4 Things to Do before Buying a Car

It is great to know that you are now ready to buy a car! The bad: you don’t even know where to begin. You may have a specific car in mind, but it doesn’t end there. Vehicle reviews, stats on reliability overtime, information on the cost of vehicle, and even customer reviews of car dealerships are all important in the process of buying a used car.

Here is some advice from a car dealership in Indianapolis:

Do your homework

Ask around about the suitable car that will fit your needs, your budget, performance requirements, and overall budget. If you have your heart set on a specific model before walking in to a car dealership, that may save time. It will also avoid the risk of being talked into the wrong vehicle.

Consider your lifestyle

Do you have kids, or starting a family soon? Do you find yourself occasionally traveling? Focus on a few questions to narrow down your needs. Compare economy, cargo, and distances that your car will cover.

Call ahead

If you’ve been comparing car models in car dealerships, you already have a shortlist of used cars that you want to buy. Always call ahead and ask about availability of the car before closing a deal.

Get your car loan pre-approved

Before taking another step in a car lot, visit your bank and get yourself pre-approved for a car loan. At Fletcher Chrysler Indianapolis car dealership, you can get pre-approved instantly.

Buying a used car should never be an impulse buy. Do you research, know what you want, and know how much you can spend. 

What Type of Car are You?

Each person has a preference for picking their own car. Whether it is based on function and durability, the type of car you choose says something about your personality. Most people perceive owning a car as a necessity, some suggests that it is a status symbol. So, what type of car fits your personality?

Small car/Hatchback

A small car suggests that you are practical and seek value for money. Small cars give better fuel economy; they’re convenient to park and easy to drive. It also suggests that you are someone who seeks status.

Mid-size Sedan

A mid-size sedan could mean that you have a family. You opted for the car that gives extra space for you and your family. Mid-size cars suggest that you enjoy the value of your money and freedom with company around.

Luxury Cars

This is the type of car that people with power and high status drive. They have a stable career and tend to burn a lot of miles.

SUVs/MUVs/Pick-up trucks

Driving an SUV means that you are adventurous and you enjoy being with some company. This type of vehicle is often the choice of people below 40 years old and enjoy a hard day’s work.

Did we get it right?

If you’re looking for used cars to match your personality, visit Fletcher-Chrysler car dealership in Franklin, Indianapolis. http://www.fletcherchrysler.com/

How to Maintain a Used Car

People don’t realize that maintaining a used car is just the same as maintaining a brand new one. If you have purchased your used car from a reputable car dealership such as Fletcher Chrysler in Indianapolis, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about. You won’t have to go to through anything other than regular car maintenance.

Regular car maintenance is also called preventive maintenance. Your used car from Fletcher Chrysler needs to be happy too. The tips that you are about to learn ensure that you save yourself from spending for repairs in the future. This guide will help you keep your ride healthy.

Do your own inspection.

This may be a given, but this still needs to be stressed. Periodically, do an overall assessment of your car. Check your lights if all are working. Make sure your tires have enough air pressure to save you money and better mileage. The most crucial elements that need to be checked are the fluids. Pull out gauges and dipsticks and read your tank levels diligently and have them changed when needed. See to it that your power steering, coolant, antifreeze, wiper fluid, and oil are enough to ensure that the engine will work properly.

Replace parts and accessories when necessary.

All your car’s parts and accessories should be in fair condition to ensure you and your family’s safety on the road. For instance, have your cabin air filter and engine air filter changed for smooth car operations.

Almost all preventive measures are easy to remember. Most of your car’s need are simple enough and you can do it on your own. Don’t hesitate to call for professional help if you think you can’t do it yourself. Also, if you think that you need a new ride, you can always call Fletcher Chrysler to find you one that suits your needs.

It’s Time to Buy a Car

Are you tired of your old ride and have you been wanting to buy a new one for a long time now? Well, the good news is that now is the time to head to a reputable car dealership to put those savings down. In January of this year, the new car sales rose 14 % higher than the previous year. If the new cars industry is making waves, it only means one thing: now is the time to buy a used vehicle.

As new cars are released in the market, the supply for used cars increase. This means car dealerships will offer good deals. Without a doubt, these used cars will be in good shape, but in lower prices as new car shoppers trade in their old ones. 

Now is your opportunity to get yourself a treat because both fuel prices and used car prices are down. Grab the chance while you still can. You have a wide range of used cars to choose from at Fletcher Chrysler. We have a great selection of SUVs and trucks and fuel-efficient vehicles if you prefer a smaller car. Get your money’s full worth and flaunt a new ride. Visit out Indianapolis car dealership to experience a topnotch car dealership service.

Checklist before Purchasing Used Cars

Used cars are the cheaper alternative to owning a car. These cars may come at a bargain’s price, but purchasing used cars can also be a gamble. If you don’t look closely enough and actually do a thorough check on the car before making the purchase official, you can end up driving away with a used car that will cost you an arm and a leg in future repairs.

Body Check: The Used Car Exteriors

Faded paint and small scratches on the car’s body are easily remedied with a paint job. What buyers should be looking out for are the bigger and major types of damage. Such examples are as follows:

• Rust Damage. Rusting on the car’s body isn’t that much of a big deal, but when it starts to spread, it will be difficult to fix. Check under the wheel wells and hood to assess the extent of the damage. Be wary of rust on the engine though, this will pose as a challenge to fix.
• Frame Damage. The frame is the foundation of the car. Everything from the doors, the engine, to the wheels relies on the frame for support. The best way to determine the state of the frame it to get in inspected by a trained mechanic. 

Deeper Digging: Checking the Interiors

If the used car has passed the exterior inspection, it’s time to dive deeper. Checking that the interior workings of the car are working properly, or are only mildly damaged can save you money. You can either walk away from the purchase and go for another car or speak to the dealer for a price reduction. Here are the important interior parts to check:

• Hose and Belt Damage. Check to make sure that hoses and belts are free of cracks.
• AC and Heater Problems. Sit in the car with the air turned on to see if there is a change in temperature.
• Alignment. The best way to check a used car’s alignment is to take it out for a test drive. If the wheel seems to shake or jump while on the drive, this could indicate an alignment problem.
• Electrical Systems. Although easy to check, the electrical system is also often overlooked. Double check if the radio, headlight, interior lights, etc. are in good working conditions.

 Deciding on purchasing a used car can save you money, but only if you purchase one from a trusted and reliable car dealership.

Safety First: Simple Road Emergency Tips

It happens to the best of us. New cars and used cars alike can sometimes break down in the middle of the road. It can put a damper on plans and become a major inconvenience for the driver and other motorists on the road. During circumstances like these, it is best to be informed and ready on how to deal with the situation. There’s no need to panic or get frustrated, if you take the necessary precautions and avoid certain situations, you and your car will be off to a repair shop in no time.

What to Do During a Road Emergency

Keeping a cool head and having grace under pressure is the number 1 priority when your car has unexpectedly broken down. Take a deep breath and follow these following steps:

1. Locate the origin of the problem. Knowing where the problem lies in will make it easier for you to explain the problem to your mechanic. 
2. Take note of noticeable landmarks within the area. This is important when you are giving directions to a tow truck or your local car dealership who offers repair services. 
3. Make your location known to other motorist. Using reflectors or a bright colored piece of clothing can alter incoming vehicles to watch out. By doing this, you will lessen the chances of collisions and accidents. 
4. Move your vehicle. If it is possible for you to move your car out of the main road, do so. 
5. Contact help as soon as possible. Get in touch with a mechanic or a towing service immediately and stay with your vehicle until help arrives.

Questions to Ask the Dealer When Buying a Used Car

Are you thinking about getting a used car instead of a new one? Used cars aren’t bad at all. In fact, they will save you a lot of money without sacrificing quality. Getting a good deal is more than just about price. But before you buy, there are questions that are needed to be ask to the dealer. Here are some.

1. Who was the previous owner of this vehicle? It doesn’t seem like it’s going to help but questioning who’s the previous owner can get some uncertainty out of the way. If you can get straight answer from the dealer, knowing the previous owner can be as informative as a full service history.

 

2. Can I take this car to my mechanic? Seeing a mechanic is an important part of buying a used car. This is how you’ll be able to find out what’s right or wrong with your chosen vehicle. If a used car dealer or seller won’t let you get the car looked at, drop it.


3. Can I take it for a test drive? Test driving a used car is finding out if the synchromesh is already worn out in second gear or if the engine sounds like there’s a coin bouncing around in there.

4. What’s your cash price for this preowned vehicle? Make your money work for you towards a possible lower purchase price.

 

5. Do you take trade-ins? This can make your life a lot easier if the dealer will handle it for you when you want to sell your own used car.

Try not to feel intimidated when buying a used car from a dealer. Ask all you need to know so you get what you paid for and your expectations are met. Visit Fletcher Chrysler, a car dealership you can trust and count on.

Benefits of Genuine Mopar Car Parts

“Mopar”, which is short for MOtor PARts is a car parts and service that is offered by the Chrysler Group LCC. This service started during the 1920’s, but it wasn’t officially introduced as a brand until 1937, but it has had a proven track record since it is still operational to this day. The parts and services offered by Mopar is available for any and all vehicles that are manufactured by the parent company, Chrysler Group LSS. This includes most of Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth, Imperial, DeSoto, Jeeps, and Fiats cars. 

Original Parts for Quality Cars

A legitimate Chrysler car dealership will offer Mopar as part of their services because customers always deserve the best, especially when it comes to car repairs or car part replacements. It is a combination of sound automotive services and the finest original parts and accessories that makes Mopar stand out from the other car services being offered in the market. Replacing Chrysler cars with parts under qualified parts will not only lessen the value of your vehicle, it can also cause more damage than actual repairs. When you drive your car into a car dealership that offers genuine Mopar car parts and accessories, you can relax as your vehicle will be in the hand of trained mechanics and technicians. 

 

Years of Satisfaction Guaranteed

The success of Mopar cannot be denied as it has been in the market for almost 100 years. Customer satisfaction and safety has been and always be a priority with the Chrysler Group LCC and all of its authorized car dealerships. For repairs, tune ups, and upgrades on any of your Chrysler cars, only go with the genuine and quality parts, because your car deserves the best parts available.

Tips to Keep Your Car Running Longer

Buying a car is the second biggest purchase an adult can make, next only to a house. This means that keeping your car, whether they are new or used cars, in tip top shape for years to come should be everyone’s priority. A car is after all an expensive investment on wheels. If done properly and religiously over the years, any car can last for as long as a lifetime. Keeping your car in running shape is hard work, but in the long run, when a car has lasted years longer than expected, you will know that it was worth it. 

Checking Regularly

It’s a basic fact, regular car checkups is imperative for any vehicle. You will be able to detect any issues before it becomes a hazard on the road. Some of the typical things you should get checked on a regular basis are as follows:

• The Oil. It keeps the vehicle running smoothly, without the right oil level a car will not be able to function at all. Regular oil change is a basic car maintenance procedure.

• Car Brakes. No one wants to hear screeching sounds from old brake pads. Getting them checked by a pro routinely keeps your car safe on the road.

• The Alignment. A car that is not properly aligned will impact your driving as it affects the way your steering wheel reacts. Be sure to have a professional have a look once in a while.

• Tire Pressure. Checking the pressure is easy and can prevent flat tires or other road accidents. Don’t skip on this important up keep.

• Tire Tread. Your car’s traction on the road will depend on the treads of the tires. Wear and tears on tires that aren’t addressed can lead to a variety of accidents.

Importance of Car Maintenance

Maintaining a vehicle to make it last longer is a tedious job, but a fulfilling one. Especially when it comes to used cars, being able to make your investment last long is a big achievement. Of course, this would also depend on the type of car you purchase. Only go to a trusted car dealership for future car purchases to be sure that you get the best deals and high quality products.

The Pros of Used and New Cars

We’ve done it all. We’ve compared and contrasted used cars against new cars. This time, we’re taking a different approach and giving you a list that’s all just the advantages of both choices. Here you won’t find any cons to either choices, instead you will read about these two and all their different positive attributes.

New Car Advantages

The new car smell, that’s one of the best things about opting for a new car, but on the practical side, here’s a list of pros when you buy a new car.

• Warranty. The best thing about new cars, it that you get the warranty without the extra cost.

• Latest Gadgets and Gizmos. Technology is a beautiful thing, especially when it’s combined with the latest car model, you’ll feel like you’re cruising in spaceship.

• Safety. One of the most important things to consider while driving. New cars have updated and are held to a higher standard of safety.

• Higher Fuel Efficiency and Lower Emissions. Save money while saving the environment, new cars are friendlier to the pocket when it comes to fueling up. Their compatibility with new diesels means you get to help the environment while still driving in comfort and style.

Used Car Advantages

Used cars are a popular option for a lot of people nowadays. With these advantages, it’s not even a surprise that more and more people are open to buying a used car, instead of a new one.

• Price. The first and best thing about choosing a used car is the price. It’s cheaper and there’s more room for negotiations.

• Insurance Costs. The rate of car insurance is affect by the age of the car. Used car insurance tends to be cheaper and you won’t get that shock of costly payments.

• Choice. The option of customized cars are wider. Some models and designs that are no longer being manufactured can still be found in used car dealerships.

The main thing to remember when purchasing a car, used or new it to find a car dealership that you can trust. One that is passionate in bringing you and your dream car together. Either way you decide, both options have their advantages, so happy car shopping!

Tips on Deciding if You Should Buy a New or Used Car

One of the biggest challenges customers come across when they’re deciding to purchase a car is the age old question: “Used or new car?” If you’re also asking yourself this question, then you are in luck because we’ll give you a quick review of the basics when it comes to making a final decision. Just like every decision you have to make, you have to consider the pros and cons of each side. Buying a car is after all, one of the major purchases you will make in your lifetime, second only to a house.

3 Important Questions to Ask Yourself

Take the time to really think over the decision you’re about to make. You wouldn’t want to regret an investment as big as a buying a car. Here are 3 questions you should take the time to think about:

1.) Can you really afford a new car?

• If you have a good credit score and you are confident enough in making the down payment and following payments after, a new car is a good option for you.

2.) Will you be able to handle the maintenance of a used car?

• It’s safe to assume that when opting for a used car, you will have to deal with repairs and maintenance will be more troublesome compared to a new car.

3.) Are warranties important to you?

• Used cars, more often than not do not come with a warranty, which means you have to shoulder the rest of the follow up shop repairs.

Make a Wise Decision

If these questions didn’t bring you any closer to a decision, the best thing to do is to visit a credited and reputable car dealership. They will be able to assist you in finding the right car. Whether it’s new or old, your first car or just replacing an old one, making an informed decision is the best way to go about it.

Why a road trip?

A lot of us don’t really take vacations that often. So, might as well make a road trip on instances requiring you to travel. Some of these opportunities include getting your kid on a college interview, visiting family, conventions, and business trips.

The Car

Getting stranded in the middle of nowhere is not on anyone’s bucket list. Avoid this drag by preparing your vehicle on a long drive. Do it by scheduling a maintenance check with Fletcher Chrysler’s garage. This car dealership has very thorough mechanics that will make sure that your car is in top shape before your trip.

Inspecting what’s under the hood allows them to identify if there are leaks to be addressed, battery terminals to be cleaned, inspect all fluids, and replace drive belt if worn out.

Tires should have a good amount of thread left. If not then they should be replace to avoid dealing with a flat tire on the road.

What to Bring

Upon hitting the road you must remember to bring important items for your trip that guarantees you’ll have a fun and be safe one on the road.

Your phone is probably the most essential item you need to bring. This enables you to keep in touch with your love one’s and make arrangements on places where you’ll be at ahead of time. Also helpful on research work you require on every place you pass through. For you to dine in the best restaurants, lodge in the best hotels, and seek out the best points of interest.

Letting the road dictate your route is truly an exciting attribute on this activity. But bringing a map or a global positioning system (GPS) is still required. It can come in handy in situations where you need to go detours to avoid traffic or when you want to go exploring.

Don’t forget to bring snacks. Their helpful on filling your stomach especially when there aren’t a lot of dining options in an area. Extra toiletries could be a life saver on rest stops that’s not fully stocked.

Make the road trip more enjoyable by preparing a customize playlist. Make sure to carry along a mix of tunes that cover every mood from upbeat to introspective. This lets you make most of your trip, and is quite helpful when moving along a route with sketchy radio signals.

An ordinary trip can be turned around into an adventure with friends. Having someone to talk to eliminates boredom. Handy when it comes to taking turns driving. And you’ll be able to record cherish moments of the trip by having someone take pictures with you.

Prepping for a road trip simply allows you to get the most fun out of the adventure by eliminating some of the problems you’re likely to encounter. Have a safe trip!

Get That New Car Smell Even with Bad Credit

Some may deny it, but it may be fair to assume that each of us prefers a new car any time of the day because of the new car smell that constitute a promise to the owner of a dependable performance on speed, safety, and comfort.

New cars almost always guarantee speed, simply because newer models of any vehicles have gone through specifications necessary to boost performance in order to attract customers. 

Safety and comfort go side by side when it comes to automobiles. Companies incorporate newer, better features when it comes to passive and active safety.

Purchasing a New Car with Bad Credit

Even with a job, it can happen to you. You can be branded for bad credit due to instances where you don’t pay on time, refinancing history, and many more factors that create a negative score on your credit.

The good news is car dealerships like Fletcher Chrysler can still consider financing to people with bad credit. It’s good for their business that’s built on relationships. Why? Their investing on the trifecta effect, having one (bad credit) get a car will probably recommend the car dealership to a friend/family member. The car would probably be serviced on the dealer’s maintenance floors, guaranteeing a machine in optimal condition, when the owner decides to trade in.

How Does It Happen?

Upon finding out the score, you must determine what your risk factors are. It’s important to remember not to take them too negatively. Remember that as you fix them; they would be visible as well on all your credit reports in the future as well. Making this an opportunity to build-up your reputation also.

 

Offer Assurances

Bringing paper work is required. Proving that you are employed and are able to work is the most important. And bringing receipts on your utility bills ensures that you have a history of paying bills monthly.

Use your license as ID, ensuring that you have been driving. This can help with your insurance premiums. And you do have to get other people involved as reference. This assures the car dealerships of any liabilities you may incur. So, choose those people wisely.

Bad credit is a setback, but one can work around it with by knowing what to do. Car dealerships like Fletcher Chrysler certainly is here for you to make the deal sweet and easy for you. So come by anytime; we want to work with you.

Family Getaway with Chrysler

The season of summer screams one thing: family time! It’s the time of the year when families can get together and spend time in the great outdoors. Whether it’s going to the beach, a picnic in the park, trekking up mountains, or simply going out of the house and enjoying the bright summer sun, you need a car to take your family to your chosen destination. Good thing manufacturers build cars that can accommodate a large group of people. Car dealership also provides consumers various options and deals that fits their needs. Here are some Chrysler cars that best fit family getaways this summer:

2014 Chrysler Town & Country Touring

If you’re looking for a car that offers basic and durable storage, space efficiency, and high-quality specs, then the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country Touring van is for you. Its 17-inch aluminium wheels are perfect not just in style but also in performance. Its key feature, the Stow N Place® Roof Rack System, is a set of crossbars that can carry extra cargo as heavy as 150 pounds. This is perfect for long family trips when you cannot compromise seating space just to fit your cargo. However, if you need even more space, this car can also haul a trailer rated up to 3,600 pounds.

2014 Chrysler Town & Country

A car that was made primarily for family use, this is a total family driving experience. The 2014 Chrysler Town and Country’s main feature is its innovative seating and storage features. With the Stow ‘n Go® Seating System that includes tailgate seats and storage, you can customize and form the space at the back part of your car. The second-row seats can be folded into in-floor storage bins, giving you the convenience of having seven seats, two, or any combination that suits your needs. And of course, your safety is our top priority as well. With the SafetyTec™ feature, you can be sure your most valuable assets will be protected. With a car that suits your family’s needs, you can guarantee a summer escapade that’s fun-filled and worry-free.

Which New Vehicles at Your Preferred Car Dealership Suit You the Best?

“Timing is everything” is an adage that applies to car-shopping. Of course, it is common knowledge that car prices are marked down significantly at the end of the year. However, if you want your hands on a spanking new car, the best time to do so and head out to your preferred car dealership is late summer. This is when the new-model year vehicles come rolling in their inventory. Below are your picks for new Chrysler models:

2013 Dodge SRT Viper GTS Coupe

This vehicle’s name alone is enough to get sports car enthusiasts excited, and if you belong to the group, you won’t be disappointed. After all, a manufacturer won’t have any reason to attach the name “Viper” in their vehicle if it’s something typical or dull. This car has a classic sports car look creatively mixed with a modern flair, and the massive power of its engine will make you the envy of other sports car fans in your block.

Image taken from www.fletcherchrysler.com

 

2013 Dodge Journey SXT SUV

This is ideal for those with families whom they often take on road trips. This crossover has efficient power to get you to your intended destination trouble-free. Safety and comfort are also priorities of this model. You get spacious interior—which can comfortably seat up to 7 people—and have peace of mind because of state-of-the-art features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, front-impact airbag, and pretensioners.

The Dodge SRT Viper GTS Coupe and Dodge Journey SXT SUV are two great models to include among your options if car-shopping is in your mind before the summer ends. If you have a love for family AND sports cars, there is nothing wrong with opting for both so you get the best of both worlds. With the Chrysler name, you get reliability and efficiency.

Image taken from www.fletcherchrysler.com