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Your Car Might Be a Death Trap Without These 7 Items in Your Roadside Emergency Kit

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Roadside Emergency Kit

Cars occasionally break down. A roadside emergency kit prepares you for these situations, but don’t just buy the first one you see: Prepackaged ones cost $29.99, but they often include low quality items and things you might not end up using.  You’re better off curating your own kit for about $85, by selecting these seven high quality items from Amazon.

Jumper Cables

Low gauge jumper cables deliver more power to your battery. Inexpensive prepackaged kits usually include eight or ten gauge cables that work fine for most small cars and trucks, but larger vehicles require more heavy duty cables. Spend $16.95 on 12-foot, four gauge cables and you’ll be covered for any situation.

Hand-Crank Powered LED Flashlight

Prepackaged kits usually include an inexpensive battery-powered flashlight. Car owners inevitably find the battery dead and corroded when they need it.

A hand-crank powered LED flashlight will provide a light source for night-time emergencies without the need for batteries. A flashlight of this type can be purchased for $8.99.

Lug Wrench

Automobiles come with a tool specifically to remove the lug nuts off its tires. Ensure you have this tool, or purchase a lug wrench for $9.99 that fits your automobile’s lug nuts.

Emergency Blanket

A blanket is important, especially in colder climates; but the blankets that come in emergency kits are often made of mylar; although this material is marketed as something that is compact yet provides a lot of warmth, in practice many people find it to be uncomfortable.

Do yourself a favor and buy an emergency blanket that will actually feel comforting during an emergency: a fleece one is pretty affordable at $7.97, and will provide you with plenty of warmth until help arrives.

Rain Poncho

A rain poncho will keep you dry if you have to change a flat tire or walk to find help in the rain; but the ponchos that typically come in prepackaged kits are often disposables that might not make it through one use before tearing. Instead, it only costs $6.97 to get a rain poncho with more substance to it.

Safety Reflectors

If you have to let your car sit, your hazard lights (which should be on) will eventually drain the battery. Safety reflectors set on the roadside will increase the visibility of your vehicle to other traffic. The single reflector included with most prepackaged sets is insufficient. A set of three safety reflectors increases your safety for just $15.99.

First Aid Kit

Having access to a first aid kit is always a good idea, but prepackaged products contain first aid kits with substandard products that won’t do you any good in a real emergency. Instead, get a quality first aid kit for $14.09.

Add a $4.19 duffel bag to hold your items and you’ve got a high quality roadside emergency kit designed to help you handle the most common automobile breakdowns. Unlike prepackaged kits, yours will contain high quality items and no filler you’ll likely never use.

Readers, what kind of roadside emergency kit do you have in your automobile — and to what extent have you wound up using it?  

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Looking for more money saving tips?  Check out these articles:

This Lender Repos 1 In 3 Cars It Finances — How to Avoid This Cycle

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This lender repos 1 in 3 cars it finances.
You frequently hear about America’s crushing student loan debt , but cars are not far behind — especially subprime auto loans.

While student loans are approaching $1.5 trillion, outstanding auto loans topped the $1.2 trillion mark in the third quarter of 2017, according to the New York Federal Reserve.

Subprime borrowers (with credit scores below 620) hold almost one-quarter of the dollar value of auto loans. Given that level of risk, it’s no surprise that over 4% of auto loans are delinquent by 90 days or more and repossession is a real threat.

Subprime lenders are more likely to repossess autos since they service higher-risk clients. However, Jalopnik reports that one lender – Credit Acceptance – expects to repossess 35% of the cars that it finances every year.

Absorbing That Default Rate

It’s difficult to absorb that default rate without charging high interest rates to make up the difference. Borrowers who already have difficulty paying receive rates that make monthly payments even higher – leading to a cycle of defaults and repossession.

If you have subprime credit, how can you get a loan and avoid repossession? Start with an understanding of how much you can really afford to pay for a car. Review your budget (and if you don’t have one, make one).

Find out the highest monthly payment you can afford to make given your income and other expenses. Don’t forget to include gas, insurance, and maintenance costs. Online calculators are available to help you budget and estimate your total auto ownership costs.

Shop Around

Next, shop around for both cars and lenders (even with poor credit, you have options). Check with the Better Business Bureau and online reviews to see how other customers have fared. As you search, be realistic in your expectations for both the car and the interest rate of your loan.

Don’t be tempted to extend your loan term out extra years to lower your monthly payment. You’ll be tempted to overspend and you could be making payments beyond the car’s useful life.

What if you’re already bordering on default? You’ll need even greater fiscal discipline to make up the late payments along with the corresponding late fees and any other penalties.

Negotiate with Lenders

However, if you simply can’t afford to make the full payments, you may have to negotiate with the lender for payment terms that you can afford.

Your current lender may offer refinancing, but the terms are likely to be poor. Refinancing costs may neutralize any gains on interest rates and monthly payments.

If necessary, explore your options to downgrade to a cheaper car. Dealers and lenders would rather find affordable monthly payments than go through the expense and hassle of repossessing your car.

Stay Current

However, this may not be a viable option if you are behind on the payments on your existing car or your car is worth less than the amount that you owe. A lender may be reluctant to roll any of those negative values into your new car loan.

Long term, your goal should be to increase your credit score. Why is it subprime? Have you missed payments, racked up excessive credit card debt, or defaulted on a loan?

The cure is time and financial discipline. Cut back spending to where your budget creates an occasional surplus that you can use to pay down debt.

Subprime lenders know their clients are at high risk for default and missed payments. If you have subprime credit, be the exception to that rule. Budget wisely and you won’t have to worry about auto repossession – and you’ll also be on your way to better credit.

This article was provided by our partners at moneytips.com. Photo ©iStockphoto.com/BERKO85

If reading this blog post makes you want to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.

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Does Costco Do Brakes?

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Does costco do brakes

Costco is a go-to spot for people trying to save money. Not only are you able to buy just about everything in bulk, you can also save money on other day-to-day expenses as well. So, what kind of car repairs does Costco offer? Does Costco do brakes? Tires? Oil changes?

Does Costco Do Brakes?

No. Costco does not do brakes.  After reaching out to Costco, we discovered that brake repair services are NOT offered at their warehouse locations.  However, the retailer has an auto program that will help its members save on car repairs. This is called the Costco Auto Program.

Costco Auto Program

The Costco Auto Program will help you get your brakes done (or anything else) with that well-known and desired Costco discount.You can locate the nearest service center to you by using this locator. Costco Auto Program members get 15% off parts, service and accessories at participating service centers throughout the United States. (Get the coupon here.) You can use this on any car that is registered to the Costco member’s home.

To become a member of the Auto Program, all you have to do is be a member at Costco. (See how you can get a discounted Costco membership here.) You’ll get 15% off (good for up to $500 in savings) and you can use it on brakes and alignments, shocks and struts, belts and hoses, heating and cooling services, routine maintenance, etc.

Keep in mind, to save money with Costco you will have to go to a participating service center (not all service centers participate). You will also need this coupon and it should be noted that the Costco discount is only available for certain vehicles (not all cars will be covered). The discount cannot be used on air bags, oil changes, ties or inspections. You also won’t be able to use it if the work is covered by a warranty or insurance policy.

Auto Repairs Available Through Costco’s Auto Program

Since the answer to the question, “Does Costco Do Brakes?” is no, you’re probably wondering about what other services the company offers through their automotive program. The answer is: just about everything. As stated above, you’ll need to go through a Costco partner to save the extra cash but the savings could be worth it.  Other repairs available include:

  • Brakes
  • Alignments
  • Oil changes
  • Tires and wheels
  • Batteries
  • Starters
  • Heating and cooling systems
  • Belts and hoses
  • Routine maintenance
  • Install car technology (new radios, etc.)

No matter where you decide to get your auto repairs done, whether it be at Costco or elsewhere, be sure that you know what you are buying. Research what the average price is for the services you need and call around before settling on doing business with a specific mechanic. Also, remember that many parts will come with limited warranties, etc. Always know the details of the products you are buying.

When it comes to auto parts or auto service warranties, coverage will vary from mechanic-to-mechanic. While calling around and comparing prices, ask about what kind of warranty the shop offers on their repairs as well as any warranty on the parts. For example, many batteries have a three-year warranty (or a warranty up to a certain mileage count). You may have to pay extra to insure the parts though. Car battery warranties, for instance, usually cost an additional $40 to $50. However, the $40 or $50 is worth not spending another $100+ on a car battery if it dies again shortly after your purchase (sometimes the part is just bad).

Similarly, many shops will guarantee their work and the parts they use. So, if you go to a shop and get work done on your brakes and your brakes stop working three days later the shop will warranty their work. Whether the issue is with the part or the service, the shop will cover the cost of repairing your vehicle again. As stated above, you’ll have to call and inquire about any warranties or guarantees individuals shops may have.

If you’re interested in learning more about Costco’s Auto Program, check out the video below:

Have you used Costco’s Auto Program or other similar auto services? What was your experience?

Photo: North Texas Daily

Memorial Day Deals and Freebies 2017

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memorial day deals and freebies

If you are in need of certain items, Memorial Day can be the perfect time to take advantage of some great deals. Most retail stores will be open for the holiday hoping to get your business. But what are those Memorial Day deals and freebies? While you should avoid splurging on useless items, the following are a few things that you might consider purchasing over the Memorial Day weekend if they happen to be on your list.

Memorial Day Deals and Freebies

Spring Clothing

Probably the best deals that can be found over the Memorial Day weekend sales are for spring clothing. The spring clothes have been in the stores for a few months, and the summer clothing lines are beginning to come in. That means that the stores need to move out all their spring inventory to make way for the summer clothes. Many of the spring clothes will be discounted 50% or more. Add in Memorial Day sales, where it’s possible to find Groupon coupons taking off an additional 10% to 40% of the already discounted prices, and this weekend is a great time to get all your spring clothing for next year. Expect some especially hot deals from the following:

  • Old Navy: Take advantage of Old Navy’s Summer Kick-off Sale, where you can find 50% off tees, 40% off tanks and swimwear, and 30% off all shorts.
  • Banana Republic: Get up to 40% off your order with the code BRMORE when checking out online.
  • Vera Bradley: Vera Bradley is offering 25% off travel items including backpacks and 30% off select patterns and styles, both online and in stores.
  • Eddie Bauer: Receive 40% off your entire purchase when you enter the code FIR at eddiebauer.com.
  • Accompany: Enjoy free shipping on all orders $150 or more from their wide selection of women’s, men’s and children’s apparel.

Home Goods

May is a great month to buy items for the home in general, and if you add in the discount coupons which are usually available for Memorial Day deals and freebies, you can get some fantastic discounts. Many items in the housewares category will already be marked down as much as 30% or more at places such as Target and Sears. If you can find a weekend sale coupon, you can add that on top of the discounted price to save even more. Here are some other deals you won’t want to miss:

  • Overstock.com: According to their website, Overstock is hosting their biggest Memorial Day sale yet. Take an extra 10%, 15%, and 20% off various items including but not limited to furniture, area rugs, home decor and more.
  • Pottery Barn: Save up to 40% on sectionals and sofas.
  • Home Depot: Home Depot is holding a store-wide sale for Memorial Day Weekend. Save up to 40% on appliances as well as 30% off patio furniture.
  • Lowe’s: Lowe’s Memorial Day sale also includes up to 40% off select appliances, such as refrigerators, washers and dryers, and more.

Barbecue Grills

This isn’t the best time to buy barbecue grills because they will be discounted even more at the end of summer when the stores will want to get rid of their inventory. That being said, if you’re planning to do a lot of grilling this year, and you need to replace your old grill because it’s not going to last this summer, the Memorial Day sales will be your best opportunity to get one at a good price. Stores will discount some to drive traffic to the stores, so with a bit of work and price comparison, you should be able to find a decent deal. Here are just a few places you might be able to find some grill gear discounts:

  • Home Depot: Take up to 15% off grills and smokers.
  • Lowe’s: Save up to $50 on select grills and smokers for Memorial Day.
  • Sears: Sears is offering up to 30% off grills and outdoor cooking gear, plus an extra 10% off online with the code 10SEARS.
  • Camping World: Enjoy up to 40% off grills and accessories from Camping World as part of their 13th Annual Grill Fest.

Camping and Outdoor Gear

Much like with barbecue grills, the best time to buy camping and outdoor gear will be at the end of the summer season when stores will be liquidating all their overstock. If, however, there is camping or outdoor gear that you absolutely need to get to use this coming summer, you’re likely to find the best deals during the Memorial Day sales. The discounts on these items will be limited, but if you do your homework, shop the sales, and look for coupons to stack on top of those, then you should be able to find a decent deal on these items. Still, be sure that you can’t get by without buying it until the end of summer, as this will be the time to get the best deal. Check these out:

  • DICK’s Sporting Goods: DICK’s is hosting a variety of sales for Memorial Day, such as 50% off select apparel, 40% off select footwear, up to $130 off certain kayaks and SUP boards, and more.
  • Camping World: You’ll also be able to purchase discounted camping items from Camping World. For instance, the Colman Citronella Lantern is currently 62% off, an open fire grill is 38% off, and you can buy discounted insect screens for your tent also at a discounted rate.
  • Home Depot: If you need a new lawn mower, Home Depot has sales on both push and rider mowers, ranging from $50-$100 off. Some even include free shipping.

Cars

The best time to buy a car is when the new season models are coming out, or at the end of the year. If you need to purchase a new car before the end of the year, the Memorial Day sales (which can last until the end of the month, and even into June) can be a good time to do it. The weather has usually improved across the US and car dealerships are eager to get people into their showrooms. To entice people to their showrooms, many car dealerships will be offering good discounts for the holiday. According to CarsDirect.com, some deals to keep an eye out for include but are not limited to:

  • Chevrolet: Get 20% off the sticker price from select Malibus and 10% off all Corvettes.
  • Volkswagon: Volkswagon is offering a $1,500 holiday bonus on any Jetta model plus 0.9% annual percentage rate (APR) for 72 months.
  • Kia: Pay nothing for five months plus 0% APR for 66 months on the 2017 Forte, Optima, Soul, and Sorento.
  • Volvo: Lease a 2017 S60 T5 Inscription from just $385 for 36 months with nothing due at signing with your first payment waived.

The key to remember here is that you don’t want to be upsold extras that you don’t need as well as review all terms included with your deal. There will be good discounts on the base models to drive you into the showroom, but the salespeople will try to get you to buy upgrades to make their money.

Freebies

Because this is a holiday honoring those who died while serving in the military, there are several Memorial Day deals and freebies exclusively for men and women both active and retired in the military over Memorial Day Weekend. If you are in Washington, D.C. over the three-day weekend, you’ll find several free events in and around the area for the cause. Not to mention, the following are other activities or items members of the military can enjoy at no charge:

  • National Parks: The National Parks actually provide free annual land passes year-round for current U.S. military members and dependents. Make sure you have your Common Access Card (CAC) or your military ID. Visit their website for more details.
  • Hooters: If you’re a veteran or active member of the military, get a free entree from Hooters on Monday, May 29 simply by presenting a valid military ID at participating locations throughout the nation. See the full news release here.
  • McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood and Steaks: McCormick and Schmick’s will honor those who served in the U.S. military with complimentary lunch or dinner meals on Monday to veterans, individuals currently serving in the military and National Guard, and Gold Star honorees (parents and spouse).

If you know of any Memorial Day deals and freebies, feel free to mention them in the comments below or in our forums. Thank you to all those who have served or are serving in the military!

How and Why to Shop Around for Cheaper Car Insurance

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cheaper car insurance
Some people don’t think twice about their car insurance. They buy it because it’s illegal not to, and they never think about it again. Perhaps they go with the first offer that comes along, often to a company that advertises the most extensively, but doesn’t necessarily offer the best rates. Shopping around for car insurance, even after you already have a policy, is a great way to save money. If you can cut your costs in this way, you can make a habit of saving all throughout your personal finance life, thereby cutting down your cost of living across the board.

Auto insurance isn’t one size fits all. It’s important to really investigate the coverage you’re interested in, and to understand what service you are receiving for the price. A single insurer will provide many different coverage options, each at a different price point. In general, you’ll pay more each month to have a low deductible in the event of a car crash, or the injury of another driver. If you already have insurance, take some time to play around with the coverage options on their website to see how changes to your policy affect the monthly cost of coverage. You might be surprised at the savings you can find without changing insurers.

If you get to the end of this process and still are not satisfied with the cost of coverage, it’s time to start looking for alternatives. At this point, you should become aware of two different insurer classes: national/international and local/regional. You might be surprised at the differences offered by both.

In general, national and international services are quite good. They have many employees, and it’s always easy to get help, even if you are in a wreck in the middle of the night. Because they have so many policyholders, they can afford to offer lower prices than competitors, at least in some cases. On the other hand, some people find national insurers to be somewhat unresponsive. They feel they are not cared for because they are just one of thousands of regional policyholders. Your experience will likely be unique, but you can get a sense of what to expect by reading online reviews from credible sources.

Alternately, you could go with a local or regional insurer. This insurer likely does not advertise as widely as the national competitor, but this could be reflected in their lower costs. Local insurance isn’t always cheaper, but it can be. These businesses try to offer savings and better service to attract customers from larger networks. Talk to a local provider and get quotes.

With quotes in hand from local and national insurers, go back to your insurance company and request a discount, at or beneath the level of your quotes. If this is not granted, leave and go to the company that offers you the best service at the best price. Do this once every year or two and you’ll always know that you’re saving the most possible money on your car insurance.

Photo: Insure Wish

Planning To Lease A Car? Check Out The Options -PCP Or PCH?

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lease a car
Owning a car is definitely an amazing thing. It is like a dream come true! But what if you cannot buy one? You still can drive one and all you need to do is to lease a personal car.

In the beginning, cars were only leased to big businesses but nowadays, people are leasing cars for personal purposes too. The number is ever increasing as leasing the car has proved to be beneficial to the people.

When it comes to leasing the car for personal business, you have to either choose PCP or PCH. When said this, it is very important to understand the difference between the two terms.

At the end of the lease period can I buy the car or not?

In case of PCP, you have this clause. A certain balloon amount will be decided at the beginning of the leasing period on which both parties agree. This amount can be given and the car can be owned later. In case you don’t want to do so, you can simply return the car at the end of the lease period.

In case of PCH, there is no such clause. So once you have used the car you need to return it back at the end of the lease period. Once done that you can go on leasing a new car. For more information on the same, contact we know cars for car advice.

Road tax included or not?

In case of PCP, you will get road tax for the first year and then you will have to pay for the remaining years of leasing the car.

If you go for the PCH option, you will receive road tax for the years you will have the car.

The other things included in the package are:

  • Car maintenance
  • Interest rates
  • Depreciation risk

Now they are common in case of both leasing options.

Why go for PCP?

If you like the car and may have any plans to buy the car at the end of the leasing period then you can go for this option. This is most popular as the people have the time to decide whether they want to keep the car or not untll the end of the leasing period.

Why go for PCH?

You will be able to easily lease a car with this leasing method as more number of deals are available for this method. Moreover, this option is opted by people who love to keep on changing cars and have new ones every few years.

In case you have leased a new car with PCP and you have made sure to maintain it well throughout the leasing period then you will be able to buy a well maintained car at the end of the leasing period for a lower balloon value.

At the end it is up to you to decide. Whether you want to lease a car and buy it later or just lease one for a year then go to lease new one- it is you who have to decide. Both the leasing methods have a set of benefits, so lease the car your way.

Photo: Saad Mk