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Not A Film Maker No Problem We Buy Cars!

Can Going Viral Help Sell Your Car?



If you've been on the internet lately, you might have come across a hilariously over-the-top car commercial that's been making rounds. It's a high-end, cinematic masterpiece... for a not-so-high-end car. The filmmaker behind this viral sensation really went all out to showcase his girlfriend's 'crappy used car'. Now, while we can't all have a professional filmmaker in our lives to make our used cars look like the star of a blockbuster movie, there's still hope!


The Dilemma: Selling Your Car Without The Hollywood Flair


Let's face it, not everyone has a filmmaker friend ready to shoot an epic commercial for your used car. Most of us are stuck with mediocre photos and descriptions that barely get a second glance from potential buyers. It's like trying to sell a script in Hollywood without a star actor – tough, right?

  • Common Challenges in Selling Used Cars

  • Lackluster Photos and Descriptions

  • Limited Reach to Potential Buyers

  • Time-Consuming Negotiations

  • Uncertainty in Pricing


Our Solution: We Buy Your Car, No Glam Needed!


We believe every car deserves its moment, even without the glitz and glamour of a film set. So, if you're sitting there thinking, "I wish I could make my car look that good," worry no more! We're here to take that ordinary car off your hands, with a process as smooth as a movie premiere red carpet.


Why Choose Us?

  • Hassle-Free Experience: Forget about the stress of finding buyers.

  • Fair Pricing: We offer competitive prices, ensuring you get a fair deal.

  • Quick & Easy: No need for fancy videos or ads; we keep it simple.

The Humorous Twist: No Epic Ad, No Problem!


Imagine trying to direct a car commercial with your not-so-photogenic car. The wind machine blows away your for-sale sign, the sun glare is blinding, and let's not even talk about trying to make that engine purr sound like a luxury car. It's a comedy skit waiting to happen! But here, the only drama we love is in the movies, not in car selling.


Closing: Roll Credits on Your Car Selling Woes


In the end, you might not have a viral video to your name, but you'll have something even better – a stress-free car selling experience. So, let the filmmakers stick to their day jobs, and let us buy your car today!

Do We Really Need Car Touch Screens

Do we really need car touch screens?

Car touch screens are becoming increasingly common in new cars and offer a way to control various systems such as the radio, temperature controls and more with ease. However, the question remains: do we really need them?

The Pros

There are certainly benefits to having car touch screens. For one, they make it possible to control everything from music to air conditioning without ever taking your hands off the wheel. This can be incredibly convenient, especially on long drives.

The Cons

But there are also downsides to car touch screens. They can be dangerously distracting, particularly if you’re not familiar with all their features and where they’re located. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can be risky and potentially fatal.

Minimizing Distractions

Some car manufacturers are addressing these concerns by designing touch screens that can disappear into the dashboard when they’re not in use. Other features that minimize driver distraction include voice controls, heads-up displays that project images onto the windshield, and gesture controls.

Conclusion

In the end, it’s up to individual drivers to determine whether or not car touch screens are right for them. If you can use them without taking your eyes off the road, then they can be a valuable asset. But if you find them distracting, it might be best to stick with traditional buttons and knobs.

I Can See Clearly Now The Fog Is Gone

The Safe Way to Defog Your Windshield

Driving with a clear view is not just a matter of convenience; it's a critical safety necessity. A fogged-up windshield can transform an ordinary drive into a perilous endeavor, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. When visibility drops, so does your ability to respond to road conditions and hazards.

We'll dive into the science behind windshield fog and offer practical, safety-first techniques to ensure you maintain the clearest view possible. Whether you're facing the early morning chill or the humid evening return from work, understanding how to quickly and safely defog your windshield is key to a safe journey. Let's clear things up.

Understanding Windshield Fog

Why Windshields Fog Up:
Imagine your vehicle as a contained climate system. The warm air, cozy from your car’s heating system or simply from passengers, confronts the cold surface of the glass and rapidly cools down, shedding its moisture as condensation. This process results in a fine mist of droplets clinging to the inside of your windshield, scattering light and obscuring your view.

Understanding the Risks:
Compromised visibility due to fogged glass is a serious safety hazard. Inadequate visibility means you are less likely to notice pedestrians, other vehicles, and road signs in time to react appropriately. It's essential for the safety of yourself and others to maintain a clear windshield and ensure full visibility at all times.

Preventative Measures

Anticipating fog before it happens can help you maintain a clear windshield and improve safety. Here are some measures to prevent your windshield from fogging:

Ventilate Your Vehicle:
To prevent condensation, it’s beneficial to allow the interior of your car to ventilate, especially overnight. Leaving your windows slightly open can balance the inside and outside temperatures, reducing the likelihood of fog formation.

Regular Maintenance Checks:

  • Cabin Air Filters: Keep your cabin air filters clean to ensure adequate airflow, which is vital for effective defogging.

  • HVAC System: Regular checks on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system can help prevent fogging by ensuring it operates efficiently.

Pre-emptive Climate Control:
Before exiting your vehicle, switch to fresh air mode to expel moist air and cool the interior, reducing the chance of fogging when the vehicle is next used.

Defogging Techniques for Safety

When faced with a fogged windshield, you need to act fast, but always with safety in mind. Here’s what to do:

  1. Start Your Engine: Before driving, start your car and begin the defrost cycle to enhance visibility.

  2. Use the Defroster: Engage the defroster to warm the windshield and evaporate condensation.

  3. Adjust the Airflow: Direct vents towards the windshield and side windows to disperse the fog.

  4. Temperature Settings: Adjust the temperature to match the exterior conditions—warm to counteract cold, cool for warmth.

  5. Activate the A/C: Use the air conditioning to dehumidify the cabin and clear the fog faster.

  6. Turn Off Recirculation: Switch off the recirculation to allow dry outside air to enter the vehicle.

Safety Tips While Defogging:

  • Do Not Drive Blindly: Ensure at least partial visibility before starting to drive and pull over if visibility is impaired while driving.

  • Use Wipers: Utilize your windshield wipers to clear external condensation.

  • Window Cracking Technique: Slightly open windows to balance the internal and external climate, aiding the defogging process.

  • Manual Wiping: If necessary, use a clean microfiber cloth to manually clear the fog.

  • Regular Cleaning: Maintain a clean windshield to prevent excessive fogging.

Remember, arriving safely is more important than arriving on time. It's better to delay your trip momentarily than to drive with obscured visibility.

Choosing the Right Products

Using the appropriate products is crucial for effective defogging and safety. Here are some recommendations:

  • Anti-Fog Solutions: Opt for automotive-specific products like Stoner Invisible Glass Anti-Fog or Rain-X Anti-Fog, which prevent moisture build-up on the glass.

  • Cleaning Solutions: Use automotive glass cleaners designed for vehicle interiors that do not leave residues.

  • Cloths and Tools: Employ microfiber cloths for their lint-free and streak-free properties, and keep a squeegee handy for quick moisture removal.

Safety Considerations:

  • Test products on a small area of the glass to ensure they do not obstruct visibility.

  • Confirm that the products used do not interfere with windshield sensors or cameras, especially in vehicles with ADAS.

 

Be proactive in maintaining your vehicle's defogging capabilities. Keep the necessary tools on hand, regularly check your car's systems, and pull over if your visibility is compromised. Remember, safe driving is not just about reacting to conditions; it's about being prepared for them. Drive safely, stay visible, and enjoy the clarity of your journey.

6 Costly Car Repairs That Are Totally Avoidable

Little Mistakes That Can Lead To Big Car Repair Bills

Disclaimer: Nothing in this article should be taken as a replacement for following your owners manual or the advice of a certified mechanic. These tips are a culmination from various sources widely available on the internet.

As anyone who’s ever owned a car knows, they are a huge financial responsibility. Aside from the initial purchase price, there’s insurance, gasoline, and of course, repairs and maintenance.

While some car repairs are unavoidable, there are others that are totally avoidable if you take proper care of your vehicle. Here are a few of the most costly car repairs that are avoidable with some simple preventive maintenance.

Never Ignore The Check Engine Light

Ignoring the check engine can lead to major engine damage that could have easily been avoided had the problem been addressed immediately. There are many reasons the light comes on such as a loose gas cap, bad oxygen sensor, or failed catalytic converter.

Failing To Replace The Battery When Needed

Depending on the battery's condition, most last anywhere from three to five years. If you're still driving on the original battery that came with the car, chances are it needs to be replaced. Modern vehicles are full of electronic features that put a strain on the electrical system, and an old battery will struggle to keep up.

If your battery is drained, it will take longer for your starter to turn over. Your vehicle now draws more electricity, and the alternator kicks in to throw additional amps at the battery in order to recharge it. All those things drawing current can be affected by the spikes and lows over time.

It's easy to eliminate a lot of electrical problems by replacing the battery when needed

Not Maintaining Proper Fuel Level.

Electric fuel pumps are located in the fuel tank. Running the pump dry can damage it. The debris from the bottom of the tank will also get into the fuel filter and clog it. This will reduce fuel flow to the engine and cause all sorts of drivability problems.

If you allow the fuel level to constantly run lower than a quarter tank full, you run the risk of having  to replace the fuel pump sooner than necessary. It sounds weird but gasoline has a cooling effect on the fuel pump, and running low all the time could potentially shorten its lifespan

Unnecessary Transmission Flushes

If you know the history of your car, it may be okay to do transmission flushes just as your preventative maintenance suggests. However If you don't know the history and the car is running fine, then you might reconsider getting it done.

When you fill your car with new transmission fluid, it has specially designed detergent in it to keep a transmission clean. The issue is that it can break loose debris already present in the transmission resulting in a clogged filter. If the filter gets clogged, it will restrict fluid flow and cause all sorts of problems.

Not Using The Proper Tire Size

Whether it's a spare tire or just buying tires not rated for your vehicle, putting the wrong size tire on your car will cause problems. The spare tire is rated for a limited amount of miles and speed, so you should only use it in an emergency situation.

When you drive with mismatched tire sizes, it can cause the vehicle's differential to think that the smaller tires are slipping. It then tries to compensate by sending more power to the wheels, which can cause even more tire slippage and eventually lead to differential failure.

Kicking Ice & Sludge To The Curb

You may just do it without thinking but kicking ice and sludge off your car's bumper, fender and doors can cause cracks or damage to plastic moldings. Think about it this way. When the temperature gets below freezing plastic can become very brittle.

So if you're tempted to kick your bumper, Don't. It could easily crack and need to be replaced. The same goes for plastic moldings and door handles. If possible wait for warmer temperatures, spray it off with a high pressure water nozzle at a car wash or just gently use a soft bristle brush.

Road Trip Anyone

You Might Go On Vacation But Car Maintenance Never Should

As we enter the dog days of Summer, family vacations and long road trips become top priorities. But even if you're taking a break from your regular routine, car maintenance should never be put on the back burner.

Getting Prepared To Go

Before hitting the open road, be sure to give your car a once-over to make sure everything is in working order. This includes checking your engine oil, coolant levels, tires, and brakes.

If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, or if you notice anything out of the ordinary, it's always best to take your car to a professional for a thorough inspection.

Once you're on the road, be sure to keep an eye on your vehicle's gauges and warning lights. If anything pops up, don't ignore it! Pull over at the next safe opportunity and check out what's going on.

Don't Sweat or Let The Small Things Bug You

Summer is also a good time to check other items and systems in your car such as the air conditioning, wiper blades, and washer fluid levels. These are all things that you'll be using frequently during the hotter months, so it's important to make sure they're in good working order.

You never know when you might be driving and you get a heavy downpour or you have to clear away some bugs, so it's always best to be prepared.

Always Have A Backup Plan

In general we have become used to using the GPS system on our phones to get us where we need to go. But what happens if you're driving in an unfamiliar area and your phone dies or you lose service?

That's why it's always a good idea to have a physical map on hand as well as a backup plan for directions. It might seem old-fashioned, but there's nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere with no way to get home.

If you're going to be driving in unfamiliar territory or in remote areas, be sure to let someone know your route and estimated time of arrival. That way, if something does happen, someone will know where to start

And last but not least, always remember to drink plenty of water and take breaks often when driving during the summer months. Heat exhaustion is no joke, and it can happen to anyone. So stay hydrated, stay alert, and most importantly, enjoy your summer

Old Car Technology That Is Now Considered Standard

Car Technology Advancements That Make Life Easier For Drivers

Are you old enough to remember when air conditioning and powered windows were optional car features? How about when you had to manually unlock your doors? If you are, then you've seen firsthand how far car technology has come in just a few decades.

Nowadays, we can't imagine owning a vehicle without them. In fact, new cars are loaded with all sorts of tech gadgets and creature comforts that make the driving experience more enjoyable. Here are just a few of the car tech advancements that have made life easier for drivers.

Automatic Climate Control

Curbside Classic

"Cadillac released Comfort Control, the world’s first fully automatic climate control system in 1964. This system is an amazing accomplishment and a reminder of how GM and Cadillac really once were the standard of the world"

If you wanted that type of luxury you had to pay a pretty penny for it. Nowadays, you can find automatic climate control in even the most basic of cars. This feature keeps the temperature at a preset level, so you don't have to adjust it every time the weather changes.

Cruise Control

Another oldie but goodie is Cruise Control. Great for long road trips when you don't want to wear your foot out by constantly pressing the gas pedal. It also helps you save on gas. Just set your desired speed and the car will maintain a consistent speed, as long as you keep your foot off the brake.

Wikipedia

"Modern cruise control (also known as a speedostat or tempomat) was invented in 1948 by the blind inventor and mechanical engineer Ralph Teetor.[4][5] He came up with the idea due to being frustrated by his driver's habit of speeding up and slowing down as he talked."

Heated and Cooled Seats

Another comfort feature that has become standard in many new cars are heated and cooled seats. This is a welcome addition for those who live in climates with extreme temperatures. Heated seats warm you up on cold days, while cooled seats keep you cool on hot days.

Backup Cameras

Did you know that backup cameras originated in 1956? Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Backup cameras are a lifesaver, literally. They help you avoid accidents by giving you a clear view of what's behind you when you're in reverse.

Wikipedia

"1956 Buick Centurion concept car, presented in January 1956 at the General Motors Motorama. The vehicle had a rear-mounted television camera that sent images to a TV screen in the dashboard in place of the rear-view mirror."

If you've ever tried to parallel park in a tight spot without one then you know what a pain it can be. a backup camera can be a lifesaver.

Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 - The Day Backup Cameras Became Standard

Car And Driver

"If you’re shopping for a new vehicle and it doesn’t have a backup camera or the feature costs extra, then it was built before Tuesday, May 1st, 2018. That’s when the safety device became standard on all vehicles made for the American market."

Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Keyless Entry and Start

Just like other car technology , keyless entry and start has been around for a while but it's only recently that it has become standard in new cars. This feature allows you to unlock and start your car without ever having to take your keys out of your pocket.

What Car Technology Is Next To Become A Standard Option?

Here are some other options that are starting to move their way from the luxury category into the mainstream. The average car buyer may not be able to afford all of these features right now, but eventually, they may become standard.

1. Automatic braking

2. Lane departure warning

3. Blind spot monitoring

4. Park assist systems

5. Adaptive cruise control

6. Heads-up displays

One of the most popular car technology trends is the inclusion of hands-free capabilities, such as Bluetooth and voice-activated controls. This allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still being able to control.

Do you have a car with outdated technology?

It might be time to trade it in. You deserve the latest technology in your car – and we can help make that happen. We have a huge selection of cars to choose from, and we’ll make sure the process is easy for you.

Cars Get Cold Too

How To Check Your Antifreeze

It may not cross most people's minds, but checking your car's antifreeze protection level is an important part of regular maintenance. Anti-freeze helps protect your car from damage caused by cold weather, and keeping it at the proper level could save you from costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will show you how to check your car's antifreeze protection level and what to do if it needs to be adjusted.

What You Need

Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:

  • An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.

  • Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.

  • Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.


Step 1: Locate The Reservoir

The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top (as seen in Figure 1). There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding! 

Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze

Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top (Figure 2). Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures (see Table 1 below). Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with paper towel or rag. 


Step 3: Storing The Tester

After testing, take a ziplock bag and store your anti-freeze tester in it until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don't forget - always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!   


Checking your car's antifreeze protection level doesn't have to be difficult or complicated; with these simple steps anyone can do it themselves! With regular testing every few months, you'll know exactly how well protected against extreme cold temperatures your vehicle really is - potentially saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs down the line!


10 Tips for Buying Your First Car


10 Tips for Buying Your First Car

 

One of the biggest, most daunting milestones every driver faces in life is buying a first car.

Of course, getting to this point is enough of a challenge; you’ve spent hours upon hours learning to drive, taking your test (likely multiple times), and finally received your license. You’ve observed other drivers, you’ve familiarized yourself with the rules of the road, and you’ve proven to be a safe, reliable person behind the wheel.


However, once all those key steps are out of the way, the process of purchasing your own vehicle can seem long and difficult. If you’ve gotten used to sitting behind the wheel of a parent or friend’s car, having to jump to a new vehicle, one which you’re completely responsible for, might seem to be a big step. It doesn’t have to be, though. With enough research, thought, and help, buying your own set of wheels and hitting the road can be easier, and more fun, than you expect.

 

Following this list of 10 tips will help to make buying your first car simpler than ever.

 

1. Decide on a Budget

This might sound obvious, but if you’re not careful about establishing a budget early in the process, you could end up falling in love with cars you simply can’t afford, but can’t say no to, either. Deciding on a budget means thinking rationally and realistically, focusing on how much you can afford each month, and what impact this additional expense will have on your overall finances.

 

Said impact will vary depending on your current personal and financial situation. Are you still in school or college right now? If so, chances are you’ll be living on loans and/or a part-time job, though money may still be tight. On the other hand, if you’re working full-time, you should have access to a little more cash. But just because you have full-time employment doesn’t mean you can go for the most expensive car at the dealership. You need to also consider whether your circumstances are likely to change in the near future. If you are in a relationship, are you and your partner planning to get married or have kids? Do you want to make sure you still have money to save every month for vacations, house deposits etc., or are you happy to make your car the key expense instead? All of these factors have to be considered, as do other expenses related to the car, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance.

 

2. Focus on Function Rather than Form

Following on from our first point, it’s vital to limit your focus to the cars your budget will realistically allow for. You might well convince yourself that the flashiest, sleekest, coolest car you’ve seen at a high-priced dealership somehow falls into your affordability range, but you’re only setting yourself up for disappointment.

 

It’s natural to fantasize about cruising in the kind of vehicle a Hollywood star would drive, but you need to focus on the most important features rather than how cool you’ll look. Work out how much you can afford to pay each month, keeping in mind the insurance and upkeep costs, and search for vehicles that fall within this range only. Don’t torture yourself by trying to work out how many other jobs you need to get to afford that lush car.

 

Don’t be afraid to make your first car all about function rather than form; the time may come in the future where you can upgrade to the one you’ve dreamed about. Until then, though, a cheaper, simpler car is the better choice, and it will leave you with more money for other expenses that my pop up throughout the month.


3. Identify the Essentials

To help refine your choice even further, you should spend a little time considering your practical needs compared with your wants. Think about the type of lifestyle you lead, the environments you drive through, and the responsibilities you have. Are you likely to face tough terrain or will you be on smooth highways most of the time? Will you need to drive in wet or icy conditions often, or do you live in a warmer climate all year round? Do you have to cover long distances every day, or make short trips instead?

 

The answers to the above questions will help you determine the type of vehicle you need. If you expect to make long drives on a daily or regular basis, you should invest in the most fuel-efficient car you can afford, rather than a gas-guzzler that’s going to up your monthly expenses. Likewise, if you will be driving on challenging terrain, you’ll need a car that’s built for the great outdoors rather than a less-robust vehicle designed with only the city in mind. This all might sound like a lot of thought for a first car, but once you identify your essentials, the process will get a lot easier.

 

4. Put Time into Your Research

Once you have a fair idea in mind of the kind of first car you need, you should go online and start researching the particulars of your target vehicles. Look at the typical prices you can expect to pay, and what sort of financial plans are available for them. There are plenty of websites that provide these details, like Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds, so take your time and try to find out as much as you can.

 

The more you know about the costs associated with certain types of vehicles and the various models available, the more you can continue to identify possible choices. Don’t be afraid to scour forums to look at the opinions of other drivers, and see how people with similar lifestyles and budgets to yours handle their purchase. If you’re looking into a used car, read up on the information surrounding them and what type of warranty you should expect. If you have a list of potential first car models or styles with you when you start approaching dealerships, you can save time and make the buying process far simpler.

 

5. Find a Dealership You Can Trust

You may have a wide choice of dealerships in your town or city. Perhaps you drive past several on your way to work, or live locally to a number of different businesses. Of course, you might have never been near a dealership in your life and have no idea how they operate. This also, is something you should check out online, to make sure you’re familiar with the buying process.

 

Look up the dealerships local to you, and investigate their customers’ feedback. Have they been in business long? Are there many satisfied buyers sharing their experiences, or do the majority of customers warn others away? Financial plans are another important factor. Certain dealerships provide buyers with instant approval for an auto loan, regardless of your credit rating. The credit score you have will affect how specific lenders see you; if you have a good or excellent rating, there’s unlikely to be a problem, but a poor score could make securing financing a bit more challenging. Look into which dealerships have in-house financing, and whether they accommodate first-time buyers with little or no credit history behind them.

 

6. Request a Test Drive

Taking your potential first car for a test drive can mean all the difference between finding the perfect vehicle versus eventual disappointment. The car may look great and have decent specs, but you won’t know for sure how suitable it is until you actually get behind the wheel for the first time. Most dealerships will allow you to take any car you’re interested in for a test drive; after all, they want to make sure you stay satisfied after you drive away from their dealership, and eventually come back as a repeat customer.

 

Ideally, your test drive should take place in the conditions you expect to be driving in. There’s no use buying a car that doesn’t handle on wet or icy roads too well when that’s exactly why you need it, nor do you want to invest in a model that consumes more gas than you can afford. Your sales person will be looking to help you find the ideal car for your budget and needs, so be honest about your expectations and requirements.

 

7. See if the Price Can Be Negotiated

Don’t be afraid to see how much leeway there is on your preferred car’s price. One useful tactic is to look up other local dealerships and see if they sell the car or cars you’re interested in, and compare the costs. If one is cheaper than the other, you can bring this up and see if they’re open to negotiation.

 

Not every dealership will be willing to take money off, of course, but some may, especially if they can see that you’re serious about making the purchase. If they can’t, or won’t drop the overall price, they may throw in some freebies or discounts to help ease your financial strain. If they are willing to discuss the price, though, just asking may be enough to start making deals.

 

8. Be Curious

Buying your first car is a big step, but be wary of anyone trying to take advantage of your inexperience and make a quick buck. You should be willing to ask questions and ensure you feel completely satisfied with a car before you agree to hand over any money, and sign a contract.

 

If you’re buying a new car, you don’t need to find out about the car’s previous usage and whether any major repairs have been performed, but you do need to get that information if you’re looking to get a pre-owned vehicle. Generally, whether from a used or new car dealership, pre-owned cars are checked and maintained to a high standard before being put out for sale, especially at the most reputable dealerships. And it’s essential to ask important questions about fuel efficiency, key features, and after-care services.

 

9. Ask Someone Experienced to Shop with You

One quick, simple way to make buying your first car much easier is to ask an experienced driver to accompany you on your search; maybe a friend, a relative, or a colleague. Whoever it is should know a thing or two about buying vehicles, about what it costs to keep one running and in good condition, and any potential warning signs to watch out for. If they can bring that knowledge with them to the dealership, you can let them steer discussions with the sales person and learn about the process.

 

Having someone experienced alongside you can be a real confidence-booster too, encouraging you to ask questions, negotiate prices, and generally make sure the car you buy is the perfect one for your needs and budget.

 

10. Take Your Time

When all is said and done, though, you should avoid rushing into buying your first car as much as you possibly can. Depending on your situation and responsibilities, this may be easier in theory than practice. After all, if you have a child on the way, or have other specific transportation needs, having a car may make life much easier, allowing you to avoid the challenges of taking public transportation. And if you have a long commute to and from work every day, having your own vehicle can help you save money and avoid frustrating delays. In cases like these, investing in a first car may be somewhat urgent, but if you can afford to wait until you find the ideal vehicle, do so. If you let yourself get pressured into buying the first possibility you come across, you may find yourself regretting it down the line.

 

Your first car is a special purchase, and you should feel proud and happy with your choice.

Don’t spend any money until you know you have the right car for your budget, lifestyle, and responsibilities. This should be an exciting time in your life, as you discover the independence and convenience that your own set of wheels brings, so try to make the most of it. After all, you’ll only get to buy your first car once.

 

We, at Citi Auto Group, believe these tips should give you all the information you need to make buying your first car much easier. Our staff is always available to answer any questions you may have, and to help you find the best vehicle that fits your needs and budget. Feel free to stop by our dealership, check out our inventory, our financing options, and test drive any cars you may be interested in.

 

 

 

 

 

Thanksgiving Dinner for a Family in Need

Citi Auto Group to Give Away Thanksgiving Dinner to a Family in Need

 

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 3 – Citi Auto Group, which offers the very best deals on a fine selection of pre-owned vehicles to families across the entire Delaware Valley, is now giving a complete Thanksgiving dinner to a Philadelphia family in need.

 

“As a resident and native Philadelphian, myself and the entire team here at Citi Auto Group are committed to giving back to this great city that we love so much," says Joe, owner, Citi Auto Group. It is the first time the company is making this gift, which they envision as becoming an annual tradition.

 

Anyone can nominate a family this holiday season by sending an email about the family to citiautogroup1@gmail.com. The deadline for receiving the email is November 15. If you know a deserving family, don’t hesitate to email the team at Citi Auto Group. They’ll be waiting for your nomination.


Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles to Meet Anyone’s Budget

Citi Auto Group is proud to offer a wide range of certified pre-owned vehicles to meet anyone’s needs. The company chooses only the finest used cars and sells them at fair prices. The staff is passionate about what they do and their attention to customer service exemplifies this attitude. With every customer’s best interests at heart, you can be certain that Citi Auto values your business.


Besides choosing your vehicle from Citi Auto, there is financing to consider. But that’s never a problem. Citi Auto offers auto loans to customers, regardless of credit history. Financing is important when it comes to purchasing a vehicle, and we make sure that your credit history never holds you back. We’ll be sure to find a solution that works for you. Remember, at Citi Auto Group, we are dedicated to providing you with the right auto loan, even if your credit history is poor or you have no credit. All applications are accepted.


Dedicated to Customer Service

We take customer service very seriously here at Citi Auto Group. Our team of dedicated professionals is among the best you’ll find anywhere. Day in, day out, we work hard to find the right vehicle and auto loan for you. We can be trusted to understand your wants and needs as a driver and customer. As part of our commitment to customer service, we offer complete and comprehensive warranties to all our customers.


Finally, it’s important to know that we accept all trade-ins, making it easy to transition from your old vehicle to a new one from our pre-owned vehicle selections. We’ve already helped hundreds of people find the ideal vehicle for them while also helping them get the right auto loan. Don’t forget: credit history isn’t a factor at Citi Auto Group. Drop by when you can to choose the right car and auto loan from us. We sincerely look forward to meeting you.  

Get a Car Loan - No Matter Your Credit


Getting an Auto Loan with Bad Credit is Easier Than You Think

For most Americans, a car or truck is vital to everyday life. Having your own transportation empowers you to do exactly the things you need to do, from driving to work and medical appointments, to picking up groceries and getting the kids to and from school. It’s all about independence. It’s about having the freedom to come and go as you please, without having to rely on buses, trains, or rides from others. In short, your own vehicle liberates you from depending on the schedules, or in some cases the kindness, of others.

 

However, if you no longer have a car or truck, or yours is no longer useable, getting back behind the wheel can seem like a daunting prospect. After all, buying a new vehicle doesn’t come cheap, and most Americans must secure a loan to finance their new purchase. It should be simple enough to do, but it may not be; your ability to get an auto loan that’s within your individual budget and lifestyle depends on your credit score. Countless banks and dealerships will only provide you with the loan you need if you have a credit score that meets their requirements.

 

At Citi Auto Group, we aren’t one of them. To help you understand how and why we make getting an auto loan so much easier than the rest, let’s explore credit scores, loans, and everything else you need to know.

 

How a Poor Credit Score Affects You

Credit scores and histories are integral to modern life. Even if you have no idea how they work or what they mean, you no doubt have heard of them, and how important they are.

Personal credit information is collected on individuals by credit bureaus, or credit reporting agencies, who then make that information, in the form of credit reports, available to banks, lenders, and credit card companies. Though the United States is home to several credit bureaus, there are three main ones – Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. While these aren’t owned or operated by any government agencies, they do have to follow regulations set out by the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

 

These bureaus get their information from credit card companies, banks, and companies with which you may hold an account, all contributing to your credit report. Everyone has the right to access their personal credit report, and each of these agencies are obligated to provide one free report to you per year. If you have already requested the free ones you’re entitled to, you can pay a nominal fee to get the latest copy.

 

Credit scores range from between 300 and 850, depending on a number of factors:

  • The timeliness of paying bills
  • Open accounts and the amounts of money owed to each
  • The length of time for which you have borrowed money
  • Types of credit you have in your name (such as mortgages, credit cards etc.)
  • The number of credit applications you make within a short period of time

 

Keeping control of your finances and knowing exactly how your repayments are measuring up on existing loans and credit cards can be difficult, especially if you have many active accounts. However, taking your eye ‘off the ball’ can leave you with late or missed payments, causing your debits to increase over time. You may end up with a poor credit score without realizing it until you apply for a loan. With a low rating, you’ll likely be unable to secure financing for a new vehicle from a bank or most dealerships because they will see you as a high risk. If you have a history of missed or late payments, they will assume you will do the same to them if they give you a loan.

This can leave you without the money you will need for your car or truck purchase, and, as we’ve already discussed, the majority of Americans depend on personal vehicles for their everyday lives. And countless people use their personal cars or trucks for their livelihood too. Perhaps you make deliveries, run a towing business, or something similar; you might not be able to afford to continue your business for too long without your vehicle, so being able to buy a new one can be critical to your livelihood.

 

How Do Credit Scores Work?

Credit scores can be difficult to follow, especially if you’re only provided with the number itself, without any relevant details. Credit scores are the numbers developed by the credit bureaus, based on your specific credit history, that place you in a rating category. The lenders use that score to assess how much of a risk you may be as a potential borrower for them to get their funds back. The credit rating system most people are familiar with is likely to be the FICO score, which is a number between 300 and 850; the higher your score, the more reliable the lenders expect you to be. A ranking is typically assigned to the scores, ranging from bad to excellent:

  

·      Bad – less than 600

  • Poor – 600 to 649
  • Fair/Average – 650 to 699
  • Good – 700 to 749
  • Excellent – 750 and up

  

Obviously, you’re encouraged to have the highest possible score you can, but that’s much easier said than done, of course. Though credit ratings in general have continued to rise, plenty of us may be struggling to get our credit scores under control.

 

How can Getting an Auto Loan Help Boost Your Credit Rating?

Believe it or not, getting an auto loan can boost your credit rating and improve your score over time. But how? Let’s say you take out a loan to make some modifications to your home or to buy new furniture; the amount would be determined by the modifications to be done, or the amount and styles of the furniture. You might need a small loan to cover your costs, but you may decide to take a larger amount to cover the possibility of higher unexpected costs, potentially burdening yourself with payments you struggle to make on time. Being late on your payments could result in late charges and an increase in your interest rate, and your debts may mount up more and more over time.

 

As the costs grow, you’ll find yourself having to measure how your other expenses fit in with this loan; your utility bills, your mortgage or rent, your family dependencies, and more. This can become increasingly stressful, affecting your quality of life, and leaving you with far more money to pay back than you can handle. This isn’t to alarm you, it’s only to illustrate how difficult managing your loan payments can become if you take out an amount that’s too much for your budget and lifestyle. Some lenders may well offer you a bigger loan regardless of how this may affect your personal finances, just so the interest builds, and the payments increase.

 

Assuming your credit score is not very good, but you’re now in a better financial position than you were, taking out an auto loan can be your chance to show how responsible and punctual you can be with your payments. If you could secure an auto loan that’s tailored to your budget, even with that poor credit history, you should be able to keep up with the payments. The number of payments and the payment amount will vary depending on the amount and length of the loan itself, but you must be sure you can meet the payments in a timely manner.

As you continue to make your payments, you will be able to build your credit rating back up. Eventually, you’ll have a repaid loan to your name, a decent score, and a new credit history showing that you’re no longer a high-risk borrower. This will make you far more eligible for other loans and financing plans in the future, establishing a solid foundation upon which to build in years to come.

 

Still, it’s not only those with poor scores who may benefit from an auto loan; it can help people with little or no credit history at all. First-time buyers can find themselves struggling to secure a loan, as they have no way to demonstrate their worthiness or reliability. No credit cards and no charge accounts mean that lenders will have no credit history to draw on. In such cases, they will be unwilling to offer you any financial support at all. Finding an auto loan can be as much of a challenge for those with no credit history, but finding a lender willing and able to help you can make all the difference. Once you have the loan, you’ll be able to build your score with regular, timely payments and showcase your ability to stick to deadlines, meet targets, and manage your finances responsibly.

 

How can Citi Auto Group Help?

At Citi Auto Group, we pride ourselves on providing you with the best possible loans for your current situation. When you come into our dealership, we’ll introduce you to our own in-house financial department. You’ll be able to sit and talk with us about what type of vehicle you need, how much you can afford to pay each month, and more. Once we’re familiar with your expectations and budget, we’ll help you get the perfect vehicle, with a loan that’s right for you. It’s that simple.

 

Citi Auto Group will help you get behind the wheel of a quality used car or truck that’s ideal for your budget. No matter how much your debts may have increased, or your money-worries mounted, we’ll make securing an auto loan quick, simple, and hassle-free. You may think that getting an auto loan is bound to be a major chore, demanding hours to fill in endless forms and subject yourself to all manner of questioning and cross-examination. This may be the case with some lenders, but not us. Don’t let your low credit rating or lack of a credit history put you off coming to us for your auto needs.

 

Our expert team has worked with many customers with poor credit scores; people who initially came to us thinking they would probably be turned away, as they have been elsewhere. Banks and other lenders can be notoriously ruthless, taking your personal financial history as a summary of your entire ability to manage your own money. We prefer to give everyone instant approval and place trust in you to make timely payments that fit your budget. This has proven successful for us and our customers, helping so many people get back on the road without hassle, whether for their personal or business needs.

 

You have a number of options to get started with the application process. You can use the loan calculator on our website, which provides you with a quick, simple way to see how much your monthly payments might be, based on the amount you wish to borrow and the number of years to pay it back. Remember, the longer the term is, the lower your monthly payments will be. Or, you can go right to our application form, which enables you to input the personal and financial information needed for us to evaluate what type of loan would be best for you.

 

Our financial department is experienced helping customers on all budgets, with all vehicle requirements, and can help you get Instant Approval for the financing you need. We have an extensive inventory of quality used cars and trucks from most of the biggest and best manufacturers, with many options available. To learn more about getting a vehicle that matches your needs, and financing you can afford, please feel free to contact us. You can give us a call at 215-744-6901, or drop by our dealership at 4160 Torresdale Avenue, and talk with us in person. Our staff is looking forward to helping you with your new car purchase.

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