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Toyota has unveiled the all-new 2023 Highlander, a redesigned three-row SUV that brings bold style, advanced technology, and versatile capability. The Highlander is designed for today's active lifestyle with its roomy interior, comfortable ride dynamics, and intuitive user experience. With the available hybrid powertrain option, drivers can get even more performance and efficiency from the Highlander. Here are six features that make the 2023 Toyota Highlander stand out: 2023 Toyota Highlander Features 1. Bold Exterior Design The new Highlander features a bold exterior design with sharp lines, an aggressive front grille, and available black-on-black wheels. Its athletic stance is enhanced by the signature roofline that slopes down toward the back of the vehicle, giving it a sleek and modern look. The Highlander also has an available panoramic moonroof that extends over the third row. more 2. Spacious, High-Tech Interior The Highlander's spacious interior has been redesigned with comfort and technology in mind. The interior features a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, with standard Amazon Alexa connectivity. The Highlander also has a host of driver-assist features for added safety and convenience, including lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams. 3. Hybrid Powertrain Option The Highlander has a hybrid powertrain option for even more performance and efficiency. The hybrid setup combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to generate 243 horsepower and an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 35 mpg. 4. Off-Road Capability The Highlander can be equipped with dynamic torque vectoring and all-wheel drive for enhanced traction on slippery surfaces. It also has terrain selection, which can automatically adjust the powertrain and suspension settings to tackle various conditions like mud, sand, snow, or rocks. 5. Smart Storage Solutions The Highlander offers plenty of clever storage solutions throughout its interior. The second row slides up to 11.6 inches for easy third-row access, and the cargo area has a two-level floor adjustable to fit larger items. There's also a hands-free power liftgate, so you don't have to fumble with keys or put things down. 6. Safety Technology The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver-assist features, including lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams. It has an available blind spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert for added peace of mind. The Highlander also has a surround-view parking camera system for more visibility when maneuvering tight spaces. Want to Experience the 2023 Toyota Highlander in Rockville, MD? The 2023 Highlander is poised to be an outstanding choice for those looking for a capable and stylish three-row SUV. With its bold exterior, spacious and high-tech interior, and available hybrid powertrain, the Highlander is sure to be a hit with drivers of all kinds. Visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today to check out the 2023 Highlander and explore its features.

Engine problems can be daunting and can get pricey when it comes to repairs. Regular servicing and maintenance for the engine in your Toyota can help keep it in great shape for years to come. If you experience any problems with your car’s engine, schedule service at your Toyota dealer today. Dirty Intake Manifold on Your Car Combustion requires air and fuel to mix appropriately, and this is where the intake manifold comes in. Fuel and air mix in the intake manifold and the mixture is then injected into the cylinders. Fuel contains carbon, and as time goes on the carbon deposits can build up inside of the manifold. These deposits can partially block the air intake. Your car’s engine needs clean air, which comes in through the air filter and then enters the manifold through the air intake. Carbon and soot deposits in the manifold can affect the fuel-air mix in the manifold. A high fuel-to-air ratio will cause reduced engine performance and increased fuel consumption. more You See Blue or Black Exhaust Smoke Have you noticed exhaust smoke? Exhaust smoke should look thin and white, but if you see blue or black smoke coming from your car, it can mean your car needs engine repair. Blue exhaust smoke can mean that oil is getting into the exhaust system, which is often caused by worn valve seals. When you come in for an engine service, we will be sure to inspect valves. Are you seeing black smoke? Black smoke is a telltale sign of damage to the catalytic converter. Our technicians will examine the converter and if you need any parts replaced, we can do that for you. The Air Filter is Dirty Behind the radiator grille is where you will find the air filter, and this important part removes debris before the air enters your vehicle’s engine. Over time, the filter can experience clogs and will need to get replaced. A dirty air filter will cause problems for your car and can even damage vital engine components. Because your engine needs a lot of clean air for combustion, it will need to work harder if the air in your engine isn’t clean and can become fuel-rich. A fuel-rich engine can cause engine issues like making it difficult for the spark plugs to fire, which in turn can lead to engine misfiring and damage to engine parts. We can replace the filter if your Toyota needs a new air filter. Schedule a Toyota Engine Service in Rockville, MD Does your Toyota engine have any problems? Call us immediately at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville.

Having a car breakdown while driving down the road can be a harrowing experience. While you may not be able to predict when this moment might occur, there are ways to be prepared for this issue in Rockville, MD. 1. Turn on Your Hazards The first thing you should do if your car stops working while on the road is to let other drivers know you're having difficulties. Turn on your hazards to make yourself visible so that the other cars can slow down or move out of your way. more 2. Move Your Car Out of the Way After letting other drivers know that you're experiencing issues, the next thing you need to do if your car malfunctions on the road is to move it out of the way. If you stay in the middle of the road, this could result in an accident that might cause serious injury or death to the individuals involved. Ideally, you want to move your car to the shoulder on the right, but if that's not possible, do what you can to get out of the way of oncoming traffic. Set Up Cones or Other Reflective Indicators After moving your vehicle out of the way, you might consider setting up cones, other reflective indicators, or flares to reduce the chances of other drivers slamming into you. Only get out of your car to set these items up if it's safe. 3. Call for Help After you've moved out of the way, you'll want to call for help. Depending on the severity of the issue, this may include calling a tow truck or getting in touch with emergency personnel. This may also be a good time to call your insurance company to let them know what's happened and to start a claim to help you pay for repairs. 4. Stay With and Inside Your Vehicle After calling for help, it's in your best interest to stay inside your vehicle. Your car is much larger than you are, and with flashing hazards or other indicators that you've broken down, you will be more visible to other drivers and reduce the chances of getting run over. Staying with your vehicle is also beneficial when help arrives. They'll be able to quickly and easily find you so that they can get you someplace that is safe and staffed with professionals that can repair your vehicle. No one plans on breaking down on the side of the road, but when it happens, it's beneficial to know what to do. Whether you need a service to repair your damaged vehicle or you're ready to buy a new one, visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today!

Jump-starting a car is the relatively simple process of providing enough power to restart a dead car battery. A car battery will wear out and could suddenly die if it's not maintained. If you know how to jump-start a car, you can help a friend or family member with their battery problem. We'd like to tell you the easy steps to recharging a battery in Rockville, MD. Park As Close as Possible Electricity flows fastest over a short distance. To effectively and quickly jump-start another car, you should park as close as possible to the other car. Most cars have their battery in the front, but some vehicles have the battery in the trunk. To save time, always check the location of the other car's battery before you position your car. more Connect the Red Cables First Once the two cars are in position, it's time to connect their batteries. Your cables consist of a red pair and a black pair. The cables on a car battery are also colored red and black. The red cables are positive, and the black cables are negative. When you connect the cables, the red and black cables can’t touch each other. Connect the first red cable to the positive terminal on the dead battery and make sure it's securely connected. The next step is to connect the second red cable to the positive terminal of your car's battery. Connect the Black Cables Once the red cables are in place, connect one of the black cables to the negative terminal on your battery. The final black cable must be connected to any unpainted bolt in the other car's engine compartment. Don’t connect the black cable to the dead battery's negative terminal, as this could create a spark and potentially cause a fire. Start Your Engine Start your engine and allow it to idle for three to four minutes. Electricity will be transferred from your battery to the dead battery. If the dead battery wasn't seriously damaged, this may be sufficient power to charge the dead battery. Try and start the other car. If it fails to start, continue to charge your car for another ten to fifteen minutes. If the dead battery starts, the alternator in the other car should kick in and keep the engine running. If the dead battery fails to start after fifteen minutes of charging, it's probably too damaged to be recharged and will need replacement. Once the dead battery has started the car, disconnect the cables in the reverse of how you attached them. To ensure you never have a dead battery in your car, you need a regular battery test. Schedule a service with us today at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville. Or click here to learn more about the battery services we offer in Rockville, MD.

When it comes to car safety, your tires are where the rubber meets the road. Each year, thousands of Americans are injured in accidents because of tires that should have been replaced earlier. If you notice any of the following six signs of tire trouble, head to your local Toyota dealer for a set of new tires right away. Deep Cracks in the Treads Toyota drivers are recommended to check their tire pressure at least once a month. While doing so, take a few extra minutes to examine each tire for cracks in-between the treads. Over the years, it's natural for a few small cracks to appear. But if you see any cracks over an inch in length or deep enough to see the inner tubing beneath the rubber, then that tire is at risk of blowing out while you're driving. You'll need to have it replaced. more Deep Cracks in the Sidewalls Tire rubber becomes dried out and damaged by the UV rays of strong sunlight, dramatic changes in temperature, and even persistent rainwater. As the chemicals in the rubber wear away, the sidewalls of your tires will begin to visibly thin and develop hairline cracks. Once again, tiny cracks are harmless enough. But if you see any extremely deep cracks emerge, or cracks over an inch in length, it's best to have that tire changed out. Bulges and Blisters Knocks over potholes or impacts with curbs can sometimes rupture the inner layers of a tire, causing air to release. This air becomes trapped under the upper rubber layer, creating a bulge or blister. Any such visible bubbling means the tire is compromised and might blow out on the road. Possible Punctures Not all punctures are obvious. If you ever notice steady, persistent air loss in a tire, you might have a hidden puncture. This is dangerous, and that tire will have to go. Embedded objects such as nails or bits of metal might also be concealing a hidden puncture. Remove any such objects and see if the tire pressure diminishes, which would indicate a puncture. Insufficient Tread Depth The tread depth of your tires shouldn't be allowed to fall below 5/32 of an inch during winter and 2/32 of an inch during the warmer months. Once treads become thinner than this, you're at risk of skidding or hydroplaning. Your Toyota Dealer Advises Replacements While inspecting your vehicle during regular service visits, a technician will often notice any tire problems that you missed. That's why it's so important to have regular checks of your wheels and brakes. If a trusted technician draws your attention to tire trouble, it's wise to pay attention and have those tires repaired or replaced. When you need your tires inspected, rotated, or changed out in Rockville, MD, we have you covered. Visit our tire service page to learn more about the services we offer or schedule an appointment at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville now!

Maryland's cold weather can be brutal on your car if you're not prepared for it. Even with regular maintenance, the freezing temperatures and snow can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help protect your car during the winter months. We'll cover the most important tips for protecting your car during winter in Rockville, MD. Inspect Your Wipers One of the most important things you can do to protect your car is to inspect your wipers. Cold and snow can take a toll on your wipers, reducing their effectiveness and leaving you unable to drive safely in bad weather. Before winter arrives, check your wiper blades for any signs of wear or tear. If your blades are cracked, torn, or worn down, replace them as soon as possible. It would be best if you also topped off your windshield washer fluid to clear away snow, dirt, and debris that builds up on your windshield. You can ensure a safe driving experience in all conditions with properly functioning wipers. more Invest in a Car Cover A car cover will help keep your car protected from the elements, such as snow, hail, and frost. It can also help keep debris and dust out of your vehicle's interior. When shopping for a car cover, it's crucial to find one that fits your specific make and model of car. This will ensure that your vehicle is adequately protected and that there is no risk of damage to the paint job or other exterior components. It would help if you also looked for a car cover that is waterproof and breathable, as this will provide optimal protection for your vehicle. Use a Block Heater A block heater is a device used to preheat a car's engine in cold weather conditions. This can help reduce the strain on your car's engine and provide extra protection against damage from freezing temperatures. The block heater is usually installed on the lower part of the engine, where it can directly heat the coolant and engine oil to warm them up before starting the engine. To use a block heater, you need to plug the cord from the heater into an electrical outlet at least four hours before you plan to start your vehicle. This allows for sufficient time to preheat the engine. Once the engine is warm enough, you can start your car normally. Taking care of your car in the colder months is essential. By inspecting your wipers, investing in a cover, and using a block heater, you will protect your car and ensure it runs efficiently. Trust us at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today to get your car, truck or SUV ready for winter.   Image by Pixabay

Toyota is a brand that has been around for a while, and the reason it has lasted for so long is that it offers vehicles that are dependable and affordable. If you're shopping for a car that is reliable and looks good in Rockville, MD, then you need to check out what the 2023 Toyota Corolla has to offer. The latest features are sure to become your favorites. 1. The Engine Performance If you're shopping for a sedan or hatchback, you're looking for a daily driver that has the space and capability to get you from one place to another. Whether you need to commute to work, head to the grocery store, take your kids to school, or check out the sights around town, you'll find that the engine performance on this car is a feature you're looking for. more The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers up to 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) sends power to the front wheels to keep you moving forward to get you where you need to go. 2. The Fuel Efficiency Another feature many expect to find in their daily drivers is good fuel efficiency. The last thing you want is to spend more of your money at the pump than necessary. You'll find what you're looking for and more in fuel economy in the newest Corolla. Toyota offers a hybrid model for this vehicle, which means you can get up to 50 miles per gallon in the city and 43 miles per gallon on the highway. If you choose a standard model, you can get up to 41 miles per gallon on the highway and 32 miles per gallon in the city. 3. The Infotainment System No matter which model you get, you can expect this vehicle to come with a touchscreen infotainment system that allows you to connect your smartphone via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. You also have the option of getting a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. Some other features you can add to this car to make it your favorite include a JBL audio system and wireless charging. 4. The Safety Features Comfort and style are important in a vehicle. Still, you also want to make sure you're going to get to all of your destinations as safely as possible, and the safety features included in these vehicles can help you achieve your goals. This car has standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. When it comes to finding a daily driver with the features you want and need, you'll find exactly what you're looking for in the newest Corolla. If you're ready to check this car out for yourself, visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today or begin browsing our available Corolla models for sale today! Ready to check out more of the 2023 Toyota lineup? Click here to see our latest model guides.

Healthy tires are vital for your driving safety. One of the easier ways to maintain the health of your tires is to ensure that they are always at the correct pressure. Incorrectly inflated tires can lead to problems like additional wear or a blowout. We want you to enjoy your time on the roads here in Rockville, MD, so we'd like to tell you how to check tire pressure. What Do You Need? Checking your tires only requires a tire pressure gauge. This gauge doesn't require special knowledge or understanding and is easy for anyone to use. There are two types of gauges: digital and manual. Either of these gauges will give you an accurate reading of your tire pressure. You can check your tire pressure at a gas station, but their gauges aren't always calibrated regularly. more Advice Before Checking Tire Pressure It's important not to check your tire pressure after you've been driving. When you drive, your tires heat up. This heat is transferred to the air in your tires. As the air in the tires heats up, its pressure increases. If you check your tires too soon after driving, you'll likely get a false reading. It's advisable to allow at least three hours before checking your tires. Find Your Tire Pressure Readings The correct pressure for your tires is listed in your car's manual and on a sticker or plate in the inside door jamb of the front driver side door. When you look at the tire pressure, your front and rear tires may have different readings. If your car is an FWD, the rear tires will have a higher pressure, and the front tires on an RWD car will have a higher pressure. The tires that carry the most weight will always have a higher pressure. Each tire has a tire pressure marked on it. This pressure is not the correct pressure for your car, it's the maximum allowable pressure for the tire. Check Your Tires Remove the cap from the tire nozzle and attach the tire pressure gauge. Write down the reading for the tire, then replace the cap and repeat this process with the other three tires. Once you have all the readings, compare the actual readings to the correct readings for your car. You now know which tires need to have their pressure corrected. Low tire pressure will increase wear and damage to a tire, and high pressure could result in a blowout. Now you know how to check your tires, so you can help keep them in good condition for longer. If you'd like to know more about tire care, contact us at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville or visit our tire information page to learn more!

Car emissions testing, or smog checking, is required in thirteen counties in Maryland and Baltimore. Rockville, MD, is in Montgomery County, and residents require a regular smog check to allow them to drive on the roads in the County. These tests are known as Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program (VEIP) tests. We'd like to tell you what an emissions test is and how you get one in the Rockville, MD area. What Is a VEIP Test? A VEIP test assesses the amount of pollution produced by your car. Since the 1970s, control of automobile air pollution has become very important. The catalytic converter in your car's exhaust is designed to remove over 99% of polluting and toxic emissions. It does this by converting dangerous chemicals into harmless ones. more There are three types of VEIP tests, the OBDII, the tailpipe, and the gas cap. Your car will only take one of these, as the different tests cover vehicle sizes and ages. You need to book a test with a VEIP-authorized center in Montgomery County. When Do You Need a Test? VEIP tests must be conducted every two years, and the test coincides with your vehicle registration renewal. New cars and hybrid cars only require their first test three years after first registration. Electric cars don't require a VEIP test as they don't produce any pollution. Requirements for the Test Once you've made your booking at a VEIP center, you'll need to bring your Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MMVA) emissions test notice, your car, and $14.00 on the day of the test. Which Test Do I Need? Your car will undergo one of the tests below. Once your car has passed the test, you'll receive a VEIP test certificate, and the results will be uploaded to the MMVA. OBDII This test applies to all car and light passenger vehicles manufactured since 1996. Your car's computer will be connected to the testing center's computer, which checks the emissions system on your car. Once the test concludes, their computer will generate a report. Tailpipe Test This test applies to cars and light passenger vehicles built between 1977 and 1995. This test requires you to drive your car at highway speed for twenty minutes to warm up the engine. This will reveal any holes or leaks in the exhaust pipe. Gas Cap Test This test also applies to cars and light passenger vehicles built between 1977 and 1995. It checks for leaks or damage to the gas cap or its seals.   With everything you need to know about emissions tests, you can still count on us at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville if you have any questions or need additional help! Just contact us today!

Are you looking for a minivan that's gentle on the environment but can still provide you with powerful performance and a range of great features? The 2023 Toyota Sienna is a great option. You'll quickly fall in love with everything it can offer you. Here's your overview of what makes this car so great. The Basics There's lots to love about the Sienna. If you've been searching for a minivan, this is one you'll want to make sure you consider. more Regardless of whether you need a minivan for family activities or you're taking a lot of equipment from place to place, the Sienna is here for you. What's New This Year? With this being the 25th anniversary of the Toyota nameplate, there's an all-new trim level available for the Sienna. However, there will be limited numbers of this trim, so act fast if you want one. Trim Levels If all you want from your Sienna are the basics, then you'll want to take a look at the LE model. For some additional features, go ahead and check out the XLE or the XSE. For something mid-range, consider opting for the Woodland Edition.   Next up in the lineup is the 25th Anniversary Edition, offering a range of super luxurious features. For even more luxury, don't forget to take a look at the Limited model, or the Platinum if you want the very best that this vehicle can offer. Engine and Performance This minivan is offered exclusively as a hybrid, making it the perfect car for drivers who are concerned about the environment and their impact on it. When you purchase any 2023 Sienna model, you'll enjoy the car's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that's matched with a pair of electric motors. Together, this setup makes 245 horsepower.   You also have the option of going with all-wheel drive, which will add a third motor near the car's back wheels for even more control. Interior The 2023 Sienna's smooth and sleek design continues in its interior. The dash is driver-focused, and seating throughout the vehicle is super comfortable. There's lots of room for passengers and luggage alike.   Depending on which trim level you opt for, you can also expect some additional features. For instance, the top two trim levels come with available onboard vacuums to make cleaning up easier than ever. There are several USB ports throughout the cabin to keep your phone charged, and you can connect wirelessly to the infotainment system with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.   If you've been looking into minivans, the 2023 Sienna isn't one you're going to want to pass up. Be sure to check out the full 2023 Toyota lineup today! It's ready to provide you with a seriously impressive ride that you're going to love. Ready to learn more? Visit us at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville.

Drivers local to Rockville, MD, can get their annual car safety inspection at the local Toyota dealership. Unless your car's manual or your service technicians say otherwise, it's best to come in at least once every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Read on to find out more about a safety inspection and how you can likely reduce the cost of car maintenance. Overview In Maryland, you'll need to get your car inspected when you first buy it, when you move to the state, and when you sell it. What's more, there is an emissions test that needs to be completed every two years. The purpose of this is to check whether your car is emitting more greenhouse gases than necessary. If so, you might have to get the problem fixed. more Although there is no legal requirement to have an annual safety inspection, it's important to do so anyway. Not only can you keep your car in great condition and safe to drive that way, but you're also saving money. The likelihood of big problems is lower when your vehicle is kept in good shape, and you should be able to sell it for more if you can prove that you've been a responsible car owner. What Gets Inspected? All the most important systems of your car get inspected. This includes everything related to the engine, the brakes, the steering system, the safety equipment like the seatbelts, the lights, and the exhaust. Aside from doing diagnostic tests, your mechanics might also take your car for a test ride to check whether it drives smoothly. If there are any problems, we will let you know and suggest the appropriate repairs. How Can I Maintain My Car Cheaply? Keeping your car in good shape doesn't have to cost a lot. To prevent extensive damage, always attend your annual scheduled inspections and maintenance appointments. That way, issues can get caught early, before they develop into bigger problems that cost a lot to be fixed. Although you might pay slightly more at the dealership than at a general mechanic, it's best to choose the brand-name dealer because the employees are trained to work with Toyota models.   To further reduce the cost of car ownership, you can sign up with ToyotaCare or ToyotaCare Plus. These programs allow you to access free maintenance and emergency services for several years.   Getting your car inspected at least once a year is a good idea because it allows you to drive safely, reduce your overall car maintenance costs, and keep your Toyota in great shape. Visit us at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville anytime or schedule an auto service appointment for your vehicle now. Our experienced technicians in Rockville, MD will be happy to take a look at your car.

No matter how much we love our cars, there's always a time when we need to move on to better things. But selling a car in Maryland isn't always straightforward. There are a number of important factors and documents to consider, and as such, we've put together this quick guide to lead you through the most important steps. Get Your Car Inspected As a seller, it is your responsibility to ensure that the car is safe to drive. To prove this, you need to get your car inspected by a licensed Maryland inspection station. This can be a car dealer, a specialist service center, or even just a service station, as most of these will have the necessary license. Once your car has passed its inspection, you will receive a Maryland Safety Inspection Certificate, which is valid for up to 90 days. more Gather Vehicle Documentation Throughout the time you have had your car, it will have accumulated a lot of documents. These probably include not only the owner's manual but, if possible, all maintenance records for the vehicle. The buyer will be much more confident if they know the full history of the car. Your mechanic or dealership might have kept an electronic record if you can't find the paper copy.   The most important document that you have to find, however, is the Certificate of Title, which proves that you are the car's rightful owner. If it's been lost or damaged, then a replacement can be acquired, for a small fee. Things are complicated however if you have a lien on the title, or in other words, have taken out a car loan to pay for the vehicle. In this case, you must either pay off the loan in full, or the lienholder must send you a letter of lien release. In the latter case, you must send a copy to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration. Transfer The Title When everything else is done, the buyer and seller must both fill out the appropriate sections on the back of the title form, including names, addresses, and signatures. The purchase price will need to be entered as well.   From there, all that's left to be done is to cancel your insurance. You must remove your plates before handing the vehicle over, as you will be liable for any violations by the new owner. The MVA also insists that you return your plates to them before the insurance is canceled to avoid any car being driven uninsured. Gifting a Vehicle If you're looking to gift a vehicle to a relative, the process is much the same as above. The only differences are that there will be no sales tax incurred if there is no charge, but the new owner will still need to pay a title transfer fee.   We hope this guide helps you in the process of selling your car. We have you covered if you're a Maryland resident looking for more beneficial auto-related content! Once you're ready to start shopping for an upgrade, check out our new Toyota specials at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville today!