TEEN DRIVERS - PARENTS SAVE MONEY!

December 28th, 2008

Driver Cam  Every parent’s nightmare is the first time their teen takes the car out on their own.  The steps leading up to this feat can ease your anxiety if you take time to consider all the phases of teen student driver education available today. 

To reduce teen driver fatalities over thirty states have initiated GRADUATED LICENSING laws. These laws minimize the hours a teen can be on the road in the first year of driving, who can be n the car and where the new driver is going, ie: school, church, job, home. Only siblings in the car. Curfew hours are typically 10pm - 5am. Visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to learn more about graduated licensing in your state; www.iihs.org

That’s all well and good once the teen driver has his/her license, but there are many steps a parent can take to establish respect for the road and rules of engagement.   Once in effect, the process of maintaining driving privileges puts mom and dad back in the driver’s seat.

I recommend a Teen-Parent driving contract. There are many online, but choose one that gives you and your student driver the ability to fill in the rules and the punishments.

Many auto insurance companies now offer discounts for teen driver coverage if the student driver takes an online test (and passes). Some eager parents are installing GPS tracking or onboard video cameras in an effort to lower the 3k-4k  dollar bill typical of insuring a new driver. The GPS systems provide an email or text message when the teen goes over the preset speed limit or travels outside the pre-defined mileage limit.

The onboard video cameras display the driver and the visual field from the driver’s perspective, very much like a police vehicle. The images are streamed to a secure website where the parent can log-in to see what’s going on, or what happened, in the case of an accident. These devices have proven very effective in reducing teen driver accidents and fatalities in newly licensed drivers.

Another area that should be given serious consideration, is the practical driving instruction.  Who’s going to be respoinsible  for teaching the teen driver the proper rules of the road?  Mom and Dad need to consider their time and patience versus the cost of hiring a professional company.  Average driving instruction services run between $200-$600, however there is more than the “you get what you pay for” to consider. 

Here are my Top  5  Tips to finding the right driving instructor for your teen student driver.

1. Visit the School. Talk to the students, driving instructors and parents. Is the facility clean and up to date? Do they provide written guarantees, complete schedules of number of hours and types of road surface experiences. Make sure they are not cramming too much information into too few classes. How many students are in each class? How much actual driving time does each student clock behind the wheel?

2. Check out the vehicles. The cars should be clean, well maintained inside and out. The cars should not be older than four years of age. Do they all have airbags?

3. Is the school properly licensed and current with all state requirements? Review the local better business bureau for complaints. Google the instructors and school by name.

4.  How often is the instructor available to answer the teen or parent questions?  Is there written homework and testing?

5.  How does your teen driver act when in the car with you. Does the teen student driver demonstrate proper driving ettiquitte? IS he/she confident behind the wheel? Does he/she know the speed limits, signs and signals?

According to my resources in the DMV , the two biggest reasons a student fails his/her driver’s license test is;  Asking the test instructor a question regarding procedure, and demonstrating a lack of awareness of the proper speed limits.

If you would like to learn more about things teen drivers and parents should know before driving or BUYING a car, please check out my slide show here; TEEN DRIVER- PARENTS BEWARE    

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Sarah Lee is My Carlady, a 20yr. auto executive writing about all things automotive. She is a well known speaker on consumer car issues, and teahces teens about car buying/rules of the road during driver eduaction classes.  For a great deal on your next car, hire an expert; www.mycarlady.com
http://www.slideshare.net/Mycarlady” > View Mycarlady's profile on slideshare

 

This article is with the cooperation of Netquote, an online insurance service; http://www.netquote.com/auto-insurance/

2 year FREE maintenance Hyundai Henderson

November 2nd, 2008

Henderson Hyundai dealershipNov. 2, 2008- Henderson, NV   

Henderson Hyundai owner Frank Maione has always believed in loyalty, stating, ”My Henderson Hyundai dealership has the highest record of repeat customer purchases and referrals from our clients, of any Hyundai dealership in the West.”   To earn your business, the dealership has added a new dimension to the 5 year, 60k full warranty and 10yr, 100k mile powertrain warranty, a 2 year service program for every New Hyundai purchased from Henderson Hyundai. The $399.00 value is no charge and service is available until 8pm Monday through Friday and 5pm on Saturday.

Car buyers interested in the new 2009 Hyundai Genesis will find ample selection of the popular “LEXUS-killer” 3.8v6 and 4.7v8, featuring a $399.00 per month lease special several hundred dollars less than the popular Lexus GS350 and BMW 5 series. The dealer inventory includes the hard to find PEARLIZED WHITE, Sapphire Blue, Black, Light Blue, Charchol and Silver.

 new styling crossing over

The newly redesigned 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring Sport Wagon has already caught the eye of many car magazines and auto enthusiasts comparing it to the Infiniti EX35, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester. The waiting list for the wagon, expected in dealer showrooms in mid-December, is growing as the price is expected to start well under $20,000.00, saving car buyers between $5,000 and $10,000 over competing models.

For more information, or to be added to the Henderson Hyundai Newsletter and Arrival ALert email, please send your name and email address to smarks@hendersonhyundai.com Subject line: subscribe me please.

 Sarah Lee writes for several automotive outlets on alla spects of the car business. You can comment here or ask specific questions by emailing her at smarks@hendersonhyundai.com

 

 

 

Get a NEW Minivan for under $500.00 a month

October 22nd, 2008

Las Vegas, NV-  When you need a seven passenger people mover, your choices become limited by budget.  DON’T GIVE UP!  Hyundai’s Entourage mini-van to the rescue.

It’s 5 star NHTSA safety rated, comes with the famous Hyundai (pronounced HUN-DAY) 10 year- 100k factory warranty and now for a brief time, you can get NO INTEREST , that’s right 0% interest for 60 mos.!  That saves you at least $6000.00 !  This offer is exclusive to Hyundai and Henderson Hyundai works with all credit situations. OAC.

The GLS model comes with a 6cyl. engine., removable, folding bucket seats in the second row, power sliding side doors, back-up sensors, driver back-seat mirror, individual and dual passenger climate controls, vented rear windows, stow ‘n go for the split rear bench seat, rear air-conditioning with individual vents for all passengers, 7 cup-holders, folding tray, six storage areas, roof rack and remote entry.  Options include rear entertainment system, navigation, alloy wheels and leather seats.

An exclusive Henderson Hyundai offer: if you buy from Henderson Hyundai, you will receive a BONUS 2yr. FREE service package worth over $300.00 

Frank, owner of Henderson Hyundai recently offered this explanation when asked how he can make and offer like this, ” We are a locally-owned an operated dealership with low overhead and a vested interest in the Las Vegas-Henderson Community. Our repeat business means more people bring their friends and family to buy cars here, lowering our overall advertising budget. We pass that savings along in the form of LOWER prices and additional services like service offers, free WIFI and evening hours for service. SERVICE is our middle name.”

Henderson Hyundai recently opened a brand new service facility to accommodate the huge increase in Hyundai purchases through out the valley, but especially in the Henderson, Boulder City and Bullhead/Laughlin area.

Henderson Hyundai is an active member of the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, Henderson Senior Center sponsor, and offers Costco, Sam’s Club, ESM and Casino Employee discount programs. Contact the VIP Sales Center at 565-9139 for YOUR company affiliate pricing, or click here: smarks@hendersonhyundai.com

To see a video review of the Hyundai Entourage click here: “http://www.youtube.com/v/qvBnYJBYzmg

To see if you qualify for the 0% limited time offer go to: https://ssl4.westserver.net/plywoodmedia.com/H-Hyundai-Finance/credit.htm

Sarah Lee is a 20 yr. automotive industry executive writing on all aspects of the car business.

Korean cars PRICED RIGHT.

October 17th, 2008

2009 Hyu8ndai Elantra Sport Touring Wagon Las Vegas, Nevada-  In a car market that favors value, the Korean auto manufacturers led by Hyundai, are focused on delivering high quality and long lasting vehicles backed by 100k mile warranties and aggressive financial assistance in the form of low interest rates for qualified consumers.  What else could the American consumer want?  The politicians are focused on keeping these cars out of the US, under the canopy of job protection, however, we can all see how successful our Big 3 have been in delvering product the American driver wants to pay for, so lets be realistic about where our money goes.  Over the next year Hyundai expects to deliver the Elantra Sport Tourer (wagon, a high performance, sexy Genesis Coupe and hybrid engines for it’s popular SUV’s and affordable sedans.

Let the market drive the business as consumers consistently vote with their pocketbooks. Check out the 2008 Consumer Reports review: “Consumer Reports 2008 Annual Auto Issue is about to hit the news stands, and this year there are some surprises. Hyundai has two top picks: The Elantra SE ousted last year’s winner, the Honda Civic, as the best small sedan. Their Santa Fe also took top honors in the mid-size SUV category.”

Genesis Coupe coming in 2009

~~~ SLM  Sarah Lee is a 20+ yr. automotive expert writing on everything cars. You may comment here or by email at sarahlee@mycarlady.com

HYUNDAI offers 0% on hot models!

October 5th, 2008

2008 Santa Fe GLS Khaki October 5, Las Vegas, NV

Hyundai responds to consumer needs for low financing options with 0% for 60 months on their popular 2008 Santa Fe, Veracruz and Entourage models.

0% for 60 months is where the consumer really makes out! And Hyundai is also offering 1.9% for 72months.  The 2009 Azera is available for 3.9% for 60 mos., still a great deal on a luxury car.

 

Consumers can still opt for hefty rebates where down payment is lacking. Local credit offers have been hovering around 7.95% for good credit scores over 700. Don’t be surprised if the interest rate goes up when you have no down payment, as more and more banks are requiring car buyers to have a minimum 10% down, even with a 700 score.

 

GMC and Chevrolet are tinkering with a limited few low financing offers for 36 mos., but nothing as across the board on popular models as their competition. Don’t expect Nissan or Honda to follow the Hyundai lead, as neither company is loaded with inventory.

 

Sarah Lee is a 20 yr. auto industry veteran writing on consumer populist automotive issues. You can email her with your comments or questions at carlady@cox.net

NEW 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring Wagon makes a classy entrance this fall.

October 1st, 2008

2009 Elantra touring wagonNEW 2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring Wagon makes a classy entrance this fall.

overseas as the Hyundai i30 wagon, the 125.5 cu.-ft. (3.6 cu.-m) vehicle will offer the most interior volume of any 5-door/wagon/crossover in its class.

Elantra Touring arrives in U.S. later this year.

 

 

Designed to carry lots of people and their favorite things, the Elantra will show a sporty side with  a B&M racing sport shifter, tilt and telescoping steering wheel and 8-way adjustable driver’s seat.interior of 2009 Elantra touring wagon

XM Satellite Radio and USB/iPod auxiliary jacks are standard, with steering wheel controls that access and display iPod into on the radio display.

The 2.0L 4-cyl. Engine will blend fuel efficiency with a 4-speed automatic with manual shift function or 5-speed manual gearbox.  A beefed up suspension will provide the long haul comfort of rolling hills with reduced body roll and back aches.  The 34.2 ft turning diameter bests that of the Volkswagen Rabbit (35.8 ft. [10.9 m]) and Dodge Caliber (37.2 ft. [11.3 m]), according to Hyundai. 

Dealers expect initial production to be limited, however, consumers have already begun placing thier name on waiting lists in the hopes of grabbing one of the first delivered. Expect pricing to start around $17,999.00, delivering more size and standard features than similar size crossovers from the Detroit garage.

SLM

Sarah Lee is an 20 yr. automotive executive writing about cars and car buying.

2008 Accent’s and Elantra’s get scarce.

September 29th, 2008

elantraHenderson, NV

 

GET THEM WHILE YOU CAN!

2008 Accent’s and Elantra’s are flying off the dealers lots as continued demand for the value-priced, fuel effcient models from Hyundai.  Customers are enjoying rebates of up to $2000.00 which will not last as automakers reduce inventory for the fourth quarter.

Consumers are noticing colors and features are limited as these popular 4 cylinder models drive away, many with bank financing that will likely tighten in coming months.

Henderson Hyundai is maintaining a large inventory of these models by buying unsold units from dealers in other parts of the country and increasing purchases of late model pre-owned cars from current Hyundai owners looking to trade-up while the deals are available. 

SLM. 

 

Local Hyundai Dealer contributes to Childhood Cancer Foundation

September 23rd, 2008

frank maioneSeptember 18, 2008 - Las Vegas, NV

 

 

 

 

 

Henderson Hyundai owner Frank Maoine was instrumental in driving the Southern Nevada Hyundai dealer group’s annual donation of $40,000 to “Hyundai Hope on Wheels”,  a program funding the fight against childhood cancer.

A portion of the profit from every Hyundai sold over the past year has gone to a fund set aside for research and treatment of local Nevada children suffering from the debilitating effects of various cancers.

Doctor Bernstien of the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases of Las Vegas remarked on the strides made over the last forty years noting, “The survival rate for our children has risen consistently from twenty to eighty percent”.

The trademark Hope on Wheels Santa Fe, repleat with colorful handprints, travels the local area transporting needed materials and acting as a constant reminder of the ongonig efforts of the Mr. Maione and his Henderson Hyundai sales team.

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www.hendersonhyundai.com 1-888-716-3492

 

Accent owners weigh in with their wallets and opinions.

September 6th, 2008

Hyundai Accent Hatchback a favorite.September 7, 2008 - Henderson, NV   

Hyundai Accents fly off dealer lots!

 

The 2009 Hyundai Accent arrives with lower rebates and more optional equipment.  The fun-friendly, fuel efficient three door hatchback and four door sedan are enjoying great success amid consumers desire to save money and be environmentally aware of their carbon footprint. Over fifty-percent of the car is made using recycled or recyclable materials. Interior fabrics and trim blend sensitivity for urban design with a techno-feel.  Many of the exterior and internal components recognize a desire for lightweight yet sturdy materials that crash and compost well. All in all, everyone has their own reasons for owning a Hyundai. The best place to learn what owners are saying is to visit forums like Edmunds.com, KBB and Yahoo.autos. This is where the owners weigh in and save you from having to decipher car reviewer’s track talk. I prefer the opinion of folks who are spending their own money, and using the car for the “life” support stuff that effects my day. From the “kewl” colors to the “executive” styling, here are a few of the comments posted online by actual Hyundai Accent owners.

 

E. Stanfill and Eugene, both Hyundai Accent owners, mention money-savings on insurance and gas; “I’m saving $400 per month and the car payment w/ insurance are much less than that. It’s money in the bank to buy this car and keep the diesel parked.” Eugene had this to say, “Good first impression, 1st fill up was pleasant surprise, 33.6MPG. Have about 400 miles logged. Tried a 100 mile trip to see how it rides. All seems good, but the radio has a shorter range than my other vehicles. Have to try all the seat adjustments to see which I like better. Good all around vision,” in their Edmunds review.

Coro- a recent 2008 Hyundai Accent GLS 4dr Sedan w/XM buyer compared all the usual suspects before selecting his second Hyundai Accent, “I just bought my new Hyundai Accent last weekend. I replaced a 1999 Accent and this one is light years over the old one! As soon as I sat on the driver’s seat, I fell in love with the car. It’s my first new car and I couldn’t be any happier. My dad owns a Nissan Versa and the Accent has a much more comfortable driver seat…” and… “Overall, I find the Accent to be a great value and an excellent car for a college student like me. I already took it to a 250 mile trip and was awesome!” Favorite Features: Love the stereo with XM, automatic, TPMS and the large screen on the stereo, and of course all the AIRBAGS!!! LOVE THE ARMREST!!! My dad’s Versa is a little more expensive and does not have one. The warranty is great!”

CORO, raises an interesting debacle many first-time buyers, recently licensed drivers and parents face; Do we buy a pre-owned Toyota or Honda with 50,000 miles, broken in by “who-knows-who”? or “Get a BRAND NEW, 10 yr-100K mile Warranty, Hyundai Accent for the SAME PRICE?  While many car consumers will do considerable research and comparisons while test-driving, those who ask actual owners what they think, may glean more useful ownership details.

Why would consumers continue to buy a car that didn’t perform in the Value, Performance, Style, Safety and Utility criteria many of us use to make a large purchase decision?  Beterraba mentioned her 6’4” husband and a 40” television fitting easily in their 2008 Hyundai Accent GS 2dr Hatchback, on their post; “We love this car, and are so happy with the purchase! Favorite Features: MPG!!! easy to use features, fits anywhere, nice radio, 6 standard air bags:

When considering the BUYING pre-owned versus BRAND NEW argument, long-term Brand and Customer Loyalty is often recognized in blogs and forums. Glenn wrote, “I did a ton of searching for the best but cheapest gas saver on the market today. I considered the Fit, Matrix, Aveo, Rio, and several others. By far Hyundai makes the best little gas saver out there. The warranty cannot be beat. This is my 4th Hyundai! I have never been disappointed yet by a Hyundai product or service.”  Favorite Features: Sporty appearance of the 2-door, all the added features that are standard, WARRANTY, just the feel of the car. Efficient and FUN!”

Fun, fuel efficient and proud to be a smart consumer, all factors weighing heavily among the reasons recent Hyundai Accent buyers have flooded dealer lots to grab the best deals in the year-end model close-out season. Don’t wait, all the 2008’s will be gone soon.

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Credit to Edmunds.com for posts and commentary. Written by SLM for HendersonHyundai.com  Comments are welcome. Henderson Hyundai owners are welcome to send pictures to smarks@hendersonhyundai.com  don’t forget our generous referral program. For details contact Sarah Lee. smarks@hendersonhyundai.com

GENESIS gets NHTSA 5 STAR CRASH TEST RATING

August 28th, 2008

                   genesis gets 5 star crash test rating

The NHTSA ranks the Hyundai Genesis with a five star safety crash test rating in FRONT and SIDE-impact crashes, the highest ranking available.  Once again, Hyundai is proving their quality assurance is that of Toyota, Lexus, and many luxury models costing tens of thousands more dollars.

The Genesis is the newest Hyundai vehicle to achieve the highest safety ranking, joining the balance of the Hyundai product line; the Entourage van, Sonata, Elantra sedans, Veracruz, Tucson and Santa Fe suv’s.  Let those discounting the Korean automaker’s rise from humble beginnings recognize the careful evolution of a car company similar to that of the Japan3 thirty years ago, now building vehicles in the American heartland. 

Welcome a new era of recognition for value based transportation wrapped in style and standing ground in common sense and engineering achievements. Boasting eight airbags and an electronic active head restraint system envied by many Mercedes Benz and BMW owners, the Genesis has sold over 1500 units in it’s first six weeks on the market. Dealers report clients eager to place deposits for the upcoming V8 - 375hp, 4.6liter, 32-valve engine due out by year end.  

To see a video review test drive of the Genesis click here: YOU TUBE