Finance Blog

Finance News, Comments & Advice

Toyota release special edition Corolla

July 22nd, 2010 in Car Finance

The Toyota Corolla is a very popular vehicle amongst Australians and as such Toyota wish to continue their success. They have done this by introducing a special edition Ascent Sport hatch to attract more customers. The special edition sport has been based on the 2010 Corolla Ascent, however, you will find $1,600 worth of additional equipment for just $510 extra.

The special edition boasts 16 inch alloy wheels, front foglamps and a body kit. The body kit consists of a front spoiler and a rear wing. Toyota are hoping that the sports model will appeal to the Y Generation. With an audio head unit that has amber backlighting, bluetooth, USB connectivity, cruise control, a premium steering wheel and gearshift knob, they are certainly heading in the right direction.

To find out if you qualify for car finance on one of these fantastic new vehicles speak to a friendly Madison Finance representative on 1300 887 967.

New financial year sales

July 22nd, 2010 in Car Finance

We have noticed that car dealerships are having new financial year sales. This is in a bid to continue their increased sales and meet new budgets. Demonstrator and pre-owned vehicles seem to be the cars they are eager to offer the greatest bargain on, so they can make way for new vehicles. Some manufacturers are already offering great specials on their new vehicles, including free CTP, stamp duty and registration.

If you are keen to grab yourself a bargain speak to a Madison Finance representative to arrange pre-approval of your car finance. This way you can purchase with confidence, knowing that your car finance is approved and that you are staying within your budget.

Car finance for the new year

July 17th, 2010 in Car Finance

It is a new year for the car dealerships and they are keen to kick off the new financial year with a high level of sales. As such, you will continue to find great deals on new and used cars at car dealerships. With pressure to continue to meet their budgets they will be eager to provide you with the car you require at a good price.

To ensure that you not only receive a great deal on your car but also your car finance, utilise the services of a car finance broker. A broker will be able to provide you with a wide range of car financing options to ensure that you are provided with the best possible car finance deal. With such a wide array of car finance products you will be able to find a car finance solution tailored to your needs, circumstances and budget.

Car safety for children

July 17th, 2010 in Car Finance

The rules for child restraints was amended recently to protect our children from injuries sustained in the event of a car accident. Children are to remain in a form of restraint until they are 7 years of age. For infants under 6 months an approved a rearward facing restraint is to be used, and this must only be used in the back seat. For children aged 6 months to under 4 years they must use either an approved rearward or forward facing restraint with an inbuilt harness. Once your child reaches 6 months it doesn’t mean they can be placed in a forward facing restraint. A forward facing restraint can only be used once they meet the weight or length limit for their rearward facing restraint.

Once again children from 4 years to 7 years of age can only be restrained in the back seats. They can use either a forward facing restraint with inbuilt harness or an approved booster seat. Once your child reaches 4 years of age do not place them in a booster seat until they reach the weight limit of 18 kg. It is recommended that children over 7 years of age still travel in the back seat and continue to use their booster seat until they reach 26 kg and meet the height limit of 145cm. For more information on child restraints visit the vic roads website.

What to have in an emergency car kit

July 7th, 2010 in Car Finance

Having a car that is safe is vital. Most new cars these days are fitted with at least driver and passenger air bags. The more prestigous the car, the more air bags you would expect to have fitted. Airbags that you may now find installed include, side, curtain and knee. This provides extra safety to occupants of the vehicle provided that a seatbelt is still worn.

Aside from ensuring that you are driving a safe vehicle you should ensure that you have the necessities in the event of an emergency. Roadside assistance is worthwhile but make sure you have the phone number and your member number in the vehicle. Ensure that your jack is in working order. Carry a torch in case you need to look in the bonnet at night. You should always carry a first aid kit in the event of an injury, particularly given you may not be close to medical assistance. Most people carry a mobile phone these days but ensure that it is charged. Carrying a mobile phone car charger is wise. A hazard triangle is particularly useful if working on a broken down car at night.

Jumper cables are very useful in the event of a breakdown as you can use these to jumpstart your car provided another vehicle is available to lend a hand. Having spare notes and coins tucked away for emergencies only will come in handy if you need food, fuel or any other essential.