Mechanics Hate Us

The word Prius in Latin means, “to go before” and that definition could not be a better fit for Toyota. With Toyota’s main foes still lagging behind in the hybrid class, the Prius is now on its 3^rd generation. With advanced solar technology, excellent fuel economy, and a very economic price-tag it’s no shock the Prius is one of the top selling gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles on the market today. The Prius uses a unique powertrain which allows the Prius to produce higher gas mileage with lowered emissions which is excellent in cities that have strict emission specs.

If your looking for a used Toyota Prius Thousand Oaks or a Honda Accord Coupe Thousand Oaks look no further than Honda of Thousand Oaks. They have the biggest selection of new and used cars and is also a Thousand Oaks Acura dealer.

The Prius is a hatchback that seats five easily, the motor is made up of a 1.8L gasoline engine that puts out 98hp and 105 pound-feet of torque. Pooled with the electric motors and a exclusive planetary gearset that acts as a CVT. The combined motors total a 134hp output. When maximum power is needed both engine systems work together, in city traffic the Prius switches back and forth typically working on only battery power. All these things combined, gives the Prius an industry leading 50 mpg, Toyota’s competitors are left behind scratching their heads.

The Prius II is the base model and offers the Hybrid Synergy Drive system, LED taillights, electric rear window defogger, rear spoiler, AM/FM/CD player, power door locks, remote keyless entry system, fabric trimmed seats, fabric trimmed door panels, four-way adjustable passenger seat, passenger seatback pockets, cruise control, instant fuel consumption gauge, touch tracer display, Eco/Power modes, dual-compartment glove box, under-floor stowage, and fifteen-inch alloy rims.

Upgrades available on the Prius III, IV, and V include: projector-beam halogen headlights, integrated fog lights, solar powered ventilation system, driver and passenger water-repellent side windows, Bluetooth wireless technology, DVD navigation system, leather-trimmed seats, Lane Keep Assist, steering wheel mounted Bluetooth, and 17-inch alloy rims.

All Toyota vehicles come with the Star Safety System, which includes enhanced VSC, traction control, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist. The Prius also enlists other safety selections, including: Safety Connect, advanced airbag systems, energy-absorbing crumple zones, seatbelt warning systems, LATCH child restraint system, hill start assist control, motor immobilizer, and center high-mount stop lamp.

If you are searching for a fuel efficient, roomy, well-powered car the Prius is exactly what you are searching for. With 50 mpg and an economic price tag it’s hard to beat Toyota in the hybrid class.

Outdoor recreations are enjoyable and healthy for the whole family. Nature refreshes the brain and soothes the body. Shoving the whole family, luggage, coolers and even Spot into the car can be so aggravating it throws out the fun in going anyplace. The 2010 Honda Element will melt all your worries away. This funky looking SUV has optimized the room that is available for use in its box like construction. Seven years ago Honda planned to have the Element be a hit with the college students. With all this SUV has to offer, even parents and families are appreciating the extra space the Element has to offer. You can find the Honda Element and other used cars Thousand Oaks at your local dealer.

The trim levels of the 2010 Honda Element are the LX, EX and SC. The LX comes with a height adjustable driver seat, air-conditioning, tilt steering wheel, keyless entry, four speaker CD audio system, folding and removable rear seats, full power accessories, cruise control, and 16-inch wheels. Also sand, dirt and mud will not be a difficulty to clean with the moisture resistant seats and urethane floors. The EX trim will include a center console with removable storage box, seven speaker audio system with MP3 capability, axillary jack, satellite radio, a cargo area 12-volt power outlet, 3 compartment overhead console, steering wheel mounted audio controls and sixteen-inch alloy wheels. The SC trim is geared more for a street car with its unique fabrics, copper-colored gauges, black interior trim pieces, passenger carpeting, exclusive center design, custom grille, monochromatic paint scheme, lowered sport suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels. With the SC package your neighbors will be turning their heads as you ride down the street. To fit Spot’s needs, you can opt for the canine friendly package which has an enclosed kennel and related accessories. To find the Honda Element and other used car Thousand Oaks and new trucks Ventrua, check your local Honda dealership.

The 2010 Honda Element is perfect for the outdoors type of family or the suburban mother. Opt in for the canine package and bring everyone along for a carefree adventure that everyone can appreciate. Complaining about leg and arm room will not be an issue anymore with the Element. Let all your problems disappear and invest in the 2010 Honda Element.

Scared of driving in the rain? Thousand Oaks used BMW Oxnard in an effort to help drivers so the used BMW Thousand Oaks dealership has compiled this list of summer driving advice for rainy situations to distribute at their used BMW Thousand Oaks CA dealership.

As with many automobile problems, it is best to be prepared before a problem occurs. The easiest way to avoid an accident on a rainy road is to make sure the automobile is ready for the task.

First, keep the tire pressure at the factory recommended levels and make sure each tire has uniform pressure. Even one pound of pressure asymmetry can have a serious effect on steering and braking in adverse conditions. Replace any tire that is showing wear indicators or balding on the edges.

To be extra safe have the suspension, brakes and rear end inspected by a certified mechanic for correct operation. These systems work together to create a smooth and predictable ride. If there are any problems on dry roads, know that they will be worsened on a rainy day.

A high-quality set of windshield wiper blades is an uncomplicated way to provide safe driving in nasty weather. High-end blades are great if money is no object, but new OEM blades are a serious improvement over old blades. A chemical treatment like Rain-X is a great additional step to see the road no matter what the weather.

Finally check that all of the blinkers, headlights and tail lights are working. Bulbs are cheap, so replace them in together for piece of mind driving. Scuffed lenses can be treated with a assortment of products available from any parts store, and rubbing compound works well if nothing else is available to clear-up old lenses.

Once the vehicle is road ready, time to rethink how to drive in the rain. First off, slow down. That seems simple, but with the hustle and bustle of everyday life many drivers continue to speed even when braking distance, stopping distance, and driver communication are all compromised by rain.

Second, try not to brake and steer at the same time. This keeps the vehicle’s weight centered over the tires and improves handling.

Finally there is no shame is pulling off to the shoulder if conditions get horrible. Let yourself be a little bit late if it means arriving alive.

When it comes to buying a used Nissian Oxnard CATitan or even used cars Thousand Oaks CA Murano Thousand Oaks Honda is the place to go.

Three generations into Nissan Cube’s existence, and it has finally reached the USA, Honda’s Element, Scion’s xB, and Kia’s Soul arrived here with first dibs on the market. The Cube rides atop a shortened Versa framework a Versa cubed and all four models of the Cube manufactured by Nissan are front wheeldrive only, and powered by a 122-hp, 1.8-liter four cylinder.

The 2010 Scion xB compact SUV is a front-wheel drive wagon with a one piece hatch back. A 158-horsepower 4 cylinder 2.4 liter engine fastened to either a four speed auto transmission or the five speed manual transmission. Reviewers are proned to note the similarities in the 2010 Nissan Cube and the Scion xB or Kia Soul, but the reality is that nothing looks the same as the cube’s excellent rounded-box features of the brand new Nissan Cube. For Nissan, 2010 marks the second year that the Nissan Cube has been presented in the USA, even though last three generations were offered in Japan since the early 80s. Most visible in the cabin of the amazing Cube is a wave effect that stands out in the headliner, visors and is repeated in the bottoms of the cup holders. This little touch can seem a bit overbearing, but buyers have all reacted positively after taking a look at the greatlooks of the nightclub lounge theme.

The Nissan Cube is loaded with a great selection of basic safety items, including ABS with brake assist and traction-control and non-skid systems. Standard seat mounted front and side airbags, and full-length head-protecting curtain airbags keeping all passengers safe. Talks have been made about Nissan coming out with an AWD, electric propelled rear wheels to help the front wheels for better traction in the rain, that’s great for new owners. Nissan has also talked about a fully electric car based on the Cube, though it won’t be on hand for consumer purchase until 2012 in the USA.

Old man winter is almost gone and the sun rays are breaking through the clouds, which means it is time to open the garage and wake the summer car from its hibernation. The Factory Certified Technicians at Honda of Thousand Oaks have put together some tips that can save any driver time, money, and headaches this summer.

The obvious first step is checking the tire pressure. Seasonal temperature changes affect tire pressures. Improper tire inflation affects ride quality and safety; remember that an over-inflated tire is just as bad as an under-inflated tire. Don’t forget to inflate the spare tire and check that the roadside tools (jack, lug-wrench, and wheel lock if necessary) are working properly.

Next make sure all of the fluids are full including radiator fluid, motor oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windshield washer fluid. Make sure to pay special attention to the HOT and COLD level indicators and only fill to the proper line. There is no benefit to overfilling your fluids

Check that the battery is fully charged and the terminals are free of corrosion. Nothing is worse for a car battery than high heat combined with high humidity. Most auto parts stores will test a battery for free.

An oft-overlooked piece of safe summer driving is the condition of the windshield wipers. They should be free of cracks and the steel hooks should be clear of the windsheild surface. A new set of wiper blades costs around $20 and can really take the worry out of summer driving.

Lastly check the serpentine belts for cracks and tightness. A constant squeaking is the early warning sign of impending belt failure. This belt typically runs the A/C compressor, alternator, and water pump so keeping a close eye on it can be the difference between a good running car and a ruined summer.

If you don’t want to do your own pre trip inspection bring your car to Honda of Thousand Oaks’s Service Department. Trust the experts. Using OEM parts in a professional shop staffed with factory certified technicians, Honda of Thousand Oaks can insure a safe and problem-free summer road trip. There can be lots of stress planning a summer trip, but a solid inspection can provide assurance that your vehicle won’t be a problem.