Toyota Parts Blog » Toyota OEM Parts

How To Find The Best Oil Filter For Your Toyota Truck

admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 07:00:40 +0000

At Toyota Parts Center, we’ve done a little research to help you find the best oil filter for your Toyota pickup truck.

We’ve torn apart and analyzed five different oil filters for the Tundra and eight different oil filters for the Tacoma. Here is what we found.

Toyota Tacoma Oil Filter Comparison

With the Toyota Tacoma oil filter, here is our Top 3:

Toyota OEM
Wix
K&N

The Toyota OEM, Wix and K&N filters are all great filters for your Tacoma. These three rise to the top when compared to Bosch, ACDelco, MicroGard, Fram High Mileage and SuperTech.

Here’s why we like the Toyota OEM, Wix and K&N filters.

Filter Surface Area – These three filters had the largest filter surface area to help filter out more oil impurities.

Bypass Valve – Of the eight that we compared, these three had the best bypass valves. Each of the valves functioned at a high level.

Filter Materials – The materials used in these three filters was less paper-like, less crumbly when cut, and generally sturdier.

So which did we like the best? They are all good filters. However, the Toyota OEM ($4.33) comes in at a lower price than the Wix ($6.99) and K&N ($13.99) filters.

If you can find a Wix or K&N filter at a similar price to the OEM filter, they are worth considering. However, you’ll get more value out of the Toyota OEM parts.

You can read the full report here: Toyota Tacoma Oil Filter Comparison

Toyota Tundra Oil Filter Comparison

When it comes to the Toyota Tundra, we examined five filters. Here is how we would rank them.

Toyota OEM ($4.33)
Wix ($6.99)
Fram Standard ($6.44)
MicroGard ($6.59)
Fram ExtraGuard ($9.49)

Like the Tacoma, the Toyota OEM and Wix filters had more surface area as well as a better bypass valve. The Fram and MicroGard were solid filters, but need not meet the high levels of the Toyota OEM and Wix filters.

The Fram ExtraGuard filter we tested did not fare well. It had inconsistent manufacturing and loose surface particles as well as the smallest surface area and highest density.

To read the full report with our research, click here: Toyota Tundra Oil Filter Comparison.

The Truth About OEM Parts

admin — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 07:00:35 +0000

You’ve probably heard mechanics talking about OEM parts or Toyota OEM parts. But do you know what this means?

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. These are parts that were actually built by the manufacturer.

For instance if you’re looking for Camry parts, OEM Camry parts would be made by Toyota. Car parts not made by the manufacturer are often times referred to as generic or off-brand parts.

So when your Toyota needs new parts what should you get … OEM or generic?

You should go with OEM parts and it’s not just because we sell them. Here’s the truth about OEM parts.

OEM Parts Fit The First Time – With OEM parts, you don’t have to worry about the parts not properly fitting. That’s because the manufacturer specifically designed the parts.

OEM Parts Are Quality Made – Every OEM part meets manufacturer’s specifications. No corners were cut. It’s all about quality.

OEM Parts Perform Better – These are the parts that were specifically designed for your vehicle. You can be sure that they’ll help your car perform at its best.

OEM Parts Come With A Warranty – Most OEM parts are at least backed up with a one-year warranty. You don’t get that with most generic parts.

Sure there are some that will say OEM parts are more expensive than off-brand parts. But you get what you pay for. With generic parts, the quality is not as great … you don’t have much selection … and you don’t always get a warranty.

In our opinion, go with the OEM parts!

Discontinued Toyota Models That People Love

admin — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 07:00:38 +0000

Do you remember this commercial?

It was for the Toyota Tercel. Does it bring back the memories? The Tercel is just one of several discontinued Toyota vehicles.

For a trip down memory lane, here are some other discontinued Toyota models that people love.

The Toyota Tercel: From 1978 to 2000, the Tercel was Toyota’s subcompact car. The car saw five model generations. The name in Latin means “one-third” as the Tercel was a slightly smaller car than the Corolla. The Echo eventually phased out the Toyota Tercel in 2000. You can still find Toyota parts for this vehicle online.

The Toyota Celica: The Toyota Celica was a four-cylinder sports car that was popular from 1970-2006. In its more than 30 years on the road, the Celica had seven model generations. In Latin, the car’s name means “heavenly” or “celestial.” On the internet, you can still find Celica parts for this popular vehicle.

The Toyota Supra: The Toyota Supra ruled the road from 1978 to 2002. Production of this fast sports car stopped in 1998 in the United States, but it continued to be produced in Japan until 2002. The car started out as a variation of the Toyota Celica, but it became its own model in 1986. There are been rumors that the may be rereleased. However Toyota refutes these claims.

The Toyota MasterAce: The Toyota MasterAce was a unique looking van that was produced from 1982 to 1989. The van had several name variations including Toyota Van and the Toyota Space Cruiser. The Toyota Previa eventually replaced the MasterAce.

The Toyota Corona: Production on this car started in 1957. While it was discontinued in the United States in 1983, it continued on in other parts of the world until 2002. The Corona was a mid-sized car. It had a popular run in the United States until the Camry replaced it, which was slightly larger.

Signs That It’s Time To Get The Brakes Fixed

admin — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 07:00:12 +0000

It happens approximately every 10,000 miles. A lot of times it starts with a

grinding sound when you apply the brake pedal.

It means it’s time for new brakes. If your car is experiencing any of the symptoms below, it probably means that it’s time for new brakes.

A Sinking Brake Pedal: If your brakes do not respond like they once did, it’s probably time to visit a mechanic. If your brake pedals is sinking to the ground there is probably an issue with the brake pressure.

Grinding Noises: If you’re starting to hear grinding noises when you apply the brakes, it’s likely that the brake pads are worn. You’re hearing that grinding sound because the pads have been worn to the metal and need to be replaced.

Knocking Vibrations: If you’re feeling strange vibrations when you apply the brakes, it means that your rotors are probably warped. This happens because the brake pads are unable to hold onto the surface of the rotor. The rotor needs to be smooth to work properly.

When replacing your brakes or any parts on your vehicle, be sure to take it to a certified mechanic. There, you will get the expert service to get the job done right.

Also, you’ll be sure that they use quality parts.

For instance if you own a Toyota, you’ll want them to use Toyota OEM parts. OEM parts are designed by the manufacture and help keep you car on the road longer. For example, if you own a Toyota Prius, you would want to find OEM Prius parts.

How often do you replace the brakes on your vehicle? Leave your comments below.

Things to look for when buying Used Cars

admin — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 03:49:59 +0000

Everyone has had to drive a used car at some point or another. While it is a very smart consumer choice for those strapped for cash, a used car purchase can make or break someone’s mobility. Find a good car for a cheap price, and end up loving that Used Toyota for generations to come. Miss a couple key details, however, and you’re stuck with a car that isn’t reliable and bound to fail at one point or another. Here are several important things to keep in mind while searching for that next “Oldie but goodie”.

1. Look under the Hood!!

The engine is without a doubt the most important part to inspect when looking at a used car. Many times a used car is only judged on the outer appearance, and that is one of the WORST things to do. In the grand scheme of things, the car needs to actually run more than it needs to look like a luxury Lexus. When looking under the hood, take note of any irregularities like non Toyota OEM parts, loose belts, patched hoses, and corroded batteries. These little things can tell a lot about the former owner, and that usually can hint to how well the car was taken care of. Sometimes, with non OEM parts in older cars, problems can arise from the extra strain they put on the engine. While non-OEM are sometimes advertised as delivering more performance or gas mileage, the best thing to do would be to ask your local Kansas City Toyota Dealership about aftermarket parts.

2. Take it for a test drive!

Make sure to really listen to the car as you drive. The slightest noise or rattle can betray the biggest and most expensive problems to fix, and they aren’t anything to be ignored. Because the history of a used car isn’t always set in stone, you shouldn’t accept anything less than the best your money can buy. If you purchase a cheap car that seems to look nice under the hood and on the interior, but has a little rattle when driving on the highway, then the repairs spent to fix that stretched belt or broken fan could outweigh the cost of spending extra money on a nicer vehicle overall.

3. Don’t just ignore the looks!

While I mentioned not judging a book by it’s cover, the exterior of a car does play an important part in weighing the positives and negatives of a purchase. The more dinged up and scratched a used car is, the worse care it probably got from it’s former owner. It all comes back to trying to figure out what kind of automotive consumer owned the vehicle last. Not to slam the Used Toyota Car seller, but if the car doesn’t appear to have been well taken care of, then it probably isn’t a good buy.

4. Take it to an authorized dealer for an inspection!

One of the best resources for making informed automotive purchases resides at your local Kansas City Toyota Dealerships. It is the mechanic’s job there to be well informed on the different problems that can arise in vehicles over time, and for a quick fee they can usually show you any trouble spots. You may never be able to tell if a car’s transmission is about to give out, but usually a well versed mechanic can see the tell-tale signs of problems before they happen. They can also spot those non Toyota OEM parts that could cause an issue down the road.

Easy Ways To Improve The Gas Mileage In Your Toyota

admin — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:00:56 +0000

You’re going to feel the squeeze at the gas pump this summer. Gas prices are expected to rise over $4 a gallon this summer.

To help you prepare for the spike in prices, here are some effective ways to improve the gas mileage in your Toyota.

Check the tire pressure: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tires with low pressure can hurt gas mileage. Be sure to regularly check your tire pressure.

Get a tune up: The U.S. Department of Energy also says a car that is out of tune or has failed emissions can improve gas mileage by four percent with a tune up. Fixing a broken oxygen sensor can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent.

Use good motor oil: You can improve your Toyota’s gas mileage if you use the proper grade of oil for your vehicle. Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of oil can improve gas mileage.

Follow the speed limit: Gas mileage typically decreases when a car gets above 60 miles per hour. You should follow speed limits to save on gas as well as for safety purposes.

If you follow these tips, you will be able to improve the gas mileage in your Toyota this summer. Also be sure to keep your Toyota in good working condition and be sure to use quality Prius parts or Tacoma parts if you own these types of Toyotas.

Tell us how you save on gas when prices increase. Leave your comments below.

Toyota Recalls Certain Tundra Trucks

2010 Toyota Tundra

admin — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 01:53:32 +0000

The 2009 Chevy Silverado, “America’s Best Truck” is getting a run for their money with the new Toyota Tundra on the market. The new Silverado has select improvements that give it a segment topping fuel economy rating, a 6.2-liter engine, and locks on the rear wheels to reduce wheel spin. It now has a 6-speed automatic transmission, compared to the 4-speed on the last model. The technological changes are included in the interior. These include a New Version of OnStar, XM Traffic Flow, and Blue Tooth connectability.
Yes, that’s a lot of cool features, but most of them come only in the more expensive Crew Cab package. Toyota uses Genuine Toyota Parts to include more advanced features for a lower price than most dealers. And of course, the genuine Toyota parts make all Toyota cars have a higher and better quality. The Toyota tundra has a DVD navigation system, and it provides audible and onscreen instructions. These features are included and don’t require a monthly subscription, unlike the Silverado, which requires an $18.95 monthly payment.
The Silverado has a five star crash rating, but the Tundra is the top safety pick of 2009. It has driver and front passenger seat-mounted airbags. It also includes driver and front passenger knee airbags. These two features are not available on the Silverado. The standard front and rear side curtain airbags included on the Tundra are an extra cost feature on the Silverado.
Again, the Toyota Tundra has knocked out all other trucks in its class as it climbs to the top of the chart. The safety features, the technology differences, and the better gas mileage make this truck a top pick for anyone looking for a heavy duty vehicle powered by heavy duty parts. And of course, genuine Toyota parts outlast all other brands, so your truck can withstand even the toughest conditions.

Toyota Owners Online, the best place for Toyota Owners to be!

admin — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 01:12:34 +0000

Toyota Owners online is the official Toyota website for all Toyota owners. If you own a Toyota you can go here to find out how to get genuine Toyota parts, do-it-yourself tips, a car care guide, the best Toyota Accessories, online maintenance guides and so much more. Powered by Toyota, this is the best site to make sure your Toyota gets the love it needs.

Toyota Owners Online has literally everything you need. Financing options, Quick vehicle reference guides, fun stories from other Toyota owners, basic warranty information for your vehicle type, and so on. You also have access to the Toyota Truck Nation (cool site just for truck owners), and by becoming a member you get exclusive access to owner vehicle information, discounts, benefits and more! More than this blog has room to list so go check it out and see for yourself!

To join simply go to www.toyotaownersonline.com.

No related posts.