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On, September 20th a category 4 hurricane that carried 150 mph winds made landfall on Puerto Rico. It has left thousands without power, water, and with limited resources. Now as they try to get back to rebuilding their lives, jobs, and communities they are finding it is very difficult to do so with the lack of transportation. The car sales have naturally decreased dramatically after such a devastation to the island. About 1/4 of the cars were lost to flood damage. Many of the damaged vehicles will most likely end up at Insurance Auto Auctions. We can only imagine that the demand for a vehicle is very high. With people needing to return to their regular daily lives, commuting for work, and taking their children and getting them back to a good routine at school. Simply the supply is just too low when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. But they are doing everything they can to change things little by little, and make them more available. A Fact To Remember We will remember just 6 months ago, when Puerto Rico claimed the Guiness World Record for the longest parade of classic cars: 2,491. It is evident that puerto rico has one of the highest rates for car ownership in the world. Positives For The Future Taking one day at a time, we will slowly see little improvements. As different organizations, associations, and families that were not effected by the hurricane season this year, will continue to try to pull together what they can to donate to the island and the people there. Getting the remainder who stayed on the island back on their feet.

Gas Prices sure can increase quickly, but how long does it take them to come down? It seems like we are constantly watching the prices rise at a rapidly increasing rate. What does this mean for the average consumer? It could mean that we are starting to second guess upgrading to a bigger vehicle, with the extra space and power. Which could signify that we are starting to search for a smaller vehicle one that gets better gas mileage and has a smaller engine. But just because we might need to start looking for a car with a smaller engine that won't consume as much fuel, doesn’t mean we have to downsize the power that we want as well. Honda Accord now makes a Turbo Charged Engine. It is a smaller engine but the turbo gives it the boost it needs to make up for any power losses. Definition A turbocharger, or colloquially turbo, is a turbine-driven forced induction device that increases an internal combustion engine's efficiency and power output by forcing extra air into the combustion chamber. Benefits of a Honda Accord With a Turbo Charged Engine Increased Horsepower- Makes more power at a lower rpm It feels more relaxed to drive Increased reliability of engine Higher Efficiency- Runs off energy that is typically lost in naturally aspirated engines, thus the recovery of the engine improves the overall efficiency of engine What Else is Changing in the Car Industry? We have found more and more cars are being made with aluminum bodies. There are some advantages of this as well as disadvantages. Read along with us as we go over a few. Pros 1. Lightw eight 2. Strength and Durability 3. Safety Benefits When applied to an optimized automotivebody structure, aluminum can provide a weight savings of up to 50 percent compared with the traditional mild steel structure. Due to the reduced weight, the car will use less fuel. Aluminum body structures are equal or superior in strength to steel and absorb twice as much crash-induced energy. We have found  that with Honda they tend to make their hoods and trunks with aluminum which saves on weight, but usually does not affect body shop and insurance rates. Cons Now the we considered the pros. When dealing with aluminum it does not come without its disadvantages as well. 1. Higher costs to repair 2. Inability to be welded easily 3. In some situations it is more difficult to paint Aluminum is more expensive than steel, as much as two to three times more. A drawback that comes along with it being more expensive, is you will find that you are spending more money at the body repair shop. When it comes to welding it isn't as easy as if a steel door panel needs to be repaired. Usually with steel it can be welded back together easily, primed and repainted to look like no damage was even done to the vehicle, unfortunately this can't be done with aluminum. Now, we wait and see, to find out exactly what the future of the car industry will decide to do. Will they completely make the switch to aluminum? Or will they keep using steel because it is what we all know best. Only time will tell.

There she was, sitting on our lot, just waiting for someone to take her for a spin. With the color as bright as the “ 1969 General Lee,” and with a nickname like “ Hellcat." It was the 2017 Dodge Challenger SRT 392. Let me just start by saying the speed on this car is astonishing. W ith a 6.2L V8 Supercharged engine s he goes from 0 to 60mph in 3.6 seconds. D riving a car that handled so well on the road would make those dreams I’ve had since I was a kid come true. So my confession as a salesman is that I thought of a plan to take this beauty for a spin. After the long day of work thinking about it, I decided that the Challenger SRT couldn’t go without being driven, not this weekend. I ended up proposing the plan to my boss that my neighbor was really wanting to see and drive the Bright Fiery Orange Dodge Challenger that we just got in. I told my boss I had to drive it home for “him" on Saturday night so he could take it for a spin. The feeling that came from doing something completely against every bone in my body was invigorating. Not only was I making the plans to drive a car with immense power (much more than my standard vehicle I have now), but in the back of my mind I wondered what my boss would have said if he really knew what I was up to. It was just too thrilling and too hard to let a car like this stay by itself, untouched, no one to drive her, no one to put her speed to the limits. Could I have potentially lost my job for doing something like this? Probably not. Hopefully I would have just gotten a grin followed by a slap on the wrist and a speech to never do it again. I’m stuck here wondering how long it will be before I can pull something like that off again. Maybe if I’m lucky my next dream car will magically pull up on to our lot, waiting for someone to drive her around the block…. and i’ll be there to do just that.

With the price of gas constantly fluctuating, we all want to know what we can do that will help our mpg’s stay consistent and potentially get us more miles with a tank of gas. Here are a couple things we can do to help our vehicles get better gas mileage. Only Brake When Necessary This will not only ensure us a longer longevity on our brake pads but will help our gas mileage as well. When we constantly are slamming on our brakes it has been proven that it lowers our mpgs, due to the consistent motion of always stopping and going. Accelerate Slowly This goes hand in hand with not slamming on your brakes. Whenever we are at the stop light and we really have that urge to race the other car to our right- fight it, keep in mind that stomping on the gas pedal plays with how much fuel we are burning. Don’t Burn Through Your Fuel Yes, Literally. Once up to speed on the highway, maintain a steady pace in top gear. You may have to be a little more patient, but driving at 55 mph instead of 65 or 75 will save you money in the long run. Watch the Weight Yes, the weight that is being carried around in your vehicle can actually cost you more money. If you find you have been carrying around unnecessary materials in your car, studies have shown that by ditching 100 lbs can improve your economy by around 2%. Really, to be efficient all of these tips work hand in hand together. There area many benefits when having smooth acceleration, cornering, and soft braking it will extend the life of the engine, transmission, brakes, and tires. So not only are you saving your wallet but your adding years back into your vehicle by treating it good.

Looking for a beautiful vacation spot along the east coast to take your new car for a spin? Your just in luck because we have put a list together of a few of the best vacation spots along the east coast. We have you covered from the North to the South. Lubec Maine It’s not hard to find the magic in this rural fishing village. Lubec is home to some truly magnificent pubs and brightly colored lobster boats. Rentals that will sit you by the sea with spacious patios and organic gardens. Pack a lunch, plan a nice walk and visit the historic lighthouse at Quoddy Head State Park. Truly it is perfect for a summer beach vacation with the family. Newport Rhode Island If sailing is your niche in life you will be happy to know Newport offers some of the finest sailing in the world! When you visit you will no doubt love seeing the Gilded Age mansions, for one, but also the quaint seafood restaurants, trendy boutiques, and stunning coastal scenery. Follow the 3.5-mile-long Cliff Walk for breathtaking views of the ocean and a glimpse of lavish homes once owned by wealthy families including the Astors and Vanderbilts. Cape May New Jersey A city at the southern tip of the Cape May Peninsula in New Jersey, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. You will find t he oldest seaside resort in the country. Try a tour on the trolley of the elegant historic district or w hen you’re not relaxing by the waves, go for a hike at Cape May Point State Park, and don’t forget to enjoy a glass of wine (or two!) at Cape May Winery. You will also enjoy walking and sight-seeing the towns unique characteristics it has become famous for- it’s victorian gingerbread styled homes. Hilton Head South Carolina Enjoy laid back days relaxing in the sun, sand and surf on some of the best beaches in the country.  It really is South Carolinas very own paradise nestled in on the coast. From stunning beaches and world-class golf courses, from restaurants bursting with flavors, Hilton Head truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re here for an extended family vacation or a romantic getaway, there are always fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Wherever you choose to go, you will have the trip of a lifetime. Enjoy the ride in your new car, and time with the family.

The Road Trip you’ve been waiting for. You’ve been dreaming of possibly taking a road trip with your family, friends, or possibly just by yourself and doing some soul searching. Well whatever the case be, we’ve put together a few tips before you go off on your way. Inspect Your Car This is by far the most important thing to do before any trip short or long. We always want to ensure that our car is safe and ready for the trek its about to make. You will need to go over the following Oil change Brake Pads Tires Check Radiator Fluid Be Prepared Make sure to have the supplies you will need in case of a flat tire, jumper cables in case of a dead battery, extra oil and fuels just in case, and its always beneficial to carry a first aid kit. When you have the essentials you know you can be confident that you are ready for the unexpected. Clean Your Vehicle There is nothing like having a clean car for a road trip. You will be spending quite a few hours in your vehicle (depending on the length) start it off right, and clean it up so it can get ready for the next hours to come. Entertainment This is the fun part of the road trip, keeping yourselves entertained. Set up a fun playlist that will be sure to keep your energy up and ready for the long drive. Especially those moments when  you look back only to find everyone sleeping. Maps Its important to have your map loaded on your phone, a back up copy, whatever you need to do to make sure you stay on the right path to avoid getting lost. (we’ve all been there). Comfortability & Snacks After a few hours spent in a car we start to realize how we might become a little uncomfortable. Bring something that can support your back for the drive, or for a pillow for your passengers. You also will want to bring snacks and water to keep everyone in the car satisfied. Have a Fun & Safe Trip! Keep these 6 Tips in mind and remember to enjoy the life on the road.

What is CSM? The College of Southern Maryland is located in the town of La Plata. It's campus is situated in a rural area, with a total enrollment of 8,781. The College of Southern Maryland also has campuses in Leonardtown, Prince Frederick and Waldorf. In addition to providing state-of-the-art facilities, La Plata campus offers career training and academic programs resulting in transfers to some of the nation’s best universities. You will find at CSM they want to help their students learn in the best possible way, and when it is most convenient for each individual. Keeping this in mind they offer classes that allow you to take courses online, in the evenings, on the weekends and during the daytime. What They Offer They offer programs through nine different academic divisions. These include general studies, business and technology, health sciences, languages and literature and the social sciences, human services and teacher education division. Student Services is very important at CSM. To be successful, everyone is encouraged to meet with an advisor to reach their personal academic goals as quickly as possible. Offering counseling, tutoring, learning labs, and workshops they are very committed in helping their students reach their goals. Employee Empowerment Here at our Honda Dealership in Waldorf  We: Encourage Open Communication Reward Self Improvement Appreciate Each Individuals Efforts We highly encourage our employees to take advantage of such amazing courses offered at CSM. It will help our employees increase in knowledge, grow their life capabilities and even could lead them to things above and beyond car sales in the future. We recognize that by taking these courses it can improve their lives and the employee will grow and develop new skills. Some of the benefits of a program like this are increased loyalty by the employee, and goodwill in the community as a result.

Times have changed and prices have gone up. Most salesman that work at car dealerships no longer get a company car. It used to be what made sense for the company and a perk for the employees, but now unfortunately, with most companies that is a thing of the past. But there are good reasons for it. To protect the dealership Price of Insurance Less money in the car industry Protecting the dealership. In theory it all makes sense to have the owner lend a car to the employee, where typical business mileage is paid for in terms of the fuel. Along with maintenance and repair costs, tire changes and oil changes. But nowadays it just doesn’t work like that. With years of lending out company cars it is very rare nowadays. As an alternative to a company car, sometimes it is more valuable and worth the money to simply offer a monetary allowance for transport to each of your employees. As always there may be drawbacks of doing this, such as potential abuse of the system, however, there are enough ways to monitor and prevent it from happening. Price of insurance This is one of the major reasons why company cars aren’t dealt out with such easy access. The price of insurance has gone up drastically. If a dealership were to invest in giving cars to most or all of their employees it would cost a fortune. Less money in the Car Industry Finally we have the fact that the money in the car industry is constantly fluctuating. Without a consistent flow of traffic and getting cars in and out of the parking lot, most dealerships can’t afford to risk money spent on company cars. With less money spent in the car industry, unfortunately effects not only the dealership but the employees as well.

Being a salesman at a car dealership can be very rewarding, we get to help individuals buy their first family oriented vehicle, young ones buy their first car, watch people purchase the car of their dreams, and we get to see the beginning of it all. Here is a what a typical day for us as Salesman at a dealership looks like: Bright and early I like to wake up to a nice warm cup of coffee. Read the highlights of the news while cooking something easy for breakfast. Talk to the kids for a little bit over our morning meal. Then help the kids grab all their supplies, ready for school, and get them out the door to the bus stop. Shortly after, I run out as well to be on my way to work. Morning Arrive to work early, grab another cup of coffee, wait for awhile as the team comes together, have a good meeting with the other salesman and managers. We typically go over any helpful tips for the day, feedback from customers and ways to help us all improve, return to my desk and check emails. I will then start calling customers (old and new) and any follow ups of interest that was shown. Late Morning Yes its true, I will yet have another cup of coffee. At this time of the day we have more people coming in and out of the dealership so I will walk outside look for anyone who may have questions or want to test drive any cars. As always the main goal is to make a sale but in a way that doesn’t pressure our potential customers. Lunch Enjoy the nice break. After Lunch I will go back to checking my emails, make more phone calls, and take another walk outside to approach new onlookers. Serious customers are always willing to test drive some cars so we’ll look at a few and take a couple for a spin. Then after a couple hours with our customers we begin to start making a deal, bargain pricing, financing, all the great details involved, but always ensuring that we give them the best price possible. Afternoon Still with the same interested customers, but this is where I like to give them a minute to talk, i’ll walk away and allow them time to think and go over what their final decision is. This is the tricky part because I will either A) walk in to find that they decided that they do not want to purchase the car or B) they want the car! So going along with option B we begin to CLOSE THE DEAL! I will prepare and start filling out the papers of ownership, papers for payment, and finally congratulate the new owners of their beautiful new car! Only the best found at our honda dealership in Waldorf Maryland. Evening I will show a few more cars, give my sales pitch to serious customers, test drive a couple more cars for the evening, possibly have more serious buyers and potentially make another sale here. Night Start closing down and help the managers lock up all cars on display, Late Night Finally arrive home, spend some time with the family, and in the end I will get prepared to do it all over again tomorrow morning.

Best Car Washes in Waldorf Your car can do so much for you - impress your clients, keep your children safe, give your friend a ride. Your car is more than an investment. It's a vital part of your life. Keeping your car clean is one way to ensure it lasts a long time. We don't all have the time to hand wash and detail our vehicle just the way we want, so it is important to find the right business that can help you keep your car looking it's best. Down below are some of the best car washes in Waldorf, Maryland. 1. Mr. Clean Car Wash Located near Eternal Trendz tint shop and Golden Coral in Waldorf, Md. They are the #1 car wash and detailers in Waldorf. Speedy, excellent service. Many options for detail packages. Vacuuming, shampooing, inside car wash, hand dry. Employees with excellent work ethic. Always a long line because it is good quality work! They offer you all different priced packages for vacuuming and detailing and car wash and wipe down.  Services take just 10-15 min because there are 5 guys working on your car at once. Car leaves smelling fresh and looks new! 2. Kleen Wave Auto Spa A full service luxury car wash and detailing center. A hybrid wash where customers have the option to get a soft cloth tunnel wash or hand wash. With over 25 years of experience in the car care industry. 3. Spirit of America Car Wash A one stop shop that is first come, first serve - wash, detail, and lube.  They advertise a car wash system that uses brushless, soft cloths and high pressure to provide a thorough cleaning and sparkling shine to your vehicle. If you value and appreciate a sparkling clean car, but don't have the time to care for it yourself, check out one of these locations to see if they can help you. If you are curious about what else there is to do in Waldorf, Maryland, check out our previous post on 5 Things To Do in Waldorf That You Didn't Know Existed.

In Maryland, we are surrounded by water. We love our water sports and camping. If you're in the market for a vehicle that can tow your cargo, you may think you need a large truck or full-size SUV. But that isn't necessarily true! The Honda Pilot is a three-row crossover SUV with an impressive towing capacity. But really, what can it tow? Towing Capacity The towing capacity depends on the trim level of your Honda Pilot. Trims equipped with all-wheel drive have a maximum capacity of 5,000 pounds. Trims equipped with 2-wheel drive can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This means that while you can't pull your new yacht, you can definitely pull your small boat or ATV. What Can Be Towed With the maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds you can easily tow a decent amount of cargo. Here's a few examples: Small-sized boats ATVs Jet-skis Travel-trailer Pop-up Camper Moving Trailers What to Keep in Mind Always make sure to check the weight of your cargo first. This can usually be found in a manual or by doing a quick Google search to find a weight estimate. However, don't forget to factor in the weight of the trailer your cargo will be on and any additional gear that may be inside or attached to your cargo.   Drivers interested in test driving a Honda Pilot are invited to stop in today for a no obligation test drive. If you want to keep your honda nice and clean, check out the best places in Waldorf to get a car wash.

A wonderful place we all know as Waldorf or possibly your familiar with its original name "Beantown." But by the year 1880 it adopted its new name "Waldorf." With a population well over 65,000 people. It seems like a small area, but we are going to talk about 5 things to do that you possibly never knew about. #5. Take a tour of the BlueDyer Distillery Why not stop by the family run local distillery? You can schedule a tour easily online at their website. They will teach you about the process on how they distill their Gold Rum, Whiskey, and Gin. They give tastings and inside knowledge of what they have a passion for. #4. Cedarville Pond Trail Are you looking to be adventurous? If so, be sure to check out this beautiful 3 mile hike that takes you through the wilderness. Try running this trail or fishing, and feel free to bring your dog! It is a great path to find beautiful wild flowers and stunning views of the pond. Bring your lunch, your family, and set up a nice afternoon picnic. #3. Capital Clubhouse If your looking for an active fun way to spend the afternoon or evening, head over to the capital clubhouse which offers indoor sports, an NHL-size ice rink, rock climbing wall, two multi-sports courts, a fitness center, various classes, and other special events. #2. Paint A La Carte Get in touch with your creative side and stop by Paint a la carte. Go on in, grab a seat, and order your favorite entree and/or a beverage of your choice. They will provide everything you need, the apron, brushes, water-soluble paint, an easel, and a canvas. Get a few friends together and have a nice relaxing evening painting.\ #1. Dr. Samuel A Mudd House Museum One of the most amazing historic places in town, this old-fashioned farmhouse has been in the same family since the 1690s. You can take a guided tour of the historic home and see what life was like in rural Maryland. The museum highlights the history of the Mudd family through artifacts, photos, and furniture. If you would like to learn more about Waldorf Check out our article here on "What it is, and Who Lives There."