Fall Car Care Month Checklist: Winter is on the Way

October is Fall Car Care Month, and the Car Care Council reminds motorists that checking their vehicles before the temperatures drop is a sensible way to avoid being stranded out in the cold and the unexpected expense of emergency repairs.

“The last thing any driver needs is a vehicle that breaks down in cold, harsh winter weather. Winter magnifies existing problems like hard starts, sluggish performance and rough idling,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Whether you perform the check or maintenance yourself or go to the repair shop, it’s a small investment of time and money to ensure peace of mind, and help avoid the cost and hassle of a breakdown during severe weather.”

The Car Care Council recommends the following Fall Car Care Month checklist to make sure your vehicle is ready for cold winter weather ahead.

Heating, Wipers & Lights

• Make sure heaters, defrosters and wipers work properly.
• Consider winter wiper blades and use cold-weather washer fluid. As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six months.
• Check to see that all exterior and interior lights work and headlights are properly aimed.

Tires & Brakes

• Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure of all tires, including the spare. If snow and ice are a problem in your area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads.
• During winter, tire pressure should be checked weekly.
• Have the brakes checked. The braking system is the vehicle’s most important safety item.

Gas, Oil & Filters

• Keep your gas tank at least half full throughout the cold weather to prevent moisture from forming in gas lines and possibly freezing.
• Be diligent about changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals. Dirty oil can spell trouble in winter. Consider changing to “winter weight” oil if you live in a cold climate.
• Check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time.

System Checks – Charging, Cooling & Exhaust

• Have the battery and charging system checked, as cold weather is hard on batteries.
• Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in the cooling system. As a rule of thumb, this should be done every two years.
• Have the exhaust system checked for carbon monoxide leaks, which can be especially dangerous during cold weather driving when windows are closed.

Pack the Essentials

• Make sure that your ice scraper and snow brush are accessible and ready to use.
• Stock an emergency kit with jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, extra clothes, bottled water, nonperishable food and a first aid kit with any needed medication.

Source:  www.carcare.org

September is National Preparedness Month

For commuting or traveling any great distance by car, packing an emergency kit may make the difference between getting back on the road soon, or being stuck where you are for some time.

Such protection is something that every vehicle should have (along with a well-equipped first-aid kit). Yet most people carry only a few of the basic items they need to help them get back on the road quickly and safely if the run into a problem.

Above all, always carry the necessary equipment for changing a tire―a working jack, an inflated spare tire, a lug nut wrench or tire iron, and pipe for leverage. These items should always be stored in their designated place in your car's trunk or hatchback.

Recommended Items to Pack

Your emergency kit should include:

· Roadside flares
· A first-aid kit
· Work gloves or latex gloves
· Two quarts of oil
· Jumper cables
· One gallon of antifreeze
· Brake fluid
· Extra fuses
· A blanket
· A flashlight with fresh batteries
· A Phillips head screwdriver
· A flat head screwdriver
· Vise grips
· An adjustable wrench
· A pair of pliers
· A tire inflator
· A tire pressure gauge
· Some rags and a funnel
· A roll of duct tape
· A roll of paper towels
· A spray bottle with washer fluid
· An ice scraper
· An AAA or roadside emergency card
· Triangle reflectors and flares.
· A pocketknife
· Bottled water
· Granola or energy bars

You can use a cardboard box or large plastic container (such as a milk carton) for storage, so that it doesn't roll around in the trunk and you can quickly find what you need in an emergency. If space in your car is at a premium, you can use a basic version of the emergency kit, with a small first-aid kit; two roadside flares; a quart of oil; extra fuses; a flashlight; a multipurpose tool commonly containing pliers, wire cutters, a saw, a bottle opener, screwdrivers, files and an awl; a tire inflator, some rags, a pocket knife, and a help sign.

Several companies and organizations offer pre-assembled emergency roadside kits that contain essential items in a small, convenient carrier. You may also want to add a few of the items listed above to suit your needs.

Some definitely optional items to consider for your emergency kit include a Swiss Army knife, a good book, a pillow, a bathing suit, some tasty snacks, and a beach chair.

If you live in an area with freezing temperatures during the winter, you should also keep a collapsible shovel in your car in case you have to dig your way out of ice or snow.

Your Dress Rehearsal

Before you actually find yourself in an emergency situation, take time to become familiar with the items you've collected and how to use them correctly, because simply having in them in your possession is not enough. After all, it is easy to become flustered when the unexpected happens, and many of us (both male and female) are not too mechanically inclined.

Finally, having an emergency road kit may mean the difference between sitting on the side of the highway waiting for a tow truck or being able to make your way to your destination or suffering an injury of some sort.

Remember that the most important item at your disposal is your own good judgment.(For example, stopping to change a tire in the high-speed lane on the interstate is an invitation to disaster.)

Some Other Precautions

In addition to preparing your emergency kit and knowing how to use every item in it, consider the following common-sense guidelines to protect yourself and your family when you are on the road.
· Try to move your car completely off the road before taking any emergency measures.
· Do not stand near the edge of the highway while you are checking your vehicle.
· At night, turn on your flashers to signal that you need help.
· In daylight, raise the hood and tie a white cloth on the antenna or door handle of your car.
· Set out flares if you have them.
· If you have to repair your car at night, wear a fluorescent safety vest.
· While waiting for help to arrive, stay inside your car with the windows up and the doors locked.
· Do not accept a ride to any destination from a passing motorist.

Source: DMV.org

Back to School Means Sharing the Road | Subaru El Cajon

Slow Down!

Things get a little crazy on the roads during the school year: Buses are everywhere, kids on

 
bikes are hurrying to get to school before the bell rings, harried parents are trying to drop their kids off before work.

It's never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present – especially before and after school.

If You're Dropping Off

Schools often have very specific drop-off procedures for the school year. Make sure you know them for the safety of all kids. More children are hit by cars near schools than at any other location, according to the National Safe Routes to School program. The following apply to all school zones:

• Don't double park; it blocks visibility for other children and vehicles
• Don't load or unload children across the street from the school
• Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at the school

Sharing the Road with Young Pedestrians

According to research by the National Safety Council, most of the children who lose their lives in bus-related incidents are 4 to 7 years old, and they're walking. They are hit by the bus, or by a motorist illegally passing a stopped bus. A few precautions go a long way toward keeping children safe:

• Don't block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn,
  
  forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic
• In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection
• Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
• Take extra care to look out for children in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas
• Don't honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way
• Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians
• Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way

Sharing the Road with School Buses

If you're driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. It will give you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children.

• Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you're on an undivided road
  
  – if it is stopped to load or unload children
• If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop
• The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus
• Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks

Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

On most roads, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as vehicles, but bikes can be hard to see. Children riding bikes create special problems for drivers because usually they are not able to properly determine traffic conditions. The most common cause of collision is a driver turning left in front of a bicyclist.

• When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave 3 feet between your car and the cyclist
• When turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass
• If you're turning right and a bicyclists is approaching from behind on the right, let the rider go through the intersection first, and always use your turn signals
• Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling; children especially have a tendency to do this
• Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods
• Watch for bikes coming from driveways or behind parked cars
• Check side mirrors before opening your door

By exercising a little extra care and caution, drivers and pedestrians can co-exist safely in school zones.

Source: http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/back-to-school-safety-tips-for-drivers.aspx

Getting Your Teen Their First Car: A How To

Make sure you're setting them up for safety right from the start.

1. Choose the Right Car

Let's face it, if you left the decision up to your teen, you would probably end up with either a huge SUV or a suped up sports car, neither of which is particularly safe for a young, new driver. However, there are plenty of options out there to make both you and your teen happy. And with the right research, you can find a car that is not only fun to drive, but also safe and reliable, too.

Choosing a midsize car is the best way to go, according to The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety and the Insurance Information Institute. Depending on your budget, you can opt for either a new or used model - just make sure the car is in good condition with updated safety features like airbags and electronic stability control. Also, you'll want to check out crash test and safety ratings before making your final purchase.

Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider, especially in today's economy. Unless you're willing to cover the cost of filling your son or daughter's tank each week, buying your teen a gas guzzler is probably not a good idea.

2. Get the Best Auto Insurance Rate

The truth is that no matter what car you choose, insuring your teen driver will increase your auto insurance rates. But there are some things that you can do to make these costs as manageable as possible. In fact, another great reason to opt for safety first at the car dealership is that it can help keep your auto insurance premiums down. Because safer cars tend to have a lower accident risk, they are usually less expensive to insure.

Another way to get the best auto insurance rates possible is to scope out potential discounts. If your teen is a full-time student, for instance, he or she may be eligible for a good student discount. Researching your options beforehand will help you to make an informed decision when trying to find the right car for your teen.

3. Set Boundaries

Choosing a good car and purchasing the right auto insurance are only the first steps in keeping your teen safe on the road. Talking with your teen about safe driving and setting clear rules and guidelines are also important. To ensure that your teen stays safe behind the wheel, you can:

• Limit the number of passengers your teen can have in his or her car at any one time;
• Establish a "no cell phone" policy to ensure that your teen does not text or call while driving;
• Discuss what to do in cases of emergency, including accidents and adverse weather conditions.

Regular Car Checks Recommended During High Summer Temperatures

Staying on top of your car's systems during the height of summer can help ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car's battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle's radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges.

The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris.

Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it's important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner's manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle's tires.

"It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council reminds motorists that the vehicle's exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visithttp://www.carcare.org/.

Source: Car Care Council

Take your 4-Legged Friend Along | Subaru El Cajon

When you just can't leave them behind find adventures you can share.

Dedicated dog owners know the gut-wrenching feeling that comes with each departure, be it for a day or for a week. It's a pang of guilt brought on by big sad eyes and a tilted head, asking why you're leaving.

Click here to see All The Great Vacations for You and Your Dog

Unless you're one of the few who has found a quality boarding center or an all-star pet sitter, you worry about how they're doing each day you're gone. It doesn't feel right to leave a family member home from a trip. This summer bring your pup along on an adventure tailor-made just for him.

It may seem like traveling with your dog is a bit out of the norm, especially if he's big, but that's only because travelers are hesitant to bring their pups on planes. From the TSA rules and regulations to the sedation medication they'll need to stay calm, many travelers prefer to drive with their pets instead.

When you include travelers who decided to drive, in the last three years, 29.1 million people took their pets on trips at least 50 miles from home, according to Ark Animals. Unsurprisingly, dogs were the most frequently traveled with pet, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all pet travel.

The trend is growing and pet accommodations are better than ever, but there are a few things you should remember before you take your dog globetrotting.

Tips for Traveling with Dogs:

• Have your dog checked out by the vet before you leave for your trip. You should also research vet offices around your destination in case of emergency.
• Remember to bring a crate, all tags and vaccination information and a picture of your pooch. Airlines and hotels often require proof of vaccination and a crate. The picture will help should you lose your dog in a foreign place.
• It's a good idea to request a room on the first floor, near an exit, so you can easily leave to walk your dog.

Whether you and your dog are into hiking, swimming or even surfing, there's a great vacation out there for both of you. Take a look at these great summer vacations for you and your dog.

Resource: http://www.theactivetimes.com/10-great-summer-vacations-you-and-your-dog?utm_source=huffington%2Bpost&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=petfriendly

Get ready for your next Summer Road Trip | Subaru El Cajon

8 tips for making the most of your summer road trip

If you do them right, road trips can be a fun way to explore the country while going from point A to point B. If you do them wrong, they can be incredibly boring and frustrating. Make the most of your road trip this summer with some tips we’ve amassed over the years (and across the miles). 

1. Plan out extra time: Road trips work best when you plan yourself plenty of extra time for pit stops and excursions along the way. You’ll likely be traveling through areas you may otherwise have no reason to pass through, which can make for some pretty cool excursions along the way.

2. Do your research: Do some scouting in advance, making a rough itinerary for your travels. It’s good to know which cities you plan on sleeping in, whether you’re making hotel reservations or camping. See which cities you’ll pass through along the way, and see what piques your interest. Are there cute, locally owned diners along your route? What about funky tourist attractions or ghost towns that are right off the roadside? There are also lots of road trip-centric apps you can download to help you while you’re on the road. 

3. Enjoy nature: After all that driving, it’s always nice to be able to get out and stretch your legs for a bit and take in the scenery. A nice walk or some time spent outside in the sunshine can do wonders for your mood (and your body). 

4. Pump up the jams: We’re big fans of mixed CDs for long road trips, carefully curated for the scenery you’ll be traveling. Play some Emmylou Harris as you make your way through the South, or have some Beach Boys albums ready for your trip up the Pacific Coast Highway.

5. Perfect podcasts: Smartphones make listening to podcasts in your car an easy prospect, and the miles fly by when you’re engrossed in a great story or interview. Some of our favorites include “This American Life,” “The TED Radio Hour,” Grantland’s “The Lowe Post,” “The Canon” and “Dan Carlin’s Hardcore History.” 

6. Play games: When we were growing up, the license plate game was one of our favorite ways to pass time out on the road. (That, and annoying our folks with “100 Bottles of Beer on the Wall.”) Print out a map of the country to take along, so you can mark them off as you go. 

7. Pack wisely: Aside from your clothes and toiletries, it’s important to bring along a phone charger, cash, snacks, a cooler and a map (they can be fun to have along, even if we rely on our phones a lot these days). (And don’t pack too heavily: You want to have room for the souvenirs and knick-knacks you pick up along the way.)

8. Prep your car: Make sure your car is in good shape before you set off on your trip. Getting stranded on the side of the road is the worst. (On that note, always start off with a full tank of gas.) If you car's not in the best shape, it may be a good idea to look into a rental for your travels.

Resource: http://www.timesreporter.com/article/ZZ/20150603/NEWS/150609953

2016 Subaru WRX and STI get new safety, tech equipment | Subaru of El Cajon | New & Used Car Dealer

 

The Subaru WRX and STI were just thoroughly revamped, but the Japanese brand has decided to tweak the offerings slightly for the 2016 model year. The changes include some upgraded safety systems, and as a possible blasphemy to fans, a smaller wing is being offered on the STI. The latest versions should hit dealers in the summer, but prices grow slightly. A base WRX is $300 more than last year at at $26,595 (plus $795 destination on all of them), and the cheapest STI is $34,695, a $200 increase.

The WRX is undoubtedly fun to drive already, but the Premium and Limited trims now ride on standard 18-inch wheels with summer performance tires. For added in-car entertainment, Subaru is giving all models, including the STI, its 6.2-inch Starlink infotainment system that includes a rearview camera. Vehicles with navigation get a seven-inch version.

Driving a WRX might be just a little safer too because Subaru is offering its EyeSight system with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist as an option on the Limited with the CVT. It's packaged with things like the nav system, upgraded radio, keyless start, and steering-responsive foglights for $4,095. The same trim with the six-speed manual gets a similar bundle but replaces some of the safety tech with just blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert for $3,100.

In perhaps the most contentious change, the STI Limited trim is now available with a tiny, trunk lip spoiler as a no-cost option. Seeing the aggressive sedan without the big wing certainly looks odd in photos, and it's still available for buyers who want it.

 

Why Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Subaru at Subaru El Cajon

Subaru models are well known for outlasting their competitors on the roads, and they'll run like new for years with the right care and maintenance.  At Subaru El Cajon, we have a wide selection of new Subaru models on our lot, but if you're looking for an extremely reliable, high quality car at a lower price point, then we strongly recommend that you test drive one of our Certified Pre-Owned cars.

Each and every Certified Pre-Owned Subaru goes through a 152-point safety inspection, guaranteeing that it surpasses the brand's extremely high standards of safety.  If anything does not exceed our standards, it is repaired or replaced.  Our inspections check everything from brake pads to tire tread depth by certified Subaru technicians, and their reports are available for you to look through.

When you buy a Certified Pre-Owned car from us, you can rest assured that it is factory-covered, fully checked, and ready to take you on your next adventure.

Call us today at (888) 801-2450 or submit the form below to schedule a test drive at your earliest convenience.

 Every Certified Pre-Owned Subaru also Comes with:

• 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Plan
• $0 deductible on standard plans
• Factory-backed coverage
• CARFAX Vehicle History Report
• 24/7 roadside assistance

2014 Stellar Care Award | Subaru El Cajon

 

IT'S ALL ABOUT You.

Only the most dedicated Subaru dealers earn the Subaru Stellar Care Award. It is one of the greatest honors in the eyes of our company and only an elite group of Subaru dealers achieve this recognition each year. Those who earn the coveted Stellar Care award demonstrate excellence in all areas of customer-focused performance.

What does this mean to you? The best dealership experience possible, one that we hope will have you coming back for many years ahead.

TO EARN THE SUBARU STELLAR CARE AWARD...

Our dealership must achieve and maintain Stellar Care performance standards and objectives. The list is long and the expectations are high. We must pass continual review by our customers and meet annual objectives established by Subaru of America, Inc. in many areas, including:

Facility

Our Sales and Service Departments must conform to Stellar Care standards for cleanliness and comfort inside and out. You're more than a customer. You're our guest.

Sales Operations

From meet and greet to test drive to delivery, our sales consultants must earn customer-generated performance scores that meet or exceed Stellar Care Award objectives.

Service Operations

Highly skilled, factory-trained technicians and a state-of- the-art facility with the most current diagnostic and repair equipment available help us maintain ongoing Stellar Care Award scores.

Training

Today's automotive technology is more complex than ever before. Our technicians must stay on top of the latest training and techniques in order for us to maintain Stellar Care status.

Finance Department

Our team of financing professionals specialize in assisting customers with their unique credit and insurance needs. Positive feedback from customers helps us maintain our Stellar Care status.

WHATEVER IT TAKES
TO STAND Above THE REST.

Our dealership voluntarily participates in the Subaru Stellar Care program. This nationwide program recognizes Subaru dealers who choose to institute the highest standards of excellence at their dealership. It is an annual achievement and under continuous review.

Participation in all customer-focused Subaru programs is required for Stellar Care Award status.

WE'D LOVE YOUR FEEDBACK.

Have a comment or suggestion for making your experience at our dealership a better one? Please let us know right away.

Subaru "I Survived Stories" | Subaru El Cajon | New & Used Cars for Sale

Subaru vehicles are known for being among the safest cars on the road. Hear a first-hand account from the Subaru “I Survived” Stories. Episode 1 finds us in Patterson, New York where Daniel Barahona tells us how his Subaru Legacy made all the difference in an especially dangerous situation.

Three Subaru Models Named in 2015 Top Picks |

three Subaru models rank in the top ten of the 2015 top picks, named in a leading consumer publication. The publication's list highlights standout models in 10 popular car categories.

Subaru is proud of its strong results as the only manufacturer to have three models make the list. Subaru's standouts include the Subaru Forester, Legacy and Impreza. To make the list, all picks must meet stringent criteria based on road testing, reliability and safety.

This latest acknowledgement adds to Subaru's suite of recent accolades: The 2015 Subaru Legacy was most recently named overall Canadian Car of the Year by AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada). The Subaru Forester, Legacy and Impreza all earned a TOP SAFETY PICK and TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS for front crash prevention by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). In fact, Subaru is the only manufacturer to have all of its models named a TOP SAFETY PICK by the IIHS for six consecutive years (2010-2015). When equipped with EyeSight, five different Subaru models - the Legacy, Outback, Forester, Impreza, and XV Crosstrek - meet the tougher standards for front crash prevention required and earn the coveted 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation.

5 Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Car | Subaru El Cajon CA New & Used Cars for Sale

Here are Five Spring Car Maintenance Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Remove leftover salt

Salt, used on roads to melt ice and snow, can cause serious damage to cars, especially their undercarriages where metal can rust. Take your car to a highly rated car wash to eliminate salt, and check that the business has sprayers that clean the undercarriage.

2. Check alignment and suspension
Driving over potholes can damage your car’s alignment and suspension. You might have a problem if you notice that the car pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates as you drive. An alignment check typically costs $25 to $40.

3. Change oil and check fluids

“If your last oil change was before winter, then this is a great time to do it, spring is also an ideal time to flush your transmission fluid. It’s one of the most neglected services. Mechanics say spring is a good time to check your car's fluid levels. Waiting too long to change your fluids can lead to a costly repair. Mechanics recommend changing your car’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.Don’t forget to check window washing fluid levels, as well as your brake and cooling system fluids.

4. Rotate tires and check air pressure
You should check the tire pressure, including the spare should you ever need it. Your car’s tires affect the ride, handling, traction and safety.Mechanics recommend tire rotation every 5,000 miles to keep tread wear even.One of the biggest issues we see is the front tires wearing out prematurely.

5. Inspect brakes
Nothing, perhaps, is more important than having brakes that function properly. Have a technician check the pads and rotors to ensure there are no safety issues. Neglecting them can lead to a costlier repair down the line.

Subaru Viziv Vision Gran Turismo Concept: Video | Subaru El Cajon

Actually, Subaru says the Viziv GT is based on the same styling theme as the Viziv 2 plug-in hybrid concept that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, although it's hard to believe this low-slung coupe and that crossover could have much in common.

Both concepts feature a similar headlight and grille treatment, which could become the new face of Subaru in the future. The Viziv GT adds to that with aggressive, WRX-like fender flares and a massive rear spoiler. 

2015 Subaru WRX: Best Car To Buy Nominee | Subaru El Cajon

The undeniable new-car performance bargain of the moment, the 2015 Subaru WRX puts up a spec-sheet-to-dollars display of efficiency that no other car can really match. For the price of a Scion FR-S, you can run with much of the world’s elite road cars in nearly any conceivable setting. That’s saying a lot.

And that’s why the 2015 Subaru WRX is among Motor Authority’s nominees for our Best Car To Buy 2015 award.

With a $27,000 base price and a 268-hp turbocharged four-cylinder both standard equipment (as well as a slightly ropey six-speed manual gearbox), the WRX can clock 0-60 mph in a (conservative, official) 5.5 seconds. The WRX also comes with all-wheel-drive, and it gets about 25 mpg in our mixed-driving experience.

That’s a list of things you don’t often see together—at least not at that price point.

And if you want to turn up the wick (on both performance and price) even further, there’s always the WRX STI.

Priced at about $40,000 and up, the WRX STI packs 305 horsepower, a quicker steering ratio, an upgraded suspension and gearbox, and a more performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system with SI-Drive, and more.

Even at the WRX STI’s price point, it’s a remarkable value, capable of outrunning the WRX and much more expensive cars, too. But for our money, the WRX is the best value, with plenty of potential for modification and upgrades to beyond-STI performance if the owner should so desire.

The interior is, definitely, still econo-car derived. There’s not a whole lot of support or appeal to the seats, either. The back seat is still pretty tight, even though the newest WRX feels like a larger car than its forebears. But all of that can’t rain on the parade of the smiling driver behind the wheel of a 2015 Subaru WRX. It’s just too compelling, too good, to do anything but put your foot to the floor, smile, and hang on.