Sunday, May 22, 2022

Dodge Hornet in Albuquerque

 It’s a few months down the road, but Dodge is preparing to return the Hornet to its lineup of vehicles in the US market. A report published in the Detroit News and confirmed by Dodge’s CEO says the Hornet will be revealed in August 2022. It’s thought that the Hornet will come equipped with Dodge’s latest Uconnect T infotainment system and offered as a 256 hp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

 It’s unclear for now whether a traditional gas engine or hybrid model will be available as well as an electric. The crossover SUV-styled vehicle is expected to be a four-door model, perfect for families or as an entry-level vehicle. It’s expected price point is thought to be around $30,000. 

Dodge Hornet

The Hornet appears to share architecture with manufacturer Stellantis’ Alfa Romeo Tonale. If the Hornet follows the Tonale closely, it would be an all-wheel drive, with an option for the plug-in hybrid model.

 The Hornet would be below the full-size Dodge Durango SUV and be similar to models such as the Kia Seltos or Mazda CX-30. If Hornet aligns with the Durango trim packages, we might see the value based SXT model, the sportier GT and R/T trims, or even the more luxurious Citadel trim. That means there will be a new Dodge Hornet available in many price points!

 A lot in yet to be determined about the Dodge Hornet but when it comes to Albuquerque, you’ll be able to find it at Melloy Dodge on Coors. We’ve been serving the transportation needs of New Mexicans for more than 60 years! If you’re interested in a 2024 Dodge Hornet, be sure to connect with a new car representative at Melloy Dodge, who will keep you up-to-date on the Hornet’s options, cost, and expected arrival date.


(Image courtesy of MotorTrend, April 28, 2022)

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Spring Cleaning: Car Care Tips for Spring

 Warm spring weather may mean more driving and time spent in your car. Get it ready for summer vacation with these spring cleaning tips.

     ·     Tidy up the interior, removing any trash. Remove the floor mats and shake vigorously, then                     vacuum them really well.
  • Vacuum the rest of the interior, using a narrow tool in the crevices to get out small rocks, crumbs and lint.
  • Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the dashboard, cup holders, the ventilation areas, armrests, and other surfaces.
  • Sort through the console and discard unneeded items. You may want to add a small packet of tissues, extra sunglasses, a pack of gum, or other convenience items you need while driving.
  • Check the trunk. If there are boxes or heavy items you’ve been meaning to get rid of, now’s the time. Extra weight in your vehicle cuts down on fuel efficiency, so your miles per gallon could be less than you could be getting. Organize necessary items into a small box so they stay tidy.
  • Wash the exterior and dry with a chamois or microfiber cloth to avoid water spots.
  • Wash the tires and apply a protectant. This is also a good time to check the tread and make sure your tires still have some life to them. To do that, insert a quarter into the tread with Washington’s head pointed inward toward the wheel. If the top of his head is still covered by tire tread, your tires are okay. If his head is not covered, it’s time for new tires. Be sure to check multiple places on each tire.

 If you find your vehicle needing tires or if it’s time for an oil change or other service, see the service professionals at Melloy Dodge on Coors Blvd. in Albuquerque. Our Express Lane offers no-appointment, drive-in service. Our full Service Department is available for more extensive automotive repairs. Both service all makes and models.

 And if you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade to a new Dodge orRam, or if you’re looking for a preowned car, truck, or SUV, shop our online inventory. You can purchase online, even have your vehicle delivered to you. For any questions, please contact Melloy Dodge, serving New Mexican’s automotive needs for more than 60 years.



Tuesday, May 10, 2022

Diesel Truck Maintenance Tips


A diesel truck is a powerful piece of equipment, and with today’s Hemi engines, the Ram trucks sold today should be on the road for many, many years to come – if properly maintained.

A HEMI engine usually has cylinders that have a domed head (instead of the traditional flat head) and a hemispherical combustion chamber. This design can provide more engine power than a conventional engine because of a higher compression ratio that augments the combustion process.

The most importance maintenance points for a diesel engine include these points:

  • Check your coolant. Over time, coolant can become more acidic and over time, that can damage other parts in the cooling system such as the radiator. Have the coolant checked and flushed on the schedule recommended in your driver’s manuals.

·         Change the oil. The oil cools, protects and lubricates all the moving parts in the diesel engine. If the oil level gets too low or if it’s dirty, it will impact the engine and could lead to mechanical issues. Most diesels are recommended to have an oil change every 5,000 to 7,000 miles or every six months, especially important if you tow. Again, read your owner’s manuals.

·         Check the air filter and fuel filter. In New Mexico’s dusty climate, keeping the air filter clean is important. When you have your diesel truck serviced at the Melloy Dodge Express Lane in Albuquerque, we’ll keep you updated on when the filter has been blown to remove loose dirt and when it’s time to replace it. Fuel filters should also be checked and replaced on the recommended schedule. Typically, that’s around the 15,000 mile mark, but if you tow frequently or drive in very dusty conditions, it may be better to do around the 10,000 mile mark.

 Melloy Dodge Express Lane offers no-appointment oil changes and routine maintenance. For money-saving coupons on diesel oil changes, as well as conventional or synthetic oil changes for other vehicles, visit our Savings page on our website. Any make or model, we’ll help keep you on the road, safely and cost-efficiently.