You may not know this, but not all used cars are created equal. When shopping for your next ride, there are important considerations you should keep in mind to avoid having to make lemonade from an undesirable lemon. One of the most important things to follow when you're on the market is this: certified above all else. Like houses, appliances and even some professionals, certification carries with it a mark of quality that can be looked to as a guiding light when making purchasing decisions, and if you're looking to buy, it's worth your time and money to gain a better understanding of what that means exactly.

Understanding certified used cars
The first question you may have is, what exactly is a certified used car and how does it differ from the standard garden variety? According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, certified used cars are those that have undergone a thorough inspection and are backed by an extended manufacturer's warranty. Another important feature of certified cars is that, in general, a manufacturer won't certify a car that's older than five years, or one that has been in a serious accident or had extensive work done to it. This can serve as built-in peace of mind for many people wary of buying a used car.

Considering Carfax
Not all used car certifications come directly from the manufacturer. In recent years, third-party car verification services, the most popular of which is Carfax, have arisen to offer added assistance and guidance for car shoppers. Carfax is an extremely valuable service, as it can provide you with a vehicle history report outlining previous transactions and, most importantly, repair history. Accidents and repair problems are listed in the Carfax report, offering a useful snapshot of the condition of a used car. 

Such a service can be useful not just in assessing cars, but dealers as well. A high number of Carfax-certified vehicles can serve as the mark of a reputable dealer for those not in the know, which is an invaluable guidepost for those who are not experienced in navigating the often-confusing used car market.

For a wide selection of Carfax-certified cars, head to NJ State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of high-quality used cars on the lot, and an in-house finance team dedicated to helping you afford the used car, truck or van of your dreams.

It's an inevitable fact of life that all good things must come to an end, and your relationship with your car is no different. Whether due to age, maintenance, cost or an infinite host of other factors, eventually it's time for you and your car to part ways. Of course, you're going to want to do everything you can to make sure that you get the most out of your car when it comes time to see it off, either by trading it in or opting to sell it yourself. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

What can you sell?
There are lots of theories on when it's OK to sell a used car and when it isn't. Depending on whom you ask, you'll get different age and mileage limits that may differ wildly. Edmunds breaks out the general lifecycle of most cars into a few mileage-based landmarks, and while not a golden rule, such information can help you get a sense of what you may be in for when it's time to sell. For example, selling at or around 30,000 miles is preferable, as most cars will still be covered by a manufacturer's warranty and will likely have yet to see their first major service visit. Even at 100,000 miles, which Edmunds bills as the third landmark in a car's life, your car may still be in great shape, though you may have some extra work to do to fight the old perception that a well-traveled a car isn't worth buying.

Getting it ready
Once you've established that you're going to sell your car, it's time to take a couple steps to help your cause. If you're listing the car yourself, you'll definitely want to take pictures that are flattering to your vehicle, but also honest. Edmunds recommends photographing your car during what is called the golden hour – the time just before the sun rises or sets – to create a warm backdrop and really bring out your car's colors.

You'll also need to have some sort of idea what your car is worth, especially if you're planning on selling it yourself. This can be like trying to hit a moving target, but fortunately there are tools that can help. Kelley Blue Book provides an excellent online resource for estimating the value of a used car based on year, make, model, mileage, features and more.

Whether you're looking to trade in for another vehicle or just offload your current one, head to NJ State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and an in-house finance team ready to help you get approved for a loan.

One of the biggest ways motorists try and cut back on car spending is to make the most of their gas mileage. Those trips to the pump can really add up, especially with fuel prices on the rise in recent years. Fortunately, you don't have to have a hybrid or an electric car to stretch your ride's gas usage. In fact, there are a few tips you can look to that can end up saving you in the long run when it comes to your gas budget.

Slow it down, speed racer
We all find ourselves in a hurry sometimes, rushing to get to the doctor's office or to work or to soccer practice on time. Many drivers may try and compensate by making up the lost time on their speedometer. But not only is edging over the speed limit in the name of haste unsafe, it's also taking money right out of your gas tank. According to Edmunds, drivers can expect that on average, every 5 mph they go over 60 mpg is adding around 31 cents to the cost of every gallon they pump. In contrast, keeping your speed under control can save you anywhere from 25 to 89 cents per gallon. These amounts may not seem like much on their own, but considering how many miles your car covers on a single tank of gas, it can add up very quickly. 

Ease up, lead-foot
Not only does driving fast take a toll on your fuel economy, but so does driving erratically. Drivers who are anxious, stressed, angry or even just running late tend to accelerate quickly only to end up having to slam on the brakes after a few short feet, and this behavior can really eat into your gas tank. Especially if you find yourself on the highway more often than not, this type of driving can reduce your fuel efficiency by up to a full 33 percent, meaning you'll find yourself heading back to the pump that much more often and, ultimately, spending that much more money. 

If you're looking for a used car, consider heading to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and an in-house finance team dedicated to helping you make sure you can afford the used car, truck or van that's right for you.

Once people set their heart on a car they want to buy, the last thing they want to think about is more paperwork, especially if it can lead to more money being spent. However, while warranties may seem like "yet another expense" when you sign your contract, they're an essential part of saving yourself some serious cash down the road. Before you drive off the lot, make sure you understand some warranty basics so you can shop prepared.

The warranty decision
Perhaps the first and most basic question to ask when considering warranties is, simply, if you need one at all. While in general a good idea, there are a few considerations that should receive special attention before making your decision. Warranties may add expense, but they also offer peace of mind, and with a huge investment like a car that may more than justify the cost. Edmunds suggested considering your own repair history with cars; if you tend to be a hard driver or find yourself in shops often, a warranty may be a no-brainer. 

Something else to consider is which type of coverage you need. A basic warranty will cover different things than a powertrain warranty, for example. Research can help you here; knowing what your car model's most common maintenance pitfalls are can help you decide which warranty coverage you'll need and what you can save money on.

Avoid the void
Once you've made the decision to purchase a warranty for your car, you'll need to make sure that you don't do anything that could inadvertently void your warranty, rendering it useless and you that much poorer. As a general rule, tinkering with your car in any way that is not related to direct maintenance is a giant no-no. According to Edmunds, fiddling with the odometer to change the displayed mileage or adding in after-market modifications are actions that can end a warranty. In a similar vein, any misuse of your car – the most popular one being street racing – is grounds to nix your coverage.

Another thing to be mindful of is keeping up with your car's scheduled maintenance. In many cases, repairs that could have been prevented through regular maintenance fall outside the realm of your warranty's coverage, so spend a bit more today to get your oil changed and save a lot later on costly engine repairs.

If your car needs repairs, make an appointment with the NJ State Auto Auction Total Car Care Center. The knowledgeable team of mechanics on hand will work to keep your vehicle running smoothly. 

The famous test drive is many motorists' favorite part of the car-buying process. After spending several hours or possibly even days trying to find and negotiate the perfect car, finally settling in behind the wheel of one that's caught your eye can be a great feeling. But test drives are about more than just taking a victory lap. There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind before signing on the dotted line to make sure you make the most of your test drive.

Don't forget the little things
It may not be as exciting as listening to the engine purr the first time you step on the accelerator, but taking time to do a quick visual inspection before you get into the car and again before you turn the ignition is just as important. Bankrate.com suggested a series of things to inspect on the car's exterior, such as seeing that the tires have sufficient tread and checking to see if there are any fluid leaks. It's important that your potential car is as comfortable as it is convenient, so make sure you check all the doors and windows, and pop the trunk a few times just to confirm everything works well.

Once you get inside, Edmunds suggested taking time to check the car fits you well. You'll be spending a lot of time behind the wheel, so time spent verifying you've got ample headroom and legroom, and making sure the seat and steering wheel adjust to your liking is time well spent.

Curb your expectations
Test driving is an important part of the car-buying process, but it's important to note that it does come with restrictions. According to Car and Driver, the rules of which cars can be tested and by whom vary from lot to lot. Some dealerships restrict the time or distance you can take a car, or require a salesperson to ride along or drive with you. Typically, the more obvious you make it that you're an honest, serious buyer, the more likely it will be that you'll find yourself in the driver's seat going for a test spin.

When the time comes for you to buy a car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars on the lot, and an in-house finance department ready to help you afford the used car, truck or van that's right for you.

Car insurance is regarded by many drivers as something of a necessary evil. Even mention of the word can conjure in some feelings of dread regarding expensive premiums and complicated paperwork. Especially for newer drivers, the process of shopping for, let alone understanding, insurance policies can be daunting. Fortunately, understanding your insurance doesn't have to require planetary alignment and a blood sacrifice. There are a few things you can keep in mind to help you manage costs, or at least understand them.

Who you are is important
When it comes to car insurance, no two applicants are the same. What you end up paying for your monthly premium depends on a whole host of factors, ranging from how old you are to what kind of car you drive. According to Edmunds, drivers looking to shave down their insurance bill as much as possible should start with the car they drive. In general, the more expensive and new your car is, the more it costs to insure, though there are other factors at play. Things such as your car's reliability record, safety rating and even how likely people are to steal it can all affect the final number.

You'll also find yourself under the microscope when shopping for policies. If you tend to drive less frequently, more safely and have fewer traffic citations on your record, you'll find yourself in general paying less than others who may have a more checkered driving history.

You have options
Developing technology has brought with it alternative insurance options for the frugal driver. Policies known as use-based insurance operate by monitoring things such as how far you drive and how quickly, which is tracked through inputs connected to your dashboard and linked to your smartphone via an app. Using this data, insurance companies can assess what kind of driver you are based on how and how much you drive, rather than charging a flat rate. 

This model is currently in the minority, with only around 2 percent of on-road vehicles currently being covered this way. However, use-based insurance is quickly catching on. In fact, Edmunds estimated that over the course of the next five years, roughly 20 percent of active policies will be use-based. 

If you're shopping for a used car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and a knowledgeable in-house finance team on hand to help make your chosen used car, truck or van affordable.

Owning a car can be an expensive affair. With things such as monthly car payments, insurance, gas, parking fees and maintenance, if you aren't careful to budget smartly your car can quickly monopolize your wallet. Fortunately, buying a car doesn't have to be an automatic sentence to penny pinching and purse-string tightening. There are a few tips you can keep in mind to alleviate some of the financial burden so you can feel like royalty without having to spend like it too.

Shop for success
Much of your ability to save money later depends on what kind of car you decide to buy now. That's not to say you should buy a cheaper vehicle – in fact, those may even be more unreliable and lead to more money spent in repairs down the road. Be sure to do research into the models you are considering. Reliability, safety and fuel economy may mean you pay a bit more now, but buying smart can save you a ton of cash later on in gas and repairs.

Managing costs
Edmunds recommended not spending more than 20 percent of your gross income on your car, and that includes things like parking and gas expenses as well. To get a better idea of how much of your car budget you can spend on the actual car, you'll want to familiarize yourself with what Edmunds referred to as the True Cost to Own. This is a formula designed to help weed out incidental hidden costs so you can get a clear picture of what you can spend on your wheels.

One such hidden cost is your insurance premium, and Edmunds estimated that this makes up approximately 25 percent of your car budget. To make sure you are paying as little as possible, shop your insurance around before committing to a policy. Keep in mind that cars with higher safety and reliability ratings will also generally give you lower insurance premiums. No matter what car you drive, you can keep your insurance rates down by driving safely and avoiding accidents.

The biggest offender in the incidental cost arena? Gas. Edmunds reported that up to 41 percent of the money you spend on your car will go right into your fuel tank, so make sure you shop for efficiency and drive conservatively to get the most out of your fuel.

When it's time to buy a car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and an in-house finance team that can help you afford the used vehicle that's right for you.

As a car owner, you are likely familiar with the concept of motor oil. Between constant reminders from your mechanic, TV commercials and your mother, the necessity of keeping current with your car’s oil changes has become basically mantra for you. Unfortunately, the only constant in this great universe of ours is change, and that holds true for motor oil as well as anything else. Over the past several years, common lubricant wisdom has been revised to account for new technology both in your engine and your bottle of motor oil, so it couldn’t hurt to brush up on the basics of what you need to know.

Change is good – but how often?
Ask anyone on the street how often you should change your oil and you’ll undoubtedly get the same response: every 3,000 miles. This common piece of garage-floor wisdom has been passed through the generations. However, in recent years the paradigm has shifted somewhat. According to Edmunds, the 3,000-mile rule has become obsolete thanks to advances in engine and motor oil technology. While it differs model to model, most cars don’t only need their oil changed every 7,500-10,000 miles, though Edmunds does recommend checking your owner’s manual to be sure. You’ll also want to keep track of what kind of driving you do, as stop-and-go driving can have a different effect on your engine than highway cruising.

What’s in a name?
While motor oil has traditionally been thought of as a one-size-fits-all affair, recent years have seen this change as well. Certain manufacturers have started brewing up their own proprietary blend of motor oil that their models will require. What does this mean for you as a driver? Manufacturer-specific oil may lead to increased maintenance costs when it does come time to change your oil, as well as potential warranty concerns should you use an unapproved motor oil instead. Fortunately, not all automakers have adopted this policy, so it could pay to do the extra research when it comes time to look for a car to see what you can expect when it comes time to check the dipstick.

Keeping your car’s oil changed is an essential part of maintenance. For help with your oil changes and any other maintenance needs, make an appointment with NJ State Auto Auction‘s Total Car Care Center. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to identify any potential issues or simply to keep your car in great working condition.

Few things strike more fear into the hearts of drivers everywhere than the red and blue flashing lights of a police siren beckoning them to the shoulder of the road. Not only is getting pulled over inconvenient and embarrassing, but traffic tickets and moving violations can be expensive. It may seem that the cops have it out for you sometimes, but the fact is there are a few basic things you can do to improve your driving and thus avoid attracting the unwanted attention of the fuzz.

Drive safely
This may seem like an absolute no-brainer, but the fact is it still warrants repeating; if you're driving unsafely, chances are you're going to attract the wrong kind of police attention. One of the biggest offenders in this category is speeding. Everybody's been there. You're late for work, a dance recital, the birth of your child or any number of other events, and we figure that by goosing the gas just a bit more we can shave off some of that travel time. Edmunds reported that according to surveys from various police departments, speeding incidents seem to be on the rise. Unfortunately, driving faster doesn't just decrease the time it takes to reach your destination, it also decreases your reaction time and ability to respond to potential emergency situations. While cops generally allow some minor leeway when it comes to speed limits, you should always aim to follow the posted signs to avoid costly tickets.

Keep your car in order
Even if you're the best driver you know, you can still find yourself on the receiving end of a police stop. Defensive driving and abiding speed limits are essential, but if your car isn't properly maintained that can lead to some costly punitive measures. According to a blogger writing for eSurance, illegally tinted windows, busted tail lights, burnt out headlights and cracked windshields are all among the most common superfluous equipment malfunctions to lead to unwanted traffic tickets. What's more, unlike issues of swerving or potentially dangerous driving, maintenance issues are cut and dried – if your tail light's out, it's a guaranteed stop.

If you're looking to purchase a car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. There are hundreds of top quality Carfax-certified vehicles on the lot, a knowledgeable sales staff, and an in-house finance department all ready to help put you in the used car, truck or van that's right for you.

It can often feel like cars are little more than machines that eat money. Regardless of how long we drive them or the condition we struggle to keep them in, it seems like it's impossible to keep your car's value from plummeting. Fortunately, despite more pessimistic wisdom, there are steps you can take to improve the value of your car. Whether you're looking to trade in your car or you simply take pride in having a cared-for ride, here are some simple tips to influence your car's value in the right direction.

Cleanliness matters
It's not enough for your car to feel good, to get the most out of the value calculation it's got to look good too. Conventional folksy wisdom aside, when it comes to cars, it's not just what's on the inside that counts. In fact, as Kelley Blue Book told MSN Autos, when people are looking to buy a car, looks are one of the chief considerations. Fortunately, keeping up your car's appearance is one of the simplest things you can do, and you don't even have to leave your own driveway. 

In addition to giving your car a thorough wash and wax, make sure to take care of little things you may usually miss: give your headlights a good scrubbing, vacuum the interior, clean the floor mats and polish your hubcaps. Even if your car has some years behind it, keeping it looking like new will go a ways in adding to its value.

The devil is in the details
To go all the way to maximize what your car is worth, there are a host of small tasks you can do. From minor maintenance minutiae to ancillary administrative affairs, you'll want to go over your car with a fine-toothed comb. CNN touted the benefit of taking care of those little peccadilloes you may have let slip, such as changing burnt-out headlights and addressing those pesky dashboard lights that have been glaring at you for months. Similarly, take the opportunity to get all your ownership papers in order, including an ownership history report from somewhere such as Carfax. If potential buyers see that you've got a handle even on the little things, it will reflect well on the overall state of the car.

If you're looking to buy a used car, head into NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, as well as an in-house finance department that can help you to afford the used car, truck or van that's right for you.