Tuttle-Click Automotive Group
 
 Ford | Lincoln | Mercury | Chrysler | Jeep | Dodge |
Mazda | Hyundai | Commercial Trucks
Visit our website: 
www.tuttleclick.com

IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT

The monthly eZine of Tuttle Click Automotive Group
 
  
Volume II, Issue III, July 2009 
KEEPING YOUR CAR COOL THIS SUMMER
 
 
In Southern California summer temperatures, vehicle interiors can reach 160 degrees.  No one likes the feeling of climbing into a scorching hot car and touching seatbelts and gear shifts that require oven mitts.  Here are some tips on how to keep your car cool.
 
 
  • This may seem obvious, but make an effort to park in the shade.  It may mean walking further into the grocery store or parking on the side of the building instead of out front.  The little extra effort it takes to find a shady tree to park under will save you minutes of sweating it out in a car that has been baking in direct sunlight.
  • Keep tabs on your air conditioning system in winter months.  While it may seem counterintuitive to run your air conditioning in January, it is a good idea to test it periodically when you are not using it in cold temperatures.  That way, when summer heat hits, you will not be surprised by a problem.
  • Roll down your windows and open your sunroof to let out hot air.  Even better:  open all car doors and stand outside the car for just a few minutes before you get in.  Trapped hot air needs to be released. 
  • Invest in a remote start system.  New remote key fobs can start your car, and your air conditioning, from 2,000 feet away.  That means while you are finishing your morning breakfast or pushing your groceries across the parking lot, your car can already be cooling itself down. 
  • Use low-tech solutions.  Simple things like keeping your windows slightly cracked, using a sun screen in your windshield, and draping a hand towel over your steering wheel can make a big difference in circulating a little air, refracting sunlight, and keeping things from getting too hot to handle inside your car.
  • Apply window tint.  Tinting does not need to be dark to make a difference, some have metallic substances which will help block heat.  Make sure you go to a reputable shop that knows and follows state regulations for window tinting.

If you need help with your air conditioning system, please click here to contact our Service Department or click here to make an appointment.

CASH FOR CLUNKERS 101
 
 
The Consumer Assistance Recycle and Save Act of 2009, or more commonly, "Cash for Clunkers,"  is an innovative piece of legislation that has been getting a lot of media attention recently.  However, the government is still working out the specifics, so there seems to be some widespread confusion about what it means.  Here are the basics:
 
WHO:  Anyone who owns a car, 25 years old or newer, that gets a combined MPG of 18*.  The car must have been continuously insured for the past year. 
*For fuel economy ratings, visit fueleconomy.gov.
 
WHAT:  A government voucher for up to $4,500 to be used towards a newer, more efficient vehicle.  Because the "clunker" is required to be scrapped, the voucher is in lieu of trade-in value, not in addition to it. 
  • New passenger cars will qualify under the program only if they have a fuel economy of at least 22 MPG. If the new model gets four more miles to the gallon than the old car, you qualify for the $3,500 credit. With a 10 MPG improvement or more, you can qualify for a $4,500 credit. 
  • For light trucks, SUVs and minivans, the new vehicle has to get at least 18 MPG and can offer as little as a 2 MPG improvement over the old one to qualify for $3,500. With a minimum 5 MPG improvement, you can qualify for $4,500.
WHEN:  Finalized regulations are expected by July 26.  Experts expect that the $1billion will last approximately 60 days.  Once the appropriation has run out, the government may choose to extend the program.
 
WHERE:  At any participating new car dealer in the United States, like any of the Tuttle-Click locations. 
 
WHY:  It is intended to help get gas guzzlers off U.S. roads and replace them with new, more efficient vehicles.
 
If you believe you may qualify, contact us today!  Remember, this program lasts only as long as the $1billion does!