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Mark your calendar: the fair is coming! The 2019 Montana State Fair begins on Friday, August 9. It closes on Saturday, August 17. Before you pack the car and head for Great Falls, bring this information with you. It'll help you decide how to enjoy your time at the fair. Save Money Enjoy your time at the fair while you save money. Buy a Valupass now, and you are covered the week of the event. The pass includes your general admission to three concerts, Supercross, and three nights of the rodeo. It also includes your fair ticket for the entire week. If you purchase the pass before July 1, it costs $64. If you buy it after July 1, the price increases to $69. If you buy the pass and can't use it one night, you can give to your friends or family to use. more Explore a Variety of Exhibits and Attractions Start your day at the fair by exploring exhibits for everyone. Check out some of the local artwork produced by adults and school children. Prepare for your jaw to drop when you see the size of some of the crops on display. Make time to visit a variety of vendors throughout the park. You can get information from your favorite community organization or even stock up on your favorite products. Bring your appetite to the fair. As you explore the exhibits, enjoy a taste of foods you only find at the fair. Indulge your sweet tooth in homemade ice cream or your desire for savory treats with a wide variety of fried foods. Spend the Night Enjoying a Show The fun doesn't end after a day of exploring the exhibits, rides, and attractions. Throughout the week there are nightly concerts and shows to entertain you. Keep in mind that many of the shows have an additional ticket price on top of your fair admission. The shows are spread out between four different stages. The Chelsea Plaza hosts Kelly McDonald throughout the week. The Rock Bottom Boys perform three shows a night on the Exchange Club Patio. If you are at The 4th Avenue Stage, enjoy the Mango and Dango theatrical circus through the week. Keep an eye out for Mango and Dango as they work through the fairgrounds as well. You may also see the Animal Cracker Conspiracy of high walkers strolling throughout the fairgrounds. The Rimrock Auto Arena stage hosts the main acts throughout the week. Opening night sees Restless Heart along with Blackhawk and Shenandoah. The next night take a trip back to the 1990s with 98 degrees. Current country fans will enjoy the music of Old Dominion on the third night. After three nights of concerts, there is a Supercross motorcycle event on Tuesday, August 13. Head for the grandstands to cheer on your favorite rider. If you would like some more traditional entertainment, check out the Yellowstone River Roundup PRCA Rodeo. This three-day event is located in the grandstands. It starts on August 15 and runs through the end of the fair. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes to explore the fairgrounds and plan plenty of time so you can enjoy your visit. Bring your camera to capture the shows, attractions, and family fun. Image by Tracy Elizabeth via cc by 2.0

Are you looking for an updated SUV that mixes comfort with style? Meet the 2020 Nissan Rouge Sport. Here is what to expect when the refreshed Rouge hits the showroom floor. Exterior 2020 is the year the Rouge Sport stands on its own. As you approach this newly refreshed vehicle,  you'll notice the new Vmotion grille and bumper. They are designed to give the  SUV a sporty look. The new hood helps the vehicle stand out on the road. The final front end upgrades revolve around the lights. Nissan is installing a new lighting package that includes LED daytime running lights. This means that no matter what the weather conditions, drivers can have a clear view of what is ahead of them. more A slow walk around the vehicle reveals an updated rear end to go with its refreshed front end. The new rear style is expected to include a lighting package to match the front end. Drivers also have a choice between new paint colors: Nitro Lime Metallic and Monarch Orange Metallic. There is also a new 19-inch aluminum alloy wheel choice to finish off the sporty exterior. Interior The interior upgrades for 2020 are meant to give drivers a smoother, more entertaining ride. The updated auto system includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections as standard equipment. Drivers have the option of upgrading the speakers to a Bose audio system. These new speakers will make drivers and passengers feel as if they are at a live concert while on the road. Safety The most significant upgrades to the 2020 Nissan Rouge Sport involves safety. The newest SUV includes essential safety features as standard equipment. The rear door alert system remains standard across all trims. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 is currently only available for SV and SL owners. It now becomes standard for every vehicle. This system includes automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. A rear automatic braking system gives drivers more control when conditions change quickly. The lane departure warning and a blind spot monitoring system are also part of this system. Rear cross traffic alert helps drivers as they are backing in or out of a parking spot. If something is moving behind the vehicle, drivers receive a warning so they can avoid impact. The high beam assist feature means drivers will not blind their fellow drivers. It senses when another vehicle is around and adjusts the high beams accordingly. Along with this upgrade comes the return of the Nissan ProPilot Assist. The available ProPilot Assist system helps drivers handle stressful driving conditions. It helps drivers maintain the center of their lane in close quarters, like driving through a construction zone. ProPIlot also reduces the stress on drivers in stop and go traffic as it can control the set speed and help maintain a safe driving distance no matter how crowded the road is. As we wait for the 2020 Rouge Sport to arrive, you can check out the current model by visiting Taylor's AutoMax. We look forward to answering questions you have.

Are you looking for a family-friendly sedan with a unique design for 2020? Meet the 2020 Nissan Versa. The car is ready to hit the road in the fall of 2019.  It is expected to have a new look inside and out. Body Style 2020 marks a new beginning for the Versa. It is only available as a sedan. The Versa hatchback no longer exists as of the end of 2019 production. more Engine Upgrades The new Versa is expected to have a stronger engine. It comes standard with a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. The engine creates 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. The car continues to include a five-speed manual transmission for drivers. It runs with an upgraded variable transmission to give drivers the smoothest ride possible. Exterior This subcompact car gains a unique rounded look to its exterior. It also picks up the Nissan V-Motion grille with a floating roof. The floating roof with the extended lines built into the car help create a unique look that helps it stands out on the road. Drivers have the choice of eight different unique paint colors including the eye-catching electric blue metallic, monarch orange metallic, and scarlet ember. The selection of paint helps drivers finish the new exterior look. Interior The interior upgrades for 2020 depend on the trim level the driver chooses. While some of the basic trims do not see much change, there are significant changes for trims like the SR.  The upgraded interior includes an improved 7-inch infotainment system. The larger screen helps drivers and front seat passengers make changes without taking their eyes off the road for a long time. Drivers enjoy technology upgrades like the available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections. The digital infotainment system shares the dash with an analog speedometer. The dashboard includes a traditional look for the gauges. Beyond the technology, drivers have the option of adding other creature comforts to the car. They include heated seats to make cold mornings more comfortable. There is also an option for automatic climate control to make sure the temperature remains comfortable inside, no matter what the weather is doing outside the car. Power windows are now standard equipment along with proximity entry and start. Safety 2020 sees the Versa gain some essential standard safety features from the Nissan Safety Shield suite. The new model includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. A new rear braking system helps bring the car to a controlled stop even under adverse weather and road conditions. The lane departure warning system and automatic high beams are also newly standardized safety features. Drivers who want even more control have the option of adding other features. These include a driver awareness monitor and adaptive cruise control. Nissan is holding many of the features for this design close to its vest. One thing is certain; the Versa is sure to appeal to a variety of demographics. It remains as comfortable in the city as it does on an open highway.

Are you looking for something to do this summer? Check out these upcoming events at the Four Seasons Arena. The month of July has something for everyone. Collective Soul Saturday, July 27 sees the high energy Collective Soul invade Four Seasons Arena. The band is celebrating 25 years on the road in 2019. The set list for this special tour is sure to include new songs from their album "Blood," The show is also likely to take a trip down memory lane and revisit songs from their debut album "Hints Allegations, and Things Left Unsaid."  Some of the other fun and positive music for the evening could include songs like "The World I Know." Between songs, fans enjoy watching the chemistry of the band. The music does not seem rushed or forced, but as if the group is inviting fans to a jam session with friends. more Four Tops Take a trip back to Motown with this family-friendly concert. The Four Tops take the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 28. Some of the band's famous hits include the soulful "My Girl" and "Just My Imagination (Running Away with Me)." Fans can enjoy a show that brings up the roots of rock and roll. The show mixes soul with a string of early R&B music for a night of fun and memories. Tracy Byrd Country fans will enjoy a night at the Four Seasons Arena when Tracy Byrd takes the stage. Byrd made a name for himself in the 1990s with fun songs like "The Watermelon Crawl."  One of his other up-tempo hits is "I'm From the Country." Couples often use his hit "Keeper of the Stars" for weddings and other special events. The show is on Monday, July 29 at 7:30 p.m. Fans are guaranteed to enjoy a mix of classic country with new additions to his set list. Don't miss out on Tracy Byrd's legendary hits and enjoy the Montana State Fair in Great Falls, Mt. Get tickets now. Hairball Fans of arena rock enjoy Hairball's lively shows. The band is known for mixing fun with their take on songs like Bon Jovi's "Living on a Prayer." They are a tribute band but do not focus on one artist. Instead, Hairball brings an entire genre of music to a new generation. Hairball brings their exciting blend of music to the Four Seasons Arena on Tuesday, July 30. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Trace Adkins Country music fans enjoy another night at the Four Seasons Arena on Wednesday, July 31 at 9:00 p.m. Trace Adkins brings his classic voice to the arena for an entertaining show. Adkins tends to blend heartbreaking ballads with a string of up-tempo songs to keep the crowd entertained for hours on end. He is known for songs like "It's All About Me" and "Every Light in the House." He has also done ballads like his patriotic tribute "Still a Soldier." Tickets for all of these shows are on sale now. As you pick out the events you want to attend, talk to your friends and family. Bring them with you so you can enjoy things together. Remember to check the photography policy for the individual event before you leave. Image by Cindy Funk via cc by 2.0

Great Falls, Montana, is named after the largest of five waterfalls that make up a small part of the Missouri River Basin. Read below to see some of the best outdoors things to do in Great Falls. The Falls Great Falls first became known to the United States during the Lewis and Clark expedition of the Louisiana Purchase territory in 1805. Each of them offers breathtaking views of carved out mountainside, forests, grasslands, and running water. From different access points a little off the beaten path, visitors can walk along trails that will take them by each of the waterfalls, as well as the dams that help power the state. This landmark has been a major spot of exploration for the past 160 years. The view from the top of the Great Falls of the entire region is amazing. The Ryan Dam, which generates power from the Great Falls, is a testament to human ingenuity. Rainbow Falls produces a vibrant display in its 50-foot cascade. Black Eagle Falls has a park that offers a great view of the convergence of the Missouri River with the Sun River. The amount of sightseeing and exploring in this area seems nearly endless. more For more information on all of the waterfalls and dams that make up this attraction, check out their website. Giant Springs State Park Giant Springs also became part of Lewis and Clark's expedition and is home to one of the country's largest freshwater basins. It has a flow rate of 156 million gallons of water per day, which keeps the water clean and steady at a crisp 54 degrees. The area around the park is very popular and includes the Great Falls, river outlooks, a fish hatchery, and the city. There are over 20 miles of trails to be explored within the 4,600 acres of front and backcountry at Great Springs. Visitors will often picnic, hold group functions, go hiking, take one of the tours, fish, hunt, or watch the birds. There are special events and activities for children as well. Giant Springs State Park is loaded with things to do and amazing scenic views. For more information on park activities, amenities, and events, go to their official website run by the State of Montana. Malmstrom Museum and Air Park Located just through the gate of the Malmstrom Air Force Base on the east side of Great Falls, this museum chronicles the United States' air power and missile capabilities from World War II through the Cold War with the Soviet Union, and down to today. There are a large number of military vehicles, aircraft, weapons systems, and missile silos on display to the public for free. The Malmstrom Museum and Air Park is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are special tours that can be arranged by contacting their commercial office at 406-731-2705. Between the parks, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities in Great Falls, there are hours of fun to be had by people of all ages and walks of life. The next time you're thinking about going outside for the day, try out one of these activities. Image by JoshuaDavisPhotography via cc by-sa 2.0

The Nissan Kicks is part of the ever-growing small SUV class that offers customers a nice mixture of performance with the right amount of space to haul around groceries, work stuff, or the kid's sports equipment. Check out these features of the Kicks to see if it's the right vehicle for you. Performance The Kicks is an agile little crossover SUV that's built to get in and out of thick city traffic easy and efficiently. It has a 1.6-liter, dual overhead cam, inline four-cylinder engine that generates 125 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This engine combined with the vehicle's light weight gives it quick acceleration that isn't overpowering, which is great for weaving through congested streets. more Driving this front-wheel-drive crossover is Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission that eliminates the traditional lag that comes from gear shifting, along with features like Hill Assist that keep the Kicks from moving regardless of the incline. The suspension consists of independent front struts and a torsion bar in the rear that gives the vehicle solid control through turns, as well as offering a smooth ride over bumpy terrain. Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking technology provide more than enough stopping power for this featherweight SUV. Exterior Designed to be sleek and have an urban feel, the lines on the Kicks are sharp and add to the low profile look that actually betrays the amount of space inside. There are options for either 16- or 17-inch aluminum wheels, as well as LED headlights with signature accents. A black grille with silver accents, along with black bumpers and wheel accents round out the Kicks look. Interior Though this may be the smallest SUV crossover that Nissan offers, that in no way means that passengers will feel cramped. There is ample leg, head, and body room in this five-seater to fit comfortably, even in the backseat. An unusually large cargo space makes it possible to haul around much more than class competitors, and this amount can be further increased by folding down the rear seats. Seats use cloth fabric that is spill and stain resistant and the floor is carpeted. As far as infotainment goes, the NissanConnect system comes with a 7-inch color touch-screen display that can access a variety of entertainment apps like SiriusXM and Pandora, navigational software that includes GPS tracking, and security features. The button layout is intuitive and easy to learn, and owners will delight in features like voice-activated door locking through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Bluetooth synchronization lets drives connect their phone or another device directly to NissanConnect, which opens up more options to play content as well as making phone calls. With their commitment to offering competitively priced vehicles with a high level of craftsmanship, it's no wonder that Nissan's smallest SUV is a top choice in its class. Check out these models that are currently available and take one for a test drive to see if the Nissan Kicks is the next SUV for you. Image by RL GNZLZ via cc by-sa 2.0

The Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition is an homage to the original Z roadster that rocketed down the highway back in the 1970s. This new version of the classic coupe will delight both newcomers and veterans alike with its power, performance, and comfort. Power The 370Z is a rear-wheel-drive racer with a naturally-aspirated, VQ 3.7-liter V-6 engine that puts out 332 horsepower and 270 foot-pounds of torque. The lightweight and aerodynamic body style mesh well with this particular engine giving it a zero to 60 time of 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 miles per hour. more Customers can choose between six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmissions. The manual transmission comes with Nissan's SynchroRev Match System, which mimics the heel and toe method of downshifting, reducing shift time while maximizing the acceleration curve of the engine. The automatic transmission comes equipped with a manual shift mode and Downshift Rev Matching that mimics the SynchroRev. Performance Supporting the raw power and speed produced by the 370Z's engine is a sport suspension consisting of a two-link, double wishbone, aluminum-alloy in the front and a four-link aluminum-alloy in the rear. This system keeps the 370Z tight through turns and corners. Four-way, sport-tuned shock absorbers, front and rear performance chassis dampeners, and stabilizer bars keep the ride smooth over bumps and potholes. The 370Z comes from the factory with Yokohama Advan Sport High-Performance tires for extra grip which are mounted to 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. The power steering is constantly being monitored and adjusted by speed-sensitive sensors and software to keep drivers from over or under turning due to their rate of speed. Comfort With so much focus on power and performance, it might give the impression that Nissan glossed over refinements to the interior, but nothing could be further from the truth. This little two-seater has an eight-way adjustable captain's chair on the driver's side and a four-way adjustable chair for the passenger with lumbar support. Both seats are powered, heated, and made from high-quality cloth. There is ample room for legs, head, and body inside the cockpit of the 370Z, as well as knee and leg support on both sides. The interior of the Heritage Edition is black with yellow trim which can be seen on the dash, seats, shifter, and steering wheel. The look is designed to look fast while giving a nod to the original 1970s Z car. The infotainment system uses NissanConnect software, including a variety of entertainment apps like Pandora, SiriusXM, and iHeartRadio, as well as navigational apps, updates on system status, and security features. Drivers can even unlock the door remotely by speaking the command to either Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Bluetooth and USB synching allow phones and other devices to be linked into the infotainment system allowing even further options. With all this power, performance, and comfort bundled into one car, it's no wonder that the Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition is such a hit with car buyers. If you are in the market for a sporty coupe, then definitely give the 370Z Heritage Edition a spin. Image by Chad Goddard via cc by-nd 2.0

The 2019 Versa is efficient and affordable, and it has lots of cargo and passenger space. It's a great choice for teens or commuters. People who prefer a hatchback can choose the Versa Note. The 2019 Versa sedan comes in four trim levels: S, S Plus, SV, and SV Special Edition. Here's some more information about this practical vehicle. An Attractive Exterior The 2019 Nissan Versa looks a lot like a smaller version of the Altima, one of the auto maker's most popular vehicles. However, trim levels above the base S have a rear spoiler for a sportier feel. The Versa comes with 15-inch wheels and all-season tires. You can add fog lights and alloy wheels as well. The prominent black grille is surrounded by chrome, and it echoes the look of the angular headlights. There's also a lower grille that resembles a less detailed mirror image of the upper one. more Great Performance The 2019 Versa's 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine produces 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. The S is connected to a five-speed manual transmission, and other trim levels have an Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT and the independent front suspension provide a smooth, comfortable ride that handles bumps well. This sedan can go 31 miles per gallon in the city and 39 miles per gallon on the highway. A Comfortable Interior With Convenient Features The 2019 Nissan Versa comes with 7-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, a USB port, cloth seats, a large glove box, speed-sensitive volume control, a four-speaker sound system, a trip computer, and audio controls for the steering wheel. It has 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space, a huge amount for a subcompact sedan. The Versa's large back seat is easy to see from, and driver visibility is expansive. The infotainment system has plenty of knobs and buttons that are simple to use. Choose the SV for folding rear seats, silver accents on the dashboard, a second 12-volt power outlet, keyless entry, and optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. You can also add push-button start, faux suede seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Safety The 2019 Versa comes with a rearview camera to make it easier to back up in tight spaces. The advanced air bag system uses occupant classification sensors to prevent air bags in seats with children sitting in them from deploying at high speeds. This can prevent serious injuries. A hands-free texting assistant, side impact, and side curtain air bags with rollover sensors are included as well. Nissan's Vehicle Immobilizer System is optional with the SV and standard with the SV Special Edition. You can also add a vehicle tracking and recovery system and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Visit Taylor's AutoMax for more information about the 2019 Nissan Versa. Meeting your automotive needs is our first priority. We offer a wide inventory of new and used vehicles, and we can help you find the best ride for yourself and your family. Our skilled technicians can also help you keep your car in great condition.

Hiking is one of the best ways to get fresh air, rejuvenate your soul and take in the beauty of nature. Great Falls, is home to many beautiful hiking trails that range from easy to advanced and everything in between. For those looking for any chance to get outside and enjoy the outdoors, here are five fun hiking trails near Great Falls, Montana. South Shore Trail South Shore Trail is located in a beautiful area and receives a moderate hiking rating. The trails are well-maintained, and the views go on for days. With an overall distance of 10.4 miles, this is a relatively long workout, but well worth it. Once you get to the top, you will enjoy beautiful views of the Missouri River and pictures to last a lifetime. more Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is extremely well-maintained. If you are an animal lover, this trail is for you as it goes directly through a natural wetland filled with numerous water birds. You will get to see ducks, Canadian geese, snow geese, swans, and shorebirds along your hike as well. Giant Springs State Park Giant Springs State Park is a Montana State Park that has many remarkable features. This pet-friendly park is located along the Missouri River and boasts views of the Rainbow Falls overlook. Enjoy an array of sites to look at and take in at this fantastic park, including both the river and trees along the trail. Hike over to the Ryan Dam and the Great Falls of the Missouri River to examine the wildlife and the different types of birds that live here. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is located in Ulm, Montana, and is one of the country's largest buffalo jump sites. While on your hike you can stop and check out the visitor center and take in some history. Both provide details of the fantastic journey of the people and animals that used to live here. There are high cliffs, wide open skies, and open fields that offer amazing views. The sunsets and sunrises are breathtaking. River's Edge Trail River's Edge Trail is located right here in Great Falls and is a grand park. The entire trail is almost 60 miles on both sides of the Missouri River with amazing views of the mountains, river canyons, waterfalls, and expansive prairies. The Trail has 18 public art pieces, access to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and a free telescope providing you even better views of the natural environment. Taking a hike is a perfect way to escape the chaos of life. You can get in some exercise while spending quality time alone or with family and friends. With so many amazing trails located in and around Great Falls, there is no shortage of opportunities to get out, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the beauty of nature. From animals to water, landscapes and more, the hiking trails around Great Falls, Montana, will not disappoint. Image by vastateparkstaff via CC BY 2.0

Nissan sedans are set to impress this year. While the midsize 2019 Nissan Altima is all-new, the full-size Nissan Maxima features a fresh face-lift with impressive new tech features. Here are just a few similarities and differences to help you choose the Nissan that is right for you. Strong Exterior The 2019 Nissan Altima is entering an all-new generation with an impressive new look. More prominent in every dimension, the Altima is a mid-size sedan that's the same size as the 2019 Nissan Maxima. Receiving a slight face-lift, including updated front and rear facias, the Maxima continues to be a favorite with customers looking for a smaller full-size sedan. more Luxurious Interior The Nissan Altima has updated features that are usually found in more expensive vehicles, including a dash-mounted infotainment system that has the feel of a tablet. The 2019 Maxima delivers luxury features including quilted leather seats, wood-tone trim, and additional back seat leg room. Engine Powering the 2019 Nissan Altima is a 2.5-liter inline four that produces 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque while the 2019 Maxima features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine generating 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque. If you prefer a little more power, the 2019 Altima also offers a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline four engine delivering 236 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The Nissan Altima is also the only sedan currently available in all-wheel drive. Keeping You Safe and Connected Safety is very important to Nissan customers and their families; that is why Nissan works hard to provide multiple safety features in every vehicle. The 2019 Altima protects your family with feature including Safety Shield 360, ProPILOT assist technology, centering technology, and adaptive cruise control. The 2019 Nissan Maxima continues this focus by delivering driver and passenger safety with available Safety Shield 360, front and rear automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, high-beam assist, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Both vehicles are equipped with user-friendly infotainment systems and come standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Pricing The standard 2019 Altima comes in at $23,750 with AWD available on every trim. With an upgrade to the VC-Turbo engine, you're looking at a price tag starting at $29,150. The Nissan Maxima is the more expensive option of the two with a starting MSRP of $33,420. The top of the line Platinum trim starts with an MSRP of $42,335. With all the added features and luxury found in the 2019 Maxima, you will see that it's worth this jump in price. Final Thoughts The 2019 Nissan Altima has a lot to offer buyers in the market for a mid-size sedan. Its available VC-Turbo engine isn't like anything you will currently find on the market, and the available all-wheel drive is a huge bonus for many drivers. However, the 2019 Nissan Maxima is perfect for drivers who are looking for a luxury sedan at a reasonable price. Whether looking for a larger mid-size sedan or a smaller full-size sedan, Nissan has a vehicle perfect for your lifestyle needs. Stop into Taylor's AutoMax Nissan, check out our impressive selection of Nissan vehicles,  talk with our knowledgeable sales staff, and schedule your test drive today.

Keeping your vehicle well-maintained helps to keep your overall repair and maintenance costs to a minimum over the years. The importance of changing your air filter is often overlooked, and the crew here at Taylor's Automax wants to help you learn how to tell when you need a new one. Here are five signs that your vehicle needs a new air filter. Reduced Fuel Economy The most obvious sign that your air filter needs to be changed is a change in your fuel economy. When your air filter is clogged, your engine has to compensate for the lack of oxygen it is receiving, which results in lower gas mileage. This change in fuel economy isn't always noticeable immediately, but over time you will notice that you have to gas up your car more often. If you see this happening, it is time to check your air filter and replace it if necessary. more Air Filter Looks Dirty The baseline recommendation for changing your air filter is between ten and fifteen thousand miles. A clean air filter is white, or sometimes off-white, in color. Sometimes dirt and debris are already accumulating before the filter becomes visibly dirty. Once you can see the gunk, it is time for a new air filter. Check Engine Light Is On Most modern car engines filter through 10,000 gallons of air per 1 gallon of fuel. When the air supply is inadequate due to a clogged air filter, carbon deposits are formed. This, in turn, can cause the Check Engine Light to come on. While there are many other reasons that the light can come on, this one is an easy fix. Engine Starts to Make Odd Noises Ideally, when you are in a stopped motion with your car running, there should be no excessive noise. You should only be able to feel a smooth sensation of the car's engine. If you start to hear what is called coughing, or if you hear popping noises, then it could be from a dirty air filter. The reason this happens is that a clogged air filter can damage a spark plug, causing it to make noise. Difficulty Starting Your Car A dirty air filter could also make it more difficult to start your car. When the filter is dirty, the air is unable to get through to the engine, which affects the emission control system of the car. Again, this can cause damage to the spark plugs which causes them to be unable to spark correctly. If you notice your vehicle is having difficulty turning over or just not starting at all, it could be as easy as changing out your air filter. We hope that this was helpful and you keep these five tips in mind when maintaining your car. Visit Taylor's Automax today, and we can help you keep the service of your vehicle up-to-date. A simple exchange of your air filter is usually relatively inexpensive and can make a world of difference when it comes to the performance of your car. Image by Ryan Gsell via CC BY 2.0

If you're in the market for a new SUV, you should definitely consider a Nissan. All of the SUVs in Nissan's lineup combine style and performance with safety and reliability. Let's take a look at some Nissan SUVs and what they have to offer. Rogue The compact 2019 Rogue is ready for all of your big adventures. It comes equipped with a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter engine capable of producing 175 pound-feet of torque. You'll go far with the Rogue's highway rating of 33 miles per gallon and the Nissan Door to Door Navigation system will help you get there. The Rogue comfortably seats up to five people and with zero gravity front seats, you'll always feel relaxed and comfortable, even on long trips. more Murano With a redesign for the 2019 model year, the Murano is more luxurious than ever before. The exterior features an enhanced Vmotion grille, redesigned LED headlights and taillights, and new 18- and 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs. The upgraded interior includes new semi-aniline leather-appointed seats with diamond-quilted inserts and three new trim finishes. With the driver's memory system, you can adjust the Murano's mirrors, steering wheel, and driver's seat with just the push of a button. The 2019 Murano is powered by a 260-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine capable of producing 240 pound-feet of torque. It comfortably seats up to five people and has a maximum cargo volume of 70 cubic feet. Pathfinder Whether you're running errands around town or hitting the highway for a road trip, you can count on the 2019 Pathfinder to get you where you're going. Under the Pathfinder's hood, you'll find 284-horsepower, 3.5-liter Direct Injection Gasoline V-6 engine capable of producing 259 pound-feet of torque. It has a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and a highway rating of 27 miles per gallon. With seating for seven and a maximum cargo volume of 79.5 cubic feet, there's plenty of room for family, friends, and fun. For the 2019 Pathfinder, Nissan has expanded available safety feature options. Intelligent cruise control, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert are now standard on upper trim levels. Automatic emergency braking and rear door alert are standard on all trim levels. Armada The 2019 Nissan Armada is the epitome of style and ruggedness. Equipped with a 390-horsepower, 5.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline V-8 engine producing 394 pound-feet of torque, the Armada is capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped. When driving on wet roads the Armada automatically adjusts for better traction, and its advanced four-wheel-drive system makes it perfect for all of your off-road adventures. The Armada comfortably seats up to eight people and has a maximum cargo volume of 171.1 cubic feet. With safety features like intelligent cruise control and automatic emergency braking, you'll always feel confident when you take the wheel of the 2019 Armada. These are just some of the great SUVs in the Nissan lineup. Consider taking a test drive to see which one is right for you. You're sure to enjoy the ride.