by Admin | Jun 5, 2025 | Toyota, Uncategorized
If you’re thinking of upgrading your vehicle right now to avoid tariffs, you might be making a very smart move. It could save you $10,000s if those huge tariffs are put into effect. When buying a Japanese new vehicle, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is definitely worth taking for a test drive.
What’s New Overview
This is the 6th generation of the 4Runner (after 15 years of model popularity) and it looks like Toyota is on a roll with making their customers very happy. Some of the updates include: powertrains and the new 8-speed automatic transmission. And new this year, the addition of the TNGA-F platform.
Exterior Highlights for This Year
If you’re a big Toyota fan, you’ll notice right away that the front end strongly resembles the Tacoma now. It’s a good 3” wider that previous models. The fenders are more prominent to allow for the now larger tires and very cool trims. The wheelbase has been extended by 2.4 inches. If you remember the rear side window upper edge going up into the roof years ago, well this slick feature has returned for 2025.
What’s On the Inside
Again, we have some Tacoma features going on with the 4Runner, especially with instrument clusters, center stacks, and controls. They’re popular with the Tacoma, so why not share? You’ll find easy connectivity to using wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s plenty of storage and the organization inside is very user intuitive.
The Powertrain
You’ll have a choice of i-Force 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain. The i-Force Max gives you the electric motor addition and that helps save on fuel. But it also increases the power to 326 HP.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner
All in all, it is well-worth a test drive. While the trims are the usual choices, nothing really new there, but there’s plenty of other new features and options that have been making consumers very excited. If you buy quickly, you might get to save many $1000s by escaping the massive tariffs that might happen soon.
by Admin | May 20, 2024 | Mercedes Benz, Uncategorized
When the Ghostbusters were in the neighborhood, you knew that they were after something strange – and something weird that didn’t look good!
Well, the Ghostbusters are back, and this time, they’ve got a souped-up Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van on their side. That’s right, the iconic ECTO-1 has a new partner in crime-fighting (or should we say, slime-fighting?), and it’s called the ECTO-Z.
In the latest installment of the iconic Ghostbusters franchise, “Frozen Empire,” our favorite paranormal investigators have enlisted the help of a new team member: the mighty Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, affectionately dubbed the “ECTO-Z.”
To promote this paranormal partnership, Mercedes and Sony Pictures went all out, transforming the iconic New York firehouse from the original Ghostbusters into a frosty, icy wonderland. Fans could frolic amongst the ECTO-1 and ECTO-Z, snapping photos and undoubtedly dreaming of one day joining the phantom-fighting force themselves.
It’s a testament to the Sprinter’s unparalleled versatility that it can go from a sensible family hauler one day to a ghost-obliterating machine the next.
Though we have to wonder, if ghosts can pass through solid objects, would a Sprinter van even be able to… nah, you know what, we’re just gonna let the Ghostbusters handle that one.
Fully Loaded ECTO-Z to Save the World
That’s right, this bad boy is a fully loaded, ghost-busting machine on wheels, complete with a pull-out rack for all the latest ectoplasmic artillery.
Proton packs? Check. Ghost traps? You betcha. Muon scrubbers? Well, I have no idea what those are, but I’m sure they’re essential for battling the undead.
With advanced assist systems and seat heating (because who wants a frozen butt while hunting ghosts?), this Sprinter is ready to tackle even the most extreme icy conditions. After all, when you’re facing a potential second ice age, you need a ride that can handle the chill.
Sure, the beloved ECTO-1 will always hold a special place in our hearts, but the ECTO-Z is the sleek, modern cousin that’s here to show the ghostly world that the Ghostbusters mean business.
A Van for All Haunts of Life
The Sprinter has been setting the standards in its class for years, raising the bar on safety, ergonomics, efficiency, and comfort. But what really sets the Sprinter apart is its uncanny ability to transform into virtually any outfit imaginable.
From standard cargo haulers to fancy mobile hair salons and even decked-out camper vans, the Sprinter is like a blank canvas waiting for someone’s wildest vehicular dreams to be realized. Heck, Mercedes even took it a step further by electrifying this chameleon with the all-new eSprinter – the first all-electric Mercedes van to grace our roads.
by Admin | Oct 20, 2023 | Electric Cars, Uncategorized
In recent years, the sustainability movement has been gaining traction, perhaps due to growing awareness of the contribution of human activity to the increasing environmental degradation.
The Electric Vehicle (EV) tax credit is Uncle Sam’s attempt at jumpstarting the electric vehicle revolution. A federal tax credit provides a financial incentive for individuals who purchase an electric vehicle. Here’s what you need to know about the EV tax credit for 2023.
How the EV Tax Credit Works
The EV tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of federal income tax owed by the taxpayer. If the amount of the credit exceeds the taxpayer’s tax liability, the excess credit can be carried forward to future tax years. The amount of the credit depends on the battery capacity of the electric vehicle and the taxpayer’s income.
Qualifying for the EV Tax Credit
To qualify for the EV tax credit, the electric vehicle you choose must meet certain requirements. The vehicle must be new or used, and it must be purchased or leased by you as the taxpayer. In addition, the EV must also meet certain battery capacity requirements.
If the vehicle was purchased and delivered before April 18, 2023, the critical minerals and battery sourcing requirements do not apply. Instead, the credit amount is calculated as $2,500 if the battery has at least a 7-kilowatt-hour capacity, plus up to $5,000 for additional kilowatt hours above the base requirement of 7-kilowatt hours.
EV Tax Credit Amounts
The amount of the EV tax credit depends on the battery capacity of the electric vehicle and your income. As of 2023, the maximum tax credit is $7,500 for new electric vehicles and $4,000 for used electric vehicles.
The credit amount is reduced for taxpayers with higher incomes. The credit begins to phase out for taxpayers with incomes above $150,000 for joint filers, $112,500 for a head of household, or $75,000 for an individual.
Which Electric Vehicles Qualify for the EV Tax Credit?
Keep in mind that not all electric vehicles qualify for the EV tax credit. Your vehicle must meet certain battery capacity requirements and must be manufactured by a qualifying manufacturer (in North America). The IRS maintains a list of qualifying electric vehicles on its website. The list includes both new and used electric vehicles.
by Admin | Oct 5, 2023 | Jeep, Uncategorized
While the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been one of the most desirable SUVs for over two decades, it has not been without issues particular to the model.
For example, the failure of the temperature blend and recirculation doors has plagued hundreds of owners. When this problem occurs, the AC modes may fail to change, and there may be different temperatures on the left and right sides. This causes discomfort for passengers.
What Causes the Problem?
For starters, how common is the problem?
According to reports, the issue affects 21 Jeep Grand Cherokee model years, including 1994, 1997, 1998, and 1999. The average mileage of affected vehicles is 104,958, with a range of 18 to 272,666 miles.
So, what really happens?
The problem comes from the failure of the temperature blend and recirculation doors, which are responsible for regulating the temperature and airflow in the cabin.
When these doors fail, they can cause the AC modes not to change or the temperature to be different on the left and right sides. This can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for passengers, especially during the hot summer months.
So, what can you do?
Solutions
Fortunately, there are solutions available for owners of affected Jeep Grand Cherokees.
New heating, ventilation, and AC (HVAC) sub-assemblies are available that improve reliability. These sub-assemblies include new blend air doors, recirculation doors, door links, and sub-assembly housings.
By replacing these components with new and improved parts, owners can ensure that their AC system is functioning properly and that passengers are comfortable during their travels.
If you are experiencing AC problems in your Jeep Grand Cherokee, consider replacing these components with new and improved parts to ensure that your vehicle is functioning properly. Contact A1 Performance Auto Repair if you’re having problems with your Jeep Grand Cherokee.
by Admin | Aug 20, 2022 | Aston Martin, Uncategorized
The Aston Martin V8 model is the official bond vehicle, with bells and whistles.
While Aston no doubt oozes class and style, the vehicle will often encounter some issues, often too familiar with the model. Even 007 needs some time off to service his ‘Bond’s Mobil.’
Issue with Transmission
Transmission failure is the most prevalent issue with the V8 Vantage 2010-2013 models. The problem was so prevalent that the manufacturer issued a global recall.
The Vantage drivers would often experience frequent stalling, where the vehicle known for its impressive performance would lose power.
After troubleshooting, the culprit for the transmission issue was found to be the software update. In particular, it was mostly from technicians that hadn’t installed the update correctly to allow the proper reprogramming of the clutch. Aston Martin servicing requires experienced hands.
Even though the issue was resolved, the Sportshift is still a risk for contemporary drivers. For this reason, you should invest in a qualified professional service schedule such as A1 Performance.
What You Should do To Keep Your Vantage on the Road
The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a capable vehicle if you give its transmission the necessary TLC. Follow the factory-scheduled maintenance and look out for signs of failure such as:
- Frequent stalling
- Random shifting
- Transmission fluid leaks
- Challenges getting the vehicle into gear
If you notice any of the above with your ‘Bonds Mobil,’ get it looked at by a professional. Keep in mind that your Aston needs frequent check-ups to keep it performing at the highest level.
A1 Performance are experts in European vehicles. We’ll service your Aston Martin, troubleshoot any problem, and repair it to keep it on the road. We know how much you need it on the road with you, and we’ll work to ensure that.
by Admin | Jun 20, 2022 | Auto Care Blog, Auto Mechanic, Uncategorized
Early discovery of transmission issues can save you big bucks in repair bills. Transmission failure is not hard to detect when you’re keen enough. Don’t wish the problem away when you notice something is amiss because it will not.
Visit your garage service when you notice any of the following symptoms.
Leaking Fluid
A pool of reddish fluid under your car is the most straightforward indicator of identifying a transmission problem. Let your mechanic know when the trouble starts, and they’ll check the transmission fluid level.
Burning Smell
A burning smell is a powerful indicator of something wrong with the transmission. The transmission may be overheating, or the transmission fluid may be burnt and old.
Dragging Clutch
A failure to disengage the clutch disc when you press the clutch pedal causes a clash of the gears. The leading cause of a dragging clutch is clutch misplacement and mechanical failure.
Difficulty in Switching Gears
When changing gears becomes a daily struggle, your transmission system is in the process of giving in. Sometimes, it could be you’re using the incorrect type of transmission fluid, or the transmission fluid is leaking somewhere.
Slipping Gears
A slipping transmission is dangerous and a telltale sign that the system is broken. A delay in acceleration and general harsh response when shifting gears and revving indicate slipping gears.
Sometimes, the gear change will be unresponsive when moving from park to drive.
Noises when You’re in Neutral
Weird noises when the vehicle is in neutral are not a good sign. At the minimum, it can mean the transmission fluid is overdue for a change, or the system needs a check by a professional.
Other strange noises such as humming, clunking and whining when driving are not good signs. Let a professional have their hands on it immediately.
A1 Performance Auto Repair can check your transmission and repair it if needed. We can also inspect for other problems and ensure your car is whole again for daily use.
