Blog
Used Car Scams with a Coronavirus Twist
For every crisis you can find a scammer, so it is not surprising that the used car sales market has become the target of unscrupulous people taking advantage the COVID-19 pandemic situation. Since used car prices are rising due to the limited supply of cars caused by the pandemic, many used car shoppers are scouring online ads in Craigslist, eBay, PayPal and other apps for deals and some consumers are getting stung.
The latest used car scam reported by wcpo.com Cincinnati is the well-known eBay Motors scam which uses COVID-19 as an excuse for no test drive. The scammer places a false used car for sale ad online for a very low price. When the car shopper contacts the seller, they are told due to the pandemic, the seller would like to handle the sale virtually. The seller gives an excuse that the transaction needs to be done right away. The seller tells the buyer to go online to the eBay Motors page, a fake site that supposedly will handle payment, shipping and includes a buyer's protection plan. The fake eBay page instructs the unwitting used car shopper to buy eBay gift cards at the store and read the card numbers to the seller so payment can be made. Once this is done, the seller hangs up and is never seen or heard from again.
Another trick reported by the Fort Worth Star Telegram is scammers making cold calls, posing as car dealer representatives who can repair cars and advertise used cars for sale with fake photos of cars from their bogus dealership. Using the pandemic as an excuse for no test drive, they sell the car to the shopper and promise delivery. To convince the shopper they are acting in good faith, these scammers can demand a cash deposit and the balance due on delivery. In some cases, leaving with a hefty cash deposit is enough and can amount to a lot of cash if they are able to swindle several buyers in a day or a week.
Then there is the bogus vehicle history report scam which can happen when a person decides to sell his used car online to a private party instead of trading it for purchase of a newer car at a dealership. The scammer will call inquiring about the car. Using the pandemic as an excuse not to come and personally check out the vehicle, the scammer gives the seller the URL of a vehicle history report website they say they trust and asks the seller to send the car's vehicle history report from that website. The website then charges the seller $25 for the report, which ultimately ends up in the pocket of the scammer.
Used car shoppers are urged to heighten their awareness of these and other scams, especially during the pandemic. Always purchase a vehicle from a licensed dealer.
When in the market for a used car, stop by Carousel Preowned. CarouselPreowned serving Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, North Liberty, Marion, and Coralville, IA, is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. We do our best to ensure your complete satisfaction every time you step into our car dealership. This is why we offer the widest selection of used and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs and provide true ease of purchase in Iowa.
SUVs Not Far Behind Trucks in Popularity in Iowa and the Nation
Date: September 18, 2020
Like trucks, SUVS are versatile and can be used for many purposes. They also come in different sizes to fit a family's lifestyle, from compact crossover, crossover, mid-size and full-size. In Iowa, the Chevrolet Equinox is among the top selling vehicles, according to a 2019 Edmund's study of retail vehicle registrations. In fact, while trucks are the top vehicle favorite nationwide, SUVs are not far behind.
Why Trucks are Top Selling Vehicles in Iowa
Date: September 11, 2020
Trucks are the top selling vehicle in the nation and in states like Iowa. Just drive through towns and parking lots in Iowa and you'll see a sea of trucks and SUVs. A Des Moines Register article has cited data from the Iowa Automobile Dealers which found the top registered vehicles in the state were Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. In the Johnson and Linn counties 62 percent and 72.8 percent, respectively, of new vehicle registrations that year were trucks, a classification that includes pickups, SUVs and vans. Here are some benefits of owning a pickup in Iowa.
In COVID-19 Environment, Is Trading In Your Vehicle Safer than Selling It Privately?
Date: August 28, 2020
You can get a better price if you sell your car privately, but there is also the convenience, time saved and ease of trading in your vehicle at the dealership. Another consideration these days is the current pandemic environment. Depending on the gravity of COVID-19 in your area, you could put your health at risk by meeting one stranger after another and having each person check your vehicle before they decide to buy. At a dealership typically you would deal with one person who will handle the entire transaction, including the paperwork of transferring ownership of your car.
Iowa Car Dealer Fees - What's Mandatory and What's Not?
Date: August 14, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
When extra fees are tacked on to the price of new and used cars at the end of the car buying process and the out-the-door price turns out to be much higher than what was originally agreed upon that car buyers often feel misled.
There are fees that are completely legitimate and required by law. Other fees can be negotiated, while others are optional and unnecessary. Learning about the different fees associated with buying a car is an important part of the car buying process, whether you are buying a used vehicle or new.
Best Pet-Friendly Vehicles for Road Trips
Date: August 7, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
The month of August is usually the busiest month for travel, as many families want to sneak in a mini-vacation or road trip before school starts and the cold weather sets in. Many families are likely to travel with their pets, so what vehicles are the most pet-friendly?
You'll want a vehicle that will keep you, your family and your dog safe and comfortable which, in turn, will help make traveling a stress-free experience. Read more to find out what to look for in a pet-friendly vehicle.
Peace of Mind Car Shoppers Get from a Dealership is Priceless
Date: July 31, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
There has always been a debate on whether it is best to buy a used vehicle from a local dealership versus an online used car website or private seller. There are pros and cons on both sides, but for many car shoppers, purchasing a used vehicle from their local dealership gives them something money cannot buy, and that is peace of mind.
Dealerships offer the convenience of one-stop shopping. They have a wide array of late model used vehicles to choose from. You can also examine and test drive any of the vehicles, which you cannot do with online vehicles.
Traveling Safe During COVID-19
Date: July 17, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
Despite COVID-19, Americans are making plans to travel. Until a vaccine is developed and proven effective, health experts say we need to assume coronavirus will still be around, so travelers must exercise measures to mitigate risk. Here are a few ways to prepare for your trip so you remain healthy and safe.
Used Car Sales Surge Despite Coronavirus Pandemic
Date: July 10, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
The coronavirus pandemic is still haunting the U.S., but despite this the used car market appears to be making a remarkable comeback. Sales of used cars took a 38 percent dive in April 2020 from the same time last year, but in May 2020, used car sales surged to over 105 percent from the previous month.
Read more about the 10 top vehicles with the highest year-over-year and month-over-month sales growth.
Men or Women - Who are Better Drivers?
Date: June 26, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
The battle of the sexes continues behind the wheel as to who is the better driver. Like many studies in the U.S., a British study published last month has concluded male drivers are more dangerous to other road users than female drivers. The study also found men are more likely to drive more dangerous types of vehicles.
Do's and Don'ts to Get the Most Value for Your Trade-in
Date: June 12, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
If you plan to replace your used car with a newer car, you may get a better deal selling it privately, but trading-in your car to a dealership can be a more convenient, safer, and less complicated option. With more demand for used cars, car dealerships are looking for good used cars. If you choose this option, how can you get the most value for your trade in?
Why During COVID-19 May Be a Good Time to Buy a Used Car
Date: May 22, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
If you are in the market for a used car, now may be the best time to make a purchase. News is car sales may see the slowest slowdown due to COVID-19. Some auto industry watchers say even though demand for cars will rise as states ease shelter-in-place restrictions, used car prices are going to remain low; others say used car prices are low now, but they will bottom out in the summer.
Protect Yourself at the Gas Pump
Date: May 7, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
Who would have thought that pumping gas would be dangerous to your health? Before the coronavirus outbreak not much attention was given to a virus or bacteria lurking on gas handles and keypads. While there have not been any coronavirus cases directly linked to gas pumps, they are clearly a source of infection, so it makes sense to always take protective measures when pumping gas. Read more to learn protective measures when pumping gas.
Is It Ok To Drive Your Car Less?
Date: April 24, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
The coronavirus has raised thoughts about using cars less often. Even as most Iowa businesses are now open, this topic is still relevant. There are those who think driving their car less, especially a used car with high miles, will help prolong its life. That depends on how long the vehicle sits. There's that saying, "If you don't use it, you'll lose it."
Coronavirus FAQs for Used Car Buyers and Owners
Date: April 17, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
There are many things inquiring car buyers and owners want to know about how the coronavirus will affect them. Here are some of those questions answered:
Is now a good time to buy a car?
Unless you are not feeling well or your immune system is compromised, if you really need a car or were on the verge of buying a car when the coronavirus hit, there's no reason you should not buy a car. However, if you have been are laid off or expect to be laid off due to the resulting economic downturn, it is best to wait, as you don't want to be saddled with a debt you can't repay.
Shopping for a Used Car in the Age of Coronavirus
Date: April 3, 2020 | Category: Car Shopping
The coronavirus outbreak has rocked the country and how to react to it has many people confused. Right now, each state has issued its own order and social distancing guidelines. So how should consumers shop for a used car?
It is important to see the car, examine the exterior and interior of the car personally, and test drive the car before making a purchase, so check if nearby dealerships are open. In some areas car dealerships are considered a non-essential business, while other places allow them to stay open. In Iowa City, Carousel Preowned is open for business.
Steps to purchasing a car are similar to those taken before the virus outbreak, except with the additional health safety and social distancing measures.
Keep Coronavirus Out of Your Vehicle
With the coronavirus outbreak, it is imperative that you clean and sanitize your car. This virus can live on surfaces from several hours to days, so it is very important to keep your car clean. If not properly cleaned, your vehicle could be a hub of coronavirus and other germs. Follow these tips to keep coronavirus out of your vehicle.
Coronavirus Impacting the Car Industry
Since it is interconnected globally, the auto industry has been impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Just a few weeks ago automakers were worried that the production of new cars would be affected since many vehicle parts come from around the world. Now it appears the U.S. auto industry has shut down, as major manufacturers have halted production and closed their facilities due to Stay at Home and Shelter in Place orders in their states.
The coronavirus has also affected the used car market. Since auto auctions are where car dealers get their inventory and they, too, have shut down, this will affect the availability of pre-owned vehicles.
Since the COVID-19 situation is fluid and changing rapidly, used car shoppers should first check with the status of their local used car dealership. Since the local dealership is close by, they would be able to tell you about its current situation and whether they are open or not.
Carousel Preowned currently has a large inventory of used vehicles available for sale. You can visit the used car dealership's website at www.carouseliowacity.com and shop used and certified pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs from the convenience of your home. Shoppers can text or call the dealership at (319) 351-1993 or even use their online chat service to inquire about used cars for sale. You can even negotiate the price of a vehicle by email or phone. The dealership can have the paperwork ready to minimize your time in the showroom.
Iowa Ranked Best State for Driving
What makes one state a better place for driving than another? Wallethub decided to find out. The study revealed Iowa, despite the snow and ice that makes driving there difficult, ranked the best state in the country for driving. Tennessee came in second, followed by North Carolina, Texas and Nebraska, rounding off the five best states for driving in the U.S. The island of Hawaii came in last overall.
How Connected is Your Used Car?
Since used cars these days are getting younger, you can find many models equipped with the latest safety advanced features like forward collision warning (FCW), automatic emergency braking (AEB), pedestrian detection and blind sport warning (BSW). Many of these vehicles are even equipped with technology that allows the owner to use certain apps on their mobile phone to start and lock their vehicle, control and track its location, control its heating and cooling systems and its auxiliary devices. Driving a connected car is safe and can improve your driving experience, but as a buyer, you needs to be aware that the apps on the used "connected" car or truck that you purchase may still be connected and controlled by the vehicle's previous owner.
Iowa Car Dealer Fees - What's Mandatory and What's Not?
When extra fees are tacked on to the price of new and used cars at the end of the car buying process and the out-the-door price turns out to be much higher than what was originally agreed upon that car buyers often feel misled.
There are fees that are totally legitimate and required by law. Other fees can be negotiated, while others are optional and unnecessary. Learning about the different fees associated with buying a car is an important part of the car buying process, whether you are buying a used vehicle or new.
Which Used Cars Have the Lowest Repair Incidents and Costs?
Buyers of used cars are most concerned about getting the best value out of their purchase. Each year CarMD.com ranks vehicles by year, brands, makes and category based on frequency of check engine light problems and average cost of repairs. This is useful information for used car buyers in Iowa who want a vehicle that is reliable with the fewest repair headaches and lowest costs.
The Check Engine Light is On - Can I Still Drive My Car?
Your vehicle is running smoothly, then suddenly the check engine light turns on. Should you continue driving or should you stop your vehicle? While minor issues can cause the light to turn on, not addressing the problem can lead to costly repairs down the road.
For Winter Driving: All-Wheel Drive or Winter Tires?
If you live in Iowa or other parts of the Midwest where you are often hit by heavy snow and blizzards in the winter, it's best to learn whether purchasing a used all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle is better than installing winter tires on your car.
It's a new year and the start of a new decade. It could mean it's time for you to buy a new car. Studies show many consumers these days will look to a used model as their next vehicle because they know they can get the best value for their dollar.
When you are in the market for a car, be smart and look at used cars first before buying new. According to cars.com, used cars outsell new cars by over two to one. In fact, a recent Harris Poll found nearly 70 percent of consumers would consider a used car, truck or SUV as their next vehicle.
Ever wonder why some gas tanks are placed on the right side of vehicles and why others are placed on the left side? It's a question that has been asked often, but there is no uniform reason.
The holidays are upon us and many families will be taking long distance trips to be with relatives and friends. In addition to preparing your car for the trip, it's important to prepare yourself and make sure you are rested and alert before taking that long dive.
Plan Your Holiday Travel and Survival with Kids
The holidays are upon us and many families will be taking long distance trips to be with relatives and friends during these special occasions. How do you know if your used car can handle a road trip? Nothing could be worse than having your car break down and you and your family being stranded on a country road.
Easy Tricks to Protect Your Car from Snow
With our first official snow this month can we say winter is officially here? Whether you always park your car outside, or you happen to park somewhere for long hours or overnight, when the temperature is freezing cold and heavy snow is falling you're likely to find your car buried in snow and your car doors frozen shut.
These days consumers have many options from whom or where they can purchase a used vehicle. They can purchase a used vehicle via the internet, or from a private seller or a used car dealership. There are many amenities used car dealerships offer that private sellers and online sellers can't offer consumers.
SUVs or Crossovers, What’s the Difference?
Among the most popular vehicles today, whether new or used, are the sports utility vehicle (SUV) and crossover. These vehicles come in different sizes and at affordable prices. What is the difference between an SUV and a crossover, and is one better than the other?
The Type of Used Car You Buy Should Match Your Lifestyle
Many factors need to be considered when you buy a used car. Keeping the cost of the car within your budget is, of course, the biggest factor, but you also have to decide on the type of car that’s right for you. It would be a shame if you buy a car just because it’s inexpensive even if it’s not right for you.
You’ll Be Seeing AEB Feature in More Used Cars
Industry experts say the autonomous emergency breaking (AEB) system is probably the most important safety development in recent years. Soon, every new car will have this feature; in fact, this feature is already available in a number of used cars.
Over the past decade, there’s been a huge increase in the availability of tech safety features in cars. These days you can find many late model used cars, particularly those under five years old, that have important tech safety features at a fraction of the cost of newer models.
What are the top tech safety features you should look for when buying a used car?
Why You Should Heed Car Safety Recalls
While majority of consumers claim they heed automotive recalls, information gathered by the National High Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found only 61.7 percent of recalled vehicles are repaired, even after sending owners multiple recall notices over 18 months.
When you receive a recall for your vehicle, you should heed the recall and take your vehicle into the manufacturer immediately. Read more to know why this is important.
When buying a used car, make sure the car owner’s manual is included. You should take the time to read through your car’s owner’s manual. Every car is different, especially these days with more technological advancements in newer used cars. Merely pressing buttons could get you in a lot of trouble, especially if you do so while driving the vehicle.
The Credit Score Auto Lenders Use is Not the Same as Yours
Do you know that auto lenders and dealers will have a different credit score from one you’ve obtained? This means your auto lender's credit score could be much higher or lower than your score.
Pickup trucks are becoming a top-selling vehicle in America. In fact, pickup trucks are more popular in the U.S. than any other country in the world. Many will even go as far as saying trucks are a part of the American culture, having replaced the working horses and horse-drawn wagons of the past.
In places like Texas and Iowa, they are considered a necessity for venturing on country roads, on gravel, mud, and off roads in fields.
If you plan to replace your car, you can do it the for-sale-by-owner way, or trade in your car for a newer model.
Car shopping can be an exciting time and it’s tempting to visit dealerships and look at cars right away. STOP! There are a few things you need to do before buying a car because unlike most items you buy at a store, you can’t return a car once you’ve purchased it.
It makes a lot of sense to purchase a good used car instead of a new car because of cost and value. Used cars are less expensive and new cars depreciate quickly - by more than 20 percent after the first year of ownership and by about 10 percent for the next four years. Now there is supporting evidence that shows consumers agree.
You need a car badly, but you don’t have enough money to purchase a car and you’re worried you won’t be able to get a car loan because you have a bad credit history. Don’t despair; you may still be able to purchase a car even with bad credit. Here are a few tips that may help you.
Many childhood memories revolve around bonding experiences in a family car while on road trips or just regular trips to school and the store. If you’re in the market for a used vehicle that will comfortably fit your family for everyday use and for summer road trips, here are auto reviewers’ top picks of family cars that perform well on the road, are reliable, comfortable with plenty of room for people, luggage and even the family pet, and still offer reasonable mileage.
Do Rental Cars Make Good Used Cars?
Thousands of rental cars ago to dealers across the country and some rental car companies sell their retired rental cars directly to consumers. Most rental agencies keep their cars well-maintained with strict service schedules, as their reputation depends on the performance of these vehicles. Since they want to attract customers to lease their cars, they want to have newer models on hand, so they sell their slightly older model cars at fixed below-retail values, which could be a good deal for bargain car shoppers.
Best Used Top-Down Cars to Enjoy on a Sunny Day
Summer is here and with warm weather begins with the promise of more sunny days and fun on the road. There are many affordable used top-down convertible cars you can enjoy. Here are some popular models recommended by many auto reviewers.
Not many drivers think a car safety recall is a big deal; it is, and not paying attention to it could cost you your life. More than 20 injuries and 24 deaths have been linked to a faulty airbag inflator. According to Consumer Reports, the recall now affects 19 automakers and 183 models, covering airbags in nearly 42 million vehicles.
Changing the oil of your car regularly is one of the best ways to extend the life of your car and enhance its performance on the road. Your car’s engine oil lubricates parts of your engine. Over time, the oil gets dirty, its consistency changes and soon, your car’s performance will drop; or worse, your car will stop running.
Before purchasing a used car, it is essential that you obtain a report detailing the car’s history. A vehicle history report (VHR) can provide information on whether a car has been in any accident, its title history, when and where it was sold, number of owners, mileage and service reports, open recalls, and much more.
We all want to save on gas mileage and improve our car’s fuel economy, but there appear to be many misconceptions about fuel economy. Differentiating these myths from the facts can help your research when you are shopping for a car.
Overall, technology has made shopping easier for consumers, from buying a shirt, a pair of shoes to buying a car or even a house online. You often can return a shirt or pair of shoes online, but not so with a car or a house. Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a car online.
When shopping for a used car, an important feature to look for is a vehicle with the best fuel economy. There are many previously owned vehicles that have been rated highly for their fuel efficiency. Here are just a few favorites listed on many sites as having a solid reputation for fuel efficiency and reliability.
When you purchase a vehicle, whether new or used, it is essential to have car insurance in order to drive your vehicle; in fact, it is the law. You have to have your state’s minimum liability coverage. If you don’t have car insurance, you could lose your driver’s license. If you get into an accident, you would have to pay for damages you caused and face stiff fines for not having insurance coverage. Your car could even be impounded.
Top Used Vehicles for Winter Driving
Winter (unfortunately) isn’t over yet, so it’s not too late to think of purchasing a car that is reliable, safe, and dependable that will help you navigate through Iowa’s winter road conditions. Car experts advise purchasing an all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, especially if you live in a four-season state like ours. AWD vehicles provide good grip and extra traction in any slippery conditions - in rain, ice, snow or on roads covered with damp leaves in the fall. Best of all, you can find a reliable used AWD vehicle for under $10,000.
Do You Have These Winter Car Essentials?
While it may be the first day of March in many parts of the United States it continues to feel like Old Man Winter is here to stay – despite Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction of an early spring. So, in addition to making sure you have the necessary items like your winter coats, mittens, gloves, caps, and scarves you also need to treat your car the same way. Make sure your car has the essentials in case you get stranded somewhere and help is not close by.
If you're in the market to buy a car, you should be aware of criminals listing cars for sale that they don't actually own. The FBI recently released an alert on a growing scam targeting car buyers online. Read more to learn about the scam and get tips to protect you from scammers.
Winter can be tough on your car, especially in heavy snowfall, ice and freezing temperatures. Protecting your car during the winter will also protect you on the road. Here are some tips to help your car beat the winter and keep you safe.
With Valentine’s Day approaching, you will want to take your date to a romantic dinner or weekend getaway. While you may not have the most romantic car of all time (yet), we thought it’d be fun to share the list of all-time romantic cars and features that add romance.
The Difference Between Auto Service Contracts and Warranties
When shopping for a new or used car, you may be encouraged to purchase an auto service contract as a protection against unexpected and costly repairs on your car. Auto service contracts may sound like a good deal, but they can be costly. It is best to do some research before spending the extra money. Read more to learn the difference between auto service contracts and warranties.
Some people are just not keen on buying a used car because they have misconceptions about pre-owned vehicles. The reality is it makes perfect sense to buy a used car. Here are four myths about buying used cars.
How To Select The Best Family Car For You
Your family has grown from one child to two and another on the way. You’ve outgrown your compact car and it’s time to search for a good family car. There are many great family cars in all shapes and sizes, new and used, though not all vehicles marketed as family cars may be a good choice for your family and in your budget range.
If you have an older used vehicle, it’s a good idea if you check your car’s headlights for signs of deterioration. New research from AAA found that clouded or yellowed headlights generate only 20 percent of the amount of light that new headlights do, leading to dangerous nighttime driving conditions.
Driving a vehicle whether new or used is an enormous responsibility. That’s why when you see other drivers on the road that do not seem to take driving seriously, it can be downright annoying and even deadly. Many of these annoying drivers are responsible for having a “near miss” or accident or are the cause of road rage.
Many people get attached to their car, especially if the car has performed well for many years. It’s a tough call to decide it’s time to replace your car, but no matter how well you care for a car, the time will come when the repairs will be costing too much and it may no longer be safe to drive.
When shopping for a used car, it is always ideal to purchase a car with low mileage. An average of 12-15,000 miles a year is considered the norm, so a five-year-old car would ideally have on average of 60-75,000 miles. Cars with more mileage than that would be considered high mileage, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they can’t last for many years. Read more to find out how long your used car can last and when it's time to consider replacing it.
AAA projects more than 54 million Americans will travel this Thanksgiving holiday — a 4.8 percent increase over last year and the highest travel volume since 2005. If you’re one of the millions planning to travel by car, we’ve put together our list of Thanksgiving car travel dos and don’ts.
So, you bought a used car and you want to keep it for as long as you can. By improving its fuel mileage, you will not only save on the life of the car, but you’ll also save a lot of money at the gas pumps. Here are a few helpful tips to save on gas and improve your gas mileage.
.
When purchasing a car, the color you choose can matter. If you are buying a new car, the car’s color can affect the resale value of the car. If you’re purchasing a used car, color can matter, as well.
Driving a car is a big responsibility and with it comes the obligation to be a diligent and safe driver. Distracted driving increases your chances of getting involved in a motor vehicle accident.
Data from the Iowa Department of Transportation shows in 2017, nearly 9,000 of the more than 55,000 motor vehicle crashes in Iowa were caused by a distraction. Nearly 400 of those crashes involved drivers talking on or manually operating an electronic device. Read more to learn tips to avoid being a distracted driver.
When buying a used car, mileage is an important factor, but age can be a big factor, too. In some cases, it may matter more.
The norm for the “average” number of miles per year is 15,000 miles. So a car that is five years old with a mileage of 75,000 miles would be considered average. Cars with a mileage that is significantly less would be considered to be low mileage, and cars with more would be considered high mileage. Read more to know if mileage or age matter more when buying a car.
Over six million accidents occur each year in the U.S. With so many cars on the roads, it could happen to you, so it’s important to know what to do if you are in a car accident. Here are six things you should do if you’re in a car accident.
Some people think your eyes are important for safe driving. It’s true, but you also need your ears to alert you to unusual sounds coming from your car.
After driving your car for a while, you will be able to familiarize yourself with how your car sounds. Be alert to any sounds that are out of the ordinary. The louder and more frequent that sound gets, the more urgent attention it needs. If you continue to ignore these car noises, it could cost you. Read more about
Congratulations! You are now the owner of a new car. The car may be used, but it’s yours! You have performed the needed inspection, you did the research and you were able to negotiate the best price. It’s yours and you are ready for new adventures in your new car.
Most people think once they purchase a car, the work is done and all they need to do is drive it on the roads. Not so. Don’t get carried away by the relief and euphoria you feel after purchasing a car. Read more for
Summer is coming to a close and many students are headed to college. That may mean a road trip a few miles away or several states away. So, before you go, read more for a simple road trip checklist you can do a few days before you head to school.
You’re buying a used car because you know it has more value than purchasing a new vehicle. Cars that are around two years old are especially a good deal since their new car value has dropped nearly 50 percent from their original sticker price.
In any negotiation, knowledge is power. Once you have an idea of the kind of car you’d like to purchase, do your research on what the car is worth used. Check the Kelley Blue Book or the National Automobile Dealer Guide Official Used Car Guide to get both retail value and wholesale value of the car. Read more to learn how to negotiate on a used car at a dealership.
There can be great deals on cars throughout the year, depending on the occasion, the season, the month, the day or even the time of day.
Watch for sales, especially during holidays like Black Friday, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and Columbus Day. Some, but not all three-day weekends can be good times to buy a used car. You may not get the best deal in the months of April, May, June or July. During these times, the weather gets warmer and more car shoppers come out and are ready to spend money, so dealerships may have less incentive to offer discounts. Read more to know when the best time to buy a used car is.
Whether pre-owned or new, the key to keeping a vehicle healthy and you happy and safe is regular maintenance. Neglecting regular maintenance on your car can lead to a breakdown or, worse yet, a bad accident. It could cost you a lot of money, if not your life.
Here are priorities you need to check regularly to keep your vehicle well-maintained, increase its life span and keep your safe on the road.
Should I Buy a Used Car from a Private Seller or a Car Dealership
When you’ve decided you are better off buying a used car instead of a brand-new car, the next question that will come to mind is whether you should buy the vehicle from a private seller or a dealership. Let’s examine the pros and cons.
Know the Difference: Vehicle History Report vs. Vehicle History
Acquiring a vehicle history report before purchasing a used car can save you a lot of money and headache afterwards. A vehicle history report can be purchased for a fee from companies like Carfax and AutoCheck.com. Other websites, like the National Insurance Crime Bureau, can provide you with the history of a vehicle for free, but they will not provide you with as detailed information.
Whether pre-owned or new, the key to keeping a vehicle healthy and you happy and safe is regular maintenance. Neglecting regular maintenance on your car can lead to a breakdown or, worse yet, a bad accident. It could cost you a lot of money, if not your life.
Here are priorities you need to check regularly to keep your vehicle well-maintained, increase its life span and keep your safe on the road.
Every car, no matter how well-maintained, will reach its limit and sooner or later, you’ll have to decide whether the car is worth keeping, or whether it’s time to look for another vehicle. Read more to know when it's time to replace your care.
You’ve done your research on the type of car you want and you are ready to approach the dealer. The question is, will you get a better deal if you pay all cash for a pre-owned car?
A buyer paying all cash may appeal to a seller, but cash may not always be king when it comes to buying a used car. Paying all cash for a car would save you money on interest charges and could save you time in a dealership, but it may not always guarantee that you’ll get a better deal.
So, you’re ready to say good-bye to your car. Maybe you want to replace it because it’s giving you more trouble than you want to deal with; or, maybe just want a change - something new or newer.
Of course, you’d like to get the most money out of your car. At Carousel Pre-Owned, we want to help our customers be informed, so here are a few things you can do to prepare your car so you get the most for trade-in.
At Carousel Preowned, we are proud to be a used car and automotive leader in our community. Our customers are very important to us and our customer care goes beyond purchasing a vehicle; we want you to be safe. We encourage everyone to carry a Survival Kit in their car. In an emergency, it could save your life and the lives of your passengers. Read more to learn what
It’s a rare person who enjoys the car buying process. More often than not, we find ourselves wondering what questions we should ask when we’re at the dealership. And when we do purchase a new car, we wonder “Did I get a good deal?”
Getting a good deal is more than just price. At Carousel Preowned, we want to help our customers be informed; help them know what questions to ask. So, we’ve compiled a list of 15 car buying questions you should ask. Some of these questions may not be applicable to your situation and there may even be more that we forgot, but it’s a start and we hope it’s helpful.
You’re considering purchasing a new or used car, but when it comes to the cost and your budget – what should you know about? For starters, used cars are the most affordable. The average new car can range anywhere from $20,000 to $55,000 according to Kelly Blue Book. While the average used car can range anywhere from a few thousand to the average $13,000.
Beyond the sticker price, it’s smart to get ahead of expenses like maintenance, repairs, parking, gas and more. To get a handle on your budget, determine ceilings for down payment costs, monthly payments, insurance in addition to miscellaneous expenses like parking and gas. Here’s what you need to remember when budgeting for your used car.
If you’re shopping for a used car, you’ll want to understand what types of used cars there are and what to look for before setting out on your search. Here’s a look at the types of used cars and what to consider.
You’re ready to sell your car. You have a few options, some easier than others. You can sell it on your own, privately. This will often get you the most money, however it requires a great deal of time and effort. You can use sites like Cars.com or AutoTrader, which also require time and effort. Or, you can sell your car to a dealership. Here’s what you need to know if you’re selling your car to a dealership.
There are many reasons why buying a used car rather than a new car is a wise choice. But there are also factors that should be taken into consideration before purchasing a used car. Good mileage is one them. But how much mileage is good for a used car? Here’s what to know before purchasing a used car.
If you're buying a used car for your teenager, here are a few things to keep in mind before you go to the dealership.
What You Need to Know When Test-Driving A Used Car
Buying a car can be a big decision. Making the most of a test drive is a simple matter of common sense, careful observation, and knowing what to look for. Read on for how to prepare yourself for this all-important experience and what to keep track of when taking a car out for the first time.
You’ve decided to purchase a new car – fantastic! We invite you to look at our online selection of used cars and certified pre-owned vehicles. We are confident that your dream car is here on our parking lot.
Advantages of Buying a Used Car
Used cars are a great option for all kinds of drivers. They offer benefits like having more options and lower prices, making them an excellent and affordable choice. If you’re considering buying a used car, read on to find out more about how Carousel Preowned can help.
When you decide to purchase a car, truck or SUV from a Carousel 2, you’ve made a good decision. Shopping at Carousel 2 ensures that you’ll obtain a high-quality automobile that has already met our high standards. Read about a
Buying your first car can seem a little daunting. There are many makes and models to choose from with a variety of features. It can be difficult to sort through the options and find the best car for you. Consider these ten tips before you buy a car.
If you are looking to buy a car for yourself or a family member, consider purchasing a used car instead of a new car. Carousel Preowned is a trusted used car dealer, and we believe that our high-quality used cars will fulfill your transportation needs.
Date: Feb. 13, 2017 | Category: Honda Fit
The 2015 Honda Fit EX-L in Iowa City is making a splash in the economy car market, redefining the way these cars handle and look. This five-person hatchback offers plenty of character on the inside, and a fun performance wherever your journeys take you. It delivers on all points, from a spacious interior to an impressive fuel economy...
Date: Feb. 7, 2017 | Category: Chevrolet Malibu LT
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu LT in Iowa City is a great vehicle to take out with the family, given its reliability and cargo space. It offers plenty of safety and entertainment features as well to ensure every passenger has a good time on long-distance trips...
Date: Feb. 1, 2017 | Category: Dodge Journey RT
Cruising down different roads can be epic every time when inside the refined 2015 Dodge Journey RT, a timeless SUV designed for today’s modern world. Its interior is fit for a queen and king, and the exterior drops jaws in any setting. Take this SUV out for long-distance trips with the family or daily commutes. It is ready when you are...
Date: Jan. 25, 2017 | Category: Dodge Journey RT
Perhaps one of the most competitive markets in the automotive industry is the SUV crossover segment. Despite this, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander SE soars above its SUV competitors with its commendable fuel-economy, tech-oriented features, and long-lasting parts. It is designed for the roads less traveled and busy cities, making it a versatile SUV to add to your collection...