Toyota of Orlando’s guide on vehicle suspension

We take a lot of different parts of our Orlando Toyota vehicles for granted. When was the last time you thanked your tires, power steering system, or your brakes? One part of your vehicle that you’ve probably not given much thought to is your vehicle suspension. It keeps your tires on the road, powers your vehicle through turns, and lessens the impact from bumps and defects in the road. If you’re interested in knowing more about this essential component, check out this guide on vehicle suspension from us at Toyota of Orlando!

What is vehicle suspension?

This essential part of your Orlando Toyota vehicle is used for several different purposes, like:

1. Absorbing impact and vibrations from the road to give you a smooth driving experience. Depending on the suspension type you’re using in your vehicle, drivers typically experience varying degrees of comfort or discomfort from the road.
2. Keeping your car’s tires on the road by using spring technology. This keeps your tires from going airborne when turning.

Your vehicle suspension consists of a variety of parts, including:

• Springs (can be coil, leaf, or torsion)
• Air springs
• Dampers
• Shock absorbers
• Suspension struts
• Anti-sway bars

Types of suspension

Vehicle suspension comes in several different types, each with their own set of benefits for your Orlando Toyota vehicle.

• Dependent front: This type of Orlando Toyota vehicle suspension uses a series of stiff bars to connect the front wheels and shock absorbers for support. Dependent front suspension can usually be found in trucks.
• Independent front: Independent front suspension allows the front wheels to move independently of one another.
• MacPherson Strut: One of the most commonly used vehicle suspension types, MacPherson Strut suspension uses a shock absorber and coil spring combination and is mostly used in front wheel drive Orlando Toyota vehicles.
• Double wishbone: This type of suspension uses a series of connecting “wishbone” struts that connect to the wheel and Orlando Toyota vehicle’s frame. It uses a coil spring and shock absorber and provides better steering consistency and feel.
• Trailing arm: Suspension arms are connected right to the chassis and it behaves similarly to double wishbone suspension.

Troubleshooting your suspension

Like any other part of your car, your suspension system may run into issues as this part ages or gets damaged from accidents or road hazards. Thankfully, because your Orlando Toyota car’s suspension system is such a large part of the undercarriage, spotting an issue is pretty easy. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to take your vehicle in to one of our auto service techs at Toyota of Orlando:

• Knocking or clanking sounds when turning.
• Steering is significantly harder.
• Your car drifts or pulls to one side while driving.
• You can feel bumps and dips in the road more easily.
• Your steering wheel shakes or vibrates while on the road.

If you’re experiencing issues with your vehicle’s suspension or want to know more about this important vehicle part, then come visit us at Toyota of Orlando! We’re open seven days a week and located at 3575 Vineland Road!

Easy ways to make your old car feel new

Your Orlando Toyota car has been with your through thick and thin. Every trip to work, every trip out of town, and everywhere in between and your old car has been there. But, after all the mileage, your car may start to feel like it’s getting a bit worn and old. Just like people, cars need makeovers too and, luckily, it’s not too difficult or expensive to pull off. At Toyota of Orlando, we’ve spoken with our auto service experts and created a guide on how to make your old car feel new again!

A makeover for your old car

Clean everything

While you may already be doing a routine interior cleaning by vacuuming the carpets and wiping the dashboard, our Toyota of Orlando auto service experts recommend taking the cleaning a step further. Shampoo the carpets and seats, dive in between the seat cushions, and scrub the dashboard and accent pieces a little harder. This will probably seem exhausting after a while, but your interior will thank you and maintaining the clean will be easier. Plus, this gives you an opportunity to inspect problem areas in the interior of your Orlando Toyota old car.

Upgrade your tech

If your car’s technology is a little on the dated side, it might be time to think about upgrading. A new infotainment system could be fairly inexpensive, depending on the system you choose. You also might want to consider upgrading your speakers for better sound quality. Better sound during your commute in your old car can make all the difference.

Get your headlights shining bright again

Orlando Toyota headlights suffer dulling and yellowing over time. If your old car’s headlights have seen brighter days, it’s time for a little restoration. Headlight restoration kits are inexpensive and simple to use.

Keep things smelling fresh

Age looks good on some, but the same can’t be said for your old car’s A/C system. Our Toyota of Orlando auto service techs recommend having your air conditioning inspected regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup. To keep the air in your Orlando Toyota car smelling fresh, diligently inspect and replace the A/C filters and use a deodorizer to take care of any odors that may have built up.

Your car needs a new pair of shoes

Wheels and tires for your Orlando Toyota car aren’t the cheapest parts you can get for your vehicle, but they’re necessary to keep your car performing correctly. Your tires are the one part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road and investing in a good new set of tires will go a long way.

Take care of your old car at Toyota of Orlando

Breathing new life into your current ride is always a fun project, but it can get costly and time consuming. If you need help restoring your ride or you’re thinking of trading it in for a new one, Toyota of Orlando is the place to go! Give us a call at (407) 298 – 0001 to schedule an appointment today!

5 signs it’s time to retire your used car

It’s been with you through thick and thin and, while it was reliable once, your used car is getting old and likely doesn’t hold up like it used to. While driving a paid off and older car is cost effective, it could break down soon and you could be left without a car. If you’re starting to notice your Orlando Toyota used car underperforming during your commutes, then you might want to consider retiring it and getting a new car. Not sure what to look for? Don’t worry! Toyota of Orlando is here with an easy guide on what to look for and if you should retire your car.

Sign 1) Repair and replacement parts are hard to find.

When an Orlando Toyota vehicle is discontinued and goes out of production, their replacement parts do as well. If your used car undergoes serious damage or if a part has degraded over time, finding new parts will mostly likely be difficult and expensive. If your Orlando Toyota used car is coming up on some major part replacement, it might be time to trade it in.

Sign 2) Cracked or damaged engine block.

Has your used car’s engine been unreliable during start-ups, has it flat lined, or do you notice signs of damage? Engine damage is a serious issue that can spell the end for your Orlando Toyota used car as its difficult to repair and expensive as well. If replacing your entire engine block is going to cost more than the total value of your car, it’s probably time to walk away.

Sign 3) Accident damage.

Depending on the severity of the accident you find yourself in, your used car could be damaged heavily and be considered and totaled loss. This means that repairing the vehicle would cost more than the resale value if you were to trade in the Orlando Toyota vehicle.

Sign 4) Repair costs exceed the resale value of your car.

Whether it’s the result of an accident or just general repairs from aging parts, your Orlando Toyota vehicle will likely encounter this issue. If your repair estimate is more than what you could get for the car by reselling it, it might be best to trade it in.

Sign 5) Rust.

Unrepaired paint damage is a surefire way to run into rust. If the body of your Orlando Toyota vehicle is plagued by rust spots, repairing them can be difficult and costly.

Get a new ride at Toyota of Orlando

If you think it’s about time to retire your ride, then come by Toyota of Orlando! We’ll give you top dollar for your trade in and get you behind the wheel of a new Toyota that’s perfect for you and your budget. Give us a call at (407) 298 – 4500 or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall!

5 tips for safer night driving

Driving, while an essential part to daily life, is only so safe and poses many hazards to drivers and passengers alike. However, driving in the dark is especially unsafe when compared to driving during the daytime. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), almost half of all traffic related fatalities happen during the night, even though only 25% of travel traffic occurs then. Refraining from night driving isn’t the most feasible of options and, instead, you should practice safer driving habits during this time of the day. Luckily, Toyota of Orlando is here with an easy to follow guide on how to make your nightly commute safer.

Have your windshield cleaned

Your windshield is the one thing that lets you see the world and the road right in front of you. A dirty windshield will make it difficult to see during the day, but even more so at night. Make sure to clean both the inside and outside of your Orlando Toyota vehicle’s windshield before your next night driving commute. And, if you notice your windshield wipers are worn or need replacing, this would be a good time to get that taken care of in case something obstructs your view.

Drive alert

Being fatigued while driving your Orlando Toyota vehicle can lead to serious accidents and hurt yourself and other drivers in the process. Before getting behind the wheel for your night driving commute, make sure you’re well rested and alert. If you feel tired during your drive, find the nearest rest area and try to sleep as much as possible before getting back on the road.

Practice defensive driving

Night driving opens an entirely new world of hazards and dangers compared to driving during the day. Your vision distance is limited, your peripheral vision is also limited, and you have to rely almost entirely on your headlights. When driving at night, make sure to slow your Orlando Toyota vehicle’s speed down and take your time to see everything in front of you. Your high beam headlights can also come in handy during these types of driving situations, but make sure you’re not shining them in the eyes of other drivers.

Limit your distractions

As is with driving during the day, while night driving it’s important to limit distractions. Refrain from using your phone for texting, phone calls, and checking music and keep your eyes on the road. If possible, try dimming the lights inside the cabin to keep your vision clear.

Get a regular eye exam

While this doesn’t pertain to adjusting your Orlando Toyota vehicle, it’s always a good idea to get your vision assessed to see if your prescription has changed or maybe you’ve developed night blindness. This will help you get the vision assistance you need and make night driving less hazardous for you and others.

Stay protected with Toyota of Orlando

Night driving can be dangerous, but with the right driving habits and working auto parts it’s made much safer. If you need to have your windshield cleaned or headlights replaced, make sure to stop by Toyota of Orlando! We have a great selection of auto parts and our auto service team would be more than happy to get your vehicle night ready! Visit us seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road!

An overview of Toyota Racing Development

Across various Toyota models, you’ve likely spotted the iconic TRD badging. Orlando Toyota vehicles with this designation typically have upgraded features in categories like engineering, interior, and exterior. These vehicles pack a punch, but what’s truly incredible is what the TRD logo carries with it. Toyota Racing Development is more than just a trim level, it’s Toyota’s collection of the best racing vehicles around. Born to compete, bred to win, and engineered to push the limits of what Orlando Toyota vehicles are capable, Toyota Racing Development is truly a department to behold. If you’re getting an itch to race or just interested in what the TRD name really means, then check out this guide from us at Toyota of Orlando.

More than just a trim level

Beginning in 1954 with Toyopet Seibi Co., Toyota Racing Development put its best foot forward with the Toyopet Crown in an Australian car rally. After setting records in Japanese grand prix races, developing the world’s first Orlando Toyota turbo car, and breaking their way into the North American race scene, the TRD division has solidified itself as a force to be reckoned with in automotive racing. Today, Toyota competes in events like the One Lap of America, NASCAR, Off-Roading, and Formula One racing and excels at each one.

While Toyota Racing Development vehicles are reserved for the track and trails, you can still find TRD feature equipped vehicles at Toyota of Orlando that mean business and command attention wherever you drive. Here are a few TRD equipped vehicles that you can find at Toyota of Orlando:

• Toyota 4Runner: The Toyota Racing Development edition includes additional features like: an electronic locking rear differential, TRD tuned suspension, thick front skid plate, TRD embroidered interior accents, and special edition exterior badging.
• Toyota Tundra: This Orlando Toyota Tundra trim level includes additional features like: unique exterior badging, TRD front skid plate, front and rear FOX shocks, TRD interior embroidery, and black chrome-tipped exhaust.
• Toyota 86: The sporty Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition includes: 18-inch alloy wheels, underbody spoilers, unique side body graphics, performance exhaust, Brembo brakes and SACHS performance dampers.
• Toyota Tacoma: The Orlando Toyota Tacoma comes in three different TRD trim levels including Sport, Off-Road, and Pro. These accessory packages come with features like: Multi-terrain select, CRAWL Control, electronically locking rear differential, high-performance FOX bypass shocks, and various exterior accents.

Shop Toyota Racing Development at Toyota of Orlando

The TRD name carries with it a legacy of amazing races and feats in engineering that few other vehicles have ever achieved. While driving Toyota Racing Development racing vehicles in a race is a little out of reach, you can still get a taste of these sporty features with our available TRD trim level cars at Toyota of Orlando! Give us a call at (407) 298 – 4500 to schedule your test drive today!

The best anti-theft devices for your car

Driving around town or in an unfamiliar area is always a stressful experience and it’s easy to forget about certain things. Between finding a parking spot or your destination, the last thing on your mind is the well-being of your Orlando Toyota vehicle while you’re away. Car theft is a common occurrence and could happen to anyone and anywhere. Making sure your vehicle and belongings are protected while you’re away seems easier said than done, but there are several anti-theft device options that can keep your car and belongings safe. If you’re not sure what to look for, you’re in luck! Toyota of Orlando is here with a list of some of the best types of anti-theft devices, so you can leave your vehicle behind with peace of mind.

Steering wheel lock

While an anti-theft device like a steering wheel lock won’t keep thieves from entering your vehicle, it will keep them from taking your Orlando Toyota vehicle. One type of wheel lock prevents your vehicle’s steering wheel from turning past a certain point while the other keeps it from turning entirely.

Tire lock (boot)

Getting your Orlando Toyota vehicle booted for a parking violation is always a headache, but, did you know that boots make great anti-theft devices? If you plan on leaving your vehicle for an extended period, attach the tire lock and forget about it until it’s time to drive again. Our Orlando auto service team recommends using this anti-theft device if you plan on parking your vehicle for a while.

Electronic Tracking System

The idea behind an anti-theft device to prevent your Orlando Toyota vehicle from being stolen, but if a thief is persistent enough they’ll often find a way. One way to make sure you can find your vehicle if it gets stolen is to use an electronic tracking system. You can install these devices in an inconspicuous spot in your vehicle and they’re GPS tracked and registered with local police.

Kill switch

This type of anti-theft device is difficult to install, but very effective in keeping from your Orlando Toyota vehicle from being stolen. When installed, a kill switch prevents the flow of electricity from making it to your vehicle’s critical systems and unable to be started. It’s recommended to keep the switch in a hidden spot or install several to make it more difficult for car thieves to figure out how to steal your car.

Baby monitor

You wouldn’t think that a baby monitor would prove to be an effective anti-theft device but, think about it. It’s a camera that can capture clear video and audio and often has night vision capability. Putting a baby monitor on the dashboard of your Orlando Toyota vehicle should deter potential thieves, but in the event it doesn’t, it will ensure that you have video evidence of the break-in and make it easier for police to catch the culprit.

Check out anti-theft devices at Toyota of Orlando

Making sure you still have a car to drive home is the goal of using anti-theft devices. If you’re unsure of which device to use or ready to purchase one, come check out our auto parts department at Toyota of Orlando! We have a great selection of anti-theft devices that will keep your vehicle safe while you’re away. Come see us at 3575 Vineland Road today!

Toyota of Orlando’s guide to fall auto maintenance

A new season is finally here and it’s time to wave goodbye to summer and say hello to fall! While seasonal changes are somewhat unnoticed in Orlando, fall brings with it pumpkin spice lattes, falling leaves, Halloween, and maybe a hint of cold weather. This time of the year is special for celebration and a signal for other holidays to come, but it’s also a time for new auto maintenance concerns. Summer heat can bring problems like overheating and A/C malfunctions, but colder weather during the fall and winter can bring with it a whole assortment of other auto maintenance problems. To get you prepared, we chatted with our auto maintenance team at Toyota of Orlando and made this guide for you, check it out!

Fall season auto maintenance

With the arrival of fall, you can certainly expect that your Orlando Toyota vehicle will encounter auto maintenance issues unlike it did during the hot summer months. Here are a few things to look out for during these colder months:

Tire pressure

Our expert auto service department highly recommends checking your current tire tread level at least once a month to prevent tears and other major damage to this important auto part. Not only should you check the tread, but when the weather drops, so does your tire pressure. Because of the air temperature difference, your tires could lose up to a pound of pressure for every ten degrees the temperature drops. Make sure to use a gauge to accurately check the pressure in your Orlando Toyota tires.

Battery

If it’s been a while since you last popped your hood open, you may want to think about doing that and checking your battery. Over time, corrosion and dirt can build up around the terminals and cause poor connection. As part of your pre-fall auto maintenance routine, be sure to regularly inspect your Orlando Toyota vehicle’s battery and have it checked for its current charge and to clean off any debris that may have formed over time.

Windshield wipers

While snow is a rarity in Orlando, other inclement weather like rain and fog are always possible during the fall. If your windshield wipers are a bit worn from dealing with summer rain, it might be time to think about replacing them. Replacing wiper blades is a simple auto maintenance procedure and our auto service experts would be more than happy to get you a pair and install it for you!

Wash

Before the cold weather of fall sets in, think about giving your Orlando Toyota vehicle a much-needed wash to get rid of summer’s mess. You may want to also consider using car wax to seal the wash and protect the paint over the next few cold months.

Take care of fall auto maintenance with Toyota of Orlando

The best season of the year is here and instead of stressing about auto maintenance, let us take care of it! At Toyota of Orlando, our auto service experts are here to keep your vehicle in perfect shape, so you can trick or treat and enjoy PSLs worry free. We’re open seven days a week and located at 3575 Vineland Road.

Picking a pickup truck: Toyota Tacoma vs Toyota Tundra

The great working vehicle that packs a punch and looks good while doing it, the pickup truck. Plenty of use and utility, great style, and maximum space make this type of vehicle one that everyone wants to drive. If you’ve weighed the costs and benefits of driving an Orlando pickup truck, then you’re probably going to make your way to Toyota of Orlando for a test drive! But, between the Toyota Tundra and the Toyota Tacoma and all their options, it can be difficult to pick which one you want to drive home. To make things easy, Toyota of Orlando is here with a comprehensive guide on the differences between these two pickup truck models, so you can decide on your next vehicle.

Everything you need to know about the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra

When it comes to Orlando Toyota pickup trucks, engineering, style, and body style options are aplenty and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by it all. A key thing you have to remember when shopping for a truck is to be realistic with what you’ll need from the vehicle and choose features accordingly. If you’re not sure which Orlando Toyota pickup truck features suit you best, feel free to check out our vehicle research pages and our online inventory to get some ideas.

Price Point: The Toyota Tacoma is a markedly smaller truck than the Toyota Tundra and that difference is obvious based on the MSRP. For the 2018 Toyota Tacoma, the MSRP is $25,400 while the Toyota Tundra starts at $31,420.

Engineering: While pickup trucks are made to put in the work, they’re also highly customizable for optimal performance. Features like Variable Valve Timing are incorporated into the engine to improve efficiency while still maintaining that pickup truck power. Here are some of the engineering options that are available for the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma:

            Toyota Tundra

• A 5.7L V8 engine that outputs 381 horsepower and 401 lb./ft. of torque
• A 4.6L V8 engine that outputs 310 horsepower and 327 lb./ft. of torque
• This pickup truck model gets an EPA estimated 15 city/19 city mpg.

Toyota Tacoma

• A 3.5L V6 engine that outputs 278 horsepower and 265 lb./ft. of torque.
• A 2.7L 4-cylinder engine that outputs 159 horsepower and 180 lb./ft. of torque.
• This truck gets an EPA estimated 18 city/22 city mpg.

Towing and bed sizes: Easily towing up to 10,000 pounds, the Toyota Tundra is the truck to pick if you’re looking to do some serious hauling. It’s larger body and fine-tuned engineering give it an edge over the Toyota Tacoma. But, even with a smaller engine and body size, the Orlando Toyota Tacoma can still manage enough muscle to tow up to 6,400 pounds.

Both Orlando Toyota trucks can be outfitted with different cargo bed sizes to accommodate a greater towing capacity or more cargo.

Test drive both at Toyota of Orlando

While we can give you guide after guide about the features of these trucks, the best way to find the best one for you is to take them for a test drive! At Toyota of Orlando we have a huge inventory of Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra pickup trucks to choose from and they’re all packed with great features! Visit us seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road or give us all at (407) 298 – 4500 for more information.