Blog

Schools are starting back up in just a few short days, so we thought it would be a great time to give student drivers a chance to get their first A+ of the school year.   Here’s some essential car maintenance tips for young drivers as they head back to class!  School your friends over cafeteria snacks with your amazing wisdom in all things automotive. more Check your seatbelts are working properly, and always remember to wear them. Not only is it the law, but it’s also imperative to your safety.  We know you’re in a rush to get to that school dance, the annual pep rally for homecoming, or even a froyo date with pals, but it’s important to get there safe and sound.  Make sure all passengers are wearing your seatbelts as well, not just the driver!  You can avoid costly traffic tickets and fines, as well as injury or death.  Be sure the seat belt fits properly, laying across your rib cage and pelvis, and that it latches securely and stays fastened if you tug on it. If your car has broken or outdated seatbelts, your local mechanic will be able to help you fit your vehicle with new, safer seat belt options. Bring your car in for a brakes inspection at your local mechanic shop. We know you’ve been out having the time of your life during summer vacation, driving to the beach, to theme parks, to the movies, etc.  And that’s why it’s important to bring your car in for inspection and service on a regular basis to ensure your brakes are properly working to keep you safe when you have to stop short.  If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side, vibrating, shaking, or making any funny noises when you slow down or come to a stop, it is more than likely you need a brakes system service appointment.  Don’t delay! Worn out brakes can mean you can’t stop quickly when you need to, or you may not be able to stop at all.  Keep yourself and your passengers safe with regular checks. Learn how to check your vehicle’s fluids, and top them off! Your vehicle will need regular refills, top-offs, and flushes of the various fluids in its system.  This includes wiper fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, motor oil, antifreeze/coolant, and sometimes even transmission fluid.  You want to make sure that you’re not delaying these checks and not letting things run dry.  Wiper fluid keeps your windshield clean and free of debris for proper visibility. Motor oil and regular oil changes will keep your engine running clean and prevent overheating.  Talk to your local mechanic to learn more about when and what you should be changing on your vehicle on average timelines, and check your owners’ manual for specific mileage needs for your make/model of car. Check that your interior lights and exterior brake lights/headlights are clean, clear, and shining brightly. Do a thorough test of your vehicle’s lights by checking headlights, high-beams, rear lights, turn signals, hazards, and brake lights.  As a friend or family member to walk around your vehicle as you test each one, and make sure to note what needs replacement or service.  Replace any and all worn-out or broken bulbs by taking a trip to your local auto parts supply store; your owners manual will help guide you to purchasing the right size, fit, and style of bulb. If replacing the bulb still hasn’t solved the problem, a trip to your local mechanic shop may be in order to check for electrical issues.  If everything is in working order but your headlamps look a little foggy, you can purchase a special cleaning kit from your local auto parts shop, or bring it in for a replacement piece of glass/plexiglass headlight covers.

The school year is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean the fun and adventure has to stop!  Today is National Book Lovers Day, so we’re celebrating the only way we know how: with incredible reading picks for your last blast of summer weekend getaway (or perhaps stacking your “TBR Pile” for the upcoming autumnal months!)  Whether you prefer to stow your books in an eReader for stolen glances while navigating as co-pilot, or you are the resident driver of the trip and prefer audiobooks, we know there’s something for you on our list.  So without further ado, let’s check it out and see if we can get on the same page as you by selecting some reading picks! more Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen (Audiobook narrated by Kate Mara) This psychological thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat! Filled with tension, trauma, and turmoil, the story follows the relationship between Catherine Sterling and her mother, Ruth Sterling.  This heartbreaking tale is a page-turning collection of secrets, lies, and the wildest ride of mother-daughter relationships!  If you’re looking for a dramatic, women centric tale to keep you engrossed, this fast-paced thriller is chock full of thrills to suck you right in. Alethea by Karina Day, Philomena Polefrone (Audiobook Ensemble Cast) SciFi fans will be immersed in this tightly woven plot filled with twists, turns, and tension!  Set in New York City in 2048, Sam Bixler is a scientist working for the world’s most powerful corporation, and is about to learn a shocking truth about the dark secrets her employer, Telos, is harboring beneath the surface.  Full of mystery, intrigue, and death defying thrills, this book will be the perfect exciting conclusion for your summer reading list. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (Narrated by Therese Plummer There’s nothing like a good summer romance to make you feel free as a bird and light as a feather!  Live vicariously through the cheeky and steamy love story between rival physicists Elsie Hannaway and Jack Smith, and follow along as the tension between them heats up in the lab and between the sheets.  Will Elsie get her dream job at MIT or will she get the man of her dreams? Por que no los dos!?  You’ll just have to find out in this thrilling summer read. The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud Fantasy fans will rejoice when they get their hands on the first installment of this imaginative trilogy!  Nathaniel is a magician’s apprentice with his heart set on a quest for revenge.  His dark intent to send a nefarious, strong-willed djinni on a quest to capture a sacred amulet thrusts him even further into the underbelly of society. Jampacked with thrills, chills, adventure, espionage, rebellion, and even murder, this is sure to keep younger readers riveted to their seat from beginning to end. Mission Unstoppable: The Genius Files, Book 1 by Dan Gutman Another great choice for younger readers on the go is this mystery adventure featuring kid detectives Coke and Pepsi McDonald!  These two siblings sure haven’t had your typical summer vacation, unless being chased across the country by your health teacher, dodging poison darts, thrown into a pit on top of some sand dunes, or near-drowning in a vat of liquified spam as “typical.”  Yes, you read that right!  The wacky hijinks of the McDonald Siblings is just the tip of the iceberg in The Genius Files series that we’re sure you will love as much as your kids do.

We’re so proud to be a part of the Kia family here at Classic Kia of Waukegan!  And we’re thrilled to announce that once again, Kia is blazing through this year with yet another record sales month for July 2023! The fast-growing company’s upward trend marks 12 consecutive months of year-over-year growth, with 6 models cementing their year-over-year increases, and five setting their best-ever July sales records.  In addition, Kia’s electrified vehicle offerings have seen sales rise 72% over this time last year, as well as sales of utility models rising 17%.  Let’s take a closer look at this incredible success and celebrate together. more Continuing the upward momentum, Kia America has set an all-time record for July sales by moving 70,930 units, marking a 14% increase on the same period in 2022 last year, as well as breaking the previous record of July 2021!  Kia’s retail sales in July totaled 66,485, marking a 13% year-over-year increase. During Kia’s 12th month of consecutive sales growth, six models in particular posted consistent year-over-year sales increases. The Kia Niro rose 384%; the Kia Carnival rose 136%; the Kia Seltos rose 39%; the Kia Rio rose 18%, the Telluride rose 17%; the EV6 rose 13%. The five Kia vehicles that achieved their best-ever sales in July include the Kia Carnival, up 40%, the Kia Seltos, up 17%, and the Niro, Telluride, and EV6 all up 13%! Other big news this month includes the announcement of a new Kia joint venture initiative to expand high-powered charging in North America. Together with BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis, Kia has joined forces to install a minimum of 30,000 high=powered charging points in urban and highway locations across the US. The goal is to ensure EV owners can charge wherever and whenever they need, and increase usage of reliable renewable energy sources. Additionally, both the Kia EV6 and the Kia Telluride received SlashGear’s Best Cars of 2023 awards. The EV6 received Best EV; the Telluride received Best Family SUV. It’s an exciting time to be in the Kia family, and we’re excited to see what the future holds! Kia Sales Totals for July and Year To Date: MONTH OF JULY YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2023 2022 2023 2022 EV6 1,937 1,716 10,265 14,284 Rio 2,358 1,992 16,554 16,910 Forte 11,004 10,016 73,065 61,822 K5 6,215 6,440 37,112 41,752 Stinger 464 513 5,018 5,676 Soul 5,123 5,322 39,870 32,930 Niro 3,112 643 22,437 18,309 Seltos 5,251 3,790 37,674 23,556 Sportage 11,853 11,985 83,742 64,341 Sorento 8,569 9,473 51,376 48,518 Telluride 9,759 8,318 65,043 55,211 Carnival 5,285 2,241 23,107 12,479 Total 70,930 62,449 465,263 395,789

Summer is winding down to a close; the heat is tapering off and the days are getting shorter, but it doesn’t mean the fun is over.  Let’s all enjoy a last blast of summer making memories with the people we love the most, doing things we’ll talk about for years to come!  Today, we’re celebrating National Campfire day with a great list of Stargazing Road Trips to take in the midwest. Gather your best pals and your family and let's hit the road to fun, adventure, and exploration as we embark on some nighttime camping fun to appreciate the heavens. Check it out on today’s blog, and then let us know your picks for best stargazing spots in the area! more Best Stargazing Destinations for Dark Sky Viewing Middle Fork River Forest Preserve - Champaign County, Illinois This newly designated National Park takes home the gold when it comes to stargazing territory!  With three different Dark Sky Viewing Areas to choose from, you’ll have a blast with your loved ones at 3 varying levels of darkness for your comfort.  The Campground is considered a Level 1 location, with dark-sky approved lighting throughout the campgrounds.  Sugar Creek is a Level 2 Dark Sky area, with no lighting, a public restroom, and an open air shelter.  The North Waterfowl Area is a Level 3 Dark Sky area, featuring no restrooms or amenities, but a very dark area with prime sightlines for stargazing.  The Dark Sky programs are open to the public and take place in both the Activity Center and North Waterfowl areas, complete with presentations and informational segments for visitors to learn more about what they’ll be experiencing.  Keep in mind that camping is only available in designated areas, and you must obey camp rules about ambient lighting, flashlights, and pets as well. Palos Preserves in Willow Springs, Illinois This Urban Night Sky Place is the largest in the world!  It stretches across more than 6,600 acres, and emits around 1000x less light than downtown Chicago.  The Forest Preserve works very hard to protect the local nighttime environment, so please do your best to observe their overnight camping procedures and regulations about ambient lighting.  Some areas will be closed off during different seasons or have monthly limitations.  Other areas may close before sunset. Obey all posted signage for your safety and that of the environment.  J oin in on special events such as the August Moon Walk or the Dark Sky Walk for special guided tours run by the FPDCC! There’s even a Telescope Party at Swallow Cliff Woods-South in Cook County. White Rock Conservancy in Coon Rapids, Iowa This year round nature preserve may not be an officially designated Dark Sky Park, but it still offers phenomenal views of the night sky and constellations!  This 5,500 acre land trust has evolved from an oak tree savanna habitat into a special destination for stargazing. The park has a spectacular designated “Star Field” where visitors can camp to observe the best views of the night sky, free from artificial light and generators.  Cars are restricted at these campgrounds to preserve the darkest skies opportunity. Reservations are first-come, first-served, so book early! They also host an annual “Star Party” in partnership with the Ames Area Amateur Astronomers, where you can get some educational demonstrations and lectures about the importance of reducing light pollution and learn about observing the night sky. Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan This incredible Dark Sky designated park offers some superior stargazing in its 550 acres of pristine woodlands and 2 miles of undeveloped swathes of Lake Michigan Shorelines!  This destination is so impressive that it received the official Dark Sky designation in 2011, one of the first 10 International Dark Sky Parks in the world!  You’ll spot the Orion constellation in March and April, and may catch a glimpse of it in May as it descends into the western skyline.  By the time summer is in full swing, the Milky Way is in full glory, spreading across the sky with gorgeous twinkling stars and impressive views.  You may even catch a meteor shower or two!  As Summer wanes and Autumn rolls around you’ll get to view the Persieds in August, the Draconids and Orionids in October, and the Leonids in November! You may even spot the Aurora if you’re lucky enough.

Today is American Family Day, a special holiday designated for spending time with your family and enjoying life’s beautiful moments together!  We’re sharing some great local area spots to hang out that are family friendly and will give you hours of endless entertainment and memory making.  Check it out below and feel free to tell us your favorite family activities in the area so our readers can check them out, too! more Children’s Neighborhood Museum in Round Lake offers hours of indoor fun and entertainment for families where kids can explore what it’s like to live, work, and play in different businesses and establishments in a kid-sized neighborhood! Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in Milwaukee is an interactive and educational museum for kids 10 and under to get hands-on experimenting and adventures!  Kids will have so much fun exploring and playing they’ll never know that it’s educational. The Children’s Play Gallery in Oconomowoc was created for children and families to explore self-discovery, mental and motor skills development, and other educational opportunities through the experience of play!  Reservations are highly recommended here, so book before you go. Kids will have a blast creating, experimenting, and exploring this indoor museum and exhibits. WonderWorks Children's Museum in Oak Park is a non-profit indoor children's museum and creative play space offering eight experience zones, specialty workshops and events, and dance parties! Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration in Chicago offers a unique perspective and opportunity for children to learn about incoming American Immigrants.  Special programs include weekend brunches, farm-to-table experiences, and even a high tea!  The Museum does have a special focus for Swedish Immigrants as it’s located in the Swedish American Museum Center, but it offers a variety of educational experiences and history lessons for kids! Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha is a kid centric, family friendly museum that may be just one room, but is chock full of dinosaur fun facts and information. It’s also the only museum to focus on the link between meat-eating dinosaurs and birds!  You’ll learn about ancient carnivorous dinosaurs and modern day birds through permanent and rotating exhibits. Lake County Dunn Museum in Libertyville is now known as the Bess Bower Dunn Museum, but it’s still the same great place you know and love!  This interactive museum is a great destination for families to get a hands-on educational experience of history, the arts, and pop culture!  It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn local history specifically. Exploratorium in Skokie is a perfect place for families to come together and enjoy not just an indoor playground, but an interactive play inspired educational experience.  From make-believe and dress up areas to a climbing wall and two-and-a-half story jungle gym with tunnels and tubes, your family will spend hours exploring and living their best life and never want to leave! My Museum at Quest Academy in Palatine offers a rotating series of exhibits aimed at inspiring children through the art of play!  Your kids will love the current exhibit running with an Alice in Wonderland themed play area and tea party, or dress up in costumes and play in various real-world career choices.  This museum presents a unique experience as it’s built for kids and by kids! That’s right, the creative arts students at the Quest Academy have imagined, designed, and helped create the dynamic rotating exhibits and props as part of their workshop and class experiences.  Isn’t that amazing? It’s one-of-a-kind! How will you be celebrating American Family Day with your loved ones?

In case you haven’t heard, it’s National Dash Cam Day! These pocket sized cameras are rising in popularity, and are a great secondary or tertiary way to provide extra safety and security in your vehicle.  It can save you money and time during accidents by providing law enforcement and insurance companies with footage instead of relying on “he said/she said/they said” of bystanders, onlookers, and drivers.  Experts are also highly recommending that parents equip their teen or young driver’s car with these handy mini cameras to provide an extra layer of protection and driving habit monitoring. So let’s take a look at some great options in Dash Cam technology that won’t break your bank or set your wallet on fire, clocking in under the $200 mark! more BlauPunkt HD Dash Cam with Night Vision and 720P available on Amazon for $18.16 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Lightweight and compact design Built-in Microphone and G-Sensor Continuous Loop Recording 4GB MicroSD Card included 1080P HD onn. Brand Black Dash Car Cam, 2.4” LCD Screen via Walmart.com for $29.88 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: 110-degree Wide Angle Lens Easy Set-Up and Operation in minutes Can be hidden from driver view behind rearview mirror Motion activated 1080P FHD 3 Inch Car Camera with Wide Angle Screen Dash Cam sold at Home Depot, $39.83 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Easy to Set-Up and user-friendly design Super Wide Angle Lens Super Night Vision Capabilities Seamless Loop for uninterrupted recording Front and Rear Facing views Built in microphone and speaker Rove R2-4K Dash Cam with Built In WiFi GPS Car Top Dashboard Camera Recorder with UHD 2160P and Night Vision available on Amazon at for $99.99 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: Built-In WiFi via the ROVE App to view recordings instantly on your smartphone Dash Cam with GPS to record your driving location and speed F1.8 apertures and 150 degree wide angle lens G-Sensor and loop cycle recording Superb clarity in low-light situations and Super Night Vision Technology for clearer footage Car and Driver 1080P Full HD or 4K Dual View Dash Cam available on Amazon for $170.99 or $199.99 at the time of this blog’s publication Key Features: 1080P camera features Dual front and rear cameras for multipoint viewing 3” OLED Touchscreen Drivesmart Alert System G-Sensor Collision Detection 4K Camera option features Super Wide Angle Lens with 170 degree angles Drivesmart Alert System 3” IPS Touch Screen Secure magnetic hold with 360 degree mount

Today is National Assistance Dog Day, celebrating the many tasks and jobs that hardworking pups do across the globe as service animals to their handlers!  Let’s take a look at some of the dos-and-don'ts, ins-and-outs surrounding the different things you need to know about Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs including how they travel and use public transportation. more What is a task trained Service Dog versus an Emotional Support Animal? A service dog is task-trained to provide assistance and/or mitigate a person’s disabilities.  They have been individually trained to perform a task such as retrieve, alert, mobility assistance, etc.  Service Animals require a specific temperament and personality, and are federally protected working animals.  The work or task they perform must be specifically related to the handler’s disability. This includes Guide Dogs/Seeing Eye Dogs, Hearing or Signal Dogs, Psychiatric Service Dogs, Sensory/Social Signal Dogs, Medical/Seizure Response Dogs, and similar Alert Dogs.  A persons disability may be visibly apparent, or may be considered an “invisible disability or invisible illness” meaning signs may not be overtly obvious; service teams of all kinds are valid, regardless. There are no limitations to size or breed of service animals, so you may see the typical options (Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Goldendoodles, German Shepherds) or you may see more unconventional breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies, or mixed breed rescue/shelter animals! A doctor’s note or letter does not certify animals as a service animal, rather they have been through a rigorous program of obedience and behavior management and explicitly specific task training classes.  Service animals are not required to be labeled or vested, though many handlers do opt to do so for easy travel and to help the public understand not to interact with these task-trained animals. There is some confusion between the designation of An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) versus a Task Trained Working Service Dog. An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is not the same nor equal to a service animal.  In contrast to a task-trained Service Animal, ESAs merely provide comfort and emotional reassurance, but have not been trained to perform any specific tasks or behaviors to assist an individual’s disability. ESAs are not afforded the same public access rights, although a medically certified ESA may be allowed to override “no pet” policies in housing and lodging.  You cannot bring your ESA into public areas that are not specifically designated as Pet Friendly. Specially trained and task-oriented Service Animals are considered as vital to a disabled person’s functionality as any other mobility aid or medical device, and thus will be allowed into most spaces where your pet or an ESA may not be permitted.  Falsely labeling your animal as a service animal can cause serious harm or injury to working animals. Bringing your Pet or an ESA into unpermitted public places can interfere with working Service Dog Teams and cause issues. Please be respectful and mindful of these parameters and policies so you can continue to help keep Service teams safe! Many service dogs perform life-saving tasks, and interfering with or distracting these animals can mean the difference between safety and injury or death of the handler. Let’s all do our part to learn the etiquette of being a member of the public within the vicinity of a working team. If you see a service animal in a public environment or on public transportation, here are some do’s-and-don’t’s: Do not approach or distract the animal; if you have a question, approach the handler only. We love dogs as much as the next person, but it’s important to know this is not your average dog, but it’s not appropriate to make kissy noises, whistles, or other physical or verbal cues to get a Service Dog’s attention. You may approach the handler respectfully if you have questions, but please be aware they may not be able to respond to you or may not wish to answer questions.  A resting or sleeping service dog is still on duty. Assume that every dog you meet is a working canine, and never touch a service dog without permission first. Likewise, do not allow your dog to walk up to other dogs without asking permission or speaking to the handler to verify. Service dogs may not be vested or tagged at all times, and it is not a requirement of ADA regulations that they do so.  Be mindful of interactions with dogs in public and always ask a handler if it is safe to pet or approach the animal. It may be someone’s mobility aid or medical device!  Allowing other dogs to interact without permission can cause irreparable damage to this working team. Don’t judge. Service dogs undergo an average of 2 years worth of training before they’re fit for the job, and it requires rigorous training and public access tests.  If you see a working dog in an unexpected place such as a food establishment or public transportation, they’re allowed to be there and the establishment will handle it.  Although service dogs are trained for public access, they’re still dogs and may have days off the same as you and me even if they’re doing their best!  You do not need to interfere with the handler by correcting the animal; the handler will take necessary steps. An Unattended Service Dog is a sign that its handler needs help. If you see a service dog wandering around without its handler and it approaches you, follow the dog and it will lead you to its owner.  You can identify the handler, assess the situation, check for medical info, and call 9-1-1 if needed.  A service dog may nudge, paw, or bark at you to alert you to an emergency situation. How do Service Dog Teams Travel safely in cars and on public transport? Chartered car services and public transportation may not refuse service to a passenger due to the presence of a task-trained working service dog; service animals must be allowed public access same as the owner, even on ride share services such as Uber or Lyft or private taxi/limo. Service dogs will usually be trained with a catchphrase for loading and unloading into the vehicle, and must sit quietly after doing so.  They should not be allowed to roam from front to back. They should remain calm and quiet when someone approaches the vehicle Secure your service dog with a car harness and short tether.  Special seatbelts and tethers can be purchased for your dog that click into seat belt attachments and keep your dog secured to the vehicle backseat or inside their car seat in the event of an accident. Secure your service dog with a car harness and long tether. A long tether allows your canine to sit securely in theri car seat or a vehicle backseat, or to lay down on the floor beneath your feet safely. Use a travel kennel to secure your service dog. Special hard-case plastic or metal travel kennels are a great way to secure and protect your service dog while traveling. Tether the kennel to the vehicle’s cargo area or back seat to prevent jostling or being tossed around in event of an accident.

Summer is winding down. Back to School energy is in full swing!  And we’re here to help ease the transition from high school to college with this handy guide for inbound college students.  Let us help you take the stress out of packing your car as you embark on your journey from home to school, either for the first time or a return to your dorm/apartment.  There’s always room to improve your packing skills and learn something new!  So let’s get started so you can get on the road to independence faster. more If you’ve got a tip that can help incoming students learn what they do and don’t need for their college experience, feel free to drop us a line in the comments on our social media to share your thoughts!  We’d love to hear from our clients and customers on what worked best for you and your students. Tip #1: Label your boxes, bags, and baskets and write up an inventory list! Packing lists aren’t just for moving houses and apartments, but they can also be a great tool for organizing your belongings on road trips and for school travel.  Sit down and create a list of items you’ll need to bring, and organize them into categories such as “Bedroom”, “Clothing”, “Study Gear”, “Electronics”, “Kitchen”, etc.  Group similar items together and assign them a color code and/or number to make it easier for you to unload and unpack when you arrive at your housing or dorm.  This will also make it easier to determine where in the vehicle your items will go, with heavier items placed at the bottom and lighter items on the top, or cargo space versus trailer versus roof rack! Tip #2: Learn the limits of your vehicle’s tow capacity as well as interior weight limits for transporting passengers/cargo! It’s tempting to try to cram as much as you can into the hatchback of your SUV or hybrid, or to jam pack your truck or van’s cargo space to the end of its limits.  But did you know that meeting or exceeding that weight limit can cause irreparable damage to your car as well as your goods?  You can greatly affect your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, steering, and tires if you overload the weight capacity.  Check the load capacity in your owners’ manual to make sure you don’t over stuff it!  If you’ve got towing options or a roof rack, remember to factor that in as well.  And, of course, before you hit the road, give your tire pressure a check to make sure the air pressure hasn’t changed and adjust as needed. Tip #3:  Pack efficiently and leave non-essential items behind. While it’s tempting to stuff your luggage and pack for every single scenario and season, you’ll save a lot of time, energy, money, and fuel if you pack efficiently.  Consider the seasons and weather conditions for your college town, and pack appropriately. If you’ll be coming home between semesters or on holidays, consider packing seasonal wardrobes that you can swap out on your visits home instead of lugging 365 days and 4 seasons worth. College schedules don’t just include studying, tests, and papers but also social events, parties, day trips, and more, so make sure you’re only taking items with you that you’ll use in your down time.  It can be tempting to haul suitcases worth of books, games, and other entertainment with you, but be realistic about how much time you’ll be spending using those extraneous items you’re hankering to take with you. Tip #4: Secure your cargo in baskets, bins, and bags, and use cargo anchors or straps to avoid piling up loose items, but remember to leave room for clear visibility! Make sure that all of your belongings are safely stowed and secured with little to no chance of movement.  Before you hit the road, you should give it some due diligence to ensure that everything is tightly secured down so it shifts as little as possible during your journey.  In the event that you need to stop short, heavy loads may shift or come loose and could impair your vision or even become dangerous projectiles in an accident. Don’t block windows or pile loose things over the height of your rear seat.  Be mindful as well that anything blocking or covering up your views of any mirrors or rear windows may be considered an “Obstruction of View” and lead to a traffic ticket! Tip #5:  Keep your essential items within reach for easy access and emergencies. Make sure that items such as your first aid kit, fire extinguisher, emergency car kit, flashlight, and other essentials are within easy reach at a moment’s notice.  Make sure that your charging cables are organized neatly in the center console or other accessible area so you’re not fiddling for items while on the road.

Looking for something fun to watch on your lunch break? Can’t get enough time in the garage and need more car content to keep you going between sessions? Doing a little research on the best gear, tech, and gadgets for your ride? We’ve got you covered with today’s fun car post filled with Gearhead YouTube Videos! That’s right, it’s time for another edition of Classic’s Youtuber RoundUp. more We really appreciate this video by Donut Media called “Testing Real vs. Counterfeit Car Parts” where the crew compares brand name products to their fake/replica counterparts.  Learn which items are worth their salt, and which ones may pose a risk to your safety and security on the road.  The Donut team is testing them out so you don’t have to! If you’re looking to stock your car with great emergency gear that’s efficient, safe, and legitimate, we think you’re going to like this next video from Donut Media where they review “$20 vs $2000 car Jacks” for your entertainment and education! In the market for a pre owned or used vehicle for your high school or college student? Well, then this video by Car Wizard on Youtube is going to be just your speed.  He’s got a great lineup of School Cars to Buy and Not to Buy that will give you a great starting point on your shopping journey. Maybe you’re looking for some inspiration to motivate yourself to clean your vehicle. Maybe you just enjoy some car detailing videos for the satisfaction of before and after. Either way, you’ll love this video from The Detail Geek where he explains “What Happens When You NEVER Clean your Vehicle”! Sarah-N-Tuned is sharing another fun video of her 1980s collectible Supra (which you can enter to win via her channel!) where she is giving 40+ years of dirt, grime, and grease the ol’ heave ho with a massive under car detailing job! Check it out. Looking to learn more about the 2023 Kia EV6 GT and find out what makes this one of the most awarded SUVs of this year?  Well look no further than this wonderful video from CarPro where they review and test drive this magnificent vehicle with host Jerry Reynolds. AutoTrader is giving us an inside look at what makes the Kia EV6 GT an incredible choice for affordability with luxury feel and a sense of excitement that turns it from family friendly car to exciting weekend warrior! Check it out here.

We’re back with another fun community calendar of events for Lake County and the Greater Chicago Area with plenty of fun events, festivals, concerts, and more to enjoy with your family. So what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic Auto Group and let’s hit the road to adventure and fun for a last blast of Summertime fun! more August 1st and 2nd sees the return of the annual Lake Forest Day in West Park over at Lake Forest. You’ll enjoy family friendly fun games and rides, entertainment, fun summer foods, a 5K run, parade, and carnival. From August 4th through the 6th, head over to Foss Park in North Chicago for “North Chicago CommUNITY Days” and enjoy a parade, car show, live music and entertainment, a family friendly kid zone with games and activities, delicious food and beverage, fireworks and so much more!! Morgan Park Roots Throwback Music Festival is rolling up on August 5th at Ada Park Playground in Chicago, families can get ready for a free event packed with good food, live music, line dancing, and so much more. There will be plenty for families and children to enjoy too, including games, events, and more.  Running from 12PM to 7PM! Gurnee Days are back in Gurnee from August 12th through the 13th with the annual festival of fun including live music concerts, entertainment, contests and competitions, food vendors and food trucks, fireworks, a parade, and so much family fun you’ll never run out of things to do! August 10th and 11th is going to be an unforgettable, memory filled experience at the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe for the annual Kite Festival. You’ll enjoy an opportunity to attend the kite-making event, and then experience a kite-flying performance! It is free entry to attend the festival but there are parking fees. The Brazilian Festival is coming to town August 12th from 11AM to 6PM in Lake Zurich at Paulus Park. Enjoy live music, special attractions, local and specialty vendors, delicious food, and so much more. On August 17th from 11AM to 1PM enjoy Family Yoga on the Farm with Yoga Nova and Growing Home at 59th and Honore. On August 19th from 9AM to 1PM at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, sign up for the Chicago/Milwaukee Rugged Maniac Race! It’s an obstacle mud runner race with the World’s Largest Mud Pit and 25 obstacles in between you and the finish line! And it all culminates in an exciting festival and after party you don’t want to miss. On August 19th and September 15th, head over to Gallery Guichard in Chicago to enjoy the Bronzeville Art District Trolley Tour 2023.  You’ll have a chance to attend events and view beautiful artwork at Blanc Gallery, Bronzeville Artist Lofts, Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery Guichard, and the Southside Community Center Saturday August 19th at Skokie Village Hall from 10AM to 5PM is ROXSTAR’s Rockin Vintage Fest where cinephiles of all ages can share a love of classic films and filmmaking along with a chance to shop collectibles, vintage fashion, vinyl records, and so much more. There will also be lots of live music, events, and dancing! August 24th through 27th in Lindenhurst is the ever so fun Lindenfest! A four day festival jam packed with enjoyment including carnival rides, games, bingo, live music and entertainment, battle of the bands, mayor’s auction, a pageant, and a parade! On September 8th through September 10th at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, head on out to the Lake County RV Outlet Show hosted by RV Outlet Shows for a free event and get some inspiration to plan the cross-country RV trip of your dreams! Save the date on September 9th to enjoy the 2023 Moon Festival at Pacifica Square in Aurora, IL organized by the Global Friendship Exchange Program for food, games, prizes and giveaways, contests and competitions, performances celebrating Asian cultures, lanterns, and of course: moon cakes!

Is your teen ready to hit the road in their very first car?  Your recent graduate heading off to college on their own and in need of a reliable vehicle?  Let the experts here at Classic guide you on your journey to selecting the perfect car for your teen driver. more We’re here to help you navigate the ins-and-outs of selecting a car, by highlighting three easy talking points for families to jumpstart your shopping. When you’re ready to buy, just head on into our dealerships and our trusted, experienced sales staff will have your teen behind the wheel of the safest, budget friendly vehicle in no time! Easy Car Buying Guide for Teens and Families Many families will share cars with new drivers, or will pass down an older model as parents upgrade their ride.  But if you’re buying your first car outright, make sure you settle on a comfortable price point. Decide on your budget. Paying for a car up front can save you a lot of money in the long run.  Set a budget that you can comfortably afford to pay via cash or check, and avoid costly interest fees on loans.  Remember to include title fees/transfers, registration costs, and initial insurance payments in that budget. If you need a loan, younger drivers will require a co-signer due to lack of credit history and less stable employment history.  Be sure to talk this out as a family, and decide the best course of action ahead of loan applications. Many loans also come with title fees, a down payment requirement, and other costs, so be sure to do your research on that. Read all financial paperwork and sales agreements very carefully. If you’re a younger driver, be sure to bring along a parent or guardian who can help you navigate the agreements and negotiate your best deals. Most new drivers opt for budget-friendly used cars, but there are pros and cons to each.  Sit down together and list out the potential costs and benefits of new versus pre-owned, and it will give you some perspective on operating costs. Decide whether you’re going for a new or used ca r. Newer cars are the most advanced options, and have lower associated repair costs, but they do require financing or leasing and more expensive insurance. Older used cars can be a more economical option up front, you’ll have a wider variety of makes/models to choose from, but there is always a higher risk for repairs and maintenance. Weigh both as a family and decide which you prefer. Make sure all of your car searches factor in the following: safety features, reliability and longevity, fuel economy, tech and digital features, vehicle resale value. After you’ve reached a budget plan, it’s time to consider a few things, such as what will be your daily usage, what features do you need, are you the sole driver or sharing, etc. Do thorough research on your options. Decide what features are must-haves and what you can do without. Each make and model year of car has different features and amenities. It’s up to you and your lifestyle to find the right match of indispensable electronic and convenience features. Consider things like: Do you need a GPS?  Can you do without satellite radio or do you require digital interfaces?  Will a hybrid, all electric, or gas vehicle be best for your daily driving needs?  Do you need room for equipment such as sports gear, bikes, luggage, school supplies, etc? Figure out your daily mileage (home to school and back, school to work and back, average weekend visits with friends) and determine your average gas costs. Choose a car that fits your monthly budget with good gas mileage or higher electric charge mileage. Research average insurance coverage costs and payments for the make/model of cars you’re looking at, and best coverage that ensures your safety and fits within your budget. This can be a monthly, quarterly, or yearly expense depending on payment plan selection. Do you have a first-time car buying tip that helped your family find the right fit financially and practically for their young drivers? Let us know in the comments of our social media post for this blog.

Here at Classic Kia, we’re so excited to announce that Kia has once again achieved incredibly high accolades and set another record best! That’s right, Kia has officially set the bar high by achieving the highest total number of awards ever earned in a single year by a brand in the J.D. Power 2023 Automotive performance, execution, and layout study thanks to high ranks from 6 different Kia models; it is the most awarded to a single manufacturer in the APEAL Study’s 28 year history! Kia received more J.D. Power APEAL Awards than have ever been earned in a single year by any brand in the 28-year history of the J.D. Power U.S. APEAL Study 2023 EV6, Telluride, Forte, Carnival, Stinger, K5, and Rio earned Best-in-Class Awards Combined, Kia earned the highest number of awards across the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. APEAL and 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Studies than any other brand in the industry in a single year more For the second year running, three Kia models took home the top honors in their segments: The All-Electric Kia EV6 was rated Most Appealing Compact SUV; the Kia Carnival was rated the Most Appealing Minivan; the K5 was rated the Most Appealing Midsize Car.  In addition, four Kia models ranked Number One in their segments: The Kia Telluride was awarded Most Appealing Upper Midsize SUV; the Kia Forte was rated Most Appealing Compact Car; the Kia Rio was Most Appealing Small Car; the Kia Stinger was Most Appealing Midsize Premium Car. And all seven vehicles were ranked as “Most Appealing” for driver experience, and ranked number one in driver satisfaction during the 2023 J.D Power APEAL Study! The 2023 study was based on responses from more than 84,000 owners of these new 2023 model-year vehicles; they were surveyed after a 90 day period of ownership.