MINI, known for its quirky designs and unique vehicles, like the Classic Mini Cooper, recently had a bit of bad PR. The British automaker’s American fans were inundated with an onslaught of automated email messages when a system glitch sent out hundreds of copies of the same email to each user on the mailing list, AutoBlog reports.

While this sort of thing generally does not happen, the standard procedure is to issue an apologetic email or letter explaining the error and promising it won’t happen again. However, MINI officials decided to approach the issue in a more unique way. The company sent care packages to each affected customer. Along with a letter of apology, each individual also received chocolate roses, a roll of duct tape and a can of Spam. In the letter, MINI stated that, “Nothing says, ‘I’m sorry,’ like flowers and chocolate, so we’ve combined the two and enclosed a chocolate rose,” according to MotorTorque.com.

The duct tape was a symbolic gesture to “fix things up,” while the can of Spam, a clever visual pun on their email error, was actually a soft, squeezable stress-reliever.

Many MINI fans have found this mailing to be fun and endearing as well as reminiscent of the brand’s overarching appeal. However, not everyone agrees. A number of consumers who responded to AutoBlog’s coverage of the story felt that the company’s time, efforts and money cold have been better spent improving the lineup and researching new technologies for future models.

Drivers who want to get closer to the brand may be able to find a used MINI Cooper convertible or hardtop at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Every vehicle on the lot is CARFAX certified, so drivers won’t have to worry when they get behind the wheel of a used car.

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.

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.

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. 

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.