Key takeaways:

• Leasing a car is essentially renting it from the dealership for a specified period.
• Car financing is taking out a loan to purchase the car outright.
• The critical difference between leasing and financing is that you will eventually own the car when financing, while you will have to give it back to the dealership at the end of the lease agreement.

Choosing between financing and leasing a car is crucial when planning to get a car. Do you want to save money for a down payment and finance the remaining amount to buy your vehicle? Or would renting a car be a better option?

In this blog post, Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau will guide you about leasing vs. financing to make the right choice for your requirements.

Car Leasing: Definition

When leasing a vehicle, you pay to use it for an extended period (usually two to four years). The leasing company remains the car’s legal owner during the lease term.

You make monthly payments to the dealership or leasing company during the lease. Since you’re only paying for the car’s depreciation value while you drive it, plus interest and fees, these payments will be cheaper than if you were to finance the purchase of the vehicle.

You’ll have three options at the end of your lease term. You can buy the car outright, lease another vehicle, or turn in the keys and walk away.

Car Financing: Definition

Car financing involves borrowing money from a financial institution to pay for your vehicle. The lender will receive monthly payments from you, with interest and fees. You will have full possession of the car after the loan is repaid.

Differences Between Leasing and Financing:

Difference 01: Ownership

While leasing, you don’t own the vehicle; the leasing company retains the car’s ownership unless you decide to purchase it at the end of the lease. If you choose to buy the vehicle at the end of the lease, you will be responsible for any damage that has occurred during the lease and any additional wear and tear. You will also need to pay any remaining balance on the car loan.

Financing a car gives you ownership of the vehicle once the loan is paid in full. You can sell the car, trade it in, or keep it for as long as you want.

Difference 02: Monthly Payments

Since you only pay for the car’s depreciation during the lease term, along with interest charges (also known as rent charges), taxes, and fees, lease payments are lower than loan payments.

The car loan payments are often larger than lease payments because you pay off the car’s total purchase price, plus interest and other finance charges, taxes, and fees.

Difference 03: Upfront Costs

The upfront cost of leasing a car may comprise the first month’s payment, a refundable security deposit, a down payment (like a capitalized cost reduction), registration charges, taxes, and other expenses due upon lease signing or delivery.

The initial costs of financing a car include the down payment, security deposit, first month’s loan payments, and acquisition fee. The down payment typically equals 10% of the car’s purchase price, and the security deposit usually equals one monthly payment.

Difference 04: Early Termination

Early termination of a car lease may be penalized by a fee. This fee is typically several hundred dollars but can be as high as several thousand dollars. Sometimes, the lessee may be required to pay the remaining lease balance. Early termination fees are designed to discourage lessees from terminating their leases early.

Paying off an auto loan early will save you money in interest. The sooner you repay the loan, the less interest you will pay. Paying off a loan early may also help improve your credit score.

Differences 05: Vehicle Return

When the lease expires, you turn in the keys and walk away unless you exercise your purchase option. If you decide to lease again, you’re back at square one with nothing to show for your previous payments but memories.

If you finance a car, it’s yours to keep, drive until the wheels fall off, or sell whenever you want.

Difference 06: Future Value

The future value of a leased car is essential because it determines how much you’ll pay at the end of your lease if you decide to purchase the vehicle. Lease contracts typically specify an estimated future value for the vehicle, called the residual value.

The future value of a financed car is whatever you can get for it when you sell or trade it in. If you own the car, you can sell it, trade it in, or keep it until it’s no longer drivable.

Difference 07: Mileage Restriction

Most leases include mileage restrictions; these range from 10,000 to 12,000 annually. (You might negotiate for a higher mileage cap.) You’ll pay penalty fees if you go above your limitations.

With finance, there is no mileage limit. You are free to travel as far as you choose. However, remember that increased mileage reduces the car’s trade-in or resale value.

Difference 08: Excessive Wear and Tear

When you lease, you’re responsible for keeping the car in good condition and repairing any damage that exceeds normal wear and tear. This is usually defined in your lease agreement. You might have to pay fees if you turn in the vehicle with excessive damage or missing parts.

With financing, it’s up to you whether or not to repair damage to the vehicle. Of course, you’ll still want to keep it in good condition, so it holds its value, but you won’t be penalized for everyday wear and tear the way you would with a lease.

Difference 09: Customization

You may be restricted in the amount of customization you can do to a leased vehicle. Any alterations or unique components you install must be taken out since the car must be returned in a resalable condition. If there is any remaining damage, you will have to pay to have it or submit an insurance claim, which would require you to pay a deductible.

With a financed car, you can do whatever you want with it! Want to add a spoiler or a new paint job? Go for it! These customizations can even increase the resale value of your vehicle.

Ending Note

Whether you should finance a car or lease one depends on your requirements and preferences. Leasing is generally the best option if you want a reduced monthly payment and don’t mind returning the vehicle. However, financing is probably the better option if you’re looking to build a vehicle’s equity or want more customization freedom. Regardless of the path you take, make sure to shop around to find the greatest value.

The financing experts at Auffenberg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving Tamms, IL., can work with you to create a loan plan that meets your needs, regardless of your credit condition. We can arrange financing for all credit levels because of our expertise in working with various financial institutions.

Get Financing for a New Car!

Key Takeaways:

• Radiator fluid helps transfer heat away from the engine and prevents overheating.
• Antifreeze has many benefits, including preventing engine freezing and corrosion.
• Coolant prevents your radiator from overheating.
• Antifreeze and coolant also help lubricate the water pump so it can continue to move the coolant efficiently.
• Radiator fluid is typically ethylene glycol-based and needs to be replaced every two years or 30,000 miles or two years.
• Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau offers quality car repair and maintenance services to customers in Chaffee, MO, and the surrounding areas.

When it comes to car maintenance, the radiator fluid is one of the most important things to know about. It keeps your engine cool, and it also helps to prevent freezing in cold weather. There are two broad types of radiator fluids. Antifreeze is developed to lower the freezing point of water, while coolant helps to regulate the engine temperature. Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau will discuss the differences between antifreeze and coolant and how to choose the right type of radiator fluid for your car.

Radiator Fluid

When choosing a radiator fluid, it is essential to consider the climate in which you will be driving your car. If you experience cold winters in our area, you will need to use a radiator fluid that has a lower freezing point. Conversely, if you live in an area with hot summers, you will need to use a radiator fluid with a higher boiling point.

Radiator fluid is available at most car dealerships and auto parts stores. Following the packaging instructions is essential when adding radiator fluid to your car. Overfilling the radiator can cause damage to the engine, so it is crucial to add the liquid slowly and carefully.

If you are unsure which fluid type is best for your car, consult a local car dealership or auto parts store professional. They will be able to help you choose the right product for your vehicle and climate.

Antifreeze vs. Coolant

Antifreeze is a chemical that lowers the freezing point of water. Antifreeze is used in car radiators to help prevent the engine from freezing in cold weather. Antifreeze is available in liquid and gel form, typically green or yellow in color. Coolant, on the other hand, is a mixture of water and antifreeze that helps to regulate the engine temperature. Coolant is usually red or blue in color.

Benefits of Antifreeze Coolant

There are many benefits to using antifreeze and coolant in your vehicle. In addition to preventing your engine from overheating or freezing, they also help to protect the machine parts against corrosion. They can extend the life of your vehicle by keeping it clean and free of rust and other corrosive materials. They also help lubricate the water pump so it can continue to move the coolant efficiently. The water pump circulates the fluid throughout the engine. The coolant helps to keep the engine at a consistent temperature by absorbing heat and transferring it away from the engine.

Types of Coolant

It’s essential to use a compatible type of fluid in your car. Different car engines require different types of radiator fluids. Be sure to consult your car’s owner manual or a car dealership before adding any liquids to your vehicle.

Most modern cars use an “all-in-one” radiator fluid, a mixture of water and antifreeze. This type of fluid is usually green, pink, or blue in color. You can find all-in-one radiator fluids at most auto parts stores. Here are the basic types of coolant:

1. Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene glycol is a toxic chemical used as an antifreeze in cars and airplane cooling systems. It keeps the water from freezing in cold weather conditions. It also raises the water’s boiling point, so it doesn’t overheat as quickly. It makes the coolant an ideal solution for keeping your engine at a consistent temperature, no matter the outside temperature.

2. Propylene Glycol

Propylene glycol is a thick liquid that comes from plants. It has many different uses, but one of its most common applications involves being used as an ingredient in the coolant. It has a sweet smell.

Why Can’t I Mix Propylene Glycol and Ethylene Glycol?

Never mix ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. They don’t mix well and are poisonous if ingested. They are quite different in terms of fluidity, toxicity, and heat transfer properties. When mixed, ethylene glycol and propylene glycol produce a hazardous by-product that must be emptied, cleaned out thoroughly, and refilled with suitable glycol fluid.

Changing Your Radiator Fluid

As summer ends, now is an excellent time to think about changing your antifreeze and coolant. They help to keep your engine running at an optimal temperature, even in cold weather conditions. It is also essential to change your radiator fluid regularly to prevent corrosion and extend the life of your engine.

Most car manufacturers recommend changing the radiator fluid every 30,000 miles or every two years. However, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you may need to change it more frequently. You can check your car’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations to determine when to change your radiator fluid.

If you find that your car’s engine is running hot or the temperature gauge on your dash is reading higher than usual, it could be a sign that you need to add more radiator fluid. Other symptoms that you might need to add radiator fluid include:

• A sudden drop in coolant levels.
• Leaks in the radiator or hoses.
• Discolored (rusty) radiator fluid.

If you need to add more radiator fluid, use the same type of fluid already in your car. Mixing different kinds of radiator fluid can cause engine damage.

Also, please read our article on the signs of a failing radiator to prevent engine overheating.

How to Test Antifreeze Coolant Level and Strength? 

A refractometer or hydrometer test kit can measure the freezing point, boiling point, and concentration of antifreeze in the coolant. This information lets you know if your car’s cooling system is working correctly.

Need Car Maintenance and Repair Services in Chaffee, MO? No Problem!

Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving Chaffee, MO, is committed to providing our customers with the best possible service. From car sales and financing to service and parts, we’ve got you covered. Our team is dedicated to making sure your experience at our car dealership is nothing short of exceptional. Schedule a service today or browse our inventory online. We know you’ll find the perfect car for your needs.

Thanks for choosing Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau!

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Choosing appropriate tires for your car is critical to ensuring a smooth ride. Tires are the only contact your vehicle has with the road, so it’s important to select ones that will provide good traction and be durable enough to handle the rigors of the road. There are many factors to consider when choosing tires, such as size, speed rating, load capacity, and tread pattern.

This blog post by Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau discusses the factors to consider when selecting tires for your Hyundai.

Consider weather conditions:

Your tire handles various climatic conditions such as rain, extreme heat, snow, and ice. All these factors impact tire performance, so you must get tires that will function not just in your typical climatic circumstances but also in the most extreme ones you may encounter if you want to stay safe. For example, you can get all-season tires that will perform adequately in different weather conditions, or you could get winter tires if you live in an area with harsh winters.

Consider the type of terrain you drive on:

You should also consider the terrain you usually drive on when selecting new tires for your Hyundai. If you go off-road frequently, you need tires that can handle rougher terrain. All-terrain tires are a good option for this driving. If you stick to paved roads, you don’t need tires with as much tread and can go for a more economical option.

Think about your driving style:

If you are an aggressive or reckless driver who likes to feel every turn and corner, you need tires that can provide a good grip and precise steering. Performance tires are a good option in this case. If you are a calm driver and like smooth driving, look for tires that specify comfort, a smooth ride, or minimal road noise.

Consider the type of vehicle:

The type of Hyundai you own will also help to narrow your choices. Economy tires might be the best option if you have a smaller car. For luxury or sports cars, you want to look for high-performance tires. And all-terrain tires are a good option if you have an SUV or truck.

For example, if you have Hyundai Elantra, you will want to look for touring tires.

Consider your budget:

Tires are not cheap. A single tire might easily cost $100 or more. Therefore, keeping your budget in mind when looking for new tires is crucial. If you have a tight budget, you could think about purchasing secondhand tires. Just make sure you give the tires a close look before buying.

Once you have considered your driving habits and the type of vehicle you own, you can narrow your choices even further by looking at specific brands and models.

Top tire brands for 2022:

• Michelin
• Bridgestone
• Continental
• Pirelli
• Goodyear

It is an excellent idea to examine internet evaluations to get the best Hyundai tires for your money. Additionally, you might seek referrals from relatives and friends. After you have compared different brands and models, you should be able to find the perfect tires for your Hyundai.

At Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving Scott City, MO, we have extensive tire inventory for all your needs.

Visit or call our tire center today!

So, you’re considering buying a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle in 2022. Great decision! CPO vehicles deliver the best of both worlds: they’re like new cars but cost significantly less. However, before buying, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of CPOs. Continue reading to find out.

What is a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

Certified pre-owned cars are used cars that go through detailed inspections by the manufacturer. To be certified, they must meet certain age, mileage, and condition requirements. Once certified, they come with extended warranties and other benefits that make them more attractive to buyers than non-certified used cars.

Pros of Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Car

• A better price – They are significantly cheaper than new vehicles: On average, certified pre-owned cars cost 20% less than new ones. This is because they are used vehicles but have been inspected and certified by the manufacturer.
• Extended warranties – They come with extended warranties: Most CPO programs include an extended warranty from the manufacturer. The additional warranty gives you that much-needed peace of mind knowing that your car is covered in case of any mechanical issues.
• Better resale value – these vehicles generally have a better resale value than their non-certified counterparts. This is because they’re backed by the manufacturer and have undergone a rigorous inspection process.
• Lower interest rates: When you finance a certified pre-owned car, you may qualify for a lower interest rate than you would on a non-certified. This can save you money over the life of your loan.
• Better insurance prospects: Some companies may offer lower rates for CPOs. This is because they’re seen as being less of a risk than non-CPOs.

Cons of Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Car

• They may cost more than other pre-owned cars. This is because they come with extra benefits, such as a warranty and inspection report.
• You may have to purchase a certified pre-owned car through a dealer. This can make the buying process more complicated and time-consuming. However, a few dealerships ensure the buying process is hassle-free.
• They may have higher mileage than non-certified used cars. This is because they’ve been on the road longer and may have been driven more aggressively.
• You may not have much wiggle room when it comes to negotiating the price. This is because dealers know that buyers are willing to pay more for the benefits that come with a certified pre-owned.

Certified pre-owned cars have many terrific benefits, but the above are a few things to watch out for before purchasing. Here at Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving Jackson, MO, we want you to be informed and make the best decision for your needs. We have a wide selection of certified vehicles in stock and would love to help you find the perfect one for you.

When it comes to air filters, we usually think of them as associated with our indoor HVAC systems. But did you know there’s such a thing as auto air filters? And yes, it’s plural, which means there’s more than one filter integrated within your automobile.

If this has piqued your curiosity, stick along. Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau will tell you about these filters in this blog.

How Many Air Filters are There In Your Car?

There are air filters in your car:

1. Cabin Air Filter

Just like your indoor HAVC filter, this filter is associated with the air conditioning in your vehicle. It ensures that no unnecessary particles and substances pass through the AC and cause a nuisance to the passengers. The clean air you enjoy while driving is the blessing of the cabin air filter that keeps all the harmful substances at bay.

2. Engine Air Filter

As evident from the name, this filter performs the duty of clarifying air sent to the engine. And if you’re hearing of it the first time, don’t be surprised. Your engine also needs clean air to ensure it performs at its best.

What Happens When Your Auto Air Filters Are Clogged?

Let’s tackle this question for each filter:

Cabin Air Filter

When your cabin air filter is clogged with all sorts of dirt, debris, and particles, they become clogged and fail to perform its job. Their main job is to filter the air, and failing to provide this results in various problems. For starters, your air conditioning will refuse to work correctly, depriving you of much-needed cold air. Furthermore, a damaged filter can let the particles seep through the opening and enter the cabin.

Engine Air Filter

The engine’s lack of filtered air affects its overall performance, resulting in increased gas mileage. Air, coupled with fuel, begins a combustion reaction letting your car forward when you step on the gas. Absence or lack of air forces the engine to work harder and draw more power. In consequence, not only do you lose efficiency, but it may damage your engine as well.

Why Replace Your Air Filters In Summer?

There are several reasons why you should get your air filters cleaned in summer or replaced if need be.

Pollen Count:

This is more troublesome for your cabin air filter and not so much for your engine air filter. However, the high pollen count during summers can clog any of your air filters. 

Dirt And Dust:

During summer, air filters face much wear and tear due to the increased amount of dirt and dust in the air.

Hotter Engine Temperatures:

Warmer temperatures put more strain on the engine as compared to cooler weather. When the air filter is clogged in summer, it puts additional stress on the engine as it has to work harder to draw air in.

End Note:

By now, you must be well-versed in how an unclean air filter in your car adversely affects your health and automobile. As you prepare your car for summer, don’t forget to give the air filter some attention. Get it replaced from a trusted source such as Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving Marble Hill, MO. 

We provide all kinds of Hyundai services, including air filter replacement and much more. Schedule an appointment with us today!

The rain can be a dangerous thing when you’re behind the wheel. Hydroplaning, reduced visibility, and slippery roads can all lead to accidents. This post will discuss some tips for staying safe while driving in the rain. Follow these guidelines and get where you’re going without incident.

1. Don’t Take Hydroplaning Lightly

If you’re driving in the rain and suddenly feel your car lose contact with the road, that’s hydroplaning. When your tires hit a puddle of water, it can cause them to temporarily stop gripping the pavement, which then causes your vehicle to slide or even veer off course. To avoid hydroplaning, ensure your tires are properly inflated.

If you do start hydroplaning, the best thing to do is to let the accelerator go and let your car slow down gradually on its own. Once your tires regain contact with the road, take control of the vehicle and drive cautiously.

2. Brake with Less Pressure

When the roads are wet, it takes your car longer to stop. So when you’re braking, use less pressure than you would on dry roads. The perfect way to execute this is by gradually pumping your brakes rather than slamming on them. If you need to brake quickly, ensure to do so gently at first and then press harder as needed.

3. Keep Your Headlights On

It’s not just about being able to see in the rain but also being seen by others. When your windshield wipers are on, so should your headlights (and taillights)! This will help you see better and make it easier for other drivers to spot you.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When the roads are wet, it’s more difficult to see what’s happening around you. Pay close attention to the cars around you and be aware of their movements. If someone is driving carelessly, give them a wide berth. And always look out for pedestrians – they’re harder to spot in bad weather too.

5. Drive Cautiously and Slowly

Wet roads mean reduced traction and increased braking distances, so take it easy out there. And if you can help it, avoid puddles – they can hide potholes or other obstacles that could damage your car.

6. Keep an Emergency Kit with You

You never know when you might need it, so it’s always better to be prepared. A few essentials to keep in your kit are a flashlight, flares, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, and a raincoat.

7. Pull Over if You Can’t Drive Safely

If visibility is really bad, or if the rain is coming down so hard that it’s difficult to see, it might be best to pull over and wait it out. You can always resume your journey when the conditions improve. And better safe than sorry, right?

It’s advisable to be safe than sorry, so take your time when driving in the rain and be extra cautious. Following these suggestions can help ensure a smooth and safe ride no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Auffenburg Hyundai of Cape Girardeau, serving East Cape Girardeau, IL, is a trusted Hyundai service center because we are committed to providing quality service. We have a team of qualified, experienced technicians dedicated to their work.

We also use genuine parts and accessories, which ensure that your car is repaired properly. In addition, we offer a warranty on all repairs, so you can be sure that your car is in good hands. 

Schedule a service appointment!