchrysler.com/

How to Maintain a Used Car

People don’t realize that maintaining a used car is just the same as maintaining a brand new one. If you have purchased your used car from a reputable car dealership such as Fletcher Chrysler in Indianapolis, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about. You won’t have to go to through anything other than regular car maintenance.

Regular car maintenance is also called preventive maintenance. Your used car from Fletcher Chrysler needs to be happy too. The tips that you are about to learn ensure that you save yourself from spending for repairs in the future. This guide will help you keep your ride healthy.

Do your own inspection.

This may be a given, but this still needs to be stressed. Periodically, do an overall assessment of your car. Check your lights if all are working. Make sure your tires have enough air pressure to save you money and better mileage. The most crucial elements that need to be checked are the fluids. Pull out gauges and dipsticks and read your tank levels diligently and have them changed when needed. See to it that your power steering, coolant, antifreeze, wiper fluid, and oil are enough to ensure that the engine will work properly.

Replace parts and accessories when necessary.

All your car’s parts and accessories should be in fair condition to ensure you and your family’s safety on the road. For instance, have your cabin air filter and engine air filter changed for smooth car operations.

Almost all preventive measures are easy to remember. Most of your car’s need are simple enough and you can do it on your own. Don’t hesitate to call for professional help if you think you can’t do it yourself. Also, if you think that you need a new ride, you can always call Fletcher Chrysler to find you one that suits your needs.

It’s Time to Buy a Car

Are you tired of your old ride and have you been wanting to buy a new one for a long time now? Well, the good news is that now is the time to head to a reputable car dealership to put those savings down. In January of this year, the new car sales rose 14 % higher than the previous year. If the new cars industry is making waves, it only means one thing: now is the time to buy a used vehicle.

As new cars are released in the market, the supply for used cars increase. This means car dealerships will offer good deals. Without a doubt, these used cars will be in good shape, but in lower prices as new car shoppers trade in their old ones. 

Now is your opportunity to get yourself a treat because both fuel prices and used car prices are down. Grab the chance while you still can. You have a wide range of used cars to choose from at Fletcher Chrysler. We have a great selection of SUVs and trucks and fuel-efficient vehicles if you prefer a smaller car. Get your money’s full worth and flaunt a new ride. Visit out Indianapolis car dealership to experience a topnotch car dealership service.

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.

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.

Why Buy a Used Car?

The days when secondhand cars meant trouble are over. Today, buying a secondhand one is a great way to save money and get a better car for less.

 

Today’s new cars and used cars are simply made even better. Manufacturers have improved the overall quality and durability of their cars, and opting for used cars is a valid option. When properly maintained used cars can surpass a hundred thousand miles without a major overhaul, the savings just become more noticeable. While used ones are more reliable now, repair and maintenance costs are still important considerations. Even a reliable vehicle can have problems because it might have been abused, damaged, or neglected by the previous owner. Make sure that the vehicle is thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic, so you can protect yourself from possible problems in the future.

New cars look really good and smell great, but how much are those really worth? If you look at the sale price and considered the total cost of buying new, you can get an idea of how much you are really paying to be the first owner. But if you think about the initial price over the long-term costs, you might consider buying yourself a used car that’s in really good condition. If you’re now ready to buy, visit Fletcher Chrysler now for the finest selection of used cars.

How to Pick Car Insurance in Indiana

In Indiana, you must carry a certain amount of liability insurance in order to legally operate a vehicle. If you are found to be driving without having met this requirement, your driver’s license can be immediately suspended. When you are purchasing an Indiana auto insurance policy, remember that the minimum coverage might not be adequately cover your bills in the event of an accident. You might consider purchasing additional coverage types for further protection. Most car insurance companies will offer the following types of coverage:

• Comprehensive – pays for damages to your vehicle caused by incidents other than car accidents, such as vandalism, theft, or fire damage.

• Collision – covers costs to your vehicle when you’ve been in a collision with another car or object.

• Medical payments coverage – covers accident-related medical or funeral costs of any covered drivers or passengers without taking fault into consideration.

• Emergency roadside service. • Customized parts and equipment.

If you find that you’re unable to secure a car insurance policy in Indiana through the open market because of your ‘high-risk’ status, you do still have option. Protect yourself and your car with an auto insurance policy when you buy used cars or brand new cars in Fletcher Chrysler.

For further assistance, visit Fletcher Chrysler. http://www.fletcherchrysler.com/index.htm

Preparing for Road Emergencies

Winter is intertwined with the holiday season. Whether you decided to stay inside your house to celebrate the festive holiday with your family or drive away and celebrate at a different place, winter will have a part to play in your holiday vacation. If you decided to take the whole family on a trip either to go skiing or down south for the sun, you can never know what will happen while you are on the road. Traveling this winter brings a few extra obstacles and requires drivers to exert more effort in driving. Preparation to face these emergencies is always a must before leaving your home.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Bringing an extra bottle or two of windshield washer fluid won’t hurt. Visibility is an essential part of driving in snowy weather so getting any obstructive frost off your field of vision is a must. Also, make sure that your washer fluid can stand sub-zero temperatures.

Stock Up on Your Winter Weapons

Facing winter can give you and your car some trouble, whether it’s a brand new car or a used car. Do not forget to put your winter must-haves like ice scrapers, wiper fluid and jumper cables in your bag.

Pack up Your Emergency Kit

Because winter is an unpredictable season, even a car that is in tip-top shape may suffer from unexpected emergencies such as snow storms. Bring a shovel for snow digging and a first aid kit for injuries.

Preparing for Your Holiday Road Trip

It’s that time of the year again. The holiday season brings froth the spirit of giving and the urge to enjoy the company of your loved ones. Holiday vacation does not only mean that you have to stay inside your home and wait for spring to come. Traveling and going on a vacation with the family is always a good option. You can enjoy the wintery season by going on ski trips or follow the sunshine by driving all the way down south of the country. But a key to a great road trip is being prepared. With the winter season, you will face plenty of extra problems on the road. Brand new or used cars both need to be prepared to face the cold season. Here are some tips on how to prepare your car:

Tune-Up

It’s advisable for car owners to make sure that your car is in tip top shape before the arrival of the winter season. The road will get icy and slippery. A good mechanic will give your car a check-up and see that your car is leak-free and your belts and hoses are in good shape before you hit the road. Asking for an oil change does not hurt as well.

Battery Check

Get your battery load-tested, especially if you have a used car. Holding a charge will be difficult for your battery in cold weather, and a weak battery in low temperatures is a big problem.

Tire Change

It’s the time of year for snow tires. If you are headed to an area that requires extra traction, such as mountains, you can bring some tire chains in case you need some extra grip in navigating the heavy snow. However, not all tire chains are permitted in all provinces, so check your reference first.

Take a Look at the Coolant

In order to avoid damageto your engine and to keep the heat from conking out, always make sure that you have enough coolant in your car.

Tips to Keep Your Car Running Longer

Buying a car is the second biggest purchase an adult can make, next only to a house. This means that keeping your car, whether they are new or used cars, in tip top shape for years to come should be everyone’s priority. A car is after all an expensive investment on wheels. If done properly and religiously over the years, any car can last for as long as a lifetime. Keeping your car in running shape is hard work, but in the long run, when a car has lasted years longer than expected, you will know that it was worth it. 

Checking Regularly

It’s a basic fact, regular car checkups is imperative for any vehicle. You will be able to detect any issues before it becomes a hazard on the road. Some of the typical things you should get checked on a regular basis are as follows:

• The Oil. It keeps the vehicle running smoothly, without the right oil level a car will not be able to function at all. Regular oil change is a basic car maintenance procedure.

• Car Brakes. No one wants to hear screeching sounds from old brake pads. Getting them checked by a pro routinely keeps your car safe on the road.

• The Alignment. A car that is not properly aligned will impact your driving as it affects the way your steering wheel reacts. Be sure to have a professional have a look once in a while.

• Tire Pressure. Checking the pressure is easy and can prevent flat tires or other road accidents. Don’t skip on this important up keep.

• Tire Tread. Your car’s traction on the road will depend on the treads of the tires. Wear and tears on tires that aren’t addressed can lead to a variety of accidents.

Importance of Car Maintenance

Maintaining a vehicle to make it last longer is a tedious job, but a fulfilling one. Especially when it comes to used cars, being able to make your investment last long is a big achievement. Of course, this would also depend on the type of car you purchase. Only go to a trusted car dealership for future car purchases to be sure that you get the best deals and high quality products.

The Pros of Used and New Cars

We’ve done it all. We’ve compared and contrasted used cars against new cars. This time, we’re taking a different approach and giving you a list that’s all just the advantages of both choices. Here you won’t find any cons to either choices, instead you will read about these two and all their different positive attributes.

New Car Advantages

The new car smell, that’s one of the best things about opting for a new car, but on the practical side, here’s a list of pros when you buy a new car.

• Warranty. The best thing about new cars, it that you get the warranty without the extra cost.

• Latest Gadgets and Gizmos. Technology is a beautiful thing, especially when it’s combined with the latest car model, you’ll feel like you’re cruising in spaceship.

• Safety. One of the most important things to consider while driving. New cars have updated and are held to a higher standard of safety.

• Higher Fuel Efficiency and Lower Emissions. Save money while saving the environment, new cars are friendlier to the pocket when it comes to fueling up. Their compatibility with new diesels means you get to help the environment while still driving in comfort and style.

Used Car Advantages

Used cars are a popular option for a lot of people nowadays. With these advantages, it’s not even a surprise that more and more people are open to buying a used car, instead of a new one.

• Price. The first and best thing about choosing a used car is the price. It’s cheaper and there’s more room for negotiations.

• Insurance Costs. The rate of car insurance is affect by the age of the car. Used car insurance tends to be cheaper and you won’t get that shock of costly payments.

• Choice. The option of customized cars are wider. Some models and designs that are no longer being manufactured can still be found in used car dealerships.

The main thing to remember when purchasing a car, used or new it to find a car dealership that you can trust. One that is passionate in bringing you and your dream car together. Either way you decide, both options have their advantages, so happy car shopping!

Tips on Deciding if You Should Buy a New or Used Car

One of the biggest challenges customers come across when they’re deciding to purchase a car is the age old question: “Used or new car?” If you’re also asking yourself this question, then you are in luck because we’ll give you a quick review of the basics when it comes to making a final decision. Just like every decision you have to make, you have to consider the pros and cons of each side. Buying a car is after all, one of the major purchases you will make in your lifetime, second only to a house.

3 Important Questions to Ask Yourself

Take the time to really think over the decision you’re about to make. You wouldn’t want to regret an investment as big as a buying a car. Here are 3 questions you should take the time to think about:

1.) Can you really afford a new car?

• If you have a good credit score and you are confident enough in making the down payment and following payments after, a new car is a good option for you.

2.) Will you be able to handle the maintenance of a used car?

• It’s safe to assume that when opting for a used car, you will have to deal with repairs and maintenance will be more troublesome compared to a new car.

3.) Are warranties important to you?

• Used cars, more often than not do not come with a warranty, which means you have to shoulder the rest of the follow up shop repairs.

Make a Wise Decision

If these questions didn’t bring you any closer to a decision, the best thing to do is to visit a credited and reputable car dealership. They will be able to assist you in finding the right car. Whether it’s new or old, your first car or just replacing an old one, making an informed decision is the best way to go about it.

How to Spot-Check a Used Car

Practicality is now the priority when it comes to purchasing necessities. People these days prefer to buy pre-owned products because they’ve realized that they can get the same value for a more reasonable price. It’s not only limited to pre-owned clothes and gadgets such phones and laptops; people also pick used cars over brand new ones. There are endless reasons why they do, and they are very promising. If you’re planning to do the same thing, here are some tips on how to avoid buying a lemon.

Know what you want then research

The first step is to know what you want. If you’re single, you might be looking for a classic sedan; if you’re not, perhaps you want an SUV for a family of five. Determine your needs so you can choose the perfect car. Ask your friends and family for their opinion and go online to find articles on the specifications and features of the vehicle. You can also read customer reviews that discuss the strong and weak points of the car. Make time to do this because sufficient background information about your preferred vehicle will be very helpful in the next step.

Find a reputable car dealer

Buying a car isn’t like grocery shopping. You need more than just a cart and a grocery list. To get your money’s worth, you have to contact a car dealer. There are lots of car dealers in Indianapolis, but there’s no match for the reliability of Fletcher Chrysler. For 25 years, they have been providing clients the top-notch accommodation, honest service, and the reasonable price that they deserve. With a reputable car dealer, you don’t only get the assistance that you need, but you also become open to a wide range of financing options.

Do a quick overview

Once you’ve found your ideal car, the next step to do is to have a quick overview from the interiors to the exteriors to the legalities. If you’ve contacted a car dealer, they will take care of this as this part requires a mechanic. It includes checking the paint, windshield, tires, body panels, locks, and air conditioners. The mechanic should also do a thorough inspection of hoses, repaired parts, battery terminals, cables, engine oil level, and transmission fluid. Last but not the least, the mileage, car service history, licenses, and insurance should be checked too.

Go on a test drive

The last step is to get a feel for the car. Adjust the seat, familiarize yourself with the controls, and look at the mirrors. This will confirm if the car truly fits you and your needs. Take a 20-30 minute drive so that the vehicle is fully warmed up. Within this period, problems become more noticeable. Spot-checking a used car can be quite a hassle--that is, when you do it on your own. When you’re with a great car dealer, it will definitely be a breeze. Before you know it, you’re out on the streets, rolling your windows down, and breathing a sigh of relief knowing that you’ve made the right decision.

Used Cars over New Ones

It takes a long time before one can finally decide that he needs a new car, and even more time to decide what car to buy. So many factors are involved before one can lay down all the pros and cons and the options for all aspects of purchasing a new vehicle. The decision-making is quite daunting because though it is a necessity, it is also a big investment. But at the end of the day, you have to make a decision that will be worth every penny you shell out. This is why most people choose to purchase used cars instead of new ones nowadays. Here are some reasons why:

Affordability that comes with good value

In a previous blog posting, we have mentioned that the best thing about getting a used vehicle is being able to negotiate its price. And it is true: as long as you are a smart buyer, you will definitely get the value that you deserve by getting a lower price. The first three years after a car was purchased, it loses approximately 40% its value. But the upside is that the car has already gone through its initial depreciation. So if you plan to sell it after quite some time, you will be able to put in the market with the same price you bought it, given that it is well maintained.

Certified and Reliable

Buying a used car entitles you to an extended warranty and a problem-free contract. Because it is pre-owned, it has been already properly tested. Whatever problems it might have had in the beginning should already have been addressed by the previous owner. Also, classic cars are more reliable than today’s new models. They are made from sturdier and higher quality materials, unlike those which are made commercially today.

Peace of Mind

Owning a used car also gives you less stress. Since it is an older model, there is a smaller chance of it getting stolen, which also makes you more at ease driving it down the road or leaving it in unfamiliar public places. If you are still not sure about your options, you can talk to a reputable car dealer. Here in Indiana, Fletcher Chrysler is one to recommend. With them, you can find a car that will fit your needs and your budget. The gruelling decision making will be worth it.

All the Wonders of Used Cars

Every person has that same genuine feeling when getting their own car. Cars symbolize one’s independence and financial stability. It has become a necessity nowadays due to the strong emergence of globalization and modernization. But there are times when the budget is not enough to buy new cars and would resort to buying used cars. However, owning a used car doesn’t have that much difference compared to having a brand new car.

Contrary to what most people think about used cars, buying used cars also has its perks and advantages. Don’t think that buying a used car will limit your experience of driving. For one, the price of a used car is far cheaper compared to that of a brand new car. Obviously, a second-hand car would have lower price tag due to it being, well, used. And to that, you could expect that the car you’re going to buy would have less depreciation as well. Think of it this way: you could lay your own hands on a 2007 Porsche for the price of a 2011 Honda. It’s a win-win situation. 

Another thing you can get from buying used cars is the dealership. Looking for a used car is not done through the posh-car displays in malls or high-end establishments—you go to dealers. Dealers can be found anywhere: on the internet, newspaper ads and through recommendations and word of mouth.

With dealers, you can guarantee that the price is not fixed—this may either work for you or against you. However, there’s one secret weapon that you can use to this: negotiation. Negotiating is your advantage in buying used cars which you can’t do on buying new cars. In the market, new cars will always have a fixed price, unlike used cars. With negotiation, you can get the upper-hand of the deal. Just state your concerns beforehand and always be the one asserting in the conversation.

Always remember that not all used cars are of that of a low quality, who knows, from the wide range of used cars you see, you may find you diamond in the rough.

A Brief Guide to Purchasing Used Cars for First-time Teenage Drivers

So your teenage son finally turned 16 and is now eligible for getting his driver’s license. As you can no longer lend him your four-year-old Chrysler Sebring because of big changes in your work schedule, it’s only fair to help him out so he can get his own car. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: 

 

Consider a used car instead of a new one.

While your son may have a summer job at the neighborhood diner and you’re willing to help out a bit with the expenses, financially speaking, a new car is a stretch at this time. Thus, look into the options of used cars instead as they are more affordable than new cars. Plus, used cars cost less to insure, something that your teen can handle on his own.

Look into sedans.

When car-shopping for their teens, some parents go for the bulkiest vehicle they can find, like an SUV, believing that this will ensure safety. However, heavy vehicles tend to roll over in cases of collision, and it may be a good idea to look into sedans instead. Sedans like the Chrysler 2012 300 LTD are big enough to protect a driver and spacious enough to seat teenage friends to go to the movies or watch sports games.

Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle.

So your son’s safety won’t be compromised while on the road, have a mechanic ]inspect the used car before you sign any purchasing agreement. A mechanic won’t only examine the car’s current condition but also what the car will probably need in a few years’ time. If the car dealer refuses to bring in your own mechanic, consider that as a red flag.

Getting first-time teenage drivers their first vehicle is a bit more complex than getting your own car. With teenagers only being able to hold part-time jobs, they face rigorous financial limitations, putting the option of new cars out of their budget range. Fortunately, parents like you can help them purchase a financially sensible but quality used car.