Which are the best selling cars of 2014?

The hottest new car features of 2014 spurred interest in the most popular cars of the year! Each had some advantages over the other and some annoying points as well, which cost them popularity points among car enthusiasts. Thinking of buying a new car? Look at some of the best loved cars of 2014 for inspiration and ideas!

Ford Fiesta

This small car is a favorite among those car lovers who do not require much space and wish to have a car with a highly practical approach. It is very economical and therefore its sales soared in 2014. 

Nissan Qashqai

It is a crossover SUV with all the most desirable features combined in one awesome package! It is spacious yet compact, practical with an improved driving experience.

Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is no doubt the most popular family car due to its user friendly essential features and high comfort level to please the whole family.

Ford Focus 

This car is a wonderful option for ca lovers seeking a high quality family car with an affordable price tag. It is large with lots of space inside but it doesn't let that make maintenance expensive.

Vauxhall Corsa

It is a great compact car with tons of practicality and superior function meshed together. Its top quality features and affordability make it an excellent choice!

Volkswagen Golf 

Volkswagen is a highly praised brand among car enthusiasts and this particular model gets full marks due to the wonderful driving experience it offers along with high powered engine and plenty of space.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius remained a favorite among hybrid car lovers, who enjoy the superior fuel economy it comes with, providing low running costs and superb quality.

Toyota RAV4

Another popular car from the Toyota car company is the Toyota RAV4, which is commonly spotted a lot due to its great sales in 2014. The design is elegant and sleek while it possesses practicality and has plenty of room for family travel.

Honda Civic

For those who prefer smaller cars, the Honda Civic has been the go to model in 2014. The company has revamped the design with multiple options like four cylinder gasoline engine, CNG or a hybrid engine for both choices together. The modern practical features have made it more attractive to consumers.

Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima has seen excellent sales in 2014, being a favorite car for smaller families. Among sedans, it is a good option mid family size car with an elegant design and  attractive practical features.The Nissan Altima has seen excellent sales in 2014, being a favorite car for smaller families. Among sedans, it is a good option mid family size car with an elegant design and  attractive practical features.

How Often Is Oil Change Necessary?

Oil change is a huge issue for a lot of people. Some of the people don’t even know when to change your oil. While some do not remember to change the oil in their car, they either have a windshield reminder sticker that helps them to remember to get an oil change, or they change the oil when their car starts to give them trouble. To all those out there, stop following these stickers, instead follow the automaker’s advised service intervals. Thanks to the modern technology oil change has become very easy. These days most cars have built-in oil monitoring systems, which let you know when to go for an oil change.

Let the Manual Guide You

Bless the good old manuals. You can get all the information you need regarding oil change in the maintenance section of the owner’s manual. You can even get a softcopy of our manual in case you have misplaced or lost your hardcopy, all you have to do is go online and search for the right manual.

You will find that the owner’s manual has two lists of service schedules, in most of the cases. These are based on type of driving conditions; they can be normal and severe or special. Carefully read the manual to find out more about the driving conditions or how you drive. In most cases, the vast majority of people fall into the normal schedule.

Trust Your Oil Life Monitor

With the constant innovation and technological advancements, life is becoming easier. One of the many innovations that have helped people is the oil life monitors systems. An increasing number of automakers are moving towards installing oil life monitors of varying complexity in their vehicles. The basic versions tend to be more like maintenance protectors rather than actual systems. They are determined by mileage, and maintenance light starts blinking when the vehicle reaches a certain range of mileage.

The advanced oil life monitors rely on constantly taking information from numerous sensors throughout the vehicle and then use a complex algorithm to predict the life of your oil. The frequency of oil change depends on the driving conditions and habits. The knowledge about when your next oil change is due is al; based on guesswork. There is no specific time after which you should change your oil. You just have to drive and wait till the maintenance light comes on. The frequency of oil changes vary from car to car. You will be surprised at the difference of oil change between cars.

It's also essential to note that these systems are attuned to work with the factory-recommended oil. They aren't sophisticated enough to recognize that you've upgraded to another blend, so save your money and stick to the factory fill.

Use the Time Estimate

However if you have a weekend car or use your vehicle seldom, you'll have to change your maintenance strategy a bit. Many specialists believe that over time, oil becomes contaminated by gases that blow by the pistons, and the longer the oil sits with that contamination, the more it degrades.

Whichever method you follow, whether its the oil life monitor system set by the automaker or set mileage intervals, all of them have prescribe a maximum time frame for an oil change. For example, the 2010 Toyota Prius has a recommended oil interval of one year or 10,000 miles — whichever comes first. Most of the oil life monitors are more sophisticated than others; vehicles that employ them will have different time recommendations. This information can be found in the owner's manual.

Get an Oil Analysis

The two type of driving conditions have been of a point of conflict between vehicle owners, mechanics and dealership service departments for very long. Each one has his/her own beliefs, and based on these beliefs they have their own recommendations. However the best way to understand your driving style is to get your analyzed.

The advantage of this oil analysis is that it will tell you the condition of the oil in your car; it can also uncover any issues that your engine might be experiencing. Sometimes your you might find out that the sample tests show traces of fuel and coolant in the engine oil, which are initial signs of engine complications. These tests also let you know how far you can travel in between oil change.

Extended-Life Oils: It's Safe to Switch

Numerous oil companies are releasing the extended-life oils, which are guaranteed for precise mileage listed on the bottle. For example, Mobil's most advanced fully synthetic product, Mobil 1 Extended Performance, for instance, is guaranteed for 15,000 miles. The company advises it for vehicles that have crossed their warranty period. This is an important point because many automakers will void your warranty if you do not follow their recommended service intervals.

By following the above listed points not only will you know when to change your oil, but it will also help in protecting your engine from having any serious issues that might harm your car.

At Auto House Calgaryhttp://www.kijiji.ca/b-cars-vehicles/calgary/c27l1700199 we understand your need better and therefore aim at providing you with the best quality services that are reliable and have reasonable prices.

5 Reasons to Buy a Preowned Vehicle Instead of a New One

The automobile market is thriving these days with modern engineering technology developing new and improved models with amazing hi-tech features. However, the market prices of these vehicles keep fluctuating with the different trends in the market so it is important to be aware of them before you decide to purchase a car. There has always been a debate about the advantages of preowned cars over brand new cars. Here are some factors listed to help you weigh the pros and cons when approaching a car dealer.

Cost

The most obvious benefit of getting a preowned car is the negotiable price depending on its condition and time of release. You can easily afford a really good preowned car within a reasonable budget. The trouble usually accompanying the payment of a brand new car is that the lack of good credit results in difficulties when applying for a loan.

Insurance

The insurance costs for a brand new car are much higher than those for a preowned car. Also the owner does not have to be on their toes all the time afraid to scratch or dent their new car accidentally. Overall, a new car is a much larger investment that not everyone at afford in difficult financial times.

Depreciation

Most car prices drop up to 40 % within the first year! This means that instead of walking into a showroom to select a new model, you can just purchase the same model from a quality car dealership company after a couple of months.

Improved Reliability

The business of preowned car dealerships has developed greatly in recent decades leading to a more flexible and reliable system of certified dealers. A new car comes with a definite full warranty that extends for a reasonable period of time. The original factory warranty on a new car can actually be transferred when it gains new ownership if the time falls within the preordained warranty of the car company. So a portion of the leftover warranty can belong to the new owner of this preowned car.

Choice of a Higher Model or Discontinued Features

Recently launched cars obviously come with attractive new features but they are not within everyone’s budget. One can easily buy a relatively new classy model with almost the same design and innovative features for a fraction of the original price. So a buyer can conveniently upgrade to a higher model well within budget. Sometimes a car enthusiast finds some older features more suitable for themselves that are absent in the latest models. Preowned cars are a great option for such individuals.

Although the purchase of preowned vehicles may be tricky, most problems can easily be eliminated by the choice of a reliable well established car dealership. At AutoHouse only the best preowned vehicles in prime condition are sold to satisfied customers with additional consultation services and benefits.

How to pick the best family car?

The task of choosing which vehicle to buy is even harder when you are selecting one that fulfills your family’s needs. Depending on how many family members you have, their ages and their personal preferences, there are many different models available in the market. It is not so easy to make sure that everyone is happy and there will e no fuss during a regular family drive. Here are some features listed that are great for those buying a family car.

Roomy

What is the main distinguishing factor between a family car and other cars? The most obvious one is space to fit in more people and their luggage. How many seats you require should be considered according to the number of people in your home including toddlers in child car seats. A car having just a trunk is not a very smart pick for a family car because it has less space. Go for one has a hatch that opens all the way revealing maximum capacity.

Automatic doors and locks

Juggling all the bags you drag around wherever you take your children, their toys, your own purse or bag or files is a nightmare. This is why you should definitely consider an option that has automatic sliding doors and locks controlled by a central command center far away from the kids’ seats giving you control and convenience.

Raised back seats

These are really helpful not only for keeping a better eye on what the kids are up to in the back but also for installing child seats every time you take your family out. Bending low, straining to attach the belts in the right places will surely give you a premature spine condition that you can easily spare yourself by getting a car that has stadium seats. 

Back view mirror

This is a concave mirror that maximizes the driver’s vision of the backseats providing relief from the mini panic attacks you get every time you feel you have lost track of what’s happening in the back. Keep glancing in the back and you will have much worse problems to worry about than spilled contents of a juice box when you become a careless driver.

Adjustable seats

Adjustable seats that can move back and forth and slide forwards and backwards are a real comfort. Your children do not need as much leg room as you and you can keep more space for yourself and make yourself comfortable while driving.

Tinted rear windows

Tinted windows are great for long journeys and a much better option than those removable ones that really waste time and annoy everyone. They may also have UV-filters that protect your children’s sensitive skin from damage and allow for a more comfortable nap giving you and them both some peace.

Dark easy-to-clean interior

No matter how many precautions you take the unexpected always ends up happening when children are involved. There are inevitable spills and messes to be cleaned up every so often and you need to be prepared for that. Dark interiors hide the worse of the stains and interiors made of leather and other waterproof materials are really simple to clean and must be preferred by anyone buying a family car.

Isofix

If you have young children then you must pick a car with attachment points for car safety seats. They are very easy to use and you can test them when you are buying a car and see how the different parts fit perfectly. They are for your child’s security and your peace of mind. Also look for cars that have a switch for turning off the front seat air bags in case you ever need to have your child beside you in emergency situations.

Reverse sensors

With kids running around everywhere, pets on the loose and toys scattered all over the place don’t underestimate this very useful feature of a family car. When you are in reverse position and the sensor detects any object within a few feet of the bumper and lets you know so you may investigate before proceeding to avoid any accidents.

Beverage holders

These are convenient for all types of cars even those which are not designed for families because at some point you will need to place a beverage cup, bottle or some other thing inside it. You can easily use it for your baby’s formula, children’s bottles or your own coffee cup while you drive.

Video and audio players

Anyone who has ever had children or babysat them knows the most demanding part of child care is distracting the child long enough for you to finish your work or stop it from making a fuss. Built in DVD players attached to the roof or near the back seat for the kids to watch and stay entertained while you drive are really helpful in such cases.

Bluetooth

Having your hands free while you drive is really important. By syncing your phone with the built-in Bluetooth device of the car you can easily converse while you drive and not have to worry about the dangers of driving with one hand while you have to take an urgent call.

Safety ratings

You should check the safety ratings for any car before purchasing it. Look for the one with better features that fared better in the safety testing before it was released.

The experts at Auto House guide customers to the best previously owned vehicles designed for families without compromising on style or quality that come with the best deals.

http://www.autoshouse.com

How to inspect a used car’s condition before purchase?

Many people feel hesitant when buying a previously owned vehicle and for good reason. There can be hidden faults or oddities that surface later and may even cost you more than the car was originally worth. So, always make sure that you have gone through all the necessary details when you sign any papers. You can negotiate the price to a lower number according to its quality and be satisfied that you have made the right decision.

1. Pay attention to the body

It is a large surface area to check in such tiny detail but if you want a good looking car and avoid any future body repairs then you must perform this inspection diligently.

a. Rust

Even with the amazing technology we have the age old enemy of vehicles everywhere cannot be defeated. Especially check for rust on any part of the car. Bring a flashlight with you and inspect in daylight so that any rusted areas no matter how small they may be are apparent to you. Observe each section of the vehicle with a keen eye because it is very difficult to repair rusted areas and it is almost irreversible in most cases.

b.  Dents

Denting is a really obvious flaw and extremely easy to spot but how do you know that there have been denting repairs performed on this particular vehicle? Run your finger between the joints of the car panels and you will feel that the smooth surface is rough in that section due to asking tape if indeed it was dented once. Another hint is the difference in paint job between the part that has been fixed and the rest of the car. Another confirmation can be the presence of non-metallic dent fillers that may be detected with the help of a small magnet. The magnet will stick to the car metal body everywhere except for the repaired portion.

c. Sealing

All the panels should slide perfectly in place and be sealed well against each other like the hood of the car or the hatch of the trunk must be in line and seal well. Everything must fit. Keep a sharp eye out for any odd things that you notice during inspection.

2.    Tire inspection

The wear and tear that tear that tires have suffered over their journeys with the previous owner will tell you quite a lot about how much they were used and how much longer they can run in the future. Check all the tires to make sure that they have the same amount of wear to them. If not, that might mean that the vehicle has been through an accident. It also highlights problems with the car’s alignment which is really important to maintain.

3.   Trunk check

You must check the trunk of the car for the spare tire and observe the amount of wear it has too. It needs to be in good condition. Also, lift the carpeting and inspect the trunk for any signs of damage or rust that indicated leaks and other issues. You must also consider how much space you require in your trunk and does it fulfill your requirements. Lastly, check if the hatch opens properly and can stand on its own without falling on top of your head.

4.   Lift the car’s hood

The main part of the car is under the hood so you must make a good effort to check it out or even hire a decent mechanic to help you evaluate it. Check for any damage and notice if the VIN is still present otherwise it means that the fender has been replaced. The engine should be clean, free of corrosion and leakages. The oil dipstick should be full and not smell strange when you pull it out, wipe it, replace it and pull it out again. Observe the radiator fluid. It must not be oily or rust colored. The belts and hoses should be in good condition and not damaged in any way.

5.   Look under the car

This may seem extreme but this a great way to check for any faults with the system, alignment, pipe leaks, repairs, rust and other such issues.  Also, the exhaust should not be oily and the vapors should not be white except in cold weather.

Auto House, Calgary is dedicated to the supply of good quality previously owned vehicles in the best possible conditions in a large variety of models to suit your needs.  

http://www.autoshouse.com