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If you're a parent, the day is going to come, whether you like it or not. That child is going to turn 16 and start asking for a car. There are some things your Toyota of Dothan wants parents to consider when buying a teenagers first car. Decide Who is Buying the Car Are you, the parent, buying the car? Will the teen buy the car? Is it a shared effort? Most financial experts agree that the teenager should have at least some investment into the vehicle. Ownership, at a price, breeds responsibility. Make that decision before you start the conversation with your son or daughter, however. Your portion, if any, is YOUR decision. Safe, Not Sporty Your new driver is probably going to want something sporty-- and fast. You probably prefer to put them in your parent's car. The best option is probably somewhere in the middle. A mid-size sedan will typically get decent gas mileage and will be solid and safe. Engine Size Think four cylinders here. There is enough power to do everything that needs to be done- get from point A to point B safely- and not enough power to be a temptation. No matter how responsible your child is, a big powerful engine is a big no-no! Consequences Right From the Start Set the rules. Let them know what type of behavior is NOT allowed. For example, don't put on makeup while you're driving. Don't eat while you’re behind the wheel. Keep the music at a decent volumes- and save the earbuds for later. Above all, no drinking and driving. Let them know you will always come and pick them up if they are impaired. Most importantly, determine the consequences for breaking the rules before the rules are broken-- and stick to it!   This is just the beginning of the considerations before your teen buys their first car. It's a big step- help them make it a wise one.

Frequent oil changes are the bane of many drivers. The cost, the time, the remembering, all add up to a general dislike of how often cars need the oil changed. Toyota of Dothan has a word for drivers who wonder if synthetic oil is worth the extra cost over petroleum based oil.   The oil in your engine provides several functions. It protects the engine from heat, it reduces friction and it keeps the engine clean and corrosion-free. It is probably the most necessary fluid in the engine. The problem is standard petroleum based oil breaks down easily and needs to be replaced every few thousand miles. Synthetic Oil Has Advantages Synthetic oil offers several advantages over regular oil. It tolerates heat much better and doesn't break down like petroleum oil. It lasts much longer, extending the time between oil changes to twice as long- or more- than petroleum oil. The smaller number of oil changes helps discount the higher cost of synthetic oil.   Synthetic oil also tolerates cold weather better than petroleum, which can make a real difference to Alabama Toyota drivers traveling north. Regular oil will thicken in cold temperatures. Synthetic oil doesn't have that problem. This feature alone can make synthetic oil the best choice for your vehicle in winter months.   Because of the powerful friction reduction provided by synthetic oil, your engine parts can last longer than they will with petroleum oils. Your oil won't build up with sludge and dirt that can potentially harm your engine. You can expect longer engine life, with fewer problems when you choose synthetic oil.

It used to be common maintenance to get a regular tune-up for your vehicle. It's harder to know if your new vehicle needs to be brought in for a common tune-up though, isn't it? If you have a Toyota, these are the things to get checked out on a regular basis.   With electronic ignitions, your wheels don't have the same issues they used to. But there are a few things to keep an eye on. Sure, you don't have to putz with the carburetor like you used to, but that doesn't mean your vehicle is maintenance free. Computer Diagnostics Tell the Tale Late model Toyotas have a computer that runs a constant diagnostic test on your vehicle. When something goes awry, a light shows up on the dash and you know it’s time to take it in. The frustration, however, is many cars have a general Engine Needs Service light and the problem can be anything from transmission trouble to a sensor fail. Spark Plugs Still Need Spark With all the advances in car engines, spark plugs still need to work properly and they do need to be replaced. Your battery is probably sealed, but it needs to be checked for power loss. Other mechanical pieces will fail and need replacement as well.   You may be able to go as long as 100,000 miles without a tune up. Check your owner’s manual to see what is recommended for your model. Even though you need to go less often, it doesn't mean you never go at all.

Look no further! Take it from your Toyota of Dothan, you want to see the Venza- a midwifed SUV that keeps it stylish, while offering the versatility of an SUV. You’ll look twice at the new features and be plenty happy about how she looks headed down the road. Style, perks, cargo space- the 2015 Toyota Venza covers all the bases. Safety First! Toyota of Dothan Knows What You Need! Toyota is known for their Star Safety System- and it comes on every new Toyota you buy! From the traction control to the brake assist, Smart Stop technology and more, you’re safety is important to us.   Six different safety systems come standard on your new Venza- which will give you peace of mind as you’re hauling your most precious cargo to school. More safety features include a rearview camera, blind spot mirror and first- and second-row curtain airbags to make sure every move you make is a safe one. But We LOVE the Options! You’ll love the options like heated mirrors, leather seats with memory and heat, as well as a leather steering wheel with audio controls, keyless entry and a navigation system as well. Just because you’re driving an SUV doesn’t mean you need to forfeit luxury. The exterior looks sharp as well, with the 19” Alloy wheels and automatic headlights that dim on their own when a car approaches 1000 feet, as well as daytime running lights.

One of the top-recommended mini vans from Edmunds is the 2015 Toyota Sienna. Toyota of Dothan  has this van in the five-door, eight passenger LE FWD model ready for you to drive home today. This year’s model has an updated, family friendly interior that you’re whole family will love.   One of the most frustrating parts of driving a van full of kids is trying to be heard over all the noise. Well, perhaps the new Sienna was designed by a soccer mom, because the Easy Speak feature uses a built-in microphone to send your voice through the speakers in the back of the van. No more hollering to be heard- just speak in your normal voice and even the teenagers will hear you. The Sienna Changes are Inside! The exterior of the new Sienna looks just like last year’s model, but open the door and take a look inside to see the upgrades.  The interior has been upgraded with higher quality materials, which makes a world of difference to the feel of the cabin.  One of the most appreciated changes is the movement of the control knobs for the climate control and the entertainment system. They are now conveniently located in a cluster some three inches closer to the driver. The dash is now padded and the wood trim looks like, well, like wood, not cheap plastic. The interior has some other changes as well. The Entune entertainment system is much more user friendly, including the ability to swipe the screen, much like your phone

We know as your family grows, you need a vehicle that grows with you. You want something that fits your family, but you're not ready to move into the mini van world. Check out the Toyota Highlander, the AWD vehicle that can take you where you want to go! It looks great headed down the highway and can go off-road at the flip of a switch. The Toyota Highlander is at Toyota of Dothan, waiting for a test drive. This is NO Mini Van The 2015 Highlander seats up to eight, but this is no mini van! With a sleek car-like look, you're styling, even when you haul the kids to soccer practice. Choose between a 4-cylinder, V6 or a hybrid engine for the power and fuel economy you need. With three seats, and the ability to tow up to 5000 pounds, you can haul whoever and whatever you need to. The V6 engine is the preferred choice, giving basically the same fuel economy as the 4 cylinder, with a lot more power, as well as the option for all wheel drive. Here's Your Highlander Perks If you're looking for perks, look no further. The Highlander has options including 2 nd row heated captains seats, if you don't need the 3 rd row option. You'll love the lane departure warning system, panoramic moon roof and Driver's Easy Speak, which amplifies the driver's speaking voice to be heard better throughout the vehicle.   The 2015 Toyota Highlander is a step above the mini van! Who says you have to sacrifice style for space?

You can be one of the first owners of the brand new 2015 Toyota 4Runner.  The much-anticipated SUV offers everything you could possibly want in an SUV: entertainment features, power, 4-wheel drive, space, and superior safety.  Check out the new 2015 Toyota 4Runner at Toyota of Dothan.  Pricing for the 2015 Toyota 4Runner Limited 4WD on the lot is below $46,000. Power and Performance Specs Power in the 2015 Toyota 4Runner comes from a 4.0-liter V6 with a 6-speed automatic and a 4-wheel drive drivetrain.  The Toyota 4Runner produces 270 hp at 5600 RPM; 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 RPM; 17/21 mpg; and 4700 lbs. of towing capacity.  The maximum payload capacity is 1495 lbs. Interior Features The 2015 Toyota 4Runner Limited has seating for five passengers.  The total cargo capacity when all the seats are in place is 46.3 cubic feet.  Interior features in the SUV include dual-zone automatic climate controls, a multi-information display on the dash, leather-trimmed seats, heated driver seat with memory settings, cruise control, and push button stars, power liftgate, and a backup camera.  The 4Runner is also loaded with an Entune™ entertainment system that consists of JBL® speakers, a subwoofer, navigation, Bluetooth®, iPod connectivity, USB ports, HD radio, voice recognition, weather, and satellite radio. Safety Review Toyota equipped the 2015 Toyota 4Runner with the Star Safety System™, an airbag system, knee airbags, 3-point seatbelts, Safety Connect®, hill start assist, and parking aids.  According to the NHTSA, the 4Runner SUV earned four stars for safety.

Your brakes are a critical component on your vehicle, so they should be one of the top priorities on your list.  Brake issues can be identified visually, by the sound they make, and what you feel when you are driving or stopping. Your owner’s manual will tell you when your brakes should be serviced, but you may be wearing them out sooner than expected.  Toyota of Dothan wonders if you are reducing your brake life. What Causes Brakes to Wear Out? Your vehicle’s brakes are not designed to last forever, but you can usually get 30,000 to 70,000 miles out of your brake pads.  Rotors will last much longer.  Your driving habits may reduce the lifespan.  Common brake-life killers include: Aggressive driving and speeding Last minute stopping Overloading the vehicle Riding the brake pedal when you are driving or going down a hill Failing to have the brakes inspected when recommended by the manufacturer Constantly on and off the brakes when you are traveling Installed cheap brakes How Can I Tell if it is Time for New Brakes? Your Toyota will tell you when the time is getting close for a brake job.  Common symptoms include: Squealing when you stop The car pulls to one side when you are stopping The pedal is spongy The brake pedal or the steering wheel shakes when you are stopping You keep having to replace the brake fluid You observe strange smells or noises coming from the brakes Your braking reaction time is reduced

Gaining a couple extra miles per gallon can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over five years in fuel costs.  Choosing the right car now can prove to be a money-saving investment for many more years to come.  Not only are Toyotas affordably priced, but they have awesome fuel economy ratings as well.  Get 30+ MPG HWY with Toyota of Dothan. 2014 Toyota Avalon XLE Premium The 2014 Toyota Avalon XLE Premium can save you money in many different ways.  According to the experts at Kelley Blue Book, the Avalon has the highest resale value in its class, which earned the sedan an award in the Full-Size Car segment.  The three-year resale value is 55.0% and the five-year is 41.8%. The Toyota Avalon will also save you cash at the pump.  The estimated fuel economy rating is 21/31 mpg, which has the potential to save consumers over $750 in fuel costs over a 5-year span. 2014 Toyota Camry The 2014 Toyota Camry is available with either a 2.5-liter inline-4 or a 3.5-liter V6. According to the EPA, the inline-4 Camry averages 25/35 mpg, which can save consumers $1750 over five years.  The 2014 Camry with a V6 averages 21/31 mpg, saving drivers $750 over 5 years. 2014 Toyota RAV4 Yes, an SUV made the cut.  A 2.5-liter inline-4 engine powers the 2014 Toyota RAV4.  The EPA reports that the 2014 Toyota RAV4 with a front-wheel drive transmission averages 24/31 mpg.  The total savings over five years compared the cost of the average new car is $1,250.

You may have heard the term ‘blown head gasket,’ but what does it mean?  Is your car at risk for an explosion?   No, but they are a big and expensive issue. Technicians at Toyota of Dothan explain head gasket fails. What is a Head Gasket? When you look at head gasket, it appears to be rather minor, but it plays a critical role in the health and operation of your vehicle.  A head gasket fits between the cylinder head and the engine block; its jobs include forming a seal in the combustion chamber and preventing oil and coolant from mixing.  The head gasket has to be strong enough to seal at varying engine temperatures. Why do Head Gaskets Fail? A number of factors may contribute to head gasket failure: The number one reason for head gasket failure is overheating Pre-ignition or detonation Faulty or cracked OEM head gasket Installation error Existing gasket is old and worn out What are the Symptoms of a Blown Head Gasket? You will not be able to see if the head gasket is damaged just by looking at it.  Inspecting the head gasket requires removing the cylinder head.  The gasket itself does not cost much, but the repair is expensive.  The technician also has to evaluate the underlying issues that may have contributed to the failure.  The following issues may be the sign of a gasket issue: Coolant leaks below the exhaust manifold Engine continues to overheat The oil is white and milky The vehicle loses oil, but there are no signs of a leak Radiator has bubbles Overflow tank has bubbles Do not attempt to replace your head gasket on your own; it is not a do-it-yourself task for newbies.

You can save thousands off MSRP on a 2014 Toyota Sienna.  The Sienna is one of America’s favorite minivans, and it can be yours for less than you think.  The 2014 Toyota Sienna is loaded with family features, superior seating, and state-of-the-art safety technology.  Save thousands on a pre-owned 2014 Toyota Sienna from Toyota of Dothan. Pricing and Resale Pricing for the pre-owned 2014 Toyota Sienna minivans on the lot is set below $30,000.  In 2014, Kelley Blue Book awarded the Sienna with a 2014 Best Resale Value Award. The pre-owned minivans on the lot are CARFAX 1-owner models, each one has fewer than 30,000 miles on the engine, and they are Toyota Certified. Snapshot of Performance Specs Toyota armed the 8-passenger minivan with a 3.5-liter V6 that creates 266 hp at 6200 RPM and 245 lb.-ft. of torque at 4700 RPM.  The max towing capacity is 3500 lbs., and the fuel economy is 18/25 mpg.  The Toyota Sienna requires regular unleaded fuel, and according to the EPA, the range for the minivan is 360 city/500 highway. Safety Features in the Sienna When the NHTSA conducted safety crash tests on the 2014 Toyota Sienna, the minivan earned five perfect stars.  The IIHS granted the minivan with good reviews in the four crash evaluations performed with the Sienna.  Standard safety features in the 2014 Toyota Sienna installed on the Toyota Sienna include a backup camera, Toyota’s Star Safety System™, passenger occupancy sensor for the airbag, child safety locks and car seat latches, anti-roll bars, seatbelts with pretensioners, and a driver knee airbag.

Some winter nights can dip down into the 40s.  Nearly a year ago, Alabama got a taste of freezing rain and sleet.  When cold weather strikes, you can take steps to ensure your car is ready and willing to go. Toyota of Dothan is discussing engine block heaters.  You may be surprised to discover that your car already has an engine block heater.  If not, you can talk to the dealership about having one installed. What is an Engine Block Heater? An engine block heater is a system that keeps your engine warm.  The device keeps the fluids warm so that the vehicle is easier to start when it is cold outside. If you have a plug-in device, you will only need to plug the car in for 3 to 4 hours. There are many different types of engine heaters, and each one depends on your budget and anticipated need. Dipstick heater keeps the engine oil warm A frost plug warms the coolant inside the engine block External heaters are attached to the block/oil pan Inline heaters, non-circulating or circulating, splice into the coolant hose Engine blanket is just like the electric blankets you use as home, but it is designed to keep your pipes, hoses, and fluids warm.  The blanket spreads across the engine compartment. Do I Need an Engine Heater? Although we do not dip down into subzero temperatures, engine heaters help the vehicle not have to work so hard to get moving.  Typically, engine heaters are recommended for the following reasons: You use non-synthetic oil Your park your car outside during the winter There is the possibility that your car can experience temps 50°F and below