If you’re in the market for a new car, you might be asking yourself if you should get a brand new one or a used one. Most people tend to want to lean towards getting a new car because they think they are getting so much more for their money, but that is not always the case. Our Scion dealer near La Grange talks about some of the benefits of buying a used car over a new car.

Price

Of course the price is a pretty major reason why you should consider choosing a used car over a new one.  A used car is going to be less expensive. Perhaps the best advantage of this is that you can usually step up to a nicer model when you go the used route.

Insurance

You can save yourself even more money since a used car will have lower insurance rates. It is best that you a do a little research on this beforehand so you know what you’re up against.

Depreciation

When you buy a new car, it starts to lose value right away. It will actually lose almost half of its value just in the first year alone. So, when you buy a used car, you don’t have to worry about depreciation as soon as you drive off the lot. Another good thing is that chances are the vehicle has already undergone minor damage, such as dings and dents here and there, so you won’t be nearly as stressed out about keeping the vehicle perfect.

Since most people cannot afford to just buy a new car with cash, they are faced with the decision of whether to lease one or take out a car loan. There are advantages and disadvantages of both. Are you faced with the decision of whether to lease or buy a new car? Our Chicago area Toyota dealer explains the benefits of both.

Leasing a Car

With leasing, you are usually able to get more for less money due to the fact that the lease price is based on only a percentage of the price of the car, whereas when you buy a car it is based on the full price. If you have less money to spend, leasing may be better for you. You can also leave a much lower down payment. You will have peace of mind knowing that most repairs will be covered under warranty. Leasing will make affording the more luxurious and high-tech features easier. You never have to worry about selling the car since all you need to do is simply turn it in when you’re done.

Buying a Car

The best part of buying a car is probably the fact that the car is all yours. Once the loan is up the car belongs to you. You’re free to do whatever you please to it with no consequences. This will save you money in the long run. You have no mileage restrictions. This is especially nice if you drive a lot.

Buying a used car can not only be a very good way to save yourself some money, but it can be a very good way to get the most out of your money. Just make sure that you know what to look out for before you start shopping. Our Toyota dealer near Chicago tells you what to look out for when buying a used car.

The Exterior

Take a good look at the exterior of the vehicle. Check out are the car’s form, frame, paint job, tires, trunk, and exhaust system. Be sure that the car sits level on the ground. Make sure that the frame is not damaged. Check the paint job for scratches, dents, and rust. Make sure that the trunk is in good condition. Check that the tires are aligned properly and are in good condition. Look at the exhaust system to see if there are any signs that it has been leaking.

The Interior

Of course you are going to want to thoroughly check out the interior as well. Check the seating and the upholstery for any rips or stains. Check out things like the radio, the ventilation system, and the computer system. Check the mileage. Definitely take the car for a test drive, paying special attention to the brakes and the transmission.

Under the Hood

Always pop the hood and look for rust or damage. Take a look at all of the belts and hoses. Check the engine for any leaks or corrosion. Check all of the fluids, not forgetting about the oil.

If you’re looking to help out the environment while also helping out your wallet, then you should consider getting a Toyota Camry Hybrid. This vehicle is not only fuel efficient, but it is safe, reliable, and spacious. It received a major overhaul for 2015, making it better than ever. The interior has been refreshed, and the exterior has been completely redesigned. Go green with a 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE from your Toyota dealer near La Grange.

Performance

The 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE has a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder engine that is combined with an electric motor, which will give you 200 horsepower. It has a continuously variable speed automatic transmission. It has front wheel drive. You will get amazing fuel efficiency, with 40 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway.

Popular Features

The 2015 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE has many people-pleasing features all around. The driver has a powered bucket seat. The front passenger has a bucket seat, and the rear seats are folding. It has comfortable premium cloth upholstery. The audio system has an AM/FM radio, a CD player, color screen and touch screen. You will have steering wheel audio controls, 6 speakers, cruise control, a trip computer, a tilt telescoping steering wheel, and power steering and EPS. The ventilation system has a micro filter, passenger ventilation controls, and dual-zone climate control. It has rear camera parking distance sensors.

According to the IIHS, the Toyota Avalon is a 2015 top safety pick. It is one of the safest choices in the large car market, with outstanding results in its safety tests. It offers a long list of safety features to back up its outstanding safety ratings. Find out what makes the 2015 Toyota Avalon from your Chicago area Toyota dealer a top safety pick for 2015.

Safety Ratings

The 2015 Toyota Avalon was given good ratings in all categories of crashworthiness, which included head restraints and seats, roof strength, side test, moderate overlap front test, and small overlap front test. These ratings were based on how the test dummies held up in the tests. Overall, they all showed that the risk of significant injuries were minimal in crashes of that severity. The roof strength is above average, with a strength-to-weight ratio of 5.22. The average is 4. The seats and the head restraints proved to have good protection that will help to prevent whiplash injuries.

Safety Features

The 2015 Toyota Avalon offers an impressive airbag system that will protect all parts of your body from many different angles. It includes side airbags, head airbags, and torso airbags. The torso airbags are seat-mounted on both the front and the rear. It offers knee airbags for both the driver and the front passenger, which are located in the instrument panel. These will help to protect your knees in a frontal crash. Other safety features include ABS, electronic stability control, and daytime running lights.

If you’re searching for that perfect family vehicle, but not really sure where to start, Toyota has got your covered. Your La Grange area Toyota dealer has some great options for your family.

Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna received lots of refreshments and new features for 2015. The interior has been redesigned. It is very spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to eight passengers. It offers excellent cargo space as well. It offers you a long list of family-friendly features. After all these years, the Sienna remains the only minivan with all-wheel drive. Whether you’re hauling your family on a snowy road trip, or simply just driving them around town, this vehicle is a great choice.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers you three rows of amazing style and comfort. You will be able to fit up to eight passengers. You will have lots of storage space, not only your cargo, but for all of your small personal items as well. This includes a huge oversized center console. This vehicle gives you a nice, quiet, but powerful ride. It is reliable, popular, and not to mention has a great resale value.

Toyota Camry

If you’d prefer a car over an SUV, why not go with one of America’s top sellers? That’s exactly what the Toyota Camry is. This vehicle will ride 5 passengers in great comfort. It gives you a nice and easy drive every time. It has a very attractive style, legendary reliability, a wide variety of features, and a high resale value.

There have been a lot of changes to vehicle safety over the years. When airbags we first introduced in the 1980s, for example, many saw it as the peak of advancement. Turns out, in America, it only takes a little time to outdo ourselves. Your Chicago Area Toyota and Scion dealer explain what it means to have intelligent airbags.

The Basic Model

Everyone by now is familiar with the basic airbag. A large bag is packed into the steering wheel or the dashboard and a compressor fills with air during an accident to absorb some of the impact instead of having your head hit any hard surface.

The Problems

Over the years, experts found that the one-size-fits-all airbag wasn’t working as well as it could. In fact, it was causing more harm than good in some cases. People who were too light, not sitting upright, or were not wearing a safety belt could get seriously injured. Likewise, an airbag deploying where a person isn’t sitting can pose a risk to the driver.

The Intelligence

The solution has been to use a number of sensors in the seat and the seat belt area to determine certain things. First and foremost, your car can detect whether someone is even sitting there. It can determine height, weight, and even a person’s posture.

The Possibilities

Using what are called dual-stage or multi-stage airbags, newer compressors can actually adjust the amount of air and the force with which the bags are deployed. This allows them to adjust to crash conditions and maximize protection.

It’s pretty amazing to think that only ten years ago, more than half of the features in your 2014 or 2015 model were unthinkable. Ten years ago, the idea of automated systems or travelling Wi-Fi hot spots was unthinkable. Your La Grange Area Toyota and Scion dealer tells you what to expect in the next five years.

Autonomous Features

The idea of a driverless car is not new, but as sensor technology becomes more sophisticated, the more likely it is that various systems in your car will completely override you. Right now, a car can apply brakes before you even touch the pedal, but in the future, it’s likely that your car will take matters into its own hands in an emergency regardless of what you do.

Head-Up Displays

Organic Light Emitting Diodes are the next generation of LEDs. Right now, speed and some other information can be projected onto a windshield, but OLEDs will allow it to be interactive and high definition. Navigation will appear on your windshield and augmented reality as well.

Vehicle Tracking

As more and more vehicles are connected to the Internet, tracking vehicles becomes that much easier. As the technology becomes more common, it’s likely that insurance companies and possibly government administrations will monitor the number of miles driven.

Active Health Monitoring

Among the technologies that will coincide with the consumer market, Bluetooth will allow for vehicles to monitor the general health condition of the driver and passengers. This will mean things like pulse rate can be monitored for safety.

The auto market is getting pretty crowded. There are dozens of manufacturers out there who all have multiple offerings for the driving public. Google has been getting into the game with its driverless car and insurance. Not to be outdone, Apple has let it leak that they, too, will be entering the auto industry and your Chicago Area Toyota dealer wants to tell you all about it.

The What

Recently, a source high in the Apple organization made it clear that Apple is actively seeking the means to design and produce a driverless electric car. The move would compete directly with the likes of Google, known for their driverless technology, and companies like Tesla who are quickly bring EVs to market. Apple is reported to be reaching out to development companies and possibly even looking to poach industry leaders to spearhead the initiative.

The Why

The writing is on the wall. Electric vehicles are most certainly going to be a big part of the future. Almost every major car company from Kia to BMW are developing or releasing an EV or two. As infrastructure and charging stations are improved, that’s only going to increase. As for driverless technology, more and more companies are seeing the benefit in small changes that add up to a lot. The NHTSA has already announced they’re considering making automatic braking and crash avoidance systems mandatory.

The Result

If we’ve seen anything, it’s that Apple has remained a trendsetter for over a decade. With Google and Apple in the mix, you can bet that more than a few smaller competitors are going to get in the game as well. Expect to see more and more EVs and automated systems working their way into 2016s and beyond.

Power is one of those irresistible things. The power of an engine is part of what built America. If you’re looking for power in a pre-owned vehicle, look no further. Your La Grange Area Toyota and Scion dealer has these great deals on monster engines.

2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland

Possibly the most iconic SUV on the road, the Jeep name is synonymous with power. The Grand Cherokee has a 5.7-liter V8 engine that pumps out 330 horsepower and 375 pounds of torque. Capable of handling a payload over 1,000 pounds and towing over 7,000 pounds, the four-wheel drive and four-wheel anti-lock brakes give you complete control. Inside, a six-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system gives you the tunes to match the power.

2013 Toyota Tundra

In case you need something a bit more open, the Tundra also sports a 5.7-liter V8 engine, but can deliver 381 horsepower and 401 pounds of torque. That means a payload of over 1,500 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 9,000 with its four-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic transmission gives you efficiency while the manual mode gives you added control. Inside, twelve JBL speakers blast your favorites to and from the job site.

2010 Chrysler 300

Not all power has to be for hauling, of course. The 300 features another 5.7-liter V8 engine with overhead cam, capable of 360 horsepower and 389 pounds of torque. Since you won’t be towing, the 300 features a six-speaker Boston Acoustics audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather interior, and heated seats.

Truck owners see the world a little differently than car people. They see the world in terms of to-do lists and projects, of accomplishments and hard work. As a result, they look for different things in their vehicles. Your Chicago Area Toyota dealer gets it and recommends the 2015 Tacoma.

Power

The Tacoma boasts a 4.0-liter V6 engine with dual overhead cams, multi-point fuel injection, and variable valve timing. Consequently, it offers 236 horsepower and 266 pounds of torque at the same time as an EPA-estimated 21 miles per gallon on the highway.

Potential

Using four-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, the Tacoma can take on over 1,300 pounds in the sizeable bed and up to 6,500 pounds in towing capacity. With a spacious double cab, the Tacoma seats a crew of five. Meanwhile the anti-lock, ventilated disc brakes keep you in control of whatever you carry.

Prevention

Speaking of brakes, electronic brake force distribution helps to stop fast when you need to. Electronic traction and stability control help keep you on the road while the advanced airbag system in the front protects you from the unexpected. Side and curtain airbags complete the protection for the cabin.

Perks

Inside, the Tacoma features a six-speaker audio system controlled through a color touchscreen. It offers AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback, auxiliary and USB 2.0 inputs for multiple devices, and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming as well as hands-free calls and texting. Climate control and power windows are just a few of the other amenities found inside.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last fifty years or so, you know how volatile gas prices can be. One week they’re up; the next week they’re down. Then there’s the impact on the environment. These days, more and more people are looking for less consumption without getting less car. Your La Grange Area Toyota dealer has you covered with the 2015 Yaris LE.

Efficiency

The Yaris can deliver an EPA-estimated 36 miles per gallon on the highway and 30 in the city. How? By taking a reasonable 1.5-liter, in-line four cylinder engine and giving it dual overhead cams, variable valve timing, and multi-point fuel injection. The Yaris is capable of 106 horsepower and 103 pounds of torque with a four-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

Safety

Toyota’s number one priority is safety. That’s why they equip the Yaris with anti-lock, ventilated disc brakes that are managed by a brake force distribution system. Electronic traction and stability control help keep you on the road. In case of an accident, intelligent front airbags use sensors in the seats to adapt to crash conditions and reduce the risk of injury. Side and curtain airbags are also equipped to protect the entire cabin.

Feeling

The independent front and semi-independent rear suspensions use a combination of struts, coil springs, torsion beams, and stabilizer bars to give a sporty feel. Meanwhile, inside, a six speaker audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback, digital radio, touchscreen interface, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and texting sets the mood.

Often times we have a ballpark idea of how many miles we are getting to the gallon and Chicago Area Toyota encourages drivers to find out more. Taking some time to actually calculate what your car is getting can prove to be very beneficial. Often times once you begin clocking how many miles to the gallon you are getting you may be more mindful of your driving. You may even see an increase!

How To Calculate Miles Per Gallon

Here is the first step. Bring your car to the gas station and fill it up to full. Don't squeeze as much gas as you can in to the tank, just fill the tank until the nozzle clicks off. Write down your current mileage, and keep that number saved.

Keep A Written Record

The next time you go to the gas station, write down how much you put in the gas tank and how many miles you traveled since your last fill up. So, say you put in 5 gallons and when 100 miles. Divide the number of miles by the number of gallons you put in your take. So, in this instance we would divide 100 by 5. According to this example, we would be getting about 20 miles to the gallon.

Calculating MPG Keeps You Accountable

Follow these steps and keep a log of how many miles to the gallon you are getting. You may find that you stomp on the gas pedal less often, or travel at slower speeds on the highway. This number may fluctuate after you get an oil change. You will begin to learn more about your car. By keeping track of your miles per gallon you will have an exact number for how your car performs.

When it comes to refueling your vehicle La Grange Area Toyota cautions that there are some hazards. You can easily search online and find videos of everyday people pumping gas while not following basic safety instructions and the results can be tragic. Here is a simple check list to keep you and your family safe:

Put Safety First

1. Be sure to turn your vehicle off. This seems so unnecessary, especially in the colder months! Unfortunately, we all have to do it. It keeps us safe!

2. Do not smoke or use electronics while fueling up. It's important to make sure that we aren't using anything that could potentially light fire or spark near the gasoline pump.

Tend To Your Vehicle

3. Do not leave your vehicle unattended while the gas is pumping. If something did happen it's helpful if you are right there to react.

4. Remember to close all of your doors and windows. This ensures that the fumes do not get in to the interior of your car while you are pumping gas.

Be Mindful Of Gas Spills

5. When the gas tank is full the nozzle will shut off automatically. Do not continue to try and “top off” the tank or round the cost up by pumping just a little bit more. This can cause the tank to overflow.

6. If any gas does happen to spill, be sure to let the attendant know. It's easy to just drive away, but the attendant has a responsibility to clean up the spill properly. Without letting them know they may not see it or clean it up.

By following these simple rules you will be able to ensure the safety of you and everyone around you.

Black ice can be unpredictable and Chicago Area Toyota is reminding drivers that it is hard to spot and very dangerous. Here is some helpful advice to keep you and your family safe.

What is black ice exactly? Black ice is an extremely thin layer of frozen water on the surface of the road. Often times when the temperature outside drops quickly it can cause moisture in the air to freeze on the road. It can also appear on bridges or overpasses, since the temperature of the black top is lower there.

Be Proactive

There are several ways to stay safe if there is black ice on the roadway. First, lower you speed. This allows you to maintain better control of your vehicle. Keep a safe distance between you and other drivers so that you will have extra time to react. If another car on the road loses control you will be able to stop easily and avoid a collision.

Slow Down Safely

If you find yourself sliding on black ice, the number one rule is to avoid slamming on your breaks. Your tires may stop spinning, but the momentum of your car on the ice will keep your car in motion. This could cause your vehicle to spin. The best way to slow down is to take your foot off of the gas petal. This will slowly and safely decrease the speed of your vehicle, keeping you and your passengers safe.

The 2014 Scion tC is offered at La Grange Area Scion and it packs an amazing sport feel in to a car that is affordable, great on gas, spacious and safe. What more could you want? The Scion tC is a two door vehicle with a sports car edge. It can be purchased with base model features, or the sky is the limit.

Sporty Features

The Scion tC is the perfect marriage of practical use and a sporty feel. The interior of the car features sport bucket seats in the front, the add-on option of a sun roof, leather detailing and a large audio display. You would never guess that this car would come with such an affordable price tag. Base models start at $19,980 with a manual transmission.

The Sky Is The Limit

This model is highly customizable. Add on features come in a wide array of different options. Drivers can choose from different spoilers, interior lighting choices and audio features. In addition, Scion offers chrome exhaust tips, a variety of shifter knobs, and the ability to lower the car and upgrade the exhaust system. Each of these options can increase how sporty you would like to car to be.

Even though the 2014 Scion tC packs a punch, it fairs pretty well when it comes to miles per gallon. Drivers reportedly receive between 23 and 31 miles to the gallon. The vehicle holds 14 gallons of gas. When it comes to maintenance, your first two years of maintenance are free thanks to Scion's 2 Year/25,000 mile no maintenance program.

The 2015 Scion xB is unmistakable with its boxy frame and distinct contour and it's available at the Chicago Area Scion. When compared to others in its class, the Scion xB is a serious contender. Many features on this vehicle make it a top choice for those who are looking for something spacious, affordable and practical. The xB comes in either a manual transmission or an automatic transmission.

Base Models Come With Great Features

The 2015 Scion xB comes in base models that start around $17,890. There are some surprising features that are included in the base model. One of those features is a backup camera. This car is fully equipped with Bluetooth technology and remote keyless entry.

Exceptional Miles Per Gallon

When it comes to miles per gallon the Scion xB competes well with Honda's CR-V. The xB receives between 22 and 28 miles per gallon. It holds up to 14 gallons of gas. This means that drivers could potentially drive up to 390 miles before each refuel.

Above Average Storage Space

The back seats in the Scion xB fold down, which creates almost 70 cubic feet of storage. This is a giant space. Often times, parents and college students appreciate the amount of space that the xB has to offer. The back seats have what is called a 60.40 split, meaning that they go down in two sections. One of the sections is slightly larger and one is smaller. This way there can be passengers in the back seat while transporting large cargo.

The 2015 Scion xB also includes their 2 year no-cost maintenance plan. This plan is good for up to 25,000 miles and expires after two years. Be sure to stop by and check out our selection.

Scion has a great reputation, and La Grange Area Scion say that when it comes to affordable driving you can't beat the 2014 Scion iQ. Even though this car is compact, it packs a great star safety package and has 11 air bags. For commuters, the Scion iQ is ideal in many ways.

Compact, Affordable, Great Gas Mileage

The 2014 Scion iQ is compact, but even with its small size it seats four. It is only available in the two door option, and the hatchback allows you to fold down the back seats for extra storage. When it comes to commuting, drivers can expect to get 37 miles to the gallon. The gas tank hold just over 8 gallons, meaning drivers can go around 330 miles before needing to visit the gas pump.

Great Technology Features

Scion has integrated technology in to this compact car by adding Bluetooth connectivity. This way commuters can travel while talking hands free on their cell phones. There is also a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack. It car comes with a six speaker audio system, however there is the option to upgrade to a Pioneer Standard Display audio system.

The 2014 Scion iQ is the perfect little vehicle for those who are looking for a great, affordable commuter car. In addition to looking sleek, this vehicle is fuel efficient. When it comes to safety, the Scion iQ offers advanced safety features. In addition to being great on fuel, drivers can travel safely with the use of Bluetooth technology.

We are officially in the thick of it.  Winter came roaring in long before the calendar changed, but you don’t have to be miserable all season long.  Find a little peace and comfort to sweeten the sour taste winter can sometimes leave in your mouth. The first place to start is your commute.  Many new SUVs at La Grange area Toyota sales have leather interior.

2015 Toyota 4Runner Limited

The MSRP for the 2015 Toyota 4Runner Limited varies between $44K and $45K.  The 5-passenger SUV is powered by a 270-hp V8 that can tow 4700 lbs. and average an estimated 17/21 mpg.  Interior features included in the 2015 Toyota 4Runner include a collapsible second row, leather interior, tow hitch, power mirrors, heated seats, telematics, backup camera, universal garage door opener, and a navigation system.

2015 Toyota Highlander XLE and Limited

Both the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE and Highlander Limited trim levels are outfitted with leather seats.  The MSRP for the 2015 Toyota Highlander is below $39,000.  If you upgrade to the 2015 Toyota Highlander Limited, the MSRP starts at $45,000. KBB awarded the SUV with a 2015 Best Buy Award. According to US News and World Report, the Highlander is the #1 Affordable Midsize SUV. Under the hood of the popular Highlander is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 270 hp and averages 18/24 mpg (all-wheel drive). Installed features consist of leather seating, all-season tires, navigation, HD radio, Bluetooth, satellite radio, 3^rd-row seating, universal garage door opener, and a power liftgate.

If you have not heard of the clay bar, you are missing a marvel.  The clay bar is a necessity in body shops and detail establishments everywhere, and you too can own one. It is a good idea to keep a clay bar in your garage. La Grange area Toyota Scion service encourages owners to explore the many benefits of the clay bar.

What is a Clay Bar?

A clay bar is used to remove any contaminants or overspray on a vehicle’s exterior.  Sometimes washing simply will not do, so the clay bar comes to the rescue. A clay bar resembles kids’ play dough or silly putty. The type of clay bar type you need depends on the amount of cash you are willing to spend and the type of job you are tackling.

What Can I use a Clay Bar for?

Just a heads up: a clay bar is not effective at removing swirls or chips in a car’s paint.  If the blemish or damage has penetrated the paint finish, a clay bar will not be useful.  You will need to see a detailer or body shop.  Clay bars are used to remove surface blemishes and contaminants from the car’s paint or glass.  You can use a clay bar on the following:

• Tar and road debris
• Overspray
• Insect remnants and bird poo
• Brake dust and rail dust
• Acid rain and hard water stains
• Tree sap
• Anything stuck on or slimed across the vehicle glass, except for scratches, swirls and rock chips.

How to Use the Clay Bar

Refer to the packaging instructions before you tackle the blemish.  Be careful not to dull or mar the car’s paint.  The basic steps for using a commercial clay bar are:

1. Wash and dry the vehicle.
2. Mold the clay by squeezing it in your hand.  You will need to flatten it into a disc shape. Plunge the clay bar into a bucket of warm soapy water or apply a clay bar lubricant.
3. Gently rub the clay bar over the area until the contaminant is gone. Make sure the clay bar stays moist.  When you are finished, wipe a clean towel over the area.
4. Completely dry the area and inspect before continuing.
5. Use a wax or sealant on the area to restore shine and protect the paint.
6. Return the clay bar back to its original packaging or discard it if you cannot find a clean surface.