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Is There One Thing About Your Car You'd Change?

Like most drivers, we have been ingrained to change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles. But today’s engines and synthetic oils have changed the game. That means you might be able to let those miles roll by a little longer before you’re due for another oil change. So, let’s take a look at what it really means to go the extra mile with your oil.

Do You Really Need an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles?

For years, 3,000 miles has been the go-to benchmark, but advancements in synthetic oil mean some cars can go much longer between changes. Unlike conventional oil, which can break down more quickly, synthetic oil is designed to handle higher temperatures, resist sludge buildup, and protect your engine over longer distances. That’s why many cars running on synthetic oil can go 7,500, 10,000, or even 15,000 miles between oil changes, depending on the make and model. Always check your car manufacturer's recommendations to make sure you’re using the correct oil type for your vehicle.

Quick Tip:

Before you leave the oil change shop, check the mileage sticker they’ve put on your windshield. It’s often set to the 3,000-mile mark out of habit—even if you’re using synthetic oil that could last far longer. It never hurts to double-check that the recommendation matches the type of oil your car actually uses!

Mileage Reminders: Are They Accurate?

Most newer cars have built-in mileage reminders for oil changes, but are they set specifically for the kind of oil you’re using? The short answer: not always. Many mileage reminders are based on a conventional oil schedule, so if you’re using synthetic, it’s worth looking into whether that reminder can be adjusted.

If you’re not sure, ask your car manufacturer or dealership if your car’s reminder can be calibrated for synthetic oil. And if it can’t, don’t worry—just keep track of your oil type and recommended change intervals to stay on top of it. It’s one extra step, but it ensures you’re getting the best performance from your car.

Resetting the Oil Change Reminder

If you’ve recently switched to synthetic or just want to reset your oil change reminder, many cars make it easy to do. For most models, you can find instructions in the owner’s manual, or you can search online for a quick walk-through. Generally, resetting is as simple as pressing a few buttons on the dashboard. But if you’re ever unsure, your dealership or mechanic can easily handle it for you.

When Going the Extra Mile Means… Finding a New Ride

So, you’ve mastered the art of oil changes, synthetic vs. conventional, and mileage reminders. But sometimes, no amount of maintenance can turn back the clock on an aging car. When repairs start piling up or your car just isn’t as dependable as it used to be, it might be time to think about an upgrade.

And that’s where we come in—to help you find a car that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget perfectly. Think of us as your personal pit crew, ready to go the extra mile to make sure your trade-in is seamless and enjoyable. Because finding the right ride shouldn’t just be about reaching your destination—it should be about enjoying every mile along the way.

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Dazzled by the Dashboard: What Lies Beyond the Glow

You may think you know your car well, but there’s more happening beneath the surface than your dashboard reveals. Sure, the dashboard lights up for issues like low oil or tire pressure, but it doesn’t cover everything. There are many hidden components and features that work tirelessly behind the scenes, keeping your car running smoothly without ever triggering a warning light. While you're focused on the engine, transmission, and those dashboard alerts, there are a lot of car issues that go unnoticed until they become a problem.

Drain Holes: The Unsung Water Fighters

Did you know that your car has many drain holes for water? While they’re out of sight, the effects of clogged drains are not. These tiny openings help your car stay dry by channeling water out before it can get into places it doesn’t belong, like your floorboards or trunk. Here’s where you should look:

• Doors
  At the bottom of your car doors are small holes designed to drain water that slips past the window seals. If these get clogged with dirt and leaves, you might end up with soggy carpets and a musty smell. A quick visual check now and then can save you from bigger problems, like rust or mildew.

• Sunroof 
  If your car has a sunroof, there are drain tubes to channel rainwater away from the roof. If clogged, they can lead to water leaks into your headliner or even drip onto your seats. If you notice wet spots near the edges of your sunroof, it’s time to clean those drains. A quick rinse with water or air pressure can clear them up.

• Trunk
  The weather seals around your trunk aren’t always perfect. Any leaks in the trunk can lead to standing water in your spare tire well (yes, that’s a thing). Check under the mat in your trunk every once in a while. If you find moisture, the trunk drains might need a good cleaning.

• Windshield Cowl
  The area at the base of the windshield where water runs off can easily become clogged when leaves or debris pile up. This can lead to water leaks into the cabin or, worse, your car’s electrical system. Clear them out regularly to avoid water leaks or electrical issues in the future.

A Fan of Quiet Calls? So Is Your Car!

When you're driving and talking on the phone via Bluetooth, your car automatically lowers the fan speed or adjusts the airflow direction so that the person on the other end of the call doesn’t hear a blast of air drowning out your voice. Next time you're on a call and the person on the other end struggles to hear you, it might not be your phone; it could be your car’s climate control feature acting up. But not all noise comes from inside the car. If your door seals are worn or cracked, external noise like wind and road noise can seep into the cabin, making it harder for the person on the other end of the call to hear you clearly. You may not notice it, but they will.

Door Seals: Keeping Water and Noise Out

Your car’s door seals work hard to reduce not only water leaks but also excess wind noise. These rubber seals around your car’s doors and windows are designed to keep your ride quiet and comfortable. However, they can dry out, crack, or peel over time, letting unwanted noise sneak in and even affecting your phone calls.

If you notice wind noise or water trickling in during heavy rain, your seals might be in need of some attention. A quick inspection can help you avoid bigger problems down the road.

Cabin Air Filter: The Silent Smell-Maker

You can’t see your cabin air filter, but you can definitely smell it when it’s neglected. Over time, this filter gets clogged with dust, pollen, and all sorts of debris, which makes your car’s ventilation system work harder and could make your car smell like a damp basement. If your car’s air smells musty, stale, or just downright unpleasant when you turn on the A/C, it’s probably time for a new filter. It's a simple fix, and you’ll instantly make your drives fresher and more pleasant.

Pothole Problems: Getting Pulled In The Wrong Direction

We've all felt that jarring thunk when hitting a pothole. Not only is it uncomfortable, it can mess with your car's alignment. If you notice your car pulling to one side or your steering wheel seems off-center, chances are your wheel alignment has been knocked out of place. Left unchecked, poor alignment can lead to uneven tire wear and make handling more difficult, which is both unsafe and costly in the long run.

But that’s not all. Hitting a pothole, curb, or parking block can affect your headlight alignment. Most of us only think about headlights when they go out or aren’t as bright as they used to be. However, after significant impacts like these, your headlights can shift slightly out of alignment. If one light seems to be shining higher than the other, or if oncoming drivers keep flashing their bright lights at you, it could be that your headlights are pointing in the wrong direction.

Beyond the Dashboard: Not Your Usual Checklist

Your dashboard does a great job of warning you about things like low oil or tire pressure, but it doesn’t tell you the whole story. There are countless hidden features quietly doing their part to keep your car running smoothly, without ever lighting up a warning. These small, often-overlooked details might not seem like a big deal, but taking a few minutes to check and maintain them can save you from major headaches down the road.

Most of these fixes are easy to spot and simple to take care of, even if you’re not a car expert. Next time you're giving your car a once-over, don't just rely on what the dashboard tells you. Take a moment to check these hidden heroes, and keep your ride smooth, dry, and drama-free.

While staying on top of these hidden features not only keeps your car running smoothly, it also helps maintain its value. Regular attention to components like seals, drains, and alignment can prevent costly damage down the road and keep your car in great shape. However, as cars age, even with the best care, there comes a point when the cost and effort of maintenance start to wear you down. If you’re finding that these systems need more frequent attention, it might be time to consider trading in your car for something newer and less demanding.

Ready to Trade In for Something New?

If you’re tired of keeping up with constant maintenance and repairs, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Imagine driving a newer car with fewer headaches, improved features, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve made a smart choice.

We make the trade-in process easy and hassle-free. Bring your current car to us, and we’ll give you a fair trade-in value you can put towards a newer, more reliable vehicle. Whether you’re looking for better performance, updated technology, or just a smoother ride, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.

Don’t wait—start enjoying your drive again. Visit us today or contact us to begin your simple trade-in process and take the first step towards a car that suits your needs without the extra hassle.

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Are you feeling the effects of the tough economy? If so we get it. The allure of buying a car from a third party, like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, can be pretty tempting. You might be thinking you’ll score a great deal and have a bit more control over the process. But, as car dealers, we've seen just about every kind of transaction you can imagine, The hard truth is that tough times bring scammers out of the woodwork. They are looking to take advantage of your desire to save money. Even when you're dealing with a legitimate , what you don't know or even consider could lead to wishing you never attended that "Third Party". Here are some of the common pitfalls of going the third-party route and why buying from a dealer might be a safer bet.

Watch Out for Incomplete or Suspicious Listings

You know that saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”? That’s especially true when you're scrolling through online listings. A lot of times, sellers might leave out critical details like mileage, the car’s history, or even clear photos. They might just be sloppy, or worse, they might be trying to hide something. For example, some sellers intentionally omit information about major accidents or title issues to lure in unsuspecting buyers. If the price is super low and the description is vague, take it as a red flag. As a dealer, our reputation depends on it providing solid information on every car. You won’t get that level of transparency with just any random seller online.

Be weary of listings that use stock photos instead of actual pictures of the car. This can be a sign that the seller is not being upfront about the condition of the vehicle. Also, listings that encourage you to contact the seller directly via email or off-platform could be part of a scam. These tactics are often used to avoid platform scrutiny and are a major red flag.

Never Skip a Vehicle History Check

This can't be stressed enough. Always check the vehicle’s history using the VIN. Services like Carfax or AutoCheck are your best friends here. So many people get stuck with cars that have been in serious accidents, have salvage titles, or have odometer rollbacks. That's where the seller illegally reduces the mileage shown on the odometer to make the car appear less used. 

Some vehicles may have had multiple owners, which can complicate the vehicle's history and raise concerns about consistent maintenance. Additionally, cars that have been used as rental vehicles or in ride-sharing services may have undergone more wear and tear than typical private-use vehicles. A thorough history report can help you identify these factors, but it's something many third-party sellers might not disclose upfront.

Verify the Seller’s Identity and Legitimacy

Here’s a scary thought: not everyone who posts a car online actually owns it. Always ask to see the seller’s ID and make sure it matches the name on the title. This step helps ensure that the person you’re dealing with has the legal right to sell the car. News stories often highlight people getting scammed by someone selling a car “for a friend” or worse, a stolen vehicle. Without proper verification, you could end up buying a car that’s not legally yours. When you buy from a dealer, you know exactly who you’re dealing with.

Be aware of sellers who are overly eager to close the deal quickly. They may pressure you to complete the transaction before you have time to verify details or may refuse to meet in person. These are often tactics used by scammers to push through fraudulent sales. Always insist on meeting in a public place and conducting the transaction in person. If the seller resists, consider it a red flag.

Don’t Skip the Test Drive

You wouldn’t believe how many folks out there buy cars without even test-driving them. Huge mistake! Even if you’re mechanically savvy, a professional inspection is crucial. This isn’t just about making sure the engine runs; it’s about uncovering potential issues that could cost you thousands down the line. For example, a car might have hidden rust damage, transmission issues, or electrical problems that aren’t immediately noticeable. Dealers have mechanics who inspect every vehicle before it’s put on the lot. We make sure everything is in good shape, and if it’s not, fix it. You can’t always trust a private seller to do the same, and once you hand over that cash, any problems are your problems.

Consider having the inspection done at an independent, trusted mechanic, not one recommended by the seller. Sellers might suggest their own mechanic or a shop they are familiar with, but this can lead to biased reports that favor the seller. Also, pay attention to how the car behaves during the test drive, especially under different driving conditions, like acceleration, braking, and cornering. Listen for unusual noises, which could indicate underlying issues.

Safe Payment Methods Are a Must

Handling the payment part of the deal can be tricky. Cash is risky, wire transfers can be scams, and PayPal might not cover you in disputes over a car. There have been instances where buyers paid cash, only to later discover that the car had a lien on it, meaning the previous owner still owed money to a lender. This situation can get messy fast, with the lender potentially repossessing the car. At a dealership, you get safe, secure payment options, whether you’re financing, leasing, or paying outright. We even handle the title transfer for you, so there’s no chance of getting stuck with a car you can’t legally drive.

Always verify that the title is free and clear of liens before making any payment. Ask the seller to provide documentation proving that any loans have been paid off. If possible, complete the transaction at a bank or credit union where the transfer of funds and title can be done securely and simultaneously. This minimizes the risk of fraud and ensures that all legal aspects of the sale are properly handled.

Make Sure All the Paperwork Is in Order

When buying from a third party, you’re responsible for making sure all the paperwork is correct, bill of sale, title transfer, and so on. If anything’s missing or filled out wrong, it can lead to big problems, like not being able to register the car. Imagine buying a car, driving it home, and then finding out at the DMV that you can’t register it because the title is still in the previous owner’s name or because there’s a mistake on the paperwork. Car dealerships handle the paperwork for you. It’s part of the service, and it ensures that everything is legal and above board. Plus, dealerships are familiar with the specific requirements of your state or county, which can vary and be confusing for someone not used to dealing with these transactions.

Don't leave such an important purchase to chance. Protect yourself from potential scams, hidden issues, and legal headaches by choosing a trusted dealership for your next vehicle. Visit us today to browse our selection of thoroughly inspected vehicles, enjoy secure payment options, and let our experienced team handle all the paperwork, so you can drive away with peace of mind. Your next car is waiting, take the safe route and make it yours!

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A Car Dealer You Can Count On!

If you’re in the market for a used car, look no further than our premier used car dealer. With an extensive inventory of reliable and high-quality vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected to guarantee customer satisfaction, we provide a hassle-free experience so you can easily find the perfect car for you or your family. We make it our mission to exceed expectations and provide each customer with personalized attention and exceptional service. Whether you’re looking for something small and economic or luxurious, we are sure to have something within your budget as well as fitting all preferences. So if you need a great ride at an even better price, let us be your go-to used car dealership!

Need Auto Financing? We Can Help!

Are you ready to purchase a car but feeling overwhelmed by the financing process? Car financing can seem daunting and complex, especially for first-time buyers. Fortunately, there are lots of resources out there that can help simplify the process so you can get your dream car with ease. Take advantage of our car loan calculator and make smart decisions when it comes to navigating the innovative world of cost-effective car financing!

Highly Rated Car Dealer

With so many car dealerships to choose from, it's important to know how to assess a dealership's reputation before you make a purchase. Not all car dealers are equally reputable and trustworthy; some may have unreliable customer service or wonky products that could leave you feeling frustrated and disappointed with your purchase. So, if you're in the market for a new set of wheels, read on for tips that can help you determine which dealer will provide the best value and experience as well as ensure an enjoyable buying experience.

Looking To Sell Your Car in? We Want It!

Are you thinking about selling your car? There are many reasons why someone may decide to sell their vehicle, ranging from needing cash in a pinch to wanting a newer model. Selling your car can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be with the right information and planning. Fill out our easy trade form and we will get you the best value for your vehicle. If you are looking for a new car we may not have in stock? Use our car finder and we will help get you into the perfect car.

Come See Us At Our Dealership

Stop by today and meet our staff and learn more about our dealership or feel free to send us a comment.