Tuesday, December 17, 2013

3 hazardous fluids that leak from automobiles

Ignoring certain hazardous signs on your car can be dangerous and even deadly, so if you notice one of these leaks from your automobile, get it checked right away:

Oil Leak- Allowing the oil from your car to leak could not only damage your car, but under certain conditions, it could cause the oil to ignite and cause a fire. It is rare, but it still happens and is very hazardous. Not only can an oil leak cause a fire, it could also cause your engine to die. So, how do you detect if you have an oil leak? Simple! When you are pulling in or out of a driveway or parking spot, check to see if you notice drips on the ground under your car or smell a burning or unusual smell. If you see these signs, definitely get your car checked out for any potential dangers.

Brake Fluid- Brake fluid is also known as hydraulic fluid and it helps move components into your vehicle’s braking system. It is necessary to flush and replace your brake fluid periodically because brake fluid absorbs moisture and if it becomes too saturated with excess moisture then it starts to degrade the system and can eventually cause it to fail. You may have to replace or repair the system if it fails. Some of the warning signs for your brake fluid levels include: unusual noises when you use your brakes, the brake warning lights on your dashboard, any pulling or pedal problems when you slow down, and any bad vibrations you may feel in the brake area. If you notice any of these signs, definitely get your car checked out for any potential repairs.

Gas Leak- One of the most common risks associated with gas tank leaks are fires. Gas fuel that leaks from your car poses a huge threat for both the car and other cars on the road. If the car is damaged in a crash, then the danger of a fire increases. Not only could your gas tank explode from direct contact with another vehicle, you could also contaminate the local water supply with the fuel from your leaking gas tank. A few ways to tell if you are leaking gas would be a gas smell while driving, your car is running out of gas at a fast rate, or noticing gas drips on the ground while pulling in or out of a driveway. If you catch any of these signs, be sure to take your car to the nearest mechanic to avoid injury to yourself and others.You don't want to have to junk your car because you failed to get the smell checked out.

About Our Junk Car Removal Company
More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Suite 1261 Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 468-4589
www.morecashforjunkcarsatlanta.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

3 Things To Look for When Purchasing Used Parts for Your Car

It can get expensive purchasing brand new parts for your used vehicle. While doing major car repairs, sometimes purchasing brand new parts for an older car isn't worth the trouble. By purchasing used and aftermarket parts for your car, you can save a ton of time and money. Cosmetic items such as bumpers, hoods, steering wheel columns, and wheels are the most commonly used parts from junk cars that will be reliable and keep your car up to par.

At some junk yards you should be prepared to remove the part yourself. Since these junk yards are selling auto parts for low prices, you have to come prepared with your own tools and extra people if needed, to life the heavy used part and get it into your vehicle. How do you make sure that you are choosing quality used parts and ensure that you are getting a good return on your investment? Here are 3 things to look for while shopping for used car parts:


  • Never buy used safety parts- There are a ton of parts that are safe to buy used, but safety parts are not included in this list. You shouldn't purchase air bags, seat belts, parts for your braking system, or electronic sensors that alert you when or if things go wrong with your car. These things may not function properly and in the need of an emergency, you would rather be safe than sorry. 

  • Check for a warranty or a return policy- Some junkyard or salvage places offer up to a 1 year warranty or at least a return policy if the used part you purchased doesn't work or fit on your car. This is especially important in case you purchase a used part that isn't cheap and you can’t benefit from it. It helps if you can exchange it for something different or return it for a refund. Some salvage auto shops and junk car buyers, don’t allow terms or conditions and may tell you when you purchase the used part, that all sales are final.


  • Make sure it meets OEM specifications- Make sure that the used part that you have purchased meets original equipment manufacturer specifications. This is important because this means you would be getting a quality part that most dealers or auto mechanics would use to repair your vehicle. 


Do you have any tips to add? We want to know!

About Our Junk Car Removal Company
More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Suite 1261 Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 468-4589
www.morecashforjunkcarsatlanta.com

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Best Junkyards to Scavenge in the US

While most people see junkyards as a place where all things undesirable are left to rot and rust, the same cannot be said for a lot of people. Many car enthusiasts and spare parts seekers view junkyards as sacred and holy ground, a nook that offers a lot of possibilities for good and valuable finds.

In the United States, there are hundreds of junkyards strewn across the lands, serving as the graveyard for tons of automobiles that are way past their prime. But some junkyards do hold a number of automotive treasures that range from classic car frames to turbochargers to intact engines, things that will make any car aficionado salivate.

The following junkyards have been deemed as the best yards to scavenge for car parts. You might want to try these places out and see what these junkyards may have in store for you.
  1. Corvair Ranch. This has been the go to place for people who are looking for collectible items and rare cars. Located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the Corvair Ranch holds more than 600 cars.
  2. Arizona Desert. With no homeowner associations to hound you, you can easily take your time as you browse through the rows and stacks of abandoned cars and thoroughly dissect them for parts and scrap metal. The junkyard is nestled between Kingman, AZ and the mighty Hoover Dam.
  3. Desert Valley Auto Parts. Still located in Arizona, this holy land of abandoned cars and scrap metal parts attracts hordes of car collectors and restorers in search for their next masterpiece.
Other junkyards in other countries worth checking out:
  1. Historische Autofriedhof, Switzerland This junkyard boasts of the largest collection of scrap European cars. The keyword here is that most abandoned autos in this spot in the planet are classic models.
  2. Scrapheap Challenge, United Kingdom. Junkyards are great places to look for that supercharger you desperately need. But what can be more fun than actually building a fully functional car out from scrap? In the UK, junkyard addicts pit themselves against each other in a race for junkyard fame.

About Our Junk Car Removal Company
More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Suite 1261 Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 468-4589


Monday, October 28, 2013

Bad Transmission: Replace or Repair?

A transmission is one of the most complicated components of a car’s internal structure. Without a transmission system, your car won’t be able to shift gears and gain speed. Handling the vehicle will be a serious problem and a failing transmission means you are not going anywhere.

A transmission is a complex component composed of gears, hydraulics, and even electronic materials. With every gear you crank and every shift you make, the whole system wears. When you accelerate hard at the time you shift, the more wear the system takes.

In most cases, it fails earlier than the engine. Most car engines can go for 200,000 miles with regular maintenance. That means a transmission can fail as early as 80,000 to 150,000 miles. After that, you will feel and see something is wrong with your shifting. Gears slip when you shift. Clunking and rattling can be heard whenever you change gears. Then you will notice grinding and thumping instead of smooth transitions while shifting.

So what are you going to do if your car’s transmission is not performing well? Should you have it repaired, replaced, or junk the car altogether? Your decision requires a lot to consider. However, determining whether your transmission requires repair or needs to be replaced is still a case by case basis.

Regular car maintenance can help detect any flaws in your transmission. Having your mechanic check your car on a strict schedule will not only get your car in tiptop condition, but it will also help you avoid the huge costs of complicated repairs. Maintenance checks allows your mechanic to see what minor problems are present in your car and provide a quick fix. A new clutch or a replacement gear costs around $1,000 to $1,500.

Getting rid of small transmission problems are not only cost effective in the long run, but it keeps your transmission working efficiently.

The cost of replacing the entire transmission system, on the other hand, is significantly high. Most mechanics often recommend replacement parts when the conditions of a transmission system are almost beyond repair. Replacing extensively damaged components like shafts, pumps, converters, the casing and gears involve taking the whole transmission out from the car and opening the system for inspection and cleaning. On the average, the costs of transmission replacement range from $1,800 to $3,500.

Whether your car’s transmission requires repair or replacement is totally up to you. But here’s a tip: if you have a 15-year old car that is worth $3,000 and its transmission is bad, it doesn't make any sense to repair or replace that transmission. You can junk the car for a few extra bucks and that will help you buy a car that doesn't need much work. If you have a car that is properly maintained and is in tiptop shape, investing in a transmission replacement may not be a bad idea.


About Our Junk Car Removal Company
More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Suite 1261 Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 468-4589

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

What Are the State of Georgia Lemon Laws for Vehicles?

When we buy junk cars at More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta, we hear numerous stories about how consumers feel they have been duped by automotive dealerships who sold them a lemon.

With this in mind, it's important for consumers to know what the lemon vehicle laws are here in the great state of Georgia that are designed to protect them so they don't make a purchase that turns out to be a piece of junk.

What are Lemon Laws?


Lemon Laws are legal provisions applicable in almost all states in the United States which protect consumers from defective items that are legally procured or purchased. Lemon Laws are generally related to automobile purchases but also include other forms of vehicles (boats, trucks, RVs, snowmobiles, etc.) as well as appliances like televisions sets, radios, and computers to just to highlight a few.

However, not all purchased goods, consumer products, and heavy machinery are covered by Lemon Laws. They still vary from state to state and may have different terms and conditions compared to other places in the United States.

History of the Lemon Law


The federal lemon law stems from the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act. Enacted in 1975, this act aims to protect consumers from defective products and governs warranties on consumer items.
Senator Warren G. Magnuson of Washington and U.S. Representative John E. Moss of California were the authors of the act. Senator Frank Moss of Utah was credited as a co-sponsor of Senator Magnusson.

The act was initiated to protect consumers from merchants who employ deceptive warranty practices as well as disclaimers. The act was initially designed to require merchants to provide consumers with warranties on products and that they are explained and easily understood.

Lemon Law in Georgia


While the statutes of the Lemon Law include almost any consumer products, from electronic devices to heavy machinery, Lemon Law in Georgia is highly limited. In terms of automobiles, only new and leased vehicles are covered by this legal provision. If the car has changed ownership, it is no longer qualified to apply for protection under the Lemon Law.

The following vehicles are not eligible for Lemon Law protection in the state of Georgia:
  • Purchased USED vehicle (beware when buying used, it could be a junk car!)
  • Motorcycles;
  • Trucks that weigh more than 10,000 pounds;
  • ATVs or All-Terrain Vehicles;
  • Boats, jet skis, and snow mobiles;
  • Any vehicle not listed or designated as a motor vehicle.
Those who have vehicles that qualify for Lemon Law protection are required to pay a $3 Warranty Rights Act fee. This fee is used to fund Georgia’s state program that provides arbitration services between manufacturer and consumer.

Consumers who want to avail of the Lemon Law in the State of Georgia are instructed to file their complaints and address their concerns at the Governor’s Office of Consumer Affairs administers the Warranty Rights Act.

About Our Junk Car Removal CompanyMore Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309
Phone: (404) 468-4589
www.morecashforjunkcarsatlanta.com

*Disclaimer: This post is not meant to be legal advice. We are not lawyers and nor do we pretend to be. If you need legal advice on Georgia lemon laws, we suggest you contact an actual lemon law lawyer.

Thursday, August 8, 2013

5 Ways Junk Cars Negatively Impact the Environment

A major topic of discussion is the impact that the automobiles we drive has on our environment. The topic of global warming is a contentious one, but the impact that the emissions from our vehicles has on our atmosphere is undeniable.

While fully functional automobiles that are on the road, another type of vehicle – the idle junk car – is still a threat that has a negative impact on our environment.

Even if they sit idly in the driveway or in a junkyard, junk cars still pollute the environment and pose a hazard to both people and their immediate surroundings. Below you can read just some of the ways that older model and junk cars negatively impact our environment.

  1. Cars, whether junk or brand new, produce Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which deplete the ozone layer. There are countless older model cars on their last leg that owners still use as their immediate means of transportation. So many people hold on to their vehicles until they conk out and die. What those people might not be aware of is that the engines in these older model junk cars produce a high volume of carbon monoxide and other greenhouse gases that are detrimental to the environment.
  2. For those who believe in climate change and the impact that vehicles have on our planet, junk cars may also have an impact on our weather. Many countries are experiencing stronger storms and severe flooding while other parts of the world are facing extreme heat and drought. Extensive dry spells can cause water supplies to dry up and lack of water can lead to famine, hunger, and low power production from hydroelectric power plants. If you’re a believer in climate change, junk cars can have an impact far beyond the obvious, so disposing of the junk car in an eco-friendly manner is advisable.
  3. Stationary junk vehicles still cause pollution. Engine fluids, such as brake fluid, engine oil, and coolants can leak from their containers and seep to the ground and even into water systems. These chemicals can pollute the soil and contaminate underground water supply. Ingesting contaminated water can lead to serious medical conditions.
  4. Ground contaminated by car fluids poses serious threats to the plant and animal life, as well as to human life that surrounds the junk car.
  5. Vehicle materials such tire rubber, plastic bumpers, and busted headlights are not easily biodegradable, so they linger. There are great alternative and recycled uses for these types of materials so they don’t end up rotting, leaking, and polluting such as turning them into unique art or furnishings.

Almost everyone agrees, junk cars cause adverse impact to the environment. This fact has spurred so many to call for proper disposal of junk cars in order to keep the environment safe. Proper disposal of cars reduces the amount of pollutants that contaminate the soil, air, and water and reduces the chances of people having health-related concerns that stem from inhalation of toxic gases as well as consuming contaminated water among others.

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Be Careful When You Buy a Car, It Might Be a Lemon!

As metro Atlanta's leading junk car buyer, we've seen our fair share of heart breaking stories about people being taken to the cleaners by less-than-ethical car dealerships and private sellers who were eager to unload a lemon on an unsuspecting buyer.

Since we've been buying junk cars for several years, we're never really that surprised when we hear someone's unfortunate story about how they were swindled into buying a lemon vehicle, but in each and every case we've seen, we've always felt terrible for the person who was stuck having to deal with what to do with the car once they found it wasn't the reliable vehicle they thought they were purchasing.

In the video below, one of our Atlanta junk car customers tells his story about the 1999 Chrysler Sebring that he purchased and then decided to get rid of in just a short two months time.


If you've been the victim of buying a lemon and want to recoup some of your losses, More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta will be happy to pay you cash and tow that lemon away so you never have to see it again!
More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta
Address: 1170 Peachtree Street Suite 1261 Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone: (404) 468-4589

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Have a Junk Car with No Title? Don't Worry!



So often in our business, we get asked by vehicle owners if they can sell junk cars in Atlanta without a title.

There are several stipulations on selling a junk car without a title in Georgia. When we buy junk cars, a title is ALWAYS preferred as proof of ownership and in vehicles that were made in 2001 or after, they're required to make the sale.

If your junk car was manufactured prior to 2001, we can buy it from you with proof of registration and identification from the owner of the vehicle, so long as the junk car is in that person's name. There are some instances where we simply can't buy the junk car from you if you do not have a title because there is a lien on your vehicle's title, or if you've title pawned your vehicle.

If your car is 2001 or newer and you have lost your vehicle's title or the title has been damaged to the point that it is illegible, you can get a replacement title from the state of Georgia fairly easily.

The process for replacing a missing title is not that time consuming, nor is it expensive. There are a few things you must provide the state of Georgia in order for them to reissue replacement title.

First you must fill out and deliver the state's MV-1 Title/Tag Application Form. You must also provide an original Lien or Security Interest Release Form from each lien or interest holder on the original vehicle title that confirms all liens have been satisfied.

Once you've provided the state these forms, you will need to then forfeit your damaged original title if you have it, and then pay an $8 fee for them to reissue you a replacement vehicle title.

At More Cash For Junk Cars Atlanta, we're committed to doing things the right way. We've helped countless junk car owners get replacement titles for their vehicles so they could sell their cars to us for cash.

If you want to sell your junk car without a title, give us a call and we'll help you get a replacement!

Get full details on replacement titles on the state of Georgia website.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Junk Car Companies: What to Look for Before You Sell


Selling a junk car is a big decision for some people. That old beater could have been your first car. It might have been the car you had your first kiss in.

When it comes to our automobiles, there are a lot of memories that we associate with them. We form bonds with them. They sometimes become part of your family. Part of your identity. That's what makes selling junk cars a decision you shouldn't take lightly.

That's why before you choose who to sell your junk car to, it's important to know what to look for in a reputable junk car removal company. Below are some tips you can use to identify which junk car buyer you should work with, and those you'll want to avoid.

  • Look for a junk car buying service that has no hidden charges or fees: In most cases, you will find some companies charge unnecessary title transfer fees, towing fees and they may tack on other ridiculous fees from the initial cash offer. Don't get fooled by these scam artists. The best thing you can do is choose a reputable junk car company that doesn't slip in these ridiculous fees to reduce the amount of cash you'll receive for your junk car. Make sure you ask questions about any fees associated with the transfer prior to arranging a time for the buyer to pick your car up.
  • Find a junk car buyer with reliable and on-time towers: Unfortunately, certain junk car towing companies are not reliable with their scheduling and pickup times. A lack of clear communication between the towing drivers and the junk car company can lead to many headaches and inconveniences that you'll definitely want to avoid.
  • Choose a company that focuses on customer service: When selling junk cars, you never know what kind of problems may arise with liens or holds on your vehicle's title that could prohibit the junk car buyer from transferring your title. If something like this happens, you'll want to be sure that you're working with an experienced junk car company that's focused on providing top-notch customer service and is savvy enough to assist with all issues and other questions you might have to help you get the money for your vehicle, while working through any issues that come about.
  • Avoid companies that give you the run-around: Have you placed a call or filled out a contact form to a junk car company wanting a quotation for your junk car but haven't heard back from them. Or, maybe you've heard back but they can't commit to a time to come out to you and tow away your unwanted vehicle. This behavior should throw up a red flag for you, as this company is probably being run by amateurs who aren't that familiar with the industry and what the true value of your junk car might be. Go with someone prompt and knowledgeable and is going to give you the best deal for your junk car.

No matter what your reason for finally parting with your vehicle, make sure you're well informed and are working with a reputable company that is going to pay you the most cash possible for your vehicle.

If you want to work with Atlanta's top cash for junk cars company, give us a call at (404) 468-4589 and we'll hook you up with an honest, top dollar offer for your car right away.