by Admin | Dec 4, 2020 | Used Cars |
Ford Pinto has one of the worst reputations in history. It is globally known as an explosive deathtrap. But what makes the Ford Pinto considered one of the worst? Just how bad was the Ford Pinto?
A Faulty Fuel Tank
The big and powerful cars were the mainstay of the US’s top automotive manufacturers during the 1960s. Unfortunately, the small and inexpensive vehicles imported into the United States started to gain traction, which rattled the big boys in the industry.
The Ford Pinto was hurriedly designed to compete with the inexpensive imports.
Ford put the fuel tank just behind the rear bumper, and this design flaw had grave consequences. Well, 8 out of the 11 crash tests experienced a fuel tank rupture that spilled fuel all over the vehicle. Despite this glaring flaw, Ford Pinto went into production and was launched in 1970.
In May of 1972, a Ford Pinto burst into flames when struck from behind at low speed, bursting into flames and killing Lilly Gray, the driver. Richard Grimshaw, the passenger, was left with 3rd-degree burns. Another high-profile crash would occur in August 1978, killing three girls.
Other Design Problems
The rushed development with cost-cutting in mind led to other problems. For example, the Ford Pinto had uncomfortable seats, and driving over long distances was a tiring experience. At the time, the 20 mpg fuel consumption was decent. However, it was too uncomfortable, and the fuel efficiency didn’t matter the most.
The over-ambitious cost-cutting and rushed development was to blame for the fatal flaw in the Ford Pinto. It was not only harsh and bumpy to ride over long distances, but dangerous, as well, in case of a crash. As a result, the Ford Pinto easily earns its place as one of the worst motor vehicles ever produced.
Did you own a Pinto back in the day? What did you think about the car?
by Admin | Sep 20, 2020 | Used Cars
Buying a used car comes with its risks, but that does not mean you cannot get the most bang for your buck. Every vehicle has wear and tear, but it’s a little bit more for the used car. Exercise due diligence through basic inspection and take the car for a test drive.
Here are Some of the Mistakes Used Car Buyers Make
Not having a Mechanic Check the Vehicle
A handful of people will not have a mechanic check the used car they are buying. Mostly, it’s an attempt to avoid paying the inspection fees. However, having the vehicle inspected could save you a nice chunk of change in the long run.
Besides, it is possible to make the seller pay for the fees. In most dealerships, the inspection is part of the package.
Not Taking the Car for a Test Drive
A percentage of used car buyers forego a test drive before the purchase, and that more than often comes back to bite them. The buyer’s remorse kicks in when functionality fails to match the aesthetics of the vehicle.
A used car is an opportunity to live economically, but you have to be careful before the purchase. Make sure the vehicle is running properly by taking it for a test drive.
Making the Initial Negotiations Face-to-Face
It is always an easy sell for the salesman if you go down to the dealership by yourself. The salesman will do their job to make sure that you leave the dealership with a car. Mostly, you’re no match for the skills they use to convince you.
To prevent this, do your research over the internet, make comparisons, and negotiate through email or cell phone. Maintaining some distance with the dealership places you on a better platform when negotiating. You can easily walk away when the vehicle is not up to your standards.
When dealing with a private seller, flaunt some knowledge on the market to gain the upper hand. Chances are they are not professional salespeople and are much easier to convince.
by Admin | Sep 4, 2020 | Used Cars
To get the best bang for your buck, it is critical to do extensive research on the used-car offerings in your area. Even though a prospective seller may not match the lowest price you find, it puts you on better ground when negotiating.
But the price is not the only thing that you should dig deep into before settling on a particular unit. The history report of the used car is as essential.
Why a History Report is Important
A history report will uncover the number of previous owners, mechanical issues, and prior accidents, among others. In most cases, the dealership pays for the third-party service as a package. But if you are dealing with a private seller, you may need to foot the bill yourself.
The issue of depreciation can be depressing for vehicle owners, but it also presents an opportunity for the used car buyer. For example, the vehicle loses about 20% of its value within the first year. It depreciates about 40% after three years.
This is essential information for the buyer for effective negotiations. The manufacturer’s warranty may still cover a vehicle that is one to three years older, and that’s a good thing. Unless such a car has been subject to a significant amount of abuse, it can still give you some good years of service.
Finding a Good Used Car
The used car marketplace is vast, and you should not limit yourself to a particular dealership based on one thing or another. Most people don’t know that low mileage late-model vehicles are affordable and offer quality that is at the same level as new cars.
In most cases, the later models in car dealerships will qualify for the balance of factory warranty. For an additional cost, it may be eligible for an extended warranty, and that is music to the ears of the used car buyer.
