What started out as a way to view your car’s rear view camera soon started displaying everything from your radio, temperature controls and everything in between. They’re in almost every new car on the market, and their prominence is only going to increase in the coming years. But do we really need car touch screens?

The answer, it turns out, is a resounding yes… and no.

On the one hand, car touch screens make it easier than ever to control your car’s various systems. You can change the music, turn on the AC, and even adjust your seats without ever taking your hands off the wheel.

On the other hand, car touch screens can be dangerously distracting. Especially if you are not that familiar with where  all the controls are. It can take your eyes off the road for vital seconds that could mean the difference between life and death.

While touchscreen displays can be distracting, many car manufacturers are trying to design them in a way that minimizes driver distraction. Some features that are being implemented include:

- touch screens that can disappear into the dashboard

- voice controls

- heads-up displays that project images onto the windshield

- gesture controls

Ultimately, it is up to the driver to decide if a car touch screen is right for them. If you can use it without taking your eyes off the road, then it can be a valuable asset. But if you find yourself constantly fumbling with the controls, it might be best to stick with good old-fashioned buttons and knobs.

One of the best ways to keep your car on the road longer is to perform regular maintenance. This includes things like oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune-ups. By keeping up with these simple tasks, you can avoid more serious and expensive problems down the road.

Spark Plugs And Wires

In addition to regular maintenance, changing your spark plugs and wires proactively help extend the life of your car. Over time, these parts can wear out and cause problems with your engine.

Cabin Filter and Air Filter

Change your cabin air filter and engine air filter. One affects the airflow in your car and the other affects the airflow to your engine. Both are important for keeping your car running smoothly.

Fuel Injectors & EGR Valves

Check your fuel injectors.  Although not part of a standard service maintenance schedule, they start to deteriorate. You'll have a check engine light come on. Another major component that a lot of people fail to talk about when they just tune ups is the EGR valve or the exhaust gas recirculation valve. These should be checked and replaced according to your manufacturer's recommendations.

A faulty EGR valve can cause  all sorts of engine performance problems, including a loss of power and fuel economy.

Tires

Most people recognize the importance of having good tires on your car for  traction, safety, and gas mileage. But did you know that the condition of your tires can also have an impact on your electrical components. It's possible to have vibrations from your tires that will loosen battery terminals and other electrical connections. So, not only do you want to have good tread on your tires for safety, but you also want to keep an eye on any loose wires  or terminals.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your car running smoothly for years to come.

I know, we're not supposed to give away all of our secrets.

As a used car dealership, we're supposed to pushy and non-negotiable. At Carfinity, we don't believe in that. In fact, we LIKE educated consumers! We don't push or haggle you to death. We believe in treating people how we like to be treated, because we've all bought a car before. Too often, we see consumers who don't know where to start. All they know is what they've been told. Don't trust car dealers, never tell them what you have as a down payment or what you owe on your trade. If the car is priced at $20,000, they paid $10,000. Unfortunately, the old myths aren't true. So how does a new buyer know where to start? Well, a trustworthy car dealer as your friend is always the way to go!

So, we figured we'd make some new friends?? We're here to tell you HOW to shop for a used car.

ALWAYS BE HONEST

You're asking to borrow money. The bank or dealership is going to find out the truth. You're more likely to get approved by being honest with your Finance Manager and asking their advice. They know the banks, and most likely have good relationships with their lenders. They can pull favors for people they like. If you waste their time, lie or bring in fake documents, you're chances of getting a favor are minimal.

COME IN PREPARED

Bring your 2 most recent paystubs, the most money that you can down and documents to support your address. If the dealership has everything they need, they're more likely to work hard to get you a good approval!

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Check out the dealership's reviews before calling or stopping in. Research the car you're looking at with J.D.Power or Consumer Reports. Make sure it's what you want! Banks are weary of people who are unsure of the vehicle they are buying. Changing cars once approved is more likely to get you declined. Its all logic. A person is more likely to pay for something they truly want than a car they're not sure about.

When you go in, test drive the car before filling out a credit application. That will reduce the likelihood of having to change cars.

Also do your homework on pricing. Everyone knows that pricing has changed drastically due to COVID.

DON'T OVERHAGGLE

There's nothing wrong with asking if the dealership offers discounts, such as military, employer or student. However, since COVID dealers are struggling. The chip shortage led to a snowball effect, leaving used cars dealers especially, struggling to get inventory. The days of dealers having large margins are long gone. Remember they're a business with overhead, employees and trying to sell good cars. Beating them up on the price will probably lose you the deal. The fact is, for every car, there's 2 or 3 buyers. While we want and need your business, we simply can't afford any more losses. We'll be more eager to help you if you check the price prior to coming in and ask rather than assume. We'll be honest and do whatever we can to make the deal work!

UNDERSTAND YOUR CREDIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR

Unless you're paying cash, financing is the name of the game.

-Katherine Bernardi