Beauty Before Age?

Many drivers assume that a car’s age automatically determines how much it is worth at trade-in time. While year and mileage do influence value, they are not the whole story. In many cases, a newer vehicle with poor maintenance history can be worth less than an older vehicle that has been consistently cared for.

This is why service records play such a major role during trade-in evaluations.

Consistency Builds Confidence

Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and recommended maintenance create a clear picture of responsible ownership. When records show that a vehicle has been serviced on schedule, it signals reliability to future buyers and appraisers alike.

That history demonstrates not just care, but also peace of mind. Buyers want confidence that routine maintenance was never ignored.

Skipping Maintenance Lowers Value

Gaps in service history can create concerns, even if the vehicle feels fine during a short test drive. Inconsistent care can raise questions about long-term wear and potential repairs down the road.

Vehicles without maintenance documentation may still perform well, but less certainty often leads to more conservative appraisals.

Digital Records Count Too

Service history does not need to be stored in a physical folder. Many maintenance providers maintain digital records that can be referenced during evaluations. Online service logs, dealership service histories, and manufacturer databases often help verify past care.

If you do have physical receipts or printed service summaries, bringing them along can be helpful during your visit.

How History Affects Trade-In Offers

Two vehicles of the same year and mileage can receive different trade-in values simply based on service documentation. Consistent records reduce risk for future owners, and that added confidence is reflected in the appraisal.

If you are considering trading your vehicle, learning more about how the process works through the trade-in evaluation page is a good way to set expectations.

Preparing Your Records

• Gather receipts from oil changes and maintenance visits.
• Print digital service histories when possible.
• Keep any warranty or repair paperwork.
• Bring title or payoff information if applicable.

Preparation saves time and helps ensure that your vehicle is evaluated as accurately as possible.

Thinking Ahead

Even if you are not planning to trade right away, keeping organized maintenance records benefits your vehicle long-term. It improves reliability today and protects value for the future.

If you have questions about what documents to bring or how the appraisal process works, you can always reach out for assistance before your visit.

But Luckily You Don't Have To!

Buying your first car is a big deal. It’s exciting, but it can also feel intimidating. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to say the wrong thing,” or “What if I make a huge mistake?”, you’re not alone. Almost every first-time buyer walks in with the same worries.

The good news? Most of those worries are completely normal and many of them aren’t worth stressing over as much as you think. Let’s walk through a few of the big fears first-time buyers have, and why you can relax a little.

Worry #1: “I Don’t Know Enough About Cars”

Plenty of people feel like they need to be a car expert before they ever step onto a lot. In reality, that’s not the expectation at all. Your job is to know your life, your budget, and what you’d like your next vehicle to do for you. The details features, trim levels, and options can be talked through together.

A simple way to feel more confident is to look around online first. Take a few minutes to browse a variety of vehicles so you can get a feel for body styles, approximate prices, and features that catch your eye. You don’t need to memorize anything just getting familiar with what’s out there can make the conversation at the dealership feel much easier.

Remember, asking questions is not a sign of weakness. It’s the smartest thing you can do as a first-time buyer.

Worry #2: “I’ll Say the Wrong Thing”

It’s easy to worry that one wrong sentence could somehow derail the whole experience. The truth is, there’s no secret script you’re supposed to follow. You don’t need special words or perfect timing just honesty.

The most helpful thing you can do is simply share what you’re looking for and what matters to you. Whether that’s staying within a certain budget, needing space for family, or wanting great fuel mileage, your needs guide the conversation. The process works best when it feels open and relaxed, not like a test you have to pass. You can learn more about that process by reading up on how a trade-in evaluation typically works.

Think of it as a two-way conversation focused on finding the vehicle that fits you and your lifestyle. There’s no “wrong” thing to say when you’re being honest about what you want and asking questions to learn more.

Worry #3: “I Won’t Qualify for Financing”

Financing is another big stress point for first-time buyers. Many people worry they’ll sit down, get judged, and be told “no” without any explanation.

In reality, the financing process is more about matching your situation with the right lending option. Every lender has different guidelines, and many dealerships work with a variety of lending partners. The goal is to find a comfortable path forward, not to make you feel bad about where you’re starting from.

If you’d like a head start, you can always take a few minutes to begin a simple credit application online. That way, some of the groundwork is done before you ever step through the door. It doesn’t guarantee approval, but it can help you know what to expect and save time during your visit.

Worry #4: “What If I Pick the Wrong Vehicle?”

First-time buyers often feel pressure to find the “perfect” car on the first try. It’s easy to worry that you’ll regret your choice the moment you drive away.

Instead of chasing perfection, focus on fit. How will you really use the vehicle? Daily commutes, school runs, road trips, weekend projects these all matter more than a specific color or gadget.

If you don’t see the exact match you had in mind, that’s not the end of the road. Many dealerships offer a vehicle locator option to help search beyond what’s sitting on the lot today. If you’re curious about that, take a look at the car locator service to see how it works.

The right vehicle is the one that fits your life and budget not the one that checks every box on a wishlist.

Worry #5: “I’ll Just Be Another Number”

It’s easy to picture the car-buying process as cold and transactional get in, sign papers, get out. But behind every showroom and website is a team of real people who help customers every day and understand that a first-time purchase is a big deal.

If you’d like to feel more comfortable before you ever visit, you can always learn more about the team you’ll be working with. Getting to know the people behind the process can make the entire experience feel more personal.

And if you have a question, concern, or special situation you want to talk through ahead of time, you can reach out directly. A quick message can clear up a lot of anxiety before you ever set foot in the showroom.

How to Feel More Confident Before You Visit

Feeling nervous doesn’t mean you’re not ready to buy a car it just means it’s important to you. Here are a few simple steps that can boost your confidence:

• Write down your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” so you don’t forget them in the moment.
• Take a quick look at what’s available right now to get a feel for options and price ranges.
• Gather basic documents you might need, like your driver’s license and trade-in information if you have a vehicle to replace.
• If you’re curious about financing, spend a few minutes on the online credit application so you know where you stand.
• Jot down any questions you want to be sure you ask in person.

Being a first-time buyer doesn’t mean you have to feel lost. With a little preparation, a few good questions, and a team willing to guide you through the process, you can move from nervous to confident and actually enjoy choosing your first car.

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.

Do we really need car touch screens?

Car touch screens are becoming increasingly common in new cars and offer a way to control various systems such as the radio, temperature controls and more with ease. However, the question remains: do we really need them?

The Pros

There are certainly benefits to having car touch screens. For one, they make it possible to control everything from music to air conditioning without ever taking your hands off the wheel. This can be incredibly convenient, especially on long drives.

The Cons

But there are also downsides to car touch screens. They can be dangerously distracting, particularly if you’re not familiar with all their features and where they’re located. Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can be risky and potentially fatal.

Minimizing Distractions

Some car manufacturers are addressing these concerns by designing touch screens that can disappear into the dashboard when they’re not in use. Other features that minimize driver distraction include voice controls, heads-up displays that project images onto the windshield, and gesture controls.

Conclusion

In the end, it’s up to individual drivers to determine whether or not car touch screens are right for them. If you can use them without taking your eyes off the road, then they can be a valuable asset. But if you find them distracting, it might be best to stick with traditional buttons and knobs.

If you love your car, would you get a tattoo of it?

Some people are so passionate about their cars that they would consider getting a tattoo of them. It’s not just a way to show off their devotion to their vehicle – for some people, it’s also a way to express themselves creatively.

A recent article on Autotrader titled The Most Tattooed Car Makes and Models is interesting in that it shows which cars are the most popular when it comes to getting inked. Be sure to read the entire article to learn the methodology behind the results. You'll not only see some of the most iconic used car brands for a few surprises along the way.

You Bought A Car And All I Got Was A T-Shirt

While getting a tattoo in general is not a universal sign of car love, it does show a high level of passion for a certain type of vehicle. More traditional examples of car love include, adding aftermarket accessories such as wearing a shirt with the car brand's logo, or getting a keychain or coffee mug with the car's image on it.

Have You Lost That Loving Feeling?

You probably didn't get a tattoo when you bought your car but there was a reason you fell in love with it in the first place. You kept it washed and waxed and couldn't wait to drive it around and show it off.

 Now you're faced with the reality that your car is getting old and you're not sure how much longer you can keep it on the road. You may be dealing with unexpected repair bills that cause you to question whether it's worth it to keep your car.

 Driving a car you don't love anymore is not fun. Why not trade in your old car for a newer model that you can fall in love with all over again?

 If you have been thinking about trading in your car, now is a great time to do it. We make it easy to sell us your car and get something you'll love again. We'll give you a fair price and take care of all the paperwork so you can drive away in style.

You Might Go On Vacation But Car Maintenance Never Should

As we enter the dog days of Summer, family vacations and long road trips become top priorities. But even if you're taking a break from your regular routine, car maintenance should never be put on the back burner.

Getting Prepared To Go

Before hitting the open road, be sure to give your car a once-over to make sure everything is in working order. This includes checking your engine oil, coolant levels, tires, and brakes.

If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, or if you notice anything out of the ordinary, it's always best to take your car to a professional for a thorough inspection.

Once you're on the road, be sure to keep an eye on your vehicle's gauges and warning lights. If anything pops up, don't ignore it! Pull over at the next safe opportunity and check out what's going on.

Don't Sweat or Let The Small Things Bug You

Summer is also a good time to check other items and systems in your car such as the air conditioning, wiper blades, and washer fluid levels. These are all things that you'll be using frequently during the hotter months, so it's important to make sure they're in good working order.

You never know when you might be driving and you get a heavy downpour or you have to clear away some bugs, so it's always best to be prepared.

Always Have A Backup Plan

In general we have become used to using the GPS system on our phones to get us where we need to go. But what happens if you're driving in an unfamiliar area and your phone dies or you lose service?

That's why it's always a good idea to have a physical map on hand as well as a backup plan for directions. It might seem old-fashioned, but there's nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere with no way to get home.

If you're going to be driving in unfamiliar territory or in remote areas, be sure to let someone know your route and estimated time of arrival. That way, if something does happen, someone will know where to start

And last but not least, always remember to drink plenty of water and take breaks often when driving during the summer months. Heat exhaustion is no joke, and it can happen to anyone. So stay hydrated, stay alert, and most importantly, enjoy your summer

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.

7 Steps to Buying Your First Car

Figure out what you can afford Shop around for the best deal Test drive different cars Get a car history report and mechanical inspection Finalize the purchase and register the car Insure your car Enjoy your new ride!

Stick To Your Budget

First time car buyers often make the mistake of rushing into a purchase without doing their research first. This can lead to overpaying for a car that doesn’t fit their needs or budget.

By setting a budget first, you can avoid this common pitfall. Figure out how much you can comfortably afford to spend on a car payment each month. Then, research the Fair Market Range prices for the type of car you’re interested in. This will give you a good starting point

Start Your Research

With an established budget in hand, it’s time to start shopping around for the best deal. There are so many sites online to do research where you can check out safety ratings, available options, interior features and more.

Test Drive Several Cars

After you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to take them for a spin. This will help you get a feel for how the car drives and handles. It’s also a good time to see if there are any additional features that you may want or need.

Get A Car History Report And Mechanical Inspection

Once you’ve found the perfect car, it’s time to do a little digging into its history. A car history report will tell you if the car has been in any accidents or had any major repair work done.

Finalize The Purchase and Register The Car

After you’ve negotiated the price of the car, it’s time to finalize the purchase. This usually involves signing a sales contract and putting down a deposit. The great news is that the dealership will typically handle all the paperwork involved in registering the car.

Insure Your Car

Now that you’re the proud owner of a new car, it’s time to get it insured. The type and amount of coverage you need will vary depending on your state’s laws and your personal driving habits.

Enjoy your new ride!

Buying your first car is a big decision, but we’re here to help make it as easy as possible. We want you to be happy with your purchase and our team will be with you every step of the way.

Contact us today to get started.

Top Hacks To Clean Your Car Inside & Out

Does your car feel old and tired? The upholstery appears a little tattered, and the formerly gleaming windows are now…well, not so shiny. Sure, you could pay someone to clean your car &mdash —or save money by cleaning it yourself.

You can use these tried and true cleaning hacks to get your car clean, both inside and out. After researching we found some great websites that go into great detail. Be sure to visit them for more great tips

How to Clean and Restore Car Headlights

After a few years of usage, the plastic in car headlights oxidizes, causing them to become hazy and yellowish. That film can cause you not to see as well when driving at night. You can use this headlight restoration technique to clean and restore your headlights.

According to Family Handyman there is an easy 4 step process that will restore your headlights

Step 1 - Wash and Sand Horizontally

• Wash the cloudy headlight with warm soapy water.

• Rinse with plenty of clear water, then let it dry.

• Then mask the area around the lens so you don't scratch the paint.

• Soak the sheets of sandpaper in water, then start with the grit that suits your situation.

Sand in one direction.

With sandpaper, the higher the number, the finer the grit. If the headlight is just dull or yellowed, start with the 1,500 grit and work up to the 2,500 grit. If there are light scratches, start with the 1,000-grit paper.

Step 2 - Rinse and Sand Vertically

Rinse and change direction with the next grit. Keep doing this until you're finished with the 2,500-grit paper.

Step 3 - Buff the Lens with Polish

• Wash the headlight with plenty of clear, cool water and dry.

• Wet one corner of the flannel cloth with the polishing compound.

• Using firm pressure, polish the headlight in a circular pattern until it becomes smooth and clear.

Step 4 - Polish the Lens

• Allow the polish to dry, then use the clean end of the cloth to buff off any polish residue.

• Repeat the polishing process.

• Depending on the damage to the headlamp, small areas may still appear foggy. Try re-polishing only those spots with a polishing compound. Buff the area again and inspect. The lens should look perfectly clear!

• To keep foggy headlights clear, wash often with a mild detergent and a soft-bristle brush or sponge, flush with plenty of water and dry.

Never clean clear plastic with wax, polish or any chemical that's not formulated for the task. And that is how to clean headlights yourself!

Credit: Family Handyman

How To Clean Your Car Windows Streak Free

The key to getting your car windows clean and streak free is all about the tools and techniques you use. The great news is that it's not difficult to do, and once you learn how, you'll be able to get your car windows looking amazing in no time.

1. Use a clean, soft microfiber cloth or towel to avoid scratches.

2. When using a cleaning solution, make sure work in small sections

3. Start at the top and work your way down

4. Use a quality glass cleaner

5. Wipe in a circular motion

6. Use a second clean microfiber cloth to dry

7. Polish with a third clean microfiber cloth

How To Clean The Dashboard

The best things to clean your car dashboard according to DetailCentralAve are.

• Vacuum with Attachment

• Soft Microfiber Cloth

• Water and Mild Soap

• Toothbrush or Soft Paint Brush

• Polish

To begin, use your vacuum with brush attachments to vacuum the dash. Attempt to pick up any dust or debris on the dash.

Next, take a soft microfiber cloth, dipped in water, to wipe down your dash. If the interior of your car is particularly grimy, fill a bowl with warm water and mild soap. Use this to wipe the dashboard, steering wheel, hand brake, and interior plastic of your vehicle.

Likely, it will be difficult to clean in the small crevices and vents. Use a toothbrush, soft paintbrush, or designated dash brush to gently remove dirt. Be careful so you don’t scratch the delicate parts of your car.

Once your dash is clean and dry – you can use another dry microfiber cloth to rub down the dash if needed – you can add shine by polishing it. You can pick up a wide variety of polishes at automotive parts stores. Pick the polish of your choice and put a small amount onto a clean and dry cloth, then rub the cloth over the dash. Repeat until the entire dashboard is polished. You can polish the center console as well. If there is excess polish when you rsquo;ve finished, remove with a dry cloth.

Credit: DetailCentralAve

How To Remove Dead Bugs From Your Car's Exterior

The paint on your car's exterior is delicate. When you drive, bugs hit your car and can leave behind stains or etchings in the paint. You may not notice them right away, but over time these can become more visible and difficult to remove.

To remove dead bugs from your car's exterior, start by washing the area with soap and water. Then, using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub the affected area in a circular motion. If the stain is still visible, you can try using a mild abrasive cleaner or rubbing alcohol. Be sure to test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area of your car's exterior first to avoid damaging the paint.

Once you've removed the dead bug stains, be sure to wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint and keep your car looking its best.

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.