Author: Rae
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Texas Auto
We are five days away from the most romantic day of the year- Valentine’s Day! Is your vehicle equipped for this special day? Here are a few features that will ensure your vehicle plays part of your Valentine’s plans with your special someone.
Locking Center Console
Nothing says romance like a locking center console. Stick the jewelry for your special someone in the console, lock it up, and don’t worry about it before pulling it out when the time is right.
Bluetooth Audio
Set the right mood with a playlist of romantic songs. Sync your phone or music player to your car and you can hear exactly what you want, when you want, without major hassle. Bluetooth Audio is offered in many Texas Auto vehicles- 2015 BMW 328i Sedan, 2015 Ram 1500 SLT Truck Quad Cab, 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk SUV, and more…
Heated Seats
In most climates, February is accompanied by cold temperatures, snow, or freezing rain! Heated seats can’t quite match up to cuddling in front of a fire, but they’ll keep you warm until you can get there. You and your date will be nice and cozy enjoying the heated leather seats in this 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E350 Sedan.
Convertible Top
If you’re lucky enough to live in the Houston area, there’s no better feature for Valentine’s Day than a convertible top! No cold weather or snow in Houston so put the top down and enjoy the moonlight. This Moonlight White 2014 Infiniti Sport Convertible is perfect for the occasion!
Feel the love this Valentine’s Day at Texas Auto. If you have questions about our used car inventory or our service center contact us!
TEXAS AUTO BIG GAME – TV GIVEAWAY OFFICIAL RULES
TEXAS AUTO
BIG GAME – TV GIVEAWAY
OFFICIAL RULES
YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN. NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.
- Texas Auto Contest (“Contest”) is open only to individuals who are eighteen (18) years old or older and are legal residents of the United States. The following individuals are not eligible to enter or win a prize: employees, contractors, directors, and officers of Texas Auto (“Sponsor”), their respective parent, subsidiary, and affiliated companies, legal or financial advisors, distributors, web design, advertising, fulfillment, judging and promotion agencies involved in the administration, development, fulfillment and execution of this Contest (collectively, “Contest Parties”), and the immediate family members (spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, and spouse or “step”) of each and those living in the same household of each such person (those persons whether related or not who live in the same residence for at least three months during the twelve-‐month period preceding the start date of the Contest).
- CONTEST PERIOD. Contest begins on Wednesday February 1, 2017 at 1:30pm CST and ends on Saturday February 4, 2017 at 6:00pm CST (the “Entry Period”). Sponsor’s computer is the official time keeping device for the Contest.
- HOW TO ENTER. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY AND NO ENTRY FEE, PAYMENT OR PROOF OF PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO PARTICIPATE. To enter, entrants must comply with the following entry requirements (“Entry Requirements”): (1) Complete entry form at any Texas Auto location. Entrants who comply with the Entry Requirements will receive one (1) entry. Compliance with the Entry Requirements will be determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion. One (1) entry per person during the Entry Period. Multiple Entries from the same person will be disqualified at Sponsor’s sole discretion. Submissions that violate, as determined by the Sponsor, in its sole discretion, these Entry Requirements or do not meet the submission deadlines will be disqualified from the Contest.
- DRAWING AND ODDS OF WINNING: Winner will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries received prior to the drawing time to be held on or about Saturday February 4, 2017 at 6:00pm CST at Texas Auto. The drawing will be conducted by a Sponsor representative, whose decisions shall be final and binding on all matters relating to the Contest. MUST. BE PRESENT TO WIN. If the winning entrant is not present, the entries will be redrawn until the prize is awarded to an entrant present during the drawing. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received prior to the drawing date and time.
- One (1) prize will be awarded: LED HDTV; approximate retail value $133. This prize carries no warranty other than that offered by the manufacturer. Sponsor has neither made nor is responsible or liable for any warranty, representation, or guarantee, express or implied, in fact or in law, relative to the prize, including but not limited to its quality, mechanical conditions, or fitness for a particular purpose. Winner agrees to look solely to the manufacturer for any such warranty, representation, or guarantee. Prize is non-‐transferable and no cash redemption or prize substitution is permitted, except at the sole discretion of the Sponsor. If the prize cannot be awarded for any reason, Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to substitute the prize with one of comparable or greater value. The winner is solely responsible for all federal, state, local, or other applicable taxes associated with the acceptance and use of the prize. All costs and expenses associated with prize acceptance and use not specifically provided herein are the responsibility of the winner.
- PRIZE CLAIM. Winner is subject to verification, including verification of age and US residency. If winner present at drawing is determined to be ineligible, prize may be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected.
- BY SUBMITTING AN ENTRY, ENTRANT ACKNOWLEDGES THAT HIS/HER ENTRY CONTENT, TWITTER or FACEBOOK HANDLE, AND/OR PHOTO MAY BE POSTED ACROSS ANY OR ALL OF SPONSOR’S DIGITAL AND SOCIAL MEDIA ASSETS, AT SPONSOR’S SOLE DISCRETION AT ANY TIME. By entering the Contest, entrant grants Sponsor and its agents the worldwide, royalty-‐free, non-‐exclusive and sub-‐ licensable right and license to use, distribute, reproduce, modify, adapt, translate, publicly perform and publicly display entrant’s entry content, Twitter or Facebook handle, and/or photo in any way, at any time, in any and all media, including for use in advertising and marketing, without limitation, without any additional approval or consent of, and without consideration to the entrant.
- LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND RELEASE. No liability or responsibility is assumed by Sponsor or Contest Parties (collectively, “Releases”) resulting from any individual’s participation in or attempt to participate in the Contest.
- SPONSOR’S RESERVATION OF RIGHTS. If the Contest is not capable of running as planned for any reason, including without limitation, due to force majeure or infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of the Contest, Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual who is responsible or who tampers with the entry process or otherwise acts in violation of these Official Rules, and to cancel, modify, or terminate the Contest. In the event of cancellation, Sponsor will award the prizes in a drawing from among all eligible, non-‐suspect entries received prior to cancellation. In the event that an entry is confirmed to have been erroneously deleted, lost or destroyed, entrant’s sole remedy shall be another entry into the Contest.
- Information collected from entrants is subject to Sponsor’s privacy policy.
- WINNER’S LIST. For the name of the winner, send a self-‐addressed, stamped envelope to Texas Auto, 16200 Highway 3, Webster, TX 77598, Attn: R. Millican. Requests must be received no later than sixty (60) days after the end of the Entry Period.
Keeping Car Mileage Tax Records
It’s possible to get a tax deduction for car mileage if the vehicle is used for business purposes, charitable services, medical purposes and moving or relocating. If the vehicle is only used for business purposes, the complete cost of operating the vehicle can be deducted but if the vehicle is used for both personal and business purposes, only costs incurred for business use of the vehicle may be deducted.
- It’s essential that you maintain records of car mileage and the expenses incurred in order to get the tax deduction.
- Start noting the odometer reading from the date you start using your car for business purposes. Note the date, number of miles driven and the purpose for which the car was driven.
- Also note the expenses incurred for each trip, be it expenses for driving the car or maintaining it. Note the date, the amount and the type of expense incurred. Also keep the receipts of all such expenses filed properly.
- The expenses can include gasoline, oil change, parking fees, repairs, car insurance, toll fees and car registration fees.
- You have to maintain records of any reimbursements related to car expenses you receive from your employer.
- At the end of the year, calculate the business miles travelled in the year and the expenses incurred for business related purposes for the same duration. Also calculate your reimbursements received.
- Use this information when you prepare your income tax returns and be careful to keep your records for at least three years before discarding them.
- The IRS also allows small engine tax credit and this can be used to your advantage if you have a hybrid car, electric car or any other vehicle with a small engine.
We hope you’ve found this helpful. We want to see you get the most for your tax refund, so stop by Texas Auto to browse our used cars this tax season.
What is distracted driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that could divert a person’s attention away from the primary task of driving. All distractions endanger driver, passenger, and bystander safety. These types of distractions include:
- Texting
- Using a cell phone or smartphone
- Eating and drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Grooming
- Reading, including maps
- Using a navigation system
- Watching a video
- Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
But, because text messaging requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention from the driver, it is by far the most alarming distraction.
According to a study by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI), sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent of driving blind at 55-mph for the length of an entire football field.
FOR YOUR SAFETY, TEXAS AUTO RECOMMENDS THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES WHEN DRIVING:
- Don’t write, send or read a text message while driving, even when stopped at a red light or in traffic. These actions put you, and those around you, in danger.
- Turn off your cell phone and put it in your pocket. Wait to use the device once you are safely and legally parked.
- Don’t text while running, cycling or participating in other recreational sports.
Distraction.gov is your resource for learning more about distracted driving. Get the facts, get involved, and help us keep America’s roadways safe. Texas Auto encourages you to drive safely. If you have questions about our used car inventory or our service center contact us!
4 Reasons to Buy a Used Car
When your buying a car there are a lot of things to consider: how much do you want to pay, what car do you want, what technology features are important to you. Below are four benefits of buying a used car over a brand new one.
- Affordability! One of the best reasons to buy used is the lower cost. On average, the price gap between new and used vehicles is around $20,000.
- Wider Vehicle Selection! When looking at used cars at Texas Auto, you’ll have a much wider vehicle selection from which to choose- spanning many years, models, color choices, and trims.
- More Info and Improved Technology! The Internet has changed the way people shop for used cars. Finding what you want is easier than ever. Texas Auto has a user-friendly website and supportive staff to provide you with detailed information before you buy. Plus, with sites like Kelly Blue Book, it’s easy to stay informed about what you’re getting.
- Less Worry and More Fun! Buying used often means less stress. Many drivers find it easier to simply kick back and enjoy their new ride when it’s used.
New cars smell great, but how much is that scent really worth? From the initial price to the long-term costs, you’ll thank yourself for buying a used car that’s in good condition. Come by Texas Auto and talk to our knowledgeable and friendly sales team.
New Year = New You!
A new year provides a chance to move in a new direction and leave behind old habits. Most people drop their New Year’s resolutions after a couple of months. Don’t be one of those people! You can give your resolutions endurance by making lifestyle changes to support them. One such change can be your next vehicle! If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you can choose a vehicle that supports your goals for the new year! Below you will find some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions and a Texas Auto vehicle that supports each one.
GET IN SHAPE
One of the best ways to get fit is to get outdoors! Indulge your inner weekend warrior and pick up a surfboard, go biking, or hit the running trails! With its go anywhere versatility and roomy practicality the 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport SUV is up for tackling any of your adventures. The roof rack is ready to accommodate all your gear.
MORE FAMILY TIME
Many of us spend more time at the office than we do with our family. Strengthening family relationships is a goal of many. The 2014 Infiniti QX80 Base SUV encourages family togetherness. Whether you’re taking a family road trip or driving your little one to soccer practice the QX80 has the space and comfort your family needs.
REDUCE STRESS
Working long stressful days can suck the joy out of life, but there are ways to defeat it. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Z51 Convertible is your go-to car for pleasure-filled living! With its remarkable handling it turns every commute into something extraordinary.
VOLUNTEER MORE
Giving back brings many benefits. It allows you to support a charity you believe in and meet new friends. The 2013 Ford F-150 FX2 Truck Super Crew Cab offers everything you need for volunteer activity. So much room to transport toys to children in need or taking meals to the elderly! This truck also saves money at the pump if your volunteer work requires lots of driving.
Road Rage and Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is becoming a major problem on our roadways, and it seems to be worse during the holiday season. Incidents of rude gestures, screaming, and violence are reported frequently on our roadways. Texas Auto wants you to know how you can help keep our roads safe from road rage.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines road rage as when a driver “commits moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property; an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger of one motor vehicle on the operator or passengers of another motor vehicle”.
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, it is possible you may be prone to road rage:
- Do you honk your horn often?
- Do you ever use obscene gestures to other drivers?
- Do you tailgate drivers you believe are driving too slow?
- Do you drive over the speed limit?
Many times when people are under stress in other areas of their life a road rage incident can occur.
You may be causing others to lash out with road rage. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you text or talk on your phone while driving?
- Regardless of oncoming traffic, do you keep you high beams on?
- Do you not use your turn signal when switching lanes or making turns?
- Do you cut people off because you fail to check your blind spot before switching lanes?
If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you may be contributing to road rage in others. It is best to always be aware of other drivers and drive cautiously.
There are a few steps you can take to ensure you and/or other drivers won’t be tempted into road rage.
- Listen to soothing music when you drive.
- Always remember that you are sharing the road.
- Keep space between yourself and other drivers.
- Do not make obscene gestures at other drivers.
If you find that you have angered another driver, whether the fault is truly yours or not, be the bigger person. This helps everyone! If you’re in imminent danger always call the police.
If you are caught engaging in road rage, you could be charged with a criminal offense. That means you will need to go to court, pay legal fees, and possibly face jail time. Road rage is simply not worth it. If you give in to road rage, the other driver could have a deadly weapon, putting you in serious danger. Getting home safely is more important than teaching someone a dangerous lesson.
TEXAS AUTO ENCOURAGES YOU TO DRIVE SAFELY.
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR USED CAR INVENTORY OR OUR SERVICE CENTER CONTACT US!
Awesome Christmas Gifts For Your Car
Christmas is just days a way! Don’t forget to buy a gift for the one thing that takes care of you all year long- your vehicle! Texas Auto recommends checking out these awesome Christmas gifts for your vehicle:
1. All-Season Floor Mats
With all-season floor mats, you can rest easy knowing that your carpet is safe and sound underneath. Having all-season rubber floor mats takes away the frustration of a stained carpet!
2. Splash Guards/Mud Flaps
Keep the slush and dirt off your vehicle this winter with splash guards/mud flaps. Splash guards/mud flaps will help keep the dirt and grime in the wheel wells where it belongs.
4. Fog Lights
Some mornings you cannot see two feet in front of you ,fog lights become not so much an accessory as a safety measure. Just be sure to tell your kids not to stare at them.
5. Bluetooth Phone System
Continuing with the trend of safety features, while fog lights may help your driving in bad conditions, it won’t help with pesky phone calls! Having a bluetooth phone system handy in your vehicle helps remove one less distraction from your hectic ride.
6. DVD entertainment system
For long holiday drives, a DVD entertainment system is a godsend. They will keep your kids happy and calm, and potentially reduce time spent pulling over for bathroom breaks
One thing that can be said about Christmas shopping: very rarely do you run OUT of ideas for gifts. Just don’t forget to get something nice for your vehicle.
Is your car ready for the winter months? Make an appointment with Texas Auto and let us take care of your auto repair and maintenance needs!
SERVICE HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-6PM / SATURDAY 9AM-3PM
CONTACT TEXAS AUTO SERVICE (281) 938-2059
Holiday Driving Hazards
December just might be one of the most dangerous months on the road. Whether your rushing to the next holiday party, making a “Happy Holidays” phone call behind the wheel or indulging in some holiday cocktails prior to hitting the road, Texas Auto wants to remind you of the most dangerous behaviors drivers exhibit during the holiday season.
1. Fatigued Driving. Increased demands and activities during the winter holidays often mean significantly reduced sleep schedules.
2. Impaired Driving. Holiday and company parties and celebrations typically involve consumption of alcohol. An increase in the number of impaired drivers using the roadways during the holidays has been well-established by law enforcement.
3. Pressured Driving. The holidays typically bring with them increased pressures, financial stress and the stress created by trying to do too much in a short time span. People will often drive too fast or aggressive and generally disregard the needs and safety of others using the road.
4. Distracted Driving. Drivers will be using their cell phone for both talking and texting. It also includes driving while using a smartphone to surf the web.
It is not uncommon for a single driver to manifest all four dangerous driving behaviors at the same time, especially in the final ten days of the year.
Texas Auto reminds you to take plenty of breaks and do not push yourself to meet an unrealistic schedule. Stay fresh and alert when driving. Driving requires your full attention, pull off the road if you have to use your cellphone. If there will be drinking at your holiday party, make sure to have a designated driver for your group. This holiday season stay safe out there!
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