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Get your car Road Trip Ready and prepared for driving in the hot summer sun!  We’re sharing our tips for recommended service appointments and check-ups you should make on your vehicle before hitting the road. Long car rides can put a lot of wear and tear and stress on your vehicle, so it is important to have it in tip-top shape before you start driving.  Remember that residual heat from roadways, being parked in hot spots, and generally running your engine for long periods of time can all have an effect on your vehicle’s longevity. more Let’s take a look at how to be best prepared for just about anything so you can drive to your heart's content and arrive safely at your destination for maximum summer fun and low-stress travel. This may seem obvious but first and foremost: Stop ignoring your dashboard lights. Bring your car in for a general tune-up and check-up and get a reading on all those blinking lights you keep trying to ignore.  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 day-trips and vacations without any added stress. 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! Change Oil and filter Each vehicle make/model will differ in mileage requirements for oil changes, but most are between 3,000 and 6,000 miles between an oil change service.  Be sure that you bring your car in at the appropriate mileage markers especially if you’ve been making frequent drives or a long journey.  It will ensure your vehicle runs more efficiently in hot weather, reducing the chance of a seized engine or fuel inefficiency. Clean and/or replace air filter Summer heat means running the AC frequently, and that can lead to a need to replace your air filter in just one or two months as opposed to the usual 3.  Make sure you’re regularly checking the filter and cleaning it as needed, or replacing it earlier if you’ve been doing a lot of driving this summer.  It will ensure that your AC runs properly and can consistently cool your vehicle. Check Tire Air Pressure and Rotate Tires. Replace any tires with worn treads. Check your Spare Tire/Donut and replace if necessary. After several day-trips or even a lengthy drive to your vacation destination, your car tires are going to have seen their fair share of wear-and-tear.  Check the tread depth for signs of wear or uneven tread; replace or patch any damaged tires.  Check the tire pressure before you depart on your next adventure, and especially with any 10 degree temperature change outside. Inflate them to the recommended PSI from the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure you bring your car in for a wheel alignment check and have the tires rotated to ensure even wear. Top off Fluids While it’s important to keep your car’s fluids in check on the regular and with each seasonal maintenance, it’s imperative that during the summer months you especially keep an eye on your Coolant and motor oil levels. An increase in summer travel along with high-heat can mean these fluids are depleted quicker than average, and the last thing you want is to be stranded on the highway with a seized engine.  Make sure that you have Antifreeze/Coolant topped off as well as the appropriate oil before you leave on a long trip. Check all of the belts and hoses. Cold and freezing temperatures of wintertime can cause the rubber and plastics to crack or split, thus weakening their ability to move properly. You don’t want to hit the road during the warm weather and find out your vehicle has winter damage!    Pop open the hood and take a look inside and ensure that all of the belts, hoses, and connections are in tip-top shape. Save yourself a lot of money and aggravation by ensuring all belts and hoses are replaced before they cause your vehicle to stall or your engine seizes. Check those spark plugs! The spark plugs aid in combustion of air and fuel.  Although this part is one of the most durable elements of a vehicle, you really should change them every 30,000 to 90,000 miles depending on your vehicle. Check the manufacturer’s website or manual for specific timing requirements.  Defective spark plugs can cause serious engine damage if not maintained properly.  If they cannot generate an adequate spark, your engine will lose power and efficiency, or worse it will cease to run.  If you notice your car is idling rough, you’re having trouble starting your vehicle, or you have an engine misfire, it’s high time to bring your car in for a spark plug change.  Additionally, your car may have difficulty accelerating and maintaining that speed, leading to poor fuel economy.  So, don’t skip this step especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of long distance driving! Detail your vehicle’s interior. We’ve already covered the importance of regular car washing in the spring to clean away road salt and grime, but the interior fabrics need a little TLC as well!  Make sure you get a good shampoo and vacuum on all of your car’s fabric.  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 gravel!  You want to bring back memories of your trip and maybe a little sand, not take a whole season’s worth of muck along for the ride there and back! Is there a topic you wish to see covered in depth on a future service post update? Let us know in the comments on our social media!

The best memories are the road trips with mysterious detours, ample adventure, and loads of surprises, but it’s still a good idea to plan ahead and be prepared for anything!  Today, we’re sharing our tips, tricks, and tools to plan the ultimate road trip!  You’ll be ready to face the unexpected head-on with confidence and reassurance, thanks to these helpful methods.  Discover new places, explore uncharted territories, and jump head first into the unknown on today’s blog. more Plan your road trip including lodging, fuel stations, snacks, and more with help from the RoadTrippers or other route planning apps. When it comes to plotting out our dream road trip, we love the ease and affordability of something as accessible as RoadTrippers. Create a custom road map to all the roadside attractions, national parks, and culinary delights you want with their online and app-based trip planners. Share the route with your friends and family by adding them to your plan, or creating a shared guide.  RoadTrippers allows you to add waypoints and calculate mileage so you can get as accurate budget planning and timelines as possible.  It’s great for planning meet-ups with friends or taking the road less traveled without stress.  Other helpful trip planning and fuel budgeting apps include: WanderLog Travel Planner, Waze, GasBuddy, TripIt. Build a Road Trip Box to keep you safe and sound on the road and prepared for emergencies. Choose a container such as a waterproof duffle bag or a hard-case toolbox and fill it to the brim with these indispensable tools and basics to get you through unexpected breakdowns, wrong turns, and weather issues: Fix-A-Flat Tire Sealant, Portable Air Compressors, Tire Plug and Puncture Kits, a set of Tow Straps, Road Flares and Warning Triangle Reflectors,  a solid First Aid Kit, a Portable/Rechargeable Car Battery Starter, a solar flashlight or handcrank flashlight, a basic screwdriver set, a basic socket wrench set, a set of pliers, a swiss army knife, zip ties, microfiber towels, extra windshield fluid, an extra bottle of motor oil for your vehicle’s make/model, thermal blankets, a gallon of distilled water, non-perishable food, and a set of jumper cables. Looking for some more ideas on how to assemble an easy road trip toolkit and why? We’re sharing this classic article from Jalopnik for more tips and tricks. Taking your furry friends and little pets along for the ride as a navigator? You’ll want to prep your vehicle to be as pet friendly as possible with these safe and helpful items to stow in with your luggage! Pack a pet-friendly emergency and first aid kit. Secure your pet in a travel friendly pet carrier or click them into a pet friendly seatbelt and harness. Download the BringFido and SniffSpot apps to ensure that you’ll always find a dog-friendly accommodation or local area play/exercise spot on the road!  Pack a portable pet bowl and collapsible water bowl or waterbottle for pets, along with plenty of their food and medication in a pet travel bag.  Plan to make frequent stops for potty breaks and activity breaks to ease your pets’ anxiety and keep them comfortable.  Always keep a copy of their important medical papers and records and vaccinations with you in case of emergencies.  Remember to look up leash laws in the area you’re traveling through or to, and keep extra leashes and poopy bags on hand!  Practice short drives and vehicle etiquette with your pet to ease their nerves and make the trip go smoothly. What do you take on your road trips to make the journey easier? Let us know in the comments and share some links to your favorite road trip and car-safety gadgets!

Today is NASCAR Day!  We’re taking a deep dive into the history of the sport, and a look at the lasting legacy of Bill France and his family on not just modern day race cars and motorsports, but also community impact and outreach! more Did you know the first NASCAR Race was held on a beach? Bill France Sr organized the first ever official NASCAR race on the sands of Daytona Beach Florida in 1948,  The 4.1 mile course was marked off with cones and flags, and was the birthplace of the motorsport we all know and love today!  What began on the shorelines and sands has grown into paved tracks, road courses, and dirt tracks with audiences of hundreds of thousands in the stands and world wide. Did you know that NASCAR Drivers Experience up to 6Gs of Force on their Bodies while racing? The high speeds required to complete the race circuit of NASCAR tracks generate an outstanding amount of energy and pressure. Racing at these extreme speeds while making tight turns is an immense strain on the human body.  Acceleration produces forces up to 2Gs, braking forces up to 5Gs, and cornering at 4 to 6Gs!  NASCAR drivers prepare for each race with immense physical conditioning and building up muscle strength in their necks, as well as extreme endurance for heat tolerance. Did you know that NASCAR has origins in Bootlegging and Stock Cars? Check out this amazing video on the Science of Stock Cars from Donut!  They’re starting NASCAR’s roots in stock car racing and their inaugural “stock division race” at the Charlotte Speedway in North Carolina. It’s a fascinating look into the history of racing and motorsports and the engineering behind car mods. And check out this video from the official NASCAR channel detailing seven generations of race cars in the sport.  It’s a real eye-opening exploration! Did you know that NASCAR has a special foundation and special outreach programs? We love supporting others in our community through efforts like the work of COOL Ministries, and we believe it’s incredibly important to lift others up.  So whenever we have an opportunity to highlight charitable giving and community outreach, we jump at the chance!  That’s why today’s blog is all about highlighting fellow automotive industry giants, NASCAR!  Did you know that NASCAR has its own foundation and outreach programs?  We’re going to tell you all about it, and we hope that you’ll consider sending in some support if you’re able! Founded in 2003 to bring the NASCAR community and its employees together in order to support children’s health and wellbeing all across the country!  It’s celebrated on the 3rd Friday in May every year.  Each NASCAR day, all the fans, sponsors and corporate partners, drivers, and celebrity supporters band together to fundraise for charitable children's organizations and the NASCAR Foundation.  It’s also a way for everyone in the racing industry to give back to their community of supporters! In 2006, Betty Jane France, wife of the late Bill France Jr, NASCAR’s former Chairman and CEO, began a long legacy of Humanitarian work by founding The NASCAR Foundation.  In addition, she also established the wonderful “Speediatrics” division of children’s health care units at Halifax Health in Daytona Beach and Homestead Hospital in South Florida.  Following the success of Speediatrics, she then went on to found the Speediatrics Children’s Fund to further efforts of children’s medical care across the entire US.  Last year was the 15th Anniversary of The NASCAR Foundation. Learn more about The NASCAR Foundation:

Partnerships with MIT, Stanford, Columbia, and others address some of the world’s greatest challenges, including aging society, climate change, and human understanding The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) recently announced the latest results from its collaborative research program with leading US academic institutions.  This initiative has funded $100 million of research, and more than 1250 paper submissions since its inception in 2016.  It’s one of the leading research initiatives and largest collaborative research programs by an automotive company across the globe! more “We are deeply satisfied with the results of our partnerships with this outstanding group of institutions and researchers,” said Eric Krotkov, who leads the university research program. “We believe that collaboration is the key to tackling society’s biggest challenges and are confident that this program will continue to achieve new breakthroughs.” In 2022, the program expanded to include an additional 21 university partnerships and 61 additional projects focused on energy and materials, human-centered AI tech, human interactive driving, advanced machine learning and robotics. Each project pairs a TRI researcher facilitating the research and development while working alongside a university team in an effort to foster collaboration and partnership between traditional academia and industry.  The program aims to increase innovative technologies and incentivize future generations to explore new processes and facilitate innovation and creativity. Last year, three papers won awards at the Robotics: Science and Systems Conference (RSS), which included program highlights such as the one facilitated by TRI and The Columbia Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Lab led by Computer Science Assistant PRofessor Shuran Song helped develop advanced robotic capabilities.  These included robotics arms which use an active airflow to manipulate deformable, non-rigid objects that can fold, bend, and change shape.  The program ran several successful tests to have robots fold laundry and manipulate flexible bags.  The team won a Best Paper Award at RSS 2022 thanks to their development of the Iterative Residual Policy Algorithm, which created a learning framework for repeatable tasks with complex dynamics. Working with TRI has been an incredible experience. The partnership has allowed us to leverage industry-level resources, which have been critical in driving our research forward,” said Shuran Song. “I am honored to have the opportunity to work with such a great team, and I am excited to see what we can accomplish together in the future.” Laboratories led by Professor Thomas Jaramillo of Stanford University and Associate Scientist Michaela Burke Stevns at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) have been working alongside the TRI researcher in order to create data-driven theories of catalyst durability. They’re using a novel experimental technique which enables real-time measurement of even the smallest amounts of dissolving materials.  This assists advancement of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen electrolyzers which require catalyst materials that use expensive, rare elements such as platinum and radium.  This project will help improve fuel cell catalyst durability. And research led by Professor Ilya Kolmanovsky’s team at the University of Michigan which developed a governor architecture that could be used to speed up the execution time of a model predictive control (MPC) control system solution.  The TRI researchers collaborated with this project to create a solution for Toyota Motors which solves a vehicle controller problem. “I believe our project is an example of how TRI combines industry and academic knowledge, expertise, and capabilities to develop solutions that ultimately lead to real-world impact,” said Ilya Kolmanovsky. ”This is, without any doubt, one of the best research collaborations that I have ever had.” The program plans to expand and continue into 2024, building opportunities for additional research and advancement with high-risk, high-reward projects intended to foster key technologies for Toyota Motors going forward. Want to learn more about the Toyota Research Institute? Check out their page on Medium!

With several years of lockdowns and pandemic-related travel restrictions under our belts, most of us are itching to get out and make up for “lost time” with adventures and explorations like no other.  We’re ready to make new core memories and vacation experiences to last us a lifetime of looking back fondly!  Today, we’re sharing our picks for some seriously magical midwest destinations for stunning summer vacations you’ll talk about with loved ones for years to come.  See for yourself what wonders await you in the Midwest of these great United States. Let’s hit the road to summer fun and boundless adventures! more Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan This picture-perfect vacation destination has a plethora of activities and excitement no matter what your interests. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy traditional summer fun on the gorgeous sunny beaches and sky-high dunes, or they can delve into the wilds of the emerald green forests and sparkling inland lakes.  History buffs will love taking a look at local cultural and historical sites such as a lighthouse from 1871, historic Coast Guard Stations, and an incredible historic farm district and maritime village.  The area is home to the largest freshwater sand dunes in the world, and features a magnificent “ghost forest”, an area of trees that have been covered and uncovered by shifting sands of time.  Nature photographers will have a blast thanks to the sand dunes and their sweeping views across the lake, and searching out many species of birds and wildlife abound.  From hiking and biking to swimming and camping, there’s no shortage of fun at this spectacular destination. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin With miles and miles of windswept beaches, astoundingly impressive natural-carved rock formations, intricate sea caves, majestic marine wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, you’ll not soon forget your visit to Apostle Islands.  Whether you opt for a grand guided tour of the local lighthouses, a detailed narration of local history, and cruise, or you prefer to explore by bike or by foot on the many trails, there’s no shortage of natural wonder to enjoy.  Outdoorsy folks will enjoy the overnight camping sites and plentiful hiking trails!  There’s also plenty of kayaking, swimming, fishing, and other nature activities like quarry and cave exploration. You’re going to love it here. The Niobrara National Scenic River and Smith Falls State Park in Nebraska With 76-miles of river to explore, this nationally designated scenic river is a must-see vacation stop!  From canoeing and kayaking to tubing and swimming, there are so many ways to lose yourself in outdoor adventure and excitement.  Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, as well as miles and miles of scenic wooded trails bustling with wildlife and bursting with gorgeous plants and flowers.  Visitors of all ages will enjoy plenty of fun in the sun and have plenty of opportunities to snap the photograph of a lifetime! Red River Gorge in Kentucky The ultimate road trip destination boasts plenty of outstanding natural attractions from Daniel Boone National Forest to the Gorge Underground t o rock climbing, hiking, zip lining, and so much more.  Snag a scenic cabin in the woods to create lasting memories and one-of-a-kind experiences that your family will never forget.  Red River Gorge has world class entertainment thanks to Mother Nature’s abundant gifts, with guided activity tours, underground kayaking, mountain biking, wilderness hikes, and gorgeous geological formations and wildlife.  Take in the fresh mountain air, dip your toes into the rushing waters, and climb up to the treetops to get in touch with nature like never before. Other incredible and interesting places to explore include: The Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior Michigan Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Put-In-Bay Ohio Cypress Illinois and the Cache River Wetlands The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Ely Minnesota

When shopping for a vehicle, there are so many different options to consider and weigh. You want to get the most bang for your buck and, of course, as many of your desired add-ons or features as possible within your budget. When selecting a vehicle, you’ll want to look beyond the sticker price and see how it stacks up in areas of long-term costs such as maintenance costs, fuel costs, insurance, and last but not least: depreciation. Kelly Blue Book has gone the extra mile by showing how each of these figures stacks up across multiple makes, models, and brands to help you choose the right vehicle for your needs. They tally up the up-front costs as well as ongoing costs, and the value after five years of ownership. Kelly Blue Book has released their official guide for best vehicles and brands for their “5-Year Cost to Own Awards” and we’re so thrilled to announce that Toyota has made multiple category entries! Let’s take a look at the wins for Toyota for 2023’s 5-Year Cost to Own Awards. more In the category of “2023 Lowest 5-year cost to Own: Trucks, EVs, Minivan” Toyota wins 3 different spots! The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid stands out against the competition!  This hybrid model has a 5-Year Cost to Own of $30,207, and compared to the segment average it saves more than $11,000 in cost.  With a combined rate of 34-35 mpg, 169hp, and refreshed styling for 2023, this fuel-efficient and safe, reliable model is a cut above the rest. Check out more about the Pros and Cons and Features here! The 2023 Toyota Tundra takes the top-tier honors for the Full-Size Pickup Truck category.  Its 5-Year Cost to Own average is $48,254, and has an average savings of more than $10,000 against its segment average. The 2023 Toyota Tundra CrewMax has a combined fuel economy of 19-20 mpg, more than 348 HP, an impressive towing capacity of 8,300-11,400 lbs, and a history of comfort, reliability, and safety standards. Check out more about the Pros, Cons, and Features of the Tundra here. The 2023 Toyota Sienna ranks a cut above the rest with a 5-year cost to own of $42,699, and compared to the segment average it has more than $6,000 in savings. The 2023 Sienna boasts a fuel-efficient 35-36 mpg, 245HP, and is named the Minivan Best Buy of 2023!  It has an optional all-wheel drive feature to increase drivability and safety especially in wintry conditions, and roomy 3-row seating that comes standard to accommodate up to 8 people. It’s perfect for families and group outings! Check out more on the Pros, Cons, and Features of the Sienna here. Toyota Wins High Ranking as One of Two of 2023’s Lowest 5-Year Cost to Own Brands Toyota’s stellar record and reputation for reliability and safety makes the brand a go-to choice for buyers looking for a top notch vehicle. Thanks to its wide variety of vehicle options from cars to trucks to vans and SUVs, new car buyers will find plenty of options to fit their growing and evolving daily driver needs. The brand’s environmentally friendly line of EVs and Hybrids make it a popular choice across all markets. The midsize Camry Sedan and RAV4 Crossover SUV are among the brand’s top sellers. If you’re shopping for a new vehicle or purchasing a reliable pre-owned vehicle, you can rest easy knowing that Toyota has you covered. Let Classic Toyota of Waukegan Help You Find the Perfect Toyota Model to Fit Your Lifestyle Not sure where to start with your Toyota Journey? Classic Toyota of Waukegan is here to help guide you down the road to success. We’ll help you find the right vehicle to fit your budget, lifestyle, and driving habits and you’ll be back on the road to adventure in no time.  Stop by Classic Toyota today to explore your options and test drive one today!

Looking for some day trip activities and short getaways? Check out these local festivals happening at the end of this month and Memorial Day Weekend: Memorial Day in Milwaukee Mercado on 5th in East Moline The DuPage Arts Festival The Sueños Music Festival In Chicago The Festa Italiana in Herrin Prairie Arts Festival in Schaumburg Yorkville Bluegrass Music Festival in Yorkville Collinsville Memorial Day Fireworks Festival in Collinsville more Want to book a resort or longer stay? Look no further than these great options in Illinois and Wisconsin: FOX RIVER RESORT in Aurora, IL For an all-in-one vacation stop, you can’t beat Fox River Resort!  This family friendly retreat offers an incredible array of activities to delight all travelers from young to old.  Kids will go wild for the Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park, while adults will enjoy the indoor or outdoor pool for laps or relaxation, or perhaps book a rental to enjoy watersports activities such as rowing, pedal boats and more along the river.  There’s an on-site 9-hole golf course for those who prefer to “putter” around.  And adventure seekers will be delighted to learn it is just a 30 minute drive away from the gorgeous natural Starved Rock State Park; this gorgeous park is perfect for hiking, fishing, mountain biking, nature photography, and so much more!  And of course, it’s just 90 minutes from the bright city lights of Chicago, if you’d like to make a day of it and go sightseeing or explore the many cultural and culinary delights of the metropolitan area. THE HOTEL INDIGO NAPERVILLE RIVERWALK in Naperville, IL This gorgeous hotel is right in the heart of all the fun and culture of Naperville!  Families will enjoy an on-site fitness center and luxury amenities where they can rest and recharge after a busy day exploring the local activities.  The Riverwalk is just a stone's throw away, so you and your family can explore and enjoy nearly 2 miles of gorgeous brick paths, bridges, outdoor sculptures and public art installations, special events, memorials, and family-friendly activities!  There’s so much to see that you can make a whole day of the Riverwalk experience.  There’s also the Millennium Carillon and Moser Tower Visitor Center; this historic structure is in the top 4 tallest structures in the US, and offers guided tours so you can learn more about its commemoration.  The DuPage Children’s museum is great for families who have kids that love to explore and get hands-on with their fun and learning.  The Naper Settlement is a history buff’s dream, where you can enjoy historic architecture and learn about Naperville’s past.  If you’re looking for swimming and sandy beaches, you’ll love Centennial Beach, with plenty of aquatic activities perfect for families.  Naperville is packed to the brim with nature, culture, and delicious eateries! LAKEWOODS RESORT in Cable, WI Explore the incredible 3400 scenic acres of Lake Namakagon in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.  Whether you’re looking for a cozy room with the rustic lodge experience, or you prefer something more private like a lakeview luxury apartment, there’s something for everyone at Lakewoods Resort.  The surrounding area of Chequamegon National Forest is perfect for hiking, nature photography, and mountain biking.  The nearby shores of the Lake are perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and then some.  Plus, there’s a beautiful 18-hole golf course to challenge both amateur and professional players. OSTHOFF RESORT in Elkhart Lake, WI Get off the hamster wheel and exit the rat race of life for a few days at the magnificent Osthoff Resort.  A classic luxury getaway for families in Chicago, St. Louis, and Milwaukee, this resort is full of entertainment, modern amenities, and plenty of upscale dining along the shimmering waters of Elkhart Lake.  You’ll find an on-site spa with whirlpool baths, a meditation sanctuary, massages, facials, and other full-body treatments.  Enjoy the sunshine with incredible outdoor activities such as tennis, volleyball, indoor and outdoor pools, a miniature golf course, and even a paintball court!  If you prefer a quieter stay, you can enjoy sunning on the sandy shores of the lake, paddle boating, or even sailing. PITLIK’S BEACH RESORT in Eagle River, WI Should you find yourself nostalgic for days gone by, and wanting to rekindle the magic of childhood memories spent romping in the woods and exploring the wilds of nature, this is the resort for you.  The nearby shores of Sand Lake are perfect for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.  The forests are full of local flora and fauna, just perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.  You and your family can enjoy a low-tech lifestyle with cozy and rustic living in Pitlik’s picturesque cabins along the lake.  Enjoy breakfast and lunch in the fresh woodland air or on a beautiful screened in porch, then head over to the main Lodge for a family dinner at Rena’s place, and enjoy a nightcap or cocktail at Joe’s Taproom.

It’s National Odometer Day! How much do you know about this vital piece of tech in your vehicle? Check out today’s blog to learn about your odometer and special mileage-based tune-ups and service appointments you should be making for your vehicle. more What is an Odometer? How does it measure mileage? Odometers generally count wheel rotations, and use a formula calculating the number of rotations multiplied by the tire’s circumference.  This is part of the reason why it’s very important to maintain your tire treads, as underinflated or very worn tires can affect an odometer’s mileage tracking process. Likewise, if your vehicle is equipped with after-market and non-standard tires or wheels, the odometer reading may not be as accurate. As a result of these shifting variables and modified possibilities, odometer readings can be off by several percent. The formula by which odometer readings are calculated for a motor vehicle: (Actual Distance Traveled) = (Final Odometer Reading - Initial Odometer Reading) multiplied by (actual tire diameter) divided by (Standard tire diameter) Routine Maintenance checks are generally done at a “30-60-90” mileage marker, meaning every thirty thousand miles or so you should schedule a tune-up and maintenance appointment with your trusted mechanic or service provider.  This ensures that your vehicle will run properly, and avoids costly repairs as some parts may wear out earlier than anticipated depending on your driving style/habits.  An average tune-up often ranges from $200-$800, but this may be more depending on the age of your vehicle, driving habits, and type of vehicle.  You can find estimated annual costs of operations and mileage maintenance estimate calculators online to help you budget wisely and be prepared for regular intervals of tune-ups and repairs/replacements. Mileage Based Repairs, Tune-Ups and Maintenance Below are some helpful timeline estimations for service on your vehicle Every 3,000-6,000 miles you should receive an oil change. (Check your vehicle’s manufacturer guide for specific mileage requirements and type of oil - synthetic or regular. Older models may need closer to the 3k mark) If you’re purchasing or leasing a brand new vehicle, you’ll generally want to schedule a maintenance appointment at the 10,000 mile mark.  This initial service will often include tire rotation, air filter, oil change and parts. Older non-electronic ignition systems vehicles should be serviced either 10,000-12,000 miles or annually (whichever comes first!) and those with newer fuel injection systems and electronic ignitions can go 25,000+ between major tune-ups; check with your trusted mechanic or service department for guidelines, and consult your vehicle manufacturer handbook. At 10,000 miles you should have your tires rotated and vehicle aligned. At 30,000 miles you should have a full tune-up service including coolant, power steering, hoses and belts checked/replaced, and an engine checkup. At 50,000 miles you may need to service the following: Shocks and struts (suspension system), replace brake pads, new fuel filter, exhaust system inspection, automatic transmission tune-up and service. 50,000-70,000 miles you’ll need to inspect all of the belts, valves, and hoses, and you’ll want to install new tires if you haven’t already. (Always replace your tires at least 2 at a time) Around 60,000-70,000 miles you’ll need to have your fuel pump and water pump examined for cracks, wear, and tear and especially so if you notice any buzzing noises or your vehicle seems to stall frequently. Car Batteries last roughly about 80,000 miles, so if you notice you need to frequently jump your car, there’s a lot of erosion or leaking fluids, then you’ll want to have that swapped out ASAP before your car breaks down. Your spark plugs should be replaced between 80,000-100,000 miles. 90,000 miles is time to have another full tune-up and once over of your vehicle At 100,000 miles, you’ll need to have a bumper-to-bumper inspection of your vehicle including engine, transmission, water pump, timing belt, etc. You’ll need to switch to high-mileage coolants and spark plugs, too. At 125,000 miles, the O2 sensors will need to be replaced, the AC/Heating will need service, and you’ll need to replace: coolant, fuel filter, brake fluid, shocks and struts, and get an alignment. For high mileage vehicles 180,000-250,000 miles, you’ll want to check the axles, drive shafts, airflow sensor, belts and timing chain, power steering, chassis, fuel injectors, etc. It will need a thorough inspection from bumper to bumper and may require more frequent service maintenance for a smooth ride.

Only automotive company in Top 10 for third year in a row Included on 15 of the Top 25 Specialty Lists, highlighting areas of achievement more DiversityInc named Toyota North America* one of its 2023 Top 50 Companies for Diversity®, ranking 4 th among more than 150 companies participating in the survey. Toyota ranks 4 th for the second year in the row and continues to be the only automotive manufacturer ranked in the Top 10. “Everyone—at every level—has an important role to play in creating an inclusive and diverse culture for the common good,” said Tellis Bethel, chief diversity officer and group vice president of social innovation, Toyota Motor North America. “Diversity and inclusion unlock innovation, as well as opportunity for an equitable future. Together, we can create limitless possibilities for all.” The DiversityInc Top 50 list, issued yearly since 2001, recognizes the nation’s top companies for diversity and inclusion management. Toyota has been recognized as a Top 50 company for 16 consecutive years. DiversityInc rankings are empirically driven and based on company-submitted data in six key areas: Leadership Accountability, Human Capital Diversity Metrics, Talent Programs, Workforce Practices, Supplier Diversity and Philanthropy. Toyota also received special recognition in the following areas: No. 1 Top Company for LGBTQ Employees No. 1 Top Company for Talent Acquisition for Women of Color No. 2 Top Company for Asian Executives No. 2 Top Company for Black Executives No. 3 Top Company for Female Executives No. 3 Top Company for Environmental, Social and Governance No. 4 Top Company for Latino Executives No. 4 Top Company for Native American/Pacific Islander Executives No. 8 Top Company for Mentoring No. 11 Top Company for Philanthropy No. 12 Top Company for Board of Directors No. 12 Top Company for Executive Diversity Councils No. 13 Top Company for Sponsorship No. 15 Top Company for People with Disabilities No. 24 Top Company for Supplier Diversity “As we transition to a mobility company, we recognize the transformative power of innovative thinking that only comes with diversity of thought and experience,” added Bethel. “That’s why it’s a core mission to recognize and celebrate diversity at all levels, to drive a culture of inclusion where every team member can thrive and provide equal access to education for the jobs of tomorrow.” For more information on Toyota’s Diversity and Inclusion efforts please visit ToyotaEffect.com. *Toyota Motor North America and Toyota Financial Services moved to the Plano headquarters, the first time in the same location, in 2017 as part of the OneToyota initiative. The move made for faster decision making and created a better experience for customers and team members. Information from both companies was collected and submitted to DiversityInc. About DiversityInc About DiversityInc: DiversityInc’s mission is to educate the workforce and bring clarity to the business benefits of workplace fairness, equity and inclusion. We have evolved as the preeminent source of human capital data, education and advice. DiversityInc is a VA-certified and veteran-owned business. We are also certified by Disability: IN and led by a Black woman CEO. About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships. Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 22 electrified options. Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible.

There’s never a bad time to do some Spring Cleaning!  And that’s especially true if we’re talking about our vehicles, of course.  We spend a lot of time on the go to and from work, school, activities, clubs, classes, and all sorts of other adventures. In fact, AAA says that American drivers spend about 17,600 minutes on average behind the wheel of a car. That’s a long time to be in there without cleaning, and even more frightening to learn more than 30% of drivers rarely clean their car. Did you know that there are about 700 different strains of bacteria living in your vehicle?  Yikes! It’s a good thing Classic is here to help with our handy guide to DIY hacks for a cleaner, tidier vehicle! more A can of compressed air is your new best friend! This trusty and affordable tool will help you blast the dust and dirt from small crevices and hard to reach places such as your air vents. A small crafters sponge brush can remove grime and grit from hard-to-clean areas. Found in the budget bins of dollar stores and craft stores, this budget friendly tool just needs a quick dip in your cleaner of choice, and then give it a swipe in hard-to-clean areas like the inside of your vents or cup holders.  Alternatively, you can use a small cotton ball on a stick or a cotton swab. A firm toothbrush does the heavy lifting to remove sticky substances and grime off of textured surfaces.  Grab an old toothbrush or a no-name brand and go to town on those nooks and crannies and textured surfaces, lifting up the layers of crud out of every divet and bump in no time flat. Head to your kitchen for this next surprisingly affordable tool: cooking spray oil! That’s right, this common household ingredient can help you easily lift away bug splatter and dead insects from your car’s paint with no damage.  Just spray, wait a few seconds, and then gently wipe with a microfiber cloth and those bug corpses will be no more. Create a DIY air freshener for a fraction of the cost of name brand options with laundry supplies and a mason jar. Got some scent beads in your laundry room? They make a great budget friendly air freshener in under 5 minutes. Poke small holes in the lid of a mason jar or recycled glass jar lid, or alternatively cut a piece of screen or mesh and take the outer ring of a canning jar lid to make a grate top.  Shake some of the scent beads/balls (about ¼ cup should do), then affix your hole-poked liid, or lay your mesh over the jar opening and twist the outer ring on. This will allow airflow and scent to permeate the car with a fresh scent for weeks. Get rid of pet hair in a pinch with this easy household tool hack! Grab a spray bottle with water and a small shower squeegee for this one. Spritz your seats and floor mats where the pet hair is gently with the water (don’t soak it, a light mist will do), and run the rubber edged squeegee along the upholstery.  The pet hair will come up quickly and easily and you can throw it away or vacuum it up! A young couple washing a car in a driveway on a summer evening. Oil stains got you down? We understand, but don’t despair!  Cat lovers rejoice because you have this handy tool in your arsenal already. Completely cover the oil with kitty litter, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes for small oil spills, or overnight if it’s a large one.  Sweep up the kitty litter after the allotted time, and then scrub the area with a bristle brush dipped in laundry detergent or dish detergent (Dawn works fabulously here!) What common household items or products have you used for a DIY cleaning hack? Let us know in the comments!

Today is Cinco De Mayo, but aside from promotional events and bottomless margarita specials, how much do you know about the origins of this day in Mexican history?  Today, we wanted to take a moment to share a little bit about the origins of this commemorative holiday, and then of course, a list of local restaurants where you can grab a delicious Mexican dinner with friends and family!  (And of course after reading this blog you can impress them with your knowledge of history and culture while you chow down!) It’s a great day to support your local Mexican and Mexican-American owned local businesses. more Sharing the real, authentic story behind the holiday is a great way to change stereotypes and educate others about the powerful origins of this day in Mexican heritage and history!  So make sure if you’re partaking in the festivities locally, that you remember its importance and talk about it with others.  Supporting Mexican Arts and Mexican Museums is another great way to celebrate!  Embracing the culture, history, and traditions of Mexican artisans through special gallery shows and arts and history museums is an incredible way to connect and honor the culture.  And, of course, exploring the incredibly vast and flavorful authentic meals and recipes from Mexico’s many different regional cuisines.  Whether you’re stopping by a local restaurant or cooking a meal at home for you and your family and friends, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the heritage! Looking for dishes that originated in Puebla specifically? Check out this great list from Isabella’s blog “Let’s Travel to Mexico”! What is Cinco De Mayo? In America it’s become synonymous with unlimited tacos and bottomless margs, but it actually holds significant historic relevance to the country of Mexico.  Contrary to popular belief, its association with a feast of Mexican and Tex Mex foods is a popularly increasing celebratory trend of recent years.   Many people presume that Cinco De Mayo is Mexico’s Independence Day, but it actually has other origins. Cinco de Mayo, is actually the Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, a celebration observed in Mexico and parts of the US. The Mexican Army’s achieved victory over the French Empire on May 5th 1862, thanks to General Ignacio Zaragoza, and overtook the French Forces of Napoleon III.  The French later returned with reinforcements, but ultimately were defeated by the Mexican Army who took full control back of the city later in April 1867.  The battle remains a significant day in Mexican history, symbolizing Mexico’s determination to take back their home, and their fortitude in the face of foreign occupation and aggressors.  In Mexico, it’s not really a “holiday” except for the region of Puebla, where it of course is very significant. Check out this video from Street Vlogs and take a drive through Puebla from Angelopolis through to the Historic City  Center in gorgeous 4K video! Vlogger Geraldine Glam on YouTube is sharing 20 things to do in Puebla 2023! (En Español) Learn more about the food and history of Puebla Mexico from Tourist to Local on Youtube! Anthony Bourdain A Cooks Tour “Puebla Where the Good Cooks are From” is a nostalgic episode from Season 1 of the late chef’s show celebrating the incredible cuisine, culture, and history of Puebla Mexico! What’s it like driving the Pan American Highway through Mexico? Check out this incredible vlog from Toyota World Runners on YouTube as the document their road trip journey. Daniel Suarez is the first Mexican NASCAR driver, and here’s a little spotlight video from I Am Athlete on YouTube! Great Mexican and TexMex Eateries in the Lake County Illinois and Greater Chicago Area: Toluca’s Restaurant in Waukegan Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant in Waukegan Antojitos Guerrero in Waukegan El FAmous Burrito in Waukegan Taqueria El Charro in Waukegan La Canoa in Waukegan Taqueria Guerrero in Waukegan Golosinas El Encanto in Waukegan El Caporal in Waukegan Tacos El Norte in Waukegan Comales de Waukegan in Waukegan Sazon Cocina Mexicana in Waukegan Three Amigos in Lake Villa Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Libertyville Authentico Mexican Restaurant & Bar in Lake Forest Jalisco Restaurant in Gurnee Momcorn in Gurnee Sofia’s Mexican Restaurant in Island Lake Casa Bonita MExican Restaurant and Tequila Bar Mexican Grill Los Magueyes in Fox Lake

May the 4th be with you all!  Today is Star Wars day, and we’re really excitecd about it!  Today’s blog is all about cool and interesting vehicles from the Star Wars Universe.  If you’ve got a favorite vehicle or ship that we’ve left off our list, let us know in the comments below.  We love to see everyone’s personal faves. more And when you’re done reading, head over to the Waukegan Public Library at 5PM for “The Library Awakens, a Star Wars Celebration”! The AT-ST The AT-ST is a scout battle vehicle which first made an appearance in Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. It’s birdlike appearance helps it walk through areas other vehicles cannot, and it’s quite agile despite its awkward appearance.  It can rotate its head to fire multiple rounds at enemies, and can run fast into battle or slowly creep to survey the area. Jabba the Hutt’s Sailing Barge This nefarious cruise ship belongs to none other than the malevolent space slug known as Jabba the Hutt.  Jabba and his ilk use this barge, also known as Khetanna, to transport prisoners to their death at the Sarlaac Pit, a giant carnivorous sand worm on Tatooine.  This roving palace sails across the sands of the desert planet with ease, but it’s also ready to fight a battle with enemies at a moments notice since it’s equipped with plenty of weapons and spots for bounty hunters to fight fellow pirates and other intruders. The Jawa Sandcrawler These mobile roving fortresses are equipped with treads capable of navigating gravel, rock, and sand.  They’re used by the Jawas on both Tatooine and Arvala-7 as their home and mobile workshop.  These vehicles also have a magnetic suction device for pulling both scraps and droids into the ship’s interior to harvest for scrapping. It has plenty of cargo room as well as bunks for its inhabitants when they’re not in the workshops and scrap-processing facilities.  Each sandcrawler can fit a whole Jawa Clan, anywhere from 30 to 60 Jawas.  They’re originally manufactured by the Corellia Mining Corporation. Gungan Battle Wagon These wagons are piloted by a Falumpaset and used by the Gungans to defend their territory and their planet from nefarious outside forces.  It uses large wheels to minimize any jostling of the rider and contents, and is used to carry supplies or energy ball ammunition to combat troops.  The Falumpset is used due to its long legs which make it perfect for covering lots of ground on the grasslands in great long strides.  The Grand Gungan Army is known for applying its hybrid of technology and traditional weapons.  They focus on defense rather than offense, but are a formidable force in battle. Mon Calamari Star Cruiser The Mon Calamari people were an asset to the Rebel Alliance.  Determined to restore freedom to the galaxy, these peace-seeking people had an immense amount of fire power at the ready.  The cruiser was just one of several in a fleet of powerful ships designed to take down the Imperial Starfleet.  They were equipped with turbolasers, ion cannons, tractor beam projections, and had a formidable shield generator.  They were 1200m in length, making them a sincere force to be reckoned with. X34 Landspeeder The infamous mode of transport for a teenaged Skywalker on the planet of Tatooine.  This unassuming vehicle was 3.4m in length and capable of floating 1m above the sandy terrain.  Thanks to the harsh terrain and environment of Tatooine, maintaining these vehicles required a lot of frequent tune-ups and tinkering.  It has a trio of air-cooled thrust turbines, which are coupled with the repulsorlift engine, allowing it to float above the ground for speedy travel. Naboo Flash Speeder This sleek, stunning specimen in airspeed transport was employed by the Royal Guards of Naboo.  Originally designed for patrol use due to their speed and agility, they also doubled as combat vehicles in a pinch.  They're equipped with a turret-mount blaster cannon on the rear spoiler, and twin repulsorlift engines.  They were used to liberate the capital of Theed on Naboo from the Trade Federation, and used by bounty hunters during the Clone Wars. What are some of your favourite additions to the ever expanding vehicles of the Star Wars Universe? Let us know in the comments! Check out this video of a cool car built and designed by Bryan Benedict and Billy Hammon as seen on Jay Leno’s Garage! Did you know that NASCAR has also celebrated Star Wars in the ultimate pop-culture merger? Check out this cool video from The Iceberg on YouTube to learn more!