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So, you've bought a new car! Of course, you want to do what you can to keep it looking and operating its best for as long as possible. You've probably heard about all the different vehicle maintenance plans on the market, but with so many to choose from, you might wonder if it's really worth it. Does your new vehicle need a maintenance plan? Learn more about all the benefits of a pre-paid maintenance plan and how it can be worthy investment for your new vehicle. more Benefits of Maintenance Plans Some might view a maintenance plan as one more cost tacked on to cost of their new vehicle. However, a pre-paid maintenance plan is a sure way to save you more money down the line. Dealerships specialize in your vehicle and know how it works inside and out. They'll use genuine parts and high-quality fluids to perform service. Your maintenance plan is already paid for, so service or parts prices don't affect the cost of your maintenance for the duration of the plan. Technicians at Carnamic dealerships do more thorough inspections because they know what to look for in your specific vehicle. They're factory-trained to give you the best, most complete service. What Do Vehicle Maintenance Plans Cover? Not all maintenance plans are right for everyone, and that's why there are usually a few to choose from. For example, a general maintenance plan will cover oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections that need to be done regularly. Some may extend past what's covered by warranty, like a Select Care Plan. This plan covers parts that need to be replaced frequently, like windshield wipers or headlights. Another option can come in especially handy if you drive on rough roads frequently: Road Hazard and Wheel Protection. If you frequent roads with potholes or debris, having extra maintenance coverage for your vehicle can more than pay for itself in a few visits. Vehicle Maintenance Plans at Carnamic As you can expect, finding the right maintenance plan for your new vehicle is helpful when you know all your options. Here at Carnamic, we provide a personalized experience to every customer. We know which questions to ask to help you see which plans are right for you. If you have any questions about what we can offer, contact us to learn more!

Are you ready to ditch conventional fuel and go all-electric? With the 2023 Hyundai ICONIQ 5, making the switch is easier than ever. Here at Carnamic, our customers love the new ICONIQ 5 for its versatility, convenience, and wealth of features that make it so much fun to drive. Learn about the different trim options, specs, and features of the new ICONIQ 5 before you drive home in one of your own. more Electric Capability and Performance Go further in the ICONIQ 5 with its impressive drive range and all-electric performance. As far as drive range goes, the standard RWD option can take you up to 220 miles, while the long-range RWD achieves up to 303 miles. If you're looking for an AWD drive train, the option lands you right in the middle at 266 miles. All options have a permanent synchronous motor with Lithium Ion battery with varying capacities. Different charging options are available for your day-to-day driving needs, from Level 2 charging to Rapid Charging capabilities. Rapid Charging is standard on all trims and can take you from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes! The unibody construction is made of high-strength steel for enhanced safety, aided by a long list of standard and available safety features at each trim level. Features and Options Each of the ICONIQ 5's trims offers different opportunities for convenience and connectivity features. With so many upgrades and features to choose from, it's easy to see why this EV has earned so many awards like Car and Driver's 2022 EV of the Year and three different World Car Awards. In addition to its stunning performance, the functionality of the ICONIQ 5 is aided by its interior comfort and technology. Access the 12.3-inch HD Touchscreen Navigation System by voice with Bluetooth, and set the tone for your drive with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Leather-wrapped steering wheels are standard for a premium feel during your drive, and a digital cluster adds next-level convenience by displaying key vehicle information at a quick glance. 2023 Hyundai ICONIQ 5 in the Bay Area You can find the 2023 Hyundai ICONIQ 5 today at your local Carnamic dealership! Contact us for a full list of specs and features, details on scheduling a test drive, and personalized help from your neighborhood Carnamic team.

It takes quality parts for your car to run its best, so it makes sense that those parts come directly from the source. If you're looking for the best place to buy genuine car parts in the Bay Area, you can find what you're looking for at Carnamic. We can order a variety of vehicle parts for your car, crossover, truck, or SUV that are guaranteed to be genuine. more Benefits of Buying Genuine Car Parts vs. Aftermarket So what's the difference between genuine parts and aftermarket? While they might look the same, there are actually several differences that set them apart. Genuine parts are made by the original manufacturer to fit your specific vehicle. They're made of the same quality materials to match other parts in your car. Aftermarket parts are often made to save costs, which means that they're made to fit several different makes and models. A part that's genuine goes through rigorous quality control and testing to ensure performance and safety. They're often backed by a manufacturer's warranty. An aftermarket part isn't held to any safety standards. It can be made of anything and has no warranty or guarantee for performance. When you compare genuine vs. aftermarket car parts, the original manufacturer always comes out on top. Even though they may cost more upfront, you'll end up saving much more down the line on repairs caused by a faulty, poorly-made aftermarket part that doesn't fit quite right. Installing a genuine part typically takes less time and work since it's made to fit properly, saving a lot of frustration. Plus, they're much safer because of the quality and standards that the original manufacturer enforces. You can find genuine car parts at any of Carnamic's Bay Area locations! We supply INFINITI, Mitsubishi, Kia, Nissan, and Hyundai parts for our customers in San Jose, Redwood City, and the rest of the Bay Area. Our team of technicians can perform installation and service so you can drive away with the confidence of knowing you got a great deal on high-quality parts. Of course, we're also happy to order just what you need as well. Contact us today for assistance ordering your parts or with any of your questions. The Carnamic team is always happy to help!

When you're looking at a new vehicle, you have two options for payment: leasing and purchasing. Both require a credit approval and monthly financing. But what's the difference between the two? Being informed of your options can help you make the right choice and get the best deal on your new vehicle. more Leasing Think of leasing like you would renting; you're paying a monthly payment for the use of the vehicle without paying toward owning it. Just as you would sign the lease to rent an apartment, leasing a vehicle has a preset term limit before you return it back to the dealership, which can be either a length of time or a specific mileage limit. A lease may or may not require a down payment, which can depend on your credit application. There are several pros and cons when it comes to leasing a vehicle. One of the main benefits is a lower cost. Leasing typically comes with a lower monthly payment, and since you're leasing a new vehicle, there's no worry about the wear and tear you're incurring. New vehicles are most likely covered under warranty, so you have added protection during your lease term. However, the downside is that you're paying toward something you'll never own. You might be limited to how often or far you can drive the vehicle due to mileage limitations, and you'll rack up extra charges if you go over that limit. Purchasing When you choose to purchase a vehicle, it's more like buying a home. Your payment goes toward the vehicle, making you the owner once your loan is paid off. At the time of purchase, you'll submit a credit application, submit a down payment, and receive financing through the dealership or your own bank. Then, each month, you'll pay a set monthly amount toward the ownership of your vehicle. The monthly payment tends to be higher, but it might be worth it knowing you'll eventually be the full owner. When you purchase, you're free to customize your vehicle and drive it as often or as far as you'd like without any penalties. Purchasing does have its downsides, though. You're totally responsible for all maintenance and upkeep of the vehicle for as long as you own it, and depreciation rates can be unpredictable. Buy or Lease with Carnamic Whether you choose to lease or purchase, you can find your next new vehicle here at Carnamic! We offer in-house financing, hassle-free lease options, and a huge selection of new vehicles at any of our Bay Area locations. Contact us today to discuss your options and get help finding your new car!

If you're looking for Thanksgiving Day activities around the Bay Area, you're in luck! From San Jose to Redwood City, there are more than enough events full of fun, food, and fitness for everyone. Explore the city, stuff yourself with a Thanksgiving feast, or spend the day with the family for a fun and adventure-filled weekend. more Fun & Shopping There's plenty of fun to be had on Thanksgiving Day with attractions open around the Bay Area. Spend your holiday at the Aquarium of the Bay or Botanical Gardens, both open on Thanksgiving Day and weekend. For some low-key and relaxing fun, take a visit to the Muir Woods or the Golden Gate Bay Cruise. Black Friday chaos isn’t for everyone, and luckily there are plenty of options to shop. Ghiradelli Square, Chinatown, and Union Square all have shops open on Thanksgiving Day, although some might be closed to prepare for Black Friday sales. If you want to take in the views, check out the sealions, and get some shopping done, Pier 39 has everything all in one place, including restaurants and other attractions. Food, Fitness, or Both Whether you prefer a traditional Thanksgiving meal or would rather explore non-conventional dishes, you have plenty of options around the Bay Area. Take a seat for the Thanksgiving Grand Buffet in Sausalito, complete with turkey or roast beef. Or, get your feast to go from the Four Seasons in East Palo Alto. If you'd rather see what else the Bay Area has to offer, you can stop at Fisherman's Wharf for a not-so-classic seafood dinner. Would you rather spend your day getting fit before stuffing yourself at the dinner table? The Turkey Trot is a nationwide Thanksgiving Day Event created for both fun and competition. Bring canned goods to donate, then register at one of the Bay Area's many Turkey Trot races. San Francisco's race starts at 8am with 5k and 10k options to take in the views. For a more lighthearted option, head to San Jose's event, where racers are encouraged to dress up in their goofiest Turkey Day best to participate. Why not get to all your favorite Thanksgiving events in style with a new or pre-owned vehicle from Carnamic? We have locations across the Bay Area, so take a look at our inventory online or stop by a Carnamic location near you.

Whether it's for the practicality or performance, owning a 4WD or AWD vehicle comes with several benefits. But all those advantages must come at a cost, right? Do they really require more maintenance than their front and rear-wheel drive counterparts? Keep reading to learn all about maintaining your 4WD or AWD vehicle and what it requires. more Drivetrain Differences The short answer is that yes, most four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles do require more maintenance. That's because each type of drivetrain works differently to power the car. With front-wheel drive vehicles, the engine pushes power only to the front two wheels. FWD vehicles are becoming the most common among all vehicle types due to their performance in muddy or hilly conditions. On the other hand, RWD transfers engine power to the back wheels. This setup is ideal for trucks that haul heavy loads or high-performance sports cars. Both 4WD and AWD allows power to all four wheels at once, spreading power in slightly different ways. AWD can distribute power in unequal amounts to each wheel depending on the condition, while 4WD gives all wheels equal power at all times. If you're a frequent off-roader, consider 4WD for its performance in rocky, uneven, and less-than-ideal driving conditions. Some 4WD vehicles may have a switch to seamlessly change from two-wheel drive to four for more driving options. Why More Maintenance is Necessary Now that you have an idea of how each drivetrain works, it's easy to see why 4WD and AWD both require more maintenance. The main components requiring extra work tend to be the differentials and transfer case. Transfer case fluid needs to be changed more frequently on average, with front and rear differential oil requiring changing around the same time, although that can vary depending on how you use the vehicle. For the most part, trucks used for towing will need more frequent fluid top-offs and changes. If there's ever any question about frequency of maintenance, always check your owner's manual or check with a service technician. There may be a few unexpected costs associated with AWD and 4WD vehicles as well. The main one that many people don't realize is in the tires. If one wears unevenly or happens to get damaged, you typically can't replace just that one tier. Tires with uneven wear can actually damage the drivetrain, so you might find that you need to replace all four tires for just one flat. Although they may require more maintenance, you might find yourself needing (or wanting) an AWD or 4WD vehicle. In that case, you can find your next one here at Carnamic! We have a wide selection of new and used vehicles in all drivetrain styles. Come down to any of our Bay Area locations for personalized service from a knowledgeable member of our sales team who can explain all the intricacies to you, and drive away in your next vehicle today!

If you’re shopping for a new vehicle, you’ve probably noticed the variety of choices in crossovers and SUVs. Both are becoming increasingly popular because of their added space for passenger and cargo, as well as utility and safety. They look very similar in most instances and offer many of the same benefits. So are they really different, or is it just two different names for the same thing? more Crossovers vs. SUVs The truth is that, while nearly alike, the two have some key differences, with the main one being their body styles. SUVs are built more like trucks, with a separate body mounted to a frame. This method was used in the early days of car production because it allowed any body to be mounted to the same basic frame. These days, it’s only used for larger vehicles because of its added off-road capabilities and towing capacity. On the other hand, crossovers are made more like the cars of today: with the body and frame built as one piece. A unibody construction is typically easier to build, offering a lighter vehicle with more interior space. Although the construction is safer during a collision, that means that repairs tend to be more complicated and expensive. However, the added safety and utility is worth it, which is why manufacturers are opting for crossovers over sedans or SUVs. Deciding between a crossover and an SUV will come down to your personal preference. The good news is that you aren’t short on choices in either category, both new and used. While shopping, be sure to research the body type of the vehicle you’re looking at. SUVs and crossovers are often lumped together because of their similarities, so if you’re looking for a specific trait, you can look at the specs to determine its body style. The Toyota RAV4 is one of the top-selling crossovers on the market, so finding one used isn’t usually a challenge. You can also find a Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, and countless other reliable crossovers with the space and features you want. If it’s an SUV you want, you might like a Ford Expedition or the upscale Lexus LX600. Find Crossovers and SUVs at Carnamic At Carnamic, we can help you choose between a crossover and SUV and find the ideal one for your lifestyle. You can browse our new and used inventory online or come down to one of our many Bay Area locations for personalized service from our sales team. We can even help you make a trade or finance your new vehicle. Test drive models in each category and find your next new or used vehicle today!

If you're trying to decide between a pickup and an SUV, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz gives you the best of both worlds. As the automaker's first Sport Adventure Vehicle, the Santa Cruz shows off rugged style with added comfort and tech to take it to the next level. Available in five trim levels, the Santa Cruz gives you enough options for customizing your vehicle with all the features you need for your driving needs. more Engine and Performance The four-cylinder engine is available in both FWD and AWD in either 2.5L and 2.5Turbo. With both towing and open cargo capabilities, the 2.5L Turbo provides more power at 281hp, a considerable upgrade from the 2.5L at 191. However, the smaller size and lower stature make for easier handling and maneuverability, giving the Santa Cruz an advantage over other SUVs and trucks. Depending on your towing needs, each engine provides between 3,500-5,000 lbs of towing capacity. Interior and Tech Don't let the rugged exterior fool you; Hyundai put everything into making the Santa Cruz's interior's comfort and style. You'll find stain and odor resistant cloth seating at most trim levels, with leather available only on the highest. There's more than enough head and legroom in the front and back seats for up to five passengers. Don't worry about cargo room, either. Although the bed is shorter than most other trucks, the Santa Cruz's bed offers a lockable bed and in-bed trunk that can haul it all. Keep all your passengers entertained with an 8"-10.25" infotainment center, standard on all models. Also included are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, HD Radio Technology, and front dual USB outlets. Safety and Driver Assist Features The 2023 Santa Cruz includes new safety and driver assist technology to keep you safe on the road. Surrounding air bags are standard, with more features included on all models, including Electronic Stability Control, Brake Assist, and traction control. With lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring, the Santa Cruz assists the driver in avoiding collisions. Rear passenger alert and bodyside reinforcements keep everyone safe in any condition. Find Your 2023 Santa Cruz at Carnamic Starting at just $26,045, you can find the newest 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz at your nearest Carnamic dealership in the Bay Area. New models are available soon, but you can browse our current inventory right now or contact us to learn more about availability. We can't wait to get you behind the wheel of your next vehicle!

Are you ready for an upgrade? Shopping for a new car can start as an exciting experience that quickly turns stressful. But it doesn't have to be. Finding the right dealership to trade in your vehicle can make all the difference between a fun, positive experience and a negative one. Carnamic is your one-stop shop for trading and buying, and the best part is that you can do it all right from the comfort of your own home. Or, come to one of our many dealerships located across the Bay Area for expert advice, helpful service, and a seamless trading experience. more How Does Trading My Car Work? If you've never traded in a vehicle, it can seem intimidating. What is your vehicle truly worth? How do you know you're getting the best value? No matter your vehicle's age or condition, our easy-to-use trading tool makes it easy to quickly estimate your car's value. Start by filling in your current vehicle's details, right down to the color and trim. Based on factors including your vehicle's history and condition, we can give you an estimate that can help you make an informed decision on your new car. Once you have a ballpark number for your trade-in value and factor that into your budget, it's time to shop. Whether you're looking for a vehicle capable of handling your off-road adventures, a reliable commuter, or a safe family vehicle, you can choose from thousands of colors, models, and features. If you aren't sure where to start, you can contact a member of our team or read through our blog posts to narrow your search. Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, browse our selection at any of our Bay Area locations. Compare the details, including all the bells and whistles, until you find your dream car. You can even apply for financing directly on our website to complete your trading experience. Whether you're trading in for a brand new car or one that's new to you, Carnamic is here to help. Our team is passionate about assisting every customer in the car trading and buying process. We're even here for you long after buying is complete with expert service and maintenance. Questions? Call a friendly member of the Carnamic team today!

When it comes to owning or even leasing a vehicle, you have to take care of it in order to get the most out of it for the long haul. If you’re leasing, you want to make sure that you don’t get dinged for anything upon turning it back into the dealership. If you own your vehicle outright, then you want to make sure that it lasts as long as possible. In either case, staying on top of regular maintenance in your vehicle will go a long way towards maximizing your vehicle’s ability and longevity. more The most common piece of regular maintenance is going to be getting your oil changed, but there are many other little things to take care of on a regular basis of which you might not be aware. So, we put together the little list below to help you. Warning lights First things first, we just want to point out that you should never ignore any warning lights. Check your owner’s manual if you don’t know what one means, and bring it in if it’s something that needs to be addressed. Fluids In addition to oil and fuel, there are a lot of other fluids that help to make your vehicle go. Making sure these fluids are refilled and/or replaced regularly is key. Tire Pressure If your tire pressure falls below normal levels, it’s important to fill them back up. Tire Tread You want to make sure your tread depth is wearing out evenly to get the most out of your tires, so make sure to get your tires rotated regularly. Wiper Blades Your wiper blades should be replaced if they’re not doing their job correctly, so you should check them for damage seasonally. Battery Your battery won’t last forever, so you’ll typically want to start bringing it in for performance checks after three years. Belts and Hoses Your vehicle has several belts and hoses under the hood that need to stay in good condition, so you should have these checked. These shouldn’t need to be replaced until 30-50,000 miles, but you should still have them checked regularly for irregularities. Air Filters It is recommended to replace your cabin air filter once a year, while the engine air filter should get checked any time you get your oil changed. These are just a few of the key regular maintenance concerns that you should make sure to stay on top of, but there are other long-term things that you’ll want to worry about the longer you have your vehicle or the older that it gets. Feel free to give us a call at any of our service departments with any questions that you might have.

Purchasing an automobile is a big process, but it doesn’t have to be as stressful or inconvenient as it used to be for people with busy schedules or who prefer to do their shopping at home. These days, you can buy just about anything online, and that includes vehicles. If you’re trying to buy a new or used car, truck or utility vehicle in the Bay Area, California, but don’t want to go into the dealership for one reason or another, you can take care of the process right here on the Carnamic website. more Car-buying Process Almost every step of the car-buying process can be handled right from the comfort of your living room couch or the desk chair in your office at work. There are certainly some optional steps you might choose to come into the dealership for, such as taking the vehicle you’re interested in for a test drive, but many other steps throughout the process can be done right from home. The whole process starts with doing your research. The first step is always going to be deciding which vehicle you’re interested in, and you can find an ever-growing resource of information on the vehicles we sell at Carnamic dealerships right here on this website as well as our individual dealers’ websites. Read about the different models that are available to you, or perhaps more broad topics like the types of vehicles that are available, and start to narrow down the list of models in which you might be interested. From there you’re going to browse through our available inventory to find an actual vehicle that suits your needs. You can find both our new and used vehicle inventories right here on the website, and there are ways for you to make sure the model you’re interested in is still available through buttons and forms. Then you can apply for financing right through a link on our website as well. Feel free to give us a call with any questions that you might have about the car-buying process, we’re excited to help you start your journey into the driver’s seat of a new or used vehicle.

No matter what kind of vehicle you own, one of the most important things you have to remember in order to take care of it and increase its longevity is to get your oil changed. Going too long without changing your oil can lead to damaging consequences on your engine, which will in turn lead to damage to your bank account or worse. So, if it’s time for you to get your oil changed here in the Bay Area, California, the Carnamic family of dealerships certainly has you covered. more Carnamic Service Department Locations The Carnamic family consists of seven different dealerships throughout the Bay Area. Whether you drive a Hyundai, INFINITI, Kia, Mitsubishi or Nissan vehicle, we’ve got you covered at one of our dealerships in San Jose, San Leandro, Redwood City or Hayward. Check out their addresses below: 3396 Stevens Creek Blvd. in San Jose, CA ( Mitsubishi) 25601 Mission Blvd. in Hayward, CA ( Mitsubishi) 543 El Camino Real in Redwood City, CA ( INFINITI, Nissan) 2085 Wayne Ave. in San Leandro, CA ( Hyundai, Kia, Nissan) When should I get my oil changed? Getting your oil changed is just one service on a list of what we call “regular maintenance.” This list includes things like getting your tires rotated, your brakes checked, replacing filters and similar services that need to be checked regularly to ensure your safety and that your vehicle is operating the way that it should be. It’s important to stay on top of these things regularly, especially getting your oil changed. Your owner’s manual should have a timeline for you to follow as far as when and how often you should be getting your oil changed, but there’s also a basic rule of thumb that you can follow. Modern vehicles need to have their oil changed every 6 months or 7,500 miles, whichever comes first. Older models should follow a 3-month, 3,000-mile formula. If you’re in doubt, just give us a call at the service desk and we can help you figure out if it’s time. We look forward to taking care of you!