Fall Auto Guide A special supplement to The Daily Republic and Advisor
October 2016
FALL AUTO GUIDE
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Content Prepare vehicles for harsh weather ..............................2 Five ways to reinvent your garage.................................3 Driving 101: Smart tips to ace the road .......................4 The benefits of waxing vehicles...............................5 How to safely navigate wet roads ...................................6 Make your vehicle less vulnerable to theft .............7 Drive away distractions to protect teens .....................8 Ten motorcycle maintenance tips ...............9 Selling your car: Get more money with these tips .....11 Top tips for successful buyers and sellers ...........12
October 2016
Prepare vehicles for harsh weather By Jake Shama The Daily Republic
If a car battery didn’t fail last winter, there’s no guarantee it will continue working through the next one. According to Greg Hildebrandt, manager at Sturdevant’s Auto Parts in Mitchell, drivers can take a few steps to protect themselves from getting stranded in the winter months, but replacing a car battery may be one of the most important. “If the battery’s getting close to failing, when it’s cold, that’s when it’s going to fail,” Hildebrandt said. “If your vehicle is getting to be five years old, it may be a good idea to put a battery in rather than wait until it fails.” Beyond the battery, Hildebrandt said drivers should check the windshield wipers, ensure there is enough antifreeze in the engine, check tire pressure and possibly carry an extra serpentine belt, which can be replaced “with a little bit of knowledge and a few tools” if cold weather causes the first one to snap. Each winter, many vehicles are subjected to sub-zero temperatures, snowfall and icy roads, and such conditions can take their toll on vehicles over time. Taking steps to prepare vehicles for winter weather is a vital step that can make cars and trucks safer for drivers and their passengers.
Battery
Old batteries should be replaced before winter begins. Without a strong, properly functioning battery, engines cannot turn over. Most batteries last between three and five years. However, extreme cold can compromise batteries, especially those that have been around awhile. Batteries are made up of acid and See WEATHER, Page 11
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FALL AUTO GUIDE
October 2016
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5 ways to reinvent your garage (BPT) — The garage — it’s that space where you used to just store your car, lawn mower, power tools, bikes, bats and boxes of things you wore in the 90s. But to say a garage is only for storage is like saying a truck is only for hauling dressers and box springs. From game room to workshop, man cave to hangout — your garage has the potential to be anything you want it to be. So if you’re thinking of redecorating or remodeling your house, don’t spend all your time picking out kitchen tile and arguing over what type of counter looks best — step into your garage and let yourself dream big. With the right materials, some creativity and a little work, you can turn your garage into the star of the house. How? TV personality and award-winning interior designer Anitra Mecadon offers the following five ideas to get you excited about all the possibilities.
Toughen up your walls
No matter what you want to do with your garage, first make sure your walls can stand up to real life. There’s probably
no space in the house more susceptible to scratches, scuffs and accidental holes than the garage — so pick your walls accordingly. Look for PURPLE Hi-Impact XP made by National Gypsum for extra wear and tear to resist everything from car doors opened too close to the wall to the hockey sticks swung a little too hard. This drywall is embedded with fiberglass mesh to make it impact and penetration resistant — and like all PURPLE drywall, it resists moisture, mold and mildew.
Make your garage your hideaway
Sometimes you need to get away from it all — especially from your “honey do” or project list — and the garage can be where you go, your hangout, an extension of yourself and a definite point of pride. Add a snack machine, fridge, swivel chair or two and big screen TV, and you and your friends will have it made.
stuff to fill it. That means you’ll need to get creative with storage. In addition to shelves and cabinets attached to the walls, another way to store your stuff is to use a raised lift system which retracts up into the top levels of your garage and comes down with a push of a button when you need something.
more. Walls also can serve as anchors for storage systems that hold your tools, bikes, boxes and equipment. And you can rest assured that high-performing drywall, like PURPLE Hi-Impact XP, will stand up to the wear and tear of hanging up and taking down your tools, rakes, bikes and more, day after day.
There are some things that just don’t belong in your house but are perfect for the garage. Just like restaurants that have walls crowded with collectibles such as old soda signs, sea anchors and license plates — garages can follow this same design concept and personalize a space even
Today, garage floors can be anything you want — yellow, red, metallic, acidwashed or made out of heavy-duty vinyl or rubber. And whether you want the grey concrete vintage look of your childhood or something that reflects your more grownup self, when it comes to garage floors, take a chance and get inventive, because your garage can be your personal and customized sanctuary. There’s a lot you can do with a modern garage, and no matter how you decide to personalize it, the best garage remodel starts at the studs. The right drywall is as important as the right wrench in the toolbox. To learn more, visit www. askforpurple.com
Hang it up
Lift it up
Most people have a lot of stuff to store in the garage in addition to cars, tools and bikes. And let’s face it, the more available space you have, the more likely you’ll find
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October 2016
Driving 101: Smart tips to ace the road
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(BPT) - The backpacks are full, the car pools are set, and the homework is piling up as we continue to transition away from summer and back-to-school. Whether you are walking your child to the bus stop, dragging your teen out of bed or dropping your child off at school, the morning routines for millions of Americans around the country have changed. Hankook Tire recently polled Americans about driving this fall and found that the start of school impacts traffic, morning routines and driver behaviors. In its latest quarterly Gauge Index, Hankook found that 35 percent of Americans believe the start of school causes more traffic on the roads, which
impacts morning commutes. In addition to being slowed down on the road, over 10 percent of Americans reported that it takes longer for them to get out of the door in the morning. If you do find yourself late, it could have implications on others, as one-third (33 percent) of respondents indicated they commute to work with friends, family or colleagues. Along with getting to work, Hankook uncovered other back-to-school trends for the upcoming school year:
Learning to drive
Don’t be surprised if Americans drive like their parents, as the Gauge Index revealed half of all drivers were taught by Mom or Dad. The next most frequent driving teacher is a professional instructor (23 percent), followed by friends (8 percent) and siblings (6 percent). No matter who does the teaching, chances are they’d be called to the head of the class, as 85 percent of drivers are confident they would not be a better driver if someone else taught them.
Driver detention
Everyone has their own habits on the road, both good and bad, but 29 percent
of Americans recognized speeding as the most popular bad habit on the road. Talking or texting on the phone (12 percent), changing lanes without using a blinker (9 percent) and not wearing a seatbelt (7 percent) were other bad habits recognized by drivers.
Car coloring
Car color has strong implications on a driver and vehicle’s personality, and Americans are divided in how they choose the color of their vehicle. While 38 percent of respondents indicated they choose the color of their car because it’s their personal favorite, 23 percent of Americans chose the color based on what is the least expensive and another 23 percent choose a color that they think will stay the cleanest. Other factors include keeping the car cool in high temperatures (17 percent) as well as colors that are considered to be “safe” on the road (10 percent).
Back-to-school driving 101
Hankook offers some basic automotive tips to ensure safe and smooth driving this fall. Start the season off right with a DIY
vehicle audit. Be sure to check your tire pressure, tire tread, oil levels and brake lights. To check your tread, insert a penny into your tire’s tread grooves. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, your tires are worn and you likely need to replace them. If you are in the market for new tires, take advantage of Hankook’s Great Hit Mail-in Rebate, and save up to $100 on premium tires by visiting: www.hankooktire.com/us. Have you ever forgot where you parked? If so, you are not alone. The Hankook Gauge Index found 75 percent of people have in fact forgotten where they parked. To avoid having this happen, take a picture of your parking spot or note the lot number or another landmark on your phone. While we can forget where we parked, we can also forget what kind of tires are on our car. Make sure your car is running on the right, season-appropriate tires. The Hankook Ventus S1 noble2 is an ideal all-season high performance tire that combines cutting-edge appearance with confident handling, traction and control on dry, wet and wintery roads. — Source: BrandPoint
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FALL AUTO GUIDE
October 2016
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The benefits of waxing vehicles After a thorough washing and interior detailing, many vehicle owners put the finishing touch on their cars and trucks by applying a coat of wax. Is this a practice of automotive vanity, or does waxing actually pay legitimate dividends? A coat of wax provides a pristine shine and can help protect paint from the elements. Waxing may not be as essential as in years past, when vehicle paints were run-ofthe-mill lacquers that didn’t offer much in the way of protection. But waxing can still provide a variety of benefits that go beyond making a vehicle look good when cruising down the highway. Protects paint’s clear coating: According to the research team at consumer resource site Angie’s List, failing to occasionally apply wax or another protectant to the vehicle’s exterior can cause a breakdown of the clear coat that protects the paint. If the clear coating deteriorates, the paint
can be exposed to road salt and may be vulnerable to damage from oxidation. Covers up blemishes: Properly applied wax can cover small scratches or light blemishes in the paint job. This may delay having to get a new paint job. Shields against bugs and bird debris: A freshly washed car can seem like a magnet for bird droppings and bug splatter. A coat of wax is another protectant against these issues, and may make it easier to clean off residue so it doesn’t stick to and damage the vehicle’s paint. Reduces leasing expenses: Lessees may want to know that applying wax can keep a vehicle in better condition, which can pay dividends when it is time to turn in a vehicle. The dealership will perform a thorough inspection and could charge for discoloration, scratches or other paint issues. Waxing regularly may help reduce
those expenses. May help prevent careless driving: A person who diligently takes care of his or her vehicle may translate that care into caution behind the wheel. If one is excited to keep a clean and well-maintained car, it makes sense that the same person will want to protect the vehicle in other ways, such as through safe driving habits. Provides exercise and fresh air: A day spent washing and waxing a vehicle can be enjoyable to those who can use some time outdoors. Improves resale value: A wellmaintained car or truck is more attractive to potential buyers. That can translate into a higher resale value, whether the vehicle is sold privately or as a trade-in. Waxing a vehicle is beneficial in various ways. New formulations are easier than ever to apply and can provide that shiny, well-maintained look drivers covet. — Source: Metro Creative
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October 2016
How to safely navigate wet roads Fall is a great time of year to hit the open road, as fall foliage is colorful and provides a wonderful backdrop for weekend getaways, while the mild temperatures of fall make this an ideal time to enjoy the great outdoors. Though autumn is often a mild time of year with regard to weather, fall foliage enthusiasts can still encounter adverse conditions on road trips. According to the automotive group AAA, wet pavement contributes to nearly 1.2 million traffic accidents each year. When combined with fall leaves, wet pavement poses an even greater threat to drivers and their passengers. Autumn and precipitation do not necessarily go hand in hand, but drivers should still exercise caution during the fall road trip season so they can better handle roadways that are wet and covered in fallen leaves.
Do not use cruise control. Because fall foliage can be so stunning to experience, many drivers are tempted to use the cruise control feature on their automobiles so they can pay more attention to the array of colors at their disposal. But cruise control should never be engaged when driving on wet roads or roads that may be covered in leaves. Such conditions require drivers to focus their undivided attention on the road ahead of them. When drivers suddenly encounter slick roads, easing off the accelerator rather than quickly applying the brakes can be the safest response, but such a response is impossible when cruise control is engaged. Drive slowly. Many fall road trippers are already driving slowly so they can fully enjoy the fall scenery. But it’s important that drivers slow down even more when encountering
wet roadways, as driving slow can reduce the risk of a vehicle hydroplaning. When vehicles hydroplane, they slide uncontrollably on wet surfaces as the tires rise up on the water covering the roads. AAA notes that tires on vehicles driving as slow as 35 miles per hour can still lose some contact with the road, so drivers should maintain low speeds when driving on wet roads and reduce their speeds even further during heavy rains. Resist the urge to brake quickly. When drivers feel themselves losing control, many respond by braking quickly. But hard braking and quick turns can increase the risk that a vehicle will hydroplane. And even if the vehicle does not hydroplane, motorists may have a hard time controlling it when slamming on the brakes. When encountering wet roads, brake slowly and maintain low speeds
until the roads dry off. Leave ample room between vehicles. Because braking quickly on wet roadways can increase the risk of accident, it’s important that drivers leave ample room between their vehicles and the vehicles in front of them. Afford other drivers the space to brake slowly just like you hope the
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drivers behind you are doing. Avoid overcrowded roadways during especially wet weather. Wet conditions during fall road trip season can be dangerous, and it’s important that drivers learn to navigate wet roadways safely. — Source: Metro Creative
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Make your vehicle less vulnerable to theft
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Vehicle theft is something few people imagine happening to them. Until it does. While many motorists may think technology has done wonders to curb vehicle theft, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that a motor vehicle is stolen every 46 seconds in the United States. Auto theft is sometimes mistaken as a victimless crime. After all, insured motorists are typically reimbursed for stolen vehicles, and drivers whose cars
are returned after being stolen can simply submit a claim to have any damages paid for by their insurers. But this characterization of auto theft is untrue, as all motorists, whether their car’s been stolen or not, pay for auto theft. The Insurance Bureau of Canada notes that each year auto theft costs Canadians roughly $1 billion. That figure includes the $542 million insurers pay to fix or replace stolen vehicles each year. Those costs are ultimately passed on to customers, who then indirectly pay for the actions of car thieves. Curbing auto theft is not necessarily the job of drivers, but there are things motorists can do to reduce the likelihood that their car will be stolen by opportunistic thieves. • Avoid keyless ignition systems.
Drivers who live in areas that are vulnerable to auto theft may want the peace of mind that comes with traditional keyed ignition systems instead of the more modern and flashy keyless ignition systems. While vehicles with keyed ignition systems are stolen every day, some thieves may find it easier and quicker to steal cars or trucks with keyless ignition
systems. Thieves can copy keys used in traditional ignition systems, but that process may require access to the original key and tends to take longer than it takes for thieves to reprogram keyless ignition systems once they’re inside a car. Reprogramming devices are not legal, but they are available and can be used to shut off automobile alarm systems in a matter of seconds.
• Lock your vehicle at all times.
One of the simplest ways to protect a vehicle from prospective thieves is to always lock the windows and doors, even when you’re inside the vehicle. Auto thieves like things to go quickly and smoothly, and locked doors and rolled up windows only complicate things for thieves. Get in the habit of locking the vehicle when you’re driving, as unlocked doors make it easier for carjackers to surprise unsuspecting motorists. • Park smart. Some motorists like to park far away so their vehicles are not at risk of being dinged or scratched by inattentive drivers and passengers getting into and out of
nearby vehicles. Others may simply not have the patience to find parking spots in well-lit areas close to home or storefronts. But thieves may target vehicles parked nowhere near foot or automobile traffic. Always park in parking garages or other well-lit areas, which deter thieves from breaking in and driving away with your vehicle.
• Etch the VIN onto your windows.
Car thieves are not in the auto theft business so they can build a fleet of stolen cars. Upon stealing a car, many car thieves head right for a chop shop, which is a place where stolen cars are disassembled and then sold for parts. By etching the VIN, or vehicle identification number, of your car or truck on your vehicle’s windshield or windows, you may be making your car less attractive to prospective thieves and the chop shops they do business with. Vehicle theft remains a problem even as technology has done much to prevent it. But drivers can take steps to reduce their risk of being victimized by car thieves. — Source: Metro Creative
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October 2016
Drive away distractions to protect teens behind the wheel By Jake Shama The Daily Republic
In the eyes of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, texting and driving is as dangerous as drunk driving, speeding and not wearing a seat belt. According to Tony Mangan, public information officer for DPS, the Office of Highway Safety and Highway Patrol are continuously urging people to be safe on the road, and texting while driving is equally dangerous as other distractions. “It’s right up there with wearing a seat belt, not drinking and driving, watching your speed,” Mangan said. “I think anything that hinders a driver and can cause them to be unsafe and to be a risk to anybody on the road is something that we are concerned about.” In 2015 in South Dakota, drivers age 13 to 19 were involved in 300 crashes. Of those, 262 were determined to be distracted, 38 of which were using a cell phone or other electronic device. None of the crashes were fatal, but 89 caused some kind of injury. Many teens don’t recall a time when they were not continuously connected to their friends. Cell phones —- which might have been provided as a safety precaution in case mom or dad was running late
picking them up from school — are now the source of constant messaging, sharing and media consumption. Teens send texts instead of passing notes in class. They share moments with their peers and the world in the form of photos and short videos. Music, food and transportation can arrive on demand, all with the swipe of a finger. Being away from their phones, even for a short period of time, can even cause a form of separation anxiety expressed in the acronym FOMO (fear of missing out). So it should come as no surprise that cell phone use is the offense most commonly associated with distracted driving. However, it’s not the only type of distraction. “A lot of people think they’re better drivers than they actually are, which is why they take unnecessary risks when they’re behind the wheel,” said Randy Petro, chief claims officer for Mercury Insurance. “We see a lot of claims related to distracted driving, including parents turning to scold arguing children, adjusting the infotainment system, and even taking photos while driving. Your first priority once you start piloting any vehicle should be to focus on the task at
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hand — driving.” Ten percent of all drivers ages 15 to 19 who were involved in fatal crashes were distracted at the time of the crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). NHTSA also reports that 660,000 people drive distracted every day. Teens aren’t the only ones who feel the need to be connected — adults are guilty of it, too. Many of the teens who are glued to their smartphones have witnessed their parents answering emails at the dinner table or have seen them shoot a “quick text” while driving. Teens have grown up learning that this type of behavior is acceptable and maybe even expected. However, there’s a right time and a right place for everything. “The first thing parents need to do is practice what they preach. Teenagers won’t always be receptive to ‘because I say so’ or ‘because I’m the adult,’ especially if they witness their parents actively engaging in a behavior they’re being told is bad,” adds Petro. “We as adults need to set a proper example — after all, we do have the advantage of more life experience.” Parents should set a powerful example
by committing not to drive distracted if they want their children to do the same. If necessary, parents can also invest in technology to monitor and disable phones while their teens are driving to eliminate the temptation altogether. “No Instagram post, bite of a burger or playlist selection is worth someone else’s life. People are mainly in a car to get from point A to point B, and our wish is for them to do it safely,” says Petro. There are several excellent online resources that provide tips and information to help prepare teens for life behind the wheel, including Mercury Insurance’s Drive Safe Challenge and NHTSA’s Distraction.gov. Mangan said even something outside the vehicle can cause a distraction, but his department understands the temptation caused by a cell phone, specifically, and urged all drivers to put it away on the road, even in open areas. “One minute, just a quick glance, and you can be off the road,” Mangan said. “We understand it’s tempting to do that. That’s our society today, but when you’re driving, your full focus needs to be on being a safe driver.” — Brandpoint contributed to this report
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FALL AUTO GUIDE 9 10 Motorcycle Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Motorcycle Healthy October 2016
By Blake Sabers
1.
Just like with cars, motorcycles also require a comprehensive annual review from a specialist, so it is best to take it to your trusted mechanic to check the engine and the condition of the tires and body. 2. One of the most important things to remember about motorcycles is to change the oil. Check the oil every 2500 or 5000 miles, this depends on the model of the bike. Normally this is also done every year during the annual check-up of the motorcycle, if it’s new you should follow the instructions in the manual. Note that during the summer more oil is consumed, while in the winter it’ll last a little longer. 3. Maintaining the brake pads of your motorcycle is very important because your life may depend on their proper functioning. It is recommended to get a check-up every 5,000 or 10,000 miles depending on your
city and how you drive. In cities with a lot of hills you should perform a check every 50,000 miles. When the brake pads are thinner than 1/16” or less, it’s time to change them. 4. Monitoring the tires is part of the basic care of your bike. It is advisable to always do this before beginning a journey, making sure that they do not have cracks, holes, tears or any wear that can put your safety at risk. Once the tires are worn, don’t wait too long to change them. 5. At least every 5,000 miles you should also clean the air filter of your motorcycle. This filter prevents dirt from entering the engine of your bike. If you live in an area you are driving through streets with a lot of dust or dirt, you should clean the air filter as often as every week. 6. The liquid coolant, if equipped, which protects the engine of the motorcycle during the summer heat and winter frosts should be replaced
approximately every two years, but if you use the bike often and go for long distances, this should be done earlier. 7. You should check the fork oil regularly and make sure to replace it during your annual mechanical check-up. The fork oil helps dampen the bike more efficiently, preventing it from being affected by bumps or unevenness in the road. It also lubricates all components of the bike that are used when it is in motion, so it is very important. 8. The bike chain or belt should not be too slack. Chains should be well oiled, but these have more durable components and can withstand up to 30,000 miles without needing to be replaced. During the annual check-up they can check its status and tell you when it’s time to change it or whether it is too slack and needs tightening. 9. During the winter, remember the motorcycle battery that it should be recharged regularly to
prevent frost from affecting it. Also, between 3,000 and 9,000 miles, check the spark plugs, as that often causes a few problems for bikes. 10. If you have a new bike and you follow the instruction manual, it should last for a long
time in good condition. Do not forget to take your motorcycle to the mechanic once a year and to drive carefully and always go to the mechanic if you notice that your motorcycle has any issues or makes unusual noises.
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Selling your car: Get more money with these top tips (BPT) — Selling a car for cash should be simple, safe and able to navigate without roadblocks; however, there is no shortage of sneaky techniques that are employed to scam car sellers. Through hiding supplementary fees in the fine print, car buying businesses can leave car sellers spending anywhere from $10 to $300 in unexpected fees - a disappointing loss in an anticipated profit. With the numerous car buying companies competing for business in a niche industry, it is difficult for a car seller to discern which company is the correct choice; however, there are many things that a seller can be aware of to ensure that they are making the best decision.
Protecting yourself as a car seller
Towing
Fortunately for car sellers, the costliest hidden fee when selling a vehicle is also the easiest to avoid. While it is no longer common for car buying companies to expect a seller to facilitate towing arrangements, it does occur. Towing can add up to $100 or more in additional deductions depending on where the buying company is located. Additionally, many buying companies cannot accommodate vehicles outside of cars, SUVs, vans and trucks.
Liquids
Many scrap and junk car buyers require a seller to empty a car’s gas tank before they will send a towing service for collection, and if a seller fails to do so, it can result in a charge upwards of $50. A $50 deduction can make a significant dent in your overall profit, and draining a gas tank can be timely and incredibly dangerous if a seller does not
WEATHER Continued from Page 2
water, and cold temperatures can freeze the water, thereby affecting battery performance. According to AAA’s Automotive Research Center, at 32 degrees, the average battery loses 35 percent of its strength. Newer batteries can be protected by starting the vehicle each day to warm up and recharge the battery. Let the car run for at least 10 minutes if you cannot take an extended drive.
Exterior maintenance
Keeping a car waxed and sealed can help maintain a durable exterior finish.
Brandpoint photo
have previous experience or has not been given proper direction.
Car detailing
Car buying companies take into account the condition of a car’s interior when generating a buying price for a seller, but do not typically communicate that the state of the interior, down to cleanliness, could have an effect on the final offer to a seller. While a seller should ideally take care of a car’s exterior and interior on a routine basis, they should also be aware of hidden deductions that could arise from a lack in communication from a buyer.
Paperwork While many car buying companies claim
This includes not only the paint, but the rubber and vinyl parts of the car’s exterior. Winter is a good time to switch to a heavy-duty synthetic wax that can shield against water and road salts. Highquality sealants can be used on bumpers, trim and rubber door seals as added protection. Speak with an automotive retailer or even the car dealership if you are unsure which products will make your car’s parts most durable for winter weather. Do not stop washing your car just because the weather is cold. Slushy, wet roads and snow-melting salts can speed up the formation of rust or other decay on the undercarriage of the vehicle. These materials will need
to manage paperwork for a car seller, it is not unlikely for a small “document transfer” fee to be removed from a seller’s original offer upon transaction for the car. Before accepting a quote from a car buyer, a seller must guarantee that they will do the heavy lifting regarding paperwork and ensure that no additional fees will be taken out of the original quote. Additionally, car buying companies have been known to buy cars without a title present, and while this is convenient for the seller, it can also lead to reputation management problems farther down the road.
to be periodically cleaned off. Flush the underside of the vehicle whenever possible, taking advantage of any dry, slightly warmer days.
Tire pressure
According to the automotive retailer Pep Boys, vehicle tires lose a pound of air pressure for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Many modern cars will alert to changes in air pressure, and drivers should be diligent in maintaining the proper tire pressure. Fuel economy as well as handling ability can decline when tires are not inflated properly. Tires can be refilled at many gas stations for little cost.
Wipers
Visibility is key in hazardous weather
While selling a vehicle for cash can result in a headache, it doesn’t have to be a painful experience with the right information and research. If you are a car seller looking for a car buying company that is fast, easy and transparent, CashForCars.com exceeds all demands. CashForCars.com is a car acquisition division of Copart, Inc., a publicly traded and reputable company with a dependable local footprint. CashForCars. com purchases vehicles directly from the public, offering free towing, clean paperwork transfer and exemplary customer service with no hidden fees, hidden charges on towing, or out-ofpocket expenses. The CashForCars.com team answers the calls of vehicle sellers looking to sell their cars, truck, SUVs, boats or RVs, and guides them through the quick and painless process while diligently working to guarantee that an honest reputation is preserved as the main priority. The CashForCars.com business model is built around saving customers the hassle of selling a car in a traditional way, and has over 160 locations across the U.S. to ensure that a driver will be able to pick up your vehicle in as little as 24 hours — sometimes the same day! Backed by over 30 years in the car buying business, CashForCars.com diligently works to stay up-to-date on vehicle pricing by incorporating market trends, damage levels and comparable model prices to ensure that each customer is presented with the best available offer. — Source: Brandpoint
conditions, and keeping the windshield clean is a priority. This means ensuring there is enough windshield wiper fluid in the car and that it is a product that will not freeze. Wiper blades can freeze and crack in the winter. Older blades may be more susceptible to damage. It’s a worthy investment to replace existing wiper blades at the start of each winter. When vehicles are parked, pull the wipers off of the windshield to safeguard them from sticking and cracking. Cold weather requires drivers to amp up their vehicle maintenance routines. Consult with a mechanic or automotive retailer for more ideas and products that can help your vehicles operate safely and efficiently this winter.
12
FALL AUTO GUIDE
October 2016
Top tips for successful buyers and sellers in the auto salvage industry (BPT)— The auto salvage industry is more popular than ever. While automotive prices rise, so does the difficulty in finding a good deal on a vehicle, and yet, many are still misinformed about what a salvage car truly is. Automotive consumers have been misled to believe that a salvage car, scrap car, junk car and total loss vehicle are one in the same. As a result, many consumers are not aware of the value that the auto salvage industry has to offer.
What is auto salvage
Cars that are categorized as salvage come in all makes, models, conditions and mileage, but what does auto salvage really mean? The term auto salvage is quite simply the state of the car’s title, and it refers to vehicles that have been characterized by insurance companies, adjusters and the states as damaged in some way. The term “salvage” is generically used negatively; however, a salvaged vehicle does not necessarily imply that it cannot be rebuilt, repaired or safely driven again. In fact, many salvaged vehicles are cars that have undergone minimal aesthetic damage, and rebuilt or repaired vehicles are specifically required to pass a special inspection before they
can legally be released for the open road. Alternatively, a total loss vehicle is not a type of title, but it is a type of salvage vehicle. A total loss vehicle occurs when the insured property is totally destroyed or damaged in a way that cannot be repaired or recovered for future use. It is important to understand the difference in order to truly appreciate how the auto salvage industry operates - this also enables buyers and sellers to make smart choices.
in the U.S. alone. In addition to the critical role that the auto salvage industry plays in the automotive supply chain, automotive recyclers play a valuable role in the environmentally-friendly process of dismantling, recycling or repurposing of motor vehicles. Buying and selling a salvaged vehicle is not only more cost efficient, it also preserves natural resources and significantly reduces pollution and the demand for landfill space.
From the early days of automobiles, automotive recycling has developed into a refined and technology-driven industry. It is valuable as a consumer to understand that the auto salvage industry is really the automotive recycling industry. The primary focus of all entities within the industry is to repurpose, reuse and retain the value of all things automotive, and find a new life for the vehicle or components of the vehicle. The auto salvage industry is a thriving part of the automotive supply chain. Automotive recycling as a whole represents over $32 billion in sales annually, and the industry employs over 140,000 employees
Buyers and sellers of salvaged vehicles can sleep soundly knowing that all title discrepancies must always be announced during the transfer of a vehicle. This is including, but not limited to, mileage, salvage, theft, recovery, stolen vehicle, buybacks and more. Insurance transfers also require full disclosure, and by law, titles will always be changed to reflect the vehicle’s true status. Remember to be a smart buyer and check your state for the different title types and what they mean.
The auto salvage industry
Title
buy and sell cars. If you are looking to buy and sell a salvage title vehicle, Copart.com exceeds all expectations and demands. Copart, Inc., a leader in live online salvage and insurance auto auctions, is a publicly traded and reputable company with a dependable global footprint. Copart has grown into the premier online destination for quality vehicles that links buyers and sellers all around the world. The salvage auto industry is more popular than ever before, and Copart. com makes it more convenient than ever before to access thousands of vehicles. — Source: Brandpoint
Copart
All buyers and sellers should take it upon themselves to fully understand vehicle history and title status before offering to
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