Year-End Car Buying: Why November and December Are Great Months to Buy a New CDJR

If you own a diesel Ram truck in the Yakima Valley or Tri-Cities area, you may have wondered whether a block heater is worth the investment during Eastern Washington winters. Cold weather and diesel engines have a complicated relationship that every Ram diesel owner in Washington State should understand. Here is everything you need to know about block heaters for diesel Ram trucks from our team at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside. What Is a Block Heater? A block heater is an electric heating element installed directly into your engine block that keeps coolant and internal components warm during cold overnight parking. Most diesel Ram trucks including the Ram 2500 and Ram 3500 with the available 6.7L Cummins diesel come with a factory-installed block heater already in place. The block heater plugs into a standard 110 to 120 volt electrical outlet using a power cord typically routed through the front grille area of your truck. Why Diesel Engines Struggle in Cold Weather Higher Compression Requirements Diesel engines ignite fuel through compression heat rather than spark plugs. Cold temperatures reduce the compression heat available during cranking making cold diesel starts significantly harder than warm weather starts. Thicker Oil in Cold Temperatures Diesel engines typically use heavier viscosity oil creating more resistance during cold weather cranking. A block heater keeps your oil warmer and more fluid reducing the resistance your starter system faces during cold Yakima Valley winter mornings. Glow Plugs Work Harder Extremely cold temperatures force your glow plugs to work longer and harder before the engine will fire. A block heater reduces the glow plug workload by pre-warming the engine before your glow plug cycle begins each morning. Diesel Fuel Gelling Diesel fuel can begin to gel in extremely cold temperatures reducing fuel flow to your injection system. A block heater helps maintain fuel system temperatures that reduce the risk of diesel fuel gelling during the coldest Yakima Valley winter nights. Do You Need a Block Heater in Eastern Washington? The answer for most Yakima Valley and Tri-Cities diesel Ram owners is yes. Here is why: Eastern Washington Winter Temperatures Sunnyside, Prosser, Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco regularly experience overnight lows dropping into the teens and single digits during peak winter months. The Cummins diesel in your Ram 2500 or Ram 3500 performs significantly better on cold Washington mornings when pre-warmed with a block heater the night before. Agricultural Operations Yakima Valley farmers and ranchers who rely on their diesel Ram trucks for early morning harvest and livestock operations cannot afford a no-start situation during critical periods. A block heater provides the insurance of reliable cold weather starting when your farm operation depends on your truck being ready before sunrise. Mountain Pass Trips Ram diesel owners who regularly travel Cascade mountain passes on US-12 or Snoqualmie Pass encounter significantly colder temperatures at elevation. Parking overnight at mountain destinations where temperatures can drop well below zero makes a block heater essentially mandatory for reliable cold morning starting. At What Temperature Should You Plug In? Overnight Low Temperature Block Heater Recommendation Above 20°F Optional but beneficial for easier starts 10°F to 20°F Recommended for reliable cold morning starts 0°F to 10°F Strongly recommended for all diesel Ram owners Below 0°F Essential for reliable starting and engine protection Most diesel truck experts recommend plugging in your block heater when overnight temperatures are expected to drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. How Long Should You Leave It Plugged In? Minimum Time Plug in your block heater for at least two hours before your planned startup for meaningful cold weather benefit. Optimal Time Most diesel experts recommend four to eight hours before startup for optimal cold weather performance. Many Eastern Washington diesel Ram owners simply plug in before bed and unplug before their morning commute. Use a Timer Consider using an inexpensive outlet timer to automatically engage your block heater two to four hours before your typical morning departure. A timer eliminates the need to remember to plug in each night and prevents unnecessary electricity consumption of running the heater all night long. Block Heater vs Other Cold Weather Solutions Block Heater vs Battery Blanket A block heater warms your engine while a battery blanket warms your battery directly. Both are valuable cold weather tools and many serious diesel Ram owners in Eastern Washington use both simultaneously during the coldest winter nights. Block Heater vs Diesel Fuel Additives Diesel fuel additives help prevent fuel gelling but do not warm your engine or reduce oil viscosity like a block heater does. Anti-gel additives and a block heater are complementary solutions many Eastern Washington diesel Ram owners use together during peak winter months. Block Heater vs Synthetic Oil Switching to full synthetic engine oil with a lower cold temperature viscosity significantly improves cold weather start performance. Using full synthetic oil and a block heater together provides the best possible cold weather protection for your diesel Ram during Eastern Washington winters. How to Use Your Block Heater Step 1: Locate the Power Cord Your Ram 2500 or Ram 3500 block heater power cord is typically routed through the front grille area. Look for an orange or black power cord with a standard three-prong plug near the lower front grille opening. Step 2: Connect to a Grounded Outlet Plug your block heater into a grounded 110 to 120 volt outdoor-rated electrical outlet. Always use a heavy-duty outdoor-rated extension cord if your parking location requires one. Step 3: Verify Connection Many block heaters have a small indicator light that illuminates when operating correctly. Check for this indicator light after plugging in to verify your block heater is functioning as expected. Step 4: Unplug Before Starting Always unplug your block heater before starting and moving your Ram truck. Driving away with the power cord still connected can damage your block heater, cord, outlet, and anything in the cord's path. Is Your Block Heater Working? Touch Test After plugging in for two to three hours, carefully feel the upper radiator hose near the engine. A functioning block heater warms the coolant making the upper radiator hose noticeably warmer than ambient temperature. A hose that remains cold after several hours may indicate a failed block heater element. Have It Tested at Speck CDJR If you are not sure whether your diesel Ram's block heater is functioning correctly, bring it to our service team at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside for a quick professional test. We can verify block heater function and replace a failed heating element before the coldest Eastern Washington temperatures arrive. Schedule Your Diesel Ram Service at Speck CDJR Ready to prepare your diesel Ram for Eastern Washington winter with a block heater test, oil change, and complete winter inspection? Our certified service team at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside is ready to help. Here is how to schedule your appointment today: Online: Visit our website and click "Schedule Service" By Phone: Call our service department directly Walk-In: Stop by during service hours for same-day diesel Ram service Do not let a cold Eastern Washington winter morning reveal a failed block heater in your diesel Ram. Stop by Speck CDJR in Sunnyside today and let our certified team make sure your Cummins diesel is ready to start reliably on every cold morning this winter season. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.

If you own a new Jeep, Ram, or Dodge vehicle, you may have access to one of the most convenient features available on any modern vehicle today. Remote start allows you to start your engine from virtually anywhere using your key fob or the Uconnect smartphone app. Here is everything Sunnyside and Yakima Valley CDJR owners need to know about remote start from our team at Speck CDJR. Why Remote Start Matters in the Yakima Valley Summer Heat Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, and Sunnyside regularly experience summer temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. A vehicle parked in the sun can reach interior temperatures of 140 to 160 degrees during peak summer heat. Remote starting your Jeep, Ram, or Dodge 10 to 15 minutes before you get in allows the AC to cool the interior to a comfortable temperature before you ever open the door. Winter Cold Eastern Washington winters bring freezing temperatures that make cold vehicle interiors genuinely uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Remote starting your vehicle before departure allows the heater to warm the cabin and begin defrosting your windshield. A pre-warmed engine also reduces cold start wear on internal components during frigid Yakima Valley winter mornings. How Does Remote Start Work? When you activate remote start, a signal is sent to your vehicle's body control module instructing it to start the engine. Your vehicle checks several safety conditions before allowing the engine to start remotely. All doors must be closed and locked, the hood must be fully closed, and the transmission must be in Park. Your engine then runs at idle for a preset period while your climate control activates based on your last settings. Remote Start Safety Features The transmission must be in Park before remote start will activate All doors must be closed and the vehicle must be locked before remote start is available If someone opens a door during a remote start session the engine shuts down automatically Pressing the brake pedal during remote start shuts the engine off unless a valid key is present The engine automatically shuts off after the preset run time if you do not enter and drive Using Remote Start With Your Key Fob Press the lock button once on your key fob to ensure your vehicle is locked. Then press and hold the remote start button marked with a circular arrow symbol for approximately two seconds. Your vehicle's lights will flash and the engine will begin running. Standard key fob remote start typically works within a range of approximately 100 to 300 feet depending on your specific vehicle and any obstructions. Using Remote Start With the Uconnect App The Uconnect app provides significantly more capability than the standard key fob including virtually unlimited remote start range from anywhere with a cellular signal. Here is how to get set up and use remote start through the Uconnect app: Step 1: Download the Uconnect App Download the free Uconnect app from the App Store on iPhone or Google Play Store on Android. Step 2: Create Your Account and Add Your Vehicle Create a free Uconnect account and add your vehicle by entering your VIN or scanning the QR code in your owner information packet. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the vehicle registration and pairing process. Step 3: Activate Your Connected Services Subscription Remote start through the Uconnect app requires an active connected services subscription. New vehicle purchases typically include a trial period at no additional cost. Contact our team at Speck CDJR for current subscription pricing and options for your specific vehicle. Step 4: Remote Start Your Vehicle Open the Uconnect app and tap the Remote Start button on the home screen. Confirm the activation and the app sends the start command to your vehicle through the cellular network. You will receive a confirmation notification within a few seconds confirming your vehicle has started successfully. Step 5: Enter and Drive Enter your vehicle normally and press the brake pedal with your key fob or phone present. Your vehicle seamlessly transitions from remote start mode to normal driving mode without any interruption. Uconnect App Remote Start Tips Set a Comfortable Pre-Drive Temperature Always set your climate control to your preferred temperature before exiting your vehicle each day. Your Jeep, Ram, or Dodge will use those settings automatically during the next remote start session. Use the Scheduled Start Feature Many Uconnect vehicles support a scheduled remote start that automatically starts your vehicle at a preset time each morning. Set a scheduled start for 15 minutes before your typical departure time during summer and winter months. Check Your Vehicle Status Before Remote Starting Verify that all doors are closed and the vehicle is locked before attempting a remote start. A door or hood that is ajar will prevent remote start from activating regardless of how many times you attempt it. Which Models Have Remote Start? Remote start is available on a wide range of Jeep, Ram, and Dodge models at Speck CDJR. Here is a general overview: Jeep: Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, and Compass on select trims Ram: Ram 1500, Ram 2500 HD, and Ram 3500 HD on select trims Dodge: Dodge Durango and Dodge Hornet on select trims Always verify remote start availability on your specific trim level with our team at Speck CDJR before purchasing. Remote start availability varies by trim and may require a specific technology or convenience package. Get Help Setting Up Remote Start at Speck CDJR Have questions about setting up remote start or the Uconnect app on your Jeep, Ram, or Dodge? Our team at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside is here to help you get the most out of every feature in your new vehicle. Here is how to reach us: Online: Visit our website and submit an inquiry or schedule a technology walkthrough By Phone: Call our sales or service team directly Walk-In: Stop by during business hours for a complete remote start setup walkthrough We want every Speck CDJR customer to feel completely comfortable with every feature in their new vehicle. Stop by Speck CDJR in Sunnyside today and let our team walk you through the complete Uconnect remote start setup process.

If you are searching for a car dealer near Yakima, Grandview, or Toppenish, Speck CDJR in Sunnyside is closer than you might think. We are the Yakima Valley's trusted Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram dealer serving communities across the entire region every single day. Here is why local drivers from Yakima, Grandview, Toppenish, and surrounding communities consistently choose Speck CDJR. Where We Are and How Close We Are to You Speck CDJR is located at 125 E Allen Rd in Sunnyside, Washington right in the heart of the Yakima Valley. Community Approximate Distance Approximate Drive Time Grandview 8 miles Approximately 10 minutes Toppenish 18 miles Approximately 20 minutes Yakima 35 miles Approximately 35 minutes Prosser 20 miles Approximately 20 minutes Kennewick 55 miles Approximately 50 minutes For Grandview and Toppenish drivers, Speck CDJR is genuinely the closest CDJR dealer in the area. For Yakima drivers, we are a short and easy drive down I-82 with a full CDJR inventory waiting when you arrive. Why Drivers from Yakima Choose Speck CDJR A Full CDJR Inventory Speck CDJR carries a comprehensive inventory of new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles across every model and trim level. Yakima area buyers who want specific configurations often find exactly what they are looking for in our Sunnyside inventory. Competitive and Transparent Pricing Many Yakima area buyers drive to Speck CDJR because they find our pricing and transparency refreshing compared to larger metro dealerships. Our finance team shops your application across multiple lenders to find the best available rate for your specific credit situation. Personalized Service From People Who Know the Valley Our team members are Yakima Valley residents who understand the specific needs and lifestyle of local drivers. We know Eastern Washington roads, agricultural demands, and the unique driving conditions that Yakima Valley buyers face every day. Why Grandview Drivers Choose Speck CDJR Just 10 Minutes Away At approximately 8 miles from Grandview, Speck CDJR is a quick 10 minute drive down Highway 12 from your front door. There is no need for Grandview buyers to travel to Yakima or the Tri-Cities for CDJR sales and service. Service and Parts You Can Count On Our certified service center serves Grandview drivers for all routine and major maintenance needs. From oil changes and tire rotations to major repairs and recall services, our certified technicians use Genuine Mopar OEM parts on every vehicle we service. ITIN and Bilingual Financing Available Grandview is a vibrant and diverse community and our finance team is proud to serve every member of our local community. We offer ITIN financing for buyers without a Social Security Number and our bilingual team assists Spanish-speaking customers through every step of the buying process. Why Toppenish Drivers Choose Speck CDJR The Right Trucks for Toppenish Work and Lifestyle Toppenish and the surrounding agricultural community demand trucks that can handle serious work and rural driving conditions. Our Ram truck lineup including the Ram 1500, Ram 2500, and Ram 3500 is specifically chosen to serve the towing and hauling needs of the Toppenish area community. Jeep for Yakima Valley Terrain Toppenish area drivers who love exploring Eastern Washington's diverse terrain find our Jeep lineup perfectly suited to their adventurous lifestyle. From the capable Jeep Wrangler to the versatile Jeep Grand Cherokee, our Jeep inventory serves every Toppenish area off-road enthusiast. Community-Focused Buying Experience At Speck CDJR we treat every Toppenish area buyer as a valued community neighbor rather than just a transaction. Our no-pressure sales approach and transparent pricing make the vehicle buying process comfortable and stress-free. What Makes Speck CDJR Different You Are Not a Number At Speck CDJR our team knows many customers by name and takes genuine pride in building long-term relationships with every Yakima Valley buyer. Many of our customers have purchased multiple vehicles from us over the years because they trust our team completely. Faster and More Personal Service Our service department moves faster and communicates more personally than high-volume metro dealerships. When you bring your vehicle in, our team gives you a clear timeline, regular updates, and transparent pricing without the runaround. Supporting the Local Yakima Valley Economy When you buy and service your vehicle at Speck CDJR, your dollars stay in the Yakima Valley community you live and work in every day. Our Vehicle Lineup at Speck CDJR Ram Trucks Ram 1500: Half-ton workhorse with available Cummins diesel and class-leading interior quality Ram 2500: Heavy-duty hauler for maximum towing capability across Eastern Washington Ram 3500: Maximum capability for the most demanding commercial and agricultural applications Jeep Jeep Wrangler: The iconic off-road SUV built for Yakima Valley adventure Jeep Gladiator: The only midsize Jeep pickup combining off-road capability with truck utility Jeep Grand Cherokee: Premium midsize SUV with available 4xe plug-in hybrid technology Dodge and Chrysler Dodge Durango: Three-row family SUV with available V8 power and genuine towing capability Chrysler Pacifica: America's most awarded minivan with available plug-in hybrid technology Financing for Every Yakima Valley Buyer Our finance team works with a wide network of local credit unions and national lenders to find the best available financing for every buyer. Here is what sets our financing apart: We work with buyers at every credit level including bad credit and first-time buyers ITIN financing available for buyers without a Social Security Number Bilingual finance team members for Spanish-speaking customers No pressure and no hidden fees throughout the entire financing process Same-day approval available in most financing situations Used Vehicles for Every Budget Speck CDJR maintains a diverse selection of quality pre-owned vehicles across all makes and models. Every used vehicle comes with a free CARFAX Vehicle History Report so Yakima, Grandview, and Toppenish area buyers can purchase with complete confidence and full transparency. Schedule Your Visit to Speck CDJR in Sunnyside Ready to visit your local car dealer near Yakima, Grandview, and Toppenish at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside? Our team is ready to welcome you and help you find the perfect new or used vehicle for your Yakima Valley lifestyle and budget. Here is how to get started: Online: Browse our complete new and used inventory on our website By Phone: Call our sales team directly to discuss your vehicle needs Walk-In: Stop by during business hours at 125 E Allen Rd in Sunnyside We serve Sunnyside, Grandview, Toppenish, Yakima, Prosser, Kennewick, Richland, Pasco, and the entire Yakima Valley. Come see us at Speck CDJR in Sunnyside today and experience the difference that a local and community-focused dealership makes.