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.