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Six Tips for Avoiding Pesky Pothole Damage While Driving

Spring has sprung, and so have the annoying potholes of wet winter weather left behind on some of your most frequented roads. And unfortunately, these divots in the asphalt can wreak havoc on your vehicle. While they might not seem like a huge issue, potholes can cause costly damage to tires, suspensions, and other vehicle parts. A report from AAA indicates that drivers in the U.S. spend an average of $3 billion on pothole damage repairs each year. Luckily, there are several smart moves drivers can make to help minimize and hopefully steer clear of the damage that these rocky pavement pits might cause. Check out the roadmap below on how to avoid pothole pitfalls driving forward: Don’t drive through puddles When it comes to puddles, be cautious. Don’t drive a vehicle too fast through them since there may be hidden potholes that are deep and extra dangerous. If the vehicle does collide with a deep crater, don’t panic. Pullover to a safe spot on the highway or shoulder of the road right away. Slow down, check for cross traffic, change lanes and come to a stop to check for damage. Stay alert on unfamiliar roads When driving on an unfamiliar road, watch out for hazards. Because drivers often anticipate and avoid potholes in areas they travel often, they might not notice new ones in less frequented areas. Drivers should keep their eyes peeled in new places and proceed with caution. Keep a safe distance between vehicles Maintain a safe distance between vehicles on the road. Drivers will be able to spot potholes faster and more easily when they can see what’s coming. Make it a point to maintain at least a 3-second following distance between the vehicle in front of you. And remember, allow for extra space on highways and byways because it’s possible to miss a pothole when following too closely at faster speeds. Keep up on car maintenance If the vehicle’s tires are inflated properly when it hits a pothole, it lessens the chance of damage. When a vehicle hits a pothole with low tire pressure, the rim is more likely to be damaged and the suspension could suffer. Underinflated tires may also increase the chances of losing control of your vehicle or getting a blowout. Overinflated tires will not give as much during impact with a pothole, which could also damage the suspension. Shocks and struts in good condition, with properly inflated tires, can cushion the blow. Drive slower in the dark Less visibility during nighttime means it can be tougher to avoid potholes. Reduce the chances of driving over them and minimize damage by taking it slow on the roads. This defensive driving tactic is especially helpful when it’s rainy or excessively windy. Know how to hit an unavoidable pothole Some potholes just can’t be avoided. One of the best things to do is slow down to avoid incurring vehicle damage. When the car hits a pothole, grip the steering wheel tightly to prevent it from jerking. Just don’t brake before hitting a pothole because doing so can cause damage. Source: Michigan Department of Transportation

National Car Care Month: Six Reasons Why Proper Vehicle Maintenance Is Important

Keeping your vehicle well maintained is one of the best things that can be done to help keep it on the road for years to come. Many drivers might not realize the impact regular maintenance can make on the longevity and performance of their vehicles. Outside of oil changes and checking tire tread, there are a lot of things a trained mechanic (especially a Toyota service pro) will know to look for that could otherwise go unnoticed. So, this National Car Care Month, drivers should schedule that service appointment they may have been putting off. The manager of Service Operations at Toyota Motor North America’s (TMNA) corporate headquarters — and self-proclaimed “gear head” — Joe Clarke has been working on vehicles since he was 13 years old. And after 25 years in TMNA’s service department, he’s seen a lot. Here are some of his top tips for showing your vehicle some love: more Minimize time between service appointments Drivers are likely familiar with the little stickers they find on their windshield after service. But most drivers don’t recognize that the dates scribbled on them are the absolute longest they should wait for their next check-up. Ideally, drivers would take their vehicles in for service well ahead of that date. How often depends on the vehicle, the driving conditions (see more about that below) and many other factors. Drivers should consult their maintenance guides — usually provided in their vehicle manuals — for the best estimate. Toyota owners can find their manuals and warranties on the Toyota website. Don’t ignore the little things A squeaky noise coming from under the hood, a small puddle of liquid left in a parking spot or a less than totally cool air conditioner are all examples of little things a driver might notice and not think twice about. However, these small signals can be an initial indicator that something isn’t right. Oftentimes, catching small repairs early can prevent a much costlier repair in the future. Big things matter too If the little things can be costly down the road, it should be obvious that the big things can too. If a driver ever notices any lack of basic functionality — like an accelerator that isn’t working just right, or abnormal loud sounds — they need to immediately have the vehicle checked by a service professional. If an untrained eye, ear or nose can tell something is wrong, take it to the pros for a look as soon as possible. Vehicles with adventurous drivers might need a little extra love It’s no secret that different drivers have different driving habits — and some like to live life on the adventurous side. Drivers who take their 4Runners off-road or hit the track with their GR86, for example, may need maintenance more often than those who only drive their Sienna to work and after-school activities. There are a lot of factors that will impact what maintenance needs look like and how often it’s needed. It is best to consult the vehicle manual’s excessive use section and discuss driving habits with a service professional during regular maintenance appointments to allow them to know what items to inspect more closely. Other driving conditions that qualify as excessive and extreme are frequently towing a trailer and driving on rough or mountainous roads. Clarke mentioned that even taking short trips like to and from the grocery store or around the corner could be considered extreme driving conditions due to vehicle engines needing longer time to get up to the optimal operating temperature, especially in cold climate areas. If drivers are familiar with these conditions, they may need to care for their vehicle more frequently than the average driver. Monitor tire inflation for savings at the pump Maintenance often comes with some built-in savings down the road, but there is one way you might see savings right away: improved gas mileage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, maintenance (like making sure tires are properly inflated) can improve fuel economy by 6%. For drivers who travel long distances, that can mean savings of hundreds of dollars (or more!) per year. That’s just one example of how proper and regular maintenance can help save some money. Maintain your vehicle to appeal to others later When drivers are finally ready to move on from their current vehicle, they’ll want to make sure to get the best possible resale price. Proper maintenance plays a big part in that. Vehicles that are regularly maintained — in some cases — can be in even better condition than a vehicle with fewer miles. Whether selling to a dealership through programs like the Toyota Certified Used Vehicle program or just to the neighbor’s son, the difference between a well-maintained vehicle and one that’s been poorly cared for can reveal itself after a simple test drive around the block. Routine Vehicle Care Tips • Test exterior lights monthly • Check for adequate tire pressure and tread depth • Change oil and oil filter on schedule • Check for battery corrosion • Replace windshield wipers • Keep fluids at proper levels • Wash vehicle regularly and apply wax • Listen for unusual brake noise and inspect regularly Click here to view our service specials.

We wish you a very Happy Easter Weekend. Thanks for trusting and choosing Passport Toyota.

Wishing you a Happy Easter! May the Easter bunny bring you lots of chocolate and may it be a wonderful time spent with your friends and family.

The Future is Now: Toyota Launches All-New bZ4X SUV Battery-Electric Vehicle

The all-electric Toyota bZ4X SUV not only looks to further Toyota’s commitment to a carbon neutral future, but it does so in style. Ready to make a fresh mark on the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) segment, bZ4X blends bold, modern styling with tech-laden features in an extremely capable platform. bZ4X is more than a battery-electric SUV – it’s a new take on multi-purpose vehicles. Coming to dealerships this spring with an EPA-estimated range rating of up to 252 miles (for XLE front-wheel drive models, based on EPA’s testing procedure standards), the 2023 Toyota bZ4X will have a starting MSRP of $42,000. According to the EPA, the average estimated fuel cost savings over five years for the 2023 bZ4X XLE FWD compared to the average new vehicle is up to $5,000. • All-electric bZ4X arrives at U.S. dealers this Spring • EPA-estimated range rating of up to 252 miles per charge for XLE FWD • Bold, SUV design with premium finishes • Impressive AWD capability with X-MODE® system • Accelerating Toyota’s global commitment toward carbon neutrality Click here for more details.

Start your new life in a Toyota with Passport Toyota's College Grad Rebate

THE OFFER A College Graduate Rebate* on select new untitled Toyota and all new untitled Scion models when you finance or lease through a Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services. Plus, enjoy competitive APRs on all new untitled Toyota and Scion vehicles as well as Toyota Certified Used Vehicles and Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles! THE QUALIFICATIONS Proof of graduation in the past 2 calendar years or in the next 6 months and proof of current employment. APPLY FOR CREDIT Your Toyota dealer and TFS are here to help you with your financing. Click here to apply for financing. ELIGIBLE TOYOTA MODELS New Toyota Camry, Corolla, Corolla iM, Prius, Prius C, Prius V, Prius Prime, RAV4, Tacoma, Yaris, Yaris iA, and 86. Click here to view our inventory. more College $500 College Graduate Rebate is available on all new and unlicensed Toyota vehicles. Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUVs) and Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are not eligible for the Rebate Program. College Graduate Finance Program (which is not a rebate and instead offers competitive APRs and lease terms) is available on the lease or finance (including preferred option) of all new and unlicensed Toyota models or on TCUVs or Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles. Subject to the foregoing limits and requirements below, the College Graduate Rebate Program and College Graduate Finance Program are available upon credit approval from and execution of a finance or lease contract through Toyota Financial Services (TFS) at participating Toyota dealers. Not all applicants will qualify. To qualify for the College Graduate Rebate Program and College Graduate Finance Program, customers must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program from an eligible school (as defined below), or enrolled in or be a graduate from an eligible school and provide proof of graduation (showing an upcoming graduation within six months OR a recent graduation within two calendar years from the date of signing your vehicle lease or finance contract) from one of the following eligible schools located in the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands: (a) an accredited four-year college, university or registered nursing program; OR (b) an accredited two-year college associate degree or an undergraduate academic degree as awarded by community colleges, junior colleges, technical colleges and universities; OR (c) an accredited two-year trade or vocational school; OR (d) an accredited graduate school. In all cases, the student will have two calendar years from receipt of their degree to take advantage of the program. Must provide proof of qualification and any one of the following documents will be accepted: (a) copy of diploma; OR (b) letter from the college/university/trade school registrar’s office stating graduation date and type of degree or certification earned; OR (c) copy of the final transcript confirming graduation date and type of degree earned; OR (d) copy of current transcript (or letter from college/university registrar’s office) confirming current enrollment in a graduate degree program. Eligible customers must also meet credit approval requirements and furnish proof of present or future employment (which will begin within 120 days of credit approval) when submitting credit application. Customer must also be approved for credit by, and finance “the Vehicle” through Toyota Financial Services (TFS) at participating Toyota dealers. During the last 24 months, all obligations on your credit report must have been paid within 60 days of the due date, and your credit report must not show more than $1,000 in total charge-offs. Rebate offered by Toyota Motor North America. Rebate will be applied on TFS lease agreements toward the amount due at lease signing or delivery or capitalized cost reduction or the down payment on TFS finance contracts. Limit one rebate per lease or finance transaction. College Graduate Rebate Program may not be combined with the Toyota Military Rebate Program or iFi Program. Vehicle must be taken from dealer stock. Rebate valid on contracts executed between 02-01-2022 through 02-28-2022. College Graduate Programs are subject to change or termination at any time. Some restrictions apply. Programs are not available in AL, FL, GA, HI, NC, and SC. Rebate terms may be more generous in your local area. Ask your participating dealer about the college graduate rebate terms in your area. Under the College Graduate Finance Program, competitive APRs and lease terms are available on eligible finance contracts with terms up to specified number of months for retail and lease and preferred option financing on new vehicles. See dealer for details. Must pay sales tax. Void where prohibited by law. Not redeemable for cash. ©2021 Toyota Financial Services. All rights reserved. Toyota Financial Services is a service mark used by Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC). TMCC is the authorized attorney-in-fact and servicer for Toyota Lease Trust. *College Graduate Rebate is available on all new and unlicensed Toyota vehicles. Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUVs) and Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are not eligible for the Rebate Program. College Graduate Finance Program (which is not a rebate and instead offers competitive APRs and lease terms) is available on the lease or finance (including preferred option) of all new and unlicensed Toyota models or on TCUVs or Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles. Subject to the foregoing limits and requirements below, the College Graduate Rebate Program and College Graduate Finance Program are available upon credit approval from and execution of a finance or lease contract through Toyota Financial Services (TFS) at participating Toyota dealers. Not all applicants will qualify. To qualify for the College Graduate Rebate Program and College Graduate Finance Program, customers must be currently enrolled in a graduate degree program from an eligible school (as defined below), or enrolled in or be a graduate from an eligible school and provide proof of graduation (showing an upcoming graduation within six months OR a recent graduation within two calendar years from the date of signing your vehicle lease or finance contract) from one of the following eligible schools located in the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands: (a) an accredited four-year college, university or registered nursing program; OR (b) an accredited two-year college associate degree or an undergraduate academic degree as awarded by community colleges, junior colleges, technical colleges and universities; OR (c) an accredited two-year trade or vocational school; OR (d) an accredited graduate school. In all cases, the student will have two calendar years from receipt of their degree to take advantage of the program. Must provide proof of qualification and any one of the following documents will be accepted: (a) copy of diploma; OR (b) letter from the college/university/trade school registrar’s office stating graduation date and type of degree or certification earned; OR (c) copy of the final transcript confirming graduation date and type of degree earned; OR (d) copy of current transcript (or letter from college/university registrar’s office) confirming current enrollment in a graduate degree program. Eligible customers must also meet credit approval requirements and furnish proof of present or future employment (which will begin within 120 days of credit approval) when submitting credit application. Customer must also be approved for credit by, and finance “the Vehicle” through Toyota Financial Services (TFS) at participating Toyota dealers. During the last 24 months, all obligations on your credit report must have been paid within 60 days of the due date, and your credit report must not show more than $1,000 in total charge-offs. Rebate offered by Toyota Motor North America. Rebate will be applied on TFS lease agreements toward the amount due at lease signing or delivery or capitalized cost reduction or the down payment on TFS finance contracts. Limit one rebate per lease or finance transaction. College Graduate Rebate Program may not be combined with the Toyota Military Rebate Program or iFi Program. Rebate valid on contracts executed between January 4, 2022 through April 4, 2022. College Graduate Programs are subject to change or termination at any time. Some restrictions apply. Programs are not available in AL, FL, GA, HI, NC, and SC. Rebate terms may be more generous in your local area. Ask your participating dealer about the college graduate rebate terms in your area. Under the College Graduate Finance Program, competitive APRs and lease terms are available on eligible finance contracts with terms up to specified number of months for retail and lease and preferred option financing on new vehicles. See dealer for details. Must take delivery from dealer stock. Must pay sales tax. Void where prohibited by law. Not redeemable for cash. ©2022 Toyota Financial Services. All rights reserved. Toyota Financial Services is a service mark used by Toyota Motor Credit Corporation (TMCC). TMCC is the authorized attorney-in-fact and servicer for Toyota Lease Trust. If you are a student who will graduate from college in the next six months or have graduated in the past two years, you may be eligible for Toyota's College Graduate Rebate Program. You may also be eligible if you are enrolled in or have graduated from a graduate program, have completed a two-year post secondary automotive program accredited by the NATEF or have completed an electrician certification program through NJATC and the IBEW. Can be combined with other Toyota Special offers! Toyota Financial Services College Graduate Program is available on approved credit through participating Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services. Not all applicants will qualify. Incentive offered by Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. On lease contracts, incentive must be applied toward the Amount Due at Lease Signing or toward the Capitalized Cost Reduction. On finance contracts, incentive must be applied toward the Down Payment. One incentive per finance or lease transaction. Not compatible with the Toyota Military Incentive Program. College Graduate Program is subject to change or termination at any time. Some restrictions may apply. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS.Program may not be available in all states. On eligible finance contracts with terms up to 60 months (up to 72 months for Camrys) first payment may be deferred for first 90 days on eligible new Toyota vehicles; finance charges accrue from contract date. Deferred payment not available in Pennsylvania or in connection with the preferred option financial plan. Covers normal factory scheduled service. Plan is 2 years or 25K miles, whichever comes first. The new vehicle cannot be part of a rental or commercial fleet, or a livery/taxi vehicle. See participating Toyota dealer for plan details. Valid only in the continental U.S. and Alaska. Roadside Assistance does not include parts and fluids. Prius Plug-in Hybrid comes with an extra year of roadside assistance, for a total of three (3) years from date of purchase. ToyotaCare covers normal factory scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. 24-hour roadside assistance is also included for 2 years and unlimited miles. The new vehicle cannot be part of a rental or commercial fleet, or a livery/taxi vehicle. See Toyota dealer for details and exclusions. Roadside assistance does not include parts and fluids, except emergency fuel delivery.

Looking for a Toyota that has seating for up to 7? Look no further, as Toyota has options

Which Toyota models offer 7 seats? These 7-passenger vehicles don’t sacrifice seating for performance with great EPA-estimated mileage ratings available sports and TRD packages, and so much more. Build your perfect 7-passenger vehicle today. • Take everyone where they need to go safely with active safety technology. • Build your ideal 7-passenger vehicle with a wide range of trims for every model. • Enjoy maximum comfort with available second-row captain’s chairs on select models. • Keep your fuel costs down with available hybrid 7-passenger models. • Take your vehicle anywhere with available TRD off-road trims. • Keep passengers entertained with available rear-seat Blu-ray Disc™ entertainment system and smartphone-compatible multimedia apps. Toyota Highlander For families that need a little extra space, this Toyota 7-seater SUV has a functional interior with three rows of seating and fold-flat third-row seats when not in use. Help keep everyone comfortable in the back with standard three-zone automatic climate control and available second-row sunshades. Toyota 4Runner A heritage of toughness backs this seven-passenger vehicle from Toyota. It features advanced off-road capabilities and impressive towing capacity. Explore the road less traveled today. Toyota Sienna This Toyota 7-passenger vehicle has style with room to spare. Enjoy media apps, great fuel economy ratings with up to an EPA-estimated 36/36/36 (city/highway/combined) MPG rating and more. This seven-seater is as stylish as it is functional. Sequoia This powerful 7 seater vehicle seats up to 8 passengers, boasts an impressive 5.7L V8 engine, a spacious interior, and comes standard with TOW/HAUL Mode. Click here to browse our inventory with vehicles that offer 3rd-row seating.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross vs. 2022 Honda HR-V

In this crossover compact SUV comparison, we see the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross vs. 2022 Honda HR-V. See how the Corolla Cross blends versatility with capability. Click here to shop our Toyota Corolla Cross inventory.

Get better gas mileage with regular maintenance at Passport Toyota

Help improve gas mileage with routine maintenance on your vehicle. Passport Toyota is committed to providing the care and expert service that our guests come to trust. Our Toyota-trained technicians have spent thousands of hours understanding each and every Toyota vehicle and use only Genuine Toyota parts to service and repair your Toyota. Come see for yourself how our team of experts help keep your Toyota a Toyota. Passport Toyota is conveniently located in Suitland servicing Toyota's Suitland, Marlow Heights, and Clinton. Passport Toyota has expert technicians on staff to handle your repair needs or oil changes, tire rotations, battery replacement, brake repairs, and all other Toyota Factory Scheduled Maintenance. Get better gas mileage with regular maintenance: • Routine Maintenance • Check Tire pressure • Replace air filters • Maintain your vehicle with a tune-up Click here to view our service offers.

Passport Toyota offers alternate transportation while you wait for your vehicle to be serviced.

Passport Toyota offers alternate transportation while you wait for your vehicle to be serviced. Whether you need to get back home or drive to work, Passport Toyota provides many transportation options based on availability, service time, and location: LOANER: If a loaner car is available, Passport Toyota will provide a car for the time necessary to service your vehicle. For more information on our loaner policy, click here. RENTAL: If loaners are not available, Passport Toyota will connect you with a local car rental based on availability. RIDE-SHARE: Passport Toyota offers ride-sharing options for service customers, such as Uber or Lyft. For qualifying repairs*, we offer complimentary rides within 10 miles of the dealership! *Min. $100.00 repair/ maintenance or covered repair under warranty Click here to schedule service.

Toyota and ChargePoint Enhance EV Driving Experience with Home and Public Charging

In preparation for the launch of its all-new 2023 bZ4X battery-electric SUV later this year, Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (Toyota) announced today it will work with ChargePoint, Inc. (NYSE: CHPT), a leading EV charging network, to offer customers home and public EV charging solutions. “We want to instill a feeling of confidence in our bZ4X customers by providing a variety of charging options both at home and away to serve each customer’s unique charging needs and preferences,” said Christopher Yang, vice president of EV Charging Solutions at Toyota. “The ChargePoint home charger and public charging network will further enhance our customers’ ownership experience of the bZ4X.” more For home charging, bZ4X customers will have the option to purchase a ChargePoint® Home Flex Level 2 charger from participating Toyota dealerships or directly from ChargePoint online. ChargePoint Home Flex is ENERGY STAR® certified and Wi-Fi enabled, can be installed indoors or out, comes with a 23-foot charging cable to support different parking configurations and can charge electric vehicles up to nine times faster than a standard outlet. Translated for the bZ4X, the home charger can charge up to 25 miles of range per hour and fully charge the battery when plugged in overnight. To install the ChargePoint Home Flex, Qmerit has been selected to help guide bZ4X customers through the process of locating a certified EV charger installer, offering an initial free quote and additional services to support them all the way through to installation completion. “Qmerit is delighted to offer its residential installation services to bZ4X customers, as over 80% of all L2 charging in the U.S. takes place at home,” said Tracy K. Price, founder and CEO of Qmerit. ChargePoint also offers an extensive public network of Level 2 and Level 3 (DC fast) chargers, including roaming partner stations, across North America. With a vast network of charging stations to choose from, bZ4X drivers can access more than 80% of charging spots in North America, providing them the opportunity to charge when, where and how they want. In utilizing ChargePoint public charging APIs, Toyota offers seamless access to bZ4X drivers with the convenience of being able to quickly find, use and pay for vehicle charging via the Toyota App. “This arrangement combines Toyota’s market leadership in technology and quality for the next generation of mobility with ChargePoint’s leadership in delivering accessible charging solutions where drivers live, work and play. Together with Toyota, we want to provide a high-quality charging experience for new bZ4X drivers at home and on the road,” said Pasquale Romano, president and CEO of ChargePoint. When it goes on sale, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X will combine Toyota’s legendary reputation for quality and reliability with the performance and practicality drivers want in a modern battery electric SUV. “As we look to expand our lineup of battery electric vehicles, we look forward to offering our customers the excitement, ease and convenience of owning a battery electric vehicle as we work together and drive towards carbon neutrality,” said Yang.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us at Passport Toyota

We are so lucky to have you all as customers. Wishing you the luck of the Irish this St. Patty's Day and all the year through! Thank you for your continued patronage.

The lineup of electrified vehicles continues to grow at Passport Toyota

ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES HYBRID • PLUG-IN HYBRID • FUEL CELL ELECTRIC • BATTERY ELECTRIC As our lineup of electrified vehicles continues to grow, discover an impressive balance of efficiency and power—whichever powertrain you choose. (bZ4X and Tundra i-FORCE MAX shown. Available by mid-2022.) Get to Know Our Diverse Electrified Lineup Learn about the different ways an electrified Toyota makes every day happen. Click here for inventory and to learn more about Toyota electrified vehicles.

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