Beauty Before Age?

Many drivers assume that a car’s age automatically determines how much it is worth at trade-in time. While year and mileage do influence value, they are not the whole story. In many cases, a newer vehicle with poor maintenance history can be worth less than an older vehicle that has been consistently cared for.

This is why service records play such a major role during trade-in evaluations.

Consistency Builds Confidence

Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and recommended maintenance create a clear picture of responsible ownership. When records show that a vehicle has been serviced on schedule, it signals reliability to future buyers and appraisers alike.

That history demonstrates not just care, but also peace of mind. Buyers want confidence that routine maintenance was never ignored.

Skipping Maintenance Lowers Value

Gaps in service history can create concerns, even if the vehicle feels fine during a short test drive. Inconsistent care can raise questions about long-term wear and potential repairs down the road.

Vehicles without maintenance documentation may still perform well, but less certainty often leads to more conservative appraisals.

Digital Records Count Too

Service history does not need to be stored in a physical folder. Many maintenance providers maintain digital records that can be referenced during evaluations. Online service logs, dealership service histories, and manufacturer databases often help verify past care.

If you do have physical receipts or printed service summaries, bringing them along can be helpful during your visit.

How History Affects Trade-In Offers

Two vehicles of the same year and mileage can receive different trade-in values simply based on service documentation. Consistent records reduce risk for future owners, and that added confidence is reflected in the appraisal.

If you are considering trading your vehicle, learning more about how the process works through the trade-in evaluation page is a good way to set expectations.

Preparing Your Records

• Gather receipts from oil changes and maintenance visits.
• Print digital service histories when possible.
• Keep any warranty or repair paperwork.
• Bring title or payoff information if applicable.

Preparation saves time and helps ensure that your vehicle is evaluated as accurately as possible.

Thinking Ahead

Even if you are not planning to trade right away, keeping organized maintenance records benefits your vehicle long-term. It improves reliability today and protects value for the future.

If you have questions about what documents to bring or how the appraisal process works, you can always reach out for assistance before your visit.

How to Decode Vehicle Safety Ratings and Why They Matter

When you’re shopping for a used vehicle, safety is usually near the top of the checklist — but figuring out what all the ratings actually mean can feel overwhelming. Star scores, test categories, and long feature lists sound technical, yet they’re all trying to answer one simple question: How well does this vehicle help protect you and your passengers? Once you understand how safety ratings work, they become one of the easiest tools to use when you’re comparing vehicles online or walking the lot.

Where Safety Ratings Come From

Safety ratings have been around since the late 1970s, when standardized crash testing started to give shoppers an easier way to compare vehicles. Over time, testing grew more detailed as cars became more advanced. Today, vehicles are evaluated for front and side crash protection, rollover resistance, structural strength, airbag and seat belt performance, and the effectiveness of modern safety technology. As vehicle design improves, testing standards continue to evolve. Newer vehicles are typically tested under tougher guidelines than older models, reflecting how safety expectations have climbed rather than suggesting older vehicles were unsafe. These ratings exist to give shoppers clear, unbiased insight when browsing dealership inventory like what you might find on our available vehicle listings.

What the Ratings Actually Mean

Most ratings use shopper-friendly scoring systems instead of complex engineering data. You’ll usually see star ratings that summarize overall safety performance along with category scores for things like frontal impact, side impact, and rollover protection. Some vehicles also earn recognition for strong results across multiple tests. Instead of focusing only on the overall score, it helps to look at individual categories too. Vehicles with similar overall ratings can perform differently in specific situations, which is why discussing details with a dealership specialist can be helpful when narrowing your choices.

Why Safety Ratings Matter for Used Vehicles

Once a vehicle is tested, its safety rating stays tied to that model year — even after it becomes pre-owned. That’s good news for used-car shoppers. Comparing ratings makes it easier to see which models were designed with stronger protection and which years introduced meaningful safety upgrades. When looking through multiple years of the same model in a dealership lineup, safety ratings can help you decide whether moving up to a newer year with added safety features is worth the investment.

Passive vs Active Safety Features

Passive safety features protect you during an accident. These include airbags, seat belts, reinforced frames, side-impact beams, and crumple zones engineered to absorb crash forces. These systems remain effective throughout a vehicle’s life and continue to provide protection even on older used vehicles.

Active safety features are designed to help prevent accidents before they occur. Common examples include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings or assistance, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, and adaptive cruise control. Many of these features became available in more recent model years, so newer used vehicles may offer technology that wasn’t common just a decade ago. Asking which safety systems are equipped on a specific vehicle is always a smart part of the shopping process.

How to Use Safety Ratings While Shopping

Safety ratings are most useful when applied thoughtfully during your search. Compare vehicles within similar size categories, review category-specific test results rather than only the overall score, and pay attention to which safety features are included by year and trim level. If you’re considering trading your current vehicle toward something newer or better equipped, checking both safety ratings and market value through our trade-in tool can help clarify your next step.

Your dealership’s staff can also walk you through safety details, vehicle history questions, and financing options available through our secure credit application. If you ever want additional product information or guidance while researching safety features and ratings, our team is just a message away via the contact page. You can also learn more about our approach to helping shoppers make informed decisions by visiting our About Us page or connect directly through our vehicle locator service.

Safety ratings provide a trusted foundation for smarter car buying. When combined with careful research, and the guidance of a knowledgeable dealership team, they help ensure you choose a vehicle that fits your budget, your driving needs, and the peace of mind you want every time you hit the road.

When you’re looking for a new car, it can be hard to find one that fits every need. If you’re looking for a combination of the perfect family vehicle and the perfect workhorse, then allow us to show you why a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 is the perfect choice.

2019 Chevy Silverado 1500

Stay Together

If you’re a fan of trucks, you know that they aren’t usually the most family friendly vehicles around. When you choose to drive a 2019 Silverado 1500, you’ll know that you can always bring your family along—with seating for six, everyone will have a spot. The teen driving mode also makes this the perfect teaching vehicle for your young drivers; You can use it to set speed limits or to enforce the wearing of a seatbelt. It will also compile a ‘report card’ when your teen returns home, providing you with information such as distance traveled, max speed, and any anti-lock brake incidents.

Stay Moving

If there’s one thing you need from a vehicle, it’s a way to get from A to B. On this front, Chevy’s got you covered; Offering a 24g max fuel capacity and a combined 17mpg rating, the Silverado 1500 can take you anywhere you need to go. Throw in a max tow rating of 7,500lbs, and you won’t just get where you’re going—You can take everything you might need with you.

Stay Connected

When you’re on the road, you need know that you can focus. The Chevy Silverado’s included touch screen monitor, Bluetooth connectivity, and hands-free phone function ensures you won’t be fumbling around looking for your cell when your eyes should be looking forward. With both USB and Type C port connections included, you can also make sure to keep your battery full while you’re on the go.

If the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 sounds like the perfect fit for you and your family, stop in and see at us at A&D Motors 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway Arab AL 35016, or just give us a call at 256-558-2276. We can’t wait to speak with you!

When you’re shopping for a new car, you’ve probably got a few keywords in mind: Words like convenient, safe, and versatile. If these are important features for you, then look no further! Let us show you why the 2009 Ford Edge needs to be your next ride.

2009 Ford Edge

Prioritize Convenience

Convenience is key—and there’s nothing more convenient than the Ford Edge. A tilting/telescoping steering wheel allows you to get the perfect placement for you. The rear window defroster will help you keep track of what’s going on behind you, even in the chilliest conditions. On a trip with the family and realize you need something from your luggage? Pass-through rear seats will allow you to reach your bags without having to step foot out of the vehicle.

Focus on Safety

When you’re behind the wheel, you need to be able to keep your thoughts on the road and not on the what-ifs. Ford has made that easy for you in the Edge. Electronic Stability Control combined with All Wheel Drive will help keep your car straight on the road, even if you start to waver. If the worst does happen, the SOS Post Crash Alert System will unlock your doors, flash your lights, and sound off the horn, making it easier for first responders to find and assist you.

Suitable Every Day

The Edge isn’t just the best choice for traveling; it would also be the perfect daily driver. With enough seating for 5, a combined 19mpg, and 69 cu/ft of potential storage space, your new vehicle is going to breeze through meeting your every need. With this all-around powerhouse in your garage, you can rest assured that you’re ready for whatever life gives you.

Ready to take a test drive and start a new chapter in your journeys? Stop in and see us at A&D Motors at 503 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016, or just give us a call at 256-586-2276. We can’t wait to see you!

Horsepower vs. Torque: What Truck Buyers Should Focus On

Shopping for a truck means comparing a lot of numbers, and two of the most important are horsepower and torque. These specs are listed on almost every truck page, yet many buyers are unsure what they truly mean for towing, hauling, or everyday driving. Understanding how they work makes choosing the right truck much easier.

What Is Horsepower?

Horsepower shows how quickly an engine can keep a truck moving once it is up to speed. You will feel horsepower most when:

• Merging onto the highway with confidence
• Passing slower vehicles while towing at speed
• Keeping a full truck or trailer steady on long road trips

If your driving includes long stretches of highway or frequent acceleration, horsepower should be a key part of your decision. You can explore a variety of trucks suited for everyday driving here: View All Vehicles.

What Is Torque?

Torque measures the twisting force an engine produces to get weight moving from a stop. You will notice torque most when:

• Pulling a trailer up a boat ramp
• Getting a loaded work truck going at a jobsite
• Climbing steep hills or rough terrain

Stronger torque makes a truck feel like it has muscle right where you need it. If you want a truck built for heavy tasks, you can request help finding one with the right torque using our Vehicle Finder Service.

How Horsepower and Torque Work Together

Torque gets the load moving. Horsepower keeps it moving. Trucks with the best balance can tow confidently while still feeling smooth and responsive during everyday driving.

Understanding RPM and Power Curves

Engines do not make maximum power all the time. Torque peaks at lower RPMs, which is perfect for getting a boat or trailer moving from a standstill. Horsepower peaks at higher RPMs, which helps when you need a quick burst of acceleration while already cruising. A truck built for towing usually emphasizes low-RPM torque to feel stronger under load.

Why Transmissions Matter

Transmissions control how power reaches the wheels. A lower first gear ratio multiplies torque, making it easier to pull away with heavy loads. Transmissions with more gears help keep the engine in its “sweet spot” for power and fuel efficiency.

Simple guidance:

• Tow or haul often: choose lower gear ratios for easier starts
• More highway commuting: choose gearing tuned for fuel economy at speed
• Mixed driving: look for multi-gear transmissions that adapt well to both

Different Engine Types

• Diesel engines: excellent low-RPM torque for heavy equipment towing
• Gas engines: smoother acceleration and strong horsepower for daily use
• Turbocharged engines: great mix of torque and horsepower efficiency
• Hybrid and electric motors: instant torque for quick, controlled pulling starts

Electric Truck Considerations

Electric trucks deliver maximum torque instantly, which feels powerful when backing a trailer or pulling up steep ramps. Regenerative braking helps recover energy when slowing down with a load. Range can drop faster under heavy towing, so selecting a larger battery pack helps maintain travel distance on long trips or hilly terrain.

Payload vs. Towing: Know the Difference

Payload is weight in the truck. Towing is weight behind it. These ratings are separate for a reason:

A truck excellent at towing might not carry lots of weight in the bed. Knowing both numbers prevents overloading.

GCWR: The Safety Number Most People Miss

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) measures how much total weight the truck and trailer can safely move together. Exceeding it can affect braking, handling, and drivetrain health even if the engine seems strong enough.

Which Matters More for You?

Choose based on what you do most:

• Heavy towing or jobsite equipment: torque first
• High-speed travel and acceleration: horsepower first
• Work during the week, play on weekends: a balanced setup

If you are upgrading to a truck that better suits your needs, a quick estimate on your current trade can help you plan your budget: Value Your Trade.

How Environment Affects Power Needs

• Mountains: stronger torque prevents slowing down on climbs
• Snow or soft ground: more torque helps maintain momentum
• Hot climates: engines work harder under load, so performance headroom helps

Flat city commuting often requires less torque and places more importance on comfort and fuel savings.

Common Truck-Buying Pitfalls to Avoid

• Picking a truck that barely meets today’s needs and needing to upgrade again soon
• Looking only at towing and forgetting payload rating constraints
• Ignoring terrain and climate when choosing power levels

Planning for the future often prevents the most expensive mistake: buying twice.

Quick Checklist Before You Buy

• How heavy are the loads you tow or haul?
• City, highway, or jobsite. Where do you drive most?
• Will conditions include hills, dirt, snow, or sand?
• Do you prefer stronger acceleration or stronger pulling strength?
• Do you need 4x4 for traction under load?

Explore and Compare Options

Once you understand what horsepower and torque mean for your everyday needs, you can explore a wide range of trucks and compare their strengths here: Brows Our Inventory.

Horsepower and torque both matter for capability, comfort, and confidence behind the wheel. When you focus on how you will actually use your truck, the right numbers become much easier to choose. Whether you need work strength, road-trip speed, or a blend of both, the best truck is the one that fits your real life.

There’s a chill in the air, and that can only mean one thing—Christmas is coming! For many children, this is the most exciting time of the year. Time off school, quality time with family, good food, and, of course, presents!

But for a lot of children, Christmas isn’t a guarantee. For parents who are facing financial difficulties, it can be a struggle to find the funds to make the holidays special for their children. In the community of Baileyton, Alabama, Parkside Outreach Program is stepping up to help these families create magical memories for their children.

2025 will be the 8^th year of Parkside’s Christmas Coalition. If you’re interested in helping make the holidays a festive time for all the children in our community and surrounding areas, you can ‘Adopt an Angel’ for only $25! Monetary donations can be made in person or through PayPal, with the link located here.

You could also contribute any unused, unopened toys by bringing them to Parkside Outreach Program Thrift Store, located at 12756 AL Highway 69 N Baileyton AL 35019 or the affiliated car lot A&D Motors at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway Arab AL 35016.

Affiliated donation boxes for toys can also be found at Friend’s Auction House at 4177 Hwy 231 Laceys Spring AL 35754 and the Baileyton Dollar General located at 13600 AL-69 N Baileyton AL 35019.

If you’d like to sign up a child in need, who lives within 10 miles of Baileyton AL, you can print and fill out the sign-up form and turn it in in person at either Parkside Thrift Store or A&D Motors. If you’d rather help by volunteering your time, or if you have any questions about the program, you can fill out the contact form here.

If you work a trade job, you already know that storage is key. Your tools are your livelihood, and, let’s face it, they’re not cheap! The last thing you want to do is to throw all of your equipment into a cramped and inappropriate space, leaving it susceptible to damage. That’s why you need to make the 2014 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Van your next ride.

2014 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Van

Leave Nothing Behind

With an impressive 270.4 cu/ft of storage space, this van is going to have more than enough room to hold everything you need to get the job done. Coupled with a 280-horsepower rating, you won’t need to worry about the added weight dragging you down—The GMC Savana has you covered.

Get There Safe

If you travel a lot for your job, you’ve probably taken to relying heavily on your phone’s GPS. The Savana’s Bluetooth Wireless Connectivity ensures you won’t miss a turn. The cruise control feature can help keep you steady on those long drives. Hands-Free phone and steering wheel controls mean you can keep your hands on the wheel and your mind on the road while you travel.

Get the Job Done

Have you ever found yourself on the job site and realized you forgot to charge something vital? The Savana’s included 12v power outlet means you won’t have to stop until the work is done. When your day is coming to a close and you want nothing more than to head straight home, remote engine start means you can have your van comfortable and ready to go as soon as you sit down. Remote keyless entry means you won’t even have to pause to dig out your keys—just jump in and drive!

Does the 2014 GMC Savana sound like just the tool you need for your job? Stop in for a test drive with A&D Motors at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016 today! If you have any more questions, just give us a call at 256-586-2276 and we’d be happy to help you out.

A truck can be a valuable tool. We use them to haul and tow; We use them for work and play. A truck can make a big difference in your day-to-day life. If you’re in the market for a truck that can do it all, then we’ve got the perfect fit for you—the 2010 Suzuki Equator.

Get Things Done in the 2010 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab

Carry More

When you think of a good truck, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the hauling capacity. When you choose to drive a Suzuki Equator, you’re choosing effortless mobility. Sporting a 5ft bed and a maximum 6100lb towing capacity, this truck is ready and waiting to take anything you need, anywhere you need.

Travel More

With a combined 16mpg rating and a 21.1-gallon fuel capacity, this truck is ready to go above and beyond for you. A built-in navigation system means you can take the road less traveled and not worry about finding your way back home. So, whether you’re traveling for work, gearing up for a weekend away, or simply running errands around town, the Suzuki has your back.

Share More

With included seating for 5 in the crew cab edition of the 2010 Equator, you’ll have plenty of room to bring your friends and family along for the ride. And with a CD player, satellite radio, and integrated Bluetooth connectivity, you won’t have to worry about filling any awkward silences along the way—even if you stray from the beaten path.

Do you feel like the 2010 Suzuki Equator Crew Cab is the perfect fit for all of your needs? If so, just give A&D Motors a call at 256-586-2276, or stop in and see us at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. We’re excited to help you out!

The Thanksgiving Tree: A Month of Giving Back

Autumn is finally here! The weather is cooling, the leaves are falling, and the holidays are just around the corner. Throughout history, people have used the chilly season as a time to gather together, to reflect on the year behind us, and to celebrate as we move towards the new year ahead. It’s a time of comfort, familiarity, and togetherness.

This year, we here at A&D Motors wanted to show our appreciation for the fantastic community around us. We have partnered with Warehouse Discount Grocery of Arab to provide gift vouchers to our wonderful neighbors, just in time for Thanksgiving!

If you want the chance to be included in this opportunity, or if you know someone else who could benefit, you can put in all entries at A&D Motors, located at 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. A drawing will be held every Friday in November.

Our cars are a big part of our lives; For many of us driving is a daily task. Whether you’re going to work, shopping, or on a trip, you want to be sure that your vehicle can get you there and back. There are things you can do to help make sure your car stays safe and reliable. Keeping up with regular maintenance can extend the lifespan and performance of your vehicle. But what, exactly, is regular maintenance? We’re here to make it simple for you.

Maintaining Your Car

Check Your Oil

Probably the most well-known tip for any driver, you’ll want to keep an eye on your oil. A good rule of thumb is to have your oil changed every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. You should also check your oil levels at least once a month, or if you hear knocking sounds or notice a decrease in performance while driving—these are signs of low oil.

Replace Your Air Filter

When it comes to your air filter, you should typically plan on replacing it once a year or after driving 10,000 miles. The environments you drive in can impact the life of the filter, however. If you frequently drive down dusty roads or through heavy traffic idles, you should probably replace your filter twice a year or after 5,000 miles.

Test Your Tires

At least once per month, you’ll want to check the air pressure in your tires. If you’re not sure how much pressure is ideal, you can check your owner’s manual for your vehicle. In the winter, remember that cold air can cause a loss of air in your tires. You’ll also want to keep an eye on your tread and watch for any signs of thinning. Rotating your tires at least twice a year can help keep the regular wear-and-tear balanced and extend the lifespan of your wheels.

Watch Your Lights

You may only need to change your lights when they go out, but you don’t want to wait until you’re driving home in the dark to realize that one of them has died. A good practice would be to test all of your lights once a month. Make sure that you’re checking your blinkers and brake lights as well as your headlights and taillights.

You may also want to take your car once a year to have your spark plugs, transmission fluid, coolant, and belts checked. If you do all of these things, your car should stay healthy and mobile for a good long while.

In the market for a vehicle to test these tips on? Give A&D Motors a call at 256-586-2276 or stop in 501 North Brindlee Mountain Parkway, Arab AL 35016. We’d love to help you find your next ride!