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EVs and Hybrids. The Pros and Pros list.

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So you want to do your part to have cleaner air. Or maybe you just wanna save on fuel costs. You're looking to compare electric vehicles and hybrids. It's tough to compare when there's only upside to both. To help make your buying experience a little more informed, we have jotted down all the benefits of these two electrified powertrains.

The pros of buying an electric vehicle

Save money on fuel
Yes, you really do save money by purchasing an electric vehicle. The average home in the United States spends about 1/5 of its yearly income on transportation.* Each year the average fuel savings a family can expect to receive from their electric vehicle is around $1,000.** The cost to fully charge a 60-kilowatt-hour (kWh) EV with more than 230 miles of range at home is less than $8. Plus, energy prices don't fluctuate as much as oil does, so budgeting for your electric vehicle can be more consistent.

Zero Tailpipe Emissions
In full-electric mode, an electric car produces zero tailpipe emissions, dramatically lowering smog and greenhouse gas emissions. Cleaner cars mean cleaner air and better health. California and the world are already seeing the impacts of greenhouse gases and climate change, so contributing to a cleaner future is another pro of electric vehicles!

Lower Maintenance Costs
Electric motors have fewer moving parts and never require oil changes, new spark plugs, or fuel filters. Regenerative braking also extends the life span of brake pads by using the electric motor to slow down the vehicle. These things all translate to drastically lowering overall maintenance costs. It's not just fuel savings, folks!

Tax Credits and Incentives
Whether you buy or lease, when it comes to an electric car you could get money back. There are federal, state and local incentives to bring down the cost of that electric car of your dreams.

The pros of buying a hybrid car

Save money on fuel
Because your car is part EV and part gas-powered you are going to see significant savings at the pump. Hybrids have highly efficient engines that can switch to electric power for fuel instead of always relying on gas. This means far fewer trips to the pump.

You may help save the environment
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average passenger vehicle emits 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually,*** plus other pollutants like methane and nitrous oxide – all greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. By choosing to drive a hybrid, you are contributing less greenhouse gases than a normal gas-burning vehicle.

No “range anxiety”
With a hybrid, especially a plug-in hybrid, you have the distinct benefit of being able to run your car on electric power or gas. That means that if you are low on fuel, the battery can get you to the pump. And if you're low on battery, the gas power can get you home.

Whether you’re behind the wheel of an EV or a hybrid, you’ll be driving our planet into a cleaner future. So if you're not ready to go totally electric just yet, choose a hybrid…but if you really want zero tailpipe emissions, give the EV a shot. The good news is we have both types of vehicles at The Folsom Auto Mall. Visit us today and choose a Buick, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai, KIA, Nissan or Ford. Test drive an EV and a hybrid. Ask us any questions you might have. We're happy to help!

* https://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-6/how-do-united-states-consumer-expenditures-compare-with-the-united-kingdom-and-japan.htm
** Average fuel savings of $1,000 is based on the averages of annual consumer mileage in the U.S., vehicle miles per gallon, cost of gasoline, EV efficiency and Duke Energy residential rates
*** https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/greenhouse-gas-emissions-typical-passenger-vehicle
 

How to turn in your vehicle lease early

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Maybe you're tired of making monthly payments. Maybe you're excited about buying a new car. Maybe your financial situation has changed or you're driving 2-seat sports car and your wife just gave birth to twins. No matter what the reason is, we are here to help you walk through the options for early lease termination.

When you get to the end of your lease there are usually 3 options: Buy your current leased car, turn in your lease, or turn (trade) in your vehicle and lease or buy a new one. From a financial and logistical standpoint, completing your lease contract is usually preferred. When a new car lease is signed there is a contract between you and the dealership. You're agreeing to make all the payments required and that you are going to keep up all the required maintenance for the vehicle. If, after a little while, you decide that you want out of the car or that you don't want to or can't keep making payments on the vehicle, you can't just go to the dealership and try to give it back. Your options include:
•    Early lease termination
•    Lease transfer
•    Lease buyout
•    Trade in your lease

Early lease termination
With most leases, there is an early termination option. Some companies actually allow you to turn in your lease without a penalty. But, there is a good chance you'll be responsible for any payments still left. When looking at all your options this really should be your last resort because it is probably the most expensive.

Lease transfer
If those early termination fees prove to be too high, then you might want to try and transfer your lease. When it comes to a lease transfer, the law and requirements vary from state to state. There is also the chance that the leasing company will charge a lease transfer fee but this fee is usually much lower than the fees associated with early termination. You can transfer your lease to just about anyone – a family member, friend, coworker, or even a private buyer. Whoever decides to buy out your lease will be subject to a credit check just like you were, so good credit is important. Once the lease transfer is complete, the new lessee will start making the payments.

Lease buyout
If the value of your vehicle is high, you might want to consider this option. To do this you need to pay all remaining payments and an early termination fee in cash. Many people choose to buy out their leases at the end of their term. They then sell it to recoup any costs. To make this work, you'll need to figure out if the value of your vehicle makes it worthwhile. Then it's up to you to sell it. This option could potentially net you a bit of profit.

Trade in your lease
The dealership may let you trade in your lease for a new lease (or even a purchase). When this happens, they can roll your remaining monthly payments and transfer fees into the loan or lease on the new car. This might sound great, but it could mean that your monthly payments will be higher.

If you're well below your contractual mileage and your leased vehicle is in great shape, you might actually have a bit of equity in your lease. If this is the case, the dealership might be able to offer you money toward your next vehicle lease or purchase. It's definitely worth checking out!

Listen, when it comes to terminating your lease early it might cost you some money – but sometimes you could even make a profit. If you're ready to trade in and trade up, visit the Folsom Auto Mall to find out what your options are!

Summer road trip maintenance checklist

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Posted in Car Care, Maintenance, Parts, Safety, Service, tips
 
The sun is up, the sky is blue, and the open road lies straight ahead of you. As you and the three kids head down the highway you notice a car with steam coming out of the hood. You see a man walking with a gas can and one car jumping another. I guess they didn’t read Folsom Auto Mall’s summer road trip maintenance checklist. It’s a comprehensive guide to ensure that your summer road trip is free from those annoying dashboard warning lights. So pay attention, take notes, or hit file print and follow this summer road trip maintenance checklist.

 

Replace wiper blades
Rubber wiper blades go bad over time. That’s just life. So if you see streaks or water that isn’t getting pushed away, replace the blades. You don’t want to be in the middle of a summer storm trying to clear the windshield with last decade’s wipers.

Top off the windshield wiper fluid
It’s the light that so many of us fail to turn off until it’s too late. Fill the windshield washer reservoir before your trip. It helps remove insects and other debris so you can see clearly. It’s like Visine for your car.

Test and tighten the battery
Over time a battery can come loose and lose some juice. Take the time to tighten the connectors and get your battery tested. This should keep you fully charged so you can charge ahead with your trip.

Restock the emergency kit
Flashlight. Batteries. First-aid kit. Drinking water. Non-perishable snacks. Jumper cables. Emergency flares. Basic tool kit. Duct tape. Extra cellphone battery. Always be prepared.

Charge the AC
Take your car down to any of The Folsom Auto Mall’s dealerships and have the A/C tested and charged. We’ll also check the cabin air filter. The first step towards a cool and comfortable trip is a cool and comfortable car.

Check belts and hoses
Rubber drive belts power a lot of important things like the engine water pump and accessories such as the alternator and air conditioning compressor. You have to make sure you replace any that are cracked, or going bad. In many vehicles, you have to replace drive belts every 60,000 miles. Inspect and replace worn, brittle, or excessively soft hoses. Check for leaks around hose clamps and at the radiator and water pump.

Top off engine oil and other fluids
Check that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid are all at the correct levels for safe operation. When you add fluids, it’s important to use products that meet the specifications recommended by the owner’s manual.

Check tires and tire pressure
In addition to checking the air pressure in each tire, take a good look and inspect them for damage. Finding a nail or a screw in your tire now is way better than finding one ”down the road.” Put a penny upside down into the grooves to check the tire tread. If you see the top of Lincoln’s head, it might be time to buy some new tires. And always make sure you inflate the tires to the suggested PSI found in the owner’s manual.

Check the brakes
Let’s not take chances here and just bring your vehicle in for a brake inspection. If you want to do a little pre-investigating on your own, listen for grinding sounds or vibrations when applying the brakes. If you hear any of that, come see us right away. We’ll check the brake system for fluid leaks; we’ll also check for wear or damage to the brake pads, brake rotors, brake shoes and brake drums.

Remember our service team is here to help with any maintenance issue you need fixed before you embark on your big summer road trip. So go ahead, see the Grand Canyon, go visit your Great Aunt Betty or the nation’s biggest ball of yarn. Just make sure you follow our summer road trip maintenance checklist, and you’ll have a great time.

Oh, if you’re thinking maybe this trip would deserve a new or used car, The Folsom Auto Mall has plenty of Buicks, GMCs, Dodges, Chryslers, Jeeps, Rams, Chevys, Toyotas, Hyundais, Kias, Nissans and Fords to choose from.

Summer road trip maintenance checklist

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Posted in Uncategorized
The sun is up, the sky is blue, and the open road lies straight ahead of you. As you and the three kids head down the highway you notice a car with steam coming out of the hood. You see a man walking with a gas can and one car jumping another. I guess they didn't read Folsom Auto Mall's summer road trip maintenance checklist. It's a comprehensive guide to ensure that your summer road trip is free from those annoying dashboard warning lights. So pay attention, take notes, or hit file print and follow this summer road trip maintenance checklist.

Replace wiper blades
Rubber wiper blades go bad over time. That’s just life. So if you see streaks or water that isn’t getting pushed away, replace the blades. You don't want to be in the middle of a summer storm trying to clear the windshield with last decade's wipers.

Top off the windshield wiper fluid
It’s the light that so many of us fail to turn off until it’s too late. Fill the windshield washer reservoir before your trip. It helps remove insects and other debris so you can see clearly. It's like Visine for your car.

Test and tighten the battery
Over time a battery can come loose and lose some juice. Take the time to tighten the connectors and get your battery tested. This should keep you fully charged so you can charge ahead with your trip.

Restock the emergency kit
Flashlight. Batteries. First-aid kit. Drinking water. Non-perishable snacks. Jumper cables. Emergency flares. Basic tool kit. Duct tape. Extra cellphone battery. Always be prepared.

Charge the AC
Take your car down to any of The Folsom Auto Mall’s dealerships and have the A/C tested and charged. We’ll also check the cabin air filter. The first step towards a cool and comfortable trip is a cool and comfortable car.

Check belts and hoses
Rubber drive belts power a lot of important things like the engine water pump and accessories such as the alternator and air conditioning compressor. You have to make sure you replace any that are cracked, or going bad. In many vehicles, you have to replace drive belts every 60,000 miles. Inspect and replace worn, brittle, or excessively soft hoses. Check for leaks around hose clamps and at the radiator and water pump.

Top off engine oil and other fluids
Check that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid are all at the correct levels for safe operation. When you add fluids, it’s important to use products that meet the specifications recommended by the owner’s manual.

Check tires and tire pressure
In addition to checking the air pressure in each tire, take a good look and inspect them for damage. Finding a nail or a screw in your tire now is way better than finding one ”down the road.” Put a penny upside down into the grooves to check the tire tread. If you see the top of Lincoln's head, it might be time to buy some new tires. And always make sure you inflate the tires to the suggested PSI found in the owner's manual.

Check the brakes
Let's not take chances here and just bring your vehicle in for a brake inspection. If you want to do a little pre-investigating on your own, listen for grinding sounds or vibrations when applying the brakes. If you hear any of that, come see us right away. We'll check the brake system for fluid leaks; we'll also check for wear or damage to the brake pads, brake rotors, brake shoes and brake drums.

Remember our service team is here to help with any maintenance issue you need fixed before you embark on your big summer road trip. So go ahead, see the Grand Canyon, go visit your Great Aunt Betty or the nation’s biggest ball of yarn. Just make sure you follow our summer road trip maintenance checklist, and you’ll have a great time.

Oh, if you're thinking maybe this trip would deserve a new or used car, The Folsom Auto Mall has plenty of Buicks, GMCs, Dodges, Chryslers, Jeeps, Rams, Chevys, Toyotas, Hyundais, Kias, Nissans and Fords to choose from.

Wonder where KBB Values come from?

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Posted in Uncategorized

Ever wonder how Kelley Blue Book gets used car values and why we even trust those values to be the standard of the industry? The Folsom Auto Mall has those answers for you.

Les Kelley, the man behind the pricing guide, was a used car dealer in Los Angeles in 1918. In the 1920’s, Kelley began printing and circulating a list of vehicles he wanted to buy and how much he was willing to pay for them. He would send these lists to other dealers and banks; people began to use these lists as real-time appraisals for an older car’s value. In 1926, he officially published his list in book form.

Soon, there were lines of cars at his dealership waiting for appraisals and the dealership expanded to become the largest used car dealership in the country. Eventually the Blue Book became a nationwide car value guide for dealerships. In the 1960s, the Kelleys shifted their focus to the Blue Book and sold off their dealerships. During this time, the Kelleys began to use mileage to help determine the car’s value and they added new car pricing to their list of publications.

In the 1980s and 90s, they began to use computers to track vehicle pricing and created an online presence for Kelley Blue Book. This is also when the first Consumer Edition of the Blue Book was published. KBB.com was launched in 1995 and included values, reviews, vehicle history reports and links to manufacturer websites. According to kbb.com, within two years of its launch, it became the most visited automotive site on the Internet.

Vehicle values according to KBB (and other sources) are determined by aggregating the pricing from wholesale auctions, dealerships, rental fleets, auto manufacturers and private party transactions. Real world prices are evaluated every day and, using an algorithm, along with historical trends, the current economy, time of year and geographic areas, values are determined. Those values vary based on a number of factors including mileage, equipment and condition – and values change often. For example, when gas prices are high, the value of vehicles with good fuel efficiency will fetch higher prices. Fleet vehicles and rental cars might get lower prices because the market has so many of them. Vehicles with a history of mechanical problems or recalls would also be valued for less.

Prices also vary depending on the transaction. Private sale, dealer sale and trade value can all be different values for the same vehicle. It's important to do your research so you have an approximation of what your vehicle should be worth. At the end of the day – a vehicle is worth whatever someone is willing to pay for it. Maybe it’s their dream vehicle; maybe it has sentimental value; maybe a dealership is in need of your model. If a vehicle is rare or even extremely popular, its value can increase. The theory of supply and demand is still alive and well.

In addition to Kelley Blue Book (and kbb.com), several other resources are worth consulting to determine a vehicle’s value. NADA Guides, Edmunds.com, JD Power and Consumer Reports are also trusted sources for this kind of research.

You can also visit the Folsom Auto Mall for a fast, free, fair appraisal from our experts at our eight dealership locations. The Folsom Auto Mall is always looking for vehicles and will pay top dollar!

Aftermarket accessories that could increase your vehicle’s value…

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Posted in Social
 

Adding aftermarket accessories can be a fun thing to do. Who doesn’t want to spice things up and customize their vehicle? But adding extra flare and performance with aftermarket accessories can do a lot more than just turn heads. Certain aftermarket upgrades can actually help increase the value of your vehicle. So, whether you have a new car you’re looking to add your personal touch to or a used car you’re hoping to make a little more appealing at trade-in time – here are some aftermarket accessories that could increase your car’s value.

1. Tires
Upgrading your tires can boost your vehicle’s market value. The quality of the tire is directly linked to the comfort and performance of the vehicle. It’s kind of like comparing a luxury mattress to a standard mattress; you will definitely be able to feel the difference. And if you are upgrading your tires for the purposes of trading in or selling your car, the right buyer and every dealership will recognize top-of-the-line tires and pay for them. Not only that, but any new tires (even if they’re not top of the line) will make a great impression! Dealerships and individual buyers definitely appreciate the value of fresh tread.

2. Rims
Updating the rims of your vehicle can make a big improvement on the aesthetic value and curb appeal (pun intended). Quality rims will enhance the look of your vehicle and can make your wheels look brand new. They can freshen up and give a whole new look to a tired old vehicle. Aside from just the aesthetic value, new rims also help to protect the wheels from external damage.

3. Body Kits
A body kit can make your car look newer and set your car apart from every other car out there on the road. Some body kits can also improve the performance of your vehicle, changing the way air flows around the car. The aerodynamics of your vehicle can make your vehicle go faster, reducing drag and helping the car achieve higher speed. Carbon fiber body kits are made from lighter materials, increasing the downforce on your car which can improve the vehicle’s handling and make it more stable in corners. Body kits like these could increase your vehicle’s grip on the road, resulting in safer driving. There are many body kits available depending on your model of car, exactly what you want it to look like and how you want it to perform. Be sure to have it installed correctly, by trained professionals, otherwise you could actually reduce your vehicle’s value.

4. Infotainment and GPS
Bluetooth, USB ports, USB-C ports, large touch screens and GPS navigation are features that modern car owners have come to expect as a standard in their vehicles. Aftermarket infotainment accessories can upgrade older vehicles essentially making a 2010 feel more like a 2020. These types of investments typically improve a vehicle’s resale value and make your vehicle easier to sell.

5. Leather seats
Most people think that your car either comes with leather seats or it doesn’t. Well, that’s just not true. Any car can go from fabric to leather. Making your car seem more luxurious can be an incentive to a potential buyer; one strategy is to install leather seats.  If they’re clean and well cared for, your vehicle could potentially be worth more.

So whether you’re making your car look as cool as possible by adding a little something extra, looking to add value to your current car or both – the Folsom Auto Mall has you covered. Whether you drive a Buick, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, RAM, Chevy, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan or Ford – we’ve got the accessories you need in stock. And if there is something specific that we don’t have, we’ll get it for you. Our factory trained and experienced technicians can service any make or model. Let us help you outfit your vehicle or give you a free appraisal so you know how much it’s worth!

Aftermarket accessories that could increase your vehicle’s value…

0 By
Posted in Uncategorized

Adding aftermarket accessories can be a fun thing to do. Who doesn’t want to spice things up and customize their vehicle? But adding extra flare and performance with aftermarket accessories can do a lot more than just turn heads. Certain aftermarket upgrades can actually help increase the value of your vehicle. So, whether you have a new car you’re looking to add your personal touch to or a used car you're hoping to make a little more appealing at trade-in time – here are some aftermarket accessories that could increase your car’s value.

1. Tires
Upgrading your tires can boost your vehicle’s market value. The quality of the tire is directly linked to the comfort and performance of the vehicle. It’s kind of like comparing a luxury mattress to a standard mattress; you will definitely be able to feel the difference. And if you are upgrading your tires for the purposes of trading in or selling your car, the right buyer and every dealership will recognize top-of-the-line tires and pay for them. Not only that, but any new tires (even if they’re not top of the line) will make a great impression! Dealerships and individual buyers definitely appreciate the value of fresh tread.

2. Rims
Updating the rims of your vehicle can make a big improvement on the aesthetic value and curb appeal (pun intended). Quality rims will enhance the look of your vehicle and can make your wheels look brand new. They can freshen up and give a whole new look to a tired old vehicle. Aside from just the aesthetic value, new rims also help to protect the wheels from external damage.

3. Body Kits
A body kit can make your car look newer and set your car apart from every other car out there on the road. Some body kits can also improve the performance of your vehicle, changing the way air flows around the car. The aerodynamics of your vehicle can make your vehicle go faster, reducing drag and helping the car achieve higher speed. Carbon fiber body kits are made from lighter materials, increasing the downforce on your car which can improve the vehicle’s handling and make it more stable in corners. Body kits like these could increase your vehicle’s grip on the road, resulting in safer driving. There are many body kits available depending on your model of car, exactly what you want it to look like and how you want it to perform. Be sure to have it installed correctly, by trained professionals, otherwise you could actually reduce your vehicle’s value.

4. Infotainment and GPS
Bluetooth, USB ports, USB-C ports, large touch screens and GPS navigation are features that modern car owners have come to expect as a standard in their vehicles. Aftermarket infotainment accessories can upgrade older vehicles essentially making a 2010 feel more like a 2020. These types of investments typically improve a vehicle’s resale value and make your vehicle easier to sell.

5. Leather seats
Most people think that your car either comes with leather seats or it doesn’t. Well, that’s just not true. Any car can go from fabric to leather. Making your car seem more luxurious can be an incentive to a potential buyer; one strategy is to install leather seats.  If they’re clean and well cared for, your vehicle could potentially be worth more.

So whether you’re making your car look as cool as possible by adding a little something extra, looking to add value to your current car or both – the Folsom Auto Mall has you covered. Whether you drive a Buick, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, RAM, Chevy, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan or Ford – we’ve got the accessories you need in stock. And if there is something specific that we don’t have, we’ll get it for you. Our factory trained and experienced technicians can service any make or model. Let us help you outfit your vehicle or give you a free appraisal so you know how much it’s worth!

How to Get the Most Value When You Sell Your Vehicle…

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Posted in Car Care, Maintenance, tips
 
When it comes time to sell or trade in your vehicle, there are only positives. You get cash or a new car and someone else gets to make new memories in yours. When you trade in your car it can act as the down payment for your new ride. Whether you’re trading or simply selling, you want to get the most value for your previously used car, truck, van or SUV! Here are some tips to make sure you get the most for your vehicle:
 
1. Find out what your car is worth
The first step in negotiating the sale of your vehicle is to have a good idea of what your car’s value really is. There are a few sites available to help you get a realistic idea of what your vehicle is worth, but the two most often used are Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com) and Edmunds.com. Comparing values on multiple sites will give you a great starting point.
 
2. Fix any issues
All cars have little dings and mechanical issues that could use a little TLC; you’re going to see more value for your vehicle if you address them before selling it. It’s also a good idea to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration database to see if there are any recalls affecting your car. Recalled parts can be fixed free of charge, and the extra effort may up your vehicle’s value. Even repairing small cosmetic dings can make your vehicle worth more.
 
Kind of an old-school trick, but a good one, is to keep receipts for repairs, oil changes and maintenance. These can prove to the dealer or buyer that you took really good care of your vehicle. 
 
3. Shine it up good (inside and out)
Get your car detailed. The nicer it looks, the more money it will appraise for. Think of detailing your car like staging a home before you sell it. Curb appeal applies to cars too. And don’t forget to remove all your personal items from the interior and the trunk. You want the potential buyer to take one look at your vehicle and see that it’s ready to go – no additional investment needed.
 
4. Find the spare key (and any other accessories)
We know it may sound small, but every penny counts and many buyers are willing to pay a little extra if you have the extra set of keys and all the owner’s manuals. So you might have to search around in that junk drawer, but finding that extra set of keys could pay off. Do you have Weather Tech floor mats?Headrests? A cargo net? First aid kit? Any other accessories you have will help raise the value of your vehicle. Every little bit counts.
 
5. Make an appointment
It sounds silly, but if you’re interested in getting an estimate at a dealership, making an appointment to have your vehicle appraised could net you some extra cash. By giving the dealership plenty of time to value your trade you are giving them time to find you more cash.
 
So if you’re ready to sell your previously loved vehicle, consider a free vehicle appraisal at the Folsom Auto Mall. Get your car appraised for free and browse our new or pre-owned vehicles including: Ford, Toyota, Kia, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Buick, GMC, Hyundai, Chevrolet and Nissan.