Monday, January 19, 2015

Learn More About Us! | Allend Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram


Our team at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM Port Arthur would like to thank you for visiting our blog!

We have a skilled and knowledgable sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Located in North Richland Hills, Texas, the staff at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep will help you find the Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge vehicle you want. At Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep we offer a searchable online inventory of new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge & RAM cars in North Richland Hills, along with well-maintainedused cars by today's top manufacturers. Come on in and take a test drive! Our sales staff will help you find that new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or quality used car that you have been searching for.

For years, the financial staff at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep has offered expert advice for those seeking an affordable Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge car loan or lease. Our service doesn't just stop there. North Richland Hills customers can come in and take advantage of our knowledgeable Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge car repair technicians and a fully-stocked inventory of Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge auto parts.

Whether you are looking for a Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge, or a pre-owned car or truck, Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep is here to help. If you don't see what you are looking for, click on CarFinder and simply fill out the form. We will let you know when vehicles arrive that match your search! If you would rather discuss your options with our friendly sales staff, click on Directions for interactive driving directions. We are conveniently located at 7740 NE Loop 820. You can also reach Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep any time by filling out our contact form or calling us. The entire staff at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep looks forward to serving you! If you are in the market for aChrysler, Dodge, Jeep or RAM in Fort Worth, Grapevine, or Bedford, we are your destination.

Proudly serving customers from Grapevine, Bedford, Plano and beyond with new and used Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Vehicles

Friday, January 2, 2015

Owning a Used Car: How Much Can You Expect to Pay Each Month? | Allen Samuels Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram



If you are tempted to cut corners on the purchase of your next used vehicle to save money, you may want to reconsider. Even though you can often find deals to save money up front, it usually comes back to bite you.

Simply put, getting a good deal on a used car spans beyond the purchase price. You also must consider the little things that accompany the monthly payment such as insurance, gas, maintenance and repairs. This may seem like a lot to afford, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to afford the used car of your dreams.

The costs of owning your ride is decreasing as time goes on. On average, the monthly operating and ownership costs associated with owning a sedan is $739.67 (or $8,876 per year), according to a recent report released by AAA. Operating costs include gas, maintenance and tires whereas ownership costs include full-coverage insurance, license, registration, taxes, depreciation and finance charges.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of their findings by vehicle type, based on a 15,000 annual mileage:

If you are blown away by these figures, don’t start worrying yet. Here are some things to consider when shopping that can help you save later on down the line:

Gas

Wouldn’t it be grand if all cars could run off of oxygen? Unfortunately, cars need gas, and gas is expensive. Even hybrids require gas to function. Bummer.

So, when you’re shopping, you’ll need to pay attention to the fuel economy ratings, both on the highway and in the city. Put this expense into your car budget, and see how often you can afford to fill your tank. Even though you can’t control gas prices, you can control how much you spend to fill up your tank each week.

Maintenance

Extended warranties are great, but they typically only cover major repairs. That means you’re on your own with the day-to-day maintenance. It’s probably not a good idea to pick out the shiniest model on the lot without first taking a moment to figure out the anticipated maintenance costs. 

Generally speaking, the older the model and the higher the mileage, the more costly the maintenance. You also might want to get the maintenance records to see if the vehicle was properly cared for by its prior owner.

Tires

Don’t forget to take a peek at the tires. If they are extremely worn, they will need to be replaced, which can set you back hundreds of dollars out the gate.

Insurance

Besides the cost of the monthly payment, car insurance is a top expense for your car. Unfortunately, it’s illegal not to carry coverage if you live in any state except for New Hampshire, so insurance is an expense you can’t avoid. But, the year, make and model of your car can affect the cost of your insurance. 

Depreciation

Unless you seriously intend to drive the vehicle until the wheels fall off, you’ll want to purchase something that holds value. Otherwise, be prepared to fork over the difference between the sales price and what you owe when you want to sell or trade it in for a new set of wheels. Don’t let bargains on the purchase price fool you. Before putting any money down, look at the current asking price compared to older models to gain some insight on depreciation. And, steer clear of rebuilt or salvaged vehicles if you intend to earn any equity in your vehicle.

Bottom line, there is more to owning a car than just the car payments. You need to set a budget that includes all of the costs so you can see what you can reasonably afford.