How To Buy A Used Car

First do a visual inspection

* Look for signs of rust, if you see rust move on to another vehicle.

* Make sure to inspect all windows and especially the windshield for scratches, bullseyes or

cracks

* Check to see if there is uneven wear and tear on the tires. Also ensure there is lots of tread left

* Open up the trunk so you can be sure there is a spare tire and jack

* Look at the end of the tailpipe, if you see oil dont buy the car!

* Check the oil and radiator fluid and make sure it is clean and there is no burnt smell

* Look under the hood for frayed electrical cords, leaks, general condition etc

Road Test

* Enter the vehicle and test the electrical components such as the radio, c.d. player, wipers power windows and doors, heat and air conditioning

* Make sure the turn signals work and step on the brake and have someone behind the vehicle tell you if they work

* Turn the vehicle on, is it idling properly?

* Take it for a drive, is it accelerating and braking smoothly?

* Check the alignment when it is safe to take your hands off the steering wheel. Does the car pull to one side?

* Drive over a bumpy road to test the shocks

* Take the car to a mall or other busy parking lot and try parking. Are the sight lines acceptable?

Dont forget to do a lein search to make sure there is no money owing on the vehicle.

Always have an independent mechanic check the vehicle out for you. If the seller is reluctant to let you do this RUN!

And last but not least make sure there is a spare set of keys.

Maximize Your Gas Mileage

Hello and welcome to colin's blog.

You can save a considerable amount of money by purchasing the right vehicle to begin with. Don't buy more vehicle than you need. Before you go shopping decide what you will be using the vehicle for. Pick out three or four models to compare and make your decision after doing your due diligence.

TOP TIPS

1) Keep your windows closed to reduce drag. Set air coditioning or heat to the lowest comfortable setting.

2) Use Cruise Control to maintain constant speed. Continuously accelerating and braking burns more fuel. Stick to the speed limit.

3) Keep Idling to a minimum. If you are waiting for more than 15 seconds turn your engine off then restart when you are ready to go. Instead of wasting your gas skip the drive thru. Park the vehicle and walk in. this will save a little and you will also get the benefit of a little exercize.

4) Keep your car properly maintained, follow the recommended manufacturers maintenance schedule. You will be rewarded for doing the little things like having the oil and air filter replaced.

5) Maintain proper tire inflation and alignment. It will be easier for your vehicle to stay in motion with less effort.

6) Eliminate excess cargo, dont lug around stuff you dont need .

7) Dont make unneccesary trips. If you can plan to take care of two or three errands in one trip the savings will add up quickly.

8) Car Pool to work if possible. Take turns driving children or yourself to activities, hobbies and events.