5 Things You Should Consider Before Buying An Extended Warranty For Your Nissan Vehicle

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Are you planning on buying a Nissan?

Car buyers impulsively spend most of their time researching on what vehicle to buy and paying for it. But very few consumers put much effort into researching the add-ons that they will be put forth in the dealership’s office. The lack of preparation can cost you thousands if you don’t know about the add-ons that are worth it and which ones are not.

Buyers will usually be offered an extended warranty of some kind. An extended car warranty is the repair coverage that antes up after the typical manufacturer auto warranty expires. This extended auto warranty will cover most sizable breakdowns and stabilize repairs since parts and labour prices fluctuate over time. The automaker/ a third-party administrator can offer this form of car warranty. Should you consider an extended warranty on a new or used car? It depends on five primary factors. We’ll guide you through the decision-making process.

1. Do You Need To Buy An Extended Warranty?

Suppose you plan to keep using your vehicle for more than three years than the answer is YES! you should opt for it otherwise as well if you want to be on the safer side, just if you change your mind and decide to keep using your car for a more extended period. It gives peace of mind to know that even after your factory warranty expires, the extended warranty has still got your back.

Before you decide, you should keep in mind the unforeseen expenses if some component of your car breaks down. That depends on factors like the model and age of your car and your driving habits. But to give you an idea of the cost to repair a Nissan, here are the common repairs reported by Nissan drivers, according to data from RepairPal:

Average Repair Estimates for Nissans in 2020
· $557–$648 for a Nissan Rogue fuel pump replacement
· $1,213–$1,251 for a Nissan Sentra catalytic converter replacement
· $691–$1,063 for a Nissan Versa AC compressor replacement
· $3,142–$3,899 for a Nissan GT-R head gasket replacement
· $590–$657 for a Nissan Pathfinder brake master cylinder replacement
If you want to avoid these unwanted future expenses and want a hassle-free ride for years to come, you should strongly consider buying an extended Nissan car warranty.

2. Who Is Backing The Extended Car Warranty?

Dealerships typically offer extended warranties on new cars at the time of sale. If you’re buying a comparatively low-mileage, used car from a dealership, there’s a good chance you’ll be offered a warranty, too.

Most dealerships offer third-party warranties from companies with different track records. If you are purchasing an extended car warranty, make sure it is backed by the a good 3rd party Nissan extended warranty company like A-Protect Warranty.

If you consider coverage for a specific purpose, such as a Nissan rental car benefit or higher roadside assistance towing limit than the automaker offered, check for online reviews to see what others say about it.

Some of the benefits of a third party dealership are:

  • More Options for Service
  • Interest Payments on an Extended Warranty
  • Quick and Easy Policy Transfer

3. Have You Shopped For The Best Price?

The dealership you’re buying the vehicle from may say that the extended car warranty price is non-negotiable. Well, that might not be the case. If you check with some other extended warranty providers, you’ll find a lower asking price for the same merchandise. Or they might be willing to negotiate.

The cost of any Nissan extended warranty will vary by provider. Usually, you can expect the cost to be based on the below-mentioned factors:

  • Amount of coverage
  • Age of your car
  • Mileage
  • Make and model of your car.
  • If or not you have a luxury vehicle

4. What’s Covered In The Warranty?

Typically, two types of extended warranty coverage are offered:
Inclusionary and exclusionary.

An inclusionary warranty covers items that are listed explicitly in the contract.
An exclusionary warranty has a detailed list of those items that are not covered by the agreement.

If you want to have an exclusionary contract then, you should go through line-by-line to make sure that the expensive items which may fail are not excluded. Exclusionary policies typically come with higher price tags than inclusionary policies.

5. Who Has The Best Nissan Used Car Extended Warranty?

There are plenty of extended warranty companies available to choose from, but working with a highly respected company like A-Protect can help you save your money in the long run. Finding a reputable warranty provider is the essential thing you can do while shopping for an extended warranty on a used car. To find an authentic provider that fits your needs, you’ll first need to decide between buying a warranty from a dealership or buying from a third-party warranty company.

Why get an extended warranty from A-Protect Warranty?

If your Nissan factory warranty has or is about to expire, it’s wise to consider extended warranty coverage. You may wonder, Is a Nissan extended warranty worth it? If you want to make the most out of your car’s life and keep your Nissan beyond the length of your manufacturer’s warranty terms, then choosing an extended warranty for your Nissan is the best way to save hundreds—possibly thousands—of dollars in the long run.

Contact now to get the Best Extended Warranty for your Nissan Today from A-Protect Warranty Corporation!

Visit A-Protect Warranty Corp. at the The Official Canadian International AutoShow on February 14-23, 2020. 

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Visit A-Protect Warranty Corp. at the The Official Canadian International AutoShow on February 14-23, 2020. 

Beware of Counterfeit Auto Parts – Only Get Certified Mechanics to Fix Your Car

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Counterfeiting takes place in every industry and the motor vehicle industry is certainly no exception. When counterfeiters become aware of the need for a particular product yet this product has a fairly high price tag, they see an opportunity to make a quick buck.
 

Inferior quality

While two products might look the same from the outside, the components inside can differ significantly. Auto manufacturers put all of their assembled vehicles and spare parts through various tests in order to ensure that they are up to safety standards. Inferior products can prove unsafe, unreliable and the bottom line is that they are a waste of money.
 

How different counterfeit auto parts put you at risk

If you are wondering about the real effect of a fake part on your car can affect you, your fellow travellers and other road users, here are some examples of the most common counterfeits you will find and why to avoid them:

Airbags are an essential safety feature today. They can really cushion the impact of an accident and prevent serious trauma. The timing of the deployment is critical as well as the deployment itself. Airbags work with a number of other safety mechanisms in the vehicle which means that they need to meet the manufacturer’s standards in order to be effective. Counterfeit varieties can easily fail and you will never know until it’s too late.
Drivetrain and engine components like various filters and spark plugs can result in engine failure if they are of the counterfeit variety. You can even risk a fire which is not something anyone wants to think about when driving short or long distances.
Brake pads are one of the most important safety features in your vehicle. Counterfeit brake pads have been found to be made from compressed grass, sawdust and even asbestos. These materials are not suitable for such an essential component. These materials disintegrate and smoke under pressure which makes them ineffective when it comes to stopping your vehicle.
Fake auto body parts are not only an eyesore, but they can also fail to protect the occupants of your vehicle in the event of an accident. Inferior quality and poor alignment are common problems associated with counterfeit car body parts.
Electrical components such as lights can result in an electrical failure and they even pose a fire risk.
Wheels are designed to withstand high speeds and challenging road surfaces. That said, the poor integrity of counterfeit wheels means that they will not hold up well under pressure.
Windscreens that are not original can displace or shatter. This can result in serious injury and it will also fail to protect you from potentially harmful objects like stones.

 

Keeping original parts affordable

The main concern for vehicle owners is how they will be able to afford original parts for their car. Since they are so expensive and there are counterfeit alternatives at a fraction of the price, how can they afford the original parts? When you buy a new car, it will usually be backed by a warranty from the manufacturer. Once the terms of this warranty are reached (time limit or mileage), you will need to invest in an extended car warranty. If you buy a used vehicle, you can also invest in a used car warranty. What these warranties do for the vehicle owner is offer security and peace of mind. When your car needs repairs or maintenance, you can rest assured that your warranty will cover the use of original parts. You will not have to pay a huge sum of money for these parts out of your pocket and you can drive with confidence knowing that your car is in the best possible condition.

 

At A-Protect Warranty, we understand that different drivers and different cars have their own unique needs. We are here to cater to those warranty needs by offering a wide variety of packages. Call us today at 1-866-660-6444 for more information on the best package for you.

Extended Car Warranty for Used Car and Why do you Need it

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The roads are full of unpredictable and potentially devastating risks. Driving is a necessary part of our lives which means that there are some risks that are simply unavoidable. The good news is that, with the right coverage, you can at least prepare for the unexpected. An extended used car warranty offers a number of benefits. Find out more about what such a warranty can do for you and your peace of mind.


What is an extended car warranty?



If you buy a new vehicle, it will come with some kind of warranty from the manufacturer. This warranty usually lasts for a set number of kilometers or a certain number of years – whichever comes first. Once this initial warranty has expired, you will no longer be covered. Repairs and maintenance will all come out of your own pocket.
An extended warranty is exactly what the name suggests – an extension of your coverage. Even though you no longer have your original warranty, you can select an extended plan to cover a great number of repairs that are bound to come up in the future.


Extended car warranty benefits


High Repair Costs

Many people think that small parts of their car will not cost much to replace. The fact of the matter is that it’s not only the cost of the part but also the labor involved. In so many cases, the cost of labor can push up the price far beyond what the repairs are even worth. If you have an extended car warranty and the repairs are covered by your policy, you will not need to worry about this expense. Not to mention the more expensive parts that can break at the most inconvenient times.


Peace of Mind

Whether you are driving around town or long distance, you do not want to spend your time behind the wheel worrying about something breaking on your car. When your car is covered, you can focus on the road instead. Should your car let you down, you can take the necessary steps to claim from your warranty.


Dependable Breakdown Assistance

Getting stuck on the side of the road is stressful for any driver. Your car warranty will cover a number of issues and there are policies that include breakdown assistance and towing. Make sure that your policy includes this essential service so that you don’t have to worry about the added cost of having your vehicle towed.


Used vehicles Require More Care

Your new car will usually require little to no maintenance at first. A filter here and an oil change there will most likely suffice. As the vehicle ages, so too do all its parts. Every part of your vehicle has a so-called lifespan. Once it’s time is up – it’s up. The older the vehicle, the more can go wrong and the more it will cost in the end. This makes an extended coverage an essential safety net.


Maintain Higher Resale Value

Motor vehicle experts will agree that cars are an asset and an investment. However, they are not something that you are likely to hold on to for too long. You might decide to opt for a newer model in the future or another type of vehicle altogether. This means that your resale value is extremely important. Having a warranty means that you will not have to neglect your vehicle in any way. Provided you choose a package that covers all of your needs, your car will enjoy timely servicing and this helps maintain its value by minimizing depreciation.


Choosing the right plan for you

Different types of cars have different features. Vehicles can even differ from model to model or they can be ordered with special features included. There is also a difference when it comes to maintaining different types of engines. Which is why it is essential to choose the right plan to suit your needs.
If your car does not have 4WD, then you do not need a plan that covers this feature. By choosing a plan that suits your needs, you will save even more money in the short- and long-term. Similarly, if you have a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles, it’s best to opt for a more comprehensive plan.


Words of advice


Regular maintenance

Failing to maintain your vehicle can affect your warranty. Failing to maintain your car can also have other negative effects. Failing to change your oil regularly, for example, can seriously affect various working parts in the engine. Since your warranty will cover regular maintenance, there is no reason to put them off. It’s that much easier to stick to a regular maintenance schedule.


What is included and what is not

In some cases, you might not understand exactly what is included and what is not. For example, you might be provided with a rental vehicle in the event of an unexpected breakdown. However, there could be a limit on the number of days that this car will be provided for by the warranty. Make sure that you know exactly what is included so that you don’t have any unexpected repairs.


When and how to pay

When you sign up for an extended warranty, you need to make sure that you understand the claims process. Do you need to get authorization before having your vehicle towed or repaired? Can you expect reimbursement? These are questions every vehicle needs to ask. Make sure that you take notes and keep these notes in your vehicle with all relevant phone numbers and warranty details.


New or used parts

Another important question to ask before you sign is whether your vehicle will be fitted with new or used parts in the event of repairs. It is important to understand this as well as the weighing up the pros and cons of this clause in your warranty. Compare the cost of the warranty with the cost of new or used parts before making your decision.


Understand before you sign

Any contract can be full of legal terms and jargon. Do not sign on the dotted line until you are confident that you understand all of the terms of the agreement. Read all the fine print and, if there is something that you do not understand, you should always ask.

At A-Protect Warranty, We offer a wide range of used car warranty packages. From basic to luxury plans and everything in between, we offer a truly personalized approach to auto warranties. Contact us today at 1(866) 660-6444 for more information and help finding the perfect fit for your needs. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find the most affordable and practical used car

Expect the Unexpected: How Having a Used Car Warranty Helps You Save

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When purchasing a used vehicle, there are a number of concerns. The main one being car maintenance and repairs. Since the car is no longer brand new, you can expect wear and tear to have taken some toll on various working parts.

 

New Car Or Used Car

 
The first major decision that you will need to make when buying a car is whether you should opt for a new or used vehicle. A new car might sound like the most attractive option but, from a financial perspective, it’s not always the most affordable or practical. Remember, as soon as you drive your new car off the lot, its value will depreciate by 20%. Each year, the value of any vehicle will steadily decrease but that initial drop is quite startling. While a new car often comes with some kind of manufacturer warranty, the downside of buying a used car means that you might not get any such assurances, which is where a used car extended warranty comes in. Just because you are buying a used car, does not mean that you cannot protect your investment. That’s why so many people prefer to buy used cars along with an extended warranty.

 

Minor Repair Costs

 

Regular vehicle maintenance includes parts like your brakes and various filters (air, fuel, etc). After time, it’s not only these parts that need to be replaced, but more expensive parts like the water pump, fuel injectors, fuel pump, battery and the various parts that make up the air conditioner system of your vehicle as well. Each of these repairs can cost hundreds of dollars. An extended used car warranty can help cut down a big chunk of these repair costs, if not the entire sum.
 

Major Repair Costs

 

Even if you think that you can afford the smaller repairs, it’s time to consider those major ones. Replacing the transmission can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. An engine replacement costs even more. Sudden breakdowns occur more often than you think, and it’s always good to stay prepared and have a used car warranty to fall back on. 

 

Why Can’t I Save on my Own Instead?

 

One of the most common arguments is that you can create your own emergency fund. There are two problems with this. Firstly, it’s easy to forget or simply not add to your savings every month. You might end up spending beyond your means for one or more months which means that you will not have enough to set aside money for vehicle repairs. Secondly, you can easily use your savings for anything else whereas your used car warranty is strictly for vehicle repairs.

 

It’s also worth considering how you will manage if more than one repair is necessary within a short period of time. At A-Protect Warranty, we offer a variety of used car extended warranty options to suit your needs and budget. Call 1-866-660-6444 today to get the coverage and peace of mind you deserve.

How Often Should You Do Car Maintenance?

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No matter the make, model or age of your vehicle, one thing is always for sure – your car will require regular maintenance. Two main questions often arise when it comes to maintenance. The first being how often you should perform maintenance and, the second, what parts require attention? Here are the facts you need to keep your car in top condition.

Check the manual

The owner’s manual of each vehicle includes a wealth of information. Included in this information should also be a maintenance schedule. If it has a chart, you can keep track of past maintenance and schedule future appointments with ease. If it does not include a charge, you can always make your own. Your driving habits and road conditions will also influence maintenance frequency.

Check the computer

onboard computerOnboard computers trigger easy-to-understand alerts. A light on your dashboard will appear when a specific problem arises. You can consult your owner’s manual if you are not sure what the light means.

Essential car maintenance

While some parts on your car can go for years without any special care, others need to be tended to at least once a year – depending on driving conditions and mileage. Here are some of the most important maintenance tasks that you should have performed according to schedule and without delays. Putting these tasks on hold can severely affect how your car functions and your safety.

Oil

The oil in your engine is responsible for keeping everything running smoothly. Apart from choosing the right type of all for your car, you also need to check the quality, viscosity, and oil level. Depending on the vehicle make and model, you might want to check the oil level once the motor is warm or, in other cases, when it is cold. Once warm, the oil level will drop as the oil is pumped out of the reservoir and into the engine. Dirty oil needs to be changed and, if the oil becomes too thin it will not provide effective lubrication. Keep your eye out for leaks by keeping your engine clean too. When checking your oil, make sure your car is parked on level ground. Remove the dipstick, wipe it off and place it back before removing and reading the level.

Tires

changing a car tireApart from changing your tires based on the weather requirements, you should also pay close attention to wear and tear. To get the most out of your tires, you should always store them properly when not in use. Check the tire pressure and inflate or deflate according to the owner’s manual. Check for visible damage and inspect the tire wall for any cracks. Check the tire tread and make sure that excess or uneven wear has not occurred. Replace your tires if they are excessively worn or damaged. Inspect all tires – including the spare.

Air filters

Filters are essential for keeping dirt and dust out of your engine. Make sure that you stick to your replacement schedule for best results. This applies to all air filters including your engine air filter and cabin air filter.

Breaks

Different parts of the braking system will require replacement at different stages. While your brake pads might need to be replaced more often, other parts can last a lot longer. These parts can be measured by a professional and they can usually tell you how many more miles you can safely drive. If you have any part of your braking system replaced, make sure that you note the mileage and take it easy for the first few trips. Ask your mechanic about wearing them in safely. Noisy brakes could be due to dirt or a greater problem. Never hesitate to have them checked.

Battery

Batteries usually last several years but the weather can take its toll – especially the winter. In the winter, make sure that you start your car every day to prevent the battery from losing its charge. Older batteries should be replaced before the winter or they can let you down.

Keep your vehicle on the road and your loved ones safe by performing regular vehicle checks and maintenance. To prevent any nasty surprises, make sure that your car is covered by a comprehensive warranty. Call A-Protect Warranty today at 1-866-6606444 for a warranty designed to suit your needs.

What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start

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It can be especially stressful when you get in your car, turn the key, and your car will not start. You are obviously on your way somewhere which means that you might very well end up late, which is often more troubling than anything else. Here are some of the most common causes to consider when your car won’t start and some tips on how to deal with them.

Key turning but nothing happens:


Listen

car keyTake a moment to listen to your car. Even if it has not started, it could still be trying to tell you something with those little noises it makes or does not make. If you turn the key and the engine doesn’t crank at all or you hear a clicking noise, it could be the battery.  All batteries have a lifespan and it’s good to remember that the cold weather can seriously drain them. Batteries need to be recharged regularly and this is done by running the engine. If you do not start your car for a long period of time or even for just a few days in the winter, your battery can easily lose its charge.

Lights

In order to check for battery problems, you should try turning on the headlights. If the lights are dim, the battery could be dead or there could be poor battery connections.  Take a moment to think of whether or not you happened to forget the lights on the night before.

Connections

It’s also worth checking the battery connections. Clean and tighten them before you try to start again.

Jump-start

Call a friend, neighbour, or auto service to jump-start your car. If this works, you should have the battery tested and possibly replaced. If your battery is new, you might want to have the alternator checked. The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while your car is running. If it is faulty, then your car has been running purely on battery power and you will need a new alternator.

If you hear a click

If you hear a quiet click sound when you turn the key, you could try a technique called cycling the key to start the car.  Here’s how:
Turn the key from ‘off’ to ‘start’ ten times in a row.
Wait a few minutes.
Try to start the engine now.
If this does not work, repeat once more.
If it still does not work, it’s time for a different approach.

Some shifting

If you hear absolutely no sound when turning the key – not even a click – you can try this shift trick:
Apply your foot to the brake pedal.
Shift the vehicle into neutral.
Try to start the car.
If this does not work, shift into park and try again.
This trick can help reestablish electrical contact inside the transmission. If your car does start thanks to this trick, you should have it checked out by a professional urgently.

Other possible issues

your car in winterIf the engine cranks but the car won’t start, there could be any number of problems and it’s best to have a technician take a look. A frozen fuel line in the winter is common if your fuel tank is running low. Keep your fuel tank at least half full. That way the condensation from the fuel will not reach the fuel line. If it can’t reach the fuel line, it can’t freeze in the fuel line and you won’t have to worry about frozen lines in the winter. Driving in deep snow and wet conditions can also cause wet spark plugs and similar components. A trained technician will know just how to diagnose and repair such problems. Remember, if your vehicle is under any kind of warranty, you should always file your claim before hiring a mechanic in order to ensure that the repairs are covered.

Wear and tear are a given when it comes to all cars.  That is why it is so important to make sure that you are not caught by surprise. With A-Protect Warranty, you can enjoy the best used car extended warranty coverage designed to suit your needs. Call us today at 1-866-660-6444.

The Dos and Don’ts Travelling in the Winter

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Winter driving is a skill that not all vehicle owners have mastered. There are so many more risks to consider when driving in such weather and the roads can be particularly tricky to navigate. Here are some of the most important Dos and Don’ts.

Dos for winter driving

Prevention is always best and you can avoid many problems by inspecting your car before winter.
Here’s what you need to check:

Have a mechanic perform a ‘winter check’ on your vehicle. This includes looking at the coolant, brakes, and more.
Check for cracked or frayed belts under the hood.
Get any needed repairs taken care of promptly.
Test the battery to make sure it will get you through the winter. Cold weather takes an extra toll on battery life.
Replace the battery if necessary.
Have snow tires or at least all-season tires fitted. If you live in an area that receives heavy snow, you should know that all-season tires are not ideal and snow tires are the safest bet.
car inspection Check the tire pressure since it will go down in winter.
Keep a set of tire chains in your trunk.
Top off your windshield wiper fluid. Consider using a winter blend for these cold months.
Check your windshield wiper blades for tears and other damage. Replace if necessary.
Check all the lights on your car and make sure they are working.
Keep an ice scraper in your car at all times.
Keep jumper cables in your car at all times.
Keep your gas tank at least half full during winter to prevent frozen fuel lines.

Now for the emergency kit:

Flashlight with spare batteries
Flares and/or reflectors
Warm blanket.
Small snow shovel, sand, salt, or something similar if you get stuck.
Basic tool kit
Emergency survival items including warm clothes, medical supplies, non-perishable foods.
Mobile phone
Always tell somebody where you will be travelling and set a schedule for checking in if you are taking a long trip. If you do not check in and can’t be reached for a long duration of time, your contact person can notify the authorities of your travel route and schedule. This way, they will know where to find you.

Winter Driving advice:

Plan ahead and run errands before a storm hits
Check weather reports
Dress warm
Drive slowly for at least a mile to warm your car up. This is easier on the engine than warming up in the driveway.
Accelerate slower in the snow
Brake slower
Turn slower
Keep an extra distance between yourself and other cars for braking purposes.
Anticipate turns and traffic lights.
Pick up momentum before approaching a hill.
Take your time and stay calm.
Always stay alert and look for pedestrians.
Practice winter driving in an empty parking lot and feel free to lose control a little so that you know how to bring your car back under control.

Don’ts for winter driving

winter driving Never warm your car up in a closed space, as it can risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
Don’t warm your car up by idling. Drive slowly for a mile instead.
Don’t tailgate.
Don’t brake abruptly.
Try not to stop completely unless you have to. It can be difficult to get going again.
Don’t stop your car while going uphill.
Don’t drive with summer, worn, or bald tires.
Don’t accelerate too quickly when going uphill, your tires will most likely spin.
Avoid sharp turns.
Don’t use your parking brake while driving. You could lose control because your car will start spinning.
Don’t use cruise control, you may lose traction.
Do not over-correct if you do spin out. Instead, steer into the skid.
Don’t brake if your car spins. It will be more difficult to regain traction.
Don’t assume that everyone else on the road knows how to drive in the snow.

User your common sense and listen to your gut instinct. If you are too nervous to drive during poor weather, have an experienced driver take the wheel or wait until the worst conditions have passed. Remember that you should always have an auto warranty that you can rely on should any unpleasant incidents occur while you are travelling. Contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 for the best and most affordable used car extended warranties to set your mind at ease.

Things You Need to Look Out for When Buying a Used Car

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The price of a new car these days is enough to make anyone’s knees feel weak. Add to this the rapid depreciation of value and it’s easy to see why so many people opt for used vehicles instead. Used, pre-owned, or previously loved, no matter how you put it, these vehicles have all been driven and possibly put through their paces. From a buyers perspective, it is essential that you keep the following checklist in mind before you sign a deal.

Physical inspection

buying a used carCheck the car inside and out. As you take a walk around the vehicle, don’t be afraid to kneel down and look at the way the panels of the vehicle side, front, rear are aligned. Check for dents, rust or any other signs of damage. Inspect the upholstery and trim with care. If there are seat covers, ask the owner to show you what’s hiding underneath. If possible, take a peek underneath the car. Again, look for any signs of damage or rust. Your inspection is best done during the day. At night you can easily miss a lot.

Test drive

You can test a new car before buying so why not test a used one? It’s important that you feel how the car handles and take note of every little detail. Do yourself a favour and don’t drive with the radio on. Try to encourage silence so that you can hear the motor, listen to the gears shift, and pay special attention when taking a corner. You should not only take gentle corners either; try turning the car around completely (this is best done in an empty parking lot) and listen for sounds like knocking noises. A quick trip on a highway will also help you determine how the car handles at higher speeds and if any rattles or vibrations develop. Test all of the electronic and electrical features too.

Leak test

A leak test is done when you park the car in a clear area of a road or a clean parking bay and allow it to run for at least 30 seconds. Move the car and exit it to inspect the area for any fresh fluids that could be leaking from the vehicle. Remember, if the car has an air conditioner and you are using it, it could be condensation that dropped on the ground. Green fluid can indicate an anti-freeze leak while black fluid is usually oil. Any leaks of this nature are a red flag.

Consider a mechanic

car mechanical testYou can always have your trusted mechanic perform mechanical tests for you. Most cars can be connected to diagnostic machines and you can have the car placed up on a lift to get a good look underneath. A mechanic’s trained eye can save you a lot of money and grief.

Know the make and model

Know what you are getting into by reading about the type of car you want to buy. Read about common problems, positive attributes, and customer reviews.

Price check

Used car shopping is definitely about negotiating. Don’t let the dealer take advantage of you. Determine the official value of the vehicle (also known as the book value) before negotiating. Any damage to the car constitutes a lowering of the price. You can get estimates on how much the repairs would cost and have the seller lower their price by at least that amount.

Check the VIN

The VIN is the Vehicle Identification Number. Check the VIN to make sure that it is not a cloned number used to sell a stolen car. The VIN number will also help you find out more about repair and part replacement costs down the line.

Vehicle history

This report will reveal the ownership history, any title problems, service points, accidents, and so on. It’s best to know what the car has been through before you buy.

Don’t rush

You should not feel like you have to buy in a hurry. Your used car is an investment and it’s worth considering your options wisely.

Don’t forget to make sure that your car is always covered by the right warranty. For extended auto warranties to suit your personal needs, contact A-Protect Warranty at 1-866-660-6444 today.

Must-Have Items in Your Car’s Winter Emergency Kit

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Never underestimate the power of Mother Nature during the winter months! She can send some pretty harsh conditions our way at the drop of a hat. Like the old saying goes, always hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Therefore, it is important to keep a winter emergency kit in your car. During these cold, snowy months, there many important precautions to take whenever you get behind the wheel. Having the necessary supplies can literally mean the difference between life and death in some cases! You never know when your car might get a punctured tire, run out of fuel, experience a technical or mechanical failure, or even slip off the road. Here are some of the most important items to keep in your car at all times during the winter.

Top winter emergency kit essentials:

flashlight Flashlight with extra batteries or a hand-crank powered flashlight. Test your flashlight before you pack it and make sure that the spare batteries are in a sealed package to prevent loss of charge.
Jumper cables should you need to jump start your car or even help somebody else out.
First Aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, gauze, adhesive tape, gloves, bandages, etc.
Bottled water.
Multi-purpose tool like a Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman.
Reflective warning triangles and/or road flares.
Charged mobile phone and power bank for recharging if needed.

Other essential items:

A small fire extinguisher in the event of a car fire.
A tire gauge to check the pressure of your tires. Be sure to check the spare too!
A jack and lug wrench for changing a tire.
Rags, gloves, and hand cleaner (like baby wipes) to keep your hands warm and clean when performing any mechanical checks or changing a tire.
Duct tape for all its versatile uses.
Foam tire sealant for small tire punctures (just to get you from where you are to a tire professional).
A rain poncho or two.
Non-perishable, high-energy foods like dried fruit, peanut butter, and granola bars.
A battery or hand-cranked powered radio.
Box of matches and a lighter.
Cash and spare change.
Paper maps just in case you lose phone signal or you want to save your battery.

Items specific for winter trips:

Blankets, winter hats, and gloves.
Ice scraper.
Folding snow shovel.
A bag of sand for traction if you get stuck.
Tow strap and tire chains.
Hand warmers.
Sleeping bag(s) for long trips.
Winter boots for long trips.

winter emergency kit

It’s important to remember that your winter emergency supplies are not only for your safety, they may end up helping others as well. Not everyone leaves their home prepared. Some people think that just because they are just taking a quick drive to another town they don’t need to lug all that stuff along. By being prepared, you could very well be the help a fellow driver desperately needs. Many of the items on this list apply strictly to winter. Once the weather becomes warmer, you will no longer need things like your shovel or sandbags. That being said, it is worth setting aside a special place for these items to be stored during the summer so that they are easy to find when winter comes around again. Each item should be checked and tested before packing it into your vehicle. You should also keep this list handy so that you can refer to it every year. Some items will need to be replaced if they are old or damaged. Some items expire (like your medical supplies). Your fire extinguisher will also need to be inspected by an authorized professional on a regular basis in order to ensure that it still works properly.

Apart from stocking your car with all the necessary emergency supplies, you can take safely one step further by ensuring that your car is covered by the best extended warranty. At A-Protect Warranty, our plans are designed to cater to the individual and to set your mind at ease every time you get behind the wheel. Find out more about our plans by calling 1-866-660-6444.