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Routinely swapping the tires on your Mitsubishi Mirage, Eclipse Cross, or Outlander is essential to reduce uneven wear and improve your car's performance. A tire rotation from the qualified technicians at your Mitsubishi dealer will make your tires last longer, saving you money and keeping you safe behind the wheel. more Rotation Intervals Generally, to reap all the great benefits of regular rotations, it's best to switch your car's tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every time you take your vehicle for an oil change. Some signs will warn you when it's time to swap your tires, but it's best to rotate them before your tires show signs of uneven wear. Rotation Signs If you notice that your front tires are worn more on one side than the other, you'll need to switch your tires to sort out the problem. If the front tires are wearing down faster than the rear tires or vice versa, swap the tires to ensure the wear is spread evenly across all four tires. If the wear is extreme, ask your technician for a thorough tire inspection to determine if you need to replace the tires. Uneven wear will cause vibrations you'll feel through your steering wheel that will affect handling and performance. Rotate the tires and ask your technician to check if you need the tires balanced and aligned. If you notice any of these signs, swap your car's tires as soon as possible to prevent further tire damage that could lead to replacing the entire set. Rotation Patterns The rotation patterns differ depending on the type of car you drive. The front tires on a front-wheel drive car will wear down faster, and the rear tires on a rear-wheel drive will wear faster. Front-Wheel-Drive (FWD) Vehicles The technician will mount your front tires to the rear if you drive an FWD. The rear tires will be crossed over and fitted to the front. This means mounting the back right tire on the front left side and moving the rear left tire to the front right side of your car. Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD) Vehicles On rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the rear tires move straight to the front, keeping them on the same side. The front tires are swapped and mounted to the back. All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) Vehicles The technician will swap the right front and left rear tires if you drive an AWD. The left front and right rear tires change positions. Rotation Benefits Regular rotations will ensure even tread wear, reduce vibrations and increase your car's performance. Your tires will last longer, and you won't have to replace your tires as often, saving you money. Every time a Mitsubishi technician performs a rotation, your tires will also be checked for thread wear and damage and inflated to the proper pressure levels. Check your owner's manual for the rotation intervals and the correct rotation patterns for your specific model, or ask your Mitsubishi technician for assistance. Stop at Rath Mitsubishi today for a rotation to prolong the life of your tires and enjoy a smoother ride.

Taking care of your vehicle needs should be easy and stress-free, and that is why you should always count on the experts. There is only one place you can trust for superior new and pre-owned vehicles and top-quality services, maintenance, and repairs. The staff at your Mitsubishi dealership has the knowledge, expertise, and specialized equipment to ensure that your car always runs optimally. 5 Essential Services You'll Find at Your Friendly Tigard Mitsubishi Dealership 1. Superior New and Pre-Owned Vehicles We are proud to offer you a huge inventory of superior new and pre-owned vehicles. From quality sedans to SUVs, your dream car is here at our dealership waiting for you. Our expert staff will assist you in choosing the right model to suit your lifestyle and budget. You can visit us at the dealership or browse our new and pre-owned inventory online on our website and choose the right vehicle that is perfect for you. 2. Top-Quality Maintenance and Repairs We are here to take care of all your maintenance and repair requirements. Our Mitsubishi-trained technicians know every part, component, and system that keeps your vehicle running. They will perform top-quality maintenance and repairs using specialized technology and genuine Mitsubishi parts. Our maintenance and repair services include the following and more: Preventative vehicle maintenance General repairs Engine diagnostics Tune-ups Fluid and filter checks and corrections Transmission services Brake checks and repair Battery inspections and replacements Radiator and cooling system repairs Air conditioning and heater services Alternator inspections and repairs 3. Oil Changes Your vehicle needs an oil change every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Check your owner's manual or speak to one of our expert technicians on the recommended oil changes for your specific model. Regular oil changes will ensure that all the parts are well lubricated and running smoothly. When you change your vehicle's oil regularly, you will save money in the long run and avoid expensive repairs. 4. Expert Tire Installations We know your car and what tires are the best for the model you drive. We stock all the major tire brands at competitive prices, and our trained technicians will expertly install the correct tires for your vehicle. To give you added peace of mind, we offer a two-year road hazard coverage on all eligible tires. 5. 24-Hour Roadside Assistance We are there when you need us, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With your new Mitsubishi, you receive 24-hour emergency roadside assistance for five years regardless of the mileage on your vehicle. We will tow your vehicle after an accident to the nearest Mitsubishi dealer for repairs. We will jump-start your car, change a flat tire, and deliver fluid and fuel to you. If you locked yourself out of your vehicle or you need minor repairs, don't worry. We'll sort out the problem in no time. Just phone us on our Roadside Assistance toll-free number and get the help you need fast to get you back on the road. Always know that your dealership offers you all the services you need to keep your Mitsubishi in tip-top running condition. Contact Rath Mitsubishi today. We offer only top-quality services, maintenance, and repairs performed by our highly qualified, factory-trained technicians. Image via Pixabay

There is only one way to ensure that your Mitsibushi is reliable, fuel-efficient, and safe. By following the Mitsubishi service schedule and factory-recommended maintenance intervals, you will enjoy many miles behind the wheel. Regular maintenance performed by qualified Mitshubishi technicians will give you peace of mind that your vehicle will always get you to your destination. more 5 Things to Know About Your Mitsubishi Service Schedule 1. The Importance of the Service Schedule The service schedule is a guide created by the Mitsubishi manufacturer to assist you in maintaining your vehicle. It contains information on when your Mitsubishi needs a service and the maintenance tasks that need to be performed. It is crucial to adhere to your vehicle's service schedule to ensure that your Mitsubishi continues to perform at its best. You will find your vehicle's service schedule is in your owner's manual. 2. The Factory Recommended Maintenance Intervals The service schedule contains maintenance intervals when qualified technicians must perform factory-recommended maintenance tasks. These maintenance tasks are recommended by Mitsubishi and are vital to ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly. Every Mitsubishi model has its own service schedule and factory-recommended maintenance intervals. Generally, Mitsubishi maintenance intervals are between 7,500 and 10,000 miles. Your owner's manual contains the maintenance intervals for your specific Mitsubishi model. You can also speak to your Mitsubishi technician for information on the required maintenance intervals and tasks that need to be performed. 3. Maintenance Services During each maintenance interval, specific maintenance tasks need to be performed. The service schedule contains a list of the required maintenance tasks at each interval. The inspections, fluid checks and corrections, adjustments, and parts replacements must be performed by qualified technicians at the factory-recommended maintenance intervals to ensure that your Mitsubishi continues to run optimally. 4. How Often Your Vehicle Needs Maintenance How often your vehicle will need servicing will depend on the model you drive, the year, the engine type, and your driving habits. The operating conditions will also determine how often you need maintenance to be performed. Normal Driving Conditions The operating conditions influence how often your vehicle will need to be serviced. When you drive your car with care, regularly check the fluid levels, and adhere to the recommended maintenance intervals, less frequent maintenance services will be required. Severe Driving Conditions You will have to service your vehicle more frequently if you drive under severe driving conditions. These conditions include driving in heavy traffic, tow heavy loads, and extreme temperatures. If you drive on uneven, dusty, and muddy roads, your car will also require more maintenance. 5. Maintenance Benefits You will reap many benefits and save money when you follow the service schedule and allow a qualified Mitsubishi technician to perform maintenance services. Your vehicle will be in excellent running condition, saving you money on gas and unexpected repairs. You will have the assurance that your car is reliable, fuel-efficient, safe, and be on the road for longer. The service schedule is there to assist you in maintaining your Mitsubishi to ensure that your car continues to be a pleasure to drive. Contact Auto World Mitsubishi today for a maintenance appointment. Our qualified and experienced Mitsubishi technicians will perform an expert maintenance service to ensure that your vehicle is in tip-top condition. Image via Pixabay

When you're out on the road, you never know what might happen. It's always best to be prepared, which is why it's really important to keep a few key items in your car, just in case. These bits and pieces can make a huge difference when you're out on the road, so read on for a list of 5 essential items you should have in your car tool kit at all times. more 5 Items Every Driver Should Have in a Car Tool Kit 1. First Aid Kit Even a first aid kit that's as basic as a few plasters and antiseptic wipes is an essential part of every driver's inventory. It's a great source of basic medical supplies when you're out and about and could also be used to patch you up after a minor accident. While it's no substitute for professional medical attention, a well-stocked first aid kit can still be invaluable. You can usually buy a ready-stocked kit from most pharmacies which you can then add to as you go. Painkillers, motion sickness tablets, and a few basic bandages are always useful. 2. Jumper Cables Keeping an eye on your battery is always a good idea. A failed battery can leave you stranded, something that's particularly unpleasant in cold weather when batteries are most likely to fail. Even if your battery is brand-new and in tip-top condition, most drivers have managed to drain their batteries at some point in their lives just by leaving their headlamps or heating on. A set of jumper cables are all you need to get you out of this sort of fix. They also allow to you play the good Samaritan to any unlucky drivers you encounter who've neglected to pack this essential item. Make sure you keep them in good condition; rusty contacts can stop them from working just when you need them the most. 3. Screwdrivers A set of Philips and flathead screwdrivers is an inexpensive investment that can be extremely useful if you need to change a headlight, remove a faulty windscreen wiper, or any number of other minor roadside fixes. 4. Towing Rope or Strap Keeping a towing strap, chain or strong rope in your car could make life a lot easier if you break down on the side of the road. It could be enough to get you home if you find yourself in difficulty and spare you the strain on your wallet from a tow company. They can often be found at hardware stores at a very reasonable price. 5. Warning Triangle These little pieces of kit are so useful that you're actually required to carry one in some jurisdictions. Their purpose is to make your car more visible to passing motorists if you've broken down on the side of the highway. They're always reflected and are designed to be placed some distance behind your car, so passing drivers can see you and have time to slow down and pass safely. These simple items can be a godsend if you find yourself in a sticky situation. What equipment do you carry in your car? Visit us at Rath Mitsubishi and let us know. Image via Pixabay

Headlights provide the vision for your vehicle. If they don't work properly, it will be difficult to see your surroundings. You need to make sure they are in top condition, especially for night driving. Even the smallest dimming or fogging of your headlights can reduce your ability to see ahead and lead to dangerous situations. Here are some signs that you might need some new headlights from your Mitsubishi dealer in Springdale, AR. more Mitsubishi Dealer Springdale, AR: Do You Need New Headlights? Lenses That Are Cracked or Broken You should replace your cracked or broken headlight lenses immediately. This will not only make it difficult for them to shine properly but also illegal. Driving at night can be dangerous because the light will scatter, making it unsafe. This can be dangerous for other drivers who are in front of you. If you see a broken light, don't wait. To avoid getting a ticket and keep everyone safe, it is important to act quickly. Dimming Beams Your headlights will wear over time if you drive a lot. Damage can be caused to your headlights from road debris, rocks, and salt, and over time this will produce a dimming effect and will reduce the light output from your vehicle. Corroded wires can also cause dimming and can make your light appear yellower. It's natural for this kind of wear and tear to occur and is something that you can stay on top of with regular maintenance. Too Many Bulb Changes There's a good possibility that your headlights need to be replaced if you are constantly changing your bulbs. This could be due to moisture getting into the component and causing damage over time. A corroded socket or loose connection can also lead to premature bulb burning. Not only is constantly changing bulbs a hassle, but it can be pricey too. It's time for service if the burnouts aren't in line with the standard milestones. Flickering Lights Flickering lights are usually a sign of an electrical problem. This can be caused by defective wiring or battery problems. Flickering lights can be intermittent or continuous. It is dangerous for everyone on the road when this kind of situation occurs. After flickering, they may stop working altogether. This is an indication that your vehicle should be serviced immediately. Foggy Headlights Your headlights can become cloudy from moisture. This will not only reduce the amount of light hitting the road, but it will also cause problems with your bulbs, making them less efficient and causing them to eventually burn out. Make sure your headline component is properly sealed to avoid moisture seeping in and causing trouble. This is especially important if you live in a rainy climate under the constant threat of precipitation. You may need new lights if you are experiencing any of the common problems listed above. Neglecting this important part of your vehicle can be dangerous and lead to much bigger problems down the road. Head down to Rath Mitsubishi today and let our professional and top-notch team of technicians take care of you.

Driving in the beautiful state of Arkansas is a wonderful adventure, but it can also be tough on your car. Every part of your vehicle will experience some wear if driven long enough, but the transmission usually takes the most abuse. Knowing the signs of a struggling transmission is key in diagnosing a problem early and minimizing the permanent damage. Transmission service will help you stay safe and get back on the road in no time. more Signs You Should See Us for Transmission Service Slipping Gears Similar to oil changes and fluid inspections, transmissions require regular service to continue working properly. If you've noticed your vehicle slipping in and out of gear, your transmission needs to be serviced immediately. Gear slips can be extremely dangerous, especially if it happens when on challenging roads or hills. Fluid Leak Any time fluid is leaking from your vehicle, inspect it immediately. Sometimes it's just condensation buildup from running the air conditioner, but most leaks stem from fluids that are necessary for the function of your car. If a red or brown fluid has started creating dark spots on the pavement under your car, your transmission fluid is leaking. Many transmission issues stem from low fluid levels. Ignoring leaks can cause the system to overheat and result in permanent damage. Burning Smell A burning smell coming from your vehicle should be investigated immediately. If that odor is coming from your transmission, then the transmission fluid has begun to break down and the whole system is running too hot. When this happens, an increase in friction can cause engine corrosion. The fluid should be flushed immediately and the transmission and engine should be inspected for any damage before it's safe to drive. Shaking or Uneven Idling Your car is designed to have good suspension and even transitions, which equals a smooth ride every time. If your vehicle has begun to have a subtle vibration or if there is a shimmy or shaking while idling, your transmission will usually be the culprit. Allowing the vehicle to continue behaving this way can cause further grinding that will compromise the engine and transmission. Shifting Difficulty For the safety of your vehicle and others on the road, your car should always shift immediately when you command it to. Delays or difficulty in changing gears are indicative of transmission trouble. Regardless of a manual or automatic transmission, rough transitions or delayed gear responses are never safe and require service. Poor Acceleration A hindrance in acceleration, either from a full stop or while already moving, could be related to your transmission. If your car isn't responding to the gas pedal the way it should, it could be a sign of a larger issue. If any of these warning signs sound familiar or if you have another question about your vehicle, call or stop by Rath Mitsubishi today and let us check it out. Knowing what to look for will help you and your technician catch any problems as soon as possible to prevent prolonged damage. Image via Pixabay

For quality workmanship and reliable repairs, look no further than your Mitsubishi dealer. With us, you have the peace of mind that your Mitsubishi repair will be done by factory-trained technicians, using cutting-edge technology and Genuine OEM Parts. Best of all, with your New Vehicle Warranty and extended Diamond Care Protection Plan, your repairs are covered. more 6 Steps to Getting a Quality Mitsubishi Repair 1. Schedule an Appointment at Your Authorized Dealership When it comes to your Mitsubishi, trust the people who know your vehicle and are trained to maintain and repair it. We've made scheduling an appointment with us easy and convenient. You can phone us directly or schedule an appointment online. One of our customer specialists will schedule an appointment at a time that is most convenient for you. 2. Check Our Repair Discounts and Specials While you're on the website, have a look at our great deals and discounts. We regularly offer our customers money-saving deals on services, repairs, parts, and more. You can also discuss our latest discount offers with one of our friendly customer specialists when you bring your vehicle in for repair. 3. Leave Your Car in Our Capable Hands At our service center, our factory-trained Mitsubishi technicians have the knowledge and experience to expertly fix any repair. They know your vehicle inside and out, and they have the skills to repair it perfectly to its original condition. Our technicians use advanced equipment to ensure that all repairs are of the highest quality and meet our high Mitsubishi standards. 4. Insist on OEM Parts You can rest assured that we only install high-quality Genuine OEM Parts when we repair your vehicle. These parts are manufactured for your vehicle and have undergone rigorous tests to ensure durability and safety. Genuine OEM Parts will ensure that your Mitsubishi continues to perform at its best, stay reliable, fuel-efficient, and safe on the road. 5. Remember You Are Covered When you bring your vehicle in for repairs at an authorized dealership, you have the peace of mind that you are covered. The 5-year or 60,000 miles New Vehicle Limited Warranty covers all parts, except the battery, tires, air conditioner, refrigerant, light bulbs, and selected entertainment and navigation system components. The part will be repaired and replaced using Genuine OEM Parts. 6. Make Sure You Have a Diamond Care Protection Plan This plan protects you against those unforeseen and sometimes costly repairs after your warranty expires. We offer the Diamond Care Protection Plan with the New Vehicle Limited Warranty to give you that extra protection when you need it most. The plan has a choice of options, terms, and coverage as long as your car is still eligible for the Basic New Vehicle Limited Warranty. For top-quality repairs, your dealership has you covered in more ways than one. We offer you expert technicians, quality repairs, Genuine OEM Parts, and outstanding customer services. Contact Rath Mitsubishi today. We pride ourselves on supplying our customers with the very best in automotive repairs and services.

Your Mitsubishi has many parts that help it operate efficiently, and one minor issue can lead to costly problems down the road. The trained technicians at dealership facilities know what to look for to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Here are seven services you can always find at your Mitsubish i dealer: 1. Oil and Filter Change The oil and filter are vital components to your Mitsubishi's engine performance and longevity. Frequent oil and filter changes keep the engine cool, prevents excessive engine wear, and ensures long term reliability. Skipping the recommended oil change intervals can cause engine sludge, obstructing oil passage, and restricting oil flow. Dealerships offer expert oil and filter change in all types of motor oil, including: more Conventional oil High-mileage oil Synthetic blend oil Full synthetic oil 2. Tire Rotation and Inflation Your vehicle's tires wear at different rates on the steering and drive axles. Front tires tend to wear much more quickly than rear tires. Proper tire rotation at your local dealership helps to even out the differential wear characteristics and maximize tread life. Inflation check is essential as underinflated tires significantly reduce durability, tread life, and fuel economy. 3. Brake Service The brake system needs regular checkups and servicing. Brake pads press against a metal disc to stop your car and will wear out over time. Luckily, dealership technicians will check the brake pads thickness during tire rotation and advice when you need to change them. The brake fluid might absorb water from the air, eventually corroding your internal brakes hydraulic system, and should be checked as well. 4. Fuel System Cleaning Carbon and dirt particles flow through your fuel system every second the engine is running. The flow of fuel is affected as the buildup grows, resulting in low fuel economy, loss of engine power, and decreased drivability. Visiting your dealership for fuel system cleaning will restore your engine's performance and economy. 5. OEM parts Dealerships only use and have a vast inventory of Original Equipment Manufacturer parts and accessories. Whether you want the expert technicians to install them for you or to take care of your repairs at home, the knowledgeable staff will help you get the quality car parts you need. 6. Differential Service The differential conveys input from the transmission to the wheels. Over time, the gear oil loses viscosity, lubricating the differential and wheel bearings less effectively. The technicians will also service the transfer case along with the differential. Mitsubishi provides a maintenance schedule for your vehicle's differential and transfer case fluids. 7. Transmission Fluid Service Just like motor oil, vehicle use contaminates the transmission fluid over time. The dealership technicians will check the transmission filter, clean the transmission pan, and generally make sure this crucial vehicle system is working correctly. Your Mitsubishi owner's manual offers guidelines on transmission filter and fluid changes. Servicing your car at the dealership is essential, and the right approach because you can be sure of quality maintenance and repair. Visit Rath Mitsubishi in Springdale, AR, for expert services.

While basic washing and waxing are essential to maintaining your vehicle, sometimes you need to get in there and give it a more thorough cleaning. A clean and well-maintained car is much more comfortable to drive, and it can get a higher resale price than a vehicle that has not been taken care of. Here are some detailing tips to get your used vehicle looking like new. 1. Use the Right Cloth If you want the paint to stay looking like new, it's important to use the right type of cloth. Don't use an old rag you have around the house because it might have grit embedded in its fibers that can scratch or dull the paint. Always use a soft and nonabrasive material such as microfiber, sheepskin, or a natural sponge. You can also use a chamois or a microfiber towel to dry the exterior after washing it to get all the water drops off the paint. This will ensure there are no streaks or swirls left behind. more 2. Use a Clay Bar Clay bars are one of the best pro secrets. Clay bars will help you get all the stuck on grit and grime off the paint. You can find clay bars with different grades, ranging from very find to more aggressive grades. The finer the clay, the less chance you have a scratching the finish, and you always want to use a clay lubricant to keep the surface slippery. Always wash and dry the vehicle first, and then use the clay bar to remove any grit that's left behind. 3. Cleaning the Interior There are several techniques you can use to get in the hard to reach places if your vehicle. Once you get most of the grime out of the cup holders, put an old sock over the bottom of a travel cup. Spray it with cleaner, and then place it in the cup holder and twist. Use a wooden skewer to get rid of the paper and debris in the corners throughout the cabin, and then you can also use the skewer to pick debris out of the crevices in the door lips and carpeting. 4. Cleaning the Fabrics Vacuum the carpets and cloth seats, and then spray them with a foaming aerosol cleaner. Once it starts to dry, use the vacuum to remove it. Use a car upholstery cleaner and an upholstery cleaning brush to release the deep, ground-in dirt from the seats. Once you loosen the dirt with the brush, use a microfiber towel to wipe away the dirty suds. Remember to use a clean microfiber cloth so you don't put dirt back on the upholstery. 5. Cleaning the Wheels Don't forget the wheels and tires. Always use a product designed for the wheels that you have, and use two buckets. One for clean water and one for the soap and water mixture. Use a brush to agitate the dirt to remove it, and use the clean water to rinse it away. A clean car is much nicer to drive in, and better for your passengers. Follow these detailing tips to get your used car looking like new. Image via Pixabay.com

When you purchase a vehicle, you expect it to last a long time and Ford trucks are no different. With proper maintenance, Ford trucks can travel thousands of miles. According to a 2019 study conducted by iSeeCars, the Ford F-150 is one of the top five pickup trucks likely to hit 200,000 miles. To help your Ford truck achieve this milestone, here are five tips you should consider. 1. Check the Truck's Alignment If you notice that your truck is pulling to one side or the other, you should check the vehicle's alignment. You increase the chance of misalignment if you travel over rough roads at high speeds or if you drive aggressively. Driving with your wheels misaligned can cause you to get worse gas mileage and your tires to wear out quicker. more 2. Examine the Tire Pressure Tires that don't have enough air don't roll as easily. In return, the vehicles must use more engine power and fuel to make the tires rotate. Checking the tire pressure is one of the easiest tasks to perform. Make sure the tires are inflated to the vehicle's suggested pressure. You can locate this information inside the driver's door jam. 3. Get Your Truck Inspected Think of an inspection as taking your truck in for its checkup. Expert mechanics take a look at your truck and determine if it has any issues. They can also alert you if there are any recalls issued to your truck. Your owner's manual should state at what specific mileage you should bring in your vehicle. 4. Monitor Oil Consumption Within your vehicle, oil lubricates the metal parts and makes sure that they don't wear down and cause damage. Oil also helps to keep the vehicle's engine running smoothly by collecting dirt particles and preventing them from entering the engine. For 2008 model years or newer, Ford recommends you change the oil every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Check your owner's manual to determine the correct viscosity index for your truck. Older vehicles tend to consume more oil, and if your vehicle begins to consume more oil than typical, it might leak. If you encounter a leak, you should have it fixed immediately. Even if your vehicle isn't leaking oil, check the oil level routinely, especially if you're traveling long distances. Make sure the oil is cool first to get an accurate reading. 5. Top Off Fluid Levels Although the most important fluid to check is the oil, there are others that you should monitor. The engine coolant keeps the engine from overheating, and you can check the level by opening the cap. Refill as needed with the type of coolant specified in your owner's manual. Don't forget about your windshield wiper fluid, especially when driving during the winter since salt can accumulate on the windshield. If you have any additional questions about how to keep your Ford truck running well, reach out to the experts at Rath Auto Resources. They can help answer any questions you might have so you can make your truck last a long time. Image via Ford.com

Making the choice to buy a used car instead of a new one can be a sound financial decision. There are several benefits to purchasing a used vehicle such as lower insurance and registration costs, and a lower overall cost to purchase. If you think you're going to purchase a used car as your next vehicle, take a look at our guide below on how to get your best deal. Research the Market and the Cars You're Interested In In order to ensure you're getting a great deal for a used car, you'll have a bit of homework to do. Make sure you research the market value for cars you're considering in your area. This will give you a good insight into what a fair deal would be when you get to the dealership. Another thing to research is the models you're specifically interested in. Some models are known for having issues or component failure around certain high mileage benchmarks. This is to be expected since cars are machines and they will wear down over time. more Remember to research the trim levels available as well to have a firm understanding of which features are available. When shopping for used cars, you don't typically have the freedom of choice when it comes to available trims. The highest trim levels will likely cost more but they're also more likely to have more technology included. If you can find a higher trim level at a rate that's closer to the lower trims, it can be a huge win if the price is right. Understand Depreciation Cars will always lose value with time. There are a few periods of time when a car will depreciate quickly over time. For example, cars lose 10% of their value right after they leave the lot, another 20% after a year, and a total of 40% of their value after three years. As a buyer, look to take advantage of these depreciation averages to get the best deal. Buy cars shortly after the first or third year mark for the largest discount. At that time, the vehicle is also likely still under the manufacturer's warranty, which is a nice bonus. Pay Attention During Your Test Drive It goes without saying that you should test drive any vehicle you plan to purchase. When test-driving a used vehicle, try to be more aware of different sounds in the vehicle. This can be your first alert to any maintenance needs that might be coming down the road if you choose that vehicle. Many guides will advise you to leave the radio off during your test to listen for these potential issues, however, the radio is something which is used every day by drivers, so be sure to test the speakers out as well. Purchasing a used car has several benefits which make it an appealing option. Understanding the market and how cars depreciate over time can give you an edge when shopping for a new car. If you're interested in purchasing a new-to-you car this year, stop by the dealership or check out our online inventory. Image via Flickr by SoulRider.222

If you just bought a new car, then you probably want to maintain its quality for as long as possible. Here are three ways to maintain the value of your car with ease: 1. Get Your Maintenance Done It can be tempting to take it easy and simply enjoy the smooth, problem-free ride of a new car without worry over maintenance. However, it's ideal not to take this blessing for granted. Schedule your car for regular tune-ups in order to keep it in shape. Just like a healthy person needs an annual check-up, healthy eating, and exercise, your car also needs its TLC! more Also, a minor or undetected problem can become more significant if you don't rush to look into it. Generally speaking, getting maintenance done in its proper time can make your car more efficient and can even keep your engine running more smoothly. 2. Clean-Up Messes Quickly Often when we're thinking about car maintenance, we consider the mechanical aspects: all the invisible aspects that could possibly go wrong on the inside. However, there is one aspect that you have almost complete control over and can fix yourself: stains! Aesthetics -- the general look of your car -- does impact the price tag. You could have a car with low mileage, but if the fabric looks horrid, you won't be able to sell it at the same value. The trick? Keep some anti-stain remover in the glove compartment, along with some towels for large spills. For coffee and kids' drinks, find cups with secure lids, or encourage your kids to drink water. Also, consider stopping off at a park to eat your meals rather than chewing in the car. 3. Don't Smoke In It It is best not to smoke at all, due to the effect on our health. But if you are a smoker, do not smoke in your car at all. Cigarette smoke worms its way into the fabric. Even if you leave the windows open as you smoke, the smell does its harm almost immediately. Cigarette smoke can also tarnish the sharp, sleek colors of your car's interior. What was once a unique, fresh look can become yellowed and hazy. Statistics suggest that about 78% of people do not smoke. For non-smokers, this kind of deterioration will be more noticeable simply because they are not used to it themselves. If they can choose between buying a smoke-affected car or a clean one, they'll often opt for the cleaner one. Don't lose out. Preserve your health and your car, too. Stop at a restaurant for a smoke break, or cut the habit altogether. If you just invested in a brand-new car, or if you just love yours so much that you want to hang onto it, try to care for it as best as you can by following these tips. Even if you never sell your car, you will benefit from its value by enjoying the ride so much more! Image via Flickr by Rich Nacmias