In My Garage

Your 1966 AC Cobra Wallpapers Are Here

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:23:23 -0700

Your 1966 AC Cobra Wallpapers Are Here

"There's nothing nice about a 427 Cobra. It's loud, it smells like gasoline, and it shakes and bucks. You nearly crash about once every ten minutes. It's so damn wonderful that you can't believe it!" - Dan Gurney

Not much we can add to Gurney's words. Our cover car is beauty and beast in one. So bad it's good.

Get some wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

We Asked: Where do you use Speed Shine?

Tue, 7 May 2013 08:42:52 -0700

We Asked: Where do you use Speed Shine?

One might think Speed Shine®, a best-selling Griot's Car Care product for almost 20 years, was beyond improvement or innovation. But in our constant quest for perfection (and realizing some of the best ideas come from our customers), we recently asked on Facebook, "What are your favorite 'alternative' uses for Speed Shine?"

Read the best answers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It! Pedals-to-the-Metal Edition

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 10:49:45 -0700

Caption It! Pedals-to-the-Metal Edition

We're all guilty of trying to haul too much stuff at once. My grandpa used to call this a "lazy man's load". Sometimes you get away with it, sometimes everything comes crashing dramatically to Earth and you realize your folly. This image of a bike-jammed van is just... I have no words. But maybe you do. Submit a caption and win a car care prize!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Finishing Touch: Choosing The Right Dressing

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:30:55 -0700

Finishing Touch: Choosing The Right Dressing

Dressings beautify vinyl, rubber, and plastic with a finishing sheen and often contain protectants to ward off UV damage. Introduced over 19 years ago, Vinyl & Rubber Dressing was the first such product from Griot's Garage. Since then, we've developed a number of others. This article will help you select the best dressings to suit your needs.

Read on...

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Your 1954 Mercury Monterey Wallpapers Are Here

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:28:46 -0700

Your 1954 Mercury Monterey Wallpapers Are Here

This cool red Merc comes to us straight from the Golden Era of cruising. It's all about top-down fun and stoplight thumbs-up, and it arrives on the cover of the latest Griot's Garage Handbook just in time for spring. Get ready to stomp the pedal and float down the road with these free desktop and phone wallpapers. Enjoy!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your 1962 Ferrari 250 GTC Wallpapers Are Here

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 11:20:26 -0800

Your 1962 Ferrari 250 GTC Wallpapers Are Here

Ferrari 250's were successful from their early days, an accessible entry point for enthusiasts wanting a piece of the prancing horse mystique. Our cover car is a timeless beauty, a cabriolet styled by Pininfarina and constructed by craftsmen. Put some Italian design on your desktop or phone with these free wallpapers.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

What drying towel should I choose?

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 11:19:08 -0800

What drying towel should I choose?

Making a choice between similar products can seem like a game of eeny, meeny, miny, moe. In these cases, having some simple data can help us differentiate and make the best decision for our own needs. I recently compared three popular Griot's Garage drying towels and created a chart so you can see the differences.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Vince Gardner and the Two-Seater Mustang

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 14:02:29 -0800

Vince Gardner and the Two-Seater Mustang

The world of custom cars is fascinating. Sometimes history is well-preserved. Other times, as with a shortened, two-seater Mustang that resurfaced a couple years ago, it must be peeled back layer-by-layer. Often, the full and true story (mired in years of fable, or even corporate secrecy), can never be realized.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Wallpapers Are Here

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 09:16:37 -0800

Your 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Wallpapers Are Here

In 1961, Alaska took delivery of its first Mercedes-Benz 300SL. The roadster must have been an exotic sight on the showroom floor of Anchorage Studebaker, Packard, Mercedes-Benz. That automobile, our cover car, underwent a full nut-and-bolt restoration in 2004, and can now be enjoyed on your desktop or phone. Download away!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Galvanizing Metalwork of Josh Welton

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:14:16 -0800

The Galvanizing Metalwork of Josh Welton

From a small shop in the Detroit outlier of Mt. Clemens, Michigan, Josh Welton is making art from steel, fire, and grit. In a time when when the skilled labor that built America is being sidelined, Welton reminds us there's significant value in little pools of molten metal. His work might just inspire the next generation of artisans.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Collectors Foundation: Bringing Back Shop Class

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:39:18 -0800

Collectors Foundation: Bringing Back Shop Class

Most of us will recall our shop classes from junior high and high school fondly. Designing, building, and problem-solving with both head and hands... There is lasting value in these learning experiences. Unfortunately, we are witnessing the demise of vocational training in our schools. One philanthropic movement aims to reverse the trend.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Limited-Time Offer: Free Shipping at Griot's Garage

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:27:24 -0800

Limited-Time Offer: Free Shipping at Griot's Garage

We want to say thank you for being a Griot's Garage customer. And what better way than to offer, for a limited time, FREE SHIPPING on orders over $99! Shop for the automotive enthusiasts on your Holiday list, or pick up something for yourself. Either way, FREE SHIPPING means you will save big. Have fun in your garage!

Shop now at Griot's Garage.com...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your 1956 Eldorado Biarritz Wallpapers Are Here

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 13:27:24 -0800

Your 1956 Eldorado Biarritz Wallpapers Are Here

Cadillac. The name evokes images and stirs emotions. In 1956, Cadillac was power and luxury, delivered to your driveway dripping with chrome and cubic inches. This brand of automotive styling may never be visited again, but you can put it on your desktop or phone. Enjoy the free wallpapers (and don't say we never gave you anything).

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

As Seen On TV: Griot's Garage Treasures

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 08:24:49 -0700

As Seen On TV: Griot's Garage Treasures

You know they exist... Warehouses, barns, and garages filled to the gills with one-of-a-kind automobiles. But these troves of car guy dream stuff are often inaccessible. You hardly ever get to look inside. Until now. In a 13-show TV series, Griot's Garage is rolling open the door on some of the most interesting car collections in the country.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

El Camino: Crunk or Junk?

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:50:42 -0700

El Camino: Crunk or Junk?

On this day in 1958, Chevrolet introduced its infamous car/truck hybrid, the El Camino. Unfortunately, Ford had beaten Chevy to market with its Ranchero, and the bowtie was discontinued after two years. As Ranchero's shrunk to fit the Falcon platform, Chevy saw an opportunity and reintroduced its "coupe utility vehicle" in 1964.

Read on and cast your vote...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your McLaren M23 Wallpapers Are Here

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 14:49:24 -0700

Your McLaren M23 Wallpapers Are Here

With 16 Grand Prix victories, plus two Drivers' and one Constructors' championship,The McLaren M23 holds "legend" status in F1 circles. Our Handbook 354 Cover Car is a great example of this venerable machine. Put one of these free wallpapers on your computer or phone, and relive the GP glory days.

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 2012 Tour Du Jour in Photos

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:08:19 -0700

The 2012 Tour Du Jour in Photos

I was born into the car guy lifestyle. Building and showing VW's and a handful of random British cars was a big thing in my family. As much as I love looking at and working on cars, I enjoy driving them even more. So when I was asked by sponsor McKay Wealth Management if I'd like to document the annual Tour Du Jour, how could I say no?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Vintage Italian Motorcycle Wallpapers Are Here

Fri, 7 Sep 2012 16:00:50 -0700

Your Vintage Italian Motorcycle Wallpapers Are Here

Our most recent Handbook cover features three stunning vintage Italian bikes. We'd be fortunate to have even one, but with a 1952 Invicta, 1957 FB-Mondial, AND a 1961 Motobi all in the building at the same time, we just had to spend some time behind the lens. You're the beneficiary... Enjoy these free wallpapers for your desktop or phone!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your 1961 Impala Wallpapers Are Here

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 14:58:28 -0700

Your 1961 Impala Wallpapers Are Here

Chevy's Impala model line stands as an American icon. Not only have the cars served as workhorses for countless families, their progressive styling has always been ripe for customization. This awesome '61 has been given the resto-mod treatment, with a successful combination of tasteful modifications, daily-driver comforts, and just a touch of hot rod brute. Put it on your desktop.

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

One Bad Brick

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 15:59:52 -0700

One Bad Brick

In 1968, Hurst began a long-standing collaboration with Oldsmobile, producing special editions of its 442 and Cutlass models all the way through the 1980's. A less well-known Hurst car (in fact, you may not have ever seen one) wore Chrysler 300 badging. This would be Mopar's only Hurst. And it is awesome.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Reviving a Tired Bull: '68 Lamborghini Islero Restoration II

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 14:19:49 -0700

Reviving a Tired Bull: '68 Lamborghini Islero Restoration II

Disassembly is my favorite part of a restoration. You uncover the details that make these automobiles so unique. Unmolested cars can show you the original finishes used when the car was built at the factory. It's especially interesting when dealing with a low production number car like the Islero.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your 1994 Porsche Speedster Wallpapers Are Here

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 08:16:01 -0700

Your 1994 Porsche Speedster Wallpapers Are Here

1994 marked the last year for Porsche's air-cooled Speedsters. With deleted rear seats, stiff suspension, sport exhaust, and 247 horsepower on tap, they are true drivers' machines. Our Cover Car is finished in Maritime Blue, with color-keyed wheels and interior details. Imagine yourself behind the wheel with one of these free wallpapers!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Bucky Fuller and the Dymaxion Car

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 12:04:59 -0700

Bucky Fuller and the Dymaxion Car

Architect and engineer Buckminster Fuller sought to live his life as "an experiment to find what a single individual can contribute to changing the world." One result of this philosophy was the fascinatingly futuristic Dymaxion Car, the first of which was manufactured in Bridgeport, Connecticut on this day in 1933.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Going Big: The R/C Creations of Headquake

Mon, 4 Jun 2012 16:05:33 -0700

Going Big: The R/C Creations of Headquake

When I stumbled across the video of Rick White's scale '66 Bronco crawling over rocks (and scaring small animals), I was transfixed. The man known on the Interwebs as "Headquake" builds some of the most realistic R/C cars and trucks you'll ever see. By hand. From wood. Check out his creations and hear what he has to say about the craft.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

America's Car Museum: The Home Stretch

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:54:24 -0700

America's Car Museum: The Home Stretch

With a flurry of car shows, parties, and other special events, the public will get its first look at LeMay - America's Car Museum very soon! Anticipation of the Grand Opening has been palpable for car guys everywhere (and especially in the Northwest, home of InMyGarage). Recently, we got an inside look at the museum, as the build-up to the first weekend in June reaches fever pitch.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

What's the greatest Chevrolet car or truck ever?

Wed, 2 May 2012 09:31:44 -0700

What's the greatest Chevrolet car or truck ever?

On this day in 1918, General Motors acquired the Chevrolet Motor Company, and positioned the fledgling automaker to create mainstream vehicles to compete with Ford. In the years that followed, Chevrolet produced some of the most iconic cars and trucks ever to grace the roads. Who can't spot the fins of a ‘57 Bel Air from a hundred yards?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Waxes & Sealants: Which is right for you?

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:00:36 -0700

Waxes & Sealants: Which is right for you?

If the most important step in caring for your paint is keeping it clean, a proper coat of wax or sealant to protect your paint is a close second. But with five different options from Griot's Garage for paint protection, which is right for you and your vehicle? It's a question we're asked every day, so let's lay out the facts and make your decision easy.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Mystery Machine Clone, Crunk or Junk?

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:24:49 -0700

Mystery Machine Clone, Crunk or Junk?

We've spotted this Mystery Machine replica passing the IMG Global Headquarters on more than one occasion. Each time, a "Zoinks!" is yelled down the hallway as everyone reaches for their phone to snap a picture. Where does this car-toon replica rate on your scale of automobile awesomeness?

Cast your vote...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Adorable 1960 Renault 4CV Wallpapers Are Here

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:20:57 -0700

Your Adorable 1960 Renault 4CV Wallpapers Are Here

Small in size, but big on personality, this great little Renault graces the cover of Griot's Garage Handbook 346. Its owner remembers learning to drive in a similar 4CV, at the age of 10, while living in France. Not surprisingly, he says it's "a blast to drive". Read more about the care here, then download and enjoy your free wallpapers!

Enjoy the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Introducing Griot's Garage Glass Sealant

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:19:22 -0700

Introducing Griot's Garage Glass Sealant

We experience a healthy amount of rainy weather here in the Pacific Northwest (okay, probably an unhealthy amount of rainy weather). While I'm not usually one to talk positive about gray skies and water-soaked shoes, it does make for an ideal test bed when developing products to fight our aquatic adversary.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

WIN THIS! Griot's Car Care New Arrivals Collection

Fri, 6 Apr 2012 15:01:08 -0700

WIN THIS! Griot's Car Care New Arrivals Collection

Recently, a request to bring back the Griot's Garage Logo Sign popped up on our Facebook page. In fact, quite a few of you chimed in that you'd like more red in the garage. We love feedback from our customers! So, in addition to re-releasing the sign, we thought we'd have a little fun. Feel like winning some new car care products?

Read on and see how to win...

Have fun in your garage!®

Reviving a Tired Bull: '68 Lamborghini Islero Restoration I

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:15:23 -0700

Reviving a Tired Bull: '68 Lamborghini Islero Restoration I

Lamborghini produced just 125 Series I Isleros, so seeing one in person is a rare treat. Our car, Chassis #6282, rolled out of its transporter in a foul cloud of varnished gas, and with rust bubbling through the paint on all four fenders. No matter. The old bull deserved to be revived and shared with the world. Let the restoration begin!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable: Close Calls Edition

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:53:15 -0700

Car Quotable: Close Calls Edition

"The crashes people remember, but drivers remember the near misses." - Mario Andretti

Racing accidents are like hockey fights, they get our adrenaline pumping even from the comfort of our couches. But what about close calls? If you've ever been behind the wheel for one, I'm sure you still get that sinking feeling in your stomach just thinking about it.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Fast-Sitting-Still Ferrari F1 Wallpapers Are Here

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 14:35:01 -0700

Your Fast-Sitting-Still Ferrari F1 Wallpapers Are Here

This Ferrari F1-2000, chassis #203, won the Canadian Grand Prix and finished second at the French Grand Prix and Hungarian Grand Prix with Michael Schumacher at the helm. Everything about the car screams "speed". Even sitting still, it looks ready to burst out of our garage and hunt down the nearest race circuit!

Enjoy the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Arthritis Foundation Auto Show Celebrates 30 Years

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:49:38 -0700

Arthritis Foundation Auto Show Celebrates 30 Years

If you'll be in Central Ohio this summer, mark your calendar for July 6 and 7. That's when the city of Dublin plays host to the 30th annual Arthritis Foundation Classic Auto Show & Cruise-In. The show's status as "legendary" is confirmed... what started with 60 cars, now draws more than 1,500. It's a can’t-miss event that benefits a great cause.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

What was your most impulsive automotive purchase?

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:48:08 -0700

What was your most impulsive automotive purchase?

There are a lot of "car things" I don't discuss with my wife. Not because I'm hiding anything, but to avoid her eyes glazing-over in boredom. I may need to rethink this approach. Turns out, she would have liked to know beforehand that I was trading in our car.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your "Flying Scot" F1 Wallpapers Are Here

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 10:14:21 -0800

Your "Flying Scot" F1 Wallpapers Are Here

"My life has been like a magic carpet ride." - Jackie Stewart

Certainly, one of the F1 greats' more memorable magic carpets must be this #004 Tyrrell-Ford, which he drove in the 1972 Monaco GP. Read more about the car at GriotsGarage.com, then relive racing's dangerous days from the relative safety of your desktop!

Enjoy the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Where's the sketchiest place you've filled your tank?

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:34:15 -0800

Where's the sketchiest place you've filled your tank?

Whether it's brand preference, proximity to home, or the quality of the coffee... We all have a go-to gas station. But sometimes (usually at 2am in the middle of nowhere) our hand is forced. You know the place. The lights are flickering. A rusty Texaco sign hangs by one chain, swinging and creaking in the wind. Next services 80 miles?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Stomach-Turningest Helmet Cam Video You'll See Today

Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:42:33 -0800

The Stomach-Turningest Helmet Cam Video You'll See Today

Go-Pro's little Hero camera has sparked a revolution in video for professional daredevils, amateur hoons, and everyone between. Everything looks faster, cooler, more dangerous in POV. While the YouTube comments suggest some disbelief, I happen to believe this knife-edge ridge ride video is real. Take a look and judge for yourself!

See the video...

Have fun in your garage!®

Get Your Free Garage Therapy Door Hanger

Wed, 1 Feb 2012 16:47:14 -0800

Get Your Free Garage Therapy Door Hanger

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so here's an easy way to make sure you get some quality time with the one you love. Download, print, and cut out this door hanger, then enjoy some much-needed garage therapy. Of course, the sentiment is not limited to the month of February. Feel free to enjoy it year-round!

Download after the jump...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Swingin' 1941 Cadillac Wallpapers Are here

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:46:30 -0800

Your Swingin' 1941 Cadillac Wallpapers Are here

Griot's Garage Handbook 341 is graced with this 1941 Cadillac convertible coupe. It's a shining example of the year's "Big Band-style", a chrome-covered combination of grace and performance. Here, free for the downloading, are three images of this cool Caddy for your desktop.

Enjoy the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

5 Gotta-Know Wax Application Tips

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 11:23:48 -0800

5 Gotta-Know Wax Application Tips

Griot's Garage has collected some great car care tips and tricks over the last 21 years. We also learned a few things while developing our new Premium Carnauba Paste Wax that will definitely help you have more fun in your garage! And fun is what it's all about, right? So here you go... the top five, gotta-know wax application tips.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

10 Spiffy, Holiday-Themed, Vintage Car Ads

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:28:26 -0800

10 Spiffy, Holiday-Themed, Vintage Car Ads

Think Holiday car advertising started with Lexus and the "big red bow"? You can trace the trend a lot farther back than that, friend. Buick in the 20's, Mercury in the 40's, Cadillac... well, pretty much all the time. Yep, automakers have been using Christmas to tug at our heart and wallet strings since the early days of internal combustion.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

WIN THIS! Tin #1 of Premium Carnauba Paste Wax

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:03:37 -0800

WIN THIS! Tin #1 of Premium Carnauba Paste Wax

WIN! FREE! ONE-OF-A-KIND! Got your attention? Richard Griot is proud of NEW Premium Carnauba Paste Wax, and he wants you (well, a lucky one of you) to win the first tin down the production line. He even signed it! Entering the giveaway is simple, and you've got up to three chances to win this one-of-a-kind prize ($39.99 value)!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

What's the best automotive advice you ever received?

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:31:50 -0800

What's the best automotive advice you ever received?

I've never really understood the question, "What's the best advice you've ever gotten?" I'm always left wondering, "about what?" Sure, "look both ways before crossing the street" and "don't take candy from strangers" have worked out pretty well so far, but they don't really apply in every situation life throws at you.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

First Look: LeMay - America's Car Museum

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 14:27:07 -0800

First Look: LeMay - America's Car Museum

Words can't describe how impressive America's Car Museum is... even calling it a museum doesn't feel right. Something about that word suggests a place where you silently walk around looking at static displays. What the folks at LeMay have done is different; and not just because cars are the subject matter.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Porsche Race Car Classic in Photos

Tue, 6 Dec 2011 11:18:02 -0800

The Porsche Race Car Classic in Photos

October's Rennsport Reunion IV festivities included a special show at The Quail. The Porsche Race Car Classic was a gathering of over 200 spectacular, pre-1965 race cars, including many 356's, Carreras, Speedsters, 550 Spyders, and the only two Porsche F1 cars from 1960. The setting was fantastic, and most of the entry ticket went to charity. All-in-all, a wonderful day!

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Up Close With The Fisker Karma

Thu, 1 Dec 2011 11:16:07 -0800

Up Close With The Fisker Karma

"I am looking for a lot of men who have an infinite capacity to not know what can’t be done." - Henry Ford

I recently spoke with Ethan from Fisker of Seattle about the brand new Karma hybrid luxury car, which he drove down and showed off in our Car Care School. It seems Fisker has taken Henry Ford's sentiment to heart.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Breakneck Vintage Racer Wallpapers Are Here

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:34:24 -0800

Your Breakneck Vintage Racer Wallpapers Are Here

On the cover of Griot's Garage Handbook 338, we were fortunate to be able to feature three historic race machines from the 20's and 30's. Put one of these great images on your desktop. Then imagine yourself squeezed into the open cockpit, hanging on for dear life while you barrel around a banked oval or power up a hill climb!

Enjoy the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Tire Care Secrets Part 3: Inspection and Maintenance

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:29:36 -0800

Tire Care Secrets Part 3: Inspection and Maintenance

We sometimes take them for granted, but you can learn a lot about a car by looking at its tires. Whether it's for myself, friends, or family, I help inspect and maintain quite a few well-loved cars. One thing that never surprises me is how much I can evaluate (and in many cases easily repair) with a quick check of the four corners.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Rennsport Reunion IV in Photos

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:50:45 -0800

Rennsport Reunion IV in Photos

Rennsport IV was undoubtedly the most spectacular gathering of Porsche cars I've ever witnessed. On the weekend of October 14-16, Porsche Cars North America (PCNA) and Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca brought together an unprecedented number of significant automobiles. It was a Porsche enthusiast's playground.

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Guest Post: How to Prevent a Car or Shop Fire

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:36:46 -0700

Guest Post: How to Prevent a Car or Shop Fire

It's every car lover's nightmare. Your prized automobiles, your garage, or both are engulfed in flames, while you stand helplessly and watch dreams and dollar signs drift skyward with the smoke. As devastating as car and shop fires can be, they are (in large part) preventable. Our friends at Hagerty Insurance have put together some helpful tips.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

5 Reasons You Should Be Getting Griot's Garage Emails

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 11:30:59 -0700

5 Reasons You Should Be Getting Griot's Garage Emails

If you'll allow us to pat ourselves on the back... Griot's Garage emails are pretty darn good! If they're not landing in your inbox, sign up and see for yourself. We take pride in creating email messages that are relevant, informative, well-designed, and fun! Read on to see a couple sample emails and learn why you should sign up today.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Porsches 2 Oxford 2011: A Casual Porsche Party

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:44:22 -0700

Porsches 2 Oxford 2011: A Casual Porsche Party

Who would guess that Oxford, Ohio (home to Miami University and a bucolic downtown setting, complete with brick streets), might become the summer "must drive" destination for all cars Porsche? With the Mid-Ohio Region PCA's "P2O" event, Oxford has become just that. Over 500 cars registered this year, drawing attendees from as far as Canada, Wisconsin, and South Carolina.

Read on and see the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Chopped-and-Flamed '37 Ford Wallpapers Are Here

Wed, 7 Sep 2011 15:23:24 -0700

Your Chopped-and-Flamed '37 Ford Wallpapers Are Here

Our customer traded his high school '73 Camaro for this Ford in 1984, and brought it home in pieces. He finished the car in 2000, and the results are impressive! With 700 horsepower, this beast creates a stir wherever it rumbles. Our four free wallpapers are quiet by comparison so you can, y'know... get some work done. Enjoy!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

What's better than a blue ribbon?

Fri, 2 Sep 2011 08:11:21 -0700

What's better than a blue ribbon?

When people have success using Griot's Garage products, we love to hear about it! We receive countless letters from customers who have won everything from weekend car shows to the Pebble Beach Concours. But when our customer's 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa hit the auction block recently, like the rest of the world, we were blown away by the result.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Allure of the Automobile: An Exceptional Exhibit

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 15:41:16 -0700

The Allure of the Automobile: An Exceptional Exhibit

While working at Griot's Garage, I've seen some pretty incredible machinery, but I never tire of the experience. So, I recently traveled to the Portland Art Museum (PAM) to visit "The Allure of the Automobile" exhibit. I must say, to see sixteen of the world’s rarest and most luxurious cars in one place was awe-inspiring.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 2011 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:54:50 -0700

The 2011 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

BMW M-Car Day has become one of my must-attend car shows of the year. Centered on the cars developed by the Motorsport division of BMW, and organized by the great folks over at the Puget Sound Chapter of the BMW CCA, this show has grown each year (with 2011 being the biggest yet), totaling 175 BMW M-Cars!

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Secret to a Great Garage: Start With The Floor!

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 11:07:57 -0700

The Secret to a Great Garage: Start With The Floor!

You may have heard us say it now and then at Griot's... Every great garage starts with the floor. My dad has been working piece-by-piece to transform his garage into a great one. So, with sheet rock hung and walls painted, it was time to attack the 35 year-old slab of tired looking, oil-stained concrete. I knew just what it needed.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Top 10 Unappreciated Cars

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 11:00:57 -0700

Top 10 Unappreciated Cars

This is a great job... I love having the opportunity to share my opinions with all of the InMyGarage.com readers. I also enjoy being able to spark conversation (and maybe even a little controversy) here and there. Lists always seem to generate some of both, so let's bring 'em back! Here are my Top 10 Unappreciated cars.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

That'll buff right out (no, seriously)...

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 10:42:57 -0700

That'll buff right out (no, seriously)...

Generally speaking, the phrase "that'll buff right out" comes with more than just a hint of sarcasm. However, there are the occasional situations when a scrape or a scuff on car paint looks scarier than it actually is, and will in fact... buff right out. Rewind to last weekend, and a KIA that got a little friendly with a garage door.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Your Bitchin' 1963 Transporter Wallpapers Are Here

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:05:11 -0700

Your Bitchin' 1963 Transporter Wallpapers Are Here

It's summer... throw your surfboard on the roof and head to the beach! What's that? You're stuck in front of a computer? Ok, download a wallpaper of the Griot's Garage Handbook 333 cover car and daydream instead! This '63 Volkswagen is just the thing to "transport" you to a happy place. Two free wallpapers to choose from. Enjoy!

See the wallpapers...

Have fun in your garage!®

Water Spots: The Cause & Cure

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 14:36:43 -0700

Water Spots: The Cause & Cure

Water spots take many different forms across the various surfaces on your vehicle. The two most common (and frustrating) are the spots left behind on your paint and glass. Let's take a few minutes to talk about what causes water spots, how to remove water spots, and finally, how to prevent water spots.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable: Lighten Up Edition

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:34:38 -0700

Car Quotable: Lighten Up Edition

"Any car which holds together for more than a race is too heavy." - Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus Cars.

Colin knew his stuff. He built some seriously fast and, more importantly, seriously nimble cars. A structural engineer by trade, Chapman contributed greatly to automotive design and theory.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Undercarriage Detailing Secrets You Need to Know

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:32:41 -0700

Undercarriage Detailing Secrets You Need to Know

You take care of the obvious stuff... Paint, interior, glass, wheels and tires. But what about your wheel wells, suspension parts, frame rails, and all the other bits tucked away on the underside of your vehicle? Big or small, high or low... any car will benefit from giving the undercarriage some attention. Here's how.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Star Cars: The Ralph Lauren Car Collection

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:35:20 -0700

Star Cars: The Ralph Lauren Car Collection

At one time or another, most of us have debated with friends how, if money was no issue, we'd fill our dream garages. For most, these answers rarely go beyond that afternoon discussion. For a lucky few, one (or maybe two) of these dream machines might find their way to the garage. And then there is Ralph Lauren, whose collection seems hand-picked from the imaginations of car guys everywhere.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: 1968 Dodge Charger

Thu, 7 Jul 2011 09:36:39 -0700

From the Flickr Pool: 1968 Dodge Charger

The '68 Charger looks mean from every angle. Even at rest, in Scott Crawford's photo submitted to our Flickr Group, the Mopar seems poised to pounce. Its stance is just right, and the Cragar rims with raised letter rubber make for a spot-on 70's-era street machine. Great photo, Scott... enjoy your prize! Readers, why not join the group and submit some of your favorites snaps?

See the photo...

Have fun in your garage!®

Free Shipping at Griot's Garage

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 14:48:58 -0700

Free Shipping at Griot's Garage

If you're like us, you've been having lots of fun in your garage this year. At Griot's Garage, we'd like to deliver the fun to your doorstep... FREE! Browse our website for a huge selection of the finest Car Care, Tools, Accessories, and Garage Products. And remember, standard shipping on almost everything we sell is FREE!

Shop now at GriotsGarage.com...

Have fun in your garage!®

Introducing: Griot's Garage Heavy-Duty Wheel Cleaner

Tue, 7 Jun 2011 13:26:49 -0700

Introducing: Griot's Garage Heavy-Duty Wheel Cleaner

As a long time owner and enthusiast of German cars, I've had my fair share of battles with brake dust-covered wheels (I'm sure many of you have, too). While I'm still a huge fan of our original Wheel Cleaner, new Heavy-Duty Wheel Cleaner has taken top-shelf honors in my garage. Let me give you the run-down on what makes it so great.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Do Want: FWDrag Edition

Wed, 1 Jun 2011 14:33:12 -0700

Do Want: FWDrag Edition

When it comes to cars, I love just about anything out-of-the-ordinary. So when we received an e-mail from Sal Cannistraci Jr. telling us about his 2000 Pontiac Grand Prix GTP drag car I was intrigued, to say the least. Front wheel drive Grand Prix's are not something I usually associate with reaction times and tire smoke.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Riding Dirty: Global RallyCross Twin Peaks

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:27:42 -0700

Riding Dirty: Global RallyCross Twin Peaks

Seems we've developed something of a reputation; Griot's Garage likes clean cars. Fair enough. But when we recently had the chance to see high-horsepower rally cars battling door-to-door in the dirt, there was no way we were going to miss it. Armed with cameras and a love of anything that rolls (or flies) on rubber, we headed to the races.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Spray-On Car Wash: Ferrari Clean-Up

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 09:36:25 -0700

Spray-On Car Wash: Ferrari Clean-Up

After a recent road trip with his dad, Richard pulled this Ferrari 456 into the garage. They'd covered 1,700 miles and five states in four days, and we thought it'd be nice to clean up the old girl for him. But, in typical Northwest fashion, the cool weather and driving rain kept our hose and bucket stored away. So, we stayed inside and reached for the Spray-On Car Wash.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It! That's a Stretch Edition

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:33:17 -0700

Caption It! That's a Stretch Edition

Stretching is important to car guys. We stretch before a race, because getting kinked-up in the cockpit could spell disaster! We stretch before polishing our paint, because nothing's worse than mid-detail cramping, right? Some of us (not me) might even stretch the truth a little on our quarter-mile times. In the comments, caption this photo of a car whose owner clearly understands the importance of a good stretch. We'll pick the best one next Friday (the 29th) and award the winner a great Car Care prize ($29.99 Value)!

Read on and WIN...

Have fun in your garage!®

Visiting The Lamborghini Factory

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:40:03 -0700

Visiting The Lamborghini Factory

Ferruccio Lamborghini started as a tractor manufacturer. When success afforded him his first Ferrari, he was disappointed with the car and addressed his concerns with Enzo. He was told (as the story goes), "What do you know about sports cars? You're a tractor maker!" With that, Ferruccio made the half-hour drive home and determined to do better than Ferrari.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Brickwork: The LEGO Cars of Lino Martins

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:32:00 -0700

Brickwork: The LEGO Cars of Lino Martins

Like a lot of gearheads, I've always enjoyed building and collecting, even customizing scale models. When I ran across Lino Martins' LEGO builds in our Flickr group, I was floored. It's challenging enough to craft models from pre-molded parts with a full set of instructions. Lino does it with his imagination and a few bins of chunky bricks.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Retromobile Paris, 2011

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 16:16:17 -0700

Retromobile Paris, 2011

There are so many wonderful automotive events around the world, deciding which to attend can be challenging. Retromobile is certainly worth adding to your bucket list. 2011 was this event's 36th birthday and it was held in early February at the Porte De Versailles exhibition centre in Paris. There were 300 plus exhibitors and over 100,000 visitors over five days!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Dry Steam? How is that possible?

Mon, 4 Apr 2011 08:55:41 -0700

Dry Steam? How is that possible?

"You say your steam cleaner produces 'dry steam'. Since steam comes from water it can't really be dry, right?"

Excellent question! And while I didn't major in thermodynamics, after some time with our Product Specialist and a little extended research, I think I've got this one covered.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Minivans: Crunk or Junk?

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:38:23 -0700

Minivans: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? It's a question constantly under debate at IMG Headquarters. Submitted for your deciding votes this time is one that has everyone around here throwing in the micro fiber towel in stalemate. So, readers, what's the verdict on minivans? Crunk or Junk?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Do Want: Ford Raptor Edition

Tue, 1 Mar 2011 09:58:15 -0800

Do Want: Ford Raptor Edition

The first time I saw FORD screaming across the front grille of the Raptor, I would hardly say it was love at first sight. It was more of a "What the!?" moment. But something about this truck just made me want to know more... and now that I know, I think my admiration has reached an unhealthy level. The Ford Raptor: Do want.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Plum Crazy? 1973 Porsche 911S Restoration (part 2)

Tue, 8 Feb 2011 13:47:47 -0800

Plum Crazy? 1973 Porsche 911S Restoration (part 2)

In the first installment of this build, we showed you the tear-down of a well-used 911, and followed it through paint work. Now, take a look at the suspension and electrical work that was done. The before pictures show this car was driven hard! You'll be amazed at the attention to detail that went into restoration and reassembly.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

'65 NASCAR Impala: A Barn-to-Track Story

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:36:10 -0800

'65 NASCAR Impala: A Barn-to-Track Story

Hard to believe it now, but there was a time when regular Joes could drive a Chevy off the lot and straight into NASCAR. In 1965, with the help of friends, Roy Mayne did just that. His Impala SS was campaigned in 14 Grand National Races, then quietly garaged. Fast-forward to June, 2010. The car surfaces on Ebay, and as the gavel falls, Shaun Coleman readies his own team of friends.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Ohio-Florida Adventure

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:35:00 -0800

The Ohio-Florida Adventure

In the summer of 1941 my parents celebrated their honeymoon by driving a 1937 Buick from Dayton, Ohio to see friends in St. Petersburg, Florida. It was, of course, before the advent of Eisenhower's interstate highway system, so the entire trip was on state and county roads. "The Buick never let us down," my mother told me. "Your dad loved that car and I did, too."

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Heroes of the Asphalt

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:17:22 -0800

Heroes of the Asphalt

Everyone needs a hero... someone to believe in, who represents something we want to achieve or emulate ourselves. Mike and Mark recently shared stories about their family inspirations for automotive passion, and I wanted to keep going with the idea. So let's talk about some of the other car guys we call heroes.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Thankful...

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:15:51 -0800

Thankful...

Most car people will tell you there was someone in the past who sparked their interest. Me? I've been surrounded by fanatics as long as I can remember. It was inevitable I'd end up working in the industry and installing a revolving door on my garage. Especially in this season, when family is in extra-sharp focus, I'm thankful for those who lit the fire.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Thanks, Dad...

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 14:14:12 -0800

Thanks, Dad...

It's strange to me that when I was very young my father was more into cars, and as the years went by, my passion grew and his faded. Perhaps it was priorities and the pressures of raising a family. My father tells me that when he was young and growing up on a farm in the Panhandle of Texas he always loved cars.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Sloan Cars: Where Porsche Dreams Come True

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:01:13 -0800

Sloan Cars: Where Porsche Dreams Come True

For years, Porsche lovers have admired (and occasionally purchased from) the Sloan Cars collection, which spans over 50 rare and unique Porsches at any given time. Browsing the Sloan Cars website is like being in a candy-store. Recently I had the chance to talk with Richard and Brett Sloan to learn a little more about what they do.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 2010 SEMA Show in Photos

Tue, 9 Nov 2010 15:45:42 -0800

The 2010 SEMA Show in Photos

This was my 20th year attending the SEMA show in Las Vegas. Over the years many things have changed, but the wild cars and bikes are a constant! It's a feast for the eyes. The imagination, engineering, and outright wildness on display is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship inherent to our hobby. I always leave SEMA inspired to keep striving for perfection!

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Fall Motorcycle Clean-Up Part 2: The Polish & Wax

Wed, 3 Nov 2010 16:07:41 -0700

Fall Motorcycle Clean-Up Part 2: The Polish & Wax

In the previous installment, we went through the basics of cleaning and drying your bike. Now, let's look at how to perfect and protect your ride with polishing and waxing. Afterward, there will be no better looking bike on the block than yours. That is, of course, unless the friends and neighbors you've told about In My Garage have also been following along. You have told them, right?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Chevrolet Unplugs The New Volt at Griot's Garage

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:15:27 -0700

Chevrolet Unplugs The New Volt at Griot's Garage

With the Volt, Chevrolet is set to revolutionize the way we look at electric automobiles. To show the public just how cool these cars are, the automaker recently launched a cross-country tour, and Griot's Garage was honored to be chosen as the first stop, playing host to Chevrolet, excited test drivers, and a media entourage.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Sloan Cars: Where Porsche Dreams Come True

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:33:50 -0700

Some say heaven is a lot like this.

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 15:00:21 -0700

Some say heaven is a lot like this.

The E30 BMW M3 was a dominant force in late 1980's racing. Winning more road races than any other in model history is quite a feat. Watch Patrick Snijers pilot this M3 in the Manx Rally. He is always close to the edge, but the car holds on. Videos like this make it easy to see why the E30 M3 was so great. Try to watch it just once... I dare you.

See the video...

Have fun in your garage!®

The All-New Volvo S60 Launch Party in Photos

Wed, 6 Oct 2010 10:43:21 -0700

The All-New Volvo S60 Launch Party in Photos

Volvo of America chose Griot's Garage as the venue to celebrate the launch of its incredible, all-new S60 on September 26th. Hundreds of enthusiasts refused to let the rain dampen their spirits. Many brought their own vintage or customized Volvo's to be displayed alongside the new S60. One lucky attendee even won a trip for two to Sweden!

Read on and enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Restoring a Rare Eagle, Part 2: The Resurrection

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 10:03:36 -0700

Restoring a Rare Eagle, Part 2: The Resurrection

In Part 1 of our Gurney Eagle restoration, we took a look at the scope of the project, reviewed the history of the car, and started tearing it down. Recently, with the chassis and body work back from the paint shop, it was time for reassembly. The goal was to have the car in race-ready condition for the Monterey Motorsports Reunion in August. Did we make it?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 2010 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:11:27 -0700

The 2010 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

M-Car Day is marked on the calendar of any BMW enthusiast in the Pacific Northwest. On August 22nd, 170 M-Cars from almost every era filled the lawn and red-lined parking lot at Griot's Garage. We've compiled some of the best photographs of the event and welcome those of you that were there to include your own links in the comments!

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Fire-Up! Vintage McLaren Edition

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:38:25 -0700

Fire-Up! Vintage McLaren Edition

With the Auto Display in the new Griot's Garage HQ, we constantly have amazing cars on display for everyone to see. On rare occasions like today, we actually get to hear (and feel) some of these babies fired up. Today's treat, vintage McLaren. Check out a quick description of the cars, then scroll down for the videos!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Chrysler PT Cruiser: Crunk or Junk?

Tue, 3 Aug 2010 15:48:21 -0700

Chrysler PT Cruiser: Crunk or Junk?

July 9, 2010. A day that will live in... meh? On that day, the last of Chrysler's famously plucky little retromobiles rolled off a Mexican assembly line. Did you mark the occasion with somber ceremony or celebration? The time has come to ask (insert fake drum roll here), LADIES and GENTLEMEN: PT CRUISER, CRRRRRRRUNK or JUNNNK?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Plum Crazy? Restoring a Rough 911S

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:18:36 -0700

Plum Crazy? Restoring a Rough 911S

At Griot's Garage, we like cars. Fast cars, elegant cars, cars with style. We also believe in the preservation of cars as important documents of history and culture. Sometimes that job involves a nut-and-bolt restoration, as with the subject of this article, a 1973 Porsche 911S that likely lived most of its life parked next to - not inside - the garage.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Towels Part 3: The 8-Sided Towel

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:17:35 -0700

Car Care Towels Part 3: The 8-Sided Towel

If you've been reading the "Car Care Towels" series, you're already sold on micro fiber. And you know which towel to use when. Now, let's wrap things up with some tips that'll teach you how to take full advantage of those towels... and safely. No more waste. No more piles of half-used towels. And, of course, no more swirl marks!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Porsche Speedster Gets a Lift

Fri, 9 Jul 2010 11:51:50 -0700

Porsche Speedster Gets a Lift

When Griot's Garage President, Mark Greene, told me a generous customer was allowing us to showcase his 1957 Porsche Speedster, I was ecstatic. When he told me where he wanted the car displayed, I was floored. It's not every day you see an automobile like this. And I bet you've never seen one hoisted 12 feet into the air with a forklift!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 9: The Grand Opening in Pictures

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:41:15 -0700

A New Garage! Part 9: The Grand Opening in Pictures

June 5th and 6th, enthusiasts of all kinds stopped by to experience the grand opening of the flagship Griot's Garage Retail Store and Car Care School. Thousands of car guys and gals brought their favorite ride by to check out our new digs and shop their favorite line of car care. Here are some of our favorite photos from the weekend. Enjoy!

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Petersen Automotive Museum and Griot's Garage

Wed, 2 Jun 2010 15:47:40 -0700

Petersen Automotive Museum and Griot's Garage

Auto enthusiasts everywhere know that one of the world's premier museums lives in sunny Los Angeles. The Petersen Automotive Museum is 300,000 square feet of automotive history; a collection deserving of top-notch preservation. Which is why Griot's Garage is proud to now be the museum's Official Car Care Product Provider!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 8: The Grand Opening Celebration

Fri, 28 May 2010 15:31:51 -0700

A New Garage! Part 8: The Grand Opening Celebration

After a long winter and countless late nights in the garage, it's time to pull the cover off our barn find build and take it for a test drive. The best news? You are all invited to ride along! Help dedicate our new flagship Retail Store and Car Care School in style! Join us for two days of fun, food, and (of course) great cars. We look forward to seeing you here!

Get the details...

Have fun in your garage!®

Point/Counterpoint: What was 1932's keenest iron?

Thu, 20 May 2010 15:23:46 -0700

Point/Counterpoint: What was 1932's keenest iron?

Detroit is the battleground for one of the oldest automotive rivalries; Ford vs. Chevrolet. The competition has raged for decades, and with the carpocalypse in full swing, we are reminded of another challenging time in America. Let's look back to see where Ford and Chevy stood in 1932. Who built a car that spoke to the masses then, and still stands as king? Dustin and Derek sound off.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It! Half-Fast Edition

Fri, 14 May 2010 11:05:28 -0700

Caption It! Half-Fast Edition

Richard Griot doesn't accept anything "nearly right". So why did Griot's Garage recently take delivery of this beautiful, but partial Porsche? Caption this photo in the comments... we'll pick the best one next Friday (the 21st) and award the winner a Car Care prize! Also, check back for the full story on this cool roadster, built by our friends at Intermeccanica.

Caption it...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Towels Part 2: The Right Towel For The Job

Mon, 10 May 2010 14:21:43 -0700

A New Garage! Part 7: Open for Business

Now that you understand the benefits of micro fiber (if you missed the first article, read here), let's learn about which towel to use where. I'm going to step through the ten primary towels we offer at Griot's Garage, highlighting the benefits. I've even put together a cheat sheet you can print out and keep in your detailing kit!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 7: Open for Business

Wed, 5 May 2010 14:43:04 -0700

A New Garage! Part 7: Open for Business

We're ecstatic to announce that the flagship Griot's Garage Retail Store is open! While we put the finishing touches on the rest of our barn find build (in preparation for the grand opening in June), you're invited to check out the new store now. You'll be amazed at the transformation. Just take a look at the before and after photos!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 100 Coolest Cars of All Time. Ever.

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:52:25 -0700

The 100 Coolest Cars of All Time. Ever.

This could be my defining moment. The day you realize I am either a brilliant, savvy savant in the automotive blog world... or just a blathering idiot who had the audacity to put a Yugo on a list of the 100 coolest cars. It could also be the moment you realize some folks take these "Best Of" lists waayyy too seriously, and actually enjoy reading one for a change. Just throwing that out there.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 6: Rounding the Bend

Wed, 7 Apr 2010 11:14:50 -0700

A New Garage! Part 6: Rounding the Bend

You've had projects in your garage, so you know... There comes a time in every build where the finished product is in sight. Idea has transformed to rendering has transformed to reality. Just over a month ago, we showed you the progress on our barn find build and asked you to use your imagination. Now, you won't have to.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Towels Part 1: Micro Fiber

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:23:18 -0700

Featured Partner: The Motoring Journal

Shopping for proper car care towels can be exhausting. The options for fibers, weaves, colors, and sizes just go on, and on, and on. In this three-part series on Car Care Towels, I'm going to package everything you need to know into one simple, easy to understand box.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Featured Partner: The Motoring Journal

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:27:26 -0700

Featured Partner: The Motoring Journal

I'm constantly running across interesting car sites and enthusiast blogs. One that recently stuck out is Chris Runge's The Motoring Journal. Full of car stories, tech articles, and beautiful pictures, it's a dream for any car junkie. In My Garage is proud to announce The Motoring Journal as a Featured Partner!

See more Links & Resources...

Have fun in your garage!®

Michael Paul Smith's Model Community

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 09:51:46 -0800

Michael Paul Smith's Model Community

Homes and storefronts glow while snow blankets the sidewalks. Classic American iron lines every street, preserved, as if never driven. In fact, the auto dealership has a full lineup of ‘61 Chevy's, right off the truck. There is a quiet calm. A rightness. You can almost smell the apple pie. This is Elgin Park, and you'd probably like living here... if only it was full-scale.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Toyota Starlet: Crunk or Junk?

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 10:10:31 -0800

Toyota Starlet: Crunk or Junk?

The Toyota Starlet was a strange duck in the US, only being sold from 1981-1984 and quickly replaced by FX series Corollas and the Tercel line. Starlets were ugly, cheap, and small. But, they were also highly economical and easily modified. So, what's the verdict on these Japanese oddballs... crunk, or junk?

Weigh in...

Have fun in your garage!®

On the Lot: 1935 Ford Pick 'em up

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 10:08:44 -0800

On the Lot: 1935 Ford Pick 'em up

Clear skies never fail to bring out the cool rides. Blue Oval purists might want to look away, but we can guarantee you've never seen one exactly like this. A '35 Ford, originally a flatbed, now fitted with a Chevy long box. The powerplant is a fuel-injected, SBC... and this thing sounds great! Thanks to our customer for bringing it down to share.

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Crossword Challenge: 1950 Chrysler New Yorker

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:58:35 -0800

Crossword Challenge: 1950 Chrysler New Yorker

A beautiful, convertible New Yorker graces the cover of Griot's Garage Handbook #305. The big Chrysler is powered by a "Spitfire" straight-8 motor, mated to a "Prestomatic" fluid drive transmission. Gotta love those 1950's trade names! One of our customers has created a crossword puzzle using facts about car (and Griot's Garage) as clues. Check it out!

Enjoy the puzzle...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 5: Snapshots from the Beehive

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:10:16 -0800

A New Garage! Part 5: Snapshots from the Beehive

Work on the new Griot's Garage headquarters continues to buzz along, and a recent visit to the site saw Richard Griot beaming like a kid on Christmas. As he excitedly showed us around, stepping over chalk lines and dodging drywallers on stilts, we managed to snap a few photos of the action. Add these to the project scrapbook!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Restoring a Rare Eagle, Part 1: Chassis Teardown

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:07:30 -0800

Restoring a Rare Eagle, Part 1: Chassis Teardown

If you receive the Griot's Garage Handbook, you might remember this recent cover car, a 1966 Gurney Eagle Mk1. The very first of Dan Gurney's legendary race cars, chassis 101 is an important piece of American motoring history. And In My Garage is fortunate enough to be able to peek over some shoulders as the Eagle undergoes a full restoration.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: Vertorama Edition

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:14:29 -0800

From the Flickr Pool: Vertorama Edition

Vertorama is short for "vertical panorama" (stitching multiple photgraphs together vertically), and it's just one of the techniques Horace Kwan used to create this stunning image. The car is a Ferrari F2008 which, since it wears #1, was likely piloted by Kimi Räikkönen during the 2008 F1 season. Congrats, Horace. Enjoy your prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®

Garage Plus lets you (yes, you) own a Man Cave.

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 15:45:32 -0800

Garage Plus lets you (yes, you) own a Man Cave.

Our friends at Garage Plus thought way outside the storage unit box when they came up with this concept: Garage "condos" you can own and customize! As they say, your imagination is the only limit to what can be done with your personal toy box. We recently asked Michelle Simon of Garage Plus to share a little more about their project.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Guest Post: A Brief History of Japanese Classic Cars

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 14:48:09 -0800

Guest Post: A Brief History of Japanese Classic Cars

One of the fastest growing segments of the automotive scene is vintage Japanese cars. When I first started introducing people to the notion of a Japanese classic on behalf of Japanese Nostalgic Car Magazine, I got nothing but looks of confusion. So, let's begin with a brief history.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Don't Battle Your Wax: Proper Best of Show Application

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:34:53 -0800

Don't Battle Your Wax: Proper Best of Show Application

There's no questioning the remarkable finish Best of Show Wax gives, but occasionally we receive feedback from customers having difficulty removing the excess. For example... "Best of Show is a great product. The only down side is it takes a lot of elbow grease to get it buffed out perfectly." Fear not, the remedy is simple!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 4: Momentum

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:42:32 -0800

A New Garage! Part 4: Momentum

If you've ever restored or customized a car, you know there's a tipping point where the project just takes off. Plans have been refined and committed to memory, the vision is clear, and the tedious groundwork has been laid. It's a satisfying time. Every night when you turn out the garage lights, you've made real, tangible progress.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

New In My Garage "Links & Resources" Page

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 14:28:06 -0800

New In My Garage "Links & Resources" Page

Warning! Your productivity is about to take a nosedive! Check out our just-added links page, a collection of our favorite auto news sites, blogs, and car guy pages. We'll be updating it regularly, so check back often. Heck, why not use it as your daily web surfing start page? Guaranteed fresh, always kosher.

Get some here...

Have fun in your garage!®

Star Cars: Janis Joplin's 1965 Porsche 356c

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:52:22 -0800

Star Cars: Janis Joplin's 1965 Porsche 356c

It's hard to believe that, had she somehow found a way off the path of self-destruction, Janis Joplin would be turning 67 in a few days. America's first female rock superstar created a catalog of soulful music that has transcended generations. And, did you know, the singer who famously belted, "Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz" also left behind a pretty neat car?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Point/Counterpoint: What truck goes best with cowboy boots?

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 07:50:04 -0800

Point/Counterpoint: What truck goes best with cowboy boots?

On this day in 1901, a large hole drilled into a small hill outside Beaumont, Texas exploded to life. The Spindletop derrick spewed 3,000 gallons of oil a minute that day and enabled an young auto industry to expand at breakneck speed. Cars (and Texas) would never be the same. So, In My Garagers... 109 years later, the critical question arises: What truck goes best with cowboy boots?

Dustin and Derek weigh in. What say you?

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 3: Rolling Up Our Sleeves

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 16:16:23 -0800

A New Garage! Part 3: Rolling Up Our Sleeves

Anyone who's had a project car in the garage knows that it takes a certain "vision" to imagine what is possible. In our case, Richard Griot is the man with the vision... and the project is our garage! In the last update we gave you the history of our new digs. Since then, Richard has put his ideas into motion and the work has begun!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

In My Garage 2009

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:27:05 -0800

In My Garage 2009

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, we'd like to step back and thank all of you for reading, commenting, and sending us feedback. We launched In My Garage in 2009 to give you a peek inside Griot's Garage, to see the passion we have for cars, and to hopefully inspire you to have fun in your garage. Thanks for riding along... see you in 2010!

Some of our favorite posts from 2009...

Have fun in your garage!®

Top 5 Cars Least Likely to be Stolen

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:43:00 -0800

Top 5 Cars Least Likely to be Stolen

Every year about this time, the National Insurance Crime Bureau releases its list of America's most stolen cars. I always chuckle at the predictable (but apparently desirable) array of sedans and SUV's that top the list. For 2009, the Honda Civic and Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford F-150 sit atop the heap. It got me thinking... what modern cars would best repel would-be thieves?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Crossword Challenge: 1953 Siata 208CS Spyder

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:12:15 -0800

Crossword Challenge: 1953 Siata 208CS Spyder

This beautiful 1953 Siata was Best of Show runner-up at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours. Its owner (a Griot's Garage customer) was generous enough to share the car for an upcoming Handbook cover (#304). Meanwhile, another friend of ours created a fun crossword puzzle with facts about the Siata and Griot's Garage products as clues. We have the best customers!

Enjoy the puzzle...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It! "Project Car" Edition

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:18:04 -0800

Caption It! "Project Car" Edition

The release of our new Professional 3" Random Orbital has left a few of the first generation models lying around. Extra product like this can only mean one thing" it's time for a contest! Caption this photo in the comments, then we'll choose a winner next Wednesday (Dec 23) to win a FREE first-gen 3" Orbital. Enter as many times as you like!

You know the drill...

Have fun in your garage!®

Griot's Garage Donates to Festival of Trees

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:34:26 -0800

Griot's Garage Donates to Festival of Trees

Each year the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital & Health Center puts on a fundraising "Festival of Trees". This year, over a hundred Christmas trees were decorated by volunteers and then auctioned off, with over $300,000 in proceeds supporting the hospital. The trees were displayed and enjoyed by hundreds of people over two days.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Porsche Guys' Night in the Man Cave

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:33:11 -0800

Porsche Guys' Night in the Man Cave

There's something about cars that turns total strangers into friends in mere minutes. When a Porsche guru from Portland asked Richard Griot to join he and a bunch of buddies for dinner recently, Richard's reply was, "Maybe you should all come over and hang out in my garage instead." How could any red-blooded car guy refuse?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

On the Lot: 1948 Buick Roadmaster

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:31:33 -0800

On the Lot: 1948 Buick Roadmaster

Designed by Harley Earl, the 1948 Buick Roadmaster represented everything the American buying public wanted after World War II... style, power, and luxury. Our customer has owned this beautiful car for over 40 years! It's powered by a 320ci straight-eight, mated to Buick's famous Dynaflow transmission... and it is immaculate. We get all tingly inside whenever old iron like this pulls onto the lot.

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: Movement Edition

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 09:06:31 -0800

From the Flickr Pool: Movement Edition

Ford Fiesta Movement Agent, Davey G. Johnson, knows it's all about lighting. He snapped this winner on a photo excursion through the streets of Denver. We dig the way he captured the late night lights bouncing off the chrome and glossy paint of this old Chrysler. Well done, Davey! You're our latest Flickr pool winner. Enjoy your prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®

What we're asking Santa Griot to bring this year...

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 09:01:40 -0800

What we're asking Santa Griot to bring this year...

In the whirlwind of Holiday shopping it can be frustrating to find the perfect gift for the petrol head on your list. Rest assured... We at InMyGarage are always looking out for you. I stayed late one night and snuck through some desk drawers to compile a list of a few employee favorites at Griot's Garage this gift-giving season.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

5 Great Automotive Rivalries (and one "no-contest")

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:04:19 -0800

5 Great Automotive Rivalries (and one "no-contest")

Horsepower or Handling? Ford or Chevy? NASCAR or F1? The rivalry is an integral part of the automotive experience. Gearheads everywhere are completely aware of the biggest grudge-matches in motoring, and I thought I would take a chance to expose a few. On which side of the fence do you fall, and which classic rivalries would you add to the list?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Race on Sunday, Sell on Monday: Griot's GP Challenge in Photos

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:57:03 -0800

Race on Sunday, Sell on Monday: Griot's GP Challenge in Photos

After experiencing Pacific Grand Prix, we just had to share it. So, this past weekend we hosted the Griot's Garage GP Challenge event. The local BMW and Toyota clubs made strong showings, trying to "Beat the Griot" time. Brian, the Toyota club's ringer, ended up finishing .1 second ahead of the best Griot's Garage time and walked home with a new 3" Random Orbital. Congrats Brian!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

5 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Vehicles for Winter Storage

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:55:28 -0800

5 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Vehicles for Winter Storage

The rain is falling and the temperature is beginning to drop here at IMG HQ, which can only mean one thing... Old Man Winter is knocking and it's time to button up our track toys and weekend cruisers. I'm going to give you 5 easy steps to make sure your baby is turn-key ready when spring rolls around.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

It's the 2009 SEMA Show Mega-Post!

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 15:47:37 -0800

It's the 2009 SEMA Show Mega-Post!

Ok, so we can't promise this will actually be a "mega-post". We're not even sure what that means (though it does sound catchy). What we can say is that our man Steve is taking in the sights at SEMA 2009, and sending pics to make the rest of us jealous. Bookmark and check back to see the latest!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Rat Rod RV: Crunk or Junk?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:09:02 -0700

Rat Rod RV: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? It's a question we constantly debate at IMG Headquarters. Here is the latest installment: We spotted this recreational vehicle revitalization in Frisco, Colorado. Now it's up to you to decide... Crunk or Junk?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Track Day at Pacific Grand Prix

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:49:16 -0700

Track Day at Pacific Grand Prix

Paul Zalud's 11-year dream project was completed four months ago, bringing one of the coolest karting facilities in the world to the Pacific Northwest. Knowing a few of us at In My Garage might be interested (yeah, uh huh... "might"), he invited us out last Thursday for a little track time. This job is never boring, but days like that really stand out.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Top 5 Griot's Garage Covers - What's your favorite?

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:44:38 -0700

Top 5 Griot's Garage Covers - What's your favorite?

We recently mailed the 300th Griot's Garage Handbook, a milestone Richard Griot only dreamed of when he sent the first book in 1991. Over the years, we've had the opportunity to meet some great enthusiasts, and spend time learning about and photographing their prized cars. Here are the Top 5 Covers, as voted by our Associates.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

The Car Coozie: It'll Have You in Stitches

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:23:36 -0700

The Car Coozie: It'll Have You in Stitches

In 2006, English art student Lauren Porter took 10 months and used 12 miles of yarn to create a 1:1 Ferrari that really puts Grandma's tissue box covers to shame. We think she was on to something, and it's only a matter of time before someone markets "Car Coozies". Dress up that old Ford Probe! Cover your embarrassing Chevy Vega!

See the pictures...

Have fun in your garage!®

Point/Counterpoint: What was 1982's Awesomest Car?

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:14:48 -0700

Point/Counterpoint: What was 1982's Awesomest Car?

On this day in 1982, John DeLorean was arrested on charges of drug trafficking, in an apparent attempt to keep his failing car company afloat. Econo-boxes ruled the day, and GM was bringing us bummers like the Cimarron and a 90hp Camaro. Times were not gnarly in the auto industry, but let's see if Derek and Dustin can find the awesome.

Gentlemen, make your points...

Have fun in your garage!®

On the Lot: 1967 Camaro RS/SS

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 10:06:11 -0700

On the Lot: 1967 Camaro RS/SS

Since we're having an amazing "Indian Summer" in the Pacific Northwest, the collector cars still keep showing up at Griot's Garage. A great customer showed up today with his 1967 Camaro RS/SS, a numbers-matching car with a 350ci and Muncie M21 transmission. It was painted over six years ago but looks like they just finished wet sanding!

Enjoy the pics...

Have fun in your garage!®

Dirty Pictures: The Art of Scott Wade

Thu, 1 Oct 2009 10:26:17 -0700

Dirty Pictures: The Art of Scott Wade

I’m sure you'll agree there's nothing quite like cruising in a freshly washed and detailed car. But there's also something about a dirty back window that awakens the inner child. Who hasn't written "wash me" on their parents' car after a road trip? Well, Scott Wade takes that classic scrawl to a whole new level. For him, dusty glass is an irresistible blank canvas.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Gearhead Hobbies: What's yours?

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:27:12 -0700

Gearhead Hobbies: What's yours?

What does it take to call yourself a true car guy? For me, being a gearhead is an overall obsession with everything even remotely related to automobiles, and it comes out in my hobbies. Slot cars, scale models, memorbilia, books, vintage parts, tattoo's, vacations to car museums. Nevermind the weekly beg-and-plead with my wife to name our first daughter Lexus or Porsche. Sad, isn't it?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth vs. Car Quotable: Daniel-san Edition

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:39:53 -0700

Car Care Myth vs. Car Quotable: Daniel-san Edition

"Wax on, right hand. Wax off, left hand. Breathe in through nose, out through mouth. Wax on, wax off. Don't forget to breathe, very important." - Mr. Miyagi, in The Karate Kid (1984)

Old Miyagi knew crane kicks and bonsai trees, but his car care techniques leave something to be desired.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 2: The Barn Find

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:38:07 -0700

A New Garage! Part 2: The Barn Find

Maybe you've experienced something like this... You hear a rumor that there is something special nearby - lying neglected, hidden, almost forgotten. You find the spot, and coax the owner into letting you take a peek inside. The barn doors creak open and there, waiting patiently in the dark and covered with years of dust, is your next project.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Blackout 1942 Chevy Coupe

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:29:18 -0700

Blackout 1942 Chevy Coupe

After the raid on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. entered World War II on December 8, 1941. Automakers were ordered to curtail the use of brightwork (chrome and stainless trim) within one month, and to cease production of passenger cars altogether within two. That first mandate led to a rare and interesting run of cars... the blackout specials.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: Koenigsegg at Silverstone

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:04:34 -0700

From the Flickr Pool: Koenigsegg at Silverstone

Some shutterbugs will go to great lengths to get the perfect shot. Just ask Tim Scott of Fluid Images. To capture this moment at England's Silverstone Raceway, he rigged a camera to the side of the car and triggered the shutter by remote while following behind. You're our latest Flickr photo pool winner, Tim. Enjoy your car care prize!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Guess What I Drove!

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:03:03 -0700

Guess What I Drove!

I am a fan boy. I'll be big enough to admit it. I love all things Ferrari. And although I know a new one is most likely a long shot for me (or never going to happen), I still feel a pounding in my heart and a gripping twist in my gut every time I see one... or hear the magical sounds of a Ferrari motor. So when the chance came for me to get behind the wheel last summer, I jumped with all 6 cylinders.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Boys' Night Out: Thursdays in the Garage

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:05:42 -0700

Boys' Night Out: Thursdays in the Garage

There's a lot that goes on behind the scenes at Griot's Garage. Bringing the best Car Care, tools, accessories, and garage gadgets to market takes time and dedication. It also means some late nights out in the garage testing and perfecting. Here's the story of a time-honored research-and-development tradition... Thursday Boys' Night Out.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

A New Garage! Part 1: The Announcement

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:02:23 -0700

A New Garage! Part 1: The Announcement

In 1991, Richard Griot mailed the first Griot's Garage handbook from a small office in Vista, California. That catalog struck a major chord with automotive enthusiasts, and in 1994 Richard relocated the company to a large facility in Tacoma, Washington. Well, we’re still growing, and we're on the move again!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

What's the best example of automotive "green marketing"?

Thu, 3 Sep 2009 15:32:28 -0700

What's the best example of automotive "green marketing"?

Throughout the summer, Fiat created an oasis in the middle of Milan by using full-scale fiberglass models of the automaker's 500C cars as tree planters. The flora-toting Fiats were positioned on otherwise tree-less streets to "make the summer more liveable in the Lombardy capital." Is it genius, or greenwashing?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It!

Tue, 1 Sep 2009 14:30:01 -0700

Caption It!

Our last "Caption It" contest drew some hilarious entries. So let's do it again! Hot rodders sure are an eclectic bunch, as evidenced by this shot we took at the Spokane, WA Goodguys event a couple weeks back. Caption it in the comments, then we'll choose a winner next Friday (the 11th) and award a car care prize. Dude! Free car care!

Go to the comments...

Have fun in your garage!®

2009 Puget Sound Toyota Owners Festival

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:31:28 -0700

2009 Puget Sound Toyota Owners Festival

August 30, the quirky and passionate Toyota crowd came out to Griot's Garage for the 5th annual Puget Sound Toyota Owners Festival hosted by PSTOC. Over 150 cars swung by, representing everything in the Toyota family! The event was also a Toys for Tots fundraiser that filled the entire bed of a pickup with new toys for less fortunate kids.

Enjoy the pictures...

Have fun in your garage!®

10 Things You'll Never Hear in My Garage

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:29:48 -0700

10 Things You'll Never Hear in My Garage

Our garages are a sanctuary. There are unspoken rules and codes passed down through the generations before us about proper conduct in the cave. And let's be honest, there are some things that just don't (or shouldn't) fly within those four walls, right? Here's my list... what are the things you'd never hear (or want to hear) in your garage?

Read the list...

Have fun in your garage!®

The 2009 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:49:35 -0700

The 2009 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

August 23, enthusiasts of BMW's most exciting road cars gathered at the Griot's Garage shop for a celebration of all things M. 138 cars were in attendance, both old and new. It was a day of great food, friends, and family fun. Enjoy our photos, and drop a link in the comments if you've got some of your own!

See the pics...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable - Jade Grenade Edition

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:18:43 -0700

Car Quotable - Jade Grenade Edition

"It wasn't a bad run, but after the third flip I lost control." - Don Roberts, professional drag racer.

New England Dragway, April 20, 1975. It would be Don Roberts' first ride in the top fuel dragster, "Jade Grenade"... and his last trip ever down the quarter-mile.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth: Dish Soap Makes a Great Car Wash!

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:48:24 -0700

Car Care Myth: Dish Soap Makes a Great Car Wash!

Our previous Car Care Myth article cleared up the misconceptions about waterless car washes. Now, while we are on the subject of car washing, let's talk about dish soap as car wash. Let me begin by saying, hearing about this rarely gives me any joy, so I hope after this article there will be a new dawn of car wash understanding.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: Fast Sitting Still

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:22:58 -0700

From the Flickr Pool: Fast Sitting Still

Got any cool car photos? Share 'em on the InMyGarage Flickr Group and you just might win a prize. Group member John Hietter was in the right place at the right time to get this shot of a city bus rolling past a Lamborghini LP640 Roadster. We love the way this Lambo creeps out of the shadows. Great capture... enjoy your car care prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®

Oddballs: Top 5 Three-Wheeled Vehicles

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 10:56:49 -0700

Oddballs: Top 5 Three-Wheeled Vehicles

It's no secret that even-number-wheeled vehicles rule the streets. So, on the rare occasion when you see something with three, you've gotta take the time to give it a second look! I've dug through the oddball archive to bring you my Top 5 three-wheelers. What would you add to the list?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Concours d'LeMons Set to Underwhelm at Monterey

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:30:19 -0700

Concours d'LeMons Set to Underwhelm at Monterey

"Tired of paying $150 to see 150 identical Ferraris? Concours d'LeMons costs 20 bucks and has 20 Pacers and Pintos." So reads the marketing teaser for a gathering of the automotive world's most abominably awesome creations. Heading to Monterey this weekend? Leave your straw hat in the Bentley and check out some real rides.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth: Waterless car wash will damage my paint!

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:54:08 -0700

Car Care Myth: Waterless car wash will damage my paint!

It's drought season, and with water restrictions becoming more common, I'm sure you've seen a flood (forgive the pun) of waterless car washes hitting the market. As you may be, I was very skeptical. Washing my car without water? Are you nuts?!?!! However, now that I understand and have used them, let me say... I am a believer!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Porsche 944 Trailer: Crunk or Junk?

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:52:18 -0700

Porsche 944 Trailer: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? This is the question under constant debate at InMyGarage. Here's the latest installment submitted for your consideration: Spotted at the Porsche Parade in Keystone, Colorado, it's a Porsche 944 pulling a trailer built from... uhh, another 944.

See the beauty, the majesty...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable - War on Speed Edition

Wed, 5 Aug 2009 11:12:28 -0700

Car Quotable - War on Speed Edition

The Internet's been buzzing about Jeremy Clarkson's final segment on this week's episode of Top Gear. With the so-called "War on Speed" raging strong, this older quote from him falls right into place: "You can't rationalize cars like these. They're not something you buy with your head, you buy them with your heart because you love them, and who can explain love?"

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Report from the Road: Intermeccanica Tour 2009

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 14:48:25 -0700

Report from the Road: Intermeccanica Tour 2009

Intermeccanica has been building specialty cars for the past 50 years. Founded by Frank Reisner in Turin Italy, their history is vast and interesting. Frank's son Henry runs the company now, and every summer hosts a tour and BBQ to thank customers and friends for their business. This was the second tour I've attended, and the event was definitely one to remember.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

My Great American Road Trip

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:56:47 -0700

My Great American Road Trip

We've all been on one. I'm sure if you think about the road trips you've taken, you can't help but crack a smile at the adventures. What better thing to do in these challenging times than get back to enjoying simple pleasures, close to home, with family and friends? That's what I was thinking when a late night eBay purchase led to one of my favorite family vacations with my four children!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Eduardo Venegas: A Passion for Porsche

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:31:10 -0700

Eduardo Venegas: A Passion for Porsche

As I was walking around the Porsche Parade in Keystone, CO this year, I was asked by a kindly gentleman to take a peek at the 911E he would be presenting at the concours the next day. Little did I know I was meeting an enthusiast who has the attitude and passion to reignite anyone's love of automobilia.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth: All 100% Cotton Towels are 100% Cotton

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:40:01 -0700

Car Care Myth: All 100% Cotton Towels are 100% Cotton

In the last installment of our Car Care Myths series, I cleared up the differences between polish and wax. Are you ready for some more myth busting? Okay... save the bath towels for your morning shower, step away from the old t-shirt, and for the love of all that is sacred in car care, leave the diapers on your babies. It's time to dispel the myth that all cotton towels are created equal.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Aces: Cars of The King's Men Poker Run

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:17:49 -0700

Aces: Cars of The King's Men Poker Run

They were lined up around the block most of the morning. Hot rods, customs, and classics of every flavor descended on the Griot's Garage shop this morning for a poker run hosted by the King's Men Car Club. Enjoy the photos, and be sure to check out the Goodguys show this weekend to see these (and tons of other) awesome rides.

See the Photos...

Have fun in your garage!®

Caption It!

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:25:11 -0700

Caption It!

We snapped this photo during the recent Porsche 356 Club show-n-shine at Griot's Garage... and it needs a caption. This is where you come in. Submit as many as you'd like in the comments. We'll pick the best one next Friday (July 31) and give the winner a cool car care prize. Yes, it's true... people really do win at InMyGarage!

Click through leave your caption...

Have fun in your garage!®

Introducing: The New Griot’s Garage Random Orbital

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:59:57 -0700

Introducing: The New Griot's Garage Random Orbital

The original Griot's Garage Random Orbital (left) was an instant classic. It represented Richard Griot's life's work, and gave thousands of customers an easy and safe way to polish their paint to perfection. So with the recent launch of an all-new machine, you might be wondering, "What makes this latest version so much better?" Well, I'll tell you!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Relics - 1972 Maserati Ghibli

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:52:13 -0700

Relics - 1972 Maserati Ghibli

We spotted this rare Maserati Ghibli at last year's Seattle Italian Concours. What initially struck us were the big, bold lines and curves! Ghibli's were built to be a comfortable "gentlemen’s GT", competing with the raw track power of the Ferrari Daytona. We love the statement this car makes... you don't see curves like this on your Mom's minivan. Let us know what you think!

See the photo...

Have fun in your garage!®

Porsches 2 Oxford Preview: It's a casual Porsche party!

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:48:36 -0700

Porsches 2 Oxford Preview: It's a casual Porsche party!

Griot's Garage is pleased to be involved with Porsches 2 Oxford, taking place July 25. "A casual Porsche party", this event gives attendees the opportunity to hang out in a great uptown area with like-minded enthusiasts. P2O is a "can't-miss" for Porsche lovers. In My Garage spoke with key player Brice Kadel about what makes the event special.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable - Then & Now Edition

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:23:16 -0700

Car Quotable - Then & Now Edition

In 1909, Scientific American said, "That the automobile has practically reached the limit of its development is suggested by the fact that during the past year no improvements of a radical nature have been introduced."

We reached the peak of automotive achievement in 1909? Somebody forgot to tell Colin Chapman and Pinin Farina.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust Part 6: The Finish Line

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:13:47 -0700

SoCal or Bust Part 6: The Finish Line

Day 5 started early. We had gotten a good night's sleep and woken to the sounds of splashing water. Yep, the pool would be where we spent this day. Now, when a bunch of sunburned car nerds (in an appropriately grown-up manner, of course) test the effects of grain alcohol, stories will result. Some of those stories cannot be shared on the Internet. Let's move on to Day 6.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Night Chariots: The Top 5 Cars of Pizza Delivery

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:40:59 -0700

Night Chariots: The Top 5 Cars of Pizza Delivery

It's 11:00pm on a Saturday, and you're being overwhelmed by a creeping hunger. A call to your favorite pizza joint brings the dreaded, "about 45 minutes". Time slows, hunger pangs tear you apart. Just as you think hope is gone, you hear the familiar rumble of a neglected engine, the squeal of barren brakes against warped rotors.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth: Wax is Polish is Wax

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:39:14 -0700

Car Care Myth: Wax is Polish is Wax

In my first Car Care Myth article, I shed some light on what's in your carnauba wax. Now, let's look at one of the more baffling terminology distinctions in the world of care care... polish vs. wax. These two words have been confused and misused longer than Audi and Mercedes have been trying to build a car better than the M3.

Let's put the battle to bed...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool: Low-Down, Dirty Rat

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:01:57 -0700

From the Flickr Pool: Low-Down, Dirty Rat

There's just so much that's right about this shot from our Flickr Group member, Chad Lunn. Great perspective and composition, awesome contrast, and just enough black to let us know this menacing hot rod is not to be trifled with. Thanks for being part of our group, Chad. Enjoy your car care prize!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

5 Must-Have Car Goodies for Kids. Okay, 4.

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:17:14 -0700

5 Must-Have Car Goodies for Kids. Okay, 4.

The birthing classes are over, the baby showers have been completed, and with a month to go, it's finally time for me to take care of the real priorities... scouring the internet for all the necessities my son will need during his first few years in the pits. Here are 4 ridiculously awesome car gifts for kids (and 1 that's just plain ridiculous).

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust Part 5: The Reason For Our Trip

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:11:23 -0700

SoCal or Bust Part 5: The Reason For Our Trip

Day 4 was supposed to start at 5:00am with us taking care of the last few details on Don's Celica. It kind of did. I think a few of us were just-then closing our eyes (from the night of one too many libations) and others were just plain lazy and slept in. No matter, we were on the road by 5:45am (only a little late) and ready to take Southern Cali by storm.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

BAM! POW! A Father’s Day Bat Story!

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:16:38 -0700

BAM! POW! A Father's Day Bat Story!

When I was growing up I had two fathers. One drove my Great Grandfather's Medium Green Ford LTD; the other woke me up every morning with his 1975 Ferrari 308GT4. Now before you go thinking that I was raised in an automotive household surrounded by cool cars, my Real Father will admit quite the opposite was true.

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Satch Carlson Sounds Off

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:03:50 -0700

Satch Carlson Sounds Off

I'm a BMW fanatic. So when I heard Satch Carlson (outspoken Editor-In-Chief of Roundel) would be attending our annual E30 Picnic, I jumped at the chance to talk with him. I also tossed out an opportunity for you to join in the conversation with this BMW icon.

I hope you enjoy the article!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust Part 4: Sun, Fun, and Slowing Down

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:17:09 -0700

SoCal or Bust Part 4: Sun, Fun, and Slowing Down

In Part 3 of our road trip to ToyotaFest, you'll recall that I didn't have the good sense to stay out of San Francisco Bay. Well, on this day we'd all end up wet (and not regret it for a second). We got to the house where we were crashing about 1:45am, so day 3 didn't get moving until 10. And even then, it never really got moving too fast. Perfect.

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Have fun in your garage!®

What's the best vehicle for summer road trips?

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:35:20 -0700

What's the best vehicle for summer road trips?

Richard Griot built this bitchin' 1972 Suburban, loaded up his kids, and hit the road bound for Yellowstone Park. My dad once bought an old V-dub Westfalia just for a road trip to Frisco, then sold it when we got home. It's an age-old tradition, from the Grapes of Wrath, to the Griswolds, right down to you and me. So...

What's your ultimate rig for summer road-tripping?

Have fun in your garage!®

Date with a Rolls-Royce, Part 1: Life Before Photoshop

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:04:00 -0700

Date with a Rolls-Royce, Part 1: Life Before Photoshop

Just before I graduated from college I fell into the perfect job, as print advertising manager for the old Nationwise Auto Parts based in Columbus, Ohio. If you lived anywhere near I-75 from Ohio to Florida between 1965 and 1990 you must have visited one of our stores to change your oil, or buy a rebuilt alternator.

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Commenter of the Week - Aww Shucks Edition

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:31:03 -0700

Commenter of the Week - Aww Shucks Edition

For sharing "27 years worth of mom advice" with our own IMG blogger, Dustin (and the world, on the Internets)... and for reminding us that mother is always watching, this week's star commenter is Dustin's mom. Now, about that homemade soup... Monday's good for us.

Readers, don't forget to give Mom a hug this Father's Day!

Have fun in your garage!®

The E30 Picnic is over...

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:55:27 -0700

The E30 Picnic is over...

and I'm already thinking about next year. My life revolves around the first weekend in June. The E30 Picnic is December 31st on my automotive calendar. It's the target date for project completion, followed shortly thereafter by 'resolutions' for where my car will be next year (I'd like to see mine lose a little weight and quit smoking).

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust Part 3: Doin’ the Polar Bear Plunge

Tue, 9 Jun 2009 08:02:49 -0700

SoCal or Bust Part 2: That Portland Voodoo

Part 2 of this car show road trip saw us drifting off to Sleepyland with visions of peacocks and shotguns dancing in our heads. The next morning, however, would come with a bluebird on our shoulders. The first Wired of the day was downed before dawn, and we were itching to find a car wash to brush the bugs from our cars' teeth.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust Part 2: That Portland Voodoo

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 10:33:00 -0700

SoCal or Bust Part 2: That Portland Voodoo

When I left you in Part 1, our crew was setting out from Tacoma in the early morning hours, bound for the City of Roses, Portland... and eventually, Long Beach.

The rain had timed itself perfectly for our departure. Typical. Spend hours and hours and hours detailing, pull the car out of the garage, and it starts pouring.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Ask Satch and win a car care prize!

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 11:38:32 -0700

Ask Satch and win a car care prize!

If you've never heard of Satch Carlson, you are missing out on one of the most entertaining and opinionated car guys out there today (think Jeremy Clarkson without the curly hair and English accent). This Saturday, I'll be sitting down to chat with Satch and want to know...

What would you ask this fixture of automotive world?

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Care Myth: My Wax is 100% Carnauba!

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 09:27:54 -0700

Car Care Myth: My Wax is 100% Carnauba!

Exaggerated marketing and plain old misinformation have created a confusing bunch of car care assumptions. I’m here to bust some of the most common myths, and give you the information you need to make informed decisions about caring for your prized possessions.

First stop on the truth train: Carnauba wax content!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

SoCal or Bust, Part 1: Saddling Up

Tue, 2 Jun 2009 14:20:06 -0700

SoCal or Bust, Part 1: Saddling Up

I don't often drive 1,800 miles for a six-hour car show, but that's what happened recently when, along with several other members of the Puget Sound Toyota Owners Club, I decided to make the trip to Long Beach for the Toyota Owners and Restorers Club 14th annual ToyotaFest.

Say it along with me now... Road trip!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

1979 Chrysler Cordoba: Crunk or Junk?

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:52:36 -0700

1979 Chrysler Cordoba: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? This is the question we were debating this morning at IMG Headquarters when, lo and behold, one of our customers sent in a photo of his beloved 1979 Cordoba.

So, what do you think? Is this 'Doba crunk... or junk?

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Scrappy little fella, aren't ya?

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:50:51 -0700

Scrappy little fella, aren't ya?

A walk through the local Mini dealer today revealed one customer’s attitude toward big blocks! To be fair, and with apologies to the continental owner of the marque, when did the UK ever produce a V8 worth it’s weight in tea???

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Car Quotable

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:49:08 -0700

Car Quotable

"Racing is a matter of spirit, not strength." - Janet Guthrie

The first woman to compete in the Indy 500 and Daytona 500 races, Janet Guthrie knows a thing or two about the racing spirit. Her diverse background led to great achievements both on and off the track.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

On the Lot: Superformance Cobra

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:49:51 -0700

On the Lot: Superformance Cobra

I had to grab the camera when I heard this '66 Cobra replica roaring in. I took my time enjoying all the angles while the owner shopped in our retail store. Superformance did an excellent job replicating the handiwork done by the original builders back in '66... had me fooled until the owner, John, shared the car's story.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Tire Care Secrets Part 2: Dressing

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:47:17 -0700

Tire Care Secrets Part 2: Dressing

You've all cleaned your tires after yesterday's Tire Cleaning article, so let's get to the fun stuff... tire dressings! The importance of dressings is two-fold; 1) protect the tires, and 2) make them look great. The definition of protection is pretty consistent, but we all have our own ideas of what finish looks good on a tire.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

From the Flickr Pool...

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:45:05 -0700

From the Flickr Pool...

Have some car pics you'd like to share? Head over to flickr, join the new In My Garage photo pool, and upload your best. Every month we'll pick one and give the photographer a prize! This month's winner is Schrementi, for a cool shot of his Porsche basking in sunshine and blue skies. Congrats, and keep 'em coming!

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Have fun in your garage!®

Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:43:41 -0700

Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

"I spent hours detailing my car. Everything looks great except the tires, which are still brown and grungy. What can I do to make them look as good as the rest of the car?"

Great question (and one I hear often). The answer breaks down into two parts, which I'll cover in detail today and tomorrow" Part 1, Tire Cleaning!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Rising Sun: Top 5 Vintage Japanese Speed

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:34:33 -0700

Rising Sun: Top 5 Vintage Japanese Speed

The words "vintage Japanese sports car" may not fit together in some peoples' minds, but it's a category near and dear to my heart. Ask again tomorrow and I'm sure the list would be different (there are too many I love), but here are the 5 coolest vintage Japanese sports cars, as decided by me, this particular minute of this day.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Steve Anderson: Pictures of Perfection

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:31:59 -0700

Steve Anderson: Pictures of Perfection

Is it possible to capture the essence of an automobile with mere ink and paint? For artist Steve Anderson, it's an everyday thing... this magician of the marker creates fantastic, gallery-worthy automotive illustrations. Let’s hear what he has to say about cars, the creative process, and the future of the automotive industry.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Burnout at 1000 Frames Per Second

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:18:20 -0700

Burnout at 1000 Frames Per Second

Carfilms has unearthed this awesome dragster footage from 1969, filmed at 1000 frames per second. Watch for exhaust pulses hitting the tire smoke as the big rubber spins around like it's on crisco. Unreal!

Turn up the speakers for this one, kiddies.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:16:06 -0700

Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

"I spent hours detailing my car. Everything looks great except the tires, which are still brown and grungy. What can I do to make them look as good as the rest of the car?"

Great question (and one I hear often). The answer breaks down into two parts, which I'll cover in detail today and tomorrow... Part 1, Tire Cleaning!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

What's your low-budge dream machine?

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:13:31 -0700

What's your low-budge dream machine?

Here's a variation on a question we've all debated on elementary school playgrounds. Back then, it was simple: "What's your dream car?" Ah, to be so care-free again.

Ok, grownups, tighten your wallets for the 2009 version: "If you could own any car under $30k, what would it be?"

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®

Parts as Art

Tue, 26 May 2009 08:07:31 -0700

Parts as Art

You know a true car guy when everything is a reflection of the motor oil that runs through his blood. Where some people see junk and scrap metal in old parts, a car guy sees soul and maybe even art.

My piston business card holder tells a thousand stories.

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Have fun in your garage!®

Redline Coffee: Fuel for Gearheads

Tue, 26 May 2009 09:41:18 -0800

Redline Coffee: Fuel for Gearheads

Roasted beans are big business, and it seems like a new coffee is born every day. In fact, sifting through the infinite combinations of brands, blends, and roasts (not to mention clever packaging and marketing) can be intimidating.

But a coffee for car guys? Ok, I'll bite. Err... sip.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®