Five Reasons You Should Buy Used Cars Now

The new car market, poised for a sixth consecutive year of sales growth, has enjoyed a renaissance since the Great Recession. With prices rising due to strong demand, sellers are making a killing on new models. The same cannot be said in the secondary market, where prices are expected to decline for the foreseeable future. Is now the time to buy? Here are five reasons you should start shopping for used cars ASAP.

1. Lower Prices

Because people can only buy a new or a used car, prices in these markets tend to move in opposite directions depending on demand. As we mentioned, the new vehicle market is hot right now, which means demand for pre-owned vehicles is comparatively low. Not surprisingly, sellers have been lowering prices on these autos to attract new customers. But just because there are deals to be found does not necessarily mean that now is the time to buy. After all, prices could continue to fall to lower levels in the future. With that said, those who need a secondhand ride are certainly in the driver's seat in the present.

2. Larger Selection

Another reason pre-owned values are falling is that drivers are trading in their old rides for new ones, which has greatly increased the industry's supply of cars. Although this trend is undoubtedly bad for sellers, it's definitely good news for shoppers. With unlimited access to millions of secondhand vehicles online, a buyer can find nearly any model he desires. He need not compromise on the features or amenities he wants, since custom models are quite common in the secondary market.

3. Aging U.S. Fleet

Nothing lasts forever, but drivers are treating their cars as if they might. The age of the average U.S. vehicle is at a record high of 11.5 years. Now, as impressive as that kind of longevity may be, it's certainly not safe. Older machines are, after all, at a much higher risk of malfunctioning, breaking down, or simply failing than newer ones. Ancient autos are also far more expensive to care for and maintain than younger ones.

4. Safety Features

In earlier eras, shoppers almost always had to sacrifice safety when they bought used cars. Because safety features were not standard at the time, there was a big difference between older and newer vehicles. But now that these features are required, there are no longer huge discrepancies in the safety of pristine and pre-owned models. Most come fully equipped with multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.

5. Low-Interest Rates

With demand low, lenders are offering better deals on auto loans. Although you should expect to pay a slightly higher interest rate than if you were buying an unused ride, it isn't that much more expensive. Most shoppers with good credit can secure a good deal from the seller or a third-party lender.

Preparing for the Car Dealer: Tips to Get You Through the Day

You've done the research. You've settled on your dream car... or at least something you'll want to hold onto for the next few years. Now it's off to the car dealer to make that dream a reality. While ultimately a happy day for most, the car buying process can work even the most centered person into a frenzy. Here are five things you can do to make the day less stressful.

1. Eat a good breakfast.

A good meal (high in protein, low in sugar) will give you the mental and physical energy to focus and concentrate on the task at hand. This process is likely to take three to four hours at the minimum. Don't let being hungry ruin this experience for you. Keep a low sugar snack on hand (a pack of almonds, perhaps) for when you feel yourself start to wane.

2. Know what YOU want.

Write it down and be able to articulate that to the car dealer. Want to treat yourself to a fancier sound system but not interested in the cargo option? Make that known. Know what is negotiable and what you will hold steadfast. Having a clear goal in mind beforehand will help to alleviate unnecessary tension.

3. Be aware of what is in your credit report.

Nothing is worse than being an hour or more into the car buying process and then sitting down in front of the finance manager only to find out that the credit card you maxed out in college is coming back to haunt you. Under The Fair Credit Reporting Act, each of the national credit reporting companies is required to provide you with a copy of your credit report once every 12 months. Take advantage of this free service to avoid nasty surprises. For more information visit the Federal Trade Commission website.

4. Know what your trade-in is worth.

Unfortunately, sentimental value has no real value in the buying world. Your four-wheeled pal may have been loyal to you, getting you home safe from all those late night study sessions in college; however, if the A/C is broken or it requires other costly repairs, be prepared for an offer that's lower than expected. In addition to the Kelley Blue Book Value, have your trade-in professionally appraised. Many body shops offer this service for a small fee or even sometimes free for regular customers.

5. Know your limits.

For most people, the car buying process will take up an entire day's worth of energy. Don't plan to do it on the day your sister is getting married or the day you plan to break things off with your significant other. Once you are finished with the car dealer, treat yourself. Wind down and relish the fact that you are now a seasoned car buyer.

Developing The Culture of Maintenance of Machinery: Lessons From The Wise Maxims of Our Forebears

Machinery is a great product of human wisdom designed with the sole aim of easing the painstaking task of work. Serving relentlessly as faithful slaves, machines respond to the will of man without a word. Some users of this machinery abuse this right of the speechless workaholic devices by constantly requiring their services without having a thought of maintaining them. Indeed, the culture of maintenance has not been a vocabulary in the books of many factory managers. Yet, the machines are their latent source of revenue. As humans require personal and regular health checks and care, so does the machinery that we use in our everyday life activities.

Our genius forebears craftily developed the culture of maintenance and it was evident in their everyday life activities as well as the maxims that were frequently used in their conversations at family and societal meetings. Though they never had the modern machinery, the few resources that were at their disposal were judiciously used and regularly maintained. The numerous ancient buildings that inspire awe and are tourist sites today were maintained on a routine basis. The philosophical underwriting of some of the maxims that regulated their moral behavior regarding the essence of cultivating a maintenance culture have high currencies in our quest in maintaining our machinery today. The paper discusses two of these maxims and their resonance in the culture of maintenance.

1. Procrastination is the thief of time-

This wise maxim warns against the constant postponement of repair and maintenance of machinery. Usually, owners of these devices procrastinate whenever machinery gives signs of needing repair of its parts. Owing to the fact that owners feel the signs of a defect is minimal they usually turn deaf ears to it. The aftermath of such attitude leads to incurring huge repair bills which could have been avoided. On the other hand, prompt attention to a repair need on regular basis attract minimal cost since less material is lost whereas the vice versa results in extensive repairs. Thus, it is worthwhile to act swiftly to maintain machinery rather than to procrastinate.

2. Eating the food at one's disposal gradually is better than eating all in one day-

This adage warns against the attitude of undertaking a Herculean activity once, but it, however, advice on carrying it out gradually. This is true in the case of maintenance of machinery. The great pain and the high cost of engaging in such repairs can suck all the financial strength of the owner of the machinery or the company. Such attitude mostly leads to the neglect of such machinery because of high maintenance, which comes at a great cost to factories and individuals. On the other hand, a regular, minimal form of maintenance is less costly and less demanding. Indeed, attending to the routine oiling of machinery parts has been always much cheaper and less time-consuming.

Conserving and sustaining one's machinery on a regular basis by cultivating the culture of maintenance pays greatly. It saves our lives since faulty machinery usually results in accidents. It aids us to wisely use our time and money while ensuring constant and efficient productivity as well as increasing the lifespan of machines. More importantly, it speaks well of our personality, as persons who are responsible, poised and resourceful. Let us seriously ponder and imitate the maintenance culture of our intelligent forebears and it will impact greatly on our machinery, even conserving them for future progeny.

Find a Good Driving School When Learning To Drive

Finding a good driving school is the first step in getting a driving permit which is mandatory in all the countries of the world to be able to drive an automobile in that country. Learning to drive may be easy, but being allowed to drive is the important thing. Given the nature of driving and the potential hazards of speed, it is no wonder that driving regulations are very strict. Indeed, getting one is an achievement and an event to celebrate.

Finding a good driving school is key to getting a driving license. Even good drivers need driving lessons. Especially if they come from another country, they have to relearn driving, according to the driving rules of that country, like the side of the road you are supposed to keep, the side the steering wheel, and the penalty structure for driving offenses.

What are the characteristics of a good driving school?

Preparing the learner for the driving test is an important task of the driving school. Towards this end also, the following are necessary in a good driving school

· Professional Instructors - who make it possible for their students to learn how to drive a car by feeling the responsibility of actually applying what is taught to them.

· Theory Test- it is always good to be tested on the theoretical knowledge that is necessary for a driver. In some countries it is mandatory to take a theory test, usually online.

· Skill training is complementary to the theory study, where actual skills are taught which are exclusively required for driving in that particular terrain and according to the road plans and rules. Emphasis is given to the need to perfect general skills like maneuvering the vehicle, parking, etc. all of which are tested by the authorities during the actual driving test.

· Good facilities - like a large area for learning to navigate etc.

· Comprehensive driving test- some schools conduct a theory and skills test on their own, so you could ask contacts for referrals of those schools.

How to locate a good driving school

It is best to locate one in your neighborhood itself. This makes it easy to go for lessons. You can ask around in your neighborhood for one of good repute and satisfying the above conditions. You can check online and take down the contact details of a few to get competitive rates.

What are the benefits of going to a good driving school

Personal training

The instructors train new drivers at a personal level, about the rules and procedures of the road. It is one thing to learn theoretically, but quite another when you are in the middle of the road driving amongst others who may or may not follow the rules. Teens especially benefit in this aspect.

Confidence Building of the right kind

Overconfidence and lack of confidence are the two demons that face new drivers. Teens usually fall in the first category which gets them into trouble with the authorities for speeding and not following traffic rules. Lack of confidence has you freeze up in anxiety when faced with an unexpected problem on the road like your car engine suddenly dying out.

Preparing Teens for the road - Teaching a teen to drive can be a trying experience for a parent who is concerned about his car as well! It is best to send them to a driving school from where they emerge as responsible drivers, leaving the brashness or diffidence behind.

Find a Good Driving School When Learning To Drive

Finding a good driving school is the first step in getting a driving permit which is mandatory in all the countries of the world to be able to drive an automobile in that country. Learning to drive may be easy, but being allowed to drive is the important thing. Given the nature of driving and the potential hazards of speed, it is no wonder that driving regulations are very strict. Indeed, getting one is an achievement and an event to celebrate.

Finding a good driving school is key to getting a driving license. Even good drivers need driving lessons. Especially if they come from another country, they have to relearn driving, according to the driving rules of that country, like the side of the road you are supposed to keep, the side the steering wheel, and the penalty structure for driving offenses.

What are the characteristics of a good driving school?

Preparing the learner for the driving test is an important task of the driving school. Towards this end also, the following are necessary in a good driving school

· Professional Instructors - who make it possible for their students to learn how to drive a car by feeling the responsibility of actually applying what is taught to them.

· Theory Test- it is always good to be tested on the theoretical knowledge that is necessary for a driver. In some countries it is mandatory to take a theory test, usually online.

· Skill training is complementary to the theory study, where actual skills are taught which are exclusively required for driving in that particular terrain and according to the road plans and rules. Emphasis is given to the need to perfect general skills like maneuvering the vehicle, parking, etc. all of which are tested by the authorities during the actual driving test.

· Good facilities - like a large area for learning to navigate etc.

· Comprehensive driving test- some schools conduct a theory and skills test on their own, so you could ask contacts for referrals of those schools.

How to locate a good driving school

It is best to locate one in your neighborhood itself. This makes it easy to go for lessons. You can ask around in your neighborhood for one of good repute and satisfying the above conditions. You can check online and take down the contact details of a few to get competitive rates.

What are the benefits of going to a good driving school

Personal training

The instructors train new drivers at a personal level, about the rules and procedures of the road. It is one thing to learn theoretically, but quite another when you are in the middle of the road driving amongst others who may or may not follow the rules. Teens especially benefit in this aspect.

Confidence Building of the right kind

Overconfidence and lack of confidence are the two demons that face new drivers. Teens usually fall in the first category which gets them into trouble with the authorities for speeding and not following traffic rules. Lack of confidence has you freeze up in anxiety when faced with an unexpected problem on the road like your car engine suddenly dying out.

Preparing Teens for the road - Teaching a teen to drive can be a trying experience for a parent who is concerned about his car as well! It is best to send them to a driving school from where they emerge as responsible drivers, leaving the brashness or diffidence behind.

Accessories Designed For Utility Vehicles

In many places all around the world, utility vehicles have become a staple for many businesses such as landscapers, contractors, painters, and other fields which require one to carry their equipment with them from one job to another. They offer a convenient means of transporting various items such as ladders comma, compressors, pipes, hoses, and a variety of other things, when they are needed for the work being performed. There are a range of accessories especially designed to enhance the functionality of these trucks.

The versatility of these vehicles is part of what makes them so attractive for contractors and individuals such as farmers, who need a way to transport their professional equipment. Fitting the truck with specialized utilities can increase the amount of usable space in the most efficient manner. These items permit one to customize the vehicle to their own unique needs and specifications.

The first item most people will purchase is a tray. This goes in the area formerly occupied by the bed of a pickup, and serves as the cargo transport surface. It differs from the traditional in that it sits above the wheel well, which makes taking equipment on and off easier by eliminating the need for bending and reaching, and provides an opportunity to add more customization for storage.

If the individual prefers, they can add drop-down sides and a tailgate to the tray to keep things inside the storage area. Steps may also be installed either along the sides, or at the rear of the vehicle. They are easily pulled down when one needs to step up into the tray, and conveniently fold up to be stored when not in use.

Another item that many people choose to have installed on the tray are tie-down hooks. These can be placed in specific locations along the edges, or they may be in the form of rails that run the full length of the bed, allowing for more versatility in where the ropes and straps may be secured. Articles of this type are very useful in preventing equipment and other cargo from sliding around during transport.

Ladder racks are yet another very common accessory chosen by individuals who use utility vehicles regularly. These custom fit items are installed directly to the tray and allow for over-sized equipment, such as pipes and tubes, to be carried above the cab of the truck. This practically doubles the amount of cargo space available.

Adding pull out drawers to the underside of the bed is another way to increase the amount of storage area on the truck. These items come in various sizes and are great for storing handheld tools and smaller items. They come fitted with with either key, or a hinge styled locks, for security and to prevent theft or vandalism.

Ute tool boxes come in a variety of different styles and sizes to accommodate the needs of many varied individuals. They are generally installed up against the cab of the truck and maybe of up to three levels high, featuring lift up lids, drawers, or cabinets. The types of accessories one chooses to add to their vehicle can make it easy to customize to their unique needs and preferences.

Tips to Keep Your Car on the Road Long

A car is a major investment and regular preventive maintenance will allow you to keep it on the road for ten years and more.

If you want to keep your car on the road and out of the shop, consider the following six tips:

1. Change your filter regularly

Checking fluid levels regularly and changing the fluids and filters periodically can minimize the risks of breakdowns and prolong the life of the engine, transmission, cooling system and brakes.

You need to change air filters, fuel filters and oil filters on a regular basis to keep your engine performing well. In countries with high sulfur fuel, you need to change your fuel and oil filter in half the recommended time. Air filter needs to be changed every two months in rural areas and deserts, and windy and dusty countries. Most folks change their oil filter when they are draining and replacing their engine oil and fuel filter every six months.

2. Check and replace Fluids

A car is a machine and like any machine it needs oil replaced on a regular basis. Engine oil needs to be changed every 5000 miles, engine coolant flushed and replace every six months and transmission fluid every two years or every 30,000 miles whichever comes first. Flush and replace your brake fluid and power steering every two years.

Engine oil is the one that needs to be looked at regularly. A few years ago you were asked to check the oil level every time you went to the petrol pump but now it is fine if you check the engine oil level every month and fill it if it is below the safe level.

3. Drive safely

Nothing reduces a car's value and longevity than an accident so safe driving habits are essential. Follow all traffic rules and avoid speeding. Don't drive drunk and avoid texting and talking on mobile phone while driving. Avoid driving when you are tired and drowsy.

4. Don't drive as much and avoid short trips

The more you drive your car, the more wear and tear it gets. If you walk as much as possible to nearby destinations, you not only improve your health, you also increase your car's life.

A large numbers of short trips of 10 minutes and less cause a lot of wear and tear as cars don't have the time to reach optimum operating temperature. Walk if possible or combine a number of errands for a longer trip.

5. Get annual checkup done

Find a good honest mechanic and get a thorough maintenance done at least once a year. The mechanic will check your battery, check and change your fluids and filters, check air-conditioner refrigerant, get your tires rotated and balanced and your alignment checked, change your spark plugs and replace your wipers if necessary, He will thoroughly clean up your vehicle innards and ferret out any possible problem with the car and recondition it as new.

6. Choose a good car

If you want your car, pickup truck or SUV to last then research the model and its track record. Stick with major brands as Toyota, Ford, Nissan and Mercedes-Benz and you cannot go wrong. If you want a pickup go for the Indestructible Toyota Hilux, if you are looking for a Sport Utility Vehicle then Toyota Fortuner, Toyota Prado or Toyota Land Cruiser are good options. If you are looking for luxury vehicles then a BMW, Mercedes-Benz or Porsche will work best.