Car sales have gone through the roof in recent years, but we have good news. New and used car prices are finally slowing down from record highs, meaning that many of us can finally afford an upgrade!

If you’re looking for a new car, you don’t want to settle. Fortunately, sales numbers can tell you a lot about a vehicle’s performance. Let’s talk about the best cars to buy in 2022 and help you find the best dealerships to purchase from!

12. Honda Accord

Honda Accords are always on the list for most popular mid-size sedans, and the Civics always perform admirably for smaller ones. 2022 is no exception, even with a massive sales dip for sedans in the US, as more consumers prefer SUVs and larger vehicles.

11. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is gaining serious traction among EV and luxury vehicle lovers, selling just over 108,000 models in the first half of 2022. The compact luxury SUV has an impressive range of up to 330 miles (battery only), sells for a fair $65,000, and is the only EV to make it on this list.

10. Toyota Tacoma

Tacomas are the most popular small pickup trucks in the world, and they are still selling exceptionally well. They are more expensive on average than similar pickup trucks, and they don’t often come with the same luxury. However, serious drivers are well aware of Toyota’s dependability, especially when it comes to their Tacoma.

Tacomas can last hundreds of thousands of miles with proper care, which is why they have such a high resale value for a used car purchase. It’s no surprise that they’ve sold over 108,000 Tacomas so far this year!

9. Honda CR-V

Dependable, safe, and time-tested CR-Vs are at it again, selling over 116,000 vehicles. CR-Vs are known for their sophisticated AWD systems and reliability in tough weather conditions, making them very popular in the northern US.

8. Toyota Highlander

Selling over 117,000 Highlanders, Toyota is showing a dramatic shift toward SUVs and larger vehicles among US consumers. The Highlander is one of the best-performing mid-size SUVs on the market, selling 51,000 more units in 2021 than the year before!

7. Toyota Corolla

For commuting cars, it’s difficult to beat the Corolla. It’s fuel-efficient, getting up to 40 mpg on the highway, and up to 53 mpg with the hybrid version.

Not only that, but it comes with the classic Toyota dependability, meaning it can outlive you and your kids with proper care. It’s no surprise that it’s sold 117,000 models so far this year, even with sedans dwindling in popularity.

6. RAM Series

RAM pickup trucks are decreasing in popularity, selling 15% less than in 2022. Some recent models have had problems with their engines and transmissions, which is affecting consumer trust.

However, people buy RAMs for their power and prestige in the trucking world. They come with many bells and whistles that offer a reasonably luxurious drive, along with plenty of popular aftermarket parts. Certain versions of the RAM 1500 can tow up to 8,280 pounds, and the 3500 can tow an unprecedented 14,970 pounds, which should help RAM increase its sales!

5. Chevy Silverado

Like the RAM series, Chevy Silverados are increasing in popularity for pickup trucks. They’re affordable and come with plenty of luxury, offering a massive towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds.

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee

It’s clear that consumers are turning toward mid-sized SUVs more than ever when the Grand Cherokee tops our list for American SUVs. The Grand Cherokee outperformed other popular Jeep models, as well as the Toyota Highlander and similar-sized models this year, selling over 134,000 models so far!

3. Toyota Camry

What a surprise, the Toyota Camry again this year tops our list for sedans once again. The Camry is an ultra-reliable vehicle known for lasting well over 250,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. Drivers have caught on, which is why Toyota has sold 136,000 Camrys so far this year.

2. Toyota RAV4

It should come as no surprise that the Toyota RAV4 is at the top of the list for SUVs, selling just over 200,000 vehicles so far in the US. The Toyota brand is widely associated with longevity and dependability, and many drivers are willing to pay a little extra for security. More Americans are turning away from sedans in favor of SUVs and crossovers, and the RAV4 is still the most popular choice for small SUVs.

Also, Toyota is notoriously late to the game on EVs, as they want to perfect the technology before introducing it and tarnishing their brand. However, they had a substantial headstart on the competition for hybrid vehicles, so they are sticking to their niche. Their Hybrid RAV4 has become a very popular seller and is highly rated by consumer reports across the board!

1. Ford F-Series

The introduction of the new, all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning has brought much attention to Ford in the last year. However, that’s far from the only reason the F-series tops this year’s list. Believe it or not, Ford saw a 17% decline in sales in 2022 and still held on to the top spot!

These are versatile vehicles, performing admirably as work, commute, or off-road trucks.

The Ford F-Series tops the list year after year because of its dependability, power, and value balance. As a result, Ford still makes over 90% of its profits from the F-150 alone and has stopped making sedans altogether, as their trucks perform so well. The F-series sells $17 billion more than all of Tesla’s vehicles combined!

Get the Right Car For Your Needs

Now that you know the best cars to buy in 2022, consider your needs and choose a vehicle off this list! For pickup trucks, it’s hard to beat the Ford F-series, and (if you noticed a pattern) it’s hard to beat Toyota or Honda generally!

Stay up to date with our latest automotive news, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for help finding a vehicle for you!

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One of the best ways to keep your engine in top condition is by getting regular oil changes. The type of oil change you get varies based on the make and model of your car, but every gas-powered car needs one.

There are rules of thumb to help you decide whether or not to take your car in for an oil change. Take a look at these 7 signs it’s time to take your car in for an oil change service right away.

1. Engine Noises

Even if you have an older model car, it’s not normal to hear clicking sounds coming from your engine. Oil helps to keep your car engine lubricated.

When oil levels get low, there isn’t enough oil available to protect your engine. This means parts could be rubbing together that aren’t supposed to.

The sounds you hear when its time for an oil change are a great reminder of how devastating skipping an oil change could be. These noises represent how sensitive your engine is to not having the right amount of lubrication.

2. Burning Smell

Another way to tell it’s time for an oil change is if you notice a burning smell after starting up your car. This isn’t the same smell that lingers with simple things like leftover food in the backseat.

You’ll notice a sharp, smoky smell when your engine is too hot. The oil you put in your car helps to keep the engine cool. Going too long without an oil change forces the engine to work too hard with grinding parts and no temperature control.

Even if you’ve just had an oil change and notice a smell, take your car in for service right away. It could be a sign of an oil leak which could be a costly repair.

3. Oil Consistency Looks Different

The consistency of your oil is much different right after an oil change compared to beforehand. When it’s time for an oil change, your oil will likely be dirty and have a poor consistency.

Right after replacing your oil, it’s usually transparent. Check your oil’s consistency by taking out the dipstick when you think notice other symptoms like engine noises or smells.

4. Oil Level is Low

Some cars have a known leak that needs to be checked regularly. When oil levels are low, you need to take your car in for an oil change right away.

This is especially true with older model cars whose engine parts might not be in top condition. Check your oil level with a napkin by taking out the dipstick and wiping it clean.

Next, place the dipstick back into the oil and remove it to see where your oil levels are. If it’s dry or down near the tip of your dipstick, it’s time for an immediate oil change.

5. Service Light is On

Some drivers are lucky enough to have warning lights that come on when oil levels are low. This oil light is indicated by a symbol that resembles an oil container.

While these lights are helpful, you’ll still need to watch out for other signs to see how urgent your oil change is. Some warning lights come on right before an oil change while others come on at the time service is needed.

Don’t rely completely on your car’s computer to make this decision. Check your oil levels and consistency to see what your car needs and when.

The best solution is to play it safe by taking your car in for service as soon as you see the light. In some cars, the oil change light can also mean other services are needed like O2 sensors.

6. Exhaust Smoke

Starting up your car during the colder months almost always equals smoke from your exhaust. This isn’t usually cause for alarm unless the smoke turns from white to blue.

Bluish and dark grey smoke might be a sign your engine isn’t getting the oil lubrication it needs. It’s a symptom that’s usually paired with a burning smell from the engine but might also stand alone.

The dark smoke can also be a result of an oil leak. Be sure to get the problem looked at right away to avoid having major issues with your engine.

Oil changes aren’t just about keeping your car from smelling bad or having embarrassing smoke trailing behind you on the highway. Engines do lock up when you push them too hard without oil.

Once this happens, it’s time to rebuild or replace your engine. That price is likely to be 100 times the cost of a regular oil change so take the easy route and focus on routine care.

7. Bad Gas Mileage

Another sign it’s time for an oil change is when you notice you’re filling up your car more often than usual. Bad gas mileage is a sign your car engine is working way too hard and is burning through fuel faster to get the support it needs.

This happens when your engine oil is old and becomes thick making it hard for the parts to move like they normally do. There are other reasons your car can have bad gas mileage but the simplest solve is to get an oil change.

What If I Miss My Oil Change?

You’d be surprised how many busy people forget simple routine maintenance like getting an oil change. Oil changes keep the heart of your vehicle, the engine, pumping.

When you skip oil changes, your car won’t always respond immediately with the signs above. You might get lucky driving your car without any symptoms for hundreds of miles before noticing anything is wrong.

But keep in mind that this wear and tear on your engine build up if you continue to miss oil changes over time. There might not be a consequence in the next few months or even years, but you are shortening the lifespan of your engine which is both costly and unsafe.

For more information or to check out our service specials, contact us today.

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Despite all reports about pre-owned vehicle prices recently, people are still buying. More significantly, studies show more buyers are most satisfied with the dealership experience. Incentive programs and reliable vehicles played a role in the 75% satisfaction rate.

With the school year ending, many are looking for used cars under 10k for their children. Others want to start the summer fun now with the best used vehicle at a reasonable price.

Whatever your reason for wanting to shop used cars in San Antonio, keep reading. Here is a guide to the best used vehicles for less than $10,000.

The Best Used Cars Under 10K

There’s been a lot of news about the rising price of used vehicles in San Antonio lately. Yet, there are still plenty of good deals if you know where to look.

You don’t have to give up on your criteria for the best used vehicles either. Used cars under 10K come in all shapes and sizes.

1. 2012 Ford Fusion

There may not be a better mid-size car with a reputation for reliability. The Ford Fusion is a stylish sedan that can also come equipped with an all-wheel drive.

This model year also has luxury options like cruise control and air conditioning. Choose between automatic or manual transmissions to suit your driving style.

2. 2011 Hyundai Elantra

A sedan that rates high in safety testing, the Elantra is a great used car for the teen in the family. There’s plenty of cabin room, fold-down rear seats, and excellent gas mileage.

The standard 1.8-liter engine produces 148-horsepower for a peppy ride. Your teen will drive with delight in a small sedan packed with standard features.

3. 2012 Hyundai Azera

If size, safety, and luxury are what you seek, this is the pre-owned vehicle for you. It’s unusual to find full-size used vehicles under 10K. But the Azera fills a lot of wish lists at a great price.

The Hyundai Azera got a new design in 2012, with extra features. Dual-zone climate control and a V6 engine are all part of the package.

4. 2015 Ford Fiesta

You might want a newer model pre-owned vehicle for your next adventure. Ford stopped making the Fiesta in 2019, but it still ranks high as a subcompact entry for best used vehicles.

The Ford Fiesta is agile and fuel-efficient that comes in both sedan and hatchback models. Either way, it’s another of the great used cars for the teen looking to get away in style.

5. 2011 Toyota Camry

Year after year, the Toyota Camry continues to deliver reliability and comfort. Winner of multiple awards, the Camry is consistently among the favorite used cars in San Antonio.

You can find this model in a variety of trim options and colors. There’s no better pre-owned vehicle for cargo and passenger space for a family outing.

Shop For Used Cars in San Antonio

There are lots of options to find used cars under 10K in San Antonio. Yet, if you want the best used vehicles with peace of mind, there’s no better place than Red McCombs.

Whether it’s great used cars the teen, or your next family pre-owned vehicle, contact us today. We’re here to help you get the best used vehicles you won’t find anywhere else.

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