How to measure engine performance
What is the difference between torque and horsepower?
When you’re looking for a new vehicle, it is easy to get confused about what you should be looking for. While commercials for trucks and SUVs all tout impressive performance figures to try to grab your interest, you might not know exactly what the numbers are supposed to mean, which could leave you with a vehicle that doesn’t fit your needs. Before you make any decisions on which vehicle you’re going to buy, take a moment to learn a little bit about horsepower and torque.
While some commercials might have you believe otherwise, horsepower and torque are both equally important to helping your vehicle move. Though the focus is generally on horsepower, the first measurement that is determined is the torque of the vehicle. When used in an automotive context, torque generally refers to the potential energy that can be expended, which translates to the amount of work that can be done. So, if you’re looking for a vehicle with towing potential, the vehicle you end up choosing will likely have a high torque rating.
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Why is horsepower so important in a vehicle?
In order to determine horsepower, the torque of the engine is measured against a dynamometer, which places a load on an engine and then measures the power produced against the load. This determines the torque, which is multiplied by the rotations per minute and divided by 5,252 to find the horsepower rating. The horsepower of a vehicle is often what is used to see how fast a vehicle is, which is why horsepower is mentioned not only in commercials for trucks but also in sports car advertisements.
Even if you aren’t looking for a vehicle that is going to break the sound barrier or tow a loaded-down trailer, horsepower and torque can tell you if the model you’re considering will be able to provide the speed that you need, even if you’re just driving on the highway. Whether you’re looking for a high-powered performance machine or a daily grocery getter, you’ll be able to find a variety of used vehicles with different performance options when you visit OkCarz.
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What is a credit score?
Understanding credit and credit scores
Trying to find out what your credit score is can be confusing. Even if you know the number, you may not know what it stands for. Credit scores are important if you’re looking to make a big purchase, like a vehicle or a house, and you need financing help from a third party. While you may have heard that checking your credit score will lower it, that myth isn’t exactly true, and knowing your credit number can help you make decisions about your finances.
Before you can figure out if you have a good credit score or not, it is useful to know exactly what a credit score is. Your credit score is an aggregate of all of your credit accounts, which can include credit cards and loans. The accounts are presented in the form of a credit report that shows how you manage your funds, and that is what is taken into consideration when your credit score is created. From the credit report, your credit score is made by taking a lot of different criteria into account.
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How is your credit score determined?
To determine your credit score, the credit reporting agency looks at a number of categories, like your credit utilization, the amount of time you’ve had credit, your payment history, and other items that can affect your score. As not every agency looks at the same criteria, your credit score will likely vary from one company to another, which can impact you getting or not getting a loan.
If you find yourself stuck without a vehicle and with poor credit, or if you don’t have a credit score, OkCarz can help you qualify for pre-approval, and show you what your credit score is. Even if you don’t think that you can get a car loan, OkCarz has been able to help drivers re-establish their credit when they apply for financing through OkCarz.
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What to look for when buying a used car
Should you inspect a used vehicle?
Even when you’re buying a used vehicle, you are taking a huge financial risk. You’re going to be spending quite a bit of money on a piece of equipment that you’ll probably use almost every day. Before you decide what used vehicle you’re going to purchase, there are some things that you should check to make sure you’re getting the best vehicle for you.
If you are buying your vehicle from a dealership, it is likely that they have already done an inspection to make sure that the vehicle is in its best possible shape before selling it. Even if the vehicle has been inspected, it is still important for you to thoroughly check it out. Check for any cosmetic deformities like rust, scratches, dents, or any defects in the glass, as well as any larger issues, like misaligned panels that may disclose any bodywork that might not have been reported.
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Checking the interior
While the exterior is important and any issues can lead to huge problems, you are going to be spending most of your time on the inside of your vehicle. A used car probably won’t have the same smell that a new car has, but if the interior smells musty or moldy, there might be a leak or some other kind of water damage. You should test that all the systems are in working order and that there aren’t any lights that are lit up on the dashboard. Check the upholstery and seats to ensure that there isn’t any damage and that they are comfortable, especially the seat where you will be sitting the most.
When you’re ready to buy your used vehicle, visit one of the five OkCarz locations in Florida. You can find a wide range of used vehicles, from a reliable Toyota to a luxury Mercedes-Benz at OkCarz along with different financing options. No matter your financial situation, OkCarz can help find the used vehicle that is right for you.
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Where to Trick or Treat in Lakeland, FL
2017 Trick or Treat times near Lakeland, FL
Despite the Christmas decorations that might already be popping up in stores, Halloween is right around the corner. Of course, the most exciting aspect of Halloween for children is Trick or Treat. However, for some parents, Halloween can be the scariest time of the year. If you’d rather spend less time traipsing through strange neighborhoods carrying bags of candy, here are some fun Halloween events that provide both tricks and treats.
Safe Haven Halloween
100-578 Berkley Rd
Polk City, FL
October 26, 2017
5pm-8:30 pm
Instead of spending hours collecting candy, visit the Safe Haven Halloween in Polk City, FL, to enjoy a fun event with Halloween activities.
Mall-o-Ween
451 Eagle Ridge Dr
Lake Wales, FL
October 31, 2017
5 pm-8 pm
Elevate your Halloween to include games, music, prizes, and a costume contest at Eagle Ridge Mall in Lake Wales, FL, during Mall-o-Ween.
Halloween Flashlight Egg Hunt
1725 Martin Luther King Jr Ave
Lakeland, FL
October 31, 2017
7:30 pm-9 pm
Make Halloween even more interactive when you take your children (and a flashlight!) to the Halloween Flashlight Egg Hunt in Lakeland, FL.
Trunk or Treat Fall Festival
4416 E County Road 540A
Lakeland, FL
October 31, 2017
6 pm-8 pm
Collect candy in a safe environment and enjoy games, food and so much more at the Trunk or Treat Fall Festival in Lakeland, FL
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Don’t fall for financial tricks this Halloween
If you are in need of a vehicle so you can participate in your local trunk or treat, don’t fall prey to the financial tricks, and visit OkCarz to learn more about how you can qualify for vehicle financing.
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How to make a budget
Creating a budget before buying a car
Purchasing a car is one of the biggest financial decisions that many people face. There are some who may go back and forth on whether they should buy a new or used vehicle, but for many buying a used vehicle is what makes the most financial sense. When you’re trying to decide between buying a new or used vehicle, it is important to know what you are able to spend on it, and the best way to do that is by making a budget.
Budgeting can be useful in many aspects of your life, not just when you’re trying to buy a car. However, if you’ve been putting off making a budget, taking time to assess your finances before making a big purchase, like a vehicle, can be an excellent step to keeping you out of financial distress.
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What should be included in a budget?
When you’re putting together a budget, you should determine what reoccurring expenses you have, like loan payments, utility bills, and rent or mortgage payments. Other aspects to consider are grocery purchases and if you want to put some money aside for fun or other incidentals.
From there, you can decide how much of your income you would be comfortable spending on a car every month. You’ll also need to consider other expenses that the vehicle you are purchasing will have, like registration fees, paying for parking, car insurance, gasoline, and still having enough for any maintenance costs that may arise.
It is important to know how much you can pay every month for a vehicle before starting your search. Once you’ve determined what your budget is, visit one of the five OkCarz locations in Florida to find information on how to finance a vehicle. OkCarz makes it easy to apply for financing online, and find the used vehicle that is the right fit for you.
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Buying a car using pre-approved vehicle financing
Buying a car with bad or no credit can be stressful. When you’re buying a car, you are making a huge purchase that is a necessity for most people. Making the wrong choice when you first start looking for a car can be detrimental to your credit and can cause even more problems down the line. Vehicle financing is a great way to be able to afford a car, and it can even help your credit score.
Once you start considering auto financing, car buying can be less stressful, but more confusing. You’ve likely heard a lot of different information about how you should buy a car, and many people will probably try to steer you away from applying for a loan. However, since cars can cost an exorbitant amount, a loan may be the best way for you to get a vehicle.
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Getting pre-approved for vehicle financing is a smart move when you’re looking to purchase a vehicle. Pre-approval lets you know how much you can expect to pay for your car, and can help you set a budget so you know what to expect when you actually go to the dealership. You’ll also already know your interest rates and monthly payment so the process of buying your vehicle will be less stressful.
If you’re looking to finance your vehicle at OkCarz, it is easy to apply for pre-approval. You can quickly and securely apply online by filling out the form. Applying for pre-approval on the OkCarz website won’t affect your credit score, and will provide you with information regarding your score that you may not have had.
Find the used vehicle that will best fit you and your needs when you visit OkCarz at any of their five convenient locations in Florida. After you apply for pre-approval, take a look at the used vehicles that the dealership has in stock. All the vehicles at OkCarz are inspected and come with a free six-month, 6,000-mile powertrain warranty.
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Impressive number of features and options available in affordable used Chevy Trax crossover SUV models
Chevy Trax Features and Options
As you begin your search for a new compact crossover SUV, you’ll find that there are many vehicles to choose from in the highly popular automotive segment. If you are looking for one that can give you the versatility and capability you need while also offering you the technology features and comfort options you desire, the Chevy Trax is a perfect choice. Keep reading to learn more about the many standard features and available options you can get in an affordable used Chevy Trax compact crossover SUV.
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Chevy Trax Technology Features and Options
On the inside of the versatile Chevy Trax crossover SUV, you’ll find an impressive number of standard and available technology features to choose from. The lengthy list of high-tech features offered in the many trim levels of the Chevy Trax lineup include auto industry favorites like Apple CarPlay™, Android Auto™, Bluetooth®, Chevy’s MyLink™ infotainment system, a 7-inch touchscreen display, satellite radio, two USB ports, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot, OnStar® communications, a rearview camera, a Bose® premium audio system with six speakers, and much more. rn
Chevy Trax Comfort Features and Options
When it comes to affordable interior comfort in a used compact crossover SUV, the Chevy Trax is at the top of the list of best choices. The Chevy Trax offers an impressive number of comfort features and options to pick from that include driver and passenger favorites like simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, remote engine start, cruise control, air-conditioning, keyless entry, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and many others that will help every occupant stay comfortable while on the road.
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Used Nissan Altima sedan offers money-saving fuel economy rating on the highway and in the city
Used Nissan Altima Fuel Economy Rating
The auto industry is filled with midsize sedans that promise to deliver all the qualities you want and need in a used car. While not every vehicle can give you the miles per gallon you’re looking for to save money on gasoline, there is one that can. A used Nissan Altima is one of the hottest-selling used cars in America for many reasons, including its spirited performance on the road and money-saving fuel economy rating. The following information will help you get a better understanding of just how efficient a used Nissan Altima really is by showing you its fuel economy rating for both available engine options.
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Nissan Altima MPG Rating
The Nissan Altima is a four-door midsize sedan that offers incredible fuel efficiency on both the highway and in the city. In recent used models, the Nissan Altima offers you a choice between two outstanding engine options that deliver exciting performance on the road and money-saving fuel efficiency. The standard engine found underneath the hood of a used late model Nissan Altima is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. A more powerful 3.5-liter V6 that delivers a massive 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque is also available if you are looking for even more power and increased performance.
Used 2017 Nissan Altima 2.5 Fuel Economy Rating = 27 City/39 Highway and 31 mpg combined
Used 2017 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR Fuel Economy Rating = 26 City/37 Highway and 30 mpg combined
Used 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5 V6 Fuel Economy Rating = 22 City/32 Highway and 26 mpg combined
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Chevy Suburban Passenger and Cargo Space
The auto industry has fully embraced the SUV as one of its most popular vehicle segments and so have the drivers who are purchasing them as their next vehicle. With their ability to offer the versatility and capability a driver needs every day, it’s easy to understand why they are such a popular choice with so many shoppers. At the top of the list of best SUVs that can offer you the largest interior that can give you the most passenger and cargo space is the Chevy Suburban. The Chevy Suburban is a large full-size SUV that offers an incredibly large interior that provides impressive amounts of passenger and cargo space to its occupants.
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How Many Passengers Can the Chevy Suburban Carry?
If you’re shopping for a new family SUV that can provide you with the most interior passenger seats, the Chevy Suburban is an excellent choice as it offers three rows of seating for up to nine passengers when opting for the bench seats. The three rows of versatile seating available in the Chevy Suburban gives you many different seating options to choose from so you can get just what you need when traveling in a Chevy Suburban SUV. The Chevy Suburban also offers a long list of comfort features and options to choose from, so you’ll also be able to get all the amenities you need when buying this Chevy SUV. rn
How Much Cargo Space Does the Chevy Suburban Have?
While interior passenger space is important to many drivers who are searching for a new family SUV, a vehicle’s cargo space is also at the top of the list of qualities. The Chevy Suburban offers more than 120 cu-ft of cargo space when the second- and third-row seats are folded down, which is an incredible amount of space when compared to other SUVs. If you’re looking for a new SUV that can offer you the interior cargo space you need, the Chevy Suburban is an excellent choice. rn
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Ford Focus Fuel Economy Rating
When it comes to finding a fuel-efficient compact car, you’ll quickly learn that there are many to choose from in the highly popular automotive segment. While there may be a lot of options, there is one that really stands out for delivering a wide variety of fuel economy ratings. The Ford Focus is available with many different engine options that offer a wide variety of fuel economy ratings so you can get the power, performance and fuel efficiency you desire. Keep reading to learn more about the fuel economy ratings of the many engine options available in the Ford Focus.
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Ford Focus Engine Options and MPG Ratings
2.0-liter 4-Cylinder – This is the standard engine found in most used 2017 Ford Focus models. It offers 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque and uses your choice of either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission to send power to the front wheels. rn
Fuel Economy Rating w/Manual = 24 City/34 Hwy/28 Combined
Fuel Economy Rating w/Automatic = 26 City/36 Hwy/29 Combined
1.0-liter Turbocharged EcoBoost® 3-Cylinder – This engine is also available in more recent used Ford Focus models and offers an excellent fuel economy rating. This fuel-efficient engine puts out 123 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque and offers a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy Rating w/Manual = 30 City/42 Hwy/35 Combined
Fuel Economy Rating w/Automatic = 28 City/40 Hwy/32 Combined
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