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2022 is officially in full swing and Simi Valley Toyota wants to make sure it is your best year yet! Even though the holidays are over, we still have months of winter ahead of us, and as sports car drivers know, ever-changing weather can be harsh on your vehicle. With the help of regular maintenance and check-ups, you can stay on top-top of your vehicle’s needs and stop any issues in their tracks. So be sure to schedule your Toyota service appointment online now or stop into Simi Valley Toyota today! And if you want to check up on your Toyota to make sure everything is running smoothly, be sure to take a peek below at our ultimate winter maintenance checklist! Check and change the oil: Regular oil and filter changes will keep your engine’s life running longer Nothing will destroy an engine faster than neglecting oil-level checks or fresh-oil changes. Flush and change the cooling system: A 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water will keep the cooling system in good shape and prevent corrosion and deposits from building up inside the cooling system. Be sure to change your coolant once a year Change out transmission and differential oils: While not requiring frequent service, these fluids must be changed according to service intervals. Before topping off fluids, be sure that it is the proper oil and transmission fluid needed for your vehicle Clean it up: Washing your vehicle is obvious, but when it comes to cleaning the vehicle’s underside many of us fall short. Everything the vehicle ran over can also get stuck to the underside, hosing off winter salt and road grime is a good idea to keep from corrosion or build up. Grease it up: Everything with moving parts needs grease to survive, make sure the proper vehicle parts remain greased as needed Wax on, wax off: Nothing keeps your vehicle’s paint looking good and protected like a coat of quality wax. Wax should be applied every six months. Keep Driveline components Lubricated: Driveline components such as u-joints also require regular lubrication Protect it from harmful UVs: Protect the interior plastic by parking the vehicle in the shade, harmful UVs can deteriorate the plastic On sunny days, be sure to use a window deflector screen Applying a UV protectant to prevent the plastic and vinyl from drying out can also help Keep your wheels fresh to death: Inspect, clean, and repack wheel bearings with wheel bearing grease according to service intervals This is a pretty cheap task so you won’t break the bank doing so. Top off your brake fluid: Brake fluid   moisture, which causes components to corrode and fail Replacing the brake fluid and bleed system once a year will keep from damage happening Brake fluid is pretty cheap Schedule Your Service Appointment Now!

We get it, life is crazy busy at times and when you’re living a fast-paced life, the last thing on your mind is to keep your car clean. However, your car is where you spend a good portion of your day… whether it’s driving to and from work, running errands, or meeting up with friends. Luckily for you, we have some tips on how you can get your vehicle cleaned up and look fresh to death in four simple steps! So take a few minutes to check out the tips below and get started on getting your Toyota looking fresh again! Oh, and if you need maintenance help for your Toyota, be sure to check out our available maintenance packages right here at Simi Valley Toyota! Step 1: Sort and clean Take everything out of the car, including car seats, music, and miscellaneous items stored in the glove box and door pockets. Don't forget the trunk and cargo area! Organize the rest of the items into three piles: stuff you use all the time, things you use occasionally, and items you might need in an emergency. Whatever doesn't fall into these categories should be stored in your home or garage. Step 2: Analyze Ask yourself, "How do I use my car?" Are you the taxi driver? Maybe you’re a parent with two toddlers in car seats or a salesman who travels with a trunkload of samples. Whatever it is, figure it out. Step 3: Prioritize Depending upon your needs, go through your three piles and prioritize the most important items in each group And just like seasonal clothes in a closet, many items such as ice scrapers and emergency kits should be stored back in your vehicle Step 4: Contain your needs Loose objects in the car lead to disorganization and mess. In the event of a sudden stop or a crash, they can also damage your car or, worse, injure your occupants. Get yourself a good organizer to keep all of your items concise and easy to access. Schedule Your Appointment Now!

Hello, December! It’s almost impossible to believe we are already in the last month of the year. However, we are and before we know it the harsh winter weather will be rolling in. As a responsible car owner, it is your job to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for the winter months ahead. Keeping an eye on what’s going on underneath your hood should become a regular routine. As a sports car driver, you know that the engine is the heart of your Toyota, which means giving extra attention to it is recommended. One of the easiest ways to keep your engine running smoothly is to make sure that your engine’s oil is clean. Below you will find super-simple steps for checking your engine oil. If you find it’s time for an oil change, simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online! Then leave the rest to the professionals here at Simi Valley Toyota...we will get your Toyota back on the road in no time! Checking Oil: How To Open the hood. Prop it so it stays open. Locate the oil dipstick next to the engine. It should have a yellow handle and/or be labeled. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it on a clean cloth or paper towel. Dip the stick all the way back in. Pull it out again and look at the oil level. If it’s in the middle of the hatched/indicated area, you’re good. More is better, less is okay, but if you’re lower than the recommended amount you’ll need to get your oil topped up and have your system checked for leaks. Look at the oil quality and color. If there are a lot of particles or if the oil looks sludgy, you need to get it changed as soon as possible. Put the dipstick back in. Close your hood. Schedule Your Service Appointment Now!

Hitting the road next week for Thanksgiving, yeah, so is everyone else! When you pair that with poor weather conditions it can be a real mess. In order to save yourself from that headache, be sure to check out our road trip checklist below! If you find that ride could use some well-deserved TLC and you don’t have time to do it yourself, be sure to schedule a service appointment with us today! We are confident we can get your Toyota back on the road in tip-top shape in time for Thanksgiving! Tires It’s no secret your tires are important to your performance If your tire tread is looking worn-down, has metal showing through the rubber, or crack and cuts it might be time for new ones Engine Fluids Your engine needs clean oil, coolant, and transmission fluid to run properly and maintain maximum performance Check all fluid levels before hitting the road and make sure your oil change is up to date Brakes and Brake Fluid Bad brakes and depleted brake pad fluid are a dangerous combination Get your brakes and their fluid checked before a long trip and test your brakes capacity Don’t Forget The Travel Tools It is always smart to equip your vehicle with tools for an emergency Be sure to pack a first-aid kit, flashlight, blanket, umbrella, phone charger, and some snacks Also, ensure that your spare tire is fully inflated and that you have the proper tools to change out a blown tire Travel Safe Remember to follow the speed limit, use turn signals when changing lanes, look out for debris and tire shrapnel on the road, and be wary of wet and icy surfaces Schedule Your Service Appointment Today!

Well, time sure flies by when you’re having fun! Can you guys believe that it is already November? With winter right around the corner, there is no better time than right now to get your vehicle ready for the winter months ahead. Whether you need to switch your all-season tire to winter tires, get an oil change, top off your fluids, replace an air filter, or even a more intense service, the team here at Simi Valley Toyota is here to help! We have a team of certified experts that can help you check off your long list of winter services in no time! And don’t stress about breaking the bank, because we’ve got brand new service specials just in time for your service needs! Take a peek below and find our impressive selection of service specials! We are confident there is something for everyone! Once you find the offer that works for you, just head over to our site to claim/print your deal! Then schedule an appointment and leave the rest with us! Service Offers: Alignment Special Only $179.95* Battery Test FREE* Headlight Restoration Special Only $139.95* *All Specials Expire 11/30/2021. See Our Specials Page For Information. Grab Those Service Coupons Here!

The temperatures outside are dropping and that can only mean one thing...winter is right around the corner. Before the snow starts falling, it’s important to ensure that you have all the tools you and your passengers might need before hitting the road this winter. Check out our list of 12 must-have items for your winter driving safety. And as always, if you’re in need of assistance with your fall maintenance, leave it to the professionals here at Simi Valley Toyota! Schedule your appointment online now and check out our service specials to save big on the service your ride needs! Must-Have Winter Accessories: Ice scraper and snow brush With winter right around the corner, it’s crucial to have a sturdy ice scraper and snow brush in your vehicle. Whether you’re leaving work, the mall, the grocery store, etc, snow can obstruct your view, and just using your wipers to clear your view can be dangerous for other drivers when the snow flies off at them. Small/Collapsible shovel Keeping a small or collapsible shovel in your truck can be a lifesaver if you find your vehicle stuck in the snow or if you have to clear a path to drive Gloves, hats, scarves, etc. You have the snow brush and shovel, but now you need to actually use them. Having extra gloves will be a lifesaver when you have to brush off your vehicle, pump gas, or even change a tire! Blanket Doesn’t everybody have extra blankets lying around at home? Just me? Well, if you have an extra blanket, throw it in your trunk in case you find yourself in an accident having to stand outside, or experience a breakdown in colder temperatures. Emergency flares or reflectors Finding yourself stuck in the snow? Ensure other vehicles can see you with emergency flares or reflectors Rock salt Stuck in the snow? Did ice form around your tires? Gain traction with rock salt, sand, or kitty litter! Spread the material near your tires and in your car’s path to get out of a slippery situation. First aid kit This is an all-year-round necessity, but it’s always good to replenish what you need in your first aid kit Whether your passenger has a small cut or you’re in an accident and need to be bandaged up, a first aid kit is crucial to this list Extra windshield washer fluid Make sure your windshield washer fluid has antifreeze components to prevent it from freezing. Clearing your windshield with fluid will improve visibility in a winter storm. Flashlight We all know it gets dark very early during the winter months. Having a flashlight in your trunk is always a good idea. Whether you need it for maintenance purposes or even to feel safer when walking to and from your vehicle. Jumper cables Cold weather can affect a car’s battery. You can’t start your car if the battery’s dead, which means you won’t be able to use the car’s heater for warmth. Waiting for a jump start in the cold is not fun. You won’t have to wait as long if you have jumper cables with you. Cell phone charger It’s always important to keep your phone charged before hitting the road but with maps, music, and more, your battery can die quickly Keep your phone charged up in case you need to make a call for assistance or need your maps for directions Water and non-perishable snacks Breakdowns are never fun and sometimes happen in the worst place. This means if you find yourself stranded, waiting for a tow truck and it might be a while before you get help, having a snack to hold you over is always helpful Let Us Help With Your Toyota Service!

Fall in love with new savings this month at Simi Valley Toyota! It’s a new month which means we have brand new service savings now available to all of our guests. It’s National Car Care Month, which means right now is the perfect time to your ride back into tip-top shape after a long summer of travel. Whether you need regular maintenance or a more serious repair, our team is here to help and help you save while we complete the job. Check out our new service specials below, claim your offer, and schedule your service appointment today! Service Offers: Alignment Special Only $179.95* Battery Test FREE* Headlight Restoration Special Only $139.95* *All Specials Expire 10/31/2021. See Our Specials Page For Information Grab Those Service Coupons Here!

Is your Toyota in need of some well-deserved TLC? We get it, we’re not judging! We know you’ve been in summer mode, and now that summer is over, finding time to clean out your Toyota is harder than you thought! Lucky for you, Simi Valley Toyota is here to help you get your fall maintenance in order with some tips and tricks! So don’t wait any longer, take a peek below and get started check off your to-do list! Not much of a DIY-er? No problem, leave it to the pros here at Simi Valley Toyota! Schedule your service appointment online now, and skip the line later! Car Battery: Pop open your hood and brush away the dust. Fall is a great time to inspect your car battery to ensure there are no issues down the road when the colder weather creeps in! Make sure your engine cables and terminals are in good shape and retighten if necessary for good contact. Make sure there’s no corrosion or dirt build-up. If this is the case, this would be a good time to disconnect and clean them up. If your vehicle is newer and you have a maintenance-free battery with no removable caps, there’s not much for you to do besides peeking around the remainder of your hood to ensure there are no leaks, breaks, or issues. Headlights: Many new vehicles have LED headlights that you can’t just pop out and clean, so you might need scheduled maintenance with our team if this is your situation. If you still have non-LED lighting, it’s important to clean/replace your headlights to avoid haziness. Clouded headlights can be a safety hazard, compromising night vision, and reducing the effectiveness of your headlights. This is especially dangerous in winter, where conditions are less than favorable and the darkness is more consistent. You can purchase a headlight cleaning kit, or use household items such as a toothbrush, baking soda, and the owner’s manual approved products. Tires: Tire maintenance is always a must, not just during the winter months. However, your tires play a crucial role in your vehicle’s winter performance. The first thing you should do is to check your tire tread. When your tread is 2/32" your tires are considered bald and you will need to replace your tires immediately. If your tire tread is above this you’re okay, but should consider replacing soon if it’s closer to balding. Most vehicles are purchased with all-season tires, which provide good performance all year round. However, if you live in a very snowy area, we highly suggest purchasing snow tires. Once your tires are on and in good condition, we suggest scrubbing away any dirt, grime, or buildup. Wash & Wax: Chances are your vehicle needs good washing after all your summer travel. Between dirt, dead bugs, and even beach sand, your exterior probably isn’t shining like it used to. Give your vehicle a good cleaning, this means the top, sides, underneath, and even the tires. Once you’ve washed your car, it’s a good idea to wax your vehicle’s exterior. Getting a car wax is a great way to keep your car’s finish looking new. Waxing can be tricky, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for safe products from your vehicle or leave it to the pros in our service department! Wipers: Windshield wipers maintenance is regularly overlooked. However, your wipers are extremely important for your vision behind the wheel...especially in the fall and winter months. Leaves will be falling very soon, and rain is no stranger to the fall months. This means you’ll need strong wipers to clear the leaves and rain off your windshield. Right after the leaves comes the snow, and anyone who has driven in a snowstorm knows how important your winters are. If your wipers are leaving streaks of water on your windshield, it’s time to replace or clean them. Although drivers rarely change them, wipers break down pretty quickly. In fact, they should be changed every 6-12 months. Interior: It’s time to say goodbye to the trash that’s taken up a vacancy in your car! After traveling all summer long, it’s only normal your interior needs a little pick me up. We suggest grabbing a garbage bag, your vacuum cleaner, and some multi-surface cleaner. First started by taking everything out, and we mean everything! Then, vacuum away crumbs, dust, and whatever else is in there. Don’t forget to clean off whatever item you’ll be putting back in your vehicle. Then it’s time to dust, spray down your dash, console, gear shift, radio system, and of course windows! Finally, put whatever you’re keeping back inside your cabin in a neat and orderly way, and toss whatever is remaining! Leave It To The Pros, Schedule Your Service Appointment Here!

Calling all Toyota drivers! Have you been hitting the road all summer long? If the answer is yes then it’s time to give your beloved Toyota the TLC it deserves. Whether your ride is in need of routine maintenance or a more serious repair, our team is here to help complete your fall maintenance checklist. The best part? When you take advantage of our new service specials, you can service and save big with our team right here at Simi Valley Toyota! So what are you waiting for? Check off your service to-do list and say goodbye to the stress of servicing your vehicle. Check out our new offers below and claim yours online today! Service Offers: Alignment Special Only $179.95* Battery Test FREE* Headlight Restoration Special Only $139.95* *All offers expire 9/30/2021. See specials page for details. Grab Those Service Coupons Here!

We’re getting ready to shift into September over here at Simi Valley Toyota! Even though we won’t be experiencing dropping temperatures anytime soon, it is still a good idea to stop into Simi Valley Toyota to service your Toyota after a long summer of travel. Whether you’re Toyota is in need of a tune-up, inspection, or any other service, our team of professionals is here to help! If you’re interested in completing service on your own, this week’s blog is just for you! Below you will find some DIY fall services for you to complete! Check them out and kick start your fall service today! Battery Power: Making sure your battery is fresh is important. The experts say you should change your battery every 3 years, though you could get away with 5 depending on how much you drive...If you’re thinking to yourself “I can’t remember the last time I changed my battery,” it might be time to do so. Make sure the cables are not loose. With the engine off, see if the cables can slip free from the nodes. Don’t yank, but be firm. Check for corrosion, a white powder that forms around the nodes or clamps of your battery. You can clean this off using baking soda, water, and a toothbrush. Fill your Fluids: It might cost you a little bit more but invest in a “winter blend” type of windshield wiper fluid. These tend to have more alcohol in them and less water so the chance of freezing is less. If your windshield washer fluid tank hasn't been flushed in a few years then it could use it! Be sure not to mix colors; most antifreeze is green, blue, or yellow, but be sure not to mix colors. Checking your vehicle's oil is important. If you have not had an oil change in a long time, it might be time for one. Additional Preventative Measures: Buy an emergency kit with cables, a first aid kit, flares, a battery-powered air compressor, and other things that can prevent a minor inconvenience from becoming a major problem. Check the clarity of all your lights. Keeping the gas tank at half-filled can help prevent a fuel line freeze; so can that fuel-line antifreeze mentioned earlier. Tire pressure is important in the snow, be sure that your vehicle’s tires are to the correct PSI. Schedule Your Fall Service!

The end of August is quickly coming to an end. That can only mean one thing - fall is just around the corner. After a long summer of hitting the road, it’s important to give your Toyota the tune-up and service it needs most. However, we know many car owners don’t like to complete service on their vehicles because it can become costly. But don’t worry, there are plenty of services that are DIY! This week we’re talking about tips for storing your summer tires once you’ve put on your winter tires. So take a peek below and find out all you need to know about storing your summer tires. And if you’re in need of new tires for the fall/winter season, check out our tire store now at Simi Valley Toyota! Clean them up nice. After removing your tires from your vehicle, the first thing you should do is show them a little TLC and clean them up well. If you leave your wheels on your tires as well, be sure to use proper cleaning tools for your wheels. Soap, water, and a scrubbing brush can help elongate the lifespan of your tires by getting rid of any excess dirt, grime, and brake dust. I mean, who wants to sit in filth for months on end until it’s their time to shine? No one, so clean them up nice! Let them air dry and bag them. After the cleaning process is complete, let your tires dry completely and begin placing each tire in its separate plastic bag. Each bag should be big enough to completely cover the tire and close by using a zip tie or tape. You can use extra-large garbage bags or look online for specifically made bags for tires. Then,  remove as much air from the bag as possible as this will keep any necessary oils from escaping your tires and will keep them healthy. Avoid stacking your tires. You should try not to stack your tires as they can become distorted. Instead, store your tires upright. If you have no choice but to stack your tires, stack them “white to white” and “black to black” and try to keep the tower lower to avoid toppling over while stored. If you leave your wheels on your tires, you should indeed stack them and be sure to rotate throughout their “off-season.” Keep them cool and dry. Your tires should be kept in a cool, dry, temperature-controlled area away from any sources of heat and ozone. We recommend staying away from places like sheds, garages, attics as they can cause major damage to your tires. Keep your tires out of direct sunlight, away from sump pumps, electric motors, and furnaces. Trust us, it’ll make a difference. Shop Tires Here!

We’re getting ready to hit the road for one last road trip in our Toyota. Are you? Well, if you are, you come to the right place because we have your guide to packing the ultimate road trip survival kit. We even split it up between adults and children to make things a little easier when packing! Have a few items that you will not leave home without? We want to hear what they are! And before heading out, be sure to swing in to see our team for a little TLC service before driving long, hot hours. We look forward to working with you! Hurry on in and don’t forget to check out our new service specials so you can save big this August! For The Adults: Car chargers for devices GPS or Map App on smartphone Wipes, paper towels, or towels (you choose!) Light, non-messy snacks, and water to stay hydrated Emergency Kit - Flashlight, batteries, jumper cables, tire inflator, umbrella, AAA roadside emergency contact information. Non-Emergency Kit - trash bags, tissues, cleaning wipes, hand sanitizer, and travel-size toiletries. For The Children: Sing-along songs to play Books to read Favorite toy, blanket, or pillow to stay comfortable Light, non-messy healthy snacks and water to stay hydrated Portable video games or DVD Player and movies List of games to play like “I Spy” or “License Plate Game” Tip For Everyone! Weather can be a bit unpredictable, so we recommend packing a little bit of extra clothing. Things like sneakers, a warm sweater, rain jacket. It’s always best to be prepared rather than not, especially when you’re traveling with small children. Save Big On A New Toyota Today!