Top Tech Features to Consider for Your New Car

If you're on the hunt for a new car, then you've likely noticed all the high-tech features that these new models are equipped with. While some features can be done without, others can really improve the safety and driving experience of your vehicle. Here are the top tech features to consider for your new car: 

Cameras & Sensors

While backup cameras and rear radars aren't new, 2017 models offer more advanced systems for increased safety and convenience. In addition to the basic backup camera that detects objects directly behind you, vehicles are now able to detect approaching cross traffic. Radar technology identifies approaching traffic when you're backing up and immediately alerts you by sounding an alarm. Additionally, vehicles are featuring multiple cameras with enlarged fields of view and clear LED display screens. Other safety features like auto-braking, engaged steering, and lane departure warnings are being integrated to help drivers avoid collisions. 

Onboard WiFi  

Many car models are equipped with Bluetooth technology, but the future is onboard Wifi. This is the ultimate feature for those who prefer to stay connected or have to work on the go. Using your phone as a hot spot, you can stream your favorite music, park and check your messages, and more from the comfort and convenience of your car. 

Parental Controls

For parents who fear their teen driver might text and drive, speed or get distracted jamming out to their favorite tunes, parental controls can give you peace of mind. Many new vehicles can incorporate parental controls that allow you to limit the speed and audio volume, sound an alarm when seat belts aren't fastened, and even block your child's texts and calls when they're driving. 

To shop new cars with the latest security and entertainment features, visit Autoland, a leading car dealer in NJ. We have the newest models from Toyota, Chrysler, Scion, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. View our inventory online, or stop by our dealership located at Route 22 in Springfield today.

Should You Buy or Lease a New Car?

Are you looking to ring in the New Year with a new car? If you're in the market for a new car, you've likely debated whether you should buy or lease. There are advantages and drawbacks to both, and the route you choose will depend on your financial situation and lifestyle choices. Read on to learn the pros and cons of buying and leasing a car.

Buying a New Car


If you plan to drive the vehicle for a long time, then it's probably best to buy rather than lease. When you buy a car, you own the vehicle outright once the loan is paid off. Since you own it, there are no mileage restrictions, and you can customize the car any way you like. Another major advantage is you can build equity throughout the life of the loan, which can help you buy your next vehicle. And, as the owner, you can choose to sell or trade in your vehicle whenever you want.


While you can often predict a vehicle's future market value, nothing is set in stone. Changing market conditions can affect the value of the car when you go to sell it or trade it in. Another drawback is buying involves a considerable down payment, with many lenders requiring 10 or 20 percent. It can also be difficult to secure monthly payments that fit within your budget.


Leasing a New Car

Many consumers are confused about how leasing a car works. When you lease a car, you pay the difference between the vehicle's price and its anticipated value at the end of the lease term. This is known as the residual value. Once the lease term is up, you return the vehicle to the dealership. 

Leasing requires a smaller down payment than financing a new car. But, like with buying, the larger the down payment, the better your monthly payments. In most cases, the monthly payments for a lease are lower than a monthly loan payment, unless you have a high-value trade-in or hefty down payment. 

Leases typically last about three years. Leasing can be ideal if you prefer having the latest technology and safety features, as it allows you to drive a new car every three years. Another benefit is during the lease term, the vehicle is usually covered under the manufacturer's warranty, which can save you money on unexpected repairs. However, you are still responsible for maintaining the car, including oil changes, tire rotations, and so on. Failure to maintain the car properly can result in fees at the end of the lease term. 

Along with these perks, leasing has some drawbacks too. Because you don't own the car, there are restrictions on how many miles you can put on the vehicle. The typical mileage range is between 9,000 and 15,000 miles a year. If you do a lot of driving, this is probably not the right option for you. If you exceed the mileage, then you will have to may overage fees at the end of the lease term. You will also incur additional fees if you do not return the car in its original condition. It cannot be returned with any damages or alterations. Another downside is leasing is like renting; you don’t build any equity that can be applied to your next car.

These are all important factors to consider when determining whether you should buy or lease a new car. Whether you choose to buy or lease, our New Jersey Toyota dealership can help you get the best deal on a new car. Visit our dealership, located on Route 22 in Springfield, today.

5 Ways to Take the Fright Out of Car Buying

Does the car buying process make you feel spooked? Don't worry; car buying doesn't have to be scary, especially when you shop at Autoland in Springfield, NJ. Ease your fright and fears with our car buying tips.   

Decide on a budget and features 

Prior to going to new and used car dealerships in NJ, decide what you need and want in your next vehicle. Make a list of the costs you'll incur from purchasing and owning the car, including the down payment, monthly payments and interest, gas, maintenance and repairs, and insurance. Before you buy, find out what your insurance rate would be for the car you're interested in buying. At the same time, assess your personal finances to determine the amount you can afford to spend on a car and all the associated expenses. 

Once you've established your budget, decide the features you need and prefer the car to have. Make a list of the features you absolutely need, as well as a wish list for items you would like but could do without. Then search online to come up with a list of vehicles that meet your criteria and satisfy your budget. Refer to car buying guides like Kelly Blue Book and Edmunds to better understand the values of the different cars.  By knowing what you're shopping for, you'll feel less overwhelmed when you hit the lot and actually leave with what you came for. 

Look at new and used 

Depending on your budget, consider both new and used cars as viable options. If you want a new car that fits into your budget, buy a slightly used one. The value of a new car depreciates once it leaves the lot, so you can save some money by purchasing a pre-owned vehicle with low miles. But, if you are planning on keeping the car for the long haul, then purchasing new can be a good investment and more realistic option.  Have an open mind; look at new and used vehicles, and calculate the price and ROI before making a purchase.  

Don't buy from a private seller

While you may find a cheap used car being marketed by a private seller, this type of sale can be very risky. Private sellers are not legally required to abide by the same laws and regulations as NJ Toyota dealers , so you risk getting scammed. Not to mention, car dealers have trained technicians that do a full inspection on pre-owned vehicles before they hit the lot, as well as offer warranties and protection plans for further vehicle protection.

Consider the purchase price 

When looking at cars, consider the purchase price. Don't be swayed by a low monthly payment. While an affordable monthly payment is important, you need to look at the actual purchase price when buying a car. A lower payment extended over a 72-month repayment cycle will cost you more in the long run, so be sure to do the math. Also factor in any extra and hidden costs, such as vehicle preparation, delivery fees, and taxes. 

Do not forget the test drive 

The test drive is one of the most important parts of car shopping. You can read all you want about a car on paper, but the test drive is the only way to experience how it rides and assess its comfort and compatibility with your needs. As the potential owner, you should be the one to test drive the car. Don’t just go for a ride along with the dealer. If possible, have a partner or close friend come with you, so they can their ears and eyes peeled for things you may not notice.  See how the car feels while idling, accelerating, decelerating, stopping, and turning, and also test it at both slow and fast speeds and on the various road conditions. 

Don't let the car buying process spook you. For a pleasant car buying experience, follow these tips.  To find your ideal vehicle at the best price, come by our new and used car dealership at Route 22 in Springfield, NJ. We look forward to connecting you to the perfect car for your needs, preferences, and budget.

Common Mistakes People Make at the Dealership

Are you in the market for a new or used car? To ensure you make a smart purchase, here are six rookie mistakes to avoid at the dealership. 

Mistake #1: Neglecting to Do Your Research 

Too often, rookie car buyers make the mistake of going to the dealership, without having done their research first. Whether you're shopping for a new or used car, you should begin your search well before visiting the dealership. Do your due diligence by searching the online inventories of various car dealers in NJ, as well as looking at Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds guides. This will tell you show you what's out there and allow you to compare costs and features.  

Along with surveying the options, consider the type of car you're after. By knowing what type of car you require, you'll avoid choosing a car that's ill-suited for your needs. Learn about the different makes and models of various vehicles to determine which is best for you.  Then write down a list of specific vehicles that meet your budget, needs and lifestyle and ask to see them specifically when you're at the dealership. 

 

Mistake #2: Not Securing Financing Before You Shop

Many rookie buyers head to the dealership without securing financing first. They assume they will finance through the dealership. While financing through the dealership can be the better option, it's still best to line up your own financing first. Before you shop, get pre-approved for a car loan from your bank or credit union. If the dealer can match the interest rate, then you can choose to go through the dealership. If not, you have a lower rate locked in. Having something to compare against the dealer's offering can also help you get the best offer, as well as help you understand how much you can really afford. 

Mistake #3: Focusing Too Much on the Monthly Payment

While buyers need to know how much they can afford for a monthly car payment, this number shouldn't be the only deciding factor when purchasing a car. Buyers should consider the overall cost of car ownership, instead of focusing solely on the monthly payment. Buyers who zone in on the monthly payment make the mistake of paying more in the long run. They settle for a longer finance period to lower the monthly payment, resulting in more interest.  When budgeting for a car, also consider the cost of insurance and maintenance. Keep in mind older vehicles will cost a lot more to maintain. 

Mistake #4: Buying from a Shifty Dealer 

There are plenty of car dealers in NJ, so make sure you shop around. If a dealer feels untrustworthy and gives you a weird vibe, simply walk away. There's also no shame in speaking to a manager or another sales representative if you feel a particular salesman is pressuring you into a sale that you're not comfortable with.  Make sure you are shopping at car dealers that are reputable and have a good standing with the Better Business Bureau. 

Mistake #5: Skipping the Test Drive 

Research shows that nearly 20% of car buyers skip the test drive before purchasing a new car. Another 33% of car buyers only take a car for a short 10-minute drive around the block before buying. Even with new cars, the test drive is essential. You can’t just go off of what you've heard about a particular car. The test drive is the only real way to determine if it's right for you.

Make sure you do a thorough test drive; don't just take a short a spin around the block. If possible, drive the car on a variety of road conditions and try to mirror your daily driving habits. For instance, if you often drive on fast highways, then test the car on a fast road. If you drive frequently on uneven backroads, then drive the car on a bumpy road. During the test drive, consider all aspects of the car, including the comfort, ride, noise, controls, sound system, heating and cooling system, brakes, steering, and so on. 

If you have your heart set on a specific make and model, consider test driving a competitor vehicle to ensure it suits your preferences. 

Mistake #6: Forgoing the Appraisal on Your Trade-In

When shopping for a new car, many buyers plan to trade in their current vehicle. If you plan to do this, then do an appraisal on your car beforehand so you know how much it's worth. It's best to leave your car as is because repairs will do very little to increase its value. Refer to Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds guides for the value of your trade-in. 

By being an educated buyer and avoiding these rookie mistakes, you'll choose with the right vehicle and have a positive car buying experience.

Drive Out of Route 22 Toyota with Your Car for the Next Decade

One of the main reasons drivers choose Toyota more than any other brand of vehicle is the understanding that Toyota’s are built to last. The car you buy tomorrow could very well be the car your child drives ten years down the road. When you purchase a new vehicle at your Route 22 Toyota dealership, we want you to feel like you bought a car that will be part of your family for at least a decade. That’s why we put together the following tips to follow to ensure a long lasting relationship with your new Toyota

• Never Skimp on Preventative Maintenance – It’s not only imperative that a new Toyota gets an oil change every 3,000 miles, it’s also important that the filters and motor oil purchased are of a high quality. Paying extra on synthetic motor oil and the filters that are used during your oil change could pay off big time in the end. Also, consider keeping track of your tire pressure and driving in a manner that doesn’t put your car under unnecessary strain.

•  Inspect Your Vehicle – The worst problems with vehicles are the ones that go unnoticed for too long. While things can certainly be spotted during your routine maintenance checkup, make a habit of inspecting your vehicle for a few minutes from time to time. In doing this you may find issues with the hoses under the hood, tires that are wearing unevenly or even save yourself from a ticket by noticing one of your lights is out.

• Keep That Shine – Regular car washes may seem more about style than substance, but that’s not really the case. Keeping your car washed regularly can actually help prevent damage to the outside of your vehicle. This is especially true during the winter months in New Jersey where rock salt is everywhere and can eat away at your paint year after year.

•  Follow the Laws – It sounds simple enough, but the laws of the road are put in place not only to keep the masses safe, but to keep you and your vehicle safe as well. The more law abiding you are on the open road, the more likely your vehicle will remain untouched. And nothing takes away from the longevity of a vehicle more than a preventable accident.

• Cover Up – We talked about regular washes for a clean exterior that prevents body damage during the winter, but the summer months can be brutal on the body of your car as well. Leaving your car out underneath the hot sun day after day can actually lead to solar damage. Also, utilizing a carport will protect your vehicle from bird droppings as well as sap from nearby trees.

The best part about these tips is they don’t require an excessive amount of work but can lead to huge savings on vehicle repair during your time with your Toyota vehicle. A responsible owner will always get the best value from their car. Have any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact our experts or stop by our Route 22 Toyota dealership today!

NJ New Car Sales Are Up in 2015

2009 was not a great year for auto dealerships in NJ. In fact, it was not a great year for the country as we were in the middle of the biggest recession of our generation. The last thing most families could afford was a new automobile. 2009 was the worst year for auto dealerships in NJ in more than 20 years. However, each year the numbers have slowly improved, and the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers Sales reported a 6% increase in sales in 2014 from the year before. In total, sales for 2014 were $32 billion. Although the year is only half over, the New Jersey Coalition of Automotive Retailers Sales estimates that 2015 may be even bigger.

Why the increase in automotive sales? First and foremost, the economy has improved significantly from 2009. The job market, especially for new graduates, has rebounded, and more Americans report that they have more dispensable income. Additionally, with gas prices and the emergence of hybrid technology, Americans see a new car purchase as an investment in a greener way to travel. Finally, there's dependability. New cars are more dependable and safe than models from ten years ago, providing new families with peace of mind every time they go on the road.

Whether you're looking for new or used car dealers in NJ, remember to choose a dealer you can trust with a robust inventory, affordable pricing, generous trade options, financing and more. 1800 Autoland on RT. 22 in Springfield, NJ has been a top choice for NJ motorists for years. We offer new and used models from Chrysler, Toyota, Jeep, and Dodge, and you won't find a better price anywhere else. Don't believe us? Visit our lot today at 170 Rt. 22 E, Springfield, NJ or visit us online to check out our latest models and promotions.

If you're in the market for a car (and by the numbers reported, you might be) choose 1800 Autoland!Rt. 22 E, Springfield, NJ