Why Buy a Used Toyota Corolla?
There are scores of options when it comes to buying a used or certified pre-owned car. When you consider all the various available model years, your selection grows considerably larger than a new car shopper.
Narrowing down your options is the first important step, and experts agree that the Toyota Corolla is an excellent first choice. The Corolla has long held a reputation for being a quality used car purchase—Kelley Blue Book recently named it the best used compact car under $20,000. Let’s take a look at why the Toyota Corolla is top of the used car class.
Wide Selection
The Corolla first debuted in 1966 and by 1974 was already the best-selling car in the world. Upgrading its title to most car model ever sold, the Corolla reigns supreme having been sold an astonishing 43 million times around the world.
With so many brand-new Corollas rolling off the assembly line, the used car market has become fruitful for Toyota shoppers. You’ll have no trouble finding used car lots that offer a wide selection of Corollas still in great shape. This affords customers a much higher chance of finding the perfect match.
Reliability and Ease of Service
The Toyota Corolla is well known for being reliable and easy to repair. With so many previous Corolla models available and still on the road today, spare parts and accessories are easy to come by.
Reliability and ease of service are important when buying a car with a substantial number of miles under the hood, and the Corolla checks both boxes.
High Value
The Toyota Corolla is often characterized as a simple and practical sedan. And while that is largely true, it’s equally common for car shoppers to underestimate the driving experience until they get behind the wheel. The Corolla’s popularity has lasted for a reason.
Take the 2018 Toyota Corolla for example, which might be right in the sweet spot of your used car budget. This model comes packed with features, such as LED headlights, a rearview camera with path projection, Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls, USB ports, and a 6.1-inch touchscreen display that includes Toyota’s Entune multimedia bundle. Affordability, dependability, and standard features are excellent selling points, but let’s not forget safety: every 2015 or newer Corolla comes equipped with the manufacturer’s popular Safety Sense suite.
Find Your Used Toyota Corolla at Central City
Generous selection, reliability, and good value are traits Central City Toyota represent and are proud to offer in their inventory of used Toyota Corollas.
Shop our expansive Philadelphia inventory of used Toyota Corollas for sale and be sure to check out our used car specials as well. Find the perfect match and schedule a test drive online today to see why a used Toyota Corolla should be your next car.
Why Buy a Used Toyota RAV4?
Over the past two decades, small SUVs have steadily risen in popularity. For many drivers, this category of vehicles offers the sweet spot between robust performance, generous cargo space, plenty of passenger room, safety, and affordability.
If you’re in the market for a small SUV, one option you’ll want to consider is the Toyota RAV4. Not only is it one of the best-selling vehicles of its kind, it’s also one of the best reviewed. And, when you buy used, you can get all the benefits of the RAV4 for an even lower price point.
As you search for a used Toyota RAV4 for sale in Philadelphia, keep our dealership in mind. In the meantime, consider some of the merits of this particular make and model.
4 Reasons to Shop for a Used Toyota RAV4
Ample room
The Toyota RAV4 is designed to max out cargo space while still offering plenty of head and leg room to keep passengers comfortable. The surprisingly roomy interior makes the vehicle a real pleasure for family road trips, and the trunk allows loads of space for hauling your stuff.
Smooth, quiet ride
One of the great achievements of Toyota’s engineering team is how they ensure each vehicle offers a smooth ride. That’s certainly true with the RAV4, which always feels quiet and composed even as you traverse bumpy or uneven terrain.
Intuitive multimedia
Each iteration of the RAV4 varies slightly in its configuration of fixed buttons and touch panels, but all of them come with intuitive controls. Depending on what kind of infotainment is built in, you’ll be free to enjoy your preferred media while you drive.
Great overall value
Whether you buy new or used, the RAV4 is one of the most competitively priced entries in the small SUV field, but that hardly makes it “cheap.” On the contrary, it’s built with durability in mind. Decent gas mileage sweetens the deal.
Find a Used RAV4 in Philadelphia, PA
There’s much to recommend about the Toyota RAV4, and when you buy a used model, you can enjoy all of those benefits for just a fraction of the original price. To see a used Toyota RAV4 for sale in Philadelphia, we welcome you to visit our dealership today. Also make sure to check out our specials, or schedule an appointment for a test drive.
If you’re looking for a pre-owned sedan, you can’t go wrong with the Toyota Camry. Continue reading to learn why this model is the perfect choice for your next car.
Why You Should Buy a Used Toyota Camry
The Camry is a Bestseller
The Toyota Camry has been one of the most popular sedans on the market for decades now and for good reason. While it may not be the flashiest car in the Toyota lineup, it is known for being reliable and consistent — the perfect traits to look for when buying a used car.
Toyota Makes Reliable Sedans
The fact that the Camry is manufactured by Toyota implies two things.
First, Toyota is known for having some of the highest quality sedans on the market — a reputation it has held for decades. When you buy a used Toyota Camry, you can rest assured that it will last much longer than sedans made by other manufacturers giving you the peace of mind you need when buying a pre-owned car.
Secondly, Toyota has the highest resale value of any other car manufacturer which means your Camry will hold its value and make it easy to sell or trade in down the road.
Consider 2015-Present Model Years
The most reliable Toyota Camry models you’ll want to consider extend back to the 2015 model. Prior to 2012 when the Camry received a major redesign, there were a number of mechanical problems reported which stopped as soon as the 7th generation 2012 model was released.
From 2012 to 2014, Consumer Reports noted that many drivers complained about cabin noise. This problem was corrected in the 2015 model which makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking to buy a used Camry.
A second redesign occurred in 2018 which is when the majority of the safety and driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning were made standard.
Find a Pre-Owned Toyota Camry in Philadelphia, PA
Visit Central City Toyota to explore our collection of used Toyota Camry sedans. We have a growing inventory of hand-selected used cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. Be sure to take advantage of any of our available used car specials online. Give us a call or schedule your test drive today.
Find Safe and Reliable Used Cars in Philadelphia, PA
Is it possible to find a safe and reliable used car under 10k? Continue reading for some tips to help you find what you’re looking for at a price that suits your budget.
Shopping for a Used Car Under 10K
Rely on the Vehicle History Report
The way a vehicle was maintained will tell you more about the quality of a car than its age or mileage. Detailed vehicle history reports such as CARFAX® will be invaluable in helping you make an informed decision about buying any car, but especially one whose current value is listed under $10k.
Once you request your report, there are a few factors to look for. Generally, a car that has had fewer owners is likely to have a more complete vehicle history. Likewise, be sure to look for those critical maintenance appointments which should occur at specific mileage points in the car’s life. Research the recommended car maintenance schedule for the make and model of your car and make sure those maintenance tasks were taken care of.
Do Your Research
The average life of a well maintained car has extended dramatically in recent years. While a used car with 100,000 miles on it may have been close to the end of its life ten years ago, advances in technology allow many models to extend well into the 200,000-mile range.
Finding a used car that has over 100,000 miles on it could be the key to finding a reliable car in your price range. Do a little research to see the average expected lifetime of the make and model you’d like to consider. Toyota cars and trucks in particular are known for being the longest-lasting vehicles on the road. With a little due diligence, you could find yourself with a car that has many years of reliability ahead at a fraction of the price of a newer model.
Invest in an Inspection
Even with a vehicle history report and some independent research, it is always recommended to invest in an inspection before making your final decision. Hiring a trained professional who is knowledgeable about the make of your car will enlighten you to potential surprises you may encounter down the road. This is especially important if the warranty of your car has expired or if you don’t intend to invest in an extended warranty.
Find a Used car In Philadelphia, PA
The best tip for shopping for a used car under $10k is to find a trusted dealership like Central City Toyota. We have a growing inventory of used cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. Contact us today or schedule a test drive.
Hybrids have become such a popular choice among drivers due to low-emissions, high efficiency, and an enjoyable driving experience that used hybrids are becoming one of the most sought-after cars on the market. Continue reading to learn more about what you should consider when buying a used hybrid.
Shopping Guide for Buying a Used Hybrid
Buying Used Saves You Money
Just like buying any used car, buying a used hybrid will help you bypass the steepest slope of depreciation. Studies show that in just 4 years, the value of a new car can plummet up to 40% leaving you with a heavy loss on a big investment.
Look for a used hybrid that has low mileage, an outstanding vehicle history report, and a few years under its belt. Not only will this help you bypass the initial loss in value, it will also make the hybrid more affordable and will save you additional money on insurance.
Additional Homework Is Required
Some of the mechanical features you’ll want to check before buying a used hybrid are the same components you would look for in any used car such as fluids, leaks, brake wear, paint, body condition, tires, and upholstery.
Unlike traditional, however, you’ll need to do some additional homework and research when it comes to checking things like the electric drive system, battery packs, electric motors, and computerized electronic controls. These systems are unique to hybrid vehicles and can vary widely from one hybrid model to the next.
Invest in an Inspection
Invest in an independent inspection with a mechanic who specializes in hybrids to ensure everything is in working order. This is especially important if you are unfamiliar with how a hybrid drives or sounds since you won’t be able to rely on experience to tell you something seems off during the test drive.
Find a Trusted Model
Currently the leaders of the hybrid market are Toyota and Honda with the most popular hybrid model to date being the Toyota Prius. Nearly half of all hybrids on the road are currently Prius which means drivers love and trust the Prius over all other models. If you’re looking for a safe bet, choose a used model that has proven itself since the inception of hybrid technology.
Find a Used Hybrid in Philadelphia, PA
If you’re searching for used hybrid cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA, come to Central City Toyota. We’ll help you navigate our used and Certified Pre-Owned inventory so you can drive home in the used hybrid that suits your lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a test drive.
A certified pre-owned (CPO) Toyota is not just another used car. In order to obtain this certification, a vehicle must meet certain criteria to ensure it is well-equipped to hit the road again. Below is a look at the criteria that every CPO Toyota must meet before it joins our inventory.
How a Used Toyota Becomes Certified
Toyota’s 160-Point Inspection
The hallmark of CPO certification is Toyota’s rigorous 160-point inspection that each vehicle must pass in order to earn this coveted distinction. The inspection includes mechanical, detailing, and appearance standards and covers:
- Audio and alarm systems
- Braking system
- Engine compartment
- Exterior condition and appearance
- Hybrid components
- Fuel cell components
- Interior condition and appearance
- Steering system
- Transmission
- Vehicle history
- Battery system
- Emissions and state inspection
- Engine coolant and HVAC system
- Frame, structure, and underbody
- Instrument panel and electronic systems
- Lighting systems
- Tires and suspension system
- Trunk compartment and spare tire
- Additional items when applicable
The inspection also requires that any repairs or reconditioning be performed by a Toyota-certified technician.
Vehicle History Report
Every certified pre-owned Toyota comes with a detailed vehicle history report that outlines every accident, repair, routine maintenance like oil changes, liens, registrations, and more. With a CPO Toyota, nothing is kept secret from the customer.
Age and Mileage Restrictions
A Toyota CPO may not be more than 6 years old or have more than 85,000 miles under its belt, ensuring you’re getting a vehicle with plenty of life left in it.
Warranties
In order for a Toyota to be sold as a CPO, it must be accompanied by Toyota’s CPO warranty that includes:
- 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection
- 1-year/12,000-mile additional CPO bumper-to-bumper warranty
- 7-year/100,000-mile CPO powertrain warranty
- Roadside assistance
Find Your Toyota CPO in Philadelphia, PA
Start your journey by browsing the inventory of Toyota CPO vehicles for sale at Central City Toyota in Philadelphia, PA. And while you’re at it, be sure to check out our selection of other used cars, trucks, and SUVs for sale as well.
When you find one you like, go ahead and schedule your test drive online so we can have the engine warm when you arrive. A Toyota CPO is not just another used car, and Central City Toyota is anything but another used car dealership.
January is the time to celebrate a fresh start. As you pause to examine what changes to your lifestyle and routine you see for 2021, consider what resolutions you could create for your car as well.
A smooth running car requires regular maintenance. Continue reading to learn how to integrate a car maintenance checklist into your New Year’s routine.
Car Maintenance Checklist
Inspect and Rotate Your Tires
There are few things worse than finding yourself stuck on the side of the road, flipping through your owner’s manual to learn how to change a tire on the fly. While a flat or blown tire is often unavoidable, there are steps you can take to extend the life of your tires, and those will help save you money and keep your passengers safe.
Monitor the tread of your tires. The thickness of the tread will likely indicate how much longer you’ll be able to drive with these tires before they become unsafe. If the tread begins to wear thin, it’s time to start shopping for new tires.
You should also check the pressure of your tires once a month by using a tire gauge, and schedule an appointment to rotate your tires every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. During these service appointments, your service technician will do a quick inspection for damage so you can rest assured your tires are still safe to use.
Change Fluids and Filters
Clean and adequate oil, washer fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and other fluids are vital to the key functions of your car. Neglecting to monitor the levels and quality of these fluids could have disastrous effects on the performance or even safety of your car.
Replacing your filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions will help preserve the life and quality of your car. If you are unsure of how to find, clean, or replace these filters, our team at Central City Toyota has these parts available and can take care of this step for you.
Wash and Wax
Exposure to the elements can wear down the protective clear coat of your car over time. Salt from winter roads, rain, and even sunlight can have disastrous effects on your paint job, which could lead to rust or other unsightly blemishes. A simple wash and wax once a month can create a protective barrier to slow the wear and tear of the exterior of your car.
Schedule Service in Philadelphia, PA
Book an appointment today at Central City Toyota to get your new year started off right. Our service center provides car maintenance services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Be sure to check out our available service coupons when you come.
Your Toyota Tire Questions Answered
Want to know how to properly care for your tires in 2021 and beyond? Continue reading to learn the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
How often should I rotate my tires?
Rotating your tires is important for a number of reasons. First of all, it helps your tires to wear down evenly over time. Rotating and balancing your tires also provides a much smoother driving experience. If your wheels are misaligned or if the tires wear unevenly, you’ll notice a distinct shaking of the steering wheel, which can be less than pleasant.
It’s recommended that you rotate and balance your tires every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or at least as often as you get your oil changed.
How much tread should my tires have?
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether you have adequate tread on your tires, but in general, it’s time to start shopping for new tires once the tread depth reaches 3/32”. If you consistently drive on snowy roads or if rain is common where you live, then you’ll want to replace your tires a bit sooner.
The way to measure the depth of your tire tread is by using a tread depth gauge, which can be found at your local auto parts store. Another trick is to place a penny upside down in the grooves of your tire. If Lincoln’s head can be seen, then that’s a good indicator you’re close to needing new tires.
What should the air pressure be in my tires?
Tire pressure is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The recommended PSI for your tires is specific to the make and model of your car. You can find the recommended PSI in your owner’s manual or on a sticker just inside the driver-side door.
It’s vital that you monitor the air pressure in your tires, especially when the seasons change, since the tire pressure will fluctuate depending on the temperature outside. Try to check your tire pressure at least once a month to avoid driving on under- or overinflated tires.
How can I make my tires last longer?
Routine tire maintenance and inspections are the best ways to help your tires last as long as possible. Driving with underinflated tires, misaligned wheels, worn vehicle parts, or consistently driving on harsh terrain can take a toll on your tires. Take proactive measures to stretch the life of your tires.
Schedule a Tire Inspection in Philadelphia, PA
The tire center at Central City Toyota offers tire repair and replacement services in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Schedule service today, and be sure to the advantage of our available service specials when you come.
See How the Toyota Financing Process Works
Our goal at Central City Toyota is to provide every individual with the opportunity to own a safe and reliable car, even if you have less-than-stellar credit. Continue reading to learn more about our financing process.
How the Financing Process Works
See If You Prequalify
The first step in the financing process is to get pre-qualified for any of our available loans. The application process is quick and easy which essentially provides us with an overview of your current financial situation. Based on a few factors including your income, employer, and housing costs, we will compile a list of available loan options for you to consider.
Compare Your Loan Options
Once you know which loans you qualify for, you can examine them in more detail to decide which option would best fit within your monthly budget. Using our available online payment calculator, you can get a better idea of what your monthly payments will be by adjusting the down payment, interest rate, and loan term.
Other Financing Tools
Trade-In Your Vehicle
If you’re planning to upgrade your current vehicle, request an automatic trade-in appraisal for an almost instant quote based on Kelley Blue Book values that can be applied to your next car purchase. We pay top dollar for quality vehicles and the appraisal takes less than ten seconds to complete. Skip the headache of trying to sell your car independently and let us upgrade your vehicle in a single step.
Special Offers
Throughout the year, we highlight some of our favorite models in the dealership by offering used Toyota specials. Check out which specials are available today and be sure to check back to see which financing specials we may offer next.
Find Your Next Vehicle Philadelphia, PA
Now that you understand how our financing process works, visit Central City Toyota to take advantage of these loans, specials, and tools so you can drive home in the car of your dreams. We have an impressive inventory of used Toyota cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. Our finance center is ready to help you explore which financing options are right for you and your budget. Give us a call today or drop by our dealership to schedule a test drive.
Car Service Tips to Help Prep Your Car for Fall
Don’t wait until cold, dark weather sets in to find out that the heat or lights in your car are malfunctioning. Continue reading to learn more.
How to Prep Your Car for Fall
Replace Dimming Bulbs
Fall comes with a number of risk factors that require your headlights, brake lights, fog lights, and turn indicators to be working properly. Shorter days mean that you might find yourself driving in the dark more than you did during the summer. You’ll also be sharing the roads with more students as they wait at bus stops or in some locations you may have to look out for increased animal activity on the roads. Another common companion on your morning drive could be fog. Confirming that these lights are all in working order will not only ensure you have clear visibility of the road ahead, it will help other drivers see you clearly as well.
Crank the Heat
Chances are you haven’t had to use the heat in your car in quite some time. Now that colder weather is settling in, you’ll want to make sure everything in your HVAC system is in working order. Doing so now will make sure you won’t have to bundle up with a jacket, gloves, and hat just to make it through your morning commute.
Inspect the Tires
Often the last thing on our minds, tire health is an important thing to monitor and check in the fall months since bald tires will do little to help you navigate frosted or icy roads.
If you can’t remember the last time you had your tires inspected, rotated, and aligned, now is the perfect time to do so. Your technician will be able to assess whether your tires can safely survive another cold season or if they should be retired and replaced. He will also be able to look for and patch any minor damages before further wear and tear set in.
Finally, you should check to ensure each tire is adequately inflated. The cold air outside the tires causes the air within the tire to compress, therefore lowering the tire pressure well below recommended levels. Keep a tire pressure gauge handy to check that your tires are properly inflated.
Schedule Fall Service in Philadelphia, PA
Don’t wait another day to schedule service at Central City Toyota. Our service center will ensure everything is in working order before the colder weather arrives. Don’t forget to ask about our available service specials when you come in.
