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How would you like to learn some tips to help you save money on gas? York Dodge will share some easy ways to improve your car's gas mileage in this blog post. Many of these tips are simple things that you can do yourself, and they will help you use less fuel every time you drive. So whether you are looking to save a little bit of money or reduce your carbon footprint, these tips will help you accomplish both! Drive cautiously: Avoid abrupt starts, quick acceleration, and harsh braking, reducing fuel efficiency by 15 to 30% on the highway and 10 to 40% in traffic. Shift gears quickly: Upshift as quickly as possible if you have a manual transmission. To slow the automobile down while coming to a halt, utilize the brakes rather than downshifting. Consider the road conditions: Keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and "timing" stoplights to maintain momentum and prevent excessive acceleration and braking. Respect speed restrictions: Most vehicles' fuel efficiency peaks at roughly 50 mph and declines as speed increases. Lowering highway speeds by 5 to 10 mph can boost fuel economy by 7 to 14% and will help improve the car’s gas mileage. Use cruise control: On the highway, minimizing speed variations saves petrol. However, never utilize cruise control on slick roads since it might result in a loss of vehicle control. Make your travel plans: Combine errands and plan your journey to avoid unnecessary backtracking. Identify "one-stop" business sites where you can do numerous chores (banking, shopping, etc.) without driving elsewhere. Avoid going at peak hours: If your workplace allows "flex time" work hours, use it to commute and conduct errands during off-peak traffic periods. Maintain Your Car Properly If you properly maintain your car, then it will consume less fuel. Here are some automobile care suggestions to help you save money on gas: Remove any extra objects from the car: An additional 100 pounds can impair fuel economy by 1%. Cargo weight has a greater impact on fuel consumption in smaller cars than in bigger vehicles. Purchase high-quality gasoline: Use the correct gasoline grade (regular, mid-grade, or premium) and Top brands to avoid fuel system and engine deposits that limit efficiency. Check the tires for correct pressure monthly: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, lowering the vehicle’s fuel efficiency. They can potentially overheat and catch fire. Check that the engine air filter is clean: A clogged filter can lower fuel efficiency in older carbureted vehicles. Still, it does not affect maximum power production in newer fuel-injected engines. Look for signs: If the "check engine" light turns on, take your vehicle to York Dodge for professional service as soon as feasible. This light indicates a problem that might raise exhaust emissions and reduce fuel efficiency. Various variables influence car purchasing choices, including personal preferences and safety considerations. Smaller automobiles often obtain greater fuel economy than bigger ones, and hybrid vehicles are more efficient than equivalent non-hybrid vehicles. Visit us at York Dodge, serving Prescott, AZ, where we have committed to assisting and servicing our clients to the highest standard possible. We feel that the vehicle we offer from our vast inventory are of the greatest quality and are perfect for your needs. Sign up with us for a quality service experience today!

Don't be the person who sells their car without prepping it first and then regrets it when they don't get as much for it as they thought. If you're thinking about trading in your used vehicle, do these eight things first. It'll ensure that you get the most money for your car and won't have any buyer's remorse later on. 1) Vacuum the Interior and Wash the Exterior A clean car gets traded in for top dollar. Nobody wants a vehicle covered in crumbs and dirt. So, make sure to vacuum the interior and wash the exterior before taking your car to the dealership. 2) Get an Oil Change This one is important. If your car's due for an oil change or is already past due, get one as soon as possible. It'll improve your car's performance and show potential buyers that you've taken good care of your vehicle. 3) Remove All Maintenance Paperwork The dealership always gives you a booklet with all the maintenance history inside during all car maintenance and servicing work. Remember to record all maintenance history and present it to the buyer before trading in your car. The new owner will want to see it. 4) Take Out All Personal Belongings This should be a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised at how often people forget to do this. Before taking your car in, remove all personal belongings such as clothes, books, toys, etc. You don't want the new owner going through your stuff! 5) Consider Getting Your Car Detailed Consider extensive car detailing before taking it in for trade if you have the resources. This will help make your vehicle look its best and add a few hundred dollars to the value. 6) Know Your Car's Trade-In Value Do your research before trading in your car. Consult a reliable dealership to get an accurate estimate of what your car is worth. This way, you can ensure you're getting a fair deal. 7) Be Prepared to Negotiate Remember that the initial offer from the dealership is usually just a starting point for negotiation. If you're not happy with their offer, don't be afraid to counter or walk away from the deal. 8) Bring Any Relevant Documentation While trading, don't forget to bring relevant documentation such as the title, registration, and maintenance records. The dealership will need to see these before they can finalize the deal. York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ, has the perfect solution if you want to trade in your old vehicle for a new one. Our expert teams give your car a thorough inspection and an accurate value to get the most out of your trade-in. Schedule a service appointment today and see how much money you can save on your next vehicle purchase.

Are you one of those people who can't resist jumping in the car and hitting the open road when they get the chance to go on a road trip? If so, you're not alone. According to a recent research survey by Expedia, 88 percent of Americans say they enjoy taking road trips. And there's a good reason for that. There's just something about packing up the car and setting off on an adventure that's incredibly liberating and exhilarating. But if you have never taken a road trip before, it can be tricky to know what to do. So today, we will give you a beginner's guide to taking your first road trip from your car's perspective. Don't forget to bring your vehicle to York Dodge for a quick car checkup. Keep reading for all of our best tips! Performa a Visual Check Before embarking on any road trip, the first thing you should do is to give your car a thorough visual inspection. Look for things that feel unusual or broken, and make sure all fluids like oil and coolant are at healthy levels. Even the slightest issue with your car can become a big problem on the open road, so staying vigilant is essential. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks Once you've completed a visual check of your car, your next step is to undertake regular car maintenance checks at least every few months. These will help you identify any issues early on and prevent them from becoming more significant problems down the line. Some key areas to focus on include tire pressure, engine performance, and overall fluid levels. Getting a Regular Tune-Up Another critical step to keep in mind is getting regular car tune-ups. These tend to be scheduled at around the time when your car will reach certain mileage milestones, such as every 15,000 or 20,000 miles. During these tune-ups, a professional mechanic can help you identify any issues with your vehicle and make sure everything is running smoothly. This helps ensure that you'll have a safe and worry-free road trip when it's finally time to hit the open road. Check Car Battery and Wiring Among common car problems is a weak or dead battery. It's always good to check your car's battery and wiring before embarking on a road trip. If you're unsure about how to manage this, you can always take it to a professional mechanic to have them give it a look. Clean Your Car Another way to prepare for a road trip is to clean out your car. This includes getting rid of any trash that has accumulated over time and anything else that may be taking up space needlessly. This will help you have more room for things like snacks and luggage, and it also helps keep your car organized and tidy. So, there it is – a beginner's guide to road trips in great America. We hope you take advantage of everything our excellent condition offers and visit York Dodge soon! Check out our website or call us at the number listed above to schedule your next service appointment. We serve Prescott, AZ, and nearby places. Thanks for reading, and happy travels!

When most people think about their car overheating, the first thing that comes to mind is a traffic jam on a sizzling summer day. However, there are other reasons your car may overheat when it's idling. And counting on the severity could be a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. To help you better comprehend why this might be happening, York Dodge will outline some of the most common causes of car overheating when idling. Car Overheating: What Is It? Before getting into why your car might overheat when idling, it's essential to understand what overheating is. In short, overheating occurs when your car's engine gets too hot. Various factors can push this, but it typically happens when the cooling system isn't working correctly. There are two types of overheating: Gradual Overheat Sudden Overheat Gradual overheating happens slowly over time and is often caused by a leak in the cooling system. On the other hand, sudden overheating usually happens due to an issue with the water pump or fan belt. No matter which overheating you're experiencing, it's essential to take your automobile to a mechanic ASAP to have it checked out. Why's My Car Overheating? There are a few reasons your car may overheat when idling, even if it doesn't happen often. The most well-known reason is that your car's cooling system isn't working correctly. This could be due to various issues, such as a leak in the radiator or a problem with the water pump. It's best to have a local mechanic check it out as soon as possible to determine the cause. Another possibility is that your car's fan belt is loose or damaged. The fan belt is responsible for powering the radiator fan, which helps keep the engine cool. If the belt is loose, it may not be able to do its job correctly, causing the engine to overheat. In some cases, overheating can be caused by a clogged air filter. When the air filter is clogged, it doesn't allow enough air to circulate through the engine, causing it to overheat. Thermostat problems are also a common cause of overheating. The thermostat is responsible for regulating the engine's temperature, and if it's not working correctly, the engine can overheat. Another potential issue is a leaking head gasket. The head gasket seals the engine block and prevents coolant from leaking. Coolant can leak out if damaged or blown, causing the engine to overheat. What Should I Do? If your ride is overheating, it's essential to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. These are just some of the probable causes of the problem. Only a professional will be able to diagnose and fix the issue properly. This is where York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ, comes in. Our team of skilled mechanics is here to help, so don't hesitate to bring your vehicle in for service. We'll get to the bottom of your engine overheating problem and have you back on the road in no time. Schedule a service appointment today!

To get the most out of your car, it's essential to be familiar with its trim level. Trim levels can affect everything from performance to fuel economy. While all car owners should know their vehicle's trim level, Dodge owners, in particular, have good reason to be familiar with theirs. In this blog post, our experts from York Dodge will discuss the benefits of knowing your Dodge's trim level and advise how best to take advantage of them. So, whether you're a first-time Dodge owner or want to learn more about what your car can do, keep reading! Dodge vehicles come in various trims, each designed for a specific purpose. Some trim levels are better for off-road driving, while others are more suited to city travel. Whatever the case, a vehicle trim level offers different benefits. What is a Vehicle Trim Level? When buying a new or used car, it is essential to know the trim level. The trim level is the vehicle model's specific equipment configuration and features. These can include engine size, transmission type, drivetrain, suspension, wheel and tire size, and exterior and interior design features. Selecting the right trim level can save you money and help you get the car that best meets your needs. Benefits of Car Trim Level There are three main reasons why it is beneficial to know the trim level of a vehicle: It can help you save money when buying a new or used car. It can help you select the right vehicle for your needs. It can help you better maintain your vehicle. Buying a New and Used Car If you are in the market for a new or used car, knowing the trim level can help you save money. When negotiating the price of a vehicle, dealers will often time use the trim level to inflate the price. If you know the trim level, you can better negotiate the cost of the vehicle. Knowing the trim level can help you narrow down your search to only those cars with the features and equipment you want. This can save you time and money searching for a used car. Selecting The Right Car There are many different trim levels of Dodge cars. The following is a list of some of the most popular Dodge models and their trim levels: -Dodge Challenger- SXT, RT, Scat Pack, Hellcat -Dodge Charger- SE, SXT, R/T, Daytona, Hellcat -Dodge Dart- SE, Aero, GT -Dodge Durango- SXT, Citadel, R/T -Dodge Grand Caravan- SE, SXT, RT -Dodge Journey- SE, Crossroad, RT Knowing the different trim levels is essential if you're in the market for a new car. York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ, can help! We have a wide selection of Dodge models with various trim levels, and our team is here to answer any questions you may have about the different trim levels. See us today, and we'll help you find the perfect car for your needs.

As a car owner, it's essential to be aware of the perks spark plugs offer and how often you should change them. Spark plugs play a crucial role in engine performance, fuel economy, and emission levels. They are responsible for igniting the air-fuel mixture in your cylinders, so it's important to have healthy spark plugs installed in your vehicle. If you're not sure whether or not you need to change your spark plugs, check out this blog post for more information. We'll discuss the benefits of spark plugs and provide some tips on determining when it's time for a tune-up. What a Bad Spark Plugs Looks Like: What once was a shiny, new set of spark plugs eventually will become dull, fouled, and damaged. Over time, the spark plug's tip will wear down from the heat and electrical wear-and-tear. It can cause the spark plug to fire erratically or not at all. When this happens, your car will start showing some problems. It's important to address them immediately to avoid further damage to your engine. Problems Caused by a Fouled Spark Plug: If you're observing any of the following issues, you likely have a fouled spark plug: Difficulty starting your engine Reduced fuel economy Poor engine performance Misfiring cylinders You must consider changing your spark plugs if any or all of these signs prevail. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of changing your spark plugs. The Benefits of Changing Your Spark Plugs: When your car starts choking and sputtering, it's easy to get frustrated. However, changing your spark plugs can make a world of difference. Here are some benefits of changing your spark plugs: Enhanced Engine Performance The engine is a hard working component of your car and needs some care to function properly. Over time, when the spark plugs become fouled, it can cause your engine to misfire. It means the spark plugs are no longer correctly igniting the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. As a result, to generate the power you require, your engine has to work harder. Once the spark plugs are replaced, your car feels more responsive and has better acceleration. Improved Fuel Economy No one likes wasting money, and that's precisely what happens when you have spark plugs with buildup. When the mixture isn't burning correctly, your car has to use more fuel to compensate for the loss in power. In fact, if your spark plugs are severely clogged, you might lose as much as 30% of your gas mileage. If you're interested in saving some money (well, of course, you are!), consider changing your spark plugs. You'll see a significant difference in your gas tank. A Lot Less Emissions The world is becoming increasingly more aware of the dangers of emissions. Vehicles are a significant contributor to pollution, but you can do your part in reducing emissions by keeping up with your car's maintenance. Fouled spark plugs are a major cause of increased emissions. When the air-fuel mixture isn't burning correctly, it causes your car to produce more carbon dioxide and other pollutants. In addition to being harmful for the environment, these emissions can also be harmful to your health. When Should You Change Your Spark Plugs? Most carmakers recommend changing your spark plugs every 20,000 miles or so. However, this number will differ depending on the make and model of your car. For example, some luxury vehicles can go up to 100,000 miles before needing new spark plugs. Bottom Line: While most car owners prefer dealing with car repairs, some go one step further by switching to a newer model. If you belong to the latter category, you must check our expansive inventory of new and used cars at York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ. Contact us today and let one of our experienced sales associates help you find the perfect car for your needs!

People are drawn to hybrid cars’ fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. But what about the tires? How long do they last, and what should you do when it's time for a new set? In this blog post, we’re going to answer all of your questions about hybrid car tires! How Long Do Hybrid Car Tires Last? The answer is dependent on several factors; however, most hybrid car tires will last anywhere from 40,000 to 70,000 miles. This is a fairly wide range, but it's important to remember that your driving habits and the type of hybrid car you own play a role in how long your tires will last. For example, if you drive a lot of short trips, your tires will wear down more quickly than if you take long trips. Likewise, if you own a hybrid car that is heavier or has a higher horsepower, your tires will wear down at a faster rate. How To Tell If My Tires Need To Be Replaced? A few signs that your tires need to be replaced include uneven tread wear, a bulge or bubble in the tire, and excessive squeaking when you brake. If you're not sure whether it's time for a new set of tires, have them inspected by a professional. If you change all four tires simultaneously, it ensures even wear and extends the life of your new tires. When it comes to hybrid car tires, it's important to choose a quality brand that will provide long-lasting performance. What Are Some Of The Best Hybrid Tire Brands? Some of our favorite brands include Michelin, Continental, and Pirelli. Do your research first before you buy, as different hybrids require specific types of tires. How Much Does It Cost To Replace Hybrid Car Tires? The cost of replacing hybrid car tires will vary depending on the type of tire, the brand, and where you live. However, you may spend anywhere from $500-$800 for new tires. Is It Necessary To Replace Hybrid Car Tires Every Time They Wear Out? No - not necessarily. If your hybrid car is still under warranty, the manufacturer may recommend that you take it to a dealership for replacement. However, if your vehicle is out of warranty or you'd prefer to do the work yourself, you can replace the tires at home. A Few Tips On Changing Hybrid Tires Be sure to use the correct jack and lug wrench for your car. If you're not comfortable changing tires, have a professional do it for you. Ensure that the spare tire is properly inflated and in good condition before using it. When Should You Replace Hybrid Car Tires? Replacing your hybrid car's tires at the manufacturer's recommended interval is important for your vehicle's safety and longevity. If they are worn or damaged, don't wait until the next scheduled replacement - replace them immediately. Hybrid cars are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people make the switch to fuel-efficient vehicles. At York Dodge serving Prescott, AZ, we offer tire service to our customers. You can schedule it online. If your car needs tire replacement, you can use our tire finder now!

If you're like most individuals, you assumably use your smartphone for many things – checking email, skimming the internet, watching videos, and listening to music, just to name a few. But what do you do when you want to use your phone in your car? Do you hold it up to your face and try to see the screen over the steering wheel? Or do you try to balance it on your lap while you drive? If so, you're doing it wrong! There's an easier way to use your phone in the car – Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. But which one should you use? Let's take a peek at the attributes of both with York Dodge. User Interface The first thing you'll notice about Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is the difference in the user interface. Android Auto uses Google Maps for its navigation, while Apple CarPlay uses Apple Maps. Google Maps is a more comprehensive mapping solution, with real-time traffic updates, street view, and public transit directions. On the other hand, Apple Maps is a simpler mapping solution that doesn't offer as many features like Google Maps. However, it does integrate with Siri, so you can use voice commands to get directions or find points of interest. App Support Another big difference between Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is the app support. Android Auto has a lot more apps available compared to Apple CarPlay. Some of the popular apps available on Android Auto include Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, Pandora, WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, and Twitter. On the other hand, Apple CarPlay only has a handful of apps available, including Apple Maps, Spotify, Pandora, WhatsApp, Skype, and iMessage. Music Features When it comes to music, both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have a lot of features in common. Both platforms allow you to control the music playback with voice commands and see song information and artist bios. They also both support audio streaming services like Spotify and Pandora. However, there are a few dissimilarities when it comes to music. Android Auto supports Google Play Music, while Apple CarPlay supports Apple Music. Android Auto allows you to connect your phone to the car's Bluetooth audio system. So, you can play music from your phone's library, while Apple CarPlay does not. Price Finally, Android Auto is the cheaper option when it comes to price. Many Android phones come with Android Auto pre-installed, while you have to pay an annual subscription fee for Apple CarPlay. The Verdict So, which one should you use? Android Auto or Apple CarPlay? The answer is… it depends. If your car already has a built-in touchscreen display, then Android Auto is probably the better option for you. But if you don't have a built-in display or want to keep your existing stereo system, then Apple CarPlay might be a better choice. Whatever option you choose, York Dodge can help get it set up for you. We offer OEM accessories & parts upgrades in Prescott, AZ, so call us today and let us know how we can help make using your smartphone in the car easier – and safer – for you!

Here's the scenario: you've just purchased a new(er) car and are eager to make some upgrades to increase its value before you sell it. But where do you start? With so many aftermarket car mods available, it can be tough to know which ones will give you the biggest return on investment. In this post, York Dodge will outline a few of our favorite custom mods to add to your shopping cart in order to boost your car's resale value. Keep reading for tips on how to make your ride stand out from the crowd! 1. Install A New Navigation System If your car didn't come equipped with a built-in navigation system, now is the time to invest in one. Not only will this make your car more attractive to buyers, but it will also increase its resale value. A quality navigation system can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000, but it's worth the investment if you're looking to get top dollar for your car. 2. Get A New Paint Job A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for a car's appearance and resale value. If you're planning to sell your car in the near future, we recommend opting for a neutral color like white or black. These colors are always in demand will help your car stand out from the rest. 3. Invest In New Tires Old, worn-out tires are a major turnoff for potential buyers. If your car is in need of new tires, we recommend investing in a quality set before putting it on the market. This simple upgrade can make a big difference in how much your car is worth. 4. Upgrade The Braking Unit If your car has a braking unit that's more than a few years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Upgraded braking units are not only safer, but they can also add value to your car when it comes time to sell. 5. Add Custom Rims One of the easiest and most popular ways to increase a car's value is by adding some custom rims. This simple modification can make your car look much more expensive and can help it stand out from the competition. 6. Install A New Stereo System A new stereo system is a great way to improve your car's sound quality and resale value. Choose a system that's high-quality and fits well with the rest of your car's interior. 7. Upgrade Your Engine If you're looking to really increase your car's value, consider upgrading its engine. This can be a costly modification, but it can be well worth it in the long run. Choose a powerful engine that will make your car stand out from the pack. 8. Add Custom Bodywork If you're looking for a more extreme modification, consider adding some custom bodywork to your car. This can be a great way to make your car look unique and eye-catching. Just be sure to choose a style that will appeal to buyers when it comes time to sell. Get Your Ride Modified with York Dodge So, what custom mods should you add to your cart to increase the value of your car? The answer may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but these few suggestions are sure to give it some extra pop. Check out our parts inventory and see for yourself how we can help you take your car from ordinary to extraordinary. York Dodge is the go-to source for car mod experts in Prescott, AZ – so come talk to us today!

If you're the proud owner of a black car, then you know that keeping it clean is a full-time job. No other color shows dirt and dust like black does, so if you want to keep your car looking good, you need to have the proper auto cleaning tools and products on hand. So, for newbie black car owners, York Dodge willgo over the top 10 car cleaning items you have to include in your kit to maintain your black car's appearance in this blog post. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in! 1. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner This is a must-have for any black car owner, as black fabric shows dirt and dust the most. Make sure to get a carpet and upholstery cleaner that’s designed for cars, as regular household cleaners can damage the fabric or leather on your seats. 2. Glass Cleaner A black car with dirty glass looks awful. Again, make sure to get a glass cleaner that’s made specifically for cars, as regular household cleaners can damage the tint on your windows. 3. Tire and Wheel Cleaner Black chromed rims are beautiful and elegant, but they can also be a pain to keep clean. A good tire and wheel cleaner will help remove brake dust and other grime from your wheels and keep them looking shiny and new. 4. Car Wax Wax is essential for any car owner, but it's crucial for black cars. Wax helps protect your paint from dirt, UV rays, and water spots. It also makes your car's paint look deep and glossy. Just make sure that you use a wax made for black paint, as some waxes can actually cause your paint to look dull. 5. Microfiber Towels You’ll need plenty of soft, microfiber towels for washing and drying your black car. Microfiber is gentle on paint and won’t scratch it as regular towels can. 6. Car Polish If your black car's paint looks dull or faded, you may need to use a polish to restore the shine every now and then. Be sure to use a polish made specifically for black cars. Other polishes can contain harsh chemicals that can damage the paint. 7. Detailing Clay Detailing clay is a great way to save your glossy black car color if it's starting to show some symptoms of wear and tear. Clay can remove all the built-up grime, dirt, and debris that regular washing can't get rid of. How Do I Keep a Black Car Clean with A Regular Waxing or Ceramic Coating? To keep the paint looking glossy and new, a black car needs to be waxed or get a ceramic coating at least every 3 to 6 months. Trust us, waxing will help protect the paint from fading and becoming dull. The ceramic coating will create an extra layer of protection that can help resist scratches and chips. Just be sure to use a wax or coating made explicitly for black cars, as other products may not be as effective. Let The Experts From York Dodge Help You Out Owning a black car is a unique experience. While it's certainly beautiful and sleek, it requires a bit more upkeep than other colors. That's why we shared this list of seven must-have items for cleaning your black car. If you have any questions about car cleaning products or want to schedule a service appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at York Dodge, serving in Prescott, AZ. Thanks for reading!

During the spring season, it's important to ensure your car is properly taken care of. One way to do that is by ensuring you keep an eye on the essential fluids. These fluids help keep your car functioning properly and prevent costly repairs later in the future. This post will discuss five essential fluids that should be on your radar during the spring season. 1) Engine Oil One of the most vital fluids for your car is engine oil. Engine oil helps lubricate all the moving parts in your engine and keeps it running smoothly. It also helps safeguard your engine from wear and tear. During spring, it's important to ensure you have enough engine oil to help keep your car functioning properly. You should check your engine oil level at least once a month and top it off as needed. If you can't check your engine oil or add more if necessary, consult your car's owner's manual. It should show you the process step-by-step. Be sure to use the type of engine oil recommended by your car's manufacturer. 2) Coolant Another fluid you'll want to keep an eye on during spring is your coolant level. Coolant helps keep your engine from overheating by transferring heat away from the engine block. It's important to maintain the proper mix of water and coolant in your system. If your coolant level is low, add more until it reaches the "full" line on the reservoir. 3) Brake Fluid Your brake fluid is another important fluid to keep an eye on. The level should be between the "minimum" and "maximum" lines on the reservoir. If it's low, add more brake fluid until it reaches those marks. Be sure to use only DOT-approved brake fluid. If your car has been sitting idle for a while, it's a good idea to check your brake fluid levels before taking it out on the road. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air, leading to corrosion and decreased performance. 4) Windshield Washer Fluid Your windshield washer fluid is what keeps your windshield clean and streak-free. It's important to keep the fluid level topped off, especially during the spring and summer when bugs are more prevalent. Different types of windshield washer fluid are available: standard, de-icer, and all-season. Standard washer fluid is good for most driving conditions, while de-icer is designed to help remove ice and snow from your windshield. All-season fluid is a mix of the two and can be used year-round. 5) Transmission Fluid Just like your engine oil, your car's transmission fluid needs to be changed regularly to keep things running steadily. Your transmission shifts the power from your engine to the wheels, so it must have enough fluid to do its job properly. Depending on your car, you may need to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 or 60,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for specifics. And that's it! By keeping an eye on these five fluids, you can help ensure your car is running smoothly all spring long. Have any questions? Stop by our dealership service center at York Dodge, serving Prescott, AZ, and our experienced car technicians will be happy to help. Schedule an appointment today.

Today, York Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM, your reputed CDJR auto dealership serving Prescott, AZ, will dispense with high school electrical basics to explain an auto short circuit. An electric charge takes a path of least resistance, but we forget that this 'least resistance' means the shortest path. When a wire gets frayed, meets another metal surface, or a bare connector, charges get shunted from their original paths to the shortest route as a ground or power short circuit. What An Electrical Short Manifests As? You can look for seven things to help you sense a short or an electrical problem: a burnt plastic scent in the car's cockpit the electrical fault light turns on your car has a problematic ignition or a dead self your car's electronic functions start to falter your car battery is draining too fast fused solder on the car's ECU circuits frayed & crossing wires in the car's engine unit Where Does an Electrical Short Occur? It can be any electrical component in the car's engine bay or the ECU's wiring itself that is causing a short. Most electrical failures occur due to slacking aftermarket accessory installation by an unauthorized auto technician. How Does a Short Damage My Car? Your car's electricals have many wires of varying resistances & amperage. If a short occurs, the sudden drain of charge might be going through a high resistance component wire, dissipating heat, and burning the component. Electrical fires also start that way. If it's a ground short, your battery is draining faster than usual, but your car's fuse box will contain the issue by blowing a fuse. How Do You Find an Electrical Short? The first indication is that your car's warning lights indicate an electrical fault. That's the time to stop your car, get the tools, and get your hands dirty. You should start by checking whether your car is starting, whether it smells of burnt plastic if the battery is charged, and whether it stalls when you put it in park, without any history of engine problems. If you don’t already have one, visit a hardware store to purchase an automotive diagnostic (ATD) tool. It resembles a screwdriver tester, but it has a wired clip on one end. Remove the car's battery's negative connector and attach the ATD tool's clip to the connector. Touch the tester to the positive terminal. If there is an electrical short, the tester will light up. Locate the fuse box in the engine bay and, using a pair of layman's pliers, begin pulling and putting back the fuses one by one until the bulb goes out. The fuse code will tell you which circuit is faulty from which fuse the bulb turns off. If your dashboard electronics, headlights, wipers, or some other minor components are shorted, you may be able to get to York Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM ASE-certified auto technicians on time; before an electrical fire fries your systems. Serving Prescott, AZ, we have the latest CDJR vehicles, complete with financing & pre-approval options, and a fully loaded service center & trade-in assistance. If your car has an electrical short circuit, schedule with us for a service. If you need roadside assistance, contact us today!