Apps for your phone, there’s so many of them. Did you know there’s even apps to help with your car and travel?  We have researched and found some of the top apps that will soon be your vehicle’s sidekick. Our cars are becoming more tech savvy, but we’re still thankful for these apps that do things our car can’t! 

Waze

 Waze is a map app, much like Google or Apple maps, but maybe even better. It’s a daily commuter app, full of time saving tips and tricks! The app warns drivers of traffic jams, road closures, speed traps, construction delays, and even potholes. Another interesting aspect is when more drivers utilize the app, more road data is available because of the frequency of data recorded by drivers. These aspects make planning your commute easy and doesn’t require an account of any kind. 

GasBuddy

 GasBuddy is an app which helps you find the cheapest gas, wherever you are at the time. Like Waze, it relies on crowdsourced data, by drivers reporting gas prices through the app. Then you can use the data shared to find the best and cheapest gas for you. There’s fun perks too like prize drawings for fuel reports. The app by itself is free, but you can get a premium membership which has perks for discounted gas and roadside service. 

Roadtrippers

 Roadtrippers is a road trip planning app, which might be our favorite app we’ve found yet. All you do is enter your start and finish goal, then it will give you some of the coolest “off the beaten path” places throughout your trip. This app helps you escape the tourist bubble, while still finding some of the coolest stops along the way. With this app, you don’t even have to plan a trip, just let the app plan it for you!

Drivvo

Drivvo is one of the best apps to track car expenses and keep on top of your car maintenance. The core of the app requires you to enter the vehicle’s mileage after a fuel up, and it builds a record of your car’s cost to operate over time. This can help with budgeting for car expenses, and helps you know how much money you’ve spent on your car. The app also keeps a log of past vehicle service work and reminds you of upcoming vehicle maintenance that’s needed. 

Turo

 A lot of people don’t know about this app, but Turo is basically an Airbnb for cars. You can choose from a very unique selection of cars, like a truck to help you move, or your dream car for a fun getaway. This would be a great app to use on a vacation, or when you need to rent a car, but there’s no local rentals available. This is both a safe and trusted app, whether you want to find a car or maybe make a little money listing yours. 

Check out all these apps on your next roadtrip or commute to work! We can’t wait to hear what you think about them. 

Tags: drivvo, gasbuddy, roadtrippers, technology, travel tips, turo, waze
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When buying a vehicle, you typically already have one you want to get rid of first, but should you sell it yourself or trade it in through a dealership. This can be a hard decision for many people. Here are some pros and cons of both options!

Trading Your Vehicle Through A Dealership

Pro: Doesn’t take time or much work on your part

The biggest benefit is that the dealership does most of the paperwork for you. Typically, you trade in your vehicle at the dealership you are buying a new car from, so you don’t have to put work into looking for a buyer.

Pro: No denial

It’s very rare to get denied for any trade-in, so you don’t have to worry about not getting rid of your vehicle. You also don’t have to wait for multiple people to look at your vehicle, instead only the dealership needs to look at it and make you an offer!

Pro: No Tax Credit

There is no tax credit when you trade through a dealership. This is really appealing when you break it down. Example: the dealership gives you $10,000 for your trade-in, which then translates into not paying $625 in sales tax on your new purchase. If you think about it, you’re getting $10,625 which is more than you think you’re getting!

Con: Typically, a lower sale value

Dealerships still need to make a profit from trade-ins, so they may offer you less then what you could get out of privately selling your vehicle. The dealer also has to put some cost into it depending on the quality, so that could lower the value they offer as well.

Selling Your Vehicle

Pro: Higher sale value

The buyer of a private sold vehicle is not typically buying the vehicle to sell, so they’re willing to buy it at it’s worth. You set the price instead of the dealership setting it for you, so you can choose how much you want to sell it for.

Pro: You are in control of the purchase

If you want to sell your vehicle in the condition it’s in then you can ask that value for it, but if you decide you’d like to raise the value you could have it detailed, parts fixed, or new parts put on it. You basically decide the quality you want to sell the vehicle in, which will then set the value of the vehicle. Then you can decide who the best buyer is between your various offers.

Con: More work and time on your end

Selling a vehicle means you have to prepare the vehicle, list the vehicle, and find a buyer all on your own. This could take weeks depending on a few factors. Once you do find a buyer you also have to do all the paperwork and do it correctly to make sure the vehicle is transferred to the new owner correctly. Also, make sure you meet in a public place if you do not know the buyer.

Ultimately, it is up to you and what you want out of the vehicle. If it’s a simple process, with little work on your end, but at least a little money then you should trade the car into the dealership. If you have the time to put into selling your vehicle and want to make an at worth value for it, then you should probably choose to sell it on your own. Neither choice is a bad one.

Tags: car value, sell, trade
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Not all parents want the same type of vehicle, therefore, we researched the top 3 areas most parents value in a family vehicle. Being a parent can already be stressful enough, so here are 3 tips to help take the stress off buying one.

Safety

Safety is the number one feature valued by parents because they want to protect their families. Both parents usually look through many consumer reports and crash tests to see how the vehicle they are interested in will perform in an accident. Other important safety features to them include airbag locations, child safety locks and latches for child car seats. 

Size

The size need in a vehicle depends on the size and age of the family. Car seats can take up a lot of room and really determine how much space is needed for seating. If the parents don’t have any kids in car seats, they might have sports gear and three of their kid’s friends to haul around during sports season. Whatever the reason may be, a roomy vehicle is very important to parents so their family can be comfortable when traveling. 

Affordability

The third factor parents’ desire in a vehicle is typically its value for their family. They don’t want to break the budget when it comes to the vehicle, insurance, and gas. This factor has one of the biggest impacts on their family, especially when parenting can already be expensive. Most parents love a good deal or getting the biggest bang for their buck out of anything, including a vehicle. 

If you’re a parent currently searching for a vehicle perfect for your family, consider these three factors that most parents appreciate in any vehicle! 

Tags: affordability, buyingacar, size
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Shopping for a new car can sometimes be stressful, but we’re currently living in a virtual based world. How would you feel about purchasing a car completely on-line? This is an option that is becoming more and more possible, even through local dealerships! The real problem is now, “how do I even go about buying or shopping for a car on-line?”

Let us help by breaking down the easy steps to this process, so you can do it confidently!  

1. Make sure you have a budget set. 

When setting this number, don’t set it based on your monthly payment, but instead set it on the total cost of the vehicle, possible including interest. This will help you begin to narrow your search. 

2. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan. 

You can easily shop for loans through credit unions, banks, and other lenders on-line or through the phone. If you know the dealership you plan to buy through, call them so they can begin helping you get pre-approved for a loan. 

3. Find the right model for you.

If you don’t know the type of car you want, start doing research within your budget, look at car rankings and ratings. If you know your needs in a car, start using those to narrow your search even more. Websites such as Kelly Blue Book and Cars.com can be very helpful when it comes to researching cars and pricing. 

4. Look at your local dealership’s used cars on-line. 

If you are considering a used car, look on-line to see what the dealership has to offer. You can always call to talk about the car with a salesman or do your own research. Look up the dealership’s social media too, because typically they will post current car deals on it for both new and used. 

5. Take a test drive.

Obviously, this takes you away from strictly being on-line, but if you want to test drive there’s always an option, especially if it will help you narrow down your search. Many dealerships now offer test drives at your own home, where a salesman will bring the car to your home. 

6. Get your car delivered or finish it up at the dealership. 

Depending on the dealership you might have to go there to finalize your purchase, but many dealerships can now bring the paperwork and car to your home! If you do decide to go to the dealership make sure you know all the paperwork needed for the salesman so you won’t have to make several stops. 

These steps will vary based on where you live and how much of the process you truly want to be virtual, but these will guide you through the main steps. Start shopping on-line today, especially if you’re in need of a new car, but prefer to stay home! 

Tags: buy a new car, buying a used car
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Traveling with kids can be a lot at times, but how about traveling with your “fur babies”? Lots of individuals and families now travel with their pets regularly, maybe even daily! Pets are basically like little humans, but most people don’t practice car safety when traveling with them. Let’s look at 5 simple steps to take so you and your fur baby can be safe while traveling!

Place them in a crate or traveling seatbelt

People love their pets, everyone knows this, but there really are several things a pet can do to cause an accident. The number one way to keep them contained and avoid an accident is properly placing your pet in a crate, cage, or animal seatbelt system. This allows the pet to be contained, while traveling with you.

Don’t let your pet in the front seat

This is such a crucial safety rule when it comes to pets in cars. No matter what type of animal or how big they might be, the front seat is no place for them because airbags are not designed with your pet in mind. Yes, this safety tip means no holding your pet while you’re driving either. Your animal could cause you to have an accident while you’re holding them. Make sure you keep your pet in the back seat or in the back of the car because their cuddles are not worth both of your lives! 

Make sure your pet has identification

This is really important in case you are ever in an accident, or your pet escapes out of the car. It’s actually fairly common for a dog to run after another dog or squirrel when stopped on a road trip. An identification tag at least gives your pet a chance of being returned. If you happen to be in an accident, it can also help an officer identify who you are if your name is on their tag. 

Pay attention to a dog’s head out of the window

This safety tip is dog specific, but it’s important to pay attention to when you’re driving. Everyone knows most dogs love having their head out the window, but you should monitor how often they do this because it can result in ear infections. The other thing to pay attention to is how far your dog’s head is out of the window because if they’re constantly sticking it out too far, they could risk getting hit by something outside of the window. 

Pack for your pets 

Just like you pack for yourself, whether it’s your wallet or suitcase, it’s important to have items in your car for your pet as well. A water dish or water bottle, plus maybe a little food is always helpful to have on hand for any pet. A leash and poop bags are also handy to keep in the car just in case you have to use either of them. 

Traveling with your pets can be fun and easy, but it’s important to keep both them and yourself safe. These few simple steps can help save you from an accident and keep your fur babies safe while traveling. Your pet will thank you for caring for them so well and so will others on the road! 

Tags: animals, cats, dogs, trips
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Kids and traveling, how do those two words together make you feel? Those words are a nightmare for so many because kids are so quick to get bored, bicker with siblings and make the car a mess pretty quickly. Road trips don’t have always have to be dreaded, especially with a few car hacks to keep your car organized and your kids entertained. 

1. Tackle box for snacks

Car rides can be long at times or even cross over times of the day your child would usually eat a snack. If you’re going on long road trip this snack-hack is definitely for you! Go to your local Walmart, hardware store, or even on Amazon to buy a clear lure box with removable dividers. There are several different sizes you can buy based on your preference. 

Fill each compartment with different snacks such as: raisins, goldfish, nuts, mini cookies, nuts, dried fruit, candy, etc. Then when you’re in the car you can explain to your kids these are all their snacks for the road trip or you can refill them as you go, whatever you prefer. The boxes are easily washed out, refilled, or even decorated for another fun activity! 

2. Plastic cereal dispenser for a trash can

This one is pretty simple, but a great trick to keep your car clean. Go to the Dollar Store, Amazon or Walmart and buy a plastic container for cereal storage with a pouring lid. Put this container in your car and add a plastic bag or small garbage bag on the inside. Then when your kids have trash in the car they can pop open the pour lid, put the trash inside, and close it shut. This could also be really helpful if you have someone who struggles with car sickness because it easily can contain the smell. 

3. Silicone cupcake liners for cup holders

Not many people know about these, but they now make silicone cupcake liners so they can be reused instead of thrown away. These might be a little harder to find in store, but they can easily be ordered on Amazon for cheap. Put one in each cup holder, especially by your kid’s seat for all the spills and leaks. They are easy to wipe out, can be thrown in the dishwasher, and will save you from constantly wiping out that sticky car cup holder. 

4. Travel soap boxes for easy storage

Not sure how many people still use soap bar travel cases, but they can still be found at the Dollar Store or on Amazon. The best item to store in these are Crayons because they fit perfectly! You can also use the boxes to store cards, magnets, or any other small items your kids might use for activities in the car. They take up very little space and also prevent all the little pieces from ending up all around your car. 

5. Cutting board for a kids table

Ever wished there were tables in cars, even if it was a small one like they have in planes? Now dreams of having a car table can finally come true by using a metal baking sheet! This idea is perfect for kids to use as a table for drawing, keep things in place, play with magnets, or even to play cards with siblings. When your child decides they’re done with the tray it can easily be stored under a seat or in between the console and passenger seat. 

6. Window drawing

All you need for this fun car entertainment idea is a couple dry erase markers and a basic winter glove of any size. These items can be found in many different stores, but we’ve linked them through Amazon. Windows can work just like dry erase boards, so your kids can draw on the windows and easily erase it with the glove. The drawings and games are endless especially since it can all be erased. This creative idea might not be for toddlers, nor will every parent like the idea, but it is fun!

7. Sticky note count down

This one is simple, but could save you from the constant, “are we there yet?” question. Before going on your road trip pick up a package of sticky notes from any local store. Each sticky note will serve as numbers for a countdown on how much further or how much more time you have left on your trip. You can decide whether you want to go by miles, hours, or half hour increments. You can let your kids decorate each sticky note and work together to stick them on the car windows or dash board. Then while you’re on your trip they will slowly be removed the closer you get to your destination. It lessens the questions, while also giving your kids something to occupy their minds! 

8. Dollar store shower caddy to serve meals and drinks 

How often do you get fast food and face the nightmare of trying to help your child hold all the pieces of their meal on their lap? Or maybe you pass it back piece by piece? This small shower caddy could be your new best friend because it provides space for a drink and two compartments to place the food in the caddy.  You can place the meal in the caddy and then easily pass it back for your child to enjoy since everything is all in one place. These caddies can easily be found at the Dollar Store or on Amazon in multiple colors so each kid can have their own!

9. Travel binder

This idea takes a little more work, but could be a lifesaver on a long car ride. The supplies you use are based on your own opinion and your child’s age. You need a binder either one or two inch which can be found in several stores on Amazon, a three-hole punch, and then lots of activity sheets. These activity sheets could vary from coloring pages to word searches, even printable car games! This binder can keep your child entertained for hours, especially if they have no access to it before the ride begins. 

If you want to make the binder reusable then all you need are page slips, dry erase markers, and an eraser. You will just have to put the activity sheets in each cover, which you also wouldn’t need a hole punch for because they come pre-punched!

10. Suctioned shower trays 

This is another idea to keep all your kid’s small toys, food, or even cards organized and off the floor. All you need is a plastic shower tray that has suction cups so it can stick on your car window. These trays can be found in several stores and online in many different shapes and sizes. 

Tags: family, family vacatioins, tips for trips, travel, trip with kids, trips
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The cabin air filter is a part of every car, but many do not know much about the part. The purpose of the filter is to clean the air that comes into a car through the air-conditioning, heat, and vent system. The filter catches airborne material like dust to prevent respiratory problems in a car. 

Did you know a cabin air filter should typically be replaced every 12-15,000 miles? Have you ever had your filter replaced? Aside from mileage you should also pay attention to the air flow, noise from your air system, and bad odors. These could be signs that your cabin air filter needs changed. 

Cabin air filters can be located in a couple places within your car, typically behind the glove box or under the car dashboard. If you want to find and replace it yourself, you should be able to find details about it in the owner’s manual. If you would prefer to have someone do it for you, your local dealership can check and replace it fairly quick! 

If you replace your filter or have it replaced, look at the inside of it, especially if it’s been a while. There are many things that can be found inside of the filter including bugs, sticks, and grime. Let’s just say what you see, typically will make you want to replace it more often! 

When it comes to looking for a replacement filter, there are several options because there are several different filter materials, makes, and longevity in various filters. In order to figure out which one is best for your car, do a quick Google search or contact your local dealership for a recommendation. 

Whether you have a funky smell in your car or just feel like the ventilation system isn’t working well, check your cabin air filter. It’s important to breathe easy while you’re driving, so don’t forget to replace it! 

Tags: automobiles, breathe easier in vehcile, cabin air filters, car air filter, filter replacment, service
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The spread of the Corona Virus is the biggest topic in our world right now. You have probably disinfected your bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, but what about your cars? Do you think you can catch a virus from your car’s surfaces? Well the answer is YES, you absolutely can so we’ve collected some great tips to help you reduce the spread of the virus in your car!

1. What should I use to clean my vehicle?

Soap and water are always the best choice because it limits the amount of chemicals in your car, but alcohol is the most common cleaner used by automotive manufacturers. A natural cleaner sprayed on a paper towel or microfiber cloth can work well too. 

Statistics say the steering wheel has four times the amount of germs found on the average toilet seat! GROSS! Disinfecting products such as Lysol wipes can be used, especially for common surfaces like the steering wheel and radio, but use sparingly on leather seats. 

2. What products should I NOT use to clean my vehicle?

Never use hydrogen peroxide or bleach on your vehicle because it’ll damage your surfaces. Also never use ammonia-based products such as Windex on leather or radio touch screens because it will break down the material and damage it. 

MAKE SURE YOU NEVER COMBINE THESE PRODUCTS BELOW!

• Rubbing Alcohol + Bleach = Toxic Chloroform
• Bleach + Vinegar = Toxic Chlorine Gas
• Baking Soda + Vinegar = Ineffective Cleaning Solution
• Ammonia + Bleach = Toxic Chloramine Vapors
• Hydrogen Peroxide + Vinegar = Toxic Peracetic Acid

3. How often should I disinfect my car?

Disinfecting your car depends on how often you are driving. If you are driving daily, consider using a disinfecting wipe at the end of every day to wipe down your steering wheel, door handles, and radio. If you’re not driving often then just disinfect after a few uses or when you’ve been somewhere with lots of people. 

4. Wash your hands and sanitize!

The easiest way to prevent this virus from being on your car’s surfaces is by washing your hands! Wash your hands before you get in the car, when you get out, and sanitize before and after you get out in public areas, especially gas pumps! Keep a hand sanitizer in your car with at least 70% alcohol in it to use. 

5. Think about the interactions you’ll have before you get in your car!

If you’re going to get fast food, make sure you have your sanitizer to put on your hands before you get to the window and after they return your card and food. Know you need gas? Make sure you have napkins or Lysol wipes ready so you don’t touch the buttons or gas pump. Daily coffee run, just bring your own cup, immediately pour the drink in it and dispose of the store cup. 

Wash your hands, ALWAYS. Disinfect when you can. Try to think ahead! It’s important we stay clean, especially in our cars. Use these simple tips and stay healthy!

Tags: car cleaning tips, cleaning, disinfect, sanitize, washing
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The rainy season is here, which means when you’re driving you depend on your wiper blades a lot. It’s important you’re not that person leaning down so you can see under the water smudge or having to pull over because your wipers just aren’t doing their job. If you are that person or you just want to learn what wipers are best, then keep reading below for our recommendations when it comes to wiper blades. 

How often should I change my wiper blades?

Wipers should be changed twice a year. You can easily check your wipers by running your fingers up and down the rubber part to see if there are any ridges or cracks in the rubber. Another way to check your wipers is to turn them on and spray your cleaner, if there are any streaks or blurs left then you need to replace your wipers. 

How do I know which wipers to buy?

Wiper blades come in various sizes, which means they’re not universal for every vehicle. Look at your vehicle’s user manual or talk to someone at your local dealership or auto-parts store about which size is best for your car. Don’t worry, wipers are easy to install or you can have the dealership or auto-parts store install them for you. The type of wipers you buy are important so we included some of our top recommendations below!

Two of our top brands are Nissan Value Advantage Wiper and Mopar wiper blades. We carry both of these brands in our dealership, both in various sizes and models. They have great price points, along with versatility when it comes to their model options. As for other various wipers we have listed our top 4 depending on what you are wanting the wipers to do for your windshield.

Bosch ICON Wiper Blades– A higher price point, but also a longer life span than most blades. If you don’t live in an area with all types of weather then this might not be the best choice for you, but if you want a universal blade when it comes to weather this is your best choice. 

ANCO 31-series– This is one of the most budget friendly options and a top pick for those of you who do not experience much rain or snow. Although these are very budget friendly, if you get snow and ice these won’t last near as long as other wipers. 

Aero Premium All-Season Windshield Wiper Blades– These wipers are a perfect choice for those who live in the Midwest, especially during summer and fall. They have a great price point and reviewers love their ease when it comes to installation. 

Michelin Stealth Ultra Hybrid Wiper Blades– Last, but not least our pick for a top winter wiper choice. These feature a rubber blend different from others so the blade remains flexible through snow and ice. This wiper would be a great choice for your second change of the year, so you can be well prepared for the winter season. 

Tags: best wipers, rain, rainy days, wipers
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Now that winter is behind us and spring has decided to make an appearance, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning – for your vehicle! Winters can be harsh on your car, which makes spring the perfect time to do some good maintenance and a deep clean.

Oil Change. A good rule of thumb is to get an oil change approximately every 5000 miles.  It’s an easy and inexpensive part of your vehicle maintenance and it really helps extend the efficiency and reliability of your vehicle.

A GOOD Car Wash – Inside and Out. More than just the aesthetic of having a clean car, giving your vehicle a good wash at the start of spring is a step toward maintaining the overall health of your car. Road salt left on the exterior for too long can deplete the color and corrode the metal. (And spring rain showers are not enough to rinse off all that winter grime). Don’t forget the wash the undercarriage as well – this is where a lot of the road salt tends to sit and cause problems.

Don’t forget about the interior.  Winter tends to encourage a trash buildup in the doors, nooks and crannies of vehicles. Take 20 minutes after your car wash and vacuum out the entire inside.

Replace Wiper Blades. Winter can be very harsh on wiper blades and small tears and cracks can appear without you being able to see them. With the onslaught of spring showers, you want to make sure that your wiper blades are up to snuff.

Check Tire Pressure and Alignment. Your tires are literally the cushion between you and the road, so it’s especially important to take care of them. We recommend checking your tire pressure monthly. Most newer vehicles will send you an alert when one or more tires has fallen below the recommended level.

Check the tread for wear and tear. Roads can be very slippery during spring rain storms, so you want to make sure you’re able to stop without sliding. You’ll want to rotate and align them in the spring as well.

Change Air Filters. You may not be using that AC just yet, but before it becomes an absolute necessity, make sure that your air filters are unclogged and replace them if necessary.

Review Your Insurance Policy. This is one of the vehicle maintenance items that people always forget about. Oftentimes, your agent will proactively reach out to you every so often, but if they don’t, spring is a good time to be proactive about it yourself. Are you in the most efficient policy for your family? Will you be adding a new teen driver to your policy soon? Call your agent and find out if there are any deals or discounts that you can get as well.

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