Monthly Archives: February 2012

Cars of Movie History

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Posted in Celebrity Auto News

The Academy Awards honored some of the best actors in the business on Sunday night, and although the spotlight was on the human players, General Motors did not pass up the opportunity to tout its impact on cinematic history. The venerable auto manufacturer has long had an impact on movies, and this year was no different.

The most well-known current movies to feature GM products are the Transformers franchise. These three films have prominently included classic American-made cars – most notably a yellow Chevrolet Camaro. The most recent movie, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, was even up for three Academy Awards including Best Visual Effects.

In previous years, classic movies such as American Graffiti, Batman and even Smokey and the Bandit all had GM cars prominently included in the plot. It's no surprise that vehicles had such a significant role in cinematic history, according to  Elliot Wilhelm, the film curator for the Detroit Institute of Arts.

"Cars have a lot in common with movies, and there is an often an emotional connection between the audience and the featured car," he said. "You often hear audible groans or see cringes form the audience when a beautiful car is destroyed in a movie."

While you may not be able to get behind the wheel of the Batmobile or a Camaro that transforms into an alien-fighting robot, New Jersey State Auto Auction can still offer you a variety of used cars that are out of this world. With plenty of makes and models at affordable prices, there is something for everyone. Additionally, thanks to a partnership with the Credit Acceptance Corporation, getting a loan is easier than ever before.

Check Fluid Levels for Safe Spring Driving

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Posted in How To

Spring is just around the corner, and drivers need to start thinking about de-winterizing their vehicles. This is one step many may forget, but it is important to make sure a vehicle did not suffer any damage during the harsh winter months. Cleaning the car can be a good place to start, as it can make the vehicle gleam like new. Plus, removing all the road salt residue and debris that may have accumulated over the winter will help preserve the paint job.

The spring is also a good time to check the oil, transmission, steering, coolant and brake fluids. Oil should be a clear, golden color. If you remove the dipstick and the fluid is dirty or dark in color, you may want to have the oil changed. Low levels could indicate it's time for a change as well.

This also holds true for other liquids in your vehicle. Transmission fluid can be a few different colors, typically green or red, but if it has a rusty hue, you may need to have the system flushed. Coolant, which is typically green, can also be other bright colors, such as pink, blue or yellow. If you see this fluid on your driveway, you may have a coolant leak. This should be addressed immediately to avoid overheating the engine.

Drivers can take their cars to New Jersey Auto Auction's Total Car Care center for routine tuneups. Located in Jersey City and open to the public, this automotive service center can handle any maintenance and repairs your car may need to run smoothly this spring. Even if you're not sure whether it's time to get the oil changed, the experts at NJ Auto will know what your car needs.

Buying Fuel-Efficient Cars May Not Be Best to Combat Rising Gas Prices

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Posted in Uncategorized

Gas prices are climbing steadily, and many drivers may soon look to trade in their current cars for more fuel-efficient models. According to AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report, the current national average for a gallon of regular gas is just under $3.70, which is about 10 cents higher than the average at the start of the weekend. Time Magazine reports these prices are likely to continue increasing, but when the cost of fuel rises, the price tags on smaller, economic vehicles may do the same.

Conversely, dealers tend to offer better deals on larger vehicles when this occurs. Drivers thinking about making a switch may want to figure out if the added cost of a smaller vehicle is worth what they could save at the pump. It may be more economical to hang on to their current vehicle or invest in an SUV if they need the space anyway.

"Historically, gas prices have to spike to change consumers' habits," Rebecca Lindland, an IHS automotive analyst, told The Wall Street Journal. "Even then, the change lasts only three to four months before they adapt to the higher prices. If that old SUV is paid for, running well and not costing a lot to maintain, you're going to keep it."

Drivers in the market for fuel-efficient vehicles or larger SUVs and trucks can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which offers a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices. Those looking to improve the fuel economy of their current cars can drive them to Jersey City where the experts at NJ Auto's Total Car Care center can perform routine maintenance, change the oil and address any repairs. A car that runs well will consume less gas and help drivers save at the pump.

How to Improve Gas Mileage as Fuel Prices Rise

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Posted in How To

With many analysts predicting the average price of gas may hit $4 a gallon in the near future, it's more important than ever for drivers to be as fuel-efficient as possible. Though cars have improved gas mileage over years past, there are still a number of ways you can help get the most out of your car.

"There are several easy things drivers can do to stretch each tank of gas and find the lowest fuel prices when it is time to fill up," said Marshall L. Doney, the AAA national vice president of automotive, financial services and e-Business.

Among the easiest ways to save on gas is to make sure your tires are properly inflated. Still, despite the known benefits of having tires filled to the right levels, only 17 percent of drivers have all four tires sufficiently inflated. To check the proper levels, look at the manual or on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb, AAA says.

How you drive can have a significant impact on how much you spend at the pump as well. For example, driving at or around the speed limit can save you a substantial amount. The U.S. Department of Energy found that for every 5 mph driven over the speed limit it's like you're paying 24 cents more a gallon.

Similarly,  going easy on the brake and gas pedals will save money as well. By not starting and stopping so harshly you could improve mileage by as much as 33 percent, according to AAA.

Regular maintenance is also a must when it comes to improving your gas mileage. To ensure your car is running smoothly you may want to visit New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Care Care center. Open to the public, the center provides everything from repairs to general upkeep.

Volkswagen Reports Successful 2011

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Posted in General Auto News

The results are in for 2011 and it looks like last year was especially good to Volkswagen. The German automaker says that it more than doubled its profits last year and its global sales rose an impressive 14.7 percent, according to The Detroit Bureau.

The improved sales figures are indicative of Volkwagen's shifting focus toward becoming a global power in the auto industry. For instance, it has placed an emphasis on emerging markets such as China. It also set its sights on the United States, where it is expected to release an all-new mid-size Passat specifically for the country.

To fully appreciate the sales boost Volkswagen had in 2011, one need look no further than where it ranked among the world's automakers. Its 7.2 million vehicles sold put it in second place – ahead of longtime number one car company Toyota – and behind only General Motors, which experienced a resurgence of its own as the economy improved slightly, the news source reports.

Another good indicator of the upward trend VW is experiencing is how well it fared against European competition. Sales rose 11 percent in its native Germany, while it had a 7 percent jump in the rest of Western Europe.

"We know the car business is a volume and scale business and today Volkswagen is the only carmaker in Europe that has that scale," Philippe Houchois, head of European auto industry research at UBS in London, told The New York Times.

Whether you're looking to get behind the wheel of a used Volkswagen or would prefer an American-made vehicle, New Jersey State Auto Auction is the place to go. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, there is something for everyone.

Industry Experts Expect Auto Sales to Improve in February

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Posted in Auto Industry News

Since the fourth quarter of 2011, industry experts have been predicting sales improvements for 2012, and the latest J.D. Power and Associates monthly report indicates the predictions are right so far. The update projects that new-vehicle sales are expected to reach about 857,400 units by the end of February, which is a 5 percent improvement over the same month last year.

"Retail light-vehicle sales in February are strong, which makes us modestly optimistic about the growth of sales going forward," said John Humphrey, senior vice president of global automotive operations for J.D Power. "We're increasingly confident that the fundamentals are in place to continue to support an upbeat sector outlook for the coming year."

Improvements from last year were even stronger for used cars, which may be as much as 16.5 percent higher than February 2011, according to recent TrueCar.com predictions. In fact Jesse Toprak, vice president of industry trends and insights for the automotive website, said he expects automotive sales to reach 14 million units by the end of the year. Until now, experts have projected the totals to reach between 13.6 and 13.8 million units.

Toprak also expects to see a 20 percent surge in sales of fuel-efficient compact cars and hybrid models, such as the Ford Focus and Honda Civic Hybrid, throughout the year. In February at least, used vehicles sales are predicted to outweigh those of new cars two-to-one. Those looking to get behind the wheel of a used vehicle this year can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. Whether you want a fuel-efficient gas-powered car like the Focus, or you'd prefer to drive a hybrid, NJ Auto has plenty of affordable options.

Hyundai Sales Improve, Prices Increase

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Hyundai has been climbing the ranks of the automotive industry to become one of the best-selling brands in America. Since the brand is building a new, reliable image and shedding its former reputation for supplying vehicles with questionable quality, its sales are rapidly growing and so are the prices, according to USA Today.

"They really changed people's minds," Jessica Caldwell, an Edmunds.com analyst, told the publication. "It's a turning point for the brand but it's a long process that's not over yet."

For example, the Elantra, which was named the 2012 North American Car of the Year, is one of the products helping to reinvent the brand's image, but the news source reports it may be more expensive than some of its competitors. In fact, the average price paid for an Elantra in 2011 was about $19,711, which is about $1,500 more than what consumers paid for the Toyota Corolla.

New cars typically lose about 10 to 20 percent of their resale value the moment they are driven off the lot. Used vehicles on the other hand do not depreciate as quickly. They also tend to cost less than new versions.

Those looking to get behind the wheel of a used Hyundai Elantra, Sonata or other compact vehicles need look no further than New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer offers a wide variety of used vehicles from smaller, fuel-efficient models like the Toyota Corolla or the Honda Civic. All of the models are CARFAX certified, so drivers know they'll be driving away in a dependable set of wheels.

KBB: Seriously Consider Fuel-Efficiency as Gas Prices Rise

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Posted in General Auto News

Gas prices have been on the rise over the last several weeks, and some experts predict the increases won't stop any time soon. With the average gallon of gas costing close to $4, anybody considering buying a used car may want to heavily weigh the importance of fuel-economy on their next purchase, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) advises.

The national average price currently stands at $3.59 a gallon and buying a fuel-efficient used car may be a great way to save money over the next several months, as gas prices could reach near-record levels. Analysts at KBB say an increase of $1 per gallon could cost consumers who drive a car that gets 20 miles-per-gallon an average of $11.50 each week. Though it might not seem like a lot, it could make a big difference.

"While in today's economic environment many families are on an extremely tight budget and $11.50 per week may be enough to break the bank," said Alec Gutierrez, the senior market analyst of automotive insights for KBB.

Of course, there are some cars that are better choices than others for people looking to get behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient car. For instance, the Toyota Camry has been a longtime favorite and its new hybrid model gets an impressive 41 miles per gallon on the highway. Other good options include a used Ford Fiesta or Hyundai Accent, which not only provide optimal fuel-efficiency but also are affordable options.

Those looking for a small used car might want to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealership offers shoppers a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, and with guaranteed credit approval everyone can walk out with a new ride.

Which New Cars Rose the Most in Price?

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Posted in General Auto News

By most accounts the auto market seems to be improving, but there are still some new cars that will cost more in 2012. There is a large swath of models that will be more expensive, from American-made cars to foreign imports, and may be a good indicator of why consumers should visit New Jersey State Auto Auction for a used car instead.

At the top of the list was the Hyundai Azera. According to USA Today, the price of the mid-size sedan jumped a substantial 25 percent compared to its 2011 cost. A 2012 Azera will cost consumers about $32,000 which is up considerably from last year's sticker price of $25,495. Although it comes complete with some new features and some experts say it is much better off, that's still a pretty serious jump.

The Azera may have seen the steepest rise in price, but it was not the only one. Longtime consumer favorite the Volkswagen Jetta also made the list with a 9.6 percent raise in costs from $21,395 2011 to $23,445 in 2012.  As for American-made cars, the GMC Canyon had the biggest increase, going from $30,005 to $31,790 – a 5.9 percent jump.

If you're not interested in paying a high price for your preferred vehicle, a used Ford or Chevy may be the better option. According to AutoTrader, you can get a lot of great vehicles for under 10,000 including the 2004 Ford Mustang and 2005 Honda Civic.

New Jersey State Auto Auction has a wide variety of makes and models at your disposal, and not only are they affordable, but because they are CARFAX certified you know you're getting a reliable vehicle.

Interest Rates Continue Downward Trend

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

Out of all the indicators of an improved economy, the recent findings from Experian may be the best for people looking to buy a used car. Analysts say that interest rates for new and used vehicles continued their downward slide and are currently at their lowest rates in more than three years.

Along with lower interest rates, which dropped to an average of 4.52 percent, Experian found that in the fourth quarter of 2011, lenders continued to be more likely to approve loans to nonprime, subprime and deep subrpime customers. The report is good news for people who may be driving on a set of wheels nearing the end of its life.

"The improved automotive lending market is good news for consumers in the market to buy a vehicle," said Melinda Zabritski, the director of automotive lending at Experian Automotive. "The confluence of low interest rates, longer loan terms and an increase in loans outside of prime provide a great opportunity for more people to find a vehicle that suits their needs."

Not only are lenders approving more applicants, but consumers are doing their part as well. Loan delinquencies dropped considerably during the final quarter of 2011. The 30-day rate fell 6.57 percent compared to the same period in 2010, and the 60-day rate dropped an impressive 9.51 percent.

One place nobody will have trouble getting a loan is New Jersey State Auto Auction. Thanks to a partnership with the Credit Acceptance Corporation, New Jersey Auto is able to offer guaranteed credit approval. With a large fleet of reliable used cars at affordable price, you'll be driving away with a new ride into time.