The Italian Fiat 500 has been reborn. Upon reaching the US, the stylish hatchback won the hearts of many enthusiasts and owners alike. Still, even the 500 can have a breakdown. Let’s take a look at some potential Fiat 500 mechanical problems and their associated costs. After the Fiat factory or extended warranty has expired, [...]
Americans spend up to 1.6% of their before tax income on car maintenance and repair. And this may increase, since the average US household vehicle is getting older. So when it comes to car repair, what are some of the most expensive breakdowns? Let’s find out. Pay for the high cost of repairs with an [...]
Today’s used auto market has plenty of non-gasoline vehicles to choose from. What should you look out for when buying a used hybrid or electric vehicle (HEV)? Let’s find out. Buy any used car with confidence. Get a pre-purchase used vehicle inspection from CARCHEX before you buy. Battery The fuel cell is the most important [...]
Typically, the most reliable cars get all the attention. But there are certain models out there you should be aware of due to their low reliability rating and poor resale value. Plus, if you already own one of these, we offer some coping strategies. Let’s learn more. If your car is out of warranty, pay [...]
The Nissan Leaf is a technological and ecological marvel. Plus, the Leaf’s modern styling makes it a standout among electric car competitors. But any vehicle can have mechanical problems, and the Leaf is no exception. Let’s take a look at some potential Leaf repair problems and their associated costs. The Nissan factory warranty is 36 [...]
Emissions testing determines the level of air pollutants emitted from the exhaust of a motor vehicle. The first emissions testing was done in California in 1966. Since then, many states began requiring testing for all registered vehicles. If a vehicle fails the emissions test, repairs must be done and the vehicle retested. Pre-purchase vehicle inspections [...]
Flying cars may not be available to the public any time soon, but the reality of car connectivity is booming. Self-driving cars, for example, have been on the roads for years, and the technology is advancing rapidly. Let’s look at some other trends that modern technology brings to automobiles. High tech is expensive to repair. [...]
If you donate a car to charity, the standard tax deduction is $500. To take a higher deduction, you have to know how much the charity gets from the vehicle sale. You’ll provide the details to the IRS on Form 823. If the charity plans to use the car, they should provide you with a [...]
There are several ways your car can serve as a tax deduction. Work related miles can almost always be taken as a deduction. Also, miles driven to care for a rental property may be tax deductible. Even damage to your car might be written off in some circumstances. Finally, if you drive to take a [...]
The Toyota Prius is a technology packed road machine. The full-hybrid electric car continues to set the standard in its vehicle class. But even the legendary Prius can have mechanical problems at some point. Let’s look at some common Prius repair problems, when they occur, and their associated costs. The Toyota factory warranty is 3 [...]
