Auto insurance is legally required in France
Auto insurance is a legal requirement in France, as it is in Britain. Make no mistake about this, because not having Auto insurance is an offence punishable by six months in prison, and that is not the ideal way to spend your holiday or new life in France! However, although there is a lot of conflicting information out there about Auto insurance in France, it isn't as complicated as it may at first appear, and you can take heart from the fact that millions of Brits have already managed to sort it out satisfactorily.
Auto insurance options
There are a number of options open to the British driver who wishes to drive in France. The best way forward depends very much on individual circumstances and requirements, and depends to some considerable degree on whether or not you are a resident of France, of another European Union country, or of a non EU country.
Auto hire in France
If you are a short term visitor only, then you may find that a simple Auto hire agreement is the most straightforward solution for you. Auto hire firms may offer special deals, and rates are usually competitive and reasonable. The advantage of doing this is that the Auto is easily available from your point of arrival in France, and can be dropped off at your point of departure, and you do not have to worry about insurance or “controle techniques” or complex registration processes! Auto insurance through Auto hire firms in France differs as it does in the UK. It would always be best to hire the Auto through a reputable company, check what fully comprehensive insurance actually covers, and look into the costs of paying extra for collision damage waiver which may not be included initially.
Long-term solution for your Auto insurance in France
If, however, you are going to be in France for long periods of time, or on a very regular or permanent basis you will need to take the bull by the horns and finds a long term solution.
Auto insurance for residents of Non European Union Countries
If you are resident of a non EU country such as Canada or the USA, you can take advantage of a great system known as the TT scheme. Citroën run one such scheme, in which you receive a Auto under temporary ownership at a very low price. Tax, insurance etc. is all taken care of for you, and you can use the Auto for a minimum of 17 days and a maximum of 180. The Autos are fitted with easily recognisable plates, so you are unlikely to get any hassle from the police.
Auto insurance in France using your existing Auto insurance company
The easiest way to insure your Auto in France if you are still resident in the UK, is to contact your existing Auto insurance company, to extend your UK policy to cover France. Usually Autos are covered for third party in EU countries, but it would be advisable to increase cover to fully comprehensive. It would be well worth looking into the breakdown insurance that is offered too, as many offer an excellent package with English speaking assistance provided. Check the options on offer as some Auto insurance companies include everything in one package, while others offer a cheaper initial deal but leave out important cover. It would be worth making sure that the cover includes road-side assistance, replacement parts cover and providing over-night accommodation when necessary. Some will get your Auto back to the UK, others won’t.
Green card system
If you have an English registered vehicle which you wish to drive in France, you may wish to take out a Green Card .This is not an insurance policy in itself, but simply an internationally recognised card which guarantees that you have suitable legal insurance from your own country. It is not, strictly necessary for EU drivers in France, but it can be a useful item should you be stopped or, involved in any accident. Your insurer in England should be able to issue this card on request, and there should be no extra cost although some agents charge a small administrative fee. This option, however, is only suitable for those who are UK residents. If you are resident in France the rules are quite different. Please note also, that this is only suitable for those who only need to drive the vehicle in France for less than 90 days per year.
Auto insurance for a second Auto in France
One option which you may consider is that of keeping a second Auto in France for use when you are in the country. This is feasible, but you must understand that the legal requirement for insuring such a vehicle is different from the requirement in Britain. In the UK, once you have filled in a SORN form you can legally withdraw insurance payments until such time as you wish to re-use the Auto. In France, although you must notify your insurer that your Auto is off the road, as in the UK, you are legally bound to maintain third party insurance on the vehicle at all times. Another factor to consider is the cost of second hand Autos in France... if cost is an issue, which it is for many of us! Second hand Autos in France are much more expensive, as a rule, than they are in Britain, so this needs to be built in to the planning if you are considering this option.
Auto insurance for French residents
If you are a permanent resident in France you are bound by French law. French law states that if you are resident in France, insurance on your vehicle is part of your "responsibilité civile". If you are a French resident, to comply fully with French law you must register and insure your vehicles within the French system, which means changing your UK plate to a French plate. It is possible to legally drive an English registered vehicle which is insured with a French insurer, but usually only for six months, and only when you are involved in the process of changing the registration of the vehicle to a French plate. (Although some have been told that as a French resident, you have one month to complete the registration unless there is a valid reason that will take you beyond that time.) It will be necessary to go the local Hotel des Impots and ask them for a quittus fiscal certificate. The certificate is free and incorporates your authority to drive your UK vehicle on its foreign plates for a month (or however long agreed by the authorities), whilst you arrange the registration.
Auto insurance for English number plates
Many French insurance companies are not keen to offer a service of insurance for English plated vehicles, but if you shop around you will find one who can. AGF are a company who are usually amenable to this, and are very reasonably priced as well. Do begin the process of changing to a French plate as soon as possible though... like everything that you do in France you will find it takes for ever, requires more paperwork than you ever thought possible and is inevitably more complicated than you expected!
Auto insurance and tax in France
There is another reason too, for changing to a French plate as soon as possible. If you have an English plated vehicle which is based in France, yet you make trips to the UK in that vehicle, you can run into the problem of tax. In France there is no system of tax discs as there is in the UK. This means that unless you continue to pay to maintain a UK tax disc, when you enter the UK you are immediately driving illegally. A fully French registered vehicle in England does not face this problem, as the differences in the systems are recognised and accepted.
French Auto insurance
French Auto insurance is similar to, but different from the British system in certain ways. It is basically three tier, with the minimum legal requirement being third party insurance (au tiers) only. Remember this is essential on all vehicles even if off road. The next level is third party, fire and theft, (au tiers illimité, or au tiers complet) and the third is the fully comprehensive, (tous risques). After this, bespoke packages can be created to suit, with your agent adding cover as required. Generally the cost is considerably less than the cost of similar insurance in the UK. Your no claims can usually be carried over from your British insurance, but you will need to supply... guess what... lots of paperwork! Your insurer will send you a ticket to place on the windscreen to show that the insurance is in place. He will also send you an accident form (constat amiable), which you should carry in your vehicle at all times.
Driving licences for French residents
And something else to bear in mind is that if you are now a French resident insuring with a French insurer, you may have to get an International driving licence or a French driving licence. It may sound simple but it isn't necessarily so. You have to be resident in France six months before you can apply to change your licence. The form to be filled in is obtainable from the Sous-Prefecture or similar office, and you also need two passport photos, proof of identity (passport) and proof of domicile (EDF or FranceTelecom bill, or better still, a French medical card obtained from a doctor).
UK driving licences for French residents
However, to avoid having to apply for an International driving licence or French one, it is now possible if you are a French resident, to keep your UK driving licence until it's date of expiry, but you must be aware of a few things. Firstly, this used to be a problem and still is with some French insurers, as many wouldn't accept a UK driving licence. As this is now EU law however, this shouldn't be a problem for much longer. Secondly, you must still have a UK address for your UK driving licence, even if it is your previous UK address. Thirdly, you will still need to follow French law regarding driving licences, eg: age restrictions, validity of licences, medical checks. And finally, if you incur penalty points or road traffic offenses on your licence in France, you will need to change to a French licence. This is more likely to occur if stopped in person by the police.
How to get French Auto insurance
There are insurance (assurance) agents in every town... probably several of them. If your French is good enough you could try the straightforward “walk in” approach and see what services they can offer you. (Learning to speak French - Misadventures in a Foreign Tongue). If your French is shaky, however, the tried and tested “word of mouth” system is useful. Talk to other ex-pats in your area, find out what companies they use and what services are offered.
French Auto insurance companies AXA and AGF
Failing this, there are two large Auto insurance companies which are well versed in dealing with British drivers who need to insure vehicles in France. These are AXA and AGF. AXA have UK agents, and both companies have many English speaking staff (although not necessarily in every office). You do not, of course, need to insure with a local agent as everything is done by post, so you can use an English speaking agent from the other end if the country if you can't find one locally. Shop around until you find the package... and the agent... that suits you.
Final Auto insurance advice
Insurance is one of those things in life which can seem an expensive hassle until you need it. Then it magically becomes the wisest and best thing you ever did!
Saturday, December 26, 2009
California Department of Insurance Contact Information
California Department of Insurance Contact Information The California Department of Insurance is responsible for enforcing many of the insurance-related laws of the state. We are foremost a consumer protection agency. Our number one priority is to protect insurance consumers by regulating the industry’s practices and encouraging a healthy marketplace, which is one of the largest in the world.
Consumer Inquiries and Assistance
Consumer Communications Bureau
300 South Spring Street,
South Tower
Los Angeles, CA 90013
800-927-HELP (4357)
Out-of-State Caller
213-897-8921
Producer Licensing Bureau
California Department of Insurance
320 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814
Sacramento Office
800-967-9331
916-322-3555
Fraud Division
California Department of Insurance
9342 Tech Center Drive
Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95826
Phone: 916-854-5760
Fax: 916-255-3202
Fraud
@Insurance.ca.gov
* Complete list of Fraud Division Regional Offices
Consumer Inquiries and Assistance
Consumer Communications Bureau
300 South Spring Street,
South Tower
Los Angeles, CA 90013
800-927-HELP (4357)
Out-of-State Caller
213-897-8921
Producer Licensing Bureau
California Department of Insurance
320 Capitol Mall
Sacramento, CA 95814
Sacramento Office
800-967-9331
916-322-3555
Fraud Division
California Department of Insurance
9342 Tech Center Drive
Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95826
Phone: 916-854-5760
Fax: 916-255-3202
Fraud
@Insurance.ca.gov
* Complete list of Fraud Division Regional Offices
Auto Insurance in California
Auto Insurance in California for more visit insurance.ca.gov California Department of Insurance This California auto insurance company comparison chart is meant as a guide only.
Be sure and get several quotes, before buying auto insurance. There are many bogus marketing claims.
Auto Insurance in California
21st Century Insurance Company (AIG)
Woodland Hills, CA
1-800-870-8212
874
1999
Merged with AIG auto insurance
AAA - American Automobile Association
Refuse to say - no "About"
none
1998
Must enter ZIP
14
Allstate
Northbrook, IL
1-866-621-6900
995
1997
#1 in negative comments
13,900
California State Automobile Association
San Francisco, CA
none
1996
Must enter ZIP
Eastwood Insurance
Anaheim Hills, CA
1-800-468-LESS
1999
Nor. Cal.
Esurance (White Mountains Insurance Group)
San Francisco, CA
(Bermuda)
1-800-378-7262
2000
65
Farmer's Insurance Group (Zurich Financial Services)
Los Angeles, CA
none
1,079
1997
Must enter ZIP
544
Geico (Berkshire Hathaway)
Chevy Chase, MD
1-800-861-8380
358
1997
Many TV ads
1,130
Mercury General Corp.
1,099
Uses many names
California Automobile Insurance Company
No website
Mercury Insurance Company
Los Angeles, CA (PDF)
1-800-956-3728
1998
8
Mercury Casualty Company
Los Angeles, CA
1-800-431-6654
no website
Nationwide Auto Insurance
Columbus, OH (contact)
1-877-669-6877
222
1997
"A few days"
315
Progressive Auto Insurance
Mayfield Village, OH
1-800-776-4737
454
1998
1,990
Safeco Insurance
Seattle, WA
1-800-903-0679
191
2007
446
State Farm Auto Insurance
Bloomington, IL
none
1,370
Must enter ZIP
1,980
The General Auto Insurance (General Automobile Insurance Services)
Nashville, TN
1-866-519-7422
1998
Many TV ads
Allstate seems to be the worst, regarding negative comments on the web.
Progressive and State Farm also have many negative comments.
California Auto Insurance Quote Information
(for online quote comparison purposes, liability-only for simplification)
Form Info Required
Quote Info
Entered
Low income neighborhoods pay much more
Expect to be spammed senseless
Expensive neighborhoods pay much less
Young drivers pay much more - more accidents
Male drivers pay much more - more wild
Single drivers pay much more
Experienced drivers pay far less
Accident drivers pay more, esp. if young
Drivers with traffic tickets pay more
Homeowners pay much less - more responsible
SUV drivers pay more than compact drivers
Models with high accident rates pay more
High mileage drivers pay more
"Paid for" results in paying less
In almost EVERY case, you must give ALL your personal information FIRST, or you cannot proceed. This is unfortunate, because at any point, if you don't like the subsequent questions (some are too personal), and decide to stop, they ALREADY have your personal information, so that they can spam you senseless with emails and phone calls.
That's why I don't do this, except with a throwaway email address, and false information. I refuse to become their relentlessly targeted pigeon, before I have reviewed all my other alternatives. I prefer the "soft" sell.
Disclaimer:
Many web pages claim a "List of California Auto Insurance Companies", yet not a single one actually has a list.
That's why I made this summary page - an actual list of the top California Auto Insurance Companies.
The above data was summarized from each company website listed above.
The author is not perfect, and errors can occur.
This California auto insurance company comparison chart is meant as a guide only.
Be sure and get several quotes, before buying auto insurance. There are many bogus marketing claims.
My personal thought: An innovative company might want to supply a "Quick Estimate Quote", which DOES NOT REQUIRE an email address. They would get A LOT MORE inquiries if they did this. Many, many folks are tired of email spam. If the quote is in the ball park, an interested driver could then, and only then, supply the personal information for a formal quote. If they lowball the initial quote, everyone will know about it soon enough, and develop a "bad taste" in their mouth about the company. BOTH PARTIES could benefit from such an arrangement. (It will never happen though, due to the "hook 'em and bombard 'em" mentality of the marketers). Personal privacy on the web and freedom from spam have become huge issues.
Be sure and get several quotes, before buying auto insurance. There are many bogus marketing claims.
Auto Insurance in California
21st Century Insurance Company (AIG)
Woodland Hills, CA
1-800-870-8212
874
1999
Merged with AIG auto insurance
AAA - American Automobile Association
Refuse to say - no "About"
none
1998
Must enter ZIP
14
Allstate
Northbrook, IL
1-866-621-6900
995
1997
#1 in negative comments
13,900
California State Automobile Association
San Francisco, CA
none
1996
Must enter ZIP
Eastwood Insurance
Anaheim Hills, CA
1-800-468-LESS
1999
Nor. Cal.
Esurance (White Mountains Insurance Group)
San Francisco, CA
(Bermuda)
1-800-378-7262
2000
65
Farmer's Insurance Group (Zurich Financial Services)
Los Angeles, CA
none
1,079
1997
Must enter ZIP
544
Geico (Berkshire Hathaway)
Chevy Chase, MD
1-800-861-8380
358
1997
Many TV ads
1,130
Mercury General Corp.
1,099
Uses many names
California Automobile Insurance Company
No website
Mercury Insurance Company
Los Angeles, CA (PDF)
1-800-956-3728
1998
8
Mercury Casualty Company
Los Angeles, CA
1-800-431-6654
no website
Nationwide Auto Insurance
Columbus, OH (contact)
1-877-669-6877
222
1997
"A few days"
315
Progressive Auto Insurance
Mayfield Village, OH
1-800-776-4737
454
1998
1,990
Safeco Insurance
Seattle, WA
1-800-903-0679
191
2007
446
State Farm Auto Insurance
Bloomington, IL
none
1,370
Must enter ZIP
1,980
The General Auto Insurance (General Automobile Insurance Services)
Nashville, TN
1-866-519-7422
1998
Many TV ads
Allstate seems to be the worst, regarding negative comments on the web.
Progressive and State Farm also have many negative comments.
California Auto Insurance Quote Information
(for online quote comparison purposes, liability-only for simplification)
Form Info Required
Quote Info
Entered
Low income neighborhoods pay much more
Expect to be spammed senseless
Expensive neighborhoods pay much less
Young drivers pay much more - more accidents
Male drivers pay much more - more wild
Single drivers pay much more
Experienced drivers pay far less
Accident drivers pay more, esp. if young
Drivers with traffic tickets pay more
Homeowners pay much less - more responsible
SUV drivers pay more than compact drivers
Models with high accident rates pay more
High mileage drivers pay more
"Paid for" results in paying less
In almost EVERY case, you must give ALL your personal information FIRST, or you cannot proceed. This is unfortunate, because at any point, if you don't like the subsequent questions (some are too personal), and decide to stop, they ALREADY have your personal information, so that they can spam you senseless with emails and phone calls.
That's why I don't do this, except with a throwaway email address, and false information. I refuse to become their relentlessly targeted pigeon, before I have reviewed all my other alternatives. I prefer the "soft" sell.
Disclaimer:
Many web pages claim a "List of California Auto Insurance Companies", yet not a single one actually has a list.
That's why I made this summary page - an actual list of the top California Auto Insurance Companies.
The above data was summarized from each company website listed above.
The author is not perfect, and errors can occur.
This California auto insurance company comparison chart is meant as a guide only.
Be sure and get several quotes, before buying auto insurance. There are many bogus marketing claims.
My personal thought: An innovative company might want to supply a "Quick Estimate Quote", which DOES NOT REQUIRE an email address. They would get A LOT MORE inquiries if they did this. Many, many folks are tired of email spam. If the quote is in the ball park, an interested driver could then, and only then, supply the personal information for a formal quote. If they lowball the initial quote, everyone will know about it soon enough, and develop a "bad taste" in their mouth about the company. BOTH PARTIES could benefit from such an arrangement. (It will never happen though, due to the "hook 'em and bombard 'em" mentality of the marketers). Personal privacy on the web and freedom from spam have become huge issues.
Lowering Your Auto Insurance Costs
Vehicle insurance - a cost we all must bear if we want to drive. But you might be surprised at
how varied the rates for car insurance can be in your area. Definitely shop around for your car
insurance. Don’t just go with the first agent you speak with.
Now, thanks to the internet, you can shop around right from the comfort of home. Go ahead and
get at least three price quotes from different kinds of insurance companies.
If you’re in the market for a new car, call to see how much it will cost to insure in the first place.
Having a car alarm and other anti-theft devices can help lower your costs.
Always ask about discounts. Don’t be shy. Companies expect this!
What’s my cost if I have a $500 deductible? (Increasing your deductible from $200 to $500
could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by as much as 30 percent.)
How about a $1,000 deductible? Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or
more. (Now if you don’t keep at least this much in the bank, don’t choose this option!)
If your car is worth less than 10 times the annual insurance premium, purchasing extra
coverage may not be cost effective. That’s one great thing about owning an old car!
My credit rating is excellent. I always pay my bills on time.
What if we insure more than 1 car with your company?
I haven’t had an accident in more than three years…
I haven’t had a traffic ticket in three years…
I’ve taken a driver’s training course.
My car has an anti-theft device.
I don’t put a lot of mileage on my car in a year’s time.
I carpool.
My car has air bags.
My car is quipped with anti-lock brakes.
I have daytime running lights.
I’m a student driver with good grades.
Since I have both auto and home coverage with you, do I qualify for a discount?
I’m a college student away from home…
I’ve been a long time customer…
My mom and dad use your company…
Do you offer any other discounts? Some companies offer reduced rates to drivers who get
insurance through a group plan from their employers and other professional groups. It can’t hurt
to ask.
Not every company will offer the same discounts. Compare the final prices the various
companies offer you. It pays to shop around for your car insurance!
how varied the rates for car insurance can be in your area. Definitely shop around for your car
insurance. Don’t just go with the first agent you speak with.
Now, thanks to the internet, you can shop around right from the comfort of home. Go ahead and
get at least three price quotes from different kinds of insurance companies.
If you’re in the market for a new car, call to see how much it will cost to insure in the first place.
Having a car alarm and other anti-theft devices can help lower your costs.
Always ask about discounts. Don’t be shy. Companies expect this!
What’s my cost if I have a $500 deductible? (Increasing your deductible from $200 to $500
could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by as much as 30 percent.)
How about a $1,000 deductible? Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or
more. (Now if you don’t keep at least this much in the bank, don’t choose this option!)
If your car is worth less than 10 times the annual insurance premium, purchasing extra
coverage may not be cost effective. That’s one great thing about owning an old car!
My credit rating is excellent. I always pay my bills on time.
What if we insure more than 1 car with your company?
I haven’t had an accident in more than three years…
I haven’t had a traffic ticket in three years…
I’ve taken a driver’s training course.
My car has an anti-theft device.
I don’t put a lot of mileage on my car in a year’s time.
I carpool.
My car has air bags.
My car is quipped with anti-lock brakes.
I have daytime running lights.
I’m a student driver with good grades.
Since I have both auto and home coverage with you, do I qualify for a discount?
I’m a college student away from home…
I’ve been a long time customer…
My mom and dad use your company…
Do you offer any other discounts? Some companies offer reduced rates to drivers who get
insurance through a group plan from their employers and other professional groups. It can’t hurt
to ask.
Not every company will offer the same discounts. Compare the final prices the various
companies offer you. It pays to shop around for your car insurance!
How To Choose The Right Body Shop
You don’t want to fool around when choosing a mechanic for your car. Keep an ear open for
recommendations and warnings when your friends and family have car troubles. If you know
beforehand of a body shop you feel comfortable with, you won’t need to make a rushed or
incomplete decision when you need one.
Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. I stay in touch with homeschooling
families. They’re often part of a larger group that can share recommendations for mechanics
they’ve felt were honest and reputable
Check with your local Better Business Bureau regarding the reputation of a particular body
shop. Ask about the number of complaints, if there were any, and how the complaints were
resolved. Don’t be too anxious if there were some complaints. No one pleases everybody, and
there are some people you can’t satisfy no matter what. But if you see a pattern of the same
kinds of problems, beware.
Next, pay a visit to the shop and ask if they handle your vehicle make and model. Check to see
how long they’ve been in business. What kind of feel do you get about the place? Are you
treated with courtesy? Does the staff behave professionally?
You don’t need to “white glove test” the place, but it should be neat, and organized. Also, times
are a’changin’, and modern equipment is an absolute must.
Sometimes, vehicle manufacturers recommend specific repair procedures and tools for the
repair of their vehicles. Ask if the shop is trained in these procedures and has the necessary
equipment.
Are there any civic and community service awards hanging on the walls? It’s a nice touch. Do
you see diplomas or certificates of competence? You want a technically competent staff.
Look around the place. What kinds of vehicles seem to be in the repair stage? Does everything
look like it’s being handled professionally? Don’t be shy about talking to folks in the waiting
room to see they’ve tried the shop before and how pleased they are with the service they’ve
received in the past.
My number one suggestion is to ask around and see where others have had satisfactory car
repair work done. Even if you’re feeling stressed and in a hurry, ask at least 15 people. That
way, you’re likely to get the same place mentioned more than once. A little time spent on the
basics can save you a load of trouble in the long run. And once you find mechanic you trust,
your car’s future looks a lot brighter.
recommendations and warnings when your friends and family have car troubles. If you know
beforehand of a body shop you feel comfortable with, you won’t need to make a rushed or
incomplete decision when you need one.
Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. I stay in touch with homeschooling
families. They’re often part of a larger group that can share recommendations for mechanics
they’ve felt were honest and reputable
Check with your local Better Business Bureau regarding the reputation of a particular body
shop. Ask about the number of complaints, if there were any, and how the complaints were
resolved. Don’t be too anxious if there were some complaints. No one pleases everybody, and
there are some people you can’t satisfy no matter what. But if you see a pattern of the same
kinds of problems, beware.
Next, pay a visit to the shop and ask if they handle your vehicle make and model. Check to see
how long they’ve been in business. What kind of feel do you get about the place? Are you
treated with courtesy? Does the staff behave professionally?
You don’t need to “white glove test” the place, but it should be neat, and organized. Also, times
are a’changin’, and modern equipment is an absolute must.
Sometimes, vehicle manufacturers recommend specific repair procedures and tools for the
repair of their vehicles. Ask if the shop is trained in these procedures and has the necessary
equipment.
Are there any civic and community service awards hanging on the walls? It’s a nice touch. Do
you see diplomas or certificates of competence? You want a technically competent staff.
Look around the place. What kinds of vehicles seem to be in the repair stage? Does everything
look like it’s being handled professionally? Don’t be shy about talking to folks in the waiting
room to see they’ve tried the shop before and how pleased they are with the service they’ve
received in the past.
My number one suggestion is to ask around and see where others have had satisfactory car
repair work done. Even if you’re feeling stressed and in a hurry, ask at least 15 people. That
way, you’re likely to get the same place mentioned more than once. A little time spent on the
basics can save you a load of trouble in the long run. And once you find mechanic you trust,
your car’s future looks a lot brighter.
Getting The Best Automotive Service
Just as clear communication between you and your doctor can equal better care for your body,
communicating carefully with your mechanic means the best care for your body of your car!
When you think about it, you know your car better than anyone else. You drive it every day and
know how it feels and sounds when everything is right. So don't ignore its warning signals. If
something doesn’t feel quite right, get your car checked out.
The following tips should help you along the way:
“Preventative Medicine”
Follow the recommended service schedules.
Keep a log of all repairs and service.
Check your car for:
unusual sounds
odors
drips
leaks
smoke
warning lights
changes in acceleration
changes in engine performance
changes in gas mileage
changes in fluid levels
worn tires, belts, hoses.
difficulty in handling, braking, steering
unusual vibrations
When there is a problem…
Write the information/symptoms down to give to your repairman.
When did the problem first start?
Exactly when does the problem occur?
Is it constant or does it occur now and again?
Does the problem happen when the vehicle is cold or after the engine has
warmed up?
Is the problem noticeable when you accelerate? When you brake?
At all speeds? When shifting?
Remember to let the technician diagnose and recommend a remedy, even if you think you
already know what the problem is. Plus, it’s important not to demand an on-the-spot diagnosis.
The technician needs to thoroughly examine the vehicle before knowing what’s really going on.
Stay involved. And don’t be shy about asking as many questions as you need to understand
the problem. Mechanical terminology can be confusing to the layperson.
Ask for simple definitions of technical terms you’re not familiar with.
It’s hard to be patient, as most of us feel completely incapacitated without our vehicles. Make
sure you ask to be called and informed of the problem, recommended action, and costs
BEFORE work begins.
Before you leave, ask about labor rates, guarantees, and what methods of payment are
acceptable.
Leave a telephone number where you can be called.
The information you share with your auto technician will enable him to more easily locate the
problem, diagnose it, and repair any damage. Then you and your car will be on the road again!
communicating carefully with your mechanic means the best care for your body of your car!
When you think about it, you know your car better than anyone else. You drive it every day and
know how it feels and sounds when everything is right. So don't ignore its warning signals. If
something doesn’t feel quite right, get your car checked out.
The following tips should help you along the way:
“Preventative Medicine”
Follow the recommended service schedules.
Keep a log of all repairs and service.
Check your car for:
unusual sounds
odors
drips
leaks
smoke
warning lights
changes in acceleration
changes in engine performance
changes in gas mileage
changes in fluid levels
worn tires, belts, hoses.
difficulty in handling, braking, steering
unusual vibrations
When there is a problem…
Write the information/symptoms down to give to your repairman.
When did the problem first start?
Exactly when does the problem occur?
Is it constant or does it occur now and again?
Does the problem happen when the vehicle is cold or after the engine has
warmed up?
Is the problem noticeable when you accelerate? When you brake?
At all speeds? When shifting?
Remember to let the technician diagnose and recommend a remedy, even if you think you
already know what the problem is. Plus, it’s important not to demand an on-the-spot diagnosis.
The technician needs to thoroughly examine the vehicle before knowing what’s really going on.
Stay involved. And don’t be shy about asking as many questions as you need to understand
the problem. Mechanical terminology can be confusing to the layperson.
Ask for simple definitions of technical terms you’re not familiar with.
It’s hard to be patient, as most of us feel completely incapacitated without our vehicles. Make
sure you ask to be called and informed of the problem, recommended action, and costs
BEFORE work begins.
Before you leave, ask about labor rates, guarantees, and what methods of payment are
acceptable.
Leave a telephone number where you can be called.
The information you share with your auto technician will enable him to more easily locate the
problem, diagnose it, and repair any damage. Then you and your car will be on the road again!
Buy A Car: What Not To Do
There are a lot of important considerations when buying a car, and a lot of things you can do to
make it easier for yourself. There are also a lot of things you shouldn’t do, either because it will
mess up your negotiations, or could end up more directly costing you money.
• Don’t let your car buying be an emotional choice. Just because your Uncle Bob is selling
a car, and hey, you need a car, does not necessarily mean that Uncle Bob’s old car is your best
choice. Uncle Bob may have smoked. Uncle Bob may have driven a car big enough to fit your
high school soccer team.
• Don’t give out your personal information. Especially if you are buying a car from an
individual who is selling their old car, all they need is for you to fill out the information on the
transfer papers. If they are concerned about your check, go to the back and have a certified
check done. At the car dealership, they only need numbers like your social security number if
they are going to be doing your financing, and then only once you have actually agreed to buy
the car.
• When negotiating, don’t talk too much. Once you make your offer, let it sit. Wait for them
to say something. This can be difficult, as you may feel the urge to add something onto your
offer, such as “…or maybe we could go a bit higher” when the salesperson doesn’t say
anything, but let it sit. Smile and wait for them to respond, and when they do, ask them why they
can’t meet your offer. Go through their offer fee by fee and charge by charge.
• When negotiating, the salesperson may leave his or her desk momentarily, perhaps to
talk to someone else. While they are gone, don’t say anything that you wouldn’t say in front of
the sales person.
• Don’t express excitement about the car. Sellers can sense this, and will exploit it. If you
feel like you’ve appeared too eager for the car, leave and come back another day.
• Don’t sign anything until the entire deal has been negotiated. Treat your signature as
the end of negotiating, even if it isn’t, and don’t sign until you’re willing to accept the terms – you
can make the deal conditional on an inspection
• Avoid paying a deposit. Deposits, while they may be refundable, usually aren’t. Or it’s just
very difficult to get the deposit back.
• When buying a used vehicle, don’t skimp on the background checking. Make certain
that the car does not have a lien against it.
Buying a car is a very exciting event. Avoid buyer’s remorse by researching carefully and
making certain that everything is right. Be sure that this is the right car for you and that you’ve
gotten the best possible price.
make it easier for yourself. There are also a lot of things you shouldn’t do, either because it will
mess up your negotiations, or could end up more directly costing you money.
• Don’t let your car buying be an emotional choice. Just because your Uncle Bob is selling
a car, and hey, you need a car, does not necessarily mean that Uncle Bob’s old car is your best
choice. Uncle Bob may have smoked. Uncle Bob may have driven a car big enough to fit your
high school soccer team.
• Don’t give out your personal information. Especially if you are buying a car from an
individual who is selling their old car, all they need is for you to fill out the information on the
transfer papers. If they are concerned about your check, go to the back and have a certified
check done. At the car dealership, they only need numbers like your social security number if
they are going to be doing your financing, and then only once you have actually agreed to buy
the car.
• When negotiating, don’t talk too much. Once you make your offer, let it sit. Wait for them
to say something. This can be difficult, as you may feel the urge to add something onto your
offer, such as “…or maybe we could go a bit higher” when the salesperson doesn’t say
anything, but let it sit. Smile and wait for them to respond, and when they do, ask them why they
can’t meet your offer. Go through their offer fee by fee and charge by charge.
• When negotiating, the salesperson may leave his or her desk momentarily, perhaps to
talk to someone else. While they are gone, don’t say anything that you wouldn’t say in front of
the sales person.
• Don’t express excitement about the car. Sellers can sense this, and will exploit it. If you
feel like you’ve appeared too eager for the car, leave and come back another day.
• Don’t sign anything until the entire deal has been negotiated. Treat your signature as
the end of negotiating, even if it isn’t, and don’t sign until you’re willing to accept the terms – you
can make the deal conditional on an inspection
• Avoid paying a deposit. Deposits, while they may be refundable, usually aren’t. Or it’s just
very difficult to get the deposit back.
• When buying a used vehicle, don’t skimp on the background checking. Make certain
that the car does not have a lien against it.
Buying a car is a very exciting event. Avoid buyer’s remorse by researching carefully and
making certain that everything is right. Be sure that this is the right car for you and that you’ve
gotten the best possible price.
Buy A Car: Make A Visual Inspection
When shopping for a used car, it is important to be able to recognize the signs of a potential
lemon. A visual inspection can be enough to steer you away from a bad deal. It should not
replace a proper inspection by a qualified mechanic, but the visual inspection can tell you if you
should continue to that point.
The first thing to consider is whether the odometer is reasonable. The average car is driven
about 15,000 miles each year. Now the world may be filled with little old ladies who only used
their car to drive to church on Sundays, but there are also those who will roll back the odometer
to try to get a higher price. If the mileage seems low, check to see if the dashboard shows any
sign of tampering, like scratches or missing or mismatched screws. Check the wear of the
driver’s seat and floor mat as well as the steering wheel and pedals. Does the amount of wear
seem to match the reported mileage? Try to find an oil change sticker and see if the information
on it matches the odometer.
Every vehicle has a unique VIN, or vehicle identification number. You can use this number to
obtain a vehicle history report. This report will be able to tell you the vehicle's complete history,
including its place of assembly, accident, repair, and odometer history, whether the vehicle has
been leased or used as a rental car or taxi and whether there is a lien paced against it.
Before purchasing the report, however, it is a good idea to check to see if you have the correct
VIN. The VIN can be found in three places, on the vehicle registration card, on the bottom of
the windshield on the driver’s side and on the manufacturer’s label, which is usually found on
the driver’s side door or door jam. Check that the VIN is in all three places and is the same.
Also, check to see if any of the labels show signs of tampering. A missing or altered VIN is a
sign that the vehicle may be stolen.
Next you should look for signs that the vehicle has had bodywork done. These signs include
paint splatter or over spray in the seams between panels, areas where the paint doesn’t match
or feels rough to the touch, and bumps, dents, or ripples in the paint. Recent bodywork is
evidence that the car has been in an accident.
Other things you should look for in a visual inspection include signs of rust, leaking fluids and
excessive tire wear (tires may be expensive to replace, especially immediately after purchasing
a vehicle). Also check the condition of the interior. Make sure that the lights and signals have
not burned out, and that all the switches and fittings work as they are supposed to. Your goal in
doing a visual inspection should be to find that the vehicle appears to have been properly
maintained. If everything looks good at this point, you can ask to take the vehicle to a mechanic
for a proper inspection.
lemon. A visual inspection can be enough to steer you away from a bad deal. It should not
replace a proper inspection by a qualified mechanic, but the visual inspection can tell you if you
should continue to that point.
The first thing to consider is whether the odometer is reasonable. The average car is driven
about 15,000 miles each year. Now the world may be filled with little old ladies who only used
their car to drive to church on Sundays, but there are also those who will roll back the odometer
to try to get a higher price. If the mileage seems low, check to see if the dashboard shows any
sign of tampering, like scratches or missing or mismatched screws. Check the wear of the
driver’s seat and floor mat as well as the steering wheel and pedals. Does the amount of wear
seem to match the reported mileage? Try to find an oil change sticker and see if the information
on it matches the odometer.
Every vehicle has a unique VIN, or vehicle identification number. You can use this number to
obtain a vehicle history report. This report will be able to tell you the vehicle's complete history,
including its place of assembly, accident, repair, and odometer history, whether the vehicle has
been leased or used as a rental car or taxi and whether there is a lien paced against it.
Before purchasing the report, however, it is a good idea to check to see if you have the correct
VIN. The VIN can be found in three places, on the vehicle registration card, on the bottom of
the windshield on the driver’s side and on the manufacturer’s label, which is usually found on
the driver’s side door or door jam. Check that the VIN is in all three places and is the same.
Also, check to see if any of the labels show signs of tampering. A missing or altered VIN is a
sign that the vehicle may be stolen.
Next you should look for signs that the vehicle has had bodywork done. These signs include
paint splatter or over spray in the seams between panels, areas where the paint doesn’t match
or feels rough to the touch, and bumps, dents, or ripples in the paint. Recent bodywork is
evidence that the car has been in an accident.
Other things you should look for in a visual inspection include signs of rust, leaking fluids and
excessive tire wear (tires may be expensive to replace, especially immediately after purchasing
a vehicle). Also check the condition of the interior. Make sure that the lights and signals have
not burned out, and that all the switches and fittings work as they are supposed to. Your goal in
doing a visual inspection should be to find that the vehicle appears to have been properly
maintained. If everything looks good at this point, you can ask to take the vehicle to a mechanic
for a proper inspection.
Buy A Car: Should You Trade In Your Old Car?
Trading in your old car often knocks quite a bit off the purchase price of your new car, and can
be a convenient way to get rid of your old car at the same time, without having to go the hassle
of finding someone to buy it. Trading in a car, however, tends to give the most advantage to the
dealership, as they will pay you the wholesale price or less for your used car and will sell the
used car for retail price or more. Their profit margin is often higher on the traded in car than on
the new cars they sell.
A trade-in can still be to your advantage, as many states calculate the sales tax on the new car
as the price of the new car minus the trade-in value, so you would be paying less tax. Not all
states do this, so you should check – any dealership in your state will know what your state’s tax
policy on trade-ins is.
Another option you may wish to look into if you don’t want to privately sell your car is to sell your
car back to its own dealership. If your car is a Volkswagen, and you’re buying a Toyota, sell
your car back to the Volkswagen dealership. You may be able to get more for it than you could
from the Toyota dealership, because a Volkswagen is worth more to a Volkswagen dealership
than it is to a Toyota dealership.
To find out the value of your car, you can ask your insurance agency. They have access to the
Kelly Blue Book, which you may also be able to get a hold of, which tells the values of each car
based on its model and year. You can also look online to find cars of similar makes and
compare prices and mileage. Make sure you know all of this information before you go to tradein
or sell your used car.
A small but important detail when looking to trade-in or sell your used car is cleanliness. Before
you take the car in, spend a bit of time removing all of your personal belongings, vacuuming the
car, and airing it out. As a bonus, you may find some coins in the cushions. A professional detail
job may also increase the perceived value of your car. A clean car can sell for a couple of
hundred dollars more than a messy car, and dealers are people too. They too are affected by
the appearance of a car, even if they will detail the car again before they put it out onto their lot.
Trade-ins can make your new car buying experience easier. You won’t have to worry about
what to do with your old car, and it definitely feels better to have a lower price on your new car.
But don’t forget that you paid money for your old car, too, and you deserve some of the value.
Also, don’t let a trade-in damage your negotiating power – try to keep the negotiating about the
trade-in separate from your negotiations about the purchase price of the new car.
be a convenient way to get rid of your old car at the same time, without having to go the hassle
of finding someone to buy it. Trading in a car, however, tends to give the most advantage to the
dealership, as they will pay you the wholesale price or less for your used car and will sell the
used car for retail price or more. Their profit margin is often higher on the traded in car than on
the new cars they sell.
A trade-in can still be to your advantage, as many states calculate the sales tax on the new car
as the price of the new car minus the trade-in value, so you would be paying less tax. Not all
states do this, so you should check – any dealership in your state will know what your state’s tax
policy on trade-ins is.
Another option you may wish to look into if you don’t want to privately sell your car is to sell your
car back to its own dealership. If your car is a Volkswagen, and you’re buying a Toyota, sell
your car back to the Volkswagen dealership. You may be able to get more for it than you could
from the Toyota dealership, because a Volkswagen is worth more to a Volkswagen dealership
than it is to a Toyota dealership.
To find out the value of your car, you can ask your insurance agency. They have access to the
Kelly Blue Book, which you may also be able to get a hold of, which tells the values of each car
based on its model and year. You can also look online to find cars of similar makes and
compare prices and mileage. Make sure you know all of this information before you go to tradein
or sell your used car.
A small but important detail when looking to trade-in or sell your used car is cleanliness. Before
you take the car in, spend a bit of time removing all of your personal belongings, vacuuming the
car, and airing it out. As a bonus, you may find some coins in the cushions. A professional detail
job may also increase the perceived value of your car. A clean car can sell for a couple of
hundred dollars more than a messy car, and dealers are people too. They too are affected by
the appearance of a car, even if they will detail the car again before they put it out onto their lot.
Trade-ins can make your new car buying experience easier. You won’t have to worry about
what to do with your old car, and it definitely feels better to have a lower price on your new car.
But don’t forget that you paid money for your old car, too, and you deserve some of the value.
Also, don’t let a trade-in damage your negotiating power – try to keep the negotiating about the
trade-in separate from your negotiations about the purchase price of the new car.
Buy A Car: Should You Buy Online?
There can be many advantages to buying a new or used car online. The internet, of course, is a
useful resource when you begin your car buying journey, regardless of where you decide to buy
your car – you can compare makes and models and determine what kind of car you want before
heading to the dealership. This is important because car salespeople will often try to sell you
what they want to sell you, not necessarily the car you want. (This can be especially true of
used car salespeople – who has not been to a used car lot and told that hey, this may not have
been the exact car you wanted, but look at what a nice color it is?)
For many people, the advantages of the internet can go one step further and they decide to buy
a car online. When buying a car online, it can be difficult to do things like a visual inspection or a
test drive, so an important thing is to buy from a website that is reputable. Read the feedback
that other people have left. Go to car websites or message boards and try to talk to people who
have bought cars online, to compare their experiences with different websites. Buying a car
online can offer advantages such as the greater choice in make, model, and color you can have
over going to a dealership, especially in used cars.
Remember that even over the internet, salespeople are still salespeople. Just because the voice
and face on your webcam are pleasant and you want to be nice, remember to act the same as
you would if you were at the dealership. Ask questions, and do your research.
Be certain that even after the car is shipped, there is a way you can return the car. If you need
to return the car, you may end up paying some of the shipping costs. Be sure to budget for this,
as you do not want to be reluctant to return a car that is not perfect for your needs.
Many people have happily bought and sold cars online. If you decide to buy a car online, make
sure you are one of the happy buyers by doing your research, choosing the right car for you,
and buying from a reputable website where there is a venue for complaints.
useful resource when you begin your car buying journey, regardless of where you decide to buy
your car – you can compare makes and models and determine what kind of car you want before
heading to the dealership. This is important because car salespeople will often try to sell you
what they want to sell you, not necessarily the car you want. (This can be especially true of
used car salespeople – who has not been to a used car lot and told that hey, this may not have
been the exact car you wanted, but look at what a nice color it is?)
For many people, the advantages of the internet can go one step further and they decide to buy
a car online. When buying a car online, it can be difficult to do things like a visual inspection or a
test drive, so an important thing is to buy from a website that is reputable. Read the feedback
that other people have left. Go to car websites or message boards and try to talk to people who
have bought cars online, to compare their experiences with different websites. Buying a car
online can offer advantages such as the greater choice in make, model, and color you can have
over going to a dealership, especially in used cars.
Remember that even over the internet, salespeople are still salespeople. Just because the voice
and face on your webcam are pleasant and you want to be nice, remember to act the same as
you would if you were at the dealership. Ask questions, and do your research.
Be certain that even after the car is shipped, there is a way you can return the car. If you need
to return the car, you may end up paying some of the shipping costs. Be sure to budget for this,
as you do not want to be reluctant to return a car that is not perfect for your needs.
Many people have happily bought and sold cars online. If you decide to buy a car online, make
sure you are one of the happy buyers by doing your research, choosing the right car for you,
and buying from a reputable website where there is a venue for complaints.
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