Kids, you’re young and are most likely not thinking about owning a car! After all, it’s going to be quite a few years until you can take classes to learn how to drive.
But if having a car someday is exciting, start saving your money now! If you want to buy a car when you are a teen or older, it helps to have the money saved up!
Teens - Automobiles
Overview of Automobile Links
The following links are for research related to automobiles:
What do most teens think about?
At South Valley Bank & Trust, we asked teens and found out that driving and owning a car was near the top of the list! Does the thought of having your own vehicle sound exciting? Then, read on…
Saving for Your First Vehicle
Saving the cash for a down payment or the purchase of your first vehicle is something you should think about before you pass your driver’s test and expect to buy a car.
Saving for this very special purchase can begin at any age with South Valley Bank & Trust’s Savings Account or the Kid’s Club Money Market Account which will likely pay a better rate of interest. Call your branch today to set up your account and start saving for your own set of wheels!
Of course, it will take some self control to make regular deposits to your designated savings account and discipline to not use the money for other reasons.
Purchasing a Used Vehicle Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle; will you be able to afford the gas? Also, look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes.
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle.
Determine the value of the vehicle.
Contact the seller.
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle.
Take a trusted adult with you to conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle.
Test drive the vehicle.
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation.
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating; know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where it has been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
So you saved up your money and have chosen a vehicle. You now realize that you will also need to borrow additional money for the remainder of the purchase price. The following steps are recommended to help ease the car buying experience:
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance can cost you large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws. For Oregon insurance requirements, visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website http://www.Oregon.gov. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the lender immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book’s website http://www.KBB.com recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading in a vehicle usually is easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online. Purchasing a Used Vehicle Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle; will you be able to afford the gas? Also, look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes.
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle.
Determine the value of the vehicle.
Contact the seller.
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle.
Take a trusted adult with you to conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle.
Test drive the vehicle.
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation.
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating; know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where its been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
So you saved up your money and have chosen a vehicle. You now realize that you will also need to borrow additional money for the remainder of the purchase price. The following steps may help ease the car buying experience:
If required, determine who will co-sign with you on the loan (someone with a good credit history)
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
If you are 18 years or older, you can use your Consumer Automobile Coupon for a $50 discount on auto loan fees. Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options.
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance can cost you large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws. For Oregon insurance requirements, visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website: http://www.Oregon.gov. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the bank immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book’s website http://www.KBB.com recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading-in a vehicle is usually easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following link:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online. Purchasing a Used Vehicle Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle – will you be able to afford the gas? Also look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle
Determine the value of the vehicle
Contact the seller
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle
Conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle
Test drive the vehicle
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating – know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where it has been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
South Valley Bank & Trust makes car and other consumer loans. The following steps may help ease the car buying and loan application process.
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options. As a benefit of having any South Valley Bank & Trust Checking Account, you will be able use the $50 fee discount coupon! Let the financing process begin! Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance is punishable by large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws, for Oregon insurance requirements visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the lender immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
It goes without saying... be safe; don’t drink and drive! Proper Child Safety Seat Installation
While shuttling your kids back and forth to doctor’s appointments, school, and the rest of their activities, their safety is of the utmost importance and required by law. Properly installing car seats and booster seats could save your child’s life if you were in an accident. Four key safety tips provided by the Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute’s website are as follows:
Restrain your child on every trip, every time
Keep your child in the backseat
Use the best safety restraint for your child’s size
Use the child safety seats and belts correctly (if you are unsure if the seat in installed correctly, have it inspected at a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station)
For more information on how to properly install child safety seats and to locate a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station, please visit the following websites:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book’s website http://www.KBB.com recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with you buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading-in a vehicle is usually easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following link:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online.
Purchasing a Used Vehicle
Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where it has been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
South Valley Bank & Trust makes car and other consumer loans. The following steps may help ease the car buying and loan application process:
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
As a benefit of having any South Valley Bank & Trust checking account, you will be able use the $50 Consumer Automobile Loan Coupon! Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options.
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance is punishable by large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws, for Oregon insurance requirements visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the bank immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
It goes without saying...be safe; don’t drink and drive!
Proper Child Safety Seat Installation
While shuttling your kids back and forth to doctor’s appointments, school, and the rest of their activities, their safety is of the utmost importance and required by law. Properly installing car seats and booster seats could save your child’s life if you were in an accident. Four key safety tips provided by the Joseph Stokes Jr. Research Institute’s website are as follows:
Restrain your child on every trip, every time
Keep your child in the backseat
Use the best safety restraint for your child’s size
Use the child safety seats and belts correctly (if you are unsure if the seat in installed correctly, have it inspected at a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station)
For more information on how to properly install child safety seats and to locate a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station, please visit the following websites:
Considering a Luxury Vehicle
The kids have graduated from high school and are on their way to college. Perhaps a smaller vehicle is in order. Or, perhaps, you’ve worked hard and you want to treat yourself to a high-end luxury vehicle. Now may be the time to purchase that dream vehicle. South Valley Bank & Trust can provide financing for your new car. Simply talk to one of our branch managers or personal bankers. They can explain the options available to you.
The latest luxury vehicles on the market:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading-in a vehicle is usually easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following link:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online. Purchasing a Used Vehicle Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle:
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle – will you be able to afford the gas? Also look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle
Determine the value of the vehicle
Contact the seller
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle
Conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle
Test drive the vehicle
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating – know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where it has been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle
South Valley Bank & Trust makes car and other consumer loans. The following steps may help ease the car buying and loan application process:
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
As an added benefit of having any South Valley Bank & Trust checking account, you qualify for the $50 Consumer Automobile Loan Coupon. Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options. Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance is punishable by large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws, for Oregon insurance requirements, visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the lender immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from the vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following websites may help you find the cheapest gas in your area, as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
Considering a Luxury Vehicle
Retirement is here or approaching quickly and you’ve worked hard to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Perhaps, it’s time to start thinking about a luxurious ride to get you around town or on your next adventure. South Valley Bank & Trust’s staff is here to advise you on the benefits of financing or paying cash for your new dream car. Click on the links below to browse the latest models high-end has to offer:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelly Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option is to use your vehicle as a trade-in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading-in a vehicle is usually easier than selling it privately, you may get less for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership, make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on the value of your vehicle, please visit the following link:
Purchasing a New Vehicle
Purchasing a new vehicle is very different than purchasing a used vehicle. The biggest difference is that you will be working with a dealership rather than a private party. Kelley Blue Book recommends taking the following precautions when purchasing a new vehicle:
Consumer Reports www.consumerreports.org often provides impartial ratings on the new vehicles. You can purchase the physical magazines at any magazine stand or bookstore or sign up online. Purchasing a Used Vehicle
Kelley Blue Book’s website recommends the following steps when purchasing a used vehicle. These steps and more information can be found in detail on http://www.KBB.com.
Decide on the right vehicle for you. Be sure to determine the fuel efficiency of the vehicle – will you be able to afford the gas? Also look at certain features that you will need in the vehicle such as four wheel drive or anti-lock brakes
Consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle
Determine the value of the vehicle
Contact the seller
Obtain both a history and safety rating on the vehicle
Conduct a thorough walk around inspection of the vehicle
Test drive the vehicle
Take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough evaluation
Negotiate with the seller for the best price. Always do your research before negotiating – know what the vehicle is worth before trying to negotiate!
The following are additional websites with more information on buying a used vehicle:
By using VIN (vehicle identification number) reports, you can get a history and accident record on any vehicle. It is important to learn about the history of the vehicle you're interested in buying and these reports can give you information about where it has been owned, how many owners it has had, and any damage done to it.
Financing Your Vehicle South Valley Bank & Trust makes car and other consumer loans. The following steps may help ease the car buying and loan application process:
Decide the term of loan you want (1 year, 2 years, etc.)
Don’t forget extra expenses (gas, maintenance, insurance)
As an added benefit of having any South Valley Bank & Trust checking account, you qualify for the $50 Consumer Automobile Loan Coupon. Contact your South Valley Bank & Trust branch to inquire about our auto loan options.
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance is punishable by large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority.
Each state has its own set of insurance laws, for Oregon insurance requirements visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
If you have a loan on your vehicle, be sure to notify the bank immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following are websites with insurance information as well as a few auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Vehicle Maintenance
A vehicle is a considerable commitment. It requires scheduled maintenance to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. The following are a few maintenance requirements:
Check tire pressure and keep tires properly inflated
Change motor oil every 3000 miles
Monitor brake fluid
Monitor transmission fluid
Check and replace air filters
Replace windshield wipers
For an extensive list of required vehicle maintenance and complete how-to guides, please visit the following website:
Public Transportation
Owning and maintaining a vehicle can be challenging and may not be as rewarding as the trouble of its upkeep. Luckily, there are alternatives to owning your own vehicle. If you’re thinking about unloading your vehicle, you may consider the following options for your transportation needs:
Taxi Services
Bus Services
Medical Shuttle Services
The following websites may help you to find transportation resources in your area:
Considering a Luxury Vehicle
You have been enjoying retirement for several years and now may be the time to consider a luxury vehicle to travel in. South Valley Bank & Trust’s staff is here to advise you on the benefits of financing or paying cash for your new dream car. Click on the links below to browse a few of the luxury vehicles available to you:
Selling a Vehicle
When selling your vehicle to a private party, there are guidelines that should be followed to ensure a smooth sale. Kelley Blue Book’s website http://www.KBB.com recommends the following steps when selling your vehicle:
Communicate with potential buyers
Car preparation (clean inside & outside of vehicle)
Negotiate like a smart salesperson
Know what not to say
Commit to a meeting time and place
Conduct a safe and well-planned test drive
Get to know your potential buyer
Omit possible objections
Find out how the buyer is planning to pay
Bargain with your buyer, but end with a “win-win”
Another option to selling your vehicle privately is to trade it in at the dealership where you plan to purchase your next vehicle. While trading-in a vehicle is often easier than selling it privately, but you are more likely to receive less money for the vehicle from a dealership. Before you go to a dealership make sure to check your vehicle’s trade-in value so that you can negotiate the best price for your vehicle. For more information on selling your vehicle, please visit the following link:
Vehicle Insurance
When purchasing a vehicle, it is critical to factor in the cost of auto insurance. Since insurance is required and lack of insurance is punishable by large fines and a one year jail sentence, finding and maintaining insurance should be a priority. Each state has its own set of insurance laws, for Oregon insurance requirements visit the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. Insurance.com recommends the following eight items to think about when searching for auto insurance:
Determine appropriate coverage
Shop around
Look for insurance discounts
Consider taking a higher deductible
Look into stacking coverage if you file a claim
Check with your insurance company before you buy a vehicle
Notify your auto insurance company immediately if you change insurance companies
Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget
The following websites provide insurance information from a few well-known auto insurance companies:
Saving at the Gas Pump
It is always important to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. The following tips may help increase your gas mileage:
Avoid speeding, rapid acceleration and rapid braking
Remove excess weight from vehicle
Avoid excess idling
Use cruise control when possible
Keep engine tuned
Check and replace air filters regularly
Keep tires inflated to recommended weight
Use recommended grade of motor oil and have regular oil changes
Be aware of competing gas prices in town and use the stations with the lowest per gallon price whenever possible. The following are websites that may help you find the cheapest gas in your area as well as additional tips on improving gas mileage:
Public Transportation
Owning and maintaining a vehicle can be challenging and may not be as rewarding as the trouble of its upkeep. Luckily, there are alternatives to owning your own vehicle. If you’re thinking about unloading your vehicle, you may consider the following options for your transportation needs:
Taxi Services
Bus Services
Medical Shuttle Services
The following websites may help you to find transportation resources in your area:
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