Can Your Car Last 1,000,000 Miles ?

When it comes to making a vehicle last — I mean truly last — Irv Gordon has set the standard. The retired science teacher paid $4,150 for his 1966 Volvo P1800 when it was new (at that time it was almost as much as his annual salary as a science teacher), and over the years he’s put 2.7 million miles on the car.

Gordon said that he spends less than $1,000 on vehicle maintenance and repair each year–and that’s averaged out to include the two engine rebuilds he’s had done over the 40-plus years of ownership.

Today a million miles, or even 500,000 miles, is still extremely unusual for a vehicle. But nowadays, passing the 200,000-mile mark is no longer the rare occasion it once was.

Consumer Reports, through its annual questionnaire, has found that thousands of people have gone over 200,000 miles in their original vehicles without catastrophic failures or major repairs. If a vehicle is very cheap to maintain and repair, it might be a good choice to keep to high miles even if it’s not a standout for reliability.

Read the Owner’s Manual!  – When people ask Irv Gordon–the guy with the 2.7-million-mile car–what they should do to follow his example, he has some surprisingly simple advice. “I always tell people the first thing to do is read the owner’s manual,” he said. Gordon, other experts, and reports from high-mileage drivers all emphasize that you shouldn’t cut any corners on routine maintenance.

Diligent maintenance can make “profound differences,” according to Dillon, in how long your vehicle lasts. In addition to the maintenance required by the manufacturer, he recommends regular flushing of critical fluids such as for the transmission, brakes, and power steering.

“Generally you don’t need to maintain it more often than the owner’s manual specifies,” assessed Kahn from his own experience. But he did emphasize the importance of being pre-emptive with some repair or maintenance items, ie the timing belt.

Be Proactive And Pre-Emptive -  Repairing preemptively — replacing belts and hoses long before they’re in danger of failing–and never ignoring new noises or vibrations, might be the best tip of all. It’s abundantly clear that the most successful high-mileage owners are those who understand the cost-effectiveness and importance of addressing the small problem before it becomes a larger one.

Passionate Penny-Pinching  – And that leads to a final, and especially important, point: After all these years, Gordon still really likes his little Volvo coupe. Typically, owners of high-mileage vehicles still like them — or at the very least the competitive aspect of seeing how far they can get without problems.

In 2007, Consumer Reports projected — figuring in depreciation, maintenance, repairs, finance costs, fees, and insurance — that drivers could save more than $20,000, typically, by keeping a new vehicle for 15 years and 225,000 miles versus getting a new one every five years.

Hyundai Recalling 65,000 Cars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Hyundai Motor America announced a recall of the certain Hyundai Azera sedans made between 2005 and 2008 (model years 2006-2009) for problems with Corvette models made between 2005 and 2007 last week for problems with the vehicles seat belt.

The report, specific only to the Azera model at this point, concerns the way that the seat belt tension sensor may withstand damage that could potentially create a problem with air bag deployment.

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) says the following:

“Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2009 Azera vehicles manufactured from September 27, 2005 through October 1, 2008. The wiring harness for the right front seat belt tension sensor may sustain damange after repeated use of the seat belt. If the seat belt tension sensor wiring becomes damaged the air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash, necessitating front air bag deployment.”

In a worst-case scenario, air bag failure can occur.

Hyundai is expected to begin announcing the recall this month, while the actual recall modifications will take place in February.

*Information courtesy of AOL autos

Last 8 days to Purchase your New Vehicle with 2009 Tax Write off:

The IRS is handing back $1,000 plus on a new car purchase this year. This is a new provision of the Senate’s Version of the economic stimulus bill. The measure, approved by the Senate, would make auto loan interest and state sales tax deductible from federal income tax.

The 2009 stimulus package signed into law by President Obama includes a valuable tax break for people who buy new cars, pickups, motorcycles and motor homes.

“You could save as much as 10% off the price of a new car by writing off state and local sales taxes. “Imagine if you buy a $30,000 car, your sales tax is nearly $3,000. You take a $3,000 deduction right off your federal income tax for 2009.” Says one dealership owner in California.

However, there are a few guidelines that must be followed:

•The deduction is limited to the state and local sales and excise taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of the new vehicle.

•The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

•The vehicle must be purchased after Feb. 16, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2010, to qualify for the deduction.

•The deduction cannot be claimed on 2008 tax returns.

So you may want to consider a new car purchase more seriously before this tax incentive expires on January 1, 2010. Come down to L.A. Car Connection and let us help you choose your next vehicle.

The Result of the L.A. Auto Show

Even though there have been some serious ups and downs in the automotive industry and it’s had some major dire straits in the past year, none of which stopped the L.A. Auto Show from happening.  As always, The L.A. Auto Show was held at the L.A. Convention Center, starting on Friday December 4^th until Sunday, December 13^th. The whole L.A. Car Connection, Inc. team had the opportunity to go down last week and see the latest and best of the automotive industry. Here are the top ten best new cars:

1. The Audi E-Tron: This Vehicle was one hot looking car. Reviewers were calling it the new “green sports car”. The vehicle is powered with four electri c motors, and a lithium ion battery pack, producing 315 hp.
2. The Jaguar XJ: Jaguar really stepped up their game with the Jaguar XJ. With a sleek body style, and luxurious interior, their German competitors had nothing on them.
3. The Lexus LFA: Eric Brooks, President of L.A. Car Connection, Inc. actually had the opportunity to drive one of these sexy cars a couple months prior to the L.A. Auto show. Eric says “there is nothing like this car.”  This car may have taken awhile to come around but with a speed reaching 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, this car is made for anyone with the need for speed.
4. BMW Vision EfficentDynamics: To describe this vehicle in one word, that word would be unique. BMW plans to continue to make diesel based- plug in hybrids for all their future cars. They’re claiming that this one-of-a-kind will deliver M3 performance.
5. Cadillac CTS Coupe: This is a personal favorite for one of the employees at L.A. Car Connection, Inc. This car is said to be the super classy, very fast station wagon. This two door coupe has a small bumper and smaller curb weight, and is anything but boring to drive.
6. Mini Roadster Concept: If you have never been a fan of mini coopers, just wait until you see this baby. While not as nimble as the original, this new and improved mini cooper gets amazing speed and handles remarkably.
7. Ford Fiesta: Reviewers and local newspapers are comparing this closely to the Honda civic. This vehicle has a very sleek design with the practicalities of everyday driving. Great gas mileage, and overall a great little commuter car.
8. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG :  This Mercedes is not a direct descendent of  the Mercedes 300SL, but is very similar. The SLS AMG, is half the price ($455,000) of the Mercedes SLR, but just as good, if not a little bit better.
9. Porsche 911 GT3 RS: This Porsche is the most performance based Porsche made to date. But hey, that’s what makes them such amazing cars.
10. The Buick Regal: A new Buick Regal was launched in China in November 2008 based on the Opel Insignia.In November 2009, in Los Angeles, GM introduced the car to the North American market. Although such a success in China, let’s see how this vehicle does in the U.S.



Too Busy to Get Your Car Washed? Try Mobile Detailing

Many enjoy the luxury of getting into a new, freshly washed vehicle but unfortunately do not have the time to either get a quality wash. In between, soccer practice and late nights at the office your find yourself not taking care of your second biggest investment you’ll make….Your vehicle.  Here are some benefits of mobile detailing as an alternative.
1. Protect Your Investment – Think detailing is a luxury service? It’s actually preventative maintenance for the interior and exterior of your car. Failure to properly maintain your vehicle could lead to paint oxidation/fading, clear coat failure, faded trim, and even faded and/or cracked interior plastics and leather surfaces. Regular details ensure that these parts don’t break down over time, which keeps your car in good shape for years down the road.

2. Clean Interiors Are Healthier – What people don’t realize, the average person spends 2.4 hours or longer in their car a week. When your interior is not cleaned on a regular basis, dust mites and other allergens can develop quickly. A detailed interior promotes a healthier environment for you and your passengers.

3. Professional Detailers Do It Right – When you have a problem with your car, you take it to a mechanic because they know cars and have the proper tools to make the repair or if you’re sick, you go to your doctor. It’s the same principal when having a professional detail your car. We have the equipment, products, and expertise needed to do the best job and to do it correctly.

4. Higher Resale Value – Look at it from a different point of view– Would you buy a dirty scratched up car?  Not likely!  A thorough detail before you sell your car increases your chances of it selling quickly, and at a higher price. The extra money could be used towards the purchase of your next vehicle.  This also helps when you turn in a vehicle coming off a lease.  If your car is left in horrible shape when its turned in, you will more than likely be paying a hefty cleaning fee from the leasing company.

5. Enjoy That New Car Feel - Professional detailing performed on a regular basis is a effective way to keep your car looking great and feeling like new.  It’s the next best thing without spending the money on a new car!

6. Portray The Right Image – As quoted in Entrepreneur Magazine “To many, the appearance of a clean, well cared for vehicle, dictates the projections of the owners own personality and upkeep”

Safest Cars of 2010

Last Wednesday, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety awarded 27 vehicles for receiving the highest ratings for “safest vehicles for 2010”. All 27 vehicles received an award recognizing them for doing the best job against protecting motorists in front, rear, side and rollover crash. All vehicles feature, Electronic stability control (EST), which is a new state of the art anti-rollover technology.

With a new criterion, the numbers were cut in more than half. 94 were tested and approved in 2009, in comparison to the 24 this year.

Ford Motor Co. and its Volvo unit received the most awards with six, followed by five awards apiece for Japanese automaker Subaru and German automaker Volkswagen AG and its Audi unit. However, Subaru was the only manufacturer with an IIHS in all four vehicles classifications in which it completes.

“With the addition of our new roof strength evaluation, our crash test results now cover all four of the most common kinds of crashes,” said IIHS president Adrian Lund in a statement. “Consumers can use this list to zero in on the vehicles that are on the top rung for safety.”

Below is the IIHS list of vehicles given a top safety pick.

LARGE CARS: Buick LaCrosse, Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS, Volvo S80

MIDSIZE CARS: Audi A3, Chevrolet Malibu (built after October. 2009), Chrysler Sebring (4-door with optional ESC), Dodge Avenger, Mercedes C Class, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Volkswagen Jetta (4-door), Volkswagen Passat (4-door), Volvo C30.

SMALL CARS: Honda Civic (4-door with optional ESC, except Si), Kia Soul, Nissan Cube, Subaru Impreza (except WRX), Volkswagen Golf (4-door)

MIDSIZE SUVs: Dodge Journey, Subaru Tribeca, Volvo XC60, Volvo XC90

COMPACT SUVs: Honda Element, Jeep Patriot (with optional side thorax airbags), Subaru Forester, Volkswagen Tiguan

L.A. Car Connection, Inc. has the ability to get almost any make or model vehicle you choose. From Fords to Ferraris, to Hummer and Hybrids, L.A. Car Connection has the connection to get them all!

Feel free to check out our NEW WEBSITE and use our “Vehicle Finder”, to build your dream vehicle!

The New Lexus LFA Debut!

Sexy, Sleek, and Stunning are three words to describe the new Lexus LFA Supercar. On October 21, 2009 Lexus announced the official launch of their new, two-seat supercar. The new LFA Supercar is scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010, but the pre-sale started on the 21^st of October. Only 500 units of the LFA will be produced and sold worldwide.

This past Wednesday, November 11, 2009 Eric Brooks, President of L.A. Car Connection, Inc. had the opportunity to ride in one, of three that are available in the world. Brooks sat shotgun next to professional driver, Scott Pruett when they reached a speed of 170 mph around the almost three mile racetrack. Brooks describes the experience as exhilarating. “There is nothing like this car, it truly is a one-of-a-kind.” Says Brooks.

The car has been quoted by experts, saying “The LFA is Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one.”

The vehicle has several appealing features.  The LFA has a newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine. With its very compact size, (smaller than the average V8), and incomparable power, it allows for optimal power-to-weight ratio.

The transmission along with the engine is placed within the wheelbase. With optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank being in front of the rear axle, this sleek beauty has exceptional performance and remarkable stability.

You can find a prototype of the LFA , now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefectu.

Why one should always remember to bring toilet paper to Willow Springs Race Track:

“Whoa….that was even a close one for me.” Says Derek Bell, 5 time Le Mans Winner and famous sports car racer in England.  Bell made this comment as he was going into a right hand turn at a speed in excess of 130 mph; standing on the brake pedal, in the soon to be released, 2010 Bentley Continental Supersport…..and I was riding shot gun.

At the willow springs race track, they don’t take racing lightly. Being a L.A Car Connection’s account executive, I had the opportunity to partake in the Bentley Supersport Driving Event on October 21, 2009.

The event started with a group of us not knowing what to expect for the day. The instructor came out to explain to us of the four exercises planned for day.  The scene was exhilarating. There were over a dozen of the new, and some not even released, 2010 Bentleys there.

After some much needed instructions on the day’s actives, we got all “geared up” for the first exercise.

The first exercise was the electronic stability program exercise.  The exercise was performed in a Bentley that DID NOT have ESP Control. We were instructed to lay on the gas as hard as we possibly could and then once we got to the orange cones(after reaching approximately 40 mph), to let their foot of the gas and turn the steering wheel to the left as hard as we could, then immediately turn the steering wheel to the right. This exercise was designed to simulate the everyday occurrences that can happen to the everyday driver.  The Bentley spun out of control.

The second exercise was very similar except this time we drove the same Bentley WITH ESP control. This time when we reached the cones we were going about 80 mph. We repeated the same immediate left and right turn, and much to our relief we had complete control of the automobile. The ESP control that Bentley has installed in their automobiles is a phenomenal. Hopefully all manufactures will incorporate something of this nature in all vehicles to add to the many safety feature found in today’s vehicles.

The third exercise was the slalom course. This is what we had all been waiting for.  After the first two exhilarating exercises we didn’t know what to expect. This exercise was set up with ten cones spaced about 15 ft apart and we were instructed to weave the Bentley in out and around the cones. With zero roll and sway, the Bentley handled this course remarkably.

When our instructor handed us a helmet we were required to wear for this exercise, we then knew why we needed to bring the toilet paper. We were told it was basic exercise of going around the racetrack. Then we were told we were going to be doing this at a rate of speed in excess 100 mph.  This exercise was to allow us, the driver to really experience the power, the finesse and the true capabilities of the Bentley Supersport. What a remarkable automobile!

The day ended with one more trip around the track for each other of us. We were able to experience a true racecar driver, Derek Bell and his ability to handle this car as I have never seen done before. The speed matched with the control , left Derek with a statement of, “Whoa, even that was close for me.”

Benefits of Leasing

Benefits of Leasing

Automobile leasing can be a very attractive alternative to buying for so many people. So, what benefits does leasing provide when compared to conventional purchase loans?

Lower Monthly Payments
Because you’re only paying for the portion of the car or truck that you actually use, your monthly payments are 30%-60% lower than for a purchase loan for the same term.

More Car, More Often
Since your monthly payments are lower, you’ll be able to get more car for your money and drive a brand new car every two to four years, depending on the length of your leases.

Fewer Maintenance Headaches
Most people like to lease for a term that coincides with the length of the manufacturer’s warranty so that if something major goes wrong with the car, it’s always covered.

Lower Upfront Cash Outlay
Most leases require little or no down payment, which makes getting into a new car more affordable and frees up your cash for other things. Furthermore, in most states you don’t have to pay a big upfront sales tax when you lease.

Lower Tax Bite
In most US states and in Canada, you only pay sales tax on your monthly lease payments, instead of the entire value of the vehicle.

No Used Car Hassles
With leasing, the headaches of selling a used car are eliminated. When your lease ends, you simply turn it back to the leasing company and walk away, unless you decide to buy or trade it.

Early Lease Termination
Lease contracts are purposely written to discourage, even prevent, early termination. To do so usually means you’ll pay a termination penalty and all remaining payments. Therefore, if you lease, you should have a stable lifestyle and a good job situation to minimize the possibility of needing to terminate early. Wanting or needing to end a lease early is the most common problem people have with leasing.

Celebrating 16 Years!

On September 15, 2009 L.A Car Connection. Inc. celebrated 16 years of unparalleled customer service. From Hummers to Hybrids, from Fords to Ferraris, no one has to travel further than a phone call or their driveway to purchase a vehicle from L.A. Car Connection, Inc. As part of the purchase, Eric Brooks and his team, offers a “door to door” delivery service of any vehicle to anywhere.

L.A. Car Connection, Inc. (LACC), established in 1993, is a professional new and used car buying and leasing service located in Westlake Village, California. LACC is known for its stress-free alternative to purchasing or leasing a vehicle and has the ability to offer discount pricing you can’t find at your local dealership. Even in today’ economy, Eric Brooks and his sales team are eagerly sought after by customers looking to buy or lease, even when leasing has been quoted as “dead” due to cut backs and market trends.

LACC offers customized financing and leasing programs for just about anyone. Over their 16 years of a satisfied clientele and their superb door-to-door customer service, celebrities and auto-enthusiasts continue coming back to LACC over and over again. Brooks and his team are known throughout Southern California and their high-class reputation is quickly spreading to other states including Nevada, Arizona and even to Florida.

Brooks knows that his relationships with banking institutions and car retailers are the reason why LACC has been so successful over the years. Brooks and his team have the connections to find even the “hard to get” vehicles, or any car you desire. The reason Brooks has generations of relationships with his clients? He listens to them and has an uncanny ability to recommend the right choice of vehicle based on the buyer’s needs. “We don’t have customers, we have life long friends”, said Eric Brooks, President of L.A. Car Connection, Inc.

With LACC’s stellar reputation over the past 16 years, their clients and now friends, always keep them on speed dial. If someone is interested in purchasing a car, they call L.A.’s best car connection, describe the kind of car they are looking for and then sit back and relax while LACC searches until they find it.

Once the car is found, LACC offers aftermarket upgrades from custom wheels and tires to mobile office equipment with copy and fax machines. Brooks understands the importance of personalized vehicles and works hard to deliver a one-of-a-kind spectacular upgrade that exceeds your expectations.

The ease of car buying is all about the experience, right? Well, then L.A. Car Connection, Inc. is driving in the right direction and if you want, right up to your door. That’s what I call “Driving Customer Service into Reality.”