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Are Your Tires Feeling The Pressure

Why Checking Your Tire Pressure Is Important

Summer is a time for vacations and road trips, but before you hit the open road, make sure your car is ready for the journey. One of the most important things to check is your tire pressure.

Check your tire pressure before a long trip, because tires lose air over time. You need to maintain proper tire pressure year-round for safety and fuel efficiency. It’s not just about the distance you will be traveling, poor tire pressure can lead to accidents and result in poor fuel efficiency. Additionally, under-inflated tires can overheat and cause a blowout. This is especially dangerous at high speeds.

How to check your tire pressure

The best way to check your tire pressure is with a digital tire pressure gauge. You can find these at most auto parts stores. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

To check your tire pressure:

  1. Remove the cap from the tire valve.

  2. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve.

  3. Read the pressure on the gauge.

  4. If the pressure is low, use a air pump to add air to the tire until it reaches the recommend pressure according to the tires specifications.

  5. Replace the cap on the valve

Driving with a flat tire is dangerous for a number of reasons. When you drive on a flat tire, the car will pull to one side. This can make it difficult to control the car, and can lead to accidents. In addition, if you have a blowout while driving, you may lose control of the car and crash.

Check your spare tire before you go on a trip. If you have a flat tire and need to use your spare, you don't want to find out that it is also flat. You may think that small spare tire is just for getting you to the nearest service station, but it can actually be used for a long distance if you drive slowly. If you have a flat tire, replace it as soon as possible. Driving on a flat tire can damage the wheel and the tire. What was originally just a flat tire could cause you to need a a new rim.

How to change a tire?

Most people don't know how to change a tire, which is an essential skill for every driver. If you're lucky enough never to have a flat tire on the road, it's still wise to learn this simple process. It will take just minutes and could help save your life someday. But if you do get that dreaded call from your someone you know, here's what you need to do.

First, find a safe place to pull over and turn on your hazard lights. If you're on the shoulder of a busy highway, it's best to move your car as far off the road as possible. Once you're safely parked, engage your parking brake.

Next, locate your jack and spare tire. Your car's owner's manual will show you where these are located. Before you do anything else, loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire using the wrench. You don't need to remove them completely, just loosen them enough so they'll be easy to remove when the time comes.

Now it's time to jack up your car. Place the jack under the frame of your car (consult your owner's manual for the best location), and turn the crank to lift the tire off the ground. Once the tire is high enough, remove the lug nuts and pull the tire off.

Now it's time to put on the spare. Put the tire on the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts as much as possible. Lower the car to the ground and finish tightening the lug nuts with the wrench.

Once the tire is changed, be sure to drive slowly and carefully to your destination. You don't want to damage your spare tire by driving too fast.

When should I get new tires?

Your tires are a major safety consideration for your vehicle. They help you steer and stop, keep the car on the road in wet weather, and provide a comfortable ride. Tires don't last forever, though. The rubber gets hard and brittle with age and the tread wears down, making it more difficult to stop and less effective in wet weather.

How often you need new tires depends on several factors, including: How you drive - Hard acceleration, braking, and cornering can all shorten the life of your tires

  • The roads you drive on - Paved roads are easier on tires than gravel or dirt roads

  • The climate you live in - Extreme heat or cold can also shorten tire life

  • How well you maintain your tires - Regularly checking and inflating your tires to the proper pressure can help extend their life

Did you know that underinflated tires can decrease your gas mileage? According to this study by the Office of ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

"Keeping automobile tires inflated to their recommended pressure saves fuel, according to an Oak Ridge National Laboratory study. A 2009 Toyota Corolla was tested with all four tires at the recommended pressure (black line), then at 75% of the recommended pressure (green line), and again at 50% of the recommended pressure (blue line). With all four tires at 75% of the recommended pressure, a vehicle’s fuel economy is about 2-3% lower. Vehicles with tires inflated at 50% of the recommended pressure used 5–10% more fuel. It should be noted that underinflated tires not only waste fuel but also pose serious safety risks."

When should I rotate my tires?

Your car's tires wear down unevenly, so it's important to rotate them every few thousand miles. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. However, this varies depending on the type of driving you do and the type of tire you have. Consult your owner's manual or a automotive technician for more specific

As you can see, there are many reasons you should maintain the proper tire pressure, know how to change a flat tire and when getting new tires is necessary. Tire maintenance should be an essential part of your vehicle ownership routine so that you don't find yourself stranded on the side of the road without a spare or any idea what to do next!

You Can't Drive From The 3rd Row..

But Having One Sure Is Nice!

Owning a vehicle with a third row seat can be an incredibly desirable option for families and individuals alike. Popular vehicles such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Chevrolet Suburban, and Ford Explorer all offer great options when it comes to seating arrangements with up to 8 passengers or even more if you opt for bench seating.

 

Families love the convenience of being able to transport all their kids at once without having to cram them in a smaller vehicle, while individuals appreciate the flexibility that a third row seat provides them when it comes to hauling extra cargo in their trunk or taking friends along on road trips.


The biggest advantage that a third row seat offers is the sheer amount of space it provides for storage. You can simply fold down the third row seat and load up all your bags without fear of running out of space. This also makes grocery shopping easier as well since you can use the extra room for carrying larger items like cases of water or boxes of cereal with ease.

Another big benefit of owning a vehicle with a third row seat is that it adds another layer of comfort when traveling long distances. The extra legroom allows passengers to stretch out during those seemingly endless road trips without having anyone sitting immediately behind them kicking their seats—which is always welcome news! Additionally, many vehicles with third row seats come equipped with air conditioning vents in the rear so everyone will stay comfortable during those hot summer months too.


In short, investing in a cars with 3rd row seating provide practicality and convenience not just for large families but also those who value comfort and space in their cars. If you're looking for added flexibility and storage options then these might just be perfect choices for you!

Do You Need A Car With More Room?

It can be tough to find the perfect car that fits your needs and your budget. We carry a variety used cars including those with 3rd row seating. If we don't have it we can find it for you.

Contact us today so we can help you get in the car you've been looking for

3 Key Things To Know Before You Buy A Car

What Is A Good Deal On A Car

Everyone wants to get the best deal on a car they can, It's human nature and makes financial sense. However, getting that deal isn't always up to the car dealership. Your budget, credit score and trade-in value all play significant factors in what you actually pay for your car.

Know Your Budget

Most people think a budget is what you can afford monthly, but it also determines what cars and the features will have. A car that you like may have several trim levels with different features, but they will come at a higher price. So know your budget and research cars and trim levels that fit in it.

Know Your Must Haves

If you've done your research then you probably have an idea of what you're looking for. But It's important to know your must-haves in a vehicle. For some people, it might be four-wheel drive or a sunroof, but for others, it might be heated seats and remote start.


Know Your Can Do With Outs

After you know your must haves, you can start looking at what you can do without. It all ties back into your budget and what you're willing to spend. If you're not worried about having the latest and greatest features, then you can probably get by with a base model vehicle.


With your budget, must have, and do with outs in mind, head to a dealership and have a conversation with the salesperson. They will be able to guide you to a vehicle that fits your needs best. You will then have a better understanding of what a good deal on a car looks like.

Are You Ready To Buy Your Next Used Car?

Buying a car can be stressful – but it doesn't have to be. Our team will work with you every step of the way to make sure the process goes smoothly. Call us today to get started.

Cars Get Cold Too

How To Check Your Antifreeze

It may not cross most people's minds, but checking your car's antifreeze protection level is an important part of regular maintenance. Anti-freeze helps protect your car from damage caused by cold weather, and keeping it at the proper level could save you from costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will show you how to check your car's antifreeze protection level and what to do if it needs to be adjusted.

What You Need

Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:

  • An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.

  • Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.

  • Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.


Step 1: Locate The Reservoir

The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top (as seen in Figure 1). There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding! 

Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze

Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top (Figure 2). Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures (see Table 1 below). Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with paper towel or rag. 


Step 3: Storing The Tester

After testing, take a ziplock bag and store your anti-freeze tester in it until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don't forget - always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!   


Checking your car's antifreeze protection level doesn't have to be difficult or complicated; with these simple steps anyone can do it themselves! With regular testing every few months, you'll know exactly how well protected against extreme cold temperatures your vehicle really is - potentially saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs down the line!


Can Your Car Wax Help Keep The Value Of Your Car

To Wax Or Not To Wax?

It's no secret that keeping your car looking good can help to maintain its value. But what many people don't know is that there are a lot of things you can do to keep your car looking great - and some of them are easy and inexpensive! One example is car waxing.

1. The benefits of car waxing

Waxing your car is one of the best ways to protect its finish and keep it looking new. It creates a barrier between your car’s paint and the elements, which can cause fading, scratching, and other damage. Waxing also makes it easier to clean your car, since the wax forms a protective layer that dirt and dust can

2. The costs of car waxing

The costs of car waxing vary depending on the type of wax and the amount you need. However, it is generally a very affordable way to protect your car’s finish.

3. How to wax your car properly

If you're looking to get the most out of your car wax, follow these steps:

  • Make sure your car is clean. The wax will adhere better to a clean surface, and it will be easier to remove any residual wax when you're finished.

  • Apply the wax in a thin layer. Too much wax can actually end up doing more harm than good, since it can obscure your car's paint job and make it difficult to polish later on.

  • Work in small sections. It's best to apply the wax using a circular motion, and don't forget the edges!

  • Buff off the wax with a soft cloth. Be sure to remove

4. What are the types of waxes available?

There are a few different types of car waxes on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks:

  • Spray-On Waxes: These waxes are easy to apply and usually don’t require any buffing. However, they don’t offer as much protection as other types of waxes and can be prone to fading.

  • Paste Waxes: More durable than spray-on waxes, and they usually provide better protection against scratches and fading. However, they can be difficult to apply and require a lot of elbow grease.

  • Liquid Waxes: Liquid waxes are the most popular type of car wax. They’re easy to apply, and most come with a buffing cloth.

  • Carnauba Wax: Carnauba wax is the most durable type of car wax and offers the best protection against scratches and fading. It’s also the most expensive type of wax.

  • Ceramic Wax: A newer type of car wax that’s said to offer even better protection than Carnauba wax. However, it’s also more expensive.

4. How to care for your car's finish without using any products at all

  • If you're not interested in using car wax, there are a few other things you can do to protect your car's finish and keep it looking new:

  • Park in the shade. The sun can cause your car's paint to fade over time.

  • Wash your car regularly. Dirt and dust can scratch your car's paintjob

If you're still unsure about whether or not car waxing is worth the investment, it might be helpful to consult a professional. They can help determine if waxing your car will be an effective way to keep its value and maintain its shine over time.

 

 

Front Wheel Drive VS. AWD What is the Difference

What is the difference between front wheel drive and all wheel drive?

When you are looking for a new car, one of the decisions you have to make is whether to get a front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. Both options have their pros and cons, so which one should you choose? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each option:

How Do Front Wheel Drives Cars Work

Front wheel drive cars are powered by the front wheels, while the back wheels simply rotate and provide traction. This is different from rear wheel drive cars, which are powered by the back wheels. Front wheel drive cars are more stable and easier to control than rear wheel drive cars, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

Another way to explain it would be to say that a front wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the front wheels, while a rear wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the back wheels.

What are the pros of front wheel drive vehicles

  • Front wheel drive vehicles are better for fuel economy because only the front wheels are used to power the car. This means that less power is needed, and you will save on gas money.

  • Rear wheel drive vehicles are better for getting through tough terrain and handling curves. The weight of the engine is at the back of the car, which gives it more stability when driving on winding roads or in slippery conditions.

What are the cons of front wheel drive vehicles

Front wheel drive vehicles can sometimes be less stable than all wheel drive vehicles, especially when cornering or braking. This is because the weight of the engine is pushing down on the front wheels, which can cause them to lose traction. Additionally, front wheel drive vehicles can be more difficult to control in icy or snowy conditions.

How does all wheel drive work?

All wheel drive is a system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This can help improve traction and handling in slippery or challenging conditions. AWD systems vary in complexity, with some relying on sensors to detect when the car needs more traction and distributing power accordingly. Others use a center differential to split the power between the front and rear wheels.

Regardless of the system in use, all wheel drive can provide a safer and more sure-footed driving experience. If you're looking for a car that can handle any condition, consider an all wheel drive model.

What are the pros of all wheel drive vehicles

All wheel drive vehicles are better in slippery conditions because all four wheels are used to power the car. This gives you more traction and prevents you from slipping and sliding. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, an AWD car is a better option. They also provide more stability and control than FWD cars when driving on slick surfaces.

What are the con's of an all wheel drive car?

All wheel drive cars can be more expensive than front wheel drive cars. They also require more maintenance, as all of the components need to be working properly in order to distribute power evenly. AWD cars can also be less fuel-efficient than FWD cars, and they take up more space on the road.

So Which Type Of Car Car Should I Get?

That’s a question that can only be answered by you. Consider the pros and cons of both front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles to see which option would be best for your needs. If you live in an area with lots of icy or snowy conditions, an all wheel drive vehicle might be a better option. But if you live in a warmer climate and don’t need the extra traction, a front wheel drive vehicle could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!