Monthly Archives: February 2013

Honda’s Social Media Efforts Recognized at Chicago Auto Show

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Posted in General Auto News

Honda was recently given the first-ever “Driver Engagement” award at the Chicago Auto Show. Since social media has become an integral part of marketing for most major car companies, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association decided to introduce a new award at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show to showcase the effectiveness of marketing through sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Japanese automaker’s campaign, Honda Loves You Back, beat out runners-up Nissan and Dodge to take the prize. 

“We are thrilled and proud that the latest edition in our Honda Loves You Back social media campaign has been recognized. We’re so grateful for the love our customers express for their Honda vehicles,” said Alicia Jones, manager of social media at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “I think it’s the simplicity of the campaign’s intent – to say thank you and share the conversation with them – that makes it work.”‘

The Honda campaign showcased a music video from the up-and-coming band Monsters Calling Home, as the video was filmed inside one of the band member’s Honda. The car company got the band booked on” Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in a symbolic gesture of giving back to fans of the brand.

Social media campaigns like this help drivers connect more personally with a brand, as they can interact with a company by uploading their stories and photos. Toyota, for instance, ran a campaign for fans to upload photos to Instagram. The winning picture was featured during Toyota’s Super Bowl commercial.

Whether drivers have been won over by a marketing campaign or they just prefer a certain brand, they’ll be able to find a variety of used models at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Every vehicle on the lot comes with a full CARFAX vehicle history report, so drivers know exactly what they’re buying.

Chris Brown Crashes Porsche, Blames Paparazzi

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Posted in Celebrity Auto News

Hip-hop performer Chris Brown recently made headlines, not for his musical career or his relationship with singer Rihanna, but instead for getting into a car accident. The 23-year-old entertainer crashed his Porsche against a wall in Beverly Hills, California over the weekend, according to Reuters. Brown, unharmed, told police he was trying to get away from aggressive paparazzi on Saturday afternoon when he lost control of his sports car.

The accident occurred the day before the Grammy Awards, and the news source indicates the crash did not seem to faze the performer, who showed up to the red carpet with a broad grin on his face.

“Little bit of bumps. I’m all good though,” Brown told E! News’s Ryan Seacrest on the red carpet. He explained that even though his Porsche was totaled, he is planning to get another one. “Insurance is good.”

Brown’s rep told E! News Online that the celebrity was being “ruthlessly pursued by paparazzi,” who cornered him in an alley. The Associated Press reports police will be investigating the incident fully. As of yet, the paparazzi have not been identified.

While most drivers are likely not going to have to worry about being stalked by cameramen, they still need to be aware of other risks and dangers while behind the wheel. Some accidents can be easily remedied with a bit of auto body work. In these cases, the experts at New Jersey State Auto Auction can help get a car back in working order. When a vehicle is totaled, it will be time to purchase a replacement, and NJ Auto Auction has plenty of options. Whether drivers are looking to get behind the wheel of a celebrity-worthy sports car or they prefer something a bit more modest, NJ Auto has it all.

Now is the Time to Trade In Used Cars

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Posted in Auto Industry News

When it comes time to start thinking about buying your next car, you might not immediately think about what you’re going to do with your current ride. Those who drive their cars into the ground can scrap them or donate them to charity, but if your vehicle is still in working condition, you can opt to sell it privately or trade it in at a dealer. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), a trade-in may be the best way to go this year.

“Car buyers will find 2013 another excellent year to trade in their current vehicles for either new or previously owned cars or trucks,” Jonathan Banks, executive automotive analyst with the NADA Used Car Guide, explained at the NADA Convention and Expo in Orlando, Florida.

Banks went on to highlight a number of factors that are likely to affect your ability to get a good deal when you trade in your vehicle, which all stem from the overall improvements in the economy. First, lending is improving, and more people are applying for loans to buy new and used cars, so dealers will be looking to increase their inventories to meet the growing demand. More people are returning to dealerships ready to buy, thanks to improving housing and construction industries that are creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.

It also hasn’t hurt the used vehicle market that the number of new vehicles being sold has increased so dramatically in recent months. More people buying new models means more 1- to 3-year-old vehicles becoming available for used car shoppers.

Those in the market for previously owned vehicles can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide selection of makes and models, and every car on the lot is CARFAX certified. Plus, NJ Auto Auction offers top dollar for trade-in vehicles.

Tips for Deicing Your Windshield

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Posted in How To

When cold weather first sets in, you can usually get away with using the defroster to blast away the frost from your windshield. However, as things get colder and icier, you might be faced with a thick sheet of ice or a snowdrift that blocks your vision. When you can’t just brush the snow away, you’ll need to take more extreme action. However, going about this the wrong way could possibly damage your windshield and lead to costly repairs.

There are many ice scrapers out there that are easy to throw in the trunk of your car, but you will want to steer clear of those with metal blades that could easily scratch the glass. When you actually go to scrape off the ice, resist the urge to use the tool as a pick. Stabbing at the sheet of ice may help break it up, but this could be too effective and crack the pane of glass below the frozen layer. Ideally, you should start at the outer edges and work in a back-and-forth motion for best results. 

In addition to manually scraping the ice off the car, you can use a store-bought deicer or turn on your defroster before heading out to help speed up the process. Set the defroster to low, so the glass is heated slowly from the inside. Never pour hot water onto the ice, as the contrast of hot and cold could cause the glass to crack. You can buy deicing solutions at the store or make your own. Two popular options are using ethyl alcohol or vinegar mixed with equal parts water.

If you do accidentally crack the windshield or encounter other damages this winter, you can bring your car to New Jersey State Auto Auction‘s Total Car Care Center. The experts at the auto shop will be able to help you with your maintenance and repair need.

 

Kia Unveils Superman Car for Charity

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Posted in General Auto News

Kia recently unveiled its Superman-inspired Optima Hybrid, the sixth installment of its eight-car charitable campaign, “We Can Be Heroes,” at the Chicago International Auto Show. The South Korean automaker is customizing eight different vehicles to represent the superheroes who make up DC Entertainment’s Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman and Cyborg. With the help of DC Entertainment co-publisher Jim Lee, Kia designers created a vehicle that captures the unbeatable invincibility and upstanding nature of the FDR-era Superman.

“As the most recognized superhero in the world, Superman is a symbol of strength and integrity, making him the perfect character to join forces with Kia’s first-ever hybrid to create a customized ride powered by a robust and efficient powertrain,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications for Kia Motors America. “Each of our Justice League-inspired vehicles are remarkable collaborations between the automotive and comic book worlds, and all for a worthy cause.”

The Superman-themed car has a few fancy features, including a button that raises and lowers the suspension, customized fenders, red headlights and other red accents, and of course, the iconic “S” logo the hero wears on his costume. This and the other super-cars are being used to promote DC Entertainment’s efforts to raise funds to help people in the Horn of Africa who are fighting drought and famine.

While this ride is one-of-a-kind, drivers looking for used cars can head over to New Jersey Auto Auction, which carries a wide selection of makes and models, including a variety of Kia cars as well as hybrid options like the Toyota Prius. Every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers can get behind the wheel of a reliable vehicle whether they want to save the world by going green or opt for something a bit more traditional.

Tips for Checking Car Oil

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Posted in How To

There are many steps you need to take to keep your car running well, and one of the most crucial things to check is the oil. You probably already know that it is important to have the oil changed regularly, but you might not even think twice about it in between scheduled maintenance. However, periodically checking the oil can help you spot issues early, which may save you loads of money on repairs in the long run. 

To check the oil, grab some paper towels or a rag, and make sure the engine is cooled down before popping the hood and locating the oil dipstick. It is usually toward the front of the car and will have a yellow handle. Pull it out and wipe it clean with your rag, and then insert it all the way back in before pulling it out again. This time, check the end of the dipstick. You are looking to see if the fluid level reaches the fill line indicator. If it is low, add more and check the level again in a few days – a significant drop could point to a leak in the system. Also check the color and consistency of the oil. Dark brown to black coloration means it’s time to change the oil, even if you haven’t reached the next scheduled change. Debris in the fluid could point to a leak, as well.

Whether it is time for your regular oil change or you suspect there could be a leak, you can bring your car to the experts at New Jersey Auto Auction‘s Total Car Care Center. They can take care of any routine maintenance and repair needs you may have, even if you didn’t buy your car at NJ Auto Auction, since the garage is open to the public. 

Consider Overall Cost of Owning the Car You Want

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Posted in General Auto News

When you’re looking to purchase a used car, there are many different aspects to consider, including the initial price as well as a vehicle’s safety and reliability, but perhaps one of the most important elements of having a car is the long-term cost of ownership. After you shell out the dough to buy your car, you won’t stop spending money on your purchase. Everything from fueling up to getting regular maintenance and insuring your vehicle will add up over time, and some models cost more to own than others. For instance, a large SUV like a GMC Terrain will likely use more gas and cost more to fill at the pump than a smaller model like a Honda Civic.

You can research the cost of ownership of certain vehicles online or by asking people who own them about the expenses. In addition to fuel consumption, you will want to find out how frequently a particular model needs to be serviced, whether it is known for needing repairs or part replacements regularly, and how expensive it is to insure. A sporty Porsche 911 is going to have a higher insurance premium than an entry-level sedan like a Ford Fiesta. Some brands and models are known to break down more frequently than others that have a reputation for being reliable.

You should factor long-term costs into your decision before purchasing a used car, especially if a vehicle is priced well below the average selling price for that model. This could indicate it is in less-than-ideal condition, so the money you save up front would be made up by the repairs you’ll need to pay for down the line.

When you have done your research, you can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to find the vehicle you desire. The dealer carries a wide selection of makes and models, and every car on the lot is CARFAX certified, so you know you’ll be getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Tesla S: First All-Electric Vehicle Named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year

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Posted in Auto Industry News

Motor Trend recently unveiled the winner of its 2013 Car of the Year (COTY) award. Going up against 24 competitors, the Tesla S took the crown, becoming the first all-electric COTY. The battery-powered vehicle not only dominated during the various track and real-world tests, but it beat vehicles like the Porsche 911 and Boxster, BMW 3 Series and the Subaru BR-Z, which were ranked highly for their excellent performance. The Motor Trend judges found the Tesla S got roughly 118 miles per gallon-equivalent (MPGe) on a 212-mile journey from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, making it one of the most fuel efficient models available today. Tesla officials told Motor Trend they are working to expand their lineup, and are hoping to introduce an SUV and an entry-level model in coming years.

The Tesla S is not the only impressive COTY, and previous winners may be viable options for drivers looking to purchase used cars. The vehicles are rated on their interior and exterior design, engineering excellence, efficiency, safety, value and performance of intended function. This means the winners are the top of the pile in terms of safety and reliability as well. Past winners that car shoppers may be able to find on used car lots include the 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 2011 Chevrolet Volt, 2006 Honda Civic and 2000 Lincoln LS. 

Drivers who want to get behind the wheel of a reliable ride can use Motor Trend COTY winners as a good jumping off point to narrow down their selection, and they may be able to find these and other options at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer has a wide variety of makes and models on the lot, and every vehicle is CARFAX certified.

Tips for Your Test Drive

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Posted in General Auto News, How To

When shopping for a used car, there are many steps drivers should take to ensure they get the right model. After deciding which features are most important and researching safety data, cost of ownership and other information, you may have narrowed down your selection to a handful of vehicles. At this point, the next step is to visit a dealership and test drive each model. This lets you get a feel for a car, including everything from how it handles on the road to your level of comfort when you’re in the vehicle. There are many aspects of a test drive to take into account that can help you make an informed decision.

Take a look, inside and out
Before you get in the car, take a look at the exterior and interior, making note of any damages, dents or issues like a door handle that sticks. Check out the trunk, pop the hood and make sure everything is in order.

Push all the buttons
When you get into the car, test out the various controls. This includes everything from the turn signals and the horn to the radio and heating system. You will also want to try out the seat adjusters and seat belt to make sure they’re working properly.

Drive all over the place
Once you drive off the lot, don’t simply take the car around the block and call it a day. In order to get a feel for how the vehicle handles, you will want to see how it performs in various conditions. Hop on the highway, drive through town and even test it out on a dirt road if you travel on unpaved paths regularly.

You are going to be driving the vehicle you choose for at least a few years, so making sure you are comfortable in it is crucial. You can find a variety of makes and models to test drive at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Since every model on the lot is CARFAX certified, you’ll know you’re getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Research Cars Before Buying to Avoid Lemons

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Posted in Auto Industry News

When shopping for used cars, drivers should research their options to avoid purchasing models that are overpriced or have major problems. Often times, previously owned models may have been in accidents or received repairs that could dramatically influence their value. Looking into a model’s history is a great way to find out whether it has had extensive damage and what work has been done over the years. It will also let drivers know if any recall issues have been addressed.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports all recalls for consumers, so car shoppers can visit the website and look up the particular model and year of the car they’re considering to find out about past and current recalls. A recent report from CARFAX found many vehicles are being sold online without having their recalls addressed first. In 2012, the vehicle history reporting company found that 2.1 million models that had open recalls were up for sale online. This is an improvement from the 2.7 million vehicles in 2011, but the large number still makes it extremely important for drivers to do their homework before purchasing a car.

Every CARFAX report contains information pertaining to recalls that list specific VIN numbers, making it easy for drivers to find out if the car they want is or has ever been under recall. Every model on the New Jersey Public Auto Auction lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers won’t have to work hard to get the history of any of the various makes and models available at NJ State Auto.