Kirkland Nissan

Hey Redmond! Is An Automatic Better Than a Stick?
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(Posted on Aug 27, 2018 at 05:20AM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

My boyfriend and I are having an argument that you can settle. Believe it or not, I drive an automatic Nissan Murano and he owns a manual. He says my car has no advantage. Can you prove him wrong?

-Cynthia

Dear Cynthia,

While I do love the old fashioned way, there is nothing to worry about. Your transmission has more benefits, in my personal opinion.

First, resale value. When getting ready to move on to a new vehicle, experts agree that your car will sell a lot faster than a stick. The reason is simple: anyone is able drive it. The same canâ€™t be said for your boyfriendâ€™s ride.

Second, this kind of clutch simply makes everything easier. Thank your lucky stars for it when the automobile is stuck in traffic or creeping up hills. The constant pedal pushing is enough to make a personâ€™s left foot drop off!

Third, fuel economy. It used to be that a manual had the upper hand here. But, modern cars with things like variable gears are now just as good on MPGs as anything else.

Hope this settles the debate! Let me know if there are more questions I can answer.

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Car Maintenance Questions

Do Drivers in Fife Need Winter Weather Tires?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 19, 2018 at 08:12PM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

I like to plan ahead and get ready for bad weather before it happens. Iâ€™m debating buying a set of winter tires for my Nissan Armada, but Iâ€™m wondering whether or not they actually do anything useful?

-Glenn

Hi Glenn,

Great to hear from you. Itâ€™s always reassuring to know people are thinking about worst case scenarios out there. But if you really plan to stay safe once the weather gets colder you might want to consider a specialized set of wheels.

To be clear: These are not the same as snow treads, which have been studded to specifically handle the most difficult and slick conditions. Winter tires, on the other hand, are geared more toward everyday driving during the frigid time of year. They have been built to battle the extreme drops in temperature with ease.

Thatâ€™s because experts say they retain their suppleness and grip when the thermometer gets low. Its rubber is specially formulated to avoid drastic changes in shape and form during brutal cold. A traditional warm-weather set will shrink a little throughout these frosty months, thereby losing effectiveness on the highway.

Safe driving this year. Let me know if this answers your question.

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Car Maintenance Questions

Bellevue, Are Your Following The Correct Service Schedule?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 19, 2018 at 08:04PM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

I just bought a used Nissan Maxima and I plan on caring for this baby for life. Iâ€™m wondering what takes priority for service: the dealerâ€™s schedule, the car companyâ€™s recommended maintenance, or the instrument panel?

-Andy

Hi Andy,

Congratulations! You have stumbled onto one of the oldest questions known to man. But donâ€™t worry, we know the answer. Thatâ€™s because there are only a few simple things to keep in mind.

First of all: always follow your warning gauges. If it lights up by saying something is wrong, get it looked at. A carâ€™s various sensors are in touch with the current operation of the engine and other components. In addition, they are often programmed to alert owners upon a manufacturerâ€™s recommendations, too.

However, it is valuable to compare and contrast the Nissan repair plans with the sellerâ€™s. Often the two overlap. But sometimes not. We recommend taking the dealerâ€™s advice very seriously, especially on pre-owned vehicles. The mechanics are trained to see what strains it has been through, and they are geniuses at predicting future needs. Nobody can play fortune teller as well as the people who inspected your automobile before purchase.

Hope that clarifies this understandably confusing issue. Let me know if you have more questions.

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Car Maintenance Questions

Seattle, Do Your MPGs Dip During Winter?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 19, 2018 at 07:55PM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

I have been a Nissan driver my entire life, and I currently love my Nissan Rogue. However, I keep noticing its fuel mileage takes a dip in the winter. Should I be fixing something?

-Rhonda

Hi Rhonda,

As if cold, grueling weather wasnâ€™t tough enough, right? We have good and bad news about this discovery. The upside is that you are not crazy! No matter the car, it is likely to experience a 20-25% drop in efficiency during frigid temperatures.

There are several factors that lead to this. Mainly, gas mileage is calculated in a laboratory under ideal driving conditions. While weather testing is standard for a lot of components, MPGs simply isnâ€™t one of them. So, when we put added stress on the motor, like a heater and defroster, thatâ€™s the reason you are seeing these numbers.

Now for the not-so-great news: there is not much that can counteract it. Just know that itâ€™s perfectly natural and nothing to be alarmed about. The best solution we can offer is to keep watching the meteorologistâ€™s report in hopes of sunny days ahead!

Let me know if I can tell you more regarding this complex topic.Â

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Car Maintenance Questions

Tacoma, Do You Pay Enough Attention To Your Timing Belts?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 19, 2018 at 07:46PM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

My mechanic recommends changing the timing belt for my 2017 Nissan Sentra. But it has been running fine. This isnâ€™t really a big deal, is it?

-Austin

Hi Austin,

It is great news that your car is working properly right now. But ignoring this matter could lead to all sorts of awful problems. Experts agree this uncelebrated component is actually the lifeblood of the entire vehicle. Just like the name implies, it ensures each engine valve opens and closes at the precise moment they should. This allows for the appropriate intake and exhaust strokes within the cylinder. That means if the timing belt is even the slightest bit off, it could be total chaos under the hood.

If someone is suggesting replacing it, weâ€™d take that advice seriously. If the belt goes south, you will be left with abundantly expensive motor repairs. Trust us, this will save a lot of money and heartbreak by getting the everything properly cared for.

Ask the person who fixes the car to show you how it all works. Itâ€™s pretty fascinating!

Good luck and safe driving. Let me know if you have any other questions.

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Car Maintenance Questions

Is a Synthetic Oil Blend Right for Kirkland's Roads?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 19, 2018 at 07:35PM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

I am nearing a milestone with my new Nissan Pathfinder. Itâ€™s time for its first oil change, and Iâ€™m curious about whether it is safe to switch to a synthetic blend. Also, is it a big deal to use a different grade?

-Kate

Hi Kate,

Awwww. Just like babyâ€™s first steps, people never forget such a magical moment! Only kidding (I hope). But this is an important time for the vehicle and its owner. You clearly already know how important regular upkeep can be, which is great. Itâ€™s perfectly okay to switch from traditional oil to something a little more high-tech. With a new engine like yours, there shouldnâ€™t be a problem. The only situation when drivers may want to consult their mechanic is for older cars that have been using regular 10W-40 for a while. Since this is not the case here, everything should be fine.

Now, as for the blends, we advise owners to avoid getting too creative. A manufacturerâ€™s recommendations for lubrication is very scientific and specifically geared for each model. Donâ€™t stray far from what they say to pour into the motor.

Hope that helps you with this exciting time in your ownership voyage.Â

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Car Financing Questions

Hey Kirkland! Do You Know The Difference Between Loan Interests for a Pre-Owned Nissan Leaf?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 13, 2018 at 05:26AM by Patrick Wensink)

Hey Patrick,

I have my eye on a pre-owned Nissan Leaf, and Iâ€™m trying to decide how to finance it. What is the difference between pre-computed versus simple interest loans?

-Ariel

Hi Ariel,

Thatâ€™s an awesome choice for a car. I can see why you are so eager to get rolling (pun intended!). These two types sound confusing but are actually perfect for customizing schedules depending on whether or not you aim to pay it off early.

A pre-computed loan means that each deposit made for the life of the note is calculated out exactly. So, if you have a five-year plan it will always be that amount every month. However, this type of borrowing is not ideal if the aim is to pay off the car in less time, because you will not save on interest.

If you are aiming to fluctuate regular deposits and maybe complete the note early, a simple loan is the way to go. This method of lending re-calculates the interest based on the outstanding debt on a daily basis. It will save money if you are able to contribute extra each month.

Hopefully, you know which is right. Let me know if you have more questions.Â

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Car Financing Questions

Do You Have The Right Loan for a 2018 Nissan Maxima?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington

(Posted on Aug 13, 2018 at 04:55AM by Patrick Wensink)

Hello Patrick,

Iâ€™m all set to buy a new Nissan Maxima, but financing is making my head spin. Can you explain the difference between secured and unsecured auto loans?

-Scott

Hi Scott,

Thanks for reaching out for such an important decision. I have good news for you: the difference is pretty basic. It essentially boils down to what happens if you fail to pay.

First, letâ€™s discuss a secured loan. What this means is that the lender needs collateral in order to fund the purchase. Usually, there is a lien put on the vehicle being purchased, but sometimes another car or a house can be used instead. Regardless, the borrower will get that item repossessed if they cannot adhere to the schedule.

An unsecured one, on the other hand, does not require any assets be put up against the value of the money lent. If payments are not made, legal action is the only way for the lender to recoup their loss. This type tends to have a higher cost and interest rate, due to the added risk on the bankâ€™s side.

As long as the bills get paid on time, it comes down to what is the best fit.

Let me know if there are any more problems I can research for you!

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Car Maintenance Questions

Can I Easily Change the Wipers in My Nissan Frontier?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington.

(Posted on Aug 13, 2018 at 04:15AM by Patrick Wensink)

Dear Patrick,

I love my mechanic, but he charges an arm and a leg to replace my windshield wipers. I am a single mom on a budget, and this seems like a way I can save money. Is it hard to change the blades on my Nissan Frontier without help?

-Anna

Hi Anna,

Good thinking! Buying and replacing them yourself is a great way to shave off added cost to a tune-up bill. Thereâ€™s also more positive news: this process couldnâ€™t be simpler!

First, ease the arm backward so it sticks out from the windshield at roughly a 90-degree angle.

Next, rotate the wiper so that it is parallel with the glass, essentially forming a T.

On the backside of the mechanism, you will discover a release tab. Unsnap it (itâ€™s a very simple metal hinge) to loosen the blade.

Pull it downward, and it should easily come free.

Finally, just repeat the steps in reverse to install the new blade and lock it into place. Be sure to test out the wipers when you are done by spraying fluid and running it a few times to make sure everything is secure.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions.

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Car Insurance Questions

Seattle: How Important Is It to Insure Your New Nissan SUV?
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most common nissan car maintenance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car insurance questions tacoma washington most common nissan car truck questions tacoma washington most common nissan automotive questions answers tacoma washington most common used nissan auto questions tacoma washington.

(Posted on Aug 10, 2018 at 05:25PM by Patrick Wensink)

Hey Patrick,

I just got a sweet 2018 Nissan Murano, but I feel like auto insurance is a waste of money. Whatâ€™s the worst thing that could happen if I am not covered?

Sincerely,
Jay

Hi Jay,

Thanks for reaching out! I hate to be a scold, but people really should invest in a policy. Itâ€™ll pay off in the long run, trust me.

First, itâ€™s the law in America that all drivers be covered. There are endless options, and there is sure to be an agency that fits your budget and needs.

Still not convinced? If you get in an accident without it in Michigan, for example, the penalty could be up to a year in jail. In Delaware the fine for this infraction can be as high as $2,000. Many states will add points to a license, suspend driving privileges, or even impound a car. Thatâ€™s not getting into the all the out-of-pocket headaches if you get sued by another vehicle owner.

Clearly, itâ€™s in everyoneâ€™s best interest to always keep a valid form of insurance. It isnâ€™t worth the risk.

Hope this inspires you to seek coverage. Let me know if there are any other questions.

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21st Century Car Buying! Free Service Loaners For Life!

Hey Redmond! Is An Automatic Better Than a Stick?

Do Drivers in Fife Need Winter Weather Tires?

Bellevue, Are Your Following The Correct Service Schedule?

Seattle, Do Your MPGs Dip During Winter?

Tacoma, Do You Pay Enough Attention To Your Timing Belts?

Is a Synthetic Oil Blend Right for Kirkland's Roads?

Hey Kirkland! Do You Know The Difference Between Loan Interests for a Pre-Owned Nissan Leaf?

Do You Have The Right Loan for a 2018 Nissan Maxima?

Can I Easily Change the Wipers in My Nissan Frontier?

Seattle: How Important Is It to Insure Your New Nissan SUV?

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