Toyota's College Grad Rebate Program for Buying a New Car!

If you've graduated from college within the past two years (or will within the next 6 months), you can take advantage of Toyota's awesome College Grad Rebate program! 

Not only will you receive a $750 rebate, but you won't have to make a single monthly payment for the first 90 days!

To learn more, visit either our Davis Toyota or Hilltop Toyota rebate sites to learn more, and where you can fill out a form to contact us today!

Fixing up vs Buying New

Some might say that the best way to save money on cars is to keep and care for the ol' clunker and drive it until the drops. However, after some point, this becomes untrue; the money you save from not buying a new car is being eaten up by the costs associated with keeping the old one on the road. Whether to fix up or buy new is up to you, but here are some points to help you make an informed decision.

For fixing up:

• Except for the most disastrous of damages, repairs are almost always cheaper than buying an entirely new car. You might be able to buy a used car for a few thousand dollars, but keep in mind that a used car comes with its own set of issues.
• Insurance premiums, registration fees, and personal-property taxes go up with new cars, and your financial situation might not be ideal.
• New cars depreciate drastically within its first couple years on the road. Your old car has already taken the hit.
• Everyone has a little sentimental attachment to their old cars. Perhaps it was your dream car, or your first car, or a gift from a beloved family member; your car can be like an old friend, associated with unforgettable memories of journeys long gone, and that can be something that is difficult to give up.

For buying a new car:

• You don't have to worry about future breakdowns, or at least not for a while. 
• Trips to the mechanic cost you not only a hefty sum of money, but it also eats away at time better spent on work, friends, and family.
• You're tired of your old car and ready for a change. Perhaps it looks like it's scratched and banged up like it's gone through a war, or it rattles like it's about to fall apart at the next trip to the store, or you have to bang on A/C to get it to work. 
• You want something safer, since new cars come the the most up-to-date safety features and equipment (side airbags, tire-pressure monitors, electronic stability control, and more). 
• A nicer looking car might could potentially boost your credibility in the eyes of your clients, for certain professions such as lawyers or salesmen.

Buying New vs. Used Cars

After reading the article "Am I Ready for a New Car" and finally coming to the decision to replace your current car, often the next question to ask yourself is this: should I buy a new car... or a used car?

Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; everything is subjective. However, here are several advantages of each that can help you with the decision-making process.

New cars:

• Peace of mind. New cars are less likely to break down and remain mechanically sound for many years after purchase. The new vehicle likely won't need new tires, a battery, exhaust system or brakes during the first few years of ownership or longer. Competitive warranties can help cover repair costs, and can range from 3-5 years or cover a certain number of kilometers. In addition to a comprehensive warranty, virtually all mainstream new cars come with free roadside assistance while the vehicle remains under warranty. Furthermore, if you encounter significant problems, state lemon laws allow you to replace your new car or get your money back, if you can prove that your car is a "lemon" (a defect). 
• Features. New cars often come with the latest, coolest features. For example, they are more likely have better safety features, be more fuel efficient, and emit fewer and less harmful chemicals into the environment. They can also be made to order and customized according to your individual needs. 
• Financing. Loans for new vehicles are easier to secure and come with cheaper rates, since its current value is absolute and its eventual value is easier to gauge (which means less guesswork involved for lenders). If you have good credit (720+), you may have fewer problems buying a new car with little or no down payment, and many manufacturers offer rebates, cash incentives, and discounted financing. 

Used cars:

• Increased choice. There are thousands of used cars available for purchase, ranging from newer models to collectable cars to well-maintained and serviced older cars. The key is in the research, most of which can be accomplished online. 
• Better prices. There are multiple reasons why used cars are cheaper than new ones. First of all is depreciation, since most cars lose up to 20% of its value the first time it is driven out of the dealer's parking lot, and up to 40% of its value within its first three years. Dealers also need to make a profit and pay for overheads such as premises and staff; used cars are often bought privately, which allows you to bypass the dealer mark-up. Furthermore, insurance rates are often lower for used cars. However, be sure to take ongoing motor costs into account when comparing prices, since replacement parts and maintenance can be costly.

Picture courtesy: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkxZf4XMM8305hADJlC2RsVUZvSVvqNiK1-rg4R3Prd6lo86-Bnah-crfXEe0RUuBj-tkmgdD2-w3l23YwtBkkg203BiL4hBFPC0mBtLL-bdJRG7kiTjyDmGLJStDQ4ygTFuiSmCs-hE/s1600/old+and+new.jpg

How to Test Drive a New Car

With so many options for car shopping online and so many good deals, it is tempting to simply walk into the dealership and purchase your dream car on the spot. However, buying a car without test driving  it first is like marrying someone without even a first date; no matter how good a car looks and how great of a deal it is and how well received it is by critics, there are still crucial flaws – mechanical, personal, or otherwise – that can be found during the test drive.

Step 1: Do your homework

• You should do your research and know exactly what models you are potentially interested in before stepping into the dealership; do not let the salesperson talk you into getting a car that is not right for you. Consider what your needs are, what qualities or features you're looking for, and what your price range is. Make a descending list of your "must-haves" and your "preferred/optionals."

Step 2: Get acquainted

• Bring both your driver's license and insurance with you to the dealership, since they will want to make copies. Be sure to get both back before you leave for the test drive.
• Bring a friend, family member, or significant other with you for an outside opinion. If the new car is to be a family car, be sure to bring your family as well, so you know how the new car would function with kids in the backseat.
• Drive your potential candidates back-to-back so you can accurately compare them. 
• Some tips to determine fit:
• Comfortable seats?
• Enough head, hip leg room, both in the front and back seats?
• Easy entry and exit?
• Fit, finish, and general build quality?

Step 3: Take it for a spin

• Take your time. Allow at least half an hour and drive on all kinds of roads, ideally not just the salesperson's predetermined route. Your test drive should match your driving requirements: will you be driving on hills, highways, locally, et cetera?
• Turn off the stereo so you can pay attention to the sound of the engine and the driving experience.
• What to look for:
• The engine should be cold before you start. If it is hot, there may be a starting problem. When driving, it should be quiet and pull smoothly, with no smoke. Listen for unusual noises, especially from the suspension, or excessive wind noise.
• Steering should be responsive with no vibration, and brakes should be smooth.
• How is the acceleration and passing acceleration (pay attention to downshifting).
• Is it capable of climbing hills with relative ease?
• When cornering, does it hug the road or wallow about?
• How is the visibility (using the rear and side view mirrors)?
• Are the controls and instruments easy to reach/use?
• How is parking - is it easy to parallel park, are there big blind spots, is it easy to maneuver?

Always take the time to reflect on the vehicles and determine which suits you best. Put yourself in control of the test drive. While this level of preparation may not guarantee your absolute perfect car, it is due diligence for a major purchase and one you will certainly not regret.

Picture courtesy: http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2011/07/08/539880-so-cal-ride-and-drive-new-car-show-test-drive.2-lg.jpg

Thank You to Our Recent Customer:

"Everyone was so helpful and friendly.  I could not have been more pleased with this experience.  I will recommend Hanlees Hyundai to my friends and family."
-Madeline T. 4/7/2013

Thank you Madeline!  We are so happy to have had the pleasure to assist you.  Welcome to the Hanlees family!

Visit Our Group's Website

Our Hilltop Hyundai Store

Our Fremont Hyundai Store

Am I Ready For A New Car?

So your car is looking a little old and dingy. Then, you see someone drive by in a shiny new car. The shiny paint and clean lines scream: “You Gotta Get a New Car!” Before you sign the dotted line, keep a few things in mind.

• Do I have the money for a new car?: Unfortunately, cars are not free. We all have to make sure we have sufficient funds for our payments.
• What is my trade-in value for my current car?: This could help defray the costs and take some money off your final bill.
• How is my credit?: Having bad credit doesn't make it impossible to purchase a car, but it can make it a little harder. Often, you will need more money down on the car if your credit is bad.
• Do I really need a “New” car?: If you just got a new car a year ago, chances are, you can make do with what you have. However, if your current car does not suit your needs, it is important to find a vehicle that does.
• What are my priorities?: Does my current car provide enough safety, space, and fuel efficiency? Do I need a car with a back seat for when I have kids? Do I need a car with 4 wheel drive for when I go to Tahoe?

Purchasing a new car can be a fun and exciting process. Do your research and take a look at your finances. There are many factors that go into looking for a new car besides your color preference. Find the car that works the best with your wants, needs, and budget. It can really help to talk to a salesperson to find the vehicle that works the best for you.