Get Your Jeep Summer Ready

As a Jeep owner it’s always a thrill to throw of the car top and enjoy the summer breeze, but is your Jeep ready for the season ahead? Before the dog days are here, prepare your Jeep for the summer.

1. Replace soft top. If you’re a Jeep owner in the Columbia, SC area, chances are you sport a soft top to enjoy the year-around subtropical climate. However, it’s important to periodically inspect your Jeep’s top to ensure there are no leaks, which could ruin the interior. Soft tops can last several years before they need to be replaced, if properly taken care of.   

2. Inspect your tires. During South Carolina summers, extreme heat is not uncommon. Be sure to inspect your tires and check your tire pressure. It’s important to keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure, not the maximum pressure. In the summer, heat can cause air pressure in tires to rise; therefore over-inflating your tires could potentially cause a blow-out while on the road. 

3. Check your battery. Can you remember the last time you checked your Jeep’s battery? If your answer is no, then now is a good time to have your battery inspected to ensure it carries a full charge. Similar to cold temperatures, hot temperatures can affect a car’s battery. If your Jeep’s battery is more than three years old, stop by your local Jeep dealership for a battery test. Be sure to carry jumper cables in case of any battery issues. 

4. Check your air conditioning system. When the weather is not ideal to leave your Jeep’s top down, you will want to make sure that the air conditioning is functioning properly. Have your air filters inspected, and check for any worn or damaged belts. For a full inspection, visit your local Columbia Jeep dealer as they can help you and your Jeep beat the heat this summer.   

5. Change your oil. If you haven’t had your new Jeep or used car’s oil changed in a while be sure to do so sooner than later. Check your engine oil level periodically and reference your car manual for the best maintenance care intervals. For those planning on taking a road trip or two this summer, make sure your oil levels are ideal for optimum performance.

Remember, before you hit the road, prepare your Jeep for the season. Wherever your Jeep takes you this summer, enjoy! For your next service appointment, visit JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Columbia, SC. Schedule your appointment online or call (888) 255-4016 Source: http://www.edmunds.com/how-to/how-to-get-your-car-ready-for-summer.html

The 4 Best Road Trip Drives

Summer is quickly approaching, which means vacation season is right around the corner. Are you ready? Instead of taking the time to plan an extravagant vacation and spending all your hard-earned money on airfare, why not discover something new while taking a road trip in your new Dodge? Planning your next road trip couldn’t be easier with this list of the top four road trip destinations and drives.

Visit Historic Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania

Begin your road trip with a The Journey Through Hallowed Ground, which extends from Gettyburg, Pennsylvania to Monticello, Virginia. Travel the 175 mile long route through historic towns from the American Revolution and Civil War, along with home and birthplaces of nine United States Presidents.

Next, drive your Jeep across the Potomac River into Frederick, Maryland. The Potomac River is the fourth largest river along the coast of the Atlantic and is the 21^st largest river in the U.S. While in Frederick, visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, as well as the Monocracy National Battlefield.

Lastly, cross the Mason-Dixon Line and stop in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Tour various monuments and battlefield made famous by Abraham Lincoln’s well-known speech, the Gettysburg Address. Home of the  infamous Battle of Gettysburg, Gettysburg, Pennslyvania is full or rich history that forever changed our country.

Explore Louisiana’s Creole Country

Did you know? Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Drive through the Historic District and see over 100 historical buildings ranging from forts to house museums.

Take your new Dodge on a scenic plantation drive. Stop by the privately-owned Oaklawn, Cherokee and Beaufort Plantations. You’ll see breath-taking views of the grandeur structures and meticulously planted landscapes.

Next, take a tour of the unique Melrose Plantation. It was built by the freed slave, Marie Therese Coincoin. A National Historic Landmark, the platnation contains nine historic buildings. Discover the rich history inside the walls of the Melrose Plantation.

Journey to Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Start your Cape Cod journey in Sagamore and witness artisans honing their craft as they hand blow lead crystal into glassware. View their process of blowing, shaping and finishing these decorative items. Maybe even take some home as a souvenir.

Next, explore Cape Cod’s most expansive inland preserve, Nickerson State Park. Hike, swim, fish or bike while taking in the 2,000-acre park full of pine forests and freshwater ponds. If you’re up for a long trek, the trail connects to the 22 mile long Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Drive your Jeep on through Orleans to the 44,600-acre Cape Cod National Seashore. At the Massachusetts Audubon Society’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, you’ll see 1,100 acres packed with woods, marshes, tidal creeks and variety of bird species. You can even sit atop the cliff where distress calls from the Titanic were received in 1912.

See the Beauty of North Carolina’s Outer Banks

If the thought of putting a lot of miles on your new Chrysler makes you cringe, then travel close to home where the pavement meets sand at Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla, North Carolina. At the Currituck Beach Lighthouse you can climb all 214 stairs to view the wild horses roaming the Currituck Banks estuarine reserve. Don’t forget your binoculars.

Visit some internationally acclaimed beaches in Cape Cod, along the Cape Cod National Seashore. From dolphin and whale watching to fishing tours, bike trails, and more, there’s something for everyone in Cape Cod.

Wherever you choose to travel this summer in your Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge, remember it’s all about the drive!

Wherever you choose to travel this summer in your Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge, remember it’s all about the drive!

Stop on by JTs Chrysler Jeep and Dodge to take a look at our full line of new and used cars and trucks. Schedule a test Drive today! We’re located at 5215 Sunset Boulevard, Lexington, SC 29072. For more information, give us a call at (888) 255-4016.

Source: http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/road-trips/

Image Credit: http://travel.nationalgeographic.com

How To Buy Your First Car As A College Grad

“The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are.”
— John Pierpont Morgan

The time to put on your graduation cap is fast approaching and with it comes a new chapter of life. Change is a great thing; with each chapter you get to start over and improve yourself. So why not get rid of your old hand-me-down car and start fresh with a new ride. As you kick-start your career, having an efficient and reliable car will come in handy. Before you jump on the band wagon of purchasing a new car, here’s a checklist to help you purchase the right car:

Come up With a Budget
The college debt crisis is on the rise with the average student loan debt at $29,400. The last thing you need is digging deeper into debt by making a car purchase you can’t afford. Coming up with a budget will help you get a hold on your finances. When coming up with a budget consider all your financial responsibilities including:

• Mortgage/Rent
• Bills (Phone bill, utilities, insurance)

As a rule of thumb, avoid spending more than 20% of your monthly household income on a car.

Do your Research
Doing research will help you figure out if the car you’re eyeing has the qualities and features you’re looking for. Researching a car before buying is also a great way to save time by weighing your options and eliminating no-go’s. Here are a few features to focus on when researching to help narrow your search:

• Fuel Efficiency
• Resale Value
• Safety & size
• Price

Considering these features will help you figure out what makes a new car the best new car for you.

Buy Used
Buying used cars is becoming more popular especially among young adults. Times have changed and because of advancements in technology cars depreciate at a slower rate. You might not be able to buy a new sports car but you can still get a fun-to-drive car with low mileage and great fuel efficiency. Purchasing a used car will not only save you money but give you a chance to save for your dream sports car. Avoid buying cars that are more than three years old.

Schedule a Test Drive
Test driving a car is the most fun part of the car buying process. You will spend most of your time in the car so be sure to get really acquainted with the interior. Schedule several test-drives and give yourself time to get a sense of the car’s ride quality. Pay attention to the primary controls and the functionality of the interior features. Be sure to test-drive on different surfaces and at different speeds. This will help you determine if the car is the right fit for your lifestyle.

Take your time, ask a lot of questions and enjoy the buying process. Explore JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge vast inventory of new and used vehicles. Our team of experts will provide you with the guidance you need. You can find us at 5215 Sunset Boulevard, Lexington, SC 29072.

 

The New Year Means New Resolutions for Car Owners

“To improve is to change; To be perfect is to change often.” – Winston Churchill

As we ring in the New Year, many individuals make personal resolutions for themselves – to exercise, to eat healthier – however, have you considered resolutions when it comes to caring for your car?

Winston Churchill’s quote is fitting for any scenario and individual, even when it comes to the importance of your automobile.

“To improve is to change,” can relate to the importance of taking steps toward improving the functionality of your vehicle or perhaps to upgrade to a new car or truck. “To be perfect is to change often,” which in car terms can mean in order to keep your car running smoothly, you must take care of regularly, not when issues arise.

In order to keep your car on the road this year, JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge has put together a few New Year’s resolutions just for car owners!

• Schedule routine car check-ups. It’s important to schedule routine maintenance on your car, truck or SUV at least a couple of times a year. Routine maintenance can help prevent any major issues when it comes to your vehicle. Schedule your next car check-up at JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge or your local dealership.

• Resolve to maintain a clean vehicle. This year, put forth extra effort to maintaining a clean car, both the interior and exterior. Be sure to occasionally wash the outside of your car at a local car wash or at home if you prefer DIY. When it comes to the interior of your car, truck or SUV, regularly vacuum your floor mats and discard any trash to help keep maintain the look of your vehicle.

• Accessorize. If you have always wanted to accessorize your vehicle, set a goal to do it this year! From new floor mats, to spare tire covers, accessories and more, customizing your car, truck or SUV can be a great way to add personality to your vehicle. For ideas on how to customize your Jeep, reference our previous post, “Inexpensive Ways to Customize Your Jeep.”

• Enjoy the occasional leisure ride. One simple, yet often overlooked, idea is to take time out of your busy schedule and enjoy the ride. In the Lexington and Columbia, SC warmer climate allows these experiences to take place throughout the year. Make time for you and your car, truck or SUV and enjoy an occasional leisure ride.

From check-ups, to accessories and more, there are many ways you can help enhance the life of your new or used car this year.

If you’re looking for a new or used Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge, visit JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge for new and used cars in Lexington, near Columbia, SC. When you think of car dealerships in Columbia, SC, think JT’s Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge!

Winter Driving Tips and Preparation

The seasons are changing, which means it’s time to prepare your automobile for winter and make sure you’re ready for the new season!

While around Lexington and Columbia, South Carolina, typical winter weather, including snow and ice is not-so-typical, practicing safe driving tips and preparing your car for winter season is a must!

When it comes to driving, whether through rain or snow, keep the following tips in mind to help keep you safe on the road this winter:

• Make sure your tire pressure is ideal. When it’s cooler outside, tires tend to lose air pressure. To help avoid any blowouts, be sure your tire pressure is correct and double check that your tires are properly inflated.
• Buckle up. One of the top safety features in your Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge is your seatbelt. Always use your seatbelt whether you’re driving or just along for the ride. Remember, safety first!
• Do not use cruise control when driving on any wet surface. Cruise control use in rain or snow may increase the chance of hydroplaning, thus your chances of losing control while behind the wheel. It’s best to avoid cruise control while driving on any wet or icy pavement.
• Keep your gas tank at least half-full. When temperatures dip toward freezing, it’s best to have at least a half-tank full of gas to avoid gas line freeze-up. In general, keeping your tank full will help increase your overall gas mileage.
• Avoid driving while fatigued. Driving when you’re tired is never ideal and increases your risk for an accident. Try to get a full night’s sleep before any road trips this winter season and stay alert!

Now that you’re aware of some of the top driving tips, it’s time to check off seasonal maintenance items to keep your car in tip-top shape. The top four items to check off your seasonal maintenance preparation list are as follows:

• Replace your wipers. As a rule of thumb, every auto owner should replace their wipers twice during the year – once in the spring and once in the winter. Occasionally check your wipers and replace right away if you notice any cracks or splits.
• Check engine oil. Always make sure you schedule routine oil changes to help keep your car running smoothly. Your car’s oil level is one of the most important things you can do to extend the life of the engine.
• Inspect your brakes. The most important safety feature on a car is its brakes. Before winter officially begins, have your brakes inspected by JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge or your local dealership.
• Check antifreeze. Do you know if your car contains a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze? If you’re unsure, have your car’s antifreeze level checked or buy a tester for easy DIY maintenance.

There are many driving tips and maintenance items important for every driver and car. While time can easily get away, don’t let it get in the way of your safety! Practice safe driving and be sure to schedule routine maintenance on your Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicle.
To schedule an appointment at JT’s Chrysler Dodge and Jeep try our online scheduler or give us a call at 888-255-4016. JT’s Chrysler Dodge and Jeep is located in Lexington, SC near Columbia, at 5215 Sunset Boulevard.

Sources:
http://exchange.aaa.com/safety/roadway-safety/winter-driving-tips/

http://autorepair.about.com/od/regularmaintenance/a/winterchecklist.htm

5 Gifts Under $100 for Car Enthusiasts

The holidays are among us and that means it’s time to start thinking of gifts for loved ones. Whether you procrastinate for gift purchases or like to give yourself some time to ‘shop ‘til you drop’, JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge is here to help with five gift ideas under $100 for car enthusiasts.

From branded gear, to parts and accessories, there’s something for everyone.

1. Gear: Whether your family and friends are fans of Jeep, Dodge or Chrysler, there is ample gear for each brand! From mugs, to hats, key chains and clothes, consider purchasing branded gear for your loved ones this holiday season.
2. Parts: While parts may not be the most personal of gifts (or romantic for that matter), more than likely your loved one’s car could use a new set of wiper blades, heated mirrors and splash shields. These parts, believe it or not, can be purchased for $100 or less.
3. Gift Certificates: If you aren’t a big fan of shopping, gift certificates make for excellent stocking stuffers and presents. Loved ones can use these types of gifts however they see fit, while you can choose give the amount that doesn’t break the bank. For dealership service gift certificates, visit JT’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep.
4. Model Cars: Fun for adult car enthusiasts who are kids at heart, model cars come in a variety of makes and models, ranging in size, color and price. If you have a loved one who collects model cars for a hobby or simply enjoys a certain model car, be sure to add this option to the top of your gift giving list.
5. Accessories: From gas tank covers, to license plate frames, cargo nets and shift knob covers, there are a plethora of accessory options available that would make for great holiday gifts. For accessories specifically for Jeeps, be sure to check out a recent post on budget-friendly ways to customize your Jeep.

To help save even more this holiday season, be sure to visit JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge online to view our latest parts and service specials.

Happy Holidays from JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge!

  

Sources:

http://www.gear.jeep.com/welcome.asp

http://www.life.dodge.com/welcome.asp

http://www.collection.chrysler.com/welcome.asp

http://mopar.snaponeasy.com/en-US/default.aspx?DivisionId=3&VehicleId=302&Year=2014&EASyID=60510

The Car Owner’s Manual: What You Need to Know

According to PopularMechanics.com, the owner’s manual for a 2011 German car (which will remain nameless here) provides this advice: “If you switch off the ignition while driving, safety-relevant functions are only available with limitations, or not at all. Do not switch off the ignition while driving.”

It’s no wonder people don’t read their owner’s manuals. These manuals are big, heavy books that get weighed down by unnecessary common sense advice. Even so, there are some compelling reasons to read that manual. Five of them are listed here:

1. The manual tells you where to find your spare tire. You may know generally where the spare is, but do you know how to get to it? You don’t want to end up struggling with unfamiliar levers and switches while you’re stranded roadside. Know how to access your spare before you have a blowout.
2. The manual tells you how to use the entertainment system. Radios were complicated enough before Bluetooth and smartphone integration came into the picture. Set aside time to learn what your entertainment system can do and you’re guaranteed to get more enjoyment out of it.
3. The manual tells you what type of fluids your new car uses. If you have car troubles during regular business hours, you can call the service department at JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge and ask what type of fluid you need. But car problems tend to happen at the worst possible moment—such as late at night, when you’re on a road trip. Plan ahead by taking note of the appropriate fluids for your car.
4. The manual tells you how often your car needs service. Regular service at recommended intervals keeps your car running well. It also gives your JT’s technician the opportunity to check over the vehicle for unexpected problems. Review the service recommendations in your owner’s manual and add these items to your calendar.
5. The manual tells you how to read the icons. The icons that light up on your instrument panel are supposed to tell you about important things happening in your car. The trouble is, this form of communication only works when you know what the icons mean. Read up on them now.

In short, your owner’s manual won’t be the best read of your life, but it could be one of the most useful.

JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge, located in Lexington, S.C., is your source for new and used Jeeps. Visit us when you have questions about buying, owning or maintaining your car. Our sales staff and service technicians are dedicated to providing you with exceptional service. Find us online at www.JTsJeep.com, in store at 5215 Sunset Boulevard or by phone at (888) 255-4016.

Sources:

• http://www.autoservicemarket.com/pdf/VMD_Spring-6.pdf
• http://www.carcarepeople.com/a/3-reasons-why-you-should-read-owners-manual#revlinkLearn
• http://withyou.cenex.com/blog/did-you-read-your-owners-manual/
• http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/news/industry/14-silly-items-found-in-car-owners-manuals#slide-5

Extend the Life of Your Tires

It’s no secret that replacing tires can put a dent in your pocketbook. When purchasing a new vehicle, or putting new tires on your ride, it’s important to remember how to get the most for your money by taking steps to extend the life of your tires. Not only will maintaining your tires prolong their life, but it will also help your vehicle with fuel efficiency and optimize performance. While some tips should be managed by professionals, there are several things you can do yourself to prolong the lifespan of your new tires.

Weekly Inspections – Each week make a point to inspect your tires for nails, glass or other sharp objects which may have ended up in your tread.

Take Driving Precautions – While a set of good tires is built to withstand some rough terrain, avoiding various road hazards can protect your tires and vehicle from potential damage. One of the biggest hazards to look out for is potholes. Although sometimes un-avoidable, it’s important to reduce your speed when approaching and driving over them.

Check Tire Pressures – It’s recommended that tire pressures be checked every 3,000 miles to ensure a smooth ride. Additionally, by driving with appropriate tire pressure, you can maximize fuel efficiency.

Routine Tire Rotations and Balances – In order to keep your tires in tip-top shape, you should have your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. An easy way to include this in your vehicle maintenance is to have this service completed with every-other oil change.

Inspect Wheel Alignment – Your owner’s manual will outline the recommended times to have your alignment assessed.

The service experts at JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge can assist you in finding the best tires for your budget and driving style in addition to helping you keep up on necessary maintenance.

 

Source: Goodyear Tires

Auto Depreciation: An Overlooked Part of Ownership Cost

Most things you buy naturally decrease in value once they’ve been used. Usually, this value loss isn’t a big deal. When you buy a new pair of shoes at Macy’s, for example, you don’t think much about reselling them for the price Macy’s charged. But when you buy a new car, it might bother you that the car is worth less the day after you buy it.

When Auto Depreciation Matters 

A new car loses, on average, about 11 percent of its value as you drive it off the lot. The same car will then continue to lose 15-25% of its value annually for the next five years[1]. That’s the bad news. The good news is that depreciation costs don’t impact you much unless you sell or wreck the car. In either situation, the buyer/insurance company will only pay you for what the car is worth — which is what you paid minus depreciation.

If you tend to buy new cars every few years, then depreciation costs will add up. You can do two things to minimize the sting:

• Lease. Leasing generally allows for lower out-of-pocket expenses than buying. You’ll still pay for the car’s depreciation during the lease period, but your downpayment and monthly payment can often be lower on a lease vs. a loan for the same car. That translates to lower overall costs for each vehicle you drive.
• Make a larger downpayment. If you don’t want to lease, think about increasing your downpayment. Doing so will minimize the chances that you’ll owe more than the car’s worth when it’s time to sell. You’d essentially be paying for some of the depreciation upfront, rather than financing it and paying interest.

Choosing a Car That Holds its Value

Another strategy for managing depreciation is choosing the right car. A 2013 Jeep Wrangler, for example, holds its value better than a Toyota 4Runner or Honda CR-V from the same year. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Wrangler’s resale value at 36 months is 70.3%. After five years, the Wrangler is worth 57% of the purchase price. The 2013 Dodge Charger also holds its value well, with a resale value of 53.7% at 36 months[2].

On the flip side, TheCarConnection.com reports that luxury cars like the Jaguar XJL Supersport and Mercedez-Benz CL 65 AMG tend to lose their value very quickly[3].

Do you think about depreciation when you are buying or leasing a car? Leave us a comment and let us know!

Visit JT’s Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Lexington and Columbia to learn more about new and used Jeeps. We’re here to answer your questions and help you select the Jeep that suits your lifestyle! For more information, visit http://www.jtsjeep.com.

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[1] http://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/how-fast-does-my-new-car-lose-value-infographic.html
[2] http://www.kbb.com/new-cars/best-resale-value-awards/best-resale-top-10-cars-2013/
[3] http://www.thecarconnection.com/news/1082545_vehicles-under-50k-that-hold-their-value-the-worst