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Do you know how many miles you drive in a day? How about in a year? What about used cars - is there a magic number where the mileage suddenly becomes too high for the car to become a good investment? Mileage is a big part of both buying and owning a car, new or used, and it's important to consider it when you're shopping and planning your commute. Toyota of Orlando is here to help; today we're talking how many miles are TOO many. <span data-mce-type="bookmark" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span> Are you driving your car too much and kicking up the mileage? When it comes to annual driving, 15,000 miles a year is usually the industry standard. However, we know that number will vary from driver to driver - some drivers will be well under while others will be well over. Whatever mileage you're racking up on a yearly basis, you need to keep your car on a routine car care schedule. Even if you're hitting high mileage, regular car maintenance will keep your Orlando Toyota in good shape and keep its performance reliable. Make sure you schedule regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake service, battery service, and tune-ups as needed. What's the mileage limit for buying a used car? When it comes to shopping, how much mileage is too high for you to buy a used car? Here's where it can get a bit tricky because not all mileage is the same. Here's the breakdown: After 100,000 miles, cars tend to need a little bit more TLC in terms of maintenance and repairs. This shouldn't be a deal-breaker, but you should factor it into your car ownership costs to ensure that you're ready to handle the responsibility. Highway miles tend to do less damage on a car, believe it or not. It's because the car is moving at a constant speed during its travels and not stopping and starting for the duration of the drive. If the car is higher mileage but has mostly highway miles on it, it's still a good investment. Different makes retain value differently. Not to toot our own horn (OK we're tooting, we admit it), but some cars just last longer than others. Toyotas are renowned throughout the automotive industry for having major durability and reliability and lasting FOREVER. Seriously - did you see our Instagram post about the million mile Tundra? Its odometer literally hit one million miles and it was STILL RUNNING. You may not want to drive your car for a million miles, but it's nice to know it's got the longevity. Car care counts. Let's say you have two cars. One has 100,000 miles on it, but it's had one or two owners and has consistent service records to prove it's been cared for. The other only has 60,000 miles, but it's had numerous owners and spotty car maintenance. Honestly, the 100,000 mile car may be a better investment because it's been well cared for. Why not come see for yourself? You can shop ALL of our Orlando used cars and check out their mileage online or in person. Visit Toyota of Orlando today at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall, or call us to schedule a test drive at (407) 298-4500

Are you shopping for a new Toyota with your family in mind? Whether you have a large family or just one child, it's essential that you find the perfect new car with the right family elements for your drivetime needs. Driving with kids in the car is a whole different ballgame and our Orlando Toyota dealership wants to ensure that you have the right vehicle and right features to make things as easy, convenient, and stress-free as possible. That's why we've compiled this quick guide to what we think the best family cars have - check it out. The best new Toyotas for families Let's start with a quick breakdown of the new Toyotas on our lot that we think are BEST for families. Toyota Highlander/Toyota Highlander Hybrid: This spacious SUV has seating for up to 8 and has the best of the best when it comes to convenience and safety technology. Toyota Sienna: This Orlando Toyota minivan offers dual sliding doors and a versatile interior that seats up to 8. Toyota 4Runner: This Toyota SUV is spacious inside, offers optional third-row seating, and is also up for anything on or off the road. Toyota RAV4/Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: This Orlando Toyota is compact and fuel-efficient but still spacious enough for a small family and their gear. Toyota Sequoia: If you want luxury for your family, the Toyota Sequoia is a safe and spacious way to go about getting it. And the upcoming 2021 Toyota Venza, which is a hybrid crossover that should arrive at our dealership anytime. Which features best suit your family's needs? Now let's talk about which features, in particular, make new Toyotas family-friendly so you know what to add to your must-have list when you start shopping. A spacious interior (some of our options seat up to 8) that's also versatile - we're talking fold-flat and removable seats, captain's chairs, etc. A large cargo area for all of your family's belongings, and features like tie-down hooks and tonneau covers don't hurt, either The BEST safety technology, including features like Toyota Safety Sense, the Star Safety System, Advanced Airbag Systems, and technology like Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, a blind spot monitor, a backup camera, and Safety Connect Services Convenience technology like power liftgates, dual sliding power doors, automatic climate control with different zones, HomeLink, second-row sunshades, Driver Easy Speak, and multiple USB ports for easy charging Entertainment technology like a Blu-Ray player system with wireless headphones, a JBL sound system, Sirius XM Satellite radio, Bluetooth streaming for music, AppleCar Play, and Android Auto Connectivity technology like hands-free calls, voice recognition, the Head-Up display, steering wheel controls, and a large multi-information display Plus features like easy-clean fabric, seatbelt alerts, power windows with jam protection, Qi-wireless charging for your devices, and heated power front seats. Ready to start shopping for your family's new Toyota? Get started today - call Toyota of Orlando! We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and you can stop by and view all of our new AND used inventory at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

Back to school is just around the corner and while things definitely aren't typical, there are still some students heading back to campus. This means traffic may be a bit heavier during your daily commute and school buses will be out and about once more. Now is the perfect time to brush up on your safe driving skills for back to school driving, specifically for when it comes to school buses. Do you know which safe driving habits to use around school buses? There are specific laws you have to follow when you're driving around a school bus, even when you're not inside of a school zone. Plus, there are certain safe driving practices that you'll want to put into play to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Toyota of Orlando has all the tips you need - read on! Tip #1: Don't follow a school bus too closely. You want to ensure you have plenty of space to bring your car to a stop since school buses make frequent stops to pick up and unload passengers. You should follow the two-second rule - once the bus passes a landmark (like a street sign or tree) you should pass it no sooner than two seconds later. Additionally, when the bus stops you should leave about 10 feet of space in between the front of your car and the back of the bus. That way kids have space to pass between if they need to. Tip #2: Be ready to stop. School buses make frequent stops so you should keep your eyes on the road and be ready to come to a stop at a moment's notice. This means doing away with all distractions and focusing on safe driving and your surroundings. Tip #3: Stay out of their blind spot. Stay out of the driver's blind spot - buses are big and in turn, have big blind spots. If you can't see their mirrors, they can't see you and you should wait to pass. Always pass on the left and never try to pass when the yellow lights are flashing, indicating a stop. Tip #4: Know when you have to stop for the bus. Did you know it's against the law to pass the school bus when it's stopped? If you see the lights flashing, it's about to stop and you should also bring your Orlando Toyota to a stop even if you're not in the same lane as the bus. The only time you don't have to stop is if you're driving in the opposite direction and there's a double line in the middle of the road. If you're driving in the opposite direction and there's a raised barrier OR a paved median at least 5 feet wide in the middle of the road, you still have to stop when the bus stops. Tip #5: Never pass on the right. You shouldn't pass on the right - this is where passengers load and unload. Always pass the bus on the left. Toyota of Orlando has all the safe driving tips you need for back to school Want more safe driving tips for back to school? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500!

If you're in the market for a new truck, you've probably encountered the decision of a gasoline or diesel engine. It can be confusing to decide which is better for your drivetime needs, so our Orlando Toyota dealership is here to break down the main differences and explain both gasoline and diesel engines for you so you can make an educated decision when it comes time to sign the dotted line. Check it out! Gasoline engines vs diesel engines First, let's talk about how things work under the hood. Gasoline engines use spark plugs to create a spark and start an internal combustion process that ignites the fuel to get your car up and running. Diesel engines, on the other hand, use extreme compression to generate enough heat to cause the necessary spark for combustion - these types of engines actually don't even have spark plugs. Diesel engines also have fewer parts in them, which means they're usually a bit more reliable and don't require as many repairs as a gasoline engine, which has a lot of moving parts in it to keep things running. Diesel engines have the capacity to be a bit more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines because of their higher compression rates and different parts. This is good because diesel fuel tends to be more expensive than regular gasoline, and you'll only have one grade to choose from (where if you're pumping gasoline, you'll typically find 3-4 grades to choose from that vary in price). So you may pay a bit more for diesel, but the engine uses it more efficiently than you're used to. If you're worried about how green your drive time won't be when you drive a diesel truck, don't. True, these trucks were traditionally seen as loud and bad for the environment because of all of the emissions they released. However, as technology keeps evolving, they get cleaner and quieter with every passing iteration. They're also a lot lighter in weight than they used to be, which means even better fuel efficiency. You'll also have access to more power when you drive a diesel vehicle. These engines can generate more horsepower and torque than traditional gasoline engines, and they don't have to be huge to do so because of their high compression rates. Which of these engine options is better for you? So how do you decide between the two? Here are some pointers to help guide your decision. If fuel costs concern you, diesel engines may cost a bit more to fill (as diesel fuel can be more expensive) but they're extremely efficient and in the long run, will likely cost less to run. If repair and maintenance costs are a concern, remember that diesel engines tend to be a bit more durable because they have fewer parts that need care. Diesel vehicles are especially efficient on the highway, so if you put a lot of highway miles on your ride this may be the way to go. Gasoline-powered vehicles are usually a bit less expensive than diesel vehicles when you shop. Have questions or want to shop our Orlando Toyota trucks and SUVs? Call us! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

Central Florida got lucky this weekend - the forecasters were predicting a Saturday night and Sunday full of nothing but wet weather. Isaias, however, had other things in mind and decided to skirt the coast, which means we did get some rain but also saw our fair share of sunshine. Even if you did hit the road, the rain wasn't heavy enough to warrant bad driving conditions. What is hydroplaning? However, hurricane season is far from over (we've got until the end of November!) and we do live in Central Florida, which means daily afternoon thunderstorms with downpours, lightning, and wind gusts are pretty much par for the course. And one of the big risks of driving in the rain is hydroplaning, or when your car starts to slide because it can't grip the road anymore due to water. Toyota of Orlando is here to explain hydroplaning and what to do if you find yourself in this hazardous situation. To be more technical, hydroplaning is when your Orlando Toyota loses its traction when you're driving in the rain. Your tire treads displace water so your tires can properly grip the road and get you where you need to go. However, sometimes when you're traveling at higher speeds and there's a lot of water on the road (or it's just freshly rained and the water is mixing with oil on the road), the water actually starts to push your front tires up a bit, off the ground. This causes a thin film of water to form in between the road and your tires and subsequently, you hydroplane, and your car starts to slide because it can no longer grip the road. How to deal if you hydroplane while driving in the rain So how should you react if you find yourself in this dangerous situation while driving in the rain? Here are some tips from our Orlando Toyota experts: Avoid the urge to slam on the brakes (because that will be your natural reaction). Instead, take your foot off the gas pedal to let your car slow on its own. If you're still moving fast with no slowing in sight, you can gently push on the brakes (if you have anti-lock brakes - otherwise, you'll want to slowly pump the brakes to avoid them locking up and you spinning out more). Turn your steering wheel in the direction of your slide. It seems weird, we know, but turning it in the opposite direction can actually cause overcorrection and cause you to spin. Steer into the slide (the direction that your back wheels are going) with small adjustments - don't jerk the wheel. And take a moment to collect yourself when you've finally come to a stop. Hydroplaning can be extremely scary and nerve-wracking and you should give yourself a change to calm down before you hit the road again. And don't forget, an easy way to avoid hydroplaning while driving in the rain is to keep your tires in great shape. Schedule service at our Orlando Toyota auto service center today! Call us at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

If versatility is the name of your game when it comes to your drive time, then you should definitely consider the Orlando Toyota 4Runner next time you're ready to shop. This rugged but comfortable SUV is ready for anything - whether you're getting around town or out of town, you'll be able to do it in style with the latest technology and safety features. The 2021 model was just officially revealed, and Toyota of Orlando has the details on what you can expect when you get behind the wheel. What can you expect on the latest model of the Toyota 4Runner? First, let's talk the base model. If you're going to shop the Orlando Toyota 4Runner in 2021, you can expect the same incredible performance capabilities, body-on-frame construction, comfortable and spacious interior, and top technology for both safety and entertainment. Additionally, new LED lighting schemes will be standard on all models, including LED fog lights for an edgy look. Next, let's take a look at the upcoming 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro model. It's got several enhancements on deck, including: A new paint color called Lunar Rock (it's replacing Army Green) New black alloy TRD flow form wheels and Nitto Terra Grappler tires that are more rigid and stronger than ever before. The wheels also showcase a deeper dish and more aggressive design. Flow form design of the wheel that allows for better handling and performance and re-tuned 2.5" Fox Internal Bypass Shocks New TRD-tuned coil springs on the front shocks for an inch of lift (which means you can tackle off-road terrain more efficiently) and piggyback-style remote reservoirs for enhanced damping Introducing the all-new Trail Edition And finally, the 2021 Trail Special Edition. This is a brand-new model never featured before in the lineup and we can't wait for it to arrive at Toyota of Orlando. Here's what it will feature when it does: Both 2WD and 4WD options (the trim is based on the SR5 model) Dark gray TRD off-road wheels Paint hues like Army Green, Midnight Black, Cement, and Super White Black exterior badging An interior decked out in black seating with tan stitching accents All-weather floormats A Yakima LoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket A sliding cargo tray and custom 40 quart cooler. This cooler boasts a freezer-grade gasket that ensures an air-tight seal and will keep ice frozen for up to seven days, as well as a flat top that allows it to also serve as a seat or a table. It also has tie-down straps and special brackets located in the sliding cargo deck to keep it secure when you hit the road. The model was designed with those who love the outdoors in mind - it truly is ready for anything whether you want to spend your weekend camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, or just exploring off the beaten path. We can't wait for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner to arrive at Toyota of Orlando and we'll be sure to keep you posted about its ETA. In the interim, come check out the current models on the lot and take a test drive! We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500.

Car shopping can be stressful, we know - after all, a car is a big investment so you want to be confident in your final decision. The best way to do this? Educate yourself so you feel confident before you even walk in the doors of our Orlando Toyota dealership. Today we're talking about some of the most common words you'll hear when car shopping - read them over before you start the process so you feel ready to roll the minute you arrive. 8 car shopping terms you should know Term #1: Blue book value This is basically what your car is worth. Kelley Blue Book is a tool used across the industry to give you an initial appraisal of your vehicle so you can get an idea of what it's worth before you trade it in or sell it. It's been in use since 1926, so it's pretty well-respected in the automotive world. Term #2: Down payment A down payment is the money that you're going to put down on a car when you lease or sell it. It helps offset the amount that you're going to finance, and you can usually decide how much you're going to put down. Term #3: Finance Not many people can buy a car outright with cash; most drivers finance new and used cars, which means they put down a down payment and then pay the rest on a monthly basis for a certain amount of months. Term #4: Extended warranty An extended warranty is just what it sounds like -  you can purchase a warranty that stretches past the standard warranty to cover repairs and service. This is entirely up to you as the buyer, so ask our Orlando Toyota specialists what your options are if you're interested in this type of coverage. Term #5: Term The term is how long you're going to finance or lease your new Orlando Toyota. For example, you may lease a new car for a term of 36 months and then it's time to trade in and trade up or purchase the vehicle to keep it for good. Term #6: Trade-in When you trade in your car, you sell it back to the dealership. You can either use this money toward a new vehicle there, or take the money and walk away with it. Term #7: Trim-level OK, stick with us on this one. Basically, cars are broken out into make (Toyota, Nissan, Honda, etc.) and model (Camry, Sentra, Ridgeline, etc.). But from there, each model is broken out into a trim-level. For example, the 2020 Toyota Corolla is available in 8 trim-levels - the L, LE, Hybrid LE, SE CTV, SE manual, SE Nightshade Edition, XLE, and XSE. Term #8: Window sticker A window sticker is just that - it's a sticker located on one of the vehicle's windows that helps give you quick info on the car. If you're car shopping at Toyota of Orlando and walking our lot, these stickers will give you quick facts regarding things like MSRP, fuel efficiency, make/model/trim-level/year, features, and more. Start your car shopping today at Toyota of Orlando! Have more questions or want to get car shopping? Call us! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

We know a lot of drivers take immense pride in their cars. They spend hours detailing, washing, and waxing to keep their vehicles looking brand new. However, normal day-to-day wear and tear can take a toll on your vehicle no matter how many times you wax it. That's where the option of ceramic coating comes into play, and Toyota of Orlando is here to explain this unique product and the benefits it can offer your car. But what is ceramic coating for cars, exactly? Check out this information straight from our Toyota Certified Collision Center. What is ceramic coating for cars? What is ceramic coating for cars? Basically, it's sort of like a prime version of car wax. Basically, it's a liquid polymer that's applied to your car like a coat of wax - our techs apply it by hand for even results. It then chemically bonds with the factory paint on your car and gives it an additional layer of protection. However, unlike wax, car ceramic coating can't be removed by washing - it's there to stay, which means you won't have to reapply it every few months. It's a permanent or semi-permanent bond, so it doesn't break down easily and will stick around a lot longer than even a high-quality wax. What types of ceramic coating are available to you? There are basically two types of ceramic coating available for your Orlando Toyota - DIY and professional. You can go either route, but buyer beware - you get what you pay for. Here are some things to keep in mind: Professional-grade ceramic coating is thick and almost super-glue-like. They require multiple steps to cure them properly and form that protective coat. Consumer-grade ceramic coating (DIY products) doesn't require as much of a process to apply and is cheaper. These products are usually single-application products. They don't cure as hard as professional-grade products, which can result in less of a shine and less durability. Consumer-grade ceramic coating typically comes in two forms: sprayable, and sprayable nano-polymer. The nano-polymer spray is polymer based (instead of SI02 based) and offers enhanced protection and shine. When you DIY your ceramic coating, you run the risk of imperfections. It requires a lot of prep work to get the car ready for ceramic coating including washing, clay bar, and waxing. If you skip these steps or aren't thorough enough with them, it can result in sealing in paint imperfections or dulling the shine of your car's paint (like, forever). Professional ceramic coating places usually require the installer to be professionally trained and have access to the proper type of facility for the job, as well as have insurance and the right tools, like infrared curing lamps. There are also different areas where ceramic coating can be applied to your Orlando Toyota. You can apply it to protect your car's paint (the most common use), as well as the glass, wheels, and trim. How long does it take to ceramic coat a car? How long does it take to ceramic coat a car? That circles back around to whether you choose professional-grade products or try to DIY the job yourself. Professional-grade ceramic coating requires multiple steps and lots of curing. That means they can take 3-4 days to complete for the best outcome. Consumer-grade ceramic coating is a simpler process and thus, takes less time. Typically, you can get it done in 1-2 days. How much is it to ceramic coat a car? Next big question - how much is it to ceramic coat a car? Obviously, it's going to be cheaper to DIY it as you're not paying for labor, and you're paying for a cheaper product. Professional-grade ceramic coating can range anywhere from $1,000 and up. This type of ceramic coating typically lasts from 5-10 years. Consumer-grade ceramic coating can range anywhere from $150 and up. This type of ceramic coating typically lasts from 1-3 years. Costs will vary depending on which type you're getting, where you're applying it, where you live, and the type of car you drive. Long story short, your best bet is to call Toyota of Orlando for more information. What's the benefit of car ceramic coating? There are two main benefits to putting a car ceramic coating on your car paint. First, it's easier to clean. It's hydrophobic and repels water, so water can bead up and slide off a lot more easily than if you just had your paint or even a coat of wax. This means mud and dirty water won't be able to stick to your car as easy and even if they do, they'll be a lot easier to rinse off. You won't have to scrub as hard when detailing your car, nor will you have to apply another coat of ceramic coating every few months like you would with car wax. The other main benefit of using a car ceramic coating for vehicles is the protection it affords your Orlando Toyota. As mentioned, it repels moisture (so buh-bye, rust) and is more durable and longer-lasting than wax. It offers an additional layer of protection between the world and your car's paint, which means it keeps things like UV rays and oxidization (and subsequent paint fading), chemical staining and etching (we're looking at you, lovebugs), and even some small chips and scratches. Another side benefit? Ceramic coating for vehicles keeps your car nice and glossy, so you'll always have that fresh-off-the-lot shine going on. However, don't be fooled - using this product won't prevent your car from getting scratches and paint chips altogether and it certainly doesn't mean you can stop washing your car. Schedule ceramic coating for cars at Toyota of Orlando today Have questions or need to schedule an appointment to get ceramic coating for vehicles? Call us today - we're open and waiting at (407) 298-6006! You can also stop by Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

Are you considering buying a used car? If you want peace of mind, then it's critical that you know how to approach the shopping process. This includes taking a test drive, requesting a CarFax report and vehicle maintenance records, and actually going to see the car in person so you can do a walkaround inspection and take a close look at the interior, exterior, and under the hood. After all, this is one of the best ways to spot any issues that you might otherwise not know about... like flood damage. When a used car is flooded, it can do serious damage to almost every element. You can have rust on unpainted metal surfaces, a moldy or mildewy interior, and damage to your electronics. However, some of the worst damage won't be visible to the naked eye because it'll be under the hood inside the engine and its components. Flooding can damage your engine, transmission, exhaust system, ignition, hoses and belts, and more. An easy way to find out about flood damage is to check the CarFax report - some states require that this is reported and that the car is marked as "flooded" or salvaged. However, not all states require this designation. That's why it's critical to know how to spot flood damage from the get-go, so you don't have to deal with costly repairs down the road in your ownership. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you pinpoint this particular type of damage while you do your walkaround inspection - check out our checklist below! 5 signs a used car has suffered flood damage Sign #1: Rust on unpainted metal. Any unpainted metal that's exposed to moisture has a chance of rusting, and this is especially true when a car is submerged. You should check the unpainted metal in places like under the seats, under the pedals, under the hood, the door handles, and the trunk. If you spot rust, it's likely that either the car was in a flood OR it hasn't been maintained well - either way, it's a no-go. Sign #2: An interior that smells moldy or musty. If the interior of the car smells musty or moldy OR has been doused with air freshener, it's a sign of flooding. Water will make the carpet and upholstery stink and typically a buyer who wants to hide a particular smell will overuse the air freshener. Sign #3: Brand-new or mismatched carpet and upholstery. Does the carpet match the interior of the car? What about the upholstery? Mismatched carpet or upholstery means it was replaced, which could mean this used car was flooded. Additionally, if the car is older and the carper or upholstery looks a lot newer, there's a chance it was replaced due to flood damage. Sign #4: Fogging or moisture in the headlights, instrument panel, or taillights. Take a look at the lights and the instrument panel of the car. If you see fogging inside of them or water droplets, the car has been in a flood and likely has other damage. Sign #5: Mud or silt inside the trunk lid or in the engine block. If you spot mud or silt still inside of the engine or inside the trunk lid, you can bet this used car has suffered flood damage. Shop all of our Orlando used cars today Want to get shopping a selection of reliable used cars with great warranties? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-4500 OR shop in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

We've all seen it - the inconsiderate person who parks across two spots, the person who dings your car and leaves without giving you their contact information, the person who holds up traffic in the car parking lot because they have to back into their spot no matter how many people are behind them. Some drivers just aren't good at car parking, but you don't have to be one of them. Check out our Orlando Toyota tips for becoming a better parker! 5 tips to help you park your car more efficiently Tip #1: Park in one spot. There's nothing worse than trying to pull into a car parking spot only to realize someone has parked over the lines of their spot and effectively taken up TWO parking spots. When you pull into your parking spot, be sure that you're centered evenly between the lines on the left and right. You want enough space on both sides of the vehicle to enter and exit the car. Not only is this being considerate of other drivers, but it can also prevent damage to your car from people opening their car doors and dinging your vehicle. Tip #2: If the parking lot is busy, avoid fancy maneuvers. If there are a ton of cars in the parking lot and a line of drivers behind you, pull forward into your spot of choice. Sure, it can be fun to back into your spot but if you're not practiced at it,  it requires extra maneuvers that take time to execute. This makes traffic worse and is inconsiderate of the other drivers in the car parking lot. Tip #3: Use your turn signal. You should always use your turn signal in car parking lots, especially to indicate that you're about to turn into a spot. This can prevent the driver behind you from rear-ending your car, and it also lets other drivers know of your intentions (and if they're good drivers like you, they won't try to sneak in and take the spot you want). Tip #4: Park near the back of the lot. OK, hear us out. We know it's farther to walk (you're welcome for the extra cardio, though), but parking at the back of the lot has its benefits. In addition to logging extra steps, fewer drivers choose to park in the back. Most people are fighting for the closest spot they can get, so the spots in the back are relatively empty and you're less likely to have someone ding or damage your car. Tip #5: Be considerate of other people's property. Accidents happen, we get it. The wind catches your door and before you know it, it's dinged the car next to you. It's tempting to just drive off, but be a good human and leave a note on their windshield with your contact information so you can fix the damage. Call Toyota of Orlando with questions today! Have questions or want to test drive any of our Orlando Toyotas? Call us - we're open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. You can also stop by our  dealership at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall!

At a loss as to what you should do this weekend? We've got a suggestion - why not get to that DIY car care you've been meaning to do but keep putting off because you're too busy? At-home car maintenance doesn't have to take a lot of time or money to complete, and it can get your car running, looking, and even smelling like new again. Check these easy items off of your to-do list and make the most of your weekend at home! Get to work on this easy DIY car care list 1. Check your tire pressure When was the last time you made sure your tires were inflated to the right level? Check the PSI with a tire gauge - the number should match the number on the panel inside the driver's side door (or the number listed in your owner's manual). If it's low, head to the gas station to reinflate your tires to the right level. Proper inflation means better traction, better fuel efficiency, and tires that last longer! 2. Apply a good coat of wax Wax is essential to protecting your car's paint, especially here in Orlando where we get intense sun, lots of rain, and right now, lovebugs (gross). Wash your car, dry it, and then apply a good coat of car wax to protect it from the elements. This will keep your paint looking shiny and new as well as protect it from moisture (which we know can lead to rust). Our Orlando Toyota parts store can help you find the right wax for your car. 3. Get the interior smelling fresh and clean again An easy DIY car care item to check off your list is to vacuum out your car, wipe the dust, and then stick dryer sheets under seats. They'll make it smell like fresh laundry and cost a lot less than expensive air fresheners. You'll love sliding into the driver's seat even more when your car smells clean. 4. Inspect the battery Take a look under the hood at your car's battery - is there corrosion around the terminals? If so, take a stiff brush and a baking soda/water paste and get scrubbing. This combination will have them clean again in no time; just make sure you rinse thoroughly. Get your Orlando Toyota looking like-new again 5. Clean the windows Whether you have kids, pets, or it's just you in the car, you're sure to have smears and marks all over your windows and windshield over time. Clean them up, but be sure to use a cleaner formulated for car windows so you don't damage your tint. Our Orlando Toyota car care experts can help you find the right one. 6. Touch up damaged paint Have some scratches or chips in your paint due to wear and tear? If they're shallow and small, you can make fixing them part of your DIY car care. Head over to Toyota of Orlando for a paint pen (we'll match your paint exactly) and get to work getting your car back in like-new condition. Have questions or need supplies? Come visit Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road - we're just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

With both the Toyota 86 and the new Toyota GR Supra sitting on the lot at Toyota of Orlando, we know it can be tempting for our customers to sign the dotted line on a new sports car. However, owning and driving a sports car is a bit different than driving a traditional car, truck, or SUV. We're here to talk about four things you should take into consideration BEFORE you buy a sports car so you find the perfect one for all of your drive time needs. Ask yourself these questions BEFORE buying a new ride 1. Are you going classic or modern? There are tons of sports car options on the market even besides our Orlando Toyota models. However, before you plunk your down payment on the table, you should decide if you want to go modern or classic. If you choose the modern route, we can certainly help you shop and you'll get everything that comes with a new car purchase - warranties, complimentary routine maintenance, and peace of mind. If you decide to buy a classic sports car, however, your search will likely take place online to find a vintage ride and you may have to work restoration or repair costs into your budget. This also includes either doing the work yourself OR finding a trusted mechanic. Do thorough research before you decide which is best for you! 2. Which one suits your everyday drive time needs? When choosing a sports car, you want one that's suitable for your day-to-day drive time needs (unless this is just going to be a weekend car). What kind of lifestyle do you have? Do you need something that has a backseat and trunk large enough for passengers or a big grocery shopping day? What about weather - do you live in a snowy area where your car might not be able to handle harsh winter weather on a daily basis? Figure out what you need from your car before you choose an Orlando Toyota so you're not stuck in a rut. 3. Front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive? Front-wheel-drive and rear-wheel-drive cars handle very differently. If you choose rear-wheel-drive (which is what most sports cars employ), then you may find you have to slightly adjust your driving habits. Rear-wheel-drive cars have crisper steering and better acceleration, so you might have to learn not to oversteer or hit the gas pedal too hard for a bit before you're used to this drive type. 4. What about insurance? It can be more costly to insure yourself if you drive this type of new Toyota, so make sure you budget accordingly. It's smart to call around and find multiple options so you can get the premium you want before you buy - that way you're not taken by surprise when you actually get the car home from Toyota of Orlando. Toyota of Orlando can help you find the perfect sporty ride Want more tips or want to shop our sports car inventory? We've got you covered - either 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!