The Toyota Camry has always been a much-loved car. It’s classically stylish, incredibly reliable, decked out with all the technology you need for both safety and entertainment, and offers an unbeatable performance to boot. However, Toyota isn’t about to get complacent just because this sleek sedan is a best-seller. They’re taking things up a notch for the 2020 model year and introducing a whole new element of drive time never before seen on this popular Orlando Toyota: all-wheel drive.

Up until this point, the Orlando Toyota Camry was only available in front-wheel drive. It worked – after all, it’s a sedan so all-wheel drive capabilities weren’t really expected from it (it’s a feature more often found on SUVs and trucks). However, all-wheel drive definitely has its perks and we’re excited that this convenient feature is being introduced to this already-amazing sedan.

What is all-wheel drive?

Not totally sure what all-wheel drive is? Basically, this type of vehicle uses all four wheels to power the car (as opposed to front-wheel drive, which just uses the two front wheels to power the vehicle). It’s different than four-wheel drive because unlike four-wheel drive, all-wheel drive is sending power to all four wheels all the time (not just when you choose to turn it on).

How all-wheel drive take the Orlando Toyota Camry up another level

What are the perks of all-wheel drive? Here’s how it can upgrade your drive time:

Better traction. This means you’ll have more grip in inclement conditions like rain, snow, or ice. If one or two of your tires loses its grip, the other two can still power the vehicle and provide traction. More traction = a much safer drive time when the roads are slippery and you’re a lot more likely to get into an accident.

Better performance. Four wheel providing power means more power gets transferred to the tires immediately, making your car faster when accelerating. Additionally, all-wheel drive gives you better steering capabilities as both front wheels can be devoted to steering instead of carrying the load when it comes to moving the car forward.

Better handing. All-wheel drive systems distribute the weight better throughout the car instead of having it all up front. This means you’ll have better handling on your side every time you get behind the wheel of the new Toyota Camry.

Off-road capabilities. OK – we’re not huge proponents of taking the 2020 Toyota Camry on an off-road expedition. It’s not built for taking on rugged terrain and doesn’t have the same performance capabilities as a Toyota truck or SUV (or the height needed). However, if you do find yourself driving on sand, mud, or gravel, you’ll find that you have better grip despite the different surface and more control over your car.

As you can see, the 2020 Toyota Camry will have a lot to offer… and it’s already on our lot at Toyota of Orlando! Get into the driver’s seat today to see if it’s the right ride for you. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

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When it comes to car care, you’ve probably got a solid grasp on the basic appointments you need to schedule on a routine basis. Oil changes and tire rotations are two of the big ones, as well as brake service and battery checks. However, when was the last time you got a wheel alignment? This auto service is just as important as your other appointments, but many drivers don’t know when or why it needs to be scheduled. Toyota of Orlando’s service center is here to explain.

What is this important auto service and what does it do?

First, let’s talk about what a wheel alignment actually is. Basically, this is when our Orlando Toyota service techs use an alignment machine to “square up” your car’s wheels and axles (make sure they’re all moving in the same direction). They’ll also make sure that the steering wheel is properly centered, and they might adjust your car’s suspension as well – specifically, angles like the toe, camber, castor, and thrust. Basically, they just want to make sure everything is lined up properly so your car can travel in a straight line without any adjustments by you.

How often do you need one? It varies based on your driving habits, your car, and whether or not you’ve been in an accident or collision. Generally, you can go two to three years between alignments unless you get into an accident or you get new tires (new tires have to be aligned properly before you can drive).

How do you know you need a wheel alignment?

How do you know you need one? Well, time alone – our Orlando auto service techs can remind you when you’re due to bring your car in. However, here are some other signs that you may need to schedule this important car care in the near future:

Your car is pulling to one side. Does your car drift to one side when you take your hands off the steering wheel? Does it feel like it’s pulling against you when you try to straighten it out? It should stay true to center unless you turn the wheel, so if you notice that it’s traveling to the left or right on its own, it’s a good possibility you need to schedule Orlando wheel alignment.

Your tires are wearing unevenly. Your tires should wear evenly, especially if you get them rotated like you should. If you notice that your car’s wheels are wearing unevenly then it could be a sign they’re unaligned and need auto service to get them back on track.

Your tires are making squealing noises. Are your tires making squealing noises? This could mean they’ve been knocked out of alignment and need to be fixed.

Your steering wheel is vibrating or shuddering. If your steering wheel shakes or vibrates while your car is in motion, you may have a problem with the wheels being misaligned. Let our Orlando car techs take a peek at it.

Need to schedule this essential car service? Call Toyota of Orlando today at (407) 298-0001.

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OK. Before we get started, we want to make one thing clear –

WE’RE NOT FORGETTING ABOUT THANKSGIVING. 

But Christmas is definitely in the air in the City Beautiful and holiday events are starting to fill up the calendar. We’re here to give you some ideas to add a little holiday spirit to your weekend and we’ve even included some Thanksgiving events for you Turkey Day enthusiasts. Whichever holiday you plan to celebrate this weekend, we hope it’s the best.

Hunter’s Creek Turkey Trot: Trying to get a little burn in before the big day? Make room for the mashed potatoes and hit the road for the Hunter’s Creek Turkey Trot this Saturday, November 23. Registration is $25 and the race kicks off at 8:30am at Osprey Park (5100 Town Center Blvd.).

21st Annual Vegan Thanksgiving: Are you a fan of Turkey Day but not so much the turkey? Check out the 21st Annual Vegan Thanksgiving at Mead Botanical Garden (1300 S. Denning Ave in Winter Park) this Sunday, November 24. The potluck is $5 if you bring a vegan dish to share and $15 if you don’t, and dinner kicks off at 2 pm.

Jingle Eve 2019: Get into the holiday spirit in Ivanhoe Village this Saturday, November 23 from 5-10 pm. This holiday street party includes a wine tasting with the 12 wines of Christmas, biergartens, live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and a craft table where kids can make Christmas cards for other children who are spending the holidays in the Advent Hospital system. The evening ends with a fireworks display over Lake Ivanhoe!

Light Up UCF: It’s opening weekend for Light Up UCF at the University of Central Florida! This holiday event is open from 5pm – 12am and features photos with Santa, an ice skating rink, a ferris wheel, a choreographed lights show, a kids train, a carousel, and other carnival rides. Entry is free but it does costs vary for the different rides and attractions, so bring your cash.

Festival of Trees: Visit the Orlando Museum of Art (2416 N Mills Ave) this weekend to explore a winter wonderland of beautifully decorated Christmas trees. You’ll also find decorated wreaths on display as well as intricate gingerbread houses AND a magical winter wonderland where kids can play and meet Santa. There’s also live music and holiday shopping!

Dino in Lights: Have a dino fan in the family? Check out Dino in Lights at the Orlando Science Center this weekend. This Osborn Family type light show will thrill fans of all ages as it incorporates the cool fossils on display. The show runs multiple times between 11am and 3:30pm and tickets to get into the science center start at $14.95.

Have a happy holiday weekend, Orlando!

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When it comes to finding the absolute perfect ride, it can take a little bit of leg work. This is especially true if you’re looking for an older model or something incredibly specific. This type of purchase can take you out of your local area and sometimes out of state or even out of the country. However, long distance car buying is a different ball game than buying from your local dealer or a private seller in your city! Toyota of Orlando is here with tips to make your long distance car buying experience a breeze.

3 Orlando Toyota tips to help with your long distance car buying experience

Tip #1: Do your homework before you buy.

When you buy a car long distance, chances are you may only see it in photographs and video (unless you spring for a plane ticket to get to where it is). This being said, you need to be thorough when it comes to researching the vehicle. Make sure you ask for photos and video so you can see every inch of it, request service and repair records, and run a CarFax report on the car. You should also come up with a list of very specific questions to ask the seller so you cover all of your bases. Remember, you won’t get to take a test drive unless you actually go see the car in person, so it’s essential to be as thorough as possible. If you CAN get out to where the vehicle is to see it in person, we highly recommend it!

Tip #2: Check fuel and safety standards in your city and state.

Fuel and safety standards vary from state to state, and they can be different here in the US from other countries. For example, Florida has specific rules about fuel efficiency and vehicle safety features. Make sure your ride will be up to code when it arrives or you may not be able to hit the road in it without making modifications and having to pay even more money. This is especially true if you’re buying internationally!

Tip #3: Figure out how to get it home.

How are you going to get your new ride home? Long distance car buying adds a whole new component in this arena – are you going to drive your new ride and put all those miles on it? If you’re buying from another country, this may not even be a possibility. If you’re going to ship your car, make sure you choose a reputable company and price it out so you have the money set aside. Our Orlando Toyota dealership also recommends that you set aside a little bit of money for repairs that might spring up – sometimes damage can occur when a car is shipped.

Have questions? Our Orlando Toyota sales associates can help!

Have questions? We can help! Our knowledgeable Orlando Toyota sales associates have the answers to your questions. Give us a call at (407) 298-4500. We’re open seven days a week until 10pm!

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Have you ever experienced a tire blowout? It’s a pretty frightening experience. Blowouts occur when your tire suddenly bursts and loses all of its air pressure rapidly. When this happens, your tire can no longer support the weight of your car and collapses. Blowouts are dangerous because when they occur, you lose control of your vehicle for a few moments (not to mention, the loud noise they make can easily startle you or the cars around you). If you’re moving at a high speed or driving on a slick surface, your chances of an accident or collision are high. Rear tire blowouts are exceptionally dangerous because they can cause your car to fishtail.

How can you prevent a tire blowout?

Luckily, your chances of experiencing a blowout are slimmer if you keep up with the right car tire care. Here’s what our Orlando auto service techs recommend to keep your car tires in top shape and prevent flat tires and blowouts!

Keep your tires inflated to the right PSI. Underinflated tires can’t properly carry the weight of your car because that air pressure is what keeps things supported. When your PSI is too low, it puts major stress on the tire and causes it to overflex, eventually leading to a blowout because the tire simply can’t flex any further. You can find the right level PSI in your owner’s manual or on a small placard on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid potholes. Potholes can do a number on your car, resulting in alignment, suspension, and tire issues (and a big dent in your bank account). Hitting a pothole, curb or any other road hazard can damage your tire and its internal components. This makes it weaker and more likely to blow out under pressure.

Don’t overload your car. Your car has a weight limit, believe it or not, and if you exceed that limit it puts a lot of stress on your car tires when you’re out on the road. This can damage them, especially if they’re underinflated. Be sure to check your Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (you can find it in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side doorjamb next to the PSI recommendations).

Keep up with maintenance. You should be inspecting your tires routinely, checking the PSI, and having them rotated on a schedule. This is especially true if you find yourself driving on the highway a lot; driving at high speeds takes its toll on tires. If you don’t keep up with basic car tire care, then your tires will wear out faster and be prone to blowouts if you don’t replace them.

Keep a special eye on your car tires during the spring and summer. Blowouts are more likely to happen when the pavement is at its hottest.

Schedule car care today at Toyota of Orlando

Have questions? Think you need to schedule car tire care with our Orlando Toyota service techs? Call us today! We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001. Toyota of Orlando is conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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The Orlando Toyota RAV4 is a much-loved SUV for many reasons. It was recently redesigned for a seriously sleek and sporty look, offers great fuel efficiency combined with a spacious interior, and even comes in a hybrid drivetrain to save you money and cut down on emissions. However, it’s about to get even cooler – as of 2021, things are getting electric.

Meet the latest and greatest Toyota RAV4

The Los Angeles Auto Show took place last week and Toyota unveiled the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in to the world for the first time. This majorly green version of the ever-popular SUV is packing a punch when it comes to… well, just about everything, and Toyota of Orlando is here with the details! Check out the highlights below.

• This new Toyota SUV will have a 2.5L Atkinson cycle inline four engine from the current Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for 176 horsepower. However, it’s also boasting two electric motors, which boosts things up to 302 horsepower total.
• This model will also showcase on-demand all-wheel drive, where the rear wheels will be powered as needed by the electric motors. This all-wheel drive system additionally features a trail mode so give you some flexibility when it comes to taking things off the pavement.
• This Orlando Toyota will be able to get from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds, making it the second-fastest vehicle in Toyota’s lineup after the Supra. Talk about speed!
• The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-In will be able to go 39 miles on electric power alone before switching over to the engine, making it an exceptionally green SUV.
• Two models will be available – the SE and XSE.
• The SE model will showcase features like an 8″ touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers will also love a power liftgate and heated front seats, as well as a sleek exterior decked out with 18″ wheels and black trim. This model also offers a power driver’s seat and a 7″ display in the instrument gauge cluster.
• The XSE model takes things up a notch with features like 19″ wheels, limited-edition two-tone paint colors, and vertical LED daytime running lights. The interior offers incredible highlights like synthetic leather upholstery (it’s more eco-friendly), new paddle shifters that also control regenerative braking, Qi wireless charging, and a 9″ touchscreen audio interface.
• Additionally, there’s an optional “premium” package up for grabs. This special package will add on features like heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, a JBL audio system, and dynamic navigation. The dynamic navigation is one of the coolest features yet – it reads the road and learns the driver’s routine to keep your drive time fast, efficient, and stress-free.

Electrify your drive time this summer at Toyota of Orlando

When will we see it at Toyota of Orlando? Possibly by summer of 2020 – we’ll keep you posted on its arrival as we get more information. However, if you’re in the market for a clean green ride NOW, come down and see us! We can get you behind the wheel of a new Toyota Prius Prime AND get you a test drive in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall!

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If you want to make your drive time more eco-friendly, there are a number of ways to do it. You can take public transportation, join a carpool, condense your trips, and consider riding a bike when the weather is nice. However, another easy and effective way to make your day-to-day a whole lot greener is to take home one of our green Orlando Toyotas.

Hydrogen fuel cell cars: As green as it gets

There are a ton of options when it comes to green cars here at Toyota of Orlando. We’ve got a large range of hybrids, including everything from compact hatchbacks to spacious family SUVs. You’ll also be able to explore electric car options like the Toyota Prius Prime. However, one vehicle that we’re eagerly awaiting is the Toyota Mirai – an innovative hydrogen fuel car that offers the cleanest, greenest performance yet, putting out only water vapor as emissions.

Hydrogen fuel cell cars like the Toyota Mirai are picking up in popularity, but a lot of people still don’t quite understand how they work or why they’re such a great pick for a green ride. Toyota of Orlando is here to break it down – check out the basics on hydrogen fuel cars below!

Toyota of Orlando’s answers to hydrogen car FAQs

• Fueling a hydrogen fuel car: Fueling one of these Orlando Toyotas isn’t that different than fueling your gasoline-powered car or hybrid. You pull up to a fueling station that looks remarkably similar to the ones you’re already used to – you’ll see a terminal with a hose and nozzle, as well as a screen payment and other information. There may also be a cooling fan or two, a fuel reservoir, and a compressor onsite. You’ll pay up, put the nozzle into your vehicle, and fuel!
• Costs of hydrogen fuel: Believe it or not, hydrogen fuel isn’t that much more expensive than gasoline. In fact, one of the only reasons it’s a tad bit pricier right now is because it’s a relatively new fuel source and not readily available in a lot of places (you’ll only find fueling stations in California and Hawaii right now). However, as it becomes more popular and widespread, the cost should drop even further.
• Dangers of hydrogen fuel: But what about the compressed fuel and leaks? Are they more dangerous with this type of Orlando Toyota? No, believe it or not, because the fuel tends to dissipate quickly before it has a chance to ignite (unlike gasoline), lowering the chances of fire spreading to other parts of the car. Additionally, hydrogen fuel cell cars come with several fail-safe measures to prevent leaks or other problems with the fuel.

Have questions about these innovative new Toyotas? Call Toyota of Orlando today! We can give you the scoop on the new Toyota Mirai or get you behind the wheel of a new Toyota hybrid. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-4500 and conveniently located just off I-4 across from the Millenia Mall.

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OK, OK, we know – it never snows here. Like, ever. So why are we taking the time to tell you all about tire traction devices and how they make your ride a whole lot safer in the snow? Well, while we can use all-season tires all year long here in Orlando, we know the holiday travels sometimes take people out of town. And if you’re heading up north where winter weather can be a lot harsher, it’s to your benefit to know which tire traction options are available to you while driving in the snow. Check out the main types below!

Type #1: Tire chains 

Tire chains are the most common AND the most readily available type of tire traction device for driving in the snow. They’re actual chains that attach to your car’s tires that help dig into the snow and give your vehicle extra traction on the road when conditions are slushy or snowy. Our Orlando Toyota parts center can help you choose the right ones for your ride – just ask.

Type #2: Tire spikes 

Tire spikes are kind of like tire chains, but they’re less bulky, easier to install than chains, and look a lot more streamlined when they’re on your car’s tires. These tire traction devices are just what they sound like – a row of spikes that are installed on the front face of the tire to cut through the snow and give you traction.

Type #3: GoClaws

GoClaws are similar to tire spikes, but they’re installed differently. Instead of being one piece installed on the front of the tire, GoClaws are installed on the tires using straps that attach to the four “corners” of the tires.

Type #4: Auto Socks 

Auto Socks are a relatively new type of tire traction technology that are supposed to be similar to tire chains. However, they’re actually made from textiles specially designed to give you more grip on the road.

And let’s not forget about traction mats. While they won’t do you much good when you’re in motion, they’re great if you find yourself stuck in snow, slush, or mud. These special mats are placed in front of a car’s tires so the tires can get a grip on them and get moving instead of spinning out in slippery conditions.

Like we said, you definitely won’t need these tire traction devices just to hit the road in Orlando (or in Florida, really). But if you’re heading north, they’re a great alternative to switching out your tires for winter tires. They can be installed and removed whenever you need, making them convenient and more affordable.

Need help shopping tire traction devices for your holiday travels? Call Toyota of Orlando at (407) 298-0001 or stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road. We can help you choose the right ones for your ride today.

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When it comes to what goes on under the hood, a lot of drivers aren’t too well-versed. However, here at Toyota of Orlando we believe that in order to be a responsible car owner (and save time and money), you should know the ins and outs of how your car works. Today, our auto service techs are bringing you a quick guide to spark plugs and how they get your car up and at ’em every single day.

What is a spark plug and what does it do?

What is a spark plug? Basically, it’s a tiny electrical plug that plugs into the engine’s cylinder head. It’s job? To “spark” so it can ignite your car’s fuel. Remember, gasoline by itself won’t get your car running. Fuel is moved from the gas tank through the fuel lines into the fuel injectors, where it’s mixed with oxygen that’s been sucked into the engine via the air intake. This special mixture of fuel and oxygen is then pushed into cylinder, where the spark plug ignites it and sets things into motion.

You’ll probably need to replace your spark plugs every 30,000 miles or so, but it really depends on the condition of your car and how you drive and maintain it. But without working spark plugs, you’re going nowhere fast. If  they’re going bad or have conked out on you, you’ll likely have problems getting your car started at all, as well as have to deal with misfiring during acceleration and poor fuel efficiency. Here are two of the main reasons you may see an issue:

• A bigger gap. Spark plugs have to jump a gap of space to ignite fuel and over time, wear and tear cause this gap to widen. This makes it harder for the plugs to do their job.
• Buildup. Deposits form on the plugs because of the fuel-air interaction, and over time this can lead to a buildup that in turn causes pre-ignition of the fuel (a jerky and unreliable performance).

Luckily, these car parts are easy and relatively inexpensive to fix, especially if you bring your ride to our Orlando Toyota service center.

How do you know if these important car parts aren’t working?

How do you know if you’re due for a visit to our Toyota service center? Here are a few signs you may be in need of a new set of spark plugs:

• Your fuel efficiency drops without warning
• Your car is having trouble starting
• Your vehicle misfires or feels “jerky” during acceleration, or it feels sluggish when you hit the gas
• You hear rattling or knocking noises from under the hood (this is caused by the plugs firing at the wrong time)

Our Orlando auto service center can get things up and running again under the hood in no time, so if you think you need new spark plugs just call. We’re open seven days a week for your convenience at (407) 298-0001, and we’re conveniently located at 3575 Vineland Road just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.

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When it comes to car tire care, you have to get routine maintenance taken care of or else you’re going to run through tires quickly, have to pay to replace them more often, and probably deal with blowouts and flats during your drive time. There are three main services you should be scheduling for your car tires at our Orlando Toyota service center: tire rotations, wheel balancing, and wheel alignments. We know pretty much everyone knows what tire rotations are, but are you familiar with the differences between wheel balancing and wheel alignments?

What’s the main difference between wheel alignments and wheel balancing?

While alignments and balancing are both essential to keeping your tires in good condition and your car performing well, they’re two very different processes. Check out this quick guide on both of them from our Toyota of Orlando service experts.

Wheel alignments 

The wheels on your car are aligned at certain angles by the factory to ensure that all four are parallel to each other, as well as to ensure that all four stand perfectly perpendicular to the ground. This ensures even wear and top-notch performance. However, over time your wheels can become misaligned due to wear and tear, hitting curbs, and car accidents. If you don’t schedule a wheel alignment to correct the angles again, you’ll face drive time problems including:

• Your car drifting to one side of the road
• Uneven wear on your tires, which means you’ll have to replace them more frequently
• Your car pulling to one side even when the steering wheel is straightened out

Obviously, this car tire care is an essential item to add to your checklist. You should schedule wheel alignments every two years or so unless you get into an accident or get new tires.

Wheel balancing 

Wheel balancing is different than wheel alignments – instead of dealing with angles, this car tire care deals with weight. As you drive, your car tires are likely to face wear and tear that can cause imperfections or blemishes, as well as damage to the rim if you get into an accident or collision. This makes one section of the tire heavier than others, which in turn leads to wobbling and bouncing. You’ll be able to feel it inside the car’s cabin as vibration, as well as notice signs like:

• Vibration in the steering wheel
• Cupped or scalloped patterns on the wheel

When you schedule wheel balancing at Toyota of Orlando’s service center, our techs will apply weights to counterbalance the “heavy spots” in your car tires to ensure even wear and smooth performance. Your wheels should be balanced every time you get your tires repaired or rotated for maximum benefits.

Schedule your car tire care at Toyota of Orlando

Whether you need balancing, an alignment, or both, we’ve got you covered! Schedule an appointment at our Orlando Toyota service center today to get your car’s performance up to par. We’re open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001, and you can swing by to talk to one of our techs at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.

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