We’ll Buy Your Car
If we’re being honest, and we always are, we know at some point you’ve probably been told not to sell your car to a dealership. We also are well aware of the reputation our industry has earned, which is why we’ve worked so hard since ‘93 to be a welcome contrast to our competition. If you’re looking for a place that doesn’t disclose the fine print, lowballs your trade, or has you paying more for your lease, that’s none of our business. But if you’re looking for a place with no hidden agendas, no negotiation, and total transparency, that is our business.
Now, whether you’re planning to buy a new car or just get rid of your current one, selling your car to Apple Autos pays off both in the long and short.
What to Expect
Simplicity in its finest form. We’ve made the selling process as easy as 1-2-3. And the best part, is you get to decide exactly how it goes. Whether you want to do it all from your couch or want the personal touch of an expert in store, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: You get an offer – Just tell us a little about ole reliable (online or in-store)
Step 2: We pick up your vehicle (or you can drop it off)
Step 3: You get Paid – After a quick, on-site review, we’ll either cut the check or hand you keys to your new whip
Tips for selling your car to a dealer
As easy as it already is, there are some things to note on your end that will make the process even better!
What to bring
- Title or payoff info on your vehicle
- State issued photo ID
- All keys, remotes and owner’s manuals (failure to provide these may result in an adjusted final offer)
What’s the deal with used car value calculators?
Now, we know that you know there are a number of sites with used car valuation tools, such as Kelley Blue Book, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), and Consumer Reports. While these quick-fix calculators are useful and make you feel as though you’re a professional car appraiser, they are meant to be used merely for general guidance.
Additionally, the importance of honesty can’t be overstated. Your faded leather seats and squeaky breaks might feel nostalgic to you, but odds are not anyone else. So be real with your car. Don’t stamp a “Good” value on a “Generous Fair” beater.
What Makes Apple Autos Different
At Apple Autos, we believe the value of the car you trade in is based on the current market value, not the vehicle you want to buy. That’s why we have an interactive trade evaluation process designed to ensure you get every penny you deserve on a trade-in vehicle. No unfair negotiation, just truthful documentation. We sell a lot of used vehicles, and we’ll purchase yours even if you don’t purchase ours.
We know you’re smart. So, giving you what your trade-in is actually worth—is worth it to us. Treating you with clarity and honesty when servicing your vehicle is the right thing to do. After all, the value of your trust is worth more to us in the long run.
The bottom line is, selling your car to Apple Autos not only means getting top, honest dollar, but also the path of least resistance.
A Day in the Life of an Auto Technnician
What do automotive mechanics really do?
We’re not going to lie to you, our techs are the coolest people in our building, but don’t tell the sales staff. Tech-nically speaking, their job description completely depends on their level of certification. But to sum it up, an automotive service tech or mechanic is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing cars and light trucks to their highest level of safety. They are professional problem solvers!
Specific responsibilities include:
- Identify problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment
- Plan work procedures, using charts, technical manuals, and experience
- Test parts and systems to ensure that they work properly
- Follow checklists to ensure that all critical parts are examined
- Perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires
- Repair or replace worn parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, and sensors
- Perform repairs to manufacturer and customer specifications
- Explain automotive problems and repairs to clients
Although service technicians work on traditional mechanical systems, such as engines, transmissions, and drivebelts, they must also be familiar with a growing number of electronic systems. Braking, transmission, and steering systems, for example, are controlled primarily by computers and electronic components.
In addition, technicians are responsible for knowing every vehicles integrated electronic systems, such as accident-avoidance sensors, or lane-keeping assist. As we know, technology seems to be advancing at the speed of light and automotive techs are responsible for keeping up!
What tools do they use?
You mean besides themselves? Just kidding. Service technicians use many common hand tools, such as wrenches, pliers, sockets and ratchets. Generally, techs own their own tools, some have thousands of dollars worth!
What types of service technicians are there?
We’re going to assume you don’t want to read a 20-page article, so we’ll just list a few.
Drivability technicians, also known as diagnostic technicians, use their extensive knowledge of engine management and fuel, electrical, ignition, and emissions systems to diagnose issues that prevent engines from performing efficiently. They often use the onboard diagnostic system of a car and electronic testing equipment such as scan tools and multimeters to find the malfunction.
Brake technicians diagnose brake system problems, adjust brakes, replace brake rotors and pads, and make other repairs on brake systems. Some technicians specialize in both brake and front-end work.
Front-end technicians diagnose ride, handling, and tire wear problems. To correct these problems, they frequently use special alignment equipment and wheel-balancing machines.
Transmission technicians and rebuilders work on gear trains, couplings, hydraulic pumps, and other parts of transmissions. An extensive knowledge of computer controls and the ability to diagnose electrical and hydraulic problems are needed to work on these complex components.
Wait, I wanna read a 20-page article! Be our guest.
That sounds awesome, how do I become an automotive service tech or mechanic?
Most employers require, or strongly prefer that their techs complete a program at a post-secondary institution. From there, industry certification is required once the person is employed.
Education
High school courses in automotive repair, electronics, computers, and mathematics provide a good background for prospective service technicians. However, high school graduates need further training to become fully qualified.
Completing a vocational or other post-secondary education program in automotive service technology is considered the best preparation for entry-level positions. Programs usually last 6 months to a year and provide intensive career preparation through classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Short-term certificate programs in a particular subject, such as brake maintenance or engine performance, are also available.
Some service technicians get an associate’s degree. Courses usually include mathematics, electronics, and automotive repair. Some programs add classes in customer service and other necessary skills.
Various automobile manufacturers and dealers sponsor associate’s degree programs. Students in these programs typically spend alternating periods attending classes full time and working full time in service shops under the guidance of an experienced technician.
Training
Service technicians who have graduated from postsecondary programs in automotive service technology generally require little on-the-job training.
Those who have not completed postsecondary education, however, generally start as trainee technicians, technicians’ helpers, or lubrication workers. They gradually acquire more knowledge and experience by working with experienced mechanics and technicians.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all technicians who buy or work with refrigerants to be certified in proper refrigerant handling. No formal test preparation is required, but many trade schools, unions, and employer associations offer training programs designed for the EPA exam.
Certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the standard credential for service technicians. Certification demonstrates competence and usually brings higher pay. Many employers require their service technicians to become certified.
ASE certification is available in nine different automobile specialty areas: automatic transmission/transaxle, brakes, light vehicle diesel engines, electrical/electronic systems, engine performance, engine repair, heating and air-conditioning, manual drive train and axles, and suspension and steering.
To become certified, technicians must have at least 2 years of experience (or relevant schooling and 1 year of experience) and pass an exam. Technicians who achieve certification in all of the foregoing areas (light vehicle diesel engine certification is not required) may earn ASE Master Technician status.
Important Qualities
Physical strength. Being a service technician can be fairly strenuous on the body. It’s manual labor all day that often deals with heavy items.
Detail oriented. Service technicians must be aware of small details when inspecting or repairing vehicle systems, because mechanical and electronic malfunctions are often due to misalignments or other easy-to-miss causes.
Dexterity. Service technicians perform many tasks that require steady hands and good hand–eye coordination, such as assembling or attaching components and subassemblies.
Mechanical skills. Service technicians must be familiar with engine components and systems and know how they interact with each other. They often must take apart major parts for repairs and be able to put them back together properly.
Organizational skills. Service technicians must keep workspaces clean and organized in order to maintain safety and ensure accountability of parts.
Troubleshooting skills. Service technicians use diagnostic equipment on engine systems and components in order to identify and fix problems in increasingly complicated mechanical and electronic systems. They must be familiar with electronic control systems and the appropriate tools needed to fix and maintain them.
So what do you think? Do you have what it takes to be the baddest in the business? We hope so! Check out our service job postings here!
11 Car Care Tips before going off to College
Q: How often do I need to change my oil?
There is no downside to frequent oil changes. In fact, frequent oil changes protect and aid gas mileage. However, there are many variables that determine how often an oil change is needed. Climate conditions, mileage driven, and highway versus city driving all affect your vehicle’s need for fresh oil. We recommend you refer to the manufacturers specifications in the scheduled maintenance section of the owners’ manual. Most vehicles have a recommended interval of 5 months or 5000 miles or 7 months or 7500 miles.
Q: Should I consider using synthetic motor oil in my vehicle?
Synthetic motor oil is recommended for vehicles that operate in extremely hot or cold climates, vehicles that are used for towing and high output, turbocharged or supercharged engines. Although more expensive than mineral-based oils, synthetic motor oils can improve fuel economy and provide longer intervals between oil changes.
Q: How often should I rotate my tires?
Your tires should be rotated with every oil change, or every 5000 miles. Neglecting to rotate tires causes premature wear. You should also have your alignment checked every 12 months or 12000 miles. This will help you get the most mileage out of your tires.
Q: Is it really necessary to replace my timing belt at the recommended interval?
Yes. The failure of a timing belt in many cars can result in major engine damage. The cost to repair an engine with a broken timing belt is much greater than the cost of a timing belt replacement.
Q: I have a belt making a loud squeal sound. Should I have it replaced?
It is important to inspect and replace belts regularly. The belt system in your car helps your alternator and air conditioning compressor to operate correctly, among other things. When a belt breaks, it can cause costly damage. To avoid this, inspect belts regularly for wear. If they show signs of wear, it is recommended that you replace them.
Q: What does it mean if my Check Engine light or Service Engine Soon light comes on?
There are many sensors and computerized components that manage your vehicles engine performance and emissions. When one of these fails, the Check Engine light is illuminated. Although your car may seem to be running fine, it is important to have the issue addressed to prevent any long term problems.
Q: What should I do if my car starts to overheat?
Overheating is a very serious problem. If your car overheats for too long, it can damage your engine. As soon as possible, find a safe place to pull off the road and shut the engine off. Do not attempt to check the fluid level in the radiator; the hot fluid can cause severe burns. The best thing to do is have your car towed to your local dealership for service.
Q: Why is my engine oil milky brown?
Milky brown engine oil is an indication that coolant has gotten into the oil. This can be caused by a blown head gasket or other gasket, a failed transmission cooler or cracked casings. This condition is very serious and needs to be checked by a professional technician immediately.
Q: How do I make sure my car battery has a good electrical connection?
Battery cables and terminals should be cleaned and inspected periodically to make sure they provide a good electrical connection.
Q: When should I replace my car’s fuel filter?
To help ensure dependable performance, replace your car’s fuel filter approximately every 30,000 miles, or as recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. This ensures that your fuel pump is not overworked and helps keep your fuel injectors clean.
Q: When should I change my spark plugs?
For maximum fuel economy and peak engine performance, your spark plugs should be replaced every 60,000 miles. Driving style and the type of plugs can affect the mileage interval. Newer engines use a platinum plug that lasts longer than a conventional plug.
Buying A Car: What’s it gonna cost You?
Perhaps a more appropriate question is: How do you feel about Car maintenance? The length of most leases on new vehicles coincides with the length of most car warranty periods. In most cases, you won’t be on the hook for anything other than normal wear-and-tear during the duration of your lease. Once your 24- or 36-month period is up, you turn in your car. Any issues that may arise during the rest of the car’s lifetime are someone else’s problem. Read the rest of this entry »
Thunderstruck: Meet the All-Electric F-150
If there is one thing the brand new 2022 F-150 Lightning wants you to know, it’s this:
No, it does not get lonely at the top.
For 44 years, the legendary pick-up has held best-selling status with no indication to be bumped. While some might argue that its new electrified endeavor is a lateral move, the facts speak otherwise.
According to MotorTrend, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning full-size all-electric pickup is a “thunderbolt that strikes at the heart of an industry hurtling toward adoption of electric cars.” And we really couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
You may recognize the name, Lightning, as Ford had first used it on the 1992 on a performance F-150 that was the world’s fastest production truck at the time, but was which was discontinued in 2004. Ford brought back the Lightning name, first used in 1992 on a performance F-150 that was the world’s fastest production truck at the time.
Contrary to rumor, the Lightning will not replace the traditional F-150. Instead, it simply reveals a branch of the F-150 family tree we had yet to meet. We’re not talking long-lost cousin who ditched the country, moved to the big city and goes by a new name. But rather, the admirable go-getter who embraces new challenges but never forgot their roots. That’s the F-150 Lightning. What you see it what you get. And trust us, there’s a whole lot to see.
Why should a devoted pick-up buyer strongly consider the ’22 Lightning? The real question is: why shouldn’t they? Because it gives more for less.
No seriously, here are the specs:
- Four-door, five-passenger SuperCrew cab with a 5.5-foot bed.
- Maximum payload of 2,000 pounds, of which 400 pounds can go in the “frunk” (front-trunk) where the engine used to reside.
- It can tow up to 10,000 pounds.
- With extended battery: 563 horsepower, 775 lb-ft of torque, and a driving range of about 300 miles on a single charge.
- With standard battery: 426 hp, 775 lb-ft, and a range of about 230 miles.
- It retains the full-size spare tire in the back.
Living up to its name, the Lightning quickly struck its way to the top of the F-chain by becoming the quickest and most powerful F-150 we’ve seen yet. You’re looking at a beast that can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. It shaved nearly a whole second off the previous-generation off-road Raptor model, with a best time of 5.2 seconds. (Motortrend)
In making the Lightning, Ford didn’t shy away from addressing some of the most common complaints of truck-owners: gas-mileage, ride, and handling. In fact, the 2022 Ford Lightning is a pioneer for independent rear suspension.
Built for durability and smart as it is tough, the eco-friendly Lightning is also quite the extrovert. Claiming yet another title in the F-series lineup as the most connected truck. In addition to its 15.5-inch touch screen, the F-150 Lightning offers a new variety of features and apps.
Okay, okay I get it. But how deep do my pockets have to be?
Just when you thought Ford couldn’t possibly outdo themselves more than they have, they hit you with an MSRP at $41,669 that’s is available for both retail and fleet customers. It is one of four trims; the others are the popular XLT (which starts at $54,669), Lariat (starting price forthcoming), and Platinum (about $90,000).
Charging your Car for Dummies
All trucks come with a mobile charger that can either plug into a standard 240-volt outlet, which provides about 13 miles per charging hour at 32 amps, or into a regular 120-volt outlet to charge at 3 miles per hour. The new 80-amp home charger, Ford Charge Station Pro, is the better way to go, charging up 30 miles of range in an hour and getting the larger extended-range battery from 15 to 100 percent charge in about eight hours.
Junk in the Frunk (front trunk)
Ford’s Lightning boasts four drive modes: Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Tow/Haul. To aid the driver, cameras provide a 360-degree view. There are also box and accessory cameras, but not a camera underneath the truck to see the terrain below you when wheels are in the air as you’re off-roading.
Onboard Scales is another cool feature; it uses the truck’s sensors to estimate payload, letting you know when you hit the F-150 Lightning’s threshold. The input is fed to the trip planner, which adjusts your range accordingly—one more way to assuage range anxiety.
Pro Trailer Hitch Assist makes its debut on the Lightning; it controls steering, throttle, and brake inputs to align your ball hitch under your trailer coupler. You still have to hop out to attach the trailer yourself.
Needless to say, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning has left us Thunderstruck.
Auto Show is Back!
You don’t need to be a motor head to enjoy free parking and fair food.
We only missed a year, but it feels like it’s been much longer than that. The 48th Auto Show is back for 2021 and we feel confident in telling you to get your hopes up! Come May 15th – 23rd, the Minnesota State Fair Grounds will be saturated with sweet rides. Yes, nearly 30 times more space than previous years. It’s not radical to assume this will be the biggest and boldest Twin Cities Auto Show to date.
Not only will attendees enjoy fair food and free parking, but now Neighborhoods! With the re-location, the Auto Show is unveiling seven themes blocks on the fairgrounds that will showcase different motorized vehicles and activities. Neighborhood names include: Electric, Fun, Heavy Duty, Lifestyles, Military, Motorcycle, and Outdoor Adventure. It’s like Disneyland for motor heads. There is truly going to be something for everyone.
We’ll see you there.
5 Best Breakfast Places in Shakopee, MN
They don’t call it the most important meal of the day for nothing; getting a good breakfast in is a crucial part of your morning routine. Whether you just want a pastry to go with your morning cup of coffee, or you’re more in the mood for a hearty plate of eggs and bacon, we’ll help you find your ideal morning meal. Check out our list below for the best breakfast places to start our day right here in our hometown.
3 Fantastic Day Trips to Take From Shakopee, MN
Located just 25 miles away from downtown Minneapolis, the city of Shakopee sits on the south bank bend of the Minnesota River and is surrounded by many natural and urban destinations that are perfect for a trip with friends or family. If you have a day off and want to do something different away from the city center, these are some great day trips you can go on without having to drive too far. Read the rest of this entry »
If you are looking for a pickup truck that gets the job done, consider the Ford F-150. This strong pickup has been redesigned with new features to suit all your needs. Read the rest of this entry »
The 2021 F-150 vs the 2020
What was Ford’s intention for the 2021 model? A full redesign. Though you may not perceive it at first glance, it’s brand new from grille to tailgate. A PowerBoost Hybrid V-6, 10-speed automatic to replace the six-speed, three cab configurations (long and short bed lengths) are amidst some of its functional upgrades. Read the rest of this entry »
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