Happy New Year!

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Which Car Color Is Right for You?

When you’re buying a new car, you’re probably going to focus on features first. But after that? It’s all about the color. Did you know that different colors give off different vibes? Here’s what the drivers around you could be thinking when they see the color of your car:

Gold: Warm, Intelligent, Glamorous
Gray: Neutral, Sober, Practical
Dark Green: Well-Balanced, Trustworthy, Traditional
Light Green: Organic, No-Fuss, Understated
Dark Blue: Confident, Credible, Authoritative
Light-Mid Blue: Calm, Faithful, True
Brown: Powerful, Unique
Beige: Natural, Down-To-Earth
Black: Powerful, Classic, Elegant
White: Pure, Pristine, Direct
Silver: Futuristic, Prestigious, Elegant
Red: Sensual, Dynamic, Outgoing

Learn about what other colors could say about you and read the original article here: http://bit.ly/Kqr9EV

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Traveling This Holiday Season? Keep Your Kids Safe!

Car seats save lives! Did you know that only 3% of children ages 1 - 3 ride in a rear-facing car seat? To ensure that your children stay safe in the car, make sure they’re traveling properly. Check out this infographic to get more information on how to protect your kids when they’re riding in a car:
http://www.edgarsnyder.com/infographics/car-seats-infographic.html

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Can You Fix Your Blind Spot?

Your blind spot can severely impair your ability to drive safely. While many car manufacturers are adding special gadgets to their vehicles to reduce this liability, there may be a low-tech method that can work just as well:

Passive blind spot warning systems involve -- surprise! -- a mirror. Talk about low tech! Many car manufacturers will offer you the alternative to put a special convex mirror in the corner of your current external rearview mirror that can see into areas where normal rearview mirrors cannot. And if you don't have one of these on your current car, you can probably walk into your local auto parts store, buy one, and install it yourself (though be warned that experts advise against self installation because the precise positioning of these mirrors is crucial). Amazingly, tests have shown these special mirrors, which are the cheapest form of blind-spot monitoring system imaginable, are every bit as effective as sophisticated (and expensive) radar-based systems. And surveys show that consumers who have used both actually prefer the mirror to the radar -- if only because the mirror doesn't blink annoying warning lights at you or make beeping noises. So it's possible that the best state-of-the-art blind spot monitoring system may be one that's been state-of-the-art since the ancient past.

Read the whole article over at How Stuff Works here: http://bit.ly/UKCukS

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Do you have to change the oil every 3,000 miles?

If you check your car's user manual, you'll probably find you've been changing your oil more often than you need to, at least according to the people who designed your car. Most carmakers abandoned the 3,000-mile (4,828-kilometer) interval long ago, opting instead to advise their customers to go 5,000 or 7,500 miles (8,046 or 12,070 kilometers) between oil changes [source: MEMA]. Some people even go 10,000 miles (16,093 kilometers) or more without any guilt -- or damage to the engine.

The 3,000-mile guideline dates back to a time when motor oil wasn't quite as advanced as it is now. It used to be that if oil were left in the crankcase too long, it would start to degrade, causing a buildup of sludge [source: Torbjornsen]. But over the years, as tailpipe-emissions regulations have changed, so have engines and the oils that keep them running smoothly. Today's motor oils don't break down as quickly. Under ideal driving conditions, some synthetic oils can go about 25,000 miles (40,233 kilometers) [source: CIWMB].

Of course, driving conditions are seldom ideal. Lots of idling, stop-and-go traffic, extremely hot or cold weather, humidity and towing can all decrease the lifespan of engine oil. Plus, every car is a little different. The interval that is perfectly fine for one car could be way too long for another. So in reality, very few drivers will go 25,000 miles without an oil change, even if they spring for high-grade synthetic oil. And most of them shouldn't, although some can go 10,000 without a problem [source: CIWMB].

And yet most people still aim for 3,000-mile changes, perhaps because they don't know it's excessive, or perhaps because they adhere to an extreme better-safe-than-sorry principle. The result is millions of extra dollars wasted on oil changes and millions of extra gallons of oil potentially polluting the environment.

The best advice, then? Ignore the oil industry and go by your car's user manual, which will probably advise an interval of 5,000 miles or more. You'll save some money -- and possibly keep the world a little greener in the process.

Read more: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood/vehicle-maintenance/change-oil-3000-miles.htm

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Top 5 Signs of Engine Trouble

5. Warning Lights: If your car is working properly, these are what Audra Fordin of "What Women Auto Know" calls "hello, good morning" lights. You fire up theengine and the dashboard lights up like carnival. This is the car's computer checking everything out. One by one, each of the lights turns off and you're ready to drive.

If they don't turn off, though, that's bad. Either very bad or slightly bad, depending on which light remains lit. These lights are connected to sensors that monitor everything your car does. If something seems out of whack, the computer will use these lights to tell you what it is. It can't use its words; it's not KITT, you know.

The lights you'll probably want to pay the most attention to are:

• Check Oil/Oil Level Low
• Oil Pressure Low
• Check Engine

The "Check Engine" lamp is perhaps the most troubling of lights because it could mean so many different things, from "you didn't screw the gas cap on tightly enough" to "look out for pistons flying through the hood and into the stratosphere." The easiest way to find out what this light is telling you is to hook your vehicle up to a scan tool. This diagnostic tool looks a little like an oversized calculator and plugs into a communication port inside the car. After you instruct it to perform the scan, it "speaks" with your car's computers to find out exactly what's prompting the light to turn on.

You can purchase your own tool from an auto parts store for less than $100, but then what? You're probably not going to put on your coveralls and crawl under the hood yourself. Instead, visit a service station, where a technician will use the scan tool to identify the trouble.

4. Doing the Jerk: Driving should be free of jerking, surging, or stalling. It should be smooth and easy, more like ballet than Beyonce. What's cool in the club is not cool in an engine.

But if your car is popping and locking, that's a pretty strong sign of engine trouble. It could be due to fouledspark plugs, clogged fuel lines or fuel filter, the main computer reading the driving situation wrong, or many, many other issues.

The last thing you want is for your vehicle to take its own sweet time accelerating, or to give out entirely, as you're merging onto a busy highway with other vehicles barreling down behind you. Likewise, high revving at idle or acceleration that's out of your control are situations you should have a qualified technician investigate and repair as soon as possible.

Preventive maintenance, including regular oil changes and belt replacements at recommended intervals help to keep you out of the danger zone.

3. Rude noises: A tapping or popping that sounds like Barney doing deep knee bends (which never happens), for instance, could indicate detonation taking place within the engine's cylinders. This happens when gasoline ignites prematurely in the combustion chamber of the cylinders and can potentially result in expensive piston damage.

If you hear a grinding noise when you attempt to start your car, your starter motor might need to be adjusted or replaced. If you hear grinding when shifting between gears, it could be transmission replacement time! It's not as fun as it sounds. And if you're driving a manual transmission, do not listen to Uncle Barney when he says, "Grind it 'til you find it."

In most cases, a little bit of noise from either your car or Uncle Barney -- like a mild ticking or clicking -- might be normal. Cars with roller rockers in their valve trains, for instance, emit some ticking noise; and fuel-injected vehicles also produce slightly audible clicks from the injectors [source: 2CarPros.com].

If in doubt, listen intently, try to track down the general area of the noise as best you can and then attempt to explain it in as much detail as you can to a qualified service professional.

2. Foul Smells: Cars rarely smell delightful. They're burning gasoline or diesel fuel, there's hot metal under the hood, and your brother ate a burrito just before he got in the passenger seat. There's not much you can do about your brother besides open all the windows and monitor his lunch intake, but any other automotive smells that make it into the passenger compartment spell trouble.

The scent may signal oil or coolant leaking from their normally closed-loop systems, or it may indicate dangerous exhaust gases invading your car's interior. Car and truck exhaust contains toxic gases such as carbon monoxide, so if the inside of your car smells as if you were standing behind your car, get out and get it fixed. Fight the urge to take a little nap first. So sleepy. That's the carbon monoxide talking, friends. At least open a window on your way to the shop.

The smell of burning rubber could mean you just did an awesome smoky burnout, or it could be telling you that drive belts or accessory belts beneath the hood are damaged, loose, or worn out. It could also mean that a rubber hose carrying important fluids is touching something that it shouldn't -- something that's too hot and is melting the rubber.

In any case, it's a good idea to act sooner rather than later, as these nasty smells could be linked to a much more crucial and expensive component.

1. Smoke Signals: Smoke can come from the front or back of the car, and it's not good in either case. But the tailpipe will send-up colored smoke in attempt to tell you what the problem is. Here is your secret decoder ring:

Blue smoke: Oil is escaping from its intended passageways within the engineand is being burned along with fuel. Of course, you could always keep adding engine oil to the crankcase to prevent it from being all burned up (and risking serious engine damage), but the smart thing to do would be to take the car in to have any worn or damaged seals repaired [source: Torbjornsen].

White smoke: Water condensation or antifreeze has mixed with the fuel supply. Again, adding coolant or antifreeze to your car's cooling system will keep your car from overheating for as long as you remember to keep feeding the reservoir, but the wise move is to have it checked out as soon as possible.

If the smoke is coming from under your hood, that probably means you ignored white smoke coming out of the tailpipe, and now your engine is overheating. Or maybe you completely forgot to add coolant at all, and the engine overheated.

Article courtesy of: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/under-the-hood/diagnosing-car-problems/mechanical/5-signs-engine-trouble.htm#page=5

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10 Things Teens Should Know About Cars and Driving

When a teenager gets a driver license, it signifies freedom and the lure of the open road. But with this newfound freedom comes a host of new situations and possible problems that most teen drivers have never encountered before. It's a good idea to review these scenarios with new drivers in your family, and discuss how to handle them before they happen for real.

From traffic stops to road rage, here's a primer on what you need to tell teen drivers as they take to the roads.

1. What to do when you're stopped by a police officer
Safely pull to the side of the road, turn off your car, roll down the window and keep your hands visible. Don't make any sudden moves or argue with the officer. Do your arguing in traffic court.

2. How to deal with a flat tire
Pull completely off the road, even if it means destroying the tire. Call roadside assistance and let that person change the tire. If you have a spare (many cars now only have an inflation kit) and know how to change the tire, make sure you are out of traffic and in plain sight of oncoming traffic before changing it yourself.

3. What to do when the "check engine" light comes on
If there is any change in the car's performance, any mechanical noises, smoke from the tailpipe or electrical smells, stop the car and call for assistance. If there are none of these symptoms, take the car to a dealer and let them diagnose the problem. However, if you just bought gas, the light might just be indicating that the gas cap is loose. Tighten the cap and continue driving. The light should go off on its own.

4. How to deal with a friend who is about to drive under the influence
Don't get in the car. Do anything not to drive with an intoxicated person, and that includes calling your parents for a lift or paying for a taxi. Your next move is to try to prevent your drunken friend from hurting themselves or someone else.

5. How to drive safely while talking on a cell phone
Most states ban all cell phone use by novice drivers, so be sure you know if these provisions apply where you live. If it's permissible to use a cell, always use a hands-free device so you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Learn how to pair your phone with the car's Bluetooth system. Don't even think about texting while driving (no, not even at stoplights).

6. How to get an honest quote for an automotive repair
Search Edmunds.com's Car Maintenance Guide or the Web to get an estimate for how much the repair should cost. Search online for garages with high customer ratings and ask friends for recommended garages. Call the garage and ask for a ballpark estimate and let the garage know you are contacting other places for their best quote. Use your intuition to make the final decision on whom to trust.

7. How to buy a new car
Don't just wander onto a dealership's car lot. Instead, contact the Internet department of several dealerships to get multiple quotes and compare these with Edmunds.com's True Market Value^®price for any car you're interested in. Make sure you check incentives and rebates. Follow up with phone calls to the Internet managers of these dealerships to verify the terms of their offers. Finally, ask the dealership to deliver the car to your home or office to avoid the hard sell in the finance and insurance office.

8. What to do after an auto accident
If the car is drivable and there are no serious injuries, turn on your flashers and pull safely out of traffic. Call the police to report the accident. Exchange insurance information with the other driver but refrain from discussing the accident and who is at fault. Make notes and use your cell phone's camera to take pictures of the cars involved.

9. How to drive in rain and snow
Reduce your speed and leave more room between your vehicle and those in front of you. Understand how to handle skids. If possible, practice reacting to skidding in safe conditions, such as a snow-covered empty parking lot. Understand that a car might hydroplane on a rain puddle on the road and learn how to react to driving with reduced traction and visibility.

10. How to avoid road rage situations
Understand the severe consequences to you, your car and your driving record when minor disagreements escalate to life-threatening situations. When someone offends you, take a deep breath and know that your anger will dissolve in minutes. Don't anger other drivers by cutting them off or tailgating. If you've inadvertently angered another driver, don't get drawn into interacting with them. Ignore them or, if necessary, change your route. Finally, repeat this phrase: It's just not worth it.

Read more: http://www.edmunds.com/driving-tips/10-things-teens-should-know-about-cars-and-driving.html

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Avoid “Turkey” of a Weekend with Pre-Trip Vehicle Check

One way to avoid a turkey of a Thanksgiving road trip is to make sure the vehicle you will be driving is running well. A 10-minute pre-trip check is small potatoes compared to a big helping of inconvenience if you break down many miles away from home, according to the Car Care Council.

“A pre-trip vehicle check provides peace of mind, helping reduce the chance of costly car trouble and providing an opportunity to have any repairs performed by one’s own trusted technician before hitting the road,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “While no inspection can guarantee a car’s performance, it’s comforting to know proper precautions were taken to ensure a stress-free Thanksgiving road trip.”

The Car Care Council suggests the following 10-minute vehicle check to help ensure safety and reliability on the road:

• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
• Check the hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check lighting to identify any problems with exterior and interior lighting as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen.
• Check wipers. Wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Make sure the windshield wipers are working properly and keep the reservoir filled with solvent.

The Car Care Council also recommends that motorists restock their emergency kit. To save on fuel costs during the trip, the council suggests that motorists avoid aggressive driving, observe the speed limit and avoid excessive idling. Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Courtesy of: http://www.carcare.org/2012/11/avoid-turkey-of-a-weekend-with-pre-trip-vehicle-check/

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Tire Care Tips

Tires are essential to keeping you on the road in more ways than you might think... Worn tread can cause hydroplaning and can force you off the road. Wear down a tire enough and you'll begin to expose the inner side-walls making it harder to change, and low grip can lead to sliding on slightly wet roads or roads with even a little amount of rocks and sand.

Inspect your tires for any tread issues, and have the alignment checked by a technician especially before a long road trip.  Your wheels and trim also need attention – After driving on roads that have been treated throughout the winter, or if you find yourself driving on a slightly dust coated road, it’s a good idea to clean the tires with mild soap and water and dry them with a soft cloth.  Make sure you don’t use an abrasive cleaner on the chrome of your rims!

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Tips for Driving in the rain:

How do we deal with hydroplaning and low view distance? AAA offers these tips of advice:

Go slowly. Slow down and increase following distances. Speed limits are set for ideal road conditions. When it rains, visibility is reduced and braking distances increase.

Light up. Use low-beam headlights to help others see your car and increase your visibility. Remember Maryland law requires headlights to be on when windshield wipers are in use.

Be careful of standing and running water. As little as six inches of water on a road can cause most drivers to lose control of their vehicle. Nearly half of all people who die in flash floods are in cars and have underestimated the power of flood waters or have not acted quickly enough to escape. Do not drive through moving water or flooded areas. If floodwaters arise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can safely do so. If not, do not open your car doors, stay within your vehicle and call 911.

Be a follower. Driving in the tracks of other vehicles can improve traction and help avoid hydroplaning.

Readmore: http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/weather/safety/safety-tips-for-driving-in-heavy-rain#ixzz28wNQwICo

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Tire Buying Tips

Understand Tire Basics

Simply put, a tire is a flexible container of compressed air. This air container support the vehicle's load; propels a vehicle forward, backward and side-to-side; stops the vehicle; and cushions the load from road imperfections.

Today's tires have between 19 and 25 different components. Tires are built from the inside out rather than the outside in. The heart of every tire is an inner liner. Its job is to give the tire shape and hold in air. Fabric belts are wrapped around the inner liner. The bead is fastened to the bottom of the fabric belts and holds the tire to the wheel.

On top of the fabric belts are steel belts. These belts have two jobs: They give the tire stability and make the tread pattern as flat as possible. (A flatter tread means more contact with the road.) The tire tread is on top of the belts. There are different tread patterns for different types of tires. The sidewall on the side of the tire gives it stiffness and ride characteristics. A taller, softer sidewall will absorb more bumps, while a shorter, stiffer sidewall will provide better cornering ability and sharper steering response.

On the sidewall of every passenger-car and light-truck tire is an alphanumeric code that describes the dimensions of the tire. For most tires, this code will start with a "P." Some may start with an "LT" to signify light truck. Some tires may have a "Max. Load" indication. When selecting new tires, it is important to make sure a tire's load rating is at least a high as the tire you are replacing.

Choose the Right Tire

Perhaps the biggest mistake a consumer can make whenreplacing tires is not using the correct size. On the sidewall of your tire, you'll find a code that tells the tire's size and capabilities. Here's a sample code:

P195/60R16 63H M+S

• P - Type of tire
• 195 - Width of the tire across the tread in millimeters
• 60 - Aspect ratio of the sidewall compared to the width
• R - Radial construction
• 16 - Diameter of the rim in inches
• 63 - Tire's load rating
• H - Tire's speed rating
• M+S - Tire is suitable for all-season driving

If the tire-size code starts with LT instead of P, it means the tire is a light-truck tire. Light-truck tires are designed to have higher-load carrying capacities and are usually found on pickups and SUVs. These vehicles are not required to have LT tires, and in many cases, the original-equipment specification calls for passenger-car tires.

The speed rating translates into the tire's ability to dissipate heat, or prevent heat build-up. Heat is a tire's enemy. The more heat, the faster the tire wears, and the faster a tire might break down. A tire with a higher speed rating can dissipate more heat on long highway trips. If a consumer were to spend little time on the highway, the speed rating might not be an important factor in choosing a replacement tire.

Tires are speed rated from 99 to 186 miles per hour (159.3 to 299.3 kilometers per hour). The most common speed ratings are T (118 miles per hour or 189.9 kilometers per hour) and H (130 miles per hour or 209.2 kilometers per hour). Both of those ratings clearly exceed the nationally posted speed limits and would make excellent long-distance highway tires. If a consumer were to drive only in urban situations at low speeds, a tire with an S (112 miles per hour or 180.2 kilometers per hour) speed rating might be completely acceptable.

Another important factor in choosing a replacement tire is the load rating. The load capacity number on the tire-size code indicates the load-carrying capacity of that single tire. When selecting replacement tires, consumers have to be careful not to select a tire with a lower load-carrying capacity.

Regardless of a tire's speed rating, load-carrying ability, size and construction, traction are the keys to safety. A common mistake is to select a tire without considering its ability to hold the road. Savvy consumers will balance a tire's traction in dry conditions, in wet conditions and in the snow. If you desire a high-performance tire but live in northern climates, consider a "winter" tire for driving in the snowy season. If you live where the weather is warm all year, a touring tire may suit your needs just fine.

Most consumers will make the mistake of waiting until spring to get new tires. As a tire wears out, dry traction generally increases and wet and snow traction decrease. So the best time to buy new tires is not in the spring, but in the fall.

Passenger-car and light-truck tires are very different. Pickup and SUV owners will generally select passenger-car tires because they are less costly and offer a smoother ride. However, if a vehicle will consistently be loaded with cargo or will be asked to pull a heavy trailer, then perhaps the higher load-carrying capacity of a light-truck tire would be the better choice.

 

Consider How You Drive

Regardless of where you get new tires, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Know the size and type of tire recommended by your owner's manual.
• Determine your needs and priorities. What type of driving you will be doing? Do you prefer a soft ride, a firm ride, or a mix of the two?
• Make sure you purchase a tire that is capable of supporting the load your vehicle might demand. Don't buy a passenger-car tire if you need a light-truck tire.
• Don't buy more tire than you need. Consumers often overestimate their tire needs. In most cases, a quality all-season tire will suffice where a touring tire might be suggested.
• Keep in mind that any tire selection is a balance between ride quality, noise suppression, fuel economy, wear, load capability and cost. It's the job of the tire-store expert and the consumer to select a tire that is the right balance of each.
• An interesting trend in the automotive aftermarket industry is "plus sizing." It involves mounting bigger wheels and tires on a vehicle to enhance the look or improve handling.

Plus sizing usually increases cornering response and traction. Often these gains come at the expense of increased ride harshness. In addition, these larger wheels and tires are often not as durable as OEM wheels and tires.

A few items of note for consumers considering plus sizing:

• Make sure that the tire and wheel are approved for use on your vehicle.
• Make sure that the replacement tire has the same load-carrying capacity.
• The new wheel and tire combination should be within 3 percent +/- the original tire diameter.
• Make sure that a new tire placard is installed to inform future owners of the correct tire pressure.

New vs. Used Tires

You've probably seen used car tire piles along the side of the road at some point. But should you purchase a used tire to save money and will it hold up as long? Most people opt for new tires, but some look to used tires as a way to save money.

Consider the fact that some retailers have deals where you buy three tires and you get the fourth free. You may not necessarily need to replace that fourth tire, but you do because it's free. Used tires that are only slightly worn, like in this situation, may be a good option to save a little money.

The flip side is purchasing an old or worn out tire that isn't safe. Used tires may have defects, punctures or tread-wear you may or may not be able to see. When considering purchasing a used tire you can test the depth of the tread by using a penny. Simply flip the penny upside down and place it inside each of the tire's tread grooves. If the top of Lincoln's head can be seen from any of the grooves then the tread is too low [source: Consumer Reports].

If the tread is still good, you still need to inspect the tire for any defects. This may be difficult and some problems may not be noticeable until the tire is on the vehicle. Purchasing a used tire that has already been plugged or patched may save money, but is not a good idea. Worn tires will not stop as fast and will be more likely to skid on wet surfaces [source: Consumer Reports].

New tires will come with some type of guarantee or warranty that a used tire will not have. If you want a little piece of mind that your tires are in the best condition possible, buy new ones.

Read more tire buying tips: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/buying-selling/cg-tire-buying-tips.htm

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2012 Relay For Life of Wharton County

The 2012 Relay For Life of Wharton County will be tomorrow, October 20th at 6:00 PM at Wharton Tiger Football Stadium.  Visit http://bit.ly/Qw8FFb   for more information.

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Fuel Consumption is Directly Related to Vehicle Care

“Many motorists don’t realize that fuel consumption is directly related to vehicle care and has a significant impact on how much you pay at the pump,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Gas prices can climb quickly, but the good news is that you can fight back. By properly maintaining your vehicle, you can improve your vehicle’s fuel economy and keep more money in your pocket.”

In addition to vehicle maintenance, modifying driving habits, such as observing the speed limit and avoiding quick stops and starts, can also increase fuel efficiency. Consolidating trips, avoiding excessive idling and removing unnecessary items from the trunk are simple ways to reduce fuel consumption.

• Keep your car properly tuned to improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.
• Keep tires properly inflated and improve gas mileage by 3 percent.
• Replace dirty or clogged air filters on older vehicles to improve gas mileage by as much as 14 percent.
• Replace dirty spark plugs, which can reduce mileage by two miles per gallon.
• Change oil regularly and gain another mile per gallon.
• Check the gas cap. Damaged, loose or missing gas caps allow gas to vaporize into the air

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a free copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

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The 2013 Dodge Dart

Unknown Reviewer:

The 2013 Dart is a big hit, and until this weekend I didn't know why. It's not a luxury sedan, and if price is of not a concern you would probably purchase a $57,000 Cadillac or something of that nature. But one thing is for sure the 2013 Dart is a force to be reckoned with.

For months I have been droning on and on about how I need to drive the 2013 Dodge Dart. It has sexy outward appearance, bears the oh so trusty dodge emblem, and is allegedly all things tech crammed into a neat tasty package. So I got my chance to drive both, a mid-package Focus and Dart.

The Focus was certainly a smooth ride and the looks were everything I thought they would be. At 6'5" I fit comfortably in the drivers seat with just enough room for a passenger behind (although they would be a bit cramped)... but that was where the amazement ceased. The dash was admittedly a bit intimidating (although pretty and fitting for the car) and the engine, not so impressive.

Then there was the Dodge Dart... a oasis in the midst of a desert. My friend managed to pick one up for around $13,000 and it proved to be magnitudes more exciting.

Let's start with thing number one... the engine is amazing. This car can get real-mpg up to about 38mpg even with my lead foot and the acceleration is smooth and consistent. The car isn't light and pushy like previous smaller versions of Dodge (like the Neon) and the center console fits the look of the car very much and provides pertinent and crucial information.

The other features looked and felt very practical and the interior is built of solid materials as well as comfortable seats. If anyone knows about seat comfort it would be me at 350lbs. This car is more than I expected overall and my expectations were low. Needless to say, purchasing is in my future.

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Crazy Fun With Jeep

What's the most fun you've ever had with your Jeep? A roadtrip? Mudding in the woods? How about wake boarding through a canal?

Autoblog writes:


These are the kinds of activities that one may conjure up and say "what if?" but few ever actually follow through on. That said, we don't recommend trying this at home (err... your "home" canal, that is).

The video, by Devin Graham, perhaps inaccurately named "Ghetto Wakeboarding," shows a pack of suburban kids towing a series of wakeboard-riding daredevils down a rural canal by way of Jeep Wrangler. It looks like a heck of a lot of fun.

We say that the video may be inaccurately named, because we could never envision this taking place in the ghetto. As a matter of fact, this looks like a pretty well-to-do group of teens, on a pristine late-model Jeep and filmed on a Canon 5D Mark III– not an inexpensive piece of equipment by any stretch.

See video of the Jeep wakeboarding daredevil: http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/jeep-wrangler-tow-ropes-canal-wakeboarding-fun/

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Driven By Design

Are you "Driven By Design"? Are you in love with the new Dart? Would you like to win the Dart for FREE?! Then this is the right competition for you!

Enter the "Driven by Design: Design Your Dodge Dart Dream Garage" Pinterest Contest What's the key to any dream garage? A dream car! You could win a customized 2013 Dodge Dart and a $5,000 gift card to create a dream garage.

Here's how it works:

1. Create a "My Dream Garage" Pinterest board using you account on Pinterest.com.
2. To qualify to enter, pin your favorite Dodge Dart image from below, or customize a Dodge Dart on the Dodge Customizer. Then add the hashtag #DodgeDart.

Read more contest rules: http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/dodge-dart/?ism=ktsSep1412Facebook1.

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Looking For Something Different?

If you're looking for something fresh and a little out of the ordinary stop your search here with the 2013 Enclave.

The Enclave has a new panoramic-style LED lit cabin which emits soft blue ambient lighting at night, however is completely invisible during the day... makes for a sort of pleasant surprise with the upgraded cabin, one that's sure to impress friends.

GM Authority wrote the following on the new Enclave:

Buick designers look to home interior design for inspiration to design in-vehicle ambient lighting. For example, the major light sources (like TVs) in a high-end home at night are complemented by soft, evenly-distributed interior lighting elements. Similarly, the ambient lighting sources found in today’s Buick vehicles create a warm, inviting driving experience by complementing the bright output of gauges and IntelliLink infotainment system displays with soft, Ice Blue lighting radiating from hidden sources.

Read more: http://gmauthority.com/blog/2012/09/heres-how-buick-lights-its-cabins-using-ambient-lighting/

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How To Make Your Car Last Longer

April may be national car care month, but it never hurts to go the extra mile to keep your car running longer.


“Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Following a routine maintenance program makes financial sense, extending useful vehicle life and helping avoid costly repairs down the road.”

The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best for the long haul:

-Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.

-Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.

-Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.

-Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

-Schedule a tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.

-Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.

-Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

-Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

-Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.


Tips from: http://www.carcare.org/2012/04/car-care-the-key-to-a-long-lasting-vehicle/

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Buick Encore: Stylish - Fuel Efficient

The Buick Encore is certainly a head turner in the SUV / Crossover segment. The Encore is not only designed to offer a luxury experience at a well below average price, but also intends to beat both Ford AND Chrysler products in fuel efficiency bringing a whole to game to the crossover market!

Freep writes:


The six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive version of the Encore received an EPA fuel economy estimate of 25 m.p.g. in the city and 33 m.p.g. on the highway for a combined rating of 28 m.p.g.

The EPA estimated that the average driver would spend about $1,900 per year on gasoline for the Encore.

GM bragged that the 2013 Ford Escape’s combined EPA fuel economy rating is 26 m.p.g. while Chrysler Group’s Jeep Compass’ combined rating is 25 m.p.g. GM also boasted that the Encore beats the Mini Countryman S and Volkswagen Tiguan on combined fuel economy.

Read more: http://www.freep.com/article/20120828/BUSINESS0101/120828037/GM-says-2013-Buick-Encore-will-beat-Ford-Chrysler-products-fuel-efficiency?odyssey=nav%7Chead

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Turn Your Dodge Into A Mobile Hotspot

Dodge lovers everywhere are going to enjoy this. Sprint has teamed up with Dodge to make uConnect systems like the ones found in the 2013 Dodge Ram pair with cellular devices to create a mobile hotspot.

What exactly does that mean? Well, if you love using your laptop while on the road (Say at a rest stop, etc...), you'll now have Wi-Fi access!

Wired.com writes:


The pickup truck isn’t what you’d call a high-tech platform. But for building contractors and other tradesmen, trucks serve as a rolling office, which is why Sprint and Chrysler chose the newly redesigned 2013 Ram 1500 – along with an even more unlikely vehicle, the all-new SRT Viper – to debut a new connectivity system called Uconnect Access. It will include the usual connected-car features: internet access, in-dash apps, a smartphone app for remotely controlling aspects of the vehicle, telematics services such as emergency assistance, and both on-board and off-board cloud-based voice recognition.

But Chrysler is taking a different tack on in-car Wi-Fi access, adding a proprietary twist on app access in what is already a fractured, siloed approach among automakers. And Uconnect Access has a couple of quirks when it comes to off-board voice rec and emergency assistance.

Read more: http://www.wired.com/autopia/2012/08/sprint-dodge-ram-uconnect/

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Win 1 of 2 Dodge Darts!

What's better than owning a new Dodge Dart? Having Gotten it FREE!

Courtesy of Dodge and the Ultimate Fighting Championship, here’s your chance to attend UFC 152 in Toronto on Saturday, September 22, 2012.

Not only can you watch a great fighting match, but moving on you can qualify to win one of two brand new 2013 Dodge Darts customized by ultimate fighting stars Joseph Benavidez and Demetrious Johnson. They’ll be battling in Toronto for the first-ever UFC Flyweight title.

Johnson’s Dart will be built by Kelderman Air Suspension Systems, while TS Designs will be tricking out Benavidez’s Dart. Vote for your favorite fighter and maybe you can be the proud new owner of a custom Dodge Dart!

You can get more info at the official contest Facebook page.

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Amped Up

Jeep has taken a bold product and made it even more bold by adding some attitude.

There's no better fit for this change than the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 destined for 2013 buyers.

Cars.com writes:

Jeep's amped-up Grand Cherokee SRT8 is already loaded with attitude, but apparently it's not enough. Two aggressive-looking appearance packages will join the SRT8 lineup for 2013.

The white Alpine and black Vapor special edition models add a new Black Vapor chrome finish to the standard 20-inch wheels; a black-gloss exterior finish; new hood and door badges; and a unique grill, light bar and step pad.

Read More: http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2012/08/jeep-adds-more-attitude-to-2013-grand-cherokee-srt8.html .

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Crisis Center Bowling Tournament

The EL Campo Crisis Center is hosting a Bowling Tournament for Wharton County this Saturday, August 4th.

Morning Registration is 9:00 a.m. - bowl times at 10:00 a.m. and afternoon Registration is Noon, bowl times at1:00 p.m.

Entry Fee: $40.00 per team with checks payable to Crisis Center, and entry forms can be found at the Bowling Center.

Raffle tickets are now on sale for the 50/50 raffle and silent auction, and we still need sponsors!If interested contact El Campo P.D. Officer Cindy Howell at 979-543-5311 or Executive Director Eugene Davis at 979-245-9109 in Bay City.

"Our mission is to create an environment where violence and abuse are not tolerated in the communities we serve by providing crisis intervention services to family violence, sexual assault, and child abuse victims, including providing awareness and prevention services to the community."

If you're interested in joining this event or need more info please visit the official event page on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/events/243135609138329/

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True Luxury

There must be something special about the new Buick Verano as it has drivers everywhere going crazy for it resulting in the best June sales for Buick in the past 6 years!

ReadMe writes:


As part of Buick's strategy to bring added comfort and convenience to smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles, the compact 2012 Verano uses an Ecotec 2.4-liter engine to return up to 32 mpg on the highway, yet it also includes a bevy of upscale features. The Buick Verano comes standard with the brand's IntelliLink infotainment system and QuietTuning technology, which minimizes sounds and vibrations to create a more serene cabin.


"The Buick Verano is striking a chord with young professionals by offering an efficient ride that is also rewarding inside," said Nick Kisielewski, general manager of Quirk Buick GMC, a Manchester, NH Buick dealer. "Many New Hampshire drivers who may not have considered a Buick in the past are drawn in by the fact that they can get so many luxury features in a smaller, more practical car."


While the 2012 Buick Verano is already contributing to the brand's bottom line, buyers that have been waiting for a punchier luxury ride will want to look into the 2013 Buick Verano Turbo. Arriving at dealerships by the end of the year, the Verano Turbo will house an Ecotec 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that generates 250 horsepower, a boost of 70 horsepower compared to the standard Verano. Additional performance-focused features will include a dual exhaust, sport pedals and a rear spoiler.


Read more: http://readme.readmedia.com/Buicks-Verano-Helps-Brand-Post-Best-June-Sales-in-Six-Years/4710982

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Experience Buick:

Experience a new lease on luxury with a new Buick!

Get a new special 24 month lease on a Buick and you'll receive 2 years of scheduled maintenance, 2 years of On Star, and 2 years of Sirius XM Radio!

The following Vehicles qualify:

•2012 Verano - $199/month for 24 months

•2012 Regal Turbo- $259/month for 24 months

•2012 LaCrosse- $279/month for 24 months

•2012 Enclave- $299/month for 24 months

To start your new lease visit us online at: www.donelliott.com or for more details visit Buicks website at: http://www.hartonchevy.com/AboutSpecials?p=buick-2012-Experience-MultiCar Don't miss out on this once in a lifetime offer!

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Dodge Dart Pushes Marketing

The Dodge Dart has certainly been a welcoming new attraction to Dodge. It's sleek style, the technology inside, and 41mpg are enough to make anyone's head turn. Now Dodge is ramping up advertising with the latest commercial for the Dart aired during the MLB All-Star Game.

DigitalTrends writes:


The Dodge Dart media campaign won’t kick into high gear until September, but that hasn’t stopped Chrysler from giving us a glimpse at this hotly anticipated compact car.


The spot, which is titled “How to Change Cars Forever,” aired last night during the Major League Baseball All-Star Game and kicks off the Dart’s “New Rules” ad campaign.


With the Jay-Z and Kanye West single “No Church in the Wild” bumping in the background, we’re treated to a humor-filled, rapid-fire look at what goes into designing a car from the ground up: apparently lots of coffee and little sleep. There’s even a brief cameo by New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady for that obligatory celeb tie-in.


“Adding a dose of fun, creative license and Dodge brand humor, [the ad] captures the meticulous process of starting with a simple idea and developing it into a revolutionary new car,” says Olivier Francois, head of marketing for Chrysler Group LLC. “[With the commercial] we wanted to provide a peek inside what it takes to bring a new car to fruition.”

Read more: http://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/chrysler-preps-dodge-dart-marketing-push-during-mlb-all-star-game/#ixzz20QqYPIEF

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What To Do About Your Check Engine Light!

Imagine this: You're driving down the highway, everything seems smooth... No strange noises, smooth ride, then it happens... The check engine light comes on! The Check Engine light has the ability to immediately strike fear in the hearts of drivers everywhere, and leave you wondering how much the problem is going to cost to fix and if you will be able to afford it.

While it is true that sometimes the check engine light can signal a serious issue with your car, it can also signal much more simple issues with a cheap or free fix. These problems can be anything from a cylinder misfire to your gas cap not being on tight enough and everything in between.

So what can you do about it?

DON'T PANIC! If there doesn't appear to be any initial problems that are overly noticeable, see if there's a simple fix. Try checking for a loose gas cap, check all your fluid levels, and if that doesn't appear to fix it, maybe it's time to see someone about doing something a little more serious.

Get a free diagnostic! Often times car part shops such as Advanced Auto will do a free diagnostics check on your engine and can tell you what the issue is. It may be something you can take care of, or you might need to see a mechanic, but it's worth looking into.

If it is something that requires a mechanic we're here for you! With our body shop you can order parts online 24/7, view service specials, or schedule an appointment online!

For more info on what it means when your check engine light comes on, click here! 

To take a look at our service department online, click here!

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Volt Drivers... Saving The Planet

If you keep up in auto news at all [specifically Chevrolet] you've probably heard your fair share about the Chevy Volt, but there may be one major thing you haven't heard yet... How it's drivers are saving the world.

More specifically Volt drivers have already saved the planet 1 whole supertanker of gasoline! Don't find that very impressive, well, let's put some perspective on it.

One supertanker of fuel holds 2.1 MILLION gallons of fuel! That's enough to fill your 40mpg/10gallon tank economy car up 210,000 times making it able to drive 8.4 million miles... who doesn't want that?

Ultimately, the Volt is making a huge impact on drivers everywhere. It's the car that's literally changing the world...

For more info, and purchase info click here!

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When Should You Fill Up?

When do you wait to fill up your gas tank? Do you constantly keep it full, half empty, riding close to 'E'?

One blogger writes about what she thinks the advantages and disadvantages are of different fuel levels.

Kristy Welsh writes:


There has recently been a lot of talk on how you can get better gas mileage by driving when your tank is half full to empty or making sure you fill up when your tank is half full. Which is correct – or does either method hold any water?




The fill ‘er up when it’s half full foks proclaim that if you leave the gas tank empty, the gas will be evaporating in the empty space of the tank. Gas tanks are designed to force out all those gas fumes from the tank into the atmosphere and this gas is wasted. Yes, it’s true, but how much gas are you actually losing? To tackle this one, I woke up the engineering part of my brain (I used to be one) and looked at a paper published by the Environmental Protection Agency and their analysis of gasoline storage tanks and the evaporation rates.


At 60 degrees Fahrenheit, a gallon of vehicular gasoline weighs about 6.15 pounds. In the above paper on page 87 (if you want to chew through it), they go over what the gasoline vapor losses are for large storage tanks. For a 8400 gallon tank the total loss is 48 lbs (or about 8 gallons) a year.


Read more: http://www.creditinfocenter.com/wordpress/2008/07/24/increase-mileage-gas-tank-full-or-half-empty/

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More Than Just A Car

The all new Chevy Malibu Eco is more than just a car... it's a lifestyle.

It's a lifestyle that involves high end luxury, connectivity, and the ability to go...

Hybrid Cars writes:

Timing is everything. The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, equipped with a mild hybrid powertrain with an EPA rating of 25/37 city/highway and 29 mpg combined, began arriving at dealers a few weeks ago, just as gasoline began edging past $4 a gallon in several regions of the U.S.

The arrival of the new family sedan at the same time that gas hit the $4 benchmark was likely more luck than astute planning, however. The Detroit Free Press reports that General Motors pushed the production of the Malibu Eco ahead by nearly seven months in January 2010 – when the average pump price was $2.74 a gallon.

Read more: http://www.hybridcars.com/vehicle/chevrolet-malibu-eco.html

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Making the Malibu Safe

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco has been smashed, crushed, flipped and rolled all to provide drivers and their families with unparalleled safety.


These are the steps Chevrolet has taken:


Before
Protection is great, but prevention is better. The 2013 Malibu Eco was designed with that in mind, offering technologies that will help avoid collisions altogether including Stabilitrak® Electronic Stability Control System, which assists with directional control of the vehicle during difficult driving situations. Malibu Eco even offers an available Rear Vision Camera to help see certain stationary objects while traveling in Reverse at low speeds.

During
In the event of a collision, Malibu Eco is equipped to help protect you and your passengers. For the first time, Malibu offers up to 8 airbags including knee air bags for front seat passengers13. Structural integrity of the vehicle is important during collisions and Malibu Eco provides an extremely strong, stiff body and an ultra-high-strength steel safety cage, along with Rollover Protection.

After
Every Malibu Eco offers the security of the latest generation of OnStar with Automatic Crash Response12, standard for the first six months. Built-in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor who is immediately connected to you through your vehicle to see if you need help sent to your exact location — even if you can't respond.

To view a video of the Malibu Eco's crash testing in action, click here!

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Chrysler 300 / Jeep Grand Cherokee Win Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

The Jeep Grand Cherokee, along with the Chrysler 300, have been awarded the Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction Awards by AutoPacific. Both cars exhibit the best performance in their perspective categories, meaning you can expect  nothing but the best from you Chrysler.

Chrysler Group LLC announced today that the automotive research group AutoPacific has named Chrysler 300 as "Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction" for the "Large Car" category, and Jeep® Grand Cherokee, for the second year in a row, won the "Premium Mid-Size SUV" category. 
"We are honored to have the Chrysler 300 and Jeep Grand Cherokee receive awards for 'Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction' by AutoPacific," said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales and President and CEO – Dodge Brand. "Recognition from our buyers underscores our efforts towards improving quality and customer satisfaction at Chrysler." 


"The Chrysler 300 is the reincarnation of the image-heavy original. Now with more finesse but no less personality, the 300 owners are the most satisfied of any buying a large car today," said George Peterson, President, AutoPacific. "The Grand Cherokee wins the best in class Vehicle Satisfaction Award for the second year in a row. Grand Cherokee owners gain their satisfaction through the overall capability and quality of the vehicle's design." 

Click to Read More

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Chevrolet to debut rear-wheel-drive SS next year

Several weeks ago an accidental OnStar photo leak revealed that Chevrolet would be revealing a new SS car... Well, it's been confirmed that the rumors are true.

Click Here To See The OnStar Mistake

A source from AJC.com writes:

For the first time in nearly two decades, the Chevrolet brand will have a big, rear-wheel-drive sedan in its U.S. lineup.

General Motors Co. said Thursday that the 2014 Chevrolet SS will go on sale in limited numbers late next year. The V8-powered SS is a version of the Holden VF Commodore, a rear-wheel-drive sedan sold in Australia. It will be made in Australia.


The new SS will also be Chevrolet's NASCAR Sprint Cup contender, replacing the Impala. It will debut in its race configuration at the 2013 Daytona 500.


GM issued a photo of a camouflaged SS on a test track, but otherwise released few details.


The SS won't be Chevy's only rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The Chevrolet Camaro is also rear-wheel-drive, but it's a two-door coupe powered by a V6 engine. And the Corvette is a V8-powered rear-wheel-drive sports car, but it doesn't have the space of a four-door sedan.


Read More: http://www.ajc.com/sports/chevrolet-to-debut-rear-1439591.html

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What Kind Of Car Should You Buy?

Figuring out what car suits you best can be easy if you know what you're looking for, but what if you can't decide? Try asking yourself these questions:

1) How many people are you planning on driving regularly with you? Size matters, so you want to grab one that's big enough for everyone.

2) Where are you doing your driving? The country, the city, the desert, maybe coastal?

3) How far are you planning on going on a regular basis? A short trip only minutes away, do you drive multiple hours, or cross-country often?

4) What's your driving style? Do you want speed, or something a little more laid back and less aggressive?

5) Are children typically with you? If taking a family long distance, dvd players are always a good option and children tend to enjoy more room.

Answer these questions before making your decision to buy a car that's perfect for you! Then visit us at   http://www.facebook.com/DonElliottAuto  to find a make and model online!

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Go Topless!

May 19th marks the annual worldwide Go Topless Day event, and it's big news for Jeep lovers everywhere!

Below is a list of links to help you celebrate, and if you're interested in purchasing a new Jeep, come see us! Visit us on the web at www.gmdonelliott.com/ or give us a call at (877) 664-1229!

Here's all the pages with all the information you will need to have a wild of a good time on Go Topless Day 2012!


LINKS to More Go Topless Day Information

Currently Scheduled GTD12 Events.

Our Annual Flagship Event in Massachusetts.

How to HOST your OWN GTD12 Event/Activity.

Annual Go Topless Day Photo Contest Information.

Purchase GTD12 Apparel, Stickers, Tire Covers & more here.

Get a FREE GTD12 Bumper Sticker here.

GTD12 PRE-PARTY Photo/Video Contest Announced.

Visit our Go Topless Day Facebook page and become a fan.

View our Go Topless Day Photo Albums from prior years.

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New Chevrolet Car for 2014?

(Image from www.foxnews.com)

Fox News has released screenshots taken from an OnStar screen captured by Christopher Price. The screenshot reveals a 2014 model named the SS Performance, however, currently GM has no SS Performance in production. 

FoxNews writes:

Chevrolet is working on a secret new car and has yet to reveal anything about it, other than the fact that it will be the basis for next year’s NASCAR entry.

No word if it’s a coupe or sedan, rear or all-wheel-drive, what kind of engine it has or even what its name is.

Actually, you might be able to scratch that last one off the list.

Tech blogger and Pontiac G6 owner Christopher Price was checking his OnStar account yesterday and pulled up a list of GM cars that offer a feature called RemoteLink. Browsing through the site he came across a listing under the 2014 model year for a car called SS Performance.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2012/04/25/onstar-slip-up-reveals-name-secret-chevrolet-performance-car/#ixzz1tAZZebml

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HD Radio™ Technology To Be Standard On GMC Acadia & Buick Enclave

The Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia are set to be the first to offer an OEM HD Radio experience for AM/FM Radio stations!

HD Radio Technology is available nationwide and has over 2,100 digital stations on-air and over 1,350 HD2/HD3 digital only channels that broadcast fresh new content. This content can ONLY be received and heard with an HD Radio receiver.

PRNewswire writes:


COLUMBIA, Md., April 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of digital HD Radio Technology for AM and FM audio and data broadcasting, announced that Chevrolet, GMC and Buick will be the first American automotive brands to offer the HD Radio "Artist Experience" feature standard on the new Traverse, Acadia and Enclave crossover utility vehicles.


HD Radio Technology is the digital evolution of AM and FM radio and delivers significant benefits for Chevrolet, GMC and Buick drivers: crystal-clear sound quality; additional local FM channels known as HD2/HD3 Channels; PSD - Program Service Data, which displays song title and artist name on the radio screen; the popular iTunes® Tagging feature which allows listeners to tag their favorite songs for later preview and purchase on iTunes.  In addition, the Traverse, Acadia and Enclave also includes the new Artist Experience feature that enables images related to the broadcast to be displayed on the radio screen, such as album cover art and station logos.  HD Radio Technology is subscription free broadcast radio.


To read more on the new HD Radio features, click here!

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Impala Seeing Upgrades in 2014!

Chevrolet has been all about innovation and change lately, and they're showing no signs of slowing down. The "rental-car favorite" Chevy Impala is scheduled for an upgrade for its 2014 model. 

The Impala has always been a favorite for many car shoppers for years, and in the past has always had a great deal going for it under the hood, but some car buyers have said they'd like a fresh new exterior, and they're going to get it.

The new model is sure to feature a grand list of improvements over previous generations of the car such as a 4-cylinder AND 6-cylinder option as well as 32+MPG with its new e-Assist option! 

"Like" our Facebook page and stay tuned as we talk more about this car until its expected release date early next year.

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Don Elliott Auto World Is Now Using Timeline!

Introducing the new Don Elliott Auto World Timeline Facebook Page! 

The introduction of Timeline opens the door for us to do very exciting things on our page for customers. It allows us to easily display new photos, track important events, and introduce sales and specials in a fun and interactive way!

Timeline will officially start pushing its way to all profiles on March 30th, if you're still new to timeline and would like to learn more, check out this link: http://www.facebook.com/about/timeline

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Buick Lures Buyers with 24 Month Lease

Tired of lease offers that seem to extend forever, and potentially looking for something more short term? Buick is here to help! Buick plans to offer customers a 24-month lease, and they're including all the bells and whistles as well.

USAToday writes:

Buick, easily General Motors' most aggressive brand when it comes to trying to get customers to give it a fresh look, has a new gambit.

To try to land more people in its freshened lineup, Buick is going to offer a 24-month lease with routine maintenance, an OnStar Directions and Connections plan and Sirius XM radio all thrown into the monthly payment.

By shortening the lease term by a year or two less than what is typical, Buick presents a more powerful inducement for customers to give the brand a fresh look.

To read more on the 24-month lease, click here!
Interested in leasing? Click here!

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Facebook for Ford Sync

If you're a Facebook fanatic we have some wonderful news for you! Ford is working on integrating Facebook with Ford Sync, offering you a voice-enabled Facebook experience from within your car.

Facebook on Sync will allow you to just view the newest status updates, use it to navigate to a friends house or even use apps like Pandora radio.

Cnet reports: "We know that taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road is where you can get into a bad situation," Marchwicki said. "Voice in a vehicle is the natural and safe way to be able to interact with it. And having conversations with your vehicle is not too far off."

Read more: http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-57387791-48/ford-adding-facebook-features-to-sync/#ixzz1nyctYdHH

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Buick Verano is a compact with big-car hush

What if you could have a car that was a compact sedan that carried the sound and luxury of a full-size sedan? That's exactly what Buick has done with the Verano. Designed to deliver optimal MPG, adequate space, a smooth ride, and plenty of horsepower just like a full-sized sedan, packed into a compact.

USAToday writes:

Can a small Buick feel and sound like a big one? And if it did, would you want to buy one?

Drive On came away impressed on all counts earlier this month with the new Buick Verano, a compact sedan that is able to retain the brand's reputation for comfort and whisper quietness in the cabin.

At the same time, Verano manages to avoid the things buyers never liked about Buicks -- a squishy ride more akin to a hovercraft and ill-fitting interiors. Testing the car over hundreds of miles, Verano handled confidently and didn't leave us guessing whether pavement was passing beneath us.

To read more, click here!

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