Thursday, October 29, 2009

Postponed Check-ups lead to Expensive Procedures

Postponed Check-ups lead to Expensive Procedures
Preventative Care is a Key Step for Healthy Vehicles

Tough economic times might tempt vehicle owners to delay seemingly minor service and repairs. But saving a few dollars today can be very costly in the long run.

“Sometimes a customer is skeptical about the urgency of a recommended repair.” Explained Jim Grove, Service Director at Dick Scott Dodge. “Yet, several affordable services are key to maintaining vehicle safety, efficiency and performance while preventing costly repairs down the road.”

Service advisors at Dick Scott Dodge in Plymouth cite a recent report by U.S. News and World Report “6 Car Repairs You Can’t Afford to Skip” as an important list for helping vehicle owners prioritize the maintenance needs of their vehicles.

The magazine identifies worn brake pads, oil changes, air filters, transmission fluid leaks, burned out lights and clogged fuel filters as the six important vehicle car items that should not be postponed.

For example, replacing a dirty air filter can cost as little as $15.00. But if a dirty air filter prevents the engine from getting enough air, spark plugs can fail. Replacing the spark plugs is a significantly more expensive repair costing up to $300, depending on the engine.

During a routine inspection, the service department at Dick Scott Dodge will check to see if the vehicle needs any factory-recommended service actions. Often, these services and repairs are performed at no cost.

Another free service for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car and Ram Trucks vehicles is computer software updates. Using Chrysler Group LLC’s unique wiTECH tool, service technicians can identify any software updates available and make revisions within minutes. Modern vehicles contain sophisticated computer programs that benefit from occasional updates, similar to personal computers, to keep vehicle and features operating their best.

“In addition to having your vehicle inspected by a factory-trained service technician, there are several simple steps owners can take to prepare their vehicle for fall and winter,” said Grove.

- Check tire pressure: Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes. If the vehicle is not equipped with a tire-pressure monitoring system, check on or near the driver’s-side door for the correct pressure. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 3.3 percent.
- Inspect wiper blades: Streaking, limited visibility, blade tearing or noisy wiper blade operations are the telltale signs that wipers need replacing.
- Prepare for snow removal: Put snow scrapers and brushes in the vehicle before the first snow of the season.
- Pack an emergency kit: Drivers can prepare their own or purchase a safety kit from Mopar that includes a safety flashlight, fleece blanket, six-gage jumper cables, safety triangle, screwdrivers, pliers, two bungee cords and gloves.

“Drivers should always check their owner’s manual for complete information on service and maintenance schedules,” Grove added.

About Dick Scott Dodge
Dick Scott Dodge is an authorized new vehicle dealer affiliated with Chrysler Group LLC and sells new Dodge Car and Ram Truck vehicles; they also have a large selection of Pre-owned vehicles available in all makes and models. Chrysler Group LLC was formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group and produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Car, Ram Truck, Mopar and Global Electric Motors (GEM) brand vehicles and products. Dick Scott Dodge provides service for all Chrysler, Jeep & Dodge Vehicles, as well as ALL other makes & models.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Car Seat Safety

Fall is here, school has started and we are spending a lot more time in our cars now that the cold weather has arrived. Now is the perfect time to remember to make sure your car seat is correctly installed to ensure your child's safety.

If you use the "LATCH System," make sure the LATCH belt is secured to the anchors found in most vehicle seats. LATCH-equipped child safety seats have lower attachments that fasten to the anchors. Most forward-facing child safety seats also have a strap that attaches to the top anchor. Together they make up the LATCH System. If your vehicle or child safety seat are not LATCH-equipped, use a safety belt to secure the seat. For more information on the LATCH system, refer to the owner's manual.

Remember your child must be 1 year old AND weigh at least 20lbs before you can turn your car seat around and have it facing forward. Until then, your seat should remain rear facing. While rear facing the car seat must be buckled in to the vehicle seat tightly. The seat should not move more than one inch from side to side or front to back. The seat should recline so the child's head lies back on the car seat without falling forward. Harness straps should be snug with no slack, and the harness clip should be on the child's chest at armpit level. Again always read the instructions that come with your car seat! Also, NEVER place a car seat in a vehicle seat located in front of an active airbag.

Last but not least, Michigan law requires children younger than age 8 and shorter than 4 feet 9 inches to be properly buckled in a child safety seat or booster seat while riding in a motor vehicle. If your vehicle seats have a head rest, a no-back booster is recommended; a high-back booster is recommended for vehicle seats without a head rest. Booster seats are designed to be used with a lap belt AND shoulder belt, NEVER just a lap belt only! Always be sure to read over the instructions that come with your car seat or booster seat to ensure correct usage to keep your precious cargo as safe as possible!

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Indian News

Indian Motorcycles are making headlines again! In the latest edition of Cycle World Magazine, David Edwards, takes you inside the New Indian Factory to see what's new and what is yet to come!

Read his great article and see why The Legend is Back and going strong!

Click here to view Cycle World Magazine's Article and take a look behind the doors at the Indian Factory in Kings Mountain, North Carolina!

BIKETOBERFEST! October 15th -18th 2009

October is here and that means Biketoberfest is just around the corner. This years Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach, FL is scheduled for October 15th -18th, 2009. This international, award-winning motorcycle festival offers an extended weekend for thousands of bike enthusiasts to enjoy. Tons of fun, sun, beaches, and bikes, what more could you ask for! There will be motorcycle shows and rallies that display new, vintage and custom bikes; demonstration rides on the newest machines from top manufacturers; and on-track motorcycle action at the world-famous Daytona International Speedway.

Come for the bikes, stay for the great food, live music and people watching. There are many events and activities planned at various venues. Make plans to attend Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach, FL Today!

Check out Biketoberfest.org for all the latest updates and event locations!

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Dont Forget THIS SUNDAY Dick Scott's Indian Motorcycle Charity Ride and Chili Cook-Off!!!

Visit www.IndianMotorcycleDetroit.com for more details!