The Folsom Auto Mall is here to help when it comes to quick and easy tips on how to conserve gas when you’re running low on fuel. Check out these suggestions and swing by the Folsom Auto Mall to make sure your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible!
Read the rest of this entryCategory Archives: Maintenance
What To Do If Your Car Overheats This Summer
Summer’s here! Temperatures are rising and so does the potential of your vehicle overheating. Typically, an engine overheats because something is wrong with the cooling system. Maybe you have a leak, a faulty radiator fan, clogged coolant hose or a broken water pump. In the summer, your engine bay can get up to 200? F (Fahrenheit). The Folsom Auto Mall has put together some easy tips in the event your car overheats during your commute.
Read the rest of this entryTips for Driving in the Rain
Rainy season has arrived in Northern California. The Folsom Auto Mall thought it might be a good idea to share information on how to safely drive in the rain. We’ve collected tried and true tips to help you out when you’re on the road in wet conditions.
Read the rest of this entryPreparing your vehicle for a summer road trip!
Summer is almost here and it’s time to start planning your summer vacation! If you’re considering a road trip, you should seriously consider prepping your vehicle before you head out. The Folsom Auto Mall put together some tips and tricks to help prep your vehicle before the summer arrives.
Read the rest of this entryBenefits of Electric Vehicles
You probably know the most obvious benefits of driving an electric vehicle, but Folsom Auto Mall put together a short list of even more reasons to consider an EV. Read on to find out why electric vehicles might be a good option for you.
Read the rest of this entryThe Benefits of an Extended Warranty
It’s become somewhat of a joke – a meme – that letter or phone call asking you about your extended warranty. But when it comes to your vehicle, did you ever wonder if maybe you should get one?
The Folsom Auto Mall breaks down the benefits of an extended warranty so you can make an educated decision.
What is scheduled maintenance?
If you didn’t know or aren’t sure – scheduled maintenance is the regular maintenance recommended by the manufacturer to keep your vehicle in its best condition. Many manufacturers require owners (and lessees) to perform this maintenance in order to keep the warranty valid. Maintenance schedules vary by brand and model, but most recommended services for gas-powered vehicles are similar.
Read the rest of this entryAdvantages of purchasing from your local franchised car dealership
Why buy your next car from a local, manufacturer-franchised dealership instead of wandering a dirt lot, dealing with a giant corporate machine, or clicking “Add to Cart” on a faceless website? Simple: people, protection, and peace of mind.
Real people, real accountability.
At a hometown franchise store, the folks you meet on day one are probably the same ones you’ll see in six months when you pop in for an oil change. They live where you live. If something isn’t right, you know exactly where to go—and they know they’ll see you at the grocery store. That kind of built-in accountability is hard to replicate behind a chatbot or a “buy here, pay here” lot that might close up shop tomorrow.
Factory backing and trained techs.
Franchised dealers are tied directly to the manufacturer. That means factory-trained technicians, genuine OEM parts, and the most current software updates and recall info. If you’re buying new, your warranty work gets handled right there. If you’re buying used, you can still benefit from certified inspections and extended coverage options that mystery lots can’t touch.
Certified pre-owned isn’t just a sticker.
“Certified” at a manufacturer’s dealership actually means something: multipoint inspections, reconditioning to factory standards, and often better interest rates. The car on the ‘buy-here-pay-here’ lot might be clean, but do you know if the airbag was ever replaced? If the title is branded? If that check-engine light was “solved” with electrical tape? At a franchised dealership, those corners can’t be cut—the manufacturer won’t allow it.
Fast, fair financing.
Sure, you can get a loan online. But a local dealer can shop multiple banks and captive lenders for you, explain the fine print in plain terms, and structure payments to suit your lifestyle. They’ll also handle the annoying DMV paperwork, temp tags, taxes, and title work.
Service after the sale—because cars need love too.
Buying the car is just the start. You’ll need maintenance, maybe a recall fix or help syncing your phone when you upgrade. A franchised store has a service lounge, loaner cars, Saturday hours, and a phone number that gets answered by a human. That relationship can save you time and headaches for as long as you own the vehicle. You can’t service at an online retailer and smaller dealerships might not even have a service bay.
You CAN touch this!
You can sit in the car, drive it, pop the hood, see the service records (on pre-owned models), meet the service manager, and ask questions in person. “Test driving” a car online is definitely not the same and you can’t always trust that the car in the picture is the car you’re going to receive. What if it smells weird? How would you know? Visiting your local dealer allows you to shop in-person; get the whole experience – and be treated right.
Bottom line: Buying from a local, manufacturer-franchised dealership, like the ones at the Folsom Auto Mall, gives you backup, benefits, and a relationship that can last well past your first vehicle purchase. It’s your car—but now you’ve got a whole team in your corner! A local dealer invests in the community, gives you top dollar for your trade, helps get you approved for your loan and remembers your family. Choose Folsom and come take a test drive at the Folsom Auto Mall to see for yourself.
Road-Trip Tech Tune-Up
Summer’s here and the open road is calling. If you’re planning a road trip, take a few minutes to get your vehicle’s tech ready before you hit the highway. Here are some simple tips from the team at Folsom Auto Mall.
1. Update Your Car’s Software
Before you leave, park near a strong Wi-Fi connection and check for software updates. Modern cars rely heavily on computer systems, and these updates can improve everything from cruise control to navigation. It’s worth the wait to make sure all your safety features are working their best.
2. Download Your Maps
Don’t rely on cell service for navigation; you never know when you’re gonna hit a dead zone. Download your entire route in your map app before you go. This saves your directions, traffic info and, if you’re driving electric, charging station locations.
3. Bring Backup Power
Pack a portable jump starter – the newer ones are small and most can charge your phone too. Throw in some extra charging cables and a battery pack for the passengers. Trust me, keeping everyone’s devices charged will make for a much more peaceful trip.
4. Download Entertainment
Cell service gets spotty on long drives, so download your music, podcasts, and audiobooks ahead of time. Nothing kills the road trip vibe like silence when your streaming cuts out in the desert.
5. Test Your Tech
Before you leave, make sure everything works. Check your dash cam, tire pressure sensors, and any driver assistance features. It’s better to figure out problems in your driveway than on the side of the highway.
Bonus Pit Stop: Free Multi-Point Inspection
When your tech is dialed in, swing through one of the Folsom Auto Mall’s service lanes for a free multi-point inspection. Our certified technicians can quickly check your fluids, belts, brakes, and battery health faster than you can say “road-trip snacks.”
Hit the Highway with Confidence
Now roll down the windows, cue up that freshly cached playlist, and feel the summer air rush in. With code patches perfected, maps downloaded, batteries topped, and every gadget humming, you’re free to chase sunsets, detour for world-famous pie, or pull over for an impromptu trail selfie—no tech panic required. From all of us at Folsom Auto Mall, happy travels and smooth cruising. We’ll be here when you get back with new stories to tell.
Why You Should Service Your Vehicle at a Franchised New Car Dealership
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, many car owners are faced with a variety of service options. From local independent shops to national chains, the choices can be overwhelming. However, one of the best choices for long-term vehicle care is to service your vehicle at a franchised new car dealership. Here are several compelling reasons why this should be your go-to option for maintenance and repair.
1. Expertise in Your Vehicle’s Brand
Franchised dealerships employ technicians who are specifically trained to work on your vehicle’s make and model. These experts have in-depth knowledge of the latest technology and systems specific to your car, which independent shops may not possess. Whether it’s advanced diagnostics, software updates, or specific repair procedures, the dealership staff are equipped with the knowledge and training to get the job done right. They undergo continuous training on the latest updates, recalls, and best practices, ensuring your car gets the highest quality service.
2. Access to Genuine OEM Parts
One of the most important aspects of vehicle maintenance is using the right parts. Dealerships use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are made to the exact specifications of your vehicle. OEM parts are designed for optimal performance and longevity, ensuring that your car runs as efficiently as possible. While independent shops may offer aftermarket parts, they might not always match the quality or durability of OEM parts, potentially leading to more frequent repairs down the line.
3. Warranty Protection
For many car owners, warranty coverage is a key consideration when it comes to vehicle maintenance. Most new cars come with a manufacturer warranty, which could be jeopardized if the vehicle is serviced at a non-authorized location. Servicing your vehicle at a franchised dealership ensures that you maintain your warranty protection. Dealerships adhere to manufacturer-specific guidelines, and their work is guaranteed, giving you peace of mind knowing that your warranty remains intact.
4. State-of-the-Art Equipment
Franchised new car dealerships are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment that are specifically designed for your vehicle. These tools can quickly identify issues, often before they become major problems. Independent shops may not have access to the latest technology or manufacturer-specific diagnostic tools, which can lead to misdiagnoses or longer repair times.
5. Comprehensive Service Records
When you bring your vehicle to a franchised dealership for service, all the work performed is documented in the dealership’s system. This creates a detailed service history that can be useful when selling your car or when you need to refer to past work. Having a comprehensive record of services performed by the dealership helps establish the value of your car, ensuring potential buyers or future dealerships can easily access your car’s maintenance history.
6. Manufacturer-Specific Recalls and Updates
If there are any recalls or service bulletins related to your vehicle, franchised new car dealerships are the first to know and can perform the necessary repairs or updates as part of your service. Dealerships are directly tied to the manufacturer, which means they are alerted about recalls faster than independent shops, ensuring your vehicle is up-to-date with any important safety or performance improvements.
7. Convenience and Additional Services
Dealerships often offer more than just routine maintenance. Many, like the ones at the Folsom Auto Mall, provide amenities like shuttle services, loaner cars, and even comfortable lounges with complimentary coffee and snacks to make your visit more comfortable. Additionally, many dealerships offer special service packages, loyalty rewards, and promotions that can help reduce the cost of maintenance over time. The convenience of having everything you need in one place can save you time and effort.
Servicing your vehicle at a franchised new car dealership offers unparalleled expertise, access to quality parts, and long-term benefits that can save you money and headaches. Whether it’s maintaining your warranty, protecting your investment, or ensuring that your car gets the best care possible, a franchised dealership is the ideal place to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.