Maintaining Your Vehicle's MPG

With gas prices on the rise and local restrictions starting to loosen, the travel itch that you’ve been fighting for a year may not be too far from your future! Melloy Dodge offers a range of vehicles, each has its own city and highway miles per gallon (MPG) that each is designed to reach.* Occasionally, you may notice that you are filling up sooner than you typically do, so our Express Lane Technicians have some suggestions for you:. 

Extra Weight: have you recently cleaned out and organized rooms in your house and taken several bags to your trunk? Maybe it’s the kid's backpacks, sporting equipment, new weights for your home gym, a bike rack that isn't being used, or even a cargo box on top. This extra weight will affect how efficient your vehicle is. Be sure to clear out any extra and unnecessary weight from your vehicle. 

Idling: Do trips in your vehicle, local or long distance, include times or waiting long periods in your car and you leave it idling? Unless you have a newer model vehicle that has the start-stop function it’ll save you money by just switching the vehicle off. 

Maintain Your Speed: Getting up to speed is fine, but continuously switching between higher and lower speed limits will burn a lot more fuel than you may think. Use cruise control when possible and remember that manufacturers typically recommend that you don’t use it below 25 mph so that your vehicle doesn't change unnecessarily between gears.

Tire Pressure: Our previous blog from our own Melloy Dodge technicians has covered the importance of maintaining and checking your tire pressure. Tire pressure that is routinely set to the tire and manufacturers recommend PSI can increase your fuel economy upwards of 3%!

Now that our informative express lane technicians have provided you with tips on increasing your mpg, our sales associates in the showroom can show you into your new vehicle! We are New Mexico’s #1 Dodge and RAM dealership, and we always say DEAL! You can also shop online and we can deliver your new Dodge or RAM right to your front door.

*EPA estimates only. Mileage will vary depending upon driving conditions and your personal driving habits.

Custom Lifted Trucks

Did you know that Melloy Dodge sells RAM custom lifted trucks? You read that right! When you come in to purchase your new RAM 1500, 2500, or 3500, you can customize it to include 35” tires, side steps, and more. Another great part of lifting your new RAM is that your upgrade can be included in your financing if you choose. But, remember, all financing is on approved credit. 

Wanting to go the extra step? We offer customization through SCA Performance. Some upgrades include Black Window Wheels, running boards, leather interior, and custom paint. When we say “customized” we mean it! Another awesome benefit to customizing your lifted truck is that we'll get your truck bed liner sprayed on before you pick up your new lifted RAM at Melloy Dodge-- just give us a day or two to get it done!

Are you ready to be lifted? Our experienced and knowledgeable sales associates will be able to guide you step by step on your perfect customization and lift experience. Coming to Melloy Dodge in Albuquerque, NM is your one-stop-shop to the perfect, lifted RAM! 

Financing Break Down

Melloy Dodge is committed to properly informing their customers about the cost of a new vehicle’s monthly payment.  And, Melloy Dodge will work within your budget so you can focus on the more important things in life, like family, friends, and getting safely and reliably to and from your job. 

Let’s break it down: 

Example: 2021 Dodge Charger SXT (Not Financed through Chrysler Capital)

Price: as low as $25,994 

2.99% for 72 Months - $394/Month

4.99% for 72 Months - $417/Month

Example: 2021 Dodge Charger SXT (Through Chrysler Capital)

Price: as low as $25,994

0% for 72 Months - $361/Month

When you finance through Chrysler Capital you know you are getting a great deal. By financing through Chrysler Capital, you can save over $30 a month if your credit score is in good shape! Be sure to stop in and test drive any vehicle on our lot. Hurry in. The 0% Financing for 72 Months is an offer you shouldn’t pass up! You can even shop online and we will deliver to you. 

*As of 2/9/2021. Pricing includes all incentives and rebates applied. Other conditions may apply. For well-qualified customers on approved credit. Plus TT&L and dealer transfer fee. All pricing and financing terms are subject to change without notice. See dealer for complete information and financing details.

Truck Of The Year!

For three consecutive years, RAM Truck Brand has won Motor Trend’s “Truck Of The Year!” This year, the RAM 1500 TRX is their truck of choice. In Motor Trend’s 71 years running in publication, there has never been a truck with a three consecutive year win. 

Additionally, RAM has won this award now six times: 2010, 2013, 2014, 2019, 2020, 2121. Motor Trend’s “of the year” award, which puts vehicle candidates through a gregarious process, represents superior quality, exceptional value, and their impact on the automotive scene. RAM is one of the best lightweight and heavy-duty trucks on the road today. 

This award is given after Motor Trend has put each contender through their own battery of inspection, utilization, and pushing the power of the vehicle. RAM isn’t only the best choice in trucks, this award shows you that you get the most value for your buck. For more information regarding this award and what it means, visit their site to read more about how Motor Trend awarded “Truck of the Year” to RAM! Melloy Dodge is extremely proud to sell RAM. Contact us or stop into our showroom and test-drive these spectacular trucks to see ‘why’ for yourself.

Why Buy The Fiat 500X?

You may have heard that the Fiat Chrysler Automobile Group (FCA) is discontinuing the FIAT 500L and FIAT 124 Spider for the US and Canadian markets. The good news is that FCA will continue with the FIAT 500X. Melloy Dodge will keep plenty in stock or you can order with your specifications!

But, why should you purchase the FIAT 500X?

Nothing is like the Fiat 500X! This vehicle is a compact SUV that offers comfort, fuel economy, and innovative technology that will continue to impress you for years to come. The stylish and comfortable seats come in different fabrics such as cloth, vinyl, and leather, so choosing your preferred comfort makes FIAT a favorite. You can expect to get 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It is perfect for driving around our beautiful state and exploring new scenery. The innovative technology is easy to use and takes your safety into consideration when driving with hands-free calls, voice commands, Sirius XM, 3-D graphics, all on a 7-inch touchscreen display. 

That’s just what you see, wait until you drive it! The FIAT 500x Sport AWD features a 1.3L multi-air turbo engine that is smart-tech equipped to apply more traction on surfaces that don’t provide safe traction such as rain and ice. When good front-wheel traction returns, the smart-tech will automatically change its traction to suit the road in front of you. 

Melloy Dodge continues to stock FIAT 500X inventory, and it sells fast, but why wouldn't it? When you purchase a FIAT 500X you are purchasing timeless Italian style and no road is off-limits. Contact Melloy Dodge today, shop in-store or online, and know that when you buy from Melloy Dodge, you are getting the best "DEAL" out there! 

Winter Vehicle Checklist

Now that winter is here, you may live in an area that frequently receives snow or you are itching to venture into some! Melloy Dodge wants to remind you to take the time to go through this easy checklist before you end up in a position where you wish you had. 

Coolant: Checking coolant doesn’t seem like it should be a factor on your list, but coolant makes sure that the fluid in your radiator that contains a 50/50 water: antifreeze mixture does not freeze, especially if you are just out for the day to sled!

Battery: You may own a newer vehicle or you may own an older one, but one thing that needs to be checked is the water level in your battery. Starting a vehicle in subfreezing temperatures takes a major chemical electrical reaction, you want to make sure that it is good, otherwise, top it with distilled water. It’s also important to check the connections or take your vehicle to the Melloy Dodge Express Lane and the professional technicians there will take care of that for you!

Wiper Fluid: When you are driving on roads that are wet and muddy, have been salted, or are a mixture of snow and mud, these can decrease the visibility of your windshield, so be sure to make sure that fluid is topped off. 

Tires/Tire Pressure: You should do this routinely, but be sure to take a quick tire pressure read from each tire before hitting the road! Also, check to see if any of your tires are wearing thin and need to be replaced soon. 

Emergency Kit:  Planning for the worst-case scenario will put your mind at ease if something does happen. Be sure that your kit includes: Blankets, changes of clothes, socks, water, food, and a first aid kit! You could also make sure that you have the tools you need if you need to take off and replace a tire with your spare.  

Melloy Dodge encourages everyone to get out and explore the great state that New Mexico is. It offers a diverse set of scenery that can change in the blink of an eye. Before you head out, stop in at our Express Lane to get your vehicle’s oil changed, and while it’s there we will conduct our multi-point fluid checklist.

Types of Motor Oil

New vehicles have come a long way, and so has motor oil. When you purchase a new vehicle through Melloy Dodge, you are likely going to purchase one that requires synthetic motor oil. But, what's the difference between synthetic and conventional motor oil? The difference is in how well it lubricates your engine. 

 For starters, conventional motor oil is refined from crude oil, which means that there are other organic materials within the oil. Whereas, when your vehicle uses synthetic motor oil, it is man-made and features fewer contaminants. This is ideal because you want very little additional compounds being put in your engine that could cause damage.

 Synthetic oil does not break down as quickly as conventional-- you’ll notice the service department will write “oil change light” on your sticker because when you use synthetic, this oil can last longer than the 6-month window you typically get with conventional crude oil. Synthetic oil can last anywhere from 5,000 miles (conventional oil change time) to 12,000 miles before needing to be changed. This saves you money and it’s better for your vehicle.

 It’s also important to note that if you are wanting to switch from conventional motor oil to a synthetic you will need to schedule a service appointment which can be done online because there are additional steps we have to take to make sure we flush your engine to remove additional debris before switching to synthetic oil.

 At Melloy Dodge, our express lane is fast, simple, and works within your schedule. There is no need to call and schedule an oil change, you can simply drive into our express lane, and we take care of your vehicle maintenance. While you are waiting, you can enjoy refreshments or wait in our designated waiting area either inside or out. Melloy Dodge is an NM Certified Covid Safe Business!

How Long Should I Warm My Vehicle Up For?

You may be walking out to your frosted-over-vehicle in the mornings before work thinking “I really should have started it before now so that it can warm up.” While it is not highly recommended and there is no solid information about this practice, here are some helpful tips from our service techs at Melloy Dodge.  

Most modern engines come equipped with remote start technology which both starts your vehicle and keeps it locked. One of the advantages of remote start is that your vehicle can not be driven unless the remote key is in the vehicle and the ignition is turned on. The most your vehicle needs to warm to a temperature that is safe to drive at is a minimum of 30 seconds. 30 seconds allows oil to be redistributed to working areas of your engine and begins to warm everything else up. This will help eliminate additional wear and tear from cold start-up and driving immediately. 

 Melloy Dodge understands the need for a vehicle that warms quickly, and most modern engines do! We also stock vehicles that have steering wheel warmers as well as seat warmers so while the engines warm, you can still be warm too! If you are interested in purchasing a vehicle that has a remote start, contact one of our professional sales associates or shop our online inventory today! Come on down to Melloy Dodge "Where we always say, Deal" ™.

 * It's important to note that vehicles should not be left running alone.*

How To Safely "Break In" Your New Vehicle

Have you ever heard the phrase “Break in your new car gently”? Our vehicle experts have some safe ways to “break your vehicle in” when it is purchased with no or low mileage. It’s tempting to want to see what new power you wield, but first, here are some ways that will help prolong the life of your engine. 

Take it Easy: In the first 1,000 miles, it’s important to consider all of the moving parts. It takes time for everything to become properly lubricated, and by not pushing your engine too hard, you are ensuring that every moving part in your engine and transmission doesn’t experience intense wear right off the bat. 

Manual Transmission: If you have recently purchased a new manual vehicle from Melloy Dodge, we will tell you that when you shift gears the first 1,000 miles, it's best to do so at a low RPM. Switching consistently at a low RPM also is good for your fuel economy. 

Cold Floor Accelerating: The first 1,000 miles are so important for your new engine, try to avoid flooring your engine, when you do this, it doesn’t give your engine oil, piston ring, and cylinders proper time to work as efficiently as they should. Don’t worry those first 1,000 miles will be over with soon enough. 

Short Trip? Maybe not: Avoid taking trips that don’t give your engine plenty of time to warm up. When you drive your new vehicle and it doesn’t have enough time to warm up, it doesn’t allow the engine oil the proper temperature to coat all the working parts!

Towing Something Heavy?: It may not be the best idea. Sure, you have the power now, but towing already puts added strain on your engine, and it could even more damaging to tow something heavy with your new truck! 

First Oil Change: Your first oil change should take place within the first 200 miles. This is because everything is just starting to becoming lubricated, and by changing the oil, you are minimizing the amount of metal that builds up, that’s the reason for dark oil! 

There you have it! When you purchase your new vehicle at Melloy Dodge, you will hear us talk about the reasons why the first 1,000 miles can determine the proper performance of your vehicle for the years to come. Keep the RPM’s low, accelerate slowly, no towing, bring your vehicle up to highway speed without flooring it, and make sure your engine is warm! These tips will help you begin proper vehicle maintenance. Contact Melloy Dodge to see about purchasing a new vehicle or shop our online inventory.

The Effect of Salt On Vehicles

 

One of the many ways that our city officials take care of the roads during winter weather is to put a layer of salt and sand on main roads. By doing this, they are trying to lower the freezing point of the snow therefor the salt should melt the snow, making the roads easier and safer to drive on. Melly Dodge is committed to informing you about how to maintain and your vehicle even after you drive off the lot, and we want to let you know that if you drive on salted roads, you need to wash your vehicles. 

When our New Mexico roads receive a bit of snow, it can either melt as soon as the sun comes out or it can hang out and stay frozen if the temperatures are cold enough. Salt, when applied to the road and are driven on, kick up and lock sand and undissolved salts and can attach and build-up on the bottom of your vehicle as well as on the sides. It's important to know that salt is corrosive. The longer it sits on your vehicle, the salty snow and road grime will begin to eat away at your paint. When your paint is no longer acting as a protective agent for the metal, the lower part of your vehicle can begin to rust. The best way to protect any paint or metal damage to your vehicle is to wash it. 

Melloy Dodge values every customer that continues to utilize our departments, and while our service and parts departments can repair your damaged paint, informing our customers that the best way to protect your paint this winter is to get a car wash at least once a month and after every snowstorm! The northern parts of New Mexico are notorious for having free-standing mounds of snow on the sides of roads, and the salt that dissolved into the snow can melt back into the road and get back on your vehicle, so monthly car washes ensure the life of the paint on your car! If you are in the market for a new vehicle, be sure to check our site. You can order online and we can deliver to you!

Customers Come First At Melloy Dodge

Melloy Dodge has a lot to be proud of, even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and the overall challenges that 2020 has brought. It’s been a year that none of us will forget, and that in part has to do with one of the awards that Melloy Dodge worked hard to earn: The Customer First Award for Excellence! FCA US partnered with J.D. Powers to create an award for dealerships that take extra pride in their overall customer experience, from the start at sales and through the purchasing process. When you shop for a new or used vehicle at Melloy Dodge, your needs are our priority. Being a recipient of the Customer First Award for Excellence means that our customers should hold us the standard at which the award was given: our facility should be clean, our customer service should shine, and our commitment to you throughout the life of your vehicle remains important to us even after you leave our lot! Purchasing a new vehicle is a big deal, and here at Melloy Dodge we continue to aim for the highest customer satisfaction with every new or used vehicle purchase. Our sales associates are always ready and willing to help you get what you need and for a price within your budget! You can browse our inventory online and chat with us too. Be sure to visit Melloy Dodge, where we always say DEAL! 

How Antifreeze Works

 

Are you aware of the importance that Antifreeze plays in your vehicle? It helps lower the freezing point of the liquid in your radiator that keeps your engine from freezing and from overheating!  But you may still be wondering, what exactly is Antifreeze and what does it do? 

Antifreeze is a mixture of water and ethylene glycol, and its entire purpose is to keep your engine from freezing or overheating. Antifreeze is added to your radiator, which is part of your vehicle's cooling system. Antifreeze increases the boiling point to 223°F and decreases your radiators freezing point to -37°F!

The process to keep your engine operating within a certain range of temperatures lies within how your cooling system works: the antifreeze is pumped through the engine and the heater core and begins to absorb the excess heat, and then returns to the radiator where it can get rid of the excess heat by dissipating it from the outside air. 

Melloy Dodge is proud to offer our express lane! Our Express Lane is fast and easy and the best part is that there is no appointment required. During your service check, your oil will be checked and changed, fluids, including antifreeze levels, will be checked and added and your tires can be rotated. Stop in today, our express lane is located on the south side of our dealership, just follow the signs!