Getting stuck on the side of the road if your car breaks down can be stressful for people who don’t have a plan in place for the situation. Usually, these situations are only stressful because you’re forced to make decisions in the heat of the moment. You can eliminate much of the stress felt during a minor roadside problem simply by having a plan in place for dealing with them. Here is some advice from Hatfield Toyota:
Have a Car Phone Charger Handy
Have you ever noticed that the few times you really need to use your cell phone the low battery light is flashing?! Or worse, it won’t turn on at all? Whether you thank Murphy’s Law for this or just a fluke – you can avoid the problem by keeping a phone charger for your car available. Having the ability to call for help if you break down or get into a minor fender bender can help you stay calm.
Make a List of Phone Numbers
Write down a list of phone numbers or store the numbers in your cell phone’s contact list of people and companies you could call in common roadside situations. These services may include locksmiths, tow services, roadside assistance companies, friends and family members.
Purchase Roadside Assistance Policy
If you don’t already have a roadside assistance plan included with your vehicle warranty, car insurance plan or cell phone plan – consider purchasing an AAA membership or other roadside assistance policy to cover you in the event of a minor roadside emergency.
In order to drive a vehicle legally, it is necessary to get it inspected and obtain a sticker that shows you have passed the inspection. Nearly 87% of all vehicles will fail their inspection during the first appointment, making it necessary for the car owner to get maintenance and repairs before they can schedule a second appointment for an inspection. Toyota Dealer near Philadelphia offers the following tips for helping you pass your inspection during the first appointment to save time and money:
Take Care of Glass Repairs Right Away
You may think that small crack, ding or scratch in your windshield is no big deal, but the longer you drive with these small glass problems, the bigger they will become. Many times, small glass problems can be repaired without replacing the windshield if they are caught soon enough – but if you wait; the crack will grow larger and spread across the windshield in most cases. Large windshield problems will prevent your vehicle from passing inspection.
Make Sure Lights are in Working Order
Before you go to your inspection appointment, take a second to check that your lights are all in working order. Test the headlights, reverse lights and turn signals. If any of them are not working, you can usually fix it easily by changing the light bulb or fuse.
Keep Up With Your Tire Maintenance
You need tires with decent tread on them to pass an inspection. If you want your tires to last as long as possible, make sure you get them rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. When the tread has worn out, get new tires so your car will remain safe to drive and will be more likely to pass inspection.
When it comes time to shop for a new car, most buyers start their search based on the vehicles that look the best to them. Just like you should never judge a book by its cover, you should never choose a car based on its appearance! Once you have narrowed down your options based on what a vehicle looks like, take some time to research other features like fuel economy, technology features and safety ratings. Your Pennsylvania Toyota dealership explains the safety features of the 2014 Toyota Highlander:
Toyota Star Safety System
The award-winning Toyota Star Safety System is included with the 2014 Highlander. The safety features of this system are more advanced than your average vehicle and include things like Electronic Brake-force Distribution, brake assist traction control, stability control and Smart Stop Technology. All safety features are designed to help drivers stay in control of their car in all driving conditions and to help prevent car accidents.
Advanced Airbags
In addition to the typical airbags you would expect all vehicles to have, the 2014 Highlander adds a knee airbag for the driver, and a seat-cushion airbag for the front seat passenger. Side curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted side airbags round out the collection of advanced airbags found inside the Highlander.
Other Standard Safety Features
In case of a collision, the 2014 Toyota Highlander provides front and rear energy-absorbing crumple zones to help minimize the impact of the collision on the driver and passengers.
There is a tire pressure monitoring system, blind spot monitor, downhill assist and hill start assist.
Find the 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid at Hatfield Toyota
We invite all skeptics to our Hatfield Toyota dealership to test drive the 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid! We have met many car shoppers who steer clear of hybrid vehicles simply because they are not educated about them. The unknown can be scary, but we’re confident if you check out the new 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid the fuel efficiency and performance will put the car at the top of your list.
Engine
Both trim levels of the Toyota Camry Hybrid feature a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder engine. The hybrid engine is capable of 200 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
Most car shoppers know the major advantage to a hybrid vehicle is the gasoline savings. The EPA estimates the Camry to get 39 miles per gallon on the highway and 43 miles per gallon in the city.
Safety Features
The 2014 Toyota Camry Hybrid features the Toyota Star Safety System. This system is a collection of safety features designed to give drivers more control over their vehicles or to help them regain control during challenging driving situations. In addition to the typical airbags expected in new vehicles, the Camry has anti lock brakes, Smart Stop Technology, traction control and Electronic Brake Distribution.
Interior Comfort and Technology
You and your passengers will enjoy a comfort ride whether you sit in the front or the back. The battery doesn’t take up valuable passenger space as it is positioned behind the back seats and in front of the trunk.
There is a 6.1” touch screen display to manage the Bluetooth and six speaker sound system. In the XLE trim, you get an upgraded 7.1” touch screen, navigation system and Entune App Suite.
Toyota Dealer Spotlights the 2014 Toyota Avalon
The Avalon has gone through a number of design changes to become the top of the line sedan in the Toyota line up. The 2014 Toyota Avalon gets top reviews for performance, comfort, appearance and technology. If you’d like to take a closer look or a test drive, visit our Philadelphia area Toyota dealership.
Trim Levels
There are four trim levels: XLE, XLE Touring, XLE Limited, and XLE Premium. In all trim levels, the driver and passengers enjoy extreme comfort and a luxurious interior featuring a wood trim and accents in smoked chrome. There is room for five people in the Avalon. The front seats are heated in all trim levels. To get heated backseats, you’ll want to look at the Limited trim level.
In the XLE, XLE Touring and XLE Premium, there is an 8-way adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. The passenger seat is 4-way adjustable.
In the Limited, the driver’s seat also has a cushion extension and is 10-way adjustable instead of 8, while the front seat passenger goes from a 4-way adjustable seat to an 8-way adjustable seat.
Engine
The 2014 Toyota Avalon has a 3.5-liter V6 engine and 6-speed, electronically controlled 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine is capable of 248 pounds per foot of torque and 268 horsepower. Four wheel drive comes standard on all trim levels.
Fuel Economy
The EPA estimates the 2014 Toyota Avalon gets 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. There are three 3 Avalon hybrid models, too.
The professionals know exactly how to clean your car from the inside out, but the services are often very expensive. Fortunately, with time and then right equipment, you can wash your car just as well. Toyota dealer near Philadelphia has tips to help you wash your car like a pro.
1. Avoid direct sunlight
Wash your car in a car port or in the shade. Avoid direct sunlight because it will dry to soap to the paint and leave water spots.
2. Wash by hand
Rinse the car first. Fill a bucket with water and car soap, and then start washing the car one section at a time. Use a wash mitt to clean the car and to remove debris from the paint without leaving scratches.
3. Use non-acid tire cleaners
Use a tire cleaner to clean the tires and wheels to remove debris and brake dust. Clean your tires before you clean and protect the car’s paint.
4. Start drying at the top
Start with trying the roof first, and then move to lights and glass to avoid water spots. When you are drying the vehicle, pay close attention to the wheels, the door jambs, and hidden areas.
5. Vacuum it out
If you have an air compressor, blow out dirt and debris from the vents, nooks and crannies in the interior, and the floor mats. Once you have loosened the dirt, run the vacuum over the interior and the floor mats.
6. Protect the paint
Polish the paint with an electric buffer, and then apply a protective coat of wax to the paint. Use a liquid spray wax in between seasons.
Americans are getting busier and busier, and their sleep is taking a hard hit. As we try to do more in less time, our sleep cycles get disrupted, and our minds and bodies get pushed to extreme limits. If you are taking on more and sleeping less, you might be putting yourself and others in danger. Hatfield Toyota wonders if you are at risk for drowsy driving.
Drowsy Driving Risk Factors
You may be at risk for drowsy driving without even knowing. Your schedule and your employment may put you at an increased risk.
- Commercial truck drivers
- Workers who work long shifts, graveyard shifts and swing shifts
- People who have sleeping problems or sleep disorders
- Drivers who are certain medications
- People who do not get at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep
- Drivers who have been using alcohol
How to Combat Drowsy Driving
Take steps to combat drowsy driving. If you experience chronic sleep problems, talk to your physician or consult a sleep professional.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule during the week and on the weekends
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and television before you go to bed
- Talk to your physician about medications you are on and how they affect your ability to drive
- Take frequent breaks when you are traveling long distances
- Consume caffeine or chew gum when you are on a road trip
- Listen to music with a lively and up-beat temp when on a road trip
- If you start to feel fatigued, pull over and take a small nap
If you have a road trip planned, make sure that you are well prepared for the journey. Once you have packed your bags and refreshed your car’s emergency kit, pack your medical emergency kit as well. Millions of diabetic patients are on the roads every day without any problems, but it takes planning and extra precautions to make sure you and others are safe on the road. Toyota dealer in the Trenton area has a driving checklist for diabetic patients.
- Did you pack extra supplies?
Make an emergency kit that includes extra supplies. Don’t pack the kit with your luggage; keep it up front where it is easily accessible.
- Did you check your glucose levels?
Check your glucose level before you leave the house.
- Where are your snacks?
Include snacks that don’t need to be refrigerated in your emergency kit.
- Did you tell someone where you are going?
Create an itinerary and make sure that a friend or family member knows where are going and where you will be at any given point during your trip. Keep them updated as you arrive at certain landmarks or towns.
- Did you get documentation?
Ask your doctor for a note to carry with you to alert first responders to your medical condition and needs. You should also have an emergency contact in your phone or on a slip in your emergency kit.
- Have you checked your levels on the road?
Make sure that you are taking small breaks and checking your glucose level frequently when you are traveling. When you check in with your family, check your glucose level as well.
- How are you feeling?
Be mindful of how your body is feeling when you travel. If you start to experience changes, pull over and check your glucose level. If your level is low, have a snack and wait 15 minutes before checking your level again. Don’t continue driving until you have stabilized.
Toyota Dealer is Impressed by the 2014 Toyota Venza
Toyota Dealer in the Trenton Area thinks the 2014 Toyota Venza is an exceptional combination of the best features of a crossover, SUV and wagon. If you’re looking for a vehicle that is stocked with features and unique in styling then the Venza is a great choice to meet your needs.
Exterior and Interior Styling
One of the best points of the 2014 Venza is it’s appearance. It has the modern exterior, complete with flashy grille, of an elevated stylish wagon or crossover SUV with the interior comfort and features of a luxury-like car. The interior has smooth surfaces and curved lines lending to a interior look that is both sharp and sophisticated.
Features
With three trim levels, the impressive features of the 2014 Toyota Venza only serve to further its across the board appeal. The base model LE features blind-spot side mirrors and puddle lamps as well as a Display Audio. The XLE upgrades these standard features with options such as power folding side mirrors, navigations with Entune multimedia and a 6.1 inch touchscreen display with backup camera. The luxury like Limited Edition adds LED daytime running light, premium audio system and upgraded navigation as well as front and rear parking sonar. In addition to the numerous options available in each trim level there is a premium package available that adds a panoramic glass moonroof, hands-free Bluetooth and music connectivity and more.
This vehicle has a broad appeal for those looking for the best of both worlds. The Venza offers the cargo and passenger room of a crossover SUV with the comfort and appealing options of a luxury car.
Both the Toyota Sienna and the Chrysler Town & Country are two of the most popular minivans available. Hatfield Toyota compares these two vans so that you can make the best choice when searching for a family vehicle that can meet your needs.
Chrysler Town & Country
The Chrysler Town & Country has a 3.6 liter V6 engine. This serves to have enough power to provide a smooth and quick ride for its passengers. The interior is attractive with plenty of room and second and third row seats that can be flipped or stowed depending on the model chosen. Entertainment features are one of the highlights with rear DVD entertainment packages, Bluetooth, touchscreen and satellite radio.
Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna features a 3.5 liter V6 engine. One of the highlights of this vehicle is that it gets exceptionally impressive fuel economy for a vehicle in this class at 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. All wheel drive is also an optional feature that is rarely found in other minivan competitors. The Sienna also offers a variety of trim levels in which the entertainment and interior features can be upgraded and customized. Standard features include Smartphone services as well as DVD packages and Sienna’s Entune system.
In comparing the two vehicles, it’s clear that both have excellent reputations and strong features. Ultimately though, while the Town & Country has a more powerful engine, the features, gas mileage and optional all wheel drive made Sienna the most reliable choice. Toyota has successfully navigated the minivan market with this impressive model that is sure to meet the needs of those looking for an excellent family vehicle.
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