A guide to the different grades of gasoline

When you stop at the gas station to fill up, you likely notice that there are three types of regular gasoline available to you and that they vary in price. These are called "grades" of gasoline. However, what does "grade" mean and what effect does each of them have on your Orlando Toyota when you fill up? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain gasoline grades and how they affect your car's performance. 

What are the three grades of gasoline? 

As noted, there are three grades of gasoline (not counting the green-handled pump - that one is diesel). They're as follows: 

• Regular (87 octane) 
• Midgrade (89-90 octane) 
• Premium (91-94 octane)

You may not see these three particular grades; sometimes, they're referred to as unleaded, super, and super premium. Regardless of what they're called, they exist in grades because of their octane rating. Each grade has a different octane rating (the number on it). Octane ratings are a measure of a fuel's stability and are assigned based on the pressure at which a fuel will spontaneously combust inside an engine. The higher the octane rating of the fuel, the more stable it is. 

So how do the different grades of gasoline affect your Orlando Toyota's performance? If you drive an internal combustion engine car (a typical gasoline-powered car) or a hybrid, your vehicle uses controlled internal combustion to ignite the regular gasoline inside the engine and get things up and running. 

Unstable fuel, on the other hand, can cause spontaneous internal combustion (as opposed to planned, controlled combustion). If spontaneous combustion is taking place inside the engine, it means you have secondary combustion happening as well as uneven fuel dispersion. This leads to high pressure inside the engine, and subsequently, damage to the pistons (which can be expensive to fix). 

The good news is that modern cars have sensors in the engine to detect uncontrolled or secondary combustion inside the engine. These sensors can then delay the controlled combustion to reduce pressure and the damage it could do to your engine. 

That's why octane rating is important to pay attention to when you're choosing your grade of gasoline. Most cars can run on any grade without issue, but it's important to check your owner's manual when you buy a new car. Some cars can only run on premium fuel and will have an issue using anything with a lower octane rating, so be sure to use what's required. 

And contrary to popular belief, putting premium fuel in a car that doesn't require it doesn't reap any benefits. Your car won't perform any better or have fewer issues - you're basically just wasting money. 

Get answers to all of your gasoline questions at Toyota of Orlando

Have questions about gasoline grades and your Toyota? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. 

Should you warm your car up before driving in winter? Toyota of Orlando explains.

 It's about to get COLD in Central Florida. 

Christmas is around the corner and the forecast is calling for temperatures in the 30s (that dip into the 20s once you factor in wind chill). Are you ready for it? And more importantly, is your car ready for it? Toyota of Orlando can help - our techs can check your car battery to ensure it's ready for the cold, as well as make sure your tires are inflated to the proper PSI since your tire pressure will temporarily drop when the cold front moves in. However, today we're here to address one of the most common questions we hear in winter - do you really need to warm your car up before driving in winter? 

Your car's age affects its driving in winter 

Here's the thing: The answer isn't a simple yes or no. It really boils down to your vehicle's age - in years, not miles - for the answer. Our Orlando car care specialists are here to explain. 

When your car sits for an extended period of time - like overnight in your driveway - all of the oil drains out of the engine and into the bottom of the oil pan. When you start your car again, that oil needs to recirculate through the engine to ensure all of the moving parts are lubricated, and that takes time. The amount of time varies based on your car's age. 

This recirculation of the oil is especially important when it's cold outside. Cold takes a toll on your vehicle and if you hit the road without ensuring everything in the engine is lubricated, you run the risk of damaging your pistons, which can lead to a pricey repair. 

Here's the breakdown: 

If your car is older in terms of the model year, you need to let it warm up a little bit before you hit the road. You're not actually warming the engine up - we all know that driving is the most efficient way to make that happen - but you are giving the engine time to recirculate the oil and lubricate everything. 

• Older cars take a little bit more time to make this happen just because they're not as technologically and mechanically advanced as new vehicles. 
• This is where the assumption that you have to warm your car up before driving in winter comes from; you should wait a little bit if your car isn't new. 
• A few minutes is all you need in this scenario. That gives the engine plenty of time to recirculate the oil so you can put the pedal to the metal and hit the road. 

If you drive a newer car, you don't need to let it warm up before driving in winter. Newer cars are much quicker when it comes to recirculating oil so by the time you buckle your seatbelt, adjust the heat, and pick a song from your playlist, you're good to go. 

Even if your car is older, you won't need to let it warm up for more than a few minutes. As we noted, the best way to warm up your car is to drive it. Extended idling just leads to wasted gas and more emissions. 

Let Toyota of Orlando answer your questions about driving in winter 

Still have questions about driving in winter? Toyota of Orlando is here to help. You can call us at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

My car won't start: A quick guide

 So. Your car won't start. 

It's a terrible feeling, we know. There are so many reasons why your car may not be starting and unfortunately, most of them require a visit to our Orlando Toyota service center. We know it means time and money on your part and we understand your stress, which is why we're here to help. Check out these common reasons why your car won't start to pinpoint the issues, and let our Orlando auto service experts get you back on the road today! 

Six reasons your car won't start 

#1: No fuel. This one is an easy fix, luckily. If your car doesn't have gas in it, it won't start. Check your fuel level indicator on your dash to see the level. If it's empty, grab a gas can and make your way to your nearest gas station. Side note: if the tank WAS full and has no reason to be empty, you could have a leak - bring your car into Toyota of Orlando so our techs can inspect things. 

#2: Dead battery. If your car battery dies, you won't be able to get your Orlando Toyota up and running anytime soon. If you hear a clicking noise or just silence when you turn your key in the ignition, you likely have a dead battery. You can try jumping the battery to get things rolling again, but regardless, it's a good idea to have the auto service experts at Toyota of Orlando inspect your battery to see if it needs to be replaced. (Also have them check your alternator.) 

#3: Bad spark plugs. If you have bad spark plugs, your engine can't ignite the fuel and thus, won't start. You may be able to get your car to turn over, but it won't actually start. Our techs can quickly and affordably replace bad spark plugs to get you back on the road. 

#4: Bad ignition switch. If this is the case, you should be able to run accessories like the headlights (your battery is working just fine) but not be able to start the car. Our Toyota of Orlando car care techs can spot the issue and replace your ignition switch for you. 

#5: Faulty engine cylinders. If you hear knocking noises under the hood but your car won't start, it could mean issues with your engine cylinders. Let our techs take a look under the hood to see what's going on. 

#6: Damaged wiring. If your starter wires are loose or damaged, it could prevent your car from starting. In this scenario, you'll often hear a clicking noise when you try to start the car. 

Whatever the case, if your car won't start you have two options. First, check your Orlando Toyota's battery. If you can't turn on the headlights, then you're likely have issues with your car battery and can try to get a jump, but it's still wise to have our car care techs inspect it. 

However, if it's not the battery, your next step should be to call a tow truck and get your vehicle towed to Toyota of Orlando so our techs can get to the bottom of the issue. 

When your car won't start, call Toyota of Orlando

Car won't start? Need service? We've got your back. Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001 or stop by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. We're open seven days a week! 

Prepping your car for driving in winter in Florida

 Winter in Florida... does it really even exist? OK, ok - we know we do typically get a dose of cold weather at the end of December and January. We never see snow and ice is rare, though, so our winter car prep is far different from places that see heavy winter weather. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips on how to prepare your car for driving in winter in FLORIDA - check it out. 

How to prepare your car for a Florida winter 

Driving in winter in Florida looks a lot different because as noted, we don't see snow or sleet, and even ice on the road is a rarity, especially as you move south down the peninsula. Here's how our car care experts think you should handle winter car prep in the Sunshine State. 

#1: Check your battery. Make sure your car battery is in good shape before winter arrives. Sure, it may not drop too low in terms of temp here, but cold weather can have an effect on your car's battery, especially if it's not in the best shape to begin with. Our techs can inspect the battery physically for any signs of leaks or swelling, as well as test the voltage to ensure it has the charge you need to get up and running every day while driving in winter. 

#2: Make sure your heater and defroster work. NOW is the time to make sure your heater and defroster work... not in January when we get a cold front and it actually goes below 50 degrees in the morning. Check to ensure both are functioning properly and if they're not, visit Toyota of Orlando's auto service center to let our techs get to the bottom of things. 

#3: Check your tires. We may not have to drive in snow or on lots of ice, but it's still important to check your tires. You want them to have the proper amount of tread so you have traction, of course, but you also want to ensure they're inflated to the proper level. Remember, cold weather can actually make your tire PSI drop as the air inside of them cools and gets denser. Make sure they're inflated to the proper level to begin with so you don't have uneven tire wear or damage. 

#4: Inspect your wipers. We won't see snow, but as cold fronts move in we will get our fair share of rain. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good enough shape to keep your windshield clear when driving in winter. After all, the summer heat can dry them out and cause cracking and tearing. You want them to be able to clear your windshield in one sweep without leaving smears or streaks. If yours aren't performing, our Orlando Toyota parts store has plenty of options for you to replace them affordably. 

Get ready for driving in winter with Toyota of Orlando

Have questions about prepping your car for driving in winter? Toyota of Orlando always has answers. Call us today to schedule car care at (407) 298-0001 or schedule online. We're open seven days a week with the longest service hours in Central Florida at 3575 Vineland Road! 

How to know if it's time to replace your car's clutch

If you drive a manual transmission car, you know that one of the components you want to take the best care of is the car clutch. This component is integral to performance - without it, you're going nowhere fast. Your clutch enables you to change gears, which allows your car to accelerate and decelerate. It's important to extend the life of your car clutch and also to know when it's time to replace it. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips!  

How to extend the life of your car clutch 

As noted, your car clutch is a critical component of performance. That's why it's important to take care of it and do everything you can to extend its life. After all, replacing your car clutch is an expensive and time-consuming process. Here are some Orlando Toyota tips: 

#1: Don't overheat the clutch. Heat is the enemy of your car clutch - it can severely damage this important part if you're not careful. Always monitor your coolant and cooling system to ensure that the engine, transmission, and clutch stay cool. 

#2: Don't ride the clutch. If you're not using the car clutch to shift gears or start the car, you shouldn't be touching it with your foot. Overusing your clutch or resting your foot on it can cause the clutch to wear out more quickly. Keep your left foot on the floor if you're not using it to actively engage the clutch. 

#3: Your clutch uses hydraulic fluid and over time, it may develop little bubbles in the fluid. When this happens, you'll notice that your car clutch feels "mushy" or less responsive. If this happens, you need to "bleed" the clutch to get all of the bubbles out - our Orlando Toyota service center can help you with that. 

Signs you need to replace your car clutch 

So how do you know if it's time to replace your car clutch? There are important signs to look out for and you should never ignore them - you can damage your gears and even have the clutch go out completely, which leaves your car totally unable to be driven. Here are some signs our Orlando auto service tech recommend looking out for: 

• You hear weird noises, like squeaking, grinding, or rumbling, when you press the clutch 
• Your clutch pedal starts to feel mushy or loose or contrastingly, gets stuck down when you press it 
• Your car has a hard time accelerating and the engine is revving
• Your clutch "slips" - you feel a little loss of acceleration when changing gears before the clutch grabs and you can speed up 
• You have a hard time changing gears in your car 

Think you're having car clutch problems? Toyota of Orlando's service center can help. Call us today at (407) 298-0001 to talk to one of our techs and schedule an appointment. You can also swing by - we're at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

What's that burning smell in my car?

 If you've ever hit the road and then smelled something burning inside the cabin of your car, you know how stressful it can be. No one likes to smell that particular odor - no matter what's causing it specifically, you know that it's nothing good. Toyota of Orlando's car repair experts are here to help you figure out what's causing that burning smell in your car - read on! 

Four burning smells and what they mean for your car

Burning carpet: A burning carpet smell usually indicates that something is up with your brakes. Typically, you'll smell this odor when your brake pads or rotors are overheating (especially if you smell it as you press the brake). Over time, this can prematurely wear your brake pads out as well as cause expensive damage to your rotors. The cause of this? You may have calipers that are sticking, or your brake pads may be too worn down and thin. Bring your car to our car repair center at Toyota of Orlando to have your brakes checked! 

Burning oil: A smell that reeks of burning oil or smoke is probably just that - you could have an oil leak in your car, which is leaking onto the engine or other hot components and causing that terrible smell. Don't just ignore it; not only can an oil leak cause your engine to overheat, but other major problems, too. Leaking oil can damage the timing belt or crankshaft seal, and if it hits the exhaust, it can cause a fire. All in all, it could kill your engine, so get it addressed at Toyota of Orlando. 

Burning rubber: If you smell burning rubber inside the cabin of your car, it's time to bring it to our Orlando car repair center. This odor indicates that you have an issue with something rubber under the hood. It could be a slipping engine belt or a hose that's touched something hot and is starting to melt. Whatever it is, it can do major damage to your engine if left unattended, so don't risk it. Let our techs take a look to see what the issue is. 

Burning plastic: Burning plastic is a pretty alarming smell in its own right, but especially when you smell it inside your Orlando Toyota. This smell can indicate that you've got an issue with your car's wiring - the plastic insulation around it has worn down or been chewed off (mice love it). This means you have exposed wires under your hood, which could touch, cause a spark, and set a fire. However, before you come into Toyota of Orlando, pull over and ensure that you don't have a plastic bag stuck in your exhaust that's melting from the heat. 

Let Toyota of Orlando take care of your car repairs today

Have questions about burning smells in your car? Call us today! Toyota of Orlando's car repair center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. 

How often should I: Car Care Edition

 Do you play the "how often should I" game with yourself when it comes to adulting? How often should you refinance your house? How often should you replace the filter in your water pitcher? How often should you order takeout instead of cooking? The guessing games can be exhausting, and we want to pitch in where we can - your car care. Check out this quick guide from the experts at Toyota of Orlando on how often you should take care of your vehicle's maintenance. 

How often should you take care of certain types of car care? 

How often should I check my oil? 

You should check your oil at least once a month to make sure it's clean and that your car has enough of it. We also recommend this bit of car care before you take a long road trip or drive for extended periods of time to make sure your car can keep up with it. 

How often should I get oil changes? 

Your oil change schedule depends on two things: what type of motor oil you're using, and what your owner's manual recommends. If you're using conventional motor oil, you'll need to schedule this car care at Toyota of Orlando every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If you're using synthetic oil, you usually can go anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Let our car care techs get you on a schedule! 

How often should I check my tire pressure? 

You should check your car's tire pressure every 2-4 weeks and do a visible inspection every day when you get in your car (just take a lap and make sure none of them look like they have low pressure). Additionally, check each tire with a pressure gauge before you take any road trips. 

How often should I get tires rotated? 

This is an easy one - your tire rotations should be scheduled every 5,000 miles. This will help promote even wear on your tires and ensure you don't have to replace them as often, as well as ensure a better performance for you. 

How often should I get brake service? 

You should get brake service every 20,000 miles or so. However, it's a good idea to have your brakes inspected at our Orlando car care center every six months (or every time you come in for a tire rotation) to ensure your brake pads, rotors, and the rest of the system are in good shape. 

How often should I get a multi-point inspection? 

As often as you can! Here's the good news, too - when you visit Toyota of Orlando, you get a complimentary multi-point inspection every single time you visit us. This will allow our techs to troubleshoot and look for issues before they become big and expensive to fix. 

How often should I get a tune-up? 

There's no straight answer for this one - it really depends on your car's make and model. Typically, new cars with electronic ignitions don't need them very often at all. Older cars, however, need them around every 45,000 - 50,000 miles to ensure everything runs as it should. 

Schedule your routine car care at Toyota of Orlando

Have questions about your car care? Toyota of Orlando has answers. Call us today at (407) 298-0001 or stop by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

Does gasoline go bad? Toyota of Orlando explains.

You've got a lot to think about when it comes to the fluids in your car. Do you need to change the oil? Is the coolant too dirty to do its job? Is your windshield wiper fluid low? It can be overwhelming to keep track of (just saying, Toyota of Orlando can help you by getting you on a schedule for your car care and reminding you when you're due). However, we're adding one more thing to your list - gasoline. 

Did you know that gasoline can actually go bad? Whether it's sitting in a tanker, at the gas station, or in the fuel tank of your car, gasoline actually does have a shelf life and can go bad. Here's what you need to know: 

• Regular gasoline is good for 3-6 months before it starts to degrade. 
• Diesel has a longer shelf life - it's typically good for up to a year before it starts any degradation. 
• Ethanol has a shorter shelf life, however - because of oxidation and evaporation, it can start to degrade after just one month. 

What happens if you use bad gasoline in your car? Basically, as gasoline degrades its chemical properties start to change. When this happens, the car's engine can no longer process the gasoline. This can lead to operational problems like the car stalling, not starting at all, idling rough, or losing power when you're trying to accelerate.

How do you know if the gasoline in your Orlando Toyota has gone bad? 

• The problems listed above, for starters. If your car is full of gas, has a tank full of clean oil, and is still experiencing issues like those listed above, then you may have bad gas in the tank. 
• Bad gasoline will also have both a distinct look and a distinct smell. It often looks "muddy" or darker than usual and will smell sour or spoiled - not at all like regular gasoline. 
• It may also make your check engine light turn on, which means you should head to Toyota of Orlando to have things checked out. 

What happens if you put or have bad gasoline in your car? 

If you have bad gasoline in your car, the only remedy is to remove it entirely. If left in the tank and engine, it can create a gummy residue that can cause major damage, including clogging the main fuel line. And if the gas contains ethanol, it can draw in water vapor, which can corrode and destroy components under the hood. Our Orlando Toyota specialists can help you remove the bad gasoline from your car and get up and running again. 

To close things out, here are a few tips to help you NOT end up with bad gasoline in your Orlando Toyota: 

• Avoid gas stations that don't seem busy. The busier the gas station, the more likely it is that they're getting routine deliveries of fresh gas and that their gas hasn't been sitting for a while. 
• Make sure you drive your vehicle, even if just for a short distance. If your car is garaged for whatever reason, try to get it out on the road at least once a week just for a short while to circulate and use the gasoline in the fuel tank. This will also force you to add new, fresh fuel to the tank regularly. 
• Fill up your gas tank all the way - this will prevent there being extra room in the tank for moisture and water contamination. 
• Ask our Orlando Toyota service techs about fuel stabilizers, which can help prevent degradation of the fuel in your car's tank. 

Schedule car care at Toyota of Orlando today

Have questions about your car's gasoline? Call Toyota of Orlando today - we're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. 

Is your car's coolant dirty?

 Your engine coolant is critical to your car's performance. That's why we're always telling you to check it and fill it when necessary - it keeps your engine cool and prevents overheating, which can result in catastrophic damage to your car. Coolant flows through your Toyota's radiator, water pump, hoses, and the engine itself to ensure that everything under the hood maintains a cool enough temperature to function normally. 

Why is engine coolant so important? 

If your engine coolant level is too low or the coolant is too dirty to do its job, it can cause major issues for your Orlando Toyota. Your engine can overheat, as we mentioned, resulting in extremely expensive if not irreparable damage to your vehicle. And not only does your coolant run out over time, it also gets dirty. Remember, it's flowing through the cooling system and while it does, it picks up dirt, debris, and contaminants. So how can you check it? 

First, you'll want to check your coolant level. The easiest way to do this is to turn your Orlando Toyota off, pop the hood, and physically look in the coolant reservoir to see where the level is (there should be a line indicating how high the level should be for optimal performance). Once you've assessed the level, you can check the color of the engine coolant. Normal coolant ranges in color; it can be blue, green, red, or orange depending on which one you use. Rule of thumb, though: it should be translucent (you can see through it). If it's cloudy, opaque, or sludgy, it's dirty and needs to be changed out. Dirty engine coolant becomes thicker and can't flow as easily; it also can't do its job of cooling the engine properly. 

Here are a few other warning signs that your engine coolant is dirty: 

• Your coolant level light and/or check engine light comes on in your dash 
• You have steam coming out from under the hood of your Orlando Toyota 
• You have a coolant leak, which results in puddles under the car of the same color as your engine coolant 
• Your engine's temperature gauge is in the red (your car isn't running cool enough) 

If you notice any of the above signs, it can indicate that your coolant is dirty and you need to visit the Toyota of Orlando auto service center. Our techs can help! In this scenario, it's best to do a coolant flush. And no, we're not trying to upsell you - hear us out. You can drain all the old coolant out and put new coolant in, but that doesn't get rid of the residual dirt and grime left in the lines, hoses, engine, and radiator. A flush will push all of that out so when you put fresh coolant in, it'll stay cleaner longer (saving you time and money). 

Schedule engine coolant service at Toyota of Orlando 

Think you need auto service regarding your engine coolant? Schedule it at our Orlando Toyota service center today. You can schedule online, call (407) 298-4500, or swing by! We're open seven days a week with the longest service hours in Central Florida at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

How do you know if your engine oil is dirty? Toyota of Orlando explains.

 Do you bring your car into our Orlando auto service center regularly to get oil changes? If you do, congrats... and if you don't, you should be. Oil keeps your engine cool and also keeps all of its moving parts lubricated so your car can have a long and efficient life. That's why it's important to keep your vehicle equipped with the proper level of clean engine oil. 

However, as oil circulates through your engine, it's bound to pick up dirt, debris, and grime. Over time, this makes it thick, dirty, and unable to do its job, which means if you don't change it, you're highly likely to have major issues with your engine. How do you know if engine oil is dirty? Toyota of Orlando's car care experts are here to help you spot oil that needs to be changed. 

Toyota of Orlando's instructions on how to check engine oil 

First things first - you need to know how to check your car's oil before you can figure out if it's dirty or not. Here's how you do it: 

• Turn your car off and let it cool down for a minute (this will make it more pleasant under the hood, trust us) 
• Locate the oil dipstick, usually somewhere in the center of the engine 
• Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil on it. 
• There are two tic marks on the end of the dipstick, and that's how you gauge the oil level. The oil should be in between the tic marks. If it's below, your engine doesn't have enough oil. 
• Now, look at the oil itself. It should be dirt- and debris-free and a tan, caramel hue in color. 

Now that you know to check engine oil, it's time to figure out whether it's dirty or not. Here are some surefire signs you need an oil change, according to our Toyota of Orlando service techs: 

• You can actually see dirt and debris in the oil - like, chunks of it. 
• The oil color is dark brown or black. Remember, it should be caramel-colored. Dark brown and black hues mean the engine oil is dirty. 
• Your exhaust is putting out smoke. 
• You can smell oil inside of your Orlando Toyota's cabin while you're driving. 
• You hear knocking sounds when you drive, or you feel like your car is just running a lot louder than it normally does in general. (More engine noise.) 

If you notice that your engine oil is dirty, it's time to bring it into Toyota of Orlando for an oil change. Dirty engine oil can cause big-time expensive damage to your engine - sometimes even irreparable damage. Schedule an appointment at our Toyota service center to get your car's oil clean and full again. 

Schedule an engine oil change with our Toyota service center 

Need to schedule? Call us for an Orlando oil change today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. Schedule online, on the phone, or just stop by! 

What are the main benefits of electric cars?

 Electric cars are a hot topic right now - it seems like everyone is researching them, visiting the dealerships, and considering whether or not to buy one. But what are the real benefits of electric cars? Toyota of Orlando is explaining all of the perks of owning one of these tech-driven cars so you can decide for yourself before signing the dotted line on one. 

The five main benefits of electric cars 

Benefit #1: No gasoline costs. 

When you drive an electric car, you don't need to fill up at the gas station... ever. You'll never have to pay for gas again as electric cars run solely on electricity. And yes, you do have to pay for electricity whether you charge at home or at a public charging station (FYI, it's cheaper to charge at home) but your "fuel" costs will still be significantly less than what they'd be powering an internal combustion car. Your electricity costs will vary depending on where you live and it may be cheaper to charge your car overnight when there's less of a demand for power. 

Benefit #2: Less maintenance required. 

Another electric car benefit is that you don't have an internal combustion engine under the hood, which means you'll need a lot less maintenance. There are far fewer fluids in your electric car so you won't need oil changes, etc. nor will you need spark plug replacements, tune-ups, and other maintenance you'd have to pay for in a traditional gasoline car. In fact, your auto service costs should be about half of what they'd be in an ICE car. All you'll really need to do in terms of car maintenance for your Orlando Toyota electric car is schedule tire service, battery checks, and brake service. Our techs can help keep you on a schedule! 

Benefit #3: Cleaner local performance. 

Electric cars are often touted as one of the cleanest, greenest options out there and on a local level, they are. When it comes to non-local emissions and lithium-ion battery production, they're not as clean as you'd think. But on a local level, electric cars don't put out any emissions. This makes them extremely clean in that aspect and is one of the benefits of electric cars. 

Benefit #4: Tax breaks. 

Did you know that you may be eligible for both state and federal tax breaks for owning an electric car? Be sure to do your research or have your accountant look into it to see what you're eligible for. Money is money, right? 

Benefit #5: Peace and quiet. 

As electric cars don't have internal combustion engines, they're a lot quieter to drive. Your cabin will be quiet and peaceful no matter how fast you're going. Enjoy it! This is also the case in hybrids and plug-in hybrids. 

Ask Toyota of Orlando all of your electric car questions

Have questions about electric cars? Toyota of Orlando has answers. Call us today at (407) 298-4500 or stop by. We're located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and we're open seven days a week until 10pm. 

Roaches in your car: How do you get them out?

 If you've lived in Florida for a while, you've probably come to terms with the fact that roaches are pretty much everywhere. They love it here because it's warm most of the year, which makes it like a vacation destination for them 24/7. They also love to make their way inside cars, where it's also warm, protected from the elements, and (if your car isn't clean) an all-you-can-eat buffet. Toyota of Orlando is here to explain how to get roaches out of your car AND keep them out. 

3 steps to get roaches out of your car 

Like we said, roaches love to hide inside cars and they can multiply pretty quickly if you don't nip the problem in the bud. Here are the steps to take to get roaches out of your car: 

#1: Clean it out immediately. Vacuum the entire car out and wipe all the surfaces down with cleaning solution; on top of that, be sure to scrub out any stains or spills that might be attracting roaches. You should also look for roaches and roach eggs to vacuum out - check places like seatback pockets, under floor mats, cupholders, under seats, your glove box, your center console, and your trunk. And don't forget to check where your spare tire is stored! 

#2: Try traps or bait - these are two of the easiest options for getting roaches out of your car. You can put down roach traps to trap and remove them, sticking the traps in places like your trunk and under your seats. You can also buy gel bait - this method is effective because the roaches will spread the poison back to their colony, but it's also toxic and might not be the best if you have kids or pets in the car. You can also try diatomaceous earth or borax - both are effective. 

#3: Call an exterminator. If you've broken out all the stops and you still have roaches in your car, it's time to call in the professionals and let them handle it. It may be a bit more costly, but when you consider the fact that roaches can carry 30 different types of bacteria, it's worth it. 

Once you've gotten the roaches out of your car, it's time to KEEP them out. Here's how to keep your Orlando Toyota roach-free: 

• Declutter it. Don't leave clutter in the car; it's a great hiding place for roaches to hang out. Keep the bare minimum in your car. 
• Get on a detailing schedule. Leaving crumbs and trash in your car is basically holding the door open for roaches. Get on a car detailing schedule and keep your ride tidy at all times. 
• Close your doors, windows, trunk, and sunroof if you're not in the car. Don't give them any way to enter the vehicle, and also check that the seals on your doors and windows are in good shape. 
• Be careful where you park - avoid parking by dumpsters, trash cans, or heavily wooded areas where roaches might be hiding. 
• Also, be careful what you're transporting. Roaches love to hide in cardboard boxes, plastic grocery bags, old luggage, etc. 

Call Toyota of Orlando with questions 

Have questions about getting roaches out of your car? Call Toyota of Orlando today - we're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 or stop by. We're conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

How to get spiders out of a car: Quick tips

 Whether you have just one or a whole family of spiders living in your car, your first reaction is probably one of utter disgust, and your next is probably to figure out how to get them out of there as quickly as possible. And you'd be right - it's critical to get rid of spiders in your car before they lay eggs and become an even bigger (and more expensive) problem. Toyota of Orlando is here with easy tips on how to get spiders out of your car (and save your sanity). 

Get spiders out of your car

Florida is a beautiful place to live - we've got beaches, lots of sunshine, and unfortunately, lots of spiders. And spiders love taking residence in your car because it's warm, dry, dark, and a great place to both hide from predators and lay their eggs in safety. Here's how you can get spiders out of your car and reclaim your territory. 

• Clean your car ASAP. If you have crumbs and dirt in your Orlando Toyota, you're attracting bugs. And because spiders eat bugs, you're basically hosting a buffet for them. Vacuum and wipe the interior of your vehicle and clean any stains or sticky spots from spills to discourage bugs from hanging out. Further, dig around and look for spider eggs and webs and vacuum them out, too. 
• Try spider repellant. This spray can be found at your local home improvement store (like Lowes or Home Depot); you can spray it around your car, especially in hiding spaces where you think spiders may be hanging out like under seats, your trunk, and in your glovebox or center console. 
• Spider traps may also work. These traps are sticky and emit pheromones that attract spiders, similar to roach traps. 
• Look into a chlorine bomb to set off in your car to kill all the spiders in there as a last resort. Be sure to carefully follow instructions and move through the process as safely as possible. 

If none of the above work, you may need to contact professional exterminators to give you a hand. Don't just ignore it; spiders lay eggs fast and you could end up dealing with a major infestation in no time. 

Prevent spiders in your Orlando Toyota 

The best offense is a good defense, right? Check out these Toyota of Orlando tips for KEEPING spiders out of your car in the first place. 

• Keep it clean - the less dirt and debris, the fewer bugs, which means fewer spiders. (No all-you-can-eat buffet.) 
• Keep it decluttered. Clutter provides hiding spaces for spiders, so keep your backseat, trunk, etc. clear of anything unnecessary. 
• Spritz your vehicle with essential oils. Spiders are naturally repelled by citrus, cedar, peppermint, rosemary, and lavender. Mix a few drops of oil into a spray bottle of water and spritz your vehicle - it'll also smell great. 
• Keep your doors and windows closed when you're not in your car. Also, make sure door seals, window seals, trunk seals, and sunroof seals are all in good condition. 
• Don't park next to construction sites, heavily wooded areas, or dumpsters. 

Want more tips on how to get spiders out of your car? Call Toyota of Orlando's service center experts today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we're located just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. 

Are electric cars better for the environment than other types of vehicles?

 Electric cars have been getting their fair share of attention in the media lately, and with good reason. They're eco-friendly, tech-driven, and offer a one-of-a-kind performance. However, one of the questions that we're hearing pretty often when it comes to EVs revolves around their green performance. Are electric cars really better for the environment? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain. 

Are electric cars better for the environment? Local and non-local emissions explained. 

Here's the thing - the answer isn't as cut-and-dry as most people expect. It's kind of a yes and no situation and a lot of different variables play into the answer. Basically, it all comes down to local emissions and non-local emissions. 

• Local emissions are the emissions that come out of your vehicle directly and affect the places where you drive. Internal combustion engines are guilty of this, putting out emissions every time they hit the road. Electric cars, on the other hand, run on electricity and don't use internal combustion to power themselves so they don't put out emissions. On the local emissions level, they're definitely better for the environment. 
• Non-local emissions are a different story and that's where things start to get a little bit fuzzy on whether or not electric cars are better for the environment. Your electric car runs on electricity, right? You have to use electricity to charge it. However, where your electricity comes from is where the determining factor lies. If your state or city uses fossil fuels as a power source, then technically, your car isn't emissions-free... at least not on the non-local level. If your electricity comes from solar, wind, or hydropower, then you're in better shape. 

It also comes down to the issue of batteries in electric cars. These vehicles use lithium-ion batteries to power themselves. The problem is that these batteries have to be disposed of very carefully; they can't be traditionally recycled or put into a landfill. As more and more electric cars are produced, figuring out what to do with the batteries once they're no longer viable could be a problem. 

Further, it takes a lot of energy to produce this type of battery, which can create even further emissions without you even realizing it. You really have to look at the big picture. 

If you're concerned about emissions and want to ensure that your vehicle is as clean as possible, you'll have to do your due diligence. See where your electricity is coming from before you decide on an electric car; if it comes from fossil fuels, weigh both options, and don't forget about our selection of hybrids and plug-in hybrids. 

What is Toyota's Clean Assist Program? 

And don't forget, Toyota offers the Clean Assist Program. When you charge your electric Toyota, the company will calculate the amount of electricity you're using as well as the net emissions produced by the charging process. Then, they'll generate or buy an equivalent amount of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to ensure that all of your charging activity is matched with zero-carbon electricity. 

Have more questions about whether or not electric cars are really better for the environment? Call Toyota of Orlando today - we've got answers. You can reach us at (407) 298-4500 o come see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. 

How to get mice out of your car: A quick guide

 Have you ever had a mouse in your car? 

It's unnerving, to say the least. As cute as mice can be, it's weird to think of them running around your Orlando Toyota unattended. And when you factor in the majorly expensive damage they can do to your car, they suddenly become a lot less cute. But how do you get mice out of a car, and how do you keep them out? Toyota of Orlando's auto care experts are here with answers. 

Why you need to get mice out of your car

Even if your car is just sitting in the garage collecting dust while you try to find the time to fix or restore it, you still don't want mice running around in it. They can do damage like: 

• Chewing through wiring, thus damaging electronics or your electrical system as a whole. Modern-day wiring insulation is soy-based, which is pretty much irresistible to mice. 
• Chewing on your carper, your seats, or the foam in the seats, leaving you with unsightly and costly repairs. 
• Leaving harmful droppings throughout the car, which is dangerous for you (and also disgusting). 

Needless to say, all of the above is damage you could do without. Electrical wiring damage could run you thousands of dollars in repairs. Your car insurance may cover the damage under the comprehensive policy, but you're still going to have to at least pay the deductible. 

Mice love to live in cars because they're warm and dry, they're a safe place to build a nest, and they're a great place to hide from predators. Here are some giveaway signs you've got a rodent problem in your vehicle: 

• You see mouse droppings or a mouse nest (be sure to check under the hood, too) 
• You smell a musty odor (or you smell mouse droppings) 
• You notice chew or puncture marks on your seats or chewing on your carpet 
• Your electronics stop working or your car won't start 
• You find a dead mouse in your vehicle or in your engine bay 

How to get mice out of your car

So once you've deciphered that you have a rodent in your car, it's time to figure out how to get mice OUT of your car. Here are some top tips: 

• Turn on the heat and park your car in direct sunlight. Mice, like humans, don't like extreme temperatures so if you turn up the heat, you may be able to force them out of the car. 
• Look for the nest and remove it from the car so they don't have a place to call home. 
• Honk your horn. Mice also don't like loud noises and might evacuate if you annoy them enough. 
• Visit your local home improvement store (like Home Depot or Lowes) and look for mice repellant. If you want to go the natural route, peppermint oil is a deterrent. You can soak cotton balls in it and put them throughout your car. (Bonus: your car will smell like Christmas.) 
• Lay down mousetraps. Sticky traps will catch mice so you can remove them from the car yourself. You can find them at home improvement stores. 

How to keep mice out of your car

Once you've gotten the mice out of your car, it's time to prevent them from ever coming back. Here are some Orlando Toyota tips for keeping mice out of your car: 

• Keep your windows and doors closed when you're not in the car. 
• Park inside of a closed garage if you can. 
• Don't park near food sources like bird feeders, trash cans, or dumpsters. 
• Keep your car clean - if you have crumbs and spills all over, it's like a buffet for mice. 

Want more tips on how to get pests out of your car? Toyota of Orlando - as always - is more than happy to oblige. Call us today at (407) 298-4500 or stop by. We're located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. 

What You Need to Know About Your Electric Car Charging Time

 

Can you tell us how long it takes to charge an electric car? If you’re looking into purchasing an  Orlando Toyota electric vehicle we suggest that you stay researching for the best fit for you. When going green, we at Toyota of Orlando, hear many questions regarding the market. However, one of the most frequent questions is about the difference between gas and electric-powered engines. You may be thinking, even though electric cars are eco-friendly and are usually cheaper to operate than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, is it worth it? Here is a breakdown of electric car charging time, charger types, and the basics of what you need to know about electric car charge time from Toyota of Orlando.

Electric Car Charging Time Can Depend on The Type of Car You Have

There are a few factors that come into electric car charging. This can be attributed to many things. Our Orando specialist will break it down by levels:

• Level one chargers - These Orlando vehicles are standard 120-volt chargers. In essence, this means you can plug your car into an outlet of any type including a household outlet. Providing it is three prongs and has enough power to run your car, this will work. Orlando Toyota includes these charging cables that can be used wherever you go. This element can be very helpful during long trips. Unfortunately, this method is the slowest for your Orlando eclectic car charging time, although the most convenient way to charge an electric car. Even though it may be convenient, it can take days before the battery is fully charged. It is ideal for Orlando Toyota plug-in hybrids for short-distance drivers because of its convenience.

 

• Level two chargers - The changes in your electric charge time may be greater but might be worth it with the more powerful charging power at 240 volts. Electric car charging time stations like these are also the most common types you'll find. In order for your car to obtain a full charge from this type of charger, you will need to leave it plugged in overnight (a full charge can take up to ten hours). For convenience, installing this type of charger at home is highly recommended if you are considering an electric Orlando Toyota.

 

• Level three chargers - These Orlando Toyota electric chagring times can vary. Specifically, these types are also known as DC (direct current) fast chargers. This type of charging station can't be installed at your home - it's only available at public stations - but it's the fastest way to recharge your electric Toyota. The typical electric car charging time can be from 20-60 minutes at these types of stations, depending on the vehicle, to get to 80% of their capacity.

Keep in mind that electric charge time range anxiety can be overcome with the right EV range tools. With a home electric charging time station, you can find apps that you will be able to use to locate charging stations near you. You also can forget worrying about running out of charge since you know where to charging station will be located and plan accordingly. It’s possible to monitor your EV charge by using the Toyota app and the multi-information display, and the Orlando Toyota Prius is a great example of this function.

Understand Exactly How to Manage Your Electric Car Charging Time With the Help of Toyota of Orlando

Questions about any Orlando car or electric car charging time? Get in touch with us today. Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and you can stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

Is your car totaled if the airbags deploy?

Have you ever heard someone say that if a car's airbags deploy, the vehicle is automatically totaled? It's not always true, but it's a pretty common misconception. We sat down with the experts at the Toyota of Orlando Collision Center to get the facts behind airbag deployment and what it means for your car insurance, vehicle, and safety down the road. 

What happens if your car's airbags deploy? 

Before we discuss what happens after your car's airbags deploy, let's quickly review what being "totaled" or a "total loss" means. Basically, this is when your car insurance company decides that the repairs the car needs will cost more than the actual cash value of the car. In this instance, it's not worth it to put the money into the vehicle and they'd rather cut you a check that you can use as a down payment on a new vehicle. 

Car insurance companies also have to follow state total loss threshold laws. In Florida, for example, the threshold is 80%. So if the damage and subsequent necessary repair costs for your vehicle exceed 80% of your car's value, the insurance company has to deem it totaled or a total loss. 

Now that we're clear on the mechanics of a total loss, let's talk about what happens when your car's airbags deploy. Many drivers automatically assume that if the airbags deploy, the car is totaled. However, there are a few different factors that play into the end result, according to our Orlando Toyota Collision experts. 

• The cost of repairs and the value of the car are the two main determining factors. If the cost of the repairs to the car after an accident is going to exceed the cash value of the car (or the state threshold), it's a total loss. The reason so many people associate airbag deployment with total loss is that typically if the car accident was bad enough to deploy the airbags, there's going to be a lot of other damage to your vehicle. 

• Your car's age can also play a determining role in whether or not it's totaled after your airbags deploy. Older vehicles have less value so they're more likely to meet that total loss threshold if they have a fair amount of damage and deployed airbags. 

• If you get hit by another driver and they're determined to be at fault, their insurance will have to pay to replace your car's airbags. However, the total loss threshold still applies. 

• Once they have deployed, your car's airbags should not be used again and should instead be replaced. Reusing old airbags can have consequences - future buyers can sue you if they get into an accident, you can be fined by the state, and your insurance company could refuse coverage. Additionally, if you don't replace the airbags or reuse the old ones, your chances of getting into a fatal accident go up by 30%. 

• Replacing airbags is a time-consuming and expensive process which is why it's such a big deal to car insurance companies. 

Visit Toyota of Orlando for all of your auto repairs after an accident 

Have more questions about a car with deployed airbags, or need auto repairs after an accident? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall, and you can reach us at (407) 298-0001. 

How to react if your car gets struck by lightning

 If you have lived in Florida over the period of even one summer, you know just how bad those afternoon thunderstorms can be. Torrential rains, high winds, hail, tornadoes... they can be just as alarming as any hurricane and can pop up without much warning. However, one of the most dangerous elements of these storms is the lightning that rolls in with them. And Central Florida - Geneva (east Orlando) specifically - is renowned for its lightning; it's actually the lightning strike capital of the state. Driving in one of these storms can be stressful and today we're looking into what happens and how you should react if your car gets struck by lightning. 

What should you do if your car gets struck by lightning? 

First things first - if your car gets struck by lightning and you're sitting inside of it with the windows closed, you should be fine. The car itself is a hard metal shell and it should deflect the electrical energy around you. That being said, here are the steps to take if your Orlando Toyota gets struck by lightning: 

If you're sitting in the car, immediately pull over and turn your hazard lights on. However, take special care NOT to touch anything that's metal. Plastic is OK, metal is not - electrical current could still be running through it. 

• Call for help (local emergency services) but sit still with your hands in your lap for at least 30 minutes or until help arrives. Again, do not touch anything metal! 
• Once you've safely exited the car, be sure to call your insurance company and report the lightning strike as a claim. You want to file as soon as possible so you can prove the damage is from the strike - physical damage from the strike is easy to prove, but mechanical and electrical can be harder to link to lightning, so don't delay. Your comprehensive coverage should cover the strike. 

If you're out of the car, do not touch it for at least 30 minutes, not even to open it and grab something out. Instead, call emergency services if necessary and also call your insurance company to get the claim started. 

What happens to the vehicle itself when your car gets struck by lightning? 

Lightning can do a number on your car even if you're left unharmed by the strike. Here's some of the damage you might notice on your Orlando Toyota: 

• Electrical system damage. Lightning can destroy computer chips, break electronic devices like your audio system, and melt/fry electrical systems (which can leave your car stranded with no way to get up and running). 
• Deployed airbags. When your car gets struck by lightning it can actually deploy the airbags, believe it or not. Depending on the rest of the damage to your car, it may be declared totaled by the insurance company. 
• Engine damage. Lightning can damage your car's engine and prevent you from being able to start it. 
• A fire. Lightning can easily start a fire in your car, which can lead to costly and even irreparable damage to it. 
• Paint, glass, and plastic damage. Lightning can damage paint, melt plastic, and cause the glass to break on the exterior of your car. 

Have questions or think you need auto repairs after your car gets struck by lightning? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.