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Summer is here - we're well into the 100's when you count the heat index and things are scorching hot in the City Beautiful. In extreme temps like this, it's essential to care for your ride so it can still handle taking on the open road, whether you're getting around town for your day-to-day commute or hitting the highway for a summer road trip. Toyota of Orlando is here to discuss 5 common car care mistakes that drivers make in the summer - avoid them so you can save yourself a headache AND a big repair bill. See what our auto service techs have to say below. Don't make these car care mistakes as things heat up Mistake #1: Not checking your tires often. Summer takes a toll on your tires. The roads are hot and when you combine that with the friction caused by your wheels turning, you have a recipe for blowouts and flat tires. Schedule routine tire car care to keep them in good shape. You'll want to inspect them weekly for any signs of damage, check the PSI to ensure they're inflated enough, and get tire rotations on a regular basis so all four tires wear evenly and last longer. Mistake #2: Forgetting about your wiper blades. Summer means sun, right? Yes, but in Orlando, it also means almost daily rainstorms. Neglecting your wiper blades can seriously impede your field of vision, so it's essential to ensure that they're in good shape. Look for signs of damage like squealing noises, damage to the rubber strips, or water being smeared around your windshield instead of cleared off. Our Orlando Toyota parts store can get you an affordable replacement set. Mistake #3: Ignoring your cooling system. Summertime means soaring temperatures, which translates to your car working overtime to stay cool. Ignoring your cooling system can be a fatal car care mistake! You need to ensure that your vehicle always has enough coolant in the tank and that the cooling system is working properly to keep everything under the hood at the right temperature, no matter how far or fast you're driving. Make sure you have our Orlando auto service techs check things out. Let Toyota of Orlando help you keep your ride cool this summer Mistake #4: Putting off your oil changes. Coolant is essential for keeping your ride at the right temps, but oil is right up there with it. Oil ensures that your car's engine stays cool and doesn't overheat (and subsequently meld together and be absolutely ruined). You need to stay on a schedule with this type of car care so your car can do what it needs to do without overheating. Mistake #5: Not protecting your car from the sun. The strong summer sun can do a number on your ride, so be sure to protect it. Park in the shade whenever you can, use a sunshade to protect your dash, tint your windows, and apply wax regularly to shield your car's paint from fading. Need some assistance in NOT making these car care mistakes? Visit Toyota of Orlando to shop our parts store and talk to one of our techs in person. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

Did you know that there are 8 SUV options in the Toyota lineup alone? That's not even considering other makes and models. The options are seemingly endless when it comes to getting behind the wheel of one of these vehicles, but it hasn't always been like this. SUVs have been growing massively in popularity and our Orlando Toyota dealership is here to figure out why. Why are drivers choosing SUVs over cars lately? Performance capabilities. You used to have to buy a sports car to get any sort of performance - that was the only way you'd be able to turn up the volume if you wanted something with solid horsepower and torque coming out of the engine bay. The Toyota 4Runner, for example, used to only offer a 4-cylinder engine with 116 horsepower! Automakers have upped the ante when it comes to SUV performance in the past decade - the 2019 Toyota 4Runner now offers a 4.0L V6 engine with 270 horsepower. Other models have followed suit, offering far more performance capabilities than their predecessors and giving drivers the power and versatility they need. Fuel efficiency. SUVs also used to be gas guzzlers, even our Orlando Toyotas. Your budget took a hit whenever it was time to fill up at the pump and with gas prices high, drivers turned to cars to meet their drive time needs. However, gas prices have evened out and automakers have infused major fuel efficiency into their current models! Not only can you get vehicles like the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander in fuel-efficient hybrid models, you'll also find that even traditional gasoline-powered models offer you major savings at the pump. The 2019 Toyota RAV4 gets 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, for example. See what these versatile rides have to offer at Toyota of Orlando Interior space. It used to be hard to justify the additional interior space for the high gas costs and lack of performance capabilities. However, now that those two issues are no longer issues, drivers are finding that the versatility and spacious interiors of our Orlando Toyota SUVs can be put to good use for a variety of reasons. Whether you're moving to new digs or hauling half the soccer team around town, you've got the space to make it happen (without the negative trade-offs). Affordability. Our Orlando Toyota SUVs are also more affordable than ever now. You can take home a Toyota C-HR with a starting MSRP of just $21,145, and the Toyota RAV4 isn't far behind with a starting MSRP of $25,650. The days of having to bust your budget to get behind the wheel of a bigger vehicle are gone! Why not see what all the buzz is about? Check out our selection of Orlando Toyota SUVs AND the amazing deals that go along with them today. Visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, or just call to schedule a test drive at (407) 298-4500. We're open seven days a week for your convenience!

Electric cars are becoming more and more popular as people make an effort to do their part for the planet. These vehicles not only use fewer natural resources, but they also put fewer emissions out into the air and cut down on pollution and smog. Toyota has two electric - aka EV - models on the market right now, as well as a whole slew of hybrid cars that use both electric power and internal combustion (a gasoline engine) to get drivers where they need to go. But what is owning an electric car REALLY like? Toyota of Orlando is here to give you the scoop on what's entailed when it comes to maintenance, warranties, and keeping your ride charged up and ready to hit the road. Toyota of Orlando explains the ins and outs of EVs CAR MAINTENANCE Let's talk about upkeep first. Some drivers are reticent to sink their money into electric cars because they think it'll cost more to maintain these eco-friendly vehicles. Guess what? It's actually the opposite. Internal combustion engines - ones that use gasoline to stay powered - have hundreds of hoses, electrical components, and other moving parts that are prone to fail over time and have to maintained on a regular basis. Electric cars, on the other hand, are composed of maybe a dozen parts with the largest being the lithium-ion battery that keeps everything going. This means they're cheaper to maintain on a routine service schedule at Toyota of Orlando. With that in mind, it's important to stick to a schedule and regularly have the car's battery inspected. Lithium-ion batteries are notoriously expensive to replace when something goes wrong; we're talking between $5,000 and $6,000. It's not the $15,000 that it used to be, but it's still a hefty repair bill. That's why it's key to check your battery regularly to ensure it's in good condition and there are no leaks or defects. WARRANTIES Here's some more good news - you don't necessarily have to stress over battery replacements because Toyota electric cars come with extensive warranties to give you peace of mind. Most EV cars come with an 8 year/10,000 mile warranty so you don't have to stress over mechanical failures when you're investing in such an eco-friendly ride. Additionally, you can purchase extended warranties to stretch out coverage if you're so inclined. FUELING UP It's also quick and easy to keep your car charged up so you're ready to hit the road whenever. You'll find charging stations throughout Orlando if you need to charge on the go, and when you're at home it's as simple as using the provided charging cord to hook your vehicle up to an electrical outlet and then go relax. The only drawback is that charging stations in the city usually take 30 minutes to 2 hours to fully charge your ride, while charging at home can take up to 12 hours. It's not as fast as gassing up at 7-11, but it IS a lot cheaper and a lot more friendly to the environment. Take one for a test drive today Are you ready to take the plunge and become the owner of an electric car? Visit Toyota of Orlando today - we're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

Did you know that two years ago, Akio Toyoda went on the record to say that Toyota needed to stop building boring cars? He basically said that he wants his company to make cars that people TRULY love, not just drive time solutions that are efficient and affordable. Toyota took him seriously, because in addition to their lineup of reliable and economical street-ready cars (for drivers like you and me), they're now building a hypercar to hit the track. Toyota of Orlando has the scoop! What will this new hypercar have to offer? First, let's delve a little into what a hypercar is. This type of vehicle is similar to a supercar (like a Porsche 911) but take the driving experience to an entirely new level (and the price tag). These types of vehicles typically have certain characteristics exclusive to them, including: They go over 200 mph... well over 200 mph. The 200 miles per hour mark is simply the cut-off but typically, hypercars can go much faster than this. They are extremely lightweight - we're talking stripped down. Most of them won't even have amenities like air conditioning or a stereo system in order to keep weight down and subsequently make them faster. They're exclusive. Hypercars aren't mass produced like Corollas or Camrys; typically only a hundred or so of each model are made and offered for sale to a very exclusive market. Your best bet at laying eyes on one is to visit a car show. Now let's talk about Toyota's new hypercar, which they've been planning for two years. It's going to be based on the Toyota Supra GR Super Sport Concept Car and was designed and built by Toyota's Gazoo Racing Division. It will likely feature a new version of the 2.4L twin turbo V6 engine that was previously found in the TS050 LMP1 Hybrid race car. And the most exciting part? Gazoo Racing is planning on racing it in the FIA World Endurance Championship for the 2020-2021 year. That also means this new vehicle will be competing against the likes of the Aston Martin Valkyrie.   But the best news yet? Le Mans hypercars have to be closely related to actual road-going versions of vehicles, which means road-going versions will have to be built before this supercar hits the track... so keep your eyes peeled, as new models and versions of the Toyota Supra may be headed our way in the future. Stay tuned for the Orlando Toyota Supra We'll keep you posted as to the progress of this special hypercar AND its road-ready inspiration, and don't forget - the new Toyota Supra arrives at Toyota of Orlando this summer! Come down and check it out in person when it arrives. We're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road and we're open seven days a week. Call us to get details at (407) 298-4500!

Do you have a roadside emergency kit in your car? You should - you never know what life is going to throw your way and the best way to save yourself time, money, and frustration is to try and be prepared for the unknown. While you can certainly buy a roadside emergency kit off of Amazon or from an auto parts store, sometimes it's better to build your own so you can be sure you've got everything you need when the time comes to use it. Here are the main components our Orlando Toyota service experts suggest having for your roadside emergency kit - check it out. Build your own roadside emergency kit A fully inflated spare tire, a tire jack, and a lug wrench. (It's important to routinely check the condition of your spare tire to ensure it's in good shape and is inflated to the proper PSI - that way, you're always prepared for a flat tire or blowout.) A can of Fix-A-Flat as a backup to the spare tire A first aid kit - nothing fancy, but enough to deal with minor injuries on the go A flashlight for dealing with emergencies at night (and don't forget extra batteries for it) A phone charger to keep your devices powered up no matter where you are A small tool kit, or at least a multi-purpose tool in case you need to make a quick fix. Make sure you throw in a roll of duct tape. Roadside reflective triangles so you can draw attention to your car and avoid being hit should you need to pull over at night A compass (hey, you never know when you'll find yourself off the beaten path) Jumper cables to put to use in the case of a dead battery Bottled water and non-perishable snacks, like nuts or granola bars A paper road map in case your phone navigation cuts out on you Paper towels or rags for quick cleanup (baby wipes are also great) Those are the basics and should keep you covered whatever life hands you. However, if you want to REALLY be prepared, you can also add these items to your roadside emergency kit: An extra quart of motor oil Extra washer fluid Spare car fuses and lightbulbs in case something goes bad while you're out and about A portable air pump to reinflate a flat tire A towing strap or rope A car escape tool (a seatbelt cutter and window breaker tool - keep this in your glovebox so it's easy to access) And don't forget your seasonal gear! If you live in an area where winter weather is harsh, you'll want to throw in things like an ice scraper, kitty litter (for traction), a small foldable shovel, an extra set of winter gloves and a hat, and blankets.  In Florida, you might consider throwing in an umbrella and a rain poncho. Shop supplies at the Toyota of Orlando parts store Need help assembling a roadside emergency kit? Call us today - our Orlando auto service experts can lend some advice. Additionally, you can shop for a lot of the supplies at our Toyota of Orlando parts store. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road.

When it comes to your commute, are things really as convenient as they should be? If you're spending a lot of time behind the wheel then you want your drive time to be effortless, especially if you're covering long distances or fighting heavy traffic. You can buy the plushest of new Toyotas on our lot, but there are still ways to enhance the convenience of your car (and do it affordably). Check out some of Toyota of Orlando's favorite car accessories designed to improve your drive time to the max! Which of these car accessories will make its way into your ride? Car cooler/warmer: Sure, you can bring a lunch box with an ice pack, but will it REALLY stay cool in your car all day (especially in the Orlando heat)? Probably not. Investing in a small car cooler/heater, like the Cooluli Car Cooler/Heater, can save you from a nasty dance with food poisoning. It's big enough to hold six cans of soda so you can keep drinks and lunch cool all day long, and it also has a pretty awesome warming function if you want to keep your hot lunch hot. Plus, it conveniently plugs into the cigarette lighter for power. Seatback organizers: If you have kids, you have a ton of junk in your car - there's no getting around it. However, keeping things organized so you can easily locate the iPad or the wipes will make your drive time much more convenient. When it comes to car accessories for kids, seatback organizers are gold. There are a ton of them on the market (you can shop them at our Orlando Toyota parts store, too) but we recommend looking for one with an iPad holder and cord organizer, as well as cupholders and pockets for snacks, wipes, diapers, crayons, and anything else you need along for the ride. First aid kit: You never know when bumps and bruises will enter your drive time and the last thing you want to do is pull into a Walgreens and spend a bunch of money to deal with a simple papercut. Keeping a first aid kit in your car is a great way to handle minor injuries and stay on the go. You can find great options up for grabs at the Toyota of Orlando parts store! Air purifier: Have allergies? Invest in a car air purifier that can sit in your cupholder. Your drive time experience will stay fresh and clean even when pollen is at its worst outside. Best news yet - it keeps your car smelling like-new at all times, too. Shop convenience accessories at Toyota of Orlando Vehicle desk: Working on the go? Our caveat: you should always pull over BEFORE working on anything, no exceptions. However, if your job keeps you on the move then it's definitely worth investing in car accessories like a vehicle desk. These car accessories usually attach to your steering wheel so you can send emails without even leaving the driver's seat (and they're also convenient for eating on the go, let's be real.) Want to make your drive time more convenient with car accessories? Visit Toyota of Orlando's parts store today. We're open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road!

When it comes to car repairs, some people like a DIY approach. They get satisfaction out of fixing their vehicles with their own hands in the comfort of their garage, and we get it. However, some car repairs are just better left to the professionals for a multitude of reasons. Our Orlando auto service techs are here to explain in depth when you should seek expertise at our Toyota Service Center instead of tackling repairs at home. Do your car repairs require expert knowledge? Repair #1: Car computer issues. Car computers are getting more and more complex over time, and they control more and more aspects of your vehicle. These computerized systems run diagnostics, keep sensors operating, and more. Unfortunately, you'll need special tools and expert knowledge to repair issues with your car computer and if you mess it up, it can mean an extremely expensive car repair bill after the fact. Leave these issues to the professionals at Toyota of Orlando. Repair #2: Electrical repairs. It's one thing to replace a burnt out fuse, bulb, or spark plug, but it's entirely another to tackle your car's electrical system for bigger issues. Trying to keep track of all the wires, harnesses, and assemblies can be extremely confusing, leaving you open to make mistakes. Schedule auto service for electrical car repairs. Repair #3: Radiator replacement. The radiator is essential to keeping your car's cooling system running and preventing your car from overheating. It may seem like a simple fix to just replace a part, but the cooling system is a lot more complicated than you think and it won't be a quick fix. Plus, you run the risk of a $5,000+ bill if you end up with a blown engine... so maybe leave this one to our Orlando Toyota service experts. Our Orlando Toyota service experts can get to the bottom of your drive time issues Repair #4: Timing belt replacement. We know it's tempting to try and tackle this car repair on your own because it can get pricey to replace your timing belt. However, that's because it's a very labor-intensive job - you have to disassemble a big chunk of your engine to even reach the timing belt. On top of that, the timing belt is responsible for a ton of different processes inside your engine so if you mess the repair up, you could be in for a very expensive future bill. Repair #5: Transmission repairs. In order to perform repairs on your car's transmission, you need special tools AND expert knowledge. The transmission is a large part of the undercarriage and responsible for your car properly shifting gears, so if you repair it improperly, you're going nowhere fast. Leave this one to our car care experts for the best results! Have questions or think you might need a little expert assistance for your car repairs? Don't delay - call Toyota of Orlando today! We're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and we're open seven days a week. You can call to schedule your appointment at (407) 298-0001.

Thinking of heading out to New Smyrna Beach this weekend and hitting the sand? Being able to drive on the beach makes things a lot easier - not only do you have a convenient spot to cool off if things really heat up, you also don't have to hike down the beach with all of your gear in tow. However, driving on the beach isn't quite as simple as it seems. For the best experience possible, use these Orlando Toyota tips for driving on the beach! Driving on the beach is simple with these tips Tip #1: Know the rules. You can't just drive on ANY beach - it has to be a designated beach, like New Smyrna, and you often have to pay for entry. Plus, there are rules (like at New Smyrna, you must have your headlights on at all times, drive 10 mph, and have your driver's side window open). Tip #2: Pack light. Now is not the time to load up your Orlando Toyota with every single beach toy, accessory, and tool you own, nor is it the time to load up a jetski in the back of your truck. You don't want your car to weigh too much when you're driving on the beach or else it'll be hard to retain traction. Tip #3: Four-wheel drive is best. You don't NEED four-wheel drive for driving on the beach, but it does help, especially if you hit a patch of soft sand. It can get you out of a sticky spot without your vehicle having to be towed out. Tip #4: Check the tides. Typically, beach ramps will close when it's high tide so vehicles can't access the sand. However, if you're already on the beach, keep an eye on the tides and park your car carefully. The last thing you want to do is find yourself bogged down in a foot of water when the tide rises. Tip #5: Let some air out of your tires. This flattens them a little which means they have more surface area and subsequently, more traction on sand. Just remember to restore them to the right PSI when you leave the sand - driving with underinflated tires on pavement can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and even a blowout. Hit the sand in an Orlando Toyota this summer Tip #6: Follow the speed limit and avoid hard braking and sudden turns. The speed limit is there for a reason, and you should avoid hard braking and sharp turns. These abrupt, sudden movements can cause you to dig into the sand and consequently, get stuck. Tip #7: Drive near the water (but not in it). The sand close to the water is packed down and easier to drive on, but make sure you stay out of the water so you don't get stuck or damage your car. Tip #8: Wash your car when you leave! Salt from the wind and water is extremely damaging to your vehicle and you want to get it clean as quickly as possible when you head off the sand. Want more tips or want to shop the Orlando Toyotas that we think are perfect for driving on the beach? Call us today at (407) 298-4500!

When it comes to auto repairs, you can find your self spending a good chunk of money getting your car back where it needs to be. Cars are investments and expensive ones at that - keeping them in top shape is definitely a financial investment. However, there are easy and effective ways to allay costs and keep your monthly budget where it needs to be! A lot of auto repairs can be avoided if you keep up with car maintenance and routine care, and Toyota of Orlando is here to help. We sat down with our Toyota service techs to talk about the most expensive auto repairs and how you can avoid them. Check it out! What are some of the most expensive auto repairs out there? #1: Brake Lines Your brake lines are essential for safe and effective stopping power - without them, your entire braking system can fall into non-working order. They're a small part in the grand scheme of things, but replacing them can actually cost upwards of $1,000. The best way to prevent this auto repair is to consistently get brake service and have your braking system inspected so the issue can be caught early on. #2: A/C Compressor No one wants to brave Florida without A/C in their car but if the compressor in the system fails, you'll be doing just that OR shelling out big bucks to fix it ($500+). You can add freon to the system as a temporary solution but you're just delaying the inevitable. The best way to avoid an A/C compressor replacement is to maintain the system and have it inspected routinely by our Orlando Toyota service techs - they'll be able to spot anything that's wrong and fix it early. #3: Mass Airflow Sensor Your engine needs a steady flow of air to operate efficiently and to prevent mechanical problems, and both your air filters and mass airflow sensor are responsible for this. However, if you neglect your air filters, it can cause your mass airflow sensor to fail and cost you $400 or more to repair. The easiest way to avoid this auto repair is to routinely replace your air filters - it's a lot cheaper than fixing a broken sensor. #4: Head Gasket A blown head gasket means big trouble for your car - it can result in your car overheating, oil or coolant spray inside the engine bay, and white smoking flooding out of the vehicle. The really bad news? It can cost $2,000 or more to repair. However, you can avoid this issue by making sure you keep your coolant topped off and checking its condition regularly at our Toyota of Orlando service center. Let Toyota of Orlando help protect your wallet See? If you stick to a routine car maintenance schedule and let our Orlando auto service techs conduct the free multi-point inspection that we offer every time you come in, you're set - you can keep expensive auto repairs at bay and also keep your car running like-new for years to come. Schedule your appointment today - call (407) 298-0001 or come by and talk to one of our service advisors at 3575 Vineland Road. We're just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall!

It's Memorial Day Weekend! Are you thinking about getting out of town for a short-distance road trip just to mix things up? Luckily, there are tons of destinations that seem far but don't require too much time behind the wheel. Check out some of Toyota of Orlando's favorite short-distance road trip destinations and get packing - the long weekend is here! #1: St. Augustine Get your fix of history AND the beach - pack up and plan a road trip to St. Augustine this weekend. This city is renowned for its rich history and incredible food. You'll be able to visit Castillo de San Marcos (dating back to the 17th century), the St. Augustine lighthouse, the National Historic Landmark District, the Lightner Museum, and historical Flagler College. And don't forget, you can park your car and leave it. St. Augustine has plenty of trolleys to get you around town and the beach is just miles from downtown. #2: Port Canaveral If you're a space fan, hit the road and head for Port Canaveral this weekend. You can visit the Kennedy Space Center and check out things like rocket exhibits, astronaut encounters, and 3D IMAX movies. You'll also be able to check out Canaveral National Seashore and the Everglades Airboat Safari if you want to get out in the fresh air, and the beach is minutes away. #3: Crystal Springs Swim with the manatees and get back to nature in Crystal Springs, which is just a few hours from Orlando. You can hike, fish, swim in Crystal River, have a manatee encounter, birdwatch, and even take an airboat tour of the area to get your fix of Mother Nature. On top of that, the area is surrounded by quiet, quaint towns where you can relax and get some piece before getting back to the grind next week. #4: New Smyrna Beach Hit the beach and find fun in the sun! Some beaches in New Smyrna even allow you to drive on them, cutting down on the whole dragging your gear down the sand part of your day. New Smyrna also boasts the Marine Discovery Center for boating and kayaking tours where you can spot dolphins, as well as walk the beach at night to spot baby sea turtles hatching. #5: Vero Beach Head south to Vero Beach - it's a beautiful beach town that also boasts quality outlet shopping, tons of restaurants, and more water sports than you'll have time to enjoy! You'll also love the ghost and walking tours available, as well as several museums to wander if you want to cool off. #6: Clearwater Beach Clearwater is one of Florida's most iconic beach towns - enough said. There are miles of wide sandy beaches, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, tons of shopping, dining, bars, and more. Plus, the fishing is incredible whether you're fishing off the beach or heading out into the Gulf. No matter where you're headed, be sure to use your best defensive driving skills and be safe on the highway - there will be more traffic than usual. Happy Memorial Day Weekend from Toyota of Orlando!

Summer in Florida means plenty of sunshine and (overly) warm temperatures, sure. But what lots of out-of-towners don't realize is that it's also the time of year where we see daily thunderstorms! These patches of rain, lighting and wind tend to roll through in the afternoons and blow over quickly, but being out on the road during them is certainly less than pleasant. That's why you need to ensure that your car can handle it, and you should start with your car wiper blades. Do you know when to replace your windshield wipers? Toyota of Orlando is here to give you the basics of this very important part. Kick off rainy season with these Orlando Toyota tips: When to replace your windshield wipers When the rain starts, you want to ensure you have a clear field of vision out of your windshield. (Oh, and don't forget to turn on your headlights, too.) This keeps you safe and helps you avoid accidents but to achieve a clear field of vision, you need car wiper blades that are in good condition. However, much like the other parts on your car the car wiper blades don't last forever and will need to be replaced from time to time. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you troubleshoot your wipers and figure out when to replace your windshield wipers. Check out signs from our auto service experts below! Sign #1: You see streaks on your windshield when you use them. If you turn on your wipers but just see water smearing around on the windshield or have noticeable streaks left after each swipe, then it's time to replace your windshield wipers. Your wipers should completely clear the glass every time they pass over it. Sign #2: They make a groaning or chattering noise on the wet windshield. Ugh, that noise - it's the worst. If your car wiper blades are making a chattering or groaning noise every time they run over the glass then it's time to replace them. This noise indicates that the blades aren't hitting the glass correctly. Sign #3: They're not hitting certain parts of the windshield. Speaking of not hitting the glass, if you notice spots on your windshield where the blades suddenly aren't quite reaching (like the corners or a random spot in the middle), it's time to both replace the rubber part and take a look at the arms to ensure they're not damaged. Sign #4: You can see visible damage to the blades. The rubber on the blades will wear out over time just like any other part. You'll notice deterioration in the form of cracks, splitting, tearing, and other imperfections. When the blades get into this state, they can't properly clean your windshield anymore and if not replaced, could scratch the glass. Sign #5: The arms are bent or damaged. If you find that the arms of even the metal parts of the blades are damaged due to mishandling, etc. then they definitely need to be replaced so they don't damage the glass on your windshield. You may also need to change car wiper blades coming into a new season, especially if you're heading into winter weather. Regular wipers aren't meant to withstand the harshness of snow and ice and will deteriorate quickly. Let our Orlando Toyota service center replace your car wiper blades today Is it time to replace your windshield wipers? Call Toyota of Orlando - we can help! You can reach our parts and service center at (407) 298-0001.

Do you drive a manual transmission car? If so, you're definitely in the minority. According to recent research, manual transmissions are becoming less and less popular when it comes to choosing your next drivetime solution. It could be because automatic transmissions are both easier to drive and more efficient, offering a simpler and more enjoyable drive time (for some drivers, at least - some still love the thrill of driving a stick shift). Because of this lack of interest, carmakers are slowly reducing their manual ranks and not offering the option anymore to trim down inventory and simplify production. Where have all the manual transmissions gone? Toyota conducted a study to see just how uncommon manual transmissions were actually becoming, and our Orlando Toyota dealership has skimmed the highlights for you. Check it out! As of this year, the Corolla, Tacoma, Yaris, and 86 are the only cars left in this drive time configuration. All other models - including the new Orlando Toyota Supra - are available in automatic only. In 2018, just 1% of all Toyota Corollas sold were manual - that's around 2,800 vehicles total. And a lot of those were the new Corolla Hatchback, which is a car designed for driving enthusiasts who would likely choose this transmission type for a more exciting drive time. When it comes to the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Yaris, only 5% of all models sold were stick shift. In fact, so few Yaris models were sold in this transmission that it will no longer be available in 2020. Toyota will keep it as an option on the Tacoma because off-roaders tend to prefer it for more control. The 86 - our resident Orlando Toyota sports car - had a higher percentage of manual transmissions, clocking in a 33%. But conversely, that means that 67% of buyers preferred an automatic transmission with paddle shifters for more efficiency and a simpler drive time. As you can see, it looks like this particular type of transmission may be on its way out. It'll always have its place for sports car enthusiasts and truck drivers, but when it comes to the mainstream, it seems to be losing popularity. Ford no longer makes an F-150 pickup (surprisingly), and both Chevy and GMC did away with their manual transmissions for their best-selling trucks. You won't find it on most Dodges or Cadillacs, nor will you be able to pick one up if you're driving home a Ram 1500 or a Jeep Cherokee. Should you choose this transmission for your next Orlando Toyota? So, what's the allure of this type of transmission, then? Here are some perks to keep in mind when you start car shopping: They're typically easier to maintain - they're simple systems than automatic, and usually the clutch is the only part that really needs to be repaired (and not for a long while) You can get better fuel economy with them because you're in control of how your vehicle drives and how often it shifts, which gears it uses, etc. You have more control over your driving experience Your brakes don't wear as quickly because you can downshift to slow your vehicle They're typically cheaper than their automatic counterparts The best way to tell if this type of transmission is for you? Test drive one today! Come down to Toyota of Orlando and get into the driver's seat - we're located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.