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Orlando Toyota service tips

Six signs you're having car alternator problems

Your car battery is an essential part of your car's performance. It produces a ton of power so that you can both start your car AND keep it running while it's out on the road. In fact, it produces so much power that without some assistance, it would drain pretty quickly. That's where your car alternator comes into play - this critical component actually recycles energy to charge your car battery AND help power the electrical system. Without it, you're going nowhere fast. That's why it's important to be able to recognize when you're having problems with your car alternator, and Toyota of Orlando's auto service techs are here to help. Check out their quick checklist and if any of these signs sound familiar, schedule car care with them today! Don't ignore these six signs of car alternator issues Sign #1: The warning light is on There's actually a warning light for your car alternator in some vehicles; it's shaped like a battery and may say ALT or GEN underneath. However, your battery warning light might also serve as a warning sign that you're due for some car maintenance at Toyota of Orlando. Don't ignore it! Sign #2: Your car battery is giving you trouble Does it seem like you're having trouble getting your car started, even when you know your battery should be good? This can be a sign that your car alternator isn't working. Remember, it recharges your battery when the engine is running because the battery has to produce so much power. If it's not working, the battery will start to drain fast. Sign #3: Your car's lights are dim When you start your vehicle, do you notice that your interior and exterior lights seem dimmer than normal? Or maybe they start out bright but as you drive, they start to dim. This is an indicator of a problem with your car alternator; it helps to power your electrical system, so your lights dimming means the system isn't getting enough power. Sign #4: You smell something burning when the car is running Sometimes you can have problems with this essential part because of the belts it's associated with. It works in conjunction with a system of belts and when they aren't working properly or turning as they should, they can create friction. In turn, this can create a weird burning smell (kind of like an electrical fire) when your car is in action. Luckily, our Orlando car maintenance techs can fix this by tightening or repairing the belts to get you back out on the road. Sign #5: You see a broken belt If you can actually see a broken belt under the hood, that's likely your issue! Bring your car to Toyota of Orlando to have our expert auto service techs get things up and running again. Sign #6: You hear grinding or whining noises from the engine bay Your car alternator has to utilize a lot of moving parts to be able to create all the necessary power. If one of those parts breaks or comes loose, it can create odd noises inside the engine bay. If you hear these alongside any of the above signs, it's time to visit our Toyota service center. Schedule auto repairs at Toyota of Orlando today Have questions? Come on in - we're open and ready to serve you at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall. You can call to schedule an appointment ahead of time at (407) 298-0001!

2020 Toyota RAV4

Over 10 million Toyota RAV4s sold to date

The Toyota RAV4 is a best-seller - there's no denying it. This recently redesigned SUV is a seamless blend of fuel efficiency, versatility, and sleek style; it's offered a reliable and adaptable way for drivers to get around town for decades. In fact, over 10 million Toyota RAV4s have been sold to date. That's nearly as many as the Ford Model-T, which sold 15 million models in its lifetime, and about half as many as the Volkswagen Beetle, which sold 20 million. And this much-loved Toyota is still going strong. But why? What makes this new Orlando Toyota such a popular drive time solution? We're here to hit some of the highlights and tell you what we love best about the 2020 Toyota RAV4 so you can see if it's something you might want to put in your driveway today. 6 reasons we love the new 2020 Toyota RAV4 #1. You can go green if you choose. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 is available in both traditional gasoline-powered models as well as new hybrid models that give you a go-green solution (and improved fuel efficiency). #2. It comes in 10 different models. You'll be able to choose from four hybrid models, four traditional models, and two models geared toward off-road adventures - the TRD Off-Road and Adventure models. #3. The exterior has been completely redesigned. It's boasting a brand-new silhouette that's edgier and more muscular than ever before, as well as design upgrades like flared fenders, LED lighting, 17-19" alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust, and a rear spoiler. Plus, you can take this Orlando Toyota home in 17 different paint colors, including eight all-new two-toned paint schemes. #4. The interior is showcasing major updates, too. You'll love the panoramic glass roof, available SofTex seating with orange, red, or blue accent stitching, ambient lighting, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The dash comes trimmed with stylish soft-touch materials, and the interior is available in multiple colors including ash, black, and dark brown. #5. The technology is tops. You'll be able to stay safe, connected, and entertained each and every time you get behind the wheel. This new Toyota SUV features tech like a 7-8" touchscreen audio system, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, JBL audio elements, navigation, an integrated backup camera, and more. Plus, safety features like Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, an Advanced Airbag System, and Star Safety System are woven into every single model to give you the peace of mind your deserve. #6. The performance is as versatile as it gets. As mentioned, the 2020 model of this Toyota SUV is also available in a hybrid model. Plus, you'll be able to choose from features like all-wheel drive, active cornering assist, multi-terrain select, Hill Start Assist Control, and Sport, Eco, and Normal driving modes. It's never been easier to customize your drive time! Shop this best-selling SUV at Toyota of Orlando Get behind the wheel today - take the new 2020 Toyota RAV4 for a test drive at Toyota of Orlando. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall, and you can call us at (407) 298-4500 to learn more and schedule your appointment!

Orlando car care

Car care tips: How to get stickers off of your car

Updated on April 1, 2026 Maybe it’s a fandom sticker that’s faded beyond recognition or the need to remove a parking decal from last semester. Whatever it is, we’ve all been in the situation where we need to know how get a sticker off a car. However, it’s not as simple as just peeling it off. Most stickers made for cars are made with a special adhesive that makes them difficult to remove. And with good reason… you don’t want someone stealing your parking decal! Toyota of Orlando is here with tips to help you remove stickers from your car without damaging the paint or glass. Check out our guide below! How to Safely Remove Stickers From Your Car Without Damaging the Paint Multiple safe methods to remove car stickers: The blog outlines five effective techniques: heat, Goo Gone, ice, rubbing alcohol, and white vinegar. Each  is designed to loosen adhesive and make removal easier without damaging your vehicle. Technique matters to protect your paint: Using proper tools (like microfiber cloths or plastic cards), avoiding sharp objects on paint, and peeling at a 45-degree angle can prevent scratches and residue issues. Stubborn stickers may require combined approaches: Older or baked-on decals often need a mix of heat and adhesive removers, along with patience to avoid leaving behind glue or damaging surfaces. Post-removal care is essential: Cleaning the area and applying wax helps restore shine, protect the clear coat, and maintain a consistent finish across your vehicle. Prevention tips can save time and effort: Avoid placing stickers on painted surfaces when possible. Opt for glass or removable clings to reduce the risk of damage and simplify future removal. How to get a sticker off a car: What to know beforehand Before you get started, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, patience is key. Trying to rush the process or aggressively scrape a sticker off can lead to scratches, chipped paint, or damaged tint. Second, always test any product you’re using on a small, inconspicuous area first. This is especially true if you’re working on painted surfaces. And finally, make sure your vehicle is clean and dry before attempting sticker removal. Dirt and debris can cause scratching if you start rubbing or scraping right away. A quick wash around the area can make a big difference in protecting your Orlando Toyota's finish. Toyota of Orlando's top 5 ways to remove a sticker from your car Option #1: Heat If you have a blow dryer on hand, plug it into an extension cord and take it outside. Our Orlando Toyota car care techs recommend heating the sticker you want to remove with the hand dryer for a minute or so. This will help warm up the adhesive, so you can peel back a corner. Just be careful not to overheat one small section for too long with the hair dryer. Also, keep the dryer moving so you don’t damage the clear coat. Once the sticker starts to lift, pull it slowly at a 45-degree angle rather than straight up. This can help prevent tearing and reduce leftover sticker residue. Use a rubber spatula or your finger to carefully peel the rest of the sticker away from the paint. You can use rubbing alcohol to remove any residue left over. Heat works well because adhesive on the sticker softens when warmed. If you don’t have a blow dryer, parking your car in direct Florida sunlight for a bit can also help loosen things up (especially here in Orlando where the sun is strong most of the year). Option #2: Goo Gone Goo Gone’s main purpose is to get rid of sticky stuff, so it can be extremely helpful in this aspect of car care. Liberally apply it to the sticker, wait a few minutes, and peel the sticker away from your Orlando Toyota. If you’re dealing with an older sticker that’s baked onto the surface, you may need to apply the Goo Gone more than once. Let it soak into the edges so it can penetrate the sticker fully. After removing the sticker, wipe the area clean with a microfiber cloth. You should also wash it with soap and water to remove any oily residue. This step is especially important if the sticker was on painted surfaces, as leftover product can attract dirt or dull your ride's shine over time. Option #3: Ice Quite the opposite from heat, ice can actually help remove a sticker from your car. It's a great trick if you’re working with a thinner decal or something that’s more brittle. The cold temperature hardens the adhesive, making it less stretchy and easier to chip away. Hold the ice against the sticker for a few minutes to break up the adhesive and then start to peel it away. You may need a bit of help from a credit card or a razor blade, but we don’t recommend using metal on anything but glass (you could damage your car’s paint if you use it on painted surfaces). If you use a credit card, hold it flat against the surface and gently push under the edge of the sticker until you can peel it up. And remember, when working on windows, always be careful if your vehicle has tinted glass . Scraping too aggressively can damage the tint film if you’re working on the interior. Option #4: Rubbing alcohol Smearing rubbing alcohol on a sticker can help break up the adhesive on the back so it’s easier to peel. On top of that, rubbing alcohol is easy to find and usually safe for glass and most painted surfaces if you use it properly. Apply it with a soft cloth and allow it to sit for a minute before attempting to peel the sticker. If there's still residue, gently rub in a circular motion until the adhesive dissolves. Follow up with a wash and a coat of wax if the sticker was on your car's paint. Waxing afterward helps protect your car's clear coat and keeps your Orlando Toyota looking shiny and clean. Option #5: White vinegar White vinegar is a simple household solution that can actually be effective. The mild acidity helps weaken the adhesive without being overly harsh on surfaces like paint. Soak a sponge in white vinegar and hold it over the sticker until it’s soaked through. Then peel the sticker slowly away and use vinegar to help rub off any leftover adhesive. If the sticker doesn’t come off easily the first time, reapply and let it sit a bit longer. After the sticker is gone, rinse the area thoroughly and dry it with a microfiber towel to prevent streaking, especially if you’re working on glass. Extra Toyota tips for stubborn stickers Sometimes you’ll run into a sticker that just doesn’t want to budge. In those cases, combining your methods can help. For example, you could apply heat first to lift the edges, and then use Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol to tackle leftover adhesive. The key is to go slowly and avoid forcing it. Peeling a sticker too quickly can leave behind layers of paper or glue that are harder to remove than the sticker itself. Another important factor is timing. The longer a sticker has been on your vehicle, the more likely it is to leave residue or cause uneven paint fading underneath. In sunny climates like Orlando, UV exposure can cause the surrounding paint to fade slightly. This can make the area under the sticker look newer once it’s removed. While this usually evens out over time, regular washing and waxing can help you maintain a consistent finish on your ride. Protecting your paint after sticker removal Once you’ve successfully removed the sticker and cleaned away the adhesive, it’s a good idea to give that area a little extra attention. Wash the spot with car-safe soap and water, dry it completely, and apply a coat of wax. This helps protect the clear coat and also blends the surface back in with the rest of your vehicle. Remember, proper car care doesn’t stop once the sticker is gone. Protecting your paint ensures your ride keeps looking its best for years to come. Let us help you with your car care supplies at Toyota of Orlando And for future reference, avoid putting stickers on the car’s paint. They’re harder to remove and you can easily damage your car’s paint while doing it. This can lead to needing a touchup or even a paint job. If you have to put a sticker on your ride, our Toyota of Orlando auto service techs recommend putting it on the glass. If you’re someone who loves decorating your car with decals, consider removable window clings instead of permanent adhesive stickers. They’re much easier to take off and won’t leave behind stubborn residue. It’s a small switch that can save you time and effort down the road. Get more tips from our Orlando Toyota experts Have more questions about how to remove a sticker from a car or need help finding supplies for a stubborn sticker? Call our car care experts at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall! Our team is always happy to help you keep your Orlando Toyota looking its best with professional car care advice and quality service you can count on. FAQs about Car Paint 1. Can you fix car paint damage at home? Yes, minor car paint damage like small scratches, swirl marks, or chips can often be fixed at home using touch-up paint, polishing compounds, or scratch repair kits. However, deeper scratches, peeling paint, or clear coat damage typically require professional repair to achieve a smooth, color-matched finish. 2. How do you get stains off your car paint? You can remove stains from car paint by washing the area first, then using products like bug and tar remover, white vinegar, or a clay bar to break down contaminants. For tougher stains like water spots or tree sap, a gentle polish or specialized cleaner may be needed, followed by waxing to protect the paint. 3. How can you protect your car's paint? You can protect your car’s paint by regularly washing and waxing it to shield the clear coat from dirt, UV rays, and contaminants. Parking in shaded areas, using a car cover, and applying paint protection products like sealants or ceramic coatings can also help maintain a glossy, long-lasting finish.

new Toyota sports car

4 things to consider before buying a sports car

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!

Toyota Corolla

2020 Toyota Corolla named Car of the Year by Rocky Mountain Automotive Press

We've always known that the Orlando Toyota Corolla was an exceptional car. It's sporty and stylish, it's affordable, it's reliable - and it's been in our lineup since 1966. Talk about longevity! And our opinions were recently validated - the 2020 Toyota Corolla was named Car of the Year by the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. We've got the full scoop and we've ALSO got plenty of these Orlando Toyotas on our lot so you can take a test drive today! What makes the 2020 Toyota Corolla Car of the Year? The Toyota Corolla beat out quite a few other options - Rocky Mountain Automotive Press considers numerous cars before settling on four finalists to vote on. The other three finalists included the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive convertible, the 2020 Nissan Versa, and the 2020 Subaru Legacy. But how were these four vehicles chosen in the first place? Here's the criteria they had to meet: The vehicle must have undergone a total redesign for that model year The vehicle must have had a new powertrain element element added to its design And then each model is test driven by a member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press so they can vote for their favorite. This year, the 2020 Toyota Corolla came out on top! Like we said, we're not surprised. This reliable and sporty Orlando Toyota has been a best-seller on our lot for decades and it doesn't look like that'll be changing anytime soon. The 2020 model year ushered a redesign in, and with it brought a fresh look, new performance elements, enhanced technology, and even a brand-new hybrid model to allow drivers to go even greener AND save more fuel. Here are some of the highlights you can look forward to when you test drive the 2020 Toyota Corolla at our dealership! Great fuel efficiency. You'll get 31/40 mpg in the normal model and 53/52 mpg in the new hybrid model. Whichever you choose, you can count on savings every time you hit the gas pump. This Orlando Toyota was also named the 2020 Green Car of the Year by the Green Car Journal. 8 different models to choose from - and this includes a hybrid model, a special Nightshade Edition, and a new 6-speed manual transmission SE model. A redesigned exterior and interior. The 2020 model of this best-seller sits lower and has a wider base, making it more aggressive and even sportier than before. You can opt for 18" alloy wheels and a new honeycombed grille, as well as an LED lighting scheme. The interior is more spacious and comfortable and showcases features like available SofTex trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a moonroof, and glossy piano-black accents. Enhanced performance. You'll find features like a 2.0L Dynamic Force engine, paddle shifters, and sport mode at your fingertips every time you get behind the wheel, keeping your drive time exciting. And let's not forget the price tag - the starting MSRP of this fan favorite is just $19,600, making it an affordable option. Shop this Orlando Toyota online OR in person today Are YOU ready to get behind the wheel? Toyota of Orlando is open, and you can also do most of your shopping AND customize your deal without even leaving home. Explore our 2020 Toyota Corolla inventory on our website or call us today at (407) 298-4500 to learn more! We're conveniently located just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

Orlando Toyota tips

How to maintain your car when you're not driving it often

In the wake of COVID-19, the entire state of Florida has been put under a stay-at-home order until the end of April. That means 4 weeks of staying home unless you're an essential worker or on an essential errand. That also means 4 weeks of probably not driving your car much, which can be a big change if you regularly commute on a daily basis to school or work. But just because you're not driving your car often doesn't mean you can let maintenance slip - in fact, there are certain car care items you'll want to check off the list while your car sits in the driveway. Here's the info you need straight from our Orlando Toyota service techs. Don't skip this essential car care during quarantine Tip #1: Keep an eye on your tires. When your car sits in one spot for a long time, your tires can develop soft, flat spots. Obviously, when you're back to hitting the road these flat spots make you incredibly prone to a blowout. To avoid this car care issue, you can move your car a few feet every few days so it's not putting pressure on the same areas all the time, and check your tire pressure regularly to ensure they're not losing air. Tip #2: Go outside and start it every so often. You run the risk of your battery going bad if you let your car sit for 30 days, which means you'll have a hard time getting back up and running when you're free to do so. Go outside every few days and start your car to top off the battery, and consider taking your ride for a quick drive around the block. (It'll be a nice break from whoever you're quarantining with, anyway.) Tip #3: Don't skip oil changes. Just because you're sitting at home doesn't mean you don't need essential car care like oil changes. Oil can deteriorate with temperature fluctuations, so it's a good idea to get an oil change now and keep an eye on the condition of the oil by pulling the dipstick out of the engine every few weeks. Tip #4: Fill up your gas tank now. You should fill your gas tank before you stay home if you're not planning on going anywhere for the next 30 days. If the tank isn't full, you run the risk of condensation developing inside of it, which can spell big problems. You can even look into fuel-additives that help maintain the integrity of the fuel - ask our Orlando Toyota service center which is best for your car. Tip #5: Try to find covered parking. The sun is out in full force already in Florida, so try to find covered parking for your ride if possible to shield it from paint damage and fading. If nothing else, you may want to look for a car cover to keep it protected for the duration of your quarantine. A few other things to maintain when it comes to car care? Make sure you visually check your belts, hoses, transmission fluid, and coolant before you hit the road again to ensure all is in order. Toyota of Orlando is here for you Need more tips? Call Toyota of Orlando - our service center is open and ready to help. You can reach us seven days a week at (407) 298-0001!

How to shop for a car online with Toyota of Orlando

In the wake of COVID-19, the health of our customers and employees is our number one priority. We want everyone to be safe, and we also want to be able to fulfill your automotive needs as efficiently and affordably as possible. That's why Toyota of Orlando has launched a suite of digital retailing tools on our website! You can now complete over 95% of your car shopping process online without even leaving the comfort of home. Check out the tools in more detail below. 5 easy ways to shop for a car online New and Used Inventory Did you know that you can see all of our new and used cars without even leaving the couch? We host ALL of our new and used cars right here on our website. When you peruse our inventory, you'll be able to see detailed photos and video of each Orlando Toyota for sale, as well as get important information like: Mileage Owner history MSRP Fuel economy Vehicle specifications And any other essential details regarding the ride you're interested in. Find the car you want before you come to our store! Value Your Trade Have a vehicle you want to trade in? You're in luck - not only do we offer top-dollar cash for our trade-ins, we also have a handy digital tool to help you find out just how much your car is worth. Use the Value Your Trade tool to enter information like make/model, mileage, condition, and your VIN number to get an estimate of how much your car is worth. Get Pre-Approved Save time spent in the store and get pre-approved for financing with our convenient Get Pre-Approved tool. Here you can enter relevant information about yourself and your vehicle to help expedite securing financing. Online Shopper Of all of our digital retailing tools to use when you shop for a car, Online Shopper could very possibly be our favorite. When you use this tool you'll be able to put in information regarding yourself, the vehicle you want, the vehicle you want to trade in (if you have one), how much money you want to put down, and how long you want your finance term to be in order to customize your deal and monthly payment! Website Chat And don't forget, we're always here to help. You can use our website chat tool to speak to a sales associate to get any of the information you need when you shop for a car. Get real-time answers to any and all of your questions. And don't forget, we're still here onsite to help! You can call us anytime at (407) 298-4500 if you prefer to speak to someone on the telephone rather than work with our digital retailing tools. Toyota of Orlando is committed to your safety when you shop for a car Toyota of Orlando is open for all of your automotive needs, and you can rest assured that when you arrive to finalize your deal, your safety is still our #1 priority and we've taken every precaution to ensure it. Schedule an appointment to shop for a car today - you can visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

Toyota of Orlando tips

6 tips to protect your car from the sun this summer

Summer is coming - things are already heating up here in Central Florida as we faced record highs in the 90s this weekend. With summer comes some pretty intense sun, and that sun can do some serious damage to your car if you're not prepared for it. Toyota of Orlando is here with quick car care tips to help you protect your car from the sun all summer long. Use these 6 tips to protect your ride Tip #1: Wax Wax is your #1 defense against the sun if you want your car's paint to stay looking like-new. Our Orlando auto service center recommends that you invest in a quality wax and apply several coats to your car a few times a year as part of your car care routine - every three months should do the job to protect your car's paint from harsh UV rays that can cause fading and peeling. Ask the Toyota of Orlando parts store which wax is best for your ride. Tip #2: Park in the shade If you can park in covered parking, do it. It doesn't matter if it's a garage, a carport, or even a big, shady tree - any cover you can afford your Orlando Toyota will help shield if from the sun. Tip #3: Invest in a sunshade A sunshade will help protect your car's dash and interior from the sun. You should get a quality one (the cheap ones tend to be too flimsy to last long) and put it up in your windshield every time you park your car. This simple car care step will also help keep things cooler in the interior of your car. Tip #4: Consider tint Tint is another great way to shield the interior of your car from the sun AND keep things cooler. And the best news? We offer affordable tinting services right here at Toyota of Orlando. Schedule an appointment today at our auto service center. Toyota of Orlando's car care routine to protect your ride from the sun Tip #5: Buy seat covers and a steering wheel cover Still concerned about the interior of your car? You should be - sunlight coming in the windows and windshield can fade your upholstery and the plastic in your car. It can also cause leather seats to crack. Seat covers and a steering wheel cover can protect your interior as well as offer a more affordable way to switch up the look of the interior. Tip #6: Condition leather well We mentioned that the sun can do a number on leather seats, shifters, and steering wheels. Seat covers and a sunshade are a great deterrent to this damage, but you should still ensure that you condition anything leather well and make it a normal part of your car care routine. Want more tips? Think you need to shop for supplies? Call Toyota of Orlando today! We're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 or you can stop by our auto parts store at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

Toyota of Orlando tips

The 8 most dangerous driving mistakes you should avoid making

Do you feel confident that you engage in safe driving whenever you get behind the wheel? Most people do - but some of them are wrong. There are actually some pretty dangerous driving mistakes that you could be making without even realizing it, and Toyota of Orlando is here to discuss the most dangerous ones to help you break the habits. Don't make these dangerous driving mistakes #1: Driving on underinflated tires. Underinflated tires won't just put a damper on your Orlando Toyota's fuel efficiency - they also make you a lot more prone to a blowout. While a flat tire may not seem like too dangerous of a situation, reframe it like this: you're driving at high speeds on the highway around other vehicles and your tire blows out. Pretty dangerous, right? Fill up your car tires to the proper PSI. #2: Driving while sleepy. You should never drive while fatigued - it's just as bad as driving drunk. Pull over and take a nap in a safe spot, or call it quits for the night and get some sleep so you're refreshed in the morning. #3: Speeding. Speeding makes you a lot more likely to get into a bad accident - it's the second highest cause of fatal accidents. Follow the speed limit for safe driving habits, no excuses! #4: Distracted driving. Texting while driving, putting on makeup, eating, talking to passengers... anything that takes your attention off the road and the task at hand puts you at a much higher risk of an accident. Use safe driving habits and put away the distractions. #5: Not wearing a seatbelt. Safe driving means buckling up no matter what. This means even if you're just going a block to the 7-11 for a soda. 33% of accident fatalities happen because people aren't wearing seatbelts. You should also teach your children and any other passengers this safe driving habit. #6: Driving while under the influence. Don't drive drunk. Period. Have a zero tolerance policy for yourself and anyone you're supposed to ride with. #7: Not taking care when driving in bad weather. You need to adjust your safe driving habits when you hit the road in bad weather. Rain, snow, high winds, and icy conditions all require extremely careful driving, slower speeds, and more even acceleration and braking. Be sure to adjust your drive time style accordingly. #8: Following too closely. Don't tailgate people. When you drive too closely to the person in front of your Orlando Toyota, it makes you a lot more likely to rear-end them if they have to hit the brakes or drop their speed. Leave the proper distance between your vehicle and the cars around you. Get more tips from Toyota of Orlando Want more tips about safe driving or have questions? Call us! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.

car care

Six signs you're due for an oil change

When was the last time you brought your car in for an oil change? If it's been a while, then you might be due for this essential auto service appointment. However, it's not always easy to tell if you're due for an Orlando oil change, especially if your oil light doesn't illuminate in the dash. We sat down with a few of our Orlando Toyota techs to pinpoint some signs that it might be time to give our Toyota service center a call and schedule an appointment. Read on! 6 signs you need to schedule an oil change Sign #1: Your oil is dark and dirty. If you take a peek at the motor oil on your dipstick and notice that it's dark in color (dark brown or black) or dirty, then you're due for an oil change. Your oil should be tan or caramel in color and clean for it to properly function inside of the engine. Dark or dirty oil prevents your engine from functioning properly and can ultimately lead to damage. Sign #2: Knocking sounds from inside the engine. Do you hear knocking sounds from inside the engine bay when you're out and about? Oil is responsible for lubricating the inside of the engine and keeping things cool. If you're hearing knocking or rumbling noises, it could be the inside of your engine deteriorating due to lack of clean oil. Sign #3: The smell of oil inside your vehicle. If you smell oil inside the car, you very may well have an oil leak and you should have our Orlando car maintenance techs take a peek at things to ensure your engine is functioning as it should. Sign #4: Racking up the miles. Have you been putting extra miles on your car due to a long commute or a road trip? It may be time to schedule an Orlando oil change - after all, depending on the type of motor oil you're using, you could be due for a change every 3,000 - 10,000 miles. Sign #5: Smoke from the exhaust. If you see smoke - not vapor - coming out of your car's exhaust tailpipe, it could be because of a problem with your car's oil. Give Toyota of Orlando a call to see if our techs can check things out for you. Sign #6: Doesn't hit the tic marks. When you pull the dipstick out of your car's engine, you should see the oil hitting in between the two tic marks on the stick. If it falls below the bottom tic mark, then you're low on oil and need to get an oil change to ensure your engine stays cool and lubricated no matter how hard your car works. Call Toyota of Orlando and schedule your car care today! See any of these signs and feel like you're due for a change? Call us! Toyota of Orlando's service center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001. Don't forget to check out service specials page to see our service coupons. We're conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall!

New all-wheel-drive Toyotas are coming soon

When most people hear the words "all-wheel-drive", they tend to think of SUVs and trucks. This special performance capability isn't found on every vehicle, and it's a lot less frequent in the world of sedans than it is in the world of SUVs, trucks, crossovers, and minivans. However, that's about to change - two new all-wheel-drive models are coming to Toyota of Orlando, offering a sleek and sophisticated way to hit the road no matter the weather. So, which Orlando Toyotas will offer this new versatility? The Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon. The Toyota Camry used to have all-wheel-drive but hasn't offered the feature since 1991, while the Toyota Avalon has never offered it. However, as of 2020, you'll be able to take both of these polished sedans home with a little bit of extra performance capability. Toyota's Dynamic Torque Control AWD System will be found on both cars - on the LE, XLE, SE, and XSE grades of the Toyota Camry, and on the XLE and Limited grades of the Toyota Avalon. Additionally, both of these Orlando Toyotas will offer a high-efficiency 2.5L 4-cylinder engine under the hood that's paired with an 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission and even dual exhaust on some of the models. When combined with the new all-wheel drive capabilities, it's easy to see these new Toyotas will offer a seamless blend of performance, efficiency, and safety. All-wheel drive is becoming more and more popular across the board - but why? Here's a quick breakdown of the benefits that this special drive time feature has to offer: Better traction is, without a doubt, the top benefit when it comes to AWD vehicles. Orlando Toyotas that have this feature offer superior traction, especially in slick conditions like rain, snow, sleet, or ice. Why? Because in an AWD car, all four wheels are moving the car forward. If one or even two of them loses traction, you still have movement, traction, and control via the other two. Better acceleration in another benefit. Four wheels powering the car gives you more get-up-and-go than two wheels powering the car, period. Better steering is a perk - the front wheels are typically used for steering rather than powering the car forward (like in a front-wheel-drive car) so you get more control. Better weight distributio n is a benefit... we'll explain. Basically, in a front-wheel-drive car the engine is in the front, which makes the car heavier up front. All-wheel-drive vehicles have additional parts in the rear to ensure all four wheels are doing their part, so there's a better weight distribution and in turn, better handling. All in all, you'll be safer and find improved performance AND handling on your side when you choose a vehicle with this feature. That's why we're so excited to see if offered on the Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon. These two classic Toyotas already excel in the areas of performance and safety, so we can't wait to see how they handle with this added feature. Ready to get your hands on one? Call Toyota of Orlando today - we're open and waiting at (407) 298-4500. You can also start your shopping online at our website and complete over 95% of the process without even leaving home. Get behind the wheel today!

car detailing

5 tips for sanitizing and fully detailing your car

In the wake of COVID-19, everyone is all about sanitization. It's essential to wash your hands, clean your phone, and make sure your home and workspace are sanitized to help prevent the spread of the virus. However, what about your car? If you're like most people, you're in and out of your Orlando Toyota several times a day, every single day. If your car isn't clean and sanitized, it doesn't matter how clean your hands are - the moment you touch the door handle, steering wheel, or shifter, your hands are essentially dirty again. Toyota of Orlando is here with car detailing tips to help you get your ride as clean and sanitized as possible. 1. Stock up on supplies Here at Toyota of Orlando, we're of the opinion that you should always have hand sanitizer on hand because... germs. But you definitely want to stock your car in the wake of COVID-19. Try to keep your car stocked with disinfectant wipes so you can quickly access them and wipe down surfaces on a regular basis. It's also a good idea to have hand sanitizer or antibacterial hand wipes on deck for when you have to pump gas, pay tolls, etc. 2. Rethink how you're cleaning surfaces When it comes to car detailing, you're probably using the usual cleaners. However, you need to up the ante if you want to sanitize and disinfect your ride. This is the time to swap out your supplies. Did you know that you can use simple soap and water against the Coronavirus? We vote you shoot for antibacterial soap for a more comprehensive clean, but plain dish soap will work, too. Mix up a soap-and-water solution and use it to scrub down seats and other fabrics, or throw seat covers in the washing machine. You can use disinfectant wipes to hit things like the dashboard and center console. 3. Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces You'll want to pay special attention to high-touch surfaces and make sure you clean them (often) with disinfectant wipes. These areas include: Door handles (both inside and exterior) Steering wheel Turn signal/windshield wiper controls Seatbelt buckles Shifter Infotainment screen and buttons A/C and heat controls And any other knobs or buttons on the interior that you touch. You should also consider where droplets may land if you cough or sneeze into your arm, like the driver's side door. 4. Don't forget the car seats Do you have car seats or booster seats in your backseat? Make sure you clean them, too. You can use the soap and water mixture we mentioned above to get the fabric (and some car seats allow you to remove the fabric surfaces so you can throw them in the washing machine) and disinfectant wipes for all the plastic parts. 5. Get on a follow-up schedule Now that your Orlando Toyota is sparkling clean and disinfected from your car detailing, keep it that way! Get on a routine cleaning schedule to wipe down surfaces, especially high-touch ones, on a routine basis. This will KEEP your car disinfected for the long-term. Have questions? Call us - Toyota of Orlando is here to help with all of your car detailing questions. You can reach us seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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