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Recently, we met someone who – at 35 – has yet to learn to drive. There are lots of reasons for this, and while public transportation is usually an option, it’s not so much in his neck of the woods. Most of us learned how to drive in our teens. In fact, we couldn’t wait! The freedom and opportunity resulting from having a driver’s license is something most of us take for granted. Is it ever too late to get yours? Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA says, “No!” and offers some helpful tips for you or someone you know to finally get behind the wheel. Start by enrolling in a licensed/approved driving school. Some specialize in teaching adults who may have fears or hesitations about learning at a late age. It’s better to work with an approved teacher than friends or family who may make the process harder. A driving school can help guide you through the process of getting a learner’s permit which you’ll need before you can get a full-fledged license. Count on several hours behind-the-wheel before you take your official “road test” with your local Department of Motor Vehicles. It’s typically an average of 75 hours of supervised driving spread out over different conditions (night driving, heavier traffic, parking, etc.). There are options when you can cram needed driving time into a shorter “intensive” course. You’ll need to take a written test about the driving laws of your state and general safety practices. Studying the available manual will help. If you don’t cut it the first time around, don’t worry; many of us had to take the driver’s test more than once. But before you know it, you’ll be a full-fledged driver with all the freedom and convenience that entails. Another way to make yourself comfortable behind the wheel and on the road is to choose a Toyota. It’s one of the safest vehicles on the road, with advanced safety features that provide a little extra help. The Safety Sense features include things like pre-collision warning, lane-departure alert, and more. While you’re gaining confidence in your own driving skills, it’s nice to know a car from Peruzzi Toyota will be a trusted partner!

This is the time of year when deer are on the move; mating season lasts until December and the likelihood of encountering them on the road increases exponentially. According to State Farm Insurance, Pennsylvania ranks as the state that’s the third highest for colliding with deer, and the costs for repairs are increasing. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA offers these tips to stay safe around these beautiful critters. Deer are herd animals; when you see one or two, there are likely more nearby. Stay sharp if you see one crossing the road. From dusk into the evening hours is when deer and other wildlife tend to be most active; use your high beams to expand your range of sight. Slow down on rural or suburban roads, those with sharp curves and corners, and long straightaways near wooded areas. These create potential points of impact. A deer hitting your vehicle creates major damage. One study conducted between 2006 and 2019 showed that the average cost for fixing deer-related damage was about $3,700. Those costs keep rising, mainly due to the many sensors, cameras, and other advanced features that need to be fixed or replaced. On the upside, auto manufacturers like Toyota are working on collision-warning systems that specifically alert drivers to the presence of deer or other animals. In the meantime, be your own Deer Warning System: stay alert, stick to the speed limit or slow down in areas known to harbor wildlife. Keep your lights, brakes, and tires in good shape for optimal performance when you need it most. Sadly, and as far as safety goes, there may be instances when hitting the deer is the better option. If you face a choice between the deer or swerving into another lane to avoid it, hitting the deer will ultimately do less damage. Toyota works hard to provide the most advanced safety technology for our customers, but in the end, your own smart driving habits will do the most to avoid deer collisions.

It’s that time of year again, with kids heading back to school, and a few brand-new drivers out on the local streets. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA wants to keep everyone safe on the road, so here are some reminders to keep yourself and others safe during this busy time. First, pay extra-close attention to your surroundings, especially when you’re in school zones and residential areas. School kids may not be as aware of what’s around them and can excitedly run out into the street. Then there are the kids on bikes. Constantly “sweep” the area and be prepared to slow down or stop. Remember the rules around school buses: if the yellow lights are flashing, they’re preparing to stop. When the lights are red, you’re obligated to stop – in both directions – as the bus loads and unloads their passengers. On that note, build in a little extra time on your commutes to accommodate traffic slowdowns from buses or kids crossing the street. Don’t drive distracted. This applies at any time of year, but especially when the volume of kids on the street has increased. Don’t check your phone, do your makeup, or eat. Be alert for those who may not be, like a child running out from between cars to hurry to the bus stop. Back to school time also brings new drivers, eager to get themselves to school all on their own. Be patient with them, and most of all, give them some space on the street. Peruzzi Toyota is proud to represent one of the safest auto brands on the road. The Toyota Safety Sense suite of features which comes standard offers things like pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and other tools to keep you (and others) safer on the road. But even with all that technology, nothing replaces your own eyes on the road.

Recently, we heard a story from a friend whose rental car broke down while driving from Vegas to Palm Springs – namely, in the desert. It was a scary situation because literally no one was on the road and it was, well, the desert. So even if Hatfield, PA isn’t that remote, Peruzzi Toyota has these suggestions on handling a roadside emergency in which you find yourself really off the beaten path. BE PREPARED It’s always smart to have an emergency kit prepared with the proper tools. That includes road flares, a phone charger, empty gas can, multipurpose tool, pencil and paper, flashlight, First Aid kit, jumper cables, and bottled water (with some non-perishable snacks). In cold weather, throw in a blanket and extra shirt for layers. GET OFF THE ROAD Move your car as far off the road as you can and use your hazard lights to make yourself visible. You can also lift your hood as a sign you need help. STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE Unless you’re in walking distance to a populated area, experts suggest that it’s best to stay with your vehicle, especially if the weather is harsh. Stay inside and lock the doors. For safety reasons, it’s best to decline help from strangers. CALL FOR HELP This is where it can be tricky. Our friend couldn’t get cell service where she was, so calling the usual Roadside Assistance crew was out. However, you can still call 911. The FCC rule is that all cell providers must put through any emergency call that they pick up on their service. That’s what she did, and help arrived soon after. It’s good to know that as part of their ownership, Peruzzi customers get ToyotaCare, a 24-hour roadside assistance plan. We’ll get to you fast to fix a flat, jump start a battery, or whatever else we can do to get you safely on your way.

Those who drive for a living, such as truckers and even race car drivers, know more about the road than most of us. So, when it comes to the best insider tips on safe winter driving, that’s who you turn to. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA did some homework and offer up these smart hacks for better handling cold weather road conditions. Professional drivers know how critical it is to pay attention to the road surface. This is especially true in winter, when the most dangerous conditions occur when temperatures hover right around freezing. If ice or snow starts to melt in the sun, a slight drop can refreeze it. Alternately, roads that fall under the shadow of a grove of trees or tall hills will freeze more quickly.  Keep your eyes peeled and slow down. On that same note, take it easy in the presence of large trucks. They don’t have the ability to stop on a dime, so provide them with a wide berth any time of the year, but especially in wintry driving conditions. You already know that it’s important to keep an emergency kit in the trunk. Driving experts add that it should also include a tow strap, small air compressor, phone charger, blanket – and perhaps the most important item of all, long underwear! It doesn’t take up much space but goes a long way in keeping you warm if you get stranded. Speaking of staying warm, before you head out in winter, be sure to top off the gas tank. If you need to, you can stay warm all night idling the car on half a tank (just be sure no snow is blocking your exhaust). Other winter preparations include checking your cooling system to ensure your antifreeze is clean and full. While the hood is up, check and fill up your wiper fluid. Expert drivers also swear by coating the windshield with something like Rainex to reduce the snow and grime that can reduce performance. Don’t forget your headlights and taillights; LED lights don’t generate enough heat to melt snow and ice. These simple precautions will go a long way to keeping your winter driving safe and uneventful. And that’s the best kind!

You’ve heard the terms “all-wheel drive” and “four-wheel drive” bandied about for years. But the average driver may not understand exactly what that means, and more importantly, how it will impact their own driving. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is happy to walk you through the basics. All-Wheel Drive:  Front-wheel drive is fairly typical, and its name pretty much says it all: power is pushed to the front wheels of the vehicle. It will serve you well in the day-to-day. All-wheel drive, however, takes things up several notches. This drive technology is an automatic function, allowing each wheel to use power independently, rather than simply sending it to those front or rear wheels. This makes it great for handling tricky weather conditions and things like slick roads. Because it’s always “on,” you don’t have to think about it which makes it a great asset in everyday driving; it’s constantly adjusting to road conditions to keep you moving safely. All-wheel drive can be found in Toyota models like the Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Highlander, and Toyota Camry. Four-Wheel Drive: In these vehicles (such as a Toyota Tacoma or Toyota Tundra), the power is typically only pushed to the rear wheels to keep it moving forward. You’ll need to switch to the four-wheel mode manually to divide the torque equally among all four wheels and keep them moving in balance. This makes it ideal for navigating difficult terrain or snow and deep water. Because it offers better control, four-wheel drive is the best choice for those who love off-roading adventures or need to haul heavy loads. Whatever your driving style – or needs -- Peruzzi Toyota has such a wide variety of exceptional Toyotas that you’re bound to easily find the perfect one for your life. Our experts can answer all your questions to ensure that you find the right Toyota vehicle for your lifestyle.

‘Tis the season for hitting the road in your Toyota, on trips both long and short. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA wants our customers to stay safe and comfortable on the road, so check out these tips for getting your vehicle ready for summer fun! First, have your AC unit thoroughly checked by one of our service technicians. We’ll make sure all hoses, belts, and seals are in peak shape, the refrigerant is at capacity, and everything is running at peak efficiency. After all, nothing kills summer fun quicker than an unexpectedly sweltering car. On a related note, purchase a dashboard sunshade to keep the interior temperature down (especially if you’re parked in direct sunlight) and crack the windows to let any hot air escape. That will give your air conditioner an assist once you turn it on, helping it to not have to work so hard. Other things on your road trip checklist should be checking engine coolant levels, and your wiper fluids and blades. A fresh oil change will start you off on the right footing, as will a thorough battery check. And speaking of “footing,” you’ll want to check that your tires are properly inflated (seasonal changes affect air pressure) and that the treads are in good condition. That will also help you get the best fuel performance, too. The service department at Peruzzi Toyota can easily (and quickly) handle all these tasks for you. Another thing to not overlook: the exterior. Before the summer heats up, give the outside of your Toyota a good coat of wax to protect the paint job from the punishing rays. Make sure you have a charger for your cell phone, plenty of water, a hat (or hats) and sunscreen in case you find yourself stuck anywhere for a time. And it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re headed off to, and when you’re expected to return. Now, get out there and have the best summer ever!

Recently, a Toyota dealership in Florida noted that one of their customers had hit a biiiiig milestone: a man who bought a Toyota Highlander in 2006 hit an astonishing million miles on the odometer. For 17 years, he had used his Highlander for work, relying on it as a mobile office and for towing trailers for his asphalt paving business. That’s pretty impressive, but not as unusual as you might think. Toyotas are known for being one of the most reliable brands on the market, with exceptional longevity. While you may not make a million miles, Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA offers these tips for keeping your car, truck, or SUV in peak condition. Who knows? Maybe you’ll break a record! The owner of the Million Mile Highlander says the main key to keeping his Toyota running for all those years was simple: regular oil changes! This is one of the basic rules for keeping a vehicle in peak condition. Regular maintenance around things like fluids, brakes, hoses, and filters will also keep things humming along. Pay attention to Toyota’s suggested maintenance schedule. The expertly trained technicians at Peruzzi Toyota will send you helpful reminders, seamlessly schedule an appointment, and get you back on the road in no time. Don’t ignore funny sounds or little problems; get them looked at before they become a bigger deal. Also, pay attention to your tires. Keep them properly filled and rotated, and regularly check the treads to ensure you have the proper grip on the road, especially in tricky weather conditions. The other secret to helping your Toyota reach peak longevity is to practice good driving habits. That means avoiding things like sudden accelerations, hard braking, and anything otherwise reckless. While you may not go a million miles with your Toyota, you now know that it’s possible with this exceptionally durable brand. Take care of your Toyota, and it will take care of you!

We’ve all been there: you climb into your Peruzzi Toyota on a humid day after a sudden downpour…only to find you can’t see out of your windshield. You try the wipers, but it’s just not clearing things up fast enough. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA knows how frustrating scenarios like that can be, so here are a few tips for defogging your windshield fast. The reason that your windshield fogs up is due to condensation forming from temperature changes and the resulting humidity; this can happen if your car is either hot or cold. The first step to defogging your windshield quickly is to crank up the heat. This helps evaporate the moisture in the car. Next, turn on the air conditioner to absorb that moisture; make sure your air circulation button is off.  Note: you will want to ensure your heating and A/C systems are running at peak performance. If you haven’t had them checked in a while, schedule an appointment with the service pros at Peruzzi Toyota. Finally, crank the windows down – all of them, if you can. Your car will be rid of the “old air” and flooded with outside air to rebalance the internal environment. Here are a few more tips to help reduce instances of windshield fogging. First, keep your windshield – inside and out – clean. The condensation that contributes to fogging things up can cling to dirt and grime. There are also commercial fog repellent products you can apply to the inside of your windshield to prevent it from clouding up. Of course, the defogger button inside your Peruzzi Toyota is a trusty helper, but these other techniques will come in handy to ensure that you always see your way “clear” when you’re out on the road!

Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular. In fact, Toyota has plans to launch 30 new EV models by 2030. Despite their growing popularity, many drivers still get a little anxious about keeping them fueled up. Right now, there are gas stations everywhere – but what about charging stations, which aren’t quite so prevalent? It’s called “range anxiety,” the fear of running out of power on the road. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has pointers to deal with it. Moving from a gas-powered car to an EV can be something of a mental leap. First, educate yourself on today’s EVs. The technology and fuel efficiency continue to improve. Learn how they work, and whether or not one is a good fit for your particular lifestyle. Before switching over completely to an EV, consider a “transition car” like a plug-in hybrid. The Toyota RAV4 Prime or Prius Prime, both available at Peruzzi Toyota, use two engines, one powered by gas, the other by electric. For longer road trips, renting a gas-powered car can ease any EV range heebie jeebies. Your Peruzzi Toyota EV will let you know how many miles you have left on a charge, which will help you plan your trip or commute. Mapping any routes to include both the distance and location of charging stations along the way will give you more peace of mind once you get behind the wheel. Even though more EV charging stations are being installed as the switch to greener energy takes hold, you can further ease any worry by installing your own at-home charging station. Just plug it in and fill ‘er up. Electric vehicles are definitely the future. They’ll save you money and the environment, too. Making the transition from gas-powered cars doesn’t have to be complicated; the experts at Peruzzi Toyota are happy to answer any questions you might have.

No matter how much technology we have in our car, there are still pesky things called “blind spots.” Without being alert to them, accidents can happen - but they don’t have to. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is proud that Toyota offers “Safety Sense” features to act like an extra set of eyes on the road. However, they can’t replace your own, so here are ways to avoid risky blind spots as you drive. First, note the most common blind spot places. These include the rear view, the side views, cargo areas, headrests, and in the front of the vehicle. Start with the inside of your Toyota. Check that nothing is blocking your rear view or side, such as oversized items in the back, or an overstuffed cargo hold. And, while you may typically ignore them, headrests can also block a view. Before making a turn, do the “shoulder check.” This means looking left and right out of your side windows, and over the shoulder – before steering into your turn. On that same note, use your turn signals 100 feet ahead of the turn to give other drivers plenty of notice. It’s also a good idea to use your signals frequently, like during routine runs to the store or school. Those habitual day-to-day drives can make us a bit careless over time; don’t fall into that lazy practice. Make sure the mirrors on your Peruzzi Toyota are properly adjusted to give you as much of a view as possible, but don’t rely on them solely. Your side windows will also give you a clearer picture of what’s around you. Toyota’s “Safety Sense” features include visual and audible warnings if something is entering your blind spot. Between that, and your own smart driving habits, you’ll be in great shape to stay safer on the road.

With all the talk of supply chain shortages, drivers are more aware (and thankful) whenever they spot a big semi-truck hauling goods to their nearest city. They’re a critical part of our infrastructure. Truckers are known for being among the safest drivers on the road, but things happen. So, in the interest of keeping our customers safe, Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has these smart tips for sharing the highways with tractor trailers. DON’T SPEND MORE TIME NEAR THEM THAN YOU HAVE TO. Despite being great drivers, truckers admit that there are unforeseen things that can occur.  Tire blowouts, for one – which can force a giant truck into your lane (or worse). Pass them and put some space between you. KEEP A HEALTHY DISTANCE. While some people like to “draft” behind a tractor trailer thinking it can help their fuel efficiency, this is super-risky. Trucks take a lot longer to stop and need more room to maneuver on the road. If you’re too close, your bumper won’t help in case of a sudden stop (it’s too low) and a shattering windshield can become lethal to you and your passengers. ALWAYS PASS ON THE LEFT. This is common road courtesy, plus the safer option by far. As you pass, use your turn signals, stick to a steady speed, and never pass on a double-yellow line. Also, ensure that when you finally pull ahead of the truck, there’s a good distance between you. AVOID THEIR BLIND SPOTS. The rule of thumb with tractor trailers is, if you can’t see the driver’s side mirror, they can’t see you. If they can’t see you, they may make a move into your lane and hit you. BE EXTRA-CAUTIOUS IN HIGH WINDS. Because they’re bigger, semi-trucks have more surface area. When a strong gust of wind hits them, it can push them into your lane when you least expect it. Give semis a wide berth during wild weather. Peruzzi Toyotas are among the safest vehicles on the road. But even with their acclaimed Safety Sense features, nothing can replace smart, aware driving.