How Well Do You Maintain Your AUto?

Auto technicians say the key to keeping vehicles running well-today and down the road-is routine maintenance. Yet many drivers tend to stall when it comes to keeping up with some everyday auto-basics.

      A survey by the Car Care Council found:



       25% of cars had low or dirty engine oil.

• 13% had low or contaminated brake fluid.
• 18% had dirty air filters.
• 17% had inadequate cooling protection or low coolant levels.
• 16% needed new windshield wiper and 27% had low or contaminated washer fluid.
• 18 needed new belts
• Overall, 89% of vehicles were in need of at least one service or repair.

 

Remember..... A regular service schedule can help keep your car running it’s best!

 

Car-Lotta wants to ask how well YOU maintain YOUR vehicle!

So You LOVE Your Automobile?

Drivers have a unique relationship with their automobiles. They name them, they talk to them, they protect them from the elements and damage. 



 What do Americans love about their automobiles?  The color and style top the list  with power and performance following closely behind. For others, it’s a matter of independence and pride,  some cited the independence their vehicle gives them as their key crush, while nearly others said their pride in paying it off helped inspire their love.






How do drivers’ automobiles make them feel? Just like a great outfit, a can project confidence. Some said their automobiles  make them feel confident, an outward reflection of their achievements. Many said their autos inspire their internal rock star. They also make drivers feel cool,  and  even like a race car driver.




Americans autos are a reflection of their personal style. Drivers love to customize them, from simple decorative touches to unique modifications. Many want their music on the road to match their personality, so upgrade their vehicle technology with a state-of-the-art sound and on-board technology system. Many rank unique tires and rims as their top customization, opting for tricked out tread. Tied are colored headlights and undercar light kits and a customized interior.



 

 Drivers also want their car’s paint job to show their style opting for special paint and trim jobs, wraps and graphics.












Car-Lotta wants to know... What do YOU love about your automobile?

What Would You Do If Your Auto Was Broken Into?

Okay.... You walk out the door, ready to start your day. Then your heart sinks as you notice broken glass surrounding your automobile.

You are not alone. An auto break-in is a scene that too many Americans encounter each year. And after those initial feelings of shock and disappointment subside, you may be left wondering what to do next.

Here are some steps you should take if your vehicle has been broken into:
 

• Check your surroundings. Before you do anything else, look around to make sure you’re safe. Most of the time vehicle burglars are only after your valuables and quickly leave the scene. But if anything makes you feel uncomfortable, leave your vehicle and find a safe place to call for help.
   
• Record what you lost. If your auto was broken into, chances are the thief found something of value. Check for missing purses, wallets, smartphones and other electronics. Then, make a list of anything that was taken. It’s also a good idea to take photos of your vehicle damage for reference.
   
• File a police report. To make a report, call the police office’s non-emergency number – not 911. While not all break-ins can be investigated, the report will help officers track local crime trends and can provide documentation for your insurer if you file a claim.
   
• Protect yourself from identity theft. If you discover any credit or debit cards are missing, immediately notify your bank to cancel the old cards and order replacements. They’ll also help monitor your accounts for suspicious activity. 
  
• File an insurance claim. Should you file a claim or not?  Damage to your car from a break-in is typically covered under your auto policy’s comprehensive coverage, but if any of your belongings were taken, they might be covered under your homeowners or renter's policy.

 One more thing: While break-ins are never completely preventable, you can take some steps to help lower your risk. Always lock your car doors, roll up your windows and keep valuables out of sight.

 

How Will You Celebrate Labor Day?

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 September 3d  in observance of Labor Day.



We will re open Tuesday September 4th  at 9:00 am.