How can I minimize the costs of driving?

This is a timely question as continued rising fuel prices have people wondering how to reduce the costs of operating a vehicle. With increased spending necessary just to fill the tank, drivers wonder if they should put off spending money on car repairs and maintenance.

The answer to that is “No.” Taking care of your vehicle actually saves you money both on fuel costs as well as long-term expenses. Of course, there are additional things you can do to conserve fuel such as taking it easy on accelerating from a stop and driving at 55MPH on the highway. But, keeping a close eye on maintenance for your vehicle will actually save on fuel costs as well. And it is an investment that can pay off by extending the life of your vehicle.

Whoever thought filling the gas tank would cost $100? With gas prices continuing to rise, we all look for ways to save. While we can’t affect the price at the pump, taking care of your vehicle and ensuring it is operating at optimal efficiency will save you money over time. For more information on how to reduce total costs of operating your car, SUV or truck, both in the short-term and long-term, see our tips on How to Get Better Gas Mileage.

We are here to help you make informed decisions about servicing your vehicle. Visit us in Haverhill or call us at 866-937-8658.

ASK GARY: What should I consider while driving this Earth Day?

Today is Earth Day, and it judging by the weather, it seems like Mother Earth is celebrating with us! As automobile owners, our choices and driving habits can have a significant effect on the environment, as they will also largely determine the choices and habits of our children. Today is a great day to take the initiative on cleaning up outside litter, buying organic local food , and turning off unused lights, but is also a chance to reflect on the way we do and perceive things.

A great thing that consumers are changing their minds over is the viability of hybrid vehicles. A recent study found that hybrid sales in 2012 were 40% more than in the previous year. I’m also very proud to say that Toyota has sold its 5 millionth hybrid, and has captured over 1/3rd of the hybrid vehicle market. Of course, there are many great non-Toyota hybrids on the market, and recent technological strides have made plug-in electric vehicles a viable option as well. For anyone thinking about purchasing a new vehicle, I’d recommend keeping an open mind about a hybrid or electric vehicle. The Prius C has been receiving many distinctions, from the IIHS Top Safety Pick Award, to awards for its good mileage/low fuel costs and high resale value. Our inventory can be found here, and remember that there are quite a few unexpected perks to owning a hybrid –for Earth Day, hybrids were allowed to park free in New York City, and given free washes in St. Louis!

Another habit many of us should reconsider is idling. Sometimes we’ll just be getting out of the car to make a quick trip, but the amount of fuel used by 10 seconds of idling is the same amount needed to restart the engine –meaning if you park for more than 30 seconds, you should turn off your engine. Beliefs that engines need time to warm up really only apply to very old cars and diesel engines, as most modern engines do not requires this. Idling engines also combust fuel below the peak temperature, leading to excessive residue build up. While turning off your engine doesn’t make much sense to do while sitting in traffic, the next time you are off running some errands, or run back home because you forgot something, consider turning off the engine.

And of course, making sure your tires are properly inflated can yield a drastic improvement on your fuel efficiency, and keep you safer in case of any emergency. It’s a quick and painless process, and can be done at almost any gas station. I’ve made a video on how to properly check tire pressure, and hope you take a moment to watch it.

If you’re really committed to a successful Earth Day, ride your bike instead of driving today! Maybe even take a walk! And if you have to drive, do it with the A/C off, and the windows down! It’s a myth that open windows decreases fuel efficiency by increasing air resistance, and it’s certainly a nice change of pace to experience weather that makes us happy.

As always, drive safe, and drive green!

ASK GARY: Toyota Deserves Credit for Innovation

Toyota has consistently been offering quality innovations to the industry in a way that often gets overlooked by consumers. If you stop to think about it, it’s simple to see how much Toyota has impacted the automobile industry: the company not only pioneered lean manufacturing for automobile manufacturers (now used by all manufacturers), but have established several trends in consumer vehicles, the Toyota Prius being the most recent trendsetter.

It is no surprise that this article in the Eagle Tribune contends that Toyota is a car manufacturer deserving of our respect. There are certainly no disagreements from me! The author uses a story of the Toyota RAV4 to illuminate Toyota’s innovative spirit, and how it has affected the entire class of SUVs for drivers. Even more interesting, he goes on to compare Toyota’s recent years to the classic years of General Motors, stating that this is the reasons American consumers love Toyotas so much.

I would highly recommend giving this article a quick read through. I’ve gotten my word in, but what about yours? I would love to hear the opinions and stories of my readers.

Safe driving!

ASK GARY: Is there a shortage of new Toyotas?

Following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, everyone’s first concern was for the safety and welfare of the Japanese people. They continue to remain in our thoughts as Japan works hard to take care of its citizens after this horrific natural disaster.

A secondary concern that has been widely publicized is the impact to businesses whose plants and employees were directly affected by the disaster.  This includes Toyota—the best selling automaker in the world.

Contrary to speculation, the good news is that if you are in the market for a Toyota in New England, now is a good time to buy—and at a good price.  Beginning June 1, Toyota is offering strong incentives, including reduced lease rates and financing.

Also, with the popularity of Toyota models, New England dealers have a very healthy inventory on hand of all models—including the best-selling Camry, the eco-friendly Prius and the fuel-efficient Yaris.  Many vehicles were already in the pipeline when the disaster struck, and have been arriving to keep new Toyota vehicle inventory at good levels.  Right now your chances are very good of finding exactly what you are looking for in terms of model and color.

The reality is, though, that the disruption to production will probably catch up with us in New England in late June or early July.  This will mean that as we head into summer, you may see some diminished inventory, and for example, might need to be more flexible about the color or Toyota model.  Also, according to the law of supply and demand, you’re likely to purchase your vehicle at a lower price now while inventory is still good, rather than when supplies are leaner. 

What does this mean for you? Don’t delay if you’re planning to purchase a Toyota.  By taking advantage of the Toyota inventory that’s available now, you can still get the vehicle you want, and at a reduced price with Toyota incentives.