Winter Driving Tips

Safe Winter Driving Tips from Herman Jenkins Motors Inc.

During winter months, keep abreast of weather reports in your area. If snow or ice is predicted, make plans to leave early or arrive later. An alarm clock set to an earlier time can be a good friend in helping you avoid difficulties.

If you can move a night trip to daylight hours, do so. Not only is visibility better, but if your vehicle is stalled, you are more likely to receive prompt assistance during the daytime.

Prepare your vehicle for winter driving; use this checklist:

1. Check windshield wiper blades to make sure they work properly. In some areas, snow blades are an effective alternative to conventional wiper blades.

2. Have your mechanic test the anti-freeze/coolant to provide the correct level of protection required in your driving area.

3. Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflation can reduce the gripping action of tires because the tread will not meet the road surface as it was designed to do. Overinflation has the same effect.

4. If you live in areas where snow and ice are certainties of winter, don't depend on all-season tires. Instead, install snow tires. Snow tires are made of softer components and have a unique tread design that provide better traction and road-gripping abilities.

5. Keep your gas tank at least half-full. The extra volume can help reduce moisture problems within your fuel system. It also adds helpful weight to your vehicle.

6. In rear-wheel drive vehicles, extra weight in the trunk may be helpful. Use care-- unsecured weight can shift while you are moving or if you have to stop suddenly. Bags of sand can provide weight and, if sprinkled on the ice, sand helps provide traction.

* Before you leave your driveway, scrape the ice and snow from every window and the exterior rear view mirrors, not just a small patch on the windshield. Don't forget to remove snow from headlights and brake lights.

* Try to remove ice and snow from your shoes before getting in your vehicle. As they melt, they create moisture build-up, causing windows to fog on the inside. You can reduce this fogging by turning the air recirculation switch to the OFF position. This brings in drier, fresh air. Also, run your air conditioner which becomes a dehumidifier for a few minutes.

* You and your passengers should all use safety belts, both lap and shoulder straps.

* Adjust head rests. Rear-end collisions are common in winter driving and a properly-adjusted head rest can prevent or reduce neck injuries.

* Before you shift into gear, plan the best route to your destination. Try to Avoid hills, congestion areas and bridges.

* Although your radio can provide helpful traffic information, it can also be a distraction for some drivers. Since driving is more a mental skill than a physical skill, you may want to keep it turned off.

* Don't use a cellular phone when driving on ice or snow. Even if you have a hands-free model, you need to concentrate on driving, not on a telephone conversation.

* Drive slowly and remember posted speed limits identify the maximum speed allowed in ideal weather conditions. Law enforcement agencies can write citations to motorists driving the posted speed limit if weather conditions warrant a slower speed. Be alert to the actions of other drivers.

* Anticipate cars coming from side streets and put extra distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. If someone is too close behind you, don't speed up; slow down or let them go around you.

* To make sure other drivers see you, always drive with your lights on. At night, in fog and heavy snow conditions, low beams may be more effective than high beams.

* Keep a light touch on the brakes. Even with anti-lock braking systems (sometimes called ABS), apply light pressure to avoid locking the brakes and causing a skid. Pumping the brake pedal should be smooth action, going from light to firm. Tip toe to slow is a good motto for winter drivers.

* Keep both hands on the wheel and keep the wheel pointed where you want your car to go. While it may sound overly simple, it could help you in a skid. While manual transmissions may provide greater control to assist with braking, be careful when using downshifting as a way to slow the vehicle. Gear changes, particularly abrupt ones, can upset a vehicle's balance and cause a skid to occur, especially in turns.

* Keep your vehicle stocked with simple emergency equipment in case you do get stalled or have an accident. Consider keeping these items in your vehicle:

- blanket or extra clothes
- candle with matches
- snacks
- beverages (never alcohol)
- flares
- C. B. radio, cellular phone or ham radio
- a small shovel
- flashlight
- windshield scraping device
- tow rope
- bag of sand or cat litter for traction
- long jumper cables
(for more on building a winter emergency kit, click here.)

If you do have trouble, run the engine only briefly to run the heater, not continuously. Carbon monoxide can accumulate more easily in a non-moving vehicle.

Severe engine damage may occur if the motor runs for long periods when the vehicle is not in motion. Warming up a car prior to travel is a common practice, but most engines don't need more than a minute at most to circulate oil to all internal parts. Check your vehicle's owner's
manual for information about your engine.

Drive For The Kids Program - Kenton School

OUT FOR A SPIN - Herman Jenkins Motors, represented by general manager Lynn Jenkins (back, center) and salesman Michael Miles (to the left of Jenkins), helped raise $1,100 for Kenton School with its mini-van Drive For The Kids Program, recently held in the gymnasium during the school's Fall Festival. The check was accepted by Booster Club president Marty Lannom ( to the right of Jenkins) and several students. The Chrysler Division of Chrysler donated $10 per test drive of every Chrysler mini-van with an evaluation form. Chrysler Town & Country mini-vans and other Chrysler products were provided for parents and friends to test drive and evaluate. Herman Jenkins Motors supplied the vehicles and staff to assist in the fund raising activity. Jenkins said Drive For The Kids is a mutually beneficial program. "We're interested in helping the schools and everyone has a good time," he said. "Parents are genuinely interested in testing and enjoying the new Chrysler vehicles and we're able to provide additional dollars to schools in our area."

Chrysler Expanding 60-Day Return Incentive

Chrysler has been allowing buyers of its Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans to return them within 60 days if they weren’t satisfied with the purchase. Now the company is expanding the program to most Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles. Only the Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Viper are excluded.

They’ll also pay for the first two months of payments up to $1,000 total. Chrysler says they’ll take the return “no questions asked,” but buyers will still be on the hook for fees, finance charges and negative equity, which could be significant. We list all the fine print below.

Chrysler is also offering 0% financing for 60 months on 2010 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles through Aug. 2.

PROGRAM PERIOD:
July 7-Aug. 2, 2010

PROGRAM TYPE:
Refer to Incentive Program Rules (previously referred to as the Gold Book and revised on July 3, 2007) and Incentive Summary Communications.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:
The 60 Day Pledge Plus is available on all 2010 Model Year Chrysler Group vehicles (except Viper and Wrangler) financed thru GMAC.

The Pledge Plus consists of two separate and incompatible programs. The customer must choose one of the following options at the time of sale.

• 40CAB - 60 Day Pledge Plus
This program offers a 60 Day Hassle Free Return Guarantee and the first two (2) payments at no charge to the consumer - $500 Maximum per month times two (2) months for a maximum consumer benefit of $1,000. (Type 1 sales only.) Dealer must claim 40CAB if customer selects this option.
or
• All Consumer Incentives
including the following but not limited to: Consumer Cash / Incentivized APR / GMAC Bonus Cash / Lease Cash / Bonus Cash / Select Returning Lessee
Customer must sign the 60 Day Pledge Plus Acknowledgement form to signify which plan was chosen.

Fleet / Commercial vehicle sales are not eligible for 40CAB

Eligible vehicles must be delivered during the program period.

Consumers electing the 60 Day Pledge Plus (40CAB) must finance thru GMAC in order to qualify

There is no sold order protection for this program.

PARTICIPATING DEALERS:
All franchised Chrysler Group LLC dealers who agree to abide by these Official Program Rules are eligible to participate.

At the time of delivery of an eligible vehicle (all retail type 1 sales except Wrangler and Viper), the customer must sign the Pledge Plus Customer Acknowledgement Form, and select whether or not he/she is accepting the 60 Day Pledge Plus incentive or all consumer rebates. The dealer is responsible for retaining this form in the deal jacket.

If the customer selects the 60 Day Pledge Plus: a copy of the acknowledgment form must be included in the GMAC Contract Discounting Package. Failure to include this form will result in the customer being billed for the first / second payment.

If a dealer sells a vehicle to a customer who chooses the 60 Day Pledge Plus Option (40CAB), the selling dealer MUST accept the vehicle return at the stated reimbursement price if the customer decides to exercise his option and has a qualifying vehicle.

MODEL ELIGIBILITY:
Eligible Models: All 2010 MY vehicles except Wrangler (ALL) and Viper

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY:
If the customer chooses the 60 Day Pledge Plus Return Option, the following requirements are in effect.

A copy of the acknowledgment form must be included in the GMAC Contract Discounting Package. Failure to include this form will result in the customer being billed for the first / second payment.

At the time of delivery of an eligible vehicle, the customer must sign the 60 Day Pledge Plus Customer Acknowledgement Form which explains the program parameters and eligibility for consideration of vehicle return. Dealer faxes form to cynoSure Financial Inc. at 586-771-3867.

To initiate a vehicle return, the customer must contact cynoSure Financial Inc (CFI) at Toll-free number 877-354-3871 to obtain the Request for Benefit form. CFI call center hours are: Monday - Friday; 8:00 am - 9:00 EST.

CFI will require the following documentation from the customer:* Signed and completed Request for Benefit form* Copy of Retail Sales Contract* Copy of Driver's License* Copy of Registration showing eligible vehicle in customer's name* Copy of Proof of Insurance verifying eligible vehicle has been insured since the delivery date* Any other documentation the Administrator may request
CFI will determine vehicle eligibility and facilitate inspection of the vehicle at the selling dealership.

The customer will be reimbursed for the purchase price of the vehicle (after any rebates or discounts), and applicable sales taxes that were actually paid. In states where collecting paid taxes is allowed, dealer is responsible for collecting applicable taxes.

Customer will NOT be reimbursed for:
• License
• Title
• Registration fees
• Insurance
• Accessories
• Dealer fees
• Extended warranties
• Finance charges
• Negative equity
• Any other expenses incurred at the time of delivery of the new vehicle

The vehicle must be returned to the original selling dealer in good, undamaged, and like new condition after 30 days of ownership and within 60 days of the delivery date.

The customer will be responsible for a $0.40 per mile driven (odometer reading). The vehicle cannot have more than 4,000 miles on the odometer starting from the delivery date.

Normal "wear and tear" is acceptable; however the vehicle cannot have damages in excess of $200. If damages are over $200, the vehicle no longer qualifies for the program. Any vehicle involved in an accident will not qualify for the program.

Herman Jenkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep
2030 West Reelfoot Ave.
Union City, TN 38261
1-877-478-1461

Questions? Email us:Click Here To Email Your Question

Herman Jenkins Motors Inc.

Top Ten 4th of July Driving Tips

The period around the 4th of July holiday means freedom and fun to most people, but it's also one of the deadliest periods of the year for drivers. If you're driving during the holiday period, don't miss these tips...


Car accidents traditionally increase during the summer months, especially during the holidays, when alcohol and long road trips are involved. When many people think of the 4th of July, they think of America's independence, cook-outs, family gatherings, road trips and fireworks. But what most people don't think of is road safety.

With July 3rd and July 4th being two of the deadliest days to drive, Herman Jenkins Motors offers these Top Ten 4th of July Driving Tips.

1. Check your tires. The last thing you want is your own "fireworks display" while on the highway. Check your tire pressure before you leave for a road trip. Low tire levels can potentially reduce fuel efficiency, as well as being a safety issue.

2. Make sure your battery has enough juice. If it has been a few years since you replaced your car battery, you might want to do so before you leave on your 4th of July vacation. It is better to be safe than sorry when you are traveling far from home. If your battery is old, toss the jumper cables in the trunk before you leave.

3. Turn on your lights. Check your headlights, tail lights and turn signals before you start a trip. To ensure everything is working properly, have a friend walk around the car while you test the car lights and signals from the inside.

4. Pack a first aid kit and roadside assistance kit. While you're at it, consider packing a cooler of water, a flash light, non-perishable food and extra batteries. Make sure your cell phone has enough charge, and bring your phone's charger or extra battery along – just in case.

5. Don't drink and drive. Whether you are at a cook-out close to home or traveling to see fireworks, drinking and driving don't mix. Play it safe this 4th of July with a designated driver or call for a cab.

6. Buckle Up. Wearing seatbelts every time you drive is the easiest way to help keep you and your family safe in the event of an accident. If you are traveling with small children, make sure they are in a proper car or booster seat for their age group and height.

7. Watch your speed. State and local police officers will be out in full force during the 4th of July week. So watch the local speed limits and keep a safe distance from the cars in front of you. A speeding ticket can mean points on your driver's license and a potential increase in your auto insurance rate.

8. Don't let rain ruin your trip. Check the weather before you leave and during your trip. If you do get caught in a torrential downpour, pull off to the side of the road until the rain stops. And never drive through a flooded area. Try to find an alternative route – a slight delay beats being stranded in a flooded car.

9. Think twice about fireworks at home. Even sparklers are dangerous and unpredictable when kids light them. While your home insurance may cover injuries, we suggest leaving fireworks to the pros.

10. Pack proof of car insurance. Whether you are traveling close to home or out-of-state, you should always have your proof of car insurance in your wallet or glove box. If you don't have a cell phone or other portable device that takes pictures and video, it's a good idea to keep a disposable camera, note pad and pen in your car, just in case an accident occurs.

Happy 4th of July from Herman Jenkins Motors!

New Car Technology Advancements

Car technology is advancing at amazing speed so it's no surprise that at least a couple cool things turn up each model year. Here are some of the latest innovations that will be coming out sometime in the near future that new car buyers can look forward to seeing.

Economy Mode

While we consider that most of us drivers are set in their ways and odds are we will never make the necessary changes to conserve on fuel. One example of such would be, we know that by simply not using our AC increases our fuel economy when we drive, but rather than just rolling down our window when we could to save fuel we opt to use the air conditioner to keep us cool. We are simply set in our ways when it comes to running our AC even when we could be just as comfortable at this time with a window down. With the new idea and innovation of the Economy Mode the car it will be able to determine what systems in your car are non-essential at the time and turn them off to save on fuel for the driver; examples could be the AC, Cruise Controls and others. The car would begin making these adjustments for the driver automatically. It's not just an idea in fact; some Hybrids feature an economy mode that limits A/C use on several models right now.

Black Box Technology

Planes have them and cars will too, and why not the Black box on planes have be literally invaluable for many years with its ability to get detail records of trips and logs of what happens to a plane in flight or when accidents occur. It's still being debated like most things that come to personal privacy and many people will no doubt object to the idea of the black box being implemented into their personal vehicles. The fact is that both Ford and General Motors already are using black Box technology in around two-thirds of the models built, but they are referred to as "recorders". Drivers can expect the advancement of these "recorders" to be able to tell police officers and insurance companies about car accidents, how fast you were driving, where you had driven that day and much more.

Cars That Park for You

Yes, a car that actually will do the parking is already in production today. There is already one type of system where the driver keeps his foot on the brake while the car amazingly enough parallel parks it's self. Its future looks bright, as this type of application could be very useful in the future not just in parking but also use in other tight places like garages.

Let the Car do the Driving

It's no longer just a dream or something we have seen in the movies, with the advancement of GPS and robotic technology setting your car on Auto Pilot where the navigation system guides the car to its destination while the driver sits back and relaxes will become a reality sooner than many people could imagine. Experimentation and planning is underway with the use of magnets and GPS to make this dream become a reality.

Herman Jenkins Motors Inc.
Union City, Tn
731-885-2811

Prepairing Your Vehicle For A Roadtrip / GM Goodwrench Can Help

* Bring your vehicle to our GM dealership and have Goodwrench technician check your belts, hoses, brakes, lights, windshield washer fluid, wiper blades, engine oil and coolant
* Make sure your trunk has a jack, lug wrench and other tools you’ll need to change a tire
* Check tire pressure of all tires, including the spare
* Make sure you have a working flashlight with extra batteries, emergency reflectors, sunglasses and a first aid kit
* Take your driver's license, vehicle registration and auto and medical insurance cards
* Carry a spare set of vehicle keys
* Plan your route and leave a copy of your itinerary with a relative or neighbor
* Take any special medications and prescription information
* Take your doctor's phone number
* Take your eyeglass prescription
* Bring a cellular phone or sign that tells passersby to “Call Police” in case of trouble
* Have any repairs or vehicle maintenance performed before the trip - See your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for vehicle maintenance schedules.

Herman Jenkins Motors Inc.
Union City, TN
731-885-2811

Warm Weather Tips for your GM vehicle.

As temperatures increase, so do the demands made on your vehicle. So make sure your vehicle is up to summer's challenge.
What You Can Do

* Check tire tread depth for excessive and uneven wear.
* In extreme summer temperatures, you may have to change the grade of your engine oil. Check your owner's manual for the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle's engine.
* Check the cooling system – both hoses and radiator – for leaks. Check the coolant recovery reservoir under the hood when the engine is cold. Add the coolant recommended in your Owner's Manual, if required. Replace conventional coolant every two years or 60,000 miles (every five years/150,000 miles DEX-COOL®).*

What Goodwrench Can Do to Help

* Check the air conditioning system.
* After a winter of coughing and sneezing, combined with allergens, bacteria, mold and other microscopic interlopers, you might need to replace your cabin air filter and thoroughly clean or vacuum interior surfaces.
Read more about our spring cleaning tips
* Winter can take a bigger toll on your vehicle than you think. Come see us at Herman Jenkins Motors your GM dealer, for a pre-summer springtime check-up.
Read more about the benefits of a seasonal GM Multi-Point Vehicle Inspection

* Maintenance needs vary with different uses and driving conditions. See your Owner’s Manual for more information.

Customer Appreciation Sales Event

All used vehicles will be clearly tagged and marked down on SALE for quick disposal. Many vehicles are local trades, and have lots of remaining factory warranty. We have many good used cars, trucks, suv's to fit most any budget. Financing is available to qualified buyers. Also, every new vehicle in Herman Jenkins Motors Inc. Inventory will be sold at INVOICE. This is a great opportunity for you to upgrade to that vehicle you are looking for, just in time for summer vacation. To sell all our new and used vehicles visit our website: "www.HermanJenkins.com"