Archive for the ‘Tips and Tricks’ Category

What To Do When Your Truck Won’t Start

Monday, May 27th, 2019
Mechanic checking a vehicle's battery

Common Truck Starting Problems and Solutions

There’s not much worse than that moment when you just can’t get your truck to start. Whether your key isn’t turning in the ignition, the engine won’t crank, or it just keeps revving but never starts, we’ve got some suggestions that can help you figure out what’s wrong and get your vehicle going again.

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Is it legal to sell a car without a title in Texas?

Saturday, May 11th, 2019
Salesman and customer at a dealership

Selling a Vehicle Without a Title of Ownership

A vehicle title is the most important document in a car sale, as it is the certificate which confirms the car’s ownership status. There are a variety of reasons, however, that you may not have a title for a vehicle in your possession, and you may still want to sell it.

If this is the case, you’re likely wondering: is it legal to sell a car without a title in Texas?

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Can I sell a car that doesn’t have my name on the title?

Monday, May 6th, 2019
A vehicle Title certificate lays underneath a Certificate of Origin for a Vehicle.

How to Sell a Car That’s Not in Your Own Name

For whatever reason, you might find yourself in possession of a car that’s not titled in your own name. Is it possible (and legal) to sell the vehicle in this situation? Let’s take a look. (more…)

What are the best Mother’s Day 2019 activities in Austin, TX?

Wednesday, May 1st, 2019
A bright array of breakfast food is fronted by a small note saying, "Happy Mother's Day!"

Mother’s Day 2019 Activities in Austin TX

Like everything in the future, Mother’s Day 2019 is drawing closer with every passing moment. If you’re looking for a good way to show mom how much she means to you this year, we’ve got some suggestions. Read on to see a few of the Mother’s Day events in Austin that we’re most excited for. (more…)

What is a vehicle history report?

Sunday, April 21st, 2019
Rows of vehicles on a used car lot.

The Lowdown on Vehicle History Reports

If you’re shopping for a used car, you may have heard mention of a “vehicle history report,” and wondered just what that is. No, it’s not a high school essay on the origin of moving transport. A vehicle history report is a near-essential element of purchasing a used car. (more…)

Is a vehicle with a salvage title insurable in Austin TX?

Tuesday, April 16th, 2019
Two repairmen dressed in blue put a new bumper on the front of a car in the service shop.

Insurance Options for Salvaged Vehicles

You might find a great used car at a cheap price, only to discover that it was, in the past, totaled. This results in the vehicle being awarded (wink wink) what’s called a “salvage title.” In Texas, cars get a salvage title if the repair costs (not including repainting) are more than the vehicle’s Blue Book value before the accident. But will you be able to get insurance on such a specimen? (more…)

How reliable are vehicle history reports?

Thursday, April 11th, 2019
Two humans use electronic devices for unknown purposes while sitting on a couch. They might be checking Vehicle History Reports.

What CARFAX isn’t Telling You

When buying a used car, a highly recommended step is to get a vehicle history report. Ideally, this report lets you know all pertinent information regarding the past lives of the vehicle and whether or not it’s going to fall apart the moment you get it off the dealer’s lot.

The most common vehicle report service is CARFAX. Generally, a used-vehicle dealer will pay for a CARFAX report on the vehicle you’re considering, but you have to ask for it. We’re going to see if CARFAX is a fully reliable source for vehicle history. But first, lets look at what CARFAX does and how it does it. (more…)

Can you buy a car without a driver’s license in Texas?

Saturday, March 16th, 2019
Salesman shakes the hand of a man who sits beside a woman, with a car in the background. A green question mark floats in front of the man's face, indicating something in unresolved in his mind.

Though typically individuals wait to buy a car until after they have a driver’s license, a variety of situations may arise where someone wants to buy a car despite not having a valid license. This could range from reasons such as buying the car as a gift, to buying it for an employee to drive, or buying only for use on one’s personal property.

If you’re planning to do this yourself, you’re probably wondering: is it legal to buy a car without a driver’s license in Texas? (more…)

Tips for Buying Your First Car

Thursday, February 28th, 2019
Young man in background out of focus is looking at a car.

What to Think About When Buying Your First Vehicle

After graduating high school or college, you’ll likely feel the need for a vehicle to navigate your passage into the world of adulthood. Whether you’re continuing your education or starting a job, having a car is in many cases essential in American society. Buying your first car can feel overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of things to think about to make this process a little easier and help you find the vehicle that’s perfect for your needs. (more…)

Lifesaving Tips About Tires

Saturday, February 23rd, 2019
Seven tires together in a line on a white background.

Tire Safety Guide – What You Should Know

Here at Third Coast Auto, some people call us “tire-lovers.” And we’re fine with that. Tires are important. Without them, our whole vehicle would be rendered useless and immobile. But we don’t spend nearly as much time thinking about them as we should. To remedy that, here’s some helpful tips about tires- and they just might save your life. (more…)