What Happens If I Miss a Car Payment?

A study in 2016 by Experian discovered that the average car payment in America is a whopping $503 per month! That's a big chunk of change for most people. And with a vast majority of Americans living paycheck to paycheck, you're only one small problem away from not being able to make ends meet that month.So, you might choose to skip a car payment. But what's the result if you don't make that payment? What happens isn't a complete surprise, but it might have implications beyond what you expect.

What Does an Oil Change Really Do?

You own a car, and you know that an oil change is required at regular intervals. It seems, though, that those oil change intervals are really short. It's usually just a few months and you're draining the oil and changing the filter again. Has the oil really had time to go bad? Is it necessary to change the oil so soon?Don't even think about ignoring your engine oil. Your car's manufacturer has set the interval for a reason, whether it's by time, mileage, or with an oil life monitoring system. Just so you understand why you need an oil change a few times a year, check out these functions your oil performs.

The Best Family Cars of 2018

It's not common that you're the only one driving in your car. Kids in the backseat, your significant other riding shotgun - your family is a major factor in the vehicle you own. You want a car that's safe, has the room your family needs, and is convenient and efficient to operate. That's why you're looking for the best family cars around.For 2018, Parents Magazine has ranked 300 models, and the best family cars have been awarded. They're vehicles with oodles of space, easy child seat installation, efficiency, and technology that you want.Looking for one of the best family cars of 2018? Check out these five, rated the Best Family Cars of 2018 by Parents Magazine.

What's Wrong With Your Fuel Mileage?

It always seems like you're stopping at the gas station. You've been passing it off as the cost of owning a car, and it is. No matter which make or model you drive (unless it's electric), your vehicle is going to burn through fuel. It's just how it works. But there's a point when your car is burning more gas than it should, and you've noticed you aren't getting decent fuel mileage.You can't look past it anymore. You need to figure out what's wrong with your fuel mileage. Here are a few things you can have checked to find out why your fuel mileage has tanked (pun intended).

The Winners for Edmunds 2018 Best Retained Value Awards

One of the sure things about buying a car is that it's going to depreciate. There are no two ways about it - as it ages, you rack up the miles, and it develops little issues, it's not worth as much anymore. But some vehicles retain their value better than others. When the time comes to sell it, you won't take as much of a depreciation hit. And that's what the Edmunds Best Retained Value Awards are all about.

Why You Should Buy Your Used Vehicle from a Car Dealer

Your uncle tells you, "Buy a car privately. You can save money compared with buying from a car dealer."You've heard from your grandmother, "Why would you waste your money on a newer car? Just drive my 1988 Plymouth Reliant."Your sister's boyfriend's brother once bought a vehicle from a car dealer in Maine, and he had a bad experience too. He'd tell you to buy a car off Craigslist.You'll hear different advice from everyone. It's a great idea to do your research before buying a car. Your friends, family, and coworkers are your most trusted source for recommendations on buying a car. But sometimes, their advice isn't exactly accurate.There are many reasons that you should buy your next used vehicle from a car dealer. Here are just a few.

Five Reasons You Need a New(er) Pre Owned Car

Do you already own a car? If you're reading this, it means you're probably thinking about replacing it. And if you're on the fence about getting a newer pre owned car, you might need a little advice.It might be a little biased, but we think you should buy something a little newer. In fact, we've even compiled five reasons why you should switch up to a newer pre owned car.

When Are Used Electric Cars Coming?

It's been all over the news for the past couple of years. Car makers say that they're going to be electrifying most or all of their vehicle fleets. That's great news for the environment, isn't it? Manufacturers such as Volvo, Volkswagen, Tesla, Ford, and General Motors are just a few that have committed to electrified vehicles within the next five to ten years. So when does that mean we'll see used electric cars on the lot?Don't worry, it's going to happen in time. However, used electric cars aren't going to be overly common for a while yet.

How Does Negative Equity Affect My Used Car Purchase?

You financed a car not that long ago and you find yourself shopping for a vehicle again. It happens for various reasons. Maybe you bought a sports car and you suddenly have a baby on the way. Or maybe after a surgery you need higher vehicle seating to get in and out. It could even be that your car just isn't performing to your expectations. But buying a different car is going to be difficult because you have negative equity.

Tips to Reduce Fuel Consumption

"I love filling up my tank at the gas station!", said no one ever. One of the most expensive parts of owning a vehicle is fueling it up. It never seems to last as long as it should, and gas prices are consistently higher than we think they should be too. But since cars need fuel to operate, and we can't barter for the price per gallon, the only option is to reduce fuel consumption.Saving money on fuel is easier than you might think. To reduce fuel consumption requires very little effort and minimal cost. Your wallet will love you for it.