If you are in the market for a vehicle there are essentially two ways to go about it. You can buy one from one of the car dealerships in Torrance, or you can buy one from a private seller. While it might seem like a good idea to buy a used vehicle from a private individual, there are a few advantages to buying from a dealership.
Have Your Next Car Your WayWhen you buy a car from a private seller, what you see is what you get. In other words, the car comes just the way it sits in their driveway. When you shop at the car dealerships in Torrance, CA you get to build your car your way. You can ask for a range of dealer installed accessories such as upgraded audio systems, custom rims, upgraded interiors, extended warranties and more. All things you won’t get from a private seller.
Financing Your Next Vehicle One of the biggest benefits of buying from a dealer is the ability to finance your purchase. At Penske Cadillac of South Bay we offer a wide range of financing options for you to choose from. If you plan to buy from a private seller, you will need to arrange your own financing with your local bank or credit union. Many banks will not finance a car being sold by a private seller as they do not trust the seller to place an accurate price on the car. In many cases, you will be paying a higher interest rate when buying from a private seller.
Car Dealerships in Torrance Have a Reputation You never know who you are buying a car from with a private seller. They might be perfectly honest and are selling you a good car at a great price. But when you shop at one of the car dealerships in Torrance, CA they have a reputation to maintain. Their goal is to provide the best possible service to every customer who comes through the doors. On top of this, if you have a problem with your vehicle, you can take it back to the dealership where you bought it and ask them for help.
Car Dealers Offer a Warranty Whether you are buying a new car or a used one we offer a warranty with every car they sell. While the warranty on a used car might be less than that on a new car, some level of warranty is far better than the complete lack of warranty a private seller will offer.
Car Dealers Have a Better Selection Each private seller typically has only one vehicle for sale. A car dealership will have a large selection of vehicles for you to choose from. Even if you think you know which vehicle you want, you might find another one that better suits your needs.
End of Summer Car Care
Well, we hope you were able to get all your bbq’s, camping trips and swimming days in over the last few months. Because summer is coming to an end whether you like it or not. For most of us, that means cooler weather and nastier road conditions. Your car was good to you over the summer months, so now is the time to make sure it’s good to you over these coming cooler months. Here are a few tips to make sure you stay safe on the road, and to make sure your vehicle runs smoothly in all conditions.
1. Vehicle Inspection: Technicians will be able to inspect your vehicle and assess its exact needs. Often times they will perform checks and tests on fluids, batteries, belts, hoses, etc. 2. Tire Tread: This may be one of the most important maintenance tips to focus on. With adverse road conditions, your tires should preferably be in tip-top shape. This means your tire-tread should be at least 2/32″.3. Windshield Wipers: For most of us, the coming months will be much wetter than the previous months. And since seeing out of your windshield is generally a pretty important part of safe driving, you are going to want to make sure your windshield wipers are up to the task of handling all the rain and snow coming your way. If your wiper blades are more than 6 months old, you may want to think about getting them replaced. 4. Fuel: Moisture can build up in your fuel pump and really create some problems. It is a good idea to add de-icer to your gas tank once a month to make sure moisture doesn’t freeze within your fuel line. 5. Lights: Driving at night in bad road conditions can be extremely unsafe. That’s why it’s important to make sure your vehicle’s lights are all in working order. Make sure all burned out bulbs are replaced and to clean any grime from lenses with a moist towel. 6. Emergencies: Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.
What To Do If Your Engine Overheats
Engines can overheat when they are being worked too hard, and other times they overheat because there is a problem with the cooling system. Summer weather can definitely contribute to the engine overheating so this is a great time to review before anything happens. Keep reading to learn what to do in the event your engine shows sign of overheating and be prepared before you hit the road for any long trips. Always have 1 spare gallon of coolant and 1 gallon of distilled water in your trunk.
Keep an eye on your temperature gauge while driving. It takes a little practice but is worth it since many people don’t notice until their car is overheating.
If the gauge rises, pull over when possible. If you see the temperature gauge rising or steam coming from under the hood, pull over, shut the vehicle off, and open the hood to allow the engine to cool off faster. However, if it’s unsafe or impossible to pull over, turn off your air conditioning and turn on your heat max hot and blower fan on high. This will cool the engine by pulling heat into the passenger compartment. Then, when conditions permit, pull over and turn the vehicle off.
1. Let the engine cool off before you do anything. 2. Check the radiator for leaks. 3. Refill antifreeze / coolant levels.4. Check radiator and hoses for leaks, blockages or bursts. 5. Carefully monitor the temperature gauge. 6. Keep a safety kit in your car with food, water, coolant, flashlight, blankets.
Fun Traffic Tips
Summer makes for a great time to get out and enjoy what our state has to offer but that can also mean getting stuck in dreadful traffic. It’s like come on we just want to get to the beach already and have some fun in the sun. Clearly, road congestion can be a headache, but here are some fun ways to stay sane if you do find yourself stuck in gridlock.
1. Catch up on your reading: Now we don’t mean reading an actual book, while driving, because that would be dangerous but more so Audio Books! I am sure you have all said, I wish I had more time to read and guess what this time stuck in a mess of cars makes it so you do! 2. Get Fit:Yes we know what you’re thinking, how on earth do you work out sitting in a confined space such as your car? Focus on fixing your posture and doing a little stretching all while taking deep breaths in/out. Can you say stress relief and relaxation!? 3. Voice Memo:Have things you need a reminder to do? Use the voice memo on your smart phone to take notes, create grocery lists for your weekend adventure and or set reminders for upcoming meetings & appointments etc. 4. Call friends or Family:Let us not forget that our phones can be used for more than just texting and or taking pictures. Pass the time by calling a friend or family member to catch up and laugh it up, hands-free of course! 5. Learn a New Song: What better way to pass the time by in traffic, than to rock out and learn a new song? Spend this extra time playing the song and learning the words. After all, every road trip needs a theme song!
Try not to think of yourself trapped, as you inch along and joggers are probably running faster than you but think of it as a time to reflect and maybe even goof off a little. After all, you are on your way to have some fun in the sun. So, take these tips and make the most out of that traffic jam you find yourself in.
Washing Your Vehicle
It’s summer and many car owners will take a Saturday to wash the family vehicle. Proper washing is one of the most overlooked and misunderstood areas of auto care, and sadly improper washing damages and dulls your vehicle’s finish over time. Take a look at these tips from Penske Cadillac Buick GMC of Southbay to learn more.
Always Wash Your Car in the ShadeThis will keep your car wash shampoo solution from drying on the car before it is rinsed off.
Use a Car Wash ShampooCar wash shampoos have come a long way since their introduction to the automotive detailing market. There was a time when we all just grabbed dish soap and went to work but those days are long gone. Dish soap is designed to eat away grease and food and while it works great for dishes we need to keep it in the kitchen! High quality car wash shampoos will clean a car’s surface, enhance the gloss and leave the car wax, paint protectant or paint sealant intact.
When washing your vehicle remember to always go from top to bottom, never the opposite. Generally the dirtiest parts of your vehicle are those parts closest to the ground. Wheel wells, rocker panels and bumpers tend to have the largest accumulation of grime and you don’t want to bring that junk back onto the paint surface and risk scratching it.
Use a Soft Car Wash MittWash mitts can be made of long or short nap microfiber, sponge material or sheepskin that can be either synthetic or genuine. You want to avoid using shop rags, old t-shirts, and beach towels as the nap, or thickness of these items is so small that you can easily exert too much force onto the paint and inadvertently push surface dirt around instilling washing swirls. If you are washing a larger vehicle such as a truck, RV or boat, or simply prefer using a brush instead of a wash mitt, then stay clear of brushes with nylon brushes that will quickly damage, dull, and scratch paint.
Drying Your VehicleTwo of the most popular options for drying your vehicle are waffle weave microfiber towels or an air blower.Waffle weave microfiber towels are very soft, safe and effective. The waffle weave fibers act like little pockets and absorb tons of water and when used properly are extremely gentle on your vehicle’s delicate surfaces. Leather Chamois or PVA Synthetic Chamois are another option for drying your vehicle, however these towels are not as soft or gentle as the above products and are going to be much more likely to leave some swirling in your paint.
New Car Care Tips
You’ve taken the plunge and brought home your shiny new car or truck. It’s a thing of beauty which you’ll be admiring for a while every time you see it. You’ll likely be hearing advice from friends and neighbors who stop by to see your new ride.
You’ll want to protect your investment and performing simple preventative maintenance on your vehicle will go a long way.
Here are a few tips from Penske Cadillac Buick GMC of Southbay in Torrance to take care of your new vehicle.
BrakesNew brake pads on new brake rotors don’t really require a break-in procedure. The texture deliberately left on the surface of the iron discs will grind down the fresh surface of the pad material within a few miles. Even so, refrain from high-speed stops or dragging the brakes for a few hundred miles.
OilChange the oil regularly and check the oil levels between oil changes to keep it running smoothly.
InteriorA generous dousing of Scotchgard or a similar protectant on the cloth upholstery and carpets will keep dirt, pollen and mildew from clinging.
ExteriorProtect the paint surface from harsh environmental elements and prevent premature aging with a car wax, paint protectant or paint sealant.
Traveling with Fido
Some great tips on how to travel with your pooch!
The MyCadillac App
Did you know there is a MyCadillac App? Unlock your vehicle’s full potential with the MyCadillac App. The customizable app allows you to view diagnostic information, send remote commands, manage your Wi-Fi hotspot and data, locate a nearby Cadillac dealer, schedule service appointments, send destinations to your navigation system and more with just a touch.
What perks do you get with the myCadillac app?• Set a parking reminder• Send navigation destinations through the app to car• Remotely control vehicle features like engine start/stop• Control through vehicle monitoring and management• Request roadside assistance• View vehicle diagnostic information• Check for recallsHow do I download?• Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store• Log in to the app using your OnStar user ID and password
Checking Your Vehicle for Tire Issues
Tire maintenance is important because your tires are the only part of your car that has direct contact with the road. Tires affect your vehicle handling, ride, braking, and safety. Our team is available to help but these are great tips to know.
Checking your tires on a regular basis is an important step in protecting your safety and your automotive investment. Ideally, tire inspections should be performed monthly. If you drive over potholes and debris in the road, live in a cold climate, or drive long distances regularly, then you should inspect your tires more often.
Things to Look For:
– Over inflation: Too much air pressure causes mostly the tire’s middle section to contact the road. This creates wear primarily in the center of the tread, with less wear at the tire’s edges.- Under inflation: Too little air pressure causes mostly the tire’s outer edges to contact the road. This creates wear primarily on both edges of the tire tread, with less wear in the center.- Tread wear on one edge of the tire: This typically occurs when the wheels are out of alignment.- Erratic tread wear: This is often called cupping, and may mean the wheel is out of balance, or that the shock absorbers or other suspension components need to be replaced.- Raised portion of the tread or sidewall: May indicate that one of the belts in the tire carcass has separated from those next to it.There are several tire maintenance procedures that automotive repair professionals should do because they require special tools and knowledge. However, understanding these procedures will help you feel more confident.
Spring Driving Tips
Springtime brings rain and the aftereffects of winter weather – potholes and uneven pavement. Keep these driving tips in mind before you travel:
Spring showers bring May flowers – and wet driving conditions: Slow down on slick roads, and increase your following distance even when mist begins to fall. Just a small amount of water can mix with oil and grease on the road to create slippery conditions.Share the road: Warm weather brings out motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians.Understand the impact of medications on driving: For many people, spring means seasonal allergies. Over-the-counter allergy drugs can have side effects or interact with other medications to diminish your driving ability.If possible, go around potholes: Deep potholes can throw your car out of alignment or worse, forcing you to buy a new wheel and a new tire. You may be able to file a claim (laws differ from city to city and state to state), but you you’ll likely have to prove negligence on the part of the city.Avoid driving through large puddles: Driving through water can impair your brakes, cloud your vision, or cause you to hydroplane.Keep your tires properly inflated: Full tires can reduce the damage caused by potholes and other road hazards.
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