QUALITY USED CARS, TRUCKS, AND SUVS!

The Roadmaster Auto Sale Blog

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Cabin Filter Change

The frequency of changing the cabin air filter in a car depends on various factors such as the make and model of the vehicle, driving conditions, and climate. However, it is generally recommended to replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. In areas with high levels of air pollution, dusty roads, or construction sites, the cabin air filter may get clogged faster and require more frequent replacement. Similarly, in areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall, the filter may become damp and promote the growth of mold and bacteria. This can cause unpleasant odors and affect the air quality inside the car. It is important to note that a dirty or clogged cabin air filter can reduce the efficiency of the car’s ventilation system, reduce airflow to the cabin, and increase strain on the blower motor. This can lead to reduced heating or cooling performance, increased fuel consumption, and even damage to the HVAC system over time. To ensure that your car’s cabin air filter is working properly and to maintain good air quality inside the cabin, it is a good practice to check the filter periodically and replace it as needed. You can consult your car’s owner’s manual or a certified mechanic for specific recommendations on how often to replace the cabin air filter in your vehicle. 

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Vehicle Undercoating

LUID FILM® penetrates to the base metal, providing a lasting, protective barrier from the corrosive effects of salts, calcium and sodium chloride, pesticides and fertilizers. Offering an easy “no drip” application, FLUID FILM® offers a cheaper and more effective alternative to the standard hard-underbody coatings. Protecting undercoatings from metal deterioration, FLUID FILM® also remains soft and pliable, making it self-healing, non-drying, and impossible to crack. FLUID FILM® migrates to inaccessible areas, providing up to a full year of solid protection 

The destructive force of corrosion is the single greatest threat to your vehicle. Consistent exposure to a wide range of elements such as sun, rain, wind and snow can lead to rapid deterioration of metal, not only resulting in poor appearance and loss of value, but hazardous safety issues as well. Road salt, brine and debris also kick up and cling to vehicle under-bodies, eating away at metal and electrical connections. 

FLUID FILM® is manufactured using an intricate heating and blending process, which combines unrefined wool wax with selective polar agents and corrosion inhibitors, creating a unique, lanolin-based formulation that stops existing rust on contact. Penetrating on contact, it creates a fluid, self-healing barrier that is always active and will not chip or crack, protecting vehicle undercoating’s and exposed metals for extended periods of time. Safe for use on all metals, it will stop pitting in chrome, will not harm most paints or plastic, and has exceptional lubricating properties, penetrating to stop squeaks and provide lasting lubricity for all moving parts. Electrically non conductive, FLUID FILM® has a high flash point and a thin, flexible composition, making it a perfect protector for battery terminals and electrical connections. 

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No Rebuilt Cars!

When considering purchasing a car, it is important to be cautious if it has a rebuilt title. This means that the vehicle was previously issued a salvage title due to severe damage that made it uneconomical to repair, but has since been restored to roadworthy condition. However, it is possible that the car's structural integrity may have been compromised, even if repairs were extensive enough to earn it a rebuilt title. Therefore, it is risky to take a chance on a car with a rebuilt title.

Furthermore, insurance companies may have difficulty placing a value on a car with a rebuilt title, making it harder to obtain full coverage or even coverage at all. It is important to know whether or not the car has been salvaged or rebuilt as there could be hidden problems that affect its safety or reliability. It is recommended to have any car with a rebuilt title examined thoroughly by a certified independent mechanic to ensure that repairs were done properly and no corners were cut.

Although the car may not be unsafe to operate, it may result in expensive breakdowns and repairs down the line. Additionally, it may be difficult to sell a car with a rebuilt title in the future, and it will likely sell for far less than a car with a clean title. Therefore, it is important to consider these factors before purchasing a car with a rebuilt title, unless you plan on keeping it for a long time.

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How Dealer-Arranged Financing Works

Dealer Financing Process

In dealer-assisted financing, the dealer gathers your information and shares it with one or more potential car loan providers. If a lender decides to finance your loan, they may offer or quote an interest rate to the dealer, known as the "buy rate." The interest rate you negotiate with the dealer might be higher than the "buy rate" as it could include compensation for the dealer's financing services.

For example, a dealership submits your loan application to multiple lenders (banks, credit unions, etc.) they work with. A credit union responds with a 5% buy rate. The dealer then presents a 6% interest rate to you. The extra 1% is for the dealer's effort in arranging the loan.

Dealer Financing Negotiation

You might be able to negotiate the interest rate provided by the dealer. Request or negotiate a loan with better terms, and compare the dealership's financing offer with any pre-approval rates from banks, credit unions, or other lenders. Choose the option that suits your budget best.

Key Takeaways in Dealer Financing

Some dealerships offer "in-house" financing for borrowers with poor or no credit, such as "Buy Here Pay Here" dealerships that advertise messages like "No Credit, No Problem!" The interest rates on loans from these dealerships can be significantly higher than loans from traditional lenders. Consider if the loan's cost is worth the vehicle purchase. Even with poor or no credit, explore options with banks, credit unions, or other dealers willing to offer loans. These types of dealerships typically require you to make monthly payments directly to them instead of a bank or credit union. Some Buy Here Pay Here dealerships and other lenders catering to those with poor or no credit may install devices in the vehicles to facilitate repossession or disablement in case of missed payments.

Purchasing a car is a significant decision, particularly concerning your finances. Carefully assess the terms (payment, duration, and interest rate) of all offers. Acquiring an auto loan directly from a lender bypasses the dealer's involvement and potential markup in financing negotiations. A small difference in interest rate may not seem significant, but it can accumulate over the loan's duration. If you're unsure how a payment might fit your budget, consult a credit counselor. They can evaluate your income and expenses and might help you reduce debts to better afford a vehicle.

 

 

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