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The windshield, mirrors, and other glasses on a motor vehicle not only protect you from dirt, dust and debris, but they allow you to see outside and safely drive your car.

In other words, car glasses are extremely important. So, what do you do when one or more of them get damaged?

You get the glass changed of course! But when you start your research, plenty of options pop up. Do you go with the OEM new glass, the brand-new aftermarket one, or look for used glass? You have to choose the best one, based on your budget and car’s condition.

Keep reading, as we decide the best automotive glass you should install in your vehicle.

Reasons to Buy OEM Glass and not Aftermarket?

When you begin your research to buy glass you have two major options: OEM and Aftermarket.

If you have ever bought parts for your vehicle, you would know that genuine parts are called ‘OEM’. On the other hand, auto parts that are made by other manufacturers for your particular car are called aftermarket. So, which one is best? Should you buy cheaper aftermarket parts or spend money on more expensive OEM parts?

Well, any mechanic or car enthusiast will tell you that OEM is the best option by far. We figured you would want to know why that is the case, so here are a few reasons to buy OEM glass rather than aftermarket.

Compliant with Manufacturer’s Safety Standards

Car manufacturers build motor vehicles in a way that they are compliant with certain safety standards.

OEM windshields and mirrors are built to comply with those standards, but you can’t say the same about aftermarket parts.

The internet is full of complaints by aftermarket part users who complain that the windshields, mirrors and glasses they buy from a secondary manufacturer are not the right size, not built to be sturdy, and often low-quality.

No Post-Installation Issues

A big problem with after market windshields and mirrors is that they are not always built to the exact measurements of your vehicle.

They can sometimes fit perfectly but other times there could be gaps which are hard to fill. In such cases, your car won’t be properly sealed from the elements outside and you would experience a lot of trouble with rain, dust and wind seeping inside the cabin.

With OEM parts, this is not an issue, because unlike aftermarket components, OEM ones fit your car perfectly and there is never a margin for error post-installation.

Components are Functional

Modern cars have several functionalities built into them that allow the driver to drive in comfort. We are talking about the windshield sensors, pedestrian sensors, collision assist sensors that are found on a car’s windshield.

Unfortunately, these sensors and cameras can be missing if you install a new aftermarket windshield. That’s one reason you can find them for cheap.

OEM windshields and mirrors, on the other hand, have all the cameras and sensors that are compatible with your vehicle. Plus, they are all functional and allow you to be as comfortable driving as before.

There’s No Drop in Car Value

Since aftermarket parts lack the proper features and functionality that an OEM part provides, they become the number one reason for a drop in the value of a car.

Most buyers see aftermarket components as a disability in your vehicle, so it is always a good idea to trust OEM parts, even if they are used.

Car wreckers in NZ sell high-quality used OEM windshields, mirrors, and glasses for all kinds of vehicles so you can contact them right away and get your fix. This way, you won’t see a drop in your car’s value and will even save money by buying less-expensive OEM components.

Used Car Glass: But Why?

Many enthusiasts say that it is better to buy a used auto glass than spending money on a new one. After all, aftermarket is out of the option, so you only have OEM on the table and from that you can either buy new or used. So, which one should you choose?

We’ll make things easier for you by giving you the pros and cons of each:

Helps Conserve Natural Resources

We have all heard of the concept of reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Well, the same idea applies with used car parts and how they help conserve natural resources. The practice allows manufacturers to build less replacement parts, making it easier on the environment.

Less Expensive

New parts are extremely expensive, but they are genuine, which is why most people buy them. However, with used parts, you get the best of both worlds.

Not only are used components genuine and high-quality but they are less expensive than new ones. In some cases, even cheaper than aftermarket ones.

More Options for Rare Cars

People who have rare, limited-edition, or old cars can find it hard to get glasses for their vehicle. That’s especially true if the particular vehicle is discontinued. So, what do you do? You visit a car wrecker to get high-quality parts for your vehicle.

Easy DIY

It is often very easy to DIY any repairs or replacements if you are replacing an older part with an identical new one. You only have to follow the steps in reverse to do the job.

Cons of Used Auto Glass

Although there are several advantages to buying used car glass, there are some disadvantages as well. Here are a few for you to consider.

Warranty Issues

It’s common knowledge that installing a used part or an aftermarket one can void the warranty of your vehicle. So, consult your manufacturer’s policy before taking any step.

Part Likely to Be Damaged

There’s never a guarantee that the used part you install in your car was taken off properly from the previous car. Although car wreckers are careful with extractions, there is still a chance that things could have gone wrong. But worry not, since at Xpress Auto Parts we do our best to keep things in their best condition.

Insurance Problems

It’s possible that your insurance service provider does not cover used parts as a replacement. This means you might have to pay the costs in their entirety, if you intend to take this route.

Always double check with your insurance about the cover cost it may impact.

New Car Glass: But Why?

While buying used glass is definitely an advantage, you cannot deny the benefits or drawbacks new auto glass brings. Let’s explore them here.

Pros of New Auto Glass

Here are the advantages of buying new car glass:

Brand-New Part

Fresh and brand-new parts have no faults, they are easy to buy online, and are available no matter where you are in NZ.

Covered by Warranty

It’s possible that the new part comes with a warranty of its own, which is a big plus.

Renew Insurance

You can also upgrade your insurance policy to include the newly changed part.

Cons of New Auto Glass

There are not many cons of buying new car glass, but they must still be considered:

Higher Cost

No matter what you do, buying new car glass will cost you more than the used option.

Complex Installation

You might not be well-equipped to install new glass, which is an instant drawback.

The one question that most people ask themselves after selling a car is this: what do I do now? Well, you have sold your car and you have cash in hand. What else could there be?

As it turns out, in NZ, there are a few things you still have to do after selling your vehicle. There aren’t a lot of requirements but they are important and failure in completing them could result in fines from the NZTA.

So, without rambling on any further, here are the requirements you have to fulfill after selling your car in NZ:

After Sale Documents

Once you have done all the hard work and sold your vehicle to the best candidate, you have still some requirements to fulfill.

Don’t worry, they are not too many or difficult to complete, but extremely necessary. Why are they necessary? You’ll learn later in this article, why completing these after sales formalities is a must for every seller residing in NZ.

The Sales Invoice

The first thing on your list should be acquiring the sales invoice.

Although this document isn’t necessary, in some cases, it can come in handy. That’s because the sales invoice is proof that you have sold your vehicle to someone else and that no liabilities apply to you.

Therefore, try and keep a copy of the sales invoice with you to avoid any hassle in the future.

Remove from Insurance Account

Sometimes, people forget the very important detail of removing their sold vehicle from their insurance account.

This usually goes unnoticed until the time when an accident happens. When the new owner of your vehicle gets involved in a fender bender, your insurance company becomes liable to pay for the damages because it is the one listed. Ultimately, you are paying insurance premium for something you did not do.

So, to avoid an inconvenience like that and to save yourself from unnecessary hassles, as soon as you sell your car to somebody, remove that vehicle from your insurance account.

Also, inform the buyer of this, so they can switch the car to their insurance plan.

Notice of Disposal (NOD)

The two things we discussed above were important for you personally as a seller.

But one thing that is important for you and the authorities is the notice of disposal (NOD). This document, as its name suggests, is a kind of notice given to the authorities that you have disposed of your vehicle and it is no longer under your possession.

When the NZTA receive this document from you they can update their records and add the name of the new owner beside that of the vehicle.

Luckily, the Notice of Disposal is free to submit and it can be done both online and by visiting the NZTA office. You can choose whichever method suits you best. But, keep in mind, that this document is compulsory to submit within 14 days of the sale.

If you exceed that deadline, you could be asked to pay a fine. Not only that, but the buyer would find it difficult to register his car with the Waka Kotahi. Therefore, be vigilant with this responsibility and submit the NOD as soon as possible.

Things You’ll Need for NOD Submission

The document is pretty straightforward so it doesn’t require any complex information. All you’ll need is your name, your vehicle’s registration number, your signature, the date of sale, the price at which you’ve sold the car, and the particulars of the buyer.

The details of filling the form can be found in another article on our website. It will teach you how to fill and submit to form from start to finish.

Once you have entered this information on the form, you can enter submit and the authorities will be notified. It’s as simple as that!

Problems Submitting NOD Online?

In some rare cases, you might be asked to submit the NOD physically at one of the NZTA Service Centres. Perhaps, the system is faulty and isn’t working or there is some other technical problem affecting the Waka Kotahi website. If you face such an inconvenience, it is best to visit the nearest Service Centre and do the job quickly.

Other Things to Do After Sale

Once you have completed the checklist of documents and are ready to hand over the vehicle to the buyer, you must do a few more things in good faith.

Clean Your Vehicle

The buyer will appreciate it if you hand them over a vehicle that is clean from top to bottom. We are talking about a nice top wash, a thorough interior cleaning and dirt removal. Your car should look like it has been taken care of not that it has been abused over the years.

While you are doing that, also keep in mind to remove all your personal belongings from your vehicle. After all, you wouldn’t want any sentimental items to go to the new owner of the car.

Start The Search for a New Vehicle

This might not apply to all of you sellers out there, but some of you might have sold your current car to pay for the next one.

If that is the case, you must start searching for a replacement car, if you haven’t already. It is not easy to find a vehicle that fits your budget, so the quicker you are with the search the better your chances will be at finding your dream replacement vehicle.

Proof of Transfer

The last important thing is acquiring the proof of transfer from the buyer. You want to ensure that the new owner of the vehicle has registered the vehicle in their name and informed the NZTA about the transfer. So, ask them to give you a copy of the transfer document, which will remove you of any further responsibilities related to the vehicle.

The Nissan X-Trail can be a handy vehicle to have given its ability to tackle driving both on and off the road.

It is particularly built for this kind of driving, and that can be taken as an advantage, but petrolheads would know that it can also be detrimental to the health of the vehicle.

As it turns out, rough off-road driving can wear-out your vehicle quicker. It can also lessen the life of various components like the suspension, the undercarriage, and exterior body parts.

Unfortunately, there is nothing much you can do about this except replacing as many worn-out parts as you can. However, even that approach can’t last for so long, because there will come a time when you just have to say goodbye to your less than perfect Nissan X-Trail.

But, will anyone buy your beat-up Nissan X-Trail? Well, you can be successful but not without trying. So, here are a few tips and tricks you can use to try getting good value for your vehicle:

Ways To Sell a Damaged Nissan X-Trail

Selling a vehicle isn’t that difficult, but when you are trying to sell a damaged one, things can get a bit tricky.

In this case, you have to be inventive and eke out as much as you can from the vehicle to make it presentable to the buyer.

Here is something that should prove helpful:

Clean It Thoroughly

A good thorough cleaning is necessary if you want to make your car look presentable to the buyer.

This involves removing all the dust and dirt from atop the car and giving it a nice shampoo wash to bring the sparkles out. If the buyer decides to buy your car, you can bet that your cleaning played a role in their decision.

Repair as Much as Possible

Damage on a vehicle will show even if it is small, and buyers don’t like that.

So what do you do? Well, you make a list of things that are damaged, like the exterior body parts, the lights, components in the cabin etc.

When you have done that, you should buy as many replacement parts as your budget allows.

Also, ensure that when you are buying parts, you have some knowledge of replacing them yourself, or else you would break your bank employing a mechanic. Yes, mechanics aren’t cheap in New Zealand and can actually cost you as much as buying a new vehicle. Therefore, perform upgrades but be wise.

If you want, you can save some money by buying genuine used parts from salvage yards. Doing this can help keep you within your budget.

Take Proper Pictures of Your X-Trail

It is not stressed enough, but taking good pictures of the car you intend to sell can massively improve its chances if impressing a buyer.

No, it doesn’t matter if your vehicle is damaged or not. You have to be honest and take pictures from all angles under good lighting.

The potential buyers will appreciate that, since there will be no hiding the damage or dishonesty involved.

Sell Parts Separately

Although this approach is not highly recommended, you can sell your Nissan X-Trail piece by piece to people who are looking for parts. This exercise will involve a lot of effort and time on your part, but it is doable if the motivation is there.

However, keep this option only as a last resort, because extracting parts safely and with the right tools is a tough job. You are more likely to hurt yourself in this endeavour and probably damage the car even further.

Best Place to Sell Your Damaged Nissan X-Trail

Now that you know all the tips and tricks to sell your car, it is time we come on to the most important discussion – who should you sell it to?

Well, there are plenty of options at hand, out of which some are desirable while others should best be avoided. So, without rambling too much, we will give you the best option for your damaged Nissan X-Trail and why others are not desirable options.

Sell To Car Wreckers

If there is any place that deserves to be called the second-home of damaged and unwanted vehicles it is a car wrecker’s yard.

Yes, some people conveniently call it the graveyard of vehicles and while that may be true, it doesn’t matter in your case, since as long as you are getting paid, it shouldn’t matter where your car ends up.

Car wreckers buy damaged cars that no one else is willing to buy and pay good money for them. Don’t believe us? You could look online and find that they pay instant cash for cars, which is $100 to $10,000 for a vehicle, depending on their condition.

It’s possible that your vehicle is badly damaged and you don’t get anywhere near the $10,000 mark, but it is still some money for a vehicle that you might have thought to be worthless junk.

Another reason you should sell to car wreckers is that you can’t sell anywhere else. No one in their right mind will buy a damaged vehicle unless they are looking for a donor car. Even then, a potential buyer would go to a car wrecker for this kind of stuff and not trust you.

Why Dealerships and Private Buyers Aren’t an Option?

One might ask the question, why can’t I sell to private buyers or dealerships? They are a good option, aren’t they?

Well, in order to sell to a private buyer or a dealership, your Nissan X-Trail must be fit for purpose.

In other words, it must be drivable on the road and it must have a warrant of fitness certificate which is at least a month old. Unfortunately, with a damaged vehicle you can’t get a Warrant of Fitness certificate, and that is reason enough for a buyer to not buy your vehicle.

Plus, dealerships and private buyers are usually looking or vehicles that require minimum work, so they can flip the car or sell it in a profit relatively easily.

A less than perfect Nissan X-Trail would require a series of repairs to make it presentable, which would cost money and that is something that leads to unprofitability for both a dealership and a private buyer.

Therefore, if you have a damaged Nissan X-Trail with you and you want to get rid of it, contact your nearest car wrecker and get instant cash for your junk vehicle.

A car that looks stylish, is dependable, and doesn’t cost a lot to maintain never goes out of fashion.

The Honda Civic is a car that fits that description, which is why people all across the world love it so much. If you have one and you are selling it, chances are that you are doing it with a heavy heart. But, do not allow your emotions to come in the way of maximising profit.

Instead, make wise decisions so that your Civic ends up in the hands of a deserving candidate.

Here is what we recommend you should do to get the most out of selling your Honda Civic.

Before You Sell

If you want, you can go out and sell your car in its current condition. But it won’t earn you enough, which is why you should follow the advice below:

Remove Temporary Modifications

Some folks like modifying their car to their liking, which is fine, but only as long as you are its owner.

There is no guarantee that the person you are selling your car to will like the same modifications. Having said that, and we are not pointing any fingers, but many Honda Civic owners like modifying their cars a certain way.

If you are one of them, try removing as many of the modifications as you can. This increases the chances of your car getting potential offers and you can get rid of it faster.

Make Small Repairs

There is no point selling a car that has sustained too much damage or it shows signs of wear from extensive use.

After all, it won’t attract any serious offers from potential buyers. So, what should you do? The answer is easy. You should make small repairs wherever possible and perform any cosmetic fixes to improve the overall look of your vehicle.

Perhaps the car door has dents, the bonnet has scratches, or one taillight is broken. Whatever the case might be, you should spend some money to make money. Repair your car as best as you can and leave the rest to market forces.

Clean the Car

There is no person on Earth who wouldn’t appreciate a clean and well-maintained car.

Cleanliness just has that effect on people and you should use that to your advantage. So, before you sell your Honda Civic and take its photos to post in an ad, clean it thoroughly.

If needed, employ the services of a detailer, to bring out the best of your vehicle.

When it’s all done, you will appreciate the job yourself, let alone a potential buyer who is interested in your car.

Remove Belongings

Your car is like your second home, and while you don’t live in it, there are probably some things lying around inside that need to be taken out.

We are talking about important documents, USBs, spare change and God knows what else. So, take out some extra time out of your day to remove your personal belongings from your Honda Civic.

After all, it is better to do the work now rather than facing regret later.

Take Good Photos

When it comes to selling cars, nowadays, photos can make or break a deal. If the person viewing your Civic’s photos isn’t satisfied, they might not call you to inquire further.

In fact, its possible that you lose many potential buyers due to poor quality pictures. Therefore, ensure you have

1. a good phone camera to take pictures
2. good sunlight
3. pictures from several angles

Once you have photos that satisfy the above three criterions, you can move your focus towards the selling process.

How to Get the Best Price?

If your worried about getting low-balled and scammed into paying a lower price, pay attention to the points below and you’ll never have any trouble.

Sell Online

If you want to connect with several people and don’t want to physically meet with all of them, then selling your car online is a good option.

When you are selling online, you get to choose the potential buyers you want to interact with. If you don’t like the offer, you can reject it without causing a lot of drama, and there are no middlemen involved.

In short, you are in full control, which is the best position to be in when selling a vehicle. Plus, places like TradeMe and Facebook Marketplace have known to be great places to sell old cars, like Honda Civics.

Dedicated Dealerships

Dealerships are not only a good choice to buy cars from, but they are equally good if you want to sell your vehicle.

Some dealerships, as you’ll find, are dedicated to a particular make. For example, a dealership that only deals in the buying and selling of Honda cars.

If you can find a dealership like that, you can get a good deal for your Honda Civic. Otherwise, dealerships are infamous for throwing lowball figures and pressurizing people into buying or selling cars at a price they are not comfortable.

Car Wreckers

There is nothing wrong in considering car wreckers as a viable option to sell your Honda Civic.

That’s because, wreckers are known to buy cars regardless of their condition. So, whether your vehicle is totalled, damaged, written-off, or too worn-out to be appealing to other buyers; at junkyards you’ll find viable offers every time.

Your Last Resort

What must you do, if there is no-one willing to buy your Honda Civic and you are looking for a place that gives instant cash for cars? Well, the easiest answer is that you should put your trust in salvage yards.

We at Atlas Auto are not only used part suppliers, but also car wreckers and buyers of all kids of vehicles. If you want to sell your Honda Civic, we will buy it off of you and pay between $400 to $12,000 depending on a few factors. Of course, the payment is instant, if you accept our offer and we pick up cars from their location for free.

There comes a time in your life when you just have to get rid of your wrecked car before it loses any more value.

While that time doesn’t come often, you should be prepared to take the necessary steps, so that if/when it does arrive you can maximize your profit.

For Toyota Camry owners, all of this is a bit easy, because there is a high-demand for this vehicle. But you must still know what to do and what not to do.

Therefore, for your assistance, here are a few ways you can get the most out of your Camry when selling in a hurry:

Toyota Camry: A Goldmine

It is no secret that people are always out on the lookout for used Toyota Camrys, and they sell like hotcakes.

But why is that? Well, the reliability and durability of this car is well-known and that is why most people prefer keeping a Camry than any other vehicle.

So naturally, there are plenty of aged Camrys out there and their owners are ready to buy any used parts they can get their hands on, just to maintain their vehicles. Most of these guys are mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, or car wreckers.

Moreover, since a Toyota Camry is reliable, people are willing to buy used ones, even those with some damage. So, whether your Camry is road-worthy or damaged, you will always find willing buyers for your car.

Know Your Car’s Value

Now that you know used Toyota Camrys are in high-demand, you must estimate what your car is worth.

After all, not all vehicles are the same. Their condition, mileage, extent of damage, plays a pivotal role in determining the final price.

But, how can you estimate the value of your Camry? Well, the process is quite simple. You have to spend some time online looking at the ads of various other Camrys that are on sale.

Out of those, try shortlisting the cars that are in your area and look similar to yours in terms of damage and mileage.

Then, based on the data you collect, estimate a price for your car, while keeping some room for bargaining.

Be Honest About the Damage

When it comes to transactions, like selling cars, try to be completely honest with the other party.

If your car has damage, tell them. If it has any history of mechanical failures, inform the buyer of all the details. Make sure you don’t leave anything secret.

This also holds true when you are taking pictures of your vehicle to post an ad.

Take pictures in different angles, be extremely coherent while describing the extent of the damage on your Camry. If possible, take close-up shots of the damaged area so the buyer can inspect it clearly.

Moreover, if you have maintenance or service records, provide them to the other party to build trust and a level of respect.

Selling Options for Quick Cash:

There are a few places you can get cash for cars while in a hurry:

Dealerships

One of the best places to get fast cash is at a dealership.

Many of them offer instant quotes for your car and are also willing to pay immediate cash. However, in your hurry, you must keep in mind that dealerships have a culture of offering ridiculously low amounts of money for the cars they buy.

Luckily, you can protect yourself from being low-balled, by doing your research beforehand.

To do this, try comparing the quotes from different dealerships and then sell to the one that is offering you the most.

But even then, we would advise choosing other alternatives and keeping dealerships as your last resort.

Selling to Private Buyers

If you sell to private buyers, you have the option of connecting with a wider audience and having a one-on-one negotiation with the buyer.

This allows both the parties to develop a level of trust before the transaction can happen. And if things do not work out, you can always move on to the next willing buyer.

Some great platforms to find private buyers are TradeMe and Facebook Marketplace.

These websites, are a great place to connect with buyers, but to sell here you need immaculate photos of your Toyota Camry and a description to let the buyer get a clear idea of your car’s condition.

Tip: Try to take photos different angles during the day and write as much information you can in the description box. The description should include details of the damaged area, your car’s mileage, your rough location, and the price you want to sell the car.

Selling to Car Wreckers

If your car has extensive damage and you think it is beyond repair, then selling to a car wrecker is your best option.

These guys buy vehicles without paying too much attention to its condition. As long as it’s not rusted, wreckers will buy your Toyota Camry and pay you good money.

Junkyards are on the lookout for damaged cars like yours, because they need it to extract parts. They later sell the parts and recycle the useless stuff.

But, even with wreckers you are bound to get varying offers. Therefore, try getting quotes form several yards before selecting the one that suits you.

Maximizing Your Profit

Sometimes, it is worth making small repairs and fixes to your car to increase the chances of getting a good offer from buyers.

Perhaps, the lights are damaged, or there are small scratches and dents in some places. You can get rid of those by going to a workshop for repairs or by buying new parts.

Alternatively, you can use the services of a car wrecker to buy used parts and then replace your old ones with high-quality used components.

Other than that, it also helps if you clean your Toyota Camry and take it for detailing before you take its photos for the ad. A clean car is more likely to attract buyers, because it shows you took care of your vehicle, resulting in a good offer.

Car theft is a real problem for vehicle owners and it is getting worse by each passing day. You see, when it comes to car theft, there is usually a pattern.

If you can identify it, you can protect yourself, to one extent, from being a victim. How? Well, buy not buying the vehicles that are popularly picked up by car-jackers, of course!

However, if you still decide to buy the cars listed in this article, at least you’ll know that you are at risk and can take extra safety precautions.

We have used data from AMI – a top insurance provider in NZ – to help you steer clear of the most stolen cars in New Zealand. So, without further ado, let’s dive in:

1. Toyota Aqua

The Toyota Aqua, also known as the Toyota Prius C, takes the stop spot in the most stolen cars list for 2023.

Interestingly, it was also on the top of this list in 2022, so it’s clear that the Aqua is getting quite popular among car-jackers in NZ.

But this is unsurprising, because the Toyota Aqua isn’t also one of the most in-demand cars in Japan (its home country) but also in many parts of Asia. In fact, the Toyota Aqua is the most stolen keyless car in NZ.

2. Nissan Tiida

A small and compact car is something every city driver loves, which is why the Nissan Tiida takes the second spot in this list.

Interestingly, it is not the first time the Nissan Tiida is gracing the top of the most stolen cars list. The Tiida took the third spot in last year’s rankings, so this year the situation for Tiida car owners has gone a bit worse.

But it’s pretty natural for a car that is common on the roads to be the one chosen by thieves as their target, so no need to worry except you should take the necessary precautions.

3. Toyota Corolla

Ah, the car loved by the entire world, the Toyota Corolla. No wonder, this vehicle makes it to this list, because not only is it the most sold car in the world, it is also one of the most stolen in the world.

So, it’s natural for NZ numbers to be pretty much in line with the world. But this year has been special, in that the Toyota Corolla has climbed up five spots to take the third position.

So, this car is definitely under the radar.

4. Mazda Demio

Once the favourite of car thieves in New Zealand, this car has dropped down a few places in the latest rankings. The Mazda Demio takes the fourth spot, two down from its previous position.

5.Mazda Atenza

Stylish, reliable and a one-of-a-kind vehicle like the Mazda Atenza (Mazda 6) is bound to be on a list like this. The Atenza takes the fifth spot this year, which is one down from its previous ranking.

6. Toyota Mark X

Who doesn’t love the sporty Mark X? This car is worth its mettle, which is why most people prefer it to its alternatives. But unfortunately, when a car gains popularity among the masses, it becomes a target for car-jackers and thieves. As a result, the Toyota Mark X takes the sixth spot – one down from last year.

7. Toyota Vitz

The Toyota Vitz is compact, reliable and affordable. In other words, it is a complete package, which is why the Toyota Vitz is stolen a lot in NZ. It lands on the seventh spot on the most stolen cars in NZ list.

8. Subaru Impreza

Thanks to its rally roots, this car is famous among car enthusiasts, which also makes it the prime target for thieves. If you have one, you should know that it is now on the 8th spot – one higher than 2022.

9. Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy takes the second-last spot on this list and rightly so. It is one of the best mid-size sedans in New Zealand, hence the attention from thieves. Interestingly, however, the Legacy has dropped down two places since last year, which is somewhat of a good news for Subaru Legacy owners.

10. Toyota Hilux

Being the only ute on this list is an achievement, but it is a cause for concern for those who own the Toyota Hilux. It’s pretty evident that Toyota vehicles are not very hard to steal, so you should definitely take precautions if you have one.

Most Stolen Cars by Region

We thought it would be helpful knowing which car is the most likely to be picked up from which New Zealand region. So, here is a short list for your information and guidance

REGION	CAR MOST STOLEN
Auckland	Toyota Aqua
Canterbury	Toyota Aqua
Waikato	Nissan Tiida
Wellington	Toyota Aqua
Bay of Plenty	Nissan Tiida
Manawatu-Whanganui	Mazda Atenza
Northland	Nissan Tiida
Hawke’s Bay	Nissan Tiida
Otago	Mazda Demio
Southland	Mazda Demio
Gisborne	Mazda Demio
Taranaki	Mazda Atenza
Nelson	Nissan Tiida
Tasman	Mazda Atenza
Marlborough	Mazda Demio
West Coast	Holden Commodore

How To Protect Against Car Theft?

Although there is not a lot you can do once your car is stolen, you can take precautions. After all, the car that is the most difficult to steal is the one that is the most properly protected.

So, here are a few tips you can follow to keep your car safe:

• Park your car in a secured area, like a garage or a protected driveway.
• In case you have to park on the street, try to find a well-lit area.
• You should consider installing an immobilizer or any other anti-theft protection system on your vehicle. Some examples include: a car alarm, steering-lock, or a GPS tracking system.
• Avoid leaving your started and unlocked car unattended.
• Hide or remove any valuables from your car. If they are visible, chances are someone will try to break-in your vehicle.
• Always remember to lock all doors and completely shut all the windows, including the sunroof before exiting your vehicle.
• Store your key fob in an a thick aluminium or tin case, or better yet get a signal blocking box off the market to stop thieves from cloning your key.

We often hear people call the car’s engine its heart and the ECU its brain but these components are useless without a working battery acting as the backbone of the entire system.

Once the battery fails, all the other systems come to a halt and your car essentially becomes unusable.

That’s something you would like to avoid. So, to prevent any of this from happening and to keep your car running perfectly at all times, here are six tell-tale signs you need a new car battery.

Dashboard Warning Light

Every car has a dashboard battery indicator, which lights up whenever there is something wrong with the battery.

You should never ignore this warning light and inspect the battery immediately; as it could either be charging improperly, the connectors could be loose, or the battery could be nearing the end of its life.

This light rarely comes on, but if and when it does you should take immediate action.

Difficulty Starting Your Car

One of the most recognizable signs that your car needs a new battery is when you have difficulty starting the engine.

If it takes you more than a few tries to start your vehicle, then it could possibly mean that the battery is nearing the end of its life.

You should immediately get it inspected to avoid any inconvenience.

Dimming of Lights

When you are driving at night, you should take notice of the headlights.

If they are dim and not as bright as before, it means that your car probably needs a new battery.

Yes, it could also mean you need new headlight bulbs.

So, to be sure, head over to the nearest workshop to get your car’s battery and headlights inspected.

Rancid Smell from the Battery

When you open your vehicle’s bonnet and you sense a foul smell, similar to that of rotten eggs, coming from the battery, there is something seriously wrong.

This rancid smell means your battery is leaking from somewhere and it must be changed immediately.

Swollen Battery Case

If, on inspection, your car’s battery case looks swollen, it means that the battery is very near to failure.

This is caused by overcharging or due to overheating of the battery and it’s not safe to drive around with a battery in such a condition.

So, whenever you spot the slightest change in the battery’s case, head over to the nearest workshop to get a new battery.

Changing of the Car’s Battery Health Indicator

Every battery has a health indicator on top of it which shows its current health status.

Usually, if you see the colour green or blue on the indicator it means the battery is fully charged and in perfect condition.

On the other hand, if the colour is black or red, your battery needs a service and a full charge. However, if you see white, the battery is dead and it needs to be changed.

Note: Battery company use their own colours to show the health status of their battery. So, it’s better to refer to the key printed beside the battery health indicator for accurate information.

Buy New Battery or Used?

You’ve looked at the signs and have come to the conclusion that your car needs a fresh battery.

But should you buy a new one and pay more money or buy a used battery to save up on some dollars?

This question is very commonly asked and the answer is pretty straightforward: Getting a new battery is the ideal option.

However, if you are looking for car batteries at a discounted price, you can buy them used. You would just have to keep in mind a few things such as the battery’s condition, its remaining life and whether the place you are buying it form is credible. If all the conditions are met, there is no harm in buying a used battery.

Buying New Battery Pros and Cons

PROS	CONS
Longer lasting	Can hurt the wallet
Better car starts up	May have manufacturing issues but usually covered by warranties
Improved vehicle performance

Buying Old Battery Pros and Cons

PROS	CONS
Cheaper alternative	Shorter lifespan due to issues
Already tested	Limited used item warranties
Seller used item warranties
Good chance of getting something almost as new at much lower price

Best Place to Buy Used Car Batteries

Although buying a new car battery is the most preferred option, sometimes you can land upon an old battery that is hardly used by the previous owner.

In such an instance, you can enjoy the full benefits of the battery by paying less. However, this is only possible if you buy used car batteries from a trusted place and car wreckers in NZ are the best place to go.

Car wreckers receive hundreds of vehicles every week to dismantle and many of these cars reap very good quality original car parts.

Most of the times they are new cars that are not even fully damaged but written-off by authorities. For example, a vehicle that gets rear-ended, its parts from the front are completely original and usable and they are available at an affordable price at wreckers.

The best part is that you can call a wrecker, ask for the particular part, and have it delivered at your doorstep. It’s not always possible to get this kind of service when you buy a new battery.

How Often Should You Change Your Car’s Battery?

The average car battery lasts between 3 to 5 years, depending on usage.

So, once the third year starts, you should begin looking for signs of failure mentioned above. If you notice any, you should immediately take your car for a checkup and change your car’s battery.

Also keep in mind that dry batteries generally last longer than lead-acid batteries. You don’t have to maintain them and they don’t malfunction if you forget to inspect them.

If used auto parts are what you long for, your best bet is searching for them at Atlas Auto. We specialise in selling high-quality genuine car parts to our clients for all kinds of vehicles, makes and models.

We even deliver used components straight to your home, so there is no need to visit our premises and indulge yourself in an awkward social interaction. Isn’t that a plus?

Even if you aren’t an introvert, simply ordering parts for your car, like the Nissan Skyline, is far easier and quick, than being physically present for the transaction. But some would argue, why do even that? Why not just get rid of your Skyline and get a newer model? Well, one thing that people hold very dear is a vehicle that has sentimental value attached to it.

If your car has passed down from a loved one, you will do everything in your power to restore it in its original condition. And the only way to do that is by purchasing high-quality genuine interior used parts. After all, you can’t trust the aftermarket kind and buying new parts can be impossible or involve a lot of hassle.

So, for those sentimental folks who want to restore their Nissan Skyline to its past glory, here is how you can make the most of your time:

Commonly Replaced Skyline Interior Parts with Used Options

When it comes to car interiors, there are some parts that get extra wear and tear. Naturally, any area within the car that gets in contact with you, or your car’s passengers, will have more wear.

Therefore, here is a list of all the interior parts that are commonly replaced, so you can keep an eye on them and have them replaced at the earliest convenience:

Seats

The seats on a Nissan Skyline, or any vehicle for that matter, experience wear and tear the most.

Perhaps you spilled some coffee, a child dropped some ice cream, or the keys got stuck in the seats. Any number of incidents can happen, which destroy car seats.

But, worry not, because Nissan Skyline seats are available at Atlas Auto in good condition. You can choose slightly used seats from similar Skyline models or from premium trims to give your car an upgrade.

Door Panels

The door panels, situated on the inside of the car door get exposed to a lot of abuse.

If your Nissan Skyline is an older model, chances are that it has worn out so much that it is beyond repair. Luckily, you can buy used door panels and replace your old ones to get rid of any scratches, dents, or discolorations.

Dashboard

Over the course of time, due to exposure to the sun and its heat, dashboards crack and sometimes get disfigured.

This issue is common in older vehicles that have been on the road for far too long.

But the good news is that you can change the entire dashboard of your Nissan Skyline and replace it with a similar one from another Skyline.

However, you must make sure that the dashboard you buy is compatible with your particular model. Otherwise, you’d be doing nothing but wasting money.

Carpeting

The carpeting inside a vehicle isn’t immune to dirt, stains, or damage.

In fact, it’s one of the first to get spoilt, and naturally the first item to require a replacement in a vehicle’s interior.

However, the good thing about carpets is that you can buy a replacement for a fraction of the cost of a new one.

You can get used carpeting in good condition from a car wrecker near you. And if you are lucky, you can get a better version from a higher-level Skyline trim.

Trim Pieces and Accents

Some cosmetic items, like A-pillar covers, center console accents, wood trims, indicator levers, back-view mirror, and cupholders are the kind of things that you can replace in one-go.

They are not that important or necessary, but if you want to restore your Nissan Skyline to its original aesthetic, why not change as many things as you can? You can buy all the damaged and missing parts from the interior to make your car whole again.

Benefits of Using Quality Used Parts for Your Skyline’s Interior

By now you have heard so many things about used car parts for your Skyline, that you must be wondering: What’s the big deal about used parts? Why should you prefer them over new ones?

Here is why:

Cost Savings

Used car parts cost a lot less than new interior parts and that’s the beauty of these components.

If you ask the price of brand-new parts and then ask a wrecker for used ones, you’ll understand what we mean. There is no comparison between their price, but you sure do get the same quality.

Finding Specific Parts

There are some old and rare vehicles whose parts aren’t easily available in the market. If you try to find new ones for them, you’ll either turn back disappointed or would have to wait long for the parts to be arranged.

However, places that sell used parts often have a good stockpile of rare and old components. You can contact them and find the specific part you are looking for almost immediately.

Preserving Originality

The best way to preserve the genuineness of your Nissan Skyline is by replacing parts from another Skyline.

Some people buy dummy vehicles for this purpose, but that costs a lot of money. Instead, you can call a wrecker and have original and high-quality parts arranged within hours.

Finding the Perfect Parts at the Junkyard

Now that you have decided purchasing your Nissan Skyline’s parts from the wreckers, it is time to learn how you’ll find the perfect part for your vehicle.

• The first thing you ought to do is find the part number on your Skyline’s damaged component.
• Compare that number with the replacement part along with your car’s model and year.
• Et voila! You will have no trouble finding parts after you have done this.

Car wreckers use grading systems which tell you the quality and condition of the part. Make sure you are getting the best one.

Once you have the part in your hand, inspect it thoroughly before paying any money.

Adding Your Personal Touch

When buying used parts, you have the opportunity to give your car a new look. You can add a personalised touch to your vehicle in a budget-friendly way to make it distinguishable and even more yours.

Safety Considerations

Always clean and sanitize the used parts you buy before installing them. You don’t know what they have been through, so just be safe.

If you are unsure about installing and replacing a particular component, consult a professional. Never try to jerry-rig things as they can be hazardous to your health.