FAQ

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For your assistance . . . Check the answers to some frequently asked questions.
This page contains answers to common questions handled by our support staff, along with some information that we have found useful.
Note: These answers will provided a basic application to the question and may need to be refined to your particular circumstance and/or criteria.

"Should the rust on my car be repaired or not?"

Rust is an ultimate enemy to a vehicle's body. It would be fair to say that most auto body shops don't want to get involved with repairing a rust problem, without replacing the panel that is rusted. There are a couple of fixes that are generally attempted, but not guaranteed. One repair is cutting out the rusted metal and welding a new piece on metal in its place. The problem with this repair is that when you apply extreme heat to the adjoining metals, the surrounding metal can become thin, and moisture often seeps into the metal that is being repaired. Therefore, the area that has been repaired is prone to rust prematurely.

Another fix is body filler. This repair is generally deemed unacceptable at any repair facility. Body filler traps moisture that will eventually rust the surrounding metal. Any additional questions about rust, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.

"Do I need snow tires or will all season tires get the job done?"

Living here in the northeast, we often experience severe weather. If you intend to drive in severe winter conditions, please install four (4) snow tires. All season tires will provide adequate performance, but may not be suitable for severe wintry conditions. Snow tires are specifically designed with one thing in mind, SNOW. As mentioned in our tire pressure tips, the last common link between you and the road is your tires, so we would advise you to choose the appropriate tires for the driving conditions that surround you. Any additional questions that you may have about which tires to install on your vehicle, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.

"Do I really need to use original equipment parts or will aftermarket work?"

CarConsultants usually recommends the use of original equipment parts for replacement for a variety of reasons. Fit and function are usually superior to aftermarket parts, resulting in an overall quality repair. Plus in certain conditions, car manufacturers will void warranties when aftermarket parts are installed. When cost or age of the vehicle factor into a decision, aftermarket parts are an option. However, the trade off might be the overall quality and longevity of the part installed. There is a scary thought that has been heard in repair facilities - "pay me now or pay me later". So when making the decision on original equipment versus aftermarket parts, weigh all your options. If there is any specific application that you would like advice on, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.

"Should I purchase an Extended Service Contract?"

An extended service contract is nothing more than a service insurance policy for your vehicle. We believe they are worth consideration for purchase if the consumer expects to retain their vehicle for an extended period of time. Factory authorized contracts are usually very comprehensive and some other additional services such as roadside assistance. Shop wisely and be aware that these contracts do not cover routine maintenance! Plus if routine maintenance is not performed and it relates to the repair, some extended warranty contracts will not cover that specific repair. If you have any additional questions about extended service contracts, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.

"Do I really need to have an Insurance Agent?"

CarConsultants believes in the use of Insurance Agents. The role of the Insurance Agent becomes most important after your collision experience. You are the client, and they will make every effort to expedite any situation you find yourself in. It is in the Agent's best interest to keep you satisfied. If you have any questions about Insurance Agents, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.

"Should I buy or lease my new car?"

There are pros and cons to both sides of this question. The main thing to examine closely is what am I trying to accomplish. Leasing is usually easier to obtain financing with less money up front, yet not the way to go if you plan on keeping the vehicle an extended length of time. If you average only 10 to 12 thousand miles a year and like the idea of your car being worry free and under factory warranty, leasing is a good choice. Remember that you want to be able to get the most for your money and what is affordable in your particular circumstances. If you have any questions about weighing what is best for you, please contact CarConsultants via Info Request.