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    Call or Text Mike Love
    By Appointment Only(757) 560-4252
    Fax (757) 277-7320
    mike@tmauto.com
  • T M Auto Wholesalers, LLC, Auto Dealers Used Cars & Trucks, Chesapeake, VA

    • Driver Comfort

    Automobile Maintenance Advantages 101

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    HOW WELL DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR CAR? 

    Ok, so you keep your car shiny and clean inside and out, congratulations you’re doing a great job! How about your car’s mechanical maintenance? Looks can be deceiving… You know the great looking car with the new tires, wheels, and shiny paint? The one that smokes and rattles like the engine is falling out lol? That scenario is more common than you think! I mean let’s face it, soap and water is cheaper than the parts and services associated with regularly scheduled maintenance, especially on newer cars. As a result, some folks just let it go until they’re driving junk! We have to assume most of them have no idea the benefits that keeping their car in shape offers. Think of your car as a living breathing form of transportation, like say around the 19th century. If you didn’t maintain your horse and keep it in good shape, you were walking. Things haven’t changed a bit, neglect your car and well, get to stepping!  

     

    DOING MAINTENANCE

    If you’re one of the discerning car owners who don’t wish to take a college course on automobile maintenance, join the crowd! Many car owners just don’t care about how it’s done as long as it gets done. That’s why we have professionals that do care and wan’t the best for your car just like you. Find one in your area with great reviews and give them a shout. Text or call me for a recommendation if you’re not sure, glad to help. 

    For those hybrid greasers out there who don’t mind getting their hands dirty to save some cash, check out my article on maintenance schedules Secret To Max Car Performance and Life. 

     

    “Whether you’re a DIY owner or reliant on your favorite service department, you should know the following benefits of regular car maintenance.” ~ Mike Love 

     

    BENEFITS OF CAR MAINTENANCE 

    Why is keeping your car mechanically on it’s game so important? The list is long and there are some benefits more important than others, but here are six good ones to begin with. 

     

    01. Dependability

    One of the major advantages of car maintenance is the reliability of the car to go from any place to another with the utmost convenience. The performance of the car is assured with regular maintenance and occasionally a checkup from a seasoned pro even if you’re a DIY car owner.

    02. Resale 

    For all vehicles, resale value is a major consideration. After a while, people want to replace their existing vehicle with a new one, they just do. One of the key aspects of a good resale is a vehicle’s overall performance. The properly maintained car has 20 to 30 percent more value than an average vehicle. Worth it…

    03. Low repair costs

    For any kind of vehicle, maintenance cost is a very important aspect. Keeping in mind that the replacement cost of an important car part is high. Parts replacement costs can be dramatically reduced by performing proper maintenance. It’s a simple fact that if it doesn’t wear out, it doesn’t need replacing. Keeping everything in good repair wins every time. 

    04. Better fuel efficiency

    With proper maintenance, you can boost your fuel performance to a new level. Maintaining correct air pressure in tires equates to fuel savings. For every 10 psi of under-inflation, a 10% reduction in fuel economy can result, according to NACFE. 

    Too little or too much engine oil can create more friction and rob power. Clean oil lubricates better than dirty oil, so pay attention to oil change intervals. Explore the use of lower-viscosity oils to improve fuel economy.

    A restricted air intake system (air filter, air cooler, and tubing) or exhaust system will decrease engine power output. Check components at regular PMs and fix any leaks. These leaks can be particularly hard to find, as leaking air is not as noticeable as fuel or oil, but their repair will improve engine operation and fuel efficiency. I could dedicate an entire blog to just this maintenance advantage! 

    05. Safety

    Because our lives may depend on car performance, don’t take unnecessary chances. System failure can be avoided largely through maintenance. Rear brake lights, brakes, brake warning lights on your dashboard, lack of brake fluid are all extremely dangerous system failures that can be life threatening. 

    Over-inflated tires, Under-inflated tires, Punctured or damaged tires, valve stem damage, and Worn down or bald tires are all capable of causing an accident. 

    Headlights, taillights, and turn signals are all essential to your safety while driving. 

    06. Longevity 

    In many cases, it may be too late for your engine when it starts to overheat or begins leaking coolant on a hot summer day. It’s best to have your coolant system serviced by the pros. Frequent fluid top-ups will help keep your engine cool and reduce stress on your car’s heater and air conditioner. A belt check along with replacing coolant fluids will help improve the life of the vehicle’s engine and will give you a heads-up should there be an underlying problem with the vehicle’s radiator or thermostat.

     

    While tire suspension and care are the main priority, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment for an auto transmission servicing and a front and rear differential inspection. A good service should provide:

     

    • A complete tire inspection including rotation and balancing
    • Replacement of a dirty air and fuel filter
    • Power steering fluid exchange
    • Inspection of the transfer case
    • Differential and trans-axle servicing
    • A transmission fluid exchange

     

    The advantages of keeping your vehicle well maintained are too many to mention, but if they were only those above it would be well worth it! Let me know if you have any questions, always happy to help. 

    Call or text (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love, I have answers. 

    TM Auto Wholesalers, Chesapeake Va

     

     

    Sources:

    Lockridge, Deborah “8 steps to better MPG through maintenance” TRUCKINGINFO.COM June 20th, 2016 Web. Retrieved from:

    https://www.truckinginfo.com/156794/8-steps-to-better-mpg-through-maintenance#:~:text=Maintaining%20correct%20air%20pressure%20in,can%20result%2C%20according%20to%20NACFE.&text=%E2%80%9CThe%20biggest%20thing%20we%20do,3. 

     

    Staff “How Routine Maintenance Improves Vehicle Longevity” MRCLEANCARWASH.COM Retrieved from:

    https://www.mrcleancarwash.com/blog/how-routine-maintenance-improves-vehicle-longevity

     

    Beckman, Viles “Does Vehicle Maintenance Affect Road Safety” VILESANDBECKMAN.COM February 20th, 2019 Web. Retrieved from:

    https://www.vilesandbeckman.com/does-vehicle-maintenance-affect-road-safety/#:~:text=Brake%20Failure%20Can%20Cause%20Accidents,car%20before%20a%20collision%20occurs.&text=Brake%20warning%20lights%20on%20the%20dashboard

    Memoirs of a Clean Car

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    WHAT WOULD YOUR CAR SAY ABOUT YOU IN IT’S MEMOIRS?

    You love your shiny new car with all it’s cool features and it’s exactly what you want… for now.  Hey, don’t shoot the messenger, that’s just the life of a car. One day your eyes will start to wander and BAM, you’re shopping for another, newer, shinier, one with cooler features. That for sale sign hits the windshield and well, you know the rest. 

    So what would your car say about you to its new owner? “The years have been kind to me, haven’t they!” or “I’ve definitely seen better days” Guess what, it tells others all about you every day with its appearance! Your car’s condition is a reflection of you whether you like it or not. The dude in the beater with the bald tires… sketchy. Hey, the dude could be a prince but THAT CAR, the car didn’t give him a chance. Love your car and it will love you back! It’s all up to you which way this goes. If you’re hoping for a good return on your investment, best keep that car looking young!

    That’s right, there are some sweet benefits to keeping your car young. Besides resale, though it’s certainly at the top, did you know that a clean car can make you happier? You might, but did you also know that a dirty car can get less gas mileage? Maybe not and there’s more, read on! 

     

    1. LONGER VEHICLE LIFE

    By waxing your car, you are keeping the paint job in good shape. The natural deposits of dirt and salt that you gather from driving will corrode the body of your vehicle over time. The benefits of cleanliness extend to the engine, where a regular wipe down can prevent damage from buildup of debris. Check out how to wash and polish your car for tips on how to do it right.

     

    1. BETTER MENTAL HEALTH

    You spend a lot of hours inside your car. If that environment is clean, you can feel more focused and organized. Most people are happier if they keep neat living areas in their houses; the same is true for that vehicle where you may meditate or contemplate your days to and from work.

     

    1. SAFER DRIVING

    Visibility is a key to accident prevention. What detracts from your visibility? Dirty windows and rear-view mirrors. If you keep them clean, you can better evaluate what’s going on around you. Plus, clean headlights lead to maximum illumination, a must for driving at night or in inclement weather.

     

    1. BETTER PHYSICAL HEALTH

    Think of the dirt that’s probably built up inside your car. Even if you are a tidy person, there’s probably bacteria on the hard surfaces. That’s not to mention dust and residue on the seats and flooring. It can lead to poor air quality, aggravating people with allergies or breathing problems.

     

    1. IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY

    A layer of dirt actually makes your engine work harder. That’s because it increases drag on the vehicle. Your fuel economy goes down, therefore, if you don’t regularly wash the exterior of your vehicle. Reduced fuel economy means that a dirty car is money out of your pocket.

     

    1. PERSONAL PRIDE

    Your car may or may not be a status symbol, but it is an accessory with which you are regularly associated. You want your car to reflect the same pride you feel with your personal appearance. After all, you probably spent quite a bit of time thinking about the make, model and color of the vehicle before you bought it — why not keep it looking its best?

     

    1. SPARKING JOY

    You may have heard this phrase as connected with organizer Marie Kondo. You can certainly use the KonMari method to declutter your car, but instead of joy, look at it as utility. Ask yourself, of all the things you keep in your vehicle, “is this necessary?” Removing some of the extra weight will not only improve your sense of well being, but reduce the number of pounds your car’s engine has to work to drag around.

     

    IT WORKS

     

    I’ve personally experienced some of the benefits on that list by keeping my cars clean, and that’s no easy task with a large family like mine! Each of my in-stock vehicles is detailed prior to delivery for one final inspection. Hearing “Wow, the years have been good to this one” is the best 🙂

    Keeping Your Car Young part 2 “Advantages of keeping your car mechanically in its prime!” on July 31st

     

    Have questions? Call or text Mike Love (757) 560-4252, I have answers! 

    TM Auto Wholesalers, Chesapeake Va

     

     

    Sources: Staff “Hidden benefits of a clean car” www.goldeagle.com July 14, 2020 Web. Retrieved from:  https://www.goldeagle.com/tips-tools/hidden-benefits-clean-car/

    Oh the places you will go!

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    Finally! The sun is out, and the road to Summer vacation is calling your name. It’s time for a brand new adventure. A weekend in the woods, a day at the beach, a cross-country road trip or just a trip to the store can be exciting with the right set of wheels. 

     

    The Road is Calling Your Name

     

    A weekend drive along the coast with the top down could be an epic experience in a sporty BMW Z-4 convertible or 427 Ford Mustang Convertible or the more adventurous 4dr Jeep Grand Cherokee with climbing power, just depends on your cargo! Your kids and your family dog may squeeze into your current mode of transportation, but if you’re serious about beaching it, you need more.

     

    It’s no news that these cars are ideal for summer travel, highlights to seal the deal for die-hard DRIVERS.

     

    *Four-wheel-drive jeeps provide total beach access to FUN!

    *Going topless, there’s nothing quite like it in a Jeep OR Sports Car

    *Only enough room for two in your sports car, this is a good thing!

    *Jeep Cherokee offers the advantages of an ultimate adventure mobile with added luxury for long trips 

    *Most jeeps have a reasonably low base price so a used Jeep Wrangler or even a Rubicon are feasible options!

    *If you’ve never driven a convertible classic like the 1968 Chevrolet Camaro then call me, it’s an experience everyone should have 

    *5-6 speed manual transmission puts you in control of every peak and valley

    *Sunroof and T-tops are standard options, awesome for sunny days and starry nights

    *Bose, Infinity, & Blauplunkt sound systems are the norm, a necessity for cruising

    *Most handle athletically for speedy turns, yet have comfortable interiors for long trips

    *All the luxury options that you want, AC and power everything are usually standard

     

    A weekend jaunt to the woods with all your gear begs for a roomy Ford Explorer or if you need more cargo room AND four doors then this loaded 2012 Ford F-150 will do the job perfectly! A few hours in most cars are doable, but for a family excursion along the coast or to the mountains, your time at the wheel is much more of a consideration. Make it count from driveway to journey’s end.

    Road hugging, sporty, and fast or off-road adventurous driving, these vehicles welcome the challenge. Two door coupes and convertibles or four door, four wheel drive SUVs and trucks, fun awaits!

     

    Think About Which Car is Right for YOU

    You may not always have the need for speed and adventure but when you do… nothing satisfies better than putting some distance between you and home. See TM Auto’s inventory

    Wherever the journey takes you, make every mile a memory. Your journey begins and ends with transportation and your ride can make or break the experience. Buy your vehicle with your journey in mind and you’ll never regret it. Sure, we all have a need for our daily driver, a trusty shuttle is essential. However, traveling in these can be great or not so great, depending on where you’re going and who’s tagging along. When selecting your car, it’s smart to look at the bigger picture. Whether you’re planning a perfect family beach day or a weekend camping trip, how you get to the promised land is important. Having the right vehicle for the occasion is vital so the journey is as memorable as the destination itself.

    Every family, big and small, has different needs. There are plenty of makes and models to go around and one to fit every lifestyle and budget. Whatever your adventure and whichever vehicle you prefer, let me help you get there!  Please browse my website and See TM Auto’s Inventory. Choose from a wide variety of used vehicles.

    If you don’t see what you’re looking for, I can find it for you! I’m always available to answer your questions, feel free to text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love.

    Make your old car new again!

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    Make Your Old Car Like New Again

    Look out your window, and you’ll see Ole’ Reliable sitting in the driveway. The car that’s been with you for years now and still (mostly) runs great. Maybe you bought it new, used, or maybe it’s a relative’s old car. As nice as a brand new car might sound, those car payments…. Fortunately, here are a few things you can do to make your old car seem new! These tips and inexpensive fixes will get your old vehicle looking and feeling like it just rolled off the lot.

    1. Cosmetic Fixes

    The most obvious cosmetic upgrade to your car may be painting it, but the easiest upgrade to make an old car feel new is a nice, thorough cleaning. Not just a vacuum and a car wash. To really spruce up your car, try checking off this list:

    • Shampoo carpet and upholstery
    • Clear out the trunk trash
    • Clean outside and inside of windows.
    • Remove the spare and clean out the tire well
    • Remove and clean under seat cushions. Consider getting cushions covers to make your life easier in the future.
    • Clean off floor mats or replace them with rubber floor mats, which are far more durable than most original versions.

    A high quality professional detail is the way to get the outside of your car looking new again. Waxing and buffing can easily make old paint look new! If you really want to clean your car up, consider getting the engine compartment pressure washed as well. Your engine will look new again; it’s pretty amazing. Before going on the lot, all of the cars in my inventory are professionally detailed. I’ve used Gary, owner of Liquid Investments for years. He and his team do an excellent job for a reasonable price. Give him a shout (757) 477-5752.

    After you work your way through a solid cleaning session, you car should already be looking good. If your steering wheel is looking a little beat up as well, you might consider purchasing a steering wheel cover for around $10. Another easy to overlook flaw that makes for a noticeable upgrade is your dashboard. You can add a dashboard cover or even paint it with vinyl paint to make it feel newer, and don’t forget to check the dashboard illumination. If your knobs or switches are broken, replacement parts are cheap whether they are new or recycled.  

    1.            Performance Upgrades

    There are bunches of simple internal, mechanical fixes that can get your car running noticeably smoother and feel more comfortable. Check these major areas and see if they need upgrading: 

    • Headlights. Cars and trucks built over the past few decades typically have plastic headlamps that fog up over time. Headlight restoration is usually less than $30 and instantly makes a difference. A full headlight replacement can add a sporty look to your ride and will cost between $50.00 and $100.00 to do it right. (top vs bottom image)
    • AC. All cars’ AC systems can get mold, mildew, and bacteria build ups if not cleaned often enough. Make sure the air passageways into the vehicle aren’t covered by leaves, dust or grime before changing or cleaning any filters. Adding an air-conditioning deodorizer to the vents or your rearview mirror can bring back that new car smell, too.
    • Rubberizing. As your car ages, the rubber trim on doors begins to wear and tear, letting your hot and cold air out and wind noise and rain in. The adhesive strips take a little patience to apply, but are incredibly cheap and can instantly make the interior of your car quieter while driving.
    • Windshield Wipers. Old wipers break down and lose their effectiveness over time, making driving in the rain and snow dangerous. Upgraded windshield wipers make the cold, rainy seasons a little safer.
    • Brakes & Suspension. Old cars start getting stiffer as the years pass, and brakes get squeakier and squeakier with every red light. Getting your shocks, springs, dampers, struts, brake rotors, and brake pads checked and possibly replaced can completely change how your car drives.

    **New springs can lower your car and improve handling if you’re a car enthusiast!**

    • Wheels. Tires periodically need to be replaced as treads wear down. Use the Penny Test (http://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/penny-tire-test/) to check your car. Even if you don’t need to replace your tires, installing new tires can completely change how your car drives (and looks) and are much cheaper than a new car payment.

    After working your way through these cosmetic upgrades and internal fixes, Ole’ Reliable shouldn’t look quite so old anymore and will be much more reliable! Have questions about these upgrades? Call 757-560-4252 and ask for Mike Love with any questions!

     

    Sources:

    Brown, Evan. “10 Ways to Make Your Used Car Feel New”. esurance. Esurance Insurance Services, Inc. n.d. Web. 1 Nov 2017. http://blog.esurance.com/10-ways-to-make-your-used-car-feel-new/

    Huffman, John Pearley. “10 Ways to Make Your Old Car Feel New”. Popular Mechanics. Hearst Communications, Inc. 26 Sept 2011. Web. 2 Nov 2017. http://www.popularmechanics.com/cars/how-to/g175/10-ways-to-make-your-old-car-feel-new/

    Karim, Andrea. “12 Cheap Ways to Make Your Car Look Awesome”. WiseBread. Wise Bread. 14 Dec 2014. Web. 2 Nov 2017. http://www.wisebread.com/12-cheap-ways-to-make-your-car-look-awesome

    To Grandmother’s House We Go

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    Travel In Comfort This Holiday Season

    The autumn chill has settled and the leaves are changing, bright pops of reds and oranges along the highways. Holidays are just around the corner, and we can all look forward to spending time in our cars, whether it be a short trip to the grocery store for extra stuffing or a long drive to Grandma’s house. The journey is the destination, as they say, and it’s important to keep comfort in mind during these long hours in the car.

     

    Of course, comfort means different things to different people. When you’re looking for a new vehicle, it’s important to keep your specific needs in mind. For example, if you’re headed across state lines with four kids and a dog in tow, your first concern is space and durability. Are you looking for an SUV or a minivan? Would you prefer easy to clean leather seats? Then again, if your family goes all out on decorations, you might consider something with room to store your lights, trees, and figurines, like a pickup truck. But what if you’re looking forward to a romantic holiday of two? Something smaller and sportier might suit your needs. You can keep costs down on your get-away by going for a fuel-efficient option, too.

    With your specific needs in consideration, it’s time to narrow down what exactly you’re looking for in a car — and how much you can afford. Start by creating a checklist of features you prioritize in a vehicle and narrow down your options from there.

    Some things to consider while creating this list might be:

    • Safety Features 
    • 4WD, All-Wheel Drive, 2WD
    • Wheel Base / Leg Room
    • Luxury / Comfort
    • Towing Capacity
    • Fuel Efficiency
    • Reliability
    • Maintenance Costs
    • Price

     

    Once you have your ‘Must Haves’ and a solid budget, it’s time to start looking at cars! Check out TM Auto’s inventory online, and feel free to call 757-560-4252 and ask for Mike Love. I’ll be happy to answer your questions and guide you through your next car purchase.  

    The Best Vehicles for Traveling

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    The Journey Is the Destination

    It’s Summer! The kids are home, the sun is out, and the open road is calling your name. Every day is an opportunity for a brand new adventure. A weekend in the woods, a day at the beach, a cross-country road trip or just a trip to the store, any trip can be exciting with the right set of wheels. 

     

    How will YOU get there?

    TM Auto best vehicles for taveling

     

    A weekend drive along the coast with the windows down could be an epic experience in a sporty Mazda RX-8 or maybe a 4dr Jeep Wrangler with no windows at all, just depends on your cargo! Your kids and your family dog may squeeze into your current mode of transportation, but if you’re serious about beaching it, you need more.

     

    It’s no news that the Jeep Wrangler is ideal for summer travel, highlights to seal the deal for die-hard beach lovers.

     

    • 1. Four-wheel-drive provides total beach access
    • 2. Going topless, there’s nothing quite like it
    • 3. Easy to clean floorboards, just pull the floor plugs and hose it out!
    • 4. Removable doors will turn your Jeep into the ultimate adventure mobile
    • 5. 4dr versions have as much cargo space as any full size sedan
    • 6. Did I mention the windshield folds down? Yes, it does
    • 7. The deal clincher is that most jeeps have a reasonably low base price so a used Jeep Wrangler or even a Rubicon are feasible options!

     

    A weekend jaunt to the woods with all your gear begs for a roomy Ford Explorer or if you’d rather bring just the essentials, a stylish CR-V! A few hours in most cars are doable, but for a family excursion along the coast or to the mountains, your time at the wheel is the destination. Make it count from driveway to journey’s end.

    If low down, sporty, and road hugging are more your speed, then 2dr coupes and convertibles are perfect. Traveling light can be liberating, just you, your favorite travel partner, and loads of curves to navigate!

     

    Think about it while you check out these sporty highlights.

     

    • 1. 5-6 speed manual transmission puts you in control of every peak and valley
    • 2. Sunroof and T-tops are standard options, awesome for sunny days and starry nights
    • 3. Bose, Infinity, & Blauplunkt sound systems are the norm, a necessity for cruising
    • 4. Most handle athletically for speedy turns, yet have comfortable interiors for long trips
    • 5. All the luxury options that you want, AC and power everything are usually standard

    You may not always have the need for speed but when you do… nothing satisfies better than putting some distance between you and home in your own sports car. See TM Auto’s inventory

    Wherever the journey takes you, make every mile a memory. Your journey begins and ends with transportation and your ride can make or break the experience. Buy your vehicle with your journey in mind and you’ll never regret it. Sure, we all have a need for our daily driver, a trusty shuttle is essential. However, traveling in these can be great or not so great, depending on where you’re going and who’s tagging along. When selecting your car, it’s smart to look at the bigger picture. Whether you’re planning a perfect family beach day or a weekend camping trip, how you get to the promised land is important. Having the right vehicle for the occasion is vital so the journey is as memorable as the destination itself.

    Every family, big and small, has different needs. There are plenty of makes and models to go around and one to fit every lifestyle and budget. Whatever your adventure and whichever vehicle you prefer, let me help you get there!  Please browse my website and See TM Auto’s Inventory. Choose from a wide variety of used vehicles.

    If you don’t see what you’re looking for, I can find it for you! I’m always available to answer your questions, feel free to text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love.

    It’s more than a car…

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    For some drivers, a car is simply a way to transport them and their stuff from point A to B. For car lovers… it’s our gleaming, high speed, exoskeleton rocketing us and our families safely through all types of weather to any destination on earth. It’s a classic statement of who we are and the lifestyle we lead. It’s our adventurous side, our badge of expression, our brand. Is it possible that our cars give us an emotional boost when we need it? Absolutely; test-drive your dream car the next time you’re feeling uninspired and brace for euphoria! Sure, we apply a bit of logic to our car search as mature shoppers, but deep down, we want a ride that says… look at me.

     

     

    It’s much more fun to start your search with emotion and forget rationale; practicality stifles our imagination! The perfect car is a great place to begin and then fine-tune your choices with practicality.

     

    What Body Style Do I Want?

    Coupe/Convertible: Convertibles are typically the most expressive and impressive designs. If practicality isn’t on your list… go topless. My inventory has a wide variety including convertibles!

    Sedan: If there are kids in the picture or in the near future, four doors are a likely requirement. Climbing into and out of the back seat for the little ones is tough with just two doors.

    Hatchback: SUV-like space without the fuel-economy compromise of heavier vehicles. As manufacturers get increasingly creative and design more stylish hatchbacks, these are worth a closer look.

    Station Wagon: Some have more passenger /cargo room and even better fuel economy than SUVs! They offer the best attributes of a car without the trade-offs of larger SUVs and crossovers.

    SUV/Crossover: The higher seating position of a crossover or SUV is something many people enjoy, for its increased visibility and for the ease of entry and exit as the seat is at a more natural height. More ground clearance than a hatchback or station wagon, but the fuel-economy penalty could be a deal breaker.

    Minivan: There is no vehicle better suited to accommodate six, seven, or eight passengers. A minivan is the perfect family vehicle and offers comfort for all. Check out the Honda Odyssey for its driving enjoyment and style.

     

    How Much Power Do I Want?

    There is an adventurous pleasure for many of us in hearing the thunder of a large engine and feeling its torque when accelerating. However, the truth is, trucks that tow and haul heavy loads are the real example of power requirement. The average car buyer doesn’t need it. Give it some real thought before going either way.

     

    What Size Car Do I Want?

    If big interior space is what you want and towing is a priority, buy big! The more practical approach… start small and work up. Small cars tend to have smaller price tags and consume less fuel. Larger vehicles make you feel safer but lighter cars are typically more agile and give you a better chance of steering away from a crash. They often have a shorter stopping distance, which may even keep you completely out of the mix. Some smaller cars even have about the same headroom as full size luxury automobiles.

     

    What about Hybrids and Diesels?

    Either approach will extend your fuel dollar, but at a premium purchase price. You may have to drive 60,000 or 100,000 miles to recoup your costs. The type of driving you do determines whether a hybrid or a diesel makes sense for you. Hybrids tend to use less fuel around town, when low speeds and frequent braking keep them running on battery power longer. Diesel drivers will see their greatest benefits on the highway and diesel vehicles are more efficient than gasoline cars at low speeds. The fuel benefits of diesel may be attractive but can change as quickly as fuel prices.

     

    Whether it’s a classic collectible, an adventure mobile or a declaration of efficiency and modesty, it’s you. Car shopping is for dreamers, have fun with it! Check my inventory and please browse my new website for more helpful blog articles!  I’m always available to answer your questions, feel free text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love.

     

    Source: Gall, Jared. “Whats the right new vehicle for me.” car and driver. Hearst Communications, March, 2009. Web. 4, 2,2017 . <URL>.

    Is your car ready for the Holidays?

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    winter-driving-tm-auto

    Around this time each year, I begin to wonder… Should we drive or fly? Let me see, a thirteen hour drive or airfare for five? Road trip wins again! We all know that November 25th is historically the busiest day for Thanksgiving travel, and yet there we are with thousands of other families making the annual trek. It’s crazy, stressful, exhausting, and a wonderful American tradition that has forged family ties for generations. I love it, but don’t tell my kids; my grumpy dad reputation would be ruined!

    Whether it’s an epic journey or a short jaunt, it’s important to prepare your vehicle for holiday traveling. Your car has just endured a summer’s worth of beach trips, sporting events, and taxiing everyone everywhere! For your car’s sake as well as your families, don’t risk it – winterize it! The basics will ensure safe passage through stormy weather, traffic jams, freezing temps, snow, equipment failure, and the unexpected. Most of the items on your winterizing checklist are DIY, minus a couple that I’d leave to the pros.

    Battery: Have mechanic run a battery load test to make sure your battery will go the distance. In extreme cold, a fully charged battery has just half its rated amp-hour capacity.

    Windshield: Change your wiper blades, fill the windshield washer reservoir with a lower freezing temperature washer fluid, and I suggest applying rain-x to your windshield for the best possible visibility. You may even want to tighten up that shine before cold weather sets in. Check out AutoDeets for spot removers! 

    Tires: Have your tires professionally checked if the tread depth is less than 3/16 inch. Your tire’s air pressure drops an estimated 6psi from summer to winter so properly inflate them to ensure best possible traction (see your owner’s manual). If snow is in the plan, consider swapping your tires out with snow tires for the trip.  

    Fluids: Have your oil and filter changed. Cold thickens your oil so a lower viscosity rated oil may be a good idea (See your owner’s manual). Check all fluids to ensure they are at the correct levels and there are no leaks. Now is also the time to check your 4WD to ensure it’s operating properly. Slippery roads, mud, or snow may call for heavy-duty traction!

    Antifreeze: Your car’s radiator should contain a 50/50 antifreeze and water mix. I recommend purchasing an antifreeze tester from your local parts supply. A simple test will confirm that your car’s antifreeze is suitable for winter temperatures.

    Belts & Hoses: They can weaken with cold weather. Check them for any signs of wear and tear and if in doubt, have them changed.

    Emergencies: I suggest a first aid kit, tool bag with basic tools for making minor repairs, portable charger for cell phones and other accessories, warm clothing for everyone, and plenty of bottled and backup munchies.  

    So maybe you fly, maybe you drive… Either way, hope for the best, prepare for the worst this holiday season by completing a smart checklist before heading out. Text or call (757) 560-4252 and ask for Mike Love. I’m always happy to answer your questions and assist you in finding the vehicle you want. Safe travels!

    Driving out of your comfort zone

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    Cars can be a real pain sometimes, literally! Foot cramps, low back pain, stiff neck, and sore shoulders are all common symptoms experienced by drivers at the wheel for prolonged periods. It doesn’t take a doctor to know that if you get aches and pains when driving, your car’s “ergonomics” may be the cause. Ergonomics (the science of engineering for human requirements and capacities) play a major role in maintaining a healthy relationship between you and your automobile. For example; a vehicle’s seat shape can add pressure to your legs and back causing pain and restricting blood flow. Neck, Hips, Knees, and elbows can all be affected by your car’s design features.

    A vehicle’s interior needs to be adjustable to be comfortable and a few simple adjustments may be enough to eliminate driver related chronic pain!

    The basics like headroom, visibility, and distance from the steering wheel and foot pedals can impact a driver’s comfort and health in a positive or negative way. Necessary adjustments include (but are not limited to) height from the floor, seat cushion angle, seat back angle, and distance between the seat back and the steering wheel. Check our inventory for the ride that fits you best and has the options you need. You and your passenger may have a much more comfortable ride when traveling for long periods by trying some of these easy adjustments!

    • Seat Height – Raise your seat as high as you can for best vision while staying comfortable. You should be able to see over the top of the steering wheel (about 3 inches or so) and still maintain enough room between the roof and the top of your head.

    • Seat cushion length (if available) – Try adjusting the seat length so that the back of your knees are about 1-1/4 to 2-3/8 inches from the front of the seat to improve blood flow.

    • Seat forward/back adjustment – Move the seat forward until you can easily push the pedals through their full range with your whole foot, no tip toes.

    • Seat cushion angle – Tilt the seat cushion until your thighs are entirely supported without pressure at the back of your knees.

    • Seat back – adjust the back of your seat until it supports your entire back when sitting upright.

    • Lumbar support – Adjust your lumbar support to reduce gaps & pressure points between your seat and back.

    • Steering wheel – adjust the steering wheel so that it can be easily reached, but not too close.

    • Headrest – Adjust your headrest so that it’s almost touching the back of your head and level with the top of your head.

    • Manual transmissions –  For those of us who love our trucks! Make sure you can comfortably reach your gear shift and easily change all gears.

    When your car’s interior is properly adjusted, you should be able to reach the pedals, steering wheel, and other controls without stretching your legs and arms. Check to see that you have a clear view through all windows, of all instruments, and all mirrors. Every vehicle in the TM Auto inventory comes with a Carfax so you can buy with confidence. Safe travels and enjoy your next extended road trip,.. in comfort!

    Posted 08/29/2016 in TM AUTO UPDATE

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