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With so many reliable, good-value used vehicles on the market nowadays, it can be an overwhelming experience knowing where to start your hunt for the perfect used car! We know this to be true personally, so we decided to put together a quick list of 5 of the best used Nissans drivers can buy to help you get started on your hunt for the perfect used car. 1.    Nissan Altima: Nissan's Best-Selling Sedan The Nissan Altima is one of America's favorite family sedans for a reason: The Altima delivers great specs, top-of-the-line fuel economy, and sleek styling, all at a very affordable price! With various engines available depending on the year and trim level, the Altima is also known for its great performance, strong acceleration, and for finding the sweet spot between a functional family sedan and a car capable of turning heads on the street. 2.    Nissan Rogue: A Perfect Blend of Capacity and Performance The Nissan Rogue is one of America's best-selling compact SUVs for a reason! Think about a used Rogue if you're looking for a perfect blend of cargo-carrying capacity and a ride that handles like a much smaller car when navigating city streets and traffic. Certain years also saw the Rogue offering a unique third row of seating, so for those looking to bring as many people as possible on their next adventure; this could be the perfect SUV for you! more 3.    Nissan Frontier: Nissan's Classic Midsize Pickup A pre-owned Nissan Frontier would be an excellent choice for someone looking for a tremendous bang-for-buck midsize truck. It shouldn't be tough to find used Frontiers that include a potent V-6 powertrain with 6,000 pounds of towing capacity, so you know the Frontier doesn't skimp on performance! You'll also be able to find single, extended, and crew cab models of the Frontier, which adds a further level of personalization to choosing a used Frontier! 4.    Nissan Versa: A Subcompact Classic With outstanding fuel economy ratings, excellent safety scores across the board, and a surprisingly spacious-feeling interior for a subcompact car, a used Versa is a perfect choice for commuters and those looking for something small and fuel-efficient! Versa is also available in sedan or hatchback styles so that you can opt for either model depending on your cargo needs! 5.    Nissan LEAF: The Future Is Electric The Nissan LEAF is an all-electric car that is an attractive choice for those who do a lot of city driving or who mostly make shorter trips (though with charging stations becoming more and more popular around the country, you could undoubtedly make longer trips with a used LEAF now, too)! The LEAF is one of the most reliable electric cars out there, so if you're looking for a ride that does the environment some good, look no further!   Now that you've got some notes to get started on your hunt for the perfect pre-owned Nissan, it's time to get out there and start checking these vehicles out for yourself! Please stop by and see us at DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick today, and let us help you find the perfect used car for your driving needs.

Being prepared for anything when you're a driver is always important. An emergency can happen even with the best vehicle maintained to the highest level. While we hope this never happens to you, we'd advise you to keep a car emergency kit in your trunk should you need it. We've listed a variety of items that will help deal with many different situations that may occur. Jumper Cables A car battery can potentially let you down, and you'll need jumper cables to be on the move again. There are a wide variety of cables available, but we recommend choosing a high-quality set of heavy-duty cables. Good quality cables may seem expensive, but they won't let you down when needed. We also recommend choosing 16' cables, as these will even allow you to get a charge from a vehicle parked behind you. Flashlight Emergencies can happen anytime, and a flashlight is essential to help you see in the dark. You may be in a rural area with poor lighting, or you might need to see something up close, and this additional light source will be of immense help. We advise choosing a good quality LED flashlight, as it will last a long time, and you don't have to worry about replacing a blown bulb. more Water Water is essential, and you may have to wait for a tow or other assistance. If this happens in hot weather, you'll start to get thirsty. To be safe, we recommend storing at least a gallon of water. A sealed water container will last at least six months or even longer. The water will get warm in your trunk, but it will still quench your thirst and refresh you. Fire Extinguisher We hope you'll never be faced with a fire, but if you are, a small fire extinguisher is essential. As with emergency supplies, it's better to have them available just in case. The three types of fire you could encounter are: Class A - ordinary combustibles like plastic and cloth Class B - flammable liquids like gasoline and oil Class C - electrical fires We recommend a small class ABC extinguisher as it will effectively prevent any possible fires in your car. Spare Tire Many drivers, unfortunately, don't pay much attention to their spare tires. Your spare tire must be checked regularly, as it can lose air. This doesn't mean it leaks, but your tire pressure will equalize the air pressure outside. If you need to change a tire, it's essential to know that it's always in perfect condition.   Many other items can be included in an emergency kit, including tire sealant, a multitool, and emergency food. If you'd like more advice on additional emergency kits or to check out our excellent range of used vehicles, come in and see us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick.

As a new driver, you've got many enjoyable years behind the wheel to look forward to. We know the feeling of exhilaration that you feel when you look at your new license and the time and effort you dedicated to gaining it. We want to offer you some tips we give to all new drivers in Frederick, MD. They'll help to keep you safe and make your driving more enjoyable. 3 Top Tips for New Drivers in Frederick, MD Don't Speed It can be tempting to speed, especially if traffic is very light. You may think that going slightly faster isn't a problem, as you feel confident in controlling your car. The danger with this thinking is that it isn't true. The vast majority of drivers cannot control their car completely if they travel faster than the prescribed speed limit. This is a special skill requiring advanced driver training and practice.   Speed limits allow all drivers to travel safely in the area where the limit applies. The limit may have been set due to narrower streets, a large volume of traffic, or many pedestrians in the area. When you keep within the speed limit, you keep yourself, your car, and other road users safe. It's also important to remember that speeding is illegal, and a traffic officer will give you a ticket if you're caught. more Adjust Settings for Comfort Before you start your car, make sure to adjust your car's settings. Check the positioning of your rearview and side mirrors to make sure that you can see clearly. When you adjust them, also take into account any blind spots, and try to limit them as much as possible. Choose your radio station, so you've got your favorite tunes playing. Finally, check your seating position, so you're comfortable and won't need to adjust it.   There are two main reasons for making these adjustments: to make yourself comfortable and prevent the need to change anything while you're driving. If you're comfortable, you'll enjoy your driving experience far more. If you need to adjust any of your driving settings, this becomes distracting as you have to take your eyes off the road to change something. This distraction can lead to an accident. Don't Forget Your Seatbelt Your seatbelt is a crucial safety device that's designed to protect you in the event of an accident. It keeps you in the perfect position for the airbag to deploy and shield you from harm. Your seatbelt will also keep you from moving during a collision, reducing your chance of being injured. It's important to get into snapping on your seatbelt as soon as you sit behind the wheel.   Some drivers, unfortunately, become lazy or resentful about using their seatbelts. Ignore these drivers, keep you and your passengers safe and enjoy your ride in safety.   If you'd like more advice on driving skills and tips, come and see us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick.

Defensive driving involves knowing how to keep you, your passengers, and your car safe when you're on the road. These are skills that every driver needs to master as driving can, unfortunately, be dangerous. To protect yourself, you need to know how to avoid accidents as much as possible. To keep our Maryland drivers safe, these are some defensive driving tips we'd like to share with you. Don't Get Distracted As a driver, you're exposed to numerous distractions as you drive, and the components in your car can be distractions too. To drive defensively, you have to be aware of your surroundings, including other vehicles and pedestrians, at all times. An accident can happen very quickly, and you need to be able to react instantly.   Statistics have shown that, in most cases, it's not a distraction that causes an accident but the driver's reaction to the distraction. If you're distracted by reaching for your cellphone or watching something you saw on the side of the road, you can put yourself and others at risk. The most important way to overcome getting distracted is to just drive. Always Be Prepared If you regularly drive a particular route, becoming complacent is very easy. You're familiar with the road, the signs, and maybe even the traffic patterns. This complacency means you'll relax, check your mirrors less frequently, and perhaps even take one of your hands off the wheel. This relaxed behavior, while perfectly normal, can lead to an accident. more When a driver is relaxed, their reactions tend to be slower and less precise. A calm mind can even start to daydream. In circumstances like these, it can be easy to underestimate another vehicle's speed or overestimate the distance to a pedestrian ahead of you. Other drivers and pedestrians can decide to do the strangest things, and if you are not prepared for this, you could be involved in an accident. Keep a Safe Distance A very important lesson from the driver's manual is always keeping a safe distance from other vehicles. Many drivers will automatically follow the vehicle's speed ahead of them, which can lead to many cars bunching up on the road. A problem with this behavior is if one of the vehicles suddenly jams on the brakes, the vehicles behind may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.   The three-second rule guides the distance you should keep from the vehicle ahead. It should take three seconds for your car to reach the position the car in front of you is in. You may need to keep more distance between a vehicle ahead, for example, if you're behind a large truck but don't get closer than three seconds away from another car.   Defensive driving is a skill every driver should practice. It will help to keep you and your car safe. Come in and see us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick for more driving tips.

Whether you purchase a vehicle in Maryland or relocate to the state with your current vehicle, you will need to pay car registration fees. These fees vary based on the type of vehicle registered. The registration process also includes fees and taxes for titling. If you plan to purchase a vehicle in Frederick, MD, the following information will help you plan for the cost of registration. Car Registration Fees Fees for Passenger/Multi-Use Vehicles The fees for passenger and multi-use vehicles are calculated based on their weight. If your car weighs 3,700 pounds or less, your registration fee will be $135. If the weight of your vehicle exceeds 3,700 pounds, you can expect to pay $187. Fees for Trucks Like passenger and multi-use vehicles, truck registration fees are determined by weight. However, the dividing line for trucks is 3/4 of a ton. If your truck weighs 7,000 pounds or less, you will pay $161.50. Any truck exceeding 7,000 pounds will cost $214. more Fees for Other Vehicle Types If your vehicle is not a standard passenger or multi-use vehicle, your registration fees will vary. Historic vehicles require $51, and street rod vehicles cost $50. Motorcycles and low-speed vehicles carry a fee of $104. Consult the Maryland Vehicle Administration's website for a full list for any vehicle type not mentioned. Other Fees Related to Registration Title Fees Whether you buy, inherit, or gift a vehicle in Maryland, it will need to be titled. A title is a legal document that proves the ownership of a vehicle, and a title transfer is required any time the vehicle changes ownership. Regardless of how the change in ownership comes about, the titling fee is a flat $100. Excise Title Tax Any vehicle titled in Maryland requires a 6% excise tax calculated by the fair market value of the vehicle. If your vehicle is more than 7 years old, the minimum value of the vehicle cannot be lower than $640. If your vehicle is 7 years old or newer and was previously titled in another state where you paid 6% or more in tax, you will pay a flat $100 fee. Otherwise, you will need to pay the difference. Insurance For a vehicle to drive on Maryland's roads legally, the state requires auto insurance. You must obtain coverage from a Maryland-approved agent to complete the registration process. Your policy must meet minimum requirements for liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and personal injury protection coverage.   There isn't one flat registration fee, but calculating that cost doesn't have to be complicated. Once you know your vehicle's type, weight, and age, you can compare it to Maryland's requirements and get a good idea of what to expect. Fortunately, a good dealership will walk you through this process when you purchase a vehicle. View our selection at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick to find your next vehicle, and we will guide you through the entire process.

When buying a used car, you can gain extra value by finding a vehicle with advanced car safety features. You'll also be safer when you pull off the dealership's lot. Let's look at some of the very best safety features to look for the next time you go shopping for used cars. Pre-Collision System One safety feature you shouldn't miss out on is some variation of the 2022 Toyota Corolla's exceptional pre-collision system. Your Toyota uses front-facing cameras and distance-measuring lasers to detect anything that might cause a potential collision, including pedestrians wandering into the road.   The system then warns you clearly if such a risk of collision arises. These pre-collision systems have saved many a driver from unnecessary rear-end accidents. Click here and take a look at the Toyota models available. more Automatic Emergency Braking Hand-in-hand with pre-collision systems, you'll usually find an automatic emergency braking mechanism. With this kind of safety feature, your car will automatically stop the vehicle for you if you fail to react quickly enough to a collision warning. Anti-Lock Braking In a rare moment when you need to brake hard, there's always the danger that you'll go into a skid, especially during winter. To mitigate this risk, try to buy a car with good anti-lock braking, which stops your car from skidding by monitoring rapid decelerations in the wheel and preventing the wheel from locking up completely. Blind Spot Detection The beauty of modern vehicles is how they make up for the innate human weaknesses of the driver. One such weakness is the blind spot we all have to the rear on either side.   If you can find a vehicle with blind-spot detection, then you'll never again need to worry about your blind spot while changing lanes. Your vehicle will monitor your blind spots and alert you whenever something comes into them, usually displaying a small image on your mirrors or dashboard. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Another point of danger is when you need to reverse into a road, perhaps while exiting a parking space. It can be hard to see oncoming traffic from either direction in this situation. So it makes sense to buy a car that helps you out with cameras or radar that sense oncoming traffic and let you know when all is clear. High-Strength Steel Frames In the unlikely event of an accident, you want to feel sure that you and your passengers will escape with minimal injury. Your vehicle must have specially designed high-strength steel frames that keep the car from crumpling onto you. The 2022 Toyota Corolla has just such a framework, making it an exceptionally safe car to drive. Parking Assistant Does parallel parking make you nervous? Safety features aren't only about saving your life in a full-on accident. Sometimes they can save you from the small but costly hassle of bumping or scraping another car while parking.   If you have some kind of effective parking assistant feature, you needn't fear parking in tight spots ever again. Such a system can use bumper cameras and lasers to know the exact position of the curb and other cars. It will then guide you into the parking spot with ease.   To have a tour of preowned vehicles with outstanding safety features, visit DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick. Our commitment to excellence in value and service doesn't end at the sale alone. We're committed to providing a positive ownership experience, whichever vehicle you go for.

These days, the SUV segment is so varied that it can be overwhelming to shoppers: everyday commuters, rock-crawling off-roaders, and even sporty, high-performance machines. Whichever type of driving you plan to do, you can be sure to find the perfect SUV. Here are a few of the awesome used SUVs that you'll want to check out! 1.     2021 Lexus NX 300 F Sport Featuring an aggressive front mesh grille and a turbocharged 235-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four engine, the NX 300 F Sport brings plenty of thrills. Power is transmitted to all four wheels by a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, though more control is available from the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Fully independent sport-tuned suspension and precise steering result in athletic handling.   Inside, the NX 300 F Sport is just as exciting. The cockpit comprises premium materials, and the front seats are deeply bolstered to provide extra support during hard cornering. A load of connectivity options are available with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. 2.     2021 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend The Ford Bronco Sport is the compact version of the mid-sized Bronco that retains its larger sibling's off-roading solid ability. Its 1.5-liter straight-three engine develops 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, which allows the vehicle to tow up to 2,000 pounds. The Bronco Sport's capable four-wheel-drive system offers multiple drive modes to help you conquer a variety of surfaces, including snowy, icy roads and sandy hills. more The small SUV boasts a surprisingly large space with 41.7 inches of headroom and 36.9 inches of legroom for passengers sitting in the rear. Big Bend models have high-gloss 17-inch wheels, a military-derived MOLLE strap system to help secure equipment, and keyless entry with a push-button start. 3.     2021 Kia Telluride EX Kia's Telluride is undoubtedly one of the best bang-for-the-buck SUVs introduced in recent years. Plenty of passing power is available from its 3.8-liter V-6, which produces 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. With its well-weighted steering and strong braking performance, handling is exceptional. Passengers will enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride thanks to gas-pressurized shock absorbers.   The Telluride's spacious interior is truly luxurious and easily rivals more expensive models from competing automakers. It offers heated and power-adjustable seating, genuine leather upholstery, and high-quality synthetic wood trim. EX models come standard with a rear power liftgate, sunshades for second-row passengers, and heated power-folding side mirrors. 4.     2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XLE With its impressive fuel economy and a long list of standard features, the hybrid version of the RAV4 is another high-value option. Its peppy 219-horsepower 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-rated 40 mpg combined, so you'll be making fewer refueling stops compared to vehicles with traditional motors. Standard all-wheel drive will help boost your confidence when navigating tricky conditions.   Other standard features include: An 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat. Dual-zone automatic climate control. A 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone integration and mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The RAV4's expansive suite of driver assists offers technology like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.   As you can see, today's market is full of great choices for SUVs. Every model on this list is reliable and practical, with many amenities. Stop by DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick today, where you can find these vehicles and more!

If you see a puddle of oil on the ground under your car, don't ignore it. An engine leak is a serious issue that must be fixed by a qualified technician ASAP before it causes damage to your vehicle's engine. DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick, which sells the best-used cars in town and offers expert maintenance and repair services, provides a list of six possible causes of engine oil leaks. A Dirty, Clogged, or Worn Oil Filter Over time oil filters get dirty and clogged with dirt and debris and wear out. An oil filter that is dirty and clogged can't work correctly and could cause oil to leak out. Your vehicle's oil filter must be replaced every time the oil is changed to filter harmful contaminants out of the oil to prevent damage to the engine. Replace the oil and filter at the factory-recommended intervals to avoid unnecessary contamination and leaks. A Misaligned Oil Filter Another issue that could cause an oil leak is a misaligned oil filter. When the oil filter is replaced, it must be fitted correctly. If the filter is loose, misaligned, or improperly done, it will cause an oil leak. Ask a qualified technician to check and replace the oil filter to solve the problem. more A Loose or Broken Filler Cap When the filler cap is loose or broken, it will cause an oil leak. The oil will not drip but spill out when your car is running due to the engine's pressure. You will see puddles of oil on the ground directly under the engine. Check the filler cap, and if it's loose, won't stay in place, or you notice that it's damaged, replace the filler cap with a new one. A Broken Gasket Gaskets are an essential vehicle component and must always be kept in good condition. Broken gaskets are a common cause of oil leaks. Leaks in the seals of the gasket are due to an increase of pressure caused by sludge buildup from engine oil and prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Ask a qualified technician to repair the problem ASAP to avoid extensive engine repairs. Oil Pan Damage Damage to the underside of your car can cause oil leaks. Driving your vehicle too fast over speed bumps or on rough roads full of stones could dent the oil pan or damage the seal. When a rock hits the oil pan hard enough, it could make a hole, causing an engine oil leak. A Misaligned Oil Drain Plug If a rock or debris hits the oil pan hard enough, it could misalign the oil drain plug. Leaks could also come from a loose oil drain plug or one with worn threads. If the leak is from the plug, you will notice fresh oil on the side and around the oil drain plug.   If you notice engine oil leaks, act fast and get repairs from a professional technician as soon as possible to prevent further damage and expensive repairs. Visit DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick today or schedule an appointment online and skip the lines! Our qualified and experienced technicians will expertly repair engine oil leaks and ensure your vehicle is in excellent running condition.

Buying a used car instead of a brand new one can save you a ton of money, but only if the vehicle you buy is a quality vehicle. It can be challenging to know if you're getting a quality used car, especially if you find one with a price that sounds too good to be true. Fortunately, some great tips can help you find affordable used cars without sacrificing quality. Research Online First You probably already know what type of vehicle you want to buy, whether a coupe, sedan, SUV, or truck, and probably what size, but that's likely where your initial vehicle knowledge ends, at least if you're like most people. Before you head out for test drives and negotiations, research the best vehicles in terms of reliability, safety, comfort, and any other characteristic you value. If you’ve heard that used Toyota cars are known for their dependability, you can check out some of the most reliable used Toyota models here. There are plenty of unbiased sources available to help you narrow your choices down.   It's also best to look at online reviews to determine which vehicles are most popular with drivers like you. For instance, one car may be highly rated by an auto magazine but not favorable by commuters. If you're a commuter, you probably will skip that vehicle. After you find the two or three cars that meet your requirements and have a high rating, use online tools to determine a reasonable price for those vehicles based on age and condition. more Find Local Vehicles Once you know which cars have made your shortlist, you'll want to begin researching vehicles for sale in your area. While there are many places to find local used cars, including online marketplaces and newspaper advertisements, you will probably find the best car at the best price at your trusted used car dealership in Frederick, MD. There are many reasons for this, but the main one is that you'll know the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected before hitting the lot for sale.   With a private seller, you don't know what you're going to get because even though there are laws that say they have to disclose any issues with the car, they still may not always tell you the truth. They want to sell the vehicle and put it in the best light possible. At a dealership, though, technicians will thoroughly inspect the car and likely repair any problems they find. An accident report will usually be provided, too. Test Drive You should never buy a used car without driving it first. The main reason for this is that you'll be able to feel, hear, or smell any significant issues with the engine, steering, and transmission. If you aren't well-versed in car mechanics, it's also recommended that you bring someone with you who knows cars well to get their opinion on the condition of the vehicle. Have them also look under the hood to inspect the engine.   You may also want to test drive several vehicles before settling on one because they'll probably all drive differently, and if you're looking at several models, this is the best way to determine which one feels like it's the right fit. Only when you've driven a few cars and decided should you begin the negotiation process. Since you have the average price from the Internet, you should be able to get a price that's close to this amount.   Used car shopping can be a little nerve-wracking; wanting to make sure you have a quality vehicle at a reasonable price is no small task. Contact DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick and let our sales team help you discover the right used car for you.

Driving at night does present some challenges you likely won't encounter with daytime drives. Stay safe in Frederick, MD, with these considerations for safer driving after dark. Driving at Night on Frederick, MD Roads: 4 Safety Tips 1.    Ensure Proper Headlight Operation Lack of visibility is the most apparent consequence of night driving. During dark conditions, your headlights become especially important. Therefore, if your lights begin to dim or flicker, have them checked out by a trained technician immediately. A busted or otherwise inoperable headlight can get you pulled over by law enforcement. Even if your headlights do work properly, they still need to be aligned in the right way.   Replaced or aging headlights can become misaligned and take the focus of the light away from the road and onto other drivers. These conditions lead to danger for you and anyone else on the road. You can correct alignment issues by using the bolt or screw adjusters located somewhere around the headlight. Some headlights also have alignment aid in the form of bubble levels that help you center your lights. 2.    Use Lights Correctly Always use headlights at night rather than parking lights. High beams help expand the brightness and the scope of the road in front of you. These more powerful lights can be detrimental to other drivers, though, so you should stick with low beams if you are coming toward another car from any direction. You can protect yourself from headlight glare by briefly focusing on your lane's right edge when a vehicle approaches you. more You'll also want to give your brake lights a periodic check to ensure they are working. These lights are an essential signal for cars behind you. Further, dim your dashboard lights because overly bright dashboards can disorient you. Finally, keep a clean windshield to reap the benefits of your headlights. 3.    Proceed with Caution Staying alert about your surroundings can prevent tragedy. Various obstructions will be more challenging to spot at night, including pedestrians and wildlife. Staying awake is a vital part of staying alert. If you feel your eyes growing heavy, pull over to a safe rest area until the tiredness has passed. Possibly take a nap. If you cannot stay awake, find a motel or another place to sleep safely. Fatigue increases significantly at night and leads to too many highway fatalities.   Fatigue and low visibility can also significantly reduce your reaction time. To mitigate this effect, try to increase the distance between yourself and the vehicles in front of you. And do not speed. When possible, reduce your speed. In addition, don't become distracted by passengers, your phone, or any other potential attention-taker. 4.    Keep Yourself Healthy Foremost, stay well-rested by getting around seven or eight hours of sleep. Do not drive if you have been awake for more than fifteen hours. Also, be aware of any medications' effects on your driving. Routine vision tests can help alert you to problems you may have to see the road correctly as well. And if you are older, consider refreshing yourself with driving courses.   Modern vehicles have many driver-assist features that keep you safe during challenging driving conditions. Visit DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick and evaluate our inventory of safety-enhanced autos.

Maryland is a beautiful state that offers scenic road trips, ocean views, and fantastic natural parks and outdoor spaces. You'll also find frequent weather changes impacting road conditions, especially during winter. Find out how to plan your trip safely while keeping track of changing traffic conditions, whether you live and travel in Frederick, MD, or the surrounding area. 3 Ways to Keep Track of Traffic Conditions in Frederick, MD & Around Maryland 1.    Department of Transportation Website When you visit Maryland's Department of Transportation's website, you'll find updates on road conditions, traffic delays, and severe weather changes as they occur. This website features a regular feed on the main page, updated every one to two minutes, with specific alerts on weather reports for every county. You'll find valuable tools available on the website, including an interactive map, access to live traffic cameras, and seasonal updates.   Maryland's Department of Transportation's website provides emergency alerts in a snowstorm, so you can change travel plans or take a safer route to your destination. You'll also find general travel information, so you'll have everything you need to plan your next road trip or out-of-town weekend vacation. more 2.    Local News Updates If you listen to a specific news station on the radio, on your television, or online, you'll receive the latest updates on traffic congestion, highway closures, emergency reports, and severe weather conditions. Local news provides regular updates, so you can decide if it's best to reschedule your day's drive to the coast with the family or take an alternative route to the cottage for the weekend.   News stations feature weather and traffic with live feed, updates on significant developments, and when a specific road or big highway is clear and safe for travel. It's also a great way to prepare for changing weather, especially if heavy rains or blizzard weather conditions are expected soon. 3.    Mobile Traffic Alerts If you're often on the road and need updates on the go, searching for weather updates, or listening to your local broadcast, you'll benefit from mobile traffic alerts. There are helpful apps that offer regular updates on the forecast, traffic delays, and other reports that may impact your commute to work or drive to an out-of-town conference.     Mobile traffic alerts are available through various apps, using an interactive map and a trip planner. You'll also have access to weather apps that provide weather conditions up to seven days in advance, so you’ll know if there's a good chance of heavy snowfall and icy road conditions. Many weather and traffic-related apps are free and provide accurate and updated information within several minutes, so you'll always be well prepared for your next road trip.   There are plenty of great resources and tools where you can find traffic reports and weather updates in preparation for your drive to work. Visit us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick and see our impressive showroom display of pre-owned vehicles on your next drive to town.

A pre-owned car is often a much better choice than buying a new one. The best-used cars offer the same safety features, quality, and dependability as a new car, but without a lot of the downsides. Let's get into exactly what the benefits of used cars are. Make Someone Else Pay Depreciation It's not a secret that cars lose their value almost faster than anything else. Starting up a brand-new computer destroys a considerable amount of its value--even if you resell it immediately, you'll never get anything like what you paid for it new. Cars are not quite as bad as computers, but it's pretty darn close. The average car loses 20% of its value in the first year, and you lose a whopping 10% just driving it off the lot. Yes: that means even if you turn right, change your mind, make a circle and come right back to the dealership, your $46,000 new truck is now only worth $41,400.   The good news is that your car loses value at a slower rate after the first two years. This means that if you buy a two-year-old used car, assuming it was taken care of well and not driven a ridiculous number of miles, someone else paid the bulk of the depreciation. On the other hand, you get to enjoy the car's golden years and the bulk of its quality performance life for a whole lot less than if you bought new. more Get the Car You Really Want When you buy new, you're paying top dollar, and you'll pay top dollar for every feature and package you want to add on. Want a heated steering wheel, a stronger engine, or leather seats? Prepare to pay a lot for it. When you try to buy new, you might find yourself simply priced out of the features you really need--like extra space for the family or towing capacity that can handle your RV. You'll have to settle for something less than you want or even an entirely different and cheaper model.   When you buy used, your budget goes further. You can look at vehicles that have nicer packages and trim options that you could never afford new. You can get the car, truck, or SUV you need instead of just the one you can afford. Lower Insurance Payments on the Best Used Cars Insurance is the sneaky cost that people tend to forget about as they calculate what they can afford in a new vehicle. It's not unusual for people to calculate what monthly payments they'll be able to manage and then get a shock when they find the car they've just agreed to buy has a huge quarterly insurance payment--even more than the car they already had.   Used cars almost always mean lower insurance payments. Used cars don't have the depreciation issues that new cars do, and the best ones still come with all the latest safety and driver-assist features that make insurers breathe a sigh of relief when they offer a policy.   These are just a few of the great benefits of buying used. If you're ready, see us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick to look at what we offer!