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How To Avoid The Worst Tri-State Area Traffic

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Posted in How To

Drivers in the tri-state area are no strangers to heavy traffic. Whether you're trying to get in or out of New York City, fighting out-of-towners on the turnpike or battling summer beachgoers by the shore, you know what it's like to wait behind a line of other idling cars. No one likes this obstacle, as it adds a lot of time to a commute and can put drivers at risk for collisions. 

What drivers need to know
TomTom recently released a study on traffic congestion throughout the U.S. Most of the worst examples of these vehicular back-ups occur during the afternoon rush hour. In fact, the report found that commuters spent so much time stuck in traffic in 2014 that they could have traveled to the moon and back as many as 2.5 times. And that only counts congestion from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. – meaning the real figures are much more significant. 

Avoiding annoying traffic
So you want to bypass the worst of the traffic – now what? TomTom noted that people in the New York area may want to use a few pieces of knowledge to their advantage. For starters, people leaving the city may want to avoid leaving on the hour, such as at 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., in favor of departing at the 30- or 45-minute mark. The report stated that leaving at these times, whether it's 5:30 p.m., 5:45 p.m. or 4:45 p.m., can take as much as 25 minutes off of your travel time. Conversely, people who leave at 5 p.m. on the dot may find that an hour-long commute doubles to nearly two hours. 

How to save money and time
You can take advantage of every driving trick in the book, but odds are you're still going to end up stuck in traffic – at least periodically. This doesn't have to be the end of the world. People who are behind the wheel of reliable, efficient vehicles can rest assured that they – and their wallets – are protected on the roads. A good car will be fuel efficient, so it doesn't waste too much gas idling. 

If you don't trust your current ride in traffic, don't waste time and head over to NJ State Auto Auction. There you can browse through hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans to find a vehicle that meets all of your needs. Not only can these automobiles handle traffic smoothly, but they can also save you gas money in the long run. 

4 Ways To Repair Your Credit

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Once you’ve checked your credit score, you may be reeling from the subpar results. If your rating is lower than you expected, don’t stress, as there are ways to improve your credit history and put yourself in a better position to secure loans.

An acceptable credit score is essential for people who want to shop used cars. You’ll likely need some kind of auto financing to complete the purchase, and you want to be in a position to get the best interest rates and credit options possible. When you’re getting ready to buy a used car, make sure you’re taking advantage of a few credit best practices to improve your personal score. 

1. Pay on time 
Even payments that are only a few days late will negatively impact your credit score. Do your best to pay every bill on time. Some people like to set up automatic payments or reminders, both of which can be helpful to absentminded borrowers. Form a routine where you pay consistently to prove you are a reliable client. 

2. Go above the minimum
Making only minimum payments is a surefire way to remain in debt. Not only will you wind up owing money for years on end, but you’ll also have to pay more on interest rates and remain stagnant with your credit score. Whenever possible, pay more than what’s required, and if you find yourself with some extra cash, don’t hesitate to make a lump payment that relieves some of your debt. 

3. Seek help if needed 
There’s no shame in needing a bit of help to sort through your credit. Special counselors are available to provide insight and guidance to borrowers in tough situations. People can also reach out to the creditors themselves to explore their options. New repayment plans or potentially even some late-payment forgiveness could do wonders for your credit score. 

4. Be smart about big purchases
The whole reason you may have checked your credit score is in preparation of buying something big. However, if your history is really that poor, you may want to wait until you improve your payment habits. Older credit problems, such as missed or late payments, count for less, but you need to have a good track record since then. 

Sometimes your purchases just can’t wait. When that’s the case, New Jersey State Auto Auction is here to help. The auction lot has a financing department that offers guaranteed credit approval and is accustomed to dealing with drivers who may have a not-so-perfect credit history. Let this team of experts help you get behind a quality used car quickly and affordably. 

Should You Check Your Credit Before Buying A Car?

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

When you're gearing up to buy a used car, you face a lot of tough decisions. Not only do you have to crunch the numbers to figure out what your budget is and what type of loan you can repay, but you're also required to sort through many choices regarding your personal taste and preferred aesthetic.

While choosing a color for your future car may be easy, the rest of the budgeting isn't. That's why you need to arm yourself with plenty of knowledge before going to the car lot. For many, this starts with knowing their credit score – but is that where you should begin your car-buying journey as well? 

The answer is simple … 
Should you check your credit score before heading to a used car dealership? The short answer: Yes. The longer answer: Yes, but it's more complicated than that. Simply learning what these three digits are isn't going to change much – how you respond to the figure will. For instance, you can begin researching the type of loans people with your credit score often receive. You should also be combing through the material in search of easy ways you can improve, such as increasing the balance you pay on a certain monthly bill. 

Many people are ignorant about their credit scores simply because trying to find out this number can be confusing. Luckily, there are many resources available today that give you access to your score. The Fair Credit Reporting Act decreed that every person is entitled to one free credit report each year, so you can head to an official website, answer some personal questions and then receive your information. Make sure you print out the report so you can refer back to the information. 

… But the next step is not 
Checking your credit score is a necessary step, but you'll still have a lot of decisions to make after it. Rather than letting your hard work get lost in the shuffle, let the financing department at New Jersey State Auto Auction help you out. This crew is ready and able to provide you with advice and guidance as you browse the lot's used cars. And with guaranteed credit approval, you can be sure you're in a position to get behind the wheel sooner rather than later. 

How To Care For A Car In Winter

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Posted in How To

Winter has finally arrived in full force. With low temperatures, snow flurries and icy roads on the horizon for the next few months, drivers have to become accustomed to dealing with these conditions and all of their side effects. The first step toward a successful season of driving is knowledge: Motorists need to know what to expect in the coming months and how to put themselves in the best position to stay safe. 

Know the effects of the cold
The first thing drivers should be aware of is how winter weather will impact their vehicle. For instance, many may know that tire pressure varies wildly when there's fluctuating temperatures, but fewer make a point to switch to low-viscosity winter oil to protect their engine from the effects of the cold. Having a clear idea of the benefits of preventative maintenance and winter updates will allow you to make smart, informed decisions that ultimately protect yourself and others. 

"Sub-zero temperatures can have a real impact on your vehicle," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. "Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance and rough idling, and very cold temperatures reduce battery power." 

Keep a full tank – sort of
Stopping to get gas when it's cold outside can be a real nuisance. In New Jersey, drivers are helped by full service stations, but anyone who frequently travels to New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania or another nearby state knows that having someone pump your gas is a special luxury. Don't let it go to waste, and instead make sure you're filling up your fuel regularly. When the tank is about half full – at least – it decreases the risk of freezing gas lines and other problems. Having a full tank also puts you in a better position to deal with slow-moving traffic on the roads or wait out surprise harsh weather. 

Trust your car
When you need your car to get you from one place to another in inclement weather, you need to trust it can do its job. That all starts with having a quality used car. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can find an automobile that meets all of your needs without draining your wallet. You can browse through hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans to find one capable of carrying you throughout winter.

How To Get Low Loan Interest Rates

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Used cars offer a lot of perks for drivers, but one of the biggest is affordability. However, the bottom line can creep higher and higher if you find yourself stuck paying off an auto loan with a high interest rate. To avoid this, most people try to get the lowest rates possible – but figuring out how to accomplish this can be tough. You should keep a few tips in mind as you mull over your loan options. 

Check your credit 
The first thing you should do when considering auto financing is learn your credit score. This is going to impact many aspects of your loan – including the interest rate – so it's in your best interest to know what it says. Looking at the report ahead of time also gives you the chance to scope out any errors. 

If there are any glaring problems or red flags on your credit report, do your best to have proof of improvement on hand when you discuss options with a financing department. You can also conduct some prior research to familiarize yourself with what to expect. 

Take a look at loan length
You probably have a few ideas in mind regarding the type of loan you're looking for. Some people want shorter loans to get the debt over with as soon as possible, while others might want longer terms that allow for lower monthly payments. If your priority is low interest rates, however, you may want to give shorter loans a second look. Cars.com reported that longer loans tend to have higher interest, so choosing the shortest length you're comfortable with may be beneficial. 

Find relief in your budget
A higher interest rate than you were hoping for isn't the end of the world. If you think it'll strain your budget, look around for other areas where you can save. For instance, an auto auction gives you a chance to bid on the used car of your choice, allowing you to save on the sale price of a vehicle and potentially decrease your bottom line. 

Use a trusted company
The company you secure financing from should be one you can trust. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, we know that buying a used car is a big commitment that can get confusing. That's why we have our financing department on site, ready to help you complete the necessary paperwork and get credit approval quickly. 

5 Things To Check In A Used Car

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Posted in General Auto News

As you hunt high and low for the best used cars, you're going to have to keep track of a lot of tiny details. Everything from preferred car color to mileage to sticker price has to be meticulously organized and accounted for in a budget, and that takes a lot of effort. In fact, it may even distract you from focusing on some other important aspects of the used cars. 

The next time you're looking at a used car, make sure you're paying attention to these five aspects of the vehicle. Each one can have a major impact on your auto-related decisions. 

1. Recall history 
Checking out the recall history of a used car is more cautionary than anything. Some vehicles may have a clean record, but if there's any that have been involved in a recall, you need to ensure they've had the necessary repairs. A thorough vehicle history report or repair summary should have these details. 

2. Driver complaints 
As you're looking up details of certain makes and models, take the time to examine any documented driver complaints. If you know what other drivers noticed during their time behind the wheel, you'll be in a better position to evaluate performance, judge a test drive and even negotiate a price. 

3. Strange smells 
Your test drive will likely involve getting comfortable in the driver's seat and evaluating the car's road performance. However, that's not all you need to look at. Take note of any strange odors in the car itself. Consumer Reports noted that musty smells may indicate that there was a leak or water problem, while other scents could be a sign that a previous owner was a smoker. 

4. Maintenance costs 
It's relatively easy to look up the average maintenance costs for certain brands or models. Although some of these expenses might not come into play, it's best to know ahead of time what you can expect so you can factor it into your budget. 

5. Average expenses 
Maintenance or repair costs can vary based on many factors, but other expenses will stay relatively flat throughout your time as a car owner. It's best to work out these costs before you buy. Take the time to determine what your hypothetical monthly payments would be for insurance, loans and fuel. This allows you to work out a budget and figure out what you'd be willing to bid at a facility like NJ State Auto Auction. With so many quality used cars on this lot, it's easy to find a car, truck or van that meets all of your needs. 

5 Benefits Of Buying Cars At An Auto Auction

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Posted in General Auto News

You've probably a heard a lot of different things about auto auctions. Some of these rumors are likely accurate, while others are more exaggeration than fact. So what are some truths that you need to know? It certainly helps to be aware of the advantages of an auto auction, and that means you should be keeping these five perks in mind. 

1. Cut through the red tape
When you buy a car, you usually have to go through long processes and bundles of paperwork. That's not the case at an auto auction. In fact, places like NJ State Auto pride themselves on providing buyers with options that allow them to drive off the lot with their purchase as soon as possible. To help, the financing department even offers same-day credit approval, which gives you some of the monetary assistance you need to finalize a purchase. 

2. Find lower prices
Many drivers will be drawn to the great value at auto auctions. CarsDirect noted that many sticker prices at auto auctions can't be found anywhere else, and bidding options can allow drivers to save even more. When you only bid what you think a car is worth, you can avoid high prices and take advantage of great deals. 

3. Browse a high volume of vehicles
Another benefit of these auctions is that they often have a wide range of vehicles for sale. At New Jersey Auto Auction, for example, you can browse the hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans available on the lot. Not only are you able to look through many makes and models, but you can also check out cars from different age ranges. This makes it easy to find the type of car and features you want, all while staying within a budget. 

4. Speed up the process
Auto auctions often allow you to act much more quickly than traditional dealerships. You have the option to begin registration paperwork before you even get to the lot, and you can start the bidding process almost immediately. Those who don't want to waste any time can select the "buy now" option. 

5. Trust the vehicle maintenance 
If you're buying a used car at an auto auction, you know the lot has checked the vehicle over and given the machine its stamp of approval. Additionally, easy access to a vehicle history report allows you to scope out the car's past and evaluate any damage or maintenance that it has been through. The auction may also have its own car care center, which you can keep in mind in case you need any work done in the future. 

Act Fast When Buying A Used Car

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Posted in Auto Industry News

Shopping around for a used car can be overwhelming for drivers – especially those who are desperate to stick to a budget. That's why it's helpful to keep a few tips and tricks in mind as you browse for vehicles. However, even that can be a problem, as there's a lot of information floating around. You can navigate these waters by keeping some key ideas in mind. 

Snatch up great deals
Carlypso, a new technology-based company focusing on car sales, recently released a study detailing some of the current trends in the auto industry. One of the biggest pieces of advice the organization had was to act quickly when you come across a good deal. If you can find a vehicle that's being offered below market value, you should pounce on it. According to the report, these cars usually sell within about 10 days of hitting the market, so there's no time to waste. The better the deal, the faster you need to move: For every 1 percent drop in price, the average speed of sale jumps by nearly 1.5 days, Carlypso reported. 

Wait out bad prices
Maybe you have a car in mind, but the price isn't exactly what you want. You have a few options in this case. Carlypso recommended waiting it out. According to the organization, used cars often enter the market at a seller-friendly price. When that doesn't garner a lot of attention, the price may drop, with some sellers even decreasing the sticker price as many as three times. Of course, this may not be much of a problem when you use an auto auction. That allows you to name your own price and only bid what you think the car is worth – a move that has potential to save you big time. 

Be smart to save money
The most important thing to do is remain calm and think through each decision. Luckily, that's easy at New Jersey State Auto Auction. This lot offers hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, with the majority of these vehicles boasting low prices. It even has an in-house financing department ready to help drivers figure out how they will afford a used car and secure credit approval. Best of all, the finance team knows how to do all of this quickly, allowing you to jump on any deals you find. 

The Most Popular Used Cars Of 2014

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Posted in Auto Industry News

With 2014 in the rearview mirror, it's time to look ahead to what 2015 has in store. This is especially true for the automotive industry, which had a stellar year for sales. Drivers were able to reap many of the benefits of these strong 12 months, as many dealerships offered low costs lower costs, special incentives and high quality – perks that are normally reserved for people who are willing to fork over a ton of cash for new models.

Now, however, motorists can tap into the many advantages provided by some of the most popular used cars on the market. But first, they have to figure out which used cars are the most sought-after. 

The biggest used vehicles of 2014
AutoTrader analyzed data to determine which models garnered the most attention throughout 2014. According to the results, the most popular used vehicle of the year was the Ford F-150. That's not surprising, as the pickup truck has reigned supreme as the most popular purchase in the U.S. for several years. 

What may come as a shock is the number of large trucks and SUVs that ranked highly among used car buyers. Just behind the Ford F-150 were the Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and even the Ford F-250 managed to snag a spot in the top five. Also demanding plenty of attention was the Ram 1500 pickup, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Toyota Tacoma. 

"Lower gas prices and many new or refreshed entries also helped boost new truck popularity, particularly in the back half of the year," said Michelle Krebs, an AutoTrader.com senior analyst.

Looking ahead to 2015
While those vehicles may have been popular in 2014, there's no telling what trends could take root in the upcoming year. Regardless of what happens to the auto industry or the economy, however, drivers can find just what they're looking for at New Jersey State Auto Auction. This lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans available for sale. 

Even if you're not the type of driver who wants to be behind the wheel of a large SUV or pickup truck, you can find exactly what you're looking for at a competitive price. Your needs may vary depending on your situation and the market, but no matter what, you can be sure you're getting a good deal at NJ State Auto Auction. 

Use Holiday Cash To Buy A Used Car

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Did your family members give you some cold hard cash for the holidays? For many, money is the go-to gift during the festive season, as it allows the recipient to spend it on something that truly matters to them. No matter how large or small the amount, money can help you get exactly what you want during the holidays – even if the thing you want the most is a car. 

Use money for a down payment
If you've got a nice little stack of cash left over from the holidays, it could make the perfect down payment – or at least part of one – for a used car. Even a little bit of holiday money added to your savings can reduce the amount you owe later and lower your monthly payments. If you're more concerned about making those payments on time, allocate these extra funds for later bills, whether they be for insurance premiums, loan repayment or general car maintenance. 

Let auto loans do the rest
Once you've got the down payment squared away, it's time to figure out how you're going to pay for the rest of the car. Most people turn to auto loans for help. However, some prospective drivers may think their credit score is too low or their history too unseemly to secure a loan. That's not the case at NJ State Auto, as anyone who stops by the in-house financing department will find that they're quickly and easily approved for credit. 

Trust the auto dealer
Before you can get behind the wheel of the right used car, you have to find a dealership that can help you get what you want. Few places are better at this than New Jersey State Auto Auction. Not only does the lot have hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, but it also has a few options that allow drivers to go about the buying process in whatever way works best for them. For instance, you can bid on used cars as part of the auto auction, or you can choose to buy a model outright and drive it off the lot on the same day. It all depends on what is right for you and your bank account.