Black Friday Upgrades Your Car Will Be Thankful For

The shopping season has already begun, and Black Friday is right around the corner.

While you’re shopping for friends and family, don’t forget to do some shopping for the thing that got you to the mall in the first place: your car.

Often forgotten during this time of year, your vehicle needs to be remembered and taken care of, if you want it to last. Here are some cheap but smart upgrades you can make this holiday season.

Windshield Wipers
Cost: $12-$18


You can’t drive if you can’t see through the front window, and this is where upgraded windshield wipers come in handy. Instead of going for the cheaper ones, treat yourself (and your car) to a pair of heavy duty wipers like the ones from Rain-X.You can get wiper blades that are made of durable synthetic rubber that resist stripping in extreme temperatures and prevent ice and snow build-up. Also, look for blades that are graphite coated so the wipes are smooth and skip-free.

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Fake It Til You Make It: 3 Reliable Used Cars That Scream Success

Who said you have to break the bank to ride in style?

Depending on your personal taste, a new luxury car could set you back $1,000 or more per month, and that doesn’t include the cost of maintenance, repairs, gasoline and insurance. In some areas, that’s more than the monthly rent on a luxury apartment.

Fortunately, there’s a loophole to help you avoid the exorbitant price tag and still look like a million bucks while cruising down the highway. And that’s a used but reliable, upscale vehicle! What’s even more appealing is most owners tend to take great care of their luxury ride when it’s fresh off the lot, leaving you in good hands once you take possession.

This post is contributed by Allison Martin, personal finance writer and contributor on Yahoo! Finance and BadCredit.org.

Here are 3 used cars that will turn heads and keep your hard earned money in your pocket.

1. 2010 BMW 3 Series

BMW3 series

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traveling-with-pets

Don’t Let Fido Hang Out the Window (and Other Tips for Traveling with Pets)

Among the precious cargo we transport with our vehicles – children, loved ones, and ourselves – our pets are some of the most defenseless.

In the event of a vehicle collision, what will keep your cat, dog, or ring-tailed lemur safe from harm? Understanding how to take proper safety precautions to protect your pooch is important for drivers who regularly bring their animals along for the ride.

Is your pet ready for the ride? 

Some pets experience car sickness or anxiety. To prepare for an upcoming trip, visit your local veterinarian to get advice and medications to help your dog handle the road. Cats are often skeptical of crates, so getting out the crate a few days in advance for them to examine is wise. Decrease their anxiety by giving them time to make sure they approve of their mobile carrier before spending several hours inside of it.

Pack the necessities from waste bags, food, water, and leash to favorite toys, pillows, and soft blankets. Offering your pet pieces of home will help him or her relax and enjoy the ride.

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used-car-accessories

Top Accessories to Bring New Life to Your Used Car

In this day and age, commuting by car is the most used method of daily transportation. But how can you make these countless drives more enjoyable? There are a number of gadgets and accessories available that will help you get the most out of your used car, from enhancing safety to adding personality and more.

Here are the top accessories we’ve come across to improve your driving experience, regardless if it is for your daily commute or a cross country trip.

Improving Car Safety

We figured we’d start with safety before getting into the fun stuff. Here are two of our favorites:

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