Author: Paulo Abad

Driving isn’t a right, it’s a privilege. Thus, you need to be fully prepared before you take your brand new or pre-owned car for a spin. That means a lot of things, like preparing yourself, having the right documents, and what-not. To help you out, listed below are five of the most essential things responsible motorists have.

Driver’s License

Obviously, you shouldn’t drive without a driver’s license, even if you have mad skills behind the wheel. In any case, the law requires anyone wanting to operate an automobile to have a license first, with hefty penalties for those who fail to comply. So if you’ve just bought that shiny albeit secondhand car you’ve been daydreaming about, better get a license before starting its engine.

Car Registration

Next, you need to make sure that your car’s registration is up-to-date. Like your driver’s license, a vehicle’s registration is critical; you shouldn’t take your ride out if it’s unlisted. Therefore, as soon as you have your license (or before, it doesn’t really matter which comes first as long as you get both), bring your auto to the nearest Land Transportation Office (LTO) and get the necessary registration documents.

Spare Tire

As soon as your license and registration are ready, you can start driving. But first, you need to make sure you bring a spare tire. Though you probably won’t use it, it’s still important to bring one on your road trips. That way, you’ll be prepared to replace one of your tires in case something does happen.

Tool Box

And you also need to bring a toolbox with you (complete with all the tools and gadgets you might need, of course). Mishaps and accidents can happen while you’re on the road no matter how careful and responsible you are. By having all the sets of necessary tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to remedy whatever damage your beloved ride incurs along the way.

Fitness

Last but definitely not least, you need to be physically fit before you drive. Most people neglect factoring in their health and well-being when it comes to driving. Don’t be like those guys! Instead, make sure you’re in tip-top condition before hitting the road. This means having good eyesight, having proper presence of mind, and many more.

The Takeaway

Before you can start driving, you need to make sure you have everything you need. By keeping the things listed above near at hand, you’ll be one step closer to hitting the road with your beloved ride.

If you are ready to drive but do not have a ride yet, check out the best second-hand car deals here.

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Things You’ll Need If You Want to Be a Responsible Motorist

Getting a car if you have money and good credit score is one thing, but buying one if you’re broke or in debt is quite another. Still, even if your financial status is currently on the rocks, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a brand new or used car. By following the tips laid out below, you can do just that!

Get a Loan Through the Dealership
Seeking a loan though dealerships is quite common. In fact, a lot of auto dealerships specialize in selling affordable used cars to customers with slightly critical financial status. Most refer to them as “buy here pay here" programs. Basically, the dealer gives you a car loan to help you buy a vehicle with little to no money down. Afterwards, you need to settle your debt with the dealer an interest rate they will set. Before applying for this type of loan, you should know the good chance your application would be approved.

Keep Your Employment Status Steady
You can also increase your chances of buying a car is by improving your current financial standing first. And the best way you can do this is by having a stable employment with a steady income. Many lenders and dealers look at an applicant’s employment status and pay slip when deciding to approve their loan. Most base their decisions on the person’s ability to settle their loans as soon as possible. So if you want to buy a new car and you’re currently unemployed, best get a job first.

Optimize Your Credit Score
Another way you can improve your current financial standing is by optimizing your credit score. Stat by learning what your credit score first to help you know where you stand financially. Then proceed with evaluating your score to know if you can still qualify for a car loan or not, as well as determine the amount of money you can get from the loan. While you’re at it, you should make sure there are no discrepancies in your credit report (notify the authorities immediately in case there are). And you can also do a few things to gradually improve your financial standing, including paying off small balances and getting a credit card.

Improve Your Financial Status First

By following the tips above, you’ll be able to buy your own car despite having little money and a previous undesirable credit score. Still, it would be better if you improve your financial standing first. That way, you can better enjoy your ride.

If you’re ready to purchase a second hand car now, then let’s #GoDrive!

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How to Afford a Car If You Don’t have Enough Money

Buying a brand new car should be given a great deal of thought. Aside from the fact that a vehicle never appreciates in value, you should also be aware of the other factors (most of them financial-related) that come with buying a ride, be it a new one or a pre-owned car. Read on below to find out what these factors are.

Automobile Brand
Gone are the days when Americans can claim dominance when it comes to SUVs, as well as the period when South Korean cars were considered inferior to Japanese ones. By choosing the right brand for you, you’ll be able to get a vehicle that would suit your needs best. Plus, some brands have greater after-sales service and higher resale value compared to others.

Vehicle Type
You also need to know what vehicle to buy; otherwise, you might end up with a ride you don’t like. A few things to keep in mind when considering vehicle type are the number of seats, parking space in your home, and the vehicle’s purpose (business, family, etc.).

Transmission
Choosing between manual and automatic transmission when buying a car is very important. With the traffic in Metro Manila getting worse, most motorists opt for AT vehicles instead of MT because they’re easier to handle. Still, MT rides tend to come at a more affordable price, and there’s a certain level of excitement with driving a car with a stick shift.

Car Dealer
Finding car dealers today may not be that hard, but looking for good ones is quite another matter. Aside from better lounge areas, service bays, and parking space, good car dealers must also be very professional and knowledgeable about the car you’re planning to buy. And the car dealer’s place must be near the area where you live. That way, both of you won’t be hassled by today’s worsening traffic.

Maintenance Costs
Always remember that your car spending won’t end with buying your ride. It comes with maintenance costs that will manifest itself the longer you have your car. Knowing the cost of maintenance involving a new vehicle should also be one of your top considerations. By doing so, you’ll be able to prepare yourself in case better a component of your car becomes damaged or worn out.

Think Things Through Before Buying

Aside from the factors above, you also need to think about other things before buying an automobile, including your buying budget, the car’s color, and better deals from car stores. This also applies to used cars. By considering them thoroughly, you’ll be able to afford your dream car.

You may also want to check out pre-owned car units first, as you might see more benefits in having one than a brand new unit. Go to GoDrive’s shop here.

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Things to Consider Before Buying a Brand New Car

A lot of people still scoff at the idea of buying a secondhand car ― much to their loss! Believe it or not, getting a used vehicle instead of a brand new one can actually be the better choice. Aside from the fact that there are reputable dealerships that offer quality and affordable bargains, here are a couple of other reasons why a secondhand car is a smart investment.

Recent Cars Live Longer and Are More Reliable
Many secondhand cars in the past made risky investment indeed. Luckily, the same cannot be said of today’s modern cars. Where past vehicle models are designed to last only up to 7 years, today’s line of automobiles can last at least 10 years. Moreover, today’s cars are built with features that made it much more reliable than their predecessors. Thus, it will cost you significantly less to get a used but well-maintained car than a brand new one.

Better Financing Terms are Also Available Now
Secondhand car dealerships don’t have to sell their cars as hard as those offering new ones; they don’t need to lure you in with installment schemes, impressive sales talk, and what-not. Thus, interest rates for used vehicles tend to be higher than on brand new ones. Still, these interest rates are very competitive! Plus, you can negotiate with the dealer to get lower down payments and long repayment terms, grabbing a fantastic financing assistance deal in the process.

Insurance Costs Also Tend to Be Less
Buying a used car and getting it insured will cost you much less in the long run than buying a new one. Car insurance is based on a variety of factors like age, previous accidents, and value. However, vehicle value plays a bigger role than most of these factors. A brand new car’s value plunges during the first years of ownership, no matter how well-maintained it is. Thus, its insurance cost tends to be less.

And You Can Minimize Depreciation
The value of a brand new car starts going down by 20% as soon as you drive it off the lot, and it will gradually decrease in value by 10% during the first year of ownership. This is something not faced with second hand car owners. Not only does a used vehicle enable you to better take that depreciation hit, but it also allows you to get a great deal for a fair price.

Go for Secondhand Cars

As you can see, pre-owned cars does make a smart investment for those looking for great car deals at affordable costs. So instead of shelling out thousands of pesos for a brand new ride, you would do better to get a used car and save your hard-earned bucks.

Check out GoDrive’s quality second hand car units here.

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Buying A Secondhand Car, A Smart Investment Move

Having your own car is awesome. Not only can it help you go places better, but it can also improve your lifestyle as a whole. This doesn't just apply to brand new cars, mind you; a second hand car can also make your life just as easier. Read on below to learn more about the importance of cars in your life.

It Makes Traveling More Comfortable
Public transportation might be cheaper, but they’re not as comfortable as driving your own car. Plus, you can’t always rely on commuting. Not only does doing so leave you in the mercy of harsh elements (many public transportation vehicles are air-conditioned, but they may still be not as maintained as private vehicles), but it can also leave you more vulnerable to theft and harassment.

It Gets You Places Faster
Another perfect reason why you shouldn’t always rely on public transportation is that it can eat a lot of your time. Most public vehicles tend to move more slowly and sluggishly than private vehicles, especially since they need to load and unload passengers at different points along roads and highways. Sure, you can try P2P rides, but they can also be slowed down by unforeseen factors like accidents, roadblocks, and what-not.

It Lets You Bring More Stuff
It’s always good advice to travel light. There are moments, though, when you need to bring large and heavy baggage during your adventures, especially if you’re going to spend a long time away from home. Getting these luggages from point A to B can be very cumbersome, particularly if you’re traveling on your own. By having your own car, however, you’ll be able to carry your stuff easier. Just place it in the baggage compartment of your vehicle, and you’re good to go.

It Helps Your Family Grow Closer
One last benefit (albeit underappreciated) a car can offer, is that it gives you an opportunity to grow closer with your family. Believe it or not, people spend a significant amount of time inside vehicles. So if you’re travelling with family and friends, you might as well make the most of it and spend quality time with them while you’re driving. That way, you’ll not only strengthen your bond with each other, but you’ll also make the journey smoother.

Invest in a Car Now
Buying a vehicle, whether it’s a brand new one or a pre-owned car, is one of the largest investments you will ever make in your lifetime. Rest assured, however, that a car is worth every penny you earn.

Check out GoDrive’s best used cars here.

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How Cars Make Life Easier

If you’re a part of the crowd that wants to prolong the life of their aging cars or you just like owning something vintage that can be pledged in a collateral loan or a personal loan, then you ought to know by now that proper vehicle maintenance can take you and your ride a long way. But just in case you’re neglecting something, here are some important car care tips for you to follow.

Replace Timing Belt
A vehicle’s timing belt connects the crankshaft to the camshaft, as well as allows you to control the timing of the engine’s valves. In short, it keeps your car’s engines running like clockwork. To keep your aging car fully functional, you need to change its belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

Change the Oil (and Oil Filter)
Next, you need to check the engine’s oil. If it’s dark and murky, drain your engine of the dirty oil to refill it with fresher ones. You might also need to replace the oil filter, so best get a new filter, too.

Maintain Other Fluids
And while you’re at it, you might as well check if the other fluids needed refilling or replacement. These include the brake fluid, the transmission fluid, and the engine coolant, among others. Each of them is vital if you want to prolong your already old car further.

Replace Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are also an essential part of the engine since they help it start ignition and assures your vehicle’s performance and efficiency. Neglecting it can damage your car’s mileage as well as cause combustion problems for its engines, so better so better examine and replace them whenever necessary.

Rotate Tires
Then there are your vehicle’s tires. Like other parts of your ride, you need to replace them once they get too worn out. However, to maximize its use, switch the front tires with the rear ones. The tires at the rear tend to get less worn out than the front ones, so you might as well take advantage of that before you buy a new set.

Others
Miscellaneous parts that also needed replacement for old cars include head and tail lights, car battery, and windshield wipers, among others. Check each of these parts regularly if you want your aging car to live longer.

Take Care of Your Old Car
Proper maintenance increases a vehicle’s lifespan as well as saves you a lot of money. Thus, if you own an aging car and you want to enjoy it as long as possible, you need to take care good care of it.


The best secondhand car units are here in GoDrive. If you happen to be interested in applying for a financing product to drive a pre-loved unit home immediately, just click here.


Featured Image: Pixabay.com

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How to Take Care of Your Aging Car

Through new technologies, we now enjoy an array of fuel-efficient cars to choose from, with automakers and even car financing companies offering a slew of vehicles for everyone to enjoy. If you’re currently looking for a more fossil-fuel-friendly auto to drive in, then here are a few models to consider:

Honda Insight
Capable of making 54 miles per gallon (mpg), the Insight is regarded as a fuel economy champ by both its makers and fans. The sedan is highly inspired by the Honda Civic, sharing many of its strengths like a comfortable ride, a roomy rear seat, and secure handling. It sports a gas system with electrical assistance, and you can switch from gas to electrical power as you prefer.

Chevrolet Colorado Duramax
The present Chevy Colorado model is a game changer not only when it comes to fuel efficiency, but also as a pickup truck. It sports General Motors’ 2.8-liter Duramax four-cylinder engine (allowing it to run on diesel power), and its mid-size pickup truck segment is revitalized. Plus, it has many tech features and off-road capabilities.

Mazda CX-3
Fusing the features of small hatchbacks to the taller and boxier bodies and all-wheel drive capabilities of traditional SUVs, the CX-3 has attractive styling, a well-designed engine, and a fine-tuned chassis. However, what makes this model so energy saving is the fact that it can be used either as a front-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive, with a fuel economy rate of 31 and 29 mpg combined, respectively.

Toyota Prius Prime
The Prime is very much like the regular Toyota Prius, except it has an electrical power system that makes it capable of running up to 23 miles on electricity only. Most of the other features found in Prius vehicles are included in this Prime plug-in, including the gas engine, full-throttle acceleration capabilities, and the infotainment system with its large touch screen.

Hyundai Ioniq
Challenging Toyota’s Prius Prime in terms of performance and fuel-efficiency is Hyundai’s Ioniq. Evoking the same hatchback configuration and silhouette exhibited by its rival, the Ioniq is capable of running up to 52 mpg. It has a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that can dish out around 139 Hp, and like other hybrids, it can drive at low speeds on electric power alone.

Go Fuel-Efficient
Fuel-efficient cars not only help you save a lot of money, but they also make great collateral should you ever apply for a car collateral loan. Plus, they make very stylish rides. So if you’re out there car-hunting, better go for the more fossil-fuel-friendly options available.


If you're looking around for the best secondhand car deals, simply click here.


Featured Image: Pixabay.com

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The Most Fuel Efficient Cars You Can Buy This 2019