car buying guide

Car Buying Guide for Ways to Work Borrowers

All the information you need now that you’re ready to purchase a reliable

vehicle!

Provided by Ways to Workat Jewish Family Service

One Source for a Lifetime of Help - www.jfssd.org

Understanding Your Loan

You are responsible for repaying the total amount dispersed, plus any interest accrued.The vehicle title will list Ways to Work/Jewish Family Service as the lienholder and/or loss payee until the full amount is repaid. This means that JFS retains ownership until the car is paid off.


Consumer Reports

Please review the Consumer Reports car buying information included in your Financial Education packet; if you need a copy, please contact Ellen at [email protected] Ways to Work at JFS will not approve any vehicle listed as a “lemon” or any negatively reviewed used vehicle list, according to Consumer Reports.Do not waste time or money looking at vehicles that are on these “Do Not Buy” lists.

mailto:[email protected]


Car Buying 101

If this is your first time buying a car or you’ve had a previous bad experience, it may seem intimidating and complicated. We are here to help you along the process and are providing this guide will walk you through what you need to know.


Car Buying 101

There are many things to consider that affect a car’s value. Know these facts about the car you are interested in.– Year, Make, Model– Current mileage– Number of previous owners– Any accidents that the vehicle was in


Car Buying 101

Understand that not all car sales people are honest. Please be aware of this when walking onto a car lot and do not let yourself get sold on a vehicle you do not want.Always double-check the Kelley Blue Book value of the vehicle at http://www.kbb.com/car-values/ to make sure you are paying a fair price.

http://www.kbb.com/car-values/

http://www.kbb.com/car-values/


Car Buying 101

Know the amount that you have been approved to borrow, but don’t share this information with the dealer as they may mark-up cars to that amount.Additionally, be aware that you do not have to spend the full amount and a more expensive car may not necessarily be a better car.


Steps to Selecting A Car

Step 1: Preferred DealersWe strongly suggest that you choose a

vehicle through one of our preferred dealers. – They are aware of our program and the

procedures specific to Ways to Work.– Their inventory matches the relative price

range and quality of vehicles for our borrowers.

– We have feedback from previous borrowers that these dealers provide great customer service.

– Our staff is able to communicate effectively and work more efficiently with these partners.



Step 1: Preferred Dealers

For the most up to date list of our preferred dealers visit http://

www.waystoworksd.org/preferred-vendor-information.html

http://www.waystoworksd.org/preferred-vendor-information.html





Step 2: Things to ConsiderWe understand that a car is often a status

symbol, but we strongly encourage you to consider these factors when selecting a car:1. The fanciest car may not be the best car – luxury

vehicles have high maintenance costs and are generally more expensive in the long-run.

2. The cheapest car may not be the right choice either – it’s tempting to try to save money on a car, but it’s reliability is most important. Look for deals, but don’t just get the cheapest car on a lot.



Step 2: Things to Consider3. Select a size that matches your household

needs – Have a family of 6? Then a large SUV or mini van may be necessary; otherwise, look for sedans as they generally have lower costs.

4. Consider gas expenses – smaller cars typically have better gas mileage, reducing the amount you’ll spend per month on gas.

5. Appearance – getting a car that looks cool or is a certain color isn’t the most important factor. Remember to think about why the car is important and what you’ll be using it for.



Step 2: Things to ConsiderTry to decide on a particular make and

model and test drive more than one vehicle for comparison. Things to look for:– Car should start easily without excessive noise.– While driving, watch for unusual vibrations, noises, pulling

left or right which may indicate alignment issues, or odors that might indicate mold or moisture (flood) damage.

– Try turning at various speeds; power steering should feel smooth, with little to no squealing.

– Ask to see and review a CarFax or Autocheck report. This shows the number of previous owners, reported accidents and if the vehicle has had problems passing smog. The dealer should provide you with this report free of charge.



Step 3: Vehicle InspectionA third-party vehicle inspection is

mandatory. Be sure to follow these regulations:– Vehicle inspection must be conducted by a

third-party inspector. Don’t allow a mechanic who works for the dealer to conduct the inspection.

– The inspection must be a full 120-point inspection.

– The inspection must be performed by either one of our preferred mechanics or any AAA-approved mechanic.



Step 3: Vehicle InspectionYou should do your own pre-inspection of the

vehicle before you choose to pay for a certified mechanic’s inspection. Here are the things to look for:– Body – Look for rust; small “blisters” may indicate

future rust sites. Check for paint that does not quite match or gritty surfaces, which may be signs of a new paint job, masking body problems. Cracks, dents, and loose bumpers may be signs of a past accident.

– Tires – Uneven wear can indicate bad alignment or suspension damage.

– Doors, Windows, Trunk lid – You want a close fit and ease of opening/closing. A door that fits uneven may be a sign of collision damage.



Step 3: Vehicle Inspection– Window Glass and Lights – Look for hairline cracks any tiny

holes. Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights, backup lights, and turn signals work properly.

– Tailpipe – Black, gummy soot in the tailpipe may mean worn rings or bad valves.

– Shock Absorbers – Lean hard on a corner of the car and release; if the car keeps rocking up and down, the shocks may need replacing.

– Fluids – Oil that is whitish can be a sign of mechanical problems. Radiator fluid should not be rusty. Transmission fluid should not smell rancid or be dark brown in color. Check for possible leaks.

– Mileage – A car with low mileage but significant wear and tear may indicate odometer tampering.

* Information taken from CA Bureau of Automotive Repair at www.bar.ca.gov, sponsored by the Dept. of Consumer Affairs

http://www.bar.ca.gov/



Step 3: Vehicle InspectionThe official vehicle inspection is an out-of-

pocket expense to you. We will not be able to reimburse you for this.

Be prepared to pay $50-$150 for the inspection, depending on whom you select.Please read and follow our inspection guidelines to prevent the need for a second inspection and additional costs.



Step 3: Vehicle InspectionThe vehicle inspection is critical to our

approval and your future safety.We require inspections not only to secure the value of our assets, but to ensure that you get a good-quality vehicle that will last.– Future safety issues may come up on the

inspection, which is important to your family.– Future maintenance requirements may be

required, affecting the amount of additional money you’ll be spending on the car for the next few years.



Step 3: Vehicle Inspection

For the most up to date list of our preferred mechanics visit






Step 4: Vehicle ApprovalOnce you select a vehicle, have it inspected, and want approval for purchase, please fax (858-637-3011) or drop off the following documents to Nina at JFS:– Purchase Order or Bill of Sale from dealership including

contact information– Copy of inspection report and any maintenance

recommendations– Carfax or Autocheck report

IMPORTANT: DO NOT TAKE THE CAR OFF OF THE LOT FOR ANYTHING BUT TEST DRIVE AND INSPECTION UNTIL APPROVED AND LOAN DOCUMENTS ARE SIGNED WITH A WAYS TO WORK STAFF MEMBER, EVEN IF THE DEALER SAYS IT’S OKAY!



Step 5: Auto InsuranceThe cost of insurance can range $50-$200/month and is dependent on different factors:– Your driving history– The value of the vehicle– Amount of coverage

California has minimum liability insurance requirements (compensates a person other than the policy holder for personal injury or property damage):– $15,000 for injury/death to one person– $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person– $5,000 for property damage

Comprehensive/collision coverage alone is not sufficient.



Step 5: Auto InsuranceOnce you select which auto insurance company you want to use, you will need to purchase insurance that meets California Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements for Private Passenger Vehicles.Make sure to list JFS as lienholder/loss payee:

Jewish Family Service of San Diego8804 Balboa AvenueSan Diego, CA 92123



Step 6: Loan ClosingOnce you have had your vehicle approved, you will need to provide Nina with proof of auto insurance (and proof of JFS listed as lienholder/loss payee).Our office will then submit the requests to obtain the check for the vehicle and loan documents. You will be scheduled for an appointment to sign the loan documents and pick up the check in approximately 2-5 days.



Step 6: Loan ClosingWhen you come to sign your loan documents, you will need the following items:– $60 loan origination fee (cash or money

order)– A duplicate car key in case of repossession

(this will be returned to you after paying off the total amount due)

Be prepared to go over final loan details and sign legal documents.


Steps to Selecting A CarStep 7: Picking Up Your

CarAfter signing all loan documents and our office receiving all necessary paperwork, you will be given the check for the full amount of the vehicle, made out to the dealership.You will take this check to the dealership and exchange it for the car.Now you can drive your car home!


Managing Your Payments

Please remember that you were approved for a loan on a character-basis and the repayment of this loan is your responsibility. We want to see you succeed, so please stay in communication with us if you are experiencing any hardship so that we can offer resources and assistance.



Making your car payments on time is important. Keep your monthly payment amount and account number handy. Payments can be sent to:

Ways to WorkAttn: Loan ServicingPO Box 5920Madison, WI 53705

Talk to Nina at [email protected] or 858-637-3232 about setting up automatic withdrawal of your payments from your bank account.




Remember that you cannot drive your Ways to Work car without having it properly insured. If you are unable to make both your car payment and auto insurance payment, make sure your insurance is covered first and then contact our office so that we can try to find way to help you.


Any Other Questions?

You can always reach out to the Ways to Work team!– Shelly Hahne, Program Manager

[email protected] 858-637-3088– Nina Vaysburd, Program Coordinator

[email protected] 858-637-3232– Ellen Broudy, Program Assistant

[email protected] 858-637-3206– Ashley Millanes, MSW Intern

[email protected] 858-637-3397






Again, Congratulations!

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