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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The weekend is here! As usual, the weather will be unpredictable – we may be called the Sunshine State, but Florida definitely gets its fair share of rain, especially in the summer. You can plan for the beach or the parks, but it’s always good to have a backup plan in case storm clouds start to gather. Toyota of Orlando has gathered a little list of contingencies for you – check it out!

#1: Orlando Science Center: The Orlando Science Center is great for kids and adults alike (and you can feel good that you’re doing something entertaining AND educational). You’ll find four stories of permanent exhibits about animals, energy, space, and more. There’s also an IMAX theatre, as well as traveling exhibits that stick around for a few months and then swap out.

#2: Dave and Buster’s: Dave and Buster’s is a sports fan’s dream. You can catch sports games on huge screen TVs, order food, have a few brews (just remember to find a DD or an Uber home), and soak up the atmosphere. If you’re not into watching sports, amuse yourself by playing the dozens of arcade games, shuffleboard, pool, or basketball located there. (Save your tickets and get prizes, too!)

#3: Bowling: Hit the bowling alley this weekend – you’ve got tons of options spread throughout the city of Orlando. Some of our favorites include Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs and King’s Dining and Entertainment on I-Drive. Both serve great food as well as cocktails and whether you’re a novice bowler or a pro, you’ll love the atmosphere at both alleys.

#4: SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: This beautiful aquarium is located on I-Drive so if it’s rainy, you can hole up inside and wander the interactive exhibits (there’s even a playground for the kiddos). If it’s sunny, take your time in the aquarium and then head out to I-Drive to explore the restaurants and other attractions, like Madame Tussaud’s.

#5: K1 Speed: Need a little thrill in your weekend but worried rain might throw a wrench into things? Check out K1 speed! This indoor go-kart track will let you get your adrenaline rush, and you can also relax in one of the spacious lounges, check out the racing memorabilia on display, or grab a snack from the snack bar. Who cares about the rain?

#6: Monkey Joes: Looking for a way to get your little ones to expend some energy when the weather isn’t conducive to the park or playground? Head to one of the Monkey Joes locations here in Orlando, where they can run around on the huge indoor bounce house playgrounds and you can relax in the cafe. There’s even an arcade for slightly older kids.

Rain or shine, you’ve got the weekend covered… and don’t forget that we’re open no matter the weather outside! Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road.

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Are you a fan of the Toyota FJ Cruiser? This much-loved Orlando Toyota SUV had quite the run – it was introduced into the market back in 2003 and was a popular option until it was discontinued by Toyota in 2014. Off-roaders and commuters alike loved it for its versatility, its reliable and durable performance, and its unique style (it was a throwback to the original FJ40). If you miss this fan favorite, then you’re in luck… it’s rumored that a new model that’s similar MAY be coming to fruition in Japan in the year 2020!

 

What is the Toyota TJ Cruiser?

Back in 2017, the Toyota TJ Cruiser was teased as a concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show. As we all know, concepts sometimes lead to nothing – sometimes, they’re just cool ideas but never make it onto the production line. Not with the Toyota TJ Cruiser. This part-SUV, part-minivan solution is supposedly hitting the market overseas in 2020, and Toyota of Orlando has the scoop on what it’ll offer when it arrives.

The exterior of the new Toyota TJ Cruiser is boxy but slightly reminiscent of the beloved Toyota FJ Cruiser. The interior seats 4, with a fold-down rear seat AND passenger seat so you can easily maximize your cargo space. However, some rumors indicate that a third-row bench seat will be an option. While the two front doors open regularly, the two back doors are sliding (like the Orlando Toyota Sienna).

What about performance? So far, we know that the engine compartment opens in the opposite direction of all other Toyotas (kind of like a semi-truck). However, instead of having a V6 engine like the FJ, the new Toyota TJ Cruiser will offer a hybrid power train (similar to what the Toyota Prius brings to the table). A 1.8L powertrain and 2.0L 4-cylinder engine will likely be under the hood, which means this futuristic model will offer incredible fuel efficiency.

When will it actually arrive in Japan, though? According to a recently published article from a Japanese vehicle journalism site, Toyota has made the decision to unveil the production model (not the concent model) at the Tokyo Motor Show this October, and then roll it out of production in December for it to be sold in 2020.

We don’t know that this car will ever make it to the US, but it WILL be built on the TNGA platform, which many production Toyotas are being built on. We’d welcome it at our Orlando Toyota dealership but we’ll have to play the waiting game and see!

Explore hybrids AND SUVs at Toyota of Orlando today!

In the interim, however, we’ve got plenty of options for you. If you’re looking for a hybrid, explore our models! You can also test drive SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner, Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Highlander, and more!

Schedule your appointment today – call (407) 298-4500, or swing by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall to see our entire inventory.

 

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Hurricane season is in full swing! It looks like Tropical Storm Dorian might take a swing at us (although you never know, it could go wide and leave us with a nice, dry Labor Day Weekend). Either way, we do live in the Sunshine State, which means we’re prone to hurricanes every year from May 1 – November 30. We figured now was a good a time as any to brush up on hurricane safety – particularly, evacuating. Check out our Orlando Toyota tips below.

6 tips to consider when evacuating a hurricane

Tip #1: Gas up in advance. There’s nothing worse than sitting at a gas station with 5 people ahead of you while the storm clouds build in the distance. And the lines only get worse as the storm gets closer – gas up now so you don’t have to worry about it before you get out town. That way you can stop once you’re clear of the hurricane’s path and top off the tank in your Orlando Toyota.

Tip #2: Know what to pack. What should you take when you evacuate a hurricane? Our Orlando Toyota dealership recommends bringing important documents, photographs, chargers, all medications you might need, cash, and supplies for your pets. You’ll also want to bring changes of clothing for everyone and snacks and drinks. Don’t forget a paper map in case you lose service, as well as a basic first aid kit.

Tip #3: Have a final destination in mind. Know where you’re going. If the hurricane is anticipated to be a bad one, you won’t be the only one getting out of town. Book a hotel or locate a shelter before you leave town so you know exactly where you’re going and have a definite place to stay when you arrive.

Tip #4: Make sure four-legged friends are welcome. When you book a hotel, choose a shelter, or ask a friend if you can crash with them, be sure that your four-legged friends are welcome, too. You should NEVER leave your pets home alone in a hurricane – no excuses.

Get your car prepped and ready at Toyota of Orlando

Tip #5: Ensure your car is ready to get out of town. Your Orlando Toyota should be gassed up in the event you decide to evacuate, but you also want to ensure it’s in good enough condition to hit the highway. Make sure you’re caught up on auto service like oil changes, coolant checks, tire inspections, and a battery inspection before you take on the open road.

Tip #6: Check traffic before you head out. Before you actually evacuate, check traffic on your route. If a lot of people are of similar mind when it comes to evacuating, then the roads could be clogged. Checking before you leave your house will give you the option of searching for alternate, less crowded routes to get out of town. It can save you both time and gasoline.

Whether you decide to stay put or head out of town this hurricane season, Toyota of Orlando has you covered. Schedule your auto service at our Toyota service department or call us for more tips at (407) 298-0001.

 

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We all know how messy the car can get in a matter of hours, especially if you’re carting kids around town. However, the mess can actually be more than just annoying to look at. Crumbs can attract bugs and other pests, things rolling around can become hazard if you’re in an accident, and spills are more likely – all of which can bring down the resale value of your ride, too. Toyota of Orlando is here with 6 simple car care tips to keep your ride decluttered all year long.

Decluttering your ride is part of car care

Tip 1: Remember that less is more. We know you want to be prepared for all eventualities, but do you REALLY need three different jackets in your car in case you get cold in the restaurant? Try to pare down what you do keep in your car so you’re prepared for everything, but don’t overdo it when it comes to supplies.

Tip 2: Go through your stuff periodically. Make it a point to go through your car supplies periodically. Has that snack expired or busted open so it’s now stale? Has your charging cord frayed so that it’s almost unusable? Is it summer now so you can stash the winter boots you have in the trunk back in your closet? Routinely organizing your belongings and swapping out what you don’t need will help your car stay clutter-free.

Tip 3: Get to know your ride. Does your Orlando Toyota have any secret storage spots that you haven’t yet discovered? Give it a search to see if you’re missing out on under-seat or under-floor storage spaces where you could store things you don’t use often.

Tip 4: Decide how and where to store things logically. Do you REALLY need to keep an extra pair of shoes in the front seat with you? Store things that you need at hand (like charging cords, insurance and registration, etc.) near you, but store less-used items a little further out of reach. For example, keep the sunscreen and extra diapers in the backseat, but stash your roadside emergency car care kit under the floor in the trunk or cargo area.

Tip 5: Have a trash can on hand. Keeping a trash can or trash bag in your car will MAJORLY cut down on clutter – you won’t be tempted to stuff your empty coffee cup into the door cupholder and leave it there for a week.

Detail your Orlando Toyota routinely to keep clutter low

Tip 6: Clean your car routinely. A big part of car care and keeping your ride decluttered and high in value is cleaning it regularly! Make sure you vacuum and wipe surfaces on a routine basis, as well as treat any stains that pop up and empty the trash.

Need to shop for cleaning supplies or want to schedule a car detailing? Call our car care experts at Toyota of Orlando today – we’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001!

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