Get Road Trip Ready
2020 has us all needing a getaway! It’s your last chance to road trip before the kids are back to school or e-learning so plan some fun for the family and hit the open road. Pick a spot on the map and get ready to go with these road trip pro tips PLUS a checklist to get you on your way.
Tidy Up: Even if you’re not a neat freak you’ll want to start with a clean car. Run the vacuum, wipe down the windows, and remove bulky items you won’t need while you’re traveling. If you won’t be golfing you can leave the clubs behind! Don’t forget a roll of paper towels for spills along the way. Ask any Mom, a wet wash cloth in a baggie can save the day! PRO TIP: Pack a few garbage bags to make clean-up a breeze.
Bring Home With: You’ll for sure want to pack some comforts of home for the ride. A long ride is that much better with your favorite blanket, a pillow, and a few essentials like antibacterial wipes and small first aid kit. Remember, good radio and cell service is not always easy to find so have back up tunes saved to your device. PRO TIP: Don’t forget the charging cords. A device with a low battery in the middle of nowhere is what nightmares are made of. Especially if you’re traveling with kids!
Organization is Key: Take a minute to sort through those extra compartments before you go. Make sure you have a current insurance card, your registration info, and know where your AAA card is. If you’re not already a member of AAA or other roadside service club look into it! Peace of mind goes a long way when you’re traveling and need a tow, lock your keys in the car, or the battery dies. PRO TIP: Write down or print a list of phone numbers just in case. If something happens to your phone you’ll be glad you did.
Apps on the Go: Do yourself (and your data plan) a favor and download before you go. There’s a plethora of apps to make your trip easier with real time traffic info, cheap gas finders, and foodie finds along the way. PRO TIP: Roadtrippers.com is both a website and an app so you can take your research with you and discover fun stops along the way.
Snack Attack: Road trip calories don’t count so stock up! It’s literally one of the best parts of taking a road trip. Plan ahead and configure your cooler so it’s accessible and items are easy to grab. If your adventure buddy has four paws don’t forget their treats and water for on the go. Fresh fruit and veggies will balance out the sugar and carbs. PRO TIP: Fill a few water bottles halfway and toss them in the freezer. They’ll act as ice packs for your trip snacks and you’ll have water when you need it!
Ready Your Ride: America is less “on the go” than ever which means your car has been sitting more than usual in 2020. Making sure your ride is in top notch condition will make your trip safer, more enjoyable, and easier on your wallet! Getting your car checked out a week before you plan to leave will give you time to fix any potential issues. Once you hit the road even a quick fix can delay your adventure or leave you stranded with kids, pets, and cranky parents. Let your mechanic know you’re heading out of town and make sure you’re ready to roll. PRO TIP: estimate your fuel funds BEFORE you go? Check out the user-friendly fuel calculator.
Road Trip Maintenance Check List
- Oil Change
- Brake Fluid
- Windshield Wiper Fluid
- Coolant
- Power Steering
- Tire Pressure. Don’t forget your spare!
- Light bulbs including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazards
- Wiper blades are free of tears and in operational condition
- Look for leaks. Placing a large piece of cardboard under your parked vehicle makes it easier to find drips!
At Lou Bachrodt Auto Mall we’re making your trip easier than ever with pickup and drop off services, touchless payment options, and free alignment checks. Make an appointment or call (815)332-3000 to schedule your road trip service today. Most importantly…have fun, make memories, and send us a postcard!
Bachrodt Award
Rachel Bachrodt receiving the award for Excellent Customer Service for Lou Bachrodt Volkswagen. Congrats to Rachel as well as the Lou Bachrodt Volkswagen team for making a great 2017. Lou Bachrodt has in business for over 64 years and we pride ourselves off of making the customer have a great experience as well as vehicle. We want all of our customers to come back and purchase future vehicles. With makes such as Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Volkswagen and BMW we do our utmost best to please and appeal to all demographics.
I’m not sure on the price…
Here at Lou Bachrodt we pride ourselves in making sure that all of our customers get the most out there money when it comes to purchasing a vehicle. If you show interest in a vehicle and actually stop in the dealership our managers have no problem at all when it comes to working with you on the price. We not only want to offer great vehicles but we want to offer a great experience as well. Everything we do is driven by you.
We love Trade – ins
When it comes time for you to purchase your trade in, many are skeptical that they will be low balled and not get what they think they should get as far as value. Trade ins are important because if not upside down, you can use that money towards your down payment of a new vehicle. At Lou Bachrodt we strive in making sure that you leave not only with a new vehicle but a great experience. Being in business since 1953, it makes sense how we have managed and grow as a GM dealer. With monthly specials on Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Volkswagen, BMW and MANY pre-owned brands! The opportunities in saving is endless.
Trade ins
Let’s face it, when you purchase a new vehicle, you aren’t going to keep it for the full term of your loan, especially if its for 60-72 months. That’s when trading your vehicle comes into play. There are so many factors in why trading your vehicle is beneficial. First, your credit was probably low when you first purchased a car so you couldn’t get your dream car. Another reason you are more knowledgeable about cars now can make an educated decision. And there is a plus side, if the value of your trade in, exceeds your estimated pay off, the remaining amount of money can be used as your down payment, so no money out of pocket! Come to Lou Bachrodt where we strive to make sure to give you the most for your trade in vehicle.
Extended Warranties
When purchasing a new or Pre-owned vehicle always make sure your car comes with an extended warranty or one that is available for purchase. This particular warranty differs from your power train warranty. This warranty covers almost anything that doesn’t have to do with the engine. When researching warranties, pay attention to the specifics as far as coverage. People think of extended warranties as an extra bill to pay however, later on down the line they can help prevent you from coming out of pocket any money and help you save thousands!
64 years and Counting!
Lou Bachrodt has been in business for an impressive 64 years. This generational family owned business houses popular makes such as Chevy, Buick, GMC, BMW and Volkswagen. Here in Rockford, we are dedicated to providing our customers with incredible service and a wonderful experience. What’s the trick to our longevity, our great staff and our unique customers. We have customers from all over coming to buy vehicles because of our wide selection. Come to Lou Bachrodt for your next vehicle purchase, our salesman will be ready to assist you. Don’t believe me about our extensive inventory, check out our site at Bachrodt.com and call us now to set up your appointment today! 1.815.332.3000.
Blood Drive
Our annual blood drive is quickly approaching. On Saturday February 10th Lou Bachrodt will be hosting the event from 8am-1:30pm. Over the years, thousands have come out to donate blood to those who have suffered blood loss, or need transfusions of some sort. Come out and help support such a great cause. We encourage everyone in Rockford and neighboring communities to come out and help out, it is greatly appreciated. Thank you those who have helped in the past and those who will be attending this year’s blood drive!
Test Driving
We all want the perfect vehicle, so that means in order to help us achieve that dream car, we have to test drive it. I know what you’re thinking, why test drive a vehicle, they all ride that same. That’s the biggest misconception out there. A rider’s dream car is all about preference. There are many factors that come into play when choosing a vehicle, the color, the size, the build and so much more. One of the most important factors is how does the vehicle drive. How do you feel in the seat? Is the inside too big or small? Does the car accelerate too slowly or quickly? Do you feel 100% comfortable? Test Drives are meant to serve as you getting to know the vehicle. At Lou Bachrodt we encourage test drives on all of our vehicles to ensure you pick the car of your dreams!
Routine Maintenance
Winter time is here guys and let’s face it, we want to make sure we are taking care of our vehicles during the duration of the time that we own the vehicle. That is why regular scheduled maintenance is highly recommended. Winter has harsh weather conditions and is harsh on a vehicle’s exterior and even sometimes the interior of the engine, if not properly maintained. It is important for you to get regular oil changes, fluids checked and tire rotations. These few things will ensure the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle! Come to Lou Bachrodt to get your vehicle serviced!
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