In honor of Women’s History Month, we proudly recognize the contributions of women across our organization.

Commercial truck retail offers many incredible career opportunities for women.  Today, we’re excited to highlight two women who are successfully blazing trails at Premier Truck Group:  Ally Rocha and Deanna LaFranca.  Both women were semi-finalists in this year’s NADA Women Driving Auto Retail contest.

Ally Rocha, a Finance Manager in Dallas, has been with Premier Truck Group for 13 years. Her role involves working with customers and lenders to get the best deal on financing, including submitting credit applications and lots of face time with her customers.  “Some advice that I would give to a woman looking for a career path is to not overlook the trucking industry,” said Rocha. “I think any woman would enjoy working in the trucking industry.”

Deanna LaFranca joined the truck industry by chance, when she heard about a position opening through word of mouth. Starting in inventory, she worked her way through the department where she is now a Parts Manager in Midland, Texas. She has been with Premier Truck Group for almost eight years, and she lauds how the retail truck industry offers plenty of opportunities.  LaFranca stated, “the heavy-duty truck retail industry is a great career path for anybody because everything that we own or use is brought in by truck.  It’s not going anywhere. It’s a great opportunity and great field for anyone to get into.”

We appreciate the hard work and dedication that both women have brought to Premier Truck Group, and we celebrate all the women that support our retail commercial truck businesses worldwide.

Click here to learn more about their journeys and the advice they would give to women considering a career in the trucking industry.

As a car owner, you know how important it is to maintain your vehicle to ensure it is always in top condition. However, even with proper maintenance, unexpected issues can occur, such as a flat tire. If you find yourself in this situation, there are steps you should take to ensure your safety and get back on the road as soon as possible.

 

Step 1: Find a Safe Location to Stop

If you notice your tire is flat while driving, the first step is to find a safe location to pull over. If you are on the highway, look for the nearest rest stop or gas station. In a residential area, try to find a safe spot away from traffic.

 

Step 2: Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Once you have pulled over, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle is not moving. This will make it easier for a tow truck or mechanic to find you if needed.

 

Step 3: Assess the Damage

Look at the tire to determine if it can be repaired or needs to be replaced. If the damage is significant or the tire is completely flat, you will need to replace it. However, if the damage is minor, a repair may be possible.

 

Step 4: Call for Assistance

If you do not have a spare tire or are uncomfortable changing it, it is best to call for assistance. Many dealers and insurance companies offer roadside assistance and can send a technician to help you. If you have a membership with a service like AAA, they can also assist.

 

Step 5: Have the Tire Repaired or Replaced

Once you have a technician on the way, you can begin thinking about repairing or replacing the tire. If you have a spare tire, you can use it to get to your dealer or tire shop to have the damaged tire replaced. If not, the technician will bring a new tire with them and replace the damaged one on the spot.

 

Step 6: Prevent Future Flats

Once your tire has been repaired or replaced, it is essential to take steps to prevent your tires from becoming flat in the future. Regular tire maintenance, such as checking the air pressure and rotating your tires, can help extend the life of your tires. Additionally, avoiding debris and rough roads can also help prevent tire damage.

 

(Credit: porschechantilly.com)

This week, we highlight our Penske Automotive Dealerships in the Western region, and their collective support and recognition of the importance of Black History Month.

The Western region includes Penske Automotive dealerships in Phoenix, Texas and Southern California.  This February, they jointly donated $20,000 to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

From left, Tristan Topps; HR Manager, Arizona Management, Dave Wallace; AVP Arizona Management and Elizabeth Keller; Area HR Manager, Arizona Management hold the donation check for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

 

The United Negro College Fund’s mission is to build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of under-represented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly-qualified college graduates and to ensure that their network of member institutions is a respected model of best practice in moving students to and through college.

In addition, several employees contributed to a charitable organization of their choice in honor of Black History Month.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A car tool kit can be very useful for any car owner. We’ve listed 10 of the best items to keep in your tool kit in case of emergencies.

1. Duct Tape

Duct tape is one of the most versatile components in any tool kit. Its strong adhesive and waterproofing make it suitable for a huge variety of uses. You can use the tape to insulate two wires joined together, temporarily reattach a damaged side mirror, or even form a cup to drink out of.

2. Set of Wrenches

Wrenches are available in numerous sizes, and we recommend purchasing a set with a variety of sizes to fit the nuts and bolts in your car. Most car parts are connected by nuts and bolts. A handy wrench can save you time waiting for help. Sometimes you can temporarily fix a problem by simply tightening a bolt.

3. Set of Screwdrivers

Any car parts that aren’t connected by nuts and bolts use screws. Choose a set of screwdrivers that includes flat, Phillips, Torx, and square heads in several different sizes. This will ensure that you have the right screwdriver for any job. If possible, get a set with easy grip handles, as this makes working with a screwdriver very convenient.

4. Jumper Cables

Jumper cables are essential for your tool kit as they allow you to get another car battery working again very quickly. Most drivers don’t carry jumper cables, and if you have a set you can quickly get your friend or family member on the road again. We advise choosing the longest cables possible as they allow you options if you can’t park directly facing the other car’s hood.

5. Flashlight

A powerful flashlight can mean the difference between driving away or waiting for a repair or tow. Problems can happen at any time, and it’s extremely difficult to fix even a small problem at night without any light. It’s advisable to keep spare batteries for the flashlight. In addition, a flashlight that is adjustable or has a hanging feature is preferable. This will allow you to use both hands to fix a problem.

6. Water

Although strictly speaking it is not a tool, you should keep water as part of a toolkit. It can, for example, enable you to clean most substances or temporarily refill your cooling system. It’s also good to have water available if you have to wait for assistance to keep yourself hydrated.

7. Gloves and Warm Clothing

Wearing gloves and other warm clothing will make the task of clearing your car easier. It also doesn’t hurt to keep a few hand warmers in your car as well.

8. Blanket

Have an extra blanket around your house? Put one in your car. If you get standard or get in a crash, it will get cold fast, especially if your car won’t turn on.

9. Cell Phone Charger

Try to keep your phone charged before hitting the road, but always keep a cell phone charger in your car as well. You will need your phone to call for assistance if you are stuck or involved in a car crash.

10. Non-Perishable Snacks

If you get stranded, you may have to wait for assistance. Storing snacks in your car will come in handy in these situations. Some non-perishable snacks include granola bars, nuts, jerky and raisins, and remember to store them in a cool, dry location of your car.

 

(Modified article credit: www.porschechantilly.com)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s a nightmare for any driver when you try and start your car and nothing happens. It could be time or damage that can prevent an engine from starting immediately. We have listed a few possible reasons why your car won’t start and what you can do.

 

Dead Battery

Every driver probably experiences a dead battery at least once. A battery has a useful life of three to five years before it wears out. The chemical reactions that allow your battery to store energy will eventually cause it to fail. If you try and start your car and hear a clicking noise, your battery is the most likely culprit.

The battery must have enough charge to power the starter motor, which cranks your car. The clicking sound means the starter motor is trying to crank but isn’t receiving enough power. In this situation, a jump start is the best way to get your car mobile again so your technician can identify the problem. Once your car receives power from a jump start, the alternator will power your car long enough to get you to your service department.

Starter Motor

The battery charges the starter motor. This charge activates the start solenoid. The solenoid powers the starter, which then cranks the engine. If you don’t hear clicking from your car when you try and start it, this is a sign that the starter has failed. Unfortunately, a damaged starter will prevent your car from starting, and can’t be bypassed with a jump start.

Your technician will need to examine the starter motor. A damaged starter can be repaired, depending on the reason for the failure. A worn solenoid, for example, can be quickly replaced to resolve this problem.

Blocked Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter removes dangerous chemicals before they’re expelled from your exhaust. Over time carbon can build up in the converter and block it. A blocked converter forces the exhaust gases back into your engine.

If your engine starts and then dies in a few seconds, a blocked converter is the most likely cause. The flow of exhaust gases back into your engine chokes the engine and prevents the spark plugs from firing. Your technician should be able to easily clear the blockage to fix this problem.

If your car won’t start, the most important thing is to get it examined ASAP.

(Credit: porschewestbroward.com)

The NADA Women Driving Auto Retail contest is back for its sixth year, and we’re excited to congratulate the three Penske Automotive employees selected as semi-finalist in this year’s competition.

Women Driving Auto Retail celebrates all women who work in the country’s more than 18,000 car or truck dealerships. The contest aims to magnify the voices of women working in the automotive industry, as well as increase opportunities for women by providing dealers with the proper tools and expertise.

Contest submissions share the women’s experience, how their dealership career journey began, and their advice for other women considering a career in the automotive industry.

Click below to view the videos for our semi-finalists, Hamida Ali-Miller, Deanna LaFranca and Ally Rocha.

 

Hamida Ali-Miller, Warranty Specialist, Atlanta Toyota

 

Deanna LaFranca, Parts Manager, Premiere Truck Group of Midland

 

Ally Rocha, Financial Services Manager, Premiere Truck Group of Dallas

 

Congratulations to all those who entered the contest and to our semi-finalists!

The grand-prize winner will be announced at Live Stage at NADA Show 2023 on Saturday, Jan. 28th. Click here for more information.

Have you recently had your vehicle inspected? If it’s been a while, or if this is your first time getting a car inspection, there are a few things you’ll want to have checked. Your local dealer can help with that!

 

Bumpers

Bumpers are one of a car’s most critical safety features, yet they are often overlooked during routine maintenance checks. They are made of metal or plastic and are situated at the front and back of the vehicle.

Bumpers are attached to the frame of the car with bolts or brackets. Over time, they can become loose or damaged. If they are not adequately secured, they can cause severe damage to the car during a collision. A good mechanic will examine the bumpers as part of a safety inspection to ensure they are secure and in good shape.

Clutch (if manual transmission)

The clutch allows the driver to engage and disengage the engine from the wheels and is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. If the clutch is not maintained correctly, it can cause the car to slip or jerk when shifting gears, which can be dangerous.

In addition, a worn clutch can also make it difficult to change gears, and it can eventually lead to transmission failure. Therefore, it is essential to have the clutch checked regularly as part of a car’s safety inspection.

Mirrors

Mirrors are crucial in helping drivers drive safely, and they should be checked during a safety inspection. There are various types of mirrors, including rearview mirrors, side mirrors, and blind spot mirrors. Rearview mirrors give drivers a view of the cars behind them, while side mirrors provide a view of the cars next to and behind them. Blind spot mirrors help drivers see cars in their blind spots.

All three types of mirrors are essential for safety and should be inspected regularly to ensure they are clean and debris-free. In addition, any cracks or chips on the mirror surface should be repaired to avoid glare and distortion.

Engine Oil

Engine oil is essential for keeping a car’s engine running smoothly and efficiently. Over time, engine oil degrades and becomes contaminated with dirt, debris, and other materials. If this contamination is not removed, it can cause the engine to wear down prematurely and experience performance problems. As a result, it is crucial to have the engine oil changed regularly during a car safety inspection.

Maintaining your car’s health is crucial if you want to prevent any significant issues in the future.

(Credit: porschewestbroward.com)

Are you looking for ways to afford a high-quality car this year? Getting financing is one of the best things you can do. To get the best rates for your car loan, there are a few things that you should keep in mind.

 

Get It From the Right Place

Where you get car financing from is going to affect the overall quality of your experience. This is why it’s important to do your research and get your loan from the right place.

So where exactly is the right place? Your best bet is to get your financing straight from your dealership. Dealers work with multiple lending partners including large national banks and local credit unions and can match your purchase with the best financing option. This flexibility and lender competition will help you get the best rates and ensure that the process of getting financing is as smooth as possible.

Maintain a Good Credit Score

A low credit score won’t stop you from getting a loan for your car, but it might mean that your interest rates are higher than you’d like. That’s because a low credit score indicates that you’re a higher risk. Keeping your score high will help you get the best rates.

That said if you’re looking for an effective way to boost your score, getting vehicle financing is a great option. Since they’re easy for almost anyone to get and paying your monthly payments on time helps prove you are trustworthy, vehicle financing can quickly boost your overall credit score.

Make As Big a Down Payment As Possible

When you get financing for your car, you’ll only need to put down a portion of the car’s total cost as your down payment. Many dealerships will even give you the option of putting down 0% as your down payment.

However, to keep your monthly payments reasonable, it’s a good idea to put down at least a portion. Ideally, you should be putting down at least 20% of the car’s total cost.

Make Your Payments on Time

Once you have your loan, you’ll start making your monthly payments. If you miss one or two payments because you didn’t have the funds or simply because you forgot, that’s usually nothing to worry about.

However, you don’t want to make a habit out of this. Not only will you be lowering your credit score if you do this, but you may also incur some hefty fees. Keep yourself in good financial health by paying your car payments on time.

Getting financing for your car will ensure that you can afford a quality car that’s going to last you a long time. Remember to visit your dealer to get the best financing rates.

(Credit: porschechantilly.com)