7 Weird Car Sounds You Shouldn’t Ignore
Most car owners “know” how their vehicle sounds on a typical day. So when certain unusual sounds crop up, it catches the ear – as they should. Some of these hiccups aren’t a big deal, but some are. It’s always a good idea to have the expert service department at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA have a look. They’ll let you know exactly what’s going on with your car and quickly fix it if needed (all at a fair price.) Let the service department at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA help you decipher what’s going on from these odd sounds in your car.
A WEIRD SOUND WHEN TURNING A CORNER
Any sound your car makes when going around a corner may indicate that your steering linkage may need lubrication or is damaged.
HISSING UNDER THE HOOD
If you hear this after turning off the engine, something like coolant or oil could be leaking onto a hot engine part.
GRINDING WHEN SHIFTING
In a manual transmission, a grinding sound may mean that your clutch is worn or needs some adjusting.
A “CLUNK” WHEN BRAKING
Important hardware like a brake caliper could be improperly mounted – or missing. Additionally, if you hear a “scraping” sound when you hit the brakes, that’s an indicator that your brake pads are likely shot and metal is rubbing against metal.
A “TAPPING” IN THE ENGINE
Usually, a sign that your oil level is low. If, after you’ve checked it, it persists, that’s a sign that there’s either a blockage or that valves need to be adjusted to fix the oil pressure.
“POPPING” – WITH ENGINE HESITATION
Have your vehicle looked over for a clogged fuel filter, ignition issues, worn or damaged spark plug wires or a compromised catalytic converter.
RATTLES UNDERNEATH
Your exhaust system may have worked itself loose. Rattles may also be a result of loose brake pads.
The service department at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA is dedicated to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Concerns? Questions? Get in touch and let us put your mind at ease.
A car is essential for most Americans. Finding one that saves them money, both at the gas pump and in long-term maintenance costs, is equally important. It’s also good to know that the respected automotive site, Edmunds.com, has just named the Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback (available at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA) as one of the “Most Affordable Cars for 2020.” It ranks among the top three hatchback models out there.
Considering that the average price of a new car hovers in the $40,000 range, it’s not surprising that a lot of folks in the market for a vehicle might instinctively go for a used one (and there are some great pre-owned cars at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA). But a new car isn’t out of the question. The 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback offers a lot with a small price tag.
So what are the criteria for making this important list from Edmunds.com? First off, the price of the car. The Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback comes in at a more-than-reasonable cost of around $15K. Then there are those daily expenses, like gas. When it comes to fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback clocks in at a combined 36-39 mpg. It’s among the most fuel-efficient, non-hybrid cars out there.
Despite its low price tag, the Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback doesn’t skimp on the little details. Expect features like a rearview camera system to help you safely monitor what’s behind, six standard airbags and Active Stability Control to keep you in charge under almost any driving circumstances.
Though the Mirage Hatchback is small, the clever design makes the most of every inch. Expect a cargo area that can be customized for any lifestyle, and multiple configurations to comfortably accommodate your passengers.
And when it comes to technology, you’ll enjoy standard Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity to your apps and more via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
So congratulations to the Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback for reaching a top spot on the Edmunds.com list of the most affordable cars for 2020. See the exciting design and features that earned it this top spot by coming into Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA.
What Influences Your Car Insurance Costs?
Like death and taxes, car insurance is one of those “facts of life.” If you or a family member plans to get behind the wheel, you’re going to need car insurance to protect not just yourself, but others on the road. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA knows the ins and outs of safe driving, so here are their insights into what influences the cost of your auto insurance policy.
THE TYPE OF CAR BEING INSURED
It doesn’t take much thought to figure out why insurance costs on a flashy (and fast) sports car will cost more than a reliable family sedan. You could have the best credit score and driving history, and you’ll still see a spike in your premium. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA offers a full line of safe vehicles – yet which still serve up a pretty snazzy look (and feel) on the road.
IS IT SAFE?
Insurers appreciate the kind of safety devices you’ll find in the Mitsubishi line. They’re the little extras that let them know there’s another layer between the car and potential mishaps. And that can result in lower insurance costs.
DRIVING EXPERIENCE
Insurers consider new drivers “high risk” – which means they’ll pay more in premiums. At the other end of the spectrum are “mature” drivers, those over 40 with some time behind the wheel. Insurance costs for older drivers will tend to be much lower.
CREDIT SCORE
Insurance companies often look at a driver’s credit score, as it reflects a general sense of “responsibility.” The higher the score, the better it shows up the driver – and that can positively impact the cost of insurance premiums.
DRIVING HISTORY
It’s hardly a surprise that a driver’s history on the road is a key element in determining an insurance premium. Those without accidents or even parking tickets will naturally get a better rate than those with more reckless road habits.
POLICY LIMITS
If a driver opts for high coverage, they’ll pay for it in their premium. If they want coverage for “add ons” like roadside assistance or windshield repair, that will also add to the bill.
DEDUCTIBLES
If you’re willing to pay more out of pocket after an “incident” (aka a “higher deductible”), your insurance company will reward you with a lower cost on your premium.
Your insurance company is your insurance company. But if you want a vehicle that will make a positive impression (and perhaps positively impact your auto premium), stop by Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA.
The Mitsubishi Outlander, available at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA, has long been a “go-to” choice in the compact crossover segment. Since its debut in 2003, Mitsubishi has consistently improved on this popular SUV – and the upgrades continue. It was just announced that a new iteration of the Mitsubishi Outlander will hit the market in the second half of this year.
Perhaps the biggest change for the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander is the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Already known for excellent fuel economy (25 city/30 hwy), this “greener” version will deliver even better savings. Considering that the 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander won the “5-Year Cost to Own” Award from Kelley Blue Book, it’s a pretty sure bet that this upgrade will help the Outlander keep that honor.
Of course, exceptional fuel performance is one thing – but drivers have been choosing the Mitsubishi Outlander for its many other outstanding qualities. For example, this crossover offers standard third-row seating. When you need more room, fold down the second and third rows and comfortably fit all your gear.
Naturally, you can expect all the technological “bells and whistles,” including a touchscreen that lets you to easily access your apps, music and more. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to instantly switch between phone calls, directions and more.
Mitsubishi will never be topped when it comes to safety features. The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander from Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA offers blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, forward collision mitigation, and many other available options. Plus, the groundbreaking RISE body construction of the Outlander is designed to absorb energy during high-impact collisions. It also offers strategic reinforcements at critical body points.
If you’re in the market for a family-friendly, road-ready crossover SUV, you don’t want to ignore the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander. With the new plug-in hybrid powertrain on the way for the second half of the year, it takes this exceptional crossover to a whole new level. Swing by Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA to get the details.
Smart Tips for Winter Driving
No matter how experienced a driver you are, the winter months provide unique driving challenges. Did you see that recent “viral video” of a Minnesota school bus sliding down black ice – sideways? Winters around Quakertown, PA may not be quite as severe, but don’t ever take them for granted. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown has a few reminders to help you stay safe and secure on the road during this colder period.
KEEP YOUR CAR STOCKED
An Emergency Kit is essential for every driver. Ensure that you have a portable phone charger, jumper cables, flashlight, a jack/spare tire, some food, and water.
During the winter, supplement it with blankets, gloves, and hats. You’ll also want an ice scraper, broom, small snow shovel – and some bags of kitty litter to provide traction in snowy conditions.
DO A CHECK OF THE VEHICLE
Colder weather affects things like tire pressure and batteries. Before heading out on any trip, ensure that these things – as well as lights, flashers and windshield washer reservoir – are up to speed.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
If you have a longer trip on the agenda, check (and double-check) the weather and road conditions. Even if you’re using a GPS, have a paper map or written directions on hand. Give yourself plenty of time and give someone at your destination your route and anticipated arrival time.
SLOW DOWN
On slick or snow-covered roads, the smartest thing you can do is to slow down. Don’t accelerate or decelerate too quickly; add five or six seconds to your “following distance” and don’t try to “power up” any hills. Keep it steady. If you encounter a snowplow, it’s best to stay behind it or use a whole lot of caution of trying to pass it. Plows tend to make wide turns, cross over lanes and exit frequently. Stay alert and don’t be in any rush to get around one.
IN CASE OF A WINTER EMERGENCY
Stay with your vehicle (this is where those blankets and snacks come in handy). Put a brightly-colored piece of cloth on your antenna or window, and keep the dome light on. If your car is running, clear the exhaust pipe of any snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning – and occasionally open the windows.
Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA wishes you safe driving this winter. And remember, springtime is not far away!
How to Get the Most from Your Test-Drive
The prospect of getting a new vehicle is always exciting. However, you don’t just slip behind the wheel and drive it off the lot. That’s where a smart “test drive” comes in. The test-drive gives you a sense of if that new ride is a good fit (‘cause after all, it’s gonna be part of your life for a bit.) The experts at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA offer these helpful tips for getting the most from a test-drive:
First, do a little homework. What kind of vehicle will best suit your (real) life? How much space do you need? Will that change with weekend or family plans, like camping or long-distance travel? What’s your budget? Those questions will help narrow things down when you head to the dealership.
When you first get behind the wheel, how does it feel overall? Was it easy to get in and out? Now, check the dashboard and controls. Do they feel comfortable and intuitive? Can you envision yourself driving this vehicle every day? First impressions are a big deal, so pay attention to your hunches.
Besides the driver’s seat, check all the angles. Sit on the passenger side, in the back, pop the trunk and have a look around– give it a look from all sides.
Get the most from your test-drive by taking it out on a familiar route – as in, to work, school, the stores you hit most often. See how it handles those everyday bumps and turns.
Next, check the features. There are a lot of bells and whistles on the average new ride – from backup cameras to Bluetooth. Test them out and determine which ones you really need (and will use.) Ask questions and ensure you’re comfortable with everything (remember, there are no stupid questions!).The sales staff at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Quakertown, PA is always happy to walk you through the features and ensure you get the most out of your test drive.
6 Smart Tips for Teen Drivers
We all remember the thrill of finally being able to get behind the wheel of the family car for the first time. What a heady sense of independence and freedom! The downside is that teens are just that – teenagers. As such, their judgment and driving experience is a wee bit wobbly. Mitsubishi has been at the forefront of guiding young drivers into steadier, more responsible driving habits. Peruzzi Mitsubishi of Fairless Hills, PA backs these efforts and offers some solid tips for teen drivers.
GET THEM INTO A SAFE-DRIVING PROGRAM
Sure, they’ve taken basic driver’s training. But having your teen take a special “safe-driving” course will pay off not only in increased skills but even lower insurance rates. Check your local DMV for a list of approved programs.
A GRADUATED PLAN
New drivers do better when they gradually up their skills. This means restricting certain tricky elements. For example, driving at night. Experts note that crashes among young drivers often occur between 9pm and midnight. Thus, it’s a smart idea to take away the keys after 9pm. On a similar note, having a lot of passengers increases the odds that a novice driver may become distracted and wind up in a wreck. Until they’re more secure behind the wheel, limit the number of friends that ride along.
MODEL GOOD DRIVING HABITS
If you want your teen to be a safe driver, BE a safe driver yourself. When you’re in the car together, show that you’re paying attention, not texting, eating or screaming at other drivers. Your kids pay attention. This is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your kids will be smart behind the wheel.
TALK ABOUT THE COSTS
Kids often don’t realize the actual costs of a car. Have a frank discussion about the numbers, from insurance to maintenance to the cost of gas. While they may not be in a position to seriously chip in, they’ll realize that the costs of owning a car or truck don’t exist in a vacuum. It’s smart to have them regularly contribute something – even if it’s just a tank of gas every few weeks.
A NO-DRINKING POLICY
This is critical. Have a serious heart-to-heart with your teen driver about drinking and driving. The statistics about teen drivers and alcohol are alarming, so let your teen no that you intend to set a “zero tolerance” rule. Model this yourself when you and the family are out: don’t drink and then get behind the wheel.
A CLEAN DRIVING RECORD
There are many technology tools that will help you keep an eye on your teen’s driving habits, such as sticking to the speed limit and more. Not only will this keep your child safe, but you may also be able to leverage the stats for a better deal on car insurance.
Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA is committed to every driver of their vehicles being safe. They fully back Mitsubishi’s plan to ensure that teen drivers remain safe on the road.
The Multi-Faceted Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
As environmentally-friendly cars continue to take center stage, Mitsubishi is proud to announce that one of their exceptional vehicles is in the spotlight. Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA notes that the Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has been named as a finalist in Green Car Journal’s 2020 “Family Green Car of the Year” award. It was the winner in 2019’s contest, named “Green SUV of the Year.”
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is the world’s best-selling plug-in hybrid SUV. It effortlessly combines the utility and function of a crossover, with the dramatic efficiency of an electric vehicle. You can expect a driving range of 22 miles (all-electric); blended with the gas motor, you’ll get an estimated 74 MPG. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has been modified to feature a unique twin electric motor configuration. This configuration allows for superior traction and maximum performance, especially in dodgy weather conditions.
Besides the environmentally-friendly “bona fides” of the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, you won’t miss out on any creature comforts. Power Driver Lumbar Support comes standard; whoever is behind the wheel will ride easily by way of exceptional lumbar support. Redesigned second-row seats ensure your passengers will be comfortable during the ride. They’ve been designed to bring five people along (who won’t be crammed up against each other). Plus, the folding rear seats provide plenty of customizable cargo space.
The 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV features damping components around the engine and drivetrain to ensure a quiet cabin. This makes switching between your music, maps and more via connectivity apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto even more enjoyable (‘cause you’ll be able to better hear it all).
If you’re in the market for an environmentally-friendly vehicle that doesn’t miss a beat on the “comfort” and “safety” side, consider the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, available at Peruzzi Mitsubishi in Fairless Hills, PA. Considering that it won 2019’s place in Green Car Journal’s “Green SUV of the Year,” its nomination for the 2020 spot is no surprise.
4 IMPORTANT CHILD SAFETY TIPS
These days, drivers enjoy great peace of mind knowing about all of the advanced safety features being built into cars like those in the Mitsubishi family. However, no amount of technology can replace certain safety practices – and this is especially true when it comes to protecting our kids. Here are some critical safety measures to take when it comes to your littlest passengers, courtesy of the experts at Peruzzi Mitsubishi.
TIP #1: ALWAYS USE A CAR SEAT
This may be a no-brainer, but sadly some overlook them. Car seats for kids are specifically meant to keep kids restrained and in the safest position possible. Plus, they’re rigorously tested against impact and motion issues to make sure your little one has the best protection available.
TIP #2: REGISTER THE CAR SEAT
This is important when it comes to things like safety updates, recalls, warranties and much more. It only takes a moment and can pay off big down the road.
TIP #3: PICK THE RIGHT CAR SEAT
Just like their shoes, children outgrow their car seats. Make sure you choose one that fits where they are on the growth spectrum. Rear-facing car seats are used mainly for smaller kids, while the front-facing types are standard for older ones. As they grow, your child may require a mere booster seat, and ultimately, will graduate to only needing a seat belt.
TIP #4: ENSURE THAT THE CAR SEAT IS INSTALLED PROPERLY
Sure, there are plenty of funny videos or commercials showing parents struggling to set a new car seat just right. But it’s no joke. Take the time to read through the instructions and install it correctly (and don’t set it in the middle of the back seats). If you’re stumped, there are community resources that offer a thorough check by a certified child passenger safety technician. Once you know what you’re doing, give the car seat a regular check to make sure it’s still secure and in the right position.
Knowing that your smallest passengers are safe and sound will make the ride that much sweeter. If you ever have any questions about important child safety measures, Peruzzi Mitsubishi is always available to help out. Let us be a resource.
SMART WAYS TO PAY FOR A NEW CAR
When you’re contemplating buying a new vehicle, there are lots of things to factor in. A few of those include how you’ll mainly use it (family stuff, work, weekend adventures). There are fun things like the color and extra features. But the biggest factor is how to pay for that new car in the smartest, most budget-friendly way possible. Peruzzi Mitsubishi has many affordable ways to make that happen, but there are some basics that smart car buyers can do ahead of time that will help get the most from any deal we offer.
Typically, most car buyers choose to finance their purchase. Car loans typically run from 24 to 72 months (68 months is the average). The longer the loan, the lower the monthly payment (although you may rack up more in interest fees). Take a hard look at how to balance out an affordable monthly “nut” and what the full cost on the end will be.
To get the best terms on a loan, a good credit rating is important. Before you start shopping around, check your credit report. If it needs a little work, it pays to hit “pause” on the car buying decision to improve the score. Many online sites will give you free access to your report as well as tips on how to build it up quickly.
Another thing to factor into your car-buying budget is a down payment. Simply put, the more money you can put down, the less you’ll have to finance. Trading in another vehicle is generally factored into your up-front deal. If you’ve taken good care of your current car or truck, you’re likely to get more value (this is why regular servicing pays off in the long run).
If a brand-new ride is out of the question, don’t worry. Peruzzi Mitsubishi offers a full selection of quality, thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicles. These are a financially attractive option for buyers who want a reliable car and an exceptional deal.
Don’t let the financial details of buying a new vehicle overwhelm you. With a little planning – and help from the sales/financing experts at Peruzzi Mitsubishi – getting into the perfect new car, truck or SUV will be painless.
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