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Dealing with a cracked windshield

How to deal with a cracked windshield

It's happened to so many of us - you're cruising down the highway, enjoying the lack of traffic and the fact that you may just make it to work on time when something flies up and hits your windshield. You may not even see it - you just hear a sharp popping noise and suddenly, you're staring at a crack in the windshield. While it may not be an emergency that you have to pull over and deal with that very second, it is an issue that needs to be fixed so it doesn't lead to bigger problems down the road. Toyota of Orlando's body shop is here to explain the ins and outs of cracked windshields and what to do about them. The ins and outs of a cracked windshield It's tempting to just ignore a cracked windshield, especially if the crack or chip is small and isn't right in the middle of your field of vision. Who has time to bring their car into a body shop for repairs and who wants to pay for them if the damage isn't large or noticeable? This is a bad idea. First of all, it's illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in the state of Florida. If a police officer pulls you over, you can be ticketed. If the damage is bad enough, your car can even be towed - all of this is explained in statute 316.610, where it states that it's illegal to operate a vehicle that's unsafe or a danger to other drivers. You'll save yourself time, money, and stress if you just deal with the crack yourself and get it fixed. Another reason you should never ignore a cracked windshield is that no matter how small the crack, it's still a crack. And that means that it's affecting your windshield's structural integrity. The chances of the crack or chip growing larger are high and then it becomes very dangerous for you to get behind the wheel. It's best to contact your local Orlando body shop and deal with the issue while it's still small and more manageable. Here's the good news - because there's a statute deeming it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield, there's also a Florida statute stating that auto insurance companies must repair or replace a cracked windshield with zero deductible... in other words, for FREE. Let our body shop help you get back out on the road So what should you do? Our Orlando Toyota body shop recommends that the moment you see a crack appear in your windshield, you call your insurance company and report the claim. You can work with them to schedule a time and place to have your windshield either repaired or replaced, depending on the severity and size of the crack. They can even send someone out to do it while you're at work! It's that simple and remember - it's 100% free through your auto insurance. If you have questions, call our body shop today! Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall, and you can reach us at (407) 298-6006.

Dealing with a cracked windshield

How to deal with a cracked windshield

It's happened to so many of us - you're cruising down the highway, enjoying the lack of traffic and the fact that you may just make it to work on time when something flies up and hits your windshield. You may not even see it - you just hear a sharp popping noise and suddenly, you're staring at a crack in the windshield. While it may not be an emergency that you have to pull over and deal with that very second, it is an issue that needs to be fixed so it doesn't lead to bigger problems down the road. Toyota of Orlando's body shop is here to explain the ins and outs of cracked windshields and what to do about them. The ins and outs of a cracked windshield It's tempting to just ignore a cracked windshield, especially if the crack or chip is small and isn't right in the middle of your field of vision. Who has time to bring their car into a body shop for repairs and who wants to pay for them if the damage isn't large or noticeable? This is a bad idea. First of all, it's illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in the state of Florida. If a police officer pulls you over, you can be ticketed. If the damage is bad enough, your car can even be towed - all of this is explained in statute 316.610, where it states that it's illegal to operate a vehicle that's unsafe or a danger to other drivers. You'll save yourself time, money, and stress if you just deal with the crack yourself and get it fixed. Another reason you should never ignore a cracked windshield is that no matter how small the crack, it's still a crack. And that means that it's affecting your windshield's structural integrity. The chances of the crack or chip growing larger are high and then it becomes very dangerous for you to get behind the wheel. It's best to contact your local Orlando body shop and deal with the issue while it's still small and more manageable. Here's the good news - because there's a statute deeming it illegal to drive with a cracked windshield, there's also a Florida statute stating that auto insurance companies must repair or replace a cracked windshield with zero deductible... in other words, for FREE. Let our body shop help you get back out on the road So what should you do? Our Orlando Toyota body shop recommends that the moment you see a crack appear in your windshield, you call your insurance company and report the claim. You can work with them to schedule a time and place to have your windshield either repaired or replaced, depending on the severity and size of the crack. They can even send someone out to do it while you're at work! It's that simple and remember - it's 100% free through your auto insurance. If you have questions, call our body shop today! Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall, and you can reach us at (407) 298-6006.

Orlando car service

How does cold weather affect your car? Tips from our auto service techs.

Are you headed into the great white north for the holidays? Many people hit the road to reach their holiday destination and if you're driving out of Florida, you could hit some serious winter weather on your journey. It's important to know how cold weather can affect your car so you're prepared when you actually reach it, and our Orlando auto service experts are here with the knowledge you should have before you hit the road. Tires: Cold weather can make your tire pressure drop - when air gets colder, it gets denser. Low tire pressure may not seem like such a big deal but over time, the effects can add up. It can decrease your fuel efficiency and increase the wear and tear on your tires, as more of the tires' surface is touching the road. It also increases your chances of a tire blow out. When the temps drop, check your tire pressure and reinflate to the right PSI level (you can find it in your owner's manual). Battery: Cold weather can take a toll on your car's battery and reduce its starting capability if the battery is already not in the greatest shape. Being stuck with a dead car in winter weather can be a big problem, so have your battery inspected by one of our Orlando auto service techs before you leave for your road trip. Corrosion: Snowy and icy roads get treated with salt, which means that salt can get flung up onto your car as you drive. If left there, the salt can actually corrode the underside of your vehicle and your brakes as well as damage the paint. Make sure you hose your car down as often as you can to rinse away the salt and avoid costly corrosion damage. Fluids: Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken, which is why it's important to check with one of our Toyota of Orlando auto service techs regarding your car's fluids before you hit the road. These fluids are pumped throughout the engine to keep things running and if they're too thick to function, you're in for a big issue when you hit the highway. Our auto service techs can check and refill your fluids, as well as ensure you have the right ones for cold weather travels. Leaks: If you're traveling to an area where the temperature fluctuates a lot with severe cold bouts, then you may run into leaks. Have our techs give your engine a once over to ensure all of the seals are in top condition before you take on traveling. Feel like your car needs a little TLC before heading into the cold? Schedule winter auto service at Toyota of Orlando today - we're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road. Call to schedule at (407) 298-4500!

Orlando car service

How does cold weather affect your car? Tips from our auto service techs.

Are you headed into the great white north for the holidays? Many people hit the road to reach their holiday destination and if you're driving out of Florida, you could hit some serious winter weather on your journey. It's important to know how cold weather can affect your car so you're prepared when you actually reach it, and our Orlando auto service experts are here with the knowledge you should have before you hit the road. Tires: Cold weather can make your tire pressure drop - when air gets colder, it gets denser. Low tire pressure may not seem like such a big deal but over time, the effects can add up. It can decrease your fuel efficiency and increase the wear and tear on your tires, as more of the tires' surface is touching the road. It also increases your chances of a tire blow out. When the temps drop, check your tire pressure and reinflate to the right PSI level (you can find it in your owner's manual). Battery: Cold weather can take a toll on your car's battery and reduce its starting capability if the battery is already not in the greatest shape. Being stuck with a dead car in winter weather can be a big problem, so have your battery inspected by one of our Orlando auto service techs before you leave for your road trip. Corrosion: Snowy and icy roads get treated with salt, which means that salt can get flung up onto your car as you drive. If left there, the salt can actually corrode the underside of your vehicle and your brakes as well as damage the paint. Make sure you hose your car down as often as you can to rinse away the salt and avoid costly corrosion damage. Fluids: Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken, which is why it's important to check with one of our Toyota of Orlando auto service techs regarding your car's fluids before you hit the road. These fluids are pumped throughout the engine to keep things running and if they're too thick to function, you're in for a big issue when you hit the highway. Our auto service techs can check and refill your fluids, as well as ensure you have the right ones for cold weather travels. Leaks: If you're traveling to an area where the temperature fluctuates a lot with severe cold bouts, then you may run into leaks. Have our techs give your engine a once over to ensure all of the seals are in top condition before you take on traveling. Feel like your car needs a little TLC before heading into the cold? Schedule winter auto service at Toyota of Orlando today - we're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road. Call to schedule at (407) 298-4500!

Orlando oil changes

Is your car using too much oil in between auto services?

Oil is an essential part of your car's performance. When the oil level gets too low or the oil gets too dirty to perform properly, you run the risk of doing serious permanent damage to your car's engine. That's why it's so important to schedule routine Orlando oil changes for your ride but also to check the oil in between oil changes - you need to be aware of what's going on under the hood and if your car is using too much oil, or if the oil is getting too dirty too fast. Toyota of Orlando is here to help! Why is your car using too much oil? If your car is using too much oil in between oil changes, then chances are you have a problem within the system or engine. Oil consumption should be steady and you should be able to base your oil changes on mileage or calendar time (whichever our auto service techs deem best for your car). If your ride is using too much oil, you'll find that you're having to add oil to the system in between oil changes, maybe as often as every 600 miles. This is out of the ordinary - typically,  you should only have to change the oil every few thousand miles (depending on the type of motor oil you're using) and not add any in between. Why does your car use too much oil? Here are some of the reasons you may run into this auto service issue: You're using low-quality oil. This can reduce lubrication, increase heat, and cause you to run through oil more quickly. A cylinder piston is worn out. These regulate oil pressure and consumption in your vehicle so if they wear out, you'll likely use more oil than your car actually needs. Your valve stem seals are bad. You'll probably see a cloud of blue-black smoke behind your car in this case because the bad seal allows oil to leak into the combustion chamber of your car. You have an oil leak somewhere in the system. If you see oil under the car, this is a dead giveaway you have a leak. Your oil rings are sticking. This can also allow gasoline to leak into your oil, so you'll notice that odor. You have crankcase ventilation system defects. This can cause issues with the pressure inside your engine and subsequently, oil leaks. Use Toyota of Orlando for oil changes, auto repairs, and more Here's the good news - this issue isn't a common one and typically tends to occur in high mileage cars that have passed the 100K mark. And here's some more good news - Toyota of Orlando offers affordable auto repairs for your oil issues with our trained Toyota technicians! You can schedule your appointment today; our auto service center is open seven days a week whether you need repairs to your oil system or just a simple oil change. Call (407) 298-0001 to schedule or swing by and see us. We're centrally located in the heart of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

Orlando oil changes

Is your car using too much oil in between auto services?

Oil is an essential part of your car's performance. When the oil level gets too low or the oil gets too dirty to perform properly, you run the risk of doing serious permanent damage to your car's engine. That's why it's so important to schedule routine Orlando oil changes for your ride but also to check the oil in between oil changes - you need to be aware of what's going on under the hood and if your car is using too much oil, or if the oil is getting too dirty too fast. Toyota of Orlando is here to help! Why is your car using too much oil? If your car is using too much oil in between oil changes, then chances are you have a problem within the system or engine. Oil consumption should be steady and you should be able to base your oil changes on mileage or calendar time (whichever our auto service techs deem best for your car). If your ride is using too much oil, you'll find that you're having to add oil to the system in between oil changes, maybe as often as every 600 miles. This is out of the ordinary - typically,  you should only have to change the oil every few thousand miles (depending on the type of motor oil you're using) and not add any in between. Why does your car use too much oil? Here are some of the reasons you may run into this auto service issue: You're using low-quality oil. This can reduce lubrication, increase heat, and cause you to run through oil more quickly. A cylinder piston is worn out. These regulate oil pressure and consumption in your vehicle so if they wear out, you'll likely use more oil than your car actually needs. Your valve stem seals are bad. You'll probably see a cloud of blue-black smoke behind your car in this case because the bad seal allows oil to leak into the combustion chamber of your car. You have an oil leak somewhere in the system. If you see oil under the car, this is a dead giveaway you have a leak. Your oil rings are sticking. This can also allow gasoline to leak into your oil, so you'll notice that odor. You have crankcase ventilation system defects. This can cause issues with the pressure inside your engine and subsequently, oil leaks. Use Toyota of Orlando for oil changes, auto repairs, and more Here's the good news - this issue isn't a common one and typically tends to occur in high mileage cars that have passed the 100K mark. And here's some more good news - Toyota of Orlando offers affordable auto repairs for your oil issues with our trained Toyota technicians! You can schedule your appointment today; our auto service center is open seven days a week whether you need repairs to your oil system or just a simple oil change. Call (407) 298-0001 to schedule or swing by and see us. We're centrally located in the heart of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

auto service tips

Toyota of Orlando car care tips: How to deodorize your car

You unlock the door, slide into the driver's seat, and there it is - an unmistakable odor in your vehicle before you even turn the key. Whether the smell is from having animals in the car, cigarette smoke, or mildew, it can make your drive time extremely unpleasant. Toyota of Orlando is here to help - our car care techs have tips on how to deodorize your ride without breaking the bank and get things smelling fresh and clean again. How can you get your car smelling fresh and clean again? #1: Clean out your car - everywhere. There's a chance that the smell is coming from trash in the backseat, something unpleasant in the trunk, or a surprise that slid under one of your car's seats. Remove everything from your vehicle to try and locate the source of the smell, including seat covers and floor mats. Vacuum the car out and wipe down all surfaces and then check to see if the smell remains. #2: Clean any stains in the carpet or upholstery. Are their obvious stains in the carpet or upholstery that could be causing the smell? Our Orlando car care experts recommend scrubbing them ASAP to see if that improves the situation. Using a pet deodorizing cleaner can work wonders on tough stains and smells. #3: Check the cabin air filter. When was the last time you changed your cabin air filter? The smell could be coming from dirt and debris trapped in it, so swap it out (or come to Toyota of Orlando to have our car care techs swap it out for you). #4: Spray A/C cleaner into the A/C vents. Your air conditioning system can collect dirt, debris, or even mildew that can cause a nasty smell inside the cabin of your car. Try spraying the vents with the appropriate A/C cleaner (our Toyota parts store can help you find and purchase the right one for your ride). #5: Try treating your car with white vinegar. If you still smell an odor when you climb into the driver's seat, it's time to try vinegar. Use equal parts white vinegar and water and spritz the interior of your car. Let the solution sit for a while and then scrub the seats and carper - it should help improve the smell. #6: Put dryer sheets or coffee beans under the seat. It may also help to use odor-absorbing measures in your car. Try putting a stack of dryer sheets or an open (but secured) can of coffee beans under the seats. This can help absorb some of the odor in the car. #7: Schedule professional car detailing. If you've tried what feels like everything but the odor persists, then it's time to consider professional detailing to get rid of the smell. Toyota of Orlando can help - just set an appointment with our car care experts and let us get your car smelling like-new again. Let Toyota of Orlando help you get rid of unwanted odors today Want to schedule professional car detailing at Toyota of Orlando? Call us today - our car care center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

auto service tips

Toyota of Orlando car care tips: How to deodorize your car

You unlock the door, slide into the driver's seat, and there it is - an unmistakable odor in your vehicle before you even turn the key. Whether the smell is from having animals in the car, cigarette smoke, or mildew, it can make your drive time extremely unpleasant. Toyota of Orlando is here to help - our car care techs have tips on how to deodorize your ride without breaking the bank and get things smelling fresh and clean again. How can you get your car smelling fresh and clean again? #1: Clean out your car - everywhere. There's a chance that the smell is coming from trash in the backseat, something unpleasant in the trunk, or a surprise that slid under one of your car's seats. Remove everything from your vehicle to try and locate the source of the smell, including seat covers and floor mats. Vacuum the car out and wipe down all surfaces and then check to see if the smell remains. #2: Clean any stains in the carpet or upholstery. Are their obvious stains in the carpet or upholstery that could be causing the smell? Our Orlando car care experts recommend scrubbing them ASAP to see if that improves the situation. Using a pet deodorizing cleaner can work wonders on tough stains and smells. #3: Check the cabin air filter. When was the last time you changed your cabin air filter? The smell could be coming from dirt and debris trapped in it, so swap it out (or come to Toyota of Orlando to have our car care techs swap it out for you). #4: Spray A/C cleaner into the A/C vents. Your air conditioning system can collect dirt, debris, or even mildew that can cause a nasty smell inside the cabin of your car. Try spraying the vents with the appropriate A/C cleaner (our Toyota parts store can help you find and purchase the right one for your ride). #5: Try treating your car with white vinegar. If you still smell an odor when you climb into the driver's seat, it's time to try vinegar. Use equal parts white vinegar and water and spritz the interior of your car. Let the solution sit for a while and then scrub the seats and carper - it should help improve the smell. #6: Put dryer sheets or coffee beans under the seat. It may also help to use odor-absorbing measures in your car. Try putting a stack of dryer sheets or an open (but secured) can of coffee beans under the seats. This can help absorb some of the odor in the car. #7: Schedule professional car detailing. If you've tried what feels like everything but the odor persists, then it's time to consider professional detailing to get rid of the smell. Toyota of Orlando can help - just set an appointment with our car care experts and let us get your car smelling like-new again. Let Toyota of Orlando help you get rid of unwanted odors today Want to schedule professional car detailing at Toyota of Orlando? Call us today - our car care center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

Orlando Toyota service tips

5 common car maintenance mistakes you might be making

Do you consider yourself to be pretty well-versed when it comes to car care? To be a responsible car owner and keep your ride in good shape, you should have a basic knowledge. Our Orlando auto service experts can take care of the complex or tricky issues, but when it comes to day-to-day auto care, can you handle it? We're here to tell you about five common car maintenance mistakes you may not even know you're making. Don't make these car maintenance mistakes Mistake #1: Not checking tire pressure. When was the last time you checked your tire pressure? Our auto care techs can definitely check it for you when they rotate and balance them or give you a wheel alignment, but you should check tire pressure on a routine basis in between service appointments. Weather changes or damage to the tire can cause pressure to drop and the last thing you want is to end up with a blowout. Mistake #2: Using the wrong cleaning products. What are you using to clean your car when it's time to detail it? Did you know that dish soap (which a lot of people use for washing the exterior) can actually strip protective elements off of your paint and make you more susceptible to paint damage and rust? And ammonia-based glass cleaners (like Windex) can prevent your windows from defrosting properly. Make sure you're using the right products for your car maintenance - our Orlando Toyota parts store is well-stocked and ready to help you find them. Our Orlando Toyota service techs are here to help Mistake #3: Not changing your wiper blades. You have to change your wiper blades on a routine basis - usually every 6-12 months depending on wear and tear. They wear out like any other part and when they do, they won't properly clear your windshield. This can make your drive time dangerous for you and everyone else out on the road, so be sure to replace the blades when you notice rubber breakdown, smearing, streaks, or hear squealing noises when you use them. Mistake #4: Ignoring brake noises. Do you hear squealing noises when you use your brakes? This is a surefire sign you need new brake pads. Your brakes have built-in indicators that will make this annoying noise when the brake pads are too thin. If you ignore the noise and don't replace the brake pads, you can damage your brake rotors, which is a costly car maintenance endeavor. Mistake #5: Not changing your cabin air filter. It may not seem like a big deal to skip changing your cabin air filter here and there. However, it can make a big difference. This filter prevents toxins, debris, dust, and other contaminants from getting into the cabin if your car. When it becomes clogged, it can no longer perform this task and it can also negatively impact your vehicle's air-conditioner and heater. Have questions about car maintenance? Not sure you're doing it right? Call us today - Toyota of Orlando's techs are ready and waiting to help at (407) 298-0001.

Orlando Toyota service tips

5 common car maintenance mistakes you might be making

Do you consider yourself to be pretty well-versed when it comes to car care? To be a responsible car owner and keep your ride in good shape, you should have a basic knowledge. Our Orlando auto service experts can take care of the complex or tricky issues, but when it comes to day-to-day auto care, can you handle it? We're here to tell you about five common car maintenance mistakes you may not even know you're making. Don't make these car maintenance mistakes Mistake #1: Not checking tire pressure. When was the last time you checked your tire pressure? Our auto care techs can definitely check it for you when they rotate and balance them or give you a wheel alignment, but you should check tire pressure on a routine basis in between service appointments. Weather changes or damage to the tire can cause pressure to drop and the last thing you want is to end up with a blowout. Mistake #2: Using the wrong cleaning products. What are you using to clean your car when it's time to detail it? Did you know that dish soap (which a lot of people use for washing the exterior) can actually strip protective elements off of your paint and make you more susceptible to paint damage and rust? And ammonia-based glass cleaners (like Windex) can prevent your windows from defrosting properly. Make sure you're using the right products for your car maintenance - our Orlando Toyota parts store is well-stocked and ready to help you find them. Our Orlando Toyota service techs are here to help Mistake #3: Not changing your wiper blades. You have to change your wiper blades on a routine basis - usually every 6-12 months depending on wear and tear. They wear out like any other part and when they do, they won't properly clear your windshield. This can make your drive time dangerous for you and everyone else out on the road, so be sure to replace the blades when you notice rubber breakdown, smearing, streaks, or hear squealing noises when you use them. Mistake #4: Ignoring brake noises. Do you hear squealing noises when you use your brakes? This is a surefire sign you need new brake pads. Your brakes have built-in indicators that will make this annoying noise when the brake pads are too thin. If you ignore the noise and don't replace the brake pads, you can damage your brake rotors, which is a costly car maintenance endeavor. Mistake #5: Not changing your cabin air filter. It may not seem like a big deal to skip changing your cabin air filter here and there. However, it can make a big difference. This filter prevents toxins, debris, dust, and other contaminants from getting into the cabin if your car. When it becomes clogged, it can no longer perform this task and it can also negatively impact your vehicle's air-conditioner and heater. Have questions about car maintenance? Not sure you're doing it right? Call us today - Toyota of Orlando's techs are ready and waiting to help at (407) 298-0001.

5 car anti-theft devices to protect your ride

When it comes to keeping your car safe, you know the basics. Park in a well-lit and well-trafficked area; park near a parking lot attendant if you can. Lock your doors, roll up your windows, and don't store a spare key anywhere on the outside of the vehicle. Make sure you put all valuables out of sight to reduce temptation for thieves. Buy a vehicle with a car alarm installed. However, did you know there are other ways to prevent your car from being stolen? Toyota of Orlando is here with 5 car anti-theft devices that you can easily purchase through our parts store and use to keep your ride secure when you're not behind the wheel. What car anti-theft device is right for your car? #1: Electronic tracking system An electronic tracking system may not prevent your ride from being stolen, but it can help ensure you get it back. The system is installed in the vehicle in a secret spot that's not visible to the naked eye, and the system is then registered with the local police force. GPS will record your car's movements so the police can quickly and easily track it down if it's been taken. #2: Kill switch A kill switch most likely isn't something you can install on your own, as it works with the electrical components in the vehicle and not too many people are well-versed in electrical systems. A kill switch basically prevents electricity from flowing to your car's critical components, which means it won't start and thieves will be going nowhere fast. An alternate option is a kill switch that disables the fuel pump. Either way, this car anti-theft device will get the job done. #3: Steering wheel lock A steering wheel lock won't prevent thieves from getting inside your car, but it WILL prevent them from going anywhere with it. It keeps the steering wheel from turning so even if they're able to get your car started, they won't be able to steer enough to even get it out of its spot. Plus, it's a relatively inexpensive car anti-theft device that you can install yourself in your Orlando Toyota. #4: Baby monitor Did you know you can actually employ a baby monitor as a car anti-theft device? It can't stop a thief from getting into your car, but it can record video and audio to help police when they're looking for your vehicle after the fact. Also, if you place the monitor on the dash, thieves may be deterred by the sight of it from breaking into your car. #5: Tire lock or boot Have you ever gotten a tire boot on your car for parking in the wrong place? It's a pain then, but it's also a great way to keep thieves away from your vehicle. It prevents the wheel from turning, so your Orlando Toyota's not going anywhere. This car anti-theft device is especially useful if you're going out of town or aren't going to drive your car for a while and want to keep it safe. Learn how to protect your car with Toyota of Orlando Want more information about car anti-theft systems? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001!

5 car anti-theft devices to protect your ride

When it comes to keeping your car safe, you know the basics. Park in a well-lit and well-trafficked area; park near a parking lot attendant if you can. Lock your doors, roll up your windows, and don't store a spare key anywhere on the outside of the vehicle. Make sure you put all valuables out of sight to reduce temptation for thieves. Buy a vehicle with a car alarm installed. However, did you know there are other ways to prevent your car from being stolen? Toyota of Orlando is here with 5 car anti-theft devices that you can easily purchase through our parts store and use to keep your ride secure when you're not behind the wheel. What car anti-theft device is right for your car? #1: Electronic tracking system An electronic tracking system may not prevent your ride from being stolen, but it can help ensure you get it back. The system is installed in the vehicle in a secret spot that's not visible to the naked eye, and the system is then registered with the local police force. GPS will record your car's movements so the police can quickly and easily track it down if it's been taken. #2: Kill switch A kill switch most likely isn't something you can install on your own, as it works with the electrical components in the vehicle and not too many people are well-versed in electrical systems. A kill switch basically prevents electricity from flowing to your car's critical components, which means it won't start and thieves will be going nowhere fast. An alternate option is a kill switch that disables the fuel pump. Either way, this car anti-theft device will get the job done. #3: Steering wheel lock A steering wheel lock won't prevent thieves from getting inside your car, but it WILL prevent them from going anywhere with it. It keeps the steering wheel from turning so even if they're able to get your car started, they won't be able to steer enough to even get it out of its spot. Plus, it's a relatively inexpensive car anti-theft device that you can install yourself in your Orlando Toyota. #4: Baby monitor Did you know you can actually employ a baby monitor as a car anti-theft device? It can't stop a thief from getting into your car, but it can record video and audio to help police when they're looking for your vehicle after the fact. Also, if you place the monitor on the dash, thieves may be deterred by the sight of it from breaking into your car. #5: Tire lock or boot Have you ever gotten a tire boot on your car for parking in the wrong place? It's a pain then, but it's also a great way to keep thieves away from your vehicle. It prevents the wheel from turning, so your Orlando Toyota's not going anywhere. This car anti-theft device is especially useful if you're going out of town or aren't going to drive your car for a while and want to keep it safe. Learn how to protect your car with Toyota of Orlando Want more information about car anti-theft systems? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001!

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