All Things Cars Q&A
Your Automotive
Knowledge Base
Expert answers on buying, financing, and maintaining your vehicle.
Is It Time to Repair or Replace Your Vehicle?
One of the most common questions we hear is, "Should I put money into my current vehicle or is it time to trade?" The answer isn't always straightforward—and that's where our Performance Experts can help.
Read Full ArticleBuying Guide
Best SUV for Families
Discover SUVs that offer space, safety, comfort, and features designed with families in mind.
Is the CR-V Hybrid worth it?
The CR-V Hybrid offers improved city fuel economy and smooth acceleration compared with its gasoline-only counterpart.
Which CR-V trim is best?
The right trim depends on the features, technology, comfort, and budget that matter most to your family.
Can the CR-V tow?
Towing capability varies by model and configuration. Always consult the vehicle's owner's manual and manufacturer specifications before towing.
We Buy Cars / Trade-In
Learn what goes into determining your vehicle's trade-in value and explore your options.
Should I trade or sell privately?
Trading can offer a simpler transaction, while a private sale may require more time and effort. Which option works best depends on your priorities.
How is my trade value determined?
Factors can include year, make, model, mileage, condition, vehicle history, equipment, and current market demand.
Should I repair my vehicle before trading?
Not every repair will increase a vehicle's trade value enough to justify the expense. Our team can help evaluate your vehicle in its current condition.
Lease vs. Finance
Understand some of the key differences between leasing and financing your next vehicle.
What is the main difference?
Financing is structured around purchasing a vehicle, while leasing generally provides use of a vehicle for a specified term subject to lease conditions.
Who should consider leasing?
Leasing may appeal to drivers who prefer changing vehicles regularly and whose driving habits fit within the terms of a lease.
Who should consider financing?
Financing may appeal to drivers who want vehicle ownership and do not want lease mileage or wear-and-use restrictions.
Credit Questions
Get answers to common questions about credit and automotive financing.
Does credit affect my financing options?
Credit history is one of several factors lenders may consider when determining available financing terms and interest rates.
Can I finance with limited credit history?
Financing options may be available for buyers with limited credit history. Available programs and terms vary by lender and applicant.
New vs. Used
Compare some of the benefits of shopping for a new or pre-owned vehicle.
Why consider a new vehicle?
New vehicles can offer the latest technology, safety features, manufacturer warranty coverage, and current vehicle designs.
Why consider a used vehicle?
Pre-owned vehicles can provide additional choices across a wide range of makes, models, features, mileage, and price points.
What is Certified Pre-Owned?
Certified Pre-Owned programs vary by manufacturer and may include eligibility requirements, inspections, and additional warranty coverage.
Service & Maintenance
Oil Changes
Learn why regular oil changes are an important part of maintaining your vehicle.
Does my vehicle require synthetic oil?
Oil requirements vary by vehicle. Consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended oil specification and viscosity.
How often should I change my oil?
Recommended intervals vary by vehicle, engine, oil type, and driving conditions. Follow the maintenance schedule specified by your vehicle manufacturer.
Brakes
Learn common signs that your braking system may need inspection or service.
How do I know if my brakes need service?
Warning signs can include unusual noises, vibration, changes in pedal feel, longer stopping distances, or a brake warning light.
How long do brake pads last?
Brake-pad life varies considerably depending on the vehicle, driving habits, environment, and operating conditions.
Tires
Learn about tire maintenance, rotation, pressure, and signs that replacement may be necessary.
When should I replace my tires?
Tire condition should be evaluated based on tread depth, age, damage, wear patterns, and manufacturer recommendations.
What tire pressure should I use?
Use the cold tire pressure specified by the vehicle manufacturer, commonly shown on the tire-information label inside the driver's door area.
Batteries
Learn about common battery warning signs and when your vehicle's battery should be inspected.
What are signs of a weak battery?
Possible warning signs include slow starting, electrical issues, warning lights, or difficulty starting the vehicle.
Can a discharged battery be recharged?
In some situations a discharged battery can be recharged. A battery that no longer holds an adequate charge may require replacement.
Maintenance Minder
Understand your vehicle's maintenance reminders and what to do when an indicator appears.
What is a maintenance reminder?
Many modern vehicles monitor operating conditions and provide reminders when certain maintenance may be due.
Should I still follow my owner's manual?
Yes. Your owner's manual and manufacturer maintenance schedule are the primary sources for vehicle-specific maintenance recommendations.
Vehicle Recalls
Check your vehicle for open safety recalls using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall lookup tool. If your vehicle has an open recall, contact the appropriate authorized dealership for information about completing the recall repair.
Check Recall StatusHave a Question?
Have a question about buying, financing, trading, or servicing a vehicle? Contact the Performance Columbus team and we'll help point you in the right direction.
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