Wednesday, November 6, 2013
What To Look For When Choosing A Car Repair Workshop
A car repair workshop is a car owner's best friend. Even people who have knowledge in fixing their own cars have at least once in their life visited a vehicle repair shop to have a check on their car engines. But what should motor vehicle owners look for when they need a reliable car repair workshop that could handle any problems with their car engines that they would encounter?A car repair workshop should have competent mechanics. Mechanics that could handle multiple car engine types is a plus when it comes to choosing the right car repair shop to entrust your cars with. Auto repair workshops with well rounded mechanics are great especially when you have multiple vehicles of various car engines. Even though it is not bad to go to different car repair workshops for your different car engine types, having a single shop to provide service to all of your cars would save you time and give you convenience and ease.A motor vehicle restoration work shop that could give extra services is a plus. An automobile repair workshop that could give other services other than fixing motor engines is preferred. Shops that could also provides services such as car detailing, car accessories installation, upholstery and things like these gives a major advantage to car owners as these type of car repair workshops could serve as a one stop shop that could cater to all car owner needs other than troubles with car engines.The service cost of a car restoration workshop is a factor. Price is one of the most vital aspects to consider when going for a vehicle restoration. Most auto repair workshops can deliver quality service to car owners and get the job done, so when services are equal, a factor to look on to is the service cost of the repair. Be careful with shops that charge you extra for something other than repairing your motor engines that doesn't actually mean anything to you. The good automotive repair shop does what the customer requires and does not install or do extra work unless requested to.A motor vehicle restoration workshop is an invaluable partner for auto owners. Though the said characteristics of a repair workshop would sometimes be hard to find, it would be worth the search. A good auto repair work shop would mean a longer life to your motor engine, more savings, and less headache for you.
Domestic Car Repair - 5 Ways to Make Sure You Don't Get Screwed
Today's cars are becoming increasingly more complex, meaning that domestic car repair requires advanced expertise now more often than not. Unfortunately, this also means that as the general public is less likely to have the knowledge necessary to fix their own cars, some domestic car repair shops are more likely to take advantage of their customers' ignorance.As it turns out, not knowing much about domestic car repair can end up costing you quite a bit if your mechanic recommends unnecessary repairs. The Internet abounds with complaints and lawsuits alleging that auto repair shops charged their customers for unnecessary repairs. Here are 5 ways to protect oneself from being a victim in a similar case.1: Research every domestic car repair shop you are considering. Thorough research is your number one best weapon against devious mechanics. This means checking out a repair shop through ever means available to you: word-of-mouth, the Internet, and resources such as the Better Business Bureau.Ask around to see if anyone you know has used the repair shops you are considering, and whether their experiences were good or bad. You can also search for each repair shop's name on the Internet, as there are many forums online where people can post complaints, or praise, about their mechanics. Resources such as the Better Business Bureau can be found online and offline, and offer a way to check a business's standing and whether there are any unresolved complaints against them.2: Ask for recommendations. This isn't quite the same as independently researching domestic car repair shops. If you don't even know where to start, or you would rather go to a shop with which someone you know has had personal experience, you can ask around for recommendations. Rank recommendation according to how long your friend has been taking their car there for example, if they have been using the same mechanic for fifteen years, their recommendation means more than someone's who has just used that mechanic once.3: Ask lots of questions. It's perfectly fine to ask lots of questions before making a final decision to take your car there. For instance, you might want to ask about their prices, their guarantees or warrantees, how much experience their mechanics have, whether they have won any awards, and how they handle customer complaints.Another thing to ask about is the repair work you need done. Asking many thorough, intelligent questions about the repairs that will need to be done, and any related systems, indicates that you are interested in knowing more about your car. It also indicates that you are not an easy person to take advantage of. Finally, a repair shop that is unwilling to answer your questions should indicate that you are better off taking your car elsewhere.4: Show an interest in your car. When you take your car in for repairs, it is best not to leave it alone while you go to work or shop. Waiting for your car makes it harder for the repair shop to get away with unnecessary repairs. The shop needs to ask for approval before performing any work other than what you originally requested, and if you are right there waiting it will be easier to request a detailed explanation of the repair and why your car needs it.On the other hand, in cases where the repair shop calls to request permission, the customer usually requests less information before approving the repair and repair shops know this. Leaving is a sign that you are too busy to care about keeping tabs on your car's repairs.5: Request to see the problem. You often have a legal right to see the damaged part. This ensures two things: One, that the repair shop actually did replace the part, and didn't just clean the original part up and charge you for a replacement they never installed, and two, that the part did in fact need to be replaced.When asking to see a damaged part, always request that they show you the problem, that is, why the part needed to be replaced in the first place. Also ask to see the new part if they have it on hand, on the grounds that you would like to see the difference or see what an undamaged part looks like. If you are waiting for your car when they ask your permission, ask to see the problem before approving the repair work.The reason why domestic car repair shops get away with making unnecessary repairs is usually because the customer is too lazy to verify the need for the repair. You may have heard that a thief or rapist is more likely to choose a victim whose body language indicates that she is an easy target. The same goes with domestic car repair. The more interest and intelligence you show when dealing with an auto repair shop, the less likely a dishonest mechanic is to try to push unnecessary repairs on you. Your best method of protecting yourself is therefore to be as informed, and as involved, as possible.
Car Repairs Are Often Covered Under Car Warranty
Having to pay for car repair work can become quite expensive. The good news is that often you can have your car repair work costs covered under your car warranty. This is especially true for new cars but you can also have it for used cars as well.The cost of repair for the engine, engine block, transmission, clutch, axles and such can become extremely costly. If your car has a drive train or power train warranty on it, these car repair costs can be significantly reduced or completely paid for by the warranty. This will save you money in the long run.Many auto warranty companies offer a wear and tear car warranty for new cars and some limited amount of coverage for used cars. With the wear and tear car warranty, you can have items that are not covered on the drive train, power train or standard warranty repaired. For example, if you have electric windows for your car. The regular warranties will not cover the car repair costs to have the worn out motor replaced. However, if you have the wear and tear car warranty, you can get the motor for the electric window repaired for less because you only have to cover the deductible.It is very frustrating to have a flat tire anywhere, let alone on a busy road. If you have roadside assistance then the repair cost for fixing the flat tire or even replacing the tire completely will be significantly lower than without any type of roadside warranty coverage.A bumper-to-bumper car warranty can also save you expense on car repair requirements. While many people think that bumper-to-bumper means the entire car is covered this is a misconception. The majority of the car repairs problems will be covered but problems that resulted from wear and tear are not typically covered. The drive train or power train warranty only covers a small percentage of the car parts. Adding a bumper-to-bumper car warranty will help to reduce car repair costs for other sections of the auto. Find out more about saving money on car repairs and warranties at http://www.carwarrantypolicies.comMaintaining your car by the car warranty requirements is the best way to prevent high car repair bills. If an auto is properly maintained, there is less over-all wear and tear on the car which then results in fewer car repair problems. It is important to remember to check the transmission fluid, oil filter, oil levels and air pressure in the tires. Also, you will need to have the oil changed on a regular basis. This will make your car not only run more smoothly but will cut down on the over all car repair costs for the auto whether it is used or new.Some people argue that the cost of maintaining a car is expensive. After all you have to change the oil, change the oil filter and things like that. However, running the car without the maintenance can end up ruining things such as the engine, the transmission and even the clutch. These are extremely expensive repairs that most warranties of any kind will not cover the car repair costs because the basic maintenance was not carried through.
Issues Regarding Car Repair Loans
Bought an expensive car and wondering how to deal with car repairs? Do not fret. You can take car repair loans. Car repair loans can be utilized for the funding of expensive car repairs, paying for insurance deductibles and bringing a car in a wrecked up situation back to form. It is pretty obvious that everyone who buys a car these days faces an automobile breakdown at least once in life. And I am sure it does not surprise you when I say that it can take some hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair a car, depending on what exactly the problem is!So here in arises the need for a car repair loan. Basically these car loans are different from personal unsecured loans as money here is being invested on repairing of a vehicle. Sometimes repairs are restricted to situation to keep the car in a running situation but in all cases it is not just due to that a car owner opts for car repairs.We can notice that most policies need a well defined amount to be paid by the automobile owner, known as the deductible, and this is before the car insurance company pays anything for the repairs. Car repair loans can be needed to cover the deductible in case they do not have enough money to pay for it. There is not just one option when it comes to car loans! People have variety of options to meet their needs. The interest rate on lending of automobiles is taken as the current prime interest rate. In case there are some negative issues concerned with the borrower's credit, the lender in this case charges a higher rate of interest than the prime. These loans are basically known as the sub prime loans.The amount loaned for the purpose of car repair will not be more than one or two thousand dollars. In fact it is best for the borrower if he or she can repay the loan within twelve to twenty four months or sooner. In fact it should be taken into account by the borrowers that in case it is feasible for them to afford the car repair all by themselves, they should not opt for car repair loans altogether! The reason being that it requires intense self- discipline to put money into savings and regularly pay back the car repair loan.Automobile lending services can always make provisions for having an automobile repaired without having to diminish a person's savings. And it should be remembered that money should always be spent wisely. Obviously, car repair loans are no exception. So think before you leap!
Car Repair Loan - You Do Not Need to Miss Work Anymore
It is not easy to maintain a car and least of all to pay for a car repair loan out of your own pocket. A car looks so good to operate as long as it is working. The moment it breaks down and stops working, it looks like a white elephant who keeps on asking for more and more, every time. A major car breakdown can take hundreds of dollars for repairs. Sometimes, it may require some technical correction, which is not covered in the insurance. You can take a car repair loan to cover the cost of all kinds of payments to make your car fit to be on the road.Your Prayers Are AnsweredThe insurance cover of your car requires you to pay the deductible amount initially otherwise; the insurance company is not going to give any claim at all. If you have not saved enough money to tackle such emergencies, then a car repair loan may be your only answer. There are many programs of car loans; you have to choose the program that is convenient to you. Usually it is advisable to take a car repair loan for a period of one to two years. Moreover, a car repair loan is never more that a couple of thousand dollars. All your repairs will be covered under these terms.The next important thing that you need to check is the car loan rates currently running in the market. Usually, the prime lending rate will be charged from you. However, if you have bad credit rating then you may have to pay a higher rate of interest on your car repair loan than the prime lending rate. Do not waste too much time on thinking whether to take on a particular rate or not; sometimes a delay can cost you your job as well. A car repair loan can put you right behind the steering wheel, once again. Car rents are very high and if you decide to take that route initially, you may end up paying much more than what you would have paid on your car repair loan.If you look at it, you will find that your car loan will be cheaper than a refinance car loan rate. Therefore, instead of looking for some friend or relative to bail you out of this untimely crisis, take a car repair loan for the uncovered part of your car insurance and pay a small amount of price towards the deductible amount. For those of you who do not have any consideration to pay, you can apply for the whole amount by the way of car repair loan. If you look carefully, you will find many online companies willing to give you car loans without charging any service fees for the first time. You have to repay the loan on the next payday date of your salary, if you apply for such a car repair loan.
Auto Repair Average Costs- Why Mechanics Will Fight Tooth and Nail to Dictate Car Repair Prices
Every now and again we get a few upset mechanics or shop owners complaining that it is not possible for RepairTrust to provide accurate car repair estimates. They go on to say that we don't know what we're talking about...that we're idiots...and many other colorful words.Following is one such discussion on car repair costs. It's highlighted here to illustrate the resistance and defiance of the auto repair industry to anyone suggesting a fair car repair price - even an average - other than the repair facility itself.This particular shop owner writes via email (edited for this article):I would like you to inform me on "what" I should charge for a given repair without you knowing anything about my business, about my warranty, my benefits for employees, my services or overhead. Please explain with clarity how you can predetermine the cost of doing business from one location to another.I would really be surprised if anyone replied to this request. Advise at a cost?? Come-on boys... lets come up with intelligent response here...RepairTrust immediately responded:Hello,Thank you for contacting RepairTrust. We very much appreciate your thoughts.Your question is a great one, and it has been raised before by other auto repair professionals in the industry.Just so I'm clear, you'd like to know how we can price a job fairly
without ever seeing it or knowing a shop's particular set-up (salary, overhead...etc.)This question, again, while a good one, always surprises me.I've been estimating car repairs on all makes and models both foreign and domestic for well over twenty years. I would suspect that as a repair shop owner you provide estimates to your clients on a daily basis as well. Most times this is done while the vehicle is in your possession. Other times, customers would like you to tell them what certain repairs are going to cost prior to coming in - correct...?Letting customers know what repairs are going to cost ahead of time is just one of the many services that RepairTrust provides.How we do it is simple:The labor rate is the labor rate (we used the client's shop labor rate).The labor times are determined from fair and well-established industry pricing standards (discussed at length in our books).Part prices are part prices (MSRP anyway, and less the matrix). This is also discussed at length in our materials.Premium aftermarket parts are strikingly similar in cost across the nation. Miscellaneous charges, flat fees, shop supplies, hazardous waste, disposal charges...etc, follow a similar pattern as well.We even go so far as to account for local taxes, labor rates, and unforeseen circumstances (rust, corrosion...all the stuff a tech runs into during a repair).As a shop owner, when you provide an estimate, am I correct in assuming that you would add "barring any unforeseen circumstances" to any price you quoted?A RepairTrust auto repair estimate is detailed, accurate, and fair for both the car repair customer and the repair facility. Our primary goal is FAIR.As for charging to provide a fair, accurate, and unbiased auto repair estimate, we know the value of our service, as do our clients.The fact is that 98% of all repair shops are charging excessive car repair prices, and the consumer has no resource in which to turn. This statistic is supported by every government consumer agency - including Alaska, major and independent news sources, as well as a variety of consumer advocate groups.The problem of excessive car repair prices is not just national; it's intercontinental. Australia recently found that auto repair shops were number 4 on their top 10 consumer complaint list.I hope this answers at least some of your questions.Thank you again for your comments, and please keep the professional lines of
communication open.Sincerely,-Ted OlsonFounder, RepairTrust.com
without ever seeing it or knowing a shop's particular set-up (salary, overhead...etc.)This question, again, while a good one, always surprises me.I've been estimating car repairs on all makes and models both foreign and domestic for well over twenty years. I would suspect that as a repair shop owner you provide estimates to your clients on a daily basis as well. Most times this is done while the vehicle is in your possession. Other times, customers would like you to tell them what certain repairs are going to cost prior to coming in - correct...?Letting customers know what repairs are going to cost ahead of time is just one of the many services that RepairTrust provides.How we do it is simple:The labor rate is the labor rate (we used the client's shop labor rate).The labor times are determined from fair and well-established industry pricing standards (discussed at length in our books).Part prices are part prices (MSRP anyway, and less the matrix). This is also discussed at length in our materials.Premium aftermarket parts are strikingly similar in cost across the nation. Miscellaneous charges, flat fees, shop supplies, hazardous waste, disposal charges...etc, follow a similar pattern as well.We even go so far as to account for local taxes, labor rates, and unforeseen circumstances (rust, corrosion...all the stuff a tech runs into during a repair).As a shop owner, when you provide an estimate, am I correct in assuming that you would add "barring any unforeseen circumstances" to any price you quoted?A RepairTrust auto repair estimate is detailed, accurate, and fair for both the car repair customer and the repair facility. Our primary goal is FAIR.As for charging to provide a fair, accurate, and unbiased auto repair estimate, we know the value of our service, as do our clients.The fact is that 98% of all repair shops are charging excessive car repair prices, and the consumer has no resource in which to turn. This statistic is supported by every government consumer agency - including Alaska, major and independent news sources, as well as a variety of consumer advocate groups.The problem of excessive car repair prices is not just national; it's intercontinental. Australia recently found that auto repair shops were number 4 on their top 10 consumer complaint list.I hope this answers at least some of your questions.Thank you again for your comments, and please keep the professional lines of
communication open.Sincerely,-Ted OlsonFounder, RepairTrust.com
Car Repair Scams: Why Traditional Scam Prevention Tips Will Cost You A Fortune
The advice is all the same for auto repair scam prevention. You'll be told to find an ASE certified shop. Ask around. Check out several different repair facilities first. Are they clean and neat? Do they provide written estimates? Check with the BBB. Is it AAA certified? Some will even advise to "ask for the parts back."Traditional tips and suggestions merely put a band-aid over an infected, gaping sore. Strong antibiotics are required to address the root source of the problems in the repair industry. To provide repair customers with the above advice is like sending a soldier into combat dressed in a pink tutu. We have to stop scratching at the surface.There has not been any "new" advice in decades. More importantly, no one has answered why car repair scams have reached an estimated 40 billion dollars per year. Moreover, why is there still no solution to stop car repair scams?The first hurdle to conquer is the perception of the frequency of auto repair scams. Many folks just don't believe that car repair fraud is all that bad. Some even argue that the vast majority of repair shops do an honest day's work, and that a few bad apples are making the rest look like crooks.This is an interesting argument, and raises a number of questions.
If it is only a few "bad apples," where are they hiding the 40 billion?
If most repair shops are honest, why does every state warn against car repair scams?
Why are auto repair shops at the top of consumer complaint lists every single year, in every state?
Why are repair scams spreading across the continents? For example, just last week Australia listed car repair scams at number 4 on their top 10 consumer complaint list.
The perception of frequency gets distorted because there are a number of levels to repair scams. There are the blatant rip-offs covered in the news. Then there are the common scams such as exorbitant prices and estimates, and aggressive scare tactics to get service customers to perform services. These occur every day.The repair scams uncovered by RepairTrust not only found the tactics listed above and more, but a powerful undercurrent of scamming at the foundation of the automotive service industry. In reality, most car repair scams go unnoticed by the service consumer. Service customers just have no idea that they were ripped-off. This under-the-radar scamming occurs in dealerships, local shops, and franchises. Affiliation with ASE, AAA, BBB, NADA makes no difference.An ASE patch on a technician's arm, or an AAA or BBB sticker on the door of a service center means absolutely nothing in terms of a scam-free facility. Word of mouth recommendations can be just as devastating, as even shops that "seem" honest aren't. Check out Car Repair Prices: There Are No Honest Mechanics @ EzineArticles or RepairTrust for further discussion on this. Also, for NEW and FREE scam prevention tips visit the Car Repair Scam Articles @ RepairTrust.Traditional tips are ineffective in today's service industry. Service facilities have found new and ingenious ways of ripping people off. In truth, many of the old tips and suggestions have actually become weapons allowing service centers to indulge in car repair scams more than ever.The car repair playing field must be leveled. Service customers need solid answers, and they need to be equipped with information, understanding, tools, and an insider's view of the who, what, when, where, why, and how of price-gouging. Navigating the dim underworld of today's service centers with outdated information will cost a fortune.For a great video visit "Repair Scams Caught on Video" @ http://www.repairtrust.com
If it is only a few "bad apples," where are they hiding the 40 billion?
If most repair shops are honest, why does every state warn against car repair scams?
Why are auto repair shops at the top of consumer complaint lists every single year, in every state?
Why are repair scams spreading across the continents? For example, just last week Australia listed car repair scams at number 4 on their top 10 consumer complaint list.
The perception of frequency gets distorted because there are a number of levels to repair scams. There are the blatant rip-offs covered in the news. Then there are the common scams such as exorbitant prices and estimates, and aggressive scare tactics to get service customers to perform services. These occur every day.The repair scams uncovered by RepairTrust not only found the tactics listed above and more, but a powerful undercurrent of scamming at the foundation of the automotive service industry. In reality, most car repair scams go unnoticed by the service consumer. Service customers just have no idea that they were ripped-off. This under-the-radar scamming occurs in dealerships, local shops, and franchises. Affiliation with ASE, AAA, BBB, NADA makes no difference.An ASE patch on a technician's arm, or an AAA or BBB sticker on the door of a service center means absolutely nothing in terms of a scam-free facility. Word of mouth recommendations can be just as devastating, as even shops that "seem" honest aren't. Check out Car Repair Prices: There Are No Honest Mechanics @ EzineArticles or RepairTrust for further discussion on this. Also, for NEW and FREE scam prevention tips visit the Car Repair Scam Articles @ RepairTrust.Traditional tips are ineffective in today's service industry. Service facilities have found new and ingenious ways of ripping people off. In truth, many of the old tips and suggestions have actually become weapons allowing service centers to indulge in car repair scams more than ever.The car repair playing field must be leveled. Service customers need solid answers, and they need to be equipped with information, understanding, tools, and an insider's view of the who, what, when, where, why, and how of price-gouging. Navigating the dim underworld of today's service centers with outdated information will cost a fortune.For a great video visit "Repair Scams Caught on Video" @ http://www.repairtrust.com
Various Types of Car Repair Insurance Policies For Your Dream Car
When shopping for car repair insurance, it is important to note that there are many different types of policies. In order to get the best bang for your buck, you should take various factors into account. For example, what make, model, and year is your car? What kind of coverage are you looking for? What is the main purpose you would like to achieve by having car repair insurance? The informed consumer always does their research first. Initially, the buyer looking to buy insurance needs to consider the following:Different Types of Auto Repair Insurance:Automobile Liability - Liability auto repair insurance is actually available in two forms. You can purchase bodily injury liability or property damage liability insurance. These two types of car repair insurance are pretty self explanatory. Body liability insurance will cover any bodily injury (car passengers) only so while it is lumped in as a "car insurance", this would not cover any car repairs. Property damage liability insurance would cover damage caused to your car as well as any public property that is damaged in the case of an accident.Collision Insurance - Collision insurance covers the damage repair to your car when you collide with another car or even an inanimate object. This is not for "general repairs" needed to your car however. This insurance would only come into play if you "hit" something with your car, whether it's another automobile or some kind of object / property. Regardless of the collision, this type of insurance will cover the repair (or replacement) of your car, even in the case of severe accidents such as a rolled vehicle. Collision insurance is one of the most common types of car repair insurance because it has a wide coverage blanket, meaning many more type of repairs are covered under this type of a policy.Comprehensive Insurance - Comprehensive insurance covers solely repairs for damages that could have been incurred due to an elemental damage. This means any damage caused by another driver or the owner of the vehicle would not be covered. However, elemental damage would include any damage caused to the car from water, hail, vandalism, theft, animal collision, wind or fire. This coverage will cover any "natural" accident that is not caused by a car on car or car on inanimate object collision.When deciding between types of policies, it is important to weigh your options and take all the aspects of your daily life into consideration. For example, if you live in an area that is prone to extreme weather conditions; comprehensive insurance might be a good idea. However if you live in a mild and stable climate, it might be a better idea to opt for a different more appropriate type of car repair insurance. Choose the best option for you and your family based on your location, car, and budget. Remember though, if you do spend just a little bit more money to get the best car repair insurance money can buy, then you will at least be safeguarding yourself against any unexpected accidents or unforeseen circumstances.
Do I Need Car Repair Insurance for Used Cars
Used car repair insurance is an absolute necessity for anyone who has an older car. Some people think that as long as you take good care of your car, that there's no point to getting a policy to cover it. Unfortunately these people often find that even after keeping up with maintenance appointments, oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections, their old car needs repairs sooner or later. That's where insurance comes in.While some people choose not to get a policy, others know it is the wise thing to do. It is a worthwhile process to get a quote, read over the terms, and decide on the coverage that is right for you.Why a Used Car Repair Insurance Policy is ImportantWithout a policy, you run the risk of having to pay excessive repair costs when the time comes to get things replaced or fixed. This happens after your initial car warranty ran out, when such bills are no longer helped by the special protection offered by the maker or dealership. Most used cars fit into this category after 30 to 90 days. Some never come with such a warranty or only include limited coverage.Extending the coverage helps to protect your finances and car. With lower costs, you can more easily afford any mishaps that occur throughout the life of your car. It also protects your car by allowing for repairs to be done in a more timely manner than may have otherwise been possible without a policy. The longer you wait for repairs to be done, the worse of a situation you may be faced with down the road.Frequently Asked QuestionsThere are some common questions that people seeking used car repair insurance are wondering. This FAQ section will help you get some of the answers you need, as soon as possible. You will discover whether or not you are a good candidate for a policy, as well as how much it might cost you. There are also answers regarding how much is covered and what kind of discounts may be found.Do I Need a Policy?Honestly, anyone with a used car needs to consider getting car repair insurance. Policies are for people who take their automobile and finances seriously. Without coverage, you face potential consequences. If you are unable to pay in full for necessary repairs, you may be out of luck when you don't have the ability to file a claim. That's why it's important to get coverage sooner rather than later.How Much Does Used Car Repair Insurance Cost?Costs escalate according to a number of factors. Your specific costs can usually be more accurately determined by getting a price quote. Since coverage takes care of potential situations like needing an engine overhaul or new transmission, you can expect insurance costs and deductibles to reflect potentially expensive repair scenarios.You may also be faced with hidden taxes, surcharges, claim fees, and processing fees. It's important to read over the full list of terms of a policy before you agree to a particular one. This will give you a good idea of the exact costs you may be faced with in the future.Is it Easy to Find Discounts for Insurance?Sometimes you can find discounts on car insurance. It helps to know the right places to look. Since costs can be high for some individuals, it may be worth your time to browse around for the best deals. Our website can help you find the prices that are right for you.What is Covered by a Policy?Auto body repair costs are covered by an insurance policy for used cars. This is done according to the assessor's estimate of the total repair cost. According to the specific terms of your coverage, the car is required to be returned to you in the same condition as it was before the repairs were needed. The type of your insurance policy coverage is going to determined what is covered.You now should have a good idea of the most common questions asked with regards to insurance and how it can help you in the future. Hopefully with this information in your hands, you are now more comfortable with the idea of used car repair insurance and how it can help you.
Save Money On Your Car Repairs
Every car will break down sooner or later and is never exciting when you have to unexpectedly call your mechanic to see if they can squeeze you in for an appointment, and the situation easily could made worse by expensive repair bills. A large population of us are at the mercy of our mechanics when it comes time for a serious repair to are automobiles, however it doesn't have to be this way, with just a little bit of education, you can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars every year, but don't worry, there is a silver lining! The two most important things that come to mind are; THINKING AHEAD & PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE. It's true an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and by thinking ahead you can save yourself some cash when your car winds up in the shop next time. Here are a few tips to help you accomplish this.Locate a reputable repair shop beforehand.The first step toward keeping as much of your hard-earned dollars as possible is going to a well-educated experienced mechanic. Find a honest auto repair shop with a great reputation for performing quality work and one you can trust, check out their website and look for training certification such as ASE (a good housekeeping seal of approval from the nonprofit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) If you're not sure where else to start, ask for recommendations from family, friends and coworkers who has used the shop before, also, read online customer reviews, research the repair shop through the Better Business Bureau or call the Department of Justice and check for any complaints from previous customers, this will ensure you they're in good standing and should give you a good solid in-site of their track history of dealing with the general public.Once you find that right repair shop stick with it! As a dedicated customer is can be a huge plus for you in terms of getting "little freebies" the owner may just reward you with a free oil change or go out of his way and perform a little extra repair or he may even give a discount off your bill for sending him referrals, Oh and don't forget to make sure those referrals have indicated to the repair shop owner who sent them his way.Follow Manufacturer Recommended Maintenance SchedulesYour automobiles service manual was printed for a reason, your owner's manual should outline all of the recommended maintenance schedule(s), most of the time you can prevent expensive car repairs or problems before they begin by following these schedule(s), automobile manufacturers include these service schedules for items they know will certainly need attention within a set time frame, or number of miles, for example, you should get your oil changed, coolant flushed or transmission serviced according to the maintenance schedule - every xx xx miles for your automobile, or if you don't drive very many miles, every 6-12 months or so. In addition, by reading your manual it should tell you when replace your timing belt, transmission fluid, and other commonly serviceable parts of your car, this will save you from any surprises and falling victim to an up sell from your repair shop. If an item isn't covered in the maintenance manual with a certain mileage or time frame, use common sense, or refer to your mechanic. Most of the time a service centers will offer car inspections for free when you get your car serviced or for around $25-$50 if you decide you don't want to perform any repairs at that time.Take your car to an independent repair shop vs. the dealer.If your vehicle is no longer covered by a factory warranty, there's absolutely no need to take it to a dealer for service. Dealerships typically charge more and have huge overhead expenses and most of the time there service writers and technicians are commissions based and trained to up sell if not oversell a recommended service or repair. Many local shops are just as well equipped and qualified to handle whatever is wrong with your vehicle as the dealer is, with the ability for independent shops to purchase nearly all of the manufacturers electronic repair data from aftermarket vender's, now days it takes all the guess work out of the equation when they need technical data to reference. Also, the owner of an independent repair shop is more likely to provide a better personal family atmosphere/experience. Don't be afraid to ask your independent repair shop if they can email or send you coupons in the mail, assuming they have any, this will in turn lower your expenses.Don't ignore strange sounds.For example; the notorious brake squeal- If your brakes emit a constant high-pitched whine don't ignore it and turn up the radio, letting a brake squeal can turn into a full blown "replace everything" brake job and is very costly, this annoying sound may just be an indication you're ready for a basic brake job and doesn't necessarily mean you need new rotors or calipers, you can probably see your front brakes through the wheels on your car to visualize the thickness of the pads, pads thicker than a quarter-inch are probably fine. If your pads are thinner than a quarter-inch, replace them. If your car shimmies or you feel grinding through the pedal, then your brake rotors need to be turned or replaced, if you let the noise go to long it may cost you a pair of calipers.Online and offline researchCheck the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see if a technical service bulletin (TSB) has been issued about your car and the component in question. Manufacturers often will repair known defects outside the warranty period (sometimes called a secret warranty)Keep good records.A logbook of every repair done to your car can help you decide if somethings seriously out of whack. Didn't I just buy new brake pads? With a log and an envelope stuffed with receipts, you'll know who did the work and when and whether or not there's a warranty on the repair. And a service logbook helps at resale time, too.Buy or not to buy an extended warranty.Most manufacturers allow you to wait until just before the regular warranty expires to decide, by then you should know whether your car is troublesome enough to require the extended warranty. A well prepared aftermarket extended warranty can save pay for itself if done right, I would highly recommend it right away if you're buying a higher mileage vehicle especially a domestic or European vehicle, Asian made cars are typically more reliable especially Honda, Toyota and Nissan so it may not pay to purchase a warranty, however it really boils down to how well the car was maintained.Save GasNot keeping your tires properly inflated can lead to premature replacement and cost you, check them once a month; otherwise you're wasting gasoline, you're also risking a blowout and wearing them out more quickly. Also get rid of that dead weight in the trunk, tire chains, tool chest, or just unneeded stuff stored in your trunk is costing you. Tune-up your car, change your air filter and fuel filter. Change to synthetic motor oil, your engine performance is better, runs with less resistance and uses less gas.
How To Budget for Car Repairs While Erasing Debt
Whether new or old your car will need maintenance while you are trying to get out of debt. Ranging from routine oil changes to emergency transmission repairs, cars always require some sort of work to be performed on them. It is our unpreparedness to meet these maintenance needs that turns car ownership into a debt nightmare. Not being prepared for an auto repair leads to it being an emergency and how do most people pay for these emergencies? By putting them on a credit card of course. Which over time can add up. Here is How To Budget for Car Repairs While Erasing Debt.1. Cars Will Require Routine MaintenanceIf you drive a car then you must come to the understanding that cars will require routine maintenance over time. Even if you own a brand new car, there are routine maintenance requirements that will have to be performed at regular intervals. Check your owners manual for the schedule but usually it's something like at 1000 miles then 20,000 miles, 35,000 miles, 60,000 miles, 90,000 miles, and so on. On top of that cars will require having their old changed approximately every 3000 to 5000 miles.These routine maintenance intervals should not be emergencies. They are laid out very clearly for you by the auto manufacturer. So you should have plenty of time to budget and prepare for them.2. Cars Will Require Unexpected RepairsSecondly, you must come to the understanding that cars will require unexpected repairs over time. What we often call emergency repairs. Under the hood, cars are a symphony of lots of moving, mechanical parts. These parts wear out from use over time. Expect that over time you will have to repair the muffler, the transmission, the radiator, the fuel injectors, the engine. Tires will need replacing. Brake pads will have to be replaced. Therefore, they really should not be unexpected. The only unpredictable piece will probably be how much a particular repair may cost.3. Budget For ItSo how do you prepare for any auto repair? You budget of course. Each month or maybe each paycheck determine a fixed dollar amount that you want to place in your car repair fund. $100 per month is a good goal to shoot for. If you can't afford that much right away then make it any amount you can afford. $20 or $50 per month are good targets too. Any amount is better than nothing.4. Car FundWhatever amount of money you budget place that money into a "car fund." Nothing complicated. Set up a separate savings account at your bank that is dedicated to car repairs if you like. Then you can just transfer the money in there online yourself, or have your company direct deposit the money for you into that account if they offer that service. If you are good at tracking your money, you could even just keep it in a general savings account fund and then track how much of that money is set aside for car repairs in a spreadsheet. Pick a method that you like for where to keep the money.5. Budget a Little ExtraLook at your routine maintenance schedules at the beginning of the year to see what planned maintenance may be required. You should even be able to get a list of these from your dealership's service department or your mechanic with approximate pricing. Then budget a little extra each month so you can budget and meet those costs when the time comes.6. Emergency FundNotice that up to this point no mention has been made about dipping into your emergency funds. By now you should realize that your cars will need repairs. And if you budget all year long in anticipation of these, then most scenarios should not really be an emergency. But just a temporary inconvenience. However, there will come a time where a car repair will be so large that you might not quite have all the money in your car fund to pay for it. Then in that case pay what you can from your car fund. And then dip into your emergency fund to cover the rest.ConclusionBy now you should realize that car repairs, whether routine or unexpected, will have to be made every year. By creating a car fund and budgeting for these you can easily cover 95% of all car repairs without them becoming emergencies. And no need to pay for them with credit cards. For any amount that you cannot cover with the car fund then go to your emergency fund to cover the rest. So start budgeting for car repairs, continue to erase debt, and build wealth.
Auto Repair Using Online Car Repair Manual
Just like with almost any new gadget or appliance, each brand-new vehicle comes with a manual. It doesn't provide the basic instructions on how to drive your vehicle-you should have already learned that in driving school. What a car owner's manual provides are explanations on how to use the car's different components and features, such as the windshield wipers, defroster, turn signal lights, etc. And depending on the car's manufacturer, the manual may also contain tips and reminders on basic car maintenance (like when to replace your tires), defensive driving (appropriate use seat belt and airbag), and responsible car ownership (basic road rules you should comply with).However, don't confuse a car owner's manual with a car repair guide. If the first deals with the basic how-to's in operating a car's different systems, a car repair manual deals with, well, auto repair. Like a car owner's manual, a repair manual may still contain illustrations, instructions, and tips on how to use and maintain your car, but it's more focused on providing comprehensive instructions in system repairs and auto parts replacement. And if you think that car repair has a very wide coverage that it should be hard to put them all in a single manual, you couldn't be more correct.If we're going to compile all kinds of repairs one can do in a car, we'd probably be able to produce literally tens of thousands of pages of car repair instructions. That's why auto repair manuals-whether in print or soft/online copy-come in different kinds. There are the generic car repair guide that cover basic troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of the most commonly replaced components such as turn signals, windshield wiper inserts, and fuses. And because they're generic, they can be referred to for repairing different vehicle makes and models.If there are generic repair manuals, there are also vehicle-specific repair manuals. These basically have the same content as the generic manuals. But because they're specifically made for certain vehicle makes and models, they could provide instructions on more complicated and vehicle-specific diagnoses and auto repairs.So, if you want to troubleshoot and repair your car, be sure to refer to the right auto repair manual-get a generic manual for basic repairs and a vehicle-specific manual if the trouble is unique to your ride. With a good auto repair manual at hand, it would definitely be easy for you to learn and perform a DIY fix for your ride.
My Experiences With an Out of State Car Repair Shop
Finding car repair services that are trustworthy and efficient is not easy these days. For someone like me whose basic knowledge in automotive is limited to turning on the engine and shifting gears, I get scammed more often than not when my car break down... not until I found a Utah car repair shop.Only the Utah car repair services can provide the best repair and maintenance for my car. Repairing cars is a complicated matter to be done personally. Even if you have the time but you don't know much about them, you can just end up with additional costs. Iif by any chance that you are succeed at doing the repairs yourself, there's really no assurance that it won't break down again for the next 2 days.Consulting and getting the services of a Utah car repair shop has assured me that I won't experience the same problem with my car. This, I have proven countless of times.Other than basic engine repairs, a Utah car repair shop also provides the best auto body repairs and enhancement. As a matter of fact, it's the best Utah auto body shop. The Utah auto body shop has excellent services that are very useful in maintaining your car's beauty and condition. I had them work on major repainting and interior maintenance for my car.The Utah auto body shop once repaired my car's body after a fender bender. When I saw the result of the repair, I could hardly believe how my car looked like. Yeah, it surprisingly looked brand new, with the gleaming windows and flawless exterior. The dents and scratches on the surface were all fixed with a trace.I was wondering how they did that. I asked some of the employees of the shop, out of curiosity. The employees were kind enough to share with me their secret. They told me that unlike other car services, they use state of the art equipment in repairing cars.They also use high tech and industry leading paint mixing system, which explains how my 2-year-old car looked brand new after the process. The same process works for cars with special designs and logos.A Utah car repair shop's excellent and diverse services are the very reason that made the Utah auto body shop the top car repair and detailing service. You can never compare their service to other car services out there. If you won't believe me, then you better try their service and see the difference!
During Troubled Times Car Repairs Make More Sense
What's true within the United States is not always true in Canada. However, this is not the case when it comes to the recent economic recession. This economic downtown is worldwide, which makes economic news in the United States the same (if not similar) to the events happen in Canada. According to a recent U.S. based survey prompted by AAMCO, more consumers are neglecting to purchase new cars. Instead, consumers are attempting to save money by repairing aging cars.Mike Ganjei (AAMCO Dealers Association) recently stated (based on the AAMCO study findings) that "consumers clearly prefer maintaining and repairing their cars rather than buying new ones" (Reuters). Making necessary adjustments to existing automobiles makes a lot of sense during these dire times. Canadian consumers are following suit by bringing cars to repair centers rather than purchasing new ones.Garages have seen a rise in business over the past few months due to this car repair phenomenon. In fact, the car repair business might be one of the few businesses that are "recession proof." For most consumers, repairing an existing vehicle is a much better option (and much less of a monetary commitment) than purchasing a new one. The problem is that not all consumers can afford to repair their cars due to a lack of cash flow.Add this cash flow problem to the fact that most people need their cars to get to and from work (or to look for new work), and the entire situation looks rather grim. The good news (as some consumers are now finding out) is that there's a new kind of loan on the market that provides a bit of wiggle-room when it comes to car repairs. Some private lenders are issuing "car repair loans" that prove to be lifesaving in this economy.Car repair loans do not require a spotless credit history, though they do often require car ownership. Those that can qualify for these loans are joining the ranks of those that have found car repairs to be a much wiser solution to an aging automobile problem. While "buying a new car is a major investment and perhaps not an option at this time for some consumers because of the troubled economy and uncertainty in the job market..." (Reuters), repairing one's car is an all-around better option. Thanks to unique car repair loans, all consumers (no matter what their job situation might be) have a viable transportation option.
Car Repair Service
Car repair service is something that it's worth spending some time doing a little research about in order to find a shop that's a good fit for you and your car. As with most services, it pays in the long run to spend some time shopping around for a good, honest car repair shop.Time spent finding the best Boulder auto repair facility for you and your car is an investment of time and effort that will give you peace of mind and could potentially lengthen the life of your car. It's something that you should only have to do once or at least not very often because once you find a good auto shop, you will become a long-time, loyal customer for many years to comePerhaps one of the best indicators of a quality Boulder car shop is the word of mouth that gets around about it. In Boulder, word can spread quite easily via the student population at the University of Colorado, especially with all the social media avenues of communication that students use every day, including Twitter, Facebook and MySpace.So, in the context of social media at CU, a good repair shop can quickly have loyal customers who are willing to let others know about the best Boulder car repair service they have found in town because it just outshines all their previous experience with other shops in the past. Do some searches in Twitter or Facebook looking for students talking about their experience with local car shops.Another place to find Boulder locals talking about local repair shops is on some directory type of websites that allow readers to write reviews. When you do a search in Google for Boulder car repairs, some websites you will find in the search engines will have customer reviews. You need to be a little careful here and not swallow everything you read whole.Sometimes a review will smack of a competitor trying to bad mouth a decent repair shop. If most of the reviews are positive and plausible, one or two really negative reviews would not necessarily steer me completely away from a car repair shop, especially if the auto shop has been in business for several years.Having said that, if I find numerous negative comments about the same Boulder repair shop on several sites by different people, that will get my attention and I will probably not consider trying that shop.Another tip for selecting a good car repair shop in Boulder is to choose an auto shop where the technicians work on several different makes of cars-both foreign imports such as Volkwagen, Subaru, Toyota, Honda, Audi, Porsche as well as domestic cars such as Ford, Cadillac, GMC, etc. You will be able to tell by the Yellow Page ad or the shop's website. For example, the local shop called Bolder Auto has a website where they talk about what specific makes and models they like to work on.When a mechanic has a variety of experience working on different makes and models, it gives him a much greater understanding and insight into how cars work (or don't work), not just for repairing a Toyota but Subaru, Honda, Audi, VW, Porsche--any brand.It's always a good idea to ask the person you deal with at the local Boulder shop if the guys who will be working on your car have Automotive Service Excellence certifications which are also known as 'ASE certifications'. These ASE certifications are a good way to validate a mechanic's skills to work on any type of vehicle. These are national certifications and not specific to Boulder or Colorado only.Another tip for finding a good Boulder car repair service is to start looking before you actually need one. Then you won't have to settle for just trusting that the repair work will be done correctly because you have no choice.To start, find a local shop that's running a special for an oil change or some simple service you need and make an appointment. See what kind of experience you have and go from there.There are lots of Boulder car repair shops to choose from, so narrowing your choice before you actually take your car to the shop will require a little time applying the tips above to find the shop that best fits your need in the local Boulder community.
Car Repair Loans - Do They Exist?
Car repairs are expensive. While the initial cost of a car might not be that much, bringing that same car to the mechanic can easily empty your bank account. Hundreds of people lose money every day due to a car that doesn't work properly. If you rely upon your car to get to work, to pick up your children, and to simply get around town, you know how important your vehicle really is. But, what can you do if you just can't afford to pay for those pricey car repairs?Have you considered applying for a car repair loan? That's right - car repair loans do exist. These loans are reserved exclusively for those that cannot pay for car repairs up front. While traditional lenders might provide loans to those with stellar credit, these lenders hardly every approve any kind of loan for those with poor credit. If your credit report isn't something that you are proud of, you can take solace in knowing that there are private lenders out there that will approve a car repair loan for you - no matter what your credit report might look like.How does this type of loan work? While customary lenders will base your loan entirely upon your credit history, other private lenders will base a loan only upon your assets. This means that your bad credit report doesn't matter at all. All you need to have is some form of steady income, a car that's less than eight years old, car insurance, and a clear car title. Car repair loans through bad credit lenders are the easiest and most efficient way to fix your vehicle. Car owners with no credit, bad credit, and a history of bankruptcy can gain a specific car repair loan. This type of loan is also perfect for truck drivers.Car repairs might cost a lot, but repairing a large truck is another kind of expense altogether. If your rig needs major alterations, don't skip another day of work. There are lots of loads out there that you might be missing out on if your truck doesn't work properly. Still, finding the money to repair a large truck might seem like an impossible feat. If you are stuck in this situation, you should know that car repair loans can apply to you as well - regardless of your credit history.You'll also be happy to know that paying back this kind of loan is also easily attainable. Monthly payments will always be well within your budget, and you'll find those repayment terms easy to follow. Why should your credit report prevent you from getting where you need to go? It shouldn't. Instead, apply for your car repair loan online right now. Within moments, you should be approved for that loan that you so desperately need. Why put your life on hold due to car repairs? Instead of trying to scrape together the money for those large car or truck repairs, sign up for an Auto Title Loan... and get your life back in motion.
Your Car Repair Cost - Is it the Right Estimate?
Think you paid too much for your car repair? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that consumers lose tens of billions of dollars each year due to overcharged car repairs. This means that millions of Americans are overcharged an estimated total of $22 Billion for auto repairs each year. No wonder overpriced auto repairs make up the largest group of consumer complaints.You'll be shocked at what really goes on at your car repair shop! Dishonest auto mechanics and shops abound in most areas of the country and it's very easy for them to convince car owners that unnecessary repairs are needed because the average person doesn't know much about their cars.People often have no idea they've been ripped off. Some repair shops charge customers for parts that they never place in the car. Other car repair shops fix the car so poorly that the customer has to bring the car back three or four times. Worst, some doesn't even place a warranty on their repair.There are car repair shops too that pretend to provide a very reasonable quote when the car is dropped off, but when the owner comes to pick it up, the consumer finds that the shop has up the bill saying that the mechanic found additional problems with the vehicle. Some mechanics will even cause damage and say they've discovered another part that needed to be repaired.Multiple studies from the government and consumer advocate groups reveal that up to 98% of customers pay too much for their car repairs. That's because car repair estimates hide the true charges of your car repairs, not to mention, that car parts are billed higher than the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Note here that almost all repair shops as well as spare parts dealers do not follow the recommendations of your manufacturer, but embellish the procedures with their own additional services.The harsh reality is that you spend a huge amount of money on unnecessary car repairs when come to think of it, you really you don't have to.
How to Pay For Your Car Repair
Your insurance company will shoulder most of the bills for car repairs and you save a fair amount on your other coverage. Life usually comes to a standstill when you are running short of cash in between paydays as urgent payments can not be made. Some people use their home equity to borrow. Loans are taken to meet a sudden and unexpected expense. However, you can save on your repair bills and still keep your vehicle well maintained. Auto repairs are a necessary, but often high priced expense. Almost all automotive repair questions can now be answered online, right at your fingertips.Money is available for the emergent needs that occur in life and personal financing can be obtained for new appliances, automobile repairs and home improvements. Personal loans are a great option if you need money to consolidate debt, pay for automotive repair, repair the home, go on a vacation, or even go to school. The automotive insurance company usually sends a check for the funds directly to you to help you get the automotive repaired or to replace the vehicle. Of course, you then need to pay recovery charges to get your automobile home or to a garage and then get the automotive repaired. Auto expenses includes everything from car washes, insurance, automobile repairs, tires, interior detailing, and even air fresheners and oil jobs. With the help of this mortgage, borrower can easily meet various personal needs like paying, automotive repair bills, credit card dues, home repair and so on. On the job training not only improves your skills, it also gets you working in the automobile repair industry sooner.When handled correctly, receiving an online payday loan is an advantageous economical alternative to costly overdraft fees, bounced check charges, taxes or possibly losing your job if you do not have money on hand for a needed automobile repair. There may be a time where you are hit with an unexpected cash emergency, such as a bank overdraft, an unforeseen auto repair or unexpectedly high utility payment. You may get paid to take survey about automobile repair or insurance, baby products if you are a new parent, travel plans for business and pleasure, or any number of topics that someone is willing to pay for information. If managed correctly, a loan of this type would be a smart alternative to paying costly dishonor bank fees, late rent fees or possibly losing your job if you are unable to afford a much needed car repair. Actually there are many people who are afraid of that day when they will have to get their auto repaired.The hassles of insurance, car [http://www.ebooks-mall.org/car/] repairs, and treating possible injuries can alter your daily or weekly routine for quite a while. These days, there is nothing daunting for car repair shops as a weathered convertible top. Although SMART repair services are quite comprehensive, if you lurch forward in slow moving traffic and smash into cars in front causing considerable damage, SMART vehicle repair technicians may not be able to fix it. Make use of SMART vehicle repair services, which also include a auto diagnostics service to ensure the problem does not escalate. Techniques that SMART vehicle repair undertake include painless dent removal, seat and trim repair, plastic welding and bumper repair, air conditioning repair, and alloy wheel repair. In addition, many SMART vehicle repair jobs can be done on your premises, saving you the petrol used to travel there, as well as time and inconvenience.Auto Repair and Motoring Nowadays, when taking care of the environment has become a priority, it has been realized that enough small changes made by many people can make a difference. Visit your favorite repair shop mechanic and auto dealer The vehicle enhancement options available are vast. As long as you have quick payday loans, then you will be able to get what you need, pay those unexpected bills and have some money left for repairs or family emergencies. The reason repair is set up for negotiation is because your mechanic or service manager knows that he can give you a discount but he certainly is not going to offer it. When people are looking for products and services such as restaurants, repair shops and florists, they tend to spend their money in an area near where they live, work or play. If a repair shop does not offer any type of guarantee on their work, consider shopping around for another tire shop. Even though you may have worked on your own cars as a teenager or still consider yourself to be an amateur repair specialist I recommend that you leave the work to a qualified mechanic who has been trained to do the job properly.
Why SMART Car Repair is the Way to Go?
Smart car repairs are changing the way customers have vehicles serviced at auto body shops. The acronym S-M-A-R-T stands for Small, Medium Area Repair Technique.This revolutionary car repair technique is saving customers' money by repairing only damaged areas of a vehicle. There is no longer a need to repair an entire vehicle surface for a scratch on the bumper or a dent on the door panel. All vehicles experience the need for repairs somewhere down the line.Dents and scratches can damage more than the exterior of the vehicle. There can be considerable damage done to the monetary value of the vehicle as well. For this reason, it is highly advisable that car repairs be completed as soon as possible to prevent any further damage from occurring.Smart car repair services aide fleet operators, car hire services, car dealerships and consumers in obtaining inexpensive auto body work. This can be routine maintenance or large repairs caused by big dents or other exterior vehicle damage. Many utilize the services of a smart car repair shop for touch up work for cars, vans and motorcycles.A variety of car repairs can be completed utilizing this revolutionary technique. A few items on the list include:Scratches to door panels Scratches to front and back bumpers Scratches to wheel arches Dents to any portion of the vehicle exterior Smart car repairs are not limited to the cosmetic exterior of a vehicle. Interior blemishes can also be repaired. These include rips in the upholstery, small holes in plastic trim, windscreen chips and cigarette burns to seats, dashboard or other interior structures.Repairs are limited to the damaged areas of the vehicle only. This dramatically cuts down on the cost of auto body work as it creates less time consuming repair projects. Specially designed paints and chemical based paints can be matched virtually identically to existing paint. This eliminates the need to repaint the entire vehicle for a repair job in a tiny portion of the vehicle.This special paint dries in half the time of stock auto body shop paints. Repairs are done on site and all products needed are in stock. These two components alone significantly contribute to the dramatic cost saving methods of smart car repairs.Some of the costliest auto body repairs lie in damaged or broken bumpers and spoilers. Smart car repair utilizes plastic welding and finishing techniques on the original vehicle pieces. This process eliminates the need for auto body shops to send out for replacement parts. In return, customers are not stuck paying a bill that includes costs for the down time between ordering replacement parts and having them installed on the vehicle.Moving inside the vehicle, fabrics and upholstery can be repaired without needing to remove all of the interior fabrics, vinyl and leather. Cigarette burns, stains and spills brought on by everyday vehicle use can easily be repaired at little cost to the customer.Smart car repairs are changing the way auto body shops do business in the future.
Estimate Car Repair Costs
Having an accident is probably the worst thing that could happen to you and it's something that could appear anytime. Even though you drive carefully below the speed limits or even when your car is stopped someone who is not paying attention slams into your car. Your car could also be damaged by natural disasters and you can't predict these things.If you want to have less worries you could always choose a good auto insurance policy but usually insurance companies solve problems pretty slow, and you probably want your car fixed and running as fast as possible. But if you need a quick solution you have to know that car repairs can get expensive and you always have to search the best repairs for your money. You should always estimate car repair costs before choosing a company that would repair your car. There could appear several cost differences for repair prices in different areas of a country and you should always pick the best choice for you.If you have a scratched hood, small engine problems, smashed bumper or slightly damaged side skirts, these are problems that could be repaired easily and pretty cheap. But you have to know that minor repairs are pretty inexpensive, but when it comes to severe car damage then you surely have to be really careful when you estimate your car repair costs. There are some companies that overcharge you for your car repair and you surely don't want that to happen.A car repair estimate has six major headings: your information and your vehicle information, replacement parts needed for the repair, labor cost, miscellaneous charges, flat fees and a summary of charges. The labor cost is the number of hours spent to repair multiplied with the hourly charge of the car service. You should always check the car repair estimate to ensure that you won't be overcharged.In the end, if you're careful when you're choosing a repair company, you could get your car back faster and you could always get a good repair price.
What is Smart Car Repair & Motoring?
Nowadays, when taking care of the environment has become a priority, it has been realised that enough small changes made by many people can make a difference. Not just limited to recycling cans and saving electricity, this also extends to driving. If you are smart, car repair and motoring need not be such a burden on your surroundings.Here are a few changes you can make, some of which will benefit not only the environment, but your safety and hip pocket as well!Alter your lifestyle: It has been discovered that if 10% of the population used their Auto one day less a week, that every year 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide would be saved from going up into the atmosphere. So, try staying at home one day extra a week (working, not lazing around!). Alternatively, join a car pool.Use SMART car repair for damages: Whatever brand your car is, treat minor damages the (Small To Medium Repair Technique) way. Minor car repair can not only save you a fair amount of money, but can help the environment too, as the damaged parts - particularly plastic ones - do not have to be replaced.A lot of S M A R T car repair jobs also take a lot less time than at a garage. In addition, many minor repair jobs can be done on your premises, saving you the petrol used to travel there, as well as time and inconvenience.Techniques that SMART car repair undertake include paintless dent removal, seat and trim repair, plastic welding and bumper repair, air conditioning repair, and alloy wheel repair.Get a car repair technicians to check you out: illuminated warning signals on your dashboard need immediate attention as they could indicate serious problems indirectly leading to inefficient fuel consumption (in addition to the car being unsafe to drive!). Make use of car repair services, which also include a car diagnostics service to ensure the problem does not escalate.Choose a motor that facilitates your lifestyle: If you mainly use it as a run around, then a small car or electric one would be much better than a 4WD, which will use a lot more petrol and cost a lot more to run and maintain, though minor car repair can reduce a lot of those costs in the case of minor damage.For regular long-distance drivers, a diesel engine uses less fuel than a petrol engine, so would be a better choice , environmentally speaking.Slow down: Putting the "pedal to the metal" may be cool in films, but in reality, it's an excessive waste of petrol radically and unnecessarily increasing your fuel consumption. By reducing your speed from 135 kms/hr to 112 kms/hr, your fuel efficiency increases to 25%. By travelling between 80 and 96 kms/hr, your fuel consumption will be at its optimum.Alter your driving: Slamming on the brakes or accelerating suddenly also increases fuel consumption and increases your risk of an accident. Although car -repair services are quite comprehensive, if you lurch forward in slow-moving traffic and smash into the car in front causing considerable damage, SMART car repair technicians may not be able to fix it.Use mobile services: Where possible and practical, use mobile services that come to you, rather than you going to them, such as (Small To Medium Repair Technique) car repair services. You will save on petrol and reduce fuel emissions.Walk: Try walking (rather than driving) to your destination. It will alleviate any thoughts about fuel consumption, will be better for your health, and better for the environment!
A Car Repair Loan Can Be of Great Help When Your Car Breaks Down
Any machinery with moving parts like a car can develop faults at any time and a car repair loan can come in very handy if you don't have the requisite amount of money. Sometimes, the vehicle repair can cost up to a few thousand dollars, depending on the extent of the damage. Moreover, there might be a major breakdown of the vehicle or you might need money for insurance deductibles and in all such cases a car repair loan can really prove to be a savior. You can also use such car loans for other purposes such as for sprucing up the look of the the car which appears dented due to an accident which might not be covered by insurance.Car Repair Loan RatesThe current prime interest rate is normally applicable for loans for car repair except in the case of those who have a poor credit rating in which case it will be higher than the prime rate. It is always a good idea to do a little bit of research on the Internet and look for lenders who offer cheap car loan rate. Interest rate on any loan is the prime factor that affects the amount of the monthly payment, which in turn determines the ability of the borrower to repay the loan on time. As such, it is of vital importance that you try to search for a car repair loan with minimum interest rate.Importance Of Savings For A Rainy DayAlthough you might not need more than a few thousand dollars for repairing your car, the whole process of getting a car repair loan and paying it off on time is very cumbersome and prone to risks. A simple solution to avoid such situations is to build up your savings gradually by putting away a small amount of money every month towards your savings fund. This money can be used whenever you face any kind of emergency like the breakdown of your vehicle. You can always take a part car repair loan and add some of your savings to tackle the situation.When your car meets with an accident or if there is a sudden breakdown, you would have to either delve into your savings or get a car repair loan in order to get it repaired as soon as possible. However, the biggest problem that you would face is you will not have your car with you to take you to work or other places until it is repaired. In such a case, you might have to rent a car so that you can attend to your job responsibilities. As such, you would also have to make provision for car hire expenses. So, be careful not to cause the bump to your car.
Auto Repair Estimates and Car Repair Prices - The Real Information to Avoid Car Repair Scams
Worrying whether or not you were overcharged for your car repair is an awful feeling. There's tons of advice on how to avoid getting ripped-off, but few discuss the actual car repair prices. We really need to look at the charges on a car repair estimate or auto repair invoice to determine if we're paying too much.The focus needs to shift from giving outdated and ineffective advice to addressing the specific charges. Are they legitimate charges? Can they be justified by industry guidelines?Now car repair estimates can be confusing. So let's break it down to get a better idea if your auto repair shop is billing you appropriately.First, a glossary of terms is in order, as the auto industry has a language of its own...Aftermarket Parts: parts not made by or for the manufacturer.MSRP: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail PriceOEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer. Manufacturer approved parts designed specifically for your vehicle.TSBs: Technical Service Bulletins. Notes and instructions provided by the manufacturer for known and specific concerns (they are not recalls).Flat Fees: services such as alignments that don't get broken down into parts, tax, laborMiscellaneous Charges: these can include, but are not limited to shop supplies - rags, chemicals, hazardous waste disposal fees, waste oil ...etc.Labor Rate: a repair center's hourly charge to service your vehicleLabor Time: the amount of time or hours determined that it will take to fix your vehicleLabor Description: the step-by-step written details of repairs and/or servicesOk, let's look at the Anatomy of an Auto Repair Estimate:There are six basic components to a car repair estimate1) Customer/Vehicle Information2) Parts3) Labor4) Miscellaneous Charges5) Flat Fees6) Summary of ChargesCustomer and Vehicle Information
Using a generic "top down" style estimate, the top portion simply contains your personal information and your vehicle's specifics: year, make, model, mileage...etc, as well as your request or concern.We also want find the shop's labor rate. The labor rate is critical in determining if you paid too much. Most repair centers don't list the labor rate. We'll discuss why shortly.Auto Parts
Parts are listed usually with a brief description, as well as the quantity, and the price. There are three types of parts: OEM (parts made by or for a manufacturer). These are the parts installed by a dealer, although many local shops use OEM parts too.Aftermarket parts are non OEM parts, and there are various degrees of quality, depending on the brand and where they're made - China versus USA, for example.Then there are Used parts purchased from a salvage yard.To determine if you paid too much for parts, first find out what type of parts are being used. With OEM parts, you don't want to pay more than MSRP, although most people do without realizing it. Premium aftermarket parts are similarly priced across brands, although beware not to pay more than MSRP, which again, many folks do. Used parts prices are all over the place, so pick the price in the middle.Auto Repair LaborLabor is billed in tenths. So 1.0 equals 1 hour. 1.5 equals an hour and a half.
Labor rates range from $60 to $100 per hour at local repair shops and $80 to $140 per hour at the dealer level. Labor times are based off established industry guidelines, which are frequently abused.If you don't see the shop's labor rate posted on the car repair invoice, ask your service center for the rate. Repair shops can manipulate the labor rate (among other things) with a labor matrix. Matrix pricing is a complicated and ethically questionable practice discussed at length in RepairTrust literature. What you need to know is that you can pay as high as $150 per hour rather than the posted labor rate of $105 per hour.Thus, you'll want to multiply the number of hours billed (which is also often not posted) by the shop's labor rate to determine if you've been charged accordingly.Most labor descriptions are poorly written and difficult to understand. So ask questions.Here's a "clear" labor description for a 30,000 mile service on a Toyota Camry.Performed 30,000 mile service per customer request, and in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Changed oil and filter, installed new air filter, cabin filter and performed all necessary tests, checks, and procedures, including road test (miles 30,123 - 30,125). Performed lubrication services and confirmed proper vehicle operation. Set tire pressures, and checked fluids, belts and hoses. Note: vehicle is pulling slightly left. Needs alignment Miscellaneous ChargesThe bulk of your car repair invoice will be parts and labor, but we can't forget about Miscellaneous Charges. These charges can include, but are not limited to, shop supplies - rags, chemicals, hazardous waste, disposal fees, waste oil ...etc. The latter of these may be billed out separately in a summary at the bottom of your repair invoice.Very few of these "extras" are actually used during regular repairs. Miscellaneous charges are calculated off the amount of labor hours billed, not the amount of miscellaneous items used.Flat FeesFlat fees can be another very tricky area. Flat fees are services, such as an alignment, which don't get broken down into parts, tax and labor. This makes it difficult to determine the real and fair price. On the plus side, most flat fees are competitively priced.Be warned however, another term for Flat Fee is called Menu Selling. In other words, you might see Tune Up: $99.99 or Transmission Flush: $89.99. Follow your manufacturer's recommendations only, not a dealer's or repair shop's menu.For an interesting read on this topic, click
car maintenance costsSummary of ChargesThe last part of an auto repair estimate is the summary of charges. It's usually found in the bottom right hand corner of the invoice. Check it against the charges above to ensure that it all adds up mathematically, as well as logically.This basic estimate outline may differ from your particular invoice, which may have other categories such as "Sublet" or "HazMat."A sublet charge is added when your auto repair shop uses another vender to fix or repair your car, such as a glass company that replaces your windshield.A HazMat charge may include waste oil or other disposal fees. Just make sure that the charges are warranted, as again, they too are often calculated off the labor time rather than actual need.In sum, understanding the "actual" charges, asking the right questions, and breaking down your auto repair costs is the best way to avoid paying excessive car repair prices.
Using a generic "top down" style estimate, the top portion simply contains your personal information and your vehicle's specifics: year, make, model, mileage...etc, as well as your request or concern.We also want find the shop's labor rate. The labor rate is critical in determining if you paid too much. Most repair centers don't list the labor rate. We'll discuss why shortly.Auto Parts
Parts are listed usually with a brief description, as well as the quantity, and the price. There are three types of parts: OEM (parts made by or for a manufacturer). These are the parts installed by a dealer, although many local shops use OEM parts too.Aftermarket parts are non OEM parts, and there are various degrees of quality, depending on the brand and where they're made - China versus USA, for example.Then there are Used parts purchased from a salvage yard.To determine if you paid too much for parts, first find out what type of parts are being used. With OEM parts, you don't want to pay more than MSRP, although most people do without realizing it. Premium aftermarket parts are similarly priced across brands, although beware not to pay more than MSRP, which again, many folks do. Used parts prices are all over the place, so pick the price in the middle.Auto Repair LaborLabor is billed in tenths. So 1.0 equals 1 hour. 1.5 equals an hour and a half.
Labor rates range from $60 to $100 per hour at local repair shops and $80 to $140 per hour at the dealer level. Labor times are based off established industry guidelines, which are frequently abused.If you don't see the shop's labor rate posted on the car repair invoice, ask your service center for the rate. Repair shops can manipulate the labor rate (among other things) with a labor matrix. Matrix pricing is a complicated and ethically questionable practice discussed at length in RepairTrust literature. What you need to know is that you can pay as high as $150 per hour rather than the posted labor rate of $105 per hour.Thus, you'll want to multiply the number of hours billed (which is also often not posted) by the shop's labor rate to determine if you've been charged accordingly.Most labor descriptions are poorly written and difficult to understand. So ask questions.Here's a "clear" labor description for a 30,000 mile service on a Toyota Camry.Performed 30,000 mile service per customer request, and in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Changed oil and filter, installed new air filter, cabin filter and performed all necessary tests, checks, and procedures, including road test (miles 30,123 - 30,125). Performed lubrication services and confirmed proper vehicle operation. Set tire pressures, and checked fluids, belts and hoses. Note: vehicle is pulling slightly left. Needs alignment Miscellaneous ChargesThe bulk of your car repair invoice will be parts and labor, but we can't forget about Miscellaneous Charges. These charges can include, but are not limited to, shop supplies - rags, chemicals, hazardous waste, disposal fees, waste oil ...etc. The latter of these may be billed out separately in a summary at the bottom of your repair invoice.Very few of these "extras" are actually used during regular repairs. Miscellaneous charges are calculated off the amount of labor hours billed, not the amount of miscellaneous items used.Flat FeesFlat fees can be another very tricky area. Flat fees are services, such as an alignment, which don't get broken down into parts, tax and labor. This makes it difficult to determine the real and fair price. On the plus side, most flat fees are competitively priced.Be warned however, another term for Flat Fee is called Menu Selling. In other words, you might see Tune Up: $99.99 or Transmission Flush: $89.99. Follow your manufacturer's recommendations only, not a dealer's or repair shop's menu.For an interesting read on this topic, click
car maintenance costsSummary of ChargesThe last part of an auto repair estimate is the summary of charges. It's usually found in the bottom right hand corner of the invoice. Check it against the charges above to ensure that it all adds up mathematically, as well as logically.This basic estimate outline may differ from your particular invoice, which may have other categories such as "Sublet" or "HazMat."A sublet charge is added when your auto repair shop uses another vender to fix or repair your car, such as a glass company that replaces your windshield.A HazMat charge may include waste oil or other disposal fees. Just make sure that the charges are warranted, as again, they too are often calculated off the labor time rather than actual need.In sum, understanding the "actual" charges, asking the right questions, and breaking down your auto repair costs is the best way to avoid paying excessive car repair prices.
Ask A Mechanic - Wading Through the Mess of Car Repair Prices and Auto Repair Estimates
If you were handed an estimate to replace a water pump on your car, would you know if the price was fair? Could you trust the price? How about for a tie rod end, mass air flow sensor, or an evaporative emissions sensor?Most of us don't know what these are, never mind the price. Yet it is components such as these that are commonly used to over charge you, the car repair customer.We no longer live in an age of trust, so how do we ensure that our auto repair costs are legitimate.How many times have you suspected that you paid too much, but couldn't prove it? How many times did the price seem exorbitant for even simple repairs?To illustrate just how "At Risk" the everyday auto repair customer is to excessive car repair prices, here's a recent real life example from a "reputable...?" dealer.A client brought her Audi to an authorized Audi dealership for a standard timing belt maintenance service.The price for this service averages $1575 at the dealership level, (including pulleys, water pump...etc) and about $1275 at the independent repair shop level.Yet the woman left the dealer with a bill for $2025.68.What happened?According to the repair order, there were no abnormal circumstances, no problems noted by the technician such as rust or any other extenuating circumstances that would have perhaps increased the labor, or added additional parts.In short, it was a straight forward service, but the bill was $450.68 higher than it should have been. There is simply no legitimate reason to have "that much" discrepancy.How'd they get away with it?The answer is very simple, and it's a point that I don't want anyone to miss:They get away with it because they can!Think about it. The average person doesn't know how much auto parts cost. And who knows how much labor time a repair should take? To what sources does one turn to find out this information? Who even has the time to investigate!Upon examination of this woman's repair order, it was found that she was charged a full 4 hours "more" than the standard labor time. At $100 per hour, this added an additional $400. The remaining $50.68 came from the parts, which were billed higher than MSRP.She was quoted $2,025 for a repair that tops out at $1575. The woman didn't know. She just paid the bill and left.How many times do folks just pay the bill and leave? Pretty much that's all one can do given that there is no accessible information for the car repair customer to adequately question a repair bill. Furthermore, very few even know what questions to ask!The auto repair industry has been over-charging for decades--sometimes subtly, sometimes boldly, definitely frequently. The evidence for this is overwhelming; yet, there are no easy solutions available for the car repair customer.Government agencies can't help. The Better Business Bureau can't do anything. Even supposed "car repair experts or advocates" lack the understanding of the breadth and insidiousness of the car repair business at all its levels.A dealership operates differently than an independent repair shop, and a franchise, like Midas, is totally unique. Who really knows what goes on in the underground of such a diverse and complex industry?The Solution?First and foremost, car repair customers need access to information on car repair prices. Without this, they've got nothing tangible in which to determine fair charges. They also need to be able to navigate the maze of parts and labor charges for car repairs and maintenance.Like everything else, information is the key to ensure fair treatment. Without it, the car repair customer will continue to "swim with the sharks" without any protection.
Car Repair Insurance Cost - Facts and Myths Unrevealed
Whenever you pay for a new car, either brand new or later model, you do not need extra policy such as car repair insurance packages since it's typical to have manufacturer's warranty. That warranty mostly lasts for about 3 to 5 years. But how do you think that you will be affected if you are driving older car? Or perhaps a car with no remaining warranty in it? What do you plan to do about it? A lot of car owners do not realize the importance of this extra insurance package and auto repair insurance cost becomes secondary when you talk about the benefits it provides. From the moment that your car warranty expires, auto insurance should protect you from expensive car repair costs.Auto Breakdown Insurance Cost - How to determine?Most car owners do not like the idea of extra auto breakdown Insurance Cost when buying a car. But you have to know that the standard policy on auto insurance you use in legally acquiring a vehicle to drive does not cover repairs. There are times that comprehensive coverage and collision is included in the policy, but still it does not cover needed repairs on worn or failing parts. Although repairs are covered by a warranty, the problem will begin when it expires. This is when auto repair insurance becomes advantageous to car owners: what is not in general covered by your standard car insurance policy will be covered by auto repair insurance.But wait. What is really the cost of auto repair insurance? If you would like to get a clear answer, read the succeeding paragraphs.Getting a Car Repair Insurance QuoteBear in mind that cost varies from one insurer to another. This is the reason why it is very important for you to get a car insurance quote. By doing this, you will be able to know how much car insurers charge their car repair insurance. Another importance of getting a car insurance repair quote is that you will be able to compare the insurance costs of different companies, so you can save a high amount of money.However, requesting for an insurance quote would not just be as easy as 123 because car repair insurance companies rely on some information that would serve as the basis in order for you to be provided with the right insurance quote designed for you. That basically includes:- The model and make of your vehicle.- Your driving history and age.Among all these pieces of information, the number one factor that greatly influences the auto breakdown insurance cost is your age. The younger you are, the more expensive your payment for the insurance would be. Your driving record will also affect the amount you have to pay for the auto breakdown insurance because the more accidents you got involved with, the higher the amount you have to pay. Of course, if you are a good driver, you will be able to get more rewards and you just have to pay a minimal amount for the policy.Most of the time, you will see that the offered rates change dramatically from one insurer to another, and you might wonder why. Well, this is because of the fact that every car repair insurance provider has their own qualifications and requirements. So, as long as you obtain a quote for car repair insurance, you will not be exposed to the risk of making the wrong decision in availing the insurance service of the wrong insurer.Now that you already know how to get a quote, you should discover the truth about car repair insurance estimates.The Truth About Auto Breakdown Insurance EstimatesAuto breakdown insurance estimates need to be obtained if you have been involved in an accident because you can use it to get your insurance money. However, in order to make this possible, you have to follow what is indicated in the car insurance policy.If the vehicular accident wasn't your fault, you can submit car breakdown insurance estimates for damages to the company that handles your insurance or to the company that handles the insurance of the other party at fault. Now, if you choose the first option, you will be able to incur a deductible.
Car Insurance Best Rates
Most consumers do not bother reading the terms in their insurance policy - they simply call around for lowest insurance quotes and purchase the lowest bid. In the long run, this isn't always the best approach, and won't always save the most money. However, let me assure you, car insurance best rates are achievable. Saving money on car insurance requires a combination of techniques that improve your insurability, decrease the rate of insurance for your vehicles, and provide you with a unique advantage when it comes to purchasing car insurance.This article will outline seven techniques that will ensure that you receive the lowest possible car insurance rates.#1 - Choosing the Best Insurer
Cost is certainly one factor when considering car insurance, but your insurer selection should be weighted more heavily on reliability. You could easily call a number of insurance companies, ask for quotes, and simply select the lowest bidder. However, even if the lowest cost insurer saves you hundreds of dollars a year in premium payments, that savings does you no good if you find yourself in an accident, needing car repairs or medical attention, with an unreliable and unresponsive insurance company. A good company is crucial. It's not just about car insurance best rates.#2 - Customize Your Policy
Before you begin calling around, it's important that you determine the level of insurance coverage you need. Not everyone's insurance needs are the same. Some families own two or three very expensive vehicles, while other families own only older used cars. Some people are members of AAA, while others are not. The specific terms of a policy should be determined by your life situation and the value of the items being insured.#3 - How to Become Highly Insurable
Whether you've already purchased car insurance, or you are getting ready to start looking, one of the best things you can do to obtain the lowest possible rates is to improve those things that car insurance companies look at when they calculate your insurance premium. There are several things you can do in the short term to improve your insurability standing, and there are also things you can do over the long term to improve it as well. This section will describe four major elements of this technique to save money on your car insurance.#4 - Reduce Your Car's Insurance Rate
Another extremely effective technique to obtain the lowest possible insurance rate is to improve those things about your car which car insurance companies value the most when they calculate your insurance premium. There are several things that you can do before buying a car that will dramatically decrease your insurance premium. If you've already bought a car, however, and are looking for ways to decrease your existing insurance costs, there are still methods you can use that will substantially cut your premium costs.#5 - Gaming the System
In addition to all of the techniques already listed in this article, there are also additional ways that you can use the insurance industries rating rules and premium calculation system in ways that will reduce your costs. Again, use the industry's rules to get car insurance best rates.#6 - Constantly Update Your Policy
One of the most important things that you can do to keep your insurance premium at a minimum is to always remember to update your insurance provider of any changes in your life that can reduce your insurance costs. Forgetting to do this can be very costly.#7 - Deciding on Liability Only
There comes a point in the life of a car when the decision needs to be made whether or not it is worthwhile to maintain collision and comprehensive insurance coverage.Getting Rock Bottom Insurance Rates
If you carefully follow each of the sections outlined in this guide, you are guaranteed to receive the lowest possible insurance rates for anyone within your calculated risk bracket. No one should ever overpay for car insurance - especially given the fact that there are so many insurers in the industry competing for your business.Most people overpay for car insurance out of sheer laziness. However the consumer that understands how car insurance works, and is clever enough to take advantage of all of its loopholes, will save significantly on their premium in the long run.Before you step foot into another insurance office, or visit another insurance website, make sure to print this guide and follow it carefully in order to ensure that you get the best insurance deal possible. Remember, car insurance best rates are achievable.
Cost is certainly one factor when considering car insurance, but your insurer selection should be weighted more heavily on reliability. You could easily call a number of insurance companies, ask for quotes, and simply select the lowest bidder. However, even if the lowest cost insurer saves you hundreds of dollars a year in premium payments, that savings does you no good if you find yourself in an accident, needing car repairs or medical attention, with an unreliable and unresponsive insurance company. A good company is crucial. It's not just about car insurance best rates.#2 - Customize Your Policy
Before you begin calling around, it's important that you determine the level of insurance coverage you need. Not everyone's insurance needs are the same. Some families own two or three very expensive vehicles, while other families own only older used cars. Some people are members of AAA, while others are not. The specific terms of a policy should be determined by your life situation and the value of the items being insured.#3 - How to Become Highly Insurable
Whether you've already purchased car insurance, or you are getting ready to start looking, one of the best things you can do to obtain the lowest possible rates is to improve those things that car insurance companies look at when they calculate your insurance premium. There are several things you can do in the short term to improve your insurability standing, and there are also things you can do over the long term to improve it as well. This section will describe four major elements of this technique to save money on your car insurance.#4 - Reduce Your Car's Insurance Rate
Another extremely effective technique to obtain the lowest possible insurance rate is to improve those things about your car which car insurance companies value the most when they calculate your insurance premium. There are several things that you can do before buying a car that will dramatically decrease your insurance premium. If you've already bought a car, however, and are looking for ways to decrease your existing insurance costs, there are still methods you can use that will substantially cut your premium costs.#5 - Gaming the System
In addition to all of the techniques already listed in this article, there are also additional ways that you can use the insurance industries rating rules and premium calculation system in ways that will reduce your costs. Again, use the industry's rules to get car insurance best rates.#6 - Constantly Update Your Policy
One of the most important things that you can do to keep your insurance premium at a minimum is to always remember to update your insurance provider of any changes in your life that can reduce your insurance costs. Forgetting to do this can be very costly.#7 - Deciding on Liability Only
There comes a point in the life of a car when the decision needs to be made whether or not it is worthwhile to maintain collision and comprehensive insurance coverage.Getting Rock Bottom Insurance Rates
If you carefully follow each of the sections outlined in this guide, you are guaranteed to receive the lowest possible insurance rates for anyone within your calculated risk bracket. No one should ever overpay for car insurance - especially given the fact that there are so many insurers in the industry competing for your business.Most people overpay for car insurance out of sheer laziness. However the consumer that understands how car insurance works, and is clever enough to take advantage of all of its loopholes, will save significantly on their premium in the long run.Before you step foot into another insurance office, or visit another insurance website, make sure to print this guide and follow it carefully in order to ensure that you get the best insurance deal possible. Remember, car insurance best rates are achievable.
In This Economy, These 2 Car Insurance Coverages Are More Important Than Ever
From more than 25 years of experience as a car accident lawyer, I have seen that, no matter what other car insurance coverages you choose, there are two that you absolutely must have. And they are even more critical now, in today's economy.I know, car insurance coverages can be confusing. And, probably because you don't really understand it, shopping for car insurance is one of your least favorite things. Well, I agree that this topic is boring and confusing and absolutely no fun to think about. But ignore it you shouldn't.Let me see if I can help.First, a quick refresher - Car Insurance 101. These are the main insurance coverages, and what they do for you...Liability- Pays what you owe because of injuries and property damage you cause.Uninsured Motorists (UM)- Pays you if you are injured by a driver who does not have insurance.Underinsured Motorists (UIM)- Pays you if you are injured by a driver with too little insurance to fully compensate you for your injuries.Personal Injury Protection (PIP)- This is the primary coverage in no-fault insurance states (there are 12 of those). It pays you your medical bills and loss of income after a car accident. In some states with fault insurance systems, it is offered as an optional coverage.Medical Payments (Med-Pay)- Pays you for medical bills incurred as a result of a car accident.Collision- Pays to repair your car if it is damaged in a collision with another car or an object.Comprehensive- Pays to repair your car if it is damaged as a result of specified causes other than a collision, such as theft, vandalism or accidental glass breakage.Towing- Pays you for the cost of towing your vehicle when it is disabled.Rental Reimbursement- Pays the cost of a temporary rental car while your car is being repaired.So, which 2 are absolutely essential?Liability InsuranceThe first is liability. If you cause a car accident, this coverage pays others that you harm. If you don't have this insurance, you have to pay for the harm that you cause out of your own pocket.This means that if you are daydreaming for a moment or briefly look at the dials on your car radio and don't see that the car in front of you has stopped...and you ram into it...you are responsible for paying for the damage that you caused. You have to pay to repair that car and you have to compensate anyone who is injured.That's why you have liability insurance, so you won't have to pay what could be a very large amount yourself. Up to your policy limit, your insurance company will pay for damage that you do and harms that you cause.This is a no-brainer, right? After all, isn't liability insurance required in every state?Almost. Forty-eight states require you to have liability insurance. (To find out which states do not require liability insurance, read to the end of this article.)So, don't be tempted, as many have been during the current economic problems, to cancel your car insurance and take your chances. It's not a good gamble.Not only should you keep your liability insurance coverage, but you should make sure that you have enough coverage.You want to make sure that any harm you cause is fully paid for, don't you? If you seriously harm another human being, don't you want to make sure that they are fully compensated? Isn't that simply the right thing to do? And, of course, this coverage protects you against having to pay a potentially large court judgment yourself.How much liability insurance you need varies depending on your circumstances. The state minimums are entirely too low. If you can afford it, I think you should have at least $100,000 of personal injury liability coverage and $50,000 of property damage liability insurance (this pays for cars and other property that you damage).Discuss the "how much" issue with an insurance agent you trust.Uninsured Motorists and Underinsured Motorists CoverageIf you are in a car accident that someone else causes, uninsured motorists coverage and its cousin, underinsured motorists coverage, could save you from a disaster.Remember, uninsured motorists is the coverage that pays you if someone without insurance harms you or your family, or damages your property. This includes hit-and-run drivers.Are you wondering why uninsured motorists coverage is so important if all drivers (except in those two as-of-yet unidentified states) are required to have liability insurance?It's because, even though the law of almost every state requires liability insurance, many drivers simply don't have it.According to an Insurance Research Council study, as of 2004, nearly 15% of all drivers on the road were uninsured. And in some states, including Mississippi, California and Arizona, roughly a quarter of drivers weren't insured!To make matters worse, it is estimated that several hundred thousand drivers have dropped their insurance in the past year as the jobless rate has climbed and the economy has tanked.In about half the states, uninsured motorists coverage is required. Even if it isn't, my advice is...get it!And get as much uninsured motorists coverage as you can afford. In many states you will be limited by the amount of liability insurance you have. That is, you will be able to purchase as much uninsured motorists coverage as you have liability coverage, but no more.In some states, uninsured motorists coverage also serves as underinsured motorists coverage. In other states, they are separate coverages. Underinsured motorists covers you if you or your family are harmed by someone who has insurance but doesn't have enough of it.For example, if someone causes an accident and your losses total $100,000 yet the driver who caused the accident only has $15,000 of liability insurance...and no assets of his own to pay you...you are out of luck unless you have underinsured motorists coverage. If you have this coverage, it pays what the other driver can't...up to your policy limit, of course.According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, adding uninsured and underinsured motorists coverages to your policy will raise your insurance premium by about 7 - 9%. Based on my experience, this is a small price to pay for this coverage which can save the day if you are clobbered by a financially irresponsible driver.In today's economy, with more and more drivers canceling or stripping their car insurance coverages to the minimum, it is critically important that you have uninsured and underinsured motorists coverage on your car insurance policy.I hope this makes car insurance coverages a little more clear.Oh...the answer to the question is that only New Hampshire and Wisconsin do not require car insurance. Instead, they require drivers to show proof of their financial ability to pay damages for liability.
Guide to Evaluating Budget Car Insurance
These days, Internet shopping makes it easy to find budget car insurance coverage for your needs. However, it helps to know what you're getting in car insurance even when you want to save a buck, which of course you do.First of all, if you drive an older car and you don't have any payments on that car, you don't need two types of insurance: collision insurance or comprehensive insurance. You do need liability insurance no matter what type of car you drive. Laws vary from state to state as to the amount of liability insurance you need to have, but if you're on the road, you do absolutely have to have liability insurance. It should be noted that liability insurance does not cover you or your vehicle in any way. It simply guarantees that you are responsible for the other party's car and/or injuries up to a certain amount, if you are deemed at fault in an accident. Budget car insurance can also include simple liability insurance, as well as two other types of insurance, comprehensive and collision insurance.If your car is newer and/or you still owe payments on that car, then you'll want to have both comprehensive and collision insurance. This is because the premiums you pay also include the insurance company's replacement of your car in the event you're in an accident.For the best kind of budget car insurance, of course you want to pay as little as possible for the coverage you need, whether it's just simple liability insurance or it includes comprehensive and/or collision insurance as well. So first, determine whether your car is old enough and not worth the cost of having it covered with comprehensive and collision insurance. Collision insurance covers your car's damage in the event you're in an accident, whether or not it's determined you're at fault. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car if it happens when you're not driving, such as if your car is vandalized when it's parked or if a tree limb falls on it, for example.Collision and comprehensive coverage become unnecessary when your car is old enough that its replacement value is not worth your insurance premiums. In that case, you're better off putting the extra money you save on premiums in a savings account or some other place where it's going to earn interest and then buy a new car with that money if your old one is in an accident and is no longer operable.However, if your car is new enough that collision and comprehensive coverage make the extra premiums worth your while because replacement cost is more than the premiums you pay, then you should indeed carry comprehensive and collision insurance coverage. You can get budget car insurance for these types of coverage, too.Once you have determined what type of insurance you need, go search for budget car insurance. Depending on your driving record, your age, any accidents you've had, any previous insurance claims you had, and so on, you'll qualify within a certain risk category. Within that risk category, though, quotes can vary wildly depending on the company and the underwriters' assessment of you. Therefore, it's best to shop around for the lowest cost insurance with the greatest coverage depending on what you need.Remember that budget car insurance can be had no matter the type of coverage you need or your driving record; it's true that if your driving record is less than perfect or if you're within a certain age and/or gender category, you may pay more than someone else will regardless. The area you live in also helps determine the amount of insurance you pay. Nonetheless, you should be able to get the best rate possible with budget car insurance by doing some homework and assessing competing quotes. Choose the lowest quote with the highest coverage in it. Make sure you also research insurance companies to make sure they have good records and handle claims promptly and fairly. If you do this, though, it should be easy to find budget car insurance for your needs.One last word of advice is that you should shop around both online and offline. There is budget car insurance available from some very reliable and reputable companies online, but just because you got it online does not guarantee that it will be the best of cheapest. Shop around, both online and offline, make sure you are comparing apples to apples for coverage and deductibles, and then you can determine which is most cost effective for you.
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