Holiday Travel Tips

October 28, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The holidays are here, and many people will take to the roads and skies to visit friends and family this season. Planning even a short trip requires a lot of thought and consideration beyond just ‘what to pack’. Preparing for a vacation in advance will make your trip smoother, easier, and more enjoyable.

Preparing Your Car For a Road Trip

There is little worse than going on a road trip, expecting days of fun and interesting sights, only to wind up on the side of the road with car problems. Preparing your car before the trip will greatly reduce your chance of becoming stranded.

Check your vehicle’s fluids. These include windshield washing fluid, coolant, brake and transmission fluid, and so on.
Check your hoses and belts. If there is any sign of wear or tear, it may be best to bring your car into a mechanic to get them replaced preemptively.
Make sure your tires are road-worthy. Too little tread can pose a danger to yourself and others. You also want to keep an eye out for any bulges or cracks in your tires, as these indicate that your tire needs replacing.
Visit your mechanic for a general check-up. Your mechanic is the best person to consult for a vehicle health overview, and can advise of any potential problems or issues that need to be addressed prior to a long road trip.

Must-Have Travel Apps

There are thousands of travel apps to choose from. These can range from directions, food, flight info, and more. You can find just about everything you can imagine in your device’s app store. Here are some must-have travel apps for your next trip.

Entrain

If you have a hard time adjusting to new time zones, then the Entrain app will be a great ally. Developed by the University of Michigan, this app calculates your trip destination, length, and body’s circadian rhythm to help determine the optimal sleeping schedule for you to adjust.

Waze

This must-have driving app makes great use of social networking while giving directions to your destination. Fellow ‘Wazers’, or people who are also using the Waze app in your area, update any traffic, accidents, or any other issues on the road in real time.

GasBuddy

There are few worse feelings than being in the middle of nowhere and seeing the gas indicator dip close to empty. GasBuddy tells you where the nearest gas stations are so you don’t have to sweat.

XE Currency

Travelling overseas this season? Convert your currency using live rates with XE Currency. Never again be stuck wondering how many yen your dollars are worth!

Tips for Travelling With Young Kids

Travelling with young kids can be a challenge in itself. Maximize the fun and enjoyment during the family vacation by doing some advance planning.

Book Extra Time: When you’re in a rush, it’s easy for everyone to get stressed. Leave for the airport early and allow for plenty of extra time. This helps give you some leeway for emergency bathroom breaks, snack time, and exploring new places.
Pack Smart Snacks: While choosing snacks for your children, remember that sugar-filled snacks will result in hyper kids on the plane or train. Savory snacks are a better bet to keep your kids from having a sugar rush.
Provide Entertainment: “Are we there yet?” will quickly get on any parent’s nerves! Download movies, shows, and kid-friendly games and apps to keep your children happy while in transit.
Plan Ahead: Book your hotel and flight in advance to avoid any last-minute surprises. If you need a crib or pack and play, call ahead to make sure that the airline or hotel has one ready for your arrival.
Remember The Medicine: Painkillers are a must-have for any accidental bumps or bruises while on the go. A small first aid kit with bandages, alcohol wipes, and antibiotic ointment will go a long way on any trip.

Travelling With the Family Pet

When travelling with your pet, it’s important to remember that not all pets like travelling as much as you do! Bringing items that comfort them and remind them of home can reduce stress in many pets.

Other items to bring when travelling with the family pet include…

Disposable kitty litter pans.
Plenty of doggie waste bags.
Foldable/collapsible water bowl – this saves space and can be brought on hikes or walks through new cities.
Bring their favorite toys and bed to comfort them.
Pack extra food, as the local pet shop may not carry your pet’s preferred type of food.
Microchip or ID tag your pet, or update your info on existing IDs. If they get lost, you’ll have a much greater chance of recovering them when your current contact info is on hand.

T3 Atlanta

If you’re going on a road trip this season, T3 Atlanta can help you ensure that your car is road-worthy. Don’t spend your vacation stranded on the side of the road! We specialize in Nissan, Toyota, Infiniti, and Lexus vehicles. Visit our Smyrna or Decatur location, both of which are convenient to the Atlanta area!

Winterizing Your Vehicle in Atlanta

October 10, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Atlanta is fortunate to have fairly moderate winters – at least for the most part. Winter storms have been known to leave snow and ice on city roads, wreaking havoc with traffic and causing damage to people, vehicles, and properties. By winterizing your vehicle before it’s snowing outside, you’ll help keep yourself and others safe this season.

How to Winterize Your Vehicle in 7 Steps

Even though Atlanta doesn’t have winters like the Northeast, it’s important to winterize your vehicle. The weather can be very unpredictable, and some winters are harsher than others. It’s best to be prepared just in case!

Engine Oil: The viscosity – or thickness – of your oil changes with the seasons. It is thinnest during the summer when temperatures are warm, and thickest when temperatures drop. This becomes a problem when oil becomes too thick to flow smoothly through your engine’s parts, potentially causing your engine to overheat. Changing your oil for one with lower viscosity will prevent this problem from occurring.
Add Antifreeze: Antifreeze keeps your engine cool and prevents the liquids inside from freezing. Make sure to use the correct ratio – 50:50 mixed with water – to keep your engine working properly this winter.
Check Your Batteries: Batteries are one of those engine features which are easy to forget about, especially since most batteries last between three to five years. It’s inconvenient when they go out during any season, but can be dangerous during the winter.
Inspect the Defrosters: Your vehicle’s defrosters are critical for visibility during winter. Make sure they are working properly so that you’ll be able to see every night of the year.
Tires and Tire Pressure: Your tire pressure changes depending on the season due to consistently hot or cold temperatures. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for your vehicle’s stability, braking ability. Improper tire pressure can even cause tire failure in some cases. Additionally, your tires should have an appropriate amount of tread so your vehicle has traction during poor weather. This amount will vary depending on the type of tire.
Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers: Replace your windshield wipers regularly. This will help prevent you from finding yourself in a snow or ice storm with wiper blades that can’t effectively keep ice and snow from accumulating on your windshield. Keeping your washer fluid full will help dislodge any snow or ice as well.
4WD: For vehicles with 4WD that can be engaged and disengaged, consider making sure that the system works before the first snow or ice storm arrives. Even if you decide not to repair a broken 4WD system, at least you won’t be caught unawares when you most need it!

Other Helpful Tips for Winter

In addition to winterizing your vehicle, you may want to consider these helpful winter driving tips.

Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. These supplies don’t take up a lot of room, and they’ll be incredibly helpful if you do wind up in a worst-case scenario during the winter. Kits generally contain flashlights, flares, jacks and tire inflators, jumper cables, and fluids. It’s also a good idea to keep an ice scraper on hand.

Store a spare pair of winter boots, a blanket, gloves, hat, and blanket in your backseat or trunk. These items will keep you warm and dry if you become stranded.

Keep your gas tank full during the winter, or at the very least, no less than half a tank. Not only do you run the risk of getting stranded if an ice storm locks up Atlanta, condensation can form on the inside of a mostly-empty gas tank and drip. This normally isn’t a huge problem, but if temperatures get to freezing, then any water which has made its way to the fuel lines can freeze and crack the lines.

Have your car inspected before and after the winter driving season. Belts and hoses can be worn out or have corrosion from any salt on the roads. It’s best to have any worn out parts replaced before they give out while you’re on the road.

T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is the premier auto shop for Infiniti, Toyota, Lexus, and Nissan vehicles. We perform routine maintenance as well as more in-depth repairs. Don’t be unprepared this winter driving season. Come visit us at our Smyrna or Decatur location, both of which are convenient to the Atlanta area.

Toyota Sienna Problems Every Owner Should Know

September 23, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Perfect for driving the junior sports team from game to game, the Toyota Sienna is a family-friendly van with plenty of space. While generally very reliable, this vehicle has had a few recalls and issues over the past decade.

Toyota Sienna Problems

The Toyota Sienna was not involved in either the Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall or the Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment Recall in 2009. The list below is not comprehensive, but addresses several of the largest issues from the past ten years. You can look up any recall notices for your vehicle by visiting Toyota’s recall website.

2004 – 2010 Melting Dashboard

Some Sienna models may experience a ‘melting dashboard’. When exposed to the sun for prolonged amounts of time, the dashboard may produce a sticky goo.

There is no current recall notice for this issue. Drivers in hot or sunny climates may find it helpful to purchase a sun shade for their vehicle’s front window.

1998 – 2011 Sienna Spare Tire Cable Corrosion

The spare tire on Siennas is located underneath the vehicle carriage. Toyota Siennas which were originally sold in cold climates, including Michigan, Connecticut, New York, etc,. are regularly exposed to salt from the roads during the winter. As a result, the cable connecting the spare tire to the vehicle is at risk for corrosion and detachment, leading to a greater risk of an accident.

The recall for this issue resolved the issue by removing the spare tire from beneath the vehicle and relocating it to the luggage compartment.

2004 – 2005 Engine

Certain Sienna models equipped with 1mz-fe or 3mz-fe engines may have an insufficient amount of adhesive applied to the crankshaft pulley’s outer ring and torsional rubber dampener. In some cases, the inner and outer rings can become misaligned and cause noise or a battery discharge warning lamp. In other cases, the power steering pump’s belt may detach from the pulley, leading to a loss of power steering.

This recall notice resolved the issue by replacing the crankshaft pulley.

2004 – 2005 and 2007 – 2009 Automatic Transmission

Sienna vehicles from 2004 – 2005 and 2007 – 2009 may have issues with the shift lever assembly so that it is possible that a parked vehicle could be moved into gear without depressing the brake pedal. This could result in potential rollaway issues.

The recall notice for this issue was resolved by replacing the solenoid shift lock in affected vehicles.

2013 Airbag Sensor

Certain vehicles with seat modifications by SET (Southeast Toyota Distributors), including leather seat covers and seat heaters, may not have had their occupant sensing system properly tested or recalibrated after installation. If these systems are not properly calibrated, the air bag may deploy at an improper rate for the passenger’s size and position.

The recall addresses the issue by testing potentially affected vehicle’s seat calibration, and adjusting the sensors if necessary.

2014 Automatic Transmission

The transmission shift cable in several 2014 Sienna vans may have a damaged protective cable sleeve. This can result in the control cable to separate when selecting gears, thus leading to the selected gear not matching the actual gear. The vehicle may wind up moving in an unintended direction, or roll away when in Park.

This recall notice fixes the issue by replacing the faulty transmission shift control cable.

2014 Fuel System

Toyota Siennas equipped with the 2GR-FE, 3.5-liter V6 engine are at risk of a possible fuel leak. The issue manifests itself in the insufficient welding on the end cap of one of the fuel delivery pipes. Fuel may leak from the pipe, and if in proximity of an ignition, could result in a vehicle fire.

The recall notice for this issue replaces the faulty fuel delivery pipe.

2015 2nd Row Overhead Grips

This issue affects Siennas equipped with overhead grips on the 2nd row of seats. In the event of a crash where the side curtain airbags are deployed, the overhead grips may detach and strike vehicle occupants.

This issue is resolved by adjusting the headliner near the overhead grips on the 2nd row.

T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is the premier auto repair shop for high quality and affordable repairs on Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infinity vehicles. Our technicians are highly trained and experienced to provide the best possible service for your vehicle.

Our locations in Smyrna and Decatur are very convenient to the Atlanta area. With more than 18 years’ experience, we can provide vehicle services for general maintenance as well as in-depth repairs!

Toyota Tacoma Problems That Could Put You At Risk

September 2, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The Toyota Tacoma is a great pickup truck for cruising around town, off-roading with friends, or just getting weekend around-the-house projects done! Reliable and utilitarian, it’s a wonderful option for active owners.

However, even the Toyota Tacoma has had a few well-documented problems over the past decade, including several recalls.

Toyota Tacoma Problems

Below, you’ll find a list of some of the largest Toyota Tacoma Problems over the past decade. This list is not comprehensive, but highlights some of the most common issues.

2005 – 2010 Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment

While the Tacoma was not involved in the Sticking Accelerator Pedal recall which affected millions of vehicles, this model was involved in the Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment recall which occurred around the same time.

The floor mat of 2005 – 2010 Tacomas can potentially interfere with the accelerator pedal, in worst-case scenarios becoming stuck in the open position. The recall adjusts the shape of the accelerator pedal. For vehicles with genuine Toyota or Lexus all-weather floor mats, the mats will be replaced with updated versions that will not interfere with the accelerator.

2005 – 2014 Driveline Vibration

Certain Tacoma owners may have found that their vehicle feels like it is shaking or shuddering when driving at low speeds – usually between 15 – 25 mph. This issue – T-SB-0008-14 – is still under investigation, although several notices have been issued to address the problem.

2005 – 2014 Leaf Spring Assembly

In certain models, the Leaf Spring Assembly may break due to corrosion or stress. This could result in the leaf moving while the vehicle is in motion, and possibly puncture the fuel tank. The punctured fuel tank greatly increases the risk of a fire occurring!

The recall for this issue installs new leaf spring assemblies.

2005 – 2011 Seat Belts on Tacoma Access Cab

Certain Tacoma Access Cab models had seat belt recalls. The screws fastening the seatbelt to the access cab door could become loose with repeated use. Over time, the seatbelt pre-tensioner and retractor spring cover may detach from the seatbelt retractor.

The recall addresses each vehicle individually. Depending on the results of the inspection, some vehicles will have a new seatbelt assembly installed. Others will have new screws installed with a thread-locking sealant, as well as a spring cover with ribs to prevent loosening, to resolve the issue.

2005 – 2009 Air Bags

Some 2005 – 2009 Tacomas may develop issues with the air bags on the driver’s side. The steering wheel’s vibration might cause damage to the cable assembly which is attached to the driver’s side air bag. The air bag light will illuminate on the dashboard in this case, and the air bag will not deploy in the event of a wreck.

The recall replaces the spiral cable assembly so that the airbag will deploy in case of a crash.

2013 – 2014 Engine

Certain 2013 – 2014 Tacoma models have been recalled for issues with the valve springs installed in some engines. The valve springs may wear out prematurely and break, causing engine failure and a stall while driving.

T3 Atlanta

T3 Atlanta is your shop for affordable, quality repairs on Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infinity vehicles. We use the same genuine parts and repair equipment as the dealer, and all work is performed by highly trained technicians who specialize in only Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infinity vehicles!

We have two locations around the Atlanta area for your convenience – Smyrna and Decatur. We are more than happy to service your vehicle for general maintenance as well as more in-depth auto repair! With more than 18 years’ experience, we’ll get you back on the road in no time!

5 Fall Car Care Tips That Won’t Leave You Stranded

August 19, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Car maintenance is an ongoing process throughout the year, and best when performed regularly. An emergency breakdown is inconvenient no matter what time of year, but can be especially problematic in the middle of a notorious Atlanta ice storm. Fall is the perfect time of year to prepare your car for the cold weather ahead. Start your preparations with these Fall car care tips!

5 Fall Car Care Tips

Atlanta may not have snowstorms like the Northeast, but ice storms can be just as dangerous. Checking that your car is winter-ready on an annual basis will help make sure that you are not left out in the cold with a preventable situation!

Fluids – Windshield washer fluid needs to be replaced with cold-weather friendly fluids. You can also add antifreeze to the reservoir. While your hood is up, check your coolant and add antifreeze if necessary. If accessible, check your brake fluid as well.

It’s important to add antifreeze, or make sure that your fluids are freeze-friendly. Liquid expands when frozen, and a cracked reservoir can lead to a bigger problem later.

Battery – Batteries are essential to all cars, but it’s easy to forget about them until they stop working! Check your batteries every fall to make sure that they aren’t corroding, and that the cable connections are securely in place. Since batteries don’t have power indicators, it’s usually best to replace them every 3 years regardless of performance.

Tires and Brakes – Tires with good tread are critical for dealing with snow or slush on the streets. While no amount of tread on a tire can help with ice, it’s much safer to go into the season with solid traction under your wheels. Brakes with plenty of padding left will help you stop faster in slick conditions, and keep you, your family, and other drivers on the road safer.

Don’t forget to check your spare tire if your vehicle has one! Make sure that it’s properly inflated and that all the equipment is in place. For cars where the spare tire is stored under the vehicle, check that the suspension cable mechanism is in good working order. If the cable is not working, you’ll need to have it repaired.

Windshield Wipers, Defrosters, and Heaters – Windshield wipers should be changed every year, and scheduling that change for the fall ensures that you get the most use out of them on an annual basis. Slush and ice can take a heavy toll on any wiper blades, so it’s best to go into the season with a fresh pair.

Defrosters and heaters are essential for any winter driving. Heaters keep you comfortable, while defrosters maintain maximum visibility.

Visit T3 Atlanta! Our skilled and experienced mechanics can help you get your Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti, or Nissan winter-ready by replacing or topping off fluids, replacing lights, and performing both routine and emergency care on your vehicle.

T3 Atlanta

Don’t be left out in the cold this Fall or Winter! You’ll help prevent a major headache later by making sure that your vehicle is winter-ready now. Call us at one of our two convenient Atlanta-area locations – Smyrna (404-794-7700) and Decatur (404-633-7722). We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have, or schedule an appointment!

Toyota Maintenance Required Light Helpful Information

August 5, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Warning lamp indicators are the last thing a car owner wants to see on their dashboard. With so many different symbols, it can be hard to tell what the particular glowing light means! Few lights, however, are more vague than the ‘MAINT REQD’, or, Toyota maintenance required light.

The Toyota ‘Maintenance Required’ Light – What Does it Mean?

The ‘Maintenance Required’ light on your Toyota is actually not a cause for concern!

This light is set to come on after a set number of miles, and doesn’t indicate an issue with the vehicle. In other words, it’s designed to keep you on your maintenance schedule!

The light is usually set to come on 5,000 miles after the last reset, and is a reminder for your vehicle to have an oil change.

If you’ve recently changed your oil and it came on after the fact, it’s possible that the technician simply forgot to reset it when they finished changing your vehicle’s oil.

Can I Reset the Toyota Maintenance Required Light?

You can reset the Maintenance Required light yourself, although this is not recommended unless you’ve already had your vehicle’s oil changed. The method will depend on the model, although the instructions below should reset the light for most Toyotas.

Turn your key to the ‘On’ position, but don’t start the vehicle.
Find the button used to toggle computer modes, and scroll to the Odometer (ODO) display.
Turn your key back to ‘Off’.
Push and hold the Trip Reset button (it may be the same button used to toggle between modes).
While holding down the Trip Reset button, turn your key back to ‘On’, but don’t start the vehicle. The display should populate with a set of dashes that will vanish one by one. A series of zeroes will replace them.
Continue holding the Trip Reset button until the zeroes have cleared, and the odometer reading reappears.

Your Maintenance Required light will now be reset.

Regular Oil Changes – Important or Not?

Oil changes may not seem like a big deal. In reality, this routine service can prolong the life of your engine and save you from possible expensive repairs!

Oil keeps your vehicle’s engine running smoothly and puts less strain on the moving parts. Oil also helps draw heat away from the combustion chamber, which can get quite hot – especially on long trips or during the summer!

Regular oil changes will also help prevent carbon from building up in your engine. Carbon buildups can lead to carbon deposits in the old oil. This turns into sludge, which in worst case scenarios can lead to pistons needing replacement, or a full engine cleaning.

By changing your oil regularly, you can keep your vehicle’s engine performing in top shape!

T3 Atlanta

If your Maintenance Required light is on, we can help! Whether you need your vehicle’s oil changed, or if you have any questions about your vehicle’s maintenance, call us at our Smyrna (404-794-7700) or Decatur (404-633-7722) locations. We look forward to helping you!

Toyota Acceleration Problems — What You Should Know

July 24, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

There are two separate Toyota acceleration problems at this moment in time: the Sticking Accelerator Pedal recall, and the Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment recall. Both issues can be deadly, and some vehicles are involved in both recalls. If your vehicle is involved in either of these recalls, you should have received a recall notice in the mail from the Toyota Motor Corporation. Complete lists of affected vehicles are provided below.

What is the Toyota Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall?

The Toyota Sticking Accelerator pedal recall was announced at the beginning of 2010. Several vehicles were involved in accidents where the accelerator pedal ‘stuck’ in a depressed position, causing the driver to be unable to control the vehicle’s speed.

The problem lies in a faulty friction device in the pedal. The friction device makes the pedal stable and adds the proper ‘feel’ resistance. However, due to wear and tear, the materials used, and environmental conditions, the throttle may begin to stick instead of operating as normal. After time, an accelerator pedal with this problem may become a hazard and stick so that the vehicle continues to accelerate even after the pedal is released.

Which Vehicles are Affected?

The following Toyota vehicles are affected in the Sticking Accelerator Pedal Recall:

2005-2010 Avalon
2007-2010 Tundra
2008-2010 Sequoia
2009-2010 Matrix
Certain 2007-2010 Camry
Certain 2010 Highlander
Certain 2009-2010 RAV4
Certain 2009-2010 Corolla

It is important to note that Camry, Highlander, RAV4, and Corolla vehicles whose VINs start with “J” are not affected. The VIN is the 17-character identification which is unique to every vehicle. You can find your VIN on the driver’s side, outside your vehicle at the very bottom of the windshield.

How is the Problem Fixed?

A steel reinforcement bar is installed into the accelerator pedal assembly, which reduces the surface tension in the pedal assembly. This eliminates the excess friction which causes certain pedals to stick. Toyota has thoroughly tested and confirmed that the steel reinforcement bars reinforce the pedal assemblies which had tendencies to stick. All costs of repairs are covered by Toyota.

What is the Toyota Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment Recall?

The Toyota Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment recall was announced at the end of 2009, following some reports that certain vehicles had been involved in accidents following unintended acceleration. Investigation showed that floor mats in some vehicles were incompatible, or were improperly installed or secured, causing the floor mat to interfere with the accelerator pedal and sometimes cause unintended acceleration.

Which Vehicles are Affected?

The following vehicles are involved in the Toyota Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment recall:

Toyota
2004 – 2009 Prius
2005 – 2010 Avalon
2005 – 2010 Tacoma
2007 – 2010 Camry
2007 – 2010 Tundra
2008 – 2010 Highlander
2009 – 2010 Corolla
2009 – 2010 Matrix
2009 – 2010 Venza

Lexus
2006 – 2010 IS 250
2006 – 2010 IS 350
2007 – 2010 ES 350

How is the Problem Fixed?

As a precaution, if you are an owner of one of the affected vehicles listed above, remove the driver’s side floor mat and do not install another one until Toyota has completed the recall work on your vehicle. When you take your vehicle to be repaired, you should expect one of two solutions.

Your vehicle’s accelerator pedal will be reconfigured regardless of the type of floor mat installed, and regardless of whether the floor mat is improperly secured. The Avalon, Camry, and ES350 models involved will require the floor surface underneath the floor mats to be reconfigured in order to optimize the space between the floor and the accelerator pedal.
If you have genuine Toyota or Lexus floor mats, you will be given newly-designed replacement floor mats which do not risk entrapment.

Additionally, Toyota will install a brake override system into involved Avalon, Camry, and Lexus IS250, IS350, and ES350 models. This is a separate precaution which forces the vehicle to respond to the brake only if both the gas and brake pedals are depressed at the same time.

Which Vehicles are Involved in Both Recalls?

Some vehicles are involved in both the Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment and Sticking Accelerator Pedal recalls:

Certain 2007-2010 Camry
Certain 2009-2010 Corolla
Certain 2010 Highlander
2005-2010 Avalon
2009-2010 Matrix
2007-2010 Tundra

Hybrid Camry and Highlander vehicles are not affected by either recall. Additionally, Camry, Corolla, and Highlanders with VINs which begin with “J” are not affected.

T3 Atlanta

If your vehicle is on either of these lists, and you suspect your vehicle may be affected by one of these recall notices, T3 Atlanta is more than happy to diagnose your vehicle’s problem. Your safety comes first! While we do not perform warranty work, we can answer any questions or concerns that you may have about the Toyota Floor Mat Pedal Entrapment and Sticking Accelerator Pedal recalls.

Toyota Prius Problems

July 10, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

The Toyota Prius is the perfect fit for many green-conscious consumers. Eco-friendly, efficient, and compact, many Prius owners enjoy their vehicles for hundreds of thousands of miles. But even the best of cars can have issues. Here’s a year-by-year listing of the biggest documented Toyota Prius Problems from 2006 – 2009.

2006 Toyota Prius Problems

Headlights may short, causing headlights to work sporadically, or flicker instead of going out at the end of life.
Side airbags may have issues with the wire harness, or stored with problematic codes.
Tire pressure sensors may have activation and warning diagnostic issues.
Extremely cold weather causes multiple problems – illuminated warning lights; vehicle will not shift out of park; accessories inoperative.
Battery cooling fan can develop a buildup of dust or debris which can cause the fan to become less efficient.
A warning indicator lamp may turn on in some vehicles which are in “Ready On” position with transaxle in park for extended periods.
ABS/VSC and brake warning indicator lamps turn on when there is no issue due to overly sensitive monitoring systems.
In uncommon circumstances, transmission may slip or fail prematurely.

2007 Toyota Prius Problems

ABS/VSC and brake warning indicator lamps turn on when there is no issue due to overly sensitive monitoring systems.
A warning indicator lamp may turn on in some vehicles which are in “Ready On” position with transaxle in park for extended periods.
Combination meter display fails to illuminate during startups in extremely cold conditions.
Battery cooling fan indicator lamp may turn on because of buildup of dust or debris in the cooling fan, resulting in less efficient cooling.
Extremely cold weather causes multiple problems – illuminated warning lights; vehicle will not shift out of park; accessories inoperative.
Headlights flicker instead of going out at the end of life.
Side airbags may have issues with the wire harness, or stored with problematic codes.

2008 Toyota Prius problems

ABS/VSC and brake warning indicator lamps turn on when there is no issue due to overly sensitive monitoring systems.
Extremely cold weather causes multiple problems – illuminated warning lights; vehicle will not shift out of park; accessories inoperative.
Combination meter display fails to illuminate during startups in extremely cold conditions.
Battery cooling fan indicator lamp may turn on because of buildup of dust or debris in the cooling fan, resulting in less efficient cooling.
Some vehicles may display a malfunction indicator light following diagnostic codes from the Hybrid Battery Pack/System.
Headlights may flicker instead of going out at the end of life.
Side airbags may have issues with the wire harness, or stored with problematic codes.

2009 Toyota Prius problems

ABS/VSC and brake warning indicator lamps turn on when there is no issue due to overly sensitive monitoring systems.
Extremely cold weather causes multiple problems – illuminated warning lights; vehicle will not shift out of park; accessories inoperative.
Battery cooling fan indicator lamp may turn on because of buildup of dust or debris in the cooling fan, resulting in less efficient cooling.
Some vehicles may display a malfunction indicator light following diagnostic codes from the Hybrid Battery Pack/System.
Headlights may flicker instead of going out at the end of life.
Side airbags may have issues with the wire harness, or stored with problematic codes.

T3 Atlanta

Like any other vehicle, hybrid autos need regular maintenance in order to keep performing well. The main difference lies in the battery. The Toyota Prius battery needs extra care so that the vehicle does not suffer low acceleration, a decrease in mileage, or stuttering at mid to low speeds. T3 Atlanta does not work on the Prius Hybrid Drive, but does perform normal service.

At T3 Atlanta, we are Toyota Specialists and Hybrid Repair Experts, and have 18 years’ experience performing both routine and emergency maintenance work on vehicles. Whether you need routine brake replacement, or far more in-depth engine work, we can get your Toyota up and running again.
We have two Metro Atlanta area locations for your convenience!

Smyrna
5322 South Cobb Drive
Smyrna, GA 30080
404.794.7700

Decatur
2346-B Lawrenceville Hwy
Decatur, GA 30033
404.633.7722

What Does the Service Engine Soon Light Mean on a Nissan

June 21, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

You are cruising down the road without a care in the world, and suddenly the bright yellow service engine soon light comes on in your dashboard display. So many thoughts begin to run through your mind. What is causing the light to come on? Is there a major problem with my vehicle? How soon should I take my car to the mechanic? What is this going to cost me?

What does the service engine soon light mean on a Nissan?

Meaning of the Service Engine Soon Light

The service engine soon light is often mistaken for the check engine light. The check engine light is a light to warn you to a possible issue with your exhaust system or emissions system. The service engine soon light can come on for minor issues like a loose gas cap, or for more major problems such as possible engine failure.

Your Service Engine Soon Light Should Not Cause You to Panic

The light does say service engine soon, but you may not necessarily have to make any major repairs soon. One thing you can do right away is make sure all of your fluids are topped-off. This includes your engine oil, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid as well as transmission fluid. Physically inspect your car to check for any leaks, wear or signs of damage. A vehicle with leaky fluid is usually not safe for driving and should be repaired immediately.

Diagnose the Issue

You will want to diagnose the issue right away to make sure there is not a serious problem with the engine. If the service engine soon light is flashing, you should to cease driving immediately in order to avoid doing any further damage to your engine and take your car to a service center. A service technician can hook up a code reader to your vehicle’s computer to diagnose any potential problems. Once the diagnostic code is known, you or your mechanic can consult your owner’s manual or service manual to find out exactly what the issue is.

T3 Atlanta Auto Repair

When the service engine soon light comes on it can put a damper on your day, but oftentimes the issue is not a major one. The best thing to do is take your vehicle to a skilled and reliable mechanic to diagnose the problem and leave any repairs to an expert technician.

Visit a T3 Atlanta location to diagnose the issue with your Nissan or other imported vehicle free of charge! We have two convenient locations in Smyrna and Decatur. Our highly skilled import auto mechanics have over 20 years of experience working on Nissan, Lexus, Infiniti and Toyota vehicles. If you are having car problems, or if you need to schedule an appointment for routine maintenance, call T3 Atlanta today!

Toyota Recall–What You Should Know

June 12, 2015 by t3atlanta Leave a Comment

Takata Airbag Recall

The Takata airbag manufacturer has recently issued a recall notice for a dozen vehicle brands that are affected by faulty airbags, including a Toyota recall.

The recall comes after issues with the internal deflator and propellant devices, which may deploy improperly and shoot shrapnel into the vehicle’s occupants. Over two million vehicles are affected.

We’ve compiled a couple of great sources which you can use to determine if your vehicle is affected by this recall.

Here is a quick informative video by Consumer Reports explaining the Takata airbag issue:

Helpful Toyota Recall Websites

Car And Driver Blog

First is the Car and Driver blog, which features a comprehensive list of makes and model years and does not require you to have your VIN on hand, is found HERE.

caranddriver_recall_info

Safercar.gov

The second resource, from safercar.gov, determines if your specific vehicle is affected. This website will also cover any recalls over the past fifteen years.

You will need to have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on hand. This number is usually found on the driver’s hand side at the bottom of your windshield, or inside your driver’s side door. Check your vehicle’s manual if you are unable to locate your VIN.

Once you have your VIN handy, simply input the number into the box on the safercar.gov website. The website will display all current recall notices for your vehicle.

Recall How To

What You Should Do

If you think that your car has Takata airbags and is included in this recall, contact T3 Atlanta for assistance.

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