Essential Tire Care Tips for Rainy Weather

Spring has arrived, and while we welcome the beautiful blooms and warmer weather, April showers are a reality.. Here are some essential rain-safe driving tips to keep you in control during downpours, with a special focus on tire care:

Tire Check:

Tread Depth: Ensure your tires have at least 3/16 inches of tread depth (check your owner's manual for specific recommendations for your vehicle). The deeper the grooves, the better the water can be channeled away, providing better grip on wet roads.
Don't rely solely on the "penny test". While it can be a quick indicator, tire wear isn't always uniform across the tread.
Visually inspect your tires for any cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. These signs indicate potential tire damage and warrant immediate replacement.

Tire Maintenance:

Proper Inflation: 

Maintain the recommended tire pressure as specified in your owner's manual or on the sticker inside the driver's door jamb. Underinflated tires not only decrease fuel efficiency but also reduce traction, especially in wet conditions. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips.
Tire Rotation: Regularly rotate your tires according to the manufacturer's recommendations (typically every 5,000 to 6,000 miles). This ensures even wear and extends the life of your tires.

Additional Tips:

Consider All-Season Tires: If you live in an area that experiences all four seasons, consider investing in all-season tires that offer a good balance of performance in various weather conditions, including rain and light snow.
Ask our service advisors! Our team of experts at [Dealership Name] is happy to answer any questions you have about tire care and recommend the right tires for your specific vehicle and driving needs.

Remember, even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. We encourage you to be extra cautious during rainy weather and prioritize your safety above all else. Stay safe this spring season!

Hit the Road in Style With These Must-Haves Accessories

As a car dealer, we understand the excitement and anticipation that comes with planning a road trip. The stories customers tell are not only fascinating but give us insight as to what you will need on the road.

Being prepared can make all the difference between a smooth, enjoyable journey and a stressful one. That's why we've compiled a list of must-have car accessories to enhance your next adventure:

Essentials for Safety and Preparedness:

• Emergency Kit: This should include essentials like jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and flares. Consider adding a roadside assistance plan for added peace of mind.

• Road Atlas or GPS: While GPS navigation is readily available on smartphones, having a physical backup ensures you're never without directions, especially in areas with limited cell service.

• Car Phone Charger: A reliable car charger is crucial for keeping your phone powered on for navigation, entertainment, and emergencies. Consider a car charger with multiple USB ports to keep multiple devices charged. You should also consider an external battery that can charge devices without having to rely on electricity or the car itself.

Enhancing Comfort and Convenience:

• Seat Gap Organizer: This handy accessory prevents items like phones, keys, and wallets from falling into the abyss between your seat and the center console.

• Car Phone Mount: A phone mount allows you to safely and conveniently use your phone for GPS navigation, hands-free calling, and music streaming while keeping your eyes on the road.

• Cooler: A small cooler is a great way to keep drinks and snacks cold on long journeys, especially if you're traveling with children or pets.

• Sunshades: Window sunshades help keep your car cool and protect passengers from harmful UV rays, especially important for long drives during the summer months.

Keeping Passengers Entertained:

• Headrest Tablets or Portable DVD Players: These keep passengers, especially children, entertained throughout the trip.

• Car Games and Activities: Pack some classic car games, travel journals, or activity books to keep everyone engaged and prevent boredom on long stretches of road.

Bonus Tip:

Consider investing in a cargo bag or roof rack if you're anticipating extra luggage or gear for your trip. This will help you maximize space and keep your car organized.

Remember: While these accessories can add comfort and convenience to your road trip, the most important element is ensuring your car is in top shape. Schedule a pre-trip inspection at your dealership to ensure your vehicle is up-to-date on maintenance and ready for the adventure ahead.

By having the right car accessories and ensuring your car is in good condition, you can set yourself up for a safe, enjoyable, and memorable road trip!

Don't Get Fooled! About Common Car Myths

While pranks and laughter are the order of the day, the world of cars isn't immune to its share of myths and misconceptions. Today, we'll separate fact from fiction and debunk some common car myths that might have you fooled.

Myth #1: Turning off your car at a red light saves gas.

Fact: Modern cars with fuel injection systems actually use slightly more gas when restarting compared to idling for short periods. However, excessive idling (over 2 minutes) is still wasteful and should be avoided.

Myth #2: You can roll down your windows to cool down your car faster than using the AC.

Fact: While it might seem logical, rolling down windows creates drag, reducing fuel efficiency and slowing down the cooling process. Using your air conditioning, especially on high for a few minutes, is actually faster and more efficient.

Myth #3: Putting a potato in your tailpipe will muffle your exhaust sound.

Fact: Not only is this incredibly dangerous (it can block exhaust fumes and cause carbon monoxide poisoning), it's also completely ineffective. Modifying your exhaust system for sound is illegal in most areas and can damage your car. 

Myth #4: Premium gas gives your car more horsepower.

Fact: In most cases, premium gas is not necessary for everyday driving. It's designed for high-performance engines that require higher octane ratings. Using premium gas in a car designed for regular gas won't provide any additional benefits.

Myth #5: A clean car is more fuel-efficient.

Fact: A dirty car with excessive drag (like mud or grime) can slightly decrease fuel efficiency. However, regular car washes won't significantly impact your gas mileage.

Myth #6: You should warm up your car before driving on cold days.

Fact: Modern fuel-injected engines are designed to warm up quickly while driving. Idling for long periods is unnecessary and can waste gas and contribute to pollution. It's better to start your car and drive gently for a few minutes until it reaches operating temperature.

Myth #8: All transmission fluids are the same.

Fact: Different car models require specific transmission fluids. Using the wrong type of fluid can damage your transmission. Always consult your owner's manual or a qualified mechanic for the correct transmission fluid for your car.

Myth #9: Filling your gas tank in the morning gets you more gas.

Fact: Gas is stored underground in tanks with consistent temperatures, regardless of the time of day. The pump dispenses gas at the same density no matter when you fill up.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this article has helped clear up some common car myths and ensure you're taking proper care of your vehicle. Remember, when it comes to car advice, always consult your owner's manual or a trusted mechanic for accurate information. Happy April Fools' Day, and drive safe!

Loose Sleep Over The Time Change Not Your Safety

As we "spring forward" with Daylight Saving Time, it's also a perfect time to make sure your rides remains smooth with a suspension check-up.

Just like the changing seasons, your car's suspension system endures constant wear and tear from navigating various road conditions. Similar to how spring brings renewal, a suspension check-up can renew the performance and comfort of your car.

Why a spring suspension check-up is important:

Spring brings unpredictable weather: From potholes hidden under melting snow to unexpected rain showers, spring roads can be harsh on your suspension.

A check-up ensures your car can handle these challenges safely and comfortably. Winter's toll on your car: Harsh winter conditions can put increased stress on your suspension components, leading to wear and tear.

Addressing these issues early prevents further damage and costly repairs later. Improved driving experience: A well-maintained suspension system translates to smoother handling, better cornering, and a more comfortable ride – perfect for spring road trips and adventures.

• Improved Handling and Safety: A well-maintained suspension system ensures optimal handling, allowing you to better control your vehicle and navigate unexpected road conditions safely.

• Enhanced Comfort: Worn-out suspension components can lead to a bumpy and uncomfortable ride. A check-up can identify and address these issues, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable driving experience.
  
  Extended Tire Life: A properly functioning suspension minimizes uneven tire wear, saving you money on replacements in the long run.
  
  Peace of Mind: Knowing your car's suspension is in good condition provides peace of mind on the road, especially during unpredictable spring weather conditions.

Don't wait until you hit a pothole to find out your suspension needs work. you're already wide awake from losing an hour of sleep! Make the most of that extra-early morning energy by scheduling a suspension check-up and ensure a smooth, safe ride all season long.

In the world of cars, there's a risky dance we all play it's called the Fuel Level Limbo. How low can you go with your fuel gauge before your car decides it's had enough of your shenanigans?;

The Sediment Shuffle: Dancing with Dirt

First up in our limbo line is the sediment shuffle. You see, your fuel tank isn't a pristine oasis. It's more like a mini desert, complete with its own set of buried treasures, sediment and gunk. Go too low on fuel, and your car starts picking up this dance floor debris, leading to a not-so-funky clog in your fuel system.

The Pump Plunge: A Drying Dilemma

The fuel pump loves a good swim. But in the Fuel level limbo, it's like being at a pool party with no water. Running on low fuel means the pump gets no cooling or lubrication, think of it as trying to dance in quicksand. Spoiler alert: it doesn't end well for the pump

The Gauge Guessing Game: Fuel Forecasting Fiascos

Ever play the guessing game with your fuel gauge? Trying to predict exactly how many miles you can push before your car sputters to a stop is like trying to forecast the weather with a magic 8-ball. Spoiler, Outlook not so good

Stranded Salsa: The No-Gas Tango

There's nothing like the dance of desperation when you're stranded on the side of the road. It's a unique mix of the regret-rumba and the frustration-flamenco. Trust me, roadside assistance doesn't appreciate impromptu dance performances

The Wallet Waltz: Fuel Efficiency and Your Finances

Dancing on the edge of an empty tank isn't just risky; it's also a waltz with your wallet. Consistently running low can mean more trips to the mechanic, and those visits can have more zeroes on the bill than you'd like.

Keeping the Tank Tango at Bay

So, what's the moral of our Fuel Level Limbo story? Keep that fuel dance above the danger line. It's cheaper, safer, and far less embarrassing than doing the roadside stranded salsa. Happy driving, and may your fuel gauge always be a limbo stick that's set just right!

The Best Ways To Keep Your Car Smelling Like New Your Car

The smell of a new car is one of the best things in the world. It's like getting a fresh start, every time you get in. But what can you do to make sure your car smells like new for as long as possible? Here are four tips that will help keep your car smelling great.

1. Don't leave food in your car.

This one seems like a no-brainer, but it's worth repeating. Whenever you eat in your car, be sure to throw away any wrappers or leftover food. Otherwise, you're just inviting critters and bacteria to come in and make themselves at home.

2. Vacuum the seats and carpets often

Even if you don't eat in your car, dirt and dust can build up on the seats and carpets. Vacuuming regularly will help to remove these particles and keep your car smelling fresh.

3. Use a fabric freshener to keep the upholstery smelling good

There are a variety of fabric fresheners on the market, both in spray and gel form. These can help to keep the upholstery in your car smelling pleasant.

4. Spray a deodorizer in the car every week or so to keep it smelling fresh.

There are products that are designed to produce the new car smell. These can be found at most auto parts stores and can help keep your car smelling like new.

These are just the basics, but to really get rid of tough odors like smoke, it's going to take a bit more work. Deodorizers and fabric sprays may temporarily cover up smells, but they don’t actually remove them. If you’re looking for a more long-term solution, try an ozone generator.

An ozone generator can also be used to remove smoke odors from your car. They work by producing ozone molecules which attach to and break down the particles that cause odors. Ozone generators can be purchased online or at some home improvement stores.

Top Car Accessories Every Owner Should Try

As a car owner, you are constantly looking for ways to improve your driving experience and make your car more comfortable and efficient. One way to do this is to invest in some top accessories that can help you get the most out of your car. Here are some of the best accessories every car owner should try:

Portable Battery Charger & Jumper Box

If you are someone who is always on the go, a portable battery charger and jumper box is an absolute must. This handy accessory will allow you to charge your car battery on the go, so you never have to worry about being stranded with a dead battery. It is also great for jump starting your car if it ever dies while you are out and about.

Mirror Dash Cam

A mirror dash cam is a great way to improve your safety while driving. It allows you to see what is happening behind you without taking your eyes off the road. There are models that will record both the front and rear view , so you can get a complete picture of what is going on around you. This can be invaluable evidence if you are ever in an accident. Unfortunately there are people who intentionally cause accidents so that they can make an insurance claim. A dashboard camera will help you prove that you were not at fault if this ever happens to you.

Cigarette Lighter Splitter

If you are constantly using your cigarette lighter to charge your phone or power other devices, then a cigarette lighter splitter is a must. This will allow you to plug in multiple devices at once without having to unplug something else. This can be really useful if you are using your navigation system and need to keep your phone charged at the same time.

Frost Guard Windshield Mats

If you live in an area where it gets cold in the winter, then you know how frustrating it is to scrape ice off your windshield. Frost guard windshield mats are a great way to keep your windshield clear and prevent ice from building up. You can find mats that fit over your entire windshield or just the part that gets iced over. Some models come with mirror pockets so that you protect those from frost and snow build up

OBD Scanner Tool

An OBD scanner tool is a must for any car owner. It allows you to read the diagnostic codes that are stored in your car’s computer. This can be really helpful if you are trying to figure out why your check engine light is on. You can also use it to clear codes and reset your engine light if it comes on unnecessarily. Look for ones that have a phone app so that you can read the codes on your phone.

Remote Starter Phone App

If you have a remote starter, then you know how convenient it is to be able to start your car from inside your house. But what if you could start your car from anywhere? With a remote starter phone app, you can do just that. Many features include allowing others to use your vehicle as long as they have the phone app. This can be great for when your spouse or kids need to use the car but you are not home. Just make sure to set up some limits so that you don’t run up your car’s mileage too much.

These are only a few of the great accessories available to car owners. With so many options out there, it is easy to find something that will improve your driving experience. So don’t wait, start shopping for some new accessories today. Your car will thank you for it. Now that you have a list of wish list accessories it might be time to get a new car to put them in! After all, what better way to show off your new toys than in a stylish set of wheels?

Check out our latest models today and find the perfect one for you.

Can You Avoid The Nightmare?

You've waited so long. You finally saved up enough money to buy your dream car. You do your research, take test drives, and find the perfect one. The day finally arrives when you drive off the lot in your new car. You're on top of the world. But then, one day, your car is gone. It's been stolen. Your dream has become a nightmare. No one ever thinks it will happen to them. But every year, thousands of people have their cars stolen. And for many, the loss is more than just material - it's a devastating blow to their sense of security and well-being.

For victims of car theft, the experience can be traumatizing. Not only are they left without a means of transportation, but they also have to deal with the fallout from the crime. This can include everything from filing a police report to dealing with insurance claims.If you've been the victim of car theft, it's important to know that you're not alone. There are resources available to help you through this difficult time. And with a little effort, you can make sure that your car is returned to you safely

Most Stolen Cars Of 2021

According to a recent article from autoblog.com the most stolen cars of 2021 were.

1. Chevrolet pickup (full-size): 48,206 total thefts

2. Ford pickup (full-size): 47,999 total thefts

3. Honda Civic: 31,673 total thefts

4. Honda Accord: 30,274 total thefts

5. Toyota Camry: 17,270 total thefts

6. GMC pickup (full-size): 15,599 total thefts

7. Nissan Altima: 14,108 total thefts

8. Honda CR-V: 13,308 total thefts

9. Jeep Cherokee / Grand Cherokee: 13,210 total thefts

10. Toyota Corolla: 12,927 total thefts

 As you can see from the list above the most stolen cars are full-size pickup trucks followed by Honda Civic and Accord. Although these represent the most stolen vehicles it doesn't mean that these are the only ones being targeted. In fact, any car can be stolen regardless of make or model.

Always Lock Your Doors

This seems like common sense but you'd be surprised how many people don't do it. Always make sure to lock your doors, even if you're just running into the store for a quick errand. And don't leave your keys in the ignition - no matter how tempting it may be on a hot day.

Don't Leave Spare Keys In The Car

Another common mistake is leaving a spare key hidden in the car. This may seem like a good idea at the time, but it's just asking for trouble. If a thief finds your spare key, they now have easy access to your vehicle.

Install A Tracking Device With A Remote Kill Switch

If you're really concerned about your car being stolen, you can install a tracking device with a remote kill switch. This will allow you to track the location of your car if it's stolen, and even disable it if necessary. Typically they come with an app that you can use to track the location of your vehicle. Then remotely disable the car and notify the authorities who will then be able to apprehend the thief and return your vehicle.

Consider A Wheel Lock

A wheel lock is another good idea if you're worried about your car being stolen. This is a device that attaches to your wheel and makes it very difficult for a thief to drive away with your car. They're not 100% effective, but they can be a good deterrent.

Park In Well Lit Areas

Whenever possible, try to park in well lit areas and never leave packages or valuables in plain sight. Thieves often seek out easy targets of opportunity, so the less tempting your car is, the better. Although not full proof, putting valuables in the trunk is also a good i

How To Safely Remove Ice and Snow From Your Car

Winter can bring a variety of problems with your car – from icy windshields to frozen lock mechanisms. But one of the most common winter car troubles is having to clear away ice and snow, which can quickly become an annoying and potentially dangerous job. To make things easier we’ll provide you with some simple tips and tricks for safely removing ice and snow from your car.

Check Your Car’s Temperature

The first step in safely removing ice and snow is to make sure that your car is at the right temperature. Generally speaking, you don’t want the engine to be too hot or too cold; if it is too cold, any sudden change in heat could cause glass (including the windshield) to crack or shatter. So be sure to start your car up and let it sit idle until its temperature reaches a comfortable “warm-to-the-touch” level before attempting any removal attempts.

Start With The Windows

Once you have an acceptable temperature inside your car, it’s time to start removing that pesky layer of ice and snow! The best place to start is with the windows; this will allow you maximum visibility when driving once everything has been cleared away. Begin by scraping off any snow or ice build up on the exterior of each window using either a plastic or rubber scraper or even a credit card; then move on to clearing away frosty condensation from inside (for this, a cloth should do). Once you have removed as much as possible, turn on your defroster until all glass is completely cleared away. 

Use A Deicing Agent

If scraping alone doesn’t seem to cut it – especially if you are dealing with thick layers of frozen water – consider using a deicing agent like rock salt or even diluted rubbing alcohol (make sure not to use straight rubbing alcohol as this could damage paint jobs). Sprinkle these substances onto the problem areas on both the outside and inside of your windows (just remember not to get any of these agents on any part of your vehicle’s interior). Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting another scrape – this should help break up large chunks of ice into smaller pieces that can be more easily removed. 

Finish With A Cleaning Wipe Down

Once all visible snow/ice has been removed from both exterior AND interior surfaces, give everything one final wipe down using paper towel or newspaper – just make sure whatever material you are using does not contain any dyes/inks that could stain fabric surfaces like dashboard coverings or floor mats! This will ensure no dust remnants remain after completion and prevent interior surfaces from becoming wet due to any residual moisture. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can make short work of removing snow and ice from your car.

Little Mistakes That Can Lead To Big Car Repair Bills

Disclaimer: Nothing in this article should be taken as a replacement for following your owners manual or the advice of a certified mechanic. These tips are a culmination from various sources widely available on the internet.

As anyone who’s ever owned a car knows, they are a huge financial responsibility. Aside from the initial purchase price, there’s insurance, gasoline, and of course, repairs and maintenance.

While some car repairs are unavoidable, there are others that are totally avoidable if you take proper care of your vehicle. Here are a few of the most costly car repairs that are avoidable with some simple preventive maintenance.

Never Ignore The Check Engine Light

Ignoring the check engine can lead to major engine damage that could have easily been avoided had the problem been addressed immediately. There are many reasons the light comes on such as a loose gas cap, bad oxygen sensor, or failed catalytic converter.

Failing To Replace The Battery When Needed

Depending on the battery's condition, most last anywhere from three to five years. If you're still driving on the original battery that came with the car, chances are it needs to be replaced. Modern vehicles are full of electronic features that put a strain on the electrical system, and an old battery will struggle to keep up.

If your battery is drained, it will take longer for your starter to turn over. Your vehicle now draws more electricity, and the alternator kicks in to throw additional amps at the battery in order to recharge it. All those things drawing current can be affected by the spikes and lows over time.

It's easy to eliminate a lot of electrical problems by replacing the battery when needed

Not Maintaining Proper Fuel Level.

Electric fuel pumps are located in the fuel tank. Running the pump dry can damage it. The debris from the bottom of the tank will also get into the fuel filter and clog it. This will reduce fuel flow to the engine and cause all sorts of drivability problems.

If you allow the fuel level to constantly run lower than a quarter tank full, you run the risk of having  to replace the fuel pump sooner than necessary. It sounds weird but gasoline has a cooling effect on the fuel pump, and running low all the time could potentially shorten its lifespan

Unnecessary Transmission Flushes

If you know the history of your car, it may be okay to do transmission flushes just as your preventative maintenance suggests. However If you don't know the history and the car is running fine, then you might reconsider getting it done.

When you fill your car with new transmission fluid, it has specially designed detergent in it to keep a transmission clean. The issue is that it can break loose debris already present in the transmission resulting in a clogged filter. If the filter gets clogged, it will restrict fluid flow and cause all sorts of problems.

Not Using The Proper Tire Size

Whether it's a spare tire or just buying tires not rated for your vehicle, putting the wrong size tire on your car will cause problems. The spare tire is rated for a limited amount of miles and speed, so you should only use it in an emergency situation.

When you drive with mismatched tire sizes, it can cause the vehicle's differential to think that the smaller tires are slipping. It then tries to compensate by sending more power to the wheels, which can cause even more tire slippage and eventually lead to differential failure.

Kicking Ice & Sludge To The Curb

You may just do it without thinking but kicking ice and sludge off your car's bumper, fender and doors can cause cracks or damage to plastic moldings. Think about it this way. When the temperature gets below freezing plastic can become very brittle.

So if you're tempted to kick your bumper, Don't. It could easily crack and need to be replaced. The same goes for plastic moldings and door handles. If possible wait for warmer temperatures, spray it off with a high pressure water nozzle at a car wash or just gently use a soft bristle brush.