Latest News, Tips & More | Action Auto LLC.

Have you been out on the roads lately? You’ll probably notice that traffic is significantly worse, especially at nights and on the weekends. Not only are people out getting their holiday shopping taken care of, they’re also out enjoying the festivities of the season! It’s important to be especially careful when taking your Cortland used car out on the road this time of the year, and we have tips to help you do just that. Handle your used car like a pro despite the rush on the roads this holiday season!

Change your driving habits this holiday season! 

How should you alter your driving habits to  better handle congested roads and holiday traffic? Here are our top Action Auto tips!

Use defensive driving. This means taking proactive steps to prevent an accident in your Cortland used car, as opposed to just reacting when one is imminent. Use your turn signals to indicate your movements, follow the speed limit, and leave plenty of space in between your ride and other cars. You should also scan the road for possible problems, and keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes in front of you at all times!

Check traffic before you leave the house! Do you have a plan of action for your time on the road? Use traffic reports to plot out the most efficient and least frustrating route to your final destination, and be sure to come up with an alternate route as well just in case your primary way gets clogged up. You might also have HD Radio in your Cortland used car – this technology can give you real-time traffic updates to ensure you get where you need to go as efficiently as possible!

Stay focused when behind the wheel of your Cortland used car 

Do away with distractions! Your sole focus should be on your Cortland used car and the road around you. Put away your cell phone; if you HAVE to take calls, use the Bluetooth wireless streaming that some of our used cars in Cortland have to offer you. You should also refrain from eating, fiddling with the radio, grooming, and anything else that takes your attention off your drive time. This applies to passengers, too – don’t let them distract you from the task at hand!

Make sure your used car is in good enough shape to take on the road! Nothing is more frustrating than being in traffic with a car that won’t function. Have our techs check your battery, tires, and brakes, as well as your heater and air conditioning system. You’ll also want to schedule your routine oil change – traffic means more time out on the road, so you’ll need to give your car the tools it needs to work overtime. Call our Action Auto Service Center in Cortland and schedule your appointment today; get a multi-point inspection to identify any other issues or problems that might be coming down the line!

Ready to take on holiday traffic? Looking for a reliable used vehicle to do it in? Call us today at (607) 758-7506!

Travel is almost always a part of the holidays – whether you’re taking your car across town or across the country to celebrate this holiday season, you need to do it safely! Often you’ll find yourself with a car full of family, friends, and pets, so we’re here to talk more about how to keep them safe out on the roads. Check out our Action Auto safe driving tips for pets and family!

We’ve got Cortland safe driving tips for your tiny passengers and four-legged friends!

The first thing to remember is that yes, you’re heading for a fun and exciting destination. However, it’s important to be vigilant and use your defensive driving skills while you’re behind the wheel of your usedcar from Action Auto! The holidays mean more traffic out on the roads and possible winter weather, both of which can make it more dangerous to drive. Do away with distractions, make sure everyone is buckled up, and stay focused on the road at all time! Here are some more Cortland New York safe driving tips to see you through it!

• Make sure everyone in the cabin of your vehicle is wearing a seatbelt, and make sure any carseats in the back are properly installed AND the right fit for your child. This is a huge part of safe driving, as an improperly installed carseat can have devastating consequences. If you have doubts, take your vehicle down to your local fire station or police station to have them check things out for you.

Buckle up your friends, family, AND pets for maximum safe driving!

• Babyproof your car if you’re going to be taking smaller passengers along this holiday season! This means ensuring your child locks are on (so no curious passengers can open doors or windows without your permission), and that the backseat is clear of anything that could be considered dangerous (like small objects that can be choking hazards or anything sharp). 

• Another safe driving tip for holiday travels is to ensure your four-legged friends are comfortable. It’s best to crate your pets if you’re taking them in the car; this will make them feel more secure, and it’ll also keep them contained in the case of an accident. If nothing else, use a pet harness crafted for the car to keep them secure! You should also make sure they’re comfortable – provide them with blankets and toys to make them feel at home, and don’t forget to bring along water and snacks for them. Also, plan rest stops to let them stretch their legs and go to the bathroom, just like you would for humans!

Looking for a safe usedcar, usedtruck or usedSUV in Cortland? Come on down – we’re open six days a week at 3899 State Route 281!

Autumn means apple cider, leaves floating to the ground, Halloween decorations — and falling temperatures. You probably plan to get your family ready for cooler weather by taking that winter wardrobe out of storage, turning on the heater for the first time and making hearty stews for dinner instead of light summer salads. And, just like another member of your family, your car also needs a little cold-weather TLC. Here are a few things to think about as the mercury starts to dip.

Check Your Oil

As the temperatures change, you may want to change your oil and replace it with a different viscosity, which simply refers to how thick or heavy the oil is.

Your engine’s oil becomes thinner as the temperature rises, so in warmer climates, a thicker, higher-viscosity oil will help keep your engine properly lubricated. For the same reason, heavier oils aren’t as effective if you’re traveling through extremely cold, blustery conditions. Be sure to check your owner’s manual to see which oil viscosity is recommended for the weather conditions that you experience.

Keep Warm

Your car’s radiator is like a Thermos. It helps the engine stay at a proper temperature, regardless of how hot or cold it is outside. As a result, your car’s coolant or antifreeze deserves attention when temperatures start to fall.

If the system isn’t filled properly, your engine could freeze in the winter, which means the car won’t start. Additionally, antifreeze that’s old can lead to rust and corrosion, which could cause leaks. As a result, it’s important to flush your radiator and refill it with fresh antifreeze when recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

Stay Charged

Car batteries can die without much notice, and extreme temperatures can cause battery problems. Old batteries don’t hold a charge as well, which can make your car’s electrical system work harder. Check the battery’s positive and negative terminals to make sure that there is no rust or corrosion, and consider replacing your battery if it’s getting older. If you have an older battery and the temperatures are falling, getting your battery tested to ensure it’s in good working order and possibly replacing it could help keep you from becoming stranded.

Pop the Hood

No matter what the weather is doing, good maintenance is always a good idea — but, since extreme temperature changes can affect your car, it’s an especially good idea to make sure your car is in good working order before winter sets in. Pop the hood and make sure that all your car’s fluids look good and are filled to the proper level.

While you’re checking your fluids, it doesn’t hurt to inspect some other odds and ends under the hood that may fail in extreme conditions. Seasonal changes are a good time to look at your belts and hoses to make sure that the rubber is in good shape. You may want to replace them if you see any cracks or imperfections, especially if you’re planning a road trip.

Fill Your Tank

No matter the temperature, it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re not running on empty. But, there are a few extra reasons to keep a full tank of gas when the temperature drops. If you get stranded in the middle of a blizzard, your car’s engine could be your only heat source, and a full tank of gas also helps keep moisture from forming in the fuel lines, where it can then freeze. If you’re in a really chilly area, you can also add fuel de-icer to your tank to keep the gas from freezing.

Do a Walk-Around

Prepping your car for a chilly winter means more than just a checkup under the hood. Take a look at your windshield wipers and exterior lights and make sure they’re in good working order. Plus, make sure that the lenses of your exterior lights are clean, and replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Windshield wiper blades are constantly subjected to the elements, so it’s important to replace worn or dried-out wiper blades regularly to maintain good visibility, especially if a snowstorm is headed your way. And finally, it’s important that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid, too.

Keep an Eye on Your Tires

As the temperature rises and falls, so does the air pressure in your tires. As a result, it’s important that your tires are properly inflated. In cold temperatures, you can lose tire pressure at a rate of about one pound per 10 degrees of temperature. Low tire pressure can dangerously affect your car’s handling, lower your fuel economy and, under some circumstances, lead to a blown tire.

Check the pressure when the tires are cold, making sure it’s in the range suggested by the manufacturer in your car manual, and don’t forget to make sure that your spare also has enough air in it. Keeping your tires at the proper pressure ensures that they make good contact with the road surface, and it also maximizes your vehicle’s fuel economy.

While you’re checking out your tires, make sure that the treads and sidewalls are up to snuff. Uneven tread wear, cuts, scrapes or indentations in your tires are all signs that they may need to be replaced.

Dust the Snow Off

If a heavy winter storm hits, make sure you clean all the snow and ice off your car before heading out onto the roadways. Getting the wintry mix off your windows ensures that you’ll have good visibility on the road, but if you don’t clean the snow off your roof, hood and trunk, it could fly off and obstruct your view (or someone else’s).

Stay Weather-Wise Inside Your Car

While checking under the hood will help keep your car running, it’s a good idea to make sure that your car will keep you comfortable and prepared, no matter the weather conditions. A properly functioning heater and defroster are important in the winter to keep you warm and maintain good outward visibility.

Depending on the weather, you should also stock your car with some supplies to keep you prepared. A shovel, gloves, boots, an ice scraper and sand or kitty litter (for traction on slippery roads) are all wise additions if you’re trekking through ice and snow. Items like a flashlight, food, water, a blanket, jumper cables, windshield washer fluid and a basic tool kit could also come in handy, regardless of what the weather is like.

It’s difficult to get excited about making a service appointment but Action Auto Service Department can help. If you are in need of any kind of maintenance make an appointment online or visit our service department at. We are located at 3899 State Route 281 just off I-81 near Suny Cortland. If your vehicle needs a little more than just tire help, check out our vehicles at Action Auto Llc!

At Action Auto Llc. in Cortland, it is our mission to provide you with quality used cars. Since 1996 we have consistently made it our objective to treat each customer as we would a guest in our own home. This standard has allowed us the privilege to be repeatedly recognized by our customers and continued excellence in all areas of operation.

Whether you are pursuing the purchase of a Used Car or Used Truck, our vast inventory unites uncompromising quality. Take a detailed look at our selection online, and then feel free to schedule your test drive, request a quote, or e-mail the staff with any questions before your arrival to the dealership. When you’re ready, Action Auto Llc. Financial Services can help to give you quick credit approval, a trade-in value on your current vehicle or answer any financial questions you may have on the purchase of your next vehicle.

If your vehicle is in need of service, our trained technicians will take excellent care of your vehicle at our Service Center while you can relax in our customer lounge. So if you’re looking to find auto repair shop in Cortland, be sure to stop by!

All of these services and more are available at Action Auto Llc. serving Cortland, Ithaca, Dryden, Tully, Binghamton, Cicero and Syracuse, New York. If you’re looking for a used car dealer in the Cortland area, stop by our showroom and see what we have to offer!

Hours of Operation:

Monday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Tuesday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Wednesday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Thursday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Friday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Saturday 9:00 AM-3:00 PM

Sunday CLOSED

As the fall weather creeps in, local deer populations become more active than during the summer months. They are foraging, mating, and preparing for winter as well as trying to avoid hunters’ bullet.

All of this frantic activity can send a deer bounding out onto a road at any time. Drivers have much to be wary of out on the roads and the fall brings on the added hazard of avoiding a potentially calamitous collision with a deer. The time period between October and the end of the year is the time when deer are the most active and the potential for tragedy is the highest. November is an especially active period for them. It is important to always watch carefully for deer, especially around dusk. Also, avoid driving too fast so if you do see a deer, you have time to slow down and avoid it.

Deer are up and about starting just after sunset and all through the night. Make use of your high beams when you can, especially on winding country roads. Vehicle maintenance is always critical to your safety. Ensure that your brakes and lights are in good working order and check on the condition of your tires. Check your brake lights. You don’t need a rear end collision on top of trying to stop for a deer.

Never swerve away from a deer if it puts you in oncoming traffic. It will endanger vehicles traveling in the other lane and deer can change direction very quickly. Slow down and attempt to stop without excess maneuvering.

If you do happen to hit a deer, get to the side of the road if you can and activate your hazard lights. Call 911 and stay until emergency help arrives.

Also keep in mind that deer rarely travel alone. If there is one, there are most likely more nearby. Be wary and cautious. Slow down and be in control. Everyone’s safety depends on it.

Visit Action Auto in Cortland for reliable and safe vehicles to get you wherever you need to go. We have pre-owned vehicles that offer advanced technology and comfort.

The holidays are here and while we don’t see much snow here yet, we know a lot of drivers will be hitting the highways over the next few months to visit family and friends and spread holiday cheer. Are you heading out of town into climates that might see snowier weather? We have a little refresher course for you to ensure you’re ready… check out our Action Auto tips for driving in snow like a pro!

Prepare your car for driving in snow!

Cold weather can take a toll on your Action Auto car, so before you head out to the highway you should ensure it’s been properly prepared for driving in snow. This means paying our Action Auto Service Center a visit for car maintenance like:

• Tire rotation, balance, inflation, and if need be, replacement
• An oil change
• A fluids check – make sure the fluids under the hood can handle colder temps!
• New windshield wipers
• A headlight check and possible adjustment
• Brake service – you want full stopping power on your side in slippery snow!

After you’ve hit up our Cortland auto service center, you’re ready to pack up and take to the highway!

Action Auto in Cortland has tips for snowy winter driving!

So, what’s different about driving in snow? For starters, it’s more slippery. You’ll have less traction, which means less control over your car and less stopping power. It also may be darker (due to Daylight Saving Time) and harder to see, as snow is precipitation. We’ve got some tips – check them out!

• Use your headlights and your wipers when you’re driving in snow! Your wipers will keep the windshield of your new car clear, and your headlights will give you better visibility AND let other drivers see you better.
• Slow down! In order to have better control over your new car from Action Auto, drop your speed a notch. This is especially true when turning – you don’t want your back wheels to slide out, so slow your speed and take turns carefully. Slow and steady wins the race when it’s snowing!
• Leave more room to stop. You don’t want to slam on your brakes when driving in snow; it can cause you to skid and lose control. You’ll also need extra space to come to a safe stop, so pay attention to stoplights and stop signs and also refrain from driving too close to the car in front of you!
• If you feel yourself start to slide, DO NOT slam on your brakes! If you drive a manual car, shift into a lower gear to drop your speed. Otherwise, try to steer straight and remember not to jerk the wheel, as this can worsen your sliding out. You can gently tap your brakes if you really need to slow down!

Want more tips for your holiday drive time, or need to prep your car for highway travel? Come on in and see us – we’re located just off I-81 near Suny Cortland at 3899 State Route 281.

At Action Auto Llc. in Cortland, it is our mission to provide you with quality used cars. Since 1996 we have consistently made it our objective to treat each customer as we would a guest in our own home. This standard has allowed us the privilege to be repeatedly recognized by our customers and continued excellence in all areas of operation.

In a technological age, cell phone use is becoming more and more prevalent across the globe, especially with teens and young adults. The wonders and benefits of connectivity are truly amazing when you consider global implications, but do they outweigh the risks that come along with them? Texting while driving is an ever increasing danger and is amplified when considering teen drivers still learning the rules of the road. Many drivers look at texting and driving as a common trend that has little impact on your driving safety, but the risks are very real. So, what are the dangers of texting and driving? Find out some of the statistics at Action Auto, maybe they will change your mind.

Getting behind the wheel of a new vehicle that offers award-winning safety is great, but thats negated when you decide to text and drive. Driving while texting increases the probability of an accident by 23% and cell phone use in the car results in 1.6 million traffic accidents per year, leading to 500,000 injuries and more than 6,000 deaths. Texting and driving is most prevalent among teen drivers, 34% of whom admit to texting while driving and 13% of 18-20 year old drivers involved in accidents admit that they were on their phone when the crash occurred.

All of the LOLs or TTYLs that you text on a daily basis may seem like very little, but while driving they exponentially increase the risk of a crash. Sending or receiving a text only takes about 5 seconds, which may not seem like much, but when traveling at speeds of 65 mph, it is the equivalent of driving the length of a football field blindfolded. That is a pretty frightening statistic when you consider everything that could occur in that distance. Texting while driving also slows your reaction time in addition to taking your eyes off of the road. Each time you text and drive it slows your reaction time to that of a 70 year old adult.

Stay safe while you are in the car and stop texting while driving. Now, that we have answered the question, “What are the dangers of texting and driving?” maybe you understand the very real risks that are involved. Many car models make staying connected while driving much safer with integrated hands-free technology, but it does not replace safe driving habits. Stop in at Action Auto Llc in Cortland to test drive a new vehicle today!

At Action Auto Llc. in Cortland, it is our mission to provide you with quality used cars. Since 1996 we have consistently made it our objective to treat each customer as we would a guest in our own home. This standard has allowed us the privilege to be repeatedly recognized by our customers and continued excellence in all areas of operation.

Whether you are pursuing the purchase of a Used Car or Used Truck, our vast inventory unites uncompromising quality. Take a detailed look at our selection online, and then feel free to schedule your test drive, request a quote, or e-mail the staff with any questions before your arrival to the dealership. When you’re ready, Action Auto Llc. Financial Services can help to give you quick credit approval, a trade-in value on your current vehicle or answer any financial questions you may have on the purchase of your next vehicle.

If your vehicle is in need of service, our trained technicians will take excellent care of your vehicle at our Service Center while you can relax in our customer lounge. So if you’re looking to find auto repair shop in Cortland, be sure to stop by!

All of these services and more are available at Action Auto Llc. serving Cortland, Ithaca, Dryden, Tully, Binghamton, Cicero and Syracuse, New York. If you’re looking for a used car dealer in the Cortland area, stop by our showroom and see what we have to offer!

Hours of Operation:

Monday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Tuesday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Wednesday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Thursday 9:00 AM-7:00 PM

Friday 9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Saturday 9:00 AM-3:00 PM

Sunday CLOSED