Blog

It’s been proven that accident rates are three times higher at night than during the day.  Many fail to realize the special precautions that can be takes to decrease many of the risks associated with driving at night. Toyota of Dothan wants to make sure that you are as safe as possible when navigating the nighttime roads. Lack of visibility is an obvious factor when driving at night.  This lack of visibility slows reaction time and requires more intent driver focus.  This, combined with the higher probability of encountering wildlife and drivers under the influence create a higher potentially for a hazardous situation.  Following some of these tips can help to reduce your risk. Check to make sure that all lights and signals are in proper working order. Routinely clean the inside of windshield to reduce glare from oncoming headlights and streetlights. Slow down and make sure you are not outdriving the beams of your headlights. Remain alert and aware of your surroundings.  Don’t forget to look for deer and other wildlife that may be just off the side of the road. Just as in rain or snow, make sure you keep adequate distance between your vehicle and others around you. Use your low beams if you are facing oncoming traffic or behind another vehicle. Focus your eyes on the right side of the road to avoid glare from oncoming traffic. Remain aware of your level of fatigue.  If you feel tired, it is always best to err on the side of caution and pull over.  There is nothing more dangerous than a tired driver or a driver that has fallen asleep behind the wheel.

With gas prices consistently on the rise, Toyota of Dothan has some helpful strategies to relieve some of the stress of this increased expense. Consider and analyze the habits and ways that you and your family members use your vehicles.  Analyzing your typical patterns and routines may help you to discover ways to lower the number of miles that you are putting on your vehicles.  Getting a notebook to accurately track your mileage is helpful in determining the impact these miles actually have on your overall budget.  A quick trip to the store or on an errand may not seem significant but the miles can certainly add up quickly.  Consider possible ways of carpooling or combining trips such as going to the bank at the same time as going to the grocery store to lessen the back and forth.  This analysis may make you realize that the gas increase doesn’t impact your budget as much as you had originally thought or it may make you aware of ways you could change some of your driving habits.  If you do discover that gas usage is dramatically affecting your financial status, don’t automatically assume you need a newer, more fuel efficient vehicle.  It may take longer financially to make up the difference if you choose to switch vehicles. Sometimes fuel savings can be made simply by changing your style of driving.  Calm driving has proven to be much more fuel efficient than aggressive driving.  Make sure to keep up with your regular car maintenance as this helps to ensure that your car is running at optimal performance levels of efficiency.  Steer clear of devices that claim to be “gas saving”.  Changing your style of driving is more likely to be the best alteration to make.  These devices rarely make a notable enough difference to offset the cost of the device. Take advantage of technology and use application or websites that track gas prices in your area.  These can be extremely helpful in ensuring you are getting the best possible deal in your area.  Don’t, however; drive miles out of your way to get to the station with the cheapest price.  You will be spending the money you would have saved in the mileage to drive there.

Becoming a senior citizen has its perks.  You get to retire, spend time with grandchildren, even receive discounts at places like the movies and restaurants.  Unfortunately again has its downside where your body can wear out.  This can affect all aspects of your life, including behind the wheel.  If you're a senior and would like to keep yourself sand others safe on the road, take these driving tips from Toyota of Dothan for seniors. Keep Yourself in Good Shape Staying active physically is a real advantage to seniors.  It will improve flexibility and strength, that helps with everyday action and those done while driving, like turning around to look over your shoulder or turning the steering wheel.  Good ways to stay in shape include walking, swimming, stretching and weight training.  Always check with your doctor first. Watch Your Meds Make sure any medications you are taking are safe for driving.  Many can cause drowsiness, dizziness and affect your vision.  Ask your doctor and read warning labels before driving while on medications.  Also be sure to keep up on any illnesses that are chronic and can have a negative affect behind the wheel.  If you have diabetes, low blood sugar can be a big problem. Keep Up on the Senses Keep up on getting your senses-eyes, ears- checked regularly by a doctor.  These things decline naturally with age, and are necessary for driving.  It could be disastrous if you don't hear oncoming vehicles, a train, or children, as well as se them in your line of vision.  If you feel unsure when driving, don't be too proud to ask for help or to turn in your license.

Are you ready for a new vehicle, but aren't ready to buy brand new?  People often get worried about buying a used car, but it's not a bad idea if you're not in the financial position to buy new.  If you're a customer with doubts, Toyota of Dothan is explaining the benefits of buying a used car. Less Depreciation With a Used Car Most of a car's depreciation happens in the first year or so.  With that mark being passed, the car will depreciate slower when you buy used.  You can still get a quality vehicle without losing a ton of value right away.  The warranty will usually transfer over to the used car too. Price of the Car A used car will be less expensive than its new model.  Of course, you are getting something that has been driven already and worn in. However, you can still find a high-quality vehicle that has been used and save the money that a new car would cost.  You should also be paying less for your registration, insurance and taxes on the vehicle. Thoroughly Inspected Cars When used vehicles arrive on the lot, they are taken god care of.  At least, if you visit a reputable dealer.  Once the cars get there, they are thoroughly inspected from bumper to bumper, and if there are any problems, including body or mechanical, they are taken care of.  Most of the time you can get a car with low mileage that is only a few years old, and has been certified as a quality used car.

Auto Insurance is one of those necessary evils.  Even if you don't have an accident, you still need to be insured.  Don't get stuck paying high premiums if you don't have to. Instead, take these tips from Toyota of Dothan on how to save money on auto insurance. Carpool to Save on Insurance Most insurance companies offer discounts when you have low mileage.  Therefore, it is smart to become part of a carpool of at least three people or more, who take turns driving a shift once a week.  Many insurance companies track mileage to determine costs. You can cut up to 75% off your miles and save money on insurance that way. Do Your Homework Make sure to factor your insurance cost into the overall cost of your automobile before you chose a car.  Don't assume a smaller compact car is going to be less than an SUV.  Companies factor many things into the price of your policy.  Some of these factors are average repair costs, price of the car, how often they are stolen, safety records and how much passengers have sustained injuries in crashes. Increase Your Deductible It's a bit of a risk, because if you get into an accident, you will be paying the higher deductible.  But if you are generally a safe driver, increasing your deductible will lower your monthly rate. Do your research first though.  If your car is over ten years old, the savings you get may not be that much.

If you're in the market for a pre-owned car with low mileage at a great price, we have just what you're looking for.  At Toyota of Dothan, we have the 2013 Scion xD with only 17,456 miles on it.  We're practically giving it away at the low price of $17,995. Exterior features of the Pre-Owned 2013 Scion xD This Scion xD comes in black.  The mirrors are power with LED turn signals built in.  IT gets a cool, chrome tipped exhaust and a color-keyed rear spoiler.  The rear windshield wiper makes visibility better on bad weather days, as well as the intermittent front windshield wipers.  Everyone will see you coming with multi-reflector halogen headlamps. Inside the 2013 Scion xD Both the driver and front passenger can spruce themselves up using vanity mirrors.  All the accessories are full power, with air-conditioning and cruise control.  The steering wheel is tilt-and-telescopic for easy adjustment.  Enjoy the 6-speaker sound system with unique Scion sound processing, satellite radio, CD, HD radio, Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity, and a USB/ iPod interface.  The antenna is conveniently mounted to the roof, and an auxiliary power outlet comes in handy when your batteries die.  Save space using the under-floor cargo storage in the Scion xD. Under the Hood of the 2103 Scion xD The Scion xD has a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that throws off 128 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque.  This model is equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. EPA estimated the Scion xD will get 29 miles per gallon combined city and highway driving.

The 2014 Highlander Limited from Toyota of Dothan has all of the latest high-tech features for your driving pleasure and safety.  Enjoy this equipment in comfort as the Highlander has plenty of room for up to 8 passengers.  Stop in and see how fabulous this SUV is! Technology in the 2014 Highlander Limited You'll immediately be safer with the backup camera that comes standard.  It will show you what's behind you and gives you guide lines. Navigation gets you to your destination via the most efficient route, lessening stress and confusion. The 8-inch touchscreen display houses the Entune system with HD radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, which plays through an amazing 12-speaker JBL sound system.  The Entune App suite allows you to do a number of things through your car including make reservations at a restaurant, buy movie tickets, get gas prices, check stocks, weather, traffic and sports. More standard Features in the Highlander Limited Additional high-tech features include: Four-way power passenger seat Blind spot monitoring system (with rear cross traffic alerts) 8-way power driver seat with memory functions, lumbar support, heat and ventilation 4.2-inch LCD Multi information display Smart Key system for rear liftgate and front doors Rear liftgate window defogger Automatic dimming rearview mirror 120V auxiliary outlet for the second row Driver easy speak voice amplification Digital clock Power tilt and slide moonroof with jam protection and sunshade Windshield wiper de-icer Integrated fog lights Tri-zone automatic climate control

Sometimes you really need a full-sized pickup truck to get the job done.  With all the choices out there, we want to make it easy for you.  Come in to Toyota of Dothan and test drive the powerful 2014 4WD Tundra double cab V8 and you'll discover just how powerful and reliable it is for all your heavy-duty needs. Power and Performance of the 2014 Tundra Double Cab SR5 V8 This Tundra is powered by an awesome 5.7-liter V8 engine that makes an awesome 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque.  The torque reaches its full potential with an Acoustic Control Induction System that also improves fuel efficiency with its single intake air control valve.A six-speed automatic transmission is standard.  Tow a massive 10,400 pounds when properly equipped.  The 4WD will get you through the toughest terrains easily.  Lessen the back pressure with tubular exhaust headers. Standard Exterior Equipment on the 2014 Tundra Double Cab SR5 The exterior gets tougher and stylish with a chrome rear bumper, and chrome grille surround. Additional features include: Foglights Deck rail Tailgate caps Heated black exterior mirrors 18-inch steel wheels Variable intermittent windshield wipers with de-icer Rear and front mudguards Inside the 2014 Tundra SR5 The SR5 has plenty to offer inside as well: Center console shifter 7-inch high-resolution touchscreen display HD and Satellite radio (90 day trial) 8-way adjustable driver seat Air conditioning 40/20/40 fabric trimmed fold down front bench seat 60/40 split rear fold up seats Cruise control Carpet floor

The 2014 Land Cruiser SUV is a beautiful, luxurious and capable vehicle available at Toyota of Dothan.  When the Land Cruiser drives down the road, it commands attention.  If you've never experienced one, come in a schedule a test drive today. Luxury in the 2104 Land Cruiser Comfortably fit eight passengers inside.  The front seats are ventilated, heat in multi-stages, and are trimmed in leather.  The second row also gets heat, which is a rare treat for those who sit back there.  The steering wheel gets its own leather and heat, with mounted controls for audio, Bluetooth, and the multi-informational display.  For long trips, enjoy the cooler box feature in the console, which is perfect for beverages and snacks.  The cabin has 28 vents throughout, and the climate can be controlled by front and second-row passengers. Passengers in the back get to enjoy their favorite flicks or play video games on the DVD system with a 9-inch color screen.  The Land Cruiser is available in seven sophisticated colors: Sonora Gold Pearl Magnetic Gray Metallic Blizzard Pearl Amazon Green Metallic Salsa Red Pearl Classic Silver Metallic Black Power and Performance of the 2014 Land Cruiser If you're tackling rough terrain, the Land Cruiser has plenty of ground clearance, and small rear and front overhangs so you won't make contact with the elements.  It comes with a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces a serious 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque.  Properly equipped it will tow a solid 8,500 pounds.

Pickup trucks are great for getting tough jobs done, but they can cost a lot of money in gas.  The 2014 Tacoma Double Cab V6 at Dothan Toyota is a hard working vehicle, while being fuel efficient at the same time.  Stop in and see how much this truck can do for you. Power of the 2014 Tacoma This 4.0-liter V6 engine gives extra power to the Tacoma than the 4-cylinder models. It makes 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque.  When properly equipped it will tow up to 6500 pounds with ease.  The Tacoma with a V6 is a low emission vehicle that comes with a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.  The drive is rear-wheel with a limited slip differential.  The Tacoma is a solid vehicle with one-piece frame rails and eight cross members and a sub-frame that is fully boxed.  Stop in an emergency with power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.  EPA estimates the Tacoma with a V6 gets 18 miles per gallon combined city and highway driving. Standard Features in the 2014 Tacoma Double Cab The Tacoma Double cab has a five foot bed length for your moving needs.  Comfortably fit adults in the backseat.  The front seats are fabric-trimmed bucket with 4-way adjustment for the driver with lumbar support, and 4-way adjustment for the front passenger.  More features include: Tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel Power locks and windows Power mirrors Air-conditioning Rear climate vents 4-speaker Entune audio system CD iPod/USB connectivity Black fenders 5 cup and bottle holders Rear bulkhead storage Dual sun visors Front passenger vanity mirror

The more comfortable and experienced you are behind the wheel of a car, the more likely you are to become overly relaxed and less attentive to the road.  This is a recipe for a disaster.  Almost 40,000 people die in car accidents each year and Toyota of Dothan wants to remind you about the following safe driving tips that can help you prevent car accidents: Each and every time you get into the car – put your seat belt on.  Seat belts keep you securely inside the vehicle in a car accident, which increases your likelihood of surviving.  People who are thrown from a vehicle rarely survive. Make sure your children are safely strapped into appropriate booster seats and car seats for their weight and age.  Children under the age of 12 should ride in the back of the car, as it is considered safest. Focus on driving – leave the cell phone in your pocket and don’t mess with the radio.  Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents. More than 1,000 people die per month in car accidents involving speed.  Watch and obey the speed limits, and drive slower to help prevent tragic car accidents. Have your brakes checked for signs of wear as your brakes are your first defense for avoiding potential car accidents.  If your brakes make noises or take longer to bring your car to a stop than they used to, have them serviced at your Enterprise Area Toyota service center. Periodically check to make sure your brake lights and turn signals are working.  This helps other drivers and pedestrians know what your intentions are.

If you're looking for an off road vehicle for your next adventure, take a look at the 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser! The 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser from Toyota of Dothan has a stylish and unique appearance, amazing off-road capabilities that make this a fun-to-drive experience for adventurous types. Come on in for a closer look and take the FJ Cruiser for a spin. Why the 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser is Good Off-Road You get a 4-wheel-drive and five speed automatic transmission with the 2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, ideal for off road situations.  It has a limited-slip differential which is good for getting through tough conditions like mud and steep hills. The SUV has 17-inch black-painted steel wheels and an elevated air tank for crossing water. The electrical components are protected so a little water shouldn’t be a problem – in fact, you can drive in up to 28 inches of water without a problem. 2013 FJ Cruiser Appearance You might get the impression of a military vehicle when you first look at this SUV.  It’s a little like a truck ready to go to war or head cross country over a desert terrain. Its long and rounded roof covers 32-inch tires that stand out.  There are six colors with contrasting colors to choose from: Quicksand with White roof Black with White roof Calvary Blue with White roof Magma with White roof Army Green with White roof Iceberg White with White roof