When budgeting for a pre-owned vehicle, the window sticker is only the first part of the equation. In North Carolina, and specifically within the Greensboro city limits, our "Tag & Tax" system means that several state and local costs are due upfront. To help you plan more accurately, as you begin your vehicle search, we’ve outlined the mandatory fees and taxes you’ll encounter when registering your vehicle purchase this year.
There’s one threat unique to our region that demands protection: North Carolina’s salt brine. The liquid salt solution used by the NCDOT on I-40 and local roads is highly effective at preventing ice, but it is also, unfortunately, highly corrosive to your vehicle’s paint and finish. Left unchecked, the chemicals in this brine can accelerate clear coat fading, etch your paint, and drastically reduce your vehicle's long-term value.
The short answer is: Yes, a mandatory Emissions Inspection is required for most used cars registered in Greensboro, though there are still exemptions, plus, this requirement is dictated by the county where your vehicle is registered. Let’s quickly get into breaking this down.
Whether it's the rush on Wendover Avenue or the traffic on I-40, for many of us the daily drive means navigating busy roads. Though the right car won’t erase traffic, it certainly can make our commutes less stressful - and dare we say, enjoyable? Today, let’s focus on some features we think you should consider giving more weight to when shopping for your next daily driver.
When shopping for a vehicle, you may often see "4WD" and "AWD" listed in the drivetrain specs or general vehicle description, and out in the wilds of the internet you may also see people using these terms interchangeably; though there is overlap, they are different systems. Today we’re breaking down the unique specialties of both, and how they actually affect you in our region’s climate and terrain so you can make an informed decision on your next vehicle.
When it comes to understanding your vehicle's true market value, most people focus on the big three: its condition, the mileage, and its maintenance or accident history, and though those are big factors, they're just the tip of the iceberg. Today, let’s take a deeper dive into elements that genuinely influence your car's resale value that you may not have yet considered.
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) have been widely adopted by manufacturers worldwide, they can offer excellent fuel efficiency and a remarkably smooth driving experience, making them an attractive option for those in the market. As a significant vehicle component, it's wise to understand what makes it tick and what to look for during your buying process, so today, we’re here to help you make an informed decision - let’s get into it!
Hybrid vehicles are known for great fuel economy and smoother drives, though buying a used hybrid is similar, but not quite the same, as buying a traditional gas-powered car. There are some extra layers to peel back, especially concerning that unique hybrid technology, but no worries, we're here to help you navigate the process. Let’s take a look at what to pay close attention to when you’re on the hunt.
Paint protection film is an excellent way to protect your vehicle’s paint from the harsh elements of the road, weather, and sun, but like any premium product, proper maintenance is required. Today, let’s take a look at how to keep our car’s PPF barrier looking good and doing its job with some basic tips, and especially what to avoid.
You're asking a smart question that can save you money in the long run, as well as some potential frustration during the car-buying process. Let's quickly get to the answer, followed by an explanation, and finally how your down payment can truly save you money!