Winter Wiper Blades

Is it necessary to change your wiper blades to Winter Blades?
Winter Blades have a rubber sheath over all of the moving components inside of the wiper. These are springs built inside of it to actually hug the wiper blade tight to your windshield. You have probably already noticed in the wintertime, you're driving along and try and use your wiper blades, they won't touch all of the windshield itself. It'll actually leave streaks and portions of it that are un cleaned. This is from is from ice, debris, and snow, getting inside of the springs and keeping them from contacting your windshield. What the rubber sheath does is keep those formed particles from affecting the way the mechanics of the wiper blade has been designed to operate.

Is it a good idea if you do a lot of driving in the wintertime to go ahead and change out your wiper blades? You decide!

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas from all of us at Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales!

Stranded in Bad Weather

If You Become Stranded in bad weather ...

•Don't leave your car unless you know exactly where you are, how far it is to possible help, and are certain you will improve your situation.

•Light two flares and place one at each end of the car a safe distance away. Hang a brightly colored cloth     from your antenna.

•Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes every hour or so depending upon the amount of gas in the tank.
•Use the woolen items and blankets to keep warm and to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia .

•Keep at least one window open slightly so snow and ice don't seal your car shut.

•Eat a hard candy to keep your mouth moist.

Getting Stuck in the Snow

Unfortunately getting stuck in the snow  is unavoidable in NEPA. The following are a few tips to  help get you out:

1. Do not spin your wheels.( This will only dig you in deeper)

2. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.

3. Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.

4. Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.

5. Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.

6. Try rocking the vehicle.  Shift from forward to reverse, and back again. Each time you're in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going.

An emergency situation on the road can arise at any time and you must be prepared. Along with having a full tank of gas,  you should carry the following items in your trunk:

•Properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod-type jack •Shovel •Jumper cables •Bag of salt or cat litter and  Tool kit.

                                                      Drive Safely from all of us at Car-Lotta

Driving in Winter

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it.

Don't go out until the snow plows and sanding trucks have had a chance to do their work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination.

If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared and you know how to handle road conditions.You might want to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy, open parking lot, so you're familiar with how your car handles. Consult your owner's manual for tips specific to your vehicle.

Keep following for more tips on how to handle different driving conditions and winter driving techniques!


For more information visit National Safety Council.

November Trivia Answer

The Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales monthly e~letter trivia answer for November is...


Question:     What is the most common non contagious disease in the  world?

Answer:        Tooth Decay


If you did not get it right, try again next month. Good Luck!

Taking to the Woods

If your place of work is anything like ours you are probably short a few people today -


Pennsylvania’s only unofficial holiday begins today at sun rise when a group larger than the standing armies of most nations shoulder their rifles and take to the woods marking the beginning of a two week firearms deer season.

Between 850,000 and 900,000 men, women and children ages 12 years and older are expected to take part in the first day of the two-week deer season. In some parts of the state, schools are even closed for the first one or two days of the season.

If you or your family members are taking to the woods~
                           Hunt Safely

Visit   http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/pgc/9106 for more information on Hunting in NEPA!

Happy Thanksgiving

Millions of Americans are celebrating Thanksgiving today, a holiday tradition that dates back hundreds of years. President Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving official in 1863. He proclaimed the last Thursday in November to be "a national day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent father who dwelleth in the heavens."


When most of us think of that first Thanksgiving we think about Pilgrims and Indians. For a lot of people, Thanksgiving has become a day to watch football, eat turkey, and watch the Macy's Day Parade. While these are not bad things, the most important part of Thanksgiving is giving thanks to God for our many blessings.

          Happy Thanksgiving
from all of us at Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales

Thanksgiving Travel

Did you know that an estimated 38.4 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home for the Thanksgiving weekend? The average distance traveled will be 815 miles, but more than a third will travel 250 miles or less.
Driving will account for most of the travel increase, with 33.2 million Americans expected to travel by car . 3 million will travel by air and travel by train, boat, bus and other means is expected to be around 2.9 million Americans .

Traveling during the holiday seasons can be a bit touchy. Here are a few tips to keep you safe:

Plan to leave a day early this year and beat the traffic.

Check that automobile and make sure it is sound.

Pack some snacks and drinks.

Stop along the way. It is a good idea to stop every 2 or 3 hours and get out of the car.
Change drivers if the present driver becomes tired.


Thanksgiving weekend is historically the busiest to travel each year. Whether you are traveling across country or across town- TRAVEL SAFE  !

Winter fuel-Is there really a difference?

Yes there is!!

The difference between conventional summer- and winter-blend gasoline has to do with the Reid Vapor Pressure of the fuel. RVP relates to the volatility of a gasoline. The Environmental Protection Agency says conventional summer-blend gasoline contains 1.7 percent more energy than winter-blend gas, which contributes to the summer blend’s slightly better gas mileage. Cars using summer-blend gasoline spew fewer harmful emissions and get slightly better fuel economy than those using winter-blend gas during the summer months.

It is recommended a switch between the two fuels happens twice a year, once in the fall (winter blend) and again in the spring (summer blend). Summer-blend gasoline is typically more expensive to produce than the winter blend, and it won’t affect vehicle performance or the durability of the engine and fuel system, according to the EPA.

What fuel is in your vehicle? Odds are that living in  NEPA you are probably already filling up with Winter Blend.

Have you thanked a Veteran today?

Veterans Day- also known as  Armistice Day in the Unites States  or  Rememberance Day in other parts of the world  is  Thursday, November 11th this year marking the anniversary  of the signing of the Armistice that brought an end to World War I. It is on this day that the people of the United States take  to time  remember and honor the veterans of the armed services. This day is set to aside to show the veterans just how much that they are appreciated for the sacrifices that they have made for the United States.

Are your Tires Ready for Winter?

Your winter tires are not designed just for snow – they provide increased traction in cold conditions too. Make the switch to winter tires when the temperature hits 45 degrees. Take care of your tires during winter and they will take care of you.

In winter regions, it is recommended  that drivers switch to winter tires when the temperature dips below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the temperature drops below that level, so does an all-season tire’s ability to grip the road.

Many cars in the U.S. have all-season tires, but they aren’t built to hold the road in the same way that winter tires do. Winter tires are specifically built to deliver a 25 to 50 percent increase in traction over all-season radials. That’s enough added traction and braking power to avoid a severe weather-related accident.

 Take 5 minutes every month and think PART :                      
                    
                    PRESSURE
                                                           
                        ALIGNMENT

                        ROTATION

                         TREAD

Check your tires, including the spare. The  benefits far outweigh the time it takes.

Don't forget to "Fall Back"

       On Sunday, November 7, 2010 at 2 a.m. 
  Dont' forget to set your clocks back one hour! 


The phrase "Spring forward, Fall back" helps people remember how Daylight Saving Time affects their clocks. At 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March, we set our clocks forward one hour ahead of Standard Time.. We "Fall back" at 2 a.m. on the first Sunday in November by setting our clock back one hour  returning to Standard Time.

Daylight Saving Time was instituted in the United States during Wold War I in order to save energy for war production by taking advantage of the later hours of daylight between April and October.

Arizona (except some Indian Reservations), Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa have chosen not to observe Daylight Saving Time. This makes  sense because these  areas are  closer to the equator because the days are more consistent in length throughout the year.


http://www.about.com/

Winter Sales Hours

Winter Sales Hours   Effective November 1, 2010


              Monday thru Wednesday 9 am to 7 pm

               Thursday thru Saturday 9 am to 5:00 pm

                         Sunday~ CLOSED
*************************************************


Customer Service ~ Payment Center Hours

       9 am till 7 pm  Monday thru Friday 

              9 am till 5pm on Saturday

                CLOSED~ Sunday

October Trivia Question Answer

Thanks to the many that submitted answers to the October Trivia Question posted in our October e~letter: 

Question:          What percentage of  American men have not had a vacation in the past year:

 Correct answer:        72% (Vitality magazine).  that was a tough one!

                       Happy Halloween from everyone at Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales
                                                    Car Lotta Credit.com

Distracted Driving .. not only texting

 Distracted Driving is not just texting. The same thing applies to eating and drinking – they shouldn’t be done while driving. Most cars these days come with cup holders, it’s true, but there’s nothing that says you have to use them while driving. Eating is even worse than drinking.  If you are  going to be eating you should either get out of your car to eat, or eat while the car is parked and then resume your driving. You may be thinking this sounds like overkill, but it’s not. Odds are you probably won’t have a wreck while sipping on a soft drink or eating a hamburger, but you’ve greatly increased your chances of it happening. Your odds of not having a collision are much greater if you don’t do these things.

Ask yourself this:    What would it mean for car safety if everyone on the road were eating a sloppy double cheeseburger while driving? Do you think car safety would go up, or go down? When you think about it that way it becomes clear just what safety risks eating and drinking in your car are. Fast food is sloppy and messy and often quite hot, and it can cause you to lose control if you drop it. Soft drinks are ice cold and can spill, having the same effect. Even without spills you just cannot control a vehicle as well with a drink or a burrito in one hand. It’s simply impossible.

Get out of the fast-food-while-driving habit ~ you’ll be safer.

For more information on distracted driving  visit http://www.safetyresource.org/car/eating.html

5 Ways To Help Your Child Do Better In School

With school starting back up, CarLotta Credit and Car Sales thought these 5 ways to help your child do better in school could be very helpful. As a parent, after working a hard and long day yourself...it is easy to forget about your children's needs sometimes...

1) Listen. Listen, really listen without tv or other distractions, to what they tell you about their day. How do you feel when are trying to tell someone you care about, how your day went and they just "yes" you to death and watch tv? You can find out so much about your child just from this step. Are they feeling bullied? Are they happy with their teachers? Is the bus ride okay? Do they need help with their homework?

2) Read To Your Kids. When they are young, read to them. When they are older, read with them and encourage them to read on their own. If you feel books are too expensive to buy, there is always the library. The type of book or subject is less important then the actually reading. Set aside limited times for tv, video games and computer. This will give time for reading. How about trading 1 hour of tv for each 1/2 hour reading?

3) If they need help with their schoolwork, give it to them. If you do not feel qualified to help them with 7th grade math for example, ask around. You'd be surprised how many adults, and older kids, are good at school work...and are willing to help for free. You just have to ask. What help and support are available after school or in school?

4) Look at your child's homework and read their reports and papers. Give encouragement, maybe fix a spelling error or two and just show that you care. It is not about you helping them get an "A". It is about you caring about what they are working on and spending their entire day worrying about.

5) BE POSITIVE. It can be very difficult after a long day, but reward their effort with encouragement. How hard do you work if someone is on your case and negative every day?  How about hiding a funny card or note in one of their books or tablets to bring a smile during a hectic day, or before a test? The small things do help.

These are just 5, but you see what I mean. If you love them...tell them and show them every day.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com
 

How To Lower Your Car Insurance Rates

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales we are always looking for ways to help you save money...here are a few tips to save you money on your car insurance.

* Sorry to say, but your driving record is an important part of your insurance cost. If you try to...obey posted speed limits, avoid parking tickets, stay alert and undistracted (like cell phones and nooooo texting),  drive slowly and defensively...you will have a lower rate than someone who does not do these things.

* Shop your policy around with different agents, on line insurance companies and types of policy. All you need is an internet connection these days to see what prices you can get. Just Google..."low cost car insurance" and see what comes up.

* Raise your deductible. This can save you money, but be sure if you have a car loan on your car, that you abide by the bank or finance company deductible maximums. Also, don't raise the deductible so high that you are not able to pay it and get your car fixed in the event of an accident.

* Combine your home or apartment insurance with you car insurance for an additional discount. Some companies will give you more of a discount if you give them more of your business.

These are just a few ideas. Give them a try. We all would like to have a few dollars in our pockets right now.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Benefits Of Buying A Car From CarLotta Credit

Here are just a few of the benefits of purchasing your next vehicle from CarLotta Credit...

* Selling cars to people with credit issues, is our only business. This is  what we do since 1986 every day! Nothing you have to say is going to embarrass you or surprise us. We will make you feel comfortable and try to see if we can help you with your vehicle needs. No pressure to buy.

* All vehicles are serviced in our shop by qualified technicians. In fact, we spend for repairs and reconditioning on average over $1000 on every car we sell!

* All cars come with the exclusive CarLotta Credit warranty.

*  Since the successful completion of your loan is our goal...we aim to have every vehicle, and payment affordable to your individual situation.

* Our cars are vehicles you can be proud to own.

* At CarLotta Credit, your on time payments can help you improve your credit rather quickly. We report to the credit bureau monthly, to give you the fastest improvement possible. Most of our competition DOES NOT report to the credit bureaus.

*   Our 3 convenient locations make your vehicle shopping very easy.

* Our web site offers on line credit info submission,  our blog, and a convenient way to make your payment 24/7 from the comfort of your own home.

This is only  a few reasons to make CarLotta Credit and Car Sales the place to buy and finance your next car!
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Why Should You Use Coupons When Shopping?

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales we ask the question...Why should you use coupons when you shop? There are many sources of coupons out there that you may not have even thought of. Coupons can be "2 fors...", "% discounts", or "$1 off".

* If you look for the coupons for the stores you like, say in the newspaper on sundays, there are pages of them. Try Googling your normal stores and type in coupons after their name. You may be able to get codes or printable coupons on line.

* Stores try to lure you in with the coupons. Be careful not to buy too many full price items in the store after you have used your coupons. If you need to shop multiple stores to get your bargains, it amy be worth it.

* Keep your coupons organized and with you. If you see one you might use, file it. But, if you do not have it with you, it won't help you. Keep them in your purse, wallet or car.

* Make a list when you shop and check off the items you need and the coupons you have.

If you consistently use coupons, you will save money.
Carlotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Inexpensive Ways To Have Fun With Your Family Even During The Recession

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales we believe that this tough economy does not have to be boring or ruled by your TV schedule. You and your kids can have fun, spend some time together and not spend a lot of money. Try these...

* Do you have a green thumb, or want to? Gardening is inexpensive, fun with kids of all ages and can be beautiful if you plant flowers and bushes, or healthy if you plant vegetables or tomatoes. You do not need a lot of space. Live in an apartment? Try window boxes. A small yard, use some scrap lumber and make a few outside boxes in your yard.

* Camp in your backyard or a local campground. Pick a nice night and you do not even need a tent. Tell stories, look at the stars and talk.

*  Check out UTube with your kids. Look for the funny PG rated videos and see who can find the funniest.

* Do a Garage Sale and raise extra money. The set up and running of a sale is a great activity for kids.

* How about a weekly family day?  Each one could be a little different. For example, one could be playing cards or card games. Another would be board games. How about an art night with some painting, cutting out things or making funny posters. Use your imagination.

Someone once said that, the best thing you can spend on your kids and each other... is your time.
All these activities have one thing in common. You will be spending more time with your kids.

5 Helpful Tips To Renting An Apartment

At  CarLotta Credit and Car Sales, we know that sooner or later everyone needs to look for an apartment or move from the one they live in now. Here are 5 tips to make this process a little easier.

1) Depending on your income, and the area you live in ...there may be some assistance available to you in the way of rent subsidies. Check out this website for general info Section 8 Housing assistance.   You can also go to this website for a listing of the County Housing Authorites that administer this program.

2) How much does it cost? It is not just the cost of the rent, are you responsible for anything else? Is heat, electric or any maintenance your responsibility? This stuff can add up. What is your budget? Try to establish a budget and stick to it.

3) What are the schools like in the area you are looking at? How far are the schools away from the apartment? If they do after school activities, the closer the better. If your kids will be riding the bus, where is the bus stop? School quality can make a huge difference in your kids future.

4) Review the lease and/or rental agreement. How long does it last? What are the conditions that could lead to you being asked to leave? Noise, cleanliness, garbage, rental deposit, pets? Read it, if you are unsure of what to look for, have someone you trust read it.

5) Is the apartment safe? Does it have smoke detectors, fire escape (if second floor), proper exits? Is the electrical service up to code, stove and furnace been serviced? Do the locks on doors and windows work and who has the keys?

These are just the basics, but they can save you time and trouble. Good hunting.
Carlotta, http://www.carlottacredit.us/

5 Things That Should Always Be In Your Car

CarLotta Credit and Car Sales would like to remind you...No matter what the weather, summer or winter, these are the 5 things you should always have in your car. I did not list a cell phone, as just about everyone has one nowadays.

1) First Aid Kit. You never know what can happen. If you have kids, this is even more important. You might want to add a few extra bandages to the kit. They are small and are not affected by the temperature changes in your car.

2) Flashlight. The best one is the type that you hold in your mouth, or the kind that strap on your head. This will free up your hands for whatever might need to be done.

3) Jumper Cables. You left your lights on and the car won't start. The battery is old and  failed. This handy item is often used and easy to store.

4) Spare Tire. Whether it is a full sized tire or a space saver, check it to be sure it is the right size for your car and is filled to recommended air pressure. In addition, be sure you have the jack and tire wrench to remove the flat tire and put on the spare tire.

5) Blanket. In case of an accident, or illness,  a very comforting item.  

All these items are reasonably priced and make your life much easier in an emergency.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

This Months Trivia Question Answer

This months CarLotta Credit and Car Sales monthly newsletter trivia question was....

Question: What problem did Leonardo DiVinci, Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, Thomas Edison and General George Patton have in common?

Answer: Dyslexia

This amazed me, that these people could accomplish what they did with this as a liability.
If you did not get the answer, try again this month.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

6 Ways To Make Extra Money

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales we know this is a tough economic enviornment, and all of us could use a few extra dollars. Here's 6 ways to do just that.

1) Do Odd Jobs In Your Neighborhood. You can do every thing from cutting grass, weeding, moving furniture, painting, sweep driveways, take out the garbage and more. Anything that is to small for contractors and maybe too hard or time consuming for your neighbors. Use your imagination.

2) Good at Computers? There are still many people that are struggling to work with their home computers. If you are good at this, advertise and see if there is a need in your area. Craigslist is free to advertise.

3) Dog Walking Service. Dogs just don't need to go outside to poop you know. They need exercise also. Do several at once. In fact, the exercise may be good for you too.

4) Sell Unneeded Items. EBay, Craigslist and the local newspaper. Get rid of it all. Junk to you may be treasure to someone else.

5) Garage Or Tag Sale. Clean out your garage or basement. Your neighbors may even want in on this and be willing to do it the same weekend you want to. It will draw more buyers this way.

6) Get A Part Time Job. It could be some nights or weekends. Think of it as temporary until you get back on your feet. Walmart, all the fast food restaurants, the mall, and the temp agencies can all use a few good people.

You may be able to come with more ways.
CarLotta Credit, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

How To Clean Your Cars Interior

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales this car care tip can save you money...
One of the easier things you can do to maintain your cars value and appearance is to keep the the interior clean.

* Remove all garbage and trash, if not daily at least weekly.
* Vacuum carpet well, and remove floor mats to vacuum underneath if need be. Don't forget your trunk.
* Vacuum the seats, and any nooks or crannys you see.
* Wipe down all vinyl and leather trim inside the car with  some kind of cleaner, such as ArmorAll.
* Clean your windshield and all window glass.
* If needed, you can buy the spray-on carpet shampoo and vacuum it up after it dries. Read the instructions, some do vary.
* Don't forget to use some kind of fresh fragrance also. It could be a spray or something like the "pine tree" scent we see all the time.

It takes a few minutes, but does not cost you much. Give it a try.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

5 Reasons To Go Back To School To Improve Your Career

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales we know how tough this economy can be...
If you've been laid off, lost your job or if you are stuck in a dead end job, then perhaps you're considering improving your education, and going back to school.

Here's why you should go back to school to change or improve your career.
* More qualifications will help you to get a better job. Perhaps you didn't really work hard at school, and want to make up for it now.
* A career change may be in order if you were laid off or you place of employment closed. Maybe its time for something different.How about a different field...medical, office staff, legal staff, teaching?
* Returning to work after bringing up your children, you might find that your existing skills are out of date, or no longer needed . You want to get up to speed with the changes in your industry and areas of expertise.
* Specialize in something in particular, then you might need to have additional qualifications. You might have finished your forklift operator training, and now you want to switch to medical.
* Get updated on new technology in your current field. How about computer training?

Keep in mind, with todays long unemployment benefits, you might be able to complete your training or degree while collecting. In addition, there are grants and monies available to reduce your cost for any classes taken.
Don't forget about community colleges, technical schools and business schools. They are cost effective and may be just what you need.

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

 

How And Why To Check Your Cars Fluids!

At CarLotta Credit and Car Sales we'd like to help you save some of your hard earned money...
A major component of car care is making sure your fluid levels are in check.
Those are... your engine oil, your transmission fluid and your engine coolant (anti-freeze).

* Engine Oil levels should be checked monthly. In your engine compartment, find your dip stick, pull it out, wipe it off, shove it back in and carefully pull it back out. Your oil should be a nice brownish color. It it's black or has "clouds in it", it's time for an oil change. If it's cloudy, you may have bigger problems and you definitely need to have it looked at. Look at your dip stick after a fresh dip and make sure your oil line is where it should be. There is an indicator on the stick that will help you determine that. If you need oil, either top it off with some new oil or bring it to someone who knows how to add oil, if you don't. Your oil should be changed out completely every three months or 5000 miles for optimal results.

* Transmission Fluid is very much like checking your oil but for most cars it has to be running and in park. Pull your dip stick, wipe it and shove it back in and pull out again. This time look at your levels, again there is an indicator to help with this. Transmission fluid should be a red color and should not smell likes its burned. If levels are low then either top it off or see your local lube shop for some assistance. Transmission fluid change intervals can vary widely for each type of car. Check your owners manual for recommendations.

* Engine Coolant (antifreeze) needs to be at a proper level. Coolant does just what is sounds like, it cools the engine.  Make sure your engine is off and that your vehicle is completely cooled before you touch your radiator cap. Make sure your car is on level ground. If your coolant is low, certainly add more but know that if this keeps happening, you probably have a leak and you need to have your radiator checked out soon. Coolant should be changed about every 2-3 years.

These are the basics, but they can save you time, trouble and money down the road. 
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Care & Feeding Of Your Cars Exhaust System

At CarLotta Credit and Car sales, we know your monry is important to you...here are a few tips to help.
The exhaust system is seldom noticed by car owners until something is wrong.
An exhaust system is metal piping system used to direct burnt gases away from the engine running into the muffler and going out in the open air. It will include several of the following systems:

* Starting at the engine, exhaust manifolds are intended to gather exhaust gases spent by burning fuel and channel them into one tube. They are often made of cast iron to endure the extreme heat. They are extremely durable and will normally last the life of a car. If they do fail, it is normally a stress crack. This may be able to be welded or replaced. Any leaks in your exhaust system can be dangerous as gases may leak into the interior of the car.

* Next in line is the muffler. The main function of a muffler is to reduce exhaust noise. They are along the exhaust pipe and it uses a resonating chamber which is constructed to reduce the sound coming from the engine.These do wear out and need to be replaced. Rust from the outside, or condensation from the inside are the main culprits.

* A catalytic converter follows the muffler and is a mechanism used to decrease the amount of poisonous gas emitted from a combustion engine. Since the late 1970's , it is used today in the USA and other countries around the world. It uses a reaction (chemical or metal) to "trap" some of the worst of the pollutants emitted by your cars engine. The accumulation of the pollutants does cause them to fail every 70,000 miles or so. Your vehicle will not run properly, and some cars will not run at all if the converter is blocked. A blocked converter can also cause you "check engine" light to come on.


* The pipe and the tail pipe is the end of the exhaust pipe where it vents to open air and it is used to connect the other components together. This pipe, and its connectors do rust and may need to be replaced

Because it is located externally and under the hood the exhaust system is easy to reach and you can do the repair yourself if you have the proper equipment. Otherwise just bring your car to the nearest repair shop so your exhaust system can be fixed. We recommend the muffler chains (Cole, Mieneke, Midas) as they are usually less expensive and give a lifetime warranty. Get a quote from 2 different shops just to be safe.

With proper care and feeding your cars exhaust system will last a long time and will not need major repairs.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

This Months Trivia Question Answer

If you've been following our "E-Letter" each month, you know about our trivia question and the prizes you can win.
This months question was...
"Before the introduction of the hair dryer in 1920, what common household appliance was promoted for its hair drying ability?"

The answer is...
"The vacuum cleaner."
It could be converted into a hair dryer by attaching a hose to the exhaust port.

Keep trying and if you are not a receiving our E-Letter monthly and would like to, send us an email at...
m-ajayne@carlottacredit.us

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

How To Change A Flat Tire

It is good to know how to change a flat or damaged tire.Like everything, with a bit of instruction, when faced with a flat tire you should be prepared.
* The first thing you need to do it identify which tire is flat, could be bulging from the low air pressure and look flat compared to the others. However if you have trouble you could use a digital tire pressure gauge to tell you which tire is losing air.
* The second thing you'll need to do is get the required tools, in new cars the tools will most definitely be with the spare tire or in the trunk somewhere. Older cars may not have these tools as the previous owner may have kept them or lost them. (a tire iron /socket wrench and car jack) are all there in case you need them.
There should be a specific point on the body work of the car that is designed for the jack to attach to, using the tools, find the point and ensure the jack stays in place. You should be careful to make sure you don't use the jack in the wrong place as this can damage the bodywork or trim. Before raising the car you will need to loosen the nuts on the wheel you are replacing, this is because the wheel will simply spin round if you try to loosen the nuts once elevated. Be sure you are on level ground and base of the jack is solid and not wobbly.
Make sure you loosen or tighten nuts in opposite pairs; this is the safest way to use wheel nuts according to mechanics.
* Once the wheel nuts are loose, begin raising the car up on the jack, only raise the car as much as is needed, any more and you could make the car unstable and it could fall off the jack. It is always safest to use a jack on a clear flat surface so it doesn't slip, if you have stopped on gravel you could place a piece of strong flat wood underneath the jack to secure it.
Once that car is raised on the jack remove the wheel nuts completely and lift the wheel away from the car, you need to store this wheel in your car. Next you need to bring out the spare tire and place it on the car, attaching the wheel nuts again. Once they are as tight as you can get them, lower the car off the jack and tighten up the nuts again with the tire iron or wrench.
* Your car should now be safe to drive, however depending on the vehicle, your spare tire may not be suitable to drive on indefinitely so it is advisable to drive to your nearest garage or tire store to get your main wheel repaired. It is also important to remember that some spare wheels are only designed to be used at low speeds so consider this if you are traveling on a highway.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

200,000 Miles And Beyond, More Reliable And Long Lasting Cars

 This is a blog post I came across that talks about the increased quality of cars well over 100,000....all the way up to 200,000 miles by Gary Hoffman. Good article.

Is 200,000 Miles The New 100,000? 

Some Owners Push The Limits Of Their Odometers

Gary Hoffman, Correspondent, AOL Autos

The dream of putting 200,000 miles on your vehicle – once restricted to an assortment of auto buffs and non-conformists willing to spend a small fortune on repairs -- is fast becoming a real possibility for millions of drivers..
Not so long ago, people counted themselves lucky if their car made it 100,000 miles before it gave out. As late as the 1980s and 1990s, many odometers didn’t even carry enough digits to handle 100k.
But to echo the hopeful baby boomer assertion that 60 is the new 40, one could say that 200,000 miles is the new 100,000 – thanks primarily to improvements in quality.
Consumers are embracing the idea if the statistical studies and the growing number of “high mileage” car clubs around the country are any indication.
One of the groups, the Allpar 200,000 Club, boasts 4,000 members. They consider it a point of pride to be able drive Mopar / Chrysler products with more than 200,000 miles on them.

Last year, the “Cash for Clunkers” program, designed to boost auto sales and get gas-guzzling vehicles off the road, showed just how high the age of cars, trucks and SUVs has risen.
The typical vehicle turned in under the program last year was 14 years old and averaged 160,000 miles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Since it took a bonus of $3,500 to $4,500 to persuade owners to turn these vehicles in, thousands of them would likely still be on the road and accumulating mileage if they hadn’t been scrapped.
Outside the bonus program, the average age of scrapped vehicles lately has been nearly as high as the “clunkers’” -- about 13 years, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
To some extent, tough economic conditions are leading consumers to hang onto their cars longer, said Lonnie Miller, vice president for marketing and industry analysis at R. L. Polk & Co., a publisher of automotive data. “People are cooling their jets on buying new vehicles.”
But the trend was underway well before the last downturn. Average vehicle age has climbed steadily for a decade, Miller notes, going from 8.8 years in 1999 to 10.6 years late last year.
He believes longer warranties and financing contracts are two key factors behind the trend, along with the higher vehicle quality.

The longer life spans could be just the beginning. Many of the “clunkers” turned in for scrapping last year were manufactured in the mid-1990s. Experts expect longer life spans from the technologically advanced cars sold today.
Studies by J.D. Power & Associates, a consumer and product research firm, do suggest that cars are being built to last longer, Miller noted. In its latest dependability report, the firm said that overall performance of vehicles after three years of ownership was “at an all-time high.”

Between 2003 and 2010, average number of problems per 100 vehicles plummeted from 355 to 155 industry-wide, according to the company. Twenty-five of the 36 brands in the study showed improvement.
“I have a hard time criticizing any company that builds or sells a car in this country,” said Matt Keegan, publisher of two automotive web sites “The quality is so much higher than it used to be.”
In many cases, quality no longer varies substantially from one car brand to another either, said Erich Merkle, a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based auto analyst and publisher of the autoconomy newsletter.
“The Detroit 3 have improved to the point of taking that differentiator away from the Hondas and the Toyotas.” Owners have to be conscientious about maintenance, of course. In return, they get the chance to bring their future costs under control. With longer warranties to reduce their financial risks, Miller said consumers are poised to “steer their own automotive destinies.”
“If you are presented with good products, you have the opportunity to get some of your money back after your purchase. A car today can really last if you take care of it.”
Richard Kahn, the publisher of a Subaru website, The Subaru High Mileage Club and owner of a New Hampshire landscaping company, pushed a ‘93 Subaru to 282,000 miles.
He changed engine oil every 5,000 miles, usually with synthetic oil. “I don't ignore little noises. I have them addressed right away.
"It helps to have a solidly built vehicle to begin with. But if it is properly maintained even an unreliable vehicle can probably do better than a solidly built vehicle if you neglect the maintenance."
After 13 years on the road, his Legacy was a bit rusty but it still ran. Kahn was able to trade it in on a new Subaru Impreza WRX. "If I had known that I could have bought replacement body panels, I probably would still have it."
"I don't believe in letting things die," he said. "Quite frankly, I don't like the whole new-car car buying process" Kahn launched subaruhighmileageclub.com in 2000. He says nearly 1,000 Subaru owners use the site, which includes a forum where they can trade tips on keeping their cars running.
Most owners would rather not drive their vehicles into oblivion, of course. The average driver keeps a new vehicle nearly 6 years -- up from about four and one-half years in 2002, according to R.L. Polk figures. Then it is sold once or twice, on average, over its lifetime.
Even if owners aren’t out to set mileage records, careful adherence to maintenance schedules pays off in a higher resale value.
“If you do the recommended maintenance, you will be selling a car that should still be in good condition after 100,000 miles or higher,” Keegan said.
The trend toward greater vehicle longevity is not hopeful sign to everyone. Efforts to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions could falter if consumers hang onto cars with older technology for years.
And the auto industry naturally would like to see people tire of repairing their vehicles.
In 2009, consumers stayed away from dealerships in droves, with consequences that were disastrous to the industry and communities dependent on it. New car sales fell to less than 9 million units a year, compared to more than 17 million in its heyday.
Merkle said it may take several years to reach 16 million units a year or more. But he expects automakers to rely on new technologies and designs to lure owners out of their aging sheet metal.
“Many people don’t buy new vehicles because they need to,” Merkle said. “They buy them because they want to.”

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

What Do I Do If I Have A Service Problem With My CarLotta Car?

Well, that depends.
* If you are IN the warranty period for your car give us a call so we can schedule an appointment to diagnose and repair your car. Keep in mind, you may have to pay a deductible before the work is done by us. Most deductibles are $106 ($100 deductible and $6 sales tax). 

* If you are OUTSIDE the warranty period, or if it is not a covered repair....give us a call first anyway. We may be able to diagnose and repair the vehicle for less than you can get it repaired elsewhere annnnnnnd
we may be able to finance part of the repairs to keep you and your car driving and on the road. This option is available as long as your account is up to date.

Keep in mind, we invest over $1000 per car in reconditioning cost and repairs before we put it on our lot for sale to you. We do our best, but once in a while, we may miss something. If you think that has happened, please give us a call and let us check it out. We want you to be happy with your vehicle.

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

If I Don't Have My Down Payment Now, Will You Hold The Car I Want Until I Do?

Well, the short answer is no, we will not hold it for you. But...there really is no reason, as we have new inventory arriving 3 times each week. In addition, we have trade ins, and we buy cars from people that just want to sell them also.

We stock over 100 cars per month at our 3 locations. If we don't have it at this moment, it is sure to be on its way in. If you don't see it on our lots, ask, it may be in service or in our clean up / recon areas where we wash, wax and shampoo the interiors of all our cars.

Keep in mind, on average we put $1000 of repairs and / or reconditioning costs into each one of our cars BEFORE it is sold to you. It takes time to do this and the cars are not put on the lot until they are ready. 

If you see a car on our lot and don't have your down payment yet, stop in and see us. We will surely have another very soon if not right now at another location. In any case, if you are looking for a particular vehicle, we either have it now or will soon.

Stop in, email or call...we will be able to help you.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

What Is A "Co-Signer" On A Car Loan?

This is not the legal definition of a co-signer, so please get advice on your own if have additional questions...but these are the basics of the responsibilities of a co-signer at CarLotta Credit.

* A co-signer is responsible for paying the loan back IF the person they co-signed for defaults (does not make their payments). This could mean that you are responsible for the entire balance of the loan, even if you are not in actual possesion of the vehicle.

* You will be asked to supply some credit information in order for a loan decison to be made.

* If you did not make those payments, it could affect your credit rating as well.

Some guidelines for co-signers....

* Make sure that you can afford the car if the buyer does default.
* Be sure you have a long term relationship with the buyer, to make it worth your while to take on this responsibility.
* Ask the loan company to contact you and keep you posted as to the progress and timeliness  of the buyers payments to prevent surprises.

There are good reasons to co-sign  a loan for someone, just make sure you understand the responsibility.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/
 

Some Differences Between CarLotta Credit And Other Car Dealerships

Here are a few differences between CarLotta Credit and other car dealerships....

* We know and assume that you have credit issues when you stop by, call or email us. We great you with a smile and a hearty handshake and appreciate your business. We understand that good people can and do have credit problems. At some dealerships, when you tell them you have credit issues, they may not be very happy about it or helpful.  

* Nothing you tell us is going to surprise us, or embarress you. For over 24 years we have helped people just like you. Anything you have to tell us, will be handled professionally and held in confidence. Selling and financing cars to people with credit issues is our only business, this is what we do.

* Most dealerships are trying to make as much money as possible on every customer they sell...at CarLotta Credit our #1 goal is to make sure the car is affordable to you and fits in your budget. We want you to be able to afford your payments and pay your loan. Its better for you, and us.

* We report your on time payments to the credit bureaus on a regular basis, this can improve your credit score over time. Most other dealers do not do this.

*  Most of our payments are set as weekly. This helps you judge your budget and stay current with your payments.

This is just a few of the things that make us different. Stop in, call, or email us and let us actually show you!
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

This Months Trivia Question Answer

 This months trivia question answer is...drum roll please....

Question: 

 What did Lizzie Borden, Napoleon, and Titian have in common?              

Answer: They were all red heads.

I did not know that....if you did not get that one, watch the next newsletter and try again.

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Do You Accept Unemployment Compensation As Income For A Car Loan Approval?

The short answer is yes we do. The current unemployment benefits are so long now (and they are extending them all the time) that we may be able to structure a car loan using just those payments.

At Car-Lotta Credit we understand, it is pretty difficult in NEPA to find a job, if you do not have transportation. In the past, we would not use unemployment as income for loan approval. But if the rest of your situation falls into line, we will use it. The number one consideration will be, can you afford the payment with the amount of your compensation. You owe it to yourself to give us a call or an email if you have any questions about this one.

During this recession, many things are being done that people would not ordinarily do. This is one of them. We can help you.

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Need A Short Term, Part Time, Good Paying Job?

If you are in need of a good, short term, well paying job...check out the Census Bureau for the position of "Census Taker" .

Their web site is Census Jobs 2010 Website

Good pay, flexible hours, paid travel, paid training, weekly pay periods, and get out to see your neighbors in the community. All the info is at the website above.
Check it out.Who couldn't use a little extra money right now?

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

6 Tips For Summer Car Care

6 Tips for Summer Car Care

With summer coming upon us quickly, there’s no better time to get your used car ready for the heat and traffic the summer has to offer. Remember that keeping up with maintenance can save you money, and aggravation in the long run.

1. Have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician to find any problems before they get worse.
      * Have your coolant levels and coolant checked.
      * Have your brakes inspected.
      * Check your tires for proper inflation, alignment, and wear.
      * Check the battery.

2. Have your oil, oil filter, and air filter changed regularly.
3. Keep your vehicle clean, inside and out, for safety and better gas mileage.
4. Replace wiper blades.
5. Check to make sure all mirrors are operating properly.
6. Keep an emergency kit in the car...with jumper cables, a bottle of water, a quart of oil and a flashlight.

These sound simple but can save you some money and time this summer...enjoy!
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

What To Do If Your Check Engine Light Comes On?

What should you do if your check engine light comes on? It does not have to be on due to a serious problem, but it needs to be addressed.

* First, if driving, find a safe place to pull over to the side of the road. Turn the car off, wait about 120 seconds (2 minutes) and turn it back on again. Sometimes it will reset itself.
* If the light is still on, check the oil level, and coolant level under the hood. If it has oil and coolant at safe levels...
* Look around the car and under the hood for odors, or strange noises. If none...
* Was, or is the car doing anything different. IE: running rough, shifting in a strange way etc. If not...
* Drive it carefully and slowly to your home, if close or a service center to get it checked. If none are close, please call your closest CarLotta Credit office.

If the car is running rough, has no coolant or oil in it, is smoking, sounds funny or is shifting strangely...
DO NOT DRIVE IT!  You may damage it further and void your warranty. Give us a call so we can try to decide what the next best step will be.

Keep in mind, it is your car and you are responsibile for its health and maintenance. A little inconvenience now may save many dollars in repair bills.

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

What Are The Benefits To Our Customers Of Down Payments Starting At Just $500!

The benefits to you, our customers of CarLotta Credit and Car Sales downpayments starting at just $500 are ...

* We know cash is tight in this economy, a low downpayment on a car that is serviced and comes with a warranty helps you keep money in your pocket for emergencies
* Easy to afford
* The low down payments give us a real reason to keep you as a  satisfied customer. CarLotta Car Sales has more of our money invested in your car.
* We invest on average $1000 in repairs and service for every vehicle we put on our lot.
* Not only will you geta car, but also the chance to begin rebuilding your credit    


Now I can't guarantee that everyone will qualify for a $500 down payment on one of our cars...but we have cars at this down payment on our lot every day. Stop in and see us.

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

What Is The #1 Thing You Can Do To Make Your Car Last Longer?

The number one thing you can do to make your car last longer is to treat it like it's important to you.

Treat it like you need it to get to work, so you can earn money and can feed your family.
Treat it like, your rent won't get paid if you don't have your car.
Treat it like your family depends on it to get to school...baseball practice and to their doctors appointments.
Treat it like you paid, and are paying good money for it.

So how do you treat a car that is so important to you?
Take care of it. Keep it serviced (oil change), drive it carefully (to save gas and make it last longer), keep it clean (shows some pride in ownership to you and your family). 


Not too difficult is it?
Try it, you will be surprised by the results. What do you think?

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Top 5 Reasons To Buy Your Next Car From CarLotta Credit

Here are the top 5 reasons to buy, and finance your next car from CarLotta Credit and Car Sales...

1) Our cars start at just $500 down. If you are short on cash, it's a great way to get into a car today.

2) All cars come with the exclusive CarLotta Credit warranty on the powertrain.

3) All cars are serviced in our shop before you take delivery. They are PA state inspected and ready to go.

4) Your payments for your car will be based on your income and situation. Our goal is to have every car we sell and finance be affordable to our customers.

5) Your on time payments will improve your credit rating as we report to the credit bureaus on a regular basis.

With over 100 cars in stock today, and over 25 years experience in this business...we can help you.
Call, stop by one of our 3 locations or visit our web site at www.carlottacredit.com.


CarLotta, We can help you.

How to Interview For A Job

This post goes along with the previous one about laid off or lost your job. These are just a few basic tips.

1) What To Wear?
Men…no jeans, no sneakers, no tee shirts, no boots. Wear leather shoes, slacks or chinos and a collared dress shirt. You do not have to wear a tie and jacket, but recommended. A 2 piece suit is best. Be shaven, if you have a beard…cleanly trimmed. Be clean…showered, clean clothes, polished shoes and clean hands especially. Keep jewelry and make up to a minimum.

Women… no jeans, no sneakers, no tee shirts, no boots, NO SHORT SKIRTS and no low cut blouses. Wear leather shoes (with moderate heels) , slacks or chinos or a “business” style skirt or dress and a collared dress shirt. You do not have to wear a tie and jacket, but recommended. A 2 piece suit is best. Be clean…showered, clean clothes, polished shoes and clean hands especially. Keep jewelry and make up to a minimum.

2) What Type Of Job Should I Interview For?
It’s not just about experience, it’s about work ethic and reliability. If a job sounds good and you are interested in it, that’s okay. But, be prepared to tell your interviewer why you are right for the job.

Do you have any special skills or talents that may make you better for this job than someone else?

Will the job or career change be beneficial for me and my family down the road?

In todays job market, I believe you should take a job even if it does not pay exactly what you think you are worth. You can always continue to look and it looks much better if you are working and not just sitting at home. If you have bills to pay, take a job and try to get a second one part time. It will help your finances and show some intiative.

3) Prepare For The Interview
Have a good resume. This post is too short to cover resumes here but…be brief (one page), be concise and show a logical time line. Be as truthful as you can. An outright lie on a resume could sink you. In this job market, employers are checking previous jobs and calling references. Be forewarned.
You can Google..."How to write a resume" for some great free resources.

Know something about the company you are applying to. Check out their web site. Google them. Ask your friends and family if they have dealt with them. If you are going to bet your livelihood on a company, you owe it to yourself to check them out. Think of, and write down questions before hand.

Be on time, or at least 10 minutes early. They are busy and don’t appreciate you being late. Bring a paper and pencil to write questions down as you are talking.

Be friendly, smile and try to relax. When you leave, thank them for their time and get a business card from everyone you talk to. After you leave, send a “Thank You” email for their time and the interview within an hour of leaving. If you do not hear from them in 3-4 days, or within the alotted call back time period, call them and inquire. Be polite and be brief.

These are just a few tips. But, they can help you on that next interview.
Good Luck!

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Laid Off or Are Your Hours Cut?

This post raised some questions so I'm repeating it here.

Have you been laid off or have your hours been reduced?

There are a number of things you can do to supplement your income, or find a job quickly. At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we think this info can be very helpful.

* Start off by checking in with "Pa Unemployment Compensation", whether you are laid off or your hours cut, always the first stop. The link is below.
http://www.uc.pa.gov/portal/server.pt/community/uc_pa_gov/11449

* The next thing to do is check "Craigs List". The job listings are extensive, they are free to employers, and are taking the place of the newspapers in many cases and job types. You have to check back every 2-3 days or so though, as they change often. Also, it takes a few minutes as you have to search thru them. Good source and they cover the entire NEPA region. Link is below.
http://scranton.craigslist.org/jjj/

* The old reliable is the newspaper. As you will see from the links, they even use on-line job services themselves.

Scranton Times / Citizens Voice / Hazleton Standard jobs link (all owned by same company)
http://jobs.the570.com/?AR=ST

Times Leader jobs link (Wilkes-Barre)
http://timesleader.monster.com/

* You also should check out "Spherion Staffing Services ", a temporary job service. The have offices in   NEPA. They are easy to deal with and it could be a neat option. click http://www.spherion.com/

Be sure to let your Customer Service Rep (570-714-1971) know that your job situation has changed. He will want to be aware so we can work with you if need be. Let me know what you think. Comment below.

Carlotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

How To Improve Your Gas Mileage, Part 2

So many people asked us about this post, I thought I would add some more tips on how to save gas and money. Here goes...

* avoid long warm up periods in winter (or cool down in summer) with the motor running and the car stationary. 45 seconds is long enough.
* for every minute you idle your engine, it uses the same fuel as when you start it. If you are going to be sitting stationary for even a few minutes, don't idle, shut off the engine to save on fuel
* when starting and shutting off the engine, do not rev it up. It wastes fuel and serves no practical purpose
* avoid overfilling the gas tank up past the first "click" you hear from the nozzle. Overfilling can cause safety issues and some of the gas to overflow out onto the ground.
* this one may hurt, but due to increased wind resistance, always try to drive the speed limit. Try it on your next trip and compare your gas mileage. You will be surprised.
* good timing on this one, remove snow tires promptly when the weather changes. They use more fuel and the increased temperature of the road surface in warmer weather causes them to wear prematurely.

These are a few more tips on saving fuel and money with your car. I'll add more in future posts.
What do you think? Comment below.

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

CarLotta Credit & Car Sales Newsletter Trivia Answer

The CarLotta Credit & Car Sales Email Newsletter trivia answer for this month is...

"The Jordanaires"
They recorded with Elvis on January 11, 1956 during the recording of HeartBreak Hotel.

Hope you got this one right.
If not, watch for next months and see if you can win.

If you have suggestions for our newsletter or for trivia questions...let us know below.
We'd love to hear from you.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Will I Need A Co-Signer On My Loan At CarLotta Credit?

In general, no you will not need a co-signer at CarLotta Credit.

However, there are circumstances where you may (not definitely but) ...
* if you have only been in NEPA for a very short time
* if you do not have enough income to support the payment on the car you want, you may need assistance in making your payment affordable. Remember, our goal is to sell you a car you can afford, and that suits your needs.
* if you are under 21 and live at home
* if you are changing jobs or between jobs, we will still consider you for a loan, as we know that you need a car to be gainfully employed in our area.

Most of our loans do not have a co-signer on them. We want to look for ways to make a loan to a good customer who may have had credit problems in his / her past. So we will sometimes ask you for a co-signer to help us, help you.

How can we help you? Let us know how we are doing below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

What Are Your Hours Of Operation For CarLotta Credit?

All 3 sales locations of CarLotta Credit in Blakely, Kingston and Hazle Twp. are open the same hours.

Monday Thru Thursday,
9:00 Am to 7:00 PM

Friday & Saturday,
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Our customer service center is also open the same hours. If you need questions answered, or want to make a payment 24/7, you can use our web site at http://www.carlottacredit.com/

We try to make it easy for you. The web site means you can make your payment by check, debit / credit card or bank withdrawal anytime, anyday...whether we are open or not. What could be easier?

Is there anything else we could be doing? Let us know below.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Who Services Your Vehicles Before They Are Put On Your Lots For Sale?

CarLotta Credit & Car Sales 3 locations sell in total, about 100 vehicles a month. To be able to have those vehicles available for our customers, on our lot, and cleaned is quite an undertaking. To be able to do this up to our standards, we knew a long time ago that the only way was to have our own technicians at each location.

The technicians we hire and maintain come from multiple backgrounds, new car dealerships, self employed, military and technical schools. The important characteristic that they all have is this... they are very good at what they do.

We hire experienced technicians only and then train them to our way of doing things. You can be assured that your work is being done by a quality person, trained for the job at hand, reliable and cares about your car and his work on it. We invest an average of $1000 per vehicle to make sure they are ready for you.

Remember, we want your vehicle to operate reliably for you. Our goal is for every loan and every car to last for our customers. We want to have you return to us for another vehicle.

Comments below, let us know.

CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

What Is The Advantage To Me, As A Customer, Of CarLotta Credit Reporting To A Credit Bureau?

If you keep in mind that we have multiple goals at CarLotta Credit & Car Sales...for example, a quality car, with a warranty, and rebuilding your credit...it makes sense. When we report your on time payments to the credit bureau on a regular basis, it helps to improve your credit score over time.

Making a timely car payment is a quicker way to improve your credit score because

* the payment amount is regular (not like credit cards)

* the dollar amount financed is higher (better for your future lenders to see)

* the on time payments show a pattern of consistent payment history

* once your first car is paid off, you can upgrade your vehicle to a more expensive one and improve your score even more

So, the advantages to you are clear and tangible. It costs CarLotta Credit both time and money to report our customers scores. We do it, because we think it is one of the ways to help those people who really do want to improve their credit.

Let us know what you think.

CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

What Are The Benefits Of Making My Payments On Line At www.carlottacredit.com ?

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales we try to make it easy for you to make your payments on tme. Paying on line has these benefits...

* you can pay from the comfort of your home,
* it saves gas and time in travel
* you can pay after we close or before we open, the website is always open
* you get a receipt emailed to you
* if you have need of additional info on your account, you can email us
* it's fast and easy
* you can use a check, credit card or debit card

Try making your payments on line and see what I mean. It only costs $1 per payment made. How much time and gas does that dollar save you?

What do you think? Comment below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Who Is A Typical CarLotta Credit Customer?

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, especially in this current economy, there are no typical customers.

Some sources say that today, over 50% of the adult population has some kind of credit blemish on their credit report. This means that if you are in an elevator with 6 people in it, 3 of them have a credit issue. That means that there are so many more people that may need our services than perhaps, 5 years ago, who used to be able to purchase from a new car dealer. They come from all walks of life, live in apartments or homes, different income levels, have varying vehicle needs and budgets.

The one thing that may be common with all of our customers is the fact that they have had something happen in their past, that damaged their credit... and they need a reliable vehicle, in their budget range, to get to work. All this and they want to try to rebuild their credit also. At CarLotta Credit, we can help them all.

So, no matter what got you to a place where you now have credit issues...you owe it to yourself to stop in, email, or call your nearest CarLotta Credit office so we can show you, what we can do for you. What are you waiting for?

Comments, let us know.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

How To Improve Your Cars Gas Mileage

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we know everyones' money is tight right now. Here's a few easy, and inexpensive tips to improve or maintain your vehicles gas mileage.

* keep tires evenly, and properly inflated. If you do not know the proper inflation, look inside the drivers door jamb. There is a sticker there from the manufacturer to tell you the correct tire size and inflation. A few pounds of air can make a big difference.

* be sure to change your oil regularly. Any sludge build up, besides being bad for your car, is going to hurt your gas mileage.

* check and change if necessary, your air filter. A restricted or clogged air filter can block needed air from going into the engine properly.

* a tune up really is not necessary. A change of spark plugs though, can make a big difference.

* drive your car as if you have an egg between your foot and the gas / brake pedals . The biggest gain, easiest way and least expensive method to increase your cars gas mileage is to drive and operate the gas and brake like you have an egg under your foot. Use each pedal softly and don't break the imaginary egg. The easier you drive the car the better the mileage. Is it really necessary to accelerate as fast as you do now? Think about it at every stop sign, and traffic light. Make a game out of it and try to drive as softly as possible. Two benefits are, it costs you nothing, and it saves wear and tear on your car.

These simple inexpensive tips can save you money, and wear and tear on your car. Give them a try.
Any comments or questions, let us know below.
CarLotta, http://www,carlottacredit.com/

Spring Car Care Tips

The nice weather and spring approaching is a good time to do some simple, and inexpensive car maintenance and cleaning.

Try these tips...
* take your car to a hand held (wand type) pressure car wash, for about $2.50 in quarters you can wash down the outside really well, and be sure to spray inside the wheel wells and under the rocker panels (beneath the doors and under the car) as mud and salt get stuck there
* when you are done, give it a good interior vacuum and clean out any stuff left over from the long winter, this costs about $1.50. Don't forget to check the trunk for dirt and possible moisture.
* try a Jiffy Lube for an oil change, usually $25 or so, a clean motor is a happy motor
* look around the car for chips or rust spots, if you see some, try A&A Auto Stores or AutoZone for matching touch up paint, about $8.00
* lastly, look at your tires, do you have good tread on them? they should all be the same size, but they don't have to be the same manufacturer, if you need tires...look for sales or try a used tire store or even "Harrys U Pull It" for good used tires, used tire prices can vary...but they start at about $35.00 each, quite a savings

There are other things you can do, but this is a good start.
What do you think? Comment below.

CarLotta, http://www,carlottacredit.com/

We Recommend Pompey Collision For Your Accident & AutoBody Repair Needs

CarLotta Credit & Car Sales highly recommends...

Pompey Collision & AutoBody
338 Pierce St.
Kingston, PA 18704
570-288-6576

Why?
* they give a lifetime guaranty on all their work as long as you own your car
* their technicians are very experienced and do quality work
* they have a rental car company on site if you need one (extra cost)
* they have saturday hours
* depending on the dollar amount of damage they can work with you on the deductibles as a CarLotta credit customer
* they have 5 major insurance companies located on site and deal with all the rest

In the interest of full disclosure, one of the owners of CarLotta Credit, is also an owner of Pompey Collision. But, this is another reason to expect great treatment at Pompey Collision.

Have an accident, we can help you with that also.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Do You Use High Pressure Sales Tactics To Sell Your Cars?

Absolutely No High Pressure Tactics Are Used!

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we in fact do the opposite. Our credit evaluation and loan approval process is specifically designed to give you some time to consider your purchase and loan. We want you to be absolutely sure this is what you want to do, before you sign on the dotted line and drive home.

In fact, if you want to, you can even take the car to your own mechanic to have it checked out before you take delivery. That does not sound like high pressure to me. Let's face it, we want to have a long term relationship with you. Most of our loans are 2 yrs in term. We will be seeing a lot of each other during that time.

Keep in mind that the buyers order and sales finance contract you sign at delivery are legal and enforceable documents. So once they are signed, and the vehicle is delivered...it is yours. So take your time.

We do not scam or rip off anyone. We have no reason to and the fact of the matter is...we have enough customers not to have to resort to those tactics. We've been doing this since 1986 and know how to maintain a long term relationship with our customers. If you want to think about your purchase and loan, or take it to a mechanic...thats your choice and we are ok with it!

So take your time and look around.
Comments, let us know.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

I Don't See Many Pickups Or Work Vans On CarLotta Credit Lots, Why?

We would love to have more of them on our lots. It is very difficult to find these types of vehicles, in your price range, that pass our service center safety check process.

Most pickups and work vans are used hard by their owners for work and/or play time. When we do find them, they have been pretty well used up. The price range we sell vehicles in, needs to be low enough for our customers to afford. In this price range, the trucks and work vans cannot pass our in house service process. If it will not, or can not, pass our service inspection process, it does not go on our lot, or in your driveway.

What we do encourage our customers to do, is this. First, get a vehicle from CarLotta Credit that is serviced, has a warranty and your on time payments are improving your credit rating...and then, you can get that pick up or work van you may need.

Let us know what you think. Comment below.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Gas Prices Are Going Up...Time For A Better Car!

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we know that your budgets are strained in this tough economy. Did you know if you increase your gas mileage 20% (for ex: from 20 mpg to 24 mpg) that it is the same as paying 20% LESS per gallon!

That's right. I went to the gas station today (3/19/2010) for gas and paid $2.79 per gallon. If I increase my fuel economy in my car 20% from 20 to 24 mpg....it is the same as paying $.56 (20% of $2.79) less per gallon or $2.23 per gallon! Talk about stretching your budget.

If you upgrade your car and get a bigger increase in gas mileage than this your savings will be even greater. In addition, your upgrade car from CarLotta Credit will be serviced and it will have a warranty on it. You will save additional money by not having as many repairs bills. Check us out.

What do you think? Let us know, below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

How Long Will It Take To Be Approved And Drive Home?

Normally at CarLotta Credit & Car Sales the approval process takes about 20 minutes, the delivery really depends on you . If you have all the things we need to deliver the car, it will take an additional 20-30 minutes.

What do you need at a minimum...
* valid Pa drivers license
* income proof, depends on the type of your income
* your down payment
* car insurance
* a utility bill
* 1 months bank statement
* phone or cell phone bill

We may need more info depending on your situation, which may take a little longer. But realistically you could be in and out in an hour. If this doesn't work ,we can always bring you back in when it is convenient. See it really is easy.

What do you think? Let us know, comment below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Before I Take Delivery Of My CarLotta Credit Car, Can I Take It To My Mechanic To Have It Checked?

Yes you can.

At CarLotta Credit, we service all of our vehicles before we sell them in our own service centers. We spend an average of $1000 in reconditioning costs on each car! Only vehicles that pass our rigorous process get put on our lots, and are sold to our customers.

What we do ask, if you want to take a vehicle to your mechanic is this...
* you need to be approved on the vehicle you wish to have examined
* your technician has to have some "credentials", a shop of their own or some kind of certification, for example, your brother in law- the carpenter, in his garage is not really appropriate
* we would like a copy of the report from the technician for our files
* the vehicle has to be returned back to us the same day

If your mechanic finds something that we missed, we'll recheck it and fix it if we deem it necessary. If they don't find anything, you have the additional piece of mind that someone else looked at your car.

In any event, we are proud of our cars and their condition and have no problem having them looked at.

What do you think? Comment below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

5 Tips On How To Improve Your Credit Score

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we've seen many ways that people got into credit issues and their credit score went very low. The exact reasons are not important at this point...your credit is assumed to be already damaged. So we wanted to give you 5 tips to improve your credit score.

1) Get a copy of your credit report. If you don't know what so it, you can't address it. If you see any errors, start the process of getting them corrected. The 2 main credit bureaus are...
Experian http://www.experian.com/ and
Transunion http://www.transunion.com/
Both web sites give instructions on how to get your credit report and review them.

2) When looking at your credit report, pay off or try to settle all the small balances you may have hanging on you report. The fewer delinquent accounts, the better.

3) Check to be sure you are the correct person on the report. For example, is your uncle,son or father the same name as yours? Is your ex-wife/husband still have info on there should not be?

4) Try to pay your bills on time now, especially if a single incident ruined your credit...such as medical bills, or loss of a job. Be sure the bills you do pay on time are reporting you current to the credit bureaus.

5) Try to reestablish a high value credit item on your credit bureau and be sure they report your on time payments.

This last one is the one that CarLotta Credit can help you with. When you buy a car from us, we do report your on time payments to the credit bureau. It will help you improve your credit in the first 180 days. On time payments on a vehicle will help you more quickly than say, on time credit card payments.

The reality is though, no one can repair your credit except you. At CarLotta Credit, we can help you.

Let me know what you think.
CarLotta, http://www.carlottacredit.com/

Can I Really Post A Complaint Here?

Yes you can.

One of the reasons for this blog is to give customers the opportunity to tell us if they have a problem that needs to be resolved. We will act on it quickly and try to resolve your issues. Please give us your name so we can figure what we can do to help you.

Keep in mind, we are human also and may make mistakes. When we do, we will try to make good on them as best as we can. Also, when we do resolve it, or if we cannot...we will post both sides of the story for all to see.

Of if you need to speak to someone directly...
Blakely 570-383-7437
Kingston 570-287-5454
Hazleton 570-501-3636
Customer Service Center / Payment Questions 570-714-1971

Or you can go to www.carlottacredit.com and send us an email from the homepage..."Contact Us" button,

We are not a rip off used car lot. We have been in business for over 24 years in PA and value our customers and our reputation. If you feel a need to criticize, let us know. We'll try to correct it.

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales we want our customers satisfied with their vehicle and our service. We realize we cannot satisfy everyone, especially in the loan business, as some people will just not want to pay. Give us a chance to show you what we can do for you.

CarLotta, Comment or drop us line.

What Types Of Income Sources Are OK For A Loan Approval At CarLotta Credit?

Actually at CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, we accept many different types of income sources when we are looking at selling a car and extending credit. Here's a short list...

* your wage and earnings from a job, like a weekly pay check, monthly check and any bonuses you may receive
* social security income
* disability income
* child support and/or alimony and support
* we will accept unemployment compensation, especially now with the recession and the long benefits term
* self employment income, such as contractors or small business owners
* most buy here pay here dealers will not consider this one, but we will allow tips also
* in addition, if you have some sort of trust fund or annuity, that works also

We will ask for some items to back these up, and the dollar amount has to be sufficient to allow your budget to afford the car, but it is easy and fast. Our loan approval is about 15-20 minutes usually.

If you are in doubt our have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Or...comment below.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Do You Buy Cars From People Trying To Sell Them?

Yes, we do. at CarLotta Credit & Car Sales, just call, or stop by any of our 3 offices in Blakely, Kingston or Hazleton, and we'll give you a price to buy it from you in less than 30 minutes. If you have your drivers license and the title of the vehicle with you, you will leave with the check for the car on the spot.

In addition, sometimes if we are looking for a particular car for a customer, we will call similar cars listed on Craigslist, Penny Saver and some of the other local car classified listings to see if we can buy them from the people directly.

What kind of vehicles do you buy?
* we buy cars, trucks, pickups, minivans, SUV's and 4X4's
* the years we will buy are from 1997 to 2007
* mileage can be from 50,000 to 135,000 miles
* we do not buy salvage or reconstructed vehicles
* the price range is from $500 to $6,000

What do CarLotta Credit do when we buy a car from you?
* we ask you to make an appointment when our service technicians are available (mon - fri, 9am to 4pm).
* we will check your title for liens. These are loans againset it which prevent us from buying it without paying off the loan, we can still buy it, but we need to know.
* our technicians will then put the car on a lift in our shop, and do a basic inspection. It is essentially a Pa state inspection
* once that is done, we will review our findings with you, and tell you our offer to buy your car. You can then accept it or reject it, your choice. We end up actually buying about 75% of the cars we look at in this way. The inspection is at no charge to you, whether we buy the vehicle or not.

Our price is based on many things including the mileage, repairs needed on the car, age and general maintenance level amoung others. The big benefit to you is, you leave with a check in your hand and no hassles.

The benefit to us (and you) is, we have the opportunity to check the car before we buy it. This allows us to pay (you) more for the car than we would normally.

Do you have a car you want to sell? Give us a call, or email us.

Carlotta, www.carlottacredit.com

Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Used Car

At CarLotta Credit & Car Sales we know a used car isn’t just a way to get you to work, to school, or from point A to point B. It’s a purchase that can actually help you improve your personal and financial situation. It permits you to get to your job and earn the money you need to get back on the road to a better life. In NEPA the lack of adequate public transportation and the spread out nature of our area businesses (and jobs), make this even more important.

Your on time payments will help you rebuild your credit and we’ll report your payment activity to the major credit bureaus, which can result in a better credit situation for you.

It is your responsibility and very important to protect your investment in this vehicle though. And saving money is even more critical in tough economic times. One way to do both is to take good care of your vehicle. Regular car maintenance prevents small problems from becoming big hassles. Here are a few tips to keep in mind especially with used vehicles that have a few miles on their odometer:

Every three months or 3,000 miles, make sure you:
• Change the oil and filter
• Lubricate the chassis
• Check all fluid levels and fill if necessary
• Check your tire pressure and wiper blades
• Check all of your lights to make sure they work properly
Also keep in mind that you should replace your vehicle’s air filter at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. It’s a good idea to regularly check tires for signs of wear and to rotate and balance them occasionally to ensure they wear evenly.

CarLotta Credit recommends a "quick oil change" type place to have your work done like "Jiffy Lube". They are fast, inexpensive and unlike tire stores or dealerships, they do not generally try to find and charge you for expensive work you do not need. They are all over northeast Pa also.

Take care of your car and it will take care of you. These inexpensive maintenance items can extend the life of your car and help you avoid large repair bills.

Comment, ask a question, let us know what you think.
CarLotta, www.carlottacredit.com