NJ New Car Sales Are Up in 2015

2009 was not a great year for auto dealerships in NJ. In fact, it was not a great year for the country as we were in the middle of the biggest recession of our generation. The last thing most families could afford was a new automobile. 2009 was the worst year for auto dealerships in NJ in more than 20 years. However, each year the numbers have slowly improved, and the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers Sales reported a 6% increase in sales in 2014 from the year before. In total, sales for 2014 were $32 billion. Although the year is only half over, the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers Sales estimates that 2015 may be even bigger.

Why the increase in automotive sales? First and foremost, the economy has improved significantly from 2009. The job market, especially for new graduates, has rebounded, and more Americans report that they have more dispensable income. Additionally, with gas prices and the emergence of hybrid technology, Americans see a new car purchase as an investment in a greener way to travel. Finally, there's dependability. New cars are more dependable and safe than models from ten years ago, providing new families with peace of mind every time they go on the road.

Whether you're looking for new or used car dealers in NJ, remember to choose a dealer you can trust with a robust inventory, affordable pricing, generous trade options, financing and more. 1800 Autoland on RT. 22 in Springfield, NJ has been a top choice for NJ motorists for years. We offer new and used models from Chrysler, Toyota, Jeep, and Dodge, and you won't find a better price anywhere else. Don't believe us? Visit our lot today at 170 Rt. 22 E, Springfield, NJ or visit us online to check out our latest models and promotions.

If you're in the market for a car (and by the numbers reported, you might be) choose 1800 Autoland!Rt. 22 E, Springfield, NJ

8 Things that You Should Regularly Check on Your Car

A vehicle is a big investment. In fact, next to a home, a vehicle is the second biggest purchase most people make. That being said, it's important to maintain your vehicle so that it stays in good, functional condition for as long as possible. As your leading car dealer in NJ, we examined eight things that you should check frequently. These tips from Autoland will not only keep your vehicle running, but help you to avoid unnecessary and costly fixes.

1. Listen to Your Brakes

You'll know if something's up with your brakes when you hear any high-pitched or screeching sounds. These noises often mean that your brake pads are getting old. Since your brakes are probably the most important safety feature in your car, it's important to check on them regularly.

2. Get Your Oil Changed

You should have your oil changed every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. And the more driving you do on a regular basis, the more often you should check the oil.

3. Clean Your Air Filter

Your air filter stops particles and contaminants from reaching your engine. A clogged filter can damage your system and drive up your fuel consumption. The good news is that it costs very little to have this checked and cleaned, and it is usually done during an oil change anyway.

4. Replace Your Windshield Wipers

You may underestimate or ignore the importance of your windshield wipers – that is, until it's raining and the blades are not clearing the glass very well, making it hard to see. Your visibility while driving is crucial, especially when the weather isn't so pleasant. Replace your wipers as necessary and give your windshield a detailed, regular cleaning inside and out.

5. Check Your Alignment

It's easy to test whether your alignment is off: simply see if your steering wheel isn't in center position when you're driving straight. Your alignment affects how your car handles on the road, so make sure to check it on a regular basis.

6. Get Your Tires Rotated

Check your driver's manual to find out how often you should have your tires rotated. This is important so that your tires wear evenly and your car drives smoothly. Remember, tires are expensive, so rotating them will help you avoid paying for them as often. Also, check your inflation pressure to ensure your tires are at a safe level – this will help to prevent unnecessary blowouts. Look at your treads to see how worn your tires are and assess if and when you need new ones.

7. Check Your Battery

Although your battery doesn't require much maintenance, it doesn't hurt to ensure that it's not leaking and there is no buildup on it. You can use a battery cleaning brush to remove any buildup.

8. Check Engine Coolant

Antifreeze keeps your car running smoothly in any and all weather conditions, so make sure you have the necessary levels in your car. Ideally, you should check once every six months, preferably before summer and again before winter.

Check out our Autoland blog for more tips on vehicle care!

Summer Hazards to Your Paint that You Can Avoid

Let us paint this scenario for you. You've been saving up for months or even years for that perfect car. You do your research on the type of car you want and search dealerships in NJ for the car you want at an affordable rate. However, no matter how much research you do to get the car that you want, there are a number of possible threats to your car's exterior that could threaten the integrity of your newly purchased automobile. For that reason, let's take a look at those possible threats so you know to avoid them:

Gasoline Spill Over: If you live in the Garden State, you might not be accustomed to pumping your own gas. However, gasoline spill over can be a detriment to your paint job. If you are not pumping your own gas, pay attention to make sure the attendant doesn't spill over. If you do pump your own gas, remember to not top your car off.

Tree Sap: Tree sap is one serious hazard that can create havoc for your car's paint. If you think that parking far away from possible carts and other hazards in a parking lot is a good idea, just remember to stay away from trees. Sap will drop and it will take more than a regular car wash to get it off your paint.

Bugs: Bugs are another issue during the summer months. Although they can't be completely avoided, just remember to stay on top of any cleaning here to avoid any long term damage. Bugs are unfortunately highly acidic, which could damage your paint in the long run.

Bird Droppings: Again, another problem that probably can't be avoided. The important thing to remember is if you see that this has occurred on your car, you need to clean it off as soon as possible. Leaving it on will cause havoc to your paint.

As you take your summer drives, remember that there are summer hazards that could affect your car's paint. By being proactive and avoiding these hazards when you can, you should be able to protect your car's paint job. Clean your car often and use the right cleaning supplies to ensure your car looks just like it did after it left the lot.

Saving Gas on the Road This Summer

Are you planning on taking a road trip this summer? If so, you understand the importance of having a car with great gas mileage. If you're looking for car dealers in NJ, 1800 Auto in Springfield, NJ has a number of fuel-efficient models to choose from. Just stop by the lot or check out our inventory on our website to see what's available today. However, if you need to hold on to your car for a little while longer and are trying to think of ways to keep your gas mileage up, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Keep Your Foot off the Brake: A steady foot is an easy way to make sure your gas bill doesn't get too high. That's because braking and rapid acceleration wastes gas. Try your best to keep a steady speed and brake slowly at stops.

Get the Bricks out of the Trunk: We don't mean that literally, but if you do actually have bricks in your trunk, it might be a good idea to get them out. Any added weight will make your car use more gas to achieve a certain speed. If you treat your car like a storage space, you should plan a clean-out.

Check Your Tire Pressure: It's not only safe to keep your tires pumped at an adequate level; it is also good for your gas mileage. If you have an older car, you can do it manually, but make sure the tires are cold for an accurate reading. Most new models will have an automatic monitor.

Fuel Up at Morning or Night: Here's a tip that is especially important in the sweltering summer heat. Did you know that fuel that is filled in the early morning and nighttime is denser because of the cooler temperatures? Therefore, you will get more fuel for the same price when you go to the pump before your morning commute or later in the evening.

By paying attention to fuel-efficiency, you'll be able to save money at the pump and spend it on more important things like that summer vacation. Enjoy your time on the road from 1800 Autoland!