NJ Used Car Trader » Used Car Tips

The Importance of Keeping up with Used Car Maintenance

patrick — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:32:56 +0000

Whether you buy a new or used car, there is a level of attention you must pay to your car. There are certain things every car is going to need, but used cars in particular require a bit more maintenance. In fact, the US government suggests setting aside about $600 a year to cover the costs of repairs and maintenance.That seems like a hefty price, however if you take care of your used car, that cost can be greatly reduced.

The problem with used cars is that most times all the parts are stock, meaning they are the same parts that were in it the day it left the factory. They are designed to last, however a lack of care for your vehicle will result in those stock parts to deteriorate. Take not changing your oil for example. Over time will cause sludge buildup, wear out your piston rings, bearings, cam, and lifters. Leave it long enough and you will have engine failure.

One suggestion is quickly checking over your car every 3,000 miles, from top to bottom. If you can’t do this yourself, have a mechanic do it for you when you get your oil changed. This simple procedure can save you thousands in the long run. It gives you the opportunity to see any potentially dangerous situations, and keep up with required maintenance. Simply put, take care of your used car, and it will last much longer.

Topics Car, Maintenance, Used

Helpful Tips for Maintaining a Used Car

patrick — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 19:01:41 +0000

After you have purchased a used car, maintaining your vehicle becomes extremely important. Though most used cars have an advantage over new vehicles as far as price, maintaining a used car can be a bit expensive. This is because previously owned cars tend to have more “wear and tear” on their mechanical parts, which raises the probability that some of a used car’s parts may have to be replaced.

To properly maintain your used car, the best preventive measure you can take is to drive smart. Driving excessively fast, or repeatedly using the brakes at high speeds can cause damage to your used car. The engine, brakes, and other parts of your used car can be guaranteed to last longer if you use common sense when you drive. Your car is a valuable tool, and maintaining your used car will help prevent expensive repairs such as engine failure.

Another great preventive maintenance procedure for your used car is to regularly get the oil changed. This may seem like an unnecessary annoyance, but in reality, getting regular oil changes will help prolong the life of your engine. “Old” or overused oil can clog important parts in your used car’s engine, and may also contribute to engine failure. Getting an oil change is relatively inexpensive, usually from $30-$50 depending on the type of oil that your used car requires.

Used car maintenance may seem like a relatively minor part of owning your car, but properly maintaining your used car can help lower your overall expense in owning a used car. Preventive maintenance is especially important, since this can aid in preventing possibly expensive repairs. Remember, your used car needs regular tune-ups, so don’t neglect you used car’s maintenance. If you follow these tips, your used car will run better, with less overall expense.

Topics Maintaining, Oil Change, Repairs, Tips, Tune-up, used car

Maintaining Your Used Car

patrick — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:00:03 +0000

When taking care of a used car, you may encounter many possibly expensive repairs in your car’s lifetime. This is because used cars tend to have been previously driven, which means that their previous owners may have put significant wear and tear on the car’s mechanical parts. Even though this may seem like a huge expense, it can be less of a hassle if you save a bit of money for used car repairs beforehand.

Saving extra money for used car repairs can help lessen the financial burden of an expensive repair. Each month, it’s recommended to set aside approximately $400 for preventive maintenance and repairs on your used car. While this may seem like a lot, it’s actually a good investment. Having extra money set aside for your used car repairs and maintenance can easily be a part of your monthly budget, as long as you follow a few simple tips.

To start saving extra money each month for used car repairs and maintenance, first begin by figuring out your total monthly expenses. This can include bill payments, taxes, car payments, insurance, and any other miscellaneous expenses that you may incur each month. Once you have figured out your expenses in relation to your monthly income, you can set aside a specific amount each week so that you have enough to cover a future repair on your used car.

As long as you follow these simple tips, you should have enough money to cover any possible repairs that you may need performed on your used car. Be smart about your finances, and you will be able to save money each month specifically for used car repairs and maintenance. With approximately $400 set aside on a monthly basis, you should be able to take care of even the most expensive repairs on your used vehicle.

Topics Used Car Maintenance

Used Car Maintenance Tips for NJ

patrick — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:05:20 +0000

When maintaining your used car, it can be very beneficial to bring your car to a garage (or to the dealership, if that is covered in your warranty) for regular tune-ups. Exercising preventive maintenance on your used car is a great way to avoid expensive repairs, and can also help alert you to any possible problems with your used car.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions of the mechanic who services your used car. It pays to be informed, and they may be able to let you know in advance of any possibly expensive used car repairs in the future. Knowing of any possible repairs beforehand will allow you to set aside additional money specifically for repairs on your used car, and will help you to plan ahead. Some mechanics will even offer you a discount if you have these repairs performed at their garage, and may even be able to work with you on a payment plan for these repairs.

Another important part of maintaining your used car is to always get your oil changed every several thousand miles. The recommended mileage between oil changes varies, and it is important to ask your mechanic approximately how much longer you should wait before your next oil change. Getting the oil on your used car changed regularly will help prevent possible damage to your used car’s engine. This may greatly prolong the life of your used car.

Maintaining a used car may seem like an unnecessary annoyance, but in reality, it is a very important part of keeping your used car running. Keeping up to date on your oil changes, getting regular tune-ups, and being informed about your used car’s condition can go a long way towards improving the chances that your used car will not require expensive repairs.

Topics Maintenance, Tips, used car

The Importance of Changing the Oil in a Used Car

patrick — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 22:25:29 +0000

Changing the oil in your used car on a regular basis is very important for maintaining your used car’s engine. Oil helps the engine to run by keeping all of the moving parts properly lubricated. After running for several thousand miles, the oil tends to become contaminated by carbon, debris and other substances that can hinder the effectiveness of the oil. If the oil isn’t able to properly provide lubrication for the engine, serious damage to the engine can occur.

Since replacing the engine in any car, even a used car, can be extremely expensive, it’s easy to see that the relatively low cost of an oil change is a small price to pay for preventing expensive engine repairs. Most oil change services at a professional garage are under $50, even for the premium services. Most of the cost depends on the type and grade of oil that your used car requires, so make sure to choose the best option depending on your used car’s performance.

Your used car’s engine is the most important part to keep your car running, and can also be the most expensive to fix. The preventive maintenance of an oil change can help avoid high engine repair costs, and will also allow your car to achieve maximum horsepower. Be sure to keep track of when your used car needs an oil change, since this is essential for your used car to properly function.

Topics Oil, Oil Change, Tips, used car

Used Car Buying Tips for Union NJ

patrick — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 20:40:26 +0000

With the recent state of the economy, many people in Union, New Jersey are choosing to purchase a used car instead of a new vehicle. There are many advantages to buying a used car, but only if you can choose the used car that is best for you. Choosing to purchase a used car in Union, New Jersey can save you a significant amount of money, but only if you are smart about the price, condition, and location of your used car.

The first, and perhaps the most important decision for some people in Union, New Jersey is getting a used car at an affordable price. However, it’s important to remember that a cheap car isn’t necessarily going to save you money! If a used car is priced to be less expensive, this may be because there is a significant amount of expense involved in future maintenance. Don’t forget to factor in expenses, it’s recommended to have at least $500 per month saved in order to take care of repairs on your used car.

Try to choose a used car that will last you as long as possible. A used car in good condition can also save you money, as you will have to spend less money on car repairs. It’s recommended that you take the used car that you’re looking to purchase for a test-drive, as this can help you to become better accustomed to the used car’s condition.

Choosing a dealership is also extremely important. Try to find an honest dealership with a good reputation. In Union, New Jersey, there are many reliable used car dealerships, which will give you a variety of choices when looking to purchase your used car. Do your research, ask questions, and you will have a much better chance of making a smart used car purchase.

Topics Buying Tips, Union NJ, used car

Maintaining Your Used Cars Fluid Levels – Part 2

patrick — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:43:35 +0000

In our previous article, we talked about maintaining your used cars fluid levels, and showed you how to check you oil, automatic transmission fluid, and brake fluids. Today we are going to expand on that article with even more fluids to keep tabs on.

Your windshield washer fluids are important to keep topped off, and this is something many people get in trouble with, as it does not seem vital to your vehicles ability to run. However it can be extremely dangerous running out while driving, especially with a sudden onslaught of mud, debrises, or ice on your windshield. Unless you live in an abnormal environment, you should only need to check your windshield washer fluid levels once a month, and top it off if necessary. Many new cars now have a light in their dash that will let you know when you are low.

Your radiator or cooling system is important to check occasionally as well. You should check it when your engine is lukewarm. Not hot, but not cold either. NEVER check your radiator when your used car is running.

Warning: The radiators fluids are pressurized, and if they are too hot when you open it, they can scald you causing severe burns.

After you find the cap, using a rag, open it up. Look directly down the radiator and make sure you can see fluid. If it is not near the top, you are going to need to add some. Check your manual for the particular details, but coolant is generally added 50% water and 50% coolant. While you are in there, check your coolant resevoir as well, which is a plastic container right next to the radiator. Look for a hose connecting the two to be sure. You are going to want to keep this filled two-thirds of the way.

Tomorrow we will conclude with part three of maintaining your used cars fluid levels.

Topics Cooling System, Radiator, used car, Windshield Washer Fluid

Maintaining Your Used Cars Fluid Levels

patrick — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:00:47 +0000

Maintaining a used cars fluid levels is a vital part of keeping you vehicle in a healthy state. Unfortunately it can be something people miss, and that is mostly due to a lack of knowledge on the subject. These next few articles plan to help you out on the subject.

Your oil should be checked every three-four times you fill up you gas tank. First drive your used car for a couple miles, then park it and let it sit a couple minutes. Simply locate your dipstick, pull it out, wipe it off, push it back in, and pull it out again. Your oil should be in between the two harsh lines. If you some reason it is below, you need to add a quart, then check it again. If it looks dark, it is time for an oil change.

Your automatic transmission fluid should be checked upon occasion as well. It is usually located behind your oil dipstick, although it may be further down in your engine. The only difference is, you need to check it while the engine is running. Pull it out, wipe it clean, put it back in, and pull it out again. Unless there is a leak, it should never need topped off. Instead what you are checking for is it’s color. The darker it gets, the closer you are to having to get it changed.

Your brake fluids should also be checked occasionally. Locate your brake fluid reservoir, and pop it open while the engine is off. It should be up to the full line, which is about 2/3 of the way full. If it’s not top it off, then check it again in a couple days. Is it down again? Take it to your mechanic. A faulty brake system is nothing to play around with.

These are just a few of the fluids to check. This article is continued in Part Two.

Topics Brake Fluid, Fluids, Oil, Transmission Fluid, used car

Taking Care of a High-Mileage Used Car

patrick — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 21:51:43 +0000

In today’s economy, it is no secret consumers are sticking with older cars on the road. In fact, roughly 68% of vehicles on the road have 75,000 miles or more on them. Unfortunately, many consumers ignore the special care high-mileage vehicles demand.

Perhaps the most simplest, but most important thing you can do is get your oil changed frequently. On a car with over 100,000 miles on it, it is recommended every 3 months, or 3,000 miles.

Check your tire pressure on a monthly basis, this is the easiest way to prevent flats, and only takes a minute.
Pay attention to warning signs your car may be giving you. Are there fluids on the ground when you pull out of your driveway? Do your vents smell funny? Hear any strange noises? If so, take it into your mechanic for a checkup. Which brings us to our next point…
Find a good mechanic and stick with them. Try to find one that is ASE-certified. Bouncing around mechanics increases the likelihood of you being overcharged. A repeat customer is much more likely to get “taken care of”.
Take your car in for a tune-up annually. Tune ups are generally cheap (just over $100), and your mechanic will change any minor parts that need it. This includes spark plugs, spark plug wires, air filters, fuel injector checks, brake lines, belts and more.
Prepare your used car for the seasons, especially in locations of drastic temperature changes. For example, in the hot summer you should run thicker oil than in the freezing winter. If snow is a regular occurrence, consider investing in snow tires in the winter. Not only does it give you better traction, but it also puts less stress on your engine, resulting in less wear and tear.

Topics High-Mileage, Maintenance, used car

Maintaining a Used Cars Braking System

patrick — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 20:00:40 +0000

Many people take for granted all the small little systems inside a used car that keep it running. The braking system, for example, is one of the most important parts of a vehicle. Obviously without it, you would not be able to stop, leading to potentially catastrophic damage or worse. Let’s discuss maintaining your braking system, and what you should do to prevent failures.

To properly care for your braking system, it will be beneficial to understand how exactly it works. When you press down on your cars brake pedal, you are telling your car to press the brake pads up against your rotors. Your rotors, or more commonly referred to as brake discs, are a part of your wheel hub. The pressure of the brake pad against the rotor causes your wheel to slow, or stop completely, based on how much pressure you apply to your brake pedal. Sometimes on older vehicles you will find a drum brake, however the principles are still the same.

Eventually, there will be enough wear and tear to both your brake pads and rotors to warrant a replacement. Your brake pads will always need replaced before your rotors, and it is important you do so. If you allow your brake pads to go to long without being replaced, they will begin to fig groves into your rotors every time you apply the brakes. As you can imagine, this will cause your rotors to not function optimally, and they will need to be replaced, or at a minimum resurfaced. Driving in extreme braking conditions can also result in a need to replace your brake rotors. When you are constantly applying your brakes (think braking down a mountain), your rotors are constantly heating and cooling. This can cause a warping, rendering your rotors unsafe to use.

In theory, you should never need to replace your brake rotors. However there are many things that can happen that will require your used car to need a new rotor, such as the two examples mentioned above. If your brakes are not feeling quite right, go ahead and take them in to your local mechanic. Fortunately brakes are cheap, and not having them working at 100% could be hazardous.

Topics Brakes, Maintenance, used car