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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.

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.

The windshield is one of those things that we kind of take for granted (unless it gets fogged up or dirty). But it’s an essential feature for safe driving. Little things like a chip from a rock, worn-out wipers, or too much grime can make a huge difference in how our vehicle performs on the road. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA offers these simple tips to keep your windshield at its best. First, do a quick inspection for things like small chips or cracks. Those can quickly wreck your windshield’s safety while driving. The good news is that windshield repairs and replacements are free in PA if you have comprehensive coverage as part of your auto insurance. So, there’s no excuse to wait. Make cleaning a regular thing. Keep some paper towels and a spray bottle of water in your Toyota. Whenever you stop for gas, take a quick moment to wipe the windshield down. Built-up dirt and dust can impact your vision – especially in the rain. On a similar note, try a rain repellent solution. There are plenty of options, just make sure you apply it the right way. Start with a squeaky-clean windshield; use an ammonia-based cleanser and dry the glass thoroughly. Follow the instructions to apply the repellent. Once it dries, wipe it clean with a towel. Let it “cure” for a bit, then rinse your windshield with water and wipe it down again. Finally, keep your windshield wipers up to snuff. If your wipers squeak across the glass, leave streaks, or show cracks in the rubber, time for a new pair. In fact, it’s a good rule of thumb to replace them at least twice a year. Keep your vehicle out of the sun as much as you can to prevent the rubber from drying out and cracking; in the snow, don’t use your wipers as an ice scraper. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield wants to keep our customers safe, so use these tips to see things more clearly on the road!

One of the reasons Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is so proud to represent the brand is its never-ending commitment to safety for its owners. The Toyota suite of Safety Sense features has been developed over years to deliver the most cutting-edge technology for making drives, both long and short, much safer. Let’s take a closer look at what’s included. PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM WITH PEDESTRIAN DETECTION Cameras and sensors continually scan the area to detect other vehicles, obstacles, or pedestrians. You’re alerted of them through both audio and visual cues; if you fail to brake in time, the system does it for you. Plus, Brake Assist kicks in to give you a little more power in stopping. LANE DEPARTURE ALERT/LANE ASSIST Even the most conscientious driver will have moments when they begin to drift out of their lane – and that can spell trouble. That is where this technology comes in. Once you hit 32 mph, the system kicks in and uses audio/visual reminders to get you back on track. If you’re drifting out of your lane without using a turn signal, Lane Assist makes small steering adjustments to correct things. AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAMS Not only does this offer more safety during night driving, but it’s also convenient; the headlights automatically switch to “low” when it detects an oncoming vehicle. One less thing you have to do manually! ROAD SIGN ASSIST How great is this? This system looks ahead, scanning the road for signs reflecting speed limit changes, stop signs, and more, then displays it inside the cabin. It’s an additional “heads up” to help you from being caught unawares. Naturally, Peruzzi Toyota wants to remind you that while these technological advancements are great, they should be partnered with common sense driving skills. Nothing replaces your own attention behind the wheel, but it’s nice to know you’ve got a helping hand on the road, courtesy of Toyota!

‘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!

Every part of the US has been affected with some unpredictable weather. From epic snowstorms to immense flooding, it’s hard to know what’s coming from week to week. One thing you can count on, however, is reliable Toyota vehicles from Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA. Designed to navigate all kinds of conditions and keep you and your family safe, they’ll “weather” almost anything that Mother Nature throws our way. Here are some of the top picks for the most weather-resilient Toyotas. Toyota RAV4 has a multi-link rear suspension and a wide stance that offers more responsive handling and keeps the vehicle steady under tricky driving conditions. The 2023 RAV4 also features a “snow mode,” which increases traction on slippery roads. The Toyota Highlander’s anti-lock braking system, Traction Control, and Electronic Brake Force Distribution is designed to keep you steady during inclement weather conditions. The latter two features regulate brake pressure and enable any wheel that spins over a slippery surface to grab on and go. For the T oyota 4Runner, you can expect plenty of features that will combat a host of road conditions. Nine inches of ground clearance, LED headlights, and available Multi-Terrain Monitor gives you the tools to expertly handle whatever the weather is kicking up. With its sport-tuned suspension, the Toyota Camry AWD shares the same kind of performance technology of bigger trucks or SUVs. During snow or rain, kick the AWD into gear and feel the vehicle grip the road more securely. The Toyota Sienna AWD has long been praised for its roominess and it’s always-capable performance. Its all-wheel-drive function keeps you steady on the road and the half-foot of ground clearance makes getting through light snow piles a breeze. When it comes to navigating all the strange weather conditions that are becoming commonplace, the Toyota brand has you covered. Come by Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield to see which model fits you best.

Colder weather is creeping up on us. Snow, icy roads, and cold starts in the morning will be here before you know it. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is here with some smart tips on winterizing your Toyota to ensure you stay safe and cozy on the road. CHECK YOUR TIRES: They’re your essential point of contact with the road in every season, but they’re most important in winter. Ensure the tread is up to par and that they’re properly inflated. CHECK YOUR BATTERY: Cold weather can drain the juice, so check that your battery is at full power. LUBRICATE WINDOWS AND DOORS: Water can seep down the window tracks and freeze. Use a little silicon spray to keep them in good shape. The same goes for door frames. Spray some silicon lubricant on a rag and hit the weather stripping around the doors and the trunk. WINTER WIPER BLADES AND WINDSHIELD FLUID: Frost and ice can do a number on your wiper blades, so either get a new set or a set designed for the rough stuff. Your wiper fluid should also be able to handle frostier conditions. REPLACE THE CABIN AIR FILTER: You won’t be rolling down the windows anytime soon, so ensure that the interior air is as clean as possible. CREATE A WINTER EMERGENCY KIT: Be prepared for a breakdown with some essentials to keep you warm and safe as you await help. Ensure you have a phone charger, fluorescent hazard signs, a flashlight, lighter, warm socks, a hat, and mittens, bottled water, snacks like granola bars or beef jerky. Another good idea is to keep a small candle and metal can in your car to make a heat source; running the engine to stay warm can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. A bag of kitty litter can provide traction in a snowbank, while a foldable shovel can help you dig out. Also, a pen and small pad of paper comes in handy when communicating with roadside assistance; they may have information you need to jot down. (Just a note that Toyota offers a great available roadside assistance plan as part of the Safety Sense suite of features.) Peruzzi Toyota’s expert service department will quickly give your Toyota a thorough winterizing and get you ready for the season. Come on by!

It’s that time of year again: when kids are headed to school, school buses are all around, and drivers need to be extra-attentive. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is here with these helpful tips to ensure everyone remains safe. When it comes to school buses, don’t follow them too closely, as they make frequent stops. Once those flashing lights come on, you’re legally required to stop. Leave about 10 feet between the front of your vehicle and the bus, so that kids have plenty of room to cross. Because of their size, school buses have blind spots. Don’t be in a rush to pass them; once they pass a tree or a stop sign, wait a few seconds before proceeding. Always do it on the left side, and NEVER when their lights are flashing; come to a full stop instead. School zones have lower speed limits for a good reason. Keep an eye out for signs that you’re approaching one (and because drop-off and pick-up times can result in slower traffic in these areas, make sure you factor in some extra commuting time). Be aware of crossing guards, as well as kids walking or on their bikes. This is NO time for being on your phone or otherwise distracted. Fortunately, Peruzzi Toyota vehicles include smart technology like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to help you navigate your route safely. Toyota Safety Sense features include pedestrian detection and automatic braking, but they’re no substitute for your own eyes and ears. To avoid any morning stress that could affect your judgement, prepare yourself the night before. Pack any gear needed for the next day’s extracurricular activities and lay out your clothes. Check the weather, have an alternate route in mind, and give yourself extra time. Those were good rules when we were preparing for our next school day, and they still apply when it comes to driving safely around school zones!

The good news is all those road crews you’re likely seeing this summer are working on them. The bad news is potholes are and will always be “a thing.” And outside of the uncomfortable surprise “bump” they deliver, they can really do a number on your vehicle. The service experts at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA see it all the time, so here are a few tips for protecting your vehicle from this common road hazard. The main thing that a pothole can do is knock your alignment out of whack. If your Toyota is “pulling” to one side or the steering wheel seems off-center, schedule a check with our service department. It could be nothing more than replacing a strut, but neglecting it can cost you a lot more down the road – as in, having to have your entire suspension system replaced. Tire “bulges” indicate damage from a heavy impact. The bulge is a result of something breaking inside the structure of the tire, so be sure to get it replaced ASAP. Now, what can you do to minimize any Close Encounters of the Pothole Kind? First, leave enough room between you and the car in front of you, so you can spot a pothole in enough time. Keep your tires fully inflated (check your Peruzzi Toyota owner’s manual to get the right pressure); this will provide the most cushion between the pothole and the tire rim. Watch for pools of water on the road, as this may disguise a deep pothole. If you can’t avoid a pothole, slow down; when you hit one at high speeds, the damage to shocks, tires, springs and more goes up exponentially. However, do NOT brake suddenly; that causes the weight of your vehicle to shift to the front and increases any potential damage from impact. There are some road sections that may be just a series of potholes. In that case, stay in control of your vehicle by holding the steering wheel firmly. Like traffic jams and drivers who cut you off, potholes are just a fact of driving life. But the service experts at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield are here to smooth out the effects of those “bumps in the road.”

A little shaking might be OK on the dance floor, but if it’s your steering wheel that’s shimmying in your hands, that’s not so good. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA wants our customers to always be safe on the road, so here are the general reasons that your steering wheel is acting up. WHEEL MISALIGNMENT If you’ve hit some big potholes or ride on otherwise rough roads, your tires have probably been knocked out of alignment. The steering wheel will shake if the tires aren’t going in the same direction. You can do a quick check by looking at the tire tread; if the inside tread is more worn than the outside, your wheels need to be put back into place. The service pros at Peruzzi Toyota can take care of it for you. UNBALANCED TIRES If you’ve had your tires recently changed or rotated, and the steering wheel is shaking, the weight isn’t evenly distributed. Bring it into Peruzzi to get your tires back in balance. BRAKE ISSUES When your steering wheel shimmies as you hit the brakes, there’s likely a mechanical issue there, possibly with the brake disc. WORN WHEEL BEARINGS Like anything, wheel bearings can become worn over time, especially if you drive frequently on rough roads. If your steering wheel only shakes when you’re turning, that’s a definite sign to have the bearings checked. WORN-OUT STEERING PARTS The wheel is only one part of your steering system, so naturally, if it’s shaking, it makes sense to investigate the bigger picture. If the system – or your suspension in general – has worn out parts, your vehicle won’t work as efficiently and thus, lose some stability and control. It’s a smart idea to have it checked out to avoid bigger problems later on. Whatever the reason your steering wheel may be acting up, bring it into the Peruzzi Toyota service department and let us check it out for you.

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.