Because the automotive industry has taken some major hits during this recent economic downturn, car dealerships are now offering a variety of new rebates, incentives, and discounts to attract buyers. Some incentives offer thousands of dollars in rebate or bonus cash. Others offer financing incentives such as the first 36 months with 0% APR (Annual Percentage Rate). In the wake of the phenomenal success of the federal government's “Cash for Clunkers” program, new and used car dealerships keep attempting to attract buyers with different perks and kickbacks.
Dealerships are dropping new car prices—sometimes well under MSRP—in order to move their inventory. Therefore, new car prices are dropping in dealerships across the country. The dealers know they must offer low prices on new cars for sale just to stay afloat in this increasingly competitive and economically slumping industry. With hundreds of dealerships going out of business, it is a car buyer's market.
In this bargain-hungry economy, many are shopping for cars at used car dealerships. Since—according to the Federal Government—Americans are driving less, buying fewer cars, and burning less gasoline these days. Not only are Americans less wealthy now, we are also attempting to be more environmentally friendly. Not all of us can bike to work, however. So if you must drive to work, as most people do, shop for fuel-efficient used cars for sale.
Even though Detroit was hit hard by the economic downturn, General Motors is still making some of the safest, most fuel efficient, high MPG Chevrolets at a great value. The 2009 Malibu earned five stars (the highest possible rating) in recent government frontal and side impact crash tests. Nissan cars, trucks, minivans, and SUV's are still popular. Kia, which caters to consumers on a budge, offers some of the most competitively priced models, offering great bang for your proverbial buck.
There are so many companies attempting to sell you car insurance, trying to pick a plan can be a bewildering task. The rate quote you get from one insurance company may be much lower or higher than a rate you receive somewhere else. Several of the variable factors are based on how risky the company thinks you are based on your credit score. It's important to get as many rate quotes from as many companies as you can: a good starting point is to get at least four rate quotes before making a final determination.
Most car insurance companies will claim they can save you money. Be sure to look at each insurance company's financial situation. That will give you a better idea about how much the company can help you out if and when you do need financial assistance from them. If you pick a financially strapped company, you may have trouble getting any money from them if disaster strikes. Financial strength ratings address the relative ability of an insurer to meet its ongoing obligations to the people it insures. So go online and take a look at all these numbers for yourself.