All the cool gadgets, gismos and games have transformed how many travelers pass time in the car. However, with the advent of smart phones, people increasingly want to access the Internet on a variety of devices. If the device works from cell service, you likely have Internet if you have cell coverage.

However, many iPod Touches, iPads, and tablets can also be used to access the Internet, even in the car while traveling. You can create your own “hot spot” in your vehicle with what is called a Mobile HotSpot or WiFi Hotspot . Most major carriers offer these, such as Sprint and Verizon. All you have to do is enter your zip code on this Sprint page to find out what’s available in your area. This is ideal for accessing the Internet while on the road, in more remote areas, camping, fishing, etc.

Have you used one of these?

Did you know that you can fish for free at most Minnesota State Parks? There are some limitations and specifications you have to follow, but this map shows many places to fish for free in Minnesota. The Minnesota Walleye Fishing Opener is May 12, 2012, and more information on fishing for free is listed here.

For more information on Minnesota Fishing Opener and licensing, etc.

Make a Pop Can Fishing Pole

Are you fishing the Minnesota Fishing Opener? Where do you fish? Remember to check your vehicle and boat trailer tires before heading out!

Are tires a subject of interest? Yes!

And the fantastic ideas shared on Pinterest proves it. If you love art, creative uses for old items like tires, or simply need a rainy day project, Pinterest is full of amazing images to get your creative juices flowing. Check out some of the great uses people have thought of for old tires on Pinterest!

Are you on Pinterest? Have you thought of a new idea for old tires? We’d love to hear from you!

We appreciate your business and would love to hear from you. Please take a second to give us your review, and read through all comments from other customers listed below.

Reviews from Our Clients:

“I purchased 2 used tires, a week later I had a problem. I went back and was taken care of quickly and courteously. I will be a return customer. Thank you” Laurie

“I’m kind of a novice tire guy. These guys were friendly, knowledgeable, and quick. I told my gearhead buddy what I paid for them installed and he thought I was kidding. Needless to say, he went shortly afterwards. Not sure how these guys pull it off, but my entire family goes out of their way to come up here. We live in Burnsville. Thanks Tirezoo!” Reno via Google

“I bought my first set of used tires from the TireZoo, and found out how good used tires can be; and how much I can save. They are very trustworthy and fast.” Anonymous via Google

“Nice tires for cheap price, very happy” Tink via Google

“Tire Zoo! I found you today on the internet, talked to Pete who was so helpful. Stopped by your Bloomington location and within 20 minutes Paul had solved my tire problem. Thanks guys! Your advice and expertise helped me save hundreds of dollars this holiday season and I’ll be back in 20,000 miles when I need a full set of all weather tires!” E.G. via Facebook

“Exceptional Service-I will be returning to these guys for all of my tires. Cal helped me out and took the time to explain all of my options it was the most professional service I’ve received at any store, bar none. Thanks Guys You Have A Customer For Life.” Dean2007 via CitySearch Reviews

“Nice people, put my summer tires on for much less than their competitors. I’ll go back again.” Tom via Google

Five Stars from RJ on Google Local Reviews

“Had a rear tire fixed and couldn’t be happier with the experience. Fast and easily the best price around. I highly recommend this place.” Osbourne cox via Google

“Excellent service. Excellent prices. Saved me $450 by fixing a tire other mechanics at corporate shops said needed to be replaced along with the other three for even wear. Fact: Tire shops can even the wear on tires to match the level of wear on your other three. This place was honest and just plugged the hole instead of trying to sell me a new or used one. I know were I’ll be going when time comes for tire replacement. Thanks TireZoo!” SavyConsumer via Google

“Super fast service!” Michael via Google

“Purchased wheels at a great price!” Troy via Google

“Great tires at a great price. I would definitely check them out next time I need tires just because of the price, but because of how well they’ve taken care of me after the sale I won’t even shop around, I will just buy tires from them, they are MY tire guys.” Mike via Google

“I was amazed. I needed a couple of used tires for an old utility trailer. I was taken to the used tires and shown the options. After making my selection, I was told the exact price and that they would be ready in 10-15 minutes. I ran an errand to one store and they were ready. I am exceptionally pleased with the service and the price. I will tell my friends!” FlashGorden via Google

“Thought I needed a new set of 4 tires. I gave them a call and they had my tire with a similar (50%) tread depth. Cost me 10% of what a new set would have cost. The guy said it would take about 45 minutes to get the car in and get the tire on….I was out of there in 20 minutes. Very happy!” Jonanthan via Google

“Tire Zoo is a great shop with good service and good pricing! I have recommended to everyone that says they need tires! Every time I just drop in they take care of me right away, with no appt. THANKS TIREZOO!” Deni via Google

“Great service and prices. I had new tires put on my car very quickly with no appointment.” Srebla via Google

“Best Prices, Best Selection, and Best Customer Service in Minnesota! Since I know very little about tires, I thought I would be taken advantage of and be sold the most expensive tires (which has happened in the past at Discount Tires), but after explaining my driving situation and needs for my tires (high mileage/low cost) I was offered a variety of sets of tires that met my requirements and a knowledgeable explanation of how each could benefit my commute. Not only did I get a great set of tires, but quick mounting and balancing, and friendly, knowledgeable service! I will be back for new tires on my wife’s car very soon and recommend Tire Zoo/All Season Tire to all my friends and family….. I never thought I would be so excited about purchasing tires!” Kyle via Google

“You guys are awesome! Thanks for making a stressful situation so easy! Gonna tell everyone I know about you! Thanks for being such a trusted place.” Dawn S. via Facebook

“My son’s minor mishap bouncing off a curb caused rim and wheel damage. I was VERY pleased with the repair costs and service from your Bloomington facility. It was one of those times I was stressed yet couldn’t have been happier with my experience with you. Thank you!” Randy W. via website

“Wow, fast service at a great price. Check Tire Zoo first!” Tom via Google

“I needed new tires for my VW Jetta. Last time I purchased new off-brand tires and paid $1,000. This time I went to TireZoo and got a set of Michelin tires with 75% of the original tread wear remaining for $300. Not only did I save money, but the staff had me in & out in about 45 minutes. I love these guys!” Brian T. via Facebook

“I just bought used tires for the first time in my life, and I can’t believe what I’ve been missing. The tires I bought are like-new and have 30,000+ miles left on them. I saved some significant money and have the peace of mind that the help at the TireZoo know what they are doing and stand behind the product and service. Best of all, people will stop telling me that my tires are bald. Thanks TireZoo in Bloomington!” Beth G.

“I was in serious need for new tires but could not bring myself to spend that kind of money. A friend recommend I check out tirezoo.com. I got four new “used” tires, 85% tread life for a great price. And, they got them installed and balanced in 42 minutes. How cool is that. Never buying new tires again!” CanadianDude via Google

“My wife and I have used All Season Tire for the past 10 years when purchasing both new and used tires and also for our tire repair needs. There is never pressure to purchase the most expensive tires that you often will find at 99% of all other tire shops. They outfit your vehicle with superior quality tires that also fit into your budget, they take the time to explain everything to you and answer your questions, and serve all of their customers with honesty and integrity. We plan on using them for many years to come.”  Brian J.

“You guys are the greatest tire distributors in the history of the planet.” SM via Fan Page

“Fastest most professional service in town” AA via Google Reviews

“We have been outfitting mine and my families tires with All Season/TireZoo for years. Their knowledge of what you need when you explain what you do with your vehicle is second to none. Forget being sold the top of the line tire to pad commissions, when a $70 Radial is all you need. I seriously couldn’t recommend these guys higher.‎” TM via Google Reviews

“I don’t live nearby anymore but still go back every time. The used tires are super cheap and reliable. When I got one today it was mounted and ready to roll in under 10 minutes.‎” J via Google Reviews

In addition to checking your vehicle tires over for wear and tear, tread, and proper tire pressure, make sure you give attention to all the tires you own this Spring. If you don’t have a tire pressure gauge, it’s an inexpensive investment. If you don’t have a air compressor, most gas stations still offer free air.

• Check the tires on your trailer before you start doing yard work and landscaping projects.

• Check the tires on your lawn tractor or mower before you fire it up. Don’t forget to change the oil on the mower after sitting all winter!

• Check the tires on your RV when you pull it out to wash it and get it ready for the camping season.

• Check the tires on your boat trailer before you head to the lake with all the toys in tow.

• Check the tires on the bikes before the kids head out. You don’t want them pedaling extra hard because of the low pressure.

While we don’t sell tractor, mower, and bike tires, we are here for all your car and truck tire needs. If you’re worried about one of your tires, stop in and have us take a look!

photo credit: Robert Couse-Baker

In addition to our current Spring Saver Tire Specials at the TireZoo of MN, we wanted to let you know about a couple other ways to save on tires right now.

There are a few tire rebates and specials that tire manufacturers are offering on a mail-in basis. These are offers by the manufacturers and you must contact them to take advantage of the offers.

Continental Tire – Free Nook

Continental Tire is offering a free nook with the purchase of a set of four new tires through May 6, 2012. You can print the Continental Tire-Nook details here or visit the Continental Tire Facebook Page.

Mail-In Rebate – Goodyear or Dunlop Tires

Get up to an $80 rebate when you buy a set of four Goodyear or Dunlop tires between March 1, 2012 and May 31, 2012. Read the terms and conditions and print a Goodyear or Dunlop Tire Mail-In Rebate Form.

Hankook Tire Mail-In Rebate

Hankook Tire is offering a $50 rebate in the form of an American Express Rewards Card on various sets of tire purchases between April 1, 2012 and June 30, 2012. To read on qualifying purchases, terms and conditions of the Hankook Tire Mail-In Rebate, click here.

Stop by either of our locations to buy new tires or talk to a service technician about your needs.

Save on new and used tires right now at the TireZoo in Bloomington and Anoka, MN!

We have two new specials to help you save money on tires and check your tire maintenance off your spring “to do” list!

Spring Saver Tire Special #1

Save $50 when you buy any set of four new tires! This offer can’t be combined with any other offers or coupons. You must mention this code at the time of purchase: Blog Spring Saver or print off this tire savings flyer and bring with you. Hurry, offer expires May 25, 2012.

Spring Saver Tire Special #2

Save $30 when you buy any set of four used tires! This offer can’t be combined with any other offers or coupons. You must mention this code at the time of purchase: Blog Spring Saver or print off this tire savings flyer and bring with you. Hurry, offer expires May 25, 2012.

Not sure if you need new tires? Stop by either of our locations and we’ll take a look.

Have you spilled one too many times in your vehicle’s cup holder? Maybe a fast food beverage was left only to seep sticky syrup into the crevices of your cup holder, making it a mess. Here are some tips to make the clean up process a little easier.

Removable Cup Holders

Many trucks and cars have cup holders or cup holder liners made of plastic or rubber that is removable. If you can remove your cup holder, it is much easier to clean. Try running your cup holders through a rinse cycle of your dishwasher (be careful with full cycles that could warp or melt). After the rinse cycle, allow the cup holder to sit for 20 minutes and then attempt to wipe out leftover slime. If necessary, repeat the process.

If you don’t have a dishwasher or are leery of that method, try a bucket of warm, soapy water and drop your cup holders in. They may need some serious soaking time.

Non-Removable Cup Holders

This is much more challenging, but can be done. Have two clean rags ready. Use the first one to squeeze a small amount of warm, soapy water into the cup holder and allow to sit. Use the second, DRY rag to wedge into the cup holder to soak up the water and released residue. You may have to repeat the process until all the sugar dissolves.

For light colored plastic cup holders stained with coffee or other beverages, try a small amount of lemon juice and rub with a clean cloth.

Earth Day is Sunday,  April 22, 2012 this year. If you have tires in your garage or shed, Earth Day is the perfect time to haul them out. Depending on the tires you have, the TireZoo may be able to help.

Old “Spent” Tires

If you have old tires that you are simply storing because you have no use for them anymore, they should be recycled. You can do your part by getting them out of the shed or rubbish and bringing them in for recycling. At the TireZoo, we ship the ‘spent’ tires to a reputable recycler. The tires are shredded or made into crumbs and are used to produce a wide variety of new products! Click here for more about our tire recycling. There is a $3.00 tire disposal fee.

One company doing some really neat things with old “spent” tires is “Flat Tire Decor” in Wisconsin.  Their newest product is their Tube Tote, which is a cool tool carrier. Do you know of a fun new product or project using old tires? Let us know in the comments!

Quality Used Tires

If you have quality used tires in your garage or on a car you’re planning to get rid of, bring the tires in to either of our locations (Bloomington or Anoka, MN) and we’ll make you an offer! We pay top dollar for used tires in good condition. What are you waiting for?

Get a jump on Earth Day 2012! Visit EarthDay.org for more ideas on how to join the millions of people world-side celebrate Earth Day.

Lying just got more difficult, that’s for sure. Teenagers borrowing the car will have parents who know exactly where they are if Onstar’s new Family Link service is activated.

The new service offers both a Vehicle Locator and a Vehicle Location Alert system. The Vehicle Locator will locate one or more vehicles using a visual map with address. The Vehicle Location Alert system generates a message via email or text messaging to let the vehicle owner know specific pre-set information. This new service will definitely allow owners to stay more connected with their vehicles, and likely heighten communication between parents and teen drivers (albeit reluctantly in some cases). A touted benefit of the Family Link service is its hands-free ability to check-in without using a phone.

For more information, check out OnStar or a techie review by Mashable.com: “OnStar’s Family Link is Ready to Reach Out and Find You”.