Kerry duo win opening National Rally event

The opening round of the Dunlop National Rally Championship was won by the Kerry crew of Thomas Fitzmaurice/Fionn Foley in a Subaru WRC.

In an absorbing tussle through all nine stages of the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel Rally, they finished 17 seconds ahead of the Cork/Mayo combination of Brian O'Mahony/John Higgins, also in a Subaru WRC.

Monaghan's, Niall Maguire/Enda Sherry (Subaru WRC) were third - 44 seconds further adrift.

The Group N category was won by Robert Barrable/Dermot O'Gorman (Skoda Fabia S2000) and Frank Kelly/Liam Brennan (Ford Escort) took victory in the Modified section.

Fitzmaurice (Subaru WRC) made a great start and punched in the best time on the opening stage, three seconds ahead of both Brian O'Mahony (Subaru WRC) and Niall Maguire (Subaru WRC), who tied for second.

Robert Barrable (Skoda Fabia S2000) was fourth - eight seconds further behind and two ahead of the MG S2000 of Roy White. Colm Murphy (Subaru) held sixth overall.

Late entry, Garry Jennings lost front brakes and then stalled the ex-Donnelly Toyota Corolla WRC and became the first major retirement when it wouldn't re-start.

Fitzmaurice also set the pace on the second stage while O'Mahony dominated the time sheets on the final stage of the loop.

At the Rathdowney service halt, Fitzmaurice held a seven second advantage, like all the other drivers he remarked on the extremely slippery nature of the stages.

A spin on the third stage illustrated the slippery conditions. O'Mahony took sole occupancy of second place with Barrable moving into third-nine seconds further behind.

Maguire stalled his Subaru on the final junction of the third stage, nevertheless, he held fourth, a mere second behind Barrable. Murphy slotted into fifth from the Mitsubishi of Sam Moffett, who was 27 seconds behind the Limerick driver.

Top seed, Kevin Barrett struggled in the conditions, a hard slick was certainly not the correct tyre choice.

Frank Kelly, who led the Mk. Escort brigade despite an overshoot and a full 360 degree spin on the third stage, was eighth overall. The Group N cars of Josh Moffett and Shane Maguire completed the top ten.

Meanwhile, Roy White crashed his MG S2000 out of the rally on the second test, a stage later, overseas driver, Steve Simpson, who had an altercation on the opening stage, went off the road and out of the rally.

The battle between Fitzmaurice and O'Mahony was intense over the second loop.

The Kerry driver increased his lead to eight seconds after Stage four even though he had a major moment. O'Mahony was quickest through the remaining two stages to trim the deficit to five seconds.

Maguire lost time with a puncture on the fifth stage but remained in third, albeit 27 seconds behind O'Mahony. Barrable retained fourth from Colm Murphy, who was probably the only driver looking for wet conditions.

Barrett was pleased with his performance through the second loop, he was sixth.

Sam Moffett was another driver happy with his performance, he admitted to being off the pace on the opening loop.

Meanwhile, Kelly continued to set a cracking pace in the Modified category as he held a 31 second lead over Mike Quinn.

The final place in the top ten was annexed by Josh Moffett (Mitsubishi). Declan Boyle (Escort) and Jonathan Pringle were just outside the top ten, the latter, seeded at 44 was worried about his Escort's head gasket.

On Stage 7, Fitzmaurice and O'Mahony shared the same time but the Cork driver lost around eight seconds when his Subaru drifted against a bank as he exited an intricate junction.

Remarkably, the top three set identical time on the penultimate stage leaving Fitzmaurice with a five second advantage entering the final stage.

In a thrilling finish, tyre choice proved crucial as Fitzmaurice took victory by a margin of 17 seconds.

The 38-year-old, who netted his first win said, "I enjoyed the first loop, then I had a big moment on the fourth stage. I really nailed it on the last stage, I gambled on tyres and it paid off.

"This win didn't come easy, Brian (O'Mahony) really pushed me to the limit, I was race fit from Galway."

Obviously disappointed, O'Mahony was still delighted to have got 18 Dunlop championship points. "I drove hard on S.S. 7 but then the tyres went off on the final stages, especially on the final stage."

Former triple champion, Niall Maguire was third and Barrable, who admitted the fast stages didn't suit his Skoda S200, was fourth. Colm Murphy (Subaru) finished fifth.

Meanwhile, Kevin Barrett took the Dunlop 'Drive of the Day' award, he made the most improvement on his opening stage loop times.

Driving a 2.5 Vauxhall engine Escort, Frank Kelly dominated the Modified section. The top ten was completed by Sam Moffett (Mitsubishi) and the Escorts of Declan Boyle and Mike Quinn.

Kerry's, PJ O'Dowd/John Young (Sunbeam) won the Historic category and victory in the Junior section went to Richard Moore/Richard Cleary (Honda Civic).

 

Courtesy of RTE Sport

One-of-a-kind: 2003 Subaru Baja Crew Cab Sport Truck Crew Cab

See the full gallery on Posterous

Internet Price

$9,955

Engine

2.5L H-4 cyl

Ext. Color

Steel Silver

Mileage

104,072

Stock Number

37114644

Vin

4S4BT62C737114644

Come to the experts! AWD! If you've been aching for just the right 2003 Subaru Baja, then stop your search right here. This is the ideal truck that is sure to fit your needs. It is nicely equipped with features such as 4 Speakers, 4-Wheel Disc Brakes, ABS brakes, Air conditioning, Alloy wheels, AM/FM radio, AM/FM Stereo w/Single CD/4 Speakers, CD player, Driver door bin, Driver vanity mirror, Dual front impact airbags, Four wheel independent suspension, Front anti-roll bar, Front Bucket Seats, Front Center Armrest, Front Cupholders, Front fog lights, Front reading lights, Heated door mirrors, Illuminated entry, Moquette Cloth Seat Trim, Outside temperature display, Overhead console, Panic alarm, Passenger door bin, Passenger vanity mirror, Power door mirrors, Power driver seat, Power moonroof, Power steering, Power windows, Rear anti-roll bar, Rear step bumper, Rear window defroster, Remote keyless entry, Roof rack, Speed control, Speed-sensing steering, Tachometer, Tilt steering wheel, and Variably intermittent wipers. The quality of this outstanding Baja is sure to make it a favorite among our educated buyers. J.D. Power and Associates gave the 2003 Baja 4 out of 5 Power Circles for Overall Dependability. SALES AND SERVICE OPEN 7 DAYS! Great financing

Click here to view full listing!

The Apple and the Tree

This Day in History: February 22nd, 1959 - Lee Petty wins first Daytona 500

On this day in 1959, Lee Petty defeats Johnny Beauchamp in a photo finish at the just-opened Daytona International Speedway in Florida to win the first-ever Daytona 500. The race was so close that Beauchamp was initially named the winner by William France, the owner of the track and head of the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). However, Petty, who was driving a hardtop Oldsmobile 88, challenged the results and three days later, with the assistance of news photographs, he was officially named the champ. There was speculation that France declared Beauchamp the winner in order to intentionally stir up controversy and generate publicity for his new race track.

Today, the 200-lap, 500-mile Daytona 500 is one of auto racing's premiere events and the first race of the NASCAR season. France, a gas station owner and racing promoter, officially co-founded NASCAR in Daytona Beach in 1948. The following year, Lee Petty, a mechanic from North Carolina, began his racing career at the age of 35. He went on to win more than 50 races on NASCAR's Grand National circuit (subsequently known as the Winston Cup from 1971 to 2003, the NEXTEL Cup from 2004 to 2007 and the Sprint Cup from 2008 onward) and three championships before being seriously injured in a crash during a qualifying event at Daytona in 1961. Following the crash, Petty drove in a handful of races before retiring from competition in 1964. He went on to found Petty Enterprises, which became NASCAR's oldest and most successful racing team. In January 2009, Petty Enterprises merged with Gillett Evernham Motorsports and became Richard Petty Motorsports.

Petty's son, Richard (1937- ) became one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history, winning the Daytona 500 a record seven times between 1964 and 1981. Richard Petty's sixth victory at Daytona, in 1979, also marked the first time the race was shown live, flag-to-flag, on television. Due to a snowstorm on the East Coast, a larger-than-anticipated TV audience tuned in to the race, which included a memorable fistfight between drivers Cale Yarborough and brothers Donnie and Bobby Allison, and the broadcast was a key moment in NASCAR's rise to become one of America's most popular spectator sports.

The Petty racing dynasty also includes Richard's son, Kyle Petty, and Adam Petty, Kyle's son, who died at the age of 19 in a crash at the New Hampshire International Speedway on May 12, 2000. Adam's great-grandfather, Lee Petty, had died less than a month earlier, on April 5, at the age of 86.

Courtesy of History.com

Experience love that lasts. Take a snow day with the the 2012 Subaru Impreza!

Thank you to our happy customer for this fantastic review! We appreciate the kind words.

"Service department: very nice people, took care of the problem for a fair price."

Subaru Celebrates 40th Birthday of its All-Wheel Drive System

Back in 1972 in Japan, Fuji Heavy Industries and its Subaru car brand launched their first passenger vehicle equipped with all-wheel drive. Little did they know that four decades later, the system employed by the Leone Estate Van 4WD would largely define the brand and the majority of its models.

All-wheel drive back then was a rudimentary technology. But even so, it was highly effective in providing much needed traction in a variety of environments and climates. Together with Subaru’s now-iconic flat-type engines, all-wheel drive dramatically improved grip in performance situations as well.

Fast forward 40 years and some 11.8 million (11,782,812 units as of January 31,2012, to be precise) all-wheel drive-equipped Subarus have rolled off its many production lines around the globe. Naturally, the drivetrain has evolved over the years and is now called Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Nearly every vehicle (minus some JDM-spec kei-cars, trucks, and the rear-wheel drive BRZ) employs one of four basic variations of S-AWD. Throughout the decades, we’ve learned to love them all, and for that, we say Happy Birthday to Subaru’s effective all-wheel drive.

Here’s a brief breakdown of Subaru’s most current AWD setups:

-          VTD-AWD or Variable Torque Distribution All-Wheel Drive

• Meant for “sporty” vehicles, this setup utilizes a center differential that’s married to an electronically-controlled hydraulic multi-clutch limited-slip differential. In normal conditions, torque is split 45/55-percent front/rear, but can vary to 50/50.

 

-          Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive

• Meant for models that emphasis fuel economy rather than performance, this front-wheel drive biased setup electronically controls a Multi-Plate Transfer case (MP-T) to vary torque in real time. In normal conditions, torque is split 60/40.

 

-          Viscous Center Differential All-Wheel Drive

• Meant for models equipped with manual gearboxes, the setup employs a torque-sensitive bevel gear-type center differential and viscous limited-slip differential. Normally, torque gets distributed at an even 50/50 split, but can react quickly to changing grip levels and manage slip accordingly.

-          Multi-Mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD)

• Meant for serious performance rides (i.e. STI models), the configuration combines a mechanical torque-sensing mechanical limited-slip differential and an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential. Mixing the two allows for near instantaneous torque and power distribution (thanks to the mechanical LSD) and a wider range of predictable behavior (thanks to the electronic LSD and its pre-programmed Gravel, Tarmac, and Snow modes). Normal driving means torque is distributed at a rear-biased 41/59 level.

 

Subaru will have a celebratory display at next month’s Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland, so stay tuned for more S-AWD goodness.

Source: Subaru

Washington’s Birthday Sales Event!

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The Car Store is celebrating Washington’s birthday now through February 29! With low interest incentives you won’t just save during this event, you will save during the whole life your loan! We have incentives with rates as low as 0.9% on Legacy, Outback, Forester and Tribeca or lease a 2012 Impreza for $169/month on a 42-month lease Even more reason to take advantage of this event: Subaru remains the only manufacturer with IIHS Top Safety Pick winners for all models! Subaru has also been named a 2011-2012 Residual Value Award winner by ALG! Check out all the rewards here! 96% of Subaru vehicles built in the last 10 years are still on the road. Stop in today and take advantage of the amazing values going on now!

Schedule your test drive today at (888) 240-7585.

0.9% Financing Subaru Impreza 0.9% Financing on Legacy, Outback, Forester and Tribeca Lease for  $169 per month Lease a 2012 Impreza for $169/month on a 42-month lease (Standard model, code CJA-01)** Cannot be combined with any other incentive. Financing for well-qualified applicants only. Length of contract is limited. Subject to credit approval, vehicle insurance approval and vehicle availability. No down payment required. See participating dealers for details. Offers expire 2/29/2012. $169 per month for 42 months with $1,969 due at lease signing. $0 security deposit. Tax, title and registration fees extra. Other leases available on other models. Cannot be combined with any other incentives. Offers expire 2/29/2012.

Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 6pm | Saturday and Sunday: 7:30am – 5:30pm

USA Network Expands Digital Coverage of Westminster Dog Show with Real-Time Streaming from the Floor

FOR THE FIRST TIME, USA NETWORK EXPANDS DIGITAL COVERAGE OF WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB WITH REAL-TIME STREAMING
FROM THE FLOOR

Dog Fans All Over the World Can Watch the Show Floor Live and Engage in Social TV Experiences Throughout the Day and During the Evening Telecast with
Subaru of America Sponsoring Exclusive Character Chatter During Best In Show

In a first, USA is giving dog lovers unprecedented digital access to WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW.  The network is taking the most beloved dog show social with live video coverage during the day and social viewing experiences including community chatting, interviews, FB and Twitter integrations and real-time behind the scenes moments from the floor. USA is partnering with UStream for the video coverage, which will be accessible worldwide via online and mobile phones. The show will be telecast on USA Network from Madison Square Garden on Monday, Feb. 13 and Tues., Feb. 14, 2012, starting at 8/7c.

USA will have a combination of fixed and roaming cameras showcasing all the in-the-ring and out-of-the-ring breed action as well as interviews with co-host David Frei and sneak-peeks of the primetime action. Each day starting at 8:30amET, fans can view up to four different channels showing the live judging of all 185 individual breeds directly from the floor.

WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW’s digital hub is found at WestminsterKennelClub.org where fans can access rich, interactive content, including videos, photos, trivia, and polls. Subaru of America is sponsoring a special Character Chatter with expert Chuck Bessant on Tuesday, February 14 at 10pm ET.  Dog lovers will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage with other fans over the two days leading into Tuesday night’s Best In Show judging.

The Madison Square Garden competition will be televised live on USA on Monday, February 13, from 8-9pmET/PT, when it will switch over to CNBC.  Then on Tuesday, February 14, USA will air the entire conclusion from 8-11pm ET/PT, including the crowning of Best In Show.

The WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB is America's oldest organization dedicated to the sport of purebred dogs.  Established in 1877, Westminster's influence has been felt for more than a century through its famous all breed, benched dog show held every year at New York's Madison Square Garden.  The show is America’s second longest continuously held sporting event, behind only the Kentucky Derby. For additional information, log on to www.westminsterkennelclub.org.

Courtesy of TV by the Numbers

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Five Simple Ways to Save Money on Gas

1) Replace the fancy gasoline with low-octane fuel
In filling up your car , make sure to buy the lowest grade of gasoline. However, choose the most appropriate gas for your automobile. Knowing which fuel works best for your car is always located in your owner's manual. Look it up.
Filling up your car with premium gasoline, even if it can be filled with low-octane fuel, is just a waste of money. Besides, not buying the high-octane gasoline won't boost your car's performance, anyway.

2) Remember to tighten the gas cap
Gas naturally evaporates from your car when the gas tank has an escape. According to the statistics, over 145 million gallons of gas evaporate yearly due to missing, damaged and loose gas caps. Why be one of those careless car owners? Tighten those gas caps now.

3) Air conditioning and shade
During summer, the intense sun can evaporate fuel instantly and make the insides of your car burn your skin up. For this reason, parking your car in the shade can be an effective gas-saving routine.
Besides, once you've parked your car in a shady place, using the gas-hogging air conditioning can be counted out. Just remember that air conditioning can drag your car's fuel economy by 10 to 20 percent.

However, when air conditioning is necessary, cool your car down by opening the windows, vents and sunroof. Turning on the air conditioning at full blast once you go into your car will definitely waste your money and gas.

4) Engine Care
A car that is out of tune or failed an emission test can drag your gas mileage down to up to 4 percent. Regular tune-ups as well as spark plug and air filter replacements can provide your car with over 30 percent of fuel efficiency.

5) Fast Cars with good mileage
Buying cars with a good mileage is probably the most important tip in saving money on gas. To know which car provides good gas mileage, check with an unbiased car dealer.

Believe it or not, these five simple routines can stretch up your gas dollar. Try it now and let it become your daily habit.

 

Courtesy of Fast Lanes

The Car Store Newsletter - February Updates

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 February brings many great things to The Car Store. With spring only a month away, we’re gearing up for warmer weather. Lately, we’ve been prepping the bikes for our famous Bike Loaner Program – which is launching again very soon!

The Car Store is also celebrating Washington’s birthday beginning February 10 through February 20! With low interest incentives you won’t just save during this event, you will save during the whole life your loan!

As always, The Car Store is doing great things for the local community and the environment with recent Share The Love Events. Speaking of love, make sure to check out our February Service Specials. They will be sure to give you the warm and fuzzies.

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Subaru remains the only manufacturer with IIHS Top Safety Pick winners for all models!

 

Subaru has also been named a 2011-2012 Residual Value Award winner by ALG! Check out all the rewards here!

96% of Subaru vehicles built in the last 10 years are still on the road. Stop in today and take advantage of the amazing values going on now!

Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Dog Tested. Dog Approved.

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At Subaru, we love dogs as much as you do. Through the ASPCA partnerships, fundraising efforts and adoption drives, we’re helping our canine friends get the much needed attention they deserve. Subaru is even giving them a little time behind the wheel (with their paws positioned at 10 and 2, of course). iphone apps are available to map your pup’s adventures. Join the Facebook fan club and share your stories, or even register to get a bandanna for your pooch to sport on his journey!

Subaru Rally

Subaru Rally Team USA dominated at the 2012 Sno*Drift Rally in Atlanta, Michigan. Driving a 2012 Subaru WRX STI, David Higgins and Craig Drew took the lead early, and never looked back­– winning the event by nearly two minutes. “The completely unpredictable surface conditions and our lack of experience in winter rallying made for a huge challenge,” said Higgins after the race, “but I feel, after this, we proved ourselves in the snow.” This decisive win has given SRT USA the initial points lead in the 2012 Rally America National Championship. The Sno*Drift Rally features nearly 130 miles of snow and ice-covered roads in northern Michigan. Constantly changing weather and road conditions historically make this rally extremely challenging. Made even more treacherous because Rally America rules prohibit the use of spiked or studded ice tires, placing a premium on road traction. Check out videos and get more information here.

Subaru Impreza wins 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car.

February 8, 2012- Chicago, IL--Subaru of America, Inc. was awarded the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for Best Compact Car at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.
The award comes on the heels of strong sales results from Subaru. The brand set a sales record in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% over the previous year.

“It is an honor to receive the award for best compact car from MotorWeek,” Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. “We are very excited about the all-new Impreza and we feel it is a game-changer for Subaru in the compact segment. In fact, Impreza sales in January were up 175-percent. We are pleased to bring our customers a car that packages safety, fun and function.”

All new for 2012, the Subaru Impreza is equipped as standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Powered by a 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or the enhanced, second-generation Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission). The 2012 Impreza offers the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in America, with EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for models with the CVT.

"With its 2012 re-design, we think the Subaru Impreza is primed for prime time," said John Davis, MotorWeek host. "No other compact comes close to the Impreza’s mix of standard all-wheel-drive, upscale interior, and near bargain pricing. Add in a fun-to-drive steering feel, plus a big jump in fuel economy, and you’ve got a four-season winner."

 

Courtesy of Subaru

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Driving in Rain

[[posterous-content:pid___0]]Rainy driving tips - Smart Motorist offers the following suggestions for safer driving in wet weather. In stormy conditions, it is more difficult to see other vehicles, road signs and the road itself. It is critical to make sure you can see and be seen.

• First and foremost: slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather.
• Stay toward the middle lanes - water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
• Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule). This needs to be increased in wet weather.
• Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
• Don't follow large trucks or busses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
• Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
• Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
• Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they'll help other drivers see you. If your car has daytime running lights you still should put them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
• Before it starts to rain, replace old or brittle wipers.
• Avoid off-road driving: it's hard to judge the actual depth of puddles and you can easily become stuck, even in an SUV.
• Never drive beyond the limits of visibility. At night rainy roads become especially treacherous. The glare of oncoming lights, amplified by the rain on your windscreen, can cause temporary loss of visibility while substantially increasing driver fatigue. In rainy conditions pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife are extremely hard to spot and even harder to avoid.
• Never drive through moving water if you can't see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
• When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it's deeper than the bottom of your doors, turn around and find another route. Deep water can cause serious damage to a modern car's electrical system.
• Avoid splashing pedestrians.
• If possible, stay off the road during heavy thunderstorms. Large flashes of lightning can temporarily blind and disorient drivers, and the accompanying high winds and heavy rain can create deadly driving conditions.

Slow down! This should be obvious but it also very important. People are so used to driving certain speeds on certain roads that sometimes they forget the need to slow down when inclement weather presents itself.

Before you go - Wet-weather driving demands gentle use of all the main controls - steering, clutch, brake and accelerator - and a larger allowance for errors and emergencies. When you begin a journey in rain, your shoes will be wet and liable to slip off the pedals. Scuff the soles on the rubber matting or carpeting of the car before you start the engine. All motorists should regularly check that their headlights, tail lights, brake lights and turn signals are working properly.

How are your tires? - Check your tires on a regular basis. Bald tires significantly reduce your traction on wet roadways, and offer little resistance to hydroplaning. When your tires run over water, the water is displaced and it needs somewhere to go quickly. The best place is between the treads of your tires. If your tires are bald, the water has no place to go and you end up riding on a layer of water, like a boat. (See Hydroplaning, below.)

Turn on your wipers - Replace your wipers regularly, at least once a year. Wiper blades in bad condition don't clear water from the windshield very well and distort your view. Older vehicles may need to have the whole wiper arm replaced. The arms bend over time and sometimes can't keep enough downward pressure to clear the windscreen, even with new blades installed. Wipers will often clear light rain from the windscreen with a few sweeps, then run on an almost-dry screen and leave smears of drying dirt. Don't be afraid to use the windscreen washers liberally: the fluid is cheap (99 cents a gallon) and the safety benefit is high. Carry extra during the winter.

Don't follow large trucks or busses closely. Splash and spray from these vehicles can obscure your vision, creating a potentially disastrous driving situation. Keep your distance, and your windshield wipers on, when other traffic is in front of you.

Turn on your lights - Whenever visibility is poor or it rains, headlights are a good way to let other drivers know where you are. It's both helpful to other travelers and makes you more safe. Remember, you are not the only one affected by poor visibility. You may be able to see cars without their headlights on but others may not have vision or windshield wipers as good as yours. Many states require headlights to be turned on when it is raining or when visibility is reduced to less than 500 feet.

Heavy rain - Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades, allowing an almost continuous sheet of water to flow over the screen. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas. If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes, seldom more than a few minutes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers.

Foggy windows - Rain or high humidity can quickly cause windows to mist up inside the car. In a car equipped with air conditioning, turn up the heat and direct the airflow to your defrosters with the AC switch engaged. (Many cars automatically engage the AC when switched to the defrost mode.) In a car without AC the procedure is the same, but you may need to open your side windows to get the air moving. Most modern cars have a built-in rear window defroster that easily clears a misted rear windscreen by heating up electrodes embedded in the glass. If you don't have one, put your defroster on high and its hot air will eventually follow the inside of the roof down to the rear window. If the car has swiveling dashboard vents, adjust them so that the air flow strikes the upper edge of the side windows. The airflow will clear the side windows first, finally traveling to the rear of the car. If all else fails, a rag or article of clothing will work as well; you'll just need to clear the window more often. Drivers should regularly clean their windshield and windows, both on the inside and outside, to help them see in good and bad weather. Smokers need to take extra care to make sure their interior windows are clear of a buildup of smoke residue.

Handling a skid - Losing control of your car on wet pavement is a frightening experience. You can prevent skids by driving slowly and carefully, especially on curves. Brake before entering the curves. Steer and brake with a light touch. If you find yourself in a skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. This procedure, known as "steering into the skid," will bring the back end of your car in line with the front. For cars without anti-lock brakes, avoid using your brakes. If your car has ABS, brake firmly as you "steer into the skid."

Expressway driving - Leave lots of space between you and the car in front because it takes longer to stop. You're supposed to leave a few seconds between cars in dry weather. Make sure you add space in wet weather because if you have to hit the brakes hard, your tires will lock up, you will hydroplane and you will most likely hit the car in front of you. If available, drive in the fast lane, where there are fewer cars and less oil deposited on the road. Also, because of the built-in slope of the road, water drains towards the slower lanes. Avoid lane changes, as water tends to build up between the tire ruts in the lanes.

Oily deposits - Watch for intersections because of the oil spots in the road. Rain is most dangerous when it falls after a long, dry spell on to roads that have become polished and smooth: the rain blends with oil and rubber-dust deposits on the road surface to form a highly dangerous skid mixture. That mixture builds up at intersections, where cars stop and start frequently. Be extra careful immediately after it starts raining because it takes a while for the worst of the dirt and oil to get washed off the road.

Driving Through Water - Where water has flooded onto the road, drive very slowly and cautiously. Never drive through moving water if you can't see the ground through it: you and your car could be swept off the road, possibly finishing you both. Stop the car before entering the flooded area and check the water level ahead. Generally, if the water is deeper than the bottom of your doors or the bottom third of your wheels, it is inadvisable to attempt driving through it. Seek a detour rather than braving the flood and risking damage to your electronic control systems. Attempting to go through deep water can ruin any of these systems, creating a repair bill in the thousands of dollars.

At night it's much harder to see water hazards. You'll need good road observational skills to notice the difference between a wet road surface and flood water. Watch the contours not only of the road but also of fences, trees, hedges and buildings at the side of the road ahead. If they appear to be unnaturally low, slow down at once as the road is probably flooded. If you don't slow down and hit flood water at speed, the effect is almost like hitting a wall: you will first lose control, then come to a violent stop, possibly injuring your passengers as well. Watch out for places where floodwater collects, particularly low-lying roads adjacent to streams, and dips under rail or highway bridges.

If you determine it's safe to go on, proceed slowly and avoid making large waves in the water. If you have a manual transmission, engage first gear and keep the engine running fast by releasing the clutch just enough to partially engage gear and giving more acceleration than usual. This keeps the exhaust gases moving, helping to prevent water from entering your tailpipe. Vehicles with automatic transmissions should place the car in first gear and feather your brake, slowing the vehicle while at the same time keeping your revs up. Doing this for longer than a few seconds can seriously damage your vehicle and is not recommended. If you're submerged too deeply, your engine will stall and water might enter your engine through your air intake, causing a condition known engine hydro-lock, forcing you to replace it.

What to do if you stall in deep water - If possible, have someone pull your vehicle out using a tow rope or cable winch. It may be possible to drive a manual transmission car out using the starter motor. You can make the job easier by removing your spark-plugs, thereby lowering your compression and making your starter turn more easily. Take great care not to let water enter the cylinders, as it will hydro-lock your engine, ruining it. This is a last resort for rescuing a flooded vehicle and is not recommended.

Check your brakes - If you successfully pass through a deep water hazard, test your brakes. They may be saturated, and only driving very slowly and braking lightly at the same time will generate enough heat to dry them out. Be sure they are pulling evenly on all wheels before building up speed again.

Courtesy of SmartMotorist.com

Thank you for the kind words! We love hearing from our valued customers.

"Great service department!!! Staff was professional, helpful and had me in and out of there quickly. I will definitely continue to have my car serviced here. I highly recommend this dealer." - Kay

"I just bought a 2012 Impreza Sport.  I got a very fair trade-in for my '09 Outback so I could order this gas efficient car and still keep the same (actually less) car payment.   Jim Rugg, my salesman is the best.  He goes to the mat for his clients!  This is my 3rd Subaru and I have always used the Service Dept.  They do a great job." - Bobbi

Review: 2012 Subaru Impreza Sport

The mild winter the Northeast is experiencing this year has been wreaking havoc on the natural order of things.

Flowers are blooming, hibernating bears are stirring and the mosquito population is expected to go through the roof come spring.

Perhaps worst of all, Subaru owners are forced to drive on blacktop, in traffic, instead of the snow-covered roads they usually have to themselves.

Oh the humanity!

I was lucky, then, that my test drive of the 2012 Subaru Impreza dovetailed with the only snowstorm to hit New York this year, even if it only lasted a day.

The redesigned Impreza marks an evolutionary step in the compact’s development. Standing on the same footprint as the vehicle it replaces, it somehow manages to provide more passenger and cargo room despite having a one-inch lower roofline.

Available as a sedan or hatchback/wagon, the exterior retains its familiar form but adds chunkier bodywork that gives it more of a family resemblance to its big sister, the Legacy. Most important, you can still get it with contrast-color fenders.

The interior breaks no new ground, but is a vast improvement over its predecessor’s, with soft-touch plastics and higher quality upholstery throughout. Its simple, easy to use layout is almost quaint compared to some of the baroque designs popping up in compacts today, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s only let down by a couple of cheap switches and a stereo system that looks and sounds a several generations out of date.

The doors are larger, the roof pillars thinner and the base of the windshield further away from the driver, all enhancing the airy feel provided by the out-of-vogue tall windows that prove their worth from the driver’s seat. If there’s one car that doesn’t need a blind spot warning system, this is it.

The biggest change for 2012 is the all-new engine for the Impreza’s all-wheel-drive system. Don’t get your thermals in a bunch, it’s still a flat-4-cylinder, just smaller than last year’s and less powerful. Sound’s great, right?

Well, the payoff is a dramatic increase in fuel economy, long the Impreza’s Achilles Heel. When equipped with a CVT automatic, the 148 hp 2.0-liter is good for 36 mpg highway, 27 mpg city. The latter was the best the old car could do on the highway. Do the math, professor (this is a Subaru, after all) that’s a 33 percent jump in efficiency, and it’s not a hybrid…yet. In any event, the Impreza is currently the most-fuel efficient all-wheel-drive vehicle sold in America.

Starting price is $18,280 for the base sedan and $23,380 for the well-equipped top of the line Sport Limited 5-door tested here, but it doesn’t really matter. Aside from the Suzuki Kisashi, there are no other affordable all-wheel-drive compact cars on the market and, as good as the Suzi is, there is surely not enough cross-shopping going on between the two that the folks at Subaru are losing any sleep over it. The five-door is in a class by itself.

Getting in, the first thing you notice is how low the Impreza is, putting it in sharp contrast to the small crossovers it competes against, including Subaru’s own Forester. The door is also light, as is the tailgate, each an example of the weight loss program the car was put on, now tipping the scales 100 pounds less than the previous edition.

Start it up, and you are greeted with the familiar, industrial whirr of the boxer engine. The relative lack of sound deadening material indicates that Subaru’s engineers are proud of their unique little motor. With the CVT, the effect is enhanced under acceleration.

But even if you don’t revel in the noise, the engine is smooth as the silk it sounds like it’s sewing all the way to redline. Unfortunately, you’ll go there often because this is still not a quick car. Merging into fast-moving traffic requires much deliberation.

Less thought is needed to enjoy the Impreza’s other dynamic attributes. The suspension handles potholes as well as smooth pavement, and the electrically-assisted steering has the kind of feel that makes you think those engineers put a little effort into making it interesting for you.

The Impreza may not be the plushest ride on the block, but it definitely falls into the “driver’s car” category, which is refreshing. While the all-wheel-drive system holds its greatest appeal for poor weather conditions and the dirt access roads to your favorite outdoor concert venue, its other benefits can be discovered by putting the throttle pedal very close to the carpet.

Nevertheless, at the sight of the first flakes I was off to the garage like a kid racing for his Flexible Flyer. The opportunity to experience the Impreza in its natural environment being too good to pass up, despite the alternative being a long winter’s nap.

Unflappable isn’t a word I use often to describe cars – mostly because I’m still not sure what it means – but the Impreza was exactly that. Even with all-season tires it negotiated mushy off ramps and roundabouts the way Demosthenes could handle a room full of Corinthians (professors, are you still out there?)

Try to push it too hard and a team of supernannies goes to work actuating the brakes to keep you from unintentionally venturing off road, despite your best efforts. As fine as the Impreza is in the dry, it’s truly in its element when there’s snow on the ground.

On my way home I was presented with one last gift from Mother Nature: a pristine white parking lot.

I immediately went about drifting circle after circle around a minivan inexplicably parked in the middle of it with someone dozing in the driver’s seat and no tire tracks leading to the car. At least I think he was dozing. I probably should’ve checked, but time flies when you’re having fun. In any event, the Impreza went about this minor hooliganism with Boitano-esque skill.

Granted, we only got about four inches that day, and the ground clearance of the Impreza is 5.7 inches. As a crossover alternative, it does have its limits.

Of course, this one of the reasons you choose it over one of them and perhaps the one reason you wouldn’t. But here, too, whoever is responsible for the unseasonable niceness of late may have had Subaru it its best interests.

While the current Impreza has been more than up to the task this season, a jacked-up version of it in the spirit of the currently extinct Impreza Outback called the XV Crosstrek will be arriving just in time for next winter, restoring the natural order to its proper balance.

Assuming the snow comes with it.

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2012 Subaru Impreza Sport Limited 5-Door

Base Price: $23,380

As Tested: $24,345

Type: 5-passenger, 5-door hatchback

Engine: 2.0L flat-4-cylinder

Power: 148 hp, 145 lb-ft torque

Transmission: CVT automatic

MPG: 27 city, 36 hwy

Courtesy of Fox News

We appreciate the kind words from these two customers! Thank you both!

"I drove all the way from NY to get my new Subaru from The Care Store. The salesmen was VERY helpful in finding me find the right Subaru for my family I. They made it a piece of cake to buy a car from them. My next Subaru is coming from The Car Store. thanks Shawn & friends." - Cheryl

"I did my research online for outbacks.Then went to The car store, picked one out. Told them I didn't want to do the back and forth thing. I know what I want to pay for the car. They did exactly what I wanted first try. And I drove out with my new outback. Very easy process!!!" - Seymour

Meet the new stars of our Dog Tested commercials

Name: Kasey

Kasey is a 7-year-old Collie mix. He was rescued from an animal shelter in Las Vegas, Nevada. With a strong personality and a commanding bark, he's the leader of the pack. Reward him with a bite of boneless BBQ chicken and he'll be loyal to you for life. In his spare time, Kasey loves to chase squirrels with his best friend, a Chihuahua.

Name: Daisy

Meet our gentle giant, Daisy. She's an 8-year-old Great Dane. Despite weighing in at well over 100 pounds, she moves with grace and elegance. Daisy is so relaxed she even sleeps on her back like her human owner. She can wave, cover her eyes and jump. Her favorite food is filet mignon and her favorite pastime is chasing a tennis ball.

Name: Paris

Poodles are regarded as the second most intelligent dog breed on the planet, and Paris is not going to let you forget that. She can speak on command, sit, wave, and do a backflip. When she's not showing off, Paris likes to play with her favorite toy, a stuffed pig. Her dinner of choice is boneless, cooked chicken. She prefers to sleep at the head of the bed on a pillow.

Name: Penny

Penny was named for the cute copper circle of fur on top of her head. She's an athletic bulldog who can skateboard, surf, snow ski and catch a Frisbee. Her best friend is a street-wise rescue Terrier that once saved her from a rattlesnake attack. Penny loves treats, especially if you put them in her favorite KONG^® toy.

Name: Stella

Stella is an 8-year-old Blue Heeler mix. She was found in a ditch in Georgia with another puppy. The two dogs are still best friends today and sleep together every night (sometimes in their owner's bed). Stella loves to play at the beach and is an expert at digging in the sand and chasing seagulls. She can even strum an acoustic guitar.

 

Courtesy of Subaru

The Car Store is proud to have been able to support our charitable community organizations. Thank you to all of our fans and customers for making it possible!

To The Car Store,

Thank you very much for your donation of five oil change gift certificates. Our members greatly appreciate your addition to our raffle.

-The Norwich Fire Department

 

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The Marines of the Twin State Detachment Marine Corps League are proud to report to you the results of the 2011 Toys for Tots Campaign.

With your support 40,794 toys were collected/purchased. The Toys for Tots Foundation supplied 6,513 supplemental toys. As you can see by the numbers local businesses and individuals are instrumental in the success of the Toys for Tots Program.

The Toys for Tots Program has grown tremendously since its inception. Toys for Tots Foundation assists over 700 local communities covering all 50 states.

Your local program is sponsored by you the community and the Marine Corps League Twin State Detachment (local Marines) located in Lebanon, NH. This was our 13^th year of working together to help the less fortunate children in our area.

Your program is local people/businesses helping local families , and for 2011 you all did a great job!

6,307 children received 40,794 gifts this Christmas. Thank you for making it happen!!! See you in 2012!!

-Rick M
Toys for Tots Coordinator

 

Thank you for supporting the 2011 Rotary Club of Lebanon Web Auction. Your support along with many other community-minded citizens allows us to provide assistance to many worthwhile endeavors.

This year's auction focus was on education. The plan was to raise funds for scholarships for graduating seniors from Lebanon High School and Mascoma High School. Two scholarships will be awarded this year -- a four year scholarship and a one year scholarship. They will be awarded on the basis of need, involvement in community activities, and academic promise.

In addition, auction proceeds will also benefit local charities and continue supporting Polio Plus, Rotary International's program to eradicate polio in the world.

Once again, thank you for your support and for support of the beneficiaries of auction proceeds.

-Rotary Club of Lebanon