Category Archives: Used Cars

How to Avoid the Bitter “New” Car Lemon

New Cars, Tips and HInts, Used Cars

Have you ever purchased a new (or new to you) car, drive it for a bit and begin to recognize that you may have just bought a !

Now, it isn’t your fault, right? I mean, how can anyone protect themselves from buying one of these defective vehicles? The answer is easy, you have to learn how to spot a lemon, which only sounds harder than it really is. In order to spot a lemon, there are a few things that anyone can do, all of which boil down to just doing some simple homework.

Thanks to cartips.net:

  • Check model history: One of the easiest ways to check to see if the car that you are going to be purchasing is a lemon, is to check into the model’s history. Informational sources such as the Kelly Blue Book, and Car and Driver model history is, you can get a fairly accurate description. If there is a large history of problems for a specific model, then chances are that you can expect to have similar problems with the car that you are researching. magazine, has statistical records as to the reliability of the model. Now, while it is true that you cannot base your decision simply off of what the the model history is, you can get a fairly accurate description. If there is a large history of problems for a specific model, then chances are that you can expect to have similar problems with the car that you are researching.
  • Get a CarFax history report: By simply getting a CarFax history report (which is going to cost you about $30.00) you can be pretty much guaranteed to have almost all of the vehicles history at your finger tips. At least among the major informational categories, such as if the car was stolen, ever been in a wreck and so on. In order to take advantage of such information, you are going to need the vehicle’s identification number (VIN) and a secure credit card (one that you do not mind using online). This is typically something that you are wanting to use if you are purchasing a used car, since most lemon laws do not cover used cars. If you take a look at the stickers on a used car (if you are purchasing from a dealer) then you are going to notice that chances are it has a little box marked that says “As Is.” If that box is marked, and you purchase the vehicle, then you are agreeing to the current condition of the vehicle.
  • Mechanic examination: If you are purchasing a used car, then you are entitled to have your potential purchase examined by a mechanic. If you don’t want to take a mechanic along, since it tends to cost money, then you just need to know what to look for. The easiest way is to keep an eye out for unexplainable wear and tear, mismatched paint job, and so on. While it may not be 100% accurate of test, it is something that can give you a fairly good idea of what to expect.

In short, what the buyer needs to keep in mind is that old phrase, “Let the buyer beware.” Or, you can always go to professionals who do these things for you!

The Bluesmobile

Just for Fun, Used Cars
https://www.flickr.com/photos/mobili/8732357819/in/photolist-eiDBKr-7qGSX4-22Epjt-aKaKa4-22EoYa-9pUVh5-6BZzG3-6BZA37-eDEBsR-9MDMw-9cWQY4-9cZWys-9cWR9V-9cZVXU-bEDVjd-4R1qkj-aSyCmk
Mobilus in Mobile, Flikr Creative Commons

Elwood: “It’s got a cop motor, a 440 cubic-inch plant, it’s got cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks, and it’s the model made before catalytic converters so it’ll run good on regular gas. Is it the new Bluesmobile or what?”

Jake: “Fix the cigarette lighter.”

 

The 1974 Dodge Monaco used in The Blues Brothers might be the most famous movie car of all time. More famous than the DeLorean from Back To The Future, more famous than Herbie the VW Bug,  definitely more famous than Eddie Murphy’s beat-to-hell Chevy Nova from Beverly Hills Cop, perhaps more famous even than The General Lee from the Dukes of Hazard franchise.

It makes it’s debut in the opening scene of the movie when Dan Akroyd’s character Elwood Blues arrives at Joliet Correctional Center to pick up his brother Jake (John Belushi) on his release from prison. Jake of course expresses shock and disbelief that his own brother would pick him up from prison in a police car! According to Elwood, he picked it up at a Mount Prospect, Illinois police auction where “they were practically giving them away”. The duo accepts a “mission from God” to get their old band back together and raise enough money to pay the back taxes on the orphanage where they were raised. Their car seems to have magic powers and helps them all the way to the bitter end of the movie when it disintegrates into a hundred pieces. It may indeed be a magical car, but the cigarette lighter doesn’t work!!

The film utilized 13 separate ’74 Dodge Monacos, some of them tricked out for stunts, some of them stripped down for speed, and of course one set up to completely fall apart. All of them were purchased as surplus from the California Highway Patrol, and at one point during the final chase scene the speedometer indicates 120 mph and according to director John Landis, that speed was accurate!

NIght Of Destruction!

Just for Fun, Used Cars
https://www.flickr.com/photos/allie_k/4930754501/in/photolist-8vHpwD-8vHoXe-8vLq8S-8vHpnF-8vLqg9-8vLs5U-8vLrAq-8vLqod-8vHoHR-8vHp5v-8vLrTQ-8vLrrQ-8vLr1s-8vLrJu-8vHogr-8wegKn-nyWizA-4PuS5F-nKGJg-nKJta-3KCaki-nyFobs-nyVCqe-nyVC4T-nKyZM-nKArq-nKKAo-nKK8L-nKGbN-nKHoK-nKFNi-nKEje-nKzsL-nKDu1-nKzSi-nKJKY-nKyxk-nKEDb-nKH5D-nKF2G-nKxfu-nKBTe-Py4ju-nKCGB-nKCgq-nKBvN-nKFrm-nKBc6-nKHQg-5R8wwf
AllieKF, Flikr Creative Commons

Holy Moly! This might be worth a quick road trip to California the weekend of June 6th! If y’all aren’t familiar with a Night Of Destruction type event, it’s kind of like a demolition derby amusement park meets Redneck Olympics. I don’t quite know how to describe the automotive mayhem that goes on at these events, so let me add some context and we go from there OK?

So, can we agree that there is a portion of the US population that ONLY watches NASCAR, the Indy 500, NHRA events, and Motocross for the crashes? Can we agree on that? Maybe we ourselves might be in that category from time to time? Maybe? Well the Night Of Destruction was invented by, for, and about those folks. It’s all about the crashes people, all about the crashes. I mean, for example,  these folks put on events where you can race whatever you brung….on  figure 8 track….hauling a trailer!! They even have rollover contests! They’ll put on demolition derbies for RV’s, school buses, whatever you can think of that has four wheels and a motor. Motocross not exciting enough for you? How about Demo-cross? Demo-cross with a trailer?

Now of course in this nanny-state age of helicopter parents and families who have lawyers on retainer, there have to be some safety precautions. You’re not allowed to run the track in the opposite direction as the rest of the traffic for one thing. For another they do wet the track down to limit speed…and therefore impact trauma. The rules state that you can (and should) reinforce the driver’s door, but please don’t use concrete. No glass is allowed in the car, and no drugs or alcohol are allowed in the pits. Safety belts are required (thank God), and no passengers are allowed in race vehicles. So, if you have a crazy streak, want to earn cash & prizes in the $3-500 range as well as come home with a limp and a grin, then Destruction racing might be for you! See y’all at the Perris Motor Speedway in Perris, CA June 6th!

 

Need a new car, check out used first!

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Let’s face it; when living in Texas, it is virtually mandatory that you own a car. Here in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, that is especially true. With a limited public transportation system and long distances to cover to get to wherever you need to go, you are going to have a difficult time with travel without a reliable car.

Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to purchase, own and upkeep a brand new, fresh off the lot vehicle. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t own a reliable used vehicle. In fact, when you decide to buy a used vehicle, you are already taking a step in the right direction. “Why is that?,” you ask. Or, maybe you are thinking, “…but I don’t want to inherit someone else’s problems”. The fact of the matter is that a major advantage of buying a second-hand car is its lower price. The moment a vehicle leaves the lot as a “new” car and is driven on the streets, its value drops immediately. That’s just the way it is, although some automobiles are driven for only a few years, their prices are considerably less than the exact same car sitting on a dealer’s lot.

This is good news for the savvy used car buyer. Looking for a car that has just come off lease is an excellent way for you to get more car for less money. In fact, you are going to have more choices, with more of the options that would probably be way out of your budget if you bought the car new. Having more choices is great because it introduces more makes and models which means you won’t have to settle for an inferior vehicle or one you just can’t learn to love.

OK, so you’ve saved cash off the top just because you went the used car route. Where else are you going to save a few bucks? Good question.

In Texas, (as in every other state) you must carry insurance on your vehicle. You are responsible, at bare minimum, to carry liability insurance. On a new car, fresh off of the lot, your insurance coverage is automatically going to be on the higher end of the payment spectrum. Buying a used car will help keep some of the insurance costs down. This is a good thing, especially with gas prices continuing to climb.

The bottom line is that when looking for a new car, it doesn’t have to really be new…just new to you. Doing some serious research and conferring with your dealer about your budget and what you’d like to have in your driveway will not only save you money and time, but you’ll have a car you can be proud of. More importantly, you’ll have a car you can rely on.

If you have any questions about buying a used vehicle: What you should look for, what your should expect etc., give me a shout. I’d be happy to help!

 

Fort Worth and Dallas New Car: Know your ABC’s

Insurance, New Cars, Safe Driving, Tips and HInts, Used Cars, , , , , , , , , , ,

I was running out for lunch the other day and I noticed something during my trip that I thought I needed to write about.

Let me first start by saying that in the late 80’s automakers began installing airbags in cars for safety reasons, and there’s no doubt that over the past 30 years airbags have saved thousands of lives.

However, it is important to note that airbags are designed to protect average-sized adults…not young children.  I know we’ve all heard it, but airbags can pose a serious risk to children who ride in the front seat.

In fact, according to research conducted by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, “children exposed to airbags during a crash are twice as likely to suffer a serious injury”.  The American Academy of Pediatrics states, “children under the age of 13 are safest seating in the back seat of a car”.

The following are some safety guidelines for children riding in a car.

  • Infants seated in a rear-facing safety seat should never be placed in the front seat of a car that has an airbag – When the airbag engages, the force of the airbag is directed right at the infant’s head as it comes out of the dashboard.
  • Children seated in a forward-facing child should not be placed in the front seat of a car that has an airbag. – Again when the airbag engages, the child’s head is in the path of the airbag as it emerges from the dashboard.
  • Remember for children 13 and under: The safest place to be in a car is the back seat.
  • For children ages 13 and up riding in the front seat remember:
    • All children should wear a lap/shoulder belt.
    • Move the front seat as far back as possible from the dashboard.
    • Make the sure the child doesn’t lean forward.
    • Have the child sit upright against the seat at all times.

Note: Engineers are constantly improving airbags to improve safety.  Known as 2nd-generation or de-powered airbags, these airbags are still NOT designed for children.  Children are best protected in the rear seat.

If you have any questions about child safety in your vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact me at Freeman Grapevine. You can even swing by, and we’ll show you thee proper way to install your child safety restraint systems.

 

Do your homework to avoid buying a lemon

Tips and HInts, Used Cars, , , , , , , ,

I know everyone’s fear of buying a use car is the potential of inheriting other peoples’ problems…buying the dreaded “LEMON”. It may look gorgeous on the outside, but it’s what’s under the hood that determines whether or not the car will be a money pit. Here are a few tips on what to look for when taking that potential used car for a test driving

1) Pull out the oil dipstick while the engine is running – DO NOT rev the engine! Watch the dipstick’s hole as the engine idles; if you hear or see any air, gas or oil escaping the dipstick holder it means the rings are worn. A slight escape of air from the dipstick is the first stage of ring failure which is not a serious problem but will get worse until gas and oil start escaping the dipstick holder. The result is less power and leaking oil in the sump. Look for white emulsification on the dipstick which would indicate a cracked cylinder head, which is a serious problem.

2) Look at the exhaust pipe while the car is running. White smoke from the exhaust indicates there’s engine oil remaining on the bore that the rings haven’t scraped off, which means oil could be leaking. Black smoke means the fuel injectors are dirty on a diesel engine.

3) Remove the radiator cap and check for oil. Oil in the water also means a cracked cylinder head.

4) Have a pre-purchase inspection performed! A compression test should also be done for failing rings on any used vehicle. This test requires a trained mechanic because of the equipment used and the test is complicated. The readings must be done ‘dry’ and ‘wet’, and it even depends on if you are above or below sea level.

The bottom line is, “Do your Homework!”

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to swing by and take a look at our great selection of pre-owned.

Fort Worth, this is how you buy a used car

Used Cars, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
You won’t see this guy at Freeman Grapevine

So, you’ve gotten as many miles out of the old girl as possible. She’s starting to cost too much to maintain, but buying a new car is not an option. What do you do? We’ll you can drive that old beater until you finally decide to leave it, abandoned and forgotten on the side of the road as you hoof it to the nearest sign of life, or you could have thought about picking up a used car for less than new…and you still would have had something to trade in.

Here’s a step by step check list:

Step 1: Starting out.

If you’ve decided to buy a used car, you’ve already made a smart decision. You can get a car that’s almost as good as a brand-new one, without suffering the depreciation that wallops new car buyers as soon as they drive the car off the lot. Used cars — even those that are only one year old — are 20 to 30 percent cheaper than new cars.

Step 2: Locating the right used car.
At the beginning of the car-buying process, many people already have in mind the car they want. It’s possible that you need to expand your horizons when considering what to buy. You might want to think of other vehicles in the same class. These cars were built for the same market, but they often have different features at lower prices.

Step 3: Used car bargains.
The cost of a used car is based on its condition, mileage, reliability, performance and popularity. Of course, you want a car that is reliable and performs well.

Step 4: Research your prospective used car.
One vital step to getting a great used car deal: you have to run a vehicle history report on any used car you are considering buying. Several companies sell these reports, which are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), but Carfax seems to be the most comprehensive. You will find out the vital information about the used car including whether or not it has a salvage title (it has been declared a total loss by the insurance company) or evidence to reveal if the odometer has been rolled back. This is also the time to decide if you want a Certified Used Car.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsO-oqASUuI

 

 

 

 

Step 5: How much can you afford?
The smart shopper will consider how to finance the car at the beginning of the shopping process. This will avoid unpleasant surprises later in the game and help you make an unemotional decision that fits your budget.

Step 6: Set up financing for your used car.
You have three ways to pay for your used car: Financing through a bank, on-line lender or credit union, financing through the dealer, or cash.

Step 7: Used car markets.
There are advantages to buying a used car from a new car dealership. Many used cars, on new car lots, are trade-ins. Dealerships usually get these cars at rock-bottom prices. If you make a low offer — but one that gives them some profit — you just might get a great deal. Furthermore, many dealerships offer certified used cars that have been thoroughly inspected and are backed by attractive warranties.

Step 8: Test driving a used car.
Used car shopping will involve inspecting the vehicle to determine its condition. This process is simplified if you buy a certified used car that has passed a thorough inspection and is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. But while buying a certified used car removes a lot of the guesswork about the vehicle’s mechanical condition, you pay for this service. Try to arrange your test drive so that you start the engine when it is completely cold. Some cars are harder to start when they are dead cold and, when doing so, will reveal chronic problems. Turn off the radio before you begin driving — you want to hear the engine and concentrate on the driving experience.

Step 9: Negotiating for a used car.
Whether you are buying a used car from a dealer or a private party, let them know you have the cash in hand (or financing arranged) to make a deal on the spot. Preface your offer with a statement like, “I’m ready to make a deal now. I can give you cash (or a cashier’s check) now. But we need to talk about the price.”

At this point, you need to have a persuasive argument about why the price is too high. So let’s talk about pricing. The foundation of successful negotiation is information. This is particularly true when buying a used car. And yet, the condition of used cars means prices will vary widely.

Step 10: Closing the deal.
Once the contract is ready, review it thoroughly. In most states, it will contain the cost of the vehicle, a documentation fee, a smog fee, a small charge for a smog certificate, sales tax and license fees (also known as DMV fees). Make sure you understand the charges and question the appearance of any significant, sudden additions to the contract.

Finally, you should inspect the car before you take possession of it. If any repair work is required, and has been promised by the dealer, get it in writing in a “Due Bill.” Make sure the temporary registration has been put in the proper place and — you’re finally on your way.

There you have it…trade secrets revealed. If you need a used car, show you appreciation for the tips above by swinging by and taking a few for a test drive.

How do you know what used Car to buy

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dallas fort worth used car, dallas Buick Dealer, Dallas GMC Dealer, dallas GMC Truck, dallas new car, dallas Used Car, dallas Used Truck, dfw driving, GMC Dealer, GMC Truck, new carHere at Freeman Grapevine our used car selection is growing larger by the day. Why is that? Well, it’s a direct result of today’s modern lease programs and the rate at which people are turning over their cars for the latest models or style. The good news for you is that the chances of you falling into a really great used car are pretty good…that’s if you know what to look for. I found a good video that demonstrates 5 easy ways to judge the condition of the used car you are looking to buy.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szPE_YCjc6g

Keep in mind that if you are purchasing the car from Freeman Grapevine we will have already given it a multi-point inspection and give you a CarFax report on the history of the vehicle.

Remember, there are some very good things about buying a used vehicle, namely you can get more car for your money. Besides, does it really matter if it’s used? It’s new to you!

Does anyone have any suggestions on buying a used car?

Shopping For A Used Car In Dallas Fort Worth

Used Cars, , ,

With the holidays just around the corner, there are thousands of anxious teenagers crossing their fingers and hoping that they might get the ultimate present this year…a car of their very own!

Now we know, that most cars parents buy for their children, and even those kids who work hard all summer and are ready to buy their first car, probably aren’t going to purchasing a new Buick, or GMC. However, buying used is certainly going to make that dream car more in their reach.

What’s the first step in buying a used car in Dallas Fort Worth? Make a check list and follow it. There are a few things that you are going to want to discuss with your kids, dealer and financier.

1. Think about purchasing a certified pre-owned vehicle. A certified pre-owned vehicle generally can be purchased with the manufacturer’s extended warranty and have had a complete inspection.
2. Make sure the vehicle suits everyone’s needs. If this vehicle will be a family car, bring everyone along to take a test drive to make sure everyone is comfortable in the car. If you have small children, bring your child safety seats to make sure they fit and can be easily installed.
3. Purchase a vehicle history report and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. By following both of these suggestions, you can may avoid unexpected issues later on.
4. Look into promotional programs. Many manufacturers offer incentives when you purchase their used vehicles. Ask your local New Jersey used auto dealer for more details.
5. Look into financing before hand. Before purchasing your vehicle, look into interest rates to be sure you are getting the best rate you can find. Check with your dealer, bank or credit union.
6. Negotiate on the price of the vehicle. When purchasing a vehicle, you should negotiate based on the total price of the vehicle rather than on what you want your monthly payments to be. Your monthly payments can always be lowered, by extending the life of the loan.

Now the best part is that when you’re ready to buy a used car, I just happen to know a great place that has an amazing selection and the best customer service in DFW. Swing by Freeman Grapevine anytime and ask for David Parrish, I guarantee that he’ll take great care of you and get your in a reliable vehicle you can be proud of.

Dallas Buick and GMC Owners: Freeman Grapevine Has The Cure For Your Foggy Headlights

GMC, Maintenance and Service, Used Cars, , , , , , , , , , ,

 

We see a lot of foggy headlights come through the Freeman Grapevine Service Department to be restored. Hazy, or foggy headlights are fairly common place, especially in constantly changing and extreme weather conditions of the DFW Metroplex. Keep in mind, that cleaning foggy headlights might not be a problem that you have to deal with right now with your new Buick or GMC, but it might pop up somewhere down the road. Most modern new car headlights are made out of plastic, and as the years pass, light causes them to oxidize and it forms a yellowish tint over the lenses. This wasn’t really a problem back before the 1980s when most headlight covers were made of glass. That’s right all you youngsters, at one time headlights were glass and almost as easy to change as light bulb…but I digress.

Modern car manufacturers put a coating on the headlights to help keep the oxidizing at bay, but given enough time, those headlights are still going to fog up. This can have a severe impact on your night time driving visibility. Light rays can be cut and diffused by an oxidized headlight lens to the point of being dangerous.

The good news is, if you notice your headlight lenses are starting to turn yellow, you don’t have to throw them out and get new ones (which a lot of people do, unfortunately). It’s extremely expensive to buy replacement lenses. You can save yourself some money and make your headlights good as new by fixing it yourself or bringing your car into Freeman Grapvine, and we can clean them to look like the day your bought your Buick or GMC.

I found this do it yourself from Auto Amateur Bob that explains the process perfectly:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPb0DqTlG4o

Again, If you’d rather a professional take a look at your hazy, foggy or oxidized headlight lenses, just swing by Freeman Grapevine. We’ll be able to clean them in a flash and it’s just one less thing you’ll have to worry about.