Car FAQ's - Answering Car FAQ's

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Buying a car can be a pretty daunting task. When we finally make the decision to purchase a vehicle, it is important to have thoroughly done our homework. There is no substitute for performing research and a complete analysis of all aspects of the car you want to buy. For those seeking additional assistance, we offer these answers to some common and frequently asked questions:

What information do I need to get an auto insurance policy?

• VINÂ’s for each car to be insured
• Loan or lease information if you are leasing or still paying your car off
• License numbers for each driver you are insuring (it's best to have the numbers of all licensed drivers in your household)
• The social security number of the main policyholder
• A copy of your current auto insurance policy
• All necessary banking details

How old do I have to be to rent a car?
The average age for most renting agencies is 21 years old. Many companies will charge an extra fee if you are under 25 years of age.

Which is better - new or used autos?
When deciding whether to buy new or used, you need to take the following factors into account:

• The purchase price of a new car will cost more
• Some vehicles depreciate at a faster rate than others. A slower rate of depreciation results in a higher resale value.
• A used car more often than not needs more maintenance and repairs than a new one. Used cars also sometimes have a higher rate of fuel consumption.
• The average annual cost will decrease the longer you own a vehicle as financing and operating costs are spread out over a longer period of time.
• New auto loans usually have lower interest rates than those of used autos.

What kind of car should I buy?
The type of motor vehicle you buy should depend on how capable it is of fulfilling the role for which it is intended. You should also be able to afford it and all its running costs. Will you be driving long distances and need a car with good fuel consumption? Do you spend a lot of time in it every day and therefore have a need for comfort? All such questions should be considered before deciding what kind of car to buy.

Should I get Petrol or Diesel?
A car with a diesel engine will usually use half the amount of fuel as the same car with a petrol engine. Thus, diesel is usually more economical, though they do tend to generate more noise and smoke than a petrol vehicle. Gasoline engines normally deliver more power and are quieter and quicker than diesel cars. When a diesel car runs out of fuel, it requires much effort to get the vehicle going again. If considering a diesel vehicle, always check that the battery and timing belt are in excellent condition.

Does color make a difference?
Generally, the choice of color is determined on personal preference. However some colors do cost more than others. White - as it is a standard color - is usually the cheapest.

What should I look out for when buying a used car?
Kicking the tire is more of a joke than anything else and could even signal incompetence to some sellers. When looking to buy a used car, you should begin by looking for any small signs of damage or rust. Check that everything works, such as the windows, seat belts, radio, gears, air-con, etc. Look at the paint job. If there are slight variations in color a large repair might have been done. Also open the gas receptacle and examine it for putty or dents. If there is any present, the vehicle likely was involved in a large accident and should not be purchased as it is more likely to give problems.

When buying from a dealership, ask for a warranty. They will likely know the quality of the vehicle they are selling and their actions will be a good indication as to whether or not you should purchase the car.

Always get the car checked out by your own, trusted mechanic. Do this without putting down a deposit incase any major faults are found. It will likely cost you to get this done, but will save you more money in the long run.

Ask questions and note the reply. If a person skirts around the issue they are likely hiding something and cannot be trusted.

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