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Updated On: March 19, 2026 Executive Summary Can You Top Off Your Oil? When you ask yourself, “Can You Top Off Your Oil,” the answer is no. Finally, a full change removes old oil, replaces the oil filter, and refills the engine with fresh oil for proper protection. Old engine oil becomes contaminated and less effective over time. As oil circulates through the engine, it collects dirt, metal particles, and combustion byproducts while its protective additives break down, which is why it must eventually be replaced. This is why when you ask yourself, “Can You Top Off Your Oil,” the answer is no. Topping off oil can be a short-term solution if levels are slightly low. It can help maintain proper lubrication between service intervals, but frequent top-offs may indicate leaks, oil burning, or overdue maintenance. Regular oil changes are essential for engine health and performance. Skipping oil changes can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, increased engine wear, overheating, sludge buildup, and potentially costly engine damage. Can You Top Off Your Oil Instead of Getting an Oil Change? Oil changes are one of those things that almost every car owner forgets about until the oil light suddenly pops on. When that happens, many people wonder, “Can you just top off your oil instead of getting a full change”? It might seem like a quick and cheap “fix,” but the short answer is no. Also, if you top off your oil, this is not a substitute for a proper change. We’re “Making it Simple®” what oil really does in your engine, and what you should do to keep your Clermont Toyota running smoothly. The Difference Between Topping Off Your Oil and Changing Your Oil First, let’s clarify what it means to top off your oil. Topping your oil off simply involves adding fresh Clermont Toyota motor oil to the engine because the level has dropped. This can be due to normal use, a small leak, or oil being burnt during combustion. In contrast, changing your oil involves: Draining all the old oil. Replace the oil filter. Refill with fresh oil to the correct level. That last part is important. Plus, changing your oil resets things with fresh fluid and a clean filter, while just topping off simply continues to run your engine with a mix of new and old oil. Finally, you can physically pour more oil into your engine when the level is low, but that’s not the same thing as giving your engine the car maintenance it really needs. Why You Can’t Just Top Off Old Oil Your engine oil does a ton of work. You shouldn’t just top off your oil for the following reasons: Lubricates moving parts. Carries heat away from internal components. Helps keep the engine clean by capturing contaminants. Protects against friction and wear. Over time and miles, this oil gets dirty, thick, and less effective at protecting your engine. Also, when you just top off your oil, you are adding new oil on top of oil that’s already dirty and breaking down. You’re essentially putting a Band-Aid on a problem instead of fixing it. Plus, here’s why you should reconsider to top off your oil. 1. Old Oil Gets Filthy Additionally, as your engine runs, the oil picks up dirt, metal particles, and byproducts of combustion. At some point, it becomes contaminated and can’t lubricate effectively anymore. Adding new oil doesn’t clean the old stuff out; it just dilutes it. 2. Oil Filter Needs Replacement Your Clermont Toyota oil filter’s job is to catch debris and impurities. In addition, it gets clogged and can’t do its job well anymore. Topping off your oil doesn’t replace the filter, so contaminants remain in your system, potentially circling back into your Clermont Toyota engine. 3. Chemical Additives Deplete Engine oils contain additives that help prevent wear, corrosion, and oxidation. These additives wear out over time, especially in hot engines. Even with fresh oil added, the spent additives can’t be restored without changing your oil. So while topping off might get the oil level back to where it should be, it does nothing to restore the oil’s protective qualities, and that’s the whole point of an oil change. Finally, we hope you feel confident in “Can you top off your oil?” When It Is Okay to Top Off Your Oil Additionally, there are tons of instances when it’s okay to top off your oil at Toyota of Clermont. For example, if you check your oil and it’s slightly low between service intervals, adding a bit of oil can help ensure you don’t run your engine with too little lubrication until your next scheduled oil change. This is especially true if you're heading out for a drive and don’t want to risk running too low. However, don’t make this a habit! If the oil keeps dropping quickly, or if you find yourself topping off often, that could mean the following: You have a small leak. Your engine is burning oil. The oil change interval has been exceeded. Those are signs you need real Clermont Toyota car maintenance, not just to top off your oil. The Risks of Skipping Oil Changes Skipping oil changes and relying on topping off your oil isn’t just risky. Ultimately, it can be expensive in the long run. Your engine can end up with: Decreased Fuel Efficiency Increased Engine Wear Overheating and Sludge Formation Potential Engine Failure In severe cases, neglected engine changes can lead to broken piston rings, worn cylinder walls, and even engine seizure. Finally, all of these could require costly engine repairs or replacement. While the cost of this change might sound expensive at the moment, it’s nothing compared to the cost of engine repairs if you let the oil go too long. When you think you can just top off your oil, you might want to think again. What’s a Good Oil Change Schedule? Your Clermont Toyota’s owner’s manual is the final authority, but many Toyotas using synthetic oil can go between 5,000 and 10,000 miles between oil changes depending on driving conditions and oil type. That’s why keeping routine car maintenance is so valuable. Additionally, you protect performance, extend engine life, and avoid unnecessary repairs. Finally, changing your oil based on your driving helps you stay ahead of problems before they start. How to Check Your Oil the Right Way Here’s a quick checklist on how to do this the correct way! Park on a level surface and let your engine cool for a few minutes. Pull the dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it again to check the level. Make sure the oil is between the minimum and maximum marks. If it’s low, add the correct type of oil (same grade your manufacturer recommends). Never overfill. Top Off You Oil at Toyota of Clermont Topping off your oil can be fine as a short-term fix if the level is just a little low, but it is not a substitute for a full oil change. Also, these remove old, dirty oil, replace the filter, and give your engine fresh protection that topping off just can’t match. Finally, if you haven’t changed your oil recently, don’t wait until the light comes on! Schedule car maintenance with us at Toyota of Clermont. Call us at (352) 404-7001 or schedule online today. Your engine will thank you. FAQ’s 1. How much do oil changes cost? The cost of changing your oil can vary depending on your vehicle, the type of oil used, and where the service is performed. On average, most oil changes range from about $40 to $100. However, synthetic oil changes typically cost more than conventional oil but offer longer-lasting protection for your engine. 2. How often do I need an oil change? Most vehicles need an oil change every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the type of oil used and your driving conditions. In addition, checking your owner’s manual and keeping up with regular maintenance helps ensure your engine stays lubricated and running efficiently. 3. What type of oil should I use? The type of oil you should use depends on your vehicle’s engine and the manufacturer’s recommendations listed in your owner’s manual. Most modern vehicles use synthetic or synthetic-blend motor oil, which provides better protection, performance, and longevity than conventional oil.

So you're shopping for a new SUV... and you're overwhelmed by all the options available to you. We get it, and we're here to help! Our Clermont Toyota experts are explaining the differences between the 2022 Toyota RAV4 and one of its biggest competitors, the 2022 Honda CR-V. See how they stack up and why we think you should put this new Clermont Toyota in your driveway today. How does the 2022 Toyota RAV4 beat out the 2022 Honda CR-V? First, let's talk about performance. You may be driving a car that's suitable for families, but performance can still be a priority. Here are some of the areas where the 2022 Toyota RAV4 pulls ahead of the Honda CR-V: It offers more horsepower (203 hp vs 190 hp) and more torque (184 lbs-ft vs 179 lbs-ft). It beats the Honda competition in speed tests including the categories of 0-30 mph, 0-60 mph, 0-80 mph, passing 45-65 mph, and quarter-mile speed. It also is quieter inside of the cabin by 1-3 dB at all speeds The 2022 Toyota RAV4 has greater stopping power (can stop in shorter distances) than the Honda CR-V, and has a 1.2" longer wheelbase for smoother ride comfort and more stable handling Plus, it offers other performance perks like: A turning circle that's 1.3 ft tighter More rear headroom and rear shoulder room A bigger towing capacity than its Honda competitor (3,500 lbs vs 1,500 lbs) A larger minimum ground clearance Next, let's discuss safety. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 definitely has an edge when it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe, one-upping the competition by including features that Honda doesn't, like: Front and rear shoulder seatbelt pretensioners to avoid dangerous slack that can cause injury in the case of a collision Standard driver's side knee airbags to prevent the driver from sliding out under the seatbelt AND to prevent further injury Both a secondary collision brake (which applies brake pressure during a crash to prevent a second crash) and Parking Assist with Automatic Braking to prevent a rear crash when the car is in reverse A Bird's Eve View Camera Safety Connect Services with GPS capabilities Plus, the Toyota RAV4 beat the Honda CR-V in frontal and side-impact NHTSA safety tests and IIHS in side-barrier tests in 2021. Get the most bang for your buck when it comes to features in this Clermont Toyota - the 2022 Toyota RAV4 again surpasses the Honda CR-V by offering special features like: Heated rear seats (not just heated front seats) Power one-touch up/down window switches on all seats Window locks that leave the windows still operable for the driver only Standard air-conditioned seats A 115-volt A/C outlet in the cargo area that has the ability to operate a small household appliance Finally, let's talk reliability and value. Here are the highlights: J.D. Power and associates rank Toyota better for both initial quality and long-term dependability. Further, Consumer Reports also ranked Toyota 2nd for reliability while Honda came in 5th. Toyota offers free routine car maintenance for the first 2 years or 25,000 miles; Honda does not. It's cheaper to maintain and repair a Toyota RAV4 than a Honda CR-V. There are 16% more Toyota dealerships than Honda dealerships so finding a service center is never an issue. The Clermont Toyota RAV4 outsold its Honda competition by 14% in the 2021 model year. Test drive this Clermont Toyota today Still not sure which of these SUVs is right for you? Call Toyota of Clermont today. We're open seven days a week at (352) 404-7000 and we're conveniently located just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50!

The weekend is here (finally) and with it the promise of free time, sunshine, and warm weather! It's a great opportunity to get outside and enjoy what Clermont and Lake County at large have to offer - check out what's going on in our city this weekend and our top recommendations for ways to enjoy the sunshine. Six things to do in Clermont this weekend Spring Forward Festival: Downtown Clermont is gearing up for spring and summer with a special festival! Experience live entertainment from Full Force Dance Academy, DJ Eddy Craft, and more, as well as a Clermont Golden Egg Scavenger Hunt. Food trucks will be there en masse and offer options like Maya Rosio, Da Leo's Hot Dogs, Ritter Frozen Custard, and endless other options. There's also a Kid's Zone with a bounce house, pony rides, photos with the Easter Bunny, Fairy Hair, and a train, as well as a raffle with prizes from local vendors. On top of that, a huge number of arts, crafts, jewelry, garden, and home vendors will be there so you can shop for the new season. The event starts at 10am on Saturday! Weekends at the Winery: Head over to Lakeridge Winery on Highway 27 this Saturday at noon for Weekends at the Winery! This event features live entertainment, food, and (of course) Lakeridge wines and wine slushies. Bring your lawn chair or picnic blankets and set up on the vineyard green -  you don't want to miss the music OR the surrounding views. Downtown Clermont Farmer's Market: In need of fresh produce or want to scope the wares of local artisans and vendors? Head to downtown Clermont this Sunday 2/27 at 9 am for the weekly Clermont Farmer's Market near City Hall. Don't forget your shopping bags! Entry is free. Sugarloaf Mountain Cleanup: Sommer Sports is hosting a cleanup of Sugarloaf Mountain this Saturday at 10 am. Help keep Lake County and one of our most beautiful areas... well, beautiful. Pitch in and clean up to get your weekend started right! Parade at the Winter Garden Theatre on Plant Street: Looking for an indoor activity? See Parade, a murder mystery and courtroom drama, at the Garden Theatre on Plant Street in Winter Garden. Showings are at 7:30 pm on Saturday and 2 pm on Sunday. Buy your tickets ahead of time! Classic Car Cruise Show: Head over to Eustis for the Classic Car Cruise Show to get your fill of vintage vehicles. 150+ classic cars will cruise through downtown Eustis beginning at 4 pm. You can also enjoy the food, drinks, and live music in the historic downtown area, and if you want to put your OWN car in the show, entry is free. We hope you have the best weekend - enjoy the weather and if you're in need of auto service OR want to check out our new Toyotas, stop by! Toyota of Clermont is open all weekend until 10pm and we're conveniently located just west of the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50 in Clermont.

One of the perks of owning and driving Toyotas is the fact that there are so many different options available to you. Whether you want a sedan, truck, SUV, hatchback, or minivan, we've got you covered at Toyota of Clermont. And even more excitingly, you can add a little bit of edge to your vehicle of choice by incorporating TRD packages and models into your shopping on many of our new Toyotas. In fact, TRD options are available for the: Toyota Camry Toyota RAV4 Toyota Tacoma Toyota Tundra Toyota Sequoia Toyota Avalon Toyota 4Runner TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development and long story short, it's the in-house tuning shop for Toyota that not only supports their racing efforts on a global level but also improves the brand's street cars to make them more exciting and performance-driven while still offering a level of affordability and practicality. TRD has grown exponentially over the past decades since its inception in the late 1970s and is now seen as one of the largest AND most accomplished engineering companies in the industry. So what does TRD mean for you when it comes to your next new Toyota? Well, not only can you purchase TRD parts and accessories right here at Toyota of Clermont, but you can also explore all of the packages and models up for grabs this year in person. Here's the breakdown of what you can expect from TRD in general. TRD Off-Road TRD Off-Road packages and models are designed for - obviously - off-road performance and handling. You'll find features like: Electronically locking rear differential CRAWL Control and Multi-Terrain Select Bilstein shocks A TRD-tuned off-road suspension system An approach angle that's been enhanced from 29 degrees to 32 degrees for more off-road prowess An inclinometer that displays pitch and roll to help you more confidently and safely tackle uneven terrain Wide-angle fog lights 16" alloy wheels TRD Off-Road Graphics TRD Sport This package and model are designed to really enhance the look of your Clermont Toyota, but not really the performance so much. Here are the highlights of it: A sport-tuned suspension A non-functional hood scoop TRD Graphics Integrated wide-angle fog lights 17" alloy wheels TRD Pro Want it all? The TRD Pro packages and models blend off-road performance capabilities with the comfort and convenience you need for a daily driver. You'll get features like: TRD Pro cat-back exhaust Special TRD-tuned off-road suspension with a 1-inch lift Fox internal bypass coil-over springs and rear remote reservoir shocks A 35-degree approach angle A protective front skid plate Dual-zone automatic climate control Driver-assist features A power moonroof A leather shift knob and black leather-trimmed interior 16" black TRD Pro alloy wheels TRD Pro graphics Want to see some TRD options in person? Call Toyota of Clermont at (352) 404-7000 or stop by and see us in person at 16851 State Road 50. We're just west of the Florida Turnpike!

Looking for a family-friendly new vehicle to get you around town and to endless school drop-offs, soccer practices, and tutoring sessions? Finding the right ride for your tribe can be challenging simply because there are so many options available to you. How do you find the perfect solution that's safe, reliable, and performance-driven (and stylish, let's be real) without losing it? Should you drive the 2022 Toyota Highlander or the 2022 Honda Pilot? We're weighing in. Luckily, Toyota of Clermont has a great selection of family-friendly cars, AND we've got the knowledge to help you decide which one is going to best suit your drive time needs. Today we're comparing two of the main players in the world of family vehicles - the 2022 Toyota Highlander and the 2022 Honda Pilot. Which of these family SUVs is right for you? Only you can decide, but here are the places where the 2022 Toyota Highlander definitely has a serious edge. Performance: You want to get the most bang for your buck - here how's buying or leasing the 2022 Toyota Highlander will help you do it in terms of performance. It has a 3.5L V6 engine under the hood just like the 2022 Honda Pilot, but it pulls ahead of the pack with higher fuel efficiency in both the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, as well as more horsepower (295 hp vs 280 hp) and torque (263 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. This Orlando Toyota additional has better stopping power thanks to larger brake rotors than the Honda Pilot and additionally has a shorter stop (it can stop in 116 ft vs the Honda's 128 ft). The 2022 Toyota Highlander can tow 5,000 lbs, outstripping the Honda Pilot's 3,500 lbs. It's also greener - the 2022 Toyota Highlander is rated higher in the Green Vehicle Guide by the EPA as it emits 16.5lbs less smog-producing pollutants every 15,000 miles than its Honda competition. Safety: Safety is key in a family vehicle, and the 2022 Toyota Highlander delivers in a way that the 2022 Honda Pilot just can't. Here are the highlights to take away: The 2022 Toyota Highlander has standard driver's side knee airbags to both prevent the driver from sliding out of the seatbelt AND protect their knees from hitting the dashboard. It also has standard Whiplash Injury Lessening Seats to protect the driver and front passenger in a rear-end collision, something not offered on the Honda competition This Clermont Toyota has a backseat reminder that chimes when you turn your SUV off to remind drivers to look in the backseat and check for children. Additionally, this new Toyota SUV offers a driver alert monitor to alert drivers when they're being inattentive and suggest they take a break before continuing to drive. Not to mention, the 2022 Toyota Highlander comes with features like: Optional automatic braking to prevent a rear-end collision Downhill assist control An optional Bird's Eye View camera system A secondary collision brake that's applied during a crash to prevent a second collision from occurring Not to mention, NHTSA crash results for both front crash tests and side impacts tests determined that the 2022 Toyota Highlander is safer than the Honda Pilot. Additionally, the IIHS awarded the 2021 Toyota Highlander the Top Pick Plus rating (the highest rating), while the 2021 Honda Pilot only got a Top Pick rating. Technology: Let's talk about tech, as that's usually high up on the must-have list. Here are the places where the Clermont Toyota Highlander surpasses its Honda competition: A driver-friendly child window lock so the driver can still operate the windows even if everyone else in the car can't One-touch up and down windows for front and rear seats Standard adaptive headlights for a more intuitive night driving experience A power parking brake with automatic release A standard heads-up display Other key takeaways: And here are a few more things to ponder while you try to decide whether to drive the 2022 Toyota Highlander or the 2022 Honda Pilot. According to The Car Book by Jack Gillis, this Clermont Toyota SUV is cheaper to insure AND cheaper to repair than the Honda Pilot. J.D. Power and Associates rated the 2022 Toyota Highlander in the top three midsize SUVs in their 2021 Initial Quality Study (Honda didn't make the top three, sadly). They also ranked Toyota as a brand 4th in long-term dependability, while Honda fell down the list to land at 27th place. Consumer Reports rated the reliability of this Clermont Toyota 22 points higher than its Honda competitor, and also rated Toyota 2nd in reliability overall (while Honda landed in 5th place). Toyota covers your scheduled routine maintenance for the first two years or 24,000 miles; Honda does not. That's a lot of money saved on car care. Not to mention, there are 16% more Toyota dealers in the country, so finding a place to get said scheduled maintenance done is easy. One more thing - the Toyota Highlander outsold the Honda Pilot by 88% in the 2021 model year. The people have spoken. Test drive this Clermont Toyota today Ready for your test drive? Call Toyota of Clermont today. We're just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50. Call us to schedule at (352) 404-7000!

Commuting is - for the most part - never a fun experience. Whether you're behind the wheel of your Clermont Toyota or at the whim of public transportation, the daily grind of getting where you're going can take a toll on you. However, commuting doesn't have to suck as much as you think; check out these simple tips to make your day-to-day commute a lot more tolerable when you have to hit the open road. How can you make commuting less of a chore? Tip #1: Play DJ. Music has the capability to make things a lot better, so why not play DJ while commuting? Before you head out, put together some playlists to keep you entertained. You can make playlists for different moods, different days of the week, one for the morning (to get pumped up) and one for the evening (to get relaxed), seasonal playlists, etc. - anything to keep you vibing while you're behind the wheel. Tip #2: Be productive. If you're not the type to sit back and relax during your commute, make it a productive one. You can catch up on phone calls and text messages with people via hands-free Bluetooth, listen to an educational podcast or audiobook, learn a new language, and more, all while you're behind the wheel. Just because you're commuting doesn't mean it has to be a waste of time. Tip #3: Consider carpooling. If you really hate commuting, carpooling might be a good solution, at least part of the week. Not only will you have people to talk to while you're out on the open road, but you'll also have the opportunity to take a break and either relax or maximize your time. Plus, it means fewer miles on your car and less money spent on gas - any way you look at it, carpooling is a win-win. Tip #4: Go the long way. Some drivers prefer to always take the shortest route possible, but when you're commuting, it might be in your best interest to ditch this mindset. Going the longer way can mean better fuel efficiency because of the lack of stop-and-go traffic. It also lends to a more enjoyable drive because you're not getting frustrated by all the constant stop-and-go movement. A few miles or minutes can make a big difference so if it's feasible, go the long way. Tip #5: Avoid rush hour like the plague. If you can in any capacity avoid rush hour, do it. Rush hour means way more traffic, more angry and frustrated drivers, a longer drive time, and more room for risk of accidents. If you can drive before or after rush hour while commuting, take advantage of it. Tip #6: Be a little bit of a neat freak. Commuting will be a whole lot more pleasant if you keep your car clean, clutter-free, and smelling good. Take the time every few weeks to wipe and vacuum your Clermont Toyota, keep it free of trash and clutter, and throw an air freshener in for good measure. Get into a Toyota ready for commuting at Toyota of Clermont And don't forget, a great way to improve commuting is to do it from behind the wheel of a safe, tech-driven, and comfortable car. See all of our new Toyotas that meet the bill today at Toyota of Clermont! You can call ahead of time at (352) 404-7000 to schedule a test drive, or stop by and visit us at 16851 State Road 50.

If you've lived even one summer here in Central Florida, you know just how bad the afternoon thunderstorms can get. High winds, heavy rain, tons of lightning, and even hail are a daily possibility, which means it takes some prep work to ensure your car is ready for it. Hail damage is some of the worst damage your car can sustain during thunderstorms, and our Clermont Toyota body shop is here to explain the ins and outs of it and how to both avoid and deal with this type of vehicle damage. What will hail damage do to your car? Hail damage may sound like no big deal, but it can do a ton of very costly damage to your car. It can leave dings and dents all over the body, destroy your car's paint, crack glass and plastic, and more. The damage can quickly add up and leave you with a very hefty bill. So how can you avoid it? Obviously, the best way to avoid hail damage to your Clermont Toyota is to stay out of bad weather as often as possible. This means securing a covered parking spot for your car (a garage or parking garage is best, but any sort of carport or covered parking can help) as well as watching the weather so you can avoid driving during bad thunderstorms in the summer. But let's say you couldn't find a covered spot or a storm sprung up on you unexpectedly. Hail damage has taken its toll on your ride - what should you do next? Check out these tips from the experts at our Toyota of Clermont body shop: #1: Don't try to repair the hail damage yourself. Trust us - it's tricky to fix, can be extensive, and can also involve paint repair. Unless you're a seasoned body shop repair tech, leave the work to the experts at Toyota of Clermont and let them handle restoring your car to its prior condition. #2: Contact insurance. It's more than likely that body damage done by hail will be covered by your comprehensive policy. You'll have to pay your deductible, but it'll be a lot less than paying for the repairs out of pocket. Plus, in some states (like Florida), your windshield can be replaced for free if cracked under your car insurance policy. #3: Get an estimate via your insurance. Set up a time and place for someone from the car insurance company to come take a look at your car and give you an estimate on the damage. Then they'll cut you a check so you can get repairs started. #4: Choose someone you trust for repairs. Make sure you choose a trusted repair shop to restore your car to like-new condition. Like we said, it's work-intensive and tricky, and you only want the best of the best for your repairs. Schedule repairs at Toyota of Clermont Have questions about hail damage or need your car fixed? Visit Toyota of Clermont today at 16851 State Road 50. You can also call us ahead of time to set up an estimate appointment at (352) 404-7000.

The 2022 Chicago Auto Show officially began this past Saturday, February 12. With it, it's bringing some of the latest and greatest new Toyotas and a whole lot of news. That's why Toyota of Clermont is here to give you the rundown - see what's new, what's coming, and what to expect for everything from the redesigned and anticipated 2023 Toyota Sequoia to the Tacozilla concept camper! Everything new Toyota news in Chicago this week All-new Toyota Tundra Capstone grade unveiled As if everyone weren't already impressed with the completely redesigned 2022 Toyota Tundra, Toyota upped the ante at the Chicago Auto Show this year with a new grade - the Capstone. This luxurious trim-level offers upgrades and enhancements like: A sleek and unique black-and-white leather interior trim, as well as a heated leather steering wheel and a panoramic moonroof Chrome exterior accents including trim accents, mirror caps, tailgate inserts, and 22" rims (the largest wheels ever featured on a Tundra) A standard 14" Toyota Audio System touchscreen that's voice, sight, and touch-activated Not to mention the much-anticipated i-Force Max hybrid powertrain with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a fully boxed high-strength steel frame The 2023 Toyota Sequoia is coming this summer In case you haven't heard (we don't know how you couldn't have, but just in case...) the 2023 Toyota Sequoia is completely redesigned inside, out, and under the hood and will be making its way to Toyota of Clermont this summer. At the Chicago Auto Show, more details have been unleashed, including: This new Clermont Toyota SUV will include a twin-turbo V6 i-Force Max hybrid powertrain that produces 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque (basically, what's going on under the hood of the newly redesigned 2022 Toyota Tundra). It's also got a body-on-frame construction for superior handling and comfort and an enhanced towing capacity of 9,000 lbs New independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, as well as optional load-leveling rear height control air suspension and adaptive variable suspension A new rack-mounted electronic power steering system Five grades to choose from, including SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Capstone Tacozilla Camper Concept ready for anything overland Remember the iconic Tacozilla Camper Concept that came out last year? It's still around (and we're hoping Toyota decides to make it a permanent, viable option) and still ready for any and all overland adventures. It's at the Chicago Auto Show, so you can see this new Toyota camper in person if you visit the expo hall. New electrified Toyota bZ4X to hit dealerships this spring And let's not forget the all-new, electrified Toyota bZ4X that's hitting dealerships like Toyota of Clermont later this spring. This new Toyota electric car has a range of 250 miles on one charge and is sleek and modern, as well as stocked with top technology for entertainment, efficiency, and convenience. It's also making a debut at the Chicago Auto Show for curious drivers. Stay on top of your new Toyota news with Toyota of Clermont Want to stay on top of your new Toyota news? Follow Toyota of Clermont on social media for regular updates. You can also call us at (352) 404-7000, or stop by and see us in person at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike!

Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! The celebration of love has arrived and whether you're celebrating with family, your Galentine's group, or your significant other, there's plenty going on in the Clermont area to help you make the most of it (and the warm weather that's supposed to be here this weekend, too). Check out what our Clermont Toyota dealership recommends for your holiday weekend. Things to do for Valentine's Day 2022 Horsedrawn carriages in Winter Garden: Winter Garden is beautiful any time of the year with its tree-lined streets, fairy lights, and quaint architecture... but imagine seeing it from the back of a horse-drawn carriage. Book your 20-minute carriage ride with your Valentine; SOUL Haven Ranch will be conducting them from 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm on Monday, 2/14 with tours departing from the Downtown Pavilion. Sunset at Southern Hill Farms: Watch the sun set at Southern Hill Farms this Friday, 2/11 as they extend the hours for strawberry and sunflower picking! The farm will be open until 9 pm and you can enjoy picking all the strawberries you can eat, food trucks, live music, beer and wine, and more. It's family-friendly, too, with a playground for the kids and tons of activities. Valentine's Day High Tea: Take your Galentines for a special high tea celebration at Erika's Tea Room and Gifts on Montrose St. in Clermont! You'll be able to enjoy a three-course high tea with three different teas in a plush and relaxing tea room. The menu includes lemon scones, chocolate-covered strawberry cupcakes, mushroom broccoli quiche, and more. The tea takes place on Saturday, 2/12 from 12-3 pm. Valentine's Day at Lilly's on the Lake: Looking to celebrate Valentine's in a chill atmosphere? Head over to Lilly's on the Lake for a lakeside celebration with a special menu including sirloin steak, grilled shrimp, baked potato, lava cake with ice cream, and more. You can also add a bottle of red wine to your dinner for just $10. The menu is available tomorrow, 2/12 from 11 am until 9 pm. Dessert in the Dirt Farm Tour: Family-friendliness meets the farm at the Dessert in the Dirt Farm Tour in Mt. Dora at Lil' Bit of Life farm. Celebrate Valentine's Day by exploring the farm with champagne and candy - you'll be able to meet the horses, goats, sheep, alpacas, emu, rabbits and more. Visit this Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm until 5 pm. Shop for a new Toyota today at Toyota of Clermont! And don't forget, we're open and waiting all weekend to sell you the PERFECT Valentine's Day gift... a new Toyota! Shop Toyota of Clermont online OR in person at 16851 State Road 50. Call us today at (352) 404-7000!

If you're on top of your car's health, then you know just how important oil changes are to its overall well-being. They're one of the most frequent auto services you'll schedule for it, right up there with tire rotations. However, even if you get on an oil change schedule with Toyota of Clermont and stick to a routine, it's still critical to pay attention to what's going on in between appointments. That's why we recommend checking your oil regularly - simply pulling out the dipstick can tell you a lot about your car's health. Check out this quick guide to motor oil color from the experts at the Toyota of Clermont service center. What your motor oil color means #1: If your motor oil is caramel, amber, or tan in color... You're in good shape. This is the motor oil color you want when you pull the dipstick out to check your oil. It's the color it is when it comes out of the bottle, so if it's still that hue, you're in good shape. As long as the level of the oil falls in between the two tic marks on the dipstick, you're fine. If it's below the bottom tic mark, the level is too low and you're due for an oil change at Toyota of Clermont. #2: If your motor oil is dark brown or black in color... You may need an oil change. Typically, if your oil is dark in color then it's either dirty or has been exposed to heat too much by being cycled through the engine too many times. This is especially true of oil that has dirt or debris in it. Running motor oil like this through the engine can cause damage, so if you spot this motor oil color, call us to schedule car maintenance. #3: If your motor oil is creamy or milky in color... There's probably some sort of moisture in it. Look for other signs - if you notice white smoke coming out of your tailpipe or that your coolant level is dropping a lot faster than normal, then you likely have a head gasket leak (which is causing the motor oil color to turn milky). If the head gasket blows you've got a major issue on your hands, so be sure to schedule auto service ASAP. #4: If your motor oil is creamy or milky in color AND frothy in texture... But don't forget to look at the texture, too. If your motor oil color is milky or creamy and has a frothy texture to it and you don't spot any signs that indicate a problem with the head gasket, you likely have water in it somehow. This can cause engine damage over time so don't ignore it - get your car checked as soon as you can. Schedule your next oil change at Toyota of Clermont Need help decoding your motor oil color? Call us today at (352) 404-7001. We're open seven days a week and can get you and your ride back on the road in the best shape possible. We're conveniently located just west of the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50!

When it comes down to choosing the right truck for your drive time needs, we're well aware of how daunting the task can be. There are endless options out there to choose from, even when it comes to something as simple as the make and model of the vehicle. However, you want to ensure that you pick what's right for you because as we've talk about before, a vehicle is a large investment that should last you for years to come. That's where the experts at Toyota of Clermont come in. Which is better for you - the new Toyota Tundra, or the new Ford F-150? The all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra has been completely redesigned from bumper to bumper, including under the hood, and offers a truly upgraded driving experience. However, it's not the only full-size truck out there and it's absolutely not without competition. That's why today we're comparing it to the 2022 Ford F-150. Take a look at how these two popular trucks compare so you can decide which is the better solution for your daily drive. Before we start, here's a brief rundown of what's new on the redesigned Clermont Toyota Tundra. It's redesigned from bumper to bumper and inside and out. It's sporting a new exterior look that's edgier and more modern, and an interior that's trimmed in premium fabrics and has the latest safety, entertainment, and convenience technology. It's also got a new motor under the hood. Gone is the dated 5.7L V8, replaced by a turbocharged V6 AND a hybrid option so you can customize your performance even further. How does it compare to the new 2022 Toyota Ford F-150? Here's the breakdown. When it comes to performance, the 2022 Toyota Tundra SR leads in both horsepower and torque, as well as highway fuel efficiency. The aforementioned new engine manages 348 horsepower and 405 lb-ft torque (compared to the 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft torque that the Ford F-15o gets). It also beats the F-150 with 23 mpg on the highway, and includes a standard Turbo feature, which is only an option on the Ford truck. You'll also get the best of the best when it comes to safety tech with the Toyota Safety Sense System and more, as well as front passenger and driver knee airbags that you won't find on the Ford competition. The 2022 Toyota Tundra also has an edge when it comes to technology. It comes standard with features like heated door mirrors, automatic climate control, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, the Smart Key System, one-touch power windows, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a multi-function steering wheel. Not to mention, you get more bang for your buck when it comes to the 2022 Toyota Tundra. It comes with no-cost maintenance for 24 months or 25,000 miles, which means you'll basically get free oil changes and tire rotations to help give your bank account a break. Test drive the Clermont Toyota Tundra today However, the best way to decide if this Clermont Toyota is truly for you is to get behind the wheel. Schedule your test drive today! Toyota of Clermont is open seven days a week at (352) 404-7000 and we're conveniently located just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50.

When you think of hybrid cars, what comes to mind? For most people, it's fuel efficiency or eco-friendliness. After all, these cars are renowned on a global basis for their impressive MPGs and their lack of harmful emissions. What you wouldn't think of (most likely) are performance characteristics like horsepower and torque - characteristics usually reserved for large, powerful gasoline engines (i.e. trucks). However, with the introduction of the 2022 Toyota Tundra to the market, hybrid cars have been turned on their heads. This incredible Clermont Toyota truck gets great fuel efficiency AND offers impressive performance while still cutting back on emissions. So how is it different from the hybrid system in the OG of hybrid cars, the Clermont Toyota Prius? Obviously, there's something going on under the hood and we're breaking it down. How are these two hybrid systems different? The Toyota Prius hybrid system is a major player when it comes to fuel efficiency (but not so much horsepower). It gets 58/53 mpg and 121 horsepower. The 2022 Toyota Tundra hybrid system, on the other hand, gets improved fuel efficiency over the prior V8 model (although we don't have exact numbers yet for it) and 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft torque. Here's how they do it: The Toyota Prius - and other cars like it - have a dual-motor system. Basically, the first motor takes power from the engine and converts it over to the battery so you have electrical power (and can run without the engine). The second motor connects directly to the wheels of the car and powers them. So the engine doesn't send torque to the wheels all the time in a mechanical fashion; the path can also be electrical. While it's fuel-efficient, it's not known for performance aspects like horsepower or torque. On the other hand, the Clermont Toyota Tundra is a single motor hybrid system with a mechanical path for sending power. There's a clutch in between the motor and the engine. If the clutch is open, the engine can turn off and the electric motor takes over to send power to the wheels. If the clutch is closed, however, that signals to the engine that internal combustion power is needed and the twin-turbo V6 needs to get to work to send power to the wheels. This means that you get incredible horsepower and torque (you saw the numbers and they speak for themselves) at your fingertips. Which of these Clermont Toyota hybrid systems is right for you? So which one is right for you? Do you want major fuel efficiency or major performance? The best way to decide is to come down and take a test drive for yourself. Explore all of the hybrid options at Toyota of Clermont to see which one best suits your drivetime needs. Have questions about how hybrid cars work, the costs of owning one, or anything else about these green vehicles? Call Toyota of Clermont today at (352) 404-7000 or stop by and see them in person! We're conveniently located just off the Florida Turnpike at 16851 State Road 50.