Blog

With gas prices rising and a daily commute becoming more common again, chances are that getting some sort of alternative fuel vehicle has crossed your mind. We get it - paying for gas is annoying (especially right now) and electric cars also have the benefit of being extremely eco-friendly. However, what is an electric car and how will it benefit your drive time? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain exactly what electric vehicles are and how they work. What you need to know about electric cars First, let's talk about what electric cars are. Essentially, they're exactly what they sound like. All-electric cars run solely on electricity that's stored in a battery; to keep them up and running, you have to plug the car into a special electrical outlet and let it charge. Here are a few more points to keep in mind: These cars don't use gasoline at all. They run solely on an electric charge, which makes them different from Orlando Toyota hybrids and hybrid plug-ins. Hybrid and hybrid plug-in cars can both run on electric charge, but not for long periods of time or at high speeds. In those scenarios, they rely on a gasoline engine to power them. Electric cars never "swap off" and rely solely on their battery charge to keep them moving. Electric cars also require a lot less maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars or even hybrids. This is because they don't use oil, so you won't ever need oil changes. They also don't require transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Things stay a lot cleaner under the hood so maintenance is simpler. All you'll really need to do is get routine tire rotations and keep an eye on things like your brakes, battery, and coolant here at our Orlando auto service center. Electric cars may seem like a new fad, but trust us - they're not a fad and they've been around a lot longer than you think. These eco-friendly cars have actually existed since 1881 but didn't gain popularity or reputation until the 1990s. This is when - believe it or not - Toyota actually put out a Toyota RAV4 EV, which was completely powered by electricity. (And it was a collaboration with Tesla!) However, this rookie EV topped out at a speed of 78 mph and could only travel around 100 miles on a charge, making it impractical for everyday drivers. Since then, however, electric cars have come a LONG way. We're all familiar with Tesla, of course, as they've been a frontrunner in the EV movement. However, Toyota has had electric options in the works since the Toyota RAV4 EV and one is arriving this summer - the all-new Toyota bz4X. And there are tons of benefits to driving an electric car. Here are a few to consider: Less car maintenance - remember, no oil changes or fluids except for the coolant, so you won't be coming into Toyota of Orlando as often for car care. NO GAS. We repeat - NO GAS. You won't have to stop and fill up at the pump; you just need to charge your car according to the range you have left, either at home or at a charging station. Electricity isn't free, of course, but it's far cheaper than filling your car up with gas. Top technology. Not only will you have the best tech possible under the hood, but you'll also have it in the cabin. The new bz4X, for example, features highlights like cloud-based navigation, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and a digital key with remote start. Rebates. You might also be eligible for state and local rebates for driving such a clean car. This means money in your pocket. Instant torque. Electric cars can be FAST - you have instant torque at your fingertips, which means serious get-up-and-go. Toyota of Orlando has answers to your electric car questions Have questions about electric cars, hybrids, or anything in between? Toyota of Orlando has answers. Call us today! Our Orlando Toyota dealership is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. You can also follow us on social media for more updates about the upcoming arrival of the all-new Toyota bz4X!

With gas prices rising and a daily commute becoming more common again, chances are that getting some sort of alternative fuel vehicle has crossed your mind. We get it - paying for gas is annoying (especially right now) and electric cars also have the benefit of being extremely eco-friendly. However, what is an electric car and how will it benefit your drive time? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain exactly what electric vehicles are and how they work. What you need to know about electric cars First, let's talk about what electric cars are. Essentially, they're exactly what they sound like. All-electric cars run solely on electricity that's stored in a battery; to keep them up and running, you have to plug the car into a special electrical outlet and let it charge. Here are a few more points to keep in mind: These cars don't use gasoline at all. They run solely on an electric charge, which makes them different from Orlando Toyota hybrids and hybrid plug-ins. Hybrid and hybrid plug-in cars can both run on electric charge, but not for long periods of time or at high speeds. In those scenarios, they rely on a gasoline engine to power them. Electric cars never "swap off" and rely solely on their battery charge to keep them moving. Electric cars also require a lot less maintenance than traditional gasoline-powered cars or even hybrids. This is because they don't use oil, so you won't ever need oil changes. They also don't require transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Things stay a lot cleaner under the hood so maintenance is simpler. All you'll really need to do is get routine tire rotations and keep an eye on things like your brakes, battery, and coolant here at our Orlando auto service center. Electric cars may seem like a new fad, but trust us - they're not a fad and they've been around a lot longer than you think. These eco-friendly cars have actually existed since 1881 but didn't gain popularity or reputation until the 1990s. This is when - believe it or not - Toyota actually put out a Toyota RAV4 EV, which was completely powered by electricity. (And it was a collaboration with Tesla!) However, this rookie EV topped out at a speed of 78 mph and could only travel around 100 miles on a charge, making it impractical for everyday drivers. Since then, however, electric cars have come a LONG way. We're all familiar with Tesla, of course, as they've been a frontrunner in the EV movement. However, Toyota has had electric options in the works since the Toyota RAV4 EV and one is arriving this summer - the all-new Toyota bz4X. And there are tons of benefits to driving an electric car. Here are a few to consider: Less car maintenance - remember, no oil changes or fluids except for the coolant, so you won't be coming into Toyota of Orlando as often for car care. NO GAS. We repeat - NO GAS. You won't have to stop and fill up at the pump; you just need to charge your car according to the range you have left, either at home or at a charging station. Electricity isn't free, of course, but it's far cheaper than filling your car up with gas. Top technology. Not only will you have the best tech possible under the hood, but you'll also have it in the cabin. The new bz4X, for example, features highlights like cloud-based navigation, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and a digital key with remote start. Rebates. You might also be eligible for state and local rebates for driving such a clean car. This means money in your pocket. Instant torque. Electric cars can be FAST - you have instant torque at your fingertips, which means serious get-up-and-go. Toyota of Orlando has answers to your electric car questions Have questions about electric cars, hybrids, or anything in between? Toyota of Orlando has answers. Call us today! Our Orlando Toyota dealership is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. You can also follow us on social media for more updates about the upcoming arrival of the all-new Toyota bz4X!

Have you ever gotten pulled over for going over the speed limit when driving? It happens (to many of us) and can result in a warning if you're lucky and a ticket if you're not. What about under the speed limit - have you ever been pulled over for driving too slowly? Believe it or not, that can actually happen, too. Speed limits are real, backed by both science and law, and are enforced with the threat of tickets, license suspensions, and even jail time. They're also in place to keep both you and other drivers safe when you hit the road. It's important to understand them before you get behind the wheel, and that's where Toyota of Orlando comes in! Toyota of Orlando explains how speed limits come to exist First, let's talk about what speed limits are and how they're determined by the folks in charge. Basically, a speed limit is just what it sounds like - it's a limit to how fast you can drive in that particular area. They're determined by infrastructural engineers and they have to consider quite a few factors before they can decide what the safest speed is for that stretch of road. After the roads are blueprinted, planned, and surveyed out, the engineers step in to discuss and plan around elements like: The road itself and if it's straight or winding, has any hills or elevation changes, and what type of physical condition it's in overall How much pedestrian traffic there is around the road - for instance, speed limits are a lot lower in urban areas like downtown Orlando and around schools because of the increased foot traffic How much housing is around the road and how far back it is from the street As you can see, a lot of careful consideration and planning goes into deciding the speed limit in the end. That's why it's so critical that you abide by them when you're behind the wheel of your Orlando Toyota - they're there for big and important reasons. And just like your car has safety elements built into it like seatbelts, anti-lock brakes, and windshield wipers, speed limits exist to keep you and your passengers safe. You'll find that speed limits tend to be lower in areas that are urban or suburban, as these roads tend to see more housing alongside them and more pedestrian traffic around them. Slower speed limits mean you have more time to come to a quick or sudden stop if you need to. Slower speeds also mean less damage if you do get into an accident or collision. On the other hand, Orlando highways like the 408 tend to see higher speed limits. There's not any housing surrounding a highway and it's rare to see foot traffic. There are also no stop signs or stoplights on highways, so it's easy to maintain a steady speed and thus, a steady flow of traffic. Our Orlando Toyota tips for safe speed In closing, follow the speed limit. It makes you a responsible driver and can even save you money; driving slower means better fuel efficiency and less spare change spent at the pump. Just make sure you're not driving TOO slowly to where you're impeding traffic or making the likelihood of an accident go up. Our recommendation? Go the speed limit and allow yourself a little leeway - driving 5 mph over or under is usually acceptable as long as you're paying close attention to your surroundings. Have more questions about driving safety? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

Have you ever gotten pulled over for going over the speed limit when driving? It happens (to many of us) and can result in a warning if you're lucky and a ticket if you're not. What about under the speed limit - have you ever been pulled over for driving too slowly? Believe it or not, that can actually happen, too. Speed limits are real, backed by both science and law, and are enforced with the threat of tickets, license suspensions, and even jail time. They're also in place to keep both you and other drivers safe when you hit the road. It's important to understand them before you get behind the wheel, and that's where Toyota of Orlando comes in! Toyota of Orlando explains how speed limits come to exist First, let's talk about what speed limits are and how they're determined by the folks in charge. Basically, a speed limit is just what it sounds like - it's a limit to how fast you can drive in that particular area. They're determined by infrastructural engineers and they have to consider quite a few factors before they can decide what the safest speed is for that stretch of road. After the roads are blueprinted, planned, and surveyed out, the engineers step in to discuss and plan around elements like: The road itself and if it's straight or winding, has any hills or elevation changes, and what type of physical condition it's in overall How much pedestrian traffic there is around the road - for instance, speed limits are a lot lower in urban areas like downtown Orlando and around schools because of the increased foot traffic How much housing is around the road and how far back it is from the street As you can see, a lot of careful consideration and planning goes into deciding the speed limit in the end. That's why it's so critical that you abide by them when you're behind the wheel of your Orlando Toyota - they're there for big and important reasons. And just like your car has safety elements built into it like seatbelts, anti-lock brakes, and windshield wipers, speed limits exist to keep you and your passengers safe. You'll find that speed limits tend to be lower in areas that are urban or suburban, as these roads tend to see more housing alongside them and more pedestrian traffic around them. Slower speed limits mean you have more time to come to a quick or sudden stop if you need to. Slower speeds also mean less damage if you do get into an accident or collision. On the other hand, Orlando highways like the 408 tend to see higher speed limits. There's not any housing surrounding a highway and it's rare to see foot traffic. There are also no stop signs or stoplights on highways, so it's easy to maintain a steady speed and thus, a steady flow of traffic. Our Orlando Toyota tips for safe speed In closing, follow the speed limit. It makes you a responsible driver and can even save you money; driving slower means better fuel efficiency and less spare change spent at the pump. Just make sure you're not driving TOO slowly to where you're impeding traffic or making the likelihood of an accident go up. Our recommendation? Go the speed limit and allow yourself a little leeway - driving 5 mph over or under is usually acceptable as long as you're paying close attention to your surroundings. Have more questions about driving safety? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

Are you thinking about hitting the highway for the holidays this year? Not only are road trips a great way to see the country and also spend quality time with loved ones, they're also usually more affordable than traveling by plane (and with the way things currently are, probably easier, too). However, before you hit the road you should have the right ride for the job so you can be as comfortable and safe as possible no matter how far your holiday travels take you. Toyota of Orlando has a great selection of road-trip-ready vehicles and we're breaking down the options to help you find the perfect one for your holiday travels. Toyota Highlander: Is your trip going to be a family one? If so, the Orlando Toyota Highlander is a great option. This spacious new Toyota SUV is decked out with tons of family-friendly features like comfortable captain's chairs in the second row, a power liftgate for loading luggage, an optional Premium Audio system with navigation capabilities, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and three-zone automatic climate control to keep everyone comfortable. On top of that, it's got available all-wheel drive, Safety Connect services, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a Bird's Eye View camera, and five USB charging points so everyone can keep their devices charged up. Toyota Sienna: The new Toyota Sienna is probably the ultimate when it comes to family-friendliness. The interior is spacious and comfortable and boasts seating for up to eight with features like an HD entertainment center with an 11.6" screen, wireless headphones, and HDMI inputs. You'll also find Driver Easy Speak on board, as well as seven USB ports, and power dual sliding doors for easy loading and unloading of passengers and gear. It additionally showcases Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, five LATCH points for car seats, and Safety Connect services. Toyota RAV4: The Orlando Toyota RAV4 is about as versatile as it gets for a holiday road trip. It has seating for five plus plenty of cargo space, but still offers great fuel efficiency and even brings a hybrid option to the table. It also has optional all-wheel drive for traction, all-weather floor mats, navigation, optional multi-terrain select, and even TRD-tuned suspension up for grabs. It's ready for anything this holiday season! Toyota Prius: Trying to stay green this holiday season and also save money on gas? Kill two birds with one stone and take the Toyota Prius on your holiday road trip. This Toyota hatchback is spacious and has plenty of cargo space under the rear hatch, and it gets an incredible 54 mpg in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. It also cuts way down on emissions so your drive time is eco-friendly and green. Plus, it comes packed with incredible technology like Qi wireless charging, integrated navigation, and a color Head-Up Display. Toyota Tundra: Do you want to pull a trailer, boat, or camper behind you when you hit the road this holiday season? The Orlando Toyota Tundr a is a great way to do it. This powerful truck can pull up to 10,100 lbs and also has a roomy interior decked out with technology like navigation, Bluetooth wireless streaming, Ready to start shopping for your next road trip ride? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500 or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

Are you thinking about hitting the highway for the holidays this year? Not only are road trips a great way to see the country and also spend quality time with loved ones, they're also usually more affordable than traveling by plane (and with the way things currently are, probably easier, too). However, before you hit the road you should have the right ride for the job so you can be as comfortable and safe as possible no matter how far your holiday travels take you. Toyota of Orlando has a great selection of road-trip-ready vehicles and we're breaking down the options to help you find the perfect one for your holiday travels. Toyota Highlander: Is your trip going to be a family one? If so, the Orlando Toyota Highlander is a great option. This spacious new Toyota SUV is decked out with tons of family-friendly features like comfortable captain's chairs in the second row, a power liftgate for loading luggage, an optional Premium Audio system with navigation capabilities, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and three-zone automatic climate control to keep everyone comfortable. On top of that, it's got available all-wheel drive, Safety Connect services, Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a Bird's Eye View camera, and five USB charging points so everyone can keep their devices charged up. Toyota Sienna: The new Toyota Sienna is probably the ultimate when it comes to family-friendliness. The interior is spacious and comfortable and boasts seating for up to eight with features like an HD entertainment center with an 11.6" screen, wireless headphones, and HDMI inputs. You'll also find Driver Easy Speak on board, as well as seven USB ports, and power dual sliding doors for easy loading and unloading of passengers and gear. It additionally showcases Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, five LATCH points for car seats, and Safety Connect services. Toyota RAV4: The Orlando Toyota RAV4 is about as versatile as it gets for a holiday road trip. It has seating for five plus plenty of cargo space, but still offers great fuel efficiency and even brings a hybrid option to the table. It also has optional all-wheel drive for traction, all-weather floor mats, navigation, optional multi-terrain select, and even TRD-tuned suspension up for grabs. It's ready for anything this holiday season! Toyota Prius: Trying to stay green this holiday season and also save money on gas? Kill two birds with one stone and take the Toyota Prius on your holiday road trip. This Toyota hatchback is spacious and has plenty of cargo space under the rear hatch, and it gets an incredible 54 mpg in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. It also cuts way down on emissions so your drive time is eco-friendly and green. Plus, it comes packed with incredible technology like Qi wireless charging, integrated navigation, and a color Head-Up Display. Toyota Tundra: Do you want to pull a trailer, boat, or camper behind you when you hit the road this holiday season? The Orlando Toyota Tundr a is a great way to do it. This powerful truck can pull up to 10,100 lbs and also has a roomy interior decked out with technology like navigation, Bluetooth wireless streaming, Ready to start shopping for your next road trip ride? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500 or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

We think it's fair to say that the Toyota 4Runner - a powerhouse SUV that's been on the market since 1984 - is an icon. After all, it's got an almost cult following thanks to its off-roading capabilities (it can pretty much take on anything and everything) and its embodiment of versatility makes it a great option for ALL drivers, not just those who like to take things off the pavement. We're BIG fans of this popular Toyota SUV here at Toyota of Orlando, which is why anytime we hear any rumors about it we get pretty excited. The latest one? That 2023 will bring an all-new redesigned model to the table... and we're not talking just in terms of looks. Check out the details below. What could an all-new Orlando Toyota 4Runner bring to the table? As you know, the current model of the Orlando Toyota 4Runner offers a 4.0 L V6 engine with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing. However, a rumor has been drifting around the internet stating that the 2023 model will offer more than just one engine option. While some drivers love the current configuration, adding a few more options into the mix could increase horsepower, torque, fuel efficiency, and create an even more versatile SUV than already exists. There could even be a turbocharged option in the works for an incredible drive time. There's also a rumor that a hybrid option may be in the works. We all know that Toyota is committed to going green and offering a hybrid model of this popular SUV would be just one more way to do it. A hybrid model could provide better fuel efficiency and more speed, as well as offer a more eco-friendly performance with fewer emissions. We'd be up for it! What about looks? The current iteration of this Orlando Toyota is muscular with defined lines and edgy features. What could a redesigned model offer? Usually, when Toyota introduces a new generation of any model, they'll do a major overhaul in terms of appearance. It stands to reason, then, that the 2023 model could look much, much different. We're thinking that aspects like the back end, front grille, and lighting schemes could see big-time changes and that other accessories may become part of the standard package, like tow kits, roof baskets, and more. And an exterior overhaul would mean that changes would be necessary on the interior, too. We forecast a new selection of interior trim materials and fabrics as well as a more ergonomic space with better distribution. We also think that updated infotainment, safety, efficiency, and convenience features would be added into the already amazing mix for a better overall drive time. Test drive the Toyota 4Runner today at Toyota of Orlando We can't wait to see what 2023 brings and we'll be sure to keep you updated. However, that's a long way away... so why not see what the incredible current model has to offer you? Test drive the 2021 Toyota 4Runner at Toyota of Orlando today and become a member of its devoted fan club. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall. You can also call to schedule an appointment at (407) 298-4500!

We think it's fair to say that the Toyota 4Runner - a powerhouse SUV that's been on the market since 1984 - is an icon. After all, it's got an almost cult following thanks to its off-roading capabilities (it can pretty much take on anything and everything) and its embodiment of versatility makes it a great option for ALL drivers, not just those who like to take things off the pavement. We're BIG fans of this popular Toyota SUV here at Toyota of Orlando, which is why anytime we hear any rumors about it we get pretty excited. The latest one? That 2023 will bring an all-new redesigned model to the table... and we're not talking just in terms of looks. Check out the details below. What could an all-new Orlando Toyota 4Runner bring to the table? As you know, the current model of the Orlando Toyota 4Runner offers a 4.0 L V6 engine with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing. However, a rumor has been drifting around the internet stating that the 2023 model will offer more than just one engine option. While some drivers love the current configuration, adding a few more options into the mix could increase horsepower, torque, fuel efficiency, and create an even more versatile SUV than already exists. There could even be a turbocharged option in the works for an incredible drive time. There's also a rumor that a hybrid option may be in the works. We all know that Toyota is committed to going green and offering a hybrid model of this popular SUV would be just one more way to do it. A hybrid model could provide better fuel efficiency and more speed, as well as offer a more eco-friendly performance with fewer emissions. We'd be up for it! What about looks? The current iteration of this Orlando Toyota is muscular with defined lines and edgy features. What could a redesigned model offer? Usually, when Toyota introduces a new generation of any model, they'll do a major overhaul in terms of appearance. It stands to reason, then, that the 2023 model could look much, much different. We're thinking that aspects like the back end, front grille, and lighting schemes could see big-time changes and that other accessories may become part of the standard package, like tow kits, roof baskets, and more. And an exterior overhaul would mean that changes would be necessary on the interior, too. We forecast a new selection of interior trim materials and fabrics as well as a more ergonomic space with better distribution. We also think that updated infotainment, safety, efficiency, and convenience features would be added into the already amazing mix for a better overall drive time. Test drive the Toyota 4Runner today at Toyota of Orlando We can't wait to see what 2023 brings and we'll be sure to keep you updated. However, that's a long way away... so why not see what the incredible current model has to offer you? Test drive the 2021 Toyota 4Runner at Toyota of Orlando today and become a member of its devoted fan club. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall. You can also call to schedule an appointment at (407) 298-4500!

Even if you use your best defensive driving skills and are exceptionally careful every time you get behind the wheel, accidents can still happen. Whether it's another driver being reckless or bad weather creating dangerous conditions on the road, you may eventually find yourself in the situation where you lose control of your vehicle and find yourself sliding off the road. And if you've ever found yourself stuck in a ditch, you know how frustrating and difficult it can be to get yourself out. Our Orlando Toyota team is here with safe driving tips to help. Safe driving tips: 4 steps to take if you get stuck in a ditch Step #1: Before you do anything, make sure that both you and your passengers are uninjured. If anyone has sustained injuries, it's best to call for help right then and there so professionals can assess their condition before you try to move anyone. Step #2: Turn on your hazards. This will alert other drivers to your whereabouts and also help any emergency vehicles or tow trucks that you may have called find your car. If you're close to the road, call for assistance to get your car out of the ditch quickly so you can avoid an accident or collision with another vehicle passing by. Step #3: If the ditch is dry and your car is simply stuck, you can try lightening the load to free it. Remove anything that's excess weight - passengers, stuff in the backseat and trunk, etc. - and then try to accelerate enough to get out of the ditch. Don't slam on the gas; this can cause you to just spin your wheels and dig yourself into a hole. Instead, gently press the gas to see if the lightened load can make the difference. If you're stuck in mud, water, or snow, the excess weight in your car can actually work in your favor - it can help you gain traction. In this case, simple acceleration probably won't get you out of the ditch. You'll need extra traction, whether it's gravel, kitty litter, flattened cardboard under the tires, or even your floor mats. If your Orlando Toyota is front-wheel drive, put the traction device in front of your front tires. If it's rear-wheel drive, put the traction device behind your rear tires. Step #4: Still stuck? It's time to call in the professionals. Unless you know how to properly use a winch and pull a vehicle out safely, you shouldn't attempt to DIY this one. You can do serious damage to your car's frame (we're talking thousands of dollars worth) or damage your bumpers if you make a mistake. Call a towing service to pull you out of the ditch and consider bringing your car to our Orlando auto service center to have it checked before you take to the open road again. You never know if something was damaged in your accident, and it's best to have the experts take a quick look before you drive again. Get more safe driving tips from Toyota of Orlando today Have questions about safe driving or need assistance after an accident? Toyota of Orlando is here for you. Call us at (407) 298-4500 for more information or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.

Even if you use your best defensive driving skills and are exceptionally careful every time you get behind the wheel, accidents can still happen. Whether it's another driver being reckless or bad weather creating dangerous conditions on the road, you may eventually find yourself in the situation where you lose control of your vehicle and find yourself sliding off the road. And if you've ever found yourself stuck in a ditch, you know how frustrating and difficult it can be to get yourself out. Our Orlando Toyota team is here with safe driving tips to help. Safe driving tips: 4 steps to take if you get stuck in a ditch Step #1: Before you do anything, make sure that both you and your passengers are uninjured. If anyone has sustained injuries, it's best to call for help right then and there so professionals can assess their condition before you try to move anyone. Step #2: Turn on your hazards. This will alert other drivers to your whereabouts and also help any emergency vehicles or tow trucks that you may have called find your car. If you're close to the road, call for assistance to get your car out of the ditch quickly so you can avoid an accident or collision with another vehicle passing by. Step #3: If the ditch is dry and your car is simply stuck, you can try lightening the load to free it. Remove anything that's excess weight - passengers, stuff in the backseat and trunk, etc. - and then try to accelerate enough to get out of the ditch. Don't slam on the gas; this can cause you to just spin your wheels and dig yourself into a hole. Instead, gently press the gas to see if the lightened load can make the difference. If you're stuck in mud, water, or snow, the excess weight in your car can actually work in your favor - it can help you gain traction. In this case, simple acceleration probably won't get you out of the ditch. You'll need extra traction, whether it's gravel, kitty litter, flattened cardboard under the tires, or even your floor mats. If your Orlando Toyota is front-wheel drive, put the traction device in front of your front tires. If it's rear-wheel drive, put the traction device behind your rear tires. Step #4: Still stuck? It's time to call in the professionals. Unless you know how to properly use a winch and pull a vehicle out safely, you shouldn't attempt to DIY this one. You can do serious damage to your car's frame (we're talking thousands of dollars worth) or damage your bumpers if you make a mistake. Call a towing service to pull you out of the ditch and consider bringing your car to our Orlando auto service center to have it checked before you take to the open road again. You never know if something was damaged in your accident, and it's best to have the experts take a quick look before you drive again. Get more safe driving tips from Toyota of Orlando today Have questions about safe driving or need assistance after an accident? Toyota of Orlando is here for you. Call us at (407) 298-4500 for more information or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.

If you're one for finding off-road adventure in your Orlando Toyota, you know just how dirty things can get before you make it back to the pavement. You probably also know that detailing a vehicle after an off-roading expedition is a lot different than detailing a vehicle that you drive on the pavement. There are particular car care steps you should take after returning from an off-road trip and our Orlando auto service specialists are laying them all out for you. Read on! Car care for your off-roading vehicle: What you should know Don't forget - you should never let mud just sit on your vehicle. It's tempting to leave it until you have more free time to detail your vehicle, but letting the mud sit actually makes it more difficult to clean. Try to take care of car care as soon as (or soon after) you arrive back in civilization. Step #1: Pressure wash your vehicle before scrubbing it. Before you get to work with soap and a sponge, pressure wash your vehicle. Not only will this make the mud come off more quickly (especially if it's had time to dry), it'll also ensure that you get rid of any leftover sand particles that might be clinging to the paint. If you try to scrub your vehicle and sand particles are still on it, you can end up with unsightly swirls and scratches in the paint. Step 2: Wash your vehicle with the right type of products. Once you're sand-free, get to work with the soap and sponge... but make sure you're using the right soap. Dish soap can actually do damage to your car's paint so ensure you're using a product formulated for your Orlando Toyota - you can always shop our Toyota parts store or ask our specialists for advice. Step #3: Apply a coat of quality wax. It's always a smart idea to apply wax to your car - it protects the paint from moisture, damaging UV rays, and small scratches. It also makes it that much easier to wash your car the next time around, especially if you're going off-roading and know you're going to have mud on the body. Wash your car, dry it, and then apply wax. You can also ask our parts specialists which one is best for your car. Step #4: Wash the undercarriage. The undercarriage of your vehicle is likely to get the worst of the mud so it's critical that you clean it thoroughly every time you go off-roading. Here's a life hack for you - buy a cheap, rotating sprinkler head and hook it up to your hose. Slide it under your car and turn the water on - you can walk away for 15-20 minutes and let it do a majority of the work for you! Then you can take care of the remainder with the hose a lot more quickly and efficiently. Step #5: Clean the brakes and suspension components. Don't forget to clean your brakes and suspension components so they're free of mud and dust when you return home from your off-road adventure. Dirt and sand can actually damage these parts over time, costing you money in service and repairs and also impairing their functionality. Shop Toyota of Orlando for all of your car care supplies Need to shop for car care supplies? Toyota of Orlando has got you covered. Call us today at (407) 298-0001!

If you're one for finding off-road adventure in your Orlando Toyota, you know just how dirty things can get before you make it back to the pavement. You probably also know that detailing a vehicle after an off-roading expedition is a lot different than detailing a vehicle that you drive on the pavement. There are particular car care steps you should take after returning from an off-road trip and our Orlando auto service specialists are laying them all out for you. Read on! Car care for your off-roading vehicle: What you should know Don't forget - you should never let mud just sit on your vehicle. It's tempting to leave it until you have more free time to detail your vehicle, but letting the mud sit actually makes it more difficult to clean. Try to take care of car care as soon as (or soon after) you arrive back in civilization. Step #1: Pressure wash your vehicle before scrubbing it. Before you get to work with soap and a sponge, pressure wash your vehicle. Not only will this make the mud come off more quickly (especially if it's had time to dry), it'll also ensure that you get rid of any leftover sand particles that might be clinging to the paint. If you try to scrub your vehicle and sand particles are still on it, you can end up with unsightly swirls and scratches in the paint. Step 2: Wash your vehicle with the right type of products. Once you're sand-free, get to work with the soap and sponge... but make sure you're using the right soap. Dish soap can actually do damage to your car's paint so ensure you're using a product formulated for your Orlando Toyota - you can always shop our Toyota parts store or ask our specialists for advice. Step #3: Apply a coat of quality wax. It's always a smart idea to apply wax to your car - it protects the paint from moisture, damaging UV rays, and small scratches. It also makes it that much easier to wash your car the next time around, especially if you're going off-roading and know you're going to have mud on the body. Wash your car, dry it, and then apply wax. You can also ask our parts specialists which one is best for your car. Step #4: Wash the undercarriage. The undercarriage of your vehicle is likely to get the worst of the mud so it's critical that you clean it thoroughly every time you go off-roading. Here's a life hack for you - buy a cheap, rotating sprinkler head and hook it up to your hose. Slide it under your car and turn the water on - you can walk away for 15-20 minutes and let it do a majority of the work for you! Then you can take care of the remainder with the hose a lot more quickly and efficiently. Step #5: Clean the brakes and suspension components. Don't forget to clean your brakes and suspension components so they're free of mud and dust when you return home from your off-road adventure. Dirt and sand can actually damage these parts over time, costing you money in service and repairs and also impairing their functionality. Shop Toyota of Orlando for all of your car care supplies Need to shop for car care supplies? Toyota of Orlando has got you covered. Call us today at (407) 298-0001!