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Fort Smith, AR, located along the Arkansas-Oklahoma state border, is a beautiful city with scenic views and breathtaking landscapes. Similarly, there are many parks to visit with your family and friends. The following is a list of amazing state parks near the city. more Arrowhead State Park Arrowhead State Park is in eastern Oklahoma, not far from Fort Smith, Arkansas. The state park is located on a peninsula that extends out onto Eufaula Lake, one of Oklahoma's largest lakes. Since its establishment in 1965, the park has been a popular tourist destination with various recreational activities. It is an ideal camping location with numerous camping grounds and RV camping sites. Enjoy a moonlight picnic dinner overlooking the beautiful Eufaula Lake with your significant other. You can also swim in the state park's swimming pool while your children play on the expansive playground. Alternatively, you can go horseback riding on the park's equestrian trails. It is also a popular angling destination, with many fish species, including crappie, largemouth bass, sand bass, and catfish. Lake Catherine State Park Take your kids on a road trip from Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Lake Catherine State Park, located in the pleasant Ouachita Mountain Region. With your 2015 Chrysler Town's Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity, you and your kids can sing along to your favorite songs from your phone throughout the journey. Lake Catherine State Park preserves over 2000 acres of wildflowers, waterfalls, pinewoods, beautiful creeks, and a scenic lakeshore. Your children will enjoy watching nature and may even spot a white-tailed deer. You can take your kids camping at Lake Catherine State Park and teach them how to pitch a tent. You can also stay in neatly-furnished cabins with modern amenities to enhance your stay. After an exciting day of hiking in the park, you can also enjoy a relaxing family dinner in a tranquil setting. If your kids get tired on the trail, they can ride a horse back to camp. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park is situated near Fort Smith, Arkansas, in the scenic valley of the Boston Mountain Range of the Ozark Mountains. Lake Fort Smith, located on the western side of the 1,400-acre Lake Fort Smith, is a hub for outdoor activities. The park has a 165-mile hiking trail in the Ozark Highlands for hikers. Other multi-purpose trails in the park are ideal for walking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Lake Fort Smith State Park has over 30 campsites, ten cabins, and a group lodge that can host up to 32 visitors. The park also has an operational marina with boat rentals, a large playground for children, a splash pad, a swimming pool, and a wading pool. The Lake Fort Smith State Park visitor center is extensive and includes a meeting room, beautiful exhibits, and an outdoor patio. The national parks listed above near Fort Smith provide a wide range of recreational opportunities for the entire family. Ensure your vehicle is adequately serviced as you plan your trip. Get in touch with Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith today to schedule an appointment.

If you want to get a glimpse of the wildlife that calls Fort Smith, AR home, birdwatching can be an excellent option. There are many opportunities to observe and identify bird species in the area, from songbirds to the migratory birds that make our region their home. Fort Smith has several popular hotspots, so you can meet new people while spending time outdoors. more 1. Trusten Holder State Wildlife Management Area There are numerous ways to experience Arkansas' diverse avifauna. You can go bird watching at one of the many designated wildlife management areas, such as Trusten Holder State Wildlife Management Area, just south of Fort Smith. If you're looking to see more than birds, you can also go canoeing, kayaking, or camping. This is one of the best areas to spot pelicans, including the endangered American white pelican. The largest bird on the continent, this species is often spotted around Arkansas lakes and ponds during the winter. While most pelicans migrate south in the fall, this population is unusually concentrated in Arkansas. You can often spot pelicans around Lake Conway and several other lakes throughout the state. 2. Lake Dardanelle If you are a nature lover, Lake Dardanelle is the perfect place to start your adventure. This lake is 34,300 acres of beauty and offers boating and fishing, picnic facilities, playgrounds, and dump stations. There are many bird species to see and listen to at this park, so bringing a camera is a good idea. 3. Ozark National Forest Another great place to go see birds in Fort Smith is the Ozark National Forest, which is a half-hour drive north of the city. This park is surrounded by wetlands and wooded areas and offers numerous vantage points to observe birds. The sound of birdsong can be heard from miles away, and you may even see a rare species of Bell's Vireo in your area. You might also spot a cerulean warbler or a wood thrush. 4. Crystal Springs Creek Fort Smith is home to hundreds of species of birds and many of these migrate through the area every year. If you are looking for a new place to take your family to enjoy bird watching, look no further than Lake Hamilton. Thousands of acres of trees provide vantage points for viewing the birds. You can hear the sounds of singing birds in the spring and summer months. Some of the species you can expect to see include: the Acadian flycatcher, Bell's Vireo, Painted Bunting, Wood Thrush, and Grasshopper Sparrow. The 2016 Jeep Compass Sport is the car that will take you safely around Fort Smith to see the many alluring birds. With its electronic stability control and roll stability control, you can have the confidence that you are safe driving around the city. Though this car was released a few years ago, it still packs a punch. Stop by Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith to see the variety of used cars we have in stock.

More and more people are deciding to buy used cars because it allows them to skip the cost of depreciation. The quality of pre-owned vehicles can be extremely high, especially if you buy them from a reputable dealership. Today, we'll examine some of the car safety features you might want to look out for when purchasing your next vehicle from us. more 1. Airbags If you crash, the airbag inflates and protects you and your passengers from serious injuries. Before you buy a used vehicle, find out whether there are any airbags and if so, which part of the body they are meant to protect. Front airbags generally prevent head injuries, while side airbags are meant to shield the driver or passenger from debris flying into the car and protect them from hitting the side of the vehicle. When you buy a car that includes airbags, it's important to consider that they can be counter-productive if you're not careful. You should always wear a seatbelt because you could get hurt by the airbag if you don't. Similarly, children under the age of 12 will need to sit in the back because the airbag could injure them. 2. Braking Assistance Some newer vehicles include anti-lock braking assistance, which prevents the wheels from locking when a driver panics and hits the brakes very hard. This can help them to avoid skidding, continue steering the car, and regain control over the situation. An anti-lock braking system can be extremely useful and prevent serious accidents. If your car has an ABS, you should find out whether it also includes brake assist, which helps you to deploy your brakes more quickly when you don't depress the pedal enough. 3. Electronic Stability Control Electronic stability control might have a different name depending on which manufacturer you choose, but your dealer can help you find cars with this system. It is a complex mechanism that helps you in difficult situations. For example, it can sense when you are oversteering or understeering, and it activates the brakes one wheel at a time. As a result, you can avoid getting stuck on a curb, accidentally leaving the road, or even rolling over. 4. Good Seatbelts and Headrests Every car currently on the market has headrests and seatbelts, but not all of them were created equal. You should choose a vehicle that has a foam cushion in the headrest, which can protect you during an accident. Similarly, seatbelts should have energy management features, which prevent them from injuring passengers' ribs during a collision. If possible, you should also get seatbelts with adjustable upper belts that can accommodate a wide variety of people. Just because a vehicle isn't brand-new doesn't mean it can't be safe. At the dealership, we sell many cars that have excellent safety features such as braking assistance, electronic stability control, and airbags. Contact us now at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and ask to speak to one of our salespeople. They will be more than happy to show you our current inventory and explain the safety features of each car.

When you're researching the best used cars, you might focus on traditional autos. If so, you may be overlooking one of the best long-term money-savers on the market: the hybrid car. Consider these top hybrid picks if you're on the hunt for a reliable used vehicle. more The Hybrid Car: 4 of the Best Used Cars to Buy 1. Ford Fusion Hybrid You won't find many better deals than a 2010-era offering of the popular Fusion Hybrid. You can score this reliable mid-sizer for around $7,000: a best-buy bargain. The car has won numerous awards from major reviewers, and with its durable features you'll understand why. For an older hybrid model, the fuel economy's still top-notch at over 40 miles per gallon. Early reviews lauded this family sedan for its spacious interior that could accommodate large groups, for its great handling that rivaled the performance of its gasoline counterpart, and for its impressive roster of safety add-ons. Infotainment and comfort-minded features were also praise-worthy, from the heated front seats to the Blue Tooth and iPod connectivity. 2. Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In As a plug-in hybrid, this versatile beauty gives you more opportunity to drive all-electric, with around 30 miles of range on the battery alone. When the powerful gas engine kicks in as well, you can up that number to a 630-plus mile range. The fuel efficiency you gain easily tops many gas-only models, logging in at over 50 miles per gallon. Intuitive regenerative braking bolsters this efficiency even more. For your investment, you'll typically get a full roster of driver assist and infotainment features that stand the test of time. Items of note on most older models include Highway Driving Assist, touchscreen navigation, blind spot collision warning, and premium audio. 3. Toyota Camry Hybrid Since 2007, one of the nation's most popular cars has established a strong niche in the hybrid market. Even the earliest versions of this sedan earned rave reviews from satisfied drivers. Only subtle differences distinguished the electric motor and gas engine combo from its gas-only sibling. A few futuristic touches such as a striking center stack and ultra-quiet cabin helped Toyota revolutionize the hybrid industry and the car industry as a whole. Long-time drivers have remained satisfied with the early models' 40 miles-per-gallon fuel efficiency, roominess, and ever-expanding safety features. And since maintenance is a main concern of used car buyers, you can rest assured with this brand's high reliability rankings and minimal breakdown risks. 4. Chevy Impala Hybrid As far as large sedans go, faithful customers have fallen in love with the many generations of the iconic Chevrolet Impala. Starting around 2014, the hybrid Impala seriously upped its design game with a sleeker, more stylized exterior along with a welcome infusion of tech faves for the interior. The 2.4-liter mild hybrid eAssist engine nets a respectable 35 miles per gallon in highway conditions. The six-speed automatic transmission helps ensure steady performance and handling. Find a reliable used or new car with a dealership you trust. Visit Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and do business with caring, qualified professionals that prioritize superior customer service every step of the way. Image via Pixabay

A burned-out headlight can be a frustrating inconvenience, but it can also be seriously dangerous. Without proper lighting during an evening drive or through a rough thunderstorm, you can be involved in an accident that possibly could have been prevented just by installing new headlights. Strong visibility is essential to safe driving, and knowing the signs of malfunctioning headlights can keep you from finding yourself in a dangerous situation. more Signs That You Need New Headlights No Lights The clearest sign that your headlights need immediate replacement is if they won't illuminate at all. Whether they are manual or automatic, your lights should always have the capability of turning on when the ignition is engaged. Broken headlights must be replaced as soon as possible to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. Malfunctioning headlights may also result in a traffic ticket, as working lights are required by law. Sometimes one headlight will burn out before the other, which can be difficult to notice as your path will just be slightly less illuminated, but still lighted nonetheless. Headlights are typically replaced in pairs because if one light is out then the other is likely to go very soon. Flickering Lights It can be very alarming to be driving on the road when your headlights suddenly begin to flicker. While this may not cause you to panic, it is certainly an urgent sign that the bulbs of your headlights are about to die completely. Flickering is a good indicator that the filament of the bulb is damaged or excessively worn. Similar to how a lightbulb in your home may flicker when it ages, your headlight bulbs can too. If this flickering is ignored then you may end up with completely burnt-out bulbs. Flickering can also be an indicator that your headlight bulbs have a faulty connection, which needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Dimming Lights Properly functioning headlight bulbs are bright and clear, much like any light bulb you use in your home. As your vehicle ages, you may find that the clear plastic lens protecting the bulb has become scratched or cloudy with wear. This can affect how much light is being emitted by the headlights but does not necessarily indicate a problem with the bulb itself. Regularly cleaning these lenses, such as with a car wash, can help prevent this build-up, keeping your visibility high. Headlights do, however, slowly dim as they age, so if your lenses are clear and you are experiencing dimmer light emittance, then it's time to change out the bulbs. Don't wait until it becomes difficult to see in front of you on the street or highway to get them fixed. Come see us today at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith if you have a headlight on your vehicle that you aren't sure about. We are happy to service your vehicle and test your lights to make sure they won't fail on you anytime soon. Our experienced technicians have the training and equipment to keep your vehicle in top shape. Image via Pixabay

Farmers' markets are one of the best places to visit over the weekend for top-notch produce, artisan goods, freshly baked goods, plants, flowers, and many unique items. When you drive through Fort Smith, AR, you'll find fantastic handmade crafts, local performers, artists, and quality foods for your home. more 3 Favorite Farmers' Markets to Visit Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Fort Smith Farmers Market Fort Smith Farmers' Market is one of the best places to find locally-grown produce, meats, eggs, artisan goods, baked items, and one-of-a-kind crafts. You'll love the exceptional collection of art and handmade goods from nearby businesses and artisans. This market initially began in 2003 and is open every Saturday and Wednesday from early morning to noon. You can find this incredible market in downtown Fort Smith, in the town's historic district. When you visit the Fort Smith market, it's the perfect place to bring the family to enjoy the live entertainment, including musicians and live performers. There are up to 90 vendors available every week that feature a wide variety of products and businesses that are all locally owned and operated. 2. Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market If you're a fan of local arts and crafts, you'll want to plan a visit to Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market. This fabulous marketplace features local vendors, local farmers, crafts, live music, and excellent activities for kids. You'll see many great events at this market, such as yoga classes, art projects, and interactive performances that are perfect for the whole family. You'll also enjoy the live demos, entertainment themes, and food trucks. You'll find many notable attractions near Chaffee Crossing Farmers & Artisans Market, including the Museum of Chaffee Historical, the Chaffee Barbershop Museum, an RV park, microbrewery, winery, and lots of local shops and businesses. 3. Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair Arkansas-Oklahoma State Fair is a seasonal event that features an incredible number of vendors, delicious food, drinks, and family events. This event includes a wonderful farmer's market highlighting the best quality in locally-grown and raised food, baked goods, and tasty treats, including cotton candy, nachos, and barbecue sandwiches. This event is fully accessible for everyone, with nearby accommodations, restaurants, and lots of parking space available. When you visit the state fair, you can easily spend the day exploring all the vendors, live events, midway rides, and games with the family. This event is a popular place to enjoy in the late summer. This popular seasonal market offers access to outstanding local performances, competitions, and exposure for local businesses and artists showcasing their products and services at the fair. It's the ideal place to plan a visit on your next family road trip. Fort Smith features a great variety of local farmers, artisans, crafts, produce, and small businesses at local markets, whether you visit during a specific season or year-round. Come see us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith and discover the fantastic showroom deals and incredible inventory on your next drive through town. We offer excellent prices and financing plans for every budget and lifestyle. Image via Pixabay

You need a new vehicle, but deciding which car to purchase is daunting, especially when looking for a "new-to-you" or pre-owned vehicle. There are at least 42 vehicle brands sold in the United States, and, as of 2019, there were 257 existing models offered on the market. While there are hundreds of cars for sale, a used Honda is one of the best purchases you can make. more 4 Qualities That Make a Used Honda a Great Buy 1. Awards When looking for a used vehicle, people often recommend Honda models. This is for their reliability. Honda vehicles have scored well in studies by J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for decades. In addition, Honda models have received the J.D. Power Performance Award and many others going back to the year 2002. These various awards suggest that these vehicles are highly reliable, making them an excellent choice for a used car. 2. Longevity Many Honda models have a lot of life and miles left in them; this includes vehicles that have already covered 100,000 miles or more. A Honda can last 15-20 years, and sometimes even more. For example, the Honda Civic and Accord can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles when properly cared for. The Civic, Accord, and Odyssey are among the longest-lasting cars on the market today. Across all models, the average Honda vehicle will get roughly 200,000 miles when properly cared for. This means it's essential to maintain these vehicles according to the owner's manual. If you ensure that these vehicles get routine maintenance and proper care, they will drive for far longer than you expected. 3. Reliability Hondas are incredibly reliable. As a result, these vehicles break down less frequently than other competitors. Additionally, when these vehicles do break down, the issues tend to be less severe. This means fewer trips to the auto shop and a smaller bill when you leave. The average yearly repair cost for a Honda is $428 compared to the $652 annual average repair cost for other vehicles. 4. Resale Value Honda models hold their value better than their competitors. This is an excellent indicator that vehicle owners agree with Honda's awards. According to Consumer Reports, the Honda CRV, Civic, and Accord are among three of the topmost reliable cars. In 2019, Kelley Blue Book awarded them Best Resale Value among compact and mid-size cars. If you find a Honda with 100,00 miles or so, the vehicle usually has plenty of life left. You can drive it for another 100,000 miles, and a Honda will still have a fantastic resale value compared to other vehicles with similar age and mileage. While there are outliers to every statistic, Honda makes vehicles that are heavily awarded, long-lasting, reliable, and have excellent resale value. If you are looking to purchase a pre-owned vehicle, then you should heavily consider purchasing a pre-owned Honda. Come visit us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith to check out our inventory of pre-owned vehicles today. Image via Pixabay

Do you know where to go for a picnic in and around Fort Smith, AR? There are plenty of beautiful spots to enjoy the great outdoors without having to travel too far. Below, we've compiled some of our favorite picnic spots. Hopefully, one of them will be perfect for your next outing. more 8 Favorite Local Picnic Spots in and Around Fort Smith, AR Lake Atalanta Lake Atalanta is the perfect spot for a relaxing day. The green spaces are vast and filled with lots of shade, while serene views await you around every corner. They have covered pavilions where one can relax. There's also an expansive grassy area to spread out on if you want some fresh air. Fort Smith Park Fort Smith Park is a great place to go picnicking, kayaking, and swimming. The boat launch makes it easy for people who want the adventure of getting out on the water while others enjoy relaxing by the riverside covered pavilion with picnic tables. Devil's Den State Park Devil's Den State Park is the perfect place for a picnic. The views are breathtaking and water activities vary from boating and fishing to swimming in its beautiful lake with plenty of space available. Ross Pendergraft Park Ross Pendergraft Park is a public park in downtown Fort Smith. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and can be rented for events or just sitting out under the trees with friends on warm days. The park has clean restrooms and plenty of parking spaces. Shores Lake Shores Lake is a popular destination for picnicking and hiking. The 82-acre lake features hardwood forests and magnificent waterfalls, as well as plenty of places to picnic along the way. You can hike up a loop trail and enjoy incredible views from high above ground level. Lake Fort Smith State Park Lake Fort Smith State Park sits on the banks of a beautiful lake with breathtaking views. Set up your picnic at one of its many picnic sites, then spend more hours taking it all in. You can set up a tent and stargaze at night. Creekmore Park Creekmore Park is a great picnic site in the heart of downtown Fort Smith, right next door to the main branch library. If you're into golf, there's a mini-golf course in Creekmore Park. There's something for everyone at this incredible park. Lake Fayetteville Lake Fayetteville offers a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic with family and friends. There are plenty of activities for all ages. You can bike on winding paths through green spaces and scenic areas that offer stunning views. A romantic stroll around 5.5 miles worth of nature trails will leave you feeling refreshed. You now have an idea of where to go picnicking. You can start exploring these locales to determine which suits you best. While you're on it, stop by Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and check our latest inventory. Our dealership has just the perfect used vehicle for you and our prices are the best. Image via Pixabay

Extracurricular activities, grocery runs, road trip vacations: your family's busy. You need a ride to fit your busy lifestyle. With a family, you're also likely on a budget. Read on to discover the best-used cars in the running to become your next and best family car. more 5 Best Family Car Picks for Used Cars 1. Chrysler Pacifica Few autos are more reliable for family hauling than the minivan. The Chrysler Pacifica ranks top of its class. Three rows of seats provide you plenty of room to pack family members in a wide and comfortable space that won't make you feel like a can of sardines. If you don't need all that extra room, you can fold down both your second and third rows of seats to stow some other precious cargo for family outings. Families can be messy, so the built-in vacuum feature may just be a godsend for you. And to keep the “are we there yet?” and “I'm bored” chants at bay, take advantage of that theatre-style rear entertainment system. Better yet, you're teaching your family eco-consciousness by taking advantage of the rising-in-popularity hybrid style of automobile. 2. Honda Accord This mid-sizer has earned accolades for being a top pick for families and a bargain buy. The safety features make this car a great option for ensuring all your loved ones' security when you're on the road. The comprehensive safety package for the Accord includes front automatic emergency braking, rear-seat alerts, and even teen driver control for that burgeoning driver in your family. Wi-fi and USB ports will keep everyone connected and entertained. And for a mid-sized car, the comfort and cargo space are unparalleled. 3. Lincoln Navigator Do you want a luxury SUV for those family outings? If so, the Navigator is calling your name. A powerful durable 450-horsepower engine is made for the long haul. Those indulgent and potentially reclining seats give you and all your passengers legroom to spare. You'll also get all the tech bells and whistles like a ten-inch entertainment display. If you want to drown out the noise, though, and plug into some serenity (what family head doesn't?), simply turn on the noise-cancelling feature. And with an 8,300-pound towing capacity, take that family boat or other luxury along for the good times. 4. Ram 1500 Pickup trucks are made for hauling, but this reliable and powerful beauty can haul your family without sacrificing their comfort. That coil-spring rear suspension exclusive to the Ram makes the ride just as comfy and secure as that luxurious interior full of room to spare. With nearly 12,000 pounds of towing capacity, you can literally hitch your second home to the back of this gentle beast. And navigate the roadways and even packed parking spots with confidence via handy features like a rear backup camera and blind-spot monitoring. 5. Kia Sorento Optional captain's chairs and multiple rows of seating will help you keep the smallest members of your family safe and secure. You can fit up to three booster seats in this pick that's also packed with safety must-haves such as automatic high beams and lane assist. Plus, the price can't be beat for its class. Make your next big family investment matter. Visit Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and check out our inventory of affordable, family-friendly used automobiles. Image via Pixabay

Situated on the Arkansas-Oklahoma state border, Fort Smith, AR is an important location in the military and frontier history of the US. The Wild West and civil war history is maintained here. Read on to discover the best museums to visit while in town. more 6 of the Best Museums to Visit Near Fort Smith, AR 1. National Historic Site So much has happened here throughout the years, and here you can retrace the footsteps of the past. Belle Point offers a delightful view of the Arkansas and Poteau rivers and a chance to see the foundations of the first Fort Smith. The commissary is the oldest building and has mind-blowing exhibits of the jail cells and a replica of the gallows where many outlaws met their end. 2. Museum of History Proudly preserving and honoring the many contributions of local citizens to the area and the country, this museum is not to be missed. The many vintage vehicles and antique items on display here are kept in immaculate condition, each one with a memorable and fascinating story attached. Learn all about the engrossing exploits of local legends like “Hanging Judge” Parker and General Darby. Grab a sundae or ice cream soda from the old soda fountain in the working 1920s pharmacy exhibit. 3. Regional Art Museum There is a lot to love about this place; the quirky exterior with vibrant flower beds and cool sculptures, the effortless parking, warm friendly staff, and best of all, the free entry. The five galleries here display works from artists like Raee Dunn, Jeff Willard, and Patrick Angus. The exhibits change regularly meaning there is always something new and interesting to enjoy. The “touch gallery” is a novel inclusion to a museum, as you can feel all the exhibits! 4. Trolley Museum Enjoy a history lesson on the move in a refurbished trolley! The enthusiastic and knowledgeable conductor will regale you with facts about the landmarks that you pass on the way round this ¾ mile track. The Fall Tractor show is held here annually, showcasing historical trains, trolleys, tractors, and automobiles. 5. Chaffee Barbershop Museum Situated in Fort Chaffee Joint Manoeuvre Training center, this once active barbershop is the site of one of the most famous haircuts in history. In March 1958, Elvis Presley left his world-famous sideburns on the barbershop floor as he received his first military haircut as part of his induction into the Army. Stuffed full of military memorabilia, this is a must-visit to learn about the history of the Fort and Elvis' time here. 6. Miss Laura's Visitor Center From the original seven houses which comprised the Old West red light district, Miss Laura's is the only one still standing. This is the only former brothel ever to be added to the National Register of Historic Places and it has been restored to its original splendor. The informative and entertaining free tour will take you back in time as you learn about a captivating part of American history. This may well be the most unusual visitor center you ever enter. Come to Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith and check out our spectacular September specials. Image via Pixabay

When you opt to buy a used car, you can save a lot of money and access a vehicle that might otherwise be out of reach. Unless you have a large amount of cash available, you'll be looking for used car financing in your local area. Let's examine some facts and tips that can help you make the best decision possible. more 4 Things to Know About Used Car Financing 1. It's Cheaper than New Car Financing In general, financing a used vehicle is cheaper than a new vehicle because the total purchase price of the car is lower. On average, Americans spend $575 per month on a new car and $430 on a used one. The exact amount of your payment will depend on the type of car you buy and the terms of your loan, but there is a lot of potential for saving money by opting for a used vehicle. 2. You Can Get Great Rates at Your Dealership Getting financing doesn't have to be a hassle because you can get great rates at your local dealership. To get started, you can browse through the information online. If you have a good or average credit score, you can also fill out the pre-approval form on the website, which can speed up your purchase. People with lower credit scores or no credit history might benefit from speaking to a member of the sales team in person. We believe in providing everyone with great options, so you'll be able to find an excellent rate no matter what. 3. You Can Use Several Strategies to Lower Your Payments There are a lot of different things you can do to make sure you get the lowest monthly payment possible. One of the easiest is to trade in your old car and put up a down payment. By paying for part of your new car upfront, you automatically lower your payment, but you also demonstrate that you are good with money and a reliable buyer. That way, your dealership might be able to offer you a better interest rate. Another great way to reduce the amount of interest you pay is to shorten the duration of your loan. While this may make your monthly payment higher, it will reduce the overall amount you pay for your car. 4. Use Timing and Communication to Your Advantage Just like most businesses, dealerships have seasons that are busier than others. If you're looking for a particularly good rate and your purchase isn't urgent, you could wait until the slow season and potentially get a better rate. The easiest way to achieve this is to build up a relationship with your local dealership. Speak to the customer service team about what you're looking for and the rate you're hoping to get. They will be able to tell you the best time to buy. Financing your used car doesn't have to be a hassle if you get in touch with your local dealership. What's more, you can reduce the total amount you pay by providing your lender with a down payment and shortening the term of your loan. Get in touch with us at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith to find out more and get started on your used car buying journey.

If you're ready for a fishing trip near Fort Smith, AR, there are plenty of fantastic lakes and places to find your next big catch. Whether you're looking to fish over a weekend or just in the afternoon, there are great fishing spots in and around the area. more 7 Great Fishing Spots Near Fort Smith, AR 1. Torraine Lake This excellent spot near town is ideal for nature lovers and anglers. Torraine Lake features fantastic scenery, biking trails, and lots of great areas to explore. It's a great place to relax while you fish by the lake. 2. Carol Ann Cross Park If you're looking for a recreational space to enjoy a day out with the family, you'll love Carol Ann Cross Park. This space offers a pond for fishing, hiking trails, a playground for the kids, and a pavilion for picnics with restrooms. It's a fantastic park to visit over the weekend or plan your next party or family event. 3. Lee Creek Park Lee Creek Park is situated along the Arkansas River and offers over 100 acres of spectacular outdoor space. This park is part of Van Buren's system of recreation areas and one of the largest in the region. It's an ideal place for canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and boating. 4. AGFC River Valley Nature Center This wonderful nature center offers many activities for nature enthusiasts, including hiking, birdwatching, and observing wildlife. You can enjoy a hike along the recreational center's trails to Wells Lake, where you can fish and savor the quiet, serene atmosphere of the park. All areas are well marked, so you can easily explore the lake, trails, and forests during your visit. 5. Mansfield Lake Mansfield Lake is considered a hidden gem by many locals and visitors to the area. You'll find this lake in Sebastian County, just one mile from town, and some great fishing. It's a serene place to enjoy a quiet afternoon, and there are picnic areas with a pavilion where you can plan a picnic with friends or family. 6. Truman Baker Lake Truman Baker Lake is one of the top places for fishing in the area. You'll discover a wide variety of fish, including sunfish, catfish, warmouth, bowfin, largemouth bass, bullhead, and more. It's a great spot for all levels of fishing, from beginner to experienced. This lake is just a short drive from The Pines, AR, and two miles from Waldron. 7. Sugar Loaf Lake If you're in search of great fishing and spectacular scenery, you'll love the photogenic landscapes of Sugar Loaf Lake. It's a fantastic spot to visit for a few hours, and there are nearby campsites and boating ramps available if you want to stay longer. This lake is the perfect spot to take photos and explore the natural beauty of the area. There are many terrific spots to go fishing in and around Fort Smith, whether it's a new skill or you're an experienced angler. Visit us at Rath Auto Resources on your next drive to town and check out our amazing inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles.