Steer Clear of Distracted Driving | Northridge Toyota Scion

The dangers of distracted driving affect thousands of lives each year. Are you taking the proper steps to ensure a safe driving experience for you, your passengers and others on the road?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the numbers are all too real, with 3,154 people killed in 2013 in vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers. While many states have adopted laws to crack down on phone usage behind the wheel, real change starts at home, with drivers pledging to adopt simple safety measures and ensuring family members also make the commitment.

As advocates for safe driving everywhere, the car experts at Edmunds.com offer these tips for safe travels behind the wheel:

Limit the distractions: While it's always a good idea to have a phone with you in case of a breakdown or other auto emergency, keep distractions out of sight while driving. Switch your phone to silent, put it in airplane mode or turn it off completely before you enter your vehicle. Placing your phone in the glovebox, the backseat or the trunk (or even just in a bag) can also stop the temptation of answering your calls or texts, so you can focus on the road instead.

Just drive: Many other activities can also be distracting in the car, such as eating, drinking, managing your entertainment or even putting on makeup. Make sure your car is used only for getting you from Point A to Point B. Save the other activities for your destination.

Make it a family priority: Discuss the responsibilities that come with driving a vehicle and the hazards that accompany distracted driving. Set rules for your whole family so teen drivers know that you, too, are engaged in creating a safe zone in your own vehicle. Be a good role model even before your children are old enough to drive so they witness only good habits.

Set a reminder for safety: Place a sticky note on your phone or a photo of a loved one in a non-obstructive location in your car to remind you of your commitment to safe driving.

Don't be a passive passenger: Spreading the message about safe driving doesn't stop when you're in the passenger seat. If you're in a car with driver who is using a phone, ask that it be put away — for everyone's safety.

Become an advocate for safe driving. Tell your family, friends, neighbors and everyone you know about the dangers of distracted driving.

And remember that safer roads start with smart, focused driving.

Source: http://www.edmunds.com/car-safety/steer-clear-of-distracted-driving.html

About Northridge Toyota | Scion in Northridge

Ted Hitchcock, General Manager, would like to thank you for visiting Northridge Toyota | Scion - serving the San Fernando Valley for over 40 year. Located in the heart of Northridge, CA, and near Los Angeles and surrounding communities, we are conveniently located for prime shopping and eating. Northridge Toyota | Scion now serves the community with a new 75,000 sq foot facility that includes a service center that has almost 50% greater capacity.

The Northridge Toyota | Scion mission is to bring knowledgeable car specialists, enthusiasm, value, great inventory, unparalleled customer service, friendly staff, community awareness and simplicity to every customer interaction while making the positive feedback and experience of each guest our primary objective. We offer an amazing array of new Toyota cars, certified pre-owned Toyota’s, and have a huge inventory of pre-owned cars. We specialize in all forms of maintenance, from tires to brakes, including all Toyota Care, Toyota Care Plus, and Toyota ExpressMaintenance. Whether an oil change and tire rotation, or something more, we have a cutting edge facility to help you. Please visit our well stocked parts and accessories department as well as our waiting area with state-of-the-art hot beverage dispensers, numerous flat panel tv’s, free wi-fi and pet waiting area - See more at: http://www.northridgetoyota.com

Hello October! | Northridge Toyota

Do you know why October is so much fun? Is it because we have our annual Toyota Clearance Event happening, making room for 2016 models? Is it because today is Columbus Day? Is it because this is a wonderful time to celebrate our native indigenous culture and their contribution and importance in US history, as well as those of Italian immigrants? Is it because Halloween is just around the corner? Is it because we are getting close to Thanksgiving and all the fun winter Holiday’s? Well, the answer is, ALL OF THE ABOVE!

Today we celebrate Columbus Day. This is a day that congress set aside in 1934 to celebrate the discovery of the “New World” – when Columbus arrived in “The Americas”. It also marks the day for many Native Americans as the beginning of a challenging time in their history – which we all honor and respect.

Northridge Toyota wants to celebrate Columbus Day with you, recognize the contribution of all Americans, Italian Americans, Native Americans, and collectively all of us that work every day to make the world a better place. A place where we encourage one of the most exciting things we can do as the human race, “Discovery”.

Discovery is awesome, whether science or the arts; discovering new things is part of the spice of life and what makes every day potentially amazing.

So happy “Columbus Day”, happy “Discovery Day”, and hope your week is off to a great start.

We love this website, so please check this out: http://www.ymcala.org/north-valley.

Lastly, please be on the lookout for our Halloween get together and other community events happening at Northridge Toyota – “Your Neighborhood Toyota Dealership”.

Ted Hitchcock, General Manager, would like to thank you for visiting Northridge Toyota serving the greater Northridge, CA, serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA area. Our goal is to make your car buying experience memorable with great deals and offers available. Northridge Toyota’s virtual dealership offers a wide variety of new and used cars, Scion, Toyota incentives, service specials, and Scion, Toyota parts savings. Conveniently located in Northridge, CA we are just a short drive from serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA. - See more at: http://www.northridgetoyota.com

Northridge is the Place to Be | Northridge Toyota Scion

Northridge Toyota and Northridge Scion are so lucky to be in such a wonderful neighborhood.  Just across the street we have the Northridge Fashion Center with their own Macy’s, Sears and JCPenny’s, and so many terrific restaurants.  The architecture is bold and clean, the area full of parking and loaded with stores, and it is amazing how close the mall is to other fantastic restaurants in the area.

We find that so many of our employees end up at the Yard House, or the Macaroni Grill, or Claim Jumper, and the list goes on.  Just down the street we have a Costco that features delicious hot dogs and pizza slices ready to eat (so inexpensive), and we even have an In & Out Hamburger.

One of the special events that the Northridge Fashion Center puts on this season is their Farmers Market.  This is so cool, because vendors come from all over to sell fresh produce, organic honey, nuts and seeds, kettle popcorn, knick knacks, and so much more.  Check this out soon, it’s going to be gone by the end of October, and we’ll have to wait until next March for it to start up again.

We are also excited because the new 2016 Toyota Prius is coming out -  very sleek styling and way too cool features.

Also, please come by often through the end of the year; we are going to have a Toys For Tots, a special Halloween event, and so much more!

We also participate with the North Valley YMCA and the local police department;  there is always information on our Facebook Page, so please be on the lookout for more fun and exciting information to all our other upcoming events at Northridge Toyota.

Ted Hitchcock, General Manager, would like to thank you for visiting Northridge Toyota serving the greater Northridge, CA, serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA area. Our goal is to make your car buying experience memorable with great deals and offers available. Northridge Toyota’s virtual dealership offers a wide variety of new and used cars, Scion, Toyota incentives, service specials, and Scion, Toyota parts savings. Conveniently located in Northridge, CA we are just a short drive from serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA. - See more at: http://www.northridgetoyota.com

Regular Car Checks Recommended During High Summer Temperatures

Staying on top of your car's systems during the height of Summer can help ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car's battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle's radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges.

The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris.

Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it's important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner's manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle's tires.

"It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps," said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council reminds motorists that the vehicle's exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care Guide or for more information, visithttp://www.carcare.org/.

Source: Car Care Council

Follow Some Simple Tips when your 4-Legged Friend joins you

ASPCA offers tips and tricks for your pet's Safety

For some pet parents, a trip’s no fun if the four-legged members of the family can’t come. But traveling can be highly stressful, both for you and your animal companions. With thoughtful preparation, you can ensure a safe and comfortable trip for everyone.

Planning a road trip? Traveling with a pet involves more than just loading the animal in the back seat and motoring off-especially if you will be driving long distances or plan to be away for a long time. The ASPCA offers the following tips to help you prepare for a safe and smooth car trip:

• Keep your pets safe and secure in a well-ventilated crate or carrier. There are a variety of wire mesh, hard plastic and soft-sided carriers available. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, sit, lie down and turn around in. And P.S., it’s smart to get your pet used to the carrier in the comfort of your home before your trip.
• Get your pet geared up for a long trip by taking him on a series of short drives first, gradually lengthening time spent in the car. And please be sure to always secure the crate so it won’t slide or shift in the event of a quick stop.
• Your pet’s travel-feeding schedule should start with a light meal three to four hours prior to departure. Don’t feed your furry friend in a moving vehicle-even if it is a long drive.
• Never leave your animal alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day, even with the windows open, a parked automobile can become a furnace in no time, and heatstroke can develop. In cold weather, a car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
• What in your pet’s traveling kit? In addition to travel papers, food, bowl, leash, a waste scoop, plastic bags, grooming supplies, medication and a pet first-aid kit, pack a favorite toy or pillow to give your pet a sense of familiarity.
• Make sure your pet has a microchip for identification and wears a collar with a tag imprinted with your home address, as well as a temporary travel tag with your cell phone, destination phone number and any other relevant contact information. Canines should wear flat (never choke!) collars, please.
• Don't allow your pet to ride with his head outside the window. He could be injured by flying objects. And please keep him in the back seat in his crate or with a harness attached to a seat buckle.
• Traveling across state lines? Bring along your pet’s rabies vaccination record, as some states requires this proof at certain interstate crossings. While this generally isn’t a problem, it’s always smart to be on the safe side.
• When it comes to H2O, we say BYO. Opt for bottled water or tap water stored in plastic jugs. Drinking water from an area he’s not used to could result in tummy upset for your pet.
• If you travel frequently with your pet, you may want to invest in rubberized floor liners and waterproof seat covers, available at auto product retailers.

Resource: http://pets.webmd.com/dogs/guide/10_tips_for_safe_car_travel_with_your_pet

It's Road Trip Season

Don't Let Your Adventure Break the Bank

In a few weeks, millions of Americans will start hitting the road for their annual summer road trips. Overall, almost 80% of American vacations involve driving rather than flying, according to the U.S. Travel Association. A survey by AAA found that 52% of people said they were more likely to take a long road trip in 2015 because of lower gas prices.

But driving to your next vacation destination comes with costs of its own, including gas, lodging, and wear and tear on your car. While the upfront cost is smaller when getting behind the wheel, minor expenses can add up.

Whether you’re planning a coast-to-coast journey or a quick weekend getaway, you’re probably looking for ways to save on your next road trip. We’ve gathered seven tips that will help you save money on travel this summer so that you can get the most bang for your vacation buck.

1. Get a tune-up

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition. Popular Mechanics advises checking filters, fluid levels, brake linings, coolant, and tire pressure. Properly inflating your tires can improve fuel economy by 3%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, while using the manufacturer-recommended grade of motor oil can improve gas mileage by up to 2%.

2. Pack light

Loading up your car with a lot of baggage means you’ll spend more on gas. Your fuel efficiency falls by 1% for every extra 100 pounds you carry in your car. Putting a cargo box on your car’s roof reduces fuel economy by 6% to 17% when driving on the highway. If you must carry extra cargo, haul it behind your car rather than putting it on the roof.

3. Watch the speedometer

Having a lead foot will cost you. Fuel economy decreases dramatically at speeds above 50 miles per hour, says the U.S. Department of Energy; you’ll pay an extra 17 cents per gallon for every five miles you drive above that speed. Rapid acceleration and braking also reduces your car’s fuel efficiency.

4. Skip the tolls

Tolls are collected on 4,630 miles of highway in 25 states, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. And they won’t just cost you pocket change. Driving 356 miles on the Pennsylvania Turnpike, from the Ohio border to the Delaware River Bridge, will set you back $46.10 if you have a regular passenger car, and more if you’re driving a bigger vehicle like an RV. Picking an alternate route could mean more money in your pocket.

Going far out of your way to skip tolls could end up costing you more in gas and lost time. But for cost-conscious travelers who aren’t in a hurry, it may make sense to choose the scenic route, opting for small back roads rather than major highways.

5. Get a deal on lodging

Everyone has a different strategy when it comes to finding a place to stay on a road trip. Some people create strict itineraries, so they know exactly where they’re going to stay every night. Other people have a more laissez-faire strategy, letting the rhythm of the road dictate where they bed down for the night.

If you prefer the former approach, you have time to shop around and get the best deal on a room. Seat-of-their-pants travelers can use sites like Priceline and Hotwire to get last-minute deals. A membership with AAA can score you big discounts at many hotels, and hotel loyalty programs may earn you discounts and upgrades on rooms. Camping rather than staying in hotels is another way to save.

6. Stock up on snacks

The average American individual or family spends $27.16 per day on food at restaurants when traveling, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Make multiple trips through the drive-through a day, and you could quickly blow your travel budget.

Before you leave, stock up on affordable, healthy snacks so that you’re not tempted to hit McDonald’s. Then, look for parks and nature preserves on your route where you can stop for a picnic, and turn your lunch break into a fun part of the trip. And if you’re staying in hotels, don’t forget to fill up at the free breakfast, if one is offered.

7. Track gas prices

Gas prices have fallen over the past year, which is good news for summer travelers. But a little advance planning can save you even more. Apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas station when it’s time to fill up.

Also, remember that gas prices can vary significantly from state to state. If you’re driving through Chicago, fill up in neighboring states like Wisconsin and Indiana, where gas can be 10 or 20 cents cheaper per gallon because of lower local taxes, according to a report by Illinois Policy. On your way to California, top off the tank in Arizona, where the average price of gas is currently 76 cents less than in the Golden State.

Resource: http://www.cheatsheet.com/personal-finance/save-money-on-your-summer-road-trip-with-these-7-tips.html/?a=viewall#ixzz3dFOO3oot

2015 Sienna 'Swagger Wagon' Struts Its Stuff | New & Used Cars LA San Fernando Valley

 

 2015 Sienna Wins Family Car of Texas

The 2015 Toyota Sienna “Swagger Wagon” showed its moves with its refreshed styling and added safety, convenience and multimedia features, earning it both Family Car of Texas and Minivan of Texas at the Texas Automotive Writers Association’s (TAWA) annual Auto Roundup event.

After a day of demanding driving at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas, journalists voted for their favorite vehicles in 18 different categories. This year 52 journalists attended the event and drove 54 vehicles from various manufacturers.

“As the only van in its segment available with all-wheel drive, the recognition as Family Car of Texas confirms our efforts to keep the family van alive and thriving,” said KC Kirimoto, vice president of product and global communications for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Toyota’s commitment to enhancing the 2015 Sienna was focused not only on new safety features, but also the convenience and comfort of every member of the family.”

2015 Sienna is Perfect Fit for Families
The 2015 Sienna impressed Texas journalists with its style and comfort, from the subtle exterior styling refinements for a more upscale look to the new center console and dash design. Both passengers and drivers can enjoy the refreshed interior with added safety, convenience and multimedia features. Sienna’s new three-spoke heated steering wheel, available trimmed in leather or premium leather, ups the luxury ante.

Ted Hitchcock, General Manager, would like to thank you for visiting Northridge Toyota serving the greater Northridge, CA, serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA area. Our goal is to make your car buying experience memorable with great deals and offers available. Northridge Toyota’s virtual dealership offers a wide variety of new and used cars, Scion, Toyota incentives, service specials, and Scion, Toyota parts savings. Conveniently located in Northridge, CA we are just a short drive from serving Los Angeles, CA and serving San Fernando Valley, CA. - See more at: http://www.northridgetoyota.com/#sthash.gn9on8pa.dpuf

5 Spring Maintenance Tips for Your Car | New & Used Cars LA San Fernando Valley

 

Here are Five Spring Car Maintenance Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Remove leftover salt
Salt, used on roads to melt ice and snow, can cause serious damage to cars, especially their undercarriages where metal can rust. Take your car to a highly rated car wash to eliminate salt, and check that the business has sprayers that clean the undercarriage.

2. Check alignment and suspension
Driving over potholes can damage your car’s alignment and suspension. You might have a problem if you notice that the car pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates as you drive. An alignment check typically costs $25 to $40.

3. Change oil and check fluids
“If your last oil change was before winter, then this is a great time to do it, spring is also an ideal time to flush your transmission fluid. It’s one of the most neglected services. Mechanics say spring is a good time to check your car's fluid levels. Waiting too long to change your fluids can lead to a costly repair. Mechanics recommend changing your car’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.Don’t forget to check window washing fluid levels, as well as your brake and cooling system fluids.

4. Rotate tires and check air pressure
You should check the tire pressure, including the spare should you ever need it. Your car’s tires affect the ride, handling, traction and safety.Mechanics recommend tire rotation every 5,000 miles to keep tread wear even.One of the biggest issues we see is the front tires wearing out prematurely.

5. Inspect brakes
Nothing, perhaps, is more important than having brakes that function properly. Have a technician check the pads and rotors to ensure there are no safety issues. Neglecting them can lead to a costlier repair down the line.

2016 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab revealed along with more details | Northridge Toyota

The Toyota Tacoma stepped behind the curtain for a makeover, and has emerged for 2016 with an appearance both chunky and menacing, plus lots of new tech and features. We've already seen its exterior, but some details we didn't get are that there will be a new locking tailgate that can lower itself slowly, without slamming, an available tri-fold hard tonneau, and four new wheel designs. Supporting that will be a stiffer frame with more high-strength steel and additional hot-stamped, ultra-high-strength steel in a lighter bodyshell.

Engines will come in two flavors, either the carryover 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a brand new 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V6 that utilizes both direct and port fuel injection. The four-pot only can only be had with a six-speed automatic transmission - one extra gear than before - with electronic shifting, the sixer can be specified with that or a six-speed manual. We haven't been given numbers yet, but Toyota says the new truck is "more powerful and fuel efficient," meaning we expect a raise on the 236 horsepower of the current 4.0-liter V6.

The dash is laid out with a driver-focused "handlebar" theme, finished with soft materials and metallic accents. Tech options include push-button start, Qi wireless charging, a Multi-Terrain Select system, and blind-spot detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, while luxury is attended to with a power moonroof and leather-trimmed seats. To aid the ambiance, engineers improved the seals, added an acoustic windshield, a sound-absorbing headliner and a floor silencer pad to make the cabin quieter. The suspension has also been retuned to deliver a smoother ride and provide more travel. One neat convenience touch: a GoPro mount next to the rear-view mirror.

Five trims will be offered when it goes on sale: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited.

2016 Toyota Avalon – hybrid, review, changes, refresh | Northridge Toyota

Dear lovers of cars from a full-size sedan category, we inform you that the market will soon find a new 2016 Toyota Avalon. Its turning on many cars will push into the shade, and most of its biggest competitors, Honda Accord and Ford Fusion. This excellent car is known for its large and comfortable cabin, and with this new model will gain improvements in terms of the latest systems and technologies, as well as more beautiful designs. All this should not affect the expansion of the list of buyers of this model, because it will remove all the shortcomings of earlier. With the new model will apparently come and hybrid versions, and this will be a big hit for this model if it is true. The new Avalon will have four different trim levels. These are: XLE, Touring, Premuim XLE and Limited trim the level.

Under the hood of the new 2016 Avalon will be known 3.5L V6 engine with 268 hp and 248 lb feet of torque, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine was previously very popular and there was no need to change it. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is estimated at six seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway. The story goes that the Toyota Avalon Hybrid to offer better mileage of around 40/30 mpg. Moreover, Toyota is going to offer a hybrid electric version of the 2016 Toyota Avalon which will be propelled by the Hybrid Synergy Drive train like that found in the Camry Hybrid. EV mode, Eco mode and the HVAC energy use.

In view of the exterior of the new 2016 Toyota Avalon can say that there will be quite redesign and therefore he will have a bit more modern line than before. The full-length will be lower by about 2.5 inches. The offer will be completely new grilles, like the one that is on the model Camry. Changes will be evident in the area of ​​the rear window, which will be smaller than before. We’ll mention a contemporary mirrors and we will not dwell on this topic and other minor details changed.

Inside the cabin, the new 2016 Avalon will be even more space than its predecessor. The capacity of the cabin for five adults, who will have complete comfort in the true sense of the word will be able to sleep in such a space. The new dashboard will dominate the cabin and within it will be offered 6.1-inch touch screen through which will control all systems and accessories in a very easy way. All this will be the driver, and passengers ride make a real pleasure. It will also be offered leather seats that will have the possibility of heating.