How Are Flat Tires Replaced?

Who wants to discover a flat tire at the worst time? No one, but tires do suffer problems. Changing a tire requires following some deliberate steps. Here are a few steps necessary when replacing a tire:

Safety should be the top priority here. Getting the vehicle away from traffic and into a well-lit area helps. So does turning on flashers. Ensuring the parking brake is on, and tires wedges rest in place can be wise, too.

 

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Great Things in Small Packages: Subaru Crosstrek

Subaru Crosstrek's enormous popularity isn't hard to understand. Its tight, sporty silhouette belies a bunch of cargo space you can fill to the max without diminishing Crosstrek's sparkling agility. This crossover has our entire Charlie's Pre-Owned team abuzz. Here are two of many reasons why.

Hill Descent Control

Crosstrek's got you covered on city terrain, rural roads and off-road. Available X-Mode beefs up the transmission and engine to counter slippery conditions. Combined with Crosstrek's 8.7 inches of ground clearance, this crossover 
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Explore the Subaru Ascent Used at Charlie's Pre-Owned

Here at Charlie's Pre-Owned we are in love with the Subaru Ascent. This popular three-row SUV has a myriad of features coupled with impressive power. It could be just the vehicle that your family has been looking for, and we are proud to include this vehcile in our inventory.

The Ascent was built to last and tackle tough jobs. In addition to all the room that you'll have inside the SUV you will also benefit from a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The Subaru Ascent also has 8.7 inches of ground clearance. That means this SUV is ready…

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What to Consider if You're a Low-Mileage Driver

A low-mileage driver is anyone that drives under 600 miles per month. There's nothing wrong with having a low-mileage vehicle, but you want to make sure that you're still scheduling routine maintenance. Oil changes are a maintenance task that are typically performed once every 6 months, or 1000 miles. If you're not driving your vehicle often, you can push the appointment off for a bit.

The quality of your oil is important. If you're not getting your oil changed at the recommended interval, check the color of your oil routinely. Black oil instead of golden oil…

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The Science That Makes Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirrors Work

Most drivers have had the unpleasant experience of being blinded by a tailing driver's headlights. Even after this person has turned away, the resulting blind spot can remain for up to 1.4 seconds. Auto-dimming mirrors prevent this from happening. At Charlie's Pre-Owned, we want people to know more about what auto-dimming mirrors are and how they help.

Bright Reflections Are Darkened To Preserve Visibility

Auto-dimming mirrors have a very innovative design. Trapped between two panes of glass is a responsive, electrochromic gel.
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Signs to Watch Out for if Your Tires Need to Be Replaced

Many parts of your vehicle will require maintenance or repairs over the lifetime of your automobile. Tires are commonly replaced because of normal wear and tear. Unfortunately, many people neglect their tires. It's ideal that you give them a once-over every so often to see how they're doing. Charlie's Pre-Owned has some signs that you watch out for if you're trying to determine if a new set of tires is in your future.

-Check tire tread using the penny test. Insert a penny upside-down into the tread of your tires. 

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Intro to Your Car's Alternator

Car batteries get all of the attention, but that's probably because most people think they're responsible for powering each car's electrical systems. In fact, it's the alternator that juices your car during its daily cruises through Augusta. Here's a brief rundown on alternators from our dealership's factory-trained service team.

Your Car's Heartbeat

An alternator fuels your car's entire electrical system and recharges your car's battery as you commute. It harnesses mechanical energy from your car's moving wheels, forcing electrons through an electrical circuit to create power. 
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Credit Score Tips for You

Of course, our credit partners review your credit score when you apply for an auto loan with us at Charlie's Pre-Owned. Use our advice to improve your chances of leaving our lot with the vehicle you love.

Become actively involved in your credit health. Free apps exist that can help you raise your credit score. Download the one that appeals to you. You'll be surprised at the amount of fun some of these apps provide.

Also, wisely use any credit you currently have. 

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Get Your Car to the Mechanic If You Notice Any of These Signs

If you're vehicle is making a lot of noises, you should have it checked out by an experienced mechanic. Ideally, your vehicle should only be humming softly when the motor is turned on. Any squealing or popping sounds should be checked out immediately so that you can avoid more costly repairs. At Charlie's Pre-Owned, we want to help you avoid expensive repairs, so here are a few things that you should know about when to change your belts.

Your serpentine belt is transfers power from the crank shaft to the accessory components, but after many years of use…

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Getting Your Car Ready for Spring

Spring is the time of year when most drivers think of auto maintenance. After a long winter of old days, snowy travels and salted roads, cars are more than ready for some good spring car maintenance. We at Charlie's Pre-Owned want you to be knowledgeable about what your vehicle needs and how to best prepare it for spring and warm weather driving.

• Check windshield wiper blades
• Check and fill all fluid levels (windshield washer, transmission fluid, brake fluid, etc.)
• Remove winter tires and replace with summer or all performance tires
• Check air pressure
 

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