Recommended Maintenance Toyota

Following the recommended maintenance schedule will keep your Toyota running trouble-free for a long, long time.  Regular maintenance is essential to obtaining the highest level of performance from your Toyota. It can also increase your vehicle’s resale value.

According to Toyota, “You should keep detailed records of vehicle maintenance, since under some circumstances they may be required for warranty coverage. These records should include date of service, mileage at time of service and a description of service performed and/or parts installed. For your convenience, a maintenance log is included in this booklet. If you sell your vehicle, you should give your maintenance records to the new owner.”

Not sure where to find the maintenance schedule for your Toyota car, SUV, or truck? You can find the maintenance guide on the Toyota website.

Follow these easy steps to find out what the recommended maintenance schedule is for your Toyota:

Steps to Find Toyota Recommended Maintenance Guides:

1. Go to http://www.toyota.com/owners/web/pages/resources.  Click on SEE MANUALS AND WARRANTY.
2. Click on CHOOSE A VEHICLE.
3. Click on the drop down box and select your car MODEL.  Next, click on the down arrow and select your car YEAR.
4. Click on the GO button.
5. Click on the WARRANTIES AND GUIDES tab.
6. Click to open the warranty and maintenance guide.

Need additional help or have questions about the recommended maintenance for your Toyota?  Contact our Smyrna or Decatur locations and we will answer all your Toyota maintenance questions!

What Does It Mean To Be An Independent Toyota Repair Shop?  

A independent Toyota repair shop is owned and operated separately from a Toyota company dealer.  A franchised Toyota new-car and -truck dealership is a retailer that sells new and also possibly used cars, including certified pre-owned vehicles, employs automotive technicians, and offers financing. Maintenance at a Toyota dealership is typically a high-margin service and represents a significant profit center for new car dealers, especially since it brings customers back into the showroom to see newer car models.

Should You Take Your Car To A Dealer Or An Independent Repair Shop?   

Consumer Reports recently published the results of their 2014 Car Repair Satisfaction Survey.

The survey was conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center in 2014. It was based on consumer satisfaction with repairs on more than 121,000 vehicles. According to the report, 80,000 were repaired at dealers and more than 41,000 at independents garages.

The survey found that, in general, independents outscored dealership for overall satisfaction, price, quality, courteousness of the staff, and work being completed when promised. With few exceptions, the entire list of independent shops got high marks on those factors.

Why is Customer Satisfaction Higher For Independent Repair Service?

Independent repair shops can charge less for auto repairs than dealers do. This means that you would save money off of the repair bill. It’s nice to save a little extra money, but price isn’t the only advantage independent repair shops offer.

While dealers can offer only OE (Original Equipment) parts, small repair shops can offer OE or aftermarket parts, which are meant to substitute for the OE part. The advantage of aftermarket parts is that, like generic prescription drugs, they are supposed to perform the same function for a lot less money.

The independent repair shop relationship with the community is another great reason to take your car there if you want the money you spend to stay local. Staff at an independent shop will take the time to educate you, follow-up with you, and keep a relationship with you. These independent repair small businesses usually employ local mechanics and office staff. Also, they typically spend a significant amount of time and money supporting organizations that benefit the local community.

T3 Atlanta Toyota Independent Repair Service

T3 Atlanta, has been a successful Independent Toyota Repair Service since 1994.

At T3 Atlanta, our business is to fix your Toyota model auto, not sell you a new car. Unlike a Toyota dealer repair service, we don’t have an interest in your trading in your Toyota vehicle for a newer model. We also don’t have a separate profit center for parts. On occasion, we can save you even more money by repairing or rebuilding parts which are routinely replaced by the dealer.

At T3 Atlanta, it is our specialty to perform Toyota auto repairs at an affordable rate. If you live in Decatur or Smyrna, please contact our office, or visit one of our convenient shop locations for your Toyota auto service or repair.

Check Engine Light Toyota Camry–Don’t Panic!

The Check Engine light on your Toyota Camry (also known as a Malfunction Indicator Light, MIL), when illuminated, usually means there’s a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system. If the onboard computer gets a reading that’s a bit out of whack, the check engine light comes on.

If the check engine light illuminates, it will either blink or remain constant, depending on the problem. Either way, the check engine light indicates that your Camry has experience some sort of a problem.  A blinking light indicates a more serious problem that needs immediate attention.

When the check engine light comes on, it could be something as as simple as a loose gas cap or it could be an indicator of a serious engine problem. If the check engine light (MIL) comes on while driving, first check the following:

1. Is your vehicle low on gas? If it is, refuel the vehicle immediately.
2. Is the fuel tank cap loose? If it is, tighten it securely.

If the check engine light came on because of a gas cap, the light will go off after taking several driving trips. If the light does not go off, even after several trips, it is time to schedule a maintenance visit with T3 Atlanta as soon as possible.

In late-model cars, a blinking light usually indicates an engine misfire so severe that unburned fuel is being dumped into the exhaust system, where it can quickly damage the catalytic converter, requiring an expensive repair. If that happens, you should reduce power and have the car or truck looked at as soon as possible.

According to Consumer Reports, check the following areas if your Camry check engine light comes on:

1. Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so.
2. Try tightening your gas cap. This often solves the problem. Keep in mind that it may take several trips before the light resets. Some vehicles have a separate indicator that warns of a loose gas cap before the condition sets off the “check engine” light.
3. Reduce speed and load. If the “check engine” light is blinking or you notice any serious performance problems, such as a loss of power, reduce your speed and try to reduce the load on the engine. For example, it would be a good idea to stop towing a trailer. Have the car checked as soon as possible to prevent expensive damage.

If your check engine light is on, your Camry check engine light codes can be read by T3 Atlanta and they can tell you what is causing the light to come on. If the light is steady, the problem is not an emergency, but you should schedule an appointment with T3 Atlanta as soon as possible if the light stays on.  Neglecting a minor issue could lead to bigger problems down the road!

Reset Check Engine Light Toyota Camry

If you need to reset your check engine light following these steps should work:

1. Locate the fuse panel cover under the steering column. Pull down on it with your fingers to remove it.
2. Examine the diagram on the fuse panel cover and find the electronic control unit fuse.
3. Remove the fuse puller from inside the fuse panel and use it to pull the fuse out for the electronic control unit.
4. Put the key into the ignition and turn on the car but don’t turn over the engine. Wait a few minutes then put the fuse back in place. You should notice the check engine light blinking a few times on the instrument panel, then it will go off.
5. Turn off the engine and replace the fuse panel cover.

If these reset steps do not work, or if you don’t feel like doing the work yourself, take your car to us in Decatur or Smyrna and we can reset your check engine light for you.

Toyota has produced a vehicle brand for its market in North America, which is Scion. It was first established in 2002, and the main objective of Scion was to attract consumer in Generation Y. In fact, its very first model that was released to the public was the xB wagon and xA hatchback, which were available in 2003, in California. The following year, the company released a sports coupe, and it was sold in the United States in 2004.

The company aims to market the brand to the youth when it was first released to the public in March 2002. At that time, only two concept vehicles were introduced at the New York Auto Show, which included the bX and the cX. In 2003, two other models were released such as the 2004xA and the xB. These were featured at the Auto Show, in Los Angeles. Moreover, these were only available in California’s Toyota dealerships when they were launched in 2003.

Other models became well known with this brand such as the next-generation xB, as well as the new and improved xD. These were both presented in a car show that took place in Miami. At the Chicago Auto Show in 2007, these two car models were unveiled to the public and gained massive positive reviews from automobile enthusiasts.

Scion Check Engine Light – What Causes the Problem?

Some Scion car owners may experience the check engine light or indicator lamp to come on at certain point. This is otherwise called the Malfunction Indicator Lamp, and it lights up during some occasions such as when the fuel cap is not secured properly, the tank is empty, or when there are problems with the braking system, engine or the auto transmission electrical system.

If you have observed that the check engine light comes on when you drive because of an engine problem, then you need to take your vehicle to a reliable car repair service for a diagnosis. This is an issue that must be addressed quickly by specialists who understand exactly how to service a Scion or Toyota car. Moreover, it is necessary for the vehicle to undergo a thorough evaluation, which must be done by a qualified technician. This way, the problem will be assessed by a professional who can determine clearly why the light switches itself on.

Aside from the check engine light, it is also important for car owners to understand that their vehicle needs routine maintenance and checks depending on the condition where they drive. Extreme weather, rough roads, driving on heavy traffic and towing heavier loads are enough to cause serious problems to any vehicles. These issues can significantly impact the performance and lifespan of any car, and this can progress to premature wear and tear.

With the help of a specialist, any car problem can be diagnosed immediately. Then, the right techniques can be implemented, which will have a positive impact to the total makeup and function of the car. It is only a matter of heading to professionals who know exactly what needs to be done to your particular vehicle concern.

T3 Atlanta is Ready to Serve You

If you are experiencing problems with your car, then you need to have it serviced and checked by specialists. T3 Atlanta is your trustworthy and reliable repair service that knows what needs to be done to any problem with most car brands including Toyota, Nissa, Infiniti, and Lexus. After all, its main goal is to ensure customers’ protection and satisfaction while out on the road. Highly trained technicians at T3 Atlanta will make sure that drivers are safe from any threats arising from dangerous vehicular problems.

The T3 Atlanta team is made up of the best technicians who can service various car brands in town. Each technician undergoes regular training, which allows them to diagnose and resolve any car problem. The company also offers discounted rates for their service such as the introductory price for oil service that starts at $19.95 (plus tax). This applies to first-time clients at T3 Atlanta.

With top-notch services at affordable rates, what more can you ask for? Visit T3 Atlanta’s two convenient locations in Decatur and Smyrna, and schedule an appointment with a car repair service technician today!

Toyota, a major automaker in Japan, is known as the third largest manufacturer of vehicles throughout the world. Otherwise called the Toyota Motor Corporation, the company was established by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937. The Toyota Group includes a number of brands including Lexus, Scion, Hino Motors and Daihatsu. It is also noted as one of the world’s largest conglomerates, and customers regard this brand as among the finest and most reliable in terms of performance.

A Toyota vehicle is highly esteemed for its reputation and overall quality. However, it is still important to have the vehicle maintained by an expert to ensure its lifespan. Thus, an independent Toyota repair company that specializes in this brand can give your car the kind of treatment it deserves. It is only a matter of finding the right experts that you can trust for any maintenance and repair services your Toyota car needs.

Importance of Routine Toyota Vehicle Repair and Maintenance

If you drive your vehicle in normal climate and road conditions, having your car serviced at least every 6 to 9 months should be enough to keep it in excellent performance. However, engines that go through short journeys and heavy traffic for a longer period of time will require more frequent maintenance and checks. This condition prevent the engine from achieving the right operating temperature it needs, so the combustion’s by-products are not burned off as necessary.

As a result, an issue arises in terms of the lubricating power of the oil, which becomes less efficient. Over time, premature wear and tear of the engine occurs, and this can progress to engine failure when the problem is not resolved. The same problem happens with cars that go through intense driving conditions. For instance, driving in extremely cold or hot weather or towing heavy loads can damage the car unless constant servicing is done. With frequent maintenance, you can protect your vehicle’s drive line, steering components, tires and brake system from deterioration.

Toyota Repair Service You Can Trust

T3 Atlanta offers high quality maintenance and repair services to vehicle owners. If you own a Toyota, it is better not to take any risks by taking your vehicle to the right specialist for repairs and routine checks. Keep in mind that routine maintenance is advisable for all cars once they reach specific mileage intervals. Failure to schedule a visit to car specialists during these intervals can increase the chances of engine problems and poor performance of your vehicle.

Hence, it is best to check your manual for maintenance schedules required for your vehicle. You can also consult the experts at T3 Atlanta for advise regarding routine checks on your car, depending on its condition. In fact, car repair experts at T3 Atlanta are well-trained to provide proper maintenance techniques to several vehicle brands including Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota and Lexus. So, you can be sure that your car is in good hands once you entrust it to these experts.

Company Background

T3 Atlanta was founded by Charles Wright, in 1994. His main goal was to establish a reliable group of car specialists that can offer quality services to vehicle owners in Atlanta. This was his motivation to start the company, and he was able to succeed in doing so after conducting research on how to structure this type of business. Presently, T3 Atlanta is providing affordable and dependable repair services for several brands including Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota and Lexus.

Choose Atlanta’s Finest Toyota Repair Service

Service technicians at T3 Atlanta have gone through rigorous training that equip them with excellent skills and knowledge on how to resolve any issue with various vehicle brands. Furthermore, the company makes sure that the rates it offers for repair services are reasonable for its customers. Oil service starts at $19.95 (plus tax). Free diagnosis is also provided in case you experience any problems with your car.

With these affordable rates offered at T3 Atlanta, it is not surprising that more vehicle owners choose the company for their needs. These discounted services are also offered all year round, so there is no need to provide specials and promos just to pack more clients. What’s more, there are two locations where you can bring your car for maintenance or repair, which is in Decatur and Smyrna. So, give T3 Atlanta a call or visit today, and keep your car in perfect condition all the time!