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Summer time means more time spent on the open road and exploring uncharted territories in the wilderness, and enjoying a day out soaking up the rays on white sand beaches listening to the ocean waves.  Unfortunately, both of those things also mean your vehicle will have regular contact with one of Mother Nature’s finest creatures: birds! While you’re appreciating a meadowlark in the woods or giggling at the tricky antics of a fry-stealing seagull, their little feathered patooties can wreak havoc on your precious automobile with just a few stray droppings.  The acid in the feces begins to burn and bubble the paint and clear coat.  It will etch into the paint and corrode it with rapid inte. Ugh!  But never fear, Classic’s Body Shop is here!  Let us save the day from villainous bird feces and help you protect your car. more Today we’re going to cover some helpful tips and tricks via our Body Shop Technicians for removing bird poop and protecting your car’s paint and clearcoat for years to come. Bird poop is highly corrosive thanks to the uric acid and chemical compounds within it, and the strong acidic pH of between 3 and 5.  If left unchecked, the bird droppings will quickly degrade clear coat, bleach and bubble the paint, and cause scratches and abrasions on the surface.   In fact, paint damage can occur as early as 10 minutes, especially in hot weather and direct sunlight, so it should be removed as soon as possible within 48 hours from contact with bird poop. While it is really important that you remove it as quickly as possible, don't just swipe, wipe and go!  There is a method to the madness when it comes to cleaning off the “muck” and not just anything can be used; you need products that are heavy “doody” enough to clear it without damage.  Trying to scrape it or remove it without taking the proper steps will further damage your vehicle’s clear coat and paint, and leave it prone to rust and further corrosion. Here’s a list of helpful ways to remove bird droppings from your vehicle, and great ways to clean, buff, and protect it for the future: Commercial Bird Poop Cleaning Solutions Soak microfiber cloth in a cleaning solution and place gently on top of dried caked on bird poop for 15 mins, rub softly with the cloth to lift the poop mess off; use a clay bar to pick up remaining impurities and muck left behind and buff with polish. Bird Poop wipes made of bamboo or other soft fibers and covered in gentle, noncorrosive cleaning solution or a little bottle of specialized Poop Spray can also be used. WD40 Spray Spray a generous amount on dried up bird poop splats and let it sit for about one minute.  Using a clean microfiber cloth and a soft touch, gently wipe and it should lift up easily! Hot Water + Baking Soda Spray Mix 1 Tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a 32 ounce spray bottle filled with hot water, stir, and shake to dissolve. Spritz the solution onto the dried bird poop and let it soak in for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse with fresh water from a bucket or hose. Seltzer and Club Soda on Windshield For bird poop that’s stuck to your windshield and stubborn enough that it won’t remove with wiper fluid, a little bubbly will do the trick!  Simply pour a little club soda or seltzer on it, let sit for up to 5 minutes or so, and then spray with clean fresh water, and wipe with windshield wipers and wiper fluid. Parked under a tree and returned to a polka-dotted poop mess and feeling a bit intimidated? We get it!  Sometimes, things are best left to the pros.  In this case, we recommend having your car professionally detailed and cleaned by an auto body technician or automotive detailer. Have you left the poop on a little too long or perhaps made a rookie move of cleaning it without realizing the proper technique? If your paint has been scratched, damaged, bubbled, or is beginning to corrode, you can bring your car in for a professional touch-up and have it repainted or a new clear-coat applied. Looking to head off those dastardly defecating demons of the sky? No problem!  Head them off at the pass by protecting your car by having a professional install a clear bra vinyl wrap, applying a fresh clear coat to the paint, or even something as simple as a coat of wax polish.  And make sure to wash your car on a regular basis with professional grade supplies at home, or through a professional auto body detailing service. More of a visual learner who needs some video tutorials? No problem!  We’ve selected some of the best picks from YouTube’s Car Vloggers to share with you: Chemical Guys: Bird Poop Cleanup: Ammo NYC: Removing Bird Poop From Car Paint: Ammo NYC: Step by Step Guide to Detailing Your Car: Forensic Detailing Channel: How to Polish a Car for Beginners:

Happy Earth Day from All of us here at Classic Auto Group! Toyota is focused on working to make a better planet by focusing on environmentally sustainable solutions from design concepts all the way to manufacturing and distribution.  Toyota of North America has dedicated efforts to building an environmentally responsible program around four basic focus points: Carbon, Water, Materials, Biodiversity. more Carbon Toyota is making concerted efforts to reduce CO2 emissions from vehicles by improving fuel efficiency, increasing hybrid technology, and electrification.  On the manufacturing and logistics side, Toyota employes innovative energy initiatives which cut fuel and energy consumption and increase use of renewable energies.  By introducing an 8.79 megawatt solar array at the Plano Texas facility, Toyota expects this system will provide approximately a third of the power needed for the new headquarters facilities. Water Thanks to updates in the manufacturing process, each year the Toyota company uses fewer gallons of water during vehicle production.  The company places special focus on water-stressed areas sch as California, Texas, and Mexico by finding new ways to recycle and reuse water, and make a little bit go a long way.  Toyota Manufacturing in Baja is the first Toyota plant in North America to use the MBR and RO system to conserve water and ensure efficient usage and storage while operating in limited water availability. Materials Toyota has maintained and exceeded efforts to recycle excess materials at all locations, and is even mindful to recycle waste when building new facilities.  They have also reduced use of chemicals thanks to efforts such as the ones by engineering specialist Dawn Ng’s efficient use of reduced cleaning solvent on painting vehicle bumpers.  These are just some of the efforts the Toyota team has put forth into reducing waste, recycling materials, and producing more efficient manufacturing facilities. Biodiversity Each time Toyota constructs new facilities for sales and manufacturing, they aim to minimize destruction and disruption of natural habitats.  They also work diligently to proactively support local pollinators and preserve native species, and restore the unique balance of local ecosystems.  In fact, they even partnered with NEEF to contribute a $200,000 grant to the Parnership for Regional Invasive Species Management. In 2015, Toyota also announced the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, a company wide goal of moving towards Zero CO2 Emissions and establishing an eco-harmonious relationship between nature and the Toyota company.  You can visit the website to learn more about the Six Challenges and their eco milestones from now through 2030 and beyond.

The Next-Generation Toyota Tundra is Here, and It’s going to Rock Your World! Backed by the trusted quality, durability, and reliability you’ve come to expect from Toyota, the Tundra is blazing a new trail in the full-size truck vehicle category.  It features improved towing and payload capabilities, an all-new multimedia infotainment system designed right here in North America, a spacious and comfortable interior cabin, and two new powertrain options: A twin-turbo V6 option, and a hybrid twin-turbo V6 option, both with a 10-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission.  The new 10-speed transmission features updated technology such as sequential shift mode, uphill/downhill shift logic, and Tow/Haul driving modes! more But the real showstopper is the iFORCE MAX Powertrain, boasting 437 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and 583lb-ft of torque at just 2,400 rpm.  The new Power Control Unit (PCU) is employed to ensure excellent durability and thermal performance from its 288V Sealed Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery located under the rear passenger seats.  Using either the SPORT or SPORT+ feature under drive mode increases power and responsiveness. In addition the EPA has estimated its fuel economy and efficiency at 18MPG city and 24MPG highway for 2WD SR models, and all other 2WD models at 18MPG city, 24MPG highway. And its interior and exterior design are built to match and exude an air of power, strength, and performance!  The design team paid great attention to detail using only premium materials and fabrics inside, and achieving a balance of rugged, tough design with sleek, modern angular lines.  It certainly adds up and delivers a stunning aesthetic indicative of its strength, durability, quality, and reliability. “Our design goal from the beginning was to create the most powerful, rugged and sophisticated looking full-size pickup that will take Tundra to a whole new level,” said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty Design Research. “Because recreation and an outdoor lifestyle are at the core of Toyota truck identity, we set out to create a muscular, chiseled and athletic design that also looks like it could handle the toughest towing demands.” In short, it’s a truck made by Truck People, for Truck People, and it’s all designed, engineered, and built right here in the United States of America! Check out the incredible features and amenities here, and then stop by our dealership to spec one out for yourself!  Our trusted and knowledgeable sales associates are ready to help get you behind the wheel ASAP. The All New 2022 Toyota Tundra Features: Standard i-FORCE 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Produces up to 389 hp, 479 lb.-ft. Available i-FORCE MAX Powertrain Produces 437 hp, 583 lb.-ft. Up to 12,000-Pound Maximum Towing Capacity Available 14-inch Touchscreen Highlights All-New Audio Multimedia System Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Active Safety Standard on all Grades EPA Estimated Fuel Economy 20 mpg Combined on i-FORCE 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 2WD Models You get all of that state-of-the-art technology, sleek modern design, powerful towing capacity, and unparalleled fuel economy starting at $35,950 MSRP!  Stop by Classic Toyota’s dealerships to spec one out for yourself with custom features and designed to your personal styling.

Later this year, Toyota Motor North America is launching its all-new 2023 bZ4X Battery Electric SUV! If that wasn’t exciting enough, the ChargePoint, Inc company, a leading EV charging network in the US, is partnering with Toyota to create a network of public and home use charging options for vehicle owners.  Check out our post to learn more about it! more What is the Toyota bZX4 all about? Toyota is challenging its Electric Vehicle market competitors with the all-new, stylish and stunning bZ4X electric battery car with 250 mile manufacturer-estimated range per full charge.  Joining the rest of the exclusive Toyota offerings of EVs including hydrogen fuel cell electrics, electric hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles, the bZ4x is in good company! Toyota’s vision for a carbon neutral future is well on its way to success with more than 24% of the company’s sales coming from EV purchases.  We don’t know about you, but that certainly sparks our interest in alternative fuel vehicles. With striking aerodynamic styling reminiscent of the impressive hammerhead shark, the sleek silhouette is a real eye catcher on the open road as well as just being parked in your driveway.  It’s edgy, futuristic, and built to modern day design aesthetics. The spacious interior has 5 USB ports for your convenience, Qi wireless charging, a fixed panoramic moonroof, digital keys you can control and share with loved ones from the convenience of a tap of your smartphones, and so much more!  You’ll find a wide array of intuitive driver assistance for safe, confident driving such as sound-proofing glass, wind-noise reduction features to reduce road noise, and plenty of off-road performance and automated features.  The upgraded Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of advanced safety technology includes omni-directional crash-response systems, guardrail detection, improved daytime and low-light detection for cyclists/pedestrians/motorcycles, improved and enhanced Lane recognition, and other incredible standard features. Is the bZ4X really making an impact on the environment? Toyota has gone to great lengths to ensure the manufacturing and road use of the bZ4X is environmentally friendly.  From the start, production involves a meticulous process which eliminates contamination of battery components and ensures greater durability.  The car includes redundant monitoring systems for battery voltage, current, and temperature which detect anormal heating and signs of wear to prevent overheating and damage.  By incorporating a high-resistance coolant circulation system, it can more easily prevent short circuits and related fires even if there’s a coolant leak.  In addition, the high-capacity battery pack is designed to fit within the floor of the body frame, allowing for more protection and insulation in event of a collision. How do I charge my car on the road? Great news!  ChargePoint has an incredible network all across North America with Level 2 (25mi/hour charge rate) and Level 3 (DC Fast) chargers installed.  They also participate in a vast network of roaming partner station, too.  This means that 80% of charging spaces in the US can be accessed by bZ4X drivers conveniently and easily.  And with the help of the convenient mobile Toyota App, you can find, use and pay for your charge top-ups with ease.  It’s a match made in heaven.  Those looking to charge at home can grab a ChargePoint Home Flex Charger. What are the benefits to home charging with an official ChargePoint Home Flex Charger? Customers who own a bX4X will have the option to purchase an official ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 Charger from any participating Toyota Dealership.  These custom ChargePoint Home Flex chargers are Energy Star certified, wifi enabled, indoor/outdoor installation options, and even have a 23 foot charge cable for convenient recharging no matter where you park!  As an added bonus, you’ll get 25 miles of range per hour of charging and reach a full charge overnight.  That’s right, it will charge your car up to nine times faster than the typical standard electrical outlet would.  Talk about the convenience of modern living, this just can’t be beat! How do I install this special ChargePoint Home Flex charger at home? We’re glad you asked!  Qmerit’s service technicians can guide you through the process of locating a certified EV charge point installer.  Give them a call for a free initial quote and they’ll help you find all the right services to get your home charger installed.  It’s easy as pie!

It’s been a very long winter, and we’re ready for Spring as much as the next person!  We cannot wait to step outside and embrace the beautiful warm sunshine.  As you may notice in the next few weeks, there are signs of spring all over the Greater Chicago Area!  The planters are blooming along Michigan Avenue with their trademark tulips.  Cherry Blossoms are beginning to unfurl and your social media feed is flooded with pink blossom themed selfies.  You’re spotting cyclists out on the roads and nature trails and even on the bike lanes on major roadways. Yes, folks, it’s time to bid farewell to our frigid pal, Winter.  And there’s no time like the present to make sure your car is in tip top shape for all your Spring Break adventures! more Replace wiper blades and apply hydrophobic coating to your windshield. April Showers bring May Flowers, but it’s important to have clear visibility as you drive if you’d like to see the sights of springtime blooming around you! Detail your vehicle’s interior and give your car professional car wash. If your car has a leather or leather-blend interior, it’s important to condition the fabric so it doesn’t crack or peel during hot weather months.  Get into all the nooks and crannies to clear out the grit, grime, and grave that accumulated over winter!  Bringing your car to a professional washing facility will also help remove the accumulated salt and muck from winter weather.  Help keep it protected through rainy days by requesting it also get a fresh buff with top quality car wax. Check your vehicle’s belts and hoses. Pop open the hood and take a look inside and ensure that all of the belts, hoses, and connections are in tip-top shape. Cold and freezing temperatures can cause the rubber and plastics to crack or split, thus weakening their ability to move properly.  Replace anything that looks worn, torn or damagd before you hit the road and end up with a seized engine. Check and Test your A/C. Don’t wait until the sweltering heat is already in full-force before you test your Air Conditioner.  Make sure the fans and cooling unit are working properly before the summer gets here, and get it tuned-up and repaired if not! Check those tires. Be sure that your tires have been inspected for cracks, tears, leaks, worn treads, and proper inflation.  Refer to your vehicle manufacturer’s manual for proper inflation rate, as well as the listing on the physical tire itself to ensure they're at the right pressure.  Make sure that you get a tire rotation as well, to ensure that your wheels have even wear and tear.  Replace any worn or damaged tires or have leaks patched. Check your vehicle’s light bulbs. Properly working light bulbs and LEDs can increase your visibility during foggy, hazy weather and rain. Replace any interior and exterior lights that are blinking or not working. Change your cabin filter. Pollen allergies are at an all-time high yet again this year, ugh!  A fresh, clean cabin air filter is a great way to clean the air and reduce pollen and allergens in your car’s interior. Bring your car in for a general tune-up and check-up. Don’t ignore your dashboard lights. Don’t wait until your car breaks down or strands you on your summer road trip!  Get things taken care of now, so you can enjoy all of your upcoming road trips with confidence.

Spring is only a week or so away, and that means the school year is starting to wind down! We thought it would be a great time to highlight helpful hints and pointers for student-friendly cars.  With many senior students doing college preparations, getting their acceptance letters,  we know that many families are doing their best to plan ahead for the upcoming travel and moving expenses of college.  Let our helpful blog post guide you to finding the best car that fits your student’s needs and your family’s budget!  It’s all right here on today’s blog. more Today’s modern student needs a lot of room in their vehicle to pack up their friends, hobbies, and technology for road trips, weekend getaways, sporting events, and more.  So we’re going to share our picks for the best models that can accommodate their needs. Let Classic Auto Group help you and your student navigate your way through the sea of choices.  Our trusted technicians and salespeople can guide you to the right choice for your budget and travel needs!  You can feel confident and comfortable that you’ll be able to find a safe vehicle in your budget range, and send your teen to college in the best option. Classic Auto Group’s Recommended Cars for College Students The Toyota RAV4 is great for students but especially so for the student commuters or athletes.  This SUV is perfect with plenty of cargo space for equipment, and ample seating room for passengers like friends or family.  It’s great in all seasons, making it the perfect option for traveling back and forth to campus daily, or for those who live off-campus to make the long trek home from wherever they may be.  The multi-terrain settings and multi-link rear suspension make it a must have for the student with a serious case of wanderlust.  They can take the road trip of their dreams and search for their next adventure, and parents can breathe easy knowing their college-bound kiddo is safe and secure on the road. The Toyota Camry is a trusted name in safety and reliability for decades, and there’s a reason the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has given it a 5-star overall rating.  It’s got excellent fuel economy, a comfortable and stylish interior cabin, state of the art infotainment systems, and a slew of modern safety features in newer models including pre-collision pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, blind spot monitors, and much more.  It’s easy to park just about anywhere, which makes it a great option for off-campus housing and street parking as well as crowded campus parking lots.  And there’s plenty of trunk space for hauling baskets of clothing to do laundry back at mom-and-dad’s on the weekends. The Toyota Prius is ever growing in popularity amongst younger drivers, thanks to its fuel efficient hybrid models, all-electric options, and stylish sedan or hatchback options.  The Prius Hybrid gets an average of 50 miles per gallon, making it a great option for college students’ limited budgets and especially with rising fuel prices.  Current models come with 10 standard airbags and the Star Safety System (6 advanced safety features: VSC, ABS, TRAC, EBD, and SST.)  The fold-down seats make it easy to transport just about anything whether your student is going away with friends for the weekend or traveling back home for holiday break.  Newer models also have wireless smartphone charging, making the hassle of searching for charge cables a thing of the past.  It’s modern styling and features make it perfect for the eco conscious student who is also looking to drive in style. Let us help you find the right car to fit your budget!  If purchasing or leasing a new car isn’t right for your finances, our trusted employees can help you find the pre-owned model that’s right for you and your student without breaking the bank!

We’re back with another edition of our Classic Auto Group Decoder!  Since buying and fixing cars isn’t a part of our daily or even weekly lives, we know that it might seem a little daunting when you come in to shop or bring your car in for service. That's' why we’re helping with our Automotive Terminology posts, to help you better understand industry lingo and the inner workings of your vehicle. more We hope that these posts instill a sense of confidence within you so that you can stay in the know!  You’ll be well-prepared for your next car purchase by knowing exactly what does what and features that best suit your needs.  And you’ll be armed with knowledge enough to chat with your local service technician about the ins-and-outs of your maintenance appointments.  It’s all right here on today’s blog; today’s topic is the Suspension System in your car. So what even does your car’s suspension system do? Allow us to break it down for you.  This system consists of tires, tire air pressure, coil springs, rods and linkages, joints and bearings and bushings, and shock absorbers or struts.  These work together as a system of protective, shock-absorbing components which ensure your car drives safely and smoothly, absorbing bumps and impacts from roadways and other kinetic energy.  It supports the vehicle’s weight, absorbs and dampens the shock, and stabilizes the drive to keep it calm and comfortable. How to Spot an issue in the Suspension System and What Should You Do? The suspension system can take a lot of wear and tear as you drive, because that’s its job, of course!  Still, as with anything, if you hit enough potholes, bumps, lumps, or curbs it will eventually lead to some regular maintenance and repairs.  In addition, if you get into any accidents or fender-benders, even minor ones, those can also take their toll on your suspension and alignment. On average you’ll need to replace the shocks/struts every 50k and 100k miles, but sometimes they may need repairs or service in between.  And likewise, if your area has smooth roadways and flat surfaces, they may last a little longer than the average. You’ll notice it’s time to bring your car in for a service appointment when you notice the following: Your vehicle drifts a bit whenever you turn or drive on a curve. You are noticing it’s not a smooth ride and feel the bumps, or as if you’re driving the “Flintstone mobile” with rocks for wheels. You notice your car pulls to one side or the other as you drive, especially at higher speeds. You notice fluid leaks, oil, or grease accumulation on your shocks/struts. Your tires are wearing unevenly due to poor alignment and damaged suspension. You notice your vehicle frame is sinking a little bit. You notice unusual noises; a broken strut or shock may have a clinking, clunking, or knocking sound when you hit a bump. If you notice any of these things in your vehicle, call one of our service technicians right away to have it serviced.  It’s not just about a smooth ride, it’s also what keeps your vehicle balanced and stable while driving!  The suspension system is a vital safety component on your car, and it’s dangerous to drive with worn or broken shock absorbers and increases your risk of accident. Some Important Phrases and Definitions to know: Adjustable suspension A suspension that offers driver-selectable damper (and sometimes spring) firmness settings to suit varying conditions and personal preferences. Auto-leveling suspension A suspension that adjusts the height of the vehicle so that its rear stays even with the front when cargo is carried; some systems offer multiple height settings for off-road, normal and high-speed operation. Ball joints Movable joints in the steering linkage and suspension system of a vehicle that permit rotating movement in any direction between the parts that are joined. CV joints Constant velocity joints, which are located on either end of the drive axles and transmit engine power while enabling full steering and suspension movement. Black accordion boots cover and protect these joints and hold lubricant. Stabilizer bar Sometimes called an anti-roll or anti-sway bar. A device that connects the left and right sides of a suspension to limit body roll in turn Suspension fluid A fluid used in suspension systems that are hydraulically adjustable. Suspension geometry The relationship between the placement of the mounting points for each of a vehicles suspension components.

Join us in helping our local veterans. Next time you shop - think of vets in need & pick up some extras. more How to Help: Donate money at coolministries.org/veterans-assistance/ 2. Donate time at coolministries.org/volunteer-opportunities/ 3. Donate essentials at 800 W. Glen Flora Avenue, Waukegan 10am - 2pm M-F

For most people, buying and selling cars is not a part of their daily or even weekly routine!  As a result, the process for figuring out exactly what you need and want can be a little overwhelming. We get it!  And we are here to help alleviate some of the stress with our Classic Auto Group Decoder.  That’s right, we’re shining a spotlight on some key terminology and phrasing most commonly used in the industry so that our customers can feel equipped with confidence.  By using our handy-dandy guide to automotive terminology, you’ll be able to “talk shop” like the best in the business.  So keep reading on to learn more about key phrases and vocabulary of the industry before you embark on your car buying journey. more Today we’re going to cover some key points on the topic of financing and leasing a vehicle.    We hope that these pointers will help you feel more confident in understanding “the fine print” of your leasing and financing agreements.  You’ll be able to drive off the lot and on your way home in your new or leased vehicle with a sense of security that you’ve done all your research thoroughly! How To Prepare For Leasing a Vehicle Do your research. Make a list of your must-haves when it comes to your Daily Driver Vehicle.  Know what style of vehicle you’re looking for (Sedan, SUV, Truck, etc.)  Look at the different price points for the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle and needs, and explore the options available to you in a reasonable range. Thoroughly research the pros and cons of each feature, option, and design.  Take some test drives of each type to see what feels most comfortable for you. Set a budget. Be sure to calculate your personal budget expenses to calculate the costs of leasing, insuring, and operating your intended vehicle.  There may be specific fees and costs associated with the leasing agreement at the time of signing.  In addition, you’ll need items such as comprehensive coverage, gap insurance, or wear-and-tear coverage.  Be sure to budget these into your monthly cost estimates! Learn car leasing terminology. Make sure you read today’s handy guide of vocabulary words thoroughly so you can more easily understand the terms of your leasing agreement and payment plans.  Figure out if you have a “Closed-End Lease” or an “Open-End Lease,” and be sure to read all of the fine print before signing. Explore your options for returning the car or keeping it at the end of your lease. Many lessees prefer to trade-in their lease for a newer model, but others prefer to extend the lease term or even purchase the car outright.  Two to three months before your lease ends, you’ll want to explore your options and see what best fits your budget and lifestyle.  If you’re returning your vehicle or extending the lease, you may be subject to inspection for your vehicle’s condition as per terms and conditions of your lease. Key Terms to Know When Shopping for Leased Vehicles Acquisition fee Also known as a "bank fee," an "administrative fee" or an "assignment fee." For a vehicle lease, a fee charged by the leasing company at the inception of the lease that is intended to cover a variety of administrative costs, such as obtaining a credit report, verifying insurance coverage, checking the accuracy and completeness of the lease documentation, and entering the lease into its data and accounting systems. APR Annual Percentage Rate. The cost of credit (i.e., the interest rate) expressed as a yearly rate. Cap reduction Capital reduction. In a vehicle lease, any trade-in amount, cash down payment or rebate amount that reduces the cost of the vehicle being leased (its "capitalized cost"). Drive-off fees Also referred to as "Total Due at Signing." The total cost that must be paid by the lessee at the inception of a vehicle lease, which typically includes the first months lease payment, any security deposit required by the leasing company, any acquisition fee charged by the leasing company, any documentation fees charged by the dealer, and various state registration fees. Incentive Any kind of financial assistance from a vehicle manufacturer that, by reducing either the net price or the cost of financing/leasing, motivates customers to buy/lease a new vehicle. The most common incentives are customer cash rebates, low-interest financing and leases that are subsidized by the manufacturer. Mileage allowance In a vehicle lease, the number of miles the lessee is permitted to drive over the term of the lease without incurring an excess mileage penalty. Money factor Also referred to as a "lease factor" or "lease fee." An auto leasing industry term for expressing the interest rate used to calculate the monthly lease payment, and equal to the leases APR divided by 2,400. (For example, an APR of 7.2% equals a money factor of 0.0033.) Payoff amount Also called the "buyout amount." The amount that, at any specified time during the term of a vehicle lease or loan, is required to be paid in order to discharge the remaining obligation. Purchase option The right given to a vehicle lessee to purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease term for an amount equal to the vehicles residual value. Residual value A vehicle leasing companys assumption of what a vehicle will be worth at the end of the lease, which is a factor used to determine the monthly lease payment. (The higher the residual value, the lower the monthly payment.) If you have any questions about leasing and financing a vehicle, we’re here to help you.  Just give us a call and we’ll get you out on the road in the car of your dreams in no time flat!

Hey there friends and neighbours, we’re here with our beloved community calendar for the Chicago area!  You’ll find a lot of great activities and events to enjoy over the next few weeks, all just a short drive away.  Check it out on today’s blog. more Today from 12PM to 2PM at the College of Lake County, enjoy a lecture with a panel of guests for CLC Lake County’s History Makers: State of the Black Male: Changing the Narrative event over Zoom. This evening from 6:30PM to 9PM at Zumbier, enjoy LIVE Trivia! BYO Food or order delivery in. Tomorrow, February 4th, at Tony’s Fresh Market from 2PM to 6PM in Waukegan is the Job Fair! Learn more about it here. On February 4th at the Genesee Theatre, enjoy a wild, wacky, madcap evening of musical comedy for Guys on Ice starting from 7PM through 9PM. Check it out here. On February 5th from 12PM to 2PM at the Dandelion Gallery & Studio, bring a friend or your kiddo and enjoy a Love inspired evening of Block Art. Learn more at Dandelion Gallery & Studio’s site. On February 5th from 7:30PM to 9PM at the Three Brothers Theatre on Stage 115, enjoy a performance of “When It Comes We Can Worry Then” for a lovely evening of theatre. On february 6th from 12PM to 5PM enjoy an R&B Brunch with tickets ranging from $20-$50. Book your spot now for a day out in Chicago with your friends! On February 10th enjoy a Galentine Party hosted by Olson’s Ace Hardware in Park Ridge!  You can stop by for a fun filled evening of crafting and decor inspiration with your friends.  It’s a DIY extravaganza with a Sip & Shop to boot! Event is from 5 to 7 and you can get tickets here. On February 12th, get a little rest and relaxation with Gentle Yoga for Terrible Times at this free event hosted via Zoom! Click here to learn more and select a date; participation is limited to 500 person capacity login. On February 12th and February 13th at 10AM at Olson’s Ace Hardware, come on out for a free Kid’s Workshop creating Succulent Plant Valentines! On February 19th, enjoy the “Intro to PLants” workshop from 11AM to 12:30PM in a free class with a 20% off discount included on all purchases that day. Click here to register to learn how to be your best plant-parent self! On February 20th head on over to The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire for a rousing rendition of West Side Story. February 20th is Lady Day from 3PM to 5PM at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center in Arlington Heights, chronicling the life and music of the illustrious Billie Holiday at Emerson’s Bar and Grill. On  February 24th, get in touch with your inner child at the “Adults Night at the Trampoline Park” in Chicago from 7:30PM.  Tickets range from $21-$30 and you can book it right here. On February 26th, the Second Annual Black Excellence Awards Gala is taking place from 5PM to 8PM. Learn more about it here.

It’s February and we’re really excited about it, because that means the Chicago Auto Show is just around the corner!  From February 12th through the 21st, you can stop by McCormick Place Convention Center to experience the best, brightest, and most spectacular new advancements in the automotive industry!  We cannot wait to see all the exciting new technologies, concept cars, and incredible vehicles. more What You Need to Know Before You Go: The event runs February 12th through February 20th from 10AM to 10PM, and on February 21st from 10AM to 8PM. Tickets for the auto show are available online for $10-$15 (priced by age) and children under 3 are free with accompanying paid adult admission.  Group and school discounts are available! This year, there are some additional COVID-19 precautions in place to keep everyone safer: masks are required for everyone over the age of 2, and they must cover the mouth and nose; proof of vaccination is required for entry into the food and beverage and eating areas (this includes photo ID for those 16+.) Thursday February 17th and Friday February 18th be sure to bring some food to the Grand Concourse Ticket Lobby for the Chicago Auto Show Food Drive. And check back here for updates on food and beverage vendors to plan your day. Click here to enter to win a Grand Prize Package to the 2022 Auto Show! What We’re Most Excited About: This is one of the highlights of our year here at Classic Auto Group! Our staff at Classic Kia are extremely excited to check out all the amazing vehicles that Kia will be sharing this year!  They’ll be debuting the 2023 Kia Sportage, along with some other fantastic vehicles in production like the EV6, K5, Forte, Carnival, Soul, Stinger, and more! Check out the full list here. Head over to the Kia Display between 10AM to 6PM for the Kia Test Drive events. Our staff at Classic Toyota are looking forward to all of the great vehicles that Toyota will be showing off this year, too.  This year we’re anticipating the debut of the 2023 bZ4X, 2023 Sequoia, and the 2022 Tundra.  And that’s not all!  Toyota is also displaying selections from the production line such as the GR86, GR Supra, Corolla Cross, Venza, and the Prius. Check out the full lineup here. Where to Stay: The Marriott Marquis Chicago and Hyatt Regency McCormick Place are the official hotel partners for the Chicago Auto Show. Additional hotels include: Chicago South Loop Hotel Congress Plaza Hotel Best Western Grant Park Hotel Le Meridien Essex Chicago The Buckingham Hotel The Jaslin Hotel Villa Dubois Guest House McCormick Place Guest House The Blackstone, Autograph Collection Where to Eat Nearby: The Fine Print Restaurant Third Star Sixes & Eights Savor Chicago Connie’s Pizza Il Culaccino Woven + Bound Restaurant Piezano’s Pizza & Pasta VU Rooftop Bar Chicago Oyster House Mustard Seed Kitchen Apolonia What’s To Do Nearby: There’s also a lot of fabulous things to do nearby the area if you’re making a whole fun trip out of the event!  Check out our great picks for other activities to explore in Chicago near McCormick Place. Aerie Crown Theater The Art Institute of Chicago Tommy Gun’s Garage Millennium Park Chicago Cloud Gate The Field Museum Hamilton: The Exhibition Soldier Field Secret Food Tours Chicago Prairie Avenue Historic District The Magic Parlour The Magnificent Mile

Happy Lunar New Year! 我们祝你幸福，万事如意 Wish you happiness and all the best in the Year of the Tiger! Check out our picks for local restaurants, recipes, Lunar New Year traditions, books, and movies on today's blog. more February marks the beginning of Lunar New Year celebrations for the Year of the Tiger!  This week,  Asian-Americans in the US will be celebrating with their families, just like many others around the globe in China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, North Korea, South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines! Each country has their own version of the festival’s celebrations, but at the central core of each of them is Family.  Today we’ll be focusing mainly on the Chinese celebrations for Lunar New Year, but we encourage you to explore other global versions of these celebrations with your family, as they are equally important and wonderful! Here are some key elements you will see in Lunar New Year celebrations: Dragon - Much like many of the other symbols in Chinese new year, this also represents prosperity and good fortune, as well as a cultural symbol that the Chinese people are descendants of the  Dragon. Click here to learn more about the festival origins! Duilian - These are two vertical banners usually placed on either side of a doorway which announce wishes for good fortune, success, and happiness in the coming year: - Wan Shi Ru Yi: May everything be as you wish - Da Zhan Hong Tu: May you achieve your great plan - Sheng Yi Xing Long: May your business be prosperous Fish - Whole fish is a traditional dish served on New Years, and it is considered quite lucky.  It is customary to leave the head, tail and bones in one piece symbolizing a good beginning and end to the year. Flowers - The Plum Blossom and the Water Narcissus (or white daffodil) are both prevalent in Chinese New Year celebrations.  Plum blossoms represent growth, hope, and courage.  The Narcissus plants are representative of good fortune and prosperity, and if the blossoms open precisely on New Year Day, it is said to bring good luck all year long! Lanterns - On the 15th day of Lunar New Year celebrations is the Lantern festival. Red - This hue is considered an auspicious color in Chinese culture, often used in decor, gift giving, clothing, and more.  It represents life, vitality, good fortune, and prosperity.  Red envelopes, or hong bao, are envelopes filled with money given to unemployed single folks and young children Lunar New Year Crafts for Kids Make some dragon crafts with the kiddos at home like these from Red Ted Art. Chinese dragon puppets would make a great addition for storytime! Hang up some handcrafted Chinese Paper Lanterns to get festive! Make a family friendly “T is for Tiger” Felt or Paper Craft with Printable Pattern Whip Up a Culinary Treat for the Lunar New Year Shochu Punch Chou Dao Miu Pea Sprouts Lunar New Year Dumplings Whole Fish with Ginger Sesame Oil Spicy Dan Dan Noodles Peking Duck with Honey Glaze and Five Spice Chinese Restaurants to Support in the Greater Chicago Area China Garden Restaurant in Waukegan Ming Toy Restaurant in Waukegan China Kitchen in North Chicago Hunan Sixth Happiness North Chicago Lung Fung Restaurant in Zion Win Win Restaurant & Bar in Waukegan Lao Sze Chuan in Highland Park House of Szechwan in Des Plaines Lao Sze Chuan in Skokie Chengdu Impression Restaurant in Chicago Mrs. Gu Skewers Hot Pot in Chicago Laojiumen Hotpot Chicago MCCB Chicago Xi’an Cuisine in Chicago Supporting Asian Creators Year Round We believe in supporting the AAPI community all year round and not just on special holidays or months! To celebrate all global Asian cultures that participate in Lunar New Year, we’ve compiled a wonderful list of books and films by Asian creators for you to enjoy! Fantastic Books by Asian Authors for Audio/EBooks Make sure to load up your e-reader or tablet with some of these great books before your next road trip! You’ll find a slew of incredible tales written by both new and treasured voices in the writing community. Beautiful Country by Qian Julie Wang Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin Amy Wu and the Perfect  Bao by Kat Zhang Land of Big Numbers by Te-Ping Chen How Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam Zhang A Pho Love Story by Loan Le Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park Stargazing by Jen Wang The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo Home Remedies: Stories by Xuan Juliana Wang Front Desk by Kelly Yang Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi Finding Julie Kim by Ellen Oh A River of Stars by Vanessa Huo Severance by Ling Ma The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim Luck of the Titanic by Stacey Lee American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang Movies to Stream Starring Asian Americans and AAPI Talent: Raya and the Last Dragon Over the Moon The Wish Dragon The Guardian Brothers Next Gen Ne Zha Go Back To China Front Cover It’s Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong Lucky Grandma Minari Crazy Rich Asians Shang Chi and the Legend of the 10 Rings Always Be My Maybe To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before