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Mechanic Oil Change vs. DIY Oil Change: Which is Better?

Mechanic Oil Change vs. DIY Oil Change: Which is Better?

Oil changes are one of the simplest and easiest parts of maintaining your vehicle, especially when you bring your Toyota to a trusted service center in the Burleson, Alvarado, and Cleburne area. That said, some people like tinkering and working on their own vehicles when possible, as it can save money. DIY oil changes are one of the top services people like to perform at home, so it raises the question: Should I do my own oil change?  

While we can’t answer that question for you, since you’d have to decide the value of doing your own car maintenance, we can go over what to expect when performing a DIY oil change or choosing the dealership oil change route. Read on to learn the ins and outs of a DIY oil change and decide if it’s better to tackle it on your own or to bring your vehicle to your local Toyota service center. 

DIY Oil Change 

DIY Oil Change

In order to perform a DIY oil change, you’re going to need to get some specific tools and get familiar with your vehicle. The tools you’ll likely need include: 

  • Replacement Oil (check your manual to see which oil you should use) 
  • A lift or a jack (it cannot be a car jack, otherwise known as a scissor jack) 
  • An oil drip pan 
  • An oil filter 
  • A plastic clip remover 
  • A flashlight or a source of light 
  • Adjustable wrenches and sockets 
  • Gloves 
  • Brake cleaner 
  • A creeper (a flatbed rolling trolley to lie on to get under the car) 

Once all of this is squared away, make sure you have a flat area to work, raise your vehicle, and you can start on your DIY oil change. 

Once the vehicle is raised, have all of your tools within reach. You’ll first remove any trays under the vehicle and check for leaks. Unplug the drain for the oil to release, but make sure you have your drip pan underneath before you do so. If any leaks are found during this process, stop immediately and bring your vehicle to a service center.  

Once the oil stops draining, take out the oil filter and allow that to drain. Put the new oil filter in and seal it with the required gasket (assuming it’s in good condition). After that, replace the drain plug and fill up your vehicle with the new (recommended) oil and let the car run for 10 minutes so it can settle and spread throughout the system. Once all that’s done, clean up and you’re good to go! 

Dealership Oil Change 

Dealership Oil Change

If all of that sounds like a lot of time and money spent on new tools and toys, a dealership oil change is as easy as scheduling service, bringing your vehicle in, and waiting for the job to be done by the technician. If you have ToyotaCare on your newer vehicle, oil changes are covered under the maintenance plan. If you don’t have ToyotaCare, don’t worry. We have plenty of service specials, including oil changes, to help you keep more money in your wallet while maintaining your Toyota. 

Schedule Toyota Maintenance in Burleson Today 

Have you ignored your Toyota’s oil change for a bit too long? Want to make sure that your vehicle keeps running for years? Bring your vehicle to Family Toyota of Burleson, and we’ll make sure your Toyota runs smoothly for many more trips. Contact us today to schedule service or to have your Toyota inspected. 

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2026 Toyota RAV4

What’s New in the 2026 Toyota RAV4?

The RAV4 is a staple of the Toyota lineup—not only is it the best-selling SUV that we offer, but it’s the best-selling SUV in America. Looking at the numbers, it’s safe to say that’s not changing any time soon. So, how do you make the best SUV even better? For the 2026 model year, Toyota has completely redesigned the RAV4, adding in a ton of exciting features, boosting performance, and giving it a rugged new look. If you’re thinking about shopping for a new RAV4 for sale near Fort Worth, read on while we answer all of your burning questions. Is the New RAV4 Hybrid Only? One of the most significant changes to the RAV4 lineup this year is that the 2026 model will only be available as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid model. Yes, that’s right folks—the regular gas-powered RAV4 is no more, and it’ll continue on exclusively as an electrified SUV. The 2026 RAV4 Hybrid will be motivated by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and Toyota’s fifth-gen hybrid system, which benefits from improved components over the previous system, resulting in even better performance and fuel economy. The new hybrid system will crank out up to 236 combined horsepower when optioned with all-wheel drive, and for the first time ever, the RAV4 Hybrid will also be available with front-wheel drive. Meanwhile, the 2026 RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid sees big-time improvements, too. The PHEV system now puts out up to 320 net horsepower, making it one of the most powerful RAV4 models ever produced. It also has an estimated electric range of up to 50 miles, and some trims will be able to charge from 10 to 80% in just half an hour. Will the 2026 RAV4 Have New Trims? Many grades will be returning from the previous generation, including the LE, SE, XLE, XSE, and Limited grades. The Woodland grade also returns for 2026, but with some key updates. It now sports the “Rugged” design (more on that in a moment), and it also receives some key features that improve its off-road potential, including standard all-terrain tires, increased ride height, slightly more front-end clearance, raised roof rails with crossbars, and LED front lighting. For the first time, the RAV4 Woodland will also be available as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. For the new generation, there’s also a brand-new trim being introduced into the fold: the 2026 RAV4 GR SPORT. This version was developed in tandem with Toyota’s racing division, and it features GR-Tuned suspension and steering, summer tires, and a stiffer body for improved handling. The GR SPORT will only be available with the mighty PHEV powertrain. What Are the 2026 RAV4 Exterior Updates? A moment ago, we mentioned with RAV4 Woodland’s “Rugged” design. Point of fact, the new RAV4 will come in a choice of three available designs: Rugged, Sport, and Core. Each design has unique fascia and different body molding components, giving the 2026 RAV4 a few distinct personalities for shoppers near Alvarado to choose from. Regardless of which design you choose, all of them benefit from its rugged new exterior design—standout features include the hammerhead front end, boxier wheel wells, and angular bodylines that give the next-gen RAV4 a character all its own. Available 2026 RAV4 colors include the new Urban Rock, Storm Cloud, Meteor Shower, and Everest paint colors, as well as returning classics like Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, Blueprint, and Ice Cap. What Are the 2026 RAV4 Interior Updates? Inside, the team behind the new RAV4 designed it to be functional above all else, with user-friendly tech and comfort features that provide an intuitive experience. The entire lineup now features a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, as well as a choice between a redesigned 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch center touch screen display. Interior dimensions for the 2026 RAV4 have yet to be released, but we expect them to be roughly similar to the outgoing model, if not slightly larger. The design team sought to make the rear cargo area even more usable and ergonomic, meaning the new RAV4 may have even greater cargo capacity for the next generation. Does the 2026 RAV4 Have New Tech Features? Aside from the updated infotainment system, the RAV4 gets an all-new software platform called Arene, which enables massive upgrades to the Toyota Audio Multimedia system. The system will receive some major tweaks to enhance operating speeds, voice commands, navigation, and more. The 2026 RAV4 will also be the first Toyota to have Toyota Safety Sense™ 4.0. The advanced driver assistance system will also be operated by Arene, and it’ll feature even better object detection. More specific details on the features included will be announced closer to its release date. What is the Release Date of the 2026 Toyota RAV4? Currently, the new RAV4 is slated to arrive at our Toyota dealership near Fort Worth later this year. In the coming months, we expect to hear more about a specific release date, as well as 2026 RAV4 pricing details. Find the 2026 Toyota RAV4 for Sale in Burleson, TX Soon Since its original unveiling, the RAV4 has been a staple of our lineup, and considering the fact that it hasn’t let us down yet, we’re supremely confident that the upcoming model may be the best SUV of 2026. If you want to stay in the loop about 2026 RAV4 pricing, release dates, and more, contact us online and we’ll give you updates as they come. And if you just can’t wait to get your hands on a new RAV4 for sale near Mansfield, TX, call us at 817-405-3122 or check out our online inventory.

Exploring the Toyota Truck Lineup

Exploring the Toyota Truck Lineup

Many shoppers think of Toyota primarily as a maker of dependable, efficient, and city-friendly vehicles, but there’s another side to the famed automaker that gets talked about a little less often. They also have an impressive fleet of body-on-frame pickups and SUVs, all of which are perfect for towing, hauling, off-roading, and overlanding adventures. If you’re in the market for a rugged vehicle to handle all of your truckiest tasks, here’s a rundown of everything our Toyota dealership near Cleburne, TX has to offer. more Mid-Size Pickup Truck: Toyota Tacoma Starting price: $31,590 Max horsepower: 326 hp Max torque: 465 lb.-ft. Max towing capacity: 6,500 lbs. The Tacoma is an icon in the off-roading world thanks to its impressive engine options and its enormous selection of available features. It’s also popular because its compact and maneuverable body allows it to get places that larger vehicles can’t, making it an extremely versatile trail rescue vehicle. It has the most available trims of any truck on this list, a choice between automatic and manual transmission, two bed lengths, and two drivetrain options, so it’s safe to say it’s quite easy to customize for whatever job you need it for—and that’s before you even factor in the thousands of available aftermarket parts and accessories available for the Tacoma. Thanks to its recent update for the 2024 model year, it’s also impressively tech-forward, with an available 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system and portable JBL speaker mounted in the passenger dash. Full-Size Pickup Truck: Toyota Tundra Starting price: $41,260 Max horsepower: 437 hp Max torque: 583 lb.-ft. Max towing capacity: 12,000 lbs. As the brand’s dedicated full-size pickup, the Tundra has the distinction of having the highest towing capacity of the entire Toyota lineup, and by quite a wide margin at that, which opens up the door for all kinds of fun pulling travel trailers, boats, and more. Other features like the available e-locking rear differential and load-leveling rear air suspension push performance even further. The Tundra also has the most available configurations, with two cabs and three bed lengths to choose from, including the ultra-spacious CrewMax cab and the massive 8.1-foot bed, giving you up to five unique body styles to choose from, depending on your needs. Of course, it’s not all just about capability. The interior is well-provisioned across all trim levels, with available features like the 14-inch center touch screen, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and premium upholstery. Off-Road SUV: Toyota 4Runner Starting price: $41,270 Max horsepower: 326 hp Max torque: 465 lb.-ft. Max towing capacity: 6,000 lbs. After over a decade, the 4Runner got massive overhaul for its newest generation, complete with two shiny new powertrain options (which it shares with the Tacoma) along with a ton of other updated features, which means the best off-road SUV just got even better. Shoppers can choose between two-wheel drive with automatic limited-slip differential, part-time four-wheel drive with two-speed transfer case, or full-time four-wheel drive with a locking limited-slip diff, but that’s just the beginning. Other available features include a stabilizer disconnect system, Multi-Terrain Select, and multiple drive modes to adjust dynamics on the fly. Like the previous generation, the 4Runner is available in either a five-seater or seven-seater interior layout, but the new gen brings heaps of newly available tech, including an updated infotainment system, Multi-Terrain Monitor, and even an onboard air compressor. Mid-Size SUV: Toyota Land Cruiser Starting price: $57,200 Max horsepower: 326 hp Max torque: 465 lb.-ft. Max towing capacity: 6,000 lbs. In many ways, the Land Cruiser is similar to the 4Runner: It has the same max power stats and towing capacity, as well as similar capability features in general. However, there’s plenty that sets this high-class off-roader apart, too. The Land Cruiser comes standard with the full-time 4WD system with Torsen limited-slip differential as its only drivetrain option, making it a strong contender right out of the gate. It also has a relatively simplified selection of trims, with only two to choose from, which means picking the right model for your needs can be far easier. Make no mistake though: both grades offer an impressive list of standard amenities. Perhaps the biggest difference is that the Land Cruiser has a more upscale interior feel, with distinctive styling and high-grade materials that call to mind a borderline luxury SUV. Full-Size SUV: Toyota Sequoia Starting price: $64,025 Max horsepower: 437 hp Max torque: 583 lb.-ft. Max towing capacity: 9,500 lbs. Much like the sturdy, legendary trees it’s named for, the Sequoia is large and in charge, with a seating capacity that allows up to eight people to sit comfortably and ample legroom in all three rows. It also has nearly 90 cubic feet of max cargo volume when the rear seats are folded, making it the perfect truck-style SUV for big family road trips. Because it shares a powertrain with the almighty Tundra, it also has plenty of power to back it up, with the second highest towing capacity in the Toyota lineup and available part-time 4WD. Additional available features include upgraded suspension, Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and underbody protection for when things get extra hairy. Unsurprisingly, it also comes well-equipped on the inside, with a standard Smart Key System, power moonroof, three-zone climate control, and heated seats, as well as available features like the 14-inch center infotainment screen. Shop Toyota Trucks for Sale near Alvarado, TX At Family Toyota of Burleson, we have one of the best selections of new Toyota vehicles in the greater Fort Worth area, and when you shop our new car specials, you can save money on your next truck with low APR financing and Toyota lease deals aplenty. Ready to schedule a test drive? Visit out Toyota dealership at 801 S. Burleson Boulevard in Burleson, TX. You can also contact us online or call us at 817-405-3122 to set an appointment.

toyota ev lineup

Exploring the Toyota Hybrid Vehicle Lineup

Toyota has a lot of claims to fame. One of the main things it’s known for is leading the charge on hybrid vehicle technology. With 17 different electrified hybrid models, there’s a Toyota hybrid out there for just about everybody. If you live near Fort Worth and you’re thinking about going green with your next vehicle, read on to check out the entire roster and discover which one suits your needs. more Toyota Corolla Hybrid City/highway MPG: up to 53/46 One of the most popular cars in the Toyota lineup, the Corolla Hybrid offers incredible savings at the pump, and with a starting price of under $25k, it’s an ideal starter car for money-conscious shoppers, first-time drivers, and more. Toyota Camry City/highway MPG: up to 52/49 For the 2025 model year, the Camry entered its 9 th generation, bringing about a number of tech and design updates. However, the biggest update was its engine—the Camry is now exclusively a hybrid model, with a powertrain that cranks out up to 232 horsepower. Toyota Prius City/highway MPG: up to 57/56 The one that started it all. The Prius is the original hybrid car, and to this day, it’s what many people picture when they think of an eco-friendly vehicle. It’s still one of the highest MPG cars on the market, and its hatchback body style and flat-folding seats make it surprisingly versatile for storing cargo. Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid Combined MPG/MPGe: up to 52/127 How do you make the quintessential hybrid car even better? Slap in a bigger battery that allows up to 44 miles of all-electric driving, of course. The PHEV powertrain in the Prius Plug-in Hybrid also adds a little extra kick, and the interior has all the features that make the original Prius a hit, including the available 12.3-inch center touch screen display. Toyota Crown City/highway MPG: up to 42/41 The Crown is Toyota’s answer to the luxury car craze, with an opulent flair and a cabin packed full of the latest tech. It also has some serious performance chops, including standard all-wheel drive and an available Hybrid MAX powertrain that cranks out up to 340 horsepower. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid City/highway MPG: up to 41/38 It’s the most popular SUV in America, and it’s easy to see why. With its smooth handling, Electronic On-Demand AWD, and multiple drive modes, it handles great in both the city and the backcountry, making the RAV4 Hybrid the perfect jack of all trades for shoppers with a passion for adventure. Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid Combined MPG/MPGe: up to 38/94 Formerly known as the RAV4 Prime, the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid allows up to 42 miles of battery-powered motoring, which means you can potentially go weeks without filling up the tank if you keep it charged. It also shares the RAV4 Hybrid’s knack for light off-roading, which makes it one of the best road trip SUVs we offer. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid City/highway MPG: up to 46/39 What happens when you take the ever-popular Corolla and expand its dimensions? You get an incredibly versatile SUV with 24 cubic feet of cargo space in the back and an incredibly efficient powertrain. In fact, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient Toyota SUV that isn’t a plug-in hybrid. Toyota Crown Signia City/highway MPG: up to 39/37 Like the Crown, the Crown Signia elevates the driving experience into luxury territory with forward-thinking design, high-end upholstery, and next-gen tech. Standard features include wireless device charging, heated and ventilated seats, and dual 12.3-inch infotainment displays. Toyota Highlander Hybrid City/highway MPG: up to 35/35 With three rows of seating and heaps of standard and available amenities, the Highlander Hybrid is the perfect middle ground for shoppers who need seating for seven but don’t want a big, unwieldy SUV. Like many Toyota hybrids, it also has standard all-wheel drive, which makes it extra safe and extra capable. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid City/highway MPG: up to 37/34 If the Highlander Hybrid isn’t big enough, the Grand Highlander Hybrid adds extra storage and room in the third row, as well as a healthy dose of extra comfort and convenience features, like the standard 12.3-inch multimedia display. Like the Crown, it also has an available Hybrid MAX powertrain, which puts out 362 combined horsepower and comes with full-time AWD. Toyota Sienna City/highway MPG: up to 36/36 One of the most awarded minivans ever, the Sienna maximizes passenger and cargo space with ample legroom in all three rows and up to 101 cubic feet of cargo volume. It’s also absolutely packed with features, from the seven standard USB ports to the available vacuum and FridgeBox™. Toyota Sequoia City/highway MPG: up to 21/24 The Sequoia is one of the biggest and baddest of the Toyota SUVs, with a powerful twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain that allows it to rip through mud and sand with ease. It also has a towing capacity of 9,500 pounds and up to 86.9 cubic feet of storage capacity, making it perfect for hauling the family camper for your next big road trip. Toyota Land Cruiser City/highway MPG: up to 22/25 Some say you have to choose between comfort and capability, and to them, we’d point to the Land Cruiser, which provides both in equal measure. The thoughtfully designed interior is chock full of amenities and features, like standard full-time 4WD and available Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), allowing it to easily chew through the trail. Toyota 4Runner i-FORCE MAX City/highway MPG: up to 23/24 One of the most renowned off-road vehicles of all time, the 4Runner got a full overhaul for the 2025 model year, complete with a shiny new available hybrid powertrain that churns out up to 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. You can customize it with 2WD, part-time 4WD, or full-time 4WD, as well as heaps of additional trail-ready upgrades. To top it off, it can be optioned with either two or three rows. Toyota Tacoma i-FORCE MAX City/highway MPG: up to 23/24 The king of midsize trucks, the Tacoma is available in a variety of trims, from comfortable city cruisers like the Limited, to off-road dynamos like the Trailhunter and TRD Pro, offering shoppers an incredible number of options to build their rig to their exact needs. Throw in features like the available 14-inch infotainment screen and portable JBL speaker, and you have a pretty sweet package. Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX City/highway MPG: up to 20/24 By far the most powerful Toyota vehicle, the Tundra’s i-FORCE MAX powertrain puts out 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to tow up to 12,000 pounds. Like the Tacoma, it has a variety of grades for shoppers to choose from, elevating its capabilities even further. The spacious CrewMax cab also boasts ample seating and some truly next-level comfort features, especially in the upper-level trims. Explore Toyota Hybrid Vehicles near Cleburne, TX At Family Toyota of Burleson, we have a massive selection of electrified Toyota vehicles. Whether you’re looking for an economical family SUV, a stellar overlanding rig, or a mighty pickup truck, we have you covered with multiple trims, colors, and features to choose from. Ready to start shopping or take a test drive? Call us today at 817-405-3122 or contact us online any time and we’ll reach out as soon as possible.