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February is here and our adrenaline is pumping and our hearts are racing with excitement, because the Chicago Auto Show is just around the corner!  From February 11th through the 20th, you can stop by McCormick Place Convention Center to experience the best, brightest, and most spectacular new advancements in the automotive industry!  We cannot wait to see all the exciting new technologies, concept cars, and incredible vehicles. more (Image from Chicago Auto Show Site) The Chicago Auto Show first opened its doors in 1901, and has grown to become the largest automotive show in North America.  This year, the event is celebrating its 115th year, wow!  You’ll find everything from domestic and import designs to daily drivers to sports cars to experimental and concept cars and more!  You’ll have a chance to get an up-close look at antique and collector vehicles, special events and panels with guests, shop for automotive accessories, view the unique exhibits, take a peek at project cars, and so much more fun in store. More than 1,000 vehicles will be on hand for your enjoyment from 19 manufacturers! Check out these fun recap videos of all the fun attendees had last year at the 2022 Auto Show: See what’s in store for this year’s event with these sneak peeks: What You Need to Know Before You Go: This year’s event runs February 11th through February 19th from 10AM to 10PM, and on February 20th from 10AM to 8PM. We recommend you purchase your tickets in advance, but tickets will be available at the door.  Tickets for the auto show are available online for $10-$15 (priced by age) and children under 3 are free with accompanying paid adult admission.  Group and school discounts are available! For your safety, please be aware that all bags are subject to search by security, and attendees will be selected at random. Scooter and Wheelchair daily rentals are available through Scootaround for your mobility and accessibility needs.  Other mobility devices are allowed, but may be checked by event management or security personnel. And check back here for updates on food and beverage vendors to plan your day. Looking for a specific scheduled event or test drive? We’ve got you covered. Check here for the official event schedule! Where to Stay: The Marriott Marquis Chicago and Hyatt Regency McCormick Place are the official hotel partners for the Chicago Auto Show. Additional hotels include: Chicago South Loop Hotel Congress Plaza Hotel Best Western Grant Park Hotel Le Meridien Essex Chicago The Buckingham Hotel The Jaslin Hotel Villa Dubois Guest House McCormick Place Guest House The Blackstone, Autograph Collection Where to Eat Nearby: The Fine Print Restaurant Third Star Sixes & Eights Savor Chicago Connie’s Pizza Il Culaccino Woven + Bound Restaurant Piezano’s Pizza & Pasta VU Rooftop Bar Chicago Oyster House Mustard Seed Kitchen Apolonia (Image from Chicago Auto Show Website) What we’re excited about seeing from Kia this year: This year Kia will be debuting the 2023 Niro, the 2023 Soul, the 2023 Sportage, and the 2023 Telluride.  We are also excited to view the Kia EV6 576-hp GT, a high-performance EV that can reach 0-60mph in 3.2 seconds!

Today is National Car Insurance Day!  Last month, our Body Shop wrote a great post on how to select and find the right car insurance and get the best coverage.  So for today’s blog, we’re going to share some extra pointers and reminders to expand on their fantastic advice! more More Things to Consider When Selecting an Insurance Plan and Coverage Check your local and state guidelines for required insurance coverages. Some regions and states may legally require specific coverage levels or policy types for residents, while others may have more flexibility in coverage. Get quotes from several different insurance companies before selecting your policy, and compare the benefits, perks, and financials of each. You may get better rates at one company over another for the same level of coverage! Consider shopping around for a new policy every few years to make sure you’re getting the best rates!  You may find better rates at a different insurance provider due to age, vehicle type, location, or even driving habit history. Make a list of your must-haves and additional coverage options that would benefit your driving style. Those who are on the road more often, or who may have significant travel for work, may benefit from additional perks such as Roadside Assistance or Rental Car Reimbursement plans.  Likewise, deselect these add-on options before starting your policy if they do not fit your lifestyle and driving needs; it will save you lots of money for features you’re not using. Explore your options for discounts by payment plan style and/or driving history. An insurer may offer you the choice of whether you’d prefer to do single pay, quarterly pay, or monthly pay options. Some insurance companies offer discounts for single pay or quarterly installments, or additional savings breaks if you’ve set your premiums up to be paid automatically. If you’ve got renters or homeowners insurance, or other vehicle insurance such as boat or motorcycle, you may inquire of your provider about bundling your premiums. Many companies will offer significant savings when you select multiple policies options through their umbrella of coverage plans. What about types of coverage? Let’s take a look at the different types of coverage insurers offer, and which may be required policies for residents of specific states. Types of Coverage and Policies Liability Coverage - This type of coverage pays for both property damage you cause to someone else’s property, as well as any bodily injury or harm caused to others resulting from the accident. This may include hospital bills, medical bills, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage - This coverage protects you from damages due to the other vehicle/driver’s inadequate or lack of coverages. Some drivers operate vehicles without insurance or with less-than-adequate coverage, and this plan will cover many of those gaps. Personal Injury Protection - This type handles your medical/rehabilitation and hospital costs, any work/wage-loss costs, and funeral/burial expenses. This is sometimes referred to as no-fault insurance, as it covers expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Comprehensive and Collision - Comprehensive insurance provides coverage for accidents and events that are outside of your control, including things like weather, theft, or vandalism, etc but it does not cover hitting another vehicle or object, nor wear-and-tear. .  Collision coverage keeps you protected from collisions with another vehicle or object; some drivers choose to opt out of collision if the cost of premiums overshadow the estimated value of their vehicle. (Ex: if your vehicle is used or older and is worth $1500, but your premiums are $1800, you may not wish to carry collision coverage.)  These policies may be required by your lender if you’re leasing a vehicle or your car is on financing plans.

We’ve given plenty of tips and tricks to maintaining your daily driver, but what about your collectibles, antiques, and weekend-only fun cars? If you’re putting those sporty rides into garages until sunnier days arrive, you’ll need to make sure they’re properly prepared for long-term storage.  Today we’ll be sharing our tips and tricks for keeping your collectible vehicles safe and sound. more Make sure your car is thoroughly cleaned both inside and out. You’ll want to vacuum and detail the inside of your car, and treat any leather surfaces with a moisturizing protective spray or polish.   Give your car a good hand washing as well, and apply a nice coat of finishing wax before protecting it with a fabric car cover. Inflate your tires slightly above their current air pressure before storing. Over time a tire will slowly lose air pressure, especially when exposed to change in temperature.  Make sure they’re not inflated over their maximum pressure number so you don’t damage the integrity of the tire. Stabilize your car and prevent rolling by adding wheel chocks or wood block wedges under the wheels. Do not use the parking brake to stabilize the car, as storing with the brake engaged can damage it and make it difficult to disengage when removing from storage. Remove your car’s battery and store it away. Connect your battery to a “trickle charger” or “battery tender” to keep the battery at peak performance but prevent overcharging.  You can also keep it in a warm room of your house to prevent a stored battery from freezing and being damaged. Top up all fluids and ensure that your car has adequate antifreeze.  If you’re storing a car for longer than 3 months, be sure to add a bit of fuel stabilizer to the tank. Ensure that the tank is nearly full, and then add the fuel stabilizer before storing.  Make sure to take your car out for a spin before you place the car into long-term storage, to ensure that all fluids and the fuel stabilizer are cycled through the car’s system. Block up any holes in the garage where small animals may enter. Rodents and other critters love to hibernate and cozy up in cold weather, and your car is the perfect safe environment!  Make a point as well to clear out the trash from the side pockets and floors, and be sure to check for food to avoid any pests or rodents making a home to hibernate. Got any more tips and tricks for storing your collectibles or joy-ride cars? Let us know in the comments!

Every January from the 15th through the 23rd is International Snowmobile Safety Week. Snowmobiling is an exciting and competitive adventure winter sport! Snowmobiles are motorized sleds or scooters, designed for winter weather terrain; the vehicle is steered by skis and propelled by a belt track in the rear.  They can be driven on ice and snow, and travel well on roads, trails, or open terrain.  These winter ready vehicles are the perfect choice for wilderness transportation, recreational racing and tourism, hunting, and even trapping. more In order to be the safest and most responsible snowmobile rider, we have a list of helpful tips, tricks, and suggested activities to keep you up to date and responsible. Remember, even if you’re prepared as best you are able, accidents can still happen, so do your best to stay alert and stay safe, and we wish many happy trails to you all! The Very Basics of Safe Snowmobiling: Don’t drink/use and ride; much like getting behind the wheel of a car while drunk or high, snowmobiling while intoxicated is a no go. Never ride alone.  There’s safety in numbers, and two or more people will keep you safest while snowmobiling. Know the risks and be prepared for anything. Stay on the trails and don’t go off-map. Make sure everyone has safety gear such as a compass and map, waterproof matches and flare/candles, crank flashlight and/or headlamp and/or flashlight with spare batteries, extra ignition key, a tow strap, first aid kit, survival kit, etc.  Consider two-way radios and/or satellite phones if typical cell tower reception is low. Wear a safety helmet and fully protective waterproof clothing with reflective strips, full eye protection, and solid boots. Maintain a safe speed to minimize odds of losing control of the vehicle, injury to passengers, or other catastrophic accident. Avoid driving on lakes, rivers, and other frozen bodies of water; these may appear to be solid, but weather can change very, very quickly and once you fall in things can get dangerous very fast. Maintain your calm and stay focused. Keep your eyes peeled for potential hazards on the trail including other snowmobiles, people, and animals as well as weather and natural elements.  Keep your emotions regulated to avoid road rage and distracted driving. No one under the age of 16 should be allowed to drive, and children younger than 6 should not be a passenger. Do not take on more passengers than your vehicle is designed for; if it isa solo riding snowmobile, do not add a second person, and if designed for dual riders do not take on more than that. Use extreme caution if/when towing passengers on sleds, tubes, tires, or other ride-on items. How to prepare for your snowmobiling adventures: First, it’s important to understand state and local laws and regulations. Check with your local snowmobile club, snowmobile dealer/rental facility, and department of parks and recreation for updated information on local rules and guidelines.  It’s also important to adhere to posted signage; respect public and private property owners by not trespassing where prohibited to do so. Second, it’s recommended to enroll in a snowmobile safety course. These specialized safety courses work much like the typical Driver’s Ed for new drivers. You’ll learn the parts of a snowmobile, how they operate, helpful riding skills, emergency and troubleshooting tips, how to avoid potential hazards, basic laws and regulations for operation, and many also include a live driving test. Third item of merit, you’ll want to learn proper communication and hand signals to help you stay safe, much like using hand signals as a cyclist on trails and roads. Fourth on our list is keeping your eye on the weather and taking properly maintained and groomed trails in safe weather conditions.  Snowmobiling is an outdoor motorsport, and keeping abreast of inclement weather is vital to your safety. You’ll want to be aware of recent and pending weather conditions not just so you can dress appropriately with goggles and other gear, but so that you can determine if it is safe to embark on your journey. Anything under -20F is too cold to ride, with 0F to 30F being the most comfortable weather conditions for snowmobiling. You’ll also want to avoid snow squalls, snow glare, and whiteouts, so please, postpone your trip if the weather is unfavorable!  You’ll also want to be aware of avalanches in specific areas of terrain, so be sure to check www.avalanche.org for existing conditions. Fifth on our recommendations, but certainly not the least, is to make sure that you’re properly insured for collisions, bodily injury, property damage, and/or comprehensive insurance plans.  Accidents can happen at any time, and making sure you’re covered whether you own or rent is imperative to staying safe and sound and preventing costly damages. May the memory of Ken Block and his legacy live on: Today we’re honoring the memory of Ken Block, founder and driver of DC Shoes as well as the infamous Hoonigan Racing.  Earlier this month, Ken Block was involved in an unfortunate snowmobile accident and passed away from related injuries.  Ken Block will be missed and he will be always fondly remembered by all of us in the automotive community.  His legacy will live on! The Hoonigans Pay Tribute to Ken Block:

We love exploring all the beautiful places that Illinois and Wisconsin have to offer, but sometimes breaking out of the typical and traditional is just what the doctor ordered. That’s why on today’s blog we’re heading out of state to Michigan!  You’ll find great suggestions for unexpected destinations just a few hours drive away from our dealership in Waukegan. more Lac La Belle Michigan This charming and scenic resort area is packed with plenty of big attractions to thrill adventure seekers!  Head over to the lodgings a t Mount Bohemia Ski Resort, or rent a private cabin nearby for a cozy, snowy retreat from your day-to-day stresses.  You’ll enjoy a wonderful stay filled with snowmobiling, snowboarding, skiing and more! The area gets more than 250 inches of snowfall annually, and is a premier winter sports destination in the Lake Superior area. Marquette, Michigan From November to mid-March, this is another fantastic destination for winter weather thrills and chills.  You’ll have no shortage of excitement here for some unexpected activities such as snow biking, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and even horse drawn sleigh rides!  And if you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, we also recommend heading over to Little Presque Isle for a glimpse of the Northern Lights! New Buffalo Michigan If you seek a quiet respite from your daily life, you’ll find plenty of rest and rejuvenation in this quaint little community.  Normally a hustling and bustling town along Lake Michigan in the summer, in just 90 minutes by train or 3 hours by car, you’ll find yourself lost in a charming winter wonderland. Explore the southwest Michigan wine trail, take a scenic winter hike, shop the downtown area and antique stores, rent a fat-tire bike, or even go old-fashioned sledding or tubing.  It’s a wonderful place to get cozy and relaxed. Mackinac Island Michigan The Island is in peak season in the late spring and early summer, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of opportunities to have fun in the “off-season”, too!  Head on out to the island and you’ll see why the year-round residents love it here.  From fat-tire biking to snowshoeing to cross country skiing, there’s no shortage of fun.  There’s also a wonderful selection of seasonal community activities and events, including a chili-cook off, guided walking tours of the island, and so much more!  And of course, there’s plenty of fine dining and shopping to enjoy as well. South Haven Michigan This coastal getaway is exactly what you’d expect with a beautiful name like that, a wonderful haven away from the hustle and bustle of work and errands!  This beautiful off-season destination is sure to please with its sparkling snowy winterscapes, waterfront breezes, and gorgeous trails for crunching through the snow. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and good ol’ fashioned sledding through this fairytale wonderland will captivate visitors of all ages and energy levels!  You may even catch a glimpse of frozen waves twinkling in the sunlight as you sip your hot cider.  It’s worth visiting for the most magical getaway!

Did you know today is Kid Inventors Day? Inspire your young ones to get crafty with STEM/STEAM related opportunities and foster independent learning with a dash of creativity and ingenuity. We’ve got some great choices in books to read in the car on the way to your next family visit to the science museum, as well as books that will light a spark in their imagination. You'll also find free online tutorials for STEAM and creative projects, as well as subscription box suggestions for the independent learner..  Each workshop or project is  either good for keeping young ones busy while you work on things during the day, or a bit of togetherness time for weekends and evenings or breaks in the day. more Mistakes That Worked: The World’s Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be By Charlotte Foltz Jones with John O’Brien as Illustrator Sometimes, creative minds can be a little hard on themselves and expect perfection. This book is a great way to help kids understand that sometimes the happiest of accidents lead to the most beautiful new discoveries! This book will give them a chance to learn all about these unintentional inventions that have become ubiquitous in our daily lives. Izzy Gizmo and the Invention Convention By Pip Jones and Sara Ogilvie as Illustrator This wonderful picture book will inspire young readers and makes a great “readaloud” story for the whole family!  Izzy uses plenty of ingenuity to create a machine that can mend broken tools, and hopes to win a membership to the Genius Guild. Follow along with all of the wacky hijinks and clever, creative problem solving, and inspire the little STEAM enthusiasts and Makers in your midst! Rosie Revere, Engineer By Andrea Beaty and David Roberts as Illustrator The Questioneers series is a bestselling collection of stories for a reason! From Rosie Revere, Engineer to Ada Twist, Scientist, and Iggy Peck, Architect, your little inventors will be inspired for years to come. Starting them off as readalouds, and graduating to a first read for many kids is a great way to get them thinking outside the box, and the gears of creativity turning!  Rosie Revere is sure to inspire passion, creativity, and problem solving. If I Built a Car By Chris Van Dusen Jack has a limitless imagination!  He knows just what he would do if given the chance to invent his own vehicle.  Inspired by all of the things around him: old cars, zeppelins, locomotives, planes, and more, Jack and his father set out to create something magnificent.  A great book to read aloud and get little minds a spark of creativity! Awesome Robotics Projects for Kids By Bob Katovich Foster a teamwork environment and get the gears turning in your kiddo’s head!  This book has 20 original designs for STEAM projects and creativity.  Use household items and a little ingenuity to build something incredible. Lifeovercs.com has an excellent Transportation Activities unit ready to go.  You can engage children in preschool, kindergarten, and early elementary school ages with these activities.  From Math to Literacy to Arts and Crafts, it’s a full STEAM ahead list of engaging hands-on ideas. Keep preschoolers interested in play and increasing their motor skills and independent play with some of these excellent activities from Preschoolactivitiesnook.com ! There are 5 daily lessons that which be done with a sibling or an adult, as well as on their own for exploration. TamingLittleMonsters.com has three different physics related experiments and projects to inspire the physicist in your midst!  The projects are delightful, and your children will be so engaged they won’t even realize they’re learning the fundamentals of a scientific field. KiwiCo kits are an excellent idea to engage young learners and encourage them to explore STEAM concepts  Subscribe and kits will automatically ship to your doorstep.  You can find projects for all ages from infant to toddler, early elementary, middle school, and beyond.  The company offers “Koala Crates” “Kiwi Crates” “Atlas Crate” “Doodle Crate” options!

Want to shake things up with your weekend plans? You’ll love today’s blog!  Plan your wintry escape in the great outdoors and choose from our list of amazing snowmobiling, sledding, and winter sports trails.  Whether you like to hit top speeds on your ATV or snowmobile, or prefer to snowshoe it along at a leisurely pace, you’ll find no shortage of pristine wilderness and natural landscapes to enjoy! more Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda Whether you’re heading out for a solo day to get in touch with nature, or breaking away from the screens with your family and friends for outdoor fun, you’ll have a blast here in the Wauconda area.  From Ice Fishing to Ice Skating to Sledding and Snowmobiling, there are plenty of ways to enjoy wintertime outdoors at the Lakewood preserve.  There are even several dog parks for your canine companions to enjoy a little socialization time! Cheese Country Recreation Trail This 47-mile trail starts in Monroe and stretches through gorgeous hilltops and sprawling farmlands!  You’ll have plenty of opportunity to go sledding, snowshoeing, and walk the trails before hitting the slopes on your snowmobiles!  There’s plenty of adventure to be had here. Minocqua Forest Riders Snowmobile Club This incredible group maintains over 160 miles of trails in Northern Wisconsin in the Minocqua area.  The group grooms the trails weekly, ensuring they’re in prime condition for weekend activities. There’s a lot of additional wintertime Northwoods activities in the area, too: ice skating, ice fishing, snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding galore! Glacial Drumlin State Trail This 52-mile stretch of trails in Wisconsin is located between Madison and Milwaukee, and runs through gorgeous glacial made landscapes.  You’ll blaze a trail along the edges of the incredible Kettle Moraine State Forest, and if you’re lucky you’ll even catch a glimpse of the wild animals who live there. Best of all, since the trail cuts through almost a dozen local towns, you’ll have plenty of time to rest, recharge, and grab a bite to eat in between the excitement. Bearskin State Trail This 26 mile trail stretches through two counties in Wisconsin.  Enjoy beautiful views of densely wooded pine forests, and enjoy the many lakes and ponds inviting you to enjoy the sites and sounds of the majestic regional wildlife. Des Plaines River Trail Wadsworth Spanning a whopping 56 miles in both Cook and Lake counties, this gorgeous trail is perfect for year round fun.  You can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, walking, and horseback riding in warmer weather, or head out for a cool afternoon of winter fun with cross country skiing or snowmobiling.  This trail winds its way along protected lands and 85% of the river running through Lake County. Are you a thrillseeker who can’t get enough of the adrenaline rush and wants a few more options? Check out these incredible trails for snowmobiling, downhill skiing and snowboarding, and even cross country skiing across all of wisconsin! This live snow report will show you the best trails, any potential closures, and snowfall reports. If you’re not into fast paced vehicles in the snow, keep both feet on the ground and slide into some fun activities at the ice rink! Great places to go skating in the Waukegan Area: Top Shelf Ice Arena in Gurnee, IL Skate Room in Vernon Hills, IL Watts Ice Center in Glencoe, IL Skating Ring at Midway Plaisance in Chicago, IL Inwood Ice Arena in Chicago, IL Kenosha Ice Arena in Kenosha, WI Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, WI Downhill skiing, not your speed? Why not try tubing or sledding! Great hills to get an adrenaline rush in the Waukegan Area: Century Park Sled Hill in Vernon Hills, IL Wilmot Mountain in Wilmot, WI Wadsworth Sledding Hill in Wadsworth, IL Hart’s Hill in Round Lake, IL Paulus Park in Lake Zurich, IL Caboose Hill Sledding Hill in Lake Villa, IL Blair Park in Lake Bluff, IL Warren Township Sledding Hill in Gurnee, IL Christine Thompson Park in Gurnee, IL

Second Win for Kia in Four Years EV6 recognized for automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, value Second North American Utility Vehicle of the Year ™ win for Kia in four years EV6 was selected by jury of 50 automotive experts more 2023 EV6 DETROIT, Mich., January 11, 2023 – Today, the all-electric Kia EV6 was named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ by the North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) jury. This is the second occasion in four years that the NACTOY jury has named a Kia vehicle as its top choice in the category, and the first win for a Kia electric vehicle (EV). “Since going on sale in early 2022, the EV6 model range has illustrated the sophistication and refinement inherent to Kia EV engineering, and North American customers have taken notice,” said Sean Yoon, President and CEO, Kia America. “In a year with three electric finalists, this win proves that EV6 is not only a top utility vehicle, but also an exemplary EV.” The EV6 was selected by 50 automotive experts from print, online, radio, and broadcast media. As part of the evaluation process, NACTOY jurors tested vehicles ranging from sports cars to pickup trucks, and assessed criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety features, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience, and value. The EV6 continues to rise in popularity. To date, more than 19,000 EV6 models have been sold at Kia retailers throughout all 50 states, including the 576-hp EV6 GT that went on sale in December 2022. The EV6 delivers jaw-dropping performance, ultra-fast DC charging compatibility, available onboard power, and a flat-floor interior that utilizes innovative materials throughout the cabin. The EV6 offers a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems 1, a remarkable level of connectivity features, as well as Kia’s latest-generation energy-efficient heat pump, which scavenges waste heat from the car’s coolant system. The EV6 is a critical part of the Kia “Plan S” strategy to launch at least two battery-electric vehicles (BEV) per year and build a full line-up of 14 BEVs by 2027. Kia America – about us Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of over 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.* For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert. * The K5, Sportage, Sorento, and Telluride (excludes HEV and PHEV models) are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts. 1 Advanced driver assistance systems are not substitutes for safe driving and may not detect all objects around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution.Press Release Information Accuracy DisclaimerInformation posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.

Today is National Hot Tea Day!  What could be better on a cold winter’s day than a piping hot cup o’ tea? There’s just something so effortlessly comforting about sipping a fresh brew under a cozy blanket.  It’s even great for thawing out after clearing the snow off your car as you head out for your morning commute. And since February is just around the corner, we thought we’d keep it festive!  These mugs and tea makers are a great idea for snuggling up to your special someone next month for Valentine’s Day. more They’re also a fun option to give to your bestie or coworker as a Palentine’s Day gesture!  (Of course, there’s also never a bad time to treat yourself, so we’re not going to stop you.)  So today we’re sharing our picks for great travel mugs, portable tea infusers, and travel-friendly tea kettles. The portable and colorful Hydro Flask Mug comes in multiple sizes for your convenience, and you can add your personal flair by choosing one of 6 different colorways. Choose from 6 oz, 12oz, and 24oz options, all under $35! The S’well Stainless Steel Tumbler keeps drinks cold or hot, and comes in some pretty fun color and pattern options for under $40, and are built with sustainability in mind as much as aesthetics. The YETI Rambler Tumbler comes in 10, 20, and 30oz sizes, comes in multiple colorways, offers replaceable magsliders, has customizable options, and is cup holder compatible!  What more could you ask for at a price under $40. The BruMate Toddy travel mug has a convenient handle and lid and touts itself as 100% leak proof, which we think is a real steal at just $30! Teabloom offers a wonderful beverage tumbler that is insulated and includes an extra-fine 2 way infuser insert!  Use your tumbler for cold or hot beverages, and infuse them with flavor from tea, herbs, or even fruit.  Prefer coffee? No problem! You can also make delicious cold brew with it!  And it won’t break the bank, priced just under $30! The Teami Tea Tumbler doubles as an infuser bottle, so you can create tea blends or fruit-infused water!  It’s also great in the hotter months for iced tea or smoothies.  Another great option under $30! Take your show on the road with this travel friendly foldable electric tea kettle from Neme! Comes in three different color options for under $40 and is a great choice for chilly weather road trips. Not only is this portable electric kettle sleek looking and fun, but it’s also incredibly efficient!  It’s small in size, boils in 5 minutes, and has a leak proof seal to prevent spills.  We love its budget friendly price of just under $40, too! Leaving you a little extra for some fancy teas.

Our Body Shop Manager fields a lot of calls and texts with questions about insurance coverage following an accident or collision. For today’s blog we thought we’d cover some do’s-and-don’ts of selecting adequate insurance coverage, and some of the ins-and-outs of processing claims via insurance and body shops for repair. Selecting quality insurance for your vehicle can not only protect you and your car, but also your passengers, family members, and other drivers. more Budgeting for good, quality car insurance when purchasing a car can save you hundreds in costly repairs, and avoids time wasted from playing phone tag or chasing via email. When you choose a reputable insurance, you will have more flexibility in selecting your regular mechanic, or the option of having your car fixed by a professional partner shop. At Classic Auto Body - all you may need is an estimate from your insurance company & we’ll take care of the rest. With a state-of-the-art facility & some of the best equipment available, you’ll be in good hands. Beware of discounted insurance, as it usually results in less coverage than you need and major customer service hassles. The national companies might have slightly higher rates, but they are still competitive, reliable, and efficient. Here’s a recent story about a customer who was struck by a deer and his car suffered significant damage. He had his vehicle towed here. We worked with his insurance company, arranged his covered rental car, and completed the work to factory specs. His only expense was his insurance deductible. Stick with a national, reputable insurance company, and you’ll ensure that your claims are handled professionally and efficiently.

Welcome to another great edition of Classic Auto Body’s Service Tips!  Today, we’re sharing our advice for great winter weather safety and maintenance.  These seven simple steps will help you if you’re stranded in inclement weather and rapidly dropping temps, as well as seeing you’re prepared for just about anything the season can throw at you. Check it out on today’s blog! more Always keep your fuel tank at least halfway full. In the event of an emergency such as breaking down on the side of the road in frigid temps, getting stuck in a snowbank and needing a tow, or other winter-weather emergencies, it’s good to have plenty of fuel in the tank.  You’ll be able to keep yourself insulated with the heat, and be able to keep the lights on for safety without draining the battery. Keep some spare towels, blankets, and winter clothes in your car. You never know when you’re going to run into trouble in the cold weather. You may leave your office and come out to find your car buried in snow, or covered in a thick layer of ice/sleet.  Being able to change into dry, warm clothes can make a difference!  Keep an extra set of dry clothes in a waterproof bag in your trunk or cargo area. If you’re stranded with a non-running vehicle and no heat, these emergency thermal ponchos/blankets can keep you insulated and dry. Always travel with a flashlight and reflectors or flares. With the daylight hours waning earlier and darkness lasting a little longer, and it can make it harder to spot your vehicle on the side of the road. Tools such as a very bright flashligh t and extra batteries or one with a crank rechargeable option. Be sure to carry reflectors, road flares, or an emergency spotlight with you as well to enable service folk to find you when necessary! Carry a small shovel and a bag or small lidded bucket of salt. In the event you’re iced in or perhaps spinning your wheels in slush, a small portable shovel and a bit of salt can go a long way! You might be able to avoid calling roadside assistance if you’re able to just melt your troubles away. Don’t force your key into any locks that may be frozen. Instead, consider adding a de-icer to your emergency bag in the event your locks, hatchback, trunk, or doors are frozen shut!. Change to winter tires if your area calls for it, and maintain consistent tire pressure. In the winter weather, your tires are a key element in ensuring your safety in event of inclement weather or an accident during wintry conditions. Keeping a tire-pressure gauge on hand for monitoring your wheels is a great idea. Protect your windshield wipers from damage. Ensure that your car is fitted with properly working, new wiper blades before the worst of winter weather rolls in.  If you live in an area where there are very low temperature dips at night, or you park outdoors and your vehicle is exposed to icy elements, leave the windshield wipers in a raised position to prevent freezing to your windshield.  Do not use your wiper blades to remove caked-on snow or stuck on ice!  Use your snowbrush and ice scraper for the job to ensure your blades remain efficient and sturdy for driving in bad weather.  Consider also applying a coat of something like RainX, as well..  Adding a a proper de-icer fluid or all-weather or cold-weather wiper fluid can also make a world of difference.

It’s “Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month” and today we’re highlighting some great places in Illinois and neighboring cities that are just a short road trip away!  And we’re also covering some convenient ways to transport your winter sports gear in your car, truck, or SUV. more How to Efficiently Store and Pack for a Winter Sports Road Trip Have some tarps, waterproof blankets, or other protective barriers to keep your vehicle’s interior dry and free of slush, snow, and debris when you pack your snowboarding or skiing gear into the car. Keep a snowbrush on hand to dust off your boots, gear, and other accessories before you pack them into your vehicle. Packing a stack of absorbent towels on hand for melted snow and ice, and drying off any gear you’re changing out of. Garbage bags or other waterproof totes and plastic bins can keep your wet clothes or wet towels off of vehicle upholstery. Store your skis or snowboard on a roof rack on top of your vehicle or a hitch-mounted ski rack. Alternatively, a cargo box can be a great way to transport your skis or snowboarding gear, and will keep them free of muck, grime, salt, and road spray unlike a roof rack. Great Gear for Transporting Skis and Snowboards The Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack, Large This rack can hold 6 pair of skis or 4 snowboards, and weighs about 14lbs.  It’s got added roof clearance for skis with tall bindings, and is easy to open and close with an oversized push button.  Best of all, it’s under $400. The Thule Force XT L Roof Box With 450 liters of cargo capacity, and 6 feet 3 inches in length, this roof rack is great for group outings!  It can hold 5 to 7 pairs of skis, and 3 to 5 snowboards, depending on their size.  It’s also designed for everyday use, making it easy for all-season travel. The Pelican BX85 Cargo Case, Large Saddle Case This is a great cargo accessory choice for storing your clothing, gear, and even camping supplies like food. Great Places for Winter Sports Adventures Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports Ski School in Lisle, Illinois With ski areas open to all ages and skill levels, Four Lakes Alpine has been operating for over 60 seasons and is home to some of the top downhill skiing and snowboarding trails in the area.  It’s got gorgeous panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, too!  You can’t beat it as a great winter vacation destination. Villa Olivia in Bartlett, Illinois No matter if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, there’s something exciting in store for you at Villa Olivia!  Sign up for some of the guided classes and learn something new, or head right to the lift if you’re ready to rock!  Passes are available for regular visits, too.  Check the website for regular updates on weather conditions, but with state of the art snow-making things should be ski-ready at a moments notice even if Mother Nature won’t cooperate. Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois This ski resort has got it all!  Whether you’re looking for prime winter sports activities or you prefer watching them in 4K high definition on the big screen at a sports bar, there’s lots to do at Chestnut MMountain Resort.  Plus, it’s even got a great indoor pool and hot tub for warming up with some hot cocoa after a day on the slopes.  There are also great restaurants for dining in and refueling between your downhill runs!  It’s family friendly, but also makes a great getaway for friends or couples looking for a bit of respite. More Great Downhill Skiing and Winter Sports Destinations Snowstar in Andalusia, IL Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove, IL Gander Mountain in Antioch, IL Sagawau Environmental Learning Center in Lemont, IL Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort in Wilmot, WI Alpine Valley Resort in Elkhorn, WI Little Switzerland in Slinger, WI Fox Hill Ski Area in West Bend, WI The Mountain Top Ski and Adventure Center at Grand Geneva in Lake Geneva, WI Sunburst Ski Area in Kewaskum, WI Sundown Mountain Resort in Dubuque, IA Pines Family Ski Area in Valparaiso, IN