5 Signs You Need Your Brakes Checked

Here are 5 ways to know that it is time to get your brakes checked or replaced!

1) Worn Pads: You'll have to estimate, but generally, your pads should be at least one-quarter of an inch thick. If they're any thinner than that, it's a good idea to get them changed.

2) Strange Sounds: One of the warning signs that your brakes need servicing can come from a small indicator in your braking system that emits a high-pitched squeal when your pads need replacing. And, while this sound is loud enough to be heard even when the windows are up, it might be tough to hear with Lady Gaga blaring from the stereo.

3) Pulling: Has your car ever felt like it has a mind of its own? As if it wants to make right- or left-hand turns while driving or braking? If so, this could indicate a problem with the braking system. Pulling, however, doesn't always indicate a problem with the brakes. The cause could also come from unevenly inflated or worn tires, poor alignment or a problem with your vehicle's suspension.

4) Vibrations: Generally, a vibrating brake pedal indicates warped rotors. Their uneven surfaces will thrum against the brake pads, and you'll feel the feedback through the brake pedal.

5) Temperamental Pedal: A mushy pedal, one that goes practically to the floor before engaging the brakes, could indicate worn pads or a problem with the hydraulic system, such as air in the line, an air leak or a brake fluid leak.

Courtesy of HowStuffWorks.com: http://bit.ly/1fEBTxd

7 Common Reasons for an Oil Change!

Listed are seven reasons to get an oil change regularly!
 
1. Longevity - If you want to make sure your vehicle lasts for the long-run, an oil change is something you want to get done regularly!
 
2. Sludge - Your car parts can be ruined due to dirty cogs and then the engine can build up acidity which can cause further damage.
 
3. Stress - If you are going up steep terrain or going on a long trip your engine needs as much possible power as you can get.
 
4. Change - Get your oil changed about every 3,000 miles, especially in a moderate or dusty climate.
 
5. Driving habits - If you are an aggressive driver, typically you should look to change your oil more often because of driving style. If you are in traffic often, check your oil level.
 
6. Add more - While driving you constantly burn oil, so make sure that you change it out because sludge and other debris can cause expensive damages. 
 
7. Friction - Oil reduces friction, so if you hear your engine making noises when you start your vehicle, it is typically due to dirty or low oil in the tank.

Courtesy of: Star Tech European http://bit.ly/1lFKrFA 

Toyota Thanks Its 4 Millionth Certified Pre-Owned Customer

Michigan man presented with check; Toyota donates matching amount to local Ann Arbor non-profit

January 15, 2014

TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 15, 2014) – When Jose Ortiz of Ypsilanti, Mich. bought his 2010 Toyota Matrix at Dunning Toyota in December 2013, he didn’t realize the historical implication of his purchase. Ortiz’s decision enabled Toyota to become the first brand to sell 4 million certified pre-owned vehicles in automotive history.

The record-breaking sale was part of a banner year for Toyota, which sold more than 370,000 certified pre-owned vehicles in 2013.

To commemorate the milestone, Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of Toyota Division at Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., presented Ortiz with a check equal to the total cost of his Matrix. The ceremony took place at Dunning Toyota in Ann Arbor, Mich., the dealership where he bought his vehicle.

Toyota also marked occasion with a check presentation of the same amount to Alpha House Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN), a local non-profit that Dunning Toyota has sponsored for many years.

Located in Washtenaw County, IHN is an emergency shelter for children and their families experiencing homelessness. Through IHN’s ongoing support and advocacy, families remain securely housed, better able to cope with ongoing challenges and more connected to community resources.

“Driven by great teamwork, Toyota’s certified used vehicle program has been a tremendous success not only in terms of units sold, but also in building customer loyalty,” said Fay.  “Toyota was the first manufacturer to have a certified used vehicle program and there is no better way to celebrate this milestone than to buy a Toyota certified for our 4 millionth customer.  On behalf of Toyota, I’d like to thank Jose Ortiz for being part of the Toyota family.”

Courtesy of Toyota Newsroom: http://toyota.us/1hyY1uy