Essential Items to Keep in Your Car

Some people keep their car as clean as the day they left the auto dealership in Jefferson City, while others keep enough items in their car to live for weeks. At Spieler's Inc., we believe it is important to be prepared for anything when traveling in your vehicle. We have compiled a list of items we think are essential to have in your car at all times:

Car Repair and Maintenance

Breaking down is never a pleasant experience, but at least you can be prepared by keeping some basic tools that can get you back on the road again.

• Spare tire, along with a tire jack and tire iron - If you are stranded, you will be able to change the tire yourself as long as you have all three of these. If your wheels require a special key, make sure to keep it in the car.
• Tire inflater and sealer - Keeping a product like Fix-a-Flat on hand may get you to the repair shop without changing the tire. 
• Jumper cables - You never know when you or someone else will have a dead battery and jumper cables will be warranted. 
• Your car's manual - Keep your car's manual in the glove compartment, so that you know what your car's warning signals mean.
• Car repair information - Always keep your car insurance claim forms and contact information for your repair shop handy. 
• Tire pressure gauge - Having a low tire may cause a flat or blowout. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your car and check the pressure regularly.  This overlooked basic maintenance procedure can greatly affect the performance of your vehicle.

Safety and Survival

Keeping an emergency kit in your car is a good idea whether you are just traveling to and from work or spending a great deal of time commuting in your car. Some of the essential safety items to keep in your car in case of emergency are:

• First-aid kit
• Flashlight
• Multi-tool
• Matches and candle
• Energy bars
• Water bottles
• Weather radio
• Seat belt cutter
• Window breaker
• Flares or reflective triangle
• Paper maps

Convenience and Comfort

Many of the essential items on this list can easily fit into a large canvas bag or plastic storage bin. There are some additional items you may want to add to your car that may make your trips more convenient when traveling with kids, or when it is raining perhaps. You never know when you may be out and some of these other things might come in handy: 

• Paper towels
• Kleenex or a roll of toilet paper
• Pen and paper
• Umbrella
• Spare cash in case of emergency
• Blanket
• Change of clothes
• USB mobile device charger

Spieler's Inc.Wants You to Be Prepared on the Road

Spieler's Inc. has been your family-owned car dealer in Jefferson City since 1968. We know this list isn't exhaustive and your needs might vary, but your safety and comfort on the road is important to us. Even if it sounds like a lot, by being prepared, you can make any emergency situations less stressful.

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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Factors That Influence Your Car Insurance Rates

Getting a new car from the #1 auto dealership in Jefferson City is one of the best feelings. Nothing beats that new smell and freshly detailed exterior. However, there are some serious measures to take to protect yourself and your new car from damages once you drive off of the lot. If you finance your vehicle with Spieler's Inc., you will be required to carry car insurance. Even if you are able to pay cash for your car, you must carry some form of liability coverage to protect other drivers on the road. Here are some factors that could influence how high your car insurance rates will be:

Driving History 

The number of miles you drive annually and previous accidents are considered your driving history. If you drive less miles, you are considered less likely to have an accident. If you don't have a history of accidents or moving violations, you are considered a safe driver, and less likely to file a claim.

The Type of Car you Drive

Insurance premiums are based partly on the sticker price of a car, how much it would cost to repair, its overall safety, and the likelihood of theft, according to the Insurance Information Institute. The cost to repair a new $225,000 Ferrari is going to be substantially more than a used $30,000 truck at your Dodge dealership in Jefferson City.

Your Personal Information

Insurance companies look at factors such as age groups and whether you are male or female. They base their rates on previous insurance claims made by drivers. A teenage boy's rates will be higher than a middle-aged woman because statistically teenage boys have more accidents. Your occupation can affect your insurance rates, if you do a lot of driving. An outside sales job, such as a real estate agent may be more at risk of having an accident. Car insurance companies also look at local costs of medical care, auto repair, and whether your area has a high number of auto thefts.

Consider Use-Based Insurance

Use-based insurance is more tailored to you and your personal driving record. You will not be paying premiums based on what people similar to you are paying. This means a teenager with an excellent driving history could have more affordable rates. Use-based premiums are based on components such as mileage and driving speed and vary among areas and insurance companies.

Ask About Discounts

Explore all of your options when shopping for insurance. There are discounts for low-mileage drivers, seniors, good students, and cars with anti-theft and other safety devices. Generally, using the same company for your home and autos will give you a discount as well. Ask your insurance agent for a list of discounts.

Get Your Next Vehicle at Spieler's Inc.

Spieler's Inc. has been your family-owned auto dealer in Jefferson City since 1968. Let us help you find your next Dodge, Chrysler, or Jeep. We want you to have first-rate protection on the road for yourself and your new vehicle. Do some research so that you get the best car insurance rates possible. We look forward to handling your next vehicle transaction!

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

Follow us on Twitter

Follow us on LinkedIn

Tips to Be Prepared For Your Next Road Trip

Spring Break is coming and for some people that means a road trip. Don’t cut your trip short with unnecessary stops for car maintenance. Before your trip, take your vehicle to a car dealership in Jefferson City for a checkup, and some basic inspections. With some preventive maintenance, you can be prepared for your adventure. Here are some tips to follow before you hit the road:

Do a Basic Checkup

 

Perform a basic inspection on your vehicle. Check that windshield wipers are functioning properly and fill any fluids that may be low. Make an appointment at your Jefferson City car dealership for an oil change and any other necessary tune ups. When your vehicle is in top shape, it has a better chance of performing and staying reliable during your trip.

Inspect Your Tires

Look for any tears or bulges in the side walls of your tires. Make sure you have plenty of tread on your tires and the pressure is correct. Match the tire pressure to the number printed inside the driver's side door jam or owner's manual. 

Check the Battery

Your battery power should be strong and the terminals clean for the best performance. A battery that is clean lasts longer than a dirty one. A little baking soda and water will clean it up. If you see major cracks in the battery case or obvious corrosion, replace the battery regardless of its electrical performance or age.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Make an emergency kit in case of an accident or medical issue. Don't forget a flashlight, blanket, first-aid kit, tools, and a flare. Pack extra water and snacks in case of prolonged traffic congestion.

Track Your Route

Consider getting a GPS navigation device or mapping out your route before you go. Newer GPS devices will generally list restaurants and fuel stations along your way, as well as alternate routes in case of traffic delays. GPS Navigators can also direct emergency services to you in case something should happen. 

Do Extra Prep if Traveling with Kids or Pets

Children or four legged friends can require extra preparation. Bring additional games, music, snacks, and things to entertain kids. Don’t forget your pets in case of unexpected breaks. Bring leashes, pet snacks, and clean up bags. Check with any accommodations beforehand to make sure they allow animals. 

Spieler's Inc. Can Prepare You for Your Next Trip

Spieler's Inc. has been your family-owned Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep dealership in Mid-Missouri since 1968. Let us handle all of your automotive needs. We understand having a reliable vehicle is essential to go the distance on your next road trip. To schedule an appointment with our service department, call (573) 796-3129. Our trained technicians can get you in and on your way to take that much needed break.

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

Follow us on Twitter

Follow us on LinkedIn

Things to Consider Before Buying a Car

There are many things to think about before you arrive at the #1 car dealership in Jefferson City, and drive home a new or used auto. Know your credit score, understand what you can afford, research any rebates available, know the value of your vehicle if doing a possible trade, and determine how much cash you have to put down. These factors can help determine the final sale price of the vehicle you want to purchase.

Your Credit Score

When financing a car, your credit score will be a big indicator of how much cash you will need to put down. If you have good credit history, your lender will generally not require you to put as much money down. A higher credit score shows the bank you are at lower risk to default on the loan. Keep in mind, for new cars, lenders may require as much as 20 percent down. If your credit history is not as good, the bank will require a higher down payment to secure the loan. If the car needs to be repossessed, the bank will have to sell the car, possibly at a loss.

How Much Cash to Put Down for a Vehicle

The more cash you have available to you, the more you can swing for a down payment. By allocating a larger down payment, you can lower your monthly payments without lengthening the term. In 2015, Edmunds reported the average down payment for new and used car purchases was about 10.4 percent. However, your down payment does not have to be a specific percentage. It should be what you can reasonably afford. Don't deplete your emergency fund or spend money designated for other recurring payments.

Down Payments Can Be More Than Cash

Down payments do not have to be all in cash. If you have another vehicle to trade in, it can count as part of your down payment, provided it has enough value. The dealer and owner of the vehicle will typically come to an agreement on the value, which is directly deducted from the purchase price of the new vehicle. Rebates and dealer incentives can also lower the final payments of the vehicle. If the dealership or automaker offers rebates, they will be subtracted from the purchase price as well.

Be Prepared Before You Make a Purchase

Make sure you take everything into consideration involving the sale, before you make the purchase at the new or used car dealership in Jefferson City. Know what you can afford, research your trade in options, and find out about any qualifying rebates. This can help you decide on a down payment that is comfortable for you. You can then get a quote for financing from the dealership or seek outside financing.

Spieler's Inc. Financing

Spieler's Inc. offers flexible car loan or lease programs. If you would like to explore options for auto financing in Jefferson City, our Dodge, RAM, Chrysler and Jeep financing experts can help find a loan to fit your needs. Contact us at (573) 796-3129 or stop by one of our locations in Jefferson City, Columbia, and Lebanon. We want your financing experience to be as easy as driving off the lot in your new vehicle.

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

Follow us on Twitter

Follow us on LinkedIn