4 Must-Dos before Buying a Pre-Owned Toyota in NJ

Are you in the market for a pre-owned Toyota? Toyotas are prized for their reliability, efficiency, safety and value, making them a good brand whether you're buying new or used. To ensure you get a good deal on your used Toyota, you need to be well-informed before you go shopping. Here are some tips you should follow when buying a pre-owned Toyota in NJ.

Know what "certified pre-owned" means 

Not all used cars are certified. A certified pre-owned vehicle has been inspected, repaired and certified by the manufacturer. Certified pre-owned Toyotas also often come with additional benefits, such as an extended warranty, roadside assistance, or special financing. Buying a certified Toyota gives you peace of mind knowing the car was inspected and refurbished.

Review the inspection report 

While Toyotas are well-known for their reliability, the condition of a particular vehicle depends on its history. Before making a purchase, review the vehicle's inspection report. All certified pre-owned Toyotas are inspected prior to certification. Verify that the vehicle identification number (VIN) is the same as the one listed on the report.  If you aren't buying a certified Toyota and there is no report, then arrange for a vehicle inspection so that you know the car's history. 

Take it for a spin

You should always take a vehicle for a test drive before making a purchase. The test drive gives you a better idea of the car's condition and how it operates and rides. View our top test drive tips here.

Negotiate a good deal

Before sealing the deal, you should know the vehicle's market value. Websites like Kelly Blue Book, Edmunds and Nada Guides can tell you the value of a used Toyota. Research the car's value and come to the dealership armed with this information to negotiate the best price.

By following these tips, you can get a good deal on a used Toyota. At our Autoland dealership in Springfield, we have a great selection of pre-owned Toyotas of various years and models. Visit us online or at the dealership to find the perfect pre-owned Toyota in NJ today.

Driving Safety Tips for Your Teen Driver

Getting a license and finally being able to drive is a very exciting time for teenagers. While teens may be ready to jump behind the wheel and hit the road, parents should discuss safe driving techniques with their children to ensure they keep themselves and others safe on the roadways. Unfortunately, teens' inexperience makes them the highest group for auto accidents. However, practicing safe driving techniques can reduce that risk.

To promote safe driving for teens, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sponsors Teen Driver Safety Week annually in October. This year, the event falls October 16 to 22.  In honor of the upcoming Teen Driver Safety Week, here are some ways you can ensure the safety of your teen driver.

Buy a Safe Car

Most teens drive used cars in New Jersey. When buying used, always be sure to get the vehicle history report. Whether you're buying new or used, pick a safe car equipped with the latest safety features, including anti-lock brakes, airbags, traction control, and electronic stability control, as well as an outstanding crash safety rating. While you want a car that provides protection in the event of a crash, it's best to avoid large, bulky cars like trucks that aren't the easiest for new drivers to operate.  

For a safe car for your teen, visit our Autoland Dealership on Route 22 in Springfield. We carry a variety of new and used cars in New Jersey and will be happy to assist you with your search.

Always Wear a Seat Belt

A seat belt provides protection in the event of a crash. Not wearing a sea tbelt significantly increases the risk of injury or even death. Make sure your child knows to always wear a seat belt and to check that their passenger is buckled up before hitting the road. Newer cars have a seat belt warning that beeps until everyone is wearing a seat belt.

Always Obey the Speed Limit

Speed limits are set for a reason; the speed limit is based on the road condition and surrounding area. Speeding significantly raises the risk of an accident, as it impedes your ability to stop or react quickly. Aside from accidents, speeding can also result in a traffic ticket, resulting in fines, points, and a higher auto insurance premium. Encourage your teen to maintain a safe speed and safe distance with the car in front of them. Also tell them not to feel pressured to speed to keep up with traffic.

Enforce a "No Cell Phone" Rule

Cell phone use while driving is among the leading causes of auto accidents. Today's teens are more tech savvy than ever, and it's important your child understands the extreme danger of texting and using a phone behind the wheel. Research shows texting takes your focus off the road for about 5 seconds, which is the equivalent of driving the length of a full football field while blindfolded.

Encourage your child to leave their phone in their bag or safely stowed in the glove compartment or center console when behind the wheel. Drivers should also turn off their phone or put it silent to avoid the urge to answer. Even texting while sitting at a stop light should not be done. Drivers still need to pay attention while stopped in case something occurs.  

Minimize Distractions 

In addition to cell phones, there are other distractions that should be avoided while driving. A distraction is anything that takes a driver's mind off of driving, hands of the wheel, or eyes off the road. Talking to passengers, adjusting the temperature controls, changing the radio station, and eating and drinking are all distractions while driving. While these are distractions for anyone, they are even more so for inexperienced drivers; distractions can prevent a teen driver from noticing an impeding danger until it's too late.

To avoid distractions, prohibit your teen driver from having more than one passenger in the car, as passengers increase the risk of an accident. Also encourage your teen not to eat or drink while driving, as well as to keep other distractions to a minimum.

Enroll in a Safe Driving Program

To equip your teen with more experience and give yourself piece of mind, enroll them in a safe driving program. Safe driving courses can be taken in-person or online and typically last between six and 12 hours. Your insurance company may offer a driving safety program, or check with the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles for a list of approved courses. Not only will the program increase your teen's knowledge and skills, but also it could result in a discount on their auto insurance.

Set a Good Example

If you don't practice what you preach, it can be difficult for your teen to follow your advice. Make sure you are obeying the same safe driving practices that you are teaching your child. Make sure you are always wearing a seat belt, avoiding distractions, maintaining a safe speed, and so on.

Six Reasons to Buy a Used Car from a Dealership

Are you in the market for a used car? While you may be inclined to scour classified ads in search of a used car from a private seller, it's best to buy from an established dealership. Though good deals have come from private sellers, buying a used car from a stranger comes with its fair share of risks. Used car dealerships in NJ offer a variety of benefits that private sellers do not, including protection, safety and financing options. Read on to discover some major reasons why you should purchase your next used vehicle from a dealership. 

Reason #1: Better Selection

Used car dealerships in NJ provide a wide selection of used cars for you to choose from, all in one convenient place. This cuts out the legwork of having to contact multiple private sellers just to compare vehicles. A dealer can show you a number of different cars that suit your needs, preferences and budget in a single visit. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient sedan or flashy spots car, a dealership has the types of vehicles you're looking for. 

Reason #2: Additional Features

Along with choosing a vehicle, dealerships offer extra features that you can't get from a private seller, such as an upgraded sound system or backup camera. Beyond these add-ons, dealerships can modify certain features of the vehicle, such as removing a curb rash, as well as offer additional promotions, such as a free tire rotation or oil change. 

Reason #3: Safety 

When you go to a used car dealership, you know who you're dealing with. The same may not be true when viewing a car from a private seller. With a car dealership, you are viewing the cars at a reputable business establishment during business hours. A meeting with a private seller, however, may occur at a private residence and after normal business hours, which can threaten your safety. 

Reason #4: Reputation 

While private sellers may not be actively engaged in the car selling business, car dealerships in NJ have a reputation to uphold. A dealership relies on repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, so they're interested in building strong relationships with their customers and treat them like family. Dealers strive to provide the most pleasant car buying experience and ensure their customers are 100% satisfied. And, if you have questions down the road, a dealership will be there for you when you need them.

Reason #5: Vehicle Protection 

Unless there's a transferable warranty, there's no vehicle protection when buying from a private seller. Private sellers do not have to comply with Lemon Laws, so if a problem arises with the car after you've purchased it, you're on your own. Car dealers in NJ are required to comply with Lemon Laws and offer car buyers additional warranties and vehicle service plans on their used cars. You have a peace of mind knowing your car is protected when you buy from a dealer. 

In addition, a dealership is required to perform a full inspection on used cars before resale, whereas a private seller has no such requirement. A used car dealer has a team of certified technicians who inspect the vehicles to ensure they're in tip-top shape.  

Reason #6: Financing Options 

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a dealer is the financing options. Dealers generally offer their own financing options, whereas private sellers do not. If you buy from a private seller, then you're responsible for securing your own financing. Many major lending companies will not finance a vehicle owned by a private seller, so it can be more difficult to get a loan, and the interest rate may be higher. 

These are a few key reasons to buy a used car from a dealer. At Autoland Springfield, we provide a large selection of quality, low-mileage used cars. Stop by our dealership off Route 22 or visit us online at www.1800AutoLand.com to view our used car inventory.

A Guide to Buying Used Cars in New Jersey

Searching for a great used car can take a lot of work. Whereas a new car has never been driven before, a used car has had one or more previous owners. Each used car has its own unique history that needs to be investigated, in addition to the usual steps of buying a new car. To help you purchase a used car that's right for you, consider the following tips from Autoland Toyota. Visit our dealership located at Route 22 in Springfield to view our large inventory of used cars in New Jersey.

Know How Much You Can Afford

Before you can set out to buy a car, you need to determine how much you can afford. A general rule of thumb is that the monthly payment should not exceed 20% of your take-home pay. Based on this guideline, establish a budget and stick to it. Establishing a strict budget will prevent you from being swayed to purchase a more expensive vehicle with nicer features you may not need. When setting your budget, keep in mind extra costs in addition to the monthly payment, including the down payment, taxes, and potential dealer fees.  Click here for some additional factors to keep in mind when creating your car budget.

Determine Your Needs

Along with establishing a budget, you need to determine your needs. You may have specific needs and preferences when it comes to the brand, style, size, and mileage. For instance, if you have a family of five, you might want to consider a larger vehicle, such as an SUV with a good crash safety rating. Once you identify a list of requirements, it’s a smart idea to write them down so that you don't overlook anything when shopping for a vehicle. Refer to Kelley Blue Book car value guides to see what types of vehicles fit best in your budget. This will also help you later on when it's time to negotiate with the dealer.

Find Used Cars in Your Area

Once you have some types of cars in mind, try to locate them for sale in your area. Scour the classified ads and search online to compare the various vehicles and prices available to you. You can do a large Internet search of all the dealerships in your area, or search directly on the dealer's website. At 1800Autoland.com you can browse a large inventory of used cars by price, make, model, and type.  

Review the Car's History Report

Before you go to see the car in person, investigate the vehicle's history. If what you find is negative, then do not bother to go see the vehicle. You can access a car's history report at Carfax.com or Autocheck.com using the vehicle's vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate. The report will tell you crucial information about the vehicle, including the accident history and if it has a salvage title.

Analyze and Test Drive the Vehicle

If the vehicle history report turns out positive, contact the dealership so you can see it in person. It’s best to visit the dealership in daylight so that you can easily detect any visible problems with the vehicle. Test drive the car to ensure it's in good condition. Test everything from the lights, wipers and audio, to the automatic windows, cruise control and suspension settings. Also observe the handling of the vehicle, such as how it steers, accelerates, decelerates, and turns, among other driving factors. Be sure to simulate your daily driving patterns. For instance, if you often drive on the highway, test drive the car on the highway.

Get the Vehicle Inspected

If the car seems like a perfect fit, get it inspected by a trusted professional. A professional inspection may reveal something you didn't notice during your test drive and can potentially save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Make an Offer

After you are satisfied with the inspection, make an offer. Your offer should be based on your budget and the research you've compiled about pricing and car values. To negotiate the best deal, offer a competitive price. If you offer is rejected, you may want to make a counter offer, but be sure not to exceed your budget. Once you and the dealer have agreed on a price, the deal has been closed. Before hitting the road, the vehicle should be added to your insurance policy and the title and registration transferred to you.

With these tips you can find the perfect used car for you and your family. Visit us online at www.1800Autoland.com or call (877) 853-3723 for information about our used cars in New Jersey.

Toyota's Camry and Prius are Two Popular Used Cars for Sale in NJ

New Jersey offers some of the best used car sale deals in the country, and two of the most popular cars on NJ roads are the Toyota Camry and the Toyota Prius. These two Toyota vehicles are seen more often than most other used cars for sale in NJ because of their high-quality and affordable pricing.

Toyota Camry

Buyers love the Camry model because of its reputation for longevity and mileage past the 100,000 mile mark. More and move drivers are choosing a Toyota Camry over other makes and models due to its great performance on New Jersey's congested roads. The Camry handles well in any conditions and offers maximum comfort for those seemingly endless hours when drivers are stuck in city traffic.

Toyota Prius

When Toyota premiered its Prius, NJ car buyers wanted to be in on the trend of this new technology. Many car buyers purchased this hybrid with trepidation because it was a new model that was generally unproven, but now, the Prius is a well-established vehicle that New Jersey drivers can afford. The Prius has earned recognition for its great mileage and attractive design, and they are seen all over NJ roads today.

Used Toyota Cars Ready to Go

When a car buyer purchases a used Camry Prius, they receive the assurance that their vehicle has been put through a rigorous schedule of tests and carries the Toyota standard for reliability. A used Toyota is an excellent economical choice and will likely last longer than other makes and models available.

Where to Buy

If you're looking for reliable and affordable used cars for sale in NJ, contact us today! The Toyota Camry and Prius are two excellent options, but we also have a number of other great choices available for New Jersey drivers.