Summary

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® discusses the intricacies of car leasing, particularly focusing on what to do at the end of a lease. She shares a real-life example of helping a client navigate lease end options, emphasizing the importance of understanding positive equity and the often-misleading information from leasing companies. The conversation covers the impact of market dynamics on leasing, the importance of transparency when dealing with dealerships, and practical steps for maximizing equity at lease end. The episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge to make informed decisions about their leased vehicles.

Takeaways

• Leasing companies do not disclose positive equity options.
• Market value can exceed the residual value, creating equity.
• Pandemic changes have altered how leases are handled.
• Transparency with dealers can lead to better offers.
• Documenting your car's condition is crucial for negotiations.
• Researching market value helps in understanding equity.
• Bidding wars among dealers can maximize your return.

Resources

CarBuyingCourse.com
TheCarChick.com

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

In this episode of The Straight Shift, The Car Chick® discusses the importance of understanding different drivetrains, particularly in the context of winter driving. She reflects on the recent winter storms in the Carolinas and addresses common misconceptions about all-wheel drive vehicles. The conversation covers the differences between rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive, emphasizing the significance of tires and driving skills in snowy conditions. The episode concludes with advice on making informed decisions about vehicle purchases based on individual driving needs.

Takeaways

• Many people overestimate their need for all-wheel drive.
• Understanding the differences in drivetrains is crucial for safety.
• All-wheel drive does not improve braking on slippery surfaces.
• Tires play a significant role in winter driving performance.
• Four-wheel drive offers more control than all-wheel drive in certain conditions.
• All-wheel drive systems can be expensive to maintain and replace tires.

Resources:

Snow Day Driving Fun video: https://youtu.be/ibOHd-BxS0Q?si=PZb7UgsjUY6ks7vn

Matt’s Off-Road Recovery YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MattsOffRoadRecovery

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.

Summary

Amazon Autos promises to make buying a car as easy as clicking “Buy Now.” But is it actually easier — and more importantly, is it better for car buyers?

In this episode, The Car Chick® breaks down how Amazon Autos really works, why Hyundai was the first automaker to partner with Amazon, how the platform has evolved into used and certified pre-owned vehicles, and where dealership bullshittery can still sneak in. We compare Amazon Autos to TrueCar, Autotrader, and Cars.com, explain who this model works for, and why convenience often comes at the cost of leverage.

Takeaways

• Amazon is testing a new car buying model.
• Hyundai's flexibility makes it a suitable partner for Amazon.
• The buying process is still dealer-centric despite the online platform.
• Fixed pricing reduces negotiation but may not guarantee the best deal.
• Convenience often comes at a cost in the car buying process.

Resources:

https://www.thecarchick.com/perfect-car-package

You can view a full list of resources and episode transcripts here.

Connect with LeeAnn:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Work with LeeAnn:

• Course: The No BS Guide to Buying a Car
• Car Buying Service

Copyright ©2024 Women’s Automotive Solutions Inc., dba The Car Chick. All rights reserved.