2014 Forester Latest Subaru to Earn Safety Accolade

Subaru has built up a reputation for delivering reliable, fun to drive, vehicles, and the latest report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety confirms that the "legacy" will continue. The 2014 Subaru Forester recently received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the safety institute, marking a continuing trend for the sporty brand. The 2013 Legacy and Outback were presented with the same title in late 2012, and many other models bearing the Subaru logo can claim the same prestige.

Since 2010, every model to roll off Subaru's production line has earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, and the Forester, Legacy and Outback are the first three to get the Top Safety Pick+ title for earning a "good" score in the small overlap frontal crash test. The standard award is given to vehicles that get high marks in at least four out of the other five tests, regardless of their performance in the small overlap test. This shows that Subaru is placing an added emphasis on improving safety for its drivers and passengers.

Car shoppers in the market for used models that offer the utmost in reliability and safety may want to look into buying a 1- to 3-year-old Subaru. Those who prefer something a bit sportier can choose an Impreza hatchback, while those who place greater emphasis on having plenty of cargo space can look to models like the Forester and Outback. Regardless of which model strikes a driver's fancy, there are plenty of Subarus to choose from at New Jersey Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of used makes and models, which can make it easy to find the right ride to suit any car buyer's needs. Every car, truck and SUV on the lot is also CARFAX certified, so drivers will know they're getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Jeep Wrangler Produces 1 Millionth Model

Whether drivers are off-roading or cruising down the highway, many have looked to the Jeep Wrangler to meet their transportation needs. The vehicle has been a staple of the SUV segment for several years, as well as one of the most popular SUVs, and the car is one of the most recognizable in the world thanks to its unique design. 

The Chrysler Group's Toledo Assembly Complex has been charged with producing all of the Jeep Wranglers, and the site recently reached a significant milestone. On the morning of May 20, it rolled the 1 millionth Wrangler off the line, a sight that was met with fanfare and celebration. The plant's 600 employees were on hand to mark the moment, as were several Chrysler executives. 

The 1 millionth Wrangler was a black 2013 Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition and is bound for Sarasota, Fla.

"Every Jeep Wrangler sold to customers around the world is born in Toledo, Ohio," said Mauro Pino, vice president of the Chrysler Group's vehicle assembly operations. "Since this facility opened eight years ago, the Toledo workforce has built every one of those million vehicles with pride, passion and a focus on quality. We all look forward to building the next million." 

Jeep has been creating vehicles since 1941, but few have made a mark quite like the Wrangler. An iconic design, as well as off-roading capabilities and plenty of customizable touches, has helped to make it a successful venture for the automaker. 

A Jeep Wrangler can be a worthy used car for any driver, but if you're not sure exactly what kind of vehicle you're looking for, head to NJ State Auto Auction. The lot has a wide selection of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that work within a budget to provide the most bang for your buck. 

GM donates to tornado victims in Texas

When recent tornados devastated many regions of Texas, General Motors immediately stepped up to offer assistance. The GM Foundation has pledged to donate $500,000 to Habitat for Humanity, a charity that relies on volunteers to build homes for those in need.

Many people lost their homes and more to the tornados, but GM's donation will help them on their journey to recovery. According to The New York Times, 10 tornados, possibly more, touched down in northern Texas, claiming at least six lives and leaving hundreds of homes in pieces. While the wind tunnels may have passed, the people of the affected Texas towns have a long journey ahead of them.

"Helping Texas residents rebuild and repair their homes is a critical priority for Habitat for Humanity International in the aftermath of recent tornados," GM Foundation Chairman Selim Bingol, vice president of GM Global Communications and Public Policy, said in a statement. "Through the $500,000 grant from the GM Foundation and the recently donated Chevrolet Express Vans, we are helping the organization immediately provide financial and other important resources to those in need."

If you want to donate to a charitable cause, whether you'd like to keep things local and help out with Sandy recovery efforts or reach other to other states, consider donating your current ride if you were planning to get a new one soon anyway.

You can save more money in your budget to help out by opting to buy a used car instead of a new one. New Jersey State Auto Auction carries a wide selection of affordable, pre-owned makes and models. Plus, every vehicle is backed by CARFAX, making it easy to find a reliable ride that suits your needs without breaking the bank.

Price Of Used Fisker Cars Falling Rapidly

The Fisker Karma was once a model of supreme luxury. It remains a top vehicle for motorists who want to look like high-rollers, but a recent string of problems with both the cars and the company itself is causing prices to decrease at a rapid rate. 

Fisker is facing plenty of issues that are impacting prices. According to AutoBlog, it has already laid off many of its employees and spent nearly $200 million in federal loans, and the company will likely be sold if it can find a suitor. With so much turmoil going on, many Karma owners are trying to unload their automobiles, but they aren't finding a very hospitable market. 

Although many drivers invested a lot of money in a Fisker Karma when the vehicle was at the top of the proverbial heap, the current market value for the car may be difficult for these motorists to swallow. The cars, which once commanded more than $100,000, are now selling for, at best, about 60 percent of their worth, Top Speed reports. 

"I think they are upset initially when they find out what the market is," Bill Michlin, a car dealer, told NBC News. "They know why it is and where it is, but they didn't realize it would be so low for the car." 

Dropping prices may not be good news for current owners, but it is positive for those who are shopping for a used vehicle. There are dozens of Fisker Karma models now for sale, many of them at prices that are significantly less than they would be ordinarily. 

If you're in the market for a used car, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction for a wide selection of cars, trucks and vans. The lot is filled with CARFAX-certified vehicles that can serve drivers looking for any type of pre-owned automobile. 

States Changing Yellow Lights To Ticket More Drivers

The yellow traffic light can be a driver's worst nightmare. Decisions about speeding up, slamming on the brakes or trying your luck with red light cameras abound whenever you approach an intersection, but some drivers in Florida recently had to face an even more difficult situation. Municipalities throughout the state shortened the length of yellow lights below the standards given by the U.S. Department of Transportation, with some people claiming they did so with the intent of ticketing more drivers, AutoBlog reports. 

"Red light cameras are a for-profit business between cities and camera companies and the state," James Walker, executive director of the National Motorists Association, told WTSP News. "The [rule change] was done, I believe, deliberately in order that more tickets would be given with yellows set deliberately too short." 

The change, which has been in effect since 2011, only reduced the times by fractions of a second. However, even a half-second decrease in time could double the amount of fines handed out because of red light cameras, the news source reports. Although this specific study focused on Florida, it wouldn't be surprising to see similar issues crop up in others places around the U.S. as states try to supplement their funds with revenue from red light cameras. 

No matter how long yellow lights last for, drivers in any state need to ensure their vehicle's brakes, tail lights, blinkers and other equipment are functioning properly. You can take a car to the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction for a tune up that checks out all of these areas and more. When you know everything is in working condition, you'll feel more confident as you approach situations at intersections or with heavy traffic. 

Hybrids Offer Great Value For Drivers On A Budget

Hybrids are quickly becoming one of the most popular vehicle segments on the market. Cars.com surveyed the field of hybrids available and selected the best value purchases for drivers to help shoppers looking for green cars narrow their search. These models offer great fuel economy for a low price tag, making it easy and affordable for many people to take advantage of these automobiles. 

"Gas prices remain volatile, so as shoppers consider more fuel-efficient options, they should know how effectively hybrids deliver gas mileage for their dollar – if they do at all," said Joe Wiesenfelder, executive editor of Cars.com. "Simply because a hybrid gets great gas mileage doesn't necessarily mean you save money in the long run, because that same hybrid comes with a higher price tag. To determine if the added expenses are worth the cash, we analyzed overall cost compared to the car's efficiency."

Hybrids are available in many different sizes and in an array of styles, so drivers can find one that suits them. The Toyota Prius earned accolades as a subcompact car, while the Honda Insight and Lexus RX 450h were recognized for being a superb compact car and luxury SUV, respectively. The Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid won among vehicles in the pickup truck segment. 

Other models that Cars.com selected as being the best of the best include the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Acura ILX Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid, to name a few. 

At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can shop around for hybrids, cars, trucks, SUVs and everything in between. The lot is filled with CARFAX certified vehicles that can act as a great used car for any driver. Many of the automobiles boast excellent fuel economy and other features that create a superior driving experience for anyone behind the wheel. 

Consumer Credit Levels Improve In April

There's good news for people who need a little financial help to help them purchase a used car. The first few months of 2013 have seen some of the strongest credit health since the recession, giving more individuals access to automobiles than the same time last year. 

In fact, one auto leasing website had more than 77 percent of its customers achieve credit approvals in April, which is up from 70 percent in March. The total approval rating for the first four months of 2013 sits at 73.6 percent – significantly higher than the 57.5 percent rating during the same time period in 2012 and the 68.3 percent approval in 2011. Although this is just one site's data, it does reflect an improvement in the overall market. 

"The automotive industry has continued to grow in 2013, with new sales expected to be marginally higher than 2012 levels," said Scot Hall, executive vice president of a car leasing marketplace. "Above this, key economic factors such as continued job growth, low gas prices and a healing housing market have all helped personal credit levels, allowing more consumers with credit approvals." 

Getting a credit approval is just the first step toward investing in a vehicle, but it's one of the most important processes to complete. Having your finances in order can get you closer to driving the car of your dreams – as long as you continue to shop smart. 

If you're in the market for an affordable used car, you may want to check out the selection of CARFAX certified vehicles at NJ State Auto Auction. With cars, trucks and vans available on site, drivers will be able to choose the perfect automobile for their needs without breaking the bank. 

Hit The Road To Improve Relationships

It takes a special kind of couple to navigate the challenges that a travel experience brings, and many are choosing to face these issues head on with a road trip. At the end of the day, however, most of these lovebirds are finding that only good things come about from a highway adventure. 

A new survey from Ford and the dating site YourTango.com found that road trips are a great way for people to grow closer to their significant other. Approximately 90 percent of couples who have taken these vacations with their partners say it ultimately strengthened the relationship, and as many as 77 percent of those people look forward to taking a similar trip again. 

When couples decide to embark on a road trip, many get behind the wheel of a sedan. A comfortable interior and better mileage are among the main reasons sedans outrank their larger counterparts when it comes to being the car of choice for lovebirds. 

"More and more couples are taking road trips due to the high cost of airfare, and because it gives you the opportunity to take your vehicle with you to explore new places," said Ford Fusion marketing manager Samantha Hoyt. "We're excited most couples choose a sedan to travel in, and we've designed the Fusion to meet the needs of couples who enjoy getaways by providing an inviting and comfortable interior in a car that is really fun to drive." 

Whether you need the perfect car to use for a road trip or just want to get a tune up at a local garage, you can find what you're looking for at New Jersey Auto Auction. The Total Car Care Center can provide professional maintenance that will have your vehicle ready for a long road trip, and you can also browse the selection of CARFAX certified cars, vans and trucks to find just the right ride for your adventures. 

Stay Safe While Driving With Pets

Taking a road trip can be a great experience, especially if you get to share it with someone close to you. Occasionally, these friends can be of the canine variety, and getting behind the wheel with your pet in tow can lead to  an adventure of a lifetime. 

NBC News reports that pets can play a major role in distracted driving, which contributes to accidents and poor decision making on the roads. Pets in the car can interfere with the actual driving of the car, as well as sight lines and general focus, but that doesn't have to deter people from taking trips with their animal companions. As long as motorists follow a few guidelines for safety, they should be able to enjoy fantastic road trips with their pets. 

Keeping an emergency pet kit in the car with items such as extra water, treats, towels and waste bags, is essential. You never know when your schedule will get derailed by traffic or a different kind of surprising situation, so having some key supplies on hand can go a long way in keeping you and your pet healthy, happy and safe. 

Similarly, getting pets used to riding in the car – and staying in the backseat whenever possible – can make the process safer. Working up to longer road trips is a must, so it's important to take the time to get them acclimated to a vehicle and to make sure the car is in a condition to handle the pet. 

To properly prep your vehicle for a road trip – with or without your beloved pet – bring it in for a tune up at the Total Car Care Center at New Jersey State Auto Auction. There technicians can look at all aspects of the car and make sure you're ready to hit the road with any kind of companion. 

Ferrari Owned by John Lennon Going Up for Auction

Anyone who grew up in the 1950s and beyond has likely heard the name John Lennon, and now those who have a special place in their hearts for the former Beatle have the chance to bid on his first car. Lennon purchased a 1965 Ferrari 330GT 2+2 Coupe with an Azzuro blue paint job and a matching blue interior in February 1965. Lennon had just gotten his driver's license, and a caravan of cars arrived at his gated home in Surrey, England. He chose the Ferrari, which he owned until late 1967.

"It is a wonderful commentary on the early excitement generated by 'Beatlemania' that John Lennon didn't even have to leave his house to buy his first car," said Sholto Gilbertson, a senior specialist in the Bonhams Motor Car Department. "We are delighted to be offering a car associated with such an icon of contemporary popular culture at the first of our Goodwood series of auctions in 2013."

After Lennon parted with his ride, it got a red paint job in the 80s, but has since been restored to its original splendor. In addition to being owned by such a legendary cultural figurehead, the car is one of only 500 of its kind. Experts at the Bonhams U.K. auction house estimate that it could bring in anywhere between £180,000 and £220,000 (about $277,000 to $339,000).

While most drivers are likely not going to bid on this noteworthy car, that doesn't mean they can't get a ride of their own that is just as special. Those in the New York/New Jersey area can check out the selection of makes and models available at NJ State Auto Auction. Every car, truck and SUV on the lot is CARFAX certified, ensuring drivers they'll be getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.