Category: vehicle

May 15

Can You Trade a Car You’re Still Paying For

Many people keep their vehicles until the metaphorical wheels fall off. However, there’s also a decent bit of the car-buying public that elects to trade in their car when they want something new. The problem is that they sometimes want a new vehicle while still paying their car loan. However, you can trade in a car you still owe money on. Plus, if the resale value for your car is good, it may not be too costly.

Here’s how to do it!

Determine the value of your trade in based on the resale value of the car

Resale value is one of the aspects of a car that not everyone considers when buying. However, this will determine how easy and affordable it is to trade in a car you’re still paying for. If you’re lucky enough to have a car worth more than what you owe, you have positive equity in the car. However, you have negative equity if the opposite is true.

Drivers with negative equity in their car will need to pay the difference between what they owe and the trade-in value. This is being upside down in a car loan. According to The Washington Post, this was the case in 1 out of 5 car sales that involved a trade in 2023.

How it works

The process of trading in a car you still owe a balance on isn’t as confusing as most people may think. Buyers with positive equity will have money from the trade-in that they can apply to the cost of the new vehicle. This is why doing research and making on-time payments is necessary.

People with negative equity wanting to trade in a car will pay more over time. Of course, it’s best for these types of buyers to wait until they have paid more of their balance. However, those who need a car may be able to do what’s called rolling over the negative equity into a new car loan.

People with negative equity wanting to trade in a car will pay more over time. Of course, these buyers should wait until they have paid off more of their balance. However, those needing a vehicle may be able to roll over the previous car’s balance into a new loan, which will cost much more down the line.

Trading in a vehicle you still owe money on isn’t always the best decision. However, it is possible and the process can come in handy for some buyers.

May 01

Car Accidents Can Cause Unseen Damage

Getting into a car wreck among the most daunting aspects of driving. Typically, drivers are going about their day, and this traumatic event happens in the blink of an eye. What people should know is that even if there aren’t clear signs that your car needs body repair, there can be unseen damage that can be costly later. This is because the effects car accidents aren’t always immediate.

Car accidents can causes unseen frame damage

People may not always realize it, but the frame of a vehicle is one of its most significant components, as it provides the primary source of structural support. However, it can easily become damaged in a car wreck, and owners may not see the damage. Of course, your car has bumpers, but they don’t provide significant protection for the frame in the event of a car accident.

It’s necessary to have your car inspected by a certified collision expert after a crash to determine if you need car body work done. Frame damage can cause issues with the aspects of the car, such as suspension. Car accidents that damage the frame can also impact wheel alignment and compromise other components, such as the radiator.

Car wrecks can cause electrical problems

People who get into car accidents can also experience electrical problems with their vehicles. Of course, this probably won’t require car body repair, but it can be serious. Essentially, being involved in a collision can cause wires connected to things like lights and other electrical components to loosen.

This part of car accidents may not sound that bad, but what happens when the vehicle behind you can’t see your brake lights? Having electrical problems can easily turn into safety hazards. Over time, there could also be increased damage to the system due to the wires becoming damaged. Naturally, this could also impact the battery, sound system, or any other electrical component.

Miscellaneous damage

Car accidents can cause all sorts of issues with your car that you can’t see. One thing that many people may not consider is the trunk becoming damaged. Of course, some forms of damage would be visible, but problems with locks may either be unseen or arise later. Plus, there could be issues keeping the trunk closed due to other latches. There could also be issues with sealing it and protecting the trunk’s interior from moisture.

According to The Collision Experts, rust is another concern car owners should have after accidents. Over time, the rust can eat through the metal on your car, which no one wants due to the less-than-pleasing appearance. This is an issue where the car would probably need body repair.

In general, there are many ways that unseen damage after car wrecks can present itself. Some will require bodywork on the car, but others can be just as detrimental. Getting your vehicle inspected after a car accident is generally a solid idea. This is also why it’s necessary to get the insurance information of the other driver and to keep proper documentation, which usually means filing a police report after a car wreck.

Apr 21

Common Reasons the Warranty for Your Car Could Be Voided

The warranty in a new car can be voided for a number of reasons.

Understanding the warranty is a significant aspect of owning a new car. This is because it offers protection if something goes wrong. Of course, most people stick with the included warranties. However, there are also car warranty companies that provide third-party coverage. This is important because even the best cars can have issues within the first few years of ownership.

Reasons your car warranty could be voided

Buyers should also know that some actions and circumstances could lead to the voiding of a car warranty. This means you’re on the hook if something does go wrong with your new car. One of the easiest to understand reasons is if you’re involved in a severe car accident that results in a salvaged title. This happens because even if you can use the car after the accident, there’s a high likelihood of future issues that stem from the accident rather than any defects.

The car warranty is one of the most important parts of a vehicle
A car in a flood | igorcorovic via iStock

Misusing the vehicle is another reason. This can be due to racing or using the car to compete in other ways. Additionally, going off-road in a vehicle not intended for this purpose can end in the same result. It can also happen from overloading the car, which includes towing.

Unfortunately, damage from environmental factors such as floods, storms, and earthquakes can cause an owner to lose their car warranty. The same is true for tampering with the odometer because it would make it impossible to determine the amount of miles you’ve driven the car.

Types of car warranties

So, what is a car warranty? Warranties protect the customer from the financial burden that can come from vehicle defects. These would be issues that wouldn’t come from wear and tear. Of course, these issues can often be expensive. Because of this, many people consider how long the warranties last when deciding on a new vehicle. Unfortunately, some of the best cars don’t have the best coverage.

There are seven main types of car warranties from companies:

  • Comprehensive or bumper-to-bumper warranty- As the name suggests, it covers every aspect of your new car
  • Powertrain Warranty- This covers the mechanical aspects of your car.
  • Restraint Systems Warranty-Covers seat belts and airbags.
  • Corrosion- Typically covers replacing body panels that are rusted through. Requires severe corrosion in most cases.
  • Emissions Warranty- Covers aspects of a car that limit emissions. These vary state to state.
  • Warranties specifically for hybrid and EV components
  • Extended Warranties- They take over coverage once the manufacturer’s warranty expires and come at an extra cost.

Of course, there are also car warranty companies. These are third-party options that vehicle owners can acquire if they’d rather seek coverage elsewhere. This can be a good option because they are less restrictive and sometimes offer features such as roadside assistance. According to Consumer Affairs, about 23% of warranty buyers go through third-party car warranty companies.

Warranties add value to even the best cars on the market. However, buyers should be sure to read all contracts to ensure they’re not committing behaviors that could cause them to lose coverage.

Apr 21

2024’s Premier Manual Transmission Vehicles: A Fusion of Performance and Tradition

Shifting Gears: The Changing Role of Manual Transmissions

Manual transmissions have evolved from being standard to becoming a specialized choice in the contemporary auto market. These gearboxes are cherished for their engaging, hands-on driving experience, embodying a sporty feel. Yet, the rise of advanced automatic transmissions, known for superior acceleration and efficiency, has swayed the majority of drivers away from manuals.

Discovering Manual Options in Today’s Auto World

While fewer buyers opt for manual transmissions, several models still cater to enthusiasts. Basic trims of economy cars such as the Mazda 3, Mini Cooper, Nissan Versa, and Volkswagen Jetta retain the manual setup. Performance hatchbacks like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf GTI, and sports sedans like the Subaru WRX and BMW M2, continue to champion the manual tradition, providing an immersive driving pleasure.

Manual Transmissions: Rare in SUVs and Performance Cars

The intersection of manual driving and SUV utility remains limited, with the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler standing as the few equipped choices. In the realm of high-performance cars, manual options are diminishing but persist in select models like Porsche’s 911 and Cayman. This scarcity underscores a unique appeal for aficionados, merging the excitement of manual control with a touch of automotive nostalgia.

Analytical Insights by iSeeCars

iSeeCars conducts an extensive analysis of these manual vehicles, ranking them by reliability, resale potential, and safety features. The analysis provides details such as transmission types—from five to seven-speed manuals—and essential metrics like fuel economy and price points. Such thorough evaluations equip buyers with crucial insights, enhancing the car-buying journey from a mere transaction to a memorable acquisition.

Apr 21

7 Luxury Vehicle Features That Are Totally Over The Top

Being driven as you sit in the back of a Rolls-Royce is a benchmark of luxury for the privileged few. However, when the wealthy become accustomed to the fineries in life, where do you go from there? Rolls-Royce has addressed this problem by recreating the infinite depths of the universe in the leather roof lining of models like the Phantom, Ghost, or Wraith Eagle VIII with its optional Starlight Headlining feature.

The luxury brand achieves this by installing between 800 and 1,600 fiber optic lights, individually and painstakingly set at the correct depth in perforations to ensure just the right amount of twinkle. Prices depend on the number of lights and customizations that are opted for, but at this point, cost is likely irrelevant to the deep-pocketed consumer.

Once installed, the lights are activated and controlled from the car’s infotainment console and can be adjusted for brightness. The “stars” can be customized in different colors, depict the constellations as they were at any point in recent history, or create patterns, such as a family crest or company logo.

Rolls-Royce calls the resulting ambiance “magical,” although some might also see it as an over-the-top and ostentatious addition to an already impressive vehicle. Rolls-Royce’s motto is “Inspiring Greatness,” and whether the Starlight Headlining achieves this is subjective. It certainly helps to differentiate between those who value their vehicle for its performance and specifications and those who use it to project an image, though.

Jan 18

Dream Winter Vehicles: What Would You Choose If Money Was No Object?

Imagining the Perfect Winter Ride

The recent snowfall on the East Coast has sparked thoughts about ideal winter vehicles. But not just any typical winter beater—let’s dream bigger. Picture a vehicle that makes the cold, snowy months not only bearable but exciting.

Your Ultimate Winter Vehicle

What would be your perfect winter ride if money wasn’t a constraint? Share your wildest winter fantasies, unbounded by practicality or reality. Life’s too short for boring answers.

Some Winter-Worthy Inspirations

Imagine cruising through the snow in a Mercedes G-Wagon or a rugged Sherp. Maybe you fancy Santa’s Rocket Sleigh from Elf, an entire bobsled team, or the powerful Ram 1500 TRX. These vehicles would make winter driving a thrilling experience.

Unleash Your Imagination

Think of the statement you’d make in a rocket-powered sleigh fueled by holiday spirit. Or, if you prefer a more conventional choice, a G-Wagon or a supercharged Land Rover Defender would offer both style and performance, with their V8 engines and classic SUV charm.

Share Your Winter Dreams

So, what’s your ideal winter vehicle? Forget about financial limitations—after all, that’s what credit cards and long-term loans are for. Share your winter vehicle fantasies and let’s dream of the ultimate ride for snowy adventures.

Dec 18

Juvenile driver crashes vehicle through Great Clips in northwest Harris County

A woman was injured after crashing a vehicle into a building Monday morning in northwest Harris County, according to Harris County Pct. 4 constable deputies.

The crash was reported at the Great Clips, located in the 7300 block of Louetta Road, near Stuebner Airline.

Constable deputies said the woman was taken to a local hospital for minor injuries.

No other injuries were reported.

It is unknown what caused the driver to crash into the building.

The initial report from Constable Mark Herman’s Office stated that the driver was a juvenile but later made the correction on Facebook that it was an elderly woman.

Nov 21

Discover the Ultimate Off-Grid Experience with the Living Vehicle HD30 Travel Trailer

Embrace Off-Grid Luxury with the Living Vehicle HD30

For those seeking the pinnacle of off-grid living, the Living Vehicle HD30 offers an unmatched experience in travel trailer luxury. Designed for full-time living, this trailer combines advanced technology with stylish comfort, allowing you to explore remote locations without sacrificing modern amenities. The HD30 promises a seamless blend of adventure and comfort, making your off-grid dreams a reality.

Features That Define the HD30

The HD30 is engineered to provide all the essentials needed for an extended stay off the grid. It boasts state-of-the-art solar power systems, a high-efficiency water filtration setup, and a spacious, well-appointed interior that feels like home wherever you park. This travel trailer not only meets the demands of off-grid living but does so with elegance and sustainability in mind, ensuring a unique and enjoyable journey every time.

Enhancing Your Off-Grid Lifestyle

Investing in the Living Vehicle HD30 means more than just a travel trailer; it’s a gateway to a new way of living. Its design prioritizes energy efficiency and self-sufficiency, making it ideal for those who wish to escape the conventional and embrace a more adventurous lifestyle. As you hit the road, the HD30’s innovative features and comfortable amenities will enhance your travel experience, proving that off-grid living can be both practical and luxurious.

Nov 20

Military Vehicle and SUV Collision Shuts Down Marshfield Street

Marshfield Street Closure Due to Collision

On Monday, a significant collision between a military vehicle and an SUV resulted in the closure of Plain Street in Marshfield, Massachusetts. Local authorities reported that the accident occurred between Flaggler and Old Plain streets, leading to a temporary road closure. Thankfully, the street has since been reopened to traffic, but the incident caused a considerable disruption in the area.

Ongoing Investigation and Updates

The Marshfield Police Department initially handled the situation but has since directed inquiries to the Massachusetts State Police for further details. This shift indicates an ongoing investigation into the cause and circumstances surrounding the crash. NBC10 Boston is actively seeking more information from state officials to provide a comprehensive update on the situation.

Jul 21

Tesla Announces Limited-Time Opportunity to Transfer Full Self-Driving Beta to New Vehicles

A Unique Chance for Tesla Owners

In a recent development from Tesla’s Q2 2023 earnings call, the company unveiled an unprecedented opportunity for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta owners. Between July 20 and September 30, 2023, Tesla owners can transfer their FSD Beta to a new Tesla if they trade in their current vehicle. This one-time offer allows owners to upgrade without having to repurchase the costly FSD package, typically priced at $15,000 or available through a monthly subscription.

Transfer Conditions and Requirements

To take advantage of this offer, owners must adhere to specific conditions. The FSD Beta must be removed from the old vehicle and can only be transferred once to a new Tesla. The process involves forfeiting the FSD Beta from the current vehicle, which Tesla will handle up to a week before the new vehicle’s delivery. It’s important to note that this transfer is irreversible and cannot be combined with other promotions or applied retroactively. For a seamless experience, ensure to review all terms and conditions carefully to make the most of this limited-time offer.