Questions Auto Dealers Should Answer

Car buying is not an easy task to do, especially if you are looking for a used car. Thus, there are certain questions, you as a used car buyer, should ask the dealer. And accordingly, there are certain questions auto dealers should answer.

Following are the main questions that the dealers are obliged to give answers to:

1. What is the history of the vehicle?

The used car dealer is obligated by the law to disclose all known facts about the vehicle's history. If the vehicle's odometer is rolled back or the vehicle is previously flooded or salvaged, then the dealer must inform the used car buyer about it, otherwise he/she may have to face the law for misrepresenting vehicle.

2. Can I get the VIN?

Knowing the VIN of the car will give you the chance to examine the car's history by yourself. You can enter the Vehicle Identification Number in such websites as, for example, Autocheck or CarFax and get all the needed information for just a little sum of money.

3. Who certified the vehicle?

Used cars that are sold at renowned dealerships usually undergo different vehicle certification programs. During these programs, certain car parts are being examined by skilled mechanics and if there happen to be some faults with the cars, those faults are fixed and the problematic parts are replaced. However, the bad news is that there is no set criteria for vehicle certifications and different manufacturers certify vehicles in a different way. The auto dealer though is required to disclose all known facts about the used car certification process to the potential buyers.

4. How long of a test drive can I have?

All of us know that a test drive is a necessary part in a car purchase. Test drives do not last long, but if you are dealing with a used vehicle, then it may be easier for you to persuade the dealer to let you take the car for a good while. The dealer may allow you to take the vehicle for a longer test drive provided that you do not put more than 100 miles on it. Also, make sure you bring the car back with a full tank in case you have taken it with a full tank.

5. Will you provide me with a warranty?

New vehicles come with original manufacturer warranties. Used vehicles that are sold at high-ranking auto dealerships also come with some kind of a warranty or a service contract. Thus, make sure that the dealer sells the vehicle with a warranty and not "as is."

How to Ship a Car Through an Auto Transport Service

When we talk car shipment, the words "convenience" and "efficiency" immediately spring to mind. For these are the very forces driving the auto shipping industry today. It's ironic though, as automobiles themselves were created as a means of transport, yet at some point, they need to be physically transported without being driven, for a variety of reasons. The car shipping industry has experienced massive growth since the conceiving of the internet. People purchase cars from anywhere in the world and have it conveniently and safely shipped to their homes.

Generally, there are some steps involved that are good to know when having your vehicle moved. Know that you're completely responsible for "readying-up" your car or vehicle for shipment. This will help ensure the shipment process from the company's end goes smoothly. You may also want to get a heads up on tips your vehicle shipping service may be able to provide. Car shipping really isn't a hassle at all, provided you've done your homework.

Your car insurance company might be willing to provide coverage while it's being moved. Go ahead and check with your insurance company to verify whether your car insurance carries over to the auto shipping company or not. Though it must be noted a handful of auto shipping companies insure vehicles during transport. However, items left in the car are not insured. Your home policy may cover those items; you can check with your home insurance agent. It is good practice to always ensure there are no valuable or personal items left in the car.

Companies usually offer several modes of shipment. This is governed by the time you have or the time you're willing to allow for the vehicle to be moved, how much you want to pay and the location etc. The common type of service typically involves door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal shipping and offers savings over other chosen channels or methods. Most companies transport vehicles in an open carrier. You may have come across a few while driving down the highway. Vehicles transported this way are of course visible under the open sky; weather and other conditions might get them unusually dirty.

Many car owners are rather protective of their vehicles and they should be. Some companies are willing to use plastic wrap or heavy tarps to protect vehicles from weather and open air-related elements. You can always choose to opt for an enclosed one altogether, since you're not only getting protection from weather and road related elements, but there's also the benefit of added protection and safety.

Keep in mind when you're transporting a priceless exotic car, supercar, or even a classic one, extra care and experience are required on the shipping company's part. Only trust a company that has had a proven track record and history of safely and effectively moving really expensive and high-end cars.
Vehicle shipping companies are rarely able to provide an exact pick-up and delivery time. This is only normal, considering there may be unforeseen problems such as heavy traffic or breakdowns. Again, what you can do is be patient and make adequate preparation pre-shipping, to make sure your vehicle is delivered in a timely manner.