All posts by Admin

8 tips for finding the best car loan

By
Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Having a car is a great way to maintain your independence and flexibility – to travel that is. But buying a car can be a real hassle, and if you don't make wise decisions when it comes to getting a car loan, you'll spend a great deal of time living under the weight of your debt and risk damaging your credit. Start by doing the right thing and becoming an informed car buyer – these eight tips will get point you in the right direction.

  1. Know what you can afford 
    Before you do anything else, calculate your budget to see how much you can really afford to spend on a car. Go into the dealer with big dreams and no idea what kind of budget you're working with and you'll wind up driving a prince's chariot on a pauper's salary. Consumer Reports recommended paying no more than 36 percent of your gross income on debts. In other words, find out what 36 percent of your annual gross income is. Add up all of your monthly debts – insurance, rent, bills, food and credit cards – for the year and subtract that from your 36 percent. What you have left is an approximation of what you can potentially spend on car payments annually. Don't forget to look into additional costs associated with a new vehicle, like registration fees, changes in insurance and any taxes you might have to pay on it.
  2. Make a down payment
    This cannot be stressed enough, so we'll say it again – make a down payment. The more money you can drop on a car up front, the better. A solid down payment will lower your monthly payments, lower the interest rate and leave you owing less overall. Obviously you don't want to break the bank trying to make a down payment, but if you can hold off as long as possible and save up a solid cash pile, do it. You should try to make your down payment between 15 and 20 percent of the total cost of the vehicle, according to Consumer Reports.

  3. "Get your credit score before doing anything else."

    Know your credit score
    Get your credit score before you even think about applying for a loan. Your credit score determines your interest rate, and if you leave it up to the lender to determine your credit rating, you might be getting the short end of the stick. Also, if you find out early on that you have poor credit score, you can take the time to figure out how best to bring your score up before you start looking for the perfect used car.

  4. But, don't fear your credit score
    Contrary to popular belief, your credit score isn't everything – and how "bad" or "good" it is may depend on the eye of the beholder. Bankrate reported that many lenders may look closer at your credit history than the actual score. While a low score might rule you out for a house loan, the same score might work just fine for an auto loan if your history indicates that you're building decent credit. 
  5. Negotiate the purchasing price
    Rather than negotiating the monthly payment, insist on lowering the overall purchasing price instead. It may mean you have to pay a little more per month, depending on how you negotiate it, but the lower the purchasing price, the less you owe altogether. You should also avoid vehicles with upgrades and add-ons that have driven up the value, especially those that you can afford to purchase later on, as they will only increase the loan amount. 

    Negotiate the purchasing priceRather than negotiating the monthly payment, insist on lowering the overall purchasing price instead.

     

  6. The shorter the loan, the better
    According to Consumer Reports, longer loans cost more than shorter ones. The catch is that longer loans usually mean lower monthly payments, but that extends the total cost of the interest. You'll pay more in interest over five years than in three. Also, longer loans usually carry higher interest rates anyway, so that will increase the total amount you're spending as well. A shorter loan may mean you're paying a little more per month, but if you can afford the higher payments, the interest rate will be lower and you'll be paying less in the long run -you'll also have the satisfaction of paying off the loan in a shorter amount of time.
  7. Don't end up upside down
    "Upside down," in loan terms, occurs when your vehicle is worth less than you owe on it. You need to try and ensure that this does not happen to you. If you go to trade in your car before you've paid the loan off, and it's worth less than what you owe, you end up with negative equity. If something terrible happens and your car is totaled, but the value is less than what you owe, the insurance payout will only cover the value of the vehicle and you'll be stuck paying off a car you  no longer have while attempting to buy a replacement. One of the ways you can avoid this is to make sure you have a down payment when you purchase a used car – it will help add equity to the car before you even start paying the loan, according to Consumer Reports. This is also another good reason to negotiate a shorter loan term – your monthly payments will accrue more equity in a shorter time than if they are spread out over a longer loan period.

  8. "Compare interest rates with as many lenders as possible."

    Shop around
    Don't just go into this blind and settle for the first deal that sounds good. Compare interest rates with as many banks, credit unions and other lenders as possible to find the best rate for your used car loan. This includes online lenders – most of which have calculators on their websites that will help you figure out what you're really getting into, according to DMV.org. Remember, most rates are competitive, so the more information you have about rates, the more you can negotiate with lenders. Dealerships, such as New Jersey State Auto Auction, also have on-site financing available, and often at a rate that competes with local banks. Bankrate recommended focusing on lenders that specifically deal in auto loans, as they will interpret your application differently than a lender that deals in a broad range of financing.

    The bottom line is that the more prepared you are for buying a car, the better. If you find yourself on a budget, a used model is probably the way to go, as you can find amazing deals on used cars if you're willing to put in the shopping effort. What's more, New Jersey Auto Auction has a wide selection of vehicles and a financing department that is more than willing to help you find a good deal. Just keep these eight tips in mind when you're working out the details, and you're likely to come out on top. 

Maintenance tips for a successful summer road trip

By
Posted in How To

Summertime probably means you'll be taking a road trip to somewhere at some point. Maybe you're driving an hour to the nearest beach or heading out on a long journey across country. Regardless, the absolute last thing you want is to have your car break down while you're in the middle of a trip, especially if it's due to something you could have easily prevented. So whether you're driving a Mercedes-Benz or a Ford, do the smart thing this summer and follow these simple tips to avoid a breakdown.

"Are you properly maintaining your vehicle?"

Keep up with the up-keep
The first question you should be asking yourself when considering your car's well-being is, "Am I properly maintaining my vehicle?" Whether you've had your vehicle for a few years or you've just acquired a used car, be aware of the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. You can find it in your owner's manual, which you should probably look through if you haven't already. The schedule will include recommendations for fluid changes, tire rotations and other services based on your vehicle's mileage. Some of the things you might see are detailed in the list below that you can either check yourself, or have your mechanic inspect to be sure you and your car are up to speed. 

The tires
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration reported that low tire pressure is the leading cause of blowouts. Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold, or when you haven't driven on them for any considerable distance, the NHTSA said. The manufacturer's recommended tire pressure can be found on the inside of your driver-side door panel. It's a good idea to keep a tire-pressure gauge in your car, so you'll always be able to tell whether or not you need some air. 

You should ensure your tires are still in good condition, especially if you're switching back to summer tires from winter tires. Inspect each tire for any cracking or potential leaks, especially if you've checked the pressure and found it to be low. You should also check the tread using the penny trick, the NHTSA recommended. Rest a penny in the tread, with Lincoln's face upside-down – if you can see the top of his head you should probably have your tires replaced. If not, you're all set.

If the tires seem to have uneven wear patterns, they may need to be re-aligned, according to the NHTSA. Have your mechanic inspect the alignment and rotate the tires if necessary. This will ensure they wear evenly and prolong their life.

Something breakdowns can be easily avoidedSomething breakdowns can be easily avoided

The radiator
Overheating on the highway is a common occurrence in the summer time, so keeping tabs on the health of your radiator system is very important. Car Talk reported that it's crucial to check the radiator core, especially if you live in an area where salt is used heavily on roads in the winter, as it can rot the tubes that carry the coolant. Have a mechanic test the core to see if the tubes are showing any signs of corrosion.  

The coolant itself should also be full and healthy. Most coolants nowadays last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, but if your car is in that range you may need to replace it, according to Car Talk. Before you even ask, yes, you still need antifreeze in the summer. Antifreeze has a much higher boiling point than water and it will help keep the engine cool in extreme temperatures.

The thermostat must also be working well if you're going to keep the engine cool. If the thermostat is stuck, all the coolant in the world won't keep your engine from overheating, according to Car Talk.

"Change your oil and filter every 5,000 miles."

Oil and transmission fluid
If you don't have enough oil in your engine, you risk severe damage or even seizure. This will not only stop you in your tracks, it will cost you a fortune to replace the engine if it seizes. So, always check your oil level before heading out on a long trip. It's also essential to make sure you're changing the oil regularly. Most manufacturers recommend changing the oil and filter every 5,000 miles, Car Talk said. If you change the oil and it gets dirty quickly, you may need an engine flush to help remove excess dirt and residue buildup. 

The same is true for your transmission fluid. While it doesn't need to be replaced nearly as often as oil, sustained high temperatures and bad transmission fluid don't mix. You can look at it yourself – good fluid should look reddish-brown while fluid that needs to be changed will be very dark and may not have any red tinge left at all. If it looks bad, have the transmission flushed and the fluid replaced. 

The air conditioner
This one is a no-brainer. Nobody wants to be stuck in a hot car in the summertime, and having the air conditioner checked is the best way to prevent that. Start by running the air conditioner and testing how cold it is. If it's not pumping cold air, you might need to have it serviced. How Stuff Works said that low refrigerant is the leading cause of faulty air conditioners. Have a mechanic ensure you have enough refrigerant and more importantly, that none is leaking. Some cars also come equipped with a cabin air filter, which cleans the air as it's pumped through the vents and into the vehicle. You want to be sure the filter is clean, so check your owner's manual to see if your car has one and where it is. 

Seatbelts and car seats
Once you've ensured everything else on this list is in working order, be sure to follow proper safety procedures inside the car as well. Everyone riding in the vehicle must be buckled at all times. When traveling with young children, they need to be properly restrained in the back seat. The NHTSA has a slew of safety guidelines that not all available car seats adhere to. If you're a new parent, read through the NHTSA's guidelines to ensure you're doing it right from the start. It's also recommended that you buckle all unused seatbelts so that children will be less likely to become entangled if they're playing around in the backseat. 

Stick to these guidelines and you're likely to avoid any serious bumps on your summer road trip.

 

10 of the best cars under $10k for grads

By
Posted in General Auto News

It's graduation season, and that probably means a lot of things for you and your family. If you're a parent, watching your child cross the stage and exit into the world as a young adult is a proud and emotional moment. You might even feel so inclined as to reward your offspring for his academic achievements – handsomely. If you're the graduate, you're probably thinking you deserve the same thing. As it so often happens on graduation days, this mutual feeling of accomplishment between parent and graduate may materialize itself in the form of a car. If Junior hasn't asked for a set of wheels yet, he probably will, so you might as well be prepared. 

"Your grad doesn't need a brand new sports car."

That said, and as much as you may want to reward your graduate, you don't need to empty your savings account to buy him a brand new sports car. Instead, consider shopping for a used vehicle – one with decent mileage, safety features and style that will still keep your graduate safe while he rides in style. To help you out, we've compiled a list of our 10 favorite used cars under $10,000 – some that maximize safety features and gas mileage, others that Junior will just love.

1. 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit
The VW Rabbit is the German automaker's replacement for the Golf. Sporty in style and feel with a great interior, this hatchback is a versatile and appealing option for college-bound high school grads. It was in Consumer Reports' top three list of small cars in this price range, and we're placing it at the top of our list. Yes, it's a compact car, but it holds the 2009 Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Not to mention it gets 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. 

2. 2005 BMW 
It almost goes without saying that this would be a great gift for your grad – it's a Beemer. Every teenager dreams of driving a BMW someday, so maybe you can make that dream a reality on graduation day without breaking the bank. This model has a quick V-6 engine and a luxurious interior. It gets 25 mpg on the highway and has electronic stability control to help keep Junior on the road. Did we mention you can pick this BMW up for less than $10,000?

3. 2005 Acura TL
Luxury and sport combine to offer you this affordable sedan. It comes with curtain airbags and carries a 4.6-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Loaded with a V-6, it gets 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Fuel-efficient and stylish, this one's a no-brainer. 

4. 2008 Mazda 3
Consumer Reports said "this car has everything most shoppers want in a small car," and we tend to agree. Comfortable seats, sleek interior design and a choice between a hatchback and sedan make this a perfect car for a recent grad. It gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, and Kelley Blue Book reported that the sport-model Mazda 3s from 2008 were all equipped with side-impact and side-curtain airbags, making them safer than previous versions. 

5. 2008 Pontiac Vibe
This spacious and stylish wagon has a 115-volt outlet on the console and plenty of cargo space, making it a perfect fit for active and adventurous youth. It's great on gas at 33 mpg on the highway and carries a five-star overall driver and passenger front impact safety rating from the NHTSA.

Dunno yetThe mutual feeling of accomplishment between parent and grad may materialize itself in the form of a car.

6. 2005 Honda Pilot
Yahoo! Autos called the Pilot the best combination of a "wagon, SUV and minivan." The Pilot is enormous – it's capable of seating eight people and the seats are adjustable to make room for plenty of cargo. With a powerful V-6 engine and four-wheel drive, the Pilot will take your graduate just about anywhere he wants to go – all with an average 27 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in the city. The NHTSA gave the 2005 Pilot a five-star crash rating and four stars for the rollover test. 

7. 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander
The Outlander is a sporty SUV with a third seat option for optimal seating and a 30 gigabyte hard drive for on-board navigation and other technologies. Your grad can store up to 6 GB of music on this bad boy, and with a five-star crash rating from the NHTSA it might be one of the best options if you're looking for an SUV. Not to mention, it gets 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

8. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
Humble yet sharp in style, this midsize sedan is considered a large car by the Environmental Protection Agency because there's so much room in the interior, according to KBB. One of the Sonata's selling points is that it comes with a slew of great safety features, including active front head restraints, electronic stability control and an air purification system that self-activates when it senses too many air pollutants, such as diesel fumes. It has a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and the V-6 engine gets up to 30 mpg on the highway.

"The Sonata comes with a slew of great safety features."

9. 2007 Honda Fit
A very compact car with adjustable seats, the Fit might be a perfect option for a grad with his own style. It has an interesting look that took Americans by surprise when it made its debut in 2006, but has since become a popular model among small cars. Don't let the size fool you – with adjustable seats, the Fit can hold up to 41.9 cubic feet of cargo if you really know to pack it in there. That might even be room enough for everything your grad needs to take to college. With five-star front and rear impact ratings from the NHTSA and an average of 38 mpg on the highway – the best mileage on this list – you can't go wrong. 

10. 2006 Mini Cooper S
People didn't know what to make of the Mini Cooper when it first showed up on American streets. Thanks to movies like The Italian Job, the compact British car has earned its place in the hearts of auto fanatics and Sunday drivers alike. It has a style all of its own that's sure to attract attention for your grad as he cruises around campus. With a four-star overall safety rating form the NHTSA and up to 33 mpg on the highway, this is a great option for a grad that just wants something different. 

What Are The Best Used Cars To Buy?

By
Posted in Auto Brands News, Chevrolet, Hyundai

Drivers have so many options to choose from when they're shopping for cars. Whether they're mulling different automakers, models, colors or engine types, motorists certainly have their work cut out for them. But for some, the search is narrowed simply by sticking with used cars. These budget-friendly options generally offer safe, reliable rides for a wide variety of drivers, all the while providing access to affordable monthly payments and auto loans. 

Why buy used cars?
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out why used cars are so attractive to drivers. Not only are the sticker prices of these vehicles lower than their brand new counterparts, but there are many opportunities to save on the average depreciation of automobiles. By investing in a lightly used model, drivers can avoid much of the hit to the value of cars that occurs in the first year of ownership without sacrificing quality. To help in this endeavor, iSeeCars.com compiled a list of the best used cars to buy. 

You can find a used car you love - at the right price, of course. You can find a used car you love – at the right price, of course.

"Everybody knows that new cars depreciate the most in the first year and that different cars have different depreciation rates, but we wanted to see which used cars experienced the largest price drops compared to their new models," said Phong Ly, iSeeCars.com CEO.

It's important to note that the ideal investment for drivers will vary. If you're not sure what type of car is the best fit for you, take your search to New Jersey State Auto. There you can browse through a wide selection of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans to find an option you love. 

"Auto industry developments can lead to great deals."

How to find the best options
Auto industry developments can lead to great deals. Overhauls and redesigns drive up the cost of new models and decrease that of recent cars, making these lightly used cars a great value. That's not the only cause, however, so drivers should pay attention to what's going on in the industry to try to locate the best value deals.

"There are numerous reasons for the wide range of differences, but the most prominent factors that increase the price difference between a car's new and lightly used models are lower popularity compared to its competitors, a brand with reported dependability issues or expensive repairs, or having just undergone a redesign," Ly explained.

Motorists can also keep an eye on used car websites to monitor the models at a specific lot. At NJ State Auto, for example, you can sift through used cars under $10,000 – or your specific price point – and try to locate the best vehicles on sale. Then you can move quickly to make sure you don't miss out. 

You can negotiate deals after monitoring the used car market. You can negotiate deals after monitoring the used car market.

Models to watch

"Buying lightly used cars will leave cash in your wallet."

Still, iSeeCars.com identified a few models you may want to pay special attention to, especially if you're concerned about depreciation. At the top of the list is the Hyundai Genesis. These models drop an average of 38.2 percent after the first year of ownership, which equals approximately $16,600 in value. Buying a model that's just 1 year old will present thousands of dollars of savings, and going further back will leave even more cash in your wallet. 

Another model that can give way to massive savings is the Cadillac CTS. The study showed a 36.9 percent depreciation after the first year, and with a luxury brand like Cadillac, that translates to a price difference of about $20,000. Other attractive models include the popular Chevrolet Impala, which has a price drop of 33.5 percent after year one, and the GMC Yukon XL. 

How To Spend Your Tax Return On Your Car

By
Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

April 15 can be a hectic day for any American. Whether you've waited until the last minute to file your taxes or only needed to double-check that you left your signature in all of the right places, Tax Day may be stressful. However, it can also be a happy day for some, as many people are expecting tax refunds in the near future. 

There's often some good news that comes along with filing taxes. There's often some good news that comes along with filing taxes.

The Internal Revenue Service reported that it refunds about $217 billion to Americans each year. That averages out to approximately $2,815 for 2015, according to Yahoo Autos, which is a considerable boost to some bank accounts. While a few people may want to save these funds, others have a laundry list of spending options, which could include vehicle-related investments. 

"Use your tax refund on a car."

It doesn't matter if you're ready to shop for a vehicle or have already completed a purchase – the windfall can be a huge asset in your life as an owner. Here are five ways you can use your tax refund on a car.

1. Make it a down payment
If you get a big chunk of change back from the government, it could be the ideal amount to use toward a down payment on a vehicle. This could be a huge step toward affording the car you want, as a larger down payment reduces the amount you have to borrow and therefore decreases your monthly payments. If you manage to find great deals on used cars, your refund could even make up a large portion of the price! 

2. Care for a recent purchase
Maybe you've recently bought a used car at a facility like NJ State Auto. While the quality of the vehicles on the lot are impressive, they still need to be cared for to maintain their nature. Use your tax refund to pay for standard servicing and maintenance. This will make sure your used car runs like new and stays safe on the roads. 

"Let your tax refund help improve your credit score."

3. Improve your credit
Do you feel like your credit history is holding you back from getting behind the wheel of the car you want? Let your tax refund help improve your credit score. Use these funds to pay back outstanding debts that may be hurting your profile. Making significant payments or even paying off a loan in full is a great way to boost your score and show you can be a trusted borrower. 

If you have limited debt but still want to improve your score, your tax refund can be applied in a few different ways. Consider reserving some of the money for your regular utility bills. These will soon be evaluated when measuring a credit score, so you'll want to ensure you aren't falling behind on payments. Having cash in your bank account also allows you to improve credit smartly with the use of credit cards. Feel free to make significant purchases using plastic, but repay the debt immediately using your refund. This will boost a credit score without putting you in a huge hole. 

Use your tax refund to boost your credit. Find ways to use your tax refund to boost your credit.

4. Pay an auto loan
Auto loans are becoming one of the most popular – and affordable – ways of procuring a car. If you've already used this financing option or are planning to, consider saving some of your refund as a cushion for payments. You can either get ahead on these loans or simply have a backup in case a nasty financial surprise pops up in another aspect of life. 

"Don't let financial concerns hold you back from top-quality rides."

5. Shop with confidence
If nothing else, you'll be able to browse through the wide selection of used cars at New Jersey State Auto Auction with peace of mind. The lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, and many of these options could serve as the perfect investment for you. Don't let financial concerns hold you back from top-quality rides. You can let your tax refund help defray the impact a purchase has on your bank account without sacrificing on the roads. 

How To Clean Your Car This Spring

By
Posted in How To

You may have celebrated the arrival of spring – and the impending summer travel season – with the purchase of a used car. If you haven't made the leap quite yet, the team at NJ State Auto Auction can help you find a great option for your upcoming road trips and beach commutes, ensuring you get behind the wheel of a high-quality vehicle without breaking the bank. You'll still need to care for this car, and a good place to start is with a massive cleaning. 

"Maintenance should start with a thorough car wash."

Tips and tricks for washing your car
Maintenance should start with a thorough car wash. A hand wash is often the best option, but you need to have the right materials to make sure you're approaching the process correctly. News station WVLT suggested starting with two buckets: one with clean water and the other with soap and water, which ensures you have fresh liquid to do the final once-over. It's best to start from the top of your vehicle and work your way down. This allows you to attack the dirtiest sections last – preserving the life of your sponges – and ensure sections you've already cleaned don't become dirty again. 

Car Talk noted that this whole process should be completed in the shade. The source reported that hot cars cause the soapy mixture to dry quickly, leading to streaks and unsightly stains. High temperatures can also soften the paint and increase the odds of scratches. To avoid these problems, wait for a cool car surface and use plenty of water. 

Washing a car is an essential part of maintenance. Washing a car is an essential part of maintenance.

Washing the car is just the beginning, as your job isn't done until you've waxed the vehicle as well. Waxing is essential for protecting the paint of the vehicle – something that is especially important if you have a used car. After you've rinsed and dried your car, use a basic exterior wax. Your surface will be guarded against rain and other debris while also looking glossy and new. 

What's happening under the hood?
A few aspects of your vehicle's engine may need some attention. If you're not sure of what to do, make sure you read your owner's manual for information on your maintenance checklist, recommended cleaners and other car-specific tips. You can also head to a servicing center for input from experts. 

Your manual will probably tell you to get regular tune ups. The importance of this action can't be understated, but there are a few other measures you can take to guarantee your used car is ready for spring and summer. Check the air filter first. A replacement filter will keep pollen and other pollutants away from your car, allowing you to breath easier and increase fuel efficiency. 

You'll need to clean off the interior of your vehicle. You'll need to clean off the interior of your vehicle as well.

Make your driving experience a clean one

"You'll be a better, more focused driver if your car is clean."

Once the exterior and the inner workings of the car are cared for, it's time to take a look around your personal driving space. Shake out and spray down floor mats, vacuum the carpets and throw out any trash that has accumulated through the winter. Then you can turn your attention to your dashboard and similar dials around the interior. Car Talk suggested using tools like a toothbrush or paint brush, which are ideal for cleaning around buttons and reaching all of the crevices found in a car. 

Finally, make sure your windshield and wipers are ready for spring rain and summer thunderstorms. Check the wipers to see if they need to be replaced and refill wiper fluid to ensure you're stocked for the coming months. A car wash will clean off the windows, so all you'll have to do is double-check for streaks or missed spots that could otherwise hurt your visibility. Go over these locations with a proper glass cleaner. You'll be a better, more focused driver if your car is clean and distraction-free. 

What Brands Do Drivers Think Are Tops?

By
Posted in Auto Brands News

Brand names carry a lot of weight in the auto industry. People may be loyal to a certain automaker or have thoughts about models thanks to peer reviews, headline news and past experiences with a manufacturer. The bottom line is there are many factors that influence the overall image of a brand, and it's important to understand how the public views some of the major names throughout the world of used cars. 

Brand reputation has a major impact on what drivers buy. Brand reputation has a major impact on what drivers buy.

Kelley Blue Book recently released the results of its annual Brand Image Awards, which focus on how drivers view automakers. Evaluations were based on 12 factors covering all aspects of car ownership, including reliability, driving performance, fuel efficiency, overall styling, reputation, prestige and more. The final results reveal a few interesting impressions from around the auto industry. 

Honda takes the top spot – again
For the third year in a row, Honda grabbed the No. 1 spot in the Kelley Blue Book survey. That earned it the title of Best Overall Brand for the fourth time in the history of the award. Motorists had high opinions of models such as the Accord, Civic and CR-V. These vehicles also helped Honda earn the title of Best Value Brand. Kia may have won this award last year, but Honda came back to regain the crown thanks the quality of its offerings, overall performance and relatively low prices. 

"These awards from KBB.com demonstrate that customers continue to recognize the tremendous quality and value of our products, which are at the heart of the incredible competitive strength of the Honda brand," said Jeff Conrad, Honda division senior vice president and general manager at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "We take this recognition from our customers as a mandate to continue building the highest quality, longest lasting vehicles on the road."

""You don't have to sacrifice performance when on a budget."

Many options for curious drivers
Of course, Honda vehicles aren't the only top-notch choices for drivers. Kelley Blue Book also recognized Subaru as the Best Performance Brand and Most Trusted Brand among non-luxury automakers. Additionally, GMC was rated as the Most Refined Brand, while Mazda took the crown for Best Car Styling. Interested in pickups instead? Ford was the big winner in this segment, taking the title of Best Overall Truck Brand. 

Prospective buyers who head to NJ State Auto Auction can have their pick from a number of top brands. With a wide selection of hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars to choose from, drivers will be able to find a high-quality vehicle at an affordable price. You don't have to sacrifice performance when on a budget. Reach out to one of the experts at NJ State Auto's financing department. These professionals can help you sort through your options, securing credit approval and finalizing manageable loans that may be needed to get you behind the wheel of the car you want. 

Watch Out For Tires When Car Shopping

By
Posted in General Auto News

People shopping for used cars may have bigger things on their mind than the type of tires loaded on the vehicle. But these wheels can have a major impact on how satisfied you are with the ride, so it's important to take the tires into account as you're looking around. 

"Certain tires may be the downfall of customer satisfaction."

Customers strive for happiness with their tires
A recent study from J.D. Power showed that certain tires may be the downfall of customer satisfaction. According to the report, drivers of vehicles with run-flat tires are more likely to be unhappy with the car's driving performance. These wheels are designed to keep functioning for hours after a puncture, allowing owners to get their cars to a repair shop without needing a tow. It also eliminates the need for a spare tires, which reduces the total weight of the vehicle and makes things a bit easier on shoppers. 

While this is nice in theory, the overall performance of cars with run-flat tires leaves much to be desired. Drivers reported being underwhelmed with the ride and wear of the wheels, and they often had to replace the equipment more frequently than the traditional tires. 

Finding the right tires is key to driver satisfaction. Finding the right tires is key to driver satisfaction.

"The use of run-flat tires is likely to increase as automakers continue to view them as a viable option for improving fuel efficiency by eliminating the need for a spare tire, thereby reducing the weight," said Brent Gruber, the director of the global automotive division at J.D. Power. "It's vital that auto and tire manufacturers address the ride and wear issues, which are still not meeting customer expectations. Customers expect that run-flat tires won't compromise tread life or the ability to provide a quiet and comfortable ride."

Used cars may the answer

"Many high-quality used cars still offer top-notch tires."

There is good news for drivers: Many high-quality used cars still offer top-notch tires that put driving performance first. Run-flat tires may be the choice for many new models, but slightly older vehicles often have traditional wheels to go along with more modern technology and features. This gives drivers the best of both worlds. 

The next time you're browsing through the wide selection at New Jersey Auto Auction, make sure you're taking a good long look at the wheels on each model. A thorough test drive can reveal a lot about each option, but it doesn't hurt to ask questions or research peer reviews as well. 

5 Car Shopping Tips For Drivers With Bad Credit

By
Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

It's a fact of life: Cars are expensive. So are houses, higher education, furniture, electronics – the list goes on. With so many expenses to consider day in and day out, it's easy to see how many people wind up with debt that eventually hurts their credit score. Even if you manage to pay off most of the borrowed money, a missed payment or major purchase can have a significant impact on your credit. That influences how you're set up for the future and could even play role in deciding what type of car you wind up driving for the next several years.  

Your credit score shouldn't inhibit you from buying a car. Your credit score shouldn't inhibit you from buying a car.

Are you underwhelmed by your credit score? Here are five tips that could help you boost this number without giving up your dream car. 

1. Plan to improve your score 
The first thing you should be doing is looking for ways to improve your credit score. However, this process takes time, and it's a long-term commitment that may require some flexibility as life's little surprises pop up. Do some digging into secured credit cards or similar reputable options that are designed to build credit while keeping you on a budget. You'll be able to form positive habits, such as paying off your balance and keeping track of spending, without diving into more debt. This plan should also take into account any larger purchases you may need to make in the near future. Try to save up some money for a bigger down payment on something like a used car. 

"Pay all bills for a small boost to your credit."

2. Pay your bills 
It may sound simple or self-explanatory, but making a concentrated effort to pay all of your bills on time can go a long way toward improving your credit history. The Huffington Post reported that FICO plans to incorporate utility bills into credit scores. That's good news for people who pay these bills on time but may not have or want access to credit cards. Whether it's gas, electric, telecommunication or some other service, make sure you're meeting these deadlines for a small boost to your reputation. 

3. Don't discount auto loans 
Just because you have a subprime credit score doesn't mean a manageable loan is out of reach. There are facilities that can secure you credit approval and get you situated with a used car loan. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, the on-site financing department guarantees approval for prospective buyers. The team of experts is also well-equipped to answer your questions, assist with complicated paperwork and cut through the red tape that is typically associated with loans. 

Car loans are available to a wide range of drivers. Car loans are available to a wide range of drivers.

"It's important to stay focused on the bottom line."

4. Keep an eye on the bottom line
Costs can quickly grow once you take interest rates, car repairs and maintenance into account. That's why it's important to stay focused on the bottom line. Longer loans may lead to smaller monthly payments, for example, but you could find you're paying much more in interest. You'll have to decide what the best course of action is for you and your unique situation, but do the legwork to stay informed and make educated decisions. 

5. Have your materials ready 
If you've decided to invest in a used car and have a general idea of how you want to finance the vehicle, it's time to make sure you have everything you need to make this a reality. Gather together personal references, proof of address and insurance, identification materials and recent credit reports. Many of these materials are required by the facility you're working with, while others may just be good to have in case you need to make yourself a better loan candidate. Simply collecting these documents could be helpful, however. Consider your credit report: By obtaining a free copy of this official report and looking over the details, you'll be in a good position to find errors, clarify those mistakes and create an effective plan for the future. 

What Customers Want When Buying Cars

By
Posted in Auto Industry News

Drivers have their own way of shopping for used cars. Maybe they start by browsing websites looking for great deals or researching to fully understand the ins and outs of auto loans. Some motorists go into the process with a clear idea of which make and model they want to invest in, while others may base the decision solely on price.

"Knowledge makes a big difference when buying a car."

Regardless of what guides you, there's a good chance you're unhappy with the overall car buying process. Autotrader recently found that most prospective buyers would like to change a lot of aspects of shopping for and financing a vehicle. Knowing some of these key areas, as well as hunting for the right used car lot, can make a big difference when it's time to buy. 

The current state of car shopping
The car buying experience will be different for everyone, but shoppers who use facilities like New Jersey State Auto Auction may find that certain parts of the process are made easy with the help of the site's resources. On the website, for instance, customers can browse through all sorts of used cars based on make, price, owner history and more. This is only the beginning, however, as they can then seamlessly start the financing process and register to bid for a car. Speed is a priority for these car shoppers. 

Finalizing financing is just one part of the car buying process. Finalizing financing is just one part of the car buying process.

Unfortunately, not all car lots are as dedicated to the customer experience as NJ State Auto. Autotrader's latest report, titled the Car Buyer of the Future Study, found that many dealerships have a long way to go when it comes to catering to shopper preferences. Customers want improvements on everything from test drives to how they interact with salespeople, and finding a car lot that meets their needs could encourage them to buy. 

"While there is good work going on right now to adapt decades-old sales processes, consumers are telling us that we as an industry are not moving fast enough," said Jared Rowe, president of Autotrader. "By recognizing – and embracing – the need for change, we have a tremendous opportunity to surprise and delight our consumers."

Financial changes are a must
One of the areas in need of major changes is vehicle financing. According to the Autotrader study, the vast majority of drivers want to have the option of completing credit applications and other financial forms online on their own time. This allows them to spend less time at a dealership and devote more energy to researching areas of financing they may not know about. 

"Drivers don't always jump at the lowest price."

Contrary to popular belief, drivers don't always jump at the lowest price. The report noted that more than half of respondents said they would pay a little more at a dealership with a good overall shopping experience. Additionally, most people don't mind negotiating the details of a financing deal. About 56 percent said they prefer negotiating or bidding to ensure they're getting a fair price. 

Luckily, NJ State Auto Auction can satisfy many of these demands. The car lot allows you to start all processes online, making it easy to complete paperwork and figure out deals on your own terms. A well-oiled auction system makes bidding on vehicles a breeze, but if that takes too much time, shoppers can choose to meet an asking price and drive off the lot on the same day.