Baby On Board: Safe Driving Tips for Baby Safety Month

A baby is one of life's most precious gifts, and as a parent your child's safety is your top priority. In honor of Baby Safety Month, our Springfield Toyota dealership and service center is sharing important tips for keeping your baby safe and comfortable in the car.

Leave Your Phone in Your Bag 

Using a cell phone while driving is very unsafe and even illegal in most states. The National Safety Council estimates cell phone use while driving causes 1.6 million accidents a year. Texting and driving is the cause of 1 in 4 car crashes. To avoid the temptation to use your cell phone while driving, always leave it in your bag or safely stowed out of reach. If you must use your phone, pull over at the next parking area or gas station. The "No Cell Phones While Driving" rule should be practiced whenever you're behind the wheel, even if your baby's not on board. 

Use the Right Car Seat 

There are many different car seats to choose from, and you need to select the one that properly fits your car, has a good safety rating, and is right for your child's age and size. Children must be restrained in a rear-facing car seat until age two or until they exceed the height and weight limit, which should be displayed on the car seat. Remember, car seats should always be placed in the back seat. Never leave the baby on your lap or in the front seat while driving. To ensure your car seat fits your vehicle and is installed properly, contact your local public safety department for a free car seat check. For more advice on choosing the correct car seat, visit SafeKids.org. 

Register Your Car Seat 

Once you've founded the right car seat for your baby, you need to register it with the manufacturer. Registering your car seat will ensure you are immediately notified if a defect has been identified and whether repairs or replacement are needed. 

Attach Toys to the Car Seat 

Providing your baby with toys during the ride is key to keeping him occupied and entertained. But, toys won't do any good if they're on the floor and out of your baby's reach. Not to mention, loose items can be a distraction for the driver and potentially cause harm to you or the baby in the event of an accident. Be sure to only provide safe, soft toys and tether them— along with your baby's pacifier— to the car seat to keep them within his reach. 

Install a Backseat Mirror 

A rear-facing car seat in the backseat is the safest place for your baby in the car. But, a rear-facing seat can make it difficult to keep tabs on your baby while driving. A backseat mirror gives you peace of mind by allowing you to safely glance at your baby to ensure he's comfortable and safe. 

Pull Over for Feeding Time 

Do not nurse or feed your baby in a moving car; always pull over at the nearest rest area, gas station, or parking lot. Feeding while driving impedes the safety of you and your baby, as well as others on the road. Fumbling for a dropped bottle poses a distraction for the driver, and if you baby chokes you will not be able to react quickly or safely.  Always pull over to allow your baby to eat and drink safely and comfortably.

For new parents, driving with your baby can be a little overwhelming. Keep these tips in mind to keep your baby safe when you're behind the wheel.

Important Vehicle Maintenance Tips for National Car Care Month

April is National Car Care Month! National Car Care Month reminds drivers to spring into action and perform vehicle maintenance and repairs to ensure their car's running at peak performance. 

During the spring, drivers should address any issues that have occurred or gone ignored during the winter, and take the necessary steps to get their vehicle ready for summer. Like with fall and winter, this time of year brings its own set of hazardous, such as wet, slick roads. It's critical to have your vehicle ready for the rain to avoid accidents and other issues. 

Get your car ready for the warm season with our car care tips at Autoland in Springfield. While some of these steps can be performed yourself, others require a skilled auto professional. To ensure your car's in tip-top shape, take it to our car dealerships in NJ for service and repairs.  

Give It a Thorough Cleaning

Winter driving will cover your car's undercarriage with road salt and other grime that can cause corrosion, and eventually rust problems. Use a high-pressure garden hose to loosen and remove winter grime. For a more thorough cleaning, use a jack to raise your car. 

Salt and dirt can also damage your car's paint, so you'll need to give it a good cleaning as well. Once you give your entire car a wash, apply a paste or liquid wax. Then, use a steam cleaner or rug cleaning spray to remove salt and grime from the interior. Inside the hood, wipe down the engine with a soft cloth and soapy water and remove any leaves and debris.  Also clean the battery with a toothbrush, baking soda and water to remove residue buildup. 

Rotate and Examine the Tires

You should have your tires rotated every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. It's a good idea to have your tires rotated as part of your spring maintenance routine. Also, check your tires for signs of wear and tear and inflate them to the proper level, which can be found in the owner's manual. Keep in mind that cold weather can cause under-inflation, while warm weather can cause over-inflation. Don’t forget to carry a spare tire and jack in the truck, and make sure they are in good condition.

Inspect the AC

You probably didn't use your air conditioner much during the winter, but you'll certainly need it come summer. Make sure your system is operating properly; run it to confirm it's blowing cold air, and look out for any odd noises or odors. Have it inspected by a certified technician to assure it's running efficiently and won’t fail on a hot summer day. 

Check the Windshield Wipers & Fluid

Wiper blades work hard during the winter. A wiper blade's life expectancy is between six months to a year, so they should be examined in the spring. If your windshield wipers are worn, leaving streaks, making strange noises, or failing to make full contact with the windshield, then it's time for a replacement. Also refill the windshield wiper reservoir if necessary.

Test the Battery, Plugs and Wires

Your car can't run without a battery, and it gets a real workout during the winter. Cold temperatures require your battery to work harder to provide the same amount of heat and energy. This is the reason cars often stall after being left in the cold and snow for a few days.  Test your battery, plugs and wires to ensure they are operating properly, and replace any parts that are old, worn or damaged.

Examine the Brake System

Your car's brake system is the most important safety feature and needs to be inspected in the spring. Winter can take a toll on your brake system, so examine the entire system, including the lines, hoses, brake pad, and parking brake, to ensure they're in pristine condition. Also fill the brake fluid to the proper level.  

Follow these spring car care tips to be certain your vehicle is ready to tackle the warmer weather. To have your vehicle serviced by our certified technicians, visit our dealership located on Route 22 in Springfield or call (877) 537-6035.

Winter Driving Tips for Preventing Accidents & Breakdowns

Though this winter has been mild thus far, this weekend New Jersey and the rest of the northeast are expected to experience some major snowfall. At the onset of this potential storm, we wanted to provide you with some advice for staying safe on the roads. Winter conditions, including snow, ice, sleet, hail and high winds, make driving more dangerous and require extra precautions to be taken.

Pavement friction and vehicle maneuverability are reduced in snowy, icy and slushy conditions, which can increase the risk of a crash. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 24% of all weather-related vehicle accidents happen on snowy, icy, or slushy pavement, resulting in more than 1,300 deaths and 116,800 injuries annually. Similarly, 15% of accidents occur during snowfall or sleet, leading to nearly 900 deaths and 76,000 injuries each year. Along with accidents, winter conditions can also lead to other issues, including flat tires and breakdowns.

To help you prevent accidents and breakdowns this winter, follow these safe driving tips from 1800 Auto Land, the dealership of choice for New Jersey auto sales.

Winterize Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is winterized. In addition to the tips found here, there are other ways you can avoid issues on the roads:

• Ensure your gas tank remains at least half full in below freezing temperatures.
• Keep your antifreeze and windshield washer reservoirs filled to the proper level.
• Monitor your tire pressure to ensure it remains at the appropriate level, which can be found in the owner's manual.
• Make sure your windshield wipers are efficiently removing snow and slush from the windshield. If there are any streaks, it's time to replace them.
• Clear your vehicle of snow and ice before hitting the road. This means clearing the windshield, side mirrors, rear windows, headlights, and even the roof of your car.
• Have your vehicle professionally inspected and serviced to ensure everything's in tip top shape.

Check Your Route

If you'll be driving farther than the corner convenient store, check your route. While main roads and interstates are likely to be plowed following a storm, backroads may contain potential hazards, such as ice, sleet or fallen branches. Check the road conditions and weather forecast of where you'll be traveling to ensure the roads are safe for driving. If the road conditions look bad or there's a storm looming, it's best to stay home.

Drive with Caution

In winter conditions, you need to drive more cautiously. This means driving at a slower speed and avoiding sudden movements so that you can maintain complete control of your car. On snowy and icy roads, you'll need to give yourself more time to turn, brake, change lanes or accelerate. Also remain alert in case you need to stop or slow down. 

Prepare an Emergency Preparedness Kit

In the event of an emergency, stay stocked on emergency supplies. Prepare an emergency preparedness kit that includes water, non-perishable food, an extra set of clothes, a blanket, a flashlight, batteries, a radio, a first aid kit, and anything else you may need if you get stranded. If you use any of the supplies, be sure to restock.

By following these winter driving tips, you can reduce your risk of accidents and breakdowns and stay safe on the roads.

The Best 2013 Toyota Models Currently Available at Car Dealers in NJ

When choosing a car for your family, it's important to know about the different models available so that you can make the best choice. Car dealers in NJ like Autoland have a wide selection of 2013 Toyota models that are eco-friendly and perfect for your family. Below are a few of the best vehicles we currently have to offer.

Toyota RAV4

If your household is also exploring outdoors and going on trips, the Toyota RAV4 is a fantastic choice. With eight airbags for total safety, the RAV4 comfortably seats five along with plenty of cargo. With 31 MPG on the highway, this SUV gets you there in luxury without breaking the gas budget.

Toyota Camry

Living in an urban environment requires a different kind of car. The Toyota Camry is a fully featured, mid-size sedan that gets 35 mpg on the highway and even has a hybrid variant. This car has proven reliability, and many owners have driven this car well past 200,000 miles. The excellent engineering provides power and great handling in even the toughest conditions. With low maintenance needs and lasting durability, the Toyota Camry is a winning choice.

Toyota Prius

One model that can fit any family's needs is the Toyota Prius. With an impressive 51 mpg in the city, this spacious car can fit a family of four along with plenty of groceries, bikes and other things families need. With a 6.1-inch touch screen and USB port, this car has plenty of playability for long trips. If your family has a long commute to work, school, the store, or anywhere else, no car will save you money like the Prius.

Autoland is one of the best car dealers in NJ that carries these Toyota models, along with many others that may be right for your family. Driving a new Toyota is the best way to find out what model will work best for your lifestyle, come into our dealership and test drive today to see just how perfect a new Toyota car, van, or SUV can be for your household.

Looking for a Quality Car Dealer in NJ? Come to Autoland!

If you're looking for a quality car dealer in NJ, come to Autoland, where value and price make the difference! At Autoland, we carry a vast selection of brands ranging from Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge to Toyota and Scion. We are centrally located on Route 22, near Route 24 and Interstate 78 as well as the Garden State Parkway. Look no further than Autoland for the best selection and the most affordable prices in the tri-state region in new cars and trucks along with certified pre-owned cars.

We have something to fit the needs of any taste and budget. From the budget-conscious Corolla, which is the best-selling car in history, to the practical Yaris, or the sporty Dodge Dart, you are sure to find what you need at Autoland. If practicality and style are what you need, consider the Dodge Avenger or the Toyota Camry, which is the best-selling car in America.

Looking for an SUV to carry plenty of people? We have a vast variety to choose from, ranging from the 4Runner to the Durango and from the popular Liberty to the full-sized Sequoia. If luxury is what you are looking for, there is the Toyota Avalon or the Chrysler 300.

Saving the environment while being green? There’s the Prius, the standard for economy and value everywhere. If looking cool while going fast is what you aim for, there is the roomy and speedy Dodge Charger, the Dodge Challenger with over 400 HP, or the upcoming Toyota FT-86, which is a car that will turn heads everywhere.

Stop by Autoland on Route 22 in Springfield, where our customer service is second to none. At Autoland, service doesn’t stop at the sale – we will take excellent care of you throughout your experience so you can come back as a happy customer again and again. We are leaders in customer satisfaction and one of the best car dealers in NJ as a result, so give us a call, check out our website, or stop by today!

As One of the Best Car Dealers in NJ, Autoland Keeps You Coming Back

At Autoland, located on Route 22 in Springfield, we want your business – not just today or tomorrow, but your future business as well. We want you coming back for life. As a result, we are proud to offer you some of the best values on the best vehicles so you can find that perfect car or truck for your budget.

Autoland features the latest in new Toyota, Scion, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. These excellent selections are fresh from the factory and at the lowest possible price offered by any new car dealer in NJ. Plus, all of these top-notch vehicles come with a full manufacturer's warranty.

If a new car is not in your budget, our sales professionals can get you into a certified pre owned vehicle. All used vehicles have been thoroughly checked and ready for you. Many carry the remainder of the factory warranty.

Autoland is proud to be one of the leading car dealers in New Jersey. We like to treat our customers as if they are the most important people around, because to us, you are! If you haven't been to Autoland, we want to earn your business. Check out our website, where you will find our complete line of cars, both new and used. You will also be able to read what other satisfied customers have said about their experiences at Autoland.

Our website helps you with your one-stop vehicle shopping. You can check out our complete line of inventory and schedule a test drive. One of our sales professionals will be there to greet you with the car best suited for you, but before you even arrive, you can also apply for credit online.

Once you have selected your vehicle and have taken delivery, we do not feel your experience should end there. As one of the best car dealers in NJ, Autoland has a plethora of service technicians who are highly trained on all factory services for your car. The service department has convenient hours of operation, which includes Sunday, and you can make an appointment over the phone or visit our website to schedule. With 75 service bays, you can be sure that we have one waiting for you.

Autoland is here for all of your needs. We are located at 170 Route 22 East, Springfield, NJ. Check us out online at www.1800autoland.com, or give us a call at 888-918-4835. Once you do, you will see why our many satisfied customers keep coming back.

Car Dealers in New Jersey Prepare for the Wave of "Green" Vehicles

As gas prices climb higher and higher, the world seems to be casting its collective gaze upon the new wave of fully-electric vehicles being conceived by car companies.

Car dealers in New Jersey are preparing for the release of these futuristic-looking cars; Toyota is setting up to ship out the fleet of Prius Plug-ins, while big-name luxury manufacturers release their concepts for entirely battery-run cars.


With the release of LEAF in 2011, Nissan car dealers in New Jersey are anxiously awaiting the release of more electric cars in hopes that the wave will sweep the nation as anticipated.


Due for release in 2012 is the Toyota Prius Plug-in and the electric version of its popular sport utility vehicle, the RAV4 EV. Scion, a daughter company of Toyota, is set to show its electric-car chops with the IQ EV.


Following suit, Mitsubishi has announced the new Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a 5-door electric hatchback whose body is smaller than any rival other than the SmartCar.
Upgrading its impressive fleet of vehicles from hybrid to fully-electric, Honda plans to start the transition by releasing the Fit EV, a lithium-battery-run version of its already-popular Fit hatchback.


Luxury car dealers in New Jersey are also eagerly awaiting the release of German luxury electric cars – BMW, Porsche, and Audi have all announced their version of the electric car, set to be distributed worldwide in 2012. The BMW i3, Audi e-tron, and Porsche Tesla Model S, with their stunning futuristic looks and complete ignorance of gasoline woes, are all sure to be welcomed additions to car dealers in New Jersey.

Finding the Best Car Dealer in NJ

Finding the best car dealer in NJ isn't as hard as it looks. In fact, you don't have to look at all. We're the best New Jersey dealer because of what we have to offer and our long-lasting business model.
With roots dating back to the 1940s, 1800Autoland has provided customers with top quality vehicles for decades. Now with the omnipresence of the Internet, we have used the Internet to continue to give what our customers want.

Are you looking for a certain car or shopping on a strict budget? Browse our inventory online and get a feel of what we have to offer. If we don't have what you want, we can try and find it for you. Furthermore, we have iPhone apps so you can stay connected with our deals and service department. It even allows you to make appointments without having to call in.

What sets us apart from all the other dealers in the New Jersey area is we go beyond providing our customers with great vehicles at fantastic prices. We make sure the customer is comfortable and gets the right car for the right price. We also are active in a variety of community and charity organizations. As much as New Jersey residents give to us, we want to give back. 

So if you're looking for a well-rounded car dealer in NJ, look no further than 1800Autoland.