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2024 Daytona 500 Qualifying Format 101

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Seventy days after the final checkered flag of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season flew, the time until the first green flag of the 2024 Cup Series season displays is four days away from occurring. For the teams and competitors who enter this season with the desire to gain a competitive edge over one another, the long regular-season battle to the Playoffs commences with this weekend’s 66th annual running of the Great American Race.

The Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway, with the event’s iconic Haley J. Earl Trophy, is up for grabs and epic bragging rights to forever be labeled a Daytona 500 champion.

Before this year’s Daytona 500 occurs, however, the teams and competitors will have to battle amongst one another through the event’s iconic two-day qualifying procedure that would enable them to achieve and earn a starting spot as high as possible over one another. What makes the Daytona 500’s qualifying procedure iconic?

In comparison to 35 of 36 scheduled events where the starting grid for a Cup Series event is determined one day before the main event, the qualifying format for the Daytona 500 is distinct, where it once took a week until the starting lineup for the Daytona 500 is determined. Since the 2021 season, it would take between three and four days until the official starting grid for the Great American Race would be determined.

The qualifying format for this year’s Daytona 500 commences with a single-car qualifying procedure on Wednesday, February 14, where each of the registered competitors (42 total in 2024) will run one timed lap around the 2.5-mile superspeedway venue. The single-car qualifying procedure will span two rounds, with the second round featuring the top 10 fastest competitors to contend for the pole position for the Daytona 500. At the conclusion of the second qualifying session, the competitor who generates the fastest lap time will be awarded the Busch Light Pole Award for the Daytona 500 while the competitor who generates the second-fastest lap time will be awarded the second-place starting spot for the 500-mile season opener, thus guaranteeing both front row starting spots for the main event.

The single-car qualifying procedure/sessions on Wednesday will also be a night of epic rewards for two competitors competing in open-chart (“open”) entries, meaning that their respective cars are not guaranteed a starting spot for the Daytona 500 due to not having a charter. At the conclusion of the single-car qualifying procedure, the top two open-chartered competitors who post the top two fastest qualifying times compared to the remaining open-chartered competitors will be guaranteed starting spots for the Great American Race based on their qualifying speed.

The rest of the competitors, including the open-charted teams currently not guaranteed a starting spot, will battle one another for their official starting spots for the Daytona 500 through a pair of Bluegreen Vacation Duels at Daytona that will occur on Thursday, February 15.

The first Bluegreen Vacation Duel at Daytona will consist of competitors who qualified in the odd positions during Wednesday’s single-car qualifying procedure, including the Daytona 500 pole winner, with the event spanning 60 laps. The second Duel event that will follow suit and also span 60 laps will consist of competitors who qualified in the even positions during the qualifying procedure, including the Daytona 500 second-place starter.

At the conclusion of both Duel events, the winning competitor in each Duel will be awarded the second-row starting spots, third and fourth place, for the Daytona 500. In the scenario where the Daytona 500 pole winner or second-place starter wins their respective Duel events while also retaining the front-row starting spots for the Great American Race, the third- and fourth-place starting spot will be awarded to the runner-up finisher between both Duel events.

Each finishing result in the first Duel event will determine the official starting lineup for the odd (“inside lane”) row for the Daytona 500, with the winner starting in third place for the 500, second starting fifth, third starting seventh, etc., in the respective order, while the finishing result in the second Duel event will determine the lineup for the even (“outside lane”) row for the 500, with the winner starting in fourth place, second starting sixth, third starting eighth, etc. In addition, the top-10 finishing competitors between both Duel events will be awarded points that count towards the regular-season stretch but not towards the Playoffs, with the winning competitor receiving 10 points while the 10th-place finisher receives just one.

Lastly and transitioning back to the theme of open-charter teams, the highest-finishing non-chartered competitor between both Duel events will secure a starting spot for the Daytona 500. If the highest-finishing non-chartered competitor in a Duel happens to be a competitor who is already guaranteed a starting spot for the 500 based on Wednesday’s single-car qualifying procedure, the next fastest non-chartered competitor will be awarded a spot in the Great American Race.

Upon completion of both Duel events, the starting spots 1st through 40th for this year’s 66th annual running of the Daytona 500 will be officially determined in preparation for the main event that will occur on Sunday, February 18. Even before the main event, the qualified Cup Series teams and competitors will then practice around Daytona once on Friday, February 16, at 5:35 p.m. ET on FS1 before practicing for the second and final time on Saturday, February 17, at 10:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

The 2024 Daytona 500 entry list features 42 competitors registered to battle for 40 starting spots for the main event, meaning that two non-chartered competitors will not make the main event on Sunday, February 18. This year’s open-chartered competitors feature Anthony Alfredo, Kaz Grala, Jimmie Johnson, BJ McLeod and David Ragan. NY Racing, a non-chartered team, is also entered for this weekend’s event, though a driver has yet to be named. From this list of six, two names will have their names locked into the 500 after Wednesday’s single-car qualifying procedure and two more will be locked in after Thursday’s Duels.

Currently, Johnson is the only non-chartered competitor from last season to return for another bid to claim a starting spot for this year’s 500. The seven-time Cup Series champion and two-time Daytona 500 champion from El Cajon, California, raced his way into last year’s 500 based on his qualifying speed and during his first event as a driver/co-owner of Legacy Motor Club. Returning for his first of nine planned Cup events this season, Johnson, who was also inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in mid-January, will bid for his 21st start and potentially his third victory in the Great American Race.

Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Earlier on Tuesday, February 13, the qualifying order for Wednesday’s single-car qualifying procedure was determined based on a random draw, where the ordered competitors will roll off of pit lane to post a single qualifying lap and contend for pole position for the Daytona 500. Following the random draw, newcomer Carson Hocevar will qualify first followed by Anthony Alfredo, Zane Smith, Ryan Preece, Justin Haley, David Ragan, AJ Allmendinger, BJ McLeod, John Hunter Nemechek and Riley Herbst.

2024 Daytona 500 Qualifying Order

This past season, Alex Bowman notched his third pole award and his sixth consecutive front-row starting spot for the Daytona 500 after the Tucson, Arizona, native posted a pole-winning lap at 181.686 mph in 49.536 seconds, where he shared the front row with teammate Kyle Larson. Bowman’s 2023 Daytona 500 pole also marked the eighth 500 pole award in nine years for Hendrick Motorsports and the 11th consecutive year where the Chevrolet nameplate achieved a pole for the Great American Race. Bowman will attempt to join Buddy Baker, Bill Elliott and Cale Yarborough in achieving the most Daytona 500 poles with four entering the 2024 season while Larson will attempt to win his second 500 pole after winning his first in 2022.

During the 2023 Daytona Speedweeks, Joey Logano and Aric Almirola each won a Bluegreen Vacations Duel while Ricky Stenhouse Jr. would proceed to win the 65th running of the Daytona 500 amid two overtime shootouts and emerging out in front of Logano and the field prior to a final multi-car wreck. Stenhouse’s victory made him the 42nd different competitor to win the Great American Race as he also delivered the first 500 victory for JTG-Daugherty Racing and veteran crew chief Mike Kelley. Stenhouse and Logano, the 2015 Daytona 500 champion, are set to contend for this year’s 500 event as full-time Cup Series competitors for JTG-Daugherty Racing and Team Penske, respectively, while Almirola has scaled back to the Xfinity Series on a part-time basis with Joe Gibbs Racing.

Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2024 Daytona 500 Qualifying session is scheduled to occur on Wednesday, February 14, and air at 8:15 p.m. ET on FS1. The Bluegreen Vacations Duel at Daytona will follow suit on Thursday, February 15, and air beginning at 7 p.m. ET on FS1. The 66th running of the Daytona 500 is scheduled to commence on Sunday, February 18, and air at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.

LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Race Preview | DAYTONA 500

By
Official Release
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BROADCAST INFO
DUEL RACES | THURSDAY, FEB. 15 | 7:00 PM ET
DAYTONA 500 | SUNDAY, FEB. 18 | 2:30 PM ET

CLUB ENTRANTS
JOHN HUNTER NEMECHEK
ERIK JONES
JIMMIE JOHNSON

CLUB NOTES

One more makes 84: Jimmie Johnson currently sits tied for sixth with Hall of Famer Cale Yarborough on the NASCAR all-time wins list with 83. His next win will tie him with Bobby Allison and Darrel Waltrip, who are tied for fifth on the all-time win list.

Fit for a “King”: The familiar “Petty Blue” paint scheme is inspired by the iconic Chrysler Plymouth Petty raced to victory in the 1964 Daytona 500, which led to his first NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Together, Johnson and Carvana designed a car that mimics some of the most noteworthy details that made Petty’s car so timeless, including the chrome accents and white lettering. Adorned with the “Petty 75” logo, the Camry XSE also showcases the horsepower on the side of the hood, as was tradition in the earlier days of the sport.

Creed on board: Johnson will have the award-winning band Creed’s insignia in associate placement on the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE. Creed is celebrating their forty-city North American tour, called the “Summer of ’99” Tour. Due to fan demand, the band has extended their tour with an additional twenty dates under the “Are You Ready Tour?” banner. Produced by Live Nation, the tour launches on July 17th and will run through December 5th.

More than a racer: The Erik Jones Foundation and AdventHealth have joined forces to donate a new book vending machine to Blue Lake Elementary School less than 30 minutes away from the track in Deland, Florida. This book vending machine will be used to encourage young students to pick up a book and become more involved in their studies. With “igniting children’s passion for reading” as a key pillar of the Erik Jones Foundation, Jones hopes that these book vending machine projects will be the catalyst in a lifetime of reading and achievement for young students.

Skincare in the Sunshine State: AdventHealth looks to promote whole-person care in the fan midway during Speedweeks, with a focus on skincare and sun protection. The Erik Jones Foundation will have a presence within the activation to distribute sun protection packages to fans. In addition, the Erik Jones Foundation will have a location at the “Toyota Beach” in the fan midway of Daytona International Speedway. Fans are encouraged to stop by both locations for sun protection tips to stay safe during the race week in the Sunshine State.

The Big Game: Jones and his wife Holly had the opportunity to knock off a bucket list item after heading to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for Super Bowl LVIII. Despite his hometown Detroit Lions losing to the 49ers in the conference championship, Jones couldn’t turn down a chance to go to “The Big Game.” Other ties to the game? LEGACY M.C. Co-owner Maury Gallagher who is the Chairman/CEO of Allegiant Airlines is also the Chair of the Super Bowl committee for Las Vegas.

Hidden gems: Jones will sport some important icons on his No. 43 AdventHealth Toyota Camry as he will represent the pillars of the Erik Jones Foundation. Located right above the rear wheel wells, fans will find a book representing early childhood literacy, a dog collar for animal welfare, and a ribbon to symbolize early cancer detection and care.

Guess who’s back: After spending the past three years “betting on himself” in the NASCAR Truck Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series, John Hunter Nemechek makes his regular-season return to the Cup Series. Joining him atop the pit box is a familiar name in Ben Beshore, who served as his Xfinity Series crew chief in 2023. The pair won seven NXS races last season and finished fourth in the championship standings.

JHN superspeedway stats: Sunday will be only Nemechek’s second career start in the DAYTONA 500, but he brings noteworthy superspeedway results to the table. Two of his three top-10 finishes in the Cup Series came at Talladega Superspeedway and he is a past NXS winner at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He has yet to compete at a drafting track in a NextGen car, however, so this week brings a new challenge.

Double duty: Saturday’s United Rentals 300 will see Nemechek back behind the wheel of the Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 Pye-Barker GR Supra. Nemechek will make a total of 10 NASCAR Xfinity Series starts this year in addition to his Cup Series driving duties. The season opener will be televised on FS1 at 5:00 PM ET.

Welcoming new partners to the Club: Several new partnerships have been formed leading into the Club’s 2024 campaign. Dollar Tree and Family Dollar recently announced a 38-race, multi-year agreement in which at least one of the Club entrants will have each brand as a primary sponsor for every race this season. AdventHealth will be the primary race for nine events this season, six with Jones and three with Jimmie Johnson. Carvana returns for their fourth year as a partner of Johnson for three races. Through its relationship with Toyota, automotive tools industry leader GEARWRENCH has signed on to support the Club’s efforts. Pye-Barker, ROMCO, and grocery store brands, all, Dial, Persil, Snuggle, and BajaVida Beef Jerky have followed Nemechek to the Cup Series. Mobil 1 also extended its partnership with Toyota teams to include primary sponsorship of the No. 42 later in the year.

CLUB QUOTES

John Hunter Nemechek, Driver of the No. 42 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

On starting out the season strong: “I feel like Daytona is a wildcard in itself starting off the year with our Super Bowl. It’s a huge race; the DAYTONA 500 is super historical, and we’re trying to get the best finish possible from a points standpoint. It would be huge to win and lock ourselves in, but you can put yourself behind quite a bit to start the year if you get caught up in a big one and don’t get any stage points. There’s a lot of emphasis on going there and running the best we can on the No. 42 Dollar Tree team.”

On his first superspeedway start in the NextGen Car: “I’m just gonna go rip it!”

Ben Beshore, Crew chief of the No. 42 Dollar Tree Toyota Camry XSE:

On the importance of manufacturer alliances at Daytona: “Working together is crucial just so we’re on the same page. I think we’ve seen a lot of the general strategy at the speedways is to pit with your manufacturer, and with us having some more numbers here, hopefully having three cars in the field added onto the previous six that Toyota has had, that should give us an equal playing field with Chevy and Ford in terms of numbers. I think Toyota does a really good job of communicating between the teams and getting everyone on the same page prior to the race.”

Erik Jones, Driver of the No. 43 AdventHealth Toyota Camry XSE:

On what makes someone a good driver at Daytona: “I think being a good driver at Daytona is a combination of having a car that is fast enough to do what you need it to do, knowing how the draft is going to go, how the runs are going to come at you, and where you need to be in position at the end of the day to have a shot to win. Making it to the end is important and tough as well at times, so it is a combination of both the car and how the draft works out for us.”

On the book vending machine project and the significance of the AdventHealth partnership: “The book vending machine has been pretty fun, not only because of the vending machine itself but also seeing tracks come on board and now sponsors with AdventHealth who is helping us get a vending machine to Blue Lake Elementary the week of Daytona. So, I have been having fun with it, reading is a huge pillar of our foundation, and it has grown to be bigger and bigger in our foundation throughout the last few years. The book vending machine has really expedited that process. It is super neat to have AdventHealth latch on to that, help us out with the Erik Jones Foundation, and hopefully continue to grow that as well.”

Dave Elenz, Crew chief of the No. 43 AdventHealthToyota Camry XSE:

On having a strong setup vs. making sure you have a consistent draft partner and pit strategy: “Set up is probably the most important aspect of Daytona, draft partners and pit strategy are obviously important, but when it comes down to the end of the race there are going to be guys that are out of the race and there are going to be a bunch of wrecks, so you need a car that is capable of being pushed and pushing without being tight or loose and causing that big wreck. I feel like car setup is probably our most important aspect going into Daytona.”

Jimmie Johnson, Driver of the No. 84 Carvana Toyota Camry XSE:

On driving through the tunnel for the first time to start Speedweeks: “Just driving through the tunnel at Daytona for the first time and entering the infield and the magnitude of the speedway is revealed – it just never gets old. Seeing all the campers and every getting set up for a week of racing never gets old for me. It’s a familiar feeling and its excitement and anticipation of what’s to come.”

On his superspeedway racing mentality: “Plate racing is such a different kind of race. For me, we will have a strategy going in but for the most part, you are just surviving stage by stage. I try not to let the nerves get to me and stay as chill as possible before we get in the car. Winning an event like the DAYTONA 500 is so important to everyone and for a driver’s career. The DAYTONA 500 champion is a title that stays with you forever, and to become a 500 champion enters you as a driver in the record books. There is just so much pride in accomplishing it.”

On Carvana honoring Richard Petty for the DAYTONA 500 livery: “My relationship with Richard, Kyle and the whole Petty family is so meaningful to me and my goal was to celebrate their enduring LEGACY with this design.”

Jason Burdett, Crew chief of the No. 84 Carvana Toyota Camry XSE:

On his first DAYTONA 500 with Jimmie Johnson: ”I’m excited to go to Daytona with Jimmie. When you set out as a crew chief one of your goals is always to win the DAYTONA 500. So to go down there as a crew chief with this opportunity to accomplish that with Jimmie is exciting. Not only does Jimmie drive he is a co-owner and all of this really means a lot to him. Once we get through the first part of the week the reality will set in on the opportunity in front of us so I’m looking forward to that.”

On qualifying for the DAYTONA 500: “As a crew chief you worry about all the things that can happen that are out of your control. We have a good car, TRD has great engines and everyone at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB has done a great job this off-season in giving us the resources we need to be able to go down there, put down a good lap, and lock ourselves into the DAYTONA 500. If we can do that Wednesday we can go learn on Thursday’s draft and not have the pressure to race our way in. The Carvana Toyota Camry XSE looks great and we will see where we net out Wednesday night in qualifying.”

Chris Hall, Director of Pit Crew Operations:

On building a team of pit crew athletes and their series debut at Daytona: “This offseason has been a lot of fun. It has been a challenge finding guys to come on board at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, I feel like we got a bit of a late start there, but I think we ended up very fortunate in finding the caliber of athlete that we did. We have had a great offseason with some amazing partner announcements and just really riding high on the work ethic and momentum of our team. I am really excited for Speedweeks and what 2024 has for us.”

On what a successful day in Daytona looks like for the pit crew: “When I am thinking about Daytona and what a successful day looks like for us, obviously you want to keep your driver and team in contention, don’t make the big mistake. You have to take what the car gives you, it’s a race of attrition as we all know, so being there at the end is very important. That doesn’t matter if you are racing the car or pitting the car, you have to be there at the end to have a shot. So hopefully one of our three Toyotas can be there at the end.”

PETTY 75TH ANNIVERSARY

The 2024 season marks a significant milestone in the history of the Petty family as they have helped define stock car racing for 75 years. Their commitment to the sport and the people who make it possible – behind the wheel, under the hood, in the back office and beyond – has shaped the growth and success of NASCAR. Their LEGACY lives on with the countless fans, drivers, technicians and team members they touched. Throughout 2024, LEGACY M.C. will celebrate the Petty family and share countless memories with friends and fans at race tracks across the country.

Petty75: The Petty family has a rich history in Daytona. Lee Petty raced on the beach in the early 50s along with the inaugural Daytona 500 where he won by less than a yard and was not declared winner until three days later. Richard Petty holds a record-breaking seven Daytona 500 wins and a personal best 74 starts at the track. The Petty family spreads the wealth at the World Center of Racing, with wins between Lee, Richard, and Maurice Petty as crew chief in 1970 with Pete Hamilton. The Petty family tree doesn’t stop there, Maurice’s son Ritchie Petty ran the No. 53 during the July race in both 1993 and 1994 competing against his cousin Kyle Petty in both contests.

Discover the Thrill of Playing Online Card Games at Betiton Casino

By
SM
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Photo by Alp Duran on Unsplash

The exciting world of online gaming has captured the attention of millions worldwide, but there’s nothing quite like the adrenaline rush experienced when playing card games at Betiton Casino. Whether you’re a seasoned poker player looking to try your hand at blackjack or a newcomer seeking a thrilling game with high stakes, this online casino offers it all. Offering various attractive bonuses, players get an added edge in their gameplay and an enhanced gambling experience.

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6 Tips to Help You if Your Vehicle Breaks Down While Traveling

By
SM
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Photo by Jonathan Reynaga

Breaking down while traveling can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar area, making car towing Liverpool an essential service. Not only does it disrupt your plans, but it can also put you in potentially dangerous situations. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can easily handle these unexpected situations.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss six tips to help you if your vehicle breaks down while traveling. These tips will ensure your safety and help you get back on the road as quickly and smoothly as possible. Let’s get started.

Move Your Car to a Safe Location

When your vehicle breaks down while traveling, the first and most important step is to move it to a safe location. This could be the shoulder of the road, a nearby parking lot, or an emergency stopping area. It’s crucial to get your car out of the flow of traffic to avoid any potential accidents or hazards.

To safely move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights and use hand signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers. If you’re unable to move the car or if it’s unsafe to do so, it’s best to stay put and follow the next steps. Remember, safety should always be your top priority in this situation.

Turn on Hazard Lights and Use Road Flares

Once you’ve moved your vehicle to a safe location, it’s essential to turn on your hazard lights and use road flares or triangles to warn other drivers of your presence. This will help prevent potential accidents.

If you don’t have road flares or triangles, you can also use a reflective vest or a flashlight to make yourself more visible to others. Remember to place the hazard lights at least 200 feet behind your vehicle and in front of it. This will give other drivers enough time to see your car and slow down or change lanes if needed.

Call a Towing Service

If you’re unable to fix the issue yourself, it’s best to call a reputable towing service for assistance. You can find a reliable towing company by doing a quick internet search or asking for recommendations from locals. For instance, you can find towing services in Vancouver to help you if you’re traveling in that area. When calling for help, make sure to provide your exact location and a detailed description of the issue with your vehicle.

A towing company will safely tow your vehicle to a nearby mechanic or garage, where they can diagnose and fix the issue. Having the contact information of a reliable towing service beforehand can save you time and stress in this situation.

It’s important to have contact information for a local car towing that can come out as soon as you experience unexpected breakdowns. Quick response times can make a big difference in ensuring your safety and minimizing delays on the road.

Stay in Your Vehicle

In most cases, it’s best to stay inside your vehicle while waiting for assistance. This will keep you safe from any potential hazards on the road and protect you from harsh weather conditions. It’s also easier for others to spot your car if you remain inside, making it easier for them to assist you.

If you’re in a remote area or feel unsafe staying in your vehicle, make sure to find a safe place nearby and stay within sight of your car. Avoid walking on busy roads or in areas with limited visibility. Remember, your safety should always come first.

Have a Basic Emergency Kit

It’s essential to have a basic emergency kit in your vehicle at all times, especially when traveling. This kit can include items like a flashlight, extra batteries, a reflective vest, road flares or triangles, jumper cables, and a basic toolkit.

Having these items on hand can help you in small emergencies, such as a dead battery or a flat tire. It’s also a good idea to keep some non-perishable snacks and water in your kit, as well as any necessary medication if you have any health conditions. Being prepared with an emergency kit can make all the difference in handling unexpected situations.

Take Preventative Measures

Photo by Attentie Attentie on Unsplash

Last but not least, taking preventative measures can help reduce the chances of your vehicle breaking down while traveling. Regularly servicing your car, checking tire pressure and tread depth, and topping up fluids can all help prevent issues on the road.

It’s also a good idea to plan your route beforehand and have a backup plan in case of any road closures or detours. Additionally, make sure to have a fully charged phone and emergency contacts programmed into it before embarking on your trip.

Breaking down while traveling can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. However, by following these 6 tips, you can ensure your safety and get back on the road as quickly as possible. Remember to always prioritize safety, have an emergency kit on hand, and take preventative measures to reduce the chances of your vehicle breaking down in the first place.

BMW Service Lights Explained: What Your Car Is Telling You

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SM
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Photo by Zan on Unsplash

Understanding the various service lights on a BMW dashboard isn’t just about vehicle maintenance–it’s also a dialogue between you and your car. These indicators, from gentle reminders to urgent alerts, serve to keep you informed about its health and safety. This guide demystifies these indicators so BMW owners can take proactive steps toward maintaining the performance and longevity of their BMW vehicles.

An Introduction to the BMW Service Light System.

At the core of your BMW’s dashboard lies an advanced monitoring system called Condition-Based Service (CBS). Unlike traditional indicators, CBS tailors maintenance reminders to your driving habits to ensure your car gets care exactly when it needs it. But what do these lights signify and how should you respond?

Decoding BMW Dashboard Lights

Interpreting the lights on your BMW dashboard, particularly engine service lights is crucial for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Engine Service Lights: These indicators serve as an instant line of communication from your car, notifying you of its various health states or issues that need addressing.

Check Engine Light This familiar signal can indicate issues ranging from loose gas caps to engine problems that need immediate attention to prevent further damage. Its light may either remain steady for routine check-up or blink rapidly indicating an urgent situation, and timely diagnosis with a scanner helps identify its precise cause so major repairs don’t occur and optimal performance remains attained.

Service Engine Soon: This less urgent alert suggests your BMW could require regular servicing or minor issue check-ups, such as oil changes or spark plug replacement. Although not an immediate threat, addressing it immediately could help ensure efficiency and reliability for years to come.

Responding swiftly and promptly when both lights illuminate preserves your BMW’s condition, guaranteeing a safer and smoother drive.

Vehicle Maintainance

Vehicle maintenance lights must always be on in your car or other type of vehicle for safe driving conditions. Vehicle maintenance lights on your BMW dashboard are intended to ensure that key components remain in top shape, serving as preventative measures against wear-and-tear damage that could worsen over time. Let’s examine these vital maintenance indicators in more depth.

Oil Change Indicator: Oil is essential to keeping your BMW running at peak condition and increasing engine lifespan, providing lubrication that lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and keeps things cool. Your oil change indicator light serves as a crucial reminder that it’s time to replace old with fresh oil; replacing dirty or depleted oil prevents engine damage caused by degraded or dirty oil and helps prolong its life span. After conducting an oil change service, remembering to reset this indicator accurately will help your engine remain in peak condition while increasing engine lifespan by keeping track of when its next oil change is due ensuring optimal engine health over time and prolonging its lifespan!

Brake Pad Warning Light: Your vehicle’s brake system is essential to its safety, enabling you to stop under any circumstances. When the brake pad warning light illuminates, this indicates that your brake pads have reached their minimum thickness and require replacement. Due to friction created when braking, over time brake pads wear down over time due to wear and tear. Ignoring this warning could result in reduced braking efficiency, increased stopping distances, and possibly hazardous driving conditions; timely replacement ensures your BMW maintains peak braking performance and keeps you safe on the road!

Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM): Maintaining correct tire pressure levels for your BMW is vitally important for its handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity. When one or more tires become significantly under or over-inflated, the Tire Pressure Monitor light illuminates to alert you. Uneven pressure can lead to uneven wear patterns, reduced traction, or blowouts posing serious safety threats; using this alert as a prompt helps ensure consistent tire pressures at manufacturer-recommended levels – leading to smoother driving experiences, enhanced safety features, and the prevention of premature tire wear-off. Regular monitoring contributes towards smoother driving experiences, enhanced safety features as well as prevention of premature tire wear-off.

Safety and Warning Lights

Safety and Warning Lights Your BMW dashboard’s safety and warning lights play a vital role in its overall safety system, alerting you of potential issues that could compromise its protective features or driving stability.

Airbag System Light: Your airbag system is one of the most critical safety features on your vehicle, intended to offer vital protection in case of an accident. When its indicator light illuminates, this indicates a fault in its operation – from sensor issues or problems with its own deployment mechanism, such as failure of deployment in crashes – increasing risk and increasing potential injury risk. Urgent diagnostic and repair by qualified technicians must occur to restore functionality for your own protection.

ABS Warning Light: Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABSs) help drivers maintain steering control during harsh braking conditions by preventing their wheels from locking up during emergency stops, helping drivers maintain steering control and avoid skidding. When an ABS warning light illuminates, this indicates a problem within this system that may affect its ability to avoid wheel lock-up during sudden stops or slippery conditions; driving without fully functional ABS increases accident risks significantly and requires immediate repair in order for it to function optimally. To keep our roads safe from accidents we must repair our ABS systems so as to keep driving accident risks to a minimum!

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Indicator: Your BMW’s DSC system works to increase stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction during cornering or sudden maneuvers, with its indicator lighting up when there is an issue within its stability control system that could compromise its handling or safety. When this occurs, prompt action must be taken promptly in order to continue providing optimal stability and traction control across a wide range of driving conditions.

Advanced Feature Indicators

Here are some more indicators

Adaptive Headlight Warning: BMWs equipped with adaptive lighting systems automatically adjust the direction and range of their headlights according to vehicle speed, steering angle, darkness levels, and steering angle – improving visibility during night driving as well as in curves. When an adaptive headlight warning light illuminates it indicates a malfunction in this system that could decrease visibility or increase the risk of accidents; its proper functioning is vitally important to safe driving during low light conditions or at night.

Battery Charge Warning Light: This light is essential for monitoring the health of your BMW’s electrical system, such as its battery and charging system. When illuminated, this indicates an issue with either its ability to hold a charge or with a charging system that could result in engine shutdown or engine start failure – such as a failing alternator, loose battery connection, or dead battery. Addressing these warnings immediately can prevent you from becoming stranded while guaranteeing its electrical components function reliably.

Tips for Responding to BMW Service Lights

Maintaining the performance and safety of your BMW requires responding effectively to its service lights. These indicators serve two functions – they notify of immediate issues as well as remind you about upcoming maintenance needs – with alerts requiring immediate attention being distinguished from alerts that suggest routine servicing needs. Here are some expanded tips on handling these situations with DIY checks.

Immediate Action vs. Routine Service

Immediate Action Needed: Certain warning lights indicate issues requiring prompt attention, in order to reduce potential damage or safety risks. For instance, when seeing warning lights such as the Check Engine Light, Airbag System Light, or ABS Warning Light illuminated, immediate professional diagnostics and repair should be sought immediately – such systems play a vital role in maintaining vehicle safety and operation integrity and malfunctions can significantly compromise them.

Routine Service: Lights such as the Oil Change Indicator or Service Engine Soon can serve as indicators of scheduled maintenance needs for your BMW vehicle. While they don’t usually pose immediate threats to its performance, neglecting them over time could lead to more significant problems that require timely attention in order to maintain optimal conditions and prevent more serious wear-and-tear problems from developing further. Scheduling these services promptly is key in keeping it running at peak condition while helping prevent wear-and-tear from turning into serious problems down the line.

Selecting a Qualified BMW Repair Shop

Choosing a qualified BMW repair shop is crucial, as their expert technicians have the knowledge and tools needed to quickly identify and fix any issues with your vehicle. They’re especially useful in servicing complex systems like Condition Based Service (CBS), as it ensure repairs and maintenance are carried out to the highest standards. Furthermore, selecting an accredited service center ensures any replacement parts will be of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) quality or equivalent – safeguarding the integrity and performance of your ride!

DIY Checks and Maintenance

Before taking your car into a repair shop, there may be several simple maintenance and diagnostic tasks you can perform yourself that could potentially address the warning light issue without professional intervention.

Tighten Your Gas Cap: A loose or improperly sealed gas cap may activate the Check Engine Light due to fuel system pressure discrepancies, often resolved simply by tightening it until it clicks firmly shut.

Checking Tire Pressure: Your BMW’s Tire Pressure Monitor light illuminates when your tires become significantly under or over-inflated, prompting you to use a reliable tire pressure gauge and compare each tire against the recommended pressures found in its manual or on the inside driver door panel. Adjust the pressure as necessary for optimal performance and safety.

Inspection of Fluid Levels: Low levels of essential vehicle fluids such as engine oil, coolant, or brake fluid can sometimes trigger warning lights. Use dipsticks or reservoir indicators to inspect these levels and replenish as required according to your vehicle manual’s recommendations.

Doing a few basic DIY checks on your own can often prevent unnecessary visits to the repair shop for issues that can easily be handled at home. However, if warning lights continue to illuminate after doing these tests, it’s essential to consult a professional in order to diagnose and address any potential underlying problems.

Conclusion

BMW service lights are more than mere indicators; they serve as an advanced system designed to communicate your vehicle’s needs and keep it in optimal condition. By understanding what these alerts mean and taking the appropriate actions to address them, you can keep your BMW running optimally while prolonging its performance, safety, and lifespan. Regular maintenance guided by this alert system is key for maintaining an extended relationship with your vehicle.

NASCAR schedule for Daytona Speedweek

By
Angie Campbell
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Photo by Patrick Sue-Chan for SpeedwayMedia.com.

The 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season officially begins Sunday, Feb. 18 with the Daytona 500. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has been named as the Grand Marshal for the event which will be broadcast at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX with radio coverage provided by MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Leading up to the race, on Feb. 15 at 10 p.m., the FOX Sports documentary, “I am Kevin Harvick,” will premiere on FS1.

All times are Eastern

Wednesday, Feb. 14
8:15 p.m. Cup Series Daytona 500 Qualifying – FS1/MRN/SiriusXM (Impound) (Single Vehicle / 1 Lap / 2 Rounds)
Post-NCS Qualifying: Press Pass Live

Thursday, Feb. 15
4:05 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series Practice – No TV
5:05 p.m.: Craftsman Truck Series Practice – FS1
7 p.m.: Cup Series Bluegreen Vacations Duel 1, 60 laps – FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
8:45 p.m. (approx.): Bluegreen Vacations Duel 2, 60 laps – FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Post Duels: Press Pass Live

Friday, Feb. 16
1:30 p.m.: ARCA Menards Series Qualifying – No TV
3 p.m.: Truck Series Qualifying – FS1/MRN (Impound) (Single Vehicle /1 Lap /2 Rounds)
4:35 p.m.: Xfinity Series Practice – FS1/MRN
5:35 p.m.: Cup Series Practice – FS1/MRN
7:30 p.m.: Truck Series Fresh from Florida 250 (Stages 20/40/100 Laps=250 Miles) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM
Post Truck Series Race: Press Pass Live 10:30 p.m.: Daytona ARCA 200 (80 Laps, 200 Miles) – Originally scheduled for Saturday, time is approximate (after the conclusion of the Truck Series race). The broadcast will start on FS2 and then move to FS1 after college basketball.

Saturday, Feb. 17
10:30 a.m.: Cup Series Final Practice – FS1/MRN – Canceled
1:30 p.m.: Xfinity Series Qualifying – FS1/MRN (Impound) (Single Vehicle / 1 Lap / 2 Rounds)
1:30 p.m.: Daytona ARCA 200 – Moved to Friday night after the Truck Series race
4 p.m.: Xfinity Series United Rentals 300 (Stages 30/60/120 Laps = 300 Miles) FS1/MRN/SiriusXM – Postponed to Monday at approximately 9 p.m.
Post Xfinity Series Race: Press Pass Live

Sunday, Feb. 18
4:30 p.m.: Cup Series Daytona 500 – FOX/MRN/SiriusXM – Postponed to Monday at 4 p.m. (Stages 65/130/200 Laps = 500 Miles)
Post Cup Series Race: Press Pass Live

ALL-PRO AUTO RECONDITIONING TO PARTNER WITH WILLIAM BYRON AND THE NO. 24 TEAM IN 2024

By
Official Release
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NEW HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS SPONSORSHIP INCLUDES BRANDING ON NO. 24 UNIFORMS, TRANSPORTER AND EQUIPMENT

CONCORD, N.C. (Feb. 13, 2024) – All-Pro Auto Reconditioning, a company that offers car dealers a complete line of automotive repair and restoration services, has joined 14-time NASCAR Cup Series champions Hendrick Motorsports as an associate sponsor of driver William Byron and the No. 24 team in 2024 and 2025.

Founded in 1994 and operating in more than 20 states, All-Pro Auto Reconditioning will have branding placement on the No. 24 transporter, pit boxes and uniforms of the driver and team. The new partnership will kick off with Sunday’s DAYTONA 500 (2:30 p.m. ET on FOX).

“Partnering with the Hendrick Motorsports family has felt like a natural fit from the beginning, making this sponsorship an effortless decision,” said Brett Boettcher, president of operations, All-Pro Auto Reconditioning. “This marks a new chapter for All-Pro Auto Reconditioning – one that we are incredibly excited to embark upon. With our shared commitment to excellence and unwavering focus on our customers and teams, we’re confident this partnership will be a huge success for many years to come.”

Byron, 26, is coming off a career-best season at stock car racing’s premier level, having finished third in the final 2023 Cup standings with a series-leading six victories. Last year, the Charlotte, North Carolina, native collected 15 top-five finishes, 21 top-10s and 1,016 laps led – all personal-best totals. He also made history by collecting Hendrick Motorsports’ milestone 300th Cup Series win during the playoffs at Texas Motor Speedway.

“It’s exciting to start off the season with a new partner for the No. 24 team,” Byron said. “We had a really good year in 2023, but our goal is to continue to improve our performance. Our team wants to push the boundaries for success, and we’re happy to have All-Pro Auto Reconditioning on board while we do that.”

In 2024, All-Pro Auto Reconditioning will recognize its 30th anniversary while Hendrick Motorsports celebrates its 40th in NASCAR. The team is the all-time Cup Series leader in every major statistical category, including championships (14) and points-paying victories (301) since entering the sport in 1984.

“It’s a special year for Hendrick Motorsports, and we’re pleased to welcome All-Pro during an important time in their history as well,” said Jeff Gordon, vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports. “The No. 24 team was a consistent frontrunner last year, and we certainly expect that to continue in 2024 and long into the future. William is emerging as one of the brightest young stars in NASCAR, and it’s exciting to have All-Pro along for the ride.”

ABOUT ALL-PRO AUTO RECONDITIONING:
Established in 1994, All-Pro Auto Reconditioning began as a single dealer operation in Houston, Texas, but has since expanded its reach to serve over 200 dealers nationwide, boasting a workforce of more than 1,200 associates. With a foundation built on hands-on expertise, the leadership at All-Pro brings a wealth of knowledge from various facets of the automotive industry. Specializing in returning vehicles to a like-new condition, All-Pro offers dealers a comprehensive range of reconditioning services, including paint repair, wheel refurbishing, paintless dent removal, detailing, paint protection films, interior repair, and more. Renowned as the industry leader in mobile vehicle reconditioning, All-Pro sets the standard for excellence in automotive restoration.

ABOUT HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS:
Founded by Rick Hendrick in 1984, Hendrick Motorsports is the winningest team in NASCAR Cup Series history. At the sport’s premier level, the organization holds the all-time records in every major statistical category, including championships (14), points-paying race victories (301) and laps led (nearly 80,000). It has earned at least one race win in a record 39 different seasons, including an active streak of 38 in a row (1986-2023). Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024, the team fields four full-time Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 entries in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Alex Bowman, William Byron, Chase Elliott and Kyle Larson. Headquartered on more than 100 acres in Concord, North Carolina, Hendrick Motorsports employs approximately 600 people. For more information, please visit HendrickMotorsports.com or interact on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.

Spire Motorsports Daytona 500 Race Advance

By
Official Release
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Spire Motorsports at Daytona International Speedway: In 16 NASCAR Cup Series races at Daytona International Speedway (DIS) Spire Motorsports has logged one win, two top-five and six top-10 finishes. Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at DIS on July 7, 2019. The Mooresville, N.C.,-headquartered team will field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the Daytona 500 with drivers Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively.

Flag-to-Flag Coverage: The 66th running of the Daytona 500 will be televised live on FOX, Sunday, February 18 beginning at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The first of 36 races on the 2024 NCS schedule will be broadcast live on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90.

Corey LaJoie – Driver, No. 7 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Corey LaJoie is heading into his fourth full-time season behind the wheel of the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Spire Motorsports in the NCS. 2024 marks LaJoie’s eighth career start in The Great American Race.
  • As the series heads to the high banks of Daytona, Chili’s Bar & Grill will serve as the primary sponsor of LaJoie in the prestigious event. Chili’s known for their margarita beverages will showcase their ‘Rita’ branding on LaJoie’s race car as the ‘Catch a Rita’ No. 7 Chevy takes to the track on February 18th.
  • Since joining Spire in 2021, LaJoie has finished no worse than 16th in the Daytona 500 with that 16th-place finish coming last February. His other two finishes in the 500 in the No. 7 include a ninth-place finish in 2021 and a 14th-place finish in 2022.
  • The 32-year-old North Carolina native had a career year in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2023 earning two top-five, three top-10 and eight top-15 finishes while leading a total of 66 laps. LaJoie’s best career finish in NASCAR’s premiere series is a fourth-place finish at Atlanta Motor Speedway in March of 2023.
  • 2024 will mark LaJoie’s eighth start in the Daytona 500.
  • LaJoie has two-top 10 finishes in The Great American Race coming in 2020 (eighth) and 2021 (ninth). Overall, in his seven previous starts, he has only finished worse than 18th twice (2017 – 24th & 2018 – 40th).
  • LaJoie has led one lap in the Daytona 500, which came in the 2020 race but has led 8 laps total at the speedway in NCS competition. Furthermore, he has completed 86.6 percent of the laps he has attempted (2,205 of 2,546).
  • LaJoie’s average finish at Daytona International Speedway is 18.1 with four Top-10 finishes overall.

Corey LaJoie Quotes:
Daytona 500. New season. New opportunity. Obviously Spire made a lot of moves in the last six months and its bursting at the seams. There’s a lot going on. You’re a good speedway racer. Talk about your thoughts as we head towards the Daytona 500.
“It’s the granddaddy. Everybody is pumped up. Everything is new. We’re all excited. New paint schemes. New people coming for different places. Also, bringing in a new partner like Chili’s into the fold is huge for our team. I was texting with (Spire Motorsports co-owner) Jeff Dickerson when we were doing a 12-hour production day with those guys for their TV spot and I said ‘Look at us. We literally went from a white board in the conference room to 150 people and we’re filming a commercial with Chili’s to be on national television.’ It’s a pretty wild journey that we’ve been on. For us to get to a place where a brand like Chili’s would consider partnering with us for the biggest race of the year is something I take a lot of pride in. I’m proud of us. Hopefully we can do a great job for them. They’re investing heavily outside of the partnership with Spire Motorsports to activate the program and hopefully we can continue to grow that.

“Everybody has a chance to win Daytona. With T.J. Bell, my spotter and I have really dialed in what communication we need throughout the race to put ourselves in a good position to try and take advantage at the end. My crew chief Ryan Sparks and I have really worked on strategy in terms of fuel timing of where we need to be and when we need to be there. But, it also comes down to fate. Hopefully we can put ourselves in position to take advantage of a little luck and whatever happens, let it happen.”

The million-dollar question is always when is the right time to make a move and go? Is it three laps to go or two to go? Is it one to go? Is it coming off Turn Four, heading to the checkered flag?
“I think, anymore, you have to go from lap one. These Next Gen cars don’t build runs. It’s hard to get track position. You can’t drive them like the old cars and go from 20th to the lead in three laps. The cars don’t punch as big of a hole in the air as the old ones, so the runs don’t come as quick. The mirrors in these cars are a lot easier to cover. You can see runs coming from further away with the rear-view camera. So, if someone wants to make a move on you, you can cover it easier than you could with the old mirrors and the spotters are so good. They can see energy. The can see things building. That’s why you don’t see a whole lot of mixing, and moving and shaking, because everyone knows how guys are trying to get positions. It’s really a track position game all day. I feel like we have to have the same demeanor about track position at Daytona as we do at Martinsville. We want good track position early and maintain it all day long.

“If you happen to be in position where a wreck catches you up, that’s just part of the deal. I love the fact that we’re in a place now where we don’t have to go in and ride around in the back all day and then try and make something happen with five to go. We can afford to put ourselves in position to win the race. However we see necessary to do that, we can go do it.”

Zane Smith – Driver, No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Zane Smith will start his first full-time NCS Season at Daytona International Speedway, debuting his No. 71 WeatherTech Spire Motorsports Chevrolet. The Bolingbrook, Ill. company founded by CEO David MacNeil, will be part of the 2024 Daytona 500 serving as the primary sponsor for the Trackhouse Racing development driver.
  • For decades, WeatherTech has delivered on its promise of quality and craftsmanship through a commitment to American-made auto, home and pet products. Globally renowned for its laser-measured FloorLiner™ and innovative CupFone®, the Bolingbrook, Illinois headquartered company continues to push industry boundaries through superior design, engineering and international brand recognition. More information can be found at weathertech.com.
  • On Sunday at 9:30 a.m. EST, Smith will appear for a Q&A at the Midway Stage. Following that Smith will make an appearance at the Chevy Display at 10 a.m. in the midway.
  • Smith will join the U.S. Air Force on Friday in a F-16 Fighting Falcons Thunderbird. These Thunderbirds are the same jets that will be flying over track on Sunday, for the start of the 66th running of the Daytona 500.
  • Smith made his Daytona 500 debut in 2023 where he started 17th and finished 13th driving the No. 36 car for Front Row Motorsports. Smith competed in eight Cup races but retains his rookie status and will be one of the favorite’s to win the rookie of the year honors in 2024.
  • To learn more about Smith, visit his website at www.zanesmithracing.com.
  • Sunday will also mark the debut of Stephen Doran as a full-time NCS crew chief. The Pennsylvania native worked as an engineer on Stewart-Haas Racing’s No. 4 team in 2023.

Zane Smith Quotes:
What does it mean to have WeatherTech as the primary sponsor of your No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet for the Daytona 500?
“You always want a sponsor who does cool things or makes cool stuff and it looks like we got one of the best for Daytona. I’ve already gone to WeatherTech’s website to find things for my personal cars. I feel this paint scheme is the perfect fit for the ‘Great American Race’ and I’m eager to get out on the track to show all the fans. I wish this race started tomorrow.”
Second time ever running the Daytona 500, how do you feel?
“It is a dream come true to race in the Daytona 500, especially with this No. 71 Spire Motorsports team. This is going to be a fun season, but I know it’s going to be challenging, as well. I’m ready to get our year going.”
What are your thoughts on Crew Chief Stephen Doran?
“We laugh about which one will be more nervous at the start. Me behind the wheel or Stephen on top of the pit box. I am very fortunate to have someone like Stephen leading my team. We are going to learn a lot together this year.”

Carson Hocevar – Driver, No.77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • The 2024 season will mark Carson Hocevar’s first full season in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) and will make his Daytona 500 debut behind the wheel of the No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with co-primary sponsorship from Zeigler Auto Group and Gainbridge. The Daytona 500 will mark Hocevar’s first NCS start at Daytona International Speedway.
  • Zeigler Automotive Group is one of the largest privately-owned dealer groups in the U.S. with 84 franchises across 41 locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. Vehicle brands represented include all of the domestic and the majority of the imported manufacturers. Founded in 1975, the organization employs over 2,500 people, ranking among the top one percent of automotive dealers in the nation with estimated annual sales of $2.2 billion for 2023. The family-owned and -operated company is well known for its commitment to both customer service and employee satisfaction. Zeigler is regularly recognized as one of the Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation, also earning similar accolades in Wisconsin, Chicago, and Michigan. Besides these prestigious accolades, Zeigler is also one of Glassdoor’s 100 Best Places to Work in the U.S. for 2024, and among Glassdoor’s top 10 U.S. companies for work-life balance.
  • Gainbridge Insurance Agency, LLC (“Gainbridge”), a Group 1001 company, is an insurtech which strives to offer products that are simple, intuitive, and backed by smart technology with no complexity or hidden fees. Gainbridge empowers consumers to take control of their financial future with solutions that are accessible to everyone no matter their budget or financial knowledge. Gainbridge’s digital-first distribution model underpins its mission to reach all communities, including those that have been historically underserved by the national financial system.
  • Hocevar will greet fans and participate in a question-and-answer session at the Chevy display in the DIS midway Sunday, February 18 at 11 a.m. EST.
  • Hocevar will be featured on Sirius XM NASCAR Radio Channel 90 Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. ET following each race weekend to discuss his rookie season.
  • Hocevar has competed in three NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) races at Daytona International Speedway, earning a venue-best fifth-place finish February 12, 2021. Over those three starts, the Plymouth, Mich., driver hasn’t finished worse than 12th.
  • Luke Lambert, a native of Mount Airy, N.C., will serve as Hocevar’s crew chief in 2024. Lambert comes to Spire Motorsports from LEGACY MOTOR CLUB where he guided the team’s No. 42 NCS effort last season, connecting with Hocevar when he drove for the team in eight of the final 10 races of 2023. In 20 NCS races calling the shots from a top the pit box at the “World Center of Racing,” Lambert has collectively led six different drivers to two top-five and six top-10 finishes. Meanwhile, the veteran NASCAR top kick has called four NASCAR Xfinity races at DIS, accumulating two top-three and three top-six finishes. The 2005 North Carolina State graduate has led the competition efforts for some of the sport’s most notable names including Jeff Burton, Ryan Newman, Elliott Sadler and Chris Buescher. In 2014, Lambert led Newman to a berth in the Championship 4, and ultimately a runner-up finish in the NCS championship point standings.

Carson Hocevar Quotes:
How does your experience racing a truck at Daytona translate to competing in the Daytona 500? Are there any key differences in car handling, drafting strategy, or mental preparation?
“Yeah, unfortunately I haven’t ran this track in a cup car before but drafting seems pretty similar. The people in my ear are going to be the ones I look to. My spotter Tyler (Green) and Luke (Lambert), they’ve both had success on superspeedways. They’re going to really help my learning curve.”

You mentioned learning valuable lessons from your Daytona truck races. Were any of those learnings sponsored, literally or figuratively, by the support of your family and friends who might be returning to cheer you on this year?
“I have so many friends and family coming and with the support of Gainbridge and Zeigler, it’s going to be amazing to have everyone there this weekend. One year ago, I was sitting watching the Daytona 500 envying those Cup drivers who got to race, and now I’m racing in it. It’s super cool to finally have a role in this race and do my best.”
As a fan, what’s your favorite Daytona 500 memory?
“I went to the Daytona 500 as a kid in 2014 when Dale Jr. won and knew then and there that I wanted to race a Cup car on this track. It’s surreal my dream has come true and sometimes I still don’t believe it.”

From the Top of the Box

Ryan Sparks – Crew Chief, No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Ryan Sparks serves in a dual role as both Spire Motorsports competition director and crew chief for driver Corey LaJoie and the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro in the NASCAR Cup Series.
  • Sparks, a Winston-Salem, N.C., native, has been paired with LaJoie since 2020.
  • Combined, Sparks and LaJoie have earned three top-five and six top-10 finishes, including a pair of top fours in 2023.

Stephen Doran – Crew Chief, No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Stephen Doran begins his first full season as a Cup Series crew chief leading Zane Smith and the No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet team during the 2024 season.
  • In 2006, Doran got his start in NASCAR at Petty Enterprises.
  • Since 2012, he has worked at Stewart-Haas Racing as an engineer, most recently on the No. 4 car driven by Kevin Harvick.

Luke Lambert – Crew Chief, No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

  • Luke Lambert is the crew chief for Spire Motorsports’ No. 77 team with 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year candidate Carson Hocevar
  • The 2005 North Carolina State graduate has led the competition efforts for some of the sport’s most notable names including Jeff Burton, Ryan Newman, Elliott Sadler and Chris Buescher.
  • In 2014, Lambert led Newman to a berth in the Championship 4, and ultimately a runner-up finish in the NCS championship point standings.

About Spire Motorsports …
Spire Motorsports is a NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race team co-owned by long-time NASCAR industry executives Jeff Dickerson and Thaddeus “T.J.” Puchyr. In 2024, Spire Motorsports will campaign the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s in the NASCAR Cup Series with drivers Corey LaJoie, Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, respectively. The team will also field the Nos. 7, 71 and 77 Chevrolet Silverados full time in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. An all-star driver lineup will rotate throughout the 2024 season in the No. 7 Chevy. Rajah Caruth will drive the No. 71 entry and Chase Purdy rounds out the team’s fleet of Chevrolets in the No. 77.

Spire Motorsports earned its inaugural NASCAR Cup Series victory in its first full season of competition when Justin Haley took the checkered flag in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2019. Less than three years later, William Byron drove Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Chevrolet Silverado to its inaugural NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series win on April 7, 2022, at Martinsville Speedway. The team’s most recent win came on May 20, 2023, when Kyle Larson took the checkered flag in the Tyson 250 at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

No. 21 Motorcraft/DEX Imaging Team Excited About Daytona 500

By
Official Release
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After a disappointing outing in the non-points Clash at the Los Angeles Coliseum a week ago, Harrison Burton and the No. 21 Motorcraft/DEX Imaging team are fired up heading into this weekend’s Great American Race – the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.

“The Clash is one thing, and I know it’s the first race on the schedule, but there’s something special about loading up to head to the Daytona 500,” said the team’s crew chief Jeremy Bullins, who won the 500 two years ago with Team Penske’s Austin Cindric as his driver and was runner-up in 2017 with Ryan Blaney in the No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford.

“It’s the obvious race on the schedule that everyone wants to win,” Bullins said. “While it’s changed a lot over the years with different cars and rule packages, you never stop getting excited about it.”

“We can’t wait to see how competitive our Mustang Dark Horse is and look forward to having some practice sessions to get the handling dialed in and try to kick the season off with a great finish for this Wood Brothers Racing team.”

The Wood Brothers have a long and storied history in the Daytona 500, NASCAR’s biggest race. They have five 500 victories beginning with their win in the 1963 event with Tiny Lund at the wheel of the iconic No. 21 Ford. Trevor Bayne delivered the Woods their most recent 500 victory in 2011.

In between were 500 triumphs with three giants of the sport – Cale Yarborough in 1968, A.J. Foyt in 1972 and David Pearson in 1976.

Preliminary events prior to the start of Sunday’s 66th-annual Daytona 500 kick off with pole qualifying on Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 8:35 p.m. Only the top-two starting positions will be determined in this session.

The twin Bluegreen Vacations Duel qualifying races that will determine the remainder of the 500 starting grid will be run Thursday evening, with the first 60-lap, 150-mile race getting the green flag at 7 p.m. The second race will start at approximately 8:45.

Two practice sessions are scheduled, the first on Friday at 5:35 p.m. and the second on Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

The green flag for Sunday’s 200-lap Daytona 500 is set to fly just after 2:30 p.m., with Stage breaks planned for Laps 65 and 130.

FOX Sports 1 will televise the preliminary events, with the coverage switching to FOX for the 500.

About DEX Imaging
DEX Imaging is the digital document imaging division of Staples, the world’s largest business solutions provider. DEX sells and services the broadest selection of copiers, printers and data management solutions, such as HP, Konica Minolta, Canon, Kyocera and numerous others.

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DEX Imaging has been the recipient of virtually every industry award since the company’s inception, including the JD Power & Associates Award for Best Customer Experience, the prestigious ProTech Service award by Konica Minolta, the Diamond Premier Dealer Award by Kyocera, and the Elite DEALER Award by ‘ENX’ magazine. Other accolades include being named ‘Best Place to Work’ by numerous business journals in the markets DEX serves.

About Motorcraft®
Motorcraft offers a complete line of replacement parts that are recommended by Ford Motor Company. From routine maintenance to under hood repairs, Motorcraft parts offer value with high quality and the right fit at competitive prices. Motorcraft parts are available nationwide at Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers, independent distributors and automotive-parts retailers, and are backed by the Service Parts Limited Warranty* of Ford Motor Company. For more information, visit www.motorcraft.com.
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About Quick Lane® Tire & Auto Center
Quick Lane Tire & Auto Center offers extraordinary service for routine maintenance, serving all vehicle makes and models. Quick Lane provides a full menu of automotive services, including tires, oil change and maintenance, brakes, batteries, alternator and electrical system, air conditioning system, cooling system, transmission service, suspension and steering, wheel alignment, belts and hoses, lamps and bulbs and wiper blades plus a thorough vehicle checkup report. Service is performed by expert technicians while you wait at any of nearly 800 locations in the U.S., with evening and weekend hours available and no appointment necessary. For more information about Quick Lane, please visit www.quicklane.com.
*See your dealer for limited-warranty details.”

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

About Ford Performance
Ford Performance is based in Dearborn, Mich. It is responsible for Ford’s performance vehicle development and major racing operations globally, including NASCAR, IMSA, SRO British GT, FIA World Rally Championship, Supercars Championship, World of Outlaws, Ultra4, SCORE-International, FIA Rally-Raid, Formula Drift, NHRA, Rebelle Rally, Thailand Super Series and our latest commitment in Formula 1 with RedBull Ford Powertrains. Ford Performance also maintains a constantly evolving fleet of electric performance demonstrators to showcase the limits of electrification technology. In addition, the organization also oversees the development of Ford’s racing engines, as well as the outreach programs with all Ford Clubs and Ford enthusiasts. For more information regarding Ford racing’s activities, please visit Performance.Ford.com or follow @FordPerformance on Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, TikTok and YouTube.

Wood Brothers Racing
Wood Brothers Racing was formed in 1950 in Stuart, Va., by Hall of Famer Glenn Wood. Wood Brothers Racing is the oldest active team and one of the winningest teams in NASCAR history. Since its founding, the team won 99 races (including at least one race in every decade for the last seven decades) and 120 poles in NASCAR’s top-tier series. Fielding only Ford products for its entire history, the Wood Brothers own the longest association of any motorsports team with a single manufacturer. Glenn’s brother, Leonard, is known for inventing the modern pit stop. The team currently runs the Ford Mustang driven by Harrison Burton in the famous No. 21 racer.

Millican and Parts Plus Return to RWR for 2024 NHRA Drag Racing Campaign

By
Official Release
-

Three-Time Winners in 2023 Add Veteran Nicky Boninfante as Co-Crew Chief

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Feb. 13, 2024) – The 2024 drag racing season unofficially kicked off last weekend in Bradenton, Florida, during the PRO Superstar Shootout, and Rick Ware Racing (RWR) served notice that the speed it displayed last season in the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series with three Top Fuel victories courtesy of driver Clay Millican would continue in 2024.

Millican promptly set fast time in the first round of qualifying at the PRO Superstar Shootout with an elapsed time of 3.688 seconds and a speed of 336.49 mph, and then remained atop the leaderboard by securing the No. 1 qualifying position. Millican advanced all the way to the final round, a stout performance that highlighted an expanded role this season by longtime partner Parts Plus on the No. 51 Top Fuel Dragster and the addition of NHRA veteran Nicky Boninfante as co-crew chief.

RWR’s first full NHRA season in 2023 featured three Top Fuel event wins – in May at Route 66 Raceway near Chicago, in July at Bandimere Speedway near Denver, and in October at World Wide Technology Raceway near St. Louis – doubling Millican’s career total in the series dating back to 1998. Millican debuted the No. 51 RWR Top Fuel Dragster in September 2022 at the NHRA U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis.

The Parts Plus brand, part of the The Pronto Network, the largest and most diverse automotive program distribution group in North America, is continuing its sponsorship of the RWR organization and Millican. In addition to its NHRA program, RWR campaigns successful teams in the NASCAR Cup Series, NTT INDYCAR Series, IMSA’s Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup, Progressive American Flat Track, and the FIM World Supercross Championship.

“Coming off of our storybook 2023 season, it’s great to continue building with Clay and Parts Plus,” said RWR team owner Rick Ware. “Parts Plus is expanding its role with RWR and we’re utilizing Clay’s popularity and fan base in other venues, as well. Clay is not only one of the greats in drag racing, he is an amazing ambassador for motorsports across all series. RWR and Parts Plus took him to his first Rolex 24 at Daytona, his first Indy 500 and his first American Flat Track race, and we have more in store for this year. Parts Plus has been an amazing marketing partner and they are spreading their wings, canvasing multiple major series around the country.”

Millican’s relationship with Parts Plus began during his part-time NHRA effort in 2011, then grew to a full-season run in 2012 when he drove for MPE Motorsports. Parts Plus joined Millican in victory lane for his first three Top Fuel event titles, the first in 2017 at Bristol (Tenn.) Dragway, and the second and third in back-to-back fashion at Heartland Park Topeka in Kansas and Route 66 Raceway the following year.

“We’re pleased to continue our long-standing partnership with Clay Millican and RWR in 2024,” said Robert Roos, president and CEO, The Pronto Network. “Coming off such an exciting and successful year, we can’t wait to see what this season has in store. Our Parts Plus stores and service centers are extremely proud to be associated with Clay and the entire RWR team.”

“It’s a thrill to have Parts Plus back for the 2024 season. They’ve helped us generate a lot of excitement over all the years we’ve been together,” said Millican, a native of Drummond, Tennessee. “It’s been a special partnership and we hope to elevate it to a whole new level. All the pieces are in place for a solid year.”

The arrival of Boninfante places the native of Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, alongside RWR crew chief Jim Oberhofer and gives the team a powerful one-two punch at the helm of the performance department. This year marks the beginning of Boninfante’s fifth decade in drag racing, the first four of which included working on back-to-back Top Fuel world championship efforts by driver Scott Kalitta in 1994 and 1995, and another with driver Del Worsham in 2015, during two separate tours of duty with Kalitta Motorsports. Most recently, Boninfante was co-crew chief for team owner Worsham on the Nitro Funny Car team driven by Alexis Dejoria from 2020 to 2023.

“Adding Nicky Boninfante to the team is the culmination of a year-long discussion between Jim Oberhofer and myself,” Ware said. “This team, as with all successful teams, is about people and team dynamics, and that is how RWR has been able to grow like it has.

“The Top Fuel field got stronger and deeper for 2024 and we’re ready to fight and battle at the first hit of the throttle. There was an extremely short list of the people who excited Jim, people he felt could fill the void of ‘that thing’ we needed as a team to take us to the next level. Nicky and Jim both have the ability to complement each other, both are leaders, and, for RWR, they have the ability to grow and help us as we expand in the NHRA arena.”

Throughout his first four decades in drag racing, Boninfante has also served in various capacities in the family business, Boninfante Friction, the sole supplier of clutch plates and accessories to NHRA teams.

“Jim and I have a long history together and that’s a big reason why I came here,” Boninfante said. “I’ve also known Clay for a long time, but never had the chance to work with him until now, so that’s exciting for me. I’m also really looking forward to working with Rick. Last year was their first full year and they won three races, so there’s already a strong foundation here. Our goal is to focus on consistency, win rounds, put ourselves in the top-five, then race for the championship come Countdown time.

“Nicky and Jim O., have had such close ties throughout their careers, and both have been successful – I look at it as a double positive. Jim is incredible with the engine of a Nitro car, and Nicky is incredible in the clutch department. Nicky’s coming off a run with an incredibly fast car for Alexis (Dejoria). He’s going to bring some different ideas from running a Funny Car all those years, so he and Jim will be a formidable pairing.”

The 21-event Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season officially begins March 7-10 with the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville (Fla.) Raceway.

About Rick Ware Racing:

Rick Ware has been a motorsports mainstay for more than 40 years. It began at age 6 when the third-generation racer began his driving career and has since spanned four wheels and two wheels on both asphalt and dirt. Competing in the SCCA Trans Am Series and other road-racing divisions led Ware to NASCAR in the early 1980s, where he finished third in his NASCAR debut – the 1983 Warner W. Hodgdon 300 NASCAR Grand American race at Riverside (Calif.) International Raceway. More than a decade later, injuries would force Ware out of the driver seat and into fulltime team ownership. In 1995, Rick Ware Racing was formed, and with wife Lisa by his side, Ware has since built his eponymous organization into an entity that fields two fulltime entries in the NASCAR Cup Series while simultaneously campaigning successful teams in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, the NTT INDYCAR Series, IMSA’s Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup, Progressive American Flat Track and FIM World Supercross Championship (WSX).

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