Thursday, March 14, 2024

Mild hybrids: Are they right for you?

Mild hybrids: Are they right for you?

Electrified cars are starting to become more and more popular, but there are so many different types of them, like HEV, PHEV, EV, FHEV…and now mild hybrids! Mild hybrids are a bit unknown so we’re here to give you everything you need to know about them – and how they differ from our Orlando Toyota full hybrids.

Orlando Toyota hybrid

What is a mild hybrid?

Mild hybrids use a small electric battery and electric motor to help reduce your gas consumption. Also, they use regenerative braking to help charge their electric battery. So, they sound a lot like a full hybrid – but they’re actually quite different. Here’s how they compare to full hybrid cars like the 2024 Toyota Prius.  


Mild hybrid vs full hybrid: Are they that different?

Here at Toyota of Orlando, we love Making it Simple so we’re going to give you the breakdown between the mild hybrid vs full hybrid. 


  • Full hybrids have a larger battery and electric motor, while mild hybrids have smaller hybrid elements.

  • Full hybrids power your vehicle using their electric capabilities, but only for short distances at very low speeds. Mild hybrids can’t do this at all – they only help start the car and assist in acceleration.

  • Full hybrids significantly cut down on emissions because of the electric motor, while mild hybrids don’t cut down on emissions as much because they can’t solely use the electric motor to power the car.

  • You’ll save money on gas with mild hybrids, but not nearly as much as you would with a full hybrid.


Mild hybrid vs full hybrid

Benefits of a mild hybrid

Now you know the clear difference between mild hybrid vs full hybrid. The benefits of a mild hybrid are similar to those of a full hybrid, but just a little less:


  • Slight increase in fuel efficiency

  • Slight increase in acceleration from a full stop

  • Slight decrease in tailpipe emissions


A mild hybrid is more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than a regular gasoline car, just not as fuel-efficient or eco-friendly as a full hybrid car.


Are mild hybrids worth it?

Here at Toyota of Orlando, we don’t offer mild hybrid so we are a bit biased here – but we say they aren’t worth it. If you’re looking to save money on gas and be more eco-friendly, we recommend an Orlando Toyota hybrid. Here’s what we have on our lot:

  • RAV4 Hybrid (41/38 mpg)

  • Corolla Cross Hybrid (45/38)

  • 2024 Orlando Toyota Prius (57/56 mpg)

  • Venza (40/37 mpg)

  • Crown (42/41 mpg)

  • Sienna (36/36 mpg)

  • Corolla Hybrid (53/46 mpg)

  • Highlander Hybrid (36/35 mpg)

  • Sequoia Hybrid (21/24 mpg)

  • Camry Hybrid (51/53 mpg)

  • Tundra Hybrid (20/24 mpg)

  • Grand Highlander Hybrid (37/34 mpg)


We also offer different types of Orlando Toyota electrified cars, like plug-in hybrids and EVs. 


Have additional questions on mild hybrids?

If you are looking for more information on mild hybrids – you can always talk to our Orlando Toyota specialists and they can give you more information on mild hybrids vs full hybrids. You can always call at (407) 298-4500 or come visit our dealership at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Mall at Millenia!

Friday, March 8, 2024

Towing with a hybrid: can you even do it?

 Towing with a hybrid: can you even do it?

Hybrid towing may not sound right – how could an electrified Toyota tow? News flash – they can! A lot of people don’t know that you can tow with your Orlando Toyota hybrid. We’re Making it Simple for you and giving you all the information you need to know about hybrid towing.


Orlando Toyota hybrid towing

Hybrid towing: what you need to know

There are many pros when it comes to towing with a hybrid – especially if you’re looking for higher fuel efficiency. Hybrids are also known for being more environmentally friendly – but towing with a hybrid is possible too, which a lot of people seem to underestimate. 


Orlando hybrids are considered ‘electrified cars’, but they’re not your stereotypical electric vehicle – like the Toyota bZ4x. They use both a gas engine and an electric motor; the gas engine does a majority of the work in hybrid vehicles. Plus, if you opt for an Orlando Toyota hybrid with all-wheel drive, you'll get almost as much towing capacity as a gas-powered vehicle.


What does the Toyota Highlander Hybrid towing capacity look like?

To help you visualize what hybrid towing looks like, we’re going to give you the Toyota Highlander Hybrid towing capacity. 


  • The 2024 Toyota Highlander has a 2.4L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. It also offers all-wheel drive, and in this model you'll get 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft torque.

    • The final towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

  • If you opt for the hybrid version, you’ll rock a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. So, if you add all-wheel drive in the mix you can get up to 186 horsepower and 175 lb-ft. torque. 

    • The final Toyota Highlander Hybrid towing capacity is 3,500 pounds.


Towing with a hybrid Orlando

Thinking about hybrid towing? 

If you’re looking to start towing with a hybrid, here are some tips. 


  1. Make sure you check your hybrid towing capacity before you purchase. If you go over your towing capacity,  you’ll notice a hefty bill with all the expensive repairs that you’ll need.

  2. Practice, practice, practice. If you’re inexperienced when it comes to towing with a hybrid, you’ll want to practice before you go on your next haul. Remember to practice backing up, u-turns, parking, and sharp turns. 

  3. Make sure you're up-to-date on your car maintenance. If you’re looking to make your Orlando hybrid towing vehicle last, you’ll want to be extra conscious about being consistent on your routine car maintenance – brake service, oil changes, tire rotations, and everything our Orlando auto service technicians recommend. We also recommend asking about your brakes every time you go in for service as you’ll need maximum stopping power with your heavy loads. 

  4. Have all the equipment and test it. Just like regular gas towing, you’ll want to ensure your trailer lights are hooked up,  including brake lights and turn signals. Also, don’t forget a spare tire for both your Orlando Toyota vehicle and your trailer.


Ready to start towing with a hybrid?

If you’re looking to start towing with a hybrid, come see us atToyota of Orlando! Our sales specialists can give you additional tips and give the best recommendation for all your hybrid towing needs. Toyota of Orlando is located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia.


Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Do you need a transmission fluid change?

Do you need a transmission fluid change?

A car is a huge responsibility – you have to be on top of your car maintenance routine. Everyone knows the basic car maintenance checklist – oil changes, brake service, tire rotations – but people seem to forget that’s also vital for the basic functioning of your car: transmission fluid. Toyota of Orlando’s auto service experts are Making it Simple ™ by giving you a guide to your transmission fluid changes.

transmission fluid

What is transmission fluid?

If you don’t know or remember what transmission fluid does for your car – we’re here with the 4-1-1. It depends if you drive a manual or automatic car.

  • If you drive a manual car, transmission fluid lubricates bearings and metal parts inside the gearbox. This helps prevent them from grinding down while they move, and the fluid absorbs excess heat.

  • If you drive an automatic car, transmission fluid lubricates the moving parts associated with shifting gears and provides hydraulic pressure and friction to keep those parts working. Transmission fluid also helps absorb excess heat and keep your transmission cool.

Now that you know what transmission fluid does, let’s talk about why it’s important to change it.


Why is a transmission fluid change important?

You may think that transmission fluid is something you can skip when it comes to routine maintenance – but it’s not. If you don’t routinely change your transmission fluid – then heat can become a big issue as it can wear out parts, break things, and shorten your car’s lifespan. Without a transmission fluid change, your transmission will start to experience a multitude of problems as parts overheat and wear out. And these problems can lead to even more problems, which in turn leads to expensive repairs or an all-new transmission (which can cost an arm and a leg…). 

Also, if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving (regular driving in heavy traffic where your car has to repeatedly shift gears) or if you tow and haul heavy loads routinely – you definitely need to be on top of your transmission fluid changes. 

transmission fluid change

When to schedule a transmission fluid change

Finally considering scheduling this car care appointment at Toyota of Orlando’s service center? We’re going to tell you when you should get it.

  • Once you hit the 30,000-mile mark, you should consistently ask one of our Orlando auto service experts when is it time to get a transmission fluid change. 

  • There is a “lifetime fluid” when it comes to transmissions in newer cars. However, our Orlando auto service center recommends checking your transmission fluid routinely. Also, if you want maximum performance, we recommend swapping it out at 100,000 miles.

It’s a good idea to know how to check transmission fluid in between service appointments. Here are some pointers:

  • If you have an older car with an automatic transmission – you’re gonna have a transmission dipstick. Your Orlando Toyota will have an owner’s manual that can tell you if your car has one and where to find it. Just check the fluid as you do with your motor oil: Turn your car and let the engine warm up, pull out the dipstick, and examine the color.

    • The fluid’s color should be vivid red or pink.

    • If it’s dark – it means that it’s bad and needs to be changed.

    • It should also be free of debris or metal shavings.

    • Foamy fluid means there’s too much fluid in the reservoir and some needs to be taken out.

    • If the fluid is too low, then schedule an auto service appointment to have some added or the fluid changed out.

  • If you have a newer car, it typically doesn’t have a dipstick – so how do you check transmission fluid in these cars? The simple answer: you can’t! Just drop it off at Toyota of Orlando to let our techs take a look under the hood.

Transmission flushes vs. changes

Does your car need a transmission flush or a transmission change? 

  • Transmission changes are misleading because they don’t replace all the transmission fluid with new fluid. In reality, it is only a third or half of the fluid that’ll be swapped out. Some fluid remains in the torque converter and other internal parts of your Orlando Toyota.

  • A transmission flush is quite simple and not misleading – it flushes out all of the fluid from eh entire system. But, it’s not always a good thing as it could end up dislodging debris in the system and cause clogs. 

Unsure if your transmission fluid needs a change or a flush? Ask one of the expert techs at Toyota of Orlando!

Schedule your transmission fluid change today at Toyota of Orlando

Need help with your car’s transmission fluid? We’ve got your back. Schedule service online at Toyota of Orlando or call us at (407) 298-0001. We’re located just off I-4 near the Mall at Millenia at 3575 Vineland Road!


Monday, February 12, 2024

A guide to car bumper repair

A guide to car bumper repair

There are so many different repairs for a car bumper – traditional dents, paintless dents, cracks, holes, punctures, and scratches. But, which of them should you DIY and which of them should you take to our Orlando collision center to get it fixed? To make it simple, we’re going to give you the ultimate guide on car bumper repairs.

When should you schedule a car bumper repair?

One of the most commonly damaged places on a vehicle are bumpers – and they’re not the most aesthetically pleasing or safe, so you’re going to want to repair it. If you don’t take care of it soon enough, there can be some serious consequences. Dents are considered serious damage because they can cause structural issues with your bumper, which prevents it from doing its job – which is absorbing energy when you get into an accident or collision to minimize damage to the rest of your car. Scratches are considered aesthetic damages, which can rust over time. Whichever damage you have, it is best to resolve it ASAP.

car bumper repair cost

How much does a car bumper repair cost?

The simple answer: you’re never going to know how much it costs to repair any car part – it depends on make and model of your vehicle, the extent of the damage, material, and more factors. Here’s a simple list when it comes to car bumper repair costs:

  • For a traditional dent repair, it may range from $150 and up – it all depends on the factors noted above.

  • For a paintless dent repair (PDR), it’s usually cheaper than traditional dent repair and quicker. This repair is when techs use special tools to pull out dents without affecting the paint in that area.

  • For cracks, holes, and punctures, they range depending on how deep and large the damage is. This car bumper repair cost is about  $300 or more based on the extent of the damage.

  • For scratches, they can run anywhere from $50 and up for repair costs. They aren’t too difficult to fix and the cost will depend on the size and depth of the scratch.

Remember repair does not equal replacement – so car bumper repair cost is going to be cheaper. With a replacement, you’re going to have to pay for the bumper itself, but also the installation and painting. When it’s just a repair, it’s way easier.

Should you try DIY car bumper repair?

Whatever type of accident you get into – even a fender bende -, it is imperative to get your car’s bumper checked. It may seem ‘okay’ on the outside, but there could be issues behind the bumper. Here are some of the issues that may happen:

  • First, damaged lights – fog lights, headlights, turn signals, and license plate lights can all be damaged if your bumper gets hit.

  • Second, damaged sensors – the bumper often protects sensors for your cruise control, parking features, airbags, weather, collision warning system, backup feature, and lane changing system.

  • Finally, damaged cameras – the car bumper can also house elements of your car cameras, which can easily be damaged in an accident.

If you don’t check your car after an accident, you may not be able to repair your Orlando Toyota until it is too late. This can lead to bigger and more expensive repairs, even possibly a replacement, in the future. We recommend coming to the Toyota of Orlando body shop to have a full inspection of your bumper – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

 

How to get a dent out of a car bumper

Do you want to know how to get a dent out of a car bumper? It’s a bit difficult to do so we suggest leaving it to the pros at our Orlando collision center, but here are some guidelines to keep in mind.

  • First, you’ll need to get access behind the bumper, so if you aren’t sure how to unclip liners and valances, again – leave it to our pros and stop by Toyota of Orlando.

  • Then, you should apply some heat to the dent making it more malleable and easier to work with. If you don’t own a heat gun, you can switch it out for a hair dryer or boiling water – but be careful because it can damage your car’s paint if you apply it for too long.

  • Finally, use something rubber-tipped to push the dent out until it pops back into its original placement. Be sure to clip everything back into place.

how to get a dent out of a car bumper

How to remove scratches from a car bumper

If you want to know how to remove scratches from a car bumper, you’re going to need to be diligent because you might do more harm than good by experimenting. Here are some pointers to remember when trying to DIY your car bumper repair.

  • Deep or major scratches are a more tedious repair process and involve special tools, as well as paint that matches your vehicle perfectly. We recommend leaving these to the pros.

  • Faint or light scratches are pretty easy to fix. If you can run your fingernail across it and it doesn’t catch, it’s minor enough to buff out with sandpaper, a microfiber cloth, and a polishing compound.

  • Minor scratches are scratches that are deep enough to damage the base coat but can still be fixed DIY style if you know what you’re doing. These scratches can also typically be removed with sandpaper, a microfiber cloth, and a polishing compound.

how to remove scratches from car bumper

Get all of your car bumper repair needs handled at Toyota of Orlando’s body shop

Have questions about car bumper repair? Whether you need to know how to get a dent out of a car bumper or need to schedule your own repairs with the pros at Toyota of Orlando, call us today. We’re open and waiting at (407) 298-6006. Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia at 3575 Vineland Road.


Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Toyota electric vehicle owners will gain access to Tesla superchargers

Toyota electric vehicle owners will gain access to Tesla superchargers

If you own a Toyota electric vehicle, you should be very excited for what’s to come. Tesla, Toyota, and Lexus have just agreed and are adopting the North American charging standard (NACS). Now, Orlando Toyota electric vehicle owners will be able to use one of the 12,000 Tesla supercharger stations across the US for fast, convenient charging. 

how long does it take to charge an electric car

Why is this agreement with Tesla big for Toyota electric vehicles?

This agreement is big for Toyota electric vehicles for a lot of reasons, and not just the increased number of charging stations for your Orlando Toyota electric vehicle. There is also access to superchargers – which are extremely fast. But, that’s not all we know about this agreement – let’s get into it. 

  • Toyota and Lexus will start to incorporate NACS ports into their new vehicles in 2025.

  • These vehicles will include an all-new three-row, battery-electric Toyota SUV slated to come out soon – and it’ll be assembled in Kentucky.

  • Starting in 2025, customers who own or lease applicable Toyota electric vehicles with the Combined Charging System (CCS) will be offered an adapter to use the NACS charging system.

  • As of 2024, there are more than 84,000 charging ports in America for Toyota electric vehicles, including level 2 and DC fast chargers.

  • This will expand access to 12,000+ more charging stations via the Tesla supercharger network.

Getting to use the superchargers, also known as DC fast chargers, is exciting for Toyota electric vehicle owners – but why?

electric car charging time

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

At the end of the day, timing is of the essence more than anything for your Orlando Toyota electric vehicle. So, how long does it take to charge an electric car? Well, it depends.

  • There are three types of chargers: level one, level two, and level three (also known as DC fast chargers).

  • Level one chargers are standard 120V chargers. A level one charger is the equivalent of plugging your Toyota electric vehicle into the wall in your home garage.

    • So how long does it take to charge an electric car with this charger? Well…it is the slowest type of charger – so it can take literal days for you to get a full charge with a level one charger.

    • This type of charger is recommended for Toyota drivers with plug-in hybrids or a very short commute.

  • Level two chargers are exactly double the power of level one – they’re 240V chargers. You can have one of these EV charging stations at your home, but you’ll need to have it professionally installed by an electrician.

    • EV charging time is anywhere from 4-10 hours to get a full charge from a level two charger.

    • Despite that, you’ll see many of these electric car charging stations available to the public.

  • You won’t be able to install level three chargers in your home – they’re exclusively for the public.

    • EV charging time is anywhere between 20-60 minutes to grab an 80% charge for your car. These are the perfect charging stations for road trips.

Orlando Toyota bz4X

Extra tips for charging your Orlando Toyota electric vehicle

We understand that electric vehicle charging time is not all the information you’re looking for. That’s why we’re giving you some extra tips for charging your Orlando Toyota electric vehicle and alleviating a lot of your EV range anxiety – the fear of running out of charge in the middle of driving.

  • Download apps. There are a multitude of apps you can have on your smartphone to help you locate charging stations for your Orlando Toyota.

  • Check your charge levels. You can easily check your charge levels for your Orlando Toyota bz4X on your dash and Toyota app.

  • Enroll in the Clean Assist program with Toyota. When you go to charge your EV, the Toyota app will calculate how much electricity you’re using and the net emissions. Them, Toyota will either generate or buy an equivalent amount of Renewable Energy Certificates.This  means that all of your charging activity is matched with zero-carbon electricity. 



Get all of your EV answers at Toyota of Orlando

Have questions about Toyota’s new agreement with Tesla, how long does it take to charge an electric vehicle, what does electric vehicle charging time look like, or EVs in general? We’ve got all the info you need at Toyota of Orlando. Stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia. You can also call us at 407-298-4500!