25
Jan
2020

How to Scrap Your Car For The Most Money

We all know when a car is nearing the end of its life. It’s never pretty, but it’s a fact of life: as well as cars can be made, they are not immortal. If the car is really near the end of its useable life, it will be difficult to sell to someone else, and you could be liable if something goes wrong. Rather than let that old clunker waste away in your garage, it can be put to use and pad your pockets. Also, scrapping the car is a form of recycling: your car’s parts will be used to create new cars. While scrapping your car can be a confusing process, take a quick look at our guide below to get some quick tips to make the process easier, and hopefully more profitable.

 

Remove Your Personal Belongings

Before you get rid of your car, make sure everything you own is out of it. Make sure to check the glove compartment, center console, door pockets, the trunk, your CD player, between the seats, and any hidden cargo areas.

 

Scrap the Most Valuable Parts

Now you are ready to scrap your car. One of the most valuable parts of your car is its GPS System, so remove that before selling the car to get some extra money by selling it separately.

 

Your exhaust system is another valuable part of your car. A replacement exhaust system can be worth $500-$1,000, so if yours is in good repair, remove it and sell it separately. They are always in high demand.

The catalytic converter in your car is another source of value. Every car built after 1975 has one in them, they reduce the toxic gases and emissions that come out of your car. Since every car needs one, they are in high demand.

If you have an upgraded audio system in your car, that will be worth some money as well. As a matter of fact, any parts of your car that have been upgraded since you bought the car will have extra value, so remember to remove those from the car’s frame.

Bumpers are also valuable, as the newer ones contain a mixture of fiberglass, steel, aluminum, and plastic to help protect the passengers. Depending on the make an model of your car, it could be worth a few hundred dollars.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of all the valuable parts of your car, just some examples. You’ll need to be careful as you remove all these parts, and if you want the best prices, you’ll want to sell each of them individually. For any trash or debris that you need to get rid of, contact Lakeland Dumpster Rental for their premium roll off dumpster rentals.

Junk Your Car

When deciding which junkyard to use, it’s a smart idea to call around for a few different quotes. Describe your car to them and the parts you are looking to sell. The more metal in your car, the more valuable it is, so an SUV is more valuable than a sedan, for example. We hope this short guide on scrapping your car has been helpful.

Posted by in auto salvage
15
Jan
2020

How to Choose a Good Mechanic

When evaluating which mechanic to pick to work on your car, there may be a number of factors at play in your decision. Your car might be broken down already so you are eager to get it fixed. There might be tons of mechanics in town so it’s hard to make a decision. You may not know a lot about cars, so it will be tough to figure out if you are getting a fair shake. Don’t worry about it, because whether you are choosing a handyman or a mechanic, we have a few simple tips you can use to make the best decision.

 

  1. Look for a Highly Reviewed Mechanic Online

These days doing a quick Google or Yelp search for a mechanic can turn up a lot of promising results. Definitely read the reviews and call around to see how their customer service is on the phone. Another tip is to check out the Mechanic Files on CarTalk, they have over 30,000 mechanics on their site with tons of reviews.

 

  1. Check the AAA Approved Auto Repair Network

You actually don’t even need AAA to check their network of approved mechanics. All AAA approved mechanics offer 12 month/12,000 mile warranties on all repairs, so you get that extra level of security with your repair.

 

  1. Ask Questions

When you find a few mechanics you want to approach, here are a few questions you should have on hand to ask them:

  1. How many years have you been in business? How many years of experience do you have?
  2. Are all of your mechanics ASE-certified? What type of training do they have?
  3. Do you use new, used, OEM, or after-market parts?
  4. Do you guarantee your estimates?
  5. What are your payment policies?
  6. Do you offer loaner cars or an Uber ride while your car is in the shop?

 

  1. Ask to See the Problem

Many times when you hire a mechanic they are going to “discover” a host of other problems with your car. It never hurts to ask if you can see the problem that they are claiming your car has. If there is really a problem, it shouldn’t be a problem for the mechanic to show it to you and explain the situation. If they give you a funny answer, that should raise a red flag for you.

 

We know that your car is one of your most important possessions, so when something is wrong, it can be very distressing. Follow these tips and take your time with picking a mechanic, and you’ll be in good hands.  

Posted by in Auto Repair
30
Dec
2019

Heavy Duty Trucks for Heavy Duty Jobs

Heavy Duty Trucks for Heavy Duty Jobs

 

When you hire a construction or disposal company to get rid of large amounts of waste, a standard pickup or SUV isn’t going to cut it. You need a specially designed vehicle made for hauling large loads, namely, a dump or roll off truck. These trucks are characterized by their rectangular shape, having an open container on top, and wheels which roll and tilt the dumpster (hence the name, “roll off”).

 

History of the Roll Off Dumpster

 

While it may seem like dump trucks are commonly found in this day and age, they are actually less than 100 years old. In 1960, a hauler by the name of Harold Alexander submitted a patent for an ingenious yet inexpensive system for loading and moving large waste containers on trucks. Named “roll off” boxes, they had much higher capacities than the other detachable containers at the time which could only hold around 1-3 cubic yards of material.

 

Innovations in his design included a cable-and-winch hoist, which used a hook carried on roller tracks. Additionally, he used a “box lock” which automatically secured the back of the container to the boom, obviating the need for ratchet tie downs. This allowed the entire loading procedure to be conducted from inside the cab, truly an innovative concept. Harold originally developed this design to gain a competitive edge against his rival Portland, OR haulers, however he eventually sold his design to Gar Wood Industries. Harold went on to patent more roll off innovations throughout his life, continuously improving the efficiency of the hoists and motors. His inventions have allowed haulers worldwide to more easily and efficiently transport billions of pounds of debris.

 

Common Roll Off Trucks

 

These days there are a few big players in the dump truck space that you may recognize:

 

  1. Mack Trucks: A very popular option, Mack trucks are known for their premium interiors, chrome accents, and strong engines that can even haul heavy loads on mountains and bumpy terrain. They even offer models with double bunk condos so drivers can comfortably rest inside the cab without having to venture outside.

 

  1. Hino Trucks: Hino trucks have exceptionally smooth and quiet rides on highways, making them suitable for interstate drives. Hino trucks are also exceptionally easy to service and maintain, as tipping the hood can be done with literally just one finger.

 

  1. Peterbilt Trucks: Peterbilt trucks are known for their boxy design and on-road efficiency. These trucks are designed for long-term use and fuel efficiency, and offer many options for customization including single or sleeper cabs.

 

Besides these three brands, other manufacturers of roll off trucks include Ford, Kenworth, Volvo, Freightliner, Heil, HME, Western Star, and more. If you are looking for the best dumpster rental company in Fayetteville, just follow the link to be connected to our partner, Fayetteville Dumpster Rental. They have a top of the line fleet and excellent customer service, and we are proud to support them.

 

Buying a Roll Off Trucks

 

Like any vehicle, purchasers can acquire a dump truck brand new from the manufacturer, or used from private owners or resellers. At the time of writing, new truck generally costs around $50,000, depending on the selected brand, options, and location. Top of the line trucks can even cost upwards of $100,000, so there is a quite a price differential in the market. Used trucks can be found from $12,000 to around $60,000, depending on the brand, age, wear and tear, and history of the truck. It’s important to do you research and know what you need when you are in the market for a roll off truck.

Posted by in Trucks
26
Dec
2019

Tips for Choosing a Windshield Repair Company

When deciding which windshield repair company you should choose, the choices can be overwhelming. There are often many repair shops in the same neighborhood, and when you have something wrong with your car, you likely want to make a decision fast. It’s your baby after all! However, we aren’t all made of money, so you’ll likely want to compare some quotes around town before settling on a provider. Here are some tips to keep in mind the next time your windshield has a crack or chip.

 

  1. If your windshield is being replaced, ask if the replacement will be OEM or aftermarket. OEM means Original Equipment Manufacturer, meaning that the windshield is coming from the manufacturer of your car. These windshields are higher quality (and usually more expensive) than aftermarket windshields, but they work better and are usually higher quality. Aftermarket windshields can be lower quality in the strength of the glass and can have wavy lines in them, but you will likely save some money.

 

  1. Ask if they accept insurance and what providers they accept. Depending on your provider, all or most of the replacement may be covered, depending on your deductible.

 

  1. Make sure to ask the company if they are certified by the AGRSS, the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standard. This is a certification any windshield provider should have to ensure that you are getting a quality repair.

 

  1. Note that it may take some time for the adhesives and placement of the windshield to “settle” into your car. Depending on the weather it can take anywhere from a couple days to a full week for the windshield to lie completely flush with your car, but this is completely normal.

 

  1. Many windshield repair companies offer mobile service for an additional fee. If you have a busy schedule and can’t be bothered to make it out, ask around town for this service. If you have the time and want to save some money, it might be worth it to bring your car in for service. Very often your windshield replacement will be done within an hour if the technicians service you right away.

 

  1. If you have a chip in your windshield small than the size of a nickel, you may be able to get away with a windshield repair instead of a replacement. This will be much cheaper for you. Talk with your technician to make sure that your windshield is up to safety regulation.

 

Getting a crack or chip in your windshield is never fun – but that’s what we have insurance for! With so many auto glass companies in existence it should be no problem to find one that services your make and model. Best of luck with your windshield repair!

Posted by in Auto Repair
13
Nov
2019

How Did Germany Become The Flag Bearer of The European Car Industry?

Europe is known for its ever-growing automotive industry. Every year, millions are cars are manufactured in different European countries, which are then imported in different parts of the world. People have a huge craze for European cars because they perceive them as a status symbol. Of all the European countries, Germany has the maximum number of car brands and their cars are so beautiful and reliable that even leaders of many states use German cars.

There are many reasons why you choose German cars. Indeed, the automotive industry is known for its rigor and its major technological advances. Also, buying a German car is an investment to enjoy the comfort of sumptuous cars and also work for a better environment.

A very rigorous automotive industry

The major German car brands such as Mercedes, Porsche, Audi or BMW are very meticulous about the manufacturing of their models. Manufacturers, subcontractors, and distributors are subject to a huge discipline set out in their specifications. This rigor contributes to the high reputation of the quality of cars “Made in Germany”. Mercedes illustrates very well this German rigor by the obligation, which is imposed on the dealers not to leave a car when it breaks down on the highway.

German automotive industry at the forefront of technological innovation

Since the manufacture of the first car at the end of the 19th century by Karl Benz, the German car industry is still a global player just behind Japan, the United States, and China. This is explained by the technological advances of the German manufacturers. German industry is responsible for the development of engines that consume less than 3 liters per 100 km spread around the world. Germans are also performing well in digital and connected cars. They were the first to install electronic processes and help drive in cars.

Buying a German car is about protecting the environment

German car brands have sufficient technical expertise to initiate innovations aimed at introducing radical technological changes. The German car industry spends a large part of its human and financial resources for research and development. In terms of investment, nearly 30 billion euros are spent on research and development, led by 93,000 people on average. Every day, German laboratories file several patents for cleaner and healthier technologies.

A wide range of very popular car brands

Many luxury car brands of quality are of German manufacture. Therefore, if you opt for the purchase of a German car, you have the choice between a multitude of major brands such as Volkswagen, Audi, Bugatti, Bentley, Lamborghini, Porsche, Skoda, Opel, Alpina, Bitter, Gumpert, ISDERA, Keinath and many more.

 
Posted by in European Cars
13
Nov
2019

What To Look For In An Auto Salvage Company

When it comes to salvaged vehicles, one thing is certain: they are only as good as the company you bought them from. It is always good to buy an auto-salvaged vehicle from a reputed company because they can ensure you of the quality of their vehicles and give you the best deals as well. You will also come across several companies that don’t care about reputations at all, but their focus is entirely on sales.

This strategy may help them generate some profits in the short term, but the strategy is going to backfire in the long run for sure. It is very easy to identify such companies, who don’t share a credible piece of advice to customers and lure them into buying an auto-salvage vehicle, which is either overpriced and/or irrelevant to them. To find a reliable auto salvage company, you need to consider a few things, which I’m going to share with you now.

Here are some points that your auto salvage company needs to readily divulge:

1.      A complete history of the vehicle: It is the prerogative of the company to provide all the details about the vehicles, as to how old it is, how many damages were sustained by it and other details to give a clear picture to the clients about the vehicle. Hiding such details can backfire on the company if the buyer gets to know about those from someone else and that too with proofs.

2.      Inform the buyers whether the vehicle is street legal or not: There are certain modifications in the car, which are not permitted by the government, and if any such car is found on the road, then the owner will be slapped with a heavy fine. The last thing that a buyer wants after buying an auto salvage vehicle is getting into legal tussles with the state or federal government.

3.      Inform buyers if the vehicle can be insured: It is understandable that auto salvage companies are not insurance agents, but being in this field for several years helps them understand many things related to the auto business, which include insurance. They can at least tell whether the vehicles are insurable or not. Insurable vehicles are those vehicles that have not sustained significant damages and are not at high risk for the insurer.

4.      Inform the buyer whether the vehicle has been clipped or rebuilt: The situation of rebuilding or clipping a vehicle reaches when the vehicle has sustained severe damages. To rebuild the vehicle, parts are obtained from other vehicles, which is absolutely fine in terms of driving, but the problem arises at the time of insuring such vehicles because insurers will avoid insuring such vehicles. In certain cases, people will not be granted a license to drive such vehicles.

You must choose an auto salvage company that works for the interest of its buyers. Sure, they have to make a profit out of each sale they make, but that profit shouldn’t come by unfair means. Customer satisfaction should be their priority because if customers are satisfied, then they will eventually get more business. 

 
Posted by in auto salvage

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