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
-
-
2018 Atlas 3rd-Row
-
-
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.
-
-
2018 Atlas with some of the seats folded down. Photo: VW
-
-
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 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 | Mar 26, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Auto insurance is difficult to understand sometimes. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and make sure you’re covered. Driving around showing off your brand new vehicle, only to get in a wreck would be a bad enough day. Finding out your vehicle isn’t insured would be an even worse day. Then get a ticket, a really really bad day!
How long do you have to get auto insurance?
So how soon after a vehicle purchase in Wyoming, do you need to get your new vehicle insured? If you don’t already have an auto insurance policy, you’ll need one right away. If you are trading vehicles it depends on YOUR insurance policy. Some insurance providers may have a ‘grace’ period for you change over. Some may be 72hrs and others maybe 30 days. Check with whoever you are insured with. It’s a good idea to get a quote on the new vehicle you are planning purchasing anyway as the price may be very different from your current vehicle. The other advantage to doing this is that your insurance company should then have the quote handy. Thus making the transition faster and smoother for when you do get your new vehicle.
We contacted Leigh Cripe, an insurance agent for State Farm in Wyoming. Here’s what she said;
- “Most states require drivers to have auto insurance. So first, know what is required by the state and lender if you plan to finance your purchase. Contact your local insurance agent to get you started on what is required.
- If you’re at a dealership getting your very first auto and have never had an auto insurance policy, you’ll need to get coverage first to finish the deal. Usually, you’ll need proof of insurance sent to the lender to satisfy their and state requirements before you can drive off the lot with your new auto.
- Typically you’ll need liability, collision and comprehensive coverage.
Liability helps pay for auto damage and injuries if you’re at fault. Collision pays to repair or replace your auto if you’re in an accident with another auto, hit an object, or roll your auto. Comprehensive coverage helps pay to repair or replace your auto if it’s damaged by something besides a collision, including; theft, fire, vandalism, or hitting an animal.
If you currently have auto insurance coverage on another auto, talking with your agent will help you determine what coverage is needed for your new auto”
It’s the law
Wyoming Title 31 states that, “…Proof of insurance shall be carried at all times in the insured vehicle and shall be open for inspection at all times when requested by any peace officer”.
For more information and a guide on auto insurance check out this page by the Wyoming Department of Insurance.
by L Baures | Mar 23, 2018 | Trusted Auto Pros
Teaming up in the name of science
If you live or have lived in Casper, Wyoming and a have a kid or two or five, you’ll likely have heard about The Science Zone. According to VisitCasper, The Science Zone is, “…the ultimate playground with an educational twist”. Fremont Volkswagen of Casper has recently teamed up with The Science Zone by donating the use of a brand new 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. This enables the Science Zone to continue their outreach programs throughout the Natrona County region. They will be using the SUV to travel to schools. Bringing science right to the doorstep of children in the area.
“As The Science Zone moves into the future of education and student engagement, we recognize Fremont Volkswagen as an indispensable partner who is LITERALLY propelling us forward. This partnership results in fuel-efficient and reliable transportation by which the educators from The Science Zone continue the educational outreach” says Jason DeWitt, Development Director at The Science Zone.
Jr Paleontology Academy at the Science Zone
Corey Rissler, General Manager of the Fremont Volkswagen dealership, believes aiding future education and science in the community is incredibly important. He does not think budget cuts in the school systems should impact the future success of our next generation by limiting the resources available to them. Inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers is invaluable and necessary. It is our pleasure to help those who want to help our youth move forward and continue their mission!
The ‘Science-Zone-Mobile’ : a Volkswagen Tiguan
Jason Dewitt, Development Director of The Science Zone and Corey Rissler, General Manager of Fremont Volkswagen stand in front of a VW Tiguan. The new ‘Science-Zone-Mobile’.
The Volkswagen Tiguan is an AWD midsize SUV that has won a plethora of awards for the brand new design. Just one of those awards is, cars.com ‘SUV of the year 2017‘. With 73.5 cu.ft of cargo space available, there’s plenty room for supplies. The car also features the latest in technology with Apple CarPlay, AndroidAuto and available safety features such as;
- Adaptive Cruise Control,
- Forward Collision Warning,
- Blind Spot Monitor,
- Autonomous Emergency Braking,
- Lane Assist,
- Pedestrian Monitoring,
- Front and rear Park Distance Control (Park Pilot) w/rear Maneuver Braking.
Executive Director of The Science Zone, Steven Schnell says, “We’re incredibly excited and grateful for the ability to send our educators into our community in our new science-zone- mobile! The opportunity this affords us is immense and will certainly help bolster our brand and name recognition across our region, all the while allowing our educators to serve students at schools and events far better.”
The Science Zone
7-year-old Skye having fun and learning at the Science Zone
Jason Dewitt continues, “To an undeniable degree, the future of The Science Zone is in the hands of our business partners and corporate donors. Fremont Volkswagen has proven their commitment to The Science Zone and those who enjoy our services. They understand they have a stake in the education and training of our future workforce”.
The Science Zone has operated in different locations and in different capacities, but over those twenty years, has never lost focus of our mission to, “…inspire the mind, to delight the senses and to ignite a passion for the technical arts and sciences.” We specialize in the engagement of young inventors, innovators, and visionaries. Our dedicated and professional staff make it their personal goal to recognize and cultivate the potential greatness of every person who is lucky enough to walk through our doors. Our driving force is our board who is made up of professionals from education, marketing, healthcare, creative arts, and skilled trades.
7-yr-old Skye pictured to the left enjoys her time with The Science Zone ‘playing’ and learning at the same time. For more information on The Science Zone, check out their page here, and more information on the Tiguan, contact Fremont Motors Volkswagen, Casper.
Which Volkswagen, Tiguan or Atlas?
Recent Comments