Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a Vehicle

Why Are Our Prices Different?

If you're reading this, you are likely in the market for a new car and doing a lot of research. Depending on where you are looking, you may have noticed multiple prices for the same vehicle. For instance, TV commercials may advertise a 2018 Toyota Corolla differently than the pricing you may see on a website. This may lead to some confusion but the reason is pretty simple.

Many commercials will only show you the MSRP of the vehicle (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price). The MSRP is set by the Manufacturer, in this case Toyota, as a suggested price to sell the vehicle at and is the only price that legally has to be shown. However, at Don Valley North Toyota, we want to be up front about our prices, which is why we choose to include all fees in our pricing.

What Do Our Prices Include?

*All pricing shown is for the base trim for all models

In Ontario, all dealers must advertise their pricing according to OMVIC (Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council) regulations. One of those laws is, we must advertise the "All-In Price", which is MSRP (Manufacturers Suggested Retailing Price) plus all applicable fees and levies such as Freight & PDI, the Environment Handling FeeOMVIC Fees and Tire Levies. Not all advertising always complies with this law and sometimes you will just see MSRP Advertised. All dealers will charge the "All-In Price", but you might not know that until you're sitting at the negotiation table.

At Don Valley North Toyota, it has always been our policy to be upfront, honest and clear about our pricing. See the graphic above for a complete breakdown of pricing.

In Canada, we're pretty used to paying more than the price we see on a price tag. In Ontario, sales tax is now 13%, meaning whatever the price you see is, add 13% to it for your final price. But when you are looking at buying a new car, you'll usually see a set of fees that you hadn't seen before.

What the fees are called might vary depending on the dealership, but most often they'll be called "delivery and destination" or "freight and PDI." But what does that even mean? What are these fees and why do you have to pay them?

Freight

Freight, or destination, is the charge for getting the vehicle from the factory to the dealership. This could involve shipping the vehicle from across an ocean, driving a vehicle across the country or packing something up a bit more delicately. Manufacturers set the freight price based on the nameplate for the vehicle, so no matter where you are, you'll pay the same price. Many vehicles are not manufactured in Canada, so this set fee ensures that even if the vehicle is shipped from somewhere overseas like Japan, you'll still pay that price. These costs are also standard across the country, so someone in B.C. will be paying the same fee as someone in Ontario. This fee will usually be higher with bigger and more luxurious vehicles, as the cost to transport them will be much higher than a regular sized vehicle.

PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection)

PDI, or delivery, is the charge for a technician at the dealership to inspect the car to make sure it has no cosmetic or mechanical issues. Just because a vehicle is brand new from the factory, doesn't mean it's ready for you to take home. It's also for the wash crew to run the vehicle through the car wash and make sure the car is presentable for the new owner. They'll also apply any final touches they need such as filling up the gas tank and topping up fluids.

All-In Pricing

While the MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) is the most common price you'll see in many commercials and advertisements directly from a manufacturer, that price doesn't show the whole picture. At WEINS Auto Group, we practice something called "All-In Pricing." This means that the price we advertise includes the MSRP plus all fees, except for HST and licensing. So the prices you see on any of our dealer websites include the freight and PDI fees. This practice makes it easier for you as a customer to know exactly what you're going to be paying for a new car.

No. All retail sales transactions of Toyota vehicles are processed directly through Toyota dealerships in Canada, so you must contact a Toyota dealer. Toyota Canada is the distributor of new Toyota vehicles in Canada and is responsible for the warranties of these vehicles.
An appraisal is an evaluation of a vehicle, which represents a dealer's assessment of what the dealership would be willing to pay you for your vehicle. This offer to purchase may be contingent on your purchase of another vehicle from the dealership.
To find the trade-in value of your vehicle, go to Appraise Your Trade-In, and enter your information.
Yes. If you wish to trade in your vehicle, your selected dealership must conduct an appraisal of this vehicle. However you can get an estimate of your trade online using our Appraise Your Trade-In tool.
There may be costs involved with selling your vehicle privately. Many customers find that the convenience of trading in their currently owned vehicle, plus the tax savings it provides on the new vehicle purchase, provide a benefit when compared to the time requirements, financial costs (such as advertising, vehicle repairs), and hassle, of selling a vehicle privately.
Canadian Black Book is a highly regarded and extensively used independent third party organization, specializing in the valuation of used automobiles in Canada. Toyota is pleased to present you with this third party data as a reference in estimating the value of your current vehicle. The actual cash value of a trade-in vehicle can only be determined through an appraisal at a participating Toyota dealership.
Dealerships are busy at different times of the day and week. Although every attempt is made to staff accordingly, there may be occasions when a customer is required to wait to speak with a Product Advisor. By pre-booking your appointment, you are assured that a Product Adviser will be available to help you at a time that best suits your schedule.
It's probably in your best interest NOT to use your Line of Credit to pay for your vehicle. Some important reasons why: 1. Floating interest rate - fluctuates with the prime rate. 2. The bank has the right to withdraw money from your account to pay for your line of credit. 3. Secured lines of credit use your home as collateral. Default of payment for any reason allows the bank to take your home. 4. The bank may require the total balance of your line of credit paid in full if you die, become insolvent or bankrupt. 5. If the bank sees any increase in risk to the security they can demand full payment. 6. Home insurance costs may be higher due to the additional line of credit.
The Environmental Handling Fee is comprised of two portions: 1) Stewardship Ontario Oil Filter Fee and 2) Stewardship Ontario Tire Fee. The Stewardship Ontario Oil Filter Fee is either $0.50, or $1.00 depending on the size of the filter. Filters <8" in diameter carry a charge of $0.50, and Filters >=8" in diameter carry a charge of $1.00. The Stewardship Ontario Tire Fee is $5.84 for each commercial tire. If your vehicle comes with 5 tires, the total fee would be $29.20. Together these are referred to as an EHF Fee, and commonly comes to a total of $30.20.

OMVIC stands for Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council. OMVIC's mandate is to maintain a fair, safe and informed marketplace by protecting the rights of consumers, enhancing industry professionalism and ensuring fair, honest and open competition for registered motor vehicle dealers.

Dealers are required to remit $5 for applicable transactions as of February 1, 2008. The applicable date for determining whether a particular transaction is subject to the transaction fee is the date the agreement with the customer was entered into (i.e. not the date the vehicle is delivered or the date registration is transferred to the customer).

The Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council enforces the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA).

"As the regulator of motor vehicle sales in Ontario, OMVIC's mandate is to maintain a fair, safe and informed marketplace by protecting the rights of consumers, enhancing industry professionalism and ensuring fair, honest and open competition for registered motor vehicle dealers.

It's important car buyers understand the protections and rights they have depends entirely upon whom they buy from. Consumers who purchase from registered dealers are protected by OMVIC and are entitled to full disclosure and all-in pricing. Consumers who buy privately have NO protection; no consumer law covers private transactions."

For full information on OMVIC please see this website.

An excise tax of $100 is payable for vehicles with air conditioning that are purchased in Canada or imported from the United States. This tax is payable to CBSA at the border when the vehicle is permanently imported into Canada.

Excise tax (Green Levy) on fuel inefficient cars

This tax is applicable to vehicles purchased in Canada or imported from the United States and is applied to a passenger vehicle if it:

  • is a car, SUV or van with a weighted average fuel consumption of 13 litres per 100 km or higher, and
  • was put into service after March 19, 2007.

Vehicles are taxed, based on weighted average fuel consumption, at the following rates:

  • At least 13, but less than 14 litres per 100 km: $1,000
  • At least 14, but less than 15 litres per 100 km: $2,000
  • At least 15, but less than 16 litres per 100 km: $3,000
  • 16 or more litres per 100 km: $4,000

MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price.

MSRP is an acronym that stands for manufacturer's suggested retail price. Manufacturers (i.e. Audi) use MSRP as a base price to give retailers their estimated value of a product. This is not the usually the actual price of an item, but rather what the manufacturer suggests as the maximum price that the item could be expected to sell for.

Dealers, are free to offer the vehicle for a lesser price, but never more on a new retail vehicle.

MSRP generally does not include additional trim levels, options, accessories, Freight, PDI, administration fees, or taxes.

MSRP Definition / MSRP Means

The definition of MSRP is "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price"

The Meaning of MSRP

MSRP means "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

An Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) is a document that certifies a vehicle's fitness. You can buy and register a vehicle without a safety certificate, but you cannot put your own plates on the vehicle or drive it without one. Any inspection station in Ontario licensed by the Ministry of Transportation can issue a Safety Standards Certificate, provided your vehicle passes an inspection.

A Safety Standards Certificate is valid for 36 days after the inspection. However, the certificate is not a guarantee or warranty that the vehicle will stay fit for any period.

What is a Safety Standard Certificate (SSC)?

An SSC is a certificate that is issued by a government- approved Motor Vehicle Inspection Station (MVIS) after a vehicle passes an inspection. This inspection covers the minimum safety requirements for vehicles in the province of Ontario.

When do I require an SSC?

An SSC is required when:

  • registering a rebuilt motor vehicle;
  • transferring a used motor vehicle to a new owner as fit;
  • registering a motor vehicle in Ontario that was previously registered in another province or country;
  • changing the status of a vehicle from unfit to fit.

Is an SSC a warranty on my vehicle purchase?

An SSC is not a warranty or guarantee on the general condition of the vehicle. The SSC only certifies that on the date it was issued, the vehicle met the minimum safety standards as set down by Regulation 611 of Ontario's Highway Traffic Act (HTA).

How long is an SSC valid for?

For the purposes of transferring ownership, an SSC is valid for 36 days from the day that the SSC was issued.

Buying a used vehicle can be a very stressful experience. In any situation where you're spending so much money, you want to be sure you have all the information available on what you are buying to make the best decision you can. You don't want to go on just what you've been told - you want impartial, thorough, accurate, and timely data. As well, not only do CarProof reports protect your wallet, but most importantly, having this information helps protect your family from the possibility of purchasing a vehicle that could be unsafe.

From accident information to fire damage, from liens to registration information: CarProof reports are the most detailed and complete vehicle history reports available to you. Unlike our competitors, CarProof reports offer all this and more:

Real-time Data

CarProof is electronically connected "live" to their data sources. This means that data is always current. Other services purchase periodic data dumps that will often miss information that we capture.

Cross-Canada Guaranteed Lien Info

CarProof is the only service that provides consumers with guaranteed cross-Canada lien search information. CarProof is connected live to each provincial and territorial Registrar responsible for maintaining these records. Other vehicle history report companies, including Carfax, do not report any Canadian vehicle lien information. Further, only CarProof offers a guarantee regarding enforceable liens.

Accident Data

CarProof has access to critical accident data that will allow you to make a more informed decision when buying or selling a used vehicle.

Registration & Branding

CarProof is the only service that is available to consumers providing critical real-time registration and branding information. This information discloses in which province or territory a vehicle is and/or was registered and what brand is associated with the vehicle (stolen, salvage, rebuilt, non-repairable, normal, etc.).

Full U.S. History

CarProof provides consumers with data from one of the largest U.S.-based vehicle history services. Through our connection to Experian Automotive's 2 billion+ record database, all of our reports include the data you would get from other popular U.S.-based vehicle history report services, but we also include important auction declaration information that others do not.

An AS-IS vehicle is unfit, not e-tested and is not represented as being in road worthy condition, mechanically sound or maintained at any guaranteed level of quality. The vehicle may not be fit for use as a means of transportation and may require substantial repairs at the purchaser's expense. It may not be possible to register the vehicle to be driven in its current condition.

Financing

Simple Interest financing is the consumer friendly way to calculate interest. Like the name implies, the concept is simple. If you pay a day early, you are credited for a day's interest. If you pay a day late, you pay a day's interest.

Here is an example that shows the difference in your monthly payment depending on whether you lease or finance your vehicle.

Lease Loan
Term 48 Months 48 Months
Interest Rate 7.95% 6.95%
Selling Price $ 18,000.00 $ 18,000.00
Taxes* N/A $ 2,340.00
Selling Price $ 18,000.00 $ 20,340.00
Lease End Value $ 9,000.00 N/A
Base Payment $ 277.29 N/A
Taxes on Payment* $ 36.05 N/A
Total Payment $ 313.34 $ 486.59

The MSRP and rates used above are approximate and used only as an example. Please see your Dealer for current finance and lease rates.

*Taxes (GST & PST) are 13% in this example.

Lease

  1. New car, all the time. Leasing a car means you always get to drive around in a nice new car. For many people, this is an emotional boost that can't be ignored. If you love cars and driving, this is a big perk.
  2. Less maintenance issues. Because you're always driving a newer car, you usually don't have to deal with the regular maintenance issues that car owners face as their vehicles age. You turn in your car before all those problems start showing up (e.g. worn rotors or slipping transmission). If you lead a very busy life, or you're on the road a lot, this is one less stress you have to deal with.
  3. Leases are tax deductible for small businesses. If you're self-employed, commissioned sales or you own a business, you can write off your lease as a business expense. This means up to 80% depending on usage and mileage driven.
  4. "Afford" a nicer car. If you've ever wondered how it is that so many people can afford to drive an ***CAR1*** or ***CAR2***, then wonder no more. According to LeaseGuide.com, around 75% of all luxury cars are leased. The reason is because banks don't like to loan out more than $30,000 for a car loan. If you want a car that's worth more than that and you don't have the money to make up the difference, leasing is your only option. On the upside, your monthly payment will be lower than if you actually bought a car. Leasing allows you to "afford" a nicer car than you'd get if you had to buy it.
  5. Few upfront costs. Speaking of costs, leasing allows you to get into a car with very few "upfront" costs. You often don't need a down payment (or if you do, it's fairly low), your monthly payments are lower, and your sales tax is going to be a lot lower since you only have to pay tax on the value of the car you actually used. According to Edmunds.com, this means that during the life of your lease, you're going to pay roughly half the sales tax you would if you bought the car.
  6. Cost of Interest. The cost of interest on a lease is equal to 1% less on a finance. This because on a finance you are paying interest on the tax you paid up front for the purchase. The lease only calculates the interest on the cost of the car and tax is paid on the monthly payment.
  7. Residual value. This is the value of the car or truck at the end of the lease. An inflated residual value lowers your monthly payments, but it can also handcuff you. A more realistic residual value will make it easier to sell the lease, trade your vehicle in the middle of the lease or buy the vehicle at the end of the lease. The more realistic the residual value the more options you have during and at the end of the lease
  8. Buy what appreciates. Regardless of the car you choose it will lose value over its lifetime. Use your cash to pay down high interest debt, pay down your mortgage or top up your RRSP. All will save you money and in the case of your mortgage or RRSP increase your net worth. A car is a bad way to invest your money. Lease the car, pay for the usage and then decide if you want to keep it by buying it out or replacing it. Lots of options and your money is still at work for you.
  9. Cash Flow. For the same cost of a car loan, leasing provides a lower monthly payment. With the rising cost of gas, maintenance and insurance you can have your car payment, insurance and some of you gas or maintenance for the cost of a monthly loan payment.
  10. Flexibility. Long term loans stretch your borrowing, thus locking you in for a longer period. Leasing allows you to turn your car over in a shorter time. Or if you have a career or lifestyle change you simply pay of the difference between the lease payout and the cars value to move the car or get into a new one. A properly structured lease will give you the options you need if required.

An open lease is for someone who wants a lower residual value or who is looking to lease and then buy their car. The lessee guarantees the residual value. Closed end leasing allows you to lease with a specific mileage allowance and return the car at the end of the lease if you at or under this mileage with no additional cost. You are responsible for excess wear and tear on a closed end lease.

We allow you to trade in your lease for a new or preowned vehicle. We also offer lease extensions or you may buyout your lease.

Not usually We want your business so we do not charge an administration fee. Usual charges are first payment , licensing, OMVIC, PPSA and Tire Levy

The insurance company will settle the claim based on the mileage and market value of the car, like they would if you financed. In most cases the settlement will payout the vehicle. But if you have higher mileage then you may have to pay some money. Usually the deductible is payable. On new cars insurance companies offer a waiver of depreciation coverage that will pay off the replacement value of vehicle. This coverage will vary from 18 months to 60 months depending on the company. Ask your broker for this on all new lease vehicles.

Leasing is just an alternative form of financing a vehicle. Instead of paying your loan to zero the residual value is set for the vehicle. This residual value usually reflects the future value based on a specific mileage. For example a lease will allow 24,000 km per year and the residual value will be set for this mileage. You then have the option at the end of the lease to buyout your lease, return it if it is under mileage or extend your lease till you buy it or trade it for a newer model.

Most leases allow for you to negotiate the selling price or capital cost of the lease.

You can trade in your owned, financed or leased vehicle against a new lease. Remember that if you have a finance or lease the trade value will need to cover paying out the vehicle. A fully owned vehicle will act as a down payment with the benefit of saving you the HST on its value. Any equity in a financed or leased vehicle will also act as a down payment toward your new lease.

A down payment is paid to lower the amount being leased, thus lowering your monthly payment , residual value or both. The amount due at signing (or Payable at Delivery) will include the down payment plus tax and any other amounts due. These may include first payment, security deposit, licensing and any other miscellaneous costs

If you would like to end your lease early our dealership can assist you with either buying out or trading in your lease. To do this, a buyout amount will be calculated, a buyout is simply what you owe on your lease. If your vehicle is worth more than you owe you can put that equity towards your next vehicle. If it is worth less than you owe will have to cover that shortfall by either paying the amount, or adding it to your next lease.

When you purchase a vehicle you pay all the tax up front. When you lease a vehicle you pay the tax on the monthly payment.

Your insurance will cover a temporary driver that has the lessee's permission. If someone is driving the vehicle regularly you may need to add them to the insurance as a secondary driver

Not all leasing companies are licensed to do business in other provinces. So you may need to either return your lease and settle your lease or have someone take over your lease.

Every lease has a predetermined mileage allowance. You will be responsible for any mileage over your allowance. So always make sure you negotiate enough mileage to cover your driving habits. I t can be expensive to pay it at the end of the lease in one lump sum verses paying a little more each month on your lease.

Yes, you will have a payout that needs to be covered on your lease. If your vehicle is worth the same or more than the payout you are good but if it is worth less you will have to pay out the difference. Some leasing companies will allow you to add this deficiency to a new lease. This will vary from brand to brand.

Not all leasing companies offer used car leasing. WCL will lease used cars dependent on the age and mileage.

In Ontario full disclosure leasing is a law. Your interest rate will be displayed on your contract for you to see.

Your lease may show up like any other payment obligation or it may just show up as a lien on your credit file

The residual value is part of the lease calculation so you will know the residual value when you negotiate your lease

A money factor is not used very much with most leasing companies preferring to show the APR on their lease. You can ask what the interest rate is being used to calculate your lease. WCL will show this on any quote it provides

In a loan you pay interest on the total amount financed or lease. So you will pay interest on the total amount of the lease not the difference between the amount financed and the residual value. This is the same basic premise as a loan or mortgage.

You can lease a vehicle for as little as 12 months and as much as 60 months depending on your need and your budget.

In Ontario there are no lemon laws. There is an arbitration process that you can follow if you have a problem vehicle. All automotive manufacturers cover this in their warranty information

You are required to have full insurance coverage on a lease, no different than a bank finance, this means liability, collision and comprehensive coverage.

Yes you can buy extra mileage up front, we allow for mileages up to 50,000 km per year. It is cheaper to pay them up front than at the end of the lease.

A down payment is usually used to lower the monthly payment. This means you will have used up the down payment over the term. If you paid a security deposit you may be entitled to get this back at the termination of your lease

Yes you may be able either refinance or release your lease. We offer both options.

If you can claim any portion of your vehicle for business then you may be able to write off your lease. Check with your accountant to be sure.

With interest rate so low you may want to explore both options and see what will give the best payment. A longer term finance even at a lower rate can cost more than a shorter term lease.

Right here! Canadian Black Book can give you an approximate value of your trade in. Accident claims, wear and tear and market conditions will affect this value.

Right now! Leasing a vehicle is a great idea any time. You could argue that the BEST time may be 5 minutes to closing time, on New Years Eve, during a snow storm. But the real answer is anytime.

The better brands have a good resale value. They will give you the best lease value as they will have a higher residual value.

This will vary by manufacturer but the bets are the brands with higher resale values( Toyota and Lexus are good examples). They provide good value any time.

Parts

Genuine Toyota parts and accessories are sold through our Parts Department. Our Parts Personnel can determine the availability and price of the parts and accessories required, and can assist in the processing of your order.
Toyota selects tire size and grade to match the specifications of the vehicle to optimize ride comfort and handling. When replacing a tire, you should select one of equal size and grade to the original tire and in accordance with loading requirements. Snow tires are recommended in regions where harsh winter conditions exist. You should also select snow tires that are comparable to the original tires on your vehicle. Changing the tire size can affect the vehicle's ride comfort and handling performance and may also affect the operation of features such as the speedometer or odometer. Toyota recommends that all four tires, or at least both of the front or rear tires, be replaced as a set. When a tire is replaced, the wheel should always be balanced. Consult with your local Toyota dealer for additional information on suitable tires for your driving needs
There may be differences between genuine Toyota filters and aftermarket filters. Genuine Toyota filters are designed and engineered to fit Toyota vehicles specifically and to maintain the filtration of dirt or particles within the oil to match the recommended oil change interval of 8000 km. Aftermarket filters may not have the same fit or be manufactured to the same standards as genuine Toyota filters and may cause engine concerns.
No. Non-Genuine Toyota Parts, or any damage or failures resulting from their use, are not covered by any Toyota warranty. Only Genuine Toyota Parts and Accessories are covered by the Toyota Replacement Parts and Accessories Warranties.
If your seatbelt fits too snugly, please contact our Service & Parts Department to obtain a seatbelt extender. For details, please schedule an appointment with your dealer who will explain the seatbelt procedure and take your measurement to ensure a proper fit and positioning of the seatbelt

Service

Club Toyota is a complimentary on-line service for owners/lessees of Toyota vehicles of model year 1996 or newer.

For information on Club Toyota, visit www.clubtoyota.ca. On the Club Toyota Login page, click on "Learn more about Club Toyota" to take a guided tour of Club Toyota.

There are two ways for new members to register in Club Toyota:

  1. Click on the Register Now button and perform a New User registration. On the Registration page, enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and other required information. Your VIN can be found on your vehicle insurance document, your vehicle registration, on top of the dash of your vehicle, or on the driver's side door of your vehicle.
  2. Use the computer-generated temporary User ID and Password provided to you when you complete the online survey with a link provided in a welcome letter sent to you after the purchase or lease of a new vehicle.
Our dedicated Toyota Service Advisors will recommend services based on the Maintenance Menu set by the manufacturer. By following your vehicle's service schedule, you will ensure your warranty coverage and prolong the life of your vehicle. Our factory-trained Technicians work on Toyota's all day, every day. They are familiar with every Toyota model and use Toyota Genuine Parts to provide optimal performance
This service helps avoid potential no-start conditions which are a concern to owners due to the inconvenience caused by such a failure, especially given our extreme weather conditions. Batteries should last for years but slow engine cranking or dim headlights are a sign that your battery requires attention.

Proper alignment and wheel balance maximizes your vehicle's ride and handling performance while preventing unnecessary tire and suspension wear, which means fewer replacements later on.

The Check Engine Light is an indicator from your engine computer that something is not right. It covers a wide range of issues that could be as minor as loose gas cap to more serious issues like a malfunctioning oxygen or mass airflow sensor. As long as your vehicle feels normal it is safe to drive, however you should have it inspected as soon as possible. If the vehicle is not driving normally, say the engine is shaking or vibrating, you may consider having it towed to the dealership to prevent any further damage or to prevent being left stranded on the road.
A recall or campaign is released when there is a safety related issue on your vehicle. Recalls are fully covered under warranty so any replacement of parts or service updates will be completed at no charge. Recall notifications are sent to owners by registered mail.
Some vehicles do not have timing belts because they are equipped with a timing chain. You can check your vehicle's Maintenance Menu to see if timing belt replacement is recommended or you can contact the dealer for advice.
Environmental conditions, driving habits or poor quality gasoline can cause build-up in your vehicle's fuel and combustion systems, compromising both fuel economy and performance. The service cleans and eliminates contaminants and deposits in the combustion chambers and on intake and exhaust valves.
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic brake applications in automobiles to provide optimal braking performance. Brake fluid is used to transfer force under pressure from where it is created through hydraulic lines to the braking mechanism near the wheels. It also lubricates braking system components and prevents corrosion of metal brake lines.
Brake pads are a critical part of your braking system. Pads are designed to wear with use and the rate of wear depends on usage and loads. Constant exposure to the elements may result in rust build-up, which can cause brake dragging, pulling, pulsating and/or abnormal noise. Regular lubrication and cleaning of braking system components helps ensure proper function as well as reduce premature wear and noise while braking. If brakes drag, pull, pulsate or produce abnormal noise, see your dealer immediately.
Due to the added forces of friction when braking and turning, your front tires will usually wear at a faster rate than the rear tires. Regularly rotating your tires will help you achieve more uniform wear and increases the useful life of all four tires.
Engine air filter prevents harmful particles from entering your engine and causing damage. Air filters eventually become clogged with trapped particles and as a result this will reduce engine performance. A clogged filter starves your engine for air, reducing fuel economy and increasing emissions.

Vehicle

Please remember, daytime running lights (DRL) are a safety feature that can help make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. This is especially helpful in the periods right after dawn and before sunset to increase visibility to other motorists.

If your vehicle is equipped with a "DRL OFF" setting, they can be turned off by twisting the headlight control knob to "DRL OFF."

For vehicles listed below equipped with DRL, the system can be disabled by your local Toyota dealership. Be aware that models equipped with the Automatic Headlamp feature will default to a standard or manual headlight function and will no longer turn the headlamps on automatically after this modification.Please contact your local Toyota dealership for details.

For all other models equipped with DRL, Toyota does not recommend any modifications.

Model Year
4Runner 2000
Avalon 1999-2000
Camry* 1999-2000
Celica* 2000
Corolla* 1999-2000, 2009-2010
Echo 2000
Land Cruiser* 1999-2000
MR2 Spyder 2000
RAV4 1999-2000
Sienna 1999-2000
Solara* 1999-2000
Tacoma 2000
Tundra 2000

*Vehicles equipped with the Automatic Headlamp feature

A few simple tips for the first 1,600 km can add to the future economy and long life of your new Toyota. These tips can be found in your Owner's Manual. Refer to the index for the exact page location.

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is displayed:

  1. On the driver's side dashboard near or under the bottom portion of the windshield
  2. On the ownership registration card
  3. On your vehicle insurance card
  4. On the certification label found on the driver's side doorjamb on most vehicles
The Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, is a sequence of 17 alphanumeric characters used to uniquely identify your vehicle. The VIN on vehicles purchased prior to 1992 may consist of fewer digits. Toyota VINs beginning with "2" indicate vehicles assembled in Canada. Vehicles with VINs beginning with "1", "4", or "5" represent vehicles assembled in the United States. Vehicles with VINs beginning with "J" were produced in Japan. The 2nd digit indicates the Manufacturer, which is Toyota. The next 6 digits (3 through 8) are the Vehicle Description Section (VDS). These provide information on the vehicle, engine, model and body style. The ninth digit is a check digit used internally. The 10th digit indicates the model year. Letters (except "O" and "Z") were used for vehicles up to the 2000 model year, while numbers are used for 2001 and newer vehicles. For example, "X" means the 1999 model year, "Y" is the 2000 model year and "1" represents the 2001 model year. The 11th digit is the plant code. Finally, digits 12 - 17 are the unique vehicle serial number. The letter "O" is never used in a VIN. "0" always refers to the number zero.
"S" is for sport. If you're driving on twisty country roads and want to keep the RPM up as you wind through corners, the "S" position is where you want to be. In "S", the transmission holds lower gears longer for more power as you come out of the curves. "The "B" position favors lower gears, too, but for a totally different purpose. Just as you might shift a conventional transmission to Low on a long downhill grade; you can shift into the "B" position to increase engine drag and help slow the Corolla while coasting down a hill.
Open the latch by pressing the circular black button, beneath the rear hatch glass, just to the right of the Toyota emblem. The window unlocks and pops open. Then lift the latch up and open the window. To close the hatch glass, just pull or push the glass down. As long as nothing is obstructing the locking mechanism, the hatch glass will close and lock into place. Note: If the flip up rear hatch window is open, the power liftgate will not operate.

The blue guidelines on the right and left indicate the approximate width of the vehicle and where it would go when backing straight up.

On flat, level ground, the horizontal red guideline is about 18 inches from the rear of the car. The next blue line is about three feet.

There are several things that can affect the camera and estimated distances. See the Owner's Manual for details.

Disclaimer: The backup camera does not provide a comprehensive view of the rear area of the vehicle. You should also look around outside your vehicle and use your mirrors to confirm rearward clearance. Cold weather will limit effectiveness and view may become cloudy.

Toyota

Here is a list of meanings of recent and current Toyota model cars, trucks and SUVs.

Yaris

Named after Charis, a goddess in Greek mythology, who was a symbol of beauty and elegance. "Ya" refers to the German expression of agreement, symbolizing the car's broad appeal in styling and representative of Toyota's next generation of global cars.

Corolla

Named after the outer envelope or crowning portion of a flower.

Matrix

Refers to a rectangular arrangement of rows and columns, which corresponds to the cross-functional nature, versatility and interior functionality of the vehicle.

Prius

Derived from the Latin prefix meaning "to go before".

Camry

Comes from kan-muri, the Japanese word for crown.

Avalon

Refers to a legendary island paradise in the western seas off the British Isles where King Arthur was carried. Evokes images of comfort, spaciousness and sophistication.

Venza

Venza is a combination of the words "venture" and "Monza," a city in Northern Italy with a racecourse named Autodromo Nazionare Monza. The name was chosen to represent venture, outdoor leisure and driving performance.

Sienna

Derived from the Italian city of Siena.

RAV4

Recreational Active Vehicle with 4WD.

Highlander

Conveys power, energy and ruggedness.

4Runner

Refers to a combination of 4-wheel drive and off-road runner.

FJ Cruiser

Comes from the FJ 40-series Land Cruiser first introduced in 1961.

Sequoia

Named after the great redwood Sequoia tree to convey strength, longevity and beauty.

Tacoma

Derived from a native word for snowy mountain. Chosen for its outdoor images of strength and power.

Tundra

Refers to a rugged terrain that conveys strength and robustness.

In 1990, Toyota debuted the three overlapping Ellipses logo on American vehicles. The Toyota Ellipses symbolize the unification of the hearts of our customers and the heart of Toyota products. The background space represents Toyota's technological advancement and the boundless opportunities ahead.