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Why Mount Airy Drivers Need to Pay Extra Attention – Insights from Top Service Manager Chris Pack Driving in the Blue Ridge Mountains is beautiful—but it’s also harder on your vehicle than most people realize. Our top service manager, Chris Pack, explains in two recent videos that mountain driving and dramatic temperature swings put extra strain on both brakes and tires. Long downhill grades, constant elevation changes, sharp curves, and hot-cold seasonal extremes all speed up wear that would be mild in flatter regions. His message is simple: Stay ahead on brake and tire maintenance, and you’ll save money—and stay much safer—than waiting until something goes wrong. Below is your complete guide to brake and tire care in mountain conditions, including answers to the most-searched questions drivers ask online. Why Are the Mountains Tough on Brakes? In the Mount Airy region, the steep, twisty mountain roads mean drivers brake more often and more aggressively than those in flat areas. Add temperature swings—from freezing winter mornings to hot summer afternoons—and brake components expand, contract, and wear out faster. This combination makes proactive brake maintenance essential, not optional. Is it safe to drive with bad brakes? Driving with worn or failing brakes is dangerous anywhere—but especially in the mountains. If you must drive, stopping distance will be much longer, and you’ll need to avoid sudden braking. On steep grades, failing brakes can overheat quickly, leading to brake fade and a loss of stopping power. Can you replace your own brakes? Yes, some drivers choose to replace their own brake pads— but only if they truly understand the process. Brake work requires precision and proper safety handling. Front brakes are usually more straightforward, but rear drum brakes or advanced braking systems can be tricky. If in doubt, it’s safer (and often cheaper long-term) to let a certified Toyota technician handle it. What are the signs of worn brakes? Look and listen for: Squealing, grinding, or scraping noises A soft, spongy, or vibrating brake pedal Visible thin brake pads (check through the wheel spokes) Dashboard brake warning lights Longer distances required to stop your vehicle If you notice these signs, schedule service right away—mountain braking only accelerates the problem. Should I replace all four brake pads at once? Ideally, yes. At the very least, brakes should be replaced in axle pairs (both fronts together or both rears together). Installing pads unevenly can lead to unbalanced braking, which may cause pulling, extra wear, or unsafe stopping behavior—especially on winding NC mountain roads. What’s included in a full brake job? A comprehensive brake service typically includes: A complete brake system inspection Replacement of worn pads Resurfacing or replacement of rotors Inspection or servicing of calipers, brake lines, and hydraulic components Brake fluid check or replacement This ensures your entire system—not just one component—is operating safely. How much do new brakes cost at a typical Toyota dealership? Pricing varies by model, but generally: Brake pad replacement: $150–$300 per axle Pads + rotors: $500–$800 for all four wheels Your exact total depends on the vehicle, parts used, and how much wear has occurred. Mount Airy Toyota always provides upfront pricing so you know exactly what to expect. How often should car brakes be replaced? Most vehicles need new brakes somewhere between 25,000 and 65,000 miles. However, here in the mountains of North Carolina, brakes tend to wear out sooner due to: Repeated downhill braking Sharp curves requiring frequent speed adjustments Frequent temperature swings For mountain driving, we recommend inspections every 10,000–12,000 miles or at every oil change. Does the quality of my tires affect my brake life? Absolutely. High-quality, properly inflated tires help the vehicle grip the road more effectively, reducing the amount of work your brakes must do. Poor-quality or worn tires make your braking system work harder and wear out faster. Why Mountain Driving Is Tough on Tires Like brakes, tires suffer more in our region. Curvy, hilly roads, temperature fluctuations, and rougher mountain surfaces all contribute to faster wear. According to Chris Pack, neglecting tires in the mountains can be as dangerous as neglecting your brakes. Here’s how tires directly impact braking performance: How Tire Quality Impacts Brake Life Better grip = less brake strain High-quality tires use stronger rubber compounds and smarter tread patterns. When grip improves, stopping distance gets shorter—and your brakes don’t have to work as hard. Improved stopping power and less ABS activation Good tires maintain traction longer, allowing brakes to apply force without slipping. This means your ABS doesn’t need to intervene as often, which reduces stress on brake components. Worn tires increase brake wear As tires lose tread, they struggle to grip the pavement—especially on wet or sloped mountain roads. This causes brakes to work harder and heat up more quickly, accelerating pad and rotor wear. Proper tire pressure is critical Both underinflated and overinflated tires reduce your braking efficiency. Maintaining the recommended tire pressure helps ensure optimal traction, stability, and braking performance. Final Thoughts from Mount Airy Toyota Mountain driving demands more from your brakes and tires than typical conditions. That’s why Chris Pack and our entire service team emphasize regular inspections, timely replacement, and investing in quality components. By keeping up with brake and tire maintenance, you’ll: ✔ Stay safer on the road ✔ Prevent costly repairs ✔ Enjoy smoother, more controlled driving ✔ Extend the life of your vehicle If you have questions or want a complimentary brake or tire inspection, the Mount Airy Toyota Service Center is here to help.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Toyota in Mount Airy, NC When you live and drive in the foothills and mountains around Mount Airy, NC, your tires aren’t just rubber on the road—they’re your first line of defense against unpredictable mountain weather, icy roads, and rugged terrain. At Mount Airy Toyota, our service team knows that choosing the right tires can make all the difference in safety, performance, and comfort. In our recent YouTube Short, our Service Manager, Chris Pack, walks through how different vehicles, driving styles, and terrain demand different tires. You’ll learn of how tire treads vary and why one size doesn’t fit all. That visual short helps bring this tire education to life. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, or truck, your tire needs are unique. Add in the challenges of snow, ice, rain, and gravel roads—and it’s easy to see why one-size-fits-all tires simply don’t work. Let’s explore how to choose the perfect tires for your Toyota—and why now is the perfect time to take advantage of Toyota’s Buy 3, Get the 4th for $1 Tire Sale! Why Tire Choice Matters in the Mountains Driving in Mount Airy means tackling steep inclines, winding roads, and seasonal snow or ice. Your tires must handle all of it while providing grip, comfort, and fuel efficiency. T he right tire for the right vehicle and terrain means safer driving. Elevation changes create more stress on tires, snow and ice require flexibility, rough terrain demands durability, and rain needs special tread channels. The right tires keep you safe and performing year-round. Types of Tires and Their Best Uses Different vehicles and driving styles call for different tire types. Here’s a breakdown of the most common categories—some of which you’ll see demonstrated in the video. Tire Type Best For Ideal Vehicles Terrain & Conditions Key Features All-Season Tires Everyday driving Sedans (Camry, Corolla), Crossovers (RAV4) Moderate climates, light snow Balanced tread for comfort & fuel economy All-Terrain Tires Mixed on/off-road use SUVs (Highlander, 4Runner), Trucks (Tacoma, Tundra) Dirt, gravel, mud, snow Deep treads & reinforced sidewalls Winter / Snow Tires Cold and icy conditions Any vehicle used in winter Snow, slush, ice Softer rubber and added siping Performance Tires Sporty handling Sport models (GR86, Camry XSE) Dry roads, high speeds Low tread depth for cornering & braking Mud-Terrain Tires Off-road adventure 4×4s and lifted trucks Mud, rocks, deep ruts Aggressive tread & self-cleaning Touring Tires Long-distance comfort Sedans, hybrids Highways & paved roads Quiet ride and even wear Tires for Sedans Toyota sedans like the Camry, Corolla, and Avalon need tires that balance comfort, fuel efficiency, and traction for changing weather. Recommended: All-Season or Touring tires. They offer a quiet ride and handle light snow well. If you compare all-season tire against a winter-rated tire on a frozen surface you will see that traction differences can be dramatic. For sportier handling, performance tires are great, but they’re not ideal for snow. Tires for SUVs SUVs like the RAV4, Highlander, and 4Runner face mixed terrain—from city pavement to gravel backroads and snow. Recommended: All-Terrain or All-Season tires. They provide traction on mountains while staying smooth on highways. Swap to winter tires if you drive in higher elevations. The difference between an SUV highway tire and a mixed-terrain tire is in the stiffer sidewalls and deeper grooves that improve control in the mountains. Tires for Trucks For trucks like the Tacoma and Tundra, tire choice depends on use. Daily drivers benefit from All-Season or Touring tires for comfort and fuel economy. Work and towing trucks do better with All-Terrain tires for durability. Off-roaders will want Mud-Terrain tires for maximum traction. Heavy-duty tires differ in construction. Those load ratings matter for mountain towing. Truck tires also feature reinforced sidewalls for steep, heavy hauls. Tires for Different Terrains Mount Airy roads can mean pavement one day and ice the next.  Here's how tread patterns perform across different conditions: Paved Roads: Smooth tread reduces road noise and improves efficiency. Snow & Ice: Winter tires stay flexible and grip cold surfaces. Look for the snowflake symbol. Gravel & Dirt: All-terrain tires have wider grooves that grip loose surfaces. Mud & Trails: Mud-terrain tires clean themselves to maintain traction. Rain: Deep circumferential grooves prevent hydroplaning by channeling water out from under the tire. How to Check Your Tires for Wear and Tear Keep your tires in top shape with these checks: Tread Depth: Use a penny—if you see all of Lincoln’s head, replace the tire. In the video, the manager uses a tread gauge to show this difference. Uneven Wear: Can signal alignment issues. The video shows how edge wear looks on a misaligned tire. Cracks or Bulges: These are signs of damage and need immediate replacement. Pressure: Cold weather and altitude changes can lower pressure quickly—check monthly. When to Replace or Rotate Tires Replace tires every 5–6 years or 40k–60k miles, depending on use. Rotate every 5k–7.5k miles to ensure even wear. Alignment should be checked yearly or if your car pulls to one side. R otation may not be optional for mountain drivers because curves and elevation make uneven wear happen faster. How Long Tires Last in the Mountains of NC Mountain driving wears tires faster. Expect: All-Season: 45k–60k miles All-Terrain: 40k–50k miles Winter: 3–4 winter seasons Keep them inflated, balanced, and rotated for maximum life. Take Advantage of Toyota’s Tire Sale Now’s the perfect time to get new tires for your Toyota! Mount Airy Toyota is proud to offer Toyota’s Buy 3, Get the 4th for $1 Sale, available for a limited time. Waiting to replace worn tires means risking your safety—so take advantage of this deal before the first snow hits. Our certified team will match the best tires to your Toyota, terrain, and driving style. Schedule Your Tire Service Today Don’t wait for the ice to find out your tires aren’t ready. Visit MountAiryToyota.com or call our Service Center to schedule your tire inspection or replacement today. Drive safer, smoother, and smarter—with the right tires for your Toyota and your mountain lifestyle.

Get the best tire deals at Mount Airy Toyota tire center! The Value of Driving on Great Tires: Safety, Performance, and Investment Tires are the only part of your car that makes direct contact with the road, making them one of the most critical components of your vehicle. They influence safety, fuel efficiency, handling, and overall driving experience. At Mount Airy Toyota tire center, we supply and install high-quality tires for every make and model, ensuring that drivers get the best performance and longevity from their investment. Let’s explore why great tires matter, from their materials and history to economic factors that influence their pricing. The Safety Factor: Why Quality Tires Matter Your tires play a crucial role in keeping you safe on the road. Worn-out or low-quality tires can lead to dangerous situations, including loss of traction, hydroplaning, blowouts, and decreased braking performance. Here’s why investing in top-quality tires is essential: Traction and Grip: High-quality tires provide superior grip on the road, reducing the chances of skidding or sliding in wet, icy, or dry conditions. Braking Performance: Better tires allow for shorter stopping distances, which can be lifesaving in an emergency. Handling and Stability: Properly designed tires improve vehicle stability, reducing body roll and making steering more responsive. Tread Wear and Longevity: Durable tires last longer, providing value over time and reducing the frequency of replacements. What Are Tires Made Of? Modern tires are complex, made of a blend of materials designed to optimize performance and durability. Key components include: Natural and Synthetic Rubber: The primary component for flexibility and traction. Steel Belts: Reinforce the tire’s structure and provide strength. Textile Cords: Often made from polyester or nylon, these help maintain the tire’s shape. Carbon Black and Silica: Enhance durability, wear resistance, and grip. Chemicals and Oils: Improve elasticity and temperature resistance. The combination of these materials is carefully engineered to ensure tires meet specific performance standards for various driving conditions. A Brief History of Tires The evolution of tires is fascinating. In the late 19th century, John Boyd Dunlop developed the first practical pneumatic tire, which revolutionized transportation. Before that, vehicles used solid rubber tires, which provided a rough and uncomfortable ride. The introduction of radial tires by Michelin in 1946 further transformed the industry, improving performance and longevity. The Best of the Best: What’s the Top Tire? While there are many high-performance tires on the market, Michelin’s Pilot Sport 4S is often regarded as the pinnacle of tire technology. It offers superior grip, handling, and durability, making it a favorite for luxury and high-performance vehicles. Other premium brands like Pirelli, Bridgestone, and Continental also offer exceptional options for different driving needs. The Impact of Tariffs on Tire Prices Tires are sourced from manufacturers around the world, including the United States, Japan, China, and Europe. If tariffs are introduced or increased on imported tires, prices could rise significantly. This would affect both manufacturers and consumers, leading to higher costs for raw materials and finished products. In such a scenario, buying from a dealership that sources a variety of tires might provide cost-saving options without compromising quality. Why Buy Tires from a Reputable Dealership? Purchasing tires from a trusted dealership ensures you receive genuine, high-quality products along with professional installation. Benefits include: Expert Guidance: Dealership staff can recommend the best tires based on your driving habits and vehicle specifications. Warranty Protection: Many dealership-supplied tires come with manufacturer warranties for added peace of mind. Proper Storage and Handling: Dealerships store tires under optimal conditions, preventing premature degradation. Comprehensive Services: From balancing and alignment to rotation services, a dealership provides complete tire care. The Importance of Proper Installation Even the best tires won’t perform well if they aren’t installed correctly. Proper installation impacts: Ride Comfort: Correctly installed tires reduce vibrations and ensure a smooth ride. Alignment and Balance: Proper balancing prevents uneven tire wear and steering issues. Fuel Efficiency: Well-installed tires reduce rolling resistance, improving gas mileage. Longevity: Professional installation helps extend the lifespan of your tires by ensuring they function as intended. Conclusion: Invest in Quality for Safety and Performance Your vehicle’s tires are a crucial investment in your safety, driving experience, and overall vehicle performance. Choosing high-quality tires, buying from a reputable dealership, and ensuring professional installation all contribute to getting the most out of your purchase. At Mount Airy Toyota, we provide a wide range of tires for every make and model, ensuring that you drive with confidence, no matter the road ahead.

With the holiday season approaching, people are scrambling for the best gift ideas. Six in 10 Americans say they worry about being “out-gifted” during the holidays, and 62% have the lofty ambition of being their family’s best gift-giver. In other words, this season can create a lot of stress. Those with a car lover in their family are guaranteed an even greater challenge. While car lovers are common, finding interesting gifts for them is a rarity, something self-identified car lovers will also relate to. So, whether you’re looking to treat someone else or yourself, you will likely hit your share of roadblocks. If you count yourself among those who have been searching the web for the perfect gift, look no further—the professionals at Mount Airy Toyota are ready to help you navigate the holiday season! TLC and Convenience For Any Ride When you think of a dealership during the holiday season, your mind may immediately go to a new vehicle as a seasonal gift. While Mount Airy Toyota has countless new and used vehicles that’ll be certain to give the recipient the best holiday of their life, it isn’t the only way you can show your appreciation for the car lover in your life. Let’s look at some tried-and-tested accessories to consider: Car Cleaning Essentials We’ve all been stuck in line at a car wash, or a little hesitant to put as much trust as is required into automated car washes. Whatever the case, sometimes going to a car wash isn’t ideal. There are some pretty impressive car wash kits on the market, with multiple pieces and products that guarantee a level equal to, or above, car-wash cleaning. Some products even make waxing much easier, allowing you to treat your car at home easily instead of driving to the nearest car wash. In the same vein as cleaning, having a car vacuum is vital if you’re trying to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Battery-powered wireless vacuums are ideal because they allow you to reach all the nooks and crannies that need the most help. Gone are the days of parking next to a vacuum stall only to find that the machine you just put your quarters in has seen better days. Car Camping Gear At a glance, this might seem over-the-top, but car camping has become an increasingly common practice, and the associated products have advanced at surprising levels. Car camping isn’t easy with a smaller vehicle, but if you need a gift for an SUV owner in your life, car camping products could fit the bill. SUVs like Toyota’s RAV4, Highlander, Sequoia, and many more provide spacious interiors ready to be converted into a luxury camping experience! Add-ons and gear like a trunk or truck bed tent noticeably transform any vehicle into a campsite-ready camper. Interior-tailored sleeping bags, window covers, and blankets will create a camping experience any family will remember for years to come. Car Fresheners Scent is one of the first things people notice when they enter their vehicle. You could opt for the classic black-ice Christmas tree freshener, or you could step it up with one of the many luxury fresheners on the market. Sprays, vent clip-ons, candles, and diffusers are just a few ways fresheners have advanced past the typical over-the-rearview mirror freshener. Why settle for the scent everyone has when you can give a gift that’s sure to please even the hardest-to-please giftee? Remote Start System For friends or loved ones who live in colder or hotter climates, a remote start system could be the best gift they’ve ever received. While some of the newer Toyota’s come equipped with remote start, older models can have these systems installed. Reaching out to a qualified dealership and asking about the model of the gifted vehicle is a great start to getting the system up and running in any Toyota. The auto brand also offers remote connect, an app for your smartphone that allows you to manage more than just starting your vehicle from afar; the app is perfect for a uniquely cold or hot day. Tesla Charging Adaptor It’s no secret that Toyota is the leader in electric vehicles. Charging stations are growing at unprecedented rates, and it’s easier for EV owners to store their vehicle chargers than ever before. Still, some EV manufacturers have limited their chargers to only serving their vehicles. Tesla is an excellent example of that; its chargers are designed only for the brand’s models. While there are far fewer Tesla stations than other EV charging stations, gaining new places to use charge is highly valuable. Still, adaptors exist that will allow your Toyota EVs to utilize level 1 and 2 chargers. This gift will open up a whole new world of travel to your giftees. With a Tesla charging adaptor, Toyota’s hybrids and EVs (the same ones available at Mount Airy Toyota), will be able to access an even wider array of charging stalls. Tires As the weather gets colder, new tires become a necessity. This page on Mount Airy Toyota’s site explains it best! “The right tires not only help contribute to your vehicle's handling and performance but can also impact fuel efficiency and safety as well.” Even the best, most advanced high-performing vehicle is only as good as its tires. Many Americans forgo replacing tires when needed because of the cost associated with a new set. This can lead to potentially dangerous situations, while also hampering fuel efficiency and general performance. Mount Airy Toyota not only offers excellent tires—with a variety to fit any driver's preference, vehicle, and driving—but we have factory-trained and certified Toyota technicians who can mount new tires and balance them to fit any Toyota’s specifications. Any vehicle owner would appreciate the gift, and you’d be making your loved one’s driving experience immeasurably safer. Also, remember that you’re not the first person to buy new tires from Mount Airy Toyota, and you won’t be the last. That means you’ll receive excellent customer care and tires of the highest quality. And there are countless reviews to back up that claim, such as: “Got a great price on my new tires. Great service, friendly and helpful staff.” - Michelle Hanks Air Compressor Kit This is a gift that ties together nicely with a new set of tires, though any driver would appreciate it, even if they didn’t recently buy new tires from Mount Airy Toyota. Air compressor kits allow you to monitor your tires’ air pressure and ensure they’re always at their best, translating into a longer tire life. Not to mention, it can correct any tire that’s had a small leak. This lets a driver focus on their tires, not the nearest gas station that has an air compressor. Having an air compressor in your vehicle also makes it possible to help any friend or family member with a similar problem. Increasing Cargo Space Hitch cargo carriers and rooftop cargo bags are one of the best ways to expand on an already crammed trunk. People who drive regularly know how critical it is to optimize cargo space. Hitch cargo carriers and rooftop cargo bags can serve as the new trunk you’ve always been asking for! A New Car! As we said earlier, a new car isn’t the only gift you can give a car lover for the holiday season, but it is the ultimate gift. Other gift ideas can improve your giftee’s driving experience and provide some much-needed TLC to their everyday vehicle; still, sometimes what someone really needs is a new car altogether! Mount Airy Toyota has countless new models available this holiday season, all of which are at the very top of the automotive industry. We also understand the need for new vehicles during the holidays and want to give car buyers the best deal possible, so everyone leaves the season feeling like a winner. There’s something for everyone on our lot. Mount Airy Toyota’s digital model showroom lets you take a detailed look at the inventory, something that makes tailoring the gift of a new vehicle much easier. While buying a new vehicle can be a heavy lift, Mount Airy Toyota’s financing center has you covered. Qualified professionals at the dealership want to make the buying experience as easy as possible. After all, nobody wants to be a Grinch! So, don’t wait to get your holiday shopping done! Treat yourself, or the car lover in your life, and come out as the best gift giver this year. Consult this guide as you shop, and have a wonderful holiday season!

Worn, old, or even cheaply-made tires can be hazardous to your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency, not to mention it is incredibly dangerous to drive with bad tires: a blow out while driving is sure to turn your knuckles white as you grip the steering wheel to try and navigate your vehicle to the side of the road. Luckily, Mount Airy Toyota’s Service Center can get you the exact replacements you need and at a very competitive price. Our factory-trained and certified Toyota technicians will ensure that your tires are mounted, balanced, and inflated to match your Toyota vehicle's specifications. What makes November tire month? With that hot summer behind us and a cold winter ahead of us, this is the most important time to check your tires. Drastic seasonal change means drivers need to be sure their tires can handle the cooling weather. During those hot spring and summer months, your car’s tires were worn and stretched from changes in air pressure, and extreme heat—like what we experience here in the South—tends to cause dry rot. Before your next car ride, complete the following steps to make sure you don’t end up stranded: Check the tire pressure and if any are low get them filled right away. If a tire, or tires, are extremely low we recommend not driving it unless there is a service station nearby. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to have someone come and fill your low tires. Have your tires rotated regularly. Our service department can keep your tires lasting as long as possible with regular rotations and check-ups. Have your tires professionally aligned. Anytime you get new tires or have been driving on the same ones for a year or so, it’s a good idea to have them checked and aligned. Keep an eye on the tread of each tire. (More on this in a minute.) Make sure your spare is in good repair. You hope to never need your spare, but if the time ever comes when you do need it, make sure it is full and ready for use. Do I Need New Tires? The Penny Test just got a lot more expensive; time for the Quarter Test. If you aren’t aware of the Penny Test, this was a method used to check the tread in tires to see if they need replacing. The test is taking a penny, turning it upside down so the top of Honest Abe’s head is pointed towards the car tire’s tread. Press the penny between the rows and see how much of his head is visible. The more of his head you can see, the better the chance you need new tires. This test is still a valid way to check your tires, but instead of using a penny, it has been found that a quarter is more accurate at finding the standard minimum depth of 4/32.” Winter Tires Not everyone needs snow tires, but anywhere there is a possibility of ice or snow—even the slightest chance—we advise looking into purchasing a set. They don't have to be incredibly expensive, and they can help keep you safe on the road this winter. With their intricate designs and soft rubber, they grip the ice and snow for better traction. This winter we like the Nokian Hakkapelitta. They start at around $120 per tire and are worth every penny. With Nokian, you get superior performance, especially on ice, but great traction through the snow as well. Nokian has a long history with winter tires, and creates a great one for a good price—$120 may seem a little high, but believe me, those prices can get much higher. If you want to pay a little less, you should look at either the Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 or the Michelin X-Ice X13. Both are noted as being equally effective in winter conditions and are highly recommended for anyone who lives in areas that drop in temperature to below 45 degrees. With a price of $85 they are more than affordable, and if taken care of, will last at least three to four seasons. Lastly, you can’t go wrong with a General Altimax Arctic. Though this suitable tire is not noted as being quite up to par with the Nokian Hakkapelitta, or the Blizzak and X-Ice, it still comes highly recommended by experts and owners alike. At around $50, it’s the best snow tire for the price, and a great option for those living in areas that don’t get a lot of snow, but do experience a little ice in the winter. Stay safe this winter by switching into snow tires. Take good care of them with routine check-ups and change them out when needed. You won’t regret it. Sure winter snow can be beautiful and a lot of fun. But when it comes to driving in it there are many potential dangers that, if prepared for in advance, can be avoided. This said, it is shocking how many drivers do not prepare themselves for these possibly treacherous conditions. Here are two basic rules that can keep you safe while driving this winter season: 1. Anticipate what is ahead. Driving on ice and snow requires smooth, precise, and careful control of the steering wheel. Try and keep your wheels straight as much as possible, and when you do have to turn, slowly turn the wheel—this will require you to anticipate turns ahead of time so that you do not end up sliding into other lanes, or worse, off the road. Just remember, you want to avoid any sharp movements of your vehicle. Slow and steady gets you there safely. 2. Know your stopping distances. Slowing down, for upcoming turns or otherwise, requires much more distance when driving on snow or ice. Be sure that you have clear visibility of road signs, stoplights, and other cars so that you can break well before you reach them. When you do apply the brakes, keep your heal on the floor and softly press the brake peddle with the ball of your foot. Again, try and keep your steering as straight as possible to avoid any skidding. If you do happen to hit a patch of ice and feel the vehicle begin to slip, start to pump the brakes by letting off the peddle and pressing (softly) it back down over and over until you regain control of the vehicle. If this does happen, be sure to remain calm and keep your movements soft and slow. With braking and steering under control, drivers can navigate through snow and ice in a controlled and safe way. A word to the wise though, beware of other drivers who do not know these two rules—you can recognize them by their jerky movements and inability to keep from skidding—and keep as much distance between you and them as possible. Time To Upgrade If you find your tires are out of shape, or even if you just aren’t sure if they need replacing, our certified technicians can help with tire alignment, tire rotation, tire installation, and tire patching. Our qualified tire installers and alignment specialists do not require an appointment, and we offer the 110% Price Guarantee—a program where Mount Airy Toyota will beat any price on any tire, no matter the make or brand. If you can show evidence of someone offering a tire at a lower price, we will beat it! Here’s how you can find your tires without leaving the comfort and safety of your own home: Access our service center website and scroll down to where you can fill in your vehicle’s specific information—year, make, model, trim and click “shop now” to immediately get a full list of tires and prices for your car. Once you find what you want, you can purchase or contact us to get more information on the tires, the process of having them put on, etc. We can also go over our COVID protocols so you can see how we take every precaution necessary to get you back to safely driving on the road. (Shop for tires now and take advantage of our sale: buy three tires and get the fourth for $1!) We love saving our customers money, and nothing makes us feel better than knowing you are driving on tires that grip the road and hug those turns.

If you have not heard already, the Toyota Supra is back after two decades of absence in North America. Its arrival in mid-2019 has caused an uproar among major Supra fans and Toyota enthusiasts. Here at Mount Airy Toyota, we are so excited to tell you all about the 2020 Supra, what it means for long-time fans of the car, and how a new generation will be ready to fall in love this year with the Supra. Witness the return of a legendary sports car this summer The Toyota Supra is back for 2020. In terms of hype, it is similar to witnessing the end of Avengers or the final season of Game of Thrones; there are definitely cult followings and there are major fans out there who have awaited its return. After 20 years, this beloved sports car is back. Revival does not even begin to cover it The revival of this 1980s and early 1990s classic, two decades after it was discontinued, was unveiled at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show. Every Supra shares the same core fundamentals with a smooth inline six up front, rear-wheel drive, and a modern chassis. The 2020 Supra will feature the classic long-hood, low-riding, two-door design, and short-deck proportion, as well. But, in line with Toyota’s mission to deliver the purest expression of performance, the 2020 Supra will redefine sports cars just as it has time and time again. Take a step back in time to appreciate the present The 1993 Supra Turbo was praised for its acceleration, skid pad performance, and antilock brakes that set records at a 70 mph stopping distance. The 3.0-liter engine did not rank well with American consumers, however, and with the $39,900 price tag, Toyota only sold 2,901 cars. In 1996, Toyota was required to re-engineer the Supra to include the OBD II systems, inflating the model’s base cost to $38,600. This made the ’93 Supra Turbo model soar to $50,400 in 1996. As a result, Toyota only sold 852 Supras in ’96, and at that time, had not reached the point of selling 10,000 Supras in the United States. By 1998, while Toyota sales were beginning to recover, the Supra just wasn’t selling as expected. Buyers simply were not willing to pay what the Supra costed, despite its incredible performance and advanced powertrain. This led to the development of racing enthusiasts who became cult followers of the Supra, as they understood that the Supra Turbo’s 2JZ-GTE had enormous amounts of power and boost. A true cinematic vehicle For the younger generations who are not long-time fans of the Supra, they just might get all the hype if they have watched one of the biggest film franchises of the past ten years, where the car was featured and gained a new reputation among the millennial audience. The timeline definitely did not stop in the year ’98 for the Toyota Supra. In the year 2000, the National Import Racing Associate director, Craig Lieberman, had modified a Supra Turbo to 600 horsepower and was showing it off at an imported car show. It was at this point that he was approached by a man who asked him to consult on a film about racing. This film was called Redline, and it featured a character named Officer Brian O'Connor, and an all-too-familiar plotline that we all recognize now about street racing and big-rig heists. The film we’re talking about here had a name change, from Redline to The Fast and the Furious. Before the script hit filming, the producers had to change a main character’s vehicle from a Nissan 240SX to, yes, you guessed it, the Supra. This was because the producers needed to pull a character off of a truck and through a car’s sunroof in the movie’s climactic scene, thus requiring a car with a Targa top and the credibility as a power-driven performance car. As the highest grossing film of 2001, and a classic series reaching millions and millions of fans, The Fast and the Furious was a landmark film for car culture and the racing scene across America. It was also because of the film that the Supra went from being unable to sell in ten years what the Corvette sold in one year, to a nine-second drag car capable of holding its line with major racing names. The launch of the 2020 Toyota Supra The Supra is finally back after 20 years, and the newest model is only being offered as an automatic and sporting a BMW engine. The top-end model has an inline-six twin-turbo engine producing 335hp, similar to numbers of the Supra that debuted in 1993. Will it deliver on the hype though? Let’s dive into it. Zero to (almost) 100, real fast If you are interested in power, then you will fall in love with the Toyota Supra. In its advertisements, the Supra reported 335 horsepower and 365-lb of torque. Needless to say, this car can really move. Then, Car and Driver gave it a run and revealed that it can hit 60 mph in only 3.8 seconds. Now that is fast. This powerhouse is being co-developed with BMW and will share its architecture with the upcoming Z4, meaning the 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is shared with the Z4. It will boast a 3-liter, 6-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower, 365-lb-ft. of torque, and an 8-speed automatic transmission. This means going from 0-60 miles an hour in an estimated 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 with a curb weight of 3397 pounds. The engine is as far back and as low as possible, which optimizes the center of gravity for a 50:50 front/rear weight distribution—making your drive, no matter the speed, as smooth as possible. Toyota’s approach to the design was to create the best driver’s car, full stop. Drivers in the Supra can control the throttle with millimeter precision. The Supra is extremely well positioned in the market with its manageable and impressive performance. Toyota never sells on just one feature Toyota understands that one of the main selling points of the original supra was the incredible engine and powertrain, but they also know that the rest of the car has to measure up to consumer expectations. That is why Toyota invested so much time into engineering the rest of the car just as carefully as the engine itself. This is not to mention, too, that Toyota has definitely learned from its longstanding history and fan base with the Supra. If the car performed so well, followed by years of low sales, then temporarily forgotten, then Toyota will only build a successor that will be remembered and revered. So let us fully focus on what the Mk.5 has to offer. Styling The first thing you will notice about the 2020 Supra is that it is truly a work of art. The science behind the design is just as impressive and is what really makes the car a masterpiece. The wide grille is designed to channel cool air directly to the turbocharged engine, which in turn, helps optimize performance. The “double-bubble” roof adds space inside the vehicle, while also reducing aerodynamic drive outside. Intakes and vents are everywhere. And, as with any expectation for a sports car, the rear spoiler reduces body life and keeps the Supra planted at high speeds. The wheelbase is 97.2 inches and the length is 172.5. Unlike previous Supras, the 2020 only seats two, with more than sufficient space for someone over 6ft. The cargo area, albeit narrow, can more than handle your weekend getaway luggage. The 2020 Supra has already received great reception on the look and feel of the vehicle, as it remained true to its highly regarded lineage. Control Toyota provided a rigid chassis, adaptive suspension, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires to ensure that the Supra drives as good as it looks. Long turns will have you feeling what the car can do, plus you can steer with the extremely responsive throttle. Slide into Sport mode, turn off traction control, and you can really enjoy the Supra’s suspension tuning, steering feel, and body rigidity. With the tightness in the center of the vehicle, the car turns in quickly and provides a comforting sense of confidence at high speeds. Even with high winds and broken pavement, the rigid chassis delivers a sensational ride quality. Safety The Supra is equipped with its active differential and Brembo front brakes, ensuring that the driver has ultimate control over the vehicle. This new model will, of course, come decked out with LED headlights, a 6.5” infotainment screen, forward collision warning, automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a sports mode. Trim levels The Supra will be available in three trim levels: 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and Launch Edition. The standard 3.0 trims include a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive suspension, forward collision warning, launch control, and shift paddles. The 3.0 Premium trim upgrades the infotainment screen to an 8.8-inch touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, a 12-speaker sound system, wireless charging, a color head-up display, and heated, leather-upholstered seats. The GR Supra Launch Edition will only be available to a lucky few. Why? Because the GR Supra Launch Edition is limited to only 1500 units. The Launch edition will include 19-inch, unique matte-black wheels, and a red leather interior, red mirror caps, and an individually numbered interior badge with Akio Toyoda’s signature. The Supra Launch edition is available in Renaissance Red 2.0, Nocturnal or Absolute Zero. Fun fact: The very first globally produced all-new 2020 GR Supra was auctioned off for $2.1 million dollars this year. This all happened at the Barrett-Jackson Auction, where proceeds benefitted the American Heart Association and the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which aids injured veterans and their families. The buyer’s identity hasn’t been released yet, but we do know that the first Supra was flat gray with red mirror caps, black wheels, and had red upholstery. The winner’s car was signed by Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda on the engine bay, and received a racing suit, driving gloves, shoes, and the helmet Akio wore when he personally tested the Supra during its development. Price The base price for this vehicle is $45,000. The Launch edition has a starting MSRP of $55,250. The 3.0 Premium has a starting MSRP of $53,990. The 3.0 has a starting MSRP of $49,990. Additional Specs At A Glance 365lb.–ft. of torque 3397 pounds, total 155 mph top speed 24 city mpg 31 highway mpg The Supra and Mount Airy Toyota The 2020 Supra has had car fanatics awaiting its return for many years, and 2019 has unveiled the iconic sports car once and for all. With the incoming influx of driving impressions and personal reviews, it will be exciting to see how this light, agile, fun, and overall reasonable sports car will deliver to consumers. Mount Airy Toyota is excited to recommend the Supra to any eager sports car fan, and with the starting price at less than $50,000, you’re definitely getting the bang for your buck!

They Will Look Great On That New Highlander! The topography in Mount Airy, NC is roughed and the roads are curvy. And when those roads become slick with rain or covered in snow you need a dependable set of tires. If you buy now you will be just in time for the big rain months in the area. Fortunately, this is the BIG TIRE SALE month for both Mount Airy Toyota and Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. This spring it is time to clean, both for you and Mount Airy Toyota! Mount Airy Toyota is doing some spring cleaning through deals and special all through the month of April. Toyota tires will be the prime focus for service items and vehicle like the Toyota Highlander will be promoted with deals. There are some really great looking tires to choose from. And they are priced to meet everyone’s price point. Let’s Talk Tires Sale Event Mount Airy Toyota is hosting the April tire sale with everything from dollar tires to a hundred-dollar rebate! Tires are on special with the option to buy a full new set of tires for nothing shy of a steal. When a Toyota customer buys three tires they will get the fourth tire for just a single dollar. This month customers will also have the opportunity to get 100 dollars back with a rebate when purchasing four qualifying tires. Choosing tires to fit your vehicle and your style is sometimes a hard decision. We have tire specialist available every day to help you sort through the pros and cons of each product. From small sport vehicles that need tires made for speed and tight turns to pickup trucks that need tires strictly for durability, the service staff at Mount Airy Toyota can help. When choosing tires, it is important to consider: The Type of Vehicle You Drive. The Terrain You Drive On How Many Miles You Drive The Weather Conditions Where You Live Just come to the Toyota Dealership in Mount Airy, North Carolina and a factory-trained Certified Toyota Technician will install some new wheels for you! New wheels play such a big role in a vehicle. From the safety that wheels with standard traction hold to the style and feel of the ride that has new wheels. The Toyota Highlander The 2017 Toyota Highlander is the vehicle of the month for Mount Airy Toyota! It’s the perfect SUV for spring cookouts and days at the lake! Exterior The 2017 Highland has an exterior design that is eye-catching! Unique Front Grille The new front side of the vehicle gives the Highlander a complete new look. The 2017 upgraded Highlander features the all new and refreshed front grille. The unique front grille is tailored to each grate to give a bold and personal design. Redeveloped Lights In the 2017 redesigned vehicle the headlights and taillights have had a makeover. The new design has Daytime Running Lights to give the design an even bolder appearance. The lights have an exciting dark-black-accent around the headlights or smoked-chrome headlights. The Highlander has a better rear visibility with the all-new LED taillights. Alloy Wheels The alloy wheel on the 2017 Highlander show off the vehicles look. The wheels are a bold 19-inch alloy wheel. Paired with quality tires this SUV makes for an eye-appealing ride that is just as nice to drive. Interior The interior of the Highlander is versatile and comfortable with its ability to change quickly. In seconds the vehicle can transform from the travel car packed with luggage to the vehicle packed with kids or even the vehicle packed adults for a night on the town. The vehicle is updated with key features for comfort and entertainment with: USB Ports Seating for Up to Eight People Cargo Space Quiet Interior Panoramic Moonroof Rear-Seat Entertainment USB ports are a must in a family vehicle from kids plugging in their devices to the parents charging phones or plugging in navigation systems. The Highlander is ready for it all with a total of five USB ports. This vehicle is equipped with a roomy interior for up to eight people or a larger cargo space to pack for vacations. The vehicle even has reclining third-row seats to keep your passengers happy. The vehicle is ready to accommodate for people, storage, or a mix of both with the ability to fold down seats in a 60/40 split. The Capability Performance is everything and new tires can make all the difference. With quality tires the ride and handling of a vehicle can transform from good to great. The Highlander is ready to go with: A 3.5- liter V6 Engine Great Gas Millage Stop and Start Engine System Available Dynamic Torque-Control All-Wheel Drive Towing Capacity of 5000-lb. The 3.5- liter V6 engine is all-new and helps give the Highland a new vibe of power and efficiency. The engine uses a direct shift eight-speed Automatic Transmission. This works well for quick acceleration and gives the vehicle great gas mileage when traveling on the highway. The vehicle gets about twenty-seven miles per gallon on the highway. Safety In a vehicle made for many passengers, safety is vital to keep everyone protected. The engineers that designed the 2017 Toyota Highlander had safety in mind when they created features to ensure your confidence. The 2017 Toyota Highlander has: Star Safety System Advanced Airbag System Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children Tire Pressure Monitor System These features are essential if your vehicle will be transporting a crowd. Come to Mount Airy Toyota to check out the April tire specials! Right now, you can buy three tires and get the fourth tire for only a single dollar! Also, take a test drive in a 2017 Toyota Highlander! For more information call [di_dealer_option phone_sales=“”]. Visit Mount Airy Toyota! [di_dealer_option street_address=“”], [di_dealer_option city=“”], [di_dealer_option state=“”] By: Grayson Collins CCP Web Design