1537 4th Street Eureka, CA 95501 707-445-1177

Fuel Level Limbo Running on Fumes

How Low Will You Let It Go?
In the world of cars, there's a risky dance we all play it's called the Fuel Level Limbo. How low can you go with your fuel gauge before your car decides it's had enough of your shenanigans?;

The Sediment Shuffle: Dancing with Dirt

First up in our limbo line is the sediment shuffle. You see, your fuel tank isn't a pristine oasis. It's more like a mini desert, complete with its own set of buried treasures, sediment and gunk. Go too low on fuel, and your car starts picking up this dance floor debris, leading to a not-so-funky clog in your fuel system.

The Pump Plunge: A Drying Dilemma

The fuel pump loves a good swim. But in the Fuel level limbo, it's like being at a pool party with no water. Running on low fuel means the pump gets no cooling or lubrication, think of it as trying to dance in quicksand. Spoiler alert: it doesn't end well for the pump

The Gauge Guessing Game: Fuel Forecasting Fiascos


Ever play the guessing game with your fuel gauge? Trying to predict exactly how many miles you can push before your car sputters to a stop is like trying to forecast the weather with a magic 8-ball. Spoiler, Outlook not so good

Stranded Salsa: The No-Gas Tango

There's nothing like the dance of desperation when you're stranded on the side of the road. It's a unique mix of the regret-rumba and the frustration-flamenco. Trust me, roadside assistance doesn't appreciate impromptu dance performances

The Wallet Waltz: Fuel Efficiency and Your Finances

Dancing on the edge of an empty tank isn't just risky; it's also a waltz with your wallet. Consistently running low can mean more trips to the mechanic, and those visits can have more zeroes on the bill than you'd like.

Keeping the Tank Tango at Bay

So, what's the moral of our Fuel Level Limbo story? Keep that fuel dance above the danger line. It's cheaper, safer, and far less embarrassing than doing the roadside stranded salsa. Happy driving, and may your fuel gauge always be a limbo stick that's set just right!

Can You Buy A Brand New Tesla For A Dollar

If It Looks To Good To Be True It Probably Is

When you read that headline, I bet you were more than just skeptical. In fact you already knew it couldn't possibly be true. So how someone possibly be selling brand new Tesla's for just a dollar? The answer is they aren't but that's not the point. The headline got your attention.

While our exercise in skepticism was easy to spot, unfortunately that's not always the case. Online scammers have for years tried to take advantage of people, but with the surge in used car values, they are working overtime. With so many people out of work and struggling to make ends meet, scammers know that now is the time to strike.

One of their tried and true methods they like to use is posting to online classified sites. They post incredible sounding deals on cars with the hope some unsuspecting victim will take the bait. They even go to legitimate used car dealers website's to steal the cars' information and images. All of this is to try and lure you in so they can get your money. So how can you spot these scams?

Here are a few things to look out for:

  1. The price is too good to be true - This should be obvious but unfortunately it's not always.

  2. They refuse to meet in person - A common tactic of scammers is to insist on communicating only through email or text. They will give all kinds of excuses as to why they can't meet in person but the truth is they don't want to get caught.

  3. They ask for payment upfront - This is a huge red flag. No legitimate seller is going to ask for payment before you even see the product.

Are You Ready To Buy A Car?

We are a reputable dealership with years of experience. Our team of experts will help you find the perfect car for your needs as well as your budget. Contact us today and let us help you find the car of your dreams.

Should You Buy A Car From A Private Party

Buying From A Private Party Vs. A Dealership

There are a lot of things to consider when purchasing a car, and buying from a private party is no exception. Here are four things you should keep in mind if you're thinking about buying a car from a private seller.

Your financing options may be limited.

If you're looking to finance your purchase you will have to arrange for your own financing. If you have less than perfect credit, this could limited you financing options. Dealerships are in the business of selling cars and have a network of sources to work with.

Warranties may not be available.

When you buy a car from a dealer, it could possibly come with a warranty or at least once could be offered to purchases. However, when you buy from a private seller and something goes wrong with the car, you probably don't have any recourse.

The car may not be inspected.

Most dealerships have some sort of inspection process for the cars they sell, but private sellers aren't required to have their vehicles inspected. This means that you could be buying a car with serious mechanical issues and not even know it.

The purchase could be more complicated than you think.

There are a lot of paperwork that goes into buying a car. If you're not familiar with the process, it can be very confusing and even overwhelming.

If you're considering buying a car from a private seller, make sure you do your research and understand all of the potential risks involved. It's important to remember that you could be buying a lemon and end up being stuck with a huge bill for repairs.

You have to find a buyer for your old car

If you already have a car and need the money to buy a new one, you will need to figure out  what to do with your old car.

There could be title issues

When buying from a private party, you will want to run a title check before finalizing the purchase. You will also have to handle all the paper work and registration yourself.

 

We understand that you want to get the best price when buying or selling your car. Bring your car into our dealership and we will give you an instant offer. We want your vehicle and we will pay you top dollar to put it toward a New Car, Truck or SUV. Call or visit today

Winter Is Here And So Is The Snow

How To Safely Remove Ice and Snow From Your Car

Winter can bring a variety of problems with your car – from icy windshields to frozen lock mechanisms. But one of the most common winter car troubles is having to clear away ice and snow, which can quickly become an annoying and potentially dangerous job. To make things easier we’ll provide you with some simple tips and tricks for safely removing ice and snow from your car.

Check Your Car’s Temperature

The first step in safely removing ice and snow is to make sure that your car is at the right temperature. Generally speaking, you don’t want the engine to be too hot or too cold; if it is too cold, any sudden change in heat could cause glass (including the windshield) to crack or shatter. So be sure to start your car up and let it sit idle until its temperature reaches a comfortable “warm-to-the-touch” level before attempting any removal attempts.

Start With The Windows

Once you have an acceptable temperature inside your car, it’s time to start removing that pesky layer of ice and snow! The best place to start is with the windows; this will allow you maximum visibility when driving once everything has been cleared away. Begin by scraping off any snow or ice build up on the exterior of each window using either a plastic or rubber scraper or even a credit card; then move on to clearing away frosty condensation from inside (for this, a cloth should do). Once you have removed as much as possible, turn on your defroster until all glass is completely cleared away. 


Use A Deicing Agent

If scraping alone doesn’t seem to cut it – especially if you are dealing with thick layers of frozen water – consider using a deicing agent like rock salt or even diluted rubbing alcohol (make sure not to use straight rubbing alcohol as this could damage paint jobs). Sprinkle these substances onto the problem areas on both the outside and inside of your windows (just remember not to get any of these agents on any part of your vehicle’s interior). Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting another scrape – this should help break up large chunks of ice into smaller pieces that can be more easily removed. 

Finish With A Cleaning Wipe Down

Once all visible snow/ice has been removed from both exterior AND interior surfaces, give everything one final wipe down using paper towel or newspaper – just make sure whatever material you are using does not contain any dyes/inks that could stain fabric surfaces like dashboard coverings or floor mats! This will ensure no dust remnants remain after completion and prevent interior surfaces from becoming wet due to any residual moisture. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can make short work of removing snow and ice from your car.

Winter Driving - It's No Joke

Cold Weather And Snow Are Just Around The Corner

As the temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, it's important to remember some basic winter driving safety tips. By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone involved.


Depending on where you live, winter driving conditions can vary greatly. In some areas, snow and ice are a regular occurrence, while in others, it's more of a rare event. No matter what the conditions are like in your area, it's always important to be prepared for the worst.

Before setting out on a winter drive, make sure your car is in good working condition. This means having a full tank of gas, making sure all your lights are working, and having snow tires or chains if conditions are particularly bad. It's also a good idea to let someone know your planned route and expected arrival time, just in case you run into trouble along the way.


When driving in winter conditions, take your time and don't be afraid to give yourself extra space between you and the car in front of you. It takes longer to stop on slippery roads, so you need to give yourself plenty of time to brake. And if you do start to skid, resist the urge to panic. Instead, focus on steering into the direction of the skid until you regain control.


If you haven't driven in snow before then you should consider having someone take you to a safe location to practice. Once you feel confident behind the wheel, then you can start venturing out on your own. Just remember to take things slow and be extra cautious until you get used to the conditions.


Before the winter driving season begins, check your used car carefully. Inspect the tires for tread depth and add all-weather tires when needed. Be sure your car has snow scrapers, a shovel, and kitty litter or rock salt in case you need extra traction.

 

Are you confident in your car's ability to drive in snow? Check with our knowledgeable sales staff to find a reliable car that will help you brave the winter roads in style. Stop by today and take a test drive!

Why Now Is The Best Time To Trade In Your Car!

Get Top Dollar For Your Trade!

 If you are in the market for a new car, now is an excellent time to trade in your old one. Dealer inventory is low, as a result, dealerships are now offering better deals on trade-ins than they have in the past. 

 

What are some benefits of trading in a car for a newer model

  1. Trade-ins are at an all-time high, and likely to stay that way for the foreseeable future.

  2. You'll get a better deal now than you would in the past

  3. It will be easier to find financing for your new car since dealerships have less inventory on their lot

When you trade in your old car for a newer model, you can expect to receive a number of benefits. First, you'll get a newer, more reliable car. Newer cars have better fuel economy and safety features than older models. Finally, you'll have the opportunity to trade in your old car for a new one with the same or lower monthly payments.

 

What should I do to get my car ready to trade it in?

If you're thinking about trading in your old car for a new one, there are a few things you can do to get your car ready. Most importantly, make sure the car is clean inside and out. This will make it more attractive to potential buyers and help you get a better price. 

You should also fix any cosmetic damage and have the car serviced so that it is in good working condition. Finally, gather all of the paperwork related to the car, including the title, registration, and maintenance records. This will make it easier for the dealer to process the trade-in.

Do car dealers take trade-ins with out you buying one of their cars?

Yes, most car dealerships will accept trade-ins even if you don't plan to buy a car from them.  As a matter of fact this gives dealer's a faster way to increase their inventory without relying on the traditional auction route.

Looking for a commuter car Ford Focus is it

I cannot tell you how many people come to the car lot looking specifically for a Honda Civic, and leave here the proud new owners of a Ford Focus. It's not because of my sweet sales skills, or fancy mojo that us slick sales persons possess -- it's because the Ford Focus is genuinely a smart purchase. They compare across the board with Honda and Toyota in the same class, they have similar gas mileage, handling, equipment, and depending on the model, can be just as sporty -- boasting 17 inch alloy wheels and spoiler. Read on to discover why your money will be better spent on a Ford Focus as opposed to the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla that everyone thinks they need.

The Ford Focus has been around since 1998 when it replaced the Fiesta. We are now in the 3rd generation of Focus, and although there have been improvements with each generation, the gen 1 Focus is still a very popular choice with many still on the road today. Because of the longevity of this brand, there is a Focus for almost any budget. If you are looking for a commuter car for your new college student, the 1st generation Focus will be the perfect choice, and will not break you budget under $5,000. In fact, we just had a 2004 in our inventory with under 17k original miles! Although that was a rare majestic beast, it's not uncommon to find a 2005 Focus with under 100k miles with plenty of life left in it.

(Another happy Focus owner)

Fully loaded, the Focus SES comes with Bluetooth, sat nav, moon roof, and Ford Sync connectivity. 3rd generation Focus has a very smooth ride with little to no road noise, and a sleek body style that is sure to impress. Although the 1st and 2nd generation Focuses aren't as sleek or boast as smooth a ride as the newer ones, they too come with leather, spoilers, moon roofs, and such amenities that were very on trend for their time. The 2nd gen even comes with a 2 door option.  

(Stock image of 2015 Ford Focus hatchback)

Aside from the affordability, amenities and sporty looks, the Focus is a safe car. They boast 7 air bags in total, including a driver knee air bag on newer models. They also include electronic stability control and hill start assist. I have sold many Focuses over the years, to young people buying their very first car, and grandparents alike, and many come back to tell about what a comfortable ride their Focus is as well as how much gas they have saved!

Just this week, as I was delivering another Ford Focus, I was talking to my customer about the difference between her new car and a Honda Civic. To me it comes down to brand recognition and advertisement. For instance, Nike pays athletes millions of dollars a year to wear their shoe and feature in their ads. They have the same factory as a brand like Skechers, the same material, the same research analysts looking for the best new thing in shoe technology (Skechers Shape Ups, anyone?). What we consumers are paying for is that notoriety.  Michael Jordan and Lebron James have a little more sway with the kids Nike's ads are targeting than say Brooke Burke for Skechers. Skechers are just as comfortable, have just as much longevity if not more so than Nike shoes, but Lebron James is a whole lot cooler so he gets paid a lot more money, and that's what we are paying for. People somehow got it in their heads that Honda is a better, more reliable, sportier brand than Ford. It might have something to do with movies like The Fast and The Furious - we don't see Paul Walker street racing in a Ford Focus. We do see Nascar drivers though, racing in real life in Ford Fusions. Hollywood has a little more star power than Nascar, and we American consumers want to keep up with the latest trends.

My point is that your money is well spent with Ford Focus, and/or Ford products in general in comparison to other, more seemingly popular brands such as Honda and Toyota when it comes to these commuter cars. Why spend upwards of $12,000 for a Honda Civic with 115k miles, when you can purchase a Focus with 85k miles for under $10k? You'll have extra money in your pocket and a smile on your face as you pass by the gas station.  


Why We Do What We Do - Breana Sundberg

More often than not, when I respond to the question "What do you do?" either by people I just met, or old high school friends, I get met with either a blank stare or an immediate response of "No you don't." Yes, yes I do. I sell cars. But I like to think of myself as doing more than that.

I graduated from Humboldt State University in 2011 with all intentions of doing something big. I just had no idea what that something big was. I chose my major in Human Communication when I transferred to HSU in order to understand how and why people do the things they do. How we communicate our wants, our needs, our ideas and expressions, says something about who we are as a people, as a community, and a society. Understanding communication, to me, is understanding the world.

Me, 2nd to the left, w some of my debate teammates feeling pretty proud of our win

I was working at Fraga's Sweetheart Motors throughout college. Tony and Denise were very flexible with my schedule and encouraged me to take the time I needed in order to focus on my school work. They had already come to the realization that I would move on from my admin position here after graduation. I had applied and was accepted in an AmeriCorps program, but I was still hesitant as to what I wanted to do, as I am sure many 22 year olds are. During my last year in school, and into that summer, I had grown restless in my position at Fraga's and was helping establish a more interactive website. I had helped with a few sales and realized I have a lot of fun working on this side of the business. I had heard many stories from people over time about how they had overcome hardship, dragged themselves out of the hole they were in and here they are, able to buy their own car with their freshly rebuilt credit, or their new job or promotion, or maybe even their very first car! The feeling of handing someone the keys to their new found freedom is unlike any other. So when it was time for me to move on, and take the job at AmeriCorps working for next to nothing doing back breaking work, I realized that I was already doing that something "big" I had been searching for.

We do it for the smiles

Obviously we sell vehicles to people of means. People who don't need that extra bit of help to get financed, who may have financed 10 cars in the past and know exactly what they are doing. Those people are great too, don't get me wrong. But what drives me are the people who I know that I put a smile on their face. People who were walking miles to work, or taking the bus on our awful HumCo. public transportation system, people who are using up their savings fixing up their busted up unreliable cars in hopes they will last just one more year. It is next to impossible to get ahead in life in Humboldt County if you don't have a car of your own. So when I see the tears well up, or am hugged so hard that I feel like my shoulders might break, I can't help but to squeeze back even harder, and pump my fists in the air in jubilation right along with them. I can't speak for everyone else in this industry, but this is why I do what I do.    


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