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Winter time, especially in the more northern states like Pennsylvania, can be tough on cars. As a caring car owner, you're probably looking for ways to protect your beloved vehicle throughout these harsher months, so that you can cruise right on into the spring without a hitch. Your wheels and tires should be a part of your winter maintenance list, so here's how you can keep them protected this season. Wax Your Wheels Regularly Road salt, dirt, and grime can cling to your chrome wheels and cause them to erode and rust. Much like the body of your car, your wheels can be waxed to protect against this specific type of damage. Use a chrome-friendly product to coat your wheels in wax when they are clean. After you've applied the wax, you'll find that dirt and salt can be rinsed right off your wheels. more Just be sure to wax and clean your wheels regularly, as even dried salt can cause continued damage to this part of your car. High-pressure hoses can be used to blast away this grime, providing your wheels with the ultimate protection. Have Your Tires Aligned Disguised potholes, snow piles, and other winter hazards can cause the alignment of your tires to get out of whack. When this happens, your car can tend to lean or pull to one side, thus causing the tires on one side of your car to wear faster than the others. In order to prevent this from happening, you can have your tires aligned by a professional. You'll find that your car is better balanced, and you can drive that much more safely this winter. Keep Your Tire Pressure In-Check Lower temperatures can cause the air pressure in your tires to go down. Not only does this decrease the fuel efficiency of your car, but it can also cause your tires to wear faster as they have more contact with the road. Most cars have electronic tire pressure displays, which makes the task of keeping your tire pressure in check that much easier. However, an old fashioned tire pressure gauge can always help you determine whether or not your tires have enough air in them. Double-check the suggested tire pressure of your vehicle by locating this information on the inside of your driver door panel or in your car's manual. Use the Appropriate Tires for the Season It can be difficult to protect all-season tires from winter weather simply because they are not built specifically for that type of driving condition. Secure your car with the appropriate winter or snow tires, and keep a set of tire chains in your vehicle just in case. Doing so will better protect the longevity of your tires as well as increase your own safety. With these tips, you should be able to protect your wheels and tires from the unforgiving winter weather. When the weather starts to warm back up, have your winter tires changed out for your summer or all-season set. Also be sure to visit your local mechanic to ensure your car is safe to drive after enduring the snow season. Image via Pixabay

It's never a simple decision when it comes to purchasing a new truck, but the 2017 Toyota Tundra could make things a whole lot easier. The popular car maker is putting out an updated version of the already-favorite pickup for the new year. If you're in the market for a new truck, here's what you should consider about the 2017 Tundra. Powerful Performance First things first: let's talk performance. The 2017 Toyota Tundra was designed with ultimate performance in mind, and you aren't going to be disappointed. These bad boys are equipped with either a 4.6- or 5.7-liter V8 engine. The 4.6-liter option packs 310 horsepower and has 327 pound-feet of torque, while the latter engine option has 381 horsepower and a whopping 401 pound-feet of torque. more Of course, depending on the trim level you choose for your Tundra, the maximum towing capabilities will vary. Some trim levels, for instance, can handle up to 10,100 pounds. The towing package comes standard with most Tundras and includes a TOW/HAUL switch, a towing hitch receiver, an Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, and so much more for all your hauling needs. In the Interior If what's under the hood wasn't awesome enough, the interior of these trucks takes it all to a whole new level. Some models of the 2017 pickup come with leather trim seats, a power sliding rear window, and even a moonroof. Strategically placed controls, luscious seats, and features like a dual zone automatic climate control make the cabins of these trucks so luxurious and comfortable, you'll forget that you're driving a pickup. An in-dash display and standard backup camera make parking and backing out a little less stressful on you. You can also use these displays with integrated navigation options, surfing through all your favorite tunes, and so much more. You won't even have to take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road to operate this system either, as it comes equipped with Bluetooth and voice-activated technologies. Aside from the 7-inch display, you will also find another 3.5-inch informational display just behind the steering wheel. In one glance, you can get a full understanding of your truck's speed, mileage, fuel economy, and distance to empty. This display will also inform you when there's an aspect of your truck that needs maintaining, so that you can stay as safe and efficient on the road as possible. Safer Than Ever When you're on longer trips or hauling bigger loads, safety is more important to you than ever. Toyota understands this, which is why the car maker has included top-notch safety features in the latest Tundra. Driver assist technologies, like blind spot monitoring, innovative airbags unique to the Tundra, and the Star Safety System suite of safety features can all the be found in these pickups. These are just a few of the amazing features you can find in the 2017 Toyota Tundra. If you're looking for a truck that can do it all, the Tundra might just be the right choice for you. Image by RL GNZLZ is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Whether you lease or outright own your Toyota, chances are, you want to keep your beloved car looking good throughout the wintery season. The cold weather and all that comes with it can be harsh on many aspects of the vehicle, including the paint job. The following tips can help you protect your Toyota's finish in the winter, so that your car can keep looking as good as new. Protecting Against Road Salt When there's snow and ice, there's also road salt. This substance can be your paint job's worst enemy, as it tends to cling to the car and doesn't seem to ever go away. In order to protect your vehicle from road salt, add a layer of polymer wax to your car's exterior the next time you have it washed. more This extra layer provides a shield between your Toyota's paint job and that pesky road salt. Be advised to still keep your car clean throughout the winter, which you'll find much easier when you've used wax. The Benefits of Pressure Washing Every so often, you can consider pressure washing your vehicle during the winter. Yes, the wax will protect against salt and grime, but that doesn't mean these substances won't cake onto your vehicle. Pressure washing will blast away this dirt, warding off rust and erosion in even the most hard-to-reach places, such as your car's undercarriage and wheel wells. After pressure washing, of course, be sure to add a new layer of wax for continued protection. Dry Your Car Thoroughly It would be difficult to keep your Toyota dry after every snowfall, but you should dry the exterior thoroughly after washing. Otherwise, that hard water will sit on the surface of your vehicle, which could be bad for your paint job as it could leave behind water spots. Use rags that are 100 percent cotton or sheepskin, as materials like microfiber and polyester can actually scratch your car. Be Careful When Removing Snow and Ice Clearing ice off of your windshield and blankets of snow off of your car every morning can become tedious, but it is important to your paint job that you do so carefully. Consider using soft bristled brushes or even foam brushes to remove snow and avoid scratching your car. Proceed with caution when using an ice scraper on your windows, as well. You wouldn't want to slip and scratch your car's exterior. The Wonders of Spot Cleaning After a long or particularly rough drive, don't be afraid to spot clean your vehicle. Wash away road salt near your wheels, wipe off spots that are caked in icy mud, so on and so forth. After spot cleaning, you can use a spray-on wax to protect these same areas. Once the snow clears once and for all, and the weather starts to warm back up, consider having your vehicle detailed by a professional. This will ensure that there are no remaining deposits of grime from the winter that will silently erode away your car's finish. You can drive on into spring in a flawless Toyota. Image via Pixabay

Replacing tires can seem like a cumbersome and expensive event, costing car owners hundreds of dollars. It is even worse when it is an unexpected expense. It is never recommended to wait until the last minute to get new tires and drivers should most certainly avoid driving around with a donut for more than 70 miles. The harsh weather of the winter increases the wear and tear on car tires, making it even more important to monitor their ability to withstand the season. Many people may put it off, but here are a few reasons why purchasing tires designed for winter weather might be advantageous. Quick Brake The winter terrain is not to be taken lightly. Along with winter comes the potential for more ice, and in some regions, many inches of snow. Winter tires will help drivers to navigate among rough terrain and keep them safe. The unique tread is designed to enable vehicles to stop safely while driving down slippery roads. The tires themselves may cost a little more, but it is well worth it. more Get a Grip Winter tires are also made with a special rubber that allows them to grip the road more efficiently. According to Auto Blog, this flexible rubber maintains its agility on the road. While other tires may harden as a result of the cold weather, these tires become more formless to fit the landscape. This is also an important safety feature. Be Prepared Certain regions are more likely to have winters with large amounts of snow and ice. These are the areas where winter tires have the most impact. Drivers who frequent the roads daily during the winter months can minimize their risk by making a small investment. Top of the line tires may be purchased for $160 to $200 per tire. Although this amount seems substantial, the benefit of being prepared far outweighs the potential for car damage or replacement. Multiple Uses The greatest thing about winter tires is that they can be removed and replaced. Many buyers mount winter tires around September and store them after the winter season has ended. The reason for this is the fact that many cars exceed their tread capabilities during the winter months. This leaves way for many risky road trips. Smart drivers can minimize this risk and improve safety by deciding to replace their tires throughout the year. This may seem like an unnecessary task, but it will help to prevent the stress that comes along with filing insurance claims and paying deductibles. Option or Necessity When all of the pros and cons are considered, it is easy to decide that winter tires are a necessity. It is worth the extra expense each year and should be a part of the car maintenance budget. This will allow families to enjoy the good things about the winter like holiday shopping, family dinners, and vacation travel. The car will be able to safely maneuver through any kind of weather, and the ability to feel safe and sound during the most exciting time of the year is indeed priceless.   image via Pixabay

Thanksgiving is here again! People across the country hit the road for holiday travel and safety should be a top concern for all Ardmore and Philadelphia, PA families. The fine people at Buckle Up For Life have rolled out an updated list of the Top Thanksgiving Car Seat Tips. Pinch Test One easy way to test out if your child's car seat is tight enough is to use the "Inch and Pinch" test. This simple test is easy to perform; simply pinch the strap of the car seat near your child's shoulders. Grab a pinch of fabric, then tighten the strap until you're sure it is snug. Then, grab the car seat near the bottom and gently pull the seat to ensure it is secure. If your child's car seat is moving more than an inch, then you should tighten it. Secure Items One overlooked safety tip involves securing items that you'll be storing during travel. People often fail to secure items like luggage, gifts, turkeys, and more. In the event of an accident, many of these items could become hazardous to passengers inside the vehicle. more Face the Right Direction Always make to sure that your child's car seat faces the correct direction for their age group. Children under the age of two should remain in rear-facing child seats or until they exceed weight and height capacity. Remove the Coat Many parents forget to remove their children's heavy winter coats when buckling them in their car seats. If your child is wearing a heavy coat, make sure to remove it so the harnesses and safety belts fit as intended. Avoid Rental Car Seats Avoiding car seat rental is one of the travel tips from Buckle Up for Life that encourages travelers to take advantage of free safety seat checks from airlines. If you need to travel, call your airline ahead of time and inquire about their specific policies on checking a car seat for your child. Image via Pixabay

Psychology Today says shopping is an effective way to reduce stress and build confidence. Dressing for success is often suggested among professionals. For many others, outward appearance correlates with internal harmony and happiness. Shoppers can meet friends and connect while browsing through stores and may even burn a few calories along the way. No matter which way you look at it, shopping is a good thing if the funds are available. Those who are looking to test out these age-old theories can find plenty of popular shopping destinations in the Ardmore area. Doctor's Orders One popular destination well aligned to evaluate this theory is Suburban Square. It is a popular space located at Anderson and Coulter Avenue. This diverse space features top retailers like Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Kate Spade, Sephora, and the GAP. It also offers an assortment of fresh foods within its Farmers Market. Visitors can enjoy seafood, produce, baked goods, and sushi in this authentic market. There's nothing like a few hours of shopping coupled with a pleasant lunch nearby. In fact, Suburban Square has been in the business of delivering retail therapy for quite some time. It opened in 1928 as one of the earliest shopping centers in the country. It is a unique space that also includes several businesses and boutiques, in addition to Soul Cycle's indoor bicycling facility. The hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Sunday. Hours are extended to 9 p.m. on Wednesday and Friday. more Soothing Design Shoppers who are interested in an awe-inspiring experience and creative wear might enjoy Past Present Future. This shop located at 15 W Lancaster Avenue features frames, jewelry, ceramics, wearable art, and glass works. They can even design custom pieces for those who are looking for a way to stay stress-free. What better relief than a one of a kind necklace personalized for that special someone? The store hours are Monday to Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A Prescription for Fun One visit to PucciManula and visitors will surely feel uplifted and contented. Upon entering this retail destination, shoppers will be astounded by dangling Giraffes and massive Teddy Bears. This is not your average toy store. It is a fun way to shop, while sparking the kid within. Classic books, timeless toys, and handcrafted jewelry items are just a few of the great things shoppers might find here. Only Scrooge himself would find a reason to be unenthusiastic about this form of retail therapy. Beat the Blues Whether browsing for top brands or attempting to find inspiration, it is all readily available in Ardmore. The Suburban Square offers a dynamic architectural setting and retailers that are widely popular. Shoppers can also catch a workout or a lunch afterward. Past Present Future might temp a little craftiness and rouse creativity, which are both ways to beat the blues. In the event of an emotional catastrophe, PucciManula can surely transform a bad day. Ardmore offers plenty of options for shoppers looking to test these theories. There are many great retailers in the area. Image via Pixabay

As more drivers begin to understand the true value of a hybrid vehicle, they are gaining popularity in the car buying market. These cars are proving to be perfect for drivers who are looking for ways to save money and decrease their carbon footprint. It just makes sense. As hybrid vehicles continue to gain momentum, Toyota has readied its 2017 hybrid models just in time. Buyers will find that these new models offer much more than what meets the eye. In the Mode, Not Mood The 2017 Prius Prime Plug is one of the most talked about cars of the year. It ranked in the top three among other plug-in hybrid competitors. Its features include multiple motors, a unique clutch, and an expansive electric range of over 50 miles. The three driving modes also separate this vehicle from many others. Drivers can select either EV Mode, EV Auto mode, and Hybrid mode. This allows them to manage battery use. With prices as low as $19,500, Toyota has proven that it's on the right track. more Hybrid Meets Classic Another popular hybrid option is the new and improved 2017 Camry. At first glance car buyers are sure to be allured by the classy sport mesh front grille, LED highlights, and chrome trimmings. They can experience the infusion of hybrid frugality and luxury in motion for under $27,000. The hybrid SE model offers fuel efficiency with city mpg of 40, customized wheels to improve fuel economy, and a convenient energy monitor available within the dashboard. Room for Adventure The 2017 Avalon Hybrid offers additional space for drivers requiring a little more room. This full-size sedan is fully loaded with Toyota's trademarked Hybrid Synergy Drive system and an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECTV). Drivers can expect high performance, enhanced safety, upgraded technology features and a distinctive new look for under $38,000. Untouchable Prudence Families looking for stellar safety ratings and features might meet their match with the 2017 Highlander Hybrid. It received top ratings from the insurance institute for highway safety. With room for seven, energy-efficient windows, 27/28 miles per gallon, and a high-powered V6 engine, the Toyota Highlander is not your average family car. Its Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) status make it a well-rounded choice among competitors. Nothing Spared The 2017 RAV4 Hybrid tops it off with a full list of features to complement its cost efficiency. Drivers will surely be impressed by the 27-mpg fuel economy averages, in addition to tons of other cool features. The 7-inch display makes it easy to heed warnings of blind spot obstructions, access satellite radio stations, or avoid traffic with the navigation system. Seats with massage functions, top speeds of over 110 miles per hour, and an upgraded exterior are just a few of many stand out features. These five new models for 2017 prove that Toyota's innovation is still in motion. From the moderate and trendy Prius prime to the feature rich RAV4 hybrid, buyers can find just what they are looking for. Luxury, style, and affordability has arrived. Image by Pixabay

It is apparent that the winter season has officially arrived when the temperatures drop and it takes a little more time to warm the car in the mornings. Many families prepare for the season by going coat shopping, winter-proofing their homes, and pulling their sweaters out of storage. For singles, the preparations might involve a few extra blankets and a Netflix subscription. Although the weather change requires certain preparations, cold weather doesn't necessarily mean that everyone is forced to stay in. In fact, there are plenty of fun outdoor activities near Ardmore, Pennsylvania. 1. Say Hello to Santa There is no better way to celebrate the season than a visit with Santa. The Ardmore fire company hosts an annual tree lighting each year. This year's event will take place on Saturday, November 26 th from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can expect an assortment of smiles, holiday cheer, arts and crafts, and entertainment all within the Suburban Square courtyard at Anderson and Coulter Avenue. more 2. Shopping for Unique For those seeking unique items to decorate their homes or one of a kind gifts, the award-winning Clover Market is a top choice. Each year, the market hosts incredible events where authentic vendors can present merchandise. Visitors can find a large variety of cool items like creative art, handmade jewelry, distinctive clothing, and home décor. They can also enjoy a few fun activities for the kids. The winter market takes place in January at the 23 rd Street Armory. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 3. Something Brew What better way to warm those cold toes and fingers than beer? The Winter Beer fest happens each year just in time. On November 26, those with an acquired taste for bubbly beverages can enjoy a wide assortment of cold brews for under $50. There's also huge assortment of food and gift items available during two session from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 to 9 p.m. Last year's list included Weyenbacher, Forgotten Boardwalk brewing, and Susquehanna brewing. 4. The Scenic Route Valley Forge National Historic Park is another great way to kick off the season. Those who love the outdoors can enjoy over 60 miles of terrain fit for bike riding or casual strolls. They can also learn a little history while they are there. One of the parks most memorable events during the winter is the March in of the Continental Army that takes place on December 19. This occasion is marked by a night time camp simulation and a visit by General Washington. The Park is conveniently accessible from I-75 or I-95. Whether visiting the Ardmore area or making long-term relocation plans this winter, everyone can find a reason to get out and enjoy the season. Singles can take a long walk at the historic park nearby or taste test various brews of beer at the Winter Beer Fest. Families can browse unique offerings or take photos with Santa Claus. The list continues. There is always something to do in this town and winter is just the right time to put on a coat, boots and a scarf and head outdoors. Image via pixabay

On October 25 th 2016, Ardmore Toyota, Central City Toyota and the Enterprise Center hosted a Halloween Harvest at the Max Paul Park & Walnut Hill Community Garden. Children from all over the local area came to the Harvest for pumpkin painting, spider making, face painting and fun fall lawn games! Healthy and delicious snacks such as carrots & hummus, ginger snaps, popcorn and green smoothies were available for the kids to try and enjoy. Locals musicians also came around and shared their music with the community. A fun time was had by all! The Halloween Harvest was a great way to initiate autumn! We look forward to the next holiday inspired event at the Max Paul Park & Walnut Hill Community Garden, presented by Ardmore & Central City Toyota and the Enterprise Center and invite you to come around and enjoy the festivities!

Originally a railroad suburb of Philadelphia, today Ardmore, Pennsylvania, is a thriving town in its own right. With its welcoming, friendly nature and a variety of shops, restaurants, parks, and historical sites, Ardmore offers a pleasant escape from busy Philadelphia. Here are four things you should be sure to do when in Ardmore. Catch a Show at Ardmore Music Hall Ardmore is home to one of the best music halls in the Philadelphia area, Ardmore Music Hall. This independently owned venue hosts live acts ranging from rock to roots, Americana to adult contemporary. With a huge dance floor, comfortable seating, balcony viewing, and a full bar stocked with 21 delicious craft beers, Ardmore Music Hall appeals to music lovers across all demographics. And with its convenient location right near the Main Line train station, only three miles from Philadelphia, it's the perfect place to spend a night on the town. more Grab a Brew at Tired Hands Brewery The craft brewery industry is booming across the country, and Ardmore is no different. This small town is home to a couple of breweries, but Tired Hands rises above the rest with its hyper-local, small-batch beers inspired by French and Belgian farmhouse ales — not to mention their fresh bread, baked on-site, that's served up with an assortment of local meats, cheeses, and seasonal produce, as well as a variety of house-fermented pickles. Tired Hands has two locations in Ardmore — the Tired Hands Brew Cafe downtown is the original location, and Fermentaria is a new production facility that offers up to 12 beers on tap along with a menu of elevated pub standards, all housed in a repurposed trolley repair shop. Browse the Wares at the Ardmore Farmers Market Located in Suburban Square, an open-air shopping center that was one of the first shopping centers in the country, the Ardmore Farmer's Market is a permanent market that offers a mouth-watering variety of fresh produce, meats, gourmet cheeses, flowers, baked goods, and more. The market is open every day of the week, making it a great place to grab lunch or to just take a sensory stroll. Take in Some History at Pont Reading The Philadelphia area has a deep history, and Ardmore features some excellent sites for history buffs to enjoy. Among these is the Pont Reading House, an early American home that exists today in the same form as it did in 1813. Some estimates date the original log cabin structure to as far back as 1683, but the house continued to be expanded and improved over another 130 years. Today, it's considered one of the nation's most well-preserved examples of an early American home. From 1803 to 1838, the Pont Reading House was the home of Joshua Humphreys, a marine architect who designed several well-known ships for the early U.S. Navy, including ships used in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Whether you 're a fan of live music, craft beer, gourmet foods, U.S. history, or a little bit of everything, Ardmore has something for you. Image via Pixabay

Philadelphia is one of the most historically rich cities in the United States, from its founding in 1682, to its central role in the American Revolution and the Declaration of Independence, to its activity in 20th century labor movements, and beyond. However, the area's historical significance doesn't stop at the Philadelphia city limits — surrounding towns such as Ardmore, Haverford, and Bryn Mawr are also home to historic sites dating back to the country's founding. Here are three of the best historic sites to be found in Ardmore and nearby towns. more Harriton House A visit to Bryn Mawr's Harriton House is a trip back in time. This home dates back more than 300 years, to 1704, when it was constructed by Welsh Quakers. The house's claim to fame, however, is as the home of Charles Thomson, the Secretary of the Continental Congress, which was the country's acting government during the American Revolution. Today, it is a National Register of Historic Places site, a museum, and a park. Visitors can learn about the site's history in the Education Center and explore the beautifully curated grounds that feature gardens, an apiary, an orchard, and livestock. The Harriton House also hosts a number of educational and social events throughout the year, such as the Harriton Farmstead Fair, blacksmithing classes, and a summer camp for children. Pont Reading House Ardmore's Pont Reading House is considered one of the most well-preserved examples of an early American home in the United States, and when you visit the home you'll quickly understand why. The home stands today in the same form as it did in 1813, having passed through ownership of only two families in that time. Its interior is finely crafted with curly maple woodwork, veined black marble mantles, and high ceilings. From the exterior, visitors will enjoy the ivy clinging to the home's white walls, large hemlock, ash, and swamp maple trees, and beautifully landscaped flower gardens. The appeal of the Pont Reading House goes beyond its age and architecture — this historic site was also the home of Joshua Humphreys, the "Father of the American Navy." Humphreys was a Philadelphia shipyard owner and marine architect who designed several ships for the early U.S. Navy, including ships used in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Federal School On Darby Road in Haverford stands one of the earliest schools in the area, the Federal School. Originally constructed in 1797, this one-room fieldstone building served as a Haverford Township school until 1872, after which it functioned as a residence for some time before being relegated to a storage shed until its restoration in 1976. Since 1991, the schoolhouse has served as an educational site for the Haverford Historical Society and local schools, hosting "One-Room School Experiences" where local schoolchildren can experience what school was like in the late 18th and 19th century. The historic site is also open to the public by appointment. Next time you're in Philadelphia, don't neglect to wander outside of the city to explore the deep heritage of the surrounding region. Image via Pixabay

Ardmore Toyota is celebrating Show Your Stripes Day! October 14 th is the big Show Your Stripes day - this campaign is a great way to show community goodwill, support an amazing cause, and garner much-needed funds and awareness for the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House. Participating is easy. On Friday, October 14th, wear your red and white striped items in support of the Ronald McDonald House families. Then post your best photos by tagging the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House (@philarmh) and using the hashtags #ShowYourStripes and #MyPRMH. Everyone at our Ardmore Toyota location will be showing our stripes! We also invite you to join us at 12:20pm at the Philadelphia Art Museum for the “largest Show Your Stripes photo ever”! Friends and families are all welcome to join us!