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Deloreans Driverless Cars & Digital License Plates

Is The Future Now Or Are We Back To The Future

Are you one of those people who believe the future is now? If you're not, then you might want to keep reading, because these two technologies may soon change the way we drive – and live.

Driverless cars have been in the movies for years, but only recently have they become a reality. In 2015, Google's self-driving car completed over 200,000 miles without a single accident. While there are still some kinks to work out – like how the cars will interact with human drivers – it's only a matter of time before these vehicles are on the road.

Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volvo have all announced plans to release self-driving cars in the next few years. So what does this mean for the future of driving?

For those who hate parallel parking there are models on the road that can do it for you. Gone are the days when cars didn't have power steering but it is still a skill that takes time to master. However now with "parallel parking assist" you can let the car do the work.

Out Of Time or Just In Time?

Just like old Doc Brown. you can get a cool customized personal banner on your licensee plate. But there's a big price to pay.

According to AutoBlog.com

Drivers in Michigan now have the option to purchase a digital license plate for their car. They are the 3rd state to do so. Their view as well as ours is they're not cheap.

"We'll start with what are claimed to be the benefits of a digital plate. First, there's customization; the plate can be switched between light and dark modes, and there's space for a personalized banner message at the bottom of the rectangle. Second, ease; renewing registration can be done through the Reviver app. Third, broadcasting; The plate can display public safety announcements like Amber Alerts. Fourth, tracking ability; the RPlate Pro contains GPS and telematics transponders, so it can locate a vehicle — one lost in a parking lot or one that's stolen, for instance. Because the Pro version is tailored for fleets, its telematics transponder can also do things like track mileage.

The price for all that is, well, pricey. Both plates require subscription plans that are far more expensive than getting new stickers for a dumb piece of aluminum. Subscribers can get the battery-powered RPlate for $215.40 per year for a four-year total of $861.60, or for $19.95 monthly for a four-year total of $957.60. The RPlate Pro is wired into the vehicle, so after paying $150 for professional installation, a subscriber forks over either $275.40 per year for $1,101.60 after four years, or $24.95 monthly for a total of $1,197.60 after four years. Subscribers should also know those prices can change. "

Is It Worth It? Probably Not.

It seems that the cost doesn't outweigh the benefits. You can already get a custom plate. However these optional digital plates are likely to become the standard in the future. It could be a cost savings to States in the long run. An Invalid message on the back of your car will stick out like a sore thumb to the Policeman driving behind you.

The Delorean Is Making A Comeback

Check Out The New Delorean Concept Car

According to NPR

The concept car – which was first teased back in February – is set to premiere at the prestigious California car show Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in mid-August, with limited production set to begin in 2024."

Is Your Old Car Stuck In The Past?

Maybe it's Time To Trade it In.

Many people feel stuck in their old car, even if it's not the most practical or efficient choice. What's worse, the thought of driving from dealership to dealership to look for a new one feels overwhelming.

Times have changed and so has the way we buy cars. You can now trade in your old car for a new one without stepping foot in a dealership. Our online showroom allows you to browse through our inventory, schedule a test drive, and apply for financing – all from the comfort of your own home.

Not Sure You Should Keep Your Car

You've Lost That Loving Feeling

Deep down inside you know It’s time to trade in your old car for a newer one. Perhaps the car you are currently driving is starting to show its age. Maybe your kids have been begging you for a while or you’ve been wanting to get a bigger car.

Whatever the case may be, now is the time to make the switch and we want to help you. Here are four reasons why you should trade in your car to our dealership:

1. Get a Fair Price for Your Trade-In

Our team of experts will appraise your car and give you a fair price for it – no haggling necessary. We want your business, so we’ll make sure you get a fair price for your trade-in.

2. Get a Great Deal on a New Car

When you trade in your car, you’ll be able to take advantage of our great deals on a newer car. We have a wide selection of the latest models, so you’re sure to find something you love.

3. Get Rid of Your Old Car Hassle-Free

Don’t worry about what to do with your old car – we’ll take care of everything for you including the paperwork. All you have to do is bring your car to us and we’ll take it from there.

4. Get the Upgrade You Deserve

Finally let all your hard work payoff. You deserve a better car and we can help you get it. Trade in your old car and upgrade to something new, better, and more luxurious. You’ll be glad you did.

What's That Noise - Your Safety Depends On It

Your Brakes Are Telling You Something!

Brakes are an essential part of every car, helping you to slow down and stop when needed. Generally, if your brakes are making a high-pitched squealing noise when you first step on them, it's an indication that the brake pads need to be replaced.

What causes that noise when you brake?

This can be due to a number of different factors - worn or dirty brake pads, issues with the rotors or calipers, or even something as simple as dirt or debris caught in the brakes.

If you're noticing a strange noise coming from your brakes, it's always best to have them checked out by a professional mechanic to ensure there isn't a bigger issue at play.

What are the different types of brakes, and how do they work?

There are many different types of brakes, each designed to perform a specific function and work in a particular way. Some common brake types include disc brakes, drum brakes, and vacuum brakes.

Disc brakes use a system of pads that press against a spinning metal disc to slow or stop the vehicle. Drum brakes consist of two brake shoes that press against the inside of a stationary metal drum. Vacuum brakes use suction to slow or stop a vehicle, drawing air from the atmosphere into chambers

How can you tell if your brakes need to be serviced or replaced?

If your car is making a noise when you brake, there's a good chance that something is wrong with your brakes. There are several things you can do to check your brakes and see if they need to be serviced or replaced.

Another way to tell if your brakes are in need of service is to look at your brake fluid levels. If the fluid is low or dark, it could be a sign that your brakes need to be flushed and refilled.

What does turning the Rotors mean?

If you've ever had your car's brakes serviced, you may have heard the term "turning the rotors." But what does that actually mean?

Rotors are the metal discs that your brake pads press against to slow or stop your car. When they become worn or dirty, they can cause a number of problems with braking performance. Turning the rotors means machining them down so that they are smooth and clean again, allowing for better braking. If they get worn down below a certain point, they will need to be replaced entirely by a mechanic.

 

As a driver, it's important to be aware of any issues with your car's brakes, as this can have serious implications for your safety on the road. Some common symptoms of worn or faulty brakes include a high-pitched squealing noise when braking, low or dark brake fluid levels, vibrations or shuddering when applying the brakes, and poor response time. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to have your brakes checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Old Car Technology Thats Now Considered Standard

Car Technology Advancements That Make Life Easier For Drivers

Are you old enough to remember when air conditioning and powered windows were optional car features? How about when you had to manually unlock your doors? If you are, then you've seen firsthand how far car technology has come in just a few decades.

Nowadays, we can't imagine owning a vehicle without them. In fact, new cars are loaded with all sorts of tech gadgets and creature comforts that make the driving experience more enjoyable. Here are just a few of the car tech advancements that have made life easier for drivers.

Automatic Climate Control

Curbside Classic

"Cadillac released Comfort Control, the world’s first fully automatic climate control system in 1964. This system is an amazing accomplishment and a reminder of how GM and Cadillac really once were the standard of the world"

If you wanted that type of luxury you had to pay a pretty penny for it. Nowadays, you can find automatic climate control in even the most basic of cars. This feature keeps the temperature at a preset level, so you don't have to adjust it every time the weather changes.

Cruise Control

Another oldie but goodie is Cruise Control. Great for long road trips when you don't want to wear your foot out by constantly pressing the gas pedal. It also helps you save on gas. Just set your desired speed and the car will maintain a consistent speed, as long as you keep your foot off the brake.

Wikipedia

"Modern cruise control (also known as a speedostat or tempomat) was invented in 1948 by the blind inventor and mechanical engineer Ralph Teetor.[4][5] He came up with the idea due to being frustrated by his driver's habit of speeding up and slowing down as he talked."

Heated and Cooled Seats

Another comfort feature that has become standard in many new cars are heated and cooled seats. This is a welcome addition for those who live in climates with extreme temperatures. Heated seats warm you up on cold days, while cooled seats keep you cool on hot days.

Backup Cameras

Did you know that backup cameras originated in 1956? Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Backup cameras are a lifesaver, literally. They help you avoid accidents by giving you a clear view of what's behind you when you're in reverse.

Wikipedia

"1956 Buick Centurion concept car, presented in January 1956 at the General Motors Motorama. The vehicle had a rear-mounted television camera that sent images to a TV screen in the dashboard in place of the rear-view mirror."

If you've ever tried to parallel park in a tight spot without one then you know what a pain it can be. a backup camera can be a lifesaver.

Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 - The Day Backup Cameras Became Standard

Car And Driver

"If you’re shopping for a new vehicle and it doesn’t have a backup camera or the feature costs extra, then it was built before Tuesday, May 1st, 2018. That’s when the safety device became standard on all vehicles made for the American market."

Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Keyless Entry and Start

Just like other car technology , keyless entry and start has been around for a while but it's only recently that it has become standard in new cars. This feature allows you to unlock and start your car without ever having to take your keys out of your pocket.

What Car Technology Is Next To Become A Standard Option?

Here are some other options that are starting to move their way from the luxury category into the mainstream. The average car buyer may not be able to afford all of these features right now, but eventually, they may become standard.

1. Automatic braking

2. Lane departure warning

3. Blind spot monitoring

4. Park assist systems

5. Adaptive cruise control

6. Heads-up displays

One of the most popular car technology trends is the inclusion of hands-free capabilities, such as Bluetooth and voice-activated controls. This allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still being able to control.

Do you have a car with outdated technology?

It might be time to trade it in. You deserve the latest technology in your car – and we can help make that happen. We have a huge selection of cars to choose from, and we’ll make sure the process is easy for you.

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!


Winter Driving - It's No Joke

Cold Weather And Snow Are Just Around The Corner

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, it's important to remember some basic winter driving safety tips. By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone involved.


Depending on where you live, winter driving conditions can vary greatly. In some areas, snow and ice are a regular occurrence, while in others, it's more of a rare event. No matter what the conditions are like in your area, it's always important to be prepared for the worst.

Before setting out on a winter drive, make sure your car is in good working condition. This means having a full tank of gas, making sure all your lights are working, and having snow tires or chains if conditions are particularly bad. It's also a good idea to let someone know your planned route and expected arrival time, just in case you run into trouble along the way.


When driving in winter conditions, take your time and don't be afraid to give yourself extra space between you and the car in front of you. It takes longer to stop on slippery roads, so you need to give yourself plenty of time to brake. And if you do start to skid, resist the urge to panic. Instead, focus on steering into the direction of the skid until you regain control.


If you haven't driven in snow before then you should consider having someone take you to a safe location to practice. Once you feel confident behind the wheel, then you can start venturing out on your own. Just remember to take things slow and be extra cautious until you get used to the conditions.


Before the winter driving season begins, check your used car carefully. Inspect the tires for tread depth and add all-weather tires when needed. Be sure your car has snow scrapers, a shovel, and kitty litter or rock salt in case you need extra traction.

Are you confident in your car's ability to drive in snow? Check with our knowledgeable sales staff to find a reliable car that will help you brave the winter roads in style. Stop by today and take a test drive!


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