The purchase of a vehicle has less to do with obtaining consumer goods and more to do with making an investment in your and your family’s quality of life. As such, ensuring that you recoup a sizable return on your investment means prolonging the life of your vehicle for as long as possible. Today, we’ll be going over some basic preventative measures to do this.

Defensive and Gentle Driving

Just because you enjoy those Fast and the Furious movies doesn’t mean you have to take driving tips from them. Being a responsible driver is the first step in ensuring your vehicle goes the extra mile. Always adhere to traffic laws and avoid sudden starts and stops whenever possible.

Routine Maintenence

The biggest way in which you can keep your car in pristine shape is by getting routine maintenance at regular intervals. Making sure the oil gets changed, brakes are serviced, and belts and hoses are properly looked over will be decisive in keeping your car on the road.

Keep Your Tires Inflated

It might surprise you that almost 36% of vehicles on the road drive around with not nearly enough air in the tires. Many of today’s vehicles come with tire pressure monitoring systems. Keeping your tires inflated to the appropriate level will prevent them from blowing out. It’s also advisable to get them periodically rotated to ensure that the tread wears evenly.

Limit Use of Your Air-Conditioner

While the AC is a necessity when traveling on warmer-than-average days, it’s recommended that you try to limit its use to these particular situations. The AC utilizes power generated from the engine and can put additional strain on it if it’s run for considerable amounts of time. The strain on the engine means more wear and tear and more fuel needed to propel your vehicle forward.

Don’t Leave Too Much Junk in the Trunk

Just like your AC, too much weight in your vehicle causes more strain on the engine. You can alleviate this problem by periodically cleaning out your vehicle to limit the amount of weight you carry around during your commutes and adventures.

The Truck Junction in Sarasota

Having a vehicle that goes the extra mile for you makes all the difference in the world. At The Truck Junction in Sarasota, we offer an inventory full of vehicles that are held to the highest standards of quality. We welcome you to visit us today at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota.

Shopping for a vehicle that’s efficient and affordable is the struggle many consumers face. Now more than ever, purchasing a used truck can provide some distinct advantages, some of which we’ll be exploring here today.

More for Your Money

We’re currently experiencing the fallout from a worldwide microchip shortage. This means that many manufacturers are limiting their yearly production quotas. This also means that certain features on the upper trim levels of some vehicles won’t be available. Buying a used truck that was manufactured before the 2020 model year will most likely have more features than a new truck.

Appreciating Depreciation

All vehicles, regardless of their make and model, go through a process called depreciation. This begins the moment they’re driven off the lot and continues each year. Some trucks, such as the Nissan Frontier, depreciate at a faster rate than other vehicles. This means you can take advantage of a diminished resale value.

Cheaper Premiums

One of the mandatory costs that come with any vehicle purchase is your monthly insurance premiums. Typically, if you purchase a brand-new vehicle and make a monthly payment, insurance companies require that you take out a full coverage policy. Used vehicles are cheaper to insure, and you’ll be paying less for insurance. There are other factors, such as your driving record and how often you drive, that will affect this, so talk with your provider.

Better Quality Than Ever Before

Because of the microchip shortage and its effects on production quotas, many dealerships are buying up used vehicles that are of the highest quality. If you’re someone who enjoys the benefits that new vehicles offer but are on a budget, taking advantage of a CPO (certified pre-owned) vehicle is one of the best options for you. While these vehicles are theoretically used, they were recently manufactured and have limited mileage. They also undergo a thorough inspection before going on the market and are backed by manufacturer warranties for more peace of mind than ever before. Buying used has never been more advantageous as it is right now.

The Truck Junction

When drivers in Sarasota need a truck of the highest quality, they trust . Whether it’s buying, selling, or even seeking out financing for a new method of transportation, we’re the dealership that more people have come to rely upon. Open six days a week and happy to serve the people who inhabit the community we call home; we’re here to go the extra mile for you. Visit us today at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota.

The diesel engine has seen a notable renaissance in the truck world in the past few years. Thanks to manufacturers such as Duramax and Cummins, today’s diesel-powered engines have equipped many trucks with the ability to produce higher amounts of torque, tow larger quantities, and even offer a more conservative fuel consumption compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. They accomplish all this while operating at lower RPMs and possessing a life expectancy far exceeding the industry norm of 100,000 miles.

Are Diesel Trucks More Expensive to Insure?

When it comes to the cost of insurance premiums, there are a number of determining factors. The most significant of these generally have to do with your provider. If you buy a brand-new diesel-powered truck and are making payments to a financial institution, your premium will likely be higher, as many require the customer to take out a full coverage policy. That said, diesel engines are more expensive to produce, so insurance premiums tend to be higher than gasoline-powered vehicles.

Are Diesel Trucks More Expensive to Maintain?

Any engine that operates on diesel fuel requires more routine maintenance than gasoline-powered. A diesel engine is very much an investment. While you’ll certainly have to put a decent amount of work into it, the rewards you’ll reap are many. As we previously mentioned, when properly maintained, diesel engines can last for lengthy distances. For example, many drivers who rely on GM’s Duramax engine have reported getting well beyond 220,000 miles before any large repairs, such as rebuilding, are done. There are other factors to this, such as how hard you drive and how often you utilize the engine. Maintenance will be fewer and farther between if you’re using it as a work vehicle. If you’re using a diesel truck as your everyday driver or tow a great deal, expect to have a lot more upkeep done.

Will I Save Money on Fuel?

Diesel engines burn fuel much slower than gasoline. You can get a much farther MPG on diesel than with gasoline. For example, some diesel-powered V6s get upwards of over 30MPH while driving on the highway. If you’re looking to get the most mileage out of a fill-up, then diesel is the way to go.

The Truck Junction

Whether you’re in the diesel or gasoline-powered truck market, trust The Truck Junction’s experts to help you choose the ideal make and model for you. For our inventory and other services we offer, visit our website or stop by our Sarasota dealership located at 4791 Clark Road!

Are you in the market for a pickup truck? These vehicles are powerful, convenient, and fun to drive. Here are three tips for choosing a pickup truck.

The first thing you want to think about before shopping for a pickup truck is whether you want to shop for new or used. New pickup trucks will feature the latest technology, a manufacturer’s warranty, and little to no mileage. However, new pickup trucks are notably more expensive and lose their value quickly. On the other hand, pre-owned pickup trucks hold their value for years. They are also more affordable. With that being said, used pickup trucks also have higher mileage and have been through more wear and tear.

Once you’ve decided between new or used, you want to think about how you intend to use your pickup truck. Trucks are incredibly versatile. They can be used as a work vehicle, a towing vehicle, a daily commuter vehicle, a family vehicle, a recreational vehicle, and so much more. If you need to use your pickup truck for towing heavy loads or transporting large cargo, you want to pick a pickup truck that has a payload and towing capacity that meets your needs. On the other hand, if you plan on using your pickup truck for weekend adventures or off-roading, you want to select a truck that is designed to tackle various terrain with ease. If you want to use your pickup truck as a family vehicle, cabin size is key.

The third tip for buying a pickup truck is deciding on cab size. If you want to use your pickup truck for transporting your loved ones, you need enough space to meet their needs. Some pickup trucks only come with a front-row bench seat. If you need more seating, look for pickup trucks with two rows of seats. You may even want to find a pickup truck with four doors and side steps to make sure your passengers are accommodated as possible. On the other hand, if you’re using your pickup truck for transporting cargo, you may favor a large bed over a big cabin.

Consider these tips when you’re shopping at The Truck Junction. We carry a wide variety of pre-owned pickup trucks that are sure to work for your lifestyle and your budget. To learn more about the vehicles we have on our lot, visit our website or give us a call at 941-927-8785. The Truck Junction is located at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota, and we look forward to seeing you here soon.

Two of the top top pickup trucks on the market today are the Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150. If you are seeking a capable, powerful, and bold pickup truck, both of these vehicles deliver. However, one may be more suitable for you than the other depending on your lifestyle. Keep reading for a comparison between the Toyota Tundra and the Ford F-150.

The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck with two rows of seating for up to five. The vehicle has incredible durability and reliability, making it a top pick for drivers seeking something heavy-duty. A V-8 engine comes standard with the Tundra, which allows the truck to tow up to 10,000 pounds. Maximum payload for this vehicle is 1,600 pounds. Additionally, this Toyota pickup truck has a 8.1-foot bed. While ride quality is generally comfortable, the Tundra isn’t best suited for the off-road.

The Ford F-150 is available in several different configurations. You can pick a single-row, two-door model, or you can opt for a four-door, five-seater model. You can also choose from a handful of bed sizes when picking out your F-150. These bed sizes include a 5-foot option and an 8-foot option. Towing capacity for the F-150 is 13,000 pounds and maximum payload is 3,270 pounds. The F-150 also offers a generally comfortable ride if you’re driving on a dirt path or construction site.

If you’re looking for a strong pickup truck for making your daily commute, the Toyota Tundra may be best suited for you. The vehicle rides smoothly on paved roads and has plenty of interior space for friends or family.

On the other hand, the Ford F-150 offers a wide range of options. If you need a work vehicle, the F-150 comes with features like loading ramps and moveable tie-downs that can make getting the job done easier.

Depending on your lifestyle, the Toyota Tundra or the Ford F-150 may be the better pickup truck for you. To test drive these outstanding pickup trucks, visit The Truck Junction. You can reach us by phone at 941-927-8785 to learn more about our inventory or you can stop by our dealership at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota, Florida.

Nobody wants to experience a tire blowout. However, tire blowouts are actually one of the most common reasons for a vehicle to break down. In order to avoid tire blowouts during your commute, follow these four tire maintenance tips:

First, be mindful of your driving. Did you know the faster you drive, the more at-risk your tires are? This is because, when a car moves at high speeds, the tires are more susceptible to blowouts from debris and overheating. Do not speed during your commute to stay safe on the road.

The second tire maintenance tip to avoid blowouts is avoiding overloading. If you do need to load up your vehicle, try to keep your load light. Heavy loads add strain to your tires, making them more likely to experience a blowout.

Third, never over or under-inflate your tires. When dealing with tire pressure, you want to stay as close to the recommended PSI as possible. You can check the inside of your driver’s side door to find this number. The recommended PSI is also in your owner’s manual. If you under-inflate your tires, they are more likely to go flat during your drive. On the other hand, if you over-inflate your tires, they can experience a blowout when exposed to pressure or debris.

The last tip to avoid tire blowouts during your commute is to always monitor your tire pressure. Consider keeping a tire pressure gauge in your glove box or on your keychain. Check your tires periodically throughout the month to be sure the PSI is at an appropriate level. You also want to be sure to check your tire pressure after any major temperature changes, as this can cause your tire pressure to change too.

When you follow these tire maintenance tips, you can avoid blowouts and stay safe on the road. Now that you know how to care for your vehicle’s tires, you’re ready to shop for a new-to-you vehicle. Check out The Truck Junction to find top-quality automobiles. We are located at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota, and we hope to see you here soon!

For the last few months, gas prices have been significantly higher than usual across the nation. Most states have experienced gas prices of between $4 to $5 a gallon, the cost of diesel hitting an all-time high in June 2022.

Since it appears that gas prices are unlikely to fall anytime soon, it’s a good idea to learn a few gas-saving tips that will help you combat high gas prices. Our blog will discuss everything you need to do to save money on gas without you needing to do anything too extreme.

Of course, if you want to really save money, you can choose to buy a new economical truck from The Truck Junction. We have a wide range of available trucks that could be more fuel economical than your current ride.

What Are Five Gas Saving Tips To Help Combat High Gas Prices?

Out of the many gas-saving tips that can help you combat high gas prices, we have managed to find five that we think will be the easiest to follow. Let’s dive into these tips below so you can continue getting the most bang for your buck when you fill up.

Ensure Your Truck Is Using The Right Oil

It might not seem like it, but if you use the wrong oil in your truck or car, you could be spending more than you should. Using the wrong engine oil can significantly affect gas mileage, with some auto experts stating that you could be getting 2 to 3 percent less mileage by using the wrong oil. That’s why it’s crucial to find what oil your vehicle manufacturer recommends and use only that oil.

Don’t Drive Fast

Driving slower is not only good for your safety but also for your pocket. You can majorly improve your gas mileage by slowing down and driving between 5 to 10 miles slower than you usually do. For example, it’s been determined that if a person drives five miles above 50 miles per hour, it costs around 20 cents extra per gallon. What a savings!

Don’t Overload Your Vehicle

Did you know that the more weight you have in your truck or car, the more fuel it will consume? This means that if you reduce how much weight you have in your car, you can save a significant sum of money over the long term.

It’s been determined that drivers who lower their vehicle’s weight by only 100 pounds save around 3 cents per gallon driven, depending on their vehicle’s make, model, and condition. Even though this doesn’t sound like much, it will add up, especially if you’re someone who likes to complete long-distance trips. So take a look in your trunk and see what can stay behind!

Try To Avoid Heavy Traffic

When caught in heavy traffic, constant accelerating and braking can majorly impact how much gas you use. Additionally, constantly idling when sitting in heavy traffic also uses more gas than you would expect. That’s why another of the easiest ways to save gas is to plan your trips and choose fuel-efficient routes that are not prone to heavy traffic.

Check Your Car’s Tire Pressure

Your car’s tire pressure matters for many reasons. You could be wasting money on gas if you have incorrectly inflated tires. According to the respected US Department of Energy, ensuring your tires are correctly inflated could boost your vehicle’s gas mileage by up to 3 percent! This means you could be saving around 15 cents per gallon, depending on fuel prices and your car.

As you can see, these five gas-saving tips are easy to follow and will assuredly help you combat high gas prices. Yet, if you feel it’s time to consider a set of new wheels that is a more gas-economical truck, you can speak with us at The Truck Junction.

Our dealership has a wide array of pre-owned trucks from leading brands on offer in our inventory that you can peruse. You can contact us here to learn more about how we can help match you to the perfect car that suits your wants and needs. Visit us today at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota.

If it’s time to start looking for a new car, budget is one of the factors that could be holding you back. You may have taken off buying a used vehicle from your list because of misconceptions or false information that’s been put out there through word of mouth or the internet. The truth is the negative statements you’ve heard about buying used are most likely just myths. Let’s take a look at 6 common myths about buying a used car and why it’s actually a great option for you.

Used Cars Are Unsafe

Some may think that driving a used car could be dangerous but that’s not the case. There are plenty of ways to make sure the car you’re interested in is safe including researching recalls, obtaining a history report, or asking a mechanic for advice before making a purchase. Many companies also offer annual safety tests as well as verified customer reviews.

Used Cars Are Junk

One of the most common myths is buying a used car means you’re purchasing a piece of junk. There are many reasons why someone would choose to trade in their vehicle. It could’ve belonged to an elderly couple that no longer drives, or a couple that needs more space for their growing family. Not all cars traded in are worthless, they could be a hidden treasure for you!

There are Only Good Deals Online

Online shopping has become super convenient but it’s not the only way to find a great deal on a used vehicle. Seeing the vehicle in person and taking it for a test drive first is always your best bet. Meeting a dealer you’re comfortable with in-person can help you find a great deal and give you the best shopping experience possible.

Used Cars Have No Resale Value

As stated before there’s a multitude of reasons why someone would trade in their vehicle. Selling a used car can be just as valuable if you find the right buyer. Supply and demand as well as trends are all factors in determining value. In modern times electric and hybrid cars are growing in popularity making their value rise. Just because a car is used doesn’t affect its resale value negatively.

You Must Pay Cash

This is false information when it comes to buying a used car. Financing a used vehicle is the same as financing a new one. Making a significant down payment will help you save money on monthly payments and interests, but this doesn’t mean it’s your only option. A trustworthy dealership will offer a variety of ways for you to finance your vehicle.

You’ll End Up Overpaying

Another common misconception about buying used is that you’ll end up paying more than what the car is worth. There are plenty of ways to make sure you know the true value of the car you’re interested in. Research is always more important. Besides looking into recalls and the vehicle history report you can also get a pre-purchase inspection done by an expert.

Now that you know the facts, buying a used car can be extremely beneficial. If you’re ready to put these myths in the past, The Truck Junction is the perfect place to get started. Visit us at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota, or call our team of experts today at (941) 927-8785 to begin your shopping experience!

Pickup trucks are strong, powerful, and fun to drive. They’re also versatile. You can use a pickup truck as a work vehicle if you need something that can haul heavy loads. You can also use your pickup truck for camping trips if you need to haul an RV or trailer. Pickup trucks are even excellent for weekends of off-roading. If you’re in the market for a pickup truck, consider shopping pre-owned. These are five reasons to buy a used truck.

First, it’s no secret that buying a pre-owned pickup truck is more affordable than buying a brand new truck. If you’re on a budget, a brand new truck may not even be within your means. However, just because a truck isn’t brand new doesn’t mean it isn’t packed with appealing features. In fact, you can sometimes get more for your money when buying used. Some pre-owned trucks have luxury enhancements, modern technology, and performance packages.Next, a used pickup truck can be a better value. When you buy a brand new vehicle, the value of that vehicle depreciates significantly as soon as you drive it off the lot. However, when you shop pre-owned, the value of the vehicle doesn’t depreciate nearly as much. This means you can get closer to what you paid for your pickup truck if you decide to sell it one day.Third, today’s vehicles are more durable, strong, and reliable than ever before. Even if you’re buying a vehicle that is a couple of years old, you can still trust that the pickup truck is going to last for years to come. The average age of vehicles on the road is 10 years, and this number is only increasing.

Fourth, pre-owned pickup trucks are priced competitively. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect vehicle, you can find an option that is within your budget with ease.Lastly, the pre-owned pickup truck market is filled with a diverse selection of vehicles. Whether you’re seeking something for hauling heavy cargo, towing heavy loads, or off-roading, there is a pre-owned pickup truck out there with your name on it.Find the best pickup truck for you by shopping with The Truck Junction. You can discover our new and pre-owned truck dealership at 4791 Clark Road in Saraosta. We look forward to seeing you here!

We may not think about it every time we get behind the wheel, but driving can be a dangerous activity. Whether you’ve been driving for decades or just got your license, it never hurts to learn new tips and tricks to stay safe behind the wheel. Here are driving tips to keep you safe:

First and foremost, you never want to drive under the influence of alcohol. Doing so severely impairs your ability to operate a vehicle, which can lead to dangerous, and even fatal, situations. In addition to alcohol, pay attention to the labels on your medications. Some prescriptions recommend you do not drive when taking them because they may cause side effects that make it difficult to operate a motor vehicle safely. If you experience blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, or an inability to focus due to medication, don’t get behind the wheel.

Another way to stay safe when you’re behind the wheel is by putting your phone away. Even if you’re just glancing at your phone, your attention is diverted for several seconds, which is all it takes to get into an accident. Many phones today have driving modes that reduce the risk of distracted driving. In addition to staying off your phone, you also want to avoid eating, drinking, playing with the radio, and talking to passengers as you drive, as all of these actions are distracting.

Even if you’re running late, you should never speed. Driving too quickly puts yourself, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk. When operating your vehicle at fast speeds, it takes longer to slow or stop the vehicle. If you cannot react to changes in traffic quickly, you’re putting yourself and others in serious danger. Always follow the speed limit and drive slower in poor road conditions.

If you’re not already buckling up every time you get behind the wheel, you need to start. Wearing a seatbelt can save your life in the event of a crash by 45% and reduce the risk of injury by 50%. In some cities, you can even be fined with a ticket if you’re not wearing your seatbelt.

Safety is key, no matter how long you’ve been driving. Keep these safety tips in mind when shopping for a vehicle at The Truck Junction. Check out our safe, top-quality pre-owned vehicles at 4791 Clark Road in Sarasota.