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The Cost Differences Between Newer and Older Cars

Posted by BluePrint Engines · April 03, 2018

There’s nothing quite like shopping for a new, “every day” car or finding that perfect vintage model that you can’t wait to get ino the garage. Regardless of original ownership, having something that is new to you is exciting and full of potential.

However, there are hidden costs of owning newer cars that should be kept in mind as opposed to buying vintage.

Interest

According to Kelley Blue Book, the average car price in the U.S. was about $36,113 at the end of 2017. Unless you buy a cash car, you’ll have to factor in interest. The amount you pay on your auto loan will depend on how much money you put down, your credit score, your debt-to-income ratio, and the length of your car loan.

Depreciation

You won’t feel the effects of depreciation immediately after you purchase a car, but according to Carfax, a vehicle loses 10 percent of its value once you drive it off of the lot. All cars will depreciate, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Insurance

Insurance varies from person to person, but your driving record, what kind of car you own, and your age helps your insurance agent to determine your monthly rate. Shop around with different companies to find the best price or even consider combining auto and home insurance to save even more.

Maintenance

Accidents, scrapes, and scratches happen. According to AAA, the average amount Americans budget for car maintenance and tires is about $99 a month. Getting your oil changed on time, rotating and aligning your tires, and using the appropriate kind of fuel can help you save in the long term.

Taxes and other fees

Depending on what city and state you live in, taxes and other fees can easily creep up on you. You can expect to pay title fees when you buy a new car and license fees almost annually. Don’t forget that you will also be charged to replace or renew a driver’s license.

With older cars, parts (in most cases) are typically cheaper and insurance and registration fees usually aren’t as expensive. Plus, having a consistent “hands on” project is something to be proud of. Whether you’re buying something old (or new) remember that BluePrint Engines has everything you need to keep your ride going for years to come.

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Safety Essentials to Keep In Your Car This Winter

Posted by BluePrint Engines · January 19, 2018

A bitter winter is in full swing and the United States has already experienced major storms. In fact, we had to close our office for only the second time in 10 years! The roads were just too bad to risk our employees coming into work. Make sure you and your ride are prepared for the weather change by keeping these winter safety essentials handy.

Portable battery charger

If you need to make a call for help or double check your GPS, a portable battery charger for your cell phone will always be a good idea. If your car battery dies – just keep in mind your in-car chargers won’t work!

Flashlight

Winter months mean shorter days and a lot less sunlight. If you get stuck on the side of the road, it’s important to have a source of continuous light to warn oncoming traffic or flag down help. Don’t just rely on your cellphone flashlight app!

Road flares/small traffic cone

If you have an accident on an icy road, you’ll want to warn others to slow down, not only to keep you safe but to prevent them from losing control on the same stretch of road that you did.

Jumper cables

A must-have in case your battery dies or if a stranger on the road needs a quick jump.

Box cutter/emergency escape tool

In the worst possible scenario, having something that can quickly cut a seat belt or bust open a window could potentially save a life.

Blankets

There is nothing worse than having car trouble, but having it in the winter without a source of heat can be downright awful. Keep extra blankets in your trunk in case you need to stay warm.

First aid kit

It’s always a great idea to keep a first aid kit in your car, but it’s especially important to have in the winter when snow and ice can cause scrapes and cuts in the blink of an eye.

Shovel

A versatile, compact shovel can literally dig you out of any tough situation.

Rock salt or sand

If all you need is something to give you some traction to get you out of a snow bank, rock salt or sand will do. Even kitty litter can help you out in a pinch.

Nonperishable food

Granola bars, beef jerky, and mixed nuts not only are a great source of protein but can you full in case of stand-still traffic due to an accident.

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Classic US Roads You Must Drive in Your Lifetime

Posted by BluePrint Engines · January 17, 2018

As 2018 approaches, make it a New Year’s Resolution to take your ride on a trip down one of these classic U.S. roads.

U.S. Route 66

U.S. Route 66, also known as the Will Rogers Highway, was one of the original highways within the U.S. Highway System. It was established on November 11, 1926, with road signs made the following year.

U.S. Route 66 became one of the most famous roads in the United States and originally ran from Chicago through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending at Santa Monica, California, covering a total of 2,448 miles.

It was recognized in popular culture by both the hit song "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" and the Route 66 television show in the 1960s.

Route 66

Pikes Peak

The Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile toll road that runs from Cascade, Colorado to the summit of Pikes Peak in El Paso County at an altitude of 14,115 feet. It’s partially open year-round depending on the weather as the high altitude makes for difficult snow removal.

The highway was constructed in 1915 and cost $500,000 to build. Since 1916, it has been the home of the annual automobile and motorcycle race called the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Pike's Peak Road

The Pacific Coast Highway

State Route 1, more commonly known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is a major state highway that runs along most of the coast of California.

At a little more than 655.8 miles long, it is the longest state route in California and provides a scenic route to numerous attractions along the coast.

It was built in stages with the first section opening in the Big Sur area in the 1930s. It was not officially designated State Route 1 until 1964.

Pacific Coast Highway

Chuckanut Drive

State Route 11, also known as Chuckanut Drive, is a 21-mile state highway in Washington state. It is known for being one of the most beautiful drives in the Pacific Northwest and was incorporated into the Pacific Highway in 1913 and U.S. Route 99 in 1926.

Chuckanut Drive

Twisted Sisters

This 100-mile loop of road starts in Medina, Texas and is considered to be one of most challenging motorcycle roads in the state.

It follows canyons, steep hills, twisty curves, and drop-offs with little to no guard rails. In one 15-mile section, there are approximately 65 curves and some of the most photogenic roads in the Lone Star State.

Twisted Sisters

Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway

Located in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, Skyline Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world. It contains 75 overlooks, miles of trails, and tons of wildlife. It's also one of the most popular spots in the country for RVs, camping, and motorcycles.

Skyline Drive and Blue Ridge Parkway

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