Can I Just Change One Tire?

Changing a tire is a common occurrence for most drivers, and it's not unusual to wonder if it's okay to change just one tire instead of replacing all four. After all, replacing all four tires can be expensive and seem unnecessary if only one tire is damaged or worn out. However, changing just one tire can have consequences that affect the vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. So, what is the solution?

This answer lies in the tread depth of the tires.

Tire’s Tread Depth:

The rubber tire’s tread depth gets measured in 32nd parts of an inch. You can find that new tires usually have 10/32 to 12/32 inches of tread. When you start using the vehicle, this depth depreciates, reducing the overall diameter of the tire.

That means you will be creating a difference in your vehicle’s tires’ tread depth by replacing just the damaged one. This can imbalance their performance, causing trouble for you. A few problems you may encounter by changing only one tire are:

• AWD System Damage: The difference in diameter of the tires can cause an AWD system to catch up on the dry pavement. This can sometimes damage the system. That is why almost every all-wheel-drive vehicle manufacturer recommends changing all tires simultaneously. So, they can function correctly.
• False Signals: When the tread depth of a front/ rear-wheel-drive vehicle is worn out more than half, the wheels start spinning faster. So, if you replace just one of them, you create a difference in the revolution rate. This can send false signals to the antilock braking and traction control systems.
• The difference in Working: Acceleration and braking of your vehicle depend on its tires’ grip. Changing only one tire can create a difference in the hold. Hence, affecting the vehicle’s behavior.

The Quarter Test

The quarter test is a simple way to check the tread depth of your tires. To perform this test, take a quarter and insert it into the grooves of your tire with George Washington's head facing down. If the top of Washington's head is covered by the tread, then the tire has at least 4/32" of remaining tread depth, which is the minimum legal requirement in most states. If the top of Washington's head is visible, it means the tire has worn out and needs to be replaced. This test is a quick and easy way to determine if your tires are still safe for use and can help prevent accidents due to poor traction. However, keep in mind that the quarter test only measures tread depth and does not account for other factors such as age, tire type, and driving conditions, which can also affect tire safety and performance.

What to Do:

The best solution is always to replace all four tires even when only one of them gets damaged. This will ensure that your vehicle works appropriately, and you don’t face any problems while driving it. However, you can even work with changing the axle’s two tires if you own a forward/ rear-wheel-drive vehicle.

When to Change a Single Tire:

There is one exception to this whole tire changing situation. You can go for a single tire replacement if none of the tires have worn out more than 4/32 of their tread depth. They can easily handle this much difference. So, it won’t be required to invest in all four new tires, but you must keep a few points in mind:

• The new tire should be shaved off its tread depth to match it to the older ones’ level. This will keep them balanced.
• The new tire should get mounted on the rear. This will help avoid hydroplaning, which can rotate the vehicle on a turn during the rainy season.

So Can You Change Just One Tire?

Whether it's okay to change just one tire depends on various factors such as the condition of the other tires, the type of vehicle, and the driving conditions. While replacing all four tires may seem costly and unnecessary at times, it's essential to prioritize safety and vehicle performance. When in doubt, visit our service center and ask the Toyota experts at Rocky Mount Toyota. Remember, taking proper care of your vehicle's tires can prolong their lifespan, save you money in the long run, and keep you and others safe on the road.

2021 Toyota 4Runner Vs. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Toyota has always been able to deliver a very high level of reliability and excellent build quality, both of which can be seen on the 2021 4Runner. While the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a brand new vehicle that looks rugged, it’s still not quite up to date with the mark height. Expect the Toyota 4Runner to have higher resale value in the US market in 2021. Here is a comparison between the various parameters of the two SUVs:

1. Off-Roading Ability- Both vehicles have strong off-road abilities, with them being able to tackle the toughest of terrains.
2. Length and Width- The 4Runner is marginally longer than the Grand Cherokee, but the latter is wider. What this means is that there is a little more space to sit inside the latter.
3. Seating Capacity-Although both are 4-door vehicles, the 4Runner can offer 7 seats, in comparison to 5 inside the Grand Cherokee. More family members will be able to travel comfortably in the former.
4. Trim Levels- Buyers can expect the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee to be available in the following trim levels:
5. Laredo E
6. Summit
7. 80th Anniversary Edition
8. Laredo X
9. Trailhawk®
10. High Altitude
11. Limited
12. Overland

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner offers one more trim in comparison to the above. Names of the trims are:

• Trail Special Edition
• TRD Off-Road Premium
• TRD Off-Road
• Limited
• TRD Pro
• SR5
• SR5 Premium
• Venture Special Edition
• Nightshade Special Edition

• Drivetrain– Both the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Toyota 4Runner are available with RWD (Rear-Wheel-Drive) and 4WD (4-Wheel-Drive).
• Engine Capacity– Expect the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee to be available with more engines as compared to the 2021 Toyota 4Runner. All these engines have been mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Here are the specifications for the Grand Cherokee’s powertrains:

Compared to the above, the 4Runner is available with a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 270 hp of power and 278 lb-ft of torque that has been paired to a 5-speed automatic transmission:

• Basic Warranty- Both vehicles get the same Basic Warranty, which is 3 years /36,000 miles.
• Rear Cargo Area- Clearly looking like the bigger SUV, the 4Runner easily beats the Grand Cherokee in terms of overall size. This translates into a bigger cargo area too, with the 4Runner offering 88.8-89.7 cubic feet in place of 68.3 cubic feet inside the Grand Cherokee.
• Towing Capacity- The Grand Cherokee has an advantage over the 4Runner in terms of towing capacity, as its 3.6-liter base engine can pull an impressive 6,200 pounds when upgraded to the 5.7-liter V8 that Trailer load increases to 7,200 pounds. You will be impressed with the 4Runner’s 5,000-pound trailer load.
• Tech-Savvy– The Grand Cherokee is also the most tech-savvy SUV here, featuring a new UConnect 5 infotainment system with a 10.1-inch screen and HUD (Heads Up Display). The 4Runner offers an 8.0 infotainment system. Inches without a HUD. optional high-quality Mcintosh audio system.

2021 Toyota Avalon

Some of the curviest, most powerful cars in the world are made by Japanese automakers, including the Nissan Skyline GTR, Mazda MX3, and Toyota Supra; They’re good at different car categories as well, as seen on the 2021 Toyota Avalon. Avalon is a sleek and stylish sedan with a commendable interior, like the compact SUVs on the American market. Japanese automakers too. They’re known for making fuel-efficient engines, and the Avalon doesn’t disappoint – the company also offers some hybrids. this limousine.

Different Trims available at Rocky Mount Toyota:

Buyers looking at the 2021 Toyota Avalon will get the following five trims to choose from:

• Touring
• Limited
• XLE
• XSE Night Shade
• TRD

Toyota offers hybrid variants of the trims Limited, XLE, and XSE. For the year 2021, the XSE Nightshade is a completely new trim. Customers will love the fact that many infotainment and safety features are available even with the base XLE trim level.

Exterior Appearance:

The headlights of the 2021 Toyota Avalon get a nice amber shell and are available with built-in indicators. Assemblies on the front grille make the vehicle appear muscular and taut, especially at the front. While the XLE can be found with wheels from 17-inch XSE, Nightshade Edition has 19-inch aluminum rims. Buyers will be happy about the sporty exhaust sound of the twin tailpipes at the rear.

Engine Details:

The following two engines are available in gas-powered variants of the 2021 Toyota Avalon:

• 3.5-liter V6 engine that puts out 301 hp of power and 267 lbs.-ft of torque
• 2.5 liter, 4-cylinder engine for 205 hp of power and 185 lbs.-ft of torque

The V6 naturally outshines the 2.5-liter engine in terms of power, enabling quick acceleration. Both engines are fitted with the same 8-speed automatic transmission. Toyota provides AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) for this vehicle, in addition to handling features like Traction Control and Hill Hold Assist.

Interior Appearance:

Space is not a premium anymore as this vehicle is able to offer 16.09 cubic feet of rear cargo space. Other rear features are as follows:

• 60:40 Split
• 2 USB Ports
• Rear AC vents

Expect to get the interior finish of high quality, with soft materials being visible all around. This is a very spacious family sedan, with five adults being able to sit comfortably. Features at the front include:

• Push Button Start/Stop
• 3 USB ports
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Large Center Console
• Manually Adjusted Sunroof
• Comfortable Seats (leather-trimmed front seats for the Limited)
• Sport, Eco, and Normal Drive Modes
• Modern HUD (Heads-Up Display) to check driving parameters
• Adequate space for cups and phones
• Heated Steering Wheel
• Wireless Charging Facility

Passengers will also be able to entertain themselves with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with 8 speakers. The system also gets features such as:

• Navigation
• Android Auto and Apple Car Play
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio

Safety Features:

Toyota Safety Sense™ P offers the following safety features for the 2021 Avalon:

• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Lane Keep Assist
• Pre Collision with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Cruise Control
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Adaptive Cruise Control

For more information on the 2021 Toyota Avalon or where to purchase one of your own, visit Rocky Mount Toyota’s website: https://www.rockymounttoyota.com/2022-toyota-avalon/

2021 Toyota 4Runner

Few vehicles can be out for both on-road and off-road adventures like the 2021 Toyota 4Runner. This mid-size SUV is a wonderful workhorse that can pull up to 5,000 pounds and gets a large cargo area. Honda would do well to give this vehicle a makeover.

Trims Available at Rocky Mount Toyota:

Toyota gives all its customers a lot of variant options to choose from. Here is a list of the nine trims available for the 2021 Toyota 4Runner:

• SR5 Premium
• SR5
• TRD Off-Road
• Trail Special Edition (new for 2021)
• Limited
• Venture Special Edition
• TRD Off-Road Premium
• TRD Pro
• Nightshade Special Edition

This practical SUV is available in both 5-seat and 7-seat layouts. Drive options for the 4Runner include RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) and 4WD (4 Wheel Drive).

Engine Performance:

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner comes with a standard 4.0-liter V6 that develops 270 horsepower and 278 lbs.-ft. of maximum torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel or all wheels via a 5-speed automatic transmission. mph in 7.7 seconds.

Exterior Appearance:

It is gratifying that all versions are equipped with LED headlights and LED fog lights as standard. Buyers will see the front underrun protection plates and the TRD Pro receives special aluminum underrun protection plates for off-road protection. The front grille of this vehicle has a generous radiator grille. The side mirrors are painted in the vehicle color, are electrically adjustable and can be heated, with the SR5 Premium and upper trim strips receiving integrated LED signals. Although the sides are muscular, they don’t protrude too much. but Nightshade and Limited have 20-inch alloy wheels. All variants are fitted with roof rails as standard. Expect a body-colored shark fin antenna in the rear and a rear window wiper. This vehicle has a flat rear, and the rear window is very easy to open or close. All trim strips have standard LED taillights and there is a single hidden tailpipe at the rear.

Interior Appearance:

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner is available with a manual tailgate that reveals a cargo capacity of just 9 cubic feet behind the third row; however, that number extends to 46.3 cubic feet when the second row is folded. Third row, but legroom could be better. Toyota has provided cup holders for the third row. In comparison, the second row is very comfortable. Buyers will see the rear AC vents and USB charging ports here. Further interior fittings are:

• Soft Touch Material (SR5 Premium, TRD Pro, TRD Off Road Premium, and Venture Special Edition)
• 8-way power adjustable seat with lumbar support
• Small Digital Display on Instrument Cluster
• Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel (all trims)
• 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Dual Zone Climate Control (Limited and above)
• Heated and Comfortable Seats
• Power Moonroof (Limited, Nightshade, TRD Pro)

Safety Features:

Active Safety Features in the Toyota Safety Sense program provides:

• Automatic High Beams
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection

For more information on the 2021 Toyota 4Runner and where to purchase one, visit our website: https://www.rockymounttoyota.com/2022-toyota-4runner/

Toyota Hybrids and Alternative Fuel Vehicles

The setup of elective fuel vehicles has extended over a couple of years, with cross breeds and elective fuel vehicles arising and how the prominence has risen essentially. Cross breed vehicles are in effect progressively progressed. The article examines the usefulness of the two kinds of vehicles and their presentation.

Cross breed execution:

The Toyota cross breeds are intended for an expanded proficiency, which guarantees an astounding presentation. Here are the well-known cross breed models of Toyota.

• 2021 Corolla Hybrid:

The Corolla Hybrid contains every one of the provisions that a half breed vehicle involves. Being matched with the dazzling plan, it offers an EPA-assessed 52 joined mpg which is likewise the higher ever for the model.

• 2021 Camry Hybrid:

The amazing cross breed vehicle is here to dazzle all with its enthralling style. It dominates in its presentation and is combined with a unique power motor that guarantees both premium mileage and force streamlining productivity.

• 2021 Avalon Hybrid:

The positive and unmatched plan is a hitting mixture drivetrain amassed with an abundance of innovation. The innovation is headed to offer you the best rides and execution.

• 2021 Highlander Hybrid:

The ideal half and half made for present day families, and the Highlander Hybrid guarantees the most extreme productivity that you need with space. With offering an extensive seating of up to eight, it has an expected EPA-assessed mpg of up to 36 joined alongside 243 net strength.

• 2021 RAV4 Hybrid:

The half and half model stands apart from the group with its contribution of a cross breed selective SXE grade alongside an EPA-assessed 40 consolidated mpg.

Half and half Fueling:

The half and halves offer a proficient option in contrast to the vehicles that are gas-controlled; nonetheless, they need fuel. Here are the most well-known elective fuel vehicles.

• 2021 Prius:

With an EPA-assessed consolidated 49 mpg, Prius is combined with amazing payload space. It urges the riders to extend their points of view.

• 2021 Venza:

Regardless of investigating another objective in the city or going ahead for an end of the week escape, the 2021 Venza is the ideal mixture powertrain to search for. It includes an EPA-assessed 39 joined mpg while helping you to investigate the additional miles. With a standard AWD capacity, the driver-centered tech, alongside a refined style, is a class unequaled.

The module mixtures, for example, RAV4 Prime and Prius Prime work a great deal unique when contrasted with an ordinary electric or crossover vehicle. The noteworthy field economy of a cross breed guarantees an additional EV accusing capacity matched of greatest productivity.

• 2021 Prius Prime:

The select model is controlled to run in either cross breed driving modes or EV. An EPS-assessed 25 miles in both EV modes includes an all-out traveling scope of 640 miles. Subsequently, relax on the off chance that you can’t module; the model accompanies an EPA-assessed consolidated 54 miles.

• 2021 RAV4 Prime:

Hoping to get a vehicle for your travels and city trips? RAV4 Prime is the ideal alternative to settle on. With offering EPA-assessed 42 miles, the energetic SUV also offers an exceptional EPA-assessed 94 MPGe. With the capacity to pick between half breed modes and EV, RAV4 is here to take you to places obscure.

Why is it Important to get a Brake Service?

Brakes are one of the essential things in your car that requires regular maintenance. It must not be overlooked because the primary function of the brake system is to keep you safe, but there have been plenty of cases where the brakes have been overlooked, and the driver had to pay for his carelessness later.

Why are brakes so important to maintain?

Since it is one of the most important components in the car responsible for keeping you safe, an unexpected failure can cause extreme problems. The maintenance for your brakes is not just for your own safety but for the passengers you drive with and the people on the roads. If the brake pads are neglected, the entire brake system might collapse. Hence it is important to get maintenance check-ups done for the brake system regularly.

How to check the condition of your brake system?

Most of the cars have certain indicators that help you understand the condition of the brakes. But certain obvious signs cannot be overlooked. You might notice squealing noises or your car pulling to one side whenever you try to push the pedals. All these could be a significant sign that the brake system is feeling and needs immediate attention.

It’s always a good idea to perform a visual inspection so that parts like the disc brake, rotors, the brake pads can be inspected. If there are issues with any of the parts, then it’s time to get them serviced. Certain parts like the brake pads or the rotors might need replacement.

Regular service and maintenance –

You can prevent damage to the brake system by regularly checking on them. Getting them fixed is a lot better than getting any unwanted surprises later.

You can also make specific changes to the way you drive to make things even better.

1. Drive gently
2. Gently push the brake pedals
3. Do not go harsh with the brake pedals
4. Go for regular maintenance check-ups

Here are a few things to keep in mind –

• Most of the cars that face constant brake system troubles use them for heavy work. People who are known to use a heavy foot on the brake can potentially damage the break unknowingly and can decrease fuel efficiency as well. This results in the brake pads and rotors getting damaged quickly with the repeated use of the brakes will stop.
• Look out for the initial signs that indicate and there are problems with the brake system. If you notice high sounds whenever you make the car stop, then you must not ignore them.
• Many businesses require vehicles to carry heavy items from one place to the other. If your vehicle is carrying heavy loads, you should get the brake systems checked more than often.