Dangers of Leaving Your Pets in the Car During Summer

Hundreds of pets die each year due to overheating because their owners leave them in the vehicle. Even if the heat is not fatal for your furry friend, the high temperature can still cause illness and heatstroke. You may think that you will be quick running your errands, the best car dealer in Mid Missouri is here to help you understand the dangers of leaving your pet in the car even for a short time.  The temperature inside your vehicle increases rapidly in the summer months. Within ten minutes, the interior of your vehicle can rise about twenty degrees. Many people try to keep their cars cooler by partially rolling a window down. While this can help with air flow for your pet, it does not combat the high temperature completely.

How Pets Cool Down

Sweat is the primary defense our bodies use against heat. While humans sweat through glands on the skin, pets excrete sweat differently. The fur that covers the skin on cats and dogs makes it difficult for sweat to escape their bodies; therefore, their feet is the main location for sweat to exit their bodies. The lack of sweat glands covering the bodies of pets is one reason they overheat more quickly than humans. Animals also pant when the temperature is uncomfortable for them. Panting helps distribute air to cool down their bodies. If the air they are inhaling to pant is warm, this makes it harder to self-cool.

Warning Signs Your Pet is Too Hot

A warning sign that a pet is getting too warm is that they will begin to pant heavily. Moving slowly is another sign that your pet may be overheated.  Your pet may also begin to have a rapid pulse, start vomiting, or their eyes may become glazed over. Once an animal is overheated, they become weak and can collapse. Some animals suffer from nervous system failure, which can cause brain damage among other impairments. Pets who suffer from being overheated can also suffer from permanent cardiovascular damage. Being overheated can be fatal for your pet.

Precautions to Prevent Your Pet from Overheating

There are precautions you can take to help prevent your pet from overheating in your vehicle this summer. The most advised and safest option is to leave your furry friend at home when you are out and about. Leaving your car running with the air on is another option to keep your pet cool during the warm months. If you do bring your pet with you in the car, remember to keep cool drinking water available. If you see any of the warning signs of heat exhaustion in your animal, quickly take them into an air conditioned establishment to lower their body temperature. You can also help cool your pet down by placing damp rags on its feet and body.

Getting overheated for a pet is very dangerous. It can cause sickness and even death in some circumstances. The temperature inside a vehicle can rise to a life threatening level very quickly. If you notice your vehicle having issues with the air conditioning, bring it into our vehicle maintenance department Spieler’s Inc. Keep your pets safe this summer by being aware of the dangers of leaving them in hot vehicles. 

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

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A Basic Guide to Car Batteries

Batteries are one of the most important aspects of cars. Without the battery, your car would not be able to run. How much do we know about this important element? What happens when it dies? Is there a way to make it last longer? Are we supposed to do regular maintenance on it? If your car won’t start, is it actually the battery or is it something else? Spieler’s Inc has all the answers to these questions and more.

Know Your Battery

Commercial use of lead acid batteries has been around for over 100 years old. If you understand the basics, you will have fewer battery problems and a longer lasting battery. Lead-acid batteries are made up of plates, lead and lead oxide, with a 35 percent sulfuric acid and 65 percent water solution. This solution is called electrolyte, which causes a chemical reaction that produces electrons. When testing a battery with a hydrometer, you are actually measuring the amount of sulfuric acid in the electrolyte. When your reading is low, it means that your battery is lacking the chemistry that makes electrons. The sulfur will rest on the battery plates; recharging the battery will allow the sulfur to return to the electrolytes.

Battery Life

Average battery life has decreased significantly and energy requirements have increased. The life of your battery depends on usage. They can last from 6 months to 2 years, yet very few car batteries last the full 2 years. Usually, the main issue related to battery failure is sulfation build-up. This occurs when the sulfur molecules in the battery acid begin to coat the lead plates. The plates become so coated that the battery dies. There are many reasons that this build-up can occur such as the battery sitting too long between charges, battery stored without some type of energy input, extreme heat or cold weather, low electrolyte level and incorrect charging levels and settings.

Battery Maintenance

The battery should be cleaned using a wire brush and a solution of one tablespoon baking soda and a cup of water. To prevent corrosion of the cables on top post batteries, use a small amount of silicone sealer at the base of the post and place a felt battery washer over it. Coat the washer with either high-temperature grease or petroleum jelly, and then place the cable on the post and tighten. Coat the exposed cable end with grease.  

Battery Charging

It is important to make sure your battery is keeping a full charge. If the battery is not charging fully, it will sulfate, which affects the performance and longevity. The alternator should keep the battery charged.  If your car is sitting for long periods of time, it is a good idea to keep a charger hooked up to the battery. Also, seasonal battery run items, such as ATVs, boats and motorcycles, should be hooked up to chargers before being stored to ensure the battery stays charged.

Battery, Alternator or Starter

When your car won’t start you will want to check the battery, alternator and starter to determine the issue. These parts all work closely together, so it can be hard to determine which one has failed.

Signs of a Dead Battery

• Low whining sound when attempting to start the car.
• Jump starting the car works, but the car will not start again after turning it off.

Signs of a Failed Alternator

• The smell of burning rubber or hot wires can come from the alternator overheating.
• Headlights and dash lights may flicker or get extra dim (gauges may also behave strangely).
• Jump starting works, but the engine dies right afterward.

Signs of a Failed Starter

• Clicking sounds when you turn the key.
• Car won’t start, but dash lights still turn on.
• Jump starting doesn’t work.

Car Maintenance Made Easy with Spieler’s Inc.

When your car won’t start, the worst case scenarios will all run through your mind. Before you panic, check the battery, alternator and starter. If you regularly charge and perform maintenance on your battery, you could prevent the worst case scenario issues. If you have any problems with your car, call the Spieler’s service team at 573-796-3129.  

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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Moonroof vs. Sunroof

Whether the car you’re purchasing is used or new, the features that come with it are important. With a brand new car, you get to choose which features you want or don’t want. With used cars, the features can be a deciding factor on whether or not that car is for you. One common feature among cars includes moonroofs and sunroofs. Many people use these terms interchangeably, but is there actually a difference between the two? Yes, and Spieler’s Inc is here to break down the difference for you.

Moonroofs

A moonroof is considered a type of sunroof that has a tinted glass panel that is actually an additional window in the roof of a car. It might also tilt upwards to allow fresh air to enter the car, but will not open completely. A glass moonroof will allow more sunlight to enter a car without the need to open it, which allows you to enjoy the sun no matter the weather conditions. A moonroof usually comes with a sliding panel that is upholstered to match the interior of the car.

Sunroofs

Originally, sunroofs were only opaque, if the glass was transparent, it was considered a moonroof. Today, however, sunroofs and moonroofs can both be made of transparent glass. Most sunroofs slide back and forth to completely open. Sunroofs can be electronically powered or manual. Manual sunroofs may include vents rather than a sliding panel. Sunroofs let in a variable amount of light into a vehicle depending on how much they are opened.

Types of Sunroofs

There are many different types of sunroofs available including:

Pop-up: Manually operated glass that pops out when in the open position. Sometimes these types of sunroofs can be entirely removed.

Built-in: Fully automatic and slides between the car’s roof when opened. These types can come with bonus features that include sun shade, auto-close, vents and more.

Tilt ‘n Slide: A combination of sliding inside and popping out for ventilation.

Top Mount: This type of sunroof operates on rails located on top of the car’s roof. Usually, they come with a wind deflector to prevent unwanted noise at high speeds.

Panoramic: A large or multi-paneled glass that offers openings at the front and rear seats. They could be operable or fixed glass panels.

Foldable: Some European cars may feature sunroofs that collapse back similar to the way convertible tops fold back. They are made of fabric and open wider than any glass sunroof.

While sunroofs and moonroofs are similar, there is a clear difference between them. When shopping for your next car at your family-owned Central Missouri car dealership, these differences can help you choose which option is best for you. Call our sales department today at 573-796-3129 or visit our website to see which options Spieler’s has available.

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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Preparing for Your Memorial Day Weekend Road Trip

Many people across the country are gearing up for their Memorial Day Weekend vacations. If you are planning on taking a road trip this weekend, there are some things that you should be mindful of before hitting the road. Spieler’s INC is here to help make sure your car is ready for any long or short distance trip.

1. Check Your Fluids

In order for a car to function properly, it has to have the proper amount of fluids. Whether it is the engine oil, brake fluid, antifreeze/coolant or even gasoline, make sure your car has the proper amount of each. You don’t want to get a few minutes down the road and find out you need to fill up, or don’t have enough oil in the car.

2. Check Your Tires

There are two things you need to focus on when checking your tires, including tire pressure and threads. Threads are important to insure proper traction.  Tire pressure is important to insure you do not get a flat tire while on your trip. In the summer, the air pressure should be closer to the maximum tire pressure. If you do not know what size your tire should be filled at, there is a PSI number on the side of the tire.

3. Check Your Lights

Check all the lights on your car, including the headlights, blinkers, break lights and interior lighting. Faulty lights can be dangerous on the road because other drivers will not be able gauge their distance from you. Also, you could be pulled over if your lights aren’t working properly. 

4. Check Your Windshield Wipers

In the Midwest, summer is considered the rainy season. You do not want to be stuck driving in a thunderstorm with windshield wipers that don’t work properly.

5. Check Your Air Conditioning

It gets hot and humid in the summer. You will want to make sure your air conditioning is working properly. The last thing you need on your road trip is to find out the AC is not working and you have to sweat your way through the rest of the drive.

6. Check Your Battery

Check your battery to ensure it is fully charged and has clean terminals. Your road trip will not be fun if your car won’t start.

7. Schedule a Check Up

If your car needs anything fixed before your trip, Spieler’s INC can help. Our service team can help with any issues your car is facing from oil changes to tire alignment. Visit our website for our current service department specials: http://www.spielersinc.com/index.asp. 

Enjoy the Ride! 

After your car is running smoothly, make sure you pack plenty of snacks and water. Don’t forget to regularly check your oil during long road trips. Spieler’s INC wishes everyone a happy Memorial Day Weekend and drive safe!

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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Is a Diesel-Powered Vehicle Right For You?

When you consider buying a car in Jefferson City, you have many options. Many vehicles are available with diesel engines. Most people think of trucks and other large, heavy vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, construction vehicles and school buses when they think of diesel-powered vehicles. However, passenger cars with diesel engines are becoming more popular, and car makers are rapidly making more of them. Spieler's Inc. has a selection of vehicles with diesel engines that provide our customers with fuel efficiency and power. Below are some things to consider in a diesel engine:

Fuel Efficiency

One of the main reasons people choose a diesel vehicle is the improved fuel efficiency. CarsDirect reports that a diesel car will frequently get about 30 percent more miles per gallon than the same car with a gas-powered engine. However, diesel fuel is generally more expensive than gasoline. Fortunately, because of the increased fuel efficiency, your trips to the pump will be less frequent. Even with the increased cost of diesel fuel, you can expect to pay less overall each year. Something to note, is that not all gas stations offer diesel fuel. It is important that you do not let your fuel tank get too low when traveling because only about 50 percent of all gas stations have diesel fuel pumps, according to Business Insider. If you drive a majority of the time on highways, driving a diesel-fueled vehicle could save you a lot of money in fuel costs. Diesel engines excel in highway miles, as opposed to frequent stopping and starting at traffic lights and stop signs. 

Vehicle Maintenance

In some ways, diesel-fueled engines require less maintenance. This is because these vehicles do not require spark plugs or distributors, which means there will be no need for an ignition tune up. However, routine auto maintenance, such as oil changes, along with air, oil and fuel filter changes is absolutely necessary. Failure to keep a diesel engine maintained with regular care can result in extreme circumstances. The fuel injection system can break down and require costly repairs. A certified Jefferson City auto dealership can provide service for diesel vehicles.

Engine Power

It is no wonder so many trucks have diesel engines. They can produce a high amount of low-end torque and have far better towing capabilities. If you frequently use a tow to haul very heavy items, then a diesel-powered engine is recommended over a gas-powered engine. Keep in mind, increased torque results in decreased horsepower. This means that a diesel-fueled car does not have as much get up and go. However, the engines are powerful and long-lasting.

Smoothness of Ride

Until recently, diesel-powered vehicles had the reputation of being smelly, noisy, and unstable. Today's diesel cars take advantage of current technology and building methods that make for a much quieter and smoother ride. Despite these improvements, if you are used to a gasoline-powered engine, you may not think a diesel-powered vehicle is as smooth or quiet, as they can occasionally make a clacking or clattering sound. 

Spieler's Inc. has a Selection of Diesel-Powered and Gas-Powered Vehicles For You to Choose From

There are several things to consider before you arrive at the auto dealership in Jefferson City. It is ultimately your decision, whether a diesel vehicle is right for you.  Whether you are looking for heavy duty and fuel efficient or you are a frequent city driver, Spieler's Inc. has a vehicle to meet your needs! Come in and talk to our trained sales staff today.

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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Find A Chrysler to Fit Your Lifestyle at Spieler's Inc.

If you are looking for a vehicle that has style, precision, power, and performance, consider a Chrysler. This manufacturer features vehicles that are sporty and sleek to luxurious and family-friendly. Chrysler makes a vehicle that can fit anyone's lifestyle. Take a look at some of the Chrysler's we have available at Spieler's Inc.:

2015 Chrysler 200 C Sedan

Outstanding design defines the 2015 Chrysler 200! This spectacularly designed vehicle challenges higher-priced competitors in its class! Chrysler infused the interior with top shelf amenities, such as: voice activated navigation, lane departure warning, and leather upholstery. It features a front-wheel-drive platform, an automatic transmission, and a refined 6 cylinder engine.

2010 Chrysler 300 Limited Sedan

What a fantastic deal! Load your family into the 2010 Chrysler 300. Comprehensive style mixed with all around versatility makes it an outstanding choice! This 4 door, 5 passenger sedan just recently passed the 40,000 mile mark! All of the premium features expected of a Chrysler are offered, including: heated door mirrors, remote keyless entry, and power front seats. A 3.5 liter V-6 engine pairs with a sophisticated 4 speed automatic transmission, and for added security, dynamic Stability Control supplements the drivetrain.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Touring Van

This Chrysler Pacifica won't be on the lot long! This is an excellent vehicle at an affordable price! Chrysler infused the interior with top shelf amenities, such as: automatic temperature control, fully automatic headlights, and a split folding rear seat. It features a front-wheel-drive platform, an automatic transmission, and a refined 6 cylinder engine.

2007 Chrysler Sebring Touring Sedan

Come test drive this 2007 Chrysler Sebring! It just arrived on our lot, and surely won't be here long! This 4 door, 5 passenger sedan provides exceptional value! Chrysler prioritized practicality, efficiency, and style by including: remote keyless entry, an overhead console, and air conditioning. It features an automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and a refined 6 cylinder engine.

2014 Chrysler Town & Country Touring-L Van

Get the whole family in this 2014 Chrysler Town & Country! This is a superior vehicle at an affordable price! With less than 40,000 miles on the odometer, this vehicle proves competitive in its price class based on its condition and value. Top features include power front seats, automatic dimming door mirrors, a power rear cargo door, and a blind spot monitoring system. Under the hood you'll find a 6 cylinder engine with more than 270 horsepower, and for added security, dynamic Stability Control supplements the drivetrain.

Find Your Next Chrysler at Spieler's Inc.

Whether you want to hit the town on Saturday in style or go out for a Sunday cruise with your family, Chrysler makes driving an enjoyable experience. Come by Jefferson City's best auto dealership to test drive any of our featured Chrysler vehicles or to view the other vehicles on the lot. Spieler's Inc. is your trusted Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep dealership in Central Missouri since 1968. Our dedicated and trained sales staff can make your dealership experience fast, fun, and hassle free!

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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Vehicle Interiors: Comparing Cloth and Leather Seats

When you have made the decision to purchase a new vehicle at your Jefferson City car dealership, you are likely to have quite a few choice to make including vehicle make and model, color selection, and deciding between cloth and leather seats. Spieler's Inc. has a large selection of vehicles to choose from and we want you to be happy with your decision. Today, we are going to discuss the differences between cloth and leather seats. Here is a comparison between the two types of interior materials:

Price 

Leather will generally always cost you more. Some car buyers may not know that there are more than
one type of leather, which can affect the price of the vehicle. The quality of the leather can range from "faux" to brushed to top-grain, and in some high-end vehicles, the luxuriously soft Nappa leather.

Hot Weather

One downfall to leather is how how it gets in summer months. Unlike cloth, leather absorbs heat. According to the National Safe Kids Campaigns, skin that touches a car-seat surface over 150 degrees Fahrenheit can be severely burned in one second. When it comes to hot weather, clo th tends can be less dangerous!

Cold Weather

Just as leather can be hot in the summer, it is cold in the winter months, if your car hasn't had ample time to warm up. Automakers have found a solution by providing heated leather seats in many of their luxury vehicles and higher-end models. This can make the vehicle a bit more pricey, but for some people well worth it.

Stains

Top-grain leather typically wipes clean unlike cloth unless you remember to Scotchguard them first. many cloth stains such as mud or food will clean up easily, but liquids such as ink, blood, and motor oil never fully disappear, although upholstery cleaner can help. Lower quality leathers can be susceptible to staining, but usually not as bad as cloth interior. 

Smell

Leather has a pleasant distinct aroma that most people associate with that familiar "new car" smell. Cloth tends to absorb unwanted odors because it is porous. Urine, vomit, spoiled milk, etc. can soak all the way into the cushions. The smell can stay in your car indefinitely.  

Maintenance

Leather requires continual maintenance. It needs to be cleaned and conditioned with specific products or it will eventually show signs of wear due to sweat, dust, and dirt. Without conditioning, it can harden and possibly crack. Cloth may also need some maintenance including periodic vacuuming, and steam cleaning.

Comfort

Leather comfort depends on the quality. Lower end leather can be hard and uncomfortable, while pricier leather can be as comfortable as sitting on your couch at home. Most people find cloth comfortable, as you don't slide around or stick to it on hot days.

Allergies

Cars are probably not the best place for allergy sufferers for several reasons, including open windows that bring the outdoors inside, swirling winds while driving, and the cleanliness of a car compared to a home. If you or your family member have allergies, you may want to consider leather. Pet dander, dust, and other allergens can settle into the cloth fabric, while leather you can wipe them clean. Of course, even vehicles with leather seats have carpeted floors, so they can only reduce allergens, not prevent them.

Choose From Spieler's Inc. Large Selection of Vehicles

Many times, choosing between cloth and leather interior comes down to a personal and financial decision. Both have very different qualities. When you buy a vehicle at your Jefferson City auto dealership, come to Spieler's Inc. for a vast selection of vehicles with many interior features to choose from.  

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

1109 W. Buchanan St.
California, MO 65018
(888) 455-2107

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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