Care for your car tires like an expert with these simple tips

Do you think you take good care of your car tires? Even with the best intentions, it can sometimes be easy to miss certain things. However, taking good care of your tires is essential - it'll make them last longer (so you don't have to pay to replace them as often), and it'll also put you at a lower risk for flat tires, blowouts, and other repairs and issues. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips straight from the experts on how to care for your car tires like a pro. 

6 car tire care tips from Toyota of Orlando 

Tip #1: Take care of your spare tire
It's easy to forget your spare tire, especially if it's not in your sight on a regular basis. Since most spares are in the trunk or cargo area, you run the risk of forgetting that it's there until you need it. However, you should extend your car tire care to you spare tire as well. Routinely check the air pressure, tread depth, and overall condition to ensure it's ready to go when you need it! 

Tip #2: Routinely check your tire pressure 
You should routinely check the tire pressure on all of your car tires according to our Orlando Toyota service techs. Check the PSI to ensure they're inflated to the proper level; this will help you achieve the traction and fuel efficiency you're supposed to get. You can find the right PSI on the doorjamb of the driver's side or in your owner's manual. 

Tip #3: Do the penny test 
When was the last time you checked your tread depth? Tread helps you grip the road and provides you with traction, so if it's too low, you can lose control of your vehicle (especially in rainy or snowy conditions). Toyota of Orlando recommends that you regularly check your tread depth with a penny. Put the penny into the tire tread so Abe Lincoln's head is facing down - if you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low and you need new tires. 

Tip #4: Schedule regular tire rotations
Tire rotations ensure that your car tires wear evenly (so you don't have to replace or repair them as often). Our Orlando car tire techs will rotate the front tires to the back, and the left tires to the right. This way, they all wear at the same rate. You should schedule routine tire rotations with our techs - let them get you on a schedule today! 

Tip #5: Don't ignore issues and put off repairs 
If you sense that you have issues with your car tires or know that you need repairs, don't put them off. Leaving repairs for too long can only create more issues and more expensive repairs. Schedule service and repairs when they're needed to avoid spending more down the road! 

Tip #6: Adjust your driving habits 
In order to provide expert car care, you should start with your driving habits! Drive carefully, avoiding potholes and rough road whenever you can. You should also try not to drive around construction sites if you can help it as they're usually cluttered with nails, screws, and other sharp debris that could damage your tires. 

Schedule service at Toyota of Orlando

Let us help you care for your tires - call our Orlando Toyota service center today at (407) 298-0001 to schedule service! We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. 

Should You Buy an Alternative Fuel Vehicle?

When it comes to going green, one of the biggest things you can do is swap out your gasoline-powered ride for something more eco-friendly. Luckily, our Orlando Toyotas offer a variety of alternative fuel vehicles that are cleaner, greener, and much more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts. However, alternative fuel vehicles aren’t for everyone and we’re here to help you figure out whether or not you should sign the dotted line on one.

What to think about before you buy a green Orlando Toyota

There are three things to consider before you put your down payment on the table for an alternative fuel vehicle.

1. Types of cars available: Right now there are three main types of alternative fuel vehicles – hybrid cars, electric cars, and fuel cell vehicles. They all have unique benefits so it’s in your best interest to educate yourself on the options before you buy. (So keep reading.)

2. Your location and its infrastructure: Does your city have the type of infrastructure you need to keep your ride up and running? Some cities don’t offer electric car charging stations, for example, meaning you can only charge your car up at home. This can be inconvenient so ensure you have the resources you need for your new Orlando Toyota.

3. If this vehicle is right for you: Alternative fuel Orlando Toyotas are designed to be clean, green, and efficient. They aren’t, however, designed to be heavy towers or haulers or to take off-roading in tough terrain. (Although it seems that hybrid trucks are in our near future!) Consider your drive time needs before you decide to buy an alternative fuel vehicle.

What types of alternative fuel cars are available to you?

When you shop Orlando Toyotas, you’ll find three different types of alternative fuel vehicles up for grabs. Which one is the best fit for you?

Hybrid cars: Hybrid cars switch back and forth between a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This makes for a super-fuel efficient performance and reduced emissions, and it allows you more freedom as you can depend on the gasoline engine to power you when needed rather than searching for a charging station.

Electric cars: Electric cars use a battery as their power source and subsequently, require charging. This can be problematic if your city doesn’t have charging stations and you can only charge at home. However, automakers are working on improving the range of electric vehicles. Some of them can go up to 400 miles on one charge. These alternative fuel options are extremely green and you don’t have to worry about emissions.

Fuel cell vehicles: Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are powered by hydrogen and only emit water vapor, making them an extremely eco-friendly option. However, you’ll only find these Orlando Toyotas in Hawaii and California – they’re the only two states in the US that support this type of charging station.

Have questions about the different alternative fuel Orlando Toyotas available to you? Visit us today at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re open seven days a week and ready to get you behind the wheel of a new greener ride!

Car Tire Care to Prevent Tire Blowouts

Have you ever experienced a car tire blowout? Believe us, you'd remember if you had. It's a frightening experience, not only can the blowout itself be loud and shocking, it also can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Obviously, having one of your tires blow out is dangerous not only to you, but also to others out on the road around you.

At Toyota of Orlando, we're here to help you be proactive with your car care routine to prevent a dangerous accident, like a car tire blowout, from happening!

5 Car Care Tips to Avoid a Car Tire Blowout

1) Always check your PSI 

You want your tires to be inflated to the proper PSI at all times for many reasons, but mostly for safety. The air inside your tires is what supports your vehicle and a lack of air can put unnecessary stress on your Orlando Toyota car tire and cause damage. Keep your car tires inflated to the proper PSI, which you can find both in your owner's manual and on the sidewall of your tire. Look for the maximum PSI label and inflate your tires about 10 PSI less than that number.

2) Pay attention to your car tires during the summer months
Summer puts a lot of pressure on your tires, especially in Orlando. High temperatures in the air and on pavement can cause your tires to react adversely and become damaged more easily. Make sure you do a visual inspection of your tires regularly during the summer season and stay on top of routine car care at our Orlando Toyota Service Center.

3) Don't drive over potholes
Driving over potholes, running into curbs, and so on are inherently bad for your Orlando Toyota car. Doing so could cause major damage to essential vehicle parts like your suspension system, wheel, and your car tire. This could eventually lead to a car tire blowout if you're not careful. If you run over a pothole or into a curb, have our Orlando auto service techs take a look at the tire.

4) Don't overload your vehicle 
Every Orlando Toyota car has a limit as to how much weight they can bear. If you exceed this limit, it can put a strain on your car tires. Overloading your car has the same effect as having your tire pressure too low. The tires are compressed and pressure grows too high which can lead to a blowout.

5) Stick to a routine tire care schedule
Stay on top of routine car tire care like tire rotations, wheel alignments, and replacements. Our Orlando car tire care center can help you get on a schedule and stick to it.

Ready to schedule a car tire service with us? Visit Toyota of Orlando's auto service center today at 3575 Vineland Road!

Prep your car for the rainy season with easy car care

The rainy season is coming - people may refer to our state as "the Sunshine State", but those people have probably never spent a summer here. Central Florida is notorious for thunderstorms in the summer, and it can make your commute a soggy and unpleasant one if your car isn't prepped for the weather. Luckily, our Orlando Toyota car care experts are here to help! Check out their quick list of ways to prepare your car for the rainy season BEFORE it arrives.

Tip #1: Schedule tire service
We suggest you schedule Orlando Toyota tire service for your tires because they're one of the most important parts of your car's performance, especially when you're facing wet weather. Your car tires need to have enough traction on them to provide you with grip when the road is wet, so let our car care experts do a tread test next time you come in for a tire rotation. You can also do one at home; stick a penny in the tread of the tire with Abe Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, you're due for a new set of tires.

Tip #2: Replace your wiper blades 
It's imperative that you have quality wiper blades in good condition on your car when rainy season arrives. Test them now - if they're just smearing water around, leaving streaks, or making unpleasant noises when you use them, then it's time for you to get a new set. Our Orlando car care experts can help you choose the right ones and even install them for you if necessary.

Tip #3: Make sure your headlights are up to par 
You should always turn your headlights on in the rain - not necessarily so you can see better, but so that other drivers can see you. If your headlights seem dull or you need a bulb replaced, call Toyota of Orlando. Our techs can get your headlights shining bright again in no time. And while you're at it, have them check your brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. (And please remember - no driving with your hazards on, even in the heaviest of rains. They're for parked cars only.)

Tip #4: Do a brake check 
Do a brake check to ensure you have responsive brakes that can bring you to a quick stop, even when it's unexpected. If your brakes are slower to respond or feel mushy, it's time for brake service at Toyota of Orlando with our car care techs.

Want more tips or need help with the car care necessary to prep your car for the rainy season? Call us today at (407) 298-0001 OR swing by and see us. We're open and ready to serve you at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

New Toyota car or truck: Which should you buy?

Are you shopping for a new ride and trying to decide which model will best suit your lifestyle? You're not alone - lots of shoppers struggle when shopping for a new Toyota car (or just a car in general!) because there are so many options out there. However, one of the most common dilemmas we see is a customer trying to choose between a new Toyota car and a new Toyota truck. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you choose between the two and find the perfect ride for your unique needs! 

The pros and cons of Toyota cars and trucks 

To better decide between an Orlando Toyota car and Toyota truck, let's run through the pros and cons so you can decide which is better suited to you. 

Towing: Trucks have bigger engines under the hood and thus, will definitely tow a lot more than a Toyota car. Take the Toyota Tundra, for example - it can pull up to 10,100 lbs. The Orlando Toyota Camry, on the other hand, maxes out at just 1,000 lbs. If you need towing capability on your side, we definitely recommend you go the truck route! 

Fuel efficiency: But because of that bigger engine, trucks tend to have less fuel efficiency than cars. Although the fuel efficiency for trucks has improved over the years, it really can't hold a candle to the more efficient new Toyota cars we have on our lot, especially when it comes to Orlando Toyota hybrids. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for you then a Toyota car is your best bet. 

Off-roading: If you like to find adventure off the pavement, you should buy a truck from Toyota of Orlando. Trucks are much better suited to tricky terrain, offering features like four-wheel-drive, off-road tires, special suspension systems, active traction control, and more to offer you superior control no matter the landscape. Cars don't offer these features and thus, can't handle going off the pavement as well. 

Interior space: Believe it or not, cars and trucks pretty much tie when it comes to interior space. Truck cabs used to be a lot smaller, but thanks to the spacious new double cabs, you can get the same amount (if not more) of space that you'd have in a new Toyota car. Most double cabs easily seat 5-6 people and you'll still have underseat storage. 

Cargo space: A lot of our Toyota cars have decent trunk space or even a hatchback cargo area, but if you really need space to haul, a truck is going to be the best choice. With a truck cab and bed in play you can get a ton of stuff around town without even breaking a sweat. 

Size: Size is really a personal preference. Trucks are definitely a good deal larger than our Orlando Toyota cars, so if you like driving a big vehicle, then you're good to go. However, if you find it difficult or annoying to try and drive or park a big vehicle, then a car is a better option for you. 

Test drive both at Toyota of Orlando 

The best way to decide, however, is to shop them in person! Get behind the wheel of both today - come down to Toyota of Orlando. We're located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and you can call to learn more about our inventory and specials at (407) 298-4500! 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Toyota Sportscar

It's a well known fact that everyone wants to go fast behind the wheel. Well, maybe not everyone, but there are some of us born with speed fever that can only be quelled by the smell of burnt rubber. Vehicles were created to get us from point A to point B faster than horse drawn coach, but some of us want more than just a mode of transportation. In comes Toyota sportscars and the rest is history. However, these specialized vehicles aren't for the faint of heart or for those who plan on using them as ornaments. Toyota of Orlando is here with a quick guide on things you should consider before getting behind the wheel of a sportscar.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Toyota Sportscar

1) Classic vs Modern

Just like there are plenty of options in the SUV market, there are a number of Toyota sportscars to choose from. Especially when you consider driving a vintage ride. A classic car is a great option when it comes to sportscars, but keep in mind that these vehicles will require more work or money. Purchasing a restored ride can be costly and restoring it on your own can be both costly financially and when it comes to time. A modern sportscar is easier to come by, but they will also cost a pretty penny. Consider which option is best for you before signing on the dotted line. 

2) Which One Would You Want to Drive Everyday?

If you're like most people, you have one car that you drive everywhere from the grocery store to your job. Before deciding on your ideal Toyota sportscar, you should consider what type of utilities you'll need it to have. Will you only be driving the vehicle on the weekends and have a different car for everything else? Do you need backseats for passengers? What about trunk space? What's the weather like where you live? Consider these aspects carefully to avoid purchasing the wrong Orlando Toyota car. 

3) Front or Rear Wheel Drive? 

Most vehicles on the road are equipped with front wheel drive to increase fuel efficiency and provide power to an easy spot, the front wheels. Your car is being dragged rather than pushed and you've likely grown used to driving these types of Orlando Toyota vehicles. But, most Toyota sportscars are equipped with rear wheel drive. This drivetrain feels and operates differently than it's counterpart. Your vehicle is being pushed rather than pulled, steering is crisper, and acceleration is easier. However, it's easier to over-turn or lose control of the vehicle if you're not careful. 

4) Car Insurance

It's easy to forget that you also have to pay for your car insurance in conjunction with your monthly payments. For an SUV or sedan car insurance is modestly priced, but that goes out the window with a sportscar. Depending on the model and type you drive, your insurance costs could skyrocket. Make sure you're ready to bear that expense in advance. 

Need more tips or help shopping for the perfect Toyota sportscar for you? Visit Toyota of Orlando today at 3575 Vineland Road and we can help you out! 

Best Practices for Maintaining Your Car When You're Not Driving it Often

During this time of social distancing, the driver's seat of your ride has gotten cold and you haven't felt the roar of your engine in some time. While it's great that you're staying home to keep yourself and others safe, your car could be suffering from being too sedentary. To make sure your ride doesn't waste away in your driveway, Toyota of Orlando is here with some helpful tips for maintaining your car when you're not able to drive it often.

Maintaining Your Ride

Check Your Tires Often

Your tires are already prone to deflating depending on their age and wear pattern. But, if left sitting for too long, your Orlando Toyota tires could be deflating right from under your nose. For maintaining your car, we recommend checking your tires a few times a week to make sure they aren't losing pressure. Use a working tire pressure gauge to get an accurate reading. 

Start it Every so Often

While your engine can stay sedentary for a long period of time, your battery can't. It maintains its charge by self energizing when you drive and staying sedentary could cause it to die if left long enough. We recommend starting your Orlando Toyota car every so often to make sure the battery is still holding a charge and functions properly. 

Fill Up Your Tank

Keeping a full tank for maintaining your car is important to prevent compromising the engine. Your car's fuel tank can accumulate condensation if left sitting partially empty for too long and that could cause issues the next time you try to start your Orlando Toyota car. Make sure to fill up your engine before you leave it in the driveway for an extended period of time. 

Park in the Shade

Living in Orlando, we know how brutal the sun can get and what it can do to your car. Properly maintaining your car means you should find a covered parking spot to leave your ride to prevent paint damage and UV wear. This could make or break your vehicle's paint, dashboard, and seats if they're made of leather. If you can't find shade for your ride, use a sunshade to protect what you can. 

Still have questions or need a professional to maintain your car? Visit Toyota of Orlando today. Our auto service department is open and ready to take care of your ride. You can book an appointment online and find us at 3575 Vineland Road. 

Car maintenance for when your car is parked for a long time

Are you parking your car because of COVID-19? With the order to stay at home unless running an essential errand placed on the City Beautiful, you may find yourself not getting behind the wheel as often. However, that doesn't mean you can put your car in park, walk away, and forget about it. Even if you're not driving your ride often, you still have to perform certain car maintenance to keep it in running shape. Toyota of Orlando has tips from our auto service experts - check it out! 

4 car maintenance tips for when you're social distancing 

Tip #1: Fill your gas tank before you park your car. 
You should fill your car's gas tank before you park it, believe it or not. This prevents condensation from forming inside of the gas tank. Moisture inside the gas tank can cause major and expensive issues with your vehicle, so you want to do everything you can to avoid it. Our Orlando Toyota service techs recommend filling your gas tank to the top and if you're going to be storing your car for a long period of time, considering a fuel additive to help preserve the fuel. 

Tip #2: Choose the right parking spot. 
Part of car maintenance is protecting the vehicle from the elements. After all, harsh sunlight, dust, and rain (or even ice and snow if you live up north) can do a number on your car's paint, leaving the metal below vulnerable to rust damage. It's important to choose the right parking spot - our Orlando auto service techs say a garage is best, but if nothing else, try to park your car under a carport or some other covered parking, or at least under some shady trees to try and protect it from the elements. 

Tip #3: Move your vehicle around to avoid tire problems. 
When your car sits in one spot for a long time, you can develop soft, flat spots where the tires touch the pavement. This leaves you vulnerable to flat tires and blowouts. Our Orlando Toyota techs recommend that as part of your car maintenance, you go outside and roll your car back a few feet, and then go out a few days later and roll it forward a few feet. This ensures that your tires aren't always touching the pavement in the same spot and will help prevent flat spots. 

Tip #4: Don't let the battery go flat. 
If you don't run your car regularly, it's easy for the car battery to go flat or die. It's important to go out once a week and start your car to give the battery some juice - you don't want to have to replace it when it's time to hit the road again. Our Orlando auto service experts say that it's even better to take it for a short drive to juice up the battery, so go run an essential errand (and take a break from your quarantine mates). 

Let Toyota of Orlando help keep your car ready to roll 

Want more tips about car maintenance when it comes to keeping your car off the road? Toyota of Orlando is here to help. Call us today - we're open and ready to assist at (407) 298-4500. You can also swing by to see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.