Tag: truck

Categories
Great Used Cars

Can You Spare a Tire, Friend?

Man changing a flat tire on his car from Thrifty Car Sales

Flat Tires are Deflating

Stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire, you open your trunk and begin to look for the spare but wait a minute…it’s not there! Unfortunately, this is a common reality in the 2020s for all new vehicles as many new vehicles don’t come with a spare tire in the trunk anymore. 

You may be remembering times of the past in which a vehicle had a spare tire mounted in the trunk or underneath the vehicle and a small little jack to go with it. However those days — just like a vehicle’s spare tire — are gone.

Nowadays modern vehicles tend to come with no spare and just a small can of flat tire repair gel. While it gets the job done, this isn’t the most desirable way to handle an unexpected flat tire. 

Nobody wants to spend time on the side of the road,  at the mercy of the elements, all because of a flat tire. That’s why you need to carry a spare tire in your vehicle. Carrying a spare tire in your vehicle not only allows you to get back on the road quicker, but it provides peace of mind. There are a few different types of spare tires available on the market to suit every need, here’s a list of available types of spare tires.

Full-Size Spare

Sharing the same dimensions as the vehicle’s standard tire, a full-size spare is one of the most effective options for a spare tire there is. Unlike a temporary spare or “doughnut”, a full-size spare allows you to travel at regular speeds as if you never had a flat in the first place. 

Minimal downtime is one of the biggest upsides to a full-size spare, making it a great option for those who make a living on the road. Although the full-size spare offers plenty of benefits, there are some downsides as well. 

A full-size spare is heavy, which means it takes up more space — and consumes more fuel. This shouldn’t stop you from considering a full-size spare, but it should be something you take into consideration. 

If a full-size spare tire is the right option for you, call our parts professionals at Thrifty Car Sales today to order your full-size spare.

Temporary Full-Size Spare

While a true full-size spare is the most effective option, the drawback of it taking up so much space in the vehicle is something to consider. With that being said, if you don’t have the space for a full-size spare, a temporary full-size spare is a great alternative. 

A temporary full-size spare tire is just like your regular, full-size tire, but with smaller tread depth and less weight. This design saves space while remaining an effective spare tire option. 

A temporary full-size spare will allow you to safely drive to Thrifty Car Sales Service Center so you can get a new tire mounted and balanced on the car. A temporary full-size spare is a great option for those that carry a lot of cargo, or even those driving compact cars which don’t have a lot of room for a full-size spare.

Compact Temporary Spare

A compact temporary spare may not be the most effective option in terms of being able to drive on it for miles or at regular speeds. However, that doesn’t mean it’s completely ineffective or useless. With a compact temporary spare, you can travel a short distance at lower speeds in order to reach safety. 

The compact temporary spare is a bit smaller and narrower than a full-size spare but it’s still just as useful when you have an unexpected flat tire. These compact temporary spares or “doughnuts” tend to be the traditional spare tire most think of when they think of flat tire repair.

If you want a spare that will function long enough to help you arrive at Thrifty Car Sales Service Center for a repair — opt for the compact temporary spare.

Folding Temporary Spare:

A folding temporary spare is a small spare tire, similar to the “doughnut” spare but it is even more compact. It can be deflated and folded for easy storage, making it a great option for those with limited cargo space. 

These spares do require inflation before usage, which is an important thing to keep in mind when selecting the right spare tire to keep on hand. While you may not be able to travel at regular speeds with this tire, you will be able to safely arrive at Thrifty Car Sales Service Center. 

Run-Flat Tires 

The most cutting-edge technology when it comes to spare tires is the Run-Flat spare tire. Run-Flat tires allow you to keep driving at regular speeds for up to 50 miles from the initial puncture. 

This incredible technology allows a driver to safely and effectively drive in almost any type of condition to reach their mechanic’s shop in the event of an unexpected flat tire. Run-Flats are one of the most expensive spare tire options, but also one of the most effective outside of carrying a full-size spare.

Loving the sound of a Run-Flat tire? Then come on down to Thrifty Car Sales and have one of our parts professionals place your order today. Here at Thrifty Car Sales, we don’t just offer the best prices on our cars, we offer it on our parts as well. 

Let’s Get Rolling

While flat tires are almost always unexpected and incredibly inconvenient, they are an inevitable part of owning a vehicle. Making sure you select the right kind of spare tire that fits all of your needs is a great way to help minimize the interference of an unexpected flat tire. 

Utilizing a spare tire properly can save you time, money and aggravation, that’s why it’s important to have one handy. The function of most spare tires is to help you get off the road and arrive safely at a service center like the one here at Thrifty Car Sales.

Whether you want a set of Run-Flat tires or a temporary spare, the parts professionals here at Thrifty Car Sales can help. We offer the best selection of tires, spares and even Run-Flats — all at the best prices in Coopersburg. Don’t end up stranded waiting for a tow truck to arrive, equip your vehicle with a spare tire from Thrifty Car Sales today.

Categories
Great Used Cars

The Top 5 Reasons You Need an Electric Vehicle

Electric car at charging station. Front view electric car silhouette with green glowing on dark background. EV concept. Vector illustration

As gas prices continue to rise with no end in sight, the appeal of electric vehicles is growing stronger with each passing day. Whether you have a short drive to work or an hourslong commute, chances are you are feeling the squeeze of surging fuel prices. Fret not, as there is a solution — an electric vehicle! That’s right, electric vehicles are the best alternative to skyrocketing gas prices and they’re environmentally friendly too. 

While there are a number of reasons to purchase an electric vehicle in 2022, in this blog we’re going to list the five best reasons you should. Whether you’re budget conscious and looking for an alternative to these growing gas prices or you’re environmentally aware and looking for a way to benefit the earth, switching to an electric vehicle is one of the best decisions you stand to make. Gas prices aren’t going down any time soon, so don’t wait another minute, make the switch to an EV today. 

Tax Incentives

One of the many reasons you may want to make the switch to an EV are the potential tax incentives you may qualify for from federal, local or state government. In attempts to draw the public away from fossil-fueled engines, the U.S. government has begun to offer tax incentives to help subsidize the cost of electric vehicles. Aiming for a population fully reliant on EVs, the U.S. government is offering a fairly large tax credit ranging from $2,500-7,500 for owners of hybrid and electric vehicles. 

Some states and local governments may also offer tax incentives or programs for EV owners, such as California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). This program gives rebate savings directly to owners/lessees of qualifying electric vehicles, making them far more attractive to buy as opposed to a traditional internal combustion engine. If you want to find out more about your local and state government rebates and incentives for electric vehicles, all you have to do is visit their website for more info.

With so many rebates and incentives available, it is no surprise that there has been a major shift to electric vehicles by both consumers and automakers alike. Are you ready to save cash while saving the environment? If so, its time to stop by (Insert Dealer) and make the switch to an electric vehicle today.

More Affordable to Drive

Yet another great reason to switch to electric vehicles — they are far more affordable to drive than your traditional internal combustion engine. The cost of owning an electric vehicle is largely reduced due to it not needing any fuel or the regular maintenance a traditional internal combustion engine requires. In addition to not needing fuel, electric motors have far fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine and do not require any oil changes.

Another reason EVs are more affordable is their use of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking uses the electric motor to slow down the vehicle, which lengthens the lifespan of your brake pads while also charging your EV batteries. This not only saves you from spending on brake pads, but it also keeps you from having to hit the charging station as well — saving you both time and money. 

If you’re looking for a good reason to make the switch to an electric vehicle, all you have to do is look at your wallet. Whether it’s savings at the pump or at the mechanic, making the switch to an electric vehicle puts more money in your pocket while reducing your carbon footprint. Reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and the oil industry, make the switch to an electric vehicle — available here at (Insert Dealer) today. 

Surprisingly Sporty Performance

Do you enjoy sporty performance each time you get behind the wheel? Then an electric vehicle is for you! Unlike regular engines, electric motors provide near-instantaneous torque when you step on the pedal. This allows you to experience the thrill of going 0 to 60 MPH in mere seconds, without putting a huge dent in your wallet.

Electric vehicles also boast incredible handling capabilities thanks to their lower center of gravity and impeccable weight distribution. Most EVs are designed with a battery pack positioned in the center of the vehicle, which increases handling, stability and cornering while also minimizing the potential for rollovers. 

You don’t need a car with four rings or a horse on the front to enjoy a sporty driving experience — all you need is an electric vehicle!

Better Safety

Driving a car down a public road comes with it’s own set of hazards — hazards we typically tend to accept without even a second thought. When you really think about it, hurling down the road in a few tons of metal filled with a flammable liquid probably is not the best idea and is frankly, a bit anxiety-inducing. 

Electric vehicles may not be the perfect answer when it comes to safety. However, they are far safer than a traditional car, truck or SUV that uses an internal combustion engine. Wondering how that is possible? It’s simple — electric vehicles don’t use gas and contain fewer components than traditional vehicles. 

Being that electric vehicles have fewer components than traditional vehicles, manufacturers are able to approach vehicle design in a new manner. This new approach has led to improved crumple zones, stronger body design and improved overall safety. Remember the mention of battery packs in EVs being located in the center of the vehicle? That also provides extra safety as it lowers the EVs center of gravity and removes the use of gas, a very flammable substance.

Are you ready for a phenomenal driving experience but want peace of mind, knowing you and your family are safe? Then you need to make the switch to an electric vehicle today! Electric vehicles aren’t just better for the environment, they’re safer to drive as well.

Great for the Environment

One of the more obvious reasons behind buying an electric vehicle is the impact — or lack thereof — that they have on the environment. While internal combustion engines are gas-powered and require regular oil changes to operate, electric vehicles feature an electric motor that doesn’t need fuel or oil to run. This means not only will you save money on fuel and oil changes, but you’ll also be helping out the environment too. 

The rise of electric vehicles has also sparked a rise in the use of solar panels in homes throughout the United States. Solar panels are great, they allow you to harness the sun’s energy and use it in lieu of traditional fossil fuels that harm the environment. Many owners of EVs are now installing solar panels on their homes in order to reduce their electricity bill — and further reduce their carbon footprint. 

If you want to do your part in helping the environment, buying an EV is a great way to do so. Electric vehicles don’t need oil changes, don’t need gas and can even be charged up using solar power. Are you environmentally conscious? If so, then you need to switch to an electric vehicle as soon as possible.

Are You Ready?

Now that you’ve read through the top five reasons to purchase an electric vehicle, are you ready to make the switch? If so, then (Insert Dealer) is here to help. Here at (Insert Dealer), we don’t just have (Location)’s best selection of new and used vehicles — we have the largest selection of electric vehicles too! If you want to eliminate your gas expense and reduce your carbon footprint then you need to stop by (Insert Dealer) and purchase your first EV today. 

Categories
Great Used Cars

Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It?

iStock/deepblue4you
iStock/deepblue4you

With the COVID-19 Pandemic coming to a close, consumers are once again demanding a large supply of new vehicles. One that cannot yet be fulfilled by the world’s manufacturers due to a massive shortage of semiconductors with no end in sight. 

This shortage has dealerships all over the country scrambling to find a way to put customers behind the wheel of a new vehicle. With the ongoing shortage and rising prices, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy a new vehicle at Thrifty Car Sales, and this blog just may help you decide.

At Thrifty Car Sales, the shortage isn’t stopping them from stocking the Coopersburg, PA area’s best selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Thrifty vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, Thrifty Car Sales has plenty of options for you to choose from. Don’t let the shortage hold you back, stop by and see why Thrifty Car Sales is Coopersburg’s favorite Thrifty dealer today!

Rising Prices, Dwindling Inventory

As the world slowly returns to form after the COVID-19 Pandemic, the global supply chain is struggling to keep up after such a long period of disruption. Back in 2020, with the world at the height of the pandemic, factories all over the world shut down to stop the spread, while subsequently stopping the production of goods. 

During the global shutdown, inventory began to pile up on dealership lots all throughout the United States. With each passing day, the cost of insurance and interest on this sitting inventory totaled in the hundreds of thousands, causing dealership owners a slight panic. This time of uncertainty and panic was not here to stay long, as a bigger problem awaited dealership owners in the near future. 

Fast forward a year to 2021, dealerships throughout the U.S. are struggling to keep up with demand for inventory as manufacturers struggle to produce new vehicles. This struggle is largely due to a semiconductor shortage that was sparked by the worldwide lockdowns that took place during the pandemic. With factories shut down and semiconductors not being made, new vehicles ceased to be produced and vehicle manufacturers found themselves struggling to fulfill dealership orders. 

In response to the growing supply chain issue, dealerships began to turn their focus toward to used vehicle market, encouraging customers to sell their used vehicles or complete trade-ins. With used vehicles more desirable than ever and equipped government-backed stimulus checks, consumers throughout the United States flocked to dealerships to trade in their old vehicles in favor of new ones. 

The rush by dealerships to find ways to supplement the shortage of new vehicles only further exacerbated that shortage, leaving dealerships in a pickle. Now dealerships have droves of customers clamoring to trade-in their vehicles, with no new vehicles to sell those customers, resulting in long waiting lists and disgruntled customers.

With this shortage, you may be wondering if now is the right time to start the search for a vehicle. The answer here at Thrifty Car Sales is a resounding, YES! Despite the supply chain issues and a shortage of new vehicles, there has never been a better time to trade in your old vehicle in favor of purchasing a new one. Keep reading to find out why!

The Time Is Now

If you’re wondering if it’s a smart idea to buy a car in 2022, the answer is YES! Now, you may be doubting that because of what you just read above…but fear not! There truly has never been a better time to buy a new car, truck or SUV — and here are some reasons why.

Interest Rates

One of the biggest reasons you should be buying a car right now is because of the incredibly low-interest rates that are available. Right now, banks are loaning out money at record-setting rates in attempts to reinvigorate the struggling, post-pandemic economy. With rates as low as 0.99% APR available, it’s a no-brainer to buy a new vehicle right now as rates like this aren’t typically available. 

If you want the best interest rates on the widest selection of new and pre-owned Thrifty vehicles, stop by Thrifty Car Sales located in Coopersburg today!

Your Car Is Worth More Than Ever Before

Yeah, you read that right…your old car is worth more than ever before thanks to the shortage of new inventory. Typically, all cars begin depreciating the moment they leave the dealership lot. However, in this whacky post-pandemic economy, some vehicles have actually gained value as they aged. 

As dealerships all over the country make a push to purchase used vehicles and increase trade-ins, the value of used vehicles has increased astronomically. That means there has never been a better time to purchase a new vehicle, as your trade-in is worth more than its ever been. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of buying a new car, you’ll want to act now before the value of your used car plummets back to pre-pandemic prices and you lose out on thousands. 

You can get the best value for your used car, truck or SUV at Thrifty Car Sales located in Coopersburg, PA. At Thrifty Car Sales, they have the Coopersburg area’s best selection of new and pre-owned Thrifty vehicles, so stop by and check out their inventory today!

Customize Your New Vehicle   

Due to the semiconductor shortage, chances are you will be waiting on a new vehicle to be built and shipped to the United States before you buy it. This wait may seem like nothing but a hassle when in reality it is the best thing that could happen. Wondering why it’s the best thing that could happen? Keep reading to find out why!

While it may not seem ideal to buy a car that hasn’t yet been built, there are some advantages to doing so. A car that hasn’t been built yet means you can tailor to fit your exact needs and specifications. That means you can forego features you won’t use and add features you may not have been able to find on a specific trim of that vehicle. With the added flexibility that comes with ordering a new Thrifty vehicle, it truly makes right now better than ever to buy a new vehicle. 

Stop by Thrifty Car Sales located in Coopersburg to place an order for your new Thrifty vehicle today!

Reasons You Should Avoid Buying a Car in 2022

This blog would not be complete without a good counterargument. So, let’s talk about a few reasons why you may want to avoid buying a new car, truck or SUV in 2022. 

Seemingly Endless Waiting Lists

One good reason to avoid purchasing a new or pre-owned vehicle in 2022 is the waiting game. Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle they have to spend months waiting for. However, the reality of this post-pandemic world is filled with long waiting lists for new vehicles of all shapes and sizes.

If you’re considering purchasing a new car, truck or SUV, make sure to inquire about the average waiting time at your dealership of choice. Another thing to keep in mind is delays do happen, especially with the rampant issues in the global supply chain. That being said, if you place an order for a new vehicle, be prepared to be patient. 

Patience is a virtue they say, and if it’s a virtue that escapes you, perhaps its best to look into a pre-owned vehicle instead. If a pre-owned vehicle is something you would consider, Thrifty Car Sales has plenty of them to choose from at their Coopersburg location — stop by today!

Record-High Prices

An unfortunate consequence of the vehicle shortage has been the steep rise in the prices of new vehicles. With incredibly high demand and constrained supply lines, the cost of new vehicles is rising to record highs in a staggeringly short amount of time. Many new vehicles are flying off of dealership lots, sometimes for prices above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). 

Although interest rates are at all-time lows, it still may be wise to refrain from purchasing a new car, truck or SUV in 2022 thanks to the rising cost of new vehicles. If you want to save money and can keep driving your current vehicle, it just may be best to wait out this influx of pricing on new vehicles. 

Fewer Options

Yet another drawback to purchasing a new vehicle during this shortage is the lack of available options. Due to the semiconductor shortage, vehicle manufacturers are opting to only produce certain types and trims of vehicles, leaving less variety to choose from. This is being done in an effort to keep profits where they need to be while dealing with a constrained supply of vehicles and parts. 

During this shortage, you run the chance of walking onto a dealership lot and not being able to find a vehicle to fit your wants or needs. Many vehicles that are being produced right now are coming loaded with options and features, which increases the cost and makes them less appealing to budget-conscious consumers. 

If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle in these times, keep in mind that you may not get exactly what you want in a vehicle. This can be prevented with a little patience, all you have to do is simply wait out this global semiconductor shortage which should be over soon. Getting the vehicle of your dreams is still possible despite the worldwide shortage of vehicles, so don’t lose hope!

The Answer Is

Now that both sides to the argument have been made, the answer to the question “Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It” still remains a resounding yes. This is because the power is still in the hands of the consumer, even with the reduced supply of new and pre-owned vehicles. Consumers are more powerful than ever in the post-pandemic world, and it’s because struggling companies need every dollar they can get. Keep this in mind when shopping for your next vehicle, whether it’s new or pre-owned. 

If you’re still reading and have realized that now is better than ever to buy a new vehicle, then stop by Thrifty Car Sales located in Coopersburg, PA today! At Thrifty Car Sales, they stock the Coopersburg, PA area’s biggest selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Thrifty vehicles and sell them at the best prices. Get the best deal on your next Thrifty vehicle by shopping at Thrifty Car Sales located in Coopersburg today!