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! 

Do you know how to choose your next auto mechanic?

If you're in the market for a new auto mechanic, we know one (insert wink here). However, if you're truly on the hunt for your next car care tech and don't know where to start, we can help. Check out these expert tips on finding the right mechanic from our Charlotte car care techs. 

4 tips for choosing an auto mechanic

Tip #1: Ask the people you know. Why not ask your friends, family, or work colleagues who they use for their auto mechanic needs? They might have a great recommendation for you or they might even be a mechanic themselves. If they trust their tech to work on their car, chances are that you will, too. Get personal recommendations to at least narrow the field. 

Tip #2: Put Google to work. Why not put your internet browser to work to help you in your search? Look up shops in your area and dive into their internet presence. Do they have reviews up anywhere? What about customer testimonials? Also, check out their website so you can see what services they offer and if their auto mechanics have any certifications. You can also check their hours to ensure they're convenient to your schedule, as well as see if they offer any perks like service specials, a shuttle to get you where you need to go, or assistance with a rental car. (We offer all of those things at Toyota of N Charlotte, just saying.) 

Tip #3: Find a shop that's specific to the make of your car. An easy way to weed through the competition is to look for an auto mechanic shop that's specific to the make of your car. For example, if you choose to get service and repairs at Toyota of N Charlotte you can rest assured that our techs know the ins and outs of your Toyota and are certified in its care. Plus, we use Genuine Toyota parts on your ride to keep it a Toyota and give you the dependability you need. 

Tip #4: Just go for it. If you're not the type to research, just go for it. Look for either an auto mechanic near your house or a brand name that you're familiar with and get to the shop. Start small, though - have them tackle something easy like an oil change or a tire rotation first. This will let you see their process, how they are about communicating, their pricing, and whether or not you're comfortable working with them. 

Schedule an appointment with Toyota of N Charlotte's auto mechanics today

Need auto service or repairs now? Call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025. We're conveniently located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. 

5 steps to take if your car overheats

Having your car overheat is one of the worst feelings! When you’re driving along during your commute to work and your Toyota car goes kaput! It can seem like a huge headache and you might feel like an unexpected and expensive auto repair or Charlotte Toyota auto service is needed. However, there are some signs to spot before your car is badly damaged. And, Toyota of N Charlotte is here to break those down for you! Let’s dive in! 

Signs to watch out for!

• If you smell an odd smell coming from under the hood, then this is a huge telltale sign that something is about to go down! If you need more car coolant or have a leak, then you’ll smell something sweet. However, if there’s an oil leak, then it’ll smell like something is burning. 
• If you notice the Charlotte Toyota temperature gauge going in the “H” section or to the red area, then this is a huge red flag! 
• Also, if your see smoke coming from the hood, then this should ring alarm bells in your head! 

Steps to take if your car overheats

Step #1 Turn the heater on. 

When your car overheats, turning the heater on might seem like the exact opposite thing you should do. However, this helps redirect some of the hot air from the Charlotte Toyota engine and put it in the cabin. If the warning light turns off or if the temperature gauge goes back to the middle, then you’re in the clear. 

Step #2 Pull over. 

If you’re driving and notice that the smoke is getting worse or isn’t getting any better, then Toyota of N Charlotte suggests pulling over. Now is the best time to call some roadside assistance if you need it. 

Step #3 Be calm. 

Another step to take if your car overheats is to just try to stay calm. This would be a good time to wait 15 minutes before opening your hood. If you don’t wait long enough, then the hot steam can blast your face. Our auto service technicians can also do this for you if you don’t want to. 

Step #4 Add coolant. 

Once you’ve waited 15 minutes, you can put some gloves on and grab a towel to remove the cap on the coolant fluid. Your car may be smoking because of a lack of Charlotte Toyota car coolant. 

Step #5 Go to a gas station 

If all else fails and your car overheats still, then if you can drive to the gas station or Toyota of N Charlotte! Our auto service technicians can help get your car working again! 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte if your car overheats!

If your car overheats and you need some advice, then come talk to your auto service technicians! We can help get your car back in working order today! Just book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road! Just take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville!

Do you know how to shop for new car tires?

 We'll just be upfront about it - no one likes buying new car tires. NO ONE. (Well, maybe there's like a handful of people out there who get excited about it, but for the most part... no one.) Car tires are expensive, and on top of that, you have to pay someone MORE to install them on your ride. Plus, it can be a daunting task if you don't know your way around it. As always, our Charlotte Toyota service center is here to help. Check out these tips for shopping for new car tires like a pro. 

Tip #1: Make sure you actually need them. Do you actually need new car tires? It's pretty easy to check (and if you're still not sure, have one of our Charlotte auto service techs do it for you). Here are some signs you're due for a new set of shoes for your car: 

• They're over the age of five years. Tires start to degrade pretty seriously after this amount of time, so it's best to start shopping 
• The tread is low. Do the penny test - stick a penny in the tread of your car tires with Abe's head down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low (and putting you at risk of losing traction and getting into an accident) and it's time to replace them. 
• You see obvious damage. If you see issues like sidewall separation, blisters, bulges, etc. then you're due for a new set. 

Tip #2: Know what you're shopping for. Before you start the process of shopping for new car tires, make sure you know what you're looking for. Tires are not one-size-fits-all (unfortunately). You should know what type of tires you need (winter, all-season, performance, etc.) as well as the actual measurements. Here's the breakdown. 

Your tire measurements will read something like this: 255/35R18

• The "255" stands for the width of the tires in millimeters
• The "35" stands for the aspect ration (height to width)
• The "R" stands for radial
• The "18" stands for the wheel diameter in inches 

Make sure the measurements match up or else the tires won't work for your N Charlotte Toyota. 

Tip #3: Decide where to purchase. Where will you buy your tires? You've got lots of options, including: 

• Online. You can definitely buy car tires online - you'll have lots of options and they can likely be shipped right to you fairly quickly. However, you'll still have to find and pay someone to install them for you. 
• At a tire specialty store. You can also shop at a car tire specialty store where a specialist can help you wade through the options and find the right ones. However, the price of installation tends to be bundled in and the cost of both parts and labor are usual pricier. 
• At a dealership. If you usually service at your local dealership (like at our Charlotte Toyota service center), you can get your new car tires there, too. They'll be able to find you the perfect fit and install them. However, if your car is a different make than the dealership, they might not be able to help so be sure to call ahead. 

Need new car tires? We've got you covered. Call Toyota of N Charlotte at (704) 659-2025 today. 

Download these Toyota apps for the best drive time yet

 Are you the type of driver who likes to have connectivity, safety, entertainment, and efficiency within your reach when you're behind the wheel? Get ready to have it at the tips of your fingers - Toyota's new suite of apps is here and with it bringing the tools you need to have the best drive time ever. Toyota of N Charlotte is here to explain what's up for grabs and why you should download it today! 

Which new Toyota apps should you have on your phone? 

Toyota Remote Connect: This new Toyota app is all about ease and efficiency when it comes to your drivetime experience. It links your N Charlotte Toyota to your phone so you can utilize features like remotely locking and unlocking your car, as well as starting it remotely (which means you can also get the cabin comfortable if it's hot or cold out). Additionally, this new Toyota app allows you to find your vehicle via GPS and get fuel alerts when you're getting low. And the coolest thing yet - you can actually set "guest profiles" for your N Charlotte Toyota when someone else drives it, and you can assign mileage and speed limits, which is great for new teen drivers. 

Not only that, if you drive a N Charlotte Toyota hybrid plug-in or fuel cell vehicle, this new Toyota app can control your car's climate settings, help you monitor your charge, and find fueling stations with ease so you can get back out on the road.  

Toyota Service Connect: Toyota Service Connect makes the maintenance part of car ownership easier than ever. With this new Toyota app, you'll be sent reminders when you're due for routine auto service; it also links to your car so when you have a dashboard light come on, it can let you know what's going on AND alert your Toyota Service Center so they're prepared when you bring your car in to be checked. Toyota Service Connect can also give you health reports on your vehicle so you know just how well it's running. 

Joya Virtual Driving Assistant: Ever wished your owner's manual could just give you the answer you're looking for without you having to search? Enter Joya, a new Toyota feature that was first rolled out on the 2021 Toyota Sienna. Think of it as an owner's manual in the form of AI - it can tell you anything and everything you want to know about your car. This feature is accessed through the Toyota app and powered by Google AI. 

And even bigger news - another new Toyota app feature is headed your way. Mobile collision assistance will soon be introduced to walk you through the aftermath of a car accident. This feature will help you document everything, as well as walk you through the process of insurance and repairs and keep you updated the entire time. 

Learn more about new Toyota tech at Toyota of N Charlotte 

What are you waiting for? Download these apps today OR get on board and shop our new Toyotas. Toyota of N Charlotte is open seven days a week at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville. Call ahead at (704) 875-9199! 

6 signs you need a new car alternator

Your Charlotte Toyota car alternator is something that tends to be forgotten about. However, it’s a powerful source of power that turns mechanical energy into electrical energy. While you’re driving it charges your car battery and keeps it going around. If your lights are beginning to not work as they once did, then you might be on the market for a new car alternator! This is why having regular car maintenance is important! Our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians can make sure that your alternator is in good shape so you don’t break down on the side of the road or get into a car accident! 

Let’s dive into car alternators!

#1 Your lights are dim. 

One telltale sign that your Charlotte Toyota car alternator is going out is that your headlights and the lights inside the cabin will begin to flicker or fade. You may think you’ve entered a horror film, but it’s just that pesky alternator. No worries, ya’ll! This just means that it’s time for a new alternator. 

#2 Flashing warning light on your dashboard. 

At Toyota of N Charlotte, we know your car’s health is your top priority. That’s why your Toyota car has handy dandy sensors that illuminate a light on your dashboard. Just lookout for a light that says “ALT” or GEN.” However, if your Charlotte Toyota car alternator light starts turning off and on randomly, then you might have a problem! You should take your car to our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians ASAP! 

#3 Car battery joins the other side. 

One of the most obvious signs of a bad car alternator is if your car battery dies before its expected expiration time. A bad alternator can drain your car battery and burn a hole in your pocket. So, it’s best to bring your car to our dealership to get it fixed up! 

#4 Odd odors. 

Another sign of a car alternator on its last leg is if you start to smell a funky odor. Particularly, something that smells like burning rubber. However, funky odors can be a plethora of different things. That’s why you should bring your car to our auto service technicians to diagnose. 

#5 Funky sounds. 

If you hear some odd sounds while driving, then this is a telltale sign to get the noise checked out under the hood. It could be your alternator or it could be something not so serious. 

#6 Electrical failures. 

Also, if your power windows, power locks, dashboard lights, air conditioning, or your radio starts acting weird, then this is a huge sign that your alternator is going bad. 

Visit Toyota of N Charlotte today!

Toyota of N Charlotte can provide the best auto services on your car. Our expert auto service technicians can diagnose the most complicated issues! Just book an appointment at (704) 659-2025. Come see us at 13429 Statesville Road! Take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville! We look forward to fixing your car today! 

Back to school road hazards to watch out for this year

 Back to school is coming, which means your daily drive time is about to go through a big adjustment. More traffic and road hazards crop up when students head back to school in the fall semester and our N Charlotte Toyota dealership is here to help you meet them head-on. Check out our tips for avoiding road hazards this fall until you've adjusted to back to school.

Avoid these road hazards during back to school 

Road hazard #1: More traffic. Back to school means more traffic on Charlotte roads. Between elementary, middle, high school, and college campuses, there are bound to be quite a few more people on the road. That means you need to be prepared for delays and the possibility that it could take you a little longer to get where you're going. We recommend giving yourself an extra 10-15 minutes every day to get where you're going so you aren't tempted to speed or drive aggressively. 

Road hazard #2: More pedestrians. Back to school also means that there will be more pedestrians out and about walking to school and bus stops. You should be on high alert, especially since kids sometimes don't follow the rules of the road. Keep your eyes on the road at all times and be ready to react quickly should you need to come to a stop quickly and suddenly. 

Road hazard #3: More bicycles. Kids won't just be on foot; they'll also be on bicycles. Remember to give them plenty of space when you're passing them and also be sure to check before you turn right or left to make sure one isn't passing you. And always yield to them! 

Road hazard #4: School buses. Driving around school buses is a whole new ball game. Remember, if they turn on their flashing lights and the stop signs swing out, you need to bring your N Charlotte Toyota to a stop. This is true even if you're on the opposite side of the road unless you're on a divided highway with a wide median. Never pass a stopped school bus, and be sure to give them plenty of distance if you're behind them. 

Road hazard #5: School zones. School zones have different rules when it comes to driving. You'll likely be at a much lower speed and need to come to a stop at one point or another to let students cross. Plus, you'll have to watch out for pedestrians, bikes, and school buses on top of it all when driving in school zones. Be sure to abide by the speed limit, be on high alert (no distracted driving), and obey crossing guards and police officers who are directing traffic and pedestrians. 

Find a safe new Toyota at Toyota of N Charlotte 

Have questions or need to get back to school in a safe new Toyota? Visit Toyota of N Charlotte. We're located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville at 13429 Statesville Road. Call us to schedule a test drive of one of our N Charlotte Toyotas at (704) 875-9199 today! 

What happens during your car brake service?

Having your Charlotte Toyota car brakes serviced is a necessary auto service that has to be completed regularly. It can be a service that is easily forgotten, but you can ask for them to be inspected during your routine oil changes. However, if you do miss this your car brake service, then it could lead to a more costly fix down the line. It can also become confusing because you can’t physically see what is wrong with your car brakes. That’s why Toyota of N Charlotte is here with a detailed explanation of what goes on behind the scenes. 

And, car brakes… action! 

#1 Inspect the rotors and brake pads.
The first thing that our Charlotte Toyota auto service technicians will do is inspect your rotors and brake pads. We’ll check the wear and tear of your car brakes and see what condition they’re in exactly. With time, your brake pads will wear down from constantly pressing down on the brake. After these are inspected, our auto service technicians will let you know what’s going on with those pesky car brakes. 

#2 Flush the brake fluid. 
Did you know that you need brake fluid in your Charlotte Toyota brakes? This fluid helps you come to a complete stop and not get into a car accident during your commute. Flushing your car brakes helps rust not build up in the lines. Plus, we all know rust can make your auto parts to start sticking and not turning as easily as they once did. You’ll need to flush the brake fluid every couple of years or if there’s a leak on the run. 

#3 Bleed the brake line. 
Bleeding the brake line sounds funky, right? Well, it’s a necessary step in preserving your brakes. Oxygen and moisture can get trapped in your Charlotte Toyota brake line, and could eventually leave your car not being able to stop. This is a recipe for disaster on the road or a dreaded car accident! You’ll need to have this Charlotte Toyota auto service every 2-3 years!

#4 Replace or upgrade auto parts. 
During your Charlotte Toyota brake service, you might be due for a replacement or an upgraded auto part. If you upgrade your auto parts, it allows your brakes to last longer and to have the latest and greatest! Also, we can replace your car rotors! If you wear your brakes down to the rotors, then it can be super costly to fix! Luckily, there are some strange sounds that you’ll hear before this happens. And, we’re always here for you if you need help diagnosing a funky sound. 

Come down to Toyota of N Charlotte

If you need to schedule a brake service, then come see us at our dealership! Book an appointment at 13429 Statesville Road today! Just take exit 23 off I-77 in Huntersville! We’re open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025! We look forward to seeing you and getting your brakes working again! 

How to handle car insurance after you've gotten into a car accident

 So you got into a car accident. Our sympathy goes out to you, first of all - car accidents are extremely stressful. And chances are that even if you and your passengers are totally OK and free from injury, your car is likely not. This means you'll have to contact car insurance, file a claim, and go through them for repairs. This adds another layer of (unavoidable) stress to the entire situation, and that's why we sat down with our Charlotte Toyota body shop to get you the tips to make it through stress-free. 

Five tips for dealing with insurance after a car accident 

Tip #1: Gather ALL info at the scene of the car accident. 

Make sure you get all of the info you need at the scene of the car accident so you can quickly and easily file your insurance claim. You'll need the other driver's name, contact info, vehicle info (like make, model, year, and plate number) as well as their insurance information. It's also a good idea to get names and contact info of any witnesses, as well as a copy of the accident report from the police officers that come to the scene. 

Tip #2: File a claim with insurance as soon as you can. 

Keep in mind that there's a limit to how long after a car accident you can file an insurance claim, so you should get it handled right away. If you were at fault for the accident, you'll file with your insurance. If the other driver was at fault, you file with their insurance (you shouldn't have to pay for anything). 

Tip #3: Find a repair shop. 

The next step in the process should be to find an auto repair shop. You need to find one that a) you're comfortable with and b) will work with the insurance company you're using. To ensure you've got the right body shop, make sure to ask questions like if they can get the repairs done in a timely manner and what types of parts they'll use. For example, here at Toyota of N Charlotte, we use genuine Toyota parts on your Toyota instead of aftermarket parts to ensure the highest quality and best performance. 

Tip #4: Get an estimate scheduled. 

Most repair shops won't even start on your car repairs after a car accident until the insurance company has done their estimate. Insurance companies like to send adjustors out to examine the damage and get a ballpark idea of how much it's going to be to fix it. Set this up with the insurance company before you try to get repairs and a rental car scheduled. 

Tip #5: Ask lots of questions. 

Before you schedule repairs, ask your insurance company AND the auto repair shop lots of questions. How much is your deductible? Will insurance cover a rental car? When will your car be done? Does the body shop you chose have your insurance information and your contact information? How often will you be contacted about the state of repairs? Don't be afraid to ask too many questions - the more information you have, the better. 

Schedule your auto body repairs at Toyota of N Charlotte 

If you need auto repairs after a car accident, you're in good hands - visit Toyota of N Charlotte today! Our Toyota Collison Center is located just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.