Posted by admin on January 27, 2012
Buying a new vehicle, whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth time, is a big decision. Maybe you’ve been driving to work in the same ride you got over a decade ago and it’s finally time to upgrade to a new Chevy Malibu. Whatever your situation, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet wants to make the car buying process a pain-free one for you. Before you begin the new car search, check out these tips from Johnny Londoff Chevrolet, a trusted St. Louis Chevy dealer. WAIT! There is more to read… read on »
Posted by admin on January 14, 2011
Growing up, the phrase “do your homework” always came with a feeling of dread…and the response “Do I have to?”
Fast-forward to adulthood, “do your homework” applies to making significant decisions, including venturing into making financial commitments. When it comes to buying a new vehicle, automotive industry estimates suggest that 70 percent of buyers finance their new vehicle purchases.
With that in mind, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet presents a brief rundown on points you need to know when wading into landing that new Chevy Cruze!
Break Down the Numbers. By and large, this is the most crucial step in making your new car purchase. Why? A financial commitment such as a high car payment can put the brakes on a monthly budget, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. A rule of thumb to consider is simply this: up to 20 percent of your month’s net income should be budgeted towards a new vehicle. Also take into account any additional “hidden fees” like auto insurance, taxes and title costs in that budget.
Fit. Once you determine how the monthly payments fit into a budget, you’ll need to figure out what vehicle fits your needs. A decision on what new vehicle to buy comes down to personal preference, so consider the following in the process as you make your evaluations…
- Environmental friendly? City or highway driving? A subcompact vehicle may suit your needs
- Have a family or expecting a little one soon? If so, one of these vehicle types would suit your needs: a station wagon, a mini-van or an SUV?
- Image conscious or entering a mid-life crisis? Perhaps a sleek convertible or a sports car should be the choice.
Do Your Homework. Remember what we said earlier? By doing extensive research in your new vehicle process, you should be well prepared before stepping foot onto the dealership floor. Websites like ConsumerReports.com and Edmunds.com provide in-depth reviews and ratings from staff writers and vehicle owners—past and present—that can prove indispensible in making your selection. Couple website research with knowing what the current interest rates are and you’re well on your way to getting a deal that’s workable.
So if you’re in the market for the all-new Malibu or the red-hot Equinox please use our Black Book® evaluator to get the right trade-in value for your vehicle.
To experience the Johnny Londoff Chevrolet difference for yourself, stop by our dealership at the Washington & Elizabeth exit in St. Louis or visit us online 24/7 at Londoff.com!
Posted by admin on January 7, 2011
After years of driving the same car and dealing with nagging repairs, you’ve reached the breaking point – it’s time to pull the trigger and get a new vehicle.
But the decision is marked by the all-important question that comes across the minds of those looking at a new vehicle: buy or lease?
At Johnny Londoff Chevrolet, we’d like to provide a basic primer on whether buying or leasing is the right move for you to make.
Ownership. When selecting the leasing option, you’re not the vehicle’s owner. In most cases, the leasing company is generally the owner. That means that once the term of your lease expires, you can either return the vehicle or you can buy it for the residual, i.e. the amount you can buy the car for at the end of the lease. If you’re a new vehicle buyer, you’re the sole owner and can maintain ownership once the loan term is complete.
Monthly Payments. Monthly payments are typically lower when one selects the leasing option. This is because Leasing payments only includes vehicle depreciation. When consumer’s option for buying, they’re paying for the entire purchase price, plus interest and other fees that are typically included (taxes, fees and interest).
Your Mileage May Vary. If you make frequent trips from St. Louis, Missouri to Schenectady, New York, buying is the best option as there are no mileage caps. By piling on the mileage, though, you’re running the risk of significantly reducing your vehicle’s value when it comes time to sell. An annual mileage cap, however, hamstrings a lessee. A lessee usually has a range of 12,000 – 15,000 miles per year but can negotiate for a higher cap…for a fee. Additionally, drivers are penalized for exceeding their mileage limits—to the tune of 10 to 15 cents per mile.
So if you’re in the market for the all-new Silverado HD or the red-hot Chevy Cruze, please use our Black Book® evaluator to get the right trade-in value for your vehicle.
To experience the Johnny Londoff Chevrolet difference for yourself,stop by our dealership at the Washington & Elizabeth exit in St. Louis or visit us online 24/7 at Londoff.com!
Posted by admin on August 13, 2010
The Chevy Aveo provides drivers with a dependable, fuel efficient automobile.
Starting at just $10,330 – Johnny Londoff Chevrolet’s Aveos get 35 miles per gallon highway. During the warmest months of the year, your car burns through gasoline faster than any other season; get the most for your money with the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo. Not only will this vehicle save you trips to the gas station, it comes equipped with OnStar Safe & Sound – so you can rest assured knowing that your car will keep your loved ones safe in case of an emergency.
Kelly Blue Book said the Chevy Aveo is “..a smartly styled subcompact, which offers excellent fuel economy, a long list of standard features and a bargain-basement price. The Aveo’s appeal extends to budget-conscious first-time buyers, anyone on a limited income and unhappy SUV owners looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient way of getting to and from the office. Available as a sedan or sporty five-door hatchback, the Aveo’s uncommonly high roof means tall occupants can sit comfortably in both front and rear, a major bonus for those who might stay clear of some small cars due to their cramped interiors. “
Stop into Johnny Londoff Chevrolet today to test drive your next Chevrolet Aveo.
Posted by admin on August 6, 2010
With more than 30 awards under its name, The Chevy Malibu has it all from its stylish looks, safety features, comfort and room and fuel efficient, this is a great ride all around.
Several awards the 2009 Chevy Malibu received was Best New Family Vehicle by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com and a Best Buy by Consumers Digest. The 2010 Chevy Malibu also has the best coverage in America with a 100,000 mile/5-year transferable Powertrain Limited Warranty as well as a Roadside Assistant and Courtesy Transportation Programs. The Chevy Malibu is engineered with 6 air bags and it has earned Five Stars for frontal and side-impact crash tests.
The Chevy Malibu has a sleek interior that is also equipped with standard conveniences such as a spacious seating and dual glove boxes. Bluetooth capabilities, Bose speakers, OnStar and XM Radio are all available. This vehicle is perfect for an individual who is looking for a comfortable, fuel efficient, stylish vehicle or if you have a family the Chevy Malibu is a midsize sedan that is spacious and comfortable for all passengers.
We have more than 30 new and pre-owned Chevy Malibu’s on Johnny Londoff Chevrolet’s lot, you are sure to find one that is perfect for you and your family. Stop by to test drive one of our best sellers, the Chevy Malibu.
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Posted by admin on June 22, 2010
In order to keep your vehicle looking the best condition we recommend that you wash your vehicle by hand. There are a variety of products & services available to assist in cleaning your vehicle and we have put together a list of tips for washing your vehicle.
- Products Needed:
- Watering hose
- 2 Buckets
- Vehicle soap product (ensure that this product is adequate for your vehicle)
- Tire cleaning product(s)
- Washing mitts or sponges
- Drying towels – we recommend microfiber towels
- Steps to Wash Vehicle:
- Wash your wheels first.
- Spray each tire and wash the wheel with a tire cleaning product of your choice and then rinse off with the hose.
- Mix your vehicle soap product & water into 1 bucket.
- Put only water into the 2nd bucket for rinsing your washing mitt or sponge. You do not want to use the same bucket as your soapy water to rinse.
- Soak your washing mitt or sponge in the soapy water & ring out.
- Wash your vehicle from top to bottom in sections & rinse often.
- Do not wash your vehicle in the direct sunlight.
- Once you have washed all areas of your vehicle give it one last rinse and dry the vehicle from top to bottom with the drying towel of your choice.
Once you have completed the steps above your vehicle is clean. You can go above and beyond by using a wheel wax, polishing products, a clay bar to remove hard to remove contaminants and glass polish for the windows. Good luck in your washing adventures!
Posted by admin on June 9, 2010
Whether you are in the market to purchase a new or pre-owned vehicle or to lease a vehicle, there are very important decisions to make prior to making the purchase.
- Compile a list of needs and wants: The most important thing is to determine what you need out of your vehicle; whether you drive over 100 miles a day and need a fuel efficient vehicle or have 3 children to take to various games and events in which you need lots of room & storage. Several things to also take into consideration is where you park your vehicle at home and work and that you can easily pull in & out of the parking spaces. Listing what you need will direct you in the right direction of selecting the right vehicle for you versus a trendy vehicle that often leads to exceeding your budget.
- Lease vs. Purchase: When purchasing a vehicle typically the monthly payment and down payments are higher. Once the loan is paid off you will own a vehicle you can continue to drive or sell. When leasing a vehicle, the upfront fees and monthly payment are less expensive. At the end of the lease term you must return the vehicle leaving you to replace it.
- Budget: Establish what your monthly payment would be…realistically. There are various programs online that will assist you in determining the purchase price, interest rate and down payment based on your desired monthly payment. Estimate the length of ownership to determine the true cost of owning the vehicle. Keep in mind fuel costs, regular maintenance, insurance and depreciation when making your decision.
- Internet Research: There are hundreds and thousands of websites that will help you research your vehicles of interest. Compare several based on your needs to find the perfect match. When you have completed your research, contact the Internet Manager via phone or email to schedule an appointment and confirm your vehicle of interest is on the lot.
- Test Drive: Make sure you drive several of the vehicles you researched to compare. Drive the vehicles in the conditions of your typical daily route. If you have long commutes, drive the vehicle at highway speeds along with stop and go traffic. Test the breaks in an empty parking lot, sit in the backseat, get in and out of the vehicle several times. Determine if this is the vehicle that fits your needs list.
Purchasing or leasing a vehicle is the second largest expense outside of a house purchase. Make sure you take it seriously and find a vehicle that you are comfortable with physically and financially for several years. By making a smart decision in your next vehicle purchase, you will save hundreds of dollars over the life of your ownership. Good luck and happy shopping.
Posted by admin on April 6, 2010
Buying a car on the internet is still a new practice, relatively speaking. You might be apprehensive about purchasing a vehicle online but dealerships have made it easier than ever to buy a car without stepping foot on the showroom floor.
Search at YOUR Leisure
You’re busy.
Driving to a dealership to look for car, though important, may not be at the top of your priorities list – You might need to find a sitter for the kids, and find time to drive out to the dealership to browse cars. If you live in a rural community or small town, driving to a dealership may be a day-long event. Maybe you’d have to move meetings around, or don’t have transportation to get to the dealership.
Car dealerships have made the online buying experience almost effortless; but not all are the same. Some go the extra mile to ensure you’re satisfied by including features to assist customers such as the option to chat live with a sales representative and virtual test drives.
Not only can you build you car EXACTLY how you want it, you won’t be left second guessing yourself because you’ll be able to get a full 360 degree view of your new vehicle. Dealers make sure your experience online is just as easy as a trip to the dealership.
Intimidation-Free
For some, the thought of buying a car sends chills down your spine.
Bad reputations from untrustworthy businessmen have ruined the reputations for dealers everywhere. Rest assured – you can trust car dealers, their primary concern is your satisfaction (not to mention, unsatisfied customers can spread the word quicker than ever on the internet.)
Searching for a car online not only lets you search at ease with no obligations, but lets you check consumer reports on your potential vehicle seconds after you’ve found it!
Put Your Mind at Ease
Don’t let this exciting purchase stress you out.
Looking for your next vehicle online gives you the freedom to search whenever you’ve got a free second. In 10 minutes you have the ability to look at a plethora of cars, take a few virtual test drives, and get in contact with the dealership.
Purchasing a vehicle is the second biggest purchase of your life, next a house. Let us make the process as easy as we can for you.
Posted by admin on March 23, 2010
Buying a car is the second largest financial purchase you’ll make in your life next to your home. It’s essential to make sure your finances are in order before taking the plunge.
Research
It’s never too early to begin planning your next automobile purchase. Do your research and find out what dealerships in your area have to offer. Check online for prices, specials, and what the dealer can offer you after your car is purchased.
Is it going to be a long-standing relationship afterword, or will you be forgotten as soon as you leave the lot?
Make sure you’ve chosen the right car.
Though this is really obvious, be sure you’ve chosen a car that you’re 100% happy with. You don’t want to be stuck with vehicle payments for the next few years on a car you aren’t happy with. Check out reviews online, read consumer reports; take your time in choosing – this is a big decision.
What’s better for you? New, Used, or Lease?
Purchasing a new or used car is a matter of personal preference. When you lease a car, your monthly payments are lower than buying with an auto loan. If you don’t have enough money for a down payment, or if you trade your car every few years, a lease may be perfect for you. Many dealerships make purchasing a new car possible by offering 0% financing on vehicles.
Decide how much you can pay.
Once again, do some research online and find the best deal available. Don’t buy more than you can afford – remember: the monthly payment may sound nice, but be sure to calculate the total cost of the vehicle. You don’t want to get in over your head.
Consumer reports suggests: To get a ballpark figure for the monthly payment, Consumer Reports’ financial experts recommend that your total debt payment be no more than 36 percent of your gross income. Going by this rule, you can use the following steps to determine how much you can afford:
- Calculate what 36 percent of your gross monthly income is.
- Itemize and total all your monthly payments, including your mortgage or rent, credit card bills, and other installment loans.
- Subtract the total of your monthly payments from the 36 percent figure.
By following these steps you will have the ability to obtain a car you love that will last you for years to come.
Posted by Jason on February 2, 2010
You’ve decided it’s finally time to purchase your first car- but you can’t just jump right into it. Take some time to determine your needs, price point, and possible barriers your might run into.
1) Make sure you get insurance quotes first
Be knowledgeable about what you’re going to have to pay in insurance- you’ve got several options so be sure to choose something that fits your needs the best.
2) Research your financing options
Be sure you know how much interest you’ll be paying BEFORE you purchase your car. Check out local dealerships and see who’s offering 0% financing.
3) Make sure you’ve got the money to put down
In order to keep yourself from getting upside-down, make sure you’ve got 20% of the purchase price to put down on the car.
Barriers
- Lack of credit history is the biggest barrier, it is very difficult to get a car loans
- Lenders won’t approve car loans on used cars older than 5 years
- Insurance rates for teens especially are very costly, often in the $5000 range
- Insurance rates for single males under the age of 25 are also very costly.
You will qualify for a loan if you have…
- A documented Monthly income of $1600 or more
- Been living in the same address for at least 6 months
- Been employed by the same company for 6 months
- If your credit score is below 600, it’s very difficult to get approval, and below 550 it is nearly impossible.
If you’ve got all your ducks in a row and are ready to purchase a new car good luck! It’s a great experience!
