How to Prepare for Roadside Emergencies

If you’ve ever broken down, you know how scary it can be. Although it’s not something you want to think about, being prepared can be truly helpful. Keeping a well-stocked emergency kit can help you out in many different situations. All drivers should carry a basic emergency kit in their car. This video is a great starting point for you to develop your own roadside emergency kit:

Have a Great Holiday Road Trip

Planning on doing some holiday traveling this weekend? Check out these tips for safe winter travel over at RoadTrip America:

1. Think like a Boy Scout. Around the holidays, you have to be prepared for just about anything, so keep a cache of emergency supplies in your vehicle. Include these items: blanket, flashlight, candle and matches, bandana or tea towel, paper towels, first aid kit, batteries, water and a good adventure novel. Carry emergency food, too. Canned items are best - We carry MREs (meals, ready-to-eat) -- but things like SPAM (Don't laugh! Try it!) and fruit cocktail are fine. If the cans don't have pull tabs, bring a can opener, and don't forget some plastic utensils. If you keep emergency provisions in your vehicle all year round, now is a good time to check that they are still functional or edible.
2. Brush up on your winter driving skills. Don't be fooled by all those autumn decorations. Thanksgiving can bring some of the worst winter driving conditions of the year. Snow, sleet and ice are particular worries, so now is the time to check those tires and recall what it means to "steer into the skid."
3. Stretch and move whenever you get the chance. If you find yourself trapped on a jammed highway with a few thousand of your closest strangers, do some road-trip calisthenics. Isometric exercises like rolling your shoulders and flexing your back and upper arms can be great stress relievers. If possible, get out of your car and perform the "Chicken Dance." You will entertain your fellow travelers and get your own circulation moving. It may not get the traffic to move any faster, but it will put some of the festivity back into the trip.

Read more here: http://bit.ly/cBRWSe

Santa on the Square

The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present Santa on the Square each evening from 5:00PM to7:00PM beginning this Saturday, December 15th and running through Monday, December 24th. Town Square will be lit with thousands of glittering lights and the Stage Stop Building on the southwest corner of the square will be as warm and cozy as Santa's workshop!

Children are invited to bring their wish lists and parents are reminded to bring their cameras.

Visiting Santa on the Jackson Town Square has become a tradition for many local families and holiday visitors. Santa listens to holiday wishes at the Stage Stop building near the elk antler arches and the main entrance to the Town Square. Don't miss out on this wonderful holiday tradition! Visit http://bit.ly/RbhR64 for more information.

Jackson Hole Winter Wonderland

Experience a weekend of holiday shopping and cheer at The Jackson Hole Winter Wonderland! It  will begin on Friday, December 7th and run through Saturday, December 8th from 8AM to 9PM. A weekend to share with family and friends, experience the unique shopping within Teton County.

One of the highlights will be the Dancers' Workshop production of "If The Shoe Fits,” an original adaptation of Cinderella, at Jackson Hole Center for the Arts. Local shops will feature a magical holiday atmosphere and extended hours, until at least 8PM, just in time to shop for Christmas! Enjoy caroling, sleigh rides, cider, hot chocolate, and cookies in the glow of festive Christmas lighting.

For more information and to submit your hours, please contact the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce Business Development Committee,Representative Rick Howe at rick@jacksonholechamber.com or 307.733.3316x114.

Are Subaru’s the best cars money can buy?

For years Subaru has been essentially a regional brand -- strong in the Northeast and Northwest but unknown in the rest of the country. No overnight success, Subaru of America -- the U.S. arm of Japan's Fuji Heavy Industries -- began selling cars in the U.S. 44 years ago and still ranks only 12th in size. Hyundai and Kia, which arrived two decades later, have developed broader product lines and sell several times more vehicles.

Yet Subaru has racked up more endorsements by independent arbiters of automotive quality and safety than just about any other manufacturer. Consumer Reports rates Subaru above Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and every other manufacturer in performance, comfort, utility, and reliability, and says the company makes the best cars in America. ALG (formerly Automotive Lease Guide), the industry's arbiter of residual value and used-car prices, named Subaru the leader in retained value among mainstream brands. And after crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety made Subaru a "top safety pick" across its entire product line, a distinction no other manufacturer can claim.

Fueled by this trifecta of achievements, just about everything Subaru sells is flying off dealers' lots this year. Despite a chronic shortage of inventory, the company has been breaking monthly sales records with regularity, and sales for the year are up 26% compared with last year's -- nearly double the 14% gain for the industry as a whole. Hurricane Sandy struck right in the heart of Subaru's customer base, yet the little car company saw sales jump 30% in October, vs. the industry's 7%.

What Subaru has done is to make itself into the first automaker that could be described as "artisanal" -- focused, individualistic, and really good at a very few things. With only limited resources, Subaru has made smart bets on features like all-wheel drive, developed memorable marketing and advertising that set it apart from the competition, and learned more about its customers than any other automaker. In appealing to them by geography, lifestyle, and, at times, sexual orientation, it has built the deepest loyalty in the car business. The company understands itself so well that for years its advertising tag line was the self-referential "It's what makes a Subaru, a Subaru."

Read more: http://management.fortune.cnn.com/2012/11/19/subaru-best-cars/

Avoid “Turkey” of a Weekend with Pre-Trip Vehicle Check

One way to avoid a turkey of a Thanksgiving road trip is to make sure the vehicle you will be driving is running well. A 10-minute pre-trip check is small potatoes compared to a big helping of inconvenience if you break down many miles away from home, according to the Car Care Council.

“A pre-trip vehicle check provides peace of mind, helping reduce the chance of costly car trouble and providing an opportunity to have any repairs performed by one’s own trusted technician before hitting the road,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “While no inspection can guarantee a car’s performance, it’s comforting to know proper precautions were taken to ensure a stress-free Thanksgiving road trip.”

The Car Care Council suggests the following 10-minute vehicle check to help ensure safety and reliability on the road:

• Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
• Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
• Check the hoses and belts that can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.
• Check lighting to identify any problems with exterior and interior lighting as the chance of an accident increases if you can’t see or be seen.
• Check wipers. Wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Make sure the windshield wipers are working properly and keep the reservoir filled with solvent.

The Car Care Council also recommends that motorists restock their emergency kit. To save on fuel costs during the trip, the council suggests that motorists avoid aggressive driving, observe the speed limit and avoid excessive idling. Gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.

Courtesy of: http://www.carcare.org/2012/11/avoid-turkey-of-a-weekend-with-pre-trip-vehicle-check/

Travel Storys GPS

Discover our valley in a whole new way with TravelStorysGPS, a free app that shares vivid and engaging stories about the landscape, geology, wildlife, and colorful history along Wyoming Highway 22 and Teton Park Road! The launch of TravelsStorysGPS is being celebrated with an "App for an App" promotion- a free appetizer with the purchase of a meal at participating restaurants on November 16th: Rendezvous Bistro and Café Genevieve in Jackson, WY, Spoons Bistro in Victor, ID and the Mural Room at Jackson Lake Lodge in Grand Teton National Park. Download the app, enjoy your audio tour, and then show the last screenshot to your server to claim a free appetizer with your meal! One per party allowed.

Learn more: http://www.travelstorysgps.com/

40th Anniversary Party on Friday!

Join us for our 40^th Anniversary Party this Friday, November 9^th from 4PM to 6PM as we celebrate 40 amazing years serving and supporting the families, individuals, and businesses of Jackson Hole! Meet our founder, Earle Auge, and celebrate with the entire Teton Motors family. 

Check out some of our firsts: 

·  In 1972 Teton Motors brought GM back to Jackson Hole, and has been selling them ever  since.

· Longest running auto dealer in Teton County, and always run by the same family.

· Teton Motors opened in 1972 selling Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, and Buick.

·Headline on first newspaper advertising "Teton Motors, Inc.  A new automobile dealer as dependable as the Buicks and Opels he sells."

· Teton Motors introduced AMC/Jeep/Renault to its line In October 1982

· The first ever full color ad in the Jackson Hole Guide was by Teton Motors on October, 28, 1982 

About the dealership:

Teton Motors is a full service auto dealer. We sell new Chevrolet, Buick and Subaru vehicles.

Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales

·        Best Selection of Vehicles in Teton County

·        New vehicles added to inventory daily

·        Inventory turns over completely every couple of weeks

Service Department

·        Certified Chevrolet, Buick, & Subaru Service

·        Can work on ANY make and model

·        Most experienced technicians in town

Parts & Accessories

·        Genuine GM and Subaru Parts

·        Great deals on tires

Collision Repair

·        Body Shop

·        Paint

·        Approved provider to Insurance companies

The Future of Subaru

What does the future of Subaru look like? Edmunds peers into their crystal ball to discern the developments that are coming. Head over to their site to check it out and tell us if you like what you see: bit.ly/Uy9p0O

"Subaru BRZ

2013 Subaru BRZ: Don't expect any significant changes or additions to the BRZ for at least at year, but we've got good money on a turbo version (STI?) showing up inside of two years. It would, after all, be stupid to ignore the obvious goodness of such a car.

Subaru Impreza

2014 Subaru Impreza WRX/WRX STI: Expect a redesign for the WRX and WRX STI in 2014. Rumors are all over the place regarding the next generation WRX and WRX STI powertrains. Most prevalent as of this writing is the idea of an electric-powered turbocharger. We're not even sure if such a device can be called a turbocharger, but here's how the rumor goes: Heat energy from the exhaust gas would be used to produce enough electricity to power the air pump (turbocharger?). Simple physics and history have both shown this scenario to be implausible, but, hey, we're just sharing the rumors."

Courtesy of www.insideline.com

TGR returns to the SPUD - Dream Factory & Jeremy Jones' Further

Check out this event that The RAD Recyclers shared on Facebook. Looks like a good time! It takes place this Saturday, October 27, 2012 at 6:00pm in MDT at The Spud Drive In.

All attendees get a 2for1 Grand Targhee Lift Ticket at TGR's double feature! Come and see "The Dream Factory" and Jeremy Jones' "Further" - its a benefit for the Teton Valley Ski Education Foundation - doors at 6!

There is a "trunk or treat" for the kids too! so bring a bag of candy in your car to give out.

The Dream Factory at 7pm & JJ's Further at 8:15. After Party at the Knotty Pine with TGR Athlete Todd Ligare in the band "Seasonal Eagle" be sure to buy a "Save the Spud" tee shirt as well since the snack shack will be open for dinner.

Check the Facebook event page for more info, to be posted soon.

About The Teton Valley Ski Education Foundation

The Teton Valley Ski Education Foundation (TVSEF) was formed more than 30 years ago with a mission of providing an affordable winter sports program that offers skill improvement and leadership training, builds self-confidence, and creates within each athlete a lifelong love of the sport.

TVSEF offers programs designed for multiple levels and disciplines including Freeride, Racing, Snowboarding, and our famous Junior Development Program, the Tigers.

Subaru BRZ to be Featured in “Fast and the Furious 6″ Film Set for Next Summer

The 2013 Subaru BRZ was an unexpected star in Motor Trend’s World’s Greatest Drag Race 2 (shown below), and we’ve now heard that the rear-drive sports car will be featured in the latest Fast and the Furious movie. Subaru has reportedly supplied the “Fast and the Furious 6″ crew with as many as five BRZs, and we’d be surprised if at least one of those doesn’t end up dressed in Fast and Furious garb including a full body kit, upgraded wheels, and a lowered suspension. Or smashed up. Or both.

Of course, the main changes we look forward to experiencing are under the hood. Though the stock 2013 BRZ makes 200 hp and 151 lb-ft from a 2.0-liter flat 4, a turbocharger or a supercharger would no doubt quicken the car’s as-tested 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds with a six-speed manual transmission.

In our first test of the 2013 Subaru BRZ, we were impressed by the car’s abilities despite its power deficiencies: “The BRZ treats the driver to all the MX-5′s chassis greatness — the direct, linear steering; the composed, taut ride with a touch of softness; the firm, reassuring brakes; the initial understeer that transitions gently and predictably to controllable oversteer — but adds a quiver-free fixed-roof body that communicates chassis behavior with even more precision.”

Additionally, the buzz around the Hollywood water cooler is that Fast Six cars like the BRZ might be driven by actors including longtime series stars Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (who appeared in the last sequel) in the latest FF movie. Jason Statham, who previously starred in “The Transporter” movies driving largeAudi sedans, may even have a cameo role.

For some Motor Trend fans, though, the real stars of the next Fast and the Furious movie will be the cars. Along with the Subaru BRZ, we’re likely to see plenty of hot sheetmetal to keep us interested. About last year’s flick, actor Tyrese Gibson told us he liked the Dodge Charger police vehicles so much he was thinking about buying a Charger.

“Fast and the Furious 6″ is expected to be released on May 24, 2013.

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/subaru-brz-to-be-featured-in-fast-and-the-furious-6-film-set-for-next-summer-273581.html/0/#ixzz29YaTGrdh

Dancing with the Jacksonhole Stars Benefit Tomorrow

Teton Motors is a proud sponsor of the 2012 “Dancing with the Jackson Stars,” a fundraiser to benefit the Children’s Learning Center tomorrow at Hotel Terra at 7PM.

“The stars are not performers,” according to Patti Boyd, Executive Director of Children’s Learning Center, “yet they are willing to “step out of their comfort zones” to entertain the community through this premier event for the benefit of Children’s Learning Center. Money will be raised as votes ($1 each) are cast for favorite dancers and proceeds will support the work CLC does with young children in our community.”

Visit http://childrenlearn.org/dancing-with-the-stars/ for more information

2nd Annual Scarecrow Festival

The Center for the Arts presents the second annual Scarecrow Festival in Center Park on Friday, October 5^th. It will feature live and silent auctions of hand-crafted scarecrows made by local artists and businesses. Enjoy fall-flavored food and drinks, live music, art activities, and more during this free, family-friendly event! Proceeds will benefit the Center for the Arts.

Are you ready for the Subaru Crosstrek?

Is this Subaru for real, or is the new XV Crosstrek arriving this fall just faking it? If another automaker attempted to elevate one of its small wagons to the status of “off-roader,” it would risk becoming an industry laughing stock. But Subaru is different. It always has been. And just when you think the Japan-based company has settled down and become a conservative member of the community, it ratchets up the funkiness and creates this bold and brash offshoot of its Impreza wagon. You just gotta love it.

In developing the niche-oriented Crosstrek, the Impreza wagon was an ideal starting point. Subaru completely reinvented its popular entry-level model for the 2012 model year, making it larger, better looking and significantly more fuel-efficient (albeit less powerful) than before. And with its standard four-wheel-drive, the Impreza has the right stuff to be converted into a pseudo Rubicon Trail-conquering hero. The reality, however, is that the Crosstrek is best suited for rough road and weather conditions plus limited off-trail adventuring. Anyone familiar with Volvo’s XC70 wagon will think of this Subie as a scaled-down and less expensive copycat as well as sharing kinship with the now-retired Impreza Outback Sport and current Subaru Outback wagon.

The right look is critical for any sport style vehicle and Subaru has provided the Crosstrek with its own distinctive nosepiece, front and rear bumpers, roof rails and rear spoiler. In addition, extra cladding for the wheel arches and rocker panel has been installed. The meaner macho look is completed with darker window tinting and a set of 17-inch all-season tires mounted to custom-look rims. You might not find them entirely to your taste, but they do set the Crosstrek apart from its lower-key Impreza roots.

The slightly bigger front brake rotors add stopping power and a hiked-up suspension provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is three more than the Impreza. That’s just shy of the competing Jeep Patriot’s 9.0-inch stance and should be plenty for straddling rock-strewn terrain and fording shallow streams.

Finally, Crosstrek owners who undertake more desolate journeys will appreciate the 15.9-gallon gas tank, which is a gain of 1.4 gallons over the Impreza.

The more generous fuel reservoir should go a long way when feeding the Crosstrek’s 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that comes straight from the Impreza. That’s significantly less oomph than the pre-2012 170-horsepower Impreza, but the offset is a 25-mpg city number and 33 mpg on the highway, ratings that crush the old “Imp’s” 20/27 numbers. The horizontally opposed engine layout, with one pair of cylinders located at 180 degrees to the other pair, lowers the center of gravity and provides all kinds of underhood room.

Read more: http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/08/17/2275230/2013-subaru-crosstrek.html

Malibu focuses on Child Safety

Child Passenger Safety Week is today, September 17^th through the 22^nd. The 2013 Chevy Malibu is trying to make it better.

One mother working at Chevy is helping to develop the new safety features included in the 2013 Malibu making sure that it’s not only safe for your children, but hers as well giving her a real-world perspective.

It’s very rewarding that my work helps to make children safer” said Julie Kleinert-GM child safety technical lead and mother of four as well as a grandmother of two.

To see more of her story visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pr49o_SrB98&feature=plcp

Experience a New Lease on Luxury with Buick

Introducing the Experience Buick Lease get two years of all-inclusive premium services including vehicle maintenance, OnStar and SiriusXM Satellite Radio, all for one simply monthly lease payment. Vehicle maintenance includes:

• Scheduled oil changes
• Oil filter changes
• Tire rotations
• Chassis lubrication

OnStar includes:

Automatic Crash Response: A specially trained emergency Advisor is connected to your vehicle the moment a crash is detected.

Hands Free Calling⁴: OnStar Hands-Free Calling keeps you connected, even when your cell phone can't.

Stolen Vehicle Assistance: OnStar works with the authorities to attempt to recover your stolen vehicle swiftly and safely.

Turn-by-Turn Directions: Just push a button for directions you’ve saved with eNav or speak directly with an OnStar Advisor.

Vehicle Diagnostics: Every month, OnStar can automatically run hundreds of diagnostic and maintenance checks on your vehicle's key operating systems.

Remote Door Unlock: A quick call connects you to an Advisor, who can send a remote signal that usually unlocks your doors within minutes.

Emergency Services: Simply press the red button and you’re instantly connected to an Advisor who can contact Emergency Response.

The OnStar RemoteLink Mobile App⁵ brings unmatched vehicle connectivity to the palm of your hand. You can use your smartphone to access real-time vehicle data, lock/unlock your doors, sound your horn/flash your lights or remotely start your engine.

Imagine hearing the music you want without having to flip through commercials, fumble with CDs, or manage a playlist. Imagine cheering on your favorite team, no matter where you are. Or having channels and channels of comedy, talk, news, entertainment, family programming, and more. Now imagine having all of this, all in one place — and being able to listen wherever you drive. And when it comes to traffic, SiriusXM’s NavTraffic⁶ appears right on the screen of your vehicle's optional GPS navigation system to show detailed traffic data when its needed the most — while you're driving. It’s all here, all in one place. And best of all — it’s included in your 24-month lease. For more information, visit Buick’s Sirius XM page.

With the XM Premier package³, listen to over 140 channels, including:

• Commercial-free music from every genre.
• Live play-by-play from every major sport.
• Exclusive entertainment, comedy, and talk.
• World-class news, local traffic, weather, and more.
• Plus NavTraffic⁶ — detailed traffic information on your Nav screen

For more information on Buick Lease options visit http://www.buick.com/experience/lease-offers.html or give us a call at (307) 200-4699

2013 Subaru Crosstrek Debuts Next Month

The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek may be best thought of as the automotive equivalent of a good cross-training shoe--not sharply honed for any one thing, but surprisingly fit and fortified for a wide range of conditions. As the epitome of a crossover, the Crosstrek looks brawnier yet not too carlike; it adds some rugged off-road ability but still handles like a hatchback or sport wagon on the road; and it offers some pretty impressive cargo space, versatility, and places to stow gear--for the trip out to the ski slopes, the campsite, or the beach.

Up close, or from afar, the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is what it is, which is a hatchback, built up with more ground clearance, protective lower-body cladding, and all sorts of more outdoorsy and off-road-oriented cues--many of them functional, some of them, perhaps intentionally, resembling outdoor gear and wear. Yet at the same time, the Crosstrek's differences yield a completely different stance and entirely different proportions it seems, with a certain level of the familiar Outback charm. Inside, it's mostly just a matter of some new upholsteries to fit the character.

To make sure it's good for the trail, the Crosstrek gets good cleats--up to 8.7 inches of ground clearance, plus various suspension and structural reinforcements, improved engine cooling, unique front fenders, and body cladding, that altogether make it quite different than the Impreza hatchback on which it’s based. It also has good approach and departure angles (of 18 degrees and nearly 28 degrees, respectively), and with its all-wheel-drive system, which is always sending power to all four wheels, we think it might be one of the best vehicles yet for snowy New England driveways. Handling is surprisingly nimble on the road, considering how well the Crosstrek rides and how well it soaks up harshness from trails and gravel roads.

The sore point for some may simply that it's lacking some muscle. Go with the five-speed manual, and the Crosstrek feels far more charming, especially when you need do order up some power quickly at lower speeds. With 148 horsepower for about 3,200 pounds in a fully loaded Crosstrek Limited, and the engine’s peak 145 pound-feet of torque not reached until 4,200 rpm, this is not a sprightly or quick vehicle, and the available CVT can exaggerate the lag in power delivery. On the plus side, you get phenomenal fuel economy for a crossover (the best in the class, really), at up to 25 mpg city, 33 highway with the CVT (or 23/30 with the manual).

Cabin accommodations go well beyond the expectations of the granola set, although they won't be any sea change to anyone who's owned a Subaru before. Seating is arranged well enough so that adults can fit fine in back--and get in and out easily--and seats flip forward to a flat cargo surface. All models include a rubberized cargo tray that's easily removed and hosed off, and the roof rack on all models is standard and can carry up to 150 pounds. Crosstrek models come rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds, too. Adding on to its appeal is a smooth, refined ride is a step above rival models like the Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, and Mini Countryman. About the only thing that not everyone will warm up to is a set of materials and trims that are merely average for this price range, and that some interfaces for audio and trip-computer displays feel clunky and outdated.

With a starting price of just $21,995, the 2013 Subaru Crosstrek Premium makes a very strong value proposition. Keyless entry, air conditioning, power accessories, and cruise control are all included even in this base model, as of course are all-wheel drive. Leather upholstery, leather shift-knob and steering-wheel trim, automatic climate control, and a fold-down rear-seat armrest with cupholders are all extras that you get with the Limited. They also get a step-up display audio system with 4.3-inch screen, rear camera and HD Radio, and a navigation system with XM NavTraffic, voice control, and text-messaging ability is optional.

Article courtesy of: http://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/subaru_xv-crosstrek_2013

Is texting while driving really worse than drunk driving?

 

Texting, or short message service (SMS), is a quick form of communication that allows users to send 160 characters or less to and from their cell phones and smartphones. A study by the Pew Research group in 2009 and 2010 reported that out of the number of Americans who have cellphones, 58 percent of adults and 66 percent of teens use them to text. With these high percentages of Americans using text messaging every year, many are bringing the habit along with them when they drive. The same Pew study showed that 34 percent of teens who use their phone for texting said they've done it while driving, and 47 percent of adults who texted said they had done it while driving, too.

In 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that almost 6,000 fatalities and over half of a million injuries were due to accidents caused by drivers who were distracted. The study wasn't focused on texting, but it does show the seriousness of driving while distracted. Like many other driving distractions, texting involves a certain amount of mental attention as well as physical application which may be why 28 states have banned drivers from texting while operating a vehicle.

But is there really proof that texting while driving is more dangerous than drunk driving? Even though research is just now being done to measure the effects of texting while driving, some in the automotive industry and others in research circles say that texting is definitely more dangerous than drunk driving. Mainly because taking a driver's eyes off the road significantly cuts down on his or her ability to react to changes.

Read more: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/texting-while-driving-worse-than-drunk-driving.htm

The Key to a Long-Lasting Vehicle

Basic car care is the key to a long-lasting vehicle, improving its safety and dependability, says the Car Care Council.

“Neglected vehicle care almost always means much higher costs down the line in the form of more extensive repairs or lost resale value,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Following a routine maintenance program makes financial sense, extending useful vehicle life and helping avoid costly repairs down the road.”

The Car Care Council recommends 10 basic maintenance procedures to keep your car operating at its best for the long haul:

1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.

1. Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.

1. Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.

1. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.

1. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.

1. Schedule a tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy and produce the lowest level of emissions.

1. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and for safety reasons such as defrosting.

1. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.

1. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

1. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.

The Car Care Council has introduced a newcustomserviceschedule. The personalized schedule and e-mail reminder service is a free resource to help motorists drive smart, save money and make informed decisions.

Article courtesy of: http://www.carcare.org/2012/04/car-care-the-key-to-a-long-lasting-vehicle/

Old Bill’s Fun Run For Charities 2012 Presented by the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole

Old Bill’s Fun Run 2012 will be held at Jackson Town Square on September 8^th at 10AM. Participants run or walk 2K, 5K or 10K in competitive or recreational categories. There will be costumes, music, a free brunch and awards.  Register for the run/walk here by September 7^th at 5PM.

Mr. and Mrs. Old Bill generously provide the first $500,000 in matching funds. The Community Foundation raises additional matching funds from individuals, businesses and organizations in the community, known as Co-Challengers and Friends of the Match. When all the gifts have been recorded and acknowledged – approximately four weeks after the run – the Community Foundation calculates the match percentage based on the total amount of match money available relative to the total amount of designated contributions, up to $25,000 for each organization. All eligible participating organizations receive the same percentage match on the first $25,000 in designated contributions they raise. The match percentage will be announced at the Awards Party on October 22, 2012. 

100% of all designated contributions are passed on to eligible organizations that donors recommend (subject to the Community Foundation’s variance power) along with a match percentage on the first $25,000 raised on their behalf. 20% of the matching pool is allocated to the Foundation’s Competitive Grants program for the coming year, providing a year-long opportunity for organizations to apply for grant support. To successfully produce the event each year, the Foundation assesses a 5% administrative fee from the match pool. 

Over the past fifteen years, the event has helped local charities raise nearly $83 million and has touched the lives of thousands.

Information courtesy of: http://www.cfjacksonhole.org/old-bills-fun-run/

How to Use Jumper Cables

Owning a working set of jumper cables -- and knowing how to use them -- is a must for drivers. Since using jumper cables incorrectly can be dangerous, follow every step precisely. Most jumper cables have an instruction card or label so you can make sure you're connecting them the right way.

● Find a car to serve as the boosting car.

● Park the two cars -- the dead car and the boosting car -- close to one another, making sure that they're not touching each other.

● Make sure both cars' engines are turned off, and both cars are in park.

● Clamp the red jumper cable (i.e. the positive cable) to the dead car's positive battery terminal, which is marked with a "+." Make sure that the clamp is firmly connected to the battery.

● Clamp the other end of the red jumper cable to the booster car's positive battery terminal, also marked with a "+." Make sure that the clamp is firmly connected to the battery.

● Clamp the black jumper cable (i.e. the negative cable) to the booster car's negative battery terminal, which is marked with a " - ". Make sure that the clamp is firmly connected to the battery.

● Clamp the other end of the black jumper cable to a bare, metal surface on the engine of the dead car. This can be a bolt or a screw. This provides grounding for the jump start [source: Brauer].

● Ensure that the jumper cables are not touching any engine parts.

● Start the booster car's engine and let it idle for a few minutes.

● Start the dead car's engine and let it idle for a few minutes.

● Disconnect the black jumper cable from the once-stalled engine. Then disconnect the black jumper cable from the booster car.

● Remove the red jumper cable from the booster car. Then remove the red jumper cable from the once-stalled car.

If this process doesn't work, the dead car's problem may not be with the battery. That's when it's time to call a tow truck or roadside service provider.

Article courtesy of: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/how-to-use-jumper-cables.htm

Teton Motors Scramble This Saturday!

We're proud to sponsor another great golf tournament by the Star Valley Ranch Association. The Teton Motors Scramble will be taking place Saturday, August 4th and will feature a Hole-In-One contest, where anyone who hits a legitimate hole-in-one on a specific hole will win a new Subaru! Also, everyone who "hits the green" will have the opportunity to pull a prize from the prize bucket (prizes range in value from $5 - $200). And everyone who participates in the tournament receives a 10% off service coupon as well. Don't miss out!

Music on Main

The Stone Foxes rocked last night! Check out the upcoming bands performing at Music on Main!

Thursday, August 2nd at 6 PM is Rosie Ledet and the Zydeco Playboys

Rosie Ledet & The Zydeco Playboys have quickly become the act to watch on the zydeco circuit. Brimming with coy sensuality, Rosie’s music is fresh and daring while still retaining its links to its bayou Creole heritage. Rosie has a rare combination of talent, not only in the zydeco world, but in any musical genre. She can write top-notch award winning songs, hang with the best of them on her instrument, and can sing circles around her peers. Rosie is among the few zydeco artists who still sing and write some of their own material in Creole French.

Thursday, August 9th at 6 PM is Carrie Rodriguez

Rodriguez’ journey from teenage violin student to touring the world with the likes of Chip Taylor  (famed songwriter of “Wild Thing), Lucinda Williams and Alejandro Escovedo, has resulted in a prodigious output of recordings – eight albums in as many years. Carrie brings incredible talent, energy, and entertainment to the stage. A joy for all!

Thursday, August 16th at 6 PM is Young Dubliners

Seamlessly blending their rock and Celtic influences into a high energy, anthemic and lyrically poignant mix, the band whose lineup since 2002 includes co-founder Keith Roberts (vocals, guitar), fellow Dubliner Brendan Holmes (bass, vocals), American-born members Bob Boulding (guitar, vocals), Chas Waltz (violin, keyboards, harp, mandolin, vocals) and Dave Ingraham (drums, percussion)—jumps energetically from ballad to barn burner, documenting as they go the vibrant yet chaotic world they find themselves in. 

Information courtesy of: http://tetonvalleyfoundation.org/culture/music-on-main/

2014 Chevrolet Impala features crash avoidance technology on all angles

Here are the active safety features on the 2014 Impala designed to help drivers avoid crashes:

• Full-speed-range adaptive cruise control – Radar technology senses ahead and adjusts the Impala’s speed from a complete stop to full acceleration. It is the first application in a Chevrolet.
• Collision mitigation braking – Another Chevy first: Radar technology detects a possible crash threat and alerts the driver. If the driver does not appear to react quickly enough or doesn’t react at all, this feature intervenes to apply the brakes in an effort to avoid the crash.
• Forward collision alert – Camera technology detects a possible crash threat and alerts the driver visually and audibly, giving him or her time to stop and/or change course. If a crash occurs, the Impala is equipped with OnStar, and a specially trained advisor is connected to the vehicle. If the driver requests help or can’t answer, emergency responders are sent to the precise GPS location.
• Lane departure warning – A camera-based lane-detection system identifies traffic lane markings and provides audible alerts in cases of unintended lane changes.
• Side blind zone alert – Using radar sensors on both sides of the vehicle, the system “looks” for other vehicles in the blind zone areas of the Impala and indicates their presence with LED-lit symbols in the outside mirrors.
• · Rear cross traffic alert – Based on the radar sensors of side blind zone alert, it warns the driver of vehicles in traffic when backing out of a parking spot – including angled parking. Visual and audible alerts are triggered if moving vehicles are detected.
• Rear vision camera with dynamic guidelines – With a display in the center stack infotainment system, the camera provides a view of objects directly behind the Impala, while the dynamic guidelines provide a reference that helps make parking and other maneuvers easier.
• Rear park assist – Uses sensors in the rear bumper to detect objects directly behind the vehicle and provides an alert for the driver.
• Brake pre-fill feature – Another Chevy first: Radar technology detects a possible crash threat and the system increases the hydraulic pressure in the brake lines, anticipating a driver’s hard braking. This quickens the response time and shortens stopping distances (included with 20-inch wheels on uplevel models).
• Hill hold/start assist – On hills, applies the brakes for about 1.5 seconds to prevent the car from rolling when the driver moves his or her foot from the brake to the accelerator pedal.

Read more: http://www.egmcartech.com/2012/06/29/2014-chevrolet-impala-features-crash-avoidance-technology-on-all-angles/

Subaru BRZ: Slow to the Dealer, Fast Off the Lot

Buoyed by positive press and tight supplies, the rear-wheel-drive Subaru BRZ spent the least time in American showrooms than any car in May, according to Edmunds.

The service tracked the days to turn, commonly known as churn rate, for the coupe in May, its first month of sales. Demand for the 271 units sold by dealers translated to a churn rate of four days, Edmunds said. The Scion FR-S, which was co-developed with the BRZ, experienced a five-day churn.

With so much competition for so few BRZs — initial interest from customers in Japan was four times higher than the automaker’s projections — how could Subaru so severely underestimate demand for the coupe?

One conclusion seems to be a lack of certainty by Fuji Heavy Industries, Subaru’s parent, that a brand built around all-wheel-drive capability could readily stretch to accommodate a lightweight, rear-drive sports car.

“The BRZ being rear-wheel drive, we made a conservative production request,” Michael McHale, a spokesman for Subaru of America, said in a telephone interview. “We pegged our allotment roughly to sales of the WRX,” he said, referencing the brand’s rally-oriented all-wheel-drive sports car.

That conservative approach has led to gripes from every market where the BRZ would be sold. “There are only so many that can be built in the year, and if you want more, you have to take from another market,” Mr. McHale added. “And nobody wants to give up their allocation.”

Contrary to most Japanese automakers, who have been shipping production overseas to preserve their profit margins in the face of a strong yen, Fuji Heavy Industries intends to increase domestic production in the fiscal year ending in March 2013. Subaru has not announced its 2013 production targets for the BRZ, but American dealerships are expected to receive 6,000 units by the end of 2012.

Read more: http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/19/subaru-brz-slow-to-the-dealer-fast-off-the-lot/

Chevy Volt Wireless Charging

Wireless charging for the Chevy Volt? There’s an aftermarket kit for that.

A startup clean technology company has outfitted a Chevrolet Volt with a wireless charging system, according to the company’s CEO.

Andrew Daga, also principal founder of the Pennsylvania-based company, said Momentum Dynamics has developed a unique and proprietary technology system that uses the electrical grid to recharge vehicles automatically without the use of a wire or owner assistance.
 
The system, which is expected to cost less than $10,000 as an aftermarket kit, is attached to the vehicle. When the vehicle is parked over a special charging mat, the vehicle automatically begins charging.

Daga said the company wanted to equip a Chevrolet Volt with the technology rather than an all-electric vehicle because the passenger vehicle is the "most complicated" on the market. He said starting with the most tech-savvy products should help the company implement the technology of other vehicles easier.

"It’s part of our idea of retiring the most complicated risks first," he told MLive.com following a panel presentation Tuesday during the Commercial Vehicle Megatrends USA 2012 conference in Dearborn. “By learning about a more complicated vehicle early, we solved those problems faster, or earlier, then we go onto less complicated vehicles and find ourselves having an easier time doing it."
Daga said the company’s first target market is commercial and fleet vehicles, because there is minimal competition and it is easier to implement the technology in controlled settings.

“It works with cars, or with buses, or any other vehicles,” he said. “They all get recognized and the power is modulated independently."

The company, according to Daga, will have a fleet of about five buses out later this year for Enterprise Rent-A-Car at the Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, Calif., Duke University and Berks County, Pa.

“We’re trying to do clean green initiatives in university settings, where students are really demanding that the university move in that direction,” he said. “These are perfectly silent, perfectly clean electric buses that will carry students back and forth all-day long.”

Daga said Momentum Dynamics – founded in 2009 – is working with “numerous” suppliers and automakers about integrating the technology into their electric vehicles.
According to Daga, the company will have three Volts equipped with the wireless charging systems by the end of the year.

A General Motors Co. representative was not immediately available for comment. 
Momentum Dynamics, which was awarded a $587,000 grant from the Pennsylvani Department of Environmental Protection’s Alternative Fuel Incentive Grant program, hopes to eventually adapt the technology to charge while the vehicle is stopped or moving, according to Daga.

“It could eventually work up to 20, 30 40, miles per hour or even as the vehicle approaches a red light,” he said. “There are many moving vehicle applications to this that we will eventually be going into.”

Daga said the company's wireless charging technology can outperform a level 3 plug-in charging system.

Daga was on a panel with Stephen Ptucha, Westport Power Inc. director of product management; Craig Jacobs, Eaton Corp. hybrids chief engineer; Larry Fuehrer, BAE Systems business development manager; and Corey Taylor, Castrol senior development technologist.


For more information about the wireless charger see MLive.

Subaru of Indiana named first U.S. auto plant to meet ISO 50001 energy standard

Subaru of Indiana is the first U.S. car manufacturing plant to become certified in energy management, meaning it complies with the International Organization for Standardization’s global standards that are meant to increase a company’s energy efficiency. Why is this important? It means that Subaru actually cares about the environment, instead of just talking about it.

Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. in Lafayette was recognized Monday for its heightened commitment to energy conservation that could help the car manufacturing plant save costs and reduce emissions.

SIA is the first U.S. car manufacturing plant to become certified in energy management, which means it complies with the International Organization for Standardization’s global standards — meant to increase a company’s energy efficiency.


“(The certification) is a culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication,” said Thomas Easterday, SIA’s executive vice president. “Over the years, Subaru has been well-known to be a leader. Right now, we’re taking an even bigger step.”


The SIA team spent six months monitoring energy consumption data in order to figure out how to improve its current processes to gear up for an audit by DEKRA Certification Inc., a company that provides professional certification in the automotive industry.


The Journal & Courier requested energy consumption data, but it was not released as of Monday night.


DEKRA President Henri Pierre Salle, who presented top executives from Subaru SIA with the ISO 50001 certification at a gathering on Monday, said the purpose of the certification is to provide an energy management framework for companies.


“A process of improvement becomes part of the everyday culture,” Salle said. “That spirit and culture already is here in the Subaru culture.”


Auditors who worked with SIA plant managers to collect the data said SIA’s commitment to saving energy is high compared with other large companies they have visited, Salle said.


Auditors noticed a particular attention to energy conservation in Subaru SIA’s painting and trimming processes, which account for more than 40 percent of the plant’s total energy consumption.


“The auditors noticed a clear commitment to energy consumption that was very robust,” Salle said. “They don’t casually make that kind of comment.”


Auditors will return to SIA at least once a year to make sure the plant is living up to the certification’s standards by testing random processes .


In November, a Bentley plant in England was the first car manufacturer in the United Kingdom to receive the certification. In October, a Lamborghini plant was the first in Italy to attain it.


SIA President and CEO Masaki Okawara said the new certification helps SIA maintain its leadership in the car manufacturing field.


“Environmental leadership is a very important business goal,” Okawara said. “This will help us reach and maintain that goal.”


Read more: http://www.jconline.com/article/20120604/BUSINESS/306040021?nclick_check=1

Tell your out-of-town friends and family: WIN a vacation for 2 to Jackson Hole!

If you've been wanting some of your out-of-town friends and family members to come visit you, make sure to pass along this contest info!


What's better than a trip to Jackson Hole? A free 4-night vacation for 2 to Jackson Hole!

Sign up to win a trip of a lifetime! You could be the lucky winner of an unforgettable summer vacation to Jackson Hole. The trip includes round trip airfare, four nights lodging in Teton Village, a Subaru Outback for 6 days, courtesy of Teton Motors Subaru, free entrance to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks and sightseeing ticket to the Aerial Tram. Awe inspiring mountain vistas grandeur of open space and amazing wildlife viewing will leave lasting memories. Don’t miss the chance to explore the real American west at its best this summer.
Prize package:

• Two domestic US airline tickets to Jackson Hole, WY
• Four nights lodging provided by Jackson Hole Resort Lodging
• Four day Park Pass to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks
• Two adult Tram tickets
• 2012 Subaru Outback for transportation around Jackson and the National Parks during the winning stay courtesy of Teton Motors Subaru

*No purchase necessary to enter or win. Winner will be selected in a random drawing on or about June 30th, 2012 from all eligible online entries received by JHMR whose decision in all matters relating to this sweepstakes are final. Prize must be scheduled and completed by September 30th, 2012 


Ready to enter? Sign up here: http://www.jacksonhole.com/visitjacksoncontest.html 

Teton Motors Sponsored PAWS 3rd Annual Putt for the Pooch Park

Last week, Teton Motors sponsored the PAWS 3rd Annual Putt for the Pooch Park at the beautiful Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club!

It was a great day of golf, sunshine, and dog-loving locals.

Golfers of all sizes came out to enjoy the fun.

We held a hole-in-one contest for a chance to win a car. Chris Monson came close to winning, but “close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenade”…so we awarded him the Golden Horseshoe Award!

About PAWS of Jackson Hole

PAWS advocates for animals and promotes responsible pet ownership through local outreach groups. They are a resource for education support and financial assistance, fostering collaborative relationships within the community. PAWS of Jackson Hole promotes the adoption of local homeless pets. They also provide free spay & neuter services and financial assistance to residents who cannot pay for unexpected vet bills. To make a donation go to their website: www.pawsofjh.org!

2013 Chevrolet Volt Increases EV Range to 38 Miles

The all-electric vehicle range of the 2013 Chevrolet Volt will be 38 miles on a single charge. That gives owners a three-mile EV range increase from the 2012 model. Where would you go in 38 miles?

The all-electric vehicle range of the 2013 Chevrolet Volt will be 38 miles on a single charge, providing owners with a three-mile EV range increase from the 2012 model. The miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) will increase from 94 miles to 98 miles and the total range, including extended range operation, will be 380 miles.


Based on real-world experience by Volt owners since the vehicle launched in late 2010, engineers made minor changes to the material composition of the battery cell chemistry, resulting in improved performance and durability. Manganese spinel chemistry remains the foundation for the Volt’s battery system, but the amount of each material has been slightly modified to provide better life performance.


“The best way to explain what we’ve done at the cell level is to compare it to a cake batter recipe.  Sometimes if you use more sugar and less vanilla you get a better tasting cake. We’ve done some work at the cell level to modify the ‘ingredients’ to make a better end result,” said Bill Wallace, GM director of Global Battery Systems Engineering. “This attention to detail will allow our customers to experience more pure EV range, which is the true benefit of owning a Volt.”


In addition, the total storage capacity of the Volt battery has been increased from 16 kWh of energy to 16.5 kWh, and engineers have expanded the state-of-charge window to use 10.8 kWh of the total battery energy – up from 10.3 kWh used in the 2012 model.  The battery system maintains a buffer to ensure battery life, but that buffer has been reduced.


The improved EV range capability will result in slight increases to the Volt’s charge times. A full recharge using a 120V could take 10.5 hours and 4.25 hours using a 240V charging unit.

Cells with improved chemistry have accumulated 150,000 test miles to date. The tests have revealed less battery degradation, the ability to withstand temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius and less impact by energy throughput. 

For the first 38 miles, the Volt can drive gas and tailpipe-emissions free using a full charge of electricity stored in its 16.5-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas-powered engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 344 miles on a full tank. Volt owners have travelled more than 65 million miles since the vehicle launched late 2010. Roughly two-thirds of those miles were powered by grid electricity.

Read more at media.gm.com. 

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, 2012 Hyundai Azera Earn Top Safety Ratings

The new 2013 Chevy Malibu Eco received the best safety ratings from the Insurance Institue for Highway Safety. In fact, it almost swept the board, scoring high ratings in  ALL of the IIHS subcategories! If you are looking for a safe car for the family, look no further.

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco, and the 2012 Hyundai Azera—both recently redesigned family-size sedans—have earned top crash-test ratings across the board from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Also taking into consideration their standard safety equipment, they've been named among the list of IIHS Top Safety Picks.


The 2012 Hyundai Azera, which went on sale earlier this year—and is quite highly rated here at The Car Connection, especially due to its standout design and luxurious, full-featured interior—already has an impressive set of standard safety features. There are a total of nine standard airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and rear side-impact bags, and the front seat design is one that's impact-reducing in itself. Also, the Azera includes a rearview camera system in each of its trims. And in new IIHS tests, it completely swept the ratings matrix, with top 'good' scores in all the subcategories of frontal and side-impact testing.


The new Malibu Eco almost swept the board, with top ratings in all of the IIHS's subcategories; the sole exception was an 'acceptable' score for driver torso injury. In the relatively new roof strength test—a measure that correlates to the likelihood of injury in a rollover accident—the Malibu Eco was able to withstand 5.22 times its body weight in a particular test area of the roof.


Withstanding 4.76 times its weight, the Azera also earned a 'good' rating. In any case, that was a substantial improvement over the previous (2011) Azera, which had earned 'acceptable' ratings for rear and side impact.


The Malibu, on the other hand, has been a top performer for several model years. Although we should caution that these results don't extend to the rest of the (non-Eco) 2013 Chevy Malibu lineup, which hasn't yet gone on sale.


Neither of these models has yet been rated by the federal government, as part of its new-car assessment program (NCAP) crash tests, but we'll update our review pages as soon as they're available. In the meantime, if safety is one of your top priorities, both of these roomy sedans deserve to be on your shopping list.


And go here to see the full list of 2012 Top Safety Picks.


Read more at The Washington Post.