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If you live in Frederick, MD, you know the importance of learning how and being willing to parallel park when necessary, but that doesn't make the process any less intimidating. Parallel parking can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. When you take your time, employ the proper techniques, and practice, you'll become an expert before you know it. Driving in Frederick, MD: Five Keys to Stress-Free Parallel Parking 1.    Find the Right Spot It's harder to parallel park when trying to fit in a spot that's too small for your vehicle. Take extra time to drive the area until you find a large enough spot to fit your car, with enough space for you to feel comfortable parking. Doing so will make all the difference in your confidence in the process and your successful ability to park. 2.    Take Your Time Once you find the right spot, take your time. Don't rush it. Slowly maneuver your vehicle in the necessary direction to parallel park. Don't feel concerned about oncoming traffic or cars that have to wait for you to park because rushing will only compromise the quality of the parking job. Other vehicles can wait, so focus on what you're doing, and do it right. 3.    Adjust as Needed Adjust as needed as soon as you maneuver your vehicle into the correct spot. Make sure that you give yourself enough space to leave the spot when you return to your vehicle and that any cars in front and behind you have enough room to back up or move forward to leave if necessary. 4.    Use Your Body and Your Mirrors Some people rely on their mirrors to parallel park, but it's vital that you also use your body. Physically turn around to look behind you out your back window over your shoulder to ensure your vehicle moves into the correct location. If you have a backup camera, this will give you an extra line of vision and enable you to park with ease. 5.    Choose a Car That Will Do It for You You may still feel uncomfortable even after taking the necessary time to learn how to parallel park. If that's the case, you can solve the problem by investing in a vehicle to do the parking for you. Many vehicles are equipped with park assist, which enables you to sit back while the vehicle does the work. The car will park itself, and you won't have to worry about anything.   It will be a perfect parallel park job every time. The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar has a park assist, including 360 parallel and perpendicular parking and automatic parking sensors.   We have plenty of options if you're looking for a parallel park vehicle, so you don't have to. Our experts can provide several cars with high-tech features that will take the guesswork out of the parking experience. Visit us today at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick to test drive one of our self-parking vehicles for yourself.

Do you suspect muffler problems on your ride? Read on to find telltale signs that you might need a new muffler. Symptoms of a Bad Muffler The muffler is an integral part of your auto's exhaust system. It helps funnel gas from the engine and reduces (or muffles) the loud sounds your system would otherwise make. Due to its location on the vehicle's underside, the muffler is vulnerable to bad road conditions such as potholes and excessive salt.   Some un-recommended customization to this area can also cause problems, such as holes or clogging. In addition, old age can facilitate rusting and corrosion to the muffler. Most mufflers do not have a life span that exceeds seven years. If any of these circumstances apply to your vehicle, you may have a broken or otherwise damaged muffler. The following effects may alert you to a potential issue that needs fixing. Loud Noises A malfunctioning muffler will lead to significantly increased noise from the exhaust system. This effect occurs because waste gas causes vibrations as the engine expels it. The muffler silences these vibrations, but when damaged, the gas will leak from it before noise suppression can occur. The noise may sound like thumping or clinking. Further, mufflers that become dislodged may make a rattling or banging noise. These excessive noises can cause annoyance and distraction. In some regions, the resulting noise pollution is even against the law. Fume Discoloration When any part of the exhaust system malfunctions, including the muffler, the exhaust fumes will likely take on a darker, dirtier color. These fumes are usually clear and unnoticeable. The smoke emitting from the underside of your vehicle will appear thicker too, and you may notice increased condensation on the exhaust pipes. Engine Problems The odds are good that your Check Engine indicator on your dashboard will light up when your muffler is on the fritz. Gas that cannot leave the engine properly may build up within it and damage this critical component of your car. For one, the engine may misfire frequently and sound rough when idling. You also may experience sluggish acceleration.   When the engine is not performing up to par, fuel economy often likewise suffers. You may find yourself needing to take more frequent trips for a fill-up. For reliable performance and economy, you can count on the Ford Edge that is equipped with a trademark EcoBoost engine that'll deliver you enhanced fuel efficiency, cleaner emissions, efficient acceleration, and turbocharged power. Strange Smells Aside from the foul odors from the dirty exhaust, you may notice a burning smell. This effect occurs when a piece known as the exhaust gasket causes burning to nearby plastics or wires. Why a New Muffler is Important A failing muffler can have several possible detrimental and even dangerous effects. As mentioned, your engine may suffer, leading to a hefty repair bill. You may need to pay more for gas, which is burdensome, especially in challenging economic times. Your vehicle also may not be road legal. And worst of all, the potential for accidents or destructive gas leaks, such as carbon monoxide, could put your life at risk.   For all these reasons, you should never delay seeking aid from qualified professionals who can complete the job with competence and efficiency.   Put your muffler mishaps, and other maintenance and installation needs in trusted hands. Contact DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick and consult with our auto experts today.

For Maryland drivers, autos are among their most valuable commodities. Protect your ride with these tips to prevent car theft in Frederick, MD, and beyond. 4 Things Drivers Can Do to Help Prevent Car Theft in Frederick, MD 1.    Stay Attentive Car thieves will usually opt for the easiest mark. If you engage in careless behaviors, you increase your odds of being the target of auto theft. For one, always lock your doors. And never, no matter how short your time away from your vehicle, leave your keys inside. If you have a spare key, don't leave it anywhere on your vehicle or in an obvious place outside your home, such as under a doormat.   Further, do not leave any valuables inside your car, especially if they are within view of anyone who may look through the windows. And about those windows: do not leave them rolled down. Thieves look for even a slightly cracked window, giving them instant and easy access to get your door open. Leaving your proof of ownership (your title) anywhere in the car is also not a good idea. Keep your registration ​ in the car. Keep the title ​ at home with other valuable documents, like passports, birth certificates, etc. ​​​​​​ 2.    Park Safely If possible, park your car in a busy area surrounded by other vehicles and lights. If you are going into a building, park close to the entrance, as there will be more foot traffic and opportunities to spot a theft in the process. And if you have a private garage, your car will be much more secure inside this enclosure. A car cover may provide an extra layer of protection and inconvenience for thieves. 3.    Make Use of Technology If the worst does happen and your vehicle is stolen, all hope is not lost for recovery, mainly if the car is traceable. A GPS tracking device placed on your auto will allow for better tracing opportunities for law enforcement. A newer vehicle may also have some security enhancements, but thieves can hack into these electronic systems if they are not well-guarded. As such, make a practice of updating your auto software whenever available.   For even more security, take advantage of General Motors-branded OnStar Safety & Security available on models like the Chevrolet Colorado. This built-in service can connect you with available advisors always on the job if you are in an emergency. They can aid in the recovery of a stolen vehicle and even remotely disable your car if it's taken without your consent. 4.    Invest in Anti-Theft Equipment If you have an older auto that doesn't have such technologies, you should consider anti-theft systems an investment well-made. Car alarms, for example, can be purchased and installed, including a red light that may deter prospective thieves. Another deterrent you should consider is steering wheel locks that keep unwanted intruders from accessing the wheel.   In addition, systems are available that will cut off the ignition and deprive the car of start-up power. If you're worried about keyless car theft, you may also get a small signal-blocking case that renders thieves unable to unlock your car electronically.   Want your anti-theft must-haves installed with confidence and expertise? Consult with the service department of DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick for all your auto security needs.

Every driver knows that a car needs to be maintained. But how often should you visit your mechanic? And what types of repairs can you expect in the first few years of car ownership? If you want to keep your vehicle in great shape, you should visit your local DARCARS center at least once a year. At that time, you can ask the mechanic to inspect your brakes and check whether you need to replace your brake pads. How Often Does Your Car Need New Brake Pads? Most cars need their brakes examined once every 10,000 to 20,000 miles, which might correspond to every 12-18 months for an average driver. At that time, the pads will need to be replaced, and the fluid needs to be topped up or exchanged. Your brakes also contain rotors that should be replaced periodically but are a bit more durable. You can expect to have new rotors fitted once every 50,000 to 70,000 miles. How Do You Know Your Pads Are Worn Down? If you haven't had your car serviced in over a year, you should come to the service center at your earliest convenience because it's time for a safety inspection. However, you should also contact us if you've noticed any changes to how your car brakes. Several symptoms could indicate a problem with the pads. The easiest sign to spot is intermittent screeching.   If your car emits a high-pitched noise when you press the brake to slow down, you should see a mechanic about a brake pad replacement. Another telltale sign is a vibrating steering wheel when trying to slow down your car. This could indicate that your rotors are exposed to too much heat. Finally, a grinding noise tells you that your pads have worn down completely, and service is urgently necessary. What Other Types of Service Can You Combine with Brake Maintenance? Most cars won't just need a brake inspection every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. Several other services will also be due at that time. To save money and time, you should ask your mechanic for a thorough inspection that includes an oil change, a check of all your car's fluids, a tire rotation, and a safety test. Depending on the age of your car, you might also need your hoses and belts replaced, your cooling system inspected, and your transmission repaired. Why Choose the DARCARS Service Center? You could always go with any mechanic for your brake inspection, but it's best to come to the DARCARS service center because we employ only highly qualified technicians. Everybody who works for us has completed extensive training and is used to working with various makes and models. At DARCARS, you will always get quick and friendly service at a reasonable price.   A brake pad replacement is usually necessary every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. If you drive as much as the average American, you should come to the service center once a year to have your brakes and your car's other components looked at. Contact us at DARCARS Used Car & Service Center of Frederick to schedule an appointment.

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! 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.