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Today is Manufacturing Day, a time when manufacturers open their doors and educate the general public in their processes, foster career growth in the industry, and provide insight into the positive potential of modern manufacturing to improve conditions globally.  Over the next decade, it’s expected that manufacturers will seek to fill nearly 4 million jobs! This annual initiative is hosted by The Manufacturing Institute with partnership from Fabricators & Manufacturers Association to not only grow the industry but diversify its ranks through skills training, community building, and support for women, veterans, students, and workers. Let’s take a look at some interesting facts about the automotive industry and related manufacturing: By 2030, it’s anticipated that the automotive industry will achieve nearly $9 trillion in revenue/sales. In 2020 the US Motor Vehicle and Retail Parts trade revenue was $1.25 trillion The United States produced 8.8 million vehicles in 2020, which is 19% less than in 2019 In 2021, nearly 15 million vehicles were sold across the United States In 2021, the global automotive manufacturing market was more than $2.8 trillion USD As of 2021, the automotive industry manufacturing market in the US was valued at $82.6 billion In 2022, the global automotive manufacturing market is expected to grow to nearly $3 trillion USD In 2022, the current revenue of the car and automotive manufacturing industry is an estimated $100.9 billion USD (ibisworld) In 2022, it is expected that the US Car and Automotive manufacturing industry will increase in growth by nearly 3% (ibisworld) Due to increasing demand, it’s anticipated that 26% of net car sales will be electric vehicles in 2030, with 58 million new self-driving cars hitting roads by the same year according to Statista. An estimated 923,000 US residents work in motor vehicle and parts manufacturing and the average automotive production worker salary in the United States if $31,000 annually The automotive industry employs more than 1.7 million people who are all involved in the design, engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, assembling, and sales/service of motor vehicles Some of the best paid positions in automotive manufacturing include: Automotive Designers, Automotive Engineers, Coordinate Measuring Machine Technicians, Mechanics, Process Engineers, Process Technicians, and Production Supervisors Only 15% of automotive production workers are women, as opposed to 85% which are men; the industry is seeking to improve these statistics and diversify the workforce and promote equal employment opportunities Here’s some great videos that detail the process of manufacturing and assembling vehicles from factory to the consumer: Behind the Scenes at Vodafone and Automotive Manufacturing Tools and Tech UpSkul Explains the Car Manufacturing Process Car Parts Explained by Car Manufacturing Channel on YouTube Inside Lake County Manufacturing New Kia Sportage Production Plant 2022

Today is National Truckers Day!  In the age of lighting-fast shipping, ubiquitous subscription services, and even grocery delivery, today’s Truck Drivers are more valuable than ever; in fact, the industry is expected to grow 21% in the next 10 years as a result!  So let’s take a look at some of the neat fun facts about the trucking industry, and the ways that it’s evolving with our ever-changing world! The first semi truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton from Cleveland Ohio since he needed a way to transport his cars to buyers many miles away. German-American blacksmith Charles Freuhauf is credited with inventing the first tractor trailer in 1914, devised as a way of conveniently transporting his boat! There are over 15 million trucks in operation today across the United States, and if you lined them up end-to-end they would reach from Earth to the Moon! Truck engines are engineered to drive more than one million miles before they’re retired, which is 800,000 more miles than the average car engine lasts. Talk about efficiency! Since the trucking industry consumes about 50 billion gallons of fuel each year, with the average commercial truck consuming 20,500 gallons of gas annually. As a result, engineers are committed to producing cleaner fuel vehicles such as clean diesel, hybrid, and even electric models, and it’s come a long way already! Operating one diesel truck back in 1988 equates to the clean diesel emissions of sixty of today’s modern trucks, and emissions from large trucks have been cut over 95% in the past two decades. 1 in every 14 jobs in the United States is directly affected by the trucking industry, something we’ve all become heavily aware of during the ongoing Covid19 pandemic. The majority of trucking companies across the US are small business operations from everything like fresh food to medical supplies to livestock to construction supplies. Have you ever ordered groceries online for delivery? Perhaps you have your favorite pantry items on autoship fulfillment? Or maybe you’ve dined out at a restaurant recently? Then you will find it less than surprising that 90% of Americans like you have eaten food that’s been delivered via refrigerated truck! While we’re ordering overnight goods and groceries to our cozy homes, the truckers who deliver them are spending an average of 240 nights away from their homes and families each calendar year. About 60% of Truck Drivers today own pets, and 40% of those drivers take their buddies on the road with them. There are more than 3.5 million truck drivers in the United States, and on average the age of drivers is older than most other professions at 45 to 46 years old.

Today is National Techies’ day and we’re covering some of the latest and greatest in updates to automotive technology including some features we now use everyday that once seemed quite futuristic!  From self-driving cars to plug-in hybrids to voice activated features, we’re taking a look into some of the latest and greatest features of the automotive industry.  Whether you’re looking for a daily driver, family car, or even something to hit the track on weekends, there’s so much fascinating technology on the market today and in the pipeline pending!  Let’s take a look at some of the latest news on updates to vehicle design, new tricks for older cars, and other advances in technology together on today’s blog. When Marty McFly and the Doc hit the road in the mid 1980s in their flying time machine DeLorean, it seemed a far off futuristic concept.  How could we have such astounding tech as hoverboards, electric cars,or flying cars?  Yet here we are in 2022, looking down the pipeline at some of the most fascinating and convenient amenities in technological advances. Today, we’ve got smart tech hybrid vehicles that can optimize fuel efficiency without human interference, and fuel-free vehicles that charge anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours for up to 350+ miles in range, and with feature options such as Built-in 4G LTE and 5G Wi-Fi hotspots allowing passengers and drivers to access phone calls, streaming services, GPS apps and much more without having to use their wireless carrier’s data plan. Enjoying the backup cameras, lane-keep assist, and collision warning features?  Miniature camera sensors installed all around the car, surveilling the exterior of your vehicle for objects, people, animals, and obstructions, something that just a few decades prior seemed only achievable in science fiction movies.  Got your hands full from all the grocery shopping?  Not a problem! Your truck or SUV is equipped with sensors to open and close the trunk, hatch, and doors upon sensing you approaching.  Hate getting into a hot car in summer or a frigid car in winter? Many cars also feature not just heated seats but cooling and massaging options, with modern styling that’s as much about ergonomics as it is aesthetics.  What once seemed unattainable is now the every day! It’s really, really impressive how far we’ve come in just a short amount of time! And that, friends, is just the beginning.  Let’s investigate some of the unveilings and concept vehicles of recent years automotive conventions and shows! Take a peek at every electrical vehicle that was on display at this year’s recent Chicago Auto Show thanks to EV Motoring on YouTube. Kia has announced that they’ll have 14 fully electric models by 2027!  The EV9 SUV, unveiled in 2021 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, will be the first car to use autonomous driving technology, AutoMode. AutoMode is the range of autonomous driving technologies including a highway driving pilot mode, and a series of additional self-driving tech and safety features.  The vehicle is expected to be launched in 2023! Learn more about this feature and vehicle here: The new future of racing may just be this incredible car from Hyundai like the N Vision 74 Drift car.  Are you itching to see the new tech live and in action for this concept car come to life? Well, we’re thrilled to share this video from Top Gear where you’ll get to see this one-of–a-kind vehicle take a few rounds on the track.  And we’ve got to say, we’re really excited about it, and it gets our little gearhead hearts revving for sure. Attendees to the Chicago Auto Show 2022 this year got a great look at the Toyota Rhombus Concept Car.  This vehicle is a battery-powered electric vehicle with an aggressive and modern looking diamond shaped design.  While the vehicle may or may not be produced in its current incarnation, it’s been thus far well-received by enthusiasts. It places high value on interior space comforts with ample legroom and swivel seats for a lounge-like interior.  The good news is that this is just one of their 10 BEVs anticipated for announcement over the next few years. Toyota also dropped a series of incredible updates to their model range and tech, and has unveiled new features and at least 6 different electric vehicles.  They’re expanding their lineup with an increase in options and models in the HFCVs, EVs, Hybrids categories. Let’s check out the 2023 Toyota bZ4X electric vehicle and its features here: Looking for a hybrid model car in your favorite crossover size? Toyota’s got you covered with the Corolla Crossover Hybrid 2023: Take a look at some of the features and aesthetics of the upcoming Toyota Vehicles including electric cars such as the Rhombus and the bz4x…and even flying cars: Looking to explore concept cars and independent builds for futuristic vehicles? Check out these cool videos for even more neat automotive technology. VantaTech is exploring 55 of the most beautiful future concept cars with designs predicted from 2023 through 2050 in concept releases. The Fully Charged show got a sneak peak at the Aptera, an incredibly unique EV inspired by none other than fish!

“Clouds” spot highlights new X-Pro model for Kia’s flagship SUV The new Telluride will be showcased during a 105-second integration mirroring EMMY AWARD categories and celebrated television genres including comedy, drama, action thriller, and reality THE NEW KIA TELLURIDE X-PRO CLIMBS HIGH IN NEW CREATIVE CAMPAIGN DEBUTING DURING THE 74TH EMMY® AWARDS IRVINE, Calif., September 12, 2022 – Kia’s most-awarded vehicle ever, the Telluride SUV, is the star of a new creative campaign and in-show video integration making their debut tonight during the live primetime broadcast of the 74 TH EMMY ® AWARDS on NBC. For 2023, Kia’s flagship SUV introduces a new X-Pro model built for adventures in the wild, and Kia will take things to new heights through an in-show video montage highlighting the new Telluride. “The Kia Telluride took the Kia brand to new heights both literally and figuratively and now we’re showcasing just how rugged, capable and refined the new Telluride X-Pro is and how far off the beaten path it is ready to go,” said Russell Wager, vice president, marketing, Kia America. “Telluride is Kia’s most capable SUV ever and we wanted to show how it can adapt to a variety of situations, no matter what ‘genre’ of lifestyle people lead. Kia is proud to return as the Official Automotive Sponsor of the Television Academy and the 74 th EMMY Awards for the third consecutive year and we have created video vignettes that play off the various award categories and celebrated television genres to highlight the versatility of Telluride with our 60-second spot displaying the SUV’s rugged capabilities.” During the live broadcast of “The 74 TH PRIMETIME EMMYS” airing Monday, September 12 th (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/5:00-8:00 PM, live PT) on NBC, and available to stream live on Peacock for the first time – Kia will debut a 60-second spot, “ Clouds.” Created by David & Goliath, Kia’s creative agency of record and filmed on the Imogene Pass near Telluride, Colorado at an elevation of 13,114 feet, the spot follows a couple as they drive a 2023 Kia Telluride X-Pro  along a winding path which takes them higher and higher up the side of a desolate mountain. The Telluride comes to a clearing near the mountain’s summit and slowly rolls to a stop before a three-story painter’s scaffold where two painters in white jumpsuits on the top landing are expertly yielding long-handled rollers and casually painting the sky itself. The painters look down at the Telluride and then at each other with curious and bemused looks on their faces as the driver leans forward and states, “Huh! I think we went too high!” “Kia is a brand that is reaching new heights and much of that is thanks to the Telluride SUV,” continued Wager. “We wanted to highlight just how high the Telluride can take those that drive it, and also show how high the Kia brand is aiming because there’s no limit to how high this brand can – and will – go.” In addition to the 60-second spot, Telluride X-Pro will be featured as part of a unique in-show integration covering a variety of acting/television genres to highlight how one scene with the same dialogue and actors can be construed differently based on the approach. The 1:45 piece was created by Creative Partnerships @ NBCU and will cover the comedy, drama, action thriller, and reality categories with the dialogue in each scene – and the presence of a Kia Telluride X-Pro SUV remaining the same. The only thing that changes in each is how the scenario plays out based on the specific genre and the actors’ approach to the situation. Three years after bursting onto the scene as one of the most in-demand and award-winning three-row eight-passenger SUVs in the U.S., the Kia Telluride returns for 2023 with an array of enhancements that build upon the success of the original. The Telluride has not only attracted over 75 percent of its buyers as new to the Kia family, but because of high customer satisfaction, Telluride owners have the most brand loyalty of any midsize SUV when returning to market for another vehicle. Big, capable, and powerful, the Telluride is as ready as ever for adventures of all kinds, from family road trips across the country to off-road excursions bound by few limits. About Kia America: Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of over 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America. Press Release Information Accuracy Disclaimer: Information posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.

The experts at Classic Body Shop want to share their wealth of knowledge with you all on one of the most vital parts of your vehicle when it comes to safety and stability: The tires!  While it may seem like a “no-brainer” that tires are in need of maintenance, we’re going to share a little more detail on why we should all pay a little closer attention to the health of our tires beyond the obvious.  Let’s take a look at how a tire is constructed, what the elements do, and why keeping an eye on these things is tantamount to safe driving. The tire has four very important functions for your vehicle: supporting the weight, changing and maintaining the direction of your driving, providing traction and braking, and absorbing road shocks.  Each element that composes the tire’s structure and frame is imperative to safe driving and functioning on the roadway. Carcass: This is the load-bearing framework which forms the body of the tire, made of thin textile fibers bonded into rubber.  It contains the inflation pressure and aids in supporting the load and absorbing impact, and helps it resist pressure. Tread: The tread,  sometimes also known as a “track”, is the rubber on the circumference of a tire that contacts the road surface.  Modern tires have an average tread depth of 8 to 9 millimeters (10/32nds to 11/32nds of an inch).  Good read depth should be 6/32nds of an inch or deeperWhen a tire has a tread depth below 1.6 millimeters it loses its grip, and impairs your vehicle control, stability, and braking performance. Shoulder: The shoulder on each tread is designed to protect the belt and carcass of the tire, and is where the tread and sidewall of the tire meet.. Belt: The Belt is a reinforcement layer extending to the outer circumference of the carcass under the tread, and improves the stiffness of the tread area.  It is made of rubber-coated layers of steel, fiberglass, rayon and other materials which provide puncture resistance, and also help the treads maintain contact with the road surface. Bead: The bead area supports the extremities of the carcass on each side of the tire, and is the edge of the tire that sits on the wheel itself. Bead Filler: This reinforcement rubber compound has a triangular cross-section, and is used to increase the stiffness of the bead and extends up into the sidewall area. It helps create a sea which holds air inside the tire. Bead Wire: A ring-shaped reinforcement material that is made by bundling together several high-carbon steel wires coated with red copper or bronze.  It has good flexibility and high strength, which is why it provides the framework for the tire structure. Inner Liner: The inner liner is a thin, air-tight layer of special rubber that keeps the air inside your tire and maintains the tire pressure, promoting good fuel economy. Side Wall: The sidewall is the smooth, vertical area on the tire between the tread and the bead, and provides lateral stability and support. It can be seen when you look at the tire from the side after its mounted on the vehicle. Rim: The tire wraps around the rim, which is the skeletal structure of the wheel assembly.  The rim provides structure and form, allowing the tire to wrap around it and fill with air. Now that you’re an expert on the anatomy of a tire, let’s go through some of the things you should know about maintaining, repairing, and replacing a tire. You should check your tire pressure monthly, or whenever the temperature changes with a difference of 10º  higher or lower, and inflate to the specifications listed in your manual or on the inside of the door panel. Check your tire’s tread depth each time you check the pressure, and replace the tire if it is worn down to 2/32nds to 4/32nds of an inch.  You can insert a penny into the tread groove with President Lincon’s head upside down.  If you are able to se the top of Lincoln’s head, you need to replace the tires.  Alternatively, if your tire treads are extremely low, you may notice your tire’s “treadwear indicators, which are raised sections between the tire’s treads; if you can see these replace them immediately. Examine the treads and sidewalls for any cuts, cracks, scrapes, punctures, bulges, bumps, or cracks.  Take a good look to make sure there are no nails, screws, or other foreign objects lodged between them.  If you spot any damage or wear-and-tear, you should bring your car in for a patch by a trusted service employee or a full replacement. Make sure to have your tires rotated with each routine service appointment such as an oil change or alignment.  This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and safely, reducing the chance of flats due to overuse or extreme wear. Check with your mechanic or trusted tire installation technician to find the best tires that match your vehicle’s recommended size/type, your driving style and average mileage, local/seasonal weather hazards, and your budget. Most tires typically last around 50,000 miles, which is about 3 to 5 years average for the typical driver, but this does vary depending on your driving habits, where you live, and where you drive most. Drivers who frequently use unpaved roadways, go off-roading, and those who are “lead-foot drivers” may need to replace them more frequently than average.  Check with your trusted mechanic or local tire specialist to assess your needs. Curious to learn more? Checkout these great videos:

Wondering when you should bring your car to the body shop?  We’re here to help shine a light on some of the reasons you should take your car in for repair and service, and what major items a body shop sees the most. The average auto repair shop will fix engine components, mechanical and technical issues, and restore worn or broken parts from daily use.  The automotive mechanic can diagnose technical problems with your vehicle, monitor fluid levels/lubrication, and all manner of things in regards to operation and running.  You’ll see a mechanic frequently to perform regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly. An autobody shop can restore vital elements of the physical structure such as the frame, door, window, bumper, and other parts that aren’t involved in the mechanical function.  Auto Body technicians specialize in restoring, refinishing and replacing the structural components to match original factory specifications.  Visits to a body shop are usually less frequent than a need for regular mechanic maintenance appointments. What are the major reasons to bring your car to an auto body shop? If your car has been hit by debris from the road, the body shop can repair the dings, dents, and damage from daily driving: cracks and stars in windshield, refuse falling from trucks, knicks and scratches from roadway debris. If your car has been side swiped on the street and left with cosmetic damage or technical damage from scrapes, bangs, broken mirrors, and other issues from mild collisions If your car has been left to the elements and mercy of mother nature: fallen tree limbs, broken branches, hailstorms, icicles and snowdrifts, water damage. What does the auto body shop repair regularly? Removing dings and dents in the sheet metal and straightening them out Replacing bumpers, body panels, doors, etc. Windshield repair or replacement General restoration following an accident or collision Repairing paint, repainting clear-coat, and restoring factory match paint colors Frame damage repairs to prevent structural issues At Classic Auto Body & Service Center in Waukegan, we do it all!  We’re here to make your experience as easy and stress free as possible.  We have an on-site car rental facility, 24-hour towing service on request, and an easy process for requesting work estimates and scheduling appointments for repair!  Just give us a call and we’ll get you back on the road in no time at all.

Several Kia Models Recognized as Top Performers in Their Respective Segments Kia earned first-place and top-ranked honors in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings for the second half of 2022 Nine different Kia models across various categories were recognized, including the award-winning 2022 EV6 and 2023 Telluride, along with several other electrified vehicles MotorTrend updates Ultimate Car Rankings list twice a year; award criteria based on over 70 years of testing expertise as well as scores in safety, value and more IRVINE, CA, September 2, 2022 – Nine Kia models were recognized in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings for the second half of 2022. More than half of the podium winners are electrified vehicles, including the crowd favorite 2022 EV6, which took the top spot in the Electric SUV category. "With so many of Kia's podium award winners hybrids or EVs, electrified vehicles are clearly becoming a strong suit for the brand,” said Buyer’s Guide Director Zach Gale. “From the superb Sportage Hybrid to the sporty EV6, Kia has made its presence felt in MotorTrend's Ultimate Car Rankings." 2023 Telluride The 2023 Telluride, 2022 Rio Sedan, and Rio Hatchback, came in first place in the 3-row SUV, subcompact sedan, and subcompact hatchback segments, respectively. Bolstering Kia’s stable of electrified vehicles, the 2022 Niro 1, Sportage Hybrid and Sorento Hybrid took second place in the Compact Hybrid Hatch, Compact Hybrid SUV, and 3-Row Hybrid SUV segments, respectively. 2022 Rio 5-Door “We are honored so many of our vehicles have been recognized, especially the EV6, which continues to reaffirm its leadership status among an impressive field of electrified competitors,” said Steve Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. “While these rankings reinforce our advancement in electrification thus far, we’ll only become more formidable as our ‘Plan S’ strategy continues to unfold.” MotorTrend's Ultimate Car Rankings launched in 2020 to help the average car buyer better understand their options. Using its long-running Car, Truck and SUV of the Year award programs as a foundation, the ranking system evaluates how a car drives, long-term value, safety, efficiency, driving range, technology, and more. For more details on MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings, visit https://www.motortrend.com/cars/

We’re all recovering from a very busy holiday weekend, so we thought we’d keep things a little lowkey when it comes to blog updates.  After the transition to work week vibes, we figured it would be fun to kick back and relax with a little YouTube video fun!  Check out our roundup of recent and interesting uploads to some of our favorite channels. We love seeing all the ways that folks customize their cars and really make their mark on the automotive world. Check out these interesting vehicles and cool collectible cars in this Automotive Meet Recap from Ed’s Auto Reviews on Youtube. Who doesn’t love a good rags to riches story? Well, this wild van has had quite the ride from rags to riches to rags to abandonment and finally restored to its former glory.  Check out this super fun video from our fave channel, Tavarish! Donut Media has arguably one of the most fun channels in the Automotive YouTubesphere. The crew is testing “Shark Tank” Car Products and giving you a full rundown.  Watch the pitch, watch the test, and decide for yourself!  Check it out. If you’re not subscribed to Rich Rebuilds, what are you waiting for?!  You’ll love the wacky and creative antics of Rich and his pals as their Electrified Garage takes on a slew of unique electric and alt-fuel rebuilt and reconfigured vehicles. In this episode, they’re trying out a solar powered car with 1000 miles of range! Who hasn’t watched a sci-fi movie and thought man that would be so cool to drive those futuristic cars? Well, thanks to experimental technology and conceptual engineering you may be closer to your dreams than you think!  Check out this concept car test driven by the Fully Charged Show on YouTube. This video from Marques Brownlee’s “Auto Focus” segment (and channel!) highlights the future of the car industry and the switch from fossil fuels to alt and electric cars. Check out his feedback and experience driving and enjoying the recently released Hyundai IONIQ. Looking for ways to connect with other likeminded folks in automotive industry? Car Meets are a fantastic way to connect with the community and make friends and network.  Check out this video from Gears and Gasoline about the positive aspects of Car Meets and car culture!

School is starting and many young drivers are taking their first steps to independence by driving to their classes and after school jobs, social events, sports games, etc.  If you’ve got multiple teens in your household, the car swap shuffle can get a bit tiring and hectic!  As a result, you may be considering buying an additional vehicle for the family, or for your young driver to have to themselves. Like any other big family decision relating to your teen exploring the world, this can be a little overwhelming if you’re new to the process!  That’s why we’re here to help break it down into several easy-to-digest steps for wading through the waters of purchasing a first car for your teens.  Check it out and let us know if there are any other helpful hints and tricks your family has used, and we may included it in an updated column in the future! A Helpful First Time Car Buying Guide for Teens & Their Families Decide on your budget. Many families will share cars with new drivers, or will pass down an older model as parents upgrade their ride, and as a result will want a budget friendly option. Shop around and test-drive multiple models, and see what type of vehicle that suits your needs is available at different price points. 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. 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. 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. Decide whether you’re going for a new or used ca r.  Most new drivers opt for budget-friendly used cars, but there are pros and cons to each. Weigh both as a family and decide which you prefer. 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. Used cars from 2013 and higher will fit most any budget and will have ideal safety features such as Anti-Lock Brakes, Traction control, and stability control. Newer cars within the last 3-5 years may also be equipped with Forward-Collision warning, Blind-spot monitoring, Heads-Up Displays, voice activated infotainment systems, and other driver-assist technologies. With the onset of COVID19 pandemic, both New and Used vehicle sales have been impacted, so plan ahead for potential wait times on specific models and features, and consider a flexible shopping plan with multiple selections in case your first choice is out of stock. Do thorough research on your options. 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. Think about what kind of car you’ll need: will it be comfortable for long distances, a vehicle with room for multiple passengers, lots of room for athletic equipment, etc.  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. Choose a vehicle that has a Good Crash-Test Rating via Kelley Blue Book verified sources (IIHS and NHTSA); these test for roof strength, head restraints and seats, front and side impact damage, roller damage, etc. 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. 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? When you and your new driver are ready to make your purchase, you can give us a ring at Classic Auto Group and we’ll gladly steer you in the right direction of your perfect first car!

Today’s blog is focused on one of the most vital parts of your vehicle’s system: the brakes!  Your brakes give you the ability to slow down, stop, and avoid serious harm or accidents. Let’s learn a little more about what to look for, how they work, and how to repair them! Your brakes should be serviced every 20,000-60,000 miles, inspected every six months during an alignment/rotation, and if you’re using your car for frequent long trips, lots of commuting, or even as a rideshare you may wish to have them checked or inspected more frequently. If you don’t get your brakes inspected and/or serviced regularly, this can cause the brake pads to wear down and grind metal-on-metal against the rotors.  This can lead to improperly stopping and higher risk of accidents and even death.  Your brakes should bring your vehicle to a complete stop with zero audible reaction. If you notice a screeching, squealing, or grinding sound when you press the brake pedal, it’s time to bring them in for a service.  This noise is caused by the “wear indicator” on your brake pads making contact with the rotor, indicating they are in dire need for replacement and repair. When it comes to selecting the right brake lines and brake pads for your vehicle, you should evaluate your driving frequency, distance, driving speed average, and location.  Your mechanic will help you select the best options for your make/model and driving habits. Check out this helpful video about how Brakes work from Donut Media on Youtube: We know that buying or servicing a vehicle isn’t a part of everyone’s daily life habits, so we’re here to help shine a light on important terms to know with today’s Classic Auto Group’s Automotive Terminology Decoder! Here are some helpful tips and terms to know when it comes to speaking about your vehicle’s brakes and parts: Brake fluid The fluid used in the hydraulic brake system. Brake lines, hoses & connections Tubes and their connections that carry brake fluid between the various components in a vehicles brake system. Brake linings High-friction, heat-resistant material that is attached to the brake shoes in a rear drum brake system. Brake master cylinder A device that stores brake fluid and hydraulically forces it through the brake lines to the brakes when the brake pedal is depressed. Brake pads High-friction material attached to a metal backing plate; these may be made of ceramic or a combination of metals and organic materials. Brake pedal A device used to control a vehicles brakes. Brake pedal spring A spring attached to the pedal assembly that provides some resistance during pedal depression and also assists in returning the pedal to an upright position. 👇️Let us know in the comments on our social media what other helpful terms and tips you'd like to learn on our next Automotive Terminology post! 👇️

Welcome to another edition of our Car Care Service Tips blog!  We’re here to help you maintain our vehicle between your regularly scheduled maintenance appointments at our service center and auto body shop.  Check out these summer essential service points before you head out on your next long drive or day trip. Check Tire Air Pressure and Rotate Tires After several day-trips or even a lengthy drive to your vacation destination, your car tires are going to have seen their fair share of wear-and-tear.  Check the tread depth for signs of wear or uneven tread; replace or patch any damaged tires.  Check the tire pressure before you depart on your next adventure, and especially with any 10 degree temperature change outside. Inflate them to the recommended PSI from the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure you bring your car in for a wheel alignment check and have the tires rotated to ensure even wear. Top off Fluids While it’s important to keep your car’s fluids in check on the regular and with each seasonal maintenance, it’s imperative that during the summer months you especially keep an eye on your Coolant and motor oil levels. An increase in summer travel along with high-heat can mean these fluids are depleted quicker than average, and the last thing you want is to be stranded on the highway with a seized engine.  Make sure that you have Antifreeze/Coolant topped off as well as the appropriate oil before you leave on a long trip. Change Oil and filter Each vehicle make/model will differ in mileage requirements for oil changes, but most are between 3,000 and 6,000 miles between an oil change service.  Be sure that you bring your car in at the appropriate mileage markers especially if you’ve been making frequent drives or a long journey.  It will ensure your vehicle runs more efficiently in hot weather, reducing the chance of a seized engine or fuel inefficiency. Clean and/or replace air filter Summer heat means running the AC frequently, and that can lead to a need to replace your air filter in just one or two months as opposed to the usual 3.  Make sure you’re regularly checking the filter and cleaning it as needed, or replacing it earlier if you’ve been doing a lot of driving this summer.  It will ensure that your AC runs properly and can consistently cool your vehicle. Park your car in the shade Finding the shadiest spot in the lot during summer has quite a lot of benefits for your vehicle.  The most obvious benefit of a shady spot is keeping the interior cool, making it more comfortable for you to drive later and preventing damage to the car’s leather or fabric surfaces.  If you can’t find a shady spot, you can add a window shade or a sunshield to the windshield and prevent UV light from warming your car as quickly.  Shaded parking over the long term can also help protect the longevity of your car’s paint and protective clear coat, which can be damaged over time by long exposure to direct sunlight.  Using a fabric car cover for prolonged storage or lengthy parking times such as a few days can help keep paint safe. Is there a topic you wish to see covered in depth on a future service post update? Let us know in the comments on our social media!

Check out our picks for great gearhead content on YouTube! In case you haven’t noticed, we really really love cars!  In fact, when we’re not here on the sales floor or in the auto group office, you’ll find many of us out on the road or in our garages working on our own cars.  But even the most enthusiastic Gearhead today’s post comes in.  We’ve rounded up our picks for some of our favorite channels on YouTube for car enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you love to be hands-on under the hood and live the DIY lifestyle, or you prefer the adrenaline rush of track day, there’s something for everyone on today’s blog.  Check out these Car Vloggers and feel free to suggest your fave in the comments and we may feature your picks on our next YouTuber Roundup #1 Donut Media This channel’s content is educational, extensive, vastly interesting, and cleverly presented with a sense of cheeky humor.  Donut Media is the channel for those who want to “nerd out” about cars including fun facts, Top 10 lists, product comparison videos, car news, and so much more. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a more lighthearted approach to automotive topics and education. The team at Donut clearly love what they do, and no matter if you love new cars, old cars, or something in between - Donut Media has a video for you! #2 Mighty Car Mods This charming dynamic duo of Aussie gearheads, Marty and Moog, hves some of the most entertaining content from the other side of the globe.  From beaters to brand new cars, they do it all on their own, always adding their own personal stamp and spin to their projects.  Not only do they modify and mend their favourite cars for racing and daily driving, but they also make movies and music.  What’s not to love about a pair of best friends bonding over what they love? We could all use a little more of their jovial personalities and uplifting attitudes! #3 Engineering Explained Have you ever wondered where combustion engines will be in 10 years?  Curious about the chemical reaction that takes place under the hood of your car?  Want to know how each part of the engine fits together and why it was designed that way? Engineering Explained sets out to break down the most basic question: “How does it all work?” Thanks to Engineering Explained, car enthusiasts of any level will find even the toughest topics broken down into easy to understand tidbits.  Jason Fenske presents his knowledge in a straightforward, easily-digestible way so that you can gain a little insight into how your fave cars work and run, and become a better car owner in the process. #4 Tavarish Tavarish is knowledgeable, opinionated, a big personality, and his personal car collection is a perfect match to his vibe.  You’ll find a wide variety of content on his channel, including some super fun crossover content and challenges with his fellow YouTube Vlogger pals!  This Russian-born and New Jersey-raised car enthusiast has a delightful collection of videos on modifying and repairing cars.  His playlist of 60-Second reviews is perfect for those with short attention spans!  Get the scoop on the latest and greatest cars out there. Looking for inspiration on designing your garage? Check out his dream garage build where he takes you from start to finish in revamping it to fit his needs!  Watch as he buys cars off of Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other local outlets and whips them into shape as the “whip of his dreams.” #5 The Hoonigans Known by collectors, drivers, and enthusiasts alike - the Hoonigan channel has really carved out a name for themselves in the automotive industry.  This team lives for track day, and consistently impress again and again with their tricks, stuns, and Don’t try this at home, folks; many of the stunts and adventures The Hoonigans partake in are dangerous to the inexperienced driver! Stay safe at home and boost your adrenaline by watching from your phone, tablet, or laptop. #6 Gears & Gasoline With more than 1 million subscribers on YouTube, this channel is perfect for vehicle enthusiasts of all kinds.  This passionate team of vloggers has dedicated their channel to chronicling their car modifications, test drives, track days, and even road trip recaps.  With cars ranging from budget friendly options to high end sports cars, there’s plenty to keep you intrigued and subscribed to this channel! Who doesn’t love a little Sunday Drive ASMR? Count us in, that’s for sure!