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We’ve all heard that motor oil is the “life blood” of a car, and that “blood” can tell you a lot about what’s going on under the hood. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is dedicated to ensuring that our customers have a trouble-free experience each and every year. Here are some helpful ways to check this critical fluid and diagnose what might be happening in the engine by its color. So pop open the hood, pull out the dipstick and see what’s up. OIL THAT’S TAN, AMBER OR CARAMEL-COLORED This is a good sign. Fresh motor oil falls into one of these shades. If yours still reflects that fresh color, you’re in good shape. OIL THAT’S DARK BROWN OR BLACK There is dirt or debris in the motor oil. Dark oil can also reflect being exposed to high heat as it cycles frequently through the engine. If your oil is dark, it can damage engine parts, so schedule an oil change ASAP with the service department at Peruzzi Toyota. OIL THAT LOOKS “CREAMY” OR “MILKY” That’s a sign that some kind of moisture has crept into the oil. Be aware of other indicators, such as coolant levels that drop faster than usual, or white smoke coming out of the tailpipe. That can indicate a leak in the head gasket. Before this critical part gives way altogether, schedule a service appointment at Peruzzi Toyota and save yourself a world of hurt. OIL THAT’S BOTH “CREAMY/MILKY” AND “FROTHY” When it comes to your motor oil, it’s not just the color – it’s the texture. If your dipstick indicates that your oil has a “milky” color, but it also looks a bit frothy, pay close attention. That means some serious water has gotten in to the works. That can cause engine damage over time. Make and appointment to have it checked (and fixed) as soon as possible. One final note regarding your motor oil: when you look at the dipstick, if it falls below the two “ticks” on the blade, you need a refill on this essential fluid. Remember that the service pros at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA are here to help you with oil changes – and any other kind of maintenance issues. We’ll keep your Toyota running at peak efficiency!

It’s no secret that gas prices are uncomfortably high right now. Filling the tank is a necessity for commuting to work, taking kids to school, running to the store and much more. But there are ways to make your fuel – and your dollars – go farther. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA offers these smart tips. USE AN APP There are some very cool apps out there that will alert you to the best deals near you. GasBuddy uses your location to share nearby stations with the best prices. GetUpside is another app that lets you earn cash back for your gas via check or PayPal. PAY CASH WHEN YOU CAN Cash payments usually warrant a cheaper rate at the pump versus using a credit cards an average of two cents per gallon. JOIN A FUEL REWARDS PROGRAM There are many gas stations that let you earn points with every fill-up to put towards future purchases. Consider the stations that you frequent the most, then look online for any of their rewards programs. REWARDS CREDIT CARDS As long as we’re talking “rewards,” so many credit cards have programs to give you all kinds of goodies just for using them. Some may have specific gas rewards, others “cash back.” Either way, it’s one way to save when you fill up your Peruzzi Toyota. SHARE RIDES Consider setting up a neighborhood carpool for planned things like picking up the kids from school or extracurricular activities, or a regular weekly grocery run. When you share some rides, you save money! USE THE RIGHT OIL Regular oil changes – like the ones provided by Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield – are key to keeping your Toyota running at its peak. But using the right oil is essential, too. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that the wrong grade can cost you anywhere from 3 to 6 cents per gallon in fuel efficiency! KEEP IT LIGHT… AND SLOW Two more tips for getting the most for your gas money: cut down on any excess weight in your Peruzzi Toyota, and regularly clean out any unneeded stuff. Also, when you accelerate, do it gradually. Stomping on the gas pedal eats up fuel. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield is all about saving you cash. Keep these helpful tips in mind to make your Peruzzi Toyota as fuel efficient and cost effective as possible!

We rely on our car without even thinking about it. From work, to school, to soccer practice or grocery runs, our vehicle is like a member of the family. Toyota makes some of the longest-lasting vehicles on the road, but even we recognize that nothing lasts forever. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has these helpful signs to gauge when it’s time to start shopping for a new car (and not for nothing, we have a great selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, plus financing plans to make getting in pain-free). SIGN 1: TOO MANY TRIPS TO FILL UP THE TANK As prices at the pump go up, you may want to consider a new ride if you find yourself filling up two times a week (or more). Your engine is losing efficiency, and at a certain point, there aren’t enough tune-ups in the world to reverse the trend. The good news is that Toyota offers some exceptional hybrids that will save you big money on fuel. For example, the Toyota Prius – available at Peruzzi Toyota – gets up to 58 mpg in the city. Those kinds of savings can make trading up well-worth it. SIGN 2: YOUR LIFESTYLE IS CHANGING There may have been a time when you were carting kids (and their friends) around every five minutes. But now? Not so much. At the other end of the spectrum, maybe you’re growing your family and need more room. Perhaps you’re mostly working “remotely” and not commuting as much. No matter what the scenario, have a look at how you’re actually living (and driving) today. SIGN 3: YOUR CAR IS COSTING YOU TOO MUCH If you find yourself at the repair shop more than you were a few years ago, your car is telling you that it may want to be retired. The costs of keeping it on the road are adding up. At some point, it just doesn’t make sense, especially with depreciation. If your repair costs are rivalling the actual value of the car, make the smart move and get a newer one. Sticking to the cold facts of cost-of-ownership can help you clearly see when it’s time to get a new vehicle. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is here to make that transition as simple – and affordable – as possible.

Since its introduction in 1997, Toyota’s Prius model has been beloved for its value, fuel-efficiency, and role in helping the environment. The Prius ( available at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA) is one of the best-selling hybrid vehicles on the market. Because it relies more on an electric battery than gas, you might have questions about battery power. Peruzzi Toyota is here to break it down for you. There are two kinds of Prius, the standard hybrid and the plug-in (PHEV) model aka the Prius Prime. The regular Toyota Prius is powered by a combination of gas and electricity charged through its regenerative braking. The plug-in model can store more energy in the battery, further reducing the need for gas. The question for both types of Prius is… how long does the battery last, and what impacts it? Toyota states that the average battery life for a Prius is 100,000-150,000 miles or between 8 and 10 years. However, just like anything, the way you treat your vehicle will have an effect. If you’re in an accident, for example, the battery cell may become damaged. A few things will indicate if your battery is heading south. Running rough. The hybrid battery transfers power to the wheels; if they “feel” awkward on the road, it could be a sign of a failing battery. Doesn’t hold a charge. Like any kind of battery, as your hybrid battery ages, you may find yourself needing to charge it up more frequently than before. Decreasing fuel-efficiency. The whole point of a hybrid is to reduce the need for gas. If you notice your fuel usage creeping back up, the battery may be responsible. Cold weather can also impact your Prius battery, draining it a bit faster than in temperate weather. And letting your vehicle “sit” for too long doesn’t do it any favors, although a warm climate will allow the Prius battery to hold a charge for anywhere from 3-6 months. If temperatures are colder, halve that number. If you determine that you need a new battery, expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. That’s still a lot less than the battery required for high-end hybrids made by Porsche and Ferrari. Once again, Toyota delivers value for their customers. Got more questions about the Toyota Prius or Prius Prime? Peruzzi Toyota is always here to answer them for you.

It’s a fact that cars are continually evolving. It’s another fact that many car owners aren’t up for trading in their perfectly good Toyota for the latest bells and whistles. Well, Toyota is addressing that with an ambitious new plan. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is excited to share the breaking news! In Japan, it’s being called “The Kinto Factory,” and the idea is to create upgrades that customers can easily install themselves. Drivers will be able to upload software updates for things including safety and driver-assist features like parking and lane-change. They can stay up to date – without having to buy a whole new vehicle. It’s a little like having a phone that updates to the latest version of itself. Of course, bigger items that need replacing are also on the Kinto Factory menu. They’re working on creating seats, steering wheels and other hardware items that can be swapped out by the owner. Toyotas are widely known as among the most reliable vehicles on the road, a quality treasured by practical drivers worldwide. But the automaker also recognizes that the pace of upgrades among competitors puts pressure on drivers to seek out new cars, possibly from other brands. The Kinto Factory is an ingenious way to have the best of both worlds. Owners wanting to take part are charged about $87 to access the program. That number may change as Kinto progresses. Currently, it’s in “test mode” in a few Japanese dealerships and limited to Prius and the Lexus; the idea is to eventually expand to the states and more Toyota models. As with many of their practices, Toyota is making a smart business move for the future. It’s designed to ensure that loyal customers can keep their favorite vehicle and keep it up to date without a lot of fuss as cars continually evolve. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield is proud to be part of a company that keeps their customer needs top of mind and does something to address them.

Let’s face it: your Toyota is like a second home, part of your daily routine. Driving to school, activities, Grandma’s house…it’s no wonder that the vehicle can get trashed pretty easily. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has seen it all (trust us) and compiled these helpful tips for making your ride kid-proof (more or less). WIPES, WIPES, AND MORE WIPES: Whether it’s baby wipes or antibacterial ones, they’re indispensable. They can clean up sticky hands, or sudden messes in the back seat. Keep a supply in your glove box and periodically check that they haven’t dried out. ADD A TRASH CAN: A large-ish plastic container (with a lid) is essential for your car. Get little ones in the habit of handing over their candy wrappers and unfinished snacks.  It will go a very long way in keeping control of the crumb situation (and there’s ALWAYS a crumb situation). Remember to empty it out and clean it on the regular, especially if food items are inside. A PORTABLE VACUUM CLEANER: This small, handheld device can do wonders when it comes to tidying up after messy kids. Keep it under the seat and give the back seat a regular going-over. ORGANIZE TOYS (AND STUFF):  Kids always insist on bringing something with them. Hang a shoe organizer on the back of the seat for them to stash things or utilize seatback pockets for books and tablets. Alternately, keep a Tupperware bin (with a lid) to store their stuff. Remember, if you’re ever in an accident, loose toys can become dangerous. ALL-WEATHER FLOOR MATS: When they’re climbing in with muddy shoes from soccer practice, or – well, from doing kid things – rubber floor mats with deep grooves will save your interior upholstery. They’ll catch spills, dirt, mud and more. The best part? You just shake them out or hose ‘em down and you’re good to go. Kids and your Peruzzi Toyota don’t have to be “incompatible.” Keep these simple tips in mind and keep your ride looking fresh!

You know how it goes: the first big snow of the season happens, and you realize you’re out of salt for the driveway. Life goes by fast, and Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA wants to help you prepare your vehicle for winter weather. Take some time now to review these helpful tips, many of which can be performed by our expert service technicians. Check your tire tread. In snowy or icy road conditions, you want to ensure that your tires are sound. The old-fashioned “penny test” can tell you: stick a penny in the tread groove. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, you need new tires. Fill your tires. Proper inflation of your Toyota’s tires will help give you more control any time of the year, but especially in winter. Change your oil and antifreeze. These essential fluids ensure your vehicle operates at peak efficiency during dicey weather conditions. Inspect your battery. Battery power lessens in cold weather, and you don’t want it dying on you. Check your heater. If you were to get stuck somewhere on a cold night, a good working heater could make all the difference. Ensure that it’s working properly. Make a Winter Emergency Kit. Include road flares, jumper cables, a flashlight (and extra batteries), and a windshield scraper. A small shovel, with a bag of rock salt to melt ice and snow, and a bag of kitty litter for traction is also a good idea. A set of reflectors and a neon flag to attach to your door is a smart safety addition. Stash a sturdy chain or rope for any needed towing help. In case you’re unable to access a digital map, an old-school paper roadmap is a good idea. Outside of the mechanical things, add a warm blanket, hat and gloves, a cell phone charger, and bottles of water/non-perishable snacks. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield knows that a little planning ahead will go a long way in preventing a lot of winter-driving aggravation!

Over the last couple of decades, cars have been moving away from the standard internal combustion engine that’s been around forever. Electric cars are getting plenty of buzz, but in the middle is the “hybrid,” which combines both gas and electric power. Even though Toyota introduced their beloved Prius in the late 90s – and they’ve gotten even better since then -- many consumers still harbor misconceptions about hybrid vehicles. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is here to clear up some of those myths. HYBRIDS HAVE TO BE PLUGGED IN Not necessarily. While there are some plug-in hybrids that offer a longer driving range, many hybrids typically utilize another power method. Regular hybrids combine gasoline and tools like “regenerative braking” to capture electrical energy and keep the engine juiced up. HYBRIDS ARE SUPER-EXPENSIVE When hybrids first arrived on the scene, they were in fact more costly than “normal” cars (aren’t all “new” things?). But that was then. Now, hybrids are priced along the lines of many internal combustion vehicles. HYBRIDS COST A TON TO REPAIR Actually, hybrids utilize many of the same parts as a regular vehicle and have compatibility with typical auto parts. The only part that may be more costly versus “normal” cars is replacing the battery. HYBRIDS ARE TRICKY TO DRIVE Driving a hybrid is really no different than driving an internal combustion engine (ICE) car. They’re built on the same kinds of frames and suspension, so the “feel” behind the wheel is the same. The one thing that might take a little getting used to is that they’re so much quieter than gas-powered vehicles. Like, a lot quieter. HYBRIDS HAVE NO “GET UP AND GO” Some assume that a hybrid doesn’t have the “oomph” of a gas-powered engine. In truth, the electric drivetrain in a hybrid adds a pretty impressive kick to the gas side. For example, Toyota’s RAV4 Prime ( available at Peruzzi Toyota) is among one of the brand’s fastest vehicles. HYBRIDS DON’T REALLY HELP THE ENVIRONMENT Sure, hybrids still burn some fossil fuels – and that’s not optimal for Mother Earth. But they burn far less than ICE’s. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good: until we’re fully into electric or hydrogen-cell vehicles, hybrids can still support the environment in an important way (and save you money on gas!). Got more questions about hybrids? We’re always happy to give you the lowdown at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA!

It’s a fact that vehicles are becoming more and more “connected.” It’s absolutely vital that we have access to the digital life we’ve built through our phones and more. Toyota is always on the leading edge of new technology for their vehicles, and one of the coolest new features is the “Driver’s Companion,” featured in the new Toyota Sienna. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is pretty excited about it, so here’s how it works. Essentially, the Driver’s Companion serves as a digital owner’s manual. Let’s be honest: how many of us actually read the thing? We just jump in and go. But then comes a moment when you’re not sure how to set your seats for maximum comfort or how to use the different camera features. Or what about all those buttons on the console? You’re scrambling for an answer. The Driver’s Companion in the Toyota Sienna is a voice-activated assistant – named “Joya,” by the way – who walks you through whatever you need or want to know. Driver’s Companion is synced to your particular vehicle through the VIN, so it knows every feature.  And there are a lot of great ones that you’ll want to be aware of, so let Joya make it easy to get the absolute most out of your Sienna! At the moment, Driver’s Companion is only available in the Toyota Sienna (which is available at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield). Yet, the automaker is always looking to connect more customers with leading-edge technology that makes driving safer, more convenient, and fun. From the suite of safety-sense features that alert you to too-close drivers, pedestrians, lane departure and more, to connectivity to your phone and infotainment, stop into Peruzzi Toyota to see the many ways our vehicles make driving better.

Car owners appreciate the look of a sweet, shiny paint job. It shows that your vehicle still retains the youthful glow it had when it rolled out of the showroom, and it will definitely help when it comes to resale time. Of course, real life gets in the way. Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has some tips to keep the exterior of your vehicle looking pristine. Here are the most common paint problems and how to avoid or fix them. BIRDS AND BUGS They’re everywhere, and around every day. Park under a tree for shade, and you’re likely to come away with at least one icky “splotch” from a bird. Plus, there are bugs that fly onto the hood during highway drives. Letting these little “oopsies” of nature sit unattended can affect your paint job with their acidity. For bird droppings, wipe it off with a combination of vinegar and water. Wet dryer sheets work really well on getting dead bugs off of your ride. WATER STAINS Water happens, and one of the most common paint stain issues is caused by hard water with its specific mineral deposits. The best way to keep it from attacking your paint? Wash and wax your Toyota vehicle regularly, ensuring that you thoroughly dry it in between. FINGERPRINTS You touch your Toyota vehicle more than you probably know. The oils and dirt on your mitts can leave an imprint on the paint job (in ways that can be damaging). Every so often, give a little wipe down around the door areas with some gentle dishwashing soap and a microfiber cloth. ASPHALT, PAINT, CEMENT Road construction sites are a paint job’s nightmare. There are a whole host of things that get kicked up onto your vehicle, even if you’re driving by slowly. Removing them and keeping your vehicle’s paint job intact requires patience and care. First, try an oil-based substance remover like WD-40 or Goo-Gone. Work oh-so-gently to ensure that all that road crud has been fully removed. Of course, if you need some serious paint fixes, Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA has a qualified body shop that can polish your Toyota up and keep it looking great!

Heat is a fact of life – especially in summer months! But even when it’s not super-warm outside, your hybrid vehicle can experience its own version of “overheating.” Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield, PA is proud to offer one of the best-selling lineups of hybrid vehicles – from the Prius to the RAV4, Highlander and more. We want our customers to know the ins and outs of their personal hybrid, so here are a few important things to know regarding how “heat” can affect it. The basic makeup of the hybrid combines a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) with a large electric battery that helps reduce fuel consumption. However, that large hybrid battery can be compromised by excessive heat, with one indicator a reduction in your fuel economy. The heat makes the ICE work harder, and over time, it can damage the battery and make charging it harder and less efficient. Toyota typically places the hybrid battery pack under the back seats, where it won’t interfere with either interior space or the undercarriage. To keep things cool and operating at peak efficiency, the vehicle recirculates air from inside and blows it across the battery pack. To ensure that the air is in fact cool, run the A/C on hot days. Putting a tinted coat on your windows can also go a long way in reducing heat inside and also prevents overexerting your air conditioning system. These simple tips will do a lot to ensure that your hybrid battery pack remains functional, helping to give you the best fuel economy possible. However, if you notice something has gone “off,” the service technicians at Peruzzi Toyota in Hatfield are always here to check things out. We can ensure that your hybrid battery is up to speed or replace it if it’s somehow been damaged. You’ll be back to peak fuel-efficiency (and lowering emissions) in no time!

So, you see an ad on Craigslist or Facebook posted by someone selling their vehicle. The ad sounds great – and so does the price. Should you go for it? The answer is…maybe. Peruzzi Toyota has years of experience working with customers who want a reliable, affordable used car. You can see their fleet of well-cared-for, pre-owned vehicles at their Hatfield, PA location. But in case you’re itching to check out that Craigslist ad, here are warning signs to be aware of. The interior smells of cigarette smoke. It’s a smell that’s notoriously hard to get rid of, no matter how much you clean or how much air-freshener you use. As time goes on, it will only get worse, so if you catch a whiff, best to pass. The oil is dirty. Old oil will be dark and likely contain dirt and other contaminants. This is a sign that one of the most key maintenance tasks has been neglected. What else did the owner overlook? The coolant is low and/or dirty. As long as you’re checking out the oil, have a look at the coolant level. If it’s not topped off, that’s another sign that the vehicle has been ignored. Signs of neglect. Lots of dings, dents, stains, or interior smells may indicate that bigger things – like the engine – may have also been overlooked over time. And no matter how good the deal sounds, you could wind up paying a lot more in the future. Fake “fix its.” Some sellers try to cover up certain issues with fast, cheap “band aids.” Take a closer look to see what they may be hiding. Signs of accident damage. It may look like a minor fender-bender, but if you spot what looks like damage from an accident, ask about it. Get the details on what happened and how it was repaired. While you’re at it, ask for the repair and warranty paperwork. Check the records. Most owners have some kind of documentation as to how the vehicle was kept up or repaired, like records of oil changes or installation of new brakes. If the seller doesn’t have them, follow up with questions about any accidents, etc. Of course, one way to be confident of your used-car purchase is to check out Peruzzi Toyota’s wide-selection of pre-owned vehicles at our Hatfield, PA location. They’re thoroughly inspected to ensure reliability. So, come and check it out!