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With beautiful landscapes and plenty of activities that bring together locals and visitors of all ages, the fall season is a fantastic time to visit the city of Columbus, OH. Whether you want to take part in some spooky Halloween events or are searching for the best spots to check out the spectacular autumn colors that characterize this time of the year, here are three fantastic fall activities you can enjoy while in the area. 1. Go Apple Picking at The Orchard and Company Apple picking is one of the most popular autumn activities in the entire United States and a great way to spend a day with friends or family. Located just 20 miles northwest of the city center, The Orchard and Company is a large complex that can be reached in about 25 minutes by car and offers apple-picking patches, festivals, and interactive activities throughout the season. more Heading to The Orchard and Company on a sunny day is always a great plan, but the fall season is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit this place. Besides the large apple fields, this place offers wagon rides, a corn pit, hay barns, and a shop where you can buy some delicious homemade bakery items. 2. Carve Some Jack-o-Lanterns at Lehner´s Pumpkin Farm Located near the small town of Delaware and about 35 miles north of the Columbus city center, Lehner´s Pumpkin Farm is another great spot to experience the fall spirit and spend a day away from the city with your friends and family. Offering a 15-acre u-pick patch with all sizes of pumpkins, grounds, and squash, this place is the perfect spot to collect what you need for a delicious pumpkin pie or a spooky jack-o-lantern. Although the u-pick patch is the most popular attraction at this farm, the place also offers a selection of pre-picked and washed pumpkins. Before you visit this place, make sure to check out their website and learn more about the different activities and special events organized here. 3. Take a Spooky Tour Around Thurber House The former house of cartoonist James Thurber, Thurber House, is a great destination to get spooked in a series of guided tours led by local volunteers who will tell you all about the legends and strange tales about the property. The house where this family-friendly event is located about one mile east of Capitol Square in the Columbus downtown area. These are just a few of the many different fall-themed activities available in the greater Columbus, OH area for you and your loved ones to enjoy this season! Start making plans to visit one – or all! – of these terrific options and get ready for some wonderful memories! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Regular car maintenance is essential to ensure that the best used cars stay in good running order and on the road for longer. In the following article, Drive Direct offers helpful maintenance tips for used car owners. 1. Regularly Maintain and Repair Your Car Regular maintenance is vital to keep your car in good running condition. Have the oil and filter changed at least every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Oil lubricates the parts and reduces friction that causes wear. Regular oil changes will ensure that your engine runs smoothly, and your car lasts longer. more Get repairs done as soon as you experience any car trouble. Minor issues will be detected early on and repaired effectively before more damage occurs, which could lead to expensive repairs and even replacements. If you hear strange noises, smell unpleasant odors, or see smoke, act fast and take your car to a qualified technician for repairs. 2. Keep an Eye on the Fluid Levels The fluids in your car are essential for keeping the parts well-lubricated and cool. Check the engine oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and power steering fluid levels at least once a month to ensure that they are at the correct levels. Also, check the color of the fluid. Ask your technician to replace the fluid if it looks dirty or cloudy. 3. Check Under Your Car for Leaks Check under your car for puddles on the ground. You can also look when you pull out of a parking space if there are wet spots where you were parked. Puddles under your car are an indication that there is a fluid leak. Get this sorted out as soon as possible to avoid further damage. 4. Inspect and Clean the Battery Inspect that the battery connections are tight and that the terminals are free of corrosion. If you spot corrosion around the terminals, use a solution of baking soda and water and clean the build-up off with a brush. Check that the case is not swollen or cracked. If the battery case is damaged, it's best to replace the battery. If you don't know the age of the battery, ask your technician to perform a battery test to determine if you need to replace it. 5. Check, Inflate, and Rotate Your Tires at Regular Intervals To reduce wear, keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure levels. The PSI for your tires is on the inside of your driver's door. Inspect the tires for bubbles and cracks and check the tread depth at least once a month. If you rotate the tires every time you take your car for an oil change, your tires will wear evenly and last longer, saving you money. Good upkeep will ensure that your vehicle lasts longer, is fuel-efficient, and is safe on the road. Best of all, regular maintenance will save you thousands of dollars on unexpected and expensive repairs. Visit Drive Direct today for a wide selection of top-quality pre-owned vehicles and exceptional customer care. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

The beautiful state parks a short distance from Columbus, OH, are excellent spots to get cozy around campfires, sleep under the stars, and enjoy plenty of outdoor fun. We’ve gathered together a few of our favorite sites to visit for some seriously good times out in nature – read on for more details! 1. Alum Creek State Park Campground Just a short 19 miles away at 3305 South Old State Road in Delaware, Alum Creek State Park stretches out over 4,630 acres and boasts one of the best state park campgrounds in Ohio. Here you can park your RV or pitch your tent at one of 297 campsites in a sunny spot, under a canopy of trees in the woods, or on the shores of the beautiful 3,387-acre Alum Creek Reservoir. The campsites have water and electricity and are close to the restrooms. more The campground also has a well-stocked camp store and a boat ramp. Explore the park on the hiking, mountain biking, and horseback trails that wind through lush maple and beech forests, wet your hook for bass, saugeye, bluegill, walleye, and crappie, and play a challenging game of disc golf on the 18-hole course. You can paddle and boat or relax and catch some sun on the 3,000-foot swimming beach, the largest inland beach in the state. 2. A.W. Marion State Park Campground The small and serene 310-acre A.W. Marion State Park is 30.8 miles from Columbus at 7317 Warner Huffer Road in Circleville. The lovely pet-friendly campground has electric and non-electric campsites, a camp store, ball courts, and restrooms with flush toilets. The 145-acre Hargus Lake is excellent for boating and paddling and is stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and channel catfish. More than 12 miles of multi-use trails wind through the rolling woodlands and along the lake shore. 3. Delaware State Park Campground Delaware State Park is a 31.3-mile drive away at 5202 US Highway 23 N in Delaware and offers 1,686 acres of outdoor excitement. The scenic wooded campground has 211 campsites spread out over rolling green lawns under the trees with electricity and water, near restrooms with showers and a laundry facility. You can play basketball, volleyball, tetherball, and disc golf on the nine and 27-hole courses, and your pup can stretch his legs at the fenced-in dog park. There are miles of multi-use trails that cut through the dense forests, wetlands, and meadows and run along the shores of the 1,300-acre reservoir. Rent a boat or kayak from the fully-equipped marina, hook largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, and muskie, and laze the day away on the 800-foot swimming beach. Book the best campground six months in advance on the Ohio State Park Reservations website or call (866) 644-6727. Don’t wait – the good spots fill up fast! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Known for their German engineering and stylish designs, Volkswagens are a popular choice among car buyers. However, before you rush out to buy one, you may want to consider getting a used Volkswagen instead. Below, we’ve listed four reasons why: 1. Pre-Owned Volkswagens Have a Lot of the Same Features as New Ones There are many pre-owned Volkswagens on the market that offer the same features as new ones, depending on the year of manufacture. For example, newer models come with advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure assist. You can also find features like heated seats and a sunroof in some pre-owned Volkswagens. more 2. You Can Get Financing Many people think that the best way to finance a car is through a bank or credit union. However, your local Volkswagen dealer can also provide unbeatable finance packages for a pre-owned vehicle. There are many advantages when financing your car through the dealer, such as low-interest rates and flexible payment plans. The dealer will also work with you to find the best financing option for your needs and budget, whereas a bank may not be as flexible. 3. You Know the Vehicle Is Inspected by a Certified Technician When you buy a pre-owned Volkswagen from your local dealer, you can rest assured that the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected by a certified technician. The technicians are highly trained and experienced in inspecting Volkswagen vehicles, and they know exactly what to look for in order to ensure that the vehicle is in top condition. In addition, the dealer has access to all of the latest diagnostic tools and equipment. This means you can be confident that the inspection is being conducted properly. 4. You Have a Wide Variety of Models to Choose From When you buy from a dealer, you have a wide range of models to choose from. Whether you're looking for a sedan, SUV, or convertible, chances are good that your local dealer has what you're looking for. And if they don't have the exact model that you want, they may be able to get it for you. In addition, you also have the benefit of a warranty when you buy from a dealer. Most dealers offer some kind of warranty on their pre-owned vehicles, which means if something goes wrong, you're covered to some extent. If you're still on the fence about purchasing a Volkswagen, we hope the points discussed above solidify your decision. When you're ready to make a purchase, visit us at Drive Direct in Columbus, OH, and let us help you take home a vehicle you love. We have a variety of pre-owned Volkswagens, and our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect one for your needs and lifestyle. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

There's no better way to savor the last days of summer than with a stop by one of the many fantastic ice cream places that call Columbus, OH home. We've narrowed down dozens of options to our top three choices, so read on to discover some delightful spots! 1. Jeni's Jeni's sources their ingredients from local farms, community providers, and grass-fed cows to create a wide collection of scoop flavors that rise above the rest. You can enjoy your cup or cone at eight storefronts located around Columbus, or order online to enjoy from the comfort of your home. Additionally, diners avoiding dairy can safely order the Orange Freeze, the Caramel Pecan Sticky Buns, the Cold Brew with Coconut, the Texas Sheet Cake, and the Lemon Bar. more Enjoy a breakfast-inspired flavor such as the Raspberry Rose Jelly Donut, the Skillet Cinnamon Roll, or the Sweet Cream Biscuits & Jam any time of the day. If you're a fan of fruit, we suggest the Brambleberry Crisp, the Wildberry Lavender, or the Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Customers in the mood for both a frozen treat and cake are guaranteed to love the Gooey Butter Cake, the Blackout Chocolate Cake, the Buttercream Birthday Cake, and the Wedding Cake. 2. Handel's Handel's is the place to go for extensive variety, nostalgic favorites, and an unbeatable freshness from homemade scoops. Their classics are beloved for a reason, and we enjoy getting a Handel Pop covered in chocolate and a Handel's Banana Split covered in maraschino cherries every time we visit. Treat yourself to a Handel's Hurricane made from their world-famous vanilla soft serve, or go with a smoothie made with fresh fruit and sorbet for a healthier choice. All of Handel's flavors are delicious by themselves in a cup, but you can also take your scoop to the next level with the addition of a waffle bowl, whipped cream, and various toppings. Chocolate lovers should try the Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, while vanilla fans are sure to love the Praline Pecan with a butterscotch ripple. For something a little more unique, we highly suggest the Caramel Corn with Spanish peanuts and the banana-flavored Monkey Business. 3. Graeter's Graeter's has been well-loved for their rich and indulgent scoops, sundaes, and specialty frozen cakes since 1870. Fans swear by their famous chip flavors, and we especially enjoy the Coconut Chocolate Chip, the Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, and the Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip. When it comes to classic flavors, it's hard to go wrong with the Brown Butter Bourbon, the Maple Cinnamon Crunch, the Oregon Strawberry, or the Chunky Chunky Hippo! Cakes are made from a freshly baked 8'' round cake sliced and filled with more than a pound of your pick of flavor such as the Cookies & Cream Supreme with mini sandwich cookies and the Black Raspberry Chocolate Bliss with marshmallows. If you're more of a pie person, savor the Buckeye Blitz Pie topped with bittersweet chocolate or the Turtle Pecan Pie with butterscotch and almost two pounds of frozen goodness in the center. A delicious scoop (or two!) is waiting at any of these places, and we're positive that you'll love whatever flavor you pick! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Chrysler, one of America's premier auto manufacturers, has been releasing high-quality, dependable vehicles since 1925. Since then, many great models have come and gone, but there is still an abundant amount of quality in used Chrysler vehicles. Chryslers are built to last, making them excellent secondhand automobiles. Check out some of the best secondhand Chryslers that we’ve listed out below. 1. 2017 Chrysler 300 Limited The 2017 Chrysler 300 Limited is a full-sized luxury car. It has a powerful 3.6L V6 engine under the hood, capable of 292 horsepower. The full-sized body design gives itself to the roomy cabin, and the luxury classification offers itself to the premium materials employed in the interior. There is also an 8.4-inch display, capable of Bluetooth connectivity. The full body also gives the 300 Limited a safety edge over smaller sedans. more 2. 2013 Chrysler Town & Country Touring The 2013 Town & Country Touring is a minivan, equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine. This minivan is all things safety, spaciousness, and capability. With electronic stability control systems, an abundance of airbags, and child seat anchoring systems, the 2013 Town & Country makes for the perfect family vehicle. There are seven seats: two front seats, two captain's seats, and three third-row seats. Behind the third row, there are 33 cubic feet of cargo space and a spacious 143.8 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down. The 2013 Town & Country is also fitted with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, capable of Bluetooth connectivity. 3. 2021 Chrysler Voyager LXI The Chrysler Voyager is also a minivan. It's equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine, giving it a powerful, responsive acceleration. There are seven seats: two in the front, two in the second row, and three in the third row. Similar to the 2013 Town & Country, the Voyager uses its minivan body design to deliver a spacious cabin. The max cargo volume is 140.5 cubic feet. The 2013 Voyager also received outstanding ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Each row has its own curtain airbags, in addition to the traditional airbag systems. It is also equipped with a backup camera, helping you to stay aware of everything happening around you. Chrysler's distant past and shining present aren't all that much different from each other. From the start, Chrysler has delivered exceptional vehicles that withstand the tides of time, making them the brand to look to for both new and used automobiles. Finding a trusted dealer doesn't need to be a struggle: call Drive Direct today to speak to a trusted Chrysler expert that excels in professionalism, experience, and customer service. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Summer is a great time to get out and about and explore your local area. Next time the weather is good and you fancy an adventure, try one of these summer activities near Columbus, OH. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium There's so much to do at Columbus Zoo that you'll struggle to fit it all in. Visit nearly 600 species of animals from all over the world, including lions, bears, and elephants. If you want to learn more about your favorites then be sure not to miss the Keeper Talks, which are full of fascinating facts and a chance to witness feeding time! more Kids will have a blast exploring the many outdoor playgrounds and having a go on the carnival rides, so bring along the whole family! Grab some lunch at the Congo River Market Food Court, or bring your own food and use one of the many picnic areas available. There's plenty of parking at just $10 for the day, and don't forget to stop by and visit the gift shop on your way out so you can grab a souvenir! Olentangy Caverns These naturally formed limestone caves have been used through the ages by many cultures and tribes – it was even a robber's hideout in 1834! Discover the exciting history and amazing natural formations on a self-guided tour. Make it into a day trip and try your hand at mini golf, gem mining, and the treasure hunt maze. There's even a petting zoo where you can meet some furry friends! Activities can be paid for separately, or you can grab an all-access pass if you're going to stay all day. Remember to wear sturdy shoes to go inside the caves and enjoy the trails in the surrounding woodland – if you have any energy left after your underground adventuring! Zoombezi Bay Cool off on a hot day at this exciting water park. There's something here for everyone, from speedy drop slides for the thrill seekers to a wave pool for a bit of family fun. Tiny Tides is a heated-water playground, especially for young children, and Croctail Creek is an adults-only area with a swim-up bar and a heated lazy river. Can't fit everything into your day? Then consider grabbing a season ticket and come back as often as you’d like! There's plenty of parking, or you can take the bus and get money off your ticket. There are plenty of options for food and snacks, and you can rent a locker for your valuables, making it easier to enjoy the water without worrying about your things! Whether history is your thing, you're an animal lover, or you enjoy cooling off in the water on a hot day, there's summer fun for everyone not too far away! Start making your plans to visit each of these entertaining attractions today! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Whether you're looking for a commuter car to get you back and forth to work in the city, or for a pickup that can carry and tow the payloads you need across rugged country roads, odds are there's a used Honda out there that fits the bill! Sometimes though, it can be tough to know where to start looking. Here's a quick list of 5 of the best pre-owned Hondas to check out while on the hunt for a used car! 1. Honda Civic One of America's favorite sedans for a long-time running, the Honda Civic is a good bet if you're looking for a reliable and fun used car to get around in. The most recent run of models, starting in 2016, even gives drivers the flexibility to choose from the 3 available body styles (coupe, 4-door sedan, and hatchback) meaning there's a Civic out there for everyone. Impressive fuel economy is the cherry on top if you end up going for a pre-owned Honda Civic! more 2. Honda Accord If you're looking for something that's more spacious than the Civic, consider looking into the Honda Accord. This midsize sedan offers all the dependability and performance of the Civic, but with a little more room for your passengers and cargo in the trunk. It may be a little larger, but it doesn't fall behind the Civic in terms of its agility in handling or its fuel economy, either. When shopping the most recent era of Accords you can find hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, too! 3. Honda CR-V A leader in its class of compact SUVs, the CR-V is a great vehicle for anyone looking for an SUV that’s practical, efficient, and that comes with Honda's signature reliability. Honda CR-Vs have done exceptionally well in terms of safety ratings, and newer models include all-wheel drive, too, so you can feel safe taking your family and friends out for an adventure on the roads no matter the weather! 4. Honda Ridgeline Honda's unibody, all-wheel-drive pickup truck is a great choice for any driver looking for a used vehicle that combines reliability with rugged performance. The Ridgeline makes for a comfortable ride, thanks to the model's fully independent suspension, and features both a truck bed and a trunk within the bed, so there's always plenty of room for storage! In addition, the Ridgeline's V6 engine guarantees this truck will perform admirably wherever you go. 5. Honda Fit It is genuinely shocking how spacious and capable the Honda Fit is for a car in its segment! Drivers love the clever storage features that allow the Fit to shine above its competitors in terms of how much gear you can squeeze into a subcompact car like this. This also ensures that your passengers will be comfortable on longer drives, too! For a reliable, fuel-efficient car that gets you (and your gear) wherever you need to go, look no further than a Fit. These are a few of our favorite pre-owned Hondas, but there are plenty of other models to explore, and a lot more to learn about the models listed above, as well! Come visit us at Drive Direct in Columbus, OH and check out our wide variety of quality used cars today! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Dodge is known for its lineup of powerful and boldly styled vehicles. From classic muscle cars to practical family haulers, this famous automaker has just what you're looking for. Here are just a few used Dodge models for you to consider! 1. Dodge Challenger SXT With its 305-horsepower V6 engine and rear-wheel drive layout, this pony car delivers plenty of thrills. A quick 8-speed automatic transmission smoothly transmits power to the drive wheels and downshifts at the right time, so you can always get moving when you need to. The Challenger's sporty chassis features short and long-arm front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, which results in excellent handling through the corners. more Inside the car's snazzy interior, you'll find bolstered front seats that provide extra support during heavy cornering and surprisingly roomy rear seating. 2. Dodge Durango GT The Durango easily sets itself apart from other mid-sized SUVs thanks to its aggressive appearance and gutsy 3.6L V6 motor. Large 20-inch aluminum wheels add a whole lot of style, as do the front fog lamps and LED taillights. When the roads get slippery, this model's dependable all-wheel drive system delivers the appropriate amount of torque in order to maintain optimal traction. Up to seven passengers can be seated comfortably in the Durango's three-row passenger cabin and there's a generous amount of storage for personal belongings. The Durango GT has a bevy of creature comforts, including a driver's seat memory system, premium leather upholstery with suede inserts, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. 3. Dodge Grand Caravan GT The long-running Grand Caravan has earned a reputation as one of the best values in the minivan segment. Its passenger volume is impressive with over 150 cubic feet of space and its Stow N' Go folding seat system quickly transforms the vehicle into a capable cargo hauler. The GT trim offers Dodge's handy Uconnect infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery for added comfort during longer trips, and a premium 9-speaker audio system. The Grand Caravan GT is powered by a reliable V6 engine that produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque, enabling it to tow up to 3,600 pounds. 4. Dodge Dart SE At an EPA-rated 36 MPG highway, the Dodge Dart is a very economical compact sedan. It's also surprisingly sporty and fun to drive thanks to its nimble chassis and lightweight at just over 3,100 pounds. The SE model is equipped with a punchy powertrain that comprises a 160-horsepower 2.0L inline-4 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Its interior features an adjustable steering column, sport cloth seats, and a full-cloth headliner. Boasting exciting performance and excellent versatility, Dodge's automobiles are sure to impress! Visit Direct Drive today where you'll find these vehicles and much more! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

If you're looking for a top-quality pre-owned truck, look no further! Whether it's a used Ford F-150, a used Chevy Silverado, or a used Ram 1500, our dealership has got you covered. With all this selection, though, it can be difficult to know which pre-owned truck is the right fit for you and your driving needs. We've put together a quick list of some of our favorite used trucks on the market right now to help you make the right call and get you into your dream truck! 1. Ford F-150: America's Best-Selling Truck One of the most trusted and well-known pre-owned models on the market is the Ford F-150. It's no wonder it has remained the best-selling truck in the United States for 4 decades! Known for its dependability and toughness, the Ford F-150 consistently ranks highly for its reliability, quality, and overall driving experience. Whether you're hauling gear on the job or towing the camper for a weekend camping trip with the family, a pre-owned F-150 has got you covered. more 2. Chevy Silverado 1500: A Modern, Dependable Workhorse With its fresh, modern look and powerful, responsive V8 engine, a used Chevrolet Silverado is a solid choice for drivers looking for a dependable, no-frills workhorse. The Silverado's simple (and effective) V8 engine delivers all the power of its competitors with fewer complicated components, which means there's less that might eventually need repairing under the hood (and cheaper costs if any repairs are needed). 3. Ram 1500: Heir to the Throne In the past decade, the Ram 1500 has regularly challenged the Ford F-150 as the most popular used truck on the roads in the United States, with its considerably improved reliability, and the most refined ride quality among its competitors. The Ram's interior is comfortable, sleek, and loaded with all the tech and features you need to get you where you're going safely and enjoyably. 4. Honda Ridgeline: Sleek Design and Smooth Driving While it may not look as rough and tumble as its American-produced competitors, the Honda Ridgeline has proven to be a reliable, sturdy truck since it first hit the market in 2006. The Ridgeline offers a sleek, aerodynamic profile and a ride that feels more like driving a car than a mid-size truck, as well as some of the best fuel efficiency ratings in its class. More a dependable, efficient, and practical pre-owned truck: you can't go wrong with a Ridgeline. 5. Toyota Tacoma: The Truck That Just Won't Quit With their trucks as with their cars, Toyota has a reputation for making vehicles that just keep on going. With proper maintenance and upkeep, the average Toyota Tacoma driver will get at least 250,000 miles on their truck. And the Tacoma doesn't sacrifice on power and towing capability in the process, either. If you want a reliable truck with few problems and great resale value, check out the Toyota Tacoma. Looking to get your hands on one of these reliable pre-owned trucks? Come on down to Drive Direct and check out our wide variety of quality pre-owned vehicles today! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Buying a used vehicle is a great way to get more value for your money. Out of all your options for a used vehicle that you'll find at our dealership, a used Jeep is one of the best options when you want rugged capability and a unique personality for your vehicle! Check out some of the leading models of Jeep that you can drive home in today when you visit our dealership. 1. Wrangler With a can-do attitude and 4x4 capability to match, the Wrangler is one of the most iconic vehicles on the road. The high-strength design and a number of driver assistance features included in newer models help to keep you safe when you're out adventuring in this vehicle. Available removable doors and rooftops let you ride with the unbeatable feeling of open-air freedom. more 2. Cherokee This road-trip-ready SUV has everything you and your passengers need on the road ahead. An ample cargo area gives you room to load up anything you need to bring with you to your next destination. There's comfort for all on board with first-class amenities included, like in the newer models that include an air filter that minimizes airborne particles, so you have fresh air. 3. Grand Cherokee Even more luxury and excellence can be yours when you upgrade to the Grand Cherokee. Style, comfort, and convenience come together to make this SUV a total package. The Uconnect 4C system included in later models gives you a high-tech interface that makes it easy to navigate all the features you have at your fingertips. 4. Compass Comfort and versatility will be yours when you choose the Compass as your next SUV. You'll have access to a spacious cabin that gives everyone on board room to stretch out and relax for the ride ahead. That cabin is also easy to change up and rearrange when you need to make room for an extra-large-sized load of cargo or to bring more friends along! 5. Gladiator When Jeep makes a pickup truck, the result is the unrivaled capability of the Gladiator. A durable and spacious truck bed gives you room to load up anything that you're hauling with you to your next destination. High levels of articulation make it easy to overcome any tough obstacles you have lying in your path. 6. Renegade When you want an SUV that isn't afraid of doing things a little differently, the Renegade makes a great choice. The distinctive style of this vehicle manages to capture both modern SUV styling and the one-of-a-kind personality of a Jeep. Looks aren't the only way this vehicle carries on the Jeep legacy: it also sports the powerful 4x4 capability you know this family of vehicles for. Interested in learning more about these and other options you have when you're shopping for a used vehicle with us? Come meet our team at Drive Direct and we'll tell you all about the options we have for you! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

Buying a used car can be a great way to go easy on your budget and still get an excellent vehicle! Today our team at Drive Direct goes over some things you can keep in mind when it comes to used cars and important car safety features. 1. Airbags Airbags, along with seatbelts, are one of the most crucial safety features to keep an eye out for. At this point, it would be hard to find a used car without airbags, but just because a used car has airbags doesn't mean those airbags will always be top quality. more It's important to check that the airbags included in the car are not recalled. You can also check for additional safety features, such as airbags that can turn off when a child is placed in the front seat. 2. Anti-Lock Brakes When you're looking for a safe used car, anti-lock brakes can offer additional protection, especially on slippery terrain. This feature is also known as an ABS system, and it uses sensors to pulse the braking system during hard braking. The pulsing helps prevent your wheel from locking and spinning out, so you can stay in control even when you have to slam the brakes. Cars that offer this feature include the 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali and the 2015 Cadillac Escalade Platinum, among many others. 3. Sensors for Stability Control Electronic stability control employs sensors that help prevent skidding and sliding. The good news is that all cars built after 2012 should have this feature automatically included. The sensors detect steering angle and rotation, wheel speed, and sideways motion. When the car veers away from the driver's intended path, this system can carefully brake one or more wheels to help re-direct and improve stability. 4. Adaptive Headlights Any headlight is useful in illuminating the road. They can drastically improve safety at night and during overcast or rainy weather – adaptive headlights take things a step further. Traditional headlights are in a fixed position and can illuminate directly in front of you. On the other hand, adaptive headlights are able to use sensors to swivel based on your steering angle, so you're getting the best illumination possible. A range of cars offers this feature, such as the 2016 BMW M4 and the 2016 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring. 5. Traction Control Traction control is another useful safety feature that can maximize your car's traction. When you accelerate, this feature limits how much the wheels can spin. It's especially helpful in slippery or wet conditions and is often paired with antilock brake systems. The brake system can put on the brakes when traction control senses that wheels are spinning too quickly. Then power can be routed to the opposite wheel, which can help prevent your car from skidding. We know how important it is to find a car that's the right fit for you and your family. We also know how crucial it is to feel safe and confident about your investment. Our team would be happy to walk you through our cars' various safety features. Reach out to us at Drive Direct today to find the right car for your needs! Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License