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When you buy a Toyota Camry from us at Longo Toyota of Prosper, Texas, you can look forward to many years of trouble-free ownership. To ensure your car's ongoing reliability and maintain its warranty coverage, it's important to follow the recommended Toyota Camry maintenance schedule. Whether your Camry has a four-cylinder gas engine or the V-6 powertrain, our team can help you maximize your Camry's performance with our comprehensive Toyota Camry maintenance guide. Note our expert tips to keep your car running smoothly. more Understanding Your Camry's Maintenance Schedule Your Toyota Camry service schedule follows 5,000-mile or 6-month intervals depending on your driving habits. This means that if you drive 5,000 miles in fewer than six months, you should follow the mileage-interval recommendations for maintenance. If it takes you more than 6 months to drive 5,000 miles, you should schedule a service every 6 months. Customizing the Schedule Based on Driving Conditions In some cases, you might need extra service visits or additional maintenance tasks at a service appointment. For instance, if you do most of your driving under special operating conditions, your car will suffer more wear and tear and require extra maintenance and more frequent oil changes. Special operating conditions include: Driving through dust, in mountainous terrain, or in extreme hot or cold weather Transporting heavy loads Making frequent short trips If you're not sure if your car needs additional maintenance, ask the helpful team in our service center. Service Intervals: What and When Toyota routine maintenance tasks need to be carried out at the correct service intervals, which are as follows. Every 5,000 Miles/6 months: The Essentials At each 5,000-mile or 6-month service, we'll: Rotate the tires Check the fluid levels and top off if necessary Inspect the brake pads and rotors Check the wiper blades Every 10,000 Miles/12 months: Intermediate Checks and Replacements At this service interval, in addition to carrying out the previously mentioned tasks, we'll: Change the engine oil and filter Replace the cabin air filter Major Milestones: 15,000, 30,000, and 60,000 Miles At the 15,000-mile/18-month Toyota service interval, we'll check the following as part of our more in-depth inspection: Engine coolant Radiator and condenser Exhaust pipes and mountings Steering gear and linkage Driveshaft boots Ball joints and dust covers Brake lines and hoses Additional tasks at 30,000 miles/36 months include: Inspecting the automatic transmission fluid cooler hoses and connections and looking for signs of leaks Checking the fuel lines and connections, fuel tank band, vapor vent hoses, and cap gasket Replacing the engine air filter At 60,000 miles, Toyota maintenance recommendations include inspecting the drive belts, and for Camrys with the V-6 engine, replacing the spark plugs. With the four-cylinder engine, the spark plugs shouldn't need changing until the 120,000-mile/144-month mark. Specific Maintenance Tasks Explained Two of the most common and important routine maintenance tasks are engine oil changes and tire rotations. Oil Changes: Frequency and Best Practices Engine oil is your car's lifeblood. It lubricates the moving components and helps to maintain the correct engine temperature. As the oil gets older, it gradually gets contaminated with tiny particles and becomes less effective at lubricating engine parts and dissipating heat, and the oil filter becomes clogged with debris. That's when the oil and filter need changing. Toyota recommends having the oil changed every 10,000 miles. However, if most of your vehicle use falls under the special operating conditions listed above, your oil might need to be changed more frequently, possibly every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Tire Maintenance: Rotation, Balancing, and Replacement Your car's tires wear at different rates depending on their position on the vehicle. With front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive Camrys, the front tires experience more acceleration, cornering, and braking forces than the rear tires, so they'll wear more quickly. By rotating the tires, you enable them to wear more evenly and help to extend their life. For the Camry, it's recommended to move the rear tires to the front axle and the front tires to the rear axle. When you have your tires rotated at our tire center, our technicians will check the tire treads and inspect the inner and outer tire walls for cracks, bulges, and excess wear. If necessary, they'll balance the wheels. If the tires are excessively worn or damaged, we'll replace them with the right tires for your Camry. Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Your Camry As the seasons change, it's important to prepare your car for the cold winter weather or the extreme summer heat to ensure it doesn't let you down. Preparing Your Car for Winter Check that your tires have enough tread and are properly inflated. Consider changing to winter tires for better grip. You'll want to make these additional preparations: Have your brakes checked. Make sure the coolant has the right mix of antifreeze and that the washer fluid is rated for low temperatures. Inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if necessary. Make sure all the lights are working. Put an emergency kit together with items such as blankets, first aid supplies, a flashlight, jumper cables, and snacks. An ice scraper, shovel, and sand will help if you get stuck in the snow. Summer Readiness: Overheating Prevention As the summer heat approaches, it'll be good to care for the following: Check the radiator and hoses for cracks and leaks. Ensure all fluids are at the right levels. Make sure the air conditioning is working efficiently. Have the brakes and tires inspected. Always carry water in the car. Cold and hot weather can reduce the efficiency of your car's battery. We recommend bringing your car to us for a battery service in the fall and spring to make sure it won't fail you in the extreme weather. Schedule Maintenance for Your Toyota Camry With Us By following the Toyota scheduled maintenance guide for your Camry, you can be confident that your car will carry on running at its best for as long as you own it. When you reach the maintenance milestones, contact us at Longo Toyota of Prosper, Texas, to take advantage of the Toyota Camry services in our state-of-the-art service center. Dynamic Toyota Camry Driving on Erbil Highway by Harem is licensed with Pexels License

Toyota is among the top brands when it comes to ensuring the safety of its drivers. Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a package including a range of driver-assistance features, was first launched in 2015. Since then, it has gone through a series of important upgrades to give each new Toyota cutting-edge safety tech. Our experts at Longo Toyota have taken a closer look at the safety features you can expect to find on most Toyota models and the optional add-ons you can choose for added protection on the roads around Prosper, Texas. more Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking Forward collision warning and forward automatic emergency braking are two key features of every Toyota, whether it's the small Corolla or a family-sized SUV. The collision warning alerts you to potential threats up ahead, including pedestrians and cyclists, giving you time to avoid or reduce the impact of the collision. Should you fail to respond in time, the automatic emergency braking system can kick in to bring your vehicle to a swift stop. Lane Departure Warning The lane departure warning tracks where you are on the highway and sets off an alarm if you're about to leave your lane. This feature is a standard option in many Toyotas with lane-keep assist, which can steer your vehicle back into the center of a lane. This feature won't take over if you're indicating in order to exit a lane. The main aim of these features is to stop accidents arising from drivers inadvertently sliding into another lane and colliding with traffic. Adaptive Cruise Control Adaptive cruise control is a modern safety feature designed to reduce accidents on the highway caused by drivers not leaving enough distance from the vehicle ahead of them. It can automatically adjust your speed to ensure that you maintain a safe distance. In the higher trims of some Toyotas, you may also find stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, which can operate similarly in heavy traffic. However, it's important to remember that this feature is not an automated driver, and you still need to be alert behind the wheel. Automatic High-Beam Headlights This feature adjusts your headlight levels when oncoming traffic approaches. As a result, you can be sure that you won't blind oncoming drivers when they're approaching you. In addition, the high beams will come on when you need them most, when it's dark and road visibility is poor. Some higher trims in the Toyota vehicle lineup add adaptive headlights as an extra feature. These headlights can move side to side depending on your position on the road to improve visibility and ensure maximum performance. Blind-Spot Monitoring Your blind spot is one of the most dangerous areas because vehicles can approach you without you seeing them. The blind-spot monitor handles this problem by alerting you to approaching motorists so you can take evasive action. The rear cross-traffic alert is a similar feature. It alerts you to traffic traveling across the rear of your vehicle when you're reversing out of a parking spot or any other position. Both blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are generally optional upgrades for Toyota vehicles, but you may find them as standard features in some models. Rear Seat Alert Unfortunately, it's not rare for children or pets to be left in the back seats of cars. Automakers have developed the rear seat reminder to counter this problem. It alerts you every time you get out of the vehicle to check behind you to ensure you've left nobody behind. It's especially handy in Toyota's larger vehicles with three rows of seating, such as the Highlander or Sequoia SUVs. Parking Sensors and Surround-View Parking Camera If you buy an SUV or truck, parking sensors are a big help. They alert you to approaching obstacles, including walls or other vehicles, when you're parking in a spot. Rear parking sensors are most common, but you can also get forward parking sensors for extra safety. One popular optional upgrade for large trucks and SUVs is the surround-view parking camera. It shows an aerial view of your vehicle on your display so you can monitor potential threats from all sides as you maneuver safely into your parking position. Road Sign Recognition Have you ever unintentionally missed a speed limit sign or driven past your exit? The road sign recognition feature can read signs along the highway and project them onto your instrument cluster. This feature is an optional upgrade in most Toyota vehicles, but you may get it standard with a higher trim. Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers This is another feature that's typically available as an optional upgrade. When it starts to rain, the wipers will automatically come on to help you maintain good visibility. It takes the responsibility away from the driver to turn on the windshield wipers and helps prevent risks due to poor visibility. Driver Attention Monitor Here's another feature that's typically only available with higher trims in Toyota's lineup. The attention monitor keeps track of your habits and response times to determine when it's time for you to take a break. This piece of tech is well worth having if you regularly go on long highway drives. Learn More About Toyota Safety Features at Longo Toyota of Prosper Whether you're in the market for one of our new Toyota vehicles or a certified pre-owned model, we can introduce you to the vehicle's safety features and talk you through the optional upgrades. During a test drive in Prosper, one of our Toyota experts can explain how specific safety features work and point out anything you should be aware of. Contact us today with any questions about driver safety or the TSS suite of driver-assistance features. We'd be delighted to take your call or respond to an online message.

When shopping for a new set of wheels, reliability is often one of the first things that comes to mind, especially when considering the substantial financial commitment you're making when you purchase a car. While modern cars are designed with longevity in mind, some models outperform others in terms of dependability. Cars that are considered the most reliable will offer improved safety, better fuel economy, and an array of modern features, without many of the common kinks associated with early model redesigns. In addition, repairs will be less frequent and more manageable when you own a reliable model. One brand that has consistently stood out in terms of reliability is Toyota. From its flagship Camry to the ever-popular Corolla, Toyota vehicles have earned a reputation for being reliable and dependable. In fact, according to Consumer Reports’ unbiased car ratings for 2023, Toyota placed first on the list of most reliable car brands, with Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, in a close second. So if you're curious about whether Toyota vehicles are still considered reliable cars, the answer is a resounding yes. Here's an in-depth look at why Toyotas are still considered the most reliable vehicles today. more What Is Reliability, and How Do We Measure It? Reliability is the assurance that a product, system, or service will fully execute its intended purpose and meet operational requirements for a set period without failure. To measure car reliability, organizations such as Consumer Reports, JD Power and Associates, Edmunds.com, and Kelley Blue Book examine data from various sources, including car owners, repair shops, and parts suppliers. They look at how often vehicles have required repairs, the types of repairs needed, and the number of complaints filed per vehicle. They then use this data to calculate reliability ratings for new and used cars. Toyota's Reliability Track Record Toyota's reliability track record is nothing short of astounding. For over half a century, the company has focused on refining its engineering processes and improving the quality of its vehicles. It all started with the humble Toyopet Crown, a car that struggled to keep pace on America's smooth, fast-flowing highway. But through a relentless commitment to Kaizen, or continuous improvement, Toyota eventually came to dominate the automotive industry, producing some of the most beloved and dependable cars on the planet, from the Corolla to the Camry to the Lexus. Today, Toyota has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable car brands in the world and is known for its unshakable commitment to quality. Consumer Reports and other industry experts consistently rate Toyota vehicles among the best for build quality, safety, and driver satisfaction, demonstrating that Toyota remains the gold standard for reliability. Why Are Toyotas So Reliable? Regarding reliability, Toyotas have undoubtedly led the pack for decades. But what exactly makes them so dependable? Knowing what sets these vehicles apart from the competition can be helpful when shopping for a new ride. Here are some of the things that have helped cement Toyota vehicles’ reputation for reliability: Conservative Approach to Innovation Toyota takes its time introducing new features, never rushing the production of any vehicle. Instead, the company conducts extensive research and development to ensure the features are safe, reliable, and beneficial to drivers. Rather than simply trying to beat competitors or make headlines, Toyota takes a conservative approach to innovation and only adds features that enhance the vehicle's overall value. Function Over Form Toyota's primary objective when designing its vehicles is to make them as functional and reliable as possible. That means the company places a greater emphasis on design and accessibility than on things such as turbocharged engines or flashy exterior styling. This approach yields practical, reliable cars that often last longer and have fewer problems, inviting a better overall car ownership experience. Extended Service Life When you buy a new car, you don't just pay for the purchase price — you also have to factor in its ownership cost over the long haul. Fortunately, Toyota cars have a longer service life than many other brands. This means you can expect to save money on maintenance and repairs while you own your vehicle, as the car is less likely to break down. Thorough Quality Control Every Toyota undergoes numerous tests to ensure it meets stringent standards for safety and durability. In addition, the use of high-quality materials and smart engineering also plays a significant role in their reliability. Toyota also has a robust network of dealerships with factory-trained technicians who perform regular inspections and updates, helping keep Toyotas running smoothly for years. This attention to detail is why Toyota cars are so dependable and long lasting. How Long Is the Average Life Span of a Toyota? Toyota vehicles are renowned for their long-lasting reliability, with Forbes ranking them as the longest-lasting car brand in 2014 and beyond. These vehicles last an average of 210,705 miles when properly cared for. Even the most reliable car brand can't withstand neglect, so proper maintenance, with regular inspections and updates as necessary, is necessary for your Toyota to achieve its maximum life span. In addition to the standard 36-month/36,000-mile limited coverage warranty, Toyota offers extra protection with its 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, 60-month/unlimited mile rust-through coverage, and emissions coverage that varies by state. Having a manufacturer-backed warranty is also a great way to safeguard your investment. With the right maintenance and a good warranty, you can expect your Toyota to last a long time. Here are a few additional tips to keep your Toyota running strong: Don't run on empty: This can ruin your tank and cause damage that shortens your Toyota's life span. Buy quality parts: To ensure the best performance and longevity, buy Toyota-certified parts from authorized Toyota dealerships, such as Longo Toyota of Prosper. Address any problems immediately: If you notice any problems with your Toyota, don't wait until the last minute. Fix any issue as soon as possible to avoid shortening your car's life span. Ready to experience the Toyota difference? Longo Toyota of Prosper, Texas, is the perfect place to find your ideal used or new Toyota truck or car. Our inventory includes a wide variety of certified used vehicles and the latest new Toyota models. Whether you're looking for a reliable family car or an adventure-ready off-roader, we have something to suit your needs. Contact us today to schedule a test drive and find out why Toyotas are renowned for their reliability.

Take care of your car, and it'll take care of you. Whether you drive daily or take your car for a spin only on the weekends or holidays, you can't skip regular maintenance. Routine maintenance allows for safer, smoother, and stress-free driving. Don't wait for your Toyota's maintenance light to begin blinking before you take it in for service. Check out the recommended maintenance schedule for your Toyota to keep it in top shape. more What's the Recommended Maintenance Schedule for a Toyota? You probably chose your Toyota car, SUV, or truck due to its reputation for reliability and durability. According to a survey by iseecars.com, Toyotas and full-size SUVs are most likely to reach 200,000 miles or more. While Toyotas are reliable and long-lasting, that impressive achievement is not possible without following a strict maintenance schedule. So how frequently should you schedule a service appointment? While the maintenance schedule varies based on the vehicle model, year of manufacture, driving conditions, and other factors, Toyota recommends servicing your car once every 5000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. At every service appointment, trained technicians do a thorough check of your vehicle and provide various services, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections of brake pads, wiper blades, and fluid levels. Toyota Maintenance Schedule for Regular Driving Conditions Toyota has a detailed maintenance schedule checklist of what needs to be checked and when, depending on your vehicle's model, year of manufacture, and driving conditions. You can check the required maintenance for your car directly on the Toyota website by entering your vehicle's details. Here's a list of the standard checks done at each scheduled service appointment: Six Months or 5000 Miles Check the installation of the driver's floor mat. Inspect the wiper blades. Inspect and adjust the fluid levels. Rotate the tires. Inspect the brake pads, discs, linings, and drums for signs of wear and tear. 12 Months or 10,000 Miles Replace the engine oil and oil filter and complete all the checks done at 5000 miles. 18 Months or 15,000 Miles Repeat the checks done at 5000 miles, plus: Retorque the propeller shaft bolt for four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicles. Replace the engine oil and oil filter if 0W-20 oil was not used in the last oil change. Inspect the ball joints, brake lines and hoses, cabin air filters, dust covers, drive shaft boots, engine coolant, engine oil cooler hoses and connections, exhaust pipes and mountings, radiator and condenser, steering gear, steering boots, and transfer case oil. 24 Months or 20,000 Miles Repeat the checks done at 5000 miles and replace the engine oil and oil filter. 30 Months or 25,000 Miles Repeat the checks done at 5000 miles and replace the engine oil and oil filter if 0W-20 oil was not used at the last oil change. 36 Months or 30,000 Miles Repeat the checks done at 5000 miles, plus: Replace the cabin air filter, engine oil, oil filter, rear differential oil (4WD), and transfer case oil (4WD). Retorque propeller shaft bolt (4WD). Inspect the automatic transmission fluid cooler hoses and connections, ball joints, dust covers, brake lines, brake hoses, brake pads and discs, drive shaft boots, engine coolant, engine oil cooler hoses and connections, exhaust pipes and mountings, fuel lines, fuel tank band, fuel tank cap gasket, fuel tank vapor vent system hoses, radiator and condenser, and steering gear. Toyota Maintenance Schedule When Driving Under Special Conditions Your Toyota's maintenance schedule will vary, depending on where and how you drive. If you drive on stressful road conditions, such as dirt, dust, or snow, or if you do heavy towing or excessive idling, you'll need extra items checked in addition to the standard services. Here are a few additional items that will be checked when you drive your vehicle under special conditions: Inspect the drive shaft boots, ball joints, dust covers, engine air filter, steering linkage, and boots. Replace the engine oil and oil filter. Retorque the propeller shaft bolt. Tighten the nuts and bolts on the chassis and body. Why Is Scheduled Maintenance Essential for Your Toyota Vehicle? While a Toyota can easily last for years, your vehicle's internal components, such as belts, disc pads, and engine, begin to show signs of wear and tear over time. Following the company-recommended scheduled maintenance offers the following benefits: It increases your car's lifespan, as a well-maintained vehicle lasts longer. It identifies problems quickly before they become major issues that can cost you thousands of dollars in repairs. It reduces the money you spend on repairs and replacements. It improves your and your family's safety, as it prevents any accidents on the road due to malfunctioning parts. It ensures that your new vehicle warranty stays valid. It enhances the vehicle's resale value, as well-maintained cars yield better returns when you sell them or trade them in. How Can I Find Out the Recommended Maintenance Schedule for My Toyota? The best and easiest way to find out the recommended maintenance schedule for your Toyota is to consult your owners manual. Every new or Toyota-certified used car has a detailed user manual specifying usage, driving guidelines, and repair and maintenance tips for your vehicle's make and model. You can also check these details via the Toyota mobile app. If you don't have your manual, you can find the maintenance schedule for your Toyota at a local dealership, such as Longo Toyota of Prosper. Our team of qualified mechanics and technicians is factory trained and can provide you with a tailored maintenance schedule, depending on your vehicle usage and driving requirements. Schedule Toyota Service in Prosper, Texas, With Longo Toyota At Longo Toyota of Prosper, we help you stay on top of your Toyota maintenance schedule so that you can enjoy trouble-free driving for years. Schedule your next Toyota service with us, and let us prioritize your vehicle's health while you focus on your other priorities. The next time you see the maintenance light on, drop by Longo Toyota of Prosper or call us at 972-347-4966.

When you get a new vehicle, you may be wondering whether it's worthwhile to tint its windows. Below, you can explore some of the specific benefits of car window tinting to determine if it's the right investment for you. more Protects You From the Sun's Rays 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Whether you tend to spend hours in the car at a time on long road trips or take short trips to the grocery store, you're exposing yourself to the sun's harmful rays. While car manufacturers tend to build the windshield with some level of resistance to UV rays, the side and back windows are usually left vulnerable. When you get tint for your car windows, you can achieve protection from most UVB rays. UVB rays are the shorter kind of UV rays. They're the ones that cause sunburn if you spend too long outside. They can also result in the development of malignant melanoma and other types of skin cancers if you experience long-term exposure to them. Getting car window tinting can minimize your exposure to these rays and decrease your chances of developing skin cancer. It's important to note that some tinted windows won't block UVA rays, which are the type of UV rays that medical professionals associate with skin aging. In addition to causing wrinkling, they can also lead to the development of skin cancer. Because some car window tint products don't block out UVA rays, it's important to confirm whether the product you're applying does. Preserves Your Car's Interior While the sun's rays can harm you and your passenger's skin, they can also inflict damage on your car's interior over time. Your dashboard may fade and crack when it experiences long-term sun exposure. Your seats may also suffer a similar fate, especially if they're made of leather. You can limit your dashboard's and seats' exposure to UV rays by getting car window tinting services. As a result, you can enjoy your vehicle in its current condition for years to come. By protecting your vehicle's interior, you can also increase its resale value if you ever decide to sell it. Improves Comfort and Offers Better Gas Mileage Since you'll be keeping the sun's rays out of your vehicle thanks to car window tinting, you and your passengers can enjoy better overall ride comfort. Your car will be less likely to overheat, which will be especially helpful during the hotter summer months in Prosper. The window tint can also reduce glare from the sun, meaning that you won't experience so much eye strain on bright days. Because car window tinting creates a cooler interior temperature, you might not need to crank up the air conditioning as high. As a result, you may notice increased fuel efficiency, as your car's air conditioning system won't be running on full blast all the time. When you think back on getting car window tinting services, your gas budget will thank you in the long run. Provides Enhanced Safety in Case of an Accident While no one drives around expecting to get into an accident, you can note that car window tinting provides enhanced safety in case an accident occurs. To understand this benefit, you can remind yourself of what window tint is. Window tint is a film that sticks to the glass of your window. If an accident occurs and the glass shatters, the film may hold the broken glass together. Without the tint in place, the glass may scatter around the vehicle and result in damage to you or your passengers' skin or eyes. Offers More Privacy Car window tinting can offer more privacy in various situations. For example, you can enjoy a serene drive with your family without people looking into your windows. All the while, you'll still have perfect visibility of everything around you. Car window tinting can also prevent theft. For example, imagine that you get home after a long workday and accidentally leave a few belongings like a jacket and shoes in your backseat. If an ill-intentioned individual is wandering through your neighborhood at night looking into cars, the sight of something in your vehicle may catch their eye. They may break into your vehicle because they figured something of high value would be in there. If you have car window tint, though, they may not see anything in your vehicle at all. They may become deterred at the prospect and leave your vehicle untouched. You can also achieve this sense of increased privacy and safety when you park in a parking garage or parking lot. Makes Driving at Night Easier If you dislike driving at night, you may consider getting car window tinting. While some people may be averse to window tinting because they think it makes it difficult to see out of a window when it's dark outside, this is a misconception. Window tinting can actually reduce the glare that late-night streetlights and car headlights can cause. Be careful with the percentage of window tint you get though, as a too-high tint like 90% can defeat the purpose and make it too challenging to see out of your windows when it's dark outside. Creates a More Visually Pleasing Car Some people simply want a functional car that gets them from point A to point B, and they couldn't care less about its looks. Others take pride in their vehicle's visual appearance. If you belong to the latter group, you may consider getting window tint for your car. Many people believe that tint can provide a car with a sharper look. Tinted windows give a vehicle an added sense of flair that you simply can't achieve with non-tinted windows. If you're in the market for a new Toyota car, truck, or SUV, you can visit our dealership at Longo Toyota of Prosper and browse our inventory of new vehicles. Once you find one you like, you can request tinting services so you can drive off with a stylish and functional tint. Be sure to contact our team before your visit if you have any questions about our vehicles for sale or our tinting services.

A tuneup is a check-up of your vehicle. Depending on who you ask, it can include everything from an engine inspection to vehicle fluid replacements and mechanical repairs. If your vehicle is acting a bit off, you may be in need of a tuneup. Below, you can read about some common signs that your car needs a tuneup. more Lights Come Up on Your Dashboard 2023 Toyota Highlander If one or more lights are showing up on your dashboard that aren't normally there, there may be something wrong with your vehicle. You can refer to the owner's manual for your car to determine exactly what each light means. While it's possible to drive for hundreds of more miles with these lights lit up, you should address them as soon as possible. This way, the problems that each light indicates won't develop into more serious issues. When you bring in your vehicle for service at our dealership, the technicians at our service center at Longo Toyota of Prosper can diagnose the present issues and propose a solution. You Hear Unusual Noises Unusual noises can indicate that your car needs a tuneup. Different noises can indicate different issues. For example, a screeching sound under the hood can indicate a worn or loose serpentine belt. If you hear a chugging or rattling sound, there may be something wrong with your exhaust system. Here are some other noises to consider and their potential causes: A ticking noise while your car is idle may indicate low oil levels A clicking noise while you're turning your vehicle may be the result of poorly lubricated axles A clunking noise while driving can indicate a bad shock absorber A thudding noise from your tires can indicate poor tire pressure A loud grinding or squealing sound from your brakes can be a result of worn-out brake pads A low-pitched humming noise from under your car may indicate a failing transmission If you hear any of these noises or another kind of sound, it's important to not just turn up the music and forget about it. Our certified technicians at Longo Toyota of Prosper can address the issue and ensure your vehicle no longer makes the offending sound. Your Car Pulls to One Side Think about how your car behaves when you're driving down a straight road. If it tends to pull to the right or left and requires you to constantly adjust it, your wheels may be misaligned. This sign can not only be annoying to deal with, but it can also be dangerously distracting to your driving. It's best to take your vehicle to a reputable dealership's service center so the technicians can perform a wheel alignment or replace any damaged suspension components. Your Car Shakes When You Drive It It can be easy to dismiss a vibrating car as the result of driving on an uneven surface. Pay special attention to how your vehicle behaves when you're driving on a noticeably smooth road. If you notice excessive shaking and vibrating, there's likely an internal problem somewhere. The vibrations may only occur in the steering wheel or at higher speeds. In other cases, you may feel the shaking throughout the entire car. Regardless of the extent of the vibrations, it's important to seek tuneup services. Your Brakes Grind When You Apply Them Think about what happens when you apply your vehicle's brakes. Does your vehicle come to a smooth stop with no interruptions? Or do you feel and hear your brakes make a grinding motion as they attempt to bring the vehicle to a stop? If the latter is the case, your vehicle may have worn rotor discs or a brake pad issue. Even if your brakes work while they grind, this scraping motion can cause them to eventually become ineffective. To avoid putting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at risk, you can bring your vehicle in for a tuneup to address the problem. Your Car Accelerates Slowly When you're at a red light and it turns green, how does it feel to get your car up and going again? Do you feel like it goes from zero to 60 miles per hour easily and quickly? Or do you have to put your pedal to the metal to even pick up a little bit of speed? If your car is slow to accelerate, there may be an issue with the oxygen sensor or a bad throttle position sensor. It's important to take your car in for a tuneup if you notice slower-than-normal acceleration, as avoiding it can cause problems with accelerating to merge on the highway or make your way up a steep hill. Your Car Stalls Out Stalling is when your engine dies. In any car with an automatic transmission, stalling spells trouble. It may occur for various reasons, including ignition issues, a faulty fuel pump, or a dead battery. Your car can stall while you're driving or stopped at a red light, which can create potentially dangerous circumstances. If your car has a tendency to stall occasionally before it gets back up and running, it's important to get it to an auto service center as soon as possible. Your Car Gets Bad Gas Mileage If you suspect that your car isn't getting as good gas mileage as it used to, you can keep track of the mileage you're getting by noting it each time you go to the gas station. Document each record in a notebook or in a note on your phone. A downward trend in your gas mileage may indicate that your vehicle has a problem like a clogged fuel injector or a dirty engine air filter. Once you take your vehicle in for a tuneup and have a certified technician address the problem, you may notice your vehicle start to achieve the fuel efficiency that its manufacturer specifies. If you've noticed any of these signs or otherwise believe that your car needs a tuneup, you can schedule service here at Longo Toyota of Prosper. Our team will perform a thorough inspection and determine what maintenance and repair services your vehicle needs. We'll work efficiently and with precision so you can get back on the road with confidence.

You've probably heard that vehicle maintenance is important and eventually pays for itself, but is that really true? Owning a vehicle means committing to all of the vehicle's maintenance needs, but adhering to those needs can actually save you money in the long run and potentially keep your vehicle running well past its expected lifespan. Not to mention, vehicle maintenance doesn't cost nearly as much as frequent repairs, so it's financially wise to protect your investment by maintaining its mechanical integrity. more Here are some FAQs about vehicle maintenance to help you understand why it's important: Why Is Regular Maintenance So Important? Image by Raivis Razgals is licensed with Unsplash License Regular vehicle maintenance is important for several reasons. First, it can help prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of your vehicle. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, helps ensure that your vehicle is running at its best, which can help prevent major mechanical problems down the road. Additionally, regular maintenance can help improve the safety of your vehicle. For example, regular brake checks can help ensure that your brakes are in good working order, which is essential for safe driving. Regular maintenance can also help improve the performance of your vehicle by ensuring that all of its systems are working properly. This can help improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and maximize the usage of your vehicle. Does Vehicle Maintenance "Pay Off?" Maintaining your vehicle ultimately pays off in the long run for many reasons. Repairs and part replacements are almost always more expensive than regular maintenance. For example, taking care of your engine might require frequent oil changes and fluid checks, which only cost a few hundred dollars per year, but failing to do so can result in a repair costing thousands of dollars. Or, you can potentially total your vehicle by damaging the engine accidentally through minimal maintenance. How Long Should I Go Between Oil Changes? The recommended interval for oil changes varies depending on the type of vehicle you have and the type of oil you use. Many modern vehicles can go between 5,000 and 7,500 miles between oil changes, but it's always best to consult your owner's manual or a professional mechanic to get a specific recommendation for your vehicle. If you drive your vehicle in extreme conditions, such as very hot or cold temperatures, or if you frequently drive on rough roads, you may need to change your oil more often than the recommended interval. Do I Really Need To Rotate My Tires? Yes, rotating your tires is a necessity. Rotating your vehicle's tires is an important part of regular vehicle maintenance because it helps ensure that all of your tires wear evenly. Uneven tire wear can cause a variety of problems, such as decreased fuel efficiency, reduced traction, and reduced handling ability. Additionally, tire wear can also cause your tires to wear out prematurely, which can be costly. A tire rotation typically only takes about an hour or less to perform, and you can usually schedule a rotation with an oil change or other services. What Kind of Fuel Should I Use? The type of fuel that you should use in your vehicle depends on the specific model and make of your vehicle. Most vehicles run on gasoline, and the owner's manual will usually recommend a specific octane rating for the best performance. Some vehicles run on diesel fuel, and others can run on alternative fuels, such as ethanol. It's important to consult your owner's manual or a professional mechanic to determine the best type of fuel for your vehicle. Using the wrong type of fuel can cause problems with your vehicle's performance and may even damage the engine. What Are Some Common Vehicle Maintenance Concerns From Manufacturers? Each manufacturer has its own specific recommendations for maintaining different vehicle models. For example, a large, diesel fuel pickup truck has vastly different maintenance needs than a compact hybrid sedan. Some common vehicle maintenance concerns from manufacturers include: Checking and changing the oil and oil filter regularly: This is an important part of regular maintenance because it helps keep the engine lubricated and prevents the buildup of dirt and debris Checking and replacing the air filter: This is important because a dirty air filter can reduce the performance of your vehicle and may even cause damage to the engine Checking and replacing the spark plugs: This is important because spark plugs help ignite the air/fuel mixture in the engine, and if they are worn or fouled, it can cause problems with your vehicle's performance Checking and replacing the transmission fluid: This is important because the transmission fluid helps keep the transmission cool and lubricated. If it is low or dirty, it can cause problems with your vehicle's shifting Checking and replacing the brake pads and rotors: This is important because your brakes are an essential safety feature. If the pads or rotors are worn, it can affect your ability to stop your vehicle safely What Seasonal Maintenance Should I Do on My Vehicle? Different seasons can require different maintenance needs for a vehicle. If you live in an area with harsh winters, specific vehicle maintenance can help extend the vehicle's lifespan and ensure you're operating it safely in snowy or icy conditions. Here are some common seasonal vehicle maintenance recommendations: In the fall, check your battery, heating and cooling systems, and battery and brakes to ensure they're operational before winter In the winter, frequently check your tire pressure and equip your vehicle with winter tires. You can also check your oil and antifreeze. Consider winter-grade oil for especially cold areas In the spring, check your A/C system, alignment, and tire pressure. Cold weather can affect belts, tires, and other rubber components Maintaining your vehicle is crucial to protecting your investment and your personal safety. If you're in need of a service appointment, contact us today to get one scheduled. Our service department is here to help with any maintenance concerns and can help walk you through any necessary maintenance you're not aware of.