What Makes up Your FICO Score?
Did you know FICO scores are utilized in over 90% of lending decisions?
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the credit bureau determines the FICO score:
35% – Payment History:
This is the biggest factor that affects your FICO credit score. Being a few days late on a couple payments won’t be damaging, but it does affect your current status rating. Credit agencies generally use a rating scale of 1-9 to rate your status – 1 being “Pays as Agreed”. This means you’ve been paying the agreed amount by the agreed date with you and your lender. One to thirty days late on a payment brings your status rating down to a 2.
If you’re looking to build your credit, the best place to start would be to obtain a free credit report. It can tell you many things about your credit, and it is very easy to see what areas need improvement. You can usually get one free one a year, pay for a monthly service, or a one time fee. Speck Buick GMC pulls from Equifax, Transunion, and Experian, these scores can differ from each other so it’s important to see all of these – especially when buying a car.
Beginning the car-buying process? Fill out our credit application online to get started!
30% – Amounts Owed:
The amounts of debts you have left to pay are what the credit bureau looks at to determine whether you may have too much on your plate. When looking at your credit report, keep in mind that the report generally reflects the payment balance from your last statement. Typically it defines what the lender has reported to the credit bureau. The bureau will look at how many different accounts with a debt balance you carry, credit usage percentage on your credit cards, as well as how much of any installment loans (such as car loans) you’ve paid so far. To help your score, make sure you work towards getting your debts paid off and on time before you decide on another large purchase.
15% – Length of Credit History:
Credit age is not everything that determines your FICO score, but sometimes it can be the difference whether you receive that loan or not. Lenders want to see credentials of payment with a history of credit.
No credit history? It can be surprisingly easy with patience and commitment to payment. Apply for a basic credit card with your bank. It’s a good idea to ask what kind of credit card is best for someone just beginning a line of credit, and usually it also comes with a small starting limit, usually around $500. Only use your credit card for smaller items or services – or just choose one thing you can pay for monthly such as a streaming service like Netflix or Hulu. Regardless of what you decide, make sure it is something that you can easily pay back. As soon as you get your first statement, transfer that full owed amount right to your credit account by the date on the statement. If you’re a first-time car buyer with no credit history, doing this 6-8 months before you decide to buy is a great way to get a head start on the car-buying process.
Finally paid off that card? Consider keeping the account, especially if it’s your oldest account, as it may be an important part of keeping your credit history a positive influence on your credit history.
10% – New Credit:
Like mentioned previously, patience is a key factor to building credit. It’s very important to take it one credit line at a time, and don’t open up too many credit accounts in a short period. This can negatively influence your FICO score as it also affects your history.
Inquiries from the last 12 months, such as hard pulls, are considered in your FICO score. Auto and mortgage usually pull multiple inquiries, but it is a myth that this heavily affects your credit score. It may drop a bit, but many times these are treated as single inquiries.
10% – Credit Mix:
Auto installment loans, mortgages, retail accounts, credit cards, and more – how many different types of credit accounts do you manage? The credit bureau will consider your experience with various credit accounts. It’s important to know having too many accounts open can present a negative outlook on your FICO scores. Compared to those with a history of successfully managing a credit card, people who don’t have a credit line can be viewed as “higher risk”. Make sure all different accounts are managed responsibly in order to keep your credit in check.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
HOW MUCH DOES THE NEW 2021 BUICK ENCLAVE COST?
The all-new, luxurious 2021 Buick Enclave brings a great 3-row option to the Buick SUV lineup. Powered by a 3.6L V6 engine that gets up to 310 HP, high-tech Buick infotainment system, and can even haul up to 5,000lbs when properly equipped. It is available as the Buick Enclave Preferred, Buick Enclave Essence, Buick Enclave Premium and Buick Enclave Avenir.
The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Preferred FWD is $40,000*.
The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Essence FWD is $42,000*. The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Essence AWD is $44,000*.
The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Premium FWD is $48,400*. The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Premium AWD is $50,600*.
The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Avenir FWD is $53,800*. The starting MSRP of the 2021 Buick Enclave Avenir AWD is $56,000*.
Ready to shop a new Buick SUV? Click here to view our new Buick SUVs online at Speck Buick GMC of Tri-Cities, WA!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
Tips for First-Time Car Buyers
Test drive and ask questions:
Before, during and after your test drive, ask any questions you may have about the vehicle. Common things people ask about include the amount of previous owners, service history, engine capabilities, tow capacity and much more. You have questions? We have answers.
Build your credit:
If you want to take the financing route to purchasing a vehicle, ensuring your credit is good is very beneficial. Having good credit can help you avoid high interest rates. It can also keep you from having to try and find a qualifying cosigner or coming up with a very large down payment.
Make sure you pay off anything you might have in collections, and make your bill payments on time!
Applying for pre-approval is great for checking and understanding your buying power. Fill out our credit pre-approval application here.
Have the paperwork you need:
To make the process easier at the dealership, have all the paperwork you may need ready!
Paperwork to have for buying a car includes:
- Title and registration for any trade-in
- Driver’s license
- Proof of residency
- Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs)
- Proof of insurance
We welcome first-time buyers here at Speck Buick GMC, and we can help you find the right vehicle for the right budget. View our inventory here!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
Test Driving a Used Vehicle
At Speck Buick GMC, we always want to make sure you are satisfied with your purchase, and know its vital to take a test drive in a prospect vehicle in order to make the best decision before you put a down payment.
Does it have everything you need?
When you’re searching for your next daily driver, be sure to get something that is practical for your lifestyle. If you have a big family, a 3-row SUV would be a great option. Do you need a commuter car? We have plenty of fuel-saving sedans. It’s crucial to make sure it fits you and how you drive!
Before you get into the car, check to see if it will be able to fit anything you will need bring, such as a car seat or kennel.
Does everything work? And how does it drive?
All of our vehicles in our Speck inventory receive a multi-point inspection and needed maintenance before they hit the lot, but it’s always important to listen and feel everything before making your decision. Anything you may find during your drive, our service team is always happy to review with you.
Once you’re in the car, adjust your seats and mirrors. Test all the systems and buttons including the entertainment system, heating/air conditioning, steering wheel buttons, lights and more. Plug in your phone, if applicable, to see if you can connect to your vehicle. Look around to see if it has the features you want and need. If you would like to see how the vehicle does on hills, speed bumps, highway speeds and more our team can help to adjust your route so you can drive the vehicle in these situations.
Looking for a great used vehicle? Check out our used inventory here at Speck Buick GMC of Tri-Cities.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
HOW MUCH DOES THE 2021 GMC ACADIA TOW?
The 2021 GMC Acadia is a great choice for a family adventure vehicle. The Acadia SUV makes it possible to bring even more fun to your journey with tow capabilities provided by an available hitch installed on the Acadia.
The 2021 GMC Acadia comes equipped with one of the three engines:
- 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engine
- 2.5L I-4 engine
- 3.6L V-6 engine
The 2021 GMC Acadia equipped with a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engine gets a maximum conventional trailer weight rating of 1,500lbs. The 2021 GMC Acadia equipped with a 2.5L I-4 engine gets a maximum conventional trailer weight rating of 1,000lbs. The 2021 GMC Acadia equipped with a 3.6L V-6 engine gets a maximum conventional trailer weight rating of 1,000lbs.
When the 2021 GMC Acadia is equipped with the Max. Trailer Package, the maximum conventional trailer weight rating becomes 4,000lbs. Each GMC Acadia has a max GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 6,001lbs.
*”Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.”
Look for the all new GMC Acadia here at Speck Buick GMC of Tri-Cities!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
GMC’S MULTI-PRO TAILGATE
GMC designed a multi-functional tailgate proven to accommodate your life. It has a primary and secondary gate, first of which folds like an ordinary tailgate, and the second folds again to create a multitude of options. These options include wide 48″ entry steps, bed extender, and more!
1. The Tailgate We Know and Love:
The new Sierra comes equipped with high tech capabilities, including those that control the tailgate! Open the Multi-Pro by pressing a simple button on the tailgate itself, on your key fob, or from the inside of your truck with a button found on the instrument panel. This will open the tailgate smoothly and quickly into the traditional back-end style we are all familiar with.
2. Bringin’ Out the Paddleboards
Open up the tailgate, you’ll notice a foldable panel on the inside. Lift it up, and you have a bed extender! Make the most out of your haul with this feature!
3. Cut Out the Middle Man
Need to reach your cargo but your tailgate’s in the way? Get closer by releasing the secondary tailgate. Pressing the extra button will drop the second part of your gate, which gives you about 7-9 inches of extra reaching space.
4. Step Up Your Tailgate Game
Press both buttons on the tailgate simultaneously to drop both parts of the door. Fold down the extra panel (same one that is folded for a bed extender), and you have easy access steps that can hold up to almost 375 pounds. Perfect for a big move or large haul.
5. Make Everywhere Your Workspace
Just fold down the secondary gate! By just pressing the secondary button, there is a workspace ready for your projects. There is also an available 120-volt electrical in-bed outlet that can make it easier to get the job done. We definitely recommend a camping cook spot!
See this tailgate for yourself and shop our new GMC trucks online here.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
What Should I Do if My Car Overheats?
Your car overheating can mean a few different things, but oftentimes it can be a leak or blockage in your engine’s cooling system that is preventing heat from properly escaping.
Make sure you have a few things in your car ready just in case; coolant (50/50 antifreeze & water), oil, extra water, heavy duty gloves and tools.
A few signs to tell if your car is overheating includes the temperature gauge getting abnormally close to or in the red, burning or strange smell coming from the front of your vehicle, or even steam (can look similar to smoke) coming from your boiling coolant.
The best thing to do when you notice your car overheating on the road is to pull over and turn off your engine to avoid engine damage and wait for your engine to cool down (at least 15 minutes) before you approach it. When checking under the hood pay attention to the coolant and oil levels, as well as any visible disconnection, cracks or leaks within the system. Top off your coolant and oil, and use distilled water as a temporary, emergency replacement for the coolant. If you believe you cannot drive it safely any longer, call your tow service.
If you’re on the road and notice your temperature gauge begins to go up abnormally, turn on the heater at full blast. Even if it’s a hot day, this can direct the heat away from your engine. Even if this does work, you should only drive a small distance. This can only be a band-aid for your vehicle overheating and it should be taken to a mechanic as soon as possible.
If you experience your car overheating, please give us a call here at Speck Buick GMC so we can get your vehicle back on the road safely!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
Who Is Eligible for the GM Military Discount?
GM wants to say thank you to those who are serving and those who have served in our United States Military with a discount on our great new GM inventory. This discount provides a special cost below MSRP. Most new 2020-2021 GM vehicles cars, SUVS, trucks and cargo vans are available for the discount – talk to Speck Buick GMC to learn more about eligible new vehicles.
To qualify for the GM Military Discount, you must be an Active Duty member, Reservist, National Guard member, Veteran within three years of discharge date or Retiree of these U.S. military branches:
- Army
- Navy
- Air Force
- Marines
- Coast Guard
For eligibility verification and access to the discount, you must create a profile on ID.me.
GM says:
“ID.me is one of four companies selected by the federal government to provide a Single Sign On for American citizens that will be accepted across all government websites over the next two years. By confirming your documentation through ID.me, your identity will be verified, making you eligible for the GM Military Discount.”
After signing up on ID.me, you will receive an authorization number that you can bring to our dealer so we can utilize your GM Military Discount.
For military veterans within 3 years of discharge and retirees, there are documents that are accepted for proof of eligibility:
Veteran Verification:
DD214 within 3 years active discharge
Retiree Verification:
Retiree Account Statement (eRAS)
Retiree Verification of Pay Letter
Retiree Separation Orders (Reserve or National Guard)
Retiree Uniformed Services ID Card
DAVPRM Uniformed Services ID Card
Letter from VA showing service-connected evaluation is 100%
This discount can be shared with spouses or other household members, and can be combined with existing lease offers to save you extra money on your new purchase. The Military Discount can be used to purchase up to 2 GM vehicles per calendar year.
Shop new Chevrolet and Buick vehicles here with Speck Buick GMC! For more information on our Military Discount program, give us a call or stop in and we’re happy to answer any questions.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
Meet the New GMC Hummer EV
The 2022 GMC Hummer EV will take every drive to the next level with up to a whopping 1,000 horsepower on the new Hummer Supertruck (830 HP on the upcoming Hummer EV SUV), all while producing zero emissions. The redesigned Hummer runs on an Ultium battery platform and gets over a 350-miles range on full charge. The
2022 Hummer EV will be available as a supertruck, and the Hummer EV as an SUV model will begin production in 2023.
2022 Hummer EV available performance features:
Crabwalk: Crabwalk drive mode allows the Hummer to drive diagonally at low speeds to fit around tight spaces both in the city and off the road.
4-Wheel Steer: The new Hummer EV’s available 4-Wheel Steer gives the options to have all four wheels steer in order to conquer tight turns and corners.
Watts to Freedom: The Watts to Freedom feature is a launch control for the Hummer EV, utilizing the full power of the acceleration, adding the 11,500lbs of available torque. The Supertruck model has been tested at 0-60mph in 3.0 seconds, and the future SUV model has tested at 0-60mph 3.5 seconds.
Super Cruise: This features allows for hands-free driving with automatic lane changing. Capable of performing on 200,000 miles of road and with more miles ahead.
2022 Hummer EV available design features:
The new 2022 Hummer EV Supertruck will have a center-positioned 13.4” touchscreen for connectivity, entertainment and convenience. The Driver Information Center display will be a high-definition and easy-to-read 12.3” screen.
The interior seating will have available two-tone seating: a Jet Black/ Taupe combination called “Lunar Shadow”, and a Jet Black/Light Grey scheme by the name of “Lunar Horizon”. These colors are complemented by bronze accents throughout the cabin.
The new GMC Hummer EV will have the capability to remove roof panels to create different customizations. These roof panels are also available as Transparent Sky Panels, giving the passengers a great view and immersive drive whilst deflecting the sun.
It will also come equipped with GMC’s versatile Multi-Pro tailgate, configuring into a sturdy traditional tailgate, to a durable step, a versatile workbench and more.
There are many performance and design features we are looking forward to as we step into the future with the all-electric, zero emission and greatly powerful 2022 GMC Hummer EV.
Are you looking to reserve yours? Click here to reserve your 2022 GMC Hummer EV here with Speck Buick GMC of Tri-Cities, WA.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
The Basics of Towing
Keep These Pointers in Tow:
Know your weight limits and read your trailering guide!
It’s important to understand the weight capacity of your vehicle’s towing capability. A lot of factors can determine the trailering limit of a vehicle from the engine, cab, drivetrain, type of hitch setup and more.
Here are a few terms to learn and remember when looking at your vehicle’s trailering guide:
Base Curb Weight: This is the weight of your vehicle including all of the necessary liquids such as brake, power steering, transmission fluid and anything else the vehicle needs in order to run properly. This weight does not include any passengers or cargo.
GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight): The Gross Vehicle Weight is the current weight of the vehicle. This is an ever-changing number, due to the fact that life happens! Constant packing, unpacking, extra passengers and more always change the GVW. If you’ve driven down the highway and noticed a weigh station for large trucks and semis, this is the number they’re weighing for.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is given by the manufacturer of the vehicle, and will never change. It is the maximum amount of weight you can carry in your vehicle. It is extremely important to know this number. If the Gross Vehicle Weight exceeds the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, it is possible to run into many issues that can include an engine overload or other mechanical issues.
GCWR: (Gross Combination Weight Rating): The Gross Combination Weight Rating is a combination weight of both the GVW with passengers and cargo, plus the weight of the loaded trailer.
Tongue Weight: The Tongue Weight (also known as the Vertical Tow Rate) is the amount of weight the trailer is putting on the tow hitch. Depending on your hitch, this weight can be spread in order to ensure that there is not too much weight being put on the hitch. Hitches have different classes depending on the weight you’re looking to tow.
Choose the right equipment!
Having the right equipment when you are towing is crucial to safely getting the job done. Ensure your vehicle is correctly equipped to tow, with receiver hitch attached to the tow vehicle. When attaching the hitch to the trailer, you’ll need a trailer ball. These can either come already attached to the ball mount or hitch tongue, or are a separate piece. A trailer ball makes it easy to maneuver around and ensure the trailer is level. Of course, make sure the ball mount is compatible with the trailer, hitch, and the weight being placed on it.
Our Parts Specialists here at Speck Buick GMC know what you need. We are more than happy to figure out what size and class of hitch and mount you’ll need in order to get the job done.
Get connected!
In order to prevent any accidents, making sure your trailer brake and lights are connected to your vehicle are important. If you brake suddenly and the person behind you can’t tell, that could cause an avoidable collision. Learn where your connections are, and where they hook up at. You can find a lot of this information in the owner’s manuals of your vehicle and trailer.
Drive slow!
It’s important to understand that your vehicle is carrying extra weight, and not only can it strain the engine, but the connection from trailer to vehicle. While towing, ensure you take corners carefully, and don’t go any faster than necessary. Ensure that you are creeping to a stop, and avoid any sudden braking. Extra caution should be practiced on hills, as these are tricky when towing. Like mentioned, drive slow – and don’t be afraid to use your hazards to let other driver’s know that you’re going to be going at a slower speed. When descending, shifting down can make it easier on your engine.
If you’d like to learn more about towing with your GMC, our service experts are more than happy to help — schedule today!
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
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