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Windshield Wiper Replacements Are Important: Here’s Why

Windshield Wiper Replacements Are Important: Here’s Why               Living in the Northeastern region of the United States, we are no stranger to rain. Not just rain, a lot of rain. Flash floods, micro bursts, and series of rain for days. When it rains, it pours and because of that, we use our windshield wiper blades often. You probably already know how important it is to get things like oil changes and tire rotations done, regularly. However, do you know how important it is to replace your windshield wipers? This is actually an important part of caring for a vehicle.   How Often Should Wiper Blades Be Replaced?Wiper blades should be replaced every six months or as soon as you notice a difference in driving visibility. They are designed to move over your windshield surface in a smooth, simple motion. When wiper blades no longer make proper contact with the windshield surface, they can begin to squeak, smear, or streak reducing driving visibility. Unfortunately, blades damaged or broken will not work as designed.   How Do You Know The Blades Need Changed?Other than the sound of the blades and wipe quality, here are a few ways to inspect the wiper blades for replacement:
  • Check squeegee wiping edges. If the edges are worn, this can prevent the wiper blade from making strong contact with the windshield and reduces wipe quality.
  • Visible cracks, tears, and missing pieces in the rubber squeegee’s edge.
  • Flex rubber squeegee back and forth to see if it is still flexible. Aged squeegees will have difficulty conforming to the shape of your windshield and create streaks.
  • Tug or lightly pull wiper blade to ensure has been securely installed on the wiper arm. Check that squeegee is secure in the wiper blade frame is in place.
  Why Do Wiper Blades Deteriorate Quickly?Wiper blades deteriorate due to many environmental factors including: Sun: Ultraviolet light and ozone deterioration Oil: Car waxes and exhaust hold rubber-deteriorating oil Airborne debris: Sand, mud and dust carried in the wind Visibility is fundamental to safe driving. Although drivers depend on their vehicles’ wiper blades to clear away rain, sleet and snow, many wait to replace them until they need them the most. Remembering to maintain wiper blades regularly can maximize visibility, efficiency and reliability. Winter is just around the corner, do not wait until you need your wipers during the first frosting and you have missing rubber pieces on the squeegee.   Having doubts about your current wiper blades’ abilities?If you notice you're having trouble clearing water from your windshield, it's time to have your blades replaced. This is a quick and simple process, contact our service center, here. We will be happy to help you. Furthermore, by bringing your vehicle to Jim Shorkey Auto Group for all your service and repair needs, even replacing wiper blades, you can count on a continued driving experience unlike any other - for every single mile of your lease or ownership.  

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Winter Warriors: The Top 5 reliable SUVs for the PA Winters!

When winter arrives, having a reliable and capable SUV becomes essential for navigating through snow-covered roads and icy conditions. In this blog, we'll explore the top 5 SUVs from Kia, Toyota, Jeep, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Chevy, showcasing their winter-ready features and why they stand out in the chilly season. Kia Sorento: The Kia Sorento is a versatile SUV that excels in winter conditions. Available with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, the Sorento provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. With its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features, the Sorento ensures a confident and secure winter driving experience. Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 has long been a favorite for its reliability and practicality. The RAV4 offers an available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring optimal traction in winter conditions. Its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and Toyota's reputation for durability make the RAV4 a top choice for winter adventures. Jeep Cherokee: Jeep has a strong legacy of off-road capabilities, and the Jeep Cherokee continues that tradition. With available Jeep Active Drive 4x4 systems, the Cherokee conquers winter terrains with ease. Its rugged design, advanced technology features, and impressive towing capacity make it a formidable SUV for winter exploration. Mitsubishi Outlander: The Mitsubishi Outlander stands out for its affordability and practicality, making it an excellent choice for winter driving. With an available Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, the Outlander ensures stability and control in challenging conditions. Its spacious interior and third-row seating option make it a family-friendly winter companion. Nissan Rogue: The Nissan Rogue combines a sleek design with winter-ready features. Equipped with an Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, the Rogue adapts to changing road conditions for improved traction. With a comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and a smooth ride, the Rogue is a well-rounded choice for winter commuters. Chevy Equinox: Chevrolet's Equinox offers a compelling package for winter driving. With an available all-wheel-drive system, the Equinox provides stability and control on snow-covered roads. Its practical design, efficient fuel economy, and advanced safety features make it a dependable SUV for winter journeys. Choosing the right SUV for winter driving involves considering factors such as AWD capabilities, safety features, and overall reliability. The Kia Sorento, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Cherokee, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, and Chevy Equinox showcase the strengths of their respective brands in providing winter-ready SUV options. Whether you prioritize off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, or affordability, these SUVs offer a range of choices to suit your winter driving needs. Stay safe and enjoy the winter season with confidence in your chosen SUV. Click here to view our SUV inventory! https://www.jimshorkey.com/searchnew.aspx

Discover the Best Fall Activities in Pittsburgh, PA with Your New Vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, fall is a wonderful time to explore Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding areas. With the convenience of a brand-new vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group, you can embark on exciting fall adventures and make the most of this beautiful season. In this blog, we'll share some of the top fall activities you can enjoy in and around Pittsburgh with your new ride! Scenic Drives One of the best ways to experience the stunning fall foliage in Pittsburgh is by taking scenic drives through the city and surrounding countryside. With your new vehicle, you can easily visit places like Allegheny National Forest, Ohiopyle State Park, and Laurel Highlands. These areas offer breathtaking landscapes and picturesque vistas, making them ideal for a leisurely fall drive. Visit a Pumpkin Patch Fall isn't complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Pittsburgh and its neighboring towns have numerous farms and pumpkin patches where you can pick your own pumpkins. Visit Triple B Farms or Simmons Farms! Load up your new vehicle with your selected pumpkins and enjoy some classic fall decorating and carving when you return home. 3. Fall Festivals Pittsburgh hosts a variety of fall festivals and events that cater to all interests. Whether you're into art, music, or local cuisine, you'll find something to enjoy. From the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival to Asian Lantern Festival, these events are worth attending and are easily accessible with your new vehicle. With your new vehicle from Jim Shorkey Auto Group, you're all set to make the most of the fall season in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. From scenic drives to apple picking, hiking, and enjoying cultural events, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy. So, get behind the wheel and embark on unforgettable fall adventures in the City of Bridges. Happy autumn! Visit JimShorkey.com to view all of our locations and brands that we offer!

How to Prepare Your Car for Winter: Winterization Tips

As winter approaches, it's essential to prepare your vehicle for the cold weather ahead. Freezing temperatures, icy roads, and snowfall can make driving more challenging and even dangerous. To ensure your safety and the optimal performance of your vehicle during the winter months, follow these essential winterization tips. Winter Tires: The Key to Traction Winter tires are designed to excel in cold weather conditions, providing better grip on icy and snow-covered roads. Here's what you need to know: Invest in a set of four winter tires. Using a mix of winter and all-season tires can affect your car's balance and handling. Check the tread depth on your winter tires. Make sure it's at least 6/32 inches for reliable performance. Maintain proper tire pressure by checking and adjusting it regularly. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so ensure it matches the manufacturer's recommendations. Antifreeze and Coolant: Protecting Your Engine Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is vital for maintaining your engine's temperature during frigid conditions. Take these steps: Ensure your vehicle's antifreeze mixture is suitable for winter. A 50/50 blend of antifreeze and water is generally recommended to prevent freezing. Check for any leaks in the cooling system. Leaking coolant can lead to engine overheating, which can be especially problematic in cold weather. Emergency Kit: Be Prepared for the Unexpected It's always wise to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances, especially during winter. Assemble an emergency kit for your vehicle, including: Blankets or warm clothing Non-perishable snacks and water A flashlight and extra batteries Jumper cables Shovel and ice scraper First aid kit Road flares A basic toolkit Portable phone charger Battery Check: Ensure Reliable Starts Cold weather can be tough on your vehicle's battery. To avoid being stranded in the cold, have your battery checked for: Voltage and charging capacity Signs of corrosion on the terminals Connection tightness Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid: Maintain Visibility Clear visibility is crucial when driving in winter weather. Check and replace your windshield wipers if they are worn, and use winter-grade washer fluid to prevent freezing on the windshield. Winterizing your vehicle is a smart investment in safety and reliability during the cold months. These simple yet effective winterization tips will help you navigate winter roads with confidence and peace of mind, ensuring that you're prepared for whatever challenges the season may bring. Stay safe and enjoy your winter adventures!