3 Ways Toyota Helps the Local Community
Toyota has always been in the business of giving back. Thanks to the company’s success, local communities across the country have benefited from Toyota charities and organizations, which alone is a great incentive for buying a Toyota.
Donating Efficiency
In 2013, Toyota partnered with the New York food bank to improve the nonprofit’s service, boosting their efficiency and helping the organization help more people. New York City’s food bank is the country’s largest anti-hunger charity, which is why Toyota approached the organization with the offer of “kaizen,” the Japanese word for “continuous improvement.” Toyota was able to help the food bank revamp its operations and reduce wait times from 90 minutes to 18.
Giving Cars to Charity
One of Toyota’s most noted charitable actions in recent years is its Hundred Cars for Good campaign. More than 3,000 non-profit groups applied for the car donation program, and 500 finalists were selected. The finalists were then sorted through, thanks to a social media campaign that allowed the public to vote on their favorite organizations. Toyota gave a new car to 100 non-profits who won the competition.
Sports Sponsorships
Toyota is invested in social development so that future generations can create a brighter future. One way the company has helped realize this vision is through sports sponsorships. Toyota has created and continuously supports a variety of community-centered sports projects around the globe, all with the aim of sharing a strong foundation of dreams, hope, and enthusiasm.
It’s nice to know that your car company cares enough to give back. Stop in today to see how you can support Toyota’s vision.
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4 Ways to Avoid Mechanic Scams
Auto mechanics can get away with a lot, especially when customers aren’t familiar with the workings of their vehicles. Avoid scams by following these simple tips.
1. Ask for Evidence
Even if you aren’t familiar with individual parts and components in your car, you can still ask to see evidence of a problem. For example, if your mechanic recommends replacing the spark plugs, request to see the current spark plugs as they usually show physical, telltale signs of damage. Filters also look dirty when it’s time for replacement, so request to see the old filters before opting for this service.
2. Track Maintenance Timelines
The manufacturer of your automobile will have a recommended timeline for maintenance services. If you don’t keep track of these services, your mechanic could try to talk you into doing one before it’s needed. Keep reminders in your phone or on your calendar so you know exactly when the service comes due.
3. Consider the Dealership
Repair shops that are part of automotive dealerships are often held to higher standards than standalone shops, which means that scams are less frequent. Dealerships also work closely with automotive manufacturers, so their employees are usually more familiar with recommended service timelines, OEM parts, and guidelines for handling repairs and maintenance honestly and efficiently.
4. Ask Others
Referrals are great, so ask around to find out who your friends and family members use for vehicle service.
You can avoid auto scams and save your hard-earned money by steering clear of untrustworthy mechanics that will overcharge for services you may not even need.
Image via Flickr by Mark Ittleman
It may come as a surprise that the highest number of accidents occurs during the months of July and August. Most drivers think that winter is the time when road conditions are poor, but there are also hazards that come along with summertime driving.
1. Overheating
When the weather is warm, many people head out on road trips to take advantage of the pleasant temps. Overheating is a common problem, so check your coolant and oil levels before you embark on an adventure.
2. Road Construction
It’s easier for construction workers to take on projects when the days are longer and the weather is warmer. As a result, road construction is at an all-time high throughout much of the summer. Watch out for cones and barrels, get over sooner rather than later when you see closure signs, and slow down to prevent accidents.
3. More People
Many people enjoy spending time outside during the summer months, which means that kids and pets could dart out into the road chasing after a toy or ball. Keep a close eye on sidewalks when you drive in residential areas, and always obey speed limits.
4. Vacation
With breaks from school, families often take summer vacations. This means there are more cars on the road heading to various destinations. Plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to and from work, school, or even your own vacation destination.
Although there are hazards, you can keep yourself and your family members protected from hazardous driving conditions this summer.
Image via Flickr by Marcus Povey
3 Tire Maintenance Tips for Your Toyota
Tires may not be the first thing you worry about when it comes to your Toyota, but they should be high on the list. Here are three tire maintenance tips to keep your Toyota running smoothly.
Trade Your Penny for a Quarter
When discussing tread depth, the most common recommendation is to use the penny test: place a penny one of the grooves with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, your tires need to be replaced. However, recent research suggests that a quarter provides a safer standard.
Check Your Tires When They’re Cold
Monitoring your tire pressure is important, as it can affect both the handling and fuel economy of your vehicle. To get the most accurate measurement, check when your tires are “cold” — that is, when they have not been used in the last three hours — since the heat and friction of driving will increase tire pressure.
Get Professional Help
You may be able to rotate and repair your tires yourself if you have the proper tools. However, to get the longest life and safest use out of your tires, you need a mechanic to properly balance and align them. It’s not a bad idea to let a professional handle the rotations and any repairs, too, while you’re there.
Whatever you do, don’t throw away the owner’s manual for your Toyota. No matter where you buy your tires, the vehicle manual will tell you when they need to be rotated, how to do it, what’s the optimal tire pressure, and other important information.
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The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is back for 2017 and better than ever! If you’re in the market for a new pickup, this model offers plenty to get excited about.
Better Performance
The new Tacoma TRD Pro raises the bar over its predecessor. The truck features a 3.5-liter V6, TRD-tuned front springs and rear suspension, 4WDemand that allows you to go from 2WD to 4WD while in motion, trailer-sway control, and an electronically controlled locking rear differential. Whether you’re buying the truck for the daily commute or rugged off-roading adventures, the Tacoma is designed to handle it all.
Rugged Exterior
The 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro has been revamped to perform exceptionally well in the toughest off-road environments. This means enjoying a few perks like reinforced tires, projector-beam headlights, TRD Pro aluminum front skid plates, black bezel-enhanced taillights, a heritage-inspired front grille, and a color-keyed rear bumper. A more rugged exterior means being able to take on any adventure.
Sporty, High-Tech Interior
The Tacoma may be rugged inside and out, but it’s nice to know that Toyota hasn’t forgotten any high-tech features that make the driving experience more convenient. The new Tacoma TRD Pro boasts a 4.2-inch color multi-information display, a GoPro mount, a leather-trimmed tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with Bluetooth and audio controls, rear parking assist, and Toyota’s Entune premium audio system with integrated navigation and an app suite.
When it’s time to shop for a new truck, be sure to test drive the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. We’re confident you’ll love it.
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Maintaining the Paint on Your Toyota
It doesn’t matter what color or model of Toyota you own, you want to keep your vehicle looking shiny and new for as long as possible. Even though it can be a bit challenging to guard your vehicle’s paint against the elements, it’s worth taking these steps to protect your investment. Here are a few tips for how to maintain the paint on your Toyota.
Keep it Clean
Regularly wash your Toyota to remove pollen, bird droppings, and pollution-related residue. All of these compromise your vehicle’s paint if they’re left on the surface for an extended period. If you live where there’s snow or ice in winter, your car likely gets exposed to chemicals placed on the road to melt the slush. Some of these chemicals cause rust and corrosion if they’re left on your vehicle.
Shelter It
Limit your vehicle’s exposure to paint-compromising substances by parking it in a garage or under a covered shelter when possible. Also, avoid parking under trees, which can shower your vehicle with pollen and debris. Parking near a sprinkler or leaving the car out in the rain is a bad idea because the minerals left on the car after the water evaporates can interact with the paint, and are very difficult to remove.
Wax on, Wax Off
This isn’t just a memorable line from the Karate Kid. Waxing your Toyota a couple of times a year protects the paint by adding a protective layer to the surface. It even removes minor blemishes and scratches.
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3 Top Free Things to Do in Hatfield
If you live in Hatfield, Pennsylvania, there are a number of free things to do. Why break the bank going out for a dinner and movie when you can enjoy free activities that make for a fun outing? To help you plan your “free” time, here’s a list of things to do in town that won’t cost you a dime.
Take a Drive to the Hatfield Auto Museum
With exhibits that range from tiny toy cars to full-size antique vehicles, this museum is located in what used to be a car showroom. This attraction is a great place to spend an afternoon, and there’s no admission fee. The museum’s host, Todd Wish, encourages visitors to ask him about buying, selling, repairing, and trading vehicles. When you’re finished viewing the classic and antique cars, there’s a 19th century pool table on the second floor that guests can use.
Check out the Walnut Street Cabin
Hatfield Township owns this park, which includes two full acres. The centerpiece is a cabin that local scouts built more than 60 years ago, and it still hosts scout meetings to this day. The cabin is available to reserve for private events. Stroll through the park and enjoy its full-grown trees, stream, and footbridge.
Dive Into the Hatfield Aquatic Center
Sharky’s Volunteer Program lets you earn one free pass to the aquatic center for every two hours you volunteer. This is a great way to get in free to a multiple pool facility that caters to adults and families.
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3 Spring Events in Montgomery County, PA
Spring is the perfect time to get out and enjoy blooming flowers and warmer weather. Here in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, another reason to celebrate spring is with all the exciting events and festivals. Below we’ve recommended some top fun spring things to do and see.
Sapsucker Festival
The impending first day of spring means that the sap is beginning to build up in trees, which also means it’s time to sample it. On March 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove celebrates all sapsuckers and their sweet teeth with a day of pancakes and tree-tapping demonstrations. Certainly a unique experience, this event will definitely put you in the spring mindset, not to mention whet your appetite.
dineKOP Restaurant Week
Many cities throughout the United States are experiencing the phenomenon known as restaurant week, and from March 7 to 13, the residents of Montgomery County get to experience it in King of Prussia. Featuring signature dishes and special prices from Bonefish Grill, LP Steak, Seasons 52, and more, this culinary experience will definitely leave your mouth watering.
St. Patrick’s Day Pléaráca
This St. Patrick’s Day, celebrate in style on the Colebrookdale Railroad. For one hour and 45 minutes, you’ll get to experience Irish merrymaking with a train ride complete with Guinness, corned beef and cabbage, and Irish coffee with dessert. So wear your green, gather up your friends, and get ready for a great March 17.
No matter what spring activity you choose to do, we know that you’ll have fun welcoming the sunny season.
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3 Free Things to Do in Montgomery County, PA
Free is fabulous, especially when you’re looking for fun things to do in your local area. Montgomery County, Pennsylvania offers plenty of activities and locations that won’t put a strain on your bank account. Here’s a list of three free activities in the county.
1. Visit the Valley Forge National Historical Park
There’s no fee to learn about the Revolutionary War history at this site. During the winter between 1777 and 1778, the Continental Army arrived at the Valley Forge encampment. Even though the troops were under General George Washington, they were lacking proper training. During their time here, they worked with a former member of the Prussian military. After staying about six months at Valley Forge, the army went on to successfully fight the British troops. Take a self-guided tour of the encampment area to see many of the park’s monuments.
2. Browse the Berman Museum of Art
Urinus College is home to the Berman Museum of Art, which opens its doors without charging admission. More than 70 sculptures are on the grounds surrounding the museum. Inside, the museum has rotating exhibits that range from portraits, paintings, and photography, as well as artwork by the college’s student artists.
3. Satisfy Your Curiosity at Asher’s Chocolate
Ever wonder how candymakers create delicious treats? Watch the experts at Asher’s Chocolates create their confections. This sweet shop has clear glass separating visitors from those making chocolates, making it easy to see how candy is made. Watching is free, but if you want more than a sample, you’ll have to open your wallet.
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3 Popular Day Trips from Hatfield
Living in Hatfield gives you all the benefits of living near a big city without all the hassles that come with life in downtown Philadelphia. It also means you live in an area that offers plenty of opportunities to make fun day trips. Check out this list of three popular day trips from Hatfield.
1. Experience the Simple Life in Lancaster
About an hour and a half from Hatfield, Lancaster is located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Nestled among rolling hills that create a pastoral landscape, this town and others nearby are home to a thriving Amish population. As a result, you can enjoy Amish meals, horse-drawn carriage rides, and quaint shops selling Amish-made quilts, jams, and furniture.
2. Go Back in Time in Downtown Philly
If you want to step back in history, drive an hour into downtown Philadelphia. Visit Independence Hall where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. The iconic Liberty Bell with its famous crack is also located in Philadelphia. Re-enactors are on hand at the Betsy Ross House to talk about her role in creating the American Flag.
3. Play in the Sand at Cape May, New Jersey
Pack up the car and make the two-hours and 15-minute drive to this picturesque town on the Jersey Shore. In addition to its gorgeous beaches dotted with colorful umbrellas during high season, there are family-friendly restaurants and locally-owned shops. Stately Victorian homes provide a pleasant backdrop as you walk from a parking spot on a tree-lined street to the beach.
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