SPRING BREAK TRAVEL TIPS

By dlynch | Posted in Uncategorized on Tuesday, March 16th, 2021 at 1:16 PM

Are you planning on a road trip for spring break? After a long year of staying home, we can’t blame you! Before you hit the open road, we want you to think about your vehicle, some that may have been sitting in your driveway unused for most of last year.  Here’s a few tips to ensure your travel is set up for success:

1. Schedule Your Oil Change

One of the easiest ways to maintain your vehicle is to ensure the oil and fluids are changed regularly.  Be sure to call our Guest Services department at 859-276-3546 a few weeks prior to your trip to schedule a reservation.  This will also give time to correct any concerns your technician may bring to your attention.

2. Check Your Wipers

Another easy item on your checklist- wiper blades!  These are easy to replace and make a huge impact if you run into inclement weather.  You should also check that washer fluid level while you’re at it, topping off if necessary

3. Daylight Savings?  Check those bulbs!

With daylight savings time coming up, take the early morning darkness as a time to  check those bulbs.  A quick visual once over on your exterior lights can catch any concerns that may pop up prior to travelling

4. Windows Down, AC Up

Warmer weather can mean windows down, but it can also be time to crank up that AC.  Have your systems serviced during routine maintenance and be confident that you can stay cool while travelling.

5. Emergency Assistance

Even the best intentions can sometimes not predict an issue popping up.  Check your insurance policies, warranties and roadside assistance options before your trip.  This is one item that while you hope you don’t need it, you will be happy to have if you do.

Prepping your vehicle will allow you to focus on all the fun to come.  Where will you eat? What about some fun stops?  Schedule your service at Don Jacobs today.  Your service advisor can’t wait to hear all about your adventures! 

Make Annual Car Maintenance Your Resolution for 2021

By dlynch | Posted in Uncategorized on Wednesday, February 17th, 2021 at 6:57 PM
The 2021 New Year journey and future vision concept . Businessman traveling on highway road leading forward to happy new year celebration in beginning of 2021 for fresh and successful start .

Happy New Year from Don Jacobs! 2020 had immense challenges for most, so we look forward
to 2021 with renewed hope and excitement for another trip around the sun.
Are you doing any resolutions this year? Here at Don Jacobs, we believe resolutions aren’t just
for people, but for vehicles too! With a year of many working from home, postponed or
cancelled trip and just generally less vehicle use, we have the opportunity to ensure we are
ready for whatever this year throws at us. We encourage all our customers to make annual
vehicle maintenance their resolution for 2021. Here are our top 5 maintenance items to be
aware of this new year:

  1. Oil Changes: A lot of vehicles will now tell you when it’s ready for service. Did you know
    this can be mileage based, but can also be triggered with time. Has your vehicle been
    sitting all year? It may be time to get it in for an oil change! Let us help to get your
    vehicle in tip top shape so you can hit the open road when you’re ready.
  2. Fluid Check: Make a point of regularly checking the fluid levels in your vehicle. Four
    critical fluids are brake, power steering coolant and transmission. Getting these fluid
    levels correct can help prevent bigger issues down the road, as each of these is critical
    to proper vehicle function.
  3. Tires: Tires help with fuel efficiency and the way your vehicle handles overall. Check the
    treads on your tire to ensure they are safe, as well as the tire pressure. We are happy to
    assist with these services during your routine maintenance visits at no additional charge.
  4. Wipers: There is nothing more frustrating than turning on your wipers to realize they
    need to be replaced. Check to ensure your wipers are ready to go for that snow shower
    or rain pop up before you need them. This a quick and easy maintenance item to check
    off your list.
  5. Wash Clean: Winter can bring debris, snow, salt and other road hazards to the surface.
    Treat your vehicle to a wash or detail this year. Regular cleaning not only keeps your
    vehicle feeling new, it also helps to protect paint integrity.
    Resolve to make this the year to take better care of your vehicle. Visit us online at
    www.donjacobs.com to learn more or call 859-276-3546 to have a Guest Services team
    member help schedule your annual maintenance today.

50 Years

By skenney | Posted in Uncategorized on Friday, February 12th, 2021 at 9:08 PM

The year was 1971.  Amtrak railroad began its operation.  The 97th Kentucky Derby resulted in a win by Gustavo Avila aboard Canonero II.  The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18.  Walt Disney World opened in Bay Lake, Florida.  The Chrysler New Yorker was the bestselling car.  With all these events going on, we also had a milestone taking place right here at Don Jacobs in Lexington, KY.

Joe Mefford, a master Volkswagen Technician, started his automotive career at Don Jacobs in 1971.  50 years later, he’s one of the first employees hired, exceptionally loyal and has exhibited outstanding performance year in and out as a master technician.  As Dee Hock, founder of Visa credit card, explains, “An organization, no matter how well designed, is only as good as the people who live and work in it.”

We thank Mr. Mefford for his dedication and tenure.  We surely are the better as an organization for his contributions and appreciate the time and efforts he has exhibited over the years to assist in our success.

THE SPIRIT OF GIVING AT DON JACOBS

By dlynch | Posted in Uncategorized on Monday, December 21st, 2020 at 4:29 PM

Don Jacobs Automotive, announced an end of year charitable giving to support local organizations in Lexington that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

To raise the $20,000 in funds, employees and customers of Don Jacobs were invited to donate.  Once monies came in, owner Don Jacobs matched their donations dollar for dollar.  Owner Don Jacobs asserted “Our goal is to generously give back to the community that has supported our business for the last 50 years.”

THE TOY CHEST

Based out of Lexington, the Toy Chest helps provide toys, books, clothing and other essential items to underserved children.  With this donation, we were able to sponsor over 20 kids! To learn more, visit https://www.thetoychest.org/

THE NEST

The Nest is a center for women, children and families aims to assist with child care, counseling services, parenting classes and crisis care.  Right now they are raising money to help keep their organization thriving so they can continue their work towards providing care to women and family in our communities.  Learn more at https://thenestlexington.org/

CASA

CASA, or court Appointed Special Advocates, are a group of trained and supervised volunteers that advocate through the court system to ensure all victims of child abuse and neglect are safe and thrive in a permanent home.  With this donation, we have provided 2 abused or neglected children with a CASA volunteer or advocate and entire year! Learn more at https://casaoflexington.org/

NEW DAY LIFE CENTER

New life day center is a homeless day center here in town that is working to ensure a safe place for displaced families and individuals.  Covid has devastated a lot of homes and they are trying to help any one they can that can’t pay rent or to help them relocate to a new home.  Thank you New life Day center for the work that you are doing.  Follow them on facebook, and please reach out if you need help or if you are capable of helping. 

GOD’S PANTRY

For 65 years, God’s Pantry has been providing food to our communities through community contributions and service. Not only do they provide food for homes, they support soup kitchens, shelters, and youth programs.  To find ways to get involved, check out their website at https://godspantry.org/ and like their facebook page where they are constantly posting opportunities to help our community.  We also have boxes out for the food drive if you want to bring a can with you to your next service.  Thank you God’s pantry for the incredible work you do!

LEXINGTON RESCUE MISSION

They provide all around care for the community.  They provide community meals, helping people access basic needs such as housing, clothing, pharmacy, household supplies, laundry services.  They also provide housing assistance, and job support, and transitional houses for men and women trying to get back on their feet.  They will also provide you with spiritual care.  To learn more, visit lexingtonrescue.org

Thank you to all of these charities for their hard work and dedication.  Also, thank you to Mr. Jacobs, our incredible employees, and our generous customers that helped us raise this money.  We have more to come!

Experience Concierge Service at Don Jacobs

By dlynch | Posted in Uncategorized on Wednesday, December 9th, 2020 at 3:18 PM

Planning a visit to Don Jacobs?  We are rolling out the red carpet to welcome you in all areas, with a special focus on ensuring the safety of our guests and employees.  We wanted to share ways we are staying #healthyatwork.

Don Jacobs Honda, BMW or Volkswagen are open for service.  You will find we have new protocols to ensure a contact-less experience where possible.   When you pull in, your service advisor will direct you through current protocols to avoid contact where possible. Our waiting area is still open!   We have spaced chairs 6+ feet apart and our maintenance team ensures the area is cleaned throughout the day.  We also offer additional seating outside.  If you prefer a contact-less experience, please utilize our curb-side drop off and pick up option.

Our sales departments are eager and excited to help you pursue your dream car.  We are making this process simpler than ever!  With an experienced team of Guest Service Representatives ready and waiting to assist, we would love the opportunity to walk you through your vehicle buying experience from the comfort of your own home.  We have a lot of contact-less options to customize your concierge experience to what makes sense for you and your family.

We appreciate and thank our loyal guests for their understanding and patience through these unprecedented times.  We are committed to staying #healthyatwork so you can stay #healthyathome!  Your safety and that of our employees, is at the forefront of our concierge experience.  For any additional questions or scheduling, please call Guest Services at 859-276-3546 or visit us at www.donjacobs.com.

2020 and 20201 Atlas Safety Review

By dlynch | Posted in Uncategorized on Monday, November 16th, 2020 at 4:32 PM

We are excited to share the news that the 2020 and 2021 Atlas has received the highest overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  NHTSA bases their ratings on frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. 

2020 and 2021 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport

The Atlas uses both passive and active safety systems to help protect occupants.  Among some of these features are: 6 airbags as standard (both Atlas and Atlas cross sport) anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, and post-collision

2020 BMW M5 In-Depth Review From Car and Driver

By Don Jacobs | Posted in BMW on Friday, July 17th, 2020 at 9:00 PM
BMW M5

Car and Driver’s review of the 2020 BMW M5 takes a look at what’s different with this year’s version, pricing, performance, interior, safety and coverage. Link to full article here.

BMW M5

Overview

Don’t call it a comeback. The BMW M5 has been here for years. However, the latest generation is rocking its peers and putting fear in the hearts of other sports sedans. Uncorking 600-plus horsepower from its twin-turbo V-8, the 2020 M5 accelerates with unbridled ferocity. Its standard all-wheel-drive system can even send all that power to the rear wheels for drivers who like to hang out the tail. Indeed, BMW has reinvented an icon that had become almost unrecognizable. While the M5 is still a big luxury sedan loaded with high-tech gadgetry, it now has a maniacal side that lately has been missing from the company’s storied M division.

What’s New for 2020?

For 2020, BMW makes small changes to the M5 lineup that include new standard equipment and a limited-run M5 Edition 35 Years. Every model now comes with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, real-time traffic info, remote services, and wireless device charging. The U.S. will only get 35 of the awkwardly named M5 Edition 35 Years, which is based on the Competition model and includes unique gold interior trim as well as exclusive Frozen Dark Grey II exterior paint.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

  •  M5: $104,695
  •  M5 Competition: $111,995

Those who want the ultimate 5-series should choose the M5 Competition, which we think is the better M5. That choice requires shelling out an extra $7300 for 17 more horses, specially tuned suspension settings, and some unique styling bits. The upgrades don’t compromise the 5’s ride quality or livability. We’d add the 20-inch wheels (19s are standard) and the Executive package. The latter brings luxuries such as ventilated front seats with massage functions, heated front and rear seats, soft-close doors, four-zone automatic climate control, self-parking assist, and more.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Sporting a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 with 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, the M5 is mighty quick. At our test track, it launched to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds and snapped off a 10.9-second quarter-mile time at 129 mph; top speed is a governor-limited 163 mph. An even more powerful M5 Competition model is now available and makes 617 horsepower. It proved to be quicker than the regular M5 on a real racetrack at our annual Lightning Lap. The M5 faithful will lament the discontinued manual gearbox and unfamiliar all-wheel-drive system, but this Bimmer has a high-tech drivetrain that can send 100 percent of power to the rear wheels for pure rear-drive personality. Driving enjoyment is maximized here with lively and direct steering, a well-controlled (borderline stiff) ride, and heroic cornering grip. That doesn’t mean the M5 can’t also do duty as a luxury sedan: In Comfort mode, it cruises placidly and the cabin is whisper quiet.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA estimates that the regular M5 and its Competition variant will earn 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Both figures are worse than the Porsche Panamera Turbo (18 mpg city and 25 highway) and similar to the Mercedes-AMG E63 S sedan (15 mpg city and 25 highway). We tested the M5 Competition on our 200-mile fuel-economy route where it exceeded its government rating by 3, with a result of 24-mpg highway.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2020 M5 has an elegant leather interior with supple and supportive sport seats. The driver’s seating position is optimized for performance-style driving, and BMW hasn’t gone the all-touchscreen route that many of its rivals have, so making changes to the air conditioning or adjusting the radio during driving causes little distraction. There’s also a slew of desirable standard features that include customizable ambient interior lighting, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. Further options include ventilated front seats with massage functions, heated rear seats, and four-zone automatic climate control. Along with useful interior cubby storage, the M5’s trunk held six carry-on suitcases in our test.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The M5’s large infotainment display runs BMW’s latest iDrive software, sits atop the dash to the right of the driver’s sightlines, and is controlled by a rotary knob on the center console. While Android Auto capability isn’t available, Apple CarPlay integration and a Wi-Fi hotspot are standard. There’s also a 16-speaker, 600-watt Harman/Kardon audio system and wireless device charging on all 2020 models. Those who want even fancier features can opt for the optional rear-seat entertainment system and 16-speaker, 1400-watt Bowers & Wilkins sound system.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2020 M5 hasn’t been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The sports sedan does offer a wide variety of standard and optional driver-assistance technology. Key safety features include:

  •  Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
  •  Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
  •  Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW provides a limited warranty and powertrain protection that aligns with luxury rivals.

  •  Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
  •  Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
  •  Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles

See the BMW M5 at Don Jacobs.

$200 Certificate to Support Local Economy

By Don Jacobs | Posted in News on Thursday, July 2nd, 2020 at 12:41 PM

This July 4th weekend, with the purchase of a vehicle, Don Jacobs will provide a $200 certificate to any Lexington locally-owned business of your choice. Our community has been hit hard over the last few months and this is one way we can team up to assist our business owners, employees and their families. Thank you for helping our Lexington community through this! Contact our Guest Services team to get going with your support.

Top 5 Reasons for Buying Certified Pre-Owned

By Don Jacobs | Posted in Honda on Wednesday, June 24th, 2020 at 2:53 PM
Honda TrueCertified Pre-Owned 2017 CR-V

Ross Taylor (Pre-Owned Sales Manager at Don Jacobs) breaks down 5 great reasons for buying a Honda TrueCertified Pre-Owned vehicle.

Not every vehicle can qualify to be Honda TrueCertified, so that ranks these vehicles the best of most pre-owned vehicles. To be qualified, the vehicle has to pass a 182-point inspection from our certified technicians. This includes a full vehicle pass, checking tires and tread depth, brake condition, and more. Honda supplements the inspection with a 7-year 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, covering the engine, transmission, and axels. Also added is a 12-month 12,000-mile comprehensive warranty, which covers the electronics and non-powertrain. One big advantage with Certified Pre-Owned vehicles is that you typically get preferred rates from lenders. We’d love the opportunity to walk through all your options at Don Jacobs.

See all our Certified Pre-Owned Honda, BMW and Volkswagen here.

Car and Driver’s Compact SUV Battle

By Don Jacobs | Posted in Honda, Reviews, Volkswagen on Monday, May 18th, 2020 at 11:49 PM
Car and Driver Compact SUV Battle

Car and Driver’s Compact SUV Battle took the compact-crossover category and compared the 2020 Honda CR-V and 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan against the Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4. Here’s their review:

Volkswagen Tiguan

Highs: Go-for-it handling, refined engine, generous cargo space.
Lows:
 Cabin might be a little too minimalist for some, hits the bumps harder than most.
Verdict:
 VW finally builds a broad- appeal crossover that also honors the brand’s sporty side.

The Tiguan feels like a GTI for responsible adults. That’s how it managed to claw its way into second place. Of course, it isn’t a GTI—it’s not nearly as quick or as agile as its road-hugging, hot-hatch stablemate. Physical laws haven’t been suspended here. But the Tig does a commendable job of offering both utility and playfulness.

Immediately noticeable are its light, quick steering and nimble, firmly controlled chassis, which encourage you to dig into two-lanes—though it is sometimes stiff-legged on uneven pavement. The engine hums expensively. It was the quietest at wide-open throttle and the most refined of the group.

The Tiguan also lives up to its family responsibilities. It has plenty of rear kneeroom, and only the CR-V hauls more boxes with the rear seat folded. The VW’s leather-covered seats are among the firmest we’ve encountered in a long time, but they’re nonetheless comfortable and supportive. They’re appropriate in an interior that’s so businesslike, it’s almost spartan. Even that starkness adds to the hot-hatch vibe. The infotainment screen is reasonably large and operates in a straightforward manner, and there are volume and tuning knobs for the audio system.

Volkswagen’s journey to understanding American tastes has been bumpy, but it’s definitely on the right road with this latest Tiguan. It’s sized right, dressed for success, and blessed with the driver-friendly DNA of the company’s best cars. That’s why it’s the salutatorian of this class.

Honda CR-V

Highs: Clever storage, roomy cabin, solid driving dynamics.
Lows:
 Quickest but doesn’t feel it, interior lacks deluxe materials, dated infotainment.
Verdict:
 A highly adaptable tool with solid engineering and thoughtful solutions.

Honda is not into change for change’s sake. The current CR-V evolved only modestly from the last generation, so it’s conservative in both its design and execution. “Climbing into the CR-V is like getting into any Honda,” Hoffman said. In other words, it has the basics right but doesn’t brag.

Those essentials begin with comfortable seats and generous second-row kneeroom. A child seat is an easy fit. The CR-V also accommodates the most boxes with the rear seats folded. The cargo floor has two positions, the higher of which enables a flat load floor from the liftgate opening to the front seatbacks (once you’ve folded the second row, of course). The center console has a lot of storage space and can be configured several different ways to best handle your stuff.

The interior’s ambience doesn’t quite match its practicality, though. The materials are handsome but far from upscale, and the design is not bleeding-edge modern. The tablet-like center-stack screen contains Honda’s last-generation infotainment system. It’s fussy and lacks a tuning knob, and the navigation display is small. Plus, the mechanical shifter protruding from the dashboard clacks inexpensively.

But the CR-V is a solid driver. Its 60-mph time of 7.6 seconds is the quickest of the group, but it doesn’t feel it, due at least in part to the slushy response of its CVT. “I was surprised to see it had 190 horsepower,” said Annie White. “It feels sluggish getting up to speed.” Bursts of throttle also result in some moaning under the hood before the engine settles down to a quiet cruise.

Otherwise, the CR-V is a confident, capable over-the-road machine with direct steering and well-damped body motions. It’s rife with good qualities, which makes it feel like a trusted friend. It’s just that the two crossovers that finished ahead of it have those qualities, too, plus a big dollop of driver engagement, something the CR-V simply doesn’t have.

Read the full article here.

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