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Let’s get rid of that nasty springtime pollen and winter build-up with the ultimate guide on washing your car like the pros. By the time you’re done with our blog post, you’ll have the expert tips and tricks to wash and detail your car with the best of ‘em.   You’ll find a helpful task list for the step by step process of cleaning your vehicle from the inside out.  Let’s work together to get your daily driver road trip ready before the warm weather hits! more Cleaning the Interior: First, clean the interior surfaces of your car and wipe down all common surface areas which you and/or your passengers may come into contact with by using a vehicle interior safe antibacterial wipe, or a vehicle safe antibacterial spray cleaner and microfiber cloths.  Make sure you thoroughly clean the following heavily touched surfaces. Next, remove the interior car mats and clean them outside of your vehicle.  Be sure to vacuum and sanitize.  Repeat the same process for any organizers, baskets, or small trash receptacles inside the vehicle.  Follow by removing any child or pet friendly seat covers, making sure to shake out debris and give them a thorough vacuuming outside the vehicle. After, apply a vehicle upholstery cleaner to the seats to help remove mold and mildew, pet dander, dust/dirt and other allergens, as well as any other grit and grime from your travels.  Let it sit according to directions (leather, “vegan leather”, and fabric will all have different requirements.)  If you have leather upholstery, now is also a great time to apply a leather protectant and conditioner to moisturize and preserve the fabric.  Typical household cleansers or disinfectants may cause discoloration to hard surfaces, damage to fabrics, or deteriorate coverings.  Remember to select cleansers and surfactants that are made for your specific interior coverings and fabrics so as not to cause damage. Allow all to air dry thoroughly. If you utilize a portable HEPA filter in your vehicle, this is the time to replace old filters or clean them.  If you’ve not done so recently, make sure to also vacuum the air filter for your car’s HVAC system to improve performance. Now it’s time to reinstall the floor mats, seat covers and car seats, and any other accessories you removed. For a finishing touch, you may want to spray the interior with an automotive fabric refresher, or add an air freshener or place scented air vent clips around the vehicle. Cleaning the Exterior: First, ensure that your vehicle is parked in a shady spot to reduce evaporation of cleaning solution and water, and help any top coats or waxes properly cure. We’ll be utilizing the “two bucket” method for cleaning. Gather vehicle-friendly items such as microfiber washing mitts, microfiber cleansing cloths, and vehicle specific cleansers (avoid using dish soaps and other household cleaners.)  Place these items on an easily accessible and clean, dry surface so they don’t lie on the ground during the washing process and pick up more dirt. You’ll need two large buckets: one will be filled with water and a vehicle safe cleaning solution, the second will be filled with clean water to be utilized for washing your cleaning mitt or microfiber pad.  This method ensures that dirt and debris do not contaminate the cleaning solution, and thus will not be reintroduced to the vehicle’s paint surfaces.  If the rinse bucket starts getting too dirty, dump and replace the water; we recommend doing this between each segment of your vehicle (top, windows, mid-section, bottom and wheels, etc)  This will help you to maintain your vehicle’s paint coat with less scratches and swirls. Then, give the vehicle a complete spray starting from top to middle to bottom as a quick rinse down. Clean the vehicle’s wheels with a specialized tire soap to ensure you’re removing the most dirt and grime. Make sure to thoroughly scrub the wheel wells, tires, and any accessories or wheel covers. Rinse thoroughly!  If you notice any overspray has reached the rest of your vehicle, give that a quick rinse before moving on to the next step. You want to wash the rest of your vehicle from the top down, as the bottom is always the dirtiest! We don’t want to transfer that gross dirt and buildup to the rest of the vehicle.  You’ll want to thoroughly suds up the roof and top components of your vehicle (roof rack, sun roof/moon roof, etc), and work your way down with gentle rubbing motions. Let the solution thoroughly penetrate dirt and buildup as per the directions on the bottle. Rinse the vehicle thoroughly and perform a quick visual inspection to ensure you were able to remove any buildup. Re-clean the areas you may have missed with the above methods and rinse again. Walk around and inspect your vehicle for any signs of rust, scratches, or dents. You can fill in minor cosmetic blemishes with vehicle-match paint that comes in options like pens for small areas and small paint cups for larger patches. When cleaning the glass and mirrors of your vehicle, make sure you choose a specialty car glass cleaner to avoid any reduction in visibility due to residue or build up. Consider adding a hydrophobic coating to your vehicle’s windows and windshields as well for improved visibility during inclement weather. Once the vehicle has been cleaned, rinsed, inspected, and paint repairs allowed to dry, it’s time to add a protective wax or seal of your choice; once that has cured, you’ll be ready to hit the road!

Looking for some road trip inspiration? These summer festivals and fairs will certainly get you started!  Book your next road trip and summer vacation plans around these hot destinations. Enjoy live farm animal demonstrations, high stakes competitions and races, live music and curated artworks, bespoke artisanal goods, trendy food vendors, carnival rides, and more. And when you’re done, hit the road and explore the surrounding areas such as nearby national parks, stunning mountain and lakeside scenery, historic sites and museums, and then some.  We’re sure that you’ll find something exciting to tickle your fancy and satisfy your sense of adventure. more The 52nd Annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival in Telluride Colorado will be taking place from June 19th through June 22nd. Headliners for this year’s festival include Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit; Alison Krauss and Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas; Gillian Welch & David Rawlings; Sam Bush Band and so many more! We’ve already noted Telluride on one of our recent vacation destination guides as a top notch Summer spot, so add this festival to your list, too.  This iconic festival is a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty of Telluride and enjoy the scenery of the San Juan Mountains while you listen to some uplifting music. Tent, Vehicle, and RV camping are available for the festival for a fee. The Sturgis Motorcycle Festival/Rally in Sturgis, SD is a must-see event for motorcycle enthusiasts. Drawing a crowd from around the country, many attendees ride their bikes all the way to the festival to celebrate and showcase.  You’ll also have the pleasure of enjoying local bands and special guests sharing live musical performances. In addition you’ll also get a chance to enjoy races, competitions, bike showcases, check out the latest trends in design and equipment, and more. Plus, the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum offers an opportunity to learn the history of motorcycles and the festival itself, which dates back to the 1930s.  Join in some of the rally’s group rides, and take a motorcycle tour of iconic scenic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore! The 2025 rally will take place from August 1st through August 10th for the 85th annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Summerfest Music Festival hits Milwaukee, Wisconsin this year from June 19th-21st, June 26th through 28th, and July 3rd through 5th. This lakeside location boasts an impressive lineup of musicians across multiple genres and has previously broken records as the World’s Largest Music Festival, featuring more than 800 acts across 11 stages. This year’s headliners include Def Leppard, Tesla, Hozier, James Taylor, The Killers, Megan Thee Stallion, Benson Boone, Third Eye Blind, Lindsey Stirling, 311, and so many more! This fest takes place over three consecutive weekends to ring in the summer in full force!  Camping is not allowed on Summerfest grounds, but you can check out the Wisconsin State Fair RV Park or any of the nearby hotels. Utah’s Shakespeare Festival is a community wide event in Cedar City, Utah, spanning from June through October. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourselves in the world of Shakespeare at the recreation of the Globe Theater known as Engelstad Shakespeare Theater – an open-air, immersive experience that takes theatergoers all the way back to the Elizabethan era!  Learn more about Shakespeare’s works, the art of theater, history of theater and playwriting, and more through a series of seminars, Q&As, discussion groups, and more.  Grab tickets to your favorite Shakespeare performances rotating throughout the season.  While you’re there, you can take a few detour days and explore Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park for some camping and trail hikes! The Ohio State Fair runs from July 23rd through August 3rd and has been a local community fixture since 1850. Visitors will be immersed in family-friendly activities such as games, interactive educational displays, interactive live roving performers, kids fishing and wildlife demos, exotic animals and free petting zoo, youth agricultural and livestock competitions, and more. There will be horse shows, fine arts to shop and browse, sporting competitions, delicious food vendors, rides, games, and plenty of excitement.  The fair offers a series of free musical events as well as ticketed options with headliners such as Foreigner, Morris Day and the Time, T-Pain, Trace Adkins, and more! The Wisconsin State Fair opens July 31st and runs through August 10th. The Main Stage event will be packed with an incredible lineup of national touring headliners from hip-hop to country to pop to classic rock, and even contemporary christian music, acts such as Ne-Yo, Boyz II Men, Darius Rucker with Uncle Kracker, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and more will be appearing. Visitors can enjoy fair competitions with live animal demonstrations, Junior Livestock events, art exhibits and curated competitions, rabbit hopping, dog sports, and more! The Indiana State Fair 2025 is happening from August 1st through August 17th for two weeks of jampacked family friendly fun! This year’s event will be themed “The Soundtrack of Summer” presented by Get Prepared Indiana.  Enjoy the “Vinyl Revival: Art of Music Exhibit” celebrating the community's connection to music and visual arts with iconic album covers; you can also enjoy a pop-up record store with hand-painted displays!  There will be horse racing, live music at Pioneer Village, rides and games on the Midway, food trucks and local food vendors, live animals and demonstrations, games and activities for families, and much more. The Iowa State Fair is proud to be the largest event in the whole state of Iowa, and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expos in the US! The event draws a crowd of more than one million people from all over the globe.  Camping is allowed on state fair grounds, so you can register your RV and get the maximum excitement out of the State Fair festival.  Enjoy competitive events and agricultural demonstrations, free music and entertainment, games and rides and family-friendly excitement, and a major headlining events venue with live performances by Forrest Frank, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Pitbull, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rascal Flatts, T-Pain, and more. Iowa State fair rolls into town August 7th through the 17th.

Seeking some solace from the busy city life?  Tired of the rat race of punching time clocks? Need a break from your 9 to 5 without the long wait times at airlines? We’ve got you covered.  You can reach each of these destinations with a reasonable and comfortable drive, making it a great start to the summer road trip list!  We’re bringing you beaches, trails, forests, adventure, fun and plenty of sun right here in the middle of the good ol’ US of A.  Forget about flight delays and REAL ID waitlines, you can hop in your new car from Classic right here in Waukegan, and be on the road to excitement, fun, and off to four unexpectedly exciting Memorial Day Weekend Getaways! more Starting off our list is South Padre Island off the southern portion of Texas. You’ll enjoy 34 miles of coastline and seemingly neverending sunshine with crystal clear gulf water!  Known as the Sandcastle Capital of the World, you’ll have a truly memorable experience as you trek down the “Sandcastle Trail” – a beautiful collection of at least 30 sand sculptures created by local and global professional sculptures!  The spectacular South Padre Island Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary takes birdwatching and nature appreciation to a whole new level; you and your family will love exploring the wildlife and ecosystems of the Rio Grande Valley and celebrating the unique creatures that inhabit this area through hands-on learning. The Port Isabel Lighthouse Historic Site is the sole remaining coast lighthouse in Texas open to the public, offering sweeping panoramic views of the coastline.  South Padre Island Adventure Park offers a plethora of family-friendly activities including everything from horseback riding along the shores to zip lining, parasailing, and more.  The Port Isabel Historical Museum offers a look into the history of the Mexican-American War through exhibits and historic artifacts, and is emblazoned with a custom painted fish mural from 1906.  Book a private tour from the numerous local businesses and enjoy some parasailing, dolphin watching, nature trail walks, and more! Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor is just outside of Cleveland, Ohio. This beautiful beach is a surprisingly beautiful getaway just outside the city limits with a large shoreline and surprisingly warm water of Lake Erie.  The beach is vast and perfect for sandcombing as you search for brilliant sea glass, water-tumbled stones, and other shoreline treasures.  This public beach attracts nearly two million visitors each year, and is perfect for swimming, picnicking, sandcastle making, fishing, nature watching, birding, and more.  Of course, when you’re done with your beach day you can spend the rest of your MDW exploring nearby Cedar Point, Cleveland Aquarium, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Great Lakes Science Center, or any of the many local Farmer’s Markets for some fresh, locally made and locally grown food. North Beach in Racine offers an immense 50 acres of west-coast style beach day fun along Lake Michigan! Enjoy Zumba on the beach, live music all summer long, sand volleyball, and the best of the west coast without the long flight.  It’s the ultimate summer oasis, perfect for a Memorial Day Getaway.  This is another great family-friendly location with easy waters to navigate, a “Kids Cove” and playground area, and concessions bar with food and drinks.  Plus, the area is the state’s first “Certified Blue Wave Clean Beach” – promising nothing but sparkling sand beaches and a pristine boardwalk for your enjoyment.  Life guards are on duty in June through August, so swim at your own risk before season opener!  Other attractions to enjoy nearby include the Racine Zoo, the Racine HarborMarket (now known as “HayMarket”), “Hot Summer Nights” concert series in the park, and First Friday fun will resume starting this month (May). Telluride is an unexpected addition to the list, but we promise it’s just as fun in the “offseason” as it is during the Colorado winters. The town offers plenty of outdoor fun such as tubing, bungee trampolines, outdoor hiking, mountain biking, and Mountain Village Gondola rides.  If you’re looking for the best fishing destinations and waterside fun, you’ll find it right there in the rocky mountains in any of the plentiful lakes, ponds, and alpine creeks by way of kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, boating, and swimming. The summer months are known in the area as “festival season”; in May you can enjoy the Telluride MountainFilm Festival, followed by the Hot Air Balloon festival in June.  You’ll also get a firsthand look at the beautiful history of the area at the Telluride Historical Museum or one of the local history walking tours!

If you’re a gearhead looking to plan the ultimate road trip, have we got a Summer Lineup for you!  Today’s blog is all about top tier automotive centric shows across the US for summer.  From East Coast to West Coast and in between, we’ve wrangled up the best vehicle events you can ever dream of.  From classic cars to hot rods, from custom mods to vintage vehicles, we know you’ll find something to satisfy your automotive enthusiast needs.  So, grab your best buds and hop on in your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road! more Carlisle Ford Nationals in Carlile, PA has called the Carlisle Fairgrounds home since the mid–90s.  This Ford brand centric event brings out enthusiasts from all over the world each year.  Check out the vast collection of Ford Vehicles on display including classics and modern day cars.  Attendees will have a chance to attend swap meets for car parts with fellow gearheads; engage in performance tests of the latest and greatest; check out a product showcase from Ford; attend auctions for special parts and memorabilia.  Visitors will love exploring all of the vehicles from Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, and Euro Ford lines.  You’ll also find the latest and greatest in car parts on the Manufacturer's Midway!  Happening June 6th through 7th, with kids 12 and under attending for free. Goodguys Columbus Nationals is one of the Midwest’s premier car events, featuring more than 6,500 American-Made or American-Powered vehicles.  This event is a surefire banger, with high turnouts expected year after year as enthusiasts flock to Ohio to view impressive displays of Classic Americana vehicles such as muscle cars, hot rods, custom cars, and more.  Enjoy a wide array of automotive events and competitions including Drag Race events and Autocross!  The 27th Summit Racing Nationals presented by PPG is happening July 11th through July 13th. Other automotive events hosted by GoodGuys include: 2nd Grundy Insurance Mid-Atlantic Nationals Presented by R&M Performance May 30th and 31st in Dover, DE; 34th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals from July 4th through 6th in Des Moines IA; 37th Griot’s Garage Pacific Northwest Nationals in Puyallup, WA from July 25th through 27th; 38th West Coast Nationals in Pleasanton, CA from August 22nd through 24th Hot August Nights in Reno Nevada is a week long automotive festival and beloved local tradition!  The event is not just a celebration of classic cars, but also evokes feelings of nostalgia and leaning into rock ‘n’ roll culture.  In the running since 1986, this event features car cruises, drag race events, and live entertainment.  It’s the perfect travel destination for vintage hot rod and muscle car enthusiasts!  We can’t think of a better way to have fun than experiencing the nightly car cruises downtown through Reno on a hot summer night. This year’s event runs from August 1st through the 10th, with the grand finale closing ceremonies on the 10th. On August 3rd, attendees can enjoy the charitable event “Bonanza Casino’s Cruisin for the Cure” Car Show, and help fundraise for a good cause!  Plus, there are auctions, meet and greets, a swap meet, drag races, and competitive car showings all week long. Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Pebble Beach Automotive Week in California takes place in August on the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course.  The Concours d’Elegance takes place on Sunday August 17th starting at 10:30AM, and is the who’s who of ultra luxury vehicles and expensive collectible cars, and a must-see for anyone who is interested in high-end automotives.  Last year’s event saw 214 cars arriving from 16 countries and 29 states, each entering for a chance to win the Best of Show title. The Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance presented by Rolex is taking place on August 14th, featuring a route along 17-Mile Drive, Highway One to Big Sur, and back to Pebble Beach; the event starts preparations as early as 7AM and cars leave promptly at 9:30AM so arrive early to catch the cruise! Pebble Beach RetroAuto Event will take place from Thursday August 14th through 16th with the Concours Sunday event on August 17th; this gorgeous collection of curated exhibits features historic automotive memorabilia, rare collectibles, art, luxury items, and more. Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit, MI is the world’s largest one-day automotive event, during which more than 1 million people flock to view 50,000 classic cars.  Originating as a small fundraiser event in the mid-90s, it has now evolved into a massive appreciation event for classic car culture and the Detroit Automotive Scene.  Held each year along the iconic Woodward Avenue in Detroit, the event celebrates the rich automotive history of Detroit as well as iconic and classic American Muscle Cars. Enjoy a classic car cruise along Woodward Avenue and take in the sites with muscle cars, hot rods, vintage cars, and customs. There will be live music and entertainment, food and drink, and a big festival celebration!  This year’s event takes place on August 16th 2025.

Spring is in full swing and we’re gearing up for warm weather fun in the sun!  Enjoy a plethora of family friendly activities and date-night ideas as well as plenty of “back to nature” fun.  We’re sharing all that and more on this month’s edition of Classic’s Community Calendar of Events in Lake County Illinois for May 2025. First Fridays are back on Mainstreet in Libertyville. Head downtown on May 2nd from 10AM to 9PM for a chance to dine, shop, and support your local community!  Downtown shopowners and restaurants are offering special discounts for the occasion and parking is free. Residents 21+ can enjoy a “Dos De Mayo” party at the Patty Turner Center in Deerfield on Friday May 2nd from 6:30PM to 8PM.  Tickets are $35-$45 per person including appetizers, drinks, live music, salsa line dance, and more. more The thrilling Chicagoland Monster Truck Wars are barreling into town on Saturday May 3rd at 12PM and 6PM at the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake. The 13th Annual GLMV Extreme Block Party and Family Expo is happening on Saturday May rd from 10AM to 3PM at the DoubleTree Mundelein in Mundelein. Art in the Garden at Fox Lake’s Community Garden is taking place at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake on Saturday May 3rd from 12PM to 2PM. Grayslake Art Alliance’s Mayfest is taking place at the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum from 12PM to 4PM on Saturday May 3rd. The Spring Into Nature Family Festival at the Heller Nature Center is happening on May 10th in Highland Park. Prices are $24-$28 and include music on the lawn, a picnic, giant bubble making, and a walk in the woods among other family friendly fun.  Preregistration is preferred for this entirely outdoor event. Stop by the Marketplace Cafe on the May 17th Artwauk event for a special Charcuterie menu from 5Pm to 9PM on May 17th in Waukegen on Genesee Street. Long Grove Chocolate Fest will be taking over Historic Downtown Long Grove on May 16th, 17th, and 18th!  There will be live music, plenty of hands on activities for kids, food vendors, and of course plenty of chocolate! Lake County Food Truck Festival is rolling into the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake on Friday May 23rd from 12PM to 9PM.  Local and regional businesses will be sampling their wares and an immense array of cuisines to explore and try! Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor Marina starts its season on May 23rd and then returns on June 27th, July 25th, August 22nd, and September 26th from 5PM to 8PM at Siver Park. Shop locally made products and handmade goods, sample delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live music at Green Town on the Rocks. Waukegan’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony will be kicking off on Monday May 26th at N. Martin Luther King Jr Avenue followed by a commemoration at Veterans Plaza.  The parade begins promptly at 10:45AM so make sure you’re ready to go for best viewing! The Chicagoland Antique, Advertising, Slot Machine, and Juke Box Show will be coming to town on Friday May 30th and Saturday May 31st at the LAke County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake.

April is National Car Care Month! We’ve been helping our followers learn expert car care tips all month long. Today, we’re focusing on windshield safety and clear visibility. more A vehicle driving through a rainy mountain road with the windshield wipers in motion. Never leave chips or cracks unrepaired. If the glass is not repaired or replaced soon, even small damage can quickly grow to a large spiderwebbed split which may cause obstacles to the driver’s vision and lead to accidents. Additionally, these small stars or chips may spread quickly in hotter or cold temperatures, or may even shatter if you’re driving over difficult terrain or rough roadways and hit a bump or pothole.  Call your roadside assistance or vehicle insurance company to see if these repairs or replacements are covered; some companies offer free or subsidized replacements on specific plans. Alternatively, you can call your local mechanic or service center to ask about glass repair or replacement services. Ensuring you have clear and efficient visibility on the road during inclement weather is paramount to safety!  Replace your windshield wipers regularly with quality blades if you notice any streaking or smears. If you’re not sure what type of wipers you need, you can check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for guidelines on length and size. Be sure to top off your wiper fluid regularly, and use good quality cleaning products. You’ll want to select something that is seasonally appropriate, as some cleaners will freeze or be efficient at lower temperatures. Likewise, applying a hydrophobic coating such as Rain-X or similar will protect your glass from bugs, mud, rain, and ice more effectively than using just plain wiper fluid alone. When driving in inclement weather, remember to turn on your headlights if your windshield wipers are on!  Even if it’s just misting and foggy outside, headlights will significantly improve your visibility and make it easier for other drivers to spot you.  Remember to also ventilate your vehicle, as humidity can cause fogging of windows and windshields – the defroster will clear up the humidity quickly, as well as opening a window a smidge.

Let the experts here at Classic guide you on your journey to selecting the perfect car for your lifestyle and budget.  We’re here to help you navigate the ins-and-outs of selecting a car, by highlighting three easy talking points for families and individuals to jumpstart your shopping. When you’re ready to buy, just head on into our dealerships and our trusted, experienced sales staff will have you behind the wheel of the safest, budget friendly vehicle in no time! more 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. Check your credit and know in advance if you’ll need a co-signer; younger drivers generally need someone to cosign with more established credit. The purchase price also has additional fees such as: title fees, a down payment requirement, initial insurance payments, and other potential upfront 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. 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. 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. Research average repair costs for the vehicles over the first few years as well as the lifetime of the vehicle. Make a shortlist of vehicles you’d like to look at (3 is a good starting point) and head to the dealership to see them in person. Call your local dealership and request to schedule an appointment for a test drive.  (Refer to our previous blog about maximizing your test drive experience to get the full experience!) Make a list of the pros and cons of each driving experience, and how it relates to your daily commute and activities. 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. Do you have a first-time car buying tip that helped your family find the right fit financially and practically? Do you have any tips or tricks that worked well for you that we can pass along to younger or teen drivers shopping for their first car? Let us know in the comments!

Today we’re sharing three amazing places in the midwest to live out your backcountry backpacking dreams!  If you’ve found yourself watching adventure documentaries and reading survivalist fiction, this is the perfect place to start your own exciting adventure!  You’ll find plenty of thrills, challenges, scenic views, and memorable experiences along the way as you check out these three magnificent natural areas.  From off-road hiking to sleeping under the stars in nothing but a hammock or lean-to, these camping and hiking destinations offer a unique experience of wilderness fun!  So gear up, grab your best hiking shoes, and pack up those maps because we’re about to hit the road making unforgettable memories of a lifetime. more Pictured Rocks Lakeshore in Michigan along North Country Scenic Trail offers nearly 100 miles of park trails, with 42 of them running adjacent to the shores of Lake Superior.  There are 13 designated backpacking campground areas along the trail, and some of them are very small, intimate locations, perfect for respite away from the 9 to 5 job; there is even one boat-in only site located at Grand Sable Lake but you’ll need to BYO boat to access it.  Be mindful that you will need a backcountry permit to camp and hike here, so book that in advance of your travels!  If you’re looking for unmatched scenic views, challenging hiking trails in sandy terrain, and a real “rough-it” style camping experience, this is the spot for you!  You’ll also want to bring a compass and a map, as most smartphones and cell phones will not work in the park, so plan accordingly with printed waterproof maps before coming!  Alternatively you can download the NPS Mobile App to download the park info over wifi before heading out to the trails.  This hike and backcountry trails are not pet friendly, so leave your furry friends at home. Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail in Kentucky is a whopping 343 miles long hiking trail chock full of challenging terrain and plenty of backcountry adventures!  The trail is a long-distance hike, so you’ll need plenty of outdoor experience, expert navigation skills, and a lof of endurance to make it to the end.  Trails here are generally well marked, but it’s recommended you still download an offline map or bring printed media and a compass. Camping is either in designated campground areas, or a minimum of 300 feet off the trail itself.  It’s important to note that if you opt for the long haul full thru-hike, you will not cross into “civilization” often during your route, so plan accordingly with supplies; you’ll only encounter 5 towns along the way: Moorehead, McKee, Livingston, London, and Stearns.  The trail crosses through areas such as Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge State Park, Cave Run Lake, and the Big South Fork Recreation Area. If long haul backpacking isn’t your style, there are plenty of 1 to 2 day and night trail routes available as well. Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin runs 1200 miles through the state following the path of historic geologic features carved by the Laurentide Ice Sheet over 12,000 years ago!  The trail is mostly off-road hiking and backpacking, but passes through several small towns along its winding route.  Portions of the trail pass through Kettle Moraine Forest and areas like Devils Lake State Park, and Interstate State Park.  Some regions allow camping just off site of the trail, while other portions allow camping in designated campsites or areas along the way;  be forewarned that campsite areas are often spaced far apart, so be sure to plan any multi-day hikes accordingly.  The trail does have areas open for hunting and fishing in designated spots.  Otherwise you’ll enjoy some truly spectacular nature walks, challenging hikes, birdwatching and wildlife spotting, and plenty of stunning stargazing.

Today on Classic’s Gearhead Guru Guide installment, we’re sharing some tips on what to consider when shopping around for good car insurance.  We know the task of weeding through all the policy details, coverage limits, and even different companies can seem daunting!  That’s why we’re here to help enlighten you, and take a little bit of the guess work and stress out of the process. After today’s blog, you’ll have a great foundation for making an informed decision on the best policy that’s right for your vehicle and your budget. more What do I watch out for when shopping for insurance? Does it really make a difference what company I go with? Budgeting for good, quality car insurance when purchasing a car can save you hundreds in costly repairs, and avoids time wasted from playing phone tag or chasing via email. When you choose a reputable insurance, you will have more flexibility in selecting your regular mechanic, or the option of having your car fixed by a professional partner shop. Beware of discounted insurance, as it usually results in less coverage than you need and major customer service hassles. The national companies might have slightly higher rates, but they are still competitive, reliable, and efficient. Stick with a national, reputable insurance company, and you’ll ensure that your claims are handled professionally and efficiently. How do I narrow down my choices? Check your local and state guidelines for required insurance coverages. Some regions and states may legally require specific coverage levels or policy types for residents, while others may have more flexibility in coverage. Get quotes from several different insurance companies before selecting your policy, and compare the benefits, perks, and financials of each. Consider shopping around for a new policy every few years to make sure you’re getting the best rates!  You may find better rates at a different insurance provider due to age, vehicle type, location, or even driving habit history. Make a list of your must-haves and additional coverage options that would benefit your driving style. Those who are on the road more often, or who may have significant travel for work, may benefit from additional perks such as Roadside Assistance or Rental Car Reimbursement plans.  Likewise, deselect these add-on options before starting your policy if they do not fit your lifestyle and driving needs; it will save you lots of money for features you’re not using. Explore your options for discounts for things like opting for installments versus single-pay and ask about discounts for good driving history. Some insurance companies offer discounts for single pay or quarterly installments, or additional savings breaks if you’ve set your premiums up to be paid automatically. Some companies offer a discounted rate for 0 accidents, and will offer reduced rates for longevity as a subscriber. If you’ve got renters or homeowners insurance, or other vehicle insurance such as boat or motorcycle, you may inquire of your provider about bundling your premiums. Many companies will offer significant savings when you select multiple policies options through their umbrella of coverage plans. What about types of coverage? Let’s take a look at the different types of coverage insurers offer, and which may be required policies for residents of specific states. Types of Coverage and Policies Liability Coverage - This type of coverage pays for both property damage you cause to someone else’s property, as well as any bodily injury or harm caused to others resulting from the accident. This may include hospital bills, medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage - This coverage protects you from damages due to the other vehicle/driver’s inadequate or lack of coverages. Some drivers operate vehicles without insurance or with less-than-adequate coverage, and this plan will cover many of those gaps. Personal Injury Protection - This type handles your medical/rehabilitation and hospital costs, any work/wage-loss costs, and funeral/burial expenses. This is sometimes referred to as no-fault insurance, as it covers expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Comprehensive and Collision - Comprehensive insurance provides coverage for accidents and events that are outside of your control, including things like weather, theft, or vandalism, etc but it does not cover hitting another vehicle or object, nor wear-and-tear. .  Collision coverage keeps you protected from collisions with another vehicle or object; some drivers choose to opt out of collision if the cost of premiums overshadow the estimated value of their vehicle. (Ex: if your vehicle is used or older and is worth $1500, but your premiums are $1800, you may not wish to carry collision coverage.)  These policies may be required by your lender if you’re leasing a vehicle or your car is on financing plans.

Today on Classic’s latest Gearhead Guru Guide installment, we’re breaking down the ins-and-outs of the Alignment process, and why it’s a vital part of regular service maintenance appointments. Learn when to perform a tire rotation, when to have your wheels balanced, and what parts of the vehicle will be inspected during an alignment appointment.  It’s all right here on today’s blog! more What should I be doing regularly to maintain proper alignment and wheel care? You should be having your tires rotated regularly to ensure even tread wear. In general, it’s recommended to rotate your tires with each oil change or at minimum every other oil change, which on average is about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles.  You’ll want to balance your wheels every 15,000 miles or so.Your driving style, driving habits, and road conditions all affect wear and tear on the tires, and by rotating you’re extending the life of your tires and ensuring even wear. During appointments, your mechanic will also inspect the condition of your tires and let you know if they notice uneven wear and tear, as this may be an alignment issue.  Your vehicle will occasionally need a realignment to ensure your tires and wheels are adjusted in the right direction to prevent excessive wear or damage.  A misaligned vehicle may have poor tire wear, improper handling, decreased fuel efficiency, and the vehicle may become harder to control thus increasing the risk of accidents. What types of alignments are there for vehicles? There are three regular types of alignments available - front-end alignment, thrust alignment, and four-wheel alignment.  Your vehicle’s suspension determines which kind of alignment your service technician will perform.  Let’s break it down for each type so you can better understand what your mechanic will be completing during your appointment. A front-end alignment is the most basic type of alignment, and makes adjustments to the front axle. A thrust alignment is a combination of a front-end alignment and a thrust alignment. It makes sure all four wheels are squared with one another and level. Four-Wheel alignments combine some parts of front-end and thrust alignment, along with making sure the rear axle is in the proper position.  This will typically apply to 4WD, AWD, and FWD vehicles which have adjustable rear suspension. What areas of the vehicle are adjusted during an alignment? Camber - This is the vertical angle (inward or outward) of the tires when examining the vehicle head on.  It’s common for most vehicles to have a slight negative camber, as this aids in stability. Caster - This is the forward or backward angle of the steering axis, and is viewed from the side profile of the vehicle. This helps your vehicle maintain a straight course of driving, and assists with the steering wheel returning to center after turning. Thrust - This is a measurement of comparison between the rear axle direction and the centerline of the vehicle.  It also helps examine the wheelbase and ensures the front and rear axles will be parallel to one another. Toe - This is the angle at which the tires turn in or out when the vehicle is viewed from above. Ensuring a proper toe is crucial to ensure even wear so you can get the max mileage out of the tires. Your mechanic may also check the steering components to ensure they are in good condition, as well as all of the suspension components. What Happens During an Alignment appointment at the service center? Your service technician or mechanic will take the vehicle for a short test drive to best assess what is going on with your vehicle.  Once they’ve diagnosed the issue, they’ll raise the car on a lift and check your tires as well as the suspension for any faults.  They will let you know what parts, if any, are broken or have intense wear-and-tear and need replacing, and once they’ve been swapped for new parts, they’ll begin with the alignment process. The alignment process begins with checking each tire pressure, and adjusting as needed to reach proper pressure (manufacturer recommendations.)  Following that, the vehicle will be connected to the alignment machine, and the mechanic will use a computer to adjust the suspension according to the manufacturer's guidelines. After the alignment process is complete, your vehicle will make sure the steering wheel is centered, and then take the vehicle out for a test drive to ensure the alignment process is complete. If any adjustments are needed, they’ll repeat the process until all is in alignment.

Today we’re taking a road trip over to Kentucky on our next installment of our Road Trip ready destinations.  We’re headed to the Red River Gorge region for a fun-filled getaway to an outdoor paradise. Red River Gorge Geological Area is an adventurous outdoor getaway for all types of nature enthusiasts!  Whether you like kayaking or canoeing, rock climbing or hiking, horseback riding or ziplining, or even exploring historic sites, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy from your arrival to departure. more Visitors of all hiking skill levels will enjoy exploring the Original Trail to Natural Bridge, Whistling Arch Trail, Sky Bridge Loop, and Angel Windows Trail, just to name a few short hikes with big scenic views. You can book a climbing trip with professional Instructors and Tour Guides with KRAG. Clip into a zipline and soar 300 feet over The Gorge in one of the state’s fastest Zipline courses, including a side-by-side line to race with your friends and family! If you love nature and animals, you’re also in for a treat!  From May through June, the area is a birder’s paradise as the woodland warblers and various neotropical birds return to the area and are at their peak activity and visibility; you’ll also find year-round residents such as various Hawks, Hummingbirds, Great Blue Herons, Pileated Woodpeckers, Carolina Wrens, Belted Kingfisher, and more.  For the anglers in your group, you’ll find Mill Creek Lake to be a perfect spot for fishing with catches such as Bass, Bluegill, Crappie, Sunfish, Trout, Catfish and more. Nature photographers will be excited to catch some shots of Black Bears, Foxes, the Virginia Big-Eared Bat, White-Haired Goldenrod, and more; the area is home to 67 species of reptiles and amphibians, 46 species of mammals, and 100 species of birds.  Plus, there are numerous fungi, mosses, trees, and wildflowers growing in the area and changing each season! But That’s Not All there is to do in the area…. Kentucky Reptile Zoo houses more than 100 species of reptiles including turtles, alligators, lizards, anacondas, and so much more. There are thrice daily reptile shows, and you can even learn how venomous snakes are used to collect venom for development of antivenom and more. You’ll get to talk to the experts and learn about global and local reptiles and their environments.  Hop on a guided tour and get the inside scoop from a knowledgeable guide about all the exhibits up close and personal. Cable’s Riding Stable’s is a family-owned and operated riding stable featuring trail rides through the local trails and scenery. You’ll get a guided tour on horseback ranging from 45 minutes to an hour, and both children and adults are welcomed. Kentucky Dragway is the largest facility and biggest venue in Powell County, and one of the oldest drag strips in the nation. It first opened its doors in 1963, and has been home to drag racing tradition ever since.  The Kentucky Dragway is a family friendly venue aiming to provide safe, clean fun to race fans and drivers alike.  Every Friday and Saturday from March through November, weather permitting, where you can enjoy classic drag race motorsports. Specialty Events also run on select weekends from Friday through Sunday. Natural Bridge State Park is adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest, and located near the Red River Gorge Geological Area. This stunning sandstone arch bridge spans 78 feet and is 65 feet high, and is an incredible destination year round for visitors.   It’s a popular spot for hiking, canoeing, swimming, and even camping, making it another great stop on your trip to the Red River area!  The area features high stone cliffs, stone arches, natural mountain springs, carved rock formations and tunnels, and exquisite hiking trails through magnificent evergreen forests.  The Natural Bridge Cave takes you beneath the earth to explore underground formations.  Lookout Point offers panoramic views of the area and surrounding forests.  Mill Creek Lake makes for a wonderful swimming space and picnic area.  The Sky-Lift brings you up 1 mile across the steep terrain offering scenic views and a shortcut to visiting the arch itself. The Gorge Underground offers an incredibly unique look at the region via boat and kayak tours through historic mines.  Book a tour with an expert and make your way through a 100-year+ limestone mind and learn the history of the Red River Gorge from within a custom-built cave boat.  Or you can opt to paddle your own way through the mines in a one-hour kayaking tour with an experienced guide lit by headlamp and lanterns.  Looking for something once-in-a-lifetime? You’ll certainly get what you’re looking for and then some with Sup Kentucky’s incredible Crystal Clear Kayak and Crystal Clear Sup Tours; explore the Underground with a crystal bottomed kayak with LEDs and get a look at the water below, or book a 90 minute Stand Up Paddleboard Tour with a crystal LED paddleboard.

Spring is finally here and we’re so excited!  We’re planning plenty of weekend getaways and short road trip adventures, sort of like a microdose of that Summer Vacation energy.  But with this increase in travel comes the reminder that now more than ever, you should be keeping up with your maintenance.  Maintaining your regular service call schedule and maintenance appointments may also decrease the risk of having engine troubles due to long drives and increasing hot weather.  Let us help you be prepared for anything with today’s latest installment of the Gearhead Guru Guide! more Your vehicle’s engine has one primary function: Convert fuel into mechanical energy and propel the vehicle forward.  An internal combustion engine converts energy from heat of the burning gasoline into mechanical torque, which is applied to the wheels to make the car move.  Key engine components that make this process work seamlessly include Pistons, the Crankshaft, cylinder, and Valvetrain.  Maintaining your engine through oil changes, coolant checks, and regular tune-ups can help extend the life of your vehicle. Keep reading to learn more about how to diagnose common engine problems and how to avoid them! Don’t skip those oil changes and remember to regularly check your vehicle’s oil! Proper lubrication is key to ensuring your engine works properly by reducing friction and preventing overheating. Skipping engine oil changes can lead to increased emissions, overheating, poor fuel economy, increased wear on the engine, and potentially catastrophic engine failures. The average oil change should be performed every 3,000-6,000 miles, but you’ll want to consult your owners’ manual for specifics on your make/model and year vehicle. (Some synthetic oils allow up to 10,000-15,000 miles between changes in specific cases.)  Check your oil regularly to make sure it is clean and clear; if it looks dirty and dark or sludgy, bring it in for an oil change and inspection ASAP to ensure no further damage is occurring meanwhile. Flush and change that Dirty/Old Coolant and avoid overheating! For vehicles that are 5+ Years old or have 100,000+ miles on them, bring your vehicle in to a service center for a radiator flush and refilled with fresh coolant. Dirty coolant is rendered no longer effective, leading to rust, corrosion, reduced flow and clogs. If your dirty coolant clogs the radiator, your vehicle is likely to overheat and cause serious damage. Avoid engine misfires, rough idle, and low gas mileage by replacing spark plugs at recommended intervals. Vehicle spark plugs should be swapped every 30,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the make/model/year of your vehicle. You can consult your vehicle owner’s manual for the proper timeline of replacements. Continuing to drive with a faulty spark plug reduces power to the engine, tanks your fuel economy, and can put a heavy load on vehicles with a catalytic converter. You can do a visual inspection to check if your spark plugs are worn; a normal spark plug will have brown or gray or tan deposits. If the sparkplug is bad, you may notice white deposits and residue, melted electrodes, black dry soot, or even black and oily deposits, which each have their own issues. Bring your vehicle in for a spark plug change and diagnostic to stay ahead of any other related troubles brewing. Don’t ignore any signs of coolant leaks! If your vehicle loses too much coolant, the engine could overheat, resulting in poor performance levels, a significant drop in power, and potentially catastrophic engine damage. You should bring your vehicle in ASAP for a service repair if you notice any coolant leaking. If it happens while driving, the damage could happen very quickly depending on the temperature, speed at which you’re driving, and how little coolant remains – you could have minutes before it overheats.   You can check for signs of a coolant leak around the radiator cap, the hoses in the engine compartment, and also on the actual radiator itself.  Sometimes, a leaking hose or hole in the radiator may be a slow leak, and may not overheat quickly.  Additionally, there is a significant environmental safety issue with leaking coolant, as the sweet smell often attracts household pets, wildlife, and sometimes even children, who may ingest it and face toxicity issue. So if you notice or suspect a leak in the coolant, bring it in ASAP! Other common culprits of engine troubles your mechanic may bring up include (but are not limited to) damaged oxygen sensors, lean or rich air and fuel mixtures, worn combustion parts, bad fuel injectors,and more. If you suspect any engine issues may be affecting your vehicle, you can call Classic Auto Body Shop of Waukegan and we’ll help you get your vehicle in tip-top shape.