Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Car

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 23:07:53 GMT

Buying a new car is an exciting time - but it can also be stressful. After all, you're trying to get the best deal on price, while also deciding on the make, model and features you need.

We can't really help you become a master negotiator when it comes to buying a car. But we can give you some things to consider when you're looking around the lot - and when you're trying to answer the age-old question of "new, or used?"

Now, the new vs. used argument is pretty well documented - with people usually staunchly in one camp or the other - and you probably already know what side you're on. But read on with an open mind, and you might just come to a different decision the next time you’re on the car lot.

New cars

Ah, that new-car smell. It's a bit of a cliché, but it's one of the things that people love about climbing into a brand-new car. And while they make air fresheners that supposedly give you that same smell for your used car, it just doesn't seem the same, does it? Still, there are other benefits to buying new - and, of course, there are drawbacks as well.

PRO - Choices: When you buy new, you get to choose your color and the exact features you want. From spoilers to sunroofs to leather seats and stereo systems, you can customize your car to best fit you.
PRO - Maintenance: Some manufacturers offer free scheduled maintenance for a set period of time after you buy the car, and you likely won't need a new battery, tires, etc., for several years after your purchase.
PRO - Peace of Mind: Your new car may have a warranty for up to 10 years, and also is covered by "lemon laws" that could allow for a replacement or refund if the car has serious defects.
CON - Cost: Depending on the make and model, buying a new car is almost always more expensive (at least in terms of the purchase price) than a used car.

It's also worth noting that if you purchase a new car in its first model year (meaning it's a new model for the automaker), there won't be many user reviews available, and data on reliability and repairs will be limited. In addition, sometimes newly introduced cars have some kinks that generally are ironed out by the second and third model years. These aren't necessarily serious issues, and the warranty should cover them, but in some instances, you and your car could be headed to the shop more than you'd like.

Used Cars

Don't care about the new-car smell? Looking to save some money on your purchase? Well, a used car might be right for you. There are many advantages to buying used, but you'll want to be a little more careful. After all, it's hard to know exactly how well the previous owner treated the car. But you can limit your risk with a little bit of work.

PRO - Choices: While you won't necessarily get to customize your used car, you likely can find a pretty good fit. There are lots of used cars out there.
PRO - Cost: New cars depreciate quickly after they're purchased. By buying used, you're letting someone else take that financial hit over the first few years of the life of the car.
PRO/CON - Reliability: Buying a used car is less of a gamble than it used to be, particularly with the advent of "certified pre-owned" programs many automakers now offer. However, used cars generally don't carry the same warranties as new cars, even though the original manufacturer's warranty is usually transferable to a second owner.
CON - Maintenance: While a used car theoretically shouldn't need more frequent maintenance than a new car, you'll likely need to replace things like tires, headlights, etc., earlier. And scheduled maintenance probably isn't covered by the automaker.
PRO/CON - History: You'll need to check the car's title history to make sure it hasn't been in a serious accident or salvaged. Ask the dealership to provide this information, usually from Carfax.

Of course, whichever car you purchase, the important thing is that it's a good fit for you. Bear in mind that certain makes and models can result in higher car insurance costs for you, so feel free to check in with us before you buy.

Have fun shopping - and we'll see you on the road!

Transportation Issues & Seattle Businesses

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 20:06:30 GMT

Do Transportation Issues Impact Your Washington Business?

In the United States there are a number of governmental agencies who have responsibility for our transportation systems on the ground, in our waterways and up in the skies. Each one has their own set of transportation projects or travel safety initiatives. And in many cases, a short drive from point "A" to point "B" can mean using systems regulated and policed by multiple municipalities.

Is transportation an important part of your business? Whether you are a professional cleaner making service calls, a farmer who needs to transport fertilizer or a long-haul trucker, it's important to know where to find transportation news and information that applies to you. A good place to start is the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). Yes, it's a large organization, consisting of 13 different agencies, but the USDOT provides a wealth of resources. Here are just a few highlights from the USDOT website.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

With safety as its #1 priority, the NHTSA provides driving, vehicle and equipment safety guidelines and educational programs that are of benefit to everyone, regardless of the reasons for being on the road.

Be sure to check out the Distracted Driving Program, www.distraction.gov, which offers educational tools for employers, schools, parents, law enforcement, and communities.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

FMCSA's primary mission is to prevent commercial motor vehicle-related fatalities and injuries. This is where you'll learn about new carrier safety rules being proposed by the USDOT and current Rules and Regulations. If you transport hazardous material or cargo, need to track hours of service, or want to learn more about safety compliance, visit this website.

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)

The FHWA's job is to ensure that America's roads and highways continue to be safe and technologically up-to-date by providing support to States, local and tribal governments for constructing, improving, and preserving our highway systems. Here you'll find information about federally funded projects and initiatives as well as directories to other resources:

Whether your business travel is limited to Seattle or extends through the state of Washington and beyond, we want you to be prepared. Contact us for answers to your questions about managing risk, loss prevention or workplace safety.

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation, www.usdot.gov.

Seattle Insurance News

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Car

New cars

Used Cars

Transportation Issues & Seattle Businesses