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The Best Used Cars For Young Drivers

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Posted in Auto Brands News, Ford, Hyundai, Toyota

Young drivers have a lot to learn on the roads. One of the most important lessons involves safety, but this goes beyond defensive driving habits and fast reaction times. Motorists – especially relatively new ones who face a high risk for accidents – must also prioritize getting behind the wheel of used cars with plenty of effective safety features. 

What used cars should have
Consumer Reports recently released a list of the best used cars for teens. The vehicles all sell for less than $10,000 and come equipped with some of the best safety features on the market, making the automobiles smart choices for any family. 

According to the source, some of the most important features include electronic stability control. The main benefit of ESC is that it keeps the car on the road in situations where a rollover may be possible, which is often the most dangerous type of accident. In addition to secure seat belts, ESC is one of the most important amenities a car can have. 

Buyers should also look for vehicle with side and curtain air bags. Updated brakes and a strong frame are also important aspects to consider when shopping around. 

The best cars for young drivers 
So what are the top cars? According to Consumer Reports, Ford is a solid automaker to consider. The 2009 to 2011 Ford Focus, for instance, is a fuel-efficient vehicle loaded with amenities, but it stops short of offering overly distracting features. A Ford Fusion from 2010 to 2012 could also be a smart choice. Consumer Reports noted that this is a straightforward vehicle that is capable of getting the job done without overcomplicating the driving experience. 

Other options include the 2010 to 2011 Kia Soul, the 2006 to 2014 Hyundai Sonata, and the 2004 to 2012 Toyota RAV4. Each of these models provides drivers with the safety and performance features they need to handle the roads while also offering low price points. 

If you're looking for quality used cars at low prices, check out the selection at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, many of which are equipped with top-notch safety features. Many of the automobiles on sale have a sticker price of under $10,000 as well, giving young drivers and their families many opportunities to save money without giving up quality. 

Is A Long-Term Auto Loan Right For You?

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

You may know that you want or need to buy a used car, but figuring out how to afford the purchase isn't as easy. There are many options for drivers to consider, with things like interest rates, monthly payments and insurance premiums playing a role. 

One of the biggest financial factors drivers must consider is the term of the auto loan. Not only does this determine how long you'll be paying off debts, but it also has a significant impact on the bottom line. If you're ready to get behind the wheel of a used car but need a little support in the form of auto loans, make sure you're considering whether a long-term option is right for you. 

When it's the right move 
Taking out a long-term loan has some advantages. The main benefit is that you'll be able to keep monthly payments down. This is ideal for people who may be sticking to a strict budget, as each month will have smaller payments than those associated with shorter loans. Subprime borrowers may be particularly drawn to long-term auto loans. They can take advantage of the smaller payments without sacrificing the quality of the vehicle, allowing them to stay safe on the roads.

When it's time to rethink 
However, just because a long-term loan may lead to manageable monthly payments doesn't mean it's the best bet for you. USA Today noted that longer loans usually use higher interest rates, which increases the bottom line for most borrowers. So while monthly payments may be lower, the total sum paid at the end of the experience is higher. Anyone concerned about this figure and how it impacts them should think twice before signing off on a long loan.

Similarly, people who don't want to be tied to one car for an extended period of time will want to capitalize on shorter loan terms. That allows them to quickly pay off debt and have the freedom to move on to other used cars. 

Discuss your options
Regardless of what you think is right, make sure you're taking the time to talk over your options with a professional. The team of experts at NJ State Auto, for example, can help you sort out the pros and cons of each offer, ultimately choosing the deal that makes the most financial sense. 

Millennials Are Taking Advantage Of Car Loans

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

People of all ages may need a little support when it comes to buying used cars. After all, it's a big investment, and it often requires assistance in the form of loans and special financing options. Millennials are just one group using these methods to get behind the wheel. 

Young people are buying cars
One common myth is that young people, referred to as millennials, are not interested in making big purchases. While it's true that these consumers may have different shopping habits than their predecessors, they are still looking to get behind the wheel. In fact, a recent study from TransUnion found that people born after 1981 are among the fastest-growing groups of drivers. 

While this age group may be buying cars, they still need some help. Many are using auto loans to swing a purchase. TransUnion noted that the total outstanding auto loan balance for millennials grew 23 percent in the past year. Individual loan balances also increased 4 percent, reaching an average of $18,678. 

"The growth in millennials' auto-loan originations dispels the common myth that millennials are not buying cars," said Jason Laky, senior vice president and automotive business leader for TransUnion, in a company statement. "The growing average-loan balances for millennials, combined with stable delinquency rates, indicate that we are still in the midst of a strong auto-lending environment."

Appealing to millennials 
What are millennials looking for in used cars? For starters, they want a wide selection. These young people are often on the hunt for something that fits their specific needs, so being able to browse through many options for the right automobile is a priority. They also want to work with people who are going to be honest. Most millennials value transparency, and they will take their business to a facility that's going to provide them with the best deals and less red tape. 

Luckily, many of these drivers can find just what they're looking for at New Jersey State Auto Auction. In addition to the hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars the lot boasts, it also has an easy-to-understand auction process and plenty of financing resources. Drivers of any age can appreciate these features and take advantage of them on their way to a purchase. 

More People Turning To Auto Loans

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Used cars can be an incredibly smart investment, but drivers need to be able to find a deal they're comfortable with. After all, not all buyers can afford to throw down a wad of cash and drive off the lot without any future payments – in fact, very few people can do this. That's why securing a manageable loan is so important. 

Most drivers need financing options
Experian Automotive recently conducted a study exploring how many people needed a bit of financial help affording their next purchase. According to the report, more than half of used cars purchased in the fourth quarter of 2014 – about 55.2 percent – were bought with the help of financing. Not only is that a record high, but the average loan amount increased as well. Experian noted that this figure grew $437 to $18,411. 

Additionally, the report stated that loan terms for used vehicles also increased, reaching an average of 62 months. That's in spite of the fact that the average credit score for buyers climbed about two points to 648. All of this information gives prospective buyers a lot to think about, as they'll have to find a plan that balances loan length, interest rates and total monthly payments. 

"As more consumers lean on financing, it's important for them to consider all of the factors involved, including monthly payments, interest rates and loan terms," said Melinda Zabritski, Experian's senior director of automotive finance. "These insights will enable them to have a better understanding of their potential payment obligation and take the appropriate action in order to make the vehicle fit within their monthly budget and more easily meet payment terms throughout the life of the loan."

How to find the right deal
It may take time for you to select the financing option that's right for you. However, you can speed up the process with the help of NJ State Auto Auction. This lot boasts hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars for sale, but the real value may be in its on-site financing department. This team can help you get credit approval quickly, and you can even start the process online to save time. Many of these experts have experience dealing with extreme situations and tight budgets, so you'll be in capable hands – and may find yourself behind the wheel of a used car sooner rather than later. 

How To Prepare Your Car For Spring

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Posted in How To

Now that the calendar has finally turned to March, it's time to think ahead to spring. While you may be looking forward to baseball season, March Madness and perhaps even a much-needed spring cleaning, you shouldn't neglect your car. 

"Your car has been through a long winter, working overtime in harsh conditions, but factors such as extreme cold, potholes and road salt have taken a toll," said Rich White, the executive director of the Car Care Council. "Most Americans rely on their vehicles nearly every day to get to work, school and everywhere in between, so taking the time for car care now can save headaches and money in the long run."

Do you think your car needs some TLC to start the spring? Follow these tips to make sure you're staying safe and saving money behind the wheel. 

Stick to a maintenance schedule
During the transition from winter to spring, you'll need to invest in some preventative maintenance for your car and perhaps even a bit of auto repair stemming from problems caused by the colder months. A quick tune-up can ensure your brakes, battery and tires are in good shape after handling lots inclement weather. You'll also want to double-check the windshield wipers and fluid levels to guarantee you're ready for spring conditions.  

Keep it clean
One of the most important things you can do as a car owner is keep your vehicle clean. Use springtime as a reminder to care for the interior and exterior of your car. It should start with a thorough washing and waxing. This will remove any road salt or similar corrosive debris from the outside and undercarriage of the vehicle, which can prevent rusting and other damage. Waxing will also protect the outside from the heavy rains that often take place during spring. 

Upgrade when necessary
Maybe this winter was harsh on your current ride and hindered its performance. If that's the case, it may be time to upgrade to a high-quality used car. Head over to New Jersey State Auto Auction to browse through hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars and select the one that's right for you. You can take advantage of low prices, the driver-friendly auction process and the in-house financing department to find a vehicle and repayment plan that are easy on your wallet. 

How To Handle Credit After A Divorce

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

There are many reasons why your credit score may be less than stellar. For many people, the hit to their credit history may be the result of a divorce. With legal fees to pay and a new home to outfit, you've likely been spending a lot of money, and you may even be trying to balance these expenses with past debts. All of this activity can wreak havoc on your credit, putting you in a tough position when shopping for used cars. 

Luckily, you aren't out of options when it comes to securing auto financing and getting behind the wheel. Focus on these areas when you're trying to get your finances aligned after a divorce. 

Explain the circumstances
One of the most basic things you can do is explain to the seller or lender why you're in a certain situation. Edmunds.com recommended studying your credit history to see if there are any dips or problematic areas you can account for in a discussion. The source also stated that credit scores aren't the only factor considered when finalizing the terms of a loan, so be sure to provide an explanation of your current situation. 

"If you understand the details of your credit history before speaking with a lender, you'll be able to make a stronger case for your qualifications as a borrower," said Emma Johnson, a personal finance expert. "Worst case scenario, if you are forced to accept a loan with a high interest rate, you can always refinance or buy another vehicle under better terms in a few years when you are back on your feet and your credit has improved."

Cover your financial bases 
When you're heading in to meet with the financing department at NJ State Auto, you should have certain monetary concerns covered. For example, make sure you carry proof of your income from after the divorce. You may have to explain your new financial situation, and having evidence makes your job much easier. It could be beneficial to budget for a larger down payment as well, as this could make you a more attractive candidate. 

You should also take a look back at your debts to determine if there are any steps you can take to separate yourself from the loans. Identify any debts that are the responsibility of your ex-partner, and consider working with him or her to remove your name from these sums. Similarly, you need to take your name off the title and insurance of your old vehicle, which will get you ready to make a purchase. 

Consumer Reports Picks Its Top Used Cars

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Posted in Auto Brands News

Used cars are a smart investment for many different reasons. Not only are they great options for people who may be strapped for cash, but they're also worthy purchases for anyone concerned about the value of their automobile. That's part of the reason Consumer Reports recently issued a report regarding some of the best used car options for drivers. 

"Consumer Reports has long advocated buying used as a way to get the biggest bang for your buck," the report stated. "It's simple math: After one year, a new car has depreciated 27 percent of its sticker price; after three years, it's worth barely half of its sticker. When someone else takes the ­depreciation hit on the car, you benefit." 

Looking at the top brands 
As part of the report, which covered all aspects of the auto industry, Consumer Reports focused on some of the top brands. It chose its winners based on reviews and ratings of each vehicle's reliability and performance. 

Consumer Reports named Lexus as this year's top brand. The luxury company bested second-place Mazda thanks to its superior road-test results. Coming in behind those two automakers were Toyota, Audi and Subaru. Each of these brands creates a solid range of models year in and year out, and their older vehicles may be quality investment options for buyers. 

Best deals under $10,000
The report also listed the highest rated vehicles for different price points. For small used cars under $10,000, Consumer Reports suggested the Pontiac Vibe from 2005 to 2008, the 2008 Mazda3 and the Volkswagen Rabbit from 2007 to 2009. It also had several options for affordable used sedans. The Acura TL and Acura TSX from 2005 were top choices, along with the 2005 Toyota Avalon. Drivers could even get quality SUVs within this budget, with the 2005 Honda CR-V, 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander and 2005 Honda Pilot earning praise. 

New Jersey State Auto offers a number of great used cars for less than $10,000. Drivers who are trying to stick to a budget can head to this facility and browse through a wide selection of quality used cars that are still affordable. The auction lot also has its own financing department, which can help you secure a loan and get behind the wheel of the car you want regardless of the price tag. 

3 Ways To Make A Car More Fuel Efficient

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Posted in General Auto News

Used cars offer plenty of perks for the drivers smart enough to invest in them. Many of the models on the market boast advanced technology, great handling and impressive fuel efficiency. However, there's always more you can do as an owner to make the mileage a bit better – and as a result, keep money in your wallet. 

"Gas prices are lower than they have been for nearly six years and that means big savings for motorists," said Rich White, the executive director of the Car Care Council. "Add to that a proactive auto care plan and you will not only save more now, but as gas prices start to rise again, you'll save later. All because you invested in your vehicle to make sure it runs efficiently."

Here are three areas of car maintenance that need to receive attention if you want to boost fuel efficiency. Don't be afraid to ask a facility like NJ State Auto about these parts or check them out yourself before buying a used car. 

1. Tires 
When your tires are inflated to the right level, your fuel efficiency is optimized. In fact, the Car Care Council reported that this one move could improve mileage by up to 3.3 percent. Check out your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends for each season. You may need to adjust based on the current weather, but simply monitoring the tire pressure throughout the year could result in big savings. 

2. Air filters 
If you're not sure about all of the goings on under the hood, caring for air filters may slip your mind. That would be unfortunate, as this one part plays a big role in fuel efficiency and even acceleration. Make sure you're cleaning and replacing these parts regularly. Not only will this make your fuel tank last longer, but it could also improve the overall driving performance of any car. 

3. Motor oil 
Oil changes need to happen regularly. Most vehicles need an oil change every few thousand miles, but it should also occur before winter and summer, as the seasons typically require a special blend of oil to be the most effective. According to the Car Care Council, using the grade recommended by the automaker also makes a big difference, improving fuel efficiency by about 2 percent. 

What To Bring To The Car Auction Lot

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Posted in General Auto News

You're crunched for time, you're pressed for cash, and you don't have a lot of either to spend. Why would you waste them wandering around a car lot? If you want to make your stop at NJ State Auto Auction as efficient as possible, be sure to bring along a few key items that could come in handy. Even if you start registration and bidding online, having certain information might speed up the entire process. 

Here are five of the must-have items you should bring with you to an auction lot. 

1. Driver's license 
It sounds simple, but it's important: Make sure you bring your driver's license. Whether you need it to verify your identity for final paperwork or take a test drive, this one card could make a big difference. Place your auto insurance card with it so you can be sure you drive off the lot without a problem. 

2. Proof of address  
Most facilities will require you to show some kind of proof of address in addition to a driver's license. Recent bills with your name on them or a copy of your current lease may suffice. This can be difficult, so don't be afraid to get creative with your personal documents. 

3. Financial information 
If you plan on using auto financing, you're going to need to provide some personal financial information. While this is part of the process you can begin online before even heading to the auction lot, it's smart to bring some of the important documentation along. The most basic details involve your credit cards and bank accounts, but be sure to add any other paperwork you think is pertinent. 

4. Smartphone 
We've all got the power to surf the Internet with just the touch of a button – and you should take full advantage of that when shopping for used cars. Keep your device close by in the event something comes up you want to doubled check, or you simply want to stay ahead of the process by remembering certain details about prospective used cars. It also allows you to check out comparable prices on nearby models so you can negotiate the best price. 

5. Pen and paper 
When all else fails, writing down figures and notes can be a huge advantage in the car buying process. Have a pen and paper handy. It's typically faster than trying to type into an electronic device, and it's more versatile as well. 

Make Sure Used Cars Are Ready To Ride

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Posted in Auto Industry News

When you buy a used car, you're putting your trust in a lot of other people. It starts with the manufacturer of the vehicle and extends all the way to the seller handing you the keys. Unfortunately, not all of these individuals have your best interests at heart. Previous owners of the car, for instance, may have ignored recall notices and simply passed along the automobile – leaving you to deal with the later problems. 

Cars aren't being fixed
Carfax analyzed state registration data, ultimately finding that as much as one-fifth of the more than 230 million cars on the road have problems that were never fixed, despite recalls. That means about 46 million vehicles are cruising the open road with some type of faulty part. 

The organization also found that the state of New York has its fair share of unfixed recalls. According to the Carfax data, the Empire State comes in at No. 4 with more than 2.1 million unfixed cars on the road. Pennsylvania followed close behind at No. 5 with 1.9 million faulty vehicles. 

Put safety first
Drivers shouldn't leave their safety up to chance. Any car could have a problem in its history, and even what started as a minor issue could have grown to something big over time. It impacts more than the driver as well, as any failure could put passengers or other motorists in harm's way. 

"It's a very major public safety problem," said Chris Basso, a used car specialist for Carfax. "When those recalled cars go unfixed, they compound over the years, and it increases the chance of those parts failing."

Buying a vehicle with a clean history is your best bet, but with so many recalls happening each year, it's not always feasible. Make sure you do your own research to see if the make and model has been recalled in the past. Once you know what to look for, you'll be in a better position to identify fixes and negotiate price. 

Find a seller you trust
If you're shopping for used cars, it's important to find a trustworthy facility to do business with. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can deal with sellers and financing experts who are actively working to get you the best deal. The lot also contains hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, which means you can scope out the automobile's history and make sure its servicing is up to date.