A recent study from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University found that women were frequently quoted higher prices for auto repair. The report, titled "Repairing the Damage: The Effect of Price Expectations on Auto Repair Price Quotes," showed that gender does play a role when it comes to paying for car repairs. 

Many auto repair shops will alter price quotes if drivers, regardless of gender, appear to be well-informed. Car owners who seemed uninformed were given higher price estimates, especially if they were women. 

"This comes down to stereotypes and assumptions," said Meghan Busse, associate professor of management and strategy at the Kellogg School. "Our findings suggest that auto shops may assume men know the market price for a given repair, so they automatically grant it. However, they may not expect women to be knowledgeable in this area, so the perception is they can charge them more." 

Despite the fact that women were quoted more, they were often given the benefit of the doubt in negotiations. Although most shops were unwilling to change their original price estimates, when they did lower the price, women were most likely the beneficiaries. The study found about 35 percent of women had their requested price met, compared to just 25 percent of men. 

Drivers who do a bit of research before heading to an auto repair shop to learn about what their vehicle needs may benefit from their efforts and pay a lower price for the work. Of course, they can also decide to visit reputable sites that are known for quality repairs.  

Drivers who are looking for affordable prices and fair deals can look to NJ State Auto Auction for help. The lot's Total Car Care Center provides a great place for a car tune-up or repair that can address any issues you find with a vehicle.

With so many U.S.-centric holidays occurring over the course of the summer, many Americans are letting their patriotism shine through. For some residents, however, the love of country extends beyond holidays and into the streets, where people choose to drive American-made cars to support national companies instead of foreign manufacturers. 

According to an analysis from TrueCar, there are a few states that stand out when it comes to purchasing "patriotic" cars. Michigan tops the list, with about 79.2 percent of drivers buying vehicles from one of the country's "Big Three" automakers – GM, Ford and Chrysler. All three of these manufacturers are headquartered in the state, so it's no surprise that the companies have such a stronghold on the market. 

Michigan is followed by North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wyoming and Montana in the ranking of the most patriotic states. Each of these regions has more than 60 percent of its car purchases involving an American-made vehicle. 

Regions with the lowest percent of American buyers were Hawaii, Washington, D.C., and California, each of which had less than one-fourth of auto purchases involving a U.S. manufacturer. 

"Despite Asian and European automakers having a number of factories in the U.S., many Americans still have strong loyalty to the brands they view as 'domestic,'" said Jesse Toprak, a senior analyst for TrueCar. "Even as the line defining what is or isn't domestic has blurred, perception, attitudes and buying habits are more resistant to change, particularly in the heartland."

Drivers who are looking for any kind of vehicles, whether they are made in the U.S. or a foreign country, can turn to NJ State Auto Auction for some of the top options. The auction lot is filled with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, and it may even contain a used automobile that could serve as your next ride. 

Throughout July, drivers have to be aware of more than engines overheating or vehicle maintenance before beach-bound road trips. The summer month is one of the most popular for vehicle theft, so motorists are encouraged to take some precautions to prevent theft or damage from affecting them. 

The International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (IAATI) has joined forces with LoJack to raise awareness of stolen vehicles. Together they are launching a national campaign of public service announcements and online videos to show drivers how they can remain vigilant and take steps to prevent themselves from becoming victims of theft. 

"This month – like every month – LoJack and IAATI are laser focused on educating every innocent driver about the importance of vehicle safety, which includes protecting your 'family fleet' from criminals and encouraging better, safer driving practices to decrease accidents on the road," said Randy J. Ortiz, president of LoJack Corp. 

KLTV News recommends drivers take advantage of a few simple tips to help keep their cars safe. Small actions such as parking in a well-lit, high-traffic area can go a long way toward pushing potential thieves away. It's also a good idea to remove or hide any personal items, spare change or technological devices, as any of these products might encourage someone to break into a car. Always locking a vehicle and taking the keys with you is also a must. 

Whether you're looking for a vehicle that comes equipped with anti-theft devices or want a car that is better served to protect you and your family, you can find worthy options at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The auction lot is home to plenty of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that could very well be your next ride. 

It may seem counterintuitive to think that when the weather is warmer the roads get more dangerous, but a new study from Driving-Tests.org found that July is actually the worst month in terms of fatal car accidents. While this doesn't mean you should be more reckless when the snow starts to fall, it raises concern for added precaution behind the wheel all year long.

Driving-Tests.org, an educational website for those learning to drive, examined crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ranging from 2005 to 2011, and they found that 27 percent of fatal accidents occurred during June, July, August and September, with the majority of these incidents falling in July. The spike could be a result of more drivers on the road, as children are out of school and families take more trips to the beach and to visit loved ones. Often people taking long trips may be less accustomed to being behind the wheel for extended periods of time, which can result in sluggishness and delayed response times. It is important to stop and take a break or let someone else take over for a while when you feel yourself growing tired during long voyages.

You should also avoid speeding, abstain from distractions like using cellphones, playing with the radio and daydreaming. Instead, focus your attention on what's going on around you – check your side and rearview mirrors frequently and glance back at your blind spot before changing lanes or making turns. If you are on vacation and planning to go out on the town or attend a barbecue where you have a few drinks, make sure to designate a driver or make other arrangements.

Another way to stay safe is to drive a reliable vehicle. If your current car needs a lot of work, you might want to consider trading it in for a newer model in better shape. New Jersey State Auto Auction has a wide selection of used cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from.