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Your guide to getting your home for the holiday season is right here on this week’s blog! Whether you’ve already completed these tasks or not, we want to help ensure that you and your family have a safe and happy holiday season! So let’s get started on your holiday preparations. Clean out your heating system We’re sure by now your heating system has been working hard to keep you and your family warm. It’s also important to have a professional clean out your heating unit to ensure that it is functioning properly. Also, do not store any items in front, near, or around your heating unit. Check up on your water heater Like your heating system, we’re sure you are going to use your water heater this holiday season and it’s important to make sure everything is in proper working condition. Plus, these need to be drained periodically. Feel for those cool drafts Even the smallest of drafts can bring a shiver to you during the winter months. It’s important to make sure all exterior doors, windows, and other openings are totally sealed. Even think about investing in door cushions that are placed at the bottom of the door to keep cool air from coming into your home. Clean your fireplace While temperatures will be dropping, you’ll be firing up that fireplace and it’s very important to have a professional clean out your fireplace and chimney. A dirty chimney and fireplace can lead to issues that can be disastrous. Check on your roofing Unless you previously know you have a leaky roof, it’s time to ensure that your roof is in proper working condition. We encourage hiring a professional to come take a look and take care of any issues you may have. Put seasonal items away for the winter While getting ready for the holidays, it’s time to put all of your pool floats, lawn furniture and more away for the season. (Hopefully, you’ve already done this but if not, do so before the winter really takes over your yard) Ready to get things started? We sure hope you are! One last thing, don’t forget about your vehicle. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your ride, stop on by right here at Flemington BMW and let our team help match you with the perfect BMW for your budget and lifestyle! We hope to see you soon! A New BMW Means Less Stress!

We know one of the most stressful things about showing up to the family holiday party is not knowing what you are going to talk about. If you haven’t seen some of your family in quite some time, this can be rather difficult. Or maybe there is a large age gap in between that can sometimes make it hard to conversate. Well, that’s a thing of the past this holiday season with our ice breakers. We encourage you to use these questions when you sit down to the table and enjoy a heartfelt conversation with someone you love this holiday season! What was the best movie or TV show you saw this year? If you had an extra hour in every day, how would you spend it? Which is your favorite month, and why? What are you most thankful for this year? Who is the funniest person at the table and why? If you could be famous for something, what would it be? If you could have named yourself, what name would you have picked? If you could only eat three things for the rest of your life, what would they be? What’s your most favorite dad joke of all time? If you were an animal, what would you be? So, you have the questions you’re going to ask and you’re ready to tackle the turkey dinner. But what about your ride? Is your ride ready to tackle the holiday season? If not, swing by to see our team for some amazing incentives. And right now the Road Home BMW Sales Event is happening which means slipping behind the wheel has never been easier. Hurry on by and let’s roll up to the party in a new BMW! Show Up In A New BMW!

Fall is here and conditions are changing. Sometimes those fall conditions come with wet and muddy situations and in some cases, you might find yourself stuck in the mud. And if you do find yourself here, do you know how to get your vehicle back on the road and out of the mud? If not, we have you covered because this week we’re diving deep into the mud (just kidding) but we are focusing on how to free your vehicle from the muck. Check it out below and as always, be careful out there on the roadway! No one wants to get stuck so if you see mud, beware! If you feel your vehicle beginning to sink or becoming stuck - don’t stop. Continue a constant pressure on the gas pedal. Hopefully, this will be the only thing you need to do to get out of the mud. You’ll want to avoid bringing your vehicle to a complete stop, your vehicle will be stuck and you’ll have to take other extensive measures to get out. Sorry, Charlie! Rock it back and forth - literally. Once you’re stuck, you’re stuck and it’s time to do some maneuvering. While gently pressing on your gas pedal, shift between drive and reverse. This will begin to create a rocking motion and may free your vehicle. If you’re not free after a few times, move on. Adding traction increases your chances of getting unstuck greatly. Whether you are willing to use your floor mats, blankets, extra clothing you have in your vehicle or random items like leaves, sticks or rocks - traction is the reason you’re stuck and you need to regain that traction to get out of the mud. Place your items in front of your tires and slowly accelerate. If you have a few passengers, asking them to push might be a good idea! Dig it out! If you keep a small shovel in your vehicle, you’re a genius. If not, you’re probably part of the majority. Regardless, you want to try to dig out the mud from around your tires and try to create a clean, clear path back to solid ground. Once your path is clear, hop in and gently accelerate. If this doesn’t seem to work, it might be time to phone a friend! Stay Out Of The Mud With New Tires!

Are you ready for one last road trip behind the wheel of your BMW this summer? We were hoping you would say yes! I mean, if you’re anything like me, you try to hold on to the little bit of summer that we have left and whether you are headed to the lake, the beach or any other favorite destination, this week’s blog will serve you well! We’re dishing out our guide to packing the ultimate road trip survival kit. No need to thank us, we are all about making your life easier here at Flemington BMW! Take a look at our guide below and be sure to stop in to see our service technicians to service your ride before you head out for those long, hot grueling miles! We look forward to working with you and your BMW! Hurry in, today! For The Parents: Car chargers for devices GPS or Map App on smartphone Wipes, paper towels, or towels (you choose!) Light, non-messy snacks and water to stay hydrated Emergency Kit - Flashlight, batteries, jumper cables, tire inflator, umbrella, AAA roadside emergency contact information. Non-Emergency Kit - trash bags, tissues, cleaning wipes, hand sanitizer, and travel-size toiletries. For The Children: Sing-along songs to play Books to read Favorite toy, blanket or pillow to stay comfortable Light, non-messy healthy snacks and water to stay hydrated Portable video games or DVD Player and movies List of games to play like “I Spy” or “License Plate Game” Tip For Everyone! Extra clothing - sneakers, warm sweater, rain jacket. Weather can be very unpredictable, plan accordingly and be sure you are ready to go no matter what the weather is! Start Off In A New BMW!

August is here and that means hot temperatures, humidity, and usually some pretty nasty thunderstorms. And what comes with that - rain and lots of it. And while it’s nice to fall asleep to a thunderstorm, driving in one is not so fun especially if you hydroplane along the way. This week, we are bringing you 10 tips to help you avoid hydroplaning altogether. So, take a look at those tips below and head on in to see our team today if you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle and steer clear of the flooded roadways in a stylish new BMW! First things first, we want to help you understand what hydroplaning is. Hydroplaning is when your vehicle starts skidding or sliding of your tires across a wet surface. Water pressure in the front of the wheel pushes water under the tire, and the tire is then separated from the road surface by a thin film of water and loses traction. The result is loss of steering, braking, and power control. So before you get stuck in the rain again, here are a few tips to prevent hydroplaning from occurring: Keep your tires properly inflated Rotate and replace tires when necessary Slow down when roads are wet: the faster you drive, the harder it is for your tires to scatter the water Stay away from puddles and standing water Avoid driving in outer lanes where water tends to accumulate Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you Turn off cruise control Drive in a lower gear Avoid hard braking Try not to make sharp or quick turns Hydroplaning can be very scary but we want to remind you to stay calm and steer your vehicle in the right direction while keeping the above tips in mind! If you’re ready to upgrade your ride, stop in to see our team right here at Jackie Cooper BMW! Now, let’s hit the road!

Things are getting HOT here in Flemington! And that means your BMW is working double duty. This week we want to talk about how to check your engine’s coolant, when to replace, and what to do when things don’t quite look right! So let’s get things started. Take a look below and if you have any questions or need assistance with your vehicle, our team is only one phone call away! We look forward to working with you! First, it’s important to understand that your vehicle’s radiator works to cool down your engine and in order for this to happen, your engine needs a 50/50 mixture of water and coolant aka antifreeze to function. With this being said, if your coolant isn’t at proper levels, you could end up with an overheated engine on the side of the road. This is obviously something no one wants to experience so here’s how to check your coolant levels from the comfort of your very own driveway! When getting started, we have to locate where your coolant reservoir is. Pop open up the hood, this typically tends to be towards the back next to your engine. And in some cases is labeled accordingly. Rather than opening up the cap of your reservoir, most tanks are clear and will allow you to be able to see where your coolant levels are. Your coolant should always be at the “full” line. If it’s not, pop open the cap and fill up with a 50/50 mix of water and coolant. Most auto stores sell this premixed for convenience. Coolants can vary in colors. Some of the most popular are red, green, blue and yellow. So, if your coolant looks colorless, rusty or has particles floating around - it’s time to flush it all out and fill up with fresh coolant! If your coolant has a sludgy, oily surface, it’s important to bring your vehicle into our service department as soon as possible. This could be an internal head gasket leak and you’ll want this fixed right away. While you’re working under the hood, be sure to spend a few minutes checking the hoses. These are the big hoses that go into the top of your radiator and exit the bottom. If these look cracked, bulgy or are extremely squishy, it’s time to replace them! WARNING! NEVER work on a hot engine and always allow your vehicle ample time to cool off before every working on it. Also, NEVER open your coolant reservoir before your vehicle has cooled. Coolant can be ejected from the reservoir and could burn you or others standing nearby. Lastly, only in emergencies should you add only water to your reservoir. But be quick to flush it out or add antifreeze as soon as possible. Let Our Team Do The Work For You!

Spring is here and in fact, it’s almost gone. That means summer is quickly approaching and if you’ve been putting off your spring cleaning, we’re here to tell you to knock that off and get to it. One of those to-dos that we want to focus on this week is cleaning out your garage and how to keep it that way. So, sit back, relax, and let us tell you all about cleaning out your garage and how to keep it that way! First things first, we need to clean out your garage. Seriously, everything that has made your garage its home, remove it. This is a time to get rid of things you’ve been holding onto for years or find items a new home if you plan on keeping them. A golden rule is to make three designated piles for your items. One is a keep. A second is a toss. And lastly, your third pile is for items you plan to recycle. If you’re debating on tossing an item, think to yourself, have I used this item in the last six months? If not, toss. Now that everything is finally removed from your garage - it’s time to get down and dirty into the cleaning portion of this blog. Spend some time cleaning the floor, the shelves, under any benches, the ceiling, gosh if you can clean it - just do it! I get that this might be a long, annoying process but you’ll thank us in the end. Bonus! Having a clean garage will make the things you own look much better and newer. And let’s be honest, who wants their BMW sitting is a dusty garage? No one. Moving onto the organization. This is a vital part of keeping your garage looking like a well-kept, put together garage that you won’t be ashamed of. There are many options for your organizational issues. Choose how you want to organize your items and stick to the plan you set. Storage shelving, workbench, cabinets, wall or ceiling racks - choose what’s best for you and install. Personally, we like racks because you can get your items stored out of the way yet still able to see where they are. So, are you ready to get to it? Once you’ve upgraded your garage, stop in to see us to upgrade your vehicle! Clean Garage + New BMW = Pure Happiness!

Thinking about slipping behind the wheel of a brand new BMW from Flemington BMW? If so, you’ve come to the right blog because this week we have your guide on what you’ll need when you stop in to see our team. Whether you are planning on driving home a new BMW today or you’re just stopping in to see us for a test drive, these tips will be helpful when that time does come that you’re ready to sign on the dotted line. Check them out below and stop by to see our team today! Things To Bring With You: A valid driver’s license Insurance card Trade documents (title, registration, or loan release) Last two most recent pay stubs Proof of your residency (current bill of any kind will do) References might be needed (cannot include anyone living in your household) While you might not always be required to bring each and every one of these items along when you’re purchasing a new vehicle, it’s most definitely a good idea to have them ready if asked for. Before stopping in to finalize the purchase of your vehicle, it’s a smart idea to ask your salesperson exactly what you will need when it’s time for you to sign and drive. Having these items with you will save you time and will keep you from running back and forth from home to the dealership. So, let’s make things easy and keep them in one place and be sure to bring them in with you. If you’re only looking to take a test drive and perhaps get a quote on a new BMW,  just stop in with your valid driver’s license. This is the only item you will need in order to take a test drive in one of our many new models! If you’re looking to get approved for a loan, bring your last two recent pay stubs or any banking information that you have handy. Also, bring in your proof of residency. This can something as easy as a utility bill. If you have questions, give our team a call! We’re here to help and we’re ready to help you get behind the wheel of a brand new BMW! Choose Your New BMW Here!

It’s National Car Care Month. Did you know? Regardless of if you knew or not - we’re here to help you get your vehicle ready for all of your upcoming road trips and summer vacations because let’s be real, after that winter, our vehicles could use a little TLC. We know, cleaning your vehicle or checking to make sure it’s in proper working condition, is probably last on your to-do list. But quite frankly, it should fall at the top. Would you want to get into a half working vehicle? Probably not. So, that’s why we’re here with our check up list to make your life a little easier! Check it out below and stop in to see our team today when you’re ready to get your ride back in shape! Spring Check-Ups: Windshield Wipers - check the squeegee and frame for cracking, wear and tear. If you haven’t replaced in the last six months, replace today! Check all of your vehicle’s fluids. From brake fluid to engine oil to windshield washer fluid, fill ‘em up or swap them out. When was the last time you had your battery tested? Yea, we thought so. Have it tested and replaced if levels are running low. Shine bright with new bulbs in all of your lighting fixtures. If things are looking dim but it’s not the bulb, try reconditioning your headlights or taillights for a brighter view. Got PSI and tired tread? Fill your tires to proper PSI levels and be sure the check the tread. Weird noises coming from your exhaust? Check for damage or leaks - our professionals can quickly address this issue and get you back on the road. Take a look under the hood at your vehicle’s hoses and belts. Check for any cracking, breaking, wear and tear. If they are bulging or feel stiff, it’s time to change them out. Brakes are important. So have then inspected as well as your brake linings, drums, and rotors. Summer is coming and you’ll need your HVAC system. Try turning it on and if you’re having issues or notice unbearable smells, stop in and let our team take a look! Lastly, who doesn’t love to have better fuel efficiency? Stop in for a simple tune-up with our technicians and watch your fuel mileage go from eh to great! Let Us Take Care Of Your BMW!

We hope you know that there are different gas types. But one thing we find is that people don’t know the difference between those fuel types. This week we are breaking it down for you (and us) so we all know the difference! Check it out below and if you’re ready to upgrade your ride, stop in to see our team for a test drive! What is the difference between fuel types? The first and most obvious difference is the price! I mean, when you pull up and the “premium” fuel is more expensive, it’s pretty obvious of that first difference. But,  did you know that premium fuel tends to run about 20 cents higher than regular fuel? Yup, it’s the truth! In addition to the price, premium fuel comes with a higher octane level. Those numbers, commonly seen as 92 or 93 and 87, are to differentiate the octane levels of premium, being higher number, to regular gas, lower number. Octane is how much compression a fuel can withstand before igniting - a higher octane gas won’t pre-ignite or explode as quickly as lower octane gas. The right fuel matters, here’s why… Each and every vehicle is designed differently and each one is designed to run at top performance with a specific type of fuel. If you’re unsure which type of fuel you should be filling up with, give us a call or check your owners manual for answers! While it might be tempting to fill your vehicle up with a lower grade of octane to save money, it could damage your vehicle and your vehicle will not perform as it is intended if it is required to use higher octane levels. The issue? These lower octane levels allow combustion to happen too fast in your engine which can lead to issues. Issues like your engine could begin to make knocking noises, reducing your car’s power and fuel economy, and potentially cause engine damage. When the roles are reversed, using higher octane fuel when you usually use regular, the risk isn’t as great. If you use regular gas and switch to premium gas, you won’t notice any extra benefits. So, in my opinion, save your money and fill up with the octane level your vehicle is asking for. Drive Home A New BMW Today!

Are you ready to get behind the wheel of your next new BMW this October? Well, good thing because we’re ready to help you! But first, we want to share a little leasing knowledge with you before you stop in to see us for a test drive. If this is your first time leasing a new BMW, this week’s blog is most definitely for you. So, sit back, listen up, and let’s get started! There are many benefits to leasing a new BMW. The number one reason we believe more people are leasing is due to the shorter-term options, as opposed to buying a new vehicle. Think of leasing a vehicle as a long-term rental option, at the end of your lease all you have to do is simply return the vehicle and be on your way! Leasing also has the following benefits: Lower repair cost thanks to warranties Lower monthly payments compared to buying Little to no down payment Fewer obligations - simply turn in your keys and walk away at the end of your lease You get to choose a new vehicle every few years The length of a lease can vary depending on what you are looking for and how many miles you plan to drive. Most lease terms typically last between two to four years. When it comes to mileage, the most common are 12,000-15,000 miles/ year. This is a great time to discuss payments with your salesperson. Depending on the length and how many miles you want/ need will depend on what your monthly payment will look like. Don’t forget to check out our monthly specials, often times our customers will find a great fit for themselves while getting to save a little extra money. A few things to ask: Can I transfer the lease later? What will the total cost be? Any fees? If so, what are they? What is the warranty and what does it cover? Do you offer GAP insurance? Is it included? Pick Your Perfect BMW Here!

Fall is upon us, I can see it there in the distance. Slowly creeping up on us and that means August is a great time to get your BMW in for some maintenance and get ready for those bone-chilling months that are quickly approaching. This week, we have compiled a list of our top five car care tips that you’ll want to prep with to not only set your BMW up for success this fall but to start showing your BMW more love in terms of service! Get your battery checked: Extreme temperatures can put a lot of strain on your battery. A fully charged battery is a necessary item when we are headed towards colder weather. Stop in or schedule an appointment to have on of our trained technicians to test your battery and look for any signs of corrosion on your battery terminals/ or cable ends. Check all fluid levels: Fluid levels are always important but when you’re headed into colder months, you’ll want to have your fluids at all the correct levels. This includes fluids such as windshield washer fluid, engine oil, coolant, brake and power steering fluids, and all the others in between. Replace wiper blades: The main purpose of your wiper blades is to clear the windshield without problems. If your wiper blades are cracked, broken, or just worn out - they will not be able to properly do their job. Summer temperatures and UV rays put your wiper blades through the ringer which can lead to issues in the winter months or fall rain. Give them a once over and replace if need be. Check the brakes and tires: Bad weather conditions, poor brakes/ tires, and inclement road conditions can create potential hazards, this means you need to be equipped with good brakes and tires. If your tires have wear bars showing, replace the tires. Don’t forget to check your tire’s pressure, as well. As temperatures drop, tire pressure drops and can leave you in dangerous situations. Check heater and defroster: An improperly working heater isn’t fun or safe to drive around with. Driving with a fogged-up windshield can put you, your passengers, and other drivers in harm’s way. Take the time to make sure that your front and rear window defrosters are properly working. If they are not, seek assistance from our trained technicians. Ride In Style With A New BMW!