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Spring is just around the corner, and we’re so excited!  This month we’re celebrating with some fun events for an enjoyable and exciting Spring Break, jampacked with day trips, weekends events, and plenty of fun in the fresh air.  If you’re looking for something to entertain the kids and have some family togetherness, we’ve also got a lot of fantastic options for you, too! more On March 5th, the Lake Forest Public Library in Lake Forest is hosting a beautiful workshop with Nancy Swanson from Northshore Music Therapy and invites you to “Explore Music Therapy” from 7PM to 8PM. On March 5th at The Board Room in Libertyville, enjoy a St Patricks’ Day Savory Charceuterie Class starting at 7PM! Usher in Spring with a fabulous “Paint Night” at North Shore Distillery in Green Oaks on Wednesday March 6th from 7PM to 9PM as you create your own work of art with handcrafted cocktails. Class led by artist Brooke Dahmen and we’ll be painting some beautiful blossoms together! Get in the competitive spirit on Thursday March 7th for a fun night of games and trivia at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville! Test your knowledge in local facts, history, and paleontology for Family Trivia night starting from 6PM to 7PM. If trivia night has you itching to play more games, join in the fun for Family Game Night at Deerfield Park District in Deerfield on Friday March 8th! Admission prices include games and snacks. On March 8th at the Jack Benny Center for the Arts in Waukegan, celebrate Women’s History Month with a special Art Exhibition Showcase for Women's International Celebration with Dandelion Gallery! The event takes place from 5:30PM to 8:30PM Calling all dog lovers! On March 9th from 10AM to 11Am at the Lake Forest Public Library, stop in and enjoy a presentation and meet a real life therapy dog visiting from Paws for Patrick, a nonprofit supporting young folks by connecting them with ESAs and therapy dogs! Saturday MArch 9th and Sunday March 10th at the Lake Coutny Fairgroudns and Event Center in Grayslake the annual Grayslake Antique and Flea Market comes to town! Featuring vintage clothing, collectibles, furniture, jewelry, and other incredible collectibles and retro finds.  Hours are 9AM to 4PM on Saturday and 9AM to 3PM on Sunday. Rivalry Alehouse in Antioch is hosting “Barbie’s Birthday Bash” on Saturday March 9th from 11AM to 3PM in Downtown Antioch! The whole town will be participating with fun Barbie themed activities. The first 100 people to register will also receive a special Keepsake Barbie Bag! Celebrate the St Paddy’s day excitement with your family for “Leaping Leprechauns” at the Grayslake Park District in Grayslake from 5:30PM to 8PM. There will be pizza, crafting, dancing and merriment, and even a hunt for leprechaun gold.  This is a drop-off class, so parents can send the kiddos and have a little R&R. On Saturday March 16th, the Vine Martini and Wine Bar in Grayslake is hosting a special “Mom and Me” class! Each ticket bundle has 1 adult ticket and 1 child ticket, a cookie kit for each of you, a special drink, and a surprise. This special “Decorate Cookies: Taylor’s Version” is the perfect event for Swifties! On Saturday MArch 16th from 5PM to 9PM the Art Wauk in Waukegan is back!  Enjoy special events and showings all around downtown Waukegan in the Arts and Entertainment district. Now through April 28th, the Great Wolf Lodge Illinois in Gurnee is hosting a spectacular family friendly “Spring Breakout” event with yoga, arts and crafts, games, and dance parties. Now through March 30th at the Marriot Theatre in Lincolnshire, you and your family will be able to enjoy a whimsical world of fantasy with Roald Dahl’s “James and the Giant Peach” feature a Tony Award nominated musical score and lyrics!

Today we’re celebrating Today we’re not only celebrating women’s history month but also Read Across America Day with a wonderful selection of wanderlust inspired books.  These four fabulous travel and road trip themed books penned by women authors will have you riveted.  So load up your kindle and stack up your Audible wishlist because these book are here to inspire your own bucket list travel goals more Living the Vanlife: On the road toward sustainability, community, and joy written by Noami Grevemberg This non-fiction book chronicles Noami’s years living life fulltime on the road and evolving from corporate office life to one of simplicity and eco-conscious choices.  Her journey began in 2016, and she takes us along on a thoughtful and inclusive look at this increasingly popular lifestyle!  Exploring what it means to live life on the road as a BIPOC, Noami’s identity as a Trinidadian immigrant offers a different perspective than most.  Learn the ins-and-outs of budgeting for vanlife, finding alternate employment, keeping yourself safe, and even converting a van to fit your needs and wants. It’s packed full of color photographs that will captivate and inspire you! Mothertrucker: Finding Joy on the Loneliest Road in America written by Amy Butcher This true story is bittersweet but inspiring, exploring what it means to love again after loss and grief, test the bonds of friendship, search for personal fulfillment, and find your inner strength.  After reaching the limits of her emotionally turbulent home life, Amy contacted Joy “Mothertrucker” Wiebe , an instagram famous 50 year old mother, wife, and the country’s only female ice road trucker!  Joy responded by inviting Amy to join her on this profoundly life changing 400+ mile journey through the Alaskan Wilderness.  Between these pages you’ll find stories that led them to their unexpected friendship, explore the reality of living with domestic violence, the challenges of being a woman, and the beauty of female friendships. It’s a truly compelling read like nothing else! A Trip of One’s Own: Hope, Heartbreak, and Why Traveling Solo Could Change Your Life written by Kate Wills Travel Writer Kate Wills has penned a captivating and compelling memoir about hope, healing, and self-discovery as she makes her way solo across the world.  From thrills, chills, and vulnerable personal moments, you’ll grow along with Kate as she experiences the world on her own terms.  Filled with personal stories as well as amazing tips for solo travel, this is a fascinating read that will give you the itch to hop on a plane and try something new! From Excuses to Excursions: How I started Traveling the World written by Gloria Atanmo Broken up into four parts The Dream, The Journey, The Adventure, and The Destination), each of these curious titles encapsulates a different part of Gloria’s personal journey. If you’ve been wanting to travel, but are waiting for the “perfect moment”, let this book be the nudge you need to step out of your comfort zone and become the globetrotter you’re meant to be.  With inspiring and insightful stories, tips, and essential knowledge for successful and fulfilling travel, Gloria will take you along from her girlhood dreams to fruition as a world traveler.  There’s plenty of humor, wit, and wisdom in these pages and engaging glimpses into her own mind and soul.  Don’t miss this one!

It’s National Minnesota day, and we thought we’d bring you another fun road trip guide to celebrate the occasion. From waterfalls and state parks to zoos and museums, we’ve got some great destinations to add to your next itinerary! more The state has a plethora of fantastic Scenic Byways to explore if you’re looking to do some joyriding and enjoy a scenic tour of the state.  Scenic byways are public roads and highways that provide a unique roadside view to scenic areas, natural landscapes, and other areas of cultural and historical significance.  There are more than 2,900 miles worth of incredible scenic byways throughout the state, so there’s plenty of opportunity to add a few to your next drive! Let’s check it out four incredible byways to get you started: Minneapolis Grand Rounds Scenic Byway is the road you’ll want to take if you’re short on time, but want to make sure to see a little bit of everything Minnesota has to offer!  You’ll find plenty of spectacular scenic views and vista points, perfect for snapping a family photo or having a little picnic. There are lots of stops to stretch your legs and enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and other outdoor recreational activities.  Explore the Chain of Lakes, featuring Nokomis, Harriet, Maka Ska, and Lake of the Isles. Walk along the downtown riverfront area along the Mississippi River.  Explore spectacular botanical gardens like the wildflower garden at Theodore Wirth Park and a Rose Garden at Lake Harriet. Observe some beautiful artwork at the Weisman Art Museum or Minneapolis Institute of the Arts or the Minneapolis Sculpture garden. Catch a show or a performance at Orchestra Hall or the Guthrie Theatre!  Plus, numerous historic sites, shops, stores to peruse, and plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat. Glacial Ridge Trail Scenic Byway is a 220 mile route winding through stunning lakes, majestic woods, and sprawling farmlands.  As the massive glaciers that once covered this area began to melt away, they left behind a series of sparkling lakes dotting the hills and ridges of central Minnesota.  This route also winds through three different state parks: Sibley, Monsoon, and Glacial Lake, perfect for a nature lover’s day trip with lots of hiking, birding, wildlife spotting, and even fishing. Otter Trail Scenic Byway features over 1,000 glistening lakes along ,impressive wetlands chock full of local wildlife, scenic trails for hiking and biking, historic sites and roadside sculpture attractions.  The area is also a prime spot for outdoor recreation including fishing, hunting, boating and watersports, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and more. It’s a wonderful year-round destination! Lake Country Scenic Byway encompasses 88 miles of scenic drive connecting Walker, Park Rapids, and Detroit Lakes, as well as a segment of the Pine to Prairie Birding Trail.  This region is one of the area’s top spots for birding, with Itasca and the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge being two places of note.  There are numerous lakes offering plenty of hiking, biking, camping, and lakeside resort stays.  If you’re interested in exploring local arts and culture, there are numerous art galleries and historic sites. There are more than 20 incredible byways located all around and across the state, and we encourage you to explore each of them and experience a wide variety of opportunities to experience the state in a new light. Here’s a full list of Minnesota’s byways so you can plot out your next road trip to include one or more! If you want to add some unique and unexpected experiences to your memory books, you’ll love these four suggestions on our list of wild, weird, and strange places to explore in Minnesota. The Runestone Museum is located in downtown Alexandria, and it houses an impressive collection of both Nordic and Native American artifacts and exhibits, and gives visitors a chance to learn about the local history of the area as well as explore its wildlife and environment.  Be sure to check out the mysterious Kensington Runestone while you’re there.  They also have a family friendly Scavenger Hunt that’s sure to please everyone in your travel party. The Spam Museum is located in Austin and worth a stop especially since it’s a $0 admission destination! This quirky little roadside museum features the world-famous canned pre-cooked meat product, chronicling its history and exploring its culinary significance around the globe.  You’ll find an extensive collection of pork products, try your hand at the mock assembly line, or pose for some goofy photos.  It’s a silly but worthwhile stop on your next trip through the area. The Franconia Sculpture Park features 100 sculptures in its rotating collection spread across 50 sprawling acres, and is home to a rotating cast of residency artists.  Each year the sculpture park hosts numerous public and educational events and special arts programming. Open from 8Am to 8PM daily, it’s free and open to the public, making it a wonderful place for budget friendly vacation fun.  This everchanging exhibit of large scale artwork blends into the landscape and each piece looks uniquely fresh in its environment depending on the weather and the seasons, making it a great place to return to again and again for a fresh new experience each time! House of Balls is sure to bring the giggles with its eccentric exhibits designed to be touched and interacted with!  The inventive exhibit has no set hours, making it a perfect plot on your map to stop whenever you need a break on your travel schedule.  These whimsical pieces are created with the hopes that visitors will tap into their sense of wonder, play, and imagination.  Artist and sculptor Allen Christian has been working on his vision since the late 1980s, and his pieces explore the connection between humans and the inanimate world around them.  Most of the materials in the sculptures are sourced from found objects, and created in the image of the human figure.  A visit to the House of Balls will undoubtedly leave you feeling creative, curious, and cheerful! If you’re craving some time in the great outdoors so you can get back in touch with nature, here are four fantastic spaces to explore and get back to your roots with green grass, tall trees, and beautiful botanicals. The Boundary Waters Canoe Wilderness Area boasts more than 1,200 miles of majestic canoe routes, over 12 different hiking trails, and over 2,000 different campsite areas.  It’s considered one of America’s most beautiful and remote places, and it’s easy to see why. With more than one million rugged acres of wilderness and nature trails, it’ll take your breath away!  Take a trek through the pristine forest regions, paddle across the glacial lakes, wade through the sparkling streams, and bask in the fresh air and sunshine of the Superior National Forest. It’s unparalleled beauty and natural wonder. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a 1,200 acre curated horticultural garden and arboreum established by the University of Minnesota.  Enjoy seasonal demonstrations such as the Maple Fest where more than 350 trees are tapped for sap to make syrup.  Attend the annual Spring Flower Show and view some spectacular species of plants and flowers.  Check out what’s blooming in the weekly Garden Highlights section to find out what to look forward to on your visit with each seasonal change. Check out the local artist panels and works inspired by nature such as the “Mosaics and Mirrors Artist Talk”. Learn about local plants and wildflowers with a walk through the garden, and stop in for some light reading about gardening and horticulture at the Andersen Horticultural Library. Niagara Cave is a local wonder offering visitors a chance to hike below the earth’s surface, as well as getting up close and personal with some pretty impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and other natural wonders.  The natural limestone cave is around 200 feet below ground, and houses impressive formations such as the Elephant’s Head and the Wishing Well!  There’s also a magnificent 60 foot underground waterfall that can’t be missed. Book a Guided Cave tour, learn about the history of the Vikre family, and explore what it’s like to live as a professional geologist.  It’s a must-see natural park area, and it’s in the Top Ten highly rated caves in the US! Gooseberry Falls is one of the top waterfalls in the state, and worthy of a visit no matter the season.  In the autumn, the area looks like an artist’s paint palette with vivid ruby reds, burnt oranges, sunshine yellows, and mossy greens.  In the winter, the falls freeze over and the area becomes a veritable winter wonderland and ice palace.  In the spring, the waterfalls are at their strongest as the ice and snow melt and feed the rushing waters. In the summer, the area is a verdant paradise of lush greenery and wildlife.  You absolutely have to add this to your road trip bucket list!

We love to explore all there is to see right here in our own backyard in Lake County, but there’s something special about breaking outside our comfort zone and checking off new places on our bucket list!  Pack up your pals and all your best flannels, because we’re heading to the west coast on this latest travel guide.  Today, we’re celebrating “Twin Peaks Day” with the ultimate road trip inspiration itinerary to check out all of the mysterious and mind-bending places in David Lynch’s iconic television series. more Big Ed’s Gas Farm - Issaquah, WA This gas station’s pumps were removed right after filming the pilot episode, so the majority of Big Ed’s scenes were filmed in California.  It’s now a New Age crystal shop, but you can still stop by and check off an iconic stop on your list and snap a few pictures, and maybe buy something mysterious inside to commemorate the visit! Laura Palmer’s Crime Scene Beach - Poulsbo, WA This infamous scene was filmed at the Kiana Lodge in Poulsbo. You can stop by and see  the foggy, misty shoreline and the giant log is still there on the pebble beach.  Just be sure to have some patience and wait your turn for photos, as this is also a popular hot spot for locals to snag some wedding portraits! Twin Peaks Road House Bar - Fall City, WA This local family-friendly roadhouse was used in exterior shots as the Twin Peaks roadhouse biker bar.  No interior shots were used here, as those were filmed at another location in Seattle, but you’ll have plenty of time to stop here for a few posed photos and grab a quick bite before heading off to your next stop! Snoqualmie Falls - Snoqualmie, WA Featured in the opening credits, this misty, mysterious waterfall appears to be secluded in a remote location, but in reality these falls are a hot stop for nature enthusiasts!  It’s one of the most-visited attractions in the state ,so we recommend you head there early in the day to beat the crowds and get your best memory-book snapshots! (Pack your ponchos and waterproof camera gear, because thai 270 foot waterfall is very strong and the observation areas are very wet and misty.) It’s adjacent to the Salish Lodge and Spa, making it a very convenient overnight stay location! The Great Northern Hotel - Fall City, WA The infamous interior scenes of The Great Northern Hotel were actually filmed at the Kiana Lodge in Poulsbo and on a soundstage in LA, but the closet thing for fans to check out is Salish Lodge and Spa!  There’s a wonderful gift shop filled wall to wall with fun Twin Peaks ephemera and goodies, and you can book a stay in their woodsy lodge style rooms that look straight like you leapt right into the TV screen! Twin Peaks High School - Snoqualmie, WA Mount Si High School doubled as the fictional school for Audrey, Laura, Shelly, and Donna in the television series, but was recently demolished.  If you’re looking for the location used in the corresponding movie, “Fire Walk With Me”, you’ll want to head over to Snohomish High School in Snohomish, WA instead. The Iconic Entry Road/Sign to Twin Peaks - Snoqualmie, WA Those establishing shots of Cooper driving into town are seared into our memories!  The iconic “Welcome to Twin Peaks” population sign is no longer on the side of the road here, but fans will have no trouble recognizing that iconic winding, misty road with the stunning Cascade mountain range in the background.  It’s none other than local street Reinig Road.  If you’d like to add your own sign back into the photo, you can stop by the original sign filming location about 1 or 2 miles east of Ronette’s Bridge and Sparkwood and 21 on Reinig Road. The Double R Diner - North Bend, WA This real life location for the infamous diner is actual called Twede’s Cafe!  When you enter the cafe you’ll find familiar signs and decor hinting at it’s double life moonlighting as the Double R Diner in the series!  And of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t suggest you order yourself a “damn fine cup of hot coffee, black as midnight on a moonless night” with a side of their delicious cherry pie.  It’s a must-see on your fandom road trip! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the return of The Real Twin Peaks Festival in Snoqualmie Valley, WA! Rumors have it that it’ll be back in late 2024/early 2025!

We’re expanding our usual road trip guide outside of the regional Midwest area, and hoping to inspire you to explore new adventures this summer!  Take your new car from Classic on the Ultimate Road Trip as you head out west to explore the incredible natural wilderness of California! We’ve got some incredible stopping points to add to your road trip itinerary as you explore the sunshine state to the fullest.  Plus, we’ve even got some tips for some year-round fun if you prefer to visit the tourist attractions in the “off season” for a quieter experience.  We love the Pacific Coast highway as much as the next roadtripper, but here are four incredible jaw-dropping spaces to explore on your next trip. more Got some suggestions for your own stops in these areas? Let us know in the comments on our social media! We would love to hear from you and update future blogs with your input. Yosemite National Park is a nature lover's paradise!  This pristine wilderness is lovingly maintained and monitored by the US National Park Service as well as several volunteer crews and service groups in the touristy areas.  This park is unmatched in landscape views and vistas all year round, but especially in the Spring season when the waterfalls are at their peak during the Sierra snow melts.  There are 5 massive waterfalls of 1.000 feet or more.  With more than 1,200 square miles of protected parklands, you’ll be stunned as you make your way along mountain ridges, explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, take a guided tour through the most scenic regions, and challenge your strength on the miles and miles of hiking trails of varying height and landscape.  If you’re hoping to beat the crowds, the earlier you arrive to explore, the better, especially if you’re headed to the Valley area.  Wildlife enthusiasts should be on the lookout for Sierra Nevada Red Foxes, Black Bears, Bobcats, Nevada Bighorn Sheep, and more. Death Valley National Park i s a very unique scenic stop on your California road trip bucket list. Famous for clogging the highest temperature ever recorded anywhere in the world (a record breaking 134 degrees in July of 1936), and the driest spot in North America from Autumn to Spring eason, this is a formidable but awe-inspiring exploration spot.  With more than 3.4 million acres, this national park is the largest in the lower 48 states.  It’s full boundless sparkling landscapes with sweeping sand dunes, magnificent and majestic wildlife, startlingly beautiful carved canyons and rock outcroppings, and incredible wildlife sightings.  Points of merit to visit included Badwater Basin Saltflats, Zabriskie Point, Devils Golf Course, Ubehebe Crater, Artist’s Drive and Palette, and Golden Canyon (just to name a few!) Nature photographers can be on the lookout for coyotes, roadrunners, lizards, desert kangaroo rats, Black-tailed Jack Rabbits and more. Sequoia National Park is home to five of the ten largest trees in the entire world!  You’ve never seen anything quite like these prehistoric giants, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on earth by volume.  These magnificent trees only grow here, and are so impressively large you really have to see it to believe it.  It will really have you reflecting on our connection to our planet as part of a larger ecosystem, and the magnificent grand scale of our universe as a whole.  Hiking or driving through this forest of ever-growing trees you’ll be in awe to exist amidst the oldest living organisms on this planet, some as old as 3,000 years!  While it is one of the busier, more touristy stops on our list, we can’t recommend it enough.  A trip on foot really provides an unforgettable experience!  It’s also a great spot for car camping, challenging hikes, and even outdoorsy pursuits like fishing in designated areas.  It’s open year round, but Summer is peak viewing season with best weather being from June through August. Lake Tahoe is known for it’s crystal clear blue waters, world-class landscape vistas, and incredible opportunities to enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming like you’ve never experienced before. It’s the largest freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada range, as well as the largest alpine lake in all of North America.  Only the 5 Great Lakes are larger by volume, which is impressive given that Lake Tahoe is 122,160,280 acre feet!  It’s also the second-deepest in the United States after Oregon’s Crater Lake.  Photographers will revel in the beauty of crystalline waters against aquamarine skies with spectacular sunrises and sunsets.  It’s even a popular destination during the winter, with prime time skiing and snowboarding available.  We recommend checking out Emerald Bay State Park, Eagle Falls, Fannette Island, Vikingsholm, Tallac Historic Site, Fallen Leaf Lake, and D.L. Bliss State Park. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, and worth visiting all year round for a unique experience each season!

We understand not everyone is what the industry calls “a gearhead” (a huge enthusiast of all things automotive), but there are a number of things you should know about as an everyday driver and car owner that just make sense. From basic maintenance checks to regular owner inspections and more, here are eight great things you should know to help keep your car in tip-top shape. more Learn when and how to check your fluid levels. Your owner’s manual will guide you to the specific places in your vehicle to check and replenish, but the basics you should monitor include: checking your oil level, antifreeze level, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and power steering fluid level.  Make sure that you know how to top off those fluids and when to have them flushed/changed by a professional.  It’s also important to make sure you know which specific oil type or blend your vehicle requires, as well as which antifreeze/coolant best serves your regional weather requirements. Know when to bring your vehicle in for regular maintenance. On average, modern vehicles require oil changes between 3,000 and 6,000 miles, and it’s generally recommended to rotate your tires at that time as well. Every 6,000 miles, you  should have an alignment check and adjustment as needed.  At the 30,000 mark you should receive a general scheduled maintenance check.  At 50,000 miles you can expect to replace your shocks and struts. At 60,000 miles you can be expected to repair or replace belts, hoses, and tires.  These mileage requirements depend on the make/model of your vehicle, and your driving habits, so be sure to bring it in for regularly scheduled oil changes for your mechanic to give your vehicle a good once-over. Understand how to properly stock and maintain an emergency roadside kit. You never want to be caught in the lurch, but of course accidents and emergencies happen anyway!  In addition to ensuring you have proper insurance coverage, and purchasing an extra plan with roadside assistance options, it’s important to be prepared in the event of an accident or breakdown. Your car kit should include basic first aid kit, fire extinguisher, reflective warning triangles or LED flares, jumper cables, a tire patch kit, tire gauge, tow rope, duct tape, a warm blanket, and a flashlight at bare minimum. Learn how to change your tire and put on a spare/donut. In today’s modern age, it’s easy to rely on services such as roadside assistance and GPS apps in your smartphone for tracking and alerting people for help.  But what happens when you’re traveling through a “dead zone” or have low reception? What if your vehicle gets a flat tire in an area that’s not exactly convenient to wait at length?  Knowing how to change your own tire and place a spare or donut on to get to safety is a vital skill all drivers should know. It’s still fine to call for assistance if you need it, but it’s never bad to be prepared just in case, so practice doing this at least one or two times on your own to be safe. Learn how to clean and replace your car’s cabin air filter. Your air filter is usually hidden behind your glove box and easy enough to access. It’s important to clean and vacuum this regularly, removing any dirt, dust, debris ….or even dead critters before it becomes a problem! It’s not uncommon in cold weather for small animals and even kittens to crawl under the hood of a vehicle to keep warm, and sometimes they’ll bring a bit of the outside in to insulate them.  If you notice that your car smells musty or funky, it’s time to clean or change that air filter! Limit the amount of weight held on your keyring when putting the keys into the ignition. We love adding a little touch of our personality and special interests to our keyring in the form of keychains, flashlights, little pocket knives for hand tools, and other accoutrement, but the weight can really add up.  Hanging a heavy key ring of your ignition can cause damage to your vehicle and it will wear out over time. Avoid costly repairs and aggravation by removing your car key from the heavier overall key-ring before inserting and starting your vehicle! If your car starts to overheat, you can use your heat system to draw it away from the engine. If you notice the temperature gauge on your car climbing at an alarming rate, it’s still best to pull over in a safe spot as soon as possible. However, you can buy yourself a little more time to get to safety by opening your vehicle’s windows and blasting the heating. It will draw the heat and hot air away from the engine and blow into the cabin and out the windows, making it a safer option while you find a spot pull over. Do not keep driving your vehicle further than necessary if it overheats as you can cause severe damage or even cause the engine to seize or catch fire. Always keep a spare reserve of cash on hand for unexpected repairs as well as average maintenance costs. When you purchase a vehicle, there are numerous resources online to determine the average cost of repairs for yearly and routine maintenance.  You can also check reports for mileage milestone repair costs and set those aside. Things to consider are oil changes, tire rotations, sets of 2 and 4 tires, and general tuneups. We know it can be challenging sometimes to divert money to a vehicle safety net fund, but if you’re able to do so it’s your smartest preparedness plan.

Let’s face it, if you’ve got pets you know that every day is Love Your Pet Day. However, that’ also means it is extremely likely that you’ll never turn down a reason to spoil your favorite companion a little bit extra on days like today!  We’re sharing our love for all of our pet companions from small to large and celebrating with some great ideas for day trips and weekend getaways in the Chicago area and Wisconsin (especially the Milwaukee area.) more A gentle reminder: while it’s wonderful to take your companion animals everywhere you go, be mindful that there are some places that aren’t appropriate to bring your canine companion (or other well-trained pet) due to health codes or other regulations. Others may be restricted to service task oriented animals only, so please be mindful of store and business guidelines and check their websites or call to verify before bringing your canine companion or other animal with you. Without further ado, here’s some wonderful pet-friendly places to put on your pet pal bucket list! Best dog-friendly attractions in Chicago: Mercury’s Canine Cruise Seadog Cruises Chicago by Hornblower Montrose Dog Beach Chicago Riverwalk Jackson Bark Navy Pier Midwest Coast Brewing Company Puptown at MargatePark Lake Shore Park Chicago Lakefront Trail Alarmist Brewing & Taproom Begyle Brewing Kayak Chicago Dog Friendly Milwaukee Activities: Milwaukee Boat Line Lakeshore Paddle Sport Rentals Salty Paws Granville Dog Park Black Husky Brewing Lost Valley Cider Co Milwaukee RiverWalk Oak Leaf Trail Broken Bat Brewing Company Twisted Path Distillery MOD GEN Stigler Nature Preserve Many restaurants may not allow canine companions or felines to join you for a meal due to health code regulations, but these special venues are designated pet-friendly! Five Fabulous Dog-Friendly Chicagoland Area Eateries: Barrio i n River North is a popular Mexican restaurant with a special pup-friendly menu in a rustic-industrial chic setting! They offer a wonderful selection of specialty cocktails and expansive Mexican menu for humans, too. Park & Field in Logan Square has a fantastic dog-friendly patio setup that’s just perfect for a Spring lunch date.  You and your pup can lunch together in the sunshine!  As you enjoy a handcrafted cocktail or craft beer and some games, your pet may chow down with a wonderful menu catered just to pups including a Bird Dog or Pooch Patty option with an exquisite Pup Cup for dessert. Big Star on N Damen Ave has the perfect patio for your pooch to catch some rays while you sip on a signature margarita and some fine mexican food from the outdoor pick-up window.  The restaurant loves dogs so much, in fact, they even have their own Instagram hashtag: #dogsofBigStar Benchmark in the Old Town area is another fantastic pet-friendly spot with the best “bar food” in town, including six custom types of french fry, 10 types of wings, a plethora of beers on tap, delicious pizza and burgers, and more. Plus, they love pups so much your dog can choose from their house doggie menu.  And don’t forget to document your doggie date, as the bar has its own dedicated hashtag #4CPatioPuppies, and they do gift card giveaways for the posts with hte most likes! Howells & Hood in the heart of downtown Chicago is a surefire win for dining with your pup next to your side.  You and your human companions can select from more than 100 craft beers, and enjoy a dish off their expansive menu including their signature Sweet Chili Chicken or Smoked BBQ ribs.  If your pup requires a drink, too, you can ask your server for a water bowl and they’ll deliver it tableside for you! Three Terrific Dog Friendly Eateries in Southern Wisconsin: The Dog House Bar & Grill in Mt Horeb has a spacious outdoor patio that’s allows dog-friendly dining! Their Monster Burger is the stuff of legends, and we’re sure your dog won’t be sad if they get a tiny taste of it, too! (but not too much, because it’s very rich for pups!) Grateful Shed in Wisconsin Dells is a standout due to the fact that it offers dog-friendly dining both inside and outside!  With a variety of food trucks and cuisines to choose from, there’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy.  Hang out with your friends and your pups and enjoy some fresh spring air and a delicious snack, no matter what your tastes are! Riley’s Social House in Milwaukee is welcome to all your well-behaved canine companions whether you join in a local dog meet-up group or just a date for two (or three or four…we don’t blame you for collecting pups like potato chips!)  It’s not just a dog friendly bar and restaurant in their outdoor space, but inside as well!  The drinks and the dining are spectacular, and the owners gain high marks with dog lovers and dogs alike for their friendliness and cheer. What’s not to love? Traveling with Fido overnight? Here’s some wonderful Dog-Friendly Lodging options to try while taking your next road trip together! A Selection of Chicago’s Dog Friendly Stays: The Guesthouse Hotel allows two dogs of any size in special pet-friendly rooms at no extra charge, and you’ll have your own canine concierge! As a special bonus, dog bowls and beds are available if needed, and it’s fine for dogs to be left unattended in rooms.  It’s also very close to the biggest dog beach in Chicago, making it perfect for dogs who love some fun in the sun and sand! The Emily Hotel allows big dogs, small dogs, and everything in between, and accommodates families with two dogs for a fee of $100 per stay.  They’ll be treated like royalty at check-in with a designated grassy pet relief area, a special treat all their own, and beds and bowls at the front desk. The only request from housekeeping is that your dogs are crated when they enter the room for cleaning and restocking amenities. Ray’s Bucktown Bed and Breakfast allows doggy guests of any size for an additional pet lodging fee of only $20 per night. Your furry friends will be well received at check-in with plenty of puppy cuddles, kisses, spare doggy bags, their very own treats, and water bowls or the room. Just Some of Wisconsin’s Special Dog Friendly Hotels: Justin Trails B&B Resort offers 200 acres of meadow and woodlands with three ponds, trails for on or off-leash adventures, and  if your pup is extra friendly and well-mannered, they may enjoy a romp with the resident husky and llamas on the grounds!  There is a small daily pet free as part of your lodging costs, but there are no weight restrictions on canine companions for suites or cabins. Grand Geneva Resort and Spa allows 1 or 2 small canine companions in tow fo ra small pet fee, which includes a designated dog-in-room tag, a special food bowl, “Guest of Grand Geneva” collar tags for each pup, and a special clean-up packet for the pup relief areas. The Iron Horse Hotel is a historic industrial warehouse turned hotel that offers incredible loft lodgings that are assuredly pet friendly. In fact, your dog will get their own in-room pet bed, bowls, gourmet treats, and more as part of the “Big Dog Special” package  – they’ll even be welcomed on the special guest board in the lobby! Plus, you can get reccs from the front desk with local dog friendly areas and eateries! The Jefferson Street Inn is so animal friendly that it once hosted the beloved animal handler Jack Hanna and his menagerie (including a tiger, snake, flamingo and penguin in tow!).  You and your pup can book a pet-friendly accommodation for a small fee, and it includes a special welcome bag of treats for your furry friend as well as special pet dishes for your room!

Looking for something fun to do over a four-day weekend or planning ahead for spring break? We’ve rounded up some wonderful suggestions of exciting activities including plenty that are perfect for family and kid-friendly for a fun, refreshing day trip (or two!) more Adults and families with teens or kids with adventurous taste buds will have a blast on The Chinatown Adventure Food Tour. Stroll through Chinatown for 3 hours as you take in the sights and sample delicious Chinese and Chinese-American staple dishes. The tour is just over a mile, giving fidgety kids plenty of time to get the wiggles out and explore their surroundings with snacks in between. You’ll sample 5 different meals and tastings, enjoy live demonstrations of Chinese cultural traditions, and check out famous landmarks and hidden secrets!  Adults are $80, Adolescents are $50, and children 6 & under are free. Best of all, tours are rain or shine, so you don’t have to worry about canceled plans due to stormclouds - just bring your raincoats and umbrellas! A visit to the Museum of Ice Cream in Chicago is just what the doctor ordered - well, okay, maybe not, but it’s certainly a prescription for lots of fun either way!  Learn about the history of ice cream across 14 different interactive and multi-sensory installations, play in the sprinkle pool, or try your hand at a Putt Putt Mini Golf. And, best of all, this admission booked through Get Your Guide includes Unlimited Ice Cream! What’s not to love about that? Make sure you’ve got plenty of room on your phone’s camera roll, too, as there are lots of opportunities to take fun photos to share with friends and family and do a little memory-making! The Chicago Museum of Illusion i s an incredible all-ages interactive museum featuring interactive rooms, 3D illusions and installations, and even perspective changing rooms that morph right before your eyes.  Nothing is quite what it seems, and you’ll definitely never experience anything quite like it!  The Tilted Room will challenge your vision of reality using tricks of perspective.  The Vortex Tunnel features movement and light in a mind-bending, world-spinning experience you have to see to believe.  The Reversed Room is an imaginative universe where upside down is right side up, and it’s perfect for taking unique family photos!  Explore unique art installations like the multi-dimensional Cloning Table, the Beuchet Chair illusion of perspective and size, and the absolutely bizarre Head on a Platter Display. It’s another day full of memory making that’s perfect for snapping silly pictures to capture the joy and wonder of the moment.  It takes about 2 hours to go through the exhibit, making it a great stop off on your city day trip. If you've got kids under 12, chances are you're no stranger to the marvelous world of Slime.  This multi-sensory toy is all the rage!  Filled with glitter, goop, and treasures galore, this bizarrely sticky, stretchy, and colorful substance has charmed kids (and adults,too) all around the globe! Buying slime to play with at home can be a little bit of a mess, which is why the SlooMoo Institute is the place to go for Slime enthusiasts!  From interactive visual light and motion displays, to a slime recipe kitchen and DIY demonstration, to getting slimed in person, there’s no shortage of ooey, gooey, slimy fun here.  It’s a great way to get the sillies out, too, with lots of hands-on entertainment and tactile experiences.  No need to tell your kids to keep their hands away from the merchandise, because that’s the whole point!  Enjoy the world of ASMR and sensory tactile delights whether you opt for a general admission ticket (with custom 8oz slime included!) or decided to take it one level up with teh Enhanced Experience (which includes getting slimed at SlooMoo Falls.) Take your family to the cinematic experience they’ll never forget with a special live-music scored performance by the Chicago Philharmonic and their “Auditorium Philms Concert Series”! Iconic films are brought to life in concert for an unforgettable experience with memorable scores performed by a full orchestra including Blade Runner, Black Panther, Batman (1989) and even Dracula.  Not all films may be suitable for all ages, so please check content warnings and ratings before booking. Disney Adults and Disney Kids will both be ecstatic to learn about the new Disney 100 Exhibit at the Exhibition Hub Art Center in Chicago. The Walt Disney Archives have brought more than 250 artifacts such as artwork, costumes, props, and memorabilia across 10 different themed galleries.  Journey through the evolution of Disney’s many characters and stories, including Pixar, Star Wars, and even Marvel!  From window displays to character sculptures to character design sketches, you’ll have so much fun learning all about your favorite movies and cartoons.  See the process of your beloved favorites coming to life on the drawing boards of artists, and learn about what inspired the creativity behind the stories. Hours of operation are 9:30AM to 7Pm on Mon/Wed/Thurs/Fri, 9AM to 8:30PM on Saturday, and 9AM to 7PM on Sundays (exhibit closed on Tuesdays.)  This exhibit is fully accessible to all, which means everyone will have an ability to enjoy the magic!

It’s National Battery Day!  For today’s post, we’re going to share a lesson on how to safely jump start your car.  We understand that this important task may seem overwhelming at first glance, or perhaps you have a little anxiety regarding touching the cables to terminals.  Rest easy, traveler!  Your friends here at Classic are here to help demystify the experience and instruct you on how to safely and easily get your battery recharged.  Plus, we’re sharing some facts about your vehicle’s battery that we bet you didn’t know, and tips and tricks to proper battery maintenance! more Fun Facts About Car Batteries: Traditional 12V lead-acid car batteries consist of 6 cells, each with 2.1 volts; these batteries convert chemical energy into electrical energy as a result of the reaction between the plates and sulfuric acid. Car batteries should be checked every 6 months; look for greenish-yellow buildup, loose cables, and use a voltmeter and battery tester to determine  how much power the battery is still emitting. Modern day car batteries last an average of 3 to 6 years, depending on how well your vehicle is maintained. Dead car batteries (12V) don’t get thrown away in the regular trash!  Due to the lead dioxide and sulphuric acid inside traditional car batteries, car batteries have a special recycling process. Electric Vehicle battery packs are designed using lithium-ion chemistry, and the energy that powers EVs comes from this battery.  They typically have a range of 250-350 miles after a full charge. When the vehicle performance dips to 80% of its optimal range, you’ll want to bring your vehicle into a service center to check it out.  Storing your vehicle in a temperature-controlled environment, and keeping the charge above 20% at all times can help extend the lifespan of your EV Battery. Cold weather can decrease the charge of your vehicle’s battery as much as 30%-60%, and that goes for both ICE batteries and EV batteries; EVs may lose driving mileage range anywhere from 10-36% total What leads to dead car batteries? Leaving your headlights or interior lights on without your car running is one of the most common reasons for a dead battery.  If your vehicle is older and doesn’t have a warning signal, or your warning signals are malfunctioning, it’s very easy to forget and leave them on when you exit the vehicle. Always double check that you’ve turned off all exterior/interior lights. Similarly, listening to your vehicle’s radio or stereo  or watching something on the infotainment while the car engine is off can quickly deplete battery resources. If you’re parked and waiting, it will take an average of two to three hours to die, but if your battery is already weaker or older, it may be drained of power much faster than that. Corroded batteries and loose connections can mean that the starter motor is unable to draw a current. Make sure you regularly inspect your car battery for signs of corrosion including blue, green, or white powdery substances leaking out, and notice any signs of damaged connections. If you’re storing or parking your vehicle for a length of time without driving it, the battery will naturally discharge and ultimately die over time.  You can prevent this by starting your vehicle at least once per week.  The longer the car is not used, the longer the battery is not charging! Longer term storage recommendations are to disconnect the car battery by first removing the negative cable then positive cable; this helps keep a fully charged battery in good condition for anywhere from 6 to 12 months! What do you do if your vehicle battery dies? If you have a hybrid or traditional internal combustion engine vehicle, you can jump start your vehicle’s battery.  ICEs and HEVs both use a typical 12V battery to start. It is perfectly safe to jump a hybrid with a non-hybrid car, as well as hybrid to hybrid  Not sure how to jump start a car’s battery? We’ve got you covered in less than 10 easy steps! Step 1: Make sure both cars are parked close to one another with the hoods facing each other, but be sure that the vehicles are not touching. Step 2: Turn off both vehicles, pop the hoods, and locate the batteries. Step 3: Find your jumper cables and unwind/untangle them. Step 4: Attach the red (+) clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.  Then, attach the red (+) clamp to the positive terminal of the working battery. ** Step 5: Attach the black (-) clamp to the negative terminal of the working battery.  Then, attach the remaining black (-) clamp to an unpainted, metal surface of the dead car. ** Step 6: Start the working car.  Follow up by starting the car with the dead battery. Step 7: Once the dead battery car is started, remove the cables in the reverse order that you attached them. Step 8: Let the previously-dead car’s engine run for at least 15 minutes. If you follow these steps and your car won’t start, you’ll want to double check the connections and try again. If after a few attempts the battery will not start, give your roadside assistance a call or head over to the nearest auto parts store/local auto body shop for a replacement battery. ** Note that if you are driving a hybrid vehicle, the other end of the cable attached to the dead vehicle may go in slightly different places depending on the make/model; consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specifics!

Looking for a vehicle option that’s a little more environmentally friendly? Curious about the US Government’s plans for the move to all-electric in the next few decades? Feeling overwhelmed with all of the options out there, and not sure which one is the right type for you? Well, we’re here to help arm you with the knowledge and power to make informed choices, and ease your anxieties around the car buying process. Today, we’re going to take a look at the qualities for hybrids, electric, and combustion engine vehicles to help you figure out which is the right buy for you, your driving style, and lifestyle needs. more First, let’s break down the types of cars on the market today: Full Hybrids: Vehicles considered “full hybrid” are able to run on one or both of their motors simultaneously. The primary source of power is from the gasoline engine, with the electric motor providing additional power; the electric motor or battery recharges via the use of the gasoline engine.  These vehicles tend to have larger batteries and more powerful electric motors, and they do cost more than mild hybrid models, but offer better fuel efficiency.  You may also hear this referred to as a “parallel hybrid”.   They do not need to be plugged in; all energy comes from gasoline, but they are low-emission vehicles. Mild Hybrids: Vehicles with this system utilize the electric motor to relieve some of the load of the gasoline powered internal combustion engine via low-output electric motors. The electric motor does not power the vehicle on its own, but does assist in starting the car and braking or slowing down via something called regenerative braking; regenerative braking allows the kinetic energy from slowing down to be converted to electricity and stored in the MHEV’s battery.  They are a good entry point into hybrid vehicle ownership, as they do offer mild fuel economy benefits and a slight decrease in emissions output. They do not need to be plugged in; all energy comes from gasoline, but they are low-emission vehicles. Plug-In Hybrids: Vehicles with plug-in features combine the best elements of traditional internal combustion engines, along with the benefits of electric rechargeable battery motors. Like a full hybrid vehicle, they have both a gasoline and electric motor, with the exception being the onboard battery can also be recharged externally via charging stations or plugging into an at-home power source.  It offers a larger battery and greater all-electric driving range than traditional hybrids, but also relies on gas or diesel fuel. All-Electric: Vehicles with all-electric or battery electric vehicles only have an electric motor instead of internal combustion engines.  The engine draws electricity from a battery which is charged and recharged from an external source.  These vehicles have zero emissions. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles: These alternative electric vehicles are another great choice for zero emission driving, but they are not as widely available as the aforementioned. FCEVs receive their electric energy from a chemical reaction which generates electricity via hydrogen or other source. Internal Combustion Engine: Vehicles with an ICE or IC Engine are heat engines in which the combustion of fuel inside a combustion chamber powers the vehicle’s engine.  These are the most common form of heat engines and can be found in many forms of transportation such as personal vehicles, boats, trains, and even airplanes.  They rely on the chemical reaction to turn that fuel into mechanical energy power. The US Government aims to plan phasing out sale of these internal combustion fuel powered engine vehicles by 2035. What type of vehicle best suits my needs? Since all-electric vehicles are still newcomers to the market, they generally have a little higher price point up front compared to hybrid or gasoline model vehicles.  However, some vehicles may be eligible for local and federal tax incentives through special programs and grants, which may help offset the overall cost.  Since EVs do not have gas engines, you will save in maintenance costs such as regular fueling and oil changes, and the overall maintenance is less than a hybrid. EV vehicles can be charged at any of the 60,000+ various electric charging stations across the country, but can also be recharged overnight using your own home electricity. While battery range is improving and many are 300+ miles per charge, some models may not yet have the same driving range mileage as their hybrid or gasoline engine counterparts just yet; others may match or exceed their traditional engine competitors.  Repair costs for electric vehicles may be a little higher, and they require a specific skillset and safety training that not all mechanics may not have experiences working on/ Hybrid vehicles are a wonderful middle ground between gasoline ICE vehicles and EVs.  Hybrids have a fantastic fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and refueling at gas stations is more common and accessible right now than electric-only charging stations.  The annual fuel costs for hybrids area little higher than electric-charging prices, depending on the price of gas.  Hybrids can also travel hundreds of miles without refueling, and most models can go longer between oil changes than traditional gasoline engines.  Plug-in hybrids offer additional features such as utilizing their battery power instead of fuel for shorter trips, which may save you money in the long run.  Plug-in hybrids may cost more than their traditional gasoline counterparts, but many PHEVs are also eligible for similar tax rebates as EVs. Repairs and maintenance will be a little less than gasoline-only engine vehicles, but some require specialized mechanics. Gasoline combustion engine cars are currently priced a fair bit lower than their EV and Hybrid/PHEV counterparts.  They offer convenience of being able to easily find a fuel station or mechanic when you need service, but they have overall higher maintenance and operating costs.  The downside is that by 2035, the US government hopes to stop the sale of gasoline powered engines; that means your next vehicle will have to be an alternative fuel option; some states are already setting a limitation on this in the near future. These are also the least “green” vehicles on the market, as they have high emissions and more waste. Still not sure which type of vehicle is right for you? Here at Classic, we look forward to sharing our passion for greener, cleaner futures with our clients and arming them with the knowledge to choose the perfect car.  Feel free to stop by our dealership and ask our trusted sales staff for more information and insights. We’ll get you behind the wheel of the latest and greatest in driving technology, and will help point you in the right direction to find the car of your dreams!

We really, really love talking about all things automotive, but we also are big fans of professional sporting events.  From the World Cup to the World Series to the Super Bowl, our staff here at Classic relish the chance to celebrate a Big Game Day with our favorite snacks, appetizers, and tailgating classics. Today, we’re sharing our personal hosting hacks for making sure your Super Bowl party is a huge success.  You’ll be scoring points left and right with guests, and it's sure to culminate in a big victory as memorable as the game itself!  So what are you waiting for? Spruce up your hosting skills with our helpful tips on today’s blog. more Tip #1: Shop ahead of time! We know the big game is only a few days away, but we highly recommend getting your shopping done ASAP.  Make a list of your must-haves and consider taking a trip to the grocery store this evening or tomorrow. You’ll save yourself a lot of time by avoiding the game-day crowds and last minute shoppers. Tip #2: Ask your guests to bring their favorite beverage and mixer to add to your Party Bar! It’s always nice to provide the basic party drinks, but it’s hard to please everyone! By asking your guests to bring a drink of their choice, you’ll ensure that no one is left out of the party.  Guests will be able to customize their drinks to their personal preferences, and you can spend your time concentrating on other things.  Plus, folks who do not wish to partake in alcoholic beverages won’t have to worry about what’s available. Tip #3: Set up your food station out of TV and screen sightlines. It’s no secret that there are plenty of guests who attend superbowl parties for the incredible snacks, and we love that energy!  But for those who are interested in the game itself, snackers who get in the way of spectating can be very frustrating.  Set up a snack-station a little off to the side so that guests can help themselves while keeping “the end zone open” so to speak. Tip #4: Set up a utensils and to-go box station on a separate table. Save your energy for socializing by making sure the cups, plates, utensils, napkins, paper towels, and boxes for leftovers are laid out in an accessible manner on their own table. Keep all sides of the table open for easy access so guests can grab what they need without blocking the flow of traffic! Tip #5: Keep things simple and easy with serve-yourself boards and an appetizer table. If you scroll through Pinterest or TikTok, you’ll see lots of options for charcuterie and butter boards and other large serving tray options. It’s a great way to let guests customize their food to their liking and dietary needs, while also cutting down on the cooking and prep time for hosts!  If you’d like to offer your guests further customization options, set out little bowls of toppings or mix-ins next to your large serving boards and make sure multiple scoops, spoons, and dip spreaders are available for easy access. **We recommend placing the boards in the center of your table, and duplicating the accouterments and mix-ins on either side so the self-serve is more efficient and smooth and there’s less waiting. It also keeps guests out of the kitchen and fed while you’re grilling meats and simmering that chili! Here are some of our favorite game-day recipes that feed a crowd: The Guacamole Snack Board The Guacamole Board with Mix-Ins Healthy Game Day Charcuterie Board BBQ Charcuterie Board Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites Easy Baked Cheese Burger Sliders Chili for a Crowd Vegan 7-layer Dip Football Game Day Dessert Board Sweet Dessert Charcuterie Board Instant Pot Ribs BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches with Avocado Slaw Philly Cheese Steak Bread Bowl Soup Taylor Swift Inspired Mocktails

Navigating the financial pros and cons of buying or leasing can be a little overwhelming.  The choice is a very personal decision, but we’ll help take out some of the mystery between both options!  While we can’t make the choice for you, we hope that you’ll feel confident enough to make the right choice for your wallet and personal needs after reading our post. more Let’s break down some of the important points to consider when leasing or buying. Things to Consider about Leasing: Essentially, this is a “rental”; the leasing company holds the title and you have no ownership of the vehicle Leasing generally offers lower monthly payments, lower up-front costs like down payments, and shorter loan terms (generally an average of 36 mos); the longer the lease term, the higher the monthly payment Your car will always have the latest technology every few years Leasing companies set limitations on mileage, wear and tear, and condition that must be followed or the vehicle can be repossessed; it is important to give a reasonable estimate of how many miles you expect to drive, because over-mileage numbers may assessed a fee Your monthly payments are calculated based on the depreciation of the vehicle (based on usage, wear and tear, and age) by subtracting the estimated residual value (the expected value at the time of lease ending) from the total value of car, and your monthly payment is based on the depreciation value during your lease terms; factors such as the make/model, age, mileage, and market demand impact the depreciation rate Leases are generally considered “Closed end leases” where the depreciation value is determined at the start of the lease, allowing you to have a better idea of what the car will be worth if you wish to buy it at the end of your lease term Lease terms usually give you a warranty (provided you stay within the limitations and terms of agreement) to cover the car for the whole term of the lease and may also include basic maintenance and service costs as part o the plan At the end of the term, you simply return the car to the dealer or buy the car at the end of the lease, without having to worry about the stress of selling or trade-in value Leasing is a constant payment, and as you continue your upgraded lease, payments may continue to go up When you return the car, you may be charged additional fees for damages, mileage overage, excess wear and tear, etc Lower financial strain with lower payments overall, but may be slightly higher total cost to buy out the lease if you wish to keep the vehicle than purchasing it outright Things to consider when deciding to Purchase: Buying a vehicle outright or through a financing option is the common method of acquiring a car; it’s a pretty straightforward process and most people are very familiarized with it; you will pay a lender a set monthly cost with interest rate and tax calculated to be paid off in a specific time frame for full vehicle value (generally 3 to 5 years) The monthly payment cost may be higher than lease terms as you’re paying interest, tax, and full value of vehicle up front You can put down a larger down payment to reduce the monthly payments of the loan You won’t have to turn in the vehicle at the end of your loan term; once you pay the loan off, you own the title of the vehicle outright and there will be no continual contract payments Lender may own the title while you’re paying the loan installments, but unlike a lease, there are no restrictions on how you use your vehicle; you are free to drive any mileage amounts you please, you can modify your vehicle as you see fit, and do not have to stress as much about wear and tear from the road Once you pay off the loan, your monthly payment is done and can be used elsewhere in your finances, or be diverted into your “vehicle repair fund” for later repairs as the vehicle ages Once you own the vehicle, it can be traded in to apply against the value of a new car if your driving needs or lifestyle changes, which reduces the overall cost value of a new vehicle You are not required to trade-in at the dealer you purchased it from, and can opt to privately sell the car yourself  in order to net full value of the sale The longer you own the more  you’ll be spending out of pocket on repairs as the vehicle ages; there may be limited warranties and repair/service package options available in the early stages of the loan, but they usually do not extend past that once your vehicle is paid in full Great for people who put high mileage on their car or enjoy traveling long distances, as you’re in complete control of how much you drive While there’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer to this question, and our list of bullet points is not exhaustive, we’ve covered the basics of both vehicle term options. The biggest things to consider as you decide which option is right for you will be: your financial habits (your monthly budget, how much you can afford to pay up front) and your driving habits (how much you drive.) There are even some wonderful calculators out there, like this one from Edmunds, available to help you compare rates for the make/model and loan term (lease vs buy) to help you get a better picture on the average total costs! And, of course, you can always check with our trusted salespersons and finance department  here at Classic if you still need help navigating vehicle make/model choices and loan options if you have any further questions.