This is a money-saving technique that a lot of new car buyers don't seem to be aware of: you can order a car through a local Dealer, as opposed to buying one on the lot, and save a lot of money.
Now, you can only do this on new cars, not used. But you can order the exact car you want ... the color you want, the specific options you want, and so forth ... right from the manufacturer. And you can negotiate a tremendous deal for it right at a Dealership.
You're going to have to be patient though because you'll likely wait one to three months for your vehicle to arrive. And you'll probably get a lot of resistance at first from the Dealer because it's in their best financial interest to sell you one "right now" from their inventory. And the salesperson wants their commission right now too.
But if you can put up with a bit of waiting time and resist some initial pressure from the Dealer to change your mind about buying now, you'll likely save a bundle.
You see, vehicles on a Dealer lot have costs. There's lot fees, insurance costs, interest, the vehicle's share of the advertising expenses, and more. But by ordering a vehicle, the Dealer doesn't have these costs and, in effect, really just becomes a middleman for the transaction by doing the paperwork.
Because of this, you can negotiate the price down to invoice, and usually below. Some of your discount will come from the Dealer's holdback (what the manufacturer pays them in addition to their own markup). Once they've accepted the fact that they've lost you as a "right now" customer, they'll usually do the deal for somewhere in the $500 range in profit. So, negotiate like crazy.
And of course, you'll be ordering just what you want ... and paying only for just what you want. Why pay for satellite radio if you don't use it? Why pay for heated seats in Florida? Why accept a car, which is a big financial commitment, if it's not the exact color you'd prefer.
The only drawback is that it takes time, so you'll need to plan ahead to take advantage of these savings.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Car Alarms Systems Explained
Car owners are concerned with protecting their vehicles and everyone in it from theft and injury and purchasing a car alarm system is an important preventive measure that is easy to take. There are many different types of car alarms on the market in every price range to fit every budget. The question for most people who are purchasing their first car alarm is which one is best for them? With all the choices available to every car owner is easy to become overwhelmed and confused. Understanding the basics of how alarm system to work that will make it easier for you to decide which one you want to purchase.
The basic car alarm package will include a control module or controller; this is a brain of the alarm. This package will also include sensors which are the devices that send the signal is to the controller when someone tries to force open the doors of the vehicle. These sensors are attached to the siren which generates the sound that alerts you of an unauthorized entry into your automobile.
The next level of car alarm systems extend this protection to the trunk and the hood of your vehicle; plus they will include glass break, impact, pressure or motion sensors, starter interrupt circuits, remote start modules and the input for remote functions such as trunk releases and window operations.
Into more sophisticated alarm systems the controller or brain of the system is a small computer whose job is to close all switches that activate the alarm devices; your headlights, horn more of the alarm siren when certain power sensing devices are opened or closed. The main differences between most car alarm systems can be found in the sensors that are used and how the various devices are connected to the computer or the controller of alarm system.
In most alarm systems the controller or brain of the alarm system and its features are usually wired to the car’s main battery and they may have auxiliary or backup power sources as well, which is activated if the main power source is disrupted or instance if the battery cables are cut. When the event occurs the sensors will be triggered and the brain or comptroller will sound an alarm.
Most experts agree that you cannot eliminate car thieves, but car alarm systems can make it more difficult for them to succeed. Car alarms are not infallible and criminals are becoming more creative every day, but having an alarm system installed in your vehicle can protect you in most instances.
From a security standpoint a basic alarm system can be an effective deterrent against a car thief. However the system must be installed properly for it to be truly effective. Also installation of a alarm system can very and difficulty it does require a certain amount of tools and expertise as well as time and patience. Read through the owners’ manual of the car alarm to determine if you have all of the required elements to complete the installation. If you do not have the proper equipment at the time you purchase the alarm system it would be better to hire a professional and have your vehicle protected as quickly as possible.
The basic car alarm package will include a control module or controller; this is a brain of the alarm. This package will also include sensors which are the devices that send the signal is to the controller when someone tries to force open the doors of the vehicle. These sensors are attached to the siren which generates the sound that alerts you of an unauthorized entry into your automobile.
The next level of car alarm systems extend this protection to the trunk and the hood of your vehicle; plus they will include glass break, impact, pressure or motion sensors, starter interrupt circuits, remote start modules and the input for remote functions such as trunk releases and window operations.
Into more sophisticated alarm systems the controller or brain of the system is a small computer whose job is to close all switches that activate the alarm devices; your headlights, horn more of the alarm siren when certain power sensing devices are opened or closed. The main differences between most car alarm systems can be found in the sensors that are used and how the various devices are connected to the computer or the controller of alarm system.
In most alarm systems the controller or brain of the alarm system and its features are usually wired to the car’s main battery and they may have auxiliary or backup power sources as well, which is activated if the main power source is disrupted or instance if the battery cables are cut. When the event occurs the sensors will be triggered and the brain or comptroller will sound an alarm.
Most experts agree that you cannot eliminate car thieves, but car alarm systems can make it more difficult for them to succeed. Car alarms are not infallible and criminals are becoming more creative every day, but having an alarm system installed in your vehicle can protect you in most instances.
From a security standpoint a basic alarm system can be an effective deterrent against a car thief. However the system must be installed properly for it to be truly effective. Also installation of a alarm system can very and difficulty it does require a certain amount of tools and expertise as well as time and patience. Read through the owners’ manual of the car alarm to determine if you have all of the required elements to complete the installation. If you do not have the proper equipment at the time you purchase the alarm system it would be better to hire a professional and have your vehicle protected as quickly as possible.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Buying a Car? What is an AS IS Statement? Can You Differentiate Between Implied and Express Warranty
A large number of consumers are unaware of certain rights, however, are also unaware that they may be dismissing those rights by signing statements at the closing of a car deal. As a car buyer you are eligible for implied and express warranties, it also also worth mentioning that you can also forgo your rights by signing an AS IS statement.
I will start by the most dangerous out of all three. AS IS, this is a disclosure on the Buyers Guide, and between the numerous papers you sign at closing. By signing such a statement, you are about to face some hard time getting the salesperson, or the dealership to honor the words they used to convenes you into buying the car. What is an implied warranty, you may be wondering. Well, it pertains to certain laws that the state passes, this is to hold the dealers responsible for meeting certain qualities on cars they sell. The obligation is referred to as an implied warranty. It is non spoken, nor written warranty. It is there for the mere fact that the dealer sold the car in the state.
On the other hand, there is an express warranty. This applies in three different situations, the first is pertaining to an oral or written description of the the car, an affirmation of facts about the car, or even a promise at the time of the sale. The second situation covered by the express warranty applies to the sellers written promises to repair and or replace defective parts for a certain period of time. The final application of express warranty is to the written promises that represents the car, and the existing problems, and a promise to repair or replace otherwise.
You are probably thinking about a previous promise that was not honored. Well, it is very possible, unless you live in an forbidding AS IS statement state (Connecticut,District of Columbia, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia). Dealers use statements such as "as is" or "with all faults" in a written notice, this eliminates implied warranties.
I will start by the most dangerous out of all three. AS IS, this is a disclosure on the Buyers Guide, and between the numerous papers you sign at closing. By signing such a statement, you are about to face some hard time getting the salesperson, or the dealership to honor the words they used to convenes you into buying the car. What is an implied warranty, you may be wondering. Well, it pertains to certain laws that the state passes, this is to hold the dealers responsible for meeting certain qualities on cars they sell. The obligation is referred to as an implied warranty. It is non spoken, nor written warranty. It is there for the mere fact that the dealer sold the car in the state.
On the other hand, there is an express warranty. This applies in three different situations, the first is pertaining to an oral or written description of the the car, an affirmation of facts about the car, or even a promise at the time of the sale. The second situation covered by the express warranty applies to the sellers written promises to repair and or replace defective parts for a certain period of time. The final application of express warranty is to the written promises that represents the car, and the existing problems, and a promise to repair or replace otherwise.
You are probably thinking about a previous promise that was not honored. Well, it is very possible, unless you live in an forbidding AS IS statement state (Connecticut,District of Columbia, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and West Virginia). Dealers use statements such as "as is" or "with all faults" in a written notice, this eliminates implied warranties.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
What Does The Jargon At Dealerships Mean?
Unless you are someone directly involved with the car industry, or an acronym wizard, then you are to be confused when you hear all the different acronym-ed jargon words at the car dealerships. Statements such as Invoice price, base price, furthermore, acronyms such as MSPR, ADP, and ADM. It came to my attention that such an article is important to familiarize you with the terms and acronyms.
Understanding the brief explanation of each term would better prepare you for your next visit to the dealership. It will also allow you to keep the overcharges in your bank account, rather than depositing it into the dealerships bank account.
If you are on your way to the dealership, you are about to encounter the term Invoice Price numerous times. Invoice price is the price the manufacturer charges the dealerships for a given car. Hence, this is usually higher than the price the dealership actually paid for the car or truck. The manufacturers is no different from the dealerships, it runs special promotions and offers such as different rebates, allowances, discounts and incentive awards. The invoice price also includes the shipping or delivery charges. In other words, never pay for transportation at the dealerships, because it is pure overcharge.
Another term that you are to encounter is Base Price. This is the advertised price for a car equipped with standard factory equipment and warranty. In other words, this price is before any any of the additional options “good stuff” are added to the car. Bare in mind, that it is a federal law to provide consumers with this price. As a matter of fact, it should be on the Monroney sticker, or buyers guide.
There is also MRSP (Monroney Sticker Price.) This should shaw the base price, the options installed on this particular car inventory, with the suggested retail price. Remember, this includes the transportation charge. Last but not least, ADP (additional dealer profit)and ADM (additional dealer markup). Not much to be said about those, but this is where your bargaining should be targeted towards.
Understanding the brief explanation of each term would better prepare you for your next visit to the dealership. It will also allow you to keep the overcharges in your bank account, rather than depositing it into the dealerships bank account.
If you are on your way to the dealership, you are about to encounter the term Invoice Price numerous times. Invoice price is the price the manufacturer charges the dealerships for a given car. Hence, this is usually higher than the price the dealership actually paid for the car or truck. The manufacturers is no different from the dealerships, it runs special promotions and offers such as different rebates, allowances, discounts and incentive awards. The invoice price also includes the shipping or delivery charges. In other words, never pay for transportation at the dealerships, because it is pure overcharge.
Another term that you are to encounter is Base Price. This is the advertised price for a car equipped with standard factory equipment and warranty. In other words, this price is before any any of the additional options “good stuff” are added to the car. Bare in mind, that it is a federal law to provide consumers with this price. As a matter of fact, it should be on the Monroney sticker, or buyers guide.
There is also MRSP (Monroney Sticker Price.) This should shaw the base price, the options installed on this particular car inventory, with the suggested retail price. Remember, this includes the transportation charge. Last but not least, ADP (additional dealer profit)and ADM (additional dealer markup). Not much to be said about those, but this is where your bargaining should be targeted towards.
Monday, July 30, 2007
F1 Greatest Drivers
Its hard to decide who was the F1 greatest drivers because the era of their dominance doesn't coincide with all the other F1 greats. However we can say that F1 greats have to prove themselves to earn that title. Whether getting the most win of his career, poles, wet weather prowes or just transcending the limits of your car. These are the traits and characteristic that F1 greats should possess. So who are the greats? Well these drivers were certainly the best drivers when they were racing:
Michael Schumacher: He owns all the records in the book and by far the favourite of the new generation of formula one drivers. His F1 career started with Jordan team which was a backmarker. Nevertheless he quickly moved to Benneton and started to rack up some podium finishes and victories.
In 1993 he proved to the critics that he is well match for Ayrton Senna in some races, and ended up third in the drivers title in the end of the season. The following season he won the championship albeit with a controversy, (Schumacher ramming Hill's Williams) then 1995 he dominated completely with the Renault supplying the engines for Benneton. Despite his 2 world titles, he decided that he wants try this taste of success with another team. So he quickly moved to Ferrari which at the time was in doldrums; moreover, It took 4 years of wait to get another world championship. Finally in 2000 - 2004 he and his Ferrari team decimated the competition. Schumachers success came from his own motivation, intelligence, work ethic, dedication and determination. These qualities propelled him to win races more than any F1 drivers in the history.
Juan Manuel Fangio: Highly regarded as the maestro, a truly fitting name for a man with such a great talent. Unlike the new generation of Formula 1 cars these days that have traction control, launch control, carbon fiber monocoque and ground shattering down force. In the olden days it was extremely difficult and dangerous to race because Formula 1 cars were not safe at all and it drives like a truck. Fangio was at his best when he was at his forties, defying his aging body and just racing to the fullest is something worth applauding. The most memorable race was at Nurburgring in 1957 in his Maserati. His mechanics ruined his pit stop, and he was a full minute behind the leaders when he emerged from the pits. Victory looked slim but his subsequently fast lap times utterly demolish the gap and by the time he finished, he was ahead of the race leader. This epic victory is just a exemplification of his talent and bravery. This race led him to attain his fifth and final title which was a spectacular way to end a illustrious career.
Alain Prost: Prost nicknamed, " the professor" because of his way of driving. On normal circumstances he will drive conservatively and rather carefully. Yet, his style of driving didn't diminish his greatness, moreover, he was also fast in race day. Only Prost's genuine pace and mind power can match the menacing Senna. Prost won world championship titles in 1985 and 1986, 1989, 1993 but these titles didn't come to him by luck. He had to fight the best racing drivers at the time. Drivers such as: Niki Lauda, Keke Rosberg, Nelson Piquet, Nigel Mansell, and Senna whom he had the most feud with. Only Schumacher and Fangio won more titles than Prost yet, this does not justify the fact that he is not as good as Schumacher. Because Prost always had someone capable of depriving him for the world title.
Ayrton Senna: Some say that he is the greatest driver of all time, but that's just an opinion. Senna was bestowed with an incredible amount of talent and charisma. Even in his first season in Formula 1 he was already proving to be more competitive than any of the backmarkers. For instance in 1984 driving for Toleman in Monaco Grand Prix, it was a nightmare for most of the drivers because of the torrential downpour. The rain didnt affect Senna at all, this actual gave him a chance to prove even in a inferior car, he can score points. The next season with Lotus, he proved that he was the talent worth to be reckoned. Having poles in most occasion and in some races, winning it. He was arguably the fastest man in one lap stint. He had such an incredible amount of precision coupled with an astounding speed and control. The prodigy drives the car as if it was his own body connected to the car itself. His one lap supremacy was vindicated when he amassed an 65 pole position in 162 Grand Prix. He also was the supreme master of wet weather racing. He won many races in the raining condition; furtheremore, the most notable display of his wet weather driving prowess was in 1993 European GP at Donnington. He could only muster 5th place on the grid due to his cars limitations. The Williams and the Bennetons had more horsepower than Senna's Mclaren. Depites this defiency, he defied the cars limitation and transcended its cababilities. He won that race with grace and undeniably the greatest drive of his career.
Michael Schumacher: He owns all the records in the book and by far the favourite of the new generation of formula one drivers. His F1 career started with Jordan team which was a backmarker. Nevertheless he quickly moved to Benneton and started to rack up some podium finishes and victories.
In 1993 he proved to the critics that he is well match for Ayrton Senna in some races, and ended up third in the drivers title in the end of the season. The following season he won the championship albeit with a controversy, (Schumacher ramming Hill's Williams) then 1995 he dominated completely with the Renault supplying the engines for Benneton. Despite his 2 world titles, he decided that he wants try this taste of success with another team. So he quickly moved to Ferrari which at the time was in doldrums; moreover, It took 4 years of wait to get another world championship. Finally in 2000 - 2004 he and his Ferrari team decimated the competition. Schumachers success came from his own motivation, intelligence, work ethic, dedication and determination. These qualities propelled him to win races more than any F1 drivers in the history.
Juan Manuel Fangio: Highly regarded as the maestro, a truly fitting name for a man with such a great talent. Unlike the new generation of Formula 1 cars these days that have traction control, launch control, carbon fiber monocoque and ground shattering down force. In the olden days it was extremely difficult and dangerous to race because Formula 1 cars were not safe at all and it drives like a truck. Fangio was at his best when he was at his forties, defying his aging body and just racing to the fullest is something worth applauding. The most memorable race was at Nurburgring in 1957 in his Maserati. His mechanics ruined his pit stop, and he was a full minute behind the leaders when he emerged from the pits. Victory looked slim but his subsequently fast lap times utterly demolish the gap and by the time he finished, he was ahead of the race leader. This epic victory is just a exemplification of his talent and bravery. This race led him to attain his fifth and final title which was a spectacular way to end a illustrious career.
Alain Prost: Prost nicknamed, " the professor" because of his way of driving. On normal circumstances he will drive conservatively and rather carefully. Yet, his style of driving didn't diminish his greatness, moreover, he was also fast in race day. Only Prost's genuine pace and mind power can match the menacing Senna. Prost won world championship titles in 1985 and 1986, 1989, 1993 but these titles didn't come to him by luck. He had to fight the best racing drivers at the time. Drivers such as: Niki Lauda, Keke Rosberg, Nelson Piquet, Nigel Mansell, and Senna whom he had the most feud with. Only Schumacher and Fangio won more titles than Prost yet, this does not justify the fact that he is not as good as Schumacher. Because Prost always had someone capable of depriving him for the world title.
Ayrton Senna: Some say that he is the greatest driver of all time, but that's just an opinion. Senna was bestowed with an incredible amount of talent and charisma. Even in his first season in Formula 1 he was already proving to be more competitive than any of the backmarkers. For instance in 1984 driving for Toleman in Monaco Grand Prix, it was a nightmare for most of the drivers because of the torrential downpour. The rain didnt affect Senna at all, this actual gave him a chance to prove even in a inferior car, he can score points. The next season with Lotus, he proved that he was the talent worth to be reckoned. Having poles in most occasion and in some races, winning it. He was arguably the fastest man in one lap stint. He had such an incredible amount of precision coupled with an astounding speed and control. The prodigy drives the car as if it was his own body connected to the car itself. His one lap supremacy was vindicated when he amassed an 65 pole position in 162 Grand Prix. He also was the supreme master of wet weather racing. He won many races in the raining condition; furtheremore, the most notable display of his wet weather driving prowess was in 1993 European GP at Donnington. He could only muster 5th place on the grid due to his cars limitations. The Williams and the Bennetons had more horsepower than Senna's Mclaren. Depites this defiency, he defied the cars limitation and transcended its cababilities. He won that race with grace and undeniably the greatest drive of his career.
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