4 Tips to Keeping a Cool Car - Uftring Auto Group

Ah, Summer. Trips to the lake, cookouts at the pool, baseball games and ice cream runs. There's nothing quite like it! Although it's fun to see your kids pile in the car, you sometimes wish you wouldn't have to. Peoria area summers can be brutal. Parking your car just about anywhere means that things are going to get hot. Since we know cars at the Uftring Auto Group, we want to give you some tips on keeping them cool!

1. Use a Sunshade and Dash Cover When Your Car is Parked

See if you can recall this scenario. You take your kids/friends to the pool, spend 4 hours there, and have a blast taking a dip and soaking up sun. Then, you get in your car. HOT. HOT. HOT! All the time you've been at the pool, your windshield has acted as a giant magnifying glass. Everything you touch in the car is going to be hot. 

Here's a tip! Buy a sunshade. They're very affordable, and they prevent your car from heating up to the temperature of a burning skillet. You can also cover your dashboard, seats, and even your seat belts to prevent yourself from getting hurt by the heat. Believe it or not, it happens.

2. Find a Spot in the Shade to Park 

No matter where you go, you can almost always find shade to park in. Whether it's a garage, a tree, or an awning, there's always some around. Next time you and the family take a trip, make sure you park smart. Find a nice shady spot so your car doesn't get hot. Will you have to walk a little further to get where you're going? It's possible, but it's also worth it. What's worse? Walking three extra blocks or feeling too hot for comfort. I think you know the answer!

3. Cover your Steering Wheel When Not Using your Car 

Something that always seems to take us by surprise is how hot our steering wheel can get. And it's the part of the car we touch the most! Have you ever sat in your parking spot with the A/C running, touching the steering wheel as though you're checking if it's done cooking? It's not a baked potato! 

Simply cover your steering wheel with a bath towel while you aren't using your car. This will allow you to be able to grip the wheel when getting back in your car. Think about it. If you try to drive while barely holding the wheel, you are a danger to everyone around you. Be smart. All you need is a towel!

4. Keep Your Windows Slightly Opened

Does the heat of your car ever take your breath away? Well, what do you expect? You're basically sitting in an oven with no air circulation! When you go somewhere in public, crack your windows ever so slightly to let some air through. By cracking them just an inch or so, you're allowing air to get in so your car won't be as hot and muggy when you return. 

CAUTION: Make sure you look at the weather forecast before doing this. That last thing you want is to turn your carpool into an actual one!

We hope these tips help you keep a cool car this summer! Remember to throw away food, store valuables, and keep an emergency kit available at all times. The heat can be dangerous, so always plan ahead. And if you're looking to get a new, cool car (a different kind of cool), stop by one of our Uftring Auto Group locations! We'd love to give you more tips as well as help you find your dream vehicle. Enjoy your summer, and stay cool! 

3 Great Spots in Peoria to Cruise Around with Your Top Down - Uftring Auto Blog

Ahh, Summer. The days are longer, warmer, and more enjoyable. From riverfront concerts to outdoor leagues and races, there really is no better season! And who doesn't love to ride around with the windows (or top, if you're rolling in a convertible) down? Here are three amazing places around the Peoria area where having the wind in your hair is a necessity.

1. Prospect & Grandview Drive

Overlooking the historic Illinois River is a stretch of road lined with houses with the most stunning of views you'll ever see. So stunning, in fact, that this stretch of road was called the "World's Most Beautiful Drive" by our 26th President, Teddy Roosevelt. Off of Knoxville Road by Junction City Plaza sits Prospect Rd. This street leads you down a windy road of head-turning views and beautiful homes. Just when the stretch of uniquely constructed houses ends, a quick turn left will change your perspective forever. Grandview Drive is the name of this turn... and you'll want to make it. While on the right you see more glamorous structures of brick, stone and wood, on the left are the most breathtaking views you'll ever gaze upon. We could explain these views all day, but they're something you'll want to see for yourself.

2. High View Road

On the East Peoria side of the Illinois River is an inclined bridge that seems as though it's floating over the highway. That bridge leads up to High View Road. This stretch of land, much like Grandview, has a rich history as well. Not only does it hold even more elegant homes and landscaping, but it looks over the famous Peoria skyline. So, whether you're on a Sunday stroll or out Saturday for supper, take a trip up to High View Road and bask in the beauty this wonderful city has to offer. 

3. Trigger Road 

For those of you looking to escape the city, we know the perfect place. Trigger Road, which runs along the Northeast corner between Peoria and Dunlap, is a refreshing two-lane road that gives you views of farmland, dive bars and a minimal amount of structured real estate. The seldom bursts of traffic allow you to cruise right along while you enjoy your company, the fresh air or a moment of simplicity. So roll down your windows and take in the ride! 

Now that you know of some spots to ride around in, go take a drive! And if you're looking for a new car, truck or SUV, stop by any of the Uftring Auto Group locations or visit uftringautogroup.com. 

Safety First - 4 Tips to Staying Safe Behind the Wheel

Safety First at the Uftring Auto Group

In this day and age, life moves faster and faster. And, so do we. With national speed limits increasing, cell phones becoming more of a priority, and fickle road conditions, the importance of safety has become all the more prevalent. Here are 4 tips to staying safe behind the wheel. 

#1 - Turn Off/Put Away Your Cell Phone

Why is this the #1 tip on the list? Because it's hands down most important. According to the National Safety Council, cell phone use while driving leads to 1.6 million car accidents a year. Think about what you do on your cell phone on a day-to-day basis. Is it really more important than getting to your destination safely? Probably not. And if you drive for work, simply link up your phone to hands-free bluetooth. By taking away today's biggest distraction when you're behind the wheel, you are making the roads safer for you and everyone around you.

#2 - Always Wear Your Seat Belt

Whether you're driving two miles or two states over, you should ALWAYS wear your seat belt. Nearly 50% of injuries or deaths caused by motor vehicle accidents could be avoided by simply strapping yourself in. You never know what's going to happen on the road. Make it a habit before you even start your car to put your seat belt on. 

#3 - Don't Speed 

Have you ever passed someone on a city street and then ended up next to them just two intersections ahead? How silly did you feel? Speeding really gets you nowhere. You run the risk of getting a ticket, losing your license, and even getting into a fatal car accident. The faster you move, the harder the hit. Remember that! Speeding is like fighting: it has never solved anything. Make sure you follow the speed limit, pass when you have to, and continue at a safe pace. 

#4 - Focus on the Road and the Road Only

There are many distractions in our everyday lives that we don't even realize stop us in our tracks. Whether it's your breakfast on the go, your lipstick that needs applied, or that one email you need to send on the way to work, it can wait! FOCUS on getting to where you're going. If you look down for even a second, you are putting everyone around you at risk, including yourself. Now, if you have a passenger with you, it's fine to carry on a conversation. Just make sure you know what's most important at that time.  

When you're behind the wheel, safety is the #1 priority! Remember to always use caution, be mindful of your surroundings, and to not get distracted. For more information, or to schedule service or shop, visit our website at www.uftringautogroup.com, or stop by one of our eight locations. Stay safe out there! 

Uftring Ford Inventory - More Ford Vehicles to Choose From

From F-Series to Cars and SUVs

At Uftring Ford in East Peoria, we have over 300 new vehicles in stock. Why would we carry such a large inventory? To provide as many options as possible for our customers, of course! Not only do we have the models that you're looking for, but we have a wide variety of different colors, trim levels, and interior choices. Looking for a car for the family? Our Ford SUV selection is unmatched in the area! Need a new truck to get the job done? Over half of our inventory is F-Series models. You'll love what you can find at Uftring Ford.

Ford Trucks Get the Job Done

Over half of our Ford inventory includes F-Series trucks. From F-150s to F-450s, we have the range of power you're looking for to get the job done right. Whether you need a long bed, short bed, extended cab or standard, we have the choices to help you decide. Remember, every month is truck month at Uftring Ford in East Peoria! If you're hauling houses or trailers across town, our Super Duty selection will help you. If you're making the switch from car to truck, you can take a look at our Sport F-150s. The fact is, we provide options for you - whatever you may need.

Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff

We at Uftring Ford provide you with the knowledge and care you deserve when making such an important purchase. So, to go along with our vast selection of Ford cars and trucks, we have a skilled staff of sales and service representatives. Whether you're in need of an upgrade or a check-up, we are here with a helping hand and a smile, every time. We encourage you to ask any questions about our selection or about your vehicle. We will always be transparent, respectful and accommodating when you visit us. Not only that, but once (and even before) you shop with Uftring, you're considered a friend.

So, stop into Uftring Ford in East Peoria today! Click here to view our inventory, or give us a call at (309) 694-0700. 

Uftring Auto Group - Your Peoria Area Body Shop Stop

From Small Dings to Big Dents

If you need body work done, don't trust just anyone with your vehicle. Trust the Uftring Auto Group! Our factory trained technicians are certified to handle any kind of task. There is no job that is too big or too small for us to handle. From dents and scratches to paint jobs and replacements, we have you covered!

What About the Big Jobs?

Depending on how big of a job your vehicle requires, it's possible we may need to keep your vehicle overnight or even for a couple of days. But, don't worry. We offer free loaner vehicles available by appointment to those who need them. And, not only that, but we offer free estimates also. There's no reason you should have to pay to know what you'll pay. We won't do that to you here. At the Uftring Auto Group, we treat our customers like we would a friend. 100% honesty, 100% of the time.

Quality Work

Like we always say, there is no job too big or small for us at the Uftring Auto Group. All of our repairs are guaranteed for the life of the vehicle. We also use environmentally friendly water-based paints. We will even do aluminum repairs. You'll find with us that we're willing to go the extra mile because we're not your regular body shop. We go above and beyond for our customers. We guarantee quality every time you come in!

Three Different Locations

Whether you're in Peoria, East Peoria, or Washington, there's an Uftring Body Shop right in your backyard! If you were recently in a fender bended caused by the winter ice, or you've been meaning to get a couple scratches buffed out and painted, we're just a short drive away. Stop in and see us at any of our three locations! 

Click below to learn more:

Uftring Weston Chevrolet Cadillac Body Shop in Peoria

Uftring Automall Body Shop in East Peoria

Uftring Chevy Body Shop in Washington