The Toyota Tacoma is America’s top choice in the midsize pickup truck class. Whether you’re looking for a powerful and dependable utility truck for work or spend your weekends on off-roading adventures, the Tacoma is a perfect choice. With an amazing reputation as an off-road truck and many customizable options to choose from, the Tacoma provides the best value for the price. The Tacoma has a solid base of fans to attest to its exceptional quality and performance. Here are five things drivers love about the 2021 Toyota Tacoma:

Excellent Performance

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by M.CERASOLI

The 2021 Tacoma standard engine is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder that delivers 159 horsepower, has 180 pound-feet of torque, and can haul up to 3,500 pounds. There is also an available 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine that provides 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It can tow up to 6,800 pounds when properly equipped and has a maximum payload of 1,685 pounds. Boats, UTVs, or campers — the Tacoma can pull them all.

The standard drivetrain is rear-wheel drive with available four-wheel drive. The standard transmission is a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual is available. 

The fuel economy of the 2.7-liter four-cylinder is an estimated 20 city mpg , 23 highway mpg, and 21 mpg combined. The 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine gets an impressive 19 city mpg, 24 highway mpg, and 21 mpg combined.

The 2021 Tacoma is available in two different cab sizes. Access Cab has two doors and seats up to four passengers and allows for a 6-foot truck bed. The Double Cab seats up to five and has four doors, and the truck bed is available in 5-foot or 6-foot lengths. There are six trim levels to choose from including SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro.  

The engine has superb performance for its class, and the Tacoma has above-average towing capabilities for a midsize truck.

Outstanding Reliability

Toyota automobiles in general are known for their reliability and durability, and the Tacoma remains true to brand. Drivers love the fact that whether buying new or used, the Tacoma has proven to be one of the most reliable trucks on the market. The 2015 model has a reputation for being the pinnacle year for the Tacoma’s reliability standard, topping the charts for reliability and performance.

To help boost its reliability, the Tacoma has excellent technology and safety systems. Remote Connect technology is available, which lets you access certain vehicle capabilities through your smartphone. The Tacoma has connectivity capabilities that provide easy access to all your music and apps. There are many standard and available safety features, such as a backup camera system, six different driver assistance features, a lane departure alert, and a blind-spot monitor with a rear cross-traffic alert.

Excellent Off-Roading Abilities

Its outstanding off-road capability may be the thing that drivers love most about the Tacoma. You would have a hard time finding a truck in its class that has better off-roading abilities than the Tacoma. With its exceptional performance on tough terrain, the Tacoma almost seems to drive better off-road than on the road. 

The Tacoma is the workhorse of utility trucks, and its durability and ability to ride on nearly anything will come in handy on the job site. When the weekend comes, the Tacoma is ready to hit the trails with its quality suspension and shock absorbers. For thrilling off-road excursions, the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims are the best options.

Impressive Staying Power

Legendary for its longevity, drivers love to report that they are getting 400,000 and even 500,000 miles out of their Tacomas. Not many trucks these days have the ability to make it into the half-million-mile range, so this is an impressive feat — especially when you consider the fact that most Tacomas aren’t gently used vehicles. This rugged truck is truly built to go the distance. 

The Tacoma is highly customizable, and there are many options available for embellishing the truck and boosting its already impressive performance. When you purchase a Tacoma, your next step will be to personalize this vehicle with your favorite add-ons and accessories.

Tacomas are surprisingly durable, which makes their impressive off-roading capabilities even more appreciated. The number of older-model Tacomas on the road today is a powerful testimony to the staying power of this durable truck.

Remarkable Resale Value

Reliability plus longevity add up to an excellent resale value for the Tacoma. The truck does not depreciate like others in its class, and they often generate a better price than similar used trucks. Because of the Tacoma’s solid reputation over the years and high reliability scores, it retains its value much better than many other vehicles and drives up the resale price. 

This also means that if you want to purchase a used Tacoma, you will be making a wise investment. Your vehicle will hold up over time, and when you’re ready to move on, you can be assured that your Tacoma is one of the best trucks on the market for holding its value. The Tacoma has remained on the top of the chart for the best resale value of a truck for years now.

The Tacoma is loved by many drivers. From its numerous options, including two different cab styles and truck bed sizes, to its long-lasting superior performance, the Tacoma is a truck that will never go out of style. Whether you purchase a new Tacoma or a used model, you will be very satisfied with its power and endurance. When maintained properly, this truck will give you value for many years and miles to come.

We hope that we’ve helped you to see just how much there is to love about the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. We are here at Panama City Toyota to answer any additional questions you may have about this particular truck, or any other automotive questions or concerns you may have. Contact us online, or we invite you to stop in to speak to our talented team directly so you can check out our current inventory of Tacomas and other trucks and SUVs.

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Buying a new or used car for the first time should be fun and exciting. Yet, because you’ve never purchased a car before, how do you avoid potential pitfalls? At Panama City Toyota, we created this first-time buyer’s guide to help you out. We want you to drive off our lot in the car of your dreams, confident that you made the right choice and received a great deal. If you follow our guide, you’ll be satisfied. When it’s time to purchase another vehicle or recommend a dealership, we want you to think of us first.

Understand Your Budget

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by RL GNZLZ

The first step to buying a car begins with you working out your budget. How much car can you afford? If you plan on paying cash, you have your answer in your bank account. You want to keep in mind sales tax, delivery fees, and such, but you can easily stay within your budget.

If you plan on financing, understanding your budget gets more complicated. How much can you afford in a monthly payment? Totaling up your monthly expenses and subtracting them from your income gives you an available number. We don’t recommend spending up to this number on a car payment. You have to have money to pay for car insurance and fuel, plus you still want to have a life. What good can the freedom of having a car be if you don’t have the gas money to go anywhere or the spending money to go out with friends?

Check Your Credit Score

Before shopping for a new or used vehicle you plan on financing, we recommend checking your credit score. Several online services do this for free. Your credit score will determine the interest rate you qualify for, so if you have a low score, you’ll get a higher interest rate. The higher the rate, the higher the monthly payment, so if you can improve your credit before applying for a car loan, you’ll get a lower rate. The lower the rate, the lower the monthly payment, which translates to more buying power for your dollar.

Shop For Car Loans First

Before rushing to Panama City Toyota to buy a car, you should shop around for car loans first. If you’ve checked your credit score and are happy with it, you should be able to secure a good loan. A low interest rate doesn’t automatically make the loan good. If you save 1% on your interest rate but have two more years on your loan, are you saving money? 

It would be best if you keyed on finding the right balance between interest rate and loan length that falls within your budget. Our finance department can help you. They are experts at finding the best deal regardless of your credit history. We’ve streamlined the process as well, allowing you to get pre-approved for a car loan online. 

Assess Your Vehicle Needs

Understanding why you need a vehicle goes beyond simple freedom of movement. Students might want something inexpensive to buy and efficient to operate. Business professionals might wish for something more luxurious and spacious. New families often want to have the room available in their vehicle to support future additions to the family. If you have a long daily commute, you probably want a blend of comfort, reliability, and efficiency.

We also recommend you make a list of those features you need, whether it’s 4×4 capability, passenger volume, or technology. Remember that what you need and what you want are two different things. You can make a list of what you want, separate from what you need, which you can use to help make a final decision if necessary.

By creating a list of needs, you’ll avoid wasting money buying a car with features you won’t use. For instance, a truck with 4×4 capability costs thousands more than one with only two-wheel drive. If you never go off-road, why pay for a feature you’ll never use?

Do Your Research

Now that you’ve assessed your budget, checked your credit, and have an idea of what type of loan you qualify for, you should have a good idea of which vehicles to shop for. We recommend researching new Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs online at Panama City Toyota. We have all the latest information on 2021 models to help you find the right vehicle. 

If you plan to buy a used car, we recommend checking the value of any vehicle you’re considering. Several companies provide this service free. Knowing the value of a vehicle before you enter negotiations will help you get the best deal possible. At Panama City Toyota, we have a vast selection of pre-owned Toyota vehicles. And because of our sales volume, our used inventory of trade-ins spans nearly every manufacturer. Our selection constantly changes, so we encourage you to search online for used vehicles often.

Take A Test Drive

Don’t ever buy a car without taking it for a test drive. It may have all the features you love and be in excellent condition, but the feel of the car may not suit you. It could be the comfort of the seat or the feel of the road, but you’ll never know until you take it for a test drive.

Have It Inspected By A Mechanic

A good time to have a mechanic inspect a potential vehicle would be on your test drive. Most dealerships have no problem with this. If you find resistance to getting a mechanic to look at a car, you should be concerned. A mechanic will give the car a full inspection and provide you with a detailed report of what, if anything, needs attention. You can then make an informed decision on whether to buy the car, ask for repairs first, or negotiate the price down accordingly.

Buying a new or used car for the first time should be an exciting experience that ends with you in the vehicle of your dreams. Whether you live in Lynn Haven, Callaway, or across the bay in Southport or Panama City Beach, Panama City Toyota will make your car buying experience one you’ll want to repeat and recommend to friends and family.

At Panama City Toyota, we have an expansive selection of new and pre-owned Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs ready to sell at great prices. We invite you to contact us with questions or visit our showroom. One of our friendly, professional staff will show you those vehicles that fit your needs and budget and let you take your favorite for a test drive.

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Panama City, Florida, is known for its fun-filled days, but what happens when the sun sets? The entertainment doesn’t stop just because there’s no more natural light, of course. This thriving nightlife is coupled with a welcoming atmosphere, guaranteeing you a time to remember. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to check out everything these must-visit spots have to offer.

Longboards Restaurant and Bar

Image via Unsplash by @louishansel

8746 Thomas Drive

Longboards Restaurant and Bar serves a wide variety of food, aiming to please just about any palate. Try the gourmet tacos, delicious pizzas, or mouthwatering burgers before you bust a move. After you eat, head upstairs to the restaurant’s Tsunami Club, which features some of the beach’s most popular DJs playing dance music.

If you’re more of a wallflower, that’s perfectly fine. Stick to the main level and watch your favorite game on one of the 30-plus televisions. Longboards also has two of the largest television screens on the beach. The establishment opens at 11 a.m. each day. Closing time is 10 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, midnight Wednesday, 10 p.m. Thursday, and 4 a.m. Friday and Saturday. 

Ms. Newby’s

8711 Thomas Drive

A local favorite, Ms. Newby’s has been in business for more than 45 years. The owners have expanded their reach in Panama City by adding two other locations: Brew & Booze House and Newby’s Too with the Endzone Sports Bar. Each of these facilities houses a package store that features a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits, and cigars. Also, all sites have bars known for their signature drinks, such as the Hunch Punch.

If you’re looking for some entertainment, you’re in luck, as the bars all have ongoing events, including karaoke and live music. Every Thursday through Saturday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m., Ms. Newby’s hosts Karaoke Mania, while on Wednesdays at 9 p.m., you can enjoy open mic night. The bars also remain open until 4 a.m., so you can extend your night out a little longer than most Panama City nightlife spots.

Patches Pub & Grill

4723 Thomas Drive

Open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, Patches Pub & Grill is one of the places to be, especially if you’re looking for delicious food and live entertainment. Its made-to-order pizzas are topped with delicious pizza sauce, a special house blend of cheese, and your favorite toppings. You can also try the wings, which come with your choice of mild, medium, or very hot sauce. This establishment hosts live music almost every night of the week from 6-10 p.m. Head outside to the patio to listen to the music while smelling the sea air.  

Schooners

5121 Gulf Drive

Called the Last Local Beach Club as one of the last open-air hangouts left on the Gulf Coast, Schooners serves delicious dinner and has stunning sunset views. Known as The Beach Party back in the 1960s, the establishment changed hands in 1985, and Jim Canon renamed it Schooners. Although many people believe it was in reference to the ship, the name came from a time when Jim was sitting in Australia drinking an ice-cold schooner of beer when he learned this bar was for sale. He cut his vacation short and flew back to Florida to purchase it.

Schooners is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., as well as Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Make sure you come early for its nightly sunset celebration, in which it fires off an old cannon at sunset to celebrate the end of another beautiful day and the beginning of the night. This happens rain or shine. Then stick around and enjoy live music from local artists. 

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

700 S. Pier Park Drive, Suite 700

Although the original Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is found in Nashville, Tennessee, this Panama City location brings a little bit of country music to Florida. Hattie “Tootsie” Louis Tatum purchased the original location in 1960, and she got the inspiration for the bar’s name from a painter who used an orchid color to paint her new purchase. Over the years, famous customers have included Waylon Jennings, Patsy Cline, and Willie Nelson, who received his first songwriting job after performing here. She opened the Panama City establishment in 2008, and it has hosted live entertainment weekly.

During the summer, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m., although the kitchen closes at 9 p.m. Keep in mind that every evening from 6 until 8 p.m., children under the age of 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. After 8 p.m., only those age 21 and older are allowed inside the establishment.

Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Bar and Grill

1151 Bayview Ave.

Located in historic St. Andrews, Uncle Ernie’s Bayfront Bar and Grill provides fantastic food and an incredible view. This quaint home dates back to the late 1800s, making it one of the oldest in the area. The family bequeathed the home to the area to serve as a restaurant and landmark near St. Andrews Marina. You might think the home seems small from the outside, but it has ample space for you to enjoy a night out in Panama City.

The extensive menu features many seafood dishes, pasta, steak, chicken, and sandwiches. Don’t forget to look at the drink menu, which has more than a dozen specialty cocktails. Try The Sassy Senorita, the watermelon margarita, or the best-selling Brazillian Kiss. After grabbing a bite and drink, stick around for some live music, which occurs nightly from 7-10 p.m. The restaurant itself is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

What do you think of this list by Panama City Toyota? No matter what your scene, are you ready to hit one of these Panama City spots to enjoy a little nightlife? Or did we happen to miss one of your favorite places? If we did, please let us know so we can add it to our list.

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The beaches in Panama City cover 27 miles of gorgeous shoreline with over 100 access points. There’s nothing quite like the soft, white, sugary sand between your toes, the sun bouncing off the brilliant shades of blue ocean, and listening to the waves crash onto the shore. While all 27 miles of beach are majestic, there are variations in the coast making it easy for you to find the ideal spot. There are beaches for families, collecting shells, going on excursions, snorkeling, or enjoying isolated quiet. Each beach is unique, so you may want to visit them all. Here are some favorites.

Panama City Beach And Pier 

Location: 16101 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach is at the heart of the oceanfront lifestyle. An active and popular beach, it’s lined with over 100 shops and restaurants. This is a great first beach to visit on your trip to Panama City since it’s centrally-located and home to the landmark Russell-Fields Pier. The beach itself has perfect sand for building sandcastles and clear blue water for swimming and surfing. The pier has a small $3 daily fee, runs 1,500 feet into the Gulf of Mexico, and is an excellent place to go fishing or take a sunset walk.

Shell Island 

Location: Take the Shell Island Shuttle out of St. Andrews Park

There is a wide variety of shells and sand dollars on Shell Island, and even the occasional conch. But the beautiful island lends itself to more than shell searching. You can walk around the entire island observing wildlife like deer, crabs, loggerhead sea turtles, and green sea turtles. This island is also ideal for playing in the water and swimming. Pack everything you need for the day, like drinks, food, and sunscreen, because the island is primitive. The easiest way to access the island is a shuttle or ferry from St. Andrews Park. Check the fees and schedules before you go.

Camp Helen State Park

Location: 23937 Panama City Beach Pkwy., Panama City Beach, Florida

Unique from other Panama City Beaches, Camp Helen State Park is ecologically impressive. There is a combination of freshwater from the surrounding lakes and saltwater from the Gulf. If you are looking for bright white sands, natural undisturbed beauty, and a quiet place to relax and read a book, this beach is for you. There is a 183 acre park with activities like birdwatching, fishing, hiking, biking, and swimming. However, there are no lifeguards on duty. The hiking trails pass through various habitats like wetlands, salt marshes, sand pine scrubs, and costal dunes. Don’t miss out on this picturesque beach.

Schooners

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by kansasphoto

Location: 5121 Gulf Drive, Panama City Beach, Florida

Schooners beach has a laid back yet social vibe. It’s a great spot to join a pick-up volleyball game, chat on the deck of an oceanfront patio with a drink in your hand, or hang out with friends by a bonfire. Schooners restaurant provides the beach with live music and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. A unique bonus: every night at sundown they fire a cannon. The beach is ideal for swimming, surfing, and building sandcastles. There’s even a live webcam where you can view wave conditions or see how crowded the beach is before you go.

St. Andrews State Park

Location: 4607 State Park Lane, Panama City Beach, Florida

Formerly a military reservation turned state park, St. Andrews is for water sport enthusiasts. There’s a large variety of ocean activities all in one spot, like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and canoeing. The sugar sand, jade water, and calm shallows behind the jetties are perfect for water activities. There’s also a concession stand and pavilion for a shaded picnic. Local rent shops provide a way to rent water equipment or bikes for the nature trails. There’s lots of wildlife for fishing and birdwatching. If you want to stay overnight, full facility campsites are available. The park has an entrance fee.

Dog Beach 

Location: 16230 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida

If your dog came with you on your Panama City vacation, then you’ll love this pet-friendly beach. Dog Beach is easy to locate near the Russell-Fields Pier and is over 400 feet long. You and your pup will appreciate the white sand while soaking up the sun and stretching your legs. The oceanfront area, devoted to dogs and their owners, is great to visit both in the hot summer months or the cooler off-season months. Remember to pack extra essentials like water for your thirsty pup on hot days, a leash, a towel for sandy paws, and clean-up bags.

Rick Stelzer Park 

Location: 7419 Thomas Drive, Panama City Beach, Florida

If you want to see natural sand dunes, then the public beach access at Rick Stelzer Park is for you. The almost 5-acre park has a section of undeveloped beach with gulf dune systems for preservation and education. Interactive educational displays show how the dunes and beach environment interact. The beach and park have picnic areas, swimming, park benches, and restroom facilities. A nice perk is how secluded the beach feels, even though it’s close to shopping and restaurants. Rick Stelzer Park is worth visiting, if only for a couple hours.

M.B. Miller Pier

Location: 12213 Front Beach Road, Panama City Beach, Florida

The M.B. Miller Pier and the surrounding beach is super family friendly. This oceanfront stretch has lots of public beach access spots and many options for lodging accommodations. There are lots of beach activities like sandcastle building competitions, sand volleyball and beach yoga. There is a small daily fee for access to the pier, but it’s one of the major reasons visitors love this beach. The pier is an excellent place to walk along and watch the sunset or go fishing during the day. The pier office provides day fishing licenses, bait, and rod rentals for anglers.

Here at Panama City Toyota, we love spending quality time at the beach. There’s nothing better than soaking up the sun on sandy white beaches, swimming through the waves, and feeling the cool ocean breeze. With so many beaches to choose from, we’d love to hear about your favorite Panama City beach so we can add it to our list. Contact us today!

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When you reach the end of your Toyota lease, you need to return your vehicle, trade it in, or make arrangements to buy the car for whatever amount is still owed on the purchase price of the vehicle. You will want to prepare a checklist and make sure you have everything ready to go before taking your Toyota vehicle into the dealership.

At Panama City Toyota, we want this process to be as simple as possible for you. If you will be trading in a vehicle or returning your Toyota lease vehicle soon, here’s a general overview of the return process. Your specific lease terms may require slightly different steps. 

What To Do Before Returning Your Toyota Lease Vehicle 

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by krystian_o

Start by examining your vehicle and look for any signs of excessive wear and tear. You should consider making any necessary repairs. It will be cheaper for you to make these repairs than be assessed any penalties for damage when you return the vehicle. 

The originating Toyota dealer is the one who is required to accept the leased vehicle return, but you should contact your local Toyota dealer to make an appointment for turning in your lease vehicle. 

Verify your payments and fees are handled. You should make sure you don’t owe any money to Toyota Financial Services (TFS). Once you have verified all payments and fees are up to date, schedule the complimentary inspection appointment. This appointment should be done between 15 and 60 days before your vehicle maturity date. You can speak with your local dealer for further instructions or call AutoVin at 855-40-MY-TFS. If you make any repairs after your inspection, you need to let TFS know, as they will need another inspection when you bring the vehicle in. 

Another helpful checklist item is to check with the DMV to determine whether you need to return the license plates when the lease ends. 

What To Do During Your Inspection 

Before you leave for your inspection or lease-return appointment, make sure you have all of the following documents and equipment: 

• All sets of keys.
• Toyota owner manuals.
• Spare tire and tool kit, if applicable.
• All original equipment, such as cargo cover, radio, vehicle headrests, etc. 
• Mileage information along with a signed Odometer Disclosure Statement. Keep a copy for your records.

When you are at the Toyota dealer, confirm they will accept your lease return. Jot down the name of the dealer associate who helps you with the return. If you did not have an inspection appointment before your return appointment, the dealer will complete one within a few days of returning the vehicle. 

After Your Toyota Lease Vehicle Is Returned 

Once you’ve returned your Toyota lease vehicle, there are still a few things left to do. You should receive a final invoice that will show any unpaid payments, miscellaneous charges, late fees, etc. Fees will include any charges for excessive wear and tear and excessive mileage. You should also contact Toyota Financial Services to determine whether you qualify to have your disposition fee waived, which could save you up to $350. 

If you paid a security deposit, Toyota will return send a check to your home address. Be advised that your check will be reduced if you owe any lease end charges. Don’t forget to cancel any automatic payments you have set up through Toyota Financial Services. 

Toyota Early Lease Return 

Some people may need to return their leased vehicle early. If you are active military, the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA) will allow eligible service members to terminate their lease prior to the maturity date without any termination fees or charges. Under the Gold Star Military Program, eligible service members may be allowed to terminate their lease early in the event of death, catastrophic illness, or injury. However, you must contact TFS directly to determine eligibility for either program. 

When a lease customer passes away, someone may be able to take over the lease with permission, but you must speak with TFS to determine the applicable criteria. There is also a Probate Lease Cancellation program that may allow for early termination that may include forgiving the remainder of payments. 

Returning your Toyota lease more than 31 days before the maturity date is also possible. TFS will need to calculate your early return balance and send you an invoice within 60 to 120 days of returning your vehicle. The reason for the delay is TFS may determine your balance once your vehicle is sold at auction. 

Trading Your Toyota Lease Vehicle In 

Another option is to trade your Toyota lease vehicle in for another one. Trading in a lease vehicle differs from trading in one that’s privately owned. Even if you are not trading it in early, you could still have fees and penalties you need to cover. Situations where it might be wise to trade your Toyota lease vehicle include when you have a large fee for excessive wear-and-tear, or you went way over your allotted mileage. Always calculate these fees to determine which option makes the most financial sense. 

When you trade your leased Toyota in, one of two things happen: 

• The dealer will pay off the lease balance and use the wholesale value as trade credit, minus any termination charges. 
• The dealer will pay for the remainder of your lease payment and return it to the company. However, you have no trade-in credit and you’ll still owe all end-of-lease charges.  

Buying Your Toyota Lease 

Another option at the end of your lease is to purchase the vehicle. If you are considering buying your current lease vehicle, you need a Toyota payoff quote. You can contact TFS at 800-286-0652. A Toyota Certified Leasing Expert can help walk you through the process and even schedule an in-person appointment to go over all the details. 

There are multiple reasons some people choose to buy out their Toyota lease rather than return it. They might have negotiated a lower buyout price, love the vehicle, want to sell it privately, and more. Whatever your reasons are, contact Panama City Toyota to see how we can help you return or trade in your lease vehicle or help you purchase it. 

If you have additional questions about returning or trading in your lease, contact Panama City Toyota today. 

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You’re in the market for a new car and trying to decide whether to lease or buy, but unsure which will better fit your needs. Leasing and buying have advantages and disadvantages, so it depends on what’s most important to you. To make an educated choice that you’ll be happy with, Panama City Toyota is here to help.

Leasing A Car

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by automobileitalia

When it comes down to it, leasing is like an extended rental of a car. This type of auto financing allows you to rent a car from a dealership for a fixed length of time, with limited mileage included. You’ll make monthly payments for the duration of your lease. At the end of your lease period, you’ll return your vehicle to the dealership. You won’t own your vehicle unless you buy out your lease if you decide to keep your vehicle. However, that choice is only available if you’ve chosen to include that option in your lease.

To lease a car, you’ll need a good credit score. The typical Experian score needed to lease a vehicle averages 733. On the other hand, Fico scores that average 670 or above are considered good. It’s important to remember that although you don’t own your vehicle, your lease payment will be tracked and be part of your ongoing credit score. Late payments and the uneven history of payments will lower your credit score. Most leases require a down payment, the amount of which will vary according to your existing credit score.

The Pros and Cons of Leasing a Car

An advantage to leasing a car is you’ll be getting a new vehicle each time you lease. Your monthly payments are also lower than the fees associated with payments for financing a car through a traditional loan. The dealership covers your maintenance costs, and they’re responsible for repairs. Moreover, if you need a fancy car, perhaps for your work image, leasing can provide you with a more expensive car than you could otherwise afford.

Another plus to leasing a car is that you won’t have to have as large of a down payment as is usually required when purchasing a vehicle. Another pro is you get to drive a brand new car every few years. Also, if you like the notion of not having to pay for the upkeep of a vehicle as it gets older, there’s something nice about being able to drive a car in its prime before it shows significant signs of wear and tear, or starts being prone to needing repairs.

The cons are that you won’t own your car, you have limited miles, and you’ll be charged if you go over the mileage limit. You’re paying for a car that’ll never be an asset. There are also fees associated with the early termination of your lease agreement. For example, if you decide you don’t like your vehicle or find it doesn’t suit your needs anymore, you will end up paying additional fees to get out of your lease prematurely. The dealership also has costs they’ll charge you, even if you make it to the end of your lease period.

Buying A Car

When you buy a car, you own it permanently, or for as long as it lasts, or until you decide to trade it in to a dealership or sell it privately to an individual. You can either buy a car with all cash or take out a loan to finance the vehicle, which most people usually do. Even with a loan, most car dealerships require a down payment. The lower your credit score, the higher your down payment amount will usually be.

Buying a Car With Cash vs. Financing a Car With a Loan

Unless you have a substantial amount of cash on hand, you’ll need a car loan.  You can find applications for loans online. Ideally, you want to get a preapproved loan. It factors your budget and gives you an interest rate to compare to the dealer’s financing rate. You may also find that the dealer can offer you the lowest annual percentage rate. At the same time, you’ll want to check your bank or credit union’s webpage or prominent lenders, including Nationwide or Capital One. Your research should give you a good idea of which lender offers the best financing for your needs.

You’ll need to gather documentation to apply for a car loan. Compile your salary and employer information and the balances of any debt you may hold. Make sure that you’ll be ready within about two weeks after seeking loan pre-approval to go car shopping. This strategy is designed to reduce the number of hard inquiries to your credit. Hard inquiries negatively affect your credit score, and therefore should be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, you get to circumvent all those steps if you pay with cash, and you’ll own your car outright from the start, so it’s also instant equity.

Pros and Cons of Car Ownership

One of the pros of owning your car is building equity and working toward full ownership. At the end of your loan period, you fully own an asset. Your vehicle will also have a trade-in value when it’s time to buy another car. In addition, you won’t have a limit on how many miles you can drive. On the other hand, some of the cons of owning a vehicle are that you’re solely responsible for your car’s maintenance, your monthly payment on your loan is higher than the monthly lease cost, and your vehicle depreciates in value as time goes on.

The End of the Road: Making your Choice

If you keep these differences in mind, you should determine whether leasing or buying a car is more suitable for your purposes. Panama City Toyota can also be a good resource for explaining what deals we currently offer. Our knowledgeable team would be happy to assist you in comparing leasing vs. buying on any of our available vehicles. Contact us today to set up an appointment or just drop in and we’ll show you around. We work hard to make sure you get your dream car with the lease or ownership you desire.  

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There are many excellent restaurants and exciting attractions to visit in Panama City, Florida. But expenses can add up quickly, and sometimes you want to do things that aren’t too costly. Panama City Toyota wants to share this list of free things to do in Panama City to help you come up with some ideas for no-cost fun and entertainment.

Do Some Window Shopping

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by LucasArtoni

Window shopping is a great free activity and there is plenty of opportunity for window shopping in Panama City. Pier Park is one of the area’s largest shopping centers. It sits on 2 million square feet and has over 250 retail stores, restaurants, and attractions to explore. There is an outdoor play area that contains a bungee jump ride, bumper boats, and a passenger train. Pier Park often features music or other live entertainment.

You can spend time browsing many other specialty shops in Panama City. Shell Port Inc. has the largest selection of nautical-related gifts and seashells in the area and claims to have over 4 million shells in stock. 

Decor By the Shore is a trail of 15 charming shops to explore. You can even get a “passport” from participating shops, collect 12 stamps by visiting featured shops, and submit it to receive a free souvenir from the Panama City Beach Visitor Information Center.

Visit The Local Beaches

There are 27 miles of beaches along the coastline of Panama City. You can pack a picnic, some sunscreen, a beach umbrella, and towels and easily spend a whole day enjoying time together on the beach. End your day of beach fun by watching the glorious sunset over the water.

Panama City Beach is a free 8-mile-long beach and probably the most popular beach in Panama City with its lovely white sand and sparkling blue water. Panama City Beach is conveniently close to downtown attractions such as Pier Park, where you can browse over 100 shops and restaurants. There is free parking near the beach at the M. B. Miller County Pier or by the Russell Fields City Pier. 

Rick Seltzer Park is a 4.7-acre beach park that has public beach access and beautiful sand dunes to explore. Generally less crowded than Panama City Beach, this more remote beach has the same beautiful white sand and blue water. The park offers environmental educational resources on sand dunes and the local ecology. There is a pavilion and several picnic areas to use, along with a nature trail. There are also showers so you can remove excess sand before leaving for home. 

Go Hiking Or Biking

Panama City has many free choices of recreational activities that aren’t beaches. The 2,900-acre PCB Conservation Park has no admission fee and contains 24 miles of trails to explore, including a boardwalk that takes you over a swamp while you walk under a canopy of cypress trees. You are likely to see free-roaming wildlife while hiking or biking at the Conservation Park. 

Gayle’s Trails is a network of walking and cycling trails that connects PCB Conservation Park to Frank Brown Park. There are both paved and dirt routes in the system of trails so you can pick your favorite type for walking, running, hiking, inline skating, or cycling. Mapped routes of 12 different paths are available so you can choose the ideal distance for your excursion. This is also an excellent area for dog-walking.

The Pitt Spring Recreation Area is a slight drive from Panama City, but it’s a beautiful place for families to visit. You can spend the day swimming, tubing, and talking nature walks around the 40-foot round pool that gathers water from many small springs along Econfina Creek. You can also visit the nearby Ecofina River which the spring feeds into. Covered pavilions and picnic tables are available for use.

Another great recreational area is Under the Oaks Park, which has a large variety of outdoor entertainment for the whole family. There’s a playground and climbing area for kids, a nature trail, and an observation platform. There are also fishing areas and a place to launch canoes or kayaks, along with a course for a fun family game of disc golf.

Explore The Panama City Area

You may want to take a trip to the Panama City Beach Visitors Information Center. Even residents can learn something new about the community, and they provide brochures and coupons that can give you many ideas for things to do. They can also share even more ideas of free and reasonably priced activities in Panama City.

Visit Panama City Beach Library for browsing books, access to computers, or children’s programs. The library also offers many things you might not be aware of, such as 3D printing abilities, musical instruments to check out, or tutoring and classes you can take.

There is a weekly summer live music concert series at Aaron Bessant Park. The concerts are on Tuesday nights from June through August and feature a different artist each week. Whether your musical preference is rock-and-roll, country, blues, or jazz, you’ll be able to find genres you’ll enjoy. You can bring coolers, picnics, lawn chairs or blankets to sit on, and even your pets. Or visit the local marinas, where you can watch large ships and boats pull in and out of the harbor.

You may want to take a drive along Scenic Highway 30A. This is a 24-mile stretch of road in the Florida Panhandle that runs along the Gulf of Mexico and has beautiful scenery and a variety of small beach towns to visit. Beach communities such as Santa Rosa Beach or Blue Mountain Beach have public white-sand beaches, bike paths, and many beach shops to visit. You can pack a picnic lunch and spend a few hours savoring the peaceful coastal drive.

There are a wide variety of things to do for free in Panama City and Panama City Toyota wants to help you find them. How many of these suggestions have you already experienced? Were there any new ideas for free excursions that you would like to try? If you have additional ideas for more free things to do in Panama City, contact us so we can add them to future lists.

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Panama City lies in Northwest Florida along the shores of St. Andrew Bay off the Gulf Coast. A frequent target of hurricanes and tropical storms, it was badly damaged in 2018 by Hurricane Michael. However, that doesn’t stop the enterprising folks in Panama City from rebuilding and offering delicious burgers for locals and visitors alike to enjoy. Burgers are classic American sandwiches that can be customized to fit adventurous tastes and ethical choices. Panama City is home to a variety of fantastic burger joints. Here are five delicious options for you to try.

Jerry’s Burger Company

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by William Rasmussen

Jerry’s Burger Company proudly proclaims it does not serve fast food. This up-and-coming restaurant wants to serve the best premium smash burgers in town. One of its specialties is a unique three-cheese sauce for the cheese portion of the burgers, which packs a punch of gooey goodness. The premium burgers themselves are made fresh for each customer. You can choose from the preset burger menu or order a custom burger just the way you want it.

Jerry’s menu includes five types of all-you-can-eat fries — crinkle, steak, dipping, waffle, and sweet potato — and you can top them with any of the available seasonings. Not a fry lover? Try a side of jalapeño bombs or Wisconsin cheese curds. The boneless wings come in three sizes and multiple flavors, including buffalo, sweet teriyaki, and garlic parmesan. But the real reason you’re here is for the burgers, which are designed to be big, messy, and totally delicious. The Beer Bender is infused with a local brew and served with sauteed onions, pickles, and a honey-glazed bun.

Jerry’s is located at 1302 Harrison Avenue and open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed Sundays.

House Of Henry Irish Pub

House of Henry is an Irish pub serving good food and hosting live music. Here you can grab lunch inside the brick-walled building or stop by after work to enjoy the popular happy hour. The restaurant’s brew list has more than 30 selections, including ciders, craft ales, American favorites, European classics, and, of course, draft Guinness.

At House of Henry, you can choose from a menu of Irish-inspired items. Try the Irish Nachos, which are potato wedges loaded with toppings, the Lucky O’ onion rings, or a traditional Irish potato dish of Boxties, which are mashed potatoes with bacon and cheddar that are deep-fried and served with sour cream or chippy sauce. The many burger options include Henry’s Black and Blue Burger, a blackened patty with bacon, caramelized onions, and blue cheese crumbles melted on top, served on a brioche bun.

Find House of Henry at 461 Harrison Avenue, just minutes from the bay. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. the rest of the week.

Tally-Ho Drive In

The Tally-Ho Drive In is an old-fashioned burger and shake joint that has been offering classic American fare since 1949. Call ahead for a quick pickup through the drive-thru, or stop by the lot at 1449 Harrison Avenue for curb service. Tally-Ho also has plenty of seating on the outdoor patio if you want to stay awhile. All the meals use only fresh ingredients, and the food is made to order for each customer.

Tally-Ho’s menu has a variety of sides, shakes, sandwiches, and dinner combos. For a side order, try the fried okra or sour-cream-coated potato logs. The baskets of fried chicken, chicken tenders, shrimp, or pork come with a side of fries, or you can get them as dinners with fries, coleslaw, baked beans, fried okra rolls, or hush puppies. The Jumbo Burger gives you 7 ounces of fresh ground beef with all the condiments and additional cheese, or you can opt for the 4-ounce Regular Burger.

Tally-Ho Drive In is open from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and closed Sundays.

Bayou Joe’s Marina And Grill

This unique dining establishment is one you don’t want to miss. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner with beautiful 180-degree views of the water. Get here at sunset for an experience like no other. 

Bayou Joe’s offers “Old Florida” style food. You can get Bayou Tacos with grilled, fried, or blackened fish or shrimp or a fried shrimp po’boy. The delicious Trash Burger is the chef’s choice of ingredients that changes daily. Bayou Joe’s also serves a Kick’en Black Bean Burger for vegetarians and a Cajun Shrimp Burger that packs grilled shrimp and cheese on top of a 1/2-pound beef burger.

Bayou Joe’s is situated at 112A East 3rd Court on Massalina Bayou. It’s open Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and closed Tuesday.

The Place Downtown

The Place Downtown is a fun spot to stop and watch sports on the flat-screen, participate in a game of trivia, play the jukebox, or just have a drink and enjoy a good meal. On the menu, you’ll find a wide variety of cuisine, with tasty appetizers ranging from Tater Tots and onion rings to seared tuna and antipasto egg rolls. 

You can also order a 1/2-pound steak burger or a Beyond burger for a meatless option. Then build your own burger with your choice of bread, cook, cheese, and toppings, plus a side of fries, tots, or the side of the day. 

The Place Downtown is located in downtown Panama City at 429 Harrison Avenue, and it’s open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can dine inside or out front on the cozy patio.

Have you had any burgers from the places on this list? Do you have a favorite spot we’ve missed? At Panama City Toyota, we’d love to know what you think is the best burger in town. Contact us, and tell us which one you like most.

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Although modern cars are safer and more reliable than ever, there are still a million things that could go wrong while driving, especially on long-distance trips. From a simple flat tire to being stranded in a snowstorm, you need to be prepared for anything that nature or fate throws at you and the best way to do that is by putting together a roadside emergency kit.

Emergency Items For Your Car

Image via Unsplash by jumpstartexpert

The most likely issues that can occur during a road trip are typically related to your car not functioning the way it should. Although the side of the road is no place for complicated repair jobs and road assistance services are usually just a phone call away, you need to be prepared for situations when you can’t call for help and have to make it on your own. Also, you need to remember that any roadside intervention should be well-signaled with the help of triangle reflectors or flares, which should never be missing from your car, along with a fire extinguisher. 

The first items on the emergency car repair list should be a well-inflated spare tire, a tripod jack, and a wheel wrench. Although just like the triangle reflectors or flares, most car manufacturers provide you with them when you buy the car, you should still make sure that you know exactly where they are and how to use them. To save space, some carmakers choose to replace the classic spare tire with a tire patch kit or a narrower emergency substitute often referred to as a “donut,” so make sure you know which one you have.

Next on your list should be a pair of jumper cables. A car needs its battery to start the engine and even a small fault in the electrical system can leave you with no power. Luckily, you can borrow some from another car’s battery by connecting your positive and negative connectors to their correspondents on the other vehicle and keeping them connected while you start yours. Although you should take your car to the shop and identify the issue with your car’s electrical system, jump-starting it is a quick and easy way to safely continue your journey. 

Other items that you may need to quickly fix your car in case of a minor issue are a toolkit containing differently sized screwdrivers and wrenches, some extra gas in case you run out and there’s no station nearby, and a gallon of engine coolant in case you suddenly have a leak in the cooling system. If you drive around in areas with cold weather you also additional items like a shovel, snow brush, and some sand that you can put under your wheels to get some traction in case you get stuck. 

Emergency Items For Driver And Passengers

Although most roadside emergencies involve various issues with your vehicle, a well-built roadside emergency kit also contains plenty of items that can help the people affected by the problem. It’s very important to know that the first thing you should do in any roadside emergency involving injured people is to call 911 and ask for help. However, to do so you need a working phone, so it’s essential that you never go on a long trip without a cellphone car charger or a portable charger.

Once you’re sure you can call for help, you need to be able to offer first aid to anyone who needs it. A first aid kit usually contains essential items like band-aids, disinfectants, gauze, and other similar items that can help fix minor first-aid issues or mitigate major ones until help arrives. You should also have plenty of clean water with you to keep everyone hydrated, as well as compact and energy-rich food, like energy bars or granola. You may be stuck in the middle of nowhere for several hours so you and your passengers need to be prepared. 

Other items that may be useful are a fully charged flashlight, in case you need to repair something or offer first aid at nighttime, some blankets in case you need to wait for help in cold weather, and rain gear for situations where you need to change a flat tire in rainy weather. Other items, that are less essential but may come in handy if you need to entertain your kids while waiting for roadside help, are books, magazines, a deck of cards, board games, and other items that you and your passengers can use to entertain yourselves.

Storing And Using Your Roadside Emergency Kit

Once you’ve gathered all the items you need for your roadside emergency kit, you need to find a way of permanently storing them in your car without them taking too much space. The best way of doing so is by placing them all in a cardboard box or backpack and then putting it in a corner of your trunk. There are also special bags especially designed for this purpose and even ready-made emergency roadside kits that you can buy from auto shops or online. 

However, whichever way you choose to assemble and store your roadside emergency kit, it is crucial that you familiarize yourself with every item in there and learn how to use it. Simply having an emergency kit is a good safety measure, but when an emergency does occur you’ll likely not have the time and mental clarity to learn how everything works. Change a tire just to get the hang of it, check to see exactly what your first aid kit contains, and generally know exactly what’s in your kit and how they work.

Emergencies are usually the kind of things that you like to think will never happen to you, until one day they do. While emergency preparation is crucial if you want a safe and reliable car that you can count on in case of an emergency make sure you visit Panama City Toyota and choose from our long list of new and pre-owned vehicles.  

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There’s nothing worse than trying to start your car and hearing a clicking noise as you try to turn it over. That sound indicates your battery has died which means you aren’t going anywhere unless you get a jump start. Jump starting your car is easy, but you need to have the right equipment and sometimes friendly help from another motorist to get it done. Once you’ve got your car started, you need to let the battery charge before you head to Panama City Toyota in Panama City, Florida, to get your battery and alternator checked out. Here’s a look at how to jump start your car:

How To Tell If Your Car Battery Has Died

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Mic Z.

You usually won’t know if your car battery has died until you get into the car and find it doesn’t respond to an attempt to turn it over. A battery can hold enough charge to power the locks and interior lights, but not have enough amperage to turn over the engine. Everything may seem normal with the car until you try to turn the key or use the key fob. A totally flat battery won’t have enough power to open the locks whatsoever. 

Cars don’t typically warn you when your battery is going to die unless you pay attention to the voltmeter on the dashboard. The voltmeter is a standard gauge on the instrument cluster and has a graphic of a battery that denotes its purpose. It’s a good idea to learn the correct battery reading for your car to monitor how well its performing. You’ll know when the battery is in need of replacement because it won’t hold the correct charge. Another benefit of keeping track of the battery charge level is knowing if you have enough juice to turn the car over or if you need a jump. 

Tools You’ll Need To Jump Your Car

You’ll need simple, yet essential tools to jump your car when your battery dies. They include:

• Jumper cables
• Power

It’s a good idea to buy a pair of jumper cables and keep them in the back of your car for an emergency situation. Oftentimes, people are willing to help you jump your car, but don’t have jumper cables. You’re more likely to have success getting help if you have a pair of jumper cables handy. 

Jumper cables have large alligator clips at each end. They get their name from their hinged jaws and toothy clamps. Make sure that the teeth are clean and don’t have significant damage or corrosion. Also check that the cable connections are clean and the connecting wires aren’t broken. The energy transfer over the cables needs to be as unbroken as possible to make for a solid connection to your battery and the power source.

Another tool for jumping your car is a battery or power pack. This is a self-contained unit that has a pair of alligator clips, a voltmeter, and an internal battery that’s designed to store power for the long term. It’s important to keep the unit charged to avoid a situation where you have a dead car and a dead power pack. 

Preparing To Jump Your Car

Once you’ve determined your battery is dead, you need to open the hood to gain access to the battery. Before you open the hood, make sure your car is in park, and keep it in park at all times while you’re jumping the battery. 

Open the hood and locate the battery. Once you’ve found the battery, find the red and black (positive and negative) posts. There will be large clamps connected to each post that lead back into the car. Some cars don’t offer direct access to the battery, but will have posts or connectors that allow you to connect the jumper cable clamps. Check the clamps for corrosion (normal for older batteries), and use the jaws of the clip to knock off anything you find. You can put the clamp onto the post and use it to grind off corrosion. 

Place the red clamp onto the red or positive post first, then connect the black clamp onto the black or negative post. Make sure the clamps are firmly connected to the posts and won’t pop off as you go to connect the other end of the cables to the car that’s giving you the jump. Repeat this process for the other car. The car giving you the jump should be turned off. When you’re sure the cables are firmly connected, you can start the car giving you the jump. The same process applies to a portable charging pack.

Jumping Your Car

After the car giving you the jump has been started, you can return to your car and wait five to ten minutes. The battery needs time to get enough of a charge to turn your car over. After you’ve given the battery enough time to charge, you can try turning the key or using the key fob to start the engine. The engine will turn over if the battery has enough strength, and might make a grinding or clicking noise if not. Wait a little longer and try again. A car will turn over once the battery has enough charge, but holding a charge depends on the condition of the alternator. 

After your car has started, remove the jumper cables in reverse order. That is, take the negative clamp off first, then the positive. Let the car run for a few minutes before driving. Afterwards, drive your car around for at least 20 minutes to allow the battery to charge up. If the battery doesn’t keep a charge, it may be at the end of its life or the alternator has died and isn’t charging the battery. 

Come See Us At Panama City Toyota For Battery And Alternator Replacement

Call us at Panama City Toyota in Panama City, Florida, today for an appointment with our maintenance department. Our Toyota-trained technicians are here to help diagnose your car’s problem and replace what’s broken with OEM-quality parts. 

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