The Four Words That Will Get You a Quality Used Toyota

When buying a used Toyota, you must take many things into consideration.  In order to make sure that you get the most for your money, here is a list of things to check out.

1. Fuel Economy

Pay attention to the fuel economy of your vehicle.  You may get it for a steal, but if it has poor fuel economy, you will pay for it every time you visit the pump.  Try to find a model with an EPA estimate of 30 MPG combined or better.

2. Price

Based on your budget, the price of the model can make a big difference.  Only you can decide how much you would like to spend on your next used Toyota.  However, make sure that you do not overspend and create a financial hardship for yourself.

Make sure to find out how much your monthly payments will be and if you will be able to afford them.

3. Resale Value

Depending upon the model you choose, the resale value will vary.  It is to your advantage to find a model with the highest resale value possible.  This however depends on how long you plan on keeping the vehicle.

If you plan on driving it into the ground, resale value will be irrelevant.  On the other hand, if you only plan on keeping it for a few years, pay attention to its resale value.

4. Mileage

Another item to consider is the mileage of the vehicle.  Many car parts and components start to go bad between 75,000 and 100,000 miles.  Make sure to find out what parts could need to be replaced before purchasing any used vehicle.

You might think you’re getting a great deal and then end up with thousands of dollars in repairs a few weeks or months later.  Check to see if the previous owner used Toyota OEM parts, this will ensure the car was well taken care of.

If you consider all of these things before buying your next used Toyota, you will end up with the best one for you.

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Smartphone Apps to Help You Find the Lowest Gas Prices

With gas prices on the rise, you’re probably looking for innovative ways to save at the pump.

One of the best tools to save money on gas is in your pocket.

If you have a smartphone, you can use it to help save money.  The following apps are great to use at the pump and in your car.

• The AAA TripTik app is available for the iPhone and an Android version will be released soon.  This app tracks the gas prices at more than 130,000 gas stations and you don’t have to be a AAA member to use it.

• GasBuddy is currently available on the iPhone, Android, and Windows Phone.  Users enter prices every time they pass a gas station.  This app then allows you to search for gas stations based on your location to find the best prices in your area.

• Gas Cubby is available for the iPhone and helps users identify problems based on the fuel economy of their vehicle.  If the fuel economy is not optimal, the app will make recommendations based on what could possibly be wrong depending upon that specific vehicle.

• MapQuest is available on iPhone and Android and can help users save money by not being stuck in traffic.  This app uses live traffic data to find the most efficient routes and save you from wasting gas in a traffic jam.

By using these apps on your smartphone, you will be sure to save money and find the cheapest gas in your area.  To save on gas, also be sure to take good care of your car.  Use quality Toyota parts such as genuine Toyota Corolla parts.

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Lexus GS 2012 Changes the Label

Ever since the Lexus name started producing a GS model, the company has seen it as the performance branch of Lexus. Until lately, however, Lexus had placed more focus internally on creating a vehicle that aimed for perfection and luxury before performance. The last couple years have began sort of a new stage for Lexus, with the new LFA and other specific vehicles designed for the speed demon. This trend was exemplified in the GS line. It was and is meant to be the quantifier of the two emerging ideas pushing Lexus into the future of automobile design, those again being luxury and performance.

The GS has had it’s fair share of criticism over the years, mostly arising because of Lexus’ fairly small past experience with extremely sporty vehicles.  However, the new 2012 model, which has yet to be officially unveiled, seems to have won some critically acclaimed car review experts and blogs that had access to a special invite-only test run of the car. Two journalists from autoblog.com tested the 2012 Lexus GS, and gave a fairly in depth breakdown of the newest addition to the Lexus family. In his report, Jonathon Ramsey covers the new additions and tweaks applied to the Toyota Parts that makeup the vehicle.

“Lexus will tell you that the pearl is the new suspension, and depending on how you look at it, they might have a point. Yet, while we’d admit that the revised linkages are a huge part of it, we think what’s even more special is what the car will let you do with them,” Ramsey writes. “If sporty go is what you’re after, then this GS has almost nothing in common with the current car other than its name.” It seems that with the newly implimented Lexus dynamic handling suspension (LDH), the suspension of the vehicle has been pushed to limits not seen before on a Lexus.

The best part about the 2012 GS is probably the fact that even while there was so much tweaking and changing under the hood, the luxurious feel and experience is still evident while driving. The interior still has the reworked and innovative cockpit, and the stitched leather makes passengers change their outlook on other vehicles considered “luxury” on the road today. As Ramsey puts it, “The look and feel is so much nicer that it genuinely made us ask of the current car, ‘Have we really been okay with this all this time?”

To read the full review found on autoblog.com, visit the article found HERE. All photos and quotes were directly pulled from the article mentioned.

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Hybrids: Are They Worth the Hype?

There has been a lot of hype over the past ten years about hybrids.

Hybrid technology has improved and become less expensive.  However, there is still a debate as to whether they are actually worth the extra money.

Before you buy a hybrid, do a little hybrid math.  You may be surprised what you find.  Consider the following:

• You must first consider the price increase from the conventional model to the hybrid.
• You must then consider the difference in fuel economy.
• Also do not forget to take into account if there is an increased cost of ownership for a hybrid model over a conventional one.

For the many hybrid models that exist, it will take years to recoup the additional costs compared to the conventional model.

On the other hand, as gas prices continue to rise, certain hybrid models, like the Toyota Prius and Toyota Camry Hybrid might become more economical.  Just be sure you purchase quality Toyota Prius parts and Toyota Camry parts.

Before purchasing a hybrid, make sure to find out if it is the right vehicle for you.  If not, you might not like the decision you make.

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Web Technologies in Your Car

As the Internet becomes more integrated into our lives, it is also becoming a bigger part of many things we use everyday.  This includes automobiles.

Every year, more and more cars are starting to feature technology that relies on the Internet.

This list now includes:

• Toyota offers a service that allows you to use web apps such as Pandora and Bing.  It’s called Entune.
• Facebook in GM vehicles equipped with OnStar service.
• BMW offering an iPad docking port in certain models.
• Audi integrating Google Earth into its navigation system.
• Mercedes offering steering wheel mounted controls for Pandora as it streams from a smartphone through Bluetooth.
• MyFord Touch vehicle integration with Pandora and several other web apps

In the future, this list will continue to grow.  Consumers can count on greater integration of the Internet and other technology in vehicles in years to come.

This is because consumer technology is now the main driving force behind progress in the automotive industry.

It is hard to say exactly what the future will hold, but it is certain that it will include more integrated technology.

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The World’s Most Unusual Auto Races

There are many types of car races.  Everyone knows about NASCAR, which includes the famous Daytona 500.

However, did you know that there are several unusual races that take place every year throughout the world?

Take a look at some of the most usual races around.

1) Red Bull Soapbox Race

The Red Bull Soapbox Race seems like your typical soapbox race, as seen in countless movies and TV shows.  This however, is not the case.  The race emphasizes creativity of design and features cars shaped like pianos, corncobs, and even the Golden Gate Bridge.

2) Carpocalypse – Ambulance Chain Race

Using the old Atari game, “Test Drive: Eve of Destruction,” as its inspiration, the Spike-TV program, Carpocalypse created the Ambulance Chain Race.  In this bizarre race, ambulances race while towing cars on a circular track.

3) The California Melee

The California Melee takes its inspiration from the Mille Miglia.  This was a 1,000-mile Italian endurance race from a time when cars were not made to go on long trips.  This less-traditional take on the race has participants traveling 750 miles and stopping at pubs, pit stops, and motels in pre-1975 vehicles.

4) 24 Hours of LeMons

Unlike the French race that it is named after, this race features cars that cost under $500, including any modifications.  It is a 24-hour endurance race that determines penalties by spinning the “Wheel of Misfortune.”

5) Gumball 3000

Much like its namesake, the Cannonball Run (not the Burt Reynolds movie), this race, which starts and ends in various locations, features cross-country or even around-the-world courses.  Using luxury cars and scenic locations and even flying cars across oceans, this is perhaps one of the most unusual races in the world.

These are just a few of the many unusual races that exist in the world.  There could even be some in your area if you look hard enough.  The next time you’re waiting on repairs, you can spend some time researching these races while mechanics are installing Toyota Highlander parts on your vehicle.

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Scion iQ Micro-Subcompact

Microcars have been around on the road since the 1940′s, and they definitely have changed over the years. When they first started being produced by European countries, they were mostly based on motorcycles and used during war times to transport messages and small packages. However, as the 20th and 21st century havecome and passed, the Microcar or “SubCompact” vehicle has been on the bleeding edge of innovative design and unparalleled fuel efficiency. They are now designed to fit usually 2 to 4 passengers  through crowded city streets and are produced with manuverability at the top of the priority list. The Smart car, launched in 1988, quickly became the worlds most popular SubCompact, but with Toyota’s newly introduced 2012 Scion iQ Premium Micro-Subcompact, there may be a new micro on the block.

The main goal in Toyota’s design labs when creating the 2012 Scion iQ was “Intelligent Design, Not Sacrifice”. From the Front-mounted differential, to the A/C unit, everything in the iQ was designed with space in mind. It integrates the “3+1″ seating arrangement to allow “one adult to sit behind the front passenger and a child or small package behind the driver.” This allows the iQ to have a very small appearance on the outside, while still having a spacious interior that can house 4 people. This is a new trend we are seeing on the SubCompact models, that will allow smaller families living in the city to take advantage of these fuel efficient vehicles.

Toyota also wanted to make sure the vehicle would still be able to preform to industry standards while taking up only 120.1 inches. To do this, they included a “1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque”. It is an efficient choice in energy consumption that will still yeild the kind of power Toyota customers have come to expect from the company and its Toyota Parts.

The iQ includes some of the best safety features the industry has to offer. It is “packed with an industry leading 11 standard airbags, including the world’s first rear window airbag” and comes standard with the Star Safety System. Antilock Brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Contro, and Smart Stop Technology brake-override will be standard on all the 2012 models.

For more information on the new addition to the Scion family, visit the news release found HERE.

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How To Avoid Major Headaches On Your Next Summer Road Trip

Summer road trips can be a lot of fun.  They also can create a lot of stress.

As we gear up for the summer road trip season, it is important to keep the following tips in mind.  If you do, all of your road trips will go off without a hitch.

1) Plan the Best Time to Leave

If you have small children, try to leave when they are relaxed and tired.  This would probably be in the evening and they could sleep through most of the drive.  Also, do not forget to take traffic conditions into consideration.

2) Bring Entertainment

There is nothing better than playing car license plate bingo or other fun car games.  Bring a variety of games for everyone in the car to play.  This will make the trip go much faster and everyone will be in a better mood.

3) Bring “Quiet” Entertainment

In addition to car games, make sure there is entertainment that is quiet and does not bother other people.  After a while, your passengers might want some time to themselves.  Bring books, portable MP3 players, video games, and other activities.

4) Bring Snacks

To ensure an efficient trip, bring lots of snacks to avoid having to stop for food frequently.  This will also help you save money.  If you really want to save time and money, pack a cooler full of sandwiches for meals.  Also, don’t forget water and other drinks and make sure the food isn’t terribly messy either.

5) Bring a First-Aid Kit

On any long road trip, people will get sick and accidents will happen.  Being prepared ahead of time can help make it a more pleasant experience.  Bring bandages and basic medications.  Pack them in a zip-lock bag and don’t forget paper towels and toilet paper just in case.

If you follow these tips on your next road trip, it will be great and you’ll want to start planning your next one as soon as you return.  Also be sure to use quality Toyota parts, also known as Toyota OEM parts, before you go on any summer road trip.

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How to Shop for Car Insurance And Save Money

Shopping for car insurance can be a difficult process.  It’s not like you’re going to the store to buy a shirt or a television.

Buying car insurance requires expertise and skill if you want to save money.

When shopping for car insurance, make sure that you know what you’re doing.  Otherwise you could end up with too much or too little coverage and be in trouble if you get into an accident.

Keep the following things in mind the next time you shop for car insurance:

Coverage

Having the right amount of coverage for your vehicle is very important.  You must make sure that you have at least the state-mandated minimum amount of coverage for the state that you live in.  Also, consider if you want comprehensive coverage or just collision.

Cost

The amount of coverage that you receive will greatly affect the cost of your insurance premium.  The cost will also depend on how many installments you use to pay your premium.  The insurance company might offer incentives depending on how many you choose.

Competition

Don’t forget that in an industry like car insurance, everyone wants your business.  Shop around and compare companies.  Depending on the company, you could save yourself a lot of money each month.

Negotiate

You shouldn’t be afraid to negotiate your premiums with the company you are considering.  You might be able to knock a serious chunk of change off of your premium.

If you remember all of these tips, the next time you shop for car insurance you will find the best coverage for your vehicle.  Also when you’re not shopping for car insurance, be sure to take good care of your car.  Use genuine Toyota parts such as quality Camry parts.

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Anti-Theft Systems: A Great Safety Feature or Just Hype?

Here are some eye-popping statistics on auto thefts in the United States.

According to the FBI, the total value of stolen motor vehicles in a given year can add up to more than $5 billion.

Toyota owners, here’s what you want to pay attention to: The Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla are high targets for auto theft. Many times these thieves are after Camry parts and Corolla parts.

So how do you protect your Toyota?

One popular method is anti-theft systems.  But are they worth the investment?

The answer is more complex than just yes or no.  If you want to protect your vehicle, you need to take a layered approach.

By this, we mean that you need to use a few of the security tips below.  This will help to ensure that your Toyota is protected.

1. Use Your Factory Installed Alarm – Using your factory installed Toyota car alarm is your first and best line of defense.  In most cases, this will be enough to protect your car.

2. Consider VIN Etching – If you’re unfamiliar with VIN etching, it involves etching the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the windshield and other parts of your car.  This prevents thieves from stealing and selling your car for parts.

3. Tracking Systems – In case your car is stolen, you can track your car via radio frequency or GPS.  LoJack is a popular provider.

Now to answer the question: Are anti-theft systems great or just hype?

The answer is GREAT.  They’re a great first line of defense.  If you are still concerned about your car getting stolen, consider some of the other options in this post.

How do you protect your Toyota car or truck?  What types of security measures do you take?

Let’s start a discussion below.

Also don’t forget to lock your doors.  That’s perhaps the most important thing that you can do to protect your vehicle.

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Toyota Car Safety: You Better Have These Items In Your Trunk

We all know that Toyotas are reliable vehicles.

Even so, you never know when you’re going to be stuck on the side of the road.  Flat tires, dead batteries and car accidents can happen at any time.

To help you stay prepared, you should have the following items in the trunk of your Toyota.

• Jumper Cables: Every car or truck should have a good set of jumper cables.  You never know when you might need them.

• Flashlight: Comes in handy when you need to look under your car or when you’re stuck outside at night.

• Mini Air Compressor: You never know when you’re going to need air in your tires.

• Screwdriver and Wrenches: These are very useful if you need to do minor repairs on the side of the road.

• Rags or Cloths: Great for handling the greasy parts of your car and checking the oil.

• First Aid Kit: This is a necessity.  Be sure to include bandages and aspirin.

• Warm Clothes/Blankets: You never know when you’ll be stuck out in the cold.

• Bungee Cords: These come in handy for strapping things down.  You never know what you’ll get at a store.

• Gas Can: It’s good to keep one of these in your trunk.  Just make sure there’s no gas in it.

With these items in your trunk, you’ll be prepared for anything.  Also be sure to check that your spare tire, jack and tire wrench are in good shape.  This will help when you need to change a flat.  When you take your Toyota in for repairs, also make sure that they use Toyota OEM parts such as quality Tacoma parts.

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What You Should Do After A Car Accident

There are more than 6 million car accidents in the United States every year.

There is a good chance that you’ll probably get into an accident at some point.  Do you know what to do if you get into a car accident?

Following these tips will get you through the ordeal.

Step 1: Make Sure Everyone Is OK – Check to make sure that all passengers are safe.  If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road.  If you can’t move your vehicle, get to the side of the road or a safe place when traffic permits.

Step 2: Trade Information – You’ll want to get the other driver’s information.  Be sure to get:

• Full name
• Address and contact information
• Insurance information
• Driver license number and license plate number
• A description of the car

Step 3: Take Pictures – Use your cell phone camera to take pictures of the accident.  This will help to document the accident.

Step 4:  File A Report – In many cases, police won’t come to the scene unless there are injuries or major damage.  It’s up to you to file an accident report.  You can typically find accident report documents at the police station or online.

Step 5:  Talk With Your Insurance Company – At this step, you’ll want to talk with your insurance company about the accident.  See what they cover.  Check to see if they cover tow truck or rental car fees.

Following these five steps will help you out should you ever get into a car accident.

Have you been in a car accident?  What happened?  Share your experience below.

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