Parking assistance features have become more common in recent years. These systems aid drivers as they pull into spaces, but the kind of support they offer varies.Â
All these tools use sensors mounted on the rear of the vehicle to locate obstructions. In some cases, the car provides a visual alert by lighting up an icon in the rearview mirrors. In other instances, there is an audio warning - usually a beep over the speakers.Â
Tech-savvy systems, such as Chrysler's ParkSense, can take over the steering and move the vehicle into the space without input from the driver. However, you can override the process by touching the wheel or brakes.Â
Finally, the most common parking tool is a rearview camera. It provides a live feed from behind the car. The image often has dynamic gridlines, which show where the vehicle will go if it remains on its current steering trajectory.Â
To see what parking assist features are available near you, contact our Saint Paul, AB dealership today.Â
Many AWD vehicles have a shiftable 4x4 system. Jeep Cherokees, for example, come with Active Drive I, which engages both axles on slippery roads.Â
AWD cars and trucks use a transfer case to send torque to all tires. However, when this drive style is not needed, shiftable powertrains can disengage one of the axles to convert to FWD or RWD. Doing so can increase fuel efficiency.Â
Off-road models, such as the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, provide more than one 4x4 mode. These vehicles have an additional low gear that offers extra muscle for exceptionally steep or slippery terrain.Â
Some cars use a manual shifter to make the drivetrain change. Others offer electronic controls where you connect and disconnect the axle by pushing a button. Finally, there are SUVs and trucks that automatically react based on readings from the wheels and steering. Â
To see which shiftable 4x4 vehicles are available near you, contact Saint Paul Dodge today.Â
Most vehicles come with a full range of standard safety features. If you are transporting young passengers, what particular components should you look for before making an auto purchase?Â
One common protection feature is the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children). It provides reinforced fasteners that make it easy to install car seats in the rear rows without using the existing belts. This design ensures a more secure fit.Â
Childproof and speed-sensitive locks have also become standard in many autos. They either deploy when the car accelerates or prevent anyone in the interior from opening the rear doors.
The best way to protect children is to avoid incidents in the first place. Active safety systems, including blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision warning with automatic braking, can help you evade the most common accident scenarios. Such components are available on vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.Â
To learn which autos have the best safety features for families, contact our Saint Paul, AB dealership today.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles, such as the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, can provide excellent fuel efficiency. If fully replenished, the battery can handle shorter commutes and trips without involving the gas engine. It is essential, therefore, to understand the charging systems.Â
Level 1 chargers are the simplest option. With these systems, you connect your vehicle to a standard 120-volt outlet. The advantage is that you do not need any specialised equipment or outlets. Instead, you can use a regular household plug. The disadvantage is that the process is slow.Â
If you can charge overnight, this option will be sufficient. However, a Level 2 unit can give you a full battery in two hours. The drawback is that it requires a 240-volt current. Some vehicles, such as the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, have these special outlets available for owners.
If you are interested in a plug-in gas-electric car, truck, or van, you can contact our Saint Paul dealership to discuss options for models and charging systems. Â