Toyota Sienna…Best Minivan on the Road

Published: April 27, 2012
Posted in Toyota Sienna

Herculaneum MOThe 2012 Toyota Sienna can’t get much better than this.  The Sienna took home the 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick award after receiving rave reviews from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  It has won the award for being the most dependable minivan for 2 years in a row.  According to jdpower.com The Sienna “received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among minivans in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011-2012 Vehicle Dependability Studies.”  The Sienna has also been coined as the “Best selling minivan in America” by motorintelligence.com.  What more evidence do you need as a buyer that the Sienna should be at the top of your list of contenders when in the market for a minivan?

The Sienna starts at $25,060 and its estimated mpg is 19/24.  It is available in five different models that will range in price and customizations that will meet everyone’s needs.  Models include; Sienna, LE, SE, XLE, and for the buyer who wants it all…the Limited.  One thing’s for sure, all models will be equipped to last a life-time.  Durability and reliability are never compromised across models.  Features available will differ across models, but that is what makes the Toyota Sienna such a great minivan in the market.  It can reach the needs of any buyer with any budget and with any need.

Most importantly, all models of the Sienna come standard with safety features that are top in its class.  Each comes equipped with the Star Safety System.  This includes enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brake system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology.

Contact your local Weiss Toyota dealer serving Herculaneum MO to schedule a test-drive for the 2012 Toyota Sienna today.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Official No-Talk Zone

Published: April 26, 2012
Posted in Toyota Cars

Ballwin MissouriI was driving to pick up my son from school yesterday and I noticed a car was pulled over and she was holding her cell phone.  It was apparent that she was receiving a citation for talking on her cell phone while driving in a school zone.  This gave me a sigh of relief…not that she was on her phone…but that my local law enforcement was actually doing something about it.  Every day I see children walking in and out of school and I see careless drivers who are too busy chatting, and yes…even texting on their phones when they should be watching for pedestrians.  I appreciate this state law and I think I’m not alone.

What can you do to be safe in your child’s school zone?  First of all…you should wait to take a call until you have exited the school zone.  No conversation is worth the life of an innocent child walking to school.  You should also look at the current technology that is offered to new or used cars that will keep you safe while driving and still allow hands-free options for your cell phone.  Toyota cars St. Louis offer state-of-the-art options for your car to be the safest on the road.  You can stay connected to those you need to be in contact with but most importantly you can concentrate on driving first.  These are options that can be included in your new car purchase and your local Toyota dealer can also help get you to the right place to have them added to your existing car, truck or SUV.  Of course, in a school zone cell phones are prohibited…hands free or not, and that is always the safest options while on the road.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Look At Toyota

Published: April 26, 2012
Posted in Toyota Cars

St. Louis MOSince unveiling its first prototype, the A1, in 1935 Toyota has been a top brand manufacturer of automobiles.  This Japanese brand founded by Kiichiro Toyoda has earned a reputation in the industry for being reliable and durable.  Buyers know that if they want a car that will stand the test of time then Toyota needs to be at the top of their list of choices.

By the end of the first decade of Toyota manufacturing more than 100,000 vehicles had been reproduced.  Toyota made its way to the United States in the early 60’s.  The Toyota Crown was the first Japanese car to be sold in the U.S.  We are all familiar with the Toyota Corolla, which was also created in the 60’s and is still a top selling Toyota car today.  The oil crisis of the 70’s is what really slung Toyota into motor-stardom as people were amazed at the fuel-efficiency that the manufacturer’s cars could achieve.

Toyota has vastly expanded over the last several decades and has created a line-up of every type of car, truck, van, and SUV that any consumer could ever want.  Toyota doesn’t just strive to manufacture the most reliable car in the industry, but they also strive to produce the most technologically advanced car in the market.  The Toyota Prius debuted in 1997 and was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid.  It is safe to say that Toyota is always one step ahead of the others.  It is true that you may have to pay a little more for the Toyota trademark however it is an investment that pays for itself in the long run.

Visit your local Toyota cars St. Louis dealer to check out everything they have to offer in their 2012 line-up.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Things to Know When Buying a Car…Part Three

Published: April 24, 2012
Posted in Toyota Corolla

Ballwin MissouriIn our previous two articles we have been addressing the important things to know when you set out to buy a car.  It may seem simple or even common-sense but according to edmunds.com, there is a lot of research to be done if you want to get the best deal available.

Something to consider when looking for a car is to watch out for unnecessary or overpriced add-ons.  Specifically, watch for these when you get to the finance department.  You may find additional fees for extra protection plans or warranties that have inflated premiums.  There is a simple way to combat this problem…ask questions!  If at any point in this process you feel that you are being taken advantage of, simply walk away.  You are sure to find a good deal in a great car down the road.  It is also very important to consider some of the aspects of car buying that may not seem so obvious.  Observe the level of customer service from all aspects of the dealership.  Make sure you actually like the people you are working with.  Chances are, your relationship with them won’t just end when you drive away from the lot.  You should also put a value on your time and consider how much it’s worth to you when you are driving from lot-to-lot trying to negotiate prices between dealers.

These are all steps to consider that will keep you one step ahead in the car-buying process.  We believe a car that carries the punch of the “whole package” is the all-new Toyota Corolla St. Louis.  Not only will you get more than you expected in affordability and fuel-efficiency, but you will also get great service.  Visit your local Weiss dealer, where you can be sure to avoid unnecessary fees!

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Things to Know When Buying a Car…Part Two

Published: April 24, 2012
Posted in Toyota Camry

St. Louis MOIn our previous article we began revealing the important things to know when you set out to buy a car.  According to edmunds.com it is important to understand the “whole picture” when buying a car.  There are many components to this picture.

Maximizing your trade-in is an important aspect in buying your car.  This should be simple…know how much your car is worth before you set out to look for a new one.  You can find many helpful websites that will evaluate your trade-in value with the click of a button.  Next, make sure you know the difference between legitimate and bogus fees.  Generally, you should have three legitimate fees.  They are state and local sales tax, a reasonable document fee, and motor vehicle registration fees.  If other fees pop-up it is not unreasonable for you to inquire about what they are for.  When you have a good idea about the fees other dealers in the area charge, this can become another area to negotiate with.  If you are financing your car you can also consider paying your sales tax and transfer fees directly to your state agency rather than having them rolled into the loan.  Call your local credit union or bank before you go out the dealers and get pre-approved.  They will be able to tell you what interest rate is available to you.

Consider visiting your local Weiss dealer to check out the Toyota Camry St. Louis.  After meeting with a finance expert you will find that loan companies will offer great rates on the Camry.  It is a car that will stand the test of time and that means even banks understand the reliability and are willing to make loans for this car more easily accessible.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Things to Know When Buying a Car…Part One

Published: April 24, 2012
Posted in Certified Toyota

St. Louis MOWhen you are in the market to purchase a new car there are many important factors to consider.  Some of these are common knowledge to the average buyer.  Other factors are ones that may not be thought of right off hand but are crucial to getting the best deal on a new car.  When you understand the whole picture, then you can have a good feeling when you drive off the lot in your new car.

So, what makes up the “whole picture?”  According to edmunds.com the first point to consider is purchase price.  Sounds simple right?…Not necessarily.  You must consider factors such as true market value, and you should decide if you are satisfied with paying an average price or if you are prepared to haggle to negotiate lower prices.  Remember that the dealer is there to make money too…and they can make that money in more ways than the purchase price.  Fees can be tacked on to other areas to make you feel like you have gotten a better deal so make sure you look at all areas closely.  The next point to consider is incentives and rebates.  They have become very popular in today’s market.  If you come across an incentive a dealer is offering, another dealer may be willing to match that, so keep that in mind.

One aspect that can be reflected in the purchase price of a pre-owned car or truck is whether or not the vehicle is certified or not.  When you shop at your local dealer, ask about certified Toyota St. Louis.  You will be able to purchase a pre-owned car with peace of mind that it has undergone rigorous inspections.  This will be one part of the car buying process that you won’t have to worry about.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Becoming Fuel Efficient

Published: April 21, 2012
Posted in Used Toyota

St Louis MOThe need to become more fuel efficient is plastered everywhere these days.  It is closely connected to the issues surrounding the environment.  Changing our behaviors in order to positively affect these issues is not an easy task.  First and foremost, many people do not believe their small changes will really make a difference in the grand scheme of things.  Secondly, these changes don’t come naturally.  People must begin to train themselves in behaviors they can begin displaying that will make a difference.  It may not seem like this you can make a difference alone but if everyone chose to make a few minor changes to their lifestyle, it would create a global effect.

One easy way that people can make a change on the environment is by evaluating the car they drive.  Not everyone is in a position to go out a buy a new hybrid or fuel efficient car.  According to AAA, the average person drives a vehicle that produces a fuel efficiency of 24.4 miles per gallon and they spend an average of 55 minutes driving in their car per day.  This number probably seems a little low for those of you commuting in and out of the city every day for work.

One of the most helpful tips that can be given to achieve optimal fuel efficiency in your used car is to maintain it and have it serviced as recommended.  Toyota is known for providing useful and up-to-date information to their drivers and as always, they are dedicated to providing the best service available.  To have your used Toyota St. Louis serviced and checked out for maximum fuel efficiency possible, contact your Weiss Toyota dealer today.  The cost of servicing your car now will definitely pay off in the future.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Published: April 20, 2012
Posted in Toyota Cars

Ballwin MOApproximately three years ago the National Safety Council called for a ban on all cell phone use, hand-held and hands-free, while driving.  Distractions while driving can come in many different forms but none seem quite as devastating as the distraction of cell phones.  This new generation of immediate communication is a large contributing factor.  In 2010 nearly 33,000 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents and approximately 3.5 million people were seriously injured.  The National Safety Council estimates that 24% of these involved the use of cell phones.  This is a problem that exists with adults and teenagers, but it is more prevalent among teens.

As a parent, there are some things you can do to educate your teen driver on the damage associated with such risky behavior.  First, show them the dangers by providing them with real-life reminders.  Have them read articles about teens that have been killed in accidents because of cell phone use.  Next, install safe driving applications on your teen driver’s cell phone.  Most carriers should have these available.  They allow you to turn on a “drive safe” option so your phone will not notify you of incoming calls or texts while driving.  It takes away the temptation of responding to a message alert.  You could also consider asking your teen’s school to participate in a distracted driving awareness program that would bring light to this issue and help educate young drivers on the reality of the dangers associated with driving and cell phone use.  If nothing else, you should make sure your teen’s car is equipped with technology that will make staying safe more convenient.  Toyota cars St. Louis are among the safest on the road and their engineers are constantly researching and integrating the latest technology to keep drivers safe.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Negotiator

Published: April 19, 2012
Posted in Toyota Dealer

Illinois MissouriWhen you think about going out to buy a new or used car, one of the concerns you may have probably revolves around the process of negotiations.  There are some tips you can follow to learn how to become a professional negotiator so you can keep your focus on the goal of car ownership.

According to NADA there are four rules of negotiating you should learn in order to stream-line this process.  The first step in negotiating is to do your homework.  Doing your homework involves many different steps.  Some important things to consider include; determining what you need, what you can afford, how you want to purchase (buy or lease), and read the reviews on the car make and model of your choice.  Step two is to get a quote.  You can submit price quote requests online or you can contact a dealer via phone, or in person.  Many experts suggest contacting through email first so you can get a good feel for the communication style of your sales representative.  Step three is to know the lingo.  Visit car dealership websites and look up the words you are unfamiliar with.  Examples of words to know include; invoice price, base price, and MSRP.  It is important to know the difference.  The last step is to negotiate the deal.  Make sure you know your limits and if you feel like there is room to work between the asking price and the price you would like to pay then confidently and respectfully present that price to the sales representative.

Toyota is known for respecting buyers and presenting rock-bottom price first in order to save you time and money.  Visit your local Toyota dealer St. Louis to put your negotiation skills to the test.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What to Look for when Buying a Used Car

Published: April 19, 2012
Posted in Certified Toyota

St. Peters O'Fallon MOWhen you are set out to purchase a used car there are probably a thousand questions and uncertainties floating around in your head.  Is it a fair price?  Is it going to be a reliable car?  All of these questions are valid and it is important to understand what to look for when you begin this process.

According to NADA there are specific steps to follow to make this process go smoother.  We have outlined a few of them here.  Step one is to find your car.  Utilize the web if possible where you will find an abundance of information on the type of car you have your eye on.  Step 2 is to research the value.  There are many different websites that offer car values.  It is important to be reassured that the asking price is also a fair price.  Don’t forget that when researching fair prices you must take into account the condition of the car.  Next, you should determine your budget.  Having a good handle on this before you drive on to the lot to start shopping will save you time and will allow you to be confident in your choices.  The last step we are highlighting here is to check for guarantees.  When you are buying a used car it will generally come with a standard 3-month/3,000-mile guarantee.  It may be worth it to you to shop certified where you will leave the lot with an extended warranty plan and a car that has been rigorously tested by the dealer.  Toyota offers one of the most competitive certified programs in the industry.  Contact your local dealer to learn more about certified Toyota St. Louis.

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

St. Louis Auto Center • 12345 Business Court • St Louis • MO • 63123

Sales: 877-987-1234 • Service: (888) 123-6789