Become a First-Time Car Owner in Philadelphia, PA
Now that you’ve decided to buy your first car, it’s important to complete these three vital steps. Continue reading to learn more.
First-Time Buyer Checklist
Schedule Your First Inspection
The first step after buying a car is to find a local mechanic and schedule service for a thorough inspection. This will help you determine if this is a mechanic you can trust for future services and will also expose any surprises that might be lying under the hood of your car.
By taking this step as soon as you purchase your car, you can request any crucial repairs that need to be taken care of before your car warranty expires. It will also be a great opportunity for you to ask your mechanic for a general maintenance schedule so you can prepare accordingly.
Familiarize Yourself With Your Owners Manual
An owners manual is more than just something that should sit in the glove compartment. It provides valuable information to help you care for, maintain, and repair your car if the need arises.
If you’re in a crisis situation in need of guidance, it is important that you know where to find the necessary information in your owners manual. This could include anything from indicator lights to the location of your spare tire. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the contents now so that you’ll be able to react accordingly if necessary
Create a Maintenance Schedule
The longevity and quality of your car largely depends on how well you maintain your car. Routine maintenance such as an oil change, tire rotation, brake inspection, and filter replacement are non negotiable if you want to keep your car running safely.
In addition to these mechanical maintenance tasks, you’ll also want to ensure you maintain the cleanliness of your car, inside and out. Dirt, grime, and salt can build up on the undercarriage of your car which will develop rust. Without properly washing and waxing the paint on your car, it will become dull, lifeless, and may even begin to peel off.
Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for the specific make and model of your car. When in doubt, consult with your owners manual or with a trusted mechanic.
Become a First-Time Car Owner in Philadelphia, PA
If you’re still on the lookout for your first car, visit Central City Toyota. We have an impressive inventory of used cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. Our team will help you narrow down your options until you find the perfect set of wheels to match your lifestyle. Give us a call or drop by our dealership today to get started.
News Release
Philadelphia, PA
Central City Toyota is tapping into a familiar partnership. From now until the end of August, our dealership will assist another fixture of Philadelphia, the Enterprise Center, in donating 2,000 meals to members of the local community.
A nonprofit organization, the Enterprise Center has been offering support to minority entrepreneurs and investing in under-resourced communities for more than 30 years. Their diverse team hosts workshops and events, launches neighborhood revitalization initiatives, and provides a wealth of other resident services.
We hope this partnership will enrich the lives of our fellow community members and continue to inspire positive growth through these challenging times.
Central City Toyota: A Proud Force for Good in the Community
At Central City Toyota, we’ve been providing goods and services to the greater Philadelphia area for decades. This community means a lot to us, which is why we actively support dozens of causes and organizations like the Enterprise Center meal giveaway. For more details, contact our dealership.
Toyota Financial Services gives more than just loans. The company is just as generous at giving back to the community.
The longtime leader of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) was recently named — yet again — as one of the most community-minded companies in the U.S. by Points of Light Foundation.
This marks the sixth consecutive year that Toyota Financial Services has been included on the Points of Light Foundation’s Civic 50 list and was ranked as the number-one company in the Financial Services sector for the second straight year.
The Civic 50 measures the level and impact of community engagement among corporations and is based on Integration, Investment, Impact and Institutionalization.
Where Toyota Financial Services Shines
Toyota Financial Services is the arm of the Toyota brand that offers financing and leasing services, payment and protection programs and insurance and maintenance plans to drivers everywhere.
Toyota Financial Services was recognized on the list for its commitment to youth development, volunteer programs and both national and local partnerships like those with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Girl Scouts of the USA. The company’s community efforts have helped these youths become more on track to attend college and become more self-reliant and financially informed.
It Starts From Within
Toyota Financial Services’ outreach begins at the top. The company develops team members using community involvement programs such as the Community Ambassador program, which promotes the building of strategic partnerships with nonprofits and community activities.
The company even offers paid-time volunteering and includes employee community involvement targets on the corporate scoreboard. In fact, 63% of all Toyota Financial Services employees volunteer in their communities.
Central City Toyota Stands With Philadelphia
Community outreach is a passion for local members of the Toyota family, too. Central City Toyota has been involved with a number of organizations in our neighborhood that include:
- Ronald McDonald House Philadelphia
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Anti-Defamation League
- DMAX Foundation
- Living Beyond Breast Cancer
- Special Olympics Pennsylvania
- Families Forward Philadelphia
- CARing for Kids Foundation
All told, Central City Toyota proudly supports well over 100 organizations.
If you need help financing a new or used Toyota vehicle, pay a visit to the finance department at Central City Toyota where our customers and community come first.
Car Shopping Tips for the College-Bound Teen
Now that you’ve graduated, it’s time to plan what life will look like in the fall. Continue reading for some helpful car shopping tips so you can drive to college with the perfect set of wheels.
Car Shopping Tips for Undergrads
Choose a Lifestyle, Not a Car
Rather than investing in a car with the most dazzling features, make an investment in your new lifestyle. Consider what you want your new life to look like and then seek out specific features which will equip you to do so.
If you plan to travel or commute on a regular basis, then consider a car with low mileage and a high efficiency rating. Generally speaking, sedans and small or compact SUVs offer higher gas mileage than larger models. If adventure is in your future, then look for a car that can handle tough terrain and is equipped to haul your bike, kayak, or skis. If storage or cargo space is a necessity, consider a pickup or a car with collapsible rear seats.
Framing your mindset in this manner will help you find the car that will adapt to your lifestyle rather than having to adapt your college experience to the limitations of your car.
Invest Wisely
Your college years are the perfect time to learn how to save and prioritize your resources. While driving a brand new car right off the lot may sound like an amazing investment in the next chapter of your life, there are other options to consider which may prove to be a wiser investment.
The greatest amount of depreciation occurs in the first three years of a car’s life. Buying a used or certified pre-owned (CPO) car instead will protect your investment more than buying new. Resources like CARFAX and other vehicle history report sites can provide a detailed look into how a used car was handled and maintained by its previous owners. CPO cars are hand-picked by licenced technicians who have inspected and refurbished the car, and who can vouch for the quality of the car.
Find Your Next Car in Philadelphia, PA
The best way to compare cars is to experience them in person at Central City Toyota. We have a variety of used Toyota cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. We also have CPO Toyota models for added peace of mind. Give us a call today to learn more and be sure to see what Toyota finance options we have available.
Tips for Better Car Sanitation
Recent times have made people more aware of sanitation. People are upping their sanitation game in their homes, workplaces, and public facilities as a result.
But one place that is often overlooked in the sanitation conversation is our vehicles. Because our cars are often warm and full of stagnant air, they can be breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. Below are some car sanitation tips every driver should follow.
Key Areas of Focus When Sanitizing Your Car
There are three important areas to consider when sanitizing your car: high-touch surfaces, seats and floors, and cabin air.
High-Touch Surfaces
High-touch surfaces are the places we grab, hold, and touch. And because we’re often touching these surfaces immediately after eating, working, or touching public infrastructure, they can harbor a lot of germs and bacteria and even viruses. In fact, certain viruses can live on metal, plastic and glass surfaces for 3 or more days. The high-touch surfaces on your car that you should be mindful of cleaning include:
- Door handles
- Seatbelts and seatbelt fasteners
- Steering wheel
- Shifting knob
- Parking brake
- Power or manual window and sunroof or moonroof controls
- Turn signal and wiper blade controls
- Dashboard dials such as radio, GPS, heating, and air conditioning
- Console areas and arm rests
These surfaces can be cleaned with sanitizing wipes or preferably an isopropyl alcohol solution. Try to give these areas a good wipe down at least a couple times per week and anytime you carry passengers or pets.
It’s also wise to take a bottle of hand sanitizer with you in your car. Every time you enter your car — and especially after using a gas pump or running errands — use some sanitizer on your hands before touching anything else.
Seats and Floors
Softer surfaces such as the seats and flooring attract dirt and food particles and should be vacuumed on a regular basis. You can even shampoo these surfaces just as you would the carpet in your home. Don’t let trash and debris accumulate in your car, and be especially mindful of any car seats as they can foster an increased amount of food and dirt.
Cabin Air
The air we breathe can be just as harmful as the things we touch. Your car has a filter inside the cabin that cleanses the air you breathe while driving. Have this cabin air filter checked regularly and replace it when it begins looking dirty.
Don’t Forget to Have Your Car Serviced
We should all be taking steps to better sanitize our cars, but nobody should be neglecting proper service either. While you keep your vehicle clean, the service center at Central City Toyota near Philadelphia, PA, can keep it safe. Whether it’s brake service, oil changes, tire rotations or more, Central City Toyota has you covered. Check out our service specials including our Breathe Easy Special, where you can save money on a new cabin air filter.
At Central City Toyota, we’re doing our part to keep you safe and sanitary on the road ahead.
How to Compare Cars
Finding the right car to match your lifestyle can be overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. Continue reading for some helpful tips, so you can compare top candidates and drive home in the perfect car.
3 Areas for Car Comparison
Compare Design Features
The design of a car goes far beyond model, style, and color. When comparing cars, consider design features that could affect versatility, comfort, and performance.
If you have a growing family or if your lifestyle requires you to alternate between transporting passengers and gear, then features like split-folding seats with upholstery that can take a beating or be easily cleaned will be a game changer.
If you’re looking for a car that provides a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of your day, then search for a car that offers heated, massage, or ventilated seating.
If adventure is more your style, then look for a high-clearance vehicle to tackle tough terrain and a panoramic sunroof so you can fully appreciate the view.
Compare Performance
What does your daily commute look like? How often do you plan to take road trips? Will your adventures ever take you off the beaten path? What gear do you plan to take along for the ride?
Be sure to compare horsepower and torque, especially if you prioritize speed, acceleration, or a vehicle’s towing capacity. If you often travel on steep terrain, Hill Assist or Hill Descent Control will prove helpful. If icy roads often plague your winters, search for an all-wheel drive option. For a smooth, comfortable and responsive driving experience, be sure to compare adaptive steering, suspension, and wheelbase.
Safety and Tech
Safety will undeniably be one of your top priorities when finding your next car. You can easily find and compare car safety ratings through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Each car offers a variety of safety features to keep you and your loved ones safe. Driver-assistance technologies can help you park, merge into traffic, brake, maintain a safe cruising speed, and remain aware of your surroundings. Consider which safety features would help you drive more confidently, and search for a car that offers those features.
Technology will go a long way in making your commute more enjoyable. Compare available infotainment systems to ensure you can enjoy your favorite apps and media. If you have kids, a Wi-Fi hotspot will keep them connected and occupied on long road trips. Keep your eyes safely on the road ahead by choosing a car that offers a head-up display.
Consider Your Options in Philadelphia, PA
The easiest way to compare cars is to experience them in person. Visit Central City Toyota to see what options are available to you. We have an extensive inventory of used cars for sale in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Give us a call today or drop by our dealership to learn more.
J.D. Power has released its 2020 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, and the Toyota Motor Corporation was honored to rank in the top 5 of overall vehicle brands. In addition, they won the most segment awards in the study, a total of six — two for the luxury brand Lexus vehicles and four for Toyota. Awards were given to these four Toyota vehicles, in their respective segments: the Toyota 4Runner, the Toyota Avalon, the Toyota Tundra, and the Toyota Sienna.
These four award-winning Toyota vehicles offer even more than their exceptional dependability. Let’s take a closer look at each.
Featured 4 Award-Winning Toyota Vehicles
Toyota 4Runner
This full-size SUV is known for its versatility, adventure-ready capabilities, and power. Over the years, the 4Runner’s quality has been recognized with multiple awards. The 2019 model was in Kelley Blue Book’s Top 10 for Best Resale Value. Consumer ratings from Kelley Blue Book scored the Toyota 4Runner 4.6 out of 5, and a 4.8 out of 5 for Reliability in particular. These ratings applied to 2010-current Toyota 4Runner models.
Shop the used Toyota 4Runner for sale in Philadelphia, PA.
Toyota Avalon
This full-size sedan is known for its spacious interior, luxury trimmings and agility. The Toyota Avalon won multiple awards over the last few years, including:
- IIHS Top Safety Pick When Equipped with HID Headlights – 2019
- Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value: Full Size Car – 2018
- NHTSA 5-star Safety Rating – 2018
Shop the used Toyota Avalon for sale in Philadelphia, PA.
Toyota Tundra
This full-size pickup truck is known for its sturdy construction, impressive capabilities, and multiple configuration It’s no surprise that the Toyota Tundra has won multiple awards before this one, including the following:
- Edmunds Best Retained Value Winner for Large Trucks – 2019
- Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award – 2019
- Kelley Blue Book Top 10 Best Resale Value – 2019
- Kelley Blue Book Consumer Ratings 4.8 / 5
Shop the used Toyota Tundra for sale in Philadelphia, PA.
Toyota Sienna
This family-friendly minivan is known for its reliability, convenience features, and versatility. In addition, safety is paramount for the Sienna. You can enjoy peace of mind driving your kids, thanks to this minivan’s multiple active and passive safety features. In fact, the 2020 Toyota Sienna received a 5-star Safety Rating from the NHTSA.
Shop the used Toyota Sienna for sale in Philadelphia, PA.
Shop Central City Toyota in Philadelphia, PA
Central City Toyota is your go-to used Toyota dealership. With stress-free shopping and exceptional customer service, you’ll want to explore our large inventory of used cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA.
If you’re looking for a car that’s equipped to help you navigate rush-hour traffic safely, consider a Toyota. Packed with Driver-Assistance features, Toyota models can help you monitor and respond to potential threats around you. Continue reading to explore some of the highlights of the Toyota Safety Sense™ safety suite.
Toyota Safety Sense™ (TSS) Highlights
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) helps to maintain a safe distance between you and the car ahead while traveling on the highway. With traditional cruise control, you are responsible for adjusting your speed to match the car ahead. With DRCC, you can set your speed and relax knowing that the radar in your front grille will adjust your speed to maintain a preset distance from the vehicles ahead. If braking is required, your Toyota will notify you audibly and visually before brakes are engaged.
In models with automatic transmission, available Full-Speed Range DRCC can operate from 0-110 mph. This means that your Toyota can automatically adjust its speed all the way to a complete stop to avoid collision.
Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection
By utilizing a camera, radar sensors, and laser sensors, Pre-Collision System With Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/ PD) can help you avoid or mitigate collisions by detecting pedestrians or other vehicles ahead of you and alerting you to take evasive measures when necessary. If a potential collision is detected, you will be alerted audibly and visually to hit the brakes. Brake Assist (BA) will heighten the responsiveness of your braking or will even brake automatically to help you avoid a collision.
Certain models can also detect cyclists during daylight hours using Bicyclist Detection. Like Pedestrian Detection, Bicyclist Detection will audibly alert you if a collision seems possible so you can brake or steer accordingly.
Lane Departure Alert
When traveling at speeds over 32 mph on roads with visible lane markings, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) can detect if you begin to drift into another lane. If drifting is detected, an audio and visual notice will alert you to safely recenter your car in the lane. Certain models also offer Steering Assist which can make subtle adjustments to your steering to help you stay in your lane.
With available Road Edge Detection, your Toyota will also be able to detect if your car is drifting off the road, even if a visible lane marker is not present.
Which Used Toyota Car Is Right for You?
If you’re hoping to start 2020 off with a new car but don’t know where to start, continue reading to find out which used Toyota car is right for you.
5 Used Toyota Cars to Consider in the New Year
Corolla
First introduced in 1966, the Toyota Corolla is now entering its twelfth generation and has proven to be one of the most popular sedans for several decades. This compact car is safe, reliable, and best of all, simple. Rather than investing in bells and whistles, with the Corolla you’ll be investing in quality performance which will retain its value, keep your family safe, and run well for years to come.
Camry
If you like the reliability of the Corolla but prefer a bit more cabin and trunk space, the Toyota Camry may be the way to go. This midsize sedan is a family favorite and offers a slightly edgier exterior design. A bit more kick in the engine delivers the get-up-and-go you need to keep up with your family’s busy lifestyle.
RAV4
If a small SUV is in your future, then you have to consider the Toyota RAV4. Designed for adventure, this popular SUV is packed with features which allow the RAV4 to perform just as well in the great outdoors as it does in the city. Compact and highly efficient, the RAV4 is perfect for your daily commute and your next weekend getaway.
Highlander
Designed for the growing family, the Toyota Highlander offers space, versatility, and performance features that can take you and up to 7 of your favorite passengers wherever you need to go this year. Spacious seats collapse to reveal more than enough cargo space for any adventure. If you’re in the market for a family-size SUV, then the Highlander is the way to go.
Prius
The Toyota Prius set the standard for raising efficiency and lowering emissions. Not only can the Prius extend every drop of gas and help lower carbon emissions, it comes in a stylish and spacious design. Unlike many other hybrids, the Prius offers ample legroom for passengers and can compete with the performance of many gas-powered sedans.
Test Drive a Toyota in Philadelphia, PA
If one of these cars sounds like the right choice for you, visit Central City Toyota. We have a diverse inventory of used Toyota cars for sale in Philadelphia, PA. Contact our sales team to schedule your test drive today.
How the Car Financing Process Works
Shopping for a new car is always exciting — until you realize you have to figure out a way to pay for it. At Central City Toyota, our financing process makes getting behind the wheel easy and worry-free. Learn about how our financing process works and how we help customers just like you drive away in a new set of wheels.
The Financing Process Explained
Financing a new or used car at Central City Toyota essentially involves just two easy steps.
Get prequalified
Begin the financing process by filling out some basic information online in order to get pre-approved for a loan. Just tell us what kind of car you’re interested in and a little about your employer, income and housing costs. The application process takes only a few minutes to complete.
See your loan options
Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll contact you with some financing options that will work with your budget. We even work with customers who have less-than-perfect credit.
Additional Financing Tools
Below you’ll find some additional tools to help you throughout the financing process.
Monthly payment calculator
Use our online payment calculator to estimate your monthly payment based on your loan amount, down payment, term length, and interest rate. Or, you can use the same information to determine your buying power and find out how much car you can comfortably afford.
Trade-in appraisal
If you have a car to trade in, use our online tool to calculate your Kelley Blue Book instant cash offer. It takes just 10 seconds to see the same data that we look at in determining the value of your car. We even have a vehicle exchange program that offers above market value, similar or lower monthly payments, better financing terms, and a reduced cost of ownership.
Special offers
Before settling on a financing plan, check out our vehicle finance specials to see if you can get a great deal before our generous financing even begins. Take advantage of a special offer on a certified pre-owned vehicle, and take the fast lane toward financing your next ride.
Visit Us Today in Philadelphia, PA
Visit us today on Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to see the type of cars you can drive away in with the help of our financing process. You’ll even find luxury brands on our lot.
At Central City Toyota, your commute begins with the right kind of financing.
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