Car-Lotta Credit and Car Sales Blog

The peak foliage season typically arrives in early to mid-October. This is the perfect time to explore the beautiful landscapes and enjoy the vibrant colors of autumn. Pennsylvania's fall foliage is a sight to behold especially when driven along scenic routes. Wet leaves, fog, sun glare, and frost are a few driving hazards they will encounter this fall, but there are steps drivers can take to help make their commutes safer. Be sure to: Increase your following distance at dusk and dawn and when in an area with wet leaves. If you are being tailgated, let the other driver pass. Check your vehicle's headlights, taillights and turn signals to ensure they are working properly since darkness will be a part of many driver's morning or evening commute. Make sure you turn on your headlights as the sunlight fades. Have your vehicle's wiper system checked to ensure it is working properly. Be sure you have tires with sufficient tread depth in case of an early season snow.

The average price for a new vehicle was $49,077 in August 2025, which is up from July ($48,841) and higher by 2.6% over last year. In August, the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for a new vehicle reached $51,099, which is up from the month before. The majority of auto manufacturers posted price increases in August. Sales of electric vehicles reached a record 146,332 in August. The report predicts that we will see a record-high quarter for EV sales in Q3 2025, partially due to the tax credit ending in September. Compact Car $27,015 Compact SUV/Crossover $37,327 Full-Size Car $59,643 Full-Size Pickup Truck $65,602 Luxury Car $60,076 Minivan $47,640 Sports Car $52,969 For a new car, it is recommends aiming to own it for at least 10 years to get the most value out of your purchase. The significant depreciation that occurs in the first few years makes it a poor financial decision to trade in or sell a new car after only a short period.

What does photo-enforced speed limit mean? Fixed radar cameras continuously monitor vehicle speeds in designated areas. If a driver is speeding, the system captures a photo of the vehicle and license plate. Fixed speed cameras are the most likely to flash when they capture an image of a speeding vehicle. These cameras typically use a visible flash to ensure that the image is clear, especially in low-light conditions. However, some modern fixed speed cameras use infrared technology, which does not require a visible flash. It would have to be processed through the agency that monitors the cameras. That means that a police officer must view the video and write the ticket. Then it has to be mailed. That could all take a day or several days, depending on how busy the department is. How to avoid getting a speeding ticket? Maximize Your Sightlines When Driving. ... Identify Highway Patrol Vehicles. ... Know Where Police Officers Patrol. ... Watch for Patrol Motorcycles. ... Consider Patrol Airplanes. ... Don't Stand Out on the Road. ... Can You Get Around a Traffic Ticket? ... Get Legal Help with a Traffic Ticket.

The temperature inside a parked vehicle can increase significantly even on cooler days when the outside temperature is around 70°F. On a sunny day, the temperature inside a car can rise by 40°F in 60 minutes. If the outside temperature is 70°F, the inside temperature can reach 100°F within just 20 minutes under direct sunlight. The increase in temperature is due to the greenhouse effect, where trapped air is heated by sunlight. It's crucial to monitor the temperature inside a parked car, especially during hot weather, to prevent potential dangers such as heat stroke. Knowing the temperature inside a parked car is crucial for safety reasons. High temperatures inside a car can be dangerous, especially for children, pets, and even adults. This calculator is specially designed to understand how quickly the temperature can rise to potentially hazardous levels.

Buying a car is one of the biggest purchases many people make. Does financing a car build credit? The short answer: Yes — it can, if managed responsibly. A car loan can be a powerful tool for boosting your credit score. The average used car or truck now costs $18,577. For many Americans buying a vehicle, auto loans are a necessity. An auto loan can help your credit if you make your monthly payments on time and the lender reports them to major credit bureaus, including Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Here’s how it benefits your credit profile: Opening and managing a loan increases the number of active accounts, which can improve your score over time. On-time payments help build a strong payment history. A car loan adds to your credit mix, showing lenders you can handle different types of credit. If you do finance, make sure to read the auto loan contract thoroughly and request in writing their promise to report your payments to the credit bureaus.

It's started .... the temperatures start getting colder, and the days become shorter. The change in weather and sunlight affects n such as plants and trees, whose leaves start turning red, orange, or yellow before they shed. Wet leaves on the roadway can be as slippery as ice. They also can obscure traffic lines and other pavement markings, making driving in unfamiliar areas particularly difficult. Motorists should slow down and use extra caution on leaf-covered roadways. Here are a few Fall Driving Tips: Turn on Your Headlights If you don’t already have daytime running lamps (they’re also one way to save on your insurance premium) Remain Focused limit Distractions Keep passengers to a minimum. The “passenger effect” is a real danger. Here’s why. Put your phone away; avoid the temptation. If it must be in the driver compartment, turn it to “silent” and put it in your vehicle’s center console or door pocket. Ask others to turn down their phones if you find the “dings” distracting. Avoid Puddles If you must drive through, or partially through a puddle, slow down before you get there. Puddles could easily cause your vehicle to hydroplane, meaning it will skim over the surface of the water, and you’ll lose all control. If there’s a tree, guardrail or pedestrian on the other side of that water when you’ve lost control, the results could be disastrous. Know How to Handle a Skid If you’re skidding, turn the wheel where you want to go, otherwise known as “turning into” the skid. Slow Down / Reduce Speed The faster you’re going, the less control you’ll have. We would have made this item #1, because it’s such an important one, but we hope this is obvious advice. A road covered with wet leaves and rain is no time to rush, or test your high-speed skills. So, slow down a bit and keep a healthy distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Don’t Drive on Worn Tires Just as slippery old shoes could cause you to fall down, worn old tires will lose their grip from the road. Tires are among the most important safety items in your car, by maintaining grip, allowing your vehicle effectively stop and steer clear of obstacles. Don’t neglect them if you want to be able to respond to potential hazards. A good set of tires will keep you, your family other road-goers and pedestrians safe. Not sure what to look for when buying new tires? We can help! Don’t Drive with Poor Wiper Blades. If you can’t see while you’re driving a two-ton vehicle, that is no good. You can easily replace your own wiper blades, or take them to a shop if you aren’t up to. Also, before you get in your vehicle, make certain there are no leaves sitting between your windshield and your wiper blades. Remove them if they are there.

Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Be prepared for the unexpected! It’s important to remember that many people are anxious to get to where they’re going. Their mind is on their destination and not on the drive to their destination. Divers need to watch out for the unexpected. Be sure to give yourself more time. Prior to setting out, make sure to account for additional traffic and road construction. Have alternative routes planned for such instances. Consider traveling during off-peak times. The riskiest time to travel is right after people finish work on Friday afternoons. Driving during off-peak hours means fewer vehicles and less congestion on the roads. Giving yourself extra time to get to your destination helps reduce some of the stress about arriving on time. Watch Out for Distractions. There’s no question that a mobile phone creates a huge distraction for many drivers. Keep your phone silent during your trip. Let your passenger be the co-pilot and do the texting and calls if needed. If driving alone, place your phone somewhere out of reach so that it doesn’t cause distractions. If you need to make a call or check your device, pull over to a safe location first. Knowing how to manage everything from harsh weather to distracted drivers on the roads during holiday weekends provides you with tools that can save lives. Our offices will be closed on Monday, September 1st 2025 so our employees can spend the holiday with their families. We will re open on Tuesday, September 2nd at 9:00 am

In Pennsylvania, the school year typically begins in late August or early September. Many Pennsylvania school districts follow this pattern, with the first day of classes occurring in either August or early September. This timing is consistent with the general start of the school year across the United States. Some districts may start earlier or later, but late August and early September are the most common timeframes. This is your reminder to.......... Slow down. Yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is getting ready to stop ─ slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This includes two and four-lane highways. If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.

Have you ever been late for something or spilled something on yourself? You may have thought about changing in your car. If you are in Sag Harbor New York you may want to think twice before you do! There is actually a law there that makes it illegal to disrobe in your vehicle. This law may have been introduced to dissuade people from getting frisky in the backseat. Considering you don’t need to get fully unclothed to do the deed, maybe they should’ve made a law that’s more explicit. What other strange laws do you know of?

August is National Traffic Awareness Month. August, a month often filled with travel, late-summer events, and end-of-season vacations, unfortunately, sees an increase in alcohol-related traffic accidents. Safe driving is crucial for ensuring that you, those around you, and first responders make it home safely. Our roads are dangerous because many people prioritize speed and distractions over safety and attentiveness. Even if you are the only one in your car, remember that you are not the only one on the road. It's time to prioritize safety on the road. Whether you're a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, staying alert can save lives.It’s a great time to be reminded of driving safety tips! One of the most important rules for safe driving is to maintain a safe following distance, as rear-end collisions are the most common type of accident! August offers key observance: Stop on Red Week- August 4–10 - Stop on Red Week aims to educate the public about the dangers of running red lights. Intersection safety is not just a public traffic issue; it’s a workplace concern for any employee who drives as part of their job. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over August 14 – September 2 -The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, led by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlights the deadly consequences of impaired driving.

It's hard to believe that it is August already- Where is the summer going??? No worries, you still have time to sneak in a road trip or two. No matter where your trip takes you, Having a plan is a hugh help. Start with packing..... Consider using a packing checklist, and try to avoid packing at the last minute to avoid any frustration so that your trip goes off without a hitch. Where do you start when it comes to packing you car? There are multiple things you should consider when packing your vehicle. First is safety. When you’re packing you don’t want to pack up too high in the back. You don’t want to lose visibility through your windows. You should secure loose objects in the back end of the vehicle. If you have to hit the brakes hard, loose items may cause a problem. Trunk organizers can help secure loose items while also providing help with keeping organized. Pack an overnight bag that's accessible if you have multiple stops on your trip. This prevents you from unpacking the entire vehicle for a quick hotel stay or night camping. Be prepared for any situation that arise. Pack an emergency road kit, first aid kit, and extra device charger. Digital navigation is great but if you’re in a remote area and lose service a paper map can help get you to your destination. Ready.... Set.... Travel Safe!

Children and pets are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke because their body temperatures rise much faster than adults. The temperature inside a vehicle can rise dramatically in a short amount of time, even on relatively mild days, making it a dangerous environment for anyone left inside. Heatstroke can occur quickly, leading to serious health consequences, including death. Some automakers include rear occupant alert systems to address concerns over children and pets being left unattended in vehicles. These systems are designed to remind drivers to check the back seat before exiting their car. Always check the back seat: before exiting the vehicle Develop a routine: where you physically look in the back seat every time you exit. Place a vital item: like your phone or purse in the back seat to remind yourself to look before you lock. In Pennsylvania a piece of legislation that was signed a few years s ago called the “Motor Vehicle Extreme Heat Protection Act” better known as the “Hot Car Bill.” The bill went into effect in December 2018. This allows law enforcement or emergency personnel to break into a person’s car if they have a good-faith and reasonable belief that a person or animal is imminent danger if not immediately removed.

First things first. It’s never a good idea to drive on flooded roadways even when you’re caught unexpectedly. The top tip for staying safe when driving during and after rainstorms: don’t drive through standing water. It’s often deeper than it looks.If water splashes up and into your engine compartment, it could stall your vehicle for good. Six inches of water is enough to hit the bottom of most passenger cars, flooding the exhaust and leaving you stranded. If you must, be sure to..... Drive Down the Center Take Turns With Other Cars Only Cross When the Water is Extremely Shallow Drive Slowly Drive in Low Gear If your car floods do not try to restart the engine. It can cause severe damage.

Where is this summer going?? With many schools returning in August or early September, you still have time to squeeze in a summer trip. Remember, destinations that offer cooler temperatures or unique experiences can be ideal. Road trips offer a unique travel experience with benefits, including flexibility, freedom, and opportunities to discover hidden gems. They allow for a more relaxed pace, the ability to explore at your own pace, and the chance to bond with people you travel with. Do you prefer mountains, beaches, or historic towns? Use a navigation app or map to plan your route and identify potential stops along the way. Book in advance: Popular destinations can fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Check road conditions and closures: Some scenic routes may have seasonal closures or restrictions. Pack essentials including sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and any necessary medications.

We thank our brave heroes who fought for the freedom we are enjoying today. Let’s commemorate their memory by spreading goodwill to all. Happy 4th of July to everyone. Our offices will be closed today so our employees can spend the holiday with their families. We will re open on July 5th at 9:00 am

Regular car maintenance is important. Ever wonder how you know when your car needs service? Here are a few signs to look for : Unusual Noises: Listen for any strange sounds while driving, which may indicate mechanical issues. Dashboard Warning Lights: If any warning lights, like the check engine light, illuminate, it’s a sign that your car needs attention. Fluid Leaks: Check for any puddles or spots under your car, which could indicate leaks. Strange Smells: Unpleasant odors, such as burning or sweet smells, can signal problems. Vibrations: If you feel unusual vibrations while driving, it may indicate issues with the tires or suspension. Regularly monitoring these signs can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Keep an eye out for these warning signs the next time you’re behind the wheel!

Hot summers mean battery failures, air conditioning repairs, tire replacements and a higher demand for emergency roadside assistance. Heat interferes with your car’s ability to operate. Fluids evaporate, circulation is diminished, and pretty much everything has to work a little harder. Extreme heat can hinder the chemical processes inside your car battery, making it hard for it to hold a charge and produce enough power. Hot temperatures can even cause your battery fluid to evaporate faster than normal which can degrade the battery’s interior components, making it more likely to corrode. When road temperatures are extremely it may affect tire pressure, which can cause uneven wear and shorten the life of a tire. Driving on underinflated tires can cause tires to overheat and increase the likelihood of a blowout. To avoid heat-related vehicle breakdowns, check your battery at least twice a year. If your battery is running low, change it before it dies. Check tire pressure and condition monthly. Check tire pressure after your car has been resting. Readings are less accurate when evaluated right after a drive.

It's finally starting to feel like summer! Did you know there is a Proper way to us your air conditioning? Air conditioning is great, but you can do more than to turn it on. The way your air conditioner is set up can change how fast your auto cools down. If you want to do cool as quickly and efficiently as possible there are a few things you can do. Make sure the A/C is on the coldest setting, and then that the climate control is set to draw in external air. Then, open the windows slightly, and set the A/C to come out of the lowest vents. Since cold air is heavier than hot air, it’ll make sure the hot air gets pushed up and out of the window. Once the air coming from the vents feels cooler than the outside air, shut the windows and switch to recirculated air. Your A/C will do its thing and keep you nice and cool.

Talking (and scrolling) on your phone while driving will be illegal in Pa. Effective June 5, 2025, the law - known as “Paul Miller's Law” - prohibits the use of hand-held devices while driving, even while stopped temporarily due to traffic, a red light, or other momentary delay. Pennsylvania already enforces a texting-while-driving ban(opens in a new tab) that prohibits drivers from using mobile devices to send, read, or write text-based communications while their vehicle is in motion. Beginning June 5, 2025, law enforcement will begin issuing written warnings for violations. For more information you can visit the official website of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at www.PennDOT.pa.gov/safety

The metal logo on a car is commonly called a hood ornament, car mascot, or emblem. It's a decorative element, often placed on the hood or grille, that identifies the car manufacturer. They were originally used to disguise the radiator cap and add a touch of luxury and style to vehicles. They also served as a decorative element and a way for automakers to communicate their brand's identity and communicate speed, power, or prestige.In the early days of automobiles, radiator caps were functional but not aesthetically pleasing. Hood ornaments helped to mask their appearance and create a more visually appealing front end. The shapes and designs of hood ornaments were inspired by various sources, including animals, mythological figures, and the automakers' logos. Automakers use hood ornaments to differentiate their vehicles and convey a specific image. Some have become synonymous with luxury and prestige, many are seen as a symbol of wealth and status. Some hood ornaments, like those on heavy trucks, served a more practical purpose, such as helping with lane positioning or providing a visual cue for drivers.

Remembering the Fallen. Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. In other words, the purpose of Memorial Day is to memorialize the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. We spend time remembering those who lost their lives and could not come home, reflecting on their service and why we have the luxury and freedom that we enjoy today. We might consider how we can support and safeguard their grieving families and loved ones who are left behind. Car-Lotta Car Sales will be closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of the holiday. We will re open on Tuesday, May 27th at 9:00 am.

Operation Yellow Jacket is back! PennDOT and PSP are working together to keep Pennsylvania highways safe for all motorists and maintenance crews. Troopers monitor traffic in PennDOT maintenance trucks traveling within PennDOT’s designated work zones. If the trooper observes a violation, they communicate to another trooper in a marked PSP patrol unit to initiate a traffic stop. Last year 1,250 crashes occurred in work zones in Pennsylvania – resulting in 22 fatalities and 550 serious injuries. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania State Police are reminding motorists about Operation Yellow Jacket and the importance of slowing down in work zones throughout this year’s construction season.

Life can get busy, and sometimes that means eating on the go. You can be on your comute to work, running some errands, or on a road trip, eating in the car can be a convenient way to fuel up when time is limited. With so many fast food options and long commutes, it's no surprise that most people eat behind the wheel on a regular basis. Recent surveys show around 56.7% of Americans regularly eat or drink while driving. When it comes to eating in the car, not all foods are equal. Some are easier to manage and less likely to cause a mess than others. Choose foods that are: Easy to eat with one hand Neat and non-greasy Not prone to crumbling Pre-portioned for convenience Some great options include pre-cut fruits and vegetables, sandwiches, wraps, and snack bars.

Americans waste a lot of their lives in traffic, with the average urban auto commuter spending 35 hours a year idling It's understandable to feel frustrated with traffic, as it can be a source of stress and wasted time. Traffic often stems from a high volume of vehicles on the road. While there's no magic solution to eliminate traffic completely, there are strategies you can use to manage the stress and potentially mitigate its impact. Manage Stress and Stay Calm: Listen to music or podcasts: Engage in activities that can help you relax and de-stress while stuck in traffic. Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing or meditation can help you manage anxiety and frustration. Focus on the positive: Try to find something enjoyable about your commute, even if it's just enjoying the scenery or the sounds of nature.

When the sun is shining in the middle of a gorgeous summer day, you may want to be out and about in your car. Did you know that the blazing sun may actually be bad for your car's exterior? Excessive sunlight can cause damage to car paint. UV rays from the sun break down the chemical bonds in paint, leading to fading, oxidation, and sometimes peeling. Darker paint colors, like black, red, or blue, are particularly susceptible to damage. UV rays impact automotive finishes by Paint Fading which ccurs as UV radiation alters paint pigments. Oxidation which is caused by the breakdown of paint’s chemicaol compounds, leading to a dull and lifeless surface. Indications of UV damage include: Color Fading: Paint color appears less vibrant and uneven. Surface Oxidation: A chalky, dull surface replaces the glossy finish. Small Cracks: Tiny fissures may form on the vehicle’s surface. Protecting your car’s paint from the sun’s harmful rays not only keeps it looking pristine but also preserves the overall value of your vehicle. Try and park the car in a shaded spot or under cover so it is not in direct sunlight.