Category Archives: How To

Get Car Shopping Started On The Right Foot In 2014

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The start of a new year is the perfect time to begin a looking for a used car. You may feel the need to find a used car capable of handling winter driving demands or one that can safely deliver your family to summertime destinations, but no matter what, the process of selecting that automobile will likely require a lot of time and effort. To make it easier on your mind and your wallet, keep two important aspects in mind: 

Comprehensive budgeting
Most drivers are familiar with the idea of creating – and sticking to – a budget. However, the price range you decide on when shopping for used cars should be the result of many different factors. In addition to the initial sticker price of a car, you also need to consider the insurance and gas costs, which will involve your own driving history as well as the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Then, factors such as average repair costs and loan payments need to be taken into account. 

Research all options
Once you have decided on a final budget, you should research all aspects of the shopping process. For example, what types of vehicles are best for you and your family? What features must be included? Will you need an auto loan? How long do you want the loan repayment plan to be? The answers to these questions will help to guide your budget as well as where you begin looking for a vehicle. 

Anyone searching for a used car should consider checking out the selection at NJ State Auto Auction. Not only does the lot house hundreds of CARFAX-certified vehicles, but the facility also has a financing department capable of helping you make decisions about what you can afford. 

How To Handle Winter Breakdowns

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Almost all drivers know they have to look twice when they get behind the wheel in the middle of winter. Freezing temperatures, poor visibility, slippery roads and other factors can severely inhibit the safety of all motorists on the roads, and being a defensive driver is a solid first step toward avoiding a problem. However, too often there are breakdowns or collisions that are seemingly unavoidable – largely due to black ice or the actions of others on the roads. 

If you find yourself in one of these situations, you can keep a few things in mind to make it easier to handle the aftermath. For one, make sure you take pictures or even a video of the scene. If damage has been done to your car or other property, having evidence of the harm is key. At the same time, you shouldn't abstain from immediately calling your insurance provider and, if necessary, filing a police report. Timeliness can play an important role when making an insurance claim, so you're going to want to handle the situation as quickly and efficiently as possible. 

No matter what, you should remember that safety is your top priority. Don't get out of a vehicle and wander around if there is poor visibility or you could be at risk for another accident. Keeping flashlights and reflective signs or tape in a car may be helpful, as you can alert others as to your location in a safe manner. 

Of course, you should always be taking steps to avoid a breakdown or accident altogether. Preventative measures such as auto tune ups can go a long way toward bypassing problems, but unfortunately, these steps can only take you so far. If you find yourself in need of a check-in or a consult, consider reading out to the Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The garage can provide insight as well as basic repairs. 

How To Get Your Car Ready For A Smog Check

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In today's economy, a vehicle's fuel economy is particularly important, but it is just one of many factors that play into a car's overall function. Another quality that should not be overlooked is how environmentally friendly an automobile is, and the easiest way to check is with a smog test. Although many drivers might not think about their car's harmful emissions until it becomes a problem, taking a few steps early on can make a big difference. 

At its most basic level, a smog check examines a vehicle to see if its emissions output is reaching harmful levels of pollution. Although almost all cars will have some kind of emissions, those that are operating at a low level will typically have worse results. This may be a sign that certain types of repairs are needed. 

Edmunds.com offered several recommendations for drivers looking to check their vehicle's emissions and improve the chances it passes a smog check. One of the most important actions drivers can take is to keep up with regular maintenance. For example, when the check engine light comes on, it could be a sign of a faulty oxygen sensor, which in turn may lead to a mixture of gas and air that causes harmful emissions. 

Similarly, updates like changing the oil when it is needed, properly inflating tires, and refilling coolants and other fluids can go a long way toward passing a smog check. All of these tasks are relatively simple actions that improve the overall function and efficiency of a car, and therefore can make the emissions better as well. 

If you think something may be off with your car, take it to be looked at by the professionals at the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction. The garage caters to the public and can address any issues you may have, ranging from basic vehicle maintenance to more intensive repairs. 

How To Drive Safely On Ice

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Winter driving poses many challenges for motorists, and one of the most difficult is learning how to handle a vehicle on slick, icy surfaces. Below are a few tips that drivers should keep in mind as they get behind the wheel in areas where there may be frozen roads: 

Limit technology
While features like cruise control or driver-assist can be a big help to some motorists, they should be used with caution in the winter. Car owners need to be in full control of a vehicle at all times, which is not possible when some of these tools are employed. 

Watch out for certain icy areas
Some stretches of the road may be more susceptible to icy patches. For example, AAA reported that bridges and overpasses tend to freeze first and melt last, so drivers need to pay extra attention when crossing over these roads. Sticking to cleared lanes can also be a major advantage, as switching lanes unnecessarily can expose a car to hidden patches of ice and snow that were not cleared by plows. 

Have an emergency kit
All drivers should have some tools in their car in the event of an emergency. Ice scrapers, extra fuel and flashlights are all important to have. Motorists should also consider stocking up on gravel or sand, which can be used to provide traction on icy surfaces. 

Having a vehicle that is performing at a high level with all safety features working properly is incredibly important in the winter. Drivers who want to make sure their automobile is safe can bring their ride to the Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The garage caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have. 

Drivers Turn To Carpools To Save Time and Money

How To Stay Safe During The Holiday Shopping Period

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Staying focused and alert on the roads is just the first step toward staying safe during the holidays. Drivers also have to be aware while in parking lots outside retail spots, as this is a popular time of the year for car thieves to strike. With so many individuals storing recent purchases in their cars, taking measures to keep all possessions secure is extremely important. 

One simple way to cut back on the risk of theft is by locking all items in the trunk or using a cargo cover. Keeping purchases out of the view of prying eyes can reduce the chances you are the victim of a theft. Additionally, using hidden storage compartments throughout a vehicle is also advantageous, as it can keep expensive gifts out of sight and away from thieves. Although these practices may be helpful, you should always try to drop things off at home as soon as possible to avoid problems.

Drivers should also consider parking away from the store entrance. Sticking to lighted areas is essential, but keeping away from the most hectic areas of a parking lot can limit potential damage to a vehicle, whether it's from runaway carriages or other automobiles. No matter where you park, however, you should use all mirrors and rearview cameras you have. These tools can be tremendously helpful when it comes to avoiding the many other shoppers and cars in a lot, and they should be taken advantage of whenever possible. 

Not all vehicles are well equipped to handle the rigors of the holiday shopping period or rugged winter driving. As such, many motorists begin looking at used cars for sale to find an option that is both safe and functional. NJ State Auto Auction has plenty of top-notch vehicles, including hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that could be the perfect choice for any driver. 

How To Avoid Buying Flood-Damaged Cars

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It has been more than one year since Superstorm Sandy devastated the Northeast, but the effects of the hurricane are still being felt – especially on the roads. That is because a number of vehicles damaged by the storm and subsequent flooding have been passed off as high-quality and sold to unsuspecting drivers all around the U.S.

While these automobiles may look fine, they often have extensive damage under the hood and within the frame, and those issues often rear their head after a short amount of time with a new owner. These problems can be a hassle, but there are a few things drivers can look out for to avoid purchasing a flood-damaged car. 

"Flood-damaged cars end up going places where consumers don't suspect it," Larry Gamache, CARFAX's communications director, told Edmunds.com. "But as con men get smarter, we get smarter on how we deter it." 

First, prospective buyers should be sure to check the car's undercarriage. Any signs or rust or flaking metal that appears out of place may be a warning sign. Similarly, if the carpet or upholstery is discolored, it could be an omen of flood damage. Drivers should also examine the headlights and taillights for foggy buildup on the interior, and the engine compartment and trunk should also be checked for water lines or other giveaways. 

Another quality that may be a red flag is any unusual odors. A musty or moldy smell could be indicative of mildew in hidden areas of the vehicle. If there is an overwhelming scent of bleach, cleaner or air freshener, it could be a way of masking some kind of odor, so pay extra attention in those situations as well. 

One of the easiest ways to avoid cars that have been damaged by floods or water is to shop at an auction lot you trust. Places such as NJ State Auto are ideal, as it carried CARFAX-certified vehicles that are both reliable and affordable. 

How To Care For Winter Tires

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By now, many motorists are well aware of the advantages that winter or snow tires bring to the table. These tools are made for cold conditions and offer a variety of benefits for drivers, but they must be cared for properly to maintain their qualities throughout harsh weather. 

"Every aspect of a winter tire has been engineered to provide the best performance in winter conditions and temperature fluctuations, while maintaining traction on any surface," said Mark Marrufo of Discount Tire. "The winter tire advantage will maximize your safety and provide peace of mind during the winter months." 

Once a driver has made the switch to winter tires from standard all-season wheels – an action that should happen as soon as temperatures dip below 45 degrees – they need to start caring for them. That begins with making sure the wheels themselves are fit to handle winter tires and referring to an owner's manual for specific instructions about installation. The manual can also provide insight as to the tires' optimal air pressure. Under- or over-inflating tires can lead to uneven traction or safety concerns, so it is best to regularly measure these levels and refill to the proper pressure. 

Drivers should also take steps to continue normal tire maintenance. Tire rotation and wheel alignment are necessary parts of vehicle care, and if they are ignored it may negatively affect the tires themselves. Be sure to take care of these issues at the standard intervals, even if you have just recently switched to winter tires. 

Any drivers who prioritizes their safety will want to make sure their vehicle is ready for winter. If not, it may be time to visit New Jersey Auto Auction. Not only does the lot have hundreds of CARFAX-certified used cars, trucks and vans, but it also boasts the Total Car Care Center, which can address any maintenance issues you may have with an existing model. 

How To Stay Safe When Driving In Winter

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As the temperatures around many parts the U.S. continue to drop, more drivers are preparing themselves for getting behind the wheel in the winter. While much of this involves taking a car in for a tune up or investing in gear like snow tires, drivers will be looking for safe vehicles and brushing up on ways to stay safe on the roads. 

Michelin recently unveiled its Winter Driving Academy, an interactive, online information source that provides tips for safely operating a vehicle in colder weather. The guide explains that drivers should make the switch to winter tires when temperatures dip below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, and car owners also need to check tire pressure consistently to ensure the wheels can grip slick surfaces. 

Motorists are advised to spread out on the roads, leaving plenty of space between their car and others. That way, should a driver have to make a sudden stop, he or she has enough time to react appropriately – without coming too close to other vehicles. They should also make sure gas tanks are kept at least half full to avoid a frozen gas line. 

"Drivers need to understand and respect winter conditions," said Carl Nadeau, a professional race car driver and an expert at the Michelin Winter Driving Academy. "It's important to adapt driving to existing conditions, especially when facing winter hazards such as black ice and slush." 

If drivers are looking for a safe vehicle that can handle the rigors of winter, they may want to check out the selection of used cars for sale at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot has hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that could prove to be the right choice for motorists in search of a pre-owned vehicle. 

How To Have A Good Test Driving Experience

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The test drive is an integral part of the car-shopping process. A good or bad experience may sway you from one vehicle to another and could have a significant impact on what you'll be driving for the foreseeable future. Before you get behind the wheel of a potential ride, however, you should know what to expect and how to approach the situation. 

Edmunds.com recommends that each driver begin a test drive by checking out the quirks of a vehicle. You should be paying attention to any minor issues you notice, as well as how comfortable the car is, because this will have a big effect on how you feel about the automobile in the long run. In many instances, this is just as important as focusing on the car's performance.

"It's a little like trying on clothes," said Philip Reed, the senior consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com. "People come in different sizes and shapes, and they have different tastes in what they want. The little things that you spot now could be major annoyances later, so don't discount any of your reactions." 

For example, you should take note of how easy it is to get in and out of the car. Are you liable to bang your head? Does the seat belt fit comfortably over your body? Is it easy to read the dashboard and gauges? All of these questions, as well as similar inquiries about how you can sit in the driver's seat, should be addressed during the testing period. 

Of course, the key to having a good test drive is getting behind the wheel of a quality car. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, there are hundreds of options of CARFAX-certified vehicles – and any one of them could be a viable option for your next investment. 

Tips For Car Seat Safety

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Parents want to do whatever they can to keep their children safe, especially when they are in a car. Getting behind the wheel means putting kids in a car seat or booster seat for maximum protection, but some of these devices are complicated and may be unknowingly used ineffectively. 

To prevent problems, parents should be aware of a few basic tips for car seat safety. Follow all instructions regarding the height and weight restrictions of different restraints. For example, children should be in rear-facing seats until they reach the maximum size listed for each particular car seat model, at which time they can be upgraded to a front-facing device. 

No matter what type of car seat is used, it needs to be installed properly. Always use a five-point harness to restrain a child and make sure the straps lay flat without any twisting. The seat itself also needs to be tightly connected to a car, with little room for movement – no device should be able to be moved more than 1 inch in any direction. 

"Proper use of car and booster seats have been proven to save lives and reduce the number of injuries in car crashes," said Mark R. Desrochers, an insurance group president. "But child restraint systems are used incorrectly, and in many cases are misused in a way that could actually increase a child's risk of injury or death during a crash. We believe that proactive education on proper usage of car seats for children will help save lives and reduce injuries." 

Once parents have mastered the use of a car seat, they may want to turn their attention toward making sure the vehicle they are driving has all of the safety features they need. If a car is not up to snuff, it could be time to start looking for a used car at a reputable location such as NJ State Auto Auction. The lot contains hundreds of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, many of which have child-friendly amenities and impressive safety features.