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hybrid cars for sale

2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid voted best hybrid car of the year

Are you trying to find an easy way to make your day-to-day life a little bit more eco-friendly? While there are lots of small ways to make big changes, one of the biggest could be the car you drive. Enter our Orlando Toyota hybrids - these green cars cut down on emissions, use a lot less gasoline than traditional cars, and look cool while doing it. Introducing a hybrid car into your daily drive time is an easy way to make your life a lot more environmentally friendly, and we're here to help you do it with the hybrid car that was voted the BEST of 2020 by U.S. & World Report News... the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid. What does the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid have to offer? The 2020 Toyota Camry is basically a hybrid version of its best-selling sibling, the Orlando Toyota Camry. This means you're getting the best of both worlds, because you'll get the green performance and still have the classic style, dependability, and top-of-the-line features that drivers of the original model have come to know and love. And not only will you feel good about your drive time, you'll also save money on gas - this new Toyota hybrid gets an estimated 51/53 mpg. Here are some of the other highlights we love about this Orlando green car! It has a starting MSRP of just $28,430, making it an affordable hybrid option It comes in 10 different paint colors with hues ranging from Supersonic Red to Wind Chill Pearl There are three models available to choose from - the LE, SE, and XLE It boasts tech features like Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Toyota + Alexa, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa, as well as Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Bluetooth, and more You'll get peace of mind thanks to safety tech like the Star Safety System, an Advanced Airbag System, Toyota Safety Sense P, a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Hill Start Assist Control, and automatic engine shutoff It can comfortably seat five and still have 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space for all of your belongings The Orlando Toyota Camry Hybrid also showcases an available leather-trimmed interior with plush comfort features like heated front seats and dual zone automatic climate control An integrated backup camera with projected path gives you an additional set of eyes Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control makes highway driving a breeze 4 different drive modes help you to tailor your drive time to your needs - choose between Sport, Normal, Eco, and EV Keep your eyes on the road with a 10" color head up display And more. And the best news yet? You can test drive it today, so you can get behind the wheel and see if it suits you. Test drive this Orlando Toyota hybrid today! Make it happen - go green in your day-to-day drive time starting today! Visit Toyota of Orlando to see if the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid is the right green car for you. We're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and you can call to schedule your appointment at (407) 298-4500.

hybrid cars for sale

2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid voted best hybrid car of the year

Are you trying to find an easy way to make your day-to-day life a little bit more eco-friendly? While there are lots of small ways to make big changes, one of the biggest could be the car you drive. Enter our Orlando Toyota hybrids - these green cars cut down on emissions, use a lot less gasoline than traditional cars, and look cool while doing it. Introducing a hybrid car into your daily drive time is an easy way to make your life a lot more environmentally friendly, and we're here to help you do it with the hybrid car that was voted the BEST of 2020 by U.S. & World Report News... the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid. What does the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid have to offer? The 2020 Toyota Camry is basically a hybrid version of its best-selling sibling, the Orlando Toyota Camry. This means you're getting the best of both worlds, because you'll get the green performance and still have the classic style, dependability, and top-of-the-line features that drivers of the original model have come to know and love. And not only will you feel good about your drive time, you'll also save money on gas - this new Toyota hybrid gets an estimated 51/53 mpg. Here are some of the other highlights we love about this Orlando green car! It has a starting MSRP of just $28,430, making it an affordable hybrid option It comes in 10 different paint colors with hues ranging from Supersonic Red to Wind Chill Pearl There are three models available to choose from - the LE, SE, and XLE It boasts tech features like Apple Car Play, Android Auto, Toyota + Alexa, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa, as well as Sirius XM Satellite Radio, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Bluetooth, and more You'll get peace of mind thanks to safety tech like the Star Safety System, an Advanced Airbag System, Toyota Safety Sense P, a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Hill Start Assist Control, and automatic engine shutoff It can comfortably seat five and still have 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space for all of your belongings The Orlando Toyota Camry Hybrid also showcases an available leather-trimmed interior with plush comfort features like heated front seats and dual zone automatic climate control An integrated backup camera with projected path gives you an additional set of eyes Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control makes highway driving a breeze 4 different drive modes help you to tailor your drive time to your needs - choose between Sport, Normal, Eco, and EV Keep your eyes on the road with a 10" color head up display And more. And the best news yet? You can test drive it today, so you can get behind the wheel and see if it suits you. Test drive this Orlando Toyota hybrid today! Make it happen - go green in your day-to-day drive time starting today! Visit Toyota of Orlando to see if the 2020 Toyota Camry Hybrid is the right green car for you. We're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and you can call to schedule your appointment at (407) 298-4500.

Toyota Collision Center tips

What you should know about auto glass repair

When you think about it, your auto glass does a lot for your drive time. It keeps cold (or warm) air in, rain and bugs out, and lets you safely navigate the road without debris and dirt getting into the cabin of your Orlando Toyota. When it gets damaged, it may not seem like that big of a deal, but it can quickly spiral into expensive auto repairs if you're not careful. Toyota of Orlando's body shop is here to give you the ins and outs of auto glass and the repairs that may come along with it. What causes you to need auto glass repair? Unfortunately, it's pretty easy to get cracks, chips, and dings in your auto glass (especially if you drive on I-4). All it takes is one piece of debris flying up and that gut-wrenching popping noise, and you've got damage to your windshield or windows that means either repairs or replacement. The most common types of damage are chips and cracks. Basically, chips damage the top layer of the glass and cause imperfections in it, which weakens its structure. From there on out, cracks can occur and spiderweb out from the center with the right pressure and motion. This majorly weakens your auto glass, putting you and your passengers at risk. How do you know if you need a repair or replacement? The general rule of thumb is that if the ding is smaller than a quarter and doesn't have cracks extending from it, you can opt for a repair. However, if it's larger than that or has cracking extending from its edges, you may need a windshield replacement (or if you just don't want to deal with a cosmetic imperfection in the glass). Luckily for us, in the state of Florida you're entitled to auto glass replacement FOR FREE under your car insurance policy. You should make a claim immediately and report the damage to your insurance company; they can set it up to where you get your auto glass repaired or replaced so you can hit the road safely again. Never put off making the claim - the damage will just likely get worse as you continue to drive and can put you and everyone in your car in danger. Our Orlando Toyota Certified Collision Center can also help with auto glass repair - our trained techs are ready to get you back on the road in no time with minimal time spent in the shop (and minimal cost if your state's insurance doesn't cover it for some reason). If it doesn't, make sure you check your policy before scheduling repairs so there are no surprises. It can cost upwards of $100 to repair a chip and $400 to repair a crack. Call Toyota of Orlando with all of your auto glass needs Have questions? Need more information? Call us today at (407) 298-6006. Our Orlando body shop techs are here and ready to help. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

Toyota Collision Center tips

What you should know about auto glass repair

When you think about it, your auto glass does a lot for your drive time. It keeps cold (or warm) air in, rain and bugs out, and lets you safely navigate the road without debris and dirt getting into the cabin of your Orlando Toyota. When it gets damaged, it may not seem like that big of a deal, but it can quickly spiral into expensive auto repairs if you're not careful. Toyota of Orlando's body shop is here to give you the ins and outs of auto glass and the repairs that may come along with it. What causes you to need auto glass repair? Unfortunately, it's pretty easy to get cracks, chips, and dings in your auto glass (especially if you drive on I-4). All it takes is one piece of debris flying up and that gut-wrenching popping noise, and you've got damage to your windshield or windows that means either repairs or replacement. The most common types of damage are chips and cracks. Basically, chips damage the top layer of the glass and cause imperfections in it, which weakens its structure. From there on out, cracks can occur and spiderweb out from the center with the right pressure and motion. This majorly weakens your auto glass, putting you and your passengers at risk. How do you know if you need a repair or replacement? The general rule of thumb is that if the ding is smaller than a quarter and doesn't have cracks extending from it, you can opt for a repair. However, if it's larger than that or has cracking extending from its edges, you may need a windshield replacement (or if you just don't want to deal with a cosmetic imperfection in the glass). Luckily for us, in the state of Florida you're entitled to auto glass replacement FOR FREE under your car insurance policy. You should make a claim immediately and report the damage to your insurance company; they can set it up to where you get your auto glass repaired or replaced so you can hit the road safely again. Never put off making the claim - the damage will just likely get worse as you continue to drive and can put you and everyone in your car in danger. Our Orlando Toyota Certified Collision Center can also help with auto glass repair - our trained techs are ready to get you back on the road in no time with minimal time spent in the shop (and minimal cost if your state's insurance doesn't cover it for some reason). If it doesn't, make sure you check your policy before scheduling repairs so there are no surprises. It can cost upwards of $100 to repair a chip and $400 to repair a crack. Call Toyota of Orlando with all of your auto glass needs Have questions? Need more information? Call us today at (407) 298-6006. Our Orlando body shop techs are here and ready to help. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

new Toyota in Orlando FL

Toyota news for the week of June 1

Welcome to June (and here's to a better month than May, right?)! Toyota of Orlando is here to give you the latest and greatest news in the automotive world with a roundup of Toyota headlines and the details surrounding them. From new GR models to upcoming hybrids, we've got all the info you need. Read on! The latest new Toyota news updates bring updated AND new models to market The once-retired Toyota Venza will be making its way back onto the market for 2021! Toyota is reviving this sleek crossover in a hybrid model, offering yet another go-green solution for drivers who want something a little bit more sophisticated than a hatchback. A brand-new Toyota GR86 may be hitting the streets in the summer of 2021, offering yet another Gazoo Racing option to the world. Similarly to the GR Supra, this new Toyota 86 will have a new platform, Gazoo Racing branding and badging, and will have a Subaru twin. Additionally, it supposedly will offer 255 horsepower (which is 50 more hp than the current model) and offer a turbocharger for extra get-up-and-go. The new generation of the Orlando Toyota Tundra is coming, and with it bringing some pretty big updates. One notable change is a brand-new twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine option to replace the current V8 engine under the hood, as well as a new chassis built on the TNGA-F platform. The Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser may be stepping back from the world of luxury in its upcoming iterations. Rumor has it Toyota will be stripping the plush SUV of its creature comforts (within reason, of course) and streamlining it so it reverts back to more of an off-road focus. Remember, the original Toyota Land Cruiser was built for tough terrain and had none of the luxury features it showcases today. The new Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Sequoia will be part of all-new generations come 2022 - according to rumors, both will be based on the new Toyota Tundra headed our way. The swagger wagon (new Toyota Sienna, as most people refer to it) is getting an upgrade AND going greener for the next model that's likely to be at Toyota of Orlando this fall. Not only will it be redesigned, but it'll also offer new technology AND be a hybrid model only. We've seen the much-loved Toyota Corolla as both a sedan and a hatchback, but if speculation is right, a new Toyota Corolla crossover could be headed our way. It would get here in the latter half of 2021, and we think this rumor might go hand-in-hand with the rumor of a new Toyota Corolla wagon. Supposedly, Toyota recently patented the name "Toyota BZ" and people think it COULD be the name that will be used for the Toyota Corolla Touring, a wagon that currently exists in other countries. We're leaning toward a crossover, but we'll keep you posted! Shop for your new Toyota today We've got lots of options coming our way, but we've also got lots of options on our lot at Toyota of Orlando! See them all in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also call us to learn more about our specials and inventory at (407) 298-4500.

new Toyota in Orlando FL

Toyota news for the week of June 1

Welcome to June (and here's to a better month than May, right?)! Toyota of Orlando is here to give you the latest and greatest news in the automotive world with a roundup of Toyota headlines and the details surrounding them. From new GR models to upcoming hybrids, we've got all the info you need. Read on! The latest new Toyota news updates bring updated AND new models to market The once-retired Toyota Venza will be making its way back onto the market for 2021! Toyota is reviving this sleek crossover in a hybrid model, offering yet another go-green solution for drivers who want something a little bit more sophisticated than a hatchback. A brand-new Toyota GR86 may be hitting the streets in the summer of 2021, offering yet another Gazoo Racing option to the world. Similarly to the GR Supra, this new Toyota 86 will have a new platform, Gazoo Racing branding and badging, and will have a Subaru twin. Additionally, it supposedly will offer 255 horsepower (which is 50 more hp than the current model) and offer a turbocharger for extra get-up-and-go. The new generation of the Orlando Toyota Tundra is coming, and with it bringing some pretty big updates. One notable change is a brand-new twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine option to replace the current V8 engine under the hood, as well as a new chassis built on the TNGA-F platform. The Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser may be stepping back from the world of luxury in its upcoming iterations. Rumor has it Toyota will be stripping the plush SUV of its creature comforts (within reason, of course) and streamlining it so it reverts back to more of an off-road focus. Remember, the original Toyota Land Cruiser was built for tough terrain and had none of the luxury features it showcases today. The new Toyota 4Runner and Toyota Sequoia will be part of all-new generations come 2022 - according to rumors, both will be based on the new Toyota Tundra headed our way. The swagger wagon (new Toyota Sienna, as most people refer to it) is getting an upgrade AND going greener for the next model that's likely to be at Toyota of Orlando this fall. Not only will it be redesigned, but it'll also offer new technology AND be a hybrid model only. We've seen the much-loved Toyota Corolla as both a sedan and a hatchback, but if speculation is right, a new Toyota Corolla crossover could be headed our way. It would get here in the latter half of 2021, and we think this rumor might go hand-in-hand with the rumor of a new Toyota Corolla wagon. Supposedly, Toyota recently patented the name "Toyota BZ" and people think it COULD be the name that will be used for the Toyota Corolla Touring, a wagon that currently exists in other countries. We're leaning toward a crossover, but we'll keep you posted! Shop for your new Toyota today We've got lots of options coming our way, but we've also got lots of options on our lot at Toyota of Orlando! See them all in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also call us to learn more about our specials and inventory at (407) 298-4500.

what is ceramic coating for cars

Should you consider ceramic coating for your car?

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

what is ceramic coating for cars

Should you consider ceramic coating for your car?

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

salvage car

Tips for spotting flood damage on a used car

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

salvage car

Tips for spotting flood damage on a used car

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

DIY car care tips

Get rid of car paint damage DIY style

Is the exterior of your car looking a little worse for the wear? Whether a branch fell and scratched the hood or someone got a little too friendly with their shopping car in the parking lot, car paint damage happens. It can leave your car looking less-than-new and over time, actually lead to rust damage (which is expensive and time-consuming to fix). Toyota of Orlando is here with tips to help you combat car paint damage at home (unless you're not feeling confident, in which case our Toyota Collision Center has got you covered!). Toyota of Orlando's paint for getting rid of scratches First things first - before you actually get to work, you need to figure out how deep the scratch is and if you're capable of handling it from home. Your car paint has several layers that give it both durability and shine, including the base body panel coat, a primer coat, clay bar wax, the actual body paint coat, and then a clear coat to protect it and give it shine. Here's how to tell how deep that scratch actually is: Clear coat scratches are visible but fade when your car gets wet and then reappear when it dries. A body coat scratch won't fade but actually looks white inside the scratch. A base body panel or primer scratch (the deepest) is gray or black in color. Once you've determined what type of car paint damage you have and whether or not you feel comfortable fixing it, it's time to gather supplies. For this DIY auto repair, you'll need a few clean microfiber cloths, sandpaper, fine scratch polish, soapy water, and a power polisher. Repair your car paint damage like a pro Step 1: Clean the area where the car paint damage is with the soapy water and dry it with a microfiber cloth. This will help prevent you from polishing or rubbing sand or grit into the paint, damaging it further. Then, tape the area off. This will help you remember the exact area you should be working in. Step 2: Begin sanding. You'll want to be careful - our Orlando Toyota collision center recommends starting with a 3000 fine grit sandpaper (5000 will also be OK) and wrapping a dish sponge in the paper so you avoid pressure points from your fingertips showing up in your sanding. Apply soapy water to the area you're going to sand and get started. You should use medium pressure and sand until the area has a hazy look and you can no longer see the scratch. Step 3: Get polishing and waxing. If you can't see the scratch anymore, then it's time to move to the next step. Continue with a little bit of sanding - this time you want to sand around the scratch and existing sanded area to add a little feathering to the hazy area (this is what the 5000 fine grit sandpaper is for). Next, take some polish on a microfiber rag and apply it to the hazy area. This will help sand down the area further and restore shine. Finally, apply clay bar wax to the area to finish the process and get it looking like-new again. Need more tips or have major car paint damage that needs to be repaired? Call us - we're ready to help make it happen. Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

DIY car care tips

Get rid of car paint damage DIY style

Is the exterior of your car looking a little worse for the wear? Whether a branch fell and scratched the hood or someone got a little too friendly with their shopping car in the parking lot, car paint damage happens. It can leave your car looking less-than-new and over time, actually lead to rust damage (which is expensive and time-consuming to fix). Toyota of Orlando is here with tips to help you combat car paint damage at home (unless you're not feeling confident, in which case our Toyota Collision Center has got you covered!). Toyota of Orlando's paint for getting rid of scratches First things first - before you actually get to work, you need to figure out how deep the scratch is and if you're capable of handling it from home. Your car paint has several layers that give it both durability and shine, including the base body panel coat, a primer coat, clay bar wax, the actual body paint coat, and then a clear coat to protect it and give it shine. Here's how to tell how deep that scratch actually is: Clear coat scratches are visible but fade when your car gets wet and then reappear when it dries. A body coat scratch won't fade but actually looks white inside the scratch. A base body panel or primer scratch (the deepest) is gray or black in color. Once you've determined what type of car paint damage you have and whether or not you feel comfortable fixing it, it's time to gather supplies. For this DIY auto repair, you'll need a few clean microfiber cloths, sandpaper, fine scratch polish, soapy water, and a power polisher. Repair your car paint damage like a pro Step 1: Clean the area where the car paint damage is with the soapy water and dry it with a microfiber cloth. This will help prevent you from polishing or rubbing sand or grit into the paint, damaging it further. Then, tape the area off. This will help you remember the exact area you should be working in. Step 2: Begin sanding. You'll want to be careful - our Orlando Toyota collision center recommends starting with a 3000 fine grit sandpaper (5000 will also be OK) and wrapping a dish sponge in the paper so you avoid pressure points from your fingertips showing up in your sanding. Apply soapy water to the area you're going to sand and get started. You should use medium pressure and sand until the area has a hazy look and you can no longer see the scratch. Step 3: Get polishing and waxing. If you can't see the scratch anymore, then it's time to move to the next step. Continue with a little bit of sanding - this time you want to sand around the scratch and existing sanded area to add a little feathering to the hazy area (this is what the 5000 fine grit sandpaper is for). Next, take some polish on a microfiber rag and apply it to the hazy area. This will help sand down the area further and restore shine. Finally, apply clay bar wax to the area to finish the process and get it looking like-new again. Need more tips or have major car paint damage that needs to be repaired? Call us - we're ready to help make it happen. Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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