Monthly Archives: January 2017

a salesman talking to a couple at a dealership

Pros and Cons of “Buy Here Pay Here” Dealerships

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Posted in Car Buying, Car Selling

If you are in the market for a certified pre-owned vehicle, check out our Used Car Buyer’s Guide first. After setting your budget and deciding whether to buy from a private seller or a dealership, the next step is deciding what kind of dealership to buy from.

What Are “Buy Here Pay Here” Car Lots?

Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) car lots distinguish themselves from other used car lots because BHPH dealerships offer on-site financing.

If you have bad credit, no credit, or in bankruptcy, you may find BHPH dealerships to be your best option. Even if you have good credit or don’t need financing, BHPH dealerships offer great deals on certified pre-owned vehicles.

While “buy here pay here” financing may be your only way to obtain a vehicle of your own, make sure you do your due diligence and make an educated decision beforehand (See: How to Buy a Used Car on Bad Credit).

Buy Here Pay Here lots have to abide by stricter laws since they are also effectively a finance company. Any BHPH lot that does not follow state and federal rules and regulations will not be in business for very long.

For example, all BHPH dealerships will have to follow the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), which requires the dealer/financier to disclose the final cash price, the amount financed, in addition to other necessary information for the consumer to shop and compare.

Other laws and regulations include the Fair & Accurate Credit Transaction Act, State Usury laws, and the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act.

Buy Here Pay Here Pros

In-House Financing

The first obvious advantage of BHPH dealerships is the ability to purchase and set up loan payments at the same place. Instead of getting an auto loan from a bank or another third party, you’ll be able to get everything done at the dealership.

Your payment plan will either be weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. Get an idea of what your monthly payment will be using our Auto Loan Calculator.

Often, your BHPH dealer will be able to match up your pay dates with your job to make it as easy as possible to make payments on time and build up your credit score.

If you have no credit, bad credit, or are in post-bankruptcy, getting loan approval can be difficult. While annual percentage rates may depend on your credit score, Auto Simple accepts all credit situations including bad credit and no credit. This can be a great way to build up your credit at the same time.

Don’t believe people who say you’ll be paying 30% interest or the maximum allowed by law. Many BHPH lots offer interest rates in the range of 15% to 20%. Auto Simple offers interest rates as low as 14.9% to qualified buyers.*

Get pre-approved for financing by completing our secure online credit application.

Transaction specifics will be unique to you so make sure you review all the paperwork and finance information before you sign anything.

48-Hour Return Policy

When you buy from a private seller, you give up the chance to return the vehicle if you aren’t satisfied (along with a host of other buyer securities). When you buy a car from a BHPH car lot on the other hand, you are given a short return period to drive and test your purchase.

At Auto Simple, and at many other BHPH lots, a full 48-hour return period comes with every vehicle purchase. Make sure you go over this information with your dealer before signing any papers. No-Return policies raise red flags.

48 hours should give you enough time to drive your new vehicle through a variety of road conditions and even compare it with other cars and deals. There is absolutely no obligation to accept the offer if you are within the 48-hour timeframe.

Trade-In Deals (Buy Here Sell Here)

Trading in a used car is an easy way to kill two birds with one stone. If you are looking to trade in an older vehicle for a newer one, Auto Simple offers top dollar for pre-owned cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. Our appraisals are good for 7 days.*

By selling (or trading in) your old car at a BHPH dealership, you can save a lot of time and money. We don’t know about other BHPH lots, but at Auto Simple, we make it extremely easy (See: How to Sell a Used Car to a Dealership).

Just fill out this form and we’ll send you an estimated appraisal within 48 hours.*

Curious to know how much money you can save by trading in your gas guzzler for a more fuel efficient vehicle? Calculate your fuel savings with our Gas Savings Calculator.

Free CarFax Report

Another advantage of going with a BHPH dealership is access to free CarFax reports on all vehicles.

Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles and Thorough Inspections

A certified pre-owned car is one that has undergone a full inspection and any necessary repairs as specified by the automaker. CPO vehicles are often in “like-new” condition. They may cost more, but often come with additional warranties and roadside assistance (like our 6 Month/6000 Mile Powertrain Warranty), one of the main reasons why it’s a smart idea to buy from a BHPH dealership.

While we can’t speak for other dealerships, the in-house mechanics at Auto Simple put every single vehicle through a 180-point quality inspection. This is the largest inspection any of our mechanics have ever been exposed to. We make sure to fix everything from gaskets to transmissions and everything in between.

We are able to inspect, fix, and test all of the cars on our lot because we have all of our services on-site. We control the quality levels and meticulously recondition the vehicles to ensure we meet, and hopefully exceed, all of your expectations.

Warranties

Most used car dealerships offer warranties on used cars, such as Auto Simple‘s 6 Month/6,000 Mile Powertrain Warranty on All Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles. This comes in addition to any original manufacturer warranties.

Call and ask about warranty information beforehand and make sure you get everything in writing.

Quick and Easy Process

All BHPH vehicles are normally in a database that is connected to the DMV for fast and smooth transactions. BHPH dealers may also be able to work with you to clear any existing loans you may have taken out (this depends on location, lender, and other factors).

Auto Simple makes the car buying process easy. You can get started without even leaving your couch:

  1. Get Pre-Approved Online
  2. Search Online Inventory
  3. We Help You Find the Right Vehicle
  4. Drive It Using Our Private Track for Test Driving
  5. Buy with Confidence (See: Customer Confidence Program)

Although you may have to sign on a dotted line or two, all the paperwork is typically handled by the dealership. Most of our customers are able to drive away in their dream car the very same day.

Buy Here Pay Here Cons

Limited Inventory

Although BHPH lots carry a lot different makes and models, you are restricted to what they have available in their inventory. Shop online inventories and call the location before making the trip.

Higher Interest Rates

If you have good or excellent credit, a different lender will probably provide a lower interest rate than a BHPH financier.

But despite the unreasonably high interest rates you may have heard about BHPH lots, Auto Simple offers interest rates as low as 14.9% to qualified buyers.* Get pre-approved online and contact our financing department for more information.

Wherever you get your loan, make sure you take the information home and carefully look it over before you sign anything. Remember, this contract will potentially stay in effect for years. This isn’t an iTunes update—you want to make sure you know the exact terms and agreements.

We also recommend looking up the dealership online with the Better Business Bureau and any local consumer affairs offices. Check how long they have been in business and online testimonials. Basically, just do your research and you’ll have no problem finding a great car at an affordable price.

Hidden Fees

Not all dealerships are as upfront with you about the total costs involved in your transaction. Don’t assume they will tell you. Look over all of the paperwork carefully and check for:

  • administration and handling fees
  • the price matches the price you agreed to
  • inspection or detailing fees
  • delivery fees

Make sure you know what your payments will be be, how much the interest is, and when the payments end.

Additionally, your BHPH dealership may not report your payment history to the Credit Bureaus.

While most dealers will automatically submit your payment information to credit agencies (like Auto Simple), don’t assume this is being done. Ask the dealership what their policy is on credit reporting so you can start rebuilding your credit.

Conclusion:

Buy Here Pay Here dealerships offer a wide selection of certified pre-owned vehicles and specialize in providing auto loans to people with negative credit. If you need a quality vehicle and need to build up your credit, you can kill two birds with one stone at a BHPH dealership.

Individual perks, however, vary from dealership to dealership. Make sure you do your homework first. Below you will find some of our competitive offerings.

Auto Simple PERKS

https://youtu.be/BzJ9717ps1Y

Most of the “buy here pay here” advantages listed above can be found at any BHPH dealership. There are, however, many benefits we offer on top of the aforementioned “pros.” If you do end up choosing to buy or sell a used vehicle at a Buy Here Pay Here dealership, we hope you choose one of our locations in Tennessee or our brand-new lot in Dalton, VA.

Here are some of the specific perks we offer to all of our customers:

  • Free CarFax for All Vehicles
  • 6 Month / 6000 Mile Powertrain Warranty
  • Low Down Payments
  • Large Inventory of Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
  • Thorough 180-Point Quality Inspection
  • Preferred Customer Program
  • Meticulously Reconditioned Vehicles
  • Hassle-Free Financing
  • FREE Conventional Oil Changes Every 90 Days*
  • Short-Term Financing
  • Low-Mileage Vehicles
  • Fast Credit Approval
  • Weekly, Bi-weekly, and Monthly Payments

We take great pride in taking control over the entire buying, selling, inspection, and testing process. All of our vehicles go through a rigorous 180-point quality inspection.

We offer affordable prices and low down payments. Many of our customers drive away in their dream car for as low as $499 down.

Free Oil Changes

Simply sign up for recurring payments from your checking account and get FREE oil changes every 90 days for as long as you are paying off your loan.*

$200 Referral Program

When you refer a friend who purchases a vehicle from Auto Simple, you will earn a $200 credit on your account.

Tax Refund Special

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rX4HHCZC2wY

If you bring in your estimated tax refund, you can sign and drive away with your new car and we may defer your down payment.

Our tax refund special makes it easy for you to Sign & Drive. Stop on by one of our locations and say “Hi.” Read our testimonials to get an idea of how we treat our customers.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to speak with one of our Online Specialists or give us a call:

Chattanooga, TN – (423) 551-3600

Cleveland, TN – (423) 476-4600

Dayton, TN – (423) 775-4600

Dalton, GA – (423) 775-4600

Follow us on social media for more useful information on buying, selling, and maintaining used cars: Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Google+.

one hand giving car keys to another

How to Sell a Used Car to a Dealership

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Posted in Car Buying, Car Selling

Moving to a new city? Need some extra cash? Looking to upgrade your vehicle? Whatever your circumstance, selling a used car is not as simple as it looks. It takes time, energy, and usually, money. Decisions need to be made and steps taken.

Luckily, you can make the process a lot simpler if you decide to sell to a dealership. You won’t have to research the market, set prices, advertise, or spend time showing the car and dealing with all the back and forth involved with a private buyer.

Time is money. If you value your time, then you’ll agree that selling to a dealership is a lot simpler and overall, cheaper than selling to a private buyer. And, if you are looking to buy a new car, you cannot beat the convenience and affordability of trade-in values at dealerships. Whether you are selling your car for cold hard cash or are looking for a trade-in deal, speak with us first.*

While some factors may be out of your control (location, market, etc.), these steps and techniques for selling your car will increase your odds of success.

Steps for selling your vehicle to a private buyer:

  1. Determine the vehicle’s worth

Use multiple resources such as Kelley Blue Book, NADA Guides, and Autotrader. If you have a junk car, you may be better off donating it.

  1. Gather the paperwork

This includes the title, maintenance records, bill of sale, release of liability, warranty documents, and as-is documentation.

  1. Get the car ready

Clean the car inside and out. Shine the exterior, vacuum the interior, replace any damaged floor mats, and clean rims and tires. Or, go with a professional car detailer.

  1. Take pictures

You should have high-quality images from multiple angles for your advertisement. This includes, all sides of the exterior, front and back seat, trunk, dashboard, carpets, wheels, and engine.

  1. Find a place to advertise

There are many options available to you, some better than others. You’ll want to compare among the following advertising methods: social media, “for sale” window signs, newspapers and other print media, craigslist, eBay, cars.com, autotrader.com, Kelley Blue Book, and Beepi.

  1. Create an ad

Creating a good ad that will get a response takes some time and effort. You want to come across as a trustworthy person who has taken care of their car. At the absolute minimum, you’ll want to make sure that you include the price, mileage, modifications, VIN number, and the number of owners.

  1. Screen potential buyers

This is probably the most time-consuming part of the process. You can help eliminate the number of false leads by choosing carefully where and how you are advertising your vehicle. Regardless of where the potential buyer comes from, you’ll want to verify their full name, clarify acceptable forms of payment, only accept full payment, and determine if the buyer is in the area.

  1. Give your sales pitch

You’ll have to bring out your inner salesperson to pitch your car to prospective buyers.

  1. Negotiate the sale price

If you are set on the price, stand firm. Most private car buyers, however, are expecting to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to counter-offer to get a price you both agree on. Write down your lowest acceptable price and never go lower than that.

  1. Finalize the sale

You’ll need to do a couple of things before you can successfully transfer ownership to another person. The sale isn’t complete until you complete a title transfer. You may also need a bill of sale, depending on what state you are in. After payment is accepted and the bill of sale completed, you need to sign over the title, fill out a Release of Liability (if required), provide warranty documents (if applicable), maintenance records, and any additional paperwork your state may require.

Don’t forget to hand over the keys and remove your vehicle from your insurance policy.

– steps via DMV.org

How to Sell Your Vehicle to a Dealership

In contrast, here are the steps for selling your car to a dealership:

  1. Bring your car, truck, or SUV into one of our locations (Chattanooga, Dalton, Cleveland, or Dayton)

  2. We’ll give you a free appraisal

  3. Sell us your car

We don’t know about other dealerships, but at Auto Simple, we make it as easy as 1-2-3. Yes, it’s that easy. You’ll avoid all the hassle of paperwork, dealing with multiple buyers, and waiting for payment.

What Is My Vehicle Worth?

If you want an estimated appraisal before you bring in your vehicle, we do that too! Simply fill out this form and we’ll send you an estimated appraisal within 48 hours.

Even though selling your car at Auto Simple saves you a lot of inconvenience and annoyance, you still want to get a good deal. Here are some insider secrets to get top-dollar for your vehicle:

  1. Bring in your vehicle

While it may seem obvious not to bring in a filthy vehicle that still has last week’s fast food in the back, other things are not so self-evident. Before you get your used car, truck or SUV appraised, take the time to go through these steps:

Clean the car inside and out.

Read this WikiHow article for tips on detailing your car before bringing it in for sale. Sometimes, however, the job is too big for one car owner. In this case, it may be best to take your car into a professional detailer. It may cost you around $100, but you’ll almost definitely make this money back. Besides the beautiful result of professional detailing, you’ll also send a message that you’ve been taking good care of your vehicle.

Here are some quick tips for cleaning your vehicle before sale:

  • Take everything out of the vehicle.
  • Clean the inside and outside.
  • Top off fluids (oil, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, etc.)
  • Get rid of the smell (use this WikiHow article)

Take vehicle into a mechanic.

You will want to find out what’s wrong with your car before the dealership does. Make sure your inspection is thorough. Typically, a thorough inspection will cost around $100. If it’s less than $75, it’s probably not good enough.

By inspecting the car first, you’ll have some extra documentation and be able to disclose the findings. This builds trust and confidence. Additionally, you’ll have a second opinion to compare against the mechanic who does the inspection for the buyer.

Bring in all the documentation you can.

Gather copies of all of your vehicle’s maintenance records. If you don’t have them, you may be able to call your local mechanic for copies (usually for a fee).

Determine a price.

There are several ways to get a suggested sales price for your car. We recommend checking out Kelly Blue Book and some private-party sales of cars that are the same make and model as yours. Set a reasonable sale price, but be prepared to lower it a bit and you’ll be happy with the end result.

  1. We’ll give you a free appraisal

After you have prepped your vehicle for sale, bring it into one of our dealerships. We have mechanics and appraisers on the spot so you can get your quote the very same day.* The offer will be valid for 7 days.

Bring documentation and paperwork.

Don’t forget to bring the following:

  • Your vehicle’s title (or payoff information)
  • Valid and current vehicle registration (verifies you are the owner)
  • Government issued photo ID
  • All keys and remotes (if damaged or missing, your offer may be adjusted)
  • Maintenance records (recommended but not required)

Feel free to download our checklist before you arrive.

If for any reason you don’t have your title or the titleholder is unable to make it, give us a call before you arrive: 1-877-794-ACAR

  1. Sell us your car

If you like our offer, you can sell us your car and get paid on the spot.* It’s that easy! There’s no pressure or obligation. If you want to sell your car easy and fast, Auto Simple is your simplest and best choice.

Buy Here Sell Here—We Buy Cars! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmN3_wa-8M0

*Contact us for further details.

Auto Simple wants to make your car sale as easy and painless as possible. Fill out our online vehicle appraisal form and give us a call for more information on selling your car

Chattanooga, TN – (423) 551-3600

Cleveland, TN – (423) 476-4600

Dayton, TN – (423) 775-4600

Dalton, GA – (706) 217-CARS (2277)

Follow us on social media for more useful information on buying, selling, and maintaining cars: Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Google+.

17 Things You Should Have in the Car

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Posted in Car Maintenance

items to always have in your vehicle car

You should always have certain items in the car, and no, we’re not talking about the piles of trash that are currently in the back seat. This list of car essentials will keep your car running and help you deal with unforeseen obstacles in the road.

You may even run into a “Good Samaritan” opportunity to help a stranded stranger in need. Who knows? You may just meet your future love this way. It’s a stretch, but that doesn’t make these items any less important!

While city drivers can do without some of these items since they are never too far from a mechanic, if you live in a rural area or are planning a long road trip, it’s always a good idea to double check some emergency essentials before heading out on the road.

So, use your instinct and view these items as strong suggestions rather than absolute requirements. Someone in Southern California may not need an extra parka, for example. But everyone needs their license, insurance, and registration.

We’ve divided these items into the essential categories: Documentation, Car Repairs & Maintenance, Safety, and Winter. Read on for the 17 things you should have in your car in 2017, and drive on to new adventures this winter and all year round!

17 Things You Should Have in the Car

Documentation

1. Owner’s Manual

Double check your glove box or wherever you keep your owner’s manual to make sure that it is indeed there. Your owner’s manual will tell you important information, such as recommended fuel and PSI levels, in addition to other important information that will be unique to your vehicle. It comes with your car, so if you never take it out, you’ll never have to worry about its whereabouts.

2. Car Repair Information

We recommend keeping car repair information, as well as insurance claim forms and AAA information, all in the same location. Car repair records help you when you are selling or repairing your vehicle, provide important information about vehicle history, and can be deducted as a business expense.

3. License, Insurance, and Registration

It may seem obvious, but you should always have your license, registration, and insurance in the car whenever you are driving it. Especially when the new insurance card comes in the mail, remembering to actually stick it in the glove box could take months. And in the meantime, you’re driving around without the main documentation asked for by police officers and required by law.

Hopefully you won’t be pulled over, but it’s the law to have these documents whenever you are driving. Knowing you’re all set and up to date with your paperwork, makes every ride all the more smooth and secure.

Keep all of your important car documents in a file folder in the glovebox:

  • Owner’s manual
  • Car maintenance receipts
  • Registration
  • Insurance
  • Emergency contact information

Car Repairs and Maintenance 

4. Tire Jack, Spare Tire, and Lug Wrench

We’ll count this as 3 things, although they must be grouped together. Nothing is quite so frustrating as finding out that your spare tire has a flat or you forgot your jack in the garage. So, make sure you have a jack, inflated spare tire, and lug wrench in the car. If you have two of these items and not the third, it’s all useless. These three things go together so make sure you have them all.

Some cars have special locking lug nuts, so make sure you have a lug nut key if that’s the case.

Learn how to change a flat tire here.

5. Jumper Cables

If your vehicle’s battery dies, it’s not always efficient or even likely that you can depend on a helpful passerby to supply you with a jumpstart. Jumper cables alone are not enough to get your engine revved up again. Because of this, you’ll also need an emergency battery booster. Sure, your insurance provider’s roadside assistance is always an option, but often the wait is longer than anticipated which can be a problem if you are late or in a dangerous situation.

Jumper cables are relatively inexpensive, costing below $20 at most retail stores or online. A dead battery tends to always be a surprise and super inconvenient. But if you’ve taken the time to purchase jumper cables and practice with jumpstarting a battery, your car, and most importantly your day, won’t be dead for long.

Most compact battery jump-starter kits now come with USB connections to keep all of your devices charged. Whether you need to jump start a vehicle or simply need to recharge your phone, a jump-starter kit is a great item to have in the car and a great gift.

Learn how to jumpstart a car here.

6. Tire Pressure Gauge

Boy does this little gadget come in handy! No one can just look at a tire and know exactly how much air has been lost and how much needs to be added. It’s easy to find out, however, with a tire pressure gauge.

Even if a specific tire doesn’t look especially low, routine checks of all four tires are always encouraged. Ensuring that your tire pressure is on point will improve handling, prolong the lifespan of your tires, and increase your vehicle’s fuel economy.

You can get your own standard gauge for under $5 on Amazon. It’s a super helpful, inexpensive safety tool that every car owner should stash in the glove box.

Click here for more information on how to take care of your tires.

7. WD-40

How many times have you struggled to loosen a nut or bolt on your car? Whether you are switching your license plate out, loosening lug nuts, or silencing a creaky door, WD-40 is a great item to always have in the car.

We’ve published a whole page on WD-40 automotive uses. Learn more about how WD-40 can help remove dirt and grease and maintain your vehicle on wd40.com.

8. Duct Tape

It’s durable duct tape to the rescue when it comes to many emergency fixes! Arguably the most magical and diverse object ever, car owners have found endless ways to use duct tape as a DIY tool for unexpected leaks, cracks, and breaks. For a laugh, but also some future inspiration, check out this compilation of Ten Heroic Duct Tape Car Repairs.

9. Cleaning Supplies

Having certain cleaning and hygiene items in the car won’t save your life, but it could save you a lot of frustration. Keep these items in your car for a cleaner and easier trip:

  • zipper lock backs
  • reusable shopping bags
  • paper towels
  • tissues
  • car trash can
  • water bottles
  • Mom’s Emergency Kit (from Angie at Echoes of Laughter)

Safety

10. First Aid Kit

You never know when you are going to need a First Aid Kit. Life has a way of springing unexpected scrapes on you, especially if you have children. You may need to clean up a cut or bandage a blister. If you spend a lot of time in your vehicle, it’s much more convenient to have a small supply of medical essentials on hand.

Your kit should include items such as Band-Aids, ointment, gauze pads, scissors, and gloves. If you don’t want to think too hard about all the little odds and ends you may need, you can purchase pre-made kits online. The AAA 53 Piece Tune Up First Aid Kit is basic, but a bargain at $8.25 on Amazon, or opt for the more thorough AAA 85 Piece Commuter First Aid Kit for $14.55. Either way, you’re looking at a pretty complete kit for under $15. Why not make the purchase rather than risk the alternative?

11. Tactical Flashlight

Good luck trying to change a tire at night without one of these. Keep a strong tactical flashlight in your car for the darkest maintenance moments that hit even the best of us at some time or another. If your flashlight requires batteries, keep some extra of those in the glove box as well.

Tactical flashlights are used by the police and military, so in addition to emitting much more light, they can also be used as a personal self-defense tool.

We offer further information on durable tactical flashlight options and other car essentials on our blog.

12. Reflective Triangles and/or Flares

Alongside a tactical flashlight, reflective triangles and/or flares are your nighttime safeguards. If you’ve pulled off to the shoulder for any prolonged amount of time, put these safety essentials around your vehicle. They offer enhanced visibility for ongoing traffic, lowering the possibility of you being hit by unsuspecting drivers while you’re waiting for the help you need.

13. Multi-Tool

Just in case you need scissors, a screwdriver, or a sharp edge, a good multi-tool will give you peace of mind knowing you have all that and much more. Here are some multi-tool user favorites.

14. Car Hammer

This little tool can save your life! While you may be able to use your tactical flashlight to break a car window in the event of an emergency, many people complain about this feature not working.

It’s much easier to break a window and escape from your car with a car hammer or emergency escape tool. Most come with a seatbelt cutter too. All cars should have one mounted for easy access.

Winter

15. Windshield Wiper Fluid 

Baby, it’s cold outside. And driving in any type of precipitation — rain, snow, ice — is no joke! To prevent the potential hazards caused by winter splash-back and combat the road sludge and slush attacking your window, you’re going to need a backup of wiper fluid.

Without visibility, get off the road! Windshield wiper fluid is your biggest support system when it comes to keeping the road visible and your path clear throughout these unpredictable weather months.

16. Ice-scraper or Snowbrush

Snowfall has greeted Chattanooga and parts of North Georgia with its icy glow. If you have snow on your windshield, you’re not going anywhere. An ice-scraper or a snowbrush are crucial for car owners in snow-covered areas.

Having one of these tools on hand will save time and help you to avoid scratches and awkward attempts at getting the snow off with whatever random items you have in your car. You also want to make sure you brush the snow off your roof, because it will either fly off the back and bother the car behind you, or it will simply loosen up enough to slide onto your windshield while you’re driving. Brush off, then drive on!

17. Warm Gear

Winter weather is unpredictable. You might leave the house with only a jacket, but find when you’re leaving work that you need gloves, a beanie, and a scarf in order to get home comfortably. Keep a reusable tote in the back of your car with these winter essentials. Leather driving gloves should be in there too. They’re both practical and stylish.

Don’t forget a blanket. In addition to keeping you warm, a blanket is perfect for picnics, preventing messes, and getting underneath your car.

Many car owners also recommend the following items:

  • Kitty Litter and/or Traction Mat
  • Pen and Paper
  • Umbrella
  • Spare Change and Cash
  • Extra Clothes
  • Shovel
  • Snacks and Energy Bars
  • Toilet Paper
  • Sunglasses
  • Makeup
  • Gum
  • Matches and Flares
  • Portable Tire Inflator
  • Foam Cooler
  • Medication (only store as directed)

What do you keep in the car? Let us know!

For more car tips, read our Car Winterization, New Year’s Resolutions for the Car, and Winter Driving Tips to prevent winter accidents and inconveniences.

Auto Simple is here for all your Used Car needs in 2017 and beyond.

Be safe & adventurous!

Auto Simple wants you to find a car you love at a price you can afford. We carry a large selection of hand-picked, Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, all of which come with a 6 month/6,000-mile powertrain warranty.

With locations in Cleveland, Chattanooga, Dayton, and a new store in Dalton, GA, we make it easy to walk away with your dream car.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to speak with one of our Online Specialists or give us a call:

Chattanooga, TN – (423) 551-3600

Cleveland, TN – (423) 476-4600

Dayton, TN – (423) 775-4600

Dalton, GA – (706) 217-2277

Follow us on social media for more useful information on buying, selling, and maintaining cars: Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Google+.

hood view of several used SUVs

9 Best Pre-Owned Cars for 2017

By
Posted in Car Buying

It’s 2017 and you’re ready to make a new start! Whether that means you’ve added a new member to the family or it’s your first set of wheels, driving away in a new certified pre-owned vehicle is an exciting experience.

The research process, however, can get dull and frustrating. We’ve made it easy by picking out the best bang-for-buck cars to kick off the New Year. Simply choose from this list, set a budget, contact Auto Simple and take any of these cars out for a test drive on our closed track.

9 Best Used Cars for 2017

If you want to skip the time-consuming process of hunting through bad car deals, here are 9 solid vehicles that will meet your budget and reliability requirements for the New Year and beyond.

  1. Chevrolet Malibu

If you’re looking for a stylish, economical, and reliable family sedan, the Chevrolet Malibu should be high on your list. You can spend a little bit more for the higher-end LTZ model or spend a little less for the base LS and LT models. Whichever model you choose, you’ll get a great, balanced driving experience with an attractive interior.

If you are looking for a versatile and affordable truck, consider the Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck.

  1. Honda Civic

First introduced in 1972, the Honda Civic has gone through many generational changes over the years, but is still known for being one of the most fuel-efficient, reliable, and economical cars on the road. You can’t really go wrong when you purchase a used Civic.

The Honda Civic makes it to the #1 spot on so many car lists because of its reliability, fuel economy, and high-quality interior. While some modern features may be missing, a used Civic is a great choice for anyone in the market.

  1. Toyota Camry

The Camry is one of those no-brainer choices when it comes to buying a reliable used car. With lots of space, crisp handling, and good fuel economy, the Camry makes the car buying experience easy.

The LE at the end stands for Luxury Edition and the SE stands for Sports Edition. These two models are similar, but there are some differences. In general, the added LE or SE label adds luxury add-ons such as sportier designs, nicer interiors, improved handling, and more electronics.

  1. Toyota Corolla

While some may complain of its boring interior uninspiring driving experience, the Toyota Corolla gets great safety, comfort, and performance scores. “Boring” means you’ll have plenty of visibility and room, including easy to use climate and audio controls.

If you like the Corolla but want a different driving experience, try out the Ford Focus or Mazda6.

  1. Mazda3 and Mazda6

The Mazda3 is a small car with a quality interior and sporty handing. You’ll love the controls as you wind down hills and feel spoiled in an interior that seems too luxurious for its class. With an engine that is both powerful and economical, this car is the complete package for anyone wanting a smooth ride. For those worried about a lot of leg room in the back, you may want to look elsewhere.

The Mazda6 is a midsize car with some added vroom. With quick and powerful handling, the Mazda6 is a fun car to drive, no question. While it may not be the most fuel efficient car on the list, its attractive interior and exterior make you forget all about it. Both the Mazda3 and Mazda6 are fun, attractive, and comfortable cars that make them feel ritzy for the price.

  1. Ford Focus

This compact 4-door family car with front-engine, front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is the world’s best-selling automobile. In fact, as of 2012, the Focus has outsold the ubiquitous Toyota Corolla globally. While reliability and safety scores are comparable to the Camry and Corolla, some drivers prefer the handling and interior of the Focus.

Highly ranked by U.S. News and World Report, the Focus comes in many body styles and luxury options. Impressive fuel economy, handling, and workmanship distinguish itself from other cars in its class.

  1. Kia Soul

The Kia Soul definitely has attitude, and space. This small crossover car, something between a car and an SUV, is perfect for someone needing a lot of space. If you can’t afford the fancier SUVs and can do without 4-wheel drive, the Kia Soul is a safe and comfortable option with plenty of cargo space.

  1. Pontiac Vibe

A small hatchback with a sporty look and high safety ratings? It’s hard to beat. This is a low-mileage, sturdy vehicle with plenty of cargo space. The vibe was redesigned in 2009 and any models during this year are considered second generation. They boast computerized traction-control and anti-lock brakes, features The Vibe’s previous model did not have.

We have several other Pontiac vehicles, including the Solstice and G5.

  1. Scion xB and Scion xD

A five-door hatchback subcompact has a fun and unique appearance. Remarked upon for its safety features, distinctiveness, and reasonable price tag, the Scion xB and xD both deliver a lot of bang for the buck.

They consistently get 5-star safety ratings. No surprise as they have anti-lock brakes, brake assist, traction control, and up to six airbags. And as of 2010, they come with vehicle stability control and an updated exterior that is utilitarian yet modern.

For more tips on car buying, read our Used Car Buyer’s Guide and How to Buy a Used Car On Bad Credit.

Wishing you a healthy and prosperous New Year!

Read our Car Winterization, New Year’s Resolutions for the Car, and Winter Driving Tips to prevent winter accidents and inconveniences.

Is there a car you’d like to see on the list? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+. 

We control the quality of our cars and have our own test track to put the car through all driving conditions. See why our Customer Confidence Program is one of the best in the nation.

We carry a large selection of Hand-Picked, Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, all with a 6 month/6,000-mile Powertrain Warranty. Stop by any of our locations today:

Chattanooga, TN – (423) 551-3600

Cleveland, TN – (423) 476-4600

Dayton, TN – (423) 775-4600

Dalton, GA – (706) 217-CARS (2277)