Hyundai Motor America had a good 2021. Riding the wave of the post-pandemic surge in car sales, the Korean-based auto manufacturer enjoyed a 19 percent year-over-year increase of American auto sales. Out of 738,081 Hyundai vehicles sold in 2021, Americans showed a preference for the Tucson, Elantra and Santa Fe, which were the top-selling Hyundai models of that year.

Hyundai’s present-day popularity comes after years of striving to redefine their own brand. No longer saddled with a collective image of cheap unreliability, Hyundai has made its mark in today’s competitive and versatile auto market.

Hyundai’s Difficult Beginnings

Although the carmaker has been around since 1967, Hyundai didn’t make its American debut until 1986 when it launched the Excel. Unfortunately, the subcompact car didn’t excel at much other than affordability. It had a reputation for lacking quality and reliability.

In 1991, Hyundai reluctantly recalled almost 900,000 Excel models based on faulty engine parts that could have led to a fire. Drivers also reported stalling and other drivability issues. After the Excel fiasco, Hyundai’s auto sales and image continued to plunge until 1988 when the manufacturer acquired Kia, beginning their redemptive journey toward success.

To stay afloat while figuring out a new and improved strategy, Hyundai refocused their efforts on manufacturing high-quality vehicles. In the late 1990s, Hyundai and Kia introduced a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which covered issues with a vehicle’s engine and transmission. Consequently, auto sales and consumer attitudes shifted upward, allowing Hyundai plenty of time to make long-term improvements to its vehicles.  

Nowadays, Hyundai produces a wide range of Hyundai and Kia vehicles—from sedans and hatchbacks to crossover SUVs and pickup trucks, catering to almost every demographic. Regardless of which make and model you choose as your next vehicle, you can rest assured it’ll embody a balanced mix of affordability, style and practicality.

Why Choose Hyundai

Apart from the versatility in models and designs, there are several other benefits to driving a vehicle manufactured by Hyundai. These benefits include:

• The best warranty standard on the market, including a 10-year/100k-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/80k-mile federal emission defect and performance warranty on new cars.
• Hyundai has gained a reputation as one of the safest vehicles to drive according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The top models to get near-perfect scores are the Palisade, the Sonata and the Kia Forte.
• Hyundai is passionate about philanthropy and bettering the community. The Hyundai Hope on Wheels organization has donated over 200 million dollars to pediatric cancer research since 1998.
• If you’re interested in driving an alternative-fuel vehicle, Hyundai offers several hybrid and electric versions of their top-selling models, including the Kona, the Tucson and the Elantra.

Most Popular Hyundai and Kia Models in the U.S.

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson is a compact crossover SUV that has been around since 2004. It’s considered one of the most reliable SUVs and is currently the top-selling Hyundai SUV model.

Hyundai Sonata

The Sonata is a mid-size car known for its fuel efficiency, elegant interior design and smooth riding experience. The Sonata has been manufactured since 1985 and has undergone several improvements in performance and reliability over the decades.

Hyundai Palisade

The Palisade is one of the youngest members in the Hyundai family. This mid-size crossover SUV made its first appearance in 2018 but already earns high ratings for engine power, comfort and abundant cargo room.

Kia Forte

The compact Kia Forte is an excellent option for drivers looking for a reliable, no-frills vehicle. Despite its small size, the Forte boasts a large trunk and spacious cabin. It offers excellent fuel-economy for an affordable price.

Kia Soul 

Known for its unconventional boxy exterior, the Kia Soul offers much more than just a quirky look. The Soul is a subcompact SUV that boasts plenty of cargo room, affordability and great safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and collision-avoidance assistance.

Kia Optima

The Kia Optima is a mid-size car offering an abundance of benefits, including an excellent safety score, smooth ride, large trunk and rich infotainment system.

Explore Affordable Pre-Owned Hyundai and Kia Models at Easterns Automotive

Are you in Maryland, Virginia or the DMV and looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle? Consider getting your next car from Easterns Automotive. We offer a diverse inventory of pre-owned Hyundai and Kia models, as well as a variety of other makes and models to meet your unique needs.

We’ll never sell you a vehicle unless it’s passed our rigorous safety inspection. When you purchase from Easterns Automotive, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle is certified, reasonably priced and ready to serve you and your family for years to come.

To inquire about our inventory or schedule a test drive of a pre-owned vehicles, call (877) 867-0641 or visit one of our dealerships.

The art of haggling isn’t something most Americans are particularly keen on. While many countries consider relentless bargaining fair game, American consumers and traditional retail businesses are accustomed to clear pricing expectations.

However, there are exceptions, especially on expensive pre-owned products with variable quality, like used cars. If you’ve ever purchased a pre-owned car, chances are good you were able to work out a more favorable deal than the vehicle’s original price.

Some people like to purchase brand-new cars for their perceived reliability (generous warranties, no murky history or damage from accidents, etc.). However, today’s post-pandemic auto market has priced many auto shoppers out of the new car market.

Stalls in auto production during the COVID-19 pandemic and continuing supply chain struggles and parts shortages have caused a national shortage of many new vehicles. As a result, many drivers are switching gears and choosing to purchase pre-owned vehicles instead.

Shoppers looking for a great deal on a used car may benefit from doing plenty of research on their favorite makes and models and brushing up on their negotiation skills before setting foot in a dealership.

How to Negotiate a Better Price on a Pre-Owned Car

There is no blueprint to a successful car price negotiation. However, there are many things you can do before and during your visit to a dealership or when meeting with a private seller to maximize your chances of getting a good deal on a car that’s caught your eye.

Decide What Make and Model You Want

If you’re looking for a used car, take some time to establish what you’re looking for. Perhaps you already have a specific make and model in mind. If that’s not the case, ask yourself what you need in your next vehicle and how much you can afford to spend. Then, based on your determinations, look for vehicles that match your preferences. Some things to consider include:

• The size
• Fuel efficiency
• Safety and reliability
• Whether the vehicle will fit in your garage
• What you like and dislike about your current vehicle
• How you’ll use your new vehicle (commuter car, road trips, off roading, etc.)

Research Prices

Once you’ve decided on a vehicle, learn how much it’s worth. You can do this by going online and researching various dealership inventories and online used car retailers. Also, if you’re going to trade in your current vehicle, make sure to know how much it’s worth to get a fair offer.

DirectCarBuying.com, powered by Easterns Automotive Group, makes it easy for Washington DC and Baltimore car shoppers to maximize their current vehicle’s trade in value.

Avoid Becoming Car Poor

Unless you pay cash, you likely will need to take out a loan to finance your used car purchase. A monthly auto payment can put a significant strain on your finances. Make sure you know the limits of what you can afford when you start shopping.

Back Up Your Counteroffer with Facts

Negotiating a better price can only be successful if you can back up your counteroffer with facts. Get quotes for similar makes and models from other dealerships and use them as leverage in your negotiations.

Print any instant cash offer you may have gotten for your trade-in vehicle. If the dealership you’re interested in buying from tries to lowball you, you can show them tangible proof your current vehicle is worth more than what they’re offering.

Effective Communication Can Go a Long Way

Successful negotiations require effective communication. Here are some communication tips to help you get the upper hand while bargaining for your preferred used vehicle:

• Always remain courteous and respectful. Trying to play “tough” or using intimidation will discourage any salesperson from working with you.
• Negotiate thoughtfully. Write things down, ask questions and ask for clarification if something isn’t clear to you.
• Keep the conversation light and even humorous but remain calm, matter of fact and firm in your convictions.
• Know when to walk. Not every private seller or dealership is willing to negotiate prices on their used inventory. If you feel you’re getting nowhere in your negotiating, don’t be afraid to walk away and continue your search elsewhere.

Visit Easterns Automotive for a Pressure-Free Used Car Shopping Experience in DC, Maryland and Virginia

When you shop at Easterns, you won’t have to worry about haggling over a price. We make our vehicle prices as competitive and transparent as possible. If you’re looking for a certified and reasonably priced used car, be sure to browse our plentiful pre-owned inventory.

For more information or to schedule a test drive, call (888) 650-4775 or visit one of our dealership locations.

Electric cars, also known as electric vehicles or EVs, do not need oil to run. Owning an electric vehicle means you’ll never have to worry about scheduling oil changes the way you would for a traditional gasoline car with an internal combustion engine.

However, this doesn’t mean your electric car won’t need any maintenance at all. Are you thinking about buying an electric vehicle? Make sure you know the maintenance needs and costs that come along with owning one before you make your purchase.

Why Is Oil Not Required in Electric Cars?

A typical gasoline car relies on an internal combustion engine to run. The engine’s job is to convert gasoline and air into motion via pistons and a crankshaft, which is how you’re able to drive your car. A combustion engine is a complex machine and consists of intricate pieces. For these pieces to glide smoothly, the engine must be lubricated with oil. Regular oil changes ensure your car’s engine remains in good condition.

Since electric cars don’t use gas, they don’t need internal combustion engines to run. Electric cars rely on an electric motor and rechargeable batteries to move, which frees you from the necessity of regular oil changes.

How Does an Electric Car Work?

An electric car is powered by an electric motor which converts electrical currents into motion via a central rotor and a rotating magnetic field. Your EV uses energy stored in its rechargeable battery to power the motor.

People typically charge their EV batteries at public charging stations or at home by plugging a charging unit into a wall socket. EVs are quiet to drive and move along streets, roads and freeways without producing environmentally harmful emissions.

What Kind of Maintenance Does an Electric Car Require?

While EVs don’t need oil changes, there are several parts that will need regular maintenance.

Coolant

Your electric car’s battery produces heat while generating power. This means your vehicle needs a coolant to protect it from overheating. Make sure to keep the coolant levels for your battery consistently high to prevent overheating.

Cabin Air Filter

While your EV doesn’t produce gas emissions, you’ll still need to replace the cabin air filter to keep the air inside your car clean. Ideally, your cabin air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Battery System Replacement

Your electric car’s battery system has limited efficiency, which means you may need to replace it with a brand-new battery pack at some point in your EV’s lifetime.

Luckily, EV batteries are estimated to last between 10 to 20 years, giving you the option to get another vehicle before the current battery system no longer holds an adequate charge.

Other Fluids

Apart from battery coolant, your electric vehicle needs brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. Your mechanic can check your brake fluid during routine maintenance and let you know if it needs to be replaced. Typically, brake fluid in an electric vehicle should be replaced every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

You should refill your windshield fluid every few months. Topping it off regularly will keep you from running out when your windshield is dirty or covered in ice.

Maintenance That’s Not Required

Your electric vehicle doesn’t have the following items; thus, you’ll never have to worry about replacing or fixing them:

• Spark plugs
• Air filter
• Fuel filter
• Muffler
• Catalytic converter
• PCV valves
• Exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR)

Explore Pre-Owned Electric and Hybrid Vehicles at Easterns Automotive in DC, Maryland and Virginia

If you’re looking to purchase an electric or hybrid car, but a brand-new vehicle is outside your price range, Easterns Automotive can help.

We have an attractive inventory of used EV and hybrid vehicles to meet your needs. Each car we sell undergoes a rigorous inspection to ensure safety and quality.

Prefer a traditional gasoline car? Check out our full pre-owned inventory featuring hundreds of amazing cars, trucks, vans and SUVs.

Find your perfect pre-owned car by calling (888) 650-4775 or visiting one of our dealership locations.

You never want to ignore a check engine light. It’s important to take steps to figure out what the malfunction may be.

Check engine lights vary depending on the manufacturer. They are usually red, orange or yellow and typically appear as a car engine symbol. The check engine light is commonly confused with the “service light.” However, the “service light” doesn’t indicate a mechanical problem and usually means the vehicle is due for regular service.

The sensors in the engine monitor the operation of the vehicle’s systems. These sensors connect to the On-Board Diagnostic II System (OBD II.) When a system isn’t functioning correctly, the check engine light will alert you.

The two types of check engine warnings are:

• Check engine light is flashing: This indicates a more severe problem. If the vehicle is running when a flashing check engine light comes on, pull over to a safe location and shut the engine off. To prevent further damage, you may want to have the car towed to a service location.
• Check engine light is solid: If the check engine light appears and remains on, you should get your vehicle assessed as soon as possible. A variety of issues could be responsible–all of which you will want to get sorted out as quickly as possible.

How To Fix the Check Engine Light

Every problem that may cause the check engine light to come on has a corresponding code in your car’s computer system. This information is logged by the engine’s sensors and is read with an OBD II scanner or a reader that is connected through the OBD port located beneath the steering column.

There are three options for reading the code:

1. Have it read at an auto parts store. Most auto parts stores will read the code for free. If the code is for something minor, it could be an easy fix that you can handle yourself.
2. Read the code yourself. You will have to buy a scanner for this option. The costs for these scanners vary considerably depending on the device’s complexity and the age of the vehicles on which they work.
3. Have the mechanic perform diagnostics. There is usually a fee for this service. However, some repair shops may waive the cost if you agree to have the necessary repairs performed at their shop. Consider calling ahead to determine initial costs.

Although there are still some mechanically minded drivers who like diagnosing and repairing their own vehicles, these people are in the minority. If your check engine light goes on, you’ll likely want to head to your preferred mechanic.

Should I Reset the Check Engine Light?

In some cases, it is possible to reset the check engine light. Using a code reader, you may be able to turn the light off yourself. However, this isn’t recommended. If there is a problem, resetting the check engine light won’t help fix it. Ignoring an engine problem can lead to it worsening or more issues arising.

Causes for the check engine light can vary and the cost of fixing the problem may be low or extremely high depending on the severity of the issues. What could start as a simple spark plug issue could lead to a serious problem with a more expensive system, such as the catalytic converter. Your best option will be to determine the cause of the code then seek professional help if the issue is a complicated one.

What if the Check Engine Light Is for a Costly Repair?

Perhaps the time has come to upgrade your vehicle. Easterns Automotive can simplify your car selling and buying process. We make trading in your car to one of our dealerships in the Washington, DC and Baltimore metro areas fast and easy. Give Easterns a call at 877-867-0641 or visit one of our dealerships today for more information.

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The average price of used cars has risen every month for the last few years. A slow, steady rise in pre-owned prices began around 2016. Then, it seemed to compound in 2020. The increase stems from a combination of pandemic-related market fluctuations and the supply and demand of parts for vehicle manufacturing.

Supply Chain Shortages

When the pandemic hit, supply chain shortages and workplace restrictions forced auto manufacturers to produce fewer new cars. This increased the cost and discouraged buyers from opting for newer vehicles. These factors, combined with higher unemployment and financial hardship, resulted in consumers gravitating toward used vehicles rather than new cars, truck and SUVs.

Many have opted to hang on to their older vehicle until used car prices go down, leading to fewer used cars being available for sale. This constrained supply of both new and used vehicles has led to higher prices on used cars for sale.

When COVID-19 hit, chip suppliers were forced to shut down their factories to protect the health of their employees. Once production resumed, the factories were overwhelmed by insurmountable chip orders from every industry and sector that uses chips in manufacturing. Automobile manufacturers are just one of many who have since been forced to cope with inadequate chip supplies. The chip shortage has pushed up prices for new cars, which further discouraged new car purchases, leading to an increase in the demand for and price of used vehicles.

Luckily, the effects of the pandemic appear to be temporary. As our lives return to normal, chip suppliers have begun to catch up with pent-up pandemic demand and supply chain conditions are improving across the board.

New Cars Are Also More Expensive  

Advancing technology has also led to a rise in new car costs. Cars continue to get larger, increasing the amount of material used to make them. A fully loaded new vehicle is bound to cost more due to its higher-strength steel frame and fancier electrical systems.

Along with higher material costs, many countries have also opted to increase their vehicle emission standards. This has caused manufacturers to invest millions in research and development to follow and comply with changing regulations. The cost of new green technologies is ultimately borne by vehicle purchasers in the form of increased prices. This leads to a rise in the price of used cars as well.  

When Is the Best Time to Buy a Used Car?

There is no “better” time to purchase a pre-owned vehicle. Whether you are trading in a vehicle, seeking financing, or looking to buy outright, purchasing or leasing a used car has never been easier!

When you buy from Easterns Automotive Group, you can expect an uncomplicated and stress-free buying process. We have an impressive used vehicle inventory that offers a wide selection of car options. Those benefits, along with our fair pricing and flexible financing options, means anytime is a good time to purchase a used vehicle from Easterns Automotive Group.

How Can Easterns Help with Rising Costs?

Price fluctuations in the auto industry don’t mean it is impossible to find a decently priced and reliable vehicle. All our inventory undergoes rigorous multi-point certification checks. This means you can buy with confidence knowing that you are purchasing a safe and dependable used car that shouldn’t require expensive repairs that make owning a pre-owned car more expensive.

At Easterns Automotive, we are proud to work with more than 30 lenders to increase the chance we can find a great auto loan for every car buyer, even those without perfect credit. This allows us to give our clients better options on rates and terms. 

Plus, your car buying process is entirely customizable. You can shop online, in person or both. Our professional and experienced staff will guide you through the entire car-buying process.

If you are in the market for a certified pre-owned vehicle, we invite you to visit an Easterns lot in Baltimore or Washington, DC, or call today at 877-867-0641. Experience firsthand what we mean by the Easterns difference!