More likely than not, you’ve heard the term crossover and crossover SUV when people talk about specific type of vehicles. These days, it almost feels like a buzzword. So, this begs the question: what makes something a crossover and what makes something just a regular SUV? Is there a strict set of criteria? Is one just a subclass of the other?
What are the differences between a crossover and a regular SUV? Read the rest of this entry
For those of us that live in the Midwest, like northern Illinois, heavy winter storms are the norm. If you’ve ever been stranded in a storm, then you know exactly how scary it can be, especially if you’re unprepared. That’s why we decided to put together this list of emergency items that you may want to add to your current emergency kit. This is by no means a comprehensive list and we are by no means survival experts, but this list should help you figure out…
What emergency items should I keep in my car over winter? Read the rest of this entry
For many, where a car is made is important. For some, it’s the novelty of experiencing different cultures. Owning a foreign car in a domestic market is a great conversation starter and a way to expand one’s horizons. Others may want to support the domestic market, wishing to contribute to a robust economy or support local industry. Or maybe you don’t think about it at all.
Whatever your reasons, people like knowing where their cars are made. So, that begs the question…
Where is the 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid made? Read the rest of this entry
For those of us that deal with harsh winters, like the kind we get in the Midwest, one of the worst feelings is not being able to start your car. Many people do the usual stuff to winterize their vehicles, like changing windshield wipers, changing their oil to lower viscosities, or getting a new battery. One thing you have heard of is putting a gas additive or gas-line antifreeze in your vehicle. What does it do? Is it worth the money?
Should I use gas-line antifreeze during the winter? Read the rest of this entry
Getting a chip in a windshield really sucks. Chips and cracks are distracting and frustrating in equal measure, especially when it comes to repairing them. Is there an easy way to do it? Do I just need to get my windshield replacement?
Let us help you.
Here’s how to fix a crack in a windshield. Read the rest of this entry
Having worn-out wipers is terrible. We’ve all experienced, at one point or another, having wipers that don’t clear the windshield. It’s usually right in your line of sight too, making you have to sit at odd angles to try and see out of your vehicle. There’s a simple fix to this: new wipers. However, if you’re not used to doing maintenance on your own vehicle, then going to the wiper aisle at your local department store can be intimidating. With different brands, lengths, types, and weather-configurations, there’s well over a hundred options. That experience can easily leave you asking yourself…
What kind of wiper blades should I get for my vehicle? Read the rest of this entry
Cruise control is a great feature. If you do a lot of highway driving, then it’s a godsend. Not having to micromanage your speed frees up your senses to focus on other things like that jerk that’s tailgating you while you’re in the slow lane. But seriously, being able to focus on something other than the accelerator lets you pay more attention to the road and other drivers. More awareness equates to safer driving conditions for everyone.
So if your cruise control isn’t working, it can be a real pain.
Why is the cruise control not working in my Toyota? Read the rest of this entry
With the New Year just around the corner, New Year’s resolutions are being made. For many of us, living healthier, learning a new skill, or helping out in the community are common desires. Today, we’ll be looking at places that could use your help around Palatine. To help you stick to those resolutions, we’ve compiled a list of places where your time and energy will be well spent and appreciated.
Here’s where you can volunteer in Palatine, IL. Read the rest of this entry
You may have come across internet posts or articles that warn against buying a used hybrid vehicle because the hybrid battery is built to last only a few years. Usually it’s a super small number like 2-3 years, 5 if the writer is being generous. The story usually involves an unlucky buyer that goes to a dealership or a private buyer, gets what they think to be a good deal, only for the hybrid battery to go kaput almost immediately afterwards. Some of these stories are true, no doubt. Which can leave potential buyers wondering…
Is buying a used Toyota hybrid a good idea? Read the rest of this entry
Hybrid technology has evolved considerably over the years, making hybrid vehicles better for the environment and better for your wallet. The benefits are incredibly drastic for anyone who does a decent amount of city driving. For those that live in urban areas, hybrids should be at the top of your list when looking to get a new vehicle. With hybrid gas mileage almost doubling that of normal combustion engines, it’s a no-brainer.
So then, hybrids are great. But which 2020 Toyota models are hybrids? Read the rest of this entry