E-Z Way Auto Sales Blog - Your Used Car Dealership in Hickory, Morganton, Lincolnton, and Lenoir North Carolina

January 28, 2020January 28, 2020

What is a CPO Vehicle?

If you’ve ever shopped for a used car, you’ve probably heard the term “CPO vehicle.” CPO stands for Certified Pre-Owned, which is a special category of used car that goes through a series of tests and meets certain qualifications to be considered “certified” by the dealership.

Qualifications

Every vehicle brand has its own rules, but in general, to be considered certified, a vehicle has to pass a rigorous inspection to guarantee it’s in good shape, be about six model years old or newer, have driven less than a certain number of miles, and have a clean vehicle history report.

The report means that the car doesn’t have any serious mechanical issues, obvious cosmetic defects, or significant crashes in its history.

Benefits

Buying a CPO vehicle is a little more expensive than buying a regular used car, but it comes with plenty of benefits, in addition to peace of mind. CPO programs usually offer exclusive warranties you wouldn’t get buying an uncertified used car, and you can even qualify for a special low-interest rate on your loan.

Many CPO programs feature other benefits like emergency roadside assistance, travel reimbursement, and other assistance in the event that you’re in an accident or need repairs or maintenance done on your vehicle.

To learn more about the Certified Pre-owned guarantees that each automaker offers and to browse our extensive CPO inventory, pay is a visit at E-Z Way Auto Sales.

December 30, 2019December 30, 2019

How Do Car Loans Work?

Car loans can be more complex than they seem on the surface, which is one reason it’s important to do your homework before car shopping. For instance, a lower monthly payment on your car often means that you’re spending more in the long run, and not all interest rates are designed to be equal. Finding the ideal car loan for you is key to saving money.

There are three basic components to a car loan: “loan amount,” “APR,” and “term.” You want the lowest loan amount possible, which you can either reduce by negotiating or making a larger down payment. The APR, or annual percentage rate, refers to the interest you pay on the principle (the loan amount) and fees. The lower the APR, the more you save. Finally, the loan term refers to how long you’ll pay off a car. Extending a term can significantly reduce your monthly payments, but it will cost you considerably more in interest.

Find the balance that works for you. Ideally, you want the lowest loan amount, rates, and loan terms, which often means choosing a car with a low sticker price. However, there isn’t one-size-fits-all way to get a car. If you want to spend a little more to get a new car or a luxury vehicle, just be sure to consider the added expense of extending a loan term or raising the APR.

If you have any questions about a car loan, swing by EZ way Auto Sales or give us a call. We’re ready and waiting to help.

November 26, 2019November 26, 2019

Benefits of Loan Pre-Approval

Financing can be one of the most nerve-racking parts of purchasing a new vehicle, especially if you have a murky credit history. Read more below to find out how you can avoid the finance headache thanks to loan pre-approval.

Empowerment: Regardless of your credit situation, you are likely to be pre-approved for a vehicle loan at E-Z Way Auto Sales. The feeling of empowerment that comes with owning your own vehicle is second to none, and pre-approval paves the way to vehicle ownership.

Avoid Heartbreak: Have you ever found the vehicle of your dreams only to be told you don’t qualify? With loan pre-approval, you can avoid the heartbreak. When you are pre-approved for an auto loan, you’re told on the spot how much you are permitted to spend. E-Z Way Auto Sales can’t guarantee someone else won’t break your heart, but we promise not to.

Easy as Pie: Getting pre-approved with E-Z Way Auto Sales is easy as pie. If you’d like to browse online before coming in, you can get pre-approved on our website using our extremely simple finance application. Our in-house team of finance consultants will review your application and let you know when it’s time to come pick out your new car. If you prefer, you can also visit our dealership and fill out an application in person.

If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a new car, let E-Z Way Auto Sales help take the stress out of the equation. Stop in today or fill out our online pre-approval application and get driving.

October 9, 2019November 4, 2019

Why is Changing Transmission Fluid Important?

One of the more vital fluids that your vehicle needs is transmission fluid, but it doesn’t seem to get the same attention as your engine oil. Like engine oil, transmission fluid is essential for your vehicle’s health, and like engine oil, it degrades and disappears over time. Is changing transmission fluid important? Absolutely. Here’s why.

As you might guess, transmission fluid serves a similar purpose as engine oil. It helps lubricate the transmission’s gears, enabling smoother movement. It also helps to regulate the temperature of your transmission, preventing overheating. Having dirty transmission fluid or too little transmission fluid can result in significant damage to your vehicle, and transmission failure is one of the more costly problems to have to fix.

Because of this, it’s important to know how to check your transmission fluid. If you’ve driven your car over 100,000 miles, chances are quite good that you’re due for a fluid change. If you notice symptoms like grinding, rpm spiking, and sudden inconsistencies in shifting, do not hesitate to have your transmission fluid inspected and changed if necessary.

If you’re in the market for a high-quality used vehicle, visit EZ Way Auto Sales. We only stock the best vehicles possible to ensure that you can get right on the road without a worry.

September 30, 2019September 30, 2019

Tips and Tricks for Reducing Windshield Glare

With the onset of the fall season, you’re more likely to experience windshield or window glare as you’re driving due to the sun setting and rising earlier. Nevertheless, there are plenty of ways to reduce glare. From treating your windshield to changing your driving habits, there are several ways to minimize this irritating occurrence.

Glare can be both dangerous and annoying. According to The News Wheel, using white vinegar on your windshield after you wash it thoroughly can actually get rid of residue on the surface of the glass. Just be sure to use white vinegar, as it evaporates more quickly and won’t leave a sticky mess like some other varieties.

Keeping your wipers clean is important. Not only should you keep your windshield washer reservoir full, but also periodically wipe down the blades to get rid of dirt and grime. If you haven’t replaced your wipers in over a year, it’s a smart idea to do so to prevent an issue on the road.

You can change your driving route to get rid of unwanted glare. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, so if you can avoid these directions at a particular time of day, you might be able to reduce the need for any anti-glare action. Depending on your commute, the reroute shouldn’t drastically increase your driving time.

Finally, consider tinting your windows if all else fails. To avoid any errors in the tinting process and to make sure you don’t cross the legal threshold for darkness, always to go a professional for window tinting services.

If glare is making your commute less pleasant or less safe, stop by EZ Way Auto Sales and ask our knowledgeable staff for advice or the best place to go for a professional window tinting.

August 27, 2019August 27, 2019

How to Make Your Used Car Last Longer

Whether you plan on selling your used car or keeping it until it dies, there are some practical strategies for extending its life. Here are four tips to make your used car last longer.

Keep it clean

Regularly wash and wax your used car. This will help prevent debris like dust and road salt from accumulating on its undercarriage. It’s also important to wax your vehicle a few times a year to help protect the exterior from small dents and scratches.

Stay on top of routine maintenance

One of the most important ways to prolong your car’s life is to follow its routine maintenance schedule. This can be found in the owner’s manual. Regular upkeep items include oil changes, air-filter replacements, and brake-pad replacements.

Monitor fluids

Regularly examine your vehicle’s fluids to make sure they are clean and replenished. And make sure to check the brake, power steering, coolant, and transmission fluids, as well as the engine oil. This will help your car’s parts run smoothly and prevent damage due to dirty fluids or a lack of fluids.

Be vigilant about unusual noises

Bring your used vehicle to E-Z Way Auto Sales if you notice that it’s been making a weird sound while you’re driving. If you hear a ticking, rattling, or sputtering sound, this could indicate a serious problem with one or more of your car’s systems. Even if it turns out to be a small problem, it’s best to fix it while it’s still small before it turns into a larger problem that’s more expensive to repair.

Call us at E-Z Way Auto Sales if you have any questions about maintaining your used vehicle. We’re here to help you make the most of your pre-owned ride so you can enjoy it for many years to come.

July 30, 2019July 30, 2019

Five Reasons to Buy an SUV

You have probably noticed how SUVs and crossovers are taking over American roads. Not too long ago, the family sedan was the staple of the highway. Now, families want more space and versatility. If you are still hanging onto your sedan, but want to try something new, here are five reasons to buy an SUV.

Cargo space. Most SUVs easily beat the cargo space in the trunk of a sedan. You can get even more space by folding down the back seats for a large, flat loading area.
Room for passengers. Sedans max out at five passengers. If you need more space than that and don’t want a minivan, an SUV is your only choice. It is easy to find a well-equipped model with three rows of seats for six, seven, or even eight passengers.
Capabilities. While some sedans have minimal towing abilities, an SUV is practically guaranteed to be able to tow more.
Better handling. If you ever want to drive off-road or through deep snow, you can get great handling capabilities with a four- or all-wheel drive SUV.
Safety. While sedans can be equipped with advanced safety features, they will still always lose in a head-on collision with a larger vehicle. Get the advanced features and safer size when you choose an SUV.

Stop by E-Z Way Auto Sales to see our expansive collection of used SUVs. You’re sure to find your dream ride!

June 27, 2019June 27, 2019

Why There Has Never Been a Better Time to Buy a Pickup Truck

Each year, smaller vehicles become less popular while more versatile vehicles like pickup trucks enjoy a growing popularity, and for good reason. Pickup trucks offer greater flexibility and performance and generally support a greater diversity of lifestyles. Here are some of the reasons why there has never been a better time to buy a pickup than right now.

They open up a world of possibilities

Whether you depend on your vehicle for work, play, or a bit of both, a pickup truck ensures you’re always prepared. Pickups are the perfect companion for drivers who enjoy activities such as biking, boating, camping, hunting, and more.

They are surprisingly spacious

If you’ve never driven a modern pickup, you might assume that they feature stuffy interiors with barely enough room for you and one passenger. You might be surprised to learn, however, that many of today’s pickups are surprisingly spacious inside, often with four-door cab configurations and plenty of room for everyone to stretch out.

Pickups are more efficient than ever

Pickups have a reputation for being inefficient gas guzzlers, but this isn’t really true anymore. While even a modern pickup won’t achieve the kind of fuel economy of a compact car, today’s pickups are more efficient than ever. And when you consider the fact that you can do more in one trip in your pickup than you could with true trips in a small car, pickups often let you get more done with less gasoline.

Ready to buy a pickup of your own? Stop by E-Z Way Auto Sales to see our lineup and take a truck out for a test drive.

May 30, 2019May 30, 2019

The Best Used Cars for Recent Grads

Once you finish high school or college, getting a car is a great way to celebrate your success. It also serves a purpose when you get a job and need a commuter vehicle. There are a number of great used cars for recent grads, whether you’re looking for a status symbol or something that’s simply pragmatic.

Honda Civic

According to CarFax, one of the top cars is a Honda Civic, particularly the 2016 model year. This sedan is truly practical, and it lasts. The Civic comes with a sensible design and affordable price tag, and the 2016 model year has a sharper look and added performance to give you more bang for your buck.

BMW 3 Series

For those taking a more luxurious route, consider the 2012 to 2016 BMW 3 Series. While the 3 Series costs a little more than other sedans, it will show others that you’re successful thanks to the air of refinement that surrounds this vehicle. The 3 Series also has superb handling, a sleek exterior, and a name you can trust.

Toyota Prius

Eco-conscious graduates should get behind the wheel of the 2016 Toyota Prius. This model has a four-door hatchback look, so it looks like your average sedan. However, under the hood is a truly innovative hybrid powertrain, which has 56 highway mpg.* You will not only reduce your carbon footprint in the Prius, but you’ll save at the pump in doing so.

Subaru Outback

Want to explore the outdoors now that you’re finished with school? Start your adventure in a Subaru Outback. The 2015 to 2016 model years give you the best value, offering high ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and a reliable design that you can trust.

Browse these and other models in our inventory at E-Z Way Auto Sales in Hickory, NC.

*EPA-estimated fuel economy. Actual mileage may vary. Use for comparison only.

April 29, 2019April 29, 2019

Are hybrid cars reliable?

Since their advent in the auto industry, hybrid cars have been met with both praise and skepticism. Although hybrid and electric cars have been recognized as the vehicles of the future, some Americans still require some convincing. You may wonder: are hybrid cars reliable? We’re here to say that yes, they are — especially Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles. The following are a few reasons why we think hybrid vehicles are reliable and which ones we think you should particularly consider.

Repair frequencies are the same or lower as regular cars. Data has shown that hybrid vehicles are repaired at a rate that is the same of lower than regular gas-powered vehicles, showing that hybrid systems don’t require additional repairs or maintenance. Generally speaking, hybrid vehicles experience fewer engine or transmission issues and fewer general vehicle problems. This is due, in part, to hybrid vehicles’ proven and dependable gas-powered platform.
Not all hybrids are the same: While some early hybrids had minor hybrid-/battery-related issues, many have not, including Toyota and Lexus models. Toyota and Lexus models are considered the most reliable hybrids, with various models offering far greater reliability — as much as 73% more — than the average car.
Hybrid technology continues to make huge strides: Automakers are continually advancing and innovating their hybrid technology, making it better and better each year. At this point, you definitely don’t have to worry about reliability.

So there you have it: hybrid cars are reliable. So next time you’re in the market for a used vehicle, don’t avoid putting a hybrid on your shortlist for fear of expensive repairs and maintenance. Better yet, get started at E-Z Way Auto Sales to find the best used hybrid vehicles around!