When you're shopping for a used car in New Jersey, you should thoroughly research your purchase before making a final decision. This includes everything from determining the market value of a particular model and assessing the total cost of ownership to test driving and inspecting the vehicle itself.

Many drivers may not be aware of the importance of inspecting the vehicle, but doing so can help them spot and avoid a "lemon." Lemons are cars that have sustained significant damages or undergone repairs that drastically reduce their value, but many private sellers and some used car dealers may try to pull the wool over consumers' eyes to make money off their cars. Not all dealers are out to deceive car shoppers. New Jersey State Auto Auction, for instance, guarantees the quality of their vehicles, which are all CARFAX certified, so drivers know they're getting behind the wheel of reliable vehicles.

However, it is always a safe bet to give a car a once over, just in case something is wrong that may have gone unnoticed. The Wall Street Journal recommends looking for mismatched paint and checking for uniformity along any seams in the car's body. This can indicate major repair work was done. You should also check for signs of flood damage inside the engine. Look for water lines under the hood that could hint the vehicle has been exposed to water damage. This can not only impact the value of the car, but has likely caused a significant amount of damage and rust.

The best way to ensure a vehicle is in the condition the seller claims is to have a trusted independent mechanic inspect the car before you make a purchase. This typically costs between $75 and $150, according to the news source.

With the country still emerging from the recession, many American drivers are holding on to their cars longer than ever. As a result, the average age of a car on the road is around 11 years old. There are many ways motorists can ensure they get the most out of their ride for years to come, and a recent survey of mechanics revealed some of the best options.

Researchers talked to 450 auto maintenance experts across the country, and the results revealed some of the best ways to take care of your car are also some of the easiest. The majority of respondents said that changing your oil at the recommended intervals and regularly replacing all the vital fluids are the most important components in keeping your car on the road. Making sure you get your tires rotated was also one of the most popular answers.

Staying on top of general upkeep likely doesn't come as much of a surprise to many motorists. However, the many mechanics also highlighted the benefits of using higher-quality gasoline. In fact, seven out of 10 of the respondents said people can ensure their cars  run longer thank to higher-quality gas. In a similar vein, almost all of the mechanics (95 percent) pointed to having a clean fuel injector as one of the most important components of having your engine perform well.

Whether you need your oil changed, tires rotated or a more substantial repairs, New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center can help you out. With a staff of talented mechanics, you can be sure to keep your car on the road as long as possible.

May is graduation season, and many parents choose to reward their kids' hard work with the gift of a car. Total Car Score recently published a list of its picks for the best cars for drivers fresh out of college that are reliable, safe, fuel efficient and affordable. The Kia Forte not only made the grade, but it was the most affordable vehicle on the list, which also included the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Chevy Cruze and Scion xB.

"Forte's achievement of being named to Total Car Score's 'Top Cars for College Grads' list is validation that its low cost and abundance of smart, youthful characteristics make it a natural fit for young adults who are about to enter the professional world," said Orth Hedrick, product planning director for Kia Motors America. "Furthermore, as the automotive marketplace becomes increasingly competitive with higher-quality cars, the Kia Forte is poised to succeed as one of the most well-built, well-equipped cars in its class."

In the past few years, Kia has built up a reputation for delivering affordable, trustworthy vehicles and the company is now one of the leading brands in the U.S., making it a great choice for a college grad.

A new Forte has a starting price of just $15,200. This means used models are likely to be even more affordable. The Forte has not undergone any dramatic changes in the past few years, so parents can save money by purchasing a used model from a used car dealer in New Jersey like New Jersey State Auto Auction. An older version will still have many of the same amenities as the 2012 model. 

There are many different aspects consumers needs to pay attention to when shopping for new or used cars in New Jersey. Everything from researching the market value of the vehicle to finding out how it compares to similar makes and models can contribute to the final decision, but the test drive is the best chance to really find out if a certain vehicle is right for you. Getting behind the wheel gives you the chance to check for any issues with how the car drives, the interior features and other things like visibility and cargo space.

"The test drive can be the most important aspect of buying a new or used car, but it's also one of the most overlooked," said Joe Wiesenfelder, executive editor for Cars.com. "We want to ensure that shoppers don't let their emotions get the best of them when they should be gathering the important information they need to make the right purchase."

Cars.com recommends giving the vehicle a thorough once-over before you even start it up. Checking the door handles, power windows, radio and other features is a good start, especially when choosing a used vehicle. There may be something minor, such as a seat adjuster that sticks, that will wind up driving you up a wall if you buy the car. When you're sitting in the driver's seat, make sure you have clear visibility. You may find the SUV you had your heart on makes it next to impossible to see behind you. Cars.com recommends checking the storage space of the vehicle to ensure it will fit your needs.

New Jersey State Auto Auction carries a wide variety of makes and models, giving you will have plenty of options to choose from. Plus, all their vehicles are CARFAX certified, so you know you're getting a reliable vehicle.