If you are excited about the warm weather, it is important for you to make sure your car is ready for your next road trip. That means thinking about spring maintenance. At Jessup Auto Plaza, we want you to make sure your car runs as efficiently as possible. If you take care of your vehicle, you can improve your gas mileage and add years of life to your vehicle. Take a look at a few important spring maintenance tips for your vehicle, and reach out to our dealership with any questions or concerns.

Start By Cleaning the Car
If you are thinking about spring maintenance for your vehicle, the first thing you need to do is clean your car. You should clean the inside and the outside of the vehicle. You may want to take your car to a professional car wash to make sure the exterior shines as it should. You should remove any clutter from the inside of your vehicle as well. Then, take an adjustable vacuum, and make sure you get rid of the dust, dirt, and crumbs. If you want your car to look and smell fresh, you may want to get it detailed.

Get the Brakes Checked
This spring, you should definitely get the brakes checked to make sure they are working as they should. From time to time, the brake rotors might need to be changed. You might need to get some new brake pads as well, particularly if they are worn down. You might want to top off your brake fluid, and the local dealership can help you with that. At Jessup Auto Plaza, it would be our pleasure to take a look at your brakes and make sure they are working as they should.

See if the Timing and Serpentine Belts Are Working Well
Even though they do not need to be changed once per year, it is important for you to take a look at your timing and serpentine belts to make sure they are operating efficiently. The exact lifespan of these belts will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, and we would be happy to take a look at the maintenance schedule published by the manufacturer for your specific make and model. If your timing and serpentine belts are operating efficiently, your engine should run smoothly. This can dramatically improve the handling of your vehicle.

Get Some Fresh Oil
You need to change your oil once per year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes sooner. Getting your oil changed is important for making sure your engine runs efficiently. Having fresh oil can reduce the friction in the internal components of your engine, which can prevent it from overheating. This can also reduce the wear and tear on your engine, which can add valuable years of life to your car. If you have questions about which oil is best for your vehicle, the team from Jessup Auto Plaza would be happy to help you.

Swap Out the Filters
Finally, don’t forget to swap out the filters this spring as well. For example, you may need to swap out your cabin air filters, particularly if you want to keep pollen out of your vehicle. This is important for people who suffer from allergies and asthma. If your cabin air filters are clogged, the indoor air quality of your vehicle may suffer.

You need to change your engine air filters as well. Your engine needs to have a source of clean air if you want it to run effectively. We would be happy to take a look at your engine air filters for you, and we will let you know if they need to be changed.

Visit Jessup Auto Plaza for Your Spring Maintenance Today
It is important for you to take care of your vehicle, and with spring in full swing, you need to stay up-to-date on routine maintenance. At Jessup Auto Plaza, we would be happy to handle all of your maintenance checks. We can take a look at your vehicle, make sure it is operating as it should, and let you know what is recommended by the manufacturer. If you have questions or concerns about how to take care of your vehicle, reach out to us today to make an appointment.

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If you are ready to purchase a new vehicle but need to sell your old vehicle to make the purchase, then you should consider trading the vehicle at a dealership. The trade-in process is simple. You will need to find the vehicle that you want to purchase and bring your old vehicle so that the dealership can apply credit for your old vehicle to the balance of the new vehicle. Before you visit a dealership, however, there are a few things that you will need to do so that you can get the most for your trade-in.

Determine How Much Your Trade-In is Worth
One of the first steps that you will need to take before you trade your vehicle is determining how much the vehicle is worth. Understanding how much your trade-in is worth will allow you to negotiate better so that you can receive more for the vehicle. There are several ways that you can get a valuation for your trade-in, but using online trade-in valuation tools is one of the quickest and easiest methods. To use an online trade-in valuation tool, you will simply need to enter a few details about your vehicle and its condition.

The tool will then provide you with an estimate of how much the vehicle is worth as a trade-in on the market.

Bring the Vehicle’s Paperwork
You will need your vehicle’s title when you trade the vehicle in. The title of your vehicle proves that you are the rightful owner of your vehicle and that you are authorized to sell the vehicle. If the title of your vehicle has a lien on it, then you will need to contact the lienholder so that they can release the title to the dealership. Similarly, if your vehicle’s title has another name and signature on it, then you will need to have this person sign the title over to the dealership.

Repair the Vehicle
Consider making minor repairs to your vehicle before you trade it in. Repairing cosmetic flaws and minor mechanical issues will restore the condition of your vehicle and make it more appealing, allowing you to receive more for the vehicle. Avoid making major repairs to your vehicle before you trade it in or sell it, however, as repairs are not compensated for and can cost you more to complete than they are worth. Take the time to determine which repairs are worth making to your vehicle before you trade it in also that you can get the most for your trade-in.

Clean Your Vehicle
You should present your vehicle to a dealership in its best condition. Therefore, you will need to clean your vehicle from its interior to its exterior so that it can look attractive, allowing you to receive a higher offer for the vehicle. A clean vehicle is also easier for a dealership to sell, as they will need to do less to the vehicle before they place it on their lot. Remember to remove any items that are important to you from your vehicle before you trade the vehicle in so that the items aren’t thrown away by the dealership.

Consider waxing your vehicle before you trade it in so that its paint can shine.

Get Different Offers
You do not have to accept the first offer that you receive for your trade-in. In fact, you should shop around when you want to get the most for your trade-in. Different dealerships will give you different offers for your vehicle based on what they need in their inventory and the vehicles that their customers typically purchase from them. If you are interested in offers that you have received from other dealerships, but are interested in a specific vehicle at a specific dealership, then you can use the additional offers that you have received for your trade-in as tools during the negotiation process for your new vehicle. This will not only help you get the most for your trade-in, but decrease the amount that you need to pay for your new vehicle.

Trading your vehicle is a simple process that requires some preparation from you so that you can get the best deal for your vehicle. When you trade your vehicle in at a dealership, you will be able to avoid the extra time and stress that can come with trying to sell your vehicle to a buyer. If you would like more information about the trade-in process or want a valuation for your vehicle, then visit us at Jessup Auto Plaza. We will be happy to help you through the process and to help you get the vehicle that suits your needs perfectly.

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Spark plugs are important engine components that are often forgotten about due to the fact that they operate in the engines of vehicles out of sight. Spark plugs are located at the top of an engine’s cylinder head. If you are looking for the spark plugs that are in your vehicle’s engine, you can easily find them by following the ignition coil wires of your vehicle. As they operate in an engine, spark plugs undergo thousands of cycles. Over time, the spark plugs of an engine can wear down and become weaker, eventually failing to operate. Before spark plugs fail, however, there are several warning signs that they will produce. Upon noticing the warning signs, drivers should seek to replace the spark plugs that are in their vehicles’ engines.

Spark Plug Replacement Schedule

It is a common practice for drivers to change the spark plugs that are in their vehicles’ engines around every 30,000 miles. However, some spark plugs can last up to 80,000 miles before they need to be replaced. There are many different types of spark plugs that are available on the market, and the engines of the vehicles that they operate in also play roles in their longevity. To determine the best spark plug replacement routine for your specific vehicle, refer to the owner’s manual for the vehicle. In the vehicle’s owner’s manual you will find what your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends for the vehicle, including the correct spark plugs that should be used in your vehicle.

The Importance of Spark Plugs

Spark plugs play a very important part in the operation of an engine. As their name describes, spark plugs provide spark for your vehicle’s engine. If your vehicle is fueled by gasoline, as diesel engines do not use spark plugs, it goes through a process that is known as a combustion cycle. During the engine’s combustion cycle, a mixture of air and gasoline is compressed and combusted to allow the engine to produce power. After the air-fuel mixture is compressed within an engine’s cylinder, the spark plug of the cylinder produces a spark, immediately combusting the mixture of air and gasoline. The air and fuel combustion that a spark plug initiates forces the piston of the cylinder to move down, which in turn rotates the crankshaft of the engine. Every cylinder of an engine has this combustion cycle taking place within its chamber, which is why there is typically one and sometimes two spark plugs for each cylinder in an engine.

Bad Spark Plug Symptoms

There are several warning signs that spark plugs give when they are worn-out and about to fail. One of the most notable signs that the spark plugs in your vehicle are wearing out is the rough running condition of the vehicle’s engine. A result of improper timing or a failure to spark, the spark plugs of your vehicle may not ignite the air-fuel mixtures of your vehicle’s engine, causing the engine to run poorly. Along with this, you may notice your vehicle’s engine misfiring. Misfiring can be both heard and felt.

When the spark plugs of your vehicle’s engine are worn out, the engine will perform poorly. You will notice a decrease in power, and your vehicle may accelerate slower, which can be dangerous. The engine may also burn more fuel to compensate for the uncombusted air and fuel that is in its cylinders. This added fuel, in itself, can cause additional issues for your vehicle, as it will begin to leave deposits on the components within your vehicle’s engine and in the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Complete Spark Plug Failure

Spark plugs can fail in multiple ways. The complete failure of a spark plug can potentially wreak havoc on a vehicle’s engine. While the actual damage to an engine can vary based on how the engine’s spark plug fails and the steps that are taken after the spark plug fails, there is still damage that can be done to the engine due to the fact that the tips of a spark plug, where the electric arcs are created, can break off when the spark plug fails. These metal fragments can then fall into the engine and move around the engine while it is rapidly completing its combustion cycle.

Conclusion

The spark plugs that are in your vehicle’s engine are small but they play a very vital role in your vehicle. Without properly functioning spark plugs, your vehicle will be unable to run and may leave you frustrated. However, practicing a proper maintenance routine will help you to prevent common issues that drivers have with their vehicles. At Jessup Auto Plaza, we can help you maintain your vehicle. Contact us if you would like to learn more about maintaining the spark plugs that are in your vehicle’s engine or to schedule a service with us.

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If you’re ready to shift your enthusiasm into overdrive, the new 2022 GMC Terrain is built for it! The new 2022 GMC Terrain is small but big on value and premium features. The versatile crossover offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers and flexible cargo space. And you’ll be able to experience the new Terrain in all of its glory right here at Jessup Auto Plaza.

As the leading new and used car dealership, we offer the full lineup of new GMC SUVs, trucks, and crossovers. Our experienced team of specialists will match you to the best automotive solution. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Jessup Auto Plaza for a tailored solution. But in the meantime, read on to explore the dynamic new 2022 GMC Terrain.

The GMC Terrain Interior

Whether you choose the GMC Terrain SLE/SLT, AT4, or Denali, you’ll enjoy craftsmanship at its finest.

SLE/SLT Trim

The SLE/SLT features real aluminum trim and fold-flat front-passenger seating. You can also opt for available Heated Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel, Skyscape Sunroof, and Heated Front Seats.

GMC Terrain AT4 Trim

Stepping up to the AT4 opens the door to unique interior accents and 8-Way Power Drier Seat with Way Lumbar Control. This trim offers standard Heater Leather-Appointed Front Seats as well as Heated Steering Wheel.

GMC Denali Trim

The GMC Denali is the pinnacle of luxury. It oozes a premium feel with unique interior accents. It builds upon everything offered in the AT4 with a more refined finish. For example, the French-Stitched Leather-Appointed leather seats are the perfect addition to this trim’s sill plate.

The Exterior of the GMC Terrain

The GMC Terrain boasts head-turning good looks. The SLE/SLT trim comes with an attractive restyled grill as well as new LED Headlamps and Tail lamps made with GMC’s stylish lighting. The Terrain AT4 comes equipped with Gloss-Black Roof Rails as well as Black Chrome exterior accents and finish. And when you opt for the premium Denali trim, you’ll enjoy a new Multidimensional Grille, Chrome Details, and Power-Adjustable, Heated Mirrors with LED Signal Indicator.

However, there’s much more than what meets the eye when it comes to the Terrain. Boasting function and form, the Terrain offers an innovative Hands-Free Programmable Power Liftgate. With this lift gate, you can quickly activate the automatic power lift gate by kicking underneath the left side of the rear bumper.

Performance and Capability of the GMC Terrain

The new GMC Terrain comes standard with a high-power 1.5L Turbocharged Engine that effortlessly produces up to 170 HP and 203 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine tows up to 1,500 lbs and delivers an impressive 25/30 MPG. And it features capability-boosting features like the available AWD Traction Select System designed to help you master rugged terrain. You can choose from three different driving modes:

• Off-road Mode adjusts the stability control, traction control, and AWD system to bolster driving dynamics and traction on sand, gravel, and dirt.

• AWD Mode instinctively sends more power to the rear and front wheels to enhance traction on wet, ice-cover, snow-covered, and dry roads.

• FWD Mode is perfect for everyday driving and is engineered to bolster fuel efficiency.

GMC Pro Safety Comes Standard on the Terrain

GMC Pro Safety is an innovative suite of six cutting-edge technologies designed to help make you more aware of possible hazards. It includes:

• Lake Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning employs a gentle steering-wheel nudge to let you know whenever you leave your intended lane. You can receive additional alerts if required.

• Automatic Emergency Braking works in conjunction with Forward Collision Alert to help reduce or avoid a front-end accident. This innovative feature works when you’re traveling below 50 miles per hour. It uses state-of-the-art camera technology to enhance your hard braking or to provide automatic hard braking.

• Intellibeam-Auto High Beams will instinctively cycle the on and off based on the on coming traffic.

• Forward Collision Alert can alert you of a potential front-end collision, so you can take the proper action. This feature can also issue tailgating alerts if you’re following a vehicle too closely.

• Following Distance Indicator offers you a visual time gap in seconds between you and the vehicle you’re following, which can you determine if you’re following too closely.

• Front Pedestrian Braking works around the clock to help reduce the severity of a frontend collision with a pedestrian that may be in front of you.

Contact Jessup Auto Plaza

If you’re in the market for a new or used vehicle, the team at Jessup Auto Plaza can and will help. We are home to an expansive inventory of new and used vehicles, including the new 2022 GMC Terrain.

Contact us today to find your next vehicle.

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An air filter is a very important component of a vehicle’s engine. While often overlooked by many, the air filter allows an engine to breathe properly by constantly supplying the engine with clean air. If a driver does not bring their vehicle in for routine servicing, according to the maintenance schedule that is provided by their vehicle’s manufacturer, then they may forget to have their vehicle’s air filter replaced when a service is overdue. There are several ways in which a dirty engine air filter can affect the performance of a vehicle.

Improper Airflow

As a driver commutes with their vehicle, the air filter that is in the engine separates debris from the air that is sent into the engine. Over time, the filter begins to collect various amounts of debris, with different sizes, allowing the filter to become clogged. When an engine’s air filter is clogged with debris, air can struggle to pass through the filter into the engine. The engine, which uses both air and fuel to properly complete its combustion cycles, will then struggle to operate properly.

Decreased Fuel Economy

A clogged engine air filter can directly affect the fuel economy that a vehicle’s engine achieves. Every manufacturer designs and programs their engines to operate with specific amounts of air and fuel going into the engines. When a vehicle’s engine air filter is clogged, the ratio of fuel and air that goes into the engine is changed, forcing the engine to run out of sync with its original program. The engine may then compensate to run properly with less air. The effect of a clogged air filter on the fuel economy of an engine is experienced more with vehicles that are equipped with carbureted engines rather than fuel-injected engines. While not a practice that should be routinely done, fuel-injected engines can adapt well to changes in their air-to-fuel ratios.

Dirty Air Filter Symptoms

While you may not notice the subtle decrease in engine performance that a dirty air filter causes, your vehicle may give you several larger signs that its air filter needs to be replaced. These signs can be caused by a multitude of things, but your engine air filter is the first component that you should check once you experience the symptoms.

When your vehicle’s air filter needs to be changed, you may experience your vehicle running roughly. Engine misfires and violent vibrations can be caused by an air filter that is dirty and clogged. The clogged air filter may allow oil to burn improperly, thus contaminating the spark plugs of your engine with excess oil deposits. The oil deposits will prevent the spark plugs from igniting properly, leading to misfires and rough idling.

When your vehicle’s engine air filter needs to be changed, you may also hear popping noises or vibrations from the engine. These sounds are caused by misfires and other issues that can be a result of a clogged air filter. Check the vehicle’s air filter first if you repeatedly hear these noises.

A dirty air filter can cause your vehicle to throw a Check Engine code. During this instance, the Check Engine Light of your vehicle will turn on. The light turns on because your vehicle is sensing that its engine isn’t receiving enough air. After you scan the Check Engine code, making sure that the code isn’t for another problem, check your engine’s air filter to see if it is dirty.

Air Filter Maintenance Schedule

There are several factors that will play into how often you need to change your vehicle’s engine air filter, such as the cleanliness of the environments that you routinely drive in. However, the best air filter maintenance schedule for your vehicle is provided by its manufacturer in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Following the maintenance schedule that is recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer will allow you to stay within the confines of what your vehicle was designed for. You can also routinely check the condition of your vehicle’s engine air filter, making sure that it is light in color and free of debris.

Conclusion

If you would like to learn more about your vehicle’s air filter, when it should be serviced, or how else it may be affecting the performance of your vehicle, contact us. We provide dependable vehicle services at Jessup Auto Plaza and will be glad to provide more information to you about engine air filters. Feel free to visit us as well if you would like to have your vehicle serviced and your vehicle’s engine air filter replaced.

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When you are buying a vehicle one of the biggest questions you have to ask is where you should buy new or used. Buying new or used both have their own pros and cons. Here, we will take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a new or a used vehicle.

Pros of buying new

Buying a new vehicle is one of the most exciting and memorable experiences. There are also a number of other reasons why you may want to consider purchasing new.

1). You are the first owner of the vehicle

When you purchase a new vehicle, you are the first owner. That means that you will be getting the vehicle with almost no miles on it. Everything on the vehicle will be in pristine condition from the engine to the car seats. If you enjoy driving a vehicle in flawless condition, then you will want to consider purchasing new.

2). The vehicle has the latest equipment

Every year, vehicles are coming out with new innovations. From driver assist technology to safety equipment, new vehicles give you the latest and the greatest of what a vehicle has to offer. When you want to drive one of the most advanced vehicles on the road, then you will want to purchase new.

3). The vehicle is covered under warranty

When you purchase a new vehicle, it is going to be covered under a comprehensive warranty for several years. This will not only save you on repairs, it will also give you the peace of mind that you are purchasing a vehicle that will give you a worry free purchasing experience.

Cons of buying new

While buying a new vehicle can be exciting, there are also some downsides to consider. Here’s why purchasing may not be ideal for you.

1). The price is higher

When you purchase a new vehicle, you will be paying a higher price versus purchasing a used vehicle. Therefore, you have to be prepared to pay a higher down payment and pay higher monthly payments.

2). You take the brunt of the depreciation

When you purchase a new vehicle, you will have to deal with steep depreciation for the first couple of years. In fact, many new vehicles will lose half of their value in the first three or four years of ownership.

3). Insurance can be higher

When you purchase a new vehicle, insurance companies will expect you to have full coverage until the vehicle is paid off. That means that you can expect to pay more for insurance coverage.

Pros of buying used

Buying a used vehicle can be one of the smartest purchasing decisions that you can make. Here’s a look at some advantages of purchasing used.

1). The price is more affordable

When you purchase a used vehicle, you are usually paying less than buying a compared vehicle that is new. This can save you thousands of tens of thousands of dollars.

2). You don’t have to deal with as much depreciation

if you purchase a vehicle that is about four years old, you are getting that vehicle at the “Sweet Spot” of the depreciation curve. This is the area where the steep depreciation of the vehicle begins to subside. That means that you are getting the vehicle at a great discount with not much more depreciation ahead of you.

3). Certain models are more attainable

Have you always wanted to purchase a certain make and model of vehicle but bristled at the new vehicle price. When you purchase used, that unattainable vehicle may not be in your price range. For instance, you would be surprised how affordable some BMW, Audi and Mercedes models can be when they are just a few years old.

Cons of buying used

While buying used can offer some advantages, there are some reasons why buying used may not be the best choice for you. Here’s a look at some potential downsides of purchasing a used vehicle.

1). The vehicle has older equipment

When you are purchasing a used vehicle, then you have to expect that the vehicle will not have the latest equipment in it. That means that you will be driving a vehicle that will have older driver assist, safety and tech equipment.

2). Reliability can be an issue

Depending on the age of the used vehicle, you could be dealing with a car, truck or SUV that can have reliability issues. This could be a major issue if the vehicle is out of warranty. That’s because you will have to pay for the repairs yourself if there is anything wrong with the vehicle.

3). Interest rates tend to be higher for used vehicles

When you finance a used vehicle, you are likely to pay a higher interest rate that you would versus financing a new vehicle. This could end up costing you more than you’d expect when it comes to monthly payments.

Which is best for you?

If you are wondering whether buying new or buying used is right for you, be sure to answer these three questions. This can help you decide which type of purchase is best for you.

1). What is your budget?

If you have a budget of under $20,000, then you will find many better choices purchasing a used vehicle since there are not many used vehicles available under that price point.

2). How long do you intend to own the vehicle?

If you are looking to own the vehicle for longer than five years, then you will be better off purchasing a new vehicle. That’s because you are likely to save on maintenance and repair costs since the vehicle will be under warranty for the first four to five years of your vehicle ownership.

3). Do you enjoy driving a vehicle with the latest features?

If you like to drive a vehicle with the latest driver assist, safety, and tech features, then you are better off with a new vehicle.

Find the best new or used vehicle at Jessup Auto Plaza

At Jessup Auto Plaza, we have a wide selection of new and used vehicles. Whether you are looking for a brand-new Buick, Chevy, GMC or Cadillac, we have the model that you are looking for. We also have a top selection of quality used vehicles at low prices. Visit us today.

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The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado is out, and it is full of incremental improvements and advancements. There are changes to the engine, body, interior and design philosophy. While many aspects of the truck are improved over the previous year, the 2021 model does not constitute a total redesign. Instead, the primary components are the same. Instead, improvements come in the form of upgraded and added individual features.

Many of those features are related to new technology. This review will focus on that component of the design and show the new and enhanced technology design choices in the 2021 Colorado. Those technology improvements can be found in the cockpit of the vehicle, safety design choices, and general performance.

In the Cockpit

You’ll find most of the cutting-edge technology in and around the cockpit for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. As you might imagine, the cockpit focuses on a touchscreen. Depending on the trim, Colorado buyers can get a 7-inch or 8-inch display. Both provide high-definition video, Bluetooth connectivity, access to Apple Carplay and Android Auto, and are powered by Chevrolet Infotainment 3 Premium. The infotainment center allows for great on-road entertainment as well as navigation, communication and control of the vehicle.

It is backed by a Bose audio system that provides excellent sound quality, and, for the first time, Colorado fans can have Amazon Alexa built right into their systems. This gives you access to all of your Amazon account goodies and enhances voice-controlled features in the vehicle.

The cockpit also utilizes a 3.5-inch instrument cluster display — which is upgraded to 4.2 inches for some trims. Front USB ports, an auxiliary input jack and an SD card reader allow for multimedia integration. Heated seats and a heated steering wheel maximize comfort.

In all, the cockpit of the 2021 Colorado is full of features that make driving more enjoyable and comfortable.

Enhancing Safety

Safety is another area of design that is packed with the latest technology upgrades. For the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, there are three key safety features available.

The first is forward collision warning. This system warns you when something is close to the front of the vehicle. This has applications on the road and especially when parking. It helps to prevent collisions and makes the whole experience that much safer.

Another competitive feature is lane departure warning. This system notifies drivers when they are leaving a lane without their blinker activated. It is particularly useful on long drives when fatigue can cause issues.

The third new feature is the rear parking sensor. This sensor works much like forward collision warning, except it is located in the back. Parking a Colorado has never been safer or easier.

Several other technology features are still included with or improved for the 2021 Colorado. The HD rear vision camera makes it easy to see when backing up. The electrical theft deterrent system continues to protect against car theft. Onstar services are available with every trim, and they include collision detection and automatic notification of emergency response teams when the airbag is deployed.

The tire pressure monitoring system, rear park assist and remote start round out these features to make the Colorado safer than before.

Boosting Performance

The last round of technology features are all geared towards better overall performance. Some can be seen in many Chevrolet models. Others are designed specifically for the new Colorado.

There is now a driver-selectable full-locking front differential. This is great for increasing torque when the Colorado is towing or carrying a heavy load. The extra power allows the truck to handle more heavy-duty operations than ever before.

The Multimatic DSSV Damping System creates a much smoother ride. Whether offroading or towing, increased damping improves overall control while driving.

Hill descent control and electronic traction control are standard features that give drivers more resources to handle adverse driving conditions.

Hitch guidance, the integrated trailer brake controller and tow/haul mode all make towing and hauling much safer and easier to handle. Overall, the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado improves on all aspects of performance, and the truck is better equipped than ever to handle hard work.

With so many technology upgrades, the 2021 Colorado holds clear advantages over previous models. While drivers can expect the overall experience to be similar to the 2020 model, the incremental upgrades do offer additional opportunities for performance, safety and comfort.

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At Jessup Auto Plaza, we understand how eager you are to hit the road this summer, especially after being cooped up during one of the most challenging times in recent history. Nevertheless, you’ll want your car to be in tip-top shape before planning any long-distance trips. Here are a few tips to help you get ready for a summer of fun, carefree driving.

Check Your A/C System

The last place you want to be on a long road trip is inside a vehicle with a broken air conditioner. Even if your car’s A/C system is blowing ice-cold air perfectly, a quick inspection by a trusted and certified mechanic will give you greater peace of mind on the open road.

If you’re getting nothing but lukewarm air out of your air vents even with the A/C at full blast, then it’s likely the system is low on refrigerant. Although you could add more refrigerant yourself, a certified automotive A/C specialist will have better tools for refilling the A/C system. In addition, your A/C specialist will thoroughly check your system for leaks and keep tabs on critical components like the compressor and condenser.

Inspect the Tires

You’ll also want to take a close look at your tires before setting off on any summertime road trip. Start by checking the tread depth with either a proper tread depth gauge or an ordinary penny. Insert the penny upside-down between the grooves and check the tread. If you can see the top of Abe Lincoln’s head, then it’s time for new tires.

Next, you’ll want to check your tires’ physical condition. Cracks on the tire sidewall, cracks or missing chunks in the tread, and/or a chalky, faded appearance are all possible signs of dry rot – a common problem as tires age and lose their UV protection as the years and mileage add up. Driving on a completely flat tire or even one that’s underinflated to a noticeable degree can also cause cracked sidewalls. If your tires show any of the above signs of damage, have them replaced as soon as possible.

Finally, make sure your tires are properly inflated to the pressures recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. You’ll find this information in your vehicle owner’s manual as well as the information placard on the driver’s side door jamb. Fortunately, newer vehicles often have tire pressure monitoring capabilities, which should make checking and properly airing your tires much easier.

Check and Top Off Fluids

Another thing you’ll want to do before going anywhere is checking and, when necessary, topping off your vehicle’s fluids. The first fluid you’ll want to check is the most crucial – your engine oil. Open the hood and locate your vehicle’s oil dipstick. Remove the dipstick and make sure the oil is at the correct level. Take note of the oil’s color – fresh oil is usually a light-brown or light-amber color, whereas dirty oil is much darker and sometimes even smells faintly of gasoline.

Next, check the engine coolant. In addition to checking for the correct fluid level, check the condition of the fluid itself. If fluid looks greasy, contains large amounts of sediment or has a strange color (depending on the type of coolant your vehicle uses), then have your mechanic perform a coolant system flush. Don’t forget to check your brake fluid and power steering fluid, while you’re at it.

If possible, make sure the transmission fluid is at the correct level. Keep in mind that many modern transmissions are “sealed for life” and thus lack a dipstick for reading fluid levels. Some vehicles offer a readout of transmission fluid levels and temperatures on the driver information screen while others require a trip to the dealer for a proper check-up.

Check Your Brakes

If you can see your vehicle’s brake calipers through the wheel spokes, then perform a quick visual inspection and make sure there’s ample material left on each brake pad. Also, make sure the brake disc and calipers are free of any visual damage or deformities. If you hear any squealing, rumbling, or grinding noises when coming to a stop, then your brakes may be too worn to handle a long road trip. A trained and certified mechanic can easily perform a deeper inspection of your brake system.

Replace Those Filters

When was the last time you checked or changed your engine air filter? If it’s been more than 15,000 miles or if you’re seeing a noticeable drop in performance or fuel economy, then it’s about time for a visual inspection. An excessively dirty or clogged engine air filter can starve your engine of fresh air, leading to sluggish engine performance, poor fuel economy, and even catastrophic damage to the engine itself.

If your car comes equipped with a cabin air filter, take this time to check and, if necessary, replace it. A dirty cabin air filter not only reduces the flow of fresh air into the cabin but can also cause unwanted cabin odors. The location of the cabin air filter varies depending on the vehicle’s make and model. Fortunately, a quick glance at your vehicle owner’s manual will tell you exactly where to find the cabin air filter, as well as the right part number for the replacement.

Inspect Your Wipers

If you haven’t checked your car’s windshield wiper blades this season, now’s a good time to do just that. Check the wipers for any signs of physical damage or decay, including cracks, splits, and oxidation. Damaged or deteriorated wiper blades are nowhere near as effective at clearing your windshield as a fresh set. Don’t forget to check the wiper arms themselves for corrosion and physical damage, since damaged wiper arms can keep your windshield from being cleared properly.

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Save on your next service appointment in %CITY% with Jessup Auto Plaza discounts. Take a look at our current service specials, or call us at %PHONE% to hear more. Jessup Auto Plaza offers expert repairs, maintenance, parts installation and more at our %CITY% auto repair center. Explore our service incentives here, then schedule your appointment online. We look forward to helping you keep your car in peak condition.

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Being a vehicle owner means knowing every technician at Jessup Auto Plaza who services your vehicle has met some of the highest service standards in the industry. When you bring your vehicle to us, you can be certain of two things: quality service and certified OEM parts. Our service staff is passionate and committed to keeping your vehicle performing optimally.

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