From their trucks and SUVs to their compact cars, Toyota is a brand that carries a certain amount of dependability with it. This is the main reason people invest so much money when they purchase a Toyota automobile. Like all vehicles, Toyotas are vulnerable to certain issues. By engaging in the proper maintenance or opting for the right repairs, many of these problems that could potentially be catastrophic could be avoided altogether.
Let’s explore some of the most important things that Toyota owners should know about their automobiles.
1. Where Can You Find Your VIN?
From recalls to warranty issues, your vehicle identification number (VIN) is going to be one of the most important pieces of information that you can acquire.
While most drivers know that their VIN can be found on their insurance cards and vehicle registrations, there may be certain situations where neither of these are present.
The VIN on a Toyota automobile is located at two locations:
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On the dashboard near the bottom of the windshield on the driver’s side
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Inside the driver’s side doorjamb on a sticker
2. Problems with Speed Control and Oil Consumption
Toyota Camrys and Corollas are known for problems with speed control and excessive oil consumption. These problems are generally related to problematic seals and gaskets, defects in linkages, or another issue that extends to these systems.
Both of these issues can reduce the safety of your car while causing problems with emissions. A mechanic can generally solve these issues with a small amount of time and work, which in turn can prevent an accident from happening.
3. Defective Exterior Paint
This issue extends to all models of Toyota vehicles. The exterior paint may be defective, which in turn leads to a heightened amount of wear and tear on the vehicle’s exterior. While this is a relatively easy fix, allowing the paint to remain defective could compromise the integrity of your vehicle’s exterior in ways that require entire exterior panels to be replaced.
Defects in exterior paint generally result from a lack of clear coat or improper preparation of the base coat surface. This can result in paint that bubbles, peels, chips or simply washes away over time.
Refinishing the areas where paint issues exist will generally solve these problems.
4.Transmission Issues
Toyota vehicles can sometimes have issues with their transmissions. This can range from difficulty shifting gears to catastrophic failure of the transmission, which in turn can affect other parts of the drive system while hindering safety.
It is generally a good idea to follow your vehicle’s schedule of routine transmission maintenance, which includes changing the transmission fluid. This will keep the wear on the transmission minimal, which will help prevent transmission problems from arising.
If you notice any problems with your Toyota’s transmission, then do not hesitate to seek the help of a mechanic.
5. Early Airbag Deployment
Another issue present in Toyota vehicles is the tendency for early airbag deployment. This tends to occur in the case of minor taps, running over certain types of bumps and other situations where an airbag should not be deployed.
This issue can represent a safety risk, as the airbag could deploy when driving at high speeds. This could result in loss of control, obscured vision and injuries.
Many vehicles with severe issues of early airbag deployment will have a safety recall or notice posted. Affected vehicle VINs should accompany these posts.
If you encounter problems with your airbag, then do not ignore them. Have the airbag and, if need be, the entire SRS system checked to ensure that there are no other hidden issues with the vehicle.
6. Power Steering Hose Leaks
While this issue affects older Toyota vehicles primarily, it can affect newer models. The powering steering hoses may leak, which in turn may allow fluid to be lost.
As this fluid diminishes, steering the vehicle will become progressively harder. The power steering system may fail entirely given enough time, which in turn can represent a drastic increase in steering difficulty that could hinder safety on the road.
Routinely having your power steering hoses inspected for wear and tear, and changing the power steering fluid will help to ensure that no problems persist with the power steering.
Owners should be able to change the power steering fluid themselves. The type of fluid and amount can generally be found within your owner’s manual. If you do not feel comfortable changing the fluid or performing any other maintenance on your Toyota, then take it to a mechanic in Raleigh, NC.
Prevent Problems by Seeking a Mechanic
While Toyota makes dependable vehicles, problems may exist with these vehicles. By engaging in proper maintenance and repair, watching for recall notices, and repairing issues before they escalate, you can keep your vehicle roadworthy.
If you notice anything peculiar with your Toyota, then don’t be afraid to Contact Us. We can inspect your car, make any necessary repairs, and get you back on the road with a sense of security.
