Everyone’s heard a lot of opinions about gas mileage, but what is the truth when it comes to getting the best mileage on your current model? As it turns out, several different conditions determine a car’s ability to run smoothly. We’ve complied some important facts — and debunked a few common misconceptions — about gas mileage, as well as some models that rise to the task of delivering a quality ride for every type of driver.

Fact: Tires with proper air levels help save on gas. 

A vehicle will burn more gas while driving on tires with lower air and tread. Driving with under-inflated tires is dangerous, but over-inflating them can be just as bad. Filling your tires to the proper level will optimize gas as well as mitigate the risk of popping a tire — not to mention your drives will be smoother and more comfortable.

Myth: Small cars get better mileage based on their size.

Large vehicles can obtain equal, if not superior, gas mileage compared to smaller cars. If an engine is in optimum shape and the owner performs sufficient maintenance and diligent service to their car, then there’s no reason why a larger car can’t eke out the same gas mileage as a compact car. For instance, the 2017 Toyota Prius is a midsize model that achieves a medium 50 MPG despite its standard size, which can save tons on gas. Each model size has its perks, of course, but where gas is concerned, it is best to cross-compare mileages over a range of similar model sizes to get the best possible selection. You don’t necessarily have to go smaller to save big!

Fact: Wind resistance burns gas faster.

If wind speeds are high on the freeway, added pressure on your car will force it work harder to maintain speed. This can have a similar effect to leaving your air conditioning on for long stretches of time, so be mindful of your acceleration on windy days. Assess where and how long you’ll be driving and roll the windows down to alleviate heat as needed. The 2017 Lexus RX 350, with 295 horsepower and a host of visual display amenities, is a solid choice for a vehicle that can drive with ease on any terrain (without burning through too much gas).

Myth: Better fuel means better mileage.

Though certain cars do require a specific type of fuel, in most models it actually doesn’t matter. The different classifications of octane ratings are simply a grade that lets drivers know the level of resistance and compressibility in each variety. In standard engines, unless the maker specifies otherwise, filling up with the lowest grade will get the job done just as well as a higher-numbered grade. For example, any fuel of your choosing can be used with the 2017 Honda Civic to achieve a respectable 36 miles per gallon combined on city roads and highways.

Fact: LexService offers top-quality service to help your vehicle run efficiently.

Still have questions about gas mileage? Let the experts at LexService advise you! We offer repairs, maintenance and care to Japanese model cars in the South Bay, Torrance, and Harbor City areas. Our team of experts has over 65 years of experience and a mission statement that prioritizes dependability and quality.

Lexus is known for innovation and luxury, and this year they’ve outdone themselves when it comes to new and exciting features on their vehicles. Since 1989, when Lexus introduced its first sedan, the company has been living up to its tagline, “the Pursuit of Perfection.” Here are four models with features you won’t be able to drive without.

The 2017 RX

This crossover vehicle combines style with utility in its luxury features. Style features of this vehicle include racing details on the body, ambient interior lighting, and handcrafted trim. In addition, the RX includes useful features like touch-free rear door and a panoramic view of your surroundings for driving and parking. Kids will be entertained on long trips with a versatile, dual-screen entertainment system in the backseat — while the adults in the car can listen to music on the RX’s built-in Mark Levinson® Audio system.

The 2017 GX

The luxury GX model continues to focus on careful detailing and convenient touches. Even though the GX is designed for utility, it also has some seriously luxurious touches, like handcrafted leather seats and a well-designed cockpit. The GX also comes equipped with the Lexus Enform, an entertainment and safety system that you control from the driver’s seat.

The 2017 ES

For high-end SUV lovers, look no further than the 2017 ES. With handcrafted leather interiors and skylights throughout the vehicle, Lexus bills the ES as offering the “ultimate level of comfort.” The ES also ensures that you’re driving efficiently, with expert suspension and aerodynamic design.

The 2017 CT Hybrid

This compact hatchback offers luxury features that will make you fall in love driving in all over again. At its core, the CT is a car for people who live to drive: it offers an expert handling mode that makes the vehicle more efficient and responsive, as well as a driver-focused cockpit that makes it that much easier for you to drive the way you want to. Additionally, the CT has an Advanced Navigation system that makes it easier and safer than ever for you to get around.

You love your Lexus, but if you want to make the most of it, give it regular, full-service care from people who know what they’re doing. That’s why LexService is the place for Lexus maintenance: we know Lexus better than anybody in Los Angeles, Torrance and surrounding areas. Plus, we perform maintenance for a significantly lower price than the dealership. Contact LexService today for a quote!

When choosing a new car, one of the biggest selling points for many models is an impressive record on fuel efficiency. Having a reliable, energy-efficient vehicle is more than just a trend by now — it has become a cornerstone of sustainable car ownership and environmentalism. The automobile world has already taken great strides in hybrid advancement so far this year; check out our top picks in fuel efficiency on the market right now!

Joining the Toyota lineup this year is the 2017 Prius Prime, the company’s first ever plug-in hybrid model. It tops 53 miles per gallon in any suburban or rural scheme, and in cities that range can stretch to an impressive 55 mpg. When the initial gas engine capacity runs out, the hybrid concept automatically turns on and the car switches to running electrically. This process saves on fuel expenditures and allow users the flexibility to charge their Prius Prime at their own convenience. And it isn’t even that costly: at a $27,100 starting price, consumers will save a significant percentage on this hybrid Toyota than similar models of a different make.

Another fuel-efficient — and even more affordable — Toyota is the 2017 Toyota Prius C, which has an MSRP of $20,150 to start. This is a great choice for first-time buyers who are looking for the hybrid experience, but keep in mind that its overall stature is better for short distances and commutes, not long road trips. The Toyota Prius C gets an EPA-estimated 48 mpg in cities and 43 mpg on freeways; for a subcompact car, it outperforms other class models. Drivers can choose from four trim levels to match other extensive features.

For anyone in the market for a larger car, the 2017 Honda Accord Hybrid has a mid-size body with the fuel efficiency of a smaller vehicle. The Accord Hybrid has a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, both of which compliment each other to power the car. It receives a whopping 49 miles per gallon in cities and 47 mpg on freeways. For a more premium option, buyers can check out the Accord Hybrid EX-L or Accord Hybrid Touring, which offer comfortable luxuries — but come with a higher price tag.

Contact the experts at LexService

for more information about how to optimize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency for the duration of car ownership. We offer service, maintenance and repairs on all Japanese makes and models throughout the Torrance and South Bay area.   LexService is your Japanese car specialist in Los Angeles count and and are available to answer any questions you may have about your vehicle, old or new. Don’t just drive safe — drive smart!

Choosing a car for your child may be one of the toughest decisions you make as a parent. With thousands of options out there, from dozens of car dealers to online car shopping sites, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Often, parents have to compromise on one concern to prioritize another — for instance, price versus safety, or fuel economy versus reliability.

For parents tired of making these trade-offs, Japanese car maker Honda has proven to be one of the best all-around performers in the automotive industry. Time and time again, Hondas have come out on top in each of the specs mentioned above (price, safety, fuel economy, and reliability) in both Consumer and Vehicular Industry Reports. Take the 2017 Honda Civic, for example, which ranked third on U.S. News & World’s List of Best Compact Cars. With a MSRP of $18,740, this car was also named a 2017 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety — ensuring your kid’s safety at a price that won’t break your bank. The 2017 Civic also has a fuel economy return of up to 32/42 mpg (one of the best estimates in its class) and a 3.5/5 reliability rating from J. D. Power.

The 2017 Civic is not only sleek and elegantly designed, but the base model also comes equipped with the latest in automotive technology, including a rearview “backup” camera, a 5-inch LCD screen, and Bluetooth smartphone connectivity (which your child is sure to love).

Honda has won multiple awards for being the Best Overall and Most Trusted Brand among non-luxury shoppers from vehicular valuation sources such as Kelley Blue Book. That said, don’t forget to teach your first-time driver that regular maintenance is essential to ensure the safety, reliability, drivability, comfort, and longevity of their new Honda car. In fact, with proper and regular maintenance, most Honda engines have a reported lifespan of over 300,000 miles.

To keep his or her new car in great condition, your child should follow recommended maintenance schedules (per miles driven, and preferably specific to Honda). Examples of services that all car owners should perform include oil and filter changes, brake inspections, throttle linkage lubrications, and tire rotations. Auto repair and service shops such as LexService, which services all Japanese makes and models in the South Bay and Artesia areas, can easily take care of these essential maintenance needs.

Car repair can be very frustrating for anyone. This is especially true if you depend on your vehicle to commute to or from your daily errands. Fortunately, you can avoid these frustrating incidents by having maintenance performed for your vehicle regularly.

Here is some information about the benefits of regular maintenance and the importance of following your recommended maintenance schedule.

Importance of Regular Maintenance for Your Vehicle

A common mistake that drivers make is not bothering to maintain their vehicle. The best way to extend the life of any car is through regular car maintenance. If you want to avoid future and costly car repairs, you need to have your vehicle serviced and checked regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Here are some of the many advantages of having your vehicle maintained regularly.

Improved Performance

Regular maintenance on your Honda or Toyota will help you maintain the good performance of your vehicle. If you fail to make oil changes and tire rotations for your vehicle, you can expect your car to develop signs of wear and tear even faster than before. Over time, this wear and tear will have a negative impact on the performance of your vehicle.

Better Gas Mileage

Having your Honda or Toyota vehicle maintained regularly will allow you to enjoy better gas mileage. When all the parts of your vehicle are working well, you can expect your vehicle to use gas more efficiently.

Therefore, regular maintenance means you won’t have to make as many stops at the gas station while you’re on your way to work or to the grocery store. You can count on regular maintenance to make your vehicle perform better and last longer on the road.

Boosted Safety

Another advantage of regular maintenance for your Honda or Toyota is boosted safety. When your vehicle breaks down on the side of the road, the safety of you and your passengers is in jeopardy. Regular maintenance will ensure that all issues are dealt with before your vehicle breaks down.

Also, when you have your vehicle serviced, crucial components of the vehicle will be checked for issues. Therefore, regularly maintaining your Honda or Toyota translates to boosted safety. After all, the last thing you want is for the braking and suspension system to fail you at the moment when you need it the most.

Save Money Long Term

Many people frown away from the idea of regular maintenance because they want to save their money. However, the truth is that regular maintenance will actually save you money in the long run. It will cost you far less to have your Honda or Toyota maintained regularly than to drop thousands of dollars to repair a severe issue with your vehicle that could have been resolved in its early stages during a regular inspection.

Not only is it important that you regularly maintain your Honda or Toyota, but it is vital that you follow your recommended maintenance schedule. Skipping inspections could cause an issue with your vehicle to go undetected until it’s too late.For more information about the importance of regular car maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us here at LexService. We have ASE certified mechanics and technicians Torrance and Artesia for Nissan, Honda, Lexus, Toyota, and other Japanese vehicles.