Driving can be a hassle, even when you’re behind the wheel of a reliable new Toyota. We get it! Orlando is jam-packed with traffic, it’s hot most of the year, and realistically, most of us would rather be sitting on the beach or parked in front of Netflix instead of battling I-4. However, Toyota of Orlando is here to make the situation a little more tolerable. Check out these 10 driving hacks to make your day-to-day commute that much easier!

Use these driving hacks to simplify your commute

#1: Drop a pin where you park your car. There’s nothing more annoying than not being able to remember where you parked, especially when it’s hot and you’re in a rush. When you park your Orlando Toyota, drop a pin on your iPhone and you’ll have no trouble finding your way back to it.

#2: Get the hot air out of your ride fast. Sliding into a stifling hot car after a long day of work is miserable. Get the hot air out fast – use this driving hack! Simply unroll the passenger side front window and then open and close your driver’s side door repeatedly – it’ll push the hot air out the window.

#3: Know what exit sign positions mean. Unsure as to which side of the highway your exit is on? Just look at the signs. If the sign is on the right, the exit is on the right. If it’s on the left, the exit is on the left.

#4: Learn how to gauge unfamiliar mechanics. If you get stuck with a roadside emergency and can’t make it to Toyota of Orlando, chances are you’ll be visiting a mechanic you’re unfamiliar with. Make sure they aren’t scamming you – choose a part of your car that you know is in good condition and ask them if there’s anything wrong with it.

#5: Stay in your lane. When you’re stuck in a traffic jam, just stay in your lane (as frustrating as it may be). Studies show that constantly changing lanes in a traffic jam won’t really get you anywhere faster.

#6: Keep your hands cool. Sick of burning your hands on a hot steering wheel every afternoon? Turn your wheel 180 degrees after you park so only the bottom gets heated by the sun – the top will be nice and cool when you turn it back.

#7: Download the right apps. Phone apps can be a lifesaver (as long as you don’t use them WHILE you’re driving). We suggest apps like Waze, which can serve as navigation and also alert you to accidents, as well as music and podcast apps for entertainment, weather apps to check the weather on your route, and a gas station finder app for convenience.

#8: Clean up after your four-legged friends. This driving hack is Mr. Toyota approved! Use a rubber squeegee to quickly and efficiently get pet hair off your seats (instead of taking the time to vacuum) so you’re not sneezing your way to work.

Shop driving hack supplies at Toyota of Orlando!

Want more tips or need to shop for supplies to make your drive time simple and efficient? Call Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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When it comes to oil changes, most people just know that they need to schedule one when the oil light comes on or when their mechanic sends them a reminder. However, did you know that you can actually choose the type of oil that goes under the hood to best suit your needs and your budget? There are four main types of motor oil available and Toyota of Orlando is here to explain each one of them. That way, you can decide which is best for your car next time you need to schedule an Orlando oil change.

What type of motor oil is best for your car?

Type 1: Conventional 

Conventional or regular motor oil used to be the most common type used in cars. It’s also the cheapest. However, it works best for drivers who have vehicles with simple engine systems and routine driving styles. Additionally, this type of oil has a shorter lifespan than synthetic. So while it may save you money in the short run, synthetic may save you more money overall. With this type of oil, you’ll typically need an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

Type 2: Synthetic 

Synthetic oil is what our Orlando Toyota service techs recommend to most customers. While its price tag is a bit higher than conventional, it lasts much, much longer. In some cases, it can last up to 10,000 miles without a problem! This type of oil is chemically engineered (as opposed to being made from natural fossil fuels) and thus provides a cleaner performance with less residue. It also handles cold and hot weather extremes better and in some cases, can even improve your car’s performance overall.

Type 3: Synthetic Blend

This is exactly what it sounds like – a blend of synthetic and conventional motor oils. It’s less costly than a full synthetic oil but still gives you a longer life and cleaner performance with less buildup than a conventional oil. It’s sort of the happy medium if you can’t choose between the two oils mentioned above and is great for towing and hauling in addition to withstanding cold weather well.

Type 4: High Mileage 

High mileage motor oil is specifically designed for older cars that have a lot of miles on them – specifically, over 75,000 miles. It has a different viscosity so it helps older cars perform better; it prevents oil leaks, helps to keep engine compression where it should be, and also prevents oil burnoff. If you drive a late-model car or have a newer one with lots of miles, then this is the perfect choice for you.

Schedule your quick oil change at Toyota of Orlando

Ready to schedule an Orlando oil change? Don’t put off this very important service. Call us today at (407) 298-0001 or swing by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. We’re open seven days a week for your convenience and have great auto service specials waiting to save you money.

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When you think of supercars, Toyota probably isn’t the first brand that comes to mind. We’re renowned worldwide for our reliable cars (like the Toyota Camry and Corolla), our hybrid lineup (including the famous Toyota Prius), and our trucks (TRD Pro options abound). But supercars? Not really… until now.

Toyota unveiled an all-new supercar at the Tokyo Auto Salon this week, and this hybrid race car is unlike we’ve ever seen before from the make. Toyota of Orlando has the highlights so you can get to know the all-new Toyota GR Super Sport!

See what the Toyota GR Super Sport has to offer

Here’s some quick information:

• This all-new sports car is a hybrid, but it’s unlike any hybrid you’ve ever seen before in the Toyota lineup.
• The Toyota GR Super Sport technically a hypercar that’s based on the Le Mans LMP1.
• It’s a concept right now, but the CEO of Toyota – Akio Toyoda – said that he has future plans to make it into a limited-edition production model for enthusiasts.
• Toyota Gazoo Racing developed the car – they’re the independent company inside of Toyota Motor Corp. that manages the high-end performance vehicles and parts as well as the racing.
• The Toyota GR Super Sport has a twin-turbo 2.4L V6 hybrid powertrain that puts out 986 horsepower.
• It uses the same chassis as the Le Mans LMP1.
• Gazoo Racing’s president said that it’s not a race car, but “the starting point for Toyota’s completely new challenge to develop sports cars from active race cars”.

We’re pretty excited to see what path this concept car takes, and the inspiration that springs from its design in the future!

Test drive the Orlando Toyota 86

However, like we said, it’s just a concept now. But if you want to get your hands on a sports car without breaking the bank or waiting years, why not come on down to our Orlando Toyota dealership? We have the 2018 Toyota 86 waiting on the lot and while it’s not a 986 horsepower hybrid, it’s still got a lot to offer in terms of sports car performance and style. Here are some of our favorite features:

• A sleek, angular, and pronounced exterior that comes in a bevy of bright colors including hues like Ablaze, Halo, Oceanic, and more
• A flat 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that puts out an amazing 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque
• Both manual and automatic six-speed transmissions and paddle shifters, dynamic rev management, and Track Mode on the automatic model
• A Toyota D-4S Direct Dual Injection System
• A sleek black interior with sport bucket front seats, carbon fiber accents, and contrasting stitching
• Rear-wheel drive with Torsen Limited Slip Differential
• Sport-tuned suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars
• Sport-calibrated Electric Power Steering
• A 7″ display audio system with HD Radio and Bluetooth technology
• 17″ twisted spoke alloy wheels

And those are just a few of our favorites!

Get behind the wheel of a sports car today without breaking the budget – the 2018 Toyota 86 kicks off at just $26,255. Toyota of Orlando is located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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Trying to get your daily dose of caffeination but sick of shelling out big bucks at Starbucks? Luckily for you, there are tons of small, unique coffee shops in Orlando that you can hit this weekend to get your fix. Toyota of Orlando has rounded up 6 of the top-voted shops so you can decide which ones you want to explore.

Drunken Monkey: The Drunken Monkey is located in the Milk District downtown and is a popular hangout morning and night. On Friday and Saturday nights you can scope standup comedy, showcase night, and open mic sessions, as well as enjoy a variety of vegan AND non-vegan baked treats. This coffeehouse also features paninis, soups, teas, smoothies, frozen drinks, Anzac cookies, and more. Plus, they roast all of their beans in-house so you get the freshest cup possible.

Cups and Pups: As of right now, you can only get Cups and Pups coffee when they pop up at farmer’s markets and other events… BUT, good news. They’re opening a permanent location that will not only serve a wide variety of different coffees and sweet treats but also offer an off-leash environment so you can bring your four-legged friends along! Let your pups have a playdate and try brews like lavender cold brew, butter coffee, and more.

Snowbean Cafe: This Korean dessert cafe specializes in coffee and Korean pastries but also offers popular Korean treats like Patbingsoo, which is a dessert made of shaved ice and fresh fruit. You’ll also find a variety of teas, frappuccinos, and baked goods, and it’s noted as a great place to relax or study for local UCF and Valencia students.

Bikes Beans & Bordeaux: Located just outside of Baldwin Park, this Orlando coffee shop lets you wind up with coffee OR wind down with a beer or glass of wine. You can also sate your appetite with soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, quinoa bowls, and flat breads; they also feature a special kids menu AND an extensive breakfast menu. Plus, their coffee is micro-roasted so each cup is as fresh as possible.

Stardust Video and Coffee: Trying to get your fill of life along with a dose of caffeination? Check out Stardust – this small coffee shop founded in the 70s offers live music, yoga, open mic nights, comedy nights, art shows, poetry nights, trivia, and more. You can grab a sandwich and sip a coffee but give yourself plenty of time – you’ll definitely want to explore the eclectic decorations featured on the walls.

DUO58: This coffee bar was founded by a local UCF grad and its mission is to serve. It’s a non-profit – they partner with Mission for Hope: Haiti and also offer a Job and Life Skills program for those who are having trouble finding or maintaining employment locally. They offer both breakfast and lunch as well as a wide variety of of specialty coffees and teas. Get a bite, grab a brew, and give back!

We hope you have a fun and caffeinated weekend – don’t forget to check out the coffee at Mr. Toyota’s Cafe if you happen to swing by Toyota of Orlando!

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Whether carpool is about to kick things into gear or you’re sending your college student out on the road for freshman year, you need to ensure that the car you’re commandeering is up for the job. After all, things get busy in the fall with back to school and the impending holidays, and the last thing you need to add to your plate is auto repairs. Toyota of Orlando is here with 5 auto service appointments you’ll want to make to get back to school with confidence and tackle fall semester like a pro.

Tip #1: Make sure your tires are inflated to the right PSI. 

You always want your tires to be inflated to the correct PSI. This will not only help them grip the road properly and give you the traction you need, but it will also ensure you get the fuel efficiency you deserve. Underinflated or overinflated tires are a safety hazard and they also negatively affect your fuel efficiency so you don’t get the MPGs you’re counting on.

Tip #2: Get an oil change. 

Get an oil change before the back to school hustle starts – it’s important to stay on top of this routine Orlando auto service because it keeps your engine cool and lubricated (and keeps those nasty auto repair bills at bay). Take the time to get your oil changed and be sure to get on a schedule AND check it routinely to ensure the tank is clean and full.

Tip #3: Detail your car inside and out. 

No one wants to ride in a dirty car – period. Detail your car inside and out, paying attention to things like:

• Vacuuming the entire interior, including the floor mats and under the seats
• Wiping down all surfaces
• Cleaning the windows and windshield with appropriate cleaner
• Wash and dry the exterior
• Wax the exterior for added protection

And get rid of all the clutter so you’ll have plenty of room for bookbags and extracurricular gear.

Tip #4: Have a multi-point inspection conducted for things like brakes, batteries, and tires. 

It’s smart to have your ride looked over by our Orlando auto service experts before you hit back to school traffic. They’ll be able to check out things like your car battery and its condition and voltage, your brake system, and the general condition of your tires. This way you’re prepped and ready for anything the school year has to throw at you, and our techs can also give you a heads up if they notice any issues that are starting to crop up so you can nip them in the bud.

Tip #5: Check coolant levels. 

School may be back in session and fall officially just a month away, but it’s still blazing hot in Orlando. Combine that with more traffic from back to school AND more miles on your odometer now that class is back in session, and your car really needs to keep its cool. Check the coolant levels and top the off if they’re low.

Ready to schedule back to school auto service? Call us today – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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Happy Friday the 13th! In honor of the occasion, Toyota of Orlando is talking superstitions – specifically, driving superstitions. There are more out there than you’d think, and today we’re discussing some of the most common ones and where they originated from.

We’ve all heard of the typical superstitions – don’t walk under a ladder, don’t let a black cat cross your path, don’t break a mirror, avoid the number 13. But what about when it comes to your ride? Here are some of the most interesting superstitions we’ve heard from drivers.

#1: Holding your breath when you pass a graveyard 

It’s a common driving superstition that whenever you pass a graveyard in your car, you should hold your breath. Why? Some people believe it’s to avoid making the ghosts jealous (you know, because you’re alive and can still breathe) while others do it to avoid breathing in any spirits.

#2: Touching the ceiling when you go through a yellow light 

Have you ever heard the superstition of touching the roof of your car when you pass through a yellow light? (By the way, we don’t recommend – keep your hands on the wheel.) Some people also kiss their fingers before touching the ceiling. Either way, it’s a silent way of saying thank you that you got through the light without being hit or pulled over.

#3: Picking your feet up when you cross a bridge or railroad 

Again, we don’t recommend – it’s not smart to take your feet off the pedals when you’re driving. But some drivers believe that you have to lift your feet off the floor of the car when you go over a bridge or railroad tracks. Apparently, it’s believed that if you don’t, you’ll never meet your true love or get married. Some people even believe that if you don’t, you’ll die young.

#4: Holding your breath in a tunnel 

Supposedly, it’s good luck to hold your breath while driving through a tunnel. If you can make it through the entire tunnel without breathing, then you can make a wish at the end and your wish will come true. (Not super smart, though – holding your breath can lead to passing out, which isn’t ideal behind the wheel of a car.)

#5: Putting change under the seat of a new car 

Some drivers throw some loose change under the seat of their new car for good luck (and it’s handy in case your E-Pass stops working, we guess).

Think those are weird? Check out some of the most common NASCAR driving superstitions. A lot of drivers refuse to drive green cars because they see the color green as an unlucky omen. A driver racing way back in 1920 was killed while driving a green car, and that’s where the superstition originated from. Additionally, many NASCAR drivers have an aversion to shelled peanuts, even going so far as to ban them from the pits and garages. Why? For some reason, there was a rash of accidents before the first World War where unshelled peanuts were found in the car.

What’s your #1 driving superstition? Leave a comment and let us know… and have a safe and happy Friday the 13th!

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It’s Child Passenger Safety Week and here at Toyota of Orlando, we want to share some of our best child safety tips regarding car seats for your precious cargo. Driving with kids in the car is a whole different ballgame and brings into play all-new aspects of safety that you may have never even considered before. Let’s get started!

What is Child Passenger Safety Week?

Child Passenger Safety Week is sponsored by the NHTSA and focuses mainly on car seats and their installation. Did you know that almost half of all car seats are installed incorrectly? And when car seats are installed incorrectly, they can’t function properly to keep your small passengers safe in the event of an accident or collision. So, how can you ensure that you’re following the best child safety rules when you’re carting the kids around town? Here are a few tips.

Use these child safety tips from Toyota of Orlando to choose the right car seat

Tip #1: Choose the right type of car seat. 

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to car seats – infants, toddlers, and larger children all need different types of seats to best keep them safe. Additionally, you need to consider rear-facing versus front-facing seats. Infants should always ride in an infant seat until they outgrow the weight/height limits, and should always be facing rear. Toddlers should also remain in a car seat fitted to them until they outgrow it, and it’s recommended that you keep them rear-facing as long as you possibly can for safety reasons. When your child finally outgrows the car seat, our Orlando Toyota dealership recommends fitting them for a booster seat to ensure that the car’s seatbelts fit them properly. And remember, children should be in the back seat until the age of 13.

Tip #2: Register your car seat. 

When you buy a new car seat, you’ll receive paperwork that comes along with it. There should be an included registration card that you can send in free of charge to the manufacturer. This will sign you up for any news about the car seat when it comes to recalls or problems and you’ll be notified right away. Don’t skip this child safety measure!

Tip #3: Make sure you know HOW to install the seat. 

So you’ve chosen the right seat and registered it… now it’s time to install it. As mentioned, many people install their seats incorrectly, which is a big safety hazard. Your best bet is to install according to the directions that come with the seat and then take your vehicle to a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician to have them check it. Typically you can find them at your local police station or fire station and the inspection is free (and absolutely worth it). Our Orlando Toyota dealership highly recommends you take this extra step to ensure the safety of your family!

Want more child safety tips, or looking for a ride that’s designed to be both family-friendly and exceptionally safe? Visit Toyota of Orlando today. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, and you can scope our entire inventory of family-oriented new Toyotas!

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Fall is here! OK, so it dropped a few degrees and all the tropical activity out in the Atlantic is sucking the humidity out of the air. Still, temps in the 80s and low humidity call for some outdoor time after a long, hot, humid summer! What will you do in the City Beautiful to get your fair share of fresh air? Toyota of Orlando has some suggestions to get you out and about enjoying the weather (before it’s gone – we all know it never lasts). Check it out!

Food, wine, and fall fun are all within your reach this weekend

Epcot Food and Wine Festival: This renowned Orlando festival runs from August 29 – November 23 and it’s your best shot to enjoy Walt Disney World AND taste an amazing array of food and drinks (adult and non-adult). There are 30 Global Marketplaces from which you can sample food and drinks as well as a special concert series that brings the likes of Boyce Avenue, Hanson, Sugar Ray, Plain White T’s, and more. You can even participate in chef demonstrations and hands-on workshops, as well as activities designed especially for kids.

Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights: Looking for a few scares to get yourself into the spirit of Halloween? Head over to Universal Orlando for Halloween Horror Nights! This special spooky event runs from September 6 – November 2 and it’s your prime opportunity to scare yourself silly. Not only can you check out the numerous themed haunted houses and scare zones (think Stranger Things, House of 1,000 Corpses, Universal Monsters, and more), you can also hit all the rides while you’re there if you prefer more of a roller-coaster thrill.  FYI – this event isn’t suitable for kids.

Scare up some fun at the parks

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party: Looking for something less about scares and more about a whole lot of candy? Round up the family and head to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom. This event is ticketed separately and considered to be after hours, so the park is a lot less crowded and you and the fam will likely be able to hit all the rides. Additionally, there’s trick-or-treating throughout the park (and it’s the GOOD candy), a special Halloween fireworks show and parade, Disney Villains castle show, and the entire park is decorated for the party. We highly recommend it, even if you’re a childless millenial. This event runs from August 16 – November 1.

Magical Dining Month: Want to skip the parks and hang locally? You’re in luck – Magical Dining Month runs from August 23 – October 7 and spans the City Beautiful, offering you delicious and seemingly endless options. How does it work? Basically, 125 participating restaurants offer a special three-course prix-fixe menu for customers to try for just $35. You’ll get an appetizer, entree, and dessert for a fixed price (even at the fancy restaurants). Magical Dining also spans a huge variety of cuisines so there’s something for everyone and plenty of options – get adventurous!

And don’t forget, the best way to enjoy fall is from behind the wheel of a fresh new ride. Call Toyota of Orlando at (407) 298-4500 to learn more about our deals and enjoy your weekend!

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When the season changes from fall to winter, you’re probably wondering what all needs to be done in preparation for colder temperatures. One of the things you’ll need to prep is your car! With a change in temperature, your car is going to start reacting differently. That’s why it’s important to know what to look out for! Our Toyota auto service team is here to explain how the cold weather, even in Orlando, can affect your car.

Orlando cold weather can mean car trouble

There are plenty of things you need to look out for when the temperatures drop in Orlando. That’s why our Toyota auto service team is here to give you the 411 on what to look out for in regard to your car.

Battery life

Before it starts to get cold, we recommend getting your battery tested during some routine Toyota auto service. A typical battery can last around three years, but extreme colds under 30°F can pull the voltage from the battery. That’ll make that overall lifetime shrink.

Auto fluids

Like other types of liquids, auto fluids are affected by a change in temperature. When it starts to get cold, the fluids in your car will start to thicken. You’ll want to keep an eye out for your oil, antifreeze, power steering, brake, and transmission fluids. You’ll especially want to make sure your transmission fluid isn’t having issues flowing. It’ll start to thicken below 35°F and won’t run at a normal pace. That can cause issues with your car’s functionality.

Tire pressure

This bit of knowledge is a bit more common. When it starts to get colder out, your car tires will lose their tire pressure. For every 10°F drop, your tires will lose one psi. So even if you recently filled your tires with air, you might have to check them again after temperatures have dropped. You don’t want to find yourself driving with tires with low pressure, or worse, a flat when you’re on the road.

Spark plugs

Make sure to get your spark plugs checked before driving in Orlando in colder temperatures. The reliability of your spark plug goes weakens in the winter, so you’ll want to make sure to have on that’s in good shape before it gets cold. This is because as it gets colder, you’ll have to hard start your vehicle to turn it on and a bad spark plug can affect whether or not you can turn on the car.

Get Toyota auto service this winter

If you feel like our previous cold snaps might have already taken a toll or you want to make sure your car is prepared, be sure to come to our Toyota auto service center. Our Orlando Toyota service team will get your car back in great condition in no time! We’re located at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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Are you at a crossroads with your car, trying to decide whether you should shell out more money for vital auto repairs or just wash your hands of it and cash out? We get it – it’s a tough spot to be, and it can be hard to decide which route is the most responsible and efficient one to take. Luckily, our Orlando auto repair techs are here to help you figure out the best path for you and your vehicle.

4 signs it’s time to trade in

Here are four major signs it’s time to trade in, trade up, and stop putting money into auto repairs:

1) Your car is dangerous or unreliable. ‘

If your car has become dangerous – we’re talking consistent problems with braking, accelerating, etc. – or is just incredibly unreliable, then it’s time to cash out and move on. You don’t want to put others or yourself in danger when you hit the road, nor do you want to be constantly waiting for a tow truck. If this is the case with your car, we recommend skipping the auto repairs and saving that money for a down payment on a new ride.

2) You’re making repeated trips to the mechanic. 

Find yourself spending a lot of time at the body shop getting auto repairs? If you feel like it’s quickly becoming your second home and your car’s issues just can’t seem to be resolved, do yourself a big favor and move on. Trade your ride in and get behind the wheel of something that’s reliable AND affordable, and enjoy your newly freed up weekends and afternoons.

3) You’ve been wanting an upgrade in terms of technology. 

Feel like your current car just doesn’t cut it when it comes to safety tech, connectivity, or both? If it’s also experiencing problems that require big auto repairs, now’s your opportunity to trade in for something more advanced. Get the features you need… this is an excellent time to do it!

4) Your car’s value is less than the cost of repairs. 

Here at Toyota of Orlando, our used cars director can quickly and efficiently appraise your car to tell you how much it’s worth. We also have a handy trade-in value tool on our site for you to utilize. If the value of your car is less than the estimated cost of repairs, it’s not worth putting more money into the vehicle. Instead, put that money into something newer and more dependable.

What’s the Toyota of Orlando Vehicle Exchange Program?

And we can help you do it! The Vehicle Exchange Program at Toyota of Orlando was designed especially for people like you. Our specialists can pull a CarFax, do an in-person appraisal of your car, talk to your mechanic, and help you find a new vehicle that has comparable or even lower payments. And they’re here seven days a week until 10 pm to serve you!

Come on down to Toyota of Orlando. We’re just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and you can call us at (407) 298-0001 to get the process started!

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