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3 Things to Love About the 2024 Toyota RAV4

Versatile, spacious, and efficient, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 is one of the leading competitors in its segment, offering all the desirable perks that families big and small are looking for. If you are searching for the best compact SUV in the market, here are some features that will make you fall in love with the new RAV4. This great new model is now available at your local Toyota dealership, so hit the road and come check it out today! 1. A Responsive, Powerful, and Rugged Powertrain The 2024 RAV4 is available in six trim levels, offering different styles and specs. All models, however, are powered by the same capable and efficient powertrain configuration, which boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, achieves 203 horsepower and 184 pounds of torque. While most models come with front-wheel drive, AWD is optional on the LE, XLE, and XLE Premium trims, and standard on Adventure, Limited, and TRD Off-Road models. Besides delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience, the 2024 RAV4 also boasts great EPA fuel economy indicators, making it the perfect vehicle to go on road trips and off-road adventures. Base FWD models are rated at 27 miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the AWD Limited trim level achieves 25 mpg and 33 mpg, respectively. 2. Cutting-Edge Tech Features As soon as you step inside the cabin of the 2024 RAV4, you will fall in love with its stylish digital displays and its modern infotainment system. Base models come with an eight-inch touchscreen, while the TRD Off-Road and Limited trim levels boast a 10.5-inch display. Some of the standard features across the board include a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and Bluetooth audio streaming. Besides a cutting-edge infotainment system, the 2024 RAV4 also boasts some of the latest driver-assist and safety technologies in the industry, as well as the highest NHTSA safety ratings. The entire lineup of this compact SUV is equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, electronic stability control, a back-up camera, and tire pressure monitoring. 3. A Spacious and Comfortable Cabin Another characteristic that makes the new RAV4 a wonderful vehicle for families big and small is its incredibly comfortable, versatile, and roomy cabin. All trim levels have seating capacity for five occupants, with 41.0 inches of legroom in the front and 37.8 inches in the rear row. Folding the rear seat backs increases the cargo capacity of this Toyota SUV to an impressive 69.8 cubic feet. Now that you know more about the three best features of the 2024 RAV4, it's time to check it out in person and take it on a test drive! Give us a call at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN, and we'll help you schedule a visit to our showroom.

Getting an Engine Diagnostic for Your Toyota

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​In the old days, identifying a problem in your car could take time. A mechanic had to carefully examine one or more systems and test them to find the source of trouble. Since the 1980s, cars have had computers, and the computer makes diagnosis faster, easier, and cheaper than ever before. As your Toyota dealer, we want to tell you about how an engine diagnostic works and some of the potential faults it can reveal. Computer and Sensors Your computer has a vast network of sensors that connect to it. Each of these sensors is connected to an important system, like the alternator or the fuel injectors. These sensors receive instructions from the computer and also scan their attached components for any sign of trouble. If something goes wrong with a component, the sensor sends the information to your computer almost instantly. When your computer receives the information, it generates an error code pointing to the problem in the affected system and stores this information in its memory. The computer also causes one or more of the warning lights on your dash to illuminate. The warning light could highlight a specific system, for example, the brake pad warning, or identify a more general issue, like an illuminated check engine light. What a Diagnostic Does When you bring your car to us with an illuminated warning light, we can quickly identify the reason for the warning light by connecting your computer to our diagnostic machine. This machine will show a list of any error codes the computer has generated. Some error codes are generic and apply to many different makes and models, but most codes are specific to your Toyota. Our diagnostic system has been supplied by Toyota, and can rapidly identify any possible error code in your vehicle. Using the diagnostic machine saves you time and money, as we can identify and repair a problem far more affordably and save you lost time away from your Toyota. Benefits of a Diagnostic A diagnostic can reveal a wide variety of issues. Many drivers don't know that sensors can detect even a tiny change in their connected components. The changes a diagnostic reveals may be a long way from becoming a serious issue. Once we've identified what's wrong, we can repair the problem or replace the affected components before they can cause any damage. Most potential faults can be identified by a diagnostic check. These include brake malfunctions, transmission failures, exhaust blockages, and engine trouble. Many drivers also get a diagnostic to have the peace of mind of knowing that their vehicle is in great shape and has not reported problems at all. If you'd like to know more or to book a diagnostic, contact our service department today at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN.

Meet the 2024 Toyota Highlander

With a modern design, comfortable seating for up to eight passengers, and a host of cutting-edge tech features, the 2024 Toyota Highlander has all the elements that make a great family SUV. If you are looking for a new responsive, versatile, and spacious vehicle for you and your loved ones, this is a model you should definitely check out. Get in touch with your local Toyota dealer and discover the new Highlander in person today. Performance and Efficiency The 2024 Highlander offers drivers a choice between a traditional gas engine and a hybrid powertrain configuration. Gas-powered models come with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 265 horsepower and 310 pounds of torque. Hybrid Highlanders, on the other hand, feature two electric motors and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that pair with a continuously variable transmission for a combined 243 horsepower and 175 pounds of torque. It is no surprise that the hybrid models of the 2024 Highlander offer the best fuel economy indicators, boasting impressive EPA ratings of 36 miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Equipped with the base 2.4-liter gas engine, the Highlander achieves 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Space, Comfort, and Safety Space and versatility are two key elements that are often mentioned in expert and customer reviews of the 2024 Highlander. Although all models can seat up to eight passengers in their standard configuration, trim levels XLE and higher can be equipped with comfortable captain's chairs in the second row, reducing their seating capacity to seven. This new Toyota SUV offers 42.0 inches of legroom in the front seats, 38.7 in the second row, and 28.0 in the third one. While the 2024 Highlander is designed to deliver all the space and comfort you and your family deserve, this Toyota SUV is also equipped with class-leading safety technologies and driver-assist features. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assistance, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, electronic stability control, and automatic high beams are standard across the board. Connectivity and Infotainment The LE and XLE models of the new Highlander feature an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, while a larger 12.3-inch setup is available in higher trims. Some of the standard infotainment and connectivity features that can be found in the entire lineup include SiriusXM satellite radio, Amazon Alexa integration, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Are you ready to explore the great features of the new Highlander and check out other fantastic Toyota models in your area? Come visit us today at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, TN, and we'll give you and your family a tour of our showroom.

Get to Know the 2024 Toyota 4Runner

If you are looking for an old-school SUV with a rugged exterior and a truck-style frame, you need to stop by your Toyota dealership to check out the 4Runner. The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is powerful and versatile, with an electronic rear-locking differential that ensures you can tackle challenging trails with ease. The spacious interior of this SUV seats up to seven passengers, with plenty of room for your camping gear. You can enjoy serious offroad adventures when you drive the 4Runner with its incredible available Crawl Control system. The advanced CRAWL system works by automatically modulating your throttle and brakes through five low-speed settings. This lets you focus on navigating the terrain ahead instead of your gas and brake pedals. Multi-Terrain Monitor Keep your eyes on the road while this SUV monitors the obstacles around you. The available Multi-Terrain Monitor on this SUV uses your 8-inch touchscreen display to project live video feed from cameras placed around the vehicle. These cameras behave like an extra set of eyes and let you confidently navigate trails and rugged terrain. KDSS Equip your 4Runner with the available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System or the KDSS. The KDSS is engineered to decouple the sway bars on this SUV automatically when needed. This increases wheel articulation over rocks and debris. Once the trail has flattened out, the sway bars automatically reconnect, ensuring that you have maximum control everywhere you go. Power Rear Glass The standard power rear window on this SUV makes it easy to access your cargo area. The glass on the rear window raises and lowers with just the press of a button. Walk up to the vehicle, press the button, stash your gear, and head on to the next adventure. Passenger Seating You can seat up to seven inside this SUV when you opt for the SR5 or Limited models. The third-row seat folds at a 50/50 split, making it easy to lay down. The flat-folding second row of this SUV folds at a 40/20/40. When the second row is laid flat, this SUV boasts up to 88.8 cubic feet of maximum cargo space for you to enjoy. Power off the Grid Outdoor adventures can take you to many places, and when you drive the 4Runner, you can take electricity with you. This SUV is outfitted with a 120V AC power outlet in the cargo area. This lets you charge your phone or power an air compressor while you are out adventuring. If you are looking for an adventure-ready SUV, consider the incredible features of the '24 Toyota 4Runner. We know your life is busy, so don't let shopping for a new vehicle get in the way. Give us a call at Toyota of Kingsport in Kingsport, Tennessee, to ask us about our SmartPath shopping options and how you can have your next family vehicle delivered today.

What's Covered Under Toyota's Standard New Car Warranty?

If a part is covered by your new car warranty, then you will be able to save hundreds of dollars at your Toyota dealer if a major component needs to be replaced or repaired. Learn more about the coverage limitations and exclusions of your new vehicle warranty. Four warranties come with a new Toyota vehicle. Basic Coverage is a limited bumper-to-bumper warranty plan that lasts for 36 months or up to 36,000 miles. This warranty will cover the cost of repairs for defective parts, materials, and workmanship, but it will not cover normal wear and tear or routine maintenance. Powertrain Coverage lasts for 60 months or 60,000 miles and covers parts such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Rust-Through Coverage lasts for 60 months and covers corrosion perforation, such as corrosion on the sheet metal of your vehicle's body. Your new Toyota may also have Emissions Coverage, which is determined by federal and local regulations. Is Wear and Tear Covered? It's common for a new vehicle warranty or an extended warranty to exclude the repair costs of components that need to be replaced through normal wear and tear. Several parts of your vehicle need to be continually replaced, such as windshield wiper blades and brake pads. Your warranty will not cover cosmetic wear and tear damage or the costs of routine maintenance like oil changes, either. As a note, your warranty will also not likely cover the cost of vehicle repairs after an accident. If a covered part is damaged as the result of an accident or environmental damage, you will need to rely on your auto insurance for repair costs. Are Accessories Covered? If you have a factory-installed accessory or an accessory purchased and installed at the dealership at the time of purchase, then these genuine Toyota accessories will be covered for 36 months or 36,000 miles. This warranty starts from the first day of the vehicle's in-service date. If you purchase a genuine Toyota accessory at any other time, then the accessory will have a warranty period of 12 months starting from the day the accessory was installed. The accessory may also be covered by the remainder of your limited vehicle warranty if this warranty provides better coverage. Ask Your Toyota Dealer: Does Your Hybrid Have a Warranty? Hybrid and plug-in hybrid motors are more common for today's vehicles. If you buy a hybrid Toyota, you will need to be aware of the special hybrid-related component warranty. In addition to the standard new vehicle warranty coverages, your hybrid-related components like the battery will also be covered for eight years or 100,000 miles. If you have a hybrid produced after the 2020 model year, your warranty may be for 10 years or 150,000 miles. A warranty is a great resource to save on the cost of expensive vehicle repairs. To discuss your warranty coverage in detail, contact Toyota of Kingsport.

2024 Toyota Camry

Your Guide to the 2024 Toyota Camry

If you're looking for a car that offers strong performance, exceptional fuel efficiency, and a luxurious, tech-laden cabin, the 2024 Toyota Camry is here at your nearby Toyota dealer and ticks off all of these boxes while offering the following highlights. Fuel-Savvy Performance Both of the powerful engines available for the 2024 Camry provide reliable performance and outstanding fuel economy on long journeys. The first is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that comes integrated with your choice of a gas or hybrid powertrain, delivering 206 horsepower and up to 39 MPG on highways with the gas option and 208 horses and an estimated 46 MPG with the hybrid variant. The other engine is a 301-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 that lends the vehicle as much as 33 MPG, providing a nice balance of muscle and fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive is an available option and provides strong traction and excellent handling snow, on slippery roads, and around sharp curves. Comfort and Technology This edition's interior rolls out the red carpet with plenty of luxury and comfort features, including thermal settings for both the front-row seats and the steering wheel, a panoramic glass roof, and a 60/40 bench seat that folds down in split-fold fashion as needed. Many sophisticated interior trims contribute to the cabin's upscale appearance, such as the wood inlay and patterned-metal schemes. Interior tech features include a 9-inch full-color infotainment display that puts turn-by-turn navigation guidance, entertainment options, and both texting and calling options at your fingertips, as well as voice recognition software for times when you're driving. Complementing this is a premium JBL audio system with nine speakers and the 10-inch Head-Up Display, which shows you important notifications and information on your windshield. Safety and Convenience Impressive driver-assist features are also offered with this edition, including Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which lets you pre-select an automated cruising speed on highways, and whenever you need to slow down to avoid other vehicles, this system can automatically do this for you. Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is also convenient, as it keeps tabs on vehicles nearby, and when one enters your blind spot zones or starts crossing lanes directly behind you, you'll be alerted to this. While in busy parking lots, Front and Rear Parking Assist can sense if other vehicles or objects are behind you as you're reversing or in front of you as you're attempting to park and will first warn you before recruiting Automatic Braking to help you avoid a collision. Stylish luxuries, stunning performance, and all the latest technology to spice up drives - this edition has something to offer everyone. Contact us today at Toyota of Kingsport to come take it for a test drive.

Car paint

5 Keys to Protecting Your Toyota's Car Paint

If you want your Toyota to look as good as new for thousands of miles, it's essential to protect the paint. To help you preserve your vehicle's appearance, your Toyota dealer provides helpful tips on the best car paint protection techniques. 1. Regularly Wash Your Car Washing your car at least once a week is your first defense against damage. Dust, dirt, and insects can damage the paint job, and due to their acidic nature, tree sap and bird droppings can eat away at the clear coat and the paint. To prevent this from happening, wash your car regularly with specialized cleaners to avoid stripping the wax. Use a microfiber cloth for drying to prevent streaks and scratches. 2. Protect the Paint From the Sun Protect your car from the sun by parking in the shade or under cover. Prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful rays can cause fading and oxidation of the color, which can ruin a car's finish faster than you think. To avoid damaging the paint, park under a carport or in a garage whenever possible. If you park in the shade, watch out for tree sap that will damage the paint. 3. Make Use of a Car Cover If you have to park your car in direct sunlight for extended periods, a high-quality, water-resistant car cover can work wonders to shield your car's paint from sun damage. Consider a metallic cover in a lighter color in summer, as it's the best option to reflect the sun's heat. 4. Wax Your Car Protecting your car's clear coat with paste wax, liquid wax, or detailing spray every few months will protect the paint against pollution, street salt, and the sun's harmful rays. Paste wax can remove fine scratches, liquid wax is easier to apply and buff off, and detailing spray offers quick protection but is less effective. 5. Apply Long-Lasting Protection There are a few options that will protect your vehicle's paint over a long period. Synthetic waxes or sealants in spray or liquid form can give your car a glossy finish, and the protection can last up to six months. Ceramic coating comes in a convenient spray bottle, is easy to apply, offers excellent protection against dirt, chemical damage, and minor scratches, and, although a bit more expensive, lasts longer. If you want to safeguard your vehicle's vulnerable areas against minor scratches and chips, applying a paint protection film to the hood, bumpers, and doors is a great option. Although costly, it provides the ultimate protection against wear and damage. If you want to protect your vehicle's paint from the elements and keep it looking shiny and new, drop by Toyota of Kingsport today. Our knowledgeable staff can provide more information on protecting your paint job and help you choose the best paint protection technique.

Introducing the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The roomy and sophisticated 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is one of the greatest family vehicles on the market today. It's versatile, powerful, and has space for everything you need. Check it out at your local Toyota Dealer. Big Enough for All No matter how many people you have in your party, this Grand Highlander model can handle them all thanks to a third row that provides plenty of room to stretch out. Eight people can fit comfortably in this vehicle and even stretch their legs on longer drives. Plus, you'll enjoy an enormous 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space, and thanks to a hands-free power liftgate, you'll be able to load up everything quickly and easily. In addition to the space, you'll find lots of space for all your gadgets, including storage in the front and back of the vehicle. Performance That Won't Let You Down This vehicle is one of the most powerful ones you'll find on the market today, thanks to a 2.4L turbocharged engine and 310 pounds of torque. Thanks to the 8-speed transmission, you'll always be prepared for every road condition, and all-wheel drive keeps you safe and stable in any weather. This ride lets you feel comfortable exploring city and country roads. Plus, there are several drive modes, so you can choose the one right for you. Select Multi-Terrain, Trail, Eco, or Normal mode. Great Interior Amenities The inside of this vehicle aims to please everyone with three different climate control zones so everyone can select the ideal temperature for the ride. Plus, there's a heated steering wheel, ventilated and heated seats, and seven intelligently placed USB cords throughout the vehicle so that everyone can easily charge their devices. Technology That Works for You These vehicles come with state-of-the-art technology designed to help you navigate the road and react to sudden changes or obstacles. Excellent features like Traffic Jam Assist help you seamlessly accelerate and brake to go with slower traffic flow. The Digital Rearview Mirror With Homelink allows drivers to get a crystal-clear picture of everything going on behind the vehicle and even automatically sharpens the picture or eliminates glare, and the Panoramic View Monitor allows you to have eyes around you in every direction, quickly alerting you to everything that might come into your path. Multimedia for Everyone Thanks to excellent multimedia features, everyone will stay entertained even on longer rides. The 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system uses voice recognition to provide you with up-to-date directions or change up your music or podcasts. It's also fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You'll have complete control over your entire catalog and never have to take your eyes off the road. This vehicle will certainly never let you or your family down. Stop in to Toyota of Kingsport and take one of these models for a spin today.

Trim Levels of the 2024 Toyota Corolla

When it comes to compact cars, nothing can beat the 2024 Toyota Corolla. This flagship model has a few upgrades this year, including hybrid models for eco-conscious drivers. Learn more about the exciting features of this great sedan before you visit your Toyota dealer. Trim Levels of the 2024 Toyota Corolla The 2024 Toyota has four trim levels for drivers to choose from. Each of these trims has a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder dynamic force engine, which can generate 196 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and a dynamic shift continuously variable transmission are standard for all four trims. Other standard features for all trims are an eight-inch Toyota Audio multimedia touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. LE The LE trim gets 32 MPG in the city, 41 MPG on the highway, and 35 MPG combined. This base trim level has standard 16-inch steel wheels with covers, LED headlights, LED taillights, and LED daytime running lights. Automatic climate control, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, and a multi-function remote keyless entry system are also standard. SE The SE trim builds on the base LE trim with standard features such as 18-inch graphic-colored alloy wheels, a single exhaust with dual chrome tips, and a Sport mesh front grille in Gloss Black. This trim gets 31 MPG in the city, 40 MPG on the highway, and 34 MPG combined. The SE trim has a smart key system with push-button start. Nightshade The Nightshade trim has a few interesting exterior details, such as blackout badging, black heated power outside mirrors, and 18-inch bronze-finished alloy wheels. This trim also has Sport seats with sport fabric inserts and a 4.2-inch color TFT multi-information display. The Nightshade trim has Normal, Sport, and Eco driving modes. XSE The highest trim level has standard features such as SofTex-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a steering wheel with paddle shifters. A power tilt moonroof with a sliding sunshade and gray metallic sport side rocker panels allow the XSE to stand out. This trim also supports wireless smartphone charging and has a seven-inch fully digital gauge cluster. Ask Your Toyota Dealer About Corolla Hybrid Models In addition to the four gas trim levels, the 2024 Corolla also has four hybrid models. Each of the hybrid rims has a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 138 horsepower. Front-wheel drive and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission are standard for each hybrid trim. The hybrid SE and Nightshade trims have a combined EPA estimate of 47 MPG, while the hybrid XLE and LE trims get 50 MPG combined. A hybrid Corolla is a great option if you want to maximize your fuel economy. The 2024 Corolla is an excellent car for urban drivers and commuters. Contact Toyota of Kingsport to schedule a test drive of your favorite gas or hybrid model today.

A First Look at the 2024 Toyota Tundra

In the world of full-sized pickups, Toyota's Tundra has earned legendary status thanks to its unbeatable reliability, strong performance, and practical interior. At their local Toyota dealership, buyers will be wowed by its advanced technology and a long list of creature comforts. Here's your quick guide to the 2024 Toyota Tundra! Engines and Transmission The Tundra offers three flavors of its twin-turbocharged 3.4L i-Force V6 engine. While the SR model gets a 358-horsepower engine, other trims have been fitted with a 389-horsepower version of the engine that also increases torque from 406 lb-ft to 479 lb-ft. The most powerful motor is the available i-Force Max, a hybrid power plant that puts out a whopping 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. All options will be mated to a lightning-quick 10-speed automatic transmission that boasts precise gearshifts, manual sequential shifting, and uphill/downhill shift logic. Off-Road Capability Every Tundra is available with Toyota's dependable 4WDemand four-wheel drive system, complemented by an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case and an automatic limited-slip differential. Adding a locking rear differential further enhances traction. The four-wheel drive system can even be optimized for specific environments with its optional Multi-Terrain Select system and its mud, rock, sand, and mogul modes. When fitted with the Adaptive Variable Suspension, the Tundra continually adjusts its dampers to ensure confident handling and a smooth riding experience while navigating through rough terrain. Towing and Hauling The Tundra's sturdy construction and plentiful torque allow it to tow a maximum of 12,000 pounds. Payload capacity is impressive, as well, at up to 1,940 pounds. The bed itself is reinforced with a combination of aluminum and a high-strength, sheet-molded composite material, resulting in an incredible resistance to impacts. There are two available tow/haul modes, so you'll enjoy easy handling, whether you're pulling a small boat or a large camper. An available deck rail system provides a variety of ways to secure your cargo, and it can accommodate everything from camping equipment to ATVs. Interior In its Double Cab form, the Tundra seats five people and has longer bed lengths at 6.5 feet and 8.1 feet. Featuring a 5.5-foot-long bed, the CrewMax is ideal for families with its generous legroom of 41.6 inches. The attractive interior features a streamlined look with very user-friendly controls and lots of storage compartments and cubbies. Available wood trim and genuine leather upholstery make the cabin extra inviting. Other premium options include heated and ventilated seats, a 10-way power driver's seat with lumbar support, and a 10-inch heads-up display. As for infotainment, you'll be able to choose between an 8- or 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, mobile Wi-Fi support, and SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility. Incorporating years of refinement, Toyota's Tundra continues to hold its place as one of the top pickup trucks on the market. Contact Toyota of Kingsport today and schedule your test drive!

Does Your Toyota Need a New Car Air Filter?

We all know how much love and care we pour into our Toyotas. From taking it to the Toyota dealer to ensure the oil is fresh to checking the tire pressure, regular maintenance can help keep your car running smoothly. There's one little component under the hood that may escape regular attention, however: the car air filter. What Does the Air Filter Do? The air filter of your vehicle acts a bit like its lungs. Just like we need clean air to breathe, your Toyota's engine needs clean air to function at its best. The air filter ensures that the air entering the engine is free from contaminants like dirt, dust, and other pesky particles. Having a clean air filter allows for better combustion, improves fuel efficiency, and overall, helps you have a happier, healthier engine. Signs Your Toyota May Need a New Car Air Filter Not sure when it's time to swap out that old filter for a new one? There are a couple of signs that you can watch out for to be sure you don't leave your car struggling with a dirty filter. Drop in Fuel Efficiency If you've noticed that your car's miles per gallon have taken a little tumble, it might be due to a dirty air filter. When it's clogged, the engine has to work harder, using up more fuel in the process. Weird Engine Sounds When idling, your Toyota's engine should purr like a contented cat. However, if it's making odd noises or sounds rougher than usual, it might be gasping for cleaner air through a dirt-clogged filter. Reduced Horsepower Remember the oomph you feel when you press down on the accelerator? If your car has started feeling sluggish when accelerating, a choked air filter might be the culprit. Black Smoke or Flames From the Exhaust If your exhaust is emitting black smoke or even small flames, it's a pretty clear sign that something is wrong. The engine may be getting too much fuel and not enough it, leading to unburned fuel escaping through the exhaust. Check Engine Light If your check engine light flashes on, don't panic. While the light can turn on for a variety of reasons, a clogged air filter can be one of the simpler causes. Visual Inspection Sometimes the simplest way to tell is just to take a peek! If you open up the air filter and it looks dirty, clogged, or dark, it's a clear indicator that it's time for a change. Replace Your Air Filter at Your Toyota Dealer While it might seem like an air filter is a minor piece of your car, it plays a pivotal role in keeping your Toyota running smoothly. Fortunately, checking and replacing it is a straightforward task that won't break the bank. The experts at your local dealership will have you and your car in and out in no time! Give your Toyota the breath of fresh air it deserves! Not only will it reward you with better performance and fuel efficiency, but you'll also know you're doing your part to keep it running smoothly. If you think it's time to make the change, visit Toyota of Kingsport to give your car the care it needs.

Time for New Tires? Visit Your Toyota Dealer

With over 11,000 crashes caused each year by blowouts or skids, tire failure is a risk that every driver should take seriously. New tires are far less likely to experience problems than old, damaged, or worn-down tires. If you notice any of the following signs of tire trouble, head to your local Toyota dealer for a new set of tires without delay. Aging Tires No matter how good the condition of your tires, it's wise to replace them after they reach a certain age. Most tire manufacturers will recommend tire replacements after six years or so. Check the recommended age limit for your own particular brand. Even if you drive less frequently and far than the average driver, tire rubber tends to wear down and lose strength over time, eventually becoming unsafe to drive on. Well-Traveled Tires Another metric to pay attention to is how much usage you've put your tires through. After a certain number of miles, all tires eventually need to be replaced. It's best to know the mileage limit on your tire manufacturer's warranty and replace your tires once you reach that number. This is often around 60,000 miles, though the figure will vary from brand to brand. Shallow Treads No matter the age or mileage, if a tire's tread depth becomes too shallow to grip the road reliably, it's time for replacement tires. The minimum safe tread depth is usually considered to be 2/32 of an inch. During winter, when you need more tread depth to maintain traction on slippery surfaces, you may want to replace your tires before their treads become this shallow. Bulging Rubber Internal damage can sometimes cause the external rubber of tires to bulge. If you ever notice a bulge in one of your tires, have it checked at once by a technician. An internal puncture may have caused the bulge, meaning the tire is no longer safe to use. Excessive Cracks Small cuts of holes in a tire may be reparable, but multiple cracks spreading throughout the sidewalls usually mean the tire has to go. Cracks are often caused by the rubber's chemicals and moisture dissipating, leaving the rubber brittle, inflexible, and susceptible to damage and blowouts. Plummeting Pressure Tire pressure should always be maintained at the optimal level recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer. If your monthly air pressure checks or automatic tire pressure monitor ever shows you that a tire is steadily losing air, you may have a hidden puncture on your hands. Any tire that can no longer hold air reliably will usually have to go. Have your tires checked, rotated, or replaced today at Toyota of Kingsport. Since 1978, our award-winning family-owned dealership has been taking care of the region's drivers with excellent vehicles and customer service.

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