Autumn Maintenance
Fall is almost in full swing, and now is a great time to make sure that your car is ready for the change of weather! Here’s a great list of maintenance tips that will keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Replace your wiper blades if needed.
As the Fall season give us more precipitation, we have to use our wiper blades to increase visibility on the road. It’s easy to tell when its time to replace your wiper blades, there are visible and even audible cues. When the wipers are on, look to see if the rubber is evenly wiping. It should be a smooth movement with no streaking, smearing, or squeaking. If there are signs of this, it’s time to replace your wiper blades. When choosing a washer fluid, it’s always a good idea to find one that is meant for colder weather and will not freeze.
Check your tires.
This one is important, as your tires are the only contact your car has with the road. Perform the penny test to see where your tread is at. If you need help, our service team at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram are happy to help – and we can get you new ones if needed. To prevent uneven tread wear, ensure that they are rotated on schedule. Not only do you want the tread to be in great condition and ready for the weather, but also your tire pressure. Perform an air check on your tires regularly, especially as the weather gradually get colder. For every 10 degrees dropped, your air pressure can drop by 1 or 2 psi. If you experience a sudden shocking drop in temperature in the weather, it is possible the air pressure in your tire can drop drastically! If this change in weather occurs, double check your pressure at your closest air pump or pressure gauge. It may be a good idea to get a personal gauge.
Ensure your fluids are topped off and in good condition.
The fluids of your vehicle are important to a smooth and safe ride. As the temperature drops, the fluid in your vehicle can become thicker and slower moving throughout your engine. The Fall season is a perfect time to get any dirty fluids flushed! Be sure to check the quality of your engines fluids regularly.
Fluids include:
Antifreeze/Coolant
Oil
Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid
Power Steering
On many newer models, integrated sensors can detect the amount of select fluids you have left, as well as the quality.
Ensure your fluids are topped off and in good condition.
For more information on the best preventative Fall maintenance, call our service professionals at 509-882-5005!
Preparing Your Jeep Wrangler
Learn how to remove the doors, roof and windows from your 2019 Jeep Wrangler with these how to videos — Perfect for summer days and off-road adventures.
SPECK FAQs
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answered them all! Find answers to your service, coverage, and other questions you may have!
What is GAP coverage, and how is it beneficial for me?
GAP coverage is guaranteed asset protection, which is a contract that can be purchased to protect the consumer for being responsible for any deficiency balance if the vehicle is totalled out. What this means is if the vehicle is in an accident no matter whose fault and the insurance company does not pay off the full balance owed, GAP will pay the difference based on the terms of the policy and reimburse the collision deductible to your insurance.
What are the benefits of purchasing an extended service contract with my dealership?
Ensures that your monthly car payment budget stays fixed throughout the loan.
An extended service contract purchased through our dealership pays the full amount of labor and parts for the repair. The service contract has no limits to the number of times you can use the policy. For example, it could potentially cover thousands more than the purchase price of the contract and you cannot be dropped like you can through your personal insurance company.
How often should I get my oil changed and tires rotated?
You should get your oil changed every 3,000-5,000 miles depending on the make and model of vehicle. Our service managers are happy to review that with our customers at any time in case you forgot what your manufacturer specifications require. Tires should be rotated every other oil change to get the max life out of your tires.
How do I schedule my service appointment online?
We’ve made it easy as pie! All you have to do is go to our website, choose schedule service, and fill out your information. Simple! Here’s a quick link to easily schedule your service.
Can I trade in my vehicle if I still owe money on it?
You CAN! Most people finance their vehicles for an extended period and the dealership will insure that the full balance owed is paid off within 10 days of your purchase.
What is being “up-side down”?
It’s a term for having negative equity. If you owe more than your car is worth, that’s your negative equity. The majority of customers today are “up-side down”, because we usually finance in tax and licensing or may have traded in a vehicle before that had some negative equity. Don’t let it keep you from searching for a new vehicle, we have options.
How can a relationship with my salesperson benefit me after a sale?
A great salesperson is willing to help with vehicle maintenance and to assist with any financing questions that come up after the sale. Your salesperson at each Speck location can help schedule service appointments, get you the best price on parts (ie. tires), and help with questions about vehicle insurance and financing with your lender.
What is the difference between Autocheck & Carfax?
Both are vehicle history reports. They give customers information like where a vehicle is from, service records, and if it’s ever been part of an accident, suffered hail or fire damage, and/or insurance loss. Autocheck is owned by Experian credit bureau and the vehicle auctions report any damage they find to Autocheck that may not appear on a police record. Carfax does not receive that information from the auctions. With both reports, the information on them is only as good as what is reported to them.
Is credit score everything?
No. Although credit score is important the amount of credit a customer has and payment history installment credit (cars, homes, RV’s, etc.) is important to banks too. We help customers with a lower credit score get into a vehicle every day.
Can I get my vehicle serviced at any Speck Dealership and use my Speck rewards?
YES! Our dealership service departments are cross-trained to work on nearly every make and model.
What is a bird dog?
A bird dog is a referral of up to $200 that your salesperson will send you when you refer them to a customer when you purchase at any Speck dealership location.
What is paint protection and how does it protect my vehicle?
Paint protection is a chemical is applied to the paint to make it more fade-resistant and resistant to bird droppings, sun, and chemical deicers found on our roadways. Does not protect from rock chips but it will keep your paint glossy against the sun and other things your vehicle is exposed to. Guarantees look of paint for up to 7 years.
What information does a dealership need in order to trade a vehicle without it physically being here?
Each Speck dealership location has the ability to do sight unseen appraisals with a VIN number, accurate mileage, and a good description of the condition of the vehicle. A copy of the registration and pictures are always helpful. The Speck Family Dealerships employs drivers and has car-hauling trailers to pick up vehicles from your house, vacation house, several states away, anywhere!
Get Ready For 2020
Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Grandview has a wonderful stock of new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles. 2019 has a been a wonderful model year for these brands, with the high-tech and versatile Chrysler Pacifica to the durable and award-winning RAM 1500 and more. We’ve seen many advancements in this year, so what will 2020 have in store?
2020 Chrysler:
Chrysler is advancing and expanding their market of minivans. The 2020 Chrysler Pacifica will be an active competitor to the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and the Kia Sedona. The Pacifica will carry the same tried and true 3.6-Liter V6 engine. Production is estimated to begin in August of 2019, along with Chrysler’s 2020 Voyager. Formerly the Plymouth Voyager, the name is making a comeback. The Pacifica’s lower-end trim levels will evolve into the 2020 Chrysler Voyager, carrying the same 3.6L V6 engine found in the Pacifica.
2020 Dodge:
In classic Dodge style, the muscle brand is continuing to beef up their garage. The 2020 Charger is becoming more fierce with it’s upper-end SRT Hellcat, adding a widebody package to the mix, creating a more aggressive look, and the capability to support wider tires. The widebody will come standard on the SRT Hellcat, and available on the Scat Pack. Dealerships are able to order these widebody models in the Fall of 2019. As America’s only 4-door muscle car, this beast can take the family for a spin.
Before the Charger, came the Challenger. The 2020 Dodge Challenger is in speculation as to what you may find in the newest model. There are rumors of a new Challenger making it’s way to production to top the award-winning Challenger Hellcat Demon, and Challenger Hellcat Redeye. Find out more here.
You may also hear of a familiar model coming back – the Dodge Viper. There are not many official details regarding the comeback of the Viper, but you may see these on the road by the end of 2020, or early 2021.
Along with the 2020 Journey, there won’t be too many updates on the 2020 Dodge Durango, but just like their history, Dodge is only getting better.
2020 Jeep:
When you say Jeep, that iconic seven-slot grille comes to mind. Towards the end of 2018, Jeep revealed it’s plans for the 2020 Gladiator, a pick-up truck with many undeniable Jeep elements. Depending on the trim selection, the Gladiator can tow up to 7,650lbs! Check out our blog post on the 2020 Gladiator here.
Along with an updated 2020 Jeep Wrangler, you can soon meet a fuel-efficient Wrangler Hybrid. Jeep has mentioned that any plug-in/hybrid features will not take away from the off-road capabilities that make the Jeep… well.. a Jeep. The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Hybrid PHEV has been spotted during routine testing recently, and may make its way to dealerships by early 2020.
The Gladiator is not the only model being revived by Jeep, remember the Wagoneer? That’s coming back, too. In history, this model has made it through many Jeep generations, from Willys-Overland to the now Chrysler – and the revival is set to compete will the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. There is only a possibility this will be seen in the 2020 model year, but it may have to wait until 2021. Along with these model, you’ll find updates on the 2020 Jeep Renegade, Grand Cherokee, and Compass.
If you can’t wait until 2020, check out the amazing 2019’s on our site.
2020 RAM:
Like Jeep’s Wrangler plug-in, the 2020 RAM 1500 is becoming more fuel-efficient without losing any important capabilities. A 3.6L V6 Engine with an eTorque mild hybrid system saves gas, while providing up to 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. There are two other engine options including the 5.7L V8 which also includes the hybrid system, but provides 395 horsepower with 410 lb-ft of torque. The diesel upgrade involves a previously sported 3.0L Turbo-Diesel V6.
RAM is known for great, quality trucks – with high-tech options. The new 2020 RAM 2500 & 3500 HD will hold a 6.4L V8 Engine – and for extra performance, and optional 6.7L Cummins Turbo-Diesel Engine. Learn more about the 2020 RAM trucks by contact our sales experts at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram at 888-864-8229!
Get Road Trip Ready
One of the best and iconic things to do in the summertime is a great road trip. Enjoying time with family and friends with music, games, and conversations that create memories. To ensure a fun time, it’s always best to be prepared. Forgetting something important when you’re in the middle of nowhere or far away from home can be extremely frustrating. We’ve created a list of things to do and pack before you take off for your adventure.
1. Take Care of Your Vehicle
We’ve listed this as number one because the vehicle is the root of your road trip! It’s going to get you from A to B, while carrying your friends and family, so it’s important to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly and safely. This includes checking fluids, lights, spare tire, and making sure tire tread is healthy. Browse tires online or schedule your appointment, our expert mechanics would be more than happy to ensure your vehicle is road trip ready!
2. Have a Travel Plan
No, you don’t need to mark that 10:02am will be the first bathroom stop. The best way to plan your road trip isn’t with more numbers, but a rough estimate. Delays are to be expected on any long distance trip, and adjustments may have to be made. Make room for any adjustments. Accidents, traffic jams, closed roads, hotel closures, and even extra stops for snacks or sight-seeing are all typical incidents you can run into. Have a plan, but have fun too!
3. Keep Passengers Entertained
Whether you have kids in the back or your best friends behind you, it is always important to keep them entertained. Keeping your mind occupied makes the trip go by faster – time flies when you’re having fun! Of course, it can be easy if you’re vehicle has integrated features such as entertainment screens.
Crank up the tunes! Make sure you have plenty on your playlist, or a designated DJ. Looking at your phone to change songs should never be done while driving. When creating your playlist, consider all those coming with you and choose songs that you know will get everyone in the mood for adventure. There are plenty of fun road trip games you can play with your passengers as well. Check out this awesome article from Thought Catalog, it’s full of great games ideas!
Are you trying to figure out where you want to go?
Here are some great road trip ideas in our beautiful state of Washington!
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.
Back and Better than Ever: The 2020 Jeep Gladiator
The 2020 model year reintroduces the redesigned Jeep Gladiator. In 1963, the Gladiator was introduced as a tough full-size pickup, nicknamed a “beautiful brute”. The named was eventually dropped in 1971.
In 2020, the legendary Jeep Gladiator offers four different trim levels. They all share the same engine power, with a 3.6-Liter V-6 24V VVT w/ ESS under the hood. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual, or an optional 8-speed automatic 850RE transmission.
- Sport
- Sport S
- Overland
- Rubicon
Jeep Gladiator Payload and Towing
This Gladiator can haul! The Sport and Sport S models can carry a payload of 1,600lbs*; the Overland can haul 1,140lbs*, and the Rubicon model carries up to 1,190lbs.*. However, the towing capacity depends on the trim level.
- Sport and Sport S can tow up to 7,650 lbs.
- Overland can haul up to 6,000 lbs.
- Rubicon model is capable of towing up to 7,000lbs.
Gladiator Exterior Colors and Highlights
The exterior of the 2020 Jeep Gladiator is all Jeep, and all truck. The iconic Jeep design is shown through the classic seven-slot grill, and comes in many different color options to match your style!
The Gladiator’s interior was designed to be an up-to-date modern style, but with tribute to Jeep history. The instrument panel’s simple yet functional design was an ode to some 1941 & 1957 Jeep models, especially the classic Willys MB. This Jeep’s back seat was designed with plenty of functionality, more than that of other Jeep models. The seat cushions lift up for extra cargo space, as well as fold down for even more room. And in classic Jeep fashion, you can remove the door as well as the roof!
Gladiator Safety Features
Jeep’s 2020 Gladiator is a powerhouse of safety, including:
- The integrated Advanced Multistage Air Bags deploy depending on force of impact to prevent air bag injury and to create extra security.
- Electronic Roll Mitigation will release brake pressure and lessen the amount of torque being applied to the engine to prevent a potential roll over.
- Electronic Stability Control keeps the vehicle stable in a situation where needed, such as rugged terrain or a quick, defensive maneuver.
- Rear Back-Up Camera is effective where mirrors are not. Presents a camera display on the main touchscreen to provide a view behind the Jeep when in reverse.
Jeep Gladiator Interior Highlights
There are so many more great features the Gladiator offers., but below are some of our favorites:
- Touch Display: Depending on the choice of model, the touch display comes in a size of either 5.0 inch, 7.0 inch, or a large optional 8.4 inch display on the Rubicon trim. Google Android Auto® or Apple CarPlay® are standard on the Overland & Rubicon trims, and an option for the Sport S.
- Alpine® Premium Audio System: Optional on the Sport S, Overland, and Rubicon, the Alpine Audio System provides quality sound for the Jeep Gladiator.
- Leather Seating: Available on the Overland & Rubicon models.
- Bluetooth Wireless Speaker: This Optional feature is perfect for any adventure! With a special built-in storage space for this device in the 2020 Gladiator, it’s easy to take anywhere and charges during the drive. The speaker is water resistant for 3 feet, up to 30 minutes.
As Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram receives more 2020 Gladiators in the future, be sure to check out our selection!
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.
Tires: Rubber Evolved
Tires have been a part of car history as long as we can remember. Obviously, we’ve come a very long way since the wheel was invented. As time went on, the original wheel – which was made of solid wood – was covered with leather, and eventually rubber to soften the ride.
Mr. Charles Goodyear, created the vulcanization process, which is heating rubber with sulfur to make the rubber a firmer material, making it perfect for tires. At this point, they were made of solid rubber.
Robert W. Thomson is credited for creating the first air-filled tire, and even had the design patented as well. But, in 1888, John Dunlop claimed the invention of the pneumatic, air-filled tire and with no knowledge of Thomson’s work. The pneumatic tire eventually became a commercial hit.
Since then, different types of tires have been invented to do a variety of jobs. You can learn more about bias ply, radial tires, and more here: https://www.continentaltire.com/content/history-passenger-tire
Here are some great and interesting facts about the invention that has helped us moved forward:
- Airplane tires are filled with Nitrogen. When a plane hits the runway, there’s a large amount of friction, pressure, and heat that builds within the tire. If the tire was filled with oxygen, the oxygen will react with all of this and the tire could pop. Nitrogen takes much more energy to react, and keeps hold when in different pressures and temperatures.
- Lego produces about 318 million tires a year,
which is actually more than any other tire manufacturer.
- You can check when your tire was made! Each tire in the US has an identification number, just like the VIN on a vehicle, but this one is a TIN. Find it on the sidewall, after the letter “DOT”. The last four numbers will tell you which week (01-53) of what year your tire was made if it was made in the year 2000 or later.
- The rubber tires are made of is initially white. Carbon black is added to reduce hotspots and increase the strength and durability. Prior to this, zinc oxide was once added to early tires, making them turn white.
- You can order tires online on https://www.speckcdjr.com/tire-finder.html. Our Service Experts here at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM will get you taken care of with your tire needs!
Did you know the 2019 RAM 1500 is the winner of Truck Trend’s 2019 Pick-Up of the Year? Out of so many great options out there, the battle was a close one. The scoring of these trucks is based off of many different factors.
Here’s a breakdown of how much weight each category has on the final score:
15% — Tow and Haul
This category measures how the truck performs & reacts when given maximum payload and a class-specific weighted trailer.
15% — Highway Performance
How does the steering feel? How does the vehicle handle when moving at high speeds? These are the types of things that are judged in the category of highway performance.
15% — Offroad Performance
This is one is pretty self-explanatory – can this truck handle the off-road? This is the evaluation of tire performance, traction aids, four-wheel-drive system, and all that is off the road.
15% — Functionality
The test of functionality includes the easy-to-use technology, passing power,
and more. How easy does the integrated tech make your daily drive?
20% — Empirical Data
Empirical Data is all the numbers. From braking power, loaded/unloaded acceleration,
fuel economy, MSRP, and more. This particular category holds the most weight in
the competition because this data is truly what makes the truck worth the
dollars you pay. Which we must mention again – The RAM 1500’s got it in the
bag.
10% — Exterior
Basically: Are you driving in style? This also includes any extra features to
your truck to make it, well, extra.
10% — Interior
Comfy seats? Check. Extra room for cargo? Check. Is the leather extra leathery?
Yes. This category tests all these things, including instrumentation, appearances,
technology, and more.
Wanna know what the RAM and its competition scored? Check it out here!
We invite everyone from the area to take a look at these wonderful trucks! We happily serve the Yakima, Sunnyside, Grandview, Prosser, Richland, Kennewick and Pasco area with our RAM prowess. Join us today at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM in Grandview to get into Truck Trend’s 2019 Pick-Up of the Year!
Let’s Go Jeeping
Use your Jeep to explore what’s out there, beyond the pavement!
Here at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, off-road is a way of life. There is nothing like the feeling of escaping the roads and venturing to the unknown.
We’ve listed a few great places around the area to take advantage of the outdoors, off the road! Jeeping is a way of life.
Naches Trail (Moderate)
Greenwater, WA
Over 12 miles long, this trail is easy for most 4×4 vehicles and anyone who may be new to going off the road. This trail is full of history and even connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, which connects Mexico to Canada. You’ll find this easy-jeeping area right after you pass through Greenwater on WA-210.
Bethel Ridge (Easy)
Naches, WA
If you are trying to reach a gorgeous view, this is the ideal spot for you. Once you make it to the top you can see Rimrock Lake, and if on a clear day, Mt. Adams! This is one of the highest trails in Washington state.
Yakima Rim Trail (Moderate)
Selah, WA
Another with a great view, this route is a great place to go. The Yakima Canyon offers fields of flowers and wildlife including bighorn sheep, pelicans, and more. You must have a Discovery Pass to use this trail.
Ahtanum Ridge (Easy)
Yakima, WA
Just south of Yakima, this trail is a part of the Green Dot routes, which are special routes under an agreement to limit the use of motorized vehicles to conserve wildlife and the geographical environment. You must be considerate not to stray off this trail.
Green Dot trails are a great resource to finding all the places you can bring your Jeep on a real adventure – they’ve been pre-approved to take on your 4 x 4!
Juniper Dunes (Moderate – Tough, fun!)
Pasco, WA
Experience the dunes just 7 miles outside of Pasco! You must have a high-clearance 4×4 to make it through the Wilderness Trail, to the gate. This is definitely worth checking out!
Take your new Jeep on a journey this summer and explore the world around you!
Here are a few wonderful resources to finding your next Jeeping trail:
http://nwjeepn.com/WAtrails.htm
https://www.alltrails.com/us/washington/off-road-driving
Be sure to check out our amazing selection of Jeeps! Wranglers, Cherokees, Renegades, and more here at Speck Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Grandview.
Brain Food: Car Words
Have you ever wondered where we get some of these crazy terms in the car industry? Here’s a bit of history that may give you some insight as to how these terms came to be.
Car:
“Car” is a word derived from Celtic origin – originally karros, and seen in many other languages including Anglo-French (carre), Latin (carrum). When railroads were a popular form of transportation between 1831 to the first decade of the 20th century, “cars” were referred to the railroad train. “Car” eventually evolved into regular vocabulary as automobiles became more popular.
Vehicle:
First recorded in the 1600’s, vehicle derives from Latin vehiculum, which is defined as “means of transport, carriage, conveyance”. Vehicle was used in many different contexts throughout history, including in early medicine – “a medium in which a drug or medicine is administered”.
Transmission:
Also found as early as the 1600’s, originating from transmissionem in Latin, transmission is defined as “conveyance from one place to another” and “to send over or across”. The transmission in automobiles is what regulates and sends power from the engine to the axle.
Horsepower:
This word was coined by Scottish Engineer James Watts to compare the power of draft horses to the output of power from steam engines, and eventually was used in comparison with piston engines, electric motors, and more. During this time, the definition of horsepower was established as the power needed to lift and move 33,000lbs one foot in one minute – which is about 1.5 times the power of a strong draft horse.
Soup:
Have you ever heard of a “souped-up” engine? Going hand in hand with horsepower, soup was slang term in the 1920’s for medicines injected into horses to make them run faster. Nowadays, we soup up our engines to make them as fast as we want.
Torque:
Meaning “rotating force”, the term torque was originally derived from Latin torquere, which means “to twist, turn”. This word has been used outside of automobiles for a long time as both a verb, adjective, and noun – some recordings as early as the 1500’s.
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