The Dealership Fast Lane: Get Your Docs in a Row

Although it can be very exciting to  find yourself at a dealership buying a car, there is definitely some waiting involved.  When you are in the process of buying a car, it’s not like you’re going to McDonalds to get a burger and you’re in  and out.  

The car buying process often involves arranging financing, registering the car, and signing sales contracts.  New car buyers spend half a workday in dealerships in 2011 - about 4.3 hours according to a recent J.D. Power and Associates U.S. Sales Satisfaction Index.  Make the process go smoothly by bringing the following:  

• No surprises.  Be on board with how much your make and model of car is going to cost to insure.  Learn what the timetable is for informing your insurance agent about your new car.  Not being proactive enough and not getting this information ahead of time can be costly.  
• Talk to your bank or credit union and get preapproved for a loan you’ll need.   By getting pre approved, you will know the total loan amount and the interest rate you qualify for.  If you’re preapproved, even if you’re planning on going through the dealer for financing, you’re less likely to see a longer term or higher interest rate.
• Be careful about credit inquiries.   While the general rule is any amount of inquiries within 2 weeks counts as one entry,  some consumers  have had their credit scores dropped as a result of multiple auto loan inquiries.
• Bring your driver’s license and proof of auto insurance with you.  Seems obvious, most people do not get into a car without the two documents, but in the excitement sometimes we forget.  
• A down payment. Be sure you have a way of funding your down payment. If it’s not cash, make sure the dealer accepts the form of payment you’re planning to use.  It is a good idea to call beforehand and make sure they accept a personal check or credit card payment.  Phone first.  

If you plan to trade your car in, be prepared for a little more paperwork.  

You will need

• the car’s certificate of title
• the car’s current registration
• all your car keys and the owner’s manual

With all your documents in order you will be more proactive, ultimately putting you in the driver’s seat.  

At Expressway Dodge we have a strong and committed sales staff with many years of experience satisfying our customers' needs. Feel free to browse our inventory online, request more information about vehicles, and set up a test drive or inquire about financing!

Call us (888) 508-6421.

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Sources

http://blog.credit.com/2015/02/buying-a-car-from-the-dealership-heres-what-to-bring-with-you-108317/

https://www.lendingtree.com/auto/car-loan-documentation-checklist/

Tailgait This Fall With a New Truck

Fall is in full swing, and with the season comes campfires, football games, and tailgating. When you’re not using your truck as a tool this fall, use it for some fun and stock up on these fun additions for your next impromptu tailgate party.

1. Shovel: A small shovel can go a long way. Grab yourself a 3-foot shovel to keep in your pickup so that next time you’re prepared to dig a fire pit or pack a sand couch.
2. Sturdy Wooden Boards: Grabbing a few wooden boards to store in your truck is a great idea. Lay them across your truck bed as an impromptu table for your guests to eat at, or if your truck gets stuck in the sand, they can also come in handy to get some traction.
3. Cooler: This item is pretty self explanatory. Big or small, coolers can play a big part in the success of your tailgate party. After all the drinks are gone, you can also use them as additional seating.
4. Compact Grill and Grilling Gear: These are a must have for any tailgate, and compact grills can grill more than you think. After you’re done, you can clean it, pack it up, and it’ll practically disappear in the back of your pickup.
5. Blankets: Fall nights can cool off fast, so it’s important to come prepared for the chilly weather with a few blankets. The more the merrier!
6. Canopy Tent: Grab a generic canopy tent or support your home team. These tents can help shelter food if the weather takes a turn for the worse, or protect it from the sun. It can also come in handy as extra shelter for any friends with musical talents that decide to put on a last minute concert.
7. Battery Jumper Pack: Tailgating often involves a lot of lights and music running, even when the truck isn’t. This can mean dead batteries, and a jumper pack can help solve that problem when you don’t have any other options.
8. Chains/Recovery Straps: Sometimes your truck can get stuck in the sand, and what are you going to do to get it out? It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, and this is where extra chains or recovery straps come in handy.

If you’re looking for a new Dodge truck to show off at your next tailgate this fall, Expressway Dodge can help find the perfect fit for you and your lifestyle. Give us a call today at 888-508-6421 or visit our website to browse our current stock.

The Benefits of Owning a Jeep

The first jeep ever made was produced for military use, and since then, has become an automotive icon. The distinct shape of the circular headlights and seven slot grill are recognizable everywhere, and have become a trademark of the brand. Read below to learn more about the benefits of owning a Jeep.

Reliability

Jeeps are known for being durable and reliable, and have proven themselves to be time and time again. Jeeps will perform year after year, especially if you keep up with routine maintenance checks and keep it in great shape, your Jeep will keep going and going for years to come. Not only are Jeeps reliable, they are simply constructed, making them easy to repair when the time comes.

Customization

There’s no doubt that Jeeps have a different look to them, and one great aspect of that is the ability to customize them as little or as much as you want. Switch up the top, rims, tire covers and more, and when the weather changes, you not only have the ability to take the top off completely, but you can also take off the doors for an incredibly fun ride. Most personalizations and customizations can be done after you buy your vehicle, so you know you can change things up down the road.

Durability

Jeeps go back all the way to World War II, and were created to withstand all types of weather and terrain. The exterior is durable and made to weather all types elements including wind, rain, snow, mud, and sand. Not only will the exterior stand up to tough conditions, but the interior will hold up through long road trips, weekends camping, or just short trips to the grocery store.

They’re Fun

Because Jeeps were built to hold up against the test of time, and pretty much anything you put them through, you can really have some fun with your vehicle. Heading out on weekends to the trails and really putting your Jeep to the test is something Jeep owners all over the country enjoy, and taking out your friends and family, Jeep owners or not, will be a great time.

Whether you’ve owned a Jeep before or are looking to purchase your first one, Expressway Dodge has the perfect vehicle for you. Give us a call at 888-508-6421 to set up a test drive, or visit our website to check out our new and used stock.

Get the Right Service at Our Service Center

Would you go to a general practice doctor to treat a broken limb? In most cases you probably would seek out the care of an orthopedic specialist to ensure that your condition was treated properly. This is because an orthopedic doctor is specifically trained to work with conditions that impact the bones. So why would you go to a general mechanic to fix your car? Your dealership has intimate knowledge of all the cars they sell. This makes their service center more qualified to repair them.

• Certified technicians - Not only are the technicians at a dealership service center extremely knowledgeable about the type of car sold on their lot, they are also certified to work with those models. This means that the technicians at Expressway are certified to work on Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep and Ram vehicles. This provides you peace of mind in knowing that they will be able to diagnose and fix any issues with your vehicle quickly and reliably.  
• OEM parts - In addition to having a staff experienced in servicing your car, we have the parts that are recommended by the manufacturer. We also utilize state of the art technology to diagnose and service your vehicle. This means your car will have the equipment needed to run efficiently and effectively.
• Price – The biggest complaint that customers have when dealing with a dealership service center is the price. Our service center offers a variety of specials every month to ensure that our customers are getting the best possible service at a fair price.
• Convenience: Not only can you schedule your service online, but you can choose from a wide range of service hours. And, if you need a ride to work, we offer a complimentary shuttle service so your repairs can be conducted and ready at the end of the business day.
• Satisfied Customers -  Our goal is to provide each of our customers the best possible care. We thrive on customer service and ensure every client gets personalized attention for all their vehicle's needs.

Does your vehicle need a checkup? Contact the Expressway Dodge service center at (812) 702-4086 to schedule an appointment. Or use our handy online scheduling tool.  

Coming Soon to an Expressway Dodge Near You - The All New 2018 Jeep Compass

The wait is almost over! The Jeep Compass is completely redesigned for the 2018 model year. In terms of appearance, Jeep will continue its highly successful strategy of evoking the ruggedness of the more expensive Grand Cherokee with a bold front end. The compact crossover has gained a more efficient engine, an updated range of transmissions, and the latest connectivity and safety features. Enthusiasts can also look forward to new 4x4 options like the first-ever Compass Trailhawk.

Some upscale features help set apart the latest Compass from the version it’s replacing. For example, available LED taillights offer a premium look, while a new panoramic roof will be a first for the model. An available gloss black painted roof enables drivers to achieve a more unique look whether on the road or out on the trail.

Underneath the hood, the 2018 Compass has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 180 hp with 175 lb-ft of torque - identical to that of the FIAT 500X. The outgoing Compass features a 2.0-liter engine making 158 hp and 141 lb-ft, although a 2.4-liter mill is optional, producing 172 hp and 165 lb-ft. One notable addition is the stop-start technology for enhanced efficiency.

A 6-spd manual transmission will be available on all versions of the new Compass. On 4x2 versions, a 6-spd automatic will also be available. However, the bigger news is the addition of a 9-spd automatic on 4x4 models. Although the 9-spd is a first for the Compass, it has faced criticism for lacking smoothness and refinement in other vehicles like the Jeep Cherokee.

Drivers looking for more serious off-road capability will want to consider the new Trailhawk model. Jeep says the Trailhawk will be able to pass through up to 19 inches of water and be capable of towing up to 2,000 lbs.

Safety is another area in which the Compass aims to outshine its predecessor. Drivers have the ability to configure their vehicle with the latest driver assistance tech such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and more.

We invite you to check out the all new 2018 Jeep Compass as soon as it is available. We guarantee it will be well worth the wait! Expressway Dodge is located at 5531 E. Indiana St in Evansville, Indiana. Stop in Monday through Saturday anytime between 8:30 AM and 8:30 PM, to test drive a vehicle or meet with one of our salespeople. Please don’t hesitate to call (812) 770-4034 with any questions you may have.

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Sources:

http://www.expresswaydodge.com/ (images from client website of 2017 Jeep Compass)

http://www.allpar.com/SUVs/jeep/compass.html

http://www.motortrend.com/cars/jeep/compass/2018/

http://www.jeepproblems.com/trends/9-speed-transmission-problems/

Summer Is the Best Time to Buy a Dodge

Do you see yourself out on the open road this summer with a new vehicle? Summer is one of the best times of year to buy a vehicle at Expressway Dodge. Our summer specials this year mean that you could be driving your new Chrysler, Jeep, RAM, or Dodge to your next camping trip, fishing expedition, or family vacation this season!

 

As an added incentive, we’re also currently offering our Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash offer for trading in your current vehicle. Get a real offer based on trusted Kelley Blue Book values today! In addition, manufacturers frequently offer their own incentives on top of dealership specials. Check here for current manufacturer incentives from Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and RAM today!

 

Right now, for example, you can purchase this 2017 Jeep Cherokee Latitude for the sale price of $22,892. That’s over $7,300 off the MSRP of $30,220. Combined with your Kelley Blue Book Instant Cash trade-in value, you could walk away with savings of over $10,000. This vehicle boasts a 9-speed automatic transmission, and an estimated 29 mpg rating!

 

Even our pre-owned vehicles are on sale, if a used car is more your “speed.” The best way to take advantage of our inventory and specials is to make a visit to our dealership. Our dedicated staff will go over our current specials, can set up vehicle test drives, and help you choose the best fit for you.

 

Expressway Dodge is located at 5531 E. Indiana St in Evansville, Indiana. Stop in anytime during our sales hours from Monday through Saturday, 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM, to test drive a vehicle or meet with one of our salespeople. We also would be happy to answer any questions about our inventory at (812) 770-4034.

Why Choose a Dodge?

For someone in the market to purchase a new vehicle, the options for which car brand best suits your needs seem endless and occasionally overwhelming.

 

We consider Dodge to be the vehicle manufacturer that suits every driver. Our experts at Expressway Dodge proudly represent this exceptional car make because it is a brand that we truly believe in. Dodge vehicles are known for their superior quality, unmatched service, and pioneering the latest innovations in vehicle technology and safety.

 

Here are a couple of reasons why Dodge is the best choice for your next car purchase.

 

It’s Always an Exciting Ride

A Dodge is a car for the adventurer, for the risk taker, for those of you who like the feel of an adrenaline rush. Every Dodge vehicle, from the Charger to the Challenger, the Durango to the Viper, offers you the exciting sensation you should feel every time you get behind the wheel.

 

Quality Comes First

No aspect of a Dodge car is overlooked when it comes to quality. Each element of a Dodge car is perfectly built to make you love your vehicle just as much as we do. 

 

Their Warranties are Among the Best in the Industry

No brand takes care of your vehicle, or wants it to have a quality lifetime, more than Dodge. The extensive Dodge warranty coverage plans keeps you driving safer, farther, longer, and harder, than any other car make on the market today.

 

There are also plenty of warranty options to choose from, to ensure you are getting the coverage you need and want for your precious vehicle. A customer favorite at Expressway Dodge is the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty; among other potential issues, this warranty protects you from problems with your gas engine, transmission, and drive systems. Dodge is also proud to offer a 3-year/36,000 mile basic limited warranty and roadside assistance service to all of its valued drivers.

 

When you are choosing your next vehicle, rest assured that there is no better alternative for you than the high quality, superior ride that Dodge is known for. And when you’re choosing Dodge, look no further than Expressway Dodge. We are here to get you into the Dodge of your dreams. Call us today if you have questions about your upcoming Dodge purchase at 812-770-4034. You can also pay us a visit and explore our vehicles in person at 5531 E. Indiana Street.

Introducing the All New Jeep Compass—Coming Soon to Expressway Dodge!

Whether it’s a drive through the rockies or an excursion through a beach town, any adventure requires navigation, a way to point you to where you want to go next. But why not approach the way that you arrive to your next thrilling experience  as an adventure all on it’s own? If you are looking for a vehicle that can transport you to your next adrenaline rush or your next exciting undertaking, look no further. 

Expressway Dodge is proud to announce that it will be introducing the brand new 2017 Jeep Compass to its lot in the coming months. This vehicle is as exciting as it is innovative, the perfect way to transport you from one adventure to the next. The Jeep Compass car boasts a modern design, intuitive technology, world-class driving dynamics, and versatile capability. How would you like your vehicle to feature an 8.4” UConnect Touchscreen? This car’s got it. You can enjoy the luxury and excitement of improved navigation and Apple and Andriod Car Play for an enhanced driver experience.  Do exquisite, leather-trimmed seats with perforated inserts suit your active lifestyle? It’s a luxurious yet durable feature of the All New Jeep Compass that will keep you both stylish and comfortable. Does a heated front seat sound like the perfect way to stay warm during a drive back home from the ski slopes? The All New Jeep Compass has all of these and countless more exceptional features to keep you and your passengers feeling relaxed, safe, and lavish

You think the interior is spectacular, wait until you see it up close and in person. The aerodynamic design screams confidence and extravagance. When you see how the black roof is perfectly combines with the bright chrome molding, and how it elongates the already sophisticated body of the vehicle, you’ll be able to sense the sophisticated adventure of this wonderful car. 

A car can be about living your life to the fullest, or at the very least, supporting your active and spirited lifestyle. This is exactly what the All New Jeep Compass does: it reminds you of what it is to be alive, every time you get behind the wheel. It encourages fun, beauty, joy, and above all, a rich experience.

We invite you to check out the all new Jeep Compass when it is available—we guarantee it will be well worth the wait! Expressway Dodge is proud to serve the greater Evansville, Indiana area. If you have questions about the All New Jeep Compass or any of our other outstanding cars in our inventory, call us today at 812-770-4034. You can also pay us a visit and explore our vehicles in person at 5531 E. Indiana Street.

Winter Tires Versus All-Season Tires

If you have ever driven in extreme winter conditions like a blizzard, ice storm, or a mixture of both, you understand how scary it can be.To make matters worse, weather can be unpredictable...especially in the midwest. In order to feel safe behind the wheel, you want to ensure that your tires have the ability to handle any type of weather condition. Just as coats, boots, and mittens are made for us to withstand the elements, winter tires are designed for automobiles for the exact same reason.

This time of year, many drivers debate whether or not it is worth investing in a dedicated set of winter tires. With advances in all-season tires, and mild winters in some areas, it is a fair decision to wrestle with. Although all-season tires offer traction in a variety of different weather conditions, winter tires surpass them when it comes to traction in snow and ice.

The Major Differences

If you have to drive in snowy conditions, winter tires out-perform most all-season and all-terrain tires with better stopping and starting ability. They are a good choice for all cars regardless of front, rear, or all-wheel drive. The tread compound of all-season tires can harden in low temperatures, so there's less traction between the road and your tires. But winter tires use special rubber compounds that stay pliable in the cold, giving them better grip and improved braking, even in extreme conditions. Need to see it to believe it? Watch videos of winter tires being tested on ice.

What You Should Know

Winter tires can easily be identified with a mountain and snowflake symbol on the sidewall. You always want to use four matching winter tires for the best balance and handling of your vehicle on snow-covered roads. Unfortunately, winter tires wear more quickly than all-season tires, and winter performance will decline as they wear. As a best practice, replace your winter tires before they are worn out (the same as all-season tires), and if you remove them at the end of winter, you may possibly get three to four seasons of good use out of them.

Don’t forget that not all tires are created equal. Winter tires feature tread designs made specifically for ice, snow and other severe winter conditions. Most drivers find that winter tires provide a sense of confidence and control in challenging winter weather conditions

For more information on winter tires for your vehicle, visit the Expressway Dodge website or call (812) 471-2000.

How To Know When Tires Need Replacing

Not sure whether it's time to replace the tires on your vehicle? Unfortunately, there is no consensus among car or tire makers on acceptable tire life. Generally, tires that have been on a vehicle, used as a spare, or stored in a hot or sunny location for more than six years should be checked thoroughly by you or a professional. With a simple tread test and some tire knowledge, you can tell when it's time for replacement.

The “Penny” Test

This is probably the most well-known and common test for tire treads, but it still holds true. Place a penny, head first into several tread grooves across the tire. If you always see the top of Lincoln's head, your treads are shallow and worn. If this is the case, your tires need to be replaced. If part of Lincoln's head is always covered by the tread, you have more than 2/32 of an inch of tread depth remaining, which indicates you have more time with your current tires.

The 10 Year Mark

Tires being used for six years enter a “keep an eye on it” period. First, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations on your specific tires (these are general practices, as not all tires are created equal). It is recommended that, even if your tires appear to be in good condition, as a precaution, they be replaced 10 years after their date of manufacture. You can check the manufacture date by the Department of Transportation (DOT) number on the sidewall of your tire. If you are unsure of how to locate the DOT number, or what it means, find out here.

The Elements

Exposure to heat and the sun’s ultraviolet rays may cause structural changes to your tires. These changes are not usually a concern in moderate climates. If you live in a cold climate or area with snow and ice, winter tires are recommended. No matter where you live, you can increase the life of your tires by maintaining the correct air pressure, getting regular tire rotations, and vehicle maintenance.

Remember the three major factors that determine whether you’re in need of new tires: tread wear, tire age, and exposure to the elements. When it is time for new tires, be sure to get the right tires - for your vehicle, the time of year, the climate, and terrain.

Learn more about tires by visiting the Expressway Mitsubishi website or calling (866) 437-9750.

Winter Driving Emergency Kit for Your Car

January in Indiana can mean snow, ice and a host of other weather conditions that make driving difficult and even dangerous. Being prepared is important.  Here are eight items you should keep in your car this winter in preparation for inclement weather.

1. Cell phone – Most of us don’t go anywhere without our cell phone nearby. However, it is important to ensure that your phone is ready to go with you when you are heading out in winter weather. Be sure your battery is fully charged and bring a charging cable, just in case your trip takes longer than expected.
2. A full tank of gas – Even if your trip is only a short distance, snowy conditions can add time to your travels. Be prepared with enough gas to get you safely to your final destination (with extra to spare).
3. Layers – Mom always told you to dress in layers during the winter. If you are in your car for an extended period of time, layers will allow you to adapt to changing temperatures both inside and outside (if you need to leave your vehicle for any reason) of your car.  
4. Shovel – If you become stuck in a snow drift or ditch, a shovel could assist you in digging out and getting back on the road quicker. It can also help you avoid an expensive towing bill.
5. Sand – Icy conditions can make it difficult to get traction, especially if you are trying to get out of a ditch or drift. Adding a little sand around your tires can give you the extra grip you need to get back on the road.
6. Blankets – If you are stranded for an extended period of time, blankets will keep you warm until emergency assistance locates your vehicle.
7. Flashlight – Being stranded on a country road in the dark can require a little extra light. Keep a spare flashlight in your car at all times (not just in the winter).
8. First aid kit – This is another accessory that should be in your car all the time. Bandages, gauze and other emergency supplies could mean the difference between life and death if you are stranded for an extended period of time.

Avoid car trouble by having your vehicle checked and serviced regularly by a professional mechanic at Expressway Dodge. Our experienced mechanics will make sure you car is in the best possible shape for the cold days ahead. To find out more, visit the Expressway Dodge website!