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Reliability, variety, a great price, and low repair costs are four factors you'll need to consider when choosing which used car to buy. Fortunately, you won't have to search for long if you're looking for a high-quality but affordable vehicle. When you start looking for a used Hyundai, you’ll be amazed at the diverse and reliable choices you'll find available. 1. Great Reliability For used cars, one of the most important qualities is reliability. While you've got a warranty and the guarantee of all-new parts when you buy a new vehicle, you might worry that your used car will need repair or replacements soon. However, you don't have to be concerned when buying a Hyundai because they are known to be one of the most reliable car brands out there. more Hyundai cars have a reputation as dependable vehicles and consistently rank well when tested against other brands. For this reason, they’re a safe option for the whole family, and you can be sure that you won't be overpaying on maintenance and repairs. 2. A Car for Every Family Not everybody has the same needs when shopping for a vehicle. Some people may need a car suitable for countryside roads and big families while others will be happy with a smaller car that can easily navigate city streets. No matter what you're looking for, the Hyundai brand is likely to have a solution for you. The Tucson model is an SUV, so it could be suitable for bigger families or people who need to occasionally drive off-road. If you don't have a lot of space or are looking for a car that's easy to handle, you might enjoy a Hyundai Accent. This model offers fuel economy, a roomy interior considering it's a subcompact car, and some nice features that make your driving experience pleasant. 3. A Great Price for Everyone Even when you buy your Hyundai new, you can purchase it at an excellent price. But if you're willing to buy a used car, you will get excellent value for your money. Depending on the model you choose, you might pay $5,000-12,000 for your vehicle, which is much less than the US average of $38,000 for a new car. By choosing a used model, you’ll skip the depreciation cost, allowing you to enjoy an excellent vehicle at a very reasonable price. 4. Low Ongoing Costs Another reason why buying a Hyundai is a great choice is the low repair costs associated with the brand. As mentioned, your car will be very reliable, but when you do need to take it to the dealership for maintenance or repairs, your appointment won't break the bank. Every year, Hyundais rank amongst the cheapest cars to repair in the CarMD survey. When looking for a reliable and reasonably priced used car, you can't go wrong with a Hyundai. With several different models available and low maintenance costs, you'll love what this brand has to offer. To find out more about what models we currently have in stock, get in touch with us at Drive Direct in Columbus, OH. Our customer service specialists will be happy to discuss your options!

You won't find a more varied and eclectic mix of museums to visit than in Columbus, OH. There’s no shortage of themes to explore, and something for everyone no matter your interest or curiosity! Check out the top facilities in the area to spend an entire day with your family. Center of Science and Industry More commonly known as COSI, this museum has a rich history dating back to its opening to the public in 1964. Standout exhibits include Big Science Park, and the American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery (very popular with kids!) There is also a mix of classic and virtual exhibits, a giant screen theatre, a planetarium, and a very unique Atomic Café to stop for lunch where it's encouraged to play with your food! more National Veterans Memorial and Museum The National Veterans Memorial's purpose is to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who serve the country; it also serves to connect, inspire, and educate all visitors. One of the newest facilities in the area, a walk through the landscaped Memorial Grove is an absolute must, with its beautiful elm trees and rooftop sanctuary. Various exhibits provide first-hand viewpoints from the front lines of combat war veterans through letters and photos. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens This 88-acre complex is an absolute treat for visitors as the greenhouses and gardens take you on a journey across so many different landscapes from the desert to the rainforest. There are more than 400 species of plants in the gardens, including a spectacular Palm House, which is a popular location for local weddings. Perfect for the entire family, there’s also a two-acre adventure course for children to explore and appreciate Ohio's landscape. Columbus Museum of Art The Columbus Museum of Art specializes in sculptures, paintings, photography, and glasswork from American and European artists across the 19th and 20th centuries. There are plenty of community events held year-round in the atrium such as festivals, performances, and lectures. A museum store that has many fun and functional gifts to purchase will complete your experience here, and admission is free on Sundays! Orton Geological Museum The Orton Geological Museum is a hidden gem located on the Ohio State University campus. It’s a research facility that specializes in geological preservation, housing more than 54,000 specimens. You can explore rocks, minerals, and fossils from around the world – and even from outer space! Dinosaur enthusiasts will love it here with the newest display of a 24-foot-long early Jurassic dinosaur fossil – and best of all – admission is free. Ohio History Center The Ohio History Center is all about the history of Ohio itself, spanning from sports to the changing geological state landscape. Interactive exhibits pull you into the inventions and innovations over the years, and the role that pop culture has played at different periods. Ohio Village is located in the same complex and is a living history museum that takes you back to village life in Ohio in the late 1800s. Jack Nicklaus Museum Golf enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy visiting here, located in the heart of The Ohio State University sports complex. Columbus native Jack Nicklaus's career achievements are showcased, with more than 2,000 pieces in the vast collection in this 12,000 square-foot historical facility.   Try something different to shake up your routine and visit one or more of these fantastic sources of knowledge!

Modern cars and trucks are built to last many years and many miles, so a pre-owned car can have a lot of life and performance left in it! Some brands fare better than others in the used car arena, however. A used Toyota is a particularly smart choice because it's one of the most reliable used cars out there. Here are some great reasons why. 1. Longevity and Reliability The Toyota Camry has always been one of the best-selling cars in the country. The first-generation Camry came out in 1983 – some of the earliest Camrys are still on the road today! The Camry is now up to its eighth generation and will most likely continue. Year after year, the Camry remains a trustworthy choice. more 2. Safety Record Safety is a high priority for Toyota. The Camry is considered one of the safest cars on the road today. As technology continues to improve, the Camry does too. Many safety features that cost more on other models are standard on Camrys. Depending on the year, options such as forward-collision warning, lane assist, and side-curtain airbags are available on the Camry. 3. Lots of Choices Over the years, the Camry introduced new features such as higher horse-power engines, all-wheel drive, and roomier cabins. Many different trims and sporty body styles also give buyers lots of options. With all the different Camrys out there, it's easy to find one that fits you. 4. Inexpensive There are so many Camrys still on the road today because they are an economical choice. You can usually pick up a well-maintained Camry for under $5,000. That's an incredible price when you take into consideration its reliability and low maintenance costs. 5. Dependability We all depend on our cars for daily activities; a car that won't start can surely ruin your day. It has a solid reputation as a dependable car, and a well-maintained Camry will not let you down. If you take care of your Camry, it’ll take care of you. 6. Low Repair Costs Future costs of a Camry are reasonable. If repairs are needed, you can expect to pay less than many other models. Inexpensive parts are readily available and labor costs remain low. Owning a Camry will not break the bank. 7. State-of-the-Art Manufacturing The engineers at Toyota steadily improve upon manufacturing trends with every generation. Instead of churning them out as quickly as possible, research and development go into every generation of Camry. 8. Customer Satisfaction Another reason Camry is at the top of the list: Toyota listens to its customers. Every generation improves upon the last when it comes to comfort, higher safety standards, and luxury options. With the perfect blend of reliability, low maintenance costs, and a high safety record, a used Camry is designed with the customer in mind. And with all of the colors, options, and sizes available, it's easy to find just the right one. Stop by today and test drive a Camry at Drive Direct!

It's not salty you crave: yours is a sweet tooth. You'll normally pass on the chance for something hearty in favor of something softer, flakier, and has that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that makes your knees weak. It's the enchanting aroma and flavors of baked treats that your palate desires, so we've rounded up some of our favorite bakeries in Columbus, OH for you to enjoy! Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Café The delectable creations that come out of Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Café taste just as good as they look. Their macarons are available in a variety of colors and mouth-watering flavors, and other baked goods are just as fantastic as well. Pistacia Vera is located in the city's German Village and can also deliver if you're unable to make it there. more The Suisse Shop Bakery If you need a cake that dazzles guests and tastes great, this is the place to order from. Whether it's a birthday, baby shower, wedding, or going away party, the Suisse Shop Bakery specializes in creating custom cakes for every occasion imaginable. You'll be blown away by the precision and technique used to create the perfect cake to celebrate your special moment. It also doesn't hurt that it tastes incredible and is made by cake-makers who’ve clearly mastered their trade! Ohio Pies There's something about a perfectly baked pie that hits you right in the feels. The sound your fork makes as you graze the flakey outer crust and the warm fruity center that lights up your salivary glands the moment it hits your mouth. Pies are America's favorite dessert for a reason, and very few places do them as well as Ohio Pies. The ingredients used are all-natural and often organic, and the flavors are nothing short of heavenly! Belle's Bread Japanese Bakery & Café What do you get when you cross a French bakery with Japanese culinary skills? Absolute magic. In 1972 Takashi Takenaka immigrated to the U.S. with dreams of working in the food industry. In 1987 he opened Restaurant Japan. He later opened Belle's Bread together with his French wife and daughter. Together the trio makes mouthwatering croissants and danishes, along with Japanese cakes and other cultural delights. All ingredients are of the highest quality, and so are the flavors! A Blessed Cookie Co. Only all-natural and high-quality ingredients go into the homemade cookies at A Blessed Cookie Co. They deliver that fresh-out-of-the-oven aroma, texture, and flavor that has put smiles on customers' faces for over 30 years. After one bite of their heavenly creations, you'll never want to eat a factory-made cookie again. The love and passion that goes into the baked goods they make simply cannot be beaten. Bake Me Happy Bake Me Happy serves up the tastiest gluten-free baked goods in Columbus. People with gluten allergies can rejoice knowing this bakery strives to make sweet and delicious baked goods that they too can enjoy! Make plans to visit one or all of these fantastic establishments, and who knows – you may find a new favorite shop to frequent!

In a crowded compact crossover SUV segment, the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox Diesel stands apart. It's one of the only diesel-powered options available in its class, delivering incredible power and efficiency. Power and Performance One of the major standouts of the diesel-powered 2018 Equinox is the efficient power that you can only get from a diesel engine. The engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which returns an estimated 40 mpg on the highway. In a crossover SUV, this number is downright impressive, beating out many small sedans in terms of efficiency. Other improvements to the performance of the vehicle include a four-way multi-link independent rear suspension system, which delivers better handling. more Handles Tough Terrain The 2018 Equinox Diesel is available with all-wheel drive, making it a top choice for buyers who navigate over rough terrain or poor road conditions. When it's slick or snowy out there, the Equinox delivers an improved all-wheel-drive system that helps you feel more confident and secure when you're behind the wheel. Comfortable Interior The cabin of this SUV doesn't disappoint, boasting soft-touch materials and plenty of space for passengers and gear. Available upgrades include extra USB ports throughout the seating areas, wireless device charging, leather upholstery, and heated seats. On the safety side, you can get blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Test drive the Chevrolet Equinox at Drive Direct to see how it stacks up against other compact crossover SUVs. You'll love the features designed to improve power, performance, and comfort! Our friendly, knowledgeable team members are ready to help – visit us today! Image via chevrolet.com

Cycling is a great way to explore the great outdoors, and in Columbus, OH, there's plenty of room to roam. Miles of biking trails wind through the city itself and for long distances outside the limits, giving riders the perfect excuse for a summer's day in the saddle. Whether you prefer skylines or trees, you're sure to find the perfect trail out there for you 1. Scioto Trail The first greenway in the city of Columbus, Scioto Trail, has been a local favorite since its completion in 1976. Sections of the trail follow both banks of the Scioto River, with fantastic views of the Columbus skyline. more The most popular section of the trail is the well-known Scioto Mile, with a string of promenades and local landmarks. The main trailhead is at the southern end of the trail, in the beautiful Audubon Nature Centre, and the trail also directly connects to another major Columbus Trail, the Olentangy Trail. 2. Olentangy Trail One of the most popular ways for visitors to see Columbus is via the Olentangy Trail, which follows the route of the Olentangy River through the Ohio State University Campus. The trail starts in the downtown community of Worthington and has trailheads in several of the city's major parks, including Whetstone Park. 3. Chestnut Ridge Trail Located just a few miles southeast of the city, the Chestnut Ridge Trail offers a great mountain biking experience. The trail system is over ten miles long and offers trail difficulties suitable for everyone, including a professionally-built flow trail with some tricky technical sections for seasoned riders. The ridge is surprisingly steep with some tough climbs to tackle – it's actually the start of the Appalachian Mountain range. 4. Dillon State Park Located just under an hour's drive to the east of Columbus, close to the town of Zanesville, OH, Dillon State Park has an excellent stacked trail system to keep mountain bikers entertained all day long. Over 15 miles of track include flowing singletrack downhills, challenging climbs and accents, and some excellent rock gardens to navigate. However, despite this, the trails tend to be very short on markers and it's quite easy to lose your way so take a map with you when you go. 5. Big Walnut Trail This newly-renovated trail runs through several of central Columbus's parks, starting in Three Creeks Metro Park and running through numerous parks before terminating ten miles later at Hoover Reservoir, a beautiful spot to stop for a bite to eat while overlooking the water. Previously several disparate sections of trail, new works are currently being undertaken to connect the various sections, but it might still be worth taking a map to help keep you on track. This list is just a short selection of the many fantastic bike trails near Columbus that you can explore, so grab your bike, head out there and see what you can find!

Aside from the engine, a vehicle's transmission is one of the most crucial, and expensive, parts of your car. If it breaks down entirely, a full rebuild or replacement can be one of the most costly fixes during your vehicle's lifetime. When you know what to look for, you'll be able to catch any issues your transmission is having so you can bring it in for transmission repair instead of a complete overhaul. 1. Delayed Gear Shifts If you're shifting from park into drive or are beginning to accelerate after a full stop, your automatic transmission should change into the proper gear on its own. A transmission that is failing won't engage immediately, or you might notice that the RPMs surge, but the engine doesn't. A similar response can happen in a manual transmission, although that can often be remedied by replacing the clutch. more 2. Leaking or Low Transmission Fluid Levels Any leaks from your car are worth looking at, but transmission fluid will be easy to quickly identify. It is the only fluid in your car with a sweet smell that is red in color. If you see this type of liquid staining your driveway or garage floor, you have a transmission fluid leak. This leak will cause low fluid levels and may cause damage to the mechanical parts it has been leaking on under the hood. 3. Burning Smell (With or Without Smoke) If your car is smoking under the hood, you will take notice and know something is wrong. The smell of something burning when you turn off your engine, even without smoke, is just as bad but it's better to catch it at this stage before it escalates. If you want to save yourself the cost of needing to replace the transmission completely, have your vehicle serviced immediately if you begin to notice an odor similar to burnt rubber. 4. Unfamiliar Sounds No one knows your vehicle the way you do, so if you begin to hear a sound that is unfamiliar, don't ignore it. When a transmission is breaking down you may start to hear sounds as subtle as humming or whining, or there may be louder grinding or clunking noises. It could be a simple fix like flushing contaminated fluid or it might be something more serious like metal rubbing together creating debris. 5. Engine Service Lights Check engine lights are not just for the engine. The engine is the beating heart of your car so it is connected to every other part, including your transmission, and can detect an issue that needs maintenance. When this light comes on, don't delay in servicing your car. Routine maintenance is the best way to catch any problems early and avoid more serious repairs. Call or stop by Direct Drive today to let us address any of your transmission or maintenance issues. We have experience in all makes and models on the road and can help answer any questions you may have about your vehicle.

Check out these amazing day trips that you can take from Columbus, OH on a single tank of gas! Cleveland Ohio's second-biggest city is a definite must when planning an awesome road trip with friends and family. It boasts an incredible nightlife scene with trendy bars, clubs, and world-class dining. It's also home to many important museums and landmarks, like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. If you love sports, you'll love Cleveland. With teams in various pro sports, you can catch the action live with thousands of screaming fans. more Cincinnati Cincinnati, Ohio's third-largest city, is just 90 minutes south of Columbus and packed with interesting things to see and fun activities. The city has reinvented itself over the past couple of decades and has become a cultural hub for arts and theatre lovers. Like Cleveland, it also has a bustling nightlife and delivers hard-hitting action across several pro sports teams. Enjoy a Bengals game at Paul Brown Stadium in downtown Cincinnati, then tour the area! Hocking Hills Hocking Hills is a short drive from Columbus and is home to Ohio's most unique rock formations. It's here where you'll find a multitude of caves and cliffs that are perfect for hiking along. This massive park also provides other fun activities like zip-lining and rock climbing while supervised by a professional. But the most popular area of Hocking Hills is Ash Cave, a massive formation with a large opening that visitors can walk through and around. Cuyahoga Valley National Park Ohio's beloved National Park is located just a few miles from Cleveland. It boasts breathtaking scenery and gives visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy some trail-hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. You'll love the picturesque landscape as you make your way along the Cuyahoga River and arrive at the park's beautiful waterfalls and caves. The park is also home to a historically important canal, which was the first-ever in Ohio. Dayton Do you have an aviation buff in your family or circle of friends? If so, hop in the car and head over to Dayton, the home of the Wright Brothers. You'll have plenty of aviation-related artifacts to see at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, located in the city. It's one of the world's largest aviation museums and is a must-visit for anyone planning a day trip to Dayton. German Village You don't need to visit a village town in Germany to enjoy some authentic schnitzel and toasted pretzel! Ohio is home to a charming place known as the German Village, which has all of this and more! The local architecture and shops resemble a late 18th-century German town and make for a perfect day trip to walk and explore its marvelous sights and enjoy the local flavors. These are just a few of the incredible places surrounding Columbus, OH that would make for a marvelous day trip! Start planning today to get the most out of your excursion!

Honda Civic Keep reading to learn our best tips for when you’re shopping for a used Honda Civic. Knicks and Scratches A used car can still look as good as new if it has been properly taken care of. Give the exterior paint job a once-over for any scratches or paint that has been chipped off. If you find some irregularities and you're still interested in purchasing the car, you can negotiate the price a little lower. more Check Service and Repair Record Purchasing a used Civic does not mean you're buying a vehicle that will be problematic, as long as you do your homework. It's important to ask for authentic service and repair records to ensure the previous owner took care of the vehicle and kept up with regular maintenance and oil changes. If you see that the vehicle has been in an accident or that the owner has no records to show, it might be best to try another Civic for sale. Inspect for Rust This tip is especially important if you live in an area that has less-than-ideal winters. Be sure you're checking for rust and other signs of wear and tear on the used Civic you intend to buy. Inspect areas like the underbody of the vehicle, the hood, and the trunk. Small rust spots might not be a dealbreaker to you, but they can help you negotiate the price in your favor. Big rust issues on the other hand should have you walk the other way. Cabin Condition Make sure to thoroughly inspect the interior of the used Civic you're interested in. Take a seat in the front and back row to ensure the seating isn't damaged in any way. Also, inspect the upholstery and interior windows for any stains that may have come as a result of excessive smoking in the vehicle. Mold is another issue that can creep up on vehicles that aren't cleaned frequently, so take a good look in those hard-to-reach places. Leaks Leaks are one of the easiest problems to spot since many fluids run through a vehicle. Check underneath the car first for any indication of an oil leak. If you see oil or sludge on the driveway there's a decent chance the used Civic you're interested in is leaking oil. Also, make sure you pop the hood to check for other types of fluid leaks. Antifreeze is usually green or pink and power steering fluid has a reddish-brown tint. Start'er Up This part of the examination process ultimately lets you decide whether you're giving this used Civic the green light, or if you're making a U-turn and looking elsewhere. Test driving the vehicle will let you know how well it drives and if there are any warning signs like squeaky brakes or irregular engine noise. But before you put it in drive, check the exhaust pipe to make sure the car isn't burning oil. Blue smoke is a dead giveaway. You can trust that our pre-owned Hondas are in tip-top shape. Stop by Direct Drive today for a test drive!

Most drivers will at some time experience the shock of a small rock or other debris hitting their windshield and leaving a chip or crack in the glass. It's an inconvenience and an expense to get it fixed, and, if the damage is not in your line of vision, you might be tempted to ignore it. However, it's important to take action quickly because even the smallest chips and cracks can spread and present a number of risks. Dangers of Driving With a Cracked Windshield Extreme temperature changes can make a cracked windshield worse. The glass expands in the heat and contracts in the cold, and a crack or chip presents a weak spot that can spread. Additionally, if moisture gets into a chip and freezes, it will expand and spread the damage. more You can get a ticket for a damaged windshield in some states. If a police officer considers that a crack is interfering with your field of vision, they could deem the vehicle unsafe and give you a ticket. A cracked windshield can put you and your passengers at greater risk in a car accident. In modern cars, the windshield contributes to the structural integrity of the vehicle. If you're involved in a frontal collision, the cracked glass is more likely to shatter, and in a rollover accident, the roof is more likely to cave in. Windshield Repair Depending on the size, position, and severity of the damage, you may be able to get your windshield damage repaired. It's a quicker and more cost-effective solution than having the glass replaced. Generally, if a crack is less than 3 inches long or a chip is smaller than a quarter, the damage can be repaired. DIY auto glass repair kits are available, but they can be time-consuming and difficult if you're not confident in using them. You could actually end up making the damage worse. It's always better to get a quality windshield repair carried out by a professional auto glass company. You'll need to act fast to get a windshield repair, as driving with cracked or chipped glass can make the damage spread. For an expert, the repair is a simple procedure that usually takes less than an hour. The technician will use a small vacuum cleaner to suck any dirt or moisture from the chip or crack. Then they'll inject resin to fill the damaged area. When done professionally, the repair should be a safe long-term solution to a damaged windshield. Windshield Replacement A windshield repair is not always possible, even for small damage. If a chip is directly in your line of vision, a repair can still leave a distortion in the glass. A crack right at the edge of the windshield could spread quickly and undermine the structural integrity of the glass. In these cases, a windshield replacement is the best and safest option. Windshield repair or replacement may be covered under your car insurance policy, although you might have to pay a deductible. When windshield damage happens, contact your local auto glass repairer immediately for advice on the best course of action. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License

If you've ever thought about purchasing a Cadillac but aren't sure about fitting it into your budget, consider a certified pre-owned Cadillac. Not only is a certified pre-owned Cadillac an affordable option, but the manufacturer offers consumers several perks when they purchase a certified Escalade, CT4, or other Cadillac vehicles. Here are five benefits of buying a certified pre-owned Cadillac. 172-Point Inspection Before Cadillac awards certification to a pre-owned sedan or SUV, the vehicle has to undergo a rigorous 172-point inspection. Every component under the hood and under the vehicle has to be in perfect working order. The exterior and interior are thoroughly inspected for wear and tear. A Cadillac technician takes the vehicle on a road test to see how it handles. Cadillac also reviews the vehicle history and ensures that the previous owner kept up with scheduled maintenance. When you buy a certified pre-owned Cadillac, you can count on it to function as well as a brand-new model. more Warranty Transfer If you purchase a certified pre-owned Cadillac before the original bumper-to-bumper warranty expires, the warranty transfers to you. This transfer means that the entire vehicle is covered for repairs, parts, and labor for the remainder of the warranty. If the original owner purchased an extended warranty, the remainder of that warranty is transferred too. Cadillac offers a 1-year warranty on certified pre-owned vehicles if the original warranty has already expired. Nationwide Cadillac Certified Service When you have to go out of town, the last thing you want to worry about is where you can get your vehicle repaired if something goes wrong. If you buy a certified pre-owned Cadillac, you can take it to any Cadillac dealership in the country for repairs. From coast to coast, you can count on factory-trained technicians to provide the same quality service that you would receive from your local dealership. They'll also honor any warranties that are still in effect and provide you with a loaner vehicle. 24-Hour Roadside Assistance All certified pre-owned Cadillacs still under warranty come with 24-hour roadside assistance until the warranty expires. If you have OnStar equipment in your Cadillac, you can also take advantage of a three-month trial. OnStar services include automatic crash response, vehicle diagnostics, turn-by-turn navigation, and the Remote Link OnStar mobile app. A three-month trial of SiriusXM radio lets you enjoy ad-free music, talk shows, and live sports. Special Financing Cadillac offers special financing on many of its certified pre-owned vehicles, so you can count on getting a quality vehicle at a fair price. If you're an active service member, veteran, or first responder, you may qualify for additional discounts. Even if you don't qualify for special incentives, Cadillac financing experts will put together a package that works for you. Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle may also qualify you for lower rates from your insurance company, saving you even more money. These are just a few of the many benefits of buying a certified pre-owned Cadillac. Visit Drive Direct today and browse through our selection of impressive models. Image via cadillac.com

Your car is likely one of your most important investments, so it's essential to take care of it. Keeping your car's exterior in good condition is a year-round job since it is exposed to elements during every season. Whether it's snow and ice, wind, or the harsh sun, it all takes a toll on your car. Here are some tips for how to care for your car's exterior. Wash It One of the most basic tips for taking care of your car is to clean it. Wash it regularly and often to remove debris that can harm the paint. Regular washing will also reduce the chances of rusting. If you wash it at home, find a shady spot or do it in the early morning, or wait until evening when the sun isn't high in the sky. Fill two buckets with water. more Add a cleaner to one and keep the other filled with clean water for rinsing. If you prefer to take it to a car wash, find a high-quality one and make sure it removes all the dust and dirt from the paint and the undercarriage. Dry your car after washing it. Find a soft cloth and run it over the entire exterior of the car. If you skip this step, the paint can develop mineral spots that will stain the paint when the sun beats down on it. Always Use Cleaners Designed for Autos Never use household cleaners on your vehicle. Take the time to go to the store and purchase a quality cleaner designed for autos. Household cleaners can scratch and damage the paint. It is also important to use a soft cloth or sponge to clean it. A terry or microfiber cloth will always do the trick. Wax It Wax is an important part of keeping your car looking good, and it also protects the paint. A coat of wax creates a barrier between the paint and all the outdoor elements, such as the sun and harsh weather. You don't have to wax every time you wash your car, but you should apply a coat several times a year. You can do it yourself or bring it to a car wash that offers quick wax application. Keep It Out of the Sun The sun's rays harm a vehicle's exterior paint. Do your best to keep your vehicle protected from the heat and the sun as much as possible. This might mean parking in the shade when you can find a spot, keeping it in a garage, or even getting a car cover. A good cover will protect the vehicle from harmful UV rays, which will cause the paint to fade. Keeping your car covered will also protect it from other elements such as sap dripping from trees, falling debris during a storm, and bird droppings. It only takes a short time to wash your car, but it makes a big difference. Keeping it clean and protected with a layer of wax will help it last longer and look good for many years. Image via pixabay.com | Licensed under Pixabay License