How to Clean Car Wheels for Beginners

When you think of cleaning your car or car detailing in general, you need to know how to clean car wheels. This overlooked portion of your ride is not only satisfying but also important! At Toyota of Orlando, we’re “ Making it Simple™” and breaking down how to do it right, products you’ll need and more!

Why Clean Your Wheels?

These are the shoes of your Orlando Toyota; they take on the dirt, grime, and even brake dust. Every time you hit those brakes, there are tiny particles that come off your brake pad,s and the dust sticks to your wheels. Over time, the brake dust can corrode the finish and damage your wheels. In addition, you want to consider safety! If there’s excessive dirt, it can cover up any damage or cracks on your wheels. Car detailing comes in handy when you’re thinking of resale value, especially with an Orlando Toyota! If you regularly clean your ride, this prevents any permanent stains or corrosion. 

Car Detailing Supplies You Need

Before we get into how to clean car wheels, you’ll need a few car detailing supplies. First, you’ll need wheel cleaner specifically for your type of wheels, such as alloy, chrome, painted, and more. If you’re unsure what kind of wheels you have, check the owner’s manual in your Orlando ride. Now, you’ll need a wheel brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching and a microfiber towel for drying and buffing. In addition, don’t forget a bucket of water for rinsing and a hose or pressure washer for tougher grime and dirt. You can even add tire cleaner and tire shine for a shiny touch. 

The Process

Now that you have all the supplies, you’re ready to get into how to clean car wheels and car wash basics! Pro tip from our Toyota of Orlando parts specialists: make sure you always start with your wheels first. You don’t want any dirt and grime splashing on your paint. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Rinse: Using a hose or pressure washer, rinse away any dirt and brake dust. This will help avoid any scratches. 

2. Spray Cleaner: You need to get cleaner all over the wheel; let it sit for one to two minutes, or be sure to follow the instructions on the product! Don’t let the product dry! Something important to note on how to clean car wheels: don’t use harsh home cleaners or degreasers. 

3. Scrub: Grab your brush and dip it into your bucket with clean water, and then you can start scrubbing. Now, an important how to clean car wheels tip: be sure to get the face, between the spokes and around the lug nuts. 

4. Rinse Again: Be sure to rinse off all the product and make sure there is no dirt left behind. 

5. Dry: Using your microfiber towel, dry your wheels. Be sure to keep this microfiber towel specifically for your tires to avoid cross-contamination of chemicals on your Orlando Toyota.

We talked about the optional tire spray for a shine once you’ve cleaned everything. Go ahead and spray your tires. This can really make your Orlando Toyota sparkle! 

Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Car Wheels

When wondering how to clean car wheels, you might want to know what the experts think. Our Toyota of Orlando team recommends the following:

• Clean your wheels regularly.

• Never clean your wheels immediately after driving; this can damage the finish, and the cleaner can dry fast!

• Be sure to use separate tools. A key on how to clean car wheels is using different tools. This will help you avoid scratching your ride or chemically damaging your paint. 

• Protect your wheels. After learning how to clean car wheels, you’ve put in the work! You can use wheel wax or a seal to make cleaning easier and even help repel brake dust. 

These tips and tricks are just a few things that can help you answer how to clean car wheels.

Wheel Cleaning Products

Now, what products should you be using? Whether you’re shopping in person at Toyota of Orlando or online, there are a few beginner-friendly products that have some great reviews.

• Meguiar’s Hot Rims Wheel Cleaner

• Chemical Guys Diablo Gel

• Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus

• Mother's Wheel Brush

• Chemical Guys Tire and Rubber Cleaner

These products are typically great for regular maintenance, changing colors, and being tough on grime and they can get your tires looking like new. You’ll want to go through the reviews and see which works best for your ride. If you aren’t sure, you can always contact our Toyota of Orlando parts specialists for more information and help. 

Get Your Detailing Products at Toyota of Orlando

Now you know how to answer how to clean car wheels and what you need. If you’re looking for guidance or products, you can come on down to Toyota of Orlando. We’re just off the I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia or you can give us a call at (407) 298-4500 today.

A Guide to the Best Service Center for You

Whether you go to your local Toyota Service Center or find a private shop, you need to know what to look for. Our trusted team at Toyota of Orlando is “Making it Simple™” and breaking down what to look for, what to ask and more! 

Types of Auto Service Centers 

There’s different types of Auto service centers; there’s two major options to know. Whether you choose a Toyota service center or another option, it’s important to know what’s out there! Now this is also dependent on the car you have and what service you need. Here are the differences:

• Dealerships: A dealership service department, like a Toyota service center, is familiar with the cars they sell. They’ll know common issues, have the latest equipment and have access to any special service advisories from the automaker. 

• Independents: While these shops may be cheaper, the quality can vary and they may not have the tools or expertise to work on your car. 

Searching for a Auto Service Center 

When you’re looking for a trusted mechanic, you need to look at online reviews, how they respond to reviews and how long they have been in business. Once you’re ready to visit the Toyota service center in person, you need to look for a few more details. We’re talking;

• Appearance and amenities: A clean and well-organized shop shows attention to detail and an effort to their image. You’ll also want to look for a comfortable waiting area and clean bathrooms. Some places will even offer a courtesy shuttle service, like at Toyota of Orlando! Our courtesy shuttle service takes you within five miles of the dealership while you wait for service. 

• Technicians: Look for any certifications or service training; this could be advertised in the shop or online. If you don’t see any, be sure to ask your service advisor or an employee. Our Orlando Toyota service center has 40 certified technicians working on your vehicle! 

• Warranty: You’ll want to ask about a 12-month/12,000-mile parts and labor warranty on the work provided. Our Orlando Toyota service center repairs are backed by this warranty and we’ll even send you reminder emails about your recommended maintenance schedule. 

What to Ask at Your Orlando Auto Service Center

When you’re getting service done on your car, you should be asking questions. Now, before you start asking questions, be sure to describe any issues you’re having with your car. An important question you should ask your Toyota service center tech what they believe the issue can be. You’ll also want to ask other questions like

• How long will repairs take?

• How will you communicate with me regarding any updates?

• What’s included in my service?

• Do you specialize in my make and model?
  

A trusted Toyota service center technician will be able to answer these questions. Our Toyota of Orlando team is able to help answer these questions and any others you might come across. 

Get your Service Today at Toyota of Orlando

You want to service your car with a trusted team who knows the ins and outs of your ride. That’s why our Orlando Toyota Service Center technicians are here to help. Schedule your service online or come on down; we’re at 3575 Vineland Road or you can give us a call at (407) 298-0001.

Best Car Maintenance Tips for Beginners

You’ve just got a new car—how exciting! Let’s talk about car maintenance tips for beginners; this will help your car last longer and maintain it’s value. We’re “Making it Simple™” for you at Toyota of Orlando and breaking down everything you need to know. 

6 Car Maintenance Tips for Beginners

Before we get into it, let’s talk about your maintenance schedule. Our Toyota of Orlando service techs recommend you schedule appointments based on your mileage. This means getting an oil change every 3,000 miles and getting that tire rotation every 30,000 miles. If you aren’t sure, you can always consult your owner’s manual. Now, what are the car maintenance tips for beginners? Our Toyota of Orlando experts recommend the following: 

1. Check your oil. Your car oil keeps the engine from overheating and breaking down! Most Orlando Toyotas will tell you when you have low oil or if there’s any engine problems. It’s important to get regular oil changes and have your oil topped off. You’ll want to check this at least once a month and before taking a long trip. 

2. Keep an eye on your car battery. Make sure your battery isn’t swollen, leaking or has any gunk. It’s important to make sure it’s free and clear! You’ll also want to keep jumper cables in your car just in case. This is important to remember out of all the car maintenance tips for beginners. 

3. Check your tire pressure. With the TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) in Orlando Toyotas, this is easy. Your ride will alert you to low tire pressure and, in some models, even tell you which tire! To be sure you’re filling all your tires up with the right amount of air, consult your owner’s manual. The PSI or amount of air pressure your tires need, depends on the model. For example, the Toyota Highlander tire pressure is recommended for 36 PSI. 

4. Check your windshield wipers and wiper fluid. It’s easy to tell when your wipers are wearing out. They’ll stop working as efficiently and when your fluid is low, they can stop spraying altogether. Make sure you’re switching out your wipers correctly and timely to avoid any possible accidents. 

5. Inspect your brakes. Now this might be harder to do, but you can always consult with an Orlando Toyota tech! If you notice it’s taking longer to brake, your foot is going lower than usual, or you even hear screeching - it’s time! This is one of the top car maintenance tips for beginners. 

6. Keep an eye out for warning lights. This is the easiest way to maintain your Orlando ride. You’ll notice warning lights pop up for all kinds of things like your engine, oil, tire pressure and more. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get that service done as soon as possible. That’s why these car maintenance tips for beginners are so important! 

Schedule Your Car Maintenance at Toyota of Orlando 

Now that you have top car maintenance tips for beginners, come on down! Our team at Toyota of Orlando is ready to help you. We’re just off the I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia or you can give us a call at (407) 298-0001.

Car Maintenance Checklist: Everything You Need

There’s so many ways to keep your ride going; with this car maintenance checklist, you’ll know exactly what to do. Our Toyota of Orlando service techs have got the best checklist so you can keep your ride longer and even maintain that resale value! 

Tools and Equipment

Before you can get into your car maintenance checklist, you’ll need a few tools and equipment first (especially in a DIY situation). Our Toyota of Orlando service techs recommend the following: 

• Fluids: You’ll need coolant, oil, brake fluid, and wiper fluid at minimum. These keep your car from overheating, keep your engine running, and keep your windshield in good condition. 

• Tire Pressure Gauge: It’s good to have this tool handy; it allows you to check your tire pressure right at home! This is especially useful if you have an older Orlando ride, and for checking that spare tire. 

• Wire brush: With a wire brush and a little soda, you can carefully clean your car battery!

• Car Cleaners: Whether it’s inside or out, you need the right kinds of car cleaning materials. Make sure you use the correct cleaners for your interior, depending if it’s fabric or leather. If you have any car paint stains, using the right cleaner can keep that exterior looking like new.

If you’re looking for the right tools for your ride, our Toyota of Orlando specialists can help you find exactly what you need! 

Your Car Maintenance Checklist

You’ve got the tools; now here’s what you can do at home! This car maintenance checklist is perfect for every ride. Our Toyota of Orlando techs suggest checking the following:

• Important fluids: This is key to the car maintenance checklist; you’ll need to check your oil and coolant at least. These fluids keep your car engine from overheating and getting damaged. You’ll need to check the oil level and color to know when it’s time for an oil change or when the oil needs to be topped off. 

• Your tire pressure and the tire condition: Be sure to check all four tires (don’t forget the spare) with a tire pressure gauge. When checking the condition, you can grab a penny and stick it in the tread. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, you need some new tires! 

• Battery condition: Pop the hood and take a peek at the battery. You’ll need to look for things like corrosion, rust, swelling or leaking! If it’s just gunk or crust, you can use a wire brush to clean that right off with a bit of soda. 

• DIY or professional cleaning: To really keep your car looking like new, you’ll need to clean it or have it cleaned. You can empty the trash, wipe down surfaces, wash the exterior and don’t forget to add a coat of wax to the exterior!

You can always get service done at Toyota of Orlando if you’re unsure about any of these checklist items! 

Finish your Car Maintenance Checklist at Toyota of Orlando!

Ready to check off that car maintenance checklist? Our team of experienced techs at Toyota of Orlando can help you. Conveniently schedule your appointment by giving us a call at (407) 298-0001, or stop on by; we’re just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia. 

Your Guide to Tires for Toyota Tundra Drivers

You've just hopped into a new Toyota Tundra, or you already have one in your driveway. You’ll need to know about the best tires for Toyota Tundra drivers. Tire care is one of the most important aspects of car maintenance. We’re “Making it Simple™” for you at Toyota of Orlando and breaking it down.

What are the best tires for Toyota Tundra drivers?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about the best tires for Toyota Tundra drivers. Our service experts at Toyota of Orlando recommend: 

• All-season tires: These are perfect for any drive in Orlando, daily driving, towing, hauling and even if you plan on going out of state. Brands to look for are Michelin, Goodyear and Toyo. 

• All-terrain tires: These are perfect for those off-roading and overlanding days or if you’re just exploring outdoors. These are perfect for any kind of terrain you may encounter. Some brands for this include Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires or Michelin LTX Trail all-terrain tires.

You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled; there's plenty of models of the Orlando Toyota Tundra that come equipped with these off-roading tires! To make it even easier, we offer all-terrain, off-roading and all-season tires for purchase at Toyota of Orlando. 

Toyota Tundra Tire Size: The Facts

Every Toyota Tundra tire size is based on the year and model of your ride; let’s not forget the modifications. Here’s a few for 2022 and newer models:

• SR: 245/75R18

• SR5: 265/70R18, 265/60R20

• Limited: 265/60R20

• TRD Pro: 285/65R18

• Limited: 265/60R20

• Platinum: 265/60R20

• Capstone: 265/50R22

• 1974 Edition: 265/60R20

If you’re still not sure which tires for Toyota Tundra drivers are best, you can check your owner’s manual or the Toyota app. You can even visit us at Toyota of Orlando, and our parts specialists can help you find the right tires. 

Making your tires for Toyota Tundra last

You’ve got all the info, but how can you make those tires for Toyota Tundra last? There’s a few ways to keep your tires lasting longer and cared for. Here’s a few tips our Toyota of Orlando service experts recommend. 

1. Tire Rotations: It’s important to rotate your tires; this will keep an even tread and a longer life. The recommended maintenance for your Toyota is about every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

2. Routine Inspections: Make sure you keep an eye on your tires. You can walk around once a week and check for any punctures, tears, blisters or even sidewall separation. With damage to your tires, this can lead to a blowout or flat! It’s easier to replace a tire in your driveway at our service center than on the side of the road. 

3. Proper inflation: Keeping your tires at the recommended PSI is important; underinflated tires can wear out fast and affect your fuel efficiency. Overinflated tires can lead to blowouts and are a safety hazard. If you’ve kept your original tires for Toyota Tundra, you can check your owner’s manual. 

4. Replacements: Bald tires or tires in poor condition can be a major risk to you and your passengers. You’ll want to replace your tires as soon as you notice any issues!

Get your tires for Toyota Tundra at Toyota of Orlando 

Is it time for new tires? Our team at Toyota of Orlando is here to help you. Shop our selection by stopping by in person at 3575 Vineland Road. You can give us a call seven days a week at (407) 298-001 or even schedule an appointment online.

The Toyota Service Checklist You Need

Between life and work, you may be neglecting your Toyota service! This is basic car maintenance that helps you avoid car repairs and keep that resale value high. Our Toyota of Orlando service techs are giving you the ultimate checklist.

1. Read Your Owner’s Manual

This may sound obvious, but this is important to your Toyota service. The owner’s manual tells you what recommended services should happen and when. There’s even information on the type of oil and gas you should be using for your Orlando Toyota. It will even cover information on how to diagnose problems and other basic information about the features of your car.

2. Oil Changes

An oil change is the simplest Toyota service that can keep your car running smoothly. With newer Toyotas, our Orlando service technicians recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles or 3 months if you use conventional oil. Now, with synthetic oil, this can be changed every 5,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on your ride. Clean oil lubricates your engine’s moving parts; by not maintaining the oil in your car, you can void your warranty and possibly cause engine failure.

3. Tire Pressure 

Check your tire pressure; this is an easy Toyota service you can do at home or by using the integrated system in your car. Keeping your ride properly maintained is great for prolonging its life and the potential resale value! Now, our Orlando service technicians recommend using a tire gauge or just checking your tire pressure sensor if you have a newer Toyota. With the correct tire pressure, this can help you with better fuel efficiency and keep track of your tire wear. This also helps you keep an eye on the alignment of your ride. Don’t forget about that spare tire!

4. Tire Rotation

Your front tires and back tires carry different loads and even vary depending on the car you have. This Toyota service is important; it’s easy to forget about this until it's too late! Our Toyota of Orlando technicians recommend getting your tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. During your service appointment, be sure to have the balance checked on your tires and a possible alignment of your wheels every few rotations. Keeping your tires aligned, balanced and rotated can keep your car running in great shape! This also stretches the life of your tires!

5. Fluids

Just like your tires, this is such an important part of your Toyota service! Checking your fluid levels: even if one of our Toyota of Orlando techs does this for you, it’s still good to know how to check yourself. There’s a few fluids you should keep fresh and full, like:

• Transmission Fluid

• Power Steering Fluid

• Brake Fluid

• WasherFluid

• Motor Oil

• Air Conditioning Coolant

6. Battery

Checking your car battery is a key component to maintaining your ride, so while you’re checking the fluids in your Orlando Toyota, you’ll want to take a peek. Your battery shouldn’t have any corrosion or buildup on the terminals (usually black and red). Now if you need to see gunk, you can clean this with a battery cleaning brush, or you can have your Toyota service done by one of our techs!

7. Warning Lights

These are the worst; warning lights can pop up at any time, which can turn into a bigger Toyota service issue down the road. This is why it’s important to know what each warning light means and what to do. These lights can range from low gas to low oil or coolant or even tire issues. Make sure to schedule a service appointment with one of our Toyota of Orlando techs if you notice one of these dashboard lights. 

8. Belts

Yes, your car has belts! The serpentine belt is one of the two most important belts you have. It’s usually made of rubber and used to help car parts like the AC condenser, water pump, power steering and even your alternator. If this gets damaged, your Orlando Toyota can overheat and stop!

Another belt is the timing belt or chain; this is inside your car's engine. It controls the engine valves opening and allows your fuel and air into the engine cylinders. This also helps drive the oil or water pump, depending on the type of engine you have. It’s important to get this Toyota service done if you suspect any damage to either of these belts.

9. Wipers 

One of the most forgotten parts on your car, it’s important to replace your wipers. This Toyota service can be done by yourself or by one of our Orlando Toyota techs. Old or worn-out wipers will make it harder to wipe away that water and dirt, which makes it harder to see the road. It’s better to replace your wipers before it’s too late. 

10. Brakes

This Toyota service is one of the most important appointments to make. Getting your brakes checked and replaced can stop you from damaging your car or even having an accident. Many Orlando Toyotas have warning lights that will alert you if your brakes need attention. Even if you have an older model, you can hear squeaking or a metal grinding sound when you brake.

Schedule Your Toyota Service at Toyota of Orlando

From wipers to tire rotations, our team at Toyota of Orlando is ready to help you! Schedule your service appointment by giving us a call at (407) 298-0001 or stop on by! We’re just off I-4 across from the Mall at Millenia.