How to fix different types of car scratches

 We’re sorry if you’ve landed here because that probably means you just saw the scratch on your vehicle. Our Charlotte Toyota body shop experts are here to help you out decipher what type of car scratch you have and how to fix different types of car scratches. Let’s get into it. 

How do you fix different types of car scratches?

If you’re wondering how to fix different types of car scratches, our Charlotte Toyota body shop experts are Making it Simple™️ for you. Let’s get into it.

• Surface-level scratches: These types of scratches aren’t deep, but they show up on your car paint. You typically get this type of scratch from tree branches or other small objects, sometimes even debris on the road. 

• It’s easy to get rid of too, our Charlotte Toyota body shop experts recommend using a car scratch remover and a microfiber cloth to remove it.

• Clear coat scratches: These are a little more serious than surface-level scratches as these types of scratches come from fender benders, random shopping objects, and other small-to-medium objects. Your car’s paint has a clear coat on top of it and this type of scratch goes through that clear coat.

• The way you can get rid of clear coat scratches, also known as scuffs, is by heading to our Charlotte Toyota body shop and letting our expert techs use their special tools, polishes, and techniques to buff that scratch out. We want to make sure your vehicle returns to the way it was before. 

• Deep scratches: This is definitely more serious than a mere surface-level scratch. These types of scratches go through a clear coat, car paint, and the primer – chances are you may be able to see the metal on your car because of how deep it is. These types of scratches come from hitting curbs, collisions, and accidents. 

• We don’t recommend using paint pens to repair this type of scratch because your finish will be subpar and the damage will definitely still be noticeable. Definitely head over to our Charlotte Toyota body shop to get this repaired by a professional.

• Vandalism scratches: If someone keys your car…it is almost impossible to fix yourself. You must’ve messed up big time if someone keys your car…Carrie Underwood agrees.

• One of the only ways to fix this is to leave it in the hands of the Toyota of N Charlotte Collision Center.

• Paint transfers: The last type of car scratch mentioned is paint transfers – which happens when you get into a car accident. It’s in the name, but a paint transfer is when you get paint from the other car get0 rubbed onto your vehicle. 

• If you’re looking to fix a paint transfer, you can leave it to our Charlotte body shop experts to use their special compounds to remove transferred paint.

We’ve discussed the different types of car scratches and how to fix them, but now we need to look into the car scruff repair cost.

How much does a car scruff repair cost? 

If you’ve gotten one of the different types of car scratches you can expect the car scruff repair cost to be anywhere between $150-500. There is no definitive answer just because it depends on the size, severity, and depth of the car scratch. If you bring your ride over to Toyota of N Charlotte, our Charlotte body shop experts can give you an estimate, walk through insurance, and assist you in getting a rental car if needed. 

Talk to one of our Charlotte Toyota body shop experts today!

If you need help with different types of car scratches, stop by Toyota of N Charlotte. We’re located at 13429 Statesville Road. Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville!

Your Toyota Camry Tire Pressure Guide

 It’s time! Your Toyota Camry tire pressure is getting low. We’re here for you, our Charlotte Toyota service experts are giving you the low down on the latest tech, and checking your Toyota Camry tire pressure! Don’t be left on the side of the road let’s get into it! 

Toyota Tech and Your Tires - Toyota Camry Style

Toyota tech is stepping it up each year, and there are two different ways to check the tire pressure on your car. Here they are:

• Tire Pressure Gauge: Ol’ reliable, depending on when you purchased your Toyota of N Charlotte Camry, it should have this gauge. You can also measure your PSI with this gauge giving you the perfect pressure for your tires for your Toyota Camry. You just need to remove the stem cap and place the gauge right on the valve stem. Perfect! Now you have the PSI reading. 

• TPMS or Tire Pressure Monitoring System:  So, in the newer N Charlotte Toyota Camry there is TPMS. This system measures your Toyota Camry tire pressure to let you know when your tire pressure is getting low. A little warning display will appear on your dash, now you can drive with no surprises! Your tires with Toyota Camry tech will keep you not only in style but also safer. 

So now you know what tech is available for your Toyota Camry tire pressure needs but let’s get into how much air is needed for your N Charlotte Toyota. 

What is the Recommended Toyota Camry Tire Pressure?

The Toyota Camry tire pressure depends on the size of your tires. Our N Charlotte techs recommended 32 to 35 PSI for each tire. If you’re just not sure what size your tires are there’s typically a sticker just on the inside of your driver’s door that lists the tire pressure for your ride. If you have an older Toyota you may also find it in your owner's manual, if all else fails you can consult with one of our expert techs! 

Why is the Right Tire Pressure Important?

If you decide to fill your tire on your own it’s important to know the right amount of PSI. It’s not only for your safety but for the longevity of your Toyota tires. Too much pressure or not enough can result in:

• Your tread wearing faster and your brake function is reduced!

• More likely to get a flat or blown-out tire, which could leave you stranded at any moment - or worse in a fender bender. 

• Worst of all your tires could overheat, in this hot weather, no one wants that!

Make sure you’re checking your Toyota Camry tire pressure regularly, just to be sure you won’t have any accidents or incidents! 

Drive On Down to Toyota of N Charlotte

If you’re worried about your tire pressure or need an expert to check the tires for Toyota Camry lovers, come on down to Toyota of N Charlotte. Exit 23 off I-77, at 13419 Statesville Road or you can give us a call at (704) 659-2040.

Do You Need a Car Battery Test?

 You hop in your car and it doesn’t start (uh-oh).... this means your car battery has failed. So, do you know the signs of a failing car battery? Our experts at Toyota of North Charlotte are making it simple ™ by breaking down the signs of a failing car battery.

Four Signs of a Failing Car Battery

There’s key signs to keep an eye out for when it comes to your Charlotte car battery, either on the road or in your home! If you're still not sure how to check, our Toyota of North Charlotte techs are here for you! 

1.  Your car battery is swollen, bloated, or rusted.

2. Your car doesn’t start or is slow to start.

3. The headlights in your car are low or even dim.

4. The car battery light pops up on your dashboard.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs make your appointment today, our techs are here to help you and get you back on the road. Want to take a more preventative route? Schedule a car battery test instead! But what does this do for you?

Why you need a car battery test

So what happens during these tests, and why do you need one? Well, it’s always best to schedule a car battery test with an expert! They can diagnose the health of your car battery and even tell you when it's time for a replacement. Unsure? you can always come on down to Toyota of North Charlotte or give us a call to let our techs test your battery. Our expert techs use battery testers and are given readouts that mean the following:

Good: This means your battery is in good condition! You’ll be fine for a few more months; just make sure to keep an eye out during those harsh winters and summers. The weather can take a devastating toll on your battery. You can always schedule a car battery test when the seasons change!

 Weak: So your battery is weak and not performing at its best. This reading appears when your car is put through harsh weather and when you do things like leaving your lights on for long periods of time. You should keep jumper cables in your car just in case your battery starts to give you issues. If you’re getting this reading, you’ll need to replace your battery soon, so make sure you schedule your Toyota of North Charlotte car battery test and replacement ahead of time! 

 Bad: Uh-Oh! Replace your battery now, this means your car battery is already dead. Unfortunately, you’ll need your replacement battery put in as soon as possible. 

Have you noticed any of these signs of a failing car battery, or you’re unsure what your car battery test reads? Our Toyota of North Charlotte experts are here to help. We’ll test your battery, schedule your replacement, and explain what your battery is reading to best guide you.

Schedule your car battery test at Toyota of North Charlotte

If you need a car battery test schedule with Toyota of North Charlotte today! Give us a call at (704) 659-2025 or come on down to 13429 Statesville Road on I-77 at exit 23.

When do you need a car battery test?

Your car battery dying is a huge inconvenience and can be dangerous in certain situations. This is why it’s important to know the signs of a failing car battery and when it’s time to replace one. Our Charlotte Toyota auto service techs are Making it Simple™ to let you know when to get a car battery test.

Four signs of a failing car battery

Knowing the four main signs of a failing car battery can definitely help you prevent an inconvenient time when you need to drive. Here’s the list:

1. Dashboard light. The car battery light, on the dashboard, illuminates.

2. Battery case. The battery case is swelling.

3. Smell. When the hood is open and smells like a sulfur or rotten egg smell.

4. Slow start. The car has a slow start or refuses to start.

If you start to notice any of the signs of a failing battery, you’ll benefit from scheduling a car battery test at our Charlotte Toyota service center. Our Toyota techs can give you a quick diagnosis to tell you the next steps on what to do about your car battery. 

Should you replace your battery if it fails the car battery test?

If you, unfortunately, have one of the main four signs of a failing car battery, you’ll need to schedule a battery test.  Whether you decide to schedule it at Toyota of N Charlotte or another car maintenance center, you should expect that your tech will use a battery tester (well duh). The battery tester sends a jolt of electricity through the battery and then will give a simple readout. Here’s what the readout might look like

• Good. The read gives you two meanings: good news and good battery standing. You don’t have to replace your battery for at least another six months – but if you experience harsh winters or summers (like we do in N Charlotte) then it might take a toll. Our Charlotte Toyota techs recommend keeping your car inside for as long as possible and keeping an eye on it at home.

• Weak. This read gives you a signal saying it’s about time to replace it – and you should do it sooner rather than later. Our Charlotte Toyota techs recommend replacing it no longer than a week after the test reading.

• Replace now. Well…this one is pretty obvious. Make sure to check if your battery has a warranty so you can get a free/discounted replacement. 

How often should you schedule a car battery test?

Our Charlotte Toyota techs recommend getting a car battery done at least twice a year. When you’re doing your car maintenance routine, you should definitely ask your technician to run a car battery test. 

Schedule your car battery care at Toyota of N Charlotte

Have you experienced any signs of a failing car battery? Then, schedule service at Toyota of N Charlotte today.  We can help at 13429 Statesville Road. Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville or call us at (704) 659-2025 

Should you consider buying cars with 360 cameras?

When it comes to safety, Toyota has always had the latest and greatest technology so you can park, drive, and reverse, with ease. One of the features that are becoming more and more popular is cars with 360 cameras. If you aren’t sure if you want that type of Toyota technology, our N Charlotte Toyota product specialists are going to help you make up your mind. Let’s see if cars with 360 cameras are for you.

Cars with 360 Cameras – What is it? 

If you’re looking for the formal name for cars with 360 cameras, you’ll see different names. It could be a Bird’s Eye View Camera or a Surround-View Camera. But, here at Toyota of N Charlotte, we call them Panoramic View Monitors. The purpose of this technology is to give a 360-degree view of what’s around your car.

How Does This Toyota Technology Work? 

So, now that we know that cars with 360 cameras help you see what’s going around your N Charlotte Toyota. We want to know more about them and how they work. Let’s get into it:

• To see everything, Toyota usually puts four cameras in cars with 360 cameras. It helps you see everything in every direction. 

• When you see your monitor, there’s an image displayed of where your car is located. It’s compiled by multiple images that the cameras catch and it’s then combined with a software program. The monitor will show you your vehicle from a bird's eye view – showing you what’s around your car.

• You’ll also get a split-view image that will give you more to see than just your average backup camera - which will combine a bird's eye view and a backup camera. This way you won’t back up into fire extinguishers in parking garages – yes, this is a personal experience.

In addition, you can see that there are a ton of perks to having this type of N Charlotte Toyota technology. You’ll have a crystal clear image of your surroundings! Plus, you’ll have a much easier time backing into tight parking spaces, off-road terrain, terrible traffic, and other road hazards.

Which N Charlotte Toyotas cars have 360 cameras?

There are a couple of 2024 N Charlotte Toyota cars with 360 cameras. Here’s the list for you:

• Toyota Grand Highlander & Grand Highlander Hybrid

• Toyota Tacoma

• Toyota Sequoia

• Toyota 4Runner

• Toyota Tundra

• Toyota Crown

• Toyota Camry & Camry Hybrid

• Toyota bZ4X

• Toyota RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, & RAV4 Prime

• Toyota Land Cruiser

• Toyota Venza

• Toyota Sienna

• Toyota Prius & Prius Prime

• Toyota Highlander & Highlander Hybrid

Note that the 360 camera does not come on every single trim level on your N Charlotte Toyota because Toyota wants you to have options. If you are looking for cars with 360 cameras, then you can always add it on – but it is a little expensive. If the price tag is worth it to you, for the extra layer of safety, then our N Charlotte Toyota experts say it’s a good idea to add it on when purchasing your next Toyota.

Can You Install a 360 Camera in Your Car? 

If you are thinking about DIYing the installation of a 360 camera in your camera, you definitely can. However, it is sold as an aftermarket auto part. This makes it not recommended by our N Charlotte Toyota experts because you won’t get the quality, warranty, and reliability that comes with our Toyotas. Also, if you do decide to DIY it – bless your heart as it takes a long time to install.

Stop by Toyota of N Charlotte

If you want to take one of the cars with 360 cameras at our dealership for a spin and check out this tech, then stop by our dealership! We’re located at 13429 Statesville Road. Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville.

What to Do When You Overfill Your Gas Tank

We imagine you would probably panic a little if you accidentally overfilled your tank. An overfilled gas tank can definitely cause damage to a vehicle over time. However, there’s some helpful information to know to protect your N Charlotte Toyota from this situation. Let’s get into it! 

What Happens if You Overfill Your Gas Tank?

It’s okay if you’ve been in this position, it happens to the best of us! So what happens if you overfill your gas tank? (Besides probably need to buy some new shoes!) There is definitely some damage that can be caused by an overfilled gas tank, here are the details from our Toyota of N Charlotte team. 

• Damaged solenoids that can prevent your car from starting
• Purge valve failure that can cause fuel efficiency and emission issues
• A saturated charcoal canister that causes a gasoline smell and problems filling up your tank
• Problems starting and accelerating your vehicle 

Not to mention, spilling gasoline on the ground is a major contributor to pollution of the air, soil and water! This is also a serious fire hazard if the gasoline is not cleaned up immediately. Now that we know some of the potential dangers, let’s take a look at what you can do about this issue.

Here is What to Do When You Overfill Your Gas Tank

Realistically, overfilling the tank just one time will not cause any significant damage to your N Charlotte Toyota. Definitely be mindful and clean up the mess quickly (gas is extremely flammable after all). It’s also a good idea to start taking steps to prevent it from happening again in the future (not a good reoccurring problem to have).

Preventing an Overfilled Gas Tank

Let’s talk about some of the ways you can avoid overfilling your Toyota of N Charlotte vehicle’s gas tank. 

• Stay close to the pump! Listen carefully for the click when your tank is full - and this is especially important for everyone who uses the pump handle lock. 
• Pay attention! It’s tempting to be on your phone or sitting in the car, but as soon as the pump clicks you need to be ready to pull the pump out immediately.
• Don’t try to “top off” your tank! A lot of people will try to squeeze a few extra drops into the tank after the pump clicks. Really, it’s just not possible to get extra fuel in the tank and can end up causing gas to spill out everywhere. 

Visit us at Toyota of N Charlotte 

Whether you have more questions about an overfilled gas tank or other auto service needs, stop by Toyota of N Charlotte! We’re at 13429 Statesville Road. Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville. We look forward to helping you out with your ride!

Do you know where to find the VIN number on your N Charlotte Toyota?

Have you ever bought or sold a car and wondered what is a VIN number – maybe even where to find the VIN number? Well, you’re not alone. To start, VIN is short for a ‘vehicle identification number’. VINs are very important and they share a lot of information about your N Charlotte Toyota. Our Toyota of N Charlotte specialists are Making it Simple™ and sharing everything you need to know about your VIN. 

How to decode a VIN number

Before you know where to find your VIN number, you should know what a VIN is and what it means. To answer, a VIN is a series of 17 characters – both numbers and letters – that are assigned to each car by the automotive manufacturer. If your car is from 1981 or before, there’s a possibility that your N Charlotte Toyota’s VIN has fewer characters.

A VIN is never going to change throughout your N Charlotte Toyota’s lifetime and is completely unique – so no car will share the same VIN with another car. Here’s how to decode your VIN:

• The first character indicates the continent where the car was built.

• The second and third characters tell you about the auto manufacturer.

• The fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth characters tell you the vehicle brand, engine size, and engine type.

• The ninth character is a security code used by the manufacturer.

• The tenth character tells you the model year of your N Charlotte Toyota.

• The eleventh character tells you about the assembly plant where the car was put together.

• The last set of characters is a serial number that’s unique to your car.

What are VIN numbers used for?

Now you know what a VIN is and how to decode it, but what are they realistically used for? It’s more important than you think. Let’s get into it.

• One of the main reasons is if your N Charlotte Toyota gets stolen, the police can identify your car with the VIN and hopefully bring it back to you.

• You’ll also need it for your car insurance because insurance companies use the VIN to match your insurance policy to your car. Your insurance could be invalidated if you accidentally give them the wrong VIN – so make sure to double-check!

• If you’re looking to buy a used car near Charlotte, then you’ll need to pull a vehicle history report to see its history. You’ll want to know what you’re getting yourself into before buying. 

How to tell if a vehicle is AWD by VIN

As we’ve shared earlier, your VIN gives you a lot of information. But, if you’ve ever wanted to know if your vehicle is AWD, you can tell it by your car’s VIN. But, how do you tell if a vehicle is AWD by VIN? It’s pretty simple! You’ll just pull a vehicle history report, which you can do with CarFax, or use a VIN decoder, which you can do with the Department of Vehicles’s online tool. Also, when you’re reading through the information, you’ll notice that there’s more information than just if it's AWD or not.

Now you know why the VIN is important. The final step is to see where to find the VIN number on your N Charlotte Toyota.

A guide on where to find the VIN number

Where is your VIN located on your N Charlotte Toyota? Here are some of the most common places to find it:

• Stamped on your dashboard close to the windshield on the driver’s side

• On a small metal plate or sticker on the driver’s side door jamb

• Stamped on the engine firewall

• On your vehicle title and registration paperwork

• On your vehicle’s insurance car and insurance policy paperwork

• In the trunk – could be on the inside of a car’s liftgate or the floor next to the spare tire well

• On the frame – check the driver’s side

• On the window sticker

Not sure where to find the VIN number? Talk to an N Charlotte Toyota specialist.

Have trouble finding the VIN on your N Charlotte Toyota, or want tips on how to read your vehicle history report? Contact Toyota of N Charlotte today! We’re open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.