When It’s Time for a Toyota Battery Change
In order for the electrical systems in your car to function, you need to have a healthy battery in place. Over time, even the most robust battery will succumb to everyday use and regular wear. Your battery is especially susceptible to those harsh Philadelphia winters.
When your battery goes, you could find yourself stalled. To avoid this, stay on top of battery maintenance, and have your car battery replaced before it expires. Here are a few signs that it’s about to happen.
4 Signs It’s Time for a Battery Change
Your engine is noticeably slower to start
If the engine in your car is taking longer than normal to turn over, it could spell trouble for your battery. If you hear a clicking sound, and your engine is completely dead, there’s a good chance your battery is responsible.
You notice electrical issues
Are your headlights dimmer than usual? Are your windshield wipers relaying properly? What about your power windows? If you run into problems with your car’s electrical systems — even if it’s on a come-and-go basis — a bad battery could be the culprit.
Warning lights have been activated
If your dashboard battery light is illuminated, you’re obviously going to suspect something is amiss with the battery. But did you know that other lights, including the check engine light, can indicate a weak battery, too?
Your battery is close to its warranty date
It’s not unheard of for a quality car battery to hold up for a good five or six years. That doesn’t mean that you should forget about it, though. Do you remember the date of your last battery replacement or the warranty expiration date? Finding out will give you an idea of what you can expect.
Schedule Service in Philadelphia, PA
Stay on top of battery maintenance for your car, and make sure you don’t get stuck somewhere. To make an appointment in our service center, contact Central City Toyota at your next opportunity.
The service team at Central City Toyota is here to assist you in battery diagnostics, repair, replacement, and more.
How Often Should I Get an Oil Change?
Most car owners are well aware that in order to keep their car functioning at peak condition, they need to invest in some basic, routine maintenance. One example of this is an oil change. Getting an oil change at regular intervals extends your car’s lifespan, enhances its performance, and prevents engine failure.
The big question is, how often do you actually need to get your oil changed? It’s a question without a simple or straightforward answer. It really depends on the kind of car you’re driving, and the conditions in which you drive it.
Determining How Often You Need an Oil Change
There are a few steps you can take to determine the regularity with which your engine oil should be changed. The easiest way is to simply consult your owner’s manual. This manual was written by the engineers who designed your car, so they know better than anybody what its service needs are.
If you can’t locate your owner’s manual, try a Google search. Many automotive manufacturers make manuals available online.
Alternatively, a service technician can advise you on how regularly you should have your oil changed. Simply contact our service center for an estimate.
Signs You’re Due for an Oil Change
In addition, be alert to the following red flags, any one of which is a clear indicator that your car is due for a service visit.
- Your Check Oil light is illuminated on the dashboard.
- You hear a grinding or clunking sound coming from your engine.
- Your oil level is lower than recommended (check this using the dipstick).
- Your engine oil is dark or dirty (again, check with the dipstick).
- You notice blue smoke coming from your exhaust pipe (this means your car is burning oil, and it points to an urgent maintenance issue).
Schedule an Oil Change Today in Philadelphia, PA
Having a routine oil change is critical for ensuring your car runs as intended — and it can save you from costly repair needs down the road. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s service needs, or you’re ready to schedule an oil and filter change, reach out to Central City Toyota today.
We’re pleased to announce that our General Manager, Jamie Haberle, has accepted a community service award from the Philadelphia Police Department on behalf of our dealership. Returning customers and followers are familiar with how much emphasis we place on serving our community at Central City Toyota, so you know how proud we are of this recognition.
As part of the Bigger Than Me Bookbag Giveaway on Friday, August 23, the Philadelphia 18th Police District distributed more than 400 bags to students on their way back to school. As part of the event, kids were also offered free school supplies, haircuts, and eye exams.
The bigger Than me bookbag Giveaway with Nv my eyewear! A special Thank you to all the sponsors. A little under 400 bags was given to the community. @NBCPhiladelphia @FOX29philly @6abc @Dj_Neeeknyce @PPDMGillespie @PPDDerrickWood @PhillyPolice @ppu215 @phillypolice @StaplesStores pic.twitter.com/OILe7ZnWxs
— PPD 18th District (@PPD18Dist) August 24, 2019
Central City Toyota and our sister dealership Ardmore Toyota are proud to sponsor a life-changing event like this one.
Central City Toyota Continues a Tradition of Outreach
Our dealership is part of a family business dating back to the early 1900s, and community involvement has always been at the heart of what we do. The Paul Family has previously been recognized in People Magazine for its community service, and we follow Max and Brad’s belief that even the smallest accomplishments are born from humility and grow through charity.
We’re partnered with organizations throughout our community, including the DMAX Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Philadelphia, and Children’s Hospital Philadelphia. For a full list of organizations, events, and groups we sponsor, visit our Community Involvement page.
If you would like to discuss getting involved with an event, we encourage you to reach out to us by phone or via our website.
When purchasing a new car for yourself, you’re looking for something that is both reliable and affordable. Many brand new cars may be a bit out of your budget. Fortunately, there is another option: pre-owned. Nowadays, you can find used cars that are dependable and that won’t break the bank. Before you start shopping, make sure you’re fully informed about the differences between used cars and certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, as well as the benefits of shopping for one over the other.
Buyer’s Guide: Used vs. CPO Cars
Certified Pre-Owned Cars
Certified pre-owned cars come with a manufacturer-backed warranty that can extend the typical warranty for up to several years. This means that you can rest assured knowing that your car will be serviced for most issues without you having to pay an exorbitant amount of money out of pocket.
In addition to the warranty, certified pre-owned cars are typically those in the best condition out of a dealership’s inventory. Purchasing certified pre-owned is the closest you will get to buying a new vehicle while shopping at used car values.
Used Cars
Used cars have one major benefit over their certified counterparts: lower cost. Since these often don’t come with a warranty, you may not have to pay as much out of pocket. The money you save can instead go into an emergency savings account that you can use in case of an issue down the road.
Another benefit for some used cars is that they may not even require an extra warranty. Depending on how new the car is, it might have some remaining factory warranty when you make the purchase. However, it is wise to consult with the seller to ensure that the warranty can be transferred to a new owner.
Purchase Pre-Owned Cars Near Philadelphia, PA
Once you’ve decided on purchasing a certified or non-certified pre-owned car, you need to find a reputable dealer. If you’re in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area, come by Central City Toyota and check out our large inventory of used cars for sale. You can also schedule a free test drive so you can get a feel for the car before you purchase.
Celebrating Central City Toyota’s 50th Anniversary
Central City Toyota is excited to celebrate its 50th Anniversary this year. But it actually started much earlier than that — it began in 1905 with a bicycle repair shop. Read on below to see how our award-winning dealership became what it is today.
The Story of Central City Toyota
In 1905, Max Paul started a small bicycle repair shop in the Philadelphia area, and there he honed his mechanic skills. This set him up for success running the family business: the Paul Brothers Auto Body.
Max and his son Harry were then approached with the opportunity to become a Toyota dealership. Central City Toyota was the first convenient location to be opened in Philadelphia, followed later by the equally renowned Ardmore Toyota, located nearby in Ardmore, PA. Success soon followed, and it hasn’t slowed down since.
Throughout the years, our car dealership has made a name for itself in the community, both for its service and its philanthropic endeavors. When it comes to customer service, Central City Toyota is unparalleled. In fact, our store won The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Family-Owned Business Award this year.
The best part of success? Sharing it with the community. We have been involved with many worthy causes and non-profit organizations. Here are just a few:
- DMAX Foundation
- Anti-defamation League
- Living Beyond Breast Cancer
- CARing for Kids Foundation
We’re especially proud of our partnership with the Ronald McDonald House. Since 1985, we have donated two Toyota Sienna minivans to the nonprofit every three years. This allows people to easily travel from the house to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
And the partnership doesn’t end there. Last year, we helped sponsor the 2018 Hit ‘em for the House Opening, a golf event that raised over $150,000 for the Ronald McDonald House.
Shop Central City Toyota in Philadelphia, PA
Our reputation for excellence extends to our service center, financing department, and inventory. Our wide selection of used vehicles includes all the popular Toyota models you know and love: the RAV4, Corolla, Camry, Tacoma, and more. Learn the benefits of buying used Toyota vehicles here.
How Often You Should Replace Your Car Brakes
One of the basic necessities of a car is its ability to stop. That’s why you never want to take a risk when it comes to brake performance.
The best way to ensure your brakes are working properly is to replace the brake pads when they’ve worn down. The time it takes for brake pads to wear down depends on a variety of factors, including the vehicle model, driving habits, and driving frequency. In general, though, brake pads will need to be replaced every 50,000 miles — the overarching range being 25,000 to 70,000 miles.
Usually, a mechanic will check the brake pads when they’re performing other car maintenance services. However, it’s best to be safe and request a brake pad check during your next oil change, tire rotation, or other regular auto service appointment.
Signs Your Car May Need the Brake Pads Replaced
Even before you reach 25,000 or 50,000 miles, you’ll want to watch out for signs that your brake pads need to be replaced.
Here are some common signals that you should have your brakes checked:
- You hear an unusual, persistent sound when you press on the brakes, such as a squeaking noise, squealing noise, or a deep grinding metal sound.
- The brake warning light turns on. This light is located on the dashboard and sometimes reads “BRAKE” with an exclamation point in a circle.
- The brake pedal vibrates when you drive.
- The brakes look to measure less than 1/4” thick.
Don’t Hesitate to Schedule a Car Brake Inspection in Philadelphia, PA
While Toyota vehicles are known for their reliability, you’ll still want to make sure your brake performance is what it should be. Ensure the safety of yourself and your passengers by bringing your car to a high-quality auto service center at an award-winning dealership.
At Central City Toyota in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, our expert technicians can evaluate your car brakes accurately and quickly. Schedule your service appointment today.
Here are other auto service resources to help ensure your Toyota gets the care it needs:
At Central City Toyota, we pride ourselves on being more than a car dealership — we’re an active member of our local community in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. That’s why we have formed a philanthropic partnership with the Ronald McDonald House.
The Ronald McDonald House and How Central City Gives Back
The Ronald McDonald House is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support families of critically ill children. The Philadelphia location provides everything from lodging to transportation and meals to families whose kids are being treated at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children.
In addition to this program, the nonprofit hosts the Ronald McDonald camp for children with cancer and their siblings. It also provides oral health care services to children in the North Philadelphia area via the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile unit. This service is part of a partnership with St. Christopher’s Foundation for Children.
Every three years, Central City Toyota gives back to this great cause with the donation of two Toyota Sienna minivans. This tradition began in 1985, initiated by Central City Toyota owner Max Paul. Since taxicabs are often expensive, the Ronald McDonald House needed a more affordable mode of transportation so they could transport families to and from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
In addition to this donation, Central City Toyota ensures technology experts train volunteers on how to operate the Sienna minivans and take advantage of its cutting-edge technologies.
If you’re in the market for a reliable vehicle, don’t just choose any car dealership — choose a local business that truly cares about the community. Contact us for more information.
Central City Toyota is proud to be recognized as one of the 2019 winners of the Family-Owned Business Award. This award is given out by the Philadelphia Inquirer to companies which have displayed impressive business success and accomplishments over the past year, as well as community and civic engagement.
Central City Toyota’s Story
There are two dealerships that comprise the Central City Toyota company: Central City Toyota and Ardmore Toyota. Central City Toyota has been with Toyota since 1969, and 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of bringing Toyota to West Philadelphia.
Over this time period, Central City Toyota and now Ardmore Toyota have contributed to the local community in many very meaningful ways. We employ many local residents, helping the local economy overall. We have also been a part of several philanthropic efforts in the Philadelphia community, including Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House and the Enterprise Center.
Every three years, Ardmore Toyota and Central City Toyota donate two Toyota Sienna minivans to the Ronald McDonald House. The tradition started in 1985 when owner Max Paul and his wife Sandi decided to donate Toyota minivans to the Ronald McDonald House so families could be transported to and from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Following the donations, volunteers are trained by technology experts on how to use the vans and the new and evolving technologies in the Siennas.
How Central City Toyota Values Its Employees and Community
At Central City Toyota, we face challenges by following the Japanese concept of “Kaizen,” meaning “continuous improvement.” We’re always looking to improve for our employees, our customers, and our neighbors in the community.
Most importantly, Central City Toyota looks to build long-lasting relationships with our customers. Our proudest moment comes when a customer tells us that they’re a third or fourth generation family member who purchased or serviced their vehicle at one of our dealerships.
Central City Toyota will be officially honored with the Family-Owned Business Award at a luncheon on May 16, 2019. Be on the lookout for our profile in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Sunday edition in late May. You can also visit or contact Central City Toyota here.
ToyotaCare Is There for You When You Need It Most
Taking on the payments and fees associated with your new car is already a big responsibility, so maintenance and roadside mishaps are the last things you want to worry about. Luckily, with ToyotaCare, you don’t have to. When you opt into this zero-cost warranty plan, you’ll enjoy factory-recommended Toyota service in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and more — all on Toyota.
Let’s review some of the perks below.
Peace of Mind Comes Standard With ToyotaCare
No Cost Maintenance
Under ToyotaCare, select vehicles qualify for routine maintenance for the first 2 years or 2,500 miles from the date of first use — whichever comes first.* That means fluid level adjustments and engine oil and filter changes are completely covered at their manufacturer-suggested intervals. So are multi-point inspections. And when you need parts replaced? We’ll switch them out with Genuine Toyota parts.
Roadside Assistance
You can’t foresee everything the road’s going to throw at you. That’s why ToyotaCare makes roadside assistance available for the first 2 years of ownership.** The best part? Mileage restrictions don’t apply.
Who hasn’t experienced one of those days when they’ve left their keys in the ignition or their car won’t start? It’s a good thing that battery jump-starts, lockout protection, and emergency fuel delivery are all included in the plan. And if you find yourself in a rut, ToyotaCare’s roadside assistance also offers towing, winching, and tire services.
Schedule Toyota Service in Philadelphia
We’re proud to honor ToyotaCare for applicable vehicles at Central City Toyota. Contact our dealership today and speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives for more details.
* Applies to normal factory scheduled service for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Refer to Toyota dealer for details and exclusions.
** Excludes parts and fluids, except emergency fuel delivery. Refer to Toyota dealer for details and exclusions.
Toyota Continues to Be a Beacon of Longevity
Making sure your car gets regular maintenance is an easy way to help ensure that it stays on the road for years. However, some makes and models are just designed to last longer than others. Iseecars.com examined this principle in an extensive 2017 study and came up with some staggering results.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable car, truck, or SUV, which should you choose?
Toyota Dominates List of Cars People Keep for 15 Years
Explaining the Parameters
This study was designed to help give us an idea of which makes and models were still on the road after 15 years of use. The study examined over 650,000 cars, trucks, and SUVs, including foreign and domestic options. Aside from looking at different models and styles, they even took vehicles from different years, including those from 1981 to 2002. So what models came out on top?
Looking at the Rankings
The top 15 vehicles on the list provide immediate insight into which automaker seems to view dependability as a critical factor. Toyota has nine different models in the top 12, including the Toyota Highlander, which tops the list.
After the Highlander, four more Toyotas claim spots 2 through 5, including the Toyota Sienna, the Toyota Tundra, the Toyota Prius, and the RAV4. The list also includes the Sequoia, the Tacoma, the Avalon, and the Camry.
Another interesting aspect of the results is that Toyota doesn’t just have one type of vehicle on the list. With a hybrid and several sedans, trucks, SUVs to choose from, it’s clear that reliability is a focus on all Toyota vehicles.
Examining the Statistics
When we look closer at the study, we can see that, on the whole, these Toyotas are about two times as likely to stay on the road for 15 or more years than the average car is. While only 6.8% of owners keep the average vehicle after that period, each of the top nine Toyotas on the list is kept by at least 11.5% of its owners.
After 15 years, the Highlander is still being driven by over 18% of its owners. Upon evaluating the data, it becomes clear that even used Toyotas have plenty of years left in them.
Find a Companion for Years to Come Near Philadelphia
If you’re in the market for a quality used vehicle, visit Central City Toyota. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at our Toyota dealership near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, will help you drive off in a dependable Toyota today.
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