Overall Quality of Vehicles Has Seen Vast Improvements in Recent Years

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Posted in Auto Industry News

The fear of purchasing a "lemon" when shopping for a used car may soon be nothing more than an anecdote to tell future generations. According to The Associated Press, global competition is behind the increased quality of newer models in the past five or so years. Higher quality vehicles are less likely to require auto repair as long as drivers keep up with regular car maintenance.

J.D. Power and Associates recently released the results of this year's Vehicle Dependability Study, which examines the lasting quality of three-year-old vehicles. The results showed a 13 percent improvement across the board from 151 problems per 100 (PP100) vehicles in 2011 to just 132 PP100 for vehicles manufactured in 2009. Since the overall quality has improved across the board, drivers have plenty of options when it comes time to purchase their next vehicle, whether they opt for a new or used model.

"It's very hard to find products that aren't good anymore," Jeremy Anwyl, CEO of Edmunds, told the news source. "In safety, performance and quality, the differences just don't have the material impact."

Until very recently, Honda and Toyota dominated the market for compact cars, but the push for more fuel-efficient vehicles has made smaller cars much more popular among consumers. This rising trend led other automakers to develop their own lineup of smaller vehicles, such as Ford's Focus and General Motor's Chevy Cruze and Sonic.

Whether drivers want to get behind the wheel of a used Honda Civic or Hyundai Elantra, New Jersey State Auto Auction is sure to have a number of affordable makes and models right up their alley. All of their vehicles are CARFAX certified so consumers know they'll be getting a good deal.

Trend of Keeping Cars Longer Continues

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Posted in Auto Loans & Financing News

A new Polk study reveals that drivers are continuing to hold on to their vehicles for longer before trading them in. There has been a overall 23 percent increase in the average length of time drivers will wait to purchase their next vehicle. Those who buy new are driving their vehicles an average of just about six years, and used car owners have their vehicles about four years on average before they head back to the dealer. This means that more motorists will need work done on their cars to keep them on the road, which may place a strain on the automotive aftermarket industry.

"As the aftermarket prepares to service this aging vehicle population, this creates concerns about appropriate parts inventory," said Mark Seng, global aftermarket practice leader at Polk.  "As a result of our analysis, we're currently working with customers in the aftermarket to help them prepare for increasing demand throughout the entire supply chain."

More older vehicles on the road will likely lead to an increased demand for repairs and maintenance, as getting some work done on a car tends to be less expensive than replacing a vehicle. However, many drivers have been putting off purchases since the recession began in 2008, and experts believe there could be a surge in car buying this year as those vehicles need to be replaced. The New York Times reports that car sales have already started strong in January.

Whether drivers want to keep their current vehicles or trade them in for another model, they need look no further than New Jersey State Auto Auction. NJ Auto offers a wide variety of used makes and models at affordable prices, and they're all CARFAX certified, so consumers know they're getting reliable rides. The Total Car Care center, which is open to the public, can take care of repairs and tuneups for those who are not quite ready for their next car.

Researching Vehicle History a Must

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Posted in How To

Used cars provide consumers with a number of distinct advantages, not the least of which is that purchasing one can be a little easier on their wallet. However, drivers can sometimes be lulled into a false sense of security and may actually end up spending more money in the long run. To avoid falling victim to many common purchasing pitfalls, buyers should make sure to ask some basic questions during the process, The Palm Beach Post reports.

Perhaps the most important thing to do before you buy a used car is to look at the vehicle's history. There are a number of resources available for you to do so, including vehiclehistory.gov, which contains reports on specific makes and models. It also provides tips on how to accurately read a report. Despite the importance of being familiar with a car's history, few people think to investigate further than its appearance.

According to the newspaper, there are a few areas you may want to inspect before you purchase the car to ensure it has not experienced more wear and tear than is being revealed. For instance, you may want to glance at at the steering wheel to see if it's worn smooth. You should also look for signs of excessive wear in places like the armrest, floor mats and pedals.

There are also some dangers associated with buying from independent sellers, since they are not required to guarantee a car's road-readiness. You may want to instead visit dealers like New Jersey State Auto Auction instead. In addition to offering a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices, all of New Jersey Auto's vehicles are CARFAX certified so you know you're getting a reliable ride.

Glass Cockpit, Smart Engines Among Tech Trends

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Posted in General Auto News

Over the last decade cars have not only become more fuel-efficient but they have also performed better. However, perhaps the greatest innovations of all have been in the technological realm, as vehicles come equipped with more gadgets than ever before. That likely won't change anytime soon and according to USA Today, there are a few trends that consumers should expect to see in the coming years.

Many auto experts believe that the days of physical gauges on the dashboard are numbered. In their place will be digital instruments ranging from the speedometer to the odometer to the gas gauge. This so-called "glass cockpit" has made its way into a number of more affordable models and that trend will likely only grow in the near future, according to the publication.

Engines may also become smarter as technology advances. Experts say that engines may be able to recognize certain driving patterns and change accordingly. For instance, USA Today reports that Ford has demonstrated that an engine may be able to change how much gas it uses depending on the situation – whether it be city or highway driving.

Another popular advancement will make cars safer than they ever have been. While driver assistance is common in some higher-end vehicles, analysts say that sensors warning motorists of everything from whether or not they're drifting to if there is a car in their blind spot could become commonplace.

Technological advances may make driving more enjoyable, but it does make regular maintenance even more important. Thanks to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center, that's not an issue. Located in Jersey City and open to the public, the center provides everything from scheduled upkeep to repairs to keep your car running smoothly.

Toyota Tundra, Corolla Among Best Used Cars for Under $8K

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Posted in General Auto News

Used cars can offer drivers a reliable set of wheels at a fraction of the cost of new models, but you have to know where to look. There are certainly vehicles that are simply better deals and if you're looking to keep your spending under $8,000, The Street reports that there are a few options that stand above the rest.

Kia has been rising in popularity in recent years, so it's no wonder that the 2008 Kia Rio made it on the list. Kelley Blue Book values the car at around $7,680 and given that it's just four years old, it may be the closest thing you can get to new for such an affordable price.

Anybody looking for a pickup without a steep price tag should consider the 2002 Toyota Tundra. According to the website, its KBB retail value is a modest $5,950, and although it's 10 years old, given Toyota's track record of reliable vehicles that should not be a problem – especially if you take good care of it.

"Toyota was an underdog in pickup trucks then, and it still is, but the Tundra has proven to be a good truck and it meets all the [reliability] expectations that come with a Toyota,"  Jason Allan, the kbb.com managing editor, told the website.

Similar to the Tundra, the 2002 Toyota Corolla is a good choice as well. With a price tag of just over $6,000 the Corolla is likely to remain among the most popular used cars on the road.

Regardless of what vehicle you're looking for, New Jersey State Auto Auction will have you covered. With a wide variety of makes and models there's sure to be one to suit your needs.

Common Misconceptions Regarding Motor Oil

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Posted in How To

Motor oil is one of the most important components of a car but all too often it is surrounded by myths. Knowing what's true and what's false about this vital liquid is crucial in maintaining your car, however it can sometimes be difficult to separate fact from fiction.

One of the most pervasive misconceptions surrounding motor oil is how often it needs to be changed. Most people abide by the rule that you should change it every 3,000 miles or three months – whichever you hit first. This may have been true in years past, but according to Edmunds, it's an outdated credo. There have been a lot of advancements made with motor oil and you can go by what's recommended in your auto manual. In 2010 for instance, the average recommended interval was about 7,800 miles rather than 3,000.

Another common myth is that using synthetic oil is better for your car and may actually improve your fuel economy. While synthetic products are often considered a better lubricant, there is not a lot of evidence to back up any claims of improved gas mileage and the extra money may not be worth it.

"There is a school of thought that says the synthetic oils are slipperier and allow the engine to spin easier – I don't know that I believe that," auto expert Ryan Stark told Edmunds.

While many people may change their own oil, going to a professional will ensure it's done correctly, so you may want to visit New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center to get it done. With a location in Jersey City that's open to the public, drivers can get easily get everything from repairs to general upkeep.

CUVs a Favorite Choice Among Consumers

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Posted in General Auto News

Hatchbacks have become increasingly popular in the United States, but consumers who are looking for a new or used car are still most likely to have only two options in mind – crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) or mid-size sedans. In particular, CUVs have experienced the greatest growth in consumer interest in recent years and Motor Trend does not expect the fad to die out any time soon.

When people are in the market for a new or used car, they have a growing tendency to look at vehicles in pairs. Experts say that drivers will often end up choosing between the two segments and manufacturers are apparently taking note of the change in consumer preference.

"We're calling this the supersegment, because people cross-shop these so much," Samantha Hoyt, marketing manager for the new Ford Fusion, told the publication. "It'll be Camry-Escape, Camry-Fusion, Escape-Accord, that whole CR-V-Escape, they're all shopping each other."

Ford has been especially successful in pushing its popular Escape. In advance of the release of the much-anticipated 2013 model of the CUV, Ford has sold many older models and through November 2011 had managed to sell 228,719 Escapes.

Though longtime CUV favorties like the Escape, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV-4 are still very much popular choices, Kia has been moving in on their territory. The South Korean company was recently named as the brand with the best overall cost of ownership by Kelley Blue Book thanks in no small part to its best selling CUV – the Sorento.

Whether you're looking for a used Ford, Honda or Kia, New Jersey State Auto Auction is a good place to go. With a wide variety of makes and models at affordable prices you'll be sure to find the right car for you.

U.S. DOT announces guidelines to reduce distracted driving

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Posted in Auto Industry News

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently released the first federally-issued guidelines relating to in-car technology that may contribute to distracted driving. According to the National Highway traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distractions such as using cellphones, adjusting the radio or even talking to passengers, are involved in about 20 percent of car accidents.

Making calls and texting behind the wheel are two of the worst offenders, but most state laws only apply to handheld devices and hands-free technology like Bluetooth is still acceptable. Even if a driver's hands and eyes are on the road, talking on the phone takes their mind off the task at hand, which still counts as a distraction, according to the NHTSA.

The DOT is now calling for automakers to take a more practical and safety-first approach to including potentially-distracting technology in their vehicles. The guidelines recommend that automakers design their electronics to be easier and faster to use. They also call for drivers to be able to operate the technology with one hand, so the other can remain on the steering wheel when an adjustment needs to be made on the go. This does not apply to devices that aid in safety, such as lane-departure warnings and blind spot alert systems.

"Distracted driving is a dangerous and deadly habit on America's roadways – that's why I've made it a priority to encourage people to stay focused behind the wheel," said DOT Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "These guidelines are a major step forward in identifying real solutions to tackle the issue of distracted driving for drivers of all ages."

Distractions increase the risk of crashing, and if this occurs a vehicle may need a few repairs to get back to working order. Drivers can take their vehicles to New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center, located in Jersey City and open to the public, for all of their mechanical needs, whether they've been in an accident or just need regular maintenance.

New Car Smell: Pleasant but Harmful?

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Posted in General Auto News

It turns out that price may not be the only reason why you should buy a used car over a new one. Results of a new study suggest that the so-called "new car smell" could actually make you sick. The scent some people find so appealing is sometimes caused by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that may damage your health, USA Today reports.

The research was conducted at the Ecology Center, which analyzed the materials used in the construction of the interior of new cars. It found that some models are healthier for drivers than others, with the Honda Civic having the lowest amount of dangerous chemicals of all new models. On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport had the highest levels.

Specifically, the Outlander Sport contain a number of harsh chemicals such as bromine and antimony-based flame retardants as well as chromium-treated leather. The car's seating contained 400 parts-per-million of lead.

Although it might seem like bad news, automakers are actually taking steps correct the problem. Jeff Gearhart, research director at the Ecology Center, told USA Today that "it's a positive story, because the industry is working on" finding new materials and chemicals that may be less hazardous.

The new car smell may have a somewhat pleasant scene to some, but if it is harmful to your health, is it worth it? Automobiles that are several years old may no longer have that new car smell but will still run just as well. New Jersey State Auto Auction has plenty of used cars available to the public at affordable prices, and with a wide variety of makes and models there is something for everyone.

Toyota, Lexus the Most Dependable Brands

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Posted in Auto Brands News, Toyota

Appearance, performance and fuel-economy are all important things to consider when purchasing a car, but perhaps the greatest criteria of all is how reliable it is. After all, if your ride doesn't last very long, it doesn't matter how sleek it look or how many miles you get per tank of gas. A recent study from J.D. Power and Associates revealed what consumers feel are the most dependable cars, and Toyota dominated.

The venerable Japanese automaker was the highest-rated non-premium nameplate, and its sister brand Lexus took the top honors in the luxury sector. Additionally, another Toyota offshoot – Scion – came in fifth place after a 17-spot jump compared to last year.

"We are extremely pleased that not only did we win awards in eight of the 14 model segments, but that in two segments we finished one-two and made the podium in 12 segments overall", said Jim Lentz, President and Chief Operating Officer Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

While Toyota and Lexus were the top performers, there were some American-made brands that had high marks as well. In particular, the Ford Explorer was honored for its dependability, as were two General Motors products, the Buick Lucerne and Chevrolet Equinox.

Of course, part of a vehicle's dependability is how well you take care of it. J.D. Power says that if you own any of the cars on the list and maintain it reasonably well over its lifespan, chances are you can trade it in for a high value when the time comes.

To ensure that your car lives up to its dependability rating, you should visit New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center. Located in Jersey City and open to the public, the center provides everything from repairs to general upkeep.