How Will You Be Spending New Years Eve?

  New Years  is  one of the oldest of holidays celebrated all over the world. Most celebrate  with  family and friends. It is a time to reflect on the past and welcome the new year with hope.

                   Happy New Years from all of us at Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales !

Need a Few Last Minute Christmas Gifts For Your Friends

The best part of giving an automotive-related gift is that they are used throughout the year. Each time they are used, the receiver  will remember who gave it to them.

Here  are a few suggestions for auto-related holiday gifts:

Car Accessories
Satellite Radio, Car Seat Massager, Personalized Auto Floor Mats, Can Coolers/Warmer, Protective Pet Pads for Car Seats.



Car Gadgets
Auto Adapters for MP3 Players, Radar Detectors, Portable Navigation System, Bluetooth Wireless Head Sets for Cell Phones, Portable DVD Player



Safety Gifts
Rearview Vehicle Camera, Back-Up Warning System, Roadside Emergency Kit, Jumper Cables,
Talking Tire Pressure Gauge, Roadside Assistance Memberships

Don't Forget the Stocking  Stuffers 
Gas Cards, Key Chains, Air Freshners, FlashLights and Car Wash Gift Certificates


Remember .... The key is matching the right gift to the right person !       Mery Christmas from All of Us at Car-Lotta Credit

Do You Have RoadSide Assistance on Your Car Insurance?

It can be a major inconvenience when you really need to get somewhere and you’ve  find   you have a flat tire.... Or you’re out of gas..... Or your car just won’t start.

 Roadside Assistance is  like having your own personal pit crew 24/7.

Some  people pay a substantial amount of money to other companies for coverage that they  may already have or can get  with their car Insurance.

 • Here are some conditions  which should make  you conscider   roadside assistance:

• * If you drive to work

• * If you drive long distances to work

• * If you drive in inclement weather

• * If you drive an older car

• * Your vehicle  has a history of maintenance problems

• * You bought a used vehicle  and don’t know its full history

• * If you have no clue on how to fix or maintain your vehicle

• * If you enjoy peace of mind

With winter coming, we  encourage everybody to call their insurance company to a roadside assistance.

The  $5-10 a month it may cost is definitely worth the peace of mind!

Do You Need Some Cash For The Holidays?

We Buy Vehicles !

We'll give you a price to buy it from you in less than 30 minutes. If you have your drivers license and the title of the vehicle with you, you may even  leave with the check for the car on the spot.





* We buy cars, trucks, pickups, minivans, SUV's and 4X4's

* The years we will buy are from 2000 to 2009

* Mileage can be from 50,000 to 155,000 miles

* We do not buy salvage or reconstructed vehicles

* The price range is from $1000 to $6,000

What Fuel Is In Your Vehicle?

What fuel is in your vehicle? Odds are that living in NEPA you are probably already filling up with Winter Blend.


It is recommended a switch between the two fuels happens twice a year, once in the fall (winter blend) and again in the spring (summer blend). Summer-blend gasoline is typically more expensive to produce than the winter blend, and it won’t affect vehicle performance or the durability of the engine and fuel system, according to the EPA


The difference between conventional summer- and winter-blend gasoline has to do with the Reid Vapor Pressure of the fuel. RVP relates to the volatility of a gasoline. The Environmental Protection Agency says conventional summer-blend gasoline contains 1.7 percent more energy than winter-blend gas, which contributes to the summer blend’s slightly better gas mileage. Cars using summer-blend gasoline spew fewer harmful emissions and get slightly better fuel economy than those using winter-blend gas during the summer months.

How to get UN Stuck in the Snow

Unfortunately…. getting stuck in the snow is unavoidable in NEPA. The following are a few tips to help get you out:




1. Do not spin your wheels. (This will only dig you in deeper)

2. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.

3. Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.
4. Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.

5. Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.

6. Try rocking the vehicle. Shift from forward to reverse, and back again. Each time you're in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going

Do You Know What SIde Your Gas Tank Is On?

Do you know what side of your car your gas tank is on? 

Let me share a little secrete with you …… I have been driving for 30 plus years and just found out that if you look at your gas gauge, you will see a small icon of a gas pump. On some vehicles the handle of the gas pump will extend out on either the left or right side of the pump. If your tank is on the left, the handle will be on the left. If your tank is on the right, the handle will be on the right. Some vehicles actually have a little arrow under the little gas pump icon pointing in the direction of side  of the  vehicle  the filler door is on!

                             Can you believe it’s that simple?

You  would think I would have noticed this  little secret on my dash  staring me right in the face this entire  time.  I don't even want to tell you how many times  over the  years I have pulled into a gas station to pump gas only to realize  the fuel door   was on the opposite side-  I bet you've done this too!

Why Do We Celebrate Vetrans Day?

Veterans Day- also known as  Armistice Day in the Unites States  or  Rememberance Day in other parts of the world  is  Thursday, November 11th this year marking the anniversary  of the signing of the Armistice that brought an end to World War I. It is on this day that the people of the United States take  to time  remember and honor the veterans of the armed services. This day is set to aside to show the veterans just how much that they are appreciated for the sacrifices that they have made for the United States.

Be sure to THANK a VETRAN Today!

How To Prevent An Icy Windshiled

Learning to prevent an icy windshield can be a real time saver! Have you ever experienced a morning when you’ve grabbed your coffee and rushed out the door to find your car is covered with frost? You probably began to scrape your windshield with whatever you can find... your bank card, a CD….. spare change.(your scraper is never handy) .


You can prevent an icy windshield by using this simple Homemade De-Icer method:

Using a spray bottle treat your  windows each night with a mixture made up of 3 parts vinegar to 1 part water. This will prevent ice from forming. (You can actually use this spray on all of the car's windows and not just the windshield.) In the morning you will either be greeted with a frost-free car, or one that has a bit of frost which will easily wipe away.

You can spray the vinegar and water solution on in the mornings but make sure to remember the windshield is sensitive. Don't use hot water! Scrape gently and don't put excess pressure on the glass or you risk cracking your windshield.

Never curse your windshield again!

What IS Road Rage?

               Do You Have Road Rage?

There is no true definition for it. It's more of a term used to characterize the attitude exhibited when a motorist loses their temper as a reaction to a traffic incident. The incident can be something as slight as a person moving into their lane or driving slowly in the fast lane.

Road rage is more typical of aggressive drivers. These drivers tend to drive faster and change lanes more often. They want to be the first one off the line at the traffic light and want the fast lane to themselves.

 Some  Symptoms of Aggressive Driving & Road Rage Are:  


Mentally condemning or thought of violence toward other drivers.

Verbally expressing condemnation of other drivers to passengers in your vehicle.

Not obeying traffic safety rules because you don't agree with them.

Engage in aggressive and risky driving:

Following too close.
Weaving in and out of traffic.

Speeding up to beat a traffic light.

Cutting between vehicles to change lanes.

Using the horn excessively.

Flashing headlights excessively at oncoming traffic.

Braking to get others to back off your bumper.

Passing another driver, then slowing to teach them a lesson.





When another driver gets your ire up.... Think FIDO : Forget It And Drive ON !! 

Which is Better - A Snow Tire or A Winter Tire??

The winter season quickly approaching and you may be starting to wonder ......….. what's the difference between a snow tire and a winter tire? Keep in mind that tires are the single most important consideration for anyone  who drives  during the  winter.

Winter Tires are designed for clear roads with a minimal amount of snow and/or ice and  are engineered with a rubber compound that works well in colder weather.


Snow Tires  are designed for much heavier snow and or ice at the expense of dry road handling. They  don’t do as well on dry roads, but if you  drive  around in an area with signifigant  snowfall, these should be installed on your  vehicle. With  snow tires you get chunky tread, a little  less stability on  highways  and more noise, and  snow traction.


With a winter tire, you get a quieter ride, very little squirm, less noise good pavement ride and grip, long wear characteristics, and – last but not least – good ice and snow traction. Winter tires are  better on pavement than the snow tires.
 

     To go in Snow or NOT go in Snow .... this is the question!

Do I Have To Have My Vehicle Serviced At A Dealer to Keep My Warranty?

Your Vehicle Warranty  is a promise  made by a manufacturer to stand behind its product or to fix certain defects / malfunctions over a  specific period of time. The warranty pays for covered repairs or part replacements during the this  period.
  Service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranty in effect.  It's  actually  illegal for a dealer to deny your warranty coverage because you had routine maintenance/ repairs performed by someone else. Maintenance can  be done by a qualified service facility  Be sure to  keep all receipts as proof of the work being done and ask  the service provider fill out the Maintenance Record.
 


Here's how to get the most out of your vehicle's warranty:

Read your warranty.
Be aware of your warranty period.
Service your car at regular intervals.
Keep all service records and receipts.

If you think your dealer's service  depertment  denied your warranty claim unfairly, contact the manufacturer  You can also  file a complaint the  Attorney General, or  Better Business Bureau.

How to Keep Rodents Out of Your Vehicle

During the fall and winter months mice and squirrels look for places that provide shelter. They like to nest in areas such as garages and vehicle engine compartments because they are looking for  warm places to nest. They are gnawing animals by nature and  they may damage  your engine by chewing through insulated wires, hoses and other engine components . They have been known to chew upholstery and even plug up the exhaust pipes.

Vehicles parked for an extended period of time are engine can save money on expensive rewiring and other repair bills.

Some people will tell you that if you remove a food source, rodents will disappear but  this is not always the case.  Here are  a few home remedies to eliminate your rodent problem.:

  Spray small animal repellent on parts of the vehicle that don't get hot like  the front tires,  undercarriage and the bumper.


  Spread some ground hot pepper the areas where the squirrel may be gaining entry. A  dose around your  tires and along the bumper will likely to drive off squirrels and  other animals hanging around. Cayenne pepper works well but habanera  pepper seems to work better.

  Put mothballs beneath the hood, especially around the wires that squirrels seem to enjoy munching. (Squirrels are usually repelled by the odor of mothballs).


   Lay dryer sheets throughout the interior, in the trunk and under the hood. Stick a couple in the exhaust pipe ( mice hate the smell of the dryer sheets).



Try one or several methods together. Just remember to remove your rodent-proofing precautions if they are in your motor or exhaust pipe before you start your vehicle.

When Should I Get My Vehicle Ready For Winter?

Fall is  here and  winter is  peeking  just around the corner. Before you know it  we will be dealing with  sub-zero temps, pelting rain/snow  and blasting wind.

Experts advise you  should use these final fair-weather days to get your  vehicle  ready for what is lying  ahead.

 Remember ... Regular maintenance is the best preventative for winter breakdowns.  These areas may need  extra attention:


Blades –  Replace your wiper blades before the weather becomes nasty.

Battery – The  extreme heat of the summer may  reduce battery life, resulting in batteries that then fail in high-demand winter months. Look  for corrosion on cables and posts.

Brakes – Have your brakes checked and replace the pads/rotors as needed.

Belts and hoses – Look for thinning or cracking in belts and check  hoses for imperfections.

Tires –  Make sure your  tires are filled to the recommended tire pressures. Check the tread wear. Tires play a BIG role in how well your car handles in  winter driving conditions.

Oil and other fluids – Top off all fluids that have run low. Windshield washer fluid is used frequently in winter driving, so  be sure keep a gallon in your trunk to so   you will always have a clear view of the road. Check the oil, and change if necessary.

Air filters –  A dirty air filter is not necessarily  going to cause your car to break down, but if  you’re checking everything else, have it inspected .

Headlamps and tail lamps  -Check your lights to make sure you are as visible as possible to others.



         

Should I Buy an Extended Warranty For My Used Vehicle?

Buying a Used Vehicle and wondering if you should buy  a warranty?

Consider the Cost ...


There are  many service contracts to choose from  and they can be  expensive. That doesn’t  mean they are all  rip offs , but you should  consider the likelihood of needing repairs, what those repairs may cost, and then see   if it makes sense.

There are a number of  factors to consider .... What is actually  covered,  How much is the  deductible, What is the length of contract.

Prices can  range from just a few  hundred dollars to a few  thousand dollars.

You’re   placing a bet  on if  you think your repair costs over the length of the contract will be more than you paid for the contract itself. If you paid $1000 for coverage that will last you about two years, you have to ask yourself if there is a good chance that over the course of those two years you’ll need to have $1000 or more worth of work done. If it isn’t very likely, you might as well save your money. But if you think that it  is a possibility, it might make sense.


Some of the Benefits

Many  offer a free loaner car when you have to take  your vehicle in for service. That can be  helpful if you’re in a situation where you need a car or don’t have many options for sharing a ride. Some pay for the cost of a rental car .  If you’re vehicle will be  in the shop for a few days, this can be a nice benefit to have. Some contracts also provide free towing service in the event you break down.
Some people are opting for a  “vehicle fund” to work as their  own extended warranty.

If you  put  money a side   in a  savings account   and sort of earmark that for unexpected vehicle repairs, your money can actually earn a little interest on it and  it  will be  readily available  if you need it.  You may  miss out on a few  of the added benefits of buying coverage, you’re in better shape if you’re fortunate enough to have a car that  only needs minor  repair or better yet ....doesn’t need any!

It’s like buying insurance. You never know if you will  need it, and if you don’t use it,  you  may feel like you  wasted  your money. But if you do need it, you are  sure glad you have it.

What Makes Car-Lotta Credit Different?

What makes us different??




Our loan process is quick and easy and we will treat you with dignity and respect.

Our Exclusive Car-Lotta Credit Warranty!

We have a professional, experienced, highly trained staff.

We have some of the best vehicles you will find!

We match the car, the payments and the term of the loan to your individual situation .

We are in this for the long haul. We will always be here when you need us.



We are The "Car Credit Specialists." This is all we do. We have Over 13,000 customers , 25 years experience and 3 Super Store Locations to choose from.



Remember ....

At Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales we approve your loan, not some banker.

Should I be a Co- Signer or Co-Byer on an Auto Loan?

There are a  few things  to consider before you sign  for an Auto Loan.

If someone asks you to be a sign on a loan, you should  consider the borrower's character and ability to make the payments, and whether you could afford the debt if the borrower defaults.

 Remember .... If the loan goes bad, you have to pay it back. You  need to look at this as if  you were taking out the loan Yourself.



How a co-signer and co-buyer are the same:


1. Both are co-applicants and are also responsible for the loan. If the primary borrower is unable to meet the loan obligations, than the co-signer or co-borrower must make payments on the loan.



2. Both the co-signer and co-borrower are signatories on the loan. This means that in addition to the primary borrower, the co-signer and co-borrower both appear on the loan and sign the loan agreement documents.



3. If the  loan goes into default, both a co-borrower and co-signer can be subject to collection actionwhich can  include garnishment.



The difference:



Co-signer:

A co-signer is someone who signs your loan with you and is like insurance to the company you are dealing with. If for any reason, you fail to make a payment, the cosigner is responsible for taking care of it. This is why not many people will cosign for anything.




Co-buyer:


Co-buyers can split the overall cost of buying including deposit, payments, tax, and insurance. This allows you to multiply your income and afford a vehicle that you may not be able to afford alone

Why Do We Celebrate Labor Day?

Traditionally, Labor Day is celebrated by most Americans as the symbolic end of the summer. In high society, Labor Day is (or was) considered the last day of the year when it is fashionable for women to wear white.

Labor Day marks the beginning of the NFL and college football seasons. NCAA teams usually play their first games the week before Labor Day, with the NFL traditionally playing their first game the Thursday following Labor Day. Most school districts that started summer vacation in mid June will resume school near this day.



The first Labor Day in the United States was observed on September 5, 1882, in Boston, by the Central Labor Union of New York, the nation's first integrated major trade union. It became a federal holiday in 1894.Singed into law as a National Holiday by Grover Cleveland.



All Car-Lotta Credit locations will be closed Monday Sepetmber 3rd in observance of Labor Day.

We will re open Tuesday September 6th at 9:00.

How Do You Know When It's Time To Service Your Brakes?

Vehicle brakes are vital to safety when driving.
It makes sense to be sure that they are maintained properly. Brakes wear out as part of normal operation.

Your service technician has the knowledge and tools to tell you what’s needed. If you know what you are looking for, you can also check for wear by looking at the outside brake pad on the front wheel, which is visible on most cars.


Neglecting your brakes an lead to increased repair costs, or worse, no brakes at all. Paying attention to some of the signs of brake wear can keep you on top of stopping maintenance, saving you some money and keeping your car from bouncing off of the guy in front of you.



What signs indicate that they're wearing out?  How do you know when to bring your car in for service?


The most obvious indicator that your vehicle's brakes need attention is a high pitched squeal when you come to a stop. Brake pad manufacturers include a little piece of metal called an indicator on the pad itself. When the material wears down to the point where less than ¼ inch is left, the metal piece begins to touch the vehicle's rotor, doing a pretty good impression of fingernails on a chalkboard. Some disc brake pads have wear sensors that trigger a “service” light on the dash.


So how do you know when to bring your car in for service?

How Fast Do You Really Drive?

My car informs me that I've been averaging 30.3  mph over the last month.( This is a lot lower than I would have guessed.) It's low  because I don't drive on the highway much  and  because there's also a lot of time spent sitting still in traffic and at lights.


Below are the average driving speeds of several U.S Cities.

Baltimore, MD

25.8

Dallas, TX

26.1

Honolulu, HI

27.8

Las Vegas, NV

29.2

Memphis, TN

35.7

New York, NY

17.6

Phoenix, AZ

28.2

Raleigh, NC

34.3

San Diego, CA

31.0

San Francisco, CA

18.0

Virginia Beach, VA

30.5

Washington, DC

19.3

                                   How Fast Do You Drive ?

Why Should I Maintain My Vehicle?

A well maintained vehicle is likely to run well past the expected lifetime indicated by the manufacturer.

Keeping  tab on your vehicle’s maintenance and condition can not only give you peace of mind of knowing you’ve done your part to prevent breakdowns, it  can also significantly extend the lifetime of your vehicle.

It will most likely cost you more money to fix a broken part than maintain a working part ( not to mention the added stress that an unexpected breakdown adds to your busy life) .

The advantage of  regular  maintenance   it  that any small problems (and there will be problems with any car) are spotted before they become big problems.
                      
                                         This saves you time AND  money.

It's a good idea to keep a log of all repairs and services performed. Most technicians rely on this information to guide their maintenance and repair recommendations. Having this information ready is can help you receive more accurate service.     

                                                  Happy Motoring!

Are YOU ready?

You need to have a plan ! 

No one wants a tragedy to happen in their community but you may need to survive on your own after a disaster. This means having your own food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days. Basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment, and telephones may be cut off for days, or even a week or longer. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You probably will not have the opportunity to shop or search for the supplies you need.


Determine what items you have on hand and in what quantities.

After doing an inventory, start tackling your shopping lists.

Develope your personal emergency plan.

Make sure you’ll be ready whether at home, work, or on the road.

Don't forget about the family pets!

For more information visit http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/assemble_disaster_supplies_kit.shtm.

How Reliable Is Your Vehicle?

How do you determine what a reliable vehicle is  anyway? When you're considering vehicle  there are only a handful of factors that really matter - reliability is one of them. Having one  that won't let you down is important to almost everyone and two things affect your view of reliability:


                               How often it needs repairing,
                         How much it will cost you to repair it.

 A vehicle  could break down five times, but only cost you $50.00 each time to fix, or it could break down once and set you back $1,000. 00.

When it comes to finding a reliable vehicle, knowing which used cars are generally rated as the most dependable and reliable can certainly help.
 
The most reliable used vehicles  are the ones that  have the fewest reported complaints and issues, and are reported to have the fewest number of mechanical breakdowns and failures.

A Few Fun Facts About July

According to the Gregorian calendar, July is the seventh month.  Julius Ceasar gave the month 31 days in 46 B.C. The Roman Senate named it 'Julius', in honor of Caesar.


July is usually the hotest month of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and is one of the winter months in the Southern Hemisphere. During July, when there isn't much rain, the grass often loses it's greenness. Some flowers are abundant in July, because they strive on the heat. Also, insects are abundant as well .
                                                    Life is striving in July!

The Ruby is the gem for July.


The water lily is the flower for the month of July.


Did You Know ...

District of Columbia established, July 16, 1790.

Kentucky became the 15th state, June 1, 1792.

Idaho became the 43rd state, July 3, 1890



John Q. Adams, sixth President of the United States, born in Braintree (now Quincy), Mass., July 11, 1767.

Henry Ford, American automobile manufacturer, born July 30, 1863.

Calvin Coolidge, 30th President of the United States, born in Plymouth Notch, Vt., July 4, 1872

President James Garfield shot, July 2, 1881.
 
Gerald R. Ford, 38th President of the United States, born in Omaha, Nebr., July 14, 1913



First patent in United States registered, July 31, 1790
Amelia Earhart, American aviator and first woman to fly the Atlantic, born July 24, 1897

U.S. astronaut Neil A. Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon, July 20, 1969.
 
 
And soooo much more!!!!  
 

  
.

Dark Color or Light Color Vehicles... Does it Matter?

There have been  studies done and opinions proffered by  experts  about car colors. Some studies show that dark exterior cars are definitely hotter, and some show that they  aren't. Some research indicates that dark car exteriors are what makes or breaks the temperature inside the car while  others claim that it doesn't matter, since they all have steering wheels, dash boards and other heat conductors.

Nevertheless .....

  A car with a darker exterior color will get hotter on the inside somewhat faster that a light colored vehicle standing out in the  summer sun but ....after a while they both approximate the same temperature: HOT.


 A vehicle with a darker interior color may get hotter on the inside somewhat faster that a vehicle with a light color interior.

 A vehicle with a leather interior that has been sitting in the  sun will burn your thighs (even through pants!) every time, no matter what color the leather seats are.

 Cracking the windows probably does little to prevent temperatures from rising in the car, but many people do it. Doing this  and leaving your vents open, at least provides a little more ventilation.
 
 
What do you do? Get a vehicle you like no matter what the color! 
 
DO NOT EVER  leave children or pet inside your vehicle in the heat--not even with the windows cracked.  NEVER!  Not for a minute  
 
Remeber.... IT only takes minutes for the temperature inside a car to get high enough to kill your child or your pet.!



 

How Good Is Your Automotive Knowledge ?

America’s love affair with the automobile began earlier than you might think. Before there was a network of American roadways, there were cars to be driven on them. The Olds “Curved Dash” model was released in 1901, and was the first car to be manufactured in any great quantity. Sale price? $650.00. Only a short 12 years later there were over 1 million cars registered in the U.S.




 Did you know.....



The decade of the 1950’s was filled with auto innovations including 1953’s Chevrolet Corvette and the 1954 Ford Thunderbird; two sporty coupes that were destined to become instant classics. The 1957 T-Bird was the last of the famous initial 2-seater design. However, both Corvettes and Thunderbirds continue to be manufactured into the present time.



Electric, adjustable mirrors, power door locks and windows, padded dashboards, and seat belts became standard equipment on most cars during the ’50’s.



1965’s Chevrolet Impala sold more than a million units in North America setting a record that stands to this day.


The Impala was a best seller throughout the 1960’s.


The city with the greatest number of Rolls Royce automobiles per capita is Hong Kong.



Honda’s Insight is the first fuel efficient hybrid model to be made available in the U.S.


From 1992 -1996 the best selling car in all of America was the Ford Taurus.


Today, there are Approximately?  135 million cars travel the nation’s roads and interstates on any given day, and next to a home, an automobile is one of the largest investments that consumers will make in a lifetime.

Cars have risen from being a source of pride in ownership, and status symbols of wealth and prosperity, to a mainstay of suburban life. Eventually evolving into a necessity for many who depend upon their cars for their work and their livelihood.

What Happened To CarLotta?

Tropical Storm Carlotta  started as Hurrican Carlotta  and  slammed into Mexico's resort-studded Pacific coast late Friday June 16th 2012 , toppling trees and lashing hotels while authorities evacuated people from low-lying areas. The rapidly changing hurricane made landfall as a Category 1 storm near Puerto Escondido, a laid-back port popular with surfers.

Carlotta had strengthened into a powerful Category 2 hurricane early Friday and   moved inland and weakened becoming tropical storm on Saturday and a tropical depression on Sunday.



   Did you Know .....



The name Carlotta has been used for eight prior  tropical cyclones in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.


Hurricane Carlotta (1967), formed near the Mexican coast; did not make landfall

Hurricane Carlotta (1971), no land was affected

Hurricane Carlotta (1975), did not come near land

Hurricane Carlotta (1978), category 4 hurricane that did not affect land; at the time, it was the third strongest June storm, after 1973's Ava and 1976's Annette

Tropical Storm Carlotta (1982), did not make landfall

Hurricane Carlotta (1988), did not make landfall

Hurricane Carlotta (1994), buffeted Socorro Island with sustained winds of 39 mph (63 km/h)

Hurricane Carlotta (2000), killed 18 after sinking a freighter

Hurricane Carlotta (2006), brought light rainfall to Mexico



The name Carlotta has also been used for one tropical cyclone in the Southwest Pacific Ocean.



Cyclone Carlotta (1972), well off Queensland

Will you Vacation or STAYcation?

“To go or not to go?”      This seems to be the question most Americans  are asking themselves regarding a summer vacation this year. With  gas prices reaching extraordinary heights each day, many people will opt to stay home rather than go on a summer vacation.
 
More and More are choosing to Staycation ( that is  vacation that is spent at one’s home enjoying that entire home and  one’s home environs have to offer).  With all that is  impacting our economy today, it's not a great surprise that people simply do not have the money to spare for a vacation.
 
To go on vacation or not may not be the most serious question faced  by Americans in the current environment, but vacations have been a way of life for Americans for generations.!

Are You A Distracted Driver?

Distracted Driving is any activity that could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving. These actions take the driver’s attention away from the road and traffic. Driving becomes secondary in importance to another activity that is happening inside the car, truck or cycle while the  vehicle is in motion.


 These types of distractions include:

•Texting

•Using a cell phone or smartphone

•Eating and drinking

•Talking to passengers

•Grooming

•Reading, including maps

•Using a navigation system

•Watching a video

•Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player




REMEMBER ...
All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety.
  Distracted driving kills and injures thousands of people each year.

What can you  do:


•Protect lives by never texting or talking on the phone while driving.

•Be a good passenger and speak out if the driver in my car is distracted.

•Encourage my friends and family to drive phone-free.

 

How Well Do You Know June?

Think you know  a lot about the month of June? There's more to June than just the fact that it is the 6th month of the year- here are some fun facts!




June is ....


•Dairy Month



•Great Outdoors Month



•National Adopt-A-Cat Month



•National Drive Safe Month



•National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month


•National Iced Tea Month



•National Rose Month



•National Safety Month



•National Tennis Month



•Potty Training Awareness Month



•Turkey Lovers Month



•Zoo and Aquarium Month
 
 
The June Bug is named for the month that we see them occur the most.


The gemstones for June are the moonstone, pearl, and alexandrite.



Rose is the flower of June.

                                              How many of these did you know?  

















 

What Makes Car-Lotta Different From Other Car Dealers?

* We know and assume that you have credit issues when you stop by, call or email us. We greet you with a smile and a hearty handshake and appreciate your business. We understand that good people can and do have credit problems. At some dealerships, when you tell them you have credit issues, they may not be very happy about it or helpful.

* Nothing you tell us is going to surprise us, or embarrass you. For over 24 years we have helped people just like you. Anything you have to tell us, will be handled professionally and held in confidence. Selling and financing cars to people with credit issues is our only business, this is what we do.

* Most dealerships are trying to make as much money as possible on every customer they sell...at CarLotta Credit our #1 goal is to make sure the car is affordable to you and fits in your budget. We want you to be able to afford your payments and pay your loan. Its better for you, and us.

* We report your on time payments to the credit bureaus on a regular basis, this can improve your credit score over time. Most other dealers do not do this.

* Most of our payments are set as weekly. This helps you judge your budget and stay current with your payments.



This is just a few of the things that make us different. Stop in, call, or email us and let us actually show you!

Happy Memorial Day!

          Memorial Day is a United States Federal Holiday observed on the last Monday of May .



Formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates U.S. soldiers who died while in the military service. First enacted to honor Union soldiers of the American Civil War. It was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.

It has become a long weekend increasingly devoted to shopping, family gatherings, fireworks, trips to the beach, and marks the start of the summer vacation season!


Car-Lotta Credit Car Sales will be closed Monday, May 28 th in observance of Memorial Day and will re open Tuesday, May 29st at 9:00 am.

What To Do If Your Vehicle Catches Fire

Vehicle fires are one of the scariest things that can happen on the road – and they happen more often than you think. The National Fire Protection Association  states  33 car fires are reported every hour in the U.S., and 18 percent of all reported fires occur on a road or highway and involve a motor vehicle.


These statistics, while sobering, don't mean you should worry that your vehicle is going to spontaneously combust on your drive home from work.

Safe driving and regular maintenance are important to reducing your chances of being involved in one of these incidents.
1. If you smell burning plastic or rubber, pull over safely and investigate. Don't try to make it home before   you determine what the trouble is. Signal, immediately move to the closest safe place to stop, whether that's a side lane or a median.


3. Get the vehicles stopped and shut off the engine while getting yourself and all passengers out of the vehicle.
4. Get as far away from the vehicle as you can, at least 150 feet, but make sure the area you move to is safe and secure.

5. Dial 911, so the dispatcher can notify the fire department.

6. Warn onlookers and others to keep away, as well. If you have some signaling device, you can also attempt to warn oncoming traffic.

5 Facts You May Not Know About Auto Insurance

1. That new car you just bought may not be covered. Your existing auto insurance policy may cover your new car if it is a replacement for another vehicle, but only for a specified period of time. (It is important to notify your insurance company of any changes as soon as possible)


2. You may not have coverage if you lend your car to a friend or family member. Your auto insurance policy generally will cover your car when you occasionally lend it to a friend. If your friend uses your car regularly or you let someone in your household who is not a listed driver on you auto insurance policy use your car, your policy may not cover them.  If you lend your car and it is in an accident that results in a claim with your insurance company, it will be on your record and could result in higher premiums.



3. Paying your electric bill late could boost your auto insurance premiums. One of the many factors most auto insurance companies now use when setting your premiums is your insurance credit score. ( Paying  your bills on time and how much debt your have are  used to calculate your credit score)


4. You may not be covered if you hit a deer or your car is damaged in a hail storm. Collision coverage does not cover your car for damage resulting from weather events such as flooding, wind or hail; collisions with animals; vandalism; or fire or if your car is stolen. You need comprehensive insurance coverage to pay for damage or loss in these situations.


5. Your personal auto insurance policy may not cover your car when it is used for business. This can be a grey area, especially for the self-employed, so it is a good idea to talk to your insurance agent about when and how your personal car may be used in your business to determine whether you need commercial coverage.

If You Thought The Price of Gas Had You Hot Under the Collar BEFORE....

Get ready for more pain at the pump now that warm weather is here. Blame simple physics: cold contracts, heat expands.  Simly put.... you lose at the gas pump when temperatures rise. Here’s why.



The government has standards for measuring gas. According to that standard, fuel should be measured at a temperature of 60 degrees. A change in temperature changes the composition of the gas.Gas  expands or contracts percent for every 15-degrees above or below 60 degrees. In other words, the fuel contracts in the cold. So when you buy a gallon, you get more energy for your money. In the heat, just the opposite is true: even though you’re still buying a gallon of gas, you get less energy for your money than you do in cold weather.

If you buy 25 gallons of gas at 75 degrees at a price of $4 a gallon, the higher temperature can cost you an extra $1. At 90 degrees, you’ll spend an extra $2. With gas at record high prices, it’s hard to justify spending even a few cents more than necessary for a fill-up.


So ....what can you  do? You can eliminate some fuel loss from evaporative emissions by filling up at night or early in morning, when temperatures are cooler. Look for gas stations that do a high volume business. It’s likely the tanks at those stations will be refilled more often, so the gas will have less time to heat up to the environmental temperature.

Could You Use Some Free Gasoline?

Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales  would  like to give you  a $50.00 Sheetz Gas Card just for REFERRING A FRIEND or RELATIVE to Car-Lotta...

It's simple.... Just make sure your referral tells  the sales associate  that YOU  referred them .....  when  they take delivery, you will get a $50.00 Sheetz Gas Card !! Send as many as you like! 


  CLICK HERE TO START REFERRING

5 Reasons To Buy Your Next Vehicle From Car -Lotta

Here are the top 5 reasons to buy, and finance your next car from CarLotta Credit and Car Sales...



1) Our cars start at just $500 down. If you are short on cash, it's a great way to get into a car today.



2) All cars come with the exclusive CarLotta Credit warranty on the powertrain.



3) All cars are serviced in our shop before you take delivery. They are PA state inspected and ready to go.



4) Your payments for your car will be based on your income and situation. Our goal is to have every car we sell and finance be affordable to our customers.



5) Your on time payments will improve your credit rating as we report to the credit bureaus on a regular basis.



With over 100 cars in stock today, and over 25 years experience in this business...we can help you.

Need Help Paying a Bill?

Commission on Economic Opportunity of Luzerne County may be the leading agency to call for help with bills and ways to get self-sufficient over the long term.



•Emergency financial assistance - ( like an unexpected service bill on your vehicle )   If you have a short term hardship, you can apply for  financial aid to  resolve the financial emergency dependent upon hardship funding availability.



They also provide :

•Mortgage and rent assistance -
•Energy bill assistance and weatherization -
•Free food -
•Free prescriptions - •
Call the Wilkes-Barre PA Commission on Economic Opportunity of Luzerne County  570  829-1665.

How To Deal With Road Rage

 What IS Road Rage? There is no true definition for it. t's more of a term used to characterize the attitude exhibited when a motorist loses their temper as a reaction to a traffic incident. The incident can be something as slight as a person moving into their lane or driving slowly in the fast lane.

Road rage is more typical of aggressive drivers. These drivers  tend to drive faster and change lanes more often. They want to be the first one off the line at the traffic light and want the  fast lane to themselves.

When another driver gets your ire up.... Think FIDO  : Forget It And Drive ON 

How Well Do You Know April?

In April.... Small animals that hibernate are usually coming out of their burrows in April. The birds fly back northward or they settle down to have their families. The bees and butterflies begin to gather nectar from the first flowers of the season. In some parts of the world, it's planting time. In other parts, it's the harvest season. Professional baseball begins in April. Then the amateur athletes begin to go outside in the warm weather. Spring cleaning starts and people start mowing their yards again.

 April is ....


•Autism Awareness Month



•International Guitar Month



•Keep America Beautiful Month



•National Child Abuse Prevention Month



•National Frog Month




•National Garden Month



•National Humor Month



•National Parkinson’s Awareness Month



•National Volunteer Month



•National Mathematics Education Month



•National Poetry Month



•Stress Awareness Month

How To Get Ready For Warmer Weather Driving

So Long Cold Mornings ~  Hello Warm Driving Weather


Enjoy the warm weather (and hope we haven’t jinxed ourselves into another massive snowstorm) and make sure your vehicle is ready with these easy, simple spring car care preparation tips.

 The following  are some steps you can take towards prepping your car for spring are designed to repair your vehicle from months of harsh winter driving. 
• Undercarriage Road salt – Road salt can damage your vehicle’s undercarriage by eating away or corroding the metal. A thorough cleaning at a car wash should do the trick.

• Check the tires – It’s crucial to check your tires after weather changes because tire pressure changes about 1 pound per square inch for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in temperature.

• Wiper blades – Windshield wipers take a beating during the winter weather – wiping away dirt, debris and salt and gravel spray. Make sure the blades are making full contact with the windshield and have not dried out.

• Rotate tires – This should be done roughly every 5,000-10,000 miles and it can extend the life of your tires significantly by reducing wear.

• Change oil and filter – Some car makers suggest changing to a heavier oil to help your vehicle’s engine perform more efficiently during warmer weather.

• Change air filter – Your car’s air filter prevents dust and other debris from getting into the engine’s running parts, meaning less efficient use of gas and weaker engine performance.

• Flush and fill cooling system. This is cheap insurance against engine failure. Experts recommend flushing every 2 years for most vehicles.

• Check radiator and gas caps – Tight fitting caps on the radiator and gas tank are important. Radiator caps can corrode and deteriorate, so it’s a good idea to replace yours as often as you flush the cooling system.

• Check battery and plugs – Make sure battery posts and connections are clean. Spark plugs fire as many as 3 million times every 1,000 miles.

• Clean the interior – It’s easy to use your car or truck as a storage area for all kinds of things (including useless junk and garbage), especially in the cold months when you don’t feel like cleaning your car in the freezing cold. Take the time to de-clutter your car. It’s worth it.

Are You Breaking The Law ?

A ban on text messaging while driving is now in effect in Pennsylvania.


Starting  March 8th,  2012, text messaging while behind the wheel will be subject to primary enforcement, which allows law officers to stop and cite offenders for that reason alone. Fines: $50.

The texting ban enables police to pull over drivers for typing, sending or reading messages, or using or looking at handheld or pad electronic devices. Police can conclude the driver broke the law based on sight, statements made by the driver or passengers or, if necessary, by obtaining cellphone records.

Do You Know March?

March is not a popular month.... it doesn't have any of the really big holidays in it and it often has a bad reputation for driving people to drink or outright madness but did you know..... 


• In England, until the Gregorian calendar was adopted in 1752, March was considered the first month with the legal year beginning on March 25.


• March 1 is National Pig Day. It was started by Texas art teacher Ellen Stanley in 1972 to honor and give thanks to our most intelligent domesticated creature.


• The third week of March is Brain Awareness Week in support of brain disease and research.

Easy- Convenient- Secure- Pay Online

Easy - Convenient -Secure ~ Pay Online


With the Price of Gas almost $ 5.00 why leave your house to make your car payment ?

Pay online around the clock, seven days a week from anywhere!

You can:       Make a one-time payment or set up automatic payments-

                     Get an email confirmation for each payment-

                     Print your receipt -

                     View your account history-

                      Get a payoff quote-

                     Get your PassTime Code



Not comfortable paying online or no access to the Internet? Ask about our Auto Debit Program. Call Customer Service at 570.714.1971





Effective 3/01/12 the convenience fee charged to each payment using our online/auto debit processing system will be $ 4.00

5 Myths About Car Insurance

You may think you know everything you need to know about insuring your car. You might be wrong.



   My friend borrowed my car, so he's responsible for damage.
If you give someone permission to drive your car and that person crashes, it will be your insurance -- not your friend's policy -- that covers the damage.

   A more expensive car costs more to insure.
Car insurance companies look at the "loss history" of the type of car you drive -- meaning how many claims they've paid on that model -- along with how much it might cost to repair or replace your car, not its sale price, when determining how much to charge you for collision and comprehensive coverage.

   I got a ticket, so my car insurance rates will skyrocket.
A ticket doesn't automatically mean an increase in rates,If the ticket was minor and you have an otherwise clean record, your premium may not increase.

   No-fault insurance means it's not my fault.
No-fault car insurance varies by state, but it usually requires your insurance company to pay medical expenses and lost wages for injuries due to a car accident, regardless of who is at fault.

   The color of my car affects my insurance rate.
Auto insurance companies set rates based on the safety features of a vehicle and how much it costs to repair or replace the vehicle, along with other factors about the driver. The color of the car doesn't factor into the premium.

Why Don't I See Many Pickups In Your Inventory?

I Don't See Many Pickups Or Work Vans On CarLotta Credit Lots, Why?


We would love to have more of them on our lots. It is very difficult to find these types of vehicles, in your price range, that pass our service center safety check process.

Most pickups and work vans are used hard by their owners for work and/or play time. When we do find them, they have been pretty well used up. The price range we sell vehicles in, needs to be low enough for our customers to afford. In this price range, the trucks and work vans cannot pass our in house service process. If it will not, or can not, pass our service inspection process, it does not go on our lot, or in your driveway.



What we do encourage our customers to do, is this. First, get a vehicle from CarLotta Credit that is serviced, has a warranty and your on time payments are improving your credit rating...and then, you can get that pick up or work van you may need.

What Should You Keep In Your Vehicle?

5 Things That Should Always Be In Your Vehicle


No matter what the weather,there are a few  things you should always have in your car. ( No needs to list a cell phone... just about everyone has one nowadays) .



1) First Aid Kit. You never know what can happen. If you have kids, this is even more important. You might want to add a few extra bandages to the kit. They are small and are not affected by the temperature changes in your car.



2) Flashlight. The best one is the type that you hold in your mouth, or the kind that strap on your head. This will free up your hands for whatever might need to be done.



3) Jumper Cables. You left your lights on and the car won't start. The battery is old and failed. This handy item is often used and easy to store.



4) Spare Tire. Whether it is a full sized tire or a space saver, check it to be sure it is the right size for your car and is filled to recommended air pressure. In addition, be sure you have the jack and tire wrench to remove the flat tire and put on the spare tire.



5) Blanket. In case of an accident, or illness, a very comforting item.



All these items are reasonably priced and make your life much easier in an emergency.

Are You Driving Across Town To Save A Nickel On A Gallon Of Gas?

Gas prices are at  record highs.  Many  people are driving long distances to save a couple of pennies on a gallon of gas – They’re probably burning up the amount of money they save by using extra gas to go to an out of the way station.

If you are  doing everything you can to reduce the amount of money you  spend at the pump try  using a site  like Gasbuddy.com to find the cheapest gas stations in your  area.

How To Turn Super Bowl Sunday Into More Than Football

Are you ready to get involved in something "Souper"? Do you dare to tackle hunger in your local community? Transform this year’s Super Bowl festivities into a time that’s about more than just football. Make  it about helping  the hungry families in your  area.



Have a flag football tournament!  Get every team member to bring a can of soup, other nonperishable food or  even a whole grocery bag to participate which will be donated to a hunger relief organization!



Find a Church or School in your area which may be sponsoring a "Souper Bowl" Canned Food Drive in your area and DONATE!  
Donate to a College or Sunday School that may be sponsoring a "Souper Bowl" Canned Food Drive .

Don’t sit on the SIDELINES –  Please don’t PASS  on an opportunity to  help   TACKLE  hunger and  turn  Super Bowl  XLVI Sunday   into a day of caring!

How to Eat Healthy in th New Year

January is here, and  that means  New Year’s Resolution Time!

New Year's resolutions are always made with the best of intentions, When we  ushered in 2012, was one your  resolutions  to eat healthier? Did you  know that by mid-February nearly 20 percent of people give up and within six months fewer than half will still be sticking to their new goals.

To lend you a helping hand in the “eating healthier”  here a few food combos that will blast your body with disease-fighting nutrients.

Broccoli + Tomatoes = an antioxidant powerhouse

Salad + Nuts = a complete meal

Turmeric + Black Pepper = a synergic reaction

Garlic + Fish
 = the key to your heart

We hope this info  will help  you  succeed in being healthier, slimmer and just plain happier this New Year.

FOUR SMART Ways To USe Your Tax Return

With most people already filing their returns ... remember  that your tax refund can be useful in more ways than you think at CarLotta Credit...


1) Use the money, or part of it, as a down payment on a car from us.

2) Use the money too pay off your account and own your car free and clear.

3) Use the money to pay ahead for those rainy days.

4) Trade in your car with us and upgrade to a newer car, with a longer warranty!

              Tax Time IS Car Time at Car-Lotta

How To Make Your Vehicle Ready for Foul Weather

Information shows.....  bad weather is a factor in nearly 30 percent of total crashes each year. Rather than get on the road and simply worry about what might happen, you can prepare yourself. There are several things that you can do to make your car safer for driving in foul weather.

1: Stock an Emergency Car Kit


2: Buy Salt, Sand or Kitty Litter


3: Invest in Snow Chains


4: Check Your Tires


5: Do Basic Maintenance


It all starts with making sure that your car is in peak condition.

5 Top New Years Resolutions

New Year's Eve has always been a time for looking back to the past, and more importantly, forward to the coming year. It's a time to reflect on the changes we want ( or need )   to make.



1. Spend More Time with Family & Friends


2. Fit in Fitness


3. Tame the Bulge
 

4. Quit Smoking


5. Enjoy Life More


Did your New Year resolutions make the  list?