7 Bad Driving Habits To Break

Last year there were about 50,000 people injured in vehicle collisions in Missouri. This number can be reduced by practicing safe driving habits. Many drivers fall victim to bad driving habits that develop over time. Your trusted car dealer in Mid-MO is here to point out some of those bad habits that drivers should break. Spieler’s Inc. cares about your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Phone Usage

Distracted driving is the cause of many accidents. Looking at your phone instead of focusing on the road is a dangerous distraction. Even if you are watching the road while on a phone call, you still may be more focused on your conversation than driving.

Speeding

A common bad habit for many drivers is speeding. Speed limits are set for the purpose of keeping drivers safe. Usually speeding will not get a driver to their destination that much quicker. Take your time when driving and leave in plenty of time to avoid going over the speed limit when traveling on the road.

Following Too Close

A good rule of thumb is to allow 1 car length for every 10mph you are traveling. For example, if you are going 60mph, you want to have 6 car lengths of space between your car and the car in front’s bumper. Allowing adequate room between vehicles gives enough time to react if the car in front were to break suddenly.

Lack of Turn Signal Use

Many drivers do not use a turn signal when turning or changing lanes. This helps show other drivers on the road which direction you plan to turn or merge. If you do not use a turn signal, another driver may not be aware of where you plan to move your vehicle.

Not Checking Blind Spot

Blind spots are a common issue for most drivers. Some will check their mirror and make a move on the road according to what their mirror shows. Physically turning to check the blind spot of your vehicle can help reveal the actual situation on the road around you.

Speed Up Through Yellow Light

When a light turns yellow, many drivers will accelerate through the intersection to avoid stopping at the soon approaching red light. When a driver speeds through, the light may have already turned red which triggers the alternating lights to turn green. This can lead to an unnecessary wreck in an intersection.

Not Wearing Safety Restraint

Wearing a seatbelt while driving or riding in a vehicle is not only the law, but a huge safety precaution. Unfortunately wrecks do happen and having a seatbelt on helps to keep the individual in their seat. Keeping your safety device buckled while the car is in motion can improve your chances for surviving if a crash does occur.

Many people are injured due to vehicle collisions each year. Practicing safe driving habits can help eliminate some of these injuries. Driving is a very important responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Driving safely can help make the roadways a better place for everyone to travel. The best car dealer in Mid-MO is here to help you by providing information and tips on vehicles, driving and more!

Proudly Serving the Columbia,

Jefferson City, and California, MO Areas

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

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9 Fun Road Trip Games

What are you going to do to keep the kids busy on your upcoming road trip? Taking a trip with the family should be a fun time spent together, making memories to last a lifetime.  Sometimes the children (and adults!) need a little entertainment when making a long trek down the highway. Put those digital devices away because your trusted car dealer in Mid-MO is here to share some fun road trip activities the entire family can enjoy.

1. The License Plate Game

As you drive down the road, everyone in the car looks for license plates from different states. The goal is to spot vehicles from all 50 states, although Alaska and Hawaii are rare finds!

2. Tic-Tac-Toe

This classic game will keep 2 members of your road trip entertained for a while. Two players are assigned an X or an O; the two alternate placing their symbol, and then the player with 3 in a row wins. Make a tournament with all passengers or play best of 5 to extend the game.

3. 20 Questions

In the popular road trip game, 20 Questions, the first player mentally chooses an answer; then all participants try to narrow down the answer by asking questions. If the carload gets to the twentieth question without figuring out the answer, the answer is revealed.

4. I Spy

Most people are familiar with I Spy. This is a fun way to get everyone on your road trip involved. The first player starts off with, “I spy with my little eye, something (color/shape)”. The person who spots the correct item wins and is now the one who chooses an object.

5. Hangman

Passengers can play hangman on paper or a small white board. The “Wheel of Fortune” based game gives players a chance to guess the letters that make up the phrase. This is a fun way to test knowledge and pass the time.

6. The Alphabet Game

Similar to I Spy, The Alphabet Game can be played by anyone in the car. Players look for any object outside the vehicle that has letters. The trick to the game is to go in order through the alphabet as you pass signs, buildings, or any object with words. Be warned, this game can be pretty dry if there are few signs along the road you travel.

7. Spot The Car

Another fun twist to I Spy, a player starts the game by selecting a car make and model and everyone tries to spot that type of vehicle. The first person to spot the right car gets to pick the next type to find.

8. The Singing Game

If your group is into music, this is the game for you! When a song comes on and everyone is singing along, randomly mute the radio. The last person still accurately singing the lyrics is the winner.

9. I’m Going on a Picnic

Memory games are a great way to spend time on a road trip. The first participant starts with, “I’m going on a picnic and I’m bringing….(something that starts with an A). The next person will start the phrase over and add an item that starts with the better B. The goal is to continue through the entire alphabet. The player who is stumped when remembering the full list of items to bring on a picnic loses.

Enjoy some of these games on your next road trip with the family. Before you head out, bring your vehicle by Spieler’s Inc. to get checked over to ensure everything is functioning properly. The best car dealer in Mid MO is here to help you make your road trip a success. With safety and entertainment checked off your list, you are ready to roll out on your next adventure with the family!

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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Manual vs Automatic Vehicles

Many people wonder which is better, a manual or an automatic shift. There are pros and cons to both transmission types. Your trusted car dealer in California, MO is here to help you distinguish which is best for you. Drivers usually gravitate to what they know and are comfortable driving.

Manual Transmission

-Operation

Driving a stick shift, or manual, takes a little practice. You have to physically shift through the gears as the car accelerates. In order to shift, the driver needs to engage the clutch which is usually a separate pedal to the left of the break. The process of pushing in the clutch to shift into the next gear can be intimidating to some drivers who are not comfortable with this method. Once you master shifting, it should be a smooth transition from gear to gear.

-Cost of Purchase

Typically, manual transmission vehicles cost about a thousand dollars cheaper than their automatic counterparts. Not every vehicle is made in a stick shift option, so finding the right car for your needs that is a manual may be challenging.

-Maintenance Cost

The cost associated with maintaining a stick shift vehicle is usually less than an automatic. There are less parts to deal with in the shifting mechanism, which makes working on them a little easier. Transmission fluid does need to be replaced periodically to ensure the moving parts are lubricated, but does not need to be done as often as with automatic transmissions.

-Fuel Economy

Manual shift vehicles typically get 2-5 mpg better on fuel usage than automatics. This can save a significant amount of money at the gas pump over the lifespan of the car.

Automatic Transmission

-Operation

Many people believe that operating an automatic transmission vehicle is much easier than a manual. The shifting of gears process still takes place, but it is done by a mechanical feature internally. No extra steps need to be taken by the driver. The convenience factor makes a big impact when people are selecting an automatic over a manual. For those that are used to driving a manual, a big difference when driving an automatic is that you have to hold the break down when at a stop.

-Cost of Purchase

An automatic car usually costs a little more than a stick shift, as stated earlier. Many people justify this because of the inconvenience of having to physically shift through the gears when driving.

-Maintenance Cost

Many mechanics would prefer to work on a manual shift, therefore the expense for repairs on an automatic are higher. There is an additional internal feature that actually does the shifting for the driver. This is another part of the vehicle that can break down when it comes to repairs.

-Fuel Economy

Automatic vehicles traditionally get worse fuel economy than manuals. Since fuel economy is such an important buying factor in the car industry right now, many automakers have worked on improving the fuel economy of automatic transmissions.

The debate between automatic and manual shift is an ongoing one. When choosing between the two transmission types, it really comes down to personal preference. If you are used to a certain shifting method, that is usually what you will gravitate toward. The best car dealer in Mid-Mo can help you determine which transmission option is the best for you and your needs. When you are in the market for a new vehicle, visit the expert team at Spieler’s Incorporated.

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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5 Car Shopping Tips

Purchasing a vehicle is an important decision. For many people, this purchase is typically the second largest investment you’ll make. Your trusted car dealer in Mid MO is here to help you find the perfect vehicle with some car shopping tips. We pride ourselves on making the search for a vehicle fun and easy. Our low pressure sales team will consider your wants and needs to find the perfect fit for you. Spieler’s Inc. is here to make your car shopping and buying experience hassle free.

1. Know Your Wants and Needs

Determining your wants and needs in a vehicle can really help narrow down your search. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly SUV or a new sporty ride, having a purpose in mind will help prevent being overwhelmed when walking on to the car lot. If your current vehicle has features you like and dislike, keep these in mind when looking for a new ride. It is a good idea to make a list of your likes and dislikes so they do not slip your mind once you find a car you like.

2. Determine a Budget

Your budget is another factor that will help you refine your car shopping experience. If you know a car is out of your price range, you should not consider it. Sticking to this method can help ensure you do not fall in love with a vehicle you simply cannot afford. Keep your budget in mind when looking for different options at our dealership.

3. Look Online

Before heading to our dealership, you can see the current selection on our website. This helps to give a shopper an idea of what vehicles are currently in stock. Checking out a few different options that interest you online can help when it comes to physically visiting our dealership. You will hopefully have a few rides in mind that you want to take a look at and this helps us get an idea of what types of cars you are looking for. At this point, we can make suggestions to similar vehicles if you want to see more options.

4. Book an Appointment

We want to make your car shopping experience pleasant. By booking an appointment, we will have a sales member ready to assist you when you arrive. If you mention some of the vehicles you are interested in looking at when you set up the appointment, we can have them ready for you to test drive.

5. Take a Test Drive

Take your time when you are conducting a test drive. There is no reason to feel rushed. This is an important step in the car buying process. It is your time to look over the vehicle and assess how it feels to you. Make sure and check out all the features the car offers during the test drive. Remember the list of things you made that you like and do not like about your current vehicle? This is a great time to pull that out and verify that this ride has exactly what you are looking for in a vehicle.

Shopping for a new or used vehicle should be a pleasant experience. Following the 5 step process provided above will help make car shopping with Spieler’s Inc. a success. Just remember to take your time and evaluate what you are looking for in a vehicle. We pride ourselves on being a low pressure dealership. Call us today to set up your appointment for a test drive!

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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Missouri Summer Road Trip Ideas!

Summer is the best time of year for road trips. Many lifelong memories are made on road trips with your family. The best car dealer in California, Mo has compiled a list of fun day trips for you and your family to take this summer. Start making those memories now with any of these day trip destinations!

St Louis Zoo

The St. Louis Zoo is a great place to bring the family. With close to 15,000 wild animals, this destination is sure to be entertaining for all attending. Admission to this fun attraction is free, although some exhibits and demonstrations do cost. The zoo would be a great way to entertain the family while learning about animals too!

Silver Dollar City

Amusement parks are a fun way to spend a summer day. Silver Dollar City is a great option for a destination. The park has over 40 rides and attractions to keep you and the family entertained all day. There are also indoor shows to enjoy if you need to take a break from the sun and cool down for a bit. Silver Dollar City also offers demonstrations such as blacksmith, candy making, wood carving, and glass blowing to name a few.

Photo Credit: funlake.com

Ha Ha Tonka State Park

Taking a road trip to hike at Ha Ha Tonka State Park is another great way to spend the day. Located at the Lake of the Ozarks, one of the area’s most historic places is the home to ruins of the castle built by the Snyder family. There are over 14 miles of hiking paths throughout the property, offering different scenery at every turn. The natural spring feeds into the lake at the bottom of the beautiful bluff. Many caves dot the landscape of Ha Ha Tonka as well.                                 

Steamboat Arabia

Make learning fun with a trip to the Steamboat Arabia Museum in Kansas City. This destination is a time capsule of the days of the American Frontier. Arabia was a steamboat that was claimed by the Missouri River in 1856. The river actually changed its path over the years and the steamboat was dug up over 100 years later. Taking a step back in time with the artifacts recovered from the boat is a fun way to spend your day.

The Gateway Arch

Across the state in St. Louis, the arch is one of the most popular destinations the area has to offer. The arch represents the Gateway to the West when our country was being explored. With the Arch spanning 630-feet tall, you can see miles from the top. Around the Arch on the riverbank, there are other activities you can partake in as well, like a river cruise or shopping.

 

Mark Twain Attractions

Hannibal is the home of the famous author Mark Twain. His boyhood home is open for tours to get a glimpse inside his life. Mark Twain Cave is another popular destination around Hannibal. The cave holds a constant 52 degrees year round, making for a nice way to cool down in the hot summer months. Sightseeing on the Missouri River is another way to continue your experience with the Mark Twain Riverboat. Many of his writings center around the river and this area gives you a chance to see what he experienced as a child.

Crown Center

A day trip to Crown Center in Kansas City is another exciting item on the list of road trips in Missouri. This family-friendly destination has countless options for kids and adults of all ages. Kaleidoscope encourages the creative side with hands on inventive activities. Another hands on experience is Legoland - a child’s dreamland with endless Legos at different stations for kids to play and create their masterpieces. The Sea Life Aquarium is the newest edition to Crown Center. You and your family can see 30 display tanks and more than 5,000 creatures within those tanks. Crown center is a great destination for a fun and educational road trip.

Many families take road trips in the summer when the kids are off school and have some extra time. These destinations listed above are all fun-filled ways to spend time with the family. Before you head out on a day trip to any of these destinations, it’s important to get your vehicle checked over. The best service department in Mid Mo can help check out your car to ensure your family road trips go as planned. Get out there and have fun this summer!

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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Our Current Featured Rides

If you are looking for a new car this summer, check out the best car dealer in Mid Missouri! Our knowledgeable sales staff can help find the right car for your wants and needs. The current inventory at Spieler’s Inc. offers some of the best deals around! In today’s blog, we’ll take a look at some featured vehicles that are in stock and priced perfectly for you!  

2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn

This Flame Red 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn quad cab truck is a great choice, whether you need a work truck or a daily driver. This truck gets 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Comfort was high on the priority list when this four door truck was designed. The safety features on it make for a safe ride for you and your family. More details about this tough Ram 1500.

• Price: $40,403
• Drive Line: 4x4
• Engine: 3.0L V-6 cyl
• Transmission: 8 speed automatic
• Exterior Color: Flame Red, Interior Color: Diesel Gray/Black
• Stock Number: 115x617568
• VIN: 1C6RR7GMXFS617568

2015 Chrysler 200

Another great option on the featured list is this 2015 Chrysler 200. This sleek ride is sure to stand out on the road. The black exterior with chrome trim and leather interior has an elegant feel. This ride gets 32 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in town. The comfort and safety features on this Chrysler 200 are outstanding. With the look and feel of a luxury car, this deal will not last long! More details on this vehicle.

• Price: $30,693
• Drive Line: Front-wheel Drive
• Engine: 3.6L V-6 cyl
• Transmission: 9 speed automatic
• Exterior Color: Black, Interior Color: Black
• Stock Number: 415x699589
• VIN: 1C3CCCCG5FN699589

2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4

A third great deal on our current inventory list is this 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4. The beautiful Cashmere Pearlcoat color with chrome accent is a classy combination. This four-wheel drive SUV gets 17 mpg in the city and mpg on the highway. This vehicle’s superior design boasts convenience and safety features throughout. More details on this Grand Cherokee.

• Price: $45,970
• Drive Line: 4x4
• Engine: 3.6L V-6 cyl
• Transmission: 8 speed automatic
• Exterior Color: Cashmere Pearlcoat, Interior Color: Light Frost/Brown
• Stock Number: 315x922405
• VIN: 1C4RJFCG0FC922405

These featured vehicles showcase some of the great rides that Spieler’s Inc. has to offer. If you are in the market to trade in or buy a new vehicle, come by and check out our inventory! Be sure to schedule a test drive with us to make your experience even more convenient. We would love to help you find the right vehicle for you and your family. Our low pressure sales team looks forward to helping you find your dream vehicle in California, MO!

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

Like us on Facebook

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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

Visit our website: www.spielersinc.com

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