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The redesigned 200 is finally here! 2015 Chrysler 200 in Milwaukee If you’re thinking about the all-new redesigned 2015 Chrysler 200 in Milwaukee, we’ve got great news for you! It’s in stock now here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine. Why is it worth the short trip out of town get it from us? That’s easy –  we’ve got a great selection already, and on top of that our sales team members are just the sort of people you want to work with: friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. Let’s go over some of the highlights of this model, and then we’ll help you get your test drive scheduled! more The Pentastar V6 yields 295 horsepower! First, we ought to talk about the engine lineup. This isn’t your average sedan from a capability standpoint, and even at the base level it’s not hard to see why. The standard engine on the 2015 Chrysler 200 is a formidable 2.4L Tigershark Multiair II four-cylinder offering you 184 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. This efficient, hard-working engine in the 200 gives you an EPA-estimated 36 mpg on the highway. Take a look around at other engines on the market with that kind of performance, and see how often you get that level of efficiency. This is something new, and we think it’s well worth checking out. Move on up to the next engine option, and prepare to really be blown away. Available now in the 2015 Chrysler 200 is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 that delivers 295 horsepower. So what’s the fuel economy drawback to that much power? It barely exists. This V6 will still get you 32 mpg hwy –  that's how advanced it is. Get all your vehicle information in one easy-to-read display Inside, it’s all about you. With premium comfort seats throughout the cabin, the latest convenience and entertainment features like the available UConnect System featuring Bluetooth, navigation, satellite radio, and much more, you’ll be riding in optimal luxury and style whether you’re just out on an errand or taking the family out for a weekend getaway. The available 7-inch customizable Driver Information Display lets you see those stats and figures that matter most to you during any given driving experience. Crisp, clear graphics make everything easy to view and understand. Interested in learning more about the 2015 Chrysler 200 in Milwaukee? Schedule a test drive online and then make your way down to see us here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine!

You'll love the oil change specials here! Cheap oil change Racine WI Summer is here, and no doubt you want your vehicle to be road-trip ready for whatever adventures you’ve got in the works. One way to do that is to make sure you’re not due for an oil change –  nothing derails a good time quite like unnecessary car trouble! But you certainly don’t want to part with too much of your vacation fund, so the question becomes: Where can you get a cheap oil change in Racine WI? And the answer: more Some oil changes neglect the filter... not ours! Right here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine, of course! We’ve got some specials running  at our service center right now, in fact, that’s going to make your day if you’re in need of some maintenance. Two, actually, so take your pick! First up is the Lube, Oil, and Filter change for just $27.95. Usually you’d pay that much for just an oil change alone at most places, but we’re throwing the whole works in for one low price for the month of June. Just give us a call to set up your appointment for this great deal, or go ahead and schedule it yourself right here. Get those tires rotated for longer life!     The second one is great if you need something on the fly –  no appointment necessary! This one, our Express Lane Oil Change & Tire Rotation special, includes a lube oil, and filter change, multi-point vehicle inspection, AND tire rotation, all for $39.95! Just bring your vehicle here during our service center hours –  that’s Monday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. –  and we’ll make it happen! For more great specials or to print one of these out, head on over to our coupons page! And if you’re seeing this after June 2014, make sure to check out our new crop of specials that we’re running –  we change them regularly to keep our customers saving all the time on different types of services! See you soon!

Let's get you some new tires! Cheapest tires in Racine Is it time for new tires? Are you sure? Winter can be particularly harsh on your tread, and as much as it can be a pain in the neck –  and the wallet –  to replace a set of tires, it will save you a lot of trouble in the long run to take care of it before it becomes a bigger problem. Today we’ll tell you how to check your tire tread and where to get the cheapest tires in Racine –  and we don’t mean “cheap” in the quality sense –  We mean unbeatable prices! more Keep a close eye on your tread to make sure it's not too low. Alright, so step one is to check your tread. Perhaps you’ve heard of the Lincoln penny test. It’s the simplest and fastest way we know to check the tread on your tires if you’re not experienced enough to eyeball it. Take a penny and place it in your tires tread, with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. Sound crazy? Just wait! Now, look to see if you can see the top of his head or if the tread is covering part of it. See the whole thing. If it’s covered, so are you for the time being. But what happens if you can see his entire head? That’s not the best news, as it means your tread is too low for safe driving and it’s probably time to replace the tires. We wish there were a quick fix, but even assuming you’ve been taking good care of your tires –  keeping them clean, rotated regularly, and filled with the proper amount of air –  the eventual wear-down is just an inevitable occurrence. The upside? We know where to get the best price in town on a new set. It pays to save! It’s right here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine! How do we know we’ve got the best price on new tires? Because we stand by it! From now until June 30 if you buy a new set of tires from us and then see a better price on the same set and bring us the ad within thirty days, we’ll refund you the difference! We sell tires for all makes and models, so don’t worry that we’ve only got options for Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram (though we certainly do have those!) –  Just come on in and let us know what you’re looking for –  We’ll make it happen, and for the best price in town!

Bring your car out of storage As much as we love driving our cars, some of them just aren’t cut out for these Wisconsin winters. Or sometimes we simply don’t want to deal with the effects of winter and put our vehicles away for the season. But when summer rolls around – as it’s certainly doing now –  it’s time to bring your car out of storage! Here are our top tips for how to transition back from your car’s seasonal hibernation and into warm weather fun! more If you're taking it out into the sun, it ought to shine, right? Whether it’s your beach-combing Wrangler or your prized Dodge Challenger, your winterized car needs to come out of hiding now that these warm sunny days are upon us. So how do we proceed? The first thing you want to do, scary as it may prove for some of us, is to check for signs of rodents. Certainly you prepped for this possibility as best you could while putting your car away, but rodents are nothing if not tricky. So get under the hood and check for chewed belts, wires, and hoses. Also poke around for nests. Any areas that you covered up to avoid this, like the exhaust pipe, should also be cleared. Check your tire pressure. This is one of those things that happens no matter what we do. Tire pressure goes down whether we’re out on the road or not, so make sure yours are up to their recommended weight before getting back out there. As always, your fluid levels are of key importance to your car’s performance, so no matter how topped-off you know you were before putting your car away, it never hurts to make sure things like oil, transmission fluid, and coolant haven’t managed to leak out during the winter. Now get out there and have a great summer! Chances are you disconnected your battery when putting your vehicle away, so make sure you reconnect it and while you’re at it, wipe the battery terminals down with a lint-free rag and if they seems particularly dirty, use baking soda and a toothbrush. Give it a wash! Hey, why take your prized automobile out on its first summer run looking dusty? Run through a carwash or give it an old fashioned hose-down yourself in the driveway. We here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine wish you and you car a happy return to the roads!

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Release Date When was the last time you truly outdid yourself? Topping your personal best is one thing, but reaching far beyond anything you’ve accomplished before just doesn’t happen that many times in a lifetime. We’re pretty sure that incredible feeling is what the folks at Dodge must have felt after creating what we now know as the 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat. This incredible car will need to be seen to be believed, and is sure to be coveted by everyone who sees it. So when’s the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat release date? How can you get behind the wheel of one? We’ll tell you everything we know! more The first thing you should know is that this is the most powerful muscle car ever produced by the Chrysler group. Armed with a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI engine that’s expected to offer more than 600 horsepower (you read that right), you’ve just never experienced anything like this car. Inside, you’ll find plenty of customization options to give you the exact experience you’re looking for. SRT Hellcat-exclusive red-face gauges give a unique look and feel, and signature SRT Laguna leather sport seats will give you the comfort and support you need for the kind of incredible driving you’ll undoubtedly be getting up to if you make the Hellcat your own. So when can you get one, or at least get a glimpse? Production is set to start in the third quart of this year, so stay tuned! As we find out more about this amazing, unprecedented new model from Dodge, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.

When you need a great family vehicle for your life in and around the Racine area, it can be a bit overwhelming to choose between all the cars, crossovers, and SUVs out there all claiming to offer the most for families. How do you decide which one is right for you? There are a lot of great resources out there to help, and one of them is U.S. News, whose trusted and comprehensive auto section does an annual Best Cars for Families. For 2014, the winner for the 2-row midsize SUV category was our very own 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee! more What makes the 2014 Grand Cherokee such a great pick for families? There are a number of reasons, but here are some that U.S. news listed as part of their reasoning for giving it the top spot in its category this year: Comfort: One thing anyone who’s been in a Grand Cherokee can attest to is that the high-quality interior is extremely comfortable. There’s plenty of legroom, premium materials, adjustable seats, and if you go for a higher trim the leather seats and steering wheel only add to the sense of upscale comfort in this capable model. Speaking of capability… Power. The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is as oriented to performance as it is comfort. With a standard V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, the Grand Cherokee offers a smooth, capable ride for number of driving situations, from merging onto a busy highway to taking things off-road for a family adventure of epic proportions. Features: The great features in the 2014 Grand Cherokee, both standard and available, are a huge part of what makes families gravitate toward this model. Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard, and you’ve also go push-button start, Bluetooth compatibility, and a 5-inch touchscreen. Getting up into higher trims and optional features, you can get yourself a sunroof, navigation, heated seats, and so much more. Interested in taking the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee for a spin? We’d be happy to let you have a test drive –  give us a call today!

Racine Memorial Day Parade 2014 Wondering what’s going on in our area this 2014 Memorial Day? Today we bring you information like time, date and location for the Racine Memorial Day Parade 2014 so that you can plan your day around that community highlight. Then we’ll make some other suggestions for ways to spend the rest of this great day off with your family and friends. more Best seat in the house for parade watching: Dad's shoulders. First up, here’s all the information you need to know for the Racine Memorial Day Parade, sponsored and organized by the Racine Area Veterans Council: What: Parade and memorial ceremony When: The parade will be on Monday, May 26th and will begin at 10:00am. The ceremony will start shortly after 11:00am and is expected to end at about noon. Where: Parade begins at West Boulevard and Washington Avenue. The ceremony, which we highly recommend that you also attend, will take place at Graceland Cemetery’s Veterans Memorial. So, how do you spend the rest of your Memorial Day in the Racine area after the parade? If you’ve got kids, you can’t go wrong with a ChocolateFest! That’s right –  head on over to Burlington (680 Maryland Avenue off of Highway 36) for this huge and delicious event. It’s actually a four-day event, but the Memorial Day portion wraps up the event and lasts from noon-8:00pm. Thanks to all who have served Not much of a chocolate eater? Go check out some live music by The Mania from 2pm-6pm at Beachside Oasis on the lakefront. Or maybe you just can’t get enough of parades –  you’re in luck! Milwaukee’s parade, which starts from W. Wells and N. 4th Street, doesn’t start until 2pm. So grab some lunch after the parade here in Racine and head up for another one! Or maybe you’d rather go down to the Farmer’s Market in Sturtevant in the morning and then do the Milwaukee parade in the afternoon. However you spend your Memorial Day 2014 in and around Racine, we at Palmen hope it’s safe, happy, and lots of fun!

Report potholes in Racine Potholes are a common problem in Spring, and can cause problems for vehicle owners that are both immediate and long-term. Today we’ll talk about why potholes form, how to avoid hitting them while driving, what to do if you do hit one and have damage as a result, and how to report potholes in Racine so that the roads here can be as pothole free as possible! more Good driving habits can help you avoid pothole damage. How do potholes form? During winter, our roads freeze, and the water that’s seeped into all the tiny crevices freezes with them. This hardening puts strain on the blacktop, as does the erosion of the ground beneath the road which is also caused by the freezing and thawing process. These factors lead to an area that crumbles into what’s known as a pothole. Why you don’t want to hit them: Hitting a pothole can cause a number of problems for your vehicle. This includes potential damage to your wheel rims, engine, exhaust system, suspension, and steering. Hitting potholes can also contribute to long-term wear and tear on your tires, shocks, and struts. How to avoid hitting them: As with so many other things, it comes down to careful, conscientious driving. We’re sure you already practice safe driving habits, but just in case you need a refresher this includes slowing down and leaving space between you and the vehicle in front of you –  these things buy you time in the event of a pothole. Steer clear safely if you can, but if you must go over a pothole slow down gently (this is where the going slow comes in handy). Slow down! What to do if you hit a pothole? If you believe you have damage to your vehicle from hitting a pothole, bring it to our service center here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine. We’ve got a number of service coupons that can help you save on repairs. How to report potholes: The city of Racine has a pothole reporting form on their website. We hope you have a safe, happy season –  and watch out for those potholes!

Start your summer right with Jeep. Jeep Michael Jackson ad If ever there was an automobile brand synonymous with summertime adventure, we’re pretty sure it would have to be Jeep. From a Wrangler with the top down to a Cherokee packed with beach towels and swim fins, there’s just something summery about the Jeep lineup. In its latest ad, Jeep is highlighting that connection, capturing the essence of summer in a series of images to the soundtrack of a voice we think you’ll recognize. Check it out: more So how can you enjoy your Jeep this summer? From off-roading adventures (depending on your capability of course) to road trips in any direction, Jeeps make summer travel even more fun than it already innately is. Today we’ll give you some tips for making the most of your summer excursions in a Jeep! Let's do this! First of all, unless your Jeep is brand new (lucky you!), you’ll want to make sure it’s ready for to make the trip you’re planning. Whether it’s an oil change, fluid top-offs, or a full inspection in our service center, it’s important to ensure that you’re not going be among those unfortunate souls whose summer adventure gets waylaid by car trouble. Next, plot your course. Don’t forget to account for construction. We know all too well here in the Milwaukee area that summer is the prime time for huge projects –  and huge detours. Above all, be flexible, and these little nuisances won’t feel so much like major disasters. Pack smart. If you’re going to be out for an extended trip, make a list of the things you’ll need over the course of a few days so that when those little “Oh, yeah, garbage bags!” moment pop up it won’t be when you’re already on the road. Wherever your summer adventure takes you, we hope you have a safe and happy journey! Thinking about going for it and getting a Jeep? We’re happy to help make that happen!

Upgrade your upscale experience with the Beats & Wheels package Chrysler 300 Wheels and Beats The Chrysler 300 is a unique vehicle for a number of reasons. It’s got a look that’s both elegant and sturdy, modern and refined. It’s a larger car, built for comfort and capability. If you’re the type of driver who wants high-end comfort and a little more than the average oomph when you step on the gas, it’s definitely a good option to consider. Now, Chrysler’s come out with another bit of incentive to make you think about giving this model a go: the Chrysler 300 Wheels & Beats Package. What does it include and is it a good value? Here are the details: more The beats. Okay, so first of all, what makes Wheels & Beats a good fit for a package? Well, it really comes down to style. If you’re someone who likes premium audio, who pays attention to those sorts of details and wants the very best, it may just follow that you want some gorgeous shiny chrome wheels to spin on your behalf while you make your way around town. This is the package for you, and there are big savings involved! BeatsAudio for your listening enjoyment: Tired of subpar sound systems in vehicles that obscure and water down your favorite artists? With ten premium-quality speakers, a 522-watt amplifier and a subwoofer, the BeatsAudio system that’s a part of this optional package gives you an excuse to play it loud. Because it’s still going to sound great. The wheels. Now for the wheels. These attractive 18-inch chrome wheels that come with the Beats & Wheels package not only look fantastic, but you’ll feel the difference when you drive as well in terms of handling and road-feel. So your Chrysler 300 will look great, sound great, and be fun to drive and ride in.These are the details that will reflect well on you, that people will remember and admire. The best part? Bundling these two will save you some serious money - to the tune of $825, in fact. What to learn more about the Beats & Wheels package for the Chrysler 300? Give us a call!

Get your run on! 5k in Racine WI 2014 The warm weather is finally finding us here in Wisconsin, and we couldn't be more grateful for it. If you're anything like us, the first thing you want to do is find plenty of ways to get out and make the most of it as soon as possible. One great way to enjoy the outdoors while staying active and involved in your community is by taking part in a 5k event. These runs are fun, competitive (if you want them to be!), and a great way to stay active and help motivate you to get or stay in shape. So are you ready to do a 5K in Racine WI in 2014? Read on for the races coming up this month! more Lace 'em up and get out there! May 11, 2014 - Mom's Day 5K: Looking for whole-family fun? This 5K is a run/walk - meaning you're free to just stroll the course if that's more your thing! - that takes place along the lakefront. It's open to everyone - men, children, moms and non-moms alike can all attend and participate! Local charities benefit from your registration fee. The 5K starts at 9am, with packet pickup starting at 8am at North Beach. Register here. May 24, 2014 - The Color Run is a nationally run, well-organized, and super-fun event that's bursting with color and energy for spring. Run, dance, and enjoy yourself as your make your way through this colorful course. Sign up as a team of four or more to save on registration. Start at Pershing Park - start-line window opens up at 9:00am with waves of participants starting every few minutes. Should be a great time! Everyone loves a Color Run! May 31, 2014 - The Cree Cruise 5K Run & Walk - This family-friendly event is on Saturday the 31st and starts at 9201 Washington Avenue. All proceeds benefit Recreational Activities for the Developmentally Disabled. Cash prizes for top finishers - you can register online here. We hope you're able to get out to one of these great events this month here in Racine. Running not your thing? We're always here to help you drive to your destination if you need a new car, truck, or SUV! However you get from here to there, we hope you have a happy, active spring!

It's easy and useful - go for it! How to use Autostick For your average driver, the assumption is that your transmission choices fall neatly into two categories: manual or automatic. But it just isn't so! There's a unique and innovative option out there called Autostick - have you heard of it? It's actually been around since the 1990s and continues to be an option on a number of great vehicles today. But what is it? How does it work? And is it right for you? Today we'll explore more about the Autostick transmission system and help you determine how to use autostick to your best advantage. more 2014 Dodge Avenger   So what is it? In short, super-simplified terms, it functions much like  like a manual transmission, but with no clutch. That is, you the driver are in control of what gear you're in and have  advanced control over your automobile in a variety of situations,  with the convenience of fully automatic transmission when you want it. There are a number of benefits to using the Autostick transmission option. Depending on what kind of driving you like to do, the option to control your gears can be very appealing, whether it's for fun in your super-capable Dodge Avenger, or you want to use it so that you can downshift on steep hills. For those people who like to be in control from time to time but don't want to be constantly saddled with the shifting process as with a manual, Autostick provides a smart alternative. The 2014 Dodge Dart has an Autostick option as well! It's available on several of our models, including the Dodge Dart. Worried about starting your car in snow during winter here in Wisconsin? With Autostick, you can start from second or third gear for improved traction. Want to learn more about our models here at Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep of Racine? We'll gladly give you a test drive and let you try Autostick out for yourself -- Just give us a call or stop in!