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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – Like many other Americans, if you're in the market for a car, you have reviewed your options and decided that buying used is the best value for your money in the current economy. Perhaps you've already researched the make, model, style and options that best suit you. You may have even checked with your bank and other lenders to evaluate your financing options. You're ready to buy…or are you?

While you know in general how much you want to pay and what features you want, it's the specific car's vehicle history that can make all the difference. You may have heard about vehicle history reports and you may already know that they are a good idea, but are they really worth the money? And once you buy one, how can you be sure you understand all the information on it?

"You should physically examine a vehicle yourself if possible and always have a mechanic inspect it. However, this doesn't always tell you everything there is to know about that vehicle," says Len Sims, vice president of operations for NADA Appraisal Guides. "If you buy a used car without a vehicle history report, you could be buying a vehicle with safety issues or other serious issues, in which you could end up in a spider web of declining value."

If you're still unsure of the value of a vehicle history report, consider these facts:

* Many dealers use vehicle history reports to check their used vehicles before they are sold to make sure they are safe and reliable. A significant number of dealers also offer, at no cost, vehicle history reports on the cars they sell.

* Many used vehicles in the United States are bought and sold at wholesale auctions before arriving on dealers' lots and the dealers use vehicle history reports as a determining factor when deciding which autos to buy at auction.

* Many auto dealers and online marketplaces offer free reports on listed vehicles. Some even encourage you to purchase and review a report on the vehicle you're seriously considering, even if they are not the ones selling it.

Once you've made a vehicle history report part of your used-car research, the next step is to understand all the information in the report. While much of the information in a vehicle history report is straightforward, there may be terms and items you aren't familiar with.

A good vehicle report will help explain all the terms and events in a vehicle's history and give you more information on whether the events in that history might ultimately affect the safety and reliability of your vehicle. When reviewing a vehicle history report, look for the following:

* A summary that gives you a brief overview of the information contained on the report, including identifying vehicle information, number of owners, number of reported accidents and information on the title, odometer and vehicle events.

* A vehicle history score. To date, only Experian's AutoCheck provides this. Known as the AutoCheck Score, this number works like a credit score and boils down the vehicle's history into an easy-to-understand number. The AutoCheck Score also provides a number range representing a comparison against vehicles of a similar age and class. This allows you to quickly and easily evaluate a vehicle's history using a more relevant, apples-to-apples comparison. And the score was developed by Experian, a company with a long history of expertise in making complicated information easier to understand.

* Title check. A title check alerts you of whether the title has been branded. States assign title brands to specific vehicles to alert potential customers of past problems. Examples of such problems include an accident that results in a total loss declaration or a vehicle that qualifies as a lemon under that state's lemon laws.

This section will also help you discern if a title may have been “washed,” a process that happens when a title is branded in one state and then declared as clean in another state. For example, a vehicle that has a salvage title in one state can sometimes be purchased, repaired, taken to another state, and re-titled there without the salvage designation.

* Problem check. This section will tell you if the vehicle was reported to have been announced as frame damaged at a wholesale auction, sold at salvage auction or seen at a recycling facility.

* Odometer check. Reports collect odometer reading information from many data sources, including state titles, auctions and dealerships. This information can alert you if the vehicle has had its odometer rolled back.

* Use and event check. If the vehicle was used as a company, rental or fleet car, or as a taxi or police car, that information will appear here. This section will also summarize any accidents reported on the vehicle.

* Full history. The complete reported history of the vehicle is listed in chronological order so you can see when accidents, maintenance events, title transfers and other events were reported.

More than one company offers vehicle history reports, so it's important to use a report that puts the important information you need into an easy-to-understand format. Visit www.AutoCheck.com to learn more.

“In this economy, buying a good used vehicle can be a very wise way to get a great car for a lot less money,” says Sims. “A vehicle history report with easy-to-understand information can help you purchase a vehicle that will serve you well for years to come.”

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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – As Americans start to clean up their act, they often focus on cleaning and maintenance tasks essential to keeping their homes in good repair. However, they often forget to take the same care with their vehicles.

In most cases, a vehicle is the second largest investment people make after their homes. Since many vehicles weathered harsh winter conditions this past season, now is the best time to prepare for warmer weather and the different road conditions that go with it.

Here is a simple checklist of tasks motorists should perform to help keep their vehicles running safer, longer and more cost-effectively:

* Check that tread: The economy has forced many to postpone tire purchases. With unpredictable wet weather ahead, now is not the time to have low tread on your tires. The lower the tread depth, the less traction you will have on wet roads and the greater the distance you will need to stop.

Advances in tire technology are helping deliver a new generation of moderately priced tires that offer the all-season traction and long tread wear consumers have come to expect, but with enhanced rolling resistance to help save money on gas. For example, the proprietary tread compound used in Goodyear's new Assurance Fuel Max tires helps save 2,600 miles worth of gas over the life of a set of tires.

* Watch for inflation: As temperatures change, so can tire pressure. Proper tire inflation is essential for increased automotive safety, optimum driving performance and significant cost savings, including better fuel mileage. Tires should be inflated to the vehicle manufacturer recommendations printed on the vehicle door placard or in the glove box and should be checked monthly. Over-inflation can lead to premature or irregular tire wear and under-inflation reduces a vehicle's fuel efficiency by an average of 3.3 percent.

* Breathe free: Replacing a dirty air filter can increase a vehicle's life expectancy and fuel efficiency by reducing the strain on the engine, especially during warmer months. Over the winter months, salt, sand and other impurities may build up in a vehicle's air filtration system and could be robbing it of as much as 10 percent in fuel efficiency.

* Keep it clean: Consumers' cars, trucks and SUVs weather the harsh conditions and corrosive elements associated with winter, including freezing rain, snow, ice, sand and salt. Keeping vehicles clean will help protect them from the chemicals and dirt that may attack the car's finish and undercarriage. Be sure to use quality cleaners and waxes specifically designed for a car's finish, as regular dish soap will actually break down your wax and could harm the underlying paint.

* Keep it flowing: Oil is the lifeblood of the engine; helping to keep it running efficiently and effectively. Not sure what oil to use? Defer to a professional or use the grade of motor oil recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to achieve optimum engine protection and fuel efficiency.

For more helpful car care advice or information on tires for cars, light trucks, SUVs and more, visit your local Goodyear retailer or go online to www.goodyeartires.com.

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July 21st, 2010 by

There is a time in every family when Mom and Dad come to the sudden realization that their child is growing up. For many, that is when their son or daughter is about to turn 16 and ready to start driving.

Don't wait until the day the law says Junior is ready to get behind the wheel to start thinking about insurance. If you give it some thought well in advance, adding a teenager to your auto insurance policy won't have to cause sticker shock.

So what kind of insurance do you need? Many insurance agents say it's best to keep the same coverage in place for the teenager as you have for yourself:

* Liability – Protection from risk associated with property damage and bodily injury to others.

* Comprehensive coverage – Protection from the cost of non-collision damages, such as vandalism, theft and weather-related damage.

* Collision – Protection from the cost of repairing damages to your own vehicle caused by a collision with another object.

* Medical Payments – Pays medical costs to you or other parties for injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.

* Uninsured Motorist – Protection from the costs of an accident caused by another driver with insufficient insurance or no insurance at all.

It is also a good idea to carry coverage for towing in case the vehicle breaks down on the side of the road, leaving the driver stranded.

Until they turn 18, teenagers can't buy car insurance on their own, so if they want to drive, their parents will need to either add the child to their existing policy, or purchase one for them. According to LeaseGuide.com, you can expect it to cost between $500 and $3,000 per year to add a teenager to your policy. The cost is so high because teenagers have higher crash rates than older drivers.

To keep costs down as low as possible, be sure to look into all the different insurance discounts offered by your company. If you have both your auto and homeowners or renters insurance with the same company, make sure you are getting a multi-policy discount. A good student discount, which rewards teenagers for their commitment to doing well in school, is another easy discount to get. Many insurance companies also offer incentive programs families can participate in to keep costs down.

Holding your child accountable for the deductible is another way parents can make sure their teenage driver will take responsibility for their actions.

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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – In the world of tires, "low rolling resistance" is a lot like health care. It's a topic that affects nearly all adults, but the majority of consumers are not very well versed about the subject.

This is partly because tires have long been put on the back burner. Consumers know their tires are round and have tread patterns, but most don't want to think about them until those treads start to wear or there's a flat.

Well, as Bob Dylan sort of sang, "The Tires, They are a-Changin'." And a lot of this metamorphosis is directly related to environmental issues. Nearly every hybrid vehicle now comes equipped with low rolling resistance (LRR) tires, which are designed to minimize the energy wasted as heat while the tire rolls down the road. A wide array of manufacturers are also developing LRR tires (in lieu of standard models) for gas-powered cars and trucks.

The overall result: better fuel efficiency. In fact, says Mark Chung, director of corporate planning and strategy for Yokohama Tire Corporation, studies have shown that for a vehicle averaging 15,000 miles a year, fuel savings (figured at $3 per gallon) on LRR tires will be approximately $100 annually.

“Think of a bicycle,” says Chung. “It takes more energy to pedal a bike when the tires have less air because more rubber is hitting the road. The same theory applies to your car. A lot of energy is used to overcome rolling resistance, so gas mileage suffers (and more C02 is emitted) as a direct result. This is the reason properly inflated LRR tires, which provide the least amount of resistance against the road, are gaining acceptance across the U.S.”

According to Chung, manufacturers of LRR tires adhere to the same federal guidelines used to control the traction, treadwear and temperature resistance of every other type of tire. So for eco-conscious and budget-conscious drivers who truly want to maximize their mileage, the shift to low rolling resistance tires is a popular upgrade.

"In fact, management at Yokohama is so sure that low rolling resistance is the future of the industry, we've recently introduced the AVID ENVigor tire. Its super low rolling resistance and comes in 69 sizes – the largest tire launch in the company's 40-year history in the U.S.," says Chung.

Some manufacturers have mastered the LLR art while others are still learning. And many original equipment and replacement tires still lack rolling resistance labeling, warns Chung. “Therefore, consumers should consult their tire dealers before making any low rolling resistance purchase,” he says.

Also, Chung reminds consumers that low rolling resistance tires are but one way drivers can help the environment and save money. He offers these additional tips:

* Keep your tires properly inflated. Once a month, when the tires are cold (at least three to four hours after the vehicle has been driven), check tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Be sure that the valve stems have a plastic or metal cap to keep dirt out and seal against leakage.

* Replace your air filter. A clogged air filter blocks the air needed to burn fuel efficiently which wastes gas.

* Keep your car tuned-up according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule and you'll keep all systems in good working order, which can optimize your mileage.

* Slow down. For every five miles per hour you go above 60 mph, you're lowering your gas mileage and, ultimately, paying even more for each gallon of gas.

For additional tire care and safety tips, visit www.yokohamatire.com or www.rma.org.

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July 21st, 2010 by

With a down economy and struggling domestic automakers, now may be the perfect time to consider investing in a new vehicle. Gone are the days when entire weekends were spent scouring newspaper ads, pacing through endless car lots and haggling with aggressive salesmen.

The Internet has changed the game of car sales. Now you'll find countless websites devoted to this industry where you can browse, compare prices and even purchase your vehicle. If you're new to high-speed Internet, online car shopping can be understandably overwhelming. Read below for some useful tips on where to go and what to look for when researching cars on the Internet.

Things to do before you get online:

Decide what you're looking for: Do you want a new car? Used? What color and what type of interior? Are you looking for a manual or automatic transmission? These and other similar questions are important to have in mind before you begin your research.

Pick a price point: Depending on your financial situation, it can be helpful to have a number in mind when you begin your search of how much you'll be willing to spend.

Know the deals in your area: Use traditional sources like commercials and newspaper ads to gather information about what specials you can find in your area. You can use these later to compare real-life pricing to what you find online.

When you get online:

Check online classifieds: These sites, such as Craigslist, are particularly useful when shopping for a pre-owned vehicle as they allow users to post listings (complete with photos) of their for-sale cars. Once you find one you're interested in, simply contact the seller via e-mail to make a deal or set up a viewing.

Try wholesaler sites: Retailers such as CARMAX list thousands of cars online, all of which you can easily search with your own specifications. CARMAX even offers a “buy now” option that allows customers to purchase a car online and have it transported to their location.

Browse dealer inventory: Traditional dealers have begun listing their inventory online, often adding pictures and “test drive” features. This is a great way to get information about what is physically available in your area and even set up an appointment with a sales associate.

Check Kelly Blue Book: To get accurate data about what the car you've found is really worth, go to www.kbb.com and enter in the details. It's helpful to have an objective source's appraisal in mind when making a final decision on your purchase.

If you do decide to buy online, or if you are sharing any private information through your computer, make sure your Internet connection is secure. If you live in a rural area and are using dial-up, you may want to upgrade to satellite Internet. A high-speed satellite Internet connection will give you the speed you need to “test-drive” your virtual vehicles and the security you want when purchasing online.

Buying a car is stressful, so why not use the Internet to make it simpler and more hassle-free? With the abundance of available inventory, there's no reason not to use the Web for your benefit, before, during and after you buy your vehicle. Even if you're new to the Internet you'll be amazed by the options and advantages that come with shopping for a new or used car online.

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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – In the last four years, 474 children in the United States were killed by back-over incidents, according to Kidsandcars.org, a child safety advocacy group. These deaths are easily preventable, and you can greatly reduce the risk of back-up accidents by installing a back-up sensor on your car or truck.

With SUVs, trucks and large cars growing in size, backing up can pose a serious problem for drivers. Even the most accomplished driver can't see blind spots, which can lead to costly repairs or serious injury.

A back-up sensor is a small investment to protect your car and those around you. It is especially a good idea if you live in an area with many pets or children. Between 2001 and 2003 alone, more than 7,400 children ages 1 to 14 were treated for injuries after being hit by a car backing up. Many of these accidents could have been avoided through enhanced vehicle safety features, such as a back-up sensor.

Some new cars come standard with some kind of sensory device or camera to help drivers with rearward motion. A lot of cars do not come with factory installed sensors, but there are products on the market available for self installation. A small motion detector system is mounted above the rear license plate with a connection to the audio alarm placed inside your car. The system will beep and a green LED will light up when an object is within 5 feet of your vehicle. As you get closer to an object the beeping speed will increase and additional LED lights will light up.

In addition to being a must-have safety device, a back-up sensor also saves users a lot of money from repairs needed from avoidable accidents. While the average back-up sensor costs $100, repairs to a mirror can be as much as $500, and back bumper replacements and repairs can run as high as $2,000.

A PEAK Back-Up Sensor System assists with parking and general rearward motion. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to install and can bring much piece of mind. Back-up sensors aren't just shiny new gadgets built for luxury. They can be cost effective and life saving. It's a small investment to make your vehicle safer and provide great peace of mind.

In addition to, or as an alternative to sensors, drivers can also become more alert and take measures into their own hands with other tactics. Mirrors are often bumped in tight garages or even while a car is out on the street. Checking to be sure they're properly aligned, even just once a week, can make a big difference in being able to see. Also, checking blind spots before getting into a vehicle, and again before making any sudden movements, is always good idea.

Regardless of how you do it, making sure your blind spots are addressed when driving a vehicle of any size can not only save you money and insurance headaches, it may just save a life.

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July 21st, 2010 by

A lot of teenagers yearn for the day when they will turn 16. It's the magic age when they get the license to drive. But are they ready for it?

Parents, it is your responsibility to make sure the answer is “Yes.” Insist that your teenager follow safe driving practices from the get-go. This can be done by setting a good example for them when you are behind the wheel. You should also set some ground rules before handing over the keys.

A good place to start is with a conversation about why it's so important to make the car a "no cell phone zone." According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) analysis of 120 cell phone studies, drivers on the phone typically have decreased reaction times and travel speeds, as well as increased lane deviations and steering wheel movements. They are also involved in a lot of accidents.

A National Safety Council report published in January 2010, estimates that 1.4 million crashes are caused each year by drivers talking on cell phones. Drivers who are texting and driving are blamed for 200,000 accidents annually. Alarmingly, the highest incidence of distracted driving occurs among drivers under the age of 20.

Realizing how serious the problem is, seven states now prohibit drivers from using hand-held cell phones in the car. Twenty-one states prohibit texting while driving. Those caught in violation could face stiff fines.

But cell phones aren't the only distraction teen drivers need to be concerned about. Among the other distractions that have led to accidents:

* Operating or adjusting the radio and other accessories.

* Reading, talking and daydreaming.

* Eating while driving.

* Looking for an address.

* Distractions caused by passengers in the vehicle.

* Road distractions such as a crash in the next lane, an automated highway sign or an approaching emergency vehicle.

*Grooming on-the-go – using an electric razor, applying cosmetics, painting nails, etc.

In addition to informing teenage drivers about the dangers such activities present, another way to encourage your son or daughter to be responsible behind the wheel is to require him or her to pay for auto insurance. The first year a teen driver is added to their parents' car insurance policy, you can expect the additional cost to range anywhere from $500 to $3,000. But for every year the teen driver remains accident-free, the rates can go down significantly.

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July 21st, 2010 by

Automobile owners know that it's not a matter of if something will go wrong, but a matter of when. But wouldn't it be nice to know that the next time your car won't start or you get a flat, help is on the way?

That's where a roadside rescue service comes in. For an annual fee – which is often quite affordable – you can join a rescue service, or auto club, as they are often called. Rather than having to search for an auto shop when you have something go wrong, you can call a 24-hour helpline that will get you in touch with someone who can help.

Here are a few features to look for when selecting an auto club:

* Roadside assistance. This is probably the most compelling reason to join an auto club. When looking for a roadside rescue service, make sure it has a 24-hour helpline so you can get help any time you need it. Most assistance providers will be able to help if you get a flat tire, need a tow, lock yourself out of your car or run out of gas. If you are shopping around and getting auto insurance quotes, ask your provider if they also offer roadside assistance. For example, Allstate offers memberships to the Allstate Motor Club starting at $48 per year. It's yet another thing to consider as you look for car insurance.

* Travel discounts. Many auto clubs partner with hotels, restaurants and other businesses to offer discounts you can take advantage of when traveling. You can check out what your club offers on its website or other materials provided to you, or ask the hotel or restaurant when you make reservations.

* Trip planning. If you're planning a vacation, check with your auto club to see if they provide maps or other travel guides, as many of them also provide this free service.

For more information on the Allstate Motor Club and free car insurance quotes, visit Allstate.com.

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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – Gas is pretty expensive so you certainly don't want to waste it. But millions of U.S. drivers waste gas by the gallon every day by driving on under-inflated tires.

Fewer than 8 percent of vehicles have four properly inflated tires, according to a Rubber Manufacturers Association-sponsored national tire pressure survey. Worse, at least 20 percent of vehicles were found to have at least one tire under-inflated by at least 8 psi.

Driving on under-inflated tires can significantly affect fuel economy and safety. The U.S. Department of Energy says that properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 3.3 percent and help you save 9 cents per gallon at the pump. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) estimates that under-inflated tires contribute to more than 600 fatalities and 33,000 injuries a year.

To help keep your car and tires road-worthy, make sure you check your tire pressure at least once a month and before every long trip (including the spare). Keep tire pressure at the level recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

Under-inflation creates excessive stresses and heat and may lead to tire failure that could result in vehicle damage and serious injury or death.

Another problem to watch out for is tires and wheels that are out of balance or misaligned, which can cause uneven wear or vehicle problems. Have your alignment checked periodically and rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to help get the most miles from your tires.

Be tire smart – play your “P.A.R.T.” That stands for pressure, alignment, rotation, and tread, which are the key elements of monthly tire maintenance.

* Pressure: Check tire pressure monthly before you drive with a tire gauge and inflate to vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure.

* Alignment: Misalignment of wheels can cause uneven and rapid tread wear.

* Rotation: Rotate every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to help you achieve more uniform wear.

* Tread: Bald tires are dangerous. Insert a penny, head first, into the tread groove. If you see all of Lincoln's head, it's time for a new tire.

For more information visit RMA's website at www.betiresmart.org.

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July 21st, 2010 by

(ARA) – It's the new drinking and driving — and for good reason. As Americans become more addicted to their cell phones, BlackBerry devices and other PDAs, lawmakers throughout the nation are taking action in the wake of a disturbing national trend linking cell phone use with car crashes.

The National Highway and Traffic Safety Agency (NHTSA) reports the use of cell phones and other mobile devices now accounts for 25 percent of all police-reported traffic crashes. Research shows that driving while talking, texting or e-mailing with a cell phone or PDA can pose a serious distraction and interfere with driving a motor vehicle.

As a result of the growing number of cell phone-related car accidents, more states are pushing for legislation to ban cell phone use while operating a motor vehicle, according to FindLaw.com, the Internet's leading Web site for legal information. States that have banned the handheld use of cell phones by drivers include California, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Utah and Washington as well as the District of Columbia.

The facts are especially alarming for teenagers, for whom driving-related incidents are the leading cause of death. According to an NHTSA report, more than 50 percent of teens admit to talking or texting on a cell phone while driving. At least 20 states, including Texas, currently ban any kind of cell phone use by teenage drivers, says FindLaw.com.

Because of the alarming trend linking cell phone use and driving, the National Safety Council has gone even further by calling for a complete ban on the use of all cell phones, including “hands-free” devices, for drivers nationwide.

Any activity a driver engages in while driving has the potential to distract the motorist from the primary task of operating the vehicle. A distraction is defined by any event or action that takes your eyes off the road (visual), mind off the road (cognitive), or takes your hands off the steering wheel (manual). Some research findings compare cell phone use to other activities such as passenger conversations or changing a CD while driving.

For example, studies have shown that cell phone use compared to carrying on a conversation with a passenger can be equally risky, while other studies show cell phone use to be more risky. The difference between the two is a passenger can monitor the driving situation along with the driver and pause for, or alert the driver to, potential hazards, whereas a person on the other end of the phone line is unaware of the roadway situation.

But what if a driver encounters an emergency situation or witnesses another driver's erratic driving? As a general rule, if you are in your car and witness a car accident or another emergency, pull your vehicle over to a safe location and call 911.

However, in emergency situations drivers must use their judgment regarding the urgency of the situation and the necessity to use a cell phone while driving. The key here is to avoid creating another emergency because you're using your cell phone.

In addition to using a cell phone, there are many other distractions that can increase the risk of losing control of your vehicle, according to FindLaw.com. Some activities that appear to be “hands free,” such as looking at a GPS map screen, can be just as distracting as navigating a car while eating a hamburger. According to a study by the NHTSA and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of near crashes involve some form of driver distraction.

The study further concluded that the typical distraction occurred within three seconds before the vehicle crash. The bottom line is that drivers who engage more frequently in distracted driving are more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle accident or near crash. Some common distractions that should be avoided include:

* Eating while driving, including unwrapping food products.

* Changing a CD or adjusting the radio.

* Applying make-up.

* Settling a dispute between children.

* Controlling a loose pet.

* Reading a print map or watching a GPS map screen while driving.

* Looking at an object or event outside of your car, like another accident.

It is also important to keep in mind that some activities are carried out more frequently and for longer periods of time and may result in greater risk. The primary responsibility of the driver is to operate a motor vehicle safely. The task of driving requires full attention and focus. Cell phone use can distract drivers from this task, risking harm to themselves and others. Therefore, the safest course of action is to refrain from using a cell phone while driving.

To learn more about cell phone use and driving laws, visit www.findlaw.com.

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