Kelley Blue Book Lists the Best Used Cars Under $8,000

You need a new set of wheels, but buying brand new is pricey. However, you want a used car that is dependable so you won’t be in the same position later on down the road. Kelley Blue Book has you in mind, as it recently released the top used cars under $8,000. Not only will you be getting a deal, but you will also be getting a car you can depend on.

Making the list are the 2003 Acura TL, the 2004 Honda Odyssey, the 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Regular Cab, the 2005 Volvo S60, the 2004 Ford Mustang GT, the 2005 Mazda MAZDA3, the 2004 Honda Element and the 2011 Hyundai Accent. This proves that a used car doesn’t necessarily mean an old one, as only one of the models is 10 years old.

“To come up with this handy list of top used cars, first we compiled all the used cars from 2003 and newer with a Kelley Blue Book® Suggested Retail Value of less than $8,000 as of January 2013,” said Jack R. Nerad , executive editorial director for Kelley Blue Book ‘s KBB.com. “Then we went through the list and handpicked the 10 standouts with the most appealing mixes of reliability and desirability. The vehicles on our short list offer incredible value for today’s budget-conscious car shopper.”

If you are interested in these models are in luck, as NJ State Auto Auction has plenty of vehicles that will meet their needs. With a large selection to choose from, it’s likely that you will find one of these models while browsing New Jersey Auto’s stock.

Men and Women Both Believe They Have Upper Hand When Buying Cars

When a couple is thinking about purchasing a used car, they may find the process to be even more complicated than it is for an individual. Not only do they need to worry about the needs and desires of two drivers, but they may also encounter a power struggle. A recent survey conducted for the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers found that most men and women believe they hold all the cards when it comes to the making decisions about a car purchase.

Approximately 72 percent of men and 60 percent of women felt they had the most influence over the car-buying process. The balance of power varied when it came to different decisions, as 85 percent of men felt they were in a better position to choose the engine and powertrain options, compared to only 47 percent of women.

The survey found there are differences between what men and women want in cars, as 55 percent of all respondents felt women were more likely to purchase navigation systems than men.

“One of our industry’s most daunting tasks is meeting the needs of such a wide range of consumers,” said Mitch Bainwol, president and CEO of Alliance. “And this research shows why that can be such a complex process – there are a lot of different voices in so many households. But what’s especially impressive about this data is that it shows what a strong role women play in so many purchases.”

Whether couples looking to buy a car are struggling to reach a decision or they know exactly what they want, they will find plenty of makes and models to choose from at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Plus, every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so no matter who has the final say, they will drive off in a reliable ride.

Toyota Recalls 1.1 Million Corolla and Lexus IS Sedans Worldwide

Drivers who are considering purchasing used Toyotas may want to do a bit of extra research before all sales are final. The Japanese automaker recently announced a recall of more than 1.1 million Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Lexus IS models around the world, concerning the airbags and windshield wipers. This massive air bag-related recall affects approximately 752,000 Toyota models in the U.S. that were produced between 2003 and 2004, according to USA Today.

The airbag control modules on affected vehicles may have been manufactured with defects in the circuitry. This could lead to damage that may cause inadvertent deployment of front airbags. So far, there have been 46 reported incidents in the U.S., 18 of which resulted in abrasion injuries, Bloomberg reports.

There was also a recall for about 270,000 Lexus IS models in the U.S. that were made between 2006 and 2012. This recall involves a loose nut on the wiper blades that would lead them to fail under too much pressure – such as an accumulation of snow. Toyota has received 25 reports worldwide involving issues with the wipers, according to USA Today.

Toyota will repair the issues in all affected models, but drivers looking to buy used cars should still take caution. It is important that they research the vehicle history to ensure any recalls have been taken care of before they buy a car. If a recall has not been addressed, this could be a red flag that there may be other underlying issues with the car as well.

New Jersey State Auto Auction makes this easy, as every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers will have full access to the maintenance and repair history. Whether drivers are looking to get behind the wheel of a Toyota, a Lexus or any other vehicle, NJ Auto Auction is sure to have a car that suits their needs.

Finding the Perfect Car for Winter Driving

Drivers who live in the New York/New Jersey area know very well that winter weather can make driving a challenge. While this region may not be snow-covered all winter long, the icy conditions that occur throughout the season should be taken into consideration when picking out a used car. Some vehicles are better than others when it comes to traversing ice and snow, and the best choice may not always be a large SUV, either.

Kelley Blue Book (KBB) recently named its top 10 picks for the best new cars for winter weather, and a few choices may be useful for those looking to purchase used cars. The 2013 Subaru Outback, for instance, was chosen for its all-wheel-drive system that helps the car stay firmly planted on the road no matter how slippery it gets. The Outback has been in production for many years, making it easy for car shoppers to find a used model for sale that offers the same benefits. The 2006 Subaru Outback Wagon comes standard with all-wheel-drive and it has plenty of cargo space, according to Edmunds.

Another model on KBB’s list was the 2013 Toyota Sienna. Drivers looking for an affordable minivan that has enough space for the whole family and can also keep them safe on the road all year long can check out a used Sienna. Know best perhaps for its sleek design, the Sienna is the only minivan that also offers all-wheel drive.

Car shoppers can head to New Jersey Auto Auction to find the winter-worthy vehicle they desire. There is a wide selection of makes and models to choose from, and every car on the lot is CARFAX certified, so motorists will know they’re getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Tips for Buying Used Cars: Part 2

After you have done your research and chosen a handful of used cars that you’re interested in, the next step is to visit a dealership and check them out. You’ll need to do a few things before you start the car buying process. Taking the time to assess each vehicle will not only ensure you buy a ride you like, but it can also save you from winding up with a lemon.

1. Test drive each car
The best way to know for sure if a certain vehicle is right for you is to take it for a spin. When you go out for a test drive, don’t just circle the block a few times. Take the car out on a highway and test it out in various conditions to really get a feel for how it handles. Pay attention to how it responds when you take turns, accelerate and brake. Remember, you’re going to be driving this car for at least a few years, so it is important you are comfortable.

2. Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle
Once you’ve decided on a particular model, have an independent mechanic inspect it. This will usually cost between $75 and $150, but the professional can spot any issues you might not notice, such as signs of flood damage or major repairs that have been performed on a vehicle. The dealer may offer to make repairs or replace parts before you buy, so you won’t incur the cost.

3. Negotiate pricing
Remember the research you did earlier? Now is the time to use that information. Sites like Kelley Blue Book and Consumer Reports can help you determine the average selling price of the car you want, based on its current condition. When you are well informed, you’re less likely to pay too much for a used car.

New Jersey Auto Auction is a good place to find the car you want, as every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers know they’ll be getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride. 

Tips for Buying Used Cars: Part 1

If you’re getting ready to buy a used car, there are a few steps you should take before you start negotiating with a dealer. Spending some time researching different choices and deciding which aspects are most important to you can better your odds of finding a vehicle that you’ll enjoy driving for years to come. Here are a few suggestions for beginning your search for the perfect used vehicle.

1. Decide what you want in a car
The first thing you should think about is what you want in a vehicle. Focus on major features like fuel efficiency and safety, and leave smaller details like infotainment systems and sun roofs for when you have narrowed down your selection. Some elements you will want to consider are vehicle size, reliability, overall cost of ownership, safety ratings and price.

2. Start researching your options
When you have found a handful of vehicles that fit your requirements for the aforementioned features, it is time to look more closely at these cars. Researching reviews from other drivers can help you determine what they have paid as well as their opinions about how a particular model handles. Top safety ratings and a low price won’t mean much if you don’t feel comfortable behind the wheel of the car.

3. Consider the fun features
The first two steps will help you eliminate a number of vehicles, but when you’re left with around five choices you can start looking at the design and additional features of each model. At this point, whichever model you choose will still have all the important aspects you wanted, so you can be particular about the layout of the dashboard or the color selections.

Sometimes it is best to see the vehicles in person, and you can find a variety of makes and models at NJ State Auto Auction. Every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so no matter which you choose, you’ll be driving away in a reliable ride.

Driving Tips for Winter Weather

Snow has become a common sight in the New York/New Jersey area, which means the roads are likely icy and more dangerous than usual. The most important thing to remember is to slow down when roads are covered in snow or ice, even if they have already been plowed and salted. There are other tips and tricks that you should keep in mind if you find yourself in unfortunate situations on the road.

Driving on icy roads
In addition to going slowly, you should be cautious on bridges, overpasses and less-traveled roads as these areas will probably be icier than busier roadways, according to The Weather Channel. It is also important to brake gently, as this will help you avoid skidding. If you do start to skid or notice the wheels are locking, ease your foot off the brake. 

Skidding
If you start to skid, don’t panic. First, take your foot off the gas pedal and steer the car in the direction the wheels are going. If they change direction, don’t jerk the wheel the other way, but slowly turn it in the new direction. At the same time, you should be applying steady pressure to your brake pedal. Most cars have antilock brakes that will automatically pump for you, but if you have standard brakes you will need to pump them manually during a skid.

Getting stuck
Whether you can’t pull out of your parking space or you’ve gone off the road and can’t seem to get the car to move, it may be tempting to floor it and use acceleration to get the
car to go. However, this will only further dig you in to the spot, so instead, turn the steering wheel from side to side, as this can help the tires push snow out of the way. You can also clear the snow away with a shovel or put down some gravel, sand or kitty litter to add friction.

If you need a used car this winter, head to NJ State Auto Auction, which has a wide selection of makes and models to choose from.

Red Light Cameras Reduce Violations, Improve Safety

Many cities and towns across the country have adopted the use of security cameras to crack down on moving violations at dangerous intersections – running red lights, in particular. Not only do these cameras catch drivers in the act if they blow through a red light, but they can also work to prevent people from doing so in the first place, which is helping to make the roads safer. 

In order to determine just how effective red light cameras have been, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently examined data involving the rate of red light-running in Arlington, Virginia. In June 2010, cameras were installed at four major intersections throughout the city. IIHS researchers recorded these intersections and tracked when and how often drivers ran red lights.

After a year, the researchers found that the number of violations dropped significantly, and the reductions increased for violations that occurred later into the red light. Those that occurred at least 0.5 seconds after the light turned red dropped 39 percent, and the odds of someone running a red light at least 1.5 seconds after it changed declined 86 percent. 

“What these numbers show is that those violations most likely to lead to a crash are reduced the most,” said Anne McCartt, senior vice president for research at IIHS. “The longer the light has been red when a violator enters an intersection, the more likely the driver is to encounter a vehicle traveling in another direction or a pedestrian.”

Drivers who want to stay safe on the road can find a reliable used car at New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide selection of makes and models to choose from, vehicle shoppers are sure to find what they’re looking for. Plus, every model is CARFAX certified, so they will know they’re getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

AAA Survey Reveals Many Drivers Use Phones Despite Risks

It is no secret that using a phone while driving is one of the major distractions behind the wheel, but plenty of motorists are still using their devices when they’re operating vehicles, according to a recent survey from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Even though the majority of those surveyed said they think other drivers using phones threaten their own safety, 69 percent of these same individuals admitted to using their phones while driving in the past month.

“Ninety percent of respondents believe that distracted driving is a somewhat or much bigger problem today than it was three years ago, yet they themselves continue to engage in the same activities,” said Peter Kissinger, president and CEO of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “More work clearly is needed to educate motorists on the risks associated with using a cell phone while driving, especially given that most Americans believe this problem is getting worse.”

What’s worse is these same individuals are also more likely to do other dangerous things in their cars, including speeding (65 percent), texting (53 percent), driving while drowsy (44 percent) and not wearing a seatbelt (29 percent). On the other hand, drivers who abstained from using their phones behind the wheel were far less likely to engage in other risky behaviors. Only 31 percent said they had speeded in the past month, 16 percent didn’t wear seatbelts, 14 percent drove while drowsy and a mere 3 percent said they sent a text while driving.

Drivers looking to stay safe on the road can find reliable rides at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a variety of used makes and models, and every car on the lot has been CARFAX certified, letting car shoppers rest easy knowing they’re getting behind the wheel of a safe ride.

Saving Gas During Colder Months: Don’t Preheat Your Car

When temperatures drop, it might seem ideal to start your car and let it run until the heater kicks in so your hands don’t freeze to the steering wheel. However, this can be a very wasteful practice. For every hour the car idles, it can use anywhere from a quarter to half a gallon of gasoline, according to the Department of Energy.

If you let the car warm up for 10 minutes every day before you leave for work, you could have wasted as much as 2 1/2 gallons of gasoline – and that doesn’t even take into account other times you might warm up the car. Basically, it can add up quickly. Not only does this mean you’re going to be spending more at the pump, but you’re also releasing more emissions into the atmosphere, which works against other efforts you and your family might be making to go green. 

Some people may believe it is necessary to let the engine warm up before driving, but this is a myth. An engine will run better when the temperature is higher, but the fastest way to heat up the engine is to put it to work. Think of it this way, do you get warmer faster by standing in one spot or by moving around? The same holds true for your car. 

Sure, letting the interior of the car heat up can make it easier to melt the ice on your windshield, which is better than using all your energy to scrape it off by hand. However, there are other options to make this process easier. There are many de-icing solutions available that you can spray on your windshield, but you can also mix a solution using equal parts water and ethyl alcohol or vinegar. This will help to melt the ice and make it easier to clear the glass.

If you’re looking for a car this winter, consider checking out the options at NJ State Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide selection of makes and models, and every vehicle is CARFAX certified.