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Important things to know about certified pre-owned vehicles

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Posted in How To

If you're in the market for a used car, chances are you've heard the phrase "certified pre-owned" while you've been doing your research. This is the term used to describe used cars that are backed by a guarantee from the manufacturer and the dealer, which is designed to give consumers additional peace of mind when buying used.

But for the uninitiated, navigating the world of certified pre-owned cars and all the implications thereof can be overwhelming. Nobody wants to get burned by a bad decision made from incomplete information. What's really important about buying certified and what do you need to know before you sign on the dotted line?

Here are a few things to keep in mind the next time you're at the dealership. 

"When you consider the benefits that certified cars come with you're likely saving money in the long run."

Expect to pay more – but not much more
One thing that may turn prospective buyers off from purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle is the additional up-front cost usually associated with such a car. While it's true that you are likely to spend more on the day of your purchase buying a certified used car than one without that guarantee, the overall benefit far outweighs the initial investment.

In fact, according to CBS News, a survey that looked at 3.5 million certified used cars sold in 2014 and 2015 found that on average, buyers only paid around $722 more than they would have on cars without certification. When you consider the benefits that certified cars come with – such as extended manufacturer's warranty and a multiple-point inspection before the point of sale – you're likely saving money in the long run.

'Certified' doesn't always mean certified
While certified pre-owned vehicles are becoming more popular, it's important to note that not all cars that bear the title carry the same guarantees. There's a big difference, for example, between a manufacturer-certified car and a dealer-certified one. In general, the former is what you should be looking for, as the extended warranty is typically more extensive.

But how can you tell the difference, especially when dealers aren't advertising it themselves? According to Edmunds, the rule of thumb is this: You can only buy manufacturer-certified vehicles from a manufacturer's franchised dealer. In other words, if you can't buy new models from the dealer, you likely won't be able to find a manufacturer-certified pre-owned vehicle either.

Nothing is perfect
Buying certified is a great way to get the additional peace of mind that can help you feel confident in your used car purchase. But don't let that seal of approval lull you into a false sense of security. Yes, certified pre-owned vehicles undergo significant inspections before they're sold, but that doesn't mean that they're going to be free of problems.

In fact, it may not be a bad idea to have a third-party inspection performed before signing on the dotted line. After all, there's nothing wrong with getting a second opinion, especially with a major purchase like a car that will hopefully be with you for years.

If you're shopping for a used car, head over to NJ State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles available to choose from, giving you the peace of mind that you're making a sound investment in whatever vehicle you choose. 

Keep your car safe this summer with these 3 tips

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Posted in How To

Summer and road trips go hand-in-hand for many. The season is synonymous with freedom, the open road and good times spent with even better friends. Whether you plan out your itinerary stop-by-stop or decide that you're just going to hit the pavement and drive, road trippers have to prepare for spending a lot of time in their cars this season. 

With this in mind, it's important to keep your car not just comfortable, but safe as well. There are a number of car-related hazards you may face, both on the road and elsewhere, that you should be aware of before you get going. Here are a few things to keep in mind this summer to keep everyone safe, happy and comfortable on your big trip.

Get your car inspected before heading out on any major road trips.Get your car inspected before heading out on any major road trips.

1. Don't neglect your maintenance
It goes without saying that keeping your car in tip-top shape should be the No. 1 priority for anyone considering a road trip. This isn't just a last-minute process, either – you should be staying on top of your car's maintenance schedule year-round. After all, it's far easier and cheaper to take a preventive approach to car maintenance rather than a reactive one. This is particularly important for used cars that have more miles on them than newer models.

Be sure to hit all the basics: check your oil, have your tires rotated, check your tires' air pressure and stay current with your tune ups. It's also helpful to schedule a performance check-up with your mechanic before your scheduled departure so you can catch any potential issues before they turn into significant problems.

"It takes just three minutes for a car to heat from 78 degrees to over 100 degrees."

2. Stay cool around kids and pets
Sadly, kids and pets still get left in hot cars during the summer months far more often than they should be. This is due largely to people not being aware of how dangerous excessive heat can be for those stuck inside a car. According to Titan Insurance, it takes just three minutes in the sun for a car to heat from 78 degrees to over 100 degrees, which can seriously endanger children and pets alike.

Whether you're running errands around town or hitting the road for a long trip, don't bring along your kids or pets if you can't bring them with you when you arrive at your destination. You can make this easier by frequenting businesses that offer drive-through services rather than making you go inside. Opening your car's back door whenever you park is a good habit to get into, as that ensures you aren't leaving anyone behind. 

3. Stay safe on the road
Extreme summer heat can pose problems for cars that can lead to dangerous situations while driving. For example, your car's interior can heat up even as you drive if it's in direct sunlight. Try to mitigate the excessive heat in your car by parking in the shade or using a removable screen in your windshield when you park to prevent too much sun from beating in. 

In addition to staying cool yourself, it's also important to keep your engine temperature under control. It's easy for a radiator to overheat in the hot sun, which can leave you in a pickle quickly. You should regularly check your car's coolant, as well as its belts, fans and grille, to keep things under the hood as cool as possible. If you notice that any plastic or rubber components have melted or warped due to the heat, replace them immediately before they become a greater problem down the road. 

If you're looking for the perfect used vehicle for your summer road trip, head over to New Jersey State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles on the lot and a helpful staff ready to assist you with finding the perfect car for your needs. 

What’s the deal with motor oil? [VIDEO]

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Posted in How To, Video

Whether you've been driving for years or just bought your first used car, it's always good to know a bit about what's going on under the hood. Having an idea of how things work and what happens when they don't can save you a lot of headaches and trips to the mechanic. Today, we're going to talk a bit about motor oil: what it is, what it does and what happens when it leaks or needs to be changed.

"Motor oil keeps engines well-lubricated."

Why do cars need oil?
Engines are made of hundreds of metal parts that bump, grind and rub up against one another. Motor oil provides lubrication to prevent excess wear and tear, allowing each part to function as expected as long as possible. Without oil, the engine will not run as smoothly due to all the friction of the hard surfaces colliding without protective barriers. Cars.com pointed out that oil can actually help keep the engine cool as well.

What do all those numbers mean?
If you have had to buy a bottle of oil for your car, you may have been confused by all the numbers and letters defining the different options. So what is the difference between 5W-30 and 10W-40? The specifics behind these numbers have to do with the testing process, but what you really need to know is that the different codes represent different viscosity, or thickness, levels.  Some oils are designed specifically for higher-mileage vehicles and others are made to be used in commercial vehicles with larger engines.

How do you know which to choose?
The type of oil you'll want to use will depend on the kind of used car you drive. Everything from the size of the vehicle to its age and even the time of year can influence which type of oil you'll need. For example, it is better to use a thicker oil in the winter and a thinner one in warmer months. Thankfully, you only need to check the owner's manual to find out what the automaker recommends for your make and model. You can also seek out the advice of an expert when you take your car in for a tune-up or an oil change. 

What should you look for when checking the oil?
The primary reason to check your oil is to ensure there is enough to keep the engine lubricated. Doing so is a simple process that should take more than a few minutes and should be done every month or two. Ideally, you will want to find a decent fluid level and liquid that is golden brown, dark brown or black in color, and free of debris.

Checking the oil is easier than you think.

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Checking the oil also gives you an opportunity to spot potential problems like leaks. If you notice that the level is particularly low, add a quart or two to the tank and check the level again in a few days. You might have a leak if the level has dropped significantly in a short time, and you should see out a mechanic's help. The same advice goes for if you can see flecks of metal or debris in the fluid, as this may mean it's time to replace your oil filter. It could also point to another leak somewhere in the engine.

How often should you change the oil?
Much like the oil type, the frequency of changing it relies on numerous factors. The age and condition of the car will dictate this maintenance schedule. Older cars can often go longer between changes, since their parts tend to be a bit more worn and smoother and they won't require as much lubrication. However, newer models are made with more advanced parts and can last longer than traditional recommendations. The old rule of thumb was to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but more recently, automotive experts have stated that drivers can wait anywhere from 5,000 to 7,500 miles. A professional can provide a more specific range depending on the type of car and its condition.

Google’s autonomous cars may soon be driving to a street near you

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Posted in Auto Industry News

Google has been working on its self-driving cars for years now, and the project has just taken a very prominent step forward. The Internet giant’s own autonomous vehicles are currently roaming the streets of California. Google is testing its prototypes in Mountain View to see how they will handle in real-world situations, and how other drivers will adapt to their new road companions. So far, the results have been fairly promising, potentially even revealing the possibility that these vehicles could be safer than those driven by people.

“The prototype cars can only reach 25 mph.”

Are the cars completely driverless?
While the goal of Google’s efforts is to develop a car that does not even need a person present to operate, the developers are not yet ready to let their cars roam free without a little manpower. Each car is equipped with its own “safety driver” who can take over in a moment’s notice. Since the autonomous cars are intended to operate without having any of the traditional controls – steering wheel, gas pedal and brake pedal – Google installed removable equipment for the safety drivers. The cars are also designed to have a maximum speed of 25 mph, ensuring they will be able to navigate suburban streets as safely as possible.

Is Google really building its own cars?
In initial tests, Google has used Lexus models adapted with the technology, but now it is using its own prototype vehicles, which look at once futuristic and retro, that have been full integrated to support the hardware and tech required for them to operate themselves. The Associated Press reported that while Google unveiled the design of the vehicles last year, the company has not set them loose in public roads until now. These small cars, which have a body similar to that of the Fiat 500 but with far more space-age styling, were designed with the technology in mind. They are small and rounded in shape so the sensors are best able to analyze the environment. The cars, which are entirely electric, seat two passengers and have beacon-like protrusions on the front and top of the body where the lasers, cameras and radars have been placed to best sense the surroundings.

Google is even getting people involved in the testing phase. California residents are able to submit their artwork to be incorporated on the doors of the prototypes. Google wants to focus on the theme of “my community, my neighbors,” and will choose the 10 best submissions to feature on the prototypes. The winners will all get to ride in the vehicles as well.

“Onboard sensors can detect and predict what is going on outside the car.”

How do the cars know how to drive? 
Google has not created a sentient machine, but rather used a variety of technology to gather and analyze data in real time. Using satellite maps, GPS and a number of on-board sensors, the Google driverless cars are able to navigate roads and find their way from point A to point B without any human assistance. The cars are even able to tell which lane they are in and how far they are from other objects like vehicles, pedestrians and road signs. Not only can the processors determine a vehicle’s surroundings, but they are able to predict possible changes, such as other vehicles changing lanes or stopping short, pedestrians crossing the street or cyclists passing by. If necessary, the cars will make adjustments to avoid incidents, whether they have to change lanes, slow down or swerve.

How have Google’s cars been performing so far?
While it’s still too early to know how the Google cars are doing, Google has had its Lexus test fleet driving the roads for a few years already. The AP stated that these earlier iterations of driverless vehicles have only had 13 minor accidents in the few years they’ve been on the open road. Most importantly, the cause of these crashes was never found to be a result of Google’s technology. Only one of the incidents was found to be caused by a driverless car, and even in that one instance, the safety driver had taken over and was behind the wheel when the incident occurred. With such positive results so far, it’s a good sign that Google is on the right track to bringing autonomous cars to the general public.

“Driverless cars could reach showrooms by 2020.”

When will self-driving cars be available to buy?
Unfortunately, it’s impossible to know exactly how soon automakers will start selling self-driving cars. However, CNET reported that this dream may be a reality in the near future, as Ford and Nissan have claimed this technology could reach showrooms as early as 2020. However, at the rate Google is expanding its testing, the possibility of seeing one of its vehicles on East Coast roads is not that far-fetched.

Drivers who want to be the first to relinquish the title of “driver” in one of these cars can start saving now by finding a used car to get around in the meantime. New Jersey State Auto Auction carries plenty of affordable makes and models to choose from. While older models may not be able to drive themselves, newer used cars may have ultra-modern features like parking assist, lane departure warnings and rearview cameras that can let drivers feel like they’re driving into the future.

How to keep your car in top shape all summer [VIDEO]

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Posted in How To, Video

The maintenance your car needs changes with the seasons, and as things heat up it's good to make sure your ride is ready for the summer months. All sorts of things, from longer days to hotter roads, can affect your vehicle this summer. It's good to keep up with maintenance to not only ensure your vehicle will be able to get you to the beach all summer but to prevent major problems that will come with hefty repair bills. Let's take a look at some of the maintenance you can do at home to keep your car running smoothly and safely all summer long and well into fall.

Follow some of these car care tips to have a safe, happy summer.

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Fluids, fluids, fluids
You already know it's important to drink lots of water and stay hydrated under the summer sun, but you might not give the same consideration to your car. It's important to check levels of your windshield washer fluid, oil, transmission fluid, coolant and brake fluid regularly. If the levels are low or if the fluids appear discolored or grainy, it's probably a good idea to schedule a routine check-up with your mechanic. Low levels and particles in fluids could indicate leaks.

What color should my fluids be?
It's good to familiarize yourself with the different types of fluids under the hood of your used car. This way, you'll be able to identify the problem faster if you spot a leak.

  • Windshield washer fluid: Typically bright blue
  • Transmission fluid: Bright red to darker, rusty red
  • Coolant (Antifreeze): Most often bright green, but can also be pink or orange
  • Brake fluid: Pale yellow or clear
  • Oil: Anywhere from golden brown to black, depending on its age

Popular Mechanics also indicated that it's better to use thicker oil, like 10W-30, during the warmer months, as thinner oil like the standard 5W-20 may not provide enough lubrication in the summer heat. Getting an oil change is something you should be doing every few thousand miles anyway, so what better time than in the summer?

"Low tire pressure can increase mileage."

Tires
While typical summer heat won't melt the rubber in your car tires while you're lounging on the beach, that doesn't mean you can ignore your tires until winter. Check the air pressure regularly, adding air when necessary. You can look in your car's user manual to find the correct PSI range you should aim for. Having too little air can decrease your fuel efficiency, and too much air increases the risk of popping a tire and getting into an accident.

It's also good to visually inspect the tires. You will want to take a look at each one. If you notice cracks, tears or uneven wear, you may need to replace or at least rotate your tires. Check the tread to determine the level of wear. You can do this easily with a penny. Simply slip it into one of the treads with Abraham Lincoln's head facing you. If you're able to see more than half of his head, your tires may be a bit too worn down. Worn tires have a harder time gripping the road's surface, especially in inclement weather, so speak to an expert if you're worried about your tires.

Car wash
Washing your car will provide a few benefits, the most prominent of which is that your ride will look great when you cruise along the ocean. A good wax can also help protect your car's exterior from things like UV rays, bugs, sand and debris that can chip and scratch the finish. In addition to cleaning the exterior, you should take the time to clear out any trash or accumulated items from the interior. Use a vacuum to suck up all the sand, and tackle the seats with a shop vac to get the smell of salt water out of your car.

"Wash the windows for better visibility."

You should also clean the surfaces, such as the dashboard, center console and control display. A car that looks and feels clean will be much nicer to drive and make the trip more enjoyable for you and your passengers. Don't forget to give the windows a good wipe-down as well. This final step will make it easier for you to see the road, as there will hopefully be fewer streaks that can crate glares and reduce visibility.

If your car needs a lot of work beyond basic maintenance and minor repairs, however, it could be a good time to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction and start shopping for your next used car. The public auto auction has loads of pre-owned makes and models. Whether you're in the market for a sensible sedan like a Ford Focus or a Toyota Camry, or you'd rather find a luxury car in your budget, NJ Auto Auction is sure to have what you need. The best part is that there are new cars every week, so you're bound to find the model of your dreams.

3 used cars to avoid when shopping for your next ride

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Posted in General Auto News

No matter how stylish, sporty or expensive a car looks on the outside, if it's not safe, reliable or a quality ride, it's not worth any amount of money. A car, new or used, is a significant investment, so you don't want to dedicate a big chunk of change to a vehicle that's going to need loads of maintenance and repairs or one that can't protect you in a crash. If you're going to spend the money, it's essential that you find a vehicle that meets certain industry standards as well as your own requirements.

"Safety isn't the only factor in choosing a reliable ride."

All makes and models are rigorously tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, but a car's worth goes beyond safety. When you're shopping for a used car, you have an advantage over new-car buyers, because the models you're considering have been tested in the real world and you can glean a lot more information about their long-term quality.

In addition to finding a safe used car, you'll also want one that is comfortable to sit in and operate. Something that's too cramped or offers low visibility will drive you crazy by the time you can afford to trade it in for a better model. 

To begin filtering the weak links from your options, avoid these three models:

2014 Mitsubishi i-MiEV 
Electric cars hold a lot of promise and many are doing rather well in the market, but this Mitsubishi fell rather short of that mark. Consumer Reports ranked it among the worst cars of 2014 due to its seven-hour recharge time, shorter-than-average range of 62 miles and unimpressive handling. Despite the automaker touting the i-MiEV's interior features that include a leather steering wheel and heated front seats, the reviewer indicated the design fell far short of impressive and even threw around the words "cheap" and "antiquated" to describe the interior. The model also came in at the bottom of National Auto Dealer's Association's list for value retention, with an average trade-in value of just over $8,000, nearly $6,000 lower than the second worst model, according to Green Car Reports.

The unique design may be the only appealing thing about the i-MiEV.The unique design may be the only appealing thing about the i-MiEV.

2011 Nissan Versa
Among 2011 model year vehicles, the Versa was at the bottom of the list in terms of safety. Forbes reported that this compact car had the worst scores in the NHTSA's tests that year, with an overall score of two out of a possible five stars. It is possible that, due to changes in the testing qualifications that took effect in 2010, the Versa's score may not accurately depict its safety in the real world, but why take chances if there are countless other, much higher-rated options out there? It's also a good model to avoid if you want to carry more than two passengers. Kelley Blue Book pointed out that the interior is anything but roomy, something to be expected of smaller car styles, but certainly worth noting if cabin size is important to you.

2011 Cadillac STS
​Cadillac is often thought to be synonymous with quality and luxury, but the STS doesn't fit this mold. This is the final model year for the discontinued vehicle, and though it sold well when it was released, a few details may make you want to think twice about test driving a pre-owned model. The IIHS tests resulted in the lowest rating for head restraint and seat safety. In fact, the model has gotten a "poor" score consistently since 2005 in this category. The side impact score was only moderately better with an "acceptable rating." According to Forbes, the price tag of the car when it was new was much higher than the quality it offered drivers.

While these cars, among others, may not be the most ideal choices for your next ride, there are still hundreds of models on the used car market that will meet and exceed your expectations. So long as you know what qualifications you want a vehicle to meet and you research your options carefully, you'll be prepared to step onto the lot and find the perfect car. New Jersey State Auto Auction has plenty of different pre-owned models to choose from, and the selection changes weekly.

5 new safety technologies being developed by automakers

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Posted in Audi, Auto Industry News, General Auto News, Mercedes-Benz

One of the major factors driving advancements in automotive technology is the desire for increasingly complex safety features. As it stands, automakers  may still be decades away from having fully autonomous vehicles that leave no room for driver error – because there isn't one. But in the meantime, automakers are coming up with innovative new ways to help keep people safe from their own mistakes and those of other drivers. Here are five of the best new technologies you'll be seeing in cars some time soon.

  1. Gesture recognition
    Many companies have been working on this type of technology for a while now, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and tech giant Microsoft, but Harman International Industries may have beaten them all to the punch. Wired reported that Harman's European division has developed a system that recognizes predefined nods, winks and various hand gestures from the driver. This includes raising and lowering your hand over the gear shaft to change the temperature and tilting your head to the left and right for radio volume control. Recombu, a car news site in the U.K., reported that Harman's system is so advanced it can tell the difference between real gestures and accidental or unintended gestures from the driver. What does all this have to do with safety? Hands-off controls mean fewer distractions for the driver.

    Auto makers are redesigning safety concepts with new technology.Cars of the future will be safer than ever thanks to technological advancements by automakers.

  2. Automatic doze control
    Falling asleep at the wheel is unfortunately a common cause of accidents, especially for truckers who spend long days and nights on the road. Volkswagen is working on a system that takes electronic steering to the next level, according to Popular Mechanics. The system works using a camera and other sensors that detect if the vehicle is experiencing any abnormal drifting patterns. The sensors communicate with a computer that interprets the severity of the situation, and takes control of the steering gear motor, if necessary, to keep the vehicle on a safe path. This technology is far from complete, however – as Popular Mechanics reported, the system cannot yet tell the difference between drifting and casually changing lanes. This will be a more active approach to lane departure warning systems that alert the driver if the vehicle begins drifting into other lanes without a turn signal. You can find various versions of such systems on newer used vehicles.
  3. Automatic sun visor
    Drivers often encounter blinding sun rays that cause them to flip the visor and reach for their sunglasses. But Popular Mechanics reported that Volkswagen is developing an electronic matrix inside the windshield to help block the rays. One sensor focuses on the position of the driver's eyes while the other measures the intensity of sunlight beaming the windshield. The system then creates a dark area where the sunlight meets the driver's eyes that changes with the direction of the vehicle. 

  4. "New airbags will double the car's stopping power."

    Airbags – for the car itself
    How Stuff Works reported that Mercedes is designing an airbag system that helps stop a car when active safety sensors have determined an impact is imminent. The bags deploy beneath the vehicle and are coated with a substance that increases friction and doubles the car's stopping power. They also reduce the dipping motion that occurs as a vehicle is coming to a hard stop. It lifts the car 8 centimeters, which is enough to ease bumper-to-bumper contact and prevent passengers from slipping under their seatbelts. Airbag systems have become increasingly complex over the years, and you can already find plenty of cars with great airbag protection for the interior of the vehicle. 

  5. Crash avoidance systems
    Audi and other car makers already have vehicles on the road that can effectively swerve around a potential collision. But Audi is taking a few more steps in the fully autonomous direction with the zFAS central driver assistance controller, according to Automotive News. The zFAS uses two microchips – one that focuses ahead of the vehicle, and another that monitors areas around the vehicle. This helps determine the safest course of action the computer can take to avoid swerving around one object and prevent potentially colliding with another. The second generation of the zFAS will enable the chips to monitor each other as well, to provide backup in case one fails. Audi is also working with a number of other companies on overlapping sensors, radar systems and cameras to develop a fully comprehensive crash avoidance system. 

While it may be a few years before you start seeing features as advanced as the ones on this list in cars everywhere, rest assured that that they're on the way. As for now, there are plenty of other active safety features you can find in used cars from New Jersey State Auto Auction.

The pros and cons of manual and automatic transmissions

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Posted in General Auto News

If you've ever driven a classic sports car, you've probably experienced the thrill of driving a little too fast while enjoying the power of the machine as you engage the clutch and shift the gears. You may have instead been exposed to a manual transmission when you tried learning to drive in your grandfather's old car – and failed miserably trying to start up a hill. You never could quite get the clutch right, could you?

"Only 3.9% of new cars sold in 2013 had manual transmissions."

But if the latter is the case, it should come as a pleasant surprise that, for the better part of the existence of the combustion engine, car makers and gear-heads alike have been trying to perfect the automatic alternative to the classic manual transmission. In fact, Edmunds reported that only 3.9 percent of all new cars sold in 2013 had manual transmissions, and 67 percent of the 2012 models were only available with automatics.

But despite this industry trend, there are some who will always prefer manual to automatic transmissions for a number of reasons. If you're in the market for a used car, it's likely at some point that you'll have the option of choosing which transmission you would prefer, and there are advantages for both. Understanding the pros and cons of the different transmissions will help you make an informed decision when you're looking for a car. But first, a rundown of the mechanical differences:

What is a transmission?
According to How Stuff Works, all engines have what's known as a "red line," which is the maximum rpm an engine can operate at before it explodes. The transmission changes the gear ratio between the drive wheels and the engine so that the engine continues to operate below the red line as speed increases. Manual transmissions have a set number of gears that the driver shifts between depending on speed and rpm. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, utilize what's called a planetary gear system that allows one set of gears to provide different ratios, according to the source.

The ideal transmission would allow infinitely flexible ratios, allowing the engine to always operate at its best. The continuously variable transmission is a newer form of automatic transmission that seeks to provide this perfect ratio scenario. Advancements in technology have allowed car manufacturers to start incorporating the automatic CVT in newer cars, and that move may help seal the fate of manual transmissions. 
Automatic transmissions utilize a planetary system to maximize available ratios.Automatic transmissions utilize a planetary system to maximize available ratios.

So while this all might sound like a bunch of mechanical jargon, it plays a large part in defining which transmission is actually better. Here are the pros and cons of manual versus automatic transmissions:

Manual pros

  • According to Consumer Reports, manual transmissions can increase mileage by up to 5 mpg in some cases.
  • Vehicles with manual transmissions are often cheaper than automatics by around $1,000. 
  • The New York Daily News reported that manual transmissions are easier to maintain – in general, the clutch is the only part that ever needs to be replaced, and a lot of people would argue that a good driver can make a clutch last a long time. Also, manuals are lubricated with gear oil, which doesn't break down as easily as automatic transmission fluid so it doesn't need to be changed as often, – if at all. 
  • Manual transmissions allow for more control over the vehicle – whereas automatics are constantly pushing the car forward when it's in drive, a manual only responds to the driver. 

Manual cons

  • Manual transmissions are no longer an option for a lot of cars, and are usually limited to small vehicles and sports cars.
  • Driving stick requires more skill than an automatic – it takes practice to learn how to properly use the clutch, and improper use will lead to more wear and tear.
  • Using two feet to drive can be uncomfortable for some people, which also depends on how the car is designed. 
  • Driving in the city is only fun if you truly enjoy driving a stick shift. Stop-and-go traffic can be a real hassle if you're driving a stick, and that kind of shifting can cause excessive wear on the clutch, according to Consumer Reports. 
  • Manuals may be harder to sell down the line, since they are less popular now than ever.

Automatic pros

  • An automatic is far easier to drive than a stick – all you do is put it into drive, reverse, park or neutral. While newer automatic transmissions are incorporating more gear choices, there's still little work to be done on the part of the driver. 
  • Automatics are great for the city – driving in traffic is considerably easier with an automatic, as there is no need to shift constantly with the ebb and flow of traffic.

  • "There are far more options available with automatic transmissions."

    Car Talk pointed out that CVTs are as close as anyone has come to creating the perfect transmission, and their advent is helping automatics exceed manuals in terms of mileage. 

  • As the Edmunds statistics indicated, most manufacturers have significantly cut back on having stick shifts available for their models, so there are far more options available with an automatic. This also means there's a wide variety of used cars with an automatic transmission.

Automatic cons

  • The driver has less control over the performance of an automatic transmission because it does the shifting itself. According to Car Talk, automatics that aren't CVTs create a problem with gear slippage as they get up to higher speeds, hurting gas mileage. 
  • Despite advances in technology with CVTs and gear sensors, most automatic transmissions generally get lower mileage than their manual counterparts.
  • Cars with automatic transmissions are usually more expensive than those with manual transmissions. This is especially true if they are equipped with the latest CVT transmissions which are also the best performing. 
  • Automatic transmissions are very complex machines due to the planetary gear system. If they break, it can cost a fortune to have them fixed or replaced.

So if you consider that manual transmissions only get a few more mpg than automatics, and there are far more cars available with an automatic transmission, that's the way to go. Car Talk even went so far as to conclude, "the only good argument for buying a manual transmission these days is 'Because it's fun.'" 

But it's all up to you, the driver, to figure out what you're most comfortable with. Some people just love driving a stick. Whatever the case, pop into New Jersey State Auto Auction and have a look through their used car selection – chances are you'll find what you're looking for. 

Top 8 beaches for a day trip in and around New Jersey

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Posted in General Auto News

New Jersey is home to some of the most amazing beaches on the East Coast, and while New York City is more known for its skyscrapers, it's got some pretty cool beach spots too. So if you're bumming around this summer and you're thinking of taking a road trip somewhere, why not consider these eight beaches in New York and New Jersey. 

  1. Cape May
    Rebuilt following a massive fire in 1878, Cape May City is distinct from other New Jersey beach towns because it was reconstructed with colorful and interesting Victorian buildings – what's more, there are no big chain stores or restaurants to be found, according to CapeMay.com. It's technically an island, but it's also the southernmost tip of the Garden State. The fact that it's warded off corporate influence for well over a century has kept Cape May as beautiful and original as it always has been. If you're looking for an adventure on a summer day in New Jersey, take a quick trip to Cape May – spend the afternoon on the beach and hang around for a nice dinner on the water. 

  2. "Spring Lake has NJ's longest non-commercial boardwalk."

    Spring Lake
    Sixty miles from downtown Manhattan, Spring Lake features the longest non-commercial boardwalk in New Jersey, according to SpringLakeBoro.org. The Travel Channel characterized the beaches of Spring Lake as some of the most refined in all of Jersey. While this seaside town is a popular spot in the summer with a budding tourist industry, there's only one hotel on the water – so you'd better book early if you plan on staying more than a day. The Breakers Hotel was built in the late 1800s, and while it's been renovated time and again to keep up with the Jones,' its exterior design maintains the hotel's classic charm. So if you fancy a relaxing afternoon on the beach and a quiet town to stroll through, Spring Lake is a good bet for you. 

  3. Long Beach Island
    If you're looking for the tourist-y beach spot where you can find, well, everyone else, look no further than Long Beach Island. LBI, as it's referred to by locals, is rich in night life and has 8 miles of beaches, according to the Travel Channel. LBI is the home of the famous original Ron Jon Surf Shop, which was built there in 1961. Since then, it's provided a valuable service to LBI's large surfing community – there are 19 spots that allow surfing along the beaches, the Travel Channel reported. If you're looking for a great time on the beach, LBI is the place to go.
  4. Ocean City
    This popular seaside town, which is actually an island, was recently voted the No. 1 beach in New Jersey by NJ.com readers poll. Ocean City was founded in 1879 and remains one of the most popular family hotspots in the country. Originally intended to be used as a Christian beach and camping retreat, the town remains dry to this day – no alcohol is available anywhere on the island to honor this tradition, according to Ocean City's visitor information website. With 14 guarded beaches open all summer and a 2.5-mile boardwalk packed with shops and eateries, Ocean City is the family destination in New Jersey.Boardwalks are a great attraction for beach goers - they are often lined with great shops and restaurants, and some even have amusement piers.Boardwalks are a great attraction for beach goers – they are often lined with shops and restaurants, and some even have amusement piers.
  5. Wildwood
    The Wildwood area in New Jersey has 5 miles of beaches for tourists and local beach bums alike to sprawl out. Wildwood is home to the 1950s and 1960s doo-wop movement -Chubby Checkers debuted the Twist at the famous Rainbow Club, according to the Travel Channel. Of course, it has a beautiful boardwalk, but it's also home to Morey's Piers – a three-pier amusement park that's the largest of its kind in the world, according to Visit NJ. With plenty for kids to do during the day and lots of nighttime entertainment for adults, Wildwood is a great place for a quick road trip.
  6. Staten Island
    Staten Island has more beaches than any other New York City borough, which includes the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach, according to NYC Go. The FDR Boardwalk stretches for 2.5 miles, and if you continue walking, lo and behold – you will find more beaches. Cedar Grove Beach is the newest addition to Staten Island's beaches, and it's only been open to the public for a few years. As such, it's not a very well-known spot, so if you're looking to take a nice day trip somewhere that isn't drawing a huge crowd, this might be the spot for you. 

  7. "Rockaway Beach is home to NYC's only two surfing spots."

    Coney Island
    Its name and reputation might say it all, but this world-famous spot in Brooklyn is home to 3 miles of beach. Not to mention, Coney Island still has a healthy supply of new and classic amusement rides that give the Coney skyline its classic appearance. Check it out if you're looking for an interesting spot that has more than just a beach to draw you in. 

  8. Rockaway Beach
    Whether or not you're a fan of The Ramones, you might have heard their song about this real-life beach in New York City. The legendary Queens beachfront is the largest urban beach in the U.S., according to NYC Go. It's also home to the only surfing beach in New York City, making it a stand-out attraction for serious beach-goers. There's plenty else to do in this area, with a cluster of shops and restaurants nearby and of course, a boardwalk. 

Distracted driving: A leading cause of accidents

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Posted in General Auto News

Distracted driving has been an issue with motorists since the dawn of the age of the automobile. Early traffic enforcement agencies were concerned with drivers reading their mail, and when windshield wipers came out, people were worried the regular motion would put drivers to sleep or hypnotize them, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Even car radios were expected to create trouble – when car makers began installing them in the 1930s, legislators made moves to ban them for fear that they would cause crashes.

Not surprisingly, as the technological age has provided people with mobile devices that never leave their hands and onboard computers that offer a range of services inside the vehicle, distracted driving has remained a huge problem, especially for young drivers. 

"Distracted driving caused 16% of all crashes in 2012."

Distracted driving in the modern age
Studies in the 1970s concluded that distracted driving was the cause of 15 percent of all crashes, and that number has remained relatively consistent – 16 percent of all auto crashes in 2012 were attributed to distracted driving, the IIHS reported. While current campaigns are focusing on cellphone usage as the No. 1 distraction for drivers, a number of other factors can distract drivers as well. Of all the distraction-related deaths in 2012, 88 percent were attributed to something other than a cellphone. 

The Erie Insurance company partnered with the IIHS to conduct an analysis of data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System to look closer at driver distractions other than cellphone usage. The researchers found that 62 percent of distracted drivers between 2010 and 2011 reported being generally distracted or lost in thought. Cellphone usage was the next leading cause at 12 percent, followed by rubbernecking – or starting at something outside the vehicle – at 7 percent and distraction by passengers in the vehicle at 5 percent.

But because the numbers are based on police opinions filed in reports from crash scenes and drivers that may have been dishonest about their true distractions, there's a chance many of the "generally distracted" drivers were focusing on something other than their daydreams. While that points to a wide range of potential distracters, statistics presented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration seem to indicate cellphone usage as the likely culprit in many distracted driving accidents, even if it isn't always reported as such.

Ten percent of traffic fatalities in peolple under 20 were the result of distracted driving.Distracted driving has caused far more accidents than it should.

Texting and driving causes accidents
According to the NHTSA, people in the U.S. and all its territories were sending an average of 153.3 billion text messages per month as of December 2013. That same year, 3,154 people were killed, and an additional 424,000 were injured, in accidents caused by distracted driving. An average of 660,000 U.S. drivers can be caught using their cellphones while driving at any given moment during the day. Cellphones, more often than not, have become the center of our attention, and this is particularly a huge problem among teenagers who drive.

The NHTSA reported that traffic crashes are the leading cause of teenage deaths, and 10 percent of traffic fatalities in people under 20 years old were the result of distracted driving. While the NHTSA cites numerous reasons for teenage distractions – such as grooming, eating, using navigation systems and even watching videos – texting is by far the worst distraction for anyone. It requires one hand to do the typing, the eyes to guide the hand and read messages, and the brain to focus on the conversation. The average time spent looking at a text conversation while driving is about five seconds, and at 55 mph, that's the equivalent of driving the entire length of a football field blindfolded, the NHTSA reported. The result is a staggering amount of unnecessary deaths and injuries, which prompted a huge campaign by lawmakers and transportation safety groups to try and stop cellphone-related accidents.  

"Traffic crashes are the leading cause of teenage deaths."

How to stop it
Many legislators have sought to hinder distracted driving by passing laws banning all cellphone use. Forty-five states in the U.S. have banned texting while driving altogether, and 40 of those consider it a primary law – which means officers don't need any other reason to pull drivers over if they are using a cellphone, according to the NHTSA. 

But the IIHS reported that while cellphone bans while driving have dropped the percentage of observed drivers on their cellphones, the number of crashes has not decreased as expected. This may be because drivers who switch to hands-free calling are still too distracted by their conversations, or perhaps bans just encourage people to be more discreet while using their phones behind the wheel. Whatever the case, the automobile industry is taking preventative measures of their own.

Automakers are trying to help fight distracted driving through the use of front crash prevention technology. The IIHS reported that as many as 1.9 million crashes could be prevented in the future if all vehicles were equipped with high-performance prevention systems. But it may take up to 30 years for the auto industry to fully adopt such features as standard on all vehicles – at the rate of distracted driving deaths in 2013, just under 95,000 lives that may be lost in that time. That's a long time to wait for an entire industry to help prevent people from getting into accidents because they weren't paying attention.

The bottom line is that awareness and education will be the best ways to prevent driver distractions, and that falls on people taking responsibility for themselves. The NHTSA and other government agencies are calling on parents and teachers to educate their kids on driver safety. That also means adults need to lead by example, and show teenagers that it is not OK to text and drive or engage in other distracting behaviors while operating a vehicle. 

The National Safety Council has declared April as Districted Driving Awareness Month, and there are plenty of ways to help spread awareness. Check out their website for more information, and remember – the stakes are far too high to get that last message in five minutes before arriving at home – it may cost a life.

And don't forget that avoiding distractions is only one piece of the driving safety puzzle. You can find a great used car loaded with safety features at New Jersey State Auto Auction to help keep your family safe.