How To Handle Pothole Damage Like A Pro

Drivers on the East Coast have a lot of obstacles to overcome. Not only do they have to navigate tough winters, but they must deal with the after-effects of this season as well. In many regions, this includes driving on streets loaded with potholes. 

How potholes are formed
Potholes are a common sight in the spring. That's unsurprising, as the divots are typically caused by water that seeps into the pavement, which is unavoidable in the spring as snow and ice melts. According to Hankook Tires Quarterly Gauge Index, about 37 percent of Americans stated that there were more potholes in 2014 than the year before, and 2015 is projected to be even worse. 

Potholes can cause a lot of damage to your car. Potholes can cause a lot of damage to your car.

Potholes form when water soaks into the road surface and into the ground below the cement, where it freezes again should the temperature drop. This ice expands and pushes the pavement up, leading to permanent shifts in the roadway that eventually give way to potholes. The only solution is to resurface the affected area. 

Driving protocol for potholes

"How should you react to a pothole when behind the wheel?"

You can report potholes to the state or local government in the hopes that they will be repaired in a timely manner. However, it may take a while before you're back to riding smoothly on the roads, so it helps to know how to effectively avoid potholes. Despite this fact, the Quarterly Gauge Index found that only 14 percent of U.S. drivers know how to approach the pothole problem. Additionally, more than half of these motorists regularly engage in practices that could be doing more harm than good. 

So how should you react to a pothole behind the wheel? To start, don't swerve. Moving your car around wildly and suddenly can lead to major collisions, especially on busy streets. Your best course of action is to slow the car as you approach the divot. Stay in your lane to increase your personal safety and simply reduce your speed, which limits the force at which your car careens into the pothole. 

Drivers should also learn how to handle the side effects of running through a pothole. It's common to see damage to tires and the car's suspension, so you should be able to conduct a spot check of these aspects after you hit one of the obstacles. Professionals can handle most of the serious work, but it's up to you to monitor the vehicle's performance and note when an expert may be needed. 

You have options
Have you experienced damage due to a pothole? You aren't out of options. Minor problems can be reported to the government as part of an insurance claim, but more significant damage may necessitate the purchase of a used car. If that's the case, head to NJ State Auto to browse through a wide selection of Carfax-certified vehicles. There, you'll be able to locate just the right car for you at what's sure to be a friendly price. 

3 Tests To Evaluate Used Cars

Not all used car dealerships are honest. While the team at New Jersey State Auto Auction may be dedicated to getting you behind the wheel of a car you can trust, other sellers are more interested in your cash. It’s these less-than-reputable dealers who may try to employ scams or tricks to convince you to invest in a low-quality car. 

“Spot used car schemes before they get you.”

But you aren’t without power. All you have to do is arm yourself with a bit of knowledge and you’ll be poised to spot the schemes before they get you. Here are three tests you can conduct as you’re browsing a used car selection to make sure a vehicle is in good shape. While these examinations won’t catch everything, they do act as a way to spot some of the most common cover-ups in the industry. 

1. The Magnet Test
You can determine if a car has had any shoddy repairs with the help of the magnet test. Consumer Reports recommended prospective buyers complete the simple process to make sure the frame of a vehicle is safe, and it’s pretty easy to do. Take a magnet and run it across a vehicle’s doors and fenders. In most cases, the magnet should be attracted to these spots. If it doesn’t stick, it could be a sign of body filler or some other subpar patch. 

2. The Sniff Test 
Odors can signify a lot of things going on with a car. While most drivers would love to inhale that new car smell every time they sit behind the wheel, the reality is they may sniff something that indicates damage. Check the interior and the trunk for any out-of-place aromas. It’s a good idea to brush up on some of the most common smells before hitting the lot to easily identify problems. For example, a musty or damp odor is often a warning sign of water damage, whereas the stench of rotten eggs might indicate problems with the engine. 

A quick sniff in a car's interior could identify a potential problem. A quick sniff in a car’s interior could identify a potential problem.

3. The Tailpipe Test 
Take a look at the car’s tailpipe. Most people might not give this a second thought, but you should set aside a few seconds to scope out the gear. All you have to do is take a peek at the tailpipe and determine how dirty it is. Should there be any type of build up present, such as black gunk or grease, it’s a sign that the engine is burning oil. That’s not how a car should run, and although there may not be any major damage, it’s still a repair that needs to be taken care of as soon as possible. 

Of course, a great way to avoid used car scams is to bring your business to a reputable facility. NJ State Auto is one such auction lot. You can browse through hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans to find one that’s a perfect fit. 

Long Auto Loans Becoming The Norm

It doesn't take a genius to realize that cars are expensive. Even the best deals on used cars can cost thousands of dollars, which means many people are left needing some help to make ends meet. Luckily, there are plenty of financing options for prospective drivers – as long as they aren't afraid of commitment. 

Shopping for a used car also means hunting for the right financing option.Shopping for a used car also means hunting for the right financing option.

The need for longer loans
Many people are using long-term loans to pay for vehicles. These contracts frequently extend for 60 months or more, which allows borrowers to keep monthly payments low even if there's a high total sum. Although some may be concerned about being saddled with a loan for this extended period, more are willing to make this sacrifice in exchange for special features and upgrades available on certain models. 

"Consumers are demanding a lot more technology in their vehicles, infotainment technologies," Ed Kim, an analyst with AutoPacific, told NPR. "There's also a lot more safety features that are in vehicles right now. Emissions and efficiency technology that are in vehicles right now, that are making vehicles cost a lot more."

The thought of having a loan for years is daunting for some, but in today's economic landscape, many people view it as the norm. A spokesperson for Experian Automotive told NPR that these agreements often make sense for drivers on tight budgets and are specifically chosen for the benefits they provide. 

Understanding the basics
Cars.com noted that people tend to "payment shop" with car loans more than any other product. That means most drivers are willing to look around for the right deal and make some concessions to find the right balance of car quality and payments. However, anyone who wants to do this must come to terms with a few simple facts. 

For example, interest rates on long-term loans tend to be higher than those associated with shorter agreements. While the individual payments remain affordable, the total amount of interest paid will likely be greater. This fact turns some people off from longer loans, but for others, it's merely a necessary part of securing the perfect used car. 

People are willing to negotiate to secure the perfect long-term car loan. People are willing to negotiate to secure the perfect long-term car loan.

The right facility makes all the difference
If there's still more you want to learn or if you're ready to commit to a vehicle, then you need to head to the right facility. Consider starting your journey at NJ State Auto Auction. Our lot contains hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans that are just waiting for the right owner, and you can get behind the wheel quickly and easily with the help of an auto loan.

We even have an in-house financing department, which is composed of individuals ready and able to secure you the best possible loan. They can even answer any remaining questions you may have about long-term loans. With guaranteed credit approval and same-day processing, these experts will have you driving off the lot with your dream car in no time. 

Focus On Car Health This Spring

Winter may not be the most fun season, especially when you consider how the weather wreaks havoc on your car. Snow and ice increases the risk of accidents, road salt rusts the exterior, and freezing temperatures may cause damage to other parts of the car. All of that makes driving in spring particularly precarious, especially when the rains come, the ice melts and roads get slick. 

Rebounding from the winter
Many drivers decide to celebrate the return of spring with a road trip to warmer climes. That's a great way to get back into the swing of good weather, but it can place a lot of stress on your car. Odds are your vehicle needs a little care before racking up the miles, which makes a tune-up or professional check a priority. 

"Spring break time is finally here. While jumping in the car and heading to a warmer climate may sound like a great idea, don't forget to make sure your car is road ready before you go," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "A pre-trip vehicle check will give you peace of mind because you can take steps to have any needed repairs performed before you go."

Make sure your car can handle the road before heading on a springtime trip. Make sure your car can handle the road before heading on a springtime trip.

How to avoid breakdowns
Preventing breakdowns doesn't have to be difficult. Most problems can be avoided with a few simple repairs or updates. The Car Care Council recommended drivers take a look at the brakes to ensure they are operating at a high level. You'll need these gears to be working so you can come to full stops on wet spring roads and respond quickly to wild animals or other road obstacles. 

Next, be sure to check under the hood to guarantee all belts, hoses and tubes are intact. Cold temperatures can make some of these materials brittle and could lead to tears or fraying. If one of these breaks completely, it could leave you stranded, but it's easily avoided with a little forethought and a fast replacement. While you're at it, examine the gas cap and fluid levels in the automobile. Refilling any liquids and checking for leaks is a quick task that can prevent major issues later on, according to the Car Care Council. 

Don't be stuck with a broken-down car this season. Don't be stuck with a broken-down car this season.

"Even the most vigilant car maintenance won't help if your ride is past its prime."

Get a fresh start this spring
Even the most vigilant car maintenance won't help if your ride is too far past its prime. If you've had it with costly repairs, aggravating breakdowns and subpar driving performances, it's probably time to embrace a new beginning and get behind the wheel of a used car. 

New Jersey State Auto boasts a wide selection of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, any of which could be perfect for you. Purchasing one of these high-quality vehicles doesn't have to break the bank either. Our facility has an in-house financing department that can help you secure an auto loan or credit approval quickly and easily.

Report: Auto Loans Remain Safe And Strong

Many people need auto loans to complete the purchase of a used car. That's especially true for subprime buyers, or those who may not have credit scores as high as they would like. While many of these drivers may initially think a quality vehicle is outside of their budget, the prevalence of subprime auto loans changes the landscape. 

Subprime borrowers have many options when it comes to securing auto loans. Subprime borrowers have many options when it comes to securing auto loans.

Auto bubble won't burst, says study
LendingTree, an online loan marketplace, recently released a study detailing the state of auto financing in the U.S. According to the report, the average credit score for people with car loans increased by 10 points throughout 2014, even as the number of subprime loans grew. Although the sheer volume of outstanding loans is increasing, lenders are still being careful about who gets these financing options – which ultimately means the so-called "auto bubble" isn't going to burst. 

"Our data does not substantiate the likelihood of an upcoming crisis," said Rick Finch, the general manager of LendingTree Autos. "While the current concern over subprime auto loans that end up defaulting is reminiscent of the mortgage meltdown stemming from mortgage backed securities, the defaults are being monitored and controlled by the lending market. Although auto backed securities increasingly contain subprime loans, loan defaults are not rising at a rate that signal imminent danger." 

"Lenders are more accepting of subprime borrowers."

Loans are growing, but so is safety
Some borrowers may hesitate after hearing the total sum of auto-related debt. According to The Fiscal Times, Americans currently have $886 billion in outstanding car loans, which is almost 23 percent higher than it was two years ago. Although the numbers sound daunting, all of this growth is good news for potential buyers. Lenders are more accepting subprime borrowers, connecting them with loans that get them behind the wheel. 

There are also many opportunities for borrowers to save money over the course of their car ownership. The Fiscal Times noted that interest rates are low, at least compared to recent history, and gas prices are declining compared to the past few years as well. 

Finding a perfect match
This steady market makes it the ideal time to buy used cars, even if you need the help of an auto loan to make it happen. Check out the wide selection of used cars at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Not only does this lot have hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles, but it also boasts an in-house financing department that can help you secure the loan you need to afford a car. 

March Is A Good Month For Used Car Shoppers

Is now the time to act on a used car deal? If you've been thinking about purchasing a vehicle, you may want to get serious, as this month could be a good one for prospective buyers thanks to a combination of nice weather and lower prices. 

A harsh winter gives way to spring
The NADA Used Car Guide noted that this past winter was harsh, especially throughout the month of February. The East Coast was pummeled with snow and ice, in addition to frigid temperatures, which made it hard for some car lots to move merchandise. 

"Since the inclement weather possibly prevented dealers from attending auctions – and customers from commuting to dealer lots – demand wasn't as strong as it usually is in February," said Jonathan Banks, an executive analyst with the NADA Used Car Guide. "As a result, prices were almost a full percentage point lower than the historical average we've tracked since 1996 … consumers should know the savings trend won't last for long, as pent-up demand and tax refund checks will fuel spring season purchases."

Know the segments
According to the NADA Used Car Guide's March report, used luxury vehicles suffered the most from the winter season. The segment saw values decline by an average of 0.5 percent, with luxury compacts dropping 1 full percentage point. Other options you may be interested in, such as non-luxury compact cars or midsize SUVs, experienced a small increase of 0.7 percent. That's about half of the original prediction, the Used Car Guide reported.  

Overall, the jump in used car prices was relatively consistent across all segments. There was also an increase in the volume of used cars, meaning shoppers have plenty of choices to consider without bashing their budgets. More options may be hitting the market soon as well. Eager drivers may be ready to ditch their older models in favor of some fresher vehicles this spring. 

Shop smart 
Are you convinced yet? March may be the perfect time to get behind the wheel of that used car you've had your eye on, but you need to be smart about your purchase. Start by turning to a lot you can trust, like New Jersey State Auto Auction. This facility boasts hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, providing you with a wide selection at prices you can afford. 

5 Areas To Research Before Buying A Used Car

Used cars are a valuable commodity. Not only do they provide a way for people to get where they need to be, but the vehicles are often a smart financial investment. Before you take the leap, however, you need to be sure you're purchasing the right car. This starts with lots of preliminary research. Below are five areas you should look into prior to signing off on a purchase. 

1. The seller's website
The first place you should go to conduct research is the seller's official website. For NJ State Auto Auction, for example, you can go online and browse through the full collection of used cars for sale. Look over the hundreds of Carfax-certified cars, trucks and vans to find a few options that pique your interest. Then you can plan for test drives and get a head start on financing, as the site allows you to begin the registration and bidding process. 

2. Technical service bulletins 
According to the Traverse City Record-Eagle, checking out technical service bulletins could be a smart move for many shoppers. These documents are released by manufacturers to inform drivers of any problems. They aren't as serious as official recalls, but they often involve important issues you should know about. 

3. The official website
Although the car you're considering may be used, you should still head to the manufacturer's website to check out the initial specs. This will give you a better idea of the technology and features available. It can also make it easier to compare the original version with the one you're thinking about buying, allowing you to scope out any areas where care may have lapsed over the past few years. 

4. Consumer reviews
You should also take a moment to research reviews from other drivers. This feedback provides insight as to what you can expect with regard to future maintenance and repairs. It could also let you know what to look for when taking test drives. 

5. Official vehicle history reports 
Once you've researched what people think of the model in general, you should do a little more digging into the background of the specific car you're considering. Carfax and similar organizations can provide a look at any past accidents or major repairs. While the right servicing may have made some of these events a non-issue, it's best to know what you're dealing with before you buy. 

Know How Your Credit Score Impacts Insurance

One of the biggest expenses related to car ownership is insurance costs. Drivers need to be protected on the roads, and insurance is the only surefire way to keep you covered. Unfortunately, this necessary policy can be quite expensive, and if your credit score is worse than you'd like, it could cost you even more. 

The truth about credit scores
Credit scores play a role in your insurance rates. But credit history is just one of many factors that impact insurance premiums, along with your driving record, location and other financial details. Esurance noted that many companies use credit-based scores to evaluate how likely you are to have an insurance claim in the future. Numerous studies have shown that this figure is relatively accurate when it comes to predicting your risk for an accident and the following claim, so it makes sense for providers to consider this when deciding on insurance premiums. 

Of course, insurance is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how a credit score impacts the bottom line. Your history will influence the type of auto loan you qualify for and what your interest rates are. You can improve your credit score in an attempt to make these other expenses more palatable, but it's going to be a slow process. Focus on making payments on time and eliminating debts as you can. In the end, this effort may even be beneficial to your insurance rates. 

Put your best foot forward
Because your credit score does matter when it comes to car insurance, you're going to want to put yourself in the best position possible before buying a used car. However, drastically improving a credit score can take a lot of time. If you need to get behind the wheel quickly, you may have to look to other resources that will help you save. That's where New Jersey State Auto Auction can help. 

This auction lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, and many of these options are available at low costs. People with less-than-ideal credit scores can find affordable vehicles with the help of the on-site financing department. The team of experts can get you guaranteed credit approval regardless of your credit history, securing you the loan you need to afford a used car. 

The Best Used Cars For Young Drivers

Young drivers have a lot to learn on the roads. One of the most important lessons involves safety, but this goes beyond defensive driving habits and fast reaction times. Motorists – especially relatively new ones who face a high risk for accidents – must also prioritize getting behind the wheel of used cars with plenty of effective safety features. 

What used cars should have
Consumer Reports recently released a list of the best used cars for teens. The vehicles all sell for less than $10,000 and come equipped with some of the best safety features on the market, making the automobiles smart choices for any family. 

According to the source, some of the most important features include electronic stability control. The main benefit of ESC is that it keeps the car on the road in situations where a rollover may be possible, which is often the most dangerous type of accident. In addition to secure seat belts, ESC is one of the most important amenities a car can have. 

Buyers should also look for vehicle with side and curtain air bags. Updated brakes and a strong frame are also important aspects to consider when shopping around. 

The best cars for young drivers 
So what are the top cars? According to Consumer Reports, Ford is a solid automaker to consider. The 2009 to 2011 Ford Focus, for instance, is a fuel-efficient vehicle loaded with amenities, but it stops short of offering overly distracting features. A Ford Fusion from 2010 to 2012 could also be a smart choice. Consumer Reports noted that this is a straightforward vehicle that is capable of getting the job done without overcomplicating the driving experience. 

Other options include the 2010 to 2011 Kia Soul, the 2006 to 2014 Hyundai Sonata, and the 2004 to 2012 Toyota RAV4. Each of these models provides drivers with the safety and performance features they need to handle the roads while also offering low price points. 

If you're looking for quality used cars at low prices, check out the selection at NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, many of which are equipped with top-notch safety features. Many of the automobiles on sale have a sticker price of under $10,000 as well, giving young drivers and their families many opportunities to save money without giving up quality. 

Is A Long-Term Auto Loan Right For You?

You may know that you want or need to buy a used car, but figuring out how to afford the purchase isn't as easy. There are many options for drivers to consider, with things like interest rates, monthly payments and insurance premiums playing a role. 

One of the biggest financial factors drivers must consider is the term of the auto loan. Not only does this determine how long you'll be paying off debts, but it also has a significant impact on the bottom line. If you're ready to get behind the wheel of a used car but need a little support in the form of auto loans, make sure you're considering whether a long-term option is right for you. 

When it's the right move 
Taking out a long-term loan has some advantages. The main benefit is that you'll be able to keep monthly payments down. This is ideal for people who may be sticking to a strict budget, as each month will have smaller payments than those associated with shorter loans. Subprime borrowers may be particularly drawn to long-term auto loans. They can take advantage of the smaller payments without sacrificing the quality of the vehicle, allowing them to stay safe on the roads.

When it's time to rethink 
However, just because a long-term loan may lead to manageable monthly payments doesn't mean it's the best bet for you. USA Today noted that longer loans usually use higher interest rates, which increases the bottom line for most borrowers. So while monthly payments may be lower, the total sum paid at the end of the experience is higher. Anyone concerned about this figure and how it impacts them should think twice before signing off on a long loan.

Similarly, people who don't want to be tied to one car for an extended period of time will want to capitalize on shorter loan terms. That allows them to quickly pay off debt and have the freedom to move on to other used cars. 

Discuss your options
Regardless of what you think is right, make sure you're taking the time to talk over your options with a professional. The team of experts at NJ State Auto, for example, can help you sort out the pros and cons of each offer, ultimately choosing the deal that makes the most financial sense.