Why are the prices of used cars going up?
Experts say that used-car prices are rising faster than new-car prices currently, but that the spike is a double-edged sword. Dealers are trying to snap up as many used cars as they can to satisfy customer demand, and that means you can get top dollar if you’re looking to sell or trade in.
What do you need to know when going to the auto shop?
Be sure to leave phone numbers with the shop where you can be reached and respond promptly. If the technician isn’t able to contact you to approve a repair, the car will sit and remain unattended for that much longer. Likewise, you’ll want to know that the car is ready and how much the service will cost before heading back to the shop.
Is the used car market going to calm down?
That, in turn, will increase demand for used cars. The market will calm down eventually, but it may take some time. So if you want to buy now, do your research on current pricing and deals, and be open to considering several models to increase your chance of scoring significant savings.
What’s the best way to save money on car care?
The car-care experts at AAA Motor Club in Heathrow, Fla. believe the best way to save money over the life of a vehicle is to choose a high-quality, full-service repair shop (or dealer’s service department) and allow them do all of the necessary maintenance and repair work.
What happens if you store a car in a garage?
If you just let your vehicle sit on the street or in a garage for an extended period, you may return to a dead battery or — worse yet — a damaged engine, ruined tires and a rat’s nest under your hood. Here are essential steps to take before you store a vehicle.
What should I do if my car is stored for a long time?
If the car is being stored for an extended period of time, measured in years, talk to a mechanic about using oils without additives, which may include slightly caustic detergents. Fill the fuel tank with fresh, premium fuel.
What happens if you leave your car parked for too long?
If a vehicle is left stationary for too long, the tires could develop flat spots as the weight of the vehicle presses down on the tires’ footprints. This process occurs at a faster rate in colder temperatures and in vehicles equipped with performance tires or low-profile tires.
How long should a car be jacked up for?
“Extended” in this case depends on the type of tires; bias-ply tires need to be jacked up sooner than radials, and high-profile sooner than low-profile. A “classic” car with fat bias-ply tires should be jacked up if stored for more than a month, a modern sports car with low-profile radials should be fine for a winter.