When you finally decide to upgrade your ride, you've got a lot of tough choices to make. On the surface, these decisions may seem much more difficult than they are, as used cars offer quality and value that are hard to beat. Once you take a good, long look at some used vehicles, you may find that they have everything you want and more – in addition to providing some financial relief. 

Here are three reasons why buying a used car is better than buying new. 

You know what you're getting 
One of the biggest reasons used cars can be better than new ones is because they're known commodities. Brand new models frequently have glitches or other issues that aren't discovered until they hit the road. If you want to avoid recalls, time-consuming repairs and dangerous situations, select a used car that has a reputation for reliability and success. That way, you can rest assured that the car is ready and able to perform on the roads. 

Maintenance keeps it running like new
If someone were to argue the case for a new car, they may claim that it runs better and more smoothly than its used counterpart. However, people who take care of their older vehicles with the proper preventative maintenance don't have much to worry about. Regular tune-ups, oil changes and washes keeps cars looking and performing like new. If you can find a model that's been cared for by previous owners – something that's relatively easy to check with a vehicle history report and examination – you could get that new car experience without the price. 

3. More money for car-related expenses 
Buying a new car can leave you strapped for cash. Not only is the sticker price high, you've also got to fork over more for insurance premiums and pay back bigger loans. With used vehicles, however, you can save money without sacrificing the features you want. 

At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can browse through hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans to find the one that's right for you. Many of these vehicles are a great value, as they're high quality options at affordable prices. If you want to get the most bang for your buck, take a look at some of these used cars for sale. 

When you're searching for a used car, you've got a lot to consider. Chief among your concerns will be how the vehicle fits in your budget – meaning you must think about insurance premiums, monthly payments, fuel efficiency and repair costs. To help drivers get through this tough battle, CarMD recently released its 2014 Vehicle Health Index. 

Finding the most reliable cars
The index is designed to identify the car models with the fewest "check engine"-related repairs, as well as the vehicles that are associated with the lowest repair costs. It looks at more than 40,000 maintenance issues from vehicles dating back to the 2004 model year, all of which occurred from Oct. 1, 2013 to Sept. 30, 2014. 

According to the data, the top manufacturer for few repairs is Honda, which barely beat out Hyundai for the No. 1 spot. They were followed by Toyota, General Motors and Ford. As far as individual vehicles go, the 2012 Toyota Camry rated as the best. This is the second consecutive year this model emerged as the winner, leading the way for five Toyota cars to land in the top 10. 

As far as cost goes, drivers would be smart to look at Mazda. The brand had the lowest average repair expenses, with $302.92 being the typical price. 

What you need to know
Taking a look at some of the most reliable makes and models could give you an idea for your next purchase. Drivers who want to keep costs down would be well-served to take a look at the rankings. Vehicles that tend to be more reliable or have lower average costs could help motorists save time and money. 

"While this index is based on in-use vehicle repairs needed over the past year, it has also proven to be a useful tool in helping car and truck shoppers make informed decisions about the vehicles they are considering," said Doug Sobieski, chief marketing officer of CarMD.

If you're searching for a reliable used car, look no further than NJ State Auto Auction. This lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans. One of these vehicles could be your next ride – thanks in large part to the in-house experts who help drivers with everything from auto financing and loans to car repairs. 

So you want to buy a used car – now what? For most people, the next steps will involve setting a budget and turning to facilities like NJ State Auto Auction for help. While this is a great start, especially for those who need some financial guidance or aren't sure what type of car they want, drivers also need to brush up on their knowledge. 

For instance, prospective buyers should know which features will drive up the price on their desired cars. The NADA Used Car Guide recently outlined a few aspects of a vehicle that will impact the bottom line. It's important for motorists to have a firm grasp of these factors, as well as a few more traditional qualities, to be in the best position to find used cars.   

Mileage
Most drivers know that mileage has a significant effect on a car's value. It's one of the best ways to judge how much wear and tear the vehicle has gone through. This number can also be used as an indicator of what repairs or maintenance issues may pop up in the future. Make sure you get a vehicle history report to determine what's already been done. 

Vehicle redesigns 
According to the NADA, one of the most important factors that impacts value is vehicle redesigns. A car that is just one year newer but has undergone a redesign may be worth as much as 35 percent more than its older counterpart, the organization stated, and it's mostly due to the exterior look. So what does that mean for you? If you want value, try looking for models from right before a redesign. They'll carry many of the same features at a fraction of the price. 

Secondary features 
The NADA noted that the secondary features that impact car prices may surprise some. Fuel economy and power train are two of the most important qualities that go into price. While that's not unusual, what may shock drivers is that these numbers typically outweigh safety features. Similarly, warranties and reliability ratings are also not as important as things like horsepower and torque. 

Drivers will have to find just the right blend of features and value before deciding on the used car of their dreams. Luckily, places like NJ State Auto can help. With hundreds of Carfax-certified used vehicles on the lot, it's the perfect place to begin your search for an affordable model. 

Thinking about all of the financial scams out in the world is enough to send you into the backyard with a shovel to bury all of your cash. It doesn't have to be that way, though. If you're vigilant and use plenty of common sense, you can protect all of your assets while still making all of the purchases you need to. 

It all starts with knowledge. Brush up on a few of the most common scams found in the auto industry so you know what to look out for. 

So-called 'mobile repairmen' 
One of the most prominent scams out there today involves mobile repairmen offering to make auto repairs. These individuals aren't involved with a garage or dealer – instead, they advertise via online message boards, such as Craigslist, and try to woo unsuspecting drivers with low prices and empty promises about timely repairs. However, most of the time these so-called experts are nothing more than con men. They'll do superficial repairs – if that – and then return your car. In a few days, you'll find that there are even more problems and you've been fleeced out of hundreds of dollars. 

"These guys will do terrible work, they're unlicensed, shoddy work, wrong materials," Eric Friedman, of the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection, told WJLA. "They'll probably cause more problems. They'll take the money and run."

Open sale negotiations
If you go to buy a used car and the salesperson, whether from a dealership or an independent owner, leaves any part of the transaction up for interpretation, you should get out immediately. Forbes magazine recommended reading over all documents and making sure everything is set in stone before you drive away. In some instances, new owners will be contacted days later, with the seller stating that there was some type of problem with the credit application or other procedure. This could be a scheme to get more money from the buyer, but you can avoid falling into this trap by hashing out all of the details before taking the car. 

To find used cars safely, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. This lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans, so you can rest assured you're getting a high-quality vehicle at a bargain of a price. It even has its own repair garage, called the Total Car Care Center, which is able to address any auto issues you may have without resorting to shady personalities on the Internet. 

Safety should be your No. 1 concern when you're behind the wheel. Most people address this matter with defensive driving and plenty of attention, but there's a slew of auto features that can help keep you secure in your ride. Among the most popular is rear cameras, which show drivers what's happening in the space directly behind a car, including areas lower to the ground that can often be blocked from view. 

Cameras increase safety
One recent study from AAA focused on the effectiveness of rear-view cameras. According to the report, these devices increased visibility by 36 percent in smaller sedans to nearly 75 percent in hatchbacks, with an average of 46 percent for all of the tested cars and trucks. Even the smallest improvement could prevent collisions, so the impressive range delivered by the cameras is a boon for many drivers. 

"Rear-view cameras are a great supplement for drivers," said John Nielsen, AAA's managing director of automotive engineering. "Cameras don't replace the need to check around your vehicle for obstacles before getting in to back up, but they do dramatically improve rear visibility. These systems are especially helpful for viewing the first 10 feet behind the vehicle, which are the most hazardous in terms of back-over risk for young children."

Many options for drivers
The good news is you don't have to pay a crazy amount of money for a brand new vehicle to take advantage of rear-view cameras. Not only are there a few lightly used models that boast this feature, but you can even buy the system separately and have it installed. The only difference is that you'll have to find space on your dashboard to fit the miniscreen. 

Cameras can be a big help, but they don't show the whole picture. Drivers still have to use their windows and mirrors, along with any other sensors, to ensure that they are safely maneuvering their cars. Additionally, the devices can be compromised by inclement weather, so be sure to clean them regularly. 

Rear-view cameras are going to be required on all new vehicles by the year 2016, but in the meantime, even drivers on a budget can tap into this technology. Looking for a car with these features? Browse through the selection at NJ State Auto Auction. This lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans available for purchase, and many of these options have high-tech features that drivers love. 

The sight of an idling police car on the side of the road is enough to make any driver nervous. Even if you're traveling at the speed limit, passing by a radar gun can be nerve-wracking. Motorists may have to get used to this feeling, however, as a recent innovation resulted in a radar gun that lets police know if a driver is texting while driving. 

Is texting really that big of a problem? 
In short, yes. The Federal Communications Commission reported that text messaging while driving increases the risk of a crash by 23 percent. Additionally, about 11 percent of drivers ages 18 to 20 who were involved in an accident admitted to sending or receiving texts at the moment it happened. 

To prevent this type of distracted driving from becoming more of a problem, 44 states have banned texting behind the wheel, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. Enforcing these laws is difficult, however, which is where the new invention comes into play. 

How does it work?
According to The Virginian-Pilot, the gun senses radio frequencies coming from cellphones inside a car. The device can even distinguish between texting and making a phone call, but it is not able to read what type of data is being transferred should an individual be using a smartphone to complete a different task. Although this device isn't being mass produced quite yet – and it still needs legal approval – there's a good chance it could be used on the roads in the near future. 

What can you do? 
Can you do anything about the texting radar gun? Probably not, but a good place to start would be to put down the phone when you get behind the wheel. The next step is making sure the car you drive has plenty of safety tools and other features that help you out on the road. 

It pays to shop around for the right car. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, for example, you can search through hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans to find the one that meets all of your needs. Maybe it's a subtle color that police won't pay as much attention to, or perhaps it has new technology that allows you to listen to messages without taking your hands off the wheel. No matter what, finding a vehicle with extra safety features – at an affordable price – can make a huge difference. 

Are you interested in buying a used car? Then you might be in luck. The economic landscape is currently very hospitable to prospective drivers, with low sticker prices, falling fuel costs and other financing options offering plenty of opportunities for savvy shoppers. 

Used car prices 
The Wall Street Journal reported that used car prices have fallen for four straight months. That included August, and with plenty of September sales and end-of-summer specials taking place, the trend likely continued throughout the month. 

While the cost of these pre-owned vehicles is dropping, it's important to note that it is coming down from historic highs. So although the price of a used car might be less than what it was in the spring, it is likely still more expensive than in past years. Of course, this all depends on what makes, models and model years you're looking at, so there is sure to be plenty of ways to find great value. 

Ownership costs remains manageable 
Buying a used car is just the beginning. Drivers who find themselves behind the wheel also have to be ready to make monthly insurance payments, pay off loans and invest in any necessary maintenance. All of this can add up quickly, which is why you need to be smart about your investment. 

For example, finding a used car with great fuel economy could save you money in the long run. According to a report from AAA, the national average for a gallon of gas consistently dropped throughout September, and as of Sept. 22 it sat at $3.34 per gallon. This figure continues to fall due to a decrease in demand, as many summer travelers are settling close to home for autumn, and the seasonal switch to less expensive winter oil. All of that may seem like just a lucky break, but it can actually mean major savings for people who get plenty of miles to the gallon. 

If you're ready to buy a used car, consider turning to New Jersey State Auto Auction for help. This auction lot is packed with hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans – one of which could be perfect for your next ride. It also has an in-house financing team ready and willing to help you wade through the numbers and determine which buying option is right for you. 

Few things are as annoying as gas prices. They're up, they're down, and they're always draining your wallet of hard-earned cash. This fall, however, fuel might not be such a money pit. 

Relief from the heat – and gas prices
Summer is usually the worst time of the year for drivers with regard to gas prices. Not only are more people driving, which drives up demand, but refineries are also selling a more expensive blend of gasoline compared to the winter months. This can result in a lot of money being poured into gas tanks, and this summer was no different.

AAA found that the average price of a gallon of gas in the U.S. this summer was $3.58. That is the fourth-most expensive mark on record and relatively on par with the costs last year. However, there is some good news: After an expensive start to the season, gas prices consistently declined and are poised to drop even further this September. In fact, AAA predicted that the prices could decrease by as much as 20 cents per gallon by the end of October. 

"The big crunch in summer travel is done and most of us can look forward to lower gas prices during the next few months," said Avery Ash, a AAA spokesman. "If we can get through September without any major refinery or overseas problems, we should see more gas stations drop below $3.00 per gallon this fall."

Celebrate with a road trip
With gas prices and the temperature gauges both falling, it could be the perfect time to embark on that road trip you've always wanted to take. Whether you're heading south to enjoy the Atlantic coast for one last time before winter sets in or want to venture north to check out some of the gorgeous foliage in upstate New York, you may find gas prices are in your favor. 

If you decide to hit the open road, be sure you've adequately prepared for any circumstance. It is essential to have an emergency kit stowed somewhere in the car in the event you become stranded, and for peace of mind, you should get a tuneup before you leave. Contact the pros at New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center. The garage caters to the public and can address any issues you may have. 

Are you looking for a used car? Many people are always in the market for a fresh ride, but you need to be aware of some factors that impact the value of a used car – no matter if you're buying or selling. 

Here are three qualities drivers should keep in mind: 

Geography 
If you're buying a used car in New York or New Jersey, then chances are you'll be purchasing a vehicle that has spent the majority of its life in the NY/NJ area. This is important to know, as the geography and climate a car has lived in impacts its resale value. A car that has spent most of its life dealing with hot summers and frigid winters, for instance, may need specific work done because of the temperature fluctuations, such as battery maintenance. 

For example, you should use a vehicle history report to determine if a car has had any water damage, potentially from major storms like Hurricane Sandy. It is also beneficial to learn whether a car has been used primarily for driving in the suburbs or in congested city traffic. 

Color
There are a lot of fads that come and ago, and the hot colors of the season are no exception. To make sure you aren't purchasing a ride with a color that will hurt its resale value, stick to a few classic tones. Bankrate.com noted that trendy shades may seem fun in the moment, but a few years down the line they may be more detrimental to your car's value. 

Condition
Of course, the condition of the vehicle is also something that must be taken into consideration. The quality of the used car itself greatly affects the price, so it's in your best interest to take care of a vehicle so you can keep its value up. Stick to a maintenance schedule, get regular tuneups and make sure you are taking on any necessary auto repair before it becomes a problem. 

Once you've decided to take the leap and buy a used car, plan a trip to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot has hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans from which to choose. You can also take advantage of our in-house finance team, as they are ready to help anyone secure the auto loans they need.