Used Car Buying Tips - Buying a Korean Surplus Car

We are no strangers to the K-Pop wave, from their noodles to their Koreanovelas. And for those looking for an affordable vehicle option, going for a Korean surplus car is worth a look. But as with other vehicles, careful research must be done and reading my tips on buying one is included. Here are my handy tips for you.

TIPS TO REMEMBER:

• Korean vehicles are already left hand drive, so you are spared from the conversion problems that their Japanese counterparts face.
• Make sure that you know where the parts for these vehicles are available for purchase, and also have counterparts if the model was not sold locally. If you bought a Hyundai Starex from a surplus dealer, parts are easy to acquire but for vehicles not available like the Hyundai Galloper, you can use Mitsubishi Pajero parts for them.
• Bring a mechanic with you to check if the unit has problems and drives well. Do not forget the test drive.
• Since South Korea experiences snow, make sure that the tires are replaced.
• Papers and taxes are very important especially if they are lacking, you will be a target of the Highway Patrol Group for your car being smuggled.

There you have it, study your options and chose wisely.

Used Car Buying Tips - Buying a Japan Surplus Car

Let's admit it, the Philippines is long dominated by Japanese cars. In fact, there are vehicles that are only known to car enthusiasts such as the Nissan March, Suzuki Wagon R, Toyota Regius, Nissan Largo, and the Honda Stream since these cannot be purchased in local dealers. Sports cars such as the Toyota Celica, Nissan Skyline, Mitsubishi GTO, and the Mazda RX-7 did not arrive in our country and there is a following for these. So, are you planning to buy a surplus car from Japan? Before doing it, read my tips to avoid any regrets.

QUESTIONS TO ANSWER:

• Are you the type of person who is the nitty gritty type, especially when it comes to cars?
• Are you the adventurous type and try something different?
• Do you think that the local offerings do not match your requirements?

If your answer yes to all three questions, then you are fit enough to purchase and maintain a surplus car from Japan. If you answered no to at least one question, better reconsider your options.

Ready and willing to take the risk? Here are some tips:

• There are surplus vehicles that are sold in freeport zones (such as the ones in Subic and Port Irene in Cagayan) and the ones sold in direct dealers which are converted. A good choice would be scouting the dealer lot (direct from the freeport) for a vehicle that has not been converted and staying for a few nights in that area, it would be nice if you witness the conversion process especially you are sure on what the mechanic is doing. 
• Before picking your choice vehicles, do your research on the vehicles your priorities require you and make sure the vehicle has parts equivalent from local models to avoid potential headaches. You can use the online buying route for hard to find parts but this entails waiting. Vehicle parts for a Toyota bB and the Toyota Vios are similar to one another. You can buy vehicle parts of a local Nissan Frontier or Urvan for a E50 Nissan Elgrand. 
• If the unit has been already converted, bring a mechanic with you to ensure that the steering components works like brand new. Also make sure the related components such as the transmission kit, the gauges, and the pedals work well.
• There are some vehicles that are original left hand drive (luxury brands are prime examples, since they are considered as "prestigious" in Japan) so do focus on the overall condition.
• Make sure the registration papers are clean and taxes have been paid. Driving a used car should be nightmare free especially with the fishy documents and policemen waving you at checkpoints. 
• We all know having power sliding doors, a moon roof, and even a cooler in our car is a dream, but make sure they function properly. Remember, less electronics, less worries.
• Do not forget to test drive the vehicle in different road conditions since you can gauge if its a good deal or not.
• Ask the dealer if the tires are brand new or not. If it is the latter, have them replaced once you get it from the dealer. These vehicles wear "expired" tires and they can be a liability since a roll-over can happen.

So there you have these tips. Have a happy trip!

Source:

http://tsikot.com/forums/car-comparisons-72/converted-2nd-hand-cars-45462/ 

Used Car Buying Tips - Identifying The Origin Of The Plate Of The Car

This article is dedicated to those used car buyers who are paranoid. Especially if the one is a "hot car", which meant stolen or the owner relocated. So, let's start the article without much ado.

Arranged alphabetically:
"A" - Ilocos provinces, La Union, Pangasinan, Benguet, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Apayao, Kalinga.
"B" - Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Batanes.
"C" - Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, Aurora. 2002 and below year models.
"D" - Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Mindoro provinces, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan. 1998 and below year models.
"E" - Camarines provinces, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes, Masbate.
"F" - Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Capiz, Aklan, Antique, Guimaras.
"G" - Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Siquijor. 2003 and below year models
"H" - Leyte, provinces, Samar provinces, Biliran.
"I" - Not assigned.
"J" - Zamboanga provinces, Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao.
"K" - Misamis provinces, Lanao del Norte, Bukidnon, Augusan provinces, Surigao provinces, Camiguin, Dinagat Islands.
"L" - Davao provinces, Compostela Valley.
"M" - North and South Cotabato, Saranggani, Sultan Kudarat.
"N" - Metro Manila. 1981-1982 and 2009-2010 year models.
"O" - Not assigned.
"P" - Metro Manila. 1982-1991 and 2010-2011 year models.
"Q" - Not assigned.
"R" - Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Zambales, Bataan, Aurora. 2003 and above year models.
"S" - Government vehicles.
"T" - Metro Manila. 1991-1995 and 2011-2012 year models.
"U" - Metro Manila. 1995-1997 and 2012-2013 year models (estimated).
"V" - Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Mindoro provinces, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan. 1999 and above year models.
"W" - Metro Manila. 1998-2001 year models.
"X" - Metro Manila. 2001-2005 year models.
"Y" - Cebu, Negros Oriental, Bohol, Siquijor. 2004 and above year models.
"Z" - Metro Manila. 2005-2009 year models.

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/License_plates_of_the_Philippines

Car Buying Tips - Buying A Car For A Senior Citizen

There is a point in our lives that all of us grow old. And since our requirements change, let's devote an article for them. Especially if a senior member of our family is getting a car or if you are planning to have one, and grandpa or grandma is part of the daily entourage, read this article and remember these tips when buying.

IF GRANDPA/GRANDMA WILL BE DRIVING

• Try the ingress/egress if he or she can go in and out without complaints.
• Let him/her feel the controls for the air-conditioning, radio, and some handles for opening the trunk, gas lid, doors, and hood. Thick ones are ideal and must be tactile feeling.
• Room and space is a must. Head and leg room is much appreciated by them especially in the driver's cockpit. 
• Adjustable driver seats is an excellent option, and also a must for them. Remember at least 10 inches from the wheel.
• Make sure that the steering wheel can tilt or adjust.
• Gadgets such as a blue tooth system, back up camera, reverse sensors, and large screens are much appreciated.
• It must be easy to maneuver and rear visibility is excellent. If reverse sensors and camera come standard (or as an option), this is an advantage. 
• And lastly, maintaining one (including gasoline, insurance, registration, and parts) must be friendly to the pocket.

IF GRANDPA/GRANDMA WOULD BE DRIVEN

• A soft but comfortable ride would be appreciated. Which means truck based vehicles are out of the picture.
• Low egress/ingress is a plus. High clearance vehicles can be a trouble for them.
• Sliding doors are a good addition, hinged doors is a bad idea.
• Easy to touch window switches, reachable door handles and locks must come standard.
• Additional niceties including a cold air-conditioning system, TV screens, and other convenience features would make the grandpa/grandma happy.
• If that member is riding in a wheelchair, getting a van (i.e Urvan Estate, Hiace Super Grandia, Grand Starex, Kia Carnival, Toyota Alphard, and others) would be a better option and fitting it with a lifter that goes in the rear would be the best option.
• If sedans are in the order, make sure the rear legroom is excellent and their wheelchair (if they have one) would fit in the trunk.

LAST SAY:

To sum this up, make sure that comfort, and ease of use are top priorities for buying a car with a/or for a senior citizen. A test drive done by themselves or make sure you tag them along in the test drive. Besides, let's show how we love them.

Sources:

http://www.carsdirect.com/car-buying/the-4-best-cars-for-elderly-drivers-autos-for-senior-citizens

http://tsikot.com/forums/car-comparisons-72/comfortable-ride-lola-88510/

Used Car Buying Tips - How To Avoid Flooded Cars

Floods are now a common occurrence in our 7,107 islands, no thanks to the effect of global warming and the clogged drainages around us (who causes it? Us). You are not sure if the unit you're checking is flooded since signs of flood cannot be seen by the naked eye itself. Have a mechanic with you and a second companion (a relative or a trusted friend) to help you check and have a second opinion.

So, here are some tell-tale signs that a car was flooded:

• If there are traces of water marks or mud marks in the exterior.
• If oils look soggy and contaminated with water.
• If the engine bay looks dirty.
• If the interior has funny smells and looks dirty.
• If rust in the small hinges (most of them) are evident.
• If electronic gadgets are not working well, this is a sign (and do not attempt it since water and electronics do not mix).
• Wiring could corrode.
• And lastly, if the papers are wet. If it is, walk away.

If you encounter any of these signs, better walk away since it could be a liability in the end. 

Source: http://tsikot.com/forums/car-buying-talk-138/problems-buying-flooded-water-submerged-car-%5Bmerged%5D-63417/

Used Car Buying Tips - Buying Repossessed Cars

Updated: August 30, 2015. The original article was posted in August 8, 2012.

According to the Merriam Webster dictionary, the term repossess means "to regain possession of" or in the financial sense, to take possession of (something bought) from a buyer in default of the payment of installments due. This article deals with vehicles bought back by banks (or financial institutions) since their owners cannot pay their amortizations billed by banks every month. With the automotive industry selling more than 200,000 since 2013 and all in low down payments being the norm, it is no surprise that more and more repo cars come to your local banks. If you are willing to take the plunge or looking an alternative to buy a used car, read this first before gambling

Where Do I Buy Repossessed Units?
Usually, banks (the largest ones) do have them at their warehouses. These include PS Bank, Union Bank, RCBC Savings, Banco De Oro, BPI, EastWest Bank, Maybank, Chinabank, and Sterling Bank. Other banks do have listings so better check them out. Toyota Financial Services have their repo units along Pasong Tamo Makati. You may Google them out or browse the Sunday Classified Ads of Manila Bulletin.

PS Bank warehouse in Libis, Quezon City

Majority of the units are latest model year vehicles, since financial institutions cannot finance vehicles older than five to seven years old. Majority of them are in varying states of condition, from the untouched to the poor ones. And most of the vehicles are sold in a "as is, where is" basis, and some do have their warranties intact (but read it properly, since some might be forfeited because of some provisions).

Majority of repossessed cars are late model vehicles, with some have no license plates

What To Look At?
Don't do this alone, bring a trusted mechanic with you to check what's fishy with the car you are considering. Check the oil from the engine and the transmission, if they have been replenished and good as new. If possible, make kalikot or open the things that you can open (such as caps in the engine and the handles). As with buying a used car, make sure to drive it around and test every gears (some don't allow a brief test drive). Have a camera ready to take pictures of the car since some douche bag may steal some parts. Expect some inferior quality tires and dead battery, and even some interior stains. Some have been flooded or totally wrecked, so do have an eye for them and avoid. And lastly, check if the registration is named after the bank, with some incidents like a stolen vehicle record may occur.

Some repos are in tip top shape (above), while some have accidents and are in bad shape (below)

You may either participate in a bidding style or buy it one the lot (but remember, lot prices are slightly higher than auction prices). If you participate in the auction, make sure all documents are submitted to their main office and an initial deposit is paid. If you buy straight, make sure that the car is in good condition. If you have the car (or won), all legal documents are in your responsibility.

If Something Goes Wrong
In that case, better have someone in the bank to take care of you. If there are car problems, make sure it could be remedied ahead.

Buying a repossessed car could be a happy moment or a sad day for one. The good thing is they are recent year models but the bad they could be neglected. Besides, it wouldn't hurt to look at them since who knows, you might want that car, for less.

There are some luxury cars, like this Jaguar, that you may dream of

Source:
http://tsikot.com/forums/car-insurance-financing-auto-loans-talk-134/buying-bank-repossessed-cars-23875/

Used Car Buying Tips - How to identify an "ex-taxi"

I stumbled upon an article from everyone's favorite online selling site which used car buyers must know. And today, I'll be sharing this write-up about ex-taxis that are floating in the used car market. Want to know if you're getting a good or sour deal? Read this one and you can outsmart the seller.

Here are some tips before plucking down a deal that you might not know its an ex-taxi.
1. Inspect the plates if there's a small letter H located in the side of the first letter. Also, majority of ex-taxis sport the Rizal plates.
2. Looks may deceive you that some sellers paint the letter "H" to cover it and say you're not buying something that has seen taxi days.
3. Most ex-taxis must have their original plates (Rizal issued ones) and if they sell you with the original yellow plates but say "idrodrop namin yan", be careful with that term.
4. Odometer reading can be questionable. Some might be astonishing high (you can imagine where it was traveled) while some might be tampered
5. Interior is worn out, which must be checked thoroughly. Inspect if the seats are worn out, if the dashboard has holes on it (where the meter was placed); and door locks, handles, and window cranks are present.
6. Paint is low quality, and you might be surprised that the name of the taxicab can be seen even repainted!
7. If the unit had LPG fuel installation, this must be removed before selling.
8. Speedometer won't work (if the unit is uber old) due to a broken cable.

Here are most vehicles that you will (and definitely) encounter being as ex-taxis:
- Toyota Corolla XL/XE Big Body
- Toyota Corolla XL/XE/LE Love Life
- Nissan Sentra JX/LEC B13
- Nissan Sentra FE/EX Saloon B14
- Mitsubishi Lancer EL/GLI Itlog
- Kia Pride Hatchback and sedan
- Mazda 323/323 Familia
- Daewoo Racer ETi/GTi
- Hyundai Excel
- Toyota Vios (they're sprouting one by one)
- Toyota Tamaraw FX (good luck hunting for a private unit)
- Mitsubishi Adventure GL/GLX (not all base models of Adventure are ex-taxis)
- Isuzu Hilander
- Toyota Revo DLX/GL (same comment as the Adventure)

VERDICT
Purchasing an ex-taxi can be a risk and at the same time, a reward. But as with the saying goes for used car buyers, caveat emptor, or in Filipino, bahala ka sa buhay mo.

Source: http://sulit.com.ph/4327306

Used Car Buying Tips - Brand New, Surplus, or Reconditioned trucks?

For the first time in this blog, I would be writing an article about trucks. Yes, the ones that deliver the processed meat products that you eat (cooked, of course), the furniture on your abode, and the steel materials for some various stuff. Since cars share the road with trucks, why not write something about them? Besides, they are also bought and sold the way cars face. They are also registered and maintained. So, what would be the choice for replenishing the fleet; brand new, surplus, or reconditioned trucks? My advice, read this article, weigh in the options, and pick the most convenient option.

BRAND NEW
Now if you have a lot of money, your company can go for the brand new route. The perks? A variety of brands that fit any budget and purpose are there. Dealerships around the archipelago are there to service your truck. And the good thing is, the assistance of a warranty (three to five years) is there. Plus, your drivers get to breathe the new car smell. Known disadvantages are the ticket price that some trucks cost seven digits, and the worry that some of your drivers would damage some parts (and further void the warranty). If you have enough funds, this is the option.

SURPLUS
Economics 101 will dictate that "surplus" means the excess of a country or company. And these surplus trucks are usually from Japan and other used car exporting countries. Surplus trucks do come in variety of engine displacements, truck body styles, mileage in their odometer, and the running condition. Surplus trucks could be a hit or miss, with conversion jobs are done well or poorly finished. If you are considering these trucks; better bring a mechanic, inspect the truck very well, test drive (if the dealer allows it), and ask for a warranty if available. If possible, go with a brand that has wide parts availability.

RECONDITIONED
These trucks are, well, reconditioned. Everything (from the smaller bits down to the steering compartments) had been changed and they don't just attempt some cheap welding and cut-and-shield job. But, it would be wise to tag along a mechanic to inspect the units. Some might not know that these trucks are from Japan but reconditioned to look like brand new. They do have a warranty but some sell it "as-is, where-is" condition. Although you have to give them some plus points for bringing life to the industry. Somewhat, these trucks are a bit safer than surplus one.

THE FINAL SAY
There you have it, weigh in the three choices and I salute your company by contributing to the Philippine economy with these trucks. Now if you're asking me between Isuzu, Fuso Canter, or Hino trucks? Let you and your drivers decide.

Used Car Buying Tips

You need a car for your daily commute to school, or to work. You need a car to serve as a secondary car for the requisite trips to the palengke or making sundo the kids in school. You need a car for your ever growing business. And you need a car because you dreamt of driving one during your teenage years (feeling young again). And you do have a smaller budget or a budget for brand new but does (and) believe in the power of new car depreciation (new cars can depreciate as much as 73 percent in 3 years, according to a data from Kelley Blue Book). So, you do desire to get a second hand car. This requires a lot of effort and time, but taking them one step at a time, you'll get to drive home that used car you desire.

EVALUATE YOUR WANTS AND NEEDS
You need a van for the growing family but want the looks of a mid-size SUV with a third row. So, what do you prioritize? Practicality for carrying multitudes of stuff? Comfort for the extended family on vacations? Something zippy on parking lots? Or something fast and agile? List down the things you want to see on your desired car, and read various reviews from magazines, the internet, or join automotive forums. It does not hurt to do a little research, to avoid regret and buyer's remorse in the end.

Also not forget to evaluate your financial capabilities, since you'll be paying the seller with either cash or through financing (depends on the agreement). Count in the fuel and maintenance expenses, since it would be a trouble to pay something that is not working.

CHECK THE PROSPECTS
Have you narrowed your choices to several models? It's now time for the treasure hunt finding someone's treasure. Various sources do include the internet (think of the sites sulit.com.ph, ayosdito.ph, olx.com.ph), magazine classifieds, and the popular Manila Bulletin classified ads every Sunday. You made the calls to their owners or the dealers, now is the time to make a thorough inspection. Bring a competent mechanic with you, and a companion to keep things safe. Let the mechanic inspect the car from its mechanicals to the interior. If the owner or dealer does not allow you to inspect the car, walk away. Take the car for a spin that involves various routes and road conditions. Try every available gear and every available gadget that the car has. If the owner or dealer does not permit to take a car for a test drive, it means the car has a problem that he/she does not want you to know. It would better to take the occupants (kids, spouse, any family members, or friends that would use the car) for the test drive and if one of them will use the car, let them experience. The first drive is the make or break of the used car purchase. And don't forget to verify the car's clean status through LTO Text, just key in LTO (vehicle's license plate number) and send it to 2600.

PREPARE THE PAYMENT
So, how would you pay the owner or dealer? Cold cash (in a suitcase) or through financing (either bank or those from lending institutions)? Your call, there are some older cars (usually older than 10 years old) that cannot be financed by some banks. And some vehicles five years or less have unfinished payments, which you can continue the payment (called assume payment in classifieds) or the owner can plunk in the final payment. If the owner wants a swap or trade in, and your car is his/her prospect, you pay the value of the car (the car itself, ok?) plus additional cash in excess.

THE DOCUMENTS
Everything had been set, but you want to see your name on the registration documents. Let you and the owner/dealer have sign a deed of sale between the two of you. Plus, have the two of you go to a LTO office to have the car registered under your name. And also verify it with the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) if it is a hot car (in other words, nakaw ang kotse), if the car is considered as, be careful! Walk away from the deal.

There you have it. You can get the used car of your dreams for any purpose without any hassle. Just remember, don't be nervous, and in the end, the keys are yours. Follow these tips and worry free driving years are to come.

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