Monday, December 17, 2012

There are quite a few ways to prepare your car for safer driving in the winter. Today’s Monday Maintenance Tip is: Check your tire pressure

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Here are two good reasons to get down there with the gauge and unscrew the valve caps as the weather cools:

1) Tires lose a pound of pressure for every drop of 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

2) An underinflated tire won't "bite" through snow down to the pavement as well as one at pressure. It's similar to hydroplaning on water -- and just as dangerous. You may have heard the guidance to let air out of your tires for sand or snow to get more contact surface area. That only applies only if the surface is bottomlessly soft, like a beach or foot-deep, unplowed snow -- not the mix of cleared road, ice and packed snow most of us encounter in daily driving.

Don't forget to put the valve caps back on (or, buy new ones) when you're done. Letting in moisture, which then freezes, could let the valve core leak out air.

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Car and Driver Magazine Names FR-S to 10Best Cars of 2013!

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TORRANCE, Calif., (Dec. 5, 2012) – The Scion FR-S earned recognition today from Car and Driver, the world's largest automotive publication, as part of its “10Best” cars of 2013. The magazine highlights the best cars for under $80,000 available on showroom floors in January 2013. Scion introduced the FR-S earlier this year to positive industry reviews and consumer excitement. The FR-S shares its spot on the list with the Subaru BRZ.
 
“Making the Car and Driver 10Best list in its first year is another example of the energy and enthusiasm building around the FR-S and the fun driving experience it offers,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “The success of the FR-S reflects the Scion mission to give drivers vehicles that fit their lifestyles and express their individuality.”
 
The FR-S features a lightweight design and 2.0-liter flat boxer engine capable of producing an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Affordability and performance have made the FR-S a fast favorite since it arrived in U.S. showrooms in June.
 
The 2013 Car and Driver 10Best awards list and FR-S commentary will be featured in the January issue, on newsstands today.


Courtesy of Scion USA Newsroom

Monday, December 10, 2012

Good afternoon, everybody! Today's Monday Maintenance Tip is: Maintain your car’s battery.

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Maybe the manufacturer says your battery is maintenance free, but don’t you believe it! Check your battery regularly to extend its life and avoid the hassle of being stranded with a dead battery.
• Begin with the simple: keeping your battery clean. A dirty case can actually cause current to drain. Wipe with a damp rag. Use a mild detergent if necessary.
•  Next, clean the battery posts or terminals. Loosen and remove the negative cable (black or minus sign) first, then the red positive cable. Use a brass wire battery brush dipped in a paste made from a few tablespoons of baking soda and a little water.
•  Inspect the battery case for damage, such as cracks or bulges — signs that a battery needs to be replaced.
•  Reinstall the cables, positive first, and coat the terminals and clamps with a thin coating of grease to prevent new corrosion.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Respect for the Planet: Toyota's 2012 Report Details Commitment to the Environment

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Toyota today highlighted its sustainable manufacturing advancements and commitment to environmental leadership as the automaker released its 2012 North America Environmental Report. The report spans Toyota operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico over the fiscal year, including research and development, manufacturing, logistics and sales. Toyota remains the most fuel-efficient full line auto manufacturer in the United States and the industry hybrid leader.
 
Toyota believes sustainable operations go hand-in-hand with our core values of quality, innovation and good corporate citizenship,” said Dian Ogilvie, senior vice president and secretary, Toyota Motor North America, Inc.  “We are committed to continuous improvement and finding creative ways to address the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity with dedicated leadership and the help of our partners.”
 
The report also measured Toyota North American operations against one-year goals in compliance, air emissions, energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, waste minimization and water use. Key partnerships, industry trends and insight on consumer preferences also guide Toyota’s efforts in serving both the planet and its people.
 
To view the 2012 North American Environmental Report, please visit www.toyota.com/about/environmentreport2012

Courtesy of Toyota USA Newsroom

Monday, December 3, 2012

Hello, everyone! We hope you all had a nice weekend! Well, December is upon us and we have a seasonal Monday Maintenance Tip for you! Today's tip: Run your AC in winter.

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Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE To keep your car’s air-conditioning system fit for the next warm season, run it a few times throughout the winter. This will prevent moving parts in the compressor from seizing. Also, circulating the refrigerant will help keep the seals soft and pliant.