HIGH POINT, N.C. – Thomas Built Buses, a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America, is proud to announce the addition of three new dealerships to its esteemed Platinum Support Dealer Program for 2024. Western Mountain Bus Sales of Nampa, Idaho, Myers Equipment of Canfield, Ohio, and Velocity Truck Centers serving British Columbia have all achieved Platinum certification. This designation demonstrates their commitment to providing unparalleled service and support to Thomas Built Buses customers.
The Platinum Support Dealer Program recognizes dealerships that go above and beyond in customer service, parts availability and service capabilities. These dealers have met rigorous standards and demonstrated unwavering dedication to operational excellence. Through an extensive training regimen, Platinum Support dealerships learn to eliminate waste from day-to-day business operations, pass down faster vehicle assessment, reduce vehicle downtime and lower vehicle lifecycle costs for the customer.
“The dedication and commitment demonstrated by Velocity Truck Centers, Myers Equipment and Western Mountain in achieving Platinum Support status is truly commendable,” said Dee Dee Parnell, general manager of dealer network development at Thomas Built Buses. “Their continuous pursuit of excellence ensures that our customers receive unparalleled sales and aftermarket support, reinforcing our commitment to superior service.”
Established in 2015, the Thomas Built Buses Platinum Support Dealer Program is focused on improving the customer experience. Today, nearly 80% of all Thomas Built dealers are Platinum Support-certified.
For more information on service offerings, contact your local Thomas Built dealer.
About Thomas Built Buses:
Founded in 1916, Thomas Built Buses is a leading manufacturer of school buses in North America. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America. Learn more at thomasbuiltbuses.com or facebook.com/thomasbuiltbuses.
Thomas Built Buses, Inc., headquartered in High Point, North Carolina, is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck North America LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive products and technologies for the commercial transportation industry. The company designs, engineers, manufactures and markets medium- and heavy-duty trucks, school buses, vehicle chassis and their associated technologies and components under the Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp and Detroit brands. Daimler Truck North America is a subsidiary of Daimler Truck, one of the world’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers.
SAN ANTONIO — HOLT Truck Centers, a HOLT Group operating company, announced today that it has acquired Kyrish Truck Centers, a leading provider of new and used on-highway trucks that operates 20 International Motors, Fleetrite Truck Parts, Idealease, and Longhorn Bus dealerships and service centers in Texas.
The acquisition brings the combined number of HOLT Truck Centers locations to 35, making it the third largest International Motors dealership in the United States, a significant milestone for the company’s growth and innovation.
HOLT Truck Centers is an authorized dealer for International, IC Bus, and Idealease at dealerships in Oklahoma and in North and East Texas. The company also operates seven sales and service locations across Texas, providing comprehensive parts and service for all makes of trucks, RVs, and trailers, including engine rebuilds, diagnostics, maintenance, and emergency services like brakes, drivelines, and transmissions.
“As a family-owned company, this acquisition marks an important milestone in our growth and allows us to expand while staying true to our roots,” said Bert Fulgium, senior vice president of HOLT Group. “Our commitment to putting our customers first remains at the heart of everything we do. We’re proud to welcome Kyrish Truck Centers into our family. Together, we will continue to provide the same level of service and dedication that define us.”
Headquartered in Houston, Kyrish Truck Centers has been family-owned and operated since 1976, selling medium-duty, heavy-duty, and severe-service duty trucks, and leading Texas as an International and IC Bus dealer.
With this acquisition, HOLT Truck Centers will expand its presence in Texas to locations in Austin, Houston, and the Rio Grande Valley. The 550 current Kyrish Truck Center employees will become employees of HOLT Truck Centers and will continue to operate from current locations. Longhorn Bus will continue to operate under that brand and is the authorized IC Bus dealer throughout Texas.
HOLT Truck Centers is the authorized International and Idealease dealer in Oklahoma, North Texas, and East Texas. Additionally, HOLT Truck Centers has dedicated truck engine service bays throughout its full-service facilities, with the necessary components to provide bumper-to-bumper diagnostics, maintenance, and emergency service, including brakes, drivelines and transmissions for all makes and models of on-highway trucks, RVs, and buses.
With a large selection of new and used on highway trucks, trailers and specialty equipment, HOLT Truck Centers has the inventory to meet your needs. Other manufacturers available at HOLT Truck Centers include IC Bus, Isuzu commercial trucks, Ottawa, XL Specialized, Battle Motors, Load King, and HI-VAC specialty vehicles. HOLT Truck Centers has 35 locations throughout Texas and Oklahoma.
Just like traditional gas-powered vehicles, a hybrid car battery can be jump started when the battery is discharged. Jump-starting your hybrid shouldn’t stray too far from the process of their gas engine counterpart, though the same amount of caution should be taken.
Please note your jumper cable connectors should not be touching unless they are fully disconnected.
Park your vehicle on a flat and dry surface
Turn the vehicle off alongside all electrical components including the headlights and radio
Place the positive jumper cable clamp (+) colored red on the positive battery terminal of your discharged hybrid battery or positive jump post
Place the positive clamp on the positive terminal of the functioning car battery
Place the negative battery (-) colored black on the negative terminal of the functioning car battery
Place the negative clamp on the negative battery terminal of the dead battery or negative jump post
Start the engine of the vehicle with the functioning battery and lightly press the accelerate for about five minutes
Start the engine of your hybrid with the discharged battery
Remove the negative clamp from the previously-dead battery
Remove the negative clamp from the functioning battery
Remove the positive clamp from the functioning battery
Remove the positive clamp from the previously-dead battery
What Causes a Hybrid Battery to Die?
While it may be difficult to narrow down the exact cause of your hybrid battery dying, there are a few main culprits that tend to pop up:
Loose battery terminals can cause a discharged battery in both gas and hybrid vehicles. In order to avoid this, inspect your battery terminals when your Toyota is turned off.
Extremely cold temperatures can negatively affect the 12-volt battery by slowing down battery chemistry
Parasitic draw happens when something electric, like a cabin light being left or a door not being closed all the way, drains your car battery.
Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, the Midwest’s largest hybrid dealer, Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume.
The new Toyota bZ4X is poised to amaze, as the all-electric vehicle makes its way to Madison roads. Get a closer look at the exciting new vehicle and how it stacks up against the competition with Smart Toyota today.
Is the Toyota bZ4X Better than the Tesla Model Y?
As all-electric models, the bZ4X and Model Y make for an intriguing matchup. While the Tesla brand may be more of a hot topic surrounding all-electric vehicles, the truth of the matter is that Toyota’s longtime reputation of reliability can even the odds.
While the bZ4X may come up short in horsepower and torque, the motif of reliability returns when it comes to fuel economy. The new bZ4X features EPA estimates of 131 MPGe in the city, 107 MPGe on the highway, and up to 119 MPGe combined. In addition to efficiency, the EPA electric range between the two models are incredibly close: 260 miles for the Model Y and 252 miles for the bZ4X.
The Toyota model also features a 6.6 kW on-board charger, which the Model Y lacks, and charges from zero to 80% in approximately 30 minutes when using a DC fast charger. What’s more, the bZ4X yields a better battery capacity (71.4 kWh) compared to the Model Y (60.0 kWh).
Are you interested in a new Toyota bZ4X? Schedule a test drive with the all-electric model at our Toyota dealership in Madison. If you have any questions about the new Toyota bZ4X in comparison to other vehicles, contact us at Smart Motors Toyota today.
About Smart Motors
Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison Wisconsin, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More about Smart Motors.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid allows you to expand your automotive experience, combining gas and electric power while retaining the signature Toyota reliability you know and love. A huge part of why you can continue to depend on Toyota vehicles is performance, which the RAV4 Hybrid surely delivers.
The 2023 RAV4 Hybrid features Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, providing all-weather capability and confident on-road driving dynamics. This system utilizes a dedicated electric drive motor to automatically supply power to the rear wheels for instant improvement in traction, letting you explore new grounds.
The all-wheel drive system is perfect for the city and suburbs as well, providing added peace of mind through inclement weather.
More 2023 RAV4 Hybrid Performance Highlights
The RAV4 Hybrid packs a punch with 219 combined net horsepower for great acceleration through highway speeds. Along with an EPA-estimated rating of 41 miles per gallon in the city, you can retain efficiency, as well.
Enjoy a variety of drive modes behind the wheel to tailor your experience on or off-road:
Normal Mode: utilizes both gas and electric to keep you going
Eco Mode: helps increase fuel efficiency by reducing acceleration levels
EV Mode: pulls power from the battery to maximize efficiency for short distances
Sport Mode: provides a boost in acceleration
Trail Mode: helps manage traction when in off-road settings
Those interested in enhanced power and acceleration should consider the RAV4 Hybrid SE and XSE models, featuring a sport-tuned suspension, tauter shock absorbers and springs.
Are you looking to try out the new RAV4 Hybrid for yourself? Schedule a test drive with us at our Madison, WI dealership. If you have any questions about hybrid vehicles or Electric On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, contact us online at Smart Toyota.
About Smart Motors
Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison Wisconsin, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More about Smart Motors.about Smart Motors.
If you’re prioritizing passenger and cargo space while wanting to maintain performance, choosing a new Toyota SUV with third row seating is a great way to go. With select models featuring third-row seating, you can get the capability you crave, while at the same time, bringing everyone and everything along for the ride.
From reliability to comfort and style, these Toyota SUVs with third-row seating tick all the necessary boxes, so you can cruise throughout Madison and far beyond without a second thought.
Toyota SUVs with Third-Row Seating
2023 Toyota 4Runner
Blazing trails with power and style, that’s the ever capable 2023 Toyota 4Runner. In addition to a third row, the Toyota 4Runner features Smart Key System with Push Button Start, Toyota Safety Sense P, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. In the world of rugged off-road SUVs, the Toyota 4Runner has been a long-standing icon. With the release of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner, Toyota continues to uphold its reputation for crafting durable, adventurous vehicles that can conquer any terrain. The latest iteration of this beloved SUV brings together enhanced performance, advanced technology, and a refreshed design, making it an irresistible choice for both off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers seeking a touch of adventure in their lives.
2023 Toyota Highlander
Consider the new Toyota Highlander for your next SUV, with the third row of seating providing seating for up to eight passengers. Along with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, you can have peace of mind on every drive. At first glance, the 2023 Highlander exudes confidence with its striking design. Sculpted lines and a prominent grille give it an assertive stance while maintaining an aura of sophistication. LED headlights and taillights not only enhance visibility but also contribute to its modern aesthetic.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a refined interior that exudes comfort and luxury. Premium materials and meticulous attention to detail create an atmosphere that rivals high-end vehicles. With spacious seating for up to eight passengers, the Highlander ensures that every journey is enjoyed in utmost comfort. Toyota has never been shy about embracing technology, and the 2023 Highlander is no exception. Whether it’s daily commuting, weekend getaways, or hauling cargo, the 2023 Highlander adapts to your lifestyle with ease. Fold-flat rear seats provide impressive cargo space, perfect for larger items. And with a towing capacity that rivals many trucks, this SUV is ready for adventure, whether you’re towing a camper or a boat.
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Identical to its gas-powered counterpart, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid seats up to eight across three rows of seating. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and efficiency, the automotive industry continues to evolve and adapt to meet the demands of eco-conscious consumers. The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid stands as a prime example of this evolution, seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology, comfort, and eco-friendliness in a single package. This hybrid SUV boasts an advanced hybrid powertrain that combines a fuel-efficient gasoline engine with an electric motor, allowing for an impressive blend of power and efficiency. With its intelligent energy management system, the Highlander Hybrid optimizes power distribution, seamlessly switching between the gasoline engine and electric motor to deliver a smooth and efficient driving experience. This not only translates to fewer stops at the fuel pump but also contributes to reduced carbon emissions—a win-win for both drivers and the environment. The 2023 Highlander Hybrid’s exterior design exudes elegance and modernity. Its sleek lines and aerodynamic profile not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to improved fuel efficiency. Signature LED headlights illuminate the road ahead while lending the vehicle a distinctive look that’s instantly recognizable. As the automotive landscape continues to change, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid emerges as a shining example of innovation and sustainability. It’s a vehicle that embraces the needs and desires of today’s drivers, offering a seamless blend of performance, comfort, and eco-consciousness.
2023 Toyota Sequoia
In the world of full-size SUVs, the Toyota Sequoia emerges as a true powerhouse, blending rugged durability with modern sophistication and of course, three rows of seating. With its revamped design, enhanced features, and unwavering performance, the Sequoia continues to make a bold statement in the ever-evolving automotive landscape. Step inside the Sequoia, and you’re greeted with a spacious and luxurious cabin that comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers. Premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship are evident throughout, providing a sense of refinement that elevates the driving experience. With available features like heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic moonroof, and advanced infotainment options, the Sequoia ensures that both driver and passengers travel in style and comfort. The 2023 Sequoia embraces modern technology, offering a range of features designed to keep you connected and safe on the road. The intuitive infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display with smartphone integration, allowing you to access navigation, entertainment, and communication with ease. Advanced driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on an off-road escapade, the Sequoia is more than just an SUV—it’s a symbol of reliability and adventure rolled into one.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
Discover the much-anticipated 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander. This extraordinary SUV harmonizes Toyota’s renowned reliability and elegance with the capaciousness and opulent attributes expected from a premier vehicle. With a commanding and vigorous exterior design, the Grand Highlander commands attention on the road, captivating onlookers at every turn. Its contemporary appeal is accentuated by sleek LED headlights and the iconic Toyota grille, while its refined contours and aerodynamic silhouette augment its efficiency and prowess. Meticulously crafted using upscale materials, the spacious cabin guarantees a top-tier driving experience for all occupants. Accommodating up to eight passengers with generous legroom across all three rows, the Grand Highlander offers unparalleled adaptability and luxury, whether embarking on long voyages or navigating daily commutes.
Packed with cutting-edge technology and safety enhancements, encompassing an intuitive infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance mechanisms, and a panoramic sunroof, this SUV seamlessly blends convenience, entertainment, and assurance. Whether maneuvering urban streets or embarking on outdoor escapades, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander stands as the impeccable companion, delivering exceptional performance, unmatched dependability, and a hint of opulence in every single drive.
If you’re interested in a Toyota SUV with third-row seating, schedule a test drive with us at our Madison dealership or visit us in person for a closer look. If you have any questions about our Toyota SUVs or potential financing options, be sure to contact us at Smart Motors Toyota.
About Smart Motors
Founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart, Smart Motors is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is Wisconsin’s Largest Toyota Certified Used Vehicle dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume new Toyota dealers. Located in Madison Wisconsin, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. More about Smart Motors.
So what are the best vehicles in the snow? Here are some things to consider. Winter driving can be a bit of a daunting task, especially if you aren’t fully equipped with the proper tools. From winter tires to all-wheel drive to the vehicle itself, Toyota offers everything you need to best navigate any snow, sleet, or freezing rain.
If you’re in the market for a new Toyota, consider the following models, as they offer plenty of performance all year round, including winter weather.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is designed to go on or off the road with available all-wheel drive and a multi-link rear suspension. Along with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 on the 2023 model, the Toyota RAV4 includes the tech you need for increased peace of mind in stressful driving environments like inclement weather.
As part of standard Multi-Terrain Select, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 features a SNOW mode, which increases traction in a given scenario. The system is designed to sense slippage and regulate wheelspin by automatically adjusting the engine throttle, brakes and drive-force distribution. In turn, this helps maximize driving performance on snowy and slippery roads.
The multi-link rear suspension in the RAV4 also enhances handling and control overall, using the vehicle’s natural body rigidity in order to keep the traction steady. The vehicle’s long, wide stance also promotes responsive handling, providing a smooth and confident ride throughout.
Toyota 4Runner
Another Toyota that is built for the tough terrain ahead, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner includes automatic modulation for the throttle and brakes with the advanced available Crawl Control (CRAWL) system.
The available electronic locking rear differential evenly distributes power to both rear wheels while the available Multi-Terrain Monitor helps increase awareness of any bumps or potential skids along the way.
The 4Runner offers nine inches of ground clearance and plenty of visibility with large, vertical windows and LED headlights. Utilize low beams, high beams and fog lamps to help navigate the snowy terrain, allowing for increased visibility in a snowstorm.
Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is revved up and ready to go with a new 2.4-liter turbo powertrain on the 2023 model. Add Multi-Terrain Select to the Highlander to keep you in control with ever-changing road conditions.
In addition to SNOW mode, the Highlander features an anti-lock braking system, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Traction Control to help keep peace of mind in inclement weather. The anti-lock braking system prevents your wheels from locking up from braking too often, analyzing the rotation of each wheel, and activating when one wheel stops rotating.
Electronic Brake Force Distribution regulates the brake pressure on each individual wheel, and works together with the anti-lock braking system. Meanwhile, Traction Control detects any wheel that is spinning over a slippery surface, and enables the brake on any given wheel.
Toyota Tundra
As evident by its name, the Toyota Tundra is surely ready to perform with the available electrified i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, iFORCE twin-turbo V6 engine option and a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds.
If you’re looking to make the most out of your Toyota Tundra in snow, consider the off-road models, which include an upgraded suspension, off-road tires, and skid plates. These, along with 8.5 inches of ground clearance, will help protect you and your vehicle in harsh snowy conditions.
People may not envision a pickup truck when they think of Toyota, but the Tundra goes to show how versatile and boundary-breaking the automotive brand can be.
Toyota Venza
The Toyota Venza utilizes advanced hybrid technology to achieve 219 horsepower, and class-leading fuel economy. Also featuring Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive, the Venza allows you to navigate through roadways safely and efficiently.
The available Panoramic View Monitor helps you check your surroundings via four total cameras – one on each side of the vehicle. If you are looking for a compromise between snow capability and hybrid efficiency, the Toyota Venza could be your go-to vehicle.
Toyota Sienna AWD
The Toyota Sienna has become iconic for its spaciousness and ever-capable performance. When it comes to snow, the Sienna is no different. Trim levels like the Sienna XSE feature a sport-tuned suspension, maximizing responsiveness and preparing you for slippery conditions.
The all-hybrid powertrain allows you to keep up with efficiency while staying winter-ready, with all-wheel drive enhancing your confidence on a given road. If you’re caught in a snowy situation, the sturdy body of the Sienna and about half a foot of ground clearance let you plow through light snow with ease.
Toyota Camry AWD
Toyota innovation is truly a wonder, and the Toyota Camry shares snow-performance technology with the bigger SUVs and trucks. With all-wheel drive enabled, the Camry is equipped to sense any slipping when driving through snow or rain. Sending up to half of the vehicle’s torque capacity to the rear wheels, your Camry smartly grips the road when you need it most.
Enjoy a sport-tuned suspension to perform on a daily basis, even without snow in the mix. While it may not be as formidable in size and stature, the Toyota Camry is prepared to keep you and yours throughout winter, thanks to the ever-impressive technology of Toyota.
Shop for a New Toyota in Madison, WI at Smart Toyota
If you’re considering a new vehicle, schedule a test drive with one of our aforementioned models. If you have any questions about a new or used vehicle, be sure to contact us. We’re happy to help.
Spring time in Wisconsin is like when a bear comes out of hibernation. Daytime temperatures are pushing 50 degrees, Wisconsinites are sporting shorts and short sleeve shirts, but when the winter frost leaves our roadways we are left with those pesky “potholes” which can cause damage to our vehicle’s alignment. The constant freezing and unfreezing of water on roadways can wreak havoc, forming supersize potholes destroying the underside of your vehicle. The automotive specialists at Smart Motors service department have the following advice to help prevent and notice pothole-related damage.
Visible damage is the easiest to detect, but may not be the only indication your vehicle needs some attention. One obvious sign of tire damage is when a tire ‘bulges’; which occurs when the steel/fiber ply belt in the sidewall of a tire breaks due to a heavy impact. Luis Roman, Assistant Service Manager at Smart Motors Service Center, says even if your tires don’t have bulges does not necessarily mean you are free from the damage of potholes.
Luis Roman, Assistant Service Manager
Warning Signs of Pothole Damage
If your vehicle pulls to one side, or your steering wheel is visibly off center, Roman suggests being on the safe side and schedule an appointment with a reputable automotive service center and getting an assessment. This way, the vehicle’s alignment and other signs of damage can be analyzed and fixed before they become a major problem. Repair costs can vary greatly depending on the extent of damaged parts; from a $200 strut to several thousand dollars for an entire suspension system and cradle.
Roman also offers these tips to help protect vehicles against the jarring experience of a pothole encounter:
Tips to Protect your Vehicle from Pesky Potholes
• Maintain full air pressure in all tires to provide as much cushion as possible between the pothole and the rim of the tire. Consult the vehicle owner’s manual for the correct pressure. • Watch for potholes by leaving plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. • If a pothole cannot be avoided, slow down BEFORE hitting the pothole. Hitting a pothole at high speed increases the chance of damage to tires, wheels, shocks, struts or springs. • When driving over a pothole-filled road, hold the steering wheel firmly to avoid losing control. • Do NOT brakewhen directly over a pothole. Applying the brakes causes the car’s weight to shift to the front of the wheel and can increase damage from the impact. • Beware of water that may be concealing a deep pothole.
About Smart Motors
Smart Motors was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer, is one of Wisconsin’s largest volume Toyota dealers and is Wisconsin’s largest Toyota Certified Used dealer. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. For more information visit their history page.
Is it worth it, really? Should I wash my vehicle, or just wait for spring? Under normal circumstances most vehicle owners love their car. It’s like an old friend, cheerfully waiting to take you where you need to go. But as the winter months in Wisconsin drag on, you find your feelings changing toward your tried and true buddy. To wash or not to wash; now that’s the question. What was once a summer time escape from reality, suddenly becomes a chore. Come February and March, if you have not washed your vehicle, it becomes salt-covered, sludgy, dishwater-hued beast that is almost indecipherable from most of the other vehicles on the road. And the worst part is you don’t know what you should do about it.
Part of you thinks you should probably wash the poor thing, but at the same time, it’s Wisconsin – it’s going to snow again, plus the streets are just going to be salted again. And on those rare breaks when the temperatures climb into the 40s, everyone and their uncle are in line to run their vehicles through the car wash. Do you just let it go?
Jason Vasen – Master Diagnostic Tech – Smart Motors – Madison, WI
“Salt may keep the streets safe to drive on, but it’s a terrible thing to have on your car for extended periods of time,” Vasen says. “Salt leads to oxidation and rust. It can take years off the life expectancy of your vehicle.”
Car Wash; Outside temperature matters
Vasen says Wisconsinites ideally should wash their cars, trucks and SUVs about once every two weeks even in the dead of winter though only wash when outdoor temperatures are in the upper 30’s or in the 40’s to ensure doors and windows won’t freeze. If you’re fortunate to have a heated or well insulated garage, you could push this to temps a little lower, but it’s always a good idea to dry off your vehicle as well. Pop the hood, open the doors, including hatch/truck and dry them off.
Not all car washes are created equal
“You want to make sure it’s a quality wash, too,” he says. “Just washing the pretty parts may save your paint job for a few years, but it’s incredibly important to make sure salt and slush are removed from the wheel wells and undercarriage.” A touchless car wash with an underbody high pressure spray option/cycle is what you’ll want to look for to help remove the salt, sand and grim from those hard to reach spots.
When salt builds up on the wheel wells and undercarriage, it attacks the vehicle’s braking system and suspension, both of which could lead to dangerous situations on the roads. They are both expensive to repair, too, so making sure they are salt-free could save you money down the line.
Clean wheel wells and undercarriage
“Drivers can also get ahead of the game through routine maintenance,” Vasen says. “Quality mechanics will check for any issues and lubricate or use corrosion inhibitors on parts as needed for the winter months.” And don’t forget wiper blades. They are an inexpensive way to ensure clear vision.
Did you know?
Where one parks during the winter can also play a role in how much damage is or isn’t done to a vehicle because of slushy and salty conditions. Ironically, vehicles parked outside for the duration typically experience less body damage than those that are garage kept. This is because the freezing temperatures do not allow the slush to melt, so it slows down the overall corrosiveness of the salt.
“Bottom line; regardless of whether you store your vehicle inside or outside, it really is worth the time, effort and money to make every attempt to keep it clean,” Vasen says.
Jason Vasen is a Master Diagnostic Technician at Smart Motors – Madison, WI, and was founded in 1908 by O.D. Smart and is one of the nation’s oldest automotive dealerships, is the mid-west’s largest hybrid dealer and one of Wisconsin’s largest volume Toyota dealers. Located at 5901 Odana Road, Smart Motors is Wisconsin’s only two-time President’s Cabinet Award recipient from Toyota Motor Sales for superior customer service & sales volume. See their history page for more details.
Consumers ‘Bang the Gong’ to celebrate the arrival of their new Toyota at Smart Toyota Madison WI.
Since early 2020, American consumers have had to come to terms with a new kind of normal. Products and services are not as plentiful as we’ve grown accustomed to. Covid-19 and the occasional freak weather patterns have wreaked havoc on a number of industries in many ways, especially in terms of shortages. The restaurant industry is struggling to hire viable and reliable employees. Grocery stores are out of products, specifically goods originating from meat-packing plants. And we all know how paper products like toilet paper were hard to come by for many months. Nearly all industries are having some growing pains adapting to the unavoidable changes taking place, including automobile manufacturers.
Madisonians have noticed the dearth of new vehicles for the past several months when they pass by Smart Toyota on Odana Road. What has been a car lot brimming with options for decades has suddenly become a sort of ghost town with only a handful or so of vehicles on the lot.
“It’s a very noticeable difference,” says Smart Toyota’s sales director Justin Jackson. “We normally have 400 or more new vehicles on the lot, but since mid-April 2021 we’ve seen a steady decline in the number of New Toyotas we have on the lot. Now we only have maybe 5 to 10 new vehicles physically at the store.”
Justin Jackson Sales Director Smart Toyota – Madison, WI
Jackson says the pandemic is partially to blame for the shortage because modern vehicles rely on computer chips which became scarce due to manufacturers reallocating them to industries other than automotive. Then, early in 2021 the issue in new vehicle manufacturing were winter storms that crippled Texas-based businesses that are critical in the manufacturing of foam for seats.
“If it’s not one thing it’s another,” says Jackson. “We’ve got the chips, but because of the power issues Texas faced in the Spring of 2021, we didn’t have enough foam padding for the seats, and today, as production ramps up, it’s supply chain and logistical issues.”
It’s Not All Doom and Gloom
Those looking to purchase a new vehicle seem to understand the slow-down in global manufacturing, Jackson says. Instead of getting upset they can’t drive off the lot with a vehicle they think is “good enough,” consumers are now more apt to customize and pre-order a vehicle specifically made to their specifications.
“It’s kind of cool how people have adapted,” says Jackson. “They might not get that prior sense of immediate gratification of new car ownership, but they get to experience something else: personalization.”
Jackson explains the process of pre-ordering has been well-received for a few reasons, one of which is the compassion the consumer feels about simple logistics as they relate to inventory issues in this day and age.
Vehicle Customization increases satisfaction
“They also really like the fact we can get them exactly what they want; from safety features and amenities, to color preference,” says Jackson. “And when their customized vehicle comes in – usually in about 45 days – they are over the moon when they see the Happy New Car Day sign bearing their name saying the car was made specifically for them. It takes ‘ownership’ to a whole new level.”
Custom Pre-Orders on the Rise
Jackson says about five percent of Smart’s new vehicle sales used to be custom ordered. Today the percentage has skyrocketed to about 50 percent of the dealership’s monthly new car sales. And, Jackson notes, when a consumer has all the customizable options at his or her disposal, no one opts for a base model in order to save a buck or two.
“Often times, though, it’s not options that are the most appealing aspect of pre-ordering,” says Jackson. “Instead, currently, there has been a surge in hybrid vehicle sales. And now in winter, AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicles will see a spike in popularity.”
If you know you are going to order a customized vehicle, Jackson says it might be best to do a little homework prior to meeting with a sales consultant.
“People take a lot of amenities for granted, but if you’re customizing, you should consider some of the following options,” he says.
Custom Pre-Order Checklist
Entertainment & Communications: think about your stereo system. Do you still need a CD player? How about satellite radio capability? Hands-free phone control? A video system? Navigation?
Comfort & Convenience: this includes upholstery, heated/cooled seats, power door locks, keyless entry, dual climate control, etc.
Safety: the simple rule of thumb is the more you can install, the more secure you’ll feel. If you can, opt for dual air bags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, and parking assist systems.
Appearance: the most enjoyable aspect of customizing is picking out your paint, trim, and wheels.
Performance: what do you need to get from point A to point B in your daily life? A larger engine? Sport suspension? 4-wheel drive? Automatic transmission or stick?
Jackson says while customers are not complaining right now about having to customize and then wait for their new ride, he anticipates their patience won’t last forever. However, he also doesn’t see new vehicle inventory returning to “normal” in the immediate future, and with customer satisfaction currently at such a high level he’s not overly anxious about it.
“At this point, we do not see ‘ground stock’ (vehicles physically on the lot) back to our previously average levels before the end of the year,” he says. “That could change, but we really don’t see it happening until late 2022.”
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