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Rebuild Your Credit with a Car Loan

A man is sitting with his arms crossed in front of paperwork.

Bad credit is something that can happen to good people. It can happen to anyone for any number of reasons. But there is hope. Here is how to improve your credit with a bad credit car loan from a bad credit car dealership like Dan Cummins of Georgetown. While it may sound counterintuitive, getting a car loan with bad credit is one of the best things you can do to rebuild your credit rating. Think about it, you get a new or used car, and you get to improve your credit, making it easier to lease a new apartment, refinance your home, or extend the limits on your credit cards. It may sound like magic, but it truly is not. This comes down to how finances work, showing the world that you are a good credit risk. When you stop by Dan Cummins of Georgetown, our finance team will be happy to go over your various lease and loan options on the next vehicle you buy from us. We are conveniently located and waiting to show you that bad credit can’t keep you from buying your next car.

How Did We Get Here?

For those who have bad credit, this is probably the first question you ask yourself. There are a number of reasons that can lead you to having a bad credit rating. One of the most common is unpaid medical expenses. Too many of us get sick from illnesses, and our insurance will not cover all of the treatment. If you aren’t able to make timely payments of co-pays and deductibles, you could find yourself with open bills that lead to a drop in your credit scores. Similarly, if you fall behind on rent or mortgage payments, the landlord or bank will take steps to institute eviction or foreclosure proceedings. These, too, can damage your credit. Other things like open lawsuits, unpaid judgments to creditors, and large unpaid balances on credit cards can also leave us with bad credit. Filing for bankruptcy can wipe out most debt, but doing so will cost you up to 200 points on your credit score. It may also lead many credit card companies to close your accounts.

Why Did This Happen?

As you can see by what was illustrated above, there are a number of different things that can happen in your life that can leave you with bad credit. Let’s take a step back and explore the credit rating process. There are three main personal credit rating agencies in the United States: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This is different from corporate credit rating agencies like Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s. These agencies collect information on adults across the country that is then used by possible lenders, employers, and landlords to determine the creditworthiness of each person. While each of the three agencies comes up with its own credit score, these tend to be within a few points of each other for each individual being rated. For example, Experian uses a scale from 250 to 900 points. Any Experian score below 580 is considered poor, while scores over 670 are good, ranging to exceptional for scores over 800. Your score is not static and will go up and down as you make payments, miss payments, and run up balances on your credit cards. A man is hitting his forehead after looking at his credit score.

Is Bad Credit the End of the Story?

Even if you have a bad credit score, you can still get a loan. All it means is that you may not have as many lenders to choose from, and those that will lend you money may ask you to pay higher interest rates. For example, Experian reported that average interest rates for borrowers with scores between 501 and 600 points was 11.33% on a new car and 17.78% on a used one during the second quarter of 2020. In other words, having bad credit does not end your chances of getting a loan; it only means you may need to pay a little more back on it over time. If you are concerned about your credit rating, there are ways to get a credit report on yourself for free. Each of the different agencies provides ways to get a free credit report, and many credit cards now offer a monthly free credit score as one of their benefits to cardholders. So, when you go into a dealership, you won’t be surprised when they pull a credit report on you. Knowing in advance will help prepare you so you will be in a better position to negotiate a good deal on your next vehicle.

How Does a Car Loan Help Your Credit Rating?

You would think that adding debt would hurt your credit, but this is actually not true. It is the not the amount of debt that you have that hurts your credit. Bad credit is created by failing to pay the current portion of your debt on time. When you get a loan on your next car, you will have a set amount that you need to pay each month. Usually, you can do this by paying your loan holder online. Each time you make a timely monthly payment, you demonstrate to the three credit rating agencies that you are a good risk. As a result, they will often raise your credit rating when you consistently make on-time payments. You should always keep in mind that payment history counts for 35% of your credit score, so missing a payment can have a huge impact on your credit. Furthermore, as your credit score goes up, you will notice that more and more banks and credit card companies are making offers. You will also find it easier to get loans with good interest rates. So, you want to make sure you stay on top of your payments. One interesting side of credit scores is that you can actually get penalized for not having enough debt sources. This is referred to as having a thin portfolio. For example, if you only have one credit card, no car loan, and no other loans or leases, the credit rating agencies may actually take points off from your credit score for not having enough credit sources. This is another way that a car loan is beneficial, as it will add another lender to your portfolio, signaling to other lenders that there are many different sources looking to lend you financing, whether for a car or just a general credit card. A person is holding their hand out of a car window giving a thumbs up after leaving a bad credit car dealership.

Some Tips for Getting Your Car Loan

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are looking for a car loan from our dealership. First, you check your credit and pay down as much debt as you can, focusing first on amounts that are past due. This will have the effect of giving your credit score a little boost. It can even allow you to get a better deal, such as a lower interest rate, which will put more money in your pocket in the long run. Second, do a rough calculation of your monthly budget. Start with your take-home pay and then subtract your usual bills like rent or mortgage, gas, utilities, and food. The remainder should reflect how much you can afford to reasonably spend each month on your car loan payment. Third, check to see if you have some savings in the bank that you can use as a down payment. This will reduce the amount you need to finance for your car purchase, which will reduce your monthly payments. Finally, contact our finance department for a pre-approval on a car loan. Our friendly staff will be more than happy to work with you, so you have something lined up before you stop in for a visit.

Don’t Let Bad Credit Stand in the Way of Your Next Car

We understand that you may have had some problems in the past. This is why at Dan Cummins of Georgetown, we don’t let bad credit stand in the way of getting you a lease or loan on your next new or used vehicle. Our finance team is standing by, ready to help you get your next car loan with competitive terms that fit into your budget. In doing so, we will help you rebuild your credit so that you will only see your credit score going up while you pay off your car loan. This is what we call a win-win situation for you.
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A silver 2025 Ram 1500 RHO parked in a dusty dirt area.

How the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO Plans to Change the Off-Road Game

In late April 2024, Ram gave everyone in Northern Kentucky and the Greater Cincinnati Area yet another reason to visit a Ram dealer near Independence. In their announcement, Ram revealed plans for the all-new 2025 Ram 1500 RHO, the brand's replacement for the long-gone Ram 1500 TRX. For Independence drivers, this means more freedom to explore than ever before. Said to be “The Strongest Ram 1500 Ever,” the RHO’s claim to fame is that it provides more horsepower for your dollar compared to other premium off-road-oriented full-size pickup trucks. However, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is more than just higher horsepower and torque figures—impressive though those numbers may be. Here’s what we know about the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO so far and why we think it will be an excellent addition to the streets (and trails) of Northern Kentucky. Performance and Capability Ram has been very excited about sharing the power and performance details of the 1500 RHO, and for a good reason, as these numbers are awfully impressive. Stellantis has gotten a lot of attention in the past two years for their Hurricane Twin-Turbo engines, which currently include Standard Output and High Output versions. This 3.0L inline-six powerhouse replaces the beloved 6.2L Hellcat engine in many Stellantis models, including the Ram 1500, Jeep Wagoneer, and the upcoming Dodge Charger. The Hurricane High Output Straight-Six Turbo engine under the hood of the Ram 1500 RHO will provide 540 hp and 521 lb-ft of torque. Not only is this an improvement in power, but Ram also states that fuel economy and emissions will be notably different as well—in a positive way. The RHO’s powertrain is lighter, more efficient, and offers a more nimble driving feel. That being said, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO is still a highly capable truck. The maximum towing capacity is 8,380 lbs, and the payload maximum is 1,520 lbs. And don’t forget that this is an off-roading truck, so it has a boosted 11.8-inch ground clearance, thanks to a two-inch height increase over the other trims in its lineup. Also boasting 35-inch tires, the Ram 1500 RHO is suited for fording water up to 32 inches without issue. A range of selectable drive modes allows drivers to tailor their experience behind the wheel to what’s happening beneath them. These modes include Auto, Tow, Mud/Sand, Rock, Snow, Sport, Baja, Custom, and Valet. There are also some handy upgrades, such as Launch Control and engagement switches for the BorgWarner 48-13 full-time active transfer case. Whether you want to go very fast or travel in very low gear, the Ram 1500 RHO is ready to go. What About the Ride? For many drivers, the ride refers to two things: the way the vehicle handles and how nice that experience is from the driver's seat. The two definitions are very much related, and the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO has given great consideration to both. As an off-road-ready truck, the Ram 1500 RHO includes an independent front suspension system made with high-strength aluminum front upper and lower control arms; the size, travel rate, and materials of this system provide this off-road truck with some of the most articulate suspension performance in the Ram lineup. Inside the cabin, your comfort begins with a well-designed interior. Ram decided to give the 1500 RHO equal doses of practicality and luxury—so, to offset the mud-hungry attitude of the exterior, the interior is clad in Natural Plus leather and suede seating. Proving their luxury further, the front and rear bucket seats are heated and ventilated, and the front seats include massage and memory settings. A performance floor shifter wrapped in leather and aluminum paddle shifters can be accessed both above and below the steering wheel, and it leaves the driver feeling both in charge and swaddled in luxury. Then there are the screens. The highlight of the 2025 Ram 1500 lineup is a cutting-edge “cockpit” that offers over fifty inches of digital display screens; this includes a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen on the RHO. As the centerpiece of the cabin, this screen can be configured to provide all of the media, connectivity, and setting shortcuts needed, and its Uconnect 5 architecture adds speed and ease of use. The Ram 1500 RHO's front-seat passenger receives their own class-exclusive 10.25-inch touchscreen, which allows them to manage navigation and entertainment from the co-pilot seat, along with managing exterior camera views of the vehicle. They can also connect their own devices via an HDMI cord, allowing the passenger screen to mirror that of their device. The driver receives a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that can be configured to display over two dozen different vehicle menus, from drowsy driver recognition to a digital tachometer. Many of these features can be shown on the up to 10.0-inch full-color head-up display. Essentially, the Ram 1500 RHO does its best to ensure drivers are fully informed at every moment. In Terms of Technology In the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO press release, Ram acknowledges that this was “designed to be the most technologically advanced pickup ever.” While we’re still waiting for all of the details to be released, it does seem that the new Ram 1500 RHO has an incredible array of comfort, convenience, and connectivity features. In addition to the information and infotainment screens, the Ram 1500 RHO includes class-exclusive dual device wireless charging capability, along with USB connection points that have been clearly shaped for ease of use. Another class-exclusive feature is the 900-watt premium Harman Kardon audio system, which allows you to experience your favorite tunes through 19 speakers and a ten-inch subwoofer. The 2025 Ram 1500 RHO will include over a hundred standard and available safety, security, and driver assistance features. While the full list has not been published, Ram has confirmed that Evasive Steering Assist (which helps drivers avoid forward-moving collisions), Intersection Collision Assist System, Drowsy Driver Detection, and Traffic Sign Recognition are present. Drivers will also have the opportunity to try out Ram’s hands-free driving technology, which provides automated driving capability on pre-mapped highways (though trail-friendly navigation technology is starting to improve in our part of the world, too). In addition to the drive modes, Launch Control, and transfer case switches, a multifunction switch bank and available Trailer Reverse Steer Controls are also easily accessed from the driver’s seat. Between the cockpit and the technology offered, RHO drivers may be about to experience Northern Kentucky in a whole new way. More to Come… As we get closer to the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO’s release date, we expect to learn even more about what this multi-functional, high-powered, and highly-anticipated vehicle can do. In the meantime, early reports from experts and sources indicate this pickup truck will be an off-roading legend. Still, it would be a shame not to put horsepower figures like these to work within city limits—perhaps even at a local track or drag strip! As we see more off-road-ready trucks hit the market, we also see an increase in happy off-road drivers. Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or are new to dipping your tires in the mud, the 2025 Ram 1500 RHO promises to be a next-level all-terrain experience for us all.

Rear view of a silver 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon driving in the desert.

Why Jeep Vehicles and Kentucky Drivers Are the Perfect Match

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Jeep brand? For many drivers, it's images of bulky, square-shaped vehicles climbing rocky trails deep in the wilderness somewhere. Or maybe you've always thought of the Jeep as a warm-weather cruising vehicle, and your mind wanders to a roofless, doorless Jeep blasting through the desert or urban landscape. Ultimately, these images celebrate the ruggedness of the Jeep brand, but really, a Jeep can be so much more. When you visit a Jeep dealer near Covington, you may be shocked at the variety of vehicles you see. Some Jeeps are all-terrain baja beasts, for sure, but some are well-mannered luxurious vehicles that can help turn long commutes into enjoyable voyages. Some have impressive fuel economy, while others are electrified. It's not all bash plates and departure angles. In fact, most of the Jeep lineup does not have removable doors. So why do we say that Jeeps and Kentucky are a "match made in heaven?" It's because there are so many options to choose from. Whether you spend most of your time on Route 71 or have a solid working knowledge of all the trails surrounding the Covington area, there's a Jeep that offers the exact level of stability and excitement you're looking for. Here are some of our Jeep suggestions for the many driving personalities of the Bluegrass State. On the City Streets The Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee were two of the most popular models in the early days of the SUV boom. Once rugged vehicles that lacked most creature comforts, the Grand Cherokee and Cherokee models today are very people-friendly. However, a lot has changed since the 1990s. Sadly, the Cherokee left the Jeep lineup, though the Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee 4xe have stepped up to fill the hole that its departure left in the hearts of drivers. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. "Grand" can mean both "elegant" and "large," and the 2024 Grand Cherokee identifies with both of those terms. Passengers have loads of hip and shoulder room in the front and rear of the Grand Cherokee, while the maximum amount of cargo for the Grand Cherokee is 70.8. The 2024 Grand Cherokee is offered as both a 4x2 and 4x4, with the further option of two or three rows of seating for all but one of the nine available trims. Also available is the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines a 2.0L gas-powered engine with an electric motor system. Drivers can select between all-gas, all-electric, or hybrid power consumption, giving you full control of fuel economy and battery usage. All told, the Grand Cherokee 4xe has an average fuel consumption of 56 MPGe, which may sound very attractive to those who have spent far more time than they wanted sitting in traffic. In the Country We also happen to live in a beautiful part of the country. From the rolling grassy hillsides of farm country to the caves and mountains in the southern part of the state, Kentucky is a glorious sight to behold from the road. Perhaps you're the type of driver who doesn't necessarily need a vehicle that can ford a river, but maybe one that can take the family down to do a little camping now and then. Consider the seven to eight-seat Jeep Wagoneer family, which includes the Wagoneer, the Wagoneer L, the Grand Wagoneer, the Grand Wagoneer L, and the Wagoneer S. The L designation refers to a longer wheelbase—an additional 7 inches for the wheelbase and 12 inches of overall length for each. The S refers to the upcoming electrified Wagoneer, which shares the adventurous spirit and generous size of its gasoline-powered siblings while being 100% electric-powered. Equipped with a fun 420 hp 3.0L V6 engine, the 2024 Wagoneer is offered in both 4x2 and 4x4 configurations, though the top Series III trim is offered in 4x4 only. While the Wagoneer is equipped with two available 4x4 systems and an available Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, these features add stability on the pavement as well as dirt roads. Those looking for even more of everything might select the Grand Wagoneer instead. With its 510-hp Hurricane twin-turbo engine, it is capable of a 5.9 second 0-60 mile per hour acceleration as well as towing loads up to 9,800 lbs. If the rolling grassy hillsides are your home and not necessarily your vacation destination, consider the Jeep Gladiator. It's not just an off-road capable pickup truck—it's an off-road vehicle with a pickup bed. From running fences in the mud and rain to running bags of feed and equipment back and forth, the Gladiator handles mud, snow, sludge, rocky terrain, and pavement with no problem. Furthermore, 2024 Gladiator models can handle payloads up to 1,725 lbs or tow up to 7,700 lbs, making them pretty capable partners. And yes, you can take the roof and doors off for a little extra fun. Where the Pavement Ends It's actually possible to select a Trail Rated model in every Jeep vehicle. Many drivers don't know that the Compass Trailhawk is an actual rock star, with Selec-Terrain drive modes, available Active Drive Low 4x4 system for ultimate articulation, and high air intakes so you can cross more water than the average compact SUV. Is the Compass factory ready for major exploration of uncharted territory? No, but with the Trailhawk's Trail Rated badge, Jeep happily endorses some beginner trails and unimproved roads. But of course, the Jeep Wrangler gets the most credit as an off-roading vehicle, and for good reason. There are 8 different Wrangler trims. Many of these trims are offered in two or four-door configurations. Drivers can customize their Wranglers with fixed or removable hard or soft tops. Multiple 4x4 systems are available, ranging from impressive capability to extremely technical. With available features like Tru-Lok front and rear Electronic Locking Differentials, electric sway bars and rock rails, and a heavy-duty full-float rear axle, Wrangler models don't necessarily need a road to get where they're going. For every trail, there is a Jeep, though not every Jeep requires a trail—that part is entirely up to the driver. Choosing the Right Jeep for Your Drivestyle There are many advantages to having a rugged vehicle, even if your lifestyle doesn't include anything bumpier than the occasional pothole. When the roads get wet or cold, many drivers find that all-wheel drive gives them peace of mind in addition to extra traction and balance. Sure, a Jeep is a great choice for all your off-roading needs, but even if you have no off-roading needs at all, a Jeep model can be a great choice for you, your family, and your sense of adventure. Whether you fill the cargo area with your shopping, souvenirs, or survival supplies for a week in the wild, Jeep vehicles are prepared to get you wherever you need to go, whenever you need to drive there. Come in today and speak with our knowledgeable team. Tell them what you're looking for in a Jeep vehicle, and they'll offer you a variety of options to enhance your daily commute, weekend in the wilderness, and everything in between!

A grey 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe driving over a shallow river.

Your Guide to the 2024 Jeep Wrangler's Trims

Looking to find a Jeep Wrangler for sale near Independence? At Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown, we'll help you figure out which Wrangler trim is best for your needs. The 2024 Wrangler provides a quality lineup of excellent trim options to choose from and contains a little something unique for everyone while getting you where you need to go. On this year’s lineup, we have the Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and Rubicon X—all including powerful performance, special features, and a durable shell to keep you and your vehicle protected while off-roading. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport The standard or base trim of the 2024 Jeep Wrangler is the Sport, which starts with an MSRP of $31,995. The Sport trim provides stellar power with the Wrangler's standard 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, which offers 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. You can choose either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission with this engine. The 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the rest of the Wrangler's trim levels. With this engine and the manual transmission, the two-door Sport can tow up to 2,000 lbs, while the four-door model can tow up to 3,500 lbs. With the Sport trim, you’ll receive a classic Wrangler with enough get-up-and-go to start your day on the wild side. On all Jeep Wrangler trims, drivers will love the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, handsfree phone and audio, and a trial subscription to a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. More features and an upgraded sound system are available on the other Jeep Wrangler trims. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport S trim level is only just above the base model with an MSRP of $35,595. With the Sport S, you can add the Safety Group package which will add confidence to any drive, whether you jump onto the highway, stay in the city limits, or find yourself off the paved path. The features in this available package include automatic high-beam headlights, a blind spot monitor, and ParkSense Rear Park-Assist. How about when you’re having off-roading adventures and are ducking under loose tree branches or kicking up rocks? Will the Sport S be durable enough to handle the pressure? Of course, and with the bonus of a sturdy windshield made from Corning Gorilla glass, you are sure to minimize and prevent damage from occurring. So, sit back and relax, listening to your premium Alpine Audio system (that is available for the Sport S trim), and let the exterior shell handle the outdoor surprises. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Willys The next trim up is the iconic Willys, with an MSRP of $40,090. The standard engine on the Willys is the same 3.6L V6 with either the 6-speed manual transmission or the 8-speed automatic included on the Sport. You can also opt for an available 2.0L 4-cylinder engine on this trim that yields 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This trim serves a unique exterior design with special Willy hood decals, LED lights, and a stunning black grille. There are many customization options with available safety and technology group packages so you can make the Willys your own. A one-touch power top is available on this trim and is convenient for off-roading adventures or for those sunny days, when you want to feel the wind blow through your hair. However, you can only opt for this feature with the four-door model. When you choose the Willys trim, you’ll also gain access to nice comfort features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel for chilly days, and you can opt for a nine-speaker Alpine premium audio system. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara The next trim up is the Sahara. While only available with four doors, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler Sahara has ten color options, an available body-color three-piece hardtop, 18-inch wheels, and body-colored fender flares for a head-turning appearance. You can be the talk of Independence when you drive around town in this vehicle! Of course, this Jeep trim option also provides powerful LED lighting for better visibility and nighttime driving convenience. This trim begins with an MSRP of $49,790 and comes standard with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, though it can also be fitted with the 3.6L V6 engine. Drivers will find that this trim can tow up to 3,500 lbs when the model is properly equipped. Along with these alterations, the Sahara doesn’t stop there. You can opt for a few different side-step options, including black tubular side steps and chrome tubular side steps. With the Sahara, you can also opt for the Alpine audio system so you can rock out to your favorite playlist or listen to a good podcast as you are traveling. The Sahara trim can be equipped with an off-roading camera called the TrailCam Forward Facing Off-Road Camera, so you can see exactly what’s going on in front of you. Plus, you’ll never get lost again if you opt for the GPS navigation system that is available. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon You can't talk about the iconic Jeep Wrangler without discussing the Jeep Rubicon. This performance-focused trim starts at an MSRP of $47,390 and can be found in either two or four doors, unlike the Sahara trim. Regardless of which Wrangler Rubicon trim you swing for, you'll be getting a vehicle you absolutely love. With a durable body and off-roading tires, this Wrangler can take you anywhere you want to go and beyond—all without breaking a sweat. It is a reliable, well-rounded machine with upgrades to its exterior appearance, like special decals and an available Xtreme 35 Package with 35-inch wheels. Like the previous trim, it also features available trailer tow and auxiliary switches, as well as the Class-Exclusive One-Touch Power Top that adds convenience to your drive. It is even able to be fitted with WARN winch with steel bumpers. The Rubicon offers more than you could imagine. 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X offers the best of everything the Wrangler has to offer, adding more benefits to your daily adventures and providing more for your money. With an MSRP of $57,390, you will receive powerful performance and capability, as well as winch-capable steel bumpers and 35-inch tires. You’ll also find an impressive interior design and comfort that offers Nappa-leather trimmed seats with heated power front seats. When you choose the Rubicon X, you’ll get everything that makes a Wrangler exceptional, with a TrailCam, trim exclusive exterior designs, and a navigation system included. Find greatness in the 2024 Rubicon X trim level. Which is the Best Trim for You? So, have you decided? Dan Cummins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Georgetown, is here to help you discover the exact 2024 Jeep Wrangler trim level that is right for you. Get off-roading capabilities that will surely thrill you or an exterior design that screams extreme. With special editions to consider and a multitude of accessories available, the 2024 Wrangler is prepared to impress new and old fans of the Jeep Wrangler. Our dealership has a great team who rea able to answer any questions you may have about making the Wrangler your own. When you are ready to get started, take the trip from Independence to our dealership! MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for more details.