If you are looking for a solid, reliable locally owned and operated auto repair shop to turn to for your vehicles’ maintenance and repair needs, you’ve already made a wise decision. You’ve concluded a local, independent repair shop is a better option than the dealership. That’s wise because when you use a quality independent service provider, you’ll typically save money, receive far better customer service and essentially be entering into a lasting customer-service provider relationship that, over the years, often becomes a genuine friendship. With the decision made to “go independent,” the next question becomes, “which independent?” Here are three criteria to look for in a local repair shop.

Unlike gas costs, which are happily plummeting, auto repair costs typically remain relatively even from month to month and year to year. Absent the dramatic discounts you enjoy at the pump, how can you decide whether you should invest in a pricey repair or trade in your car for a newer model? Here are a few things to consider.

For many people, being self-employed represents the pinnacle of success. Self-employed people can set their own hours, make the rules and reap the rewards of hard work. There are drawbacks to self-employment, though. One of the biggest is it can be tough to prove how much money you make. A reliable, steady, sufficient income stream is one of the most important things lenders look for when evaluating loan applications. The good news is you can get auto financing when you are self-employed if you can produce some key documents to prove your income.

If you’re like many Americans, this is the time of year when you’re anxiously anticipating a much-appreciated cash windfall: your tax refund. Many people plan to use this cash in hand as a down payment for a new car. What many of these people don’t realize is they can put this money in the bank and still get a new car.Buying a car with no down payment is possible and often smart. It simply requires some advanced planning.

If you own a vehicle, you’re familiar with the vehicle inspection process. Like paying taxes, getting your car inspected is just one of those things you’ve got to do each 2 years. Or is it? Beginning in May 2016, New Jersey will enact changes to its vehicle emissions inspection program. For one group of car owners, the changes will certainly be welcome!

As you consider buying a new car, you need to know how to determine your car budget so you can make the smart choice financially. Many people look at cars and their features and then make a selection based on what they want, without giving careful consideration to the overall cost. However, it’s important to ask yourself, “Can I afford a new vehicle?” Learning the factors that affect your current car value will help you decide if the car you want is right for you.

Have you ever wondered, “How do I choose the best car for my needs?” There are so many makes and models available on the market with a vast array of features from which to choose. When you know the important steps to take before you go car shopping and follow these tips for finding the right car, you increase the chances of making the best choice. Because the car buying should be based on research, not emotions, it’s critical to follow these steps.

Whether you buy a new car every couple of years or every decade or more, car shopping can be an exciting process. You’ll see a dizzying array of makes and models in a rainbow of colors, some packed with extra features and cool gadgets. It's important to research the looks and features of a vehicle before you commit. Before you become caught up in the excitement, do your homework and narrow down what you want, need and can afford.

According to analysts, including Forrester Research, online shopping sales are expected to top $370 billion in 2017, up from just over $230 billion in 2012. But in our technology-centered world, this news probably comes as no surprise. More shoppers of all ages are reaching for their keyboards rather than their car keys to buy a variety of products, ranging from clothes to furniture. However, there’s one important purchase most customers still insist on buying in person: a vehicle. Read on for three reasons why your local car dealership is the best place to buy your new automobile.

You’ve done your research, shopped around, requested a vehicle history report if you’re looking at pre-owned cars and finally found “the one” at a price that, on the surface, seems right. That’s just the first step in buying a car. Once you’ve made your decision, the poker game begins. It takes place not at a table surrounded by your friends, but at a desk face to face with someone whose desired end game is opposite of yours. He wants to sell you a car at the highest price he can and you want to buy that car at the lowest price possible. Have you perfected your poker face?