Blog

Nighttime at all times Benefits of Tinting Your Windows We want you to ask yourself: Do you want more security in your vehicle? Do you want to reduce interior fading? Hide expensive equipment from would-be thieves? Reduce or eliminate glare? Keep your car cool on sunny days? And increase comfort? Well, ladies and gentlemen, all your questions will be answered when read the benefits of tinting your windows.  Here at Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Racine, we want to help you be completely prepared for everything that this summer has coming for you. more Protect the goodies! The biggest advantage of tinting your car isn't just for looks or to keep up with the fashion. Not many know this but some of our inventory of cars have tinted windows for protection. In the case of an accident that might cracks the window, the strong adhesive tint film will hold the cracked glass together help prevent it from doing damage and adding a little more safety to the automobile. And your health. If you installed new features on your new vehicle, the last thing you want is to have them damaged just because of the weather or worse, have them stolen! GPS units, sound systems, tools, and other valuable equipment in their car that can be easily noticed from the outside, making it an obvious target for thieves. Dark windows means less visibility for outsiders -and is a cheaper alternative to alarm systems. Tinting your car windows isn’t just for for the car but for you, too! No matter how dark you get your windows tinted, they cut out 99% of UVA and UVB rays. These are the rays that affect the interior of your vehicle and are harmful for your skin. Protect your car, protect your electronic devices, yourself and your passengers and don’t forget to have a great summer !

Let's keep it moving How to Change a Tire Imagine you’re out on the street. The summer breeze flowing through your hair while you ride around with the windows down. All green lights, empty sky … ha! We know life is not like that all the time. Sometimes things happens -and you have to be prepared. From the entire sales department of Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Racine, we want to help you be prepare for even the simple things on the road, like how to change a tire. more Easy steps! This is the best part. Changing a tire should be something that every car owner should know. Whether you have a new vehicle or an old car, the road might get the best of you and, unfortunately, end up with a flat tire. 1: Find a flat and a safe place to park. Park as far from traffic as possible and turn on your emergency flashers. 2: Place a heavy object in front of the front and back tires so that the vehicle stays put. 3: Take out the spare tire and the jack- this is why you always have to be prepared with an emergency kit and spare parts. 4: Raise the jack until is supporting but not rising the car. 5: Remove the hub cap and loosen the nuts by turning counterclockwise. Those will be tough, so be patient! 6: Remove the nuts the rest of the way. 7: Place the spare tire on the hub all the way to the back. 8: Lower the car without applying full weight on the tire. 9: Lower the car to the ground fully and remove the jack. Dont forget to secure the nuts as hard as you can. 10: Put the old tire in your trunk and take it to a mechanic in our service center. We want you to be ready for summer trips or simple task like going from point A to point B. Stay in touch to see more tips and tricks for you and your vehicle.

Get exactly what you need How to Choose a Car For some, the moment when you step into a dealership might be stressful; so many cars, so many deals … we understand how confusing and sometimes puzzling it could be. However, here at Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Racine, we want to give you some tips on how to choose a car. more No more questions marks Ask yourself, “What do you need this car for?” if the answer is to go from point A to point B, then you could use a small car with high gas mileage. However, if you have to go from point A to point B with soccer balls, football equipment, backpacks, lunch bags and two pets, you might be looking at an old or new model for a minivan. It carries everything you need and, with today’s models, minivans look stylish and modern. Make your way on the streets You’ve gathered your friends, their friends, camping and water gear -sounds to us like adventure time. Because you want your vehicle to match your style without the necessity of additional feature s, a large SUV will do the job. You’ll look and feel like you know exactly what you’re doing and where you’re going. However, if what you need is a vehicle to help you move boats, campers, jet skis, dirt bikes or whatever other adventure companions you might need, you might want to consider a pickup truck. They have exactly the hauling power you need without losing the style and modern look you prefer. Another scenario could be if you use your vehicle to drive for work, whether it’d be from city to city, state to state, or to take clients to lunch, a hybrid sedan might be exactly what you need. These models are extremely reliable, which tells you that your visits to the repair center would be reduced while taking care of your pocket. Everybody has a model that’s just right for them according to their necessities – Yours could be just around the corner.

Do good to those who love you Take Care of Your Engine This is something that we all do: We hop in our vehicles, turn them on and go on our way. The only time we get to thinking about our engine is when we hear weird noises, see eerie vapors or something on the dashboard turns on. Your friends here at your Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram or Racine dealer, we want to give you a few tips to take care of your engine and keep it running. more Too hot to be thirsty As the plants need soil to grow, your engine need oil to keep moving. So, change the oil regularly! Oil keeps vital engine parts well lubricated so that they won't overheat. Your engine can't function without it and if you go too long between oil changes it can cause permanent damage to your engine over time. Whether it’d be an old or new model, this is a step that should be regularly made. Take it to for a little walk And if you don’t want things to get too heated -literally- The easiest way to protect your engine from overheating is by making sure you have the proper amount of coolant (radiator fluid) circulating throughout your engine. This is done by making sure that the cooling system (radiator, thermostat, water pump and coolant) has the proper amount of cooling liquid. Whenever you see that your car is overheating, take it immediately to the service center to prevent further permanent problems. If you want your car to be a breath of fresh air, then don’t forget to check on the air filters regularly. Its jobs is to keep all the bugs, leaves, dirt and craziness from getting inside your engine. Over time, however, these filters get clogged and this is when a replacement part is needed. Nothing too expensive, yet vital to the life of your vehicle. Dont forget that if you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you.

Bring on the claps and the laughs 2014 4th of July Parade Racine WI Your favorite  time of the year is coming soon! The time where we unite as a nation to salute the strength of our Founding Fathers. 2014 4th of July Parade Racine WI will bring you a sky full of colorful fireworks and a community united by the same patriotic feeling. more No need to get lost Your Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealer in Racine WI wants to give you all the details so you don’t miss one splash of color from the 78th parade on July 4th, 2014. The theme of this year’s parade is “Lights, Camera, Action,” which give the organizers of the area's festivals and fairs a chance to make showcase their talents down the 2.6-mile parade route. If your feet can’t handle so much hassle, hop in your new vehicle from Palmen and don’t miss anything. The sky is dressed in colors Expect nothing but the best. The 2014 4th of July Parade Racine WI is bringing your all-time favorites: horses, clowns, jugglers, antique cars, the popular Iwo Jima presentation, servicemen and servicewomen, award-winning marching bands (and drum & bugle corps), colorful floats, dance troupes, sports heroes, school groups, politicians, and other dignitaries - more than 160 units in all! Whatever you need, whatever you want; you’ll be able to see it all. Fireworks begin at dusk over the lake at North Pier. The fireworks are visible all along Racine's Lakefront. And if you have never been to the parade, let us give you a few tips to make this date completely unforgettable. Find a curbside seat and do it early! Protect your ears against all the police cars, fire engines, military vehicles, classic cars, Case tractors, earth-moving equipment … You get the idea. And lastly, have a safe trip home and rest up for the fireworks. Remember to pack up your favorite beach chairs and enjoy of a night of colors, energy and the American spirit.

The strength we all desire 2014 Jeep Patriot Wherever we go, we represent progression, hope and tenacity. Our legacy is know from East to West. We have our national flag, bird and emblem. Today, thanks to technological advances and fast forward vision, here at your Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealer in Racine,WI, we are proud to announce the 2014 Jeep Patriot. This new model can surely become another beacon for the American spirit. more No matter where you go, go with confidence If we talk about American strength, the 2014 Jeep Patriot can easily fit in. This new model comes with the famous Jeep Seven-Slot Grille, trapezoidal wheel well openings, fog lamps, available adjustable crossbars, available power-heated folding mirrors, available two-piece front and rear fascia overlays and more. The 2014 Jeep Patriot placed as a leader in 4x4 innovation and off-road capability. It obtained the Trail Rated badge, which signifies that this strong character performs excellent in all five off-road conditions: traction, ground, clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording. Space where it counts Because the American spirit is based on the idea of bringing everybody together, the 2014 Jeep Patriot has up to 2,000-pound towing capability. This vehicle is capable of hauling everything from small trailers, motorcycles, folding camping trailers and small boats. No extra equipment, just the American idea of cooperative. And if power is what we are talking about the 2014 Jeep Patriot’s motor is the perfect example. This vehicle is equipped with 2.0L DOHC 16V engine which is capable of delivering a powerful 141 lb-ft of torque. Matched to a five-speed manual 2WD transaxle or the available new six-speed automatic transmission, it comes with a convenient automatic oil change monitoring system. Just maintain a routine to the service center to keep all things up and running. And since the it is what we have on the inside that matters, the 2014 Jeep Patriot is the best example. Room is what we have here! by lowering the 60/40 split-folding reclining rear seats, the cabin of the Patriot opens up to give you a roomy 54.2 cubic feet of cargo volume. Big looks, big hard and a even biggest spirit. Come check out what the 2014 Jeep Patriot has to offer at your Palmen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealer in Racine,WI.

Face the summer with all you have What to Have in the Trunk for Summer Trips OK, so you've packed the bags, the football, volleyball, soccer cleats, lunch boxes, portable video games, dogs treats, plastic bags and the perfect road trip music .. but what about your car? What do you have in it that makes it “summer ready?”  Here at your Palmen Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Racine, WI, we want to keep you informed of what to have in the trunk for summer trips to grandma’s kitchen or ocean breezes. more Your baby got your back For many, the trunk of your car is the place where everything you once lost can be found. However, many drivers neglect the valuable opportunities that this space gives them. And, yes, we know that you've been a “good boy” taking your car to service center for a regular check up, but hey, things happen. First, let’s clarify what are the essentials that every -yes, every - driver should have no matter whether you have an old or new vehicle. These include: jumper cables, flares and reflectors, a flashlight, a first aid kit, a container with water, an extra blanket, and, our all-time favorite, a spare tire. Family car or for that single individual, spacious or minimal, there should not be any excuses for not having these valuable essentials. More than a vehicle, it's your right hand In addition, there are some other items that could possibly save your life or ease the mind of your love ones. Many don’t know this but portable jump-starters, with USB ports included, could be very convenient when you battery or your phone says Hasta la vista, Baby. Add an FRS radio, but the one that runs on AAs, that way you’d know that it won’t need to be recharged and will work when you need it. Lastly, this is the trick that every driver should have in consideration on this summer season. It is not an extra part or an electric device: every driver should keep a small container for gasoline in their trunk in case your car or generator runs out of fuel. Bring on the heat, the streets and be Summer-ready !

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.

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!