Fall Auto Guide 2018

2018

FALL AUTO GUIDE   

Useful tips to prepare vehicles for surviving winter Prevent breakdowns with battery care How to improve the value of your trade-in

  

Paint versus car wrap options Get the best deal on an auto loan How to detect odometer fraud

A special supplement to The Daily Republic and ADvisor

FALL AUTO ZONE

Every detail matters

October 2018

Useful tips to prepare vehicles for surviving winter

By Sam Fosness The Daily Republic With small glimpses of winter already making their way into southeastern South Dakota, the stress automobiles will face in the cold weather conditions is on the horizon.

Whether your vehicle needs a professional diagnosis before the thick of winter, there are some useful methods in preparing your car for the frigid air without having to seek a mechanic.

Darren Long, co-owner of Dale’s A-1 Transmission Service, suggests carefully diagnosing your car before the first cold snap and assessing if there are any abnormalities.

“Proper maintenance on your vehicle is always a given, but listening to your car very carefully before the first snowfall or cold spell is an important first step in the process of preparing for winter,” Long said.

By diagnosing any irregularities and abnormal sounds in the vehicle, Long said it can make the difference in a car’s ability to function throughout the entire winter.

“Only you know what your car is sup-

posed to sound like, so we can better focus on fixing the problem if we are aware of the abnormalities,” he said.

While there are some helpful do-it-yourself winterizing tips, Long suggests a transmission flush above all else before a vehicle battles the winter.

“A transmission flush changes out a percentage of your transmission fluid, which also includes a new filter,” Long added.

According to Long, in order for a transmission flush to be performed properly, it’s almost always necessary to seek a mechanic or automobile professional.

For those who try to brave the winter while being aware of any irregularities, Long said the winter has its way of weeding those individuals out, leading to further car problems that put your vehicle at risk of not making it through the winter season.

“If people notice any issues with their car throughout the summer, be sure to bring it in before the first cold snap, because we see plenty of people who experience this situation,” Long said.

Andrew Hiles, a mechanic at TMA in Mitchell, provided some additional winter

preparation tips that can help your car make it through the winter.

The first area of the automobile Hiles suggests assessing is the tires. With rock salt and icy roads that drivers experience in the Mitchell area, winter takes its toll on tires.

“Make sure to check your tire pressures and tire conditions, since the cold air puts a lot of stress on tires,” said Hiles, who has been working on automobiles at TMA for nine years. “Investing in some winter tires is always a bonus, because you need good tread to drive on icy, snowy roads.”

One area of the car that Hiles stresses checking throughout winter and before: Belts and hoses.

“Belts and hose issues can lead to serious car problems, which can leave you stranded in the dead of winter,” Hiles added.

While Hiles suggests seeking a mechanic for checking these important functions of a car, he provided some helpful tips that you can do yourself.

Properly checking the oil and making

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FALL AUTO ZONE 3

WINTER From Page 2

sure it’s changed is something Hiles feels can go overlooked in preparing for winter.

“You can’t forget about checking your oil and making sure it’s recently changed prior to entering any cold conditions that winter brings,” Hiles said.

According to Hiles, regularly checking the oil is imperative because of the effect that cold temperatures have on oil in automobiles.

“Cold temperatures can make the oil get really thick, so keeping an eye on it throughout the winter really makes a difference,” he said.

Lastly, Hiles explained the importance of starting up your vehicle and letting it run before putting the car in drive.

“I suggest letting it run for at least a whole minute before you take off, because the oil has time to circulate through the car and get warmed up to move,” Hiles said. “By letting it run, basically all of the fluids in the vehicle are able to get warmed up as well, so it’s really important for your car.”

Prevent breakdowns with battery care Many drivers have experienced the misfortune of getting into their vehicles only to realize their engines won’t turn over. Although there may be plenty of reasons why a car will not start, quite frequently a dead battery is to blame.

Car batteries can last for five years or more when properly cared for, but many batteries wear down and become inefficient within three years of daily use. According to the UK-based company Warranty Wise, car batteries deteriorate with every charge from a vehicle’s engine. Naturally, drivers who are stranded by dead batteries wish they had done more to prevent their battery dying while they’re on the road. Certain factors might offer clues as to how much life vehicle batteries have left. ► Longer start time: A dying battery may cause the engine to crank, but it can be slow to start or not seem to exude a lot of power. ► Cranks but doesn’t start: You

to Firestone, hot or cold temperatures can shorten a battery’s life. If you live in an extreme climate, your battery Batteries that may not last as long as the manufacrequire a turer suggests it should. jump should ► Short driving trips: People who be replaced take many short trips (less than 20 minutes each) may find their batterimmediately. ies do not have enough time to fully recharge, shortening their life expecmay turn the key to hear the engine tancy. ► Pungent aroma: Leaking and cortrying to turn over, but it won’t. Even rosion around the battery terminals if the vehicle eventually starts, have can cause battery issues. If there is a the battery checked and, if necessary, rotten egg smell under the hood, it replaced by a mechanic. ► A jump start has been necessary: may be a leaking battery on its way to Batteries that have required a jump or dying.

Drivers can have their vehicle batmultiple jumps are on their last legs teries tested by mechanics. Batteries and should be replaced immediately. ► Dim lights or check engine indi- can be replaced at home or at a garage. cator: Batteries powers the electric Servicing the vehicle frequently can components in a vehicle, so dim lights prevent performance inefficiencies could be indicative of a loss of power. and help determine if any components Having the ‘check engine’ light come are straining the battery and causing premature loss of battery life. on also can be a clue. ► Extreme temperatures: According — Source: Metrocreative

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October 2018

FALL AUTO ZONE

4

How to improve the value of your trade-in

When the time comes to purchase a new vehicle, many drivers explore trading in their existing cars or trucks. Trade-ins can reduce the cost of buying new vehicles and save drivers the hassle of selling their vehicles on their own.

Motorists who think trading in is the best way to unload their current cars can take various steps to improve the trade-in value prior to visiting the dealership. ► Know the trade-in market. Some trade-ins may be more valuable than others, even if the cars are relatively similar with regard to mileage. For example, preowned vehicle buyers typically prefer late model vehicles as opposed to cars that are older. This is even more apparent now that many car buyers want smartphone-friendly

vehicles that afford them access to the apps and GPS systems on their phones. Drivers who want to get maximum value for their trade-ins may benefit by trading in a year or so earlier than they initially planned, as this will make their cars or trucks more attractive to prospective buyers, which should make it easier for dealerships to sell the vehicle. ► Address any issues. Dealerships will offer to tend to any repairs tradeins may need, but that will come at a cost, which will be reflected in the trade-in value of the car. Vehicle owners should address any issues before taking their vehicles to the dealership. Fix any doors that stick or minor scratches on the vehicle’s exterior, remembering to have the car detailed, washed and waxed. Inves-

tigate if any major problems, such as engine troubles, are worth fixing on your own, or if you’re better off receiving less for your trade-in and letting the dealership address such issues. ► Keep maintenance records.

Maintenance records illustrating that the vehicle was taken care of can help owners get more for their trade-ins.

Drivers who intend to trade the vehicle in to the same dealership where the vehicle was purchased should still keep their own maintenance records to eliminate potential problems as they negotiate the trade-in value of their vehicles. ► Shop around. Drivers who are not satisfied with the trade-in value

October 2018

assigned by a specific dealership can shop around until they find better offers. Some dealerships may not offer much for a vehicle because they already have a similar car or truck sitting on their lot, while others may jump at the chance to make their preowned inventory more diverse. Exercise patience when shopping around to reduce any frustration that might develop during the negotiation process.

Various factors impact the trade-in value of cars and trucks. When purchasing new cars, vehicle owners can employ various strategies to get the most money for their current automobiles.

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FALL AUTO ZONE 5

October 2018

Paint versus car wrap options

Over time a car’s exterior can fade or suffer some dings and dents. Before owners sell or trade in their rides for something new, investing in a new color may be all that’s necessary to revitalize the look of the vehicle.

Changing the color of a car is not something every driver should try on their own. Such a task can be time-consuming, and it requires a good deal of skill to turn out looking good. Furthermore, painting a car involves a variety of different tools and equipment, from a spray gun, sander and buffer to specific types of enamel or acrylic paints.

After considering the work involved and the expense of investing in the equipment to get the job done right, many vehicle owners opt to hire a professional to change the color of their vehicles.

Many service centers offer two options to change the look of a car or truck: painting and car wraps.

how painting will affect the value of the vehicle.

A paint job may end up depreciating the value of a resale because it’s changing the original vehicle permanently.

Car wrap

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Car wraps are typically made of high-quality vinyls that come in a bevy of different colors and styles. Wraps also can be used for custom graphics or to advertise businesses.

The vinyl wrap completely covers the paint of the vehicle. But because car wraps can be removed, they do not permanently change the vehicle and are therefore unlikely to affect its resale value.

Car wrapping can take less time than a labor-intensive paint job. Some jobs can be completed in only two or three days. Car wraps also may be the made. Or you may be tired with the color of your less expensive option if you’re not selecting a comcar and simply desire a change. Experienced ser- plicated, custom design. Many car wraps will last Paint job A professional paint job will yield an impressive vice shops can offer these services and more. Other between five to seven years, which is on par with result. A skilled auto painter can recommend the shops may specialize in custom paint jobs that may the lifespan of a professional paint job, which lasts right type of automotive paint for your make and entail graphics, detail work or the blending of mulfive to 10 years. model and guide you in color selections. While tiple colors to give the vehicle an airbrushed effect.

Changing the look of a vehicle may be as simple there are hundreds of different color choices avail- Custom painters are artists, and their work may be as choosing a new exterior color. Professional paint able, professionals also may be able to mix colors very detailed.

Painting may demand your vehicle be off the services and vinyl car wraps make it easy to switch to create the custom look you desire.

Paint work may be done to match the existing road for a week or more, so it’s best to have an up the style of a car or truck. color of the vehicle after accident repairs have been alternative travel plan. Also, be sure to investigate — Source: MetroCreative

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October 2018

Get the best deal on an auto loan

Thanks to the high costs of new automobiles, many drivers now take out loans when replacing their existing vehicles. Such loans make it possible for drivers to purchase new vehicles they may not have the cash to buy outright, and making car payments on time each month is a great way for consumers to build their credit.

Drivers want to find great deals on their cars, but they also should make an effort to secure the most consumer-friendly auto loan they can find.

Doing so can save drivers substantial amounts of money over the course of their loans, and finding a great deal is not as difficult as it may seem. ► Go to your lender first and foremost. Loan shopping before car shopping, as opposed to relying on dealers to arrange the loan once you find a car you want, can help drivers secure better terms. By prequalifying for a loan, consumers can then go to the dealership knowing exactly how much they can spend, saving themselves time and easing nerves some buyers may have about the car-buying process. Prequalifying with a bank, credit union or online lender does not

lock buyers into those terms, leaving them room to secure even better deals by asking the auto dealer to beat the terms of their existing financing deals. Be careful not to apply for too many loans when loan shopping, as each application will lower your credit score. ► Clean up your credit. Creditors take many things into account when determining loan terms, but perhaps no variable is more important than an applicant’s own credit history.

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If your credit history is bumpy or you are currently carrying substantial debt, pay off as much of your debt as possible before applying for an auto loan. Even if your credit history is not great, you may be in line for better loan terms if you have paid off your consumer debt and recently indicated you are capable of making monthly payments for an extended period of time. ► Comparison shop. Lenders compete with one another, and consumers

can use that to secure the best possible loan terms. If one lender gives you loan terms that you find attractive, resist the temptation to sign on the dotted line right away. Sleeping on it and taking the terms to the lender’s competitors or even auto dealers may ultimately result in you landing even better terms. ► Know the terms of the loan before you drive off the lot. Some financing terms may be classified as “contingent,” which means the terms can change even after drivers take cars off the lot. That may mean higher interest rates or lengthier loans, which can cost drivers considerably more money in the long run. Drivers can avoid that fate by waiting until the terms have been finalized to accept the car and take it home.

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October 2018

FALL AUTO ZONE 7

How to detect odometer fraud

Preowned car buyers looking to buy from private sellers rather than dealerships typically understand that such an approach can be risky.

When buying from a private seller, such purchases are typically as-is, and rarely are buyers protected with extended warranties that may be offered by dealers who specialize in preowned vehicles.

Buying from private sellers may also leave buyers more susceptible to fraud. Odometer fraud is one type of fraud that buyers must be especially wary of when buying a preowned vehicle from a private seller, and the following are a handful of ways buyers can determine if a car’s odometer has been tampered with. ► Examine the vehicle’s service history. Before buying a preowned vehicle, buyers should always request to see documentation of the vehicle’s service history. This can shed light on how well (or how poorly) the vehicle was taken care of, and it also can serve as a clue as to the authenticity of the number on the vehicle’s odometer. Vehicle mileage is often included on repair orders or receipts provided by auto repair shops, so such reports should give you a picture of how many miles the car was driven at given times throughout its history. If the numbers on the reports don’t match up with the figure on the odometer, then the odometer has likely been tampered with. ► Inspect the dashboard. A damaged dashboard is not always indicative of odometer fraud, but it should be enough to arouse your suspicions.

Loose or missing screws on a dashboard or scrapes or scarring along the dashboard often occur when sellers attempt to reset their vehicles’ odometers. Again, such damage is not necessarily indicative of odometer fraud, but if you were already suspicious of the seller, then these additional signs should be enough to compel you to walk away and continue your vehicle search elsewhere. ► Ask to take the car to your own mechanic for an inspection. When buying a preowned car, prospective buyers should insist that they be allowed to take the car to their own mechanic to determine if it is worth buying. This protects sellers from buying a lemon and can help them determine if odometer fraud has

occurred. An experienced mechanic can examine a car and determine how much wear and tear it has. If that wear and tear is more than the odometer suggests it should have, then the odometer has likely been tampered with.

► Insist on a vehicle history report.

Whether buying from a dealership or private seller, buyers of preowned vehicles should always insist on seeing a vehicle history report. Mileage is always documented whenever a vehicle is registered with the state and whenever it undergoes state-mandated safety or emissions inspections. A vehicle history report from an agency like CarFax can provide buyers with a record of these registrations and inspections, and buyers can use that information to determine if the odometer on a given vehicle has been tampered with. If a seller refuses to provide a vehicle history report, walk away and continue your search until you find a buyer willing to provide the report.

Odometer fraud is employed by sellers who want to make their cars seem more attractive to prospective buyers. But buyers of preowned vehicles can employ several strategies to detect if a given vehicle’s odometer has been tampered with.

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October 2018

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