Category Archives: Listicles

A portrait of a white Honda Accord Hybrid cruising near Hermann Park in Houston.

Top Used Hybrid Cars That Will Save You Money Today and in the Future

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Want a car that’s both eco-friendly and budget-friendly? Hybrid cars are known for their excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions. By opting for a pre-owned model, you can enjoy these perks without paying the premium price of a brand-new vehicle.

Here are some of the best used hybrids, from sedans to SUVs and even a pickup truck. Whether you’re eco-conscious or budget-minded, there’s something here for you.

2021–2023 Honda Accord Hybrid – Midsize Sedan

The Honda Accord Hybrid combines classic Honda reliability with the latest hybrid technology. Known for its spacious and user-friendly interior, this midsize sedan offers exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing comfort or functionality. It delivers an impressive fuel economy of 44–51 mpg city/highway combined and a driving range of up to 614 miles on a full tank. The Touring trim includes advanced features such as adaptive suspension, heated rear seats, Wi-Fi capabilities, and a head-up display. In terms of safety, the Accord Hybrid earns top scores from both IIHS and NHTSA.

Purchasing a pre-owned model is a smart choice, as it retains its top-notch crash safety ratings and comes equipped with features that improve your daily commute, providing reliable and fuel-efficient transportation. Used versions generally start around $20,000.

2021–2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Small SUV

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a fantastic option for those in search of a fuel-efficient SUV. With standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and superior fuel efficiency compared to the traditional gas model, it’s a great choice for those looking to buy a used hybrid. It achieves 40 mpg combined and offers a range of up to 580 miles. The roomy interior provides ample space for passengers and cargo, making it perfect for family road trips or weekend getaways.

The XLE Premium trim offers standout features such as a power moonroof, a power liftgate, and faux leather seats. Purchasing a used RAV4 Hybrid enhances its value, blending comfort, performance, and efficiency. Mid-tier trims like the XLE Premium provide excellent value, while the Limited trim steps up the luxury with extras like an 11-speaker JBL audio system. Pre-owned models are typically priced between $30,000 and $38,000.

2023 Toyota Prius – OG Eco Star

The Toyota Prius has been a hybrid icon since its debut, and the 2023 redesign improves its eco-friendly legacy with sleek looks and advanced fuel efficiency. With exceptional mileage and a practical liftback design, the Prius is ideal for those focused on fuel savings. It boasts 57 mpg combined, with all-wheel-drive versions slightly lower at 49 mpg, and a range of around 588 miles. The LE or XLE trims offer the best mix of efficiency and features. There’s also the Prius Prime plug-in hybrid, which provides up to 25 miles of electric range.

Buying a gently used 2023 Prius can save $1,000–$2,000 while still offering the latest styling and technology. Used prices range from $23,000 to $29,000. With its versatile liftback design, the Prius is perfect for carrying groceries, gear, or anything else you need.

2023 Ford Maverick – Hybrid Pickup Truck

Who said hybrids can’t haul? The 2023 Ford Maverick is a great choice for anyone seeking a compact, fuel-efficient pickup. With 37 mpg combined and a range of 511 miles, it’s perfect for lighter truck tasks. The tech-forward Lariat trim adds features like a B&O sound system, leather seats, and Ford Co-Pilot360 driver assistance.

The Maverick offers impressive utility for its size at an affordable price, with used models ranging from $26,000 to $40,000. If you’re after a hybrid with pickup versatility, the Maverick deserves a look.

2023 Kia Niro – Compact yet Efficient Crossover

If fuel economy is your priority, the Kia Niro is a great pick. This compact crossover offers excellent gas mileage, plenty of space, and a budget-friendly alternative to the Prius.

With up to 53 mpg combined and a driving range of 588 miles, it’s efficient and practical. The EX trim stands out with dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless smartphone integration, and adaptive cruise control. The plug-in hybrid version adds 26 miles of all-electric range.

The Niro combines efficiency, modern tech, and comfort at an affordable price. Used models typically range from $20,000 to $26,000. For added luxury, look for the EX Premium trim with ventilated seats and a premium audio system.

Finding Your Ideal Hybrid at Charge-A-Car

When you buy a used hybrid, you not only save up front at the dealership but also enjoy huge savings at the pump. Plus, hybrids typically have longer lifespans due to their advanced engineering, making them a more reliable used car purchase.

Whether you’re after a midsize sedan, small SUV, compact crossover, or even a hybrid truck, these models stand out for their fuel efficiency, reliability, and user-friendly features. Each one offers a unique set of benefits to fit your lifestyle and budget.

Ready to find your perfect match? Visit Charge-A-Car today and test drive one of our great newer pre-owned fuel-efficient vehicles. Take the first step toward a more eco-conscious and cost-effective future! Let us help you find the perfect used hybrid for you! Happy driving!

The Top 10 Compact SUVs You Can Find Under $20K

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We know the drill: prices are up around the country (and at the pump), and the automobile industry hasn’t been exempted. But as we detailed in our post of the best SUVs for under $20K, great deals can be found if you know where to look. 

If you’re looking to go slightly smaller with your SUV search, a compact SUV may be just the thing you need. Here at Charge-A-Car, we tracked down 10 recent-model compact SUVs that you should be able to find without breaking the bank. 

2018 Mazda CX-5 

If you’re looking for a dynamic compact SUV, you might not find a better option than the 2018 Mazda CX-5. Powered by its 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated motor, the CX-5 features awesome steering and handling. Its luxurious interior and top safety scores are just the cherries on top. If you value performance above all else, look no further than the Mazda CX-5. 

2018 Hyundai Tuscon 

The five-passenger 2018 Hyundai Tuscon will have you feeling at home within your vehicle with its spacious, quiet cabin. Featuring some of the highest safety and predicted reliability ratings around, it might lull you into thinking it’s your standard, family-friendly compact SUV. That’s until you dig in and discover its thrilling turbocharged engine option.  

2017 Honda CR-V 

One of the most iconic nameplates on this list, the Honda CR-V is a perennial best-seller for its class. But while the newest CR-V may threaten to break the bank, a comparable model can now be yours for just an average of $20K. Featuring a spacious cargo area, ample rear seat legroom, excellent fuel economy, and top safety scores, the CR-V’s weaknesses are miniscule. 

2018 Toyota RAV4

Perhaps the most recognizable compact SUV in the segment other than the CR-V, offers many of the same strengths as Honda’s compact: a roomy interior, efficient powertrain (which includes an available hybrid option) and a sold lineup of equipment and features. It’s also remarkably comfortable in motion, with many citing the smooth ride it gives you every outing. 

2018 Subaru Forester 

The Forester enjoyed an impressive sales tick for Subaru in 2023, with a spike of 34 percent. It’s easy to see why its popularity is exploding; with ample storage space and off-road finesse, the Forester has become one of the most versatile compact SUVs on the market. Get in on the ground floor with the 2018 model and see what all the fuss is about. 

2019 Kia Sportage 

Another vehicle that has by now become synonymous with reliability, the Sportage is a thoroughly balanced vehicle. Its spacious, upscale interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and easy handling make this a perfect entry-level SUV (provided you can overlook the slight downtick in cargo space and gas mileage, compared to some competitors). 

2019 Chevy Equinox 

The Equinox regularly boasts outstanding predicted reliability ratings, putting it near the top of its class year after year. The interior, while not quite as well-stocked as some comparable cabins, still offers plenty of room and comfort. But when you throw in its powerful turbo-four engine and class-leading fuel economy with diesel powertrain, the Equinox is constantly full of surprises. 

2018 Nissan Rogue 

If top-tier gas mileage is at the top of your shopping list, the Nissan Rogue has you covered. It’s not the most powerful compact you’ll find, but it may just be the one that keeps you on the road longest. Plus, amongst all compacts, it boasts one of the lowest total cost-of-ownership costs. Throw in an upscale and spacious interior and tons of advanced safety features, and the Rogue might be the total package you’re looking for. 

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 

Like the Nissan Rogue, the Tiguan won’t blow you away from a performance standpoint with its modest single engine. What VW’s compact does offer are many user-friendly features and tons of cargo space, with an especially roomy second row. The Tiguan also scored high marks on its crash-test and predicted reliability ratings. 

2018 GMC Terrain 

The GMC Terrain is well-equipped, comfortable, and about all else you can ask for from an interior perspective. You’ll find underfloor storage and forward-folding front passenger seats, creating all the cargo room you could ask for. (The stylish exterior is no slouch itself.) To hit the sub-$20K point we’re aiming for, you’ll probably want to scope out the mid-range Terrain SLE. 

Discover the Deal of a Lifetime Today

Though these affordable options are the best in the market, it can still be difficult pinpointing the best match for your lifestyle. Fortunately, at Charge-A-Car, you’ll be provided with all the assistance you need to find the vehicle for you.

We make finding your dream car as simple as can be at Charge-A-Car, from our expansive inventory to our on-the-spot financing. Schedule your test drive at Charge-A-Car today and drive off into a more financially secure tomorrow. 

Why Used Car Buying is the Way to Go in 2024

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As the first month of 2024 comes to a close, there’s never been a better time to shop for used vehicles. Thanks to modern day enhancements, cars are built to last in ways they never were before, creating a robust and diverse used car market. 

Today, Charge-A-Car presents five reasons why it’s time to pay a visit to Aurora’s number one used dealership.

1. They Cost Less Now 

Let us first confirm that, yes, a used car still costs less than a brand-new car, and always will. The economy’s ups and downs have compounded the new car market in recent years. However, used car shopping remains as approachable as ever.  

By buying used, you’re able to bypass several of the fees and taxes typically associated with new car buying. Insurance costs are curtailed, as used cars have already depreciated in value and thus come with reduced premium rates. Furthermore, if there’s a specific new model you have your eyes set on, chances are you can find a comparable, more affordable model that’s only a year or two older. 

2. They Also Save You Money Down the Line 

When you buy used, you’re not just saving money on the purchase price – you’re making a wise investment. Used cars generally tend to be cheaper to maintain and repair than new cars. Used cars have been on the market for years, making their parts more readily available for purchase.  

New cars straight off the assembly line may not have odometer readings, but they also have no previous owner history, leaving you with no point of reference when something goes amiss. Before you purchase a used car, make sure you look into the vehicle’s history report, which gives you a comprehensive overview of its health and potential warning signs to stay alert for. Use CARFAX or a similar site to complete your due diligence. 

3. Less Vehicle Depreciation 

The adage about new cars is that they depreciate the moment you drive them off the lot. New cars typically depreciate by roughly 20 percent upon leaving the dealership. Their value then decreases an additional 10 percent during their first year of ownership. 

Used vehicles have already weathered that initial, unavoidable depreciation hit. As such, they’ll continue to depreciate at a much slower rate moving forward, making your cost-to-value ratio more stable as a result. 

4. A Larger Selection 

Variety is the spice of life. New car shopping automatically limits you to the styles and trends of this year’s models. But there are plenty of fish in the sea, and millions of unique used cars to select from. From vintage cars no longer in production to optional colors and features that were exclusive to a particular year’s model, your dream car awaits amidst a sea of virtually infinite options. 

5. More Car for Your Buck 

Modern vehicles are built to last in ways we never imagined at the turn of the century. 200,000 miles on the odometer is the new 100,000 (or close enough to it). Most new vehicles come with generous manufacturer warranties that could potentially be transferred to you after you buy. And with the advancements that have been made with safety features and apps, buying an older model carries less risk than it did in the past.

For these reasons and more, there’s never been a better opportunity to get the most bang for your buck when you buy used. 

Discover the Used Car of Your Dreams Today 

Now that we’ve covered how much sense it makes to buy used, your next step is finding your dream car amidst our used selection here at Charge-A-Car.  

Schedule your test drive today and prepare for the huge savings heading your way. We’ll get you completely financed and squared away before you drive off our lot. After one trip to Charge-A-Car, you’ll discover why used car shopping is the only way to car shop. 

5 Ways to Keep Your Car Smelling Fresh in the New Year

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We’re getting set to flip the calendar on another year, meaning your vehicle officially becomes one model year older. But even if a new vehicle isn’t in your 2024 plans, you can still get your current car smelling brand-new.

Courtesy of Charge-a-Car, here are five strategies to avoid complacency and keep your car smelling fresh year-round.

Clean the Upholstery

Let’s start with the essentials. Dirt, debris, and pet hair accumulate quickly within your car’s interior, and without constant upkeep, you could find yourself wondering how you let things go. Vacuuming regularly not only eliminates unwanted material, but it also reduces odors that get trapped in the upholstery. You should utilize the vacuums at the car wash whenever you take your car to be washed (which you should do bi-monthly), but it also might help to keep a hand vacuum in the car for more regular maintenance.

As we gear up for New Year’s resolutions, let’s also make 2024 the year we ditch smoking in the car. Besides being an unhealthy habit, the smoke leaves behind a permanent, ashy smell and could potentially damage the car’s upholstery. Let’s kick this bad habit in the butt and ensure fresh air for our rides!

Don’t Let Garbage Linger

Many drivers don’t bother having a waste bin in their car – for them, the car itself becomes a dumping ground. It’s important to treat your car’s interior just like any room in your house. Make it a habit to promptly dispose of any trash you generate.

Consider purchasing a car trash can if your vehicle is spacious enough to allow it. Most of them are available for under twenty dollars. Stick it in a safe spot next to your seat and properly dispose of snack wrappers, ATM receipts and beverage containers rather than letting them join the collection amassing on your floor mats. (Also make sure you shake out those mats every week or so.)

Leave Baking Soda Out Overnight

Baking soda: the secret ingredient of the cleaning world. If you’re dealing with persistent or overpowering odors in your car, here’s a simple trick: just sprinkle a small amount of baking soda on your mats and carpets. Allow it to sit overnight, and then vacuum up the remaining residue the next morning. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the fresh scent left behind after the baking soda has absorbed many of the unwanted odors in your vehicle.

When you’re pressed for time and can’t pinpoint the source of an odor, baking soda comes to the rescue. No need to rush to the detailer. Simply leave an open box of baking soda in your driver’s door pocket for a few days if the smell lingers.

Use an Air Freshener

They may be passé, but there’s a reason you still see air fresheners dangling from rearview mirrors: they consistently do the job. It’s important to choose an air freshener that neutralizes odors instead of simply masking them. With a wide range of top-notch products available, there’s little sense in finding a temporary fix for a problem that can be actively resolved.

You can also invest in an oil diffuser. In addition to masking unwanted odors and replacing them with a rich fragrance, essential oils have been known to reduce stress and keep you alert while you drive.

Know the Difference Between Cleaning and Detailing

When you detail your car, you give it a complete makeover, focusing on deep cleaning and restoring the interior. Forget about regular surface cleaning and quick vacuuming; detailing goes beyond that, paying attention to the smallest details. It’s about giving neglected areas, like air vents and spaces between seats, the care they need.

Car detailing involves a thorough cleaning that demands hours of your time and a variety of cleaning materials. You can even go the extra mile by shampooing the upholstery and applying a protective coat of wax. Keep in mind that each additional step you take not only eliminates odors but also restores your car with a fresh, like-new appearance.

So Fresh and So Clean

Head into the new year with your car smelling factory new by implementing these strategies. And when you are prepared to change vehicles, our inventory at Charge-A-Car is guaranteed to have what you’re looking for. Buy and finance your car at the same convenient location today! Schedule your test drive at Charge-A-Car and drive into the new year with a clean slate.

The 10 Best SUVs to Buy for Under $20K

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In the market for an SUV but not in the mood to break the bank? Join the millions of others looking to avoid big spending this holiday season. Prices have risen seemingly everywhere, and the auto market is no exception. The average price of a new car has risen to upwards of $48,000 – and SUVs are often at the upper echelon of the price spectrum. 

Luckily, the used car market has started to level off, and several high-quality, recent models have rejoined the ranks of affordability. Here are ten of the best used SUVs available, each with a confirmed minimum average price of less than $20,000.

2017 Ford Escape 

The 2017 model of the Escape went through a thorough cosmetic update and gained an optical 245-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It took home numerous top awards as a result and can be yours today for a beyond reasonable price. Best of all, its vaunted, top-of-the-line Titanium trim should now be out there in the world for under the $20K mark. 

2017 Kia Niro 

The Niro was introduced in 2017 as a swift and efficient hybrid hatchback, with fuel economy ratings of 52 city/ 49 highway. But the Niro stood out as a more affordable option than the Prius and outdid Toyota’s hybrid in many ways. For instance, the car’s tight steering and maneuverability make it ideal for tight parking spaces and city driving. But it all comes back to efficiency, and six years later, little has changed on that count. 

2018 Jeep Renegade 

The perfect choice on this list for the off-road adventurer, the Renegade’s boxy frame highlights its excellent headroom and overall solid build. Consider it a more affordable alternative to its big brother the Cherokee. If able, seek out the Limited trim – a top choice for regular features – and the off-road enhancing Trailhawk trim. 

2018 Chevrolet Equinox 

The Equinox’s third generation began in the 2018 model year, offering three available engines and a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The Equinox is a great choice for young families, as it earned fantastic reliability and safety scores. It’s deceptively spacious, the interior is soft and comfortable, and this 2018 model handles quite gracefully. 

2019 Hyundai Santa Fe 

Like the Equinox, the Santa Fe features a level of spaciousness you wouldn’t expect from the outside. It sports an abundance of passenger room and cargo space in equal measure. The second-row seats can be folded from the tailgate area. It may not blow you away with innovation, but with its high safety scores, driver assist, and active safety features, the 2019 Santa Fe is fueled by practicality. 

2019 Subaru Forester 

The Forrester won’t blow you away with performance and speed, but what it lacks in flare it more than makes up for in all-around capability. It’s powered by a four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower, has a technically modern and comfortable interior, and generally lacks downsides. Though the more popular Limited and Touring trims still fall out of our price range, it’s hard to go wrong with the 2019 Forester when it comes to checking every box. 

2019 Buick Encore 

Although not technically a luxury brand, Buick’s vehicles often feel cut from the same cloth. The Encore is no exception, with a flashy exterior and an interior that guarantees a smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride every time you hit the road. A range of popular, unique trims include the luxury-enhancing Essance and upgraded Sport Touring. You’ll be hard pressed to find a subcompact this fleet-of-foot at such a price point. 

2019 Hyundai Kona 

Ah, the quirky subcompact of the group. Although it lacks the cargo space of more traditional SUVs, the Kona rocks a funky design and is as much fun to drive as it is to gawk at. The 2019 model added crucial standard features such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver-attention monitor. Overall, the Kona feels more expensive than it actually is. 

2020 Kia Sportage 

Style points abound for this sharply designed compact SUV. Though it may not perform to the level of some of its competitors, the interior gets the job done. Perhaps most importantly, no one would be able to guess you were able to purchase this nearly new crossover for under $20K. 

2014 Lexus RX 

The RX’s value has largely held thanks to Toyota’s corporate reliability – and also because the RX offers a superior amount of luxury with a low risk of costly repair bills. You’ll probably have to go back nearly a decade, and some of the features and tech will be dated. That said, to be able to purchase an SUV of this quality at this price point speaks for itself. 

Get On the Road in No Time 

These are some great deals, and you won’t find a better dealer to hook you up than here at Charge-A-Car. Make car buying easy again; choose your car, get financed, and drive it off the lot! Schedule a test drive today and go off into the night with your heart light and your wallet full. 

4 Automotive Innovations To Be Thankful For This Season

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Thanksgiving is just around the corner – a time for second helpings, second cousins, and getting through the second quarter of the Cowboys game before the tryptophan sets in.

It’s also a season that calls for introspection, for renewing your appreciation of the things that make life worth living. Whether you’re out picking up the turkey or chauffeuring the family to Grandma’s place, the constant holiday travel serves to remind us how important it is to have a reliable vehicle.

We can’t give thanks to our cars with acknowledging the recent advancements that have been made across the automotive industry. With a plethora of modern features, today’s driving experience is safer and more convenient than ever before. Before you get set to preparing Thanksgiving dinner, here’s four courses of recent and semi-recent automotive innovations we should all be thankful for:

Collision Avoidance Technology

The introduction of airbags was a huge leap forward for vehicle safety, providing a vital shield of protection following an accident. However, modern automakers are now focusing more on preventing such incidents from occurring altogether. This is where collision avoidance systems (CAS) come in and play a critical role.

The first (extremely rudimentary) rearview backup camera was introduced way back with the 1956 Buick Centurion, and today, that feature comes standard with most new vehicles. But car manufacturers’ goals have expanded to include fully-integrated driver assistance systems. These systems go beyond just alerting drivers about nearby vehicles; they can assume full command of the car’s functions to avert potential accidents. It’s the closest we’ve come to enveloping our cars in a force field (for now), and every day its presence saves lives.

Mobile App Interconnectivity

The world is more interconnected than ever, and your car plays a vital role in this never-ending web. While Bluetooth connectivity and other ways of linking your phone to your vehicle have been around for more than a decade, there has been a recent surge in the popularity of connected mobile apps.

For many car manufacturers, the integration of as many compatible applications as possible has become a top priority. In theory, it will make the transition from your home or office to your vehicle increasingly seamless. Assuming this trend continues, when it’s time to give thanks ten years from now, it might actually be easier to list the things your car isn’t capable of doing.

EcoBoost Engines

Any technological advancement becomes moot if we don’t prioritize our planet’s health first and foremost. Ford’s EcoBoost engine is a sustainable alternative to traditional engines, developed with this core belief in mind. This turbocharged petrol engine uses direct injection technology and aims to deliver comparable power and torque to standard engines, while significantly improving fuel efficiency. The result is a 20% boost in fuel economy and a 15% reduction in greenhouse emissions.

When we look ahead at the future of automobiles, electric vehicles and green-first options are bound to become more widespread. EcoBoost engines, being more affordable and versatile than conventional gas or diesel engines, will likely continue to gain popularity.

LED Headlights

Since their introduction in 2004, LED headlights have gained popularity among manufacturers, especially luxury brands. The reasons are clear – LED lights offer numerous advantages over traditional halogen and tungsten lights. These benefits include longer lifespans, better visibility, and reduced electricity consumption. As a result, LED headlights significantly reduce the cost of maintenance.

The Rest is Gravy

We have plenty to be thankful for here at Charge-A-Car – especially our loyal customers. Come check out our entire vehicle inventory. It’s a bit like an elegant Thanksgiving spread – plentiful, variable, and there for your fulfillment. Bon Appétit, and have a happy holiday!

5 Tips to Ensure You’re Buying a Reliable Used Vehicle

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Used car shopping can be intimidating, especially when you’re entering with little to no preparation. When so much information is being thrown at you, it can be difficult to maintain focus on the vehicle’s most important aspects.

No two vehicles are alike, and when you shop Charge-A-Car‘s large inventory of cars, trucks, SUVs, and hybrids, you’ll be presented with a multitude of disparate options. Here are five tips to help you pinpoint exactly what you should be looking for in a vehicle to ensure you’re driving off our lot with a reliable ride: 

Look Up the Vehicle History 

Just as we all have personal records documenting our lifetimes of accomplishments and mistakes, every vehicle has its own recorded history. Researching a car’s history prior to purchasing it is vital, as it chronicles all previous owners and any accidents they may have been involved in.  

Like when a sports team balks at offering a player a long-term contract due to their concerning injury history, you should be cautious when investing years of your future to a vehicle with a lot of baggage in its past. Use CARFAX, AutoCheck, or a similar VIN history service to get the dirt on your potential next vehicle before you commit to it. 

Check the Mileage 

If a vehicle’s history gives you its comprehensive life’s tale, a simple look at the odometer is often enough to give you the gist of its story. Missouri boasts the fourth-highest per capita mileage in the country, trailing only Wyoming, New Mexico and Mississippi for the highest average of miles driven annually. 

Knowing this, you’ll want a car with that either a.) has a relatively low odometer reading, or b.) is made by a brand with a reputation for building cars with longevity. Do your research before you arrive at the dealership and compare any potential vehicle’s odometer reading with its age to determine how much wear and tear it’s already endured under previous ownership.

Thoroughly Inspect the Interior and Exterior 

Be as thorough as possible in checking every crevice of both the outside and inside of the vehicle. Some exterior damage will appear obvious, such as dents, scrapes, and frayed paint. But you’ll also want to closely review the tread of its tires and the condition of everything under the hood. In doing so, you should be able to confirm the information purported in the vehicle’s history. 

Don’t neglect the interior of the car either. We recommend a test drive (see below), but at the very least, turn the car on to make sure electronics and other features are starting properly. Be aware of any unusual odors or blemishes to the upholstery. Even if these imperfections don’t impact the performance of the car, it may be enough to talk you down to your preferred price range. 

Take It for a Test Drive 

There’s no better way to get a feel for a car’s health than putting yourself behind the wheel of it. Insist on a test drive before you make a decision, and don’t be afraid to put the car through its paces. Drive it both fast and slowly, make turns both sharp and wide, and take it on a variety of surfaces, from highways to off-road terrain. 

Your new vehicle is responsible for keeping you on the road in a variety of scenarios, so make sure you test out as many of those scenarios as possible before you permanently drive it home. 

Get a Second Opinion 

When making any major life purchase, it never hurts to have a second pair of eyes. Ideally, you’ll be able to get an expert’s opinion; making an appointment with an independent mechanic before you purchase, though time-consuming, will alleviate much of your car-buying anxiety. 

At the very least, bring a friend with you to the dealership, preferably one with automotive knowledge. Share with them your checklist of details you want inspected before you purchase, in case you get personally sidetracked in dealing with the salesperson. 

Drive Off Happy Today 

If you’ve followed all these steps and you’re satisfied with your findings, you should be good to go! You’ve researched the car, taken its odometer reading, inspected it inside and out, driven it for yourself, and gotten a supplementary opinion.  

Schedule your test drive at Charge-A-Car today. The biggest remaining problem you’ll have? So many of our vehicles will meet these criteria that choosing which you’ll drive off our lot will become a dilemma of its own. 

5 Auto Myths that Movies Continue to Perpetuate

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Films and cars have have experienced quite the love affair throughout cinema history. Car chase scenes, popularized by actors like Sean Connery and Steve McQueen, became a staple of the New Hollywood epoch in the 1960’s. Countless beloved movies, from Back to the Future to Ferris Bueller to Mad Max: Fury Road, are synonymous with the iconic cars associated with them.

This cinematic romance with automobiles has only grown stronger over the years, with Ford v Ferrari earning a Best Picture nomination in 2020 and Fast and the Furious releasing its tenth mainline edition this summer, with an eleventh (and two additional spin-offs) in the pipeline. The racing video game franchise Gran Turismo even transitioned to the big screen recently.

However, a lot of our understanding about automobiles, gleaned from these cinematic portrayals, is more fiction than fact. Let’s attempt to separate movie magic from reality, especially when it comes to the following myths.

Landing a Jump Means the Car is Totally Fine

Cinema would have us believe that cars can make perfect jumps from ridiculous heights and continue on their journey unscathed. (See the 2004 version of Starsky and Hutch for one of the most egregious examples). The laws of physics denounce this concept resolutely.

Even minor jumps or unorthodox terrains can lead to a slew of car problems including tire damage, suspension failure, and engine issues. Even if there don’t appear to be issues on the surface, your vehicle could be suffering from internal damage.

Nitrous Oxide Activates Warp Speed

The nitrous oxide button, made famous in movies like Fast and the Furious and Mad Max 2, is often portrayed as a deus ex machina, a magic button capable of thrusting cars into a hyper-accelerated state. When all is looking bleak for the protagonist, a boost of N.O. is a cure-all solution.

Nitrous oxide actually is a practical resource, capable of optimizing engine power for a brief period. That doesn’t mean it causes cars to defy the laws of physics. At most, nitrous oxide increases engine power by 10-15%.

“Drifting” is a Logical Racing Maneuver

The concept of “drifting”, made most famous by the third Fast and the Furious entry, Tokyo Drift, is a curious one. While drifting, drivers engage in a controlled sideways skid meant to propel them forward at a boosted acceleration.

In reality, skidding during a race is counterproductive. Maintaining speed requires rolling in corners, not skidding. The next time you watch a Formula One race, take note of the lack of skid marks on the racetrack. It’s almost as if the greatest drivers in the world are aware of how counterintuitive drifting actually is.

Cars Are Impervious to Mother Nature

In the sunny Hollywood, dramatic weather is less an act of nature and more a tool for creating tension in the plot. Unless the director has a fascination for chasing tempests in their free time, the extreme rain and snow you witness are often the fruit of meticulous set design or CGI. Similarly, the vehicles in these scenarios behave in ways that stretch the imagination.

For every film like I’m Thinking of Ending Things, where Jesse Plemons makes a case for the practicality of snow chains, there exists a scene like the one in Fate of the Furious, where vehicles race and skid across a frozen tundra as though it’s an empty parking lot. Before you consider pushing your vehicle to perform against the harshness of a blizzard, bear in mind that even dropping temperature typical of Autumn can lead to increased risk of battery failure.

A Lone Bullet Hitting the Gas Tank Causes an Explosion

Villains in movies always aim for the gas flap, because a perfectly aimed shot equals an instant explosion, right? In reality, a bullet striking a fuel tank would merely create a hole. For an explosion to occur, a blend of fuel and oxygen is necessary, and fuel tanks do not contain the required amount of oxygen for such an event.

Also be aware that using your car as a shield is not truly safe. Most cars in the real world are not, we repeat not, bullet proof.

Now that we’ve established the difference between fiction and reality, continue to enjoy your movie nights! Just because we don’t live in a world of Matrix physics doesn’t mean you can’t appreciate the ludicrous highway scene from The Matrix: Reloaded. 

While you’re scrolling through your streaming service, deciding what to watch tonight, take a moment to check out our virtual showroom. If and when you like what you see, schedule a test drive today at Charge-A-Car LLC!

Three best friends enjoying traveling at vacation in the car.

Top 5 Driving Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction 

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Posted in Listicles

As drivers, we all have our beliefs and habits on the road that we take for granted. Many of these come from the driving lessons we learned from parents, friends, or driving school instructors. However, not all of these beliefs are necessarily true, or the best practice on the road. 

In this blog, we will debunk five of the most common driving myths in America and provide you with the facts. By the end of this post, we hope you will have a better understanding of safe driving practices and improve your overall driving experience. 

Myth #1: It’s safer to drive with your hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions. 

Many of us learned the traditional way of holding the steering wheel at 10 and 2 o’clock. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends holding the wheel at 9 and 3 o’clock for better control, especially in case of sudden turns or steering movements. 

The 9 and 3 o’clock positions allow for a better grip of the wheel, making it easier to turn it in any direction if necessary. Additionally, this position provides the driver with increased space between their arms and chest in case of an accident, which can help reduce serious injuries. 

Myth #2: It’s safer to drive slower than the speed limit. 

While it’s important to obey speed limits, driving too slowly can also be dangerous. It can lead to impatient drivers behind you, causing them to make reckless maneuvers and potentially cause accidents. In some cases, driving too slowly can be a violation of the law, so make sure to maintain a speed that is reasonable and safe. 

Myth #3: Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive makes you invincible on the road. 

While 4WD or AWD can provide better traction in certain driving conditions (such as on snow or ice), it can also provide a false sense of security to the driver. It does not make you invincible on the road and does not improve braking or steering ability. Always drive according to the road conditions and adjust your speed when necessary. 

Myth #4: Red cars are more likely to get pulled over by police. 

This is one of the most widespread urban legends in the driving community, but there is no evidence to back it up. The color of your car does not impact your chances of getting pulled over. Police officers look for safety violations, such as speeding, running red lights, or failing to use turn signals, regardless of the color of your car. 

Myth #5: Using your phone with your hands-free device is safe while driving. 

While using a hands-free device to make calls or send texts is legal in many states, it is not always safe. Even if your hands are on the wheel, your attention is still divided between driving and the conversation.  

Research shows that any form of phone use while driving can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents. Whenever possible, avoid using your phone while driving or pull over to a safe place if you need to make a call. 

Driving Debunked 

Driving myths can create confusion and impact safe driving habits. By debunking these five common driving myths, we hope to help drivers understand the importance of adopting safe driving practices, following traffic laws, and staying focused while on the road.  

Remember to always drive defensively, be aware of your surroundings, and be mindful of potential hazards. Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility.