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It is vital to regularly check your vehicle's tire pressure to improve handling and your safety on the road. If you ensure that your tires are always inflated to the proper pressure levels, it will save you money on gas and extend the life of your tires. In this article, your Nissan dealer explains how to check the tire pressure on your car and ensure they are inflated to the correct PSI. Perform Tire Pressure Checks on Cold Tires Wait for the tires to cool down before you do a tire pressure check. A tire pressure reading when the tires are hot will affect the pressure reading. Wait two to three hours for tires to cool down before checking the tire pressure. Find the Correct PSI You need to know the correct tire pressure level for each tire on your vehicle. You will find the correct PSI for your vehicle's tires on a sticker inside your driver's door. Your vehicle's owner's manual will also have information on the recommended tire pressure levels. If the tire pressure levels between the front and rear tires differ, write down the PSI for each tire on a piece of paper. Use a Tire Pressure Gauge Check the PSI of each tire with an analog or digital tire pressure gauge. An analog dial tire pressure gauge has a dial face with measurements. An analog pen tire pressure gauge has a stick with numbers or a bar that moves upward to indicate the tire pressure level. The easiest is to use a battery-powered digital tire pressure gauge that gives a digital reading. Measuring the Tire Pressure You can start with any one of the tires on your car. Remove the valve cap and keep it in a safe place. Take your tire pressure gauge and press it against the valve stem until you hear a hissing sound. Hold the tire pressure gauge in place until you get a tire pressure reading. A digital tire pressure gauge will display the reading on a screen. The dial on a standard gauge will point to the pressure, or a bar will move upward to show the tire pressure level. Write Down the Reading Write down the reading next to the recommended PSI for that specific tire. Perform a tire pressure reading on the rest of the tires. Remember to write down the reading next to the PSI for each tire. When you measure the tire pressure level of a tire, and it's correct, you can replace the valve cap. If you need to inflate the tire, keep the valve cap in a safe place until after you've increased the level to the correct PSI. Inflate the Tires You now have the tire pressure readings of all four tires. Compare the reading of each tire to the correct tire pressure level that you wrote down on the piece of paper. If the PSI of a tire is lower than the recommended tire pressure level, inflate the tire until it reaches the correct level. It's important not to overinflate the tires as it could cause damage to the tire. If you notice a tire is overinflated, you can push the back of the tire pressure gauge down on the metal pin in the valve stem to release the excess air. Replace the valve cap when the tire is inflated to the correct tire pressure level. Always keep your tires inflated to the correct tire pressure levels to prevent blowouts, decrease wear, and save you money on gas. Do you need a new set of tires or a tire service in College Park, MD? We have you covered at DARCARS Nissan of College Park! Click here to schedule your auto repair today!

College Park, MD, is a family community, so generosity is a fixture of the region. If you're thinking about going big and gifting a car to a family member, keep these valuable tips in mind. Qualifications By Maryland statutes, vehicle gifts to families typically apply to the most immediate family members. Parents can gift cars to their children, and children can gift vehicles to their parents. In the case of children, the gift-giving can also extend to in-laws (a son-in-law or daughter-in-law). Step relationships and relationships made through adoption also are included. Spouses can gift vehicles to each other, too, as can siblings and grandparents, and grandchildren. Aunts and uncles may potentially gift a car as well, provided they are at least 65 years old. In all of the above cases, the gift-giver cannot receive compensation in any form or the transfer will not be considered a gift. In addition, the vehicle must not have any outstanding tickets or violations associated with it. Proof of Relationship All involved parties will need to establish that they are related. If the last names of the gift-giver and giftee are the same, this situation is usually enough proof. If the last names are different, however, the documented proof is required. Official documents might include a marriage certificate or a birth certificate. If both the parties prove they are either spouses or parent and child, the tags of the auto can be transferred. For all other applicable family relationships, a new license plate will need to be purchased. Other Documentation Formal filing and transfer of ownership will take place at the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). The MVA might ask for the following documents during this process: driver's license, car insurance information, auto's mileage (or odometer disclosure), security interest filing, lien release statement (if applicable), registration card (for tag transfers), and safety inspection certificate. Two additional documents are crucial to the transfer. For one, the car's current title will need to be provided, and this document is essentially a certificate of ownership for the auto. Further, the gift-giver should sign and submit a gift certification form, which can be obtained from the MVA. If an aunt or uncle is gifting the vehicle, he or she should enclose a Certified Statement form with the gift certification. Taxation and Fees In most cases, a gift to a qualified family member will not be subject to taxes. If the vehicle has a Maryland title, it will not be taxed. A car that has been out-of-state but still has a title history in Maryland will also not fall under taxation guidelines. If the vehicle has always been titled outside of Maryland, or if the family relationship does not fall into the aforementioned categories, the giftee will probably pay an excise tax. In Maryland, this tax constitutes six percent of what the vehicle is worth. The new owner will still have to pay the title fee and the registration fee for the car in any case. Are you planning to give the gift of a new car in College Park, MD, soon? If so, be sure to get to know the Nissan lineup today! Our dealership guarantees to have the perfect vehicle for your loved one and our sales team is here to help you find it!

When you visit your local Nissan dealer, you'll be impressed by the aesthetic and efficiency of the inventory. Don't forget one important factor for any car buyer, though: safety. Check out these car safety features in today's Nissans to help keep you secure and stress-free on the road. Automatic Braking Nissan's safety package is known as the Safety Shield 360 because its features provide protection from all angles. This necessary process is on full display in the intelligent braking system. You will benefit from automatic emergency braking that gives alerts you can both see and hear when a potential collision is imminent. A pedestrian detection feature is also incorporated in the system. The rear automatic braking system can even offer a watchful eye for objects behind you. If you cannot hit the brakes yourself, they will be engaged by this top-line sensor system. Parking Lot Protections Many drivers have braved packed parking lots, which can often seem as hazardous as a busy highway. No one wants to hear that heart-dropping thump as they back out of a space. The Nissan rear cross-traffic alert system can ease these worries. The vigilant system lets you know when cars or other objects are approaching. Blind Spot Warning Systems When we're on the road, our greatest dangers often rest in what is not visible to us. Sometimes, objects get in our blind spots, and we cannot see them. The blind-spot warning system assures you have eyes everywhere, even in the back of your head. If a vehicle gets in your blind spot, you'll hear a helpful chime. Then, intelligent blind spot intervention can step in with a brake-and-guide system. Lane Departure Signals Perhaps you're tired and heavy-lidded or maybe you're just distracted. Drifting out of your lane can quickly cause a crash catastrophe. Stop this preventable emergency with the help of Nissan's lane departure warning system, where you'll benefit from an alert when you unintentionally drift. The intelligent lane intervention system can guide you and help you stay in your lane. Headlight Help The LED projector headlights already offer some very useful aid when you encounter dark or murky conditions. Add in high beam assist that automatically keeps your glaring beams out of the eyes of oncoming traffic, and you've got safeguards for everyone on the road. Collision Warnings With an intelligent system that monitors two vehicles ahead of you as well as your own distance and speed, you have an even better layer of protection. If a forward collision appears imminent, you'll receive a warning to slow down. Advanced Air Bags Imagine airbags that can shield you from front collisions, rear collisions, side collisions, and can even provide added protection for your head. Now imagine these lifesavers adjust with you and only inflate fully in the most severe crashes. With Nissan's fully stocked airbag system, imagine no more. Make safety a top priority. Browse our Nissan cars for sale at DARCARS Nissan of College Park or get to know the Nissan Sentra or Nissan Rogue, which were both featured as a top safety pick for 2022!

Heading out on the road for the first time is an exciting thing, but new drivers might also be feeling a little intimidated. But just like any other skill, driving is all about knowing the right skills and when to use them. Here are some tips that anyone new to the road in College Park, MD, can use to stay safe as they're gaining experience as a driver. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Ready Being an attentive driver starts before you even head out onto the road. You'll want to go through your pre-trip checklist to ensure you're ready to go before starting your engine. Adjusting your mirrors to have a clear view behind the vehicle and buckling your seat belt are some of the initial steps you'll need to take. Maintain a Safe Speed A majority of accidents are caused by vehicles traveling too fast. Your vehicle is harder to keep in control when it starts moving at high speeds. That makes obeying posted speed limits and keeping your vehicle at a reasonable speed even more important when you're still a beginner behind the wheel. Minimize Distractions Distracted driving is another cause of mishaps on the road. To eliminate one of the biggest distractions, stow your phone away when you're in the driver's seat, and pull over if you need to use it for an emergency. You should also minimize distractions from loud music or conversation in your cabin. Leave Space for Other Vehicles Following other vehicles too closely reduces the time that you have to react if they turn or stop short ahead of you. Leave a minimum of two full car lengths between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you to ensure you have time to react to changing situations. Make Use of Your Indicators Signaling your intent to turn to drivers behind you gives them time to adjust accordingly to minimize the risk of an accident. Get familiar with how to signal for a left or right turn and then use those signals a few seconds before turning so that other drivers have ample time to see what you're doing. Ride with an Experienced Driver There's always more to learn as a driver, so if you know someone who's been driving for a while, ask them to come for a ride with you. They'll be able to give you advice they've learned through their experience that can benefit you as well. Keep Up on Your Vehicle's Maintenance You need your vehicle to be as ready for the road ahead as you are, so make sure you're keeping up with your service schedule so that every component of your vehicle is working correctly. Take your vehicle to an experienced mechanic regularly to ensure that any issues that need to be addressed are taken care of. Our service department's expertise and knowledge will help you keep your vehicle in great shape throughout your journey as a driver. Come see us at DARCARS Nissan of College Park for an inspection, and we'll make sure that you're ready for the road! If you are a new driver, we also suggest checking out our other automotive tips & tricks. The better informed you are about your car, the safer you will be in a time of need.

If you require a collision repair, it's essential to prepare ahead for the next steps. When you consult with your local Nissan dealer in College Park, MD, it's necessary to get familiar with your vehicle's damage and the various options available to get the most from your Nissan collision experts. Assess the Damage to Your Vehicle It's vital to assess your vehicle following an accident to determine the extent of the damage and the potential costs. If the collision is minor, you may notice a small dent, scratches, and chipped paintwork. When there is more extensive damage, you'll want to note which parts and sections of your car have been impacted, so that you can explain these details to your Nissan certified technician. While you may notice a few key areas in need of repair, a certified professional can perform a more thorough assessment and determine the extent of repairs and replacement parts required. Get Familiar With Your Insurance Coverage Consult with an insurance professional to determine which coverage is best for your car and budget. When you invest in collision insurance, you'll have the benefit of having more repairs and services covered, which could result in significant savings. If you're considering the option of increasing your coverage, your Nissan expert can review various options, including the premium and policy that's affordable and fits your driving needs. Once you decide to increase your car insurance to include collision coverage, you can rest assured that your Nissan technician can perform all the repairs and replacements needed at a low or no cost. Consult with a Professional Technician Your Nissan technician will provide a comprehensive assessment of your vehicle, including recommendations on repairing damages following a collision. If one or more parts require replacement, your Nissan expert will source authentic, certified parts compatible with the make and model of your vehicle. When a certified technician repairs your vehicle, you can rest assured that your car will receive the best service and repairs for top performance. If there are several options to consider for your vehicle's repairs, your Nissan expert will provide which options are best suited for your car and budget. Contact Roadside Assistance Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week so that you can access urgent towing services and repairs following a serious collision. Your Nissan specialist can offer immediate assistance, so you can find the nearest service center and consult with a Nissan technician on the required repairs needed. When you prepare for your next road trip, be familiar with your vehicle, insurance protection, and emergency assistance. We guarantee your Nissan will receive the best services from our certified experts. Our DARCARS Nissan Collison Center will be here to help take care of the damages when you need us. You can always schedule your service online, so be sure to save that link for quick access when you need it!

A car tool kit can be beneficial, especially in unprecedented times or emergencies. If you have the right tool available, you can temporarily repair a problem long enough to reach our service center in College Park, MD. A good tool kit needs a variety of useful implements, and these are our recommendations. Pliers Pliers are perfect when you need to reach and manipulate a component. You may need to work on something that is just too deep in the engine to reach or in a narrow space that your fingers can’t fit into. We recommend having three different pliers, needle-nose, heavy-grooved, and wire-cutting in your toolkit. Multi-Headed Screwdriver Almost all of the parts in your car are held together with screws. A multi-headed screwdriver is just the tool if you need to tighten a screw or remove a part that's screwed in place. It's essential to also choose a screwdriver with magnetized heads, as it's very easy to drop and lose a screw especially if you are working in a confirmed space. Jumper Cables One of the worst situations is being stranded on a deserted highway with a dead battery. The good Samaritan who stops to help you may not have jumper cables, as not every motorist has them. If you have a good set of cables in your trunk, they can mean the difference between jump-starting your car and abandoning your car while you go and search for a new battery. Tow Strap A tow strap is made from extremely strong fabric and can help to tow a car. In the unlikely event that your Nissan needs a tow, this strap can save you the cost of a tow truck if there is another car available to tow you. Check your car manual before you attach the strap, as every car has tow points that will allow you to tow safely. Adjustable Wrench This open-end wrench is an essential tool, and it will allow you to unfasten any size head, nut, or bolt in your car. This wrench also saves you space in your toolkit as you have one wrench instead of a multitude of different sized wrenches. The only difficulty is the heavy head of the wrench can be difficult to maneuver in a confined space. Tire Sealer and Inflator A blowout can leave you stranded, especially if you don't have a good spare tire. This useful gadget will temporarily seal the leak and reinflate your tire. The sealer is not a replacement for a new tire, but it will allow you to get back on the road again. A good tool kit can save you a lot of stress and time by allowing you to get your car moving again. Schedule a service appointment with us at DARCARS Nissan of College Park anytime. Our technicians will speedily make the temporary repair a permanent one.

When you first purchase your car at the Nissan dealership, your salesperson might advise you to come back every year for your car safety inspection. But is it essential to do this so often? And does it have to be the dealership, or can you go to any mechanic? Let’s explore how frequently you need to have your car seen by a professional technician and why going to your local dealer is the best choice. Recommended Inspection Schedule Most mechanics advise that you come to see them once every twelve months if you drive less than 15,000 miles per year. If you have a long commute or regularly take road trips and therefore exceed this mileage, you should visit the dealership more often. The following milestones are recommended: 15,000 miles, 30,000 miles, 60,000 miles, and 90,000 miles. This frequency of service ensures that there are no safety issues with your car. Sometimes, you will need to come see us outside of these times, particularly if your vehicle is displaying signs of a problem. These could include the warning lights coming on, a strange noise or smell, or a change in the way your car drives. Don't delay seeing your dealer at the first indication of an issue, since the problem could otherwise spiral out of control and cause further damage. Should I Go to my Local Nissan Dealer? Now you know how often you need to have your vehicle looked at, you might wonder if you can go to any mechanic. But in most cases, sticking to a manufacturer-approved dealer is the best choice. The technicians working at such a service center are highly trained and specialized. They will have the correct information, spare parts, and tools to guarantee a high-quality service. Aside from keeping you and your family safe, your regular inspection with a certified dealer like DARCARS Nissan of College Park also serves to keep your vehicle in good condition. If you're interested in selling it and upgrading to a newer version, later on, you should always choose your local dealership for service and meticulously record your visits. This could increase the price you can charge for your Nissan. Dealership Amenities Make Your Visit a Pleasure Having your car serviced doesn't have to be a pain. In fact, the amenities at your dealership can make the process pleasant. If you're able to take your car to us yourself, we can offer you free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee in our waiting area. For customers who are too busy, we offer a shuttle service that allows you to keep to your normal schedule while your car is being repaired. You should have your Nissan serviced once a year or every 15,000 miles you drive. This can save you a lot of hassle later on and help you retain the value of your vehicle, so you can sell it for top dollar when you're ready to upgrade. Knowing the best ways to take care of your car will ultimately save you money and many unwanted headaches. Our goal at our DARCARS Nissan service center is to make all of the information about caring for your vehicle easy and accessible. If you wish to learn more tips & tricks, check out our blogs that will help simplify your car maintenance and upkeep in College Park, MD.

If it's time to get a new vehicle, you may be wondering where to even start. You can try your luck with a private seller, or you can head straight to your local Nissan dealership like DARCARS Nissan of College Park. Here are a few reasons why buying your vehicle from your dealer is the best choice you can make. You'll Talk to the Experts When you buy your car from your dealer, one of the best things about the process is that you'll be speaking to people who have worked with this specific brand of car for years. They know everything there is to know about Nissan models and will answer any questions you have as they guide you towards the perfect vehicle. Independent sellers aren't often experts in the vehicles they're selling, which means you wouldn't be getting the same level of personalized services that you would at your dealership. You Can Trust the Quality of the Cars Buying from an independent seller often means putting a lot of blind faith in someone. No rules or regulations require private sellers to provide you with quality cars, so you're not always getting what you pay for. You don't need to worry about that when you go to a dealership. Manufacturers and dealers want their customers to be just as proud of their vehicles as they are. You can count on your dealer's cars being high quality. Your Dealer Will Provide a Warranty Even though dealers and manufacturers make quality cars, it's impossible to account for every accident or fault that may occasionally come up. But their pride is exactly why they'll offer you a warranty when you purchase your vehicle. That way, if something does happen, then you'll have that warranty backing you up. You're most likely not going to get a warranty with a private seller. So, if you get into an accident or there's something wrong with the car, it's you and your wallet on the hook for covering all the following expenses. You Can Take Your Time at Your Dealership When you're buying your car from a private seller, you might feel rushed to make a decision. After all, if you don't buy the car, someone else might swoop in and take it! Unfortunately, that could result in you not making a clear decision and making a purchase you regret later. At a dealership, you'll be much more relaxed. You can take your time, and if you're having trouble choosing a vehicle, most dealerships will let you take a day or two to mull things over. This allows you to make better choices and feel certain about the car you’re buying. Even though purchasing a new vehicle is exciting, the process can also be stressful and confusing. But you can eliminate the stressful parts of buying a car by visiting your local dealership. So, if you're ready to start shopping, head down to DARCARS Nissan of College Park, where our friendly sales team will help you find the perfect car for you!

Winter is a beautiful time of year in many ways, but it also brings many risks for drivers. From icy temperatures to slippery snow, getting around in winter can be worrisome for any driver, especially in areas like College Park, where temperatures can get very low. Here are some driving tips to help you navigate the wintry landscapes of Maryland. Slow it Down When icy conditions arrive, and snow starts to fall, your braking times and distances can massively increase. Reducing your average speed will help you compensate for this change and slow down and stop at traffic lights and hazards. Keep Your Distance It's always a good idea to keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you, but this is especially important in winter. If the car in front skids or comes to a sudden stop, you'll need that extra distance to help you brake safely and avoid a rear-end collision. Consider Winter Tires If a lot of snow is expected to fall, it's usually best to get winter tires fitted to your vehicle. These tires offer superior traction and better control for snowy roads, giving you more confidence and peace of mind behind the wheel. Avoid Distractions Distractions are a significant issue for drivers throughout the year, and it's so easy to let yourself lose focus by looking at your phone or adjusting your car radio. Keep these distractions to an absolute minimum in winter to ensure that your attention stays on the road at all times. Be Aware and Alert Another top tip for safe winter driving is to make sure you're aware and alert of your surroundings at all times. There are higher risks of sudden skids on snowy roads, and visibility can be a problem too. You have to stay focused and alert, ready to respond to any hazards as they arrive. Pack the Essentials If you're planning a long trip, especially out in rural areas, it helps to have some emergency supplies if your car gets stuck in the snow or breaks down. Pack a snow shovel, a bag of salt, a tow strap, and any other vital items you might need. Handling a Skid Even if you drive as carefully as possible, there may come a time when your vehicle starts to slip and skid. If this happens, try not to panic and avoid slamming down on the brakes unless you're inches away from hitting something. Instead, ease gently off the gas and turn into the skid to help your vehicle regain its traction. Driving in winter can be a challenge, but these tips can help you get safely to your destination. It also helps to have a high-quality car with great tires and intelligent safety features. We suggest learning about the 2021 Nissan Rogue if safety is on the top of your list of features for a new car. Contact us at DARCARS Nissan of College Park today if you have any questions. We're here to help you stay safe on the roads this winter!

The days of phoning and driving around to get quality auto services and repairs are over. Your local DARCARS Nissan dealer in College Park, MD, offers services, all under one roof, to make maintaining your car easy and hassle-free. We are your one-stop shop for all your automobile needs. Best of all, you can book an appointment online too! Oil Changes Oil changes depend on more than just the recommended 5,000 miles or six-month intervals. You have to keep your driving habits, road conditions, temperature, and the type of vehicle you drive in mind. It is also essential to use the proper oil specifically designed for your vehicle to ensure that it performs at its best. Your owner's manual has all the information you need on the recommended oil and oil changes for your vehicle. Feel free to ask questions about this with one of our technicians to help you make an informed choice on the type of oil and oil change intervals for your specific vehicle. We're always glad to help. Brake Service & Repair Regular brake services are vital to ensure your safety on the road. The various brake components have different lifespans. Generally, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, and rotors can last twice that long, but yet again, it depends on your driving habits and the road conditions. Regular services will help us spot and repair problems before they become expensive repairs. Our service center is equipped to cover all your brake requirements, from inspections and fluid checks to brake pad replacements. Our certified technicians will do a thorough brake system inspection of all the components and replace or repair parts if necessary. Tire Service & Rotations Getting your car's tires rotated at regular intervals not only makes for a smoother ride but also saves you money in the long run. Routine tire rotations make your vehicle more fuel-efficient, increase even tread wear and traction, and extend the life of your tires. Our tire center is equipped with the latest technology. Our tire experts will inspect your vehicle's tires, ensure they are inflated to the correct pressure and perform a tire rotation to ensure that your tires are in good condition. Collision Repair & Body Shop Our DARCARS Collision Center has cutting-edge equipment with advanced technology, and our technicians are specifically trained to fix any vehicle damage, from tiny scratches and dents to major repairs. We believe in looking after the environment, and the paints and materials we use are environmentally friendly. If your vehicle needs to be towed, we will make the necessary arrangements. We will do an assessment and cost estimate free of charge, and while we repair your car, we also offer new rental vehicles and a complimentary shuttle service. Talk to the experts. We will supply you with superb auto repairs to ensure your Nissan stays in excellent running condition. Our trained team is here to help you keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Be sure to get started by scheduling your service online now!

Purchasing your new Nissan is exciting, but before you can come to pick up your vehicle at the dealership in College Park, MD, you'll have to work out a car financing deal. Fortunately, this is not a complicated process, and if you go about it the right way, you'll receive a great offer. Here are some of the best strategies you can use to get the best deal you can. Getting Great Car Financing Deals You can receive the best car financing deals directly from your dealership in your local area, so you don't have to deal with multiple parties or painstakingly search for a lender. To help us provide you with the best offer, be sure you know what kind of car you want and what you can afford to pay. It also helps if you have a down payment ready, as it can significantly improve your chances of getting a great deal. Know What You Want and Need Before you can get a great financing deal, you'll need to know what that means to you and your budget. Have a look at your personal finances and figure out how much money you'd like to spend on your car payment each month. Then, you can look at your credit score to see what kind of deal you are likely to receive. Remember that several factors will influence your interest rate, including your credit history, your current employment status, and your down payment. When you've found out how much you're willing to spend, you can browse the vehicles on your local dealership's website. The more familiar you are with what kind of car you'd like, the more easily and quickly your customer service representative will be able to help you find an excellent deal. Get in Touch with Your Local Dealership Although you can apply directly on the website, it might be worth getting in touch with your dealership and speaking to someone in person. This is especially the case if you are new to financing and have never purchased a car before or had issues with your credit history in the past. At DARCARS Nissan of College Park, we are passionate about helping all of our customers, so we'll be happy to find a suitable deal for you, even if you have been turned down at other places. If you're ready to get started with accessing the best finance deal for you, then don't hesitate to stop by DARCARS Nissan of College Park to speak to one of our finance experts today! We look forward to serving you.