Your car battery test and signs of a failing car battery

 Your car battery can die for a number of reasons at the most inconvenient times, sometimes leaving you and your car in a dangerous situation. A car battery test can be a preventative measure and will ensure you are in the right place to swap it out altogether. Car batteries contain an acidic solution that should be handled by a professional. Check out our guide to car battery tests, done right here at our Orlando auto service center. 

4 Signs your car battery is failing 

Car batteries can be tricky, but knowing the signs of a failing car battery can be the difference between swapping out your battery or being stuck with a car that won’t start. Taking note of the health of your car battery can lead to a long lasting car. Here’s what you need to look out for:

• Your car battery light pops up on your dashboard (first important sign).

• Your car is slow to start or does not start at all. 

• Your headlights appear dim.

• There is corrosion (rust or gunk) on the battery itself.

If you’ve noticed any of the signs of a failing car battery, schedule a test at our Orlando Toyota service center. Our team of technicians can quickly assess and test the battery to provide you with the best option. Being able to keep an eye out  for any of these signs 

Do you need a new car battery?

You’ve noticed the signs and you scheduled your car battery test at the Orlando Toyota service center, or by another car maintenance center. Now what happens? Well the tech uses a device that sends a jolt of electricity is sent through the battery and one of three readings appears:

• Good: This is a great sign. Your battery is in great condition and won’t need replacing for another few months. Despite this you should always keep an eye out for any other signs as seasons come and go. Extremely hot summers in Orlando can cause issues for your car battery. A “good” result can weaken over time due to the weather.

• Weak: Oh no. This means your battery is performing lower than it should. This can be a result of the weather taking its toll or even leaving your lights on longer than needed. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to replace your battery right away BUT you are at risk of your battery dying sooner. 

• Replace now: It’s time. You need to replace the battery as soon as possible. This is a reading that appears when the battery is already dead.

Schedule your car battery test at Toyota of Orlando

Our techs recommend scheduling a car battery test at least twice a year or every 6,000 miles.  If you do notice any of the issues mentioned above, schedule your appointment as soon as possible, be safe and rest assured your battery will last. Schedule service at Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road and you can schedule online OR call us at (407) 298-4500!

What Happens If You Overfill Your Gas Tank?

If you’ve ever wondered about the repercussions of an overfilled gas tank, our Toyota of Orlando team is here with some helpful information and tips. An overfilled gas tank isn’t a super common issue, but of course, this happens every now and then and can cause quite a panic if you’re unprepared. Let’s talk about what to do when you overfill your gas tank and what kind of damage it can cause to your vehicle. 

Consequences Of An Overfilled Gas Tank

So, What happens if you overfill your gas tank at the gas station? An overfilled gas tank can actually cause real damage to your vehicle (not to mention stain your shoes!). It causes problems with fuel efficiency, the emissions system, and starting and accelerating. Also, gasoline can pollute soil and water sources when spilled on the ground. Here’s what our Orlando Toyota team can share about it: 

Purge Valve Failure: This can end in rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and emission issues.

Damaged Solenoids: If this happens, it can actually prevent your vehicle from starting. 

Saturated Charcoal Canister: This can make things difficult when you try to fill your car with gas, and it can create the smell of gasoline in the cabin. 

Let’s talk about what to do if you find yourself in this situation!

What to do when you overfill your gas tank

Okay, so if you overfill the gas tank just one time, it probably won’t cause your Orlando Toyota vehicle any harm. However, gasoline is a huge fire hazard, and you should definitely try to clean yourself and your car up as quickly as you can. The best thing you can do after that is take steps to prevent this from happening again. Here are some of the ways you can avoid an overfilled gas tank:

Stay close to the pump! Don’t leave your car unattended while gas is pumping. It can be tempting, especially when using the lock on the pump handle - but you want to be there to keep an eye on it.

When you hear the click indicating that your tank is full, take the pump out immediately. Whether you’re holding the pump yourself or have it locked in place, be ready to remove it quickly. 

There’s no need to attempt “topping off” your gas tank. Once you hear the click, your tank is full! Trying to add a little more will either do nothing or cause the tank to overflow, so it’s not really worth the risk. 

Visit Toyota of Orlando for More Fuel Related Info

Now you know what happens if you overfill your gas tank, but if you have other questions we’re happy to help! Contact Toyota of Orlando’s service techs today at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia!