New Lexus GS Hybrid - 120 Heartbeats

Come see our experiment: Can a hybrid get a passenger as excited about them as we are?

Our customers love telling us how we're doing!

"Buying my used truck from Dan at Lexus of Maplewood war a hassle-free experience. After locating the vehicle I wanted, Dan made the whole process quick and easy."

- Mary

We're Hiring!

Think you or somebody you know would be a good fit working for our family of businesses? There is no time like the present to start your career in the Automotive Industry!
 
Village Automotive Group is currently hiring! We currently have job openings at 4 different locations ranging from part-time work to full-time employment!
 
If you have great people skills, and a fondness for technology (with the ability to explain it), these are opportunities you will want to explore.
 
Sales Associate: Proven automotive sales performer who seeks opportunity for a rewarding career with the potential to be highly compensated.
 

Product Specialist: Responsible to understand and communicate to customers product availability; services and technology. Must be knowledgeable of the products/services offered with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and retention versus negotiation/price.

Village Automotive Group is an organization that rewards achievement, enthusiasm and team spirit. We offer each person superior opportunities for development and growth. Our philosophy is one of open communications between employees and management which we believe is conducive to a positive work environment.

 

For more information visit www.villageautomotivegroup.com and click on the careers tab.

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Service Scheduling

Check Monthly
Check Engine Light On
Cleaning
Lights
Tire Inflation and Condition
Windshield Washer Fluid

Check every 3 months/3,000 miles
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Battery and Cables
Belts
Check Engine Light On
Engine Air Filter
Engine Oil and Filter
Exhaust
Fuel Filter
Hoses
Lights
Power Steering Fluid
Tire Inflation and Condition
Windshield Washer Fluid

Check every 6 months/6,000 miles
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Battery and Cables
Belts
Chassis Lubrication
Check Engine Light On
Polish
Engine Air Filter
Engine Oil and Filter
Exhaust
Fuel Filter
Hoses
Lights
Power Steering Fluid
Tire Inflation and Condition
Windshield Washer Fluid
Wiper Blades

Check every 9 months/9,000 miles
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Battery and Cables
Belts
Check Engine Light On
Engine Air Filter
Engine Oil and Filter
Exhaust
Fuel Filter
Hoses
Lights
Power Steering Fluid
Tire Inflation and Condition
Windshield Washer Fluid

Check every 12 months/12,000 miles
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Battery and Cables
Belts
Brakes
Cabin Air Filter
Chassis Lubrication
Check Engine Light On
Polish
Coolant (Antifreeze)
Engine Air Filter
Engine Oil and Filter
Exhaust
Fuel Filter
Hoses
Lights
Power Steering Fluid
Spark Plugs
Steering and Suspension
Tire Inflation and Condition
Windshield Washer Fluid
Wiper Blades

Vehicle System/Component Service Notes

Automatic Transmission Fluid
Check fluid level with engine running and
transmission in park. If low, add the type
of automatic transmission fluid specified
in the owner's manual and/or on dipstick.
For maximum performance, change every
two years or 24,000 miles, or as directed
in owner's manual.

Battery and Cables
Battery should be securely mounted.
Battery connection should be clean, tight
and corrosion free. If the battery is three
years old or more, it should be tested and
replaced if necessary.

Belts
Check V-belts and serpentine belts for
looseness and condition. Replace when
cracked, frayed, glazed or showing signs
of excessive wear. Replace timing belt per
interval specified in owner's manual.
Typically this is 60,000 to 90,000 miles.
Not replacing the belt as required could
cause a breakdown or serious engine
damage.

Brakes
Check the entire brake system every year,
including brake linings, rotors and drums.

Cabin Air Filter
Replace annually, or more often in areas
with heavy airborne contaminants or
whenever heating or cooling efficiency is
reduced.

Chassis Lubrication
Many newer cars are lubed-for-life; some
still require this service. Check owner's
manual. Replacement steering and
suspension components may require
periodic lubrication.

Check Engine Light On
If light comes on while driving or remains
on, your vehicle may have an emissions or
sensor problem and should be analyzed. If
light flashes, the condition is more severe
and must be checked immediately to
prevent catalytic converter damage.

Cleaning & Polishing
To prevent stripping the vehicle's wax
finish, use only automotive car wash
products, not dishwashing liquids. Polish

at least twice a year to maintain and protect the finish.

Coolant (Antifreeze)
Check level at reservoir. Never open a hot
radiator cap. If low, add 50/50 mix of
approved antifreeze and distilled water.
Change coolant annually on most vehicles.

Engine Air Filter
Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace
annually or when leaking, torn, water or
oil soaked, dirty or showing other signs of
wear.

Engine Oil and Filter
Check level with engine off at every fill
up. For maximum engine life, change oil
and filter every three months or 3,000
miles or as directed in your owner's
manual. Use specified oil grade and weight.

Exhaust
Inspect for leaks, damage and broken
supports or hangers if there is an unusual
noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous
and must be corrected without delay.

Fuel Filter
Inspect filter at each oil change. Replace
if restricted or water contaminated or
once a year on cars with carburetors. On
cars with fuel injection, replace filter
every two years or 24,000 miles.

Hoses
Inspect hoses at each oil change and
replace when leaking, brittle, cracked,
rusted, swollen or restricted.

Lights
Replace bulb immediately if light is out.
Check fuses first.

Oxygen Sensor
Replace at interval as recommended in
owner's manual or when other conditions
dictate, such as failing an emissions test.
Some cars have an oxygen sensor
replacement light that appears when
oxygen sensor replacement is needed.
1996 and newer cars have more than
one oxygen sensor.

Power Steering Fluid
Check the fluid with the car warmed up.
Add correct type of fluid if low. If
frequent topping off is required, inspect
for leaks and replace if contaminated.

Spark Plugs
Typical replacement intervals range
between 30,000 and 100,000 miles,
depending on the vehicle and type of
spark plug. Always consult your owner's
manual for your specific vehicle.

Steering and Suspension
Inspect system annually, including shock
absorbers, struts and chassis parts, such
as ball joints, tie rod ends and other
related components. Replace if leaks,
damage and loose mounting hardware
are found. Symptoms of worn suspension
include uneven tire wear and excessive
bouncing after bumps.

Tire Inflation and Condition
Check the pressure of all tires, including
the spare, at every oil change. Check the
tread for uneven or irregular wear and
cuts or bruises along the sidewalls.
Inflate tires and maintain at
recommended pressure. Replace tires if
worn or damaged.

Windshield Washer Fluid
Check fluid level monthly. Some vehicles
have two reservoirs. Do not use water.
Use washer fluid only.

Wiper Blades
Replace every six months or when
cracked, cut, torn, streaking or
chattering.

 

Courtesy of CarCare.org

More kind words. Check out these glowing customer reviews!

"I have great service at Lexus in maplewood everybody very nice and professional. I forgot the name (service consultant). He's very helful and get every thing done perfectly . I am very happy every time I have service there"

"The team was great at Lexus of Maplewood. This is our second car that we have bought from Eric and will keep coming back. We also were so satisfied that we referred 2 more of our friends to Lexus of Maplewood and they bought cars. Keep up the great work"

 - Ryan

"I had an overall good experience and everyone seemed friendly. We were lucky to have Spencer who was hospitable and made the whole pr"ocess easier. I liked the fact that they had refreshments for its clients."

- Rita

 

 

 

Employee Spotlight - Greg Carlini

This month, the Lexus of Maplewood Pre-Owned Department is proud to highlight Greg Carlini. Greg Carlini has been with Lexus of Maplewood for 7 years and will be celebrating his anniversary here this Novem

ber. He started out in the Pre-Owned Department and has been very successful as a Sales Associate.

One of the reason’s Greg has so much success with our customers is his positive attitude. He comes to Lexus of Maplewood every day ready to help our customers and gives every person the best customer service he can provide. I asked Greg what his favorite part about his job is and he commented, “I really love meeting and getting to know people from all walks of life. And of course I love selling! Lexus of Maplewood is a fantastic place to work because of the supportive culture. I am really honored to have the opportunity to be a Sales Associate at Lexus of Maplewood.”

When Greg started at the dealership he had 10 years of experience in Sales, but before his dealership career there was his career in television. Greg followed in his father’s footsteps as director of TV shows and producingTV commercials for a local NBC station in Nebraska. His father, Ulysses Carlini, is a pioneer in TV and was inducted into the Nebraska Broadcasters Association’s Hall of Fame in 2005. Greg’s dad is recognized for helping TV become a respected and trusted source of entertainment for more than 50 years. As former KNOP-TV operations manager, Greg enjoyed producing, directing and creating award-winning TV shows and commercials while in Nebraska.

Greg met his wife, Jodi, an anchor/reporter at the TV station and now they have been married for 29 years. Greg and Jodi moved to the Twin Cities when Jodi took a position with KSTP-TV where she worked for 10 years before taking the senior public relations and video producer position with HealthEast Care System, where she also hosts and produces the Emmy-award winning TV show, “Inside Health Care.”

Greg enjoys spending his time outside of work with his family. His son Joe is following in his own father’s footsteps by producing, but Film vs.Television. Joe is recognized as an up and coming, award-winning filmmaker, who recently held his first film premiere, a documentary called “Second Chance U” at the St. Anthony Main Theatre to a packed house. Joe is currently producing and directing his first full-length movie, “My Senior Year,” which he also wrote.

Greg’s daughter Christina, a Chicago resident, is in marketing for the Chicago Cubs and a former Twin Cities model. The family recently celebrated her wedding day at the Varsity Theatre in DinkeyTown.

All the employees in the Pre-Owned Department enjoy working with Greg and we look forward to many more exciting years of vehicle sales ahead.

More Details on the Lexus LF-CC Coupe Concept

Motor Trend had an opportunity to talk with the Lexus Design group manager Takeshi Tanabe about the new LF-CC concept that debuted yesterday, and it’s definitely worth reading — here a couple quotes:

 

Unlike other Lexus hybrids, the body design doesn’t aim to make explicit the hybrid powertrain or fuel-economy potential. “We used to show the cars were hybrid, but now this is more emotional and sporty,” says Lexus Design group manager Takeshi Tanabe. The long nose will also house gasoline engines, which at present consist of a version of the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four (IS 250), 3.5-liter V-6 (IS 350), and the 5.0-liter V-8 in the IS F in the U.S. This would be the first IS hybrid.

Tanabe explains, “In the past, Lexus was about reliability, quality, comfort, and silence. We still have that, but we are adding emotion through the design to attract younger buyers. From now, from the new GS and this CC Concept, we’re adding excitement.”

“Maybe some will like this car; maybe some won’t,” says Tanabe. “I don’t want to say we’ll offend people who don’t like it, but I do want to be distinctive.”

 

Courtesy of Lexus Enthusiast

Hearing these reviews makes our day!

"Matt was an excellent salesman and treated us very well. We had found the ES350 online and traded our ES330 in on this "new" one. We are completely satisfied with the process and the product, which is why we returned to Lexus of Maplewood. This is truly a fine vehicle and I enjoy the service/maintenance experience."

 

"Matt is very professional and takes the time to make sure that I am satisfied with everything."

Come in for a test drive today!

Our certified pre-owned vehicles will be sure to make both your need for speed and your wallet smile!

Check out what these happy customers have to say about our service!

 

"I had my best experience with Lexus when I was lucky to have Greg as my saleman. He helped me find the car that I have been looking for, he called me whenever a car came in that I might be interested in. I think that is over the normal saleman. I would tell my friends and family who to contact who would help the best. I really appreciate all the help I received from Greg. Thanks Again!!"

- Linda

"I recently purchased my first (used) Lexus at this dealership. I was absolutely amazed by the professionalism, support, and follow up of everyone I worked with. My sales person was Jeremy who took the time to answer all my questions and ensure the entire car buying process was quick and easy. He completely accomodated my rather hectic schedule and made sure I understood and was comfortable with all of the car's features (he even scheduled time on an alternate day so that the delivery coordinator could go over things with me when it best fit my schedule). I could not have been more impressed with this dealership!"

 

"In one word lovely sums up my experience at Maplewood Lexus. The staff was warm and engaging without an ounce of urgency or push. Jeremy first spent time with me looking at new lease options even though he was in used sales. Eventually I found a used vehicle online and when I contacted him about seeing it he came into work early to assist me. I was long over due for a nice ride and it was truly a happy occasion for me made even more special by the staff who assisted me."

 

"I found Maplewood Lexus to be an excellent dealership. The staff was helpful without being pushy."

 

More great words from happy patrons!

"Matt provided us with very professional, knowledgeable, and friendly sales and service regarding the purchase of our RX 350. We brought our previous Lexus in for service and ended up purchasing the RX350 from Matt. Matt impresses us with his recognition of us as his customers, including our names and where we are from. We have recommended him to our friends because of his honesty, genuineness, and knowledge of Lexus products."

"I recently purchased a pre-owned vehicle at Lexus of Maplewood and Dan not only earned my business but my loyalty. Thank you again for your efforts!"

"Our overall experience with the salesperson and dealer was very positive. The process was very stress free. The salesperson was so accommodating. He answered every question and following up on our many requests."

 

Click here to see more reviews at Cars.com

 

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Tailgating

It's nearly Fall, and odds are most of us are participating in, watching, or cheering on some kind of sports team. And for many fans, a game is not a game unless a tailgate precedes it. Taking it one step further... If you've got a 4WD Pick up Truck or SUV, chances are your vehicle serves as home base for your friends and family at the tailgate party!

Here are the best tips from professional tailgaters on how to throw the perfect tailgate party yourself, as well as tips to help you become the ultimate tailgater:

 

Make a Tailgating Checklist

To ensure nothing gets left at home, make a list of things you need to take to the tailgate party. Be sure to put your game tickets on the list too!

 

Have a Tailgating Theme

Think up a creative theme for your tailgate. If it's Thanksgiving, bring a turkey. If it's Christmas, bring a tree. Or, base your theme and decorations on the opponent. For example, you might have Cajun food against the Saints, Philly cheese steaks against the Eagles, or fish against the Dolphins.

 

Dress for the Occasion

Dress appropriately for several hours outdoors -- and be prepared for drastic temperature changes. And don't forget to wear comfortable shoes.

 

Show Some Tailgating Team Spirit

Show your team spirit... Wear team colors. Tailgaters are usually the biggest and best fans! After all, to become the ultimate tailgater, you'll want to stir up some tailgater's envy!

 

Timing is Everything

Get there early. You'll want to arrive 3-4 hours before game time to beat the crowd and claim your turf. And, plan to stay late so as to not miss a moment of the post-game enthusiasm.

 

Location, Location, Location

Set up your tailgate party near a grassy area, or bring a roll of Astroturf to set up at the end of the row -- for a more comfortable atmosphere with lots of room to socialize. Parking at the end of a row can also give you more partying space.

 

Tailgating in Parking Lots

Serious tailgaters choose a parking lot that has a view of the stadium if on-site parking is not available. Since the stadium is your Mecca, you need to be able to see it so you can bow to it occasionally.

 

Mark Your Spot At The Tailgating Party

A flag or team pennant on a tall pole helps people locate the party and makes a statement of team spirit.

 

Seating Arrangements

Don't worry about bringing chairs for everyone. Those who want to sit will bring their own chairs.

 

Generating Power

Serious tailgaters bring a small generator for powering a TV, stereo system or electric space heater during cold weather games.

 

Timing the Eats

Make sure your food is ready 1 to 2 hours before game time, so you have enough time to eat, clean up and find your seat in the stadium.

 

Put out the Fire

If you're using a charcoal grill, bring along extra water to douse the embers and a plastic garbage bag to put the cold coals in.

 

Be Smokey's Best Friend

Make sure that you have some way of extinguishing and throwing away your hot coals. Whatever you do, dispose of firewood or charcoal briquettes properly. Some stadiums have a designated place for hot ashes, but do not dump them in the grass or in trash bins.

Garbage In, Garbage Out

Bring your own lawn-size trash bags, because there never seem to be enough garbage receptacles on hand.

 

Courtesy of About.com

LFA Owners Make Their Mark at Laguna Seca Raceway

Lexus held its first-ever LFA owners event at the Laguna Seca Raceway on August 23, 2012. Watch Scott Pruett, pro driver, give some helpful hints to nearly two dozen owners as they try their hand at one of the most prestigious race tracks in the country.

More glowing reviews! Thank you to our customers for letting us know we exceeded expectations.

"We had talked on the phone before we actually met face to face. Greg was prepared to show us what we wanted and helped us make the right decision. We are very happy with the vehicle we chose."

"I had a great experience buying a used car here. The staff, particularly Mr. Matt Saunders, were friendly, enthusiastic and listened to exactly what I was looking for in a car. He made it as easy as possible. I was offered multiple options based on what I stated was important to me in a car, and in the end, I ended up with a used Acura TL that I am completely happy with. When I moved from the area, Mr. Saunders even went as far as to recommend a new facility for servicing in my area. I would highly recommend the dealership for their high level of service"

800 miles for satisfaction was worth it. Thank you, Steve!

"THE CAR WAS WHAT YOU SAID IT WOULD BE. I HAVE BEEN VERY SATISFIED AND IT WAS WORTH THE 800 MILES I TRAVELED TO PICK IT UP"

- Steve

Today we reflect on fallen heroes as well as every American who has served to protect this great nation.

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Driving with Pets

Did You Know...

84% of pet owners say they travel with their pet in automobiles

Source: American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA) 2006 National Pet Owner Survey

If you're planning to take your pet with you on trips in the car, start early when the pet is young to get used to the routine. Short jaunts across town and back or easy day trips will get your pet used to the ride. A carsick pet can make the trip miserable for everyone.

A seat upholstery protector, such as a pet hammock or waterproof seat cover will make clean-ups easier in case your pet does get sick or has an accident.

Be sure to bring along cleaning supplies to avoid having to search out a place to purchase them at the last minute.

Make your pet travel experience fun and enjoyable by following these simple, common sense pet travel tips:

• Safely secure your pet while traveling. An unrestrained pet can become a deadly projectile in the event of a sudden stop or crash, causing serious injury (even death) to passengers. For example, an unsecured, 25-pound dog in a 40 mph crash becomes a 1,000-pound mass (half a ton) flying uncontrollably inside the vehicle.
• Dogs should be restrained with either a seatbelt or harness designed for pet travel. Smaller dogs can be secured in pet car seats, which allow them to also see out, while being properly restrained.
• Never attach a restraining device to the pet's collar. Always use a harness to prevent injury.
• Cats should be contained in a crate, cage or pet car seat that is secured with a seat belt. Never allow a cat to roam freely in the vehicle, as it could get tangled around the driver's feet or get in the driver's sight of the road.
• Do not allow your pet to ride with its head outside of the window. An obstacle close to the vehicle could potentially strike your pet's head, causing injury or death, or dirt particles could get into your pet's ears, nose, eyes, or throat, causing health problems.
• It's a good idea to stop every couple of hours for your pet and you to stretch and walk around. Be sure to have your pet's leash handy to have control and so your pet doesn't run away in unfamiliar surroundings.
• Have your own supply of cold water, as fresh water is not always handy or convenient when you need to stop.
• Have your pet consume small amounts of food and water, but don't allow to overeat or drink if you still have more traveling to do. Reserve your pet's main meal for the end of the day.
• Leaving a pet in a parked car is never a good idea. Temperatures in confined spaces in the summer time can heat up fast, causing heatstroke — even death — to a pet. Extremely cold temperatures in the winter can be just as threatening, so be sure not to leave a pet in the car if the temperature is near the freezing mark.
• A pet first-aid kit is an essential item to pack when venturing out and should contain things such as antiseptic cream, assorted bandages, tweezers, eye drops, gauge, tape, and the like. Phone numbers for your pet's vet, the National Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435), and emergency pet hospitals in the areas where you plan to travel should be taken along.
• A travel tag on a pet's collar will help someone locate you should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home), including addresses and phone numbers. A cell phone number is also a good idea since most people have one with them, especially when they travel.

Bus or Train

• State and local restrictions usually prohibit pets from riding on buses or trains unless they are assisting visually impaired or physically challenged persons. Always check in advance with these transportation providers to find out what regulations they may impose.

Courtesy of Pet Travel Center

We are thrilled with our fantastic customer feedback! Thank you all for the rave reviews.

"My wife and I had a great experience throughout the entire process. The entire staff, including our sales associate Mark Kuller, were very courteous and helpful. We got the exact make and model that we were looking for. We would definately come back to this location."

- Arthur

"Jeremey did a fantastic Job! He is the ultimate professional and makes sure everything is right . We will definitely do business with him and Lexus of Maplewood. Just a quality organization. Thank you!"

"I had a tremendous car buying experience from Lexus of Maplewood. My sales rep, Jeremy Mertes, made a very hard decision a very easy one. He was very professional and patient and we will definitely use him again with our future vehicle needs. Thanks Jeremy."

- Tom

"I met with Jeremy Mertes when I had stopped in for service on my 2005 RX and indicated I was looking to upgrade to a 2009 or 2010. He asked some questions regarding preferences and needs and said he'd be in touch. Within a couple of weeks, he emailed me with information on a 2009. It had all the features I had requested. We visited, test drove, finished the deal and I've been pleased with the car and the dealership. My husband bought a used Miata the following week and is still waiting for license tags and the title from his dealer."

- Melinda

"This is our third car purchase at Lexus of Maplewood and we wouldn't think of going anywhere else! The staff are professional and they make the process of purchasing a car painless. We also service our vehicles there and have always been treated as valued customers during service/repairs. If you are shopping for a car, this is the place to go. Lexus of Maplewood Rocks!"

Employee Spotlight - Kevin Kriegshauser

Kevin Kriegshauser has been working with Lexus since 1996. He initially started his career with our friends down at Lexus of Clearwater in Florida. In 1999 he moved back to Minnesota and began work as a technician for Lexus of Maplewood. He was hired by our general manager Robert Katz and can go down in history as our first ever online hire.

 

Kevin grew up in Plymouth and was a graduate of Osseo Senior Highschool. He also spent some time living in Ohio, New Jerseym and Illinois. Kevin graduated from Dunwoody College of Technology in 1994 and has been Lexus Master Certified since 1999. For the past two years he has had the role of the team lead technician and enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with others. 

 

Kevin has ten-year-old twin daughters named Sydney and Kacie. Outside of work he is a Lieutenant and EMT for the Hugo Fire Department, where he is also a crew leader. When he’s not working he enjoys spending time outdoors with my kids and my girlfriend Melissa and her children. I also enjoy hunting and shooting sports.