Car Care
Wednesday, May 22, 2013 • A Special Supplement To The Daily Dispatch
2013
Auto Connection Service Center 57 North Wind Lane • Henderson (252)
492-7295
(ext. 100, 101 or 108)
Don’t let this happen to you!
No matter where you intend on traveling this year, let us guarantee you get there without any problems! Here are the deals for this summer
Air Conditioning Service
Evacuation and Recharge
$
4995
Improves night visibility
and introducing the
Open Road Package Pre-travel inspection including checks for
• Condition of battery, belts, hoses, tires, brakes, rotors, air and cabin filter, charging and starting system, cooling system, and wiper blades • Fluid levels/leaks • Suspension (ball joints and control arms) • Service Indicator Lights
For only*
$
2995
*Price does not include and fluids/parts, or labor needed to repair any of the above items. Only valid with coupon
Headlight Buff
$
3995
**ending 8/31/13**
Oil Change
Standard 5 qt. + Filter
Car Wash
Exterior wash, interior detail
$ 2500 2500 DON’T FORGET! $
We finance certain jobs (engine, transmission, etc.) as long as you have the title to the vehicle. Didn’t buy from us? No problem! We are open to the general public. We also sell and install tires, do quality body work, and perform Safety and Emission Inspections. Major, minor and everything in between, we can fix it all. Call for an appointment today or stop by.
We look forward to earning your business! Exit 217 - I-85 - Right off Satterwhite Point Rd. Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm
The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
3
At Auto Connection, we make driving away today easy!!!
Counterclockwise from bottom) Ricky Overby, sales manager, at ext. 102; Oscar Reyes, sales associate, at ext. 107 (habla español); and Susan Jackson, finance manager, at ext. 103, are ready to help you ‘drive away today.’
Check out this sporty 2004 Acura 3-2TL. You drive it off the lot for only $2,000 down and $350 monthly!
Take a look at this 4x4 2008 Nissan Frontier. It can be yours for only $3,000 down and $395 per month!
Auto Connection has been servicing the surrounding area for over 10 years with quality vehicles. “Buy Here, Pay Here” — that’s our approach to Simple Car Buying!! No credit? No problem! (Sorry, no active bankruptcy allowed.) Auto Connection can arrange a payment schedule that works with you — offering monthly, biweekly or weekly options. You can own your vehicle in 4 years or less! In addition, a 6-month/7,500-mile service contract is offered with most deals. Auto Connection is lo-
cated at 57 North Wind Lane, off of Satterwhite Point Road (1-85, Exit 217), in Henderson. We always have a wide
selection to choose from, so come check us out today!!!! Call us at (252) 4927295.
Anyone who clips out Diesel’s picture and brings it into the dealership will receive $100 off their required down payment. (This offer expires Aug. 31, 2013.)
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Car Care ’13
The Daily Dispatch
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Reduce fuel consumption in order to save money and help the environment Reducing fuel costs is foremost on the minds of many drivers. Myriad costs are associated with owning an automobile, many of which are within a driver’s control. For instance, safe drivers are likely to spend less on auto insurance than drivers with a history of traffic violations or accidents, while drivers who purchase a vehicle with a high safety rating will likely spend less to insure that vehicle than they would a sports car. One of the costs associated with driving that some drivers may mistakenly feel is beyond their control is the cost of fuel. Drivers might not be able to control the price at the pump, but there are many ways drivers can spend less on fuel, helping them save money and helping the environment along the way.
Emphasizing efficiency
Making a vehicle more efficient is a great way to save money at the pump. But drivers don’t need to get under the hood or have a mechanic’s understanding of automobiles to make their cars more efficient. In fact, a few minor adjustments is all it takes to make a car more efficient and save drivers, regardless of their mechanical inclinations, money at the filling station. • Adequately inflate tires. Tires that are not
gas mileage. Only purchase the fuel the owner’s manual recommends. For many new vehicles, that means 87-octane, or “regular,” fuel, which is typically the most affordable.
properly inflated increase drag on a vehicle, which then consumes more fuel to operate at full capacity. Check the driver’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, and check the tire pressure frequently to ensure your car isn’t working harder than it needs to be. • Clear out the trunk. A car filled with clutter is carrying unnecessary weight, making it harder for the car to accelerate and consuming more fuel than it should be. Clear out the trunk and anything inside the vehicle that you don’t need. • Open the windows at lower speeds. Air conditioning consumes fuel fast, and many auto experts suggest rolling down the windows when driving at lower speeds. When you begin driving a little faster, roll the windows up and turn on the air conditioning to reduce drag.
Spend wisely
How you’re spending at the pump can also help you reduce fuel consumption and save you money. • Fill ‘er up! Many drivers avoid filling up their tank when visiting the gas station for fear that filling up the tank makes the car heavier, decreasing the vehicle’s fuel efficiency as a result. While that may be true, drivers who don’t fill up make more trips to the filling station, and those trips can
Drive wisely
Taking steps to reduce fuel consumption can benefit the environment and your bottom line.
waste fuel. In addition, when the gas cap is removed from your vehicle, vaporized gas escapes from the tank, so opening the cap more frequently allows more vaporized gas to escape. • Pay for gas with a card that rewards you with cash for making purchases. While using a cash-back credit card won’t reduce your fuel consumption, it will earn
you some money back on your fuel purchases. • Don’t pay more for fuel your car won’t utilize. Some drivers might feel as though putting a high-octane fuel in their vehicles will improve the vehicle’s performance. But that’s not the case. A high-octane fuel in a car that’s built for a lowoctane fuel won’t improve the car’s performance or its
Driving habits can also impact how much fuel you’re consuming. Driving habits can be hard to change, but drivers who start driving with a mind toward safety and reducing fuel consumption can take steps to do just that. • Don’t accelerate too quickly. Rapid acceleration consumes more fuel. When accelerating, do so gradually. You’ll still get to the same place, but you’ll get there with a lot more fuel. • Don’t speed. Highway speeds more than 60 miles per hour significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Estimates suggest a car traveling at 60 miles per hour uses 20 percent less fuel than a vehicle traveling at 75 miles per hour. Toxic emissions, including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, also increase when vehicles travel more than 60 miles per hour. Reducing fuel consumption is a goal for environmentalists and drivers alike. There are several ways drivers can help their vehicle consume less fuel and benefit the planet at the same time.
Car Care ’13
The Daily Dispatch
5
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Simple steps to follow for a clean interior
Much like curb appeal improving the chances of a sale on your home, having a car that is presented well inside and out may boost the amount of money and potential of a resale on your vehicle. Even vehicle owners who don’t anticipate selling their vehicles in the near future should maintain the vehicles to ensure they are safe and sound. After home and work, a car is where many people spend most of their time. As a result, a vehicle can easily become soiled, scratched or overrun with clutter. Maintaining the interior of your vehicle need not take much time or effort, but it should be done often enough to keep on top of the mess. Here’s how to start.
Remove clutter
The first step in cleaning the interior is to remove the excess items that may have accumulated in the car. Busy families tend to leave toys, books or clothing in their vehicles. There also may be discarded food wrappers or beverage containers. People who commute also may accumulate a number of items in their cars, including business materials. These items should be sorted through and put where they belong before tackling the rest of the cleaning work.
Vacuuming
Much of the dirt and debris that accumulates in vehicles can easily be removed with a vacuum. A shop vac will have
enough power to thoroughly clean upholstery and mats. If you do not have one, visit a self car wash. Remove the floor mats and set them on a flat surface. Thoroughly vacuum the mats to clear them of dust, dirt, food crumbs, and any other debris. Vacuum the floor of the car as well as any seat upholstery that may be a catch-all for crumbs. Using a soft-bristled vacuum attachment, you also can remove dust from the vents, speakers and the center console of your vehicle.
Console and dashboard detailing
A barely moist cloth can be used to clean the plastic components of the dashboard and
Tony’s Automotive & Body Shop
One location just wasn’t enough Tony Automotive & Body Shop has been open for 26 years. After all, he’s always loved working on automobiles. Around 21-and-a-half years into this venture, owner Tony Sanford saw how busy the shop had become and decided that one location just wasn’t going to cut it anymore. So, he decided to open a second location. But when you can’t be in two places at once, how do you make sure that things at the new shop are kept up to the standards you’ve set over the past two-plus decades? Simple: you recruit your brother. So now with brother Randy (Gar-
rett) holding down the fort at the site, Sanford is able to offer his customers quick, convenient and quality service — the kind he believes they deserve. Oh, then there’s variety on top of all that. Tony’s offers everything except upholstery. This includes: a machine shop, a transmission shop, complete engine rebuilding and engine dyno services. All at affordable and competitive prices. Both locations (Sanford’s original shop at 912 Carey Chapel Road and the one operated by Garrett at 2396 N. Garnett St.) are open Monday-Friday, 8-5:30 p.m.; and Saturday, from 8 a.m.-noon. Stop on by!
consoles of the vehicle. The goal is to wipe away any dust and any minor stains or sticky areas without saturating important electrical components. It is always better to spray polish or cleaning agents on your cloth than directly on the dashboard. In hard-to-reach-areas, consider using a soft-bristled paintbrush or cotton swabs to clean in crevices. Wipe down everything with a dry cloth or towel afterward.
Spot cleaning
Spills and stains do occur in vehicles, just as they do elsewhere. Cleaning these stains may require a little elbow grease and a cleansing agent. Most automotive supply stores will sell an upholstery cleaner designed
for car interiors. You also can use a mixture of laundry detergent and water applied with a slightly damp rag or sponge. Go over each area that is soiled so you can devote adequate time to each stain. The same process can be used on the vehicle’s carpeting. Use a brush to really clean heavily soiled areas. Leather upholstery can be more delicate than cloth upholstery. When cleaning a leather interior, use only products that are designed specifically for leather so as to avoid damaging the interior.
Windows
Having clean windows is essential to driving safely. Cleansee
CLEAN INTERIOR/PAGE 12
Tony’s Automotive & Body Shop EVERYTHING BUT UPHOLSTERY 2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!
912 Carey Chapel Rd. 252-492-9993 2396 N. Garnett St. 252-438-2927 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 am-5:30 pm Sat. 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
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THE DAILY DISPATCH
CAR CARE ’13
WEDNESDAY, MAY 22, 2013
‘Shooting’ for ‘perfection’ at Collins Collision Repair Center
Collins Collision Repair Center, located at 3688 Raleigh Road in Henderson, was established by Charles Collins in 2005. “We don’t care how hard it is to do: we want to do it right,” said Collins about the quality of the work done at his shop.
Known throughout Vance County as a body man for more than 50 years, Charles Collins opened Collins Collision Repair Center back in 2006. During his two-year stint in the U.S. Army (’65-’67), an officer said to Collins one time: “If you shoot for anything less than perfection, that’s what you’re gonna get.” He has applied that line of thinking to his business from the outset. Employees a the center make it a point to emphasize quality, not quantity, of work. They
Does Your
BodyNeed
SomeWork?
s n i l l o C
COLLISION REPAIR CENTER
strive to do what is in the best interest of their customers and their vehicles. “We don’t care how hard it is to do: we want to do it right,” said Collins. “We try to do what we do the best we can do it.” Located at 3688 Raleigh Road in Henderson, the repair shop maintains operating hours Monday-Thursday, from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Friday, from 7:30 a.m.-noon. Focusing primarily on insurance repairs, services provided by Collins Collision include
auto body repair, painting, and glass replacement. In addition to Vance County, customers who have had their vehicles serviced at the center include residents from Granville, Franklin, Warren and Wake counties, as well as Durham and southern Virginia.
@
Our Special Sections Are Featured For Free www.hendersondispatch.com Point your web browser to hendersondispatch.com/special_sections
• FREE Estimates • Auto Body Repair • Auto Glass Installed • Insurance Claims Welcomed
3688 Raleigh Rd. • Henderson 252-438-3133 Owners: Charles & Clecy Collins
The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
7
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Counting off the benefits of leasing People frequently wrestle with the decision to lease or buy a vehicle. The decision to buy or lease depends on a host of factors, including how long you plan to own the vehicle and how frequently you’re on the road. Some motorists might find leasing is better suited to their needs. Some people remain skeptical of leasing, particularly because they are paying a fee to use a car for a limited time. At the end of the lease period, you do not own the vehicle, and the money you paid toward the lease is essentially gone — unless you choose a buy-out option. But in that case it may have been less expensive to simply finance the entire time. Leasing is like renting an apartment. It provides you with what you need at the time, but you have no stake in ownership at the end of the rental period. Individuals who frequently move and want little responsibility like the freedom of renting. Those who are looking to set up a household for a long period of time often seek out a more permanent home situation. The same can be said for leasing a vehicle. If you prefer to drive a new vehicle every few years and don’t want the hassle of mainte-
nance as the vehicle ages, then leasing is the way to go. When the car is returned to the dealer after a certain period of time, you have no other responsibilities to that car or truck. Furthermore, some dealerships often offer incentives to those consumers who turn in an expired lease and immediately sign up again. Cost is another factor to consider. Leasing is typically less expensive in the short term than purchasing. If required, down payments can be very low, while monthly lease payments tend to
be lower than financing payments. Individuals who like the security a new car provides but may not have the funds to buy a new car often turn to leasing. Leasing payments can sometimes be $100 less than financing the same vehicle or one with fewer options. Leasing also can save money on warranties. Many leases are for 36 months, a period that typically coincides with the factory bumperto-bumper warranty period. This means you do not have to purchase an expensive extended
warranty as you might with a vehicle you’re financing to own. Drivers who spend little time in the car are often good prospects for leasing. That’s because you will have to maintain a certain range of miles used within the lease term. Should you exceed the miles at the end of the term, you will be required to pay a designated rate on those extra miles, which can quickly add up. You also will have to pay for any extraneous wear-andtear on the vehicle that goes beyond normal use. Those who only use
vehicles for short jaunts here and there may find leasing advantageous. Many people who are looking for reliable
cars for the short term lean toward leasing as the primary method for driving a new, optionsrich vehicle.
Genuine Toyota
Day at the Auto Spa
Multi point inspection it is a good practice to keep your vehicle looking and performing well and keeping you on the road. •Oil & Filter Change •Tire Rotation •Multipoint Inspection •Hand Wash & Vacuum
$
59
95
Schedule Your Appointment Today
For many people leasing is a smart and affordable way to get a new car.
TOYOTA OF HENDERSON 205 Toyota Lane (252) 438-2182 www.toyotaofhenderson.com
Oxford Car & Truck Buy Used, Spend Less, S av e More! Low Monthly Pay ments!
2005 Hummer H2
2008 Honda Civic
* Only 77,000 miles, Automatic
* 3rd Row, Sunroof $
3 6 0 /m o
$
2008 Mercedes E320 CDi
2 3 4 /m o
2009 Chevrolet HHR
*1 owner, Clean Carfax, 70,000 miles
* 1 Owner, Automatic, 30+ mpg
2002 Chevrolet Corvette
$
3 5 8 /m o
* New Michelins, Automatic, Removable Roof $
3 0 6 /m o
2007 Toyota Tacoma 4WD
2008 Mercedes CLK 320
* 1 owner, Clean Carfax! $
3 4 2 /m o
1995 Lincoln Towncar
*New Mercedes Trade, Super Sharp $
3 6 0 /m o
2001 Mercedes E320
* 1 Owner, 47,000 Actual Miles
* 1 Owner, 57,000 miles
2011 Toyota Camry SE
2012 Chrysler 300 Limited
2003 BMW 330i
* 1 Owner, 40,000 miles
* 1 Owner, 29,000 miles
$
$
17 9 /m o
3 2 4 /m o
$
$
6,950
3 6 6 /m o
$
8,950
* Leather, Automatic, only 99,000 miles
All payments are based on 3.24 % rate for 60-72 months with approved credit.
$
17 9 /m o
1010 Linden Avenue Oxford, NC 27565 • 919-692-1554
w w w.o x fordca randt r uck.com Mon. - Fri. 9:00am - 6:00 pm • Sat. 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
9
Oxford Car & Truck is eager to earn your business Oxford Car & Truck is located at 1010 Linden Ave. In operation since 2001, all vehicles are serviced and inspected prior to being sold.
Owned and operated by Eddie Caudle, Oxford Car & Truck, located at 1010 Linden Ave., has been in business in
Oxford since 2001. They offer low interest rates, affordable payments, and they make sure that all cars are
serviced and inspected before they are sold. The hours of operation are Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and
Saturday, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. They are always closed on Sunday. For an updated list of inventory, you can visit
oxfordcarandtruck.com. For more information, call (919) 692-1554 or stop by the dealership! Oxford Car & Truck
would love to earn your business! As they always say, “Buy Used, Spend Less and Save More!”
Oxford Car & Truck is open for business Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Search oxfordcarandtruck.com to view an updated list of the dealership’s inventory.
When was your last checkup? Stop in for a 27-Point Vehicle Checkup. Let our Service Specialists check your vehicle and keep it in top runnig condition. You can take advantage of these and other great service values!
Front or Rear Brake Service
99
$
95
INCLUDES: • Front or rear disc brake pad or shoe replacement with Mopar Value Line Brakes (semi-metalic) • Inspect rotor, drum and caliper (refacing/machining. Check brake fluid level) • Road-test vehicle
Lube, Oil & Filter Change
17
$
95
INCLUDES: • Engine oil replacement up to 5 qt. • Complete chassis lube • New Mopar oil filter • Fluid level inspection • Inspect CV joints and front suspension components
We hve the expert technicians, factory service information, specialized tools and genuine Mopar parts to properly service your DaimlerChrysler vehicle.
Front-Wheel Alignment
39
$ MUST PRESENT COUPON EXPIRES 7/31/13
We’re Your Service Specialists
95
INCLUDES: • Precision-set front end • Additional labor and necessary parts are extra for Ram 3500 • Shims extra
Wheel Balance & Tire Roation
29
$ MUST PRESENT COUPON EXPIRES 7/31/13
95
INCLUDES: • Remove four wheels from vehicle, balance and rotate Special wheels, specialty vehicles slightly higher.
MUST PRESENT COUPON EXPIRES 7/31/13
Free Mounting and Balancing with Purchase of 4 Tires INCLUDES:
• This offer is made by the dealer whose is solely responsible for it.
Additional charges may be applied for diesel, V-10’s, Hemi V-8, fluid disposal, semi-synthetic and synthetic oils.
MUST PRESENT COUPON EXPIRES 7/31/13
MUST PRESENT COUPON EXPIRES 7/31/13
We have over 200 name brand tires in stock: the ones that fit your vehicle BECAUSE SO MUCH IS RIDING ON YOUR TIRES®
HWY. 158 W. BY-PASS • HENDERSON
800-817-2479 • 252-438-2717
www.superiorcustomshop.com www.superiorcdj.com
The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
11
2012 DODGE RAM 1500 4x2 SLT CREW CAB MSRP $36,700
SALE PRICE $29,770 That’s $7,000 Off Plus Tax Tag and DOC Fee
2013 CHRYSLER 300S RWD
MSRP $33,990 Less Superior Discount $1,500 and $500 Fast Start Bonus Cash You Pay $31,990 Less $2,500 Consumer Cash
That’s
$29,490 FINAL PRICE
Excluding Tax Tag and DOC Fee.
2013 DODGE JOURNEY SE (From left) Call (252) 438-2717 and ask to speak to either Erick Brinkley, sales manager, and Charles Coleman, finance manager, if you’re interested in a new car or truck.
‘Superior’ service: Giving you that hometown feel Superior Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram is a place where the name speaks for itself. We have been here for nearly 15 years and we pride ourselves on superior sales, service and customer satisfaction. Our staff provide the best quality service around. We keep low overhead so that we can give great deals on new and preowned cars and trucks. As far as pricing is concerned, we are as competitive as the major markets. We believe that price doesn’t always sell a vehicle; rather, how you are treated means a great deal. We want to give you that hometown feel. Our sales staff is qualified to answer any question you may have with a no hassle, no pressure approach. So stop by today, have a coke and a smile along with some hot butter popcorn as you purchase a new car or truck from Superior CDJR in Hen-
derson. Ask for me, Erick Brinkley, or Charles Coleman at (252) 438-2717.
MSRP $23,935 Less Superior Discount $750 and $500 Fast Start Bonus Cash You Pay $22,685 Less $1,500 Consumer Cash
That’s
$21,185
FINAL PRICE
Excluding Tax Tag and DOC Fee.
2013 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SE
MSRP $25,275 Sale Price $24,275 That’s $1,000 off Less $2,500 Rebate Less $2,500 Consumer Cash
For A Final Price Of
$21,775
Excluding Tax Tag and DOC Fee.
2013 DODGE DART SXT
MSRP $22,385 Less Superior Discount $500 and $750 Fast Start Bonus Cash You Pay $22,133 Less $750 Consumer Cash
That’s
$21,383
FINAL PRICE
Excluding Tax Tag and DOC Fee.
CHRYSLER ◆ D ODGE ◆ J EEP C Taylor Hunt, service manager at Superior Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, is part of a staff dedicated to providing its customers with the best quality service around.
Superior Service - Oil Change and Specials Available.
120 US 158 Bypass West ◆ Henderson, NC 27536 (252) 438-2717 ◆ 800-817-2479 www.superiorcdj.com
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The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
Stay abreast of vehicle recall information
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
CLEAN INTERIOR FROM PAGE 5
ing the windshield and windows is relatively simple to do with a glass cleaner spray and a lint-free cloth. Use caution when cleaning the rear windshield if it has a defogger/defroster grid on the window. These wires can be damaged easily. Clean with the direction of the defroster grid lines.
Freshen the car
Place an air freshener or spray a product on the air intake vent to eradicate musty smells in the car. It also is important to replace the cabin air filter periodically, otherwise you could be breathing in dust and dander that is trapped in the filter. These are the basic steps to cleaning a car’s interior. Other detail work can be done depending on your preferences and the make of the car. Routine maintenance helps others see you have pride in your vehicle and can ensure a better return on your investment down the line if you choose to sell.
Did you know (about ‘spot deliveries’)? Information about vehicle recalls and necessary repairs can help protect drivers from injury.
Driving a new vehicle off of the sales lot can be exciting. Brand-new vehicles are supposed to be reliable and free from maintenance concerns. However, sometimes manufacturers recall a vehicle, forcing drivers to visit the auto body shop sooner than they had hoped. According to the Auto Insurance Organization, 390 million vehicles have been recalled since the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act became law in 1966. Vehicles are recalled for a variety of reasons, including poorly perform-
ing tires, faulty pieces of motor vehicle equipment and unsafe child safety seats. From 2009 to 2010, Toyota alone recalled 8.5 million cars, the single largest recall in history. It can be disconcerting to learn that your vehicle is being recalled. The uneasiness of driving a potentially dangerous vehicle coupled with the prospect of being without a car can be daunting. Vehicle manufacturers must notify consumers that a recall is in place. But sometimes a vehicle owner may not be aware that there is a recall. In
the event of large recalls, like the recent ones involving Toyota and Bridgestone Tires, the story makes the national news. But there are other ways drivers can stay current on recall information to ensure their personal safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an arm of the U.S. Department of Transportation, is a source of information on vehicle recalls. Their database dates back to 1966. The NHTSA provides information on equipment recalls, entire vehicle recalls, child
safety seat recalls, and tire recalls. There also is information on school bus recalls. Individuals can visit Recalls.gov and select the categories they want to check. To check recalls on a particular motor vehicle, select that category, enter the make and model as well as the year, and the information about any recalls will appear. Recall information can help save lives and prevent injuries. It is important to be aware of recalls to ensure the vehicle you’re driving is as safe as possible.
Men and women looking to finance the purchase of their next vehicle could potentially fall victim to a practice referred to as “spot deliveries.” Consumer advocacy groups warn that spot deliveries, in which a car is sold “on the spot” before the financing has been completed, can leave consumers with average or below average credit vulnerable to abuse. When a person wants to finance a vehicle purchase, the dealership must first find a bank to approve their loan application, a process many banks do not do on nights or weekends, when many people are inclined to shop for a vehicle. During a spot delivery, a dealership will allow the consumer to drive off the lot with the car, even though the consumer has yet to be approved for a loan. In some cases, the lender may not approve the application, forcing the consumer to return the vehicle, while other times the lender might only approve the loan with a high interest rate, one the consumer may be unwilling to pay. In addition, lenders may require a higher down payment the consumer cannot afford. To protect themselves from spot deliveries, consumers can arrange for vehicle financing on their own before visiting a dealership, or insist that the lender approve their applications before they take possession of the vehicle.
The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
13
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Some things to consider when choosing a vehicle
Buying a new automobile, be it a brand new car or a preowned vehicle, is a considerable investment. Some buyers agonize over which automobile to buy, while others tend to stick with the same make or model for years on end. Regardless of which group buyers fall into, there are some things all consumers should consider before buying their next vehicle. • Driver needs: A large sport utility vehicle might be your dream vehicle, but it might not be the most practical car to start parking in your garage. When examining your vehicle needs, ask yourself what you use the car for. Is it just a vessel to get you from point A to point B? Do you routinely use your vehicle to take your children and their teammates to and from soccer practice? Is your commute long or short? Each of these things should factor into your decision. For example, if
EZ EZ CAR CAR CARE
your commute to work is especially long, then perhaps a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle is the most practical choice. However, if you routinely carpool or use your car to get the kids to and fro, then a larger vehicle with a more roomy interior might be the best bet regardless of its fuel efficiency. • Budget: Your budget is perhaps the biggest thing to consider when shopping for a new vehicle. Many buyers intend to finance or lease a vehicle, and sites such as Edmunds can help prospective buyers estimate what their monthly car payment will be. The larger the down payment you’re able to make, the less your monthly payment will be. In addition, those who intend to finance their vehicle purchases should consider the length of their finance agreement. You might be able to finance a vehicle purchase in as little as
“Don’t Worry “Quality You Can Drive Happy”
CARE
Depend On”
1209 Dabney Drive • Henderson Mall Henderson, NC 27536
Eddie - Vice President H.L. &Ellington Janet Wheeler - Owners
Phone (252) 438-3289 Fax (252) 438-5286
Call us with all of your Car Repair Needs.
12 months or as long as 72 months. The longer your agreement, the less you will be paying each month. However, you will pay more interest the longer your agreement is and your payment is likely to be the same in the 72nd month, when the vehicle has significantly depreciated in value, as it was in the first month when the vehicle’s value was at its peak. • Lease or buy: The decision to lease or buy is something to consider. Leasing allows drivers to drive a brand new car for far less money than if they were to purchase the vehicle outright, and the terms of a lease are typically far shorter than those when buyers are financing, which allows drivers to get a new vehicle more often. Buying or financing a vehicle has its advantages as well, most notably that you will be making payments for something you’re eventually going to
own. In addition, buying or financing gives consumers more flexibility, as they’re allowed to sell the car whenever they choose without penalty, something that is not allowed under many lease agreements. In addition, there are no mileage restrictions when buying or financing, while such restrictions are typical when leasing a vehicle. • Insurance: Some vehicles are more expensive to insure than others. Insurance companies base insurance rates on a host of factors, but those vehicles that have the strongest safety records and are less likely to be stolen tend to cost less to insure. How much you will pay to insure a vehicle also depends on how you will be paying for it. Lenders typically require borrowers who are financing or leasing a vehicle to fully insure the car, which costs considerably more than basic insurance coverage that drivers who buy their
EDWARDS BODY SHOP
vehicles outright tend to choose. Weigh the costs of insuring different makes or models before making your purchase. Buying a new vehicle
requires a considerable financial investment, so buyers should weigh a host of factors before driving their next vehicle off the lot.
COMMERCIAL TIRE SERVICE TRUCK TIRES LOADER TIRES
GRADER TIRED RETREAD TIRES
ROAD SERVICE 252-492-1195
SPECIAL PRICES
FOR ALL FIRST-TIME BUYERS THE PREMIUM TIRE FOR LUXURY CARS
CARLTON “TAD” EDWARDS, Owner
Serving the area for 24 years!! N.C. Highway 39 South - P.O. Box 1289 HENDERSON, N.C. 27536 Bus. 438-7900 - FAX 438-6966
• Truck Accessories • Trailer Hitches • Body Repair & Paint Insurance Claims are Welcomed
TOYO EXTENZA AS
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Car Care ’13
The Daily Dispatch
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Things to look for on a vehicle history report A vehicle history report can be a used car buyer’s best friend. Whereas in the past buyers bought used cars and hoped for the best, today’s used car buyers can rely on a vehicle history report to tell them all about the vehicle while helping buyers make more informed decisions. When shopping for a preowned vehicle, you should always ask for a vehicle history report, regardless of whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private citizen. If the seller refuses, it’s time to look elsewhere. When a seller eagerly provides a vehicle history report, buyers should examine a few things on the report so they can be more comfortable should they ultimately purchase the vehicle. • Number of previous
owners: All vehicle history reports list how many owners a vehicle has had in the past. In general, the more owners a vehicle has had, the more risk you’re assuming as the buyer. Vehicles that tend to change hands often are less likely to have been well maintained. In addition to how many owners a car has had, look at who those owners were. Vehicles that were once owned by a rental car company, for instance, were likely not treated very well, as few people care how much abuse their rental car endures. However, a car once owned by a rental agency likely has lots of highway miles on it, and such driving is less taxing on a vehicle than city driving where the vehicle’s engine is
stopping and starting more frequently. • Specifics: Just because a seller provides you with a vehicle history report does not necessarily mean that report matches up with the vehicle you might be buying. A dishonest seller might try to pass off the history report of another vehicle of the same make and model as his own. This is done to hide a suspect vehicle history or even when thieves are selling a stolen car to an unsuspecting buyer. Check the vehicle identification number, or VIN, on the vehicle to ensure the car you’re looking at matches the car on the history report. In addition, each vehicle history report describes the car, so if the description does not match you might be hold-
ing an inaccurate report. • Location: The vehicle history report will show where the car has lived over the years. Vehicles that have spent ample time in harsh weather, such as Alaska or another region with a prolonged winter, have likely had their share of weather-related wear and tear, more so than a car driven in warmer climates. While this does not mean past owners didn’t properly maintain the car, some buyers might be wary of purchasing a vehicle that has endured too many harsh winters. • Physical appearance: Does the physical appearance of the car match up with its history report? Sometimes a vehicle owner does not report when a car has been in an accident.
Owners might do this to avoid higher insurance premiums or to mask the vehicle’s history because they intend to sell the car down the road. If a car exhibits any signs of body work that aren’t on its history report or if the car drives awkwardly but has supposedly not been in an accident, buyers should consider this a major red flag and strongly consider walking away from the vehicle and continuing their search elsewhere. A vehicle history report can calm the fears of a buyer shopping for a preowned vehicle. But even when a report is made available, buyers should still examine the report closely to ensure the vehicle is all it’s cracked up to be.
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The Daily Dispatch
Car Care ’13
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
15
Pre-owned vehicles: offering shoppers both price and value
BOBBY HOUSE
MICKEY EDWARDS
When it comes time to purchase a car, preowned vehicles are offering the value and price that many shoppers are looking for, especially as the economy continues to struggle to recover from recession. Considering that many of the used vehicles available have low mileage and are only a few years old, this can be a smart decision. Used-car pricing will almost always be lower than a new vehicle, said Bobby House of Auto Mart of Henderson. Located at 133 Raleigh Road on the corner of Raleigh Road and Dorsey Avenue in downtown Henderson, the business has been offering used vehicles for 24 years. The more economical price is a big draw to many consumers looking to save money on a vehicle, House said. New cars depreciate as soon as they are driven away from the dealership, so even a vehicle that is only a few months old
will cost less than it did brand new. Asking the right questions and building trust with customers are vital, said House. “When customers come on the lot, I start by asking what size family they have, how much space they’ll need, and what kind of gas mileage they need. Every car doesn’t fit everybody.” Auto Mart of Henderson offers full servicing for all the vehicles it sells and can even customize a car or truck by moving seats or even steering wheels to better accommodate the buyer. Oftentimes dealerships will certify the vehicles are in good condition and offer warranties that cover many of the same items one would find with a new vehicle. Auto Mart of Henderson offers warranties on all vehicles that qualify and will also provide a free CARFAX report on any vehicle, which provides a history of the vehicle and can be used to check to see if it
Located at 133 Raleigh Road on the corner of Raleigh Road and Dorsey Avenue in downtown Henderson, Auto Mart of Henderson has been offering used vehicles for 24 years. Bobby House feels that customer loyalty and trust have been the keys to his business success.
was in any major accidents or had other kinds of damage. The dealership will also connect the buyer with the previous owner when possible to further answer questions about the vehicle, if needed. Auto Mart of Henderson also offers on-lot financing and will work with any customer on financing, regardless of credit history. Buying a used vehicle is also a “green” investment for customers concerned about the environment. While a brand-new hybrid may certainly save on fuel
use, the energy needed to produce that new hybrid can be considerable. Purchasing a used car means less demand for a new one to be made. Another advantage to used vehicles is that insurance premiums may be lower. That’s because new cars usually require comprehensive insurance coverage, when a used vehicle may only require the basics. While shoppers may be scared of getting a “lemon” when they buy a used car, House said that the reputation of the dealer is the best insurance against having
a bad experience. “Buy from someone that you trust and that you know will do right by you if there are any problems,” House said. Voted “Best Used Cars” in the annual “Best of Vance County” competition for 13 out of 14 years (until 2009), followed by four consecutive years as runners-up, House feels that customer loyalty and trust have been the keys to his business success. “Everybody is looking for value for what they’re spending, and I think we offer the best value in town.” Auto Mart of Hender-
WilburT Wilkerson son can be reached by phone at (252) 438-5928. Available vehicles can also be viewed online at automartofhenderson. com.
Auto Mart of Henderson 133 Raleigh Rd • Henderson
(252) 438-5928
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