You are viewing all posts for categories: maintenance & service

What Should You Look for When Buying a Family SUV?

A family of four packing luggage into the back of a silver SUV in a suburban driveway during autumn. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

When buying a family SUV, prioritize standard active safety systems like automatic emergency braking, accessible LATCH anchors, flexible cargo capacity that accommodates strollers and luggage, and intuitive rear-seat connectivity. Evaluating seating configurations, long-term maintenance needs, and passenger accessibility ensures the vehicle meets daily routine demands. Balancing seating capacity against usable cargo volume helps narrow down whether a two-row or three-row layout best fits your household.

Read More

Why Does an Engine Crank But Fail to Start?

Gloved hands holding an OBD2 diagnostic code reader over an open car engine bay during vehicle maintenance. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

A crank no-start condition occurs when the starter motor successfully spins the engine crankshaft, but the engine fails to ignite and run independently. This usually stems from a breakdown in fuel delivery, missing ignition spark, inaccurate engine-position sensor signals, or security system lockouts rather than a starter or battery failure. Identifying why the starter turns while combustion never catches requires inspecting the fundamental inputs needed for engine operation.

Read More

Unlock Extreme Power and Hauling Freedom with the 2027 Ram 3500 Big Horn

Image

The 2027 Ram 3500 Big Horn is the right truck for buyers who need serious one-ton capability without moving into higher-trim territory. Powered by a 6.4L HEMI V8 producing 410 hp and 429 lb-ft of torque, the Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 Long Wheelbase tows up to 14,110 lbs and carries a 4,520 lb payload. The featured in-stock unit at NewGen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Clinton — a Diamond Black Crystal Pearlcoat Crew Cab with the Cummins High Output diesel and 5th Wheel/Gooseneck Towing Prep Group — is available now at an MSRP of $81,107.

Read More

Does Your RAM Truck or Jeep Actually Require Premium Fuel?

Image

Fuel requirements vary by model and engine. Many Ram trucks and Jeep vehicles with naturally aspirated engines may run on standard 87 octane regular unleaded fuel, while some higher-output or turbocharged engines may recommend premium fuel. Always check the owner's manual and fuel-filler label for the exact requirement for your vehicle.

Read More

Why Does a Steering Wheel Vibrate While Driving?

First-person view of a driver's hands on the steering wheel of a Ram truck navigating a winding rural road in fall. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

A steering wheel vibrates while driving primarily due to unbalanced tires, uneven tire wear, warped brake rotors, or worn front suspension and steering components like tie rods and ball joints. When tire weight distribution is uneven or mechanical components lose tight tolerances, rotational forces transmit directly up through the steering column into the steering wheel.

Read More

What Should You Do When Your Car Temperature Light Turns On?

A mechanic wearing safety glasses inspects a car engine bay using a diagnostic probe in a bright garage. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

Pull over safely, turn off the engine immediately, and let the cooling system settle down before taking any further action. Continuing to drive while the red dashboard temperature symbol is lit risks severe internal damage, such as warped cylinder heads or a blown head gasket. Safely coasting to the shoulder, shutting down the ignition, and opening the hood to let heat escape prevents localized thermal hot spots from destroying critical engine components.

Read More

What Should You Do Immediately When the Oil Pressure Light Comes On?

Jeep digital dashboard displaying a red oil icon and a Low Oil Pressure - Shut Off Engine warning message. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

When an oil pressure warning light turns on while driving, safely pull off the road immediately and shut off the engine. Continuing to operate a vehicle with low oil pressure deprives vital internal components of hydraulic lubrication, which can cause catastrophic mechanical engine damage within minutes. Once stopped safely on level ground, wait several minutes for oil to settle back into the oil pan, then check the dipstick level and look beneath the engine bay for visible fluid leaks before attempting any further vehicle operation.

Read More

Can Chrysler and Jeep ParkSense Active Park Assist Park Completely By Itself?

A man holding the steering wheel of a car while using the center dashboard backup camera display on a suburban street. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

Chrysler and Jeep ParkSense Active Park Assist does not operate as a completely autonomous parking system. While the technology automatically manages steering during parallel and perpendicular maneuvers, the driver must maintain complete control over the accelerator, gear selector, and brake pedal. Visual and audible prompts guide the driver through each step of the maneuver to maintain full control and safety.

Read More

Jump Starting 101: How Long Should You Drive to Recharge Your Battery?

Technician using a battery tester with red and black clamps connected to a car battery under an open hood in a garage. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)

Jump Starting 101: How Long Should You Drive to Recharge Your Battery?

After a successful jump start, driving continuously for at least 30 minutes at steady road speeds restores enough electrical charge to allow your vehicle to restart on its own. Today, we are interviewing Josh Lewis, Service Advisor at NewGen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Clinton. With 6 years of automotive service experience, Josh provides practical guidance on vehicle electrical systems, battery care, and roadside safety for local drivers.

Read More

Should You Buy the 2027 RAM 1500 or RAM 2500?

A side-by-side outdoor photograph of a 2027 RAM 1500 pickup truck and a 2027 RAM 2500 heavy-duty pickup truck, parked along a wide gravel driveway beside a rural Michigan farm field in autumn, warm golden hour sunlight casting soft light across the landscape, the dark granite metallic RAM 1500 carry

Choosing between the 2027 Ram 1500 and the 2027 Ram 2500 comes down to your primary towing and payload demands versus daily driving comfort. Drivers needing a comfortable daily commuter with up to 11,530 pounds of towing capacity should choose the light-duty Ram 1500. Buyers hauling heavy commercial loads, large fifth-wheel campers, or work trailers exceeding 11,500 pounds require the heavy-duty strength, 20,000-pound maximum tow rating, and high-strength frame of the Ram 2500.

Read More

Subscribe to Our Blog