Are you thinking about hitting the road this summer? July 4th is coming up fast and Labor Day Weekend isn’t far behind. Plus, it’s summer and the perfect time to hit the highway is when the kids are out of school. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you with one of the most tedious parts of a road trip – packing the car. We’ve got tips on how to safely and efficiently pack your ride so you can get to the fun parts of your summer vacation.

Do you know how to pack a car?

Tip #1: Put the heavy stuff on the bottom. 

When you pack a car, you want to put all heavy items in the cargo area of your car and obviously, stack them on the bottom of the pile so they don’t smash anything else (put fragile items somewhere else or at least on the top of the pile). Also, be sure to put the heavy items toward the center of the vehicle to keep weight distributed equally when you pack a car. Always avoid putting heavy items in the roof racks of your car; this throws off your vehicle’s center of gravity and can up your chances of the car tipping or rolling over in an accident.

Tip #2: Pack separate bags.

It’s a lot to pack a car with separate bags, we know. But packing special bags can save you a lot of time and money! First, you should pack a bag that has your road trip necessities in it. This means snacks, drinks, chargers, maps, and anything you need to keep you and the kids occupied. Also, don’t forget to pack a first aid kit and any medications you need to have on hand. You should pack one of these bags for your four-legged friends, too. Second, you should pack an overnight bag if you’re planning to stop and stay in a hotel during the course of your road trip. Pack this bag with the essentials, including changes of clothing, toiletries, etc.. Put it at the top of your luggage so when you stop, you can easily grab it and take it into the hotel without having to lug ALL your luggage.

Tip #3: Keep your field of vision clear. 

It’s tempting to stack luggage to the ceiling of your car in order to maximize space when you pack a car… don’t give into the temptation. This impedes your field of vision and is very dangerous (and you can actually get into trouble for doing it, too). Be sure to leave a clear field so you can properly use your rearview mirror and check your blind spots.

Use these Orlando Toyota tips to pack a car with ease

Tip #4: Check the specs if you’re towing or hauling. 

If you’re going to be using roof racks or towing something behind you, be sure your car can handle the weight. Our Orlando Toyota sales specialists can help you figure out the specs or you can check your owner’s manual. Also make sure you’ve installed the racks or tow hitch properly so you can get to your final destination safely – our Orlando auto service team can help you with that!

Want to make sure your car is ready to hit the road before you leave? Visit the Toyota of Orlando auto service center to check  your tires, brakes, headlights, wipers, battery, and fluids! We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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When it comes to shopping for a new Toyota truck, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are so many options for you to consider and it can be challenging to narrow them down AND make sure everything fits in your budget. Toyota of Orlando is here with tips to help streamline the process and make you feel more confident in your decision. Let’s get started!

Tip #1: Be prepared for the price tag. 

Trucks are just more expensive than cars no matter where you buy them from – they’re designed with specific performance abilities in mind, like towing, hauling, and off-roading. This means bigger engines, more performance features, and more going on under the hood. Subsequently, they tend to cost more than your run-of-the-mill sedan or hatchback! Be prepared before you consider buying a Toyota truck so you’re not thrown off by the higher price.

Tip #2: Outline WHY you need the truck. 

Why are you buying a Toyota truck? Will you be using it for towing a boat or trailer? Taking it off the pavement to hit the trails? Or maybe hauling heavy supplies for a job? Whatever your needs, be sure to outline them before you start shopping. This question can narrow the field of options very efficiently for you. Make a list of the specific features you’ll need to achieve your performance goals.

Tip #3: Decide on an engine as well as duty type. 

Asking yourself “why” you want the Toyota truck in question will help you answer this question. Your towing and hauling needs (in terms of how much weight) will help determine what size engine you need, as well as whether you need a light-, medium-, or heavy-duty Toyota truck. Obviously, light can handle the least amount of weight while heavy handles the most. Numbers vary by make and model, but you’ll be able to sit down and look at the specifications for the truck you’re considering to determine what you need.

Tip #4: Choose your trim-level and other options. 

You’ll also need to choose things like bed size (at Toyota of Orlando, they come in long, regular, and short) as well as cab size – how many people do you need to fit inside the cabin? Trim-level is another option, and it determines which features you’ll have in terms of style, technology, convenience, and more. Making these decisions should help you pinpoint a specific Toyota truck.

Tip #5: Figure out your registration and licensing. 

Once you’ve signed the dotted line, will anything change in terms of your license or registration – bigger trucks sometimes require extra fees or special licensing! Your insurance costs could also go up. Be prepared for the increased finances and do your due diligence to ensure they can fit into your budget.

Are you ready to shop for a new Toyota truck? Call Toyota of Orlando today to schedule your test drive – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500. Explore our selection AND our specials today!

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Do you know how to thoroughly inspect a used car before you sign the dotted line? Some people are unnerved by buying pre-owned, but the best way to get peace of mind and ensure you take home a reliable ride at a great price is to do a little legwork. Toyota of Orlando is here to help you educate yourself AND find the perfect pre-owned solution – check out our used car inspection checklist and be sure to take it with you when it’s time for your test drive.

Toyota of Orlando has a checklist for used car inspections

First things first – let’s talk about initial appearances of the used car in question.

1. Is the body of the car free from damage like dents, scratches, and dings?
2. Do you see any mismatched paint or uneven panels?
3. Do all of the doors and trunk open and close properly?
4. Do you see rust anywhere on the body or the car? Check everything, including the trunk.
5. How is the glass on the car – are there any cracks or chips?
6. Are the tires in good shape? Do they have any damage? Do they have the right amount of tread?

Now let’s talk about the interior since that’s where you’ll probably be headed next. Here are our Orlando Toyota tips for inspecting the cabin:

1. Is the upholstery clean and odor-free?
2. Is the headliner still attached to the ceiling?
3. Do the windows all work properly?
4. Do the power door and window locks work?
5. Do you see any dashboard lights that stay illuminated after you start the car?
6. Do the A/C and heat turn on and blow efficiently?
7. Does the technology work? We’re talking audio, Bluetooth, interior lights, turn signals, and headlights.
8. Test the windshield wipers and wiper fluid to ensure they all work.
9. Can you easily adjust the front seats in the car and fold down the back ones?
10. Does the sunroof open and close?
11. Does the parking brake work?
12. Is there an inflated spare tire with a kit in the trunk?
13. Does the key fob work to unlock the doors? Is there a spare if the key fob gives out on you?
14. Are there signs of mildew or mold anywhere on the interior, including the trunk?

And we can’t forget performance – this is one of the most important things to consider when shopping used cars. Make sure you check these points:

1. Pop the hood – do you see any rust in the engine bay?
2. Are the battery terminals corroded or rusted?
3. Look under the car – do you see any leaks?
4. When you turn the car on, do you see any smoke coming out of the exhaust?
5. Do you smell or hear anything odd when the engine is running?
6. Does the car shake or vibrate when it’s in motion?
7. Are the brakes responsive? Do they grind or make noise when you hit them? Do they cause the car to pull to one side when used?
8. Does the car shift smoothly in between gears?
9. Does the car reverse smoothly and without noise?

And finally, don’t forget to take note of elements like:

1. The car’s mileage – does it match the CarFax report?
2. Does the owner have the title for you if it’s a private sale?
3. What year is the car?
4. Was the car on when you got there? If so, turn it off and then start it again.

Shop all of our Orlando pre-owned inventory today!

When you’re ready to shop Orlando used cars, bring this list with you – it’ll help you stay organized and get answers to all of your questions. Give us a call when you feel prepared to hit the lot – we’re ready and waiting at (407) 298-4500 to schedule your test drive!

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How confident do you feel when it comes to car transmissions? Most people have a basic knowledge when it comes to this important car part – there’s a manual option and an automatic option. However, it goes a little bit deeper than that! Toyota of Orlando is here to arm you with knowledge so you can shop for the right type of transmission AND keep it in good shape once you’re a car owner. Let’s get started!

What types of car transmissions exist?

If you recall, manual transmissions require the driver to actually shift the gears themselves with a clutch and gear shift. Automatics, on the other hand, do this electronically and the driver only has to shift between park, neutral, drive, and reverse. However, there are more options than just these!

1. Conventional automatic: This type uses gears and an electronically-controlled clutch pack to get things moving alongside a torque converter – no shifting on the driver’s part.
2. Automated manual: This is an automatic transmission that has the option of paddle shifters, but doesn’t have a clutch pedal and is capable of shifting via a computer (rather than having the driver shift).
3. Continuously variable: This type is automatic, but instead of using gears to shift, it uses pulleys and a computer and maximizes fuel efficiency.
4. Dual-clutch automated manual: This automatic has two different gear shafts, and it electronically shifts between them.

How do you care for this very important car part?

So, once you’ve decided on a type of transmission and signed the dotted line, how do you take care of it? Here are some tips from our Orlando auto service techs:

• Check your transmission fluid regularly – if you’re not sure how to check it, then have one of our techs take a look next time you bring your car in for routine maintenance. It also needs to be replaced on a routine basis!
• Replace the filter as needed to ensure the system stays clean and debris-free.
• Have the system flushed and cleaned regularly to keep it working at maximum capacity.
• Replace the pan gasket – it gets worn out over time, so you should have our Orlando auto service techs replace it when it’s looking worse for the wear.

And what are some warning signs your car may need a little attention? Bring it in to see us if you spot any of the following:

• The check engine light comes on in the dash
• You have fluid leaks under your car
• Your gears sound like they’re grinding when they shift the car, especially in a manual
• Your car seems to hesitate before shifting
• You hear odd noises when the car shifts between gears
• You smell a sweet, burning smell coming from the engine bay

If you notice any of the above, it’s time to make an Orlando auto repairs appointment to get to the root of the problem so you can get back out on the road.

Need to schedule service? Call Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. Call us at (407) 298-4501 to get things rolling!

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Are you hitting the highway to celebrate the big red, white, and blue weekend ahead of us? You’re not alone! July 4th is one of the busiest weekends for road trip travel in the US. Not only is it a holiday, the kids are out of school so it’s a prime time for families to plan a getaway. Toyota of Orlando is here with 6 road trip travel tips to help you hit the roads safely and efficiently this weekend!

Use these road trip travel tips to make the most of your July 4th weekend

• Book your hotel ahead of time. Remember, this is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year, so we don’t recommend rolling into town without a reservation and hoping you can find a place to stay. Save yourself the stress and book ahead of time, even if it’s only a few days before your departure. And remember to ask about parking – is it included in the hotel, or will you have to secure street parking in high season?
• Check traffic and weather before you leave. Before you actually get into the driver’s seat, check the traffic and weather where you are, along your route, and in your final destination. This can help you figure out how long it’s going to take you to get where you need to go, if you’re going to need to stop overnight, and what sort of weather you’ll be facing during your road trip. It’ll also ensure you’ve packed all of the necessary supplies for your getaway (like raincoats and umbrellas or extra sunscreen!).
• Leave plenty of time for your journey. Don’t rush! Rushing leads to collisions because you tend to be more aggressive if you’re in a hurry. Take your time getting to your final destination… and that means leaving extra time to get where you need to go. This is why our Orlando Toyota dealership recommends checking traffic before you leave so you’re aware of any delays and can plan your road trip accordingly.

Orlando Toyota travel tips for holiday weekends

• Be ready for the heat. Summer = heat, no matter where you’re headed. Make sure you take the time to cool the car off before you all pile in, and bring along plenty of water for you, your passengers, and your four-legged friends. Also, ensure your car is ready to beat the heat! Get that oil change, check your coolant levels, and make sure your A/C is working well before you start your road trip. The Toyota of Orlando service center can help you get ready to hit the highway in the heat.
• Be careful taking fireworks across state lines. Some fireworks are illegal in some states, so if you’re planning on taking fireworks across state lines, be sure to look up the logistics in case you get pulled over.
• Prepare for other drivers under the influence. July 4th is a big party weekend. Our most important travel tip is to ensure that you watch out for intoxicated drivers on the road with you. If you encounter one, be sure to call the police and report them (never try to stop them yourself).

And most importantly? Buckle up!

Happy July 4th from Toyota of Orlando and friends. Call us today for auto service before your road trip at (407) 298-4500!

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We’ve all been there – you’re cruising down the highway or making your way home on crowded city streets and you hear a weird noise. You turn down the radio to make sure it wasn’t just in the song you’re listening to, and you hear it again… cue the dread. Unknown noises can mean problems with your vehicle, and that’s why they’re so important to address immediately.  Maybe you’re heading a high-pitched squeal from the car when you’re moving, maybe you’re hearing a buzzing noise under your car when it’s off, maybe your car sounds like a vacuum (and you know it shouldn’t). Whatever it is, Toyota of Orlando is here with 10 car noises you should NEVER ignore!

Never ignore these meaningful car noises

1. Flapping – Flapping noises can indicate that something is loose or hanging underneath or on the car. It can also mean a malfunctioning fan or broken belt. If you can’t pinpoint where it’s coming from, bring your ride to Toyota of Orlando.
2. Squealing when you brake – Your brakes have sensors built into them and when your brake pads get too thin, the sensors go off when you brake – that’s the squealing noise. Be sure to bring your car in for brake service if you hear this car noise before you damage your car’s rotors.
3. Knocking sounds under the hood – This car noise may indicate a problem with the type of fuel you’re using, so let our Toyota service techs check it out for you before you fill up again. Also, be sure to use the fuel indicated in your owner’s manual!
4. Any sound when you’re making a turn – If you hear anything when you’re making a turn, then you should bring your car to Toyota of Orlando to have it checked. Sounds when turning can indicate a problem with your steering system, which can be dangerous.
5. Hissing under the hood – This car noise may mean that you’ve got a car leak somewhere under the hood; when the liquid hits something hot, it makes a sizzling or hissing sound. Let our techs inspect. Other sounds to look out for when your car is off include buzzing noises.
6. Grinding when shifting gears – If you drive a manual transmission car and hear grinding when you shift, you’ve most likely got an issue with your clutch. It’s only going to get worse, so don’t delay having it checked.
7. Car making rattling noises when you’re in motion – If your car is making rattling noises and you know it’s not anything inside the cabin or trunk, it could be that something in your exhaust system is loose and rattling. Have it checked! You should also take note of weird noises when you’re accelerating – your car making rattling noises at any point in your drive time is not normal.
8. Clicking under the hood – This car noise can indicate low oil pressure, which can turn out to be a big mess if it’s not remedied! Bring your car in for service as soon as you can.
9. A loud bang – Also known as a backfire, this sound can mean that you’ve got problems with your catalytic converter or exhaust system. Bring it into our Toyota service center for an inspection. Conversely, if your car won’t start and sounds like a vacuum, you’ll also need to visit our auto service techs.
10. High-pitched squeal from car when moving – If you hear a high-pitched squeal from your car when moving or when pushing the gas, you may have a problem with belts slipping or malfunctioning. It won’t fix itself so don’t ignore it!

Schedule Orlando auto service today!

There can be multiple reasons why you’re hearing odd noises coming from your car. For example, if you’re hearing a Toyota Camry Hybrid steering groan, it could mean a few different things. It could be a failing rack and pinion (something that happens more frequently on hybrid and electric cars), a damaged strut, or bad ball joints. Damaged tie rod ends can also cause a Camry hybrid steering groan – you really never know, so it’s important to have the experts take a look.

Concerned about car noises? Don’t delay – schedule Orlando auto service today at our dealership! We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.

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We’ve been waiting for the new Toyota Supra for what feels like ages – ever since this ultra-popular sports car was retired in 2002, people have been clamoring to get it back on the road. Toyota listened, and an updated model has been in the works for a few years. A new prototype and brand-new information were just released and Toyota of Orlando is here with the details.

What will the new Toyota Supra have to offer?

As noted, this is just a prototype – it’s not what’s going to be hitting dealership lots when the Toyota Supra is up for grabs. However, there most likely will be similarities in the street-ready model, which is why we’re so excited to share the info that was recently revealed.

• The 2019 Toyota Supra will strut its stuff on the race track on February 16, 2019. That’s when it’ll be debuted at the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
• This souped-up ride will be sporting an inline-six front-mounted engine… and rumor has it that the engine will be a turbocharged 3.0 liter for some serious get-up-and-go.
• With an engine like that under the hood, you know you’re in for some serious horsepower – 335, to be exact. On top of that you’ll find 369 lb-ft of torque at your fingertips.
• All of that power means the new Toyota Supra prototype can easily get from 0-60mph in just four and a half-seconds.
• However, there may be a more manageable option for drivers who don’t want QUITE that much get-up-and-go for a normal ride. Toyota is toying with the idea of an entry-level model that offers a still-promising 2.0L 4-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower available.

Check out some of our other powerful Orlando Toyota options

Looking to get your hands on a seriously powerful ride but not sure you can wait for the Toyota Supra? Check out some of the other options on the table at Toyota of Orlando!

• Toyota 4Runner: This seriously versatile SUV is perfect for work AND play with its lux interior, top technology, and powerful performance. You’ll find a 4.0L V6 engine under the hood which provides 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.
• Toyota Tacoma: Looking for a quick truck that’s perfect for off-road adventures? Check out the powerful new Toyota Tacoma! This best-selling truck has a cult following due to its incredible off-road capabilities and sporty style. It’s also packing a punch with a 3.5L V6 engine that offers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
• Toyota 86: Got a hankering to get behind the wheel of a sports car? Check out the popular Toyota 86 – it’s got sports car style and a great performance with an affordable price tag attached to it. It’s also showcasing a 2.0L horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder engine that manages 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque.

Why not test drive them all? They’re ready and waiting for you at Toyota of Orlando today!

We’ll keep you posted on when more information about the Toyota Supra is headed your way AND when we get a release date for the street-ready model. In the meantime, schedule your test drive in one of our other sporty options. We’re open until 10pm every single day at (407) 298-4500, or you can just swing by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. We’ll see you soon!

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Thinking about sinking your hard-earned money into a used car? Before you sign the paperwork, you have to carefully consider if this is the right ride for you. This is especially true when you buy from a private seller. Dealerships are held to certain standards by state and federal laws, and they also have a reputation to protect when it comes to providing vehicles. That’s why it’s so important to ask the right questions of a private seller BEFORE you sign the dotted line. Here are our Orlando Toyota tips – check out these five questions we recommend getting answers for before you buy!

#1: Why are you selling the car? 

This is an important question to ask right off the bat. Why are they getting rid of their used car? Make sure their answer makes sense and doesn’t sound evasive or sneaky. If you have a bad gut feeling about it, you should do a little more leg-work before you decide to hand over your hard-earned cash.

What questions should you ask when privately buying a used car?

#2: How many miles are on it? 

It’s important to ask about mileage because you want to verify that the number they give you matches the number on the used car history report. If it’s different, you’re entitled to ask why (and walk away if you want – if they’re being untruthful about mileage, who knows what else they’re lying about?). You can also ask if the mileage is mostly city, mostly highway, or a mix of both. Remember, highway miles are harder on a car than city miles because cars have to travel at high speeds over long distances on the highway and it makes the engine work overtime.

#3: Has the car had any other owners? 

If there have been previous owners, how many? The more owners a car has had in the past, the more possible it is that you run into problems down the road. It’s hard to keep track of maintenance and repairs when there’s been a whole slew of people behind the wheel.

#4: Has it been in any accidents or collisions? 

This is another truth test – accidents and collision should be reported and should show on the CarFax. Make sure the seller’s answer matches the CarFax report and be sure to inspect the car for any damages that might give away an accident, like dents, mismatched paint, or panels that don’t quite meet up.

#5: What kind of paperwork can you provide for it? 

Always ask for any paperwork you can get your hands on. This includes service and repair records, receipts for parts and accessories, and any warranties that may still apply when you take ownership of the car.

Toyota of Orlando can help you find a reliable ride

Once you’ve done your research and asked the right questions, be sure to take the car for a test drive to see how it handles and take note of anything that seems out of the ordinary. However, if you think you’re looking at a dud and want to shop quality, reliable used cars, come on down to Toyota of Orlando! We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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Unfortunately, accidents and collisions are included risks when it comes to driving. They can happen at any time to any one and that’s why Toyota has invested a lot of time and effort into making their vehicles as safe to drive as possible. A new vehicle safety feature that comes standard on many new Orlando Toyota models, Toyota Safety Sense P, works behind the scenes to keep you safe wherever you drive. But, you may be asking, what does Toyota Safety Sense P include and how does it keep me safe? Thankfully, Toyota of Orlando is here to answer those questions and more with our guide on this new vehicle safety feature.

What’s included in this vehicle safety feature?

Toyota Safety Sense P comes standard in several new Orlando Toyota models such as the:

• Toyota Yaris
• Toyota Highlander, Highlander Hybrid
• Toyota Sienna
• Toyota Corolla, Corolla Hatchback
• Toyota Avalon, Avalon Hybrid
• Toyota RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid
• Toyota Prius, Prius C, Prius Prime
• Toyota Sequoia
• Toyota C-HR
• Toyota Tundra
• Toyota Tacoma
• Toyota Land Cruiser
• Toyota Camry

This vehicle safety feature is enhanced with several active systems that keep you safe during your commute. Here are the key highlights and what to expect from your new Orlando Toyota regarding safety:

Lane Departure Alert

Lane Departure Alert is designed to keep your Orlando Toyota vehicle in its lane by alerting drivers if they start to drift unexpectedly. This vehicle safety feature is activated after your vehicle reaches an excess speed of 32 mph or more and uses a specific noise as part of its warning system. Drivers using this feature should take notice that it’s been activated and check their immediate surroundings before returning to the center of their original lane.

Automatic High Beams

Driving in a low light area at night can make it difficult to see but using your high beams can also pose a hazard to drivers commuting the opposing way from you. This feature activates at speeds of 25 mph or greater and uses onboard cameras to detect the headlights of other vehicles driving around you. If other vehicles are sensed near your Orlando Toyota vehicle, the high beam lights will toggle themselves.

Pre-collision System

Driving around Orlando with bumper to bumper traffic wherever you go is a recipe for a fender bender. Luckily, Toyota Safety Sense P includes a pre-collision system that works to help you avoid that. Using an integrated camera and laser/radar technology, the pre-collision system warns drivers of imminent vehicles and when to apply the brakes. If a driver applies the brakes, the system may apply additional force or even brake for you if you don’t in time.

Pedestrian Detection

Using the same technology as the Pre-collision System, Pedestrian Detection aims to help drivers avoid colliding with pedestrians and other obstacles that could get in your driving path. This vehicle safety feature uses the same audio and visual warnings and applies the brake assistance like the Pre-collision System.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control

Running into an upcoming vehicle while in cruise control can be both annoying and hazardous. Included with Toyota Safety Sense P is Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. This Orlando Toyota vehicle safety feature uses an onboard camera and radar to detect upcoming vehicles and their speeds. The vehicle safety system will warn the driver and then adjust your current speed to cruise at a preset range and then resume when the vehicle in front of you is gone.

Road Sign Assist

This new safety feature makes it easier for drivers to discern which road signs are coming their way. By using front-facing intelligent cameras, this vehicle safety feature displays images of important road signs on the MID screen for convenience and less distraction while driving.

Lane Tracing Assist

Working in conjunction with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist keeps your Orlando Toyota vehicle centered in your lane by detecting lane markers and correcting your position as you drive. This vehicle safety feature is only available with automatic transmission models.

Come see more safety features at Toyota of Orlando

If your ready for a vehicle safety upgrade, come visit us at Toyota of Orlando! We have a great selection of new Toyota vehicles, all equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, just waiting to be test driven. Visit the dealership at 3575 Vineland Road today!

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It’s an extreme heat day today in Central Florida – with the heat index, temps are likely to climb up to 105. Local news stations are warning residents to limit their time outside and avoid the sun. It’s not too difficult to protect yourself from the heat (just aim for air-conditioning whenever possible), but how do you protect your ride? Extreme heat can also be damaging to your vehicle and our Orlando Toyota service techs are here with 6 tips to help you protect your vehicle through the summer.

Beat the heat with these Toyota service tips

Tip #1: Buy a sunshade for the windshield and get your windows tinted. The best way to protect your car’s interior from the heat and sun is to tint your windows and buy a good sunshade. (We can help you with both at our Orlando Toyota service center). Tint and a sunshade will prevent UV rays from fading your car’s interior and will also help to keep the cabin cooler so when it’s time for you to get behind the wheel, it’s not unbearably hot.

Tip #2: Crack your windows. Crack your windows when it’s extremely hot outside! This lets heat escape the cabin so it’s not quite as stifling. However, make sure that you’re parked under the shade OR that you have window rain guards installed in case of those notorious summer thunderstorms we get here in Central Florida.

Tip #3: Park in the shade whenever possible. Even if you have rain guards and tint and a sunshade, it’s still best to park in the shade whenever you can. This will help protect the interior but also help to protect your paint from fading AND keep the interior cooler.

Tip #4: Condition leather seats. You want to keep your leather well-conditioned so the heat doesn’t dry it out and subsequently, cause it to crack or tear. Apply conditioner regularly and also consider seat covers; these will help protect your seats from the sun.

Tip #5: Stay up to date on all auto service. It’s essential to stay on top of routine Toyota service to keep everything under the hood cool. This means getting routine oil changes, checking your coolant, making sure your tires are in good condition, and inspecting your battery on a regular basis. Everything under the hood can be negatively affected by extreme heat, so ensure you stay on your Toyota service schedule and take note of anything out of the ordinary.

Tip #6: Detail the exterior regularly. It’s important to protect your paint from the heat, which can damage and fade it. Make sure you routinely wash your can and apply protective wax to prevent damage.

Schedule Orlando car maintenance to keep things under the hood cool

Need supplies or want to ensure you’re up to date on routine car maintenance? Call Toyota of Orlando today! Our Toyota service center is open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001 and we’re ready to help you beat the heat this summer!

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