These tips can help you determine whether your vehicle has major engine problems or just a loose gas cap.   We’ve all been there before. You’re driving along when you notice a yellow light out of the corner of your eye. A quick glance at the dash confirms your fear. It’s the check engine light. If you’re like most car owners, you’re not sure if you should continue to panic or not, and you have little idea what that light is trying to tell you or how you should react. The often misunderstood check engine light or “service engine soon” message can mean many different things. It could be a misfiring engine, a broken oxygen sensor or simply a loose gas cap.   When you see the check engine light, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to pull the car over to the side of the road and call a tow truck. It does mean you should get the car checked out as soon as possible. If you ignore the warning, you could end up causing further damage. It could also be a sign that you’re getting poor fuel economy and emitting high levels of pollutants.   In any case, if the check engine light is on in your car, it’s time to schedule a service appointment. At our service center, we have factory-trained technicians who can easily check and diagnose what’s behind your check engine light message, at a cost that is nearly always lower than a private garage.   What to do when your check engine light comes on:   While it’s true that extreme problems like low oil pressure or an overheating engine will trigger your check engine light to come on, your dashboard has other lights and gauges to warn you of serious problems, and probably soon. A good rule of thumb is to always read your owner’s manual and learn about the different reasons that would trigger the check engine light to come on. It should also give you a tour of the other gauge and warning indicators on your dashboard. If your check engine light is on, the first thing to do is look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so. On some cars, a yellow “check engine” means investigate the problem, while a red “check engine” means stop right now.   Next, try tightening your gas cap. This often solves the problem. Keep in mind that it may take several trips before the light resets. Some vehicles have a separate indicator that warns of a loose gas cap before the condition sets off the “check engine” light. Reduce your speed and, if possible, the weight you’re carrying. If the “check engine” light is blinking or you notice any serious performance problems, such as a loss of power, reduce your speed and try to reduce the load on the engine. For example, it would be a good idea to stop towing a trailer. Have the car checked as soon as possible to prevent expensive damage. Even if you don’t notice an extreme problem, you should definitely still have the check engine code read and the problem fixed. If you want to diagnose the malfunction yourself, you can buy a scan tool at most auto parts stores. Prices range from about $40 to several hundred, depending on the model and the features. These tools will give you instructions on how to decipher the engine codes. If you don’t have to mechanical skills already to diagnose and fix the problem, it’s a more cost-effective decision to go directly to a service center.    

  Here at Monaco Motorcars in Toronto, ON, we’ve got a vast selection of the best used cars under $12K. If you are on a tight budget and need a new-to-you set of wheels, we’ve got plenty of used cars to choose from.   We asked our team of auto experts about their top 5 favorite used cars for under $12, and they helped us come up with this handy shopping list. So of these models might surprise you.   2018 Chevrolet Cruze Just because a car is pre-owned, that doesn’t mean that it has to be old. You can find a newer model used car for under $12K easily. Take the 2018 Chevrolet Cruze, for example. This sporty ride can be purchased for under $12K if you stick with a lower trim level.   The LS model rolls on 15-inch steel wheels and has carpeted floors and a front center armrest for comfort. The driver’s seat and tilt-and-telescoping starring column can both be adjusted to suit your height. This model also comes with several advanced tech features such as the MyLink infotainment system that is displayed don a 7-inch touchscreen and a rearview camera. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling, and you can stream your music through the 6-speaker via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. A USB port is also provided for charging your mobile device. This ride even has its own 4G LTE Wifi hotspot to keep you connected everywhere you go.   2017 Kia Rio A black 2017 Kia Rio is driving with a blurred background in Toronto, ON.   Another not-so-old used car under $12K is the 2017 Kia Rio. This model can be found as a sedan or as a hatchback.   If you opt for the entry-level LX version, it will ride on 15-inch steel wheels and have power-adjustable heated side mirrors. A trip computer is provided to help calculate mileage, and you can listen to music via the CD player, satellite radio, or by hooking up your smartphone with the auxiliary jack. The four-speaker stereo is adequate for entertaining you during your daily commute. The driver’s seat is height-adjustable, but the steering column is tilt-only.   2016 Nissan Versa Ranked in the top 20 subcompact cars by U.S. News & World Report, the 2016 Nissan Versa is a solid pick for a used car under $12K. Even though it’s super petite, this model has an adult-friendly back seat and plenty of space. You can also go for a mid-level trim without exceeding your budget.   Let’s take a look at the SV version. You will get remote keyless entry with power locks and windows on this model. It also comes with upgraded cloth upholstery and interior accents. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling, and you can easily control the audio settings by utilizing the buttons located on the steering wheel. For music, you can also plug-in your smartphone via the auxiliary jack and listen to your favorite songs through the 4-speaker stereo system.   2016 Hyundai Elantra You will be surprised how many cool features you can get with the 2016 Hyundai Elantra. Even on lower trims like the SE, it still has plenty to offer to keep you satisfied. Standard features on the base SE model include 15-inch steel wheels, power locks and windows, air conditioning, and a trip computer. The tilt-and-telescoping steering column can be adjusted to suit your height as well as the driver’s seat. The six-speaker stereo system operates with a CD player and satellite radio for the best music listening experience that $12K can buy. If you need to charge your phone on the way to work, you can easily hook it up via the USB port.   2015 Ford Fiesta A red 2015 Ford Fiesta is driving on a tree-lined street.   If you want a higher trim level on your used car, you’ll have to go back a little bit more. The 2015 Ford Fiesta is a great option that isn’t too old. Ranked in the top ten subcompact cars by U.S. News & World Report, you can get this petite sedan in a top-tier trim for under $12K.   The Titanium version features 16-inch wheels, a black grille, and chrome exterior accents. The cabin boasts heated, leather seats for comfort during the winter months, and keyless ignition/entry makes it easy to get going in the mornings. A rearview camera plus parking sensors help with backing out of tight or crowded spaces without hitting anything. It also comes with the MyFord Touch infotainment interface displayed on a 6.5-inch touchscreen. You can even listen to HD radio through the upgraded 8-speaker Sony stereo system.   Visit Monaco Motorcars To find the perfect ride for under $12K, give us a call or head over to Monaco Motorcars in Toronto, ON today for a test drive. We value all of our customers, including those who may not have a large budget, so we keep a selection of used cars under $12K in our inventory.  

  No matter whether you drive primarily in the city or spend time off-roading on one of our many desert trails, problems can happen when you least expect them. No matter how experienced of a driver you are, being stuck with a dead vehicle on a road can be very stressful. That is why we recommend that every driver, no matter where they drive, should carry these 5 things with them in case of an emergency. Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench. Flat tires top the list of frustrating car troubles. And it might get even worse when you realize that you do have a spare tire but lack a jack or the lug wrench. Even if you have roadside assistance, it’s always good to have these items on hand in case your phone is out of service, or they can’t come for an extended period of time. Jumper cables. A dead battery is one of the most common malfunctions you might face. Especially because it usually happens in the morning, when you’re trying to get to work. Jumpstarting a car is quite an easy process, as long as you have a set of jumper cables and someone willing to give you a jump.  WD-40. There are so many uses for WD-40 in everyday life that discussing them might result in a separate book. Of course, this is an important thing to have in a car. From loosening lug nuts and lubricating a creaky door to having to switch a license plate, WD-40 has deserved its place in your trunk.  Windshield wiper fluid. Low visibility due to rain, snow, or ice are the main reasons for severe and even fatal car crashes in the winter. That is why it is very important to make sure that you have extra windshield wiper fluid in your car. This product helps to keep your windshield clean and clear so that you can see the road. First aid kit. Our last item is more about your safety than your car’s: a first aid kit. Inexpensive and easy to store. Accidents happen, and sometimes they might happen on a lonely road. A first aid kit will help take care of any minor scrapes or cuts, and can help keep a more serious injury clean and covered until you can get to help. Whether you only drive from home to work or planning a road trip with your family, keeping essentials close at hand can be the difference between a smooth trip and a frustrating one. Follow our advice and add these 5 items to your car, truck, or SUV today!  

  Parents don’t want to admit it, but most teen drivers stand a greater risk of crashing than anyone else on the road, regardless of whether the car is new or used, expensive or slovenly. It may sound like I’m exaggerating, but these kinds of accidents occur all the time; what’s scarier is that IIHS studies prove that teenagers are more likely than any other drivers to have the least safe form of transportation. Luckily, this can be easily offset by following what’s been outlined in a new IIHS study, where analysts re-evaluated safe, affordable used vehicle options for teens, and in the process grew the list by more than 50%, leaving the price and safety criteria alone. “We found in our survey last year that 14% of teenagers are driving pickups, so we’re happy to be able to recommend a few models,” McCartt says. In most cases, the ever popular Ford F-150 crew cab will run around $16,800 for a 2011 model, whereas a 2007 Toyota Tundra crew cab only costs $12,200, and a 2006 Honda Ridgeline can be easily had for just $7,700. A separate IIHS study also shows that teenagers killed in crashes are far more likely than adults to be driving older, smaller cars, and of all the fatally injured 15- to 17-year-old drivers in 2008–2012, 29% of them were in small cars; with 82% of these vehicles being over 6 years old. “It’s understandable that many parents don’t trust their children with an expensive new vehicle, so they give them an old car or buy the cheapest new car they can find,” McCartt said. “What they probably don’t realize is that they are compromising their teenagers’ safety in the process.” Here are IIHS’s recommended used cars for teens. 1. Toyota Tundra (2007+) While the rough and tumble TRD-PRO version of the Tundra seen here may be a bit out of most parent’s price range, used crew cab models dating all the way back to 2007 have the stability control teens need, along with solid crash ratings across the board. Everything from small overlap crashes and side impact scores, to head restraints, seat construction, and roof fortitude scored well during testing, and at $12,200 that’s a lot of truck for the money, especially if you plan on them moving themselves out of the house once college starts. 2. Jeep Cherokee (2014+) This is a vehicle that’s known for its practicality, off-road versatility, and slick interior touches, especially when in Trailhawk trim. But it gets high marks for being an extremely safe used vehicle for young drivers. While models prior to 2014 are not recommended, its respectable scores in every other field, accompanied by an all-wheel drive system that can help your kid make it home in a snowstorm, help make the $17,500 asking price far more digestible. 3. Kia Sorento (2011+) At $12,300, paying over 10 grand for an older Kia may sound like a bad deal, but when you realize that they come loaded with all kinds of safety and tech, and are surprisingly well made, you’ll see why the Sorento ended up on IIHS’s list. Equipped with either two or three rows, this is a great used option if you have younger kids and need the eldest to go pick them and the neighbor’s kids up at soccer practice. 4. Mazda CX-5 (2013+) When we reviewed the CX-5, I was blown away by how well made it was in almost every measurable way. While the new CX-9 may hold my heart, for $14,800 you can’t go wrong with this little SUV if size constraints are an issue. Even though it did receive a “marginal” small overlap score for the 2013 model year, from 2014 on it gets perfect scores, a testament to Mazda’s fortitude and sensational engineering agility. 5. Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (2011+) Since it’s so small, you would think that the Outlander Sport wouldn’t fair too well in crash tests when compared to some of the larger SUVs/Vans/Trucks, but it does a great job of holding its own with good scores across the board and an overlap rating of “acceptable.” This also is a very easy car to drive and park due to its smaller stance and rally inspired “All-Wheel Control” (AWC) settings for additional traction. Plus, at $9,300, it’s a relatively affordable option for new drivers. 6. Honda Accord (2012+) People have asked why I’ve been a dedicated Accord man for so long, and safety is one of the many reasons I give them. Naturally, when buying any of the cars listed here always check for recalls before buying, and make sure that if you go with an Accord that the airbags aren’t a part of the whole Takata fiasco. While both the sedan and coupe version of the venerated vehicle received solid scores, the four-door version from 2013 onward is a top recommendation since it gets a perfect score in every category, including small overlap. 7. Chevrolet Malibu (2010+) For years the Malibu has been a solid seller for GM, and part of its appeal is its affordability to safety score ratio. While the latest, turbocharged generation is delightful, the $8,200 starting price for used models from 2010 onward remains a strong selling point for cash-strapped parents. On a side note, if small overlap accidents are a concern, opting for a 2014 model year or newer is highly recommended, since that’s when GM straightened out all the issues with passenger side angular impacts. 8. Volvo XC90 (2005+) This thing didn’t win the award for M.A.M.A. family vehicle of the year for nothing, and even though new ones cost considerable sums when compared to almost everything else on this list, older models remain an excellent option for first time drivers. Volvo has long been known for safety, and in the XC90’s case this earns it a spot as the oldest chassis on this cheat sheet with options that go all the way back to 2005. With a $4,600 starting price, and an untainted track record for over a decade, the Swedish sensation remains the king of the safety roost to this day. 9. Ford Explorer (2011+) There’s a lot about the Explorer that hits home with parents, part of it being its prolonged reputation as being one of the core SUVs for the average American family. So when the kids start asking for car keys, don’t hesitate to hand over that 5-year-old Explorer, because while you may have payed full price for it back in 2011, it’s easily going to pay for itself by giving you peace of mind when your kid wants to go out on a Friday night. 10. Subaru Forester (2009+) Subarus are some of the more sought after commodities in the automotive market today, and with the Forester offering sensational IIHS safety scores that date all the way back to 1999, you can see why parents love these things. Coupled with Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a balanced footprint, and a non-turbo engine option, the Forester gets high marks for overall safety, especially after 2013, when 2014 models and up received perfect scores in every category.  

You find an ad for a used car that looks great and begin daydreaming about taking it for a spin. But first, remember: Every used car has a history.   “New cars are all exactly alike, since they come directly from the factory,” says Mark Holthoff, an editor for online used-car shopping community Klipnik. “But one used car can be vastly different from another.” For example, one used truck might have been in an accident while another was untouched. One used SUV might have been serviced regularly while another was neglected. Doing business with a reputable used car dealer can be the difference between finding a quality used vehicle and one that needs repairs. Here are the top 5 questions you should ask any dealer before buying one of their vehicles:   How was the car maintained? Find out if it was serviced at a dealership, by an independent mechanic or a “shade tree” mechanic — one not affiliated with a garage — says Josh Sadlier, senior manager of content strategy at Edmunds.com. Also ask if the maintenance is up-to-date. Some sellers will even suggest you speak to the mechanic who worked on the car.   Are service records available? Hopefully, the answer to this question is, “Yes. All the records are in a folder and you’re welcome to look it over.” This tells you the seller probably has serviced the car regularly.   Has it been in any accidents? In some cases, accidents are reported on a vehicle history report — but don’t assume these reports catch everything. If the car was in an accident, find out how it was damaged and how it was fixed.   What features don’t work the way they’re supposed to? Older used cars nearly always have something wrong with them. It might not be a deal breaker — for example, if it’s a malfunctioning CD player. But other defects can come as annoying surprises, such as weak air conditioning, blown speakers or missing pixels in displays.   Is there any reason you wouldn’t drive the car coast-to-coast tomorrow? This is a fun question and sometimes throws the seller off balance. But if the answer is a resounding “No, there’s nothing wrong with the car,” that’s a nice vote of confidence. What is the ownership history? If the seller doesn’t really have many details about the car, that’s a warning sign. Every dealer should be able to tell you how many owners a vehicle has had. If they can’t, move on. Can I see an inspection report? Any reputable dealer is going to conduct an inspection on every vehicle prior to selling it. Beware of dealers that simply use the “inspection” from the auction house, as these are very basic and do not cover many aspects of a vehicle’s condition beyond cosmetic ones. Has the vehicle been in any accidents? Much like ownership history, a dealer should be able to tell you if a vehicle has been in an accident. Minor accidents certainly shouldn’t be a deal breaking so long as they were properly repaired. But major accidents or poor repairs can leave you having to make repairs yourself. Does the vehicle have a clean title? No dealership that cares about their reputation and vehicle quality will sell cars with salvage or restored titles. It’s simply too risky. Make sure to ask if the vehicle has a clean title, and if it doesn’t, it is probably best to walk away and try somewhere else.  

They light up your dashboard and, every now and then, they might even ding a few times. When it happens, you give it a quick glance and make a mental note to check into it when you’ve got a few spare moments and extra dollars. But on you drive, for miles and miles and days and days and maybe even weeks and weeks without ever giving that persistently illuminating button another thought. And then, you end up in the mechanic’s shop, feigning surprise and swearing that the light JUST came on yesterday.   Well, your mechanic ain’t buyin’ it. But one thing’s for sure – you’re paying for it. To help you dodge such a scenario, here’s a few tips on warning lights you shouldn’t ignore.   Low Tire Pressure: By the time most tire pressure monitoring systems send out the alert, your tires likely have been running low for a while. In fact, that warning ping typically happens once your tire pressure dips at least 25 percent below the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation – and well below the pressure required for safe driving. Lot tire pressure boosts the risk of a tire blowout, which easily can cause an accident. It also makes it tougher to steer your car and brake quickly, and drags down your fuel efficiency. Low Battery: Batteries typically last for four to five years, depending upon how much you drive and your local climate. Live in a coastal area? Got a long daily commute to and from work? Your battery switch may happen in closer to three years. In any case, once your low battery light illuminates, it’s highly recommended that you get yourself a new one within the next few days, or you may find yourself paying a towing fee. Oil Pressure: Your car’s engine is its heart – literally. So it’s critical that all of its internal components are properly cooled, lubricated and working smoothly. And that only happens when your engine’s oil pressure is adequate. If you’re due an oil change, get one -pronto. Can’t get to it right away? Use the dipstick to top off your oil. While too little oil can fry your engine, using too much oil can cause damage as well. Temperature: A temperature warning light typically means your car has a coolant leak, a bad water pump or a faulty thermostat. Any of those can lead to your engine overheating. And that can wreak all sorts of havoc, including warped metal components and blown gaskets. Now, you’re looking at thousands of dollars in engine repair or replacement costs. If your temp warning light comes on, pull over immediately and arrange for a tow to the nearest mechanic’s shop. Brake Fluid: This one perhaps trumps all others vehicle warning lights when it comes to safety. Your brake fluid warning light can be an indication that you’ve got a leak or some other problem that will keep you from being able to stop your vehicle quickly – or at all. Clearly, this could have serious implications. When this light turns on, head to your mechanic’s shop immediately. Not sure what these warning lights look like? No shame. A recent survey shows that some 43 percent of vehicle owners nationwide haven’t a clue what the low tire pressure warning light is. If that’s the case, grab your auto owner’s manual and study up.  

One of the most-loved parts of the holiday season is driving around to see the changing leaves, fresh snow up in the mountains, and to visit loved ones for holiday get-togethers. And while this holiday season is proving to be much different than years previous, some of us are still choosing to have socially-distanced get-togethers with loved ones both local and out of town. No matter how you are celebrating the holidays this year, you’re sure to see more traffic on the roads than usual. In the spirit of the season, we’ve put together this list of seven driving tips to help you stay safe on the road no matter where you holiday travels take you.   Plan Ahead Before you start your trip, make sure your vehicle is in good shape for travel, as this is especially important if you hit any inclement weather. This is as easy as making sure you’re up-to-date on your regular maintenance tasks, which we can check for you at our Service Center! Make sure to check the forecast before you leave your home so you’re prepared for the weather no matter where you are going. It is also helpful to map the route to your destination in advance, and to be prepared for traffic delays. If possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic.   Stay Alert Between work, school, extra-curricular activities, holiday shopping, and anything else you and your family may have on your plate, it’s easy to be a little worn out during the holidays. Make sure you’re always well-rested before taking any extra long drives, so that you’re always aware of what’s going on around you on the road.   Watch Your Speed Give yourself plenty of time and distance to react to the traffic around you. Speeding only increases your chances of becoming involved in an accident, especially when icy or wet roads are a concern.   Drive Defensively Increased holiday traffic can be frustrating, but you don’t have to let other drivers bother you. Allow aggressive or speeding drivers to go around you rather than speeding up to match them on the road.   Don’t Drive Impaired If you plan to drink, don’t plan to drive. Make sure you have a designated driver before any holiday party where you plan to drink alcohol, have an idea of what you should leave for home, and stick to the plan.   Avoid Distractions It’s never a good idea to use your cell phone while you’re driving, but this is especially true during the holiday season. With all of the extra difficulties that holiday driving can add, the added distraction of answering your phone or checking a message can be very risky. Keep your phone down and your eyes on the road to avoid any accidents.   Be Prepared for an Emergency You never know when you might have an accident or a breakdown, and if you’re traveling somewhere that has ice or snow, this can be an even more difficult situation to deal with. Make sure you have an emergency kit in your vehicle, as well as your cell phone, a charger, and contact information for a roadside assistance company.  

No matter how great your car is, it's not going anywhere without quality tires. And with both new and used cars, tires are among the most expensive components to replace. For that reason, you are going to want to learn some helpful strategies for learning how to get as many miles as possible from your tires.   During the warmest and coldest months of this year, it is essential that you keep a close watch on your tire pressure. You can check your owner's manual to understand how much your tires' PSI value should be at any given moment. Depending on where you get air on your tires, then there could be an estimate you can use to measure your pressure before you add more atmosphere. It is ideal to test your tire pressure at least once a month.   Shop Your Tires the Right Way   Should you switch to winter tires because you live in an area where it snows, take care how you keep your regular tires. Specifically, you want to protect your tires from the sun's UV rays while they're in storage. You also ought to know that ozone may eat away at your tires. Finally, storing your tires in a location where the temperature stays constant better ensures that the tire's sidewall and rubber are protected from harm.   Rotate & balance Your Tires   Take a glance at your vehicle's manual to see how many times you should have your tires rotated. Whether you have front- or rear-wheel drive decides which tires make more wear, and then you would like all four of your tires to wear equally, which is where rotating stems in.   On a related note, it's also advisable to be sure the mechanic checks to find out if your tires will need to be balanced when they are being rotated. Poorly-balanced tires lead to uneven wear and harmful vibration.  

Buying a car for your teen? If your teenager reaches driving age and wants a vehicle, you will likely have many decisions to make. Not only are you going to need to compromise with your teen in regards to what you may cover and what make and model will be okay, you will also need to consider that used cars will be the safest for him or her to drive. If you're prepared to purchase your teen a car, we are here to assist with a few tips which may make the processes easier. Believe Simplicity While your adolescent probably has a make and version already in mind, you might want to make some boundaries clear before you start browsing used cars together. Not only will price be a factor, but it can be costly to insure teen drivers as well. Their age and inexperience make them a considerable liability to a lot of insurance providers, so choosing a no-frills vehicle may help you to save money. Do Your Homework While we could help you choose a safe used car for your teen, it might also help if you perform some research on your own before you visit our lot. Take some time to discover which used cars have the best safety evaluations, which ones have added security equipment which may keep your child safer and which are the least expensive to operate. The more you know before you begin to check at individual automobiles, the easier it may be to arrive at a choice. Even if you'll be doing a lot of the legwork and setting up the cash for your teen's car, you might still wish to prepare her or him for that which will probably be involved with evaluation driving vehicles. Teach them what to look and listen to and assist them prepare a list of questions to ask our sales partner for during and after a test drive. Buying your teenager his or her first used car does not have to be a hassle. Compromise, research and careful preparation can ensure a more enjoyable purchasing experience for you both. Visit us at Monaco Motorcars and we will be happy to assist!

How do you know if your engine oil is low?   Many recent cars consume oil between oil changes and most don't have a warning light to warn you if the oil level is low.   Even in many cars with an oil monitor, you will not see a warning if the oil level becomes lower. Driving low on oil can cause engine problems. This means, check the engine oil level with the dipstick regularly.   How to check the oil level on a dipstick: Warm up the engine. Park your vehicle on a level spot. Set the parking brake. Make sure the transmission is in Park.   Turn off the engine. Wait for a minute or two to let engine oil flow into the oil pan. Find the engine oil dipstick, usually it has a bright handle saying "Engine Oil". Careful, the engine is hot. Check for precautions, read the instructions and find the location of the oil dipstick in the Maintenance section of the owner's manual for your vehicle.   The oil level should be between the "Low" and "Full" marks. We recommend keeping it close to the "Full" mark. If the level is low, time for a top-up!

Getting Ready for Shopping a Car? It’s that time again – time to look at buying another car. If you are like most auto buyers, the start of the shopping process has you split and undecided between different cars. From used SUVs to used trucks and used vans, there are tons of options. Maybe you want a Honda Civic, but it doesn’t come in your favorite color. What about BMWs? Those are supposed to be pretty good aren’t they? The car shopping process can take a lot of time. It’s an important decision after all. Perhaps next to a house, the car is your next biggest purchase. Recently SUVs, and especially used SUVs, have been on the rise. SUV stands for Sports Utility Vehicle. There are a plethora of reasons why SUVs are becoming so popular, and hopefully, we can help you narrow down the scope of your car search by the end of this article. New or used, SUVs are hot right now. Benefits of Owning an SUV Comfortable Space for Multiple People: Whether you have a large family, are the leader of a scout troop, or find yourself frequently road tripping with friends, SUVs are great for getting multiple people (and some gear) from one place to another. Rather than taking multiple trips or multiple vehicles, which just complicates logistics, having a used SUV is a clear winner for shuffling multiple people from Point A to Point B. Great Gas Mileage: Of all the myths you hear about Sports Utility Vehicles, this is probably the biggest: they don’t get good gas mileage. While that may have been true 10 or 20 years ago (when SUVs were huge gas hogs), today there are a plethora of SUVs that get over 30 miles to the gallon on the highway, and 23-27 miles to the gallon around the city. Best of all, even with this good gas mileage SUVs still maintain all of their benefits and capacity. Towing Capabilities: Whether it’s a horse trailer, boat, motorcycles, or an RV, SUVs are great towing vehicles. Most SUVs come with towing capability built in, and can even have built in trailer sway control (again, making an SUV one of the safest choices of car to purchase). Even if you aren’t planning on towing for hobbies right now, you might just need to help someone move furniture on a trailer. SUVs are great for offering this kind of help. Spacious Enough for Pets: If you don’t have kids or people to transport around but you have pets, an SUV can be a great choice (especially used SUVs so it isn’t a bother to get pet hair inside). The extra space an SUV offers gives ample room for dog kennels and cat kennels. There will even be room for food, toys, and other gear if you are going on a road trip and bringing the dogs with you. Better in Hazardous Road Conditions: Whether it’s flooding, slick roads from rain, or any icy snowstorm, SUVs are rated as top quality vehicles to handle the road conditions excellently. Think of a flood, for example, most cars can not handle more than 20 inches of water. However an SUV can be outfitted to drive through up to 36 inches (yes, three feet!) of water! With how much adverse whether there is, having an SUV helps give reliable transportation in a variety of road conditions. Top Rated Safety: SUVs are without a doubt one of the safest types of vehicle on the road – even used SUVs. The most obvious reason is the size. It’s really just a physics equation. If a 2,000 lb car collides with your 6,000 lb SUV, the SUV will be the much safer place to be. There is zero room for doubt here. Additionally, having a higher vantage point allows the driver to see the road more clearly, allowing for safer driving overall. So no matter your reason for looking for a new car, start with SUVs. In addition to being one of the safest vehicles on the road, an SUV can help you get out and explore the world with great off-road capabilities, freedom to bring extra passengers or pets, and room for gear and luggage.

For a quality premium vehicle, an Audi is a fantastic choice of vehicle. Buying preloved will save you some money and give you a car that will give you plenty of years of service. Getting the right one for you is easy when you know how to pick a great used Audi in the Toronto area. Monaco Motorcars has a range of quality pre-owned Audi. You just need to pick the one that suits you best.   Test Drive All Features Packed with premium features, a Used Audi is a great way to get into these quality vehicles without the new car price tag. A pre-owned vehicle has had a previous owner and has been subject to some wear from use but with a keen eye, you can get an Audi in near new condition. When inspecting your prospective car, take advantage of a test drive to ensure all the functions work as expected. Test the air conditioning and safety features, such as reverse cameras and power seat functions. Ask the salesperson if the vehicle has the tech features that you are expecting. A color screen in the dashboard does not indicate the availability of programs such as navigation. Watch For Fluids And Smoke Watch carefully as the vehicle is started and moved from its place in the lot. A small amount of water vapor is normal at startup, especially if the ambient temperature is cool. The used Audi should not have blue or black smoke from the exhaust or leave any fluid leaks from underneath. If the vehicle has recently been driven by the air conditioning operating, a small amount of water may be present on the ground and will continue to leak as the vehicle runs.   Shop at a Reliable Dealer For Your Used Audi For hassle-free purchasing of a used Audi, ensure your dealership is reliable and has a great track record. Our vehicles are carefully selected to provide a range of models, trims, and body styles to suit your wants and needs. 

A Beginner’s Guide to Toyota Corolla Maintenance   The exciting part of buying a car is always the purchase. The less exciting but no less important aspect is car maintenance.   It’s extremely important to keep your car in good working order to ensure that you’re able to get where you need to go at any time.   A few of the most common issues to keep an eye out for can be easily handled with the right knowledge.   Changing a Tire   Surprisingly, how to change a tire is one of the most frequently asked questions by car owners. The good news is that changing a tire on your Toyota Corolla is actually very simple.   If you find yourself with a flat tire, first you’ll need to pull over. Make sure your Corolla is in a safe location before beginning any work.   Next, remove the hubcap on the wheel. This will give you access to the tire and allow you to loosen the lug nuts.   Once this is done, jack your car up. It’s important to get your car up to about 6 inches high. Be sure not to place the jack in a position that could cause damage to your vehicle.   Now you’re ready to remove the tire. Take the lug nuts off (but keep them handy!) and pull the tire straight towards you.   Finally, place the new tire on the car. Push the tire straight on, and fasten your lug nuts to secure it in place.   Changing the Oil   Before you decide to change the oil yourself, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You will need:   • An Oil Collection Pan   • 4 Quarts of Oil   • A Funnel   • An Oil Filter   • Plenty of Rags   Begin by sliding the oil pan under the drain plug. The drain plug is located below the engine.   Next, use a wrench to remove the drain plug. The oil will drain into the oil pan. Once the drainage is finished, you need to remove the oil filter.   Use your rag to wipe away the oil from the filter. Now take a clean rag, add some oil to it, and wipe the edge of the new filter.   You can now install the new filter and replace the drain plug. Next, open the oil tank and pour in the new oil.   Give the car a moment before using the dipstick to make sure you have enough oil inside.   Voila! Just like that, you’ve changed the oil. Make sure to close the oil tank again once you are finished.   Cleaning Your Vehicle   To ensure you enjoy your car every time you step into it, always have cleaning supplies on hand. We like to store these in the trunk just in case anything happens, such as a spill, or while driving a bunch of bugs stick to the car. Another option is always finding local car detailers who will often have monthly subscription services so that you can take it to them to have it cleaned as often as you’d like.   Replacing Wiper Fluid   The wiper fluid level is another part of your vehicle that needs to be continuously checked. Windshield wiper fluid isn’t crucial, but not filling it can certainly lead to a messy car!   To refill the wiper fluid, you don’t need to do a whole lot. First, remove the front bumper so that you can access the wiper fluid pump.   Next, remove the wiper fluid pump from the reservoir. Discard the reservoir, open a new one, and insert the pump into the new reservoir.   Put all the parts back into place and close the bumper again.   While car maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running, it’s best to get a healthy vehicle in the first place. Give us a call today at Monaco Motorcars and we will be happy to discuss your options!  

Small Car, Big Benefits?   In the market for a pre-owned car? A smaller vehicle might be perfect for your needs, no matter how tall you are. There are several benefits to have with a compact car, some of which might not have occurred to you before now. Ready to learn?   Sleek Appeal   What small cars lack in size they can make up for in exterior and interior appearance. Before passing up on smaller car models when at the dealership, take a peek inside a smaller car. You might be surprised at the sumptuous interior that can fit a variety of styles.   Parking   No matter if you live in the city or the suburbs, it’s great to have a vehicle that doesn’t take up a lot of space when it’s time to park. You’ll have an easier time getting into parking spots, and you’ll be eligible for those parking spots devoted solely to compact vehicles that parking garages have. Your nerves will thank you later.   Gas Mileage   You can enjoy awesome gas mileage with a smaller car. Even if you aren’t focused on going green and cutting down on emissions, you’re sure to save by driving a smaller, more efficient vehicle.   Room   Taller drivers might automatically ignore smaller cars, but the truth is that small vehicles can be surprisingly roomy. While admiring the interior of a compact model, take note of the leg, cargo and passenger room.   A More Enjoyable Drive   Smaller cars are oftentimes more nimble, have better acceleration than larger cars and break better. You don’t have to be a race car driver to enjoy this driving style, but you’re sure to have more fun behind the wheel.   There’s no need to think that you’re making sacrifices with a smaller vehicle. As noted above, there’s much to enjoy. Start exploring your options for compact vehicles at Monaco Motorcars today.