Who says Toyotas are so great?

In its latest challenge to consumer confidence, Toyota has already recalled another 533,000 vehicles in 2007. At this rate, Toyota will once again recall more vehicles in a year than it builds. That would make three years in a row!

In related news, the Chevy Impala has now beaten the Toyota Camry in J.D. Powers and Associates studies in initial quality, for five years straight! And BOTH the Ford Fusion and the Mercury Milan scored higher than the Camry this year according to Consumer Reports!

The Braeger Experts

When the Journal Sentinel needs to find a car expert in Milwaukee, who do they turn to?

That's right, Ben Kallies, service manager of Braeger Chrysler/Jeep.

This Sunday, Ben was quoted extensively in the Wheels section of the Journal Sentinel in an article on Winter Tires. (On the road again! Written off back in the 1980s, snow tires are making a comeback thanks to new technology, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Jan 27th, 2007)

"Snow tires do make a difference," [Ben] says. "Even for front-wheel drive cars and those with stability control."

What about all-wheel drive? Winter tires, Kallies believes, multiply the all-wheel drive advantages in braking, acceleration and handling.

He has high praise for the new breed of winter tire. "New technology" has made huge strides, he declares.

"They don't even look like snow tires," Kallies says. "They're actually a nice-looking tire. And they're not as noisy as the old snow tires."
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"Many drivers have them [winter tires] mounted on less expensive steel rims, instead of choosing the costs and time involved in mounting and rebalancing them (on their factory-provided rims) every winter," Kallies says.
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He also suggests: "See an authorized tire dealer, like us, because of things such as wheel speed sensors, ABS (antilock braking system) and electronic traction control that might be involved." Tire know-how is essential.

That's great advice Ben!