What You Need to Know Before Visiting the Dealership

Buying your first car is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. The good news? With a little preparation, the process can be simple, smooth, and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you feel confident before walking into the dealership.

1. Set Your Budget

The first step is deciding what you’re comfortable spending. Think about a monthly payment that fits your lifestyle , something you can manage without stretching your finances too far.

Remember, the cost of a car isn’t just the sticker price. You’ll also need to account for taxes, title, and registration fees, and you may want to plan for optional protections like extended warranties or service coverage.

If you have a vehicle to trade in, that can help lower your monthly cost or reduce the amount you need to finance. Even a small down payment can make a big difference.

Loan terms vary, too:

• Shorter terms = higher monthly payments, less total interest.

• Longer terms = smaller payments, more interest over time.

To get a better idea of what works for you, try our loan calculator. And when you’re ready, you can also apply for financing online.

2. Research Your Options

Since you’re shopping for a used car, narrowing down the options is key. Used vehicles come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges, and finding the right fit starts with thinking about your lifestyle needs:

• Do you commute long distances? Look for fuel efficiency and comfort.

• Have a family? Space and safety ratings may be top priorities.

• Need something for work or outdoor activities? Durability, towing capacity, or all-wheel drive could be important.

• Running errands around town? A smaller, easy-to-park car might be the best fit.

You can start your search right now by browsing our used car inventory. Once you have a shortlist, the test drive is where everything comes together. Sitting behind the wheel, checking visibility, and trying out the controls will tell you far more than any spec sheet.

3. Understand Financing Basics

Financing a used car doesn’t need to be complicated. A little preparation goes a long way:

• Get preapproved if you can. Knowing what you qualify for helps you shop with confidence. Start here: apply for financing.

• Understand loan terms. Shorter terms come with higher payments but less interest overall; longer terms mean smaller payments but more interest across the life of the loan.

• Know your credit score. This can affect both approval and interest rates. Even if your score isn’t perfect, dealerships work with a wide range of customers to find workable solutions.

• Make a down payment. The more you put down upfront, the less you’ll need to finance which helps reduce your monthly payment.

Not sure how the numbers will shake out? Use our loan calculator to explore different scenarios. And remember, our finance team is here to walk you through the details step by step.

4. What to Bring to the Dealership

Coming prepared makes your first visit smooth and stress-free. Here are the basics:

• Driver’s License – required for test drives and paperwork.

• Proof of Insurance – needed before you can finalize a purchase.

• Payment Method – whether that’s a down payment or full purchase funds.

• Trade-In Items (if applicable) – such as your title, keys, and any essential documents.

Having these ready will save you time and keep the process moving quickly.

We're Here To Help

Buying your first used car doesn’t have to be intimidating. By setting a budget, researching your options, understanding financing, and bringing the right documents, you’ll be well-prepared to find the vehicle that fits your life.

Start browsing our used car inventory, test out numbers with our loan calculator, and when you’re ready, apply for financing online. We’ll be here to help you every step of the way.

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Weird Car Laws & Car Buying: Don’t Get Fooled

Strange But True: Quirky Driving Laws

Every state has its fair share of driving rules, but some are just plain head-scratchers. Believe it or not, these quirky laws are real and still on the books today:

• Connecticut – It’s illegal to hunt from your car (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 26-74).

• Maine (South Berwick) – You can’t park directly in front of Dunkin’ Donuts (South Berwick Traffic Ordinance, Parking Schedule, Main St.).

• New Jersey – You’re supposed to honk your horn before passing another vehicle outside of business districts (N.J.S.A. 39:4-85).

• Oregon – You can’t leave your car door open longer than necessary (ORS § 811.490).

• South Carolina – Horse-drawn buggies must have lights and reflectors at night (S.C. Code § 56-5-4650).

• Delaware (Rehoboth Beach) – It’s illegal to disrobe or change clothes inside a car on a public street (Rehoboth Beach City Code § 198-14).

• Kansas (Wichita) – No squealing your tires or “exhibition of speed” (Wichita Code § 11.04.100).

• Georgia (City of Dublin) – Motor vehicles are prohibited inside parks and playgrounds (Dublin Code § 58-1).

• Alaska (Anchorage) – You can’t transport animals tied to the outside of a vehicle (Anchorage Municipal Code § 9.36.150).

These may sound silly, but they’re legitimate laws meant to keep order (or at least they once were).

Quick note: This isn’t legal advice — we’re just here for the laughs (and to sell you safe, reliable cars).

If It Sounds Too Good to Be True...

These oddball laws teach us something important: you can’t always believe what you hear. Some so-called “laws” you’ll see online are just myths.

Take these for example:

• Virginia Barefoot Driving – Totally legal! Despite the myth, there’s no ban on driving without shoes.

• Alabama Blindfold Driving – Sounds crazy, but no such statute exists.

They’re funny stories, but they don’t hold up when you look at the real code.

And it’s the same when you’re shopping for cars online. That Craigslist special with low mileage and a rock-bottom price? Or that Facebook Marketplace ad that looks just a little too good? Sometimes those “deals” don’t hold up either.

The Risks of 3rd-Party Sellers

When you buy from an unlicensed private seller, you face real risks:

• No warranty or protection if something breaks down.

• Misrepresented mileage or accident history.

• Questionable title status.

• Zero accountability if things go wrong.

It’s a bit like believing one of those wild myths: funny at first glance, but costly once reality hits.

Why Dealerships Are Different

Licensed dealerships don’t operate on myths. By law, they must:

• Hold proper state licenses.

• Follow consumer protection codes.

• Disclose accurate info about every car (VIN, odometer, recalls).

• Stand behind what they sell.

That means the car you drive home isn’t hiding skeletons in the glove box.

So, while we can’t keep you out of trouble for squealing your tires in Wichita, we can keep you out of trouble when it comes to buying your next vehicle.

Do your research, know the facts, and when you’re ready, come see us. We’ll help you find a car you can trust, no weird laws required.

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When Hindsight Makes You Look Like A Genius

Sometimes, the best features in a car or truck aren’t part of some master plan. They show up as afterthoughts, niche experiments, or even happy accidents. But once drivers get a taste, these features become absolute must-haves.

Here’s a look at some of the most surprising success stories in automotive design—features that weren’t supposed to matter but ended up changing the way we drive.

Car Features That Surprised Everyone

1. The Third Brake Light

What started as a small safety experiment in the 1970s ended up saving lives. When researchers added a high-mounted brake light (now known as the third brake light) to test vehicles, they saw a major drop in rear-end collisions. The results were so convincing that it became mandatory on all cars sold in the U.S. starting in 1986. Drivers didn’t ask for it—but once it was there, it made a huge difference.

2. Cup Holders

Believe it or not, older cars didn’t even have cup holders. But when minivans and Japanese imports started offering them, American drivers quickly let manufacturers know they weren’t going back. Today, cup holder count is practically a selling point—especially for families and road-trippers.

3. All-Wheel Drive in Everyday Cars

Once reserved for rally cars and off-road vehicles, all-wheel drive made its way into everyday sedans and wagons almost by accident. Subaru leaned into it for snowy climates, and buyers loved the improved traction. Now it’s a feature shoppers actively seek—even if they never leave paved roads.

4. Backup Cameras

Originally a luxury perk, backup cameras have become a critical safety feature. They help prevent accidents, especially in driveways and parking lots. The unexpected bonus? They also make parking easier and stress-free. Drivers quickly realized this "gimmick" was a game-changer—and now it’s required in most new vehicles.

Truck Features That Started Small—But Took Off Big

5. Multi-Function Tailgates

Once viewed as quirky or overly complicated, today’s advanced tailgates (like GMC’s MultiPro and Ford’s workbench-style tailgate) offer built-in steps, seats, and adjustable loading options. What started as a novelty became a utility feature that working professionals and weekend warriors now depend on.

6. Tailgate Bed Steps

When GM introduced a fold-out step in the bumper to help climb into the truck bed, it seemed like a minor add-on. But for contractors, farmers, and anyone loading gear every day, it turned out to be a back-saving bonus. Now it’s a standard convenience many truck owners wouldn’t go without.

7. RamBox and In-Bed Storage

Ram’s built-in lockable side boxes were originally designed for tools, but buyers found all kinds of uses—from fishing rods to emergency gear to cold drinks for tailgating. It started off niche but has since become a signature Ram truck feature.

8. Power Outlets and Onboard Generators

Power outlets in trucks started as handy extras for campers or job sites. But in recent years—especially during weather emergencies—features like Ford’s Pro Power Onboard generator have kept homes lit and fridges running. A "nice-to-have" suddenly became a lifesaver.

9. Crew Cab Popularity

Once used mostly for work crews, extended cab pickups went mainstream when families realized they could have truck capability and SUV-level comfort. That shift reshaped the truck market—now, crew cabs dominate full-size truck sales.

10. The Return of the Mid-Size Truck

For a while, compact pickups disappeared from U.S. showrooms. But demand for smaller, more affordable, easy-to-park trucks led to a comeback. Models like the Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado, and Toyota Tacoma proved there’s a big market for right-sized capability.

When The Unexpected Makes Everyday Driving Better

Sometimes, it’s not the horsepower or high-end tech that wins you over—it’s the practical, thoughtful touches you didn’t know you needed. From tailgate steps to hidden storage compartments and backup cameras, these “small” features often end up having the biggest impact.

We believe great vehicles are built on smart design—both big and small. Our inventory includes the latest models with the kinds of features that make life easier, driving more enjoyable, and ownership more rewarding.

Stop by and discover how the right little detail can make a big difference.

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What is the difference between front wheel drive and all wheel drive?

When you are looking for a new car, one of the decisions you have to make is whether to get a front wheel drive (FWD) or all wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. Both options have their pros and cons, so which one should you choose? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each option:

How Do Front Wheel Drives Cars Work

Front wheel drive cars are powered by the front wheels, while the back wheels simply rotate and provide traction. This is different from rear wheel drive cars, which are powered by the back wheels. Front wheel drive cars are more stable and easier to control than rear wheel drive cars, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

Another way to explain it would be to say that a front wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the front wheels, while a rear wheel drive vehicle transfers power from the engine to the back wheels.

What are the pros of front wheel drive vehicles

• Front wheel drive vehicles are better for fuel economy because only the front wheels are used to power the car. This means that less power is needed, and you will save on gas money.

• Rear wheel drive vehicles are better for getting through tough terrain and handling curves. The weight of the engine is at the back of the car, which gives it more stability when driving on winding roads or in slippery conditions.

What are the cons of front wheel drive vehicles

Front wheel drive vehicles can sometimes be less stable than all wheel drive vehicles, especially when cornering or braking. This is because the weight of the engine is pushing down on the front wheels, which can cause them to lose traction. Additionally, front wheel drive vehicles can be more difficult to control in icy or snowy conditions.

How does all wheel drive work?

All wheel drive is a system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This can help improve traction and handling in slippery or challenging conditions. AWD systems vary in complexity, with some relying on sensors to detect when the car needs more traction and distributing power accordingly. Others use a center differential to split the power between the front and rear wheels.

Regardless of the system in use, all wheel drive can provide a safer and more sure-footed driving experience. If you're looking for a car that can handle any condition, consider an all wheel drive model.

What are the pros of all wheel drive vehicles

All wheel drive vehicles are better in slippery conditions because all four wheels are used to power the car. This gives you more traction and prevents you from slipping and sliding. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, an AWD car is a better option. They also provide more stability and control than FWD cars when driving on slick surfaces.

What are the con's of an all wheel drive car?

All wheel drive cars can be more expensive than front wheel drive cars. They also require more maintenance, as all of the components need to be working properly in order to distribute power evenly. AWD cars can also be less fuel-efficient than FWD cars, and they take up more space on the road.

So Which Type Of Car Car Should I Get?

That’s a question that can only be answered by you. Consider the pros and cons of both front wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles to see which option would be best for your needs. If you live in an area with lots of icy or snowy conditions, an all wheel drive vehicle might be a better option. But if you live in a warmer climate and don’t need the extra traction, a front wheel drive vehicle could be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!