What's that smell? Train your nose, save some hassle.

IF IT SMELLS LIKE...	IT COULD MEAN...
BURNING CARPET	The drive belts could be slipping or it could indicate misplaced loose hoses rubbing against rotating accessory drive pulleys.
ROTTEN EGGS	This is likely a problem with your catalytic converter, either having to do with the transfer of sulfur dioxide or indicating a poorly running engine.  Have it checked out; this could cause your vehicle to overheat.
SWEET SYRUP	Leaking engine coolant.  DO NOT open the radiator cap while it's hot.
GASOLINE	Any smell of fuel can mean a fire hazard--give this smell immediate attention.  If it smells like gasoline, that's likely (but not always)  what's leaking.
BURNING RUBBER	This might indicate a problem with your brakes.  You should have your vehicle checked out immediately.

If you sense anything (smell, sound, feel) out of the ordinary with your Toyota, remember that it's always better to be safe than sorry.  Make an appointment to have one of our professionals take a look-- you can even schedule it online!  We'll get you back on the road as quickly as possible, with the confidence that you're protecting what matters most: you and your passengers.

Life of the party or quiet and gracious host? Your Toyota reveals what you bring to the table.

What does your calendar look like this month?  The holiday season spells stress for some; for others it means cutting loose and having fun!  The bottom line is: December is busy.  Between shopping, decorating, cooking, travel, and parties—how do YOU handle the season?  Let your Toyota do the talking.

Yaris: You bring child-like excitement to every holiday party you attend.  People love your energy; especially during the holiday season.  Most of your effort is spent on the more creative side of things, such as decorating the tree or wrapping gifts.  You’re the one at the party snapping fun photos on your smartphone. 

Prius: It’s no secret that you are passionate about keeping the environment clean.  Your holiday shopping bags are reusable, your wrapping paper is Eco-friendly, and you always switch off the holiday lights at a decent (if not early!) hour.  You are a great listener, which means your gifts always met with a delighted, "How did you know I wanted this!?" You’re the one at the party making sure all the plastic and glass is being recycled.

Camry: If you don’t use it—lose it!  You don’t understand the purpose of lotto scratchers or other cheap trinkets for stocking stuffers.  It's not about the price tag, it's about quality.  If it's not guaranteed to show long-term value, you’re not interested.  You bring a practical element to holiday parties, creating that sense of balance everyone needs.   You are the designated driver everyone appreciates!

RAV4: “Stress” is not in your vocabulary.  While people around you are worried about that visit from their in-laws, perfecting a new recipe, or color-coordinating the tree ornaments, you don’t sweat the small stuff.  Or the big stuff, for that matter.  When an obstacle presents itself, you quickly adapt to handle it—all with a smile on your face.  You’re the life of the party—usually the one in the middle of the dance floor!

Toyotathon is on!  If you're ready to party in the perfect Toyota, check out our online inventory today.

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! 

Want the most bang for your buck? We’ve got your back.

At McGeorge Toyota, we understand that you want to receive professional service without breaking the bank!  Whether you’re in need of a tire rotation, rental car, timing belt replacement, or a simple oil change, we’re here to help you save.  Just visit our website to see our Service Specials

 or take a look at our Facebook Offers Tab to discover all the ways we’ll keep your wallet happy.  

 No matter what your Toyota needs, we’ve got you covered.