Thursday, June 28, 2012
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Interbrand: Toyota named ‘greenest global brand’
Toyota remains No. 1 in Interbrand’s new list (view Interbrand’s old list) not only among auto companies but among all companies. Interbrand noted that the original Prius model, the launch pad for Toyota’s green image, has recently been expanded to include an entire family of sustainable automobiles.
Jez Frampton, global chief executive office of Interbrand, said it is crucial that consumers’ impressions of a brand are closely aligned to that brand’s actual environmental performance.
Interbrand said that the environmental progress of the auto industry was driven by “long-term goals of fuel efficiency, superior energy use, and the reduction of toxic emissions,” while tech brands also had a strong showing with Hewlett Packargd, Panasonic, Dell and Siemens taking spots 5 through 8.
courtesy of inautonews.com
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Avalon to Get First-Ever Hybrid
Toyota’s big new Avalon will be getting a hybrid drivetrain for the first time, the remake of the full-size sedan to share the powertrain line-up offered in the Japanese maker’s smaller Camry model.
The move underscores Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda’s goal of offering a gas-electric alternative in virtually all products sold for the Japanese giant.
Beyond the addition of a first-ever hybrid, the new Avalon is a significant departure for Toyota. First shown at this year’s New York Auto Show, the 2013 Avalon was developed entirely in the U.S. and features a striking new shape that’s a distinctive new look that’s a striking shift away from Toyota’s traditionally plain vanilla approach to styling.
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Set to go on sale late this year, the Avalon will be one of six new models or variants to get a hybrid. The maker earlier this year unveiled the compact Prius C, as well as a plug-in version of the original Prius hatchback.
The Avalon Hybrid will pair a 2.5-liter I-4 with two electric motors to produce up to 200 hp - and 40 mpg.
The gas-electric drivetrain in the new Avalon will be shared with the current Toyota Camry. That means a 2.5-liter inline-four engine paired with two electric motors. In combination they will produce 200 horsepower and the maker claims the Avalon Hybrid will be able to launch from 0 to 60 in just 8.5 seconds, reasonably quick for its class and one of the faster hybrids, in general.
Fuel economy is expected to come in at 40 City, 39 Highway and 40 Combined, though the EPA isn’t expected to make that official until closer to the launch of the 2013 Toyota Avalon line. Like other Toyota hybrids the full-size sedan will be able to creep along in electric vehicle mode at speeds up to about 25 mph for a maximum of approximately 1 mile.
Toyota is sticking with its familiar nickel-metal hydride battery chemistry, rather than migrating to more advanced lithium-ion, as many of its competitors have been doing. According to Avalon Chief Engineer Randy Stephens, NiMH batteries have proven their reliability and have a lower cost than lithium technology. But they also store less energy – limiting battery-only range, for one thing – and take up more space. In a vehicle as big as Avalon, however, space shouldn’t be much of an issue.
The Avalon Hybrid’s impressive fuel economy also reflects efforts to improve the sedans aerodynamics while also reducing its weight. The basic sedan is about 120 pounds later than the 2012 Avalon, despite plenty of added content. Even the Hybrid weighs about 23 pounds less than last year’s model.
The full-size sedan market has been undergoing some radical and unexpected changes in recent months. Hyundai kicked things off with a more lavish and stylish remake of its Azera. Chevrolet will follow for early in the 2014 model-year with an all-new Impala. And Ford is making some notable improvements in the big Taurus sedan.
The Avalon will, however, be the only hybrid in the segment, at least for now. That will get it a significant mileage advantage. The closest any competitor comes in terms of space and fuel economy is the Volkswagen Passat. Though officially designated a midsize it offers virtually as much interior space as the 2013 Toyota Avalon and, with its TDI diesel and a manual gearbox, yields 31 mpg City, 43 Highway.
Camry’s non-Hybrid XLS with a 2.5-liter I-4 will deliver 21 mpg City, 31 Highway and 25 Combined. The bigger 3.5-liter V-6, rated at 268 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque, is expected to get 21/31/24 mpg – while yielding 0 to 60 times of around 7 seconds.
Toyota won’t release pricing until closer to the launch of the 2013 Avalon.
courtesy of thedetroitbureau.com
Thank you for this stunning review! Happy Tuesday!
"We can barely express our sincere appreciation in all that Lisa De Bruzzi did for us recently (6-23-12) from our experience at Toyota Carlsbad. We are both absolutely overwhelmed with excitment. We went in to trade my 2003 Mercedes (our only car)in for a Rav 4 :)...I had been wanting one for my 3 grandchildren, shopping and of course our large furry dog Sedona. We never imagined that Lisa would help make it possible that John would also beable to get the Tacoma truck he so longed for for his work...I truly believe prayers and dreams do come true!
Lisa's devotion to the company and her clients is a special gift, not to mention her enthusiasm and personality! It was such a pleasure to work with her, and we will definitely be referring our friends and family to Lisa De Bruzzi and Toyota Carlsbad!
In addition our experience with the finance department was just has friendly and comfortable. We truly felt like family from the moment we walked onto the lot, till we drove away in our cars.
Thank you Lisa & Toyota Carlsbad!"
Monday, June 25, 2012
All-New 2013 Toyota Avalon Features Both Gasoline and Hybrid Powertrains
TORRANCE, Calif. (June 26, 2012) – When the all-new, North American designed and engineered 2013 Avalon goes on sale later this year, consumers can choose between a powerful V6 gasoline powertrain and Toyota’s proven Hybrid Synergy Drive. The efficiency offered by the new hybrid model will help the all-new premium mid-size sedan achieve excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rating of 40 mpg combined. In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.
Powerful, Efficient V6 Engine
The 2013 Avalon will feature a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, which will propel the new sedan to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness. This enhanced powertrain’s programming has been updated to offer ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. The ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. The SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit (ECU) programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel. In addition, the new transaxle is equipped with a numerically lower differential gear drive ratio (3.23), designed to help improve fuel economy. The V6-powered 2013 Avalon achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/ 31 hwy). The transmission operation has been made more efficient and responsive with the adoption of a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch. With lock-up control, the transmission’s torque converter fully engages at a lower RPM during standing starts to improve acceleration response and help suppress unnecessary engine revolutions. The new transmission is also kept at an optimal temperature with an automatic-transmission fluid warmer, helping enhance efficiency. The multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter offers a D range and can be moved into an S-mode gate, which allows manually operated sequential shifting using the console shifter or available (Touring and Limited models) steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear can be selected by moving the shifter up to (+) position or lower using the (-) position to experience highly responsive shifts. By using the paddles or in S-range, the transmission uses a quick responding shift-logic that includes throttle blipping for downshifts. The gear changes and range-of-gear selections are displayed in the color multi-information display. Avalon Adds Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
For consumers seeking a premium mid-size sedan with excellent fuel economy ratings and an environmental message, the new Avalon features a full power-split hybrid system. Coupled with reductions in vehicle weight and improvements in aerodynamics, the Avalon Hybrid is expects to achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. The 2013 Avalon incorporates the latest advances in Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, building upon Toyota’s 14 years of hybrid-development experience. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU, which governs the seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. The power control unit relies on liquid cooling to maintain an efficient temperature. The Avalon Hybrid achieves a total system output of 200 horsepower and offers three unique modes of operation: EV, ECO and SPORT. The Avalon Hybrid models achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg in the city, and a 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating. The 2013 Avalon Hybrid offers an EV mode that, under certain conditions, allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric propulsion. EV mode can be engaged, provided other conditions are correct, for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph, providing an all-electric option that is convenient in residential areas or parking garages. The ECO drive mode engages the gasoline motor, but reduces throttle response and HVAC output to help improve overall efficiency. The SPORT Mode takes full advantage of the new Avalon’s dynamic character, improved chassis, and enhanced suspension by altering the engine’s throttle response and enhancing steering feel. The Avalon’s hybrid’s battery pack is comprised of 204 cells and is located in the vehicle trunk behind the rear seats, while still providing ample trunk space. The scroll casing for the battery cooling system’s blower fan has been designed to produce extremely quiet and efficient airflow, helping reduce interior noise and elevating refinement. The power-control unit, located in the engine bay, houses the inverter, DC-DC converter. The efficient hybrid transaxle in the new Avalon contains two high-output electric motor/generators, a power-split device, an open differential and the final drive ratio. Motor/Generator 1 (MG1) is used to start the gasoline engine and generate the energy that is returned to the battery to power the system. Motor/Generator 2 (MG2) is primarily responsible for electric drivetrain propulsion and regenerative braking. The hybrid vehicle transaxle also incorporates a flywheel-damper design that helps reduce noise and vibration during engine engagement. Captivating Styling with a Spacious, Luxurious Interior Experience
The new 2013 Avalon is the product of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan’s striking exterior and luxurious interior design was conceived by a youthful, talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc., facilities in Southern California and Michigan. The car’s engineering development was led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focus, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Ky. True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon’s more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products. Powertrain Specs
| Avalon V6 | Avalon Hybrid | ||
| Gasoline Engine | Type/Displacement | 2GR-FE / 3.5L | 2AR-FXE / 2.5L |
| Max Horsepower | 268 hp | 154 hp | |
| Max Torque | 248 lbs.-ft. | 153 lbs.-ft. | |
| Transaxle | Type | 6-speed AT | E-CVT |
| Electric Motor | Max Output | - | 140 hp |
| Max Torque | - | 200 ft. lbs. | |
| Battery | Type | - | Nickel-Metal Hydride |
| Nominal Voltage | - | 245 volts | |
| Number of Cells | - | 204 Cells | |
| Max Output | - | 34 kw or 45.6 hp | |
| Total System Output | - | 149 kw 200hp |
Key Dimensional Comparison
| 2013 Avalon | 2012 Avalon | |
| Overall Length | 195.3 in. | 197.6 in. |
| Overall Width | 72.2 in. | 72.8 in. |
| Overall Height | 57.5 in. | 58.5 in. |
| Wheelbase | 111 in. | 111 in. |
| Front Tread | 62.6 in. | 62.2 in. |
| Rear Tread | 62.2 in. | 61.6 in. |
| Front Overhang | 38.8 in. | 39.4 in. |
| Rear Overhang | 45.5 in. | 47.2 in. |
| Curb Weight | 3,497 lbs. (V6), 3594 lbs. (Hybrid XLE) | 3,616 lbs. |
courtesy of toyotanewsroom.com
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Toyota Motor Corporation Outperforms Industry in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Initial Quality Study
Toyota and Lexus vehicles captured five segment awards and five Toyota manufacturing facilities in Japan and North America won plant awards, including one Gold, in the 2012 Initial Quality Study (IQS), more than any other automaker in both categories.
The study also found:
- Toyota has fewer problems than the premium brands industry average;
- 15 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion models ranked in the top three of the segments they compete in;
- Corolla is the highest performing non-premium model, it also ranks fifth overall;
- The all-new Prius v garnered second place in a closely contested segment; and
- The redesigned Camry scores even better than last year’s model
“We are very pleased with this year’s Initial Quality Study honors”, said Ray Tanguay, Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer Toyota Motor North America, Inc. “These accolades echo our enduring commitment to quality, value, and customer satisfaction.”
2012 Initial Quality Study performers by segment
| Segment | Ranking | Model | PP/100 |
| Sub-Compact Car | 1 | Toyota Yaris (total) | 79 |
| Compact Car | 1 | Toyota Corolla | 59 |
| 2 | Toyota Prius (total) | 75 | |
| Compact Crossover SUV | 2 | Toyota RAV4 | 84 |
| 3 | Toyota FJ Cruiser | 86 | |
| Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle | 2 | Prius v | 100 |
| 3 | Scion xB | 103 | |
| Compact Sporty Car | 3 | Scion tC | 127 |
| Entry Premium Car | 1 | Lexus ES350 | 69 |
| Midsize Crossover SUV | 3 | Toyota Highlander (total) | 86 |
| Midsize Pickup | 3 | Tacoma | 95 |
| Midsize Van | 3 | Toyota Sienna | 106 |
| Midsize Premium Crossover SUV | 1 | Lexus RX (total) | 67 |
| Large Car | 2 | Toyota Avalon | 87 |
| Large Premium Car | 1 | Lexus LS (total) | 50 |
| Lexus | 1 | 75 | |
| Toyota | 8 | 88 | |
| Scion | 26 | 117 | |
| Premium Brands Industry Average | 91 | ||
| Non-Premium Brands Industry Average | 103 | ||
| Industry Average | 102 | ||
2012 Plant Awards
| Region | Award | Assembly Line | Model(s) | PP/100 |
| Americas | Gold | Cambridge South, Ontario (TMMC)* | Lexus RX350 | 24 |
| Bronze | Woodstock, Ontario (TMMC)* | Toyota RAV4 | 27 | |
| Asia | Silver | Kyushu 2, Japan (TMK) | Lexus ES, IS, RX | 24 |
| Bronze (tie) | Fujimatsu, Japan (TABC) | Toyota Prius | 28 | |
| Bronze (tie) | Tsutsumi 2, Japan | Toyota Prius | 28 |
* Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC) has received more J.D. Power and Associates plant awards (11), including more gold awards (6), than any other North American plant in the industry.
Additional examples of Toyota’s commitment to the highest standards for quality, safety, reliability and retained value include:
- Eight Lexus, Toyota, and Scion models captured segment awards in the 2012 J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study, a performance equal to all other vehicle brands combined and more than twice as many as the runner-up nameplate.
- Lexus ranked highest in customer satisfaction among luxury brands and led the industry in the J.D. Power and Associates 2012 Customer Service Index (CSI) Study for the fourth consecutive year.
- 17 Toyota, Lexus and Scion models were named 2012 “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety: Toyota Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Prius, Prius c, Prius v, Sienna, Tundra (crew cab), Venza and Yaris (4-door hatchback); Scion tC, xB and xD; and Lexus CT 200h, GS and RX.
- The 2012 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Scion tC earned five stars for Overall safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the highest rating possible.
courtesy of pressroom.toyota.com
In honor of Toyota Carlsbad 40th Anniversary, Customer Susan Daughters was the winner of our Automotive Spa Package!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Hi there Toyota fans! Check out all these awesome specials for the month of June!
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
First 25 Winners Announced for Toyota 100 Cars for Good Program
Toyota today announced the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program, a national philanthropic program that is awarding 100 cars to 100 nonprofits over the course of 100 consecutive days. Winners are selected each day through public voting on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com.
Each day through August 21, five nonprofit organizations will be profiled on the 100 Cars for Good Facebook page. Registered Facebook users are able to vote once daily for the nonprofit they think can do the most good with a new vehicle. The organization with the most votes at the end of the day wins a new Toyota vehicle. The four runners-up each receive a $1,000 cash grant from Toyota.
“We are delighted to announce the first 25 winners of the Toyota 100 Cars for Good program,” said Jim Lentz, president and chief executive officer of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Toyota created the 100 Cars for Good program because we appreciate what a big difference a new car or truck can make for organizations working to improve lives and strengthen communities across America. It’s been very gratifying to put the public in the ‘driver’s seat’ to select the winning organizations. 100 Cars for Good has also allowed Toyota to build on more than half a billion dollars of support the company has provided to nonprofits throughout the United States. We wish all of this year’s finalists the best of luck.”
The first 25 100 Cars for Good winners represent a cross-section of important local causes, including providing nutritious meals to kids, helping communities struck by natural disaster and alleviating the suffering of abandoned, abused or injured animals.
The first 25 winners in Toyota’s 100 Cars for Good program are:
| DC Scores | Washington, DC | May 14, 2012 |
| Cincinnati Zoo | Cincinnati, Ohio | May 15, 2012 |
| Lehmi County Humane Society | Salmon, Idaho | May 16, 2012 |
| Pibbles & More Animal Rescue | Ridgewood, New York | May 17, 2012 |
| Recycled Doggies, Inc. | Cincinnati, Ohio | May 18, 2012 |
| Hope for Paws Animal Rescue | Los Angeles, California | May 19, 2012 |
| The Dream Center | Los Angeles, California | May 20, 2012 |
| SPCA International's Operation Baghdad Pups | New York, New York | May 21, 2012 |
| Petfinder Foundation | Tucson, Arizona | May 22, 2012 |
| Together We Rise | Chino, California | May 23, 2012 |
| The Children’s Lunchbox | Anchorage, Alaska | May 24, 2012 |
| All Hands Volunteers | Carlisle, Massachusetts | May 25, 2012 |
| Detroit Dog Rescue | Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan | May 26, 2012 |
| Fences for Fido | Portland, Oregon | May 27, 2012 |
| Central Vermont Humane Society | East Montpelier, Vermont | May 28, 2012 |
| Operation Blankets of Love | Granada Hills, California | May 29, 2012 |
| Kristie’s Foundation | Anaheim, California | May 30, 2012 |
| K9 Services German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. | Middleburg, Florida | May 31, 2012 |
| Animal Aid, Inc. | Oakland Park, Florida | June 1, 2012 |
| Clark County Community Services | Winchester, Kentucky | June 2, 2012 |
| Shore Hearts Golden Retriever | Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey | June 3, 2012 |
| Special Olympics Illinois | Normal, Illinois | June 4, 2012 |
| Last Chance Ranch | Quakertown, Pennsylvania | June 5, 2012 |
| Rikki’s Refuge | Rapidan, Virginia | June 6, 2012 |
| Feed My Sheep | Gulfport, Mississippi | June 7, 2012 |
Winning organizations can choose from the following vehicles: Camry Hybrid, Highlander SUV, Prius v Hybrid, Sienna minivan, Sienna Mobility or Tundra full-sized pickup. A six-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty will also be provided for each vehicle, compliments of Toyota Financial Services.
The 500 finalists, from which the 100 winners are ultimately selected, were certified by an independent panel of judges who are experts in the fields of philanthropy and corporate social responsibility.
Follow 100 Cars for Good on Facebook at www.100carsforgood.com and on Twitter at #100cars.
courtesy of toyota.com
Friday, June 8, 2012
Thank you for this great review! Have a wonderful weekend!
"The quick summary is that my experience with Alex Ordonez in Sales and then with Luis Maldonado in Finance was exceptional and I would, without hesitation, purchase another vehicle from Alex at Toyota of Carlsbad.
Over the last 16 years I have purchased 11 cars from various new car dealerships and in the past 5 this has amounted to 2 BMWs, 1 Mercedes and 2 Toyotas. Additionally my first job out of college, a number of years ago now, was as a car salesperson as part of one of the larger automotive groups in the U.S. (which I don't even mention when I am purchasing a car). In short, I have had a fair amount of experience when it comes to automotive sales and my recent experience at Toyota Carlsbad stands well above all of my other purchases.Specifically, Alex has a very calm demeanor and is about as low pressure as you are going to find in car sales. Additionally since Alex has his own office, it created a very comfortable environment to have our conversation/negotiation. Luis in Finance also deserves a mention as well. The guy was funny, and did not try any of those standard Finance practices of trying to sell me useless products. If you are considering a car purchase, I would add Toyota to your list of vehicles to consider and have a conversation with Alex at Toyota Carlsbad."Thursday, June 7, 2012
Toyota Motorsport GmbH Brings Electric Technology to Pikes Peak
Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) will demonstrate its high-performance electric powertrain technology on one of North America’s most demanding motorsport events; the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado on 8 July.
Last year TMG set a new electric lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife with the road-legal TMG EV P001 car, a record which still stands today. TMG’s advanced electric and electronic department has spent the past months developing on an updated electric powertrain, which is more powerful and more durable than its predecessor. That high-performance electric powertrain is the heart of the new TMG EV P002 car, which will compete at Pikes Peak as part of a project from Japanese company RK1 Inc. Multiple Japanese rally champion Fumio Nutahara will drive the car which features prominent branding from Yokohama. Based on a Radical chassis, the TMG EV P002 has a predicted top speed of 240km/h in Pikes Peak configuration, with combined maximum power of 350kW from its two axial flux motors. The hillclimb, which begins at an altitude of 2,800m and reaches the summit of 4,300m, is an ideal environment to showcase the strengths of an electric powertrain. TMG’s high-performance electric powertrain maintains full power despite the thin atmosphere at high altitude while delivering an impressive 900Nm of torque through its single-speed gearing. The TMG EV P002 underwent a successful three-day testing session at the Paul Ricard circuit in southern France in May to verify car and powertrain performance. Ludwig Zeller, General Manager Electric & Electronics: “Pikes Peak is a great showcase for TMG’s electric powertrain technology. We already proved at the Nürburgring that TMG is leading the way in developing such powertrains for motorsport and this is another sign of our commitment to this technology. TMG wants to be increasingly involved in electric motorsport and we believe our powertrain technology is an industry-leading combination of performance, durability and packaging. Electric powertrain technology in motorsport is still in its development phase but through projects like this one, TMG is laying the foundations for the future of high-performance and motorsport cars.” courtesy of toyota.com
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Toyota fans: Check out these oil change tips!
Review these Oil change tips and some unique oil change advice from a mechanic in reference to changing engine oil yourself. Changing your own engine oil has some advantages over going to a quick lube center but it is not right for everybody.
The oil change service is a simple operation on some cars and harder than it should be on others. Either way it is very important to your vehicle's longevity and should be performed as recommended by the manufacturer whether it gets done at a repair shop or in the driveway.
The quick lube center is in the business of doing oil change services extremely fast. This usually involves the oil change mechanic rushing to complete the repairs as soon as possible.
You on the other hand can devote an hour to change your own engine oil. This will result in an outcome based on quality not speed. When you're oil change service is done properly the engine will last longer and provide better trouble-free performance.
Not to mention the flexibility to use better quality materials if you choose to. Some lubricants claim and show proof that they can increase fuel economy for the life of the vehicle. The following oil change tips are things that I do myself on every oil change.
Oil change tips number one
I will then let the automobile set for another 20 minutes and allow the engine to cool. This also allows the engine oil and deposits to settle into the bottom of the oil pan. Allowing the engine oil to circulate before an oil change is a good idea because it can remove some last minute dirt.
Before I remove the drain plug I will pull out the engine oil dipstick and carefully feel the temperature of the dipstick and the engine oil to make sure it's not too hot and not too cold. When the engine oil is cold it becomes thick and drains slowly. When the oil is hot it comes out fast but you run the risk of burning yourself during the oil change service.
Oil change tips number two
When I am changing my own engine oil on my Chevy Blazer or even my wife's Toyota Corolla. I do not lift or raise the vehicle. The main reason for this is safety concerns and convenience.
The most dangerous part of being a do-it-yourself mechanic is lifting your vehicle in your driveway without the proper equipment and safety precautions. If you can avoid dragging out your floor jack and your jack stands and remain safe at the same time. You're much better off. On the two cars that I own lifting the vehicle is not necessary for changing the oil.
Yes I do have to lay on the ground and reach under the vehicle to access the drain plug and the oil filter, but it can be done. This may not be possible on all vehicles, but you should certainly take a look and see if you can reach the oil filter and the drain plug without raising the vehicle. If you can, this is the best way to go.
Oil change tips number three
This is a good time to check and top off your fluid levels and perform a visual inspection of belts and hoses. The bulk of the oil comes out within a minute or two, but the oil will continue to drip from the drain plug area.
The dripping engine oil may be small in quantity, but has the highest concentration of dirt and debris. Because we have let the oil settle before we started the maintenance service most of the dirty oil and sediment has reached the very bottom of the oil pan.
This is one of the main advantages of doing the oil change service yourself at home. Taking your time and doing the best possible job while at the same time, enjoying some quality time with your beloved automobile. I call my car Christine!
A quick oil change center that works on volume will often just drain the bulk of the oil and then jam the plug back in and refill the fluids. This method winds up leaving the dirtiest of the oil in the bottom of the pan.
The undesirable remnants of the old stuff are then mixed with the fresh oil and reduce the quality of the oil change service. But since we are do it yourself mechanic's, we can take the extra time and allow the dirtiest of the engine oil to drain from our oil pan.
courtesy of auto-facts.org
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Honda, Lexus take top spot in ALG’s annual measurement of perceived quality among consumers; Toyota’s reputation continues to rebound
Ford and Hyundai have had the highest level of improvement in perception of quality among all automakers during the last 5 years according to ALG, the industry benchmark for vehicle values. Since 2008, Ford’s perception of quality has improved nearly 37%, while Hyundai’s perception of quality has increased by 25% during that time period. The release of ALG’s 2012 Perceived Quality Study (PQS) shows Ford ranking fourth, with Hyundai above the mainstream average.
Honda ranks highest among mainstream brands with a perceived quality score of 81.3, followed closely by Toyota, whose perception of quality continues to recover from its drop in 2010. Toyota showed the largest year-over-year perception improvement of any brand. Honda and Toyota continue to be the perception of quality standard bearers among mainstream brands, with Subaru ranking third.
Among luxury brands, Lexus is highest ranked for the second consecutive year, with a perceived quality score of 85.4. Three European brands – Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche round out the top four.
“Changing the perception of quality is a long-term proposition,” said Eric Lyman, ALG’s Vice President of Residual Value Solutions. “Consumers recognize the product improvements made by Ford and Hyundai. Honda and Toyota are still widely recognized as being the quality leaders, but as more consumers increasingly consider brands like Subaru, Ford and Hyundai, that perception gap erodes.”
Other brands showing significant year-over-year improvement include Fiat, Scion, Dodge and Kia.
“Kia and Dodge are great examples of perception improvement based on product and marketing,” said Lyman. “Both brands have launched exciting new product and impactful messaging. While they both face significant history to overcome, consumers are beginning to recognize their improvement.”
Now in its fifth year, ALG’s Perceived Quality Study is a semi-annual consumer survey measuring the perceived quality of automotive brands. PQS reports the opinions of more than 3,000 U.S. consumers in order to gauge perceptions of mainstream and luxury brands. PQS is one of the metrics ALG examines in calculating our industry benchmark residual values, helping companies and consumers understand the future value of their vehicles.
About ALG
Based in Santa Barbara, California, ALG is the benchmark of vehicle value information to the automotive industry. ALG publishes the “Residual Value Guidebook” – the standard for residual value projections in North America, and has been forecasting automotive residual values for nearly 50 years in both the U.S. and Canadian markets. For more information, visit www.alg.com.
Promotional use of this information may be used only with the express permission of ALG. Contact marketing@alg.com for additional information.
courtesy of alg.com
Friday, June 1, 2012
Toyota Prius sheds niche status, vaults into global top 3 sellers
Toyota Motor Corp.'s Prius, a niche oddity when it went on sale 15 years ago, jumped to the world's third best-selling car line in the first quarter as U.S. demand and incentives in Japan turned the hybrid into a mainstream hit.
Prius sales more than doubled as Toyota extended the name to a four-model "family" of vehicles at the same time that rebates and tax breaks in Japan are saving buyers the equivalent of $2,500 or more.
In the quarter, sales soared to 247,230, trailing only Toyota's Corolla, at 300,800, and Ford Motor Co.'s 277,000 Focus sales.
The Prius surge, after two years of recalls and production disruptions, propelled Toyota back into the global sales lead for the first three months of the year.
The hybrid line also gives the Toyota brand three of the top 10 models in the United Status so far this year, including its mid-sized Camry.
"It proves Prius wasn't a fluke, that there's a long-term market for hybrids," said Eric Noble, president of the Car Lab, an automotive consultancy in Orange, Calif.
In the aftermath of last year's earthquake and tsunami that cut parts and auto production for Japanese carmakers, the government in December began encouraging purchases of fuel- efficient autos to reverse sagging domestic deliveries.
Rebates of as much as 100,000 yen ($1,258) are available from a 300 billion yen fund for qualified cars, including the Prius hatchback, wagon, plug-in and Aqua subcompact, sold in the U.S. and elsewhere as the Prius c.
Tax savings further reduce the purchase price by another 100,000 yen or more. The average price for a Prius in Japan is about 2.5 million yen and around $25,000 in the U.S.
Hot little car
Aqua has become the car of the moment in Japan, helping more than triple Prius family sales in the country to 175,080 in the first quarter, from 52,507 last year.
While funds for the rebates may run out in July if the government doesn't extend them, the tax reductions continue through 2015. "It was good that introduction of Aqua and the start of government subsidies happened almost at the same time," said Koichi Sugimoto, senior analyst at BNP Paribas in Tokyo, who recommends that investors hold Toyota shares.
He added that there's more to the success than the government incentives.
"Toyota is introducing good vehicles and assuming it will maintain a certain volume even after the subsidies end," he said. The Prius line topped other high-volume car models including Hyundai Motor Co.'s Elantra, Volkswagen AG's Golf, Ford's Fiesta, General Motor Co.'s Cruze and Honda Motor Co.'s Civic, according to the companies.
Global lead
Toyota ranked as the world's largest automaker by sales from 2008 to 2010, before the natural disasters pared its global production and deliveries.
Sales of Toyota, Lexus, Scion, Hino and Daihatsu vehicles grew 18 percent to 2.49 million in the quarter, Toyota said in a U.S. regulatory filing this month.
That put it ahead of GM's 2.28 million and VW's 2.16 million, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
CEO Akio Toyoda has said the company founded by his grandfather is "turning the corner" after a couple of difficult years. The company endured record recalls in 2010 in the United States, its biggest single market, for floor-mat and gas-pedal flaws that caused unintended acceleration.
'Clearly coming back'
"You are seeing a company that is clearly coming back," said Efraim Levy, equity analyst with Standard & Poor's Capital IQ in New York. "For Prius to sell in that kind of volume, something that's been a niche product, it's an achievement."
Since the start of Prius sales in Japan in 1997, Toyota has sold 4 million hybrid-electric vehicles worldwide, including 1.5 million in the United States, the company said on May 22.
In the United States, typically Toyota's top market for Prius, sales jumped 42 percent in the first quarter, and 56 percent through April to a record 86,027.
U.S. sales of the model since its 2000 introduction, including the new variations, total 1.18 million vehicles, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
Global sales increased 125 percent.
Prius sets a standard of success for alternatively powered cars, including Nissan Motor Co.'s all-electric Leaf and GM's Chevrolet Volt, which has a gas-burning generator on board to extend the range of the electric-drive car.
The sales pace for Prius isn't likely to be matched soon by any other hybrid models, said John Wolkonowicz, an independent analyst in Boston who specializes in automotive history.
Defines the segment
"It's the phenomenon we saw with Chrysler and minivans: It brought out the first minivan and after all these years, Chrysler still is minivan sales leader," he said. "Prius was the first hybrid on the block."
The Prius line's current global popularity provides marketing benefits, Wolkonowicz said.
"Being No. 1 is important for advertising purposes; it provides a comfort factor that, for Prius, can be significant," he said. "It provides a 'why buy?' reason for customers who may be on the fence."
The top-selling vehicle line in the United States for the past 30 years has been Ford's F-Series pickup truck, which includes F-150, F-250 and other models.
Toyota's Camry has been the top-selling car in the United States for 10 years.
Toyota's decision to give the car a distinctive wedge shape that some car enthusiasts dislike has also been a long-term benefit, Wolkonowicz said. "Even grandmas who don't know cars know what a Prius is," he said.
Everybody's green car
The appeal of Prius has as much to with how it's now a de facto brand within Toyota, positioned as the top "green" choice, as the car's actual fuel economy, Noble said.
"Prius is a Prius first and a Toyota second," he said. "The fact it's doing well this year is a reflection of the strength of the model line and the Prius brand."
While the current rate suggests U.S. drivers may want to buy 250,000 or more Prius models in 2012, the region may not get more than its planned 220,000 units.
"I've ordered additional production," Bob Carter, Toyota's group vice president of U.S. sales, said in a May 7 interview. "I'm confident we'll get additional production, but globally we're seeing high demand, particularly in Japan."
Gasoline prices in the United States averaged $3.68 a gallon on May 22, down 6.6 cents from $3.94 on April 5.
A continued price decline doesn't favor hybrid sales, said Wolkonowicz.
"You're going to see hybrid sales drop again in U.S. as gas prices fall," he said. "Hybrid sales won't truly take off in the U.S. until we get to $5 gas and it stays."
Toyota's American depositary receipts slid 0.5 percent to $76.80 at the close May 25 in New York. They've risen 16 percent this year through May 25.
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