Gasoline vs Diesel Car Engines. What Makes them Different?

Shopping for a new car and/or truck can get confusing when you factor in all the different options you have available to you. Interior materials, tech layouts, paint colors, engine types and more are all on the table and it's up to you to choose what's right for you. At Toyota of Orlando, we make it our mission to make the process of selecting the perfect vehicle easy. But, when you get started on the journey to vehicle ownership, the road can be a bit uncertain, especially if you're debating on engine and fuel types. 

Gasoline and diesel fuel are the two main ways to fuel your Orlando car engine and both can have a variety of benefits and drawbacks for your driving experience. Check out what makes these engine types so different!

Why are They so Different?

Gasoline and diesel car engines are vastly different apart from the fact that their fuel sources aren't the same. Before we dive into that, let's review the basics of how Orlando car engines work.

Car engines, from a basic perspective, work by sparking fuel to create fire and heat which then generates power. A spark is created by compressing air using pistons and then resulting in power for your engine to operate the wheels and ultimately move your car. 

Now that we've reviewed the basics, here are some of the key differences that set Orlando gasoline and diesel engines apart: 

• Gasoline engines create their sparks by using spark plugs, These small components sit in the engine compartment and ignite fuel-filled air after it's compressed. In contrast, diesel engines do not have or use spark plugs. Instead, the pistons in a diesel car engine use extreme compression to generate a high amount of heat and a more natural spark. 
• Diesel engines are able to produce more power with a lower fuel capacity than their gasoline counterparts. They also contain several fewer parts than gasoline car engines and require less upkeep. An example of power and size can be found in the Toyota Mega Cruiser. This Humvee clone, exclusive to Japan, produces more horsepower and torque when compared to its cousin and uses a much smaller inline turbo-charged 4 cylinder engine. 
• Diesel fuel is oftentimes more expensive to use compared to gasoline. Drivers can also choose several different types of gasoline to use in their cars compared to only one type of diesel fuel. 
• Gasoline car engines are available in every single Orlando Toyota vehicle model. Diesel engines are not available in too many vehicles currently. But, driving a diesel based model can prove to be more fuel efficient long-term which will help you recoup the additional fuel cost. 

Still curious about how diesel and gasoline car engines work? We're here to help you at Toyota of Orlando! Chat with us online or visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road. 

Toyota of Orlando's quick guide to mileage

 Mileage is an important part of both car shopping and car ownership. You need to know the ins and outs of mileage if you're shopping for a used car, but it's also essential to know how mileage can affect your car ownership experience and your day-to-day drive time. Toyota of Orlando is here with a quick guide - check it out. 

How much mileage is too much when you're used car shopping? 

Car shopping 

When you're shopping for a used car, you have a lot of things to consider... but you should add one more thing to your list. Before you sign the dotted line you should take a peek at the odometer to see how many miles are on the car you're considering buying. Buying a car with a good amount of miles on it isn't necessarily a bad thing, but here are a few things to take into consideration: 

• Some makes hold value better than others. We know we're bragging, but Toyotas really do hold value well. Some makes don't, and this means the higher mileage they are, the closer they are to wearing out and costing you a ton of money. Do your research to see which brands (like Toyotas) are renowned for their reliability and durability even as they get up there in miles. 
• Highway miles are better. Believe it or not, highway miles are better than city miles when it comes to mileage. On the highway, your Orlando Toyota is moving at a constant speed instead of stopping and going constantly. This is better for the engine and all of your car parts in general; highway miles don't cause as much wear and tear. 
• Car care is critical. Make sure you look at past ownership and car care records when you buy a used car. Just because a car has higher mileage doesn't mean it's a bad investment - cars with lower miles but spotty service records and multiple owners can actually be a bad investment while higher mileage cars with good service and just 1-2 owners can be a better investment. 
• High mileage cars may need a little extra attention. Cars that have passed the 100k mile marker may need a bit more TLC in terms of service and repairs, so be sure to factor that into your car ownership costs before you decide. 

Toyota of Orlando explains annual mileage

Driving 

How many miles are too many miles when it comes to driving your car? The average for the industry is about 15,000 miles a year... but we know a lot of people go over that number and a lot of people wind up under it. Your best bet is to not worry about the number of miles you're putting on your car and to instead focus on taking care of it. This means scheduling routine Orlando auto service like: 

• Tire rotations and balancing
• Wheel alignment 
• Oil changes 
• Battery service
• Brake service 

Have questions, want to used car shop, or need to schedule Orlando auto service? Call us! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. 

What Happened to the Toyota Convertible?

Ah, the convertible. Instantly recognizable for its fun and beachy aesthetic. Back in the early 2000s these Toyota models were all the rage (remember the Solara?). What happened? Can you even remember the last time you saw a Toyota convertible on the road? Even a dated Toyota model? Probably not, right? If you're a closeted convertible fan, you might be wondering why these fun and whimsical cars suffered such a fall from grace. Toyota of Orlando has the answers for you!

Why the Toyota Convertible Died?

Orlando Toyota convertibles were the "it" cars back in the 1990s and 2000s. If you remember anything about the Toyota Solara, you probably remember it being a fun and sporty take on a Camry that you'd take to the beach. As a testament to the popularity of the convertible, the Mazda Miata was introduced in 1989 and sold over a million units, solidifying it as one of the most popular convertibles ever. 

If Toyota convertibles were so popular, why did they have such a harsh descent into the world of forgotten cars? Well, there are a few reasons for that and Toyota of Orlando has the facts!

Reason 1) They Required Extensive Redesigning

Designing a Toyota convertible involved a lot more leg work than just ripping the roof off a car. The roof is a key part to the structural integrity of your Orlando car and without it you're going to run into a plethora of problems. When vehicle designers want to introduce a convertible variant they have to go back to the drawing board and redesign the vehicle from a structural level. Plus, removing the roof from a vehicle leaves you exposed to flying debris and in the event your vehicle rolls over. This also means that additional safety features need to be added. 

Reason 2) They Have Fuel Efficiency Problems

Vehicles rely heavily on their exterior design for their fuel efficiency because its a key determinant when it comes to aerodynamics. The more aerodynamic a vehicle, the less fuel it uses to propel through air force. The roof of a typical Orlando Toyota car allows air to flow over the top and out the rear for a smoother ride. With a convertible, air flow is interrupted by the lack of roof and often collects behind the front seats of the cabin and create more drag for the car. Toyota convertibles are also designed to be heavier to counteract the lack of roof which inherently makes them less fuel efficient. 

Unfortunately for those convertible fans out there, we doubt this sub model will return to Toyota of Orlando anytime soon. But, you can still shop for a fun and thrilling vehicle like the Toyota Supra or 86 at our dealership right now. Shop our inventory online or visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road today!

Everything You Should Know About Your Car Transmission

 Driving is such a seemingly simple task if you ignore what goes on behind the scenes. There's a lot more to driving than just pedals and wheels. Your vehicle's engine has numerous moving parts that all work in harmony to deliver you motion and power. While you don't need to know everything about vehicle engineering to be a better driver and vehicle owner, it does help to have a basic knowledge. Follow along with us at Toyota of Orlando while we explain the importance of the car transmission. 

The Basics of Car Transmission

Before we dive into the specifics, it's helpful to know the basics of the 2 different types of Orlando car transmission. 

Manual Transmission

Known as the original transmission, manuals were the first to be used in automobiles. Drivers must shift gears for the engine by using a clutch and hand shifter. Gears are changed as the vehicle speeds up, slows down, and adjusts RPM. This type of transmission requires more attention and knowledge from the driver. 

Automatic Transmission

Automatic Orlando car transmissions are more common today than manuals because of their convenience. Engines shift independently from the driver when they reach the correct speed and RPM. Shifting with this type of transmission is much smoother and allows the driver to have a free hand. But, it does dampen fuel efficiency a tad because of a slight gear shifting lag. 

Different Types of Automatic Car Transmission

Because of their wide use, automatic transmissions have experienced a bit of variety in their transmission segment. Here are some of the more common ones you'll likely come across: 

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Used commonly in Orlando Toyota vehicles, especially smaller sedans and family vehicles, CVTs don't shift. What? Yes, CVTs technically don't undergo gear shifting in the traditional sense of the word. Instead of gears, CVTs use a system of pulleys to smoothen out the transition between RPM markers. Drivers with this type of car transmission will notice the lack of shifting feeling along with an excessive amount of engine noise from time to time. 

Conventional Automatic

Conventional automatics use an electronically controlled clutch pack and torque converter to shift for you depending on the speed and RPM you achieve. This type of Orlando car transmission requires no input from the driver whatsoever. 

Automated Manual

A combination of manual and automatic, this car transmission still shifts automatically but allows the driver the option to treat it like a manual. This transmission can be identified by the presence of paddle shifters or an expanded shifter. 

Dual-Clutch Automated Manual

This one you won't likely find on many Orlando Toyota vehicles. Dual-clutch transmissions work by using 2 different gear shafts, one for even number gears and the other for odd. Your car's internal computer pre-selects the gear you'll be shifting to, shifts to it, and simultaneously disengages the previous gear. 

Do you have more questions about how car transmissions work? Give Toyota of Orlando a call today at (407) 298 0001!

Some of the Weirdest Toyota Models Ever Conceived

 As long time fans of the Toyota moniker (guilty), we're big fans of whenever our favorite make pushes the envelope and produces something all new and unexpected. We're still wishing we could have the Mirai at our dealership. Like most of the automotive industry, we're always itching for something new to roll its way to the dealership. 

While we're big fans of Toyota, even we have to admit that not all the Toyota models ever produced or thought up are winners. Some of them are downright odd and we at Toyota of Orlando have cataloged them all for you right here!

Weird Toyota Models You May or May Not Have Heard of

Toyota Mega Cruiser

While we're in awe of this one, it is a bit of an odd duck. The Toyota Mega Cruiser is a Humvee clone that took to the streets of Japan from 1996 to 2002 as a peacekeeping vehicle. This tactical vehicle was used by first responders, soldiers, and other government offices but was produced in limited quantity for civilian use. This monster of an Orlando Toyota model packed a 4.1L inline 4-cylinder turbo diesel under the hood that was mated to an automatic transmission. To everyone's surprise, this vehicle actually produced more horsepower and torque than its North American progenitor, the Humvee. 

Toyota Tundrasine

Even we have to admit this one's wack. What do you get when you combine an Orlando Toyota Tundra with a limousine? The Tundrasine! Introduced during the 2015 SEMA convention, the Tundrasine was built off a 1794 edition Tundra and stretched 26 feet long. The interior, inspired by Lear Jets, was accessible via 8 doors and the vehicle still had a cargo bed. Like we said. Wack. 

Toyota Previa

Known infamously ass the "egg-van," the Toyota Previa was truly a special case. Popular in the 90s (1990 - 1997 to be exact),  the Orlando Toyota Previa used a mid-engine design to boost fuel efficiency. However, it was the bane of many auto mechanics because of its unique engine placement. An auto service expert would have to remove crucial interior components to access basic engine parts. Combine that with the poor safety ratings and you have one rotten egg of a minivan.  

Toyota Sera

Combining a DeLorean with the aesthetics of a modern James Bond movie will get you the Orlando Toyota model Sera. A 3-door hatchback coupe with winged doors is enough to turn heads anywhere. The Sera (not Michael) was produced in Japan from 1990 - 1995 and used a 1.5L inline 4 cylinder engine under the hood with either a manual or automatic transmission. 

While these Toyota models are unique in their own ways, you can find a normal Toyota right here at Toyota of Orlando! Check out our inventory online today or visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road. 

Safe driving around school buses: Toyota of Orlando tips

 

School is back in session in Orlando, which means that (even though things are a bit different this year), school buses will be back on the roads. When you drive around buses there are certain rules you need to follow and certain adjustments you need to make to your driving habits for your safety and the safety of those on the bus (and around you in other cars!). Toyota of Orlando is here with a quick guide of safe driving tips when you hit the road and encounter school buses. 

4 tips for safe driving around school buses

Tip #1: Do away with all distractions and be ready to stop. 

School buses come to frequent stops to load and unload passengers, as well as at railroad crossings. When you drive around and behind them, you need to practice your best safe driving habits, with number one being doing away with all distractions and keeping your focus on the road. (AKA no texting!) This will ensure you're ready to stop whenever the bus does, even if it's unexpected, and even if you're not driving in a school zone. 

Tip #2: Don't follow too closely. 

You should never follow a school bus too closely because you never know when they're going to come to a stop to load or unload passengers. Be sure to practice defensive safe driving skills and leave at least "2 seconds" of space in between you and the bus - when the bus passes a landmark like a tree or mailbox, count. You shouldn't pass the same landmark until at least 2 seconds later. You should also never pass a bus on the right, as that's where passengers load and unload. 

Tip #3: Know the laws regarding school buses. 

There are certain laws that apply when it comes to safe driving around school buses. Our Orlando Toyota experts have the basic breakdown here. 

• When you're driving on the same side of the road as the school bus, you MUST come to a stop when it does to ensure the safety of the passengers loading and unloading. 
• When you're driving on the opposite side of the road, you MUST come to a stop when the school bus does unless there's a raised barrier OR a median of at least 5 feet wide separating the lanes. 

Tip #4: Don't drive in the bus' blind spot. 

School buses are big and in turn, they have big blind spots. You don't want to drive in their blind spots for too long because they might change lanes or turn and not see you, which could result in an accident. For the best safe driving practices, always make sure you can see their mirrors (this means they can see you) unless you're quickly and carefully passing them on the left. 

Call us with all of your safe driving questions today! 

Have more questions about back to school service and safe driving, school bus safety, or driving in school zones? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500! 

New Features Included with the 2021 Toyota Tundra

It's no secret that the North American automotive market is dominated by larger vehicles. We love our space and engine power, regardless of how gas guzzling it might be. While SUVs may be the king of the castle, trucks reign supreme as the working vehicle on the road. If you're looking to get behind the wheel of an iconic heavy duty truck soon, the 2021 Toyota Tundra is making its way to Toyota of Orlando soon and we have all the details right here! 

What's Going on with the New Toyota Tundra?

The Orlando new Toyota Tundra will again feature a powerful 5.7L i-FORCE V8 engine that affords drivers a towing capacity of 10,200 pounds and a maximum payload of 1,730 pounds. The 2021 model will be offered in Double Cab and CrewMax trim grades which are both four-door models. 

Two new special edition models will be gracing the Toyota Tundra lineup this time around. This includes the Trail Special Edition and the Nightshade Special Edition. Here's what's new on these two special editions: 

Trail Special Edition

Revealed at the Chicago Auto Show, the Trail Edition lineup spans the Tacoma, Tundra, and 4Runner. These unique additions are designed for those that love the great outdoors and conquering trails in their spare time. Based on the SR5 CrewMax model, this edition comes in both 2WD and 4WD and includes a larger fuel tank, anti-theft system, front bucket seats, and more: 

• Paint color options like Army Green, Super White, Cement, and Midnight Black Metallic. 
• The interior features blacked out seating with tan stitching. 
• Standard all-weather floor mats
• Chrome grille and special edition wheels
• There's also a lockable storage bed included with a drain and insulation to double as a cooler. 

Nightshade Special Edition

The new Toyota Tundra is joining the ranks and getting a Nightshade Special Edition for the 2021 model year. This stylish upgrade will include features like: 

• A darkened chrome front grille
• Blacked out mirror caps
• Black door handles
• Black wheels
• And a black exhaust tip

This special edition will be available in Midnight Black Metallic, Super White, and Magnetic Gray Metallic paint color options with the choice of either 2WD or 4WD. 

The Orlando 2021 Toyota Tundra will also be available with a new paint color option, Lunar Rock. 

The new Toyota Tundra will be available at Toyota of Orlando soon and we'll be the first to let you know when it arrives! If you'd like to test drive the previous model year or have questions about our current inventory, Toyota of Orlando is here to help. Shop with us online or give us a call at (407) 298 4500 today. 

Avoid hydroplaning with Toyota service

 Driving in the rain can be nervewracking. Not only can wet roads become slippery and treacherous fast, but you also have to deal with visibility issues if the downpour gets heavy as well as high winds if it's a bad storm. That's why it's important to know how to handle your car as well as prepare it for driving in the rain, and Toyota of Orlando is here to help. Today we're talking about hydroplaning, what to do if you experience it, and how to prevent it in the first place. 

What is hydroplaning? 

Hydroplaning is essentially when your vehicle loses its traction on the road. When you drive, your tire treads push water out of the way so your car can make its way down the road no matter how much it's raining. However, if your tread is low, the rain is heavy, or if you're driving through deeper water, then you may experience hydroplaning. This is when the water on the road actually pushes your tires off the ground slightly and a thin layer of water forms between your tires and the road. When this occurs, you lose traction and your car can slide or skid. 

If you find yourself in this situation, it's critical that you know how to react so you don't totally lose control of your car and wind up in an accident. Here are some quick Orlando Toyota tips on how to handle hydroplaning: 

1. Don't slam on the brakes. You'll be tempted to, trust us, as it's instinctual. However, if you slam on the brakes it will likely just make your slide or skid worse. You should take your foot off the gas to slow your car naturally. 

2. If you need to come to a stop faster than that and you have anti-lock brakes, slowly and gently hit the brakes. If you don't have anti-lock brakes, you should slowly pump the brakes to prevent them from locking up and sending you into a spin. 

3. Steer into the skid. It sounds weird and will likely feel even weirder, but steering the direction you're skidding is an effective way to gain control back. Steering in the opposite direction often causes overcorrection. You should steer the direction that your back wheels are sliding and do it gently - don't jerk the wheel. 

Prep your car for bad weather at Toyota of Orlando

However, the best way to deal with hydroplaning is to not let it happen in the first place. The best way to do this is to take care of your car. Here are some easy tips from our Orlando Toyota service center on how to prep your car for safe driving in the rain. 

1. Make sure your car tires are always in top condition. This means keeping them in good general condition, but also having them rotated and balanced, keeping them inflated to the proper PSI, and making sure you always have enough tread on them for traction. 

2. Stay on top of brake service so you can safely bring your car to a stop in wet weather - sign up for reminders for routine brake care at Toyota of Orlando. 

3. Make sure your headlights and wipers are in excellent condition at all times. You never know when it's going to rain in Orlando so you should be prepared every time you hit the road. Having working wipers and headlights ensures the best visibility possible, even in bad weather conditions. 

Have questions about hydroplaning or auto service for rainy days? Toyota of Orlando has answers. Call us today at (407) 298-4500 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.