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How To Keep Your Car On The Road Longer

One of the best ways to keep your car on the road longer is to perform regular maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can avoid more serious and expensive problems down the road.

Spark Plugs And Wires

In addition to regular maintenance, changing your spark plugs and wires proactively help extend the life of your car. Over time, these parts can wear out and cause problems with your engine.

Cabin Filter and Air Filter

Change your cabin air filter and engine air filter. One affects the airflow in your car and the other affects the airflow to your engine. Both are important for keeping your car running smoothly.

Fuel Injectors & EGR Valves

Check your fuel injectors.  Although not part of a standard service maintenance schedule, they start to deteriorate. You'll have a check engine light come on. Another major component that a lot of people fail to talk about when they just tune ups is the EGR valve or the exhaust gas recirculation valve. These should be checked and replaced according to your manufacturer's recommendations.

A faulty EGR valve can cause  all sorts of engine performance problems, including a loss of power and fuel economy.

Tires

Most people recognize the importance of having good tires on your car for  traction, safety, and gas mileage. But did you know that the condition of your tires can also have an impact on your electrical components. It's possible to have vibrations from your tires that will loosen battery terminals and other electrical connections. So, not only do you want to have good tread on your tires for safety, but you also want to keep an eye on any loose wires  or terminals.

 

By following these simple tips, you can keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

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!


Do We Really Need Car Touch Screens

What started out as a way to view your car’s rear view camera soon started displaying everything from your radio, temperature controls and everything in between. They’re in almost every new car on the market, and their prominence is only going to increase in the coming years. But do we really need car touch screens?

The answer, it turns out, is a resounding yes… and no.


On the one hand, car touch screens make it easier than ever to control your car’s various systems. You can change the music, turn on the AC, and even adjust your seats without ever taking your hands off the wheel.


On the other hand, car touch screens can be dangerously distracting. Especially if you are not that familiar with where  all the controls are. It can take your eyes off the road for vital seconds that could mean the difference between life and death.

While touchscreen displays can be distracting, many car manufacturers are trying to design them in a way that minimizes driver distraction. Some features that are being implemented include:


- touch screens that can disappear into the dashboard

- voice controls

- heads-up displays that project images onto the windshield

- gesture controls


Ultimately, it is up to the driver to decide if a car touch screen is right for them. If you can use it without taking your eyes off the road, then it can be a valuable asset. But if you find yourself constantly fumbling with the controls, it might be best to stick with good old-fashioned buttons and knobs.


How To Keep Your Car On The Road Longer

One of the best ways to keep your car on the road longer is to perform regular maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can avoid more serious and expensive problems down the road.

Spark Plugs And Wires

In addition to regular maintenance, changing your spark plugs and wires proactively help extend the life of your car. Over time, these parts can wear out and cause problems with your engine.

Cabin Filter and Air Filter

Change your cabin air filter and engine air filter. One affects the airflow in your car and the other affects the airflow to your engine. Both are important for keeping your car running smoothly.

Fuel Injectors & EGR Valves

Check your fuel injectors.  Although not part of a standard service maintenance schedule, they start to deteriorate. You'll have a check engine light come on. Another major component that a lot of people fail to talk about when they just tune ups is the EGR valve or the exhaust gas recirculation valve. These should be checked and replaced according to your manufacturer's recommendations.

A faulty EGR valve can cause  all sorts of engine performance problems, including a loss of power and fuel economy.

Tires

Most people recognize the importance of having good tires on your car for  traction, safety, and gas mileage. But did you know that the condition of your tires can also have an impact on your electrical components. It's possible to have vibrations from your tires that will loosen battery terminals and other electrical connections. So, not only do you want to have good tread on your tires for safety, but you also want to keep an eye on any loose wires  or terminals.


By following these simple tips, you can keep your car running smoothly for years to come.


What Is Buy Here Pay Here

Please view Heritage Motors "What Is Buy Here Pay Here?"
Content Provided by AutoTrader.com


If you've found that every other credit avenue for financing a car is closed to you, a Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealer may be your last, and best, resort.

Most of us simply can't afford to buy a car with cash. Typically, we borrow money for a car through third-party lenders, such as banks, credit unions and carmaker-associated lending companies.

For a variety of reasons, however (such as a spotty credit history, no credit or a very low credit score), traditional lenders may not work for you. If that's the case, there are always BHPH dealers.

What Is Buy Here Pay Here Financing?

BHPH financing means that you arrange the loan and make payments on it at the dealership where you purchased the car. In other words, it's a one-stop shopping process because the car dealer is also the finance company.

Because loan decisions are made by the BHPH dealer, who wants to sell you a car, approval is nearly always guaranteed. If you have an address and a steady income, your chances for approval are very good.

Granting you a loan, however, isn't out of the goodness of the dealer's heart; they will probably make as much, or more, profit on the financing as they do on the car itself. As a high-risk borrower, you can expect a double-digit interest rate.

It's helpful to find a dealer close to your home or work because, rather than mailing a monthly payment, the BHPH dealer might require you to make weekly or biweekly trips to the dealership to pay in person. Although some will accept payment online or by mail or phone, BHPH usually means physically bringing your payment to the dealership.

Differences Between BHPH Dealerships and Traditional Dealerships

Lately, the lines separating a more traditional dealership and one offering BHPH have become blurred. Some traditional new- and used-car dealerships now offer BHPH financing as an option. You might not see "Buy Here Pay Here" written across the windshields of the cars, but phrases such as "We Finance" are usually code for BHPH.

If you're having trouble getting traditional financing, start with the used-car lot at a franchised dealership, such as Chevrolet or Dodge, that advertises easy financing or rebuilding credit.

The bad news is that BHPH turns the car-shopping experience upside down. Rather than settling on a car and then talking financing, a BHPH dealer will first qualify the customer before determining how much they're willing to lend. Finally, the dealer will show the customer which cars are options to buy, and choices will probably be limited.

With BHPH, always ask about the late payment policy. Is there a grace period, and if so, how long is it? Make sure that the contract clearly spells out how long the period is between missing one of those weekly payments and repossession.

Who Should Go to a BHPH Dealership?

Your credit may well be better than you think. Always go to traditional lenders first: banks, credit unions and even finance companies. Only when every one of them has denied you should you revert to a BHPH dealer.

Benefits of BHPH

  • They put credit-challenged borrowers in a car when a traditional lender will not.
  • On-time payments can help repair your credit history (but be sure that the BHPH dealer reports payment histories to the credit bureau).
  • They buy older cars and will be more willing to take in an old beater toward the down payment of a new car.
  • What it means to you: When every traditional lender turns you down, Buy Here Pay Here dealers can help put you behind the wheel. If you think Buy Here, Pay Here is a good fit for you can your circumstance, check out our Buy Here, Pay Here page that list specific dealers and cars that are available with BHPH financing.

What it means to you: When every traditional lender turns you down, Buy Here Pay Here dealers can help put you behind the wheel. If you think Buy Here, Pay Here is a good fit for you can your circumstance, check out our Buy Here, Pay Here page that list specific dealers and cars that are available with BHPH financing.


Source: AutoTrader.com (September 2014)


For more information, please click the links below:

Midsize Sedan Buyers Guide

Please view the Heritage Motors Midsize Sedan Buyer's Guide: More Car for Your Money
Content Provided by KBB.com

Roomy, comfortable, efficient, tech-savvy, and sometimes even fun to drive, today's midsize sedans deliver more bang for the buck than perhaps any other category of vehicles. It's no wonder they remain among the top-selling cars in the country.


2018 Chevrolet Malibu
Starting Price: $22,555
Totally rethought for 2016, the Malibu is roomier, more stylish and more tech savvy than ever before.


2018 Ford Fusion
Starting Price: $23,090
The boldly styled Fusion continues to turn heads and win buyers with its good looks.


2018 Honda Accord
Starting Price: $24,465
All-new for 2018, this is the most advanced, most refined Accord to date.


2018 Hyundai Sonata
Starting Price: $22,935
With a low starting price and excellent warranty coverage, the roomy and feature-filled Sonata is a better and better value.



2018 Kia Optima
Starting Price: $23,495
The Optima mixes a sporty and stylish persona with established value.


2018 Mazda Mazda6
Starting Price:$23,890
Arguably the most stylish, most fun-to-drive midsize sedan, a more powerful turbocharged engine and updated styling make the Mazda6 even more appealing for 2018. 


2018 Nissan Altima
Starting Price: $24,145
Nissan's popular midsize sedan trails only Camry and Accord in annual sales.


2018 Subaru Legacy
Starting Price: $23,055
The Legacy's claim to fame remains its standard all-wheel drive, but its stellar reputation for reliability is equally compelling.


2018 Toyota Camry
Starting Price: $24,530
All-new for 2018, the venerable Camry is as easy to drive and reliable as ever, but with a new sense of style and sportiness.


2018 Volkswagen Passat
Starting Price: $23,845
The only European entry in the segment, the roomy, comfortable Passat is also a pleasure to drive. 




Best Buy
On the strength of its stellar reputation for quality and value, the 2018 Honda Accord was named the Kelley Blue Book Midsize Car Best Buy of 2018, as well as the Overall Best Buy of 2018. 

Broad Appeal
You'll find six of these midsize sedans on our most recent list of 10 Best Sedans Under $25,000 and six on our collection of 10 Most Comfortable Cars Under $30,000.

What's New
Following a relatively quiet 2017 model year for the segment, 2018 brings with it complete redesigns of both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. And while not a full redesign, the Hyundai Sonata has been significantly updated for 2018, as has the Mazda6.

Resale Value Recognition
The Subaru Legacy is a perennial resale value standout, and it took home our most recent Best Resale Value Award in the Mid-Size Car category. Following in the second and third spots were the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.


Source: KBB.com (January 4, 2018)

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