It’s no secret that gas prices are on the rise. With the price of fuel approaching $5.00/gal and over in some states, driving a car is becoming more and more expensive. There are multiple things you can do to improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. Here are six simple tips we compiled to help you save money on this month’s gas budget:

1. Keep your tires properly inflated

You’ve probably heard it before, but it’s true. Keeping your tires properly inflated helps use less fuel. When your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, it decreases rolling resistance, which means your car doesn’t have to work as hard to move. This saves you gas and money at the pump.

If you’re not sure how to check your tire pressure, most gas stations have air pumps that you can use. Just be sure to check your owner’s manual first to find out what the recommended tire pressure is for your car.

Click here to schedule service in Charlotte, NC.

2. Avoid excessive idling

If you’re sitting in your car with the engine running, you’re wasting gas. Idling uses more fuel than starting and stopping your car, so it’s best to avoid it whenever possible. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off your engine.

Click here to learn more about the impact of idling.

3. Get a tune-up

One way to improve your gas mileage is to get a tune-up. A tune-up helps your car run more efficiently, which means you’ll use less fuel. When your car is running properly, it doesn’t have to work as hard to move and you’ll save at the pump.

If you’re not sure if your car needs a tune-up, consult your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic.

Click here to speak with one of our Ford Service Specialists.

4. Drive smoothly

If you’re the type of driver who likes to speed up and brake frequently, you’re using more gas than you need to. Driving smoothly – accelerating gradually and braking gently – can help improve your gas mileage.

When driving on the highway, cruise control can also help smooth out your driving. Cruise control helps you maintain a consistent speed, which means your car doesn’t have to work as hard to accelerate. This will help improve your fuel economy as well.

5. Combine errands

Whenever possible, try to combine errands into one trip and plan a route that requires little to no backtracking. This way, you won’t have to waste gas by driving back and forth multiple times. If you can, plan your errands so that you can do them all in one go.

Click here to see a guide for errand route planning.

6. Use the right octane level gasoline

If your car requires premium gas, using a lower octane level can actually decrease your fuel economy because your car’s engine won’t be running as efficiently. Be sure to use the recommended octane level for your car to get the best gas mileage possible.

Click here to learn more about octane levels.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump. These days, every little bit of money saved helps. Try out these tips on your next road trip or errand run and see how much you can save.

Click here to shop for new hybrid Ford models in Charlotte, NC.

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The car-buying process can be daunting and scary, especially if you haven’t done much car shopping before. You may be unsure of what you should bargain for, or worry about being pressured to make a choice when you aren’t ready. We understand! We want to help make the process as stress-free as possible for you. In this article, we give you tips to help you feel more confident next time you go shopping for your next vehicle.

Click here to custom order a new Ford in Charlotte, NC.

Do your research

By knowing what type of car you want, what features you want, what you’re willing to pay for, and comparing some prices you’ll be able to narrow down your options and focus on the cars that are best for you. This will help make the process less overwhelming.

Click here to compare different car models.

Get pre-approved for financing

When you’ve already been approved for a loan from a lender, you don’t have to worry about being turned down or being haggled over interest rates. This will make the car-buying process go faster and smoother.

Click here to get pre-approved for an auto loan.

Have realistic expectations

This means being prepared for the possibility that you may not find the perfect car, and being okay with that.

Take your time

There’s no need to rush into a decision, so take your time and make sure you’re getting the car that’s right for you. This will help you feel more confident and avoid any regret later on.

Be aware of your credit score and what that means for you

A high credit score will help you get a lower interest rate on your loan, while a low credit score could mean you likely won’t be approved for a loan at all. Also, don’t let the dealer run your credit until you are ready to buy a car. Otherwise, it adds unnecessary inquiries to your credit report and could lower your score.

Click here to learn how your credit score impacts your car loan or lease price.

Don’t be afraid to walk away

If you’re feeling pressure to buy a car or you’re not sure if you’re getting a good deal, don’t be afraid to walk away. This will show the salesman that you’re not desperate and that you’re willing to walk away from a bad deal. This will also help give you more bargaining power.

Ask questions

If you’re unsure about something or want to know more about a car before making a decision, ask the salesman. They should be able to answer any of your questions. And when it comes time to negotiate, don’t be afraid to do so. This is how you get the best price for the car.

Click here to contact a Mark Ficken Ford team member with your questions.

Bring someone with you

If you’re feeling nervous or unsure, bring along a friend or family member who can give you advice and support. They can also help you remember important details that you may forget while you’re at the dealership.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a car, the process can be stressful. But by following these tips, you can make the experience less overwhelming and more manageable. After all, this is a big decision, and you want to be sure you’re getting the right car for you.

 

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Having a car regularly costs you money and sometimes a lot of money. Between the cost of the car, insurance, gas, and routine maintenance, it’s easy to spend a small fortune keeping a car on the road. However, there are ways to save money on all of these expenses. Here are ten easy tips for reducing your car costs.

1. Choose a car that’s affordable to insure

When it comes to car insurance, cheaper is always better. So choosing a car that’s affordable to insure will help you keep your premiums down, which will save you money in the long run.

Click here for a list of the cheapest cars to insure.

2. Compare insurance rates

You can quickly identify the best deal for your needs by comparing rates from multiple providers. This can save you a significant amount of money throughout the year.

Click here to compare automotive insurance company rates.

3. Find a gas station with the best prices

The gas station with the lowest prices in town can easily save you five to ten dollars every time you fill your tank.

Click here for a list of the top 10 gas stations in Charlotte, NC.

4. Drive efficiently to save on gas expenses

Driving efficiently is a great way to save money on gas expenses, from combining trips to driving smoothly on the road. When you drive efficiently, you use less gas and save money.

5. Carpool with friends or family members

Carpooling helps you share the costs of gas and insurance. You can save a significant amount of money by splitting the costs between several people.

6. Refinance your car loan

By refinancing your loan, you can get a lower interest rate, saving you money over the life of the loan. Additionally, you may be able to get a longer loan term, which will also lower your monthly payments.

Click here to contact us about refinancing your current vehicle.

7. Pay off your car loan quickly

When you have a car loan, you are typically charged interest on the money you borrow. The longer you take to pay off the loan, the more interest you will pay. By paying off the loan quickly, you can reduce the interest you pay and save money long-term.

8. Keep your car in good condition

By keeping up with routine maintenance, such as changing the oil and checking the tires, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run. Additionally, fixing minor problems as they arise can help prevent them from becoming more significant, more expensive problems later on.

Click here to schedule service for your vehicle today!

9. Trade in your car for a more fuel-efficient model

If you’re due for a new car, trading in your current model for a more fuel-efficient one can save you money on gas expenses. With gas prices constantly fluctuating, this is a great way to save some money in the long run.

Click here to get an instant cash offer on your vehicle today!

10. Consider public transportation

Depending on where you live, public transportation may be a cheaper and more convenient option than driving. If you have the opportunity to take advantage of public transportation, it can save you a lot of money on car-related expenses.

We hope you found these tips helpful in saving you some money on your car expenses!

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Car accessories. Are they worth the investment? Contrary to what you might hear from some people, car accessories aren’t just unnecessary add-ons just to make your car more stylish or fancy. Many accessories are extremely beneficial, providing functionality that improves your safety, security, and protection of parts of your vehicle, saving you money in the long run. We generated a list of 10 car accessories that you’ll want to check out for your vehicle:

Click here for a list of accessories available for your car.

1.  Dashboard Camera

Also called dash cams, they provide an unbroken video record of everything that happens on the road in front of your car, which can be extremely helpful in proving your innocence in the event of a traffic accident or road rage incident.

2.  Backup Camera

A backup camera can help you avoid accidents by giving you a clear view of what’s behind your car while you’re in reverse. Many new cars come with backup cameras standard, but if yours doesn’t, it’s definitely worth the investment.

3. GPS tracker

GPS trackers can help you recover your vehicle if it’s stolen. They provide real-time location tracking, so you always know where your car is.

4.  Tire Pressure Monitor

A tire pressure monitor (TPMS) is a sensor system that monitors the air pressure in your tires and alerts you when it gets too low. Driving on under-inflated tires can be dangerous and cause premature tire wear, so having a TPMS can keep you safe and save you money in the long run.

5. Parking Sensors

Parking sensors are another helpful safety feature that can prevent accidents. They use sensors to detect obstacles and notify you when you’re getting too close, so you can avoid bumping into things.

Click here to shop new Ford SUV models in Charlotte, NC.

6.  Car Alarm

A car alarm is a great way to deter thieves and protect your vehicle. Car alarms make a loud noise when someone tries to break into your car, which will hopefully deter the thief and attract attention.

7.  Immobilizer

An immobilizer is a device that prevents your car from being started without the proper key. This is a great theft deterrent, as it makes it much harder for thieves to steal your car.

8.  Car Cover

A car cover is a great way to protect your car from the elements if you don’t have a garage to park in. Car covers keep your car clean and dry, and can also help prevent theft.

9.  Windshield Sunshade

A windshield sunshade helps keep your car cool in the summer by blocking out the sun’s rays. This can help prevent heat damage to your car and make it more comfortable to get in after it’s been sitting in the sun.

10.  Headlight Covers

Headlight covers help protect your headlights from being damaged by rocks or other debris. This can save you money in the long run, as replacing headlights is not cheap.

Keep in mind…

These are just a few of the many types of car accessories that are available on the market today. Many accessories are built to fit specific makes and models of vehicles, so be sure any accessories you purchase are made specifically for your car.

Click here to shop new Ford accessories in Charlotte, NC.

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When test driving a car, it’s important to get the most out of the experience. You want to make a confident, well-informed decision about the vehicle and if it is right for you, but in the moment, it can be tough to remember all the things to pay attention to during a test drive. Here are some tips for making the most of your test drive:

Click here to browse new cars for sale in Charlotte and schedule a test drive.

Is it comfortable?

Do you have comfortable space for your legs? Are you able to relax in the driver’s seat and still see clearly? Does the steering wheel adjust easily, so you can position it well for you? You’ll also want to be able to get in and out of the car easily and be able to see and reach all the controls comfortably.

Take some time to get to know the car before you start the drive

Before you take off, take some time to get to know all of the vehicle’s features to see how everything works and if you’re comfortable using all the features. Test out the stereo, the A/C, and heater, and play with all the features to see if they work properly, are simple to navigate, and that they fit your needs and wants.

Click here to browse new Ford SUV and sedan specials.

Drive in different conditions and on different types of roads

When you get out on the road for your test drive, take the car through different road and traffic conditions. Test how it drives over potholes, bumps, or speed bumps to see how well it handles rough road conditions. Check the responsiveness of the steering wheel as you make your turns. Be sure to get it up to passing speed too, as on a highway to make sure the vehicle won’t overheat, which would show some issues with the car that would need to be addressed. Also check the blind spots, especially in heavier traffic. Some vehicles have massive blindspots and that could kill the deal for you.

Lastly, test the horn! The horn is often overlooked during a test drive and it is important to make sure the car has a working horn.

Click here to shop new Ford Trucks in Charlotte, NC.

Listen to the car while you drive

You can get a lot of information about the condition of the car by listening to it during your test drive. Be sure to have the radio turned off so you can listen closely.

The engine should sound smooth as you start the car and accelerate or coast on the road. You don’t want to hear any high-pitch sounds, wheezing, or clicks. Also, listen for any sounds that may happen when you hit the brakes. It should be quiet. If you hear any grinding or screeching then the brakes may need servicing. All in all, your test drive should be relatively quiet apart from normal road noise.

Conclusion

Using these tips, you can be sure that you will come away from your next test drive with a lot more information about the vehicle that will help you make a more confident decision on if it’s right for you.

Looking for more test drive tips, click here to learn more.

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An emergency kit is a must-have for any vehicle. When you’re on the road, you never know what could happen, especially if you are taking a long road trip. A car accident, a blown tire, or even a simple mechanical problem can leave you stranded and in need of help. Having an emergency kit can be a lifesaver, and by being prepared, you can help yourself and your passengers in a time of need.

In this article, we are going to give you a list of the absolute essentials for your car emergency kit.

Click here to see what the NCS has to say about your safety kit.

The must-have essentials for your car emergency kit

• Flares. Provide high visibility, especially at night or in poor weather conditions, to help drivers be aware of you and help emergency responders easily find you.
• Emergency triangles. To alert drivers of where you are so, they can drive cautiously by you, helping keep you and them safe.
• Bottled water. You don’t want to get dehydrated. You want enough water to last you 2-3 days in case you get stranded for a long time, and have extra for any passengers you regularly have with you.
• Emergency food kits. Non-perishable food items or emergency food kits that can last 2-3 days for you and additional passengers. Foods that keep up your energy and are easy to consume without needing to be cooked. If you pack canned foods, be sure to include a can opener in your emergency kit.
• Compressible blanket. These take up very little space and are very helpful for keeping you very warm. It’s a good idea to have a few on hand, especially in frigid temperatures.
• First aid kit. Injuries can happen anytime. There’s nothing worse than getting injured while traveling and not having anything on hand to tend to it.
• Disposable rain poncho. If you need to get outside your vehicle in the cold and rain to put out flares or triangles or to put on a spare tire, a rain poncho is great to keep you dry, which will also help you maintain body heat.
• Gloves. These are a must during the winter season if you need to get out of the vehicle and tend to your car or set up emergency visuals.
• Flashlight. Conserve your phone power and pack a bright flashlight you can use in an emergency.
• Whistle. If you’re stranded on a back road in dense forest, a whistle may help others hear you and find you. It also helps scare off some curious animals.

Preparedness is key

No matter what the season, it’s important to have an emergency kit in your car. The essentials we listed are a must for any type of roadside emergency. However, you may want to pack other items specific to your needs, climate, or depending on where you live and the types of emergencies that are most common in your area. Make sure you take into account the seasons when packing your kit and always be prepared for the unexpected. Your life may depend on it.

Click here to shop for additional accessories for your vehicle.

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How do you know when it’s time to get rid of your old car and buy a new one? If you landed on this page, you’re probably wondering how to determine that it’s time to retire the old car and bring in a new one. On the other hand, maybe you are holding on to your car for sentimental reasons and may not be sure it’s time to retire it. In this article, we’ll talk about some things to look for that are a good indication it’s time to say goodbye to the old car.

Click here to shop for new cars in Charlotte, NC.

Signs that it might be time for a new car

1. Getting more expensive to keep it running

One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to retire your old car is when it starts to give you trouble and needs expensive repairs. If you constantly have to spend money on fixing your vehicle, then it’s probably not worth it to keep driving it. On the other hand, if you break down the expenses and see that the monthly cost is more than what a new car payment would be, then it’s time to consider getting a new car.

2. Comfort and safety are compromised

Another sign that it might be time for a new car is if your vehicle is no longer comfortable or safe to drive. This could be because it doesn’t have working features that fit your wants or needs anymore or because it’s not as reliable as it used to be. If you’re unhappy with your car and don’t feel safe driving it, it might be time to start car shopping.

Click here for eight signs your car is on its way out.

3. You’re ready for an upgrade

People’s needs change over time, and sometimes that means needing a different type of car. For example, if you initially got a small car because you didn’t have kids and now have a family, you might need to upgrade to a bigger car that can accommodate everyone. Or maybe you got a sports car when you were younger, and now you’re looking for something more practical. If you’re ready for a change, it might be time to get a new car.

Click here to custom order your next car!

4. Get a professional opinion

One of the best things you can do if you’re not sure about the state of your car is to take it to a professional and get their opinion. They will be able to tell you if it’s in good driving condition, if it needs and is worth fixing, or if it would be better to get a new car.

Click here to schedule service in Charlotte, NC.

The bottom line

These are just a few signs that it might be time to get rid of your old car and buy a new one. It’s not always an easy decision to make, but if you’re having regular doubts about your vehicle, or you feel unsafe and it’s not comfortable to drive anymore, it might be time to start looking for something new. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll be sure to make the right decision.

Click here to browse new Ford specials in Charlotte, NC.

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Some people might try to convince you that it’s cheaper to go to a third-party mechanic, but there are many benefits to having your car serviced at a dealership. Here are five reasons why you should take your car there instead of to a third-party mechanic.

1. Dealerships have certified mechanics who specifically know your car well

Certified mechanics at dealerships have extensive knowledge about the specific make and model of vehicles sold at that dealership so you can rest assured your car is in great hands for being serviced. In addition to providing regular maintenance for your car, these certified mechanics are trained to easily identify and fix any issues with your car that may be noticed during complimentary inspections and general maintenance. This ensures that your car stays in good condition and that any potential problems are found and fixed before they become bigger and more expensive to repair. You won’t get that kind of service at a quick oil-change shop.

What is the difference between regular mechanics and certified mechanics?

2. Dealerships use manufacturer parts and accessories

When you take your car to a dealership for service, you can be sure that they will use manufacturer parts and accessories that are specifically made for your car. This helps to extend the lifespan of your car because manufacturer parts are designed to work well with your vehicle’s make and model.

Why are OEM parts important for your car?

3. Service records are well kept

If you take your car to a dealership for service, the service records will be well kept and filed. These service records are often included in Carfax reports. This is important if you plan to sell your car in the future. Potential buyers will see that the car has been regularly serviced which can help increase the resale value of your car.

Why is keeping accurate service records important?

4. Get a complimentary car wash with any services done

Finally, getting a free car wash from the dealership when you have your car serviced is a great perk. It helps keep your car clean and looking good, and also saves you time and money. Not every dealership offers a free car wash so be sure to check with your local dealership next time you’re in for a service.

Where can I schedule service in Charlotte, NC?

Conclusion

When it comes to servicing your car, it’s important to take it to a reputable source with certified mechanics, who use the right parts for your car, and who will handle your vehicle with professional quality service. Dealerships provide this kind of service so you can rest assured that your vehicle is getting the proper care it deserves. So next time your car is due for a check-up, be sure to take it to the dealership for the best service possible.

Where can I find service specials in Charlotte, NC?

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A rock gets kicked up and smacks your windshield as you are driving down the freeway. Thankfully, it’s small and down out of your line of view. No big deal, right? Actually, something this small can turn out to be quite dangerous. That little chip in your windshield may grow into a large fracture and spread rapidly, putting your windshield’s integrity at risk as well as endangering the safety of you and your passengers. Let’s take a look at why.

Auto Glass Repair in Charlotte, NC.

Windshields are designed with stress in mind

Windshields are typically made of two layers of glass with a plastic layer in between.    They are designed to handle the constant stress of wind pressure and the weight of your car as you drive. Windshields are also designed to handle the expansion and contraction that naturally occur with extreme temperature fluctuations, like when you turn on your A/C on a hot day or blast the heat in freezing temperatures. Finally, your windshield not only contributes to the structural integrity of your car but also aids in the proper deployment of airbags in the event of an accident.

How strong is a windshield?

How chips and cracks severely damage the integrity of your windshield

When a chip occurs, the impact breaks the top layer of glass. This creates a small opening between that top layer of glass and the plastic layer. Not only does this opening allow moisture and small debris to get under that top layer of glass, causing further damage, but the small opening creates a weak spot in the windshield. Over time, the stressors and pressure that the windshield is made to withstand will actually cause more damage, making that weak spot more susceptible to spreading and becoming a large fracture.

As the windshield naturally contracts and expands to wind pressure and temperature changes, any moisture or debris underneath that top glass layer causes more focused pressure on the windshield, making it even weaker.

If your windshield is cracked, it can no longer properly protect you in the event of a collision. A damaged windshield is more likely to break completely if you get into an accident or if something hits it again, especially If the chip in your windshield has developed further into a larger fracture. This puts you and your passengers at risk for serious injury.

What are the different types of windshield cracks?

When to fix your chipped windshield

Repairing a chipped windshield is usually pretty inexpensive and only takes a short amount of time. However, if you wait too long and the chip turns into a crack, repairing your windshield will be much more expensive and time-consuming as the damage will be much harder to fix.

Ideally, you should get your windshield repaired as soon as possible after the chip occurs. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the chip will develop into a larger crack.  If you take care of it early on, most repair shops can quickly and easily fix the chip without having to replace your entire windshield.

Looking to repair damage to your vehicle? Click here to schedule your estimate today!

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It’s no secret that a well-maintained car can fetch a higher price when it comes time to sell. But what many people don’t realize is that there are several things they can do, or don’t do, to their car that will actually decrease its resale value. We are going to touch on 4 of the biggest things that can damage your car’s worth when it comes time to sell.

1. Not keeping up on routine maintenance

If you don’t keep up on your vehicle’s routine maintenance, parts in your car will wear or break down sooner than they should. This will cause your car to have more serious and expensive problems down the road, which potential buyers will be wary of. Make sure you keep records of all regularly scheduled maintenance so you can show potential buyers that you’ve taken good care of your car and they can trust it is in great condition.

Click here to schedule maintenance for your current vehicle.

2. Accidents, dents, and scratches

One of the biggest things that can damage your car’s resale value is accidents, dents, and scratches. Even if the damage is minor, it can still turn potential buyers away. If you have been in an accident and had necessary repairs done, be sure to keep records of them. Dents and scratches can also be a big turn-off for potential buyers, so make sure to fix those up as well.

For more details on what accidents, dents, and scratches can do to your car click here.

3. Modifications

While you may love all the modifications you’ve made to your car, they might not be so popular with potential buyers. Many people view modifications as something that has been done to the car that could potentially decrease its value or make it less reliable. If you are planning on selling your car, it’s best to remove any modifications and return the car to its original state.

Click here for a breakdown of which modifications can impact value.

4. Excessive mileage

The higher the mileage on your car, the lower its resale value will be. This is because potential buyers will view a car with a lot of miles as being less reliable and more likely to have problems. If you are trying to sell your car, it’s best to do so before it hits a high mileage threshold.

Use our KBB Instant Cash Offer tool to see what your car is worth.

5. Smoking odor

One final thing that can bring down the resale value is the smell of smoke. Whether it’s from cigarettes, cigars, or other smoking items, the smell of smoke is a major turn-off for many potential buyers. If you are a smoker, it’s best to avoid smoking in your vehicle as much as possible if you want to maintain good resale value. The smell is very difficult to get rid of even if the car is very thoroughly cleaned.

Click here to see local service specials near you!

Conclusion

It’s important to be mindful of these things if you want to get the most money for your car when you eventually sell it, as all of the things mentioned here can substantially hurt your resale value.

If you want to find out your vehicle’s current resale value and get advice on things you can do to bring up the resale value, contact us today. We would be happy to help you out.

Looking for a new Ford in Charlotte, NC? Click here to browse local Ford Truck inventory.

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