Theft is most often a crime of opportunity - if your car looks easy to break into or steal, thieves will be drawn to it.
1 Park your car in an area that is well-lit and near lots of people.
Step 2 Keep the windows rolled up and the car locked, even if it's parked at your own house.
Step 3 Keep valuables in your car hidden. Consider buying a removable stereo face to keep in your trunk or carry with you.
Step 4 Consider buying a visible mechanical locking device to lock the steering wheel, and/or an auto theft alarm system.
Step 5 Install locking lug nuts to prevent your custom wheels or externally mounted spare tire from being stolen.
Step 6 Keep in mind when purchasing a new car that some makes and models have a higher incidence of theft than others.
Step 7 Keep your car registration and insurance card with you instead of in the glove compartment so that thieves cannot produce these documents if stopped by police.
Step 8 Disconnect either the battery or the coil wire from the distributor cap if you have to leave your car unattended for an extended period of time. Car thieves will often not have the time or the desire to diagnose why the car won't start.
Step 9 Take your ignition keys to a locksmith or car dealer to remove the key number, which thieves can use to have the keys duplicated (jot down the number for your records first).
Step 10 Etch the vehicle identification number (VIN) onto the doors and fenders of your car with an electric engraver for extra protection. This helps to discourage professional car thieves, who will have to remove the markings to resell the car.
-- How to Avoid Car Theft
Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death for children. Take extra care in choosing and installing a child safety seat, and follow these guidelines from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
1 Be sure that your car has a seatbelt (lap belt and shoulder belt) for every child you will be transporting.
Step 2 Read the instructions for your vehicle's seatbelt system, as well as those for child safety seats and booster seats, for proper installation and use.
Step 3 Install a rear-facing infant seat in the back seat for children under 1 year old who weigh less than 20 lbs. Children of this age who weigh over 20 lbs should be secured in a seat approved for heavier infants.
Step 4 Install a toddler seat for children who are at least 1 year old and weigh less than 40 pounds.
Step 5 Set up a booster seat for children who are 4 to 8 years old and weigh between 35 and 80 pounds (or are at least 35 inches tall). A booster seat raises the child so that the vehicle's lap and shoulder belts will fit him or her snugly.
Step 6 Children under 12, whether in a safety seat or not, should be put in the back seat of the vehicle and properly restrained, using both the lap belt and the shoulder belt.
Step 7 Move the front seat as far away from the dashboard as possible if the car has no back seat, and restrain the child as appropriate to his or her weight, height and age.
Step 8 Even after careful installation, check each time you buckle up to make sure that straps are not twisted, buckles are fully locked and your child is restrained securely.
Tips & Warnings
If your vehicle has only lap belts, you can have shoulder belts installed by a dealer or repair facility.Read the instructions for your vehicle's seatbelt system, as well as those for child safety seats and booster seats, for proper installation and use.
Even after careful installation, check each time you buckle your child up that he or she is properly restrained, taking care that straps are not twisted and buckles are locked.
You can have airbag switches installed, which allow you to turn off airbags when you have children in the car.
To have this done, you'll need to fill out an authorization form with the NHTSA.
Children should be placed in the back seat away from air bags, which can cause injury or death.
If you are not sure what safety equipment to use for your child, consult your pediatrician.
-- How to Buckle Up a Small Child
Learn tips on how much to pay for monthly payments on a used car and the process of car buying in this free video on purchasing a vehicle.
-- How to Buy a Used Car : Average Monthly Payments for a Used Car
Learn what a salvage title is and how to avoid them when shopping for a used car with expert car buying advice in this free online used car video clip.
-- How to Buy a Used Car : What is a Salvage Title?
No need to pay a mechanic for this job - air filters are inexpensive and easily changed. You should change your car's air filter every 15,000 miles.
1 Open the hood.
Step 2 Locate your air filter, usually found on top of the engine. On cars with carburetors it is in a round piece of metal about the size of a medium pizza; fuel-injected cars have square or rectangular air filter housings that may be off to the side of the engine.
Step 3 Unscrew or unclamp the top to the air filter housing.
Step 4 Lift out the air filter. It should be a round or rectangular filter made of paper or plastic, with a rubber rim.
Step 5 Clean the area with a vacuum cleaner or seal the top of the carburetor. This will keep debris out of the carburetor as you continue to clean the housing.
Step 6 Clean out any dirt or bugs from the inside of the air filter housing with a rag.
Step 7 Replace the filter with a new filter. Consult your manual to determine the proper filter for your car.
Radiator fluid, or coolant, is the most important part of your car's cooling system, which protects your engine from overheating. Low coolant can lead to a breakdown and expensive repairs.
1 Note that only much older models of cars (pre-1970s) require you to add coolant directly to the radiator. Newer vehicles feature a reservoir tank that you can access anytime (except German and Swedish cars, in which the reservoir is under pressure when the engine's hot). If you're driving an older model, see Section 2.
Step 2 Pull the hood release lever under the dashboard.
Step 3 Walk around the front of the car, reach under the hood, find the latch and squeeze it. As you squeeze the latch, pull up and open the hood.
Step 4 Look for the plastic reservoir tank, which should at least be holding some residue of coolant, which is normally green (although there are also red versions available on the market). It's often labeled, located near the radiator and has a hose leading to the radiator.
Step 5 Unscrew the cap and add coolant to the "full" line. Coolant is a 50-50 mixture of water and antifreeze, but you can add stricktly water if the reservoir's empty and your car's in danger of overheating.
Adding Fluid to an Old Car
1 Make sure the engine is cool before adding coolant directly to the radiator. If the car has been running recently, wait at least 30 minutes before unscrewing the radiator cap.
Step 2 Pull the hood release lever under the dashboard.
Step 3 Walk around the front of the car, reach under the hood, find the latch and squeeze it. As you squeeze the latch, pull up and open the hood.
Step 4 Find the radiator cap at the very front of the engine, near the hood latch.
Step 5 Rotate and remove the cap, using a rag. When in doubt about whether it's safe to unscrew the cap, use several rags and unscrew the lid slowly.
Step 6 Look into the radiator. If the fluid doesn't reach the radiator's top just below the opening for the cap, add coolant.
Tips & Warnings
The hose leading from the reservoir to the radiator is a tip-off that you aren't pouring coolant into your windshield wiper reservoir.
If the car is overheating, don't try to remove the radiator cap. You could be seriously burned.
Coolant doesn't get used up--if the reservoir is low, your car may have a leak.
Coolant is poisonous, but that won't stop pets from drinking it (it tastes sweet to them); don't leave it lying around.
-- How to Check and Add Radiator Fluid
Checking your car's automatic transmission fluid (ATF) every month and whenever the transmission isn't shifting smoothly is necessary to optimize performance of many components of your vehicle. In addition to following these steps, consult your owner's manual which will give you the intervals in which the fluid should be changed.
1 Park your car on level ground and start the engine, leaving the gear in neutral or park. Wait for the engine to warm up. Unless your owner's manual directs otherwise, allow the engine to continue running throughout this procedure.
Step 2 Find the ATF dipstick, located at the back of the engine. The ATF dipstick is often shorter than the engine oil dipstick but otherwise looks similar. If you're lucky, it will be labeled.
Step 3 Pull on the dipstick and completely remove it. It may be very long.
Step 4 Wipe the dipstick with a rag, replace it in the engine, push it all the way in and remove it again.
Step 5 Look at the dipstick's tip. Observe whether there are two different full markings: one for cold readings and one for warm readings. If so, read the one for 'Warm.' If the ATF does not come up to the line marked 'Full,' add ATF.
Step 6 Add ATF (see Tips) into the hole that the dipstick came out of (yes, that little tiny hole). Use a funnel with a long, narrow neck. Add only a little at a time, and check the level with the dipstick after each time. It's easy to add ATF but fairly difficult to take it out if you add too much.
Step 7 Put the dipstick all the way back in when you are done.
-- How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid
Old radiator hoses or loose clamps can cause a coolant leak, which will lead to overheating and expensive repairs. Check hoses periodically and replace them if they're aged or leaking.
1 Find the hood release, usually located beneath the dash. Pull.
Step 2 Walk around the front of the car. Find the hood latch. The hood latch is usually located at the front edge of the hood. Depress the latch. While depressing the latch, lift and open the hood.
Step 3 Locate the radiator. It's always at the front of the car.
Step 4 Locate the radiator hoses. Two hoses should be attached to the radiator: an upper hose at the top and a lower hose at the bottom.
Step 5 With the engine cold, squeeze each hose. If the hose feels "crunchy" or brittle, it's old and needs replacing.
Step 6 Check the clamps at either end of both hoses. If the hose is damp or wet at the clamp, tighten or replace the clamp. The clamps should be tight enough that the hose cannot be turned or moved.
Step 7 Check the hose for cracks, tears, or frayed ends. If you find any, replace the hose.
Step 8 Close the hood.
Tips & Warnings
Have the radiator hoses replaced when you're having a new water pump or radiator installed.
If the car is hot or warm, wait until it cools down - if the hose bursts or slips, you can be scalded with hot water or antifreeze.
-- How to Check Radiator Hoses
Checking your engine oil is an essential task in car maintenance. Without the proper level of oil, your engine is put under unwanted stress and can become damaged severly. It is highly recommended to check your oil twice a month.
Step 1 Park the car on a level surface.
Step 2 To get the most accurate reading you want to check your oil when the engine is cold.
Step 3 Pull the hood release lever under the dashboard.
Step 4 Walk around the front of the car, reach under the hood, find the latch and squeeze it. As you squeeze the latch, open the hood.
Step 5 Find the dipstick. This is a long piece of metal sticking out of the engine with a loop at one end, usually located near the center of the engine. Many times it will be labeled with the word "Oil" or brightly colored.
Step 6 Pull on the loop and draw the dipstick all the way out.
Step 7 Wipe the oil off the dipstick with a paper towel or shop rag.
Step 8 Replace the clean dipstick, making sure to push it all the way in, then pull it back out and hold it horizontally in front of you.
Step 9 Look at the pointy end of the dipstick. If the oil on the dipstick is below the line marked "full," add a small amount of oil. Many dipsticks simply have 2 lines with a cross hatch design in between. The oil level should be halfway between these 2 lines.
Step 10 Add the oil by unscrewing the oil filler cap, which is about 3 inches in diameter and located on the very top of the engine. It will usually be marked with the words "Engine Oil".
Step 11 Check the oil level with the dipstick after adding oil. Add more if necessary. It's easier to add more oil several times, then to take oil out.
Step 12 Put the oil filler cap back on and secure it tightly.
Tips & Warnings:
Your owner's manual will tell you what type of motor oil your engine requires. Many cars and trucks use either 5w30 or 10w30It is not recommended to mix different brands of oil. Each company puts different chemicals and additives in their oil.
Some oils will react negatively with other oils causing them to brake down and reduce their life and effectiveness.Always keep 2 quarts of oil in your car.The oil lubricating system is a closed system: The oil does not get used up or go anywhere.
If it's consistently low, there may be an oil leak. Leaks always get worse, and losing all the engine oil will require expensive repairs and/or replacing the engine.
-- How to Check Your Oil
Car manufacturers are now offering alarm systems with their cars. However, these alarms often do not provide adequate security. To be more certain that your car is protected, get an aftermarket alarm.
1 Check out magazines that cover car alarms, such as Auto Sound & Security and Car Audio & Electronics. Get an idea of what kinds of features different alarms have.
Step 2 Contact well-known manufacturers and ask for product literature. Top companies include Directed Electronics, Clifford, Crimestopper, Alpine, Omega Research & Development, Avital, and Code-Alarm.
Step 3 Determine which features your car has that match it to an alarm. For example, if your car does not have power door locks, you won't be able to use this feature with an alarm.
Step 4 Consider how you use your car. Do you leave things of value in the trunk? Do you travel in the car alone at night? Do you park your car outside? Your evaluation will help you choose an alarm with the features you need most.
Step 5 Make a prioritized list of features you want in a system. Use the list to question a salesperson about features of particular alarms. If you can't afford the perfect alarm, eliminate features one by one.
Step 6 Choose an alarm from a major manufacturer, which will probably have dealers around the country in case you have problems on the road.
Step 7 Ask about manufacturers' warranties and the shop's labor warranties.
Tips & Warnings
If you purchase an alarm and have it installed, make sure the salesperson or installer shows you exactly how everything works.
Refer to the product literature and test the system to make sure all the features work properly.
-- How to Choose a Car Alarm
Your car stereo is the centerpiece of your whole audio system. To make sure the stereo you choose meets all your needs, follow these tips.
1 Read car audio magazines such as "Car Audio & Electronics" and "Auto Sound & Security." They will tell you which products are available and what features they have.
Step 2 Make a prioritized list of the features you want in a stereo.
Step 3 Write down the make, model and year of your car.
Step 4 Get a cassette or CD of your favorite music.
At the Store
1 Ask a salesperson to suggest stereos based on your prioritized feature list. If the choices bust your budget, eliminate features one by one until you find at least three stereos you can afford.
Step 2 Listen to each stereo, using your own music, and select the one that sounds best.
Step 3 Make sure your choice is easy to operate.
Step 4 Check that everything you need is in the stereo's packing box. The package should include a faceplate, carrying case, sleeve, main plugs (some have one, some have two), one or two metal keys (for removing the stereo), an owner's manual and an installation manual.
Tips & Warnings
If you choose a radio/cassette as your base unit, make sure it can command a CD changer. (You can add one later.)Choose a stereo with a built-in power source.
A good stereo should have four channels so it can drive four speakers.
Select a stereo with high-level outputs; if you plan to add an amplifier later, choose a stereo that also has low-level outputs.
Pick a stereo with a fader so you can adjust the relative volume of the front and rear speakers.
-- How to Choose a Car Stereo
Adding an amplifier to your car stereo will improve the sound dramatically. Here's what you need to know to choose one that's right for you.
At the Shop
Step 1 Ask a salesperson or installer what power rating you should consider, based on your existing stereo, speakers and musical taste.
Step 2 Select two or three amplifiers to compare.
Step 3 Compare amplifiers' power ratings using the same parameters - ohms rating, voltage or frequency. (Most people in the industry use ohms rating as the standard of comparison, and set the standard at 4 ohms.)
Step 4 Ask the salesperson to plug the possible amplifiers into a radio and speakers that are similar to the ones in your car.
Step 5 Listen to the performance of each amplifier and select the one that sounds best to you.
Step 6 Check the physical size of the amplifier to make sure it will fit where you plan to put it.
Before Shopping
Step 1 Gather as much technical information about your car's current stereo and speakers as you can.
Step 2 Determine where you intend to place the amplifier in your car.
Step 3 Measure the area and write down the dimensions.
Tips & Warnings
If your car radio doesn't have a low-level output, your amplifier will need a high-level input.
This allows you to connect the speaker wires from the radio directly to the amplifier.
Select a location where the amplifier will get plenty of air so it won't overheat.
-- How to Choose a Car Stereo Amplifier
Nothing can wreak havoc on a road trip like car trouble, but a good mechanic can take much of the anguish out of an untimely breakdown. Here are some tips on tracking down a reliable auto mechanic when you’re away from home.
1 Prepare in advance so you won’t be caught off guard and desperate if trouble does arise. For example, if you know you’ll be visiting the L.A. area in a few weeks, do some online research now to obtain some decent possibilities in that region.
Step 2 Check with the concierge or other staff members at the lodging where you’re staying. There’s a good chance they have helped other guests with the same problem, or will just know of someone through their own automotive needs in the past.
Step 3 Ask for some references, even if you don’t plan to call them. The fact that they provide you with some will be a pretty good sign to begin with.
Step 4 When calling around to garages, also ask about credentials, such as membership in ASE or good standing with the Better Business Bureau. Another good question to ask is whether they back up their repair work with warranties. Similarly, while visiting a garage, look for certification reflecting the training and knowledge of the shop’s mechanics.
Step 5 Consider the attitude and professionalism of the staff on hand. Are they helpful and courteous, or surly and off-putting? Trust your instincts if you get a bad feel based on the staff.
Step 6 Make sure the place you’re taking your car will provide a free estimate before beginning substantial work. This is standard procedure, and any repair shop refusing to cooperate should raise serious red flags.
Step 7 Try to find out if they have extensive experience working on your particular brand of car. Failing that, see if they specialize in foreign or domestic vehicles and pick the right match.
Step 8 Determine how you’ll get to and from the repair shop ahead of time, so you won’t have your choices too restricted by your location. Having a membership with an emergency road service company can be invaluable in these situations, since they can tow you free of charge to the best possible shop.
Tips & Warnings
Making sure your car is in decent working order before a long trip can truly help you avoid more serious problems during your travels.
-- How to Choose a Reliable Mechanic on the Road
The original speakers in most cars aren't very good. If you've already replaced the original radio in your car and you want to improve the sound even more, replace the factory speakers.
When You Get to the Store
1 Select several speakers that fit your car and budget.
Step 2 Ask the salesperson to plug the speakers you've chosen into a radio that's similar to the one in your car.
Step 3 Play your own music when testing the speakers.
Step 4 Choose the speakers that sound best to you.
Step 5 Choose coaxial speakers for the front doors. (A coaxial speaker is actually an assembly of two speakers. One plays the mid-range/mid-bass frequencies, and one plays the highs.)
Step 6 Check the speaker package before you leave the store. Make sure you're getting everything you bought: speakers, screws, grille, speaker wire, owner's manual, installation instructions and warranty.
Before You Go Shopping
1 Remove the existing speakers.
Step 2 Measure the speaker openings. Front speakers usually measure 4 inches, 5 inches or 6 inches. Speakers in the rear deck are usually 6 by 9 inches, 6 1/2 inches or 5 1/4 inches.
Step 3 Choose a favorite CD or tape to bring with you.
Tips & Warnings
If you can't measure the speaker openings, bring the original speakers with you when you shop.
Use a door panel popper to remove the panel and get to the speakers.
Make sure to label and secure the original speaker wires.
-- How to Choose Speakers for Your Car Stereo
Protecting your auto investment is very important. Costly repairs can add up over time. You should purchase an extended auto warranty.
1 Searching for the right extended auto warranties can be very tough. You need to find the right one and make sure you read the fine print as far as what that auto warranties cover. Lets take a look at different places your can find extended auto warranties.
Step 2 Talking with the dealer of your car is a great start. They will always provide and extended warranty on the car. Keep in mind the dealer gets a cut of the deal when he sell you the warranty. Always more than likely it will be more expensive at a dealer.
Step 3 Search the internet. I have found many great deals on extended auto warranties here. The competition on the internet offers you a great advantage over buying at a dealer. But sometimes you will find the dealer may be cheaper.
Step 4 Watch Tv, I see ads for extended auto warranties all the time now on the television during commercials. You need to check every place possible and find the best deal. Not all warranties will be the same. Make sure you read the fine print.
-- How to Find Extended Auto Warranties
Mostly it's a matter of luck, but it never hurts to try.
Step 1 Build up loyalty by renting at the same location as much as possible. Agents who know you are more likely to do you a favor than those who don't.
Step 2 Express an interest in the car you want. Knowing you're interested might be enough to prompt an agent to rent you a vehicle in the next class if there's an overly heavy demand for economy cars.
Step 3 Pick up your rental as soon as the office opens in the morning. Most of the nighttime returns won't be ready yet, which is likely to lead to a shortage of economy cars.
Step 4 Join frequent-renters programs at companies that have them.
Step 5 Exchange airline frequent-flyer miles for car rentals or upgrades, if you have miles ready to expire. (Free flights are usually a more cost-effective use of miles, however.)
Knowing how to jump-start a car with a dead battery can keep an inconvenience from becoming a crisis. If you are unsure about how to use jumper cables, this article and video will help you figure that out as well. After you've jump-started a car once you'll find that it isn't very hard to do.
1 Read your owner's manual, as it will describe any peculiarities involved in jump-starting your vehicle.
Step 2 Pull a car with a charged battery next to the car with the dead battery, situating the two batteries as close together as you can without allowing the two cars to touch.
Step 3 Turn off both engines, pull out the keys, put both cars in park, engage the emergency brakes and open the hoods.
Step 4 Attach a red-handled/positive jumper cable clamp to the positive terminal (the one with the plus sign) of the charged battery.
Step 5 Connect the other red-handled clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
Step 6 Attach the neighboring black/negative cable to the car with the dead battery. Clamp it somewhere where the current can ground out, such as a bolt or bracket on the engine. You can also attach it to any metal, unpainted part of the vehicle's frame.
Step 7 Ground the other black/negative cable on the charging car, as described in the previous step. Be careful, as a small spark may be produced.
Step 8 Attempt to start the car that has the dead battery.
Step 9 Re-adjust the red/positive clamp on the dead car if there is no response; try re-clamping it to the terminal or turning it for a better connection. Keep trying to start the dead car.
Step 10Once the dead car is running, remove the clamps one at a time in reverse order.
Step 11 Allow the jump-started car to run for half an hour in order to charge the battery. It will charge whether driving or idling.
-- How to Jump-Start a Car
Choosing a car is an important decision that merits careful planning. You are likely to live with this vehicle for quite some time. These pointers will help you choose effectively.
Step 1 Decide how you intend to use the car: for daily commuting, recreation, weekends and evenings out, carrying things, towing a trailer, carrying more than one passenger or driving in the city, suburbs or country. Consider factors that are important to you, such as fuel efficiency, reliability and safety features.
Step 2 Check into the resale value and repair history of past models in this car line, such as by consulting Consumer Reports magazine or its website (see Resources).
Step 3 Come up with a realistic budget, based on what you can afford (consider the monthly payment and cost of upkeep). If you're considering a trade-in, check the Kelley Blue Book value of your current vehicle. The Blue Book is a catalog of new and used car values, available at libraries, banks and online (see Resources). Factor your car's trade-in value into your total budget.
Step 4 Locate a town or an area near your home with several car dealerships; check Sunday newspaper advertisements and the yellow pages. Choose one or more dealerships to visit and set out early, preferably on a weekday. Remember to bring your driver's license so you can test drive.
Step 5 Find a car that interests you and check the stickers on the window. The first (and sometimes only) one is the factory sticker, which lists the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price), and the second is the dealer's sticker.
Step 6 You'll see that the factory sticker lists the car's features and its fuel-efficiency rating (or the number of miles per gallon expected for city and highway driving). The MSRP on this sticker includes the sum of the vehicle's base price, any additional options and the destination fee. The MSRP has a built-in profit for the dealer, often around 10 percent.
Step 7 Understand that the second sticker, if there is one, reflects a higher price. This price is set by the retailer for options and services it has supplied apart from the factory. Examples include an undercoating (to protect the car's underside exterior), dealer prep (washing, waxing and interior cleaning), interior and exterior treatment (sealant for the interior, no-wax finish for the exterior) and extra items (specialty wheels, for example). The second sticker price may also include additional dealer profits.
Step 8 Tell the sales representative that you'd like to have a look inside the car, or just hop in if it's unlocked. Adjust the seat and mirrors, and check leg room in each part of the car.
Step 9 Ask to take a test drive. Start out on city streets and then head out to the highway. Pay attention to steering ease, turning radius, braking response and acceleration. Adjust the mirrors and radio while you're driving to test convenience.
Step 10 Return to the dealership and thank the dealer. If you like the car, ask for a business card and say you will return later.
Step 11 Head to the next dealership and investigate other car models as described above. Ask dealers which car most closely resembles the one you previously test-drove, providing the make and model and explaining which features you liked. Test a number of models until you decide on a car, and compare these prices with those at other dealerships.
Step 12 Inquire about availability and delivery time, especially if you're interested in a popular model or want special features.
Step 13 Factor the dealership and its sales staff into your choice. A dealership you can trust, especially one with a competent service center on site, is worth more than money in your long future with the vehicle. You can, of course, have your car serviced at any dealer authorized by your new car's warranty.
Step 14 Start negotiations on polite and friendly terms. Comment on what you like about the car and ask questions. The intent is to make the seller comfortable.
Step 15 Remember that the dealer's second sticker lists options, not requirements, regardless of whether those services have already been provided. Ask for the factory wheels back, for example, or order a car that has no undercoating.
Step 16 Make your first offer. It should be lower than what you're willing to pay, but not an insulting figure. Use the MSRP as a reference, remembering that dealer profit (often around 10 percent) is built into this figure.
Step 17 Allow the seller to make a counteroffer. If the price is too high, say you're not able to afford that and ask him to talk to his manager.
Step 18 If the salesperson balks at your first offer, make a slightly higher one. Continue negotiating until you can agree on a price within your budget. If you can't agree on a price, seek out another dealer. You may be able to go back and get the first dealer to underbid the second dealer.
-- How to Negotiate a Price and Buy a New Car.
When selling a car, private transactions almost always generate more money than selling to a dealer. Make the process smoother by putting yourself in the buyer's shoes (see How to Buy a Used Car) and sell your car quickly, and possibly for more money.
1 Clear out your car, then wash, vacuum and wax it. Fix minor problems, or prepare to come down substantially in your asking price. A clean car will bring more money than the exact same car that is dirty.
Step 2 Have a mechanic look at your car before you sell to help appraise its value and identify problems. This will keep some buyers from telling you to lower the price by claiming the car needs significant work.
Step 3 Research the vehicle's value in the Kelley Blue Book (kbb.com), and compare with other sellers' asking prices for the same vintage model. This will give you the basis for a realistic price (add a little more so you can comfortably bargain).
Step 4 Post an ad in the newspaper, online, in the window of your car, on community bulletin boards--wherever you can get the word out. Create a Web site to display additional photos and descriptions of the vehicle. (See How to Buy or Sell a Car Online.) Be sure to highlight selling points such as low mileage, great condition, option packages, aftermarket additions (new hardtop or car alarm), number of owners (if it's very low), nonsmoking owner(s), and complete maintenance records.
Step 5 Run a car history report on your vehicle through a service such as Carfax.com, then print it to show prospective buyers.
Step 6 Make sure you have in your possession: the title, no outstanding tickets, a bill of sale or vehicle transfer form (available from the DMV), up-to-date emissions certification, registration and a release of liability form. Your local DMV will be able to identify the correct paperwork needed for your state or city.
Step 7 Confirm that anyone wanting to test-drive your car has a current driver's license. Be prepared for potential buyers to ask if their mechanic can check out the car. If you've had a mechanic look at your car recently, you can show the receipt or work order. It is recommended to "hang on to" the prospective buyers keys while they test drive your car.
Step 8 After you've agreed on a price, ask for cash or a certified check. Do not accept personal checks or payment in installments.
Step 9 Fill out the bill of sale, which buyer and seller both sign, and make copies for you both. Sign over the title and fill out a release of liability form (available at the DMV). Cancel your insurance for the car, so if anything happens to it you won't be responsible. Unless you have arranged otherwise, it's a good idea to add "Car is sold in 'as is' condition without any guarantee or warranty" to the bill of sale.
Step 10 Make sure you have removed all personal possessions from the vehicle including carseats, window shades, trunk storage accessories, cd holders, etc. Most importantly, remove the licence plates before they drive away. This will eliminate any potential problems that may occur on your end. If stopped by the police, the buyer will be able to use the bill of sale as a documentation for proof of ownership.
Tips & Warnings
To sell a car you're still making payments on, have the buyer either pay the bank directly, or pay you so you can pay off the loan.
If the car has a lien, the original title will be mailed from the bank to whoever paid them for the car.
Buyers of cars with liens can get temporary operating permits from the DMV, using the bill of sale.
Avoid using the expression "or best offer." You'll get the worst offers.
-- How to Sell a Car Online.
Regardless of what shape your vehicle's in, you can expect a good selling experience if you're straightforward and honest with prospective buyers.
1 Check the car's Kelley Blue Book value. The Blue Book is a catalog of car values, available at libraries and banks, and online at www.kbb.com.
Step 2 Look in the classified section of your local paper or a local auto-trader publication (usually distributed free at grocery stores and similar outlets) to compare the market value of similar cars.
Step 3 Decide how far above or below that value you can fairly go. Consider factors such as the car's condition, mileage, aftermarket add-ons, exotic coloring and any repair work you've had done.
Step 4 Wash and wax the car, empty the trunk, and fix any small problems with the interior'broken knobs, sticking windows, torn upholstery. Clean the interior thoroughly (see related eHows 'Wash a Car' and 'Wax a Car').
Step 5 Gather all the service and repair records together. Make photocopies of the records to give to a prospective buyer. Take measures to see that the car's paperwork is in order, such as paying off any outstanding parking tickets and making sure the registration is current.
Step 6 Contact your state's department of motor vehicles or authorized automobile club to find out if you're responsible for a smog certificate; this varies from state to state.
Step 7 Advertise your car. Put up signs at your repair shop, local cafe or grocery store if any of them have a bulletin board. Place ads in local newspapers and other classified ad resources, and put a 'For Sale' sign in the window of your car.
Step 8 Seek out online classifieds and bulletin boards. Often bulletin boards have discussions for a particular make and model.
Step 9 When a buyer shows interest, explain your reasons for selling the car. State the repairs you've had done and the gas mileage. Note any new parts, in particular.
Step 10 Appear to be mulling over the buyer's first offer, even if it's higher than you had hoped.
Step 11 Avoid making a counteroffer to an insultingly low offer. Politely decline and say you cannot accept anything so low. Counteroffer when the buyer gets closer to what you might accept. Continue until you agree on a fair price.
Step 12 Accept cash, a cashier's check or a money order in payment for the car. Don't take a personal check unless you know the person very well.
Step 13 Sign your car's title certificate to transfer ownership to the buyer. Federal law requires the seller to provide the buyer with two documents: the title certificate of the vehicle and an odometer statement showing the car's mileage. Certain states may require a smog certificate and other forms (call your department of motor vehicles to determine exactly what you'll need). Other documents, such as the car's warranty (if transferable) and service records, are not required but may be turned over to the buyer.
Step 14 Note that in many states the seller is required to contact the department of motor vehicles to inform it of the transfer of ownership; it's the buyer's responsibility to change the registration.
Step 15 Notify your insurance company once the car sells, and after you have transferred the title to the new owner. Tell the company to remove it from your policy.
Tips & Warnings:
Allow the buyer to inspect your car through an independent mechanic. Be up-front about both major and minor defects' rust, a bad engine, failing brakes'and subtract the cost of repairs from your asking price.
Agree to meet the prospective buyer at a garage or accept a deposit of a few hundred dollars while the car is being inspected.Write the buyer a receipt for the transaction, indicating that you are selling the vehicle 'as is,' to avoid future problems.
Failing to inform the state motor-vehicles department of the change of ownership can set you up for hardship if the car's new owner is irresponsible.
Check with your insurance company to see if the prospective buyer is insured during a test drive.
Always ride along during the test drive'thieves have been known to steal cars this way.
