When Do You Know It’s Time for an Oil Change?
There was once a time when we were told to change our oil every three months or 3,000 miles. With the introduction of more technologically advanced engines and modern oil chemistry, those days have come and gone. Generally speaking, today’s vehicles can go anywhere from 5,000 to 15,000 miles in between oil changes.
So how can you tell if your car is in need of one?
Oil Change Helpful Hints
Refer to the manual
The first and simplest way to know if your car is due for an oil change is to check the manual. Your manual is specifically written for your make and model. That means it’s more reliable than advice from your gearhead friend or information you’ve been given from your mechanic on previous cars.
Your car is special and should be treated as such. If the manual specifies you should change the oil, take your car in to get serviced.
Keep an eye on the warning light
Modern cars can let you know if you need an oil change without you even moving from behind the wheel. Your car likely has an oil light that kicks on when you need an oil change. This light may also be a sign that your oil level is low, so you’ll want to get it checked right away.
Check your oil
Many service experts recommend checking your oil at least once a month. While you’re under the hood, use your dipstick to take a look at your oil. First, if the level is low, you’ll need to make sure to fill it up. The oil should look amber in color. If the oil looks too dark or dirty or is filled with particles, you should take it in for service right away.
Look out for signs of car trouble
If you’re noticing your car isn’t driving as it should, there’s a possibility that your oil is the culprit. Old or low oil can cause your engine to overheat, leading to costly repairs. It’s best to get this looked at immediately. In some cases, going too long between oil changes can even cause your engine to shut down.
Get Your Oil Changed in Princeton, IL
If you need auto service in Princeton, Illinois, bring your vehicle to the expert technicians at Princeton CDJR. Schedule an oil change today, and check out our Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM service coupons.
Car buying can be a hectic process, but it doesn’t have to be. With all the tools available to you, finding a used car that’s right for you has never been easier. The following tips will help you confidently take home your next vehicle.
5 Things to Consider When Buying Used
Understand your budget
Whether buying new or used, you have to consider how much car you can afford. Look closely at your finances and see how much you can realistically budget for a vehicle. Fortunately, used cars generally sell for less, so it shouldn’t be hard to find something that works for you. If you’re looking to get an auto loan, consider using an auto loan calculator to more accurately predict monthly payments.
Consider your options
There are plenty of different car styles to choose from, so you should reflect on what you need out of the vehicle to help narrow things down. What must-have features are on your list? When looking online, take advantage of search filters. This will help display only the vehicles that fit your necessary criteria.
Think about the future
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s not as easy as choosing the least expensive choice. While a vehicle might seem like a money-saving option today, it could cost you more in the long run. Tools like Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own calculator help you analyze how dependability and fuel efficiency might actually end up saving you money several years down the road.
Keep doing research
Even after you’ve picked out the perfect vehicle, there are more things to consider. Using a pricing guide will help you see what price the exact vehicle is currently valued at. These guides evaluate the vehicle’s age, mileage, condition, and more, allowing you to see if the selling price is where it should be. You can even use the VIN to access a vehicle history report, which helps you see how many previous owners it has had and if it has been in any major accidents.
Use the eye test
Looking up numbers is a good place to start, but seeing the car in person is always a smart idea. Ask to take it for a test drive so you can see how it feels to be behind the wheel. Check for potential damage that you couldn’t see through photos online. If you love the car but are questioning its condition, have it inspected to set your mind at ease.
Visit Our Used Car Dealership in Princeton, IL
Ready to get started? Princeton CDJR can help. Our used car dealership in Princeton, Illinois, will help you find the best option for your needs and your budget. Check out our used specials and incentives today.
When you’re looking for an SUV in Princeton, Illinois, you want something that can handle the year-round grind. Luckily, that’s the 2019 Jeep Cherokee’s M.O. With a variety of models equipped with innovative features and rugged performance, the Cherokee is built for anything.
Read on to learn more about the 2019 Jeep Cherokee for sale.
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee: An Inside Look
Rugged Performance
The 2019 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with an available 270-horsepower 2.0L Turbo engine that delivers 295 lb.-ft. of torque for impressive power and exceptional efficiency. A 9-speed transmission and dual variable valve timing deliver a boost of power for even greater performance.
With three available 4×4 systems and the Jeep® Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, you’ll be able to confidently traverse a wide variety of terrains. Whether you’re off-roading to a campsite or heading to work, you’ll have the traction to tackle snow, dirt, mud, and more.
Everyday Convenience
As you drive the new Cherokee, you’ll be able to enjoy peace of mind via the Accident Avoidance features. These features aim to give you an extra set of eyes and protect against what you can’t expect. They include:
- Available Blind Spot Monitoring
- Available LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning w/ Lane Keep Assist
- Available Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning w/ Active Braking
- Rear Cross Path Detection
With these features, you’ll be able to focus on driving while your passengers enjoy the cabin comforts. Connect your iPhone or Android smartphone to the available Uconnect® touch-screen display to gain access to your favorite apps, receive text messages, and rock out to your carefully curated playlists. Let the music pump through the available Alpine® Premium Sound System, which is equipped with a 12-channel 506W amplifier, nine speakers, and an 8” subwoofer.
If you’re on a road trip and your smartphone or tablet battery runs out, plug it into one of the two USB ports on the media hub. Your passengers can enjoy a full view of the night sky while you drive, too, with the available CommandView® Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof.
Passengers in the rear seats will enjoy a comfortable seat and additional legroom if needed with the available sliding rear seats. The available heated front seats help keep the driver and a passenger toasty on chilly winter mornings. When it’s time to load up the Cherokee for sports practice, a camping trip, or after the weekly grocery run, you can fold down the 60/40-split rear seats to open up 54.9 cu. ft. of space.
Explore New Cars For Sale in Princeton, IL
Interested in learning more about the Cherokee? Visit Princeton CDJR to check out this and the rest of our inventory of new cars for sale in Princeton.
Navigate toward awesome adventures throughout the Midwest behind the wheel of the 2018 Jeep Compass. This compact SUV is ready for city streets, highways, and country roads with its rugged engineering, powerful drivetrain, and impressive cargo capacity.
To learn more about the 2018 Jeep Compass for sale in Princeton, continue reading.
The 2018 Jeep Compass: Standard and Available Features
Gear Up
The whole family can pile into the Compass, thanks to its comfortable seating for five. The selection of available leather trim appointments, heated front seats, and panoramic dual-pane sunroof help add to the handsome interior that has been carefully designed.
When it’s time to load up for soccer practice or a weekend getaway, open the available power liftgate. Inside the rear cargo area, you’ll find an available adjustable cargo floor, which can be raised or lowered to suit your storage needs. You can also fold down the 60/40-split rear seats to open up 59.8 cu. ft. of space to hold luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear.
Stop at Nothing
The Compass’ 2.4L Tigershark® engine with MultiAir® 2 valvetrain system produces 180 horsepower for efficient acceleration. Its maximum towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. allows you to bring along your favorite outdoor toys.
Tackle snow, mud, sand, and more with ease via the available Jeep® Active Drive 4×4 system that provides reliable traction and stability. This system seamlessly changes from 2- to 4-wheel drive (4WD) to balance efficient fuel consumption and rugged power when it’s needed.
As you head off-road, you can navigate rocky and uneven terrain with confidence, as the Jeep Compass boasts an 8.5” of ground clearance. You can also easily ford streams, puddles, and flooded underpasses with water up to 19” deep in the Jeep Compass Trailhawk trim.
Focus on Safety
Engineered with more than 70 available safety and security features, the 2018 Jeep Compass is built to provide peace of mind. As you drive down the road, seven standard airbags stand ready to help cushion you and your passengers in the event of a collision.
Meanwhile, driver assistance features are available to help protect against the unpredictable. These include:
- LaneSense® Lane Departure Warning w/ Lane Keep Assist
- Forward Collision Warning w/ Active Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Parkview® Rear Backup Camera
- Parksense® Rear Park Assist System
- Rear Cross Path Detection
Test Drive the Jeep Compass in Princeton, IL
Looking for the new Compass? Contact us to schedule a test drive or stop in to view our inventory of new Jeep cars for sale.
Hop behind the wheel of the 2019 RAM 1500 and you’re ready for big adventures. Engineered to traverse rocky hillsides, muddy forest floors, and city streets, the 2019 RAM 1500 can handle the elements, and more — there’s a reason this is the most capable RAM yet.
Find out what this truck has to offer.
2019 RAM 1500: Capability at its Finest
Prepared to Perform
Don’t be afraid to take your new RAM 1500 off the beaten path — the available 4×4 Off-Road Package lets you explore new domains with the help of Hill Descent Control, an electronic locking rear differential, tow hooks and skid plates, and more.
Choose one of several engine configurations to bring the power to your pickup. For maximum capabilities, opt for the 395-horsepower 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine with eTorque and haul up to 12,750 lb.
To reduce drag and improve overall efficiency, the RAM 1500 has been redesigned with aerodynamic features including the active front air dam and available class-exclusive Active-Level™ Four Corner Air Suspension. It has the added benefit of making every ride smoother, too.
Room for Gear
Load up the cargo bed with work equipment and camping gear alike thanks to 61.5 cu. ft. of maximum storage space. Opening and closing the tailgate is easier with the available nitrogen- and oil-charged dampened tailgate. And, when you can’t fit more stuff in the bed, use your key fob to easily open up the two available lockable and drainable storage bins offered by the class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System.
Interior Technology
Climb inside the cabin and keep connected everywhere you go. The available Uconnect 12” digital touchscreen display offers Apple CarPlay™ and SiriusXM® so you can access your favorite smartphone app, stream your music library, make phone calls, and more with the sound of your voice or a tap on the screen.
Rock out to your favorite tunes with the available Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System, or enjoy a quiet, relaxing drive thanks to available interior noise cancellation technology.
Find the 2019 RAM 1500 for Sale in Princeton, IL
Looking for cars for sale in Princeton, IL? Check out the 2019 RAM 1500 alongside a variety of vehicles at Princeton CDJR. Visit our showroom or call our store to schedule a test drive today.
Check Out What’s New on the 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Don’t let rain or snow stand in the way of your next adventure — just hop behind the wheel of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee and withstand the conditions, courtesy of its impressive off-road terrain capabilities. While you cruise from the neighborhood into the country and beyond, smart technologies will keep you occupied while advanced safety features will keep you protected.
Continue reading to learn about everything the new Jeep Cherokee has to offer.
Introducing the New 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Durable and Capable
Whether you’re climbing a snowy peak, trekking through a muddy forest, or maneuvering a rocky mountainside, the Cherokee is ready to tackle any terrain. With the Selec-Terrain® Traction Management System, you can choose from Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud, and available Rock modes to grant your Jeep the power and stability to navigate your adventure.
Select from three powertrains to equip your Cherokee with outstanding performance and power, including one with the all-new 270-horsepower 2.0L Turbo engine. For those seeking greater capabilities, opt for the 3.2L PENTASTAR® V6 engine with 9-speed automatic transmission and a towing capacity of up to 4,500 lb. to haul all of your gear.
Crafted Convenience
The Cherokee is prepared to take you anywhere — and with a few added conveniences, every drive makes your busy life a little easier. Opt for the available Keyless Enter ‘N Go™ key fob to easily unlock your cabin. Before you unlock the cabin, automatically start the vehicle from up to 300 ft. away with the available remote vehicle start feature.
On the freeway, available adaptive cruise control will adjust your speed to a certain distance depending on the traffic conditions. And when your day of driving flows into the evening hours, the available automatic headlamps will sense when you need light to guide your way home.
Smart Safety
Wherever the road the takes you, it’s important to get there in a vehicle you can rely on. The 2019 Cherokee offers a suite of dependable safety features that will help you stay confident as you take on your next adventure. Available Blind Spot Monitoring alerts you to other drivers when you can’t see them, while available LaneSense® with Lane Keep Assist warns you when your vehicle drifts into other lanes.
Discover Your 2019 Jeep Cherokee in Princeton, IL
Looking for a Jeep dealer near me in Princeton, IL? Visit Princeton CDJR today to test drive the 2019 Jeep Cherokee, or call us at (815) 915-4157 for more information.
How to Choose the Perfect RAM Pickup Truck for You
If you’re in the market for a RAM truck, you have a lot of options. Every job site demands something different than the next, so it’s important to make sure your chosen pickup offers the capabilities you need.
Let’s discuss five factors to consider when you’re shopping RAM trucks.
What to Know Before You Buy a RAM
Size matters
There’s more to it than buying the biggest truck on the market. Looking for a smaller pickup that’ll get the job done in the backyard or at the campsite? A light-duty truck should make the cut. The 2018 RAM 1500 can easily handle smaller trailers carrying ATVs and other light recreational gear. For serious work, a heavy-duty truck like the 2018 RAM 2500 is a must.
Weight matters, too
It’s easy to overlook a vehicle’s gross combined weight rating (GCWR). This spec is determined by adding the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating and its gross trailer weight rating. Checking a truck’s GCWR helps ensure that the RAM you’re looking for can accommodate not only the items you’re towing but your passengers and any other cargo in the cab, too.
Balance is key
Thanks to the wide range of available RAM models, it’s easy to get the best of both worlds when it comes to payload and towing capacities. But it’s important to know that each affects the other. If you’re expecting to tow heavy gear, make sure you prioritize towing capabilities. If you frequently travel with other people, trucks with increased payload capacities may be your go-to choice.
Several features affect your towing capacity
Various features play a role in determining your truck’s towing capacity. For starters, smaller cabs and shorter boxes mean less space for a heavy payload, which leads to a higher towing capacity. Likewise, two-wheel-drive trucks feature a lighter curb weight, which can lead to a higher towing capacity.
It requires compromise
Your truck’s axle ratio affects its performance in a few different ways. Higher ratios make for responsive performance and increased towing power, while a lower ratio ramps up efficiency and minimizes road noise. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs.
Find Your Dream Truck in Princeton, IL
With an assortment of RAM trucks for sale in Princeton, Illinois, Princeton CDJR can help you choose the model that delivers the performance you need. Visit our dealership or contact us to learn more about choosing the right truck.
Sneak Peek: The All-new 2019 RAM 1500 Pickup Truck
Several rigs debuted when the North American International Show hit The Motor City earlier this year, but none of them made a bigger impression than the all-new 2019 RAM 1500. This full-size pickup is known for its legendary grit — and the fifth generation is no different. But that doesn’t mean it’s the same truck.
Keep reading to learn what makes the 2019 RAM 1500 bigger and better than ever.
The 2019 RAM 1500: New Generation, Same Reputation
Style
The 2019 RAM 1500’s new look is its most noticeable improvement. A sculpted hood, intricate grille, and strong “RAM” lettering highlight the front of the pickup. An integrated rear spoiler draws eyes to the back.
But don’t be fooled — the changes aren’t cosmetic. The next-generation RAM 1500 packs a class-exclusive RamBox® Cargo Management System, an available power-release tailgate, and up to 61.5 cu. ft. of cargo volume in the bed.
But what about the cabin? This full-size truck doesn’t disappoint in that department, either. Active noise cancellation technology, available Natura Plus leather seats, best-in-class legroom, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof await both driver and passengers.
Power
There’s nothing light-duty about the 2019 RAM 1500. Thanks to an available 395-horsepower 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine with eTorque, this rig can tow up to 12,750 pounds and crank out as much as 410 lb.-ft. of torque — both best-in-class.
The new RAM 1500 might be a nightmare for the competition, but it rides like a dream. Class-exclusive Active-Level™ Four-Corner Air Suspension and an 8-speed TorqueFlight® automatic transmission make for even, responsive handling. But if you want to step away from a smooth ride every once in a while, the available 4×4 Off-Road Package is there for you.
Tech
Pickups aren’t generally known for their tech-savviness, but the 2019 RAM 1500 doesn’t mind breaking the mold. Each model features fourth-generation Uconnect® systems with the option of a 12” touch-screen infotainment upgrade.
But RAM’s first job is keeping you safe. That’s why they’ve added over 100 available safety features to the RAM 1500. Guided Parking, Smart Cruising, and Lane Departure Warning are just a few of the systems that have your back. And we do mean your back. With Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path and Trailer Detection, the RAM 1500 accounts for you and your haul.
Get the Guts and Glory of a New RAM 1500 in Princeton, IL
The 2019 RAM 1500 won’t be available until later this year, but you can keep up with its release status by following Princeton CDJR on Facebook. If you don’t feel like waiting, we still feature the 2018 RAM 1500 for sale at our Chrysler Jeep Dodge RAM dealership in Princeton, Illinois. We look forward to seeing you for a test drive.
What Are Genuine Mopar® Parts and Specials?
If you own a Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or RAM, chances are you’ve heard of the Mopar® name. But unless you’re an expert or auto enthusiast, you might not know exactly what it means. You might know that Mopar® is synonymous with America’s greatest vehicles. But why? What makes it so special?
At Princeton CDJR, we’ve got answers. We know the Mopar® name well, so we’re here to break it down for you. Keep reading to learn more.
Mopar® Explained: Genuine Parts and Specials for Your Vehicle
What does Mopar® mean?
Mopar® is a compound word composed of letters from the words “motor” and “parts.” More specifically, Genuine Mopar® products are OEM parts and accessories designed for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles. Your car wasn’t manufactured by just anybody, so you wouldn’t trust random, off-brand parts to get the job done. Luckily with Mopar®, you don’t have to.
Mopar® at Princeton CDJR
At Princeton CDJR, we provide Genuine Mopar® parts. But we don’t just supply the best products — we offer the best prices, too. Browse our Mopar® parts and service coupons, and you’ll find America’s most reliable parts at a price that works for you. Plus, our certified technicians are specifically trained to install them.
Take Advantage of Mopar® Specials in Princeton, IL
Now that you know a little bit more about Mopar®, what are you waiting for? Need a new battery, oil change, or something more extensive? Schedule an appointment at Princeton CDJR today. When you make the trip up the road from Kewanee or Dixon and see the Mopar® service difference, you’ll be glad you did.
While other vehicles are limited to the road, almost everything is fair game in a Jeep. You know these one-of-a-kind SUVs for their 4×4 capabilities and no-holds-barred approach to all-terrain driving. In fact, off-roading should be one of the New Year’s resolutions for your Jeep — if it isn’t already.
But what if you aren’t an off-roading expert yet?
Not everyone is. Off-roading is fun, and your Jeep makes it look easy — but it’s trickier than it appears. You’ve probably got questions. And that’s okay because we’ve got answers. Keep reading to learn more.
5 Common Off-roading Questions for Your Jeep
Question: How fast should I go?
Answer: When it comes to off-roading, slow and steady wins the race. How slow? Try about 1 to 5 mph. In low-range 4WD, it’s actually the low speed and low gearing that pulls you over whatever hurdles the terrain throws at you.
Question: When should I engage 4WD?
Answer: You don’t want to wait until it’s too late. Whenever you foresee the need for added traction, engage your 4WD. Once you get stuck, it’s nearly impossible to activate.
Question: How should I drive on trails?
Answer: First and foremost, you want to make sure the area you’ve chosen for your off-roading adventures is approved for such activity. Whether your tracks are left by a Compass or Wrangler, make sure they affect the area as minimally as possible. It’s possible to have fun without damaging the environment.
Question: Can my Jeep really tackle rocks and other obstacles?
Answer: Absolutely. Jeeps are designed with optimal ground clearance in mind. Once you turn the Selec-Terrain® dial on your Cherokee or Grand Cherokee to the Rock setting, you can crawl over rocks with ease. And we do mean crawl. The ideal speed for maneuvering over rocks doesn’t exceed 3 mph.
Question: How should I off-road in bad weather?
Answer: Whether it’s in snow or mud caused by rain, the key is maintaining forward momentum. Turn your Selec-Terrain® dial to the appropriate drive mode. Don’t over-rev or go into a lower gear than necessary. Doing so can cause you to lose traction and dig yourself into a hole.
Find the Ultimate Off-roading Machine in Princeton, IL
Of course, you can’t start off-roading if you don’t have a Jeep to begin with. Ready to discover the model you’ve always wanted? Princeton CDJR is here to help. Browse our inventory of new cars for sale, and come by for a test drive today.
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