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How A Few Accidents Made Cars Safer

 

When you think about cars, you might picture powerful engines, shiny paint, and stylish designs. But some of the most important features in your vehicle today didn’t come from careful planning, they started with slips, spills, and a few surprising turns of fate. Little mistakes that ended up making driving a lot safer.

A Little Kitchen Mishap

Charles Goodyear had been struggling to tame natural rubber. It melted in the heat and cracked in the cold, completely unreliable. One day while experimenting, he dropped a mix of rubber and sulfur onto a hot surface. Instead of turning into a sticky mess, it charred but stayed strong and springy. That accident became the process of vulcanization, the foundation for the tough, weatherproof tires that grip the road under every car today. Today’s tires go even further: engineered tread patterns, silica compounds, and built-in pressure sensors all work together to keep drivers safe on wet, snowy, and scorching roads.

A Broken Flask

A French chemist once dropped a glass flask that had been coated with a thin plastic film. To his surprise, it cracked but didn’t shatter into dangerous shards. That stumble inspired the idea of laminating glass with a protective layer, which evolved into the safety glass in every windshield. Modern windshields don’t just stay intact in a crash they also block UV rays, reduce noise, and even host sensors for lane-keeping systems and heads-up displays.

The Cylinder Surprise

While working with gases used in refrigeration, chemists left a cylinder pressurized overnight. When they opened it, the gas was gone, replaced by a slippery, waxy solid coating on the inside of the container. This new material was polytetrafluoroethylene, better known as Teflon. It later found its way into seals, hoses, and coatings that reduce friction and prevent dangerous leaks in engines. Today, advanced materials like this make sure engines run smoothly and reliably, even under extreme conditions.

I Can See Clearly Now the Rain Is Gone…

Mary Anderson once noticed a streetcar driver leaning out and stopping constantly to wipe rain off the windshield by hand. She thought: there has to be a better way. Her swinging arm with a rubber blade was the first windshield wiper. Now, cars use rain sensors that automatically adjust the wipers so drivers can focus on the road.

Objects in Mirror May Appear Closer…

At the Indianapolis 500, a driver wanted to race without a passenger to watch his back. He strapped a small mirror to his dashboard, giving birth to the rearview mirror. That quick fix is now a high-tech feature, often equipped with blind-spot monitoring, auto-dimming glass, and rear cameras.

A Soft Landing in a Hard Crash

After a close call, an engineer imagined using compressed air to soften the blow inside a car. His sketch of an inflatable cushion turned into the first airbag concept. Today’s airbags deploy in milliseconds, adapt to crash severity, and even include side-curtain versions that protect everyone in the vehicle.

A Cat’s Gaze in the Dark

A road engineer noticed how a cat’s eyes reflected headlights at night. That little observation sparked the invention of reflective studs for roads known as “cat’s eyes.” The idea grew into reflective lane paint, LED markers, and adaptive headlights that turn with the steering wheel, all designed to keep night driving safe.

Cars Are Safer Today

Cars may have roots in chance discoveries, but it’s no accident that modern vehicles are safer than ever. What began as dropped flasks, overheated rubber, and odd observations has become:

  • Tires engineered for grip in any weather.

  • Windshields that stay intact under impact.

  • Wipers and mirrors that do the thinking for you.

  • Airbags, sensors, and cameras ready to protect you in milliseconds.

We know cars aren’t just machines, they’re the result of human creativity, trial and error, and the constant push for safety. That’s why we’re proud to offer vehicles packed with the latest safety features, designed to keep you and your family secure on every trip. Explore our car inventory, estimate your vehicle’s value with our trade-in tool, or get pre-approved quickly with our credit application

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How SUVs Have Evolved from Utility to Luxury

Comfort, Capability, and Beyond

When the first SUVs rolled onto the scene decades ago, they weren’t built to turn heads. They were built to work hard. Farmers used them in the fields. Adventurers trusted them to get down muddy trails. Families packed them up for camping trips. These vehicles were simple, tough, and designed with one purpose in mind: utility.

Fast-forward to today, and the SUV is almost unrecognizable. Step into a modern SUV, and you’re greeted with leather-trimmed interiors, panoramic sunroofs, cutting-edge tech, and even massaging seats. Somewhere along the way, the SUV went from being a tool to being a statement — from rugged practicality to rolling luxury suites on wheels.

The Early Days: All About Capability

In their early years, SUVs were known for four-wheel drive, strong towing power, and rugged frames. Comfort was secondary. They were vehicles you didn’t mind getting dirty, because that’s exactly what they were made for.

Families Changed Everything

By the 90s, a shift started happening. Families began trading in their minivans for SUVs that offered extra space, safety, and versatility. Suddenly, the SUV wasn’t just about off-road adventures — it was about road trips, school drop-offs, and everyday life. Automakers responded by making SUVs more comfortable and easier to drive, while still keeping their power.

The Luxury Boom

Then came the turning point: luxury automakers entered the SUV market. Suddenly, you could get premium sound systems, plush interiors, and advanced technology all wrapped in the practical SUV package. An SUV wasn’t just a family hauler anymore — it became a status symbol.

Today: The Best of Both Worlds

Now, SUVs sit at the top of the automotive world. Whether you want something that can handle the mountains, sip fuel efficiently, or rival a luxury sedan in comfort, there’s an SUV out there for you. Features like hands-free driving aids, huge touchscreens, heated steering wheels, and hybrid or electric options make them more appealing than ever.

At our dealership, we see it every day — shoppers who want the strength and space of an SUV, but also the comfort and style of a luxury car. Today’s SUVs let you have it all.

The Road Ahead

The future of SUVs is only getting brighter. With more electric SUVs, smarter technology, and sustainable design, they’ll continue to evolve in ways that surprise us. But one thing hasn’t changed: the SUV still promises versatility, whether you’re headed to the mountains, across the city, or just around the corner.

Ready for Your Next Car?

The SUV’s journey from rugged utility to refined luxury shows just how far the automotive world has come. And no matter what kind of SUV you’re looking for — something adventurous, something family-friendly, or something downright luxurious — there’s never been a better time to find one.

Ready to experience the evolution of SUVs for yourself?

  • Browse our inventory to find the SUV that fits your lifestyle.

  • Thinking about upgrading? Value your trade and see how easy it is to get behind the wheel of your next SUV.

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Easy, Enjoyable Steps to Keep Your Vehicle Looking

DIY Car Detailing Tips to Make Your Ride Shine

There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping into a freshly detailed car. The way the sun hits the polished hood, the fresh scent inside, the clean lines—it’s more than just aesthetics. It’s about taking care of something you rely on every day and making the driving experience feel a little more special.

The good news? You don’t need professional equipment or hours of free time to make your car shine. With a few simple tools and a little intention, you can get your vehicle looking (and feeling) like new—right in your own driveway.

Start with a Gentle, Thoughtful Wash

Your detailing routine starts with how you wash. Many people grab the dish soap and an old sponge—but that can actually damage your paint over time.

Instead, reach for a pH-balanced car shampoo and use the two-bucket method: one for clean soapy water, the other for rinsing your mitt. It helps prevent swirls and scratches. Finish with a soft microfiber towel for drying.

Want to take things up a notch? Use a clay bar after your wash. It lifts tiny particles stuck to your paint, leaving a silky-smooth finish and prepping the surface for wax or sealant.

Bring the Inside Back to Life

Interior detailing doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by removing clutter and giving everything a thorough vacuum—under seats, in door pockets, and in seat crevices.

Use a soft brush to dust vents, controls, and trim edges. For fabric seats and carpets, a portable steamer can work wonders. If you’ve got leather seats, choose a conditioner that hydrates without leaving them slick or shiny.

Little details like wiping down your door jambs, cup holders, and console gaps really make the space feel refreshed.

Protect What You’ve Cleaned

Once everything sparkles, protect it so it stays that way.

  • Use UV protectant on your dash and trim to help prevent fading and cracking—especially important in sunny months.

  • Apply a fabric or leather protector to keep spills and dirt from setting in.

  • Don’t forget the glass—clean inside and out with a streak-free solution for a crystal-clear finish.

Don’t Overlook the Wheels and Tires

Clean wheels can completely change how your car looks. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and brush to remove brake dust and grime, and rinse well.

To finish, apply a tire dressing. Choose one that adds a subtle, natural sheen (not a greasy gloss), and look for formulas that won’t sling onto your paint when you drive.

Give It a Shine That Lasts

There’s something satisfying about stepping back and seeing your car truly shine.

A classic wax still works beautifully, but there are also spray sealants and ceramic coatings that offer longer-lasting protection with easier application. Choose what suits your style—just make sure to apply it in the shade and use clean microfiber applicators for even coverage.

These products don’t just look great—they help your car stay cleaner longer and protect against sun, water, and dirt.

For Families with Kids or Pets

If your vehicle carries kids, pets, or both, here are a few tricks that make clean-up easier and more sustainable:

  • Lint rollers and pet hair remover gloves work well on seats and carpets.

  • Keep microfiber cloths and gentle all-purpose cleaner in the glove box for quick messes.

  • Use kick mats or washable seat covers to protect the back of your seats from little feet.

  • A handheld vacuum is a great investment if you’re always on the go.

Small habits like these can go a long way in keeping your cabin fresh and family-friendly.

Summer Detailing Tips

Summer is the perfect time to refresh your car, but it’s also a season that can be tough on your vehicle.

  • UV rays can fade paint and crack dashboards—so make sure to use protectants regularly.

  • Heat and dust settle into your interior quickly. A weekly wipe-down with a damp microfiber cloth helps keep it clean.

  • Parking in the shade or using a sunshade can dramatically reduce heat buildup inside.

  • Apply a ceramic spray or wax during the summer to help protect against sun, bugs, and bird droppings.

This is also a great season for a full interior refresh. Open up the doors, let the breeze in, and give your car a full top-to-bottom clean.

Make It a Habit, Not a Hassle

Detailing doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it can actually be relaxing and rewarding. A simple routine every few weeks—just 30 minutes here or there—can make your vehicle feel great all year round. It’s a small investment of time that pays off every time you open the door.

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The Secret Life of a Crash Test Dummy

What Vehicle Safety Ratings Really Mean — and Why They Matter

We’ve all seen the commercials featuring celebrities — the dramatic voiceovers, the cinematic car stunts, and the promises of cutting-edge safety. But behind the star power is a different kind of performer: the crash test dummy.

These silent figures have been at the center of automotive safety for decades — not just in labs, but in ad campaigns, public service announcements, and even pop culture. In a way, they’re the movie stars of car safety, taking the hits so we don’t have to.

But there's more to their role than dramatic slow-motion crashes. Every test they endure helps engineers improve design, inform safety ratings, and ultimately save real lives on real roads.

Why Were Vehicle Safety Ratings Created?

Before the late 1970s, car buyers had little way of knowing how well a vehicle would protect them in a crash. That changed in 1979, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). The goal? Make safety visible to consumers and encourage automakers to improve.

Not long after, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) began its own testing program, often going beyond federal standards. By publicly grading vehicles, these organizations pushed the industry to prioritize safety—and helped transform how cars are designed.

Who Provides Vehicle Safety Ratings?

Today, two main organizations provide safety ratings you’ll often see:

  • NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration): Uses a 5-star system to rate overall safety, as well as specific categories like frontal crash, side crash, and rollover.

  • IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety): Grades vehicles as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor based on detailed crash tests and advanced safety system performance.

These groups conduct rigorous evaluations in controlled crash environments to simulate real-world accidents.

What Do the Tests Measure?

Each test is designed to show how well a vehicle protects passengers in different crash scenarios. Key areas include:

  • Frontal crash tests (head-on collisions)

  • Side-impact tests (T-bone collisions)

  • Rollover resistance

  • Roof strength

  • Head restraint and seat evaluations for whiplash protection

IIHS also examines advanced safety technologies such as:

  • Automatic emergency braking (AEB)

  • Lane departure warnings

  • Forward collision alerts

  • Headlight effectiveness

How Safety Ratings Drive Innovation

Safety ratings haven’t just informed buyers—they’ve driven innovation. In response to crash test data and stricter evaluation criteria, automakers have developed and improved many critical safety features, including:

  • Crumple zones that absorb impact energy

  • Side-impact airbags

  • Reinforced roof structures

  • Whiplash-reducing seats

  • Automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems

How to Compare Safety Ratings

When comparing vehicles, it’s smart to check both NHTSA and IIHS ratings. Look for 5-star scores from NHTSA and “Good” ratings across key categories from IIHS. Bonus points go to vehicles earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ designation.

Keep in mind: a high safety score doesn’t mean you’re invincible—it just means the vehicle is designed to better protect you when something goes wrong.

Smart Features. Thoughtful Design. 

We understand that safety is a key consideration for many drivers. That’s why we offer a wide range of vehicles equipped with advanced safety technologies and intelligent design features that reflect decades of research and innovation.

Of course, safety still starts with you. Even the most well-equipped vehicle can’t replace attentive driving—so always buckle up, stay alert, and use your vehicle’s features as intended. Browse our inventory online or visit us in person. We’re here to help you explore vehicles that fits your lifestyle and budget

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The Goldilocks Guide to Buying a Used Truck

Not Too Old, Not Too New — Find One That's Just Right!

Buying a truck isn’t just about picking a make or model — it’s about finding the right balance. On one end are vintage classics that are prized by collectors — vehicles that are more about nostalgia and rarity than everyday practicality. On the other end are brand-new models with the latest features, sleek design, and hefty price tags to match.

Go too old, and you might be paying a premium for something better suited for a car show than a job site. Go too new, and you are paying extra for features that showed up just a few years earlier. That’s why more buyers are looking to the middle — trucks that are just a few years old. These offer modern design, proven reliability, and far better value than either extreme. Not too old, not too new — just right.

Too Old: The Collector’s Corner

There’s no denying the charm of a classic truck. Older models from the 1960s, ’70s, and even the early ’80s have a certain nostalgic appeal. Restored examples often draw attention at car shows, and some sell for eye-popping figures at auctions .If an older truck doesn’t quite fit your day-to-day needs, you might look to something newer — but that has its own considerations.

Too New: The Showroom Premium

Modern trucks come packed with cutting-edge features — large touchscreens, advanced driver-assist systems, wireless connectivity, and sleek styling. For some buyers, those upgrades are tempting.

But all that newness comes at a price. New trucks offer a lot — the latest design updates, brand-new technology, and full factory warranties. But they also come with higher upfront costs, which isn’t the right fit for every buyer. Many of the same features available in current models — like towing aids, advanced safety systems, and infotainment tech — began showing up just a few years ago. For shoppers focused on value, that opens up the possibility of getting many of the same benefits in a slightly older truck, often at a more accessible price.

Just Right: The Smart Zone

For many buyers, the best choice isn’t found at the ends of the spectrum — it’s in the middle. Trucks that are just a few years old offer a strong combination of modern features, reliable performance, and better overall value.

These models often include the same capabilities that matter most to truck owners — towing strength, off-road handling, updated safety systems, and in-cabin tech — but without the higher price tag of a brand-new vehicle. And because they've been on the road for a few years, there’s a track record of performance and reliability to go by.

Whether you need a dependable work truck, something for hauling gear on the weekends, or a daily driver that still feels current, this “Goldilocks zone” is where quality and value meet.

Find the Truck That’s Just Right

You don’t have to choose between a high-priced new model and a classic that belongs in a garage. Trucks that are just a few years old strike the right balance — modern enough to meet today’s expectations, proven enough to offer peace of mind, and priced with value in mind.

If you’re looking for a truck that’s capable, comfortable, and budget-conscious, the sweet spot is out there — and we can help you find it. Browse our current inventory or stop by to take a closer look. We’ll help you find the one that’s just right for you.

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We help with Building or Rebuilding your Credit

We have been successfully helping people build and rebuild the credit for over 20 yrs. We have options for every credit situation and Guaranteed Credit Approvals. We can help you get a great reliable vehicle if you are just starting out and have no past credit all the way up to situation involving bankruptcy and past repossessions. We also don't put you in old mechanically flawed vehicles. Many of our customers leave with top quality brands like Honda, Toyota, Mazda, Lexus and Acura. Every vehicle is inspected and ready to do. It does not leave here needing brakes, oil change or even things like a check engine light on. We can help you on a path that builds your credit file in a positive way. Gone are the days were you have to visit a dealership that has a less than desirable reputation or high pressure sales tactics. From the moment you fill out the simple credit application, you will be promptly greeted by Jennifer. She has almost 30 yrs of experience and truly cares about each and every one of her customers. If you have ever shopped anywhere else, you WILL see the difference. Most every one of our vehicles are highly sought after quality and dependable vehicles. There is a reason why people seek after names like Toyota and Honda. They are built to last. Feel free to call us or just visit our homepage and click on the button that says Start Here under the words. We Help With Financing. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Buy from a Large New Car Dealer or Small Car Lot

It seems the mindset of the majority of used car shoppers is to buy a used vehicle from a large dealership that sells new and used vehicles.  Buying a used vehicle from anywhere is chock full perils and most people are looking to limit getting taken buying a bad vehicle.   Does buying at a large dealership really limit your exposure to buying a bad vehicle?   Used car salesman have bad reputation right from the start.  There can be bad salespeople at any size establishment.  Things that make it worse are lies, high pressure and the overall bad vibe from either the person or the vehicle.   I am going to point out several things that will give you more insight on how to avoid buying the wrong vehicle and maybe some things to think about on where to buy your next vehicle.
First I would like to point out that buying at a large dealer that sells new and used vehicles does not guarantee your deal will be hassle free nor does it guarantee that your car will be the right one for you or that it is mechanically sound. People think that at a big dealer that has a big service department that the used vehicle must be a good one.  It surely must have been inspected, fixed properly and fully ready to be put on the lot.   That is not always the case.  I worked at a dealership that when they bought or traded in a used vehicle they had a mechanic in the service department inspect the vehicle.  Normally these guys are not the same mechanics that are working on the new vehicles.  They do the inspection and come up with a list of things that the vehicle needs.  They hand that list to the used car manager who then decides which stuff they fix and which stuff they don't.   I can tell you from experience that there were vehicles on the lot that needed repairs and were done to keep the cost down.  It is easy to tell when a vehicle needs brakes or tires.  Most customers can tell by looking or driving.   Things that are less obvious or can't be seen or heard on a test drive are often left out of being handled. 
The next misconception is that all or most small used car dealerships are crooks or shady.   There definitely are a lot of bad ones out there so I can see how this one is easy to be in the front of your mind.  One thing that all dealers have in common is the fact that they want to make lots of profit and spend as little as possible.  Finding the right car is the most important thing that should be considered when looking for a vehicle.  Finding the right dealership is probably second.  Having a great dealership experience but buying the wrong car for too much money will still leave you in a very bad position in the end.  
Here are some things to remember and think about before buying your next used vehicle.
#1-In almost every Large dealership they have everyone get paid commission.  They need to keep profit margins high since several people are taking a piece of the action.  It is easy know understand that the salesperson takes a commission and maybe the used car sales manager but what most people don't understand it that other people are taking some of the profit. People like the Finance Manager, New Car Manager, General Manager, Owner, Office Manager and in some instances the Parts and Service Managers.
#2- smaller used car lots have less overhead and many don't have commissioned sales people.  They can have lower prices on the same used vehicles because they don't need all that extra profit for commissions and high building expenses.
#3 - Always have a vehicle inspected by someone you select.  Even if it is at a large dealership claiming their service dept already did a full inspection.  Remember it is not about what they did fix or maintain.  It is about what the vehicle still needs now(things they did not do) or things that it may need in the near future.  There is nothing wrong with taking it to have a second non biased opinion.  Any dealership that objects..........just walk away.
#4 If you have good/great credit you may want to avoid going to places that advertise Guaranteed Financing for Everyone.    I could write a whole blog this topic and why......Do yourself a favor and don't waste your time. There is not much good that will come out it for you.  Cars will be in disappointing condition and your experience will be less than desirable.
#5 - Avoid the dealers that need get your attention by crazy commercials, unrealistic deals advertised or junk mail that state " We need your trade.....Please bring in your 2005 PT Cruiser for Top Dollar" or even Test Drive for Free Gift - Win a Car!  I am surprised at how often people fall for this garbage.  No one ever has a key that fits the winning car.  They really don't need your old worn out trade.   You get the point.  NEVER FALL FOR THIS STUFF.....EVER
#6 - Read Google Reviews.  This no sure fire way to guarantee that you will get the right vehicle with a no hassle experience but it could save you time from going to a bad dealer.  You may see dealers that have lots of great reviews and a few bad ones.  What you want to look for is what the bad ones says.   It is easy for a dealership to encourage happy customers to write a quick review so that the bad ones get less noticed.  What is important to see what happened in the bad ones.  If several people write that their transmission or engine went out soon after they bought the vehicle then it should be concerning.  Clearly they do sell bad vehicles.  I have also seen lots of reviewers state that they were clearly mislead or the dealer never mentioned huge issues with the History Report.  Seeing lots of people complain about buying a vehicle with bad Accidents, Airbags Deployed, Salvage Title, Canadian or other major history report issues means they purposely buy these vehicles in order to maximize profits and take advantage of people. No matter how many good reviews that they may have does not make up for the fact they have and will sell bad vehicles to people when they can get away with it.  This is the perfect example of wrong car and wrong dealership.
#7 - Always look at the Carfax or at the very least Autocheck. Make sure the VIN on the report matches the VIN on the car.  Reading and fully understanding the history report way more involved than just seeing Owners and Accidents.  This will probably be another blog topic I will explain more in detail. Everyone likes One Owner No Accident Vehicles but in reality that does make it a better or nicer vehicle.  It is still important to look the car over and have it inspected.  Not everything shows up on the history report.  Unless the car is priced 40-50% off the Retail Value you will want to avoid: Salvage Title, Total Loss, Mileage Inconsistent Issue, Accidents involving Airbags Deployed, Vehicles that spent their life in Canada and Lemon Law Buyback.
#8 - Do some online research on the model you are considering.  It is easy to find certain years or models that have major mechanical defects that should be avoided.  
#9 - Avoid putting too much faith when different websites tell you a certain vehicles is a "Great Price" or "Good Deal"  Often they are missing options, have bad history reports, body damage, mechanical issues or even smell like smoke.  There is absolutely no way for a website to know what condition the car is in.  Since condition has a huge impact on value, how could they possibly know if something is a good deal or not.
Once you tackle some of these important tips you will get a general sense on what dealers not to waste your time with and which ones are worth a closer look.  You might be surprised to find a few small dealers that really can give you a Hassle Free Experience on a vehicle that has a great history report and is in above average condition both physically and mechanically............all at prices that beat the big guys hands down.

Why you should avoid buying a Canadian Vehicle

This was originally written in 2018 but still valid today....maybe even more so. You will often see in my used car listings that my vehicle is NOT Canadian.  I get asked quite often why I say that or why shouldn't they buy a Canadian used vehicle.    Over the last year there has been an excessive amount of Canadian used cars flooding the U.S. market.   These cars are being brought to many US Auto Auctions and dealers are buying them for their inventory.   Dealers like to buy them because often they are significantly less expensive than the exact same one that was made for and spent its life in the U.S.  These same dealers can make  hundreds even thousands of dollars more when they convince you to buy one.  Don't make a $2,000 mistake.  Here are a few things to consider.
#1 Canada has a much harsher climate the here in Michigan.  Many people would rather buy a vehicle that did not come from a northern state let alone from an even higher northern country.   I have seen many of these come from very rural areas of Canada like Nova Scotia and Newfoundland( island). Two months ago I had a customer considering one of our vehicles and another one down the road at another dealer that was $500 less.  I pointed out it was missing a few options and Canadian(from Newfoundland).  I then pointed out that the brake lines all had recently been replaced.  I have been selling used cars for over 23 years and have never changed all the brake lines on a 4 year old vehicle because of corrosion.  I am positive there were other items that were probably needing replacing very soon.  Once corrosion and rust starts it is very hard if not impossible to stop.
#2 These vehicles were not made to be sold the the U.S. Market.  The USA and Canada have different standards for their vehicles.  I am positive these may be very minor differences and not be all that concerning but nonetheless  it could also effect things like recalls and Service Bulletins.   Even warranties could be affected.   I have seen manufactures replace defective parts or extend the warranty for known issues.  Many times these are only in effect when in their home country.   Vehicle features and options may also be packaged quite differently in these vehicles.
#3 Carfax-  Now this is a bigger factor than most people realize.  Everyone wants to see the Carfax before they buy a used car.....and even if you don't, I implore you do INDEED LOOK AT THE CARFAX.  Carfax has been in the US market for over 20 year and is not perfect by any means.  Carfax has only recently been in the Canadian market for a very short time.   They are just now setting up their sources for all the information you find on the report.   A vehicle from Canada may be missing very important data that Carfax just doesn't have yet.   Most consumers would rather not buy a vehicle that has had 3 owners or been in a bad accident.    If Carfax does not have the data source yet, you could be buying a vehicle with an truly unknown vehicle history report even when the Carfax states One Owner(or is blank) and lists no accidents reported.   It may be a few years before Carfax has everything up to date on vehicles from Canada.  Until then......it might not be worth the risk.
#4 Resale Value - here is another point that can really impact you later down the road.  If Canadian cars are not all the desirable now and have a lower value today, just think  what this will mean when you want to sell or trade it in a few years from now.  It could bring hundreds to thousands of dollars less.  There are some people(and even dealers like me) that have no desire to have a Canadian vehicle at any price.   It could make it harder to get rid of down the road.  The last thing you want is to buy a vehicle today and then find out Carfax finally added an accident to the history report and no one wants your car because it is Canadian.
#5 This point is rather small but worth noting.  Right now there is enough of a used car shortage to make the prices of used cars a little higher than normal.   Cars that are in Higher Demand sell pretty quickly and dealers can make higher than average profits.  Do you think that Canada is sending us their good ,Above Average, high demand, higher profit and quick selling vehicles?  Of course not.  They are sending us the ones they can't sell in Canada.  Ones from rural areas of Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and other cities with inventory just sitting around.   If they don't want that car in Canada......do you really want it here?
In the end it is your choice on which used car to purchase.  Make sure you have all the facts and don't let a salesman sugarcoat the process or the vehicle.   If something feels off, walk away and look into it a bit more.  Don't make a $2000 mistake if you can help it.

Good Price does not equal Good Deal

I recently had a customer in my showroom that was looking at one of my vehicles. They mentioned they wanted to look at another vehicle at a different dealership because it was $1,000 less than mine. It was marked Good Price on both Autotrader and Cargurus.com. I asked what the Carfax history report looked like and they admitted they did not know. I told them that often vehicles that are priced less than they should be usually have a major reason why.  We looked it up and found out that the Carfax showed 2 accidents and 4 owners. I mentioned that no two vehicle conditions are the same and what can appear to be 2 vehicles that look exactly the same on paper(miles, options, yr) can really be vastly different based on condition.  Just the fact that the carfax showed 4 owners and two accidents already told me that my 1 owner and no accident vehicle was certainly worth the $1,000 price difference. I told them that the other vehicle was probably average or slightly below average in condition and may also need mechanical issues handles.  They were still hopeful and wanted to go see it before making a decision. Several days later they came back and we talked about the other dealer's vehicle. They told me it was indeed in rough condition. Both bumpers looked horrible with scuffs, scratches and deformed plastic. Tires were needing replacing and it clearly smelled foul inside......not smoke but very bad. The other dealership recently got the vehicle and bought it at an auction that is know for selling below average condition vehicles. Since it was so recent I was actually able to see what it sold for at the auction.  That dealer paid $3,000 less for it than I paid for mine. Mine had a condition rating of Above Average and theirs was rated Below Average. Even though they bought it for significantly less they were still trying to sell it for a premium price.  Most dealers are only concerned about how cheap they can buy a vehicle and how much money they can sell it for. They usually skimp on important things like maintenance and repairs just so they can have a price advantage over another dealer. In reality that other vehicle should have been price $3,000 less than mine. Having a fair price on a vehicle that is in outstanding condition both physically and mechanically is MORE important than having a "Good Price" on something that is a huge mess and a complete waste of peoples time. The value of something is a lot more than just the price. You have to factor in so many other things(condition being the most important) that on paper it is hard to figure out.  Don't feel like you have to run out and see the cheapest vehicles on the interest....most of the time you will realize why it is priced the way it is. ALWAYS see the Carfax BEFORE visiting the dealer. It can usually save you time.

The real story on many of those Great Deals

Here is a perfect example of what looks like a "Great Deal" on paper but in reality is not only a horrible deal but one you would want to avoid and never ever consider buying.   Take a look at this vehicle.  It was being sold at a dealership in Grand Rapids.  It was listed on Cargurus.com as a Great Deal.  It had many people that "saved" it as one of their favorites.  The problem is that it really is a vehicle with some serious issues.   On Cargurus.com they really don't ever show you the history report.  They tell you they use AutoCheck History Reports but they don't show you any of the data.  You have to pay for it.  Autocheck also misses quite a bit of stuff that Carfax does not.  In this example Autocheck said there were no issues.   Now take a look at the Carfax and see if this is something you would buy.
What the Carfax is showing is pretty bad. Most people want to buy a nice One Owner vehicle.  This Yukon has had 4 owners. People hate buying vehicles that have been in an Accident.  This vehicles has had 2 - one with Airbags deployed.  Both seem pretty bad.  Buying a vehicle that spent its life in Canada is not a good thing. Buying a vehicle that spent time as a Rental Car is also not a good thing.  This Yukon has BOTH.  Another thing that is very bad is Mileage Inconsistency or Odometer Rollback.  Carfax show a potential issue with this as well.  If all of this was not bad enough, the vehicle has some huge mechanical issues. It needed major repairs just to be road worthy.  Many people spent their time going and looking at this vehicle because it was listed as a great price.  They all walked away from it because it looked bad and drove bad.  They didn't even get to see the Carfax with all of the other issues.  After a couple of months the dealer lowered the price and fixed some of the obvious issues but left many others. The vehicle sat and sat with everyone looking that came to look at it running for the door.  The vehicle sat on the lot for over 400 days.  
Just because a site like Cargurus.com tells you something is a Great Deal and priced $2,528 below market price does not mean it is so.  This vehicle would have still been a horrible deal for someone even if it were priced $5,000 lower.  No one should ever consider buying a vehicle like this.  It checks off almost every Red Flag and could not get any worse.  Sites like this are not doing consumers any favors.  In fact they are making it worse.  Buyers are filtering out vehicles that say Fair Deal or Good Deal and only focusing on the ones that say Great Deal.  If they visit the dealer and assume the Carfax is fine or never ask to see it they could be buying a vehicle with major issues and spending thousands more than they should.  Dealers want to be shown on these site as deals but in order to show up like that they have to NOT spend extra money of vehicles.  Many times they won't service or repair issues that should be done before a customer walks in the door.  They also buy vehicles that may have a few blemishes, smell like smoke or are missing lots of popular options. Those vehicles are cheaper to buy and would show up as Deals compared to another vehicle that was in above average condition, serviced/repaired with no issues and ready for a new buyer. Dealers are reluctant to spend money to make the vehicle nice because all of those things raise the price and they might lose their Deal listing.  Unfortunately the only way to know if you are getting a deal or not takes lots of research and legwork.  You will have to see and drive many of the same types of vehicle.  You will have to note condition, history report, options and many other factors that go into the real price Value.
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