Back that thing up! Here's how to avoid tailgating troubles.

 

Whether you’ve got a habit of getting a little too “friendly” on the road or your style is being cramped by other drivers, it’s important to know the rules when it comes to tailgating.  Following another car too closely is not only irritating to the leading motorist; it’s dangerous for both parties involved.  Here’s what to do the next time you’re being tailgated:

-Tap lightly on the brakes to warn the person behind you that they are too close.

-Move to another lane to allow the car to pass you.

-Pull off the road completely so the vehicle is able to pull in front of you .

-If all else fails, use the old-fashioned method!  Reach your arm out the window and wave them around you.

Tailgating should be happening at football games—not on the road!  The most important thing to keep in mind is that the only driver you can control is yourself.  Practice defensive techniques and stay alert and stay safe!  Share YOUR safe driving techniques with us on our Facebook wall!

Here's why the phrase "dry-clean only" will be your best friend this winter!

1.      Wipe down the obvious spots.  Sweep a cloth over the bumpers, trunk, and hood to eliminate water spots and dust.

2.      You don’t have to get the entire vehicle polished to a mirror shine… just the mirrors!  Keeping the glass surfaces clean is not only easy—the impeccable visibility will help you stay safe. 

3.      If you’re guilty of using your car as a garbage can on wheels, keep a small trash bag inside!  Next time you stop to fuel up, do a quick sweep for extra clutter and toss it!

4.      Shake out the floor mats!  Don’t have time to detail everything with a vacuum cleaner?  No problem!  Give those mats a quick shake to drastically improve the appearance of the interior.

5.      Next time you’re cruising down the road, pay attention to where you look inside the vehicle.  Give the gauges, mirrors, dashboard, and center console a quick dusting—your passengers will be none the wiser.

Visit our Service Center to make sure you're fully winter-ready!

Toyota's new technicolor concept is truly from the heart!

Toyota’s latest concept truly is from the heart!  The FV2 is not something we are likely to see in production in the near future, but quite an idea nonetheless!  Inspired by the relationship between a horse and its owner, the FV2 lacks a steering wheel and instead is controlled by the motion of the driver.  The FV2 includes features such as voice and image recognition and a large windshield.  Did we mention the exterior color can change at will?  Tell us what you think!

Visit us online for all your automotive needs.

Daylight Savings Time is almost over, but it means more than just an extra hour of Sunday snoozing.

It's that time of year again!  Daylight Savings Time will be over on November 3^rd—but it means more than just an extra hour of sleep on Sunday.   The imminent chill of winter also means a change in our daily routines.

After we "fall back" one hour, many of us will be spending a good portion of our daily commute in poor lighting.  Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, the darkness that settles in the winter air can be dangerous if you're not prepared.   Keep these things in mind the next time you're out and about!

-Pay attention to your surroundings and avoid using your cell phone. While you’re zeroed in on the latest Instagram post, someone could be approaching you from behind.

-Avoid areas known to be dangerous. Whether you’re a lifer or a new resident, it’s important to memorize which areas of town have bad raps. Steer clear of the rough spots especially at night and when you’re alone.

-Be proactive about reaching your destination! Get directions before you leave your house so you don’t have to bother with the distraction of shuffling papers while you’re en route.

-If you get that creepy feeling that you're being followed, head towards a well-lit public place immediately. Muggers are less likely to attack when in highly-populated places because they are more likely to be identified.

Keeping these things in mind will not only make for a less stressful stroll through the city, it'll ensure you arrive at your destination safely.  Speaking of safe travels, have our techs take a look at your Toyota  to make sure it's in perfect condition before hitting the road!