Blog

Our Louisana summers are hot and humid, making a healthy AC essential to keep you cool. AC components wear out due to age, and some components can get damaged by hard objects thrown up from the surface. If you have an AC not working, your Jeep dealer will quickly fix it for you. We'd like to tell you a few signs you need to visit us for a repair. AC Not Working? Visit Your Jeep Dealer Musty, Dusty Smell Once the AC has chilled the air, it passes through the cabin air filter, which removes any remaining dust or pollen. The cold, clean air then blows through the vents to cool your cabin. If the AC blows cold air that smells dusty or musty, the cabin air filter is probably blocked. You might also notice that airflow is slower than it should be based on the AC speed setting. The filter is concertina-shaped, and dirt and other debris gather in the folds. Eventually, the filter is completely blocked, and as the cold air blows through it, it picks up the dusty smell from the trapped dirt. Pollen particles can also be pushed into the cabin, causing issues for allergy sufferers. We can quickly replace the dirty filter, and the cabin air will smell clean again. Stuck Compressor Clutch The compressor forces refrigerant and air through the AC system and switches on and off at set intervals as the warm, moist outside air turns into dry, cold air to give you that refreshing break from the heat you need. The compressor is powered by the crankshaft's movement, and its clutch connects to the AC pulley. Like all components, the clutch can wear out. If it fails and gets stuck, your AC will malfunction. A clutch that jams closed prevents the compressor from starting, and your AC won't work. If the clutch is jammed open, the compressor will continue to run. This produces noise, and it will wear out faster. We'll examine the clutch, and we can quickly replace it if required to fix this problem. Failed Blower Motor Once air has been chilled, it needs to blow into your cabin. The fan speed dial on your dash is controlled by a resistor, which sets the blower motor speed. Once the speed is set, it remains in that position until you change it. If you have little or no airflow through the vents despite the fan speed setting, your blower motor could have failed. The motor could burn out due to age, but it could also fail due to damaged wiring or a blown blower motor fuse. We'll examine the motor and repair or replace it depending on the situation. Contact our service department today at Acadiana DCJRF in Lafayette, LA.

If you're looking for an eco-friendly vehicle, you might wonder what Chrysler EV and Chrysler hybrid models you can choose from. Let's explore the brand's electrified options so you can find the right model. Chrysler EV Options While Chrysler hasn't released any fully electric vehicles yet, the automaker has recently confirmed that a Pacifica EV is in the making. Reportedly, the brand's upcoming EV will be based on Chrysler's Halcyon concept and will likely share the modular STLA Large platform with its gas-powered and hybrid siblings. The STLA-based Halcyon concept includes advanced onboard and cloud technologies, providing next-level entertainment, connectivity, and security. Depending on how much it retains from the Halcyon, the Pacifica EV could also integrate the STLA AutoDrive Level 4 autonomy for seamless hands-free driving under certain conditions. more Chrysler Hybrid Options 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid America's first plug-in minivan, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, is a smart and efficient vehicle perfect for short and long trips alike. It is available in five trim levels, all powered by a 3.6L V6 engine mated to an electric motor for powerful performance and exceptional fuel economy ratings of 82 MPGe combined. With a total range of 520 miles and 32 miles of all-electric range, you can go far while saving at the pump. Luxury Interior The family-friendly interior is built for comfort and comes with standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel for added convenience in adverse weather. A 2/2/3 interior configuration with second-row captain's chairs ensures plenty of lounge room for rear passengers. Stow 'n Go third-row seating also comes standard, so you can enjoy a huge cargo volume when the third row is not in use. Next-Level Technology Chrysler equips the 2024 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid with a wealth of innovative technologies, including the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system. A 10.1-inch center touchscreen offers intuitive access to music streaming apps, radio channels, connectivity, and vehicle functions. Upgrades include the Uconnect Theater Family Group with Amazon Fire TV, an option available on all but the base trim. The package includes an interior camera for the second and third rows, so you can keep an eye on your passengers or cargo. 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid The new 2025 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid boasts the same performance as the 2024 model, but its three trim levels offer more standard features than the 2024 lineup. Highlights include an auto-dimming rearview mirror for improved safety during night travels and a universal garage door opener. Premium carpets are also available across all trims, giving a luxe feel to the cabin. Ready to discover more about Chrysler's hybrid and EV lineups? Contact us at Acadiana Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat in Lafayette, LA and we will answer any questions you might have.

Ram vehicles are synonymous with power, versatility, and reliability. However, there's always room to enhance your driving experience with Ram accessories. Whether you want to improve handling and efficiency or boost horsepower, there's an accessory to help you get the most out of your truck. Performance Enhancement with Ram Accessories 1. Off-Road 5-Inch LED Light Kit This high-quality light kit offers an incredibly bright, fully illuminating light source for safer off-roading. It is pressure washer-capable and has been tested for vibration, shock, and electromagnetic compatibility(EMC). Its cast aluminum housing ensures proper heat dissipation and long-term durability. more 2. Bedliner The bedliner is manufactured using a high-strength polyethylene blend for extended durability. It features skid-resistant construction to keep cargo in place. It is available for conventional beds and vehicles with the RamBox Cargo Management System. 3. Multi-Function Tailgate Bed Step This retractable step makes it easier to climb into the truck bed. A spring-loaded cam allows the step to extend easily when you step down on it and retracts with a simple push to stow out of the way. Bed steps are made of high-strength aluminum with an e-coat finish to enhance protection against rust and corrosion. They mount to the vehicle frame for secure attachment with no-drill installation and feature a load rate of up to 350 lb. 4. High-Performance Cold Air Intake High-performance cold air intakes are among the most popular and efficient upgrades for Ram trucks. They maximize the amount of cold air that enters the engine, resulting in quicker throttle response. More cold air means more oxygen, which helps improve combustion efficiency. 5. Towing Accessories a. Trailer-Tow Mirrors These dual-function, aerodynamic mirrors are installed easily and help enhance rear visibility when towing trailers and campers. A single mirror is paired with a minor broad-view mirror that operates vertically when trailering and flips horizontally for daily driving convenience. b. Trailer Camera Kit This upgrade also improves your rearview visibility, helping you maneuver around obstacles with your trailer. It is designed to work with the Trailer Camera Wiring Prep Kit, which includes a wired camera with housing, a trailer wiring harness, a 12-way plug, and a 12-way park connector. c. Hitch Receiver You can have your truck equipped with the Class IV Hitch Receiver, which has a 12,750-pound towing capacity and a 1,275-lb tongue weight capacity. No rear bumper or fascia trimming or cutting will be needed during installation. Let's take your driving experience to the next level together. Visit us at Acadiana Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat in Lafayette, LA, today. We offer a vast range of products and services to help you get the most out of your Ram. Our knowledgeable and friendly team will gladly help you find the best upgrades for your needs.

Unlike maintenance tasks like fluid checks or tire rotations, diagnostic testing isn't a regular part of maintenance. It's a highly specialized tool that speeds up diagnosis, allowing repairs to be performed faster. As your RAM dealer, we want to tell you more about how testing works, when you may need it, and some of the issues it can identify. From Your RAM Dealer: The Role of Diagnostic Testing in Maintenance Your RAM Computer Your RAM has a computer that automates many processes to make driving safer and more efficient and give you more time to enjoy the experience. A multitude of sensors connect to the computer, and each sensor is attached to an important component. These sensors carry out orders from the computer, provide information to it, and report on the health and condition of their connected component. more If a sensor detects a problem with its connected component, it informs the computer. The computer logs this information and illuminates the relevant warning light on your dash. Sometimes, the warning light points to a specific system, for example, an illuminated tire pressure monitoring system light means something is with your tire pressure. Other times, the specific issue is more obscure, like an illuminated check engine light. How Testing Works Testing is used to identify the reason behind a warning light. Our technicians will connect a portable scanner, called an OBD II, to your RAM's computer port. This device scans the computer for error codes and lists any it finds. We then compare these codes to the list of possible RAM error codes to identify the affected system so we can fix it. Before vehicle computers and sensors, mechanics could spend countless hours checking and testing components and systems. While testing doesn't always identify the exact issue, it's invaluable in directing our technicians to the correct system. This saves time, which also means cheaper and faster repairs. Let's take at some of the issues it can identify. Electrical Problems Electrical system problems, like a worn alternator, a failing battery, or electrical shorts, can all affect vehicle performance. These issues will grow worse over time and could result in a dead battery. They can also falsely be identified as issues due to malfunctioning sensors. Exhaust Problems A blocked catalytic converter can force engine gases back into the engine. The gases increase pressure in the engine and can cause it to shut down. Holes in the exhaust pipe can cause toxic gases to enter your cabin or reduce engine power. Engine Problems Worn ignition coils, damaged spark plugs, and blocked fuel injectors are just a few of the issues that can be identified by testing. Testing can also be performed to give you peace of mind that your engine is in great shape. Contact us at Acadiana DCJRF in Lafayette, LA, to book your test today.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Your Dodge is fun to drive, technologically advanced, and ultra-reliable. Regular Dodge maintenance is the key to protecting your vehicle and enjoying your driving experience for many years to come. We want to tell you about some of the maintenance we provide. Types of Dodge Maintenance Available at Your Dodge Dealer Cooling System Repair Your Dodge's cooling system is highly efficient and ensures your engine always operates at its most efficient temperature. The system will speed up or slow down to maintain the engine at a temperature between 185 F and 230 F, depending on the performance requirements of your model. more Cooling system issues can develop over time, ranging from leaks in the cooling system to radiator damage. Any issue with the cooling system is serious as it increases the chance of your engine overheating. Overheating can damage sensitive components like the head gasket or engine seals and cause permanent damage. If your engine temperature rises for no apparent reason, our technicians will find and repair the problem. Transmission Leak Repair The transmission works with your engine to drive the wheels. It takes the engine's energy and converts it, via a series of gears, into controlled energy to move your wheels are the desired speed. Transmission fluid provides the hydraulic power essential for moving your gears. The casing is robust, but seals and gaskets can wear out as time passes, and the transmission can leak. You might see a leak, as it appears as a puddle of red fluid underneath your Dodge. If you don't see a leak, you'll feel its effects as the transmission will become noisy and less responsive. You could hear whining, grinding, or buzzing noises, and eventually, the transmission will fail. Fortunately, our expert technicians are here to prevent that. We'll trace and seal the leak, then refill the fluid, so your transmission will work efficiently again. Engine Mount Replacement Your engine contains numerous components that move at high speed to produce the energy that moves your Dodge. These movements cause vibrations and would damage the engine if it's not correctly secured. In addition, driving produces vibrations that could damage the engine. The engine mounts protect against any damage by securely fixing the engine in place and absorbing vibrations. The mounts are made from reinforced rubber and are liquid-filled to dissipate vibrations. In time, the rubber can crack and the liquid will leak out. If this happens, you'll hear jarring thuds as you drive as the engine moves slightly. The engine can't tear loose from the mounts, but it will become damaged if the vibrations don't stop. We'll remove the damaged mounts and replace them to protect your engine. Book your next service today. Contact our service department at Acadiana DCJRF in Lafayette, LA.

The aftermath of a car accident can be a whirlwind of emotions and logistical hurdles. Between the initial shock, dealing with insurance companies, managing repairs, and potentially recovering from injuries, it's easy to let the task of choosing a collision center fall by the wayside. But this decision can have a significant impact on the safety, performance, longevity, and even the value of your vehicle. Here's why opting for a reputable collision center is crucial after an accident: 1. Ensuring Your Safety is Paramount: Collision repair goes far beyond making your car look shiny and new again. A reputable collision center employs certified technicians who are trained in the latest repair methods and utilize high-quality parts. This ensures your car meets the strictest safety standards, ultimately protecting you and your passengers on the road. They go beyond cosmetic fixes and meticulously restore the vehicle's structural integrity, which is crucial for withstanding future impacts and maintaining the car's ability to absorb crash energy. Additionally, they ensure proper alignment, steering, and suspension function, all vital for safe driving. Don't settle for a quick fix that prioritizes aesthetics over safety. You deserve a car that functions flawlessly and protects you in the event of another collision. more 2. Protecting Your Investment: Value and Performance: Accidents can cause hidden damage that, if not addressed correctly by a skilled technician, can lead to long-term problems and decreased performance. A good collision center utilizes advanced diagnostic tools to identify all the damage, both visible and concealed. This ensures a complete and lasting repair that doesn't leave you with lingering issues down the road. They also use parts that match the original specifications of your car, maintaining its performance and resale value. Substandard repairs, often prioritizing speed and cutting corners, can lead to mismatched paint that peels prematurely, electrical issues due to faulty wiring, and mechanical problems stemming from improperly replaced parts. These issues not only compromise safety but also ultimately cost you more money in the long run, as you'll likely need to pay for additional repairs to rectify the initial shoddy work. 3. A Smoother Insurance Process: Less Hassle, More Time for You: Reputable collision centers have extensive experience working with insurance companies. They can handle the paperwork and communication on your behalf, saving you time, stress, and frustration. They understand industry standards and ensure repairs are covered under your insurance policy, advocating for you if necessary. Dealing with an unfamiliar repair shop can lead to delays and disagreements with your insurance provider. They may question the quality or necessity of certain repairs, further extending the repair process and causing unnecessary headaches. A reputable collision center acts as a trusted intermediary, ensuring a smoother and more efficient insurance claim process. 4. Peace of Mind and Long-Term Security: Warranties and Customer Service: A good collision center offers warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind knowing the repairs are guaranteed to last. They prioritize customer satisfaction and stand behind the quality of their services. This means you can rest assured that any issues arising from the repairs themselves will be addressed promptly and professionally. Choosing an unknown shop can leave you questioning the quality of work and with no recourse if issues arise later. Did they use genuine parts? Will the repairs hold up over time? Without a warranty, you're left to shoulder the burden of any problems that may surface. Finding the Right Collision Partner: Do Your Research Beforehand Don't wait until after an accident to research collision repair centers. Here are some tips to help you find a reputable shop you can trust: Get recommendations: Ask friends, family, or your mechanic for recommendations on collision centers they've had positive experiences with. Check online reviews: Look for centers with positive customer reviews and high ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for certifications: Ensure the center has certifications from reputable organizations like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR). These certifications demonstrate the shop's commitment to quality and adherence to industry standards. Ask about warranties: Inquire about the warranty offered on repairs. A good warranty should cover both parts and labor for a set period of time. Get multiple estimates: Compare prices and services offered by different collision centers. However, don't be solely swayed by the cheapest option. Remember, quality repairs often come at a fair price. By prioritizing quality and choosing a reputable collision center after an accident, you're investing in the safety, performance, and longevity of your car. You'll also save yourself time, stress, and potentially money in the long run. Remember, your car is an investment, and proper repairs are an investment in your safety. Visit our Collision Center for any of your repair needs.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Transmissions have an undeserved reputation for being expensive to repair. Some drivers will ignore strange behavior from the transmission rather than take it in to get it checked. Most transmission problems are quick and inexpensive to repair, and your Dodge dealer can fix any possible issue. These are some signs you need to visit us for a transmission service. Signs You Need a Transmission Service at Your Dodge Dealer Gears Won't Shift It's a scary feeling if you try to shift gears and nothing happens. Your transmission won't work, and without the transmission, your Dodge isn't going anywhere. This problem usually develops over time, and you'll notice a delay in shifting that gradually gets longer. You might also hear strange noises from the transmission. more Low transmission fluid is the most common cause of this problem. Transmission fluid provides the essential hydraulic power that allows gears to shift. A transmission leak will make gear shifting slower and noisy, and will also cause friction damage to the gear teeth. Other possible causes include a broken shift cable, a damaged clutch linkage, or a transmission computer error. We'll investigate and fix the cause of the problem. Clunking or Thudding Odd noises like clunking or thudding as you drive can make you think something is loose and about to fall off. If the noise seems to come from directly below you, one of both transmission mounts could be damaged. The two transmission mounts connect your transmission to the frame. They're made from rubber and liquid-filled to absorb and dissipate vibrations as you drive. The rubber mounts can lose flexibility over time, and this can cause cracks. The liquid inside the mounts will leak, and the transmission will move slightly up and down as you drive. It can't tear free from the frame, but it will sustain impact damage if the problem isn't fixed. We'll check and replace your transmission mounts if necessary to fix this problem. Slipping Gears This is another scary situation, as your gears may suddenly shift to their previous position without warning. You'll hear a straining sound from the engine and harsh metallic sounds like grinding as the transmission is forced into the new gear. This situation needs to be fixed ASAP, as it makes driving dangerous and will very quickly cause extensive transmission damage. Fortunately, one of the main causes of this problem is a lack of transmission fluid. Insufficient fluid prevents the transmission from shifting the gears effectively. Worn gear teeth can also cause this problem as they prevent the transmission from staying in the damaged gear. Our technicians can replace damaged gears or refill the fluid to solve this problem. Transmission issues will only worsen if they're not fixed. Contact us today at Acadiana CDJRF in Lafayette, LA.

At Acadiana Chrysler Dodge Jeep® RAM, we understand that you lead a busy life. Your time is valuable, which is why our Lafayette, LA dealership offers express lane service. Express lane service allows you to get maintenance and repair work done quickly without an appointment. Our express lane service center features early morning and late-night hours five days a week to help meet all of your service needs. Here are just a few of the services we offer at our express lane service center. Parts Replacements If you need to pop in for a quick parts replacement, our express lane service center has your back. Our expert mechanics can replace your car’s exterior bulbs, battery, wiper blades, or air filter. You will be back on the road in no time at all when you visit our Lafayette, LA dealership. Inspections If you’re planning to hit the road for a weekend getaway or family vacation, bring your Dodge car into our express lane service center for a thorough inspection. Our service team can inspect your brakes, test your car battery, check your fluid levels, and perform a complete multi-point checkup. Tires Tire health is key when it comes to the safety and reliability of your car. You can bring your vehicle into our express lane service center for a tire rotation, tread wear inspection, and a pressure check. These services will help you avoid experiencing a flat tire or tire blowout on the road. Visit Our Express Lane Service Center Today Our express lane service center can handle your routine car maintenance needs, such as regular oil/filter changes and chassis lube work. When you need quick and reliable service from a team you can trust, visit Acadiana Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Lafayette, LA. Head over to our website to learn more about our Dodge dealership!

Scheduling regular tire service is crucial for prolonging the life of your vehicle’s tires. If you’re looking for a Dodge service center in Lafayette, LA, contact Acadiana Dodge Chrysler Jeep® RAM. We'll make sure to give your tires the care they deserve. Dodge Tire Service Basics There are many maintenance tasks and services that are designed to keep your car’s tires in good working order. Here are just a few of our tire services that you can take advantage of: Tire rotations. Rotating your tires consistently helps ensure that there is equal tread wear on all four of your tires. To get the most out of your tires, we recommend having them rotated every 7,000 miles or twice a year for the best results. Wheel alignments. Another important type of tire service is a wheel alignment. Your car’s wheels only need to be aligned when new tires are installed or when your wheel alignment feels off. Wheel alignments also help to ensure even tread wear. Inspections. Before you hit the road for your next trip or vacation, we recommend bringing in your car for a complete tire inspection. Our Dodge service team can thoroughly inspect and repair any issues your tires may have. We can also check your tire pressure so you can avoid getting a flat tire during your travels. Tire replacements. When you need new tires, come into our Dodge service center and talk with a member of our knowledgeable team. We can help you pick out the perfect set of tires based on your budget and driving needs. Once they arrive, our team can install them on-site as well. Whether you need a simple inspection or a new set of tires, our Dodge service specialists are here to help. Contact our Dodge dealers to learn more about the services that we offer. Check out our website to set up your next Dodge service appointment today!

Whether you need new Dodge parts for your Dodge Grand Caravan or you're searching for something extra to add to your vehicle, you can find what you need at our Dodge dealership. We have an extensive selection of Dodge parts and accessories and knowledgeable dealers to answer your questions. Why Buy Genuine Mopar® Parts? When you need new Dodge parts, we recommend using Mopar® parts. These parts are the only parts designed, engineered, and tested exclusively for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, and RAM vehicles. All Mopar® parts have been engineered to exceed normal wear and tear. You can trust that they will be identical to your original parts, ensuring that your vehicle continues to function to the highest standard. Our Dodge Accessories Along with Dodge parts, we also have an extensive inventory of accessories for your Dodge Grand Caravan. Because this Dodge model offers ample cargo space, you may need some unique storage solutions. If you like to get away on weekend adventures, there are numerous cargo accessories designed to store your gear, including bike carriers, water sports carriers, canoe carriers, and roof racks. There are also solutions to help you maximize your cargo space with cargo boxes, rooftop cargo bags, and cargo baskets. There are also many accessories to meet your towing needs. Hitch receivers, ball mount adapters, and trailer tow wiring harnesses are just a few of the towing accessories available. To purchase Dodge parts or accessories, please visit our website, give our friendly parts specialists a call, or visit us in person at our Dodge dealership in Lafayette, LA. We will help you find the exact part you need and our expert Dodge service experts will ensure that it is installed quickly and correctly. We look forward to helping you soon!