We’re eagerly – some might even say anxiously – awaiting the unveiling and arrival of the 2022 Toyota Tundra. However, Toyota has been keeping this new truck under pretty tight wraps until the big day. They did, however, just release another teaser, and this one revolves around the new engine that will purportedly be under the hood of the 2022 model when it arrives at a Toyota dealership near you. We’re taking a closer look (we gotta stay busy while we wait, right?).

What type of engine will the new 2022 Toyota Tundra have under the hood?
The latest 2022 Toyota Tundra teaser shows a quick look at the new engine, which has been dubbed the iForce Max. Now, if you recall, the engine that’s currently under the hood of this Orlando Toyota truck is called the iForce V8. It’s a 5.7L V8 engine that churns out 381 horsepower for some serious get up and go. The new engine, however, has notedly dropped any sort of number in its name and is just going by “Max” (which doesn’t give us much to go on, but here we are).
So what will it be? Here’s what we think. There’s faux manifold decoration on the engine cover and three intake runners on each side. This leads us to believe that it’s likely going to be some sort of V6 engine, which we knew was coming as Toyota steadily phases out its V8 options. There are really two possibilities here:
- A new twin-turbocharged V6 gas engine. This is a strong possibility because this is the type of engine that’s debuting in the new Toyota Land Cruiser, which you can only buy overseas after 2021 (sorry). This could be Toyota’s chance to bring it stateside.
- A naturally-aspirated V6 engine.
Either way, we think that there’s a big chance that this new model of the Orlando Toyota Tundra will have a hybrid drivetrain. Things are getting greener every day in the automotive industry and Toyota has vowed to increase its electrified options for US drivers. It only seems fitting that the newest model of this popular truck would be available in a hybrid version, especially given the introduction of the Ford F-150 hybrid model.
We’d be excited if this were the case. There are tons of perks to hybrid drivetrains, the main two being much better fuel efficiency and a cleaner performance (fewer emissions). We all know that trucks – even Toyota trucks – can be gas guzzlers because of their large size and large engines. Swapping out the drivetrain would ensure better fuel efficiency and less money spent at the pump to travel the same distances, which brings ownership costs down. And it wouldn’t affect performance capabilities (in terms of towing, speed, etc.) if done right (and you know Toyota’s got it covered).
Stay tuned for updates on this new truck with Toyota of Orlando
We’ll keep you posted on the upcoming 2022 Toyota Tundra – follow us on social media @ToyotaOfOrlando or give us a call to find out more. You can reach us seven days a week at (407) 298-4500!
Why is heat bad for your hybrid car battery?
We all know (especially here in Orlando) that intense heat isn’t the greatest for your car. It makes your engine work harder to keep cool, can cause your interior to fade and crack over time, and can fade and damage your exterior paint and finishes. However, if you own a hybrid car, the heat is hard on one part especially – the car battery. And believe it or not, this can actually affect your Orlando Toyota hybrid’s fuel efficiency, too. We’re here to explain.

Toyota of Orlando explains
Heat makes batteries work harder (similarly to how it makes your car engine work harder). In nickel-metal hydride batteries, excessive heat can actually cause bulging or bubbling. This leads to electrolytes inside of the hybrid car battery evaporating, which in turn means your battery loses its ability to recharge properly. Long story short, this shortens the length of your car battery’s life and in a hybrid, this is especially bad – hybrid car batteries aren’t cheap to replace. It could run you anywhere between $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the make and model you’re driving.
On top of that, excessive heat + your car battery = lower fuel efficiency. If your battery isn’t charging properly, it means it’s working less efficiently and can’t store as much energy. This, in turn, lowers your MPGs so you’re not getting the fuel economy you deserve.
Help your hybrid car battery stay cool this summer
So what can you do to beat the heat for your hybrid car battery? Here are some easy tips from our Orlando Toyota service specialists:
- Get routine car maintenance. This will allow our Toyota of Orlando techs to do their multi-point inspection, during which they’ll do a once-over of your hybrid car battery to ensure it’s in good physical condition. The more often you check it, the more likely you are to nip any issues in the bud before they become too costly.
- Keep the interior of your car cool. Remember, in hybrid cars the battery is usually located under the back seats as opposed to under the hood of the car. If you keep the cabin of your car cooler by running the A/C when it’s hot outside, you’ll do your battery a favor.
- Tint your windows. Things heat up quickly inside of your car when you’re not in it and the A/C isn’t running. Getting your Orlando Toyota hybrid’s windows tinted can help keep temperatures down inside the cabin; you can also throw up a sunshade in the windshield to block the rays and try to keep things cooler.
- Pick your parking wisely. Park in the shade when you’re out and about if at all possible, or try to score a covered parking spot. Keeping your car in the garage at home (or at least under a carport) will help ward off the sun and keep things cooler for your car.
Think you need hybrid car battery maintenance or want to have our techs take a look at your car? Call us! Toyota of Orlando’s service center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.
There’s been a lot of hype surrounding the new 2021 Ford Bronco (and we get it – we’re a Toyota dealer, but it’s a nice-looking ride). However, when you get past the hype, how does it compare to much-loved fan favorites like the 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro? Toyota of Orlando is here to break it down so you can decide which is the better option for you to send out summer from off the pavement.
The 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner is practically a cult classic at this point – it has quite a following, especially amongst off-road enthusiasts. Let’s start with the basics:
- The starting MSRP of this off-road-ready truck-based SUV is around $51,290. However, that price tag includes all of the performance features you need to tackle some seriously tough terrain, plus top technology and a sleek but durable interior.
- The Toyota 4Runner has body-on-frame construction, which means it handles more like a truck than a car (which many drivers prefer, especially when taking things off the pavement).
- It has a 4.0L V6 engine under the hood that provides 270 horsepower. This Orlando Toyota SUV also has a narrow body, almost 10″ of ground clearance, and dedicated off-road suspension.
- The Orlando Toyota 4Runner is slightly bigger than the 2021 Ford Bronco – it has a longer wheelbase and overall
The 2021 Ford Bronco

Now let’s talk about the competition. The Ford Bronco is a new introduction to the market; it was retired for some time and then redesigned and reintroduced this year. Here are the basics about this new SUV:
- It has a starting MSRP of $29,995. However, that’s just the base model. If you want to add in all of the performance features, style specifics, and technology, it’s going to be quite a bit pricier than that.
- Two engines are available – a 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder with 275 horsepower or a 2.7L EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 with 310 horsepower.
- This new Ford SUV also drives like a truck, although it lacks a certain level of refinement on paved roads as its forte is really on off-road terrain.
So, which is these new SUVs is right for you?
Let’s talk about similarities now. Both of these SUVs are off-road ready and get similar fuel efficiency; they also both seat 5 and have pretty similar width and height. They’re both also decked out for off-road terrain and can handle pretty much anything that Mother Nature throws at them.
One solid advantage, however, that Toyota has is its brand quality. Toyotas have incredible resale value and reliability that are renowned on a global level and far surpass Ford. If you want a vehicle that you can depend on for years (decades, even!) to come or a ride that you can sell for the most bang for your buck down the road, you know where to find us.
Shop for the new 2021 Toyota 4Runner in person – you can get your hands on it at Toyota of Orlando! We’re located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road and we’re open seven days a week. Call us at (407) 298-4500 to get things started!
How to choose your next auto mechanic
Are you dreading even the thought of having to find a new auto mechanic to help you with service and repairs for your ride? We get it. You put a huge amount of trust into a mechanic and count on them to keep your Orlando Toyota up and running in the best shape possible, so finding the right one can be a daunting task. As always, we’re here to help – check out these quick tips to get the process rolling and to make it as easy as possible.

Four tips for finding the right auto mechanic
#1: Ask your friends and your family. Why not ask your friends, family, and coworkers which auto mechanic they use? This is a great way to get a personal referral to someone that they trust to work on their car. If they trust them, you probably can, too.
#2: Do a little research online. It never hurts to put your smartphone to work, either. Do a little research online to at least narrow your auto mechanic options. You can search for repair and service shops near you and then look at things like customer reviews and testimonials, as well as the certifications that the shop has and the services that it offers.
#3: Try a shop that specifically services your make. If you’re stuck at a dead end, you can always look for an auto mechanic shop that services your make specifically. For example, if you were to service your Toyota at Toyota of Orlando, you could rest a little easier knowing that our techs are well-versed and certified in all things Toyota and that we’ll use Genuine Toyota Parts to repair your car and KEEP it a Toyota.
#4: Go for it. If all else fails, you can jump in feet first! Find a shop near you that’s convenient to visit or look for a brand name you trust, and schedule an appointment. Start small with a routine auto service like an oil change or tire rotation; this will let you get a feel for the shop and the auto mechanics to see if you’re comfortable with getting them on board for regular car care or bigger repairs in the future.
Still can’t decide? Give our Toyota of Orlando service center a try. Our auto mechanics can get you back on the road quickly and affordably; not only that, we have a Certified Toyota Collision Center onsite for your repairs.
Schedule repairs or service at our Orlando Toyota service center today!
Call Toyota of Orlando today! Our Toyota Service Center is conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road. We’re open seven days a week to help with all of your auto mechanic needs. Call ahead with questions, to find out more about our auto service specials, and to schedule an appointment at (407) 298-4500.
Car accessories you need for tailgating this season
Football season is here, which means it’s time to break out your tailgating gear and hit the road! Cooler weather, exciting games, and friends and family all make for the perfect tailgating weekend whether it’s in town or out of town, but don’t forget – you need the right ride AND the right accessories to make the most of it. Not only do we have a great selection of new Toyotas that are perfect for tailgating – we’re looking at you, Toyota Tundra – but we also have some suggestions as to car accessories that will help you make the most of the big game. Check it out!

Six car accessories to take tailgating this fall
#1: Cargo area organizer. You’re going to have A LOT of gear with you during tailgating season, especially if you’re the type of loyal fan who will even get out of town to support your team. Invest in a cargo area organizer – or at least a net – to keep everything in its place and prevent it from rolling around the back of your Orlando Toyota while you’re on the way to the field. This car accessory will also ensure it’s easy to find everything you need when it’s time to break out the party supplies.
#2: Wireless speakers. You can play music in your car for the tailgate, but then you’re also at risk of draining your car battery AND you have to leave your car open all day. Instead, invest in some wireless speakers to pump up the jams and keep the music flowing until it’s time to head into the stadium.
#3: A bed extender. If you have a lot of gear but your cab is full of passengers, you may want to invest in a bed extender for your Orlando Toyota truck. This cool car accessory will allow you to leave the tailgate down but still keep all of your gear in the bed when you’re on the go, giving you a good deal of extra space back there. Ask our Toyota of Orlando parts store which one works best for your truck!
#4: Tonneau cover. Whether you drive a Toyota truck or an SUV, this car accessory really comes in handy when it comes to privacy and security. It covers anything that’s in the bed of the truck or the cargo area of the SUV, keeping it away from prying eyes who may want to break into your vehicle while you’re instead of the stadium. Plus, if you drive a truck, it’ll keep everything dry and in the shade while you’re busy cheering on your team.
#5: A power inverter. Taking a bunch of appliances with you to make your tailgating site a home away from home? Consider a power inverter – this will allow you to run and charge things off of your car battery. Just make sure you’re clear on how it works, how you should use it, and have our Toyota of Orlando auto service techs inspect your battery before you put the inverter to use.
#6: Hitch. If you’re REALLY swamped when it comes to tailgating gear (or you just want to bring your smoker along for the ride), you may need to tow behind your vehicle. In this case, you’ll need a hitch and a towing setup. Our parts store can get you everything you need and our Toyota service center can install it – just call and set up an appointment!
Shop for them all at Toyota of Orlando
Shopping car accessories for tailgating season? Look no further than Toyota of Orlando. Our parts store (and all of our tailgate-ready new Toyotas) are waiting for you at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. We’re open seven days a week and you can reach us ahead of time at (407) 298-4500.
The 2022 Toyota Sienna vs the 2022 Honda Odyssey
Are you shopping for the perfect new Toyota that’s a fit for the entire family? You’ve found it – the redesigned 2022 Toyota Sienna is here and bringing with it a slew of new features. However, we know that Toyotas aren’t the only options on the market right now and we want to help you find the BEST drive time solution for your needs. That’s why we’re taking the time to compare this Orlando Toyota minivan to one of its strongest competitors – the 2022 Honda Odyssey. See how things stack up!

How do these two new minivans compare?
For comparison’s sake, we’re putting the 2022 Toyota Sienna XLE and the 2022 Honda Odyssey EX in the hot seats to see which of these new minivans walks away with the advantage. Let’s take a look at the details.
Comfort: When all is said and done, you really want a family vehicle that’s comfortable inside. This means you need something spacious and ergonomic and the 2022 Toyota Sienna delivers. It offers more hip space in the front by an inch and the rear by two inches, as well as four climate control zones compared to the Honda Odyssey’s three. Additionally, this new Toyota offers easy symmetrical-fold rear seats for maximum cargo space and a standard front sunroof. Otherwise, these two minivans are neck and neck in terms of interior space, comfort features, and accessibility.
Performance: Let’s talk about what matters most first – this new Toyota minivan is a HYBRID. This means major fuel efficiency and a much cleaner performance. Right off the bat, it gets 36/36 mpg in the city and on the highway, far surpassing the 19/22 that its Honda competition offers. You’ll save a ton of money on fuel alone. This Orlando Toyota also offers performance features like regenerative brakes, plus the option of navigation via a 9″ color display, neither of which are up for grabs on the Honda model.
Technology: The 2022 Toyota Sienna also has a bit of an edge when it comes to technology. While both minivans offer the tech you need to make your drive time safe, convenient, and efficient, the Toyota model takes things one step further with features like a standard power liftgate, a standard coming home device and power garage door opener, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, the option of a wireless charging pad, and the Safety Connect System, which you’ll only find on Toyotas. Additionally, the 2022 Toyota Sienna offers a superior audio system with 8 speakers (and the optional JBL upgrade with 12 speakers), as well as an optional subwoofer and wireless headphones that go with the rear seat entertainment system, a feature not available on the Honda Odyssey.
Test drive the 2022 Toyota Sienna at Toyota of Orlando
Honestly, the best way to decide which is best for you is to test drive them both and see which one better suits your drive time style. Come on down and put the 2022 Toyota Sienna to the test today! Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week until 10pm at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can call ahead of time for more info or to schedule your appointment at (407) 298-4500!
Are you thinking about adding a car spoiler?
Has the thought of adding a car spoiler to your Orlando Toyota recently crossed your mind? It’s a great way (and an affordable one) to create a custom look for your ride and also – believe it or not – to improve your car’s performance. However, although they’re just an accessory, you do need to take a few things into consideration before you buy and install a car spoiler. See what the experts at our Toyota of Orlando body shop have to say about it!

What you should consider before adding a car spoiler
#1: You need to do the right research. You can’t just buy any car spoiler and stick it on your car – you run the risk of it looking ridiculous. Certain spoilers look good with certain vehicles, so do your research. And don’t just rely on pictures. Remember, they’re taken at certain angles and with particular lighting. Try to find the car spoiler you want in real life and look at it on a car that’s similar to yours to get the best idea of how it’ll look after you install it.
#2: You need it to match your vehicle’s paint color. If you’re buying a carbon fiber spoiler or one that’s primed to paint, you’re in good shape. However, if you’re buying one that’s already painted, you need to ensure that it’s going to have to match the existing car paint color on your car or you run the risk of it clashing. Paint codes are unique to makes and models, so do your due diligence before swiping your credit card.
#3: You’ll have to care for it much like the rest of your car. You’ll have to take care of your car spoiler much like the rest of the car – wash it, wax it, etc. And don’t forget, it can still be damaged like the rest of your Orlando Toyota, too. It’s at risk of dings, dents, scratches, and even wind damage if the weather is bad enough, so take the proper precautions.
Why you should invest in a car spoiler
However, we’re big fans of car spoilers here at Toyota of Orlando. Here’s why we think it’s a great accessory to add to your car:
#1: It creates a truly custom look. You can spend a ton of money swapping out wheels, having your car repainted, etc. – or you can add a spoiler to the back. It’s an easy way to create a custom look for your ride without having to spend a ton of money or put your car in the shop for a long period of time.
#2: It enhances performance. Believe it or not, adding this car accessory can actually enhance your car’s performance. Car spoilers catch wind when you’re out on the road and this actually causes them to push the back of your car down, giving you improved handling. It’s a performance improvement that you don’t even have to crack the hood for, and it’s free.
Have questions about car spoilers or want to start shopping? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.
Is it time for you to kick your old car to the curb to make room in your life for a new one? First of all, congrats – buying a new car is exciting and rewarding. However, what are your plans for your old ride? If you’re not sure what to do with your retiree vehicle, Toyota of Orlando is here to help. Check out the options available to you for getting rid of your old car.

Option #1: Trade it in or sell it to us. We’re always looking for preowned cars to stock our used lot, and we’ll add yours to our inventory whether you want to trade it in or just sell it to us. Our used cars director will appraise your vehicle and make you a cash offer on the spot regardless of whether you plan to buy your new car from us or someone else. This is a quick and easy way to get your money’s worth, and you can schedule an appointment with us to save time and at least just get the offer so you can better weigh your options.
Option #2: Sell it privately. You can also sell your car privately. This gives you a little more control over the process and lets you dictate the price, but keep in mind that you have to do all the legwork when you sell privately. You’re going to be the one transferring the title and tag and doing all of the associated paperwork (instead of us), so make sure it’s worth your while before you take this route.
Option #3: Sell it online. Selling your old car online is another option. This is sort of like trading in at a dealership but instead, using an online service that will come to pick your car up from your house. The only downside? You can’t haggle the offer in person – what you get is what you get with no room for improvement.
Option #4: Donate it. Another option is donation. If you don’t really need the money or don’t feel it’s worth the time or effort to trade in or sell your car, you can definitely hand over the keys for free. Plenty of local non-profits take old cars as donations and not only can you feel good about your decision, but you can also write it off as a tax benefit to save yourself a bit of money. Typically, the IRS will allow you to write off whatever the car would sell for if sold at auction. Defer to your accountant with questions!
Option #5: Junk it. Finally, you can always junk your old car if you’re completely done with it and it’s not safe or able to be donated. In this scenario, you’d need to find a junkyard or junk removal service to tow it away and dispose of it for you. You won’t get any money for it, but at least it’ll be off your plate.
Have questions or want to schedule a trade-in appraisal? Call Toyota of Orlando today! We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.
Ants in your car? Here’s how to get rid of them.
Have you ever climbed into your car and noticed that you’re not alone? We’re not talking human passengers or four-legged friends – we’re talking ants. Believe it or not, ant infestations in cars are pretty common and can do serious damage to your Orlando Toyota long-term. That’s why it’s critical to take care of the problem as soon as you notice your new six-legged passengers, and our Toyota of Orlando service center techs are here to give you tips on how to do it.

Why might you find ants in your car?
Ants find their way into your car because they deem it a viable source of food or water. They build nests, sure, but once their home base is established ants tend to forage for food and water to bring back, finding the necessities by scent. Once they’ve found food or water in your car, it’s a free-for-all. And even worse, they leave scent trails so other ants know where to get the goods and can also invade your vehicle. This problem can quickly get out of hand, so as soon as you notice ants in your car it’s important to act fast. If left unchecked, ants can chew through wood, foam, insulation, and worst of all, wires. Plus, they can bite you and your passengers.
Tip #1: Clean your car from top to bottom. The first step to take when you notice ants in your car is to give your car a thorough detailing. Take out all trash, food, empty bottles, etc. and vacuum the interior. Wipe down all surfaces, clean the glass, and be sure to check in places like under the seats, in the seat cracks, under car seats, underneath floor mats, and in storage areas like the trunk, glovebox, and center console. Make sure your car is crumb-free and has nothing in it that may be deemed delicious by ants.
Tip #2: Try DIY remedies. You can try at-home remedies at first if you’re not overly keen on the idea of putting professional ant-killing products in your car. Some people swear by Dawn soap – mix two cups of warm water, three tablespoons of salt, and three tablespoons of soap in a spray bottle and spray down the ants.
Ants also hate citrus (like spiders and other insects). Use a citrus-based cleaner when cleaning your car to deter them from wanting to hang out in there. You can also add orange oil to the above-mentioned Dawn soap mixture for an extra-potent extermination tool.
Tip #3: Spring for ant spray and traps. If DIY remedies just won’t cut it, it’s time to break out the big guns. Hit Home Depot or Lowe’s and look for ant-killing spray and ant bait or traps to leave in the car. Spray will kill the ones you see immediately, while bait/traps will take care of the ones that are hiding. Just be sure to be careful with what you’re using, especially if you have kids or pets in the car.
Tip #4: Change your parking spot. It’s also a good idea to switch up where you park – this will confuse the ants and they won’t be able to follow their scent trails to your vehicle anymore.
Tip #5: Look for nests. If you see ant nests in your driveway or yard, get rid of them. This will destroy the home base and encourage the ants to get out of town and head elsewhere.
Visit Toyota of Orlando for help with an ant infestation
Need help with an ant infestation? Call Toyota of Orlando’s auto service center. Our techs are here seven days a week to give you a hand! Toyota of Orlando is located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall and you can reach us at (407) 298-0001.
How to handle car paint oxidization
The sun in Central Florida can be brutal. If you’ve lived even one summer here, you know how unforgiving the sun can be in a lot of ways, especially when it comes to your car. One of the most common types of car paint damage we see here at Toyota of Orlando is car paint oxidization. This is when the sun actually causes your paint to lose its oil content and start to develop a dull, rough finish and eventually, lose its color pigment. There’s usually no coming back from severe cases or cases in which the car lacks a clear coat, but there are ways to make it look better. Our Orlando Toyota body shop is here with tips on how to handle this type of car paint damage.

How to prevent and treat this type of car paint damage
Tip #1: Prevention is key. The best way to handle car paint oxidization is to try and prevent it from happening in the first place. How? By parking your car under cover as much as you can – a garage is best, but a carport or even trees that provide some shade can help ward off sun damage to your vehicle. If you aren’t able to park under any cover, you may want to consider investing in a car cover to protect your vehicle when it’s sitting out in the elements. You should also regularly apply wax. A solid coat of quality wax can help prevent sun damage (and also keeps moisture away) to keep your paint bright and shiny.
Tip #2: Get the right tools. If you’re going to try to spruce up your car paint DIY style, you’re going to need the right tools. Shop our Toyota of Orlando parts store for:
- Car soap and a sponge
- A few soft microfiber towels
- An electric buffer with soft pads
- Car rubbing compound
- Car polish and wax
- Automotive tape
Tip #3: Get to work. Here are the quick steps you can take to try and reduce car paint oxidization. Note: This will only work if you have a clear coat on your car.
- First, wash your car thoroughly and park it in the shade to dry it off with the microfiber towels. Direct sunlight is no good for rubbing compound, polish, or wax.
- Next, tape off all of the plastic and chrome pieces in the area where you’re working.
- Apply a small amount of rubbing compound to the area and then use the electric buffer to work it into the paint. Go slow, use the slowest setting, and put the softest pad on the buffer. It’ll take time, so don’t rush or apply too much pressure. If it doesn’t seem to be working, you can swap out the buffer pad for one that’s more heavy-duty and use a higher speed.
- Wipe off the excess compound and repeat the process with polish.
- Wipe off the excess polish and use a quality car wax to apply a couple of coats of wax to the entire car.
Schedule car paint oxidization repairs at Toyota of Orlando
If the above steps don’t seem to make a difference on your Orlando Toyota (or you don’t have a clear coat), then it’s time to bring in the professionals. Let the Orlando Toyota body shop take a look at it and get the process started on your car paint job to bring your car back to like-new condition. We’re conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can call us at (407) 298-0001 today! Come by for a free estimate – your car is in good hands.

