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Pre-owned Ford vehicles have a well-deserved reputation for reliability. These five crowd-pleasing picks will stand the test of time. more 5 Pre-Owned Ford Models for Proven Durability 1. 2022 Escape The 2022 Escape earned a Great score for quality and reliability from JD Power and Associates. This practical crossover provides up to 30 combined city and highway miles per gallon, with seating for up to five passengers. You'll get 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque with the base model, which also comes with an eight-speed automatic and front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The 2022 Escape has a standard 4.2-inch display screen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a six-speaker stereo. 2. 2020 F-150 Consider the F-150 for a capable, modern heavy-duty pickup. The 2020 model comes with a standard 290-hp V6 engine that provides 265 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain includes a six-speed automatic transmission. You can also stay connected on the go with a standard Wi-Fi hotspot. The base trim includes wired trailer connections and advanced towing features such as trailer sway control. The F-150 gets up to 22 combined city and highway miles per gallon. 3. 2021 Bronco Sport Like the Escape, the 2021 Bronco Sport received a Great reliability score from JD Power. This rugged off-roading crossover is the perfect adventure vehicle. The Bronco Sport has seating for up to five. The powertrain offers 181 hp and 190 pound-feet of torque, with standard four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic. The base model of the 2021 Bronco Sport has an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This compact SUV also comes with standard roof rails. 4. 2022 Edge The 2022 Ford Edge gives you an exceptional midsize SUV value. It features seating for five and standard all-wheel drive with a potent turbo-four that delivers 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The base trim showcases a 12-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, a six-speaker stereo, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Standard driver assistance tech includes forward collision mitigation and rear cross-traffic alert. You'll appreciate the convenience of standard keyless access with push-button start. 5. 2021 Explorer Step up to the three-row Explorer if you need seating for up to seven and generous cargo space. This midsize SUV gives you 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, with rear-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2021 model has tons of family-friendly features like a standard power liftgate, split-folding seats, and three-zone automatic climate control. You'll also enjoy standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Safety features include blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assistance. Explore these outstanding used Ford models and many other great pre-owned options today. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AK t o test drive your top choices now.

You don't have to break the bank to enjoy a premium car. Buying any of the following used Mazda cars opens the doors to the brand's iconic style, performance, and reliability at a much more affordable price. Find Style and Efficiency in These Reliable 5 Used Mazda Models CX-9 (2016 and Later) If you're hunting for a used three-row SUV with some personality, the 2016-and-up Mazda CX-9 is a great place to start. That year marked a full redesign, ditching the old look and V6 engine for the sleek styling we now expect from the brand, a noticeably nicer interior, and a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The result is a well-rounded, segment-leading family hauler. Owner satisfaction and reliability ratings from the industry's top sources support the CX-9's capability. It consistently scored well in areas like build quality and long-term dependability. For instance, JD Power gave the 2022 CX-9 an 81 out of 100 in its Quality and Reliability category, placing it among the more trustworthy options in the mid-size SUV class. CX-5 (2016 and Later) Like the CX-9, the CX-5 got a major refresh in 2016. Mazda doubled down on making the CX-5 feel more upscale than the average compact SUV, and the strong sales record reflects that. So, if you're eyeing one, know it's earned its stripes by doing the basics well. The 2022 model of this SUV scored a solid 4.5 out of five from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) experts. CX-50 (2023 and Later) Compared to the CX-5, the CX-50 is larger and leans into active and outdoor lifestyles. If you're after a compact SUV that can handle a bit of off-road action, this one's definitely worth a look. The reviews for the CX-50 have been solid. The 2023 model was awarded a Top Safety Pick+ badge by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, while the 2024 model made it onto the Car & Driver Editor's Choice list. CX-3 (2016-2021) The CX-3 first hit the U.S. market in 2016, stepping in as Mazda's replacement for the Mazda2. The automaker put a lot of thought into the design, ensuring the CX-3 not only filled the gap but also delivered a safer, more refined drive. With each passing model year, Mazda added a bit of polish and improved features, turning this subcompact into a standout choice in the segment. CX-30 (2020 and Later) Mazda introduced the CX-30 in 2021 as a roomier, more powerful replacement of the CX-3. Since then, the car has earned a spot on the Car and Driver Editor's Choice list multiple times, received an 82 out of 100 Reliability score from JD Power, and picked a stellar 4.7/5 expert review from KBB. If you're ready to test drive any of these models, contact Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

Looking for a pre-owned Hyundai? Maybe you'd like a giant Palisade, so you can take the whole family on vacation and comfort; or maybe the Santa Fe is a tempting option, with its compact efficiency for getting the family around in crowded urban areas. Whatever model you're thinking about, Hyundai is a great choice. Why Choose a Pre-Owned Hyundai? More for Lower Cost There's no need to empty your wallet to get a new car when you can get a nearly new one at a huge discount. Cars depreciate enormously the moment they're first driven off the lot and throughout their first and second years of life. After that, depreciation rates drop off spectacularly. It's a smart money move to let somebody else take that depreciation hit and pick up a used car that's in like-new condition with only a few miles on it and lots of years of service left. Hyundai has one of the best warranties in the business, which tells you something about how confident they are in the longevity of their vehicles. Access the Latest Proven Features Every new car comes with flashy tech, but how do you know if the newest offerings are actually ones you want, or even ones that work well? Beyond that, carmakers love to force you into buying a higher trim to access the really cool high-end tech. When you buy used, you have the opportunity to research the tech that comes with the vehicle you're looking at and find out if it's proven. You also can choose a higher trim than you might be able to afford if you bought new, which can unlock some of that new tech for you. But more than that, Hyundai has always taken a different approach to tech. They offer a generous selection of high-end tech and comfort features across the board on all models. More Choice Because of the cost of a new car, you're likely limited by budget. When you start looking at used vehicles, that budget expands enormously. Instead of having to settle for something less than you want (or even maybe that you need), when you buy used, you can choose from many model years and trims. It's a lot easier to find one that's fully loaded but still fits your budget. Hyundai is one of the best names to look for when you're searching the used vehicle market. At Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, we always have plenty of Hyundai models to choose from, and new ones come in all the time. Reach out to us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AK today to discover your options for an affordable pre-owned option from Hyundai.

Image via BMW Used luxury vehicles provide exceptional performance and style without stretching your budget. Overwhelmed by your options? Our team here at Rath Auto Resources is here to help kickstart your search with these premium pre-owned selections. more 3 Used Luxury Vehicles That Offer Quality at an Affordable Price 1. 2019 BMW 7 Series The 7 Series is a spacious, stylish large sedan with an athletic 320-horsepower base engine and standard adaptive air suspension. Higher trims have powertrain options that include a potent V12 and a plug-in hybrid. This model features a standard Harman Kardon audio system, a touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation, and desirable comfort features such as power-adjustable heated front seats. You'll also have two front-seat USB ports and Bluetooth. The 7 Series gives you more than 18 cubic feet of trunk space, which is generous for a luxury car. It also incorporates standard driver assistance tech such as pedestrian detection and low-speed automatic emergency braking. The 2019 7 Series lineup earned an above-average predicted reliability rating from JD Power and Associates. 2. 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS 550 Consider the GLS 550 for a powerful SUV that can easily accommodate up to eight people. The GLS-Class lineup was redesigned for 2017 and includes a new 8-inch infotainment screen with a user-friendly touchpad controller. The high-end 550 trim provides leather upholstery and multi-contoured sport seats with ventilation, heat, and massage. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, a driver drowsiness monitor, LED headlights with automatic high beams, and a forward collision mitigation system with automatic braking. The 550 has 16 cubic feet of cargo space in the rear, which expands to nearly 94 cubic feet when you fold down the second and third rows. The Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class was ranked 2017's top large luxury SUV by US News and World Report and has an outstanding JD Power Predicted Reliability rating. 3. 2023 Land Rover Defender S The Land Rover Defender is a rare luxury vehicle that can handle truly tough terrain. This two-door model features a turbo-four that gets 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes with a four-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a two-speed transfer case. A standard water depth sensor provides key data if you decide to ford a stream with your Defender. The interior includes dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a 10-speaker Meridian audio system with satellite and HD radio, and a large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Driver assistance tech in the Defender includes trailer sway control and traffic sign recognition. The base trim seats five, but some models in the 2023 lineup seat up to eight passengers. Used luxury models give you unmatched value and time-tested reliability. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR to browse our impressive inventory and bring home your perfect match today.

Image via Honda Pre-owned Honda models provide outstanding quality, reliability, and value. Start your search with this list of our top five used Honda options. more 5 of the Most Reliable Pre-Owned Honda Models You Can Buy 1. 2017 Civic It's impossible to go wrong with this classic compact car. The 2017 Honda Civic has a spacious interior and offers a wide range of trims, including performance-focused models like the Si. This model year is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. You'll be impressed by the high quality of the cabin and the refined, driver-centered handling, both factors that make this used Civic an exceptional value. It was a Car and Driver Editor's Choice pick in 2017. 2. 2020 Odyssey Another Car and Driver Editor's Choice award winner, the 2020 Odyssey gives you seating for up to eight and flexible cabin and cargo configurations. This minivan is equipped with a potent 280-hp V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. It also earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many models come with modern tech such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 3. 2016 CR-V The CR-V was named one of the best used SUVs of 2016 by Edmunds.com. This compact crossover features ample room for up to five along with loads of cargo space. The 2016 CR-V has a 185-horsepower engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment includes a rearview camera, side curtain airbags, and antilock brakes. The CR-V gives you more than 37 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. 4. 2014 Accord When you drive the Accord, you'll see why it's been a best-selling midsize sedan for generations. This model year is offered as either a sedan or a coupe. Look for a 2014 Accord with the optional V6 to enjoy 278 horsepower with a zero-to-60 time of just over 6 seconds. Every model comes with a rearview camera, and higher trims add active driver assistance tech like lane keep assist. The Accord earned a five-star NHTSA crash-test rating in 2014. 5. 2017 Fit The versatile Fit earned a place on the Car and Driver Editor's Choice list in 2017. It's a subcompact hatchback with competitive interior space and smart features like a flat-folding front passenger seat. The rear seat also folds down to create 53 cubic feet of cargo space. Most models of the 2017 Fit include a standard 7-inch infotainment touchscreen. It also received the highest available five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA. Our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect used Honda car, truck, or SUV for your needs. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR now to test drive your next trustworthy vehicle.

Image via Nissan A pre-owned Nissan might not be your first choice when you're in the market for a used vehicle. The following used Nissan features and specs, however, may give you a change of heart. The safety, technology, affordability, value, and availability of used Nissans make them suitable options for many. more Used Nissan Features and Specs: Navigating the Many Reliable Features of a Pre-owned Nissan Great Safety Features Due to the possibility of human error, you can never go wrong with having safety features on a vehicle. Many older Nissans are equipped with stability control, blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and traffic sign recognition. The newer the model, the more safety tech you'll get. Cutting-Edge Technology What's driving without a little bit of fun? Even older Nissan models often spoil us with modern technology features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an integrated infotainment tablet, a panoramic sunroof, a built-in navigation system, or even an e-pedal for single-pedal driving. These technology features sometimes found in used Nissan models bring comfort, excitement, and convenience to drivers. Affordable to Maintain Not only are previously owned Nissans affordable to buy, but they also don't require a lot of money to maintain. Unlike many newer, fancy vehicles out there, Nissan keeps maintenance simple with general oil changes, brake jobs, and tire rotations without the need for Nissan-specific equipment or a certain expert. What is more, Nissan parts are pretty standard, and in turn, easy to come by and average in cost. Overall Value While all cars depreciate in monetary value, some aging vehicles remain valuable, are highly respected, and are generally sought after among used vehicle buyers. Used Nissans meet those criteria. Due to their longevity and great reputation, buyers typically get more value out of their used Nissan than what they spend on it initially. This said, a used Nissan is not just a short-term investment but also a long-term one as well. Wide Selection Available One issue pre-owned car buyers may come across is the lack of options available if they have a particular brand of car in mind. Fortunately, when it comes to used Nissans, there are a variety of models from all different years readily available on the market. Part of this is due to the fact that Nissans are long-lasting and highly durable, leading long-time owners to sell their Nissan instead of scrapping it. From various protective features to cost-efficient maintenance, used Nissan vehicles fit the criteria for many pre-owned car seekers. Along with modern technological features, a wide range of used models to pick from, and great overall value, it's evident that older Nissans are golden investments. Interested in finding a used Nissan suitable for you? Reach out to Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR for assistance.

Image via Hyundai If you're looking at getting a used Hyundai, you're making a smart choice. There are great reasons to choose pre-owned vehicles over new ones, and Hyundai in particular offers some important advantages. more Smart Spending: The Economic Advantages of a Used Hyundai Transferrable Warranty One of the great things about Hyundai, which is famous for having "America's best warranty," is that their warranty is transferable. Even better, you don't have to jump through any hoops to get that transfer. The warranty follows the VIN of the vehicle rather than the owner personally. Once the original owner moves on, and so long as the vehicle is still within its original 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, the subsequent buyer gets a five-year/60,000-mile warranty. Lower Taxes Taxes are assessed based on the value of the vehicle, so used vehicles tend to have lower tax. And here in Arkansas, taxes are even lower for used vehicles if you spend less than $10,000 on them. Lower Insurance Rates When you buy used, you will frequently benefit from a lower insurance rate. A study done in 2022 showed that the average insurance rate for a brand-new vehicle that year was $2,018 per year, while those driving a used vehicle from 2018 only paid $1,797. Some of this will depend on the precise model you buy as well as what safety features it has, but the good news is that Hyundai puts a lot of great safety features on their vehicle vehicles! Afford More Perks When you're looking at a brand-new car, you've probably had the experience of looking at the higher trims and realizing that you'd love to get some of those bells and whistles but simply can't afford it. When you buy used, you can often afford to get a higher trim vehicle that still costs less than the base trim of a brand new one. This gives you access to all kinds of specialty features you might not otherwise be able to afford. Don't Absorb the Depreciation Most of us know that the minute you drive a new car off the lot, it loses something like 10% of its value. In other words, even if you were to turn around immediately and take it back, it wouldn't be worth what you paid for it. Early depreciation is ridiculously steep with motor vehicles, and those first two years are the worst. However, once those first years are over, depreciation slows enormously. When you buy used, you let somebody else deal with the depreciation while you still get to use a car that has plenty of life and performance left in it. Looking for a great new-to-you Hyundai? Come see the options at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AR.

Image via Ford Buyers looking for a reliable vehicle that won't break the bank may opt for a used car. And there are a whole lot of reasons to choose a pre-owned Ford over other automotive brands. more Discover the Long-Term Benefits of Owning a Pre-Owned Ford 1. Affordability It's no secret that used cars are cheaper than their new counterparts. When you purchase a used Ford, you'll get the same reliability at a fraction of the price of the new variant. New cars are often subject to higher registration fees and taxes based on the vehicle's current market value. These costs are generally lower with a used car, saving you money in the long run. Also, purchasing a previously owned Ford means avoiding the steep depreciation that new vehicles undergo. 2. Strong Resale Value Ford has built a reputation for creating reliable, tech-rich cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. This reputation helps maintain demand for used Ford vehicles, ensuring they retain a higher resale value than other brands. Not only can drivers enjoy the benefits of using their Ford vehicle, but they can also expect an impressive return on their investment when they intend to move on to a different vehicle. Our certified used Ford cars offer extra peace of mind with rigorous inspections. 3.  Durability Ford vehicles are widely known for their unyielding power and durability. Ford tests its cars in some of the world's most extreme conditions. Whether it's scorching deserts, rocky terrains, or busy highways, you're guaranteed outstanding performance. Ford vehicles are also among the safest on the market, offering a wide range of sophisticated safety tech, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping system, and cross-traffic alert. 4. Variety of Options Financing a previously owned Ford may enable you to access a higher-end model that may be outside your budget when new. Shoppers can explore models from different years and generations, each with distinct features and enhancements, including used trucks like the F-250, Maverick, Ranger, and more. This allows you to find a used Ford that aligns with your budget and needs while benefitting from a pre-owned car's lower price point. 5. Easily Accessible Parts One of the key advantages of owning a used Ford is the widespread availability of replacement parts, making maintenance and repairs more convenient and affordable. Our mechanics are well-familiar with Ford's designs and have the latest diagnostic equipment and techniques to diagnose and repair different car issues, ensuring expert services. Automotive critics generally agree that Ford cars are well worth the money in the long run. Stop by Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR, to explore our vast inventory of certified used vehicles. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will gladly answer any questions you may have.

Image via RAM Used RAM models provide the power, reliability, and capability you want from a full-size pickup at an affordable price. Start your search with these three smart truck picks for long-term durability. more 3 Used RAM Models With Exceptional Durability and Utility 1. 2021 RAM 1500 Laramie The RAM 1500 landed on the Car and Driver Editor's Choice and 10Best lists in 2021. The Laramie model of this full-size pickup incorporates luxury features like real leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, and heated, ventilated, power-adjustable front seats. It comes with a potent V8 that gives you 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. You'll also have an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in navigation, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and an Alpine stereo system with satellite radio. The 2021 RAM 1500 received a five-star overall crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, so you can count on this truck if a collision occurs. Every model, including the Laramie, comes with a rearview camera. 2. 2022 RAM 1500 Lone Star The Lone Star model features a V6 that gets 305 hp and 269 pound-feet of torque. It comes with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This version of the 2022 RAM 1500 has an extended cab that comfortably seats up to six passengers, and its bed has a total of 61.5 cubic feet of cargo space. With the right equipment, this truck can tow up to 6,750 pounds. The Lone Star has standard Class III towing equipment including a trailer hitch and integrated sway control. You'll also have tech such as a 5-inch infotainment screen that runs the Uconnect software system and a six-speaker stereo. 3. 2023 RAM 1500 Limited This high-end trim of the 2023 RAM 1500 incorporates a V8 that delivers 395 hp and 410 pound-feet of torque. It features an eight-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive, along with a 48-volt hybrid system that gives an extra power boost. Premium equipment in this model includes wireless device charging, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. The Limited model also boasts an adaptive air suspension for a smooth ride on all types of terrain. You'll enjoy leather upholstery, HD radio, navigation, and heated front and rear seats. High-tech connectivity features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 10-speaker stereo system and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. Many RAM 1500 models come with upgrades like a head-up ​display that projects important info onto the windshield, a sunroof, in-bed lighting, trailer reverse steering control, a trailer hitch light, and more. Explore our expansive inventory of high-quality used trucks now. Visit Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR today to test drive these exceptional RAM models.

Image via Chevrolet Whether you're looking for an affordable everyday family ride or an off-road-ready SUV for weekend trips across Arkansas, a used Chevrolet can fit the bill. From a wide range of available models to multiple benefits, here are the reasons to explore the used Chevy inventory at our Fort Smith dealership. more 5 Reasons a Used Chevrolet Could Be the Best Vehicle You Ever Own 1. Better Value for Money Pre-owned models often cost a fraction of the price of a new Chevrolet, and at our dealership, you can find a wide range of budget-friendly low-mileage options, including current-generation vehicles. Not only are pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles cheaper, but they depreciate less than new models. Depending on the model and year, your pre-owned Chevy could even gain value, meaning you're getting more for your money. 2. Lower Insurance Rates Beyond a lower upfront cost, owning a used Chevy often means paying cheaper insurance. That's because used vehicles don't require gap insurance to cover for depreciation. Generally, used Chevys are also more affordable to repair than new ones, which is another factor that can reduce the insurance rate. 3. Wide Selection of Models When buying a new Chevy, you're limited to the current year's lineup and some models from the previous year. However, when purchasing a used Chevy, you can pick from a wider selection of models, including discontinued options. For instance, the automaker discontinued the popular Chevrolet Sonic in 2020, but families seeking a subcompact car can opt for a used 2020 Sonic. Buyers can also find current-generation and even current-year low-mileage options at a fraction of the price, meaning you could drive home in a near-new Chevy without breaking the bank. 4. Premium Features at Lower Prices Another advantage of buying a used Chevy is that most vehicles have been customized with premium features by their original owners, meaning you can enjoy improved performance or enhanced comfort without having to pay for these features yourself. If you want to upgrade a used Chevy, original parts and accessories are often cheaper for previous model years, so you could still save while customizing the ride of your dreams. 5. Reliable Performance Chevrolet vehicles are built to last, boasting an average lifespan of up to 300,000 miles when properly maintained. Purchasing a low-mileage pre-owned Chevy means investing in a dependable vehicle that will serve you for the years to come. At Rath Auto Resources, we sell a wide range of Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned vehicles that have passed a 172-point inspection by certified technicians. These vehicles come with factory-backed warranties, trial subscriptions to various built-in services, and roadside assistance, giving you peace of mind when purchasing a used Chevy. Ready to find your next ride? Visit us at Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR to explore our Chevrolet inventory and take your favorite models for a spin.

Your car paint is one of the most visible aspects of your car, and you want to keep it in good condition. Damaged paint can quickly lead to rust or corrosion if water seeps into the metal underneath. Worn or damaged paint also isn't aesthetically pleasing. We'd like to give you a few important tips on how to take care of the paint on used cars. more 3 Ways To Protect Car Paint on Used Cars Regular Washing Dirt, mud, and other filth from the road can build up on your car and must be removed to protect your paint. Dirt can cause scratches, and surface paint damage can allow liquid from water, mud, or snow to penetrate the protective coating and damage the paint beneath. Washing your car will remove all these substances and prevent them from damaging your paint job. Use the hosepipe to hose down your vehicle and remove most contaminants. We then advise using high-quality car soap and water to wash your car and rinse it thoroughly. Don't use dish soap, as it can be abrasive on the paint. Dry your car with microfiber cloths or towels rather than allowing it to air dry in the sun, as this can leave streaks behind. Use Car Wax Your paint job consists of multiple layers, with a clear top coat that protects the paint beneath. Once your car has been washed, waxing helps to provide an additional layer of protection. Wax forms an invisible film over the paint and guards against harmful UV rays from the sun that can cause the paint to fade. Always choose a high-quality wax, as a good wax provides longer-lasting protection and won't damage your paint. Carefully apply the wax and gently rub it into the surface. Your car doesn't require waxing as often as washing, but for best results, wax your car at least twice a year. The best time to do this is in spring and fall, as summer and winter conditions cause the most damage to your paint. Park Carefully One of the best ways to protect your paint is to reduce its exposure to sunlight and other potentially damaging situations as much as possible. Parking in a garage or under a carport provides the best protection. If they're not available, a good car cover that allows air to circulate can help keep your paint safe. Parking under a tree provides partial shelter from the elements but also exposes your car to bird droppings or splatter from falling fruit. Bird droppings and fruit pulp are acidic and can eat into the paint if they aren't cleared away quickly. If you'd like more advice on protecting your paint, contact us today at Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

Image via BMW If you have your heart set on driving a luxury vehicle, but the price tag on a brand-new model gives you sticker shock, then you should consider purchasing a used BMW. A pre-owned BMW has all the same high-quality features you love but comes at a cost that has already depreciated, so it's more affordable for drivers on a budget. Learn how to find the best BMW at your local used car dealership. more Three Things To Look for in a Used BMW 1. Visible Flaws On the exterior of the vehicle, visible flaws can include paint scratches, dents on the bumpers, dings on the side panels, rust, cloudy headlights, and other minor cosmetic damage that may result from normal wear-and-tear. Your used car dealership will happily address these issues before you purchase the vehicle. As for interior flaws, you should also keep an eye out for wear-and-tear damage from the previous owner, such as cracked leather, scratches on the dashboard, and worn floor mats. Many of these flaws can be corrected by the dealership when you buy the vehicle. Other visible flaws may include leaks beneath the vehicle or worn-down wheels. 2. Ride Feel Test driving a pre-owned BMW is often the most important part. For one thing, you will want to be sure that you can handle the size of the vehicle, particularly if you are downsizing or up-sizing from your previous vehicle. It's essential to feel comfortable behind the wheel, so be sure to take all the time you need to adjust the seat and test drive the vehicle in different traffic flows. As a good rule of thumb, your test drive should last for 20 to 30 minutes. This should give you plenty of time to drive the car in residential or low-speed traffic and take a quick cruise on the highway. During your test drive, be sure to pay attention to how the engine sounds and how well the car handles to identify any potential mechanical issues that need to be addressed by the dealership. 3. Mileage Mileage is another key factor to assess when you are shopping for a used vehicle. In general, the lower the mileage on a car, the longer the car will last. The mileage on a car is closely related to how long some vehicle components, like brake pads and the transmission, will last. Sometimes, you can find a used vehicle from the last couple of years that has very few miles on it. When you are buying a pre-owned BMW, it's best to search for a vehicle that has low mileage, a good ride feel, and very few visible flaws. Get in touch with Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR to learn about used car financing opportunities today.