An Overview on how to install LED under car lights.

An Overview on How to install Neon & LED Interior car lights.

So you've got your LED or Neon interior car lights, but you're now a bit confused as to where all the car interior neon lights and wires go?" Well fear not, we'll show all the "in's & out's" of this type of installation and the easiest way of doing it.
It's a good idea to disconnect the battery before installing any car light accessories. You can do this by disconnecting the negative battery cable and placing it to one side of the battery where it won't touch any part of the vehicles body. It's also wise to have your vehicles service manual handy for information about the specifics of the electrical system on your vehicle. For interior car lights, the best places to mount the LED or neon tubes are under the dash on both sides just above where your feet go, but high enough so as not to kick the tubes or damage them. There are also many other places you can fit them and their location is only limited by your imagination. To operate the lights manually, your going to need a switch located near you, so you'll need to buy a simple "2way toggle" switch (or use the switch that may have came with your neon/led tube kit) from your nearest custom car accessories store. This switch will be inserted into (in-line with) the main power wire that supplies the kit with 12Volt power. Choose if you want your interior car lights to turn on automatically when the headlights are turned on, or if you want to control the lights separately with a "toggle" switch. If you want the neon or LED tubes to light up automatically when the headlights are turned on, then you will need to find a wire under the dash near the steering column. This wire you are looking for is normally Red or Yellow, and it's supplying the "headlight control switch" with 12V power - you're going to have to "tap" into this wire to light-up your neon lights when the headlights are turned on. If you want to be able to control the interior car lights separately from the headlights, (best option) then there's two ways you can do this... 1) The power wire can be connected directly to the Positive side of the car battery, or... 2) It can be connected to any 12V power wire from under the dashboard.

If you choose to tap into a power wire from behind the dash to power your interior car lights you'll also need to buy a "Circuit Tester" from your nearest custom car accessory store - they only cost about $10 dollars. To use this tester is simple, it looks like a pen with an earth wire hanging out the top of it and a clamp attached to the end of the wire, and it has a globe inside the middle of the pen, or on its end, which lights up when you have found power somewhere. To complete the interior car lighting circuit - you'll now just need to attach the earth wire coming out from the from your led or neon tubes to the chassis of the vehicle. You can do this in the same way as described above for the earth wire on the tester - anywhere where there is bare steel under the dash is always a good earth connection for your interior car lights, even if you find a screw under the dash that is screwed into bare steel and it is holding another wire in place as an earth, you can use this too as an earth location. The control panel earth wire will need to be securely screwed to the chassis of the vehicle or to any "Earth wire" to complete the power circuit. After your "power" & "earth" connections are complete, your car interior neon lights should now work. If they appear dull and not real bright, then be sure to check that you have made GOOD earth and POWER connections. That's it, you're all done - now all you have to do is put any plastic panels back into place that you may have removed, pack your tools up, and then head off to show your friends what a great look you've just created on your car - Enjoy! Please see our "More-In-depth" and step-by-step picture illustrated instructions on How to install LED or Neon interior car lights onto your vehicle.


How to: A Car Stereo Installation Guide


How to: A Car Stereo Installation Guide

Want to save some money? Ever wonder if you could do a car stereo installation yourself? Yes, you can do it yourself! Go ahead, spend that money on your hardware! Don’t spend it on labor. Besides, doing a car stereo installation yourself can be a very rewarding experience, not to mention you can learn a lot from it too. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing your “creation” in action, running smoothly and perfectly.

But be very careful, you really won’t want to damage your expensive hardware. Well, most car audio hardware are no-brainers to install, you’d find that most of the time the parts have specially shaped sockets and slots etc. and would only fit where it’s supposed to be installed. Still, it’s best to proceed methodically.

In a car stereo installation, you have to determine what kind of rig you’re going to put into your vehicle. If you’re a beginner, it’s best you do a car stereo installation if it’s just a simple system. You may want to leave the complicated stuff to the professionals, like installing delicate equipment like LCD panels, motorized parts etc. especially if it requires the creation of custom panels and such.

Head units are one of the easiest to do in a car stereo installation. Fortunately, most units follow the same size standards (DIN). In many cars, once the factory radio is removed the aftermarket radio will fit in the hole. In many other cars, a kit is needed if the factory hole is too big, or not deep enough. In some cases the dash has to be cut. Any car stereo store should have kits required for installation.

There are two types of mounting in a car stereo installation. ISO mounting is when the radio can be screwed to existing factory radio brackets, such as in most Japanese cars. Ring mounting is when an aftermarket radio comes with a metal ring that gets mounted to the factory radio hole or aftermarket kit via bendable tabs. In many cars, dash and trim rings have to be filed to enlarge the radio hole. Once the ring is installed, the radio slides in and is held by snaps. In most cases, special tools are required to remove the radio.

Speakers are very critical in a car stereo installation. No matter how expensive your speakers are, if they are not properly installed, the sound will not be up to par.

In a simple car stereo installation, you’ll probably be using speakers that fit into a factory location. Just make sure there are no gaps or holes. Sometimes building a wood or fiberglass baffle helps reduce holes and gives you much better sound. But always be careful when using power tools around speakers. Car stereo installation warranties usually don't cover holes in speakers.

For unconventional speaker locations, sometimes metal has to be cut. You might want to leave this to the professionals, tools like plasma cutters and pneumatics drills are required. But if you’re going to insist, a pair of metal snips (left and right cut) will do.

A car stereo installation has to put up with vibrations and other noise sources in its environment. Even though it is impossible to eliminate these completely, there are products that will greatly decrease the noise and rattling, particularly on non-luxury cars. Liners, sprays and adhesive strips and even carpeting applied onto the panels can make a world of difference

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What You Need to Know About Nitro RC Cars

What You Need to Know About Nitro RC Cars

Because of the movie "The Fast and the Furious" many people today think that the word "nitro" means having something extra on your car that boosts its speed. Thus, many people who encounter the term "Nitro RC Car" think that it refers to an RC car that's been upgraded.

This thinking could also be due to the fact that many people think that gas powered RC cars actually run on gasoline. This is a very wrong assumption. The term "Nitro RC Car" is actually synonymous with "gas powered RC car" because of the fact that this type of RC car uses a specialized mixture of nitromethane and lubricant to run.

So what do you need to get started with Nitro RC cars?

1) Experience- Before you go ahead and get a Nitro RC car, you need to have sufficient experience with an electric RC car. This is because of the fact that Nitro RC cars can be too much to handle if you are a noob in RC car usage. This is the reason why people who want to get into the hobby of RC cars are advised to get electric RC cars before they move on to Nitro RC cars.

2) Interest- Without the right interest to drive you, why would you get into Nitro RC cars? You need to have some reason in order to truly get something from the hobby of Nitro RC cars. This is because Nitro RC cars will cost you some money and nobody spends money on something that they will not profit from in some way. The "profit" in this case does not refer to financial gain exclusively.

3) Information- You need to know different things before you get started with Nitro RC cars. This is because Nitro RC car racing can be a very complicated business. Having the right information can help you a lot in getting the car that you want and taking care of it. In fact, having the right information about Nitro RC cars can help you profit from the hobby financially.

4) The right materials- Many people wonder exactly what tools and materials you need to get into the Nitro RC car hobby. Here are just some of the things you are going to need:

a) Nitro RC car kit- This pretty much contains everything you are going to need to build yourself a "basic" Nitro RC car. This is a kit containing what you need to build the car itself including the engine, the chassis and the whole enchilada. Beginners are advised to stick to the specifications found in the manual included with Nitro RC car kits. As you progress in the hobby, you may want to divert from the basic look of your car and start customizing your vehicle.

b) Fuel- The nitromethane-castor oil mixture used in powering Nitro RC cars can be found in various hobby shops and stores. Remember: you must never attempt to use gasoline to run your Nitro RC car. The fuel used to run Nitro RC cars is less volatile than gasoline for the reason that the engine may explode if used with gasoline. This means that if you want to enjoy the Nitro RC car hobby for a long time, use only the type of fuel recommended. By doing so, you will ensure that Nitro RC car racing will grow with you.



What You Must Know about Electric RC Cars

What You Must Know about Electric RC Cars

If you are an amateur in the RC racing world, you might complain that it is pretty hard to choose the most suitable electric powered RC car that can serve as a worthy rival to other cars of the same type. Truly, you need some vital information before you push your purchase button.

Electric RC cars run on electric batteries that are made into battery packs. They are sold in two options – the 'ready to run' (rtr) and the built it yourself. If you know nothing about RC cars, it is best for you to choose the former. With it, you just have to turn it on and off it will go.

RC cars, which are fueled by battery packs are easy to purchase and maintain compared to the popular nitro RC cars. They are especially designed for beginners. Nonetheless, there are experienced RC car fanatics that use said cars for comparison and variety purposes.

One advantage of an electric RC car other than its user-friendly character is that it is inexpensive. The difference in price between a gasoline powered and an electric powered RC car may amount to a hundred dollars. Hence, if you are after practicality, and easily-operated and maintained RC's, go for a fast electric RC car.

How to Choose an Electric RC Car?

In choosing electric RC cars, you have to consider a lot of things – budget, capability, maintenance and condition of the RC car. Electric RC cars come in different prices. Choose the one that will not be heavy on your finances.

There are electric RC car kits for both on-road and off-road performance. They come in varying sizes, styles, and colors. Manufacturers offer different electric RC car features. Better choose a car that suits your budget, needs, capabilities and desires.

Also, 'ready to run' kits are ideal for amateurs. They are built with everything in it. No need to worry about the assembly and other parts. Servo, receiver, radio, motor, and the electronic speed control – it's all there in the package – no worries.

However, if building RC cars is your thing, you can purchase the build it yourself kit. You can make sure that the parts are in your kit or you can buy them separately.

Where to purchase?

Beginners can bank on reputable RC car shops. Seek advice from expert RC racers. For sure, they know the right track. If you want to buy online, be sure that you are transacting with a trustworthy pro. Online prices are usually lower. In addition, in online purchasing, you can choose from a wide-variety of cars and parts.

In buying, you must compare price and quality. Aside from that, you can also take advantage of discounts to reduce your expenses.

Tuning and Racing

Tuning is essential to achieve more speed or power. Moreover, it should be coupled with proper break in to yield the best performance. The proper way of break in produces less heat and reduces premature wear and tear. To break-in, just run the motor with the wheels off the ground. Then, draw the radio control by ¼ of the way. This should be done for about five minutes. If you change the brushes, you also need to do the break in. It is also necessary to replace the motor after 5 or more substitutions of brushes.


Know the Different Tamiya RC Cars


Know the Different Tamiya RC Cars

Tamiya is a company known for producing excellent miniatures of automobiles. They are famous today for introducing the world to competitive mini 4WD racing. What many people do not know is that Tamiya also introduced the world to RC cars. The Tamiya RC car line has a lot of models that show the excellence of the company in model design.

Here are some Tamiya RC car models available today:

1) Nitro Crusher- This Tamiya RC car boasts of a powerful FS-15S engine that features a large diameter slide carburetor to fulfill your need for speed. The engine also has a precision brake system that ensures operation safety. This Tamiya RC car can also fulfill your need for power because it comes in the form of a monster truck.

Drive through all types of terrain as easy as if you were driving on pavement. This Tamiya RC car has various features that allow it to coast through different types of terrain. It has extra-large tires that are perfect for dominating mud, sand or rocks. It also features a frontal impact control system that allows you to have stable running no matter what obstacles you encounter.

2) Mini cooper- If you have no idea what a mini cooper is, think about Mr. Bean's beloved car. This Tamiya RC car is based on that small-but-terrible car of the 1960's. The mini cooper is renowned for its small size and powerful performance. In fact, the mini cooper has even been known to perform extremely well on competitions like the world rally championships.

This Tamiya RC car features an M-03 chassis that's specially designed to be as fast as possible. The double wishbone suspension also ensures the stability of your vehicle and excellent handling. This is an electric RC car, which means that the batteries can add a lot of weight. However, a special hole cut into the chassis ensures that despite the weight, this Tamiya RC car can still run its best.

3) Subaru Impreza WRC Monte Carlo- This Tamiya RC car is designed for the new kind of racing. Yes, this Tamiya RC car is designed to drift. The chassis of this Tamiya RC car, TT-01D, is built from lightweight materials and specifically designed to have a low center of gravity. This means that this Tamiya RC car will not turn over if you try to "drift" it.

What are the advantages of drift racing? Well, during normal turns, there is a tendency for cars to lose speed. By drifting, the car can maintain optimum speed and precision controls. However, there is always the tendency of something going wrong. This is the reason why this Tamiya RC car is engineered to precision.

4) XBG Nitro Force- Capable of unbelievable top speeds, this Tamiya RC car is definitely a force to be reckoned with. Powered with a precision FR-S glow engine, this Tamiya RC car employs a recoil starter for clean starting every time. This Tamiya RC car also boasts of a reinforced resin frame chassis with a low center of gravity, making it stable during driving.

This Tamiya RC car also features a very aerodynamic frame, making sure that the wind will not slow down your need for speed. All in all, if you want a Tamiya RC car that quenches your desire to defy gravity, this is the car that you should be getting.

How to Choose RC Car Parts



How to Choose RC Car Parts

First of all, you should be informed that there are no available toy-grade RC car parts available today. The reason for this is the fact that toy-grade RC cars are pre-assembled and made to be enjoyed while they last. Although they are excellent for teaching the basics of vehicle control, they are not made to be tinkered with. Hobby-grade RC cars, however, may be tinkered with a lot. A lot of RC car parts are available in order to enable people to fully customize their driving experience.

Many people are confused as to the standards of choosing RC car parts. This is because of the fact that manufacturers today always claim that they have the best parts or the cheapest parts around. So how should a person choose RC car parts to use?

1) Compatibility- Some RC car brands or models can only be used with specific RC car parts. This may be because the company who made the RC cars is trying to corner their market, or maybe companies are just ensuring the high performance of their cars. Before you buy any brand of RC car parts, you should see if those parts are compatible with your RC kit. If you are just beginning in the hobby, you should strictly follow this rule in order to avoid damaging your car.

Advanced hobbyists sometimes disobey this rule and try to custom fit different RC car parts to make improvements on their vehicles. However, you should be careful when doing this and you should always make sure that you have the skills necessary to pull this off.

2) Price- Of course, you should realize by now that this hobby will cost you some cash. This means that you should definitely budget your money when you are selecting RC car parts to buy. One tip you can follow is to stick to a certain price range. You can then select the best RC car part that comes within the price range that you have in mind.

If you really want to buy something top-of-the-line, you should try and save your cash. Do not be impulsive when buying RC car parts. Remember that something better will always come along and that costs go down all the time.

However, if you really love RC car racing, then maybe you can sacrifice a bit in order to buy the RC car part you want.

3) Quality- As said before, many advanced users try to mix and match different RC car parts in order to improve the performance of their vehicles. This is because of the fact that different manufacturers have different specializations. Some companies may excel in making engines while others may have high quality chassis� etc. If you can, try to get RC car parts that will improve the performance of your car.

In this case, try not to be too restricted by your budget. Remember that if you buy cheap but low quality RC car parts, you might as well be throwing your money away. By buying high quality RC car parts, you will be able to make sure that you enjoy your investment for a long time.

These are just some of the tips you should follow when buying RC car parts. Remember that the final decision will always be yours. It is your money and your enjoyment on the line, so carefully choose the RC car part to buy.

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Best Negotiating Tips When Buying An Used Car

Best Negotiating Tips When Buying An Used Car

Being a good negotiator doesn't have to be difficult. Sooner or later everyone has to negotiate with someone if they want to get a good deal on a purchase.

When you are trying to negotiate with a car dealer, you should know that they are very practiced in the art already. You will need to know how to get through their car speak in order to be successful.

Since you now know how to calculate your offer and already know what the dealer paid for it, you should get a copy of the paperwork from a friend that recently bought a car, so that you can become familiar with what you will see on your paperwork. They are all generally the same.

If you've followed the above mentioned tips, you will also be pre-approved for a loan. The key is for you to get in and out of the dealership as quickly as possible because the salesman will definitely find more loopholes to up your charges if you stay.

Here are a few tips to successful negotiating.

� Remain positive and confident

� Don't talk down to your opponent

� Show up prepared and ready to counter anything that may come up

� Bring ads from other dealerships with you as an extra weapon

� Finance your loan before you arrive at the dealership so as to avoid paying unnecessary extra fees

� Bring a friend with you for extra support

Something that you should look out for from salesmen is the extra little tricks that you will likely encounter that will try to force or rush into a buying decision.

You have to remember that they are trying to negotiate you into paying more money just as you are trying to negotiate paying less. Here are some of the things that you can expect to hear from them.

1. These cars are flying off of the lot. It may not be available for the same deal tomorrow. (Threaten to leave and they will ease up and try to change their strategy)

2. This deal is only good for today. If you come back tomorrow I can't guarantee that the deal will be the same.

3. I'm an honest man. Look at how many cars I've sold this weekend (This is where he will show you his list of sold cars. If he does this, then tell him that he doesn't need your money).

4. I hate to tell you this but I have another offer on the table from a man that is willing to pay more money than this. I am just waiting for his paperwork to be returned. (Tell him that if he promised the car to someone else, you don't want to step on someone else's toes and that you should leave then).

5. To cover the overhead costs, we have paid $13,000 for this car (Just check your paperwork in your folder and prove them wrong)

3 Secret Tips Before You Buy A Used Car

3 Secret Tips Before You Buy A Used Car

I have always purchased my cars used. And every single time, I got a great deal because of a few secrets that is easy to do.

These secrets will save you money. And the good news is there is no luck involved.

If you follow these steps you are guaranteed to save lots of money, so please pay attention.

BUYING A USED CAR Power Tip #1 - Check Consumer Reports on the safest cars out there. Looks are one thing, but never ignore safety.

Here's what you do: Go to a reputable car repair shop and ask if you can bring the vehicle by for a look-over.

There is a 99% chance they will say "yes".

While you're there, ask what cars they have to repair most often. Also, ask what the inspection includes, how long it takes, and the price. Always get this information in writing - just to be safe.

Once the vehicle has been inspected, ask the mechanic for a written report with a cost estimate for all necessary repairs.

Be sure the report includes the vehicle's make, model and VIN. If you decide to make an offer to the dealer after approving the inspection, you can use the estimated repair costs to negotiate the price of the vehicle.

Do you see how easy it is?

Are you going to purchase from an individual? If yes, then here is your next tip.

BUYING A USED CAR Power Tip #2

Remember, private sellers generally are not covered by the Used Car Rule and don't have to use the Buyers Guide. However, you can use the Guide's list of an auto's major systems as a shopping tool.

It's simple.

You can ask the seller if you can have the vehicle inspected by your mechanic. If he/she says no... beware. No matter how nice the car appears, something fishy is going on.

Now, a private sale likely will be on an "as is" basis, unless your purchase agreement with the seller specifically states otherwise. If you have a written contract, the seller has to live up to the contract.

The car also may be covered by a manufacturer's warranty or a separately purchased service contract. But that doesn't mean that the warranty and service contract are transferable.

Plus, other limits or costs may apply. Before you buy the car, ask if it's still under warranty or service contract, and review that baby carefully.

Some states will require vehicle sellers to pass a vehicle inspection before a sale is made. That's not always the case, though. To find out what your state requires, contact your state Attorney General's office or a local consumer protection agency.

Hey, it's just a phone call. And it will take less than 5 minutes.

Whether you end up buying a used car from a dealer, a co-worker, or a neighbor, follow these tips to learn as much as you can about the car:

BUYING A USED CAR Power Tip #3

Examine the car carefully yourself using an inspection checklist. You can find a checklist in many of the magazine articles, books and Internet sites that deal with buying a used car.

Once I bought a used car in August, and never thought to test the rear defroster. Guess what? Come November, I found out it didn't work. If you're shopping in the summer, don't forget to check the heater. And if it's cold as ice outside, still turn that air on full blast and make sure it works!

Test drive the car under varied road conditions--on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic.

Ask for the car's maintenance record. If the owner doesn't have copies, contact the dealership or repair shop where most of the work was done. They may share their files with you.

Talk to the previous owner, especially if the present owner is unfamiliar with the car's history.

Have the car inspected by a mechanic you hire.

There you go.

Follow those three "used car buying" tips and you are guaranteed to save a ton of money buying a used car.

Buying A Used Car - The Wise Way!

Buying A Used Car - The Wise Way!

I have always purchased my cars used. And each time, I got a great deal. Don't think I counted on luck, though - no siree. There are a few "musts" for making sure you don't end up drinking "lemon"-ade.

Spending a little time now may save you serious money later. Check Consumer Reports on the safest cars out there. Looks are one thing, but don't ignore safety.

Go to a reputable car repair shop and ask if you can bring the vehicle by for a look-over. While you're there, ask what cars they have to repair most often. Take heed. Also, ask what the inspection includes, how long it takes, and the price. Always get this information in writing - just to be safe.

Once the vehicle has been inspected, ask the mechanic for a written report with a cost estimate for all necessary repairs. Be sure the report includes the vehicle�s make, model and VIN. Go over it with a fine-toothed comb and make sure you understand every item. If you decide to make an offer to the dealer after approving the inspection, you can use the estimated repair costs to negotiate the price of the vehicle.

Are you going to purchase from an individual?

Remember, private sellers generally are not covered by the Used Car Rule and don�t have to use the Buyers Guide. However, you can use the Guide�s list of an auto�s major systems as a shopping tool. You also can ask the seller if you can have the vehicle inspected by your mechanic. If he/she says no... beware. No matter how nice the car appears, something fishy is going on.

Now, a private sale likely will be on an "as is" basis, unless your purchase agreement with the seller specifically states otherwise. If you have a written contract, the seller has to live up to the contract. The car also may be covered by a manufacturer�s warranty or a separately purchased service contract. But that doesn't mean that the warranty and service contract are transferable. Plus, other limits or costs may apply. Before you buy the car, ask if it's still under warranty or service contract, and review that baby carefully.

Some states will require vehicle sellers to pass a vehicle inspection before a sale is made. That's not always the case, though. To find out what your state requires, contact your state Attorney General's office or a local consumer protection agency. Hey, it's just a phone call. And it could save you a real headache later!

Whether you end up buying a used car from a dealer, a co-worker, or a neighbor, follow these tips to learn as much as you can about the car:

Examine the car carefully yourself using an inspection checklist. You can find a checklist in many of the magazine articles, books and Internet sites that deal with buying a used car. My favorite book that I've used several times is How to Buy and Maintain a Used Car by Brad Crouch.

Once I bought a used car in August, and never thought to test the rear defroster. Guess what? Come November, I found out it didn't work. If you're shopping in the summer, don't forget to check the heater. And if it's cold as ice outside, still turn that air on full blast and make sure it works!

Test drive the car under varied road conditions�on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic.

Ask for the car�s maintenance record. If the owner doesn�t have copies, contact the dealership or repair shop where most of the work was done. They may share their files with you.

Talk to the previous owner, especially if the present owner is unfamiliar with the car�s history.

Have the car inspected by a mechanic you hire.

There you go. Do your homework, and it's very likely that, like me, you'll find yourself buying used every time!

4 tips to save a bundle on your next new car purchase

4 tips to save a bundle on your next new car purchase

Many of us have been at the car dealership and have been drained by a salesperson during price negotiations for the purchase of a new car. Most people give in too easily or do not negotiate at all to avoid the dreadful act. This only means more money in the car dealers’ pocket, while you are out of several thousand dollars! Yes, they make that much in profit per car.

This article unveils the dealer’s selling tactics and how you can get around them. But before we dive into the new car buying tips, we need to understand what makes up the dealer’s profits.

In addition to the MSRP (manufacturer suggested retail price), which is the dealer’s cost for the car plus an additional 20-25% profit, a dealer also gets financial incentives from the manufacturer when a new car is sold. This is called Holdback.

Depending on the car, dealers can make hundreds on each car through holdbacks. Dealers also get additional incentives and bonuses on selling a car before the end of the month and/or quarter.

A shrewd dealer can make several thousand on a new car even by selling it at invoice price. This is how new car buying can become tricky for the consumer.

Ready to learn how not to put a dent in your wallet on your next car purchase? Here are four tips to get you started. Each one is a dealer tactic to watch out for.

1. The Guilt Trip

As you may have noticed, every desk in a dealership has photos of the salesperson’s family, instead of photos of cars. Midway in the negotiation, the sales person will bring them up and make it look like his little commission check can hardly pay for his daughters college and little Bradley’s braces.

A seasoned salesperson will soon have you feeling guilty for driving the price down and hurting his commission. Watch out not to fall for this tactic, since you already know about holdbacks and incentive programs from manufacturers.

2. Wearing You Down

Come prepared to spend half a day at the dealership or pay whatever the dealer asks for. Car Dealers are trained to delay and tire you out to the point where you give in and accept their price just to get out of there.

After you make your offer, sales people typically claim they would have to run it by their manager. You may then have to re-start negotiating with the manager, who is also a seasoned salesperson. This dance goes on for a while until you give in.

Remember, there are multiple dealerships in a city, so they need you more than you need them. Demand to speak to the manager after a certain time period or threaten to leave.
Because you are devoting a lot of time to bargain with the dealer, they know you are a serious buyer, so they will not let you leave. The earlier you can speak with the manager, the faster you can leave.

3. The Test Drive

We all enjoy a good test drive and look forward to it. Although it is essential to test drive a car before you buy it, remember to not show your absolute love for the car to the salesperson. Their goal is to get you emotionally attached to the car, so it becomes a must have for you. I have learned it the hard way.

To hide your emotional tears from the salesperson, mention the features of a competing car in the same class, like the new shape, light, leg room, resale value etc. This will make the salesperson a little vulnerable.

4. Monthly Payments

This one is to confuse you. Dealers will start talking about monthly payments rather than the total price of the car. They will start by asking how much you are willing to pay per month and how much of a down payment you are willing to pay. Since people don’t want to look like they cannot afford a certain car, they will usually give a higher number. Big Mistake!

You have left little room for negotiation when this happens. Always steer the conversation to the total price of the car and do NOT mention any trade-ins at this point. Only after the total price of the vehicle is completely negotiated then talk about interest, monthly payment and trade-ins.

General Rule;

As a general rule, remember to only focus and negotiate on the Total Price of the vehicle. Everything else is pretty much the car dealer’s trough.

If the above new car buying tips seem like a lot of hassle, yet you still want to get the best price in town, there are some websites that do this for you. www.AutoAuctionBids.com for example is a great website for this because you can collect price quotes from multiple local dealers for a particular car as well as its competing car models (like Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Ford Taurus) and compare them.

The website then allows you to send back the lowest quotes received for each car make to all participating dealers in your area through the website itself.

Dealers view this price and continue to submit new lower prices over a 3 day period. By putting local car dealers in such a price competition allows you to avoid the dreadful face to face negotiation and yet gets you the lowest price in town for up to 3 competing car makes.

The best part about AutoAuctionBids.com is that it is absolutely free for you and there is no obligation to buy after the new car auction is over.

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Car Shopping Made Easier And More Friendly!

Car Shopping Made Easier And More Friendly!



A little bit of knowledge goes a long way in all situations in life. Buying a car is no different! That means you need to read advice from experts, as detailed below, to ensure that when you shop for that car, you really know what you're doing and how to get the best deal.



When purchasing a used vehicle , a great way to tell if the car has been in an accident is to look into the door frames. Usually when a car is repainted, you will notice over spray in this area. This is not good proof that a vehicle  was in an accident, but it will let you know it was repainted.



Ask for advice and recommendations from others. Do they like their cars? How well would they say the car has held its value? Have they heard of any other vehicles that might be better? When you're in the market for a car, this is a good way to get some preliminary information that you can start with.



Do not pay for lots of extras when you are buying a car. Sure, it would be nice to have a lot of fun features in your new car, but do you really need them? Every toy or gadget you add jacks up the price of the car considerably. Figure out what you really need, and just stick to that.



Many salespeople have monthly quotas or goals. Keep this in mind, and try to head out at the end of each month. Anyone who needs to make their quota will do what it takes to sell a car. Doing so gives you an advantage during negotiation.



Work on your credit score before you buy a car. A bad credit score means higher interest fees. That will result in a higher monthly car bill. And in some cases, that will result in higher premiums for car insurance. Get your credit in order so you aren't locked into high fees for the life of your car loan.



Figure out how much you can afford on a car payment before you get there. If you wait, your eyes will be big, and you will be willing to pay anything to get what you want. Start out with a firm figure and do not allow yourself to be moved by anything the salesman says.



It is a nice idea to do plenty of research on cars before you ever go to a dealership. The more you know about a particular model, the better you can judge whether it is right for you. There are many online resources that let you compare different brands and models.



All car dealerships are not made equally. If you find one store to have prices that are very expensive, just walk right back out. If they have increased  their products, you can feel free to assume they will not take this negotiation seriously. Look for a reputable dealer instead.



Wait until a new model isn't so new, if you really want it. There's no deal in being the first person with the latest car, if you have to pay more for it. Usually, prices go down after the initial launch. So, if you can hold off your excitement for a few weeks or more, you may get a better deal.



Whenever buying a certified pre-owned vehicle, try and find out what the return policy is, or even if one exists. If one does, make sure you understand how long it is and whether or not you will get registration and licence fees refunded along with sales tax for the vehicle.



A dealer with a great reputation may offer you a better deal than one which advertises great prices. You may discover that a dealer who people like to buy from offers perks which aren't available elsewhere, including reduced pressure sales tactics and lower overall price due to freebies thrown in to the sale.



When it comes to purchasing a car, whether new or pre-owned, you need to beef up on your negotiation skills. vehicles  are intentionally marked up because the sellers understand that a negotiation must take place. So make sure you NEVER pay sticker price for your vehicle and if you can't haggle, get someone to do it for you.



If you start to feel pressured or uncomfortable  by a salesman, just walk away. Even if they attempt to change your mind, exit anyway. Give any excuse you'd like, but don't stay another minute. Leave if you do not feel comfortable at any point. You have other choices, so there is no reason to stay if you feel uncomfortable.



A certified used vehicle does not guarantee that the vehicle is in good condition. This is just a new way for car dealers to trick people into thinking that they are guaranteed a high quality used vehicle. Do not fall for it. Research certified vehicles just as you would any other to fully protect yourself.



Never give your trade-in's keys to the dealer before you've come to an agreement. The dealer could take your keys (and thus, your car) hostage and manipulate you into an unfair deal. Always hold on to your keys and if the dealer wants to take a look inside the car, open it up for them while you hold the keys.



Whether you wanted to save money, buy a great car, avoid buying a lemon or just be able to take control of the situation, this article has the advice you needed. It just takes simple steps towards gaining the knowledge you need. When you use what you've learned here, you'll truly get what you want.

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Buying A Car Just Got Easier With These Great Ideas

Buying A Car Just Got Easier With These Great Ideas



Some people don't know when to trust a dealership or when they are being duped. It's not easy to tell, and the salesmen don't just out themselves. You have to know what you're doing, and you need to be prepared. Consider the helpful tips you're about to read in order to get you better prepared for next time.



Never go with the set price of a car when you're car shopping. Usually people price things knowing that they'll have to lower it when the buyer gets there. If you are paying with cash, it doesn't hurt to tell them that either. People that see a lot of money are more likely to let it go for less.



Don't forget to a look into the cost of parts for a vehicle before you buy it. Some cars, especially imports, cost significantly more to maintain than others. Investigate the cost of parts that wear out frequently, such as tires, brakes, and windshield wiper blades. Research the cost of alternators, spark plugs, and other engine components, too.



When shopping for a car, bring someone along. Your person will be your second set of eyes and ears. You can take your significant other with you, your mom or dad, or a friend.



Call the bank to see if you can get the financing you need for the vehicle you are interested in. This can provide you with important peace of mind. You may get a better interest rate through a dealership, but it's best to know before deciding.



Before you go in to look at a new car, make sure you have thoroughly researched the proper trade in value of your current car. In fact, why not try to sell it yourself first before you buy. Either way, you will get more from your vehicle if you know what it is really worth.



Have a budget in mind before you go car shopping. This includes  assessing your monthly income and bills, and having a clear understanding of how much you can really afford to add to those. Doing this will help you to stay in budget when you make your new car purchase.



Consider renting a car just to test drive them. This allows you to learn more about the cars you are considering. Take your family on a road trip, and you'll see if the car is a fit for you. You can decide if you like the car on the highway and when driving long distances.



Talk to your friends and neighbors before buying your car. Ask what their experience was like with various dealerships, and visit only the dealerships that you are hearing positive things about. This can save you a lot of hassle while you are shopping and make your car buying experience that much more pleasant.



When buying  a car, do not fall for the salesman's ploy that you must make a deal now to get the special pricing. Instead, tell the salesman you are going to get something to eat and will return in an hour. This will allow time for your emotional attachment to lessen making you able to negotiate the best terms and price.



Hone your negotiation skills before you go to the lot. Practice with friends and family to help you prepare for the big day. Read online to find out what sort of sales tactics dealers use. This will give you the answer to any question they ask, keeping the power in your hands.



Calculate the yearly mileage you will be driving. This will help you decide if you should lease a vehicle or purchase a vehicle outright. If you normally drive less than 1,000 miles a month, you should consider a lease. A leased car generally has lower payments than a car purchased outright.



Your first offer should be at or very close to the invoice price of the vehicle. This likely be rejected, but will start the negotiation process in your favor. At some point, the salesperson will likely step out to speak to a manager. When they return, if the price is within your price range, accept. If not, continue negotiations. If you have not reached an agreement within 2 or 3 tries, it may be time to cut your losses and try another dealer.



Although it's a good idea that you dress well when purchasing a car, just remember not to overdress. If you walk into the dealer looking as if you have all the money in the world, it will be almost impossible to negotiate a more affordable deal.



A great tips for anyone contemplating a vehicle purchase is to ask friends and family members if they are privy to any manufacturer's discount programs that may result in a lower overall price. Many car makers and parts suppliers operate "friends and family" discount programs in which employees can provide others with discount codes that can be used to generate substantial savings on new cars and trucks. Taking advantage of such opportunities is a great way to make your dollar stretch even further at the dealership.



It's a wonderful thing to know what you're doing when you go to buy a car at a dealership. Now that you know more of what to look for and do, you will be much better prepared the next time around. Put everything you've learned together, and make sure you are one step ahead next time.

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Helpful Tips And Tricks For Car Shoppers

Helpful Tips And Tricks For Car Shoppers

So you're ready to get your first car! Congrats, but do you really know everything that is involved with the purchase of a vehicle. To someone who is new to this world, there are a lot of important factors to consider when buying a car. Read on and learn some helpful hints and tips.



Anytime you are thinking about purchasing a car, you first need to know the true value of the car. This can be done by searching online for the MRSP and comparing it with the offers you find in your area. Be sure to check at many different sites first of all.



When you are going to buy a car, you need to know ahead of time which features are essential for you in the car. Have a clear picture of what you want, so you can search for the right price as well as the right car for your needs.



Look online for the best available deals. Some of the best deals can be found on the Internet. Find what you like, and have your dealership order it for you. If the source isn't too far away, go get it yourself.



Prior to purchasing a used car, ask an independent mechanic to have a look. If they refuse, go elsewhere. A good mechanic can provide an impartial opinion regarding any problems with the vehicle, such as signs that the car has been wrecked or submerged in flood water.



Don't forget to calculate ownership costs when selecting a new vehicle. That bargain priced SUV might not be such a good deal if it means you will be spending twice the amount you used to on gasoline to drive it. The same goes for sporty racing style cars or models favored by car thieves that both can come with increased insurance rates.



If the price of a car is non-negotiable, see if you can negotiate on other terms. Some dealerships will agree to provide several months' worth of free gasoline or a year of free oil changes, for instance. It never hurts to ask if a salesman can sweeten the deal.



Never purchase a car the same day that you find it. A rule of thumb is to sleep on the decision. That way you have time to think about the pros and cons of the car and how much you think the car is for you. Do not worry that the car will be sold in the meantime as there are many more out there.



Once you know how much you have to spend, find out about the cars within that range. Learn about the car itself, its miles per gallon, number of doors, trunk space, driver's reviews, safety record and how frequently it needs repairs on average. Assign each a rating and go for those at the top of the list.



One of the most important things to consider before making a car purchase is which car or style you want. By deciding this before entering a dealership, you will be able to avoid high-pressure sales. It also helps you to consolidate your searching and really inform yourself about one specific make and model.



If you're worried about your credit score, you can check your credit report before you go to the dealership. It's free to check your credit report once a year, so take advantage of that. By knowing your credit before you go to the dealership, you'll be able to determine if you'd be able to qualify for any low interest financing offers.



Check for dealer incentives. You might want to call ahead to a few different dealerships to find out which promotions; they are running that may benefit you. Do that before going out to a million different spots. Just use the phone and ask them personally, and you may be able to save more on your car.



Watch out for dealership advertising fees. These are often tacked on to new car purchases, and you should not have to pay them. Car dealerships have to advertise as part of doing business, and many shoppers who challenge this fee will win. If your salesman will not remove this fee, ask to speak with a manager.



Get a loan from your bank instead of the car dealer. A car dealership makes a lot of their income selling loans, and because of this, the loans are almost always more costly in the long run. To ensure that you pay as little as you can you should get a loan approved by a bank before you even begin looking for a vehicle.



Hopefully you haven't been scared away with all of the information given in the article above. Yes, there is a lot to consider when purchasing a car, but when you take your time and do your research you are much more likely to end up with a car that you'll be happy with for years to come. So go out there and get it done!

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