How to prepare your used car for trade in

 Are you thinking about trading in your used car but not sure what you need to do before you make an appraisal appointment? Toyota of Orlando is here with tips - learn the steps you should take to get your ride ready for trade-in so you can get the most bang for your buck (and a nice down payment to put into your next Orlando Toyota!). 

Five ways to prepare your used car for trade in 

Tip #1: Detail your car. Before you try to trade in your used car, detail it. Take the time to thoroughly wipe, dust, and vacuum the interior, and use stain remover to get rid of any small stains in the upholstery or carpet. Clean all the glass, and get rid of all the junk in your car, even in the trunk or cargo space. For the exterior, wash it, shine your tires, and apply a coat of wax to give your car paint that like-new luster again. 

Tip #2: Take care of any small repairs. Do you have any small repairs or maintenance items that you need to handle? Take care of them now. We're talking oil changes, swapping out burnt-out lightbulbs, etc. Don't necessarily feel that you have to undertake any large repairs before a trade-in; they can always be negotiated into the price when you do sell or trade the used car. 

Tip #3: Gather records, warranties, and receipts. Gather all the paperwork that you have on your Orlando Toyota. This includes all of your service records, any receipts you have from work done on the car, and any warranties that you have for parts or service. This will make the used car more enticing to future buyers and also show that you've cared for it properly. 

Tip #4: Appraise your car with our online tool. Get an idea of how much your car is worth with our online appraisal tool. It'll give you an estimated value so you know around how much you can expect when you do a trade-in. 

Tip #5: Decide what you want for your car. After prepping and appraising your Orlando Toyota, decide how much you want for it. Have that number in mind when you take it to your trade-in appointment. 

Schedule your trade-in at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to trade in? Whether you need auto service before you do or want to schedule a trade-in appointment, we're here to help! Call Toyota of Orlando at (407) 298-4500 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. 

How to keep your black car clean: Toyota of Orlando tips

 If you own - or have ever owned - a black car, then you know just how difficult it can be to keep it clean. Dust, pollen, watermarks, fingerprints - it seems like every single imperfection shows up because of the paint's high reflectivity and contrast, and this can send you into a constant cycle of wash, dry, repeat. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips on how to keep your black car clean AND mistakes to avoid when caring for a car with dark paint! 

5 tips for detailing a black car 

Tip #1: Clean bird poop, bugs, and other stains off the paint as quickly as you can. We all know that dead bugs (we're looking at you, lovebugs), bird poop, and other debris can damage the paint. But it's even more noticeable on dark paint, which is why it's critical to at least rinse these stains off of your car as quickly as you can.  

Tip #2: Invest in a good wax. Blemishes, scratches, and chips show up a lot more on black cars and what might not be noticeable on a lighter vehicle will be glaring on yours. Remember, when you scratch car paint you can see white underneath, and this white will be even more noticeable on a black car. That's why it's critical that you invest in a good wax. Apply it regularly to give your Orlando Toyota an extra layer of defense for your car paint. You may even want to look into a ceramic coating. 

Tip #3: Park under cover. Black car paint is also more susceptible to fading from the sun because its dark color absorbs more UV rays (and we get plenty of sun here in Orlando). Try to park your car under cover whenever possible. A garage is best, but even a carport or under some trees that give partial shade can help. 

Tip #4: Use the right products and tools when car detailing. Invest in a good car soap formulated for vehicles AND microfiber cloths. Using regular rags on a black car's paint can leave swirl marks over time, so you want to use something ultra-soft for cleaning. 

Tip #5: Take extra care to use a clean sponge when washing. When you're soaping up the car, make sure your sponge is fresh, clean, and free of dirt or sand. Any debris in the sponge will leave marks on you car's paint as you wash. 

Get tips, car detailing supplies, and more at Toyota of Orlando 

Want more tips on how to keep your black car clean? Call Toyota of Orlando. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. 

Difficult to Remove Car Paint Stains (And How to Remove Them)

Your car paint is a statement. It's the first thing people see and notice when you pull up to a spot. Even before you notice the type of car or what the body design looks like, you'll definitely notice the paint color and pattern. The eye-catching nature of paint is definitely palpable, but it comes with some caveats. It's also super easy to spot defects and errors on paint and it's a great way to feel self-conscious about your ride. 

While you drive, all manner of things is out to attack your paint. Rocks, dust, dirt, and more can plague your ride's aesthetic. While some of those things are easy to remove, other things can be pretty tricky to deal with. Toyota of Orlando is here with a guide on the most difficult substances to remove from your car paint and the best ways to go about removing those things. Check it out!

The Peskiest Things to Remove From Orlando Car Paint

Bird Droppings/Bug Splatter

These 2 substances are probably some of the most common things to plague your car paint. Having your ride parked under a tree often leads to bird droppings appearing on your hood or roof and bugs are a natural consequence of driving just about anywhere. While they may not seem like a huge deal that warrants being removed asap, these substances are actually very acidic and can lead to stains and paint deterioration. White vinegar and distilled water can be used for bird droppings on your car paint and wet dryer sheets are great for getting rid of bugs. 

Gasoline

Yes, gasoline powers your ride, but it can also be your car paint's greatest nemesis. It's not uncommon to drip a bit of fuel onto your car paint around the gas cap, but over time this can eat away at the clear coat and leave stains. It's highly recommended you remove any gasoline left on your Orlando car paint immediately using a mild soap and water mixture with a sponge. Especially don't bring an open flame near it. 

Fingerprints

Sometimes your Orlando car paint is just so cool and clean you can't help but run your finger down the body panel. Well, big mistakey. Fingerprints can actually spread grime already on your hands (please, wash your hands thoroughly people) onto your paint and even act as a surface that causes more to stick. So, try to resist touching your ride too much and, if you do, wash your prints away with mild soap and water. 

Water Stains

Super pesky and difficult to avoid. Water is everywhere and not always a bad thing to get on your car. But, when water contains mineral deposits or is "hard," you best believe it will become the bain of your Orlando car paint's existence fast. Deposits, when dry, can leave stains on your paint and various watermarks that are ultra-difficult to remove. The best way to do so is to wax your vehicle with an orbital sander after washing to remove watermarks. It also helps to thoroughly dry your ride after washing. 

Asphalt, Cement, and Highway Paint

This one doesn't happen too often, but when it does you need to approach it with caution and care. Asphalt, cement, and highway paint are very abrasive and designed to not come off of just about anything. If you drove through a patch of these substances while they were wet, you're in for a rough time. They're not impossible to remove, but if you do it wrong they can cause heavy damage to your car paint (cue FlexSeal guy). You need to start by gradually removing the substance using an oil-based penetrator. Think Goo-Gone or WD40. Spray and chip away at the spots slowly to avoid tearing off your clear coat or paint layers. If you've managed to remove the bulk of the stains, use a clay bar to remove some of the remaining particles and avoid scratching your paint further. 

Need help getting rid of these pesky substances from your car paint? Toyota of Orlando can help! Visit us at 3575 Vineland Road today!

Went a Little Rough on the Toyota Off Roading? Damage Report

If your ride has the grit and the aftermarket suspension system, it can go where hardly any vehicles go. Off-roading and over-landing are immensely fun activities that give you a little more from your car. All the thrills of being on the race track, but a lot muddier. Luckily, if you drive an Orlando Toyota truck or SUV, you're well on your way to carving up some trails. 

Toyota designs many of their vehicles to harken back to the off-roading ruggedness of the original Land Cruiser and they perform very well off the pavement. But, for all the engineering and bolstered designs, no car is immune to damage when Toyota off-roading. If you're noticing some odd behavior or maybe some body damage here and there, Toyota of Orlando has the deets on damages you can expect to see after a day on the trails. 

You Might See This After a Day of Off-Roading

Misaligned Wheels

Being on the trail most definitely means you're going to be running into all manner of things. Large and sharp rocks, tree branches, sudden dips, and elevations, we could go on. Your Orlando Toyota suspension system is designed to withstand quite a bit, but it can't handle it all. More than likely, a day of Toyota off-roading will leave you needing an alignment. 

You can diagnose this auto service issue but letting go of the steering wheel briefly while driving. If your car can't follow a straight path or you feel shaking or shuddering, then your wheels are likely out of alignment. This issue is best addressed quickly as it can lead to uneven wear on your tires and further damage to your suspension system. 

Tire Damage

Your tires are made of rubber, but that doesn't mean they repel damage. Off-roading tires are built with extra padding and material to handle uneven terrain, but even they can run into issues after some time. When Toyota off-roading, you could run into sharp objects, uneven branches, or objects striking bad points and causing uneven pressure. After a day on the trails, inspect your tires for punctures, bubbling, and anything out of the ordinary. 

Body Damage

If you brushed past a tree along the path or bumped into a large rock, chances are the body of your Orlando Toyota car was damaged. This could mean paint scraping, dents, scratches, and so on. While it's expected of many off-roading vehicles to have this issue, deep scratches and other major damage can yield to even worse problems. 

Undercarriage Damage

It's important to have ample clearance height when Toyota off-roading. This can help keep your undercarriage protected. Unfortunately, you might run into something unexpected that scrapes the bottom of your Orlando vehicle and sends you into a panic. Undercarriage damage is very common after hitting the trails. To make sure you got out unscathed, check for fluid leaks and pay attention to your car's dashboard warning lights. 

Transmission Issues

When you think about Toyota off-roading, it usually involves a lot of frantic and harsh acceleration, quick braking, and sudden high and low RPMs. All the rough shifting and RPM fluctuation can actually do significant damage to your transmission. After a day in the mud, watch out for symptoms like transmission slipping, difficulty shifting, fluid leaks, delays in shifting, and warning lights coming on. 

Are you experiencing any of these issues after a Toyota off-roading trip? Visit Toyota of Orlando today at 3575 Vineland Road for the best in auto service. 

Some of the Most Challenging Car Repairs Out There

 Servicing vehicles is a thankless job that our auto service technicians do excellently. We're always thankful for their efforts and expertise. While the day in and day out jobs seen most are oil changes, tire rotations, and the like, occasionally a problem-child of a car makes some noise in the garage. 

Our techs are always up to task to handle whatever the issue is, but some jobs are much easier to tackle than others. For the entertainment of our readers, Toyota of Orlando has done some digging and uncovered some of the most difficult/challenging car repairs known among mechanics. Check it out here!

Up to the Challenge? Think Again with These Orlando Car Repairs

Transmission Repairs

Your car's transmission switches the engine to the required gear and is essential to the overall function of your ride. Essentially, good luck driving without a working transmission. Repairs and general maintenance of this auto part are expensive and many drivers aren't willing to finance the repairs outright. Until it's too late. Things like low transmission fluid, bad shift cables, or poor clutch link (if you drive a stick) can contribute to poor transmission conditions. For an auto service tech, this car repair is dreaded. 

Spark Plug Replacement

Granted, spark plug replacements aren't expensive and the parts are easy to find, they're still a pain to work with. This type of car repair involves working with painfully small parts that are often placed in an inconvenient spot in the engine compartment. For many Orlando techs, it's a gamble if they'll have an easy or difficult time with this one. 

Clutch Work

We can bet you've never heard of this word. The clutch is that extra pedal that comes in manual drive vehicles. It lets the driver shift when needed and is absolutely essential to proper function. If someone driving stick really shouldn't be driving stick, the clutch can degrade after about 20,000 miles. The problem with working on the clutch is that the entire transmission needs to be removed. So, you can see why this one sucks in particular. 

Engine Replacement

The most dreaded and time-consuming of most car repairs. Replacing the engine involves much more than just ripping out the existing rig and dropping a new one in. Connecting parts might need to be replaced in the process, every connection needs to be inspected and reconnected, and more. Case and point, it's a lot of work and expensive at that. 

Looking for quality car repair services? Visit Toyota of Orlando today at 3575 Vineland Road. 

Weird but common driving superstitions

 Do you have any driving superstitions that you adhere to when you're behind the wheel? Believe it or not, a lot of drivers do. Today - in honor of Friday the 13th - we're discussing some of the weird but common driving superstitions we've seen. Check it out! 

Seven driving superstitions to be aware of

#1: Hold your breath when you pass a graveyard. It's a pretty common driving superstition that you should always hold your breath when you pass a graveyard in a car, even if you're just a passenger. Why? Some believe that your ability to breathe makes the ghosts there jealous (you know because they're dead) so they'll try to steal your breath from you. Our recommendation? Don't hold your breath too long if you're behind the wheel. 

#2: Honk when you enter a tunnel. Some drivers believe that you should honk before you enter a tunnel because it will scare off any evil spirits that might otherwise cause you to get into an accident. We say go for it, but make sure you're not right behind someone. Honking could confuse them. 

#3: Lift your feet up when going over a railroad track. A lot of drivers (and passengers alike) lift up their feet when going over the railroad tracks. Apparently, some believe that if you don't, you'll never meet your true love, never marry, and could even die young. We think it's pretty risky to take your feet off the pedals when you're driving, so we don't recommend you adhere to this driving superstition. 

#4: Scratch your new car yourself. Have you heard of the driving superstition where you scratch your new car yourself before anything else can? Supposedly, making the first scratch in your paint will help prevent any other damage or car accidents. If you do it, do it in a place that's out of sight! 

#5: Put coins under your seat in a new vehicle. Some drivers believe that it's good luck to throw change under the seat of your new car. We say ok.... at least you'll have money if your EPass stops working. 

#6: Don't discuss selling your car while inside of it. In Russia, it's considered bad luck to discuss selling your car while sitting inside of it. Apparently, the car will "hear" you and in retaliation for its soon-to-be abandonment, will start to break and malfunction before you can get it off of your hands. 

#7: Be super cautious on Friday the 13th. Some drivers believe that Friday the 13th is such an unlucky day that you shouldn't even take your car out of the garage. However, we know that realistically this just isn't feasible for some people. Just pay attention, avoid distractions, and put your best defensive driving skills into play! 

Get scratch repair or a new Toyota today at Toyota of Orlando

Need a new Toyota to put some of these superstitions to the test or need scratch repair after making that first mark yourself? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall and you can reach us at (407) 298-4500. 

What's the Deal with the 2022 Toyota Tundra's New Suspension System?

 The new Toyota Tundra was one of Toyota's best-kept modern secrets. We've seen a complete exterior look at one of the trim grades that will soon be available and few more key details here and there. But, it's been quite the slow trickling of details that has us on edge here in Orlando. Luckily, we have another new detail to share with you!

Toyota recently published a news release showcasing various aspects of the new suspension system that will be available soon. Today we're breaking it down and telling you what we noticed. Follow along with Toyota of Orlando right here!

What Does Turning Over a New Leaf Mean?

While the saying is very popular and means changing your ways, Toyota decidedly used it as a play on words. Traditionally, the Orlando Toyota Tundra, and many other full-size pickups on the market, have used leaf spring suspension systems. But, it seems that Toyota will be ditching this suspension system design to make way for something new. While they didn't outright name a design layout, we can ascertain a few details from the pictures they provided in their news release. Here's what we can see so far:

The image is primarily of the rear suspension system and we can see what looks like a 5-link system. But, what's different about Toyota's system is its placement of the link bars. They're closer in toward the rear axle, a common trait among off-roading trucks. There's a lot of visible skidplate in the front, middle, and rear portions of the undercarriage. The front of the Orlando Toyota Tundra sports the iconic TRD front plate along with what looks like a complete covering of the fuel tank and drivetrain. 

What's unique about this model of Orlando Toyota Tundra's suspension system is the addition of FOX bypass shocks and a sway bar. Full-size/half-ton pickup trucks typically don't use sway bar technology as it's most often not needed for off-roading. It does provide a comfortable on-road driving experience though. This, in combination with the unique rear suspension design, might suggest that Toyota is leaning toward a healthy balance of off-road clout with on-road driving comfort. 

All in all, this is more exciting news about the much anticipated new Orlando Toyota Tundra. It's still unknown just how many trim grades and versions there will be. Much of this new pickup truck is still wrapped in mystery, but you'll be the first to know. For all the latest news and Toyota updates, stay with us at Toyota of Orlando!

If you're looking for a new ride or top-notch auto service, visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road today!

Back to School Road Hazards You Should Watch Out For

Oh, August. The end of summer and back to school time. It's also a very hot month if you're living in Orlando. But, we digress. Heading back to school is a very uncertain time for everyone (especially now). Getting used to the flow of traffic, bus schedules, and so on can be quite a hassle. Plus, most importantly, there are more road hazards to be on the lookout for during this time of the year. Toyota of Orlando has the skinny on what you should look out for during your commute. Check it out here!

Lookout for These on the Road This Fall

Heavier Traffic

An obvious road hazard that, if you live in Orlando, knows no seasonality. During back-to-school time, traffic ups the ante significantly by migrating into back roads and highways alike. Car pickup line backups will likely cause pileups exiting your subdivision or you'll likely have to follow a bus or two on your way home. Regardless of the reasons for a traffic jam, we recommend giving yourself extra following distance and time to get to where you need to go without rushing. 

School Buses

Another obvious one but one road hazard that's absolutely imperative you watch out for. School buses transport children back and forth from school and there are rules when it comes to driving near one. Always drive slower than the bus, unless you intend to pass, and don't follow closely as they make frequent stops. When a bus comes to a stop, make sure to also come to a complete stop. DO NOT PASS THE BUS. This is not only illegal but highly unsafe and could result in injury. 

School Zones

A prime place to get a speeding ticket. School zones are present around schools to ensure that children and other pedestrians can walk safely throughout without threat of injury. Speed limits are dramatically reduced and police officers are very often present to ensure drivers obey the law. Slow down, watch the signs, and be ever watchful for pedestrians. 

Cyclists

Some kids walk, some kids are driven, some kids take the bus, and some bike! Biking to school is a great way to get exercise and save time versus walking. But, for an Orlando driver, that means you need to pay more attention to the road. Bicycle riders can and will traverse the sidewalk and road and you need to be ready to hit the brakes when necessary. 

Ready to head back to school? Visit Toyota of Orlando for all your auto service needs today. See us at 3575 Vineland Road today! 

How to Shop for New Car Tires the Right Way

 Oh tires. A lot less fun than buying new shoes for yourself, but kind of the same concept applied to cars. They are your vehicle's one (and hopefully only) contact with the ground beneath it. They take a lot of punishment and endure a lot from your driving that you probably don't realize. While they do so much for us and our cars, we hate replacing them when they're worn out. They're expensive and all they do is get worn out. But, they're auto parts you can't just go without. 

While a dealership or auto service center can shop for car tires for you, you'll likely want some flexibility when it comes to your budget and purchase options. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you shop smart for your next set of tires. Check out these tips!

Car Tire Shopping Doesn't Have to Be Tiring

Like we said, shopping for new Orlando car tires can be tricky. But with a little know how and these tips, you can get the best pair to match your budget and expectations. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Check Your Current Tires First

While tires do wear out over time, yours might not have reached the end of their rope. We recommend checking your Orlando tires before you start researching new ones. Try the quarter test to see if the tread meets an acceptable amount. If you feel odd tugging or pulling when you drive or use the brakes, it might not be your tires but your suspension system that's faulty. Also check for punctures and uneven wear before shopping for a new set. 

How Old Are Your Tires?

It might be hard to remember, but try to consider how old your current tires are. While they may have been kept in good shape all this time with no punctures or issues, age can do quite a number on them. 5 years down the line can mean that mileage and time are working against your graying car tires and they could fail. Anything beyond that and it might be time to just replace them, regardless of current tread depth. 

When Shopping, Choose the Right Type

Orlando car tires come in several types and styles to best adapt to seasonality and weather conditions. All season give drivers an all-around great performance, winter are best used in cold and snowy conditions, and summer perform in hotter environments. You need to also consider the size of tire to match your car's wheels. Luckily, there's a handy set of number on the sidewall of your tires to help you out. Typically, the size number is formatted like this: 255/35R18. "255" refers to the car tires' width (in mm), "35" is the aspect ratio (height to width), "R" means radial, and "18" is the wheel diameter (in). Check the sidewall of the tire you're looking to replace and confirm that your replacement tire matches the dimensions listed. 

Check Plenty of Sellers

Car tires are specific auto parts but they're sold in many different places around Orlando and online. Online stores give you a chance to compare prices quickly and check customer reviews to see if the quality and price are to your liking. But, this does mean that you won't be able to see the tires in person until they arrive and returns can get dicey. Plus you'll need someone to install them for you after they arrive. Physical tire shops are also great because they provide you with expertise in person and they can make sure you get the exact size you need. They can also install the tire(s) for you in-house. Prices can be pretty high and you might be pressured to add on items and services you don't necessarily need. 

Shopping for car tires can get a bit baffling. But, it doesn't have to be. Toyota of Orlando has a great selection of tires and reasonable prices to get you on your way in no time. Visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road and shop with us today! 

Tips for Finding the Right Auto Service Mechanic

Taking care of your ride is something you have to be careful about. Not all auto service technicians and mechanics are certified and qualified uniformly and that means you'll likely get a different experience visiting each one. Some routine auto services, think oil changes, tire rotations, and so on, are fairly standard at any dealership or mechanic shop. But, what about the big things? Belt replacements, piston repairs, exhaust system diagnoses, and more beyond that? That's when you need mechanic you can count on. 

We, at Toyota of Orlando, believe we have the best auto service techs in the game. But, as a customer, it does pay to shop around and build a rapport with a trusted mechanic. If you're looking to find your diamond in a sea of used motor oil, never fear! Here are some tips to get you where you want to go. 

Finding the Right Auto Service Mechanic

Try a Shop Specific to Your Vehicle's Make

Dealerships, much like ours here at Toyota of Orlando, are great to visit when it comes to specific services for your vehicle's make. Places like ours will have auto service mechanics who are well versed in working on your vehicle specifically and we'll use make-specific manufactured parts. But, if you're looking for a more personal experience with your mechanic then it's best to start by choosing a shop that services your specific make of vehicle. 

You Could Always Ask Friends and Family

People most often trust the opinions of their friends and family for good reason. Those opinions are trusted and come from those closest to us. If your friends or family members service their vehicle with specific auto service mechanic then it might be benefit you to try them out too. 

Search Online and Check for Certifications

The easiest and most convenient way to survey the landscape for an Orlando auto service mechanic you trust is to search online. You'll find a plethora of options that way, but that could be quite the double-edged sword. On the one hand you have many options to choose from, but you might not know right away which shop will give you the best experience. Take your search and step further and research a specific shop for customer reviews and their certifications. Certifications are a great way to ascertain which type(s) of vehicles they service and how qualified their staff is. 

Give it a Try

If you try nothing else during your search for an Orlando auto service mechanic, you can always dive in head first and give them a try outright. We advise that you don't start with a large-scale repair when sampling repair shops this way. Instead, start with a routine service like an oil change, tire rotation, wheel balancing, and so on. This will give you a good idea of the shop's pricing, their customer courtesy, and work ethic when it comes to repair work. 

Good luck in your search! If you're looking for a great dealership based auto service mechanic, Toyota of Orlando is here. Visit us today for quality auto service at 3575 Vineland Road.