Buying Smart While Staying Safe

When you’re shopping for a used car, safety is often the first thing on your mind and for good reason. That’s why so many buyers look to the 5-Star Safety Ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) when comparing vehicles.

Recently, NHTSA announced that its planned update to the 5-Star Safety Rating system originally scheduled for 2026 models will now be delayed until 2027. At first glance, this might sound like a complicated government decision. But for used car shoppers, it actually brings good news.

Current Ratings Still Count

Because the updated standards are postponed, all vehicles on the market today are still measured by the existing criteria. That means a 2019–2025 vehicle with a 5-star score remains just as trustworthy today as when it was tested. For anyone shopping used, this stability is reassuring: your car’s rating won’t suddenly feel “out of date” in the next year or two.

Many Used Cars Already Have “Future” Features

Even though the government won’t officially include them in ratings until 2027, many late-model used cars already come equipped with advanced safety technology. Depending on the year and trim level, you can find features such as:

• Blind-spot monitoring  helps spot vehicles you might not see in your mirrors.

• Lane-keeping assist gently corrects steering to help keep you centered.

• Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection  added peace of mind in city driving.

• Adaptive cruise control  maintains a safe distance automatically on the highway.

These are the very features regulators will highlight in a couple of years. Smart shoppers can enjoy them today often at thousands less than the cost of buying new. Browse our latest selection here: Shop Our Inventory.

Value That Lasts

Since the new safety criteria won’t apply until 2027, a used car you buy now won’t lose its credibility on resale. In fact, vehicles already equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems may hold their value even better as demand for those features grows. Thinking ahead about equity? See what your current vehicle is worth: Value Your Trade.

We Help You Shop Smart

Our team can also help you identify which models in our inventory already include features that align with the next generation of safety standards.

Prefer to get a head start from home? You can streamline your visit by starting a secure financing application in minutes: Apply for Financing.

The Bottom Line

The NHTSA’s delay in updating safety ratings may sound like a technical detail, but here’s what it really means: today’s used cars remain a safe, reliable, and value-packed choice. With many pre-owned vehicles already equipped with features regulators will soon highlight, there has never been a better time to consider buying used.

Next step: Explore our certified pre-owned options, schedule a test drive, and let our team help you find a vehicle that fits your budget and your peace of mind.

.

Q&A Blog: Car Buying Made Easy with 423 Auto

Q: How do I know if I’m getting a good deal on a used car?

A: Always compare the vehicle price with online listings within a 50–100 mile radius. At 423 Auto, we price our vehicles to move and include a free CARFAX report so you can see the history before you buy. Plus, our inventory is carefully checked and serviced, so you’re not just getting a low price—you’re getting value you can trust.

Q: What do I need to bring with me to buy a car?

A: Keep it simple! Just bring:

• A valid driver’s license

• Proof of income (like a recent pay stub)

• Proof of residence (utility bill or similar)

• Down payment (if financing)

At 423 Auto, we work with banks for financing, and we’ll walk you through the process step by step so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Q: What makes buying from a local dealer like 423 Auto different?

A: Buying local means:

• You’re supporting your community here in East Ridge/Chattanooga

• You get personalized service instead of being treated like a number at a big-box store

• If you need help after the sale, you know exactly where to find us — 423 Auto LLC, 3951 Ringgold Road

We take pride in being part of this community and giving our customers honest deals, dependable cars, and the kind of service that keeps people coming back.

?? Ready to shop? Check out our current inventory at ?? 423auto.com or call ?? 423-800-7781 today.

#423Auto #CarShoppingMadeEasy #UsedCarsChattanooga #EastRidgeTN

Q&A With 423 Auto: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask a Car Lot

At 423 Auto, we get a lot of questions from folks looking for their next car, truck, or SUV. Here’s a quick Q&A to help you shop smart, stress less, and maybe laugh a little along the way.

Q: Do you charge doc fees or lot fees?

A: Nope. Zero. Nada. Other dealers tack on extra fees at the end, but at 423 Auto you’ll never see doc fees or lot fees. What you see is what you pay.

Q: Do you really give out free CARFAX reports?

A: Absolutely. Every car, truck, and SUV on our lot comes with a FREE CARFAX Report. No guessing games, no surprises — just transparency.

Q: What about financing? My credit isn’t great.

A: We’ve got you covered. Good credit, bad credit — we don’t care! We work with banks to get almost anyone riding. Most down payments start at just $2K.

Q: How do I know your cars are solid?

A: Simple. We only put vehicles on the lot that we’d drive ourselves. Many of them are one-owner vehicles with strong service history. Plus, every one comes with that free CARFAX so you can check for yourself.

Q: What kinds of vehicles do you sell?

A: A little bit of everything:

• Trucks that can tow your boat or haul your tools

• SUVs with space for the kids (and all their snacks)

• Cars that sip gas and save you money

• Luxury rides that give you the leather, tech, and style without the luxury price

Q: Where are you located?

A: We’re at 3951 Ringgold Road, East Ridge, TN 37412 — just minutes from Chattanooga. Swing by, call us at 423-800-7781, or visit us online at 423auto.com.

Q: Why should I buy from you instead of a bigger dealer?

A: Because at 423 Auto, you’re not just another number. We’re local, we’re transparent, and we make car shopping easy. No games, no hidden fees, just good people and good cars.

Bottom Line

At 423 Auto, we believe in honest deals, clear pricing, and helping everyone get into a ride they love. Come check out our lot — we’ll answer all your questions, hand you the keys, and let you test drive your next car today.

1. Q: Is it better to buy new or used in Chattanooga?

A: Break down the pros and cons.

New Cars: Warranty, latest tech, but lose value fast.

Used Cars: Lower price, slower depreciation, still reliable if well-maintained (especially with free CARFAX from 423 Auto).
Wrap up with: “For most families, a well-maintained used car saves thousands while still offering years of reliability.”

2. Q: What do I need to get approved for financing at a local dealership?

A: Explain simply what’s needed:

Driver’s license

Proof of income

Proof of residence

Down payment
Mention how 423 Auto uses banks and works with all credit types (good credit, bad credit, no problem).
?? Wrap up with: “Even if you’ve been turned down before, we’ll help you find options that fit your budget.”

3. Q: What are the most reliable used vehicles to buy in 2025?

A: Highlight popular, long-lasting models people search for:

Toyota Camry & Corolla

Honda CR-V & Accord

Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra

Kia Sedona for families
Add a local twist: “These models are always in demand around Chattanooga and North Georgia, so when we get one on the lot, it doesn’t last long.”

Pro Tip: Each Q&A blog should end with a call-to-action like:
“Check out our latest inventory at 423auto.com or call 423-800-7781 to schedule a test drive today!”

Car Buying Q&A – 3 Questions Every Buyer Asks (and Honest Answers from 423 Auto)

Q1: How do I know if I’m getting a good deal?

A: Start by comparing prices for similar year, make, model, and mileage in your local area. At 423 Auto, we price our vehicles competitively and provide a free CARFAX so you can see the history before you buy.

Q2: Should I buy with cash or finance?

A: If you have the cash, you’ll avoid interest and own the car outright. Financing spreads out the cost and can help you build credit — plus, we work with banks to get you competitive rates, even if your credit isn’t perfect.

Q3: What’s the most important thing to check before buying?

A: Service history and current condition. A clean CARFAX and regular maintenance records mean the car’s been cared for. At 423 Auto, we inspect every vehicle before it hits the lot so you know it’s road-ready.

Smart Car Tips: How to Buy Smarter, Drive Longer, and Save More

Buying a car is exciting, but it can also be one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. At 423 Auto, we believe that being a smart car owner starts before you ever drive off the lot. Here are a few tips to help you get the most value out of your next ride.

1. Always Check the Vehicle History

A clean paint job doesn’t tell the whole story. Always look for a detailed history report to see past owners, service records, and any accident reports. At 423 Auto, we make this easy by offering free CARFAX reports on every vehicle we sell.

2. Buy Based on Needs, Not Just Wants

It’s tempting to fall for the sporty convertible or lifted truck, but think about how you’ll actually use the vehicle. If you have a long commute, fuel efficiency might matter more than horsepower. If you have a large family, seating capacity and storage space might be top priorities.

3. Consider Total Cost of Ownership

The purchase price is just the beginning. Factor in insurance, maintenance, fuel, and registration fees before you make a decision. Sometimes, spending a little more up front can save you thousands over the long run.

4. Keep Up With Regular Maintenance

Oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks may not be exciting, but they’re the secret to a car’s long and reliable life. Following the manufacturer’s service schedule will help prevent expensive repairs down the road.

5. Finance Wisely

Getting approved for a loan is one thing; finding a loan that fits your budget is another. Shop for competitive rates and understand the total cost of the loan, including interest. At 423 Auto, we work with banks to get you approved with fair and honest terms, no matter your credit situation.

6. Don’t Skip the Test Drive

Online listings and photos are great, but the real test is how the car feels on the road. Check the brakes, steering, acceleration, and comfort. A short drive can reveal a lot about a vehicle’s true condition.

7. Negotiate Confidently

Do your homework before you come in. Look at comparable vehicles, mileage, and condition so you know what a fair price is. At 423 Auto, we believe in pricing our vehicles competitively from the start, so you don’t have to fight for a good deal.

The Bottom Line:
Buying a car doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and the right dealership, you can drive away feeling confident in your purchase and proud of the deal you made.

If you’re ready to shop smart, stop by 423 Auto at 3951 Ringgold Road in East Ridge, TN or visit us online at 423auto.com.

The Truth About Buying a Car at 423 Auto

(Spoiler: It’s Way More Fun Than You Think)

So, you’re in the market for a car, huh? That means you’ve probably done one of three things:

Your old car gave up on life — and now it’s parked in your driveway looking like it’s auditioning for an episode of The Walking Dead.
You’re tired of riding with “that friend” who plays music so loud you can feel your kidneys vibrating.
You just want something newer and shinier, so your neighbors stop giving you that “bless your heart” look.

No matter the reason, 423 Auto is here for you — and we promise not to make buying a car feel like a trip to the DMV.

Why Buy from 423 Auto?

Free CARFAX on Every Car — Because guessing a car’s history is like dating someone without Facebook stalking them first.

Most Down Payments Just $2K — We don’t believe in breaking your wallet (or your spirit).

We Finance Everybody — Good credit, bad credit, rebuilding… heck, if your dog has good credit, we’ll consider that too.

Friendly Staff — No pushy salespeople here. We’re more like that fun cousin who talks you into good decisions.

Our Cars are Like a Box of Chocolates…

Except you actually know what you’re going to get — because we give you the CARFAX. Want a work truck? Got it. Need a family van? Done. Want a sports car that makes your ex jealous? Oh, we have that too.

A Day at 423 Auto

It’s simple: You show up, we hand you keys, you drive the car, you fall in love, and we make the paperwork so easy you’ll think you just ordered something off Amazon.

And when you leave in your new ride, you’ll feel like you just won The Price Is Right.

Bring your coffee, bring your sense of humor, and let’s get you riding!

#423Auto #FreeCARFAX #CarDealsTN #salesalesale #WeFinance #BuyLocal #UsedCars #CarShopping #ChattanoogaCars #EastRidgeTN #TNCars #CarDeals #AffordableCars #UsedTrucks #TrucksForSale #CarLife #FunnyCarLot #CarBuyingMadeFun

Why Wheel Alignments Are a Smart Financial Move

If you're trying to stretch your car budget further, one of the smartest moves you can make is investing in regular wheel alignments. While many drivers only think about alignment when their car starts pulling to one side, treating it as part of a long-term financial strategy can prevent costly repairs and protect your vehicle’s value.

Here’s how something as simple as a wheel alignment can pay off big in the long run:

1. Preserve Your Tire Investment

Tires aren’t cheap — replacing a full set can easily run hundreds of dollars. Misaligned wheels wear down your tires unevenly and prematurely, sometimes in just a few thousand miles. A small investment in an alignment helps ensure you get the full lifespan out of every tire.

Savings tip: Proper alignment could help you avoid buying tires every 20,000 miles instead of 50,000. That’s potentially hundreds saved per year.

2. Improve Fuel Efficiency and Cut Gas Costs

Did you know that misaligned wheels create extra drag? Your car ends up working harder to move forward, which means it’s burning more fuel than necessary. Over time, that extra gas usage adds up — especially if you have a long commute or drive frequently.

Financial impact: Even a 5% drop in fuel efficiency could mean $100–$200 more at the pump every year.

3. Avoid Expensive Suspension Repairs

When wheels are out of alignment, the suspension system absorbs the stress. Over time, this accelerates wear on shocks, struts, bushings, and more. These are expensive components to repair or replace.

Think long-term: Spending a little now on alignment can save you thousands in future suspension work.

4. Protect Your Vehicle’s Resale Value

When it comes time to sell or trade in your car, signs of uneven tire wear or handling issues can turn off buyers or reduce your offer. Regular maintenance — including alignments — shows that you’ve taken care of your car, which can mean more money in your pocket.

The Bottom Line

A wheel alignment might not seem glamorous, but it’s one of the most cost-effective maintenance steps you can take. For a relatively small upfront cost, you’re avoiding premature tire wear, saving fuel, extending the life of expensive parts, and protecting your car’s resale value.

Pro tip: Make it part of your routine service schedule — ideally once a year, or whenever you rotate your tires.

.

Summer’s Here! What’s the Perfect Ride for Summer Adventures?

At 423 Auto, we know summer is all about road trips, lake days, and spontaneous weekend getaways. The right vehicle can make all the difference between a good trip and a great one — so what’s the best ride for summer?

SUVs & Crossovers
Spacious, comfortable, and ready for adventure. SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, Honda CR-V, or Ford Explorer are great for family trips, hauling gear, or hitting a back road to the lake. Plus, plenty of room for coolers and friends.

Trucks
Whether you’re towing a boat, hauling a camper, or loading up for a day on the water, a solid pickup like a Chevy Silverado or Ram 1500 is your summer MVP. Durable, powerful, and versatile.

Convertibles & Sports Cars
For those who want the feel of summer every time they drive, nothing beats a convertible or a fun sports car like a Ford Mustang. Top down, music up, and the open road ahead!

Bonus Tip: Before you head out on summer adventures, make sure your ride is road-trip ready. Check your tires, A/C, and fluids — and if you need a better summer car, 423 Auto has you covered.

July 8, 2025 – Cars, Summer, and a Little Bit of Fun at 423 Auto LLC

Happy Tuesday from all of us at 423 Auto LLC! We hope you’re cruising through summer with the windows down and your favorite tunes cranked up.

There’s something about summer that just makes driving more fun — weekend road trips, spontaneous ice cream runs, or just a relaxing evening drive to soak in the sunset. The right car can make all the difference, and that’s where we come in!

At 423 Auto, we’re not just selling cars — we’re helping you find the ride that fits your life and your adventures. Whether you need something roomy for the family, sporty for fun, or fuel-efficient for all those summer miles, we’ve got you covered.

Come by this week, check out our fresh inventory, and let’s find your next favorite car. After all, nothing says summer like a little freedom on four wheels — and maybe a little AC, too.

3951 Ringgold Road, East Ridge, TN
423auto.com
423-800-7781

Stay cool, have fun, and keep on riding!