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Summer in Westchester County, New York, is a beautiful time of year and the perfect opportunity to get out of the house and make some memories. Whether you're looking for family fun, romance, or relaxation, there are a variety of exciting activities in and around the county to enjoy. Here at Bill Volz Westchester, we love helping our customers, so we put together a list of five upcoming summer events you can add to your calendar this year. Minnie Untermyer Concert Series What better way to enjoy the summer than some music outdoors? With the Minnie Untermyer Concert Series, you have the opportunity to explore exciting performances in the outdoor amphitheater. Hosted by the Untermyer Gardens Conservancy, each event has its ticket price ranging from $35 to $50 per person. You can stroll through the beauty of the gardens before settling in for an evening of enchanting professional music and dance. Performances include a choral concert from Voices of Ascension on June 4, the Persian Saba Ensemble on June 12, and the Westchester Philharmonic String Quartet on June 26. In July, you can look forward to the Mudavis Indian Dance on July 8, Ana Vidovic on classical guitar on July 17, Tom Gold Dance on July 24, and the Townsley's Jubilee Gospel Singers on July 31. Finally, August and early September feature performances by Michael Fennelly & The Athenians, the Victor LaGamma Jazz Trio, Lori Belilove, and the Isadora Duncan Dance Company. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Tours On the western edge of Westchester County, the town of Sleepy Hollow contains some of the spookiest cemetery lore in the country. Experience the thrills firsthand by signing up for a Sleepy Hollow Cemetery tour. You can sign up for the daytime tour, which is available on weekends in the summer through August. This tour will teach guests about the short story that made Sleepy Hollow famous and its author, Washington Irving. If you're fascinated by the town's history, you might be interested in the Good, the Band, and the Unusual! tour that features local historians. If you want actual goosebumps, you can also opt for an evening lantern tour. These take place on Saturday nights during the summer and allow visitors to seek out iconic gravestones through kerosene lanterns. You can also keep an ear out for the Sleepy Hollow Murder and Mayhem event, which includes a two-hour lantern-lit walking tour, complete with actors in roles like a pair of brothers involved in a murder-suicide and a deadly opera singer. The hosting group doesn't recommend this event for guests younger than 18. Sky Tonight Planetarium Show Visit the planetarium this summer to see the sky as you've never seen it before with the Sky Tonight Planetarium Show. Purchase tickets for the hourlong interactive show, then sit back and gaze at planets, stars, the Milky Way, comets, and more. You'll also learn about constellations, black holes, alien worlds, and meteor showers. If you're lucky, you may spot a satellite or learn about upcoming rocket launches. Mornings in June are also a particularly good time to see planets in the night sky, so you can plan your planetarium visit accordingly. This event is recommended for guests ages 8 and older, and Domino Sugar Yonkers Refinery sponsors it. Guests are currently required to wear masks. Although the planetarium allows walk-ins, it highly encourages advanced registration. Caramoor Concerts and Tea In the northeastern portion of Westchester County, you'll find a mecca of summer events known as the Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts. This organization hosts a captivating series of summer events set amid the glorious gardens and grounds. These events can make the perfect relaxing day trip for families or a romantic evening date. You can book an afternoon tea session and enjoy special tea flavors, like Ceylon waltz black tea, raspberry-pomegranate iced tea, or a green rooibos tea. You can also enjoy sandwiches like the curried chicken salad and arugula on a mini brioche bun. Try to time your visit to coincide with one of the exciting cultural events the Caramoor hosts. A few upcoming events include a soundscapes event featuring performances from vocal percussionist Dominic Talifero, the percussive dancing duo of Caleb Teicher and Nic Gareiss, and a music experience from Raquel Acevedo Klein, all on the Caramoor grounds on June 5. It also plans to host a Juneteenth celebration in collaboration with the town of Bedford on June 19. Classical music lovers are also in luck because on June 18, the Venetian Theater is hosting a concert by Yo-Yo Ma & the Knights. Storytime at Muscoot Farm Every Wednesday this summer, you and your little ones can enjoy a story read aloud at the Orange Tractor on Muscoot Farm. This is one of many Muscoot Farm events targeted toward young children and their caretakers. After the story, the group can take a walk around the farm and enjoy a lot of exciting farm sights and smells. The registration fee is $20 per child. If you enjoy the farm atmosphere, you can also explore the other exciting events, like Morning Farm Chores on Saturdays and Farm Skills on Tuesdays. Both of these events give young children the opportunity to learn new skills and experience farm life from a young age. You can also sign up for the Thursday evening Book and Cook events, where children and caregivers can listen to a story and then cook a delicious treat that connects to the story they just heard. There you have it. We've just listed five exciting events you can enjoy in and around Westchester this summer. Did we miss your favorite upcoming event? Let us know. You can call our expert staff at 888-328-3998, contact us online via our secure web form, or stop by our dealership at 2293 Crompond Road in Cortlandt, New York. While you're at it, take a look at our collection of new vehicles or our selection of used cars available in Westchester.

Most drivers know that it's important to get their oil changed, but not everyone understands why. Here at Bill Volz Westchester in Cortlandt, New York, we love to help our customers understand their cars and how to take care of them, so we've put together an explanation of why regular oil changes are important. We'll also go over how often you should change your oil, the benefits of doing so, and how to change your oil. Should You Go By Oil Life or Mileage? Experts recommend changing your oil after about 3,000 to 7,000 miles of driving. The exact instructions may differ depending on your vehicle's make and model. If you'd like to check your vehicle's recommended oil change schedule, you can look it up in your owner's manual or contact us at Bill Volz Westchester. If you're not sure how long ago you last changed your oil, you can check for signs that it's time for an oil change. These include illumination of the oil warning light, the car's check engine light, or an abnormal oil level. Other factors influencing how often you should change the oil in your vehicle include the type of road you often drive on and the weather conditions you experience. You can follow the standard recommendations in your user manual if you often drive in the city under normal driving conditions. If you often drive off-road, tow heavy trailers, or often drive in challenging weather, you might consider changing your oil more often than the manual suggests. Why Change Your Oil? Motor oil keeps your car running smoothly because it lubricates the engine as you drive. Over time, oil breaks down, thickens, and gets dirty. This makes it a less effective engine lubricant and may cause your engine to overheat. Changing it is a great way to keep the engine cool, healthy, and safe. Specifically, it may help preserve the integrity of moving engine parts, including the pistons and valves, because proper lubrication can prevent them from rubbing together and creating excess friction. What are the Benefits of Changing Your Oil Regularly? In addition to engine lubrication, here are a few specific advantages to following a regular oil change schedule: Improved Gas Mileage Gas mileage is the rate at which you travel as compared to the number of gallons of gas it takes to travel that distance. Fuel-efficient vehicles are more likely to have better gas mileage, meaning you can travel farther with fewer gallons of gas. Cars with regular oil changes can also achieve better gas mileage. This means that you can save gas and money by changing your oil regularly. If you drive long distances regularly, this might be useful. Cleaner Engine Changing the oil in your car is a great way to remove any dirt or grime that may have built up. With each oil change, it is also a good idea to replace your oil filter. Once you have removed this debris, your engine can run more smoothly than before. You can check how clean or dirty your oil is by observing the color. Clean oil is usually an amber color, so if your oil is dark or thick, making it difficult to see through, it may be time to change your oil. Increased Engine Life The improved gas mileage and engine lubrication that changing your oil consistently can accomplish may help prolong the life of your engine. This is because when the engine is running smoothly, it decreases the strain on each part of the engine. If you plan to keep your car for a long time, routine oil changes can help ensure its longevity. If you'd like to sell your vehicle, a record of regular maintenance can increase its value because of the increased engine life with which this maintenance is associated. Continued Warranty Many car manufacturer warranty agreements stipulate the owner must follow the recommended car maintenance schedule to receive full coverage. Changing your oil regularly can help ensure the manufacturer is responsible for reimbursing any engine damage you might encounter under the warranty agreement. This can save you thousands of dollars out of pocket. After all, the price of an oil change is significantly lower than the price of a new engine. How To Change Your Oil You can change your motor oil yourself. This process involves draining the car of all the old oil, replacing the filter, and adding the proper amount of new oil. To do this, you'll need access to your car's fuel drain port. For some vehicles, this may be underneath the car, so you'll need a jack to raise it and gain access. You'll also need a new filter, several rags, a reciprocal for oil collection, and new oil to put in once you've drained the old oil. After the oil change, check the oil levels before you hit the road. If you're nervous about changing the oil in your car yourself, why not leave it to the professionals? If you live in the Cortland area, you can schedule an oil change with us at Bill Volz Westchester. Our experienced technicians can change out your lube, oil, and filter to get you back on the road in no time. Schedule a Quick & Easy Oil Change in Cortlandt, NY, Today! Are you ready to change your oil? Here at Bill Volz Westchester, our goal is to help you keep your car running smoothly for the best possible price. Oil changes are one of the wide range of services we offer to help our customers achieve that goal. You can learn more about changing your oil, then schedule your service online today. To schedule over the phone, just give us a call at 914-402-9211. Alternatively, drop by our dealership at 2293 Crompond Road in Cortlandt. You can also keep an eye out for special deals on other car services, like battery testing, climate system cleaning, cooling system services, and tire rotation services. If you want to learn more about why you should change your oil or have questions about how to schedule an oil change, don't hesitate to contact us for more information. Photo Credit: Image used with permission via OEM

New Yorkers know pizza. Just look around, and you can find New York-style pizza all over the world. But what are the best local places to get the classic crust and toppings you love? We've put together a list of our favorite places for pizza in Westchester with mouthwatering suggestions to help you order the best pie in town. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana Image via Pixabay Founded in 1925 by Frank Pepe himself, an Italian immigrant from Naples, Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana offers pizzas steeped in tradition. After opening a bakery together, Pepe's wife, Filomena, added a little-known dish from Naples to the menu. You can still order the tomato pie with mozzarella and olive oil, the original pizza that started it all. Try another menu favorite, the white clam pizza, likely inspired by the fresh littleneck clams served as an appetizer. The veggie special also packs the good for your toppings with broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, onions, and peppers. Location: 1955 Central Park Ave., Yonkers, New York Phone number: 914-961-8284 Venice Pizza and Trattoria With homemade dough and fresh ingredients sourced locally, Venice Pizza and Trattoria is a local favorite with unique pies combining pasta and traditional Italian dishes into a pizza. Take the eggplant parmigiana pizza with slices of grilled eggplant covered in melted mozzarella over a crispy crust. The penne pasta vodka pizza features a savory vodka tomato sauce and cheese. They also serve Grandma-style pizzas, a thin, rectangular pie said to have originated in Long Island and modeled after the rustic pizzas Italian homemakers made. Try the chicken marsala pizza or bacon chicken ranch for a more modern take on pizza. Location: 731 N. Broadway, North White Plains, New York Phone number: 914-615-9460 Amore Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen The menu at Amore Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen gives diners a lot of choices for crusts, toppings, and sauce. With cauliflower and gluten-free crust options, its traditional and artisan pizzas offer a taste for everybody. Order the diavola with red chili flakes and spicy soppressata for a fiery pie. Hungry for a classic? Taste its chicken Parm pizza with chicken breast, tomato, and mozzarella. Bianchi (no red sauce) pizzas also come in flavors like the old country, with roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic, black olives, and mushrooms, or the Arthur Avenue Special, with fennel sausage and sauteed broccoli rabe. Location: 1 Kent Place, Armonk, New York Phone number: 914-273-3535 The Parlor The Parlor offers wild flavor creations in wood-fired pizzas. For instance, the everything bagel features Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses topped with everything bagel seasoning and a fresh egg. Or there's the lemonator, which has smoked provolone, chili, and cured lemons. Offering an impressive list of both red and white pizzas, this taste-forward pizza joint elevates the traditional pie. Lunch items differ slightly with some pizzas that only show up for afternoon diners, like the Sunday salad and calzone. Location: 14 Cedar St., Dobbs Ferry, New York Phone number: 914-478-8200 Fortina Pizza Fortina Pizza's eye-catching menu lists some intriguing names for their pies. Enjoy gourmet ingredients on a unique pie crafted by their pizza chefs with specials like the Don Freddy. with delicata squash, chilies, bacon, and fontina cheese. Try the Funghi e salumi topped with wild mushrooms, provolone, and finocchiona. Get real fancy with the LB, which features black truffle, robiolona, burrata, and Parmesan. Fortina also offers cooking classes to unleash your inner pizza chef for friends and family. Location: 136 S. Ridge St., Rye Brook, New York Phone number: 914-937-0900 Abatino's Abatino's may not have the most extensive pizza menu on our list, but what it has is sure to please a discerning pizza lover. Its traditional pan pizza features chopped garlic, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella on a thin crust. Other tasty choices include the salad pizza, which basically offers everything you'd find on a crispy romaine salad, from cucumber to olives and even house dressing, or the chicken barbeque pizza with red onions and a tangy sauce. It also offers a clam scampi pizza topped with baby clams and white wine. Location: 670 N. Broadway, White Plains, New York Phone number: 914-686-0380 Roma's Restaurant Roma's serves classic thin crust brick oven pizza with traditional, square Sicilian and a variety of specialty pies. For something new, try the mixed green salad pie with mesclun greens, tomatoes, red onion, and shaved Parmesan topped with balsamic vinaigrette. Or taste the Roma special with sausage, peppers, anchovies, mushrooms, and garlic. Its grandpa pizza inverts cheese and sauce, adding the mozzarella first, then topping it with tomatoes, garlic, and extra pecorino Romano. Location: 29 Columbus Ave., Tuckahoe, New York Phone number: 914-961-3175 Colony Grill While Colony Grill may not sound like a pizza place, it serves up some truly unique Irish-style pies. Its sparse menu lets you choose from uncommon toppings, like hot oil and stingers, to craft your own special pizza. Its breakfast pies feature your choice of bacon or sausage with egg and cheese. The salad pie comes with mixed greens topped with crispy veggies and a balsamic vinaigrette. Colony Grill serves up pizzas with a signature thin crust sprinkled with sea salt and oil. Location: 35 Abendroth Ave., Port Chester, New York Phone number: 914-934-2428 Pizzeria LaRosa Cooked in a 100-year-old restored wood-fire oven, the pies at Pizzeria LaRosa are handcrafted with fresh ingredients. When owners Matt DiGesu and Frank Pinello heard the story of this vintage restaurant in the heart of New Rochelle, they revived it as a local spot. Their simple pizza menu offers options for veggie-forward pies like the fried eggplant or meat-lover specials like the vodka pizza with smoked bacon. LaRosa also makes a vegan Margherita pizza with vegan cheese. Location: 12 Russel Ave., New Rochelle, New York Phone number: 914-633-0800 Like our list or have a suggestion of your own? Let us know so that we can get the list right. Just like the best pizza spots in town at Bill Volz Westchester, our selection of new and pre-owned vehicles gives you great options to buy or trade. Next time you're in the area to satisfy your pizza craving, feel free to stop in to meet our staff and find the ride of your dreams.

Bad traffic is enough to ruin anyone's day. If you're looking to drive around in your new Chrysler or Dodge vehicle with limited impediments, you may want to avoid the worst traffic areas around Westchester, New York. Here's a list of places and times to avoid if you want a smooth, quick trip. Taconic State Parkway Taconic State Parkway, which some locals simply refer to as the TSP, stretches for 104 miles. To understand why it's a road with such heavy traffic, you can first learn about its history. The concept for Taconic State Parkway was first introduced in 1895, and it opened in 1924. Its construction continued over the next several years as builders expanded it into Putnam County and Southern Dutchess County. Former President Franklin D. Roosevelt was responsible for the parkway's expansion, as he wanted a scenic road that stretched through the Hudson Valley area. While this road was a good idea when Westchester wasn't as populous, it has since developed into a dangerous situation. Most of Taconic State Parkway is only two lanes across, which means that it has trouble accommodating lots of cars during busy times. One report found that from early 2011 until mid-2014, more than 2,000 car accidents had occurred on the parkway. Most of these accidents occurred in Putnam County and Westchester County. Taconic State Parkway is particularly crowded on the southern stretches. In the morning, many drivers head to their jobs in New York City. This flow of vehicles creates heavy congestion. Conditions like snow, rain, and fog create even more severe traffic, as drivers have difficulty navigating the narrow, winding road. Reckless driving on this road is common, and frustrated drivers may be to blame. In 2015, police officers handed out more than 54,000 tickets, and most of them were to drivers traveling along the stretches of Putnam County and Westchester County. Speeding tends to be the primary offense. One of the most dangerous spots on the Taconic State Parkway used to be the Pudding Street intersection. Drivers traveling along Pudding Street had to cross the northbound and southbound lanes of Taconic State Highway to continue on their route. In 2020, a construction team added an overpass to make this area safer. Despite this slight improvement, it's best to avoid Taconic State Highway whenever possible. Amsterdam Avenue Tenth Avenue, which locals refer to as Amsterdam Avenue, is a road with heavy traffic, especially as locals head into Manhattan in the morning. It's a one-way road for a bit, as it carries cars heading north as far as West 110th Street. After that, it picks up as a two-way street. Amsterdam Avenue shares the nickname "Death Avenue" with its Eleventh Avenue counterpart, as it's quite narrow and can't adequately support the thousands of cars that pass through every morning and night. In 2016, a construction team installed a protected bike lane to help cyclists travel safely. This lane stretches from 72nd Street to 110th Street and has made the stretch a little safer for cyclists. However, the lane was repurposed from a lane that once contained car traffic, and drivers have noticed a difference. Car traffic seems to inch even slower, so you'll have to leave much earlier if you want to make it where you need to be on time. Cars seem to constantly stop and go, as the red lights cause severe backups in the morning. Drivers have to be attentive or risk getting into rear-end collisions. They also have to be aware of other drivers unsafely turning in from adjacent roads out of frustration. Avoiding Amsterdam Avenue is a great way to have some peace of mind during your morning commute or ride home from work. If you want further reassurance that you're safe on the road, bring your vehicle to our dealership's service center. We'll complete a full inspection of your vehicle's exterior and interior to ensure it's working as it should be. If it needs any services or repairs, we'll get to work so that you can get back on the road. New York State Route 59 New York State Route 59 is a state highway that runs east and west. It only runs for a little over 14 miles, but New Yorkers recognize that it's a slow-going road. One of the main reasons it gets so much traffic is because drivers use it to get to Palisades Center. Palisades Center is one of the largest shopping malls in both New York and the United States, so it draws a crowd. New York State Route 59 is a common way to get here, so you'll likely hit a lot of traffic even if this isn't your destination. As far as accidents go, collisions are common at the exits and entrances of the NYS Thruway. These entry and exit points are poorly designed and have confusing signage, so these challenges further impede traffic. U.S. Route 6 in New York U.S. Route 6 spans over 400 miles from Pennsylvania to Ohio, and nearly 78 miles of it occurs in New York. There's a mere mile stretch of this road along the Yorktown and Cortlandt border that gets particularly backed up between 7 and 9 a.m. Even though builders eventually expanded this road to include four lanes, it remains the source of heavy traffic. This road is common for people traveling to different states, so you may be able to avoid it if you're staying in New York. You might be able to hop onto NY 6N, which is an alternative route to U.S. Route 6 in New York. It travels through Westchester County and other areas and is often less congested. The team at Bill Volz Westchester commits to helping our customers get around as safely as possible. If you're looking for a new reliable vehicle, browse our inventory of new or certified pre-owned vehicles. You can also contact us to get in touch with someone on our team. All our staff members are knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to help you find the perfect vehicle you can use to get around Westchester.

Continuing our theme of highlighting local restaurants, this week we are going with some of Westchester County's best fine dining restaurants. With a team of local residents and great customers, we are eager to share some of Westchester, NY's trendiest spots. Below, you can explore some of our favorite fine dining spots to visit. Here at Bill Volz Westchester, we live and breathe luxury. You can easily learn this by visiting our dealership and viewing our inventory of Jeep Cherokees and Chrysler 300s that are ready for you to drive. Mulino's of Westchester Mulino's of Westchester is an upscale Italian restaurant that's a short 10-minute walk from Pavilion Mall. When you walk in, the atmosphere is sure to impress you. Art deco light fixtures hang from the ceiling to create a vintage environment that calls 1930s France to mind. There are also beautiful floral upholstered chairs and white tablecloths to further enhance the restaurant's ambiance. The restaurant's menu is also impressive, as there are many dishes to order. You can start off with a delicious appetizer like the Spiedino a la Romana, which is a house-made mozzarella loaf with capers, anchovies, and olives in your choice of a white or red wine sauce. This bread pairs well with various wines from France, America, and Italy. You can order wine by the glass or by the bottle, depending on if you come in a group or not. Mulino's of Westchester offers some rare blends, some of which have been aging since the 20th century. When it comes time to order your main course, you may have trouble picking. There are various pasta dishes, including the Gnocchi Mulino and the Penne Arrabbiata if you're looking for a true Italian experience. There are also chicken- and fish-based dishes if you're looking for something a bit different. We personally recommend the Cernia Marechario, which is a Florida red snapper sauteed in light tomato sauce with a side of New Zealand clams. Even if you normally don't order dessert at restaurants, we don't recommend skipping this part of your meal at Mulino's of Westchester. There are several homemade menu items, including the Sicilian Style Cannoli and the Mulino's Italian Cheesecake. We also recommend the Florida Seedless Oranges with Grand Marnier, which you can watch the chefs make right by your table. Blue Hill Farm Blue Hill Farm is a classy establishment in Pocantico Hills. Inside, you'll find classy white tablecloths, expansive ceilings, and oversized booths t hat provide comfortable seating. You can get a four, five, or eight-course meal, so be sure to arrive with an empty stomach. While there's no set menu, some foods that the staff may serve you include lamb, zucchini blossoms, and soft-shell crab. If you're looking for a classy beverage, the bar has plenty of options available. You can order from various imported beers, sakes, cocktails, and wines. If you want more of a personalized experience, you can rent out the establishment's private dining room for a few hours. This room seats up to 14 people and overlooks Blue Hill Farm's herb garden, which provides a gorgeous view as you dine. Xaviar's Xaviar's is a high-end restaurant that sits on a pier on the Hudson River. The entire restaurant is glass-enclosed to provide every patron with spectacular views. You may choose indoor or outdoor seating, which is great for enjoying a meal regardless of the weather or your current mood. While the restaurant primarily focuses on offering dinner, you can come in on Friday afternoon for lunch and Sunday afternoon for brunch. When you sit down during dinner hours, the menu options might overwhelm you at first. One of our favorite selections is the grilled swordfish, which comes with leaf spinach, a baby Yukon potato, and soy mirin glaze. If you want to step away from seafood, you can get something like the classic beef wellington. This dish comes with wild mushrooms and foie gras duxelles. No matter what you get as your main course, we highly recommend giving the side dishes more than a quick glance. All the sides at Xaviar's are great additions to any meal you order. For instance, you can get the steamed jumbo asparagus that comes with a creamy hollandaise sauce. Other memorable sides include the creamed spinach, the truffled potato puree, and the chive popovers. Red Hat on the River Red Hat on the River is a fine-dining restaurant that's been in business since 2003. The waterfront building in Irvington comfortably seats 120 guests at a time. The building, which was once a factory, has existed for over 100 years. It has undergone extensive renovations to create a modern, welcoming environment, but the establishment still has undertones of its rustic charm. The restaurant describes itself as a modern French restaurant, but it also serves familiar new American fare that's hard to resist. For instance, you can start your dining experience with a shareable appetizer like the avocado chimichurri toast and the lemon aioli zucchini sticks. You'll see the restaurant's French roots jump out in its entrees, as it offers menu items like the pan-seared French cut chicken breast and the short rib bourguignon. La Cremaillere La Cremaillere is a high-end restaurant in Bedford that lives in what was once a farmhouse, and it also has its own wine cellar. The chefs focus on serving classic French cuisine, although they also incorporate some European dishes into the menu. One of the most delicious items is the Long Island Duck Breast A L'Orange, which comes with orange-infused celery root, celery root puree, and duck jus. You can also get the pan-seared diver scallops that come with fine herbs, asparagus, and lemon beurre blanc. Don't be shy about getting dessert, as you may choose from options like the meyer lemon parfait, the chocolate souffle, and the creme brulee. If you're looking to arrive at one of these Westchester restaurants in style, consider reaching out to discuss getting a new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicle. All our staff members are friendly and helpful, and they can help you secure the best deal possible. You can fill out our contact form to get started or visit our dealership in person to test ride any vehicle that catches your eye.

Inside your engine, there are several belts and hoses that can wear down over time and might need to be replaced. These parts are made of durable, long-lasting plastic and rubber but can deteriorate from heat and pressure. Thankfully, these components are relatively easy and cheap to replace, so keeping an eye on your belts and hoses can prevent damage to your engine's more expensive components. To help you learn more about what the belts and hoses in your engine do, and to provide you with information about how often you should replace them, our staff put together this overview. What Are Engine Belts? Engine belts are strips of rubber that connect different components of your car's engine. Depending on the type of car you drive, your engine might have multiple different belts or a single, long belt known as the serpentine belt. Most modern cars use a single serpentine belt to connect many of your vehicle's important systems like the alternator, engine water pump, power steering pump, and more. The serpentine belt uses the engine's power to operate these systems, so if yours breaks, it can cause damage to many different functions. Older vehicles tend to have multiple different belts, known as V-belts. Unlike serpentine belts that connect multiple different systems, V-belts typically affect only one part. Regardless of what kind of engine your car has, understanding how the different belts work together to keep your vehicle operating is important. If you begin to notice issues with things like power steering, and air conditioning, or if your engine starts to overheat, a faulty belt might be the culprit. What Are Engine Hoses? Just like belts, engine hoses are durable components that are made of rubber or plastic. These hoses transfer important liquids to the different parts of your engine, and are vitally important for the proper functioning of your vehicle. Some of the most commonly known hoses are radiator hoses, which carry coolant to and from your engine. These are built to withstand the extreme heat and pressure that comes from transferring hot material out of your engine block, but over time, they can degrade. If your car is experiencing problems in hot weather, or if your check engine light comes on, it could be an indication that your radiator hoses are not properly distributing the heat in your engine. Some other examples of hoses are heater hoses, which transfer coolant to and from the heater core. If the heat in your car isn't working, it could be related to a problem with one of these hoses. The hydraulic braking and power steering systems in your car also rely on a system of hoses, so problems with these features could result from hose deterioration. Why Is It Important To Maintain Your Belts and Hoses? Even though the belts and hoses in your engine are built of highly durable material, they can still degrade faster than some of the metal components. When these rubber pieces break down or stop functioning correctly, it can damage the other parts of the engine that might be more costly to repair. Performing frequent maintenance on your engine's belts and hoses can prevent damage to your engine that could end up costing you thousands, so it's crucial for you to have your car inspected every couple of months. When Should You Replace Your Belts and Hoses? Understanding when to replace these rubber parts is an important part of owning a car. One of the best practices to ensure that your engine is in top condition is to simply follow the manufacturer's recommendation. Most parts manufacturers will issue instructions that recommend you have your parts inspected every 50,000 to 60,000 miles, or after a certain number of months. Even if you don't notice any issues with your car's performance, we urge you to follow these instructions and have your car inspected when the time comes. If it isn't time for an inspection but you're still noticing issues with your engine's performance, it could be a good idea to pop the hood and take a look yourself. Depending on the type of car you have, you might be able to visually inspect the belts and hoses. When looking at your engine's belt, keep an eye out for cracking, blistering, or tearing in the material. If you notice any of these signs or frayed fibers on your belt, it could be a sign that it's time for a replacement. When examining your engine's hoses, you should look for similar signs of wear on the rubber. If you can reach these hoses, you can see how they feel when squeezed. A proper engine hose should feel sturdy and slightly pliable. If your hose is mushy or brittle, it's possible that it's begun to break down due to the changes in temperature that it's subjected to. You should also keep an eye out for bulges in the rubber that could result from exposure to high pressure. How To Replace Your Belts and Hoses Once you've found a problematic belt or hose, you should immediately replace it before your engine gets damaged. Since these components are crucial to the proper functioning of your engine, we highly recommend that you take your car to a certified professional rather than trying to install it on your own. Our service department can inspect your car to identify any belts or hoses that should be replaced and then perform the replacement quickly and easily. Trying to replace these components without the proper tools could lead to more damage, so before you do anything, please consult a professional. This was a brief overview of the importance of properly maintaining the belts and hoses in your engine. If you have any questions about the condition of your engine or want to schedule an inspection with our team, please give us a call. Here at Bill Volz Westchester, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for our customers, so please stop by today.

The Hudson River Valley is one of the most historic regions in the Northeastern United States. With so many notable figures, historic places, and important events tied to this area, it's no secret why people from across the country visit this region of New York year after year. Whether you're an American history buff looking to visit historic battlefields or a supernatural enthusiast wanting to see the mysticism of Sleepy Hollow in person, the Hudson Valley has something for everyone. With so many impressive sites to see throughout the area, it can be overwhelming for tourists and residents alike to choose which local excursions they want to take part in. Luckily, our team at Bill Volz's Westchester compiled a list of the top four historic sites in the Hudson Valley. With this guide, you and your loved ones can feel confident that you've visited the best of what the historic Hudson River Valley offers. Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate Kykuit, also known as the Rockefeller Estate, is part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation due to its prominence within the Rockefeller family over the past 100 years. Kykuit began as the home of John D. Rockefeller, who founded the Standard Oil company and would establish one of the most influential and wealthy families in American history. Kykuit has been home to four generations of Rockefellers, solidifying its spot as one of the most important and visited sites in the Hudson Valley. At Kykuit, you can take a tour of the massive estate's 40 rooms, beautiful outdoor gardens, a vast art collection, and unbeatable views of the Hudson Valley. Kykuit has a selection of excursions, including classic, landmark, and time-saver tours, which cost $28 per adult and $26 for seniors, students, and children. For the grand tour of the property, tickets are $45 for all non-members. Kykuit is open for certain months of the year, usually between May and September, with special tour dates on holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day. The U.S. Military Academy at West Point One of the most visited attractions in Hudson Valley is the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, located in West Point, New York. West Point is the oldest military academy in the country and has had various notable alumni, including former presidents Grant and Eisenhower. A trip to West Point isn't complete without a visit to the restored Fort Putnam, a former Continental Army garrison during the Revolutionary War located right on the school's campus. The West Point Museum is filled with military history and artifacts, including collections of weapons, artwork, uniforms, and other memorabilia. First-time visitors may prefer to take a guided bus tour. They can visit all of the campus's most iconic attractions while learning about the area's history and importance within the historic U.S. military system. Make sure you stop by the visitors center and gift shop to get the most out of your time and take home some West Point souvenirs. Philipsburg Manor Just a short way from Kykuit is Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, a former milling and trading complex that housed 23 enslaved people of African descent throughout the 18th century. Frederick Philipse, a Dutch carpenter, came to what was then the Dutch colony of New Netherland in 1653 and came to own 52,000 acres of modern-day Westchester County. When the British assumed control of the colony and renamed it New York, Philipse aligned with them, and his business flourished. By 1750, the Manor housed hundreds of tenant farmers in addition to its nearly two dozen African slaves. A visit to Philipsburg Manor involves walking through the property's various sections, like the working gristmill. Learn about Caesar, an enslaved miller, and his work on the complex. Take a tour throughout the main house and gaze in awe at the collection of antique artifacts from the 18th century and earlier. The activity center is another great place to visit, where you can learn about the day-to-day routines and labor of the manor's many inhabitants. Visiting Philipsburg Manor can provide anyone with a touching and informative lesson on the Hudson River Valley's history. Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site The last must-see spot on our list of the top historical attractions in the Hudson River Valley is the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site, located in Stony Point, New York. History enthusiasts can appreciate this site's direct link to the Revolutionary War. Stony Point was the location of the American raid on what was formerly a British stronghold led by General Anthony Wayne on July 16th, 1779. Today, the site is home to a military museum where visitors can view Revolutionary War-era artifacts and equipment collections. Stony Point Battlefield is a historic site in New York due to its importance in the outcome of the Revolutionary War. The site also has a lighthouse dating back to 1826, with the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse on the Hudson River. The property also has various outdoor picnic areas and an optional walking tour. Some of the entertainment and informative sessions at the site occur through historical reenactments, where actors highlight different aspects of military life in the 18th century. Admission to the Stony Point Battlefield is free for the public. So, there you have it. That's our list of the top four historic sites in the Hudson River Valley region of New York. We hope this article helps you learn about the unique historical sites in the area to decide where to visit next. Did we leave out one of your favorite local spots? Have a suggestion for a future article about things to do in the Hudson Valley? Feel free to contact us at Bill Volz's Westchester, and our team members will be more than happy to work with you and answer any of your questions.

Low tire pressure can be a nuisance, especially if it becomes a regular occurrence. Heading to the gas station or auto shop every month just to put some air into your tires can be very time-consuming and may lead to further complications in the future. It's essential to make sure your tires have the right amount of air to function properly and keep you safe on the road. When you suspect your tires have a slow leak, it's crucial to diagnose the issue and get it fixed by a professional as soon as possible. Not sure how to tell if your Chrysler has a slow tire leak? Our team at Bill Volz's Westchester has compiled a list of frequently asked questions about slow tire leaks and some helpful answers. With this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to identify tire leaks on any Chrysler vehicle. What Is a Slow Tire Leak? A slow tire leak occurs when a car's tire loses small amounts of air pressure consistently, which can lead to other complications such as flat tires, blowouts, or inefficient steering of the vehicle over time. Slow tire leaks are relatively common, especially for those driving in industrial areas where driving over metal debris is more likely. Most newly manufactured cars have tire pressure monitoring systems that alert the driver when a tire loses at least 25% air pressure, making it easier to avoid more complex issues in the future. Even if you have this new technology, identifying a slow leak can still be a challenge. When a driver sees their tire pressure light come on, their first instinct might be to take the vehicle to a gas station to pump in new air manually. If your vehicle rarely has air pressure problems, this situation can be completely normal and not indicative of any more complex issues with the car's systems. When drivers have to pump new air frequently, they might have a slow leak instead. This situation often requires additional maintenance performed by a professional. What Causes Tire Leaks? There are three main causes of slow tire leaks, all of which can go unnoticed for some time before you notice the physical signs: Punctured tire: A punctured tire can result from a variety of factors, but usually happens after driving over pieces of metal debris, like nails. This debris wedges itself into your tire, slowly letting out air each time the car's weight pushes onto the tire itself. Damaged valve stem: The valve stem is the small attachment on your wheel where you can add, remove, or check your car's tire pressure. The valve stem can corrode over time, removing the seal that keeps the air inside the tires and leading to a slow leak. Damaged wheel: Another common cause of slow tire leaks is damage to the wheel itself.  Impacts from riding over curbs, speed bumps, or potholes can all deform the metal of the wheel, causing tires to fit less snugly in the wheel and a slow leak to form in the space between them. What Are The Signs of a Slow Tire Leak In Your Chrysler? When you suspect your Chrysler has a slow tire leak, here are some of the primary signs to look out for: Tire pressure light: If your tire pressure monitoring system light comes on frequently, it may be a sign of a slow tire leak. This is especially true if you regularly add air to all your tires and still notice the tire pressure light on a regular basis. Poor steering: If your car has low tire pressure because of a slow leak, this can lead to poor maneuvering of the vehicle to no fault of the driver. The lack of air in the tires can make the car sway, making it harder to turn effectively. Flat tires: Another sign of a slow tire leak is frequent flat tires, especially if they occur after you park the car for a long time. If you consistently have flat tires even after putting in new air — or replacing them altogether — this could be a sign of a wheel-related maintenance issue causing the slow tire leak. What Should You Do When You Find a Tire Leak? When you find a tire leak on your Chrysler, your first point of action should be to contact your dealership. Stop driving the vehicle immediately and inspect your tires for any obvious punctures or damage. If you find the source of a puncture, you can replace it with a space or use a sealant product to buy your tire sometime before bringing the car in for a professional evaluation. Afterward, call or make an appointment online with our service department to schedule a time slot to bring the car in so our expert technicians can repair the leak. Why Should You Fix a Tire Leak at a Dealership? Whether your car has a tire leak, faulty light, or low oil, getting it serviced at your Chrysler dealership ensures it gets all the necessary repairs. The technicians at our dealerships are factory-trained and have access to the official parts created by the manufacturer. Therefore, they have access to resources and information that standard auto mechanics simply don't have. When you take your car to a Chrysler dealership, you can feel confident that you're receiving the best possible service and care for your vehicle. So, there you have it. We've answered the most frequently asked questions for identifying a slow tire leak on your Chrysler. We hope you found this article useful and can apply the information you learned the next time you suspect low tire pressure or a leak. Did we leave out one of your questions about diagnosing slow tire leaks? Want to learn more about proper Chrysler maintenance and care? Feel free to contact us today at Bill Volz's Westchester in Cortlandt, New York, and a member of our dedicated staff will be more than happy to answer your questions.  You can also call our service center at 888-711-9927.

The town of Cortlandt in Westchester County, New York, contains residential villages, hamlets, and a variety of historical attractions, from museums and manor houses to modern art exhibits. These attractions feature a variety of art, landmarks, and cultural showcases that you can enjoy on your own or during group outings. Whether you plan on visiting Westchester County or are a resident, planning a trip to these museums and attractions in and around Cortlandt could be a fun and informative experience for you and your friends. Van Cortlandt House Museum Via Flickr by mtchlra | CC by 2.0 The Van Cortlandt House Museum is located in the southwestern portion of Van Cortlandt Park and is the oldest surviving building in the Bronx. With a collection of historic arts and furniture, the Van Cortlandt House Museum gives visitors a view of how the Van Cortlandt family lived during the 18th century. The exterior of the building, constructed with brick and rough-hewn stone, features original keystones and carvings reminiscent of European-style architecture. You can tour the various rooms of the prominent Van Cortlandt House Museum and explore all three stories to see all that it has to offer. The surrounding grounds of the Van Cortlandt House Museum include the second-largest park in New York, which allows you to experience the grandness of the entire estate. Within the feet is a Colonial Revival herb garden for you to walk around and smell the fragrant freshness of fruit trees and flowering bulbs. The Van Cortlandt House Museum offers self-guided tours, along with online educational resources to guide you as you look and learn about the history of the house and its land. The Armour-Stiner Octagon House The Armour-Stiner Octagon House is a historic home with a vast landscape designed in the fashion of ancient classical temples. A prominent feature of the Armour-Stiner Octagon House is the octagonal dome as the house's roof, which is a replica of the Tempietto in Rome, designed by Donato Bramante in 1502. The exterior of the house and its grounds reflect the original style implemented by Joseph Stiner in 1872 to create a classical and whimsical appearance that visually engages the home's visitors. Inside the house are original decorations and furnishings from the 1870s. With various elaborately designed and decorated rooms, some of the most important areas include the greenhouse, studio, and Egyptian Revival Room. The Armour-Stiner Octagon House is open for tours for limited times throughout the year and also offers its space for film or photography projects. With all of the intricate details of the house, you can find something new and intriguing no matter how many times you've visited. The rich history and thorough preservation make the Armour-Stiner Octagon House a must-see attraction. Hudson Valley MOCA The Hudson Valley MOCA is a contemporary art center that showcases exhibitions and programs featuring international artists. Within its 12,000 square feet of exhibition space, artists demonstrate installations, sculptures, and forms of musical art. The Hudson Valley MOCA aims to educate and connect communities through artistic efforts and collaborative projects. One of the Hudson Valley MOCA's notable collaborative art projects is its Writing the Walls performance, which combines written word, spoken word, and visual art mediums to create an enhanced experience that allows you to absorb the art and understand the voice behind it fully. With rotating exhibitions, the Hudson Valley MOCA offers new educational and cultural experiences with every visit. The Hudson Valley MOCA also conducts virtual events, open discussions with artists, and art workshops to provide you with in-depth and engaging receptions. Some of their drop-in events include creating paper portraits, yarn pictures, or unity quilts. The Hudson Valley MOCA also collaborates with other local organizations to present limited-time community projects for you to explore when you have the chance. Hudson River Museum The Hudson River Museum is the most important cultural institution in Westchester Country and houses art galleries, a planetarium, history and science exhibits, and a theater. This museum features an extensive collection of art that showcases its local heritage with works from the Hudson River School. The Hudson River School highlights a romanticist-inspired aesthetic established in the mid-19th century with landscape art that captures the Hudson River and its accompanying valley as it was during that time. These artworks provide viewers with a snapshot of history with what these natural landscapes used to look like. Another part of the Hudson River Museum is the Glenview Mansion, with six rooms that reflect the style of its era through period decorations and furniture. The rooms within the Hudson River Museum feature original carved woodwork with extraordinary details and intricate styling representative of late Victorian architecture. In addition to the historical offerings of the Hudson River Museum, you can purchase tickets for the planetarium exhibits with different shows and audio commentary for varying age groups. Visiting the Hudson River Museum offers numerous activities to satisfy various interests and age levels for an eventful experience. These are some of the best museums in Westchester County, New York, near the town of Cortlandt. Visiting these locations and taking part in tours in and around Cortlandt can be a fun experience for an individual or group trip. If you've been to these locations before, tell us how your experience was and whether you have any recommendations for first-time visitors. If there are any museums or other historical attractions we might have missed, let us know, and we will be sure to add them to our list. At Bill Volz Westchester, we are committed to serving our community and supporting local businesses, from museums to tourist attractions. Along with our commitment to the community, we are dedicated to helping you find the right vehicle at the right price. While in the Westchester County area, stop by our Bill Volz Westchester location to see our inventory. You can reach out to us in advance to schedule an appointment or drop in to test-drive our massive selection of new cars and get information on some of our specials.

Oil maintenance is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly throughout your vehicle's life. With regular checks and changes, you can ensure a safe and smooth drive on highways and city streets. Let's look at some of the essential details of oil maintenance. How Often Should People Change Their Oil? Your oil change intervals can vary depending on the year of your car, model, and engine type. Generally, it would help if you got an oil change every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. Here is some additional guidance on older and newer cars: Older Cars You might not have oil change sensors with older cars, forcing you to track the mileage to know when to bring it in. You might want to get more frequent oil changes if you drive in severe conditions, like stop-and-go traffic, regular short trips, or extreme climates. For regular driving conditions, the standard for old cars is typically every 3,000 miles or three months, whichever comes first. Newer Cars Newer cars often have sensors to indicate when your car needs an oil change. These might gauge your mileage to determine when your car is ready or monitor actual driving performance to alert you. On average, these vehicles require a change every 5,000 miles. When you receive an oil change, the technician resets your oil-monitoring system to alert you the next time your vehicle is ready accurately. Even if you get less frequent oil changes, you might still check your oil levels and add more in to ensure proper lubrication and avoid wear and tear. What Type of Oil Is Best? There are four main oil types available during a change, including fully synthetic, synthetic blend, high-mileage, and conventional. Full synthetic is the most common in newer cars, especially high-performance vehicles. This can be pricier, but you might not have to change your oil as frequently. Synthetic blends are familiar with SUVs and trucks that carry heavy loads. It can be best for stop-and-go traffic, long drives, and extreme weather. If you have put 75,000 miles or more on your vehicle, you might consider the high-mileage oil to prevent leaks or burns. This can help increase your engine's lifespan. The last type, conventional, is familiar with older vehicles. Though it has fewer protection benefits than synthetic, this low-cost option can still smoothly help your engine run. What Type of Viscosity Is Right? Viscosity is how resistant your oil is to flow. There are two main types of viscosity you can find: High Viscosity High-viscosity oils are thicker and can help you fill gaps between different engine parts. Sometimes, it's more challenging to move through the engine, which causes engine wear or decreases your vehicle's fuel efficiency. This type of oil gets thicker in colder temperatures. Low Viscosity Low-viscosity oil is fragile. Some newer engines require this for minimizing friction and improving your vehicle's fuel economy. You might add unnecessary wear and tear to your vehicle if it's too low, as the oil can become thinner with additional heat or conditions. This type of oil can also help transfer heat to different components in the engine easier. When choosing the proper viscosity could depend on a few things. First, you should always check your manufacturer's specifications in the owner's manual to see what they recommend. This can help ensure any issues fall under your vehicle's warranty. Driving style can also affect your oil. City driving can mean you use a higher viscosity to handle more stop-and-go traffic, while highway driving can mean you use a lower density to keep oil flowing. Since weather affects thickness, you might choose a lower viscosity in cold temperatures and a higher viscosity to handle extreme heat. Why Change Oil Regularly? There are many reasons to get your oil changed regularly, we listed a few of those reasons below. Better Gas Mileage With proper oil maintenance, you can maintain a better gas mileage on the road. This is especially true if you drive long distances frequently, as your engine constantly uses oil. Without regular changes, you might fill up your tank more often than usual. Avoiding Wear and Tear If you neglect your oil changes, the quality of your engine can decrease as the components might not function as intended. Sludge and dirt can build up in your engine, and each time you get an oil change, the technician cleans this up. With a clean engine, you can safely, securely, and efficiently with less damage to the engine. Longer Engine Life Car engines are often effective for about 150,000 miles or more. Although there are some unforeseen events that can affect the life of an engine, keeping it clean and well-maintained can keep it running longer. More Lubrication Perhaps the most important reason why it's important to perform regular oil changes is to keep your engine well lubricated. Engines can get hot, which can thin your oil. Though this can help it move between components in an engine, it can also cause overheating. A dried engine can also cause unnecessary wear and tear and affect the engine's lifespan. Why Change Oil at a Dealership? It's possible to change your oil at several locations, including your local mechanic or the dealership. There are several key benefits to changing it at a dealership. For one, you can receive specialized service from technicians familiar with your vehicles. This expertise can be invaluable in finding any additional issues with your car and ensuring they use the proper oil. Another major benefit is that you can also accomplish other important tasks if you have any recall or warranty updates to make on your vehicle. Dealerships also keep a record of your vehicle maintenance, so this can be helpful when monitoring vehicle health over its lifespan. You might also get a loaner vehicle to pass the time if the oil change takes time or if you need additional repairs. Now that you have all the details about oil maintenance, consider contacting the service department at Bill Volz Westchester today to schedule an oil change. While you're there, check out the rebates section for any potential deals on service.

If you live in eastern New York, you're no stranger to hot and cold weather and lots of precipitation. Even the driest months in Westchester still have more rainfall than many other locations in the country, with March, June, and December being the months with the rainiest and snowiest weather. When buying a CDJR car to drive on Long Island, it's essential to consider if your choice can handle the island's heavy precipitation and snowfall, plus protect you and your passengers during any weather event. For example, the Wrangler can help you maintain traction and navigate in icy conditions because of its four-wheel-drive capabilities. It's al o important to consider a car's fuel economy, as cold weather can lower your gas mileage. Read on to discover some of the best CDJR vehicles for driving in Long Island, based on their weather-resistant features, safety components, and performance on slick, icy roads. 2022 Ram 1500 The Ram 1500 is an excellent truck for Long Island weather because it offers traction and control in slick and icy conditions. It's a full-sized pickup that provides a luxurious ride and outstanding efficiency. You can use this truck to haul and tow things, which can be a plus for the summer months when you may want to tow a boat or other watercraft to a nearby beach. For example, the Limited trim package has a four-corner active level air suspension system that can balance extra weight from hauling heavy loads. The standard 2022 Ram 1500 offers a mile per gallon rating of up to 21 in the city and 29 on the highway. The Eco diesel option can also offer a fuel economy upgrade at 22 in the city and 33 on the road, which may help protect your gas mileage during the coldest months of winter. 2022 Dodge Durango The 2022 Dodge Durango is an excellent choice for driving around eastern New York because of its four-wheel drive and off-roading capabilities, which may be helpful when driving over sandy terrain at the beach. While this model of SUV may not be as rugged as others, it can still perform well in demanding driving situations. For example, its anti-lock braking, and all-wheel drive systems can help drivers stay safe in icy weather, giving your tires more traction and preventing you and your passengers from skidding on slick roads. The 2022 Durango also has an adaptive suspension system that allows the SUV to provide a smooth and comfortable riding experience during rain and snow events. The vehicle's rain-sensing windshield wipers can also identify droplets automatically, helping you see the road clearly on your journey. The standard 2022 Dodge Durango offers a mile per gallon rating of up to 19 in the city and 26 on the highway. 2022 Chrysler Pacifica The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica is a family-focused vehicle that offers intuitive safety technology. This can make it a great model for driving on Long Island, as it helps both passengers and drivers feel safe during trips. Some safety features that can be helpful during turbulent weather include lane departure warnings, electronic stability control, brake assistance, and comprehensive airbags in the passengers' front, rear, and side areas. Its automatic all-wheel-drive system allows this van to provide drivers with more control and traction during stricter driving conditions. The minivan has the unique ability to transfer all the torque to the rear wheels, so the vehicle offers the highest level of traction. This can be an excellent minivan for all-weather driving. You can use preventative maintenance like oil changes, cabin air filter changes, windshield wiper replacements, tire rotations and alignments, and brake adjustments. The standard 2022 Chrysler Pacifica offers a mile per gallon rating of up to 19 in the city and 28 on the highway. Jeep Wrangler The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offers an all-weather floor mat and drainage plugs, which allow you to keep the vehicle clean and dry after adventures in the snow and rain. It supplies the driver with four-wheel drive capabilities and a V-6 engine for managing difficult roads and terrain in snowy and rainy weather. The Wrangler offers a mile per gallon rating of up to 17 in the city and 23 on the highway. The 2022 Jeep Wrangler also can remove the car's doors, top, and windshield, which can be beneficial during Long Island's summer month as its temperatures can reach a high of 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The 202  Unlimited Sport and Unlimited Willys trims also have high-powered air-condition systems and automatic temperature control, keeping you cool as you drive. 2022 Ram 2500 Though the 2022 Ram 1500 is an excellent truck for managing the Long Island climate, the 2022 Ram 2500 offers more towing, hauling, and power than the 1500 model, which can make it more capable in the Long Island rain and snow. To mana e heavy precipitation and freezing temperatures, for example, the Ram 2500 provides front and rear climate control outlets. It also offers you an adaptive forward lighting system with LED capabilities, which can help you see the road during harsh weather. With 4x4 capabilities and high ground clearance in each trim package, the 2022 Ram 2500 can power through harsh conditions, including snowy terrain and rain-slick roads. Though his truck is large, it comes with driver-assisting technology that helps you drive and park, including active braking and blind-spot monitoring. While t e Ram 2500 doesn't have information available on its fuel economy yet, it can hold a tank of up to 32 gallons. 2022 Jeep Renegade Though the 2022 Jeep Renegade is smaller and more lightweight than other Jeep models, it still offers the same off-roading abilities that many people expect from a Jeep, making it great for tackling Long Island terrains during harsh weather. Renegades also feature wide safety measures, including lane-keeping and cross-traffic alerts. These f features can be beneficial with limited visibility because of rainy and snowy conditions. The com act size of this SUV offers a blend of storage and ease-of-parking that can also help you drive in Long Island when roads are wet or icy. For a compact SUV, the Renegade has an excellent towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds. The standard Renegade pulls with 210 lb-ft of torque and 177 horsepower, which can be great for towing summer or winter sporting equipment in Long Island. The Jeep  Renegade offers a mile per gallon rating of up to 24 in the city and 32 on the highway. Bill Volz Westchester's list of six great options for vehicles that can tackle Long Island's temperamental weather, including the heavy rain and snowfall. You have many options for new weather-safe vehicles, from tricks to compact SUVs. Did we mention your top pick for Long Island driving? Is there another model you think may perform better? If so,  c ontact us online or call us at 914-966-6133.

If you're planning a trip to Cortland, New York, or you're a local looking for a new dining experience, check out one of the many diverse eateries in the area. In Cortland, you can sample dishes from around the world and find a meal that fits your preferences whether you like Mediterranean cuisine, classic American entrees, or a brick-oven pizza. Check out our recommendations for restaurants around this city. The Community Restaurant Since 1930, The Community Restaurant has taken pride in offering high-quality dishes crafted with local ingredients and providing excellent customer service, so stop by this spot if you're interested in tasty Mediterranean meals and a vibrant dining experience. Their menu includes a variety of starters and small sharable dishes, including stuffed mushrooms, sticky honey and harissa, falafel, and a feta and watermelon salad. For your main course, choose from their Greek and Italian entree options, like Greek souvlaki skewers and wild mushroom pesto stuffed pasta. You can also choose an item from their steak and seafood menu, featuring a 16-ounce New York strip steak and their broiled seafood platter. If you're in the mood for a lighter meal instead, you can try one of their gyros or sandwich options, served with fries and a pickle. Hairy Tony's If you're looking for a gastropub that prioritizes using fresh ingredients and updates its menu seasonally to ensure that they only offer high-quality dishes, check out Hairy Tony's on Main Street. Although their specials typically change weekly, you can rely on a large variety of sharable dishes and starters, including tacos, boneless wings, nachos, littleneck clams, and both sweet potato and shoestring fries. They also offer several soups and salads if you and your companions are looking for something smaller. Hairy Tony's also offers vegan menu options, sure to accommodate a wide variety of guests. Their larger entrees include various bowls, pasta dishes, and meat and seafood options, like scallops, shepard's pie, and sirloin steak. You can choose from multiple options, including wraps, burgers, sandwiches, and tacos. Be sure to leave room for dessert afterward because their menu includes tasty treats like carrot cake, a brownie sundae, chocolate caramel cheesecake, plus a rotating seasonal dessert updated weekly. Pita Gourmet If you're in the mood for authentic Middle Eastern food, check out Pita Gourmet. Their menu includes classic Lebanese dishes and focuses on seasonal ingredients, enticing herbs and seasonings, and robust flavors. Their appetizers include several dishes for you to enjoy or share with your loved ones, like baba gannush, labneh, and tabouleh, as well as their spinach pie and olive dish. Depending on what you're craving, you can select one of their classic platters or vegetarian platter for your main course, featuring items like spicy chicken breast, rolled cabbage, and grape leaves with meat. Alternatively, you can also order one of their Mediterranean pita wraps, which include a variety of fillings like gyros meat, chicken gyros, and falafel. Don't forget sides, as they also offer salads, soups, and rice. Bob's Barbeque Open only from late April until late October, Bob's Barbeque offers a selection of classic barbeque items, with their meats cooked over wood and charcoal at a low temperature over a long period of time to ensure maximum moisture and flavor. You can choose from beef, chicken, ribs, and pork dishes, including a quarter chicken, a half chicken, and pulled chicken or pork sandwiches. They also offer a brisket sandwich and small, large, or extra-large portions of ribs. If you're unsure about what dish you want, try one of their combos and sample several types of meat. You can also choose from their large variety of side dishes, like baked beans, sweet corn, potato salad, and macaroni salad. In the mood for something sweet instead? Try one of their desserts, including key lime pie, cheesecake, homemade brownies, and assorted cookies. Central City Bar and Grill Central City Bar and Grill is a great place to relax with friends, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and sip on craft beer, as they have over 30 options. The restaurant's menu includes various types of food from multiple regions around the world, so you'll be sure to find what you're looking for, whether you're in the mood for a salad, sandwich, wrap, or soup. You can start your meal by selecting dishes from their appetizer menu, like a chicken quesadilla, a basket of beer-battered onion rings, soft pretzel sticks, and a basket of fries. If you're hungry for a sandwich, try their brisket melt, Italian dip, or buttermilk chicken sammy. Other tasty options include their ahi tuna salad, cheeseburger wrap, aged New York strip steak, and rigatoni ala vodka. Brix Pubaria Stop by Brix Pubaria and enjoy a variety of brick oven pizzas, drink options, and vegan dishes. No matter your dietary preferences or restrictions, you're sure to find a meal that fits your preferences. Their pub-bar menu features a large selection of items alongside pizza, including salads, pasta, wings, wraps, and sandwiches, You can begin your meal by choosing from their long list of small bites and dips, including buffalo chicken egg rolls, house-made mozzarella sticks, French onion soup, and nachos. If you want to see what all the hype is about, consider the barbeque chicken, Caprese, or pesto brick oven pizza. Handhelds, like wraps and sandwiches, include a Nashville hot chicken sandwich, or the anchor wrap, featuring breaded chicken, medium wing sauce, and bacon. You can also check out their extensive dessert menu, complete with items like a cheesecake calzone, gluten-free flourless torte, and vegan cheesecake. Well, there's our list of must-visit eateries in and around Cortlandt, New York. Did we include all the local favorites, or are there some restaurants missing from our recommendation? If you think there's a restaurant that others need to try, contact us and we'll add it to our list! You can also meet our friendly staff members, who are eager to suggest locations and discuss your options if you're new to the area.