spring service appointment for used cars

Embrace The Sun

It’s true, spring has finally sprung and it is now time to remove the debris left by the snowy season. That means giving your current vehicle a much-needed refresh, which is why the service professionals at Portsmouth Used Car Center recommend you schedule a spring service appointment for your used car. Before you do that, you can kickstart the process right from your home by following several tips we have outlined below. Our technicians recognize you are raring to hit the open road, but it is vital your vehicle is in prime condition before traveling. Check out our convenient tips below and then contact our highly-skilled technicians to set up your spring service appointment for used cars today.

why buy Portsmouth UCC

DIY Advice

Our service department suggests starting by:

• Cleaning Your Vehicle. This is a solid place to start to get your automobile clutter-free because it applies to both your interior and exterior. Our technicians will ensure you receive a car wash when you set up your spring service appointment for your used car.*

• Checking Key Components. Remember to carefully look over parts of your vehicle that may have been the most impacted by winter. These include your tires, windshield wipers, and all over your exterior.

• Inspecting Your Fluids. A crucial spring cleaning tip for cars is to examine how much fluids, like windshield wiper fluid, are left in your vehicle. The Portsmouth Used Car Center service team will top you off while we perform maintenance on your car.

• Scheduling Service. We are standing by to conduct work on your vehicle, ensure everything is in working order, and even point out detailed service specials you can enjoy.

spring service appointment for used cars

Spring Cleaning Done Right

Here at Portsmouth Used Car Center, we hope you find these cleaning tips for your car useful. Reach out with any inquiries or to schedule your next spring service appointment for your used car today!

SCHEDULE SERVICE

*See dealer for complete details.

trading in your used car New Hampshire

Obtain The Most Value

Deciding to trade in your current car, truck, crossover, or SUV is an excellent move to earn more capital to put toward elevating the way you travel. But how can you be sure you will get the most value for your trade? The team at Portsmouth Used Car Center is ready to help you when you begin trading in your New Hampshire used car with several useful tips on how to spruce up your vehicle and guarantee that its inherent worth is visible for all to see. Doing this in advance will not only help further secure every cent you should receive from your trade, but it also makes switching over to one of our many gently-used models even more seamless. Read below and then contact us to begin experiencing fresh avenues of driving fun.

why buy Portsmouth UCC

Suggested Steps

Before trading in your used car in New Hampshire, consider the following:

• Conduct Research. We recommend looking into the current market value of your vehicle, so that you have an approximation of its overall worth as a reference. In fact, we have partnered with Kelley Blue Book® to provide our customers with an easy-to-use online Value Your Trade tool for this exact purpose.* Try using it now.

• Schedule Service. Mechanical health is a major factor when it comes to assessing the value of your current vehicle. Be sure to schedule an appointment with our highly skilled service department. Our technicians will make sure your vehicle runs smoothly and operates at maximum capacity, thus further enhancing its allure and value.

• Deep Clean. This goes hand-in-hand with providing your vehicle a tune-up. As you prepare for trading in your used New Hampshire car, make sure you clean both the interior and exterior to better showcase its condition and the care you’ve given it over the years.

trading in your used car New Hampshire

Trade In Today

We at Portsmouth Used Car Center think these tips will be helpful once you are ready to begin trading in your used car in New Hampshire. Start by finding the estimated value of your trade today!

VALUE YOUR TRADE

*See dealer for complete details.

driving in the snow tips New Hampshire

Worried About Nor’easters?

It is a valid concern because those intense winter storms are infamous in the Granite State. The experts at Portsmouth Used Car Center understand that all too well and we want to do our part in ensuring you remain totally safe while you travel during the snowy season. That is why we have gathered a list of helpful tips for driving in the New Hampshire snow. Be sure to read them over and try them out on your next trip.

Schedule Maintenance

Before trekking across any tundra, it is imperative you set up a maintenance appointment with our knowledgeable service department. We will inspect your cherished ride and guarantee that your tires, hoses, fluids, heating, battery, and windshield wipers are in full working order.

Have the Right Tires

A solid tip for driving in the snow in New Hampshire is to install snow tires. Doing so will provide you with more grip and traction on icy road surfaces.

why Portsmouth UCCdriving in the snow tips New Hampshire

Be Prepared for Emergencies 

There should always be an emergency kit of some kind within your vehicle. For winter, we recommend that you include warm clothes, extra food rations, necessary medication, chargers for electronic devices, water, ice scrapers, etc.

Take Your Time

One crucial tip for driving in the New Hampshire snow is to practice constant vigilance and use caution as you travel. Keep in mind to only use your brakes whenever necessary and make sure you come to a complete stop when you do. Always be mindful of other drivers, use your headlights at all times, and make sure you remain focused on the road ahead.

Stay Safe During Snowfall

Here at Portsmouth Used Car Center, we hope these tips for driving in the snow in New Hampshire will be invaluable to your journeys this winter. Our service technicians are standing by to examine your vehicle, so schedule your appointment today!

driving in the snow tips New Hampshire

how to winterize your vehicle in NH

Protect Your Car

While winter can be a beautiful season in New Hampshire, it can also bring its fair share of challenges. Heavy snowfalls, harsh winds, and sudden blizzards adversely affect the roads and even your vehicle. The service experts at Portsmouth Used Car Center want to help preserve its integrity, which is why we have gathered several tips on how to winterize your vehicle in NH. They range from bits of maintenance you can perform right at home to scheduling an appointment at our state-of-the-art service department. Browse our tips on how to winterize your vehicle in NH and contact our technicians for more information about protecting your vehicle from icy elements.

How To Winterize Your Vehicle in NH:

• Keep Your Car Covered. This is the simplest tip we can impart. You can store your vehicle in a garage or — if you do not have a garage — use a tarp or car cover to shield it from any precipitation. 

• Get Winter Tires. Changing from all-season tires to winter tires is key for handling cold weather, even when your vehicle is stored away for the season. The rubber in non-winter tires can harden during freezing temperatures, which decreases the overall grip your model has on the road. Our service technicians will gladly install the right set of winter tires for you.

why Portsmouth UCChow to winterize your vehicle in NH

• Have Plenty of Fluids. Snowstorms and other winter weather phenomena can easily drain your windshield wiper fluid reserves. It is crucial to keep the fluids in your vehicle at a relatively high level. 

• Fill Up Often. We recommend you always have at least a half tank of gas in your vehicle. Keeping your tank full reduces the chance of condensation and helps prevent your gas lines from freezing up.

Here at Portsmouth Used Car Center, we are standing by to further show you how to winterize your vehicle in NH. Schedule your next maintenance appointment with us today!

how to winterize your vehicle in NH

used car maintenance

Summer is here, and it is time to hit the road for another driving adventure. With all the fun that awaits ahead, you do not want to get detoured by a sudden breakdown of your vehicle. The best way to avoid this pain is to bring your model to your premier used car maintenance destination. Because heat is an enemy for vehicle components, summer maintenance is essential, and having service completed before the driving season can enhance reliability. The service advisors at Portsmouth Used Car Center have assembled some summer maintenance tips, so your model is prepared for the season. Read up on these used car maintenance tips, and schedule your next service with us.

used car maintenance

Get An Oil Change

One of the most beneficial tasks we perform is changing motor oil because it is the lifeblood of your engine. Fresh oil lubricates engine components, so they all run in harmony without that awful metal-on-metal grinding.

Inspect Cooling System

Overheating is a major cause for summer breakdowns, so let us completely flush your coolant system, and inspect drive belts, clamps, and hoses, so you do not get stuck on the side of the road.

Check Your Air Conditioning

It has been a long winter, so you may not have used your air conditioning for a while, so let our used car maintenance technicians see if any blockages have occurred or if you need a refill on your refrigerant.

Get A Tire Inspection

Having your tires properly inflated saves extra cash with better fuel efficiency, and prevents excessive wear. The money you save can be put toward more activities on your trips.

Change Windshield Wipers

Avoid driving blind with old windshield wipers during a downpour. Summer storms can obstruct your view, so it is best to have fresh wiper blades installed to give you a clear view ahead.

Schedule Service at Portsmouth Used Car Center Today!

Begin summer on the right foot by bringing your vehicle to our used car maintenance experts, and we can have your model running at its optimal level from coast to coast all season. Schedule your appointment by completing our online form or visit the service center at Portsmouth Used Car Center.

used car maintenance checklist

used cars Portsmouth NH

The hustle and bustle of the winter season is here, and many families are ready for a road trip. Whether you are visiting family, hitting the ski slopes, or just getting away for a winter break, Portsmouth Used Car Center has plenty of reliable SUV models. These used vehicles can handle Portsmouth’s icy conditions and give you the confidence to travel all winter long. 

The Ford Escape

The Ford Escape’s intelligent four-wheel drive system regularly monitors road conditions and vehicle traction, giving you a safe and solid ride in even the harshest winter conditions. If your vehicle starts to slip, the system transfers torque from the front wheels to the back to provide the best combination of traction and handling. In addition to the Escape’s superior road performance, it is equipped with the SYNC3 system and roadside assistance. You will be able to check weather conditions, get directions, and get support if you are stuck in bad weather conditions. You can find this reliable SUV in our used inventory, so stop by to test drive the winter-ready Ford Escape. 

Chevrolet Traverse Portsmouth NH

The Chevrolet Traverse

This mid-size SUV is ready for anything, including a long road trip to visit relatives. Pack up your family and get moving in the spacious and safe Chevy Traverse. The 3.6L V6 engine and the all-wheel drive will get you through snow and ice without a problem. With the remote keyless entry, it will be easy to start up the engine and get the cabin warm and cozy before piling your family inside. This is the perfect SUV for cold weather travel!

Be prepared for any road conditions this winter. Explore our inventory of used vehicles that can all of your holiday travels. Visit your destination for used cars in Portsmouth NH today!

used cars Portsmouth NH

Holidays in Portsmouth

If you are looking for an idyllic, magical holiday experience, Portsmouth is the place to be. With its cozy town center and vintage streets lined with twinkling lights, you will feel like you stepped right into a nostalgic holiday greeting card. Our team at Portsmouth Used Car Center is gearing up for the holidays, and we have some suggestions on the best local shopping and the holiday events that you can’t miss. 

Portsmouth is full of holiday magic and wintertime fun. You can’t miss the Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth, a month-long celebration with delicious food, exciting music, theater performances, and other family activities that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit. The celebration kicks off with the Annual Gingerbread House Contest Exhibition. This sweet, yearly tradition invites the entire community to get in on the fun. You can see the delectable creations in a dazzling display on the first floor of the Discover Portsmouth Center all month long. If you are looking to burn off some holiday calories, take the family ice skating at Puddle Duck Pond’s glittering outdoor skating rink, or stroll the wreath-lined streets to take in the vintage homes that are all dressed up for the holidays.

Holidays in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is proud to support the arts, and the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to catch a theater performance or listen to live music. Bring the whole family to a heart-warming performance of Annie at Music Hall, or discover the true meaning of the season with A Christmas Carol, presented by the Seacoast Repertory Theater. If you want to see as much of Portsmouth as you can, consider a ride on the free vintage Christmas trolley. Then stop by the Strawberry Banke Museum for a guided tour of the town. You will learn about the winter traditions and celebrations of the New England area from years past. 

Do you have hungry little ones hoping for a glimpse of Santa? The professionals at your local used car dealer in Portsmouth NH suggest that you head to the dazzling Wentworth Hotel for a festive Sunday brunch with the man in red, or visit the Stage Neck Inn for cookie decorating, singing, and a delicious Santa brunch. When bellies are full, browse the small, local shops all decked out for the season. Stores like G.Willikers and the Solari Salon and Spa are offering holiday discounts all month long. You are sure to find the perfect unique gift. 

Portsmouth is the perfect place to help you get into the holiday spirit. The sparkling lights, joyous celebrations, and vintage, nostalgic atmosphere will make you feel like a kid again. Before heading out on the town to support our local community, stop by Portsmouth Ford. We are ready for a joyful and giving holiday season!

Holidays in Portsmouth

used Ford Focus Portsmouth

Are you ready to get “In Focus” with a sporty, affordable Ford model that was engineered with the technologies that make driving more enjoyable? By “In Focus,” we mean the comfortable and innovative interior is just as inviting as the ravishing exterior. This efficient sedan is perfect for your cozy commute to work and is an excellent traveling companion with ample storage for all of your cargo. Climb on into any one of our Ford Focus sedans to see what we mean! Here at your home for used cars in Portsmouth NH, you can test drive a Ford Focus S, a Ford Focus SE, a Ford Focus SEL with athletic bucket seats, or a Ford Focus Titanium with Heated, Leather-Trimmed, Sport Front Bucket Seats, and see which interior suits you best. A used Ford Focus for sale in Portsmouth is awaiting your test drive, and once you do, we predict you will glow with confidence from the inside out. Is there a Ford Focus sedan in your future? There are only a few left ranging from 2015 to 2019, so don’t wait! This rare vehicle is efficient, agile, versatile, safe, and delivers a high level of performance; it’s like driving a sports car and a deluxe sedan all at once! 

You can fit up to five passengers with a plethora of cargo space for all of your belongings. If you are planning a peaceful fishing trip, the 60/40 folding bench will flatten so that you can easily transport your fishing rods and tackle gear to the Great East Lake. Your safety and convenience come first when you are “In Focus.” Look forward to power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry with an integrated key transmitter, cruise control with steering wheel controls, and automatic air filtration.

used Ford Focus Portsmouth

The Ford Focus Titanium interior has a few added amenities if that is what interests you, such as leather seats, leather door trims, a heated, leather steering wheel, and a valet function. Staying connected is not only an option in your Ford Focus, it’s a necessity. You can easily connect your Bluetooth devices, through voice recognition, and enjoy the journey as you listen to your favorite playlists, podcasts, and news channels, courteous of your SYNC infotainment. You have USB ports, auxiliary input jacks, 12V DC power outlets, 2 LCD Monitors, plus your 4.2-inch, multi-function display for ultimate connectivity. 

Many Ford fans love how the Ford Focus makes you feel like you are in a race car, but has the comfort of a modern sedan. The fade-to-off interior lighting and chrome interior accents create an unparalleled ambiance for those romantic evenings. Naturally, you’ll have peace of mind, thanks to your backup camera, rear parking sensors, automatic brakes, and traction control, along with many other top-notch safety features. You can track the outside temperature and utilize the compass the next time you navigate up to the mountains for an adventure. The friendly team at your Portsmouth used Ford destination looks forward to showing you these outstanding elements and more. Test drive your used Ford Focus in Portsmouth today and see what it means to be “In Focus” on the road.

affordable cars for back-to-school

used cars for back-to-school

It’s time to sharpen your pencils, pick up your last-minute classroom essentials, and organize your belongings. As the onset of autumn approaches, the crisp tang in the air feels like a fresh start to exercise your mind. Before the semester starts, finding a reliable, efficient, and affordable car ought to be a top priority. Here at your local used car center, we have mapped out some of the best used cars for back to school and invite you to browse our splendid inventory. Planning for the semester can be so exciting, whether you are university-bound and packing up your cargo in your new vehicle, or a new driver looking for the perfect car to start your high school senior year. The friendly team at Portsmouth Used Car Center is excited about your new journey,  and we want to show you the incredible savings that we offer for back-to-school students. For used cars in Portsmouth NH, choose from a variety of models from Ford, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Kia, Nissan, Honda and more. Find your freedom of expression behind the wheel and drive with confidence in the car that you have always wanted. Our team will hand you the keys to test drive whichever model piques your interest, explain the features and specifications that each model entails, and be there by your side throughout the buying process.

We recommend a few sought-after vehicles that we think will be a terrific fit for your academic ventures. All of the following models are equipped with intelligent safety features and the utmost technology to help you start the school year with comfort and peace of mind. The Ford Focus is spacious and innovative in a way that will enhance the way you feel behind the wheel. You can achieve all of your commuting needs, accompanied by your guitar and your dog, while staying connected to all of your smart devices via Bluetooth.

affordable cars for back-to-school

Bring the party with you in the sporty Ford Fiesta this fall, and enjoy the technologies and versatility. You can listen to all of your playlists, enjoy your favorite podcasts, and stay current with school happenings linked to your Ford SYNC® infotainment system. You can drive your Ford back to school with pizzazz and purpose.

Another great model that was built to last and jet you around in style is the Volkswagen Jetta. All of your friends will be enchanted by the alluring exterior that beautifully complements the comfy interior. Chances are you have quite the load to carry to your college campus, from bedding to cozy sweaters, electronics to your abundance of textbooks. This spacious sedan has your back, even when you take charge and carpool your team members to the homecoming game or perhaps to the nearby city to sightsee. We also think you will love the charming Hyundai Accent;  it has the same exciting possibilities as the Volkswagon Jetta. Hyundai fans are thrilled about how fun the Hyundai Elantra is to drive, even on the coldest days of winter. This athletic sedan, as well as many others, support your on-the-go lifestyle and will get you to your destination on time. Cure your back to school blues as you make the transition from the beach to the books, and make it a priority to find a used car. Our professional team is excited to walk you around our hip and affordable selection of back-to-school used cars.

affordable cars for back-to-school

 

The EasyCare® Select Plus program is an exclusive one-year protection coverage program that is included with the purchase of your vehicle at Portsmouth Used Car Center. This ultimate upgrade provides six premier coverage benefits as well as several additional benefits that will give you peace of mind, save you money, and keep your vehicle running at optimum performance. EasyCare® Select Plus, also known as Portsmouth Used Car Center’s Keepin’ It New program, offers features like Road Hazard Tire & Wheel coverage, Cosmetic Wheel Repair, Roadside Assistance, Windshield Repair, Paintless Dent repair, and Key Replacement. We are thrilled to be the only MOTOR TREND® Certified dealer in New England. As your number one used car center in Portsmouth NH, we offer a best value guarantee. If you find a lower advertised price of the same exact car in 5 days, we’ll refund 100% of the difference. 

A MOTOR TREND® Certified vehicle comes with a comprehensive warranty and is thoroughly inspected by our factory-trained service department to make sure it meets or exceeds national standards. With MOTOR TREND® Certified, you have a 72-hour exchange policy if you’ve traveled less than 300 miles. Also, as long as you service your used car, truck or SUV with our expert service team, we’ll guarantee at least a $500 trade-in value. We look forward to scheduling your maintenance plan, and your first oil change is on us! At Portsmouth Used Car Center, we value our customers’ protection and take pride in our inventory, which is why we are New England’s only MOTOR TREND® Certified car dealership in Portsmouth NH. The EasyCare® Select Plus program, exclusively at your local certified pre-owned dealership, will save your pockets from significant repair costs for the first year of ownership. Talk to our friendly team about how to test drive a MOTOR TREND® Certified vehicle today, and find out more about these amazing benefits.

used cars Portsmouth NH