Driving in Traffic After the Holidays

Now that the stress of Thanksgiving and Christmas are over, you might be gearing up to start packing to head back home. Unfortunately, many others are packing up as well, which will leave you stuck driving in traffic. At Toyota of N Charlotte, we’ve gathered the best tips for driving in traffic this holiday season. You’ll want to follow these Charlotte Toyota driving tips, so that you stay safe to start the New Year on the right foot. 

Five Tips for Driving in Traffic 

Tip #1 Leave plenty of extra time. 

Before you head out on the highway this year, be sure to leave yourself plenty of extra time to get back home. There can be countless Charlotte Toyota road hazards along the way, and crazy traffic along the way. Before you head out and start driving in traffic, be sure to drive a little bit slower than you typically would. There will likely be more car accidents on your way back home, so it’s best to try to avoid these. 

Tip #2 Make sure your car is ready for the road. 

Toyota of N Charlotte also suggests to make sure your car is ready to tackle the road this New Year’s. We suggest to stop by Toyota of N Charlotte for a car maintenance check. Our expert auto service technicians can check your car battery and make sure all of your fluid levels are topped off before you start driving in traffic. The last thing you’d want is to get stuck on the side of the road. 

Tip #3 Check the weather and traffic. 

Also, it’s best to check the weather and traffic before driving in traffic this New Year’s. It’s best to stay prepared and check the weather so you don’t get stuck in the snow or in bumper-to-bumper traffic. You can also prepare mentally before heading out on the road. 

Tip #4 Don’t let distractions get in the way. 

Toyota of N Charlotte also recommends to practice defensive driving on the way back home. We know it can be easy to get distracted while driving home, but it’s very important that you do. 

Tip #5 Prep for the winter weather if necessary. 

If you’re headed home from up north, then you’ll need to make sure you have everything you need in case of emergency. Before you head out and start driving in traffic, be sure you have an emergency kit, blankets, water, flashlights, non-perishable food, and some extra clothes in case you get stuck in the snow. 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte today! 

If you want more safety tips about driving during New Year’s, then give us a call at (704) 875-9199! We can check your car and make sure everything is in working order. Just book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road! Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville. We look forward to seeing you and having our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians check your car! 

How to get rid of your old car: N Charlotte Toyota tips

 

Do you have a used car that you need to get rid of? Unlike household items, you can't just leave it on the curb for sanitation to pick up or drop it at the Salvation Army. It's a little more complex than that when it comes to getting rid of your old car. There are specific ways to get rid of a used car and our N Charlotte Toyota experts are here to give you all the options. Check it out! 

Five ways to get rid of your used car

Option #1: Trade it in or sell it to a dealership (like us). If your used car still has some life in it and you want to get your money's worth, you should consider trading it in OR selling it at a dealership like Toyota of N Charlotte. We'll give you cash for your car (even if you don't buy a new one from us) and we'll also handle all of the transaction paperwork, like transferring the tag and title, etc. 

Option #2: Sell it privately. You can also sell your used car privately. This allows you to set a price point on your own and decide how high or low you want to go. The only hassle with this option is that it requires a lot of leg work. You'll have to advertise the car, set up and go on test drives, and when it's sold, do all of the accompanying paperwork yourself (which means you'll have to trek down to the DMV - DREAD). 

Option #3: Kick it to the curb online. You also have the option of selling your car online to companies that buy them. They'll typically pick the car up from your house, but keep in mind that you won't be able to haggle the price. 

Option #4: Donate it. If you feel like being a do-gooder, why not donate your ride? You can always find an organization that's looking for a car and not only will it make you feel good to give back, but it'll also be a tax write-off for you. Be sure to consult with your accountant if you take this route of getting rid of your used car! 

Option #5: Junk it. If the car isn't fit to sell, trade, or donate, it may be time to junk it. Some junkyards will buy your cars as they can use the parts and some will just take them. You'll have to set up transportation for the vehicle, but it'll be off your hands. 

Set up a free appraisal at Toyota of N Charlotte 

How will you get rid of your used car? If you have questions or want to set up an appraisal appointment with our used cars director, call us. Toyota of North Charlotte is open seven days a week at (704) 875-9199 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. 

Car maintenance for your older ride: What you should know

 Is your car getting up there in terms of years, mileage, or both? An older vehicle doesn't necessarily mean unreliable; nor should it mean you have to spend a fortune on car care just to keep it up and running. However, just like anything else, as it gets older you may have to give it a little more TLC to keep it in the best shape possible. Check out these car maintenance tips for older cars from our expert Charlotte auto service techs and give your car the love it needs to keep it going for miles to come. 

Five car maintenance tips for older vehicles 

Tip #1: Check your features regularly. As your car ages, things will start to wear out (there's really no getting around it). This is why it's important to routinely test your car's features like the A/C, defroster, radio, power seats, power outlets, etc. to ensure each is working as it should. If something seems like it's on the way out, figure out if it's worth repairing now to get ahead or if you can live without it. 

Tip #2: Be realistic about repairs. Yes, you want your car to stay in working condition (and for you to live that no car payment life) for as long as possible. But it's important to be realistic about your car's repairs. Consider the cost of the repair versus the value of your N Charlotte Toyota - would it be better to take the money you'd use for the repair and put it down on a new car? If you're not sure, you can always ask our Charlotte car maintenance techs for advice. 

Tip #3: Come up with workarounds. If the repair you need is going to cost you a little more than what you're comfortable with, try to be creative and come up with a workaround. Radio no longer working? What about leaving a Bluetooth speaker in the car? Consider the issue and see if there's a way to fix it more affordably before you shell out big bucks for repairs. 

Tip #4: Don't let routine car maintenance fall to the wayside. As your N Charlotte Toyota ages, it's even more critical to stick to a car maintenance routine. Make sure you stay on top of routine auto service like oil changes, tuneups, brake service, and tire rotations. Not only will scheduled car care keep your car in the best shape, it'll also keep other issues from arising as a result and save you time and money. 

Tip #5: Address issues ASAP. It's always tempting to ignore that funny sound coming from the engine bay or to act like you don't see the check engine light... but don't. Small issues can quickly become big problems in older vehicles, so you want to stay on top of it. If you notice something, just call our Charlotte car maintenance center and schedule an appointment to drop by and have our techs take a look at it. 

Schedule car care at Toyota of N Charlotte today 

Have questions or need to get car maintenance on the books? Call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. 

Is your N Charlotte Toyota using too much oil lately?

When it comes to car care, we can say without hesitation that oil changes are at the top of the must-do list. Motor oil keeps your engine cool and lubricated when your car is working hard to get you where you need to go. When you get too low on it, you can run all sorts of risks - not only can your car overheat, but you can also do irreparable damage to the engine that may not even be able to be fixed. 

Why would your car be using too much motor oil too quickly? 

That's why our Charlotte auto service center is always reminding you when you're due for an oil change and encouraging you to stick to a schedule. It's a lot easier (and more affordable!) to just get your routine oil changes done than to deal with the repercussions of skipping them. However, sometimes you might stick to a routine oil change schedule like clockwork but still find that your car is running out of (or getting low on) motor oil before it should (based on the mileage or calendar time). This means your car is using too much oil too quickly. 

How will you know if your car is using too much motor oil? Basically, depending on the type of oil you use, you should be able to go 3,000 - 5,000 miles in between changes. If your car needs oil sooner than that, then something is up. Here are some giveaway signs you need to visit Toyota of N Charlotte's auto service center: 

• Your oil light illuminates in the dashboard of your car. This indicates that the car is low on oil and you need to either schedule an oil change or add more, based on the quality of the existing oil. 
• You check the dipstick under the hood and discover that the oil is lower than it should be - the oil level should fall in between the two tic marks when you remove the dipstick from the engine. If it's lower than that, you need more oil. 
• You hear weird noises coming from the engine bay. Keep your ears open for rattling, grinding, and clanking noises coming from the engine, all of which can indicate a low oil level. 

If you notice any of the above signs, it's time to visit our Toyota Service Center in Charlotte. Excessive motor oil consumption can be caused by leaks, malfunctioning parts, and more - it can be tricky to pin down the reason, so it's best to let the experts take a look and fix it before the lack of motor oil causes more issues with your engine. 

Schedule auto service at Toyota of N Charlotte today

Whatever the issue, our Charlotte auto service techs can get to the bottom of it and get your ride running the way it should be (or you can trade in - just saying. We've got tons of new Toyotas to choose from.). Call us today to schedule your appointment! We're located at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville, and you can reach us at (704) 659-2025. 

Pickup truck terms you need to know before you buy or own one

 Are you thinking about buying a N Charlotte Toyota pickup truck, or trying to get comfortable with the idea of owning or maintaining one? Before you do any of the above, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of the terms commonly used to describe pickup trucks... and we're here to help. Check out this quick guide to pickup truck terminology from the experts at Toyota of N Charlotte. 

8 pickup truck terms you should know

Bed: The bed of your N Charlotte Toyota pickup truck is where you can haul and carry gear that's too big (or too dirty) to fit inside the cabin of the truck. Truck beds usually come in short (5'8"), standard (6'5"), and long (8') lengths. Be sure to choose the one best suited to your driving needs. 

Cab: The cab of your truck is short for cabin - the place where you and your passengers sit. Cabs also come in various sizes; typically, a regular cab is 2 doors, an extended cab has 2 full doors and 2 smaller doors for backseat access, and a crew cab is 4 full doors. 

Weight class: N Charlotte Toyota pickup trucks are usually classed according to their weight - you have half-ton, three-quarter-ton, and one-ton. Light-duty trucks are half-ton, middle-tier trucks are three-quarter-ton, and the heaviest class is one-ton. 

Payload: Payload refers to curb weight, or how much weight your truck can carry in the cab and bed. 

Towing capacity: While payload refers to how much weight you can carry in your pickup truck, towing capacity refers to how much weight you can safely pull behind it. This is usually determined by the engine size and how much horsepower and torque it provides. 

2WD, 4WD, AWD: These acronyms refer to drivetrain designation. 2WD means two wheels power the truck, 4WD means four wheels do, etc. Be sure to research which performance capabilities you need for your truck before you buy. 

Jackknife: This is something that happens when you're towing behind your N Charlotte Toyota and you back up, but the trailer and your truck end up getting stuck in a harsh acute angle. 

Fishtail: Another towing mishap here - this happens when you're towing in your pickup truck and what you're towing catches wind, causing it to sway back and forth on the road. It can cause an accident if you're not careful. 

Shop and care for your N Charlotte Toyota truck with us

Ready to shop for a N Charlotte Toyota pickup truck or need some maintenance to keep it in the best shape possible? Call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. You can reach us at (704) 875-9199!  

Avoid these 7 common car accidents

 Listen, we get it. Getting into a car accident is one way that can definitely ruin your day. It’s a headache dealing with insurance companies after an accident, as well as making sure you have your police report and the information from the other person (if needed). At Toyota of N Charlotte, we’re here to help you avoid a pesky car accident. Let’s dive in! 

• Rear-end collisions

Rear-end collisions are honestly the worst thing ever. What’s worse, is if there are multiple cars in the car accident. However, we have some Charlotte Toyota safety tips to avoid this! We suggest keeping your distance and stay at least three seconds away from the car in front of you. You can also practice Charlotte Toyota defensive driving. This will help you stay alert, and be sure to get enough sleep! 

• Parked car damage

Toyota of N Charlotte suggests trying to park in the back of a parking lot, park in the center of a parking spot, park in a garage, and park street-smart. Use these Charlotte Toyota safety tips and you should be safe from a car accident! 

• Car accidents from the elements

Before heading out for your Charlotte Toyota commute, be sure to check the weather and be prepared. You should also pay attention and not drive too fast. This should keep you safe! 

• Windshield damage

Also, try not to drive too close behind another car. If you drive too close, this could cause a rock to get lodged in your windshield. If this happens, then the integrity of your windshield is at risk. 

• Intersection crashes

Car accidents at an intersection are actually very common. If you’re a distracted driver and run a red light, you could smash right into someone. The best advice we have for you is to again practice defensive driving. 

• Vehicle theft 

Vehicle theft can be hard to prevent. If someone wants to get into your car, then they will get into it. But, you can prevent your precious items from being taken by always removing your valuables in your car and never park in a dark place. This is a recipe for disaster! 

• Braking collisions 

If you’re simply backing out of your driveway and not paying attention, you could have a car accident. Always check your Charlotte Toyota digital rearview mirror (or backup camera), and try to park in easy places to get out of. However, if you don’t have a backup camera, then you’ll need to check your surroundings, reverse in a straight line, back out slowly, and use your car mirrors before reversing. 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte 

If you need more safety tips to prevent a car accident, then come see us! Our expert auto service technicians can explain everything to you in more detail according to your specific car. You could also purchase a new car with the latest and greatest safety gear. Just book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road! 

7 must-have car accessories for tailgating

Summer is over and fall is here to stay. And, the best of it all is that football season is finally here! Get ready for some good food, fun times, and Charlotte Toyota car accessories for your special tailgate. Nothing is worse than getting to your tailgate and forgetting a key item to make it a memorable event. That’s why we’ve put together a list that will help you stay organized! Let’s dive in! 

Car accessories you must buy!

• Hitch

If you don’t have to tow that much stuff, then a hitch might not be necessary for you to purchase. However, if you need to bring some tables, chairs, and even a TV, then purchasing a hitch at our Charlotte Toyota auto parts store is a must! However, be sure to check how much weight your Toyota car can tow. If you tow too much, then you might end up needing to visit our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians. 

• Cargo carrier

Another great Charlotte Toyota car accessory is a cargo carrier! This will help keep all of your items organized, and help you remember everything to pack! Nothing is worse than forgetting your toothbrush when out for a weekend! 

• Speakers

Speakers are another great Charlotte Toyota car accessory to bring with you for your tailgate. Who doesn’t want to jam to some sweet tunes while enjoying a hot dog and a cold one? Plus, it’ll make you the life of the party! We suggest using Bluetooth speakers so you don’t have to worry about a pesky cord. 

• Cargo mats

Another must-have Charlotte Toyota car accessory you need are cargo mats. Luckily, you can purchase these at our auto parts store. These mats help protect your carpet from accidental spills. If a spill happens, you just take the cargo mat out and shake it. That’s all, folks! 

• Power inverter

Your tailgating kit isn’t complete without a power inverter! A Charlotte Toyota power inverter turns direct currents into alternating currents. You’ll be able to charge everything with ease! Just make sure to bring your Toyota car to our auto service technicians for an auto service to make sure your car battery is good to go! 

• Bed cover

Having a bed cover for the back of your truck will make things a little bit more comfortable for you. This is a must-buy for any Toyota truck owner! For extra comfort, just throw on some extra blankets for your tailgate! 

• Bungee cords

You can also purchase bungee cords at our auto parts store! This is one car accessory you don’t want to skip on! These little cords will hold everything together so that nothing comes flying off your car and create a car accident. 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte today!

Stop by today to check out our car accessories! We’ve got what you need! We’re located at 13429 Statesville Road! Just take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville! We look forward to helping you find the right accessories for your Toyota car! 

DIY Style: 7 tips to remove a dent from your car

Removing a dent from your Toyota car can be a troublesome task. It can leave you confused and want to run to the Charlotte Toyota auto repair shop ASAP! You should be able to spot a dent during your daily Charlotte Toyota car maintenance check, too. However, you can save a few bucks and a headache if you accomplish this task DIY style! All you need is a couple of tools and items listed below! Let’s dive in! 

Removing a dent doesn’t have to be hard!

Tip #1 Plunger time. 

Sometimes all you need to remove a dent from your car is a good ‘ol plunger. But, be sure to use a cup plunger and not a flange plunger. Also, it’ll work best if you wet the plunger before starting the removal process. 

 

Tip #2 Boiling water. 

Another method that works really well is to simply boil water and pour it over the dent. Toyota of N Charlotte recommends doing this because the warmed-up plastic should pop out. 

Tip #3 Dry ice. 

Using dry ice on your sweet ride can get dents out of your car or even a truck! Remember to apply the dry ice directly on the dent and wear Charlotte Toyota safety gloves before doing this task. 

Tip #4 Hair dryer.

Also, for all you ladies out there, a hair dryer works wonders for removing a dent. Just put the hair dryer to the hottest setting and blow away! The hot air will make the dent expand and the cold air will make it pop out! 

Tip #5 Hot glue, wooden dowels, and screws.

Another method that works is putting the screw in the wooden dowel. Then, you’ll want to use hot glue to glue everything in place. Now, you can use that elbow grease and start pulling. However, be careful not to pull too hard as you might chip the paint away. Of course, if this happens you can visit our Charlotte Toyota auto repair shop! 

Tip #6 Metal rod and knockdown. 

Another great method to remove a dent is to take a long metal rod and place a rubber knockdown on both sides of the dent and apply a lot of force to pop it out. Keep in mind this will be on the underside of the dent. So, this method is going to take a little bit more work. 

Tip #7 Tool kit. 

If all else fails, you can always purchase a tool kit from our Charlotte Toyota auto parts store. The will surely remove the dent for you. And, if the dent is still there, then our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians will make your Toyota car look brand new again. 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte today!

Stop by our dealership to talk auto parts with our expert auto service technicians. We’ll find the right materials for you! Just book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road! We look forward to seeing you! 

6 car care tips to maintain the value of your vehicle

 Preserving the life of your Toyota car can seem like a daunting task. After all, there are many Charlotte Toyota car maintenance items to check off your list. However, by doing some well-needed car care can extend the life of your car, which means fewer car payments for you! Toyota of N Charlotte is here with the best tips on how to keep your reliable Toyota car longer! 

1. Shop smart!

One of the best ways to get a great deal on a Toyota car is to research! The more you spend time researching, typically means the better deal you’ll get. You’ll want to look for a car that has all of the Charlotte Toyota auto services filed away in the glovebox. You’ll be able to see if the previous owner (or owners) have taken good car care methods. 

2. Pick your parking spot strategically. 

Another great Charlotte Toyota car care tip is to pick your parking spot strategically. The harsh sun can fade your once beautiful car paint. However, if you’re not able to park in the shade, then at least park in the back of a parking lot. This will lower your chances of someone dinging your door and causing you to have an auto repair. 

3. Drive less.

Of course, if you drive less then it’ll be better for your car. You’ll have less wear and tear on your car and will require fewer auto services. Not to mention, you’re helping preserve the environment! 

4. Protect your car from wear and tear.

The front end of your car tends to take a beating. Toyota of N Charlotte suggests purchasing a clear plastic guard. This will reduce rust and rock chip damage. Also, if you want even more protection, then buy a mudguard! This will take care of the grime that ends up on your paint for less than $100! Our expert auto service technicians can help you find this auto part for your car! 

5. Purchase backup tires.

Another great car care tip is to purchase an extra set of Charlotte Toyota car tires. We suggest purchasing some winter tires so that you don’t wear your all-purpose tires during the winter. This will give you more buffer time between when you need to purchase your next set of tires. 

6. Wash and wax regularly. 

Another car care tip that is overlooked is washing and waxing your car. Don’t skimp on the wax just to save a couple of bucks! Wash your car twice a week during the summer and only once a week during the winter. This will keep your car paint in pristine condition! 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte!

If you need help with more car care tips, then come talk with our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians! We can help you with car accessories you need or any auto repairs! Just book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road! We’re located off exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville! 

Tough car paint stains and how to remove them

 No one wants their car to look aged or dirty. When you pull up, you want to pull up in a ride that looks new and sparkling clean. However, it can be a challenge to maintain car paint to this level, especially as your car gets older. One easy way to start is to get stains off the paint, but we know some of them are tougher than others to remove. Check out these expert tips from Toyota of N Charlotte's techs and keep your car in mint condition! 

Four of the toughest car paint stains

#1: Dead bugs or bird poop. Practically everyone has faced the wrath of bird poop or bugs on their car paint and these stains aren't as easy as they look to remove. Typically, you can't just hit them with the hose and call it a day. Our solution for these tough stains? Mix up some white vinegar and warm water, dip a dryer sheet in it, and get to gently scrubbing. This should remove the dead bugs or bird poop pretty quickly. It's important to remove these stains immediately because they're acidic and can do damage to your N Charlotte Toyota's car paint over time. 

#2: Watermarks. Water, believe it or not, can leave stains on your car. Some water (like the water coming out of your hose) has quite a few minerals in it and if left to dry, will leave mineral deposits or watermarks all over your car paint. The solution? Dry your car thoroughly after you wash it, and then apply a coat or two of quality wax. The car wax will provide a barrier between your car and the elements, allowing water to bead up and slide off rather than sit and dry. 

#3: Fingerprints. You touch your car all the time without even realizing it, but as innocent as it is, you're still leaving oily fingerprints all over it. They're especially noticeable on darker-colored cars. The easiest way to get your car paint smudge-free is to take some warm water with mild soap and use a microfiber cloth to scrub them off. 

#4: Wet cement or paint. It's not common, but it happens. You could face wet cement driving through a construction site, and you may encounter wet paint at any time. Both are exceptionally difficult to get off of your car! Your best bet is to attack the stains right away - don't let them dry if you can help it. And when you go to clean, use an oil-based cleaner (like WD40). This along with some gentle but persistent scrubbing should take them off. Be sure to watch your car paint while you clean to ensure you're not scratching or wearing it down as you scrub. 

Get detailing supplies at Toyota of N Charlotte 

Have questions about car stains or need to shop supplies for removing them? Toyota of N Charlotte is always here to help. Call us! We're open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025 and we're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville at 13429 Statesville Road. 

Do you need your car tires balanced or aligned?

Having regular car maintenance on your Toyota car helps it last longer and prevents more costly auto repairs down the line. Your Charlotte Toyota car tires are just one of the auto services you need to help your car run smoothly. It can get confusing to keep up with what auto service you need next. Luckily, there are some telltale signs that you’ll be able to easily recognize when your car tires are about to go kaput on you! Let’s dive in! 

What is car tire balancing? 

Having your Charlotte Toyota car tires balanced is a fancy word for correcting the distribution of weight within your wheels on your car. If your wheels aren’t balanced, then this can lead to vibrations, tires wearing super fast, and damage to your suspension. Don’t fret though! There are some signs that you can watch out for. 

Signs that you need your tires balanced

• One of the biggest signs that you need your Charlotte Toyota car tires balanced, is if you experience vibrations in your steering wheel, floorboard, or your seat. 
• When performing your car maintenance check, go ahead and check the tread. If it’s uneven or worn too soon, then this is a big sign! 
• You can also determine which Charlotte Toyota car tire is the culprit by feeling which side is experiencing more vibrations. 

What is a wheel alignment? 

A wheel alignment is more about adjusting the Toyota car’s suspension rather than focusing on the car tires. This helps your car stay in the center and not veer too far from the road. You’ll need an alignment if you go over curbs or potholes frequently. Having this done regularly will save you some big bucks later! 

Signs that you need a wheel alignment

• If you experience your car pulling more to the left or right, then you’ll need to have this Charlotte Toyota auto service stat! 
• When the tire tread is wearing unevenly or super fast, then this is a telltale sign that you need to bring your car in right away!
• The tires squealing can be another sign. Don’t get this confused with your car brakes though! Our expert auto service technicians can determine where this sound is coming from.
• When the steering wheel tilts off-center, then this means a Charlotte Toyota wheel alignment is in your future. 
• The last sign is your steering wheel vibrating when you’re accelerating. This shouldn’t happen to your sweet whip! 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte! 

If you have any questions about your Charlotte Toyota tires, then come in and talk with your expert auto service technicians! We can look at your car and let you know if it’s time to have a wheel alignment or your tires balanced. Just book an appointment at (704) 659-2025! We’re open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road! Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville! We look forward to helping you out today! 

How to change your engine oil: DIY style

A staple in your Charlotte Toyota car maintenance is having your oil changed. If you’re unable to get your oil changed at Toyota of N Charlotte, then we have a simple 10-step DIY! Before you start, be sure to know what type of Charlotte Toyota engine oil you want to use. If you use a more expensive engine oil, then you’ll be able to wait longer between your oil changes. 

Tools you’ll need to change your engine oil

• Funnel
• Jack and jack stands
• Socket and wrench set
• Oil filter wrench
• Oil filter 
• Engine oil (of course)

Step #1 Prepare your Toyota car. 

Make sure you park on a level surface before you being to change your Charlotte Toyota oil. There’ll be less of a mess this way!

Step #2 Find the drain plug. 

Take a dive underneath your car and place your Charlotte Toyota engine oil container under the drain plug. 

Step #3 Loosen the drain plug. 

Take a ratcheting wrench and loosen the drain plug counterclockwise. It’s important not to remove it entirely from the oil pan, and don’t be alarmed if the Charlotte Toyota engine oil drips. This is completely normal! 

Step #4 Drain your engine oil. 

Now you can remove the drain plug! Just keep in mind that your oil is going to pour out super fast! It’s going to take a little bit, so grab yourself a drink and relax! 

Step #5 Change the oil filter. 

Now you can change your Charlotte Toyota oil filter. If your Toyota car has a screw-on oil filter, then remove the filter by twisting it off! You’ll also want to apply a suer light coat of oil to the O-ring! If your car uses a cartridge filter, then just remove the cap and take out the old filter and replace it with the new one! 

Step #6 Reinstall the drain plug. 

A drain plug will usually come with the oil filter you’re using. But, if it doesn’t, then you can call our auto service technicians!  

Step #7 Let the oil flow. 

Remove the cap in the engine and pour your new oil into your engine! 

Step #8 Check the oil level. 

Now that you have all of the oil in, you can check the level by using a dipstick. Just pull the dipstick out and wipe it clean. Then, pull it (again) and be sure that the color is golden and that it’s on the right level. 

Step #9 Put the filler cap on. 

Once you seal everything up you can start your car. Take a quick look and make sure there aren’t any oil leaks! 

Step #10 Clean your mess. 

Take the time to throw away anything and recycle things if you can! Go ahead and clean those tools you used, too! 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte 

If you have any questions or would prefer to come to our dealership for your auto service, just call our auto service technicians! Book an appointment at (704) 659-2025!