THINK FAST: Are you a distracted driver?

We know that we live in a world of distractions. But, when you’re driving, shouldn’t you be… you know, focused on driving? Unfortunately, for many people this isn’t the case. Nearly 80% of collisions and 65% of near-collisions involve driver distraction.

How do you know if you’re a distracted driver? Check out this list of typical behaviors:

• Do you eat while driving?
• Drink while driving?
• Make phone calls while driving?
• Text while driving?
• Pay more attention to your passengers than the road?

If you said ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then you are driving with distractions, and you’re at a higher risk of being involved in or causing a crash. We recommend pulling off to the side of the road to make your phone calls and send your texts, stop eating on the go (it’s healthier if you don’t, anyway), and keep your eyes on the road.

2014 Dodge Challenger: Best Midsize Sporty Car in APEAL Study

When it comes to things going right with your vehicle, which of the following categories are important to you?

• engine/transmission
• ride
• handling and braking
• comfort/convenience
• seats
• cockpit/instrument panel
• heating
• ventilation and cooling
• sound system
• styling/exterior

If you said “all of them,” we can’t blame you.  They are all important factors when it comes to finding a vehicle that makes you happy– and  J.D. Power & Associates agrees.  That’s why the annual APEAL Study is conducted using the above factors as guidelines.  You deserve the best of the best– and the results are in.  Ranked best overall performance and design in its class for this year’s APEAL Study: Dodge Challenger.

Segment: Midsize Sporty Car

Competitors Left In The Rear View: Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Genesis, Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon.


Come visit us to take one for a spin!

6 Timeless Print Ads From Dodge & Chrysler

Do you remember a time when cassette tape players were a cutting edge feature and everyone with a license knew how to drive stick?  In this age of digital technology, sometimes it’s easy to overlook the things that require extra work to make or understand.  We have become impatient about the bottom line.  When most of us read headlines instead of news stories, the simple elegance of a good print ad can go unappreciated.  To remedy that, here are a few of our favorite examples from Chrysler and Dodge.
 

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The big five to ensure a tail-wagging drive this summer!

1. You should bring your own water from home.  Dogs have sensitive stomachs and water from unfamiliar places can easily cause an upset tummy for your pup.

2. Plan ahead for any medication your pooch might need while you’re traveling.  If you are able to pack extras, do so.

3. It’s always smart to bring a blanket that smells like home– people aren’t the only ones who get homesick!

4. Get your dog used to being on the road by taking him on a few short drives in the days approaching the big trip.

5. Make sure he’s micro-chipped.  Hit the road with the peace of mind that if the worst does happen, you won’t be caught unprepared.

You already know this, but we must remind you: NEVER leave your dog in your car unattended.  This is especially important during the sizzling months of summer.

What's the matter, Ford? Hitch in your giddyup?

The 2015 Dodge Challenger is here, and it’s out for blood. Powered by a V8 Hellcat engine, this car is more than just a game-changer. It will revolutionize how you think about performance vehicles.

And it’s not like it’s the only performance car on the market. There’s some stiff competition between the other 2015 speedsters, namely Ford’s Mustang Shelby GT5000. Many have referred to the new Mustang’s 420 horsepower capability as impressive. We’d describe it more as a nice try. The latest news suggests the 2015 Challenger will pump out upwards of 600 horsepower. According to SRT chief Ralph Gilles, it just may top out around 640 hp.

Bottom line? If “impressive” is level with 420hp, Ford is still about 200 ponies behind. And the Challenger isn’t waiting for anybody to catch up.

Seeing red or feeling blue: What your car’s hue reveals about you

Red: Outgoing and High Energy

There’s something about the color red is impossible to ignore.  If your car is sporting this paint job, you are likely quick-witted, bold, and dynamic.  You think on your feet and tend to make snap decisions that somehow always work out.  If you like to be center stage with all eyes on you, red is the perfect shade for you.

Black: Classic and Elegant.

Black is truly a timeless color. Not only is it simple and versatile, it is an unmistakable symbol of power. If you are the owner of a black Cadillac, you probably have very classy taste in clothing and appreciate the finer things in life.  You have an impressive talent for knowing the appropriate time to speak your mind.

Blue: Trustworthy, Calm, and Patient

Much like the ocean on a bright sunny day, blue car owners tend to be cool and calm.  If your ride dons this color, you are a humanitarian.  People describe you as trustworthy, sensitive, and caring. When you make friends, they are lifelong connections.

White: Direct, Organized, and Clean

Generally, if you drive a white vehicle you probably insist upon keeping your office space, home, and vehicle in pristine condition. White isn’t able to camouflage very much when it comes to mud and dust, so you definitely know the value of caring for your things.  Some might describe you as being high-maintenance.  We’d describe you as selective.

A Complete Guide To The Future Of The Jeep Brand

There are two all-new vehicles coming from the Jeep brand. A C-segment SUV that will replace the Patriot and Compass is coming in 2016 when both of those vehicles are retired, and an all new seven-seat SUV known as the Grand Wagoneer will arrive in the 2018 model year.

That C-segment SUV will likely be built in Italy alongside the new Fiat 500X, with styling inspired by the Wrangler. As for the Grand Wagoneer, it will likely share many of its traits with the Grand Cherokee, though it will have a third row of seats.

Speaking of the Wrangler, those waiting for a new model will have to hold tight until the 2017 model year, with no refreshes scheduled until the new model is revealed. Rumor has it that the Wrangler is going to ditch its solid axles in favor of independent suspension all around, in an attempt to make the vehicle more fuel efficient. A diesel engine also looks like a strong possibility for the Wrangler, also helping to save fuel.

An all-new Grand Cherokee is also coming in 2017, with a refresh slated for 2015. The fate of the SRT Grand Cherokee is unknown right now, as SRT has been folded and now exists only under the Dodge brand.

Refreshes are also already planned for both the Cherokee and Renegade, in 2016 and 2017 respectively.

Jeep has already doubled its sales from 338,000 units in 2009 to more than 732,000 last year, and Jeep Boss Mike Manley says that he expects over 1 million Jeeps to sell this year.

Courtesy: AutoGuide

How keeping your light fixtures clean will help you avoid problems down the road.

Sometimes it is the little tips that end up saving you the biggest. For example, few drivers know that when you go to change a bulb that has gone bad or burned out, ideally you should take a moment to inspect the socket and see if there is any dirt or corrosion that has built up at all. If you notice that it is beginning to look a little worn, try cleaning the socket using a fine steel wool brush or even just a small wire brush. Wiping the socket clean of debris before installing the new light bulb will increase the life and efficiency of not only the new bulb you are installing, but the socket and wiring harness that are not as easy or cheap to fix should they begin giving you problems. So the next time you go to change a bulb in your vehicle, remember this quick tip and the potential time and money it could end up saving you!