Blog Page at Taylor's Choice Auto Plaza in Billings MT

Buying Your First Car

7 Steps to Buying Your First Car

Figure out what you can afford Shop around for the best deal Test drive different cars Get a car history report and mechanical inspection Finalize the purchase and register the car Insure your car Enjoy your new ride!

Stick To Your Budget

First time car buyers often make the mistake of rushing into a purchase without doing their research first. This can lead to overpaying for a car that doesn’t fit their needs or budget.

By setting a budget first, you can avoid this common pitfall. Figure out how much you can comfortably afford to spend on a car payment each month. Then, research the Fair Market Range prices for the type of car you’re interested in. This will give you a good starting point

Start Your Research

With an established budget in hand, it’s time to start shopping around for the best deal. There are so many sites online to do research where you can check out safety ratings, available options, interior features and more.

Test Drive Several Cars

After you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to take them for a spin. This will help you get a feel for how the car drives and handles. It’s also a good time to see if there are any additional features that you may want or need.

Get A Car History Report And Mechanical Inspection

Once you’ve found the perfect car, it’s time to do a little digging into its history. A car history report will tell you if the car has been in any accidents or had any major repair work done.

Finalize The Purchase and Register The Car

After you’ve negotiated the price of the car, it’s time to finalize the purchase. This usually involves signing a sales contract and putting down a deposit. The great news is that the dealership will typically handle all the paperwork involved in registering the car.

Insure Your Car

Now that you’re the proud owner of a new car, it’s time to get it insured. The type and amount of coverage you need will vary depending on your state’s laws and your personal driving habits.

Enjoy your new ride!

Buying your first car is a big decision, but we’re here to help make it as easy as possible. We want you to be happy with your purchase and our team will be with you every step of the way.

Contact us today to get started.

What's That Noise - Your Safety Depends On It

Your Brakes Are Telling You Something!

Brakes are an essential part of every car, helping you to slow down and stop when needed. Generally, if your brakes are making a high-pitched squealing noise when you first step on them, it's an indication that the brake pads need to be replaced.

What causes that noise when you brake?

This can be due to a number of different factors - worn or dirty brake pads, issues with the rotors or calipers, or even something as simple as dirt or debris caught in the brakes.

If you're noticing a strange noise coming from your brakes, it's always best to have them checked out by a professional mechanic to ensure there isn't a bigger issue at play.

What are the different types of brakes, and how do they work?

There are many different types of brakes, each designed to perform a specific function and work in a particular way. Some common brake types include disc brakes, drum brakes, and vacuum brakes.

Disc brakes use a system of pads that press against a spinning metal disc to slow or stop the vehicle. Drum brakes consist of two brake shoes that press against the inside of a stationary metal drum. Vacuum brakes use suction to slow or stop a vehicle, drawing air from the atmosphere into chambers

How can you tell if your brakes need to be serviced or replaced?

If your car is making a noise when you brake, there's a good chance that something is wrong with your brakes. There are several things you can do to check your brakes and see if they need to be serviced or replaced.

Another way to tell if your brakes are in need of service is to look at your brake fluid levels. If the fluid is low or dark, it could be a sign that your brakes need to be flushed and refilled.

What does turning the Rotors mean?

If you've ever had your car's brakes serviced, you may have heard the term "turning the rotors." But what does that actually mean?

Rotors are the metal discs that your brake pads press against to slow or stop your car. When they become worn or dirty, they can cause a number of problems with braking performance. Turning the rotors means machining them down so that they are smooth and clean again, allowing for better braking. If they get worn down below a certain point, they will need to be replaced entirely by a mechanic.

 

As a driver, it's important to be aware of any issues with your car's brakes, as this can have serious implications for your safety on the road. Some common symptoms of worn or faulty brakes include a high-pitched squealing noise when braking, low or dark brake fluid levels, vibrations or shuddering when applying the brakes, and poor response time. If you notice any of these issues, be sure to have your brakes checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Old Car Technology That Is Now Considered Standard

Car Technology Advancements That Make Life Easier For Drivers

Are you old enough to remember when air conditioning and powered windows were optional car features? How about when you had to manually unlock your doors? If you are, then you've seen firsthand how far car technology has come in just a few decades.

Nowadays, we can't imagine owning a vehicle without them. In fact, new cars are loaded with all sorts of tech gadgets and creature comforts that make the driving experience more enjoyable. Here are just a few of the car tech advancements that have made life easier for drivers.

Automatic Climate Control

Curbside Classic

"Cadillac released Comfort Control, the world’s first fully automatic climate control system in 1964. This system is an amazing accomplishment and a reminder of how GM and Cadillac really once were the standard of the world"

If you wanted that type of luxury you had to pay a pretty penny for it. Nowadays, you can find automatic climate control in even the most basic of cars. This feature keeps the temperature at a preset level, so you don't have to adjust it every time the weather changes.

Cruise Control

Another oldie but goodie is Cruise Control. Great for long road trips when you don't want to wear your foot out by constantly pressing the gas pedal. It also helps you save on gas. Just set your desired speed and the car will maintain a consistent speed, as long as you keep your foot off the brake.

Wikipedia

"Modern cruise control (also known as a speedostat or tempomat) was invented in 1948 by the blind inventor and mechanical engineer Ralph Teetor.[4][5] He came up with the idea due to being frustrated by his driver's habit of speeding up and slowing down as he talked."

Heated and Cooled Seats

Another comfort feature that has become standard in many new cars are heated and cooled seats. This is a welcome addition for those who live in climates with extreme temperatures. Heated seats warm you up on cold days, while cooled seats keep you cool on hot days.

Backup Cameras

Did you know that backup cameras originated in 1956? Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Backup cameras are a lifesaver, literally. They help you avoid accidents by giving you a clear view of what's behind you when you're in reverse.

Wikipedia

"1956 Buick Centurion concept car, presented in January 1956 at the General Motors Motorama. The vehicle had a rear-mounted television camera that sent images to a TV screen in the dashboard in place of the rear-view mirror."

If you've ever tried to parallel park in a tight spot without one then you know what a pain it can be. a backup camera can be a lifesaver.

Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 - The Day Backup Cameras Became Standard

Car And Driver

"If you’re shopping for a new vehicle and it doesn’t have a backup camera or the feature costs extra, then it was built before Tuesday, May 1st, 2018. That’s when the safety device became standard on all vehicles made for the American market."

Although backup cameras have been around for years they started to become more popular in the early 2000s.

Keyless Entry and Start

Just like other car technology , keyless entry and start has been around for a while but it's only recently that it has become standard in new cars. This feature allows you to unlock and start your car without ever having to take your keys out of your pocket.

What Car Technology Is Next To Become A Standard Option?

Here are some other options that are starting to move their way from the luxury category into the mainstream. The average car buyer may not be able to afford all of these features right now, but eventually, they may become standard.

1. Automatic braking

2. Lane departure warning

3. Blind spot monitoring

4. Park assist systems

5. Adaptive cruise control

6. Heads-up displays

One of the most popular car technology trends is the inclusion of hands-free capabilities, such as Bluetooth and voice-activated controls. This allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still being able to control.

Do you have a car with outdated technology?

It might be time to trade it in. You deserve the latest technology in your car – and we can help make that happen. We have a huge selection of cars to choose from, and we’ll make sure the process is easy for you.

Front Wheel Drive VS. AWD What is the Difference

To Wax Or Not To Wax?

It's no secret that keeping your car looking good can help to maintain its value. But what many people don't know is that there are a lot of things you can do to keep your car looking great - and some of them are easy and inexpensive! One example is car waxing.

1. The benefits of car waxing

Waxing your car is one of the best ways to protect its finish and keep it looking new. It creates a barrier between your car’s paint and the elements, which can cause fading, scratching, and other damage. Waxing also makes it easier to clean your car, since the wax forms a protective layer that dirt and dust can

2. The costs of car waxing

The costs of car waxing vary depending on the type of wax and the amount you need. However, it is generally a very affordable way to protect your car’s finish.

3. How to wax your car properly

If you're looking to get the most out of your car wax, follow these steps:

  • Make sure your car is clean. The wax will adhere better to a clean surface, and it will be easier to remove any residual wax when you're finished.

  • Apply the wax in a thin layer. Too much wax can actually end up doing more harm than good, since it can obscure your car's paint job and make it difficult to polish later on.

  • Work in small sections. It's best to apply the wax using a circular motion, and don't forget the edges!

  • Buff off the wax with a soft cloth. Be sure to remove

4. What are the types of waxes available?

There are a few different types of car waxes on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks:

  • Spray-On Waxes: These waxes are easy to apply and usually don’t require any buffing. However, they don’t offer as much protection as other types of waxes and can be prone to fading.

  • Paste Waxes: More durable than spray-on waxes, and they usually provide better protection against scratches and fading. However, they can be difficult to apply and require a lot of elbow grease.

  • Liquid Waxes: Liquid waxes are the most popular type of car wax. They’re easy to apply, and most come with a buffing cloth.

  • Carnauba Wax: Carnauba wax is the most durable type of car wax and offers the best protection against scratches and fading. It’s also the most expensive type of wax.

  • Ceramic Wax: A newer type of car wax that’s said to offer even better protection than Carnauba wax. However, it’s also more expensive.

4. How to care for your car's finish without using any products at all

  • If you're not interested in using car wax, there are a few other things you can do to protect your car's finish and keep it looking new:

  • Park in the shade. The sun can cause your car's paint to fade over time.

  • Wash your car regularly. Dirt and dust can scratch your car's paintjob

If you're still unsure about whether or not car waxing is worth the investment, it might be helpful to consult a professional. They can help determine if waxing your car will be an effective way to keep its value and maintain its shine over time.

 

 

Is An SUV Right For You

SUVs are one of the most versatile vehicles on the market. They offer great family legroom and more storage for gear than a regular car making them ideal for family vacations.

What Are The Different Types Of SUVs

If you're in the market for an SUV, first, consider what size will best suit your needs. There are small SUVs (also called crossovers), midsize SUVs, and large SUVs.

 

  • Smaller SUVs offer better fuel economy and easier maneuverability, while large SUVs can accommodate more people and gear.

  • Crossovers are based on a car chassis, so they have unibody construction and usually offer better fuel economy than truck-based SUVs. They also tend to be smaller and more maneuverable than truck-based SUVs.

  • Midsize SUVs offer a happy medium between crossovers and large SUVs. They're big enough to comfortably seat up to eight people, but not so large that they're difficult to park or maneuver.

  • Large SUVs are the largest and most expensive SUVs on the market. They offer the most passenger and cargo space, but can be difficult to park and maneuver. They also tend to have poorer fuel

Next, decide what kind of features you're looking for in a SUV. Do you need four-wheel drive for off-roading or bad weather? Would you like a third row of seating to fit more passengers? Do you need a lot of cargo space for hauling gear?

Ready to start shopping for an SUV? Check out our inventory of new and used SUVs. We've got a wide selection of makes and models to choose from. If you're unsure of what SUV is right for you, our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help. Stop by today and take a test drive!

Did It Slip Your Mind

The Importance of Maintaining Your Car

Regular oil and filter changes are a crucial part of protecting your vehicle from many issues down the road. Not only do these services protect the components within your engine, but they can also be cost-effective in avoiding expensive repair bills due to negligence.

Benefits of Regular Oil & Filter Changes

Oil plays a crucial role in keeping all components of the engine in working order, yet sometimes dirt and debris can get mixed in, creating sludge that can build up and clog the system over time. This can lead to decreased performance, misfires, and even more serious issues down the road if left unchecked.

By regularly replacing oil and filters you help keep your engine from becoming bogged down by dirt or other particles, minimizing chances of major malfunctions later on in its life span. Properly maintaining oil levels helps ensure tensions between components remain at bay since they all have a constant source of lubrication needed to function properly without worrying about excessive friction leading to seizures or other potentially catastrophic events.

What You Should Do

The optimal mileage for an oil change is typically between 3,000 and 5,000 miles however this may vary depending on the type of car and oil being used as well as environmental conditions like climate or terrain being driven on regularly with the vehicle. Checking manufacturer recommendations found in your owner’s manual is important for further clarity regarding when it is best to change out a car’s engine oils and air filters.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the car maintenance you have to do? Are you worried about the cost of taking care of your car? Don't worry! You’re at the right place. We can find the right car with the right price Contact us now for any questions you may have

Buying Used Pickup Trucks What To Look For

Buying Used Pickup Trucks: What Should You Look For?

Buying a used pickup truck is a lot harder than buying a used car. Used pickup trucks have often lived a harder workhorse-style life, which means there’s more to consider when you’re buying a truck than when you’re buying a normal family sedan or minivan. So just what should you look for? We have some answers that can help you when you’re checking out a used truck.

Towing and Hauling

One thing you’ll have to consider when buying a used truck is just how much towing and hauling the previous owner has done. Obviously, this isn’t something you’ll need to think about if you’re buying a hatchback or a convertible, but trucks are different. If a truck has spent 50,000 miles hooked up to a trailer, it may have caused more than normal wear on the truck’s mechanical components.

Of course, one way to find out just how much towing and hauling a truck has done is to simply ask the owner. But since you can’t always count on the truth from someone selling a used car — and since you can’t always count on a dealer to know the whole story — we recommend taking the truck for a mechanical inspection before you buy it. We especially recommend this if you see evidence of a lot of towing, such as a well-worn tow hitch, a severely bent rear license plate or a cable for wiring a trailer’s brake lights.

Off-Road Use

Another thing you’ll need to consider when buying a truck is exactly how it’s been used. Many used pickup trucks lead pampered in-town lives, but some are used in fields, on farms or on ranches — exactly as they were intended to be. The problem with this sort of use, however, is that it can cause a lot of wear to a truck’s suspension, chassis and other components. To check for off-road use, get under the truck and take a look around. If you see a lot of scratches, scrapes and bent parts on the truck’s underside, it may have had a rough life off-road. While this isn’t necessarily a reason to avoid a truck, it’s certainly a red flag that may warrant a mechanical inspection by a professional.

Commercial Use?

Many trucks are bought by businesses and used as workhorses in a wide variety of applications, including shuttling around the foreman and hauling serious debris and heavy goods. Because so many trucks are used by businesses, we wouldn’t tell you to avoid a truck that’s had commercial use, but we do suggest paying a mechanic to check it over before you buy it. Businesses aren’t always as careful with maintenance as private owners, and you’ll want to be sure that no important services were skipped. Buying a used pickup truck is hard, since used trucks have often had a rough life. But if you follow our suggestions and thoroughly check out any truck before you buy it, you’ll probably end up with a used pickup that serves you well for years to come.

This article by Doug Demuro was originally published on AutoTrader.com

A Beginner’s Guide to RV Family Vacations

Ah, life on the open road! What’s not to love? There’s the freedom, the adventure… the kids fighting in the back and demanding to know if you’re “there yet.” OK, maybe a road trip isn’t exactly a flawless family vacation. Still, we’re intrigued about the idea of renting an RV and taking the kids to everything from historic national monuments to the world’s coolest roadside attractions, playing games and listening to tunes along the way. Renting an RV is a fantastic way to tour the country — without having to unpack seven suitcases at each hotel.

RV Family Vacation

Renting an RV and planning a successful vacation can be tricky, however. What’s the best way to get started? Is that thing hard to drive, and how do you know if an RV vacation is right for your family? We turned to RV experts for practical first-time tips for families.

Q: Why should we take an RV family vacation?

A: “An RV rental vacation is a good choice for families,” says Jaimie Hall Bruzenak of RV Lifestyle Experts. “It is usually less costly. You save money by preparing meals in the RV and spending less per night to camp at an RV park or campground than you would at a hotel. Also, children can be easily entertained while traveling. It’s also more convenient. You can stop easily for bathroom breaks without getting out of the RV. The children’s toys, clothes, washroom and snacks are right where you are exploring and playing, so there’s no need to return to a hotel. There are lots of fun things to do right at a campsite while parents relax. If you visit a national park, you can camp there and save driving time, plus they have activities and programs geared to children. Other families will probably be camped where you are, too, making it even more fun for the kids.”

Q: What’s the first step to renting an RV?

A: “You can narrow down the pool of options by asking yourself some basic questions,” says Rob Tischler, owner of Allstar Coaches. “How much of your vacation budget do you want to dedicate to an RV and the RV resort or campground? Do you want to tow your personal vehicle behind the RV? What amenities or on-board entertainment systems are important? These answers can help you eliminate RVs that don’t have what you need and select which services are best suited for your getaway.”

Q: How much do RV rentals generally cost?

See Our Rentals Page for more info

You can reduce fuel costs by not covering as many miles and by staying in one or two places where the kids will have plenty to do. If you can travel during the school year, you’ll find that some RV rental companies offer discounts on the price or the mileage.

Q: Do I need a special license or any training to rent an RV? Is the RV difficult to operate?

A: “You don’t need a special license,” Bruzenak advises. “Most people rent a Class C, which is on a truck chassis so it’s like driving a truck. You do need to be aware of your height and length to avoid overhead obstacles and allow enough room to turn. Dips into parking lots and gas stations can cause you to drag if you have a long overhang in the back. You want to choose an entrance that isn’t too steep and approach at an angle, if possible. Also, be sure you can see how you will get back out of a gas station or parking lot before entering. When going to an RV park, double-check the direction with them and don’t rely totally on your GPS.”

Q: RVs look like they have limited space. Will my family feel cramped spending a week in one?

A: “RVers, at least in nice weather, live and play outdoors. You’ll probably want to eat outside, maybe play games outside on the picnic table or take advantage of the recreation facilities where you are staying or visiting,” says Bruzenak. The RV is primarily for moving from place to place, sleeping and using the bathroom facilities if no restrooms are available. Unless you run into terrible weather for several days, spending a week in an RV should not be a problem. Parents should be prepared with decks of cards, board games, DVDs and books for children to read in the event there is extended bad weather. Plus, have some alternative activities in mind, if possible. Each person should have a place for their things that is separate from other family members — a drawer, a section of the closet or a shelf.”

Q: What are the best kinds of destinations for RV family vacations?

A: “National parks and state parks are wonderful places to visit on an RV family vacation,” says Bruzenak. “They usually have campgrounds and plenty to do. An RV vacation is a chance to see natural wonders and historic places. The West is an excellent region for an RV vacation. You’ll be driving back roads, so it’s easy to pull over for snack or lunch time, even if there are no restaurants in sight. In some areas in the East, conditions will be more crowded, and it won’t be as enjoyable driving — especially in beach areas. Additionally, some people enjoy going to an RV park or resort that caters to children and has a swimming pool and activities for kids.”

Article Originally published on familyvacationcritic.com by Caroline Costello
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