Daylight Saving Time Ends November 1: What Lee’s Summit Drivers Should Know

November 01, 2026 · 5 min read

Daylight Saving Time Ends November 1: Get Ready to Fall Back!

It's almost time to turn the clocks back! On Sunday, November 1, 2026, Daylight Saving Time ends, and clocks will move back one hour at 2 a.m. local time. That means an extra hour before the day begins for many of us, but it also brings earlier sunsets and darker evening commutes.
For drivers around Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, and the greater Kansas City area, the time change is a great reminder to prepare for reduced daylight and changing fall weather.
At McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit, we want you to enjoy the season while staying prepared for the road. Here's what to know before the clocks change.

When Does Daylight Saving Time End in 2026?

Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
Here's a quick reminder:

Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Time: Clocks move back one hour at 2 a.m.
What to do: Set manual clocks back one hour before going to bed Saturday night.
Vehicle reminder: Many newer Chevrolet models can update their clocks automatically, but it's worth checking your dashboard and infotainment display.

The change marks the return to Standard Time, bringing earlier sunrises and earlier sunsets.

How Does the Time Change Affect Lee’s Summit Drivers?

After the clocks fall back, many people will be driving home from work, picking up children, or running errands after sunset. Reduced daylight can make pedestrians, cyclists, wildlife, and other road hazards more difficult to see.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for driving around Lee’s Summit.

1. Get Ready for Darker Evening Commutes

If you're used to driving home while the sun is still out, your evening commute may look different after November 1.
Give yourself time to adjust to driving in the dark. Reduce your speed when visibility is limited, maintain a safe following distance, and pay extra attention at intersections and on unfamiliar roads.

2. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Shorter daylight hours can make pedestrians and cyclists harder to spot, especially during the evening rush.
Stay alert near crosswalks, residential neighborhoods, school zones, and shopping areas throughout Lee’s Summit. Slow down when approaching crosswalks and be prepared to stop for people crossing the road.
Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the road, particularly in areas with limited lighting.

3. Be Alert for Deer and Other Wildlife

Fall is an important time to watch for wildlife throughout the Lee’s Summit area and surrounding Missouri countryside.
Deer are often more active around dawn and dusk, which can overlap with morning and evening commutes. Pay attention near wooded areas, open fields, and roads with wildlife warning signs.
If an animal enters your path, brake firmly when safe. Avoid swerving sharply, since that can cause you to lose control or move into oncoming traffic.

4. Give Yourself Time to Adjust

The time change can temporarily affect your sleep schedule and alertness. If you feel tired, take a break before driving.
Getting adequate rest, allowing extra travel time, and avoiding distractions can help you stay focused as your routine adjusts to the new schedule.

Prepare Your Chevrolet for Darker Fall Evenings

Daylight Saving Time is also a great reminder to check your vehicle before colder weather arrives. A few simple maintenance steps can help you prepare for fall driving conditions.
Check your headlights and taillights. Make sure your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights work properly. Clean dirty light lenses so they can perform as intended.
Inspect your windshield wipers. Rain, fog, and road spray can reduce visibility. If your wipers streak, skip, or leave sections of the windshield unclear, consider replacing them.
Check your tire pressure. Cooler temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Use the recommended PSI listed on your driver's-side doorjamb label or in your owner's manual, and check your tires when they're cold.
Top off your windshield washer fluid. Make sure you have enough fluid to clear away dirt, road grime, and seasonal debris.
Keep your windshield clean. Dirt and smudges can increase glare from oncoming headlights and streetlights, especially during nighttime driving.
Review your Chevrolet's safety features. If your vehicle has features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, or automatic high-beam assist, consult your owner's manual to understand how they work and their limitations. These technologies can assist drivers but do not replace attentive driving.

Will Your Chevrolet's Clock Update Automatically?

Many newer Chevrolet vehicles can adjust their clocks automatically, depending on the model, infotainment system, software, and settings.
After November 1, check your dashboard clock and infotainment display. If the time doesn't update automatically, consult your owner's manual for instructions on adjusting the clock.
It's a small step that can help keep your appointments and daily routine on track.

Visit McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit for Your Fall Vehicle Needs

The end of Daylight Saving Time is a good opportunity to prepare for darker evenings and cooler temperatures. Checking your lights, windshield wipers, tire pressure, and fluid levels can help you feel more prepared for the season.
If your Chevrolet needs routine maintenance or you have questions about keeping your vehicle ready for fall, the team at McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit is here to help.
Visit McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit to learn more about our dealership and explore our available vehicles.
Remember: Daylight Saving Time ends November 1, 2026. Set your clocks back, stay alert on the road, and enjoy the fall season safely!

Nov 02, 2026

How Many Miles Are Too Many on a Used Car? | Lee’s Summit, MO

How Many Miles Are Too Many on a Used Car? Shopping for a used car in Lee’s Summit, Missouri? One of the first things you might check is the odometer. Mileage can tell you a lot about a vehicle’s history, but a higher number doesn't automatically mean a car is unreliable. The right used vehicle depends on several factors, including its age, maintenance history, overall condition, and price. At McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit, we want to help you feel confident as you explore your options and find a vehicle that fits your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider when deciding whether a used car has too many miles. Is 100,000 Miles Too Much for a Used Car? Not necessarily! Many modern vehicles can continue running well beyond 100,000 miles when properly maintained. Reaching that milestone doesn't automatically mean a vehicle is at the end of its life. Instead of focusing on mileage alone, consider how the vehicle was driven and cared for. A car with 110,000 highway miles and consistent maintenance may be a better option than a vehicle with 70,000 miles and a history of neglected maintenance. Before making a decision, review the service records, inspect the vehicle's condition, and take it for a test drive. What Is Considered High Mileage on a Used Car? Mileage expectations vary by vehicle, age, and driving habits. The following ranges can help you start your search: Under 30,000 miles: Often considered low mileage for a used vehicle, depending on its age. 30,000–60,000 miles: A common range for relatively newer used vehicles. 60,000–100,000 miles: May offer a balance between price and remaining vehicle life, depending on maintenance and condition. Over 100,000 miles: Can still be a worthwhile purchase when the vehicle has been properly maintained and priced accordingly. These ranges are general guidelines, not guarantees of reliability. Always evaluate the individual vehicle before deciding whether it is right for you. How Many Miles Should a Used Car Have Per Year? A common rule of thumb is approximately 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year, although actual driving habits vary. For example, a five-year-old vehicle with 65,000 miles may be within a typical mileage range. A similar vehicle with significantly more miles isn't necessarily a bad choice, but it deserves a closer look at its maintenance history and condition. Consider whether the mileage makes sense for the vehicle's age, and ask questions about how it was used. 5 Things to Check Besides Mileage 1. Maintenance Records Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake service, and other scheduled maintenance can make a meaningful difference in a vehicle's long-term condition. Ask whether service records are available and review any documentation provided. 2. Vehicle History Report A vehicle history report may help you identify reported accidents, ownership history, title issues, and recorded service information. Keep in mind that reports may not include every incident or repair. 3. Overall Condition Look for uneven tire wear, unusual noises, warning lights, fluid leaks, and signs of previous damage. A professional inspection can help identify issues that aren't obvious during a quick walk-around. 4. Type of Driving Highway driving can put different demands on a vehicle than frequent stop-and-go city driving. While mileage alone won't tell you how a car was treated, asking about its previous use can provide helpful context. 5. Price and Upcoming Maintenance Compare similar vehicles with comparable mileage, features, age, and condition. Also consider whether the vehicle may need tires, brakes, or other maintenance soon. A lower purchase price may not represent the best overall value if significant repairs are approaching. Should You Buy a Used Chevy With Over 100,000 Miles? A used Chevrolet with more than 100,000 miles may still be worth considering. The key is to evaluate the specific model, its service history, its current condition, and its price. Whether you're shopping for a Chevy Silverado, Equinox, Traverse, or another used vehicle, take time to compare your options. Review the vehicle's history, ask questions about maintenance, and schedule a test drive before making your decision. You can also check for outstanding safety recalls through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall lookup. Find Your Next Used Car at McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit Searching for used cars in Lee’s Summit, MO? McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit is here to help you explore your options and find a vehicle that fits your needs, budget, and driving habits. Don't let the odometer make the decision for you. Focus on the complete picture, including maintenance, condition, history, and value. Ready to start shopping? Visit McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit to explore available vehicles and take the next step toward your next ride.

Oct 31, 2026

Best Places to See Fall Colors Around Kansas City in Your Chevrolet

Take a Fall Drive: Where to See Beautiful Autumn Colors Around Kansas City When autumn arrives in the Kansas City area, the landscape transforms with shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold. From tree-lined parkways to peaceful nature trails, fall is one of the best times to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the season. Whether you're taking your Chevrolet Silverado out for a scenic drive, loading up your Chevy Equinox for a family adventure, or heading out for a weekend in your Chevrolet Traverse, there are plenty of places around KC to enjoy the changing leaves. Here are some beautiful spots to add to your fall bucket list! 1. Loose Park – Kansas City, Missouri Best for: A relaxing afternoon surrounded by colorful trees Loose Park is a Kansas City favorite, known for its walking paths, open green spaces, and picturesque scenery. When the leaves begin to change, the mature trees throughout the park create a beautiful backdrop for an autumn stroll or family photos. Pack a few snacks, bring your camera, and enjoy a peaceful fall afternoon before heading back out on the road. Location: 5200 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 2. Powell Gardens – Kingsville, Missouri Best for: Garden scenery and a full fall-day outing Located southeast of Kansas City, Powell Gardens offers landscaped gardens, wooded areas, and seasonal displays that make it a lovely destination in autumn. The changing foliage adds another layer of color to the gardens, creating plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season. Check the gardens' official website for current fall events, admission details, and opening hours before you go. Location: 1609 NW U.S. Highway 50, Kingsville, MO Plan your visit: Powell Gardens 3. Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center – Blue Springs, Missouri Best for: Nature lovers and peaceful woodland walks If you want to get away from the busy streets, Burr Oak Woods Conservation Nature Center is a great option near Lee's Summit. Its wooded trails offer a chance to experience fall foliage up close while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Take a leisurely hike, look for seasonal wildlife, and enjoy the crisp autumn air. It's an easy way to turn an ordinary afternoon into a mini outdoor adventure. Location: 1401 NW Park Road, Blue Springs, MO Plan your visit: Missouri Department of Conservation 4. Lake Jacomo – Blue Springs, Missouri Best for: Scenic lake views and colorful reflections For a fall outing with a little extra scenery, head toward Lake Jacomo in Fleming Park. The combination of water, wooded hills, and autumn foliage can make for a beautiful seasonal escape. Enjoy the lake views, explore nearby park areas, or find a peaceful spot to take in the changing colors. It's also a fun option for a spontaneous weekend drive from Lee's Summit. Location: Fleming Park, near Blue Springs and Lee's Summit, MO Plan your visit: Jackson County Parks + Rec 5. Swope Park – Kansas City, Missouri Best for: Exploring one of KC's largest urban parks Swope Park offers wooded areas, open spaces, and miles of places to explore. During fall, its trees add seasonal color to the park's natural surroundings, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone looking to enjoy autumn without leaving the metro. Make a day of it by exploring the park's attractions or taking a walk among the changing leaves. Location: 3999 E. Gregory Boulevard, Kansas City, MO 6. Parkville Nature Sanctuary – Parkville, Missouri Best for: Forest trails, creek views, and a quiet escape North of downtown Kansas City, Parkville Nature Sanctuary is a lovely destination for those who prefer trails and natural scenery over a traditional drive-through attraction. Walk beneath the tree canopy, enjoy the peaceful setting, and look for colorful leaves along the trails. Because this is a nature sanctuary, plan to explore on foot and check trail rules and conditions before visiting. Location: 100 E. 12th Street, Parkville, MO Plan your visit: Parkville Nature Sanctuary 7. Weston Bend State Park – Weston, Missouri Best for: A scenic road trip with beautiful overlooks If you're up for a longer autumn adventure, Weston Bend State Park is worth considering. The park is known for its wooded hiking trails and scenic views overlooking the Missouri River valley. Fall foliage can make the overlooks especially beautiful, depending on the timing of the season. Bring comfortable walking shoes and allow extra time to explore instead of rushing through the drive. Location: 16600 Highway 45 North, Weston, MO Plan your visit: Missouri State Parks 8. The Country Roads Around Lee's Summit and Lake Lotawana Best for: A spontaneous fall cruise close to home Sometimes, you don't need a destination to enjoy autumn. The roads around Lee's Summit, Lake Lotawana, and the surrounding countryside can offer beautiful views of changing trees, open fields, and quiet neighborhoods. Take your time, choose a route that allows for safe stops, and enjoy the scenery from behind the wheel. Remember that foliage conditions vary each year, so a little flexibility can help you catch the colors at their best. Driving tip: Never stop in a traffic lane or on an unsafe shoulder to take photos. Use designated parking areas and overlooks. When Is the Best Time to See Fall Colors Around Kansas City? Fall foliage timing changes from year to year based on temperatures, rainfall, and other weather conditions. Around Kansas City, the best colors often appear during October and can continue into early November, but the timing varies by location and season. For the best chance of catching peak color: Check local foliage reports before leaving. Visit parks in the morning or late afternoon for beautiful natural light. Explore a mix of wooded parks, gardens, and scenic overlooks. Keep your plans flexible in case weather changes the timing of the leaves. Get Your Chevrolet Ready for a Fall Road Trip A fall color adventure is even better when you're comfortable and ready for the drive. Before heading out, check your tire pressure, windshield wipers, fluid levels, and lights. If you're planning a longer trip, it's also a good idea to make sure your vehicle is up to date on routine maintenance. Whether you're driving a Chevrolet Trax, Equinox, Traverse, Colorado, or Silverado, the right vehicle can help make your seasonal adventures more enjoyable. At McCarthy Chevrolet Lee's Summit, we're here to help you explore your options and keep your Chevrolet ready for the road. Visit McCarthy Chevrolet Lee's Summit to browse our inventory and learn more about our dealership. Your next fall adventure might be closer than you think. Grab your keys, plan a route, and enjoy the beautiful colors around Kansas City!

Oct 30, 2026

What Is the Correct Tire Pressure, and How Often Should You Check It?

What Is the Correct Tire Pressure for Your Chevrolet? Whether you're commuting around Lee’s Summit, driving through Kansas City, or planning a longer road trip, maintaining the correct tire pressure is an important part of vehicle maintenance. Properly inflated tires help support safe handling, consistent tire wear, and fuel efficiency. But what should your tire pressure be, and how often should you check it? The correct tire pressure depends on your specific Chevrolet model, tire size, and vehicle configuration. Fortunately, finding the recommended pressure and checking it at home is relatively simple. Where Can You Find Your Recommended Tire Pressure? The best place to find your Chevrolet's recommended tire pressure is the tire information label on the driver's-side doorjamb. You can also check your owner's manual. The recommended pressure is measured in PSI, or pounds per square inch. Keep these tips in mind: Use the recommended PSI: Follow the pressure listed on your vehicle's doorjamb label or in your owner's manual. Don't rely on the tire sidewall: The number printed on the tire usually indicates its maximum allowable pressure, not the recommended everyday setting for your vehicle. Check front and rear tires: Some vehicles require different pressures for the front and rear tires. Check your spare tire: If your vehicle has a spare, consult your owner's manual for its recommended pressure and inspection schedule. If you've installed different tires or wheels, confirm that your setup is appropriate for your vehicle before making pressure adjustments. How Often Should You Check Your Tire Pressure? A good rule of thumb is to check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long road trips. It's also smart to check it when temperatures change significantly or when your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) alerts you. Temperature is especially important in Lee’s Summit, where seasonal weather changes can affect tire pressure. As a general guideline, tire pressure can change by approximately 1 PSI for every 10-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature. That means a tire that was properly inflated during warmer weather may be underinflated when temperatures drop. Even if your dashboard doesn't display a warning, regular manual checks are still important. Your TPMS is designed to alert you when pressure becomes significantly low; it isn't a replacement for routine tire inspections. How to Check Your Tire Pressure at Home You don't need a service appointment to check your tire pressure. With a reliable tire pressure gauge and an air compressor, you can handle this basic maintenance task yourself. Follow these steps: Check your tires when they're cold. For the most accurate reading, check before driving or after the vehicle has been parked for several hours. Find the recommended PSI. Look at the driver's-side doorjamb label or owner's manual. Remove the valve cap. Keep it somewhere safe while checking the tire. Use a tire pressure gauge. Press the gauge firmly onto the valve stem and read the measurement. Add or release air as needed. Use an air compressor to inflate an underinflated tire. If the pressure is too high, release a small amount of air and check again. Recheck the pressure. Repeat until the tire reaches the recommended PSI. Replace the valve cap. Repeat the process for all four tires and your spare, if applicable. If you notice a tire repeatedly losing air, don't simply keep adding air. A puncture, damaged valve stem, or other issue may need professional attention. What Happens If Your Tires Are Underinflated or Overinflated? Incorrect tire pressure can affect more than your driving comfort. Risks of Underinflated Tires Driving on underinflated tires can lead to: Increased tire wear, particularly along the outer edges. Reduced fuel efficiency. Changes in steering response and handling. Excessive heat buildup, which can increase the risk of tire failure. Risks of Overinflated Tires Overinflated tires can also create problems, including: Uneven tread wear, often concentrated toward the center of the tread. A firmer, less comfortable ride. Changes in traction and handling. Maintaining the recommended pressure helps your tires perform as intended and can help you get the most out of their usable life. What Should You Do When the Tire Pressure Warning Light Comes On? If your tire pressure warning light illuminates, check your tire pressure as soon as it's safe to do so. A temperature drop may be the cause, but don't assume weather is the only explanation. A puncture or slow leak could also be responsible. If a tire looks visibly flat, your vehicle handles differently, or you suspect a rapid loss of pressure, pull over somewhere safe and assess the situation. Avoid driving on a severely underinflated tire. If the warning light flashes and then stays illuminated, your vehicle may have a TPMS malfunction. Consult your owner's manual or schedule an inspection. Keep Your Chevrolet Ready for the Road at McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit From daily commutes to weekend getaways, proper tire pressure is a simple way to help keep your Chevrolet ready for the road. Regular checks can help you catch problems early, maintain more consistent tire wear, and support safe driving throughout the changing Missouri seasons. If you're unsure about your tire pressure, notice uneven tread wear, or suspect a slow leak, the team at McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit can help you determine what your vehicle needs. Visit McCarthy Chevrolet Lee’s Summit to learn more about our dealership and available vehicle services. Helpful Resource: For additional tire safety guidance, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's tire safety page.