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Regularly going for a car wash not only keeps your vehicle looking great, but it also offers a number of practical benefits, such as better safety and fuel efficiency. You should wash your car more often during the winter months or if you enjoy going on off-road or outdoor adventures. Snow, slush, road salt, and mud can cause irreparable damage to your car if left unattended. When it comes time to bring your vehicle to the car wash, you may be wondering if you should opt for a tunnel or touchless car wash. Both methods have their pros and cons, which you need to consider to make the right decision. Check out this detailed comparison between a tunnel car wash and a touchless car wash. more How Does a Touchless Car Wash Work? Image via Unsplash by fahmivamiola The touchless car wash is one of the latest innovations in the car wash industry. Similar to a tunnel car wash, it's an automated system that eliminates the need for human labor. The first stage of a touchless car wash involves using low-pressure nozzles to wet your vehicle. Then, soap is sprayed on all of the exterior surfaces of your car. After the soaping process, the nozzles turn into high-pressure washers to remove the soap. Now that your car is clean, the touchless car wash system uses special cleaners to wash the tires and then applies wax to the paint job. Finally, it's time to dry your vehicle, which is done with powerful air blowers. The benefit of using these blowers is that it prevents water spots from forming, which commonly occurs during drying. A touchless car wash is very accurate and efficient, so you can expect your vehicle to be sparkling clean in just a few minutes. Benefits of a Touchless Car Wash The touchless car wash is gaining popularity among drivers because it offers a number of great benefits, including: Hands-free approach: A touchless car wash uses intense water pressure to get rid of stubborn dirt and stuck debris. It doesn't apply any friction or come into direct contact with your vehicle, except for the water and cleaning agents. As such, you can rest assured your car won't be scratched or damaged. This is the main advantage of a touchless car wash. Effective cleaning: The computer-controlled laser sensors of a touchless car wash are able to accurately detect the shape of your vehicle to ensure optimal coverage of the water jets. With this technology, the system can wash certain vehicles that may not be compatible with other types of automated car wash, such as off-road vehicles with oversized tires and trucks with dual tires. How Does a Tunnel Car Wash Work? Image via Flickr by mikecogh The tunnel car wash is probably the largest robot you'll encounter in normal life. It consists of a tough rust-resistant aluminum frame that can support its enormous weight and a conveyor belt capable of moving a vehicle that weighs up to 30 tons, as well as high-pressure friction mechanisms, regulators, and sensors. An effective tunnel car wash can remove grease, bird droppings, and insects from the surface of your vehicle in five minutes or less. The process of going through a tunnel car wash begins with pre-soaking, which involves applying a mild alkali and rinsing with a mild acid. Then, a detergent is added for deep cleaning. The main section of the car wash has two to five vertical brushes for washing the sides of your vehicle and at least one horizontal brush for cleaning the top surface. In the final stage, the machine uses a high-pressure fan to dry your car. In some cases, wax is added to protect your paint job from fading, scratches, and ultraviolet light. Benefits of a Tunnel Car Wash Despite the emergence of new car wash technologies, the tunnel car wash continues to be one of the most preferred options for drivers who want to keep their vehicles clean. Below are a few good reasons why you should opt for a tunnel car wash: Safe and thorough cleaning: A good tunnel car wash uses soft, foam-like cloths and high-pressure brushes to scrub off tough stains without scratching your vehicle. These cloths are thoroughly rinsed after each vehicle, so you can be sure your car will get a fresh wash every time. With physical scrubbing action, a tunnel car wash does a better job of emulsifying and removing dirt and grease than a touchless car wash. This is especially important for North Dakota drivers, whose vehicles accumulate a lot of road salt and grime in winter. Paint-safe detergents: Since it doesn't make physical contact with your vehicle, a touchless car wash relies on acidic and high-pH chemicals to break down dirt. Such chemicals may cause damage to your car's wax coating or protective ceramic coating. A tunnel car wash usually uses quality detergents that can get rid of stubborn stains and calcium water spots while protecting your paint job. Targeted cleaning: An advanced tunnel car wash is equipped with a sophisticated technology known as a vehicle profile detector. This system uses sonar mapping to identify the dimensions and shape of each vehicle and then customize every wash to suit different vehicles. Therefore, a tunnel car wash is capable of cleaning hard-to-reach areas such as cracks and crevices. Lower cost: A tunnel car wash uses significantly less water to wash a vehicle than a touchless car wash, making it a more cost-effective option. Give Your Vehicle a Good and Fast Cleaning at the Rydell Car Wash If you're looking for a great place to wash your vehicle, consider going to Rydell Car Wash. Our state-of-the-art car wash system is specially designed to thoroughly remove the stubborn dirt and grime commonly found on North Dakota vehicles, particularly during winter. It also uses ultra-soft cloths and top-quality detergents to prevent damage to your vehicle. The layout of our car wash enables you to get in and out easily and quickly, making the task of cleaning your car a breeze. We also offer complimentary vacuums for cleaning the inside of your vehicle. Contact Rydell Cars If you have any inquiries about the Rydell Car Wash, don't hesitate to contact us.

As residents of North Dakota know, keeping your boat looking great isn't always easy. We take them out fishing or out on a lake a few times, and before we know it, it's covered in mud and grime. Now your once new boat looks like it has been around for years. You spent a lot of money on your boat and you want it to look its best whenever you take it out. For this to happen, you need to regularly clean and detail your boat. But what exactly does this include? Below are the steps typically involved with boat detailing and cleaning, along with a simple way for North Dakota residents to take care of it. more Basic Exterior Cleaning Image via Pexels by Baptiste Valthier All boat detailing begins with a basic exterior cleaning. You first rinse your boat, removing any loose dirt or other debris. A good tip when rinsing your boat is to start at the top so that you don't have to rinse the same area multiple times. After rinsing off the boat, you can then begin to scrub down the outside using a bucket of water, some soap made specifically for boats, and a soft brush. Clean in small areas at a time and rinse off everything again when you're done. Then grab some towels to dry off the entire boat. You'll need some very absorbent towels, so have plenty standing by. It's also a good idea to do this in a sunny spot so the heat can help with the drying process. Finally, as you're drying, buff the exterior of the boat to prepare it for coats of sealant and wax later. Cleaning the Floors After cleaning the outside of the boat, you can then move to the interior. For the floors, the method of cleaning depends on the material. For example, if you have non-skid flooring, you'll want to use a strong brush to give it a thorough cleaning. It may take some time to remove all the grime from your floors, as these areas are often the dirtiest. A good tip is to put the boat on land, tip it with the stern on the lower end and open up the drain plug. You can then use a hose to clean the floor faster and allow the water to flow out. For carpeted areas, you'll need to use a vacuum. You may even need to soak the carpet with a carpet cleaner, then rinse it out and wait for it to dry. To speed up the drying process, use the vacuum to suction up some of the water. Polishing Any Chrome For boats with chrome parts, you'll need a special polish. Use chrome polish on areas such as ladders, railings, seats, etc. Start with a small amount and apply it using a soft towel. The directions on the chrome polish should provide more explicit instructions on how to achieve the best results. Cleaning Off the Dashboard Your dashboard has a lot of electronic equipment, so be careful as you clean it. Grab cleaning solution specifically designed to clean dash instrumentation safely. Follow the directions closely so that you do not accidentally damage anything. Our dashes get very dirty, as we always have our hands all over them. It's not a bad idea to keep a bottle of dash cleaner nearby and use it after a particularly messy boating expedition, such as fishing. Adding Sealants and Wax To protect your boat against UV rays, and keep it looking like new, you should consider applying some boat sealants and wax. However, there is a difference between the two. Boat owners use sealants to fill in the pores of the boat's gel coat. These sealants protect the boat for an entire season, meaning you'll need to re-apply about once a year. Boat wax, on the other hand, should go on every three to four months. Applying wax regularly makes it easier to clean and really improves the shine of your boat. Before applying boat wax, you need to clean and buff your boat, meaning you need to do this step last. When buying boat wax and sealant, be sure you get the right kind. You need a sealant that is specifically for boats and the type of finish of your boat. Getting the wrong kind can damage your boat or prove less effective. Cleaning the Boat Cover Finally, if you use a cover for your boat, don't forget to clean this. Placing a dirty cover on top of a clean boat undoes all your hard work. At the very least, use your hose to spray off the interior of the boat cover before placing it back on the boat. Boat Cleaning and Detailing Made Easy in Grand Forks, ND Giving your boat the thorough cleaning it deserves takes time. This is especially true at this time of year, as snow begins to melt, more dirt finds its way into our boats. Rather than spending a significant amount of time detailing your boat, time you could spend fishing or relaxing on the lake, there's a simpler solution. The team at Rydell Auto Group handles more than just car detailing. Our boat detailing service team is here to help your boat look new again in a short amount of time. Whether you're taking your boat out of storage for the first time this year, planning to put it away soon, or just want a midseason touch-up, we have all the tools and chemicals needed for a thorough cleaning. Schedule Specialty Boat Detailing in Grand Forks, ND Are you in need of boat detailing? Schedule an appointment for boat detailing at the Rydell Detail Center. Or, if you have any questions about the best way to care for your boat, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are always available to answer questions or provide a quote for our boat detailing services.

When you need to satisfy your sweet tooth, nothing but a delicious dessert will do. Fortunately, you'll find several places near Hillsboro, North Dakota, where you can get your favorite sweet treats. Whether you're looking for a dessert for a special occasion or you're simply interested in treating yourself to something tasty, you know you can find the best desserts when you visit these recommended places around Hillsboro. more The Hillsboro Cafe Image via Flickr by Joel Olives The Hillsboro Cafe is a warm and welcoming spot located right in the heart of Hillsboro. Whether you need a hot cup of coffee to get you going in the morning or a hearty meal to help you finish the day, you know you'll find it at The Hillsboro Cafe. You'll also discover plenty of mouth-watering desserts! As you're enjoying your burger or sandwich for lunch or your pork chop or roast beef for dinner, make sure you leave room for dessert. The cafe offers fresh bakery treats every day, including pies, cookies, cakes, and bread pudding. The cafe has also created the unique Cupcakes for Lunch program. Owners Kate and Derek Ehnert appreciated that the Hillsboro School District never turns away a student at lunch, regardless of account status. They wanted to help the school district offset these costs, so they created the Cupcakes for Lunch program. Every month, Kate creates a special cupcake and sells it at the cafe. Proceeds from these sales go to the school district to help pay for hot lunches. In addition to dine-in seating, The Hillsboro Cafe also offers takeout and curbside pickup options. Northside Cafe Northside Cafe is a family-friendly restaurant located about 35 minutes north of Hillsboro in Grand Forks. The cafe has been serving the community since 2006. If you happen to be near the restaurant around Christmas, be sure to stop in to try some of its famous lutefisk and lefse. Lutefisk is a traditional Scandinavian dish made from codfish treated with lye. At the cafe, it's served with lefse, which is a popular Norwegian flatbread that's typically made with potatoes. If you visit any other time of year, you'll find a menu full of classic dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When your meal is done, check out all of the temptations on the dessert menu. Kids love ordering one of the warm and gooey cookies for dessert. In addition to a rotating variety of cream pies and fruit pies, the restaurant always has pumpkin, lemon, and pecan pies available. For an extra-special treat, consider having your fruit pie served a la mode. You can also check out the pastry case to see the other goodies offered that day. Plus, don't forget that the restaurant sells whole pies for you to take home. Nichole's Fine Pastry & Cafe Situated about 40 minutes south of Hillsboro in the heart of downtown Fargo, Nichole's Fine Pastry & Cafe is a cozy place that was featured on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" in January 2021. Not only does the cafe have an outstanding selection of menu items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but it's also where you can find a delicious collection of traditional European and classic American desserts. With so many fantastic options available, you might have a hard time deciding what to order. If you're in the mood for cake, you can choose between four-layer cakes and mousse cakes. The red velvet cake is always a good four-layer choice. Other popular four-layer options include coconut cake, zebra cake, spice cake, carrot cake, and confetti cake. Delicious mousse cake options include chocolate peanut butter crunch cake, Black Forest cake, Boston cream cake, and Nichole's signature birthday cake. Other popular menu items are cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, pecan cinnamon rolls, cocoa truffles, and cookies. You can also order one of the bars, with some tasty flavor options that include lemon, date, pumpkin, and caramel pecan. Nichole's Fine Pastry & Cafe has dine-in and takeout options. For convenience, you can order online for delivery or curbside pickup. Mama H's Sweets & Treats If you're looking for a dessert to serve at a special occasion, Mama H's Sweets & Treats is the place to go. Located southwest of Hillsboro in Ayr, Mama H's is a small-town bakery that makes stunning creations that are almost too beautiful to eat. The bakery sells wedding cakes, special occasion cakes, cheesecakes, custom sugar cookies, drop cookies, muffins, bars, brownies, macarons, doughnuts, caramel rolls, and cinnamon rolls. All of these treats are perfect for weddings, engagement parties, anniversary parties, birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, business meetings, and more. When you're ready to order, you first have to decide which cake flavor you want. Some of the popular flavors include carrot, strawberry, German chocolate, brown sugar vanilla, confetti, cookies and cream, Key lime, and lemon. Next, you get to choose your frosting flavor. Consider delicious options like vanilla or chocolate buttercream, cream cheese, and peanut butter. Finally, you get to decide whether or not you would like your cake to have a filling. Some good options include strawberry jam, chocolate ganache, and whipped mousse. Scoop N Dough Candy Co. Scoop N Dough Candy Co. is fun ice cream and sweets shop located in downtown Fargo. When you want to cool down with a heaping scoop of ice cream, you'll find flavors that range from Coconut Explosion and Cookie Monster to Black Cherry and Big Muddy. You can then decide whether you want one scoop, two scoops, or three scoops in a cup, sugar cone, or waffle cone. Other popular treats at the shop are edible cookie dough, flavored popcorn, milkshakes, and floats. Scoop N Dough Candy Co. works with Bite Squad, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, so you can have your sweet treats delivered right to you. Contact Rydell Cars When those of us at Rydell Auto Group need to tame our sweet tooth, we grab a sweet treat at one of these best places to get dessert around Hillsboro. Did we forget to mention your favorite spot? Please be sure to contact us and let us know so we can try it ourselves.

Hail can damage your vehicle when you're least expecting it, since storms and other extreme weather events are notoriously difficult to predict. Luckily, some insurance policies cover body shop repairs for hail damage to your car. Even if your policy doesn't provide coverage, you can take several steps to protect your vehicle from damage. Here's a rundown of what you need to know about hail damage, your auto insurance policy, and how you can get hail damage repaired. more Which Insurance Policies Cover Hail Damage? Image via Flickr by Paul Sableman Hail damage to your car is covered by policies with comprehensive insurance. This optional add-on to most insurance policies is sometimes referred to as comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive insurance is designed to pay out the costs of damage to your vehicle that doesn't occur during a car crash or accident. As a result of the additional protection it offers, you usually have to pay higher premiums to obtain comprehensive coverage. If you're driving a rented vehicle when a hail storm strikes, the damage will likely be covered. Most rental companies have comprehensive insurance for their vehicles. Which Policies Do Not Cover Hail Damage? Collision insurance policies won't cover hail damage to your vehicle. That's because this type of insurance only covers damage caused during a collision with another vehicle or a road accident. Liability insurance also doesn't cover hail damage. A liability policy protects you from being financially responsible for any damage you cause to another person's property, like their vehicle, during an accident. Liability insurance can also pay for another person's medical bills if they suffer an injury as a result of an accident caused by you. How Do You Know If Making a Claim Is Worthwhile? If a hail storm has damaged your car, the first thing you should try to do is get the damage assessed by an auto technician so you know how much the repairs are likely to cost. Most insurance policies include a deductible, which is an amount of money you must pay when you make a claim. For example, if you have a deductible of $500, this means that the first $500 of any costs related to your claim is paid by you. If the cost to repair your vehicle is less than your deductible, it won't be worth your while to make a claim. Even if the cost is slightly above your deductible, you may decide not to pursue a claim through your comprehensive coverage. This is because claims are registered on your insurance record and can result in your premiums increasing. Some insurance policies may offer a very low deductible or no deductible at all, which can be helpful if you experience regular hail storms. However, you'll probably need to pay higher premiums to get such a policy. Another point to keep in mind is that some policies may waive the deductible for glass damage. For instance, if your windshield is cracked in a hail storm and it can be repaired, the repair may be covered by your policy without any requirement for you to pay a deductible. If you're unsure whether your policy contains this provision, try talking to your insurance agent to find out. Is It Worth Repairing Cosmetic Damage? If the cost to repair cosmetic damage is less than your deductible or you don't have comprehensive coverage, you may be considering not getting it repaired in order to save money. You're free to make this choice, but remember that it could affect the resale price for your vehicle if you plan to trade it in at a later date. Additionally, if you lease a car or took out an auto loan to pay for it, the company you're leasing from or your lender may require you to keep your vehicle in good condition. This may mean that you have to pay for the repairs to stay in compliance with the terms of your agreement. What Happens If a Car Is Totaled? Your vehicle is considered totaled if the cost to repair the damage is higher than the vehicle's value. This can occur due to hail, which in a worst-case scenario can damage your car across its entire bodywork. After an insurer decides that your vehicle is totaled, they will usually send you a check minus your deductible. You can then put the money towards buying a new car. What Can You Do to Protect Your Car From Hail Damage? The first thing to do is to ensure that you have comprehensive coverage. Remember that you need to request this type of coverage in advance of bad weather. Many insurers put a stop on new requests for comprehensive coverage if a storm warning has been issued for your area. This is done to stop consumers from only purchasing comprehensive insurance for short periods. If you decide not to purchase comprehensive insurance due to the additional cost or other factors, you can still safeguard your vehicle from hail. Consider buying a hail protection blanket, which is a soft covering you can place over your vehicle to protect it from the elements when it's parked. You can also try to park your car in a garage or other indoor location during a storm. If you're on the road during a hail storm, try to pull over under an overpass or other sheltered area until it passes. If you don't have access to a garage at home, you can set up a carport in your driveway instead. This is a structure that covers your vehicle to prevent harsh weather conditions from causing damage. Schedule Hail Damage Repair in Grand Forks Now you know a little bit more about how insurance policies respond to hail damage and how you can protect your vehicle from storms. We hope we've been able to answer all of your questions. But if you're still unsure about anything, feel free to contact us, or arrange an appointment at our body shop in Grand Forks to get your hail damage assessed.

Located in western Minnesota along the Red Lake River, Crookston is an endearing small city surrounded by plenty of natural beauty. The best way to explore this area is on a simple hike or bike ride. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of nature trails around Crookston for hikers and bikers of all ages. When you're ready to get outside and discover the scenery around Crookston, check out a few of these top nature trails – and then make sure to refuel at one of our favorite Thief River Falls restaurants! more Agassiz Recreational Trail Image via Flickr by Tony Webster The Agassiz Recreational Trail is a 53-mile multi-use rail-trail that runs between Crookston and Ulen. If you're starting the trail in Crookston, you can find parking at the intersection of Highway 9 and Highway 102. From there, you can head south on the natural-surface trail through scenic Minnesota farmland and sparsely wooded stretches. There are several creek and river crossings along the route, including the Mashaug Creek, Sand Hill River, Wild Rice River, and South Branch Wild Rice River. You'll also have an opportunity to pass through some small towns, such as Gary, Fertile, and Twin Valley. You might also spot some native wildlife along the trail. Deer, squirrels, and coyotes have all been known to frequent the area. The Agassiz Recreational Trail is open to hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, and ATV riders in the warmer months, as well as cross-country skiers and snowmobile riders in the winter months. Veterans' Military Memorial Loop You don't have to go far to enjoy the scenic beauty around Crookston. In fact, you can visit the Veterans' Military Memorial Loop, right in the city. This easy loop uses existing roads and sidewalks to make a walk that shows off the picturesque parts of the area. Locken Park is an excellent place to start. You can park near here and take the bridge over the Red Lake River. Once you reach the other side, keep following the sidewalk down East Robert Street until you reach Fairfax Avenue. You can then take Fairfax Avenue west to South Main Street. Walking north along South Main Street will once again take you on a scenic stroll next to the Red Lake River. You'll also enter Riverside Park. When you reach South Broadway, you can take the bridge across the Red Lake River and make your way back to Locken Park. Or you can cross the street and take a walk through the Wildflower Garden. This colorful green space is filled with diverse flowers that attract bees and butterflies. It also has many benches where you can sit down and relax, if you don't want to be on your feet the whole time. Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge Glacial Ridge National Wildlife Refuge is a large tract of protected land located about 16 miles southeast of Crookston. While the refuge started as 2,300 acres, it will eventually reach 37,756 acres in size. This will make it one of the largest wetland and tallgrass prairie restoration projects in the country. The purpose of the refuge is to conserve and restore land that's vital to the wildlife in the area. It's also a great place to get outside and explore nature. You can find an information kiosk and a 0.5-mile walking trail in the refuge on Minnesota State Highway 32. This kiosk introduces you to the refuge and offers more details about other places you can explore. While you're on the walking trail, keep an eye out for some of the refuge's resident animals. In the sky, you might spot marbled godwits, sandhill cranes, and northern harriers. On the ground, you might glimpse a white-tailed deer and moose. The Greenway If you're searching for an outdoor experience like no other, head about 25 miles northwest to Grand Forks, North Dakota, and check out The Greenway. The Greenway is around 2,200 acres of natural open space in Grand Forks and East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Along with a campground, several parks, three disc golf courses, two golf courses, and shore bank fishing spots, The Greenway has over 20 miles of multi-purpose trails that are just waiting for you to explore. You'll find walking trails on both sides of the Red River. You'll also discover a series of trail entrances at various points along The Greenway. Most of these trail entrances have paved parking lots and a break in the floodwall or dike, so you can easily access the trails. Other amenities you'll find at some of the trail entrances include restrooms, playgrounds, and picnic areas. A portion of The Greenway also runs through downtown Grand Forks, offering a fantastic way to explore the exciting attractions and events that the city has to offer. Bottineau Trail If you travel about 22 miles northeast of Crookston, you'll discover the charming town of Red Lake Falls. The town is on the intersection of the Clearwater River and the Red Lake River, and it offers a variety of nature trails you can explore. One popular option is the Bottineau Trail. This 3-mile rail-trail was named for Minnesota frontiersman Pierre Bottineau. Riverside Park is a convenient place to enter the walking and bicycling trail because it's about halfway between the northern and southern terminus and offers plenty of parking. The park also has a picnic area, water, restrooms, and camping. If you start here and head north, you'll cross the Clearwater River over a 467-foot historic Warren pony truss bridge that was built in 1915. From there, you'll travel through a wooded corridor before crossing the Red Lake River and, finally, reaching the northern terminus. If you head south, you'll travel through Red Lake Falls and follow the Clearwater River before reaching the southern terminus at Oak Knolls Golf Club. Contact Rydell Cars in Grand Forks At Rydell Auto Group, we love to go for walks and explore the area on these best nature trails around Crookston. We would love to hear about the nature trails in the area that you enjoy and what you like to see when you're on them. Please be sure to contact us and let us know!

While you may not neglect to take a shower regularly, it can be easy to forget when you should give your car a proper wash. Some drivers may not give their car a wash for weeks or even months on end, but that is not a recommended practice.  If you want to show your car proper care, you should regularly schedule time to get your car washed. Doing so will help you protect your vehicle from all the elements that can get it dirty — like acid rain, tree sap, and bird droppings to name a few. We at the Rydell Auto Group want to help all our Grand Forks, North Dakota, drivers keep their cars looking their best. Let's take a look at some more reasons why you should regularly get your car washed. more How Frequently Should a Car Be Washed in the Winter? Photo by camilo jimenez on Unsplash Even if you drive a rugged work truck, if you live in an area that can get heavy loads of snow and ice during the winter months, then you should wash your car or get you car washed in winter once a week at the very least. This may sound like an extreme cleaning schedule, but it is necessary if you want to protect your car's paint job and undercarriage from the damage that can be caused by road salt. There is more to cleaning your car than simply paying attention to a regular schedule. Be sure to wash your vehicle only when the temperature outside is higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If you were to wash your car at lower temperatures, you could actually hurt the exterior of your car. For example, if you were to douse your car with water on a very cold day, the water could freeze and then cause ice damage to your paint. This is one of the many reasons it can be easier and safer to clean your car in winter at a professional car wash. In order to avoid harm from the weather or road salt alike, make sure you have a plan to wash your car as often as the temperature allows. How Frequently Should a Car Be Washed in the Summer? The changing of the seasons also hails the changing of your car wash routine. While the tough conditions of winter may require you to wash your car once every week, the summer season tends to give car owners some time to relax between washes. During these warmer months, you'll only need to wash your car about every two weeks. There are different factors that will affect this schedule, such as how you store your car or where you live. For example, if your area tends to have higher humidity and is prone to hosting a big bug population that seems to find itself decorating your windshield, then you should have your car washed closer to every 10 days or so. Of course, you can also do yourself a favor and store your car in a garage after a wash. This added protection can decrease the need to wash your car dramatically. If you keep your car in a garage or even under a fabric car cover, you could potentially only need to wash your car once a month instead of three times a month. How Frequently Should the Undercarriage Be Washed? Many drivers have not given their car's undercarriage much thought and most would not realize that washing the undercarriage of their car is vital to their car's overall care. It's important to note that while you should be sure to clean the undercarriage, it does not need to be cleaned as frequently as the rest of your car. If you mostly use your car for commutes to work and running errands, the undercarriage of your car should ideally be washed four times a year, or, if it helps you remember, once a season. If you regularly take your car on off-roading adventures or enjoy exploring the path less traveled, you should plan on washing the undercarriage at least six times during the year. How Frequently Should a Car Be Washed To Defend Against Rust? If you are concerned about rust forming on your vehicle, stick to the rule of thumb and wash your car every two weeks during warmer weather. Of course, during the winter when salt is on the road, you should be extra vigilant. When the colder months set in, plan on treating your car to a bath every ten days — not only to defend against road salt damage but rust spots as well. How Often Should a Car Be Waxed? Washing your car is an important step to maintain your car, but you should also be waxing your vehicle. When you wax your car, not only do you give it that new car sheen, but you are also adding a protective layer that blocks the effects of harsh ultraviolet rays, vehicular pollution, and tree sap. Typically, you should only need to complete this task four times during of the year. Of course, if you are driving a classic restoration, you should plan to wax it more frequently. While applying wax to your car does take a bit of work, the overall benefits of doing so are worth all the effort. Should You Use an Automatic Car Wash Regularly? Generic automatic car washes are incredibly convenient but they should only be used if you are in a pinch for time. These car washing services come with a long list of fine print attached because they were not created with every make and model of car in mind. Using an unmanned automatic car wash service regularly can result in a lot of unnecessary headaches like a torn-off antenna that needs replacing, water spots, and the harsh chemicals in such facilities can actually start to destroy your car's clear coat over time, resulting in corrosion and, ultimately, rust. You can avoid all these issues by taking the time to hand wash your car. By implementing this tried and true method you can prevent the usual wear and tear on your vehicle while making it look brand new at the same time. Contact the Rydell Car Wash We at the Rydell Auto Group hope that this article has illustrated the importance of regularly washing your car. If you still have questions about the best way to maintain your vehicle during any season, get in touch with us. We look forward to helping all our Grand Forks drivers.

Keeping your car in tip-top condition involves more than maintaining what's under the hood. It's important to have your vehicle regularly serviced by a competent mechanic, but if you want to maximize the value of your vehicle and keep it looking pristine, you need to keep up on its detailing. This article explains what goes into a full car detailing service and gives you some tips about how to choose a car detailing center that gives you value for your money. more Schedule Detailing Chat With an Expert What Goes Into a Car Detailing Service? Image via Pixabay by pixel2013 You can think of a car detailing service as a thorough and professional version of cleaning both the inside and outside of your vehicle. The goal is to keep your car looking as close to new as possible. Many dealerships offer car detailing services, which cover the following aspects of keeping your car in like-new condition: Paint Job People are very visual when they assess the quality of a vehicle. So, whether you're thinking about selling your vehicle in the future or you just like to take care of your car, maintaining the paint job is critical. The first thing people see when they look at your vehicle is the paint job. If it looks worn, damaged, or scratched, people might assume that your vehicle isn't in the best condition, inside or under the hood. The paint job on your car is delicate, and a professional car detailing service will do what is necessary to clean, correct, and protect the exterior of your vehicle. When it comes to cleaning your paint job, expect a thorough hand washing that covers all nooks and crannies. The cleaning phase should result in little to no dirt or grime on the surface of your car. The correction phase involves removing stains or contaminants from the exterior of your vehicle that washing was unable to remove. This phase typically involves using a clay bar, which is an engineered resin mixture that combats tough-to-remove stains. Finally, steps will be taken to protect and maintain the shine that gives your car a brand-new look. This begins with polishing the car and then applying a wax sealant to maintain its shine. Chassis and Wheels A full car detailing won't just focus on cleaning the parts of your vehicle that the eyes can see. Keeping your vehicle's undercarriage clean is also important. This stage of detailing includes cleaning directly under the car, inside the wheel wells, the splash guards, and the wheels. The wheels should have a protectant applied to them which keeps them from corroding and cracking due to wear and tear. Exterior Lights The exterior lights, including headlamps, taillamps, and fog lights, need to be properly cleaned. Cleaning the exterior lights involves a two-step process that uses different cleaning materials than those used for the paint job. A special polish that can reduce signs of oxidation will be applied. Oxidation occurs when UV light damages the covering on the lights, which discolors them. Additionally, a plastic sealant will be used to provide added protection to the exterior lighting. Interior If you've ever attempted to clean the inside of your car, then you know how much of a challenge it can be. A full car detail involves interior detailing using professional equipment to clean both carpeting and seating surfaces. Using an industrial-grade steam cleaner gets rid of even the toughest stains, while proper vacuuming helps remove dirt and dust that gathers in the various cracks and crevices of your vehicle. Plastic and vinyl materials on the dashboard should be properly cleaned to remove fingerprints and smudges. The detailing service uses microfiber towels during this phase to ensure a lint-free and dust-free finish. How to Choose a Car Detailing Service When choosing a car detailing service, consider the following three factors: Detailing Services Provided Not every car detailing includes the same standard offerings. Some car detailing services only surface clean and vacuum the inside and wash the outside. If you want a full car detailing service that includes all of the aspects mentioned above, you should shop for those features and ask the detailing service exactly what they provide in their detailing service. Company Reputation Finding out the reputation of the detailing service you're considering is easier than ever thanks to the Internet. You can simply look up the detailing service online, and read reviews from actual customers who have experience with the company. The anonymity of the Internet means that people tend to pull no punches — it won't be difficult to gauge if the service didn't meet expectations. If the company has no presence on Google, you can look them up on various social media platforms where customers also leave reviews. Discounts and Loyalty Bonuses Offered The last consideration is to gauge whether the car detailing service makes any effort to go the extra mile with its service. Special offers are a popular way to attract new customers, so look for a car detailing service that offers a discount on your first detailing or a reduced price on certain days of the week. Loyalty bonuses are also worth looking for. Many car detailing services reward repeat customers by giving them special discounts or coupons after a certain number of visits. Aside from being convenient, these loyalty bonuses serve as indicators that the car detailing company is reputable and cares about its customers. Schedule Car Detailing in Grand Forks So, now that you know what to expect from a full car detailing service and how to shop around for the best deal, you can go out and find the right car detailing service for you. Contact our detail center if you want to find out about our exceptional detailing services or take a look at our large selection of new and used vehicles.

If your damaged windshield needs repairs, whether due to a loose bit of debris on the road or a rogue golf ball, it can certainly disrupt your daily plans. Like many drivers, the first thing you may want to figure out is where you can go to have your windshield replaced and how much this type of fix costs. The certified experts at Rydell Auto Body and Glass in Grand Forks can help clear up those questions. We wanted to share this information so you can always be prepared no matter what happens out on the road. more Schedule Windshield Repair in Grand Forks Chat With an Expert How Much Will My Windshield Replacement Cost? On average, a windshield replacement will cost anywhere from $200 to $400. The cost for your windshield replacement is determined not only by the type of auto glass company you hire for the job but also where your car is fixed. If, for example, you schedule a mobile appointment while you're at work, that may cost you more money out of pocket. An insurance company will only cover your expenses if you drop your car off at a shop. The rates for an in-shop fix at an auto body shop are typically lower than having a mechanic come out to you. Let's take a look at other considerations at play that determine the dollar amount of a windshield replacement. What Affects the Cost of a New Windshield Replacement? While the price for a new windshield will vary between different car models and providers, there are definite factors that have an influence on the cost. The make, model, and year of your vehicle is one of the things to consider when you start to get estimates. Typically, the cost to replace the windshield on a brand new, luxury car that's filled to the brim with gizmos and gadgets, like rain sensors, is nearly twice that of an economy vehicle that's got some years on it. You'll also notice that the type of glass your mechanic uses for the replacement will have a marked difference on the price. This is especially true if you would like to have the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) glass installed. Most OEM parts cost a bit more than aftermarket parts since they were designed by the manufacturer of your car and with the specifications needed to fit your car perfectly. Of course, you can help yourself save some money by comparing quotes from different providers to ensure that you're paying the best price for the service you need. When Should I Replace My Windshield? The moment you see any sort of damage to your windshield, such as from a recent hail storm, you should schedule an appointment with your local body shop to have the glass replaced or, at the very least, repaired. A small crack or chip may seem innocuous at first, but these can grow or, as it's commonly called, “spider web” over time. The larger cracks that can form if the glass isn't taken care of quickly have the potential to become not only a danger to you but your passengers as well. You may not realize it, but the windshield of your car is actually a very important safety feature; it is actually labeled as a “safety device.” The windshield assists your car in maintaining its structure. For example, if your car were to flip over in an accident, the windshield would keep the roof from caving in on you. It also supports the performance of your car's passenger-side airbags. This is why you should never hesitate to schedule an appointment with a mechanic if you discover that you have any chips or cracks in the windshield of your car. Can I Replace My Windshield Myself? If you're trying to save money, you may be tempted to experiment with a home adhesive kit; however, this is not an advisable course of action. A home adhesive kit may sound great, but if applied incorrectly, it can lead to leaks in your windshield and further repairs, which will cost you more money in the long run. There are also several different types of adhesives and each one must set for a certain amount of time before it is safe for you to drive your car again. Of course, a low-quality installation by an unreliable repair shop can result in the windshield separating from your car if you were ever to get into an accident. In order to avoid a circumstance like this, choose a reputable company that has certified and insured technicians ready to help you with your windshield replacement. How Can I Ensure a High Quality Repair? Since your windshield plays a large role in driver and passenger safety, it is incredibly important to make sure that you are getting a top-quality job done when you have your windshield replaced. In order to do so, you'll need to keep an eye out for a few things. You should only bring your car into a body shop that can adhere to all adhesive-manufacturer's instructions. They must use products that are approved by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). A reputable body shop will carry adequate insurance for their business and provide you with a written warranty. This includes a detailed record of the work that has been completed for you. Ascertain that the quality of the auto glass adhesive is topnotch; verify the quality of the replacement windshield glass as well. A reliable body shop has certified technicians standing by to assist you. You shouldn't have to wait too long to get back out on the road again either. An expert technician can typically execute a replacement the same day you drop your car off. Contact Rydell Auto Body and Glass for Windshield Repair We hope this article has illustrated why windshield replacements play an important role in increasing your car's lifespan and keeping you safe. If you ever need your windshield replaced or have any questions about a windshield repair, contact the Rydell Auto Body and Glass. Our certified technicians work passionately to keep you safe for whatever adventures await you out on the road.

Are you ready for the 2021 National Collegiate Hockey Conference Frozen Faceoff? Head to Grand Forks, North Dakota, to cheer your favorite college hockey team on. The 2021 NCHC Tournament, normally held in the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, will take place at the Ralph Engelstad Arena in Grand Forks from March 12th through March 16th, 2021. Find out more about the NCHC Tournament, the schedule, format, and other information about Grand Forks so you can enjoy the town and watch this exciting annual tournament. Then, visit one of our Rydell Car Wash locations for a quick wash before you head out! more About the NCHC Tournament Image via Flickr by Union_College The National Collegiate Hockey Conference began in 2011, with six institutions coming together to create a championship college hockey program. The six original colleges included Colorado College, the University of Minnesota Duluth, the University of Denver, the University of Nebraska Omaha, Miami University, and the University of North Dakota. Later in the season, St. Cloud State University and Western Michigan University joined the conference to create the current eight teams that compete in the NCHC Tournament. The inaugural NCHC Tournament was held at the Target Center in Minneapolis, and in 2013, the NCHC championship got the nickname the Frozen Faceoff. In 2017, the NCHC Tournament moved to the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. With NCHC teams representing a variety of states with breathtaking beauty and American traditions, the National Collegiate Hockey Conference stands as the premier college hockey conference in the United States. The Ralph Engelstad Arena in Grand Forks, North Dakota, is proud to host this prestigious event for the 2021 NCHC Tournament. Why Is the Tournament Held in Grand Forks for 2021? Due to COVID-19 related issues, the NCHC commissioner decided that Grand Forks is the best place to hold the 2021 tournament. North Dakota has stated that a limited number of fans can see the tournament in person at the Ralph Engelstad Arena, so the decision to move the tournament to Grand Forks made sense. In addition, the University of North Dakota's hockey team, the Fighting Hawks, will be in the competition, so holding the tournament at home helps inspire the players. The NCHC commissioner, Josh Fenton, felt that holding the tournament in a campus setting with stringent COVID-19 safety procedures will help to ensure the safety of all who will attend the NCHC Tournament. What's the Schedule and Format for the 2021 NCHC Tournament? Different from previous NCHC Tournament seasons, the 2021 tournament is a single-elimination format. The quarterfinals happen on Friday, March 12, and Saturday, March 13, and the times are 2:30 or 7:30 p.m. The semifinals take place on Monday, March 15, at 3 or 8 p.m. The final championship game will occur on Tuesday, March 16, at 7:30 p.m. This year, there won't be a third-game place. Here's what the tournament format looks like: The No. 8 seed faces the No. 7 seed for the first two quarterfinals on March 12. The No. 3 and 6 seeds and the No. 4 and 5 seeds, face each other for the other two quarterfinals on March 13. The four quarterfinal winners get re-seeded for the semifinals on March 15. The final Frozen Faceoff champion gets crowned the winner on March 16. What Will It Be Like to Attend the 2021 NCHC Tournament? The tournament which will take place in the Ralph Engelstad Arena at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks will allow up to 3,000 fans, about 25% of the arena's capacity. To follow COVID-19 and Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, fans must wear masks at all times and maintain social distancing procedures. To avoid fans and crowds from congregating in the arena and concourse area, the games are in a single-session format. Many of the pre-game tickets went on sale in late February 2021, and if the event doesn't sell out, single-game tickets go on sale March 8. You can order food and beverages — you'll just have to go straight to your seats to consume your order. Please don't congregate in the lobby, concourse, or common areas. If you're a lucky fan who gets to attend the 2021 NCHC Tournament, please follow the rules and policies set by the NCHC commission and the University of North Dakota so everyone can enjoy watching the tournament in a fun and safe manner. How Do I Get to the Ralph Engelstad Arena? You'll find the 2021 NCHC tournament at the Ralph Engelstad Arena located at One Ralph Engelstad Arena Drive at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. Whether you're driving on Interstate 29 or Interstate 2, you'll exit on Gateway Drive and then turn onto Ralph Engelstad Arena Drive. Once you park your car, you can enter the arena through the REA Entry with the Main, Northwest, and Southwest doors opening one hour before the start of the game. If you use a ride-share service like Lyft or Uber, the drop-off and pickup location is at the Southwest entrance. What Else Can I Do While Visiting Grand Forks? Bring out your inner hockey player and head over to the Town Square Ice Rink in Grand Forks to enjoy ice skating. The rink is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Other cultural and educational activities include visiting the North Dakota Museum of Art and the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences. Enjoy dining at the Toasted Frog in downtown Grand Forks, and stop by the Red Pepper for grinders and Mexican favorites. Stop by Johnny's Lounge and Casino to try your hand at gaming. Get Your Car Washed Before You Leave Town While you're in Grand Forks for the 2021 NCHC Tournament, stop by Rydell Car Wash to get your car sparkling clean. We use state-of-the-art technology that removes dirt and grime, especially with winter salt and dirt buildup. Our advanced car wash system makes it easy for you to get in and out and back to exploring Grand Forks in no time. Stop by 2600 South Washington St. or 1905 Gateway Drive to get your car shiny clean at Rydell Car Wash. And get in touch if you have any questions!

Whether you want to grab a bite to eat or simply enjoy an afternoon out, Larimore, North Dakota, has several family-friendly places for you to visit. Check out the following recreation areas, historical landmarks, and eateries around Larimore on your next family outing. more Larimore Dam Recreation Area Image via Unsplash by Chewy The Larimore Dam Recreation Area was built in the late 1970s and offers 72 acres of pool surface. Bring along the family for a fun day on the water. You can spread out a blanket on the swimming beach or push out a nonmotorized boat from the boat launch. Don't forget to bring your fishing gear! If you'd like to plan for a family picnic, just set up at one of the many picnic areas or reserve one of the two covered areas ahead of time. The recreation area also features several outdoor activities, such as horseshoe pits, a softball diamond, and paved and rustic hiking trails. You can enjoy an extended time at the Larimore Dam by camping in one of the 144 campsites, which feature electrical and water hookups. Restroom areas with showers and flushing toilets are also available for use. The Larimore Dam Recreation Area is located just 3 miles north of Larimore, so you can quickly travel from home to your family day trip or camping adventure. A day pass is $5, a yearly pass is $25, and a nightly camping pass is $25. Turtle River State Park For even more outdoor fun, head about 9 miles east of Larimore to Turtle River State Park. You can visit this state park any time of the year for a day trip or for an overnight adventure. During the day, check out the 12 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing, or find a large hill to go sledding. You can also head down to the banks of the Turtle River to fish for trout, hang out at the playground with your little ones, or have a fun picnic at one of the picnic shelters. If you want to get out on the river, you can rent a canoe and life jackets for a small fee. A day pass to the park is $7 per vehicle, and an annual pass is $35. If you plan to stay overnight, consider booking one of the 12 woodland cabins, which feature private showers and flush toilets. There are also more than 60 modern campsites that include electricity and water hookups and more than 20 primitive campsites you can reserve for your family's camping trip. Campsite fees range from $12-$17 for primitive sites and $25-$30 for modern sites. For another family adventure, travel an additional 23 miles east to check out Grand Forks, North Dakota. Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge Take a little trip about 13 miles west of Larimore to visit Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge. The wildlife refuge includes Little Goose Lake, so consider hiking over to the lake to try your hand at fishing and possibly spot more wildlife. Be sure to bring your camera to capture some stunning nature and wildlife photos, and enjoy the great outdoors with the little ones at Little Goose National Wildlife Refuge. Avalon Theater Originally built in 1925, the Avalon Theater is a performing arts venue and movie theater located in downtown Larimore. After a fire in 1938, the theater was remodeled and is one of the few theaters still standing that features art deco style. When you visit the theater, you'll notice geometric motifs throughout the venue, which are characteristic of the historic art deco style. The Avalon Theater was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1991. Take the whole family out to see a movie or a live show in the theater's nearly 400-seat auditorium. Call or stop by the Avalon to see what's running or when you can attend the next performance. Larimore City Hall If your family loves to see historical places, check out Larimore City Hall. The two-and-a-half-story brick building was originally built in 1890 and is considered the oldest surviving brick building in Larimore. The building was placed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1990. You can swing by this historic landmark located in the center of town. Larson's Drive Inn If you're looking for some delicious food to enjoy as a family, check out Larson's Drive Inn. This drive-in restaurant is located in downtown Larimore and has been serving locals since 1980. As with other traditional drive-ins, the restaurant serves you outdoors or in your vehicle. So drive up in the family car and get ready to chow down on your favorite American fast-food dishes. With specials like popcorn chicken baskets and chicken strip dinners, you're sure to find something for the whole family. Be sure to check the hours before visiting, since they may change throughout the year. Also note that the menu may vary from week to week, such as the malt or shake of the week, so take a look at the menu before ordering. DB's The Station Another family-friendly restaurant you should check out is DB's The Station, located in downtown Larimore. This local restaurant serves burgers, sandwiches, salads, wraps, pizzas, sides, drinks, and ice cream desserts. Order a classic hamburger or try something new, such as the Barn Burger, which features sliced jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, and a spicy/sweet mango habanero barbecue sauce. Upgrade your lunch or dinner with one of the many available sides, such as boneless chicken wings, chicken rings, chicken strips, sweet corn nuggets, beer batter mozzarella sticks, onion rings, Wisconsin cheese curds, or sweet potato, waffle, or french fries. You can also order a hamburger, chicken rings, or chicken strips kids meal for the little one. Don't forget to try an ice cream dessert, such as a malt, cone, or shake. DB's The Station is open Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. Contact Rydell Cars Now you know where to go around Larimore for a day or weekend away with the family! Did we miss one of your favorite local spots to hang out? We'd love to hear from you and add your suggestions to our list!

Freezing temperatures, snowy and rainy conditions, and dark nights can make it difficult for you to keep your vehicle clean in winter. However, cold weather can wreak havoc on your car's appearance and even cause damage to some of its components. Therefore, it's essential that you regularly wash your car in the winter months, even if you dread going outside when it's cold, wet, and dark. Check out this detailed guide to learn why you need to clean your vehicle in winter and how you can do it the right way. more Visit a Rydell Car Wash Chat With an Expert Why It's Important to Clean Your Car in Winter Image via Flickr by royal_broil It may seem counter-productive to wash your vehicle in winter because it will get dirty again the moment you hit the road. While this is true, it's still important to keep your car clean because it offers a number of practical benefits. The following are two good reasons why you should regularly wash your car in the cold months: Protect Your Car From Damage During winter, your vehicle will encounter things like grit, salt, and rotting leaves as it takes you from one place to another. These substances and debris can stick to your paint job and leave detrimental deposits behind. This may, in turn, lead to the onset of rust, which can eat away at your vehicle's exposed metalwork if left unattended. Salt and moisture are especially harmful to the undercarriage, where metal parts have less protection. If rust occurs there, it can cause all kinds of mechanical issues and significantly reduce the resale value of your car. Improve Safety Washing your vehicle in winter also helps reduce your risk of accidents. A windshield that's dirty, streaked, and covered with fallen leaves can impair your visibility while you're driving, especially when the sun is low. Sun glare is a more common problem in the winter months because the sun is close to the horizon during peak driving hours. As such, it's important to ensure that your windshield is clean and streak-free so that you can reduce glare. It's also recommended that you keep a pair of sunglasses in your car. How to Properly Wash Your Vehicle in Winter Image via Flickr by wuestenigel Due to the extremely cold temperatures and wet conditions, washing your vehicle in winter isn't as straightforward as it is in summer. However, you'll be able to give your car a proper cleaning by following these tips: Turn On the Heat Before you start washing your vehicle, turn the heat all the way up and switch on both the front and rear defrosters. By doing so, you can slow down the speed at which water freezes on your windows, weather seals, and other components. Avoid Scrubbing Instead of scrubbing the exterior of your vehicle, you should just spray water on it to rinse away salt, sand, and debris. Blast winter gunk and ice out of the wheels and wheel wells and thoroughly rinse the undercarriage. This can reduce vibrations and make your car ride smoother. Also, spray away snow and ice from the area between the hood and the windshield where the wiper blades rest. There's a vent in this area that allows air to enter the cabin. If ice and slush block this vent, your heater and defroster won't be able to work properly. It's essential to avoid using a wash brush to scrub the surface of your vehicle during winter, especially if ice has already formed on it. Scrubbing can leave scratches on your car's clearcoat. Spray Wiper Fluid After you've finished rinsing, get inside your car, close the door, and spray wiper fluid on your windshield. While the wipers are moving, feel free to use a generous amount of fluid. This will allow the fluid to soak into the wiper blade assembly and prevent ice from forming on the wiper blades and arm hinges. Additionally, doing this clears away water that can ice up the openings in the washer nozzle. As a result, your wipers and washer nozzle will be able to work properly to keep your windshield clean. Roll Down Your Windows By now, your vehicle should be properly warmed up and ready for this step. Roll each of the windows down about half an inch and open the sunroof the same amount. This can dramatically reduce the amount of ice that will form between the windows and their seals. As such, the windows will be able to operate smoothly without putting extra strain on the window regulator. Close the windows and sunroof after a few minutes or when you're done washing your car. Open the Fuel-Filler Door Ice can form around your vehicle's fuel-filler door and freeze it shut. To prevent this, open the fuel door and use a clean towel to wipe the area around it dry. Open the Doors Open all of your car's doors and its trunk or tailgate. Then, use a clean, dry towel to wipe the rubber weather seals on the inside edges of the doors and trunk and the ones lining the door openings. This is to ensure that ice won't form between the seals and the body of your car and cause the doors to get stuck. Additionally, it helps prevent damage to the weather seals, which is likely to happen when you try to forcefully open a frozen car door. Pull the Door Handles and Locks While the doors are open, pull each door handle several times so that ice won't build up within its mechanism. Just a few pulls should be enough to weaken the grip of any ice that's forming inside the handle. After you're done with the door handles, spray some lock de-icer into the keyholes to prevent frozen water from jamming them up. Visit the Rydell Car Wash It's essential to clean your vehicle properly in winter because failure to do so can lead to a wide array of problems. If you want to give your car a good cleaning or repair any problems, don't hesitate to stop by one of Rydell Cars' dealerships in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Are you looking for a smaller U.S. city to put down roots in? Perhaps you're tired of the big city life, stress, and all the traffic. Consider a small city like Thompson, North Dakota, which was recently named one of the best small U.S. cities. With a population of just under 1,200, Thompson is undeniably small. Located in the heart of the Red River Valley, Thompson Valley is just south of Grand Forks on I-29. If you're looking for a new city for you and your family to move to, keep Thompson on your mind. Here's a look at 12 reasons to move to Thompson, North Dakota. more 1. Good Schools Image via Flickr by Ross Griff If you have kids, schools will weigh heavily on where you end up. You want to live somewhere with good schools for your kids. Schools in Thompson consistently rank well, and Thompson High School has a 96% graduation rate, which is somewhat higher than the state median. 2. Low Crime Rates Small cities typically have lower crime rates, and Thompson is no exception. If you are looking for somewhere safe to raise your family, you'll take comfort in knowing that crime in Thompson is virtually nonexistent. 3. Healthier Living Believe it or not, Thompson is home to some of the best football and softball stadiums in North Dakota. That helps set Thompson apart from other similar smaller communities. On a typical Friday night, you'll find the stands packed with cheering fans. Thompson is also known for its programs that focus on mental and physical health, especially ones for the kids like Bio Girls, which is available to elementary-aged girls to help them build their own self-worth. Organizers use competitive physical activity and mentoring to help these young girls to develop self-worth. 4. Quality Healthcare You'll find that quality healthcare is nearby in Grand Forks, which is only a 20-minute drive away. Grand Forks is home to a state-of-the-art hospital and plenty of private medical providers. In 2019, Altru Hospital was ranked the number one hospital in North Dakota and the best hospital in the Red River Valley by U.S. News & World Report. The hospital also received high rankings for specialty areas like pulmonology and lung surgery, colon cancer surgery, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, hip replacement, heart failure, and knee replacements. 5. Tight-Knit Community If you're looking for a new home in a real community, Thompson is a close-knit city but is welcoming to new residents. There are always interesting and fun community events taking place that are great for families, such as summer theater, goat yoga, pancake breakfasts, and craft fairs. The big event is Thompson Days, which is a biannual celebration that includes activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy block parties, live music, inflatable games, and more You'll also find that many businesses here are family-owned, like Rydell Auto Group. Rydell Auto Group was initially founded as Rydell Chevrolet in the 1940s by Leonard Rydell. Thompson and other nearby small cities are home to numerous small businesses that you can help support rather than shopping at big box stores. 6. Affordability People are also drawn to Thompson for its affordability. Grand Forks can be much more expensive. For example, in 2017, the median price of homes in the Grand Forks metropolitan area was $219,900 whereas the median price in Thompson was $180,000. Most people who live in small cities like Thompson commute to Grand Forks, so you'll be in good company if you move here and drive into a larger city for work. Residents enjoy working elsewhere and then being able to enjoy their quiet community on the weekend or other days off. 7. Numerous Golf Courses Nearby If you or someone in your family is into golf, you can take advantage of several public courses available in the region. King's Walk Golf Course, Ray Richards Golf Course, and Lincoln Park Golf Course are in Grand Forks, while Valley Golf Course is in East Grand Forks. There are also other courses in Larimore, Crookston, Maryville, Manvel, and Hillsboro. 8. Plenty of Museums and Other Learning Opportunities If you are concerned about a lack of museums and other things to do in a small city like Thompson, you'll be delighted to know there are still plenty of educational and exciting things to see and do nearby. If you enjoy museums, you'll find several options nearby, including the Dakota Science Museum, the North Dakota Museum of Art, and the Fargo Air Museum. 9. Year-Round Outdoor Adventure Outdoor adventure is possible year-round in the Grand Forks area. Enjoy neighborhood parks, walking trails, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, and more. During the winter months, cross-country skiing and snowmobiles are very popular. 10. Wineries and Craft Beer Nearby If you enjoy wine and/or craft beer, the Grand Forks area offers some great options. The Grape Mill Vineyard and Winery is one of the top wine producers in the region. Popular craft breweries like Half Brothers Brewing Company and Rhombus Guys Brewing Company are located right downtown in Grand Forks and offer delicious locally produced beers and great eats. 11. Multiple Places of Worship If religion is an important part of your life, you don't have to sacrifice your faith to live in a small community. There are multiple places of worship in Grand Forks, including Lutheran, Baptist, Catholic, Episcopal, Methodist, and Presbyterian churches; a Jewish synagogue; a Jehovah's Witnesses hall; and more. 12. Local Farmers Markets Do you like purchasing your food from farmers markets whenever possible? You'll find no shortage of options in Grand Forks and Fargo. There are also smaller markets in other cities like Park River, Emerado, and Grafton. Contact Rydell Cars We've shared 12 of the top reasons to consider a move to Thompson, North Dakota. Which ones are most important to you? Did we miss any other reasons that would encourage you to move to Thompson? If so, contact us and let us know what we missed to add to our list!