We all know that getting into a car accident is stressful – but did you know if you drive a hybrid car, there are a few more things you need to be aware of? Hybrid powertrains are unique systems that use complex electronics and high-voltage batteries to power your vehicle, so they require a few pieces of special care after a collision. Toyota of Orlando is “Making It Simple™” – check out our guide on what to do after a car accident if you drive a hybrid.

What to do after a car accident in a hybrid car specifically

Remember, we said that hybrid cars like our Toyota of Orlando options use high-voltage batteries. They can become dangerous after a crash, so make sure you never touch any cables or components that have high-voltage warnings if you’re checking out your car. Further, if you see smoke, leaking fluids, or hear odd noises (like hissing or gurgling) coming from your hybrid car battery, move away from the area and wait for emergency responders. You should also remember:

• Hybrid powertrains are quiet – your car may be on even if you don’t hear the engine. Check your dashboard lights to ensure the car is off once you’re parked in a safe place, and don’t forget to set your parking brake.
• Let emergency responders and Orlando tow companies know that you’re driving a hybrid when you contact them.
• Don’t try to disconnect the battery yourself. Only trained professionals and responders should attempt to disconnect hybrid car batteries – you could injure yourself or damage your car.
• Don’t try to tow your hybrid car yourself. Some hybrids need to be towed on flatbeds (rather than with their rear wheels touching the ground) to prevent damage to your hybrid system and also reduce shock risk.

 

What to watch for after an accident in hybrid cars

What should you look out for after a car accident in a hybrid?

• Warning lights and error messages. Be vigilant in watching your dash – if you see any new lights or messages pop up, let our Orlando Toyota auto service center know ASAP so they can get under the hood and look around.
• Odd smells, sounds, or feelings of heat. If you notice a weird smell (like chemicals), hissing noises, or heat coming from the battery, you need to contact Toyota of Orlando ASAP. Don’t try to drive the car – move away from it to protect your safety.
• Delayed symptoms like smoke. If you see smoke coming from your hybrid car battery after a car accident, it may have been damaged and you need to seek professional help as soon as you possibly can.

What to do after a car accident with hybrids and insurance

What’s the insurance process like after a collision if you drive an Orlando Toyota hybrid? Here are some things to keep in mind.

• You should ask for a detailed inspection – you’ll want them to take special care with the battery, the cooling system, and all electrical components.
• Know that repair costs may be higher – hybrid batteries and electronics may cost more to fix than in a typical gas car.
• Save all paperwork – receipts, estimates, and communications with your insurance company for your car’s records.

Now you know how to handle what to do after a car accident in an Orlando Toyota hybrid – let’s brush up on a few other car accident preparedness tips so you know how to react.

Step 1: Make sure everyone is safe.

Your first step after a hybrid car accident is to see if anyone is hurt – check yourself and all of your passengers. Don’t move anyone unless there’s immediate danger (like a fire), and call 911 immediately. Here are a few more tips:

• Move your car if you can – you want to get off the road and out of the way of traffic. Once you’re safely parked, turn your hazard lights on.
• If you can’t move your car, you should look for a safe spot on the side of the road to stand.

Step #2: Involve emergency responders.

It’s important to call 911 after a car accident, even a minor one – you’ll want an accident report from the police for your insurance company. Further, if anyone is injured, you want their care to be noted and documented right away. Also, tell emergency responders that your car is a hybrid so they know what to be aware of when they arrive at the scene.

Step #3: Document everything.

Take pictures and videos of everything – all of the vehicles involved in the accident, the position of the cars, the road conditions, and any road signs or warning signs on the Orlando road you’re on. Be sure to get up close and personal with the damage, taking plenty of photos and videos to document it. You should also:

• Exchange information with the other driver. Get their name and contact info, their insurance details, and the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle.
• Talk to any witnesses. You should get their contact information in case they’re needed for insurance purposes or a court case.

Step #4: Don’t admit fault.

You shouldn’t apologize or admit blame – just stick to the facts when talking to the police and other drivers. Police will be able to determine who is at fault from the facts and document the incident accordingly.

Step #5: Call your insurance company.

You should report the car accident as soon as possible – call your insurance company to get the claim started. Again, stick with the facts, give them the Orlando police report, and let them do their job.

Call Toyota of Orlando for help after an accident

If you need help after a car accident – hybrid car or not – we’re here! Toyota of Orlando is ready and waiting to assist you and get you safely back on the road. Contact our Toyota Collision Center today at (407) 298-6006 or stop by 3575 Vineland Road to see us.

Posted in Toyota of Orlando Body Shop | No Comments »

When was the last time you brought your car in for brake service? If you’re still buffering, trying to think of the last time you came to our Orlando Toyota service center, you may be due for some car care. Today we’re taking a closer look at exactly what goes on during brake service so you can rest assured that not only is your car in the best hands, it’s also getting exactly what it needs to keep you safe on the road.

What steps will we take to keep your car brakes in the best shape possible?

Your car brakes are absolutely integral to the performance. After all, they’re what slows and stops your vehicle. It’s critical that you keep them in the best shape possible, which is why it’s critical to stay on top of brake service. Let’s take a deep dive into exactly what happens when you bring your Orlando Toyota in for this type of car maintenance appointment.

#1: We inspect the rotors and brake pads. The first thing our Toyota of Orlando service techs will do when you bring your car in for brake service is inspect the brake pads and rotors to assess their condition. Remember, when you hit the brakes, your brake pads rub against the rotors to slow your vehicle. If they get too thin, it can affect performance and also damage your rotors. Our techs will check their condition and decide if they need to be replaced or not, as well as check your rotors.

 

#2: We may flush the brake fluid. We won’t flush your brake fluid every time, but this part of brake service is usually necessary every few years OR if you have a leak in the lines. Brake lines are an essential part of your braking system and flushing them helps prevent rust or other buildup inside of them so you always have maximum stopping power.

#3: We may bleed the brake line. Flushing the brake lines helps keep things in top condition, but bleeding them takes things a step further. Over time, oxygen gets into the lines and can interfere with their ability to bring your car to a stop. Bleeding the lines gets rid of this excess air. You should only need this brake service occasionally.

#4:  We may replace or upgrade parts as needed. Everything wears out eventually, right? As your car parts go through routine wear and tear, they may need to be replaced for functionality or to provide a better and more efficient performance. This applies to your brake system; over time, you will need new brake pads, new rotors, etc. to ensure your car is always ready to hit the road.

Schedule brake service at Toyota of Orlando today

Have more questions or think you need brake service in Orlando? Call us! Our Orlando auto service center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we’re conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. Don’t forget to ask about our brake service specials before you come in!

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

You want your car brakes to be in the best condition possible at all times – after all, they’re the car part that brings you to a safe stop when you need it most. That’s why it’s critical that you stay on top of brake service at Toyota of Orlando AND be able to realize when your braking system is having issues. The good news is our techs are here to help – today we’re talking some of the most common car brake issues and what they mean. Read on!

5 common car brake issues

Issue: Your car shudders or shakes when you brake. 

If you hit the brakes and your Orlando Toyota shudders or shakes, it means there’s an issue with your rotors. It could be that they’re damaged from excessive heat (like when your brake pads get too thin), or that they have buildup on the surface that’s giving them a warped shape. Either way, our auto service techs can either resurface or clean them so it’s smooth sailing when you use your car brakes.

Issue: Your pedal “sinks” to the floor when you’re holding it. 

Does your pedal seem to sink down to the floor when you’re holding it at a stoplight? This car brake issue can indicate that your brake pressure is low and you have an issue with your master cylinder. It could be something as small as a seal that needs to be replaced or a leak somewhere, but it’s worth letting our Orlando auto service techs take a look under the hood.

Issue: Your brake pedal feels soft. 

Does it feel like your brakes are soft or squishy when you press them? This can be indicative of several different issues, including a brake fluid leak, a problem with the master cylinder, a blown brake line, a bad wheel bearing, and more. Let our Orlando car brake specialists pinpoint the issue to save you time and money and get you back out on the road as quickly as possible.

 

 

Issue: Your brake pedal is harder to push than usual. 

If you feel like you have to press the brake pedal much harder than you usually do to get your car to slow or stop, then you have a problem. Typically this issue stems from things like overworn brake pads, a problem with a vacuum hose, a seized up caliper, or a bad power booster. None of these are things you can usually fix DIY style, so visit Toyota of Orlando’s service center.

Issue: Your brake pedal won’t stop braking. 

Does it feel like your brake pedal is still braking even after you release it? If your brakes aren’t disengaging, it means you might have a problem with your calipers seizing, a clog in the master cylinder, a pinched brake line, or a problem with the parking brake cable.

Let Toyota of Orlando get you back on the road today

Regardless of what car brake issues you’re having, we’ve got you covered. Come visit us! Toyota of Orlando’s auto service center is open seven days a week for your convenience at 3575 Vineland Road. Call us at (407) 298-4500 to schedule your appointment!

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Have you scheduled brake service for your car lately? Most people don’t put this particular type of Orlando auto service at the top of their to-do list when it comes to caring for their car. Brake service, however, is just as essential as an oil change or tire rotation. After all, your brakes are what bring you and your vehicle to a safe stop when it matters most. Toyota of Orlando offers affordable brake service to keep you safe out on the road, and we’re here to tell you what to expect when you schedule this important car maintenance.

Toyota of Orlando explains your car brake system

Before we can explain what brake service actually consists of, it’s probably best if we refresh your memory in terms of what’s actually in your car braking system. Here are the main components that will be inspected, serviced, and repaired if necessary:

• Brake pads: Your brake pads are held in place against your rotors. When you press the brake pedal, they create the friction necessary to bring your vehicle to a stop.
• Calipers: Your calipers are metal pieces that actually hold your brake pads in place against the rotors and when you press the brake pedal, they push the brake pads firmly against the rotors to create the aforementioned necessary friction.
• Rotors: Your rotors are metal discs that work with the brake pads to make friction and slow/stop your car.
• Brake lines + fluid: Your brake lines connect your brake pedal to the rest of your brake system, and brake fluid keeps the entire system up and running when it matters most.

What happens during brake service?

So, what exactly happens when you schedule brake service at our Orlando Toyota service center? Here’s what you can expect after you drop your car off.

• First, our Orlando car care techs will do a thorough inspection of your entire brake system to look for any existing OR developing issues that could cause trouble.
• Next, they’ll check your brake pads. If they’re in good shape, they get checked off the list. If they’re too thin or worn down, they’ll be replaced with a fresh set.
• Next up are the calipers. Our Orlando brake service techs will check then for rust and debris and if necessary, sand them down. If they’re good to go, our techs will lubricate them and call it a day.
• Then they’ll check your rotors to ensure they’re in good condition and haven’t been worn down due to bad brake pads.
• Finally, our techs will check your brake lines to ensure they aren’t worn or leaking, and make sure you have enough clean brake fluid. If there’s an issue, they may do a brake fluid flush.

And then you’re back on the road and ready to go.

 

Have questions? Want to schedule brake service at our Orlando auto service center? You can call us today at (407) 298-4500 or schedule online. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

When was the last time you brought your car in for brake service at our Orlando Toyota service center? If you can’t remember, it may be time to let our techs take a peek under the hood. However, if you’re already on a routine brake service schedule then you should be good to go unless something goes amiss. That’s where we come in – Toyota of Orlando is here to give you 6 warnings signs that you should never ignore. Let’s get started!

When should you be worried about your brakes?

Sign #1: You smell a weird smell, like burning carpet, when you brake. Any out-of-the-ordinary smells should never be ignored, but if you smell an odd odor that kind of reminds you of burning carpet when you hit the brakes, then it may mean your brakes are overheated (which is never good). If they can’t cool off, you run the risk of brake failure. Bring your car in to have it checked!

Sign #2: You hear your brakes screeching or squealing when you use them. Squealing or screeching noises are usually due to the fact that you need new brake pads – brakes have a set of indicators built into them and they emit this noise when your brake pads are too thin so you know it’s time for brake service. Don’t ignore it – your rotors can be damaged if your brake pads are too thin, and this can be costly to fix.

Sign #3: You have to press harder than usual to come to a stop. Feel like you have to press harder than usual to bring your car to a stop? This can indicate a big problem and imminent brake failure (and it’s also very unsafe when you’re driving). Have our Orlando auto service techs check it out for you.

Sign #4: You feel vibrations when you press the brakes. If you feel like your car is vibrating, shaking, or shuddering when you brake, then your rotors may be damaged due to brake pad issues. You’ll need to have this fixed immediately so bring your car in.

Know when it’s time to schedule Orlando auto repairs for this very important part

Sign #5: Your car is pulling to one side when you slow or stop. If your car seems to pull itself to one side when you brake then you may have an issue with a brake caliper malfunctioning or a leaky brake hose not getting brake fluid where it needs to go. Don’t ignore this sensation.

Sign #6: Your brake service light is on in the dashboard. This one is pretty obvious – if this light is illuminated in your dash, then you have a problem with something in your brake system! Don’t ignore it and don’t let it go too long – get your car in for Orlando auto service as soon as you can to avoid expensive and time-consuming repairs.

 

Feel like you may have an issue on your hands? Come on down to Toyota of Orlando’s auto service center! We’re open seven days a week and you can drop by 3575 Vineland Road OR call (407) 298-0001 to schedule your appointment and learn more about our service specials today.

 

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Have you ever been in the driver’s seat when brake failure happens? It can be downright terrifying. After all, being able to bring your car to a quick and efficient stop is an integral part of drive time safety. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you prevent this scary situation and also give you tips on how to react if you should someday face brake failure in your vehicle.

Orlando auto service can save your brakes

There are two main ways to prevent brake failure, and they’re fairly simple (and affordable).

1. Pay attention to how your car is handling. Do your brakes seem “mushy” or non-responsive when you hit them? You should be able to tap them and get a reaction out of your vehicle. If you’re finding that you have to press hard to bring your car to a safe stop, it’s time to schedule Orlando brake service to have our techs check them out and see how they can tune them up again.
2. Get routine auto service. It’s important to change out your brake pads when the time calls for it, check brake fluid, inspect rotors, and make sure the entire braking system is in excellent shape. When you slack on car care, your performance will suffer accordingly… and potentially lead to brake failure.

How to handle brake failure

So, what if you do all of this and you still find yourself in this dangerous situation? Here are some Orlando Toyota tips to help you bring your car safely to a stop.

• Use your horn. Once you’ve realized your brakes have failed, immediately use your horn to alert other motorists that you’re headed in their direction and that you’re not able to slow your car. This will help them get out of the way and reduce your chances of a collision.
• Downshift. In a manual car, you can achieve this by using the stick. In an automatic, taking your foot off the gas will ease the RPMs and your car should automatically shift to a lower gear. Either way, it helps slow your vehicle down.
• Try pumping the brakes. 3-4 hard pumps may switch your brakes back into action if you don’t have an ABS system in your vehicle.
• Use your emergency brake but BE CAREFUL. If you’re traveling at a high speed or your brake is powerful, it can cause you to skid. Bottom line, don’t yank it or slam it – gently pull or push (depending on what type of e-brake you have) to help slow your car.
• Pull off to the side of the road to get out of the way of other motorists and bring your car to a complete stop. DO NOT try to drive it again – call a tow truck and get it into Toyota of Orlando’s service center.

And remember, if you’re experiencing brake failure you should never:

• Turn your car off – this will get rid of power steering and increase the hazard in your situation.
• Shift to neutral – this will keep your car from downshifting and slowing. You’ll keep coasting at a high speed.

 

Have questions or need to schedule Orlando brake service? Call us today! We’re open seven days a week for your convenience at (407) 298-0001.

 

 

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Your car brakes play a critical role in your vehicle’s performance. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you care for them regularly. Keeping them in top shape helps maintain your safety and the safety of everyone on the road. Our Orlando Toyota service techs recommend replacing worn-out brake components and maintaining your brake fluid levels. But it’s also crucial to monitor parts like your brake rotors and brake calipers, which are key to your car’s overall braking efficiency.

While it might seem overwhelming to keep track of all these parts, we’ve got good news! Our Toyota of Orlando service center is here to take care of the necessary maintenance and repairs. And to help you better understand how your braking system works and why regular maintenance is so important, we’ve created this detailed guide to car brakes. Let’s take a closer look at the main types of car brakes and the key components that keep you safe behind the wheel. We’re “Making It Simple™”!

 

What Are the Main Types of Car Brakes?

There are several different car brakes systems that vehicles use, but the two most common are disc brakes and drum brakes. Let’s dive into each type and explore how they work with our expert Orlando Toyota service techs.

1) Disc Brakes: The Most Common Braking System

Disc brakes are the most popular type of braking system in modern Toyotas. These car brakes use a variety of brake components to bring your car to a stop. The system includes brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, and brake fluid. Here’s how they work:

• When you step on the brake pedal, brake fluid is pushed through a hydraulic system to the brake calipers.
• The brake calipers are activated, pushing the brake pads against the brake rotors. These are large metal discs located near the wheels.
• The friction between the brake pads and brake rotors slows the rotation of the wheels. This brings your car to a stop.

One of the best advantages of this type of car brakes is that they perform well in a variety of conditions. Since the brake rotors are exposed to the elements, they can dissipate heat better. They cool off faster than other types of brakes, which means a lower risk of overheating. They also dry out quickly in wet conditions, which is important for braking in rainy or snowy weather. This means you can rely on your disc brakes to give you consistent stopping power every time you drive. Want to check them out? You can experience them in person at Toyota of Orlando.

2) Drum Brakes: An Older, Less Common Type of Car Brakes

While disc brakes are the standard in most cars, drum brakes are still found in some older or budget-friendly cars. Unlike disc brakes, this type of car brakes use a different design and mechanism. Instead of a metal disc, drum brakes have a drum that rotates along with the wheel. Inside the drum, brake “shoes” are pressed against the interior of the drum to create friction and slow your car down.

Why is this type of car brakes becoming less common? The main drawbacks of drum brakes are that they don’t handle heat as well as disc brakes. They can also suffer from corrosion. The drum design can actually trap water, which leads to rust and reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, drum brakes are less effective at dissipating heat. Overheating can cause them to lose their stopping power. This makes them a less reliable choice for modern cars, especially those that drive in heavy traffic or hot weather (like here in Orlando).

3) Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): Better Safety When You Need It

Anti-lock brakes, also known as ABS brakes, are not a type of car brakes technically. Instead, they’re a safety feature in your car’s braking system. They prevent the wheels from locking up during emergency braking situations (like when you slam on the brakes). Without ABS, if you slam on the brakes too hard, the wheels could lock. This can cause your car to skid and you to lose control. With ABS, the braking system rapidly pulses the brake pressure to each wheel. This helps you maintain traction and prevent skidding.

Here’s how ABS works according to our Toyota of Orlando team:

• When you apply the brakes hard, sensors in the ABS system monitor how fast each wheel is turning.
• If the system detects that one or more wheels are about to lock up, it reduces the brake pressure momentarily. It then reapplies it, which allows the wheels to keep turning.
• This stop-and-go process helps you maintain better control of your car and regain traction, especially on slippery roads.

ABS is a big help in bad weather conditions where roads are slick and you need more distance to stop safely. The ABS car brakes system keeps you safer and gives you traction when you need it most.

4) Emergency Car Brakes: A Backup for Safety

Your emergency brake, which you might also call the parking brake, is an essential safety feature in your vehicle. It keeps your car in place when you’re parked, especially on hills. The emergency brake is usually activated with a hand lever, foot pedal, or button.  It’s connected to the main brake system by a cable. This brake doesn’t rely on hydraulic pressure like the primary braking system, but it still gives you stopping power when you need it.

The emergency brake serves another important function –  it’s a backup if your main car brakes fail. If you have a brake failure while driving, you can pull the emergency brake to slow the car down gradually and come to a safe stop. While the emergency brake isn’t meant for regular use, it’s an important safety tool that ensures you can stop your car in an emergency. Our Orlando Toyota specialists recommend knowing where it is and how to use it in case you need it.

Why You Need Car Brakes Service at Toyota of Orlando

Keeping your car brakes in top shape requires regular brake service. At Toyota of Orlando, we recommend car care to make sure your brake components—like brake pads, brake rotors, and brake calipers—are all in good condition. Here’s a closer look at why these parts matter.

Brake Pads: These pads create friction against the brake rotors to slow your car down. Over time, they can wear out, reducing your ability to stop effectively. If you hear squealing or grinding noises when braking,  your brake pads need replacing. We offer affordable brake pad service at Toyota of Orlando, so book it before your brake system gets damaged.

Brake Rotors: The brake rotors are the metal discs that work with the brake pads to stop your car. Over time, brake rotors can become warped or scored from friction. If this happens, you might feel vibrations or hear weird noises when you’re braking. Have our Orlando Toyota service team regularly check your rotors to ensure they’re in good shape.

Brake Calipers: The brake calipers hold the brake pads in place and apply pressure to the brake rotors. If the calipers become damaged or fail, your car won’t be able to stop properly. Make sure to have them checked regularly at our Orlando auto service center to avoid unexpected issues.

Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is a critical component of your car brakes. It transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture, which reduces its effectiveness. Regular fluid checks and flushes can help ensure your braking system functions at its best.

Visit Toyota of Orlando for Car Brakes Service Today

If you’ve noticed any issues with your car brakes, like worn-out brake rotors, low brake fluid, or malfunctioning brake calipers, visit Toyota of Orlando for a brake inspection today. We can also make sure your brakes are in top-notch shape all the time! Our expert techs are here to provide every brake service, from replacing brake pads to full brake repairs. We also offer brake fluid flushes and rotor resurfacing to ensure your vehicle’s brakes are ready to stop when you are.

Call us at (407) 298-4500 or visit us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4, across from the Millenia Mall. Our service department is open seven days a week, and we’re always ready to help keep you safe on the road!

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Having the word “auto repair” on your horizon can lead to a bad case of nerves – and we get it. How much will it cost to fix your car? How long will it take? Today we’re here to talk the worst – the worst auto repairs to deal with, that is. However, we’re not just telling you how much each of them sucks; we’re also here to tell you how to avoid them. Here’s what our Orlando auto service experts have to say about the matter!

9 of the worst auto repairs to have to deal with and how to fix them

#1: Seized engine from lack of oil 

This auto repair is necessary when – due to running out of oil – your engine has no lubrication, gets too hot inside, and all of the parts basically melt and meld together into one glob of metal. There’s no way to fix this, unfortunately, which means you basically have to call it a loss and buy a new car.

The fix: Make sure you stay on top of your routine oil changes and check the level and condition of your oil every few weeks.

#2: Failed transmission 

A failed transmission can happen for multiple reasons, including software problems, old age, overheating, or bad driving habits. The fix could be small and inexpensive or large and painful – it really just depends on the reason your transmission failed. The costs range from $300 to upwards of $5,000.

The fix: Stay on top of transmission service and get your multipoint inspections regularly.

#3: Overheated engine 

Lots of things can cause your engine to overheat, but luckily, it gives you warning signs ahead of time. An overheated engine can result in serious damage, including a blown head gasket, a cracked head, or a cracked block. Costs can range from $100 to $10,000.

The fix: Keep an eye on your coolant and oil levels. If you see your temperature gauge rising in the dashboard, don’t ignore – it – pull over and have your car towed to Toyota of Orlando so we can get auto repairs started.

#4: Blown head gasket

A blown head gasket results from overheating most of the time, and can lead to leaked coolant in other parts of your car (like the cylinders or oil passages). It can cost between $1,000 to $4,000 to fix it.

The fix: Take precautions to prevent your car from overheating.

#5: Hydrolocked engine

This auto repair is necessary when water gets inside of your engine’s cylinders and damages the pistons by creating too much pressure. The cost to fix it can be anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 – so maybe don’t drive through that puddle after all.

The fix: Avoid driving through water when you’re not aware of how deep it is.

#6: Bad timing belt

So here’s the thing: you’ll have to replace your car’s timing belt at some point in its life. That’s just part of driving. However, if you decide not to heed your Orlando Toyota service tech’s advice and change it when it’s due, it can result in a broken timing belt, which can then lead to MORE broken parts and way more expensive auto repairs. A broken timing belt can result in costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,500.

The fix: When it’s time to change your timing belt, do it – don’t delay until it’s too late.

#7:  Transmission fluid in the brake fluid reservoir

If transmission fluid accidentally finds its way into your brake fluid reservoir and into the brake lines, you’re going to be due for auto repairs – there’s no getting around it. The cost can range anywhere from $800 to $2,000.

The fix: Get routine multi-point inspections and fix any issues with your transmission that your Orlando auto service tech recommends.

#8: Bad computer 

When your computer in your car goes bad, it can result in a whole slew of other problems. This is especially true if your computer gets ruined by jump-starting your car – it can result in a blown battery, electrical system damage, or even a fire. The cost to repair can range from $1,000 to… you don’t even want to know.

The fix: Be extra careful when you’re jump-starting your car, and get routine multi-point inspections so our auto service techs can check the computer in your car while they’re at it.

#9: Worn-out clutch 

Just like your timing belt, you’ll also have to replace your car’s clutch at some point in life (hopefully much, much later). As you use it, it wears down and loses friction and can’t do its job effectively. The cost to replace a burnt clutch? $1,000 to $2,500.

The fix: Learn how to drive a stick well so you’re not wearing it out fast and if you notice a burning smell, bring your car into Toyota of Orlando so our techs can take a look.

Schedule your auto repairs at Toyota of Orlando today

Have questions about any of the above auto repairs or think you’re due for them? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We’re open seven days a week with the longest service hours in Central Florida – you can reach us at (407) 298-0001. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

 

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Can you schedule Lexus service at a Toyota dealership?

A lot of Lexus drivers ask us this question. It’s a valid question – you may be unsure as to whether or not Toyota techs could work on your Lexus, since it’s technically a different brand. The short answer is yes – you can get Lexus service at a Toyota dealership. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when you do. Here’s what our Orlando Toyota car care experts have to say about it.

Are the Lexus and Toyota brands related?

Yes, Lexus and Toyota are technically different brands. You won’t find new Toyotas for sale at a Lexus dealership and vice versa. However, did you know that both brands fall under the Toyota umbrella? Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota and shares many of the same designs, engines, transmissions, technology, parts, and accessories. This means that your Orlando Toyota tech is likely knowledgeable about a good deal of Lexus service and repairs.

Here are a few more things to consider before scheduling Lexus service at a Toyota dealership:

• You can use Toyota parts in Lexus cars, for the most part. Again, they’re all part of the Toyota corporation so they share a lot of parts. And most of the time, the parts can be swapped without affecting any warranties on the car. However, it’s best to check with your Lexus dealer before jumping in feet first. And you should always have the parts installed by a Lexus dealer OR a certified technician.
• Your local Toyota dealer MAY not have the parts they need to service or repair your Lexus on hand, so it’s a good idea to call them ahead of time when you’re about to schedule and let them know that you’re coming and why. That way, they can be prepared when you arrive.
• The opposite applies, too – you can usually get your Toyota serviced at a Lexus dealership without any issues.
• Lexus is a luxury brand, so they have fewer locally based dealerships than Toyota. It may be easier for you to find a Toyota dealership to schedule routine Lexus service. This is also true if you’re on a road trip and in an unfamiliar area, or one that doesn’t have a Lexus dealership nearby.
• If your Lexus is still under factory warranty, Toyota will not honor that warranty and you’ll need to visit a Lexus dealer for your routine auto service and repairs. Be sure to ask so you don’t void anything.
• If you drive an older Lexus model or a performance-based model that has special needs, there’s a chance that Toyota techs may not be able to do the necessary repairs. That’s why you should talk to your local Orlando Toyota dealer first, before visiting.

Schedule your Lexus service today at Toyota of Orlando

Need to schedule Lexus service? Call Toyota of Orlando to see how we can help. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we’re conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »

Car care – believe it or not – doesn’t have to be a budget-buster. If you keep up with a routine car maintenance schedule, pay attention to how your car looks and sounds and smells, and avoid aggressive driving, then caring for your car shouldn’t cost excessive amounts of money. One piece of car care that you NEVER want to skip is an oil change – but how much does an oil change cost, really?

How much does an oil change cost at Toyota of Orlando?

How much does an oil change cost when you schedule it at our Orlando Toyota Service Center (or anywhere else)? The answer varies. Here are some points to consider:

• If you’re getting a conventional oil change, the cost should be anywhere between $35-75.
• If you’re getting a synthetic oil change, the cost should be anywhere between $65-125.

However, the size of your vehicle can also affect the cost of an oil change. A typical passenger car will need around 5 quarts of oil to get the job done, but larger trucks and SUVs may require additional oil, which can boost the price up.

During your Orlando oil change, our Toyota service techs will drain out all of the oil oil to ensure you’re working on a clean slate (and they’ll discard the old oil appropriately – you can’t just dump it in the trash or down the drain). They’ll also replace the dirty oil filter with a clean one and add the recommended amount of fresh oil back into your engine. It’s a simple process and shouldn’t take a long amount of time, barring any complications.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind besides the question of “how much does an oil change cost”:

• The intervals at which you’ll need an oil change depend on your driving habits as well as the type of oil you use. Orlando Toyotas that use conventional oil typically need an oil change every 3,000 – 5,000 miles. Cars that use synthetic oil can go longer, usually needing an oil change every 7,500 – 15,000 miles. Check with our auto service techs to see which schedule YOUR car should be on. And remember, the more you drive, the sooner you’ll need an oil change.
• Conventional and synthetic oil changes both have their perks and drawbacks, so it’s a personal choice for you (or your car might require a certain type of oil – ask out techs to check it out).
  • Conventional oil is cheaper than synthetic; it’s made from refined crude oil. However, it doesn’t last as long and some drivers say it doesn’t offer the same performance benefits as synthetic.
  • Synthetic oil is much more refined and processed. It costs more than conventional oil, but lasts a long longer (so you can go longer in between oil changes) and helps to enhance vehicle performance.
  • You might also be able to use a synthetic blend, which is a mix of conventional and synthetic oils.
  • If your car is getting up there in years, our Orlando auto service techs may recommend high mileage oil. This special motor oil is designed to keep older cars up and running and help prevent leaks.

Bottom line, you should ask our techs at Toyota of Orlando not only how much does an oil change cost, but also which motor oil you should be using for your car and how often you should be scheduling this service. They can get you on a routine and also send you helpful reminders when you’re due to come in.

Schedule your Orlando oil change today

Have questions or want to get your next oil change on the books? Schedule today online, by calling (407) 298-0001, or by visiting us in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

 

Posted in Toyota Service | No Comments »