Beauty Before Age?

Many drivers assume that a car’s age automatically determines how much it is worth at trade-in time. While year and mileage do influence value, they are not the whole story. In many cases, a newer vehicle with poor maintenance history can be worth less than an older vehicle that has been consistently cared for.

This is why service records play such a major role during trade-in evaluations.

Consistency Builds Confidence

Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and recommended maintenance create a clear picture of responsible ownership. When records show that a vehicle has been serviced on schedule, it signals reliability to future buyers and appraisers alike.

That history demonstrates not just care, but also peace of mind. Buyers want confidence that routine maintenance was never ignored.

Skipping Maintenance Lowers Value

Gaps in service history can create concerns, even if the vehicle feels fine during a short test drive. Inconsistent care can raise questions about long-term wear and potential repairs down the road.

Vehicles without maintenance documentation may still perform well, but less certainty often leads to more conservative appraisals.

Digital Records Count Too

Service history does not need to be stored in a physical folder. Many maintenance providers maintain digital records that can be referenced during evaluations. Online service logs, dealership service histories, and manufacturer databases often help verify past care.

If you do have physical receipts or printed service summaries, bringing them along can be helpful during your visit.

How History Affects Trade-In Offers

Two vehicles of the same year and mileage can receive different trade-in values simply based on service documentation. Consistent records reduce risk for future owners, and that added confidence is reflected in the appraisal.

If you are considering trading your vehicle, learning more about how the process works through the trade-in evaluation page is a good way to set expectations.

Preparing Your Records

• Gather receipts from oil changes and maintenance visits.
• Print digital service histories when possible.
• Keep any warranty or repair paperwork.
• Bring title or payoff information if applicable.

Preparation saves time and helps ensure that your vehicle is evaluated as accurately as possible.

Thinking Ahead

Even if you are not planning to trade right away, keeping organized maintenance records benefits your vehicle long-term. It improves reliability today and protects value for the future.

If you have questions about what documents to bring or how the appraisal process works, you can always reach out for assistance before your visit.

But Luckily You Don't Have To!

Buying your first car is a big deal. It’s exciting, but it can also feel intimidating. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t want to say the wrong thing,” or “What if I make a huge mistake?”, you’re not alone. Almost every first-time buyer walks in with the same worries.

The good news? Most of those worries are completely normal and many of them aren’t worth stressing over as much as you think. Let’s walk through a few of the big fears first-time buyers have, and why you can relax a little.

Worry #1: “I Don’t Know Enough About Cars”

Plenty of people feel like they need to be a car expert before they ever step onto a lot. In reality, that’s not the expectation at all. Your job is to know your life, your budget, and what you’d like your next vehicle to do for you. The details features, trim levels, and options can be talked through together.

A simple way to feel more confident is to look around online first. Take a few minutes to browse a variety of vehicles so you can get a feel for body styles, approximate prices, and features that catch your eye. You don’t need to memorize anything just getting familiar with what’s out there can make the conversation at the dealership feel much easier.

Remember, asking questions is not a sign of weakness. It’s the smartest thing you can do as a first-time buyer.

Worry #2: “I’ll Say the Wrong Thing”

It’s easy to worry that one wrong sentence could somehow derail the whole experience. The truth is, there’s no secret script you’re supposed to follow. You don’t need special words or perfect timing just honesty.

The most helpful thing you can do is simply share what you’re looking for and what matters to you. Whether that’s staying within a certain budget, needing space for family, or wanting great fuel mileage, your needs guide the conversation. The process works best when it feels open and relaxed, not like a test you have to pass. You can learn more about that process by reading up on how a trade-in evaluation typically works.

Think of it as a two-way conversation focused on finding the vehicle that fits you and your lifestyle. There’s no “wrong” thing to say when you’re being honest about what you want and asking questions to learn more.

Worry #3: “I Won’t Qualify for Financing”

Financing is another big stress point for first-time buyers. Many people worry they’ll sit down, get judged, and be told “no” without any explanation.

In reality, the financing process is more about matching your situation with the right lending option. Every lender has different guidelines, and many dealerships work with a variety of lending partners. The goal is to find a comfortable path forward, not to make you feel bad about where you’re starting from.

If you’d like a head start, you can always take a few minutes to begin a simple credit application online. That way, some of the groundwork is done before you ever step through the door. It doesn’t guarantee approval, but it can help you know what to expect and save time during your visit.

Worry #4: “What If I Pick the Wrong Vehicle?”

First-time buyers often feel pressure to find the “perfect” car on the first try. It’s easy to worry that you’ll regret your choice the moment you drive away.

Instead of chasing perfection, focus on fit. How will you really use the vehicle? Daily commutes, school runs, road trips, weekend projects these all matter more than a specific color or gadget.

If you don’t see the exact match you had in mind, that’s not the end of the road. Many dealerships offer a vehicle locator option to help search beyond what’s sitting on the lot today. If you’re curious about that, take a look at the car locator service to see how it works.

The right vehicle is the one that fits your life and budget not the one that checks every box on a wishlist.

Worry #5: “I’ll Just Be Another Number”

It’s easy to picture the car-buying process as cold and transactional get in, sign papers, get out. But behind every showroom and website is a team of real people who help customers every day and understand that a first-time purchase is a big deal.

If you’d like to feel more comfortable before you ever visit, you can always learn more about the team you’ll be working with. Getting to know the people behind the process can make the entire experience feel more personal.

And if you have a question, concern, or special situation you want to talk through ahead of time, you can reach out directly. A quick message can clear up a lot of anxiety before you ever set foot in the showroom.

How to Feel More Confident Before You Visit

Feeling nervous doesn’t mean you’re not ready to buy a car it just means it’s important to you. Here are a few simple steps that can boost your confidence:

• Write down your “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves” so you don’t forget them in the moment.
• Take a quick look at what’s available right now to get a feel for options and price ranges.
• Gather basic documents you might need, like your driver’s license and trade-in information if you have a vehicle to replace.
• If you’re curious about financing, spend a few minutes on the online credit application so you know where you stand.
• Jot down any questions you want to be sure you ask in person.

Being a first-time buyer doesn’t mean you have to feel lost. With a little preparation, a few good questions, and a team willing to guide you through the process, you can move from nervous to confident and actually enjoy choosing your first car.

 **Understanding Salvage Titles: What They Mean and Why You Should Care**

If you've ever shopped for a car, you've likely been advised to avoid vehicles with a salvage title. But what exactly is a salvage title, and                                                   why does it matter when buying a car? In this post, we'll explore the ins and outs of salvage titles, when it might be                                                                         acceptable to consider purchasing a salvaged vehicle, and how it could impact your car-buying experience.

What is a Salvage Title?

A car typically has a "clean" or "clear" title, suggesting it's either never been in a wreck or has not been deemed unsalvageable                                                           after an accident. A salvage title, on the other hand, is issued to a vehicle when an insurance company labels it a total loss.                                                                     This can happen for various reasons:

**Severe Accidents:** While some cars emerge severely damaged yet are not labeled salvage, others with seemingly minor damage may be totaled due to frame damage, rendering them unsafe. - **Economic Total Loss:** When the repair cost exceeds the car's value, typically seen in older vehicles needing extensive repairs.

 **Flood Damage:** The intricate electronics in modern cars can be disrupted by flooding, making them unsafe.

 **Hail Damage:** Significant hail damage leading to expensive repairs can prompt a salvage title.

 **Theft Recovery:** A car deemed a total loss post-theft, once recovered, may still possess a salvage title.

 When is it Okay to Buy a Car with a Salvage Title? Generally, buying a car with a salvage title is fraught with risks, primarily related to safety and financial downsides. However, exceptions exist:

 **Hail Damage:** If a salvage title is solely due to hail damage—which is purely cosmetic—safety isn't typically compromised. Some states specifically differentiate hail damage on titles, though many lump it with other salvage causes.

Why Salvage Titles are More Common Today

 **Complex Components:** Modern vehicles incorporate numerous electronic components and crumple zones designed to absorb crash impacts, which, though enhancing safety, can render repairs costly.

**Expensive Parts:** The rising costs and complexity of parts since COVID-19 have increased the likelihood of cars being labeled as totaled rather than repaired. ### Considerations Before Buying a Salvaged Vehicle Here are a few things to consider if you are thinking about purchasing a salvage title car:

 **Financial Restrictions:** It's often challenging to secure a loan or insurance for a salvaged vehicle. Insurance companies might offer minimal coverage, reflecting the car's lower value.

 **Unknown Repairs:** Without a trusted mechanic, the quality of repairs remains uncertain. Ensuring the vehicle's airbags and safety features are functional is vital. - **Title Fraud:** Be aware of title washing, where sellers might misrepresent a vehicle's title status. Conducting a pre-purchase inspection can protect you against fraud.

### Who Buys Salvage Title Cars? Typically, buyers fall into two categories: 1. **Mechanics:** Those who trust their skills to rebuild a car safely. 2. **Budget-strapped Buyers:** Individuals who view a salvage title car as a financially feasible option despite the risks.  ### In Conclusion While a salvage title might tempt budget-conscious or desperate buyers, the potential safety hazards, resale difficulties, and financial obstacles make them a less-than-ideal choice. The sole exception may be vehicles tagged with a salvage title due to hail damage alone. Always review a vehicle history report and, if uncertain, seek a thorough inspection by a professional mechanic. Thank you for reading, and I'll be pleased to assist you with any further questions or if you're looking for a car at Reynolds Automotive. Happy driving!

How Tariffs on New Cars Will Affect Used Car Prices

With recent announcements of a 25% tariff on vehicles imported into the United States, many are left wondering

how this might affect the prices of used cars. While these tariffs target new vehicles, the ripple effects could be felt

throughout the entire automotive market. Let’s dive into the implications and what car buyers should consider moving forward.

Understanding the New Tariffs

Earlier this year, President Trump announced a 25% tariff on cars not assembled in the United States,

a move set to begin on April 3rd. An additional tariff on car parts will follow on May 3rd. These tariffs will significantly

impact every car company, regardless of where they assemble their cars. Today, roughly half of the vehicles sold

in the United States are imported. Among these imports, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Germany are

the top sources. Despite the perception of certain brands as American, vehicles like the Chevy Blazer and Silverado

often cross borders multiple times during production, each crossing potentially incurring a tariff.

Impact on New Car Prices

With these tariffs, new car prices are expected to rise, potentially increasing by $3,000 to $6,000. This increase results

from distributing the cost of tariffs across all vehicles. Even cars assembled in the United States might not escape price

hikes due to imported parts.

What This Means for Used Car Prices

As new car prices rise and potentially lead to a halt in production, consumers may turn to the used car market.

This increased demand could drive up the prices for used vehicles as well. With fewer new cars available,

fewer people will trade in their old cars, thus decreasing the supply of used vehicles. This situation could mirror

what was experienced five years ago during the pandemic—the halted production, chip shortage, and supply chain

issues led to a shortage of new cars and increased reliance on the used car market, driving prices sky-high.

Dealing with Reduced Supply

Small dealerships, like Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, Kansas, face unique challenges. As larger franchise dealers

and companies like CarMax hold onto used cars, buying options for smaller players decrease.

At Reynolds Automotive, the ripple effects are already being observed as prices at auctions begin to rise.

Large companies stockpile used cars, preparing for a shift in customer demand from new to used vehicles, a strategy difficult

for smaller dealerships due to limited capital.

Buyer Advice

For those considering purchasing a car soon, it might be wise to start looking now. As the market adjusts to these new tariffs,

early buyers could avoid potential price hikes. However, it’s essential to remain selective and avoid impulsive purchases.

Conclusion

Tariffs on new cars create a cascading effect throughout the automotive sector. For small dealerships and consumers

alike, the economic disruptions can pose challenges. Those working in car sales, and the broader consumer market,

will undoubtedly feel these changes. As we navigate these uncertain times, understanding these potential impacts

becomes crucial. In conclusion, while we hope these tariffs don't come to pass, only time will tell. So, for now, spread

the word, make informed decisions, and happy driving!

If you are considering an extended car warranty, you need to be prepared with questions for the car dealership.

1. What is the total "out the door" cost, including taxes and fees?

2. Can this be rolled into the car payment?

3. How many years or miles does the warranty last?

4. Can anything cause it to be cancelled before it expires?

5. What is the deductible for each incident?

6. Are there limits to how many claims can be made in a set period of time?

7. What is NOT covered?

8. What mechanics can I use and do I need prior approval?

9. What happens if the car is sold before the warranty expires?

10. What happens if the car is totaled before the warranty expires?

Why Choose a Honda?

There are several manufacturers known for making reliable cars. So why should you choose a Honda? Here are a couple of reasons.

Reliability

If you are in the market for a used car, you’re probably concerned about reliability more than anything. Car buyers can feel comfortable purchasing used Hondas.

We’re sure you know someone who drove their Honda for 250,000+ miles. But it’s not only these first-hand accounts that make people loyal to the brand. In 2020, Honda won the Best Value Brand Award from Kelley Blue Book due to “Honda’s quality, reliability, durability, and resale value.”

It’s worth noting that Hondas have an excellent resale value. This may be a drawback for those looking for a used vehicle. But the car industry is like most other industries – you have to be willing to pay for quality.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) test passenger vehicles yearly. The Accord, Civic, Insight, CR-V, and Odyssey were all named “Top Safety Picks” by the IIHS. Additionally, the Accord, Insight, HR-V, Pilot, Ridgeline, and Odyssey all received 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA.

Also, Forbes named the Honda Odyssey, CR-V, Civic, and Accord as the safest and most reliable used models in their vehicle categories (and the Pilot was runner-up in its category.) So, yes, Hondas are known for being safe vehicles.

Most of Honda’s new models are equipped with active driver assistance features called Honda Sensing. While these features are available on most new models today, you may find them currently on used high-end Hondas.

Look for lane-keeping systems and blind spot detection systems. And, of course, all Hondas have airbags, and most have ABS brakes.

5 Great Used Hondas

When buying a used car, you should always research the specific year’s model. Even though Honda is known for reliability and safety, some years’ models rate better than others.

Generally, here are five models that have stood the test of time.

Civic: The Civic is popular because it is compact and has excellent fuel economy. It also has more cargo and passenger space than other vehicles in its category.

Pilot: The popular Pilot is perfect for those who want to avoid a minivan but need a third row for carpools.

Accord: The Accord has been described as an excellent car for “people who like to drive fast.” While we certainly can’t speak to this description, we know that Accords have a reputation for being reliable and easy to repair.

CR-V: The CR-V is a popular compact SUV. It gets better than expected gas mileage.

Odyssey: The Odyssey is perfect for growing families as the vehicle can seat seven comfortably and has an impressive cargo space and a smooth ride. We sell more Odysseys than any other vehicle. 

Search for Quality Used Hondas at Reynolds Automotive

Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, KS has plenty of reliable previously-owned Hondas for the used car buyer. We accept trade ins and offer financing options. Ask our staff about our 3-month warranty.

How To Check Your Antifreeze

It may not cross most people's minds, but checking your car's antifreeze protection level is an important part of regular maintenance. Anti-freeze helps protect your car from damage caused by cold weather, and keeping it at the proper level could save you from costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will show you how to check your car's antifreeze protection level and what to do if it needs to be adjusted.

What You Need

Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:

• An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.

• Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.

• Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.

Step 1: Locate The Reservoir

The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top. There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding! 

Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze

Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top. Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures. Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with a paper towel or rag. 

Step 3: Storing The Tester

After testing, use a Ziplock bag to store your anti-freeze tester until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don't forget - always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!   

Checking your car's antifreeze protection level doesn't have to be difficult or complicated; with these simple steps anyone can do it themselves! With regular testing every few months, you'll know exactly how well protected against extreme cold temperatures your vehicle really is - potentially saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs down the line!

Top 5 Most Reliable Used Vehicles

Looking for a new-to-you used car can be a stressful experience – especially if you know little about the market. Shopping at a used-car dealership with a lot of inventory is helpful because you can test drive many different vehicles. But how do you know which vehicle will stand the test of time?

As a service to our customers, we have scoured the lists of the most reliable used vehicles from excellent sources such as Car and Driver, Consumer Reports, and Auto List. Here’s what we discovered.

5 Reliable Used Cars

Here are five vehicles that received nods from multiple sources.

1. Honda CR-V

It shouldn’t be a surprise that a product made by Honda appears at the top of our list. In fact, multiple years of the Honda CR-V made a list, including 2005, 2006, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2021. The Honda CR-V is categorized as a compact crossover SUV. You may like the Honda CR-V for its roomy cabin, good fuel economy, and sure-footed handling. But you will love your Honda CR-V because of its dependability.

2. Toyota Highlander

The Highlander was one of the first midsize crossovers and one of Toyota’s best-selling SUVs. Like the CR-V, the Highlander is known for its roomy cabin and stability. Some reports say the best years for the Highlander span from 2017-2021, giving you many years from which to choose.

3. Mazda3

The Mazda3 is available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. It’s stylish and boasts excellent handling. Besides having a powerful engine and a user-friendly “infotainment system,” the Mazda3 is also known for being reliable – for models 2014 and newer.

4. Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent is a reliable subcompact car with excellent fuel economy and adequate passenger space. Reports show that 2018-2021 models are the most reliable.

5. Lexus RX 350

This luxury crossover SUV appeared on multiple lists of “most reliable cars.” The Lexus RX 350 is known for its excellent safety ratings, good fuel economy, and comfortable cabin. Most reports show the best years for the RX 350 were between 2011 - 2013 and 2018 - 2021.

Other Contenders

While we limited our list to five reliable vehicles, we could have included many others. Here are some to consider as you search for a reliable car:

• Toyota Camry

• Toyota Corolla

• Toyota RAV-4

• Honda Pilot

• Honda Odyssey

How to Buy a Reliable Car

Selecting a car is a big decision. Here are some tips to help you find a reliable vehicle.

1. Research: Scour rating charts and reliability reports. The information is at your fingertips!

2. Search for Reliable Brands: Every once in a while, a manufacturer may have a stand-out in their line that receives excellent ratings. However, you know you can depend on Toyota and Honda for a reliable ride.

3. Accident Reports and Maintenance Logs: Once you have chosen a specific make and model, narrow down your choices by looking at accident reports and available maintenance history.

4. Dealership: Choose wisely. Buy from a trusted dealership in your area like Reynolds Automotive.

Find Your Next Used Car at Reynolds Automotive

Reynolds Automotive is a family-owned and operated car dealership in Merriam, KS. Husband and wife, Todd and Meredith Reynolds, are onsite every day, doing everything they can to be honest and trustworthy to change your mind about used car dealers. We have a large inventory of quality used cars. Stop by for a test drive and ask about our three-month warranty.

So you're considering an electric car. Smart move! I highly suggest the Chevy Bolt. I personally drive one, despite having access to any car on our dealership lot. Occasionally I'm tempted by the luxury of a GMC Denali or top end Jeep Cherokee. I think about how much easier it would be for my kid to get in the car with the push-button opening on a Honda Odyssey. But then I remember all the reasons I love my Chevy Bolt.

100% Electric

The Chevy Bolt is not a hybrid; it's an all-electrive vehicle (AEV). To charge it, you don't need any equipment other than the 120V outlet you already have in your garage and the charging cord that comes with the car. With the 120V outlet, your Bolt will only charge 4 miles per hour. You would therefore need to charge every single night and possibly all weekend, depending on your useage. However, upgrading to a 240V outlet will cut your charging down to just 4 hours total! We made this upgrade a year into our EV experience and it was well worth the money spent. The great news for Evergy electricity customers is that you can qualify for up to a $500 rebate for the cost of the 240V installation.

On a fully-charged battery, you can expect to drive up to 250 miles, though a more realistic estimate is 180-200. Keep in mind when shopping for ANY electric car, the maximum mileage only occures under perfect conditions--not using air conditioning, not driving over 50 MPH, etc. With an electric car, you actually get better gas mileage in the city than on the highway. Each time you use the brakes, energy is sent back into the battery. Stop and go traffic is no longer something to curse at! Additionally, the Chevy Bolt has regenerative braking. This is a paddle on the steering wheel that causes you to slow down and eventually brake. According to JD Power, up to 70% of the kinetic energy used in braking is captured and returned to the battery with this system. It takes some getting used to, but I use this feature regularly when I don't need an abrupt stop.

People often ask if the money I save on gas is actually worth it due to the electricity I consume by charging at home. The answer is "Yes, definitely!" When we first purchased our Bolt, we saw a $50 drop in our gas/electricity cost the first month. This was in 2019 when gas prices were much lower than today in 2022, so I have no doubt that we are saving even more now. Since then, we have discovered another way to save while charging and you can read about it here. I have also been asked if using electricity over gas is actually doing anything to help the earth. Here in the Kansas City metro, Every provides our electricity and they currently source wind for 30% of their energy, and their coal-dependency drops each year in relation to their wind and solar-dependency increasing. There's no perfect solution for helping our earth, but replacing gas-powered vehicles with electric is a huge step in the right direction.

Size

The Chevy Bolt is a 5-passenger hatchback with back seats that fold down. We have easily filled the hatchback alone with two lawn chairs and my 7-year-old's bike with room to spare. I also have plenty of trunk space for groceries each week. We see large SUVs with third rows that impede on the back storage space in a way that makes the Bolt have more storage space. As far as leg room goes, I'm 5'10 and my husband is 6'3 and we are very comfortable. Our daughter is in a carseat in the back and has ample leg room as well. I was reluctant to drive a car this small as I have never owned a compact car, but I don't feel that I'm missing out on anything due to size.

Ease of Use

One of the biggest and most surprising reasons I love my Chevy Bolt is the ease I have in driving it. It has plenty of zip for a 45-year-old mom. Parking, even parallel parking, is simple. I see big vans and SUVs drive past cramped parking spaces that I happily pull into. U-turns, turning around in small spaces, backing up with the use of the backup camera...all a breeze. In 30 years I have driven countless cars and I can say that the Chevy Bolt is the easiest car to maneuver around in.

I'm glad you are considering a Bolt and I hope that you pull the trigger! I have had my Chevy Bolt for 3 years and I'll never buy a gas-powered car again. I see absolutely no reason to. Thanks to my Bolt, I save money by not buying gas, I have plenty of interior space for my family of three, I get around quickly and easily, and I'm doing my part to help the planet.

Meredith Reynolds, Owner

Reynolds Automotive

Merriam, KS

913-766-0348

Many media outlets have been talking a lot about the Fed raising interest rates in order to combat inflation. The Fed has raised the base rate by about 3% so far this year. This is a scary proposition when it comes to a big money purchase like a home or a vehicle. It has a drastic effect on the monthly mortgage payment. But the good news is on vehicles that we sell here at Reynolds Automotive the rate hikes will not cause nearly as dramatic a payment increase.

We usually sell vehicles that are around $20,000 retail. I am going to give you an example of a vehicle that a prospective consumer would finance $20,000 with the older lower rates and what the 3% rate increase does to a 60 month payment.

$20,000 financed at 60 mos. for 3.25% the payment is $362

$20,000 financed at 60 mos. for 6.25% the payment is $389

As you can see the raise in the payment is $27 or less than $1 a month. So don't let the rise in rates scare you away from getting the next car of your dreams.