Dear Car Thief...Not Today!

Now that Summer has begun, you’ll probably go to a BBQ or some other outdoor activity to enjoy the sunshine and ring in the sizzling months to come.  It’s time to kick back, let your hair down, and have some fun–just make sure your car doesn’t leave the party without you. Leaving a note on your car probably won't help prevent theft, but these tips will!

1. If you are going to drink, don’t drive. We’re not talking about avoiding a DUI—that should be a given. Many people this weekend will head out to a BBQ with the plan to leave their car overnight and cab it home. Don’t do it!
2. Don’t assume that the shrubby corner of the neighborhood is the safe place to park your car. We know it’s hot, but don’t sacrifice safety for shade! Always park in a well-lit area; ideally one that’s easily visible from a distance.
3. Double check that your doors are locked and never keep your spare key in or near your car. In that same line of thought, don’t store anything of value in it. That includes your trunk! Car insurance won’t cover these items if they are stolen.
4. Think about installing a GPS system. If the worst ends up happening and your vehicle is stolen, you can track it down before it’s too late.

5 Tips on Being a Good Passenger

1. Unless your driver designates you as the DJ, hands off the radio!
2. Don’t freak out. If you are clutching at the door or gasping every time a car pulls in front of you, the driver will be focused on your drama instead of the road.
3. Offer to help with directions. These days many drivers have GPS, but if they don’t this is a really nice gesture.
4. Be sociable. When passengers are fully absorbed in some activity that renders them speechless for long stretches of time (reading a book, watching a movie, playing a game, etc.) it makes the driver feel like a chauffeur.
5. Show respect. If you are a grown person, it is pathetic if your driver has to remind you that you should: buckle your seatbelt, not to smoke in their car, and not use the dashboard as a footrest.

What Your Car Did in College

1. Got a dolphin or butterfly bumper sticker (hello spring break!)
2. Way too many ‘donuts’ freshman year.
3. The 'major' change...E-break 180.
4. Antenna topper: because your car was a rebel without a cause and wanted to make a statement.
5. Just coasting in neutral for a while. Hey why rush?
6. Finally kicked it into high gear just before the finish line.

Congratulations class of 2014! We wish you and your car many adventures to come.

How to Make a Road Trip Playlist

The perfect road trip requires a perfect playlist. Here are five tips to help make sure your playlist is well-tuned when the rubber hits the road.

1.  Variety is the spice of life. Be sure you have a mix of old favorites, new ear worms, and crowd favorites. An eclectic selection works well with the spontaneity of road trips and enhances your sense of adventure. 
2.  If you have passengers, make sure that their tastes are taken into consideration and their musical tastes are represented. Or, work from multiple playlists and take turns being DJ.
3.  Keep it positive. Good tunes make for good moods. The music you listen to on your trip is an integral part of your experience and these songs will be connected with the trip in your memory.
4.  Keep the flow of the music in mind. Start with something spunky and upbeat, keep longer songs for the middle when you will have longer stretches of road, and be sure to end with something epic.
5. Burn your playlist onto a CD so you can give it as a gift or keep it as a memory of your trip.

Getting Your Toyota in Shape for Summer

As the calendar turns to the summer season, many of us will be hitting the road for vacation. But before you head out, make sure your car is in great driving condition. With the temps starting to rise, don’t forget to check your engine hoses for cracks, leaks and loose connections. They should be firm, never soft and malleable.

If your car needs a little more attention and repairs, be sure to schedule a service appointment with our awesome service department!

Three Ways to Save Money While Driving

We all would like to find a little extra cash in our wallets every now and then. But did you know that the way you drive can actually help save you money?

The driving experience can be hacked to benefit your bank account, and by doing these three tips, it will also save you money. Here are three tips to optimize your gas mileage and help you spend less money at the pump.

• No more junk in your trunk: Weighing down your car trunk with a set of golf clubs or an emergency water supply will take a toll on your fuel efficiency. Every extra 100 pounds is estimated to cut a vehicle's mileage by 2%.
• You gotta keep 'em well inflated: Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve your gas mileage by 3% or more. So remember to schedule regular maintenance.
• Buy premium and pay the price: Save money on gas by purchasing the grade that is recommended for your car — you won't benefit by spending more. You don't need premium gas to get better gas mileage.

If it's time to trade in your gas-guzzler, stop by our dealership and test drive a new Toyota today!

Three Car Accessories for your Spring Cleaning

As the temperature begins to warm, many of us will add some spring cleaning to our to do lists. But before you start tackling your household chores, don't forget about your car too.

Here are three handy accessories to help keep your car clean and organized.

• Floor Mats - Keep dirt, grime and dust bunnies at bay and protect your interior with floor mats.
• Car Litter Baskets - Avoid turning your car into a moving trash bin and keep a litter basket handy to keep your trash contained. Remember to empty out regularly as well.
• Vehicle Hangers - These hangers will certainly make your trips to the dry cleaners a little easier.

If your car is in need of some repairs, be sure to schedule a service appointment with our dealership today!