Automotive & Vehicle Ownership
Prevent vehicle theft, understand North Carolina’s Lemon Law, and know when fluid flushes actually help. Protect your car, assert your rights, and avoid paying for unnecessary or harmful services.
Protect Yourself From Motor Vehicle Theft That Happens More Often in the Warm Summer Months
A motor vehicle is stolen every 40.9 seconds somewhere in the United States, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). That's nearly 775,000 vehicles for a combined value of about $6 billion. NHTSA trend data also shows that vehicle thefts are most common in the warm summer months. Know what to do to prevent vehicle theft and what to do if yours is stolen.
What You Need to Know About North Carolina Lemon Law if You Are Having Repeat Car Problems
North Carolina Lemon Law gives the first owner of a brand new vehicle purchased or leased in North Carolina weighing less than 10,000 pounds certain legal rights when there are serious defects or defects that can't be fixed. The manufacturer may replace the vehicle or give a refund minus usage if the vehicle qualifies during the first two years of ownership, or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Auto Shop Fluid Flushes Are Rarely Needed, Can Cause Damage, and Hardly Ever Fix Problems
Have you seen the displays at your auto shop advertising fluid flushes designed to protect your major vehicle systems? It may seem like a good idea, but fluid flushes should be done sparingly, if ever. Vehicle fluids lose color quickly since color is added mainly to help you distinguish between the different types of fluid, not the fluid's condition. Some flushes even damage sensitive vehicle parts.
How Accurate Are CARFAX Vehicle History Reports and the Various Types of Data They Contain?
If you've ever looked into purchasing a used car, the odds are really good that you've at least heard of CARFAX, if not purchased a CARFAX report. CARFAX is a service that provides historical information on vehicles. Your dealer might be advertising that a vehicle has a clean CARFAX report, which might calm your nerves about the car. But how reliable is the information that CARFAX reports provide?
You're Changing Your Oil Far Too Often if You Still Buy Into the 3,000 Mile Oil Change Myth
The days of the 3,000 mile oil change are long gone, yet many car owners are still wasting money on oil changes done far too often. Even conventional engine oils last much longer than 3,000 miles, but many people blindly follow the oil change sticker in the corner of the windshield. Oil changes are big money makers for shops, which don't want you to know that you can push your oil changes further.
How Do You Protect Yourself From Unfair Charges for Rental Car Damage That You Didn't Cause
You sign the rental car agreement, get the car keys, and drive off only to notice that there was some preexisting damage you didn't see earlier. Will you be charged for that damage when you return the car? Even if you're on your toes and this situation doesn't apply to you, what happens if the rental car gets damaged after you drop it off but before the rental company performs a final inspection?
The Federal Emissions Warranty is Often Overlooked When Your Vehicle Needs Emissions Fixes
Do you know about the Federal Emissions Warranty? Many people have never even heard of it and don't know that it can translate into free repairs for certain emission-related defects. Before you spend money you don't need to spend or go without repairs, check to see if your vehicle qualifies for free emissions system repairs when your check engine light comes on or you fail an emissions inspection.
How To Save Money On A New Car And Survive the Car Dealership Sales Pitches And Tactics
Driving away in your new car is exciting, but the process of buying that car can be daunting. Even if you've purchased several cars before, you probably don't know much about the nuances of the car buying process other than the hassle and headaches it sometimes causes. If you take your time, learn the tricks of the trade, and refuse to let the salesperson have control, you can save a lot of money.
Late Fees for Vehicle Registration Renewals in North Carolina Are Still Surprising Drivers
Since 2016, drivers in North Carolina have seen unexpected late fees when renewing their vehicle registrations. While late fees were planned by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) for some time, it has caused a bit confusion. Some drivers still think that there is a grace period or that the vehicle's registration expires fifteen days after the date on the license plate's sticker.
Here Are Some Things You Can Do Now to Get the Best Gas Mileage on Your Car or Truck
Looking for ways to save money on fuel costs? These days, it seems that everyone is trying to stretch a gallon of gasoline a few extra miles. Some things you do improve mileage while others either don't improve it or end up making it worse. Want to save money by conserving fuel? While not all vehicles are exactly the same, these things apply uniformly to all vehicles.
The New Car Smell We Love Can Be Surprisingly Dangerous or Potentially Toxic to Your Health
When it comes to a brand new car, most people comment about the uniquely pleasant smell inside. But a number of studies suggest that the special new car smell, which comes from chemicals used to manufacture the parts, can be causing serious health issues for vehicle occupants. The studies also note widespread complaints of headaches, lung irritations, inability to focus, and a feeling of fatigue.
When Can Your Car Dealer Void Your Vehicle's Warranty or Deny Auto Warranty Service Claims?
Can a dealer void your car's warranty if you have someone else do routine maintenance on your vehicle? What if you use aftermarket parts to make repairs or to perform your maintenance? What if you have made upgrades to the car, such as installing a new audio system or new lighting? What if your vehicle has undergone body work. The answer is usually no, but it could be yes depending upon the work done.
North Carolina Vehicle Inspection Checklist: What's Checked for a State Safety Inspection
The annual emission and safety vehicle inspection process in North Carolina can be a simple inconvenience or a big nightmare. But too many people worry about seeing a check engine light, which could mean thousands of dollars in repairs, while ignoring the safety component of this annual check. Do you know what has to be in tiptop shape in order to pass the North Carolina Vehicle Safety Inspection?
Does Your Car Have Small Scratches in Its Clear Coat Finish? Use Toothpaste to Remove Them!
Who knew that toothpaste could be so versatile? You use toothpaste to clean and polish your teeth. But have you ever considered using toothpaste to polish out those small scratches in your car's clear coat finish? We're guessing that you haven't. So, the next time your car gets a small scratch, consider reaching for a damp cloth and your favorite tube of toothpaste before more expensive solutions.
Even Though Extended Auto Warranties Can Cost and Promise a Lot, You Probably Wont Use One
Do you really need an extended warranty for your car? Ten years ago, the answer was much easier. You probably didn't need an extended warranty unless you were getting a vehicle that frequently had a lot of problems or was the first model year. Today, the answer is not as simple since vehicles have made big leaps in reliability but also have a host of new gadgets that can cost serious money to fix.
High Octane Gasoline Usually Doesn't Result in Better Performance or Increased Fuel Economy
The car's manual and gas cap both say to use regular unleaded gasoline. But would you get better performance and fuel economy by switching from to mid-grade or premium fuel? If your car runs on regular unleaded gasoline, the only thing you'll notice with a higher grade fuel is that it costs you more to fill up the tank. It's best to stick to the octane rating specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
What Does It Mean to Total Your Car and How Does the Insurance Company Make That Decision?
When it comes to crashes, you often hear that a vehicle was declared a total loss by the auto insurance company. Many people believe that a total loss declaration relates to the amount of damage or the severity of the crash. But vehicles can be declared a total loss as a result of both a major collision or even something as insignificant as a minor dent or ding. It's all about the vehicle's value.
Don't Let Your Auto Insurance Company Steer You From Genuine Parts & Glass to Aftermarket
The last time your car needed body work or a new windshield, did you get Original Equipment Manufacture (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts? If you're like most people, you don't really know. Most people think that the parts they get are the ones that were originally on the car. But that's not always so. You should know what kind of parts are going on your car and should choose OEM parts if you can.
Cheap Gas Near Me: Here Are Some Apps to Help You Find Open Gas Stations and the Lowest Prices
It can be frustrating to pull into a gas station and start pumping only to see that the price across the street is much cheaper. It can be even more frustrating during times of shortage to pull into a station only to see that no gas is available. So what do you do? There are many gas apps available for download that can help you scope out the cheapest stations that actually have fuel for you to buy.
Fuel Injector Cleaner: Believe the Performance Improvement Promises or Steer Clear of It?
We've all seen the advertisements on TV, in magazines, and in the automotive section of our local stores for fuel injector cleaner. The advertisements typically promise performance gains and better fuel economy, not to mention a very convincing before and after comparison photo showing how much cleaner your fuel injectors can become. But how much truth is there to all the hype and advertisements?
Emissions Inspection Not Required for First Three Years or 70,000 Miles for New Vehicles
State inspections got easier for some vehicle owners in 2015, but many are still confused about whether they qualify for an emissions test exemption. Vehicles that were produced within three years of the current year and have less than 70,000 miles on the odometer are exempt from the annual emissions inspection since they are covered by a warranty and very seldom have emission component failures.
Certified Pre-owned Cars Cost More but Can Also Have Costly Problems and a Damage History
You'll often see dealer advertisements about certified pre-owned vehicles that go through rigorous multi-point inspections, which can make them seem safer and more reliable than other used vehicles. The hype might not be worth the higher price tag the vehicles carry. You may be surprised to hear that vehicles with extensive repair histories sometimes receive this supposedly prestigious distinction.
Here's How You Can Spot Hidden Damages and Bad Maintenance on a Used Car Before You Buy It
With the increasing reliability of vehicles today, the used car market is becoming a viable alternative for consumers who want good, quality cars for a less-than-new price. But what should you look for to avoid buying someone else's problem car? Besides checking over your next potential vehicle for mechanical hiccups, you should also be looking closely for any signs of hidden crash or flood damage.
10 and 2 Driving Position Can Be Dangerous Due to Advances in Life-Saving Airbag Technology
The next time you get in your car, forget about what your driving instructor and parents told you way back in the day. Well, don't forget everything you learned about driving. Just forget about the ten and two position for your hands on the steering wheel, which is outdated and could be dangerous. It can sometimes lead to serious injuries in crashes that result in full-speed airbag deployment.
Car Rentals: Supplemental Insurance Coverage and Waivers Usually Not Worth the Extra Money
When you rent a car, you have to make a lot of decisions about supplemental insurance, damage waivers, loss waivers and more. But should you get them? It's usually not worth the extra money. Insurance policies cover most damage done to the rental. But as more rental car companies are charging fees for minor blemishes, loss of use, and depreciation, you might be reconsidering supplemental coverage.
You Shouldn't Ignore These Warning Lights if They Show Up on Your Car's Instrument Cluster
Cars today have lots of bells and whistles. If you are used to driving an older car, some of the new warning lights can seem confusing. While there are indeed new warning lights that have been added with new technology, many haven't changed over the decades. Ignoring these warning lights, which are there to alert you to a potential problem, can leave you stranded or cause further costly damage.
There Are a Number of Things You Shouldn't Do if You're Trying to Buy a Car With Bad Credit
Unfortunately, it's a fact of life. Not everyone out there has a great credit rating and not everyone has a good credit rating. Even if you have really bad credit, you can still make purchases on credit but for a heavy price. If you are one of the unlucky people with bad credit and you're in the market for a new car, there are some things you should never do or you'll find yourself deep in a hole.
Beware of Cars Resurfacing on a Car Lot With No Mention of Water Damage From Recent Floods
Have you ever wondered what happens to flood-damaged cars once the water recedes? Many of those cars turn up for sale on car lots across the country after being sold at auction. Most sellers will disclose the previous flood damage. But sometimes unscrupulous sellers will pass flood damage on to unsuspecting buyers who pay top dollar for cars that end up giving them a lot of problems down the road.
Title Loans May Give You Quick Money but Cost Thousands of Times More in Interest Charges
Are you strapped for cash? You aren't alone. Many people these days could use extra money for bills. To target people who need quick money, some lenders advertise short-term loans, called title loans, that use the collateral of your car. It's similar to a home equity loan, only a title loan can be much riskier and cost you a lot more money in interest charges. It can even cost you the car itself.
Checking Tire Pressures Regularly is Important for Saving Money and Being Safe on the Road
How often do you check the air pressure in your vehicle's tires? It's a simple thing that you can do that can have significant impacts. But most of us probably don't think about tire pressure until the tire light turns on. Checking your tires weekly to ensure they are properly inflated saves a lot fuel, reduces wear and tear on the tires, and reduces your risks of a crash caused by tire problems.
Yo-Yo Auto Scams: Your Financing 'Fell Through' So You Have to Return the Car or Pay More
You've finally filled out the lengthy paperwork for your new or used car and drive it home in triumph. Everything is done, right? But you may get a phone call a few hours, days or even weeks later from your dealer saying that your financing fell through and that you have to return the car or agree to different financing terms. That's illegal. If a dealer tells you this, it's time to get help.
Automotive 101: What Are Some of the Key Things Everyone Should Know About Car Batteries
You've probably stumbled across this article because you suspect a problem with your car's battery. Without it, you would not have power to do anything from starting the engine in subzero temperatures to cruising down the highway on a sunny day. Engines do a lot of work and should get credit for what they do. But without the battery, your engine would just be a several thousand dollar paperweight.
Beware of Graduated Payment Plans That Promise Very Low Payments When You Buy Your Next Car
If you are in the market for a new vehicle, steer clear of dealers that use graduated payment plans to lure you in. Dealers that offer these types of payment plans often use a variety of ads and even paid programming spots aired late at night or on weekends in an effort to hook you with promises of no money down and exceptionally low monthly payments that later skyrocket to insanely high amounts.
Car Dealership Service Advisors Are Making Money From the Services Being Recommended to You
Car dealerships have a bad reputation for high costs, which often comes from the extra money spent for the expertise of the service techs. It's why many people don't get routine maintenance performed there. But some people trust dealerships and have all service performed there, including recommended services. But did you know the person recommending services get a kickback for the services you buy?
Getting Money for an Unwanted Car When a Dealership Won't Pay You a High Trade-In Value
It happens to everyone at one point or another. An old car that provided years of reliable driving was pushed to the side of the driveway in favor of a new model. This often happens when we want a backup vehicle or if the dealership's trade-in offer was abysmally low. If you have an old clunker that isn't worth much, you still might be able to make some money by donating or recycling it.
While Convenient for Large Groups, All 12 and 15 Passenger Vans Have Unique Safety Concerns
Whether it's taking kids to daycare, seniors to events, teams to sporting events, teens to youth programs or just transporting larger groups for church outings, 15-passenger and 12-passenger vans make it very easy to move large groups of people around. But they have unique safety considerations and can be deadlier than a typical vehicle, especially with low tire pressures or inexperienced drivers.
Know the Basics of Auto Insurance Coverage and the Minimum Requirements in North Carolina
What do you know about maintaining the right amount of auto insurance in North Carolina? If you're like most people, you set it and forget it. That might be perfectly fine, but you should get in the habit of checking your coverage limits and adjust them accordingly. Even if you have the minimum auto insurance coverage to be legal in North Carolina, you might not be carrying enough to be protected.
If Your Mechanic Tells You Any of These Things, It's Time to Shop Around for a New Mechanic
Nearly everyone has gone to the local shop for routine auto maintenance only to drive away after paying a lot more in unexpected charges. Most mechanics are honest, hardworking people who only want to help you by pointing out problems you may not know about. But some mechanics want to take you and your wallet for a ride. If any of these things sound like your mechanic, start looking for a new one.