How to Clean Your Car Engine

Knowing how to clean your engine is an important part of vehicle maintenance, and it can save you money. Tidying up under the hood helps extend the life of belts, hoses and other components. Plus, it’s easier to spot leaks, tears and other damage on a clean engine. Check out the steps below to properly clean your car engine, and be sure to consult your car’s operation manual before you get started.

1. Eliminate any residue

Your car’s hood, grille and vents are prime areas for dirt buildup. Blow them out with compressed air or clean the areas with a wire hand brush.

2. Get the temperature just right

Next, let your engine warm up to a moderate temperature – not too hot. This will help soften grease buildup in the engine compartment.

3. Know what to cover when cleaning your engine

Plastic sandwich bags come in handy when it’s time to clean up your car. The parts to keep covered when cleaning your engine are:

• Electrical wiring
• Sensors
• Spark plug openings
• Alternator
• Distributor

Secure the baggies with tape. To protect your battery, cover it or simply remove it.

4. Don’t forget the drip pan

Place old towels on an absorbent mat under the engine’s oil drip pan to catch any hazardous waste.

5. Give the engine a good spritz

Thoroughly spray the engine compartment with an engine cleaner, avoiding the wiring you bagged and taped. Since petroleum cleaners can damage rubber and vinyl components, consider a citrus or water-based degreaser. For parts that seem extremely oily or greasy, let the cleaner soak in for 15-30 minutes and repeat if necessary.

6. Rinse and unwrap

Once the engine cleaner has done its job, lightly rinse engine and components with water. Remove the bags you used to protect the wiring. Once the towel or mat is dry, dispose of it properly. And if you removed the battery, don’t forget to replace it.

7. Remove excess moisture

Blow away excess water in the engine compartment with compressed air.

8. Dry out the interior

Lastly, turn on your engine and let it run until warm. The heat will help dry the hard-to-reach areas.

Now that you know how to take care of your engine, check out our car maintenance checklist to help you keep your automobile in tip-top shape. But remember, protecting your vehicle isn’t just about regular inspections and cleaning schedules. Learn about how auto insurance works to keep you and your car safe on the road.

What Causes Tire Wear?

There are many factors that can cause tire wear, such as your driving style and tire maintenance habits. Tire replacement is absolutely needed when the tread wear indicators appear. Built-in tread wear indicators look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread and become visible as the tire surface wears.

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New 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage ES: Wine Red

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage ES

Internet Price: $13,025

• Year: 2018
• Make: Mitsubishi
• Model: Mirage
• Trim: ES
• Exterior Color: Wine Red
• Engine: 1.2L MIVEC DOHC 12-Valve 3-Cylinder
• VIN: ML32A3HJXJH000825
• Stock Number: 18001

Saving Gas Beyond the Pump

Looking to enhance your gas mileage and improve your car's overall condition?

Check out these great tips for saving gas after you fill up at the station.





For great car care and maintenance tips like these and more, follow us today!

100 Years of Mitsubishi

From its earliest handmade vehicles to innovative designs that would inspire car manufacturers everywhere, Mitsubishi has had a rich 100-year history. It hasn’t always been easy, but the company persevered and the low points were well worth it for the high points. Let’s take a look at how Mitsubishi has progressed since its humble beginnings.

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi made one of its first major contributions to the car engineering world when it designed the Silent Shaft Technology. The patents were licensed to Saab, Fiat, and Porsche. Four years later it created the first-ever turbo diesel engine with this technology. It was around this time that Mitsubishi made its debut in the American Market, when it released the Tredia, Cordia and Starion in 1982.

One year later the company introduced the groundbreaking 3000GT which featured advanced AWD suspension and smart, efficient aerodynamic styling. In 1991, Motor Trend Magazine called the 3000GT VR-4 the Import Car of the Year.

In 1996, Mitsubishi made another great contribution to automobile manufacturing by creating the first efficient Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine. This successful engineering was followed by several remarkable milestones in the racing world, from the WRC Manufacturer's Championship in 1998 to the FTO-EV prototype breaking the Guinness World Record for the farthest distance traveled by an electric car.

However, it wasn’t until 2009 that after 40 years of development, the electric 2010 Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle launched its production worldwide. Later, the launch of the i-MiEV in 2012 earned it a ‘Greenest Vehicle of 2012’ award and paved the way for electric vehicles in the future. After having released the first ever plug-in hybrid SUV, the Outlander PHEV, Mitsubishi is celebrating its 100th anniversary by promising greener, more efficient electric vehicles over the next century.

Best Mitsubishi Models for Camping

Summer is here, which means plenty of fun-filled days spent outdoors. And if you love the outdoors, you probably love camping. Here are some ideal Mitsubishi models for camping so that you can have the ultimate summer adventure.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

The Outlander Sport is the ideal crossover. It’s the in-between size that’s sure to fit your camping gear. A roomy cargo area leaves room for a small or large tent plus chairs, blankets, and any other must-have camping gear. Plus its “sporty” suspension is sure to handle off-roads like a pro.

Mitsubishi Outlander

If you’re going for a big camping adventure, you’ll want the big space that comes with the Outlander. This SUV has 63.3 cubic feet of space with all seats down, leaving plenty of room for camping cargo. But if you want to bring friends, no problem! With versatile seating, there’s room for friends and their gear.

Mitsubishi Mirage

More of a solo adventure-seeker? The Mitsubishi Mirage’s hatchback leaves room for a small tent and a chair and will get you to your getaway, fast.

In need of the perfect camping car? Come down to Larry Jay Mitsubishi today and we’ll help you find one!

What to Expect From Mitsubishi in 2018

 The 2017 model year is winding down which means automakers are ready to roll with new and improved 2018 models. Mitsubishi will be putting its 100th anniversary in the backseat as the automaker continues to innovate. Here’s a quick look at what to expect from Mitsubishi in 2018!

As expected, the Japanese brand will unveil new 2018 models for all vehicles except for those that will be leaving the production line. Unfortunately for the Mitsubishi Lancer, the 2017 model year will be its last.

There is reason for excitement and impatience though. A new crossover will join the ranks of the Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander Sport in the 2018 model year. The 2018 Mitsubishi Eclipse slides onto roads with a sport-inspired design, precision handling, and room for the whole family. It isn’t the only change coming to the Mitsubishi crossover lineup though.

The 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport will boast a refreshed designed. The model officially debuted at the New York International Auto Show earlier this year. It heads to dealership showrooms this fall and includes new features and safety technologies.

We here at Larry Jay Mitsubishi can’t wait to see what surprises are in store for the 2018 model year!

Take Care of Your Tires!

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander ES

 The redesigned 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander is the most advanced edition of the Outlander yet, boasting an impressive fuel economy as well as a third-row seat. In fact, the new Mitsubishi Outlander gets up to 30 miles per gallon on the highway, saving you tons of money otherwise wasted on gasoline. And with seating for seven, the new Outlander is perfect for any family.

Features Include:

• Engine: 2.4-liter MIVEC SOHC 16-valve inline four-cylinder
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission
• Performance: 166 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque
• Fuel Economy: 25/30/27 MPG City/Highway/Combined*
• Exterior Features: Auto-off halogen headlights, LED positioning lights, Heated power-adjustable side-view mirrors, LED rear combination tail lights, Color-keyed front bumper with silver accent, Color-keyed rear bumper with silver accent, Color-keyed outer door handles, Front grille with silver accents, Roof carrier plug-in accommodation, Shark fin antenna, Front windshield variable intermittent wipers, Rear window intermittent wiper/washer with defroster, 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, Wheel arch moldings, Aero wiper blades, Rear privacy glass, Temporary spare tire
• Interior Features: Color multi-information display, High-contrast meter gauge cluster, Gloss black instrument panel, Rear cargo area light, ECO indicator light, Seven-passenger seating, Fabric seating surfaces, Six-way adjustable driver’s seat, Four-way adjustable front passenger seat, Second row 60/40 split fold-down rear seats with independent slide and reclining adjustments, 50/50 third row flat fold-down feature, Front dual-zone automatic climate control, Micron air filtration, Rear heater floor ducts, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Leather-wrapped shift knob, Gloss black shifter panel, Tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Chrome-plated inner door handle, Soft-touch upper instrument panel and door trim, Silver-painted accent panels, Three 12-volt accessory outlets, Underfloor cargo area storage, Cargo tie-down utility hooks
• Radio and Technology: 6.1-inch touchscreen display with rearview camera, USB port, Digital HD Radio, Hands-free Link System with Bluetooth technology and steering wheel controls, Rearview camera system, Remote keyless entry with panic feature

Why Buy Used?

It can be hard to resist the call of a brand new car, but it gets easier when you learn about the many benefits of buying used. Don’t rule it out just yet!

Used cars are big money savers, in a lot of ways. The most obvious is the lower purchase cost. There’s also the fact that registration fees and car insurance are much lower with used cars, so you save even more in the long run.

Plus, a car that’s even two or three years old has already depreciated by a lot, which means you pay significantly less than the initial MSRP and you get a higher percentage of your initial investment back if you decide to sell the car in the future.

You should also consider that if you buy a new car, your options are more limited by your budget. Looking at used cars from three years ago opens you up to higher end cars that you possibly can’t afford brand new.

Finally, look into certified pre-owned cars. They’re a little more expensive than regular used, but have none of the risk, and you get cool benefits like warranties and sometimes finance deals!

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE

The 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. A compact, fun design gives this sedan a youthful and energetic look to match its performance, and it delivers fuel economy unrivaled within its class—up to 42 mpg on the highway in the SE trim. Plus, the Mitsubishi Mirage G4 was designed to be versatile and spacious, so you don’t have to worry about fitting all your cargo and passengers into one cramped space.

Features Include:

• Engine: 1.2-liter MIVEC DOHC 12-valve Inline three-cylinder
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Performance: 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque
• Fuel Economy: 35/42/37 MPG City/Highway/Combined*
• Exterior Features: SE Badge, Color-keyed folding side-view mirrors with turn signals, 15-inch dark chrome alloy wheels, 175,55R15 tires, Fog lights
• Interior Features: 6-way adjustable driver’s seats and 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, Leather wrapped shift knob with silver accent, Front seat heater, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Automatic air condition climate control, Semi-hi contrast meter cluster with chrome accent
• Radio and Technology: Bluetooth hands-free phone system with steering wheel mounted controls; FAST-Key passive entry system and push button start; 6.5-inch Display Audio with Smartphone link system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto; Push button start and stop engine switch

2016 Dodge Charger

Rule the road in this #2016 #Dodge #Charger!

2016 Mitsubishi I-MEV arrived to Charlotte, NC!

If you find yourself saying, “I need a car that will get me far,” then the 2016​ Mitsubishi​ i-MiEV​ is the vehicle you’ve been waiting for.​ Using some of the latest technological advances, the 2016 i-MiEV is able to achieve a 126 MPGe. This small electric vehicle packs a lot of energy under its hood, making it the perfect choice for those consumers that want to go green.​ 

2016 Toyota Corolla S Plus

 

Fully reconditioned, multipoint inspection, new oil and filter, engine flush, new air filter, new wiper blades, NC inspection, carfax certified, we ship nationwide, DEALERSHIP FOR LIFE PROGRAMS GIVES YOU ALOT OF FREE SERVICES DURING YOUR OWNERSHIP, automatic, power windows, power door locks, cruise, cd player, see standard equipment listed below on our website, add to internet price state sales tax, tag and title fees and dealer fee($599.50)

Click here to learn more!

Keep Calm and Drive On

If the summer heat drives you to distraction, the last thing you need is a malfunctioning air conditioning (A/C) system when you’re on the road. Checking your vehicle’s A/C annually will help you keep your cool when temperatures soar.

Getting stuck in traffic is stressful enough, but getting stuck in traffic during the heat of summer without a functioning A/C is the pits. It is important to always have the A/C system properly maintained to keep it in tip-top shape and avoid costly repairs down the road.

A vehicle’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC) keeps the interior cabin comfortable in any season by providing the right temperature and humidity level. A thorough inspection should be performed annually and a typical A/C service consists of the following steps:

• A service technician checks pressures to test operation, refrigerant charge and outlet temperatures.
• If the system is found to be low on refrigerant, a leak test is performed to find the source of the leak. Keep in mind that if your vehicle is leaking refrigerant, it is damaging the ozone layer.
• Refrigerant may be added if necessary to “top off” the system, although some states do not allow “topping off.”
• A technician may also check for evidence of refrigerant cross-contamination, which is the mixing of refrigerants.
• A/C service should also include a check of the compressor’s drive belt and tension.

Checking the A/C once a year is key to making sure your cooling system is running efficiently all year long. A properly running HVAC system will help improve your gas mileage, is more environmentally-friendly and will keep you calm as you drive on.

Lights Out? Check Vehicle Lighting

Before hitting the road, it is a wise idea to make sure your vehicle’s lights are in proper working order.

Lights play a critical role in safe driving, as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen.“From the driver’s seat you may not notice a light that isn’t working, so inspect all of your car’s lights and replace those that are out.

Lights are normal wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement. The vehicle lighting system provides nighttime visibility; signals and alerts other drivers; and supplies light for viewing instruments and the vehicle’s interior. In addition to replacing dimming, rapidly blinking and non-functioning lights, the following tips can help keep you safe:

• Keep headlights, tail lights and signal lights clean. External dirt and debris can dim operational lights from being seen by others.
• Make sure that your headlights are properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.
• If there is any doubt on whether or not your headlights should be on, turn them on. Lights not only help you see better in early twilight, they also make it easier for other drivers to see you.
• Don’t overdrive your headlights; you should be able to stop inside the illuminated area, otherwise you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

Some states have laws that require the headlights to be on with the wipers. Keeping your vehicle’s lights properly cared for and replacing wiper blades periodically will help ensure a safer ride, keeping the road ahead well-lit and giving you a clear view.

How to Maintain Your New Car

Here are a few tasks you can do that will help you keep your new vehicle in great condition for the long run!

 Check the engine oil

Do it regularly—monthly for a vehicle in good condition; more often if you notice an oil leak or find you need to add oil routinely. The car should be parked on level ground so you can get an accurate dipstick reading. Don’t overfill. And if you do have a leak, find and fix it soon.

Check tire air pressure

Once a month and before any extended road trips, use an accurate tire-pressure gauge to check the inflation pressure in each tire, including the spare. Do this when the tires are cold (before the vehicle has been driven or after no more than a couple of miles of driving). Use the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer, not the maximum pressure embossed on the tire’s sidewall. The recommended pressure is usually found on a placard on a front doorjamb, in the glove compartment, or in the owner’s manual. Also be sure to inspect tires for abnormal or uneven wear, cuts, and any sidewall bulges you can see.

Digital tire-pressure gauges (which cost about $15 to $25) are probably the best bet overall because they will give an accurate reading or none at all. Many pencil-type gauges (typically $10 to $15) are good as well. Note that to check the pressure in a temporary spare tire, which is often 60 psi, you will need a gauge that goes higher than that—say from 0 up to 90 pounds.

Give it a wash
Try to wash the car every week, if you can. Wash the body and, if necessary, hose out the fender wells and undercarriage to remove dirt and road salt. It’s time to wax the finish when water beads become larger than a quarter.

2012 Nissan Juke

Year: 2012
Make: Nissan
Model: JUKE
Trim: S
Exterior Color: Red
Engine: 1.6L DOHC 16-valve Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) turbocharged I4 engine
Transmission: Variable
Mileage: 74826
VIN: JN8AF5MV8CT111022
Stock Number: 17284A

You know you want to cruise around in this sensational 2012 Nissan Juke..
Stop by Larry Jay Mitsubishi for a test drive today!

Mitsubishi Certified Program

CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED
Every Certified Pre-Owned Mitsubishi (CPO) vehicle is reconditioned from only the best cars available so you feel that same rare driving experience as the original owner.


CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED PROGRAM BENEFITS:

• Exceptional warranties
• Experience peace of mind ownership
• Become instantly recognized at every Mitsubishi Service Department
• Knowledge that only genuine parts will be used

CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED WARRANTY COVERAGE AND TERMS

Purchase a Certified Pre-Owned Mitsubishi vehicle and get –

• 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty coverage as the original owner, up to ten years from the vehicle’s original in-service date or date of first use, or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first
• Remainder of the 5-year/60,000-mile coverage under the Basic Coverage of New Vehicle Limited Warranty
• Remainder of the 7-year/100,000 mile Anti-Corrosion/Perforation Limited Warranty

There is zero deductible for covered repairs, and, of course, service is available at any Mitsubishi dealership throughout the US.

Learn more about Certified Pre-Owned Warranty coverage here.