Understanding the Towing Capacity of Your Pickup Truck

One of the best things about owning a pickup truck is its towing capability. Whether you’re hauling a camper, a boat, or a trailer, a pickup truck makes the process so much easier. However, not every pickup truck is created equal when it comes to towing capacity. Understanding the towing capacity of your pickup truck is essential for safety and efficiency on the road. In this blog post, we’re going to explain what towing capacity means, how it’s calculated, and why it’s essential for pickup owners.

What is Towing Capacity?

Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that your pickup truck can tow safely without damaging the engine or the suspension system. It’s important to know that towing capacity is not just about the engine’s power. The towing capacity also depends on other factors like braking and transmission system. The towing capacity is not a fixed number and varies depending on the type of vehicle, configuration of the engine, and other additional components.

How is Towing Capacity Calculated?

The calculation of the towing capacity depends on several factors. One of the most critical factors is the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the vehicle. The GCWR is the total weight of the loaded truck and trailer.

The towing capacity calculation also depends on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which is the maximum loaded weight of the vehicle. The towing capacity cannot exceed the GVWR of the truck.

Finally, the tongue weight of a trailer is calculated by multiplying the weight of the trailer by 10 to 15 percent, which cannot exceed the truck’s weight capacity.

Why is Towing Capacity Important for Pickup Owners?

Respecting the towing capacity is essential as it increases safety on the road. Exceeding the towing capacity impairs the stability of the truck, making it difficult to brake. It puts a strain on the engine and can cause engine overheating or even damage.

Additionally, the insurance companies can deny coverage if the vehicle exceeds its towing capacity in case of an accident. Moreover, exceeding the GVWR might lead to fines since it can impede control and cause traffic incidents.

Something any (CDL) trucker will tell you is that there is a limit to braking systems. Using the engine to slow a heavy vehicle is essential. So even though the trailer will come with additional brakes your engine must not only be able to pull the trailer weight, it must be able to help slow the trailer on a hill.

How to Find the Towing Capacity of your Pickup Truck?

The towing capacity of your truck can be found in the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. It’s important not to rely on the previous owner’s information as it can vary depending on several modifications done on the vehicle. In case the towing capacity is not in the manual or online, it’s better to contact the manufacturer’s customer service team. It’s important to verify if the truck has the required components like hitch and transmission system for the towing capacity.

In conclusion, Understanding the towing capacity of your pickup truck is the first step towards a smooth and safe towing experience. Calculating the towing capacity requires the truck’s weight, GCWR, and payload capacity. Exceeding the towing capacity can cause severe accidents on or off the road, putting the life of the driver and others in danger. Always refer to the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website to find the towing capacity and confirm the components required for the towing experience. By understanding the calculation involved in the towing capacity, truck owners can calculate the exact weight of their tow and still enjoy the flexibility it brings.

2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat Review

Ford is addressing a common complaint among consumers looking for a greener alternative to the standard combustion engine found in most pickup trucks. While drivers want to reduce their carbon footprint, they also want the truck to look and perform like a traditional pickup truck.

The 2023 Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat looks and drives like a gas-powered truck. Even though it lacks driving excitement, the hybrid pickup has a competitive sticker price, excellent fuel economy, and plenty of storage for your gear.

Let’s take a closer look at the hybrid pickup truck’s specifications.

Performance

The Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat is in its second year on the market, and the manufacturer is keeping everything the same in 2024.

Consumers can choose between two hybrid engines, a 2.5-liter or a turbocharged 2.0-liter motor. The base 2.5-liter engine will get you where you need to go. If you want a little more excitement, the turbocharged engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in a little over 6 seconds. Drivers looking to maximize fuel efficiency will want to stick with the base motor. It is capable of reaching 60 mph in just over 8 seconds.

The automatic shifts smoothly during acceleration without searching gears, regardless of your speed. The hybrid pickup has plenty of power to tackle steep hills even when you are towing a load.

Some drivers may be disappointed by the steering. It is a little stiff but doesn’t affect your ability to control the vehicle on curves. It may take some drivers to get used to, especially if their previous vehicles boasted responsive handling.

A ground clearance of 8.3 inches and all-wheel drive allow you to do some off-roading in the Maverick.

Interior Design and Comfort

Like most pickup trucks, you will feel the bumps in the road even with Lariat’s padded seats. The seats also provide plenty of support, and headroom isn’t an issue even for taller drivers.

The cabin has a clean, sleek feel thanks to the limited number of buttons and controls. The Maverick comes with what you need and very little extra. The front two seats offer plenty of legroom. The only downside is the hard plastic panels close to your knees. Using the panels to brace against can be uncomfortable. Unfortunately, the rear seats offer limited legroom. The back of the cab is better suited for children or use for storage.

Its boxy-shaped cab gives drivers excellent road visibility. Large windows let you see in all directions, and blind spots are eliminated with the integrated mirrors. You can safely switch lanes without worrying about smaller vehicles that are often out of sight.

Towing and Storage Capabilities

Dividers in the center console, large door pockets, and under-seat storage give you plenty of room to store smaller items. Even though the Maverick is a smaller size pickup truck, you still get a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. Payload capacity is just as impressive at 1,500 pounds.

Overall, the Ford Maverick Hybrid Lariat is a good option for drivers looking for a hybrid vehicle.,

What’s Cheaper To Drive? I.C.E. Or EV?

Electric vehicles are becoming more common few a few reasons.

States are enacting laws calling for sales of new gas-powered vehicles to gradually cease, some by as early as 2030. EVs are also debatably better for the environment compared to gas and diesel vehicles.

While there are benefits to driving an electric vehicle, consumers are wondering if EVs are cheaper to drive.

Purchasing Costs

Drivers are often not prepared for the sticker shock they get when they see the average price of an electric vehicle.

EVs are priced higher than most gas-powered vehicles and the popular thinking is that this results from two main factors…

1. Anything ‘new’ has a premium price.
2. Car makers are still working the kinks out of their processes

Factors contributing to cost that don’t leap to mind include rechargeable batteries and other electrical components which require Rare Earth Minerals that are difficult to mine, refine, and available in limited supply often in countries that aren’t friendly to the US. Vehicle price does depend on the package. Some trim options can make Internal Combustion Engine vehicles (ICE) noticeably pricier than most EVs.

Vehicle brands can also affect the price. For example, the Chevy Bolt is priced lower than a Tesla, along with some vehicles that run on fossil fuels.

EV prices are starting to fall as manufacturing practices become more streamlined.

Some states also offer tax credits and other financial incentives aimed at encouraging drivers to purchase electric vehicles.

Along with the vehicle’s sticker price, you want to account for the charging infrastructure.

Most vehicles come with a Level 1 charger. It is compatible with standard home outlets. The downside is the long charging times. It can take around 8 hours to charge a depleted battery. You can upgrade to a Level 2 charger, but it comes at a cost. Electricity usage costs are something else to consider.

However, when financial incentives are factored in, it can be less expensive to purchase an electric vehicle. You will want to do some comparison shopping before committing to an EV brand and model.

Which is Cheaper – Gas or Electricity

Fuel prices, whether it’s gas or diesel, are typically higher than electricity.

Some utilities even offer financial incentives, like lower rates or discounts on monthly bills, to their customers driving EVs. Drivers can also take advantage of electricity plans that can include free nights and/or weekends to limit at-home charging costs.

There will be costs associated with public chargers. The rates vary based on charging times, electricity rates, and charger ownership. However, compared to prices at the pump, public chargers are less expensive to use.

In most cases, it will always be cheaper to charge an electric vehicle compared to purchasing a tank of gas. However, there are modifying factors we’ll discuss at the end.

Maintenance Costs

Maintaining an electric vehicle compared to a gas-powered car is noticeably more affordable.

You can skip oil changes and spark plug replacements.

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts that require routine maintenance or replacement.

Tire rotation and service checks are still a part of responsible vehicle ownership, but the overall costs are still lower. The primary expense is battery replacement. It can be expensive, but most EV batteries last between eight and twelve years (though this number is heavily impacted by the climate you live in.) You may replace your vehicle before it needs a new battery.

In the long run, electric vehicles are more cost-effective than those with combustion engines. It’s another reason to consider making the switch to an EV.

Now, if we factor in a few more numbers it gets murkier.

The big X-factor here is the Government, in three big ways.

#1:

The numbers above figure in current power rates, current gas prices, and current incentive programs. The government hands out the incentives for buying EV, AND owns all electricity generation/distribution and therefore sets the price of power. The governments also place taxes on gas, increasing the price per gallon. The taxes go to, among other things, maintaining roads. If EV owners were to suddenly be asked to shoulder their share of these cost, or worse the decision is made to place road taxes on your power bill, you might not find EV’s so cost effective. So to say the government has their thumb on the scale is an understatement.

#2:

Despite the current press, most electricity is not made through renewable sources. Electricity made from renewable sources is more costly than electricity made the traditional way, so the more “green” energy we use the higher your power bill goes. Is it likely to happen? Well the same people who don’t want you to burn fuel in your car don’t want you to burn it to make electricity. As it is now, you can’t say an EV is better for the environment just because the emissions associated with that car are created at a factory somewhere, not at the car itself.

#3:

Oil is found around the world on privately owned land, shipped by publicly owned companies, refined by publicly held companies, then distributed by publicly held companies. There is potential for competition at every point and as you learned in high school economics, competition is good for keeping the cost of goods low.

Electricity is generated by companies that are at least partially owned by a government agency. Then shipped to market via similar enterprises (half owned by the federal and state governments). Then it is distributed by, you guessed it, local PUDs which are at least partially owned by the government. The only competition they have is…petroleum.

In conclusion, if you want to triple your power bill, help the government get rid of all ICE vehicles.

Auto Trim Package Series: Model T’s?

Series began with this post on Trim Levels and we started looking at the popular car makers best selling model with the Dodge Charger. Now we conclude part 3 of Ford because tthe Ford “F-Series” is their best seller, which isn’t really One Single Model, right? Just because it’s a fun thought to realize the Model T is still their third best seller over all, we decided to cover the trim options that Ford made available for this highly versatile vehicle that they made for decades in the founding years of the motorized vehicle era.

PS you can see Part 1: F-Series & Part 2: Ford Escort at these links.

Ford Model T Trim Options

The Ford Model T, also known as the “Tin Lizzie,” is a legendary automobile that revolutionized the automotive industry during the early 20th century. Mass-produced in the United States from 1908 to 1927, this iconic vehicle was made available in different models and colors that catered to people of various socioeconomic backgrounds. One of its distinctive attributes is its trim package, which provided various levels of comfort and luxury to the driver and passengers. In this blog, we will dive into the original trim packages of the Ford Model T and what made them special.

Standard Trim Package

The standard trim package of the Ford Model T was the most basic and affordable option. It was a minimalistic design featuring a single bench seat, little-to-no interior or exterior accessories, and a simple black paint finish. Despite its lack of frills and convenience features, the standard trim package was perfect for those who needed an affordable vehicle for daily use.

Henry Ford is famous for say, “they can have any color they want as long as its black.”

Touring Trim Package

The touring trim package, on the other hand, offered more space for passengers and storage. It was designed with people who like to travel or go on outings, with more accessible entry and exit points and more legroom. Touring models had curtains installed to protect passengers in inclement weather and were often customized by individual buyers to suit their specific needs.

Roadster Trim Package

If you were looking for a sportier ride, the roadster trim package was the way to go. It had a sleek design with a low-cut windshield and a raiseable convertible top, offering a wind-in-your-face driving experience. The interior had a more premium seating area, and the car’s exterior was more extensively customized, including brass headlamps and nickel-plated door handles.

Coupe Trim Package

For its time, the coupe was considered the most luxurious model of the Ford Model T. It came with better upholstered seats, a fixed hardtop roof, and superior finishings in the interior and exterior. It provided better privacy, protection from the weather elements, and a quieter cabin ambiance than the touring or roadster models.

Delivery Wagon Trim Package

The final package, delivery wagon, was developed as a workhorse to transport goods. It featured a cargo compartment built on the chassis of the Ford Model T, and some versions had front-facing seats for the driver and cargo bed attendants. The cargo space could be enclosed or left open, and the delivery wagon was very adaptable to different uses and environments.

In conclusion, the Ford Model T was a vehicle that brought affordable and reliable transportation to many people. The trim packages that were developed offered various levels of comfort and luxury to suit different people’s needs. Despite being over 100 years old, the Model T is still a beloved icon and a significant part of automotive history. Now that you know about what made each Model T trim package unique, next time you spot a Model T, you can marvel at its history and unique trim package!

Car Trim Series – Ford Escort

In an early post we talked about what a Trim Level was. Now lets examine some common Trim Packages in the biggest car seller in the US. Obviously we can’t do an exhaustive chronical of all the Trim Levels of all the car makers, although we list a lot in our Auto Makers Series, but we’ll get what we can of the popular selling cars of the day. As always, if we’ve forgotten anything, feel free to comment.

Our rescent series on Automotive Trim Packages (starting with the Dodge Charger) took a detour at Ford, due to the fact that the F-Series Trucks are listed as their top-selling model (which isn’t a single model in our opinion) and their 3rd best selling model is the Model T. So while we did cover the F-series, this is really the Ford part of the Trim Package Series, their #2 top seller, the Escort. We will do our best to also cover Model T’s just for fun.

Ford Escort Trim Options

The Ford Escort is known for its exceptional performance and reliability. The 2023 model year lineup has some exciting new trim packages, although they are recycling some familiar names.

The new 2023 trim packages for Ford Escort have been designed with a combination of advanced technology, performance, safety features, and aesthetics in mind. In this blog post, we will delve deep into each of the trim packages, giving you an idea of what to expect.

S:

The S trim is the base trim for the 2023 Ford Escort. It is a reliable car with a sporty design that comes with a standard 2.0L inline-four engine with an output power of 168 horsepower. Although it’s the base trim, it is still packed with standard features such as automatic headlights, 4.2-inch infotainment display, rearview camera, Sync 3 infotainment system, and more, making it a top choice for those on a tight budget.

SE:

If you are looking for a trim with a little more spice than the base S trim, the SE trim would be an excellent choice. With an MSRP of $22,650, the SE trim boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 198 horsepower, which is a significant increase over the S trim. This trim offers a host of advanced features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, heated front seats, and automatic climate control, making it the perfect choice for someone seeking an upscale feel without the high price tag.

Titanium:

The Titanium trim is the highest level available for the 2023 Ford Escort. It comes packed with all the features available in the lower trims, plus more. With a starting MSRP of $26,200, the Titanium trim comes with a 2.0L inline-four engine that produces an exceptional 245 horsepower. This trim boasts premium features such as an eight-inch touchscreen, a 10-speaker audio system, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, and much more.

ST:

The ST trim is the performance-oriented trim of the 2023 Ford Escort lineup. It comes packed with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 285 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The ST trim has an aggressive look, thanks to its special black accent package, an ST badge, and a rear spoiler. Advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure and forward warning systems, and blind-spot monitoring are also included as standard in this trim.

In conclusion, the 2023 Ford Escort lineup offers impressive performance, technology, and safety features at an affordable price range. Depending on your requirements and budget, you can choose from four trim packages, S, SE, Titanium, and ST, each packed with advanced features, both standard and optional. With the 2023 lineup, Ford has shown to be staying a step ahead in the automotive industry. Visit your local dealer today and check out the new 2023 Ford Escort trim packages; you’ll be impressed.

Does It Cost Anything To Refinance Your Car Loan?

Whether it’s a new or used vehicle, buying a car is a large expense. Since few car buyers can pay the full sticker price up front, most drivers opt for financing. It allows them to pay off the car in monthly installments. Even with interest, financing can make car buying more affordable for the average driver. Another benefit of financing a vehicle is the boost it can give your credit score. Make the payments on time and watch your credit rating gradually rise.

Sometimes, drivers get locked into a car loan with less-than-perfect terms. It may be the best option at the time, but finances can change. So, can you refinance your car loan, and will it cost you additional money?

Can You Refinance a Car Loan?

It is possible to refinance most car loans, and lenders are often agreeable. It’s typically considered a low-risk loan since the lender can take possession of the vehicle if you default on the payments. They can sell the vehicle to recoup the remaining amount owed on the car loan.

Lenders will consider a few factors before approving a refinancing request. Your credit score and history of payments is a factor, along with your debt-to-income ratio. Financial institutions will also consider the vehicle’s age and condition. If the blue book value is less than the amount your want to borrow, you can run into difficulties.

You are less likely to get refinancing approval when you are upside down on a loan.

What Does it Cost to Refinance a Car Loan?

Refinancing a vehicle loan does come with costs. Fee amounts vary by lender. Some may only charge a nominal fee, while others can drastically increase the amount of your loan.

Some of the fees you may accrue by refinancing a car loan can include the following:

• Loan termination fees: Some lenders charge a fee to terminate or pay a car loan off early. The reason some lenders discourage early loan payoffs is to ensure they receive the interest built into the loan. Before you decide to terminate your loan, it’s a good idea to read the fine print. If there is a fee, it may make more financial sense to stay with your current loan.
• Application fees: Most lenders, regardless of the type of loan, charge an application processing fee. Financial institutions will provide you with a quote for free so you can plan your budget around the processing fee. Fees also vary by lender, so take your time and shop around to find the best rates.
• Registration fees: Registration fees are controlled by the state. Some states charge a fee to register your vehicle, while others hide it in taxes. Your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office will be able to tell you if it applies to you and the fee amount.
• Title transfer fees: Title transfer fees are also up to the state. Not all states charge a fee to transfer your vehicle title. The DMV will be able to help you assess these fees, if applicable.

It does cost to refinance your vehicle loan. However, the amount will vary depending on the lender and your state regulations.

Car Trim Series – Ford

In an early post we talked about what a Trim Level was. Now lets examine some common Trim Packages in the biggest car seller in the US. Obviously we can’t do an exhaustive chronical of all the Trim Levels of all the car makers, although we list a lot in our Auto Makers Series, but we’ll get what we can of the popular selling cars of the day. As always, if we’ve forgotten anything, feel free to comment.

The first post in this series was about the Dodge Charger. Today lets take on Ford.

By now we all know what a trim package is, now it’s time to take an interesting case. One interesting factoid is that, while the Ford F Series of trucks is the current best seller of all time, the Model T is the 3rd best seller of all time, still. And lets face it counting the entire F series as one model is kinda cheating, right?

It sort of feels like we should just do a post about the Escort, the #2 overall model, AND the Trim Packages of the Model T, but let’s start with “the F-series” by looking what’s changed this year verses previous years.

Ford Trim Options

Ford F Series Trucks have been an iconic choice for truck enthusiasts for many decades. They have continuously improved their quality, design, and reliability with each new model year. Ford F-150 is one of the most popular trucks in America, but its success doesn’t stop there – Ford offers a range of F-series trucks that cater to different preferences and needs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the expected changes and improvements in the 2023 trim packages for Ford F series trucks that will make them stand out from their previous models and competitors.

Powertrain

The truck’s powertrain options play a vital role in its performance, and Ford is known for its powerful engines. The 2023 Ford F series is expected to have a V8 engine option with an increased power output and efficiency compared to previous models. There will also be updated transmission options, including an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, incorporated in the new trim packages.

Design

Design is one of the critical factors that drive the choice of pickup trucks, and the 2023 Ford F series will not disappoint. With a grille, headlights, and bumpers redesigned to set them apart from their predecessors, expect a more aggressive and rugged look from the 2023 F series. The design will be distinctive for each trim package, with an option for bigger wheels and more stylish finishes.

Technology

Pickup trucks are no longer just workhorses but fully equipped vehicles with advanced tech features. The 2023 Ford F series is expected to have improved infotainment systems, more safety features, and the latest in driver-assist technology. Ford is set to introduce Ford Co-Pilot360 3.0, an updated suite of driver assists features, that provide improved lane-keeping, automated parking, and adaptive cruise control, among others. There are also rumors of the introduction of an electric powertrain option in the F series lineup, reflecting a shift towards electrification in the pickup truck market.

Interior

The interior of the 2023 Ford F series is expected to be more luxurious and spacious than its predecessors. There will be an option for leather seats, wood accents, and an updated sound system to enhance the driving experience. The cabin will also be roomier; passengers and the driver will enjoy more legroom and comfortable seating for a more relaxed driving experience.

Towing and Cargo capacity

The 2023 Ford F series will continue to cater to towing and hauling demands. The new F series trucks will keep their reputation as one of the best trucks for towing and hauling cargo. Ford is expected to introduce new technologies to optimize the trucks’ capabilities for an improved towing and payload management experience, making the tasks more effortless and more efficient than ever.
With this post, we have discussed the significant expectations for the 2023 Ford F series trucks, including powertrain, design, technology, interior, and towing and cargo capacity. The new lineup will be designed to meet different preferences and needs. Expected improvements and upgrades in these areas will make the 2023 Ford F series an iconic choice for truck lovers. These improvements will improve performance, functionality, safety, comfort, and convenience for drivers, making this lineup even more desirable than ever before. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as Ford continues to provide leading innovation in the pickup truck market.

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2023 BMW 330i M Sport Sedan Review

BMW’s 3 series has taken a hit in recent years. It no longer dominates the compact luxury sport sedan market. However, BMW is working to change this with the introduction of the 2023 330i M Sport Sedan.

The updates include restyling the exterior and cabin. The headlights have a more straightforward look, and the bumpers get an update. Redesigned wheels and grille give the sedan a sleeker and sporty appearance. Narrower vents and fewer buttons improve the cabin’s overall appearance and functionality. Adding to the interior improvements is a curved glass housing for the 12.3-inch cluster of digital gauges and 14.9-inch infotainment screen.

We’ll take a closer look at the 2023 BMW 330i M Sport Sedan in this review.

Performance

It’s difficult to find fault with the sedan’s performance, regardless of the packing. Entry-level models boast a 2.0-liter turbocharged 1-4 engine with 255 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque. For drivers who want a little more oomph, the next package up offers a 382 horsepower, six-cylinder M340i motor.

The sport package can go from 0 to 60mph in around 5.4 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission smoothly provides power to the rear wheels. You can easily make your way through traffic or tackle steep mountain roads. Electronically adjustable dampers handle curves with ease, and the steering is responsive without feeling loose.

When it comes to fuel economy, the 330i has an EPA rating of 25 mpg on city streets and 34 mpg on the highway.

Interior Improvements

The seats provide drivers and passengers with plenty of comfort and support, even on longer rides. At the same time, the Drive control remains unchanged. The knob is still in the same convenient location between the front seats. However, BMW is emphasizing its voice and touch-activated controls. The responsive 14.9-inch touchscreen accurately responds to voice commands and can also respond to less precise inquiries such as ‘Where is the closest movie theater.’

Even though the interior is advertised as business class, it’s not too stuffy or dour. A blend of textures that includes synthetic leather keeps the cabin interesting. Drivers not used to touch and voice activate controls may miss the standard knobs and buttons, but the touchscreen is a breeze to use thanks to its responsiveness. The lack of buttons also gives the interior a clean and elegant appearance.

Price

When you think of BMW, high prices typically come to mind. After all, you are paying for performance and luxury. You get both with the 2023 BMW 330i M Sport Sedan, along with a surprisingly affordable price on the base and M Sport packages.

Prices range around $43,295 for the standard package and increase by about $3,100 for the M Sport. Drivers that are looking for improved handling may want to pay around $1,200 extra for the Dynamic Handling package. However, if you are not planning on tackling steep hills and tight curves, the standard package should be more than enough to ensure you get a great ride on city and highway drives.

How To Negotiate Dealer Car Fees

Vehicle registration, title, and licensing fees are typically the same for car buyers. These fees can vary by zip code, but it affects every consumer. While these are considered state fees, you may run into additional charges. Dealership charges are frequently a way for the company to increase its revenue, but unwary consumers can end up paying for some charges twice.

These charges often relate to vehicle preparation, delivery, and destination fees. However, vehicle buyers may be able to avoid some of the dealer’s car fees.

Negotiate the Vehicle’s Price

Sometimes you cannot negotiate the fees associated with purchasing a vehicle. However, there’s often some wiggle room on the vehicle’s price. It’s not uncommon for dealerships to list their vehicles at a higher price. Most car dealers expect to do some haggling with interested buyers. The higher price only helps ensure the dealership isn’t losing money if they agree to drop the sticker price.

Before heading to the dealership, it’s a good idea to do some research. You can spend a few minutes online researching what other car buyers are paying in your area. You may also want to try and negotiate on offered services like oil changes or lower the cost of an accessories package. You may be able to upgrade the trim or infotainment system without paying extra.

Have Financing

You may not be able to avoid all dealer car fees, but you may be able to eliminate some. Instead of financing the vehicle through the dealership, get pre-approval from a bank or credit union. Car dealerships often charge fees for processing the loan application, a credit check, and even for filing insurance forms.

Eliminating these fees can make a significant difference in what you pay for the vehicle.

Ask About the Fees

Car dealership fees are not limited to one added charge to the vehicle’s price. Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson about their fees. You may find charges like destination, advertising, or even car lot fees. Most of these fees you should be able to negotiate.

For example, you may not want or need fees associated with washing the vehicle or filling up the gas tank.

Look at Online Dealerships

It’s almost impossible to miss the advertisements for online dealerships. Whether you are looking for an SUV or electric vehicle, you will find these and more online.

Most online dealerships even deliver the vehicle to your door. Some even take your trade-in, saving you a trip.

Other benefits of buying a car online include the lack of fees, though sales tax is usually still applicable. Some sites even have a neat feature that lets you set your financing. You will have to select from one offered by the online site, but it can make car buying a little more affordable.

If you are heading to the dealership for your next vehicle, don’t be afraid to turn down an offered deal. Sometimes, starting to walk away is one of the best ways to lower a vehicle’s price.

Car Trim Series – Honda

In an early post we talked about what a Trim Level was. Now lets examine some common Trim Packages in the biggest car seller in the US. Obviously we can’t do an exhaustive chronical of all the Trim Levels of all the car makers, although we list a lot in our Auto Makers Series, but we’ll get what we can of the popular selling cars of the day. As always, if we’ve forgotten anything, feel free to comment.

The first post in this series was about the Dodge Charger. Today lets take on Honda.

Honda Trim Options

The Honda CR-V has been a popular choice for commuters, mechanics, and rideshare drivers alike. With the release of the Honda CR-V 2023, customers are faced with new and exciting trim options. Each trim package offers unique features and benefits, but choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we will review the available Honda CR-V 2023 trim packages, so you can make an informed decision.

LX:

The LX is the base trim package and is the most affordable option. However, don’t let the low price tag fool you. The LX is equipped with many features that make it a great choice for commuters and rideshare drivers. The LX comes with a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic climate control. Additionally, the LX is equipped with Honda Sensing Safety Suite – a suite of safety features such as forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The LX trim package is a great option for those looking for a reliable, affordable, and safe vehicle.

EX:

The EX is the next step up from the LX and is perfect for those who want a few more amenities. The EX includes all the features of the LX, plus a few additional ones. The EX comes equipped with an upgraded infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX also includes a proximity keyless entry system, a sunroof, and heated front seats. Like the LX, the EX also includes the Honda Sensing Safety Suite. The EX is a great option for those who want a little more luxury and convenience.

EX-L:

The EX-L is the next trim package up and is perfect for those who want even more luxury. The EX-L includes all the features of the EX, plus a few more. The EX-L comes equipped with leather-trimmed seats, a power liftgate, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a passive entry system. Like the other trim packages, the EX-L also includes the Honda Sensing Safety Suite. The EX-L is a great option for those who want a luxurious driving experience.

Touring:

The Touring is the top-of-the-line trim package and includes all the features of the other trim packages, plus more. The Touring comes equipped with LED headlights, a navigation system, wireless phone charging, and a premium audio system. Additionally, the Touring includes Honda’s first-ever wireless device charging pad. Like the other trim packages, the Touring also includes the Honda Sensing Safety Suite. The Touring is a great option for those who want a truly luxurious driving experience.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right trim package for your Honda CR-V 2023 can be overwhelming. However, by understanding the available options, you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a commuter, mechanic, or rideshare driver, there’s a trim package that’s perfect for you. Consider your budget, your needs, and your driving style to determine the best options for you. Whichever trim package you choose, you’ll enjoy a safe, reliable, and comfortable driving experience.

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