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It’s time for a special bonus edition of our community calendar!  This time, we’re focusing on special 4th of July themed  events in the area this weekend. Catch some patriotic parades, festivals, carnivals, street fairs, and, of course, fireworks! more Waukegan’s annual 4th of July fireworks display will take place at the Waukegan Harbor starting at 9:30PM! Deerfield Family Days starts Monday evening on July 3rd through July 4th.  Enjoy an entire evening packed with family friendly activities such as a carnival, bounce castle and rides, and a life DJ! There’s also a wonderful sensory friendly family play area. There will also be delicious food and drink from local vendors and restaurants.  Fireworks start at dusk!  Head over to Shepherd Park in downtown Deerfield. Starting at 10AM on July 4th, the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the annual 4th of July Parade will be kicking off at Barrington High School and marching its way down mainstreet! Highland Park is hosting its annual community gathering and Fourth of July Parade at 11AM on Tuesday July 4th! On July 4th in Lake Bluff, enjoy th e Fourth of July Pancake Breakfast at the Village Green starting at 7AM until 9:45AM sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Lake Bluff and Lake Forest The July 4th Festival and Fireworks of lake Forest will be kicking off at 5PM at the Deer Path Middle School and running through 10PM. Enjoy live music for an Independence Day Concert and Fireworks Display at 7PM through 10PM at Willow Stream Park in Buffalo Grove IL. The Independence Day Community Picnic takes place at 11:30AM through 1:30PM at Sunset Woods Park in Highland Park. On July 4th at 10 AM in Lake Bluff starting at the Lake Bluff Public Library, come on out for the annual 2023 Fourth of July Parade. The Vernon Hills 4th of July Celebration starts at 9AM at the Century Park Arboretum, followed by a day f illed with family activities, live music by the Big Fun Band sponsored by Vernon Hills Park District, and then a gorgeous display of fireworks at 9:30PM. The July 4th Annual Celebration of Lake Zurich starts from 10AM and runs through 10PM at Paulus Park. On July 3rd and July 4th, head over to Lincolnshire for the Red White and Boom Fourth of July CElebration! July 3rd will take place from 4PM to 9:30PM with a fun afternoon of rides, attractions, entertainment, food and beverage, and much more!  On July 4th head out to watch the Fun Run followed by a festive Parade and fireworks.  The fun on the 4th begins at 7AM and runs through 10PM at Spring Lake Park. Enjoy an afternoon of festivities on July 4th from 10:30AM through 12:30 PM at the Village of Lakemoor Parade in Johnsburg!

We’re back with another great edition of Classic’s Automotive Terminology Decoder!  Today, we’re helping you become an automotive pro by understanding the ins and outs of your vehicle’s emergency lights signals.  When those dashboard lights click on and illuminate, it can be a little bit overwhelming or stressful.  Today, we’re going to take some of the guesswork out of the situation, and help you understand which emergency lights are a critical warning and require immediate service, or whether you’ve got a little bit of wiggle room to wait for an appointment. more Please note that dashboard lights may vary slightly from model to model, or even from year to year.  The symbols below will help guide you through and avoid guesswork, and are standard on most vehicles.  For the most accurate depiction of your make/model’s lights, you can check your vehicle’s instruction manual from the manufacturer. The Engine Temperature Warning Light On your vehicle this may look like a thermometer with wavy lines below it or simply  the word TEMP in all caps.  Either way, this is one of the major lights you do not want to ignore. This is a sign that your engine is experiencing a serious problem and is overheating. The best thing to do is pull over as soon as you can, and turn off the engine.  You will want to pull over and request emergency roadside assistance and have it towed to the nearest or local service center. The Oil Pressure/Oil Level Light This will look like a little can of oil with a droplet or simply the word OIL in all caps.  When this light is on, it means that your vehicle’s oil is dangerously low. This could signify that you’ve forgotten an oil change or top off, or it may indicate a serious leak in oil. Your vehicle could be damaged significantly if you continue to drive it in this condition. Your best option is to pull over and check the engine oil levels. You’ll want to call roadside assistance and have it towed to the nearest or local service center. The Check Engine Light This is the most notorious light on your dashboard, and chances are you’ve experienced it at least once if not more in your lifetime if you’ve driven an older vehicle or have not maintained your regular tune-ups and service calls.  This symbol looks like a miniature car engine, or may just be the word ENGINE in all caps.  This indicates that your vehicle’s on board computer system has received an error code, also known as a Diagnostic Trouble code or DTC.  Your local mechanic will be able to read the code using a special piece of equipment to find out what triggered the light.  They’re not always emergency alerts, but it’s best that you do bring your vehicle ASAP to ensure that it is not a catastrophic issue; the sooner you bring it in, the less likely you are to continue to do more costly damage to your vehicle. Brake System Warning Lights Usually this dash light indicates that you’ve accidentally left your parking brake engaged.  However, if the light is still illuminated when the parking brake has been disengaged, you’ll want to bring the car in for an inspection at your local mechanic. This may indicate a serious problem in your vehicle’s brakes system, and that is a vital repair as it’s dangerous to drive with faulty or damaged brakes and reduces your ability to avoid accidents.  It may indicate that you are experiencing hydraulic loss, low brake fluid in the master cylinder, an issue with the ABS, new brake pads, or parking brake adjustment among other things. Now that we’ve got the vital information out of the way, check out this really helpful video that breaks down every single warning light on your dashboard:

It’s International Mud Day, and what better way to get in touch with your wild side than off-roading and ATV adventures!  Today’s blog is all about excitement and exploration as we take a look at great trails across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana that are built just for adventure and thrill seekers!  Some of these destinations are a distance away, but they’ll make a perfect road trip for you and some friends. more And, of course, you’re also going to need to choose a great trailer for transporting your ATV to your adventure destinations, so we’re starting our post off with some great advice on how to select the perfect one for your needs. Hitch the trailer up to your new car from Classic Auto Group and take this show on the road, whether you’re offroading in your Truck or SUV or hitting the trails on your dirtbike, ATV, or motorcycle Decide how many ATVs you’ll be transporting. A single-axle, open landscape trailer is perfect for single ATVs or small machinery like mowers, etc, and generally measure in at about 5ftx8ft.  Most of these have a ramp in the rear that folds down, and are lightweight enough to be pulled by small pick-ups and SUVs.  If you need to haul 2-3 ATVs at a time, a larger 12ft-14ft, side load trailer will get the job done; the removable ramps for this style will attach to the sides. You can also opt for a 12-14ft single axle landscape trailer with both rear ramp and side removable ramps.  It is also able to haul larger machinery as well for dual purpose options like small garden tractors or ride-on mowers. Explore your options for enclosed trailers or open trailers. Each of these styles has their own benefits. ATVs and UTVs are different heights, and you’ll need to choose a trailer that’s most appropriate for your off road vehicle’s height, width, and weight.  If you’re looking for something that doubles as a small garage while storing your ATVs/UTVs while away or at home, then an enclosed trailer is more suited to your needs. Check the max towing capacity of your vehicle. Make sure that the towing capacity of your truck, SUV, or crossover can withstand the trailer and ATV weight for your needs.  Do not exceed the max capacity or you’ll risk damaging your vehicle and your trailer with ATVs on it! And remember to properly load your ATVs onto the trailer and connect the trailer to your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s specifications.  Here’s some helpful information and pointers on how to load and unload the ATV from your trailer. Great Trails for ATVs, Off Roading, and Rally Racing: Des Plaines River Trail in Libertyville, IL - 10 miles from Classic Auto Group Grants Wood Preserve in Ingleside, IL - 15 miles from Classic Auto Group Lakewood Preserve in Wauconda, IL - 18 miles from Classic Auto Group River Road Rally Park in McHenry, IL - 25 miles from Classic Auto Group Richard Bong State Recreation Center in Kansasville, WI - 32 miles from Classic Auto Group Rocky Glen OHV Park in Rockford, IL - 100 miles from Classic Auto Group Fox Valley Off Road in Ottawa, IL - 105 miles from Classic Auto Group The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off-Road Park in Marseilles, IL - 110 miles from Classic Auto Group South Wayne ATV Park in South Wayne, WI - 127 miles from Classic Auto Group Cheese Country Trail at Mineral Point WI - 161 miles from Classic Auto Group Riverview ATV Park in Kewaunee, WI - 170 miles from Classic Auto Group South Fork Dirt Riders in Taylorville, IL - 250 miles from Classic Auto Group Brushy Ridge Motosports in Browning, IL - 255 miles from Classic Auto Group Sandhill Wildlife Area Scenic Drive - 226 miles from Classic Auto Group Redbird State Recreation Area in Duggar, IN - 266 miles from Classic Auto Group Coyote ATV Trails in Coulterville, IL - 360 miles from Classic Auto Group Little Egypt Off Road Motorcycle Club in Marion, IL - 370 miles from Classic Auto Group

Today we’re bringing back our popular vacation guide to St. Louis, Missouri!  This summer, we’re adding some great new stop-offs as well as comfy and cozy hotels and family-friendly resorts. Let’s start off with lodgings, followed up by some great recommendations for eateries, and some must-see destinations for fun, entertainment, and educational history! more Three Great Vacation Destination Lodgings for Your Summer Vacation First up, we’re taking a look at the nearby town of Osage Beach and the Sunset Beach Resort. Nestled at the edge of the woods on the shores of Lake of the Ozards is this cozy, low-key resort.  It’s a few miles away from the Sycamore Golf Club as well as Lake of the Ozarks State Park.  There are beautiful docks and boat slips that are perfect for fishing, or you can opt to rent a boat for extra fun.  There’s a beautiful well-groomed beach and swimming area to enjoy water games and more, but if a dip in the lake is not your thing, there’s a comfortable swimming pool as well!  The cabins are cozy, with many modern amenities!  Perfect for a weekend getaway with your romantic partner, or book a large one for your family and friends. Another gorgeous option with lakefront views of Lake of the Ozarks is Margaritaville Resort! This is a watersports lover’s paradise! With more than 400 acres of recreational options, guests can enjoy a full-service marina, cruises on the lake, sunset dinners on the terrace, an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. It’s also a stone’s throw away from the Mansfield Forest State Wildl ife Management Area The St. Louis Union Station Hotel by Hilton has been a staple of the St. Louis area since 1894.  It features historic architecture and stunning decor in the Grand Hall!  It’s just blocks away from the cultural center of downtown, minutes away from top entertainment destinations, live music, historic museums, art galleries, and much more!  It’s also host of an incredible 3D light show featuring flames and a 100-foot waterfall!  For the athletic folks, you’ll enjoy the on-site fitness center and seasonal outdoor pool!  As an added bonus, they also offer pet-friendly rooms! Amazing Eateries You just Have To Try in St. Louis! Fozzie’s Sandwich Emporium is a small indie restaurant that makes some of the area’s best sandwiches and burgers!  They also have wonderful vegetarian and vegan options.  You can grab an order for pick-up (in person or curbside) or stop-in for a bite. Seedz Cafe is great for breakfasts, lunches, and brunches especially. This is 100% plant-based restaurant, and perfect for vegans and vegetarians, but delicious enough even the “carnivores” won’t be upset about it! This fun, fresh establishment serves creative food with options for dips, salads, smoothies, and grab some coffee and tea next door at Provisions. Boardwalk Waffles serves up delicious seaside inspired treats and boardwalk eats such as waffles and ice cream, “wachos”, waffle bowls, waffle ice cream sandwiches, and delicious hand blended milkshakes.  They’ve also got a roving Food Truck that makes appearances at Festivals, Street Fairs, concerts, and more so keep your eyes peeled! The Cate Zone is one-of-a-kind and worth the wait and lines.  This Chinese cafe gets creative with the traditional favorites of down-home Chinese cooking.  Gone are the “americanized” saucy, sugary knock-offs.  On this menu, you’ll find a spin on authentic flavors in the form of Hot Crisp Fish with spicy chilis and tender battered fried fish, juicy lamb skewers, honey crisp sweet potatoes, tingly-spicy mala soup, and Korean Cold Noodle.  Curious? We can’t blame you! It’s a surefire hit for a reason, so what are you waiting for? Pizza Champ is becoming one of the hottest spots for a slice of ‘za in the STL area.  The pizza dough is legendary here, and sets it a cut above the rest in local pizza joints.  It’s a small, fast-casual spot serving up a signature sourdough pizza crust with a puffy,crispy edge and soft doughy center, complemented by a zesty, zingy sauce. Even better, so many of the restaurants offerings are made in house! From the creamy ricotta to the top-notch sauce to the delicious sausage, it’s all handcrafted on site, and what can’t be made in-house is curated and deftly sourced by the chef himself. Balkan Treat Box is a foodie paradise!  This Turkish and Croatian inspired restaurant features Balkan region favorites served up on its wood-fired pide, a delicious flatbread like nothing else! As an added bonus, most of the menu items can be amended to suit vegans and vegetarians alike!  Everything is made right to order, so it’s an unparalleled experience for your tastebuds.  The owners hail from Bosnia, and wanted to feature a broad range of Balkan regional favorites including cabbage salad, the “balkan burger”, homemade beef sausage, and other delicious street food eats! Onwards and Upwards to Adventure: Must-See Destinations in STL The City Museum is unmatched in ingenuity and artistic creativity, consisting of four incredible floors of unique art and architecture.  Perfect fun for the whole entire family,  no matter how old you are!  Explore the museum’s many tunnels, the cave system, more than 30 slides, an outdoor climbing space, exhibits made from repurposed and recycled materials, the Museum of Mayhem Mirth and Mystery, a circus, a rooftop Ferris Wheel, and a gravity-defying bus which hangs off the roof.  It’s unparalleled entertainment, and hard to describe, so you’ll have to see it for yourself! Grant’s Farm has been open to the public with free admission for more than 60 years. Once the home of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, it’s now owned by the Busch Family and operated as a 280+ acre historic farm and landmark.  You can enjoy a historic home tour, a visit with the animals, take aride around the park on the Tram, enjoy a spin on the carousel, and so much more!  It’s a must-see destination. Laclede’s Landing Wax Museum is a charming, kitschy venue located in an 1880s warehouse converted to an art museum.  For just $10 a person you can observe and take pictures with more than 200 lifelike wax sculptures of celebrities, characters, and important historical figures. The Magic House is perfect for families, and especially for those with younger children.  This not-for-profit museum is located in Kirkwood just outside the St Louis city limits.  Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, explore STEAM activities, and even a miniature village where they can enjoy some play-acting in different careers and hobbies.  PBS has also just opened an exhibit centering around “Molly of Denali” where you can learn about Alaska and Alaskan Native life! Citygarden Sculpture Park will be perfect to explore on a bright sunny day, and a fun way to pass the time without breaking the bank.  This nearly 3 acre sculpture garden is open to the public and full of quirky, unusual sculptures, beautiful water features, and expertly landscaped grounds. It's a photo op that will be one for the memory books, so be sure to snap lots of pics! The National Museum of Transportation houses one of the largest and most diverse collections of transportation vehicles in the world, with over 190 exhibits!  Set just outside of the city in Kirkwood, this 42 acre facility features iconic cars, vehicles, planes, trolleys, trains and so much more.  It’s a larger than life stop-off for the gearheads and history nerds. Laumeier Sculpture Park is another budget friendly option with free admission and plenty of outdoor activities and interesting things to see.  Another great attraction to explore in Kirkwood, it’s home to more than 70 large-scale outdoor sculptures, and is a gorgeous 105 acre open-air museum.  It’s also home to several special events each year, including the Laumeier Art Fair! The Pulitzer Arts Foundation provides special exhibitions and public programs to connect the public with art history and contemporary artwork and architecture.  It’s free to explore and housed in a building designed by internationally recognized architect Tadao Ando.  And it’s only 15 minutes west of the illustrious St Louis Arch. The Chess Hall of Fame is a nonprofit facility highlighting the history, art, and culture of this beloved game.  It’s purpose is to highlight the historical significance of chess, and its impact on arts and culture.  You’ll find monthly events catered to adults such as their Monthly music series, Sip & Sketch classes, Composer Spotlight Series, and more.  Families will enjoy special Toddler Tuesdays and Saturday Family Day geared just towards kids each week, and unique shows and programs perfect for all ages including the novice through expert.

Kia America was awarded the most J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study Awards for a Brand in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS).  This annual report was compiled from more than 93,000 completed surveys across 33 brands, 200 vehicle models, and 28 different segments.  Kia owners reported the least quality issues during the first 90 days/3 months of ownership across four vehicle segments: Compact Car, Midsize Premium Car, Minivan, and Small Car. more Four fantastic Kia vehicles received distinguished honors:  The Kia Rio took home the honors in the Small Car category; the Kia Forte took top honors in the Compact Car category; the Kia Stinger took home the prize for best Midsize Premium Car; the Kia Carnival swept the competition in the Minivan category.  The Kia Forte’s win for Compact Car was the fifth consecutive win for Kia, making it the only brand to earn a J.D. Power Award in its segment for five straight years running! “With multiple Kia models topping their IQS segments year after year, these awards illustrate Kia’s deep-rooted and long-term commitment to quality, reliability and durability for every vehicle we build,” said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia North America and Kia America. “We’re incredibly proud of seeing yet another outstanding year of achievement in J.D. Power’s highly respected Initial Quality Study.”

Father’s Day is here! And what could be more classic than spending the day out in the boat, enjoying the pristine waters and sunshine, and casting a line for the catch of the day.  Today, we’re sharing our picks for great fishing spots in the Waukegan, Illinois area and beyond.  Got a spot that’s not on our list? Or perhaps have a hot tip for netting the biggest fish? We’d love to hear from you! Drop us a line in the comments and share your thoughts with our readers and social media friends. more Great Fishing Spots Near Waukegan Mallard Lake Vulcan Lakes (Three Oaks REcreational Area) Independence Grove Busse Lake and Busse Woods Reservoir Skokie Lagoons Turnberry Wetlands Indian Creek Lily Lake Lake in the Hills Gages Lake Lake Arlington West Fork North Branch Chicago River Lake Glenview Lake Zurich River Park Dam Slough Lake Bangs Lake Eagle Lake Des Plaines River Pell Lake Diamond Lake Fishing Gear Storage for Your Car The River Quiver Fly Rod Roof Rack comes in several sizes and colors for your fishing needs priced between $480 and $840. The Thule Rodvault Fly Fishing Rod Carrier can help you carry your gear with a 2-rod or 4-rod option; up to $649 for the largest option. The YAKIMA ReelDeal Rooftop Fishing Rod Moun t can hold up to 8 fully-rigged rods on your roof rack, leaving the interior free to pack up your favourite snacks and camping gear, and all of your best pals, too! The Brocraft Aluminum Clamp Rod Holder holds up to 4 rods and reels and can be placed vertically or horizontally for more space as needed. The Hosmide Car Fly Fishing Rod Holder is perfect for keeping your rods and reels inside your vehicle and it’s certainly budget friendly!  Holds up to 5 and is adjustable from 38 inches to 52 inches depending on your need.  Great for those using SUVs, Vans, and Station Wagon model vehicles. The LL Bean Truck Seat Fishing Organizer is the perfect option for storing all your rods, reels, fly and tackle accessories with convenient pockets and zipper pouches so everything is easy to reach and find in seconds. YakGear’s Angler Crate Kit is perfect to store your essentials without too big of a footprint in your cargo space.  Its compact 13”x13” inch design and convenient accessory pouch are perfect for squeezing into small spaces next to gear bags and more. The YETI Side Mounted Fishing Tackle Unit is perfect for boating, beach days, camping, and more.  It’s perfectly designed to mount to the side of your YETI cooler, and it’s fully portable!

Here at Classic, we fully believe in supporting our community and our customers beyond the sale of a car.  That’s why we’re giving special focus to blogging about important content for maintaining your vehicle, driver safety, and other fun tips and tricks!  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. more 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. Prefer to learn by video? We get it!  Here’s a helpful video from ChrisFix on YouTube! Flying solo on your road trip or traveling to offgrid or remote places? We’ve got you covered! Stay prepared to jump start your car without the help of another driver with these helpful portable battery charging devices. The NEXPOW 2000A Peak Car Jump Starter with USB Quick Charge device is a great backpack/bag friendly portable charger.  Great for those who wish to travel light or don’t want their safety gear to take up a large footprint.  Comes in two color options: Grey, available for $59.49 at the time of publication; Black, available for $79.99 at the time of publication. Both are regularly about $99.99. The Cen-Tech 630 Peak Amp Portable Jump Starter and power Pack with 250 PSI Air Compressor is a compact, dual purpose machine.  Currently on sale at the time of publication for $74.99 (regularly $89.99.) It's a great option for the road warrior to keep on hand. It can recharge a vehicle battery as well as inflating your tires, making it a quick and painless process to get back on the road in no time flat. The CRAFTSMAN CMXCESM263 1000A 12V Lithium Jump Starter offers 25 jumps per charge, portable USB Power, an LED Area Light, and is another great small footprint device for backpacking and cargo space saving options. Currently available for $163.89 on Amazon at the time of publication. For the brand loyalists, we have a great DEWALT option in the DXAEJ14 Digital Portable Power Station Jump Starter and Battery Booster with 120 PSI Digital Air Compressor. It’s available on Amazon for $159.00, or opt for the additional package with a Power Inverter 140W for $195.46 at the time of publication.

It’s National Dump the pump day! National Dump the Pump Day exists to help commuters and drivers reconsider the use of fossil fuel vehicles, spreads awareness on the depletion of natural resources such as fossil fuels, and encourages consumers to consider public transportation and alternative fuel vehicles.  We understand that not everyone has the privilege or ability to take advantage of mass transit or to walk, bike, or skate to their jobs, so we’re going to also explore some greener options in automobiles! If you stop by our dealership, our expert sales staff at our dealership would be delighted to help you discover which option is best for you and your family: Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, All-Electric. To kickstart your green living journey, we’re going to use today’s blog to help highlight some of the differences between Hybrid versus Electric versus Plug-In Hybrid vehicles, and learn a little bit about alternatives to fossil fuel only cars. Let’s hit the road and explore our options! more Traditional Hybrid Vehicles are powered by a combination of a traditional internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors, which pull from stored energy in an array of batteries.  They rely on traditional gasoline engines to keep the batteries charged while you’re driving. Plug-In Hybrids have larger batteries charged with a 120-volt or 240-volt outlet installed in your home or in a publicly accessible charging station.  The Plug-In Hybrid will rely on depleting the stored battery charges, and once depleted will revert to using the gasoline engine. All-Electric or Battery Electric Vehicles have an electric motor in place of an internal combustion engine.  They’re propelled by a system of one or more electric motors powered by stored energy from battery banks; they have zero exhaust emissions, don’t use gasoline, and can be recharged at home or at publicly accessible charging stations. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles are another great choice, but they are not as widely available as the aforementioned models. FCEVs receive their electric energy from a chemical reaction which generates electricity via hydrogen or other source. Kia is proud to offer a wide range of options in hybrid and electric vehicles. There’s something for everyone and suited to all driving styles! The Kia Sorento Hybrid offers an impressive 655 miles of range, 37 mpg combined, and 227HP. It comes standard with 3-row seating and 2nd row captains chairs, and offers a plug-in hybrid model option.  The Hybrid EX model has available all-wheel drive, and innovative technology and safety features. The Kia Niro Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 108 MPGe, 54MPG HWY and a 33-mile all-electric driving range. You may also opt for the Niro Plug-in Hybrid.  The Niro EV has a 253-mile driving range and fast-charge capabilities. It offers crossover versatility with modern hybrid and electric amenities such as wireless phone charging and voice recognition. The Kia EV6’s GT edition has been awarded the 2023 World Car Awards winner as 2023 World Performance Car!  The EV6 GT-Line offers an EPA estimated range of 310 miles and has fast-charge capabilities to reach from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes. It also boasts 320HP and 440 lb-ft of torque on the Wind and GT-Line AWD models. The Kia Sportage Plug-In Hybrid model offers an EPA Estimated combined 84MPGe and an estimated all-electric range of 34 miles with an impressive 261HP! It also comes in a regular hybrid model with 227 horsepower and 38-43 MPG fuel economy.

If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you understand first hand that your mind is going a mile a minute as you process the shock of the situation.  It can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve sustained any injuries or are worried about passengers.  It’s certainly not easy to clear your head and gather your thoughts to remember what information you need to exchange or gather.  That’s why we’re here to help with a handy checklist of information that you can keep in your vehicle for any future incidents to help make sure you take proper steps to protect yourself and gather pertinent  information. (And of course, if you’ve never been involved in a car accident,that’s fantastic news!  We hope that you continue to have a safe driving experience and avoid accidents in your future as well, but please do print this out and keep it on hand just in case!) more Always keep an emergency supply bag/box in your vehicle in case of emergencies or accidents: Bottled Water Basic First Aid Kit Flashlights Blankets Jumper Cables Disposable Camera Note Pad and Pen/Pencil Always make sure you have the following items in your glove compartment or other safe space in your vehicle: Updated license and registration Copies of your insurance ID cards Emergency contact information of friends/family Things to keep in mind: Don’t post to social media or discuss the accident with anyone other than an attorney or your insurance company representative. Keep in Touch with your insurance company and keep clear, concise records of all communication with them, the other party’s insurance, medical doctors, etc. Get a physical copy of the police/accident report. Keep track of all expenses and keep copies of all receipts for related expenses. Keep track of all medical treatments and request clear copies of records. Consider hiring an attorney, or requesting assistance through your car insurance company. What to do if you’ve unfortunately been in an accident or collision with another vehicle: Stop your vehicle, turn on your hazards, and turn off your engine. Assess the situation as best you can, and determine if it is safe to exit your vehicle. If the vehicles pose a threat to traffic or other drivers, and it is safe to do so, get your vehicles moved to the side of the road and out of oncoming traffic.   (If/When it is safe to do so, exit the vehicle and take photographs of the situation as best you are able before moving any vehicles; this may be helpful to insurance/law enforcement’s ability to assess cause/fault.)  Do your best not to block traffic or stand in the road. Get yourselves to safety if you are unable to move the vehicles; find a safe space in the median, the shoulder, or other safe distance from oncoming traffic or dangerously damaged vehicles. Contact 9-1-1 or local law enforcement and let them know that you have been in an accident.  The operator or local police will arrange for an ambulance and officer to arrive on-site and assess all parties. Stay calm, avoid getting into arguments, and be sure to have a clear exchange of information with the other party/parties involved.  Make sure to get their contact and insurance information.  Be sure to get the following: Their name, age, address, phone number, work number/employer info if possible Car insurance company and policy number and policy expiration date License plate number for the driver/owner of each vehicle Thoroughly document the situation (for use with your personal injury lawyer and insurance claims agent): Note the date, time, and weather at the time of the incident. Take photos with your cell phone or camera. Create a simple diagram of the incident and the vehicles involved and direction of travel. Document the condition of each car Document any injuries to all involved persons/pets and note if the person is a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or member of the other party Gather names and contact information of any potential witnesses (bystanders, other drivers, etc.) who will be able to recount or corroborate the events and testimony of those involved. DO NOT admit fault or volunteer information unless law enforcement is questioning you; any comments you make may be used against you during your claim, case, or potential trial. Request medical assessment and seek medical help. If you feel you have been seriously injured on site, request transport to a hospital or local emergency room. If you do not feel immediate transport is required, call and schedule a doctor’s appointment ASAP and let them know you’ve been in an accident so they can log your physical condition and do a thorough physical examination for your records. Sometimes pain can be latent, and set in a few hours/days later; making sure to log medical and physical condition can be helpful during coverage/litigation. File an accident report, and pick up a copy at the police station or via the Department of Motor Vehicles website.  Report the accident to your insurance company, even if you think the other driver is at fault.  If your report is not filed, you may experience issues and struggles during insurance claims or other incident related filings.  Many insurance providers have an app that you can download and report directly from the scene of the accident and immediately upload your documentation. This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only, and does not substitute for legal advice or official recommendations. Please consult your attorney and/or insurance company for specifics.

We know you’ve been following our tips, tricks, and pointers for maintaining your vehicle, but we also know that accidents and malfunctions still happen. Sometimes things occur that are out of our control, so it’s helpful to be prepared for just about any situation. Today, we’re going to share a helpful guide on what to do if, despite your best efforts, you encounter an issue with your vehicle’s engine overheating. Your engine overheating can be a bit of an alarming occurrence, but there’s some very easy steps you can take to prevent permanent damage to an overheated engine. more Know before you go!  Read our thorough guide to learn the signs, what each of them means, and how to handle yourself and keep cool under pressure. What are  the initial signs and hints that a problem is brewing under the hood: You notice what appears to be “steam” or smoke coming out from under the hood. The check engine light or “temperature” light on the instrument panel is illuminated. You notice a sweet aroma from the engine area, which may indicate a leak in the coolant/antifreeze. The engine temperature gauge is spiking into the red or hits “H” for Hot. What to do once you’ve noticed your engine is overheating: Put your hazards on to indicate to drivers around you that you are experiencing an issue and may be driving slower; it will keep you safer on the road than driving without. Turn off your AC, open your windows, and turn on the Heat. Yes, you read that right!  Using the AC will put an additional strain on your overheated engine, but putting on the heat will draw the hot air away from and reduce the load on the engine. Find a place to pull over as soon as you can, and shut off your engine. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes.  You can check how it’s going with the temperature gauge on your instrument cluster. If you have assessed the situation and are sure that there are no leaks, you can top off the coolant in the radiator and reservoir.  You may allow your vehicle to idle for a little while to ensure that it does not spike to “H” or illuminate the temperature gauge before attempting to drive it to safety. Use your phone to call roadside assistance, a local towing company, or a friend who can help tow your vehicle to the nearest mechanic. If you are unable to reach anyone due to poor signal, or need to get your car to a better spot for tow truck access, you can carefully restart your engine and slowly drive it to a safer destination as long as you are keeping your eye on the temperature gauge and keeping it in the lower range; if it spikes, pull over, turn the car off and wait another 15 minutes. Things you should NEVER DO if you notice your vehicle is overheating: DO NOT continue on to your destination; continuing to drive your vehicle in this state can risk permanent engine damage, increases risk of fire, and can lead to deadly accidents. DO NOT open the hood immediately after pulling over. The engine is at extremely high temperatures, and you are risking serious burns and injury.  Wait until the temperature gauge is in normal or cooler temperatures to examine the situation under the hood. DO NOT delay scheduling a service call or maintenance appointment. The longer you drive your car in this condition, the more permanent damage and related issues you’re causing. It won’t fix itself or resolve the problem without a trusted mechanic’s diagnosis and service. DO NOT add cold water to the radiator, as this may cause the engine to crack!  If you do add any water, it should be room temperature to avoid further damage. What are the best practices to prevent engine overheating and maintain your engine: Check your coolant levels regularly.  Open the hood and look for the radiator reservoir (usually white, and clearly marked with “coolant” or “antifreeze” or similar symbols/phrasing.)  You will note a level on the side of the reservoir; you want the level to be between “low” and “full”, and if not be sure to top it off until it is!  Use a funnel to help you neatly fill the reservoir. If you notice that the coolant level reads low, allow the engine to cool down and then add more coolant. Consult your vehicle manufacturer manual for proper coolant types. Have your trusted mechanic or service technician drain, flush, and dispose of old radiator fluid. They’ll then replace it with fresh fluid. Ask your mechanic or technician to perform an inspection of the coolant system and its seals, gaskets, and hoses, and replace anything that appears to be worn or broken. Perform regular oil changes and maintain a proper oil level at all times, and never drive your vehicle when it’s got low or sludgy oil. Bring it in to your mechanic for service if you do not wish to perform an oil change yourself.

Today Is National Drive-In Movie Day! Here’s some great drive-in theatres in the area to check out and make a stop off on your next road trip. It will be a memorable experience to last a lifetime!  We’ve included picks from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana, so you can find one wherever the road may take you! more The Milky Way Drive-In in Milwaukee, WI Chi-town Futbol and Movies in Chicago, IL McHenry Indoor/Outdoor Theater in McHenry (formerly the Skyline Drive-In) Blue Moonlight Drive-In Theater in Galesburg, IL Harvest Moon Drive-In Theatre in Gibson City, IL The Chicago Drive-In in Bridgeview, IL The Cascade Drive-In in West Chicago, IL Midway Drive-In, Sterling, IL Route 66 Drive-In Theater Hi-Way 18 Outdoor Theatre in Jefferson, WI 49er Drive-In Theatre in Valparaiso, IN Tibs Drive-In in Indianapolis,IN Route 34 Drive-In in Earlville, IL Melody Drive-In in Knox, IN Skyview Drive-In in Litchfield, IL Starlite Drive-In in Bloomington, IN Wondering what to bring along for your guests? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a breakdown of suggested items to pack for the best drive-in experience from young to old! Going to the drive-in is an exciting experience for little ones, and a unique date night idea for those looking to switch things up a bit.  And we love to keep a little bag of tricks in our trunk to ensure things go swiftly and smoothly no matter what! For Kiddos: Pack an overnight bag with extra clean clothes - one spare outfit per child.  Choose something that’s easy to put on such as PJs or sweatpants or leggings.  For babies or toddlers, consider packing at least two onesies or sleepsuits.  Plan for being out late, and perhaps having some spills or accidents needing a swap. Pack little lunch boxes with juice boxes, baggies of fresh fruits and veggies, and of course plenty of little crackers and munchies to keep them satisfied.  Make sure to include some insulated  water bottles to keep them hydrated. Bring something cuddly and cozy such as a hooded blanket, an easy-to-clean fleece blanket, or a cotton throw. Consider adding some easy outdoor toys such as velcro mitts with a tennis ball, a frisbee, beanbag toss, or similar to play outside a little before the movie starts. A box or two of glowsticks or glow bracelets and little spinning flashlights for kids to play with in the dark, and make it less scary. For Everyone: Soft, comfortable cushions with waterproof material for sitting outside, or even for using in your vehicle for added luxury. A few lap blankets to keep you warm and cozy and comfortable in your car, or to lay across your lap if you’ve opted to sit outdoors. Folding chairs for those who need a change of pace from sitting in the car and want to sit outside. A box filled with your favourite movie theatre snacks, chips, crackers, and other snack packs and candies. A cooler filled with canned beverages and bottled drinks and water, and some fresh fruits or veggies. Or fancy it up with a premade charcuterie tray for a date night twist! Lots of wet wipes, napkins, paper towels, and hand sanitizer (and you might even want to toss a spare roll or two of toilet paper in there in case the bathrooms are less than equipped.) Bring some bug spray in case you leave your windows open or opt for the outdoor seating. Flashlights and LED candles can add a little ambiance and also make it easier to find your way to and from the concessions or bathroom in the dark. Last but not least, a few plastic grocery bags and a trash bag to gather up your garbage at the end of the night or to bag up wet clothing.

Just a few more weeks and Summer will be in full swing. We can’t wait!  It’s time to pack up that beach gear, stuff those suitcases full of breezy outfits, and make your hotel reservations.  But before you hit the road, make sure to get your car ready for all the Summer travel of your dreams with these helpful service tips. more Check your tires. Inspect all of your tires, including the spare/donut if you have one, and check for cuts, bulges, bubbles, or other suspicious damages.  Make sure your tires are properly inflated to pressure recommendations (check inside the door frame, or your manufacturer’s manual), and have them rotated for even wear. Consider switching your winter tires for All-Season or Summer tires.  It is also a great time to purchase a portable tire inflation device for those just in case situations. Inspect the wiper blades and windshield. Inspect the glass and make sure there are no nicks or cracks, and if there are, get the glass replaced before you head out on the road!  Apply a hydrophobic protective coating on the windshield such as Rain-X or similar, to help increase your visibility in rainy and foggy weather.  Replace your wiper blades (check your owner’s manual for proper sizing) and choose the best quality option that you can afford, preferably also with hydrophobic coating on them.  Top off your windshield wiper fluid and carry an extra bottle in your trunk to refill – lots of highway driving means lots of dirt, debris, mud, muck, and even bugs will hit your windshield. Check the brakes. Thoroughly examine and test your brakes, and make sure they are properly serviced about 2 weeks before your big road trip.  If you hear any grinding, squealing, or feel any vibrations, service your brakes immediately.  A professional mechanic will ensure the brake lines, pads, rotors, shoes, and drums are in good condition, and if there are any problems or fluid leaks. Service your AC/Heating and Coolant systems. Have your AC serviced and air vents cleaned, and while you’re there have your mechanic check the radiator and coolant as well.  The AC is going to draw additional power and fuel from your engine. Extended travel means more mileage and wear-and-tear on the engine, and you want to avoid overheating.  However, if your car does start to overheat and you’re in a pinch, turn on the heating system in your car to draw heat away from the engine, and open your windows to keep cool until you can safely pull over and call for roadside assistance. Up your memberships with your vehicle’s roadside assistance plans or similar service such as AAA. Make sure that you’re covered in case of emergency, especially if you’re planning to do some long distance road tripping, or even some car-camping.  These services can save you a lot of aggravation, time, and money in the event of an emergency or accident. Refill your emergency kit and replenish first aid supplies. Always make sure your roadside emergency kit is prepared for warm weather emergencies.  Stock up on space-saving water bottles, instant ice packs, cooling blankets and cooling towels, sunscreen, and other general First Aid supplies.  In the event of an  emergency, you’ll be able to keep cool while you wait for help, as well as you’ll be able to administer basic first aid and stay hydrated!