Penske May Bid on Saturn

Automotive entrepreneur Roger Penske, who helped launch the Smart car in the U.S., has emerged as a possible bidder for GM's Saturn brand.

By Philip Nussel of AutoWeek

The Saturn Sky Red Line is one of the brand's crown jewels.

Race team owner and automotive entrepreneur Roger Penske is a possible bidder for General Motors' Saturn brand, The Wall Street Journal reported this evening on its Web site, citing people familiar with the situation.

A Penske spokesman declined to comment, the Journal said.

Penske is CEO of suburban Detroit-based Penske Automotive Group, which ranks No. 2 behind AutoNation Inc.on the Automotive News list of the top 125 U.S. auto retailer groups with 2008 new vehicle sales of 171,872. The company, with 149 dealerships representing 40 brands, is due to report its first quarter earnings on Tuesday.

Penske last year helped launch Mercedes-Benz' smart brand of micro cars as its national distributor in the U.S.

He has a variety of other holdings throughout the U.S. auto industry, including truck leasing, logistics and auto racing. In 1988, he acquired the money-losing Detroit Diesel Corp. from General Motors and turned around the iconic heavy-duty engine maker in less than four years. He sold the company to DaimlerChrysler AG in 2000.

GM said earlier today it has a number of potential buyers for its Saturn brand and retail network and will look to secure an agreement with a specific buyer later this year.

GM retained S.J. Girsky & Co as an adviser to help it review expressions of interest from the potential buyers.

GM, which has taken $15.4 billion of U.S. government loans to operate since the start of the year, has scrambled to unload underperforming brands, including Saturn and Hummer, as part of a sweeping restructuring mandated by the U.S. government.

GM said it is proceeding with efforts to sell Saturn after receiving interest from several parties.

The announcement comes as GM faces a June 1 deadline to convince the U.S. autos task force overseeing its restructuring that it has a viable business plan. The automaker is racing to get concessionary deals from its bondholders and union and sell assets.

Last month, an investor group that includes private equity firm Black Oak Partners LLC and some Saturn dealers said it has approached GM about buying the assets of the Saturn brand and distribution network.

A GM spokesman described the potential bid as "very interesting."

GM has confirmed it had been in discussions with Black Oak and said there were other investment groups interested in taking over Saturn, a struggling brand GM launched 25 years ago in a failed bid to head off market gains by Japanese imports.

Saturn brand sales dropped 22 percent in 2008, worse than the 18 percent decline in the overall market.

Flash Drive: 2009 Dodge Journey SXT AWD

By Staff of MSN Autos

Dodge Journey SXT
A little late to the party, the Journey is Dodge's first entry into the busy crossover market. With a modern interpretation of the classic Dodge styling cues, such as the familiar cross-hair grille, the Journey is a good-looking vehicle. Inside, there are a number of unique stowage ideas, from the chilled glove box designed to hold water bottles or soda cans to the secret cubby under the front passenger seat. Seats are comfortable, and there is plenty of room in the rear seat and the cargo areas. Seating for seven is available, however our tester did not have the optional third row. The ride is quite smooth, but the soft suspension makes the Journey mushy when cornering or swerving suddenly. While our tester had the largest engine option — the 235-horse V6 — I found power lacking in most situations, especially when tackling hills. Unfortunately, the lack of power was not made up for with good fuel economy — the best I could achieve was an indicated 18 mpg with mostly highway driving. Not a bad vehicle, but in such a tight market, not bad just isn't good enough. –Perry Stern

The Dodge Journey is functional people mover. It can carry up to seven people, or you can stow the seats flat and create lots of room in the back. It is easy to move the seats around to get in and out quickly. If you are a fan of lots of storage space and cupholders, the Journey has you covered. There is even a beverage cooler in the glove box, which is a neat feature for road trips. Around town, I was able to generate only 19 mpg in mixed driving. Also, it would be nice if steering-wheel controls for the audio system were available on the base version of the car. The Journey can get the job done, but don't be surprised to see the price reach $30K if you check off some of the seating and entertainment options. –Joe Chulick

I've never liked the term "crossover" to describe cars. I suppose a crossover is a compromise between an SUV and a minivan (itself a compromise between a car and a van). Dodge invented the minivan, and the new Dodge Journey is more minivan than crossover. Unlike a minivan, the Journey doesn't have sliding doors. It does have plenty of storage bins throughout, though, even under the front passenger seat. The Journey looks better than most minivans, and is more fun to drive, too. It achieved more than 18 mpg in city driving for me. I like the Dodge Journey, and it seems my neighbors do, too, as I see more and more of them in driveways around my town. –Paul Hagger

Some Lenders Object to Chrysler Sale

A minority group of Chrysler LLC secured lenders says the U.S. Treasury is forcing a Fiat merger that favors junior creditors over senior creditors.
By David Barkholz of AutoWeek


2009 Chrysler 300

A minority group of Chrysler LLC secured lenders has objected in bankruptcy court to the quick sale of Chrysler to a new corporate entity led by Fiat S.p.A.

The group of about 40 banks and hedge funds holds about $3 billion of the $6.9 billion in secured loans that Chrysler has with the banks. Four major New York banks holding $4 billion of that debt agreed last week to settle for $2 billion in payment for the $6.9 billion owed.

Attorney Peter V. Pantaleo representing JP Morgan Chase Bank, said 90 percent of all secured lenders signed a letter in support of a Fiat hook up before the bankruptcy. But not all followed through to sign onto the settlement agreement. JP Morgan Chase is the lead bank among the New York banks settling for $2 billion.

But the dissident lenders, led by Oppenheimer Funds and Stairway Capital, contend the proposed sale of Chrysler assets favors junior creditors over senior creditors and seeks to improperly channel consideration to specific creditor groups.

The dissenting secured lenders said in their objection that the sale was being "orchestrated entirely by (the U.S.) Treasury and foisted upon the debtors without regard to corporate formalities."

Chrysler's new corporate entity, led by Fiat and its proposed 20 percent stake, would be considered the lead bidder for Chrysler's assets in a bankruptcy court auction.

The automaker asked U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Arthur Gonzalez to set a hearing as soon as May 21 to approve a $2 billion sale of most of its assets out of bankruptcy that would clear the way for a merger with Fiat, according to documents filed with the court.

The court has set a May 15 deadline for competing bids, according to Bloomberg News.

Chrysler also asked the court to approve a $35 million breakup fee for Fiat if the sale falls apart.

Chrysler filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Thursday to try to complete an alliance with Fiat and qualify for about $6 billion in additional federal loans.

President Obama scolded the dissident lenders in an address Friday Thursday for preventing an out-of-court settlement of Chrysler restructuring.

Fiat would start with a 20 percent stake in the new Chrysler, which would grow quickly to 35 percent.

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is expected to run the merged operations.

Ferarri 599 Prototype

Today we catch a fresh spy photo of upcoming Ferarri 599. Ferrari unveiled the 599XX concept at the last Geneva Auto Show in March. As you see, the car did not have the big spoilers and wings like the 599XX concept but we can see the modified exhaust pipes positioned similarly to the 599XX concept.

The Ferarri’s 599XX concept was created as a high-performance track car. It weighs less than the stock car and its aerodynamics have been improved to create plenty of downforce for better handling.

Improvements were also made to the engine by revamping combustion chambers, air flow systems and using lightweight components. In the end the 599XX attained a power figure of 700hp (515kW).

Getting The Best Deal When Buying a Used Ford Car

Buying a used travel car has never been easier, generally interjection to the accredited dealerships which have been right away equates to to sell used travel cars with as most faith for the customer as when they’re removing a code code brand code brand new one. This change towards seller accountability, generally when it comes to Ford cars, has done second palm options far some-more tasteful than they were in the past. Ford as a association have been mostly obliged for this, and have had their indication replicated by most alternative manufacturers who assimilate which their proceed helps to indurate their on all sides as a peculiarity manufacturer who protects their customer’s reserve even when they’re not shopping from them directly.

The Process

Because Ford has a good repute and is equates to to rely on repeat law they have been equates to to comment for this in their commercial operation model. That’s because accredited dealerships have been equates to to sell business code brand code brand new cars, and traffic in their old cars at a in accord with price. Then, they can sell alternative peoples second palm cars onto code brand code brand new customers. However, it’s not as elementary as that. Firstly they will check which the car meets all the standards which have been set onward by Ford and by themselves. If the car is not operative similar to clock-work they will possibly exclude to buy this car from a seller, or they will buy it and perform and the required correct work until the utterly highway worthy. This proceed allows used Ford buyers to know which they have been shopping quality, even if they have been not shopping it code code brand code brand new from the salon floor.

Finance Options

Certain Ford dealers have the capability to suggest financial options to their customers. This equates to which if a intensity customer does not have the income to be equates to to financial the squeeze of a second palm car which they will be equates to to get a loan which could meant which they will be equates to to get on the highway prior to they have the income in the bank. This doesn’t regularly work out, however it can do some-more mostly than not. That’s because selecting to go with an accredited Ford dealership can be a good option. If your salary have been some-more than sufficient to cover the price of using your car, and creation payments, because shouldn’t you be equates to to get on the highway as shortly as possible.

Infinite Choices

When it comes to shopping a used travel car your choices aren’t singular in the same approach as they competence be with alternative manufactures. Ford manufacturers high opening sports cars, family induce backs and MPVs. Whatever it is your seeking for in conditions of appearance, performance, engine displacement, or seating genius you can be certain which Ford will be equates to to give you what your seeking for. That’s because a Ford used car dealership is mostly the most appropriate place to go when you have been seeking for a used car. You’ll additionally be equates to to exam expostulate a far-reaching accumulation of motors, definition you do not have to rest until your entirely satisfied.

Car Rental Tips

Need wheels on your next trip? Renting a car can give you freedom and flexibility when you're traveling, and in some parts of the world it's the only feasible way to get around. But a rental car can sometimes add complications to your trip -- like trying to find the best deal or sorting out exactly which insurance options you need. Read on for our practical tips on saving money, understanding your rental agreement and avoiding problems with your car rental.

Choosing a Vehicle
Think carefully about what kind of vehicle you'll need. If you're traveling with children or with a lot of gear, you may want a large sedan or SUV. If you're simply looking to save money on rental rates and gas, you'll want to reserve the smallest available model.

But size isn't the only factor. Looking for something environmentally friendly? Check out our Green Travel Resources. Can't drive a stick shift? Be sure to reserve a car with automatic transmission. (In many countries, a manual transmission is the norm -- so read the fine print before booking. Learn more in Renting a Car Abroad.) Also, be sure that the company offers any extras you might need or want, such as a ski rack, car seat or GPS system.

Booking Your Car
How long will you be renting? If it's for less than a week, you'll probably do best with a major rental company, such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National or Thrifty. For rentals of a week or longer, you may get better rates from local companies, particularly auto dealers. Remember, however, to be wary of local companies if you plan to drive a lot; if you break down or get into an accident, they usually lack the support services of the majors.

Always shop around. Check the major booking engines and aggregator sites (such as Travelocity and Kayak) to get an idea of what rates are available, but you should also visit the car rental companies' Web sites as well -- they'll often offer exclusive discounts, and you'll avoid booking fees. Don't forget to check out our selection of discount car rental deals before making any reservations.

To lower your rate, ask about discounts for any major national organizations, frequent flier programs and credit card programs you may belong to. They'll frequently offer deals on car rentals. Those offered through AAA can be very good. If you're employed by a company that frequently rents cars, they may have a negotiated rate. Make sure to check.

Before you book online, do an Internet search for coupon or promotion codes to put into the booking engine of your car rental company's site. Just type in the name of the company followed by "coupon code" into the search field and you'll often find special promotion codes that could save you anywhere from 5 to 20 percent off the cost of your rental.

If you're not already, consider joining your car rental company's loyalty program when you book. These vary by company, but most of them are free and entitle you to certain privileges when picking up your vehicle; your information will be on file ahead of time, allowing you to simply jump into the car and go rather than standing in a long line or filling out paperwork. You could also be eligible for special discounts or free upgrades.

Understanding Your Rental
If you're booking online, read the terms and conditions carefully before confirming your reservation. If you're booking on the phone, ask the agent about restrictions. Be sure you understand the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for no-shows? How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup station? Is there a fee for additional drivers and must their names be listed in the contract? Is your 20-year-old daughter old enough to drive the car? (For liability reasons, this is important.)

If pertinent, ask about any restrictions on interstate travel. For your own protection in case of breakdown, be sure the company has offices in all the states on your itinerary.

For one-way rentals, ask about drop-off charges. They can be exorbitant.

Always get a confirmation number. For airport rentals, be sure to give the customer service representative your flight number and scheduled arrival time. This will usually protect your reservation if the flight is delayed.

The True Cost of Car Rentals
Buyer beware: The rate you see advertised in big print may become so inflated with state and local taxes, airport surcharges, additional driver fees, insurance, gasoline bills and drop-off charges that you end up paying more than double what you expected. Learn more about these extra charges in Car Rental Hidden Costs.

Also, the advertised rate may be valid only in off-season Florida or California, when many cars are idle there, but not where you want to rent. Finally, the rate may be only for a car size that you would find unsuitable.

In recent years, the major booking engines have become more transparent about rental car rates, and they now usually show you the total cost of your rental, including estimated taxes and fees, early on in the booking process. Travelocity offers total pricing, which guarantees that the company's estimated amount will be within one percent of the actual rate.

Like the airlines, the major auto rental companies have adopted "yield management." That means that their computers can quickly readjust prices according to changes in the supply of cars available, and so the rental rate you are quoted is valid only at that moment. Unless you reserve immediately, the rate is likely to change.

At Pickup Time
If your first drive will be from an airport to a hotel for the night, why not take a shuttle van to the hotel instead? Doing this may save you the price of a day's rental. Even if you must drive the same day your flight lands, you may not have to get the car at the airport. By picking it up downtown, you can often avoid hefty airport surcharges.

If you have personal auto insurance or charge the rental to a major credit card, you will probably be covered at least for collision damage -- so you shouldn't have to purchase the car rental company's collision or loss damage waiver (CDW or LDW) insurance. If in doubt, ask your insurance agent or credit card issuer.

Before you drive away from the pickup station, inspect the car carefully for body damage. Be sure the lights and turn signals are working properly, and check the mileage odometer. Report any defects at once.

Familiarize yourself with the workings of the car before you leave the lot. Check which side your gas tank is on, and learn how to use the headlights, windshield wipers and turn signal. It may seem obvious, but you'll also want to memorize the make, model and color of your car -- that way you won't lose it the first time you park in a busy lot! For more, see Getting to Know Your Rental Car.

Returning Your Car
Be wary of prepaid gasoline plans. Always fill the tank yourself before returning the vehicle so that you're only paying for the amount of gas you actually used. Try to avoid the gas stations right near the airport where you're dropping off your car -- the prices tend to be highest there. Instead, fill up a few miles away. Even better: Check GasBuddy.com before your trip to find out where the cheapest gas stations are in your area.

It may seem counterintuitive, but returning your car early may actually cost you money. You'll often pay an early return fee (usually about $15 a day), but even worse, your rate structure will most likely change and you'll be responsible for the difference. Of course, returning the car late could cost you too -- many car rental companies only give you a 30-minute grace period before beginning to rack up the late fees.

Before leaving the vehicle, check to be sure you haven't left any personal belongings. Don't forget to check the trunk! The most common lost articles include cell phones, sunglasses and umbrellas.

Be sure that the check-in attendant inspects the car's body in your presence and that you agree about any damage. Examine your rental agreement carefully for all charges and make sure they credit any deposit to your account while you wait.

Car | Mercedes E Class Car

Herecar is one of the simplest review of the new Mercedes E Class Coupe, this car is said to be the most high technology mid size car to ever be produced by Mercedes Benz.
Mercedes E Class Coupe will be the model to replace its CLK car, and compared to its mid size competitors this car has the upper hand on its safety technology features.
As for the design Mercedes E Class Coupe Car has change the eliptical headlight trend, including the body style, I could say Mercedes car is blending its new models into a more edgy design, making it look more powerful with its solid edgy impression. While inside this Car is inspired by the S Class model roomy, luxury which brings a high level of comfort that isn't comparable.
Mercedes E Class Coupe car is a Rear wheel drive car equipped with a Direct injection V-8 Engine. that produces 388 hp with a 391 lb ft of torque and is a seven-speed automatics transmission helps the new Mercedes E Class Coupe Car achieve its fuel economy to 10.9 liters per 100 km consumption.

Mercedes E Class Coupe Car Safety Features includes Adaptive headlights offer auto-dimming, Attention Assistant uses lane-departure warning technology that alerts with a beep sound and a espresso cup sign appears on the dash to wake the driver that might be falling asleep. Blind-spot alerts are also included on the features list of this car, as is Night View Assist. Along with those standard features such as airbags, stability control and tire-pressure monitors.
Mercedes E Class Coupe car is more likely made to market in the middle, which is a family car plus a sports car, it can be either of the two which makes the buyers life even more easier because you can get the best of both categories in one car.

Mercedes E Class Car Summary Specs
Drivetrain
Layout: Front Engine, RWD
Transmission: 7 Speed Automatic
Suspension: AGILITY CONTROL Sport Suspension with Individually Variable Shock Absorbers
Car Engine
Type: Mercedes-Benz V8
Horsepower: 388 bhp
Torque: 530 Nm (391 lb-ft.)
Performance
Fuel Consumption: 10.9 liters per 100 km
Mercedes E Class Car

Car | Honda Civic Type R Car

Onecar of peoples favorite Toy Car, introduced in 2007, the Honda Civic Type R FD2, it is a common 4 door Civic sedan that's been dressed up and tuned into a super Civic, it adopts the light weight modification technique that includes, exclusive suspension that is specially tuned with ABS/EBD system, Honda Civic Type R has an 18 inch mags with 17 inch front disc brakes.
One of the biggest factor of its modification is the aerodynamic parts like the exclusive hood and fenders making this car grip better on the road. Other modifications made for this car includes the sports shift short stroke, metal pedals, an exclusive Honda R spec seats, the type R red emblem, and the exclusive Honda Type R Steering wheel.

Honda Civic Type R is made with a specially tuned 2.0 liter K20A i-VTEC engine, its intake and exhaust also been tuned making this car produce a 225 horsepower with a 159 lb ft of torque, and equipped with a close ratio 6 speed transmission, this car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 6.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240 kmph.

Honda Civic Type R Specs
Engine
Power: 165 kw (222hp / 225 ps)
Torque: 215 Nm (159 Lb-Ft)
Displacement: 2.0 liters
Engine type: Inline 4, 16V
Drive: Front Wheel Drive
Performance
Top speed: 148.8 miles/h (240 km/h)
0-100 km/h: 6.3 seconds
Transmission: 6 speed Manual
Weight: 1270 kilograms (2794 lbs)
Year Model: 2007
Honda Civic Type R Car

Tips for Test Driving A Used Car before buying

For most of us, purchasing a new car isn’t an everyday experience. For this reason buying a new car is a thrilling event. Even if you are buying a used car, it is still new and exciting to you. However, there are a handful of things to check before making a purchase on a used car. Most important is taking a test drive.

After browsing over thousands of ads in the newspaper or peeking at a handful of cars on the lot, you likely have found at least one that you would be interested in. The next step is to ask for some more information and then take a test drive. The first test drive you should merely be checking the overall fit of the car. One helpful tip is to first turn on the radio to make sure it works, then turn it off for the remainder of the test drive. This common practice makes it easier to hear subtle noises from the car during the drive. Think about how you feel behind the wheel, the overall sound of the vehicle, and general performance. Also, what kinds of features are included on the interior? When you are done test driving make sure to check the VIN of the vehicle before you leave so that you can continue to do your research.

Your next task is to do some research on the car you are interested. Start with some general research into the type of car and its history of problems. Some cars are known to be problematic at certain mileage points or have a list of recalls on different parts. Check into these problems before buying a car that is approaching a mileage range that is known to create flaws. With that information in mind you can move onto more detailed research. There are a number of online resources that have specific car history reports. Almost all of these websites have a fee, but the small fee is well worth it if you delve up some information that saves you thousands in the long run. This is where the VIN number comes in handy. This way you know the exact background to the car sitting on the lot.

If the seller has nothing to hide they will most likely let you take the car to your mechanic for a "check-up." Thus, your next step is taking a second test drive right on down to your trusted mechanic. This time, when you are driving you can take a closer look at the aspects most important to you. Usually for a small fee your mechanic will also take the car around the block and listen for any abnormalities, maybe even a hesitation. They will also look under the hood and do a multi-point inspection of fluid levels, hoses, belts, lights etc. Finally, ask your mechanic to look for previous damage. They can sometimes tell if the car has been in an accident before, or even if the vehicle has been repainted.

After doing your homework on the car and you still don’t find any faults that can not be fixed, it is time to go ahead and make the purchase. From all of the research you have done you should have a good knowledge of the car and its worth. With this knowledge you set yourself up nicely to negotiate a fair price. Don’t forget to inquire about warranties too! Often the best warranty plans for used cars are available online. Once the papers are signed it is time to sit back and enjoy your new ride!

Jake Newberry sells Sacramento used cars for NuStar Motors, which specializes in lifted 4×4 trucks and fast cars such as Mustangs, Cameros, and Honda V-techs.

Consumer Reports List of Used Cars To Avoid Buying

ATTENTION: My great grandfather started in the auto business over 80 years ago, which means I was brought up hearing about cars all the time! Which is good for you, because I am now passing on the information.

The following article will reveal the most unreliable vehicles from model years 1998 to 2005 and alert you to those that have been problematic. This data is compiled by Consumer Reports and ConsumerReports.org readers from April 1, 2004 until March 31st 2005 (the next report comes out in April 2007). This is highly valuable and cost saving information, as you don’ t want to buy a car with problems with the transmission or cooling system because these can be serious and expensive to repair. In this first part I will tell you the most unreliable used cars; in the second part I will tell you the most reliable used cars. Read both parts one and two in order to make the most educated buying decision possible. Please feel free to use this information as you wish, brought to you by honest dealers at Ourisman Hyundai in Marlyland.

Why avoid the following used cars? There are hundreds of cars that you should avoid buying–but the following list of cars are models that you MUST avoid because these models have shown multiple years of much worse than average Used Car Verdicts. They have regularly shown more problems than most models each production year, so do yourself and others a favor and help keep them off the road.

BMW X5 (V8) Chevrolet Blazer Chevrolet Express 1500 Chevrolet S-10 (4WD) Chevrolet TrailBlazer Chevrolet Venture Chrysler Town & Country (AWD) Dodge Grand Caravan (AWD) GMC Envoy GMC Jimmy GMC Safari GMC Savana 1500 GMC Sonoma (4WD) Jaguar S-Type Jaguar X-Type Kia Sedona Land Rover Discovery Lincoln LS Lincoln Navigator Mercedes-Benz CLK Mercedes-Benz E-Class (V8) Oldsmobile Alero Oldsmobile Bravada Oldsmobile Silhouette Pontiac Aztek Pontiac Trans Sport/Montana Saturn Vue (AWD) Volkswagen Cabrio Volkswagen Jetta Volkswagen New Beetle Volkswagen Passat Wagon (V6) Volvo XC90.

There you have it. The must know list of used cars to avoid from an honest hyundai auto dealer in Maryland. These are the cars that have regularly shown more problems than most models each production year, so do yourself and others a favor and help keep them off the road. Too many times, consumers don’t understand the details of the cars they are buying, so I hope from this list readers can make an educated buying decision on their next purchase. Stay tuned for part two, the list of cars that are good bets to buy.

Some Tips For Getting A Great Deal On A Used Car

You can get an excellent deal on a used car with a lot of life left in it if you’re willing to put some effort into the search process and take a few precautions along the way. Here’s what you do..

You can get an excellent deal on a used car with a lot of life left in it if you’re willing to put some effort into the search process and take a few precautions along the way. One of the main keys to getting an excellent deal on a used car is to buy from a party more interested in getting rid of or replacing the used car than interested in making a profit off it. Most of the time getting an excellent deal on a used car means not buying from a used car dealer, except when the dealer has had a particular car on the lot for a very long time.

Tip #1: Consider Used Cars From Rental Agencies

A lot of people recommend not buying a used car from rental agencies. They believe people who rent cars treat them poorly. But, that may not be good advice. While renters have been known to treat rental cars poorly, it does not happen often. Further, rental agency used cars’ engines are usually maintained better than privately owned cars as they are put through constant maintenance during use.

Tip #2: Look Online For Used Cars

The used cars that you see advertised in the newspaper are a small sample of the number of used cars available throughout the U.S. This is mainly due to geographical limitations. Newspapers and other periodicals with classified ads serve a market within limited geography. Search for used cars online at sites such as UsedCars.com and CarsDirect.com. You will likely find a better deal on a great used car since you have many more from which to choose.

Tip #3: Get A Vehicle History Report

If you are buying a used car, you must get a history report on that vehicle. If you fail to get the history, you could be buying a car that has any number of serious issues that could come back to haunt you. When you have found a likely candidate for purchase, get the car’s VIN number and visit Experian.com. They get most of their data about used vehicles from dealers and repair shops. This is the only way to find out if a car has been in a major accident, sustained irreparable damage due to flooding, frame damage, leaks, etc.

Tip #4: Consider Buying From A Private Party

Many people buy used cars from car dealers. But, there are many great deals waiting in the driveways of private sellers. Often, you can get a better deal by buying a used car from a private party than a dealer because there is no middleman involved in the transaction. When you find a used car from a private seller, get the VIN number and run a car title search through Experian.com. That way, you will know the history of the car, its true value and any room you may have to negotiate.

Finally, don’t be hesitant to pay a mechanic to look over the car for you before you make your purchase decision. The mechanic may not see everything, but he will be able to pick out things you wouldn’t pick out. A clean bill of health from a mechanic is not a guarantee, but it is really the best way to certify that you have gotten an excellent deal on a used car.

Why Don’t You Buy Used Cars Online?

Has the time come to replace your car or are you worried that you may end up having to pay large bills to have your car fixed soon? Most people would agree that the cheapest way to replace an old vehicle is to buy used cars. Of course it is cheaper to buy an older car than it is to buy anew one. But it is only logical to have doubts about the age, safety and look of an older car.

Fortunatel You will pay less for used cars than for new cars. The difference in price can run up to over ten thousand dollars. If you are considering buying a used car make sure to check the price of a new vehicle of the same type and see what you can save.

Used cars are often more responsive to a driver than completely new cars. You know how you have to spend time ‘breaking in’ a new car before it feels comfortable to drive it? This is not the case with used cars.

Insurance fees for used cars are often much lower than for new cars. Your insurer thinks that your new car is more likely to get damaged or stolen, and research has shown that new cars are of course more prone to theft.

So what is the best way to buy used cars? You may think that finding the best second hand car for you is a huge task. Most people are convinced that finding a great used car takes weeks if not months of browsing car dealerships to see what is on offer. And as the range of used cars available changes on a daily basis you could indeed end up spending a lot of time leafing through ads in newspapers and magazines and driving back and forth to car sellers.

There is an easier way to buy used cars! With the Internet at your fingertips finding the best car for you is an easy task. Find car dealers near you (but many dealers will be happy to drive your used car over to you for a test run) online and browse the cars on offer at your leisure. Spend as much or as little time as you want on your car hunt and let the online car dealer know what you are looking for so they can alert you when a new car comes in to be sold.

Those interested in buying used cars online can be sure that they will be able to enjoy the same level of service as offered by a regular car dealer. You can try out your used car of choice and spend as much time as you want deciding what car you like. The advice and service provided by the dealer will help you with your choice and what is easier than browsing cars on the Internet from your own comfortable chair? Buying used cars is now easier than ever.

T. Brooks Ellingsen is an internet publisher of automotive stuff. Read his useful and popular articles about car repair and troubleshooting as well as how to buy used cars for a good price.y the market to buy used cars is ever expanding and nowadays buying a used car is just as good as obtaining a completely new one. There are very obvious benefits to buying second hand and remember that most used cars are not even that old. They may have been leased to someone for only half a year or two years max after which they (of course) cannot be sold as new anymore.

So what are the exact benefits of buying used cars?

Some of the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d's cabin tech features work very well, such as the iPod and Bluetooth phone integration. Handling at speed is particu

With a twin-turbo diesel engine, the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d lacks the immediate acceleration of the V-8 gasoline version we tested previously, but BMW handling characteristics are there in full force, and the improved fuel economy is a bonus.

This full-size SUV features all-wheel drive, and the diesel engine gives it the torque to handle some heavy-duty work. Where the gas version drove like a sports automobile, the diesel drives and sounds like a speedy tractor.

One big disappointment in the cabin was the old version of iDrive. The week before reviewing the X5 xDrive35d, they spent some time with the 335d, the diesel version of the 3-series. That automobile had BMW's radical reworking of iDrive, which proved an excellent interface, and made going back to the old version painful.