When Buying Used Trumps Buying New

Americans have found many different ways to save money in the midst of a turbulent economy, but one of the most popular has been holding on to cars longer than ever before. The average age of a vehicle on the road is approaching 11 years, and new car sales declined for two years in a row before rising again in 2011.

While some motorists may be tempted to go new as it becomes time to switch vehicles, there are a number of used cars out there that may be just as reliable for a fraction of the cost, according to TheStreet.com.

Smaller SUVs and crossovers have been some of the most popular and reliable cars over the past decade and for consumers looking to purchase a used car, that hasn't changed. In particular, The Street says that the Ford Escape is one of the best. The 2002 model, which was originally went for about $23,000 brand new can now be had for around $5,700. And while it may only get 20 miles per gallon, the XLT package provides drivers with 201 horsepower and considerable towing capability.

When it comes to sedans, it should come as no surprise that the Honda Accord is one of the best used options. The Accord is among the most regularly-seen cars on the road, and for good reason. The 2002 model offers 29 mile-per-gallon fuel efficiency and comes complete with a number of features that make its under-$6,000 price tag very appealing.

For a sportier option, consumers may want to check out the Acura RSX. The model has not been manufactured since 2006, but it was one of the more reliable cars out there that blended both speed and luxury at an affordable price, according to TheStreet.

Whether you're looking for an SUV, sedan, or two-door coupe, New Jersey State Auto Auction is the place to go. With a wide variety of makes and models there will certainly be something for you.

Vintage Japanese Cars Becoming Popular

It's no surprise that small, fuel-efficient cars are popular among consumers. With an uncertain economy and high gas prices, it makes sense to downsize. However, there is one growing trend that may raise a few eyebrows. Over the last 10 years, vintage car enthusiasts have placed a premium on small Japanese cars and trucks from decades past, The Detroit News reports.

The tendency is largely driven through nostalgia. Though the cars are certainly reliable, many adults who came of age as Japanese vehicles were making a splash in the '70s and '80s find themselves yearning for the experience of driving them once more. And unlike other vintage cars, Japanese models are not only easy to find but affordable as well.

"It's a very special feeling I have for cars like these – the designs, the sound of the engines, the way they drive," Jun Imai, who owns two Datsuns from the 1970s, told the newspaper. "They are so distinctive, yet most are approachable in terms of costs and availability."

Though decades-old imports from Japan have become increasingly popular among vintage car enthusiasts, current models are just as trendy. In particular, the recently redesigned Toyota Camry was a hit among consumers. According to Motor Trend, the manufacturer sold 28,000 vehicles in January, and Camry led the way – selling 55.9 percent more than last January. Other Japanese companies also reported growth including Nissan, Scion and Honda.

Whether you're looking for an older Honda or a more recent Toyota, New Jersey State Auto Auction is likely to have you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, there's something for everyone.

Honda Odyssey named Best Minivan by Motorweek

The Honda Odyssey has been one of the most popular minivans in the U.S. since it was first released, and the trend continued when it was announced that the Odyssey announced that it won the 2012 Motorweek Drivers' Choice Award for Best Minivan. It's familiar territory for the minivan, which has won the the distinction five times before.

It also marks the second consecutive year the Odyssey has earned the award, a feat it also accomplished in 1999 and 2000 as well as 2005 and 2006.  It's no surprise that the Odyssey is a favorite among drivers. In addition to getting 28 miles per gallon, an exceptionally high rate for minivans, it also ranks among one of the safest models. It is a top pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and earned the best possible rating from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

"Beyond great packaging, class-leading fuel economy, unparalleled safety ratings and cutting-edge family-friendly features, the Odyssey was designed to be fun to drive." said Michael Accavitti, VP of marketing operations for American Honda. "Being honored with a Motorweek Driver's Choice Award for a second consecutive year confirms that the Odyssey remains the best minivan choice for those who truly enjoy driving."

Given the Odyssey's lengthy history of being a consumer favorite, if you're looking to buy a used minivan it may be one of the best choices. Whether you choose an older model like the 2005 version or a newer 2011 model, you know you'll be getting a reliable vehicle. Additionally, if you head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, you'll be getting a great deal.

Why is a clean fuel injector important?

Fuel injectors have become commonplace in most vehicles these days, and they provide much better performance than engines of yesteryear. However, if an injector becomes clogged, this can lead to a number of problems. There are a number of ways to help prevent the issue from occurring and ensure that you have a smooth running vehicle.

To understand how to keep your fuel injector working properly, you may want to familiarize yourself with how it operates in the first place. What makes a fuel injector such a better method than previously-used carburetors is that makes it easier for the gasoline to mix with air. Though it improves performance, gas vapors can solidify on the surface which may lead to a clog.

So just how do you prevent this from happening? One of the most effective ways is to use a higher quality gasoline in your car. Some drivers may balk at filling up with a more expensive fuel, but the higher grade comes with additives that reduce the chances of buildup accumulating and you'll end up with a car that runs smoother than ever.

Still, some people may not want to switch to premium, and that's understandable. However, you'll want to be extra vigilant to ensure that if your fuel injector does become clogged you get it cleaned right away.

Among the most common symptoms of a clogged fuel injector are a noticeable decrease in engine power. If your ride isn't accelerating like it used to or is noticeably sluggish, you might know where to look. Additionally, decreased gas mileage can be a result of poor engine function.

If you think you have a clogged fuel injector, or any other mechanical problem, you may want to head to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center. Located in Jersey City, the center is open to the public and offers everything from repairs to general maintenance.

Insurance Rates Vary Between Vehicles

If you're trying to decide which make to choose for your next car, you should take insurance costs into account. Some vehicles are far more expensive to insure month-to-month, which is why it's a good idea to factor the expense into your budget, especially if you're going to be repaying an auto loan each month as well.

A variety of factors can influence the average insurance cost for a vehicle, including repair expenses, rate of crashes for that model, and the insurer's costs when a vehicle is totaled. High-end models tend to come with higher insurance rates because they're more expensive to fix and tend to be involved in more accidents, according to Fox Business.

Insure.com recently published its list of the least and most expensive vehicles to insure from the 2012 model year, and the Audi R8 Spyder Quattro was found to be the priciest car. The Toyota Sienna LE came in as the least expensive overall, and many other minivans made it into the top 20 list of vehicles with the most affordable insurance rates.

"Minivans have always had a strong showing in our 'least expensive' rankings," said Amy Danise, Insure.com's editorial director. "They regularly prove to be safe, economical vehicles."

Pickups, such as the Hyundai Tucson and the Chevy Silverado, also ranked highly on the less expensive side of the report.

Drivers who are looking to get into their next vehicle can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to find good deals on a variety of makes and models. Whether they're looking for a car with affordable insurance or want to find a used sports car to save money for the insurance payments, NJ Auto is sure to have a number of cars that will suit your needs.

When Do I Change My Antifreeze?

Of all the fluids in a car, few are more important than antifreeze. The vital liquid prevents a car's engine from suffering catastrophic damage and if it has outlived its usefulness, your car may be at significant risk. Despite it's crucial role, many people may not know how often they should change their antifreeze, which could lead to problems down the road.

It can be hard to know exactly when to change your antifreeze. There are a number of different schools of thought and some products tout to last longer than any other brand. However, most experts say that a good rule of thumb is to change the coolant every two or three years, or 30,000 miles. According to Yahoo! Autos, others suggest changing it every year, especially if you drive a car with an aluminum head, block or radiator.

Antifreeze needs to be changed because the chemicals that prevent corrosion can be used up over time. Though it can be hard to tell once it has lost its effectiveness, there are several ways to test how well the liquid is working. The most effective method is using test strips that identify the pH of the coolant. If the strips turns a certain color, the coolant should be changed. According to Yahoo! Autos, many suppliers provide such testing kits.

So once it's time to change the antifreeze there are a few options, but your best bet may be to take your vehicle to a car care center like the one at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Located in Jersey City, the center is open to the public and offers affordable service for regular maintenance as well as repairs.

Chicago Auto Show Features Downsizing Trend

The Chicago Auto Show opened its doors to the press this week, and the cars taking center stage are a bit different than those in years past. Automakers are showcasing their mid-size and compact vehicles this year, a stark change compared to the focus on SUVs at previous conventions, the Chicago Daily Herald reports.

The shift of focus may not come as much of a surprise given that many drivers have chosen to downsize over the last several years. With an unstable economy and gas prices still hovering near $4 a gallon, it makes sense for motorists to ditch the over-sized SUV, and manufacturers have certainly noticed the trend.

"We're seeing a definite migration from larger to smaller [vehicles]," Edmunds.com senior analyst Michelle Krebs told the newspaper. "Middle-America doesn't want to give up the SUV altogether but they're demanding far more in terms of economy and maneuverability."

Perhaps most indicative of the shifting attitudes is the fact that Chrysler unveiled its new Dodge Dart. Though it shares the name with sedan from the '60s and '70s, the redesigned Dart is supposedly much more reliable and wallet-friendly.  It's the first small car released by Chrysler since the manufacturer introduced the Neon.

Though the Chicago Auto Show may offer a glimpse into the future of compact cars, if you're in the market for one right now there are certain models that are safer than others, according to Forbes. One of the best picks is the Chevrolet Cruze, which comes with 10 airbags as well as an OnStar communications system with automatic crash notification.

Whether you're looking to downsize or stick with an SUV, New Jersey State Auto Auction has you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, you're sure to find the right car.

IIHS Safety Ratings Can Help Drivers Find Their Next Car

When it comes time to buy a car, safety tends to be a top concern for many drivers. The Insurance Institutes for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests cars and offers consumers some guidance, by naming its Top Safety Picks. Forbes recently complied a list of small cars named IIHS Top Safety Picks, which can be a useful tool for drivers starting the search for their next cars.

The news source started out with the list of all of the IIHS Top Safety Picks from the 2012 model year, and then narrowed it down to the vehicles with the most safety features that help drivers avoid crashes in the first place and keep them safe in the event of an accident. The Audi A3, for example made the cut because if has front, front-side and side-curtain airbags for front-seat passengers as well as seat-mounted side impact air bags for those sitting in the backseat.

Toyota's Prius found its way onto the list thanks to the optional Lane Departure Warning system, which not only alerts drivers if they are drifting but can register if another vehicle on the road is approaching or traveling in the same direction. The Buick Verano, Chevrolet Cruze, and Chevy Volt all made it onto Forbes' list as well.

The IIHS doesn't just focus on small cars, so drivers who want something bigger are in luck. The Ford F-150 and Honda Ridgeline pickups both had top marks in IIHS testing. SUV fans can look to models like the Volkswagen Touareg, Hyundai Santa Fe, Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer among other for safe options for larger vehicles.

Those looking to get behind the wheel of an affordable, safe vehicle can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The dealer offers affordable prices on a wide variety of used cars, and all of their vehicles are CARFAX certified so you know the vehicle you choose will be reliable.

Kia, Audi Have Best Total Ownership Costs

The cost of a car extends much past its initial price tag. From insurance to maintenance to gas, the expenses can certainly add up. Of course, certain cars are less expensive to own than others, and Kelley Blue Book recently announced its picks for its inaugural Total Cost of Ownership Awards.

The honors were given in a number of different categories, but the cars that performed the best were Kia, tops among all automakers, and Audi, the best luxury brand. Kia set it self above the rest for several reasons, but perhaps most significant were the redesigns of many of its models. The manufacturer managed to create a new image while maintaining the affordable initial price and high gas mileage. Specifically, models like the Soul and Optima performed well.

As for Audi, according to KBB, its biggest strength is that the company's vehicles maintain their value extremely well over time. For most vehicles, depreciation is their biggest expense, but for Audi it's not a large obstacle. Additionally, the automaker's cars have superior fuel economy compared to other brands.

"Car shoppers should take the time to compare vehicles on their consideration lists to fully understand the financial implications involved with cost of ownership," said Juan Flores, director of vehicle valuation for Kelley Blue Book. "While a vehicle might be less expensive up front, the cost of fuel for that model, insurance and other expenditures could make it the less appealing choice for their wallet in the long run."

Whether you're looking for a reliable luxury brand like Audi or a more affordable car like the Kia Sportage, New Jersey State Auto Auction has you covered. With affordable prices up front, you'll be sure to get a good deal regardless of what car you choose.

Car Loan Approval Now Faster Than Ever

As anybody who tried to get an auto loan during the recession can tell you, they were hard to come by. Even people who had relatively good credit found it difficult to get approved for a loan at the height of the economic downturn. Times have changed, however, and not only are lenders more apt to finance people with lower credit scores, they are doing so more quickly than ever before, Bloomberg reports.

The change in policy can largely be attributed to to the fact that housing market remains slow. As a result, banks have been turning to other ways to grow, and with the auto market rebounding, car loans seems like a logical fit.

Among the lenders who approved the most loans was Capital One. According to Bloomberg, Experian Automotive data shows the bank raised its loans by 35 percent in the third quarter of 2011 along with an astonishing 75 percent in the first two quarters.

In addition to being more likely to approve your loan, banks are doing so much faster. Lenders are realizing that consumers credit scores are improving, so painstakingly combing through each application is becoming a less common practice.

"When the market pulled back, the instant decisions really slowed down. You had more manual reviews,"  Melinda Zabritski, director of automotive credit for Experian Automotive, told the news source. "That’s one of the things you’re starting to see change is you’re going back to the automatic approvals. For a while, you really were only doing automatic declines."

If you're looking to take advantage of the trend, you should head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which offers guaranteed credit approval. Not only does the dealer have partnerships with all the big banks, but you can get approved in a matter of minutes.