by L Baures | Apr 14, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
My phone is ringing, caller ID says Beulah, WY
Just one of the numbers they call from
Last week, I was idly sitting as a passenger during a long road trip, admiring the beautiful Wyoming scenery. My phone rang, so I looked at the screen to see who was calling. It was a number, that was apparently from Beulah, WY. (Telemarketing firms try to use several different ‘local’ numbers to trick you into answering the call). That was their first mistake. Fortunately for me, I know that Beulah is a very small rural town in Wyoming (population of around 73 people) that I have no connection with.
At this point, I knew it was highly likely the call was going to be a telemarketer. I might add that I do also have an app provided for free by my cell provider that tries to weed out these calls or at least identify them as telemarketers. Somehow this call slipped through the net. Knowing what the call was likely to be about vehicle warranty, I decided to answer anyway, and go through the process so I can pass on the information.
They told me my warranty was about to expire!
First, of, they knew my name, and wanted me to confirm this by asking, “Is this Lauren?” To which I replied, “yes.” They then went on to confirm which vehicle I was driving and I how many miles were on it. After confirming this information with them, I was then transferred to another person. This person also asked the same questions before transferring me to another person. The third person then asked me questions relating to the condition of the vehicle, such as, “is the check engine light on”, and something along the lines of, is it serviced regularly? Of course, I told them my vehicle is in perfect condition and maintenance is all up to date. I believe I was then transferred back to person no. 2.
This person then began to describe all the components that would be covered under the top package that they offer. It sounded like he was reading from a generic list of parts (some of which, weren’t even relevant to my particular car) but it sure sounded like a lot of ‘components’ were covered.
Person no. 2 then tried to tell me my vehicle warranty expired that day!
“What? It expires TODAY?” I exclaimed, “no it doesn’t.” How could they possibly know this information? He then backtracked and changed it to, “soon.” Anyway, I’m about 18 mins into this call, and I wanted to know exactly who was calling me, so I asked, “What is the name of your company?” I got a rehearsed reply of a very generic ‘company name’ that makes you think it may somehow be related to your dealer. He very quickly tried to change the subject and get back to selling me this extended warranty for my vehicle.
Getting agitated by his sales pitch at this point I decided to tell him that I wanted to put a lot of aftermarket parts on my vehicle (knowing this would void any warranty). He told me that was fine.
Now I know they just want money
He never mentioned that if I put aftermarket performance parts on my vehicle it would potentially void any warranty or have a claim denied. Thankfully I have seen this happen and know better. Anyway, I can’t shake him off with that, so now I want to know the price. After another couple of sales pitches. Mainly about the benefits of this package and scaring me into thinking my car is about to fall apart tomorrow, I got a price. It was presented to me as monthly payment plans with deposits. It was also presented extremely fast and followed by a question. I had no time to do the calculations in my head, so I replied with, “How much if I pay all in cash today?” The answer was somewhere around $4000. I said, “I can’t afford that, do you have a discount?”
I was transferred again
This time, I knew what was coming. They thought they had me and it was time for the hard sell. They asked if I was loyal to the brand of vehicle I was driving and if I/or any of my family, was in active military service or veteran. To which I replied yes to one and no to the other. They then told me, because I qualified for these discounts, the price is now around $2000, would I like to pay by Visa or MasterCard?
I said, “Ok, thank you, I’d like to shop around for the best deal”. The reply to that is, I can’t shop around because if I hang up the call, my car might break and I’d then be submitting a fraudulent claim. WHAT!? I said, “oh I’d never do that, I’m a good person, what is your direct number?” To which I was told, there isn’t one, I have to make a decision now or never. I was also told I’d save money versus buying from a dealer because I wouldn’t have to pay sales tax. This is not true.
Click.Goodbye
22 minutes into the call, I was now exhausted and had no intention of buying their warranty, however, had discovered the hard sell that these companies inflict on people who are none the wiser. Whilst it may or may not have been a good extended warranty, the problem for me is when I’m lied to, harassed and almost forced to give credit/debit card information. My phone has since been ringing incessantly since that call. They don’t stop! No doubt I’ll be receiving threatening letters in the mail sometime soon too. I also decided to do a search for the company name they gave me.
Can’t find any information on this ‘so-called’ company
They called me back the next day, and the day after, and I’m still getting daily calls. I decided to answer one more time to try and get a company name. Between 2 different people I got, ‘vehicle service dept’, ‘vehicle service center’, ‘vehicle protection network’ and ‘vehicle services’. As I was on the phone, I was also doing a search online for the names they were giving me. Again, nothing came up. I confronted them about this, “I’m not finding your company online, where are you based out of?” She then hung up on me!
I haven’t figured out how to stop these calls yet. I’m on the ‘do not call’ registry and I have told them not to call me. They still call.
If you do want an extended warranty plan/service contract
Know that Fremont Motors will never call you to sell an extended warranty or service contract over the phone. I haven’t heard of a manufacturer calling either. They may send one letter once in a while, but it won’t be a threatening one. It’ll be on pretty letterhead with a company logo. There are good plans out there, and you can always contact your local dealer to find out more and even sit down and talk about the right one for your needs. Some plans are non-refundable and lock you in. Dealership plans can be canceled at any time.
Not sure when your warranty really does expire? Call your preferred dealership directly or check your owners manual.
Update: 7/10/2019
AT&T expands Call Protect Service.
“The FCC has been a tremendous partner in the war on robocalls,” said Joan Marsh, executive vice president of regulatory & state external affairs for AT&T Communications.
“The Commission’s recent action builds on a years-long effort to enable broader adoption of call-blocking tools and allow providers to better protect their customers and networks.”
https://about.att.com/story/2019/att_call_protect.html
by L Baures | Apr 10, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Volkswagen Tiguan Vs Atlas
2018 Atlas and Tiguan Photo: VW
It’s been a while since Volkswagen has had a decent family sized vehicle for more than 5 people. In fact, probably since the days of flower power, and peace signs ie. the Volkswagen bus. Now, some 40 years later, come the 2018 model year Tiguan and the Atlas (or perhaps the Atlas-t). Both are available with VW’s All Wheel Drive system called 4-Motion. The Atlas has the 3rd-row seating as standard and the Tiguan has optional 3rd-row seating (only available on AWD models). Both cars can seat up to 7 people, which one do you choose?
| Tiguan AWD | Atlas AWD | |
|---|
| Vehicle Class | Compact SUV | Mid-size SUV | |
| Engine | 2.0 liter turbo | 3.6 liter V-6 | |
| Horsepower | 184hp | 276hp | |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto | |
| Safety | IIHS Top Safety Pick | IIHS Top Safety Pick | |
| Fuel Economy (EPA rating) Combined | 23 mpg | 19mpg | |
| 3rd row (7 seats) | Optional | Yes | |
Warranty
Basic & Powertrain | 6 years or 72, 000 miles
| 6 years or 72,000 miles | |
Starting price
MSRP | $25,895 ($500 extra for 3rd-row) | $37,750 | |
Atlas is more planted
2018 Volkswagen Atlas Photo: VW
The Atlas is about 13″ longer than the new Tiguan. It’s also wider, marginally higher, and of course, that means it’s heavier. Also available with the smaller engine (the 2.0-liter turbo in FWD configuration only) however the 3.6 liter V-6 that comes standard in the AWD model is easily justifiable given the extra weight. With more weight though, means less fuel economy, although it’s not terrible. The Atlas EPA rating as listed above is 19 mpg combined. On the highway, it’s rated at 23mpg. The extra weight means the SUV is solidly planted and stable at highway speeds. Also available with the 2nd row as captains chairs.
Both are child car seat friendly
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2018 Atlas 3rd-Row
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2nd row seat folding without having to remove car seat. Photo: VW
When it comes to the Tiguan vs Atlas, the extra room in the Atlas means a much more comfortable ride. Easier to get in and out of, for adults and children. Speaking of ease of access, the 2018 Atlas 2nd row seating, folds forward without having to remove a child car seat. This is ingenious if you have car seats in the 2nd row but need access to the 3rd-row for more children or adults. Hallelujah, you don’t need to uninstall/reinstall the car seat. Talking of child car seats, the Volkswagen Atlas and the Tiguan are both on the cars.com car seat check honor roll.
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2018 Atlas with some of the seats folded down. Photo: VW
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2018 Tiguan with some fo the seats folded. Photo: VW
Tiguan is more nimble
Because the Tiguan is smaller, it’s more nimble for tasks such as parking or driving around in town with tighter spaces. Garage fitment might be easier if you have a smaller sized garage or less room. The third row in the Tiguan is best suited for small children. With it being smaller and lighter, the Tiguan gets better fuel economy. The EPA rating for the 2018 AWD model is 23 mpg combined and 27 mpg on the highway.
2018 Tiguan SEL Premium in Habanera Orange Photo: VW
Technology
With the Atlas being a brand new model and the Tiguan a complete re-design for 2018, both models are loaded with technology. For easy smartphone integration, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on both models. Selectable driver modes are also in both models with modes such as ‘SNOW’, ‘SPORT’ and “OFF-ROAD’.
Which One?
Both vehicles are very similar other than size. Design between the two isn’t all that different. If your priority is about having a 3rd row AND a ton of cargo space then the Atlas is the winner. If you feel like you might not need that 3rd row often (or would be for children only) but prefer to have the nimbleness of getting around a lower price tag, and better fuel economy, then it’s the Tiguan. A fully loaded top trim line (SEL Premium) Tiguan is about the same price as a base model Atlas).
If you’d like more information on Volkswagen’s, feel free to contact Fremont Volkswagen in Casper, Wyoming.
Volkaswgan Tiguan Vs GMC Terrain
Tiguan R-Line
by L Baures | Apr 10, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
What is a LATCH system?
The LATCH system is a child restraint system in cars used to attach car seats to the frame of the vehicle. It is the safest way to attach a car seat to the vehicle (due to there being less chance for it to be used incorrectly).
LATCH System in a RAM Truck shows the metal bars are protruding from between the seat making it easier to fit a child car seat
The Law
Federal regulations (FMVSS 213 and 225) made it the law for most (not all) cars to have the Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren system (LATCH) after September 1st 2002. This effectively means 2003 model years or newer. Carseat.org states the vehicle requirements as,”Lower anchors for child restraints, each consisting of two rigid bars 6 mm in diameter and 25-50 mm long, are present in the vehicle seat bight (the crack between the seat back and seat cushion) in specified seating positions in all cars, minivans, and pick-up trucks”.
Vehicles exempt from having a LATCH system
Vehicles weighing more than 8500lbs (or buses over 10,000lbs) are exempt. It would seem that some Ford SuperDuty pickup trucks (F-250, F-350, F-450) do not have the LATCH system assuming they are over the weight (GVWR).
Some LATCH systems are easier to use than others.
So whilst the guidelines are clear on the dimensions that the bars have to be, they are mostly all the same size. What IS different though, is how far down in (the seat back and seat bottom) the bars are sunk. The part is called the seat bight. In some vehicles, the bars are clearly visible and stick out. Others, you may find yourself putting your hand in between the seat into what seems like a dark hole in the center of the earth aka oblivion. Searching blindly for a tiny little metal bar, you eventually find it but now… you have to do it all over again, this time with strap and metal clip from the car seat. Again blindly trying to figure out which way it clips-in (to the metal bar housed in oblivion).
Wikimedia LATCH photo: Tetris L
Space is also limited because don’t forget, that strap is still attached to the car seat which also limits your visibility and movement to about the equivalent of being stuck in a packed closet. In the dark. Not to mention a young child is probably screaming for a sucker (for the 10 millionth time) so no pressure to get this seat in or swapped out before you’re late.
Thankfully, there ARE some vehicles where the LATCH system is visible and easy to use (even for bulky convertible car seats).
Vehicles with good LATCH systems
Cars.com do some comprehensive testing with certified child passenger safety technicians. These technicians test over 65 vehicles. For 2016 and 17 model years vehicles, only 10 made the car seat check honor roll. Children in are recommended to be in car seats until they are around 9 years of age (varies by State). That is a loooooong time to be dealing with car seats, so making sure they fit right in the right car is an important decision.
Vehicles that made the top 10 on Cars.com’s honor roll list:
There are lots of other vehicles with easy to use LATCH systems. Find out what they are or want to find out how well your vehicle does? Check here.
To find out which car seats are the easiest to use, check out this article.
by L Baures | Apr 9, 2018 | Automotive News
New Wyoming Wildlife License Plates for 2019
Mule deer in Wyoming Photo: L Baures
Have you ever hit or nearly hit an antelope, deer, elk or even a moose on the WY roads?
Chances are, you probably have. Big game and wildlife is a big deal in Wyoming. The Wyoming Game and Fish Dept Annual report, states that the population of these big game animals is around;
- Pronghorn 425,000
- Mule deer, 409,000
- Whitetail deer 85,000
- Elk 105,000
- Moose is around 4,000
It’s no surprise that there has been around 6,000 vehicle and big game collisions within the last 3 years. Coming January of 2019 there will be the option to purchase Wyoming Wildlife Conservation plates, in an effort to reduce vehicle collisions with wildlife.
Wyoming Wildlife Plates
According to Wyoming Public Media, state legislator Stan Blake of Sweetwater County, WY, wants to help prevent vehicle collisions with wildlife. A collaborative effort with the wildlife conservation group, Muley Fanatic Foundation, assisted in getting support for house bill 0039 to pass. The bill describes how funds from the sale of the Wyoming wildlife plates will provide;
- Wildlife conservation efforts related to the transportation system
- Signage
- Wildlife corridors
- Wildlife crossings
- Game fences
WY Governor Matt Mead with the new Wildlife plate design
Wyoming wildlife plates will be available for personal vehicles in Wyoming. The plates will be on sale for $150, and a $50 yearly renewal fee. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the plates will go towards the improvements listed above. The Wyoming Department of Transport will be responsible for the design. According to the bill, the design will not need to have the Arabic numerals designating the county. It also says that unless 1000 plates sell before Jan 2025, the plates will cease production. The Muley Fanatic Foundation got over 2000 signatures in support of the plates.
Muley Fanatic Foundation
Joshua Coursey, MFF President/CEO of the Muley Fanatic Foundation, says, “The Muley Fanatic Foundation wants to offer a special thank you to Representative Blake for his unwavering support and steadfast determination to see this bill through the legislative process. We’d also like to recognize that the bill’s passage would not have been possible without the incredible public support – from phone calls, letters, and emails – our state lawmakers heard from the people of Wyoming in support of HB0039. Getting a bill passed, let alone during a fast-paced budget session is not an easy task. That being said, when the dust settled, a good idea is a good idea regardless. We are very pleased with the outcome and the tremendous benefit it will provide beyond our living years”
Picture from left to right is: Joey Faigl, MFF Chief Operating Officer, Wyoming Governor Matt Mead, Joshua Coursey, MFF President/CEO, Chris Steffen, MFF Director of Operations
Contributors
As well as the Muley Fanatic Foundation, several other organizations contributed to pledging support for the bill. Those were; Wyoming Wildlife Federation; Wyoming Stock Growers Association; Petroleum Association of Wyoming; Sweetwater County Commissioners; Wyoming Mining Association; Western Landowners Alliance; Wyoming Mining Natural Resource Foundation; Wyoming Trout Unlimited; Sweetwater County Enterprise Committee; Bowhunters of Wyoming; Wyoming Hunters and Anglers Alliance; Wyoming Backcountry Horsemen of America; County Commissioners Association; Wyoming Association of Municipalities; Wyoming Outdoor Council; The Nature Conservancy; Wyoming Federation of Union Sportsmen; Back Country Hunters and Anglers; Wyoming Wildlife Federation; Wyoming Wild Sheep Foundation; Yellowstone Country Bear Association; Wyoming Trout Unlimited; Wyoming Outfitters and Guides Association and the Wyoming Game and Fish.
The act is effective Jan 2019.
What do you think of the new Wyoming wildlife plates? Would you purchase them?
Update 12/27/18 – Wyoming wildlife plates do not allow personalized/prestige numbers/characters. Wyoming wildlife plate numbers are in numerical order.
Update 01/04/19- Here is what WYDOT posted on their website for the plate design. Added cost is $30 specialty plate fee and $150 to wildlife conservation making the total $180.
Wyoming wildlife plate application.
by L Baures | Apr 3, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Buying a used or pre-owned car or truck can be a daunting task. Especially if it’s the first or second biggest purchase you’ll make. We have compiled a list to help your decision making easier.
1. Is this vehicle ‘As-Is’ or certified pre-owned?
It’s important to know when buying a used or pre-owned vehicle, what kind of warranty it has. Fremont Motors in Wyoming and Nebraska actually has 3 different ‘classes’ of used vehicles. ‘As-Is’, Certified and Elite. Each used car and/or truck that comes through the doors is inspected and graded accordingly depending on condition, year and miles. This is should give you a good idea of the condition of the vehicle. ‘Elite’ pre-owned vehicles are the top rank, followed by ‘certified’, then AS-IS.
What is an ‘AS-IS’ Vehicle?
2. Has the car or truck ever been in a wreck?
This is very important to know if safety is a top priority. Vehicles that have been in a wreck may not have been rebuilt properly, sacrificing safety. According to carinsurance.com, Insurance and finance companies will also be less likely to finance or insure the vehicle if it has a salvage title. You can ask your salesperson or the dealership for a copy of the Autocheck/Carfax which will show if an accident was ever reported on the vehicle.
3. Can I see the Autocheck/Carfax
An Autocheck/carfax report not only shows if an accident has been reported on the vehicle but other information too. It will give you mileage reports, title information, history, liens, the number of owners and where the car/truck came from.
What is CarFax / Autocheck?
4. Has the car or truck been inspected by a trained technician?
Photo: Alexandra / München
Ask if the vehicle has been through the facilities shop and what kind of inspection was done? Was it a basic safety inspection or a rigorous multipoint inspection. If so, can you see the inspection report? Keep a record of the inspection sheet, should any issues arise in the future.
5. Does the vehicle have a warranty and if so, for how long?
Find out if the car or truck comes with a warranty included in the price. Some vehicles may come with a 3 month, 3,000-mile warranty (whatever comes sooner), whilst others may have the remainder of a factory warranty left. With various manufacturers offering different lengths of warranties, it’s important to find out the warranty for the specific vehicle you are looking at. It’s important to also what is covered under those warranties, especially electrical components. If the vehicle you fell in love with doesn’t have such a great warranty, ask if there are extended warranties or service plans available to purchase.
Understanding New Vehicle Warranties
6. Is roadside assistance included?
Ask if there is roadside assistance included with the vehicle purchase. This could be important in states such as
Wyoming where help may not be across the road. Many manufacturers will offer complimentary roadside assistance for the duration of the powertrain warranty. Check to make sure this is still valid with a change of ownership. If no roadside cover is included from the manufacturer, check if there is coverage from the dealer. Fremont Motors offers 1 year of complimentary roadside assistance with every used car/truck purchase.
7. Are oil changes and/or tire rotations included?
Ask if the dealership or facility offers complimentary oil changes with used/pre-owned vehicles.Also if there are any mileage limitations on this. Fremont Motors offers 3 complimentary oil changes and 1 tire rotation for all used vehicle purchases within a year from purchase.
8. Are there any open recalls?
Recalls, unfortunately, seem to be commonplace nowadays. According to Consumer Affairs, “…unfixed recalls increased an average of more than 25%…”. They also state that “The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) does not have the authority to require used car dealers to disclose recalls or make recall repairs”. You can, however, ask the dealership to find out this for you or check for yourself on the NHTSA website. You can ask the salesperson for the VIN or find it on the vehicle door panel.
Check for recalls by VIN
9. How long can I test drive it for?
A quick 10-minute drive along the interstate may not tell you if its the right vehicle for you or not. You may want to test your car seats, whether it fits in your garage or how it does on a dirt road. Ask the dealership if they will allow you to do an extended test drive to really find out if it suits your needs or not.
10. Are there dealer fees?
Is there are ‘dealer fee’ or ‘doc fee’, if so how much is it and what does it cover? Some facilities may say there is no fee, but it is taken out of the sale profit of the vehicle. other dealers will tell you upfront, how much that fee is and what it is for. Most of the times, these fees are for admin paperwork, title and registration costs.
What is Fremont Care
Vallet, Mark. “5 Reasons to Avoid Salvage-Title Cars.” Carinsurance.com, 2 Feb. 2012
by L Baures | Apr 2, 2018 | Automotive News
General Motors introduces ‘Marketplace’
More and more companies such as Starbucks and McDonalds are offering to advance order products through their Apps. With the introduction of Apple CarPlay, AndroidAuto, MirrorLink and projection making it even easier to integrate smartphones with vehicles it is not surprising this has come.
Order coffee from your car
The Marketplace app in General Motors vehicles (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac’s) will mean that you can order and pay for items such as coffee and food ahead of time. Dinner and/or hotel reservations, find the nearest gas station with cheapest prices and more all whilst driving. GM said in their press release that the touchscreen system adheres to strict ‘industry distracted driving guidelines’. They go on to say that the system is designed for minimal manual interactions.
Photo: GM Media
When and what vehicles?
Rolling out in the next 12-18 months, General Motors said a separate data plan will not be required. The marketplace app will be added to existing 2017-2018 model year GMC, Chevrolet, Buick and Cadillac vehicles (with compatible infotainment systems). A ‘Shop’ section will be added offering General Motors specific offers such as maintenance coupons. They also say accessory deals will be included along with the ability to purchase Wi-Fi data.
Which brands?
So far, these are the brands accessible through the Marketplace app, however as time goes on, there will likely be more;
- GM
- Starbucks
- Dunkin’ Donuts
- Wingstop
- TGI Fridays
- Shell
- ExxonMobile
- Priceline.com
- Parkopedia
- Applebee’s
- IHOP
- Delivery.com
As well being able to get directions to gas stations, Shell will be offering the ability to pay for gas via the infotainment system.
Here’s the video General Motors posted in the press release:
What are your thoughts on the Marketplace feature?
What are your thoughts on this feature? It seems most of those businesses aren’t in Wyoming yet, but would you use them when traveling? For the business that is here, would you use this feature? Perhaps to order a coffee as you leave the house in the morning, skip the wait and save time? Are there other services you’d like to see included?
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