If you just bought your very first car… CONGRATS! Buying a vehicle is a huge step and something to be proud of. With car ownership, though, comes a lot of responsibility. A vehicle is a big investment, so you want to do everything you can to keep it in like-new condition – it’ll not only give you the best performance possible but also ensure you retain value so you can get more bang for your buck if you want to sell it in the future. Luckily for you, our Orlando auto service techs have put together a few car care tips for first-time car owners!

Learn how to care for your first car like a pro

Tip #1: Never ignore a warning light, weird smell, or odd noise. 

It’s tempting to pretend you don’t see that warning light in the dash or to turn up the radio to drown out that odd sound you keep hearing. After all, who knows how much it’ll cost to fix? Don’t give into the temptation! Delaying necessary car repairs can just make issues evolve into bigger, more expensive, and more serious issues down the road. If something is off with your ride, bring it into Toyota of Orlando so our techs can check things over for you.

Tip #2: Take a look at the owner’s manual as soon as you buy the car. 

The owner’s manual is basically a bible for your car. It’ll give you all the information you need to know to be a responsible owner, including things like what service schedule to follow, which oil to use, which gasoline you should put in the tank, and more. Skim through it so you have a basic idea of how to handle car care, and keep it close by (like in the glovebox) for your reference.

Tip #3: Get your vehicle on a car care schedule with a mechanic. 

The best way to take excellent care of your vehicle is to immediately put it on a car care schedule. This way, you never miss an important service like an oil change, tire rotation, or inspection. Toyota of Orlando’s service techs can help you set up the right schedule for your vehicle’s needs and keep you on it, sending you reminders when you’re due to come in for a visit.

Tip #4: Know how to handle car care emergencies. 

Knowing how to handle car care emergencies quickly and efficiently can save you a lot of time and money. Educate yourself on how to deal with common ones, like a flat tire, an overheated car, a dead batter, and collisions/accidents BEFORE you start hitting the road regularly.

Tip #5: Detail your car inside and out on a regular basis. 

A big part of car maintenance is keeping your car LOOKING like-new, too! This helps retain value and prevent problems like rust, mold, and mildew. Be sure to thoroughly detail the inside and outside of your car on a routine basis to protect it from the elements and keep it in the best shape possible.

Let Toyota of Orlando get you on a maintenance schedule today

Need help getting on a car care schedule? Call Toyota of Orlando today and talk to one of our techs at (407) 298-0001!

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Toyota is a vehicle manufacturer with an impressive roster of diverse vehicles meant to suit the needs of any and all drivers. Everything from the Toyota 86 to the Tundra has features that are meant to service drivers with whatever their needs are. While Toyota’s lineup includes several great nameplates like the Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, and 4Runner, there used to be several more back in the day. This truck is known for its rugged toughness and extreme capability, and a Back to the Future cameo (that’s most likely where you know it from).

The Orlando Toyota Hilux is a truck that’s developed a reputation as a truly tough truck. Top Gear drowned one in the ocean, let it fall from atop a demolishing building, and set it on fire and repaired it using basic tools. The truck still ran and made history as one of the most durable vehicles out there. But, why is it not available in the states anymore and where can you find one today? Toyota of Orlando has the details on the Toyota Hilux, check it out!

The Story of the Toyota Hilux

The legendary Toyota Hilux was, at one point, a staple in the North American market. It was introduced with a 1.5L I4 engine and was available with regular cab and short bed modifications. For its second generation, the Hilux featured an upgraded engine and more comfortable interior.

The Orlando Toyota Hilux continued going strong and Toyota eventually reached an agreement with Winnebago Industries that allowed them to enter the SUV market. This lead to the development of the Hilux Surf, which eventually became the 4Runner.

It wasn’t until the fifth generation of the Orland Toyota Hilux that it was cancelled from the North American lineup. Oddly enough, Volkswagen manufactured the Hilux under their own nameplate, the Taro, from 1989 to 1997. The Hilux was replaced by the Toyota Tacoma in 1995 in North America but continued to be sold in South America. It was also cancelled in Japan in 2005.

Where’s the Toyota Hilux Now? 

While this iconic Orlando Toyota truck was cancelled in North America and Japan, the Toyota Hilux is still available in countries like South Africa, Thailand, and Australia. Recently, a GR racing edition of Hilux was made available in South Africa in very limited supply. There’s also talks of introducing an EV model by 2025.

This truck is available with engine sizes like 2.0, 2.4, 2.5, 2.7, 2.8, 3.0, and 4.0 liter sizes with inline-4 and V6 variants. For many drivers, the Orlando Toyota Hilux is a highly capable and customizable ride that can’t be stopped. It may be gone from the North American market, but we still have an iconic compact truck to lean on.

The Toyota Tacoma is a unique truck that features near-limitless combinations and accessories to customize it. It can be used as a regular commuting vehicle, an off-roading vehicle, or a working one. Whatever you need it for, this Toyota Hilux replacement is worth checking out. Make sure to stop by Toyota of Orlando at 3575 Vineland Road and check out our Toyota Tacoma inventory!

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Sure, it’s fun to hit the highway and cruise city streets to find your dose of adventure. But if you had the chance to take things off the beaten path, would you? In order to get off the pavement you need the right ride and believe it or not, we have a solution that you may not consider when it comes to rough-and-ready vehicles – the Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser. We’re here to talk to you about this versatile SUV and give you the scoop on a recently noticed 1985 model that’s ready for anything. Check it out!

You’ll love this custom 1985 Toyota Land Cruiser

First of all, it’s important to keep in mind that while the new Toyota Land Cruiser is all about luxury, it’s also got major performance elements woven into it because it was originally designed to be an off-roading maverick. When it came to fruition in the 1940s, this Orlando Toyota was actually a military vehicle, and it’s never strayed too far from its roots when it comes to performance.

We recently scoped a 1985 Toyota Land Cruiser listed for sale by a private seller on the internet, and we were pretty impressed by the mods and capabilities that it has to offer its new owner. It’s truly ready for anything, and here’s what it’s packing to prove that point:

• A new suspension composed of Old Man Emu springs, Boss airbags, two extra lead springs in the rear, and a sway bar
• A newer 350 cubic-inch Ram Jet V8 engine with a 5-speed manual transmission for ultimate control
• A large roof basket with the ability to hold six fuel tanks AND an attached awning to give you some shade should you decide to pull over and take in the view
• Mud-terrain tires with two spares – one is hooked onto the back of this Toyota Land Cruiser and one is stored in the spacious roof basket
• A 40-gallon fuel tank to get you further (the original tank of this Orlando Toyota holds around 23 gallons)
• A snorkel to allow you to tackle water crossings without a problem
• TWO batteries used to power both the vehicle and all of its accessories, as well as a 100-watt solar panel to add a little more oomph to the equation
• A WagonGear storage system attached to the tow hitch for more cargo space, and extra cabin storage with custom dashboard drawers
• 360 degree flood lamp lighting, Hella H4 headlamps, and PIAA driving lights for the ultimate illumination

And while this Toyota Land Cruiser may have 305,000 miles listed on it, the new engine only accounts for around 55,000 of them. Obviously, this off-roading aficionado has a lot of life left in it.

See what this versatile Orlando Toyota can bring to your drive time today

And the good news? You can get the best of both worlds now – hit the road in a luxury vehicle that’s designed to keep you comfortable and connected, but take things off the pavement whenever you see fit thanks to all of the versatile performance features this Orlando Toyota has to offer.

Get behind the wheel today – call us at (407) 298-4500!

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Are you hitting the theme parks anytime soon? Summer can be a busy time to visit – it’s usually peak time, in fact, as tourists from all over the world flood Orlando and Central Florida to visit the Mouse and check out Harry Potter’s domain. However, that shouldn’t stop you from making your way out to the theme parks and putting your pass to use. Toyota of Orlando is here with theme park hacks to make your visit easy, seamless, and stress-free!

Make the most of your time with these theme park hacks

1. Start at the back. When the park opens, people tend to congregate around the front of it and explore what it has to offer. Head directly through the crowds to the back of the park where the crowds will be thinnest so you can take advantage of no lines before the crowd reaches you.

2. Hit the busy rides during shows and parades. Dying to ride Seven Dwarves Mine Train or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure? Try to hit the most popular rides in the park when everyone else is watching shows, fireworks, and parades to save yourself the time and hassle.

3. Take a picture of where you parked. A long day at the parks can be exhausting and the last thing you want to do is wander the parking lots to find your Orlando Toyota. Take a picture of the spot and row where you parked BEFORE you go in so it’s easy to locate your vehicle at the end of the day.

4. Have a designated meeting point in case your group gets separated. If you’re going with a big group, it’s easy for people to wander off or get separated in crowds and lines. Theme park hack: have a designated meeting spot where you can all congregate should you get separated.

These Orlando Toyota tips can make your visits even more magical

5. Use mobile ordering. Some parks let you order food via their mobile app ahead of time, so when you get to the restaurant all you have to do is swing through and pick it up. This theme park hack can save you time, especially when restaurants are at their busiest.

6. Get there extra-early. The early bird gets the work, right? Head to the theme parks right when they open. If you can get there for “rope drop” (official opening time), you can sprint for the back and save yourself a ton of time by avoiding crowds.

7. Download park apps on your phone. As noted, you should download the park app to your phone. Not only can you use mobile ordering, but you can also check fast passes, show and parade times, and wait times to see when you should hit your favorite rides. It’ll make your visit much more efficient.

8. BYO everything. All parks have different rules, but BYO EVERYTHING if you can. You can rent a locker to store it in, and you’ll save money by bringing things like snacks, empty water bottles to fill, medicine, a basic first aid kit, and ponchos.

From our Orlando Toyota family to yours, have a great visit to the parks and we hope these theme park hacks make your visit even more magical!

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Everyone knows that Toyota is committed to the environment. In fact, they were the frontrunners for the hybrid car movement; the iconic Orlando Toyota Prius was the first vehicle that really allowed drivers to go green with the turn of a key. But a new initiative is on the horizon and Toyota is working harder than ever to do its part to save Mother Earth through sustainability. Toyota of Orlando has the scoop!

What is the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050?

The initiative is called Toyota’s Environmental Challenge 2050, and it has five steps built into its roadmap to help increase sustainability and keep our planet nice and green. It’s goals? To achieve the following:

• Eliminate CO2 emissions from Orlando Toyotas by 90% from 2010 levels
• Minimize/optimize water usage
• Help create a recycling-based society
• Support biodiversity and work in harmony with nature
• Eliminate CO2 emissions from Toyota operations

And here are the steps they plan to take to make it happen.

5 steps to make sustainability happen

Step #1: To preserve national parks with old car batteries. To do so, Toyota plans to repurpose old Toyota Camry batteries and use them to store power collected by solar panels for future use. This will allow parks to rely more on solar power rather than diesel or propane to run their backup generators.

Step #2: To establish recyclable water systems – Toyota plans to increase sustainability at its operations by eliminating water waste, establish systems that use 100% recycled or reused water, spread word about water conservation, and help their major suppliers take the same initiatives. In fact, Toyota’s headquarters in Plano, TX has already implemented a rainwater harvesting system.

Step #3: To teach a recycle-first mindset. Toyota wants to increase its use of sustainable materials AND increase the life of its vehicles’ parts, eliminate waste disposal via recycling, and share insights with the community. Not only do they encourage their employees to recycle, but they’re also reducing raw material usage to do away with waste.

Step #4: To promote biodiversity in North America. Toyota will work to protect species across the country, conserve natural habitats, and share insights to help others do the same. Did you know that Toyota is helping to preserve areas of the Galapagos Islands to prevent contamination of the islands? They’re also working right here in the U.S., sustaining 1,000+ acres of wilderness at 12 different sites.

Step #5: To partner for a sustainable future. Toyota wants to share its expertise and experiences in sustainability with its partners and the community to help other major players achieve the same goals. Right now, Toyota sponsors National Public Lands Day, where volunteers dedicate hours on a massive scale to keep public lands pristine and clean.

Want to learn more about Toyota’s sustainability initiatives, or want to integrate a little more green into your drive time? Call Toyota of Orlando today to set up a test drive in one of our new Toyota hybrids. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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Are you shopping for a new SUV but not sure which make is going to suit you best? Why not make things easy and shop for a new Toyota? We have a wide variety of reliable, stylish, and performance-driven SUVs for sale so you can find the right ride for any need. Check out some of the selection below and get down to our Orlando Toyota dealership to shop options today!

Our Orlando Toyotas offer something for everyone

If you need something super family-friendly: 

If you’re in the market for a new SUV that’s exceptionally family-friendly, then you need to slide behind the wheel of the Toyota Highlander. This Orlando Toyota SUV is super spacious, offering three rows of seating for a total of 8 people, as well as a roomy cargo area, towing capabilities, and plenty of legroom. On top of that, it’s decked out with top safety technology like Toyota Safety Sense P, the Star Safety System, an Advanced Airbag System, and Safety Connect Services, just to name a few things. And you’ll love family-friendly convenience features like three-zone automatic climate conrol, a rear-seat Blu Ray Disc entertainment system, Bluetooth, and more!

If you’re taking things off-road: 

Want a spacious SUV for the workweek but trying to get things off the pavement on the weekend? Check out the 2019 Toyota 4Runner! This new Toyota SUV is decked out with performance-driven features designed to tackle any terrain. Get back in touch with nature with features like a 4.0L V6 engine, rear-wheel drive with automatic limited-slip differential, part-time or full-time four-wheel drive, active traction control, multi-terrain select, electronically-controlled locking rear differential, and reinforced body-on-frame construction.

If you want something compact and fuel-efficient: 

Want something a little more spacious than your standard sedan or crossover, but not wanting to shell out big bucks for gas or feel like your ride is bulky? Then check out the 2019 Toyota RAV4! This compact SUV is perfect for drivers who want fuel efficiency (26/35 mpg, to be exact, as well as a hybrid option) and something sporty but also want more interior room. This Toyota SUV seats five and has 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space so you’re ready for a road trip but won’t break the bank, no matter where your adventure takes you.

If you want luxury integrated into your daily drive time: 

Looking for luxury to take your drive time up a level? Check out the much-loved Toyota Land Cruiser. This Orlando Toyota SUV brings plush sophistication to your drive time with a soft leather interior, an Entune Premium JBL Audio System, the Smart Key System on on all doors as well as a push button start, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with two individual 11.6″ screens. You’ll also find multi-terrain select, a 5.7L V8 engine, and full-time four-wheel drive with active traction control.

Shop for a new Toyota SUV today!

As you can see, we’ve got something for everyone… so why not shop today? Toyota of Orlando is open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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Summer in Florida isn’t all about sunshine – in fact, it’s probably one of our rainiest seasons. Without fail we get afternoon storms almost every day and hurricanes are always a possibility in the sunshine state. In order to make the most of the summer and not let the weather rain on your parade, you need to prep your car. Toyota of Orlando is here to help. Check out these 5 simple auto service tips to get your car ready for driving in the rain.

5 auto service tips for driving in the rain

Tip #1: Regularly inspect your tires. 

You want your tires to offer you the best traction possible when driving in the rain, so you should regularly inspect them to ensure they’re able to do it. To offer proper traction in wet weather your tires need to be in good physical condition (without damage like bubbles, blisters, sidewall separation, or punctures) and should be inflated to the proper PSI, which you can find in your owner’s manual. Also, check tires to ensure they have enough tread for proper grip and if they don’t, have them replaced at our Orlando Toyota service center.

Tip #2: Get brake service on a routine basis. 

You want your brakes to ALWAYS work, but especially when the road is wet and you may find yourself making sudden stops. Get routine brake service to ensure the entire system is working properly – our Orlando auto service techs can put you on a schedule so you always have full stopping power on your side.

Tip #3: Make sure your defroster works. 

Humidity +heat + rain = major visibility issues. Make sure your defroster works properly so you can see out of your front AND back windows when the rain makes the glass foggy. If you’re having problems with it, let our techs take a peek.

Get the supplies and maintenance you need for rainy weather at Toyota of Orlando

Tip #4: Swap out your wiper blades regularly. 

It’s essential that your wipers work properly when you’re driving in the rain and that they’re clearing your windshield of water with every swipe. If you notice them leaving streaks, making chattering or squealing noises, or that they have physical damage, it’s time for a replacement set. Our Orlando auto parts techs can help you choose and install the right ones.

Tip #5: Check your headlights, taillights, and turn signals. 

You need to turn on your headlights when driving in the rain for better visibility (both for you and other drivers). Make sure they’re shining brightly and that the bulbs are working – this applies to taillights and turn signals, too. If your headlights are looking a little worse for the wear, consider headlight restoration to get them nice and bright again.

Whether you need to schedule Orlando auto service or shop our parts department for supplies, we can help you prepare for driving in the rain. Stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall, or call us for more information at (407) 298-4500.

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While the Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser is a pretty amazing vehicle, you can’t deny that it’s been a while since it was updated in terms of appearance. While it gets upgrades for technology every single year as well as slight appearance modifications, it hasn’t been redesigned for quite some time. That COULD be about to change – and Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on what the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser may be bringing to our dealership when it’s released.

What will the 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser bring to the table?

If a new Toyota Land Cruiser is being unveiled, it might make its big debut at the Tokyo Auto Show in November – it’s pure speculation up until that point (unless Toyota makes a formal announcement). Why would it be such a big deal? Well, the current model – the 200 series – has been around since 2006. As noted, it’s gotten some refreshes and upgrades, but essentially it’s the same model. If a new 300 series were to hit the market, it would certainly bring big changes to this polished SUV.

We don’t know much so far – like we said, it’s a lot of hope and speculation – but we do know that the new model would likely retain the body-on-frame construction for maximum comfort, as well as possibly swap out the current V8 engine for a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine that’s currently found in the Lexus LS 500. Other than that, it’s up in the air, but all signs are pointing to a major redesign on the horizon.

See this Orlando Toyota SUV in person today

But what makes the Orlando Toyota Land Cruiser such a much-loved option that one model can stretch almost 14 years without significant upgrades? Here are some of the highlights the current model has to offer:

• Off-road capabilities like multi-terrain select, CRAWL Control, four-wheel drive, and Active Traction Control as well as a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and towing capabilities of up to 8,100 lbs.
• A sleek interior decked out with perforated leather trim and cool wood-grain accent trim
• Seating for up to 8 with an additional 16.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Plus, the second and third row seats fold flat to give you plenty of space if you need it.
• An Entune Premium JBL Audio System  with a 9″ touchscreen, Bluetooth wireless streaming, HD Radio, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, and 14 JBL speakers
• A rear-seat DVD entertainment system with two individual 11.6″ screens and wireless headphones
• The Smart Key System on all doors and a Push Button Start
• Toyota Safety Sense P, the Star Safety System, and Safety Connect Services
• A four-zone automatic climate control system with pollen filtration mode
• A multi-terrain monitor with front, side, or rear views

And so much more.

Whether you wait for the 2020 model or decide to drive one home today, Toyota of Orlando can get you behind the wheel! Come check out the new Toyota Land Cruiser in person at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall. You can also call us for info and to set up an appointment at (407) 298-4500.

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When most people hear “exhaust system“, they typically just think of the tailpipes that stick out from under the back of their car. While they’re not totally wrong, there’s a lot more to the system than just the pipes in the back. Your exhaust system is integral to your car’s performance and also to preserving our planet. That’s why it’s important to not only maintain and repair it, but also to monitor it for any possible issues so you can take care of them as soon as possible. Check out some of the most common issues you’ll see with this important system and how to spot them below.

Troubleshoot your car’s exhaust system

Issue #1: Bad fuel efficiency 

Have you noticed your ride’s fuel efficiency suddenly dropping? This can be caused by an issue with the exhaust – if you’re losing power and acceleration, your car will try to overcompensate for it and end up using more gas. Bring it to Toyota of Orlando for an inspection ASAP.

Issue #2: A tailpipe that’s loose, rattling, or noticeably hanging down 

Can you actually see your car’s tailpipe hanging lower than it should, or do you hear it rattling when your ride is in motion? This can cause major damage to the rest of the system so don’t ignore it – let our techs reattach it properly so it can do its job.

Issue #3: Noises coming from the engine 

Do you hear strange hissing or tapping noises coming from under the hood? This can signify a leak in your car’s exhaust system – usually having to do with the manifold gasket. It’s not a quick fix you can take care of at home, so visit Toyota of Orlando to get it handled by our experts.

Issue #4: Gas odor inside the car’s cabin 

Do you keep getting whiffs of gasoline inside the cabin of your ride? Not only is this extremely bad for your health, but it also signifies that you have a major leak somewhere in your system. Do not delay bringing your car in – a gasoline leak can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and be fatal for you and your passengers.

Issue #5: A burning smell in the engine bay

Your car’s exhaust system stretches all the way from your engine through the undercarriage to the tailpipes – that’s a lot of ground to cover. If you have an issue with the gaskets in the system, exhaust fumes can build up and actually start to burn any plastic wiring components. This leads to a burning smell and even possible smoke down the road. Get it fixed right away!

Issue #6: Reduced acceleration and power 

Does it feel like your car is working overtime to get you where you need to go? If you notice that you have to push harder to get it to accelerate at a normal rate or that it loses power, it’s time for a service appointment to get to the bottom of things.

Schedule Orlando auto service today

Think you need Orlando auto service to get your exhaust system in order? Call us today to schedule at (407) 298-0001.

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School is back in session here in Orlando, which means traffic has definitely picked up and school zones are up and running again. While some drivers may think that all they have to do while driving in a school zone is slow down for a minute or two, there’s actually a good deal more to it than that. Check out our Orlando Toyota tips for safely driving in a school zone whether you’re headed back to class or not.

7 tips for taking on driving in school zones

#1: Slow down and anticipate lower speeds: School zones have lower speed limits to up the safety factor. You should slow down to the speed indicated on the road signs and also be sure to factor these lower speeds into the time you allow for your daily commute so you’re not late.

#2: Do away with all distracted driving. Put away your phone, stop fiddling with the radio, and save the breakfast for your desk. When driving in a school zone, you should be totally focused on the road and what’s going on around your Orlando Toyota. There are a lot of pedestrians, cars, and bicycles to watch out for.

#3: Be prepared to stop suddenly. With kids crossing the streets, bicycles making their way to class, and drivers pulling into the dropoff loop, you should be ready to come to a sudden stop without any notice… which is why we said to get rid of the distractions.

#4: Watch for pedestrians and crossing guards. School zones are very pedestrian heavy between students and crossing guards. Be on the lookout for them – scan the road and the sidewalks and look both ways before pulling through a stop sign to ensure no one is in the crosswalk. Be sure you always yield!

#5: Watch road signs. Pay close attention to the road signs so you know where school zones start and end and the speed and other rules you should abide by when driving in them.

Learn the rules of the road with Toyota of Orlando before you get behind the wheel

#6: Don’t pass the school bus. Don’t pass the bus in a school zone! They’re likely going the speed that you should be going and since they’re so large, it’s hard to see around them and anticipate other cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Plus, they’ll probably be stopping at the school for dropoff anyway. Similarly, don’t pass a stopped car on the road – see what’s going on first. They could be unloading passengers.

#7: Don’t block the crosswalks. Don’t block the crosswalks when driving in a school zone (or anytime, really) if you find yourself coming to a stop. Crosswalks are the safe way for kids to cross the street and get to campus.

And keep in mind that traffic WILL be heavier during back to school, especially as everyone gets back into the swing of things. Leave yourself extra time so you don’t feel the need to speed or drive aggressively to make it to your destination on time.

Want more back to school safety tips for driving in school zones? Call Toyota of Orlando today! We’re happy to help and we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500.

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