Readying the Car for the College bound

It’s an emotional time for many as they prepare for the end of their kids’ final summer at home from high school. This time they’re off to college, and that means they’re not just out for the day, they’re gone for the semester or even the entire school year. We understand it’s hard to lose them, but it’s important that we get them as ready as possible to face the challenges ahead, starting with prepping the car.

First, make sure they have their insurance, license and registration.

They haven’t been driving long, and may forget this otherwise basic requirement of drivers. Remind them to keep them in the glove compartment at all times, and store them in a way they can’t get wet or damaged.

Second, take the car to the dealership for a checkup.

They may have enjoyed using the car over the summer break, and that may have taken a toll on the car’s engine, tires, fluid levels and more. Before you let them drive off to college in that car, get the experts to perform a full check on it and get everything up to scratch. If nothing else, it’ll help give you peace of mind.

Third, instill a maintenance/cleaning schedule.

While the car is getting checked, ask the dealership to help furnish your son/daughter with the basic maintenance information that they need for the car model they’re driving. An expert mechanic there can instruct him/her on what to do weekly, monthly and annually to keep everything in working order. Furthermore, you can remind them of a proper daily and weekly cleaning schedule --- empty the trash every day, vacuum every week, take a trip to the car wash every two weeks. You know best, so make sure they do, too!

Fourth and finally, do some research into the local facilities at their college destination.

Your local dealership is always the best place to get car issues resolved, but if your child is away at college with the car, and has a serious problem, they may not be able to get the car back. In that case, you should scout out the area by looking online for reputable outlets for car repair, maintenance and other services like washing/detailing the car. Try to find an approved center that specializes in the brand/marque that you’re driving.

None of this makes the separation easier, but it should at least give you a little assurance that your child is safe on the road and ready for anything that could happen. It’s a scary world out there, let’s make sure our kids are ready for it.

Why you should stick to the dealership for your car needs

We are often told that the best think about a market system is that it gives us, the consumers, choice. This is certainly true, and will make our next message a little strange to hear. When it comes to car repair, however, you can’t beat the dealership. In this article, we’ll tell you the main reasons for this:

1. Market forces make the dealerships competitive

We are not advocating a monopoly. Competition out there means that dealerships are stronger than ever, offering high-quality services at affordable rates. The existence of competitors means you can be sure you aren’t being given a bad deal.

2. The dealership knows your car best

The dealership that sold you the car know it inside out. Because most dealerships specialize in a particular marque or manufacturer, the mechanics there have received dedicated training to perform maintenance and repairs on that specific vehicle. Ordinary mechanics may call themselves a “Jack of all trades” but they are also, commonly, masters of none. Your dealership has the tools, the right parts, and, more importantly, the know-how.

3. The dealership knows you

Going back to the dealership means you build a closer working relationship with them. They know you, they know your car, and how you use it. Over time you can build a rapport with the staff there, and enjoy even more benefits and gain more direct access to services and advice. Customer loyalty has many advantages.

4. Peace of mind

A dealership comes with a brand name, and thus a higher standard to maintain. Should a dealership wish to continue displaying certain marques, accreditations and certifications of standards, then they have to do everything properly and by the book. This means you won’t have to worry about a mechanic cutting corners, using the wrong parts to save time, or being unable to get hold of the skills needed to get the job done right.

5. Comprehensive services

A dealership isn’t just a sales floor like in the past. Dealers now offer comprehensive services to their customers, including car finance, repairs, washing/detailing and more. The local dealership is truly a one-stop shop for your auto needs. All of this means less stress for you.

Shed your previous notions of what a car dealership is like, and come see for yourself. Check out what’s in your local area that matches your car type, and start enjoying the benefits today.

Reasons you should lease your next Chrysler

 

You may believe that leasing seems a strange option when it comes to a car for everyday use. “Isn’t it cheaper just to buy it if you’re going to use it all the time?” The game has changed when it comes to car leases, it’s no longer a day-to-day deal. For some, leasing may be a better option than buying. Sure, some will always want to buy, and that’ll work for them, but below are the best reasons we can give you to consider leasing instead.

1. Your car is a depreciating asset

As soon as you drive a car off the lot, it has lost a good deal of its monetary value. If you plan to have the car just for a year or two before switching, why buy? If you lease for up to three years, you can be sure that any issues with the car (if any) are covered by the warranty agreement, something that you won’t have if you buy in the long term.

2. Spread the cost

If you have a good income, but not a lot of savings, then a lease is a good option because you can pay smaller, regular amounts instead of larger lump sums. Spreading the cost into monthly payments makes it easier to manage.

3. Always have the latest models

Once your lease cycle is up, you can trade the car in for the latest model. This means you can stay at the forefront of new technology and features without adding more stress to your bank balance. What’s more, always being in a new car is a great confidence booster.

4. Less paperwork

Leasing is easier than buying. It presents a whole new dynamic to dealerships, who can now win repeat business in a faster turnaround time than they could with car sales. This means the process is made simpler, too.

5. Fewer maintenance problems

Because you have the latest models, loaded with the newest gear and newest parts, then the risk of experiencing a breakdown is much lower. This is another saving in the long run as you can avoid being hit by expensive repair bills.

If any of this sounds like it would benefit you in particular then consider leasing your next car instead of buying. It might just be the smartest decision you ever make.

Post Summer Car Maintenance

Thermometer readings are dropping, the sunscreen is being put away, the phrase “back to school” is emerging more and more wherever you look. All of this can only mean one thing --- the summer is ending. If the heat is not your friend, you may be heaving a sigh of relief, but don’t think that your problems are done. Another member of your family that has experienced a great deal during the sweltering summer months is your car. Here are some important maintenance tips to check on after the summer is done.

1. Fluid Levels

We all know that water evaporates as it reaches boiling point, but how do we forget that other fluids essential to our car can also evaporate more rapidly in the summer heat? Lift the hood and take a look – check the levels of coolant and battery fluid. The battery is especially important because the water in the mixture evaporates and can expose the lead plates, which come winter will mean you don’t even have enough juice to get started.

2. Battery life

While you’re checking the fluid levels of your battery, look at the terminals as well for corrosion. Your long summer road trip will have brought extra vibration to the battery which can impact its life. If anything looks amiss, have the dealership mechanics check it for you, and get the issue dealt with quickly before it gets worse.

3. Tire Tread

Higher temperatures outside mean greater air pressure inside your tires, forcing them to ride on less of the tire’s total surface area. The heat also makes your tires dry out, which exacerbates strains on them further. You may follow a regular annual schedule for tire checks and changes, but consider moving that schedule up after a strenuous hot summer.

4. Steering and Braking --- The Works

Extreme heat negatively impacts a lot in your car, not just the fluid levels and tire tread. Pay close attention while driving and see if the steering or braking feels off in any way. If it does, you should take in to your dealership to get it checked and put right. It’s not only the ice and snow that affects your cars “mood” but also the summer’s high temperatures.

5. Oil Change

Maintaining proper engine lubrication through the summer is challenge, and many overlook the extra needs of the car’s engine during that time. Many of the newest oil products mean you don’t need to switch viscosity between the seasons, which is convenient, but the problem of keeping up with regular oil changes hasn’t gone anywhere. However recently you did a check and/or change of your oil before or during the summer, check it again as the season winds down.

Follow these tips and stay safe this fall. Don’t forget, if you are uncertain of any maintenance problems, take your car to the dealership and let the experts look.

2019 Camaro

The Chevrolet Camaro is a legendary American muscle car; an iconic piece of engineering. Good on the street or track, this high-end car never fails to draw envious eyes wherever it goes. The 2019 Camaro comes with improvements on the previous model, and in this piece, we’ll look at all the reasons you should make Camaro your first choice for a new car this year.

 

1. Improvements and High Standards
The 2019 model comes with an updated front and rear styling, giving it a cutting-edge look without losing any of the classic allure that has consistently made this car the icon that it is. In addition, there’s a brand-new infotainment system to replace MyLink. Many other great features come as standard: wi-fi hotspot, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, new touchscreen interface, emergency comms system, adjustable driving modes and more.

2. Incredible Performance

The base model comes with a 4-cylinder engine that offers up to 275hp with 295lb-ft of torque. Not only will it get you from zero to sixty in less than 6 seconds, but will even give you gas mileage of 31mpg on the highway. If you need more power, the boosted V6 engine raises the pony power to 385hp but still gives you 28mpg. The V8 will take it to 450hp. What’s more, the Camaro doesn’t just look like a race car, its precision handling make it handle like one, too. Packing in performance and practicality is not a common feature on this type of high-end model.

3. Safety

Yes, it’s powerful and stylish, but it’s also a safe car. Safety features include things like forward collision alert and blindspot warning. Parents worried about a teen family member driving their Camaro will be glad to know that there is also a feature to allow them to monitor their teen’s driving. Better safe than sorry!

4. Great Value

The Camaro looks a million dollars, but you can pick one up for around $25,000-35,000, a relatively small price tag for a machine of such stature, quality and performance. Consider a certified pre-owned model and you can save even more.

5. Because it’s the Camaro

A glamorous Hollywood image may have helped along the popularity of the Camaro, but it has always been a unique symbol of the American tradition of muscle cars. Its stylish lines, strong hardware and raw power are all you need to know about this incredible machine.

Contact a dealership to learn more about the Camaro and other Chevrolet models today.

Best Northern Illinois Road Trips

America is a country partially built on the great tradition of road trips. Before everyone started flying everywhere, the country’s intricate road networks, which still crisscross the nation, were the lifeblood of many a small town and city. For many, they still are. If you’re thinking about your next road trip in northern Illinois, we have some great tips for you on where to go! We’ll look at three routes --- the Great River Road, Historic Route 66, and the Illinois Lincoln Highway.

Great River Road

This 570-mile stretch runs from East Dubuque in the north, down to Cairo in the south, following the Mississippi River all the way, and passing through some 18 different counties. Winter time is especially good if you’re a birdwatcher. The skies will be littered with eagles and other spectacular birds of prey. The northern part of the route is filled with great charming riverside spots and lovely towns full of their own unique character. Stop in Galena to see the characteristic old buildings housing the artisanal shops and small restaurants. You can get more history in Nauvoo too, the town named by Mormon church founder, Joseph Smith. The town is a treasure trove of heritage. Finally, there’s Quincy, whose Washington Park hosts great events like the Dogwood Festival.

 

Historic Route 66

Starting in the incredible city of Chicago, this iconic route heads west, with 300 miles of road in Illinois alone. Over its long history it has become a literary and cultural icon, at first symbolizing escape, especially from events like the Dust Bowl. Nowadays, though, it’s about adventure and renewal. Why not enjoy the Illinois end of the route, enjoying highlights like Lou Mitchell’s Restaurant and Bakery. Located right at the beginning of the route in downtown Chicago, it’ll give you the perfect sendoff with sumptuous breakfast and lunch fare before your journey starts. Automobile enthusiasts also shouldn’t miss the Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum --- a temple to automotive heritage. Route 66 is history in your backyard. Don’t miss out!

Illinois Lincoln Highway

This 179-mile National Scenic Byway is steeped in heritage, and runs across much of the north of the state. It is now mostly paralleled by I-80 and I-88. It is part of a much larger system, of course, running east to west coast to coast. Many sights and towns on the route are well worth a visit, such as Dixon, IL, the childhood home of none other than former President, Ronald Reagan. If that’s not for you, then stop in beautiful Joliet to take in the views of the Des Plaines River and the rugged limestone exteriors that still clad this former steel town. Travel the road and visit the unique communities along the way. There’s all the warmth and hospitality in the world waiting for you.

5 Reasons to Buy a Used Car VS.a New Car

If you’ve always bought new cars or got leases, then the experience of buying a pre-owned car will be alien to you. You might get disturbing impressions in your mind of the greasy (and crafty) used car salesman, fine tuning the wrecks on his lot so they’ll last just long enough for you to drive home, but then die on you. We understand your hesitation, but if this is what you think, you’re not only wrong, but missing out on a world of advantages to be had by opting for a used car instead of brand new. Let’s look at some of these benefits.

 

1. Financial Savings

Yes, this one is obvious. The sticker prices on used cars are always going to be lower than new cars, but there’s more to it than that. New cars may dazzle you, and even intoxicate you with that heavenly interior smell, but did you know that as soon as those wheels exit the lot and hit the open road, the value of that vehicle massively depreciates. Modern cars are not like properties. You don’t buy one as an investment and sell for profit. They are a constant loss. Why not save yourself the money and go for a used car?

2. Insurance

Along with the sticker price and depreciation considerations, you’ll also have to think about insurance. It’s a must for all drivers, and the truth is that your premiums on a used model will always be lower than anything brand new. Just think what you can do with all the savings!

3. Greater choice

Opening the door of the used car market means many more choices than if you limit yourself to what’s newest on the stage. You can shop around more for something that not only fits your ideal budget, but also your exact needs. When you’re limited to the new stuff, you may have to make some compromises here and there. With pre-owned cars, it’s not a problem. Anything you need, it’s out there.

4. High-Tech Wizardry

Many features of cars that you only ever used to associate with the newest models are now standard features in a lot of models covering the past several years. This isn’t limited to infotainment and touchscreen displays, it also includes safety features like collision alerts, and driver assistance like park assist or adaptive cruise control. The traditional image of the “old banger” of a used car is a thing of the past.

5. The Benefits of the Information Age

Greater public scrutiny, awareness and information sharing have pushed dealerships to maintain impeccably high standards not only for their new models, but their used ones, too. Thanks to this relentless Internet surveillance, you can be quite sure that you’ll have little trouble finding reputable dealerships offering great deals on top-quality used vehicles.

So, shake off your old ideas about used cars and start exploring this exciting market today. You might just find the car of your dreams in a place you never expected.

The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Why It’s the Best Model Yet

Jeep’s history goes back some 75 years or more, back to the heroic battlefields of World War Two and Korea. Since then, the brand has grown into one of the most respected not only for dependability, but also in the modern age for luxury, comfort and high-tech features --- a positive of modern peacetime, and a far cry from the rugged function-driven green jeeps of yesteryear. This year brings yet a new Jeep Grand Cherokee, and today we’re going to tell you why the 2019 model is not only the latest, but the greatest of its kind.

 

First --- it’s so customizable

Choose from a huge range of trims: the Laredo, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, SRT and Trackhawk. Each model comes with unique features designed to suit different kinds of drivers. The Trackhawk, for instance, is the perfect trim for those seeking the thrill of off-road adventure, and comes with a 6.2L supercharged V8 engine boasting more than 700hp. It’s also among the fastest SUVs out there, achieving 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds. There are great additional features, too, like automated parking. Find your spot, initiate the automated parking feature, and the car will steer you safely into any tricky spot. All you need to do is push the gas and brake pedals.

Second --- it’s feature-packed

You can upgrade the trim as you need, but there are also a ton of features which come as standard. These include the power liftgate, automatic headlights, remote starter system, dual-zone temperature control, folding second-row seats…the list goes on. The car is a great choice for the family, plenty of room for mom, dad, the kids, and yes, even the dog and whatever other cargo you’re moving about the place.

Third --- it’s economical and the perfect towing machine

It’s not often you see the word “economical” paired together with SUV, but another choice you have with the 2019 Grand Cherokee is the Eco-Diesel engine. This will boost gas mileage to 30mpg on the highway, which is as economical as most family sedans. If you’re in need of a vehicle that can also tow, then you’ll get just what you need with the 2019 Grand Cherokee. It can safely tow 7,000 pounds, and comes with trailer sway control as well.

Since its first incarnation back in the 1990s, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has stood for style as well as strength, luxury as well as ruggedness. You get the best of both worlds with this year’s model, especially with so many trim variations to suit every possible need. Contact a dealership to find out more about getting yourself on the road with a new Grand Cherokee.

Keeping Your Car On Track in Hot Weather – A Guide

It’s interesting that we all recognize immediately the dangers posed by winter weather on our cars --- increased wear and tear, the impact of sub-zero temperatures, the added chemical irritation of salt and gunk on the roads --- but are often oblivious to the equally damaging effects of heat. We think it’s just a question of flipping on the a/c or opening the sunroof, and then it’s all fine. The summer sun can do a lot of damage to your vehicle if you’re not prepared, but fortunately we’ve prepared this handy guide for you.

 

1. Pay attention to the temperature gauge

Many of us have been guilty of ignoring flashing lights on the display. If you see a light coming on or the thermometer entering the red zone, you need to find a place to safely pull over and switch off the engine. Let it cool for a while before driving on. You may think to yourself, “It’s just a couple more miles” but those couple of miles could end up costing you dearly in repairs if your engine overheats. Also, don’t try to cool the engine with cold water. That sudden temperature change can do other damage.

2. Keep an eye on fluid levels

Heat makes fluids evaporate! That’s basic chemistry. Just as you need extra water in the heat, your car needs a bit more as well. First ensure that there is proper engine lubrication while you’re driving. Have a look and check the motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid. Don’t forget the cleaning fluid for your windshield!

3. Look after your battery

Besides the engine itself, the battery is helping pump the lifeblood of your car --- power. The heat does a real number on car batteries. One thing to check is that it’s secure and snug in its place so that it doesn’t vibrate too much. It’s another fluid level to check as well, because they, too, can evaporate in extreme heat.

4. Get tires up to the right pressure

If you’re not in the habit of checking on your tire pressure, then you should change that as soon as possible anyway. In the hot weather, however, the risk of blowouts on the baking road surface is greatly increased. We probably don’t need to get into the detail of how frightening and potentially dangerous a tire blowout can be.

5. Everyone out of the car!

However short your stop when you park or pull over, don’t leave your kids or pets in the car. You might not realize just how hot it gets in there, or how quickly! Even an hour in such extreme temperatures can be damaging to young children and animals. Think again!

Stay safe in the summer heat. Keep the car in a shaded or covered location if possible, and follow our guide to avoid the worst of the potential damage caused by our friend the sun.

How to Save Money on Gas

Ever since the automobile became a staple of the American household, a burning question has remained in the minds of every family --- how much is a gallon of gas? The volatile energy markets can force gas prices up or down in wild fluctuations, and so we think it’s important that you know how to save on gas usage. However good things look now, price-wise, it’s sure not to stay that way forever.

Tip Number 1 – Drive Less

OK, we admit, this one sounds a bit obvious. If you drive less, you’ll use less gas. Of course! It doesn’t take a genius, but let’s look at this seriously. If you reflect on how much you are using your car, even for journeys under a mile, then you are probably wasting a lot fuel. Consider walking or riding a bike if you can.

Tip Number 2 – Shorten the Warm Up

If you have harsh winters, or are far up north where most mornings are rather chilly, then part of your morning routine is starting the car a couple of minutes early to get her warmed up before the commute or the school run. Try keeping your warm up within 30 seconds. You’ll be amazed how much you can save over time.

Tip Number 3 – Watch Your Speed

Staying well within the speed limits and maintaining steady cruising speeds over distance will help conserve gas. Always slowing down and speeding up is a real gas guzzling tactic, as is driving faster in general. Slow down and go steady.

Tip Number 4 – Stay on Top of Maintenance

Ignoring basic maintenance steps could be adding to your gas costs, did you know that? Some of the top things to check that can save you on gas are the tire pressure, changing out the air filters (especially in dusty areas) and making sure that you’re using the right motor oil for your vehicle (check the manual for that).

Tip Number 5 – Avoid Highway Gas Stations

Here’s something you may never have expected before, but gas from stations that are located right on main highways is usually pricier than that from other stations. Well, when you’re on the highway, where else are you going to go? Are you going to take a big detour to find some smaller station elsewhere? Unlikely. Gas up fully before you head to the highway.

Tip Number 6 – Buy When it’s Cooler

A final tip from us today – buy gas in the early mornings or later in the evenings when the temperature has dropped. Here’s the chemistry part --- when it’s cool out, the gas is denser and you’ll get more bang for your buck when pumping. More gas will come through, but the price won’t change. Avoid pumping in the heat and watch the savings roll in!

Follow these tips and avoid spending too much on gas. Every little helps Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Keeping Your Car Clean – A Guide

Yes, we know. Cleaning the car isn’t exactly the most glamorous job out there. You can get a quick rinse at the carwash for a good price, and that keeps it looking in good order…on the surface, at least. For most, however, the thought of a deep clean and proper detailing of the car is off-putting, and so they let it build up, and build up, until eventually the inside of the car is an utter disaster. Here’s some tips on keeping your motor spic and span.

Make a plan, and stick to it. Create a simple cleaning rota where you split everything into small, bite-size jobs. Monday: Wipe down the steering wheel and dash, Tuesday: Vacuum the driver’s side, Wednesday…you get the idea. Doing small manageable jobs each day will keep things in good order in the long run.

Get creative. Find simple solutions to clean into the spots you may forget. For example, you can use an old sock to clean the cup holders. Just put your hand in there and rub it around good in the cup holder, it’ll get into the full space, picking up all the bits and pieces that get stuck down there over time.

Use all the attachments on the vacuum. The main vacuum head and tube won’t be enough to do a proper clean of the vehicle. You’ll need the other attachments to help get into the nooks and crannies that conceal some of the worst dirt and dust.

Check your cleaning products. There may be some items, especially for the exterior of the car, that are not suitable for your car’s model, paint type or other external feature. When cleaning the wheels, for instance, you need to make sure that you get cleaning products that are suitable for all surfaces. There’s no telling what accidental damage you might do with the wrong products.

Stay on top of pet hair. If your dog is a regular passenger, then you need to stay on top of the fur cleanup, because that can infect your entire vehicle in ways that become unbearable. Even the professional detailers struggle with cars that have had long-term canine use and no proper cleaning routine. Use a wet rubber glove or strong tape to shift the hair from where it’s getting embedded in the upholstery or carpeting, and then vacuum it up. Better yet, brush the dog before you let it in the car, or contain it to one area of the car to minimize the spread of stray fur.

Follow these tips and you’ll keep a clean, ship shape vehicle for the whole family to enjoy.

Teen Driver Safety

There’s nothing that gets the parental panic alarms going like their teenage son or daughter heading out onto the open road for the first time, accompanied or not. It’s a hard thing, to let your child put themselves out there in the world, and especially when traffic accidents among youth happen at more tragic rates than older adults. There are some simple things you can do, however, that will help keep your teens safe out on the road.

1. Look at advanced driving courses

Drivers-ed and on-road practice may be enough to get you through a basic driving test, but it’s only the more advanced courses that better prepare young people for what’s really out there. Learn more defensive driving techniques through extra courses, and boost your teen’s safety knowledge and overall driving ability.

2. Stay well within the limits

When you’re a less experienced driver, it stands to reason that you should operate well within the recommended guidelines of road safety. Therefore, if the guidelines say keep at least two car-lengths of distance between you and the car in front, go ahead and throw in another for good measure. Is the speed limit 60mph? Drive at 50mph.

3. Turn the cell phone OFF

Switching to silent or vibrate-only just might not cut it in this age of smartphone-obsessed youth. In the 2000s, it was texting and driving that was the problem, but now it’s “every app under the sun” and driving that’s the problem. Encourage teens to turn the phone right off while driving.

If the phone is kept on, then it still needs to be put out of sight and not be used at all while driving, even while sitting still in traffic. As soon as the phone is back in their hands, even for a minute, it’ll be “Oh, I’ll just check Facebook while the light is red” and “It’s okay! I can edge forward slowly in traffic while I read this bit of news.” No phone use means no phone use.

4. Avoid extreme weather conditions

While you are still finding your driver’s legs, it might not be a good idea to go out in adverse weather conditions. High winds can make driving a huge challenge for even an experienced motorist. Heavy rains reduce visibility, fog is an even greater challenge. If the weather looks sour, consider public transport and give your car a break. Wait until you have a bit more experience, or until you can have someone accompany you.

5. Make more use of your headlights

Finally, teens should remember that headlights are not just to see better at night. They are also to help others better see you! Using headlights from the late afternoon as the sun heads down over the horizon is a good habit to develop from a young age. Pedestrians and motorists alike often underestimate how much the dimming light effects the efficacy of their eyes.