You’ve decided on the vehicle you want, and now you’re faced with the choice to buy or lease it. As your CDJR dealer, we often get asked which is the better option. We want to help you, so we’re going to tell you more about both options to enable you can decide whether to buy or lease a car.

Buy a Car

When you buy a car, it becomes your property. You acquire its title, and if it’s paid off, you’re free to sell it, transfer it, gift it, or donate it as you choose. You can keep it for as long as you like, and you can also eventually use it as a trade-in for a newer model. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of this option.

No Mileage Limitation

Since you own your car, you can drive it as often and as far as you like. The only caveat is that the more extensively you drive, the sooner your scheduled maintenance will be due. In addition, if you intend to sell your car in the future, it’s advisable to keep the mileage under 100,000 miles to maintain resale value.

If you lease a car, you have a monthly or yearly mileage limit. If you exceed your mileage limit, you pay extra costs above your lease payment.

No Modification Issues

You can choose to add any modifications or accessories you want that are legally allowed if you own a car. If you lease, you can’t make any modifications.

Lease a Car

When you lease a car, you sign a contract with a dealer for a car for a set period, which is usually two to five years. You can choose the model you’d like and any accessories. You make a monthly lease payment.  At the end of the term, you can extend your lease, buy the car, or choose another vehicle to lease. Let’s look at some of the other benefits of a lease.

No Maintenance Charges

Regular services and maintenance can add up if you own a car, and you may have to budget. When you lease a car,  maintenance and servicing are included in the cost of the lease.

Newer Technology

If you enjoy always having the latest technology, leasing is a good option. When your lease expires, you can choose a more advanced model with all the latest technology. When you buy a car, you will have to sell it to buy a newer model.

As you can see, there are benefits to both choices. If you’d like to know more, visit our finance department today at Courtesy CDJR in Altoona, PA.

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Vehicle owners are often tempted to buy and install aftermarket parts. Saving money is the usual, valid temptation, but should you be tempted to fit third-party components onto your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram? Whenever you take your beloved car or pickup to a CDJR dealer for servicing, only genuine MOPAR OEM parts are used, and there are reasons why this is a good idea.

While it’s true that aftermarket parts are often cheaper than original parts, that’s typically their only tangible benefit. And it’s a false economy for several reasons.

Safety and Peace of Mind

The original parts used by a CDJR service center are made by MOPAR, a division of FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). You can rest assured these parts are manufactured to strict safety standards, so you’re not taking any kind of risk by having them installed. This peace of mind is something you won’t always enjoy when fitting third-party or no-brand components.

Precise Fit

Because aftermarket parts are often not manufactured to the same exacting standards as genuine parts, sometimes their fit is less precise. This can lead to inferior performance and efficiency, which ironically causes more expense than using original parts. One benefit of having your CDJR vehicle serviced by an authorized technician using OEM MOPAR parts is the lack of compromise.

Compatibility and Functionality

Modern vehicles are loaded with advanced features and sophisticated electronic systems. When you have a more complex OEM part installed on your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM, you can be sure it syncs perfectly with all the clever tech that’s present. An example of this might be a Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

Keep Your Warranty Valid

Using only original parts on your CDJR vehicle helps to ensure your warranty is valid if something goes wrong. Manufacturers do not guarantee parts that were not on the vehicle when it left the factory or that aren’t certified for use. Vehicles that are properly maintained with the appropriate OEM components will not face warranty problems.

Resale Value

A vehicle that has been looked after well and isn’t a “Frankenstein’s monster” of cheap parts retains its resale value better. Anyone looking to buy your vehicle with a keen eye for detail will see that you haven’t jeopardized its condition with inferior components.

Visit Your Local CDJR Dealer for the Best in Servicing

Your local Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM dealership will only install original, perfectly compatible MOPAR parts on your vehicle. You automatically get peace of mind as a free extra, not to mention optimized performance for your car or truck.

Call Courtesy Motor Sales in Altoona, PA today to schedule a service or drop into our MOPAR Express Lane for quick checks and replacements.

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The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and individuals looking for a comfortable, reliable, and stylish daily driver. These are the features you can expect when you check out the Jeep Grand Cherokee at your local Jeep dealership.

Powerful Performance

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is powered by a 3.6L V6 engine that delivers 293 horsepower, with rear-wheel drive coming standard on the Grand Cherokee, and all-wheel drive available as an upgrade. In addition to the standard gas-powered engine, there is also an available plug-in-hybrid 4xe powertrain option.

Standard on the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, the turbocharged 2.0L inline-four and electric motor delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pounds per foot of torque. A 14.0-kWh battery pack powers the hybrid motor. With this engine, the Grand Cherokee 4xe can go from zero to 60 MPH in just 5.3 seconds. The hybrid version of the Grand Cherokee also comes standard with all-wheel drive.

Off-Road Capabilities

Depending on the model that you choose, the Grand Cherokee has three different 4×4 systems, all capable of taking on tough roads in any weather. An available Quadra-Lift Air Suspension System will automatically lower your vehicle’s height when you reach highway speeds, and raise it when off-roading to improve performance without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe model even has special high air intakes and water sealing. Combined with the Quadra-Lift Air Suspension, this allows you to ford water up to 24 inches deep. With high levels of articulation, coupled with higher ground clearance and improved traction on select models, the Grand Cherokee is just as home off the road as it is on your daily commute through the city.

An Upgraded Interior

Though it may have rugged and capable features to help it tackle any terrain, the interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is designed with comfort and style in mind. Available 16-way adjustable seats with optional massage mode, multicolor ambient LED lighting, and a variety of luxurious trim options make for a beautiful interior.

An optional third row is perfect for those looking to transport more passengers, while an incredible 70.8 to 84.6 cubic feet of cargo space ensures you always have room for your gear.

The Best Advanced Safety Features Available at Your Local Jeep Dealership

The Grand Cherokee won’t just help you get where you need to go. It’ll also help keep you safe along the way. Jeep’s comprehensive suite of standard safety technology and optional upgrades provide more than 110 different safety and security features.

Stand-out features include parallel and perpendicular park assist, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. In 2023, the Grand Cherokee even received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.

Ready to experience the new Jeep Grand Cherokee? Visit Courtesy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Altoona, PA today to test drive the Grand Cherokee or get your questions answered.

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Keeping up with changing your vehicle’s oil is an aspect of maintenance that often gets overlooked by car owners. But a consistent oil change schedule is a crucial investment in how long your vehicle lasts and how well it performs. Here are a few thoughts from your local CDJR dealer about the benefits of regularly changing your engine’s oil.

Engine Health and Longevity

One of the primary benefits of getting your vehicle’s oil replaced regularly for your CDJR vehicle is the preservation of its engine health and longevity. Motor oil is key to lubricating the engine’s components and reducing friction. As oil ages, it breaks down and becomes contaminated with debris, which can lead to increased wear and tear on your engine. Changing the oil at recommended intervals helps to ensure that your vehicle’s engine remains well-lubricated and operates smoothly, which will ultimately extend its lifespan.

Improved Fuel Efficiency

Maintaining proper oil levels and oil quality in your vehicle can significantly impact its fuel efficiency. Clean and fresh oil reduces friction within the engine, allowing it to run more efficiently. This, in turn, leads to improved gas mileage and savings at the pump. A regular routine for replacing the oil is an investment in your vehicle’s health, and will mean savings for you in the long run.

Enhanced Performance

For CDJR enthusiasts, the thrill of driving extends beyond the daily commute. Getting the oil replaced regularly plays a vital role in ensuring that your vehicle delivers the performance you expect. Clean oil allows your engine to run smoothly, providing optimal power and acceleration. If you’re passionate about the capabilities of your CDJR vehicle and want to see it perform at its full potential, changing out the oil regularly is key.

Prevent Costly Repairs

Neglecting your vehicle’s engine oil can lead to costly repairs down the road. When oil becomes old and contaminated, it loses its ability to lubricate effectively, leading to increased friction and heat within the engine. This can result in engine damage, which can be a significant financial burden to repair. Regularly replacing the oil is a proactive way to prevent such expensive issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Warranty Protection

For many CDJR vehicles, the manufacturer warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. The regular maintenance requirements always include changing the oil. Not following these requirements for regular maintenance could jeopardize your warranty coverage. By keeping to a regular schedule for replacing the oil as recommended by your vehicle’s manual, you ensure that your warranty remains intact.

Call us today at Courtesy Motor Sales CDJR to schedule your vehicle for an oil check and change. Our experienced service team here in Altoona, PA is here to assist you in maintaining your vehicle’s health and keep your CDJR vehicle running at its best.

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Now here at your neighborhood RAM dealership, the 2024 RAM 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup that deserves a closer look.

Muscle Meets Versatility

The 2024 edition of the RAM 2500 offers two reliable engines to choose from, with the first being a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 that delivers 410 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. The other is a 370-horsepower turbocharged diesel I6 that produces 850 pound-feet of torque and superior towing capabilities with its 19,900-pound maximum capacity.
 
When venturing into off-road surroundings, this truck’s advanced 4×4 system easily tackles challenges, and this versatility is enhanced by the electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case and both front and rear performance-tuned shock absorbers. While the Auto-Level Rear Air Suspension provides smooth rides both on and off-road, the engine block heater helps to make colder mornings stress-free.
 

Comforts and Exterior

Inside the truck’s cabin, premium leather and other upscale materials are available for the seats, as well as heating and ventilation settings for the front-row seats and a heating setting for those seated in the rear. Bold-looking interior color schemes like Black and a Black with Diesel Gray combination are available, the rear 60/40 seat folds down when you have large cargo, and the rear under-seat storage area offers additional space if you should need it.
 
There’s also plenty of room in the bed outside, with LED bed lighting, cargo dividers, and a deployable bed step available to make loading and unloading cargo easier, as well as the lockable RamBox Cargo Management System, which comes with a convenient power outlet. The rain-sensitive automatic wipers, power-release tailgate, power running boards, and telescoping trailer tow mirrors all offer convenience, while the rock rails and skid-plate shields for both the fuel tank and transfer case provide more ruggedness.
 

Technology and Safety

This pickup’s advanced tech features enhance every drive, as you can use the Uconnect 5 NAV system to make hands-free calls, connect to both AM/FM and satellite radio channels, and get navigation instructions, while the 360-degree camera shows you your surroundings in full color. The Digital Rearview Mirror allows you to see behind the truck, even when taller passengers are in the rear seat, and Trailer Tow Pages lets you keep tabs on your trailer’s lights and brake status.
 
Also advanced are the many safety-monitoring systems offered, like the Adaptive Forward Lighting System, Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, LaneSense Lane Departure Warning, ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
 
This heavy-duty pickup is now here at our dealership and ready for test drives, so come see it in action for yourself by contacting us today at Courtesy CDJR in Altoona, PA.

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When it comes to purchasing a new or used vehicle, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how to finance your car. Getting financing through your local CDJR (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram) dealership can offer numerous advantages that make the buying process smoother and more rewarding. In this article, we will explore the benefits of choosing car financing at a CDJR dealership.

Specialized Knowledge

Our dealership specializes in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, which means they have in-depth knowledge of these brands and their financing options. This expertise can be invaluable when it comes to helping you find the best financing solution tailored to your specific needs and budget. Dealership staff can guide you through the various financing options available, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Competitive Interest Rates

Dealerships often have access to competitive interest rates and financing offers that you may not find elsewhere. Since we work closely with lenders who specialize in automotive financing, we can negotiate favorable terms and rates on your behalf, potentially saving you money over the life of your loan.

Convenience

Getting financing at a dealership streamlines the car-buying process. You can choose your vehicle, explore financing options, and complete the necessary paperwork all in one place. This convenience saves you time and simplifies what can otherwise be a complex and time-consuming process.

Flexible Financing Options

Dealerships offer a range of financing options to suit your financial situation. Whether you’re looking for a traditional auto loan, a lease, or a special financing program, they can provide you with options that align with your preferences and budget constraints.

Exclusive Incentives

Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram often offer manufacturer incentives, such as cash rebates, low-interest financing, or lease specials. Our dealerships are well-informed about these incentives and can help you take advantage of any current promotions, potentially reducing your overall cost.

Access to Extended Warranties and Protection Plans

Dealerships offer extended warranties and protection plans that can provide peace of mind during your ownership experience. These plans can cover repairs, maintenance, and other unexpected expenses, ensuring your investment remains protected.

Building Relationships

When you finance your vehicle at a dealership, you have the opportunity to build a lasting relationship with the dealership’s staff. This can be beneficial for future vehicle purchases, maintenance needs, and even referrals to friends and family.

If you’re in the market for a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle and want a seamless and rewarding financing experience, contact Courtesy Motor Sales CDJR today. Our knowledgeable staff here in Altoona, PA, and our commitment to customer satisfaction will ensure you drive away with both the car of your dreams and a financing solution that fits your budget.

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When you’re driving, you need to know that your brakes will work exactly when you need them to. The braking system is mechanical, and over time, parts can become worn or damaged, and you’ll need a brake repair. As your CDJR dealer, we’d like to tell you about some signs that your brakes could be in trouble.

Screeching and Grinding

Your brakes shouldn’t make any noise when they bring your car to a stop. If you hear screeching or grinding noises, these are signs of brake trouble. These noises are made by the brake pads wearing in two different stages of wear. The pads have a 1/2″ friction material covering that generates the friction that brings the wheels to a stop. Each time you apply the brake, minute particles of this material flake off.

A metal spike inside the pad becomes visible when the pad thickness drops to 1/8″. This spike will scratch against the rotor when you brake, producing screeching noises. If the pads aren’t replaced, the material covering will eventually wear off completely. When this happens, the metal pads will gouge into the rotors and make a grinding noise. We can solve both of these noises by replacing your pads.

Chemical Smells

Brake fluid is essential for your braking system. The fluid fills the braking system and provides the hydraulic power that allows the brakes to engage. The high pressure in the braking system generates heat, and this combination of pressure, heat, and age will affect the fluid. It loses its heat-resistant properties, and this can cause the fluid to overheat.

Hot brake fluid can burn if it doesn’t get a chance to cool down. If this happens, you’ll smell a foul chemical smell wafting through the windows. Burnt brake fluid can’t provide hydraulic power, which means your brakes won’t work. If you think the brake fluid might be burning, call our service department ASAP so we can investigate and fix this issue.

Pulling to One Side

If your vehicle pulls to one side when you hit the brake, you have a brake problem. A set of calipers is positioned above each wheel rotor. When you brake, the calipers are forced against both sides of each rotor. The brake pads inside the calipers then generate friction against the rotors and bring them to a stop.

All four calipers should engage simultaneously. If your car pulls in one direction, this means that the caliper on the wheel that’s still moving hasn’t engaged. This failure could be caused by a blockage in the brake hose connected to that caliper, or the caliper might be jammed or rusted. Our technicians will investigate and fix the issue.

If you have a problem with your brakes, visit our service department right away at Courtesy CDJR in Altoona, PA.

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The 2024 RAM 1500 is a versatile pickup that offers stunning performance and off-road capabilities, and it’s now here at your local RAM dealer.

Adaptable Performance

This edition of the RAM 1500 provides a 305-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and two V8s, with the first being a 395-horsepower 5.7-liter and the other a monstrous 702-horsepower 6.2-liter. If you plan to use this pickup for towing, the smaller V8 is optimized for it with a 12,750-pound rating, and if you have long road trips in mind, there’s the Active Level Four-Corner Air Suspension that lowers the vehicle at higher speeds to reduce drag and fuel consumption.

In off-road scenarios, this truck shines and adapts to challenging terrains like mud, gravel, sand, and snow, thanks to its available 4×4 system. Among the many trim levels available, the TRX is the most rugged and offers plenty of terrain-tackling extras ranging from a beefed-up suspension system to factory-installed Bilstein shocks for smoother rides.

Interior and Convenience

Relaxing in this truck’s cabin is easy when you have dual-zone climate control, heating settings for both the front and rear seats, as well as cooling setting for the seats up front. Premium fabrics are also offered, including perforated leather, the 60/40 rear bench seat has multiple configurations, and the dual-pane sunroof is expansive enough for everyone to enjoy.

The truck’s exterior was designed with plenty of style and heavy workloads in mind, as its multi-function tailgate simplifies cargo loading and can hold up to 2,000 pounds on it when dropped down, the spray-in bedliner and tri-fold tonneau cover protect both the bed and cargo, and its wide assortment of wheel options includes a standout set of 22-inch black aluminum ones.

Tech and Safety Monitoring

Sophisticated tech features offered include a customizable full-color 12-inch information cluster behind the wheel with 3D graphics, and the optional Head-Up Display that puts your current speed, incoming call notifications, and navigation instructions on your windshield.

Also impressive and hi-tech are the many safety-monitoring systems, with the Blind Spot Monitoring System, Lane Sense, and Lane Keep Assist helping you avoid collisions on multi-lane highways, and Rear Cross Path and Trailer Detection helping you reverse with peace of mind. Working in the background, Electronic Roll Mitigation helps prevent traction loss, and Forward Collision Warning combines with Active Braking and Pedestrian Emergency Braking to warn or automatically stop the truck when there are hazards in your path.

The 2024 edition of the RAM 1500 provides powerful, off-road-capable performance in a stylish design, and it’s now ready for test drives. Contact us at Courtesy Motor Sales to see it in action for yourself from the driver’s seat.

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The perfect vehicle should have a mixture of comfort and capability, and the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee definitely does. When you visit your Jeep dealer, you’ll be very pleased to climb into a vehicle with a luxurious interior that delivers a thrilling performance once you take it out on the road.

Top Performance Features

Off-Roading Abilities

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is Trail Rated. It’s easily able to get through the toughest conditions you might experience while you’re hitting the trails. It has 10.9 inches of ground clearance and can drive through water up to 24 inches deep.

There are three available 4×4 systems that help all the wheels maintain maximum traction on any driving surface, and the SUV’s incredible articulation helps keep all four wheels on the ground even when driving on uneven surfaces. Although this SUV is large, it’s highly maneuverable and won’t have any trouble taking on tight corners while you’re off-roading.

High Towing Capacity

There are three engine options available for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, and all three give the SUV a lot of towing prowess. The two-liter I4 turbo PHEV engine, with its output of 370 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, can haul up to 6,000 pounds. The 293-hp 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine is capable of towing up to 6,200 pounds and pumps out 260 lb-ft of torque.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine is the strongest of all, with an output of 357 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque, and a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of 7,200 pounds.

Quadra-Lift Air Suspension System

The Grand Cherokee’s suspension system is optimized for different types of driving. When you’re on the trail, it automatically raises the vehicle to make it easier to clear obstacles. On the highway, it lowers the car to help with aerodynamics.

Top Luxurious Features

Highly Adjustable Seats

It’s essential to be comfortable while engaging in difficult trail driving. All surfaces are lavishly smooth, and the front seats are 16-way power-adjustable. They have an available massage function, and they can remember your favorite positions. You’ll find the most luxurious seats of all the Grand Cherokee models on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit.

Ambient Lighting

Set the mood for every drive with the available ambient lighting. The multicolor LED lights will help you create the perfect atmosphere for every trip.

High-Tech Entertainment

The Grand Cherokee has the most advanced tech features in its class. There’s an available premium audio system with a best-in-class 19 speakers, which is great when you’re streaming music through the 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment system.

Are you ready to climb inside the luxurious cabin and see how the Grand Cherokee feels to drive? Visit Courtesy Motor Sales and take one out for a test drive today.

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If you are looking for a compact utility vehicle that pays homage to the iconic and legendary performance of Dodge, you need to check out the Hornet available at your Dodge dealer. The 2024 Dodge Hornet has two available powertrains and is the most powerful CUV in its segment. This all-wheel drive vehicle is powerful and exhilarating to drive.

If you are looking for a CUV with a top speed of 140 miles per hour, look no further than the Hornet with its turbocharged 2.0L Hurricane4 powertrain. This aggressive engine delivers 268 horsepower with 295 pounds per foot of max torque. You’ll find that this engine is paired with a smooth 9-speed auto transmission.

The second powertrain available on the Hornet is on the PHEV model. This turbocharged 1.3L engine is matched to a powerful electric motor that delivers up to 288 horsepower combined with 383 lb-ft of max torque. This engine has a top speed of 128 mph and can run from 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. No matter which model you choose, the Hornet is lightning fast.

Long Range

The Hornet R/T’s ability to seamlessly switch between gas and electric power means this hybrid is built for long-distance road trips. Not only do you have exceptional fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 77 mpge and up to 32 miles on a single electric charge, but you can also enjoy an EPA-estimated 360 miles of total driving range.

Power Sunroof

The ’24 Hornet boasts a standard power sunroof on the GT Plus and R/T Plus Performance Hybrid models. This powered sunroof features a rolling sunshade and a spring-loaded front edge that works as a wind jammer. The wind jammer reduces wind noise to keep your ride quiet. The sunroof provides sunshine and fresh air to the cabin and delivers incredible views of the sky above.

Designed for Drivers

The high-performance cabin of the Hornet is engineered for serious drivers. You will love the massive 12-inch customizable Digital Driver Information Cluster Display that has two appearance themes to choose from. The display features stats like your fuel economy and speed, as well as your phone alerts and your available navigation.

Put your hands on the steering wheel and use the paddle shifters inside the R/T to feel connected to the road like never before. Additionally, you’ll find that the available Alcantara heated front seats feel incredible and keep you warm during the cold months.

If you are looking for a compact utility vehicle this year, make sure the most powerful CUV in its segment is on your list. Call us at Courtesy Motor Sales to speak to a member of our finance department about getting pre-approved for your next family vehicle today.

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