Does Your Toyota Need an Alternator Repair?
The alternator is a vital part of your car’s electrical system. It’s the component that produces the electricity required by all your car’s devices. If your alternator fails, your battery will inevitably fail soon afterward. When you need an alternator repair in Annapolis, MD, your Toyota dealer is here to help you. We have the technicians, parts, and equipment to quickly fix any alternator problem for you.
Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Toyota Dealer
Shorted Battery Plate
A short in your battery can very easily damage a good alternator. The short will start draining battery power. When you start your engine, the alternator will kick in and produce electricity. Under normal circumstances, the alternator will charge your battery at full power for five minutes and will then switch to charging at 10% of your battery’s total capacity. This allows your battery to fully charge without straining the alternator.
A short in the battery, however, will register your battery at a far lower capacity than it should be. To compensate for this, and to charge the battery ASAP, your alternator will work harder than it should. Your alternator isn’t designed to run at full power for long periods, as this is not necessary. Constantly producing power will overheat your alternator and damage the rectifiers. This will cause your alternator to fail.
Starting Problems
Your battery provides the power to initiate the crank and start your engine. Cranking the engine is the largest use of power by your battery. Normally, this isn’t a problem as your alternator will quickly replenish the battery’s lost power. If your alternator is weak or failing, it can’t produce enough electricity for all of your cars’ components. This lack of power means your battery will be weaker, as it’s recharging much slower than it should.
If you turn the key and your engine has to crank several times before it starts, this can be a sign of an alternator problem. The lower level of battery power, coupled with the large amount of electricity needed to start your engine, means it can take much longer to start your engine. The extra time is taken up by your battery needing time to build up power.
Electrical Anomalies
When an alternator is failing, it produces less electricity than your car demands. Your computer will try and balance the electricity supply and demand by allocating electricity as needed. This can lead to a situation of electrical devices suddenly failing to work, as power is withdrawn and diverted to another device.
These anomalies can be anything from your radio failing to work to the dash lights going out. As other devices are switched off, more power becomes available and the electrical anomalies disappear. The more your alternator weakens, the more frequently these anomalies will appear.
Driving with a weak alternator can also damage other components, including the battery and your car’s computer. If you have any doubts about your alternator, call us right away at Koons Toyota Annapolis.
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5 Favorite Features of the 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid
The 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid is back and better than ever. Boasting an impressive lineup of state-of-the-art tech and safety features, the new Camry Hybrid is poised to be one of the best hybrids on the market this year. Plus, with an estimated 46 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, the 2022 Camry Hybrid is also one of the most fuel-efficient sedans in its class. So, without further ado, let’s check out five of the very best features of the new 2022 Camry Hybrid.
1. Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
2. Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
3. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
4. Road Sign Assist
5. Apple Carplay and Android Auto
With all of the exciting tech and safety features in the 2022 Camry Hybrid, there’s never been a better time to get into a new Toyota. Not only is the Camry Hybrid equipped with great safety systems, but it’s also one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid sedans in its class, meaning that it will also save you a ton of money at the pumps. To learn more about the available features and models or to book a test drive, be sure to contact Koons Toyota Annapolis today.
Everyone loves breakfast. A great breakfast restaurant and the best brunch places are always winners in any community. Thankfully, we have some of the best breakfast places in the state right here in Annapolis, MD.
Find a Breakfast Restaurant Near Annapolis, MD
Bean Rush Cafe
If you are in need of a fast breakfast, this café is a great place to stop. Obviously, they have all kinds of delicious coffee. Their Red Eye brewed coffee topped with espresso will really get you going. They also have plenty of espresso specialties to choose from: try their Aussie flat white. There are also delicious looseleaf teas to try, single-origin tea blends that change seasonally, and freshly roasted beans that you can buy by the pound.
But there are also delicious breakfast choices here. They offer bagel breakfast sandwiches with a wide variety of toppings, from just cheese (choose from cheddar, American, provolone, mozzarella, or Swiss) to lox and cream cheese, as well as egg and cheese bagel breakfast sandwiches with a variety of meats. You can also get your bagel by itself with a variety of spreads, and all kinds of delicious pastries, oatmeal, or a fruit cup with granola and yogurt.
Light House Bistro
Ligh House Bistro is a polished and sophisticated place that you’ll enjoy going to for brunch. This place exists specifically to offer employment to those who have employment barriers, for whatever reason. All the profits are reinvested back into the mission, and even the building itself uses repurposed materials and fixtures. This is a great place to go for a community-friendly meal
You can get nearly anything for breakfast here. Try their delicious California omelet, which comes with bacon, tomato, cheddar, and avocado. The meatloaf hash with eggs is a local specialty, and their brunch menu also offers a variety of delicious flatbreads. We particularly like the goat and fig flatbread. You can also get chicken and waffles, blueberry pancakes, house-made bread pudding, and a variety of egg sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
Eastport Kitchen
Eastport Kitchen prides itself on offering great food that uses only the best possible ingredients. Yet they manage to keep their prices very reasonable, and the service here is great. This place is meant to be a spot where friends can gather and have a great time over a relaxed meal. You can always order online or call them to place an order, but we recommend heading in to try some of their delicious breakfast foods.
The Breakfast Bomb, made up of scrambled eggs, ham, and cheddar cheese on a brioche bun, is definitely worth a visit. We also highly recommend their avocado toast, which comes with pickled onions, chile peppers, and a fried egg. You can also get pancakes and bacon, a breakfast burrito, and a delicious parfait made with Greek yogurt and house-made granola. If you’re there for brunch, there are also quite a variety of salads and sandwiches to choose from.
These are just a few of our favorite spots, and we hope that you like them as much as we do. After breakfast, come and see us at Koons Annapolis Toyota for the best service around!
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A Closer Look at the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Open up new possibilities for your next adventure by getting a hybrid SUV that’s capable of taking on anything. The 2022 Toyota RAV4 hybrid sets itself apart from what other hybrid vehicles are offering by bringing the versatility and power that Toyota SUVs are known for and balancing it with maximum hybrid efficiency. Get the full picture of what the RAV4 Hybrid has to offer from the close look we took at this vehicle.
Electronic All-Wheel Drive Capability
Experience everything that a more intelligent grip on the road can give you when you drive with the RAV4 Hybrid’s electronic on-demand all-wheel drive capability. You’ll be ready for any weather conditions you might face on the road with the improved traction that this advanced driving technology provides for you. The motor will intelligently distribute power between your wheels for an instant improvement that you can feel making a difference.
Reach New Heights of Efficiency
SUVs of the past used to have a reputation for being inefficient gas guzzlers, but the RAV4 Hybrid is about to change that perception in a big way. The advanced hybrid powertrain that this vehicle is engineered with balances electric and gas power to help you go a little further, giving you up to 41 miles per gallon. That will make trips to the gas station a rare occurrence, giving you more time to enjoy your next destination instead.
Power and Performance on Command
You may have thought that hybrids can’t give you the powerful sense of excitement that vehicles with a conventional engine can, but the RAV4 Hybrid is ready to prove you wrong. This vehicle brings 219 combined net horsepower to the table so that there’s nothing you don’t feel prepared to handle. Combine that with the sport-tuned suspension this vehicle comes equipped with to pair outstanding handling with that sheer power.
The Latest Tech at Your Fingertips
Five available USB ports throughout the cabin and a Qi-compatible wireless charging station help you keep your devices up and running in the RAV4 Hybrid, giving you an idea of the high-tech approach Toyota took towards designing this vehicle. Your purchase of the RAV4 also comes with a one-year trial of Toyota Remote Connect, giving you constant connectivity that you can access through your smartphone or smartwatch so you’re never out of touch.
Dependable Safety Features
If you’re looking for a vehicle that goes the extra mile when it comes to keeping you and everyone riding with you safe, look no further than the RAV4 Hybrid and its advanced array of safety features. You’ll have a helping hand keeping you right where you need to be on the road with the lane departure alert system with steering assist. Providing both warning cues and automated steering guidance, these features will help avoid inadvertent lane departures.
Ready to get hands-on with the RAV4 Hybrid and see everything that it can do for yourself? Schedule your test drive at Koons Annapolis Toyota today!
Annapolis, MD, is a city rich in history and culture, which is evident in the many museums that are located here. If you’re looking for an exciting and unique educational experience, be sure to check out the four best museums nearby!
Banneker-Douglass Museum
The Banneker-Douglass Museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting African American culture and history. Located on Franklin St, the museum is named after two prominent African Americans: Benjamin Banneker and Frederick Douglass. It’s a great place to learn more about the contributions of African Americans to both Maryland and the United States as a whole.
Banneker was a self-educated mathematician and astronomer, and Douglass was an abolitionist and orator. Both played a significant role in shaping American history. The museum exhibit, Deep Roots Rising Waters, is a must-see overview of African American history from 1633 to the present. This remarkable exhibit highlights how Maryland impacted our nation’s history, including Banneker’s anti-slavery protest and Thurgood Marshall’s work in education.
United States Naval Academy Museum
The United States Naval Academy Museum is located on the U.S. Naval Academy campus and is one of the most popular museums in the city. The museum tells the story of the United States Navy, from its humble beginnings to its present-day status as a world-class military force. The museum houses thousands of items, including paintings, photographs, weapons, and uniforms.
One of the most popular exhibits is a display of seventeenth and eighteenth-century model ships. With more than seventy models, it’s the largest public collection in North America, providing a chronology of warship design. Another exhibit of interactive maps details the tactics of several U.S. naval battles.
Annapolis Maritime Museum
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is a waterfront museum that tells Annapolis’s story of maritime history. Overlooking the Chesapeake Bay, the museum has numerous educational programs, an art gallery, and two 500 gallon aquariums. The museum also has an extensive collection of maritime artifacts, maps, photographs, and documents. The museum’s research library contains over 1,500 books about local maritime ecology and history.
Annapolis Maritime Museum includes several interactive and virtual exhibits, including a digital game and a life-size hologram of a waterman. You can even board a boat and experience the Chesapeake Bay in a virtual reality environment.
Historic London Town and Gardens
Historic London Town and Gardens is a living history museum located in Annapolis. The museum tells the story of the American Revolution and the development of the United States. The museum is housed on an 18th-century tobacco plantation and features costumed interpreters, period rooms, and gardens.
The museum contains a colonial village centered around the William Brown House, a historic landmark. The grounds also include reconstructed colonial buildings, sensory and sound gardens, and trails.
If you’re looking for an excellent day trip, visit these great museums in our backyard. While you’re out exploring, stop by Koons Annapolis Toyota. We’re located just minutes away from all the great museums in town and offer a wide selection of new Toyotas and used cars to fit your budget!
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7 Things to Look for in a Quality Toyota Mechanic
You might not think it, but there are a lot of things to consider when selecting your Toyota mechanic. Sure, you want someone who is qualified and experienced when working with Toyota, but there’s more to it than that.
1. Gives Practical Cost Estimates
When selecting a mechanic, it is important to look for people who are upfront about costs and who don’t try to scare you into expensive repairs. If your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere on a hot day in Maryland, does your mechanic try to convince you that you need something major, like new brakes or a transmission flush?
2. Has Good Communication Skills
Whenever you come for a regular maintenance visit or need a service after an accident, make sure that your mechanic has at least these three qualities:
• Takes the time to explain what’s wrong and how to fix it
• Lets you know if repairs are going to take longer than you originally estimated
• Gives you tips on how to handle common car challenges in the future
3. Will Stand Behind the Work
What is the mechanic’s warranty policy? If you are dissatisfied with your Volvo car or it doesn’t fix the initial problem, what kind of warranty is in place? A good mechanic will make sure that their customers have a positive experience and won’t delay to help them quickly.
4. Certified by the Manufacturer
A Toyota-certified mechanic should be skilled and knowledgeable enough to fix just about anything. For example, if you have an older model with more complicated components, your mechanic needs to know how all those parts interact and function as one system.
5. A Good Reputation
The first thing you want to do is get an idea of how reputable and professional the company or individual is. You can use online reviews, social media channels, blogs, or even word-of-mouth from friends and family members who have used them before.
6. Has the Latest Diagnostic Equipment
Always consider a mechanic who has the latest diagnostic equipment in order to correctly pinpoint the problem with your car. This is important because it prevents you from spending money on unneeded repairs. The right equipment will also help your mechanic find potential issues before they become a problem.
7. Honesty
The most important thing when it comes to selecting a good mechanic is who you feel confident in. If they’re trustworthy and reliable, then that can make all the difference for your car’s repairs. Treasure a mechanic who is honest about what needs to be repaired now versus what can wait until later. Whether you own a Toyota or not, the type of mechanic you choose can make all the difference when it comes to your vehicle’s longevity. Visit Koons Annapolis Toyota in Annapolis, MD if you love to help keep your valuable investment safe and on the road with regular routine maintenance as more serious repairs.
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6 Signs Your Toyota Vehicle May Need a Brake Repair
The brakes are some of the most crucial components of any car, and it’s vital to ensure that they stay in good working order. If the brakes start to fail in any way, it may become much harder to slow down or stop your vehicle. This will massively increase your chances of having an accident. This guide will go over some of the common signs of brake problems, so you know exactly when to visit your Toyota dealer for brake repair.
1. Warning Light On
Modern cars have various dashboard lights that let you know when certain components are being used or may be in need of attention or repair. You may have several brake indicator lights on the dashboard, for example. One or more of these lights might show up automatically when the parking brake is being used, but they might also illuminate when something is wrong with the brake system.
2. Spongy Brakes
The brake pedal should be firm and resistant, and you should have to use a reasonable amount of effort to push it down with your foot. If it feels soft and spongy, or sinks right down to the ground when you press it without providing any real resistance, this is a sign that the brakes require urgent repair. You should never try to continue driving with soft or spongy brakes.
3. Strange Sounds
Cars can emit all kinds of rumbling and vibrating sounds as their various parts and systems move around. Some sounds are normal and nothing to worry about, but others can be warning signs that something has gone wrong. If you hear grinding or squealing sounds when pressing the brakes, you might have issues with a number of different brake components, including the pads, calipers, brake shoe, and plates.
4. Shaking or Wobbling
Another big sign that something might be wrong with your brakes is wobbling or shaking movement when the brakes are used. If you press down on the brake pedal and feel the vehicle or steering wheel
start to vibrate and shake, it’s likely that your brake rotor has a problem. The rotor may have gotten rusty, worn, or fallen out of its usual position, for example.
5. Fluid Leaks
The brake system needs a special kind of fluid, known as brake fluid, to work properly. If the fluid levels drop too low due to leaks or other issues, the system won’t work as it should and you might experience soft or unresponsive brakes. It’s recommended to have your brake fluid levels checked on a regular basis to spot any leaks or problems before they develop into something more serious.
6. Pulling to the Side
Another possible issue that you might notice is your car veering to one side when you apply the brakes. This can be very inconvenient to deal with, as you have to steer carefully to stay in your lane whenever you apply the brakes. It’s usually a sign that the brake pads on one side are worn down and need replacing, or it could be an issue with the brake hose or calipers. It’s never a good idea to carry on driving if you detect brake system issues. So if you spot any of the signs listed above, or any other issues with your brakes, the best thing to do is visit your local dealer for checks and repairs. Call Koons Annapolis Toyota today to arrange brake servicing for your car in Annapolis, MD.
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Top 4 Seafood Restaurants in Annapolis, MD
Want to get the freshest seafood that you can find in Annapolis, MD? Then stop in at any of these quality seafood restaurants and let them treat you to a meal that is anything but average.
1. O’Brien’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Tavern
This well-established eatery has been one of the go-to places for anyone in our area craving fresh-caught seafood for years, giving you a taste of local tradition on every plate they serve you. The 18th-century banquet hall at O’Brien’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Tavern let you feel that history all around you as you sit down for a meal.
Stop in one Wednesday to get a deal on their 99-cent oysters, letting you get a seafood feast that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. They also make a cream of crab soup that packs a savory flavor that we can’t get enough of, ensuring that we clean our bowls every time we order this absolute treat.
2. Boatyard Bar and Grill
Local fishermen, sailors, and everybody who loves the Chesapeake area all gather at Boatyard Bar and Grill when it’s time for a top-class seafood feast. The delicacies that they serve up are so good, people from all over the country order them up to be shipped nationwide so that everyone can get a taste of our hometown.
Check out their rotating list of daily specials to get something new to taste every time you stop in for a visit here. For a meal that’s a solid choice any time, order up a plate of Fin’s Fantabulous Fish Tacos, filled with panko-battered codfish loin and all the fixings. The fresh guacamole that goes into this dish is a favorite of ours.
3. Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
The folks at Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls don’t believe in hype. Instead, they let the fresh flavor of their specialty dishes speak for themselves. Their lobster comes fresh from the waters of Maine to give you a first-class flavor that will be love at first bite.
Just like the name suggests, the lobster rolls they serve here are the star of the show. The classic roll comes chilled with mayo and a bit of lemon butter to give the flavor a citrus twist. Or you can get a lobster BLT roll to add crispy bacon and fresh lettuce and tomato to the mix.
4. Rockin Roll Cajun Seafood Bar
Get your favorite seafood dishes with a spicy Cajun twist at Rockin Roll Cajun Seafood Bar. Don’t leave without trying one of their signature po’boy sandwiches. Whether you get yours with shrimp, oyster, or crispy fried fish, you’re sure to love this classic sandwich and the side of fries or sweet potato fries it comes served with.
For deals on a quality vehicle that are as fresh as the seafood served at these restaurants, come to our dealership and check out the wide selection of options we have available for you. Shop at Koons Annapolis Toyota today!
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Located along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, the city of Annapolis, MD, is a popular day-trip destination among residents of Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and other urban areas in the northeastern United States. Maryland’s state capital features a charming downtown area, tourist attractions, as well as a vibrant cultural and gastronomic scene that attracts visitors of all ages. If you are looking for the best spots to visit while in the city, these are some landmarks you should not miss.
1. Maryland State House
Considered the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, and the only state house to have also served as the national capitol, the Maryland State House is one of the first spots you should visit while in Annapolis. Built between the years 1772 and 1797, this beautiful building was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1966. Between November 26, 1783, and August 13, 1784, the place was the meeting venue of the Congress of the Confederation.
Located on the western end of Annapolis’ historic downtown area, the Maryland State House can be easily reached on foot from most of the city’s other attractions. The building is open to the public year-round between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., and guided tours can be booked in advance. In the Old Senate Chamber, you can see the exact place where the Treaty of Paris was ratified in 1784 marking the end of the American Revolutionary War.
2. Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park
The city of Annapolis is famous for its rich maritime heritage, and there is no better place to learn about it than the Annapolis Maritime Museum, located right along the banks of the Severn River. Welcoming visitors of all ages, this museum features a permanent exhibition and regularly hosts programs, community events, and exhibits that bring together locals and visitors. The museum is staffed by about 350 volunteers and is one of the main cultural attractions in the city.
The Annapolis Maritime Museum is located a little over a mile away from the city center, making it possible to reach it in about 20 minutes on foot, or seven minutes by car. Open Tuesday through Sunday between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., this museum charges an admission fee of $7 for adults and $5 for senior, military, and young visitors. The museum’s large park is a popular spot for weddings, cultural events, fairs, and other outdoor activities.
3. Main Street
Linking the St. Anne’s Parish and the Annapolis City Dock, Main Street is considered the core of the Colonial Annapolis Historic District and is the best place to go for a walk in the city center. Lined with photogenic colonial buildings, charming cafés, and local restaurants, Main Street is one of the places you should visit at least once while in the area.
If you are planning to buy a new or used car in the Annapolis area, visit us at Koons Annapolis Toyota. We have an extensive inventory of vehicles, as well as flexible financing plans and a team of friendly agents who will be happy to help you find the best deal.
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Most vehicles need a transmission service every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. However, there are variances involved in this guideline. In many cases, it’s generally a good idea to get service on your transmission more regularly. Visiting your Annapolis, MD Toyota dealer and talking to a technician would be a good idea, as every vehicle is different, and you might need a service more often than other drivers.
3 Factors That Influence How Often You Need a Transmission Service
1. What It Says in Your Manual
The owner’s manual will give you a tighter guideline on how often you need to get a service on your transmission. If you no longer have your owner’s manual, then we recommend speaking to a Toyota expert. You’ll find Toyota experts at the local dealership, so stop by for a chat if you’re ever worried about something related to your vehicle. We’re happy to help.
2. Your Vehicle’s Age
As your vehicle gets older, its parts wear down a little, so it takes more TLC to keep them in top condition. Older vehicles will need more frequent maintenance, so you may prefer to get service on your transmission more often. Speak to your technician about the condition your vehicle is in. If they think you need more regular maintenance and services, then they’ll let you know.
3. The Type of Vehicle You Have
Manual and automatic transmissions have different needs. Manual transmission vehicles’ transmission fluid is easily contaminated by the gears and metal bearings in your vehicle wearing down. The metal gets into the fluid and inhibits its lubricating abilities. This leads to your transmission fluid becoming less effective, so you’ll need to visit the dealer more regularly. Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles is best, and that equates to roughly every 2 to 4 years. If you have an automatic vehicle, then it’s then you’ll most likely be safe to only bring your vehicle for a service on your transmission every 4 to 7 years. This lets you stick closer to the 60,000 to 100,000-mile guideline that we mentioned earlier. However, always talk to your technician, and ask how often they recommend that you come by for a service on your transmission.
When Should You Visit Your Annapolis, MD Toyota Dealer Between Services?
You should be visiting your dealer for your annual full service, your annual or 6 monthly oil changes, and for any other repairs that you need during the year. However, you may also need regular maintenance and quick checkups on your transmission. Your transmission fluid level decreases with time, and it drops even further if your system springs a leak. You should check on your fluid levels regularly, and make a note if your transmission fluid level seems lower than usual. If it’s lower than should be or if it’s dropping rapidly, then you need to visit your dealer and talk to a technician about getting a service on your transmission. Swing by Koons Annapolis Toyota when it’s time for your next service or repair. We promise we won’t let you down.
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