Spooky Places to Visit
This time of year in Albany, Schenectady, Latham, Saratoga and Clifton Park, NY, you can find just about any type of fright you’re looking for. Haunted hayrides, spooky corn mazes, and chill-inducing haunted houses are a dime a dozen. But, what if those chills were from a real haunted house right nearby? Being one of the oldest states in our country, we have the advantage of lots of old homes and establishments capable of providing the heebee-jeebees, if that’s what you like. You can check them all out here.
Gherbert@syracuse.com, Geoff Herbert |. “Haunted Places in Upstate NY: 56 Spooky Houses and More to Visit — If You Dare.” NewYorkUpstate.com. N.p., 25 Sept. 2015. Web. 19 Oct. 2016.
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2017 Nissan Titan Research & Review Page Coming Soon
Albany, Schenectady, Latham, Saratoga, and Clifton Park, NY customers can now test drive the 2017 Nissan Titan at Destination Nissan. However, if you’d like to get the details about the 2017 Titan before stopping by, we suggest waiting for our newest Research & Review page to be released. The page will include trim level options, safety features, and details on the engine options. Stay tuned to our blog, we will announce here when the full 2017 Nissan Titan Research & Review page is live.
New Vehicle Specials for October
Those who are shopping for a new vehicle in Albany, Schenectady, Latham, Saratoga and Clifton Park, NY should take a moment to browse our New Vehicle Specials for October. This month we’re featuring the Rogue, Pathfinder, Murano, Frontier, and Titan. Once you see something you like, you can schedule a test drive and start the financing process right on our website!
Understand the Differences Between AWD and 4WD
When car shopping you have probably come across vehicles classified as all-wheel drive and others classified as four-wheel drive. But what is the difference? Here’s what you need to know.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
An all-wheel drive vehicle can provide power to any wheel of the vehicle when it senses it needs it. One of the biggest differences between AWD and 4WD is that AWD is on all the time. This is most often found on cars and crossover vehicles, and it uses a front, rear, and center differential to deliver the power to all four wheels. This is a good system for everyday driving and when slippery conditions are possible
Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
Four-wheel drive is not as flexible as all-wheel drive, but it will handle tougher conditions. Four-wheel drive uses just two differentials instead of the three in AWD, as well as a transfer case to get the power to all of the wheels. Four-wheel drive is also what you would find on a truck or SUV, and it provides better traction in low-speed off-roading conditions. Many vehicles have 4WD as an option that you can turn on when you need it.
While both systems have their benefits, what you need depends on the type of driving you do. Four-wheel drive is better when you drive in extreme conditions or if you take your vehicle off-roading. All-wheel drive is a good choice if you live in a wintry area and want better traction when you drive in changing conditions.
Image via Flickr by barnimages.com
2 Ways Your Tires Are Impacted by Winter Cold
It is important to keep an eye on your tires when the weather starts to turn colder. The temperature drop can change how well your tires ride and effect your safety. Here are some ways winter cold impacts your tires and what you should do to once the temperature starts to dip.
Tire Pressure
When the temperature goes down, air molecules contract. This means the air in your tires takes up less space and your tires lose pressure. Driving on underinflated tires means it takes more time to stop when you apply the brakes. It can also cause them to wear down in an irregular pattern and wear out faster. Driving on underinflated tires also creates more heat and increases rolling resistance.
Cracking
Tires designed for summer driving might not stand up to cold winter temperatures. They might become more rigid, and they could crack when the temperatures drop. Further, tires designed for warmer weather won’t provide grip on snow or ice, making driving treacherous. Winter tires are made with a special compound designed to provide better traction in cold weather.
Remember that a tire will go down about one or two pounds for every 10 degrees the temperature drops. Make sure to check your tire pressure after it gets cold and inflate them if needed. It is a good idea to do a quick check about once a month during the winter to make sure they remain at the correct pressure.
Image via Flickr by borderlys
3 Surprising Ways to Extend Your Battery Life
Most people simply expect their car to start on command, and think little of their battery until it fails. While all car batteries have a set lifespan, here are a few tips to prolong your battery life.
Inspect it Regularly
It’s important that your car battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion. If you spot any corrosion, you’ll need to address the issue before the battery fails on you. Bringing your car in for routine maintenance and inspections will also help your battery is in optimal condition.
Insulate it in Extreme Temperatures
You may not realize just how much the weather affects car batteries. In fact, batteries are more likely to die in the winter, causing motorists to be stranded in the cold. To avoid this problem, purchase a car battery insulation kit if one didn’t already come with your vehicle.
Avoid Operating the Radio or Lights Before Starting the Car
When the vehicle is running, the alternator charges the battery, but if you haven’t started the car and try to use the electronics or headlights, you’re depleting the battery power. Car batteries are simply not meant for this type of use, so start the car first before switching on any accessories.
With winter approaching, keep these helpful tips in mind so that your car battery won’t leave you stranded on the roadside. And if you need a new battery or inspection, schedule an appointment with Destination Nissan. We’ll ensure your battery is in prime shape.
Image via Flickr by pixi acid
3 Local Fun Runs This Festive Season
Just because the hectic holiday season is coming up doesn’t mean that you should slow down or stop your exercise regimen. Take part in one of these local fun runs to stay in shape over the holidays.
Run Off That Turkey Trot
On Saturday, Nov. 26, you can burn off some of your Thanksgiving meal by running in this 5K race. It starts at Altamont Elementary School and benefits the Helderberg Running Club Junior Olympic Team. Prizes are awarded for all age groups, from 12 and under to 80 and over.
The Capital Region Jingle Bell Run
This is one of the largest holiday-themed races in the area. Sponsored by the Arthritis Foundation, this 5K run is a fun way to get out and exercise. It is a family-friendly event that you can either run or walk while wearing your holiday-themed costume. Join the fun on Dec. 3 at Halfmoon Town Park.
First Night Saratoga 5K Run
This annual race takes place on Dec. 31. The challenging course starts and finishes on the Skidmore College campus, and participants receive $5 off their First Night button when they register for the race. The top three male and female finishers receive awards.
There are plenty of races you can join throughout the holiday season in the Albany area, whether you like a quick one-mile run or a longer half marathon. Bring the whole family, and run or walk your way through the holidays.
Image via Flickr by akarmy
3 Easy Ways to Get More Mileage on Your Road Trip
Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or a weekend drive to see the fall colors, you want to maximize your gas mileage and spend less at the pump. Here are a few tips for getting more mileage on your road trip.
Drive at an Even Speed
Pressing hard on the gas and braking sharply uses a lot of gas. To cut down on your mileage, apply even pressure to the gas pedal and brake slowly and evenly. You can also decrease your speed to increase your gas mileage. The faster you drive, the more gas your car will burn.
Check the Tires
Before heading out on your trip, check to make sure your tires are inflated properly. Underinflated tires will cause your vehicle to use more gas. Keep in mind that when the temperature drops, the tire pressure will drop, too, so check them when the weather cools. You can keep a tire pressure gauge in the car for a quick check when needed.
Don’t Carry Excess Weight
Before heading out on a road trip, make sure you are not carrying unnecessary cargo. You also want to avoid using a rooftop cargo box. Strapping one of these to the top of your vehicle decreases the aerodynamics and results in lower gas mileage.
These are just a few of the things you can do to get the most out of a tank of gas. Just a few minor adjustments can make a big difference.
Image via Flickr by Rhubarbie
3 Can’t Miss Concerts in Albany this December
With many musical acts coming to Albany this December, there is something for everyone no matter what kind of music you like. Here are some of the can’t-miss concerts this season at venues large and small.
I Love the 90s
The 90s brought us Vanilla Ice, Coolio, and Salt-N-Pepa, and you can see them all at this fun show on Dec. 1. Head to the Times Union Center on South Pearl Street to listen to these popular 90s bands’ music and take a trip down memory lane.
An Evening With Yo-Yo Ma
Yo-Yo Ma returns to the Albany Symphony for a one-night performance on Dec. 8 at the Palace Theater. Yo-Yo Ma is one of the most renowned cellists in the world, and he will perform with the Albany Symphony alongside conductor David Alan Miller.
Joan Osborne
On Dec. 10, Joan Osborne will perform at The Egg on Empire State Plaza in Albany. Osborne has released several hits over the past 20 years, including “Relish,” and has won seven Grammy awards. Her style includes a combination of blues, soul, rock, and country, and her acoustic concert is part of the American Roots & Branches series.
If you love music, Albany is a great place to see some of your favorite artists. A number of venues offer all kinds of music, whether you enjoy a smaller intimate experience or a large crowd and heart-pumping music that will get you dancing.
Image via Flickr by chuckthewriter
The Nissan LEAF Makes Life Easier
If you’re like most of us, you have enough stress in your life. Kids, pets, meetings, all the things that keep us running day in and day out. Wouldn’t it be nice to have just one thing that’s always easy? How about a reliable vehicle that can be ready to go when you need it? For example, the Nissan LEAF has access to the largest metro-area fast changing network, making charging easier than ever! Stop into Destination Nissan for a test drive and you’ll feel a weight lifted off your shoulders immediately.
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